Sydney is the capital of New South Wales and one of the largest cities in the nation. It boasts some of the most iconic and photographed landmarks in the world, a magicland of national parks, towering mountains and some eye-catching galleries. Sun-soaked beaches stretch the famous coastline of the city and glittering views of the impressive city skyline come out once the sun fades away. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to spend a holiday or a vacation. Here are some of the top tourist stops around the city to make the most out of your stay!
Cruise Along the Harbour
Cruising is an essential part of any Sydney itinerary, after all it's called the harbour city for a reason. Set sail on a harbour cruise lunch and enjoy freshly prepared food and sparkling drinks in an ambient setting! Team up with your family or friends and choose from a range of cruises including an authentic paddlewheeler, a multi-million dollar catamaran, and a luxury glass boat to witness some of the biggest icons of the city (Opera House, Harbour Bridge and many more) up close! Make use of this opportunity and click some awesome photos set against this unique backdrop before heading inside to feast on a sumptuous array of food and drinks. All the vessels boast fully air-conditioned and contemporary interiors, and a licensed bar onboard to lift your spirits, making the lunch cruise in Sydney Harbour an unmissable experience. Book your tickets today and enjoy a delicious lunch overlooking the stunning city skyline!
Royal Botanic Garden
Often recognised as one of the oldest public gardens in Australia, Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden dates back to 1810 and is a 30-hectare oasis of calm urban jungle. One of the most popular things to do here is the free guided walking tour which will help you learn more about the thriving plant life and the importance of its survival for the native fauna. Needless to say, it will also help you separate your Begonias from your Camellias. Although the coming months herald the peak blooming season for banksias you might find yourself becoming familiar with some of the native species in the Bountiful Banksias tour. Alternatively if it's raining you can head over to the Botanic Gardens Restaurant and warm up with a brunch and a steaming cup of coffee as you watch the rain pour down. It is truly a paradise for nature lovers or even amateuer botanists!
Chinese Garden of Friendship
Right in the heart of Darling Harbour lies an underrated piece of gem, the Chinese Garden of Friendship, which was first opened in 1988. It was initially commissioned to reflect the bond between Sydney and its sister city in China, Guangzhou, and incorporates architectural principles of the yin and yang. An ideal place to visit for culture vultures, the garden features calligraphy, mediaeval carvings and sculptures, along with dragons and other mythological creatures! It will transport you from the city's buzzing sounds and exhaust fumes to a world of tradition and calm! Other highlights of the garden include the Lake of Brightness which is abundant in chubby carp, and hidden treasures like the ancient cycad and the red silk cotton tree. For a more immersive experience, visitors can channel Imperial China, dressing in traditional prince or princess gear, and frolicking around the palaces as you like for a whole day!
Notable Mention:
You don’t need to traverse to the Great Barrier Reef to stumble across Australia’s unique marine life, a snorkel tour in Fairlight Beach would be a fairly equal experience. Head to Manly Dive Centre and check out their Snorkel Safaris which will take you to three different spots for an underwater adventure.
