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Biennale of Sydney - Rozelle

Plan your trip to the Biennale of Sydney at White Bay Power Station in Rozelle from Saturday 9 March to Sunday 10 June. Buses run regularly to the venue.

Start daily 10:00 | Finish Monday to Wednesday 15:00 | Finish Thursday to Sunday 16:00

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Plan your trip to the Sydney Kidz Fest at the Entertainment Quarter from Saturday 13 to Sunday 28 April. Light rail services run regularly to Moore Park, a short walk across to the EQ Precinct.

Start each day 9:30 | Finish Tuesday to Saturday 17:00 | Finish Sunday 16:00

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Plan your trip to the Caravan Camping Holiday Supershow at Rosehill Gardens Racecourse from Tuesday 16 to Sunday 21 April

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From Monday 22 April until late 2024, Greenwich Point Wharf will close for approximately eight months for accessibility upgrade work.

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Blenheim Beach, Jervis Bay, New South Wales © Destination NSW

12-day road trip through New South Wales

Venture beyond landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach, and you’ll be rewarded with world-class wineries, stunning white-sand beaches, and once-in-a-lifetime animal encounters.

By Alissa Jenkins

Its icons are incredible, but  New South Wales  offers much more than the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Driving north from  Sydney , this 12-day circuit takes you to some of Australia’s most beloved beach destinations, across to vibrant wine-producing regions, into ancient forests and south to dazzling white-sand beaches before looping back up to Sydney, the Harbour City.

What to expect

• Swim with wild dolphins in beautiful Port Stephens
• Sample world-class wines from New South Wales’ most renowned wineries
• Explore the Blue Mountain’s dramatic canyons and Jurassic rainforest
• Time: 12 days
• Distance: 1,800 kilometres (1,118 miles)
• Transport: car
• Nearest major city: Sydney
• Price: $$$$

Day 1: Sydney to Newcastle

The Boathouse Palm Beach, Sydney, New South Wales © Filippo Rivetti, Destination NSW

Did you know?

The waves at Merewether Beach are so good, it hosts an international surf competition, Surfest , every year.

Depart Sydney early and drive for an hour northeast to Palm Beach , situated at the top of a long peninsula and surrounded by clear waters and leafy, mansion-studded streets. At the far end of the beach, take the 800-metre (0.5-mile) walking trail to  Barrenjoey Lighthouse and lightkeeper’s cottages for panoramic views over Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park , before lunch at local favourite,  The Boathouse Palm Beach .

Once you’ve eaten, set the GPS for the 2.5-hour drive via the M1 to Newcastle , Australia’s second-oldest city. See why it’s a world-famous surfing destination with a swim at  Merewether Beach , or skip the waves at heritage-listed ocean pool,  Bogey Hole , before a Mediterranean-inspired dinner at popular seaside restaurant  Rustica . Stay overnight at Newcastle’s award-winning  The Lucky Hotel , a historic, renovated pub home to 30 boutique rooms with modern furnishings and luxury bedding.

Day 2: Newcastle to Port Stephens

Sand Dune Adventures at Stockton Beach, Port Stephens, New South Wales © Tourism Australia

Kick-start the day with family-friendly fun at  TreeTop Adventure Park , set among the Australian bush about 30 minutes west of Newcastle. Here, you can climb, weave and fly through the tree tops on self-guided rope courses and zip lines.

After your feet are back in solid ground, continue to drive an hour northeast to the stunning seaside destination of Port Stephens , renowned for its long sandy beaches and the vast  Stockton Sand Dunes — the largest moving dunes in the southern hemisphere. Spend the afternoon on a sand dune safari, which you can experience via 4WD or quad bike tour, or try sand boarding as you surf down the massive 40-metre (130-feet) high dunes.

At night, stay at  The Anchorage Hotel & Spa in Port Stephens, with a range of luxurious, nautical-inspired suites, as well as two waterfront restaurants that showcase locally-sourced produce.

Day 3: Port Stephens to Hunter Valley

Nelson Bay, Port Stephens, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Begin the day with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure — swimming with wild dolphins in the beautiful Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park. With wetsuits, masks and snorkels provided, as well as a light breakfast, guests also have the option to stay dry and watch these magical creatures from the boat or climb into the water for a profound yet playful wildlife encounter.

Back on land, drive 90 minutes west to one of Australia’s leading wine regions, the Hunter Valley . Renowned for producing excellent semillon and chardonnay, spend the afternoon driving or cycling between the valley’s prominent cellar doors, taste testing the talents of winemaking heavyweights like Audrey Wilkinson ,  Harkham Wines , and  Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard . For those who prefer beer or spirits,  Ironbark Hill Brewhouse and  Hunter Distillery are also worth a visit. You can also enjoy fine dining and boutique accommodation at many of the Hunter’s wineries, such as  Bimbadgen ,  Tinonee Vineyard Estate and  Whispering Brook .

Day 4: Hunter Valley to Mudgee

Cheese and charcuterie, Mudgee, New South Wales © James Horan, Destination NSW

Before you leave Mudgee, stop by High Valley for a cheese tasting and some delicious edible souvenirs. 

Pack your binoculars and a picnic of Hunter Valley produce to drive 2.5 hours west to  Lees Pinch lookout in the picturesque  Goulburn River National Park . Accessible via an easy one-kilometre (0.6-mile) walking track, there are viewing areas that take in the lush forest, flowing river and sandstone gorge below. Keep watch for native wildlife such as wallabies, wombats, and birds of prey soaring above.

After lunch, continue driving one hour southwest to the charming colonial township of Mudgee , another one of New South Wales’ great winemaking regions. Here, summer is prime time for cherry picking at Mudgee’s delightful  Roth Family Orchard , where you can spend the afternoon picking your own fruit.

In the evening, reserve a table at the award-winning  Zin House restaurant , and enjoy a memorable dinner overlooking vineyards and the restaurant’s organic garden, where much of the produce is grown. Sample more of the region’s best wines from the cobblestone courtyard of  Alby & Esthers wine bar, then walk just ten minutes to Mudgee’s stylish  Perry Street Hotel , with 13 modern suites available.

Day 5: Mudgee to Orange

Vineyard, Orange, New South Wales © Taste Orange

Start the morning with a 2.5-hour drive south to Orange , also popular among travellers for its impressive wine industry and abundance of food producers – don’t miss  Patina ,  Philip Shaw and  Swinging Bridge wineries.

If you’d rather spend your day outdoors, explore the mysterious Borenore Caves , 20 minutes west of Orange. There are easy walking trails around the Tunnel Cave and Arch Cave, just a short walk from the Borenore picnic area, where you can take in these unusual rock formations and their black, orange, and yellow striped markings.

Next, sample Orange’s delicious dining scene with a special dinner at the eminent  Lolli Redini restaurant, famed for its Italian and French-influenced menu. Afterwards, relax at  de Russie Boutique Hotel , with beautifully-appointed suites promising plush bedding and modern amenities.

Day 6: Orange to Katoomba

Scenic World's aerial cable car, Katoomba, Blue Mountains, New South Wales © Scenic World

Venture two hours east into the heart of Australia’s iconic Blue Mountains , arriving at Katoomba. Surrounded by plunging canyons and awe-inspiring rock formations, see this awesome landscape in all its glory at  Scenic World . Board the  Scenic Railway , the steepest passenger railway in the world, and descend into the spectacular Jamison Valley in a glass-bottomed carriage. At the bottom, stroll the 2.4-kilometre (1.5-mile)  Scenic Walkway , taking you on an elevated boardwalk through Jurassic rainforest. On the return trip, glide between cliff tops, suspended 270 metres (885 feet) above ancient ravines, on the Scenic Skyway . With 360-degree views, see renowned local landmarks such as Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters rock formation, and beyond.

For a more soothing afternoon, enjoy high tea at  The Hydro Majestic Hotel — a revitalised historic property, boasting Art Deco architecture and magnificent views over the Megalong Valley. You can also stay overnight in one of 67 regal guest rooms that combine the hotel’s glamorous past with modern comforts.

Day 7: Katoomba to Bilpin

Hillbilly Cider, Bilpin, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Follow the scenic roads that weave north from Katoomba to the  Blue Mountains Botanic Garden . Take a free guided tour around the 28 hectares (69 acres) of breathtaking, cool-climate gardens, or explore on your own. Continue driving a further 20 minutes to the fruit-growing village of Bilpin, where you can stop at  Bilpin Springs Orchard and pick your own assortment of fresh apples, oranges, pears, peaches and plums — juicy snacks for the day ahead. Don't miss a stop at  Hillbilly Cider , which serves up simple ciders made with Bilpin apples in a quaint shed overlooking the orchards.

Next, drive an hour north into the inspiring wilderness of World Heritage-listed  Wollemi National Park . Home to spectacular canyons, towering cliffs, wild rivers and tranquil forests, there are many bushwalks to explore, such as  Bob Turners Track . This six-kilometre (3.7-mile) loop takes you along the beautiful Colo River, where you can cool off with a swim. Then finish the day with a rejuvenating stay in one of the cottages at  Rustic Spirit in Kurrajong Heights, or treat the whole family to an elegant farmhouse getaway at  Suzarosa in Berambing.

Family road tripping on the South Coast

Day 8: Bilpin to Bowral

Green Lane, Bowral, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Farewell the majestic Blue Mountains and drive two hours south to the sophisticated centre of the Southern Highlands , Bowral. Home to picturesque gardens and popular wineries, Bowral was also the home of legendary Australian cricket batsman, Sir Donald Bradman. Visit the  Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame , which not only celebrates ‘The Don’, who is still widely regarded as the greatest batsman of all time, but also features interactive exhibits, significant memorabilia, the origins of cricket, and how the game has evolved over time.

Spend the rest of the afternoon trawling the antique shops, galleries, and speciality stores that adorn Bowral’s town centre, including  Dirty Jane’s and Lancelot Hill Antiques.

For dinner, head to Harry's on Green Lane to sample their delicious menu with local Southern Highland wine. Suitably full, retire at one of Bowral’s many dreamy stays, including  Peppers Craigieburn or  The Hidden Door Bowral .

Day 9: Bowral to Canberra

National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © VisitCanberra

After a wholesome breakfast at  Raw & Wild , drive two hours southwest to Australia’s innovative capital city, Canberra . A cosmopolitan mix of world-class museums, gourmet dining precincts and kangaroo-dotted reserves, there’s no shortage of attractions to visit. Among them is the vast  Lake Burley Griffin in the city’s centre, with more than 40 kilometres (25 miles) of shoreline to walk or cycle around.

Spend the afternoon perusing your choice of incredible national landmarks overlooking the lake, including the home of Australian politics,  Parliament House , and the  National Gallery of Australia , with 150,000 artworks and counting. Families will especially love  Questacon , housing more than 200 interactive exhibits relating to science and technology.

Stay overnight at the uber contemporary  East Hotel , situated moments from  Manuka Oval — Canberra’s premier cricket venue.

Day 10: Canberra to Jervis Bay

Picnic by Hyams Beach Hampers, Jervis Bay, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Depart the nation’s capital early for a 2.5-hour drive east to the stunning seaside wonderland of Jervis Bay . Stop in Huskisson for lunch at local institution,  Pilgrims Vegetarian Café , serving generously-sized dishes that are equal parts healthy and tasty. Then visit Murrays Beach , known as the jewel in the Booderee National Park for good reason. The pure white sand and clear water are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. 

Alternatively, join a dolphin or whale watching cruise with Jervis Bay Wild . The waters of the bay are abundant in sea life, so you're likely to spot pods of playful dolphins and humpback whales as they splash and breach. Whale migration season runs from mid-May to mid-November.

Afterwards, retreat to the romantic  Hyams Beach Seaside Cottages , or select a coastal escape to suit from  JB Beach Houses .

Day 11: Jervis Bay to Wollongong

Kiama Blowhole, South Coast, New South Wales © Murray Vanderveer, Destination NSW

Journey 50 minutes north through rolling green hills to the heritage town of Berry . Brunch on local, seasonal produce at the rustic Salmon and Co Eatery, and don’t leave town without collecting dessert from the famous  Berry Donut Van . Next, follow the Princes Highway 20 minutes north to laidback Kiama , where you can take in the powerful  Kiama Blowhole , a sea-cliff cavern that spouts seawater 20 metres (65 feet) into the air, or refresh with a swim in the nearby ocean pool .

Continuing north, drive a further 40 minutes to Wollongong, with an impressive array of stunning beaches, acclaimed restaurants, and chic city bars. From the laidback  Illawarra Brewery  and the intimate wine bar at  Mia Mia  to the oceanfront views and exquisite cocktails at  Pepe’s on the beach in North Wollongong, there’s no shortage of night-time entertainment. Stay close to the action at  Novotel Wollongong Northbeach (right above Pepe’s), with spacious, light-filled rooms just steps from the beach.

Day 12: Wollongong to Sydney

Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Finish your road trip on a high (literally) with  Skydive Sydney-Wollongong , where you'll enjoy a scenic plane ride before you make the leap from around 14,000 feet up, and serenely skydive over the coastal surrounds before landing on Wollongong’s beloved North Beach.

Afterwards, enjoy an impeccable breakfast and beach views at local favourite,  Diggies café. Then begin the last leg back to Sydney, taking the spectacular  Grand Pacific Drive route, which includes 140 kilometres (87 miles) of coastal scenery and snippets of the Royal National Park . The highlight is the incredible  Sea Cliff Bridge , 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Wollongong, which curves around towering cliffs while suspended 665 metres (2,181 feet) above the ocean.

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• New South Wales

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NSW Travel Guide

Why visit nsw.

NSW is home to more Australians than any other state. The state offers more diversity than any of its neighbours; there is a real outback, the country’s highest snowfields, a world-famous harbour and, of course, the much loved east coast beaches. You probably already have Sydney on your list, but there is so much more to NSW. When you begin to plan your itinerary, consider these facts:

• 870 national parks and reserves to wander
• 2137 km of coastline
• Six UNESCO World Heritage areas
• Australia’s oldest wine region
• a true red dirt outback and all the great characters that go with it.

So let’s start exploring NSW and see what takes your fancy.

Regions in NSW

You could easily spend a year exploring the many towns of NSW; however, most travellers stick to the coast. However, there is so much to see, including the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley and outback!

The main regions of NSW are:

• Blue Mountains
• Central Coast
• North Coast Region
• New England
• Central NSW
• Outback NSW
• Snowy Mountains
• South Coast Region

There is enough variety in the state to keep you busy for years’ worth of holidays.

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Nsw travel planning.

Our NSW travel guide will help you decide which region, town and cities in New South Wales you should visit on your next trip. We cover the basics of planning a trip and give you a quick rundown on the main tourist regions and the most popular things to do in Sydney and the states other key towns.

How to get to NSW

International airport.

New South Wales has one international airport, Kingsford Smith, which is in Mascot in the city’s south east. A second international airport is under construction at Badgerys Creek to the west of the city.

Key Domestic airports

There are small airports around the state; Rex  Airlines  service 18 of them if you need to get somewhere in a hurry.

The two main airports are:

• Sydney International – three terminals, one international and two domestic
• Newcastle – which offers direct services to Canberra, Melbourne, Dubbo, and the Gold Coast

Interstate Trains

You can take trains from Sydney to Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. All interstate services leave from Central Station, and tickets can be purchased via  CountryLink  or, in the case of the latter two, from  Journey Beyond .

Interstate Buses

Three companies offer travel between Sydney and the other capital cities.

• Greyhound  offers a national bus network
• Firefly  offer routes between Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide
• Murrays  travel from Sydney to Wollongong and Canberra.

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Public transport.

Much of NSW is covered on the Opal Card; you can download the app on your phone or use your credit/debit card to tap on and off. Opal is used for ticketing in Sydney, Blue Mountains, Hunter Region, Central Coast, Illawarra, Southern Highlands.

Driving distances by average time taken

• Sydney to Wollongong – 1hr 30m
• Sydney to Katoomba – 1hr 30m
• Sydney to Newcastle – 2hrs 15m
• Sydney to Jervis Bay – 3hrs
• Sydney to Hunter Valley (Pokolbin) – 3hrs 20m
• Sydney to Orange – 3hr 30m
• Sydney to Batemans Bay – 4hrs
• Sydney to Port Macquarie – 4hrs 15m
• Sydney to Tamworth – 4hrs 50m
• Sydney To Jindabyne – 4hrs 50m
• Sydney to Dubbo – 5hrs
• Sydney to Byron Bay – 8 hrs 20m
• Sydney to Broken Hill – 13hrs

Numerous smaller companies offer domestic bus services to towns along the NSW coast.

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• new south wales

New South Wales

New South Wales (NSW) is home to some of the world’s most iconic tourist destinations.

The vibrant capital city of Sydney with all of its renowned landmarks and the Blue Mountains, to name just two. Its spectacular views, breathtaking natural gems, abundant golden beaches, and top notch restaurant scene – including outstanding local wines - make it one of the most popular areas in Australia.

Sydney, Australia, invites visitors to indulge in experiences that blend natural beauty, historical landmarks, and a lively cultural scene. 

Wentworth Falls

Port Macquarie

Broken Hill

Coffs Harbour

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Founded as a British penal colony in 1788, NSW is bordered to the south by the state of Victoria , to the north by Queensland , and to the west by the state of South Australia . With over eight million inhabitants, NSW is Australia’s most populated state and one which offers diverse geographical regions – a long coastal strip that stretches for close to 870 miles and borders the Tasman Sea, fertile plains in the west, outback in the east, and the Great Dividing Range (also known as the East Australian Cordillera or the Eastern Highlands) that goes from north to south with plateaus and low mountain ranges.

