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Indulge in a day of shopping and fine dining, take in a musical or an art exhibition or explore a harbour walk and glistening beaches.

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Wondering where to stay in Sydney? Then explore the accommodation options on the website. You can make reservations as well. Getting around is easy on public transport . Ferries and harbour cruises are a memorable way to experience the beauty of one of the world’s great natural harbours.

Hop on a ferry at Circular Quay for Taronga Zoo , Manly or Watsons Bay . You can also take a ferry to intriguing Sydney Harbour islands and Parramatta for delicious food and colonial heritage. Or jump aboard a Tribal Warrior cruise and explore Aboriginal culture, the world’s oldest living culture.

Aboriginal people have a long connection with Sydney, dating back at least 50,000 years before the First Fleet arrived in 1788. There are fun and informative Aboriginal-guided tours , including in national parks where you can see ancient indigenous ochre hand-paintings and rock engravings.

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New South Wales

• 1.1 Sydney and surrounds
• 1.2 Further afield
• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Geography
• 4.3 Climate
• 4.5 Time zone
• 4.6 Tourist information
• 5.1 Quarantine
• 5.2 By plane
• 5.3 By road
• 5.4 By rail
• 6.1 Road signage and visitor radio
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.4.1 Long distance
• 6.6 By bike
• 7.1 Landmarks
• 7.2 Natural scenery
• 7.3.1 In captivity
• 7.3.2 In the wild
• 10.1 Pubs, clubs and bars
• 11.1 Hotels
• 11.2 Motels
• 11.4 Serviced apartments
• 12.1 Dangerous fauna
• 12.2 Natural disasters
• 12.3 Exposure

New South Wales (NSW) is Australia's first and most populous state. Its capital, Sydney is the country's oldest, largest and most cosmopolitan city, centred on its spectacular harbour. The state's coastal areas offer endless sandy beaches next to sleepy coastal communities. The Great Dividing Range stretches the length of the state from north to south, including the world heritage listed Blue Mountains, much of its World Heritage listed Gondwana Rainforests, and the Southern Hemisphere's largest ski resorts in the Snowy Mountains. West of the range are the plains and the outback, gold mining, history and rural communities all the way to the red dust. Along the way you'll find Australia's premier wine regions of Mudgee and the Hunter Valley , the rainforests of the North Coast and New England , and hidden natural wonders to discover.

New South Wales is a diverse state with many different types of climate, scenery and communities. The first list of regions are all within three hours' drive or train trip from Sydney; the rest will take more time or planning.

Sydney and surrounds

Further afield

• -33.867778 151.21 1 Sydney - the state capital and the largest city in Australia
• -30.5 151.666667 2 Armidale - centre of the Northern Tablelands region, a city with easy road access to several World Heritage-listed national parks.
• -31.965 141.451111 3 Broken Hill - a poetically named 'Wild West' mining town, right in the Outback, with a small thriving arts scene
• -30.30228 153.118896 4 Coffs Harbour - a popular beachfront city for visitors and seachangers, with many accommodation options from the budget to resort.
• -32.248333 148.601111 5 Dubbo - located in the centre of the state, it's Australia's wildlife and animal capital
• -32.916667 151.75 6 Newcastle - the second largest city in NSW is a coastal city and industrial capital of the Hunter Valley region, around 150km north of Sydney.
• -31.090556 150.931667 7 Tamworth - Australia's home of country music.
• -35.119444 147.366667 8 Wagga Wagga - the largest inland city in New South Wales, on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River.
• -34.433056 150.883056 9 Wollongong - around 100km south of Sydney between the escarpment and the coast, natural beauty and heavy industry sit adjacent in the Illawarra region.

Other destinations

• -33.615 150.417778 1 Blue Mountains National Park – world heritage listed national park, and significant mountain to indigenous Australians
• -30.381667 152.751111 2 Dorrigo National Park – one of the largest Gondwana rainforests left standing today
• -33.820556 150.021444 3 Jenolan Caves – some of the world's most finest karst landscapes and the oldest known caves on Earth
• -35.059444 150.738056 4 Jervis Bay – home to some of the world's whitest beaches
• -35.998333 148.334444 5 Kosciuszko National Park – the tallest mountain on the Australian mainland
• -31.55 159.083333 6 Lord Howe Island – a world heritage-listed island some 550 km from the mainland and a popular getaway destination
• -33.731667 143.001111 7 Mungo National Park – home to the oldest modern human bodies outside Africa which belong to the world's oldest living civilization
• -33.813056 151.291667 8 Sydney Harbour National Park – a harbourside national park, home to a lot of WWII era military fortifications, beside one of the icons of Australia
• -28.389722 153.268611 9 Wollumbin National Park – the world's largest extinct volcano

The home of a large number of Aboriginal tribes for thousands of years, New South Wales was only settled by Europeans in 1788 - spreading outwards from Sydney. The name was given by Captain Cook 18 years earlier during his first voyage of discovery, after the country of Wales . It is unknown whether he intended to name it after South Wales , or whether this new land was the Wales of the South , but the cliffs he was passing to the south of Sydney bear a striking resemblance to the cliffs along the Welsh Cambrian Coast.

When the Colony of New South Wales was established, it practically included the eastern two-thirds of mainland Australia, Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania), New Zealand, and a few Subantarctic islands. Later the colonies of Van Diemen's Land and New Zealand were separated, and in the mid-1800s, the free-settler province (known at the time) of South Australia was established. Not long after, Queensland and Victoria were established, with what is now the Northern Territory divided between South Australia and Queensland. While there have been two more territories established (the ACT and JBT ), the state has largely stayed intact since the 1860s.

The first settlers were dependent of farming and fresh water, and the major settlements grew around Parramatta and Windsor , at the limit of navigation of the Parramatta and Hawkesbury Rivers, inland from Sydney. Inland settlement was at first impeded by the rugged Blue Mountains and the Great Dividing Range as a whole for a time and settlers did not cross the mountains until 1813. However, once crossed settlement spread west rapidly, with the first road across the mountains finished in 1815, leading to the first inland towns of Goulburn and Bathurst . Further regional and rural expansion occurred in the late 19th century as a result of the Gold Rush, although it did not have as much of an impact as in neighbouring Victoria .

From its inception until the time of federation in 1901, New South Wales was dependent largely on its agricultural resources; however, over the early 20th century this largely changed to a point where New South Wales led Australia in heavy industry. This was, and continues to be dominated by industries such as coal mining in the Hunter and Illawarra regions.

From the 1970s, industries such as steel and shipbuilding began to diminish, and although agriculture remains important its share of the state's income is smaller than at any other time in the state's history. NSW, and in particular Sydney, have developed significant service industries in finance, information technology and tourism.

New South Wales is the most populous state in Australia. Most of that population is concentrated in Sydney, which has 5.2 million of the state's 8.2 million inhabitants. The next largest cities are (in order) Newcastle (≈600k), the Central Coast (≈400k), and Wollongong (≈300k). After that the larger cities and towns in the state are merely moderately-sized regional centres of 40,000–80,000 people. Many of the cultural sights are concentrated in Sydney and nearby.

Though Australia is characterised to have nearly every single type of landscape possible, the state of NSW would pretty much fulfill that criteria in nearly every aspect, owing to the state's large area – so large, that's it's larger than every single US state but Alaska, all Canadian provinces but Ontario and Quebec, and all European countries except Russia and the Kingdom of Denmark (which includes the Faroes and Greenland).

Though New South Wales has the smallest coastline of any state, pristine beaches near idyllic towns mostly characterise the 2,000-kilometre (1,200 mi) coastline, deserts characterise the west and northwest, mountains characterise most of the central eastern areas, while lush green rainforests and bushland flourish the far eastern near-coastal regions. Even the mountainous regions alone are diverse – the Snowy Mountains in the southeast are covered in snow and are sometimes rather treeless, while trees, valleys, and impressive canyons and gorges fill the Blue Mountains, while rainforests dating from the times of Gondwana are scattered throughout the North Coast and New England regions.

Though many of NSW's cultural sights are in Sydney or its surrounds, this isn't true of historical or natural sights. Many of the state's most beautiful natural sights, obviously enough, lie well outside the Sydney metropolitan area. Australian history and identity is to some extent tied up with rural settlement and lifestyle, and thus you will find many of the outlying regions of New South Wales base their tourism industry around pioneer and rural history.

New South Wales' climate varies considerably depending on the area in the state.

In winter the Snowy Mountains can receive significant snowfalls, with an extensive ski fields operating between July and September. During cold snaps in mid-winter snow can fall down to 800 metres in inland New South Wales, giving a light snow cover to large areas of the state. The desert areas of inland New South Wales struggle to reach 15°C, and southern coastal areas including Sydney range between 9-17°C in July, the coldest month. However the north coast of New South Wales, towards Tweed Heads and Byron Bay , averages above 20°C even during mid-winter with decently warm waters. Winter generally isn't the time for beach swimming in most New South Wales, with the season generally being between October and March – maybe a little earlier up north, and maybe a little later down south.

In summer most head for coastal regions, with New South Wales having literally hundreds of clean patrolled beaches and coastal towns. The inland towns can be hot, with many averaging over 30°C in summer, often peaking above 40°C. After Christmas until the end of January it can be difficult to find any available accommodation near the coast at short notice.

The best time to visit New South Wales depends on your interest. Most activities, transport, restaurants and other facilities operate year-round. For the beach holiday summer December to February is perfect. It can be hot, but if you are the beach, that is the way you want it. The best months for reliable snowfalls are August to September, although you are always at the whim of Mother Nature on the ski fields. Spring and Autumn are good for walking, and for country driving holiday.

If you are exploring Sydney and the cities, avoiding the summer period will reduce the crowds and peak accommodation costs. If you are used to the dry heat, then heading inland in the summer period is also an off-peak experience, with few crowds and accommodation hassles.

The Bureau of Meteorology provides weather forecasts across the state.

Sydney, in particular, is ethnically diverse with many different cultural influences and language groups.

While most New South Welsh people don't use as much slang as many other states (notably Queensland), New South Welsh people use some particular regional words which are not used in other states. The word cossie or swimmers (short for swimming costume) refer to a bathing suit – don't call them "togs" as used in Queensland or "bathers" as used in Victoria. Swimsuit for women or Speedos for men are universally understood.

In common with most Australians, the people of New South Wales have a tradition of great sporting rivalry with neighbouring states. This is expressed each year, for example, in the State of Origin Series of Rugby League matches between NSW and Queensland.

Rugby League is the winter ball sport of choice in NSW and Queensland, as opposed to the rest of Australia which follows Australian Rules football. The word "football" or " footy " usually refers to Rugby League and not to soccer or Australian Rules Football. As you get down to the southern New South Wales border town of Albury , the Victorian Aussie Rules influence becomes stronger. If you go to see the Albury Football club play, they will be scoring goals and behinds rather than tries and conversions. Rugby Union is also followed by some. A-League Soccer is aligned with the northern hemisphere competitions, in the Australian summer.

New South Wales is 10 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC±0). Daylight savings is observed from the first Sunday of October to the first Sunday of April the following year.

• AEST - Australian Eastern Standard Time UTC+10
• AEDT - Australian Eastern Daylight Saving Time UTC+11
• ACST - Australian Central Standard Time UTC+9.5 (Used in Broken Hill and Silverton )
• ACDT - Australian Central Daylight Time UTC+10.5 (Used in Broken Hill and Silverton )
• LHST - Lord Howe Island Standard Time UTC+10.5
• LHDT - Lord Howe Island Daylight Saving Time UTC+11

The area around the city of Broken Hill and Silverton in the far west of New South Wales is on Australian Central Standard Time (the same as South Australia), UTC+9.5 or UTC+10.5 during daylight savings time.

Norfolk Island also has its own time zone different from the rest of the state. Unlike the rest of the state, Norfolk Island does not observe daylight saving time.

Lord Howe Island also has its own time zone different from the rest of the state. However, Lord Howe Island is the only place in the world to observe daylight savings by only half and hour, instead of one hour.

Tourist information

• Visit NSW website

As with travel in other parts of Australia, travelling distances with fruit, vegetables and plant material from fruit and vegetable plants is not allowed. Its always a good idea to consume any fresh fruit or vegetables in the area in which you buy it. You'll be subject to an on-the-spot fine of around $200, or could even be prosecuted if you're found to been acting wilfully in taking fresh fruit and vegetables into protected areas such as the Riverina , the north coast, and even to the outback areas of Broken Hill and Hay . A tougher restriction zone, the Greater Sunraysia Pest Free Area applies to some areas around the Victorian border near Mildura .

You'll see signs and bins for disposal along the roads heading towards protected areas and at airports. So don't stock up bananas up in Coffs Harbour if you are heading down to Narrandera . Griffith and Wagga Wagga . You'll risk widespread damage to crops from fruit-fly and other pests, and you could well be fined.

For more information on domestic quarantine, see the government website .

Buying fruits and vegetables in the areas immediately surrounding Sydney and bringing them into Sydney is fine, so feel free to stop and some of the farm gates in the Blue Mountains , and along the Hawkesbury without concern.

Most air travellers to New South Wales arrive at Sydney Airport , near the Sydney central business district, which is Australia's largest airport.

Seven other airports in New South Wales have interstate flights:

• Flights from Brisbane , the Gold Coast , Melbourne , Canberra and Norfolk Island operate to Newcastle Airport .
• Flights from Melbourne and Canberra operate to Albury Airport .
• Flights from Melbourne and Brisbane operate to Coffs Harbour Airport .
• Flights from Melbourne operate to Ballina Byron Airport .
• Flights from Brisbane operate to Port Macquarie Airport
• Flights from Brisbane operate to Tamworth Airport
• Flights from Adelaide operate to Broken Hill Airport .

Note that flights from some of these destinations do not operate every day.

International and domestic visitors to the Northern Rivers including Byron Bay should consider the Gold Coast Airport , which is only minutes from the New South Wales northern border, and has many domestic and some international flights. Similarly, interstate travellers visiting the southeast of New South Wales may choose to fly through Canberra Airport , to access the Snowy Mountains , Eurobodalla , Sapphire Coast or eastern Riverina areas.

Travellers arriving overland will usually pass through the (near) border towns of Broken Hill from South Australia , Albury-Wodonga or Eden from Victoria and Tweed Heads from Queensland . New South Wales is linked by sealed highways to the three surrounding states. The main routes used by motorists into New South Wales are as follows:

• via the M1 Pacific Motorway , entering at Tweed Heads/Coolangatta , at the south end of the Gold Coast
• via the A15 New England Highway , entering at Wallangarra/Jennings, approximately 250 km southwest of Brisbane
• via the A39 Newell Highway , entering at Goondiwindi.
• via the A32 Barrier Highway , entering at Cockburn, approximately 50km west of Broken Hill
• via the M31 Hume Freeway , entering at Albury
• via the A1 Princes Highway , entering about 50 km south of Eden .
• via the A20 Sturt Highway (often used by motorists coming directly from Adelaide ), entering just north of Mildura .
• via the M23 Federal Highway , the main way to enter from Canberra
• via the A25 Barton Highway , the northwesterly alternative
• via the A23 Monaro Highway , the highway to the Snowy Mountains

Sydney is one of the major hubs of rail services in Australia, and trains run from every mainland state capital city in Australia directly to Sydney. The interstate rail providers are as follows:

• NSW Trainlink Regional , run by the New South Wales Government, runs several interstate services. Trains run twice daily from Melbourne, two or three times daily from Canberra and once a day from Brisbane. These trains are much slower than flying, and slower than a coach, but are a relaxed way to see the Australian countryside.
• Journey Beyond run interstate services which are more of a tourist train than a passenger service, but still provide a chance to see the spectacular countryside. The world-famous Indian Pacific connects Perth with Sydney via Adelaide. Passengers from Darwin and Alice Springs can change services from The Ghan in Adelaide.

NSW Trainlink Regional trains stop at intermediate stations on their way to and from Sydney, where it may be possible to change to bus services if you are not travelling direct to Sydney, and its pricing is generally competitive with plane or bus travel. Journey Beyond costs more than flying in business class and does not stop permit passengers to begin or end their journeys at intermediate stations other than Adelaide, meaning that it should only be considered for the experience rather than as a practical means of transport.

• Sydney Harbour is one of the major stops for cruise ships during the summer season. Vessels from all around the world including Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean all offer cruises to New South Wales. descend on Sydney every year and dock at various ports within Sydney, including the International Passenger Terminal.
• Newcastle Harbour also receives some cruise ships, mainly from P&O Cruises to the Pacific.
• If you wish to sail your own boat, for detailed information about sailing into NSW coastal ports contact the New South Wales Maritime Authority . Ports with customs officers are also available at Eden on the Sapphire Coast and Yamba on the Northern Rivers.

60% of the state's population lives in Greater Sydney and much of the intercity transport infrastructure is dedicated to taking travellers to and from Sydney, and to a lesser extent, Newcastle.

Transport connections between other New South Wales towns are often much less convenient. There is usually a reasonably direct road route between any two New South Wales towns, but public transport links are likely to be abysmal or non-existent, unless the two towns are on the same route to Sydney. As in the rest of Australia, there is very much a culture of making your own way by car.

It is common for travellers to make their way up or down the coast from Sydney by bus. Buses traverse these coastal routes several times a day, and it is quite possible to stop off at a few of the coastal towns of your choosing.

Expect public transport within cities or towns to be basic or non-existent outside Sydney . Much of the public transport there is largely designed for school children. There are some exceptions. The northeast corner of New South Wales including Tweed Heads and Kingscliff is reasonably well serviced by an extension of the Gold Coast transport network. Newcastle has a decent bus, light rail and ferry network, while Wollongong and the Blue Mountains have passable bus and train networks. In other New South Wales cities expect taxis, and an irregular bus services at best.

Travellers who wish to tour the regions of NSW have little option other than to travel by car or take a tour when travelling beyond the main transport routes in and out of Sydney.

Road signage and visitor radio

There is standardised road signage for tourist attractions in NSW, that is a white text on a brown sign. All attractions signposted this way within the road reservation have to be approved have to meet a minimum standard of facilities for visitors, including tourist drives. Similarly tourist information centres signposted within the road reservation must be official centres. They are indicated by the italic i on a blue background, in contrast to shops, etc, that display the sign in their window.

Visitor radio is available in many towns as you drive through. There will be a signpost with the frequency near the entry to the town. If the radio is signposted in the road reservation it is an approved service, and must carry at least 50% of content unpaid, so there must be some information between the advertisements.

Information bays are often just outside of towns, where you can pull over and see the attractions of a region or a town before entering.

Most New South Wales cities are within a day's drive of each other, there are a number of airlines that connect cities in the state:

• Qantas has flights between Sydney and many cities and towns throughout the regions;
• Regional Express has flights between Sydney and cities in the North Coast, New England, Riverina, Central West, Far West and South Coast regions;
• Virgin Australia
• Airlink flies between Sydney, Bathurst and Dubbo, and has charter services available to a number of towns in the Central West and Far West of the state;
• Flight Dynamics flies between Sydney, Bathurst, Dubbo, Brisbane and Queensland and has charter services available to a number of towns in the Central West and Far West of the state

Flying within New South Wales is typically far more expensive than flying between capital cities, particularly those cities only serviced by a single airline. The routes serviced by Virgin Australia to Albury , Ballina and Port Macquarie , and Jetstar's service to Ballina are more competitive and offer comparable airfares to interstate fares.

To reach the Northern New South Wales towns, consider the Gold Coast airport as a cheaper alternative.

Close to Sydney, there are dual carriageways and motorways linking Sydney with the cities to the north, south and southwest – only the west is not connected via a motorway. The Hume Highway heading towards Albury and Melbourne and the Pacific Motorway/Highway towards Brisbane are high-speed dual carriageway for their entire length. Most roads to major centres are reasonable quality, with a single lane in each direction. It isn't uncommon when accessing smaller towns, or national parks to end up on gravel and dirt roads. See Driving in Australia for more information.

The state speed limit is 100 km/h outside of built-up areas unless otherwise signposted.

Roads are generally signposted to the next major town or city along the route. It pays to have at least a high level map of the state showing major towns along the route. If you are using a GPS, it pays to follow the signs through towns rather than following a short-cut suggested by the GPS. The GPS suggested shortcut along a minor or unpaved road won't save you any time.

Some popular NSW roadtrips:

Some road trips are about getting to where you are going, others are about the towns along the way, and others are just about the drive.

• The drive north from Sydney along the coast is all about the towns along the way. The road itself stays just far away from the coast to spoil the view, but each diversion to the coast is worthwhile.
• The drive down the south coast from Sydney to Batemans Bay and Eden is the classic coastal drive. The road stays by the coastline for much of length, with numerous towns and villages to stop in. Divert at Batemans Bay for the pretty drive to Braidwood and Canberra .
• Drive around the Snowy Mountains in summer. The as far as Cooma is just getting there. The real scenery starts there.
• Take a trip along Waterfall Way is windy roads and waterfalls up across the range, passing through the town of Bellingen .
• Take the 44-km decent on the Oxley Highway down. Descending rapidly from 1300 m to sea level in elevation in quite a short distance.
• Silver City Highway and Cobb Highway is for the outbackers who'd want bits of paved and unpaved roads.

Trains in NSW are run by two agencies, Sydney Trains (within the Sydney metro area), and NSW Trainlink. NSW Trainlink runs NSW Trainlink Regional (booked/reserved), and NSW Trainlink Intercity (unbookable/unreservable) services.

Long distance

NSW Trainlink Regional runs a network of trains to major destinations, and a network of connecting buses to offer a service to most New South Wales towns. It isn't exactly quick, or frequent, however some sort of service is generally offered to most towns once a day.

• Sydney to Coffs Harbour and Grafton via the Central Coast, Hunter Valley and North Coast, with some services continuing to Brisbane
• Sydney to Tamworth and Armidale via the Central Coast , Hunter Valley and New England.
• Sydney to Dubbo via the Blue Mountains and Central West.
• Sydney to Canberra via the Southern Highlands .
• Sydney to Albury on the Victorian Border, via the Southern Highlands and the Riverina , and continuing to Melbourne
• Sydney to Broken Hill (weekly, Monday to Broken Hill, and Tuesday return).

NSW Trainlink Regional trains are air-conditioned and equipped with comfortable seats. The overnight interstate trains to Melbourne and Brisbane have limited sleeping room available at a surcharge over a first class ticket.

Food, including hot meals, are available from a buffet car on board.

It is usual to book NSW Trainlink Regional tickets in advance. Tickets can be bought online, from agents, stations, or by phone. Some stations have very limited hours or no facilities for selling NSW Trainlink Regional tickets. Discounts are often available for advance purchase. You can buy tickets up until the time of departure, and services rarely run completely full outside of peak periods. It is essential to book NSW Trainlink Regional tickets in advance in some country towns as the stations do not open until the train is due. Some country towns are some distance from a rail station and a shuttle bus does the final stretch. The details are available when you book your ticket. Examples of this are at Port Macquarie and Walcha .

NSW Trainlink Intercity trains are integrated with the Sydney Trains network, and run a surprisingly long distance from the Sydney city centre, even overlapping with the routes of some NSW Trainlink Regional services. Where they do overlap, it is usual for the NSW Trainlink Intercity service to be cheaper, more flexible (in that no bookings are required and they are integrated with Sydney Trains ticketing), and to allow luggage and bikes in the carriage. They are, however, a little slower. See destination articles for details and alternatives. You will not get an assigned seat, but that is never a problem except for peak hour for the first 30 minutes away from the city during peak commuter period. Locals don't often use NSW Trainlink Intercity for holiday travel, so you won't see any evidence of crowds on holidays and weekends - the busy times are during peak hour commutes.

• Sydney to Newcastle via the Central Coast
• Newcastle to Scone and Dungog via Maitland and the Hunter Valley. Taking this service from Sydney is very indirect service, and taking Sydney Trains over NSW Trainlink Regional will add considerable travel time.
• Sydney to Lithgow via the Blue Mountains (with bus connection to Bathurst).
• Sydney to Goulburn via the Southern Highlands
• Sydney to Nowra via the Wollongong and South Coast.

See the Sydney article for more information on Sydney Trains and Sydney trains and NSW Trainlink Intercity ticketing.

The bus routes in New South Wales are more extensive than the train routes but share the same fundamental design: they take travellers to and from Sydney, or to the region's major hub. Many towns have a bus service especially to meet the trains to and from Sydney in a nearby town.

There are some exceptions to the rule, and some long distance cross country bus services do run, often to provide connections to other state capitals, or between state major centres. These services can be run only a few times a week, and you will have to be lucky to make connections.

The tripfinder service will find journeys about around New South Wales up through Newcastle the Hunter Valley , Illawarra and Southern Highlands and through the state's major centres. Travel further afield, particularly between complex destinations is left as an exercise for the traveller. See the local guides.

• NSW Trainlink Regional - operates bus services throughout the state.
• Greyhound - also services from Sydney to other state capitals, servicing the towns along the way.
• Murrays specialises in the Sydney to Canberra route, but also offers services to the Snowy Mountains (during winter) and connecting Wollongong to the Southern Highlands . Murrays also connects Canberra to Narooma (with stops at Queanbeyan , Bungendore , Braidwood , Batemans Bay , Batehaven , Moruya , Bodalla , and other towns) and Wollongong (with stops at Collector , Goulburn , Marulan , Moss Vale , Robertson , Albion Park , Dapto , Unanderra and Figtree).
• Premier operates along national route 1, servicing the South Coast , Mid-North Coast , and Northern Rivers
• Sydney Transport Group covers all Sydney suburbs as well as surrounding.
• Australia Wide Coaches operates coach services from Sydney to Orange, with stops at Katoomba , Lithgow and Bathurst .

Boxed bicycles can be taken on NSW Trainlink Regional trains as baggage for a small extra charge. NSW Trainlink Intercity services allow bikes to be carried free of charge outside peak weekday periods. Many New South Wales towns then have wide roads that enable them to be easily explored by bike.

By far, the state's, if not country's most famous and important landmark is, Sydney Harbour , also one of the state's favourite postcard scenes. It's best seen from the side of a ferry or from one of the islands in the centre, or one of the many lookouts in Sydney Harbour National Park .

While all are in Sydney, there are four world heritage-listed Australian convict sites in New South Wales: the Great North Road , Cockatoo Island , Hyde Park Barracks and the Old Government House in Parramatta .

So what is NSW's natural landmark you ask? That would be the Three Sisters in Katoomba , just within Blue Mountains National Park , receiving more than 8 million visitors annually. It's within the Sydney's extensive intercity train network and just an hour drive from Sydney CBD. Statistics and transport aside, the Three Sisters feature an iconic yet unusual rock formation. It's also Australia's most visited sacred Indigenous site; legend says they were turned into stone for protection.

Natural scenery

Sydney is renowned for its large green spaces and national parks scattered throughout the city, but NSW’s true photogenic locations lie well outside Sydney, most located within its 225 or so national parks . Most important parks have access via sealed roads, but not all; most notably Mungo National Park , has no access via sealed roads, but instead can only be accessed via at least 80 kilometres of driving on unsealed tracks. But remember that Mungo is an outlier; there are many other impressive places that are accessible via car.

If you’re set out all of NSW’s nature, no trip is complete without visiting the Three Sisters; see § Landmarks . But you’ve visited the Three Sisters umpteen times already, the Blue Mountains alone has many impressive lookouts, along with the oldest cave system, Jenolan Caves . The world’s oldest tree, the Wollemi Pine was also discovered in the nearby Wollemi National Park , but the exact location is kept secretive.

Just to the north, starting in the Hunter are the many Gondwana Rainforests of Australia , stretching from Barrington Tops National Park all the way to Main Range National Park in the Darling Downs region of Queensland. Not all of them are popular tourist spots, but the ones that are in NSW include Dorrigo National Park , New England National Park , Nightcap National Park , and Oxley Wild Rivers National Park . These rainforests form a part of the Great Dividing Range , meaning there’s plenty of mountain scenery!

Further down the Great Dividing Range is the Snowy Mountains . Whilst it’s mostly popular with domestic tourists, it does attract quite a lot of international visitors, for one reason – its snowy wilderness. Most of the wilderness is protected under the Kosciuszko National Park , where there are many ski resorts, hiking trails and pristine, untouched wildness areas.

In captivity

• Western Plains Zoo , an open-range zoo in Dubbo . See Australian and exotic animals roaming in large paddocks rather than pacing in small cages.
• Taronga Zoo , across the Harbour from Sydney.
• Featherdale Wildlife Park in the Outer West of Sydney . Smaller than Taronga, but flat and emphasising Australian fauna.
• Australian Reptile Park in Gosford about an hour north of Sydney, with much more than reptiles. (Hint: Go early, move slowly, stay quiet and you can pet the 'roos.)
• Wild Life Sydney in Darling Harbour
• Mogo Zoo in Mogo

In the wild

Many coastal towns offer whale watching cruises during the season, including Sydney . Alternatively, there are many coastal vantage points where you can catch a glimpse if you are lucky.

• Go on a dolphin cruise in Jervis Bay

• Surf your way up the coast from Sydney to the north coast of New South Wales.
• Go on one of the bushwalks from Katoomba into the Jamison Valley.
• Hire a houseboat in any one of many bays, lakes and rivers.
• Ski in the Snowy Mountains in winter.
• Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge and see the sun set over Sydney.
• Go to the Royal Easter Show in Sydney .
• Byron Bay's annual Blues and Roots festival is the state's largest roots music festival.
• Tamworth is Australia's country music capital and holds a country music festival in January each year.
• Camp in one of the many New South Wales national parks . (See www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au)
• Go wine tasting in the Hunter Valley
• Climb Mount Kosciuszko in the Snowy Mountains .
• Fish at the heritage listed Willandra Lakes, and participate in the fishing competitions

The city of Sydney, unsurprisingly, represents the main food lovers' haven in New South Wales. It's the best place in the state to seek out both gourmet food and international cuisine . Particular highlights are Sydney's growing wave of Thai and fusion restaurants, and those top end restaurants whose chefs were often trained in some of the best international kitchens. Sydney's cosmopolitan population guarantees that just about every major cuisine on the planet is authentically and easily available - and generally at a great price.

Most coastal regions, including the Mid-North Coast , Northern Rivers , Central Coast, Sydney and the South Coast are a good place for seafood lovers to eat. Inland the catch may be a little less fresh.

Parts of the Central West specialise in meals made from local produce . Several of these restaurants feature regularly in the Sydney restaurant reviews, and they are beginning to have prices to match.

Vegans and vegetarians should be able to find a meal or two to suit them in almost every restaurant in the eastern part of the state, but are best catered for in Sydney and surrounds (including the Hunter ) and after that, on the somewhat "alternative" Northern Rivers . However, that's not the case once you hit non-touristed areas inland.

Pubs, clubs and bars

• Sydney has much busier nightlife than the rest of the state and is the best place to find everything from international touring acts to backpacker bars and big beats. Other cities like Wollongong and Newcastle also have a diverse scene, with lots of choice of venues.
• Towns that cater to travellers and backpackers, like Byron Bay , Tweed Heads , and Batemans Bay , also have a selection of venues to choose from.
• Just about every country town in New South Wales will have at least one pub to choose from, from historical to the modern and upmarket. There is usually at least one club, being a bowling club, services club, etc. Visitors are welcome at pubs and clubs, and clubs usually have a sign out the front saying so. Meals and drinks are usually cheaper in the club, and depending on the town it can be slightly less rough and ready. Even country pubs will often have a band one or two nights a week, a pool table, juke box etc.

Wines are grown in many parts of New South Wales.

• The Hunter Valley is the state's major wine-growing region, and has a wine tourism industry to match. There are many winery tours from genteel wine-and-cheese tasting trips to minibuses full of partying backpackers and girls out on hens nights. Although a couple of hours drive north of Sydney , and is just a little too far for a comfortable day trip, it is less than an hour west of Newcastle via the Hunter Expressway (M15).
• Mudgee is another area of wine production, over the Blue Mountains .

Although tasting at the cellar door has a certain appeal, the wines themselves will certainly be cheaper at the bottle shop down the road.

Tooheys New (Lion) and Victoria Bitter (Carlton United) are the two big brands that will be on tap in most pubs around the state. Tooheys being the traditional New South Wales brand. Beer is served in schooners (smaller than a pint), or middies (about half a pint), so it is entirely reasonable to walk into most pubs and ask for 'schooner of new', and one will appear on bar. Beer glass sizes have different names and sizes in other states. On a hot day in a hot pub in the country, you will find more people drinking middles, as they stay colder.

New South Wales has followed the international trend towards craft beer, and there are more brands and types than you can poke a stick at.

James Squire, Cricketers Arms, Four Pines, Little Creatures, Yenda are some of the "crafty" brands put out by the multi-nationals available at many local pubs. There are hundreds of other independent microbreweries in New South Wales. The beers aren't hard to find if you look, but you'll have to seek them out rather than relying on the local pub to serve them.

It seems like every country town these days has its own craft brewing scene - and many wineries also having a shot at pouring the amber fluid as well. Outside of the big smoke, try Mudgee Brewing in Mudgee , or Badlands Brewery in Orange .

There are many hotels in New South Wales. Consult the sleep entries for the particular city you wish to visit.

Outside of weekends and school holidays it is usually possible to just drive and find accommodation along the road. Most towns of any size will have a motel or two on the road into town. Sometimes in low season they will display discounted standby rates at the gate as you drive past. If not, sometimes if they are not busy, a little discount can be negotiated at the counter. Generally expect motels to be cheaper the smaller the town, and the further away from the coast, the mountains, and Sydney that you are. Expect to pay a steep premium on weekends for those motels that are a "weekend away", for Sydneysiders.

Some of the chains covering many centres across New South Wales are:

• Country Comfort . Hotels and motels  
• Golden Chain Motels . Has 100 locations in NSW.  
• Best Western Motels .  
• Choice Hotels .  

Just about every town has a pub offering accommodation. The standard varies from newly renovated to run-down, with many quaint places in-between. In winter it can even be an idea to take a small heater, as the heating in some can often be a little inadequate.

Serviced apartments

Serviced apartments are alternatives to traditional hotel accommodation with more space and cooking facilities.

• Quest Apartments . A chain with apartments available in most urban and regional cities in New South Wales.  

Dangerous fauna

There are no box jellyfish or crocodiles in New South Wales. However there are "blue bottle" jellyfish common in several areas, that can give you a sting and a rash. The little blue balloon like creatures washed up the beach are a warning.

There are various types of shark swimming along the beaches, and attacks are frequent enough to warrant care. Try and swim only on patrolled beaches.

The Blue Ringed Octopus is one of the world's few venomous octopuses, and can be easily identified by being small and having distinctive blue rings.

Funnel Web Spiders are potentially deadly and found in Sydney and the surrounding areas. If you suspect that a funnel web has bitten you then call emergency services right away for anti-venom.

Snakes, including the dangerous Brown Snake are found in rural areas, and even in the bushland suburbs of Sydney.

Natural disasters

There are very few tropical cyclones or hurricanes, and tornadoes are very rare in New South Wales.

Some areas are prone to flooding, and some country towns, like Bellingen , have minor roads with low level bridges that can be cut even with moderate rainfall levels. Other roads that are unpaved or dirt, or have floodways can also be impacted. It is unusual for the major transport routes to be closed.

Be aware of the bushfire risk in summer if hiking in national parks.

Even when close to Australia's biggest city, it is surprisingly easy to get lost in the vast countryside, particularly in the Blue Mountains . Many areas are unshaded with no easy access to water, so getting lost can be deadly.

Smoking is banned indoors in all public buildings, bars, restaurants and transport, and in private cars with children. It is banned outside in all areas where food is served. Many pubs and clubs have established outdoor areas with covers and heaters to facilitate smoking where eating is prohibited. If you are sitting inside you're guaranteed to be smoke-free. Outside, and you should check the signs as most of the outdoor areas are also smoke-free zones.

Like smoking, vaping is generally frowned upon and is banned in most places where smoking is banned. "No smoking" signs include vaping.

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Sydney, spectacularly draped around its glorious harbor and beaches, has visual wow factor like few other cities. Scratch the surface and it only gets better.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sydney

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Sydney the oldest, biggest, and most beautiful of all Australian cities, lies amid a seductive intermingling of land and sea. Glide along the glittering harbor on a ferry, see the white sails of the Opera House gleaming in the sunshine, admire the graceful arch of the Harbour Bridge, and you'll see why this is one of the world's top cities.

It's hard to imagine this vibrant state capital of New South Wales was once a convict colony. In 1788, it was at Sydney Cove where Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the First Fleet, established the first British colony in Australia. Today, you can explore Sydney's fabled history in the narrow, cobbled laneways and historic buildings of the Rocks, and learn about the Gadigal Aboriginal people, the traditional custodians of this land, on guided tours and at the city's excellent museums.

Sydney still fizzes with the adventurous spirit of its settlers. Climb the harbor bridge, surf the green-barrel breaks at Sydney's golden beaches, or fly over the city on a scenic tour. And the adventures don't end in the city. Wildlife-rich wilderness areas surround the city providing appealing day trip possibilities .

Discover all the best places to visit in this famous harbor city with our list of the top things to do in Sydney, Australia.

See also: Where to Stay in Sydney

1. See the Sydney Opera House

2. the sydney harbour bridge, 3. stroll around the rocks, 4. hop aboard a harbor cruise at circular quay, 5. spend a day at darling harbour, 6. smell the roses at the royal botanic garden sydney, 7. shop 'til you drop at the queen victoria building, 8. zoom up the sydney tower eye, 9. bask on sydney's beaches, 10. bike or walk around barangaroo reserve, 11. go wild at taronga zoo, 12. wander along george street, 13. enjoy a picnic in hyde park, 14. admire the masterpieces at the art gallery of new south wales, 15. visit st. mary's cathedral, 16. explore macquarie street & the state library of new south wales, 17. enjoy yum cha in chinatown, 18. find vintage treasures and colorful street art in newtown, 19. check out kings cross, where to stay in sydney for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to sydney, sydney, australia - climate chart, more exciting adventures near sydney.

One of the world's great icons, the Sydney Opera House is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the star attraction on the glittering harbor. This graceful building, shaped like shells or billowing sails, perches on a finger of land surrounded by water.

You have several options for visiting the Sydney Opera House . Snap a photo while gliding by on a harbor cruise, relax at one of the restaurants, stroll around its exterior, or take an organized tour of this magnificent structure. Inside, you'll find theaters, studios, exhibition rooms, a concert hall, and a cinema.

Book a Sydney Opera House Guided Walking Tour to learn about the history and get a behind-the-scenes look at this famous building. This is a flexible ticket that allows you to join any one of the tours throughout the day, departing every half hour from 9am to 5pm.

Avid photographers should head to Mrs Macquarie's Chair for one of the best photo opportunities.

The Sydney Opera House just emerged from an almost $300-million "Decade of Renewal." Among the many improvements is a renovated Concert Hall — try and catch a show here when you visit.

Author's Tip: If you happen to be in Sydney in late May or early June during the Sydney Vivid festival , stop by at night to see the white sails lit up with colorful digital art.

Location: Bennelong Point, Sydney, New South Wales

Nicknamed the "Coathanger," the Sydney Harbour Bridge is another Sydney icon. Supported by massive double piers at each end, it was built in 1932 and remains the world's largest steel arch bridge .

You can drive over it, cruise below it, chug over it on a train, or photograph it from afar. But one of the best ways to appreciate this marvel of engineering, and soak up the spectacular views of Sydney Harbour, is on a climb to its 135-meter-high summit.

Scaling the bridge is one of Australia's top outdoor adventures, and you can choose from a range of different tours. Sydney BridgeClimb takes groups on an approximately 3.5-hour climb to the top of the outer arch. Tours run throughout the day, beginning with a dawn climb and ending with a night climb. You can also choose from different types of climbs, including an Indigenous storytelling experience and a climb right across the arch to the other side — the bridge connects the harbor's north and south shores.

Guided ascents of the bridge with BridgeClimbSydney include a pre-climb prep talk, safety gear, and a photo on the summit. Along the way, you'll learn all kinds of entertaining stories about the history of the bridge. One of its most famous workers was Paul Hogan, aka Crocodile Dundee, before he became famous.

To learn more about the fascinating history of the bridge's construction, visit the museum in the southeastern pier.

Address: 5 Cumberland Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Want to soak up a bit of Sydney history? Take a stroll around The Rocks . Located on a tongue of land protruding into Sydney Harbour, the Rocks historic area was once home to the Gadigal Aboriginal people. Later, it became the country's first site of European settlement.

The Rocks was named for the rocky coast on the west side of Sydney Cove where the convicts pitched their tents. Today, more than 100 heritage sites and buildings jostle along the narrow streets, including Sydney's oldest surviving house, Cadmans Cottage , built in 1816.

The first stop should be a visit to The Rocks Discovery Museum . Here, you can learn about the area's fascinating transformation from traditional Aboriginal lands to convict slum to tourist hot spot. You can also join a 30-minute free guided tour at 1pm and 1:30pm daily.

Afterward, wander around the narrow, cobbled streets. Pick up some souvenirs at the gift shops, buy handcrafted goodies at the market stalls (Friday nights, Saturdays, and Sundays), and admire Aboriginal and contemporary art in the galleries. You'll also find plenty of atmospheric little restaurants and cafés here.

Guided tours run the gamut, from Aboriginal heritage walks to photographic excursions, and if you're looking for unusual things to do in Sydney, you can book a nighttime ghost tour.

Address: 66 Harrington Street, Level 6, The Rocks, Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney is famous for its sparkling waterfront setting, and one of the most popular things to do in Sydney Harbour is a sightseeing cruise. Most harbor cruises depart from Circular Quay in Sydney Cove, which is also home to the city's main ferry terminal.

Short on time? Book the two-hour Sydney Harbour Coffee Cruise , which takes you past all the harbor highlights and to some of the most scenic places in Sydney, including the Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Fort Denison. Learn fascinating facts about the key sights along the way, and keep your camera ready — you'll have plenty of photo ops.

Prefer to spot some wildlife during your tour? During the annual winter whale migration, the Sydney Whale-Watching Cruise takes passengers out past Sydney Heads to view these magnificent creatures.

If you don't have time for a harbor cruise, you can still see some of the top sites on a ferry ride around the harbor. Ferries depart from Circular Quay to prime spots, such as Manly , Watsons Bay , and Taronga Park Zoo .

Author's Tip: From Circular Quay, you can easily walk to other top Sydney tourist attractions . Head south along the waterfront promenade to the Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Gardens, and a short walk to the north leads to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Rocks historic area. To the west, the free Museum of Contemporary Art, housed in an Art Deco building, displays cutting-edge, and often controversial, exhibitions.

Darling Harbour has something for everyone. Packed with tourist attractions, this waterfront precinct on the western side of Sydney's CBD is a hub for tourists and locals alike. You'll find everything here, from shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues to museums, a zoo, an aquarium, and an IMAX theater.

Families will love Madame Tussaud's; the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo; and the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, which contains the world's largest collection of Australian marine creatures. The SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Entrance Ticket is a great way to get ahead of the crowds.

Nautical-minded history buffs can board a replica of Captain Cook's ship, the HMB Endeavour , at the Australian National Maritime Museum. And while you're wandering around, keep an eye out for colorful artwork along the Darling Harbour Street Art Trail .

Younger children will love the carousel, playgrounds, and water park. An IMAX and 9D theater, harbor jet boat rides, simulated flights, and racing car adventures round out the exciting attractions.

Seeking a tranquil patch of green? Slip into the Chinese Garden of Friendship , and sip tea among the willows and koi ponds.

As well as offering a one-stop shop of Sydney attractions for families, Darling Harbour also hosts an exciting line-up of events, from art exhibitions and film festivals to music concerts at the Aware Super Theatre .

Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Chill out at The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney in Farm Cove. A visit to this tranquil oasis is one of the many relaxing things to do in the city for free — especially if you're in need of a nature fix — and it's only a short stroll from the Sydney Opera House.

Established in 1816, the gardens are Australia's oldest botanic garden . They encompass 30 hectares of themed gardens with towering trees, palm groves, orchids, ferns, succulents, tropical gardens, rainforest plants, herbs, and Oriental gardens.

Garden lovers will be in heaven. The Palace Rose Garden blushes with around 1,800 roses. The Glasshouse Latitude 23 and Fernery brims with tropical foliage, begonias, and orchids; and the Cadi Jam Ora - First Encounters Garden tells the story of the Gadigal people, the land's traditional custodians, and explores the relationship between people and plants.

Aboriginal cultural tours and guided walks are offered, as well as events such as bush tucker morning teas and picnics.

Wondering what's nearby? Surrounding the gardens is the Domain , a popular event venue, with open green space and sports areas. And while you're visiting the gardens, you can enjoy views of Government House , the official residence of the governor of New South Wales.

Address: Mrs Macquarie's Road, Sydney, New South Wales

If shopping is high on your agenda, head to the Romanesque-style Queen Victoria Building ("QVB"). Even if you're not planning to buy anything, it's worth a visit just to admire this beautifully restored building and its colorful stained-glass windows and mosaic floors.

A high central dome surrounded by 20 smaller domes crowns this elegant building, which was originally built as a market hall between 1893 and 1898. After decades of neglect and even plans for demolition, this grand sandstone building was restored to its original state in the early 1980s.

Today, more than 200 high-end shops line its light-filled galleries. Australian stores include R.M. Williams, Lorna Jane, and Haigh's chocolates, as well as many Aussie designer boutiques, and you'll also find homeware stores, gift stores, and galleries.

Feeling peckish? The Tea Room QVB hosts a popular High Tea under crystal chandeliers.

You can access the QVB from Town Hall Station through underground arcades.

If you want to learn more about the history of this magnificent heritage building, sign up for a 45-minute QVB History Tour .

Address: 455 George Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Soaring above the city skyline, the 309-meter-high Sydney Tower Eye is the city's tallest building and one of its great landmarks (other than the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, of course). This golden spire-topped turret rises from the busy Centrepoint shopping mall.

Zooming up the Sydney Tower Eye is one of the popular things to do in the Sydney CBD for tourists. Express lifts whisk visitors to the observation deck at the top, or to SKYWALK, an alfresco glass-floor viewing platform, the perfect spot for sightseeing. While you're up here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sydney and its surrounding suburbs, or enjoy a bite to eat at one of the revolving restaurants or the café.

Also on offer is a 4D cinema experience, which provides an overview of the city's major icons.

Address: 100 Market Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney is famous for its beautiful beaches . Tucked around the harbor are many sheltered coves with calm water and sugary sands.

You don't need to venture far from the CBD to find an inviting stretch of sand and sea. Iconic Bondi Beach is less than a 15-minute drive from the city, with great surf, a buzzing café scene, and a cosmopolitan vibe. For fantastic ocean views, take the coastal walk along the cliffs from Bondi to Coogee Beach .

If you're traveling by public transport, Cronulla is the only beach accessible by train from the city, and Manly Beach is only a 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay . Here, you can swim in the surf or the netted ocean pool, take a surf lesson, or stroll along the beachfront promenade and stop in at the excellent shops and restaurants.

Farther north of the city, surfers will find some fantastic breaks at Collaroy , Dee Why , and Narrabeen . Swimming is enjoyable at most Sydney beaches — especially during the summer months — but you should always stay between the red and yellow flags.

Barangaroo Reserve is an excellent example of a successful urban renewal project. Named after the influential female Indigenous leader at the time of European colonization, the area was transformed from an unsightly container terminal and opened to the public in 2015 with a commitment to sustainability and enhancing community wellbeing.

With more than 75,000 native trees and shrubs, as well as walking and cycling tracks, this 22-hectare waterfront precinct is a lovely spot for a stroll or bike along the harbor. You'll also find shops, restaurants, and event and exhibition space here.

One of the most popular things to do at Barangaroo is the Wulugul Walk . This scenic waterfront promenade skirts the six-hectare re-created Sydney Harbour headland at the reserve's northern end and extends for two kilometers between Walsh Bay and Darling Harbour .

Along the way, you can admire an evocative series of public art installations. Keep an eye out for shell wall , a 22-meter-tall vertical panel on the side of a building at the reserve's southern gateway, created by two of Australia's leading Indigenous artists. You can learn about the area's rich Indigenous heritage on an Aboriginal cultural tour .

In 2023, a new recreation space opened in Barangaroo as part of the planned Harbour Park open space on Sydney's foreshore. Bring the kids here to bounce around in the play area and challenge each other to a game of handball. Parents can work out in the outdoor gym or relax in the shady sitting areas.

Barangaroo is only a four-minute walk from Wynyard station, and you can also catch a ferry direct to the new Barangaroo Wharf.

At Taronga Zoo , you can see all your favorite animals, as well as spectacular city views. Nestled on a point along the north side of the harbor, the zoo inhabits prime Sydney real estate in the posh suburb of Mosman, and it's one of the top things to do with kids in Sydney .

Here, you can enjoy close-up encounters with iconic Aussie wildlife and other animals from around the world. Highlights include the African Savannah exhibit, Tiger Trek, chimpanzees, and gorillas.

Daily keeper presentations and animal shows add to all the fun. Feed the giraffes, meet the Asian elephants, get up close to a cuddly koala, or make friends with a meerkat. Another bonus: Entertaining shows are included with your entry ticket, including a Seals for the Wild presentation and a Free Flight Birds show.

The zoo's lively events calendar includes "Roar and Snore" overnight zoo stays and a summer concert series. You can purchase a Sydney Taronga Zoo Entry Ticket in advance, which includes a ride on the Sky Safari gondola.

Want to stay longer? Book a room at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga . This unique eco-retreat on the zoo grounds gives you after-hours viewings of some of the animals, as well as all kinds of other perks.

From the city, buses to the zoo depart from Wynyard. Better still, hop aboard a ferry at Circular Quay .

Address: Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, New South Wales

Bustling George Street, in the heart of the city, is Australia's oldest street. Once a nameless track trodden by convicts fetching supplies of water, it's now one of the city's major traffic arteries. It's worth exploring to feel the pulse of this vibrant city and browse the shops.

You'll see a mix of architectural styles here. Gleaming high-rise office blocks brush shoulders with historic buildings. A highlight is the elegant Romanesque-style Queen Victoria Building replete with graceful domes, stained-glass windows, and high-end stores.

Nearby, the Sydney Town Hall (1869) is a major city landmark sporting a medley of architectural styles (it's been compared to a richly decorated wedding cake). Another architectural standout is the neo-Gothic St. Andrew's Cathedral , completed and consecrated in 1868.

Need a shopping fix? You'll find plenty of high-end shops in the Queen Victoria Building , and designer boutiques and jewelry stores line the Victorian-style Strand Arcade . If you're looking for more accessible name brands, Pitt Street Mall , one block east of George Street, is one of the city's major shopping precincts.

Named after Hyde Park in London, Sydney's Hyde Park is Australia's oldest park . It's a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the city and a lovely spot for a picnic. Sprawling lawns, shady picnic spots, flowers, fountains, and fig trees provide a welcome escape, and the park offers prime people-watching - especially at lunch when city workers come here to kick off their shoes.

Several monuments and memorials punctuate this popular 16-hectare green space. The park's bronze Archibald Fountain (1932) commemorates Australia's alliance with France during WWI, and the Art Deco Anzac War Memorial (1934), in the southern half of the park, honors its victims.

At the north end of Hyde Park, in Queens Square, are three fine Georgian buildings, masterpieces of the convict architect Sir Francis Greenway: Hyde Park Barracks , St. James' Church , and the Supreme Court . Built by convict labor in 1817-19, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hyde Park Barracks was restored to its original condition in 1975-84 and now houses a museum on the history of Sydney, portraying the lives of the first involuntary "settlers."

On the east side of Hyde Park is the Australian Museum , with the largest natural history collection in the country.

Address: Elizabeth Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Official site: http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/explore/facilities/parks/major-parks/hyde-park

Surrounded by beautiful parklands, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of the country's most distinguished art museums. The building dates from 1885 and houses spacious, light-filled galleries and Grand Courts, with collections ranging from works by European masters and Asian artists to evocative contemporary art from around the world. The gallery also houses one of the largest collections of Aboriginal art in Australia .

Currently, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is undergoing a transformation and expansion -The Sydney Modern Project - which includes the addition of a brand new sustainable building, a public art garden, and a grand forecourt, as well as restoration of the historic building. Once completed in late 2022, the museum will occupy double the exhibition space, flowing between indoor and outdoor spaces, and will continue to be a major destination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.

After admiring all the masterpieces, you can relax at the café or restaurant, or browse the gallery gift shop.

Address: Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney, New South Wales

Official site: http://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/

Facing Hyde Park, St. Mary's Cathedral (1868-82) is a symbol of the spiritual beginnings of the Catholic Church in Australia. This striking landmark, in neo-Gothic style, is the seat of the Archbishop of Sydney.

Topped by twin spires, the building was modeled on Lincoln Cathedral, and its imposing façade reflects the design of Notre-Dame in Paris. Inside the cathedral, intricate stained-glass windows cast beautiful patterns of light. Christmas is an especially evocative time to visit, when the cathedral is adorned with lights and decorations.

Location: St. Mary's Road and College Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Official site: http://www.stmaryscathedral.org.au/

Stretching from Hyde Park in the south to the Sydney Opera House in the north, Macquarie Street was once Sydney's most fashionable street. Governor Macquarie commissioned the construction of many of the colony's grand public buildings along this strand, some designed by convict architect Francis Greenway. Impressive sandstone residences soon followed, with verandas to capture the beautiful views of the surrounding parklands and Sydney Harbour.

In 1816, the completion of Sydney Hospital on Macquarie Street encouraged doctors to set up offices nearby. However, the hospital's capacity exceeded demand, and legislative offices moved into some of its buildings. Today, Parliament House occupies the hospital's northern wing and is open to the public when the New South Wales Parliament is in session.

A top attraction on Macquarie Street is the State Library of New South Wales , the oldest library in Australia. Among its jewels are the journals of Captain Cook and Joseph Banks , as well as Captain Bligh's log from the Bounty. The permanent and temporary exhibitions here are always worth visiting, and you can relax with a snack in the café or pick up a quirky Australian souvenir at the gift shop.

You'll also find The Mint on Macquarie Street in the southern wing of the former hospital. It's now home to a library, central courtyard, and café.

Official site: http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/

Inhale the fragrance of sizzling Szechuan spices, shop for Chinese specialty items, or feast on authentic Asian cuisine at Sydney's Chinatown. Framed by lion gates at each end, this small district lies in the pedestrian zone of Dixon Street, between Darling Harbour and Central Station.

Yum cha is a popular pastime here, and the Friday night market is a feast for the senses, with everything from dim sum and Vietnamese pho to teppanyaki. On the first full moon after January 21, the streets of Chinatown come alive during the celebration of the Chinese New Year.

Near Chinatown, Paddy's Markets at Haymarket is a Sydney institution from Wednesdays through Sundays, with hundreds of stalls selling fresh produce, bargain fashions, and souvenirs.

Address: Dixon Street, Haymarket, New South Wales

Fashionistas, take note: fun and funky Newtown is a hot spot for vintage treasures and thrift store shopping. You'll find this hipster-packed inner-city suburb about a 10-minute drive from the city center.

One-of-a-kind pieces cram the racks in the best boutiques here. Favorites include The Wilde Merchant selling everything from retro tees to workwear and Japanese pieces, while Storeroom Vintage displays rare music tees and other hand-picked gems from the 70s to the 2000s. Stitch Up Sydney specializes in collectible band tees and designer sneakers. Real King Vintage also sells vintage T-shirts, as well as sportswear and preloved goodies from top brands like Tommy Hilfiger Nike, Carharrt, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Is Western wear and Americana more your jam? Head to Route 66 .

After hitting all the hottest vintage shops, fuel up with a snack at one of the area's eclectic restaurants and cafés — you'll find everything here from Turkish cuisine and Thai food to Italian trattorias. Then polish it off with an award-winning gelato from Cow & the Moon — their Mandorla Affogato flavor once won the "best in the world" award.

Newtown is also famous for its vibrant street art . Start with the "I have a dream" mural on King Street, and keep your eyes peeled. You'll find other murals popping from the walls on Lennox Street, Mary Street, and Bedford Street to name a few.

Author's Tip: About a five-minute drive from Newtown, the Markets at Glebe is one of the best places to find deals on designer vintage treasures — from pre-loved designer clothing, shoes, and accessories to hand-crafted jewelry and cutting-edge creations from new local designers. The markets are open every Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

About two kilometers east of the CBD, Kings Cross is Sydney's multi-faceted red light district and the city's nightlife hub . If you're interested in experiencing an edgier part of the city, this is a great place to visit. You can also catch a play at one of the theaters.

Called "The Cross" by locals, it has an intriguing, Bohemian past. The area was an artistic quarter around 1920, until it evolved into a popular haunt for beatniks during the 1950s and later, hippies. During the Vietnam War, the area started its slow slide to depravity when large numbers of American troops came here on "rest and recreation" leave. You can find out more about the area's spicy history on a guided walking tour.

Despite the area's less-than-savory reputation at night, it wears a different face during the day. Backpackers from the many hostels in the area huddle at hip cafés . Boutique hotels shelter fashionistas, and foodies come here to dine at the trendy restaurants.

To find Kings Cross, look for the large Coca-Cola billboard, at the intersection of William Street and Darlinghurst Road. It's a famous Sydney landmark and is often referred to as the "Gateway to The Cross."

For first-time visitors to Sydney, a fantastic base for sightseeing is The Rocks , the city's historic district. Spectacular harbor views, heritage-listed buildings, museums, shops, galleries, and cute courtyard cafés make this a great place to stay. From here, many of Sydney's top tourist attractions are within easy walking distance, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Also a short stroll from here is Circular Quay, the departure point for harbor cruises and ferries. Here are some highly rated hotels in the area :

Luxury Hotels :

• Deluxe hotel options include the harborfront Park Hyatt , one of the country's top hotels; The Langham, Sydney ; and the Four Seasons ; all with stunning harbor views.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Near Wynyard Station, the Little National Hotel Sydney offers affordable, compact rooms with comfy beds.
• For families and travelers seeking apartment-style accommodation, Sky Suites Sydney is a top choice, with studios and one- and two-bedroom suites.
• The 90-room boutique Ovolo 1888 Sydney Harbour occupies a heritage-listed old wool store and factory. Bold, contemporary interior design contrasts with the historic building.

Budget Hotels :

• For cost-conscious travelers, The Australian Heritage Hotel and The Mercantile Hotel offer affordable rooms in a superb location.

In contrast to the regular and spacious layout of the younger Australian cities, Sydney is a complicated maze of one-way streets and narrow lanes. Public transport or tours are highly recommended for first-time visitors.

