Your One Week Sydney & Surrounding Areas Travel Guide

Exploring the City of Sydney

Home to iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney offers incredible urban adventures. Spend a few days exploring the best of what this vibrant coastal city has to offer.

A Day of Iconic Sights

Wake up early and head straight for the Sydney Harbour where you’ll find postcard-perfect views everywhere you look. Start your day climbing to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge for sweeping panoramas of the water and skyline. Then wander down to the Royal Botanic Garden to see native flora and take a relaxing stroll. In the afternoon, marvel at the architecture of the Sydney Opera House both from the outside and inside during a performance. End your day watching the sun go down over the harbour from a romantic dinner cruise.

Culture and Creativity in the Rocks

Discover the historic district of The Rocks where Sydney was founded. Browse outdoor markets selling local handicrafts before stopping for coffee at a tucked away cafe. Wander cobblestone laneways dotted with antique shops and galleries. Make your way to the Museum of Contemporary Art in the afternoon to see cutting-edge Australian art in a spectacular harbourside setting. Cap off the day with live music and dinner in trendy Surry Hills.

Nature Escapes Within the City

Explore the leafy oasis of the Royal Botanic Garden and feast your eyes on over 10,000 plant species. Next, walk along Farm Cove to admire indigenous flora and enjoy city views. Have a picnic lunch under shady trees before meandering through Sydney Olympic Park dotted with lakes and gardens sculpted after the 2000 summer games. In the evening, take a refreshing dip at the historic North Sydney Olympic Pool with gorgeous harbour views all around.

Coastal Adventure in Manly

Just a 30-minute ferry ride from downtown Sydney lies the charming beachside suburb of Manly. Spend a relaxing day escaping the crowds along the coast.

Manly’s Scenic Coastal Walk

Kick off your beach day with a morning stroll along Manly’s scenic Collaroy Foreshore Walk. Winding alongside the sparkling waters, it’s the perfect way to breathe in fresh sea air. Stop for photos of iconic Narrabeen Lagoon along the way. Have lunch at a beach cafe overlooking Shelly Beach where azure waters invite swimming and sunbathing.

Manly’s Historic QVB and Quaint Harbour

In the afternoon, explore Manly’s charming high street lined with boutiques, cafes and the historic Manly Queen Victoria Building. Browse its artisan shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. Watch the colorful Manly Ferry come and go at the terminal, the gateway to Sydney city. Cap off your day with an ice cream in Manly Corso before catching the last ferry back as the sun goes down.

Tranquil Beauty of the Blue Mountains

Only a short drive from Sydney, the lush Blue Mountains offer tranquil escapes amidst dramatic sandstone cliffs and eucalyptus forest. Spend a couple days recharging in nature.

Scenic One-Day Hike in Blue Mountains National Park

Explore over 680,000 hectares of protected wilderness on a scenic one-day hike. Admire panoramic views of the Jamison Valley from Govetts Leap Lookout and soak in the peaceful landscape. Have a picnic lunch by a babbling creek before trekking back to your accommodation energized by fresh mountain air.

Luxurious Mountain Retreat at Hydro Majestic Hotel

Treat yourself to a memorable stay at the grand Hydro Majestic Hotel dating back to the early 1900s. Soak in an outdoor mineral spa with views of Megalong Valley. Indulge in afternoon tea served with scones, jam and cream in the elegant parlour overlooking pristine gardens. After a restful night, fuel up for more hiking with their bountiful breakfast spread. Your Blue Mountains escape will leave you recharged in body and soul.

Wineries and Coastal Beauty of Jervis Bay

A 3.5 hour drive south of Sydney lies the idyllic Jervis Bay region perfect for a weekend getaway.

Winery Hopping in the Shoalhaven Region

Explore the bucolic Shoalhaven countryside dotted withfamily-run wineries. Stop at top-rated Bannisters situated on a hilltop withdreamy coastline vistas for award-winning chardonnay and pinot noir. Also visit boutique producer Four Winds for wine and cheese pairings surrounded by rolling vineyards. Cap off the day sipping prosecco on the lawn overlooking Greenwell Point.

Untouched Beauty of Hyams Beach

On your last day, have an indulgent breakfast in the historic town of Berry. Then wander 15 minutes down the coast to admire the powdery white sand and crystal azure waters of Hyams Beach acclaimed as the world’s whitest beach. Go for a refreshing dip before starting your journey back to Sydney recharged. Your week discovering Sydney and surrounding regions has come to an end. But Australia offers so much more beauty - plan your next multi-week adventure Down Under!