The greater Sydney metropolis, home to approximately two-thirds of the state’s inhabitants, is Australia’s most populous city and considered to be among the most beautiful in the world. Picture this iconic scene…twilight, as the last rays of the sun are replaced by the multitude of evening lights, you sit at a bar on the promenade of the famous Opera House with a cocktail in hand and breathe in the magical sights of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera...  Other popular Sydney attractions include the city’s Historic Center , the Royal Botanic Gardens , the Susannah Place Museum , Wild Life Sydney , the Museum of Contemporary Arts , Darling Harbour, and the Sydney Tower and Observatory . For lovers of the sea and the waves, the city’s many beaches are perfect for bathing, chilling, and/or surfing. Bondi Beach , Manly Beach, and Balmoral are some of the most popular.

Sydney is also the venue for some of Australia’s top annual festivals. The Sydney Festival is Australia’s leading arts and cultural festival which features a variety of music, theater, dance, and other events that take place in locations throughout Sydney. The Sydney Film Festival includes a selection of award-winning films from international film festivals as well as Australian and world premieres and industry conferences. The Sydney Writers’ Festival, taking place annually in May, is billed as “Australia’s largest annual celebration of literature and ideas,” with a range of events taking place which showcase new ideas, discussion, and debate. The Blue Mountain region, one of Australia’s natural wonders and one of New South Wales’ main attractions for both natives and visitors alike, is a hiker’s paradise. Not a hiker? No worries, mate! The Blue Mountains have a bushwalk to suit everyone. The region’s dramatic scenery, characterized by steep sandstone peaks covered in native wilderness, also comprises pristine waterfalls, eucalyptus forests, bushwalking trails, charming villages with guest accommodations, and ancient Aboriginal rock art. The famous Three Sisters sandstone formation is visible from the Echo Point look-out, about a mile from the town of Katoomba . 

As for the name… in the late 18th century, the mountain range was originally called “Carmarthen Hills” and “Landsdowne Hills” by Admiral Arthur Phillip, the first governor of the Colony of NSW. Later on, because of the distinctive blue haze which surrounds the area, the name was appropriately changed.

Scenic World is a World Heritage wilderness near Sydney where visitors ride on the world’s steepest incline passenger railway into the ancient rainforest and float between the rocky peaks on a glass-floored cable car. The Scenic Walkway is an elevated boardwalk rising up 1640 feet, protected by the rainforest canopy, which has its own microclimate. The walkway will immerse you in the environment, enabling you to explore the unique flora and fauna while having minimal ecological impact on the natural habitat.

Hunter Valley is New South Wales’ wine-growing region. Located about two hours north of Sydney, this area is known for its world-class wineries and vineyards, many of which are open to visitors for tours and tastings. Hunter Valley is also known for its gastronomy – gourmet restaurants and cooking schools that offer classes in the local cuisine. The first-rate art galleries are a delight, and the Hunter Valley Gardens are beautiful -one of the area’s highlights. You’ll find accommodations for every budget and interest – from luxury spa resorts to rustic cabins.  Hunter Valley is also known for its national parks. Barrington Tops National Park, a World Heritage site, is an ancient rain forest with hiking trails, impressive waterfalls, and a range of native wildlife. Wollemi National Park is one of NSW’s largest and is home to the indigenous Wollemi pine, bushwalking, rock climbing, and canoeing.

Newcastle , located in this area, is one of the largest cities in New South Wales. It has an urban vibe with a lively entertainment scene, museums, galleries, restaurants, and cafes. Bathers Way coastal walk is one of Newcastle’s most popular attractions.  Byron Bay is another highlight of New South Wales. A coastal town with an iconic lighthouse, Byron Bay is a great holiday destination. You’ll find beautiful beaches, surfing, whale watching, hiking, shopping, and a variety of water sports – as well as an outstanding art and restaurant scene.

Jervis Bay, an oceanic bay and village located on NSW’s south coast, is thought to have the whitest sand in the world. In fact, there’s a famous trail, called the White Sand Walk, which leads through the coastal forest and past four dazzling Jervis Bay beaches, starting from Greenfield Beach and ending at Hyams Beach.

Along with crystal-clear waters, Jervis Bay is a great destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming. And don’t miss the dolphin-watching and whale-watching here – one of the major pastimes of Jervis Bay! There are cruises available all year round, mainly from the charming town of Huskisson. If you’re looking for deep-sea fishing adventures, you’ll find that here too. 

Looking for a beach holiday? Head to the Central Coast with its stunning stretch of coastline – about an hour’s drive from Sydney. The coast is known for its calm water, scenic views, and beautiful bathing beaches. Avoca Beach, Terrigal Beach, and Copacabana Beach are some of the area’s most popular.

Top Destinations in the Region

Suggested other itineraries for australia, suggested family itineraries for australia, suggested friends itineraries for australia, suggested romantic itineraries for australia.

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Attractions for kids in NSW

There’s no shortage of amazing locations to keep the kids entertained in NSW. Enjoy a spectacular outing at themed adventure parks, game parks and wildlife centres that will keep tots, teens and parents happy all day long. 

South Coast 

Just under two hours drive south of Sydney, Jamberoo is a hotspot for kids' activities. You can experience the thrill of Australia’s longest zipline at  Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures . While at Jamberoo Action Park , there’s tobogganing and water slides for all ages. 

Just 25 minutes from Jamberoo, Illawarra Golf Complex and Crazy Putt has an 18-hole putt-putt course. Or head to Symbio Wildlife Park near Stanwell Park  for close encounters with native animals. 

Jamberoo Action Park , Jamberoo

On the  Sapphire Coast  at the southern tip of NSW, feed your sense of adventure at Magic Mountain Merimbula , where kids' activities include racing cars, water and carpet slides, tobogganing and mini golf. Nearby, a curious marine-life experience awaits at  Merimbula Aquarium and  Eden Killer Whale Museum . 

Magic Mountain , Merimbula

North & Central Coast 

There are plenty of kid’s attractions on the NSW Central and North Coast. In  Gosford , you’ll find the  Australian Reptile Park  where you can see crocodiles, alligators and furry friends like koalas and Tassie devils. 

