Australia
Opera House Sydney
Sydney
Sydney, the capital of New South Wales and one of Australia’s largest cities, is world-famous for the Sydney Opera House, a masterpiece of architecture with its unique sail-like design. Bustling Darling Harbour and the lively Circular Quay are central to waterside life, surrounded by landmarks such as the Harbour Bridge and the renowned Royal Botanic Garden. For breathtaking panoramic views of the city and suburbs, the Skywalk at Sydney Tower is a must-visit.
Beyond its skyline, Sydney offers exciting attractions like the Sydney Aquarium, Taronga Zoo, and Wildlife Sydney Zoo, home to kangaroos, koalas, sharks, and snakes. Pyrmont’s Sydney Fish Market is another highlight, where visitors can watch live seafood auctions and sample freshly prepared dishes at its many restaurants. The city’s dining scene is equally diverse, from the flavors of Chinatown in Haymarket to authentic Italian cuisine in Leichhardt.
No trip to Sydney is complete without a scenic ferry ride across the sparkling harbour. These journeys take you to world-famous beaches like Bondi and Manly, both loved by surfers and sun-seekers alike, offering the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Queen Chow: Typhoon Shelter Crab
This famous dish was first created in the fishing ports of Wanchi, Hong Kong. During typhoons, fishermen sheltered at the docks and passed the time by experimenting with new ways to cook their catch—giving birth to the Typhoon Shelter Crab. Queen Chow’s head chef, Patrick Friesen, says there are only two authentic places in Hong Kong to try the best versions of this dish, and now Queen Chow makes the third—though far from any Chinese fishing port, it’s served at the newly refurbished Queen Victoria Hotel on Enmore Road.
Bistro Guillaume: Whiting Colbert, Pomme Pont Neuf
Leave it to Guillaume Brahimi to transform one of the most technical French classics into his own take on Australia’s beloved fish and chips. At his CBD brasserie, Bistro Guillaume, the Whiting Colbert is carefully deboned from the tail—giving it that elegant curled presentation—then crumbed, cooked to perfection, and paired with twice-cooked, chunky ‘Pomme Pont Neuf’ chips. The dish is finished with a slice of beurre maître d’hôtel, a compound butter made with parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Rosewater meringue with watermelon and pistachio
Sydney’s soaring summer temperatures inspired Mercado head chef Nathan Sasi to create this refreshing crowd-favorite dessert during the Christmas break. Wanting something lighter to balance a rich menu, he combined some of his favorite fruits into what has become the perfect seasonal treat. The dish begins with a crisp meringue base, hollowed in the center and filled with mascarpone. Watermelon balls are then vacuum-packed with rosewater and sugar syrup, placed on top of the meringue, and sprinkled with roasted pistachios. To finish, the dessert is paired with rosewater and strawberry sorbet—delivering a cool, floral, and fruity flavor that has quickly become one of Mercado’s best-selling creations.
Climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge
Experience one of Australia’s most iconic adventures by climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and enjoying breathtaking views from 440 feet (134 meters) above the harbour. Choose from several options, including the classic 3.5-hour climb in the morning or afternoon, or opt for the magical experience of climbing at dawn, twilight, or night. For those short on time, a 1.5-hour Sampler Climb takes you halfway, while the 2.25-hour Express Climb offers a faster-paced ascent to the top. With group sizes limited to just 12–14 participants, every climb is guided by an experienced professional who ensures your journey is safe, fun, and informative. Along the way, you’ll capture unforgettable views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, the Blue Mountains, and beyond. Whether you want a relaxed pace or a more energetic challenge, there’s a climb option to suit every adventurer.
Cableway
Leave behind the busy streets of Sydney and spend a day surrounded by the World Heritage–listed beauty of the Blue Mountains. Take in sweeping views of eucalyptus forests, discover Aboriginal legends tied to ancient rock formations, and wander through the charming village of Leura. Spot native wildlife like koalas and kangaroos at Featherdale Wildlife Park, and for an added thrill, upgrade your experience with a ride on the Scenic World cableway or railway.
Hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour
Discover the best of Sydney and Bondi Beach with a flexible hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour aboard an open-top double-decker bus. Take in panoramic views as you ride between 34 convenient stops, including famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Darling Harbour. Simply hop off whenever you’d like to explore more, then rejoin the tour at your own pace. Choose between a 24-hour or 48-hour ticket for the ultimate flexibility.
Highlights
- Explore Sydney and Bondi Beach with a hop-on hop-off bus pass
- Enjoy open-air views from the top deck of the bus
- Stop at iconic sites like the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Darling Harbour
- Relax at Bondi Beach and dip your toes in the ocean
- Learn about Sydney’s history and culture with pre-recorded onboard commentary
- Flexible tickets valid for 24 or 48 hours