Sydney, Australia

Australia's largest city, Sydney, is also the capital of New South Wales, the most traveled-to state in the nation. Sydney, Australia's southeast coast city is home to more than a hundred beaches and is situated along the South Pacific Ocean.

Sydney, which was once a penal colony where British convicts were forced to fend for themselves, developed over the 19th century to become a bustling port city. As a result, the city is a foodie's paradise, with restaurants serving practically every type of cuisine from around the world.

The iconic Sydney Opera House, created by Danish architect Jorn Utzon whose design won an international competition, is one of the city's most identifiable landmarks. Another noteworthy landmark that contributes to the breathtaking view of the city is the Sydney Harbor Bridge, sometimes known as ‘the coathanger’ due to its design.

Sydney's temperate and assortment of parks and beaches make it the perfect place for outdoor activities. From the beaches to the Central Business District, hotels are spread out among the city's neighborhoods, providing guests with a variety of lodging options.

Best Things to Do

• Enjoy a trip to Sydney Opera House
• Explore Bondi Beach & Palm Beach
• Visit Queen Victoria Building and The Strand Arcade
• Spend a day at King Street Wharf
• Walk, cycle or climb Sydney Harbor Bridge
• Ride the ferry to historic Cockatoo Island or Manly Beach
• Visit the Blue Mountains
• Explore Fish Market, Bondi Farmers Market and the Flower Market

Best Time to Visit

The seasons in Australia are the opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere because Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere. The months of October and November (late spring) or March and April (fall), when temperatures are pleasant and humidity levels are low, are the greatest times to travel to Sydney.

The summer months of December through February are the busiest for tourists and have the warmest temperatures. Between Christmas and the end of January, which is customarily when Australians take their summer vacations, the crowds are at their busiest. Although rates are higher during this time of year, the weather is ideal for the beach. Additionally, the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race begins in Sydney Harbor on Boxing Day, and the annual month-long Sydney Festival takes place in January.

May through August, the off-peak season, is cooler and more affordable. Sydney is still a wonderful place to be, and spectacular events like Vivid Sydney usually happen in May. The Bondi Festival takes place in June and July, and the Sydney International Film Festival takes place in August.