Nearby at Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures , there are horse and pony rides, quad biking, outdoor laser tag, kayaking and more. While at Treetops Adventure Central Coast in Tuggerah , there are swinging, flying and bouncing adventures for all ages. 

Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures , Glenworth Valley

In Port Stephens , kids can pet and feed marine life at  Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters , or see monkeys, meerkats, leopards and giraffes up close at  Mogo Wildlife Park  near Batemans Bay . While in Newcastle , older kids can have fun hurtling around the track at Go Karts Go . 

Big Banana Fun Park in Coffs Harbour is a kid's paradise, with water slides, taboggans, laser tag, ice skating and much more. While at Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary , you can up close marine animals such as dolphins and seals. 

The Big Banana , Coffs Harbour

In the far north of the state, Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary  in  Ballina  is where younger kids can cuddle native animals. While the Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum has a fascinating exhibit that includes Australia’s largest collection of ship models and countless interactive displays that kids love. 

Nearby in Byron Bay , Cape Byron Marine Park provides a fantastic destination to go kayaking with  Cape Byron Kayaks  and  Go Sea Kayak Byron Bay . Or kids can learn to ride the waves at Lets Go Surfing Byron Bay . 

Lets Go Surfing surf school, Byron Bay

Country NSW 

Dubbo  is home to the amazing  Taronga Western Plains Zoo , where you can meet rhinos, lions, giraffes and meerkats. For something more historical, Old Dubbo Gaol provides a glimpse of life behind bars during colonial times, with many curious artefacts and secrets to explore. 

There’s no better place in Australia for stargazing than Warrumbungle National Park in Coonabarabran . Milroy Observatory runs nightly kid-friendly tours where you can take in the wonders of the night sky through telescopes.  

Taronga Western Plains Zoo , Dubbo

Snowy Mountains 

Wintertime in the Snowy Mountains of course means that kids can ski, snowboard, snowshoe and build snowmen . But what about when the snow melts? There’s still heaps of fun to be had at Alpine Bobsled Thredbo , with its twisting, turning 700-metre track that propels sledders down the mountain. Kids must be nine years and older and at least 130 cm tall for this one. 

There’s also plenty of opportunity for some family-friendly mountain biking. The Thredbo Valley Track , Lake Crackenback Resort and Bungarra Alpine Centre all offer easy riding options for first-time mountain bikers. Or for some fun on four legs, kids can ride ponies at Thredbo Valley Horse Riding . 

Thredbo Valley Track , Kosciuszko National Park - Credit: Robert Mulally

The fun never stops at Luna Park , where there’s plenty of thrills for both kids and the young at heart. Ride rollercoasters, try your luck at sideshow games or hop on the Ferris wheel and enjoy spectacular views of Sydney Harbour .   

Western Sydney is home to Australia’s largest indoor trampoline playground at Flip Out Penrith . Or for some watery fun, Raging Waters  in Blacktown has more than 30 waterslides and rides, including a thrilling 206-metre slide.  

Luna Park Sydney , Milsons Point

Also out west, kids can fly like their favourite superhero at  iFLY Downunder , experience the thrill of soaring through the air with  Jetpack Adventures , and try cable skiing, wakeboarding and knee-boarding at  Cables Wake Park . 

For an animal adventure, Taronga Zoo on Sydney’s north shore offers close encounters with exotic and native wildlife. There are over 4,000 animals on display, including tigers, lions, elephants and chimpanzees. Or head over to Western Sydney, where kids can have an open-air safari-style experience at Sydney Zoo and meet furry friends at  Featherdale Wildlife Park . 

Taronga Zoo , Mosman

In Darling Harbour , kids can get up close to koalas and kangaroos at  WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo , see king penguins, sharks and turtles at  SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium , then meet their favourite celebrities at Madame Tussauds . 

If it’s educational fun you’re looking for, you can step onto a replica sailing ship and explore a submarine at Australian National Maritime Museum . While at the Australian Museum , there are 21 million scientific specimens and cultural objects to explore.  

Australian National Maritime Museum , Darling Harbour

Plan your trip 

Before planning your next family holiday, check out the  events calendar  for festivals and special exhibitions for kids at  museums and galleries  during  school holidays . A  road trip  is a great way to see the state and there are  accommodation  options are available to suit a range of budgets. 

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Plan your trip and learn how to travel on public transport across NSW. Find out how to pay your fare on public transport and book tickets for regional travel.

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Opal Travel is the official app for managing your travel across the Opal network in Sydney and greater New South Wales. Use the app to add value to your Opal card remotely, enable auto top-ups, view your travel history and access other useful public transport information.

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Planning a trip to Sydney

• Visa and entry requirements (Australia)

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Visa and entry requirements

Read about visa and entry requirements for Australia

Embassies and consulates

Find out about Australian consulates and embassies abroad

More than 40 countries also have diplomatic representation in ­Sydney. The following consulates are in Sydney:

Level 5, Quay West Building, 111 Harrington Street; tel: 02 9364-3000.

Level 26, 1 Market Street; tel: 02 9264-9635.

New Zealand

Level 10, 55 Hunter Street; tel: 02 8256-2000.

Level 16, The Gateway, 1 Macquarie Place; tel: 02 9247-7521.

Level 59, MLC Centre, 19–29 Martin Place; tel: 02 9373-9200.

Getting to Sydney

Read about getting to Australia by air

Getting around Sydney

From the airport.

  There is a railway line between­ the airport and Sydney’s Central Station. This 10km (6-mile) Airport Link ( www.­airportlink.com.au ; tel: 131 500) has five stations, including one at Sydney Airport’s international terminal and another at the dom­estic terminal. There is also a freeway linking central Sydney with the airport.

Arriving passengers can travel from Sydney Airport to town by taxi (20 minutes), train (10 minutes) or bus (20–30 minutes). The Airporter bus service ( www.kst.com.au ; tel: 02 9666-9988) goes to major ­hotels. A shuttle service is also available through Sydney Maxi Cabs ( www.cityshuttle.com.au ) or Easy Shuttle ( www.easyshuttle.com.au ).

Public transport

  Sydney has clean, safe, easy to use and efficient public transport system. You can also combine transport with admission to attractions and various other discounts. For information on Sydney’s public ferries, buses and trains, call 131-500. The NSW Transport website allows you to search for train, bus and ferry schedules: www.131500.com.au . The MyMulti Day passes are sold for a single day (AU$20) or up to a week (AU$57). They allow unlimited use of public transport (bus, train or ferry).

Buses are a practical option during business hours, but service tapers off after dark. The two main starting points for buses are at Wynyard Park on York Street (for the northern suburbs) and at Circular Quay (all other directions).

The fare depends on the distance travelled; single tickets may be purchased from the driver, or you can buy a Travelten pass from a newsagent, entitling you to 10 rides. The cost of the pass depends on which sections of the city you plan to visit, from AU$11 for two sections up to AU$39 for 16.

Bus route numbers starting with an ‘L’ are express services with limited stops and are priced by the distance travelled. (Wheelchair-­accessible buses show the international access symbol. The NSW Transport website and hotline has detailed information).

Two bus services, red Sydney Explorer and blue Bondi Explorer, offer great sightseeing value. The first covers all the main central Sydney sights and the second visits the bays, beaches and attractions of the eastern side of town, including Kings Cross and Watsons Bay. They run a continuous loop (with narration) throughout the day and evening. Your ticket allows you to hop on and off as often as you like. A one-day ticket is AU$35; a two-day option is AU$56. Sydney ­Passes offer unlimited rides on the red and blue sightseeing buses, plus access to the Airport Link trains, rail, state-run buses and ferry services; passes sold in three-, five- and seven-day versions.

Sydney’s underground railway system (subway) operates from 4.30am to midnight; it’s the central unit of a railway network that stretches out to the suburbs. After midnight, the Nightride bus service takes over and runs through the night. Sydney’s trains are double-deck, and station platforms are marked with special ‘Night safe’ areas, to show you which carriages are open; others may be closed after dark.

This links the central city and Darling Harbour, and runs every 3–5 minutes. Its operating hours are Mon–Thur 7am–10pm, Fri–Sat 7am–midnight and Sun 8am–10pm. Any part of the route up to one complete loop costs AU$4.90. A day pass is AU$9.50. A combination day pass for the Monorail and light rail is AU$15.

The ‘light rail’ system in Sydney is actually a tram service. It runs from Central Station through Chinatown and Darling Harbour to the Fish Market and a little beyond. Fares are based on distances, starting at AU$4.80 return. A day pass is AU$9.

A vital part of life in Sydney, with so many commuters continually criss-crossing the harbour, ferries sail between 6am and 11pm daily. Most depart from Circular Quay, providing inexpensive outings for sightseers to Kirribilli, Taronga Zoo, Manly and Darling Harbour. Water taxis are easy to use but are expensive (tel: 02 9299-0199).

You can hail a cab on the street if the orange light on top is lit. Otherwise, go to one of the taxi ranks at shopping centres, transport terminals or big hotels, and take the first taxi in the rank. Or phone for a taxi; tel: 131-451 or 02 9020-9966. Zero 2000, a wheelchair-­accessible taxi service, can be contacted on 02 8332-0200. There are also several ‘secure’ taxi stands which are supervised in the wee hours. Meters indicate the fare plus any extras, such as waiting time. Higher tariffs apply 10pm–6am. It is not customary to tip taxi drivers.

Health and safety

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What to read

Sydney Architecture , Graham Jahn

30 Days in Sydney , Peter Carey

Poor Man’s Orange , Ruth Park

For Love Alone , Christina Stead

The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide , edited by Terry Durack and Jill Dupleix

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Use Trip Planner to plan journeys within the Opal network or anywhere in NSW. Plan a trip now . 

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Maps and timetables

Newcastle Transport covers the Newcastle local government area and Newcastle Harbour, and the eastern part of Lake Macquarie, between Adamstown Heights and Swansea Heads.

Whether you are planning ahead or leaving now, there are a number of ways you can plan your trip, look up times or check for travel alerts on your phone, tablet or computer.

Area timetables

Download a weekly timetable for your area.

Individual routes

Find your individual route map and download the timetable.

Search by Suburb to discover the routes available in your area.

Maps explained

Regional network map

Discover all regional routes operated by Newcastle Transport.

The network map contains all bus routes and stops in the Newcastle Transport area, and shows points of interest and facilities including interchange options.

Newcastle Transport operates 21 bus routes serving the major facilities across Newcastle, the ferry between Stockton and Queens Wharf, the light rail service from Newcastle Interchange to Newcastle Beach and the On Demand service in Lake Macquarie.

Download the regional network map

Area route maps

Search by suburb to discover services in your area. Detailed area route maps present bus routs available to travel within certain areas and to the Newcastle CBD.

Stops, timing points, points of interest, transport connections are indicated around the itinerary to help you identify the stop nearest to your destination. The timing points are given by letters, which correspond to the columns listed in the timetable to show when the bus is due to arrive at the location along the route. 

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How to use the Trip Planner

Steps to plan a trip.

Choose the travel plan that best suits your needs and preferences.

Set your favourites and customise options to choose your preferred travel style.

Alternative travel options

Compare public transport to drive or rideshare travel options, cycling or walking.

Some trips give you the option to book with NSW Regional TrainLink services or a third party operator.

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trip-planner Plan a trip

How to plan a trip

• Enter ‘ From ' and ‘ To ’ locations.
• If you are on the homepage click ‘ Go ’ to see results otherwise they will load automatically once your destination is set.

You can plan a trip using:

• an address, street name or suburb
• a station, bus stop name or ferry wharf
• a point of interest (e.g. Sydney Opera House)
• a stop number (e.g. 200064)
• clicking a location on the map

Helpful tip:

• When you click or tap on the ' From ' or ' To ' fields, any previously used locations will be suggested. As you type, the list will filter to suggested matches. Select the closest match.

