9D8N Muslim-Friendly Itinerary For An Epic Road Trip In Sydney And Beyond

New South Wales is well-known for its sparkling capital of Sydney, its seemingly endless beaches and stunning natural landscapes, and its Instagrammable cafe dining scene. But, that’s not all that is waiting for you in New South Wales.

We took a trip to Sydney and commenced a road trip that took us via Port Stephens, the Hunter Valley, the Central Coast and the Blue Mountains. If you’re planning a family holiday, a trip with your friends or even solo travel, this 9D8N itinerary in Sydney and beyond would convince you to pack your bags!

• The Opal cards are smartcard tickets that you keep and reuse to pay for travel on public transport in Sydney.
• Once you have your Opal Card, just add value, then tap on and off to travel. Easy peasy lemon squeezy!
• You can use your Opal card on the metro, train, bus, ferry and light rail services.
• You can buy your Opal card at most convenience stores, light rail stations and Sydney Airport.

• If you’re visiting Sydney on a weekend, there’s a weekend travel cap at cap $9.65 a day for adults and $4.80 a day for kids.
• For more information about the Opal cards, visit Transport NSW.
• Alternatively, you can also use your bank card on Sydney’s public transportation. Just remember to tap on before you get on and tap off after! The same benefits apply too!

• The Potting Shed shares the same space as The Grounds in Alexandria where you can pose for photos at their seasonal and beautiful pop-up exhibitions.

• We loved the green-filled space too. It felt like we were dining in a garden!
• They serve fresh and locally produced dishes. We tried their grilled chicken salad, fish fillet of the day that came with charred broccolini, chunky gribiche, lemon caper, parsley butter and crispy arrow squid that was served with lemon aioli, parsley, caper, and onion salad. All super yummy and fresh!
• The dishes are every Instagrammer’s dream as well — delicious AND beautifully prepared.

Halal status: Alcohol is served here so we recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 11.30am - 9pm (Daily)

Address: 41/43 Bourke Rd, Alexandria NSW 2015, Australia

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• Walk towards the Museum of Contemporary Art from the Circular Quay light rail station. If you have time, schedule a visit! Be sure to check out the fantastic view of Sydney Harbour from the rooftop cafe! Check out their website for more information and tickets.
• Stroll through the historic The Rocks, a neighbourhood where you can find cobbled laneways, restaurants, cosy cafés and splendid views of the Sydney Opera House and the harbour.
• Enjoy browsing through the shops selling local brands such as UGG, Aesop and many others. Be sure to check out The Rocks Markets happening every Friday to Sunday. Check out their website for more information.
• There are also plenty of restaurants here and Pancakes on the Rocks offers some of the best pancakes in the city and La Renaissance serves some of the most beautiful sweet treats! Do note that these two restaurants serve pork so we recommend you dine at your own discretion.

• Continue your walk towards Sydney Harbour Bridge (follow the Bridge Stairs signboard) and take a walk on the Sydney Harbour Bridge like a local!
• Yes, it’s free to walk across the bridge! The 2.4km journey will take about a 20-minute walk.
• You can walk across the bridge to Luna Park, Sydney’s iconic theme park or check out the breathtaking view of Sydney Harbour from Milsons Point.
• You can take your visit to the Sydney Harbour Bridge to a whole new level (literally!) and join the BridgeClimb tour! There are different tours that you can take part in including climbing the bridge during sunset.
• Yes, children are welcome too!
• Check out their website for more information.

• You can enjoy unparalleled views of the Sydney Harbour and Sydney Opera House.
• We walked halfway across the bridge and made our way back to The Rocks and continued our walk to the famous Sydney Opera House.

• What’s a trip to Sydney without visiting the iconic Sydney Opera House, right?
• There are different tours that you can enjoy such as:
  • the Foodie Tour - enjoy a dining experience at the Sydney Opera House!
  • the Opera House Tour - where you’ll learn about the history and uncover untold stories,
  • the Backstage Tour - walk through rehearsal spaces that are not open to the public, and
  • the Sydney Opera House Mobility Access Tour is designed for patrons with limited mobility so everyone can enjoy Sydney’s most iconic building.
• There’s always an event happening here, ranging from workshops, theatre, opera, dance performances and live music concerts. Check out the Sydney Opera House website for the full schedule.

Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

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• Situated at a height of 250 meters above ground level, Sydney Tower Eye offers stunning 360-degree views of the city's skyline, allowing you to admire famous landmarks like the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and picturesque sunsets.
• Feel like a VIP with express mobile ticket entry, along with a complimentary 4D movie experience.
• If you're feeling adventurous, dare to try the Skywalk!

• Located near Darling Harbour, you can stop by the mosque to perform your prayers.
• The mosque is spacious and clean with separate ablution spaces for women and men.
• Do bring your own prayer garment and mat.
• After prayers, make your way to Darling Harbour. It’s a mecca for entertainment and waterfront dining in the city centre.
• The precinct is alive with activity and plays host to Sydney's top attractions including the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussauds Sydney, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and the Australian National Maritime Museum.

Opening hours: 12.30pm - 6pm (closed on Saturday and Sunday)

Address: 1/56-60 Erskine St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

• Have your dinner at Nick’s Seafood, a popular restaurant overlooking the beautiful view of Darling Harbour. If you’re here on a Saturday night, you’re in for a treat as there’ll be fireworks show accompanying your dinner! (Subject to weather conditions, check the website for the fireworks)
• The restaurant was almost full when we arrived, so reservations were highly recommended.
• We had the lobster pasta (a red sauce spaghetti with lobster meat) and the Fisherman’s Platter of the catch of the day, soft shell crab, golden fried king prawns, panko crumbed calamari rings with chips, homemade tartare sauce and served with Greek salad.
• We can also recommend the signature Nick’s Seafood Platter where you’ll have a choice of lobster, freshly shucked Sydney Rock oysters, deep-fried calamari, grilled fish, tempura prawns and chips.

Halal status: No pork and no alcohol are used in the cooking but alcohol is served in the restaurant. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 5pm - 10pm

Address: The Promenade, Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

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• During our trip, we stayed at the Great Southern Hotel Sydney, which was located in Haymarket.
• The location was perfect as it was only 50m away from the Haymarket light rail station.
• We stayed in the standard twin room. It was clean and comfortable.
• The best part is, we could leave our luggage in their storeroom while we wait for the room to be ready!

Rate per night: S$175/night

Address: 717 George St, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia

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• Enjoy Sydney’s coffee culture at one of the popular cafes in Bondi Beach - bills!
• Be sure to try out bills’ famous ricotta hotcakes and corn fritters.
• There are plenty of Muslim-friendly dishes as it offers a vegetarian-based menu including smashed avocado on toast, scrambled eggs and coconut bread.

Halal status: Pork is served as an add-on and alcohol is served. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (Daily)

Address: 79 Hall Street, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

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• Take a stroll along the famous Graffiti Wall — the colourful wall makes a great backdrop for your Instagram feed!
• What’s a trip to Sydney if you didn’t enjoy the beach, right? Take a dip at the beautiful Bondi Beach! Be sure to swim between the flags for your safety!
• If you’re here on a weekend, be sure to check out the Bondi Farmers Market on Saturday for fresh produce and the Bondi Markets on Sunday where you can try street food, shop for local and handmade souvenirs and enjoy the overall chill vibes.
• Always wanted to surf? Then you’ve come to the right place! Learn how to surf with Let’s Go Surfing, the only licensed surf school in Bondi Beach. They’re perfect for beginners and can cater for adults and kids aged 7 years old and above.

• If you’re not into surfing but still want to enjoy water activities, don’t worry. We recommend swimming at the world-famous Bondi Icebergs.
• Swim a lap or two at the most photographed swimming pool where you can also enjoy the stunning views.
• There are bathrooms and lockers for you to change and store your stuff but do bring your own towel and toiletries.

Admission tickets: $10 (adult), $7 (12 years old and under), and $30 (2 adults and up to 3 children).

Opening hours: 6am - 6.30pm (Monday to Friday), 6.30am - 6.30pm (Saturday and Sunday). Closed on Thursday.

Address: 1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach NSW 2026, Australia

• If you have time, we highly recommend doing the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk that starts near the Bondi Icebergs Pool.
• Enjoy one of Sydney’s most iconic walks, taking in beautiful beaches, cliff tops and great cafes along the way.
• The 6km walk takes two to three hours, depending on how often you stop, but you can also allow a full day to do the walk and enjoy a swim at each of the beaches en route.
• It’s a level Grade 2 track and suitable for most ages and fitness levels with occasional steep sections of stairs. Not suitable for prams or wheelchairs.
• Top attractions: Bondi Beach, Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach, Clovelly Beach, Coogee Beach
• Cool off at Giles Baths, a natural rock pool which is also known as the “Bogey hole” that was used by male bathers in the 19th century.
• It's a popular swimming hole with young people and is a fun place to explore from Coogee Beach. You can access it from the Coastal Walkway in Dunningham Reserve, near where the Bali Memorial stands, or walk along the rocky foreshore north of Coogee Beach. The entry portico from the original "Giles Gym and Baths" still remains.

