Well-known for its buzzing city life, picturesque views and gorgeous beaches, Sydney is arguably the first city that comes to mind when vacationing in Australia. However, aside from familiar landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, both Sydney and regional New South Wales boast plenty of exciting things to see and do. What’s more, with AirAsia offering promo flights plus hotel stays this May, there’s now even more reason to get excited. If you haven’t yet visited Sydney (but are eagerly waiting to) here is a 5D4N itinerary for an unforgettable Australian adventure.
Day 1
Acquaint yourself with the locals as you discover local farmers markets
There’s no better way to take in the sights and sounds of Sydney than by paying a visit to a local farmers market. And the best part? Visiting them is absolutely FREE!What to do:
- Sample seasonal produce from NSW, purchase artisan breads, taste boutique wines, and learn firsthand from farmers about the stories behind their produce at the Carriageworks Farmers Market (every Saturday 8am – 1pm). Psst! there are even occasional demonstrations by celebrated chefs showcasing seasonal produce.
- Grab a bite at The Rocks Friday Foodie Market (every Friday 9am – 3pm) or The Rocks Markets (every Saturday and Sunday 10am – 5pm) and find the perfect souvenir for a loved one as you browse through various hand made products and clothing.
- Enjoy live music, delectable treats and much more at the Cambridge Markets EQ (every Wednesday and Saturday 8am – 2pm).
Satisfy your seafood cravings at the Sydney Fish Market
Perfect for seafood lovers, the Sydney Fish Market is THE place to visit if you’re craving fresh seafood. The market is open from 7am to 4pm daily except Christmas Day.What to expect:
- The market is the largest in the southern hemisphere offering fresh seafood cooked right before your eyes! Prices are pretty affordable too!
- A haven for seafood lovers featuring a wide selection of seafood including giant lobsters, oysters, salmon, crab, and many others.
- Sushi bar and restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating for you to savour mouthwatering dishes right by the bay.
Head out to the Hunter Valley and spend the day discovering the many activities the region has to offer
Being the oldest wine-producing region in Australia and just a 2-hour drive from Sydney, the Hunter Valley is ideal for anyone looking to trade Sydney’s CBD for a laid-back countryside. We also recommend spending the night here so you won’t miss out on anything.- Dine at renowned restaurants offering an array of dining options while you overlook breathtaking vistas.
- Spot kangaroos, explore hiking trails, kayak through gushing rivers in Wollemi National Park and go on a self-guided heritage walk at Wollombi to learn about the village’s history.
- Accommodations are pretty affordable too! If you’re aren’t looking to break the bank, Potters Hotel & Brewery and Hunter Valley Travellers Rest Motel are our top picks due to their great location.
- Another value for money resort you should check out is the Hunter Valley Resort which is well known for its exciting activities such as its vineyard tours. The facilities are noteworthy too which includes an on-site brewhouse and wine theatre. Oh, they even have a 3D2n / 2D1N train package, perfect for anyone who’d prefer to travel to the Hunter Valley by rail.
Day 2
Go hot air ballooning in the morning and head back to Sydney in the afternoon to check out cool cafes
Sunrises in the Hunter Valley are breathtaking and there’s no better way to experience it than by going on a hot air balloon ride.What to expect:
- Rides typically last about an hour offering picturesque views of the landscape below.
- You can even book family packages which include photos of your ride, a celebratory breakfast, and champagne at Peterson House.
- When you arrive back in Sydney, take the opportunity to go cafe-hopping checking out Insta-worthy cafes such as the Concrete Jungle Cafe, Speedos Cafe, and Cuckoo Callay. Psst… if you love cakes, be sure you give the strawberry watermelon cake at Black Star Pastry a try!
Enjoy the sights of Vivid Sydney 2019 at night
If you’re travelling to Sydney during the months of May and June, then this eye-catching event should be at the top of your list!What to expect:
- Taking place for 23 nights between 24 May and 15 June, Vivid Sydney is a multi-award winning festival of light, music, and ideas featuring dazzling light displays and music events. What’s more, there are even hands-on workshops and engaging talks for you to participate in!