Accessible trips

If you have accessibility requirements and some of your trip plan results are not accessible, you follow these steps to display accessible only trip plans:

• Press the ' Refine ' button
• Select the check box next to ' Accessible services only '
• Press ' Apply ' to see results for accessible services only.

There are a range of tools and resources for planning an accessible trip .

Change date and time of trip plan

By default all trips are set as departing at the time you search.

To change the departure time:

• Click on ' Leaving now '.
• To see results that arrive by or before a particular time, select ' Arriving '.

Time is displayed in 24-hour format. You cannot select a date in the past.

Plan a trip using your current location

You may need to allow your computer or mobile phone to use your current location in the Trip Planner. Press ' Allow ' on the pop-up window of the browser or tap ' Allow ' on the pop-up on your mobile device and enable location services. The message may appear slightly differently on different devices or browsers.

Plan a trip using the map

• On a mobile device, tap in the ' From '   or ' To '   field and then tap ' Choose on map ' to see the map, then you can tap anywhere on the map to plan a trip to or from that location.
• Click (desktop) or tap (mobile) anywhere on the map and a dialog will appear showing the address selected with a prompt to plan a trip either from that location or to that location

See stops or Points of interest on map

• When on the map, click on ' Map options ' in the top right, to turn on display of Public transport stops or Points of Interest.
• You can then click (desktop) or tap (mobile) these icons to set as the ‘ From ’ or ‘ To ’ locations and plan your trip.

Ways in which you can enter a Location

Your current location.

Use your current location in the Trip Planning digital tools. These tools use global positioning technology (GPS) to determine where you are.

You may need to allow your computer or mobile phone to use your currently location. Simply click “Allow” on the pop-up window of the browser or tap “Allow” on the pop-up on your mobile device and enable location services. The message may appear slightly differently on different devices or browsers.

You can also enter a specific address into the location field, including the street name or suburb.

As you type, the list will filter to suggested matches and if the exact address does not show, select the closest match.

If you are entering street names, it is important to check you choose the right suburb.

Details of a Transport Stop

You can also specify the name of a bus stop, station of Ferry in the location fields. If you have the stop number, you can also enter that into the location fields.

Point of Interest

You can also enter the name of a point of interest or landmark (e.g. Sydney Opera House) in the location field.

Points on a Map

You can also select the location by clicking a location on the map.

Click anywhere on the map and a dialog will appear showing the address selected with a prompt to plan a trip either from that location or to that location.

On a mobile device, tap in the From or To field and then select the map icon in the top right hand corner of the My current location option, to see the map, then you can tap anywhere on the map to plan a trip to or from that location.

Alternatively, when on the map, click on 'Map options' in the top right, to turn on display of Stops or Points of Interest. You can then click (desktop) or tap (mobile) these icons to set as the ‘From’ or ‘To’ locations.

Map Options

'Map options' allows you to select 'Stops', 'Opal retailers' and 'Points of interest'. On selection, the map will zoom in to the centre of the map, to show the relevant icons for 'Stops', 'Opal retailers' or 'Points of Interest'. Icons are only visible when the map is zoomed in. Click any icon for more details or to plan your trip to or from any stop or point of interest.

• centre the map on your current location

options Refine your trip

Refine for advanced options

Click ' Refine ' to edit your trip preferences and refine your:

Trip preference

Public transport options, connecting with public transport, service options, walking speed.

You can set your trip preference from:

• Earliest arrival
• Fewest changes
• Least walking

See: Earliest arrival, fewest changes or least walking

Choose which types of transport you want to include or exclude from your results (by default metro, train, bus, ferry, light rail and coach are included and school buses are excluded).

See:  School travel

By default the Trip Planner assumes most people will walk up to 20 minutes between transfers. You can adjust this time and also choose to instead ride a bike or travel by car (Taxi/Drive) under the ' Connecting with public transport ' section when refining your trip options.

See: Connecting with public transport

Include OpalPay, On Demand and bookable services

By default, all available services will be returned and the checkbox for ' Include OpalPay, On Demand and bookable services ' will be selected. Selecting this option will show results for:

• Private services (e.g. Manly Fast Ferry, rural and regional buses)
• Services that need to be booked (On Demand services, Regional trains and coaches, private bus and ferry services)

For more information, see Plan a trip with Opal only services .

Accessible services only

Select ' Accessible services only ' if you need wheelchair accessible services. For more information, see Accessible trips .

Choose your walk speed:

• 'slow' (2 km/h)
• 'average' (4 km/h)
• 'fast' (6km/h)

Apply / Reset

• Click ‘ Apply ’ to see the updated results
• To restore all preferences back to the default state, select ' RESET ' in the Refine section or select ' clear ' from the results page.

Earliest arrival, fewest changes or least walking

Earliest arrival  is displayed by default – that is, the services that will arrive the soonest after the ' Leaving ' or closest to the ' Arriving ' time. Click ' Refine '   to change this to instead order results by ‘ Fewest changes ’ or ‘ Least walking ’.

Fewest changes  will present trip options with the fewest changes to reach your destination, however the overall journey time may take longer than a trip which involves more changes. 

Least walking  will present trip options with minimal walking between stops or transfers wherever possible.

By default the Trip Planner assumes most people will walk up to 20 minutes between transfers. You can adjust this time and also choose to instead ' Cycle ' or ' Travel by car (Taxi/Drive) ' under the Connecting with public transport section when refining your trip options.

Plan a trip with Opal services only

By default the Trip Planner includes results for services such as On Demand, private ferries and other bookable services.

To turn off these services in trip results:

• select ' Refine ' to edit your trip preferences
• under ' Service options ’ deselect the ' Include OpalPay, On Demand and bookable services '.

This will filter out travel options that:

• do not accept Opal card or Contactless payments such as the Manly Fast Ferry
• require booking, such as On Demand and NSW TrainLink services. This also includes OpalPay services that accept payments using Opal cards but which do not count towards any Opal rewards or other benefits.

The Trip Planner will also estimate your Opal fare.

Save favourite trips

Your previous trips are automatically saved for easy, one-click trip planning when you come back.