• See the Sights: For the best introduction to the sights of Sydney, book a Sydney and Bondi Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour , which stops near the major sights in the city center, around the harbor, and Bondi Beach. Tickets are valid for 24 or 48 hours, and you can hop on and off the bus as often as you please.
• Save Money : Planning to visit several Sydney tourist attractions? Save money on admission by purchasing a Sydney Attractions Pass . You can choose from a combination of two, three, or four attractions, such as WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, the Sydney Tower Eye, and more.
• Take a Day Trip : Just a short drive outside the city is some spectacular mountain scenery. If you have time for just one day trip, take the Blue Mountains Nature and Wildlife Day Tour from Sydney . This small group tour provides pickup and drop-off from your hotel, lunch, entrance fee to the Featherdale Wildlife Park, and a guide.

One of the most beautiful cities in Australia, Sydney is surrounded by plenty of enticing day trip destinations. The World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains has some of the best hikes in Australia ; the beautiful Hunter Valley is a hot spot for foodies; and Canberra , the nation's capital, is only a three-hour drive away.

More on Australia

NSW launches ‘Feel New’ tourism campaign

24 oct 2021.

• 24 Oct 2021 NSW launches ‘Feel New’ tourism campaign NSW launches ‘Feel New’ tourism campaign <p><span><span><span><em><span><span>NSW’s new tourism campaign is an open invitation to all to come and feel new in NSW and be transformed by the myriad of energising benefits the state offers visitors.</span></span></em></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>“Feel New” is the compelling promise of New South Wales’ new tourism campaign unveiled today to promote travel and tourism to the state. Connecting the abundance of natural wonders and vibrant culture available in NSW, the campaign is inspired by the rich emotional benefits Sydney and NSW offer to energise its visitors like nowhere else.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>Launched by the NSW Government via Destination NSW, ‘Feel New’ reveals the unique attributes of NSW that set it apart from other destinations. It is a key pillar of the NSW Government’s </span></span><span><span>Visitor Economy Strategy (VES) 2030, which aims to make NSW the premier visitor economy of the Asia Pacific, contributing $65 billion in visitor expenditure by 2030.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres said now was a critical time to market NSW as the feel-good state.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>“NSW offers dynamic and diverse destinations and visitor experiences like nowhere else. From the outback to the mountains, to the city and the coast, this unmatched offering and the energising impact it has on us is what draws travellers here every year.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>“This campaign sums up all the things I love about our State. It invites everyone to get out and appreciate the beauty and wonder of NSW and promises a return to the excitement and adventure that we all need to feel new again,” Mr Ayres said. </span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>“We know NSW offers diverse and compelling destinations and experiences like nowhere else. From the vibrant 24-hour culture of Sydney, Australia’s only global city, to the unique experiences provided by our regions, NSW’s tourism offering is unmatched.”</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer Steve Cox said that ‘Feel New’<em> </em>brought a fresh, new approach to the NSW Government’s strategy to&nbsp;grow visitation, connecting with people on a personal level.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>"As humans, we know that when we take a break, we feel better. We feel energised and renewed, and we are happier, not only when we are enjoying that break but also once we return to our regular lives – the holiday high stays with us.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>“I am inspired and transformed every time I take a trip in NSW – these rich, emotional benefits are what we all crave and are seeking in our lives. ‘Feel New’<em> </em>was informed by this consumer desire but founded on the endless feelings the state gives you when you visit,” Mr Cox said.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>Developed in partnership with visitor economy stakeholders, Leo Burnett Australia and Havas Media Australia, ‘Feel New’ will debut in the Australian market on 24 October 2021. Vast and eclectic NSW landscapes and cultural encounters will feature as part of the new brand creative, which includes a 60-second, 30-</span></span><span>second and 15-second TV spot. </span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>The TV spot features Nina Simone’s 1965 track, </span></span><span>‘Feeling Good’, re-recorded by NSW artist, Azure Ryder, and producer duo Breathe, as well as a performance by Bangarra Dance Theatre. <span>Additionally, a series of seven ‘Feel’ films will be released as part of the campaign</span><span>,</span><span> each exploring some of the individual feelings a visit to NSW can provide to travellers.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>Some of the state's top feelings-led experiences highlighted in the TV creative include:</span></span></span></span></span></p> <ul> <li><span><span><span><span><span>Adventure – Abseiling down Empress Falls in the Blue Mountains, skiing the back country in the Snowy Mountains or kayaking through untouched waterways in Bellingen.</span></span></span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span><span><span>Escape – getting a change of scene on a road trip and camping adventure in Outback NSW or exploring Red Cedar Falls in Dorrigo National Park</span></span></span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span><span><span>Connection – Having senses sparked by Bangarra Dance Theatre or walking on country and learning about bush tucker with an Aboriginal guide. </span></span></span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span><span><span>Rejuvenation – the invigoration of feeling the cold sea water on your skin upon diving in for an early morning swim at Mahon Ocean Pool.</span></span></span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span><span><span>Awe – admiring the beauty of the Harbour on a ferry ride across Sydney Harbour, riding horseback in Jindabyne or taking in the lunar-like landscape of Mungo National Park.</span></span></span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span><span><span>Belonging – being part of the audience at a drag show or partying like the night will never end while watching fireworks light up the skies over Darling Harbour.</span></span></span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span><span><span>Joy – the exhilaration of surfing at Freshwater Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches or being caught in a summer thunderstorm.</span></span></span></span></span></li> </ul> <p><span><span><span><span><span>Phase one of the campaign will commence with broadcast advertising, digital media, including video on demand and subscription TV, media partnerships, public relations and trade activity. A complementary recovery plan will launch on 14 November. Phase 2 of the 'Feel New’ campaign will roll out from February 2022.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>View the Destination NSW ‘Feel New’ campaign &nbsp;</span></span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sf739RKj8Uk"><span>Feel New 60 second TV spot,</span></a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaFoxSQvVtI"><span>Feel Joy film</span></a><span> and </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjEVRYPA27U"><span>Feel Free film</span></a><span>,<span> and visitnsw.com for travel inspiration and itineraries to make you #feelNSW.</span></span></span></span></span></p> PDF

NSW’s new tourism campaign is an open invitation to all to come and feel new in NSW and be transformed by the myriad of energising benefits the state offers visitors.

“Feel New” is the compelling promise of New South Wales’ new tourism campaign unveiled today to promote travel and tourism to the state. Connecting the abundance of natural wonders and vibrant culture available in NSW, the campaign is inspired by the rich emotional benefits Sydney and NSW offer to energise its visitors like nowhere else.

Launched by the NSW Government via Destination NSW, ‘Feel New’ reveals the unique attributes of NSW that set it apart from other destinations. It is a key pillar of the NSW Government’s Visitor Economy Strategy (VES) 2030, which aims to make NSW the premier visitor economy of the Asia Pacific, contributing $65 billion in visitor expenditure by 2030.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres said now was a critical time to market NSW as the feel-good state.

“NSW offers dynamic and diverse destinations and visitor experiences like nowhere else. From the outback to the mountains, to the city and the coast, this unmatched offering and the energising impact it has on us is what draws travellers here every year.

“This campaign sums up all the things I love about our State. It invites everyone to get out and appreciate the beauty and wonder of NSW and promises a return to the excitement and adventure that we all need to feel new again,” Mr Ayres said.

“We know NSW offers diverse and compelling destinations and experiences like nowhere else. From the vibrant 24-hour culture of Sydney, Australia’s only global city, to the unique experiences provided by our regions, NSW’s tourism offering is unmatched.”

Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer Steve Cox said that ‘Feel New’ brought a fresh, new approach to the NSW Government’s strategy to grow visitation, connecting with people on a personal level.

"As humans, we know that when we take a break, we feel better. We feel energised and renewed, and we are happier, not only when we are enjoying that break but also once we return to our regular lives – the holiday high stays with us.

“I am inspired and transformed every time I take a trip in NSW – these rich, emotional benefits are what we all crave and are seeking in our lives. ‘Feel New’ was informed by this consumer desire but founded on the endless feelings the state gives you when you visit,” Mr Cox said.

Developed in partnership with visitor economy stakeholders, Leo Burnett Australia and Havas Media Australia, ‘Feel New’ will debut in the Australian market on 24 October 2021. Vast and eclectic NSW landscapes and cultural encounters will feature as part of the new brand creative, which includes a 60-second, 30- second and 15-second TV spot.

The TV spot features Nina Simone’s 1965 track, ‘Feeling Good’, re-recorded by NSW artist, Azure Ryder, and producer duo Breathe, as well as a performance by Bangarra Dance Theatre. Additionally, a series of seven ‘Feel’ films will be released as part of the campaign , each exploring some of the individual feelings a visit to NSW can provide to travellers.

Some of the state's top feelings-led experiences highlighted in the TV creative include:

• Adventure – Abseiling down Empress Falls in the Blue Mountains, skiing the back country in the Snowy Mountains or kayaking through untouched waterways in Bellingen.
• Escape – getting a change of scene on a road trip and camping adventure in Outback NSW or exploring Red Cedar Falls in Dorrigo National Park
• Connection – Having senses sparked by Bangarra Dance Theatre or walking on country and learning about bush tucker with an Aboriginal guide.
• Rejuvenation – the invigoration of feeling the cold sea water on your skin upon diving in for an early morning swim at Mahon Ocean Pool.
• Awe – admiring the beauty of the Harbour on a ferry ride across Sydney Harbour, riding horseback in Jindabyne or taking in the lunar-like landscape of Mungo National Park.
• Belonging – being part of the audience at a drag show or partying like the night will never end while watching fireworks light up the skies over Darling Harbour.
• Joy – the exhilaration of surfing at Freshwater Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches or being caught in a summer thunderstorm.

Phase one of the campaign will commence with broadcast advertising, digital media, including video on demand and subscription TV, media partnerships, public relations and trade activity. A complementary recovery plan will launch on 14 November. Phase 2 of the 'Feel New’ campaign will roll out from February 2022.

View the Destination NSW ‘Feel New’ campaign   Feel New 60 second TV spot, Feel Joy film and Feel Free film , and visitnsw.com for travel inspiration and itineraries to make you #feelNSW.

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Byron Bay, New South Wales

Guide to Byron Bay

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• Getting to Byron Bay
• When to visit

A mecca of sand, sun and serenity, this New South Wales beach town is a coastal paradise.

Look back a few decades and Byron Bay was known for its alternative culture, easygoing surfers and off-the-grid hippies. Now, Byron may be a bit more refined, but it’s no less beautiful. You’ll still find incredible surf breaks and tranquil yoga retreats that give a nod to Byron’s hippie history. You’ll also find newcomers including award-winning restaurants, luxurious beach houses and craft breweries. From barefoot backpackers to Hollywood celebrities, Byron Bay has retained its status as a destination for everyone.

Byron Bay is around an 80-minute drive from the nearest major city, Gold Coast, and is serviced by a regional airport at Ballina, around a 30-minute drive to the south. 

• Ballina Byron Gateway Airport (BNK) is 35km (22mi) from Byron Bay and services domestic arrivals
• Gold Coast Airport (OOL) is 66km (41mi) from Byron Bay and services international and domestic arrivals
• Hire cars and shuttle services are available from both airports
• Hire cars are also available in Byron Bay

You can explore Byron Bay town by bicycle, but to venture further you’ll need to hire a car.

An iconic beach destination, Byron Bay is a great place to holiday at any time of the year. The spring months are warm and relatively dry, so you may want to time your visit before the busy summer holiday season. Come in autumn and you'll still enjoy good beach weather. The best surfing conditions generally occur in winter. 

• High season: Spring and summer (September to February)
• Low season: Winter (June to August)
• Don’t miss: The line-up of music, art and food festivals that happen year-round

Top places to eat and drink in Byron Bay

Soak up the vibrant foodie scene in byron, australia’s hipster heartland., holiday in byron bay.

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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• 8 Breathtaking Small Towns to Visit in New South Wales

When people think of New South Wales , Sydney’s iconic Opera House and bustling Bondi Beach often come to mind. However, beyond these well-known landmarks, there are numerous small towns scattered throughout the state that offer an enriching experience. For those who venture beyond the city lights, New South Wales reveals a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be explored.

Set against a backdrop of rolling hills, pristine beaches, and verdant valleys, New South Wales' small towns have a unique character. Bellingen, with its artistic vibe, Berry's historic allure, and Mudgee’s renowned vineyards, each offer a distinct flavor of local life. Towns such as Kangaroo Valley, nestled in lush greenery, Yamba with its coastal tranquility, and Tilba Tilba’s heritage charm are not to be missed. Each town provides a distinctive experience, rich with history and natural beauty.

Bellingen is a haven for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and artistic flair. The town is known for its lush landscapes, with the Promised Land and Never Never Creek offering crystal clear waters perfect for a refreshing swim. The Bellingen Community Markets, held monthly, are a vibrant showcase of local crafts, organic produce, and live music, reflecting the town's creative spirit.

A short drive away is the Dorrigo National Park, home to ancient rainforests and breathtaking waterfalls like Dangar Falls. The Skywalk Lookout offers panoramic views of the rainforest canopy and the Bellinger Valley below, making it a must-visit spot. Bellingen’s streets are lined with charming cafes, boutique shops, and historic buildings, providing a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll.

Berry is a quintessential country town that combines historical charm with modern elegance. The main street is lined with heritage buildings housing gourmet restaurants, artisan shops, and cozy cafes. Don't miss the famous Berry Sourdough Bakery, where the scent of freshly baked bread wafts through the air, drawing visitors in for a taste of their delectable pastries and coffee.

A visit to the Berry Historic Museum provides insight into the town's rich past, showcasing artifacts and stories from the early settlers. Surrounding the town are lush farmlands and wineries, where you can sample local wines and fresh produce. The nearby Seven Mile Beach offers a pristine stretch of sand and surf, perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean.

Mudgee, located in the Central West of NSW, is a wine lover's paradise. The town boasts over 40 wineries, many of which offer cellar door experiences. Mudgee's vineyards produce some of Australia’s finest Shiraz and Chardonnay, and the annual Mudgee Wine & Food Festival is a testament to the region's culinary prowess.

Beyond wine, Mudgee is rich in heritage. The Mudgee Heritage Walking Tour takes you through streets lined with 19th-century buildings, while the Mudgee Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s gold rush history. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the stunning views from the Mudgee Observatory or exploring the natural beauty of the nearby Wollemi National Park.

Kangaroo Valley

Known as one of the most beautiful valleys in Australia, Kangaroo Valley is a lush, green oasis surrounded by rugged escarpments. The historic Hampden Bridge, Australia’s last surviving wooden suspension bridge, welcomes visitors with its unique Victorian design. Pioneer Museum Park offers a fascinating look into the valley’s history with its collection of historic buildings and artifacts.

The natural beauty of Kangaroo Valley is a major drawcard. Fitzroy Falls, located within the Morton National Park, offers stunning views as water cascades 80 meters into the valley below. Canoeing on the Kangaroo River, bushwalking through the national parks, and spotting local wildlife are popular activities. The quaint village atmosphere, complete with charming cafes and boutique shops, adds to the valley’s allure.

Situated at the mouth of the Clarence River, Yamba is a coastal gem known for its laid-back lifestyle and beautiful beaches. Main Beach, with its surf breaks and historic lighthouse, is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The Yamba River Markets, held monthly, offer a variety of local produce, crafts, and live music, making it a vibrant community hub.

For nature enthusiasts, Yuraygir National Park offers stunning coastal walks, diverse wildlife, and secluded beaches. The town’s vibrant fishing industry means fresh seafood is always on the menu, with local restaurants serving up delicious dishes like Yamba prawns. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with the natural beauty and friendly locals, makes Yamba a perfect seaside escape.

Tilba Tilba

Tilba Tilba, and its neighboring village Central Tilba, are heritage-listed gems nestled in the foothills of Gulaga Mountain. These villages are known for their well-preserved 19th-century architecture and vibrant arts scene. A stroll down Central Tilba’s main street feels like stepping back in time, with its charming wooden buildings housing local artisans, craft shops, and cafes.

The nearby Foxglove Spires Gardens is a must-visit, offering beautifully landscaped gardens and a tranquil setting. Gulaga Mountain, sacred to the local Aboriginal people, provides stunning hiking trails and panoramic views. The Tilba Cheese Factory, known for its award-winning cheeses, offers tastings and a glimpse into the cheese-making process. The blend of history, natural beauty, and local craftsmanship makes Tilba Tilba a unique destination.

Milton is a picturesque town that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern sophistication. The town’s heritage buildings, such as the Milton Theatre, now host a variety of performances and events, while the historic courthouse adds to the town’s quaint appeal. The Milton-Ulladulla district is renowned for its local produce, and the farmers' market is a showcase of the region’s best.

Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby Pigeon House Mountain, offering challenging hikes with rewarding views of the coastline and hinterland. The Milton area also boasts beautiful beaches, such as Mollymook Beach, perfect for swimming and surfing. With its vibrant arts scene, gourmet eateries, and stunning natural surroundings, Milton offers a delightful escape.

Bowral, located in the Southern Highlands, is renowned for its gardens, heritage estates, and cultural attractions. The Corbett Gardens, especially during the annual Tulip Time Festival, is a spectacular display of color and floral artistry. Bowral is also home to the Bradman Museum, dedicated to cricket legend Sir Donald Bradman, offering fascinating exhibits for sports enthusiasts.

Historic estates like Retford Park and Milton Park showcase beautiful gardens and elegant architecture. The town’s sophisticated dining scene features local wines and gourmet cuisine, with many restaurants sourcing ingredients from the fertile highlands. Bowral’s cool climate, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage make it a perfect destination year-round.

The Takeaway

New South Wales is home to many small towns that offer unique experiences and breathtaking beauty. From the lush valleys and historic charm to the vibrant arts scenes and stunning natural landscapes, each town provides a distinctive taste of the region's diverse offerings. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, these eight towns are sure to leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of New South Wales.

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Feel new in NSW

Discover the endless feelings a visit to nsw can inspire.

It’s time to feel new again. Pure joy as you wake to the sunrise. Awe as you make it to the snowy peak. A sense of adventure as you motor across red plains. The relief of rejuvenation as you wade into an alpine stream. Connection as you taste native, fragrant leaves. A sense of belonging as you meet friendly locals. Freedom as you dash into the waves. What feelings are you looking to re-discover?

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The pleasure of an unforgettable foodie experience, big smiles as you encounter native animals in the wild, cuddles on a romantic weekend in a tiny cabin or the buzz of an outdoor adventure that all ages will love… there are endless (and exciting) ways to spark joy in NSW. 

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Marvel at rainforests and waterfalls, sunrises and sunsets, Sydney’s most Instagrammable buildings, iconic locations that make you feel small, or a starry outback sky. Wherever you are in NSW, awe-inspiring moments await.

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In NSW, everyone’s welcome. From fabulous events across the state celebrating LGBTQIA+ culture to meeting like-minded folk at a local workshop, create lasting connections and find your tribe with NSW travel experiences that will give you a sense of community. 

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Seek out the thrill of setting off on a new adventure. If extreme sports, wilderness treks through national parks and off-the-beaten-track road trips sound like your kind of holiday, get out of your comfort zone on these action-packed escapades in NSW. 

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The most memorable trips are the ones that take you deeper, and there's no better way to get to know NSW than by connecting with its people and place. Think history tours that bring the past to life, galleries showcasing Aboriginal art, and much more. 

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Want to escape to somewhere wild, wonderful and off-grid? From beach getaways without the crowds to remote stays far from the daily grind and secret Sydney spots you’ll have to yourself, it’s easy to find your freedom in NSW. 

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Short breaks & daytrips from sydney.

Being short on time doesn’t mean you have to miss out on a big adventure. Jump in the car and head out of the city to discover some of NSW’s most remarkable destinations, like the South Coast, Hunter Valley, Blue Mountains, Central Coast and the Hawkesbury.

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From abseiling down a waterfall to learning about bush tucker with an Indigenous guide or getting away from it all at an off-grid stay, NSW offers diverse and compelling destinations and experiences like nowhere else on earth. Start planning your next trip.

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