Bondi Beach, SydneyCredit: Destination NSW
Swimmers heading out into the ocean from Bondi Beach, Sydney.
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A supercharged calendar packed with world-class shows and showdowns. Music in the balmy night air. The sparkling sunshine spotlighting all the new places, adventures and memories you’ll make. And everywhere, the joy of surprise as you go with the flow in a place where all great things seem possible… There’s nowhere like Sydney in the summer. Ready to make this one your best ever? Here is your ultimate go-outside-and-play list…
Be welcomed into Sydney’s heart
Peek beneath the city’s glittery surface and you’ll see its inclusive heart brings people together. Be inspired as Bangarra Dance Theatre shares Australia’s cultural heritage through powerful Aboriginal storytelling; and get festive as NOËL Sydney brings the Christmas magic with markets, music and spectacular light shows. Dance into the new year as ELEVATE Sydney transforms the Cahill Expressway into party central for four funk-filled days, and as Sydney WorldPride 2023 celebrates all the colours of the LGBTQIA+ rainbow. And, all summer long you can add your voice to the grandstand’s roar as international tennis, cricket and more sporting showdowns makes communities come together to cheer as one.
Set your imagination free
Enjoy every type of creativity under the sun as shows and shindigs light up the city. Since 1871, the Art Gallery of NSW has been a mecca for masterpieces – now it’s a work of art itself, with the Sydney Modern Project unveiling a brand new building, outdoor spaces, and dynamic galleries. At the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Sydney International Art Series hosts Do Ho Suh’s first solo exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere, and you can look behind the seams of designer Carla Zampatti’s life in a world-first retrospective at the Powerhouse. The inspiration continues at the Sydney Festival, with a landmark Frida Kahlo installation, music evoked by Brett Whiteley’s paintings, and performances at 39 venues from Sydney Town Hall to the Riverside Theatres.
ELEVATE Sydney, 2022 Credit: Destination NSW
ELEVATE Sydney, 2022
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ELEVATE Sydney, 2022 Credit: Destination NSW
ELEVATE Sydney, 2022
Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon Credit: Sydney Festival
For the first time in Australia, a unique biographical exhibition allows you to better understand Frida Kahlo, the woman whose perseverance, rebellion and talent placed her eons ahead of her time.
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Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon Credit: Sydney Festival
For the first time in Australia, a unique biographical exhibition allows you to better understand Frida Kahlo, the woman whose perseverance, rebellion and talent placed her eons ahead of her time.
Linger a little longer over a special meal
Refreshing seafood; tangy tropical fruit; the sheer joy of all things barbecued and savoured alfresco… summer serves memorable dining on a platter, and Sydney has a delicious spread of new experiences to tingle your tastebuds. Feast on a fiesta of flavours at two OPEN FOR LUNCH events on 2 December – George Street rolls out a culinary extravaganza with live music and bites from Luke Mangan, Mimi’s and Totti’s; meanwhile at Commbank Stadium, there’s entertainment and a three-course menu designed by Matt Moran. Plus, there are a number of just-opened eateries to explore across the city. At The Charles, there’s elegant eats and Art Deco styling; Maydanoz offers delicious Turkish fare; across the harbour, RAFI’s alfresco areas are the perfect spot to indulge in a chef’s choice banquet; and in Inner Sydney, both Gildas and Fontana plate up standout dishes as colourful as their eclectic surrounds.
Be moved by musical performances
From Field Day’s beats to The Enmore’s indie riffs, Sydney’s summer concerts will make your toes tap – and a range of musicals will move your heart. Feel uplifted as Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of human connection at the Theatre Royal, and as you sing along with the hilarious Cinderella at Sydney Lyric Theatre. Watch your little ones’ faces light up as Madagascar the Musical takes you all on a wild adventure. And immerse yourself in drama as the harbour’s shimmering scenery stars in Carmen on Cockatoo Island – a contemporary remix of the opera classic featuring awe-inspiring fireworks and thrilling car chases.
Take your place in a living postcard
Wash away the everyday on Sydney Harbour. Feel your adrenaline surge as super-maxis thunder across the harbour as the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race begins, and as nine teams battle it out at the SailGP. For a change of pace, explore its secret beaches from your own private charter, or get your hit of Vitamin Sea on a kayak tour, where the sunrise’s golden glow makes you feel like you have this magical playground all to yourself.
The Charles Grand Brasserie & Bar Credit: Steven Woodburn
The Charles Grand Brasserie & Bar, Sydney
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The Charles Grand Brasserie & Bar Credit: Steven Woodburn
The Charles Grand Brasserie & Bar, Sydney
Sailing, Sydney Harbour Credit: Destination NSW
Sun setting over a sail boat on Sydney Harbour.
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Sailing, Sydney Harbour Credit: Destination NSW
Sun setting over a sail boat on Sydney Harbour.
Renew your view and fill your cup
At the city’s freshest rooftop bars, sweeping views make every night feel young. Reconnect with friends at the brand-new Aster Bar, where there’s jaw-dropping 32nd-floor vistas and the expert mixologists create cocktails right at your table. On Crown Towers Sydney’s 26th floor in buzzing Barangaroo, CIRQ offers sophisticated outdoor spaces and bespoke cocktails starring native botanicals. At Zephyr in nearby Darling Harbour, the panoramas are as impressive as the exclusive spirits. And, refresh your perspective with a sky-high thrill – ride to a new rush at Luna Park, see the cityscape through First Nations eyes on a Burrawa BridgeClimb, and explore by door-less helicopter.
Wake up to new inspiration
Sydney’s always adding fresh sparkles to its skyline, and you can sleep amongst them at just-opened stays across the city. In pulsing Paddington, Oxford House offers laidback luxe rooms, eclectic artwork and plush amenities; in nearby Surry Hills, the ultra-cool Ace Hotel pays homage to its former life as an historic brick factory with industrial-chic interiors. In the city centre, the heritage Porter House boasts stylish suites as well as a modern brasserie, delicatessen and lively bar. Beside the harbour, take your pick of dreamy retreats – breathe in the vistas at the just-refurbished Intercontinental Sydney, nestled between the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge; or glamp at historic Cockatoo Island.
Aster Bar Credit: InterContinental Sydney
Aster Bar, InterContinental Sydney
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Aster Bar Credit: InterContinental Sydney
Aster Bar, InterContinental Sydney
Ace Hotel, Sydney Credit: Ace Hotels
The first southern hemisphere hotel from the Ace Hotel Group has now opened in Surry Hills, Sydney
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Ace Hotel, Sydney Credit: Ace Hotels
The first southern hemisphere hotel from the Ace Hotel Group has now opened in Surry Hills, Sydney
Peppers Craigieburn, BowralCredit: Destination NSW
The heritage property at Peppers Craigieburn, Bowral.
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Promenade back in time as Netflix’s Regency-era romp returns for Season Three, escorted by the elegant Bridgerton in Bowral extravaganza from 16-23 April. And whether you’re visiting The Ton for these enchanting festivities or simply searching for a sophisticated sojourn, all year round Bowral offers decadent feasts, opulent stays, charming countryside and more – all just 90 minutes from Sydney. Read on, Gentle Reader, to learn why the Southern Highlands are the Diamond of the Season and beyond.
Make your grand entrance
Emerald hills garnished with vineyards, grand estates and a bewitching village atmosphere… Bowral’s highlights harken back to a most refined moment in history – and now they’re celebrating Bridgerton’s greatly anticipated return with a host of soirees. As befits such a momentous occasion, Empire Cinemas Bowral will host four exclusive screenings for The Ton before the new episodes hit Netflix (from May 16). Plus, you’re cordially invited to a Regency-themed Garden Party amid the stately grounds of the Milton Park Country House Hotel, where you’ll see and be seen in sprawling formal gardens, and enjoy a host of Bridgerton-themed entertainment. Nearby, Retford Park also entices with a picturesque 1887 homestead, self-guided art trail and a picnic-perfect historic garden for all seasons.
Bendooley Estate, Berrima Credit: Destination NSW
The scenic grounds of Bendoley Estate, Berrima.
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Bendooley Estate, Berrima Credit: Destination NSW
The scenic grounds of Bendoley Estate, Berrima.
Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa, Bowral Credit: Destination NSW
The scenic grounds of Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa, Bowral.
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Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa, Bowral Credit: Destination NSW
The scenic grounds of Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa, Bowral.