To pin a trip to the top of the list, select:

• ' Favourite ' at the bottom right of the Trip Planner form
• the star icon on any of your previous trips.

Select ' Clear ' to clear any trip results, reset preferences and display your previous and favourite trips.

Tip : Set up a trip from ‘ My current location ’ to your home address or stop. This is our ‘ take me home now ’ option. The Trip Planner will use your current location every time it's used.

You can choose how you connect with public transport with options available for walking, cycling or taxi/drive.

Just select your preference for walking, cycling or taking a taxi or driving and how long you want to allow for each option.

For example on a regular commute you may choose to allow for a 20 minute cycle at the beginning of your journey from your home to a local train station where you can leave your bike in a locker, followed by a 15 minute walk at the end of your journey to your workplace from the nearest station. You can then reverse these options for the return trip.

Map options

• ' Map options ' allows you to select ' Stops ', ' Opal retailers ' and ' Points of interest '. On selection, the map will zoom in to the centre of the map, to show the relevant icons for ' Stops ', ' Opal retailers ' or ' Points of Interest '. Icons are only visible when the map is zoomed in. Click any icon for more details or to plan your trip to or from any stop or point of interest.

booking Bookings

Regional bookings.

If a service requires a booking, the ‘ booking required ’ badge will display.

Trip Planner will then direct you to book your ticket online through the NSW TrainLink booking website . You can search for available services, view current sale fares and manage your booking. 

Rideshare and taxi

Trip Planner enables you to see rideshare and taxi trip options. If you want to make a booking, you'll be sent to a third party operator website.

On Demand public transport

On Demand public transport is available in some areas on certain days and times. If one of these On Demand services is available for the trip you planned, you may see the service as an option in your trip results.

Depending on the service you may need to download the relevant app to book a trip and pay for these services. Expand the trip results and click on the link to ' book your seat ' to be linked through to the relevant information page for that On Demand service where you can find out details such as the cost, times of operation and how to book that service.

OpalPay is available on some On Demand services and if so this will be indicated when you expand your trip results.

travel-info Alternative travel options (Cycle, Walk, Drive)

Compare options.

Tell the Trip Planner where you are travelling to and from, and it will return results for all modes of transport. You can compare public transport with walking, cycling or rideshare to help you make more informed decisions on the fastest and most cost effective travel options.

You can further customise these results for these modes:

Public transport

• trip preference (earliest arrival, fewest changes, least walking)
• public transport modes (train, bus, ferry, light rail and others)
• connecting to and from public transport (walk, cycle or taxi/drive)
• average walking speed (slow 2km/h, average 4 km/h or fast 6km/h)

Find out more about refining your public transport trip

When choosing the Trip Planner option to ride a bike, you can choose your preferred route based on options for Easier, Moderate or More direct.

• Easier  will avoid hills and busy roads where possible, but may take longer.
• Moderate  is for riders who don't mind the occasional hill and are comfortable riding on roads.
• More direct  is for experienced cyclists who want the fastest and most direct journey.

• choose speed (slow 2km/h, average 4 km/h or fast 6km/h)
• choose between a driving leg, your personal car or booking with a local taxi or rideshare service.

Find out more about booking .

map Trip Planner results

Trip summary.

Several trip options are displayed on individual summary cards which contain trip information, relevant trip alerts and fare information.

• If the first leg is a transport leg (metro, train, bus, ferry, light rail, On Demand or coach), this is the time until the service departs, or for On Demand services an indicative time. 
• If the first leg is walking / driving, this is the time until you have to leave to start walking / driving.
• Icons indicate the transport modes that make up the trip (e.g. metro, train, bus, ferry, light rail, On Demand , coach, walk, drive).
• Route numbers indicate the transport service, e.g., T1, 333, F4, etc
• Walk legs show the walk time, for example: 10 is 10 minutes.
• Taxi/drive shows the distance in kilometres.
• The departure and arrival time and duration of the whole trip is indicated.
• If a service requires a booking, ‘ booking required ’ will display.
• Opal fares are calculated for trips that can be paid using your Opal card or Contactless payment card.
• The adult fare is displayed by default. You can click on the fare to change the Opal card type and see other Opal card types and fares, as well as read more about how Opal fares are calculated and displayed.

See key to icons for more information.

Trip details

Select any summary card to see the detailed itinerary of each trip option. The expanded card gives detailed instructions for the entire trip, including:

• Departure and arrival stops, station or wharf, colour-coded by mode. For On Demand services the departure and arrival stops are indicative only and the trip must be booked with the operator to confirm actual locations.
• Where real-time is available for a leg of the trip, a real-time indicator is shown with the departure time. You can also see if the service is on time, running early or late. For buses and some trains, the capacity indicator tells you whether there are many or few seats available.
• Route/line details and direction.
• A wheelchair accessible icon if the service is accessible.
• Any relevant alerts or disruptions
• Opal fares at each tap off point.

View trip results on map

Mobile devices.

• On small screens, such as a smartphone, each trip plan option displays a map option in the summary card, to let you view the trip on the map. The map will zoom to the start of the trip and you can zoom and pan to view your entire trip.
• On large screens, such as a laptop or desktop computer, the first trip option is always displayed on the map. Click any other ‘ card ’ to view that trip on the map.
• Clicking on the ' walk/drive ' directions or ' view stops ' will zoom to the relevant section of the map.

help Troubleshooting

Recommended browsers.

To access all the features of the Trip Planner , and the transportnsw.info website, we recommend using the latest versions of Chrome , Firefox , Safari or Microsoft Edge . If you are using an older browser, some features may not work.

You also need to keep JavaScript enabled, to interact with any site features.

This website is responsive which means no matter what device you are on – mobile, tablet or desktop – the Trip Planner is flexible to work on your screen.

Help is available in the following languages:

• دليل التخطيط للرحلات (Arabic)
• 规划程式指 南 (Simplified Chinese)
• 行程規劃程式指南 (Traditional Chinese)
• 경로 찾기 플래너 (Korean)
• Hướng dẫn hoạch định chuyến đi (Vietnamese)