A City That Shines Between Harbour and Coast

Sydney

With its glittering harbour, world-famous beaches and vibrant neighbourhoods, Sydney is a must-visit destination in Australia.

Australia’s largest city is packed with cultural icons, stylish dining, and stunning coastal escapes—all within easy reach. With its laid-back outdoor lifestyle and cosmopolitan energy, this city is bursting with character, charm and sunshine. 

Are you ready to discover Sydney through the eyes of the locals with TravelEssence?

Visit Luna Park and admire the Sydney Harbour Bridge
© Brad Mills, Unsplash
Cool off in Sydney!
© Clarinta subrata

Sample trips

Discover the treasures of the south 5 week journey with the perfect mix of culture, nature and history

Australia

Sydney to Adelaide Per person

View this trip

Uncover the local treasures of the East Coast of Australia 3 weeks in Tropical North Queensland with your partner

Australia

Sydney to Cairns Per person

View this trip

Experience the diversity of Australia 5 week summer holiday

Australia

33 days - £5,999 Per person

View this trip

Discover Australia's most adventurous places 4 week active family journey

Australia

27 days - £5,799 Per person

View this trip

Things to see and do in Sydney

Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge

No visit is complete without taking in the splendour of Sydney Harbour, home to two of the country’s most recognisable landmarks—the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. 

Stroll along the waterfront, take a guided tour inside the Opera House, or feel the thrill of climbing the bridge for a breathtaking view from 440 feet above sea level.

Local tip: Picture-perfect, the Sydney Opera House is best viewed from the Manly ferry, Mrs Macquarie’s Chair in the Royal Botanic Gardens (free entry), or from the other side of the Harbour Bridge.

Circular Quay and The Rocks

Circular Quay is the hub of the city’s waterfront activity, where ferries come and go beneath the sails of the Opera House. Just around the corner lies The Rocks, one of Sydney’s oldest districts. Wander the cobblestone laneways, explore weekend markets, and soak up local history in charming pubs and galleries

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

For stunning ocean views, sandy beaches and seaside cafés, the Bondi to Coogee walk is a must. This 3.7-mile coastal path winds past cliffs, coves and saltwater pools, showcasing Sydney’s iconic beach culture along the way.

Royal Botanic Garden

Set beside the harbour, the Royal Botanic Garden offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. Spanning 74 acres, it’s perfect for a relaxing stroll among exotic plants, native flora, and sweeping harbour views.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is a heritage-listed and is over 1149 metres long
© Tourism Australia
Absorb the local lifestyle at Bondi Beach
© Tourism Australia
Subscribe to our monthly newsletter

Indicate your preference and receive the latest travel tips

Explore beyond the city

Manly Beach

Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay, Manly Beach offers a more relaxed beachside experience. Surf, swim or simply stroll along the promenade and enjoy an ice cream. The ferry ride itself is a scenic highlight, offering postcard-perfect views of the harbour.

Watch the locals catch a wave at Manly Beach
Blue mountains kangaroo | Australia holiday
Meet the locals at the Blue Mountains

A taste of Sydney

Dine by the Harbour

Sydney’s dining scene is as diverse as its people. Enjoy fresh seafood with a view at harbourside restaurants, sip cocktails at rooftop bars, or sample international flavours in tucked-away eateries.

Local markets & cafés

Browse weekend markets in The Rocks, discover fresh produce at Carriageworks Farmers Market, or join locals in the city’s café scene with artisan coffee and brunch culture on full display.

Culinary neighbourhoods

From fine dining in Surry Hills to multicultural eats in Newtown and trendy wine bars in Paddington, Sydney’s neighbourhoods are packed with flavour and flair. Don’t miss the fusion of Pacific, Asian and European influences that define the city’s food culture.

Sydney boutique hotel industrial bar
Sydney has approximately 20,000 restaurants to choose from
Dine at the Sydney Opera House
© Eriksson Luo, Unsplash

Where to stay?

Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our large collection of hand-selected accommodations located in Brisbane and beyond. 

Whether you prefer a luxury hotel in the heart of the CBD, or an apartment overlooking the Sydney Harbour, we have found the perfect place for you. Your travel specialist will match you up with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. 

Enjoy a holiday where your accommodation is an experience in itself.

Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.