Sip your way around The Ton
Raise a toast to Lady Whistledown’s long-awaited new chapter with Sohi’s mouth-watering tipples – their premium gin, vodka and vermouth are available to quaff all over town, including at Hearth by Moonacres, Bistro Sociale and The Royal Hotel. And, let your thirst for discovery lead you along the Southern Highlands Wine Trail, where you’ll sample the region’s cool-climate drops at more than 60 vineyards and 15 cellar doors. Swill Tempranillo, Chardonnay, Riesling, Grüner Veltliner, Pinot Gris, Pinot Meunier, Albariño, Pinot Noir and Gewürztraminer at Centennial Vineyards; unwind between the vines at the grand Bendooley Estate; and clink glasses at Mount Ashby Estate, where red, white and culinary delights are served alongside French antiques and lashings of bucolic charm.
Shall we promenade?
Whether you’re courting a suitor or slipping out of the drawing room for fresh air, a gentle wander is one of life’s simple pleasures. Take a leisurely turn through historic Berrima; Australia’s best-preserved Georgian village unveils an intriguing selection of Regency-era relics, including the 1830s Courthouse, convict-built Surveyor General Inn and the National Trust-listed Harper’s Mansion. Bask in the majesty of manicured gardens in Bowral, Mossvale, and Robertson, where lavish plantings reveal nature’s extravagance – especially during the Tulip Time festival each spring. Afterwards, assemble your favourite dukes and duchesses to while away the day with croquet, cycle between quaint villages, or saddle up your trusty steeds for a relaxing meander along the Canyonleigh Trails.
Centennial Vineyards, Bowral Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a romantic getaway at Centennial Vineyards, Bowral.
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Centennial Vineyards, Bowral Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a romantic getaway at Centennial Vineyards, Bowral.
Bendooley Estate, Berrima Credit: Destination NSW
Autumn at Bendooley Estate, Berrima.
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Bendooley Estate, Berrima Credit: Destination NSW
Autumn at Bendooley Estate, Berrima.
Discover the talk of The Ton
Bowral boasts a bounty of treasures old, new and noteworthy if you’re seeking a modiste-crafted frock for your society debut, exploring the arts, or collecting key pieces to makeover your manor. Start with a visit to Dirty Janes, a unique marketplace where 90 individual sellers peddling all manner of retro, vintage, antique and artisan-made finds. Indulge your guilty pleasure for scandalous storytelling at Books Ever After, a romance-genre specialist home to an impressive selection of special editions to tantalise your imagination. And, take your cue from Bridgerton’s elite and let your impeccable taste in art and furnishings do the talking. The Ngununggula Southern Highlands Regional Gallery, Bowral Art Gallery and Milk Factory Gallery showcase the cultured art and soul of this inspired region, while Suzie Anderson Home has a wide range of premium style essentials to create your own Regency-influenced sanctuary.
Retreat to elegant chambers
From plush private residences to luxe suites catering for your every whim, the Southern Highlands offers a host of auspicious accommodations worthy of society’s highest echelon. Revel in the prestige of a grand estate to call your own on the grounds of The Rift Estate. This palatial 19th Century mansion presents a self-contained Coach House to accommodate 13 people, complete with cosy fireplaces, claw-foot bathtubs and lush lawns perfect for croquet and bocce. For a gracious stay amid rustic vistas reminiscent of the English countryside, look no further than the five-star boutique hotel, Osborn House. Nearby, the chic comforts continue at the Georgian Moss Manor, where thoughtful creativity and interior design unite for an exclusive art-hotel experience. Around the town, the historic flair also rolls into the early 20th Century, with the Berida Hotel, Peppers Craigieburn and the Links House Hotel delivering memorable stays where modern amenity and heritage flourishes converge. Wherever you choose to rest your tiara-toting head, you can find your own Bridgerton in Bowral all year round.
Osborn House, Bundanoon Credit: Stephanie Hunter
One of the Premier Suites at Osborn House.
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Osborn House, Bundanoon Credit: Stephanie Hunter
One of the Premier Suites at Osborn House.
Bradman Museum, Bowral Credit: Destination NSW
Exploring sporting history at the Bradman Museum, Bowral, Southern Highlands
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Bradman Museum, Bowral Credit: Destination NSW
Exploring sporting history at the Bradman Museum, Bowral, Southern Highlands