• Seafood lovers, rejoice! The brand-new Sydney Fish Market has officially landed at Blackwattle Bay, and it is a total vibe.
• This $800 million masterpiece features a stunning, wave-inspired roof and floor-to-ceiling glass that puts the "theatre" of seafood on full display.
• Grab world-class sashimi or a classic bucket of prawns and head to the sun-drenched waterfront steps.
• With over 40 legendary retailers, it’s a literal foodie heaven.
• Whether you're here for the sunrise auctions or a sunset mocktail by the harbour, this is Sydney’s ultimate new hangout.

• We enjoyed fresh sashimi, a variety of sushi, lobster rolls, blow-torched cheesy scallops, pan-fried salmon and chips, as well as freshly shucked Sydney Rock Oysters!

Opening hours: 7am - 10pm

Address: 1 Bridge Rd, Glebe NSW 2037, Australia

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• Taronga Zoo, with spectacular views of beautiful Sydney Harbour, is a great attraction to see native wildlife and rare exotic animals.
• Get here with the ferry from Circular Quay — it’s only a 12-minute journey and you get to enjoy fantastic views of the Sydney Harbour!

• Be sure to check out the bird and seal shows! They’ll steal your heart.
• We recommend signing up for the Nura Diya Aboriginal Discovery Tour where you can explore the connection between Australia’s animals, plants and landscape and Aboriginal Dreamtime.
• Soak up breathtaking Sydney Harbour views, watch the Asian Elephant herd play and spot the gorillas as they explore their home.
• There are plenty of animal encounters that you can experience at the Taronga Zoo, our favourite was being able to get up close and grab a picture with the famous Australian icon - the cuddly koalas!
• You can also learn about these incredibly curious species from the expert keepers and get the opportunity to feed these adorable animals some of their favourite snacks!
• You can also choose to stay overnight at the zoo!
• Take your pick: thoughtfully curated designer room at Wildlife Retreat that allows you to overlook bushland, come eye-to-eye with animals or gaze across stunning Sydney Harbour or Roar and Snore for a more authentic experience, stay at Roar and Snore, a harbour-side campsite where you can get up close to some of Taronga Zoo Sydney's friendliest residents.

Opening hours: 9.30am - 5pm (Daily)
Address: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia

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• We can’t get enough of the beautiful Sydney Harbour! So we decided to enjoy dinner on a cruise during sunset.
• We booked the Sydney Harbour Fine Dining Dinner Cruise where we enjoyed a three-course meal.

• We had the seafood platter (prawn, sashimi and oysters) as the entree and for the main course, we had the slow-roasted lamb (it’s halal-certified!) on mashed potatoes and blistered cherry tomatoes drenched in raisin juice. As a sweet finish, we were served chocolate cake.
• We truly enjoyed the cruise as we enjoyed stunning views of Sydney Harbour and its surrounding as night fell and city lights start to sparkle.

• We started our day bright and early! First, it’s time to pick up our car rental at Sydney Airport.
• The car rental kiosk is directly in front of the arrival exit. You won’t miss it
• The journey from Sydney Airport to Port Stephens is about a 2.5-hour drive.
• There are plenty of rest stops along the way, so relax and enjoy the drive!

• Do note that Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road (just like in Malaysia and Singapore!) and you can use your home country’s driving license, so there’s no need for an international driving licence. However, you’ll need an English translation if your driving licence is not in English.
• You can rent a car from Klook, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt and many more. There are options to pick up the car from the airport or various locations around Sydney CBD.

If you need more information for your road trip, check out 8 Must-Know Tips For Your Sydney-New South Wales Road Trip. Looking for more road trip ideas? Check out 7 Scenic Road Trips From Sydney For The Ultimate Nature Getaway!

• For our stay in Port Stephens, we checked in at Port Stephens Motel.
• The motel has free parking, so perfect if you’re driving!
• The Queen Room has a queen size bed and a single bed and it was so comfortable!
• It’s also located only a 10-minute walk to Little Nelson Bay if you’d like to go for a swim or a picnic.

Rate per night: S$200/night

Address: 44 Magnus St, Nelson Bay NSW 2315, Australia

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• Port Stephens has plenty of outdoor activities perfect for both adults and children!
• For your first day in Port Stephens, enjoy a relaxing camel ride at the Oakfield Ranch Camel Ride on the beautiful Birubi Beach.
• The day ride goes out along the small sand dunes and back along the beachfront.
• No advance booking is required! Walk in for a ride any time between 10am and 3:30pm. The 20-minute day rides depart approximately every half hour.
• There is also a 60-minute camel ride on Friday and Saturday evenings where you’ll get to go into the higher sand dunes and return along the water's edge while the sun comes down for a memorable experience.

Admission fee: AUD$45 for adults, AUD$40 for children (under 15 years old). They take both cash and cashless payments.

Opening hours: 10am - 3.30pm

Address: Birubi Beach Lower Car Park (end of James Paterson Street), Anna Bay, Port Stephens, NSW 2316

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• Continue your adventure in Port Stephens at the Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters where you can get up close and personal with rays and sharks.
• Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters is an interactive aquarium where you get the chance to feed and pet a variety of shark and ray species.
• Get ready to get your feet and hands wet as you can enter the shallow water of the lagoon and feed the rays while listening to educational talks by knowledgeable fish keepers.
• If you want to take your experience further, upgrade your ticket to Gold Pass where you can enjoy getting close to Zebra Shark, feed the Tawny Nurse Shark and snorkel with the friendly sharks.
• This is perfect for a family day out!

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (Daily)

Address: 2 Jessie Rd, Anna Bay NSW 2316, Australia

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• Hello, rice! After searching for some time, We decided to head to Authentic Thai Restaurant for dinner.
• They served your usual signature Thai food. We ordered seafood tom yum, cashew nut chicken and vegetables in hoisin sauce.

Halal status: Alcohol is served at the restaurant. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 11am - 2pm, 4pm - 9pm (closed on Tuesdays)

Address: 50 Austral St, Nelson Bay NSW 2315, Australia

Dolphin Discovery Cruise

• With over 140 bottlenose dolphins calling Port Stephens home, it’s no wonder these friendly locals are sighted so often.
• Catch a glimpse of the dolphins playfully going about their day on a cruise with Moonshadow ‐ TQC Cruises!

Oakvale Wildlife Park

• Have kids who love animals? Then head over to Oakvale Wildlife Park where you can have hands-on experience with feeding farm animals, tractor trailer ride, get up close and personal with koalas, and more!

Rise and shine! It’s time to enjoy a hike on Tomaree Head!

• The 2.2km return walk offers a short but challenging hike and picturesque ocean views across Port Stephens and beyond.
• The stunning view is worth waking up early for!
• The hike could take about 20-30 minutes to ascend, depending on how fit you are. If you’re not, don’t worry! Take it slow and there are plenty of benches for you to take a break.

• When you reach the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Yacaaba Head, Cabbage Tree Bay, Boondelbah and Broughton Islands from the north platform. From the south platform, views of Zenith, Wreck and Box Beaches, Fingal Island and Point Stephens Lighthouse will be sure to impress.
• Be sure to check out the historic World War II gun emplacements. Take your binoculars as you might be lucky to see some dolphins!

Address: Shoal Bay Rd, Shoal Bay NSW 2315, Australia

• Enjoy fresh seafood at Cook-a-barra Restaurant and Function Centre.
• The fish and chips are Muslim-friendly as they used soda water instead of beer in the batter!
• You can also request your seafood to be cooked poached or baked.
• Some of the must-tries include garlic cheese pizza, traditional chicken parmigiana and seafood marinara linguine.

Halal status: No alcohol is used in the dishes but served in the restaurant. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 10am - 3.30pm (closed on Tuesday)

Address: 476 Marsh Rd, Bobs Farm NSW 2316, Australia

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• Live out your Mad Max dreams quad biking on Stockton Sand Dunes, the largest coastal moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere
• We got our tickets to try out quad biking with Sand Dune Adventures on their website and it was super easy to redeem — just show the operator your digital ticket!
• You can choose to ride on a one–person or two–person quad bike.
• If you love adventurous activities, this one’s for you! You’ll go up and down the sand dunes that come with incredible views.
• Don’t worry if it’s your first time as there are instructors who will guide you through the experience.

Address: 2163 Nelson Bay Road, Williamtown NSW Australia 2318

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• As the sun is still shining after your quad-biking experience, it’s the perfect time to head to the beach!
• We ordered a seafood platter from John Dory’s Takeaway to be enjoyed on the beach while enjoying the sunset.
• There’s no alcohol used in the batter, so it’s perfect for us Muslims.
• There are plenty of picnic tables scattered along the beach so you can enjoy your meal.
• We loved that there are plenty of water refilling stations in the area so be sure to bring your reusable water bottles!

Halal status: No alcohol and pork are used in the dishes.

Opening hours: 11am - 7.30pm (Daily)

Address: 136 Magnus St, Nelson Bay NSW 2315, Australia

• It’s time to get on the road again! The drive to the Hunter Valley is about 2 hours.
• The Hunter Valley is a popular region for vineyards and it makes a beautiful backdrop for your photos!
• While you’re here, be sure to check out the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company or Sabor Dessert Bar (they’re located next to each other!).

• We recommend getting the gelatos from the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company and there are also locally produced chocolates that you can bring home as souvenirs! Some of them have alcohol in the ingredients, so be sure to check before buying.
• The Sabor Dessert Bar serves some of the best desserts in the region such as traditional cheesecakes, classic chocolate cakes, a dozen different flavoured macarons, Portuguese tarts (on occasion) and the multi-award-winninggoing Sabor Portuguese Chocolate Mousse.
• If you’re staying overnight in Hunter Valley, we highly recommend to go on a Balloon Aloft hot air balloon ride where you get to witness Hunter Valley’s breathtaking landscape at sunrise.
• Also, if you’re lucky, you might see kangaroos in the wild here!

• Stop by the charming Leaves and Fishes for lunch where you can get fresh and delicious dishes.
• Enjoy your meal overlooking the pond where you can spot the resident ducks and fishes.

• Some of the must-tries include pineapple and cashew salad, baked half-shell Tasmanian scallops and crisp-skinned ocean trout with miso and lime slaw.

Halal status: No pork but poultry is not halal certified. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 11am to 5pm (Thursday to Monday)

Address: 737 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale NSW 2320, Australia

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• From the Hunter Valley, drive to the Central Coast to meet these cute furry pals. Here’s another experience you can’t get back home - feed and pet the alpacas and llamas!
• Just imagine these cute animals feeding off your hand; what a great sight.
• Feel free to bring bananas, the alpacas love them!
• In Iris Lodge Alpacas, there are more than 140 alpacas for you to feed and pet.
• Not just alpacas, you can also enjoy feeding cows and lambs here too. Perfect for little ones!

Opening hours: 12:30pm -1:15pm (every Friday, Saturday, Sunday). 3pm – 3.45pm (school holidays)

Address: 33 Dunks Lane, Jilliby NSW 2259, Australia

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• Drive to Long Jetty, the longest jetty in NSW at 351 metres.
• We recommend getting takeaway dinner and enjoying it while watching the sunset at the Long Jetty Wharf.
• The sunset is breathtaking and one of the best ones we’ve seen!
• We ordered takeaway pasta from Il Toscano Pasta Bar. They have delicious vegan and seafood pasta, perfect for us Muslims, such as Tagliatelle Funghi (mushroom pasta in white sauce), Lumaca Arrabbiata (Napoletana sauce with chilli and parmesan) and Gnocchi Burro e Salvia (homemade ricotta gnocchi with butter and sage).

Halal status: Serves pork and alcohol but has vegan dishes that are cooked separately. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 5pm - 9pm (closed Mondays and Tuesdays)

Address: 419 The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty NSW 2261, Australia

• We checked in Sapphire Palms Motel that’s located only 800 meters from the Long Jetty Wharf.
• The deluxe family room is equipped with a queen-sized bed and a single bed along with other necessities such as a fridge, a TV, a hair dryer and basic toiletries.
• The hotel also offers basic breakfast such as toast, jams, cereal and milk.
• It’s definitely worth the money if you’re looking for a wallet-friendly stay that won’t break the bank!

Rate per night: Starts from S$ 170/night

Address: 178-182 The Entrance Rd, The Entrance NSW 2261, Australia

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• Stop by Bilpin, a small town known for its locally produced non-alcoholic apple cider. A popular activity to do here includes fruit picking! Depending on the season, you can pick apples, peaches and a variety of berries and stone fruits.
• We went to Pine Crest Orchard where you can pick your own apples, persimmons and even sunflowers!
• They also have a range of products that you can bring home as souvenirs such as jams, honey, juices, non-alcoholic ciders, cider vinegar, walnuts and chestnuts.

Admission fee: $5/adult, $2/Child (3-15yrs)

Opening hours: 10am - 3pm (Opens every Saturday and Sunday from February to April, subject to fruit availability). Check out their website for updates.

