Things to Do in Sydney

Here are seven reasons to stay right where you are and have a staycation in Sydney:

1. AN ENDLESS FESTIVAL CALENDAR

Great entertainment isn’t hard to find in Sydney. Whether food, music or film is your thing, there are heaps of festivals to enjoy throughout the year. Over the next few months you can sample international cuisine at Good Food Month, catch an indie movie at The Underground Film Festival and check out the Blues and Roots festival in Windsor.

2. WORLD-CLASS VIEWS

Sydney is blessed with one of the most picturesque cityscapes in the world. Well, we think so anyway! But have you forgotten what all the fuss is about? Seen the Opera House and Harbour Bridge one too many times? Why not rekindle your love for Sydney’s famous landmarks with a helicopter flight over the city. You’ll see Sydney and it’s coastal wonders, as you’ve never seen them before.  Depart from a private lounge at Sydney Airport where you can relax with a glass of pre-flight bubbles.

3. DELICIOUS FOOD AND COCKTAILS

Sydney has always played second fiddle to Melbourne in the dining stakes, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of Sydney eateries serving up top-notch dishes and spectacular views.  This summer, waterfront dining should be top of your staycation to-do list and you can’t get closer to the water than Catalina restaurant in Rose Bay. Book a table for a long 3-course lunch and afternoon cocktails at the Veranda Bar.

4. OVER 100 BEACHES TO EXPLORE

Ditch your favourite go-to beach to discover a new sandy spot to spend lazy days during your summer holiday. Nestle into a secluded cove, like Nielson Park or Clontarf, for a day of relaxation. Looking for something more adventurous to do?  Try a new activity at a Sydney beach. Our top picks include an Underwater Scooter Tour of the Harbour at Clovelly or a Stand Up Paddling Boarding session at Manly Wharf.

5. AUSTRALIA'S BEST MARKETS

With Glebe and Kirribilli markets on your doorstep, you don’t have to travel internationally to fill your wardrobe with new clothes. Buy jewellery, clothing and home and giftware direct from emerging designers without a high price tag. Both markets offer entertainment and coffee carts so you can grab a latte and listen to some music once you're shopped-out.

6. NATIONAL PARKS ON YOUR DOORSTEP

There are too many national parks in Sydney’s vicinity to name; escaping the busy city for a bush walk can be a great way to spend a day. If you’re not into hiking, there are other ways to enjoy a day in a national park. Try a self-guided kayak tour through the serene waterways of Ku-ring-gai Chase or take the road less travelled with a 4WD adventure in the Blue Mountains.

7. SPECIAL PLACES TO STAY

Have you ever dreamed of owning your own yacht? Well now you can (for one night, anyway) with an overnight yacht stay from Palm Beach. A luxury yacht is a great alternative to staying in a CBD hotel. Moored at Pittwater, the yacht is complete with a swimming platform, outdoor shower and snorkel gear for a long, lazy day on the water. Take the paddleboat to shore for dinner at one of the many nearby restaurants. We can’t think of a better way to spend a night in Sydney.