Most visitors to Australia begin their adventure in Sydney, the capital of the state of New South Wales. Using this incredible city as a starting point you can discover so much during a trip to New South Wales.
From the iconic structures of the Sydney Opera House and the sprawling Blue Mountains, to the gorgeous beaches and the world famous wineries in the Hunter Valley, there is a lot to see and do. To help you on your way, we’ve listed some of the most epic New South Wales experiences going!
BridgeClimb Sydney
Image Tag: Barangaroo Reserve, Sydney
Image Credit: Destination New South Wales
Climbing the impressive Sydney Harbour Bridge is one experience you can’t skip. As you ascend 134 metres above sea level you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the city. Below, you can see zooming traffic, commuter trains and of course the harbour, and in all directions the city of Sydney laid out for you to see. This 360 degree view of the city and the experience as a whole is breathtaking. Take it from the over 4 million people who have already climbed the bridge! Take on the BridgeClimb Ultimate experience, which allows you to not only traverse the south side of the bridge, but the north too – and then back again! Or take on the Burrawa Climb and get an aboriginal perspective on your climb with a First Nations Storyteller.
Visit the Hunter Valley
Image Tag: Hot Air Ballooning
Image Credit: Destination New South Wales
If you’re into your food and wine, New South Wales is the place to be. But more specifically a trip to the Hunter Valley is a must. As well as enjoying the stunning scenery during your visit, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s Australia’s oldest wine region, so is home to a number of award-winning wineries. But it’s not just wine to look forward to: the Hunter Valley also plays host to food festivals where you can sample the finest local produce from the region. You can also experience a hot air balloon ride while in the area too. Plus, it’s only a two hour drive from Sydney!
Vivid Sydney
Image Tag: Vivid Sydney 2018 #vividsydney
Image Credit: Destination New South Wales
If you’re looking to visit a spectacular cultural festival while in New South Wales, Vivid Sydney is the one to be at. For three weeks every year, the city of Sydney comes to life with light sculptures, live music and interesting seminars. It’s ‘where lights, music, ideas and food intersect.’ You can find a range of light installations scattered around the city. We’re talking Barangaroo, the Harbour Lights, the Sydney Opera House, Carriageworks and so many more! And this year’s festivities include Vivid Food for the first time ever – offering you the chance to experience one of a kind menu creations. Vivid Sydney 2023 is from May 26 to June 17. Need more time to plan your trip? 2024’s Vivid Sydney will be from May 24 to June 15.
Exploring Byron Bay
Image Tag: Cape Byron Lighthouse, Byron Bay
Image Credit: Destination New South Wales
An epic but laid back experience that has to be high on your New South Wales list is Byron Bay. This surfer town has a lot to offer anyone who visits, from beaches, vibrant markets, rainforest and coastal trails. Cape Byron has the Cape Byron Lighthouse and whale watching (from May to November) to keep you busy, and you’ll find yourself captivated by these north coast beaches. Some of the popular choices include Main Beach and the Wategos beaches. Fun fact: Little Wategos beach is Australia’s easternmost beach
Hike in the Blue Mountains
Image Tag: The Three Sisters, Blue Mountains
Image Credit: Destination New South Wales
The Blue Mountains region is an epic place to visit and a must-have experience when in New South Wales. And there are so many ways to explore it. You may opt to hike a section of the Blue Mountains (there are both beginner and expert trail options), see the Three Sisters rock formation from Echo Point Lookout or take a ride on the world’s steepest passenger railway or glass-floored cable car with Scenic World. Oh and don’t miss the impressive Jenolan Caves, too! The opportunities are endless, but one thing is for sure: the scenery will take your breath away.
Discover Sydney’s Beaches
Image Tag: Bondi Beach, Sydney
Image Credit: Destination New South Wales
Sydney is home to some awesome beaches and whilst you’re in New South Wales, you just have to visit some. You’ve got the Eastern Sydney beaches which include the famous Bondi, Coogee and Bronte, which can all be accessed from one long coastal walk. Or you have Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Take a ferry over to relax on Manly Beach or head out a little further to Palm Beach, where you can join the Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk to get fantastic beach and ocean views.
If you want to take in all of Sydney’s beaches and other iconic sights (including the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair), check out the Bondi to Manly walking track. It’s 80km long, so you could tackle the whole thing over a few days, or choose a particular section to walk.