9am -5pm (Daily)

Address: 2549 Bells Line of Rd, Bilpin NSW 2758, Australia

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• The Zig Zag Railway is a heritage steam train adventure that feels like stepping back in time—complete with vintage carriages, puffing steam, and breathtaking views of the mountains.
• It’s more than just a ride; it’s a journey through history, winding dramatically through sandstone cliffs and lush bushland.
• You can choose between a 45-minute or 90-minute ride, both departing from Clarence (best reached by car). The longer ride lets you soak in more scenery and old-school train magic, while the shorter option is perfect if you’re short on time but still want that iconic steam-train experience.
• Why ride it? Because where else can you slow down, feel the steam in the air, wave at fellow passengers, and enjoy the Blue Mountains at a wonderfully relaxed pace?
• It’s fun, nostalgic, and a total must-do for families, couples, and anyone who loves a little adventure with a lot of charm.

Address: 840 Chifley Road
Clarence NSW 2790

Opening hours:

Monday to Thursday: Closed

Friday to Sunday:
Operating weekends – 8am to 4:30pm, non-operating weekends – 8am to 2pm

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• Tempus Katoomba is perfect if you’re looking for a restaurant that serves locally sourced dishes that taste and look amazing.
• Each of the dishes are carefully curated and cooked to perfection. Some of the must-tries include chargrilled baby gem, handmade tagliatelle pasta with anchovy and miso eggplant salad. They’re all super delicious!

Halal status: No pork and alcohol are used in the dishes and poultry are not halal certified. We recommend having vegetarian or seafood dishes and dining at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 5pm - late (Friday and Monday), 12pm - late (Saturday and Sunday)

Address: 66 Katoomba St, Katoomba NSW 2780, Australia

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• If you’re in Blue Mountains, Scenic World should be on your itinerary!
• Descend into the Jamison Valley on the world’s steepest train, the Scenic Railway, or glide on the Scenic Cableway past Orphan Rock and the iconic Three Sisters.

• Enjoy a stroll beneath the ancient rainforest canopy at your own pace along the 10-minute, 30-minute or 50-minute Scenic Walkway. The 720-metre journey on the Scenic Skyway provides the best views of Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters, Mt Solitary and Jamison Valley.
• Then, you can return to the main building via the Cableway or the Scenic Railway where you’ll glide past ancient sandstone cliffs, epic valley views and the spectacular Katoomba Falls.
• Check out the Scenic World website to plan your trip!

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (Monday to Friday), 9am - 5pm (Saturday and Sunday)

Address: Violet St &, Cliff Dr, Katoomba NSW 2780, Australia

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• Gasiinsamut Thai Fusion is a halal-certified restaurant serving Thai delicacies.
• Enjoy hot and spicy seafood tom yam, mixed vegetables in chilli and garlic as well as sliced beef salad.

Halal status: The beef and poultry are halal-certified. Alcohol is served in the restaurant and we recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 11am - 9.30pm (Daily)

Address: 172 Katoomba St, Katoomba NSW 2780, Australia

• While you’re here, take the chance to stay overnight and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stargaze!
• It’s a beautiful chance to experience the Southern Sky and its celestial wonders only visible from the Southern hemisphere.
• Led by your local expert guide, you'll learn how to identify stars and constellations with the naked eye and be introduced to planets, satellites, the galaxy and beyond.
• Through professional-grade telescopes, spot the Moon and its craters and seas, Saturn’s rings, the moons of Jupiter, Mars and Venus, the Orion Nebula, star clusters, double and triple stars, deep space objects such as galaxies and the Milky Way as well as shooting stars if you're lucky!

Address: Wentworth Falls Picnic Area, Blue Mountains National Park NSW 2787, Australia

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• During our two-night stay in the Blue Mountains, we stayed at Falls Mountain Retreat, a luxurious yet affordable homestay!
• The apartment features a king-sized bed, a living area, a kitchenette and even a jacuzzi in the bathroom. Perfect to soothe your sore muscles after a long day of exploring!

Rate per night: $104.65/night

Address: The Avenue, Wentworth Falls NSW 2782, Australia

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• The Blue Mountains are a haven for hikers and nature lovers, with numerous lookouts perched along scenic trails offering stunning panoramas of the region’s rugged beauty and plenty of photo opportunities.
• Be sure to check out the NSW National Parks website to plan your visit!
• Do note that some lookout points may be closed for maintenance works or safety reasons.

