Murray Rose Pool, Double BayCredit: Destination NSW
Harbour views from Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
#feelnewsydney
Connect with the true essence of Sydney by mingling with the friendly locals and discovering the vibrant energy that defines the city. Beyond its stunning landmarks, Sydney invites you to experience its warmth and charm.
Celebrate the Spirit of Sydney
Summertime is peak Sydney, and the city is buzzing with the Sydney Festival - a cultural talent wave that includes live acts under the stars, thespians, poets, acrobats, singers and unexpected art instillations.
Slip into your favourite leopard print for nights of purely ‘beastly’ entertainment. Siegfred & Roy: The Unauthorised Opera tells the glam/tragic story of the late Las Vegas pair - the illusionist and the big cat whisperer. Award-winning tenor, Kanen Breen is the ill-fated tiger-wrangler, Roy, and acclaimed baritone Christopher Tonkin is absolutely mesmerising as the illusionist Siegfried.
Then consider taking in Animal by Canada’s acclaimed Cirque Alfonse at Parramatta’s Riverside Theatres in Western Sydney. Animal is a journey of discovery through a series of `Insta-worthy’ farm fables, which includes jaw-dropping acrobatics, daring juggling feats, tap dancing, absurd humour and even a tractor doing wheelies, all designed to have you in a spin.
Parramatta Park is also the setting for Sydney Symphony Under the Stars a spectacular night of classical music, which culminates in fireworks, on January 18. The newly opened Sydney Metro West takes around 20 minutes from the CBD to Parramatta.
Back at Harbourside, The Moonshine Bar on the waterfront at the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct is set to become your festival hangout at The Thirsty Mile, which boasts seven theatres, exhibition spaces and so much more.
This bar has many personalities, There’s a Colour Maze, for kids and a cafe by day and free music and DJs by night. It’s like having your own club, only with no membership fees or dress code.
Reflect, Respect and Honour for Australia Day
The essence of our culture is the Dawn Reflection and WugulOra Morning Ceremony to acknowledge Australia’s shared history and First Nations people. Thrill to the Ferrython as Sydney’s favourite vessels compete to cheers from the crowd. At Midday, Royal Australian Air Force Roulettese will soar above the sky. There’s also regattas, tall ships, wheelchair marathons and a Mega Kids Zone at Circular Quay, which is just a few of the events. Then put on your dancing shoes for the free Australia Day concert at the Opera House, headlined way Ben Lee, Sheppard and Dragon.
Savour the City's Decadent Dining
Follow the rumble of the Martini Trolley at Bar Tilda, just a short stroll from the Sydney Opera House at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, which recently had a $70 million facelift. Bar Tilda is just one of the hotel’s enticing bars and restaurants. Take an elevator ride to the fifth floor (once a sacred site for Sydney’s socialites), to discover Delta Rue, a lively Vietnamese-French restaurant, which is getting rave reviews.
Alternatively, dive into Neptune’s Grotto, a subterranean restaurant also close to Circular Quay that is decorated with a life-size classical stature of Neptune, so you’re in excellent company. With Italian pop music pumping, nab one of the booths and order a feast of Northern Italian food.
When you’re hungry for something spicy at lunchtime, this Malay Chinese noodle bar, tucked away in an arcade between George and Pitt Streets, near Circular Quay is unbeatable. Eat lunch early or join the queue, which lengthens around 12.30pm weekdays for a bowl of Prawn Laksa or any other noodle dish you fancy. It’s a taste sensation but it is hot, so bring plenty of tissues. But note, it’s only open Monday to Friday.
Salute the Dawn at Bronte Beach
The 440 Run Club is a free Saturday morning running club that is open to everyone at any fitness level. Meet in the park in front of Bronte Beach in the dark, and join a crew of all ages and backgrounds to run, jog or even walk up and down a hill in a continuous loop. Sunrise over this beautiful beach never looked so good.
Afterwards go cafe hopping at the beachside strip and nab one of the outdoor tables for pinch-yourself views. The Bogey Hole Cafe is a great place to start.
If you’re still full of beans, do the stunning Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. Follow the scenic pathway back to Bondi or go further afield to another action-packed beach suburb, Coogee. This is also where you’ll find one of Sydney’s Insta-famous restaurants, Mimi’s.
Sydney Festival 2025, Dawes Point Credit: Destination NSW
Couple experiencing the Colour Maze interactive installation during Sydney Festival 2025 at Walsh Bay Arts Precinct.
#feelnewsydney
Sydney Festival 2025, Dawes Point Credit: Destination NSW
Couple experiencing the Colour Maze interactive installation during Sydney Festival 2025 at Walsh Bay Arts Precinct.
Bronte Beach, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Surfer heading out to catch a wave at Bronte Beach, Sydney.
#feelnewsydney
Bronte Beach, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Surfer heading out to catch a wave at Bronte Beach, Sydney.
The Beat Goes On At The People’s Playground
Nielsen Park and the netted Shark Beach is quite simply ravishingly beautiful with a dress circle view of the harbour. This incredible spot has only just reopened after two long summers. Grab some fish and chips and an Aperol Spritz from The Kiosk and find yourself a wooden table and chairs outside. Also on offer, lush green parkland for the perfect picnic and sublime coastal walks. Best of all, it’s just a short drive from the city or take the 325 bus.
Go Boho In Bondi
Sydney’s famous Bondi has plenty of trophy hang outs including Icebergs Dining Room and Bar and Promenade Bondi Beach, but it also has a Boho beating heart. At North Bondi (which is where the locals swim), refill at heritage cafe, Speedos or drop into the laid-back Bondi RSL filled with interesting characters and extraordinary views of the beach.
Explore the shopping thoroughfare of Gould Street with signature store, Tuchuzy and keep walking all the way to the Bondi Farmer’s Market.
Other boho outposts include Gertrude & Alice bookstore and cafe on Hall Street, UpSouth on Bondi Road, Bondi Tony’s for Aussie Burgers in Glenayr Avenue, and Shop & Wine Bar in Curlewis Street Bondi.
Heritage, Art and Harbourside Delights
Sydney’s Parliament House, steeped in colonial history, is open to the public every Monday and Friday. The Legislative Assembly chamber (also known as the bear pit) is the place where laws are made with vigorous debate. Afterwards take a stroll across the Domain to the Art Gallery Of NSW. Head to the newly opened and architecturally amazing North Wing - Naala Badu - for lunch at MOD. Dining by Clayton Wells.
Finish your day with some soothing drinks at The Library Bar at the State Library of New South Wales or head across to the Intercontinental Hotel’s scenic Aster Bar for cocktails accompanied by stunning views right down the harbour.
Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Bondi Icebergs and surrounds, Bondi
#feelnewsydney
Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Bondi Icebergs and surrounds, Bondi
Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a visit the the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney.
#feelnewsydney
Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a visit the the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney.
Pining for Manly
Board the Manly Ferry for the 30-minute voyage to Manly - the beachside suburb, ringed with ancient Norfolk Pine trees where it always seems to be holiday time.
Check into the newly revamped Manly Pacific MGallery with its opulent appointments but fairly modest rates. Book into the hotel’s soon-to-be-opened beach-facing eatery, Cibaria. It’s billed as a `Spaghetteria Bisteccheria Gelateria’ with a dining pedigree, controlled by one of the city’s best chefs and lashings of Italian hospitality. You could also consider Pepