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. Recently, 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!
Psst… Enjoy up to $30 off Sydney and New South Wales attractions on Klook! Find out the promo code on their website.
Sydney travel essentials
Airport Transfers
- Start your journey stress-free with Klook’s airport transfers!
- Book a car based on your travel group (there’s even an option for car seats!) and you’ll be dropped off at your destination in comfort.
P/S: Make sure to equip yourself with travel insurance too!
WiFi or eSIM
- Being connected is important during travelling, be it for sharing your photos or even staying connected with your loved ones.
- Choose which one’s the best for you: a pocket WiFi, an eSIM or a physical SIM card.
Sydney Pass
- If you’re planning to hit all of Sydney’s best attractions, then the Sydney Pass is your best friend!
- Choose up to six attractions and you can save up to 36% when you book your Sydney Pass on Klook!
Getting around Sydney
- 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 prefer a stress-free sightseeing day, we recommend getting the Sydney Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour on Klook! Choose between the Discover, Essential and Explore tours with unlimited stops and two route options.
- If you’re visiting Sydney on a weekend, there’s a weekend travel cap at cap $8.40 a day for adults and $4.20 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!
Day 1: Visit Sydney's iconic landmarks
Lunch at The Potting Shed, Alexandria (1 hr)
- 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
The Rocks and Sydney Harbour Bridge (1-2 hrs)
- Walk towards the Museum of Contemporary Art from the Circular Quay light rail station. If you have time, schedule a visit! Entrance is free for the permanent exhibitions and be sure to check out the fantastic view of Sydney Harbour from the rooftop cafe! Check out their website for more information.
- 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 Saturday and 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.
- Book your Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb with Klook for a stress-free experience!
- 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.
Sydney Opera House (30 min)
- 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.
- Book a tour of the Sydney Opera House on Klook for a stress-free trip!
- 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.
- If you don’t want to be disappointed by sold-out shows, get your opera show tickets on Klook where you’ll be guaranteed a ticket!
- You can choose to watch one show among nine of your favourite opera performances shown throughout the 2023 season.
Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Alternatively, you can visit Sydney Tower Eye (1 hr)
- Situated at a height of 250 meters above ground level, Sydney Tower 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.
- Your ticket includes a Digi Photo Pass worth $26, granting you unlimited digital photos.
- If you're feeling adventurous, dare to try the Skywalk!
- The Sydney Tower Eye Experience is available for booking on Klook!
Pray at Sydney CBD Masjid (30 mins)
- 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 Aquarium, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, 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
Dinner at Nick’s Seafood (1 hr)
- 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! ?
- 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
Budget-friendly accommodation in Sydney
- 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!
- Book your stay on Klook and enjoy great savings!
Rate per night: S$175/night
Address: 717 George St, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia
Psst… Enjoy up to $30 off Sydney and New South Wales attractions on Klook! Find out the promo code on their website.
Day 2: Bondi Beach, Sydney Fish Market and Taronga Zoo
Breakfast at bills (1 hr)
- 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
Bondi Beach and Bondi Icebergs (2-3 hrs)
- 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.
Credit: Destination NSW
- 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: $9 (adult), $6 (12 years old and under), and $25 (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
Bondi to Coogee coastal walk (2-3 hrs)
- 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.
Lunch at Sydney Fish Market (1-2 hrs)
- Did you know that the Sydney Fish Market is the largest fish market in the Southern Hemisphere? The vendors sell approximately 52 tonnes of seafood per day and it even rivals some of Japan’s fish market!
- More than just a fish market, you can also sit and enjoy the freshest seafood here as it’s also home to some of the best seafood restaurants in New South Wales ?
- Browse through the many stalls and take your pick. You can enjoy your meal in the alfresco area overlooking the waters.
- We enjoyed fresh sashimi, a variety of sushi, lobster roll, blow-torched cheesy scallops, pan-fried salmon and chips, as well as freshly shucked Sydney Rock Oysters!
- If you prefer your seafood cooked Asian-style, then Christie’s Kitchen is the place. Seafood such as mussels, mud crabs, and Southern Rock lobsters can be cooked in different sauces such as black pepper, garlic butter, salted egg sauce and more!
- Take your visit to the Sydney Fish Market as an educational experience as well and join the Sydney Fish Market Behind the Scenes Tour.
- You can learn more about where your seafood comes from and the steps taken by the Australian seafood industry to ensure your seafood is sustainable.
- The best part is, you’ll have the chance to go to the auction floor which is closed to the public! You’ll see the Dutch auction system in action where more than 50 tonnes of fresh seafood is sold to more than a hundred buyers!
- The ticket price for an adult is $50 and $20 for children aged 10 to 13.
- Do note that a face mask and enclosed shoes are required for the two-hour tour.
- Don't miss this chance of a lifetime and book your whale-watching cruise on Klook now!
Opening hours: 7am - 4pm
Address: Corner Pyrmont Bridge Rd &, Bank St, Pyrmont NSW 2009, Australia
Taronga Zoo (3-4 hrs)
- 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!
- Alternatively, you can get to Taronga Zoo on Captain Cook Cruises' comfortable ferry and soak in breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour. The package includes admission to the zoo, so you’ll save up more!
- 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!
- Skip the queue and get your Taronga Zoo ticket on Klook!
- 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
Dinner on a harbour cruise (3 hrs)
- 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 on Klook 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.
Alternatively, you can try a helicopter ride
- Embark on an extraordinary helicopter flight over Sydney's landmarks for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Opera House, Taronga Zoo, Bondi Beach, and the Harbour Bridge from a luxurious helicopter.
- Select from Scenic, Private, or Fly by Night packages, all featuring complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, pilot photos, and BOSE commentary for an enhanced experience.
- For a distinct thrill, witness Sydney's illuminated skyline from the exclusive Eurocopter EC135 at night.
Book the thrilling helicopter ride on Klook!
Day 3: Drive to Port Stephens (2.5hour drive, 148km from Sydney)
- We started our day bright and early! First, it’s time to pick up our car rental at Sydney Airport.
- We booked our car rental through Klook and it was a breezy process as we just showed the booking on the mobile app to Sixt, the car rental company.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!
Tips on driving in New South Wales
- 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!
Budget-friendly accommodation in Port Stephens
- 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.
- Book your stay at Port Stephens Motel on Klook and enjoy great savings!
Rate per night: S$200/night
Address: 44 Magnus St, Nelson Bay NSW 2315, Australia
Camel ride (30 min)
- 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$40 for adults, AUD$30 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
Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounter (1-2 hrs)
- Sydney itineraryContinue your adventure in Port Stephens at the Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounter 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!
- Save more and get your ticket to the Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters on Klook!
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (Daily)
Address: 2 Jessie Rd, Anna Bay NSW 2316, Australia
Dinner at Authentic Thai Restaurant (1 hr)
- 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
Here are other things you can do in Port Stephens
Credit: Moonshadow ‐ TQC Cruises on Facebook
- 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!
Credit: Oakvale Wildlife Park on Facebook
- 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!
Not driving? Don’t worry! Sign up for the Port Stephens Full Day Tour From Sydney with Klook and you can choose to experience Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters, Sand Duning or Dolphin Cruise!
Day 4: Port Stephens - Tomaree Head and Sand Dune Adventures
Tomaree Head Summit Walk (1-2 hrs)
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
Lunch at Cook-a-barra Restaurant & Function Centre (1 hr)
- 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
Quad biking in Stockton Sand Dunes (1 hr)
- 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 Klook and it was super easy to redeem — just show the operator your mobile app!
- 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
Dinner takeaway from John Dory’s Takeaway
- 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
Day 5: Port Stephens – the Hunter Valley (1hr 50min, 117km) – the Central Coast (1hr 20min, 93km from Hunter Valley)
Hunter Valley Chocolate Company or Sabor Dessert Bar (30 mins)
- 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!
Lunch at Leaves and Fishes (1hr)
- 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
Iris Lodge Alpacas Farm (1-2 hrs)
- 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 70 alpacas for you to feed and pet.
- Not just alpacas, you can also enjoy feeding cows and lambs here too. Perfect for little ones!
- Enjoy a stress-free trip and get your tickets on Klook!
Opening hours: 12:30pm -1:15pm (every Friday, Saturday, Sunday). 3pm – 3.45pm (school holidays)
Address: 33 Dunks Lane, Jilliby NSW 2259, Australia
Have dinner while enjoying the sunset at Long Jetty Wharf (2 hrs)
- 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
Budget-friendly accommodation in Long Jetty
- 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
Day 6: the Central Coast – the Blue Mountains (1hr 30min, 133km)
Stop by Bilpin and try non-alcoholic apple cider
- 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: AUD$2/person or $5/family of 2 adults and 2 children.
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
Budget-friendly accommodation in the Blue Mountains
- 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
Lunch at Tempus Katoomba (1hr)
Sydney itinerary
- 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
Scenic World (2-3hrs)
- 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. Why decide when you can enjoy both when you get the unlimited pass on Klook?
- 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
Psst… Save up and get the Blue Mountains Scenic World Ticket on Klook where you can enjoy unlimited rides on the Scenic Walkway, Scenic Skywalk and Scenic Railway!
Dinner at Gasiinsamut Thai Fusion (1hr)
- 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
Stargazing tour (2hrs)
Credit: Liam Foster
- 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!
- Get your stargazing tour in the Blue Mountains on Klook and enjoy a stress-free trip!
Address: Wentworth Falls Picnic Area, Blue Mountains National Park NSW 2787, Australia
Day 7: Blue Mountains Scenic lookout points and Jenolan Caves
Enjoy unparalleled views at different lookout points (30min-1hr)
- Be sure to check out the NSW National Parks website to plan your visit!
- Some lookout points may be closed for maintenance works or safety reasons.
Lincoln Rock
- Located south of Wentworth Falls on the Kings Tableland plateau, Lincoln’s Rock is one of the most impressive lookout points in the Blue Mountains.
- The all-encompassing views of Jamison Valley changes colour throughout the day as the sun and clouds move overhead — we recommend you bring some snacks and drinks to enjoy the view!
- With sweeping views of Jamison Valley and beyond, Lincoln’s Rock is a unique spot that is well worth a visit.
- You can drive to Lincoln’s Rock (there’s a free parking area) or hike. The hiking trail starts from Chester Road. From there, follow the Chester Trail and the Little Switzerland Trail to Lincoln’s Rock. It’s a pleasant and easy 40-minutes walk to the lookout.
Address: 51 Little Switzerland Dr, Wentworth Falls NSW 2782, Australia
Echo Point and Honeymoon Bridge
- 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
No car? No problem! You can still get to the enchanting Blue Mountains with Klook’s Blue Mountains One Day Tour. You’ll have the chance to visit a wildlife park, Echo Point, the Three Sisters, and Scenic World!
Jenolan Caves (3-4 hours)
- Jenolan Caves is one of the great natural spectacles in Australia: the most ancient open caves in the world with arguably the most beautiful limestone formations ?
- Tucked into a remote valley in the southern Blue Mountains National Park, this labyrinth of stalactite-lined chasms carved by pure underground rivers is a must-do extension for any visit to the Blue Mountains.
- It takes about a 2-hour drive from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves and you have to be at the entrance at least an hour before your tour as there’ll be a vehicle to escort you down the hills to the caves. So, be sure to time your schedule!
- We took the “Imperial Cave Tour” where we witnessed an ancient underground river with pure blue waters and saw the awesome ‘Crystal Cities’.
- There are different tours that you can join based on your fitness level.
- You can book the cave tour on Klook.
Address: 4655 Jenolan Caves Rd, Jenolan NSW 2790, Australia
Dinner at the historic Avalon Restaurant (1 hr)
- 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
Day 8: The Blue Mountains - Sydney (50min, 60km)
Stop by DFO Homebush or Birkenhead Point Brand Outlet on your way to Sydney (1-2 hrs)
- 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
- 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
Return car rental and check-in hotel (30 mins)
- 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!
Dinner at Ed Ae' Unique Thai Cafe 1982
- This halal-certified Thai restaurant is only a 6-minute walk from the hotel!
- The service staff are Thai so you know you’re getting authentic Thai food!
- It serves all the best Thai dishes and we highly recommend getting seafood tom yam, crispy oysters, mango sticky rice, fried wagyu and Thai tea bingsu.
Halal status: Halal-certified.
Opening hours: 11.30am - 11pm
Address: 704A George St, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia
Day 9: Last day in Sydney
Pose for photos at the Insta-worthy Luna Park, Lavender Bay Wharf, and Wendy’s Secret Garden (1 hr)
- 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
- 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
- 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
Alternatively, try the Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Adventure (1hr)
- Get ready for an exhilarating wave-hopping adventure on the powerful Thunder Jet.
- 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!
- Book your Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Adventure on Klook for a stress-free experience!
Grab lunch at Barangaroo (1 hr) before your flight home
- 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? Belles Hot 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: Halal-certified chicken. 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
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!
Psst… Enjoy up to $30 off Sydney and New South Wales attractions on Klook! Find out the promo code on their website.
This article is brought to you by Destination NSW.