Narrow Neck Lookout (in Katoomba)

• Ready for views that’ll blow your hair back?
• Catch the bus from Katoomba Station for a breezy 450m stroll to Narrow Neck Lookout!
• Hop on the 686G public bus (look for Stand A just outside the station). It’s a loop service that accepts Opal cards or credit cards. Just hop off at the Narrow Neck Road stops.
• You’ll score front-row seats to the epic Jamison and Megalong Valleys.
• Whether you’re here for a quick snap or a wild hike, it’s pure mountain magic!

Cahill’s Lookout (in Katoomba)

• Looking for the ultimate golden hour glow? Grab a bus from Katoomba Station and take a super easy 1.2 km stroll to Cahill’s Lookout! (It’s also an easy, flat 15-minute walk (roughly 1.2km) from the Narrow Neck Lookout).
• It’s a total sunset paradise with front-row seats to the Megalong Valley and the quirky Boars Head Rock.
• With plenty of platforms to explore, you’re guaranteed a "wow" moment without the crowds!

Jamison Lookout (in Wentworth Falls)

• Ready for some serious eye candy? Head to Jamison Lookout in Wentworth Falls!
• Just a quick bus ride from the station and a cruisy 1 km stroll leads you straight to jaw-dropping vistas of the Jamison Valley.
• It’s the ultimate launchpad for your mountain mission—from here, you can easily trek over to Lincoln Rock or Fletchers Lookout.

Olympian Rock Lookout

• Ready to feel like you’re on top of the world? Take a scenic 1.5 km wander from the gorgeous Leura Cascades to reach Olympian Rock Lookout!
• You’ll be treated to epic, bird’s-eye views of the Jamison Valley and a cheeky side-on peek at the iconic Three Sisters.
• If you’re an early bird, you might even catch the valley filled with a magical "sea of clouds"—it’s a total dream come true for your camera roll!

Echo Point Lookout

• One of the best places to capture the surroundings in a panoramic shot is the Echo Point Lookout, located in Katoomba.
• From this elevated hotspot, you can gaze out across velvet-looking mountains towards the legendary Three Sisters monuments and the National Park as it unfolds beneath you.
• The Honeymoon Bridge allows you to get up close and personal with Three Sisters!
• From Echo Point, follow the path to the Three Sisters Walk to reach the bridge.
• Leading from the top of the Giant Staircase, Honeymoon Bridge is connected to the first sister giving visitors a chance to view the iconic rock formation from a different angle!

Address: Cliff Dr, Katoomba NSW 2780, Australia.

Pulpit Rock

• If you’ve got a head for heights, you'll get a thrill at Pulpit Rock lookout near Blackheath!
• This multi-tiered lookout juts out on a dramatic blade of rock perched high above the magnificent Grose Valley.
• Unpack the picnic basket and enjoy a remote lunch on this isolated pinnacle, far from the popular tourist spots.

Address: Pulpit Rock Track, Blackheath NSW 2570, Australia

Beyond the epic cliffs, you’ve got to check out Leura and Katoomba—two historic gems bursting with personality and cosy vibes!

Leura: The Garden Village

• Prepare for major heart eyes! Leura is a total fairytale, famous for its "garden village" charm.
• Wander down the tree-lined Leura Mall to discover boutique treasures, vintage finds, and bakeries that smell like heaven.
• If you’re here in spring, the Leura Garden Festival is an absolute floral explosion you can’t miss!

Katoomba: The Bohemian Heart

• Just down the road, Katoomba brings the cool, artsy energy. It’s the vibrant hub of the mountains, packed with quirky galleries, retro cafés, and the iconic Carrington Hotel for a fancy step back in time.
• Plus, it’s the gateway to the legendary Scenic World and Echo Point.
• It’s the perfect place to grab a flat white and soak in that "old-world meets edgy" atmosphere!

• Set in a former cinema, the Avalon Restaurant has a retro and quirky vibe, perfect for dinner with your loved ones.
• Some of the must-tries include oven-baked camembert, pan-fried barramundi, oven-baked Atlantic salmon fillet and crumbed eggplant.

Halal status: No pork and alcohol are used in the dishes but the poultry is not halal-certified. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 5.30pm - 9pm (Monday - Friday, closed on Tuesdays), 12pm - 2pm, 5.30pm - 10pm (Saturday and Sunday)

Address: 18 Katoomba St, Katoomba NSW 2780, Australia

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• Take your pick: DFO Homebush or Birkenhead Point Brand Outlet for your shopping needs.

