Your one-stop guide to making the most of your visit

Planning A Trip To Sydney

Planning a visit to Sydney? Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, this page brings together everything you need—from when to travel and how to get around, to budgeting tips and suggested itineraries. Use the links below to dive deeper into each topic.

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Before you leave

Getting here

Money

Before you leave

Planning a little ahead saves big headaches later. Even if you’ve travelled extensively, Sydney has its quirks.

  • Book major events: NYE harbour venues and Vivid Sydney (May-June) sell out months ahead. For NYE, book by August.
  • Popular attractions: Sydney Opera House tours and Bridgeclimb often fill up – book these first.
  • Weather reality: Pack layers for mild winters with cold evenings, and sunscreen year-round – UV levels surprise
  • Transport prep: Children need Opal cards for reduced fares – adult credit cards won’t work for kid’s prices.
  • Day trips: Keep a day free for the Blue Mountains or Hunter Valley – both need full days.

Insider Note: Hotel prices spike during major events. Book six months ahead or consider neighbourhoods like Potts Point or Surry Hills where rates stay more consistent.

Carriageworks market

Decide when to visit

Hyatt Regency Sydney overlooks Darling Harbour on the city side

Decide where to stay

Getting here

Sydney Airport is convenient but can feel overwhelming if you’re not prepared.

  • Train vs rideshare: Train is fastest to CBD in peak times. For two or more people, rideshare can be cheaper.
  • Early arrival tip: Avoid 6-7am arrivals when immigration queues are longest. Mid-morning arrivals face shorter waits.
  • Rideshare zones: Uber picks up right at International arrivals exit; Didi use the general rideshare area 5 minutes away.
  • Jetlag strategy: Stay outdoors your first afternoon – our suggested Botanic Gardens walk helps reset your body clock.

Insider Note: Pre-booked shuttles or private transfer services are cost-effective for families or groups with lots of luggage. They can offer child safety seats and they’ll drop you at your hotel door.

Sydney Central Station indicator board country trains

Transport Guide

Sydney International Airport food court in departures post immigration

Airport Guide

Money and practicalities

Sydney can be expensive, but knowing where and when to spend helps your budget go further

  • Daily spend reality: Budget $120–$150 per person for mid-range travel (meals, attractions, transport).
  • Happy hours: Many pubs and bars offer daily specials with $6–$8 beers and $10-12 cocktails from 4–6pm.
  • Coffee culture: Sydney coffee is strong and serious. Skip Starbucks — go for a local café in the city, Marrickville or Newtown.
  • Grocery tip: Supermarkets are dotted across the city. Woolworths Metro and Coles Express are smaller versions
A table of Turkish food

Dining Deals

Coffee Culture

Ask a Local

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