Sydney is the no.1 destination in Australia for international visitors thanks to its iconic sights like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Climbing the latter brings it to life, creating a memorable experience sure to make the holiday highlights reel. Dig a little deeper and you’ll find trendy, walkable neighbourhoods like Chippendale, Newtown or Surry Hills that boast new café scenes. You'll also find a plethora of exciting restaurants and unique bars which are prevalent in these neighbourhoods.

Want to see Sydney from a different perspective? Walking the 6km coastal path between Coogee and Bondi beaches is a must-do for stunning coastal views. Hidden gems can be found throughout New South Wales and not just its buzzing capital. Dorrigo National Park, located just an hour from Coffs Harbour, offers a plethora of walking trails to explore the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest.

For many, a trip to Australia is synonymous with the opportunity to view unique wildlife indigenous to this amazing country. While Sydney's Taronga Zoo is a must-visit, venture further into New South Wales for endless opportunities to spot wallabies, kangaroos and wombats in the wild. In the coastal town of Port Stephens, dolphins can be spotted year round and for those visiting between May and November, keep your eyes peeled for the migrating humpback whales. Halfway between Sydney and the bohemian streets of Byron Bay you’ll find the laidback town of Port Macquarie. Head to the local Koala Hospital and learn about its impressive rehabilitation and conservation efforts before wildlife-spotting on one of the local coastal walks.

If you’re short on time, make sure to include the Blue Mountains on your itinerary for outstanding landscapes and activities. The most recognisable viewport, the Three Sisters Rock Formation, can be admired at The Lookout Echo Point, a peaceful place to dine and drink overlooking this iconic view.

For those looking for something special, we’d recommend a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Lord Howe Island. This secluded destination shaped by volcanoes, coral reefs and lush rainforests is approximately a 2 hour flight from Sydney. 

New South Wales’ food scene is second to none and sure to give you plenty of outstanding, new epicurean experiences. From Sydney’s world-class restaurants and Australia’s Oyster Coast to the farm-to-plate dining and local farmers’ markets within the state’s hinterland – you will not be disappointed. What’s more, with 14 different wine regions you won’t be short of new tipples to try. After all, the Hunter Valley in New South Wales is the birthplace of Australian wine with vineyards dating back to the first European settlers. With more than 150 cellar doors, the Hunter Valley is not only Australia’s oldest wine region, but it’s undeniably one of the best. 

For a sampling of organic produce, head to Byron Bay where coastal cafés and restaurants are a favourite for locals and travellers alike. Or head into Byron’s hinterland which boasts gin distilleries and organic produce markets with a backdrop of lush countryside.

Witness Sydney at it’s very best by visiting between 23 May and 14 June 2025 for Vivid Sydney, an annual celebration of immersive light installations and performances by local and international musicians showcasing creativity and innovation. Lovers of art should visit the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre located just north of Byron Bay in the beautiful Tweed Valley. Here you’ll find esteemed work from regional, national and international artists. 

New cultural experiences abound, 50-min drive from Byron Bay explore the new Gidjuum Gulganyi walking route across the ancient lands of the Bundjalung Nation, or hop onto a quad bike adjacent to Stockton Beach north of Newcastle and discover the Worimi Conservation Lands to learn about indigenous culture from an Aboriginal guide – the choice is yours in New South Wales.

For more inspiration take a look at our New South Wales holidays page.