- Travellers will be able to enjoy unobstructed views of the Vivid lights from the Sydney Opera House, Hickson Road Reserve, Dawes Point, and Darling Harbour.
- You can even go on the Vivid Light Walk which stretches from The Rocks all the way to the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney passing by spots such as the Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay. The entire walk is 3km long featuring over 50 light installations and projections. It’s also F.O.C.
- Book a cruise or get a bird’s eye view of Vivid Sydney’s sparkling city lights from the summit of the Sydney Harbour Bridge by going on the Vivid Climb.
- In partnership with Pixar Animation Studios, heritage roadway Argyle Cut will be illuminated with the captivating characters of Pixar films including behind the scenes artwork detailing the evolution of animation.
- Catch breakthrough performers and music leaders such as The Cure, FKA Twigs and many more! More information can be found here. Do note that performances are subject to ticket availability.
Day 3
Take a day trip to Port Stephens
Located just 2 and a half hours north of Sydney, Port Stephens is a beautiful beach getaway offering loads of thrilling activities perfect for adventure seekers.What to do:
- Take the Tomaree Head Summit walk and be rewarded with a gorgeous panoramic view from the summit. If you own a pair of binoculars, don’t forget to bring them along as you can spot dolphins and whales in the bay below.
- Go on a cruise to spectate humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins as they leap out of the water right in front of your eyes! Note that whale migration season is from late-May lasting till November. Thus, travelling to Sydney during the months of May and June would be perfect if you’re interested in catching Vivid Sydney and whale watch during your trip.
- Get your adrenaline pumping by quad biking or sand-boarding at Stockton Sand Dunes, the largest moving coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere!
- Go kayaking or stand up paddle boarding at Shoal Bay. If you’re still craving for more, you can even check out Bagnalls Beach and kayak there too!
Day 4
Make your way to the Blue Mountains National Park and immerse yourself in nature
Located about an hour and a half from Sydney CBD, the Blue Mountains National Park offers a welcome respite from everyday city life.What to expect:
- Captivating mountains, towering waterfalls, and picturesque lookout points such as the iconic Three Sisters rock formation, Wentworth Falls, and Govetts Leap.
- Hiking trails and thrilling rides such as Scenic World’s Railway, Skyway, and Cableway offering breathtaking views of the landscape.
- Heritage walks, Aboriginal art galleries, and adventure activities ranging from canyoning and abseiling to mountain biking — there’s something for everyone in the Blue Mountains.
Day 5
Go on a scenic morning stroll at Bondi before your flight back home
Featuring sweeping white-sand, postcard views, and curling waves, Bondi beach is arguably one of the most iconic beaches in the world. Spending a relaxing stroll here on your last day in Sydney is the perfect way to close your grand Australian adventure on a high note.What to do:
- Traverse the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk which is world-famous for its breathtaking views and scenic swimming spots. The entire clifftop trail is over six kilometres long featuring picturesque picnic spots, emerald pools, and links six of Sydney’s most famous beaches.
- Delve into Bondi’s famed dining scene at renowned cafes and bars such as Porch and Parlour, Lush on Bondi, Coogee Pavilion and North Bondi Fish.
- Snorkel at Gordon’s Bay or go lap swimming at iconic ocean pools such as Bondi Icebergs Pool, Wylie’s Baths, and Bronte Baths.
Well, if we’ve piqued your wanderlust and got you buzzing about this beautiful Australian destination, then you’d be glad to know that AirAsia is offering insane promo flights plus hotel stays in Sydney!
Deets below:
Member one-way fare: RM499
Flight + 5D4N Hotel Stay from RM1,799 (tax included)
Travel period: Now till 2 June 2020
Premium Flatbed (one way): RM1,890
Hurry up though because this promo is only available till 19 May 2019!
Ready to begin your exciting Australian adventure? Find out more about this exciting promo here.