• Primarily known by shoppers for its amazing range of high fashion outlets, at DFO Homebush you’ll find the likes of Burberry Outlet with stylish clothes, leather goods and amazing bags.
• Similarly, the Lacoste Outlet is loved for its classic polos and shoes. The R.M.Williams Outlet is favoured for its Australian-made leather goods including boots, bags and belts.

DFO Homebush

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (Saturday to Wednesday), 10am - 8pm (Thursday and Friday)

Address: 3-5 Underwood Rd, Homebush NSW 2140, Australia

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• Birkenhead Point Brand Outlet is the largest and most established outlet shopping centre in Sydney. It has a total of 170 shops with everything from men’s fashion to women’s fashion and even kids' fashion too.
• There’s even more variety with the likes of the Nike Factory Outlet and the Converse Factory Outlet both offer a great range of discounted sneakers, shoes and clothes.
• For those who love adventure, The North Face Outlet and the Kathmandu Outlet are filled with all your camping and adventure needs.
• You can also grab a meal here! There are two halal restaurants that you can find here: Kubis Kebab House and Gozleme Turkish House.
• You can enjoy your meal in the al fresco dining area overlooking the spectacular harbour views.

Birkenhead Point Brand Outlet

Opening hours: 10am - 5.30pm (Monday - Wednesday, Friday), 10am - 7.30pm (Thursday), 9am - 6pm (Saturday and Sunday)

Address: 19 Roseby St, Drummoyne NSW 2047, Australia

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• Return the car rental — be sure to follow the directions to the car rental return at the international wing of Sydney Airport.
• We checked into the same hotel when we first arrived in Sydney. The premium location is unbeatable!

• On your last day in Sydney, take the ferry from Circular Quay Wharf 4 to Milsons Point Wharf where you can pose for photos at the famous Luna Park entrance.
• Enjoy a ride or two at the world-famous amusement park! Admission to the park is free but you can enjoy unlimited rides with the Luna Park Sydney Day Pass.
• Check out their website for more information.

Address: 1 Olympic Dr, Milsons Point NSW 2061, Australia

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• Walk along the harbour and it’ll take you to the Instagrammable Lavender Bay Wharf which overlooks the Sydney city skyline.

Address: Port Jackson NSW, Australia

• Take the steps behind the wharf and you’ll be in Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden where you can take a breather on one of the benches and take in Sydney’s beautiful views.
• Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden – which is at the foothill of her private home in Lavender Bay – has been nurtured by Whiteley and two gardeners over the past 25 years. They’ve planted natives, exotics, plants and herbs and landscaped the space with winding paths supported by raw bush timber balustrades, benches to sit on, cobbled stairs and retaining walls and paths.

Address: Lavender St, Lavender Bay NSW 2060, Australia

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Looking for more hidden gems in Sydney and beyond? Check out the 10 Hidden Gems In Sydney And Beyond That You Probably Don't Know About

• Get ready for an exhilarating wave-hopping adventure on the powerful Jet Boat Sydney.
• Feel the adrenaline rush with 30 or 45 minutes of high-speed turns, reversals, and spins on the water.
• Take in Sydney's iconic landmarks like the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and Luna Park as you scream with excitement during this unique and adrenaline-filled afternoon experience!

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• From Wendy’s Secret Garden, take the ferry from Milsons Point Wharf to Barangaroo. Enjoy a scenic 18-minute ride and take in the beautiful Sydney Harbour views for one last time.
• Ready to eat some really spicy chickens? BellesHot Chicken in Barangaroo hits all the right spots with their chicken.
• Choose your favourite chicken parts: tender, drumsticks, wings or for the vegan in you - Buffalo cauli.
• Then, choose your spicy level: heat, chicken salt, original (spicy), hot (really spicy).
• There are also chicken sandwiches as well as chicken waffles.

Halal status: Alcohol is served in bottles and cans. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 11.30am - 9pm (Daily)

Address: 5/33 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW 2000, Australia

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Well, there you have it! Sydney is a beautiful cosmopolitan city with plenty of things to do, see and eat. Outside of Sydney, regional New South Wales locations such as Port Stephens, the Hunter Valley and the Blue Mountains are perfect for all your outdoor and adventurous activity needs.

There are plenty of halal restaurants that you can choose from in Sydney and regional New South Wales, meaning that there is no need to pack food from home. We hope this itinerary will help you plan your trip!

This article is brought to you by Destination NSW.

The information is correct at time of writing and subject to change.