After your overnight flight on Qantas, most likely you’ll fly over the Sydney Opera House as you land in the morning in Sydney. Head straight to the Opera House and harbour and explore the city. The coastal lifestyle affects everything in this wonderful city. People swim in the rockpools or swimming pools and the harbour is filled with sailboats, kayaks and ferries and some of the city’s best dining takes advantage of harbour and beach views. So to get a feel for the city, start on the water, then take a closer look at the city’s rich cultural heritage, events and arts before getting out of it to the nearby Blue Mountains. 

Stay: At the new boutique hotel QT Sydney and explore this iconic harbour city. The only Sydney hotel to be a member of the exclusive Design Hotels, QT Sydney is set above the State Theatre with a thoroughly restored exterior celebrating the old world appeal. The hotel is a unique designer space that celebrates an eclectic mix of quirky artifacts, bespoke furniture, and a daring use of color and art.

The World’s Most Beautiful Harbour and Beaches 

• Start your trip off right with a walk across the Harbour Bridge – or better yet, climb to the top to get a view of the Sydney skyline.
• Board a boat from King Street Wharf to Manly Beach or take a ferry from Circular Quay and pass the spectacular sails of the Sydney Opera House, and be sure to check out the Manly Aquarium and experience the incredible sea life down under.
• You can’t miss out on a day at Bondi Beach and while you’re there meet the famous Bondi Life Guards or take the Sculptures by the Sea walk along the coastal cliffs.
• Go sailing or kayaking around the harbour’s coastal inlets. 

Cultural Sydney 

• Learn about the local indigenous traditions with a journey to Clark Island to learn about the Aboriginal traditions with the Tribal Warrior tour. 
• Once back in the city set off on foot to where Sydney was founded in the The Rocks. This former convict settlement is now full of old pubs, historic buildings, great museums including the Museum of Contemporary Art and walks.
• In The Rocks, join the new Dreaming tour exploring the area’s Aboriginal history or embark on a shopping or foodie tour. 

The Blue Mountains 

• If you want to get close to nature on your holiday head to Featherdale Wildlife Park to get in some one-on-one time with Australia’s furry locals on your way to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains.
• Let out your adventurous side by canyoning (or as Australians say, abseiling) in the Blue Mountains.
• Don’t forget some time for Rest and Relaxation at Lillianfels Spa before returning back to the city.

Explore more ways to make your trip to Australia spectacular on Australia.com.