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.
New South Wales features sparkling coastal towns, vibrant cities, rolling vineyards, friendly suburbs, charming country towns, and much more. Feel the glamour of Sydney. World-renowned, this city is bursting with many fascinating museums, art galleries, restaurants, and attractions. Nearby, marvel at the blue haze of the Blue Mountains or pop by the Hunter Valley and go on a culinary journey. It's time to uncover the local gems of this spectacular part of Australia.
Explore Sydney's iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, and the breathtaking Blue Mountains. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, exquisite dining, and charming coastal towns.
Venture to the Hunter Valley for world-class wine and gourmet food, or thrill-seek along NSW’s pristine beaches and national parks. Experience the rich cultural heritage with Aboriginal sites, arts and crafts markets, and vibrant festivals.
Cities & towns
Sydney
When you think of Australia, Sydney is probably one of the first places to come to your mind, and rightly so! The largest city in Australia is world-renowned and grand and is considerably different from Melbourne. Multicultural, historical, and filled with character, you are sure to find an abundance of things to see and do here.
The Sydney Opera House is a stunning display of architecture, and The Sydney Harbour Bridge is marvellous to see lit up in a blanket of light. Go museum hopping or take a cruise on the Sydney Harbour and soak up the warm Australian sunshine.
If you want a bird's eye view of the city, visit the Sydney Tower Eye or conquer the iconic Bridge Climb!Take the local ferry from Circular Quay to Manly or Bondi, have lunch and beach. On the way back, watch the sunset over the city.
For a spectacular fireworks show, go to Darling Harbour (on most Saturday nights). You will also find a range of restaurants here.Explore either on foot or by bike and get acquainted with each neighbourhood and surrounding suburbs. Surry Hills, Newtown, Darlinghurst, Bondi, and Chippendale to name a few!
Go shopping at the boutique stores, or savour the latest local flavours at world-class restaurants and cafés. End your day with a cocktail at a lively bar.
Newcastle
The second-largest city of New South Wales, Newcastle is a harbour city and has no shortage of coastline to explore. With eight golden beaches, the lucky locals live on the coast and enjoy an Australian beach lifestyle.
Spend your days wandering along the long stretches of coastal tracks and marvel at natural ocean pools and local surfers catching waves. Be sure to visit the surf beach, Merewether - a world-famous surfing destination or conquer the three-hour trek from Nobby's Beach to Merewether.
Located approximately two hours north of Sydney, this cosmopolitan city is rich in historical value, charm, and things to do. Discover a variety of lively bars, restaurants, and local cafes, alongside the harbour. Or a bohemian strip known as Cooks Hills for a mix of boutiques stores and cafes that served a delicious Aussie brunch.
Port Macquarie
Come and discover a magical coastal playground, Port Macquarie. This Aussie gem is located on the mid-north coast of NSW, with a large assortment of things to do and see!
The region boasts 17 spectacular beaches, a lush hinterland, and friendly locals. Say G’day to some furry koalas at the Koala Hospital, or walk along the break wall and try to spot dolphins.
Experience the local lifestyle in Port Macquarie
Visit local art galleries, potteries, tea houses, antique stores, and charismatic cafés. Pop into Ricardoes Tomatoes and Strawberry Picking Farm or visit Old Bottlebutt in Burrawan State Forest and walk along a nature trail.
Grab a cold beer at The Beach House or purchase some fresh locally grown produce at the farmer’s markets. Savour local flavours at the many restaurants and wineries. Or get better acquainted with the area on the nine-kilometre Coastal Walk.
Highlights in NSW
Are you ready to conquer the highlights of New South Wales? Whether you would like to learn how to surf at one of Australia’s most iconic surf beaches, Bondi Beach, or hike in nature and spot Australian wildlife in the Snowy Mountains. There are plenty of exciting places to tick off your bucket list in this Australian state.
National Parks
With 870 national parks and reserves, New South Wales has no shortage of nature to discover. Wollemi National Park is the largest with an area of, 5017 square kilometres and Berowra Valley National Park is one of the smallest with an area of 38.84 square kilometres.
The walks and hikes found in New South Wales are some of the best in the country
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, located in Sydney's north, has the perfect mix of history and natural beauty. The Blue Mountains National Park features one of the world's oldest cave systems of limestone, over 340 million years old. Conquer the summit of Mount Kosciuszko National Park in the Snowy Mountains. Or connect with the oldest living culture in the world and visit the UNESCO-listed Mungo National Park.
While you are visiting the national parks of NSW, discover the rare and unique, flora and fauna. From koalas, swamp wallabies, grey kangaroos and snakes to honeysuckle banksia, wattle and more. Mother nature is here and ready for you to explore.
Discover more
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.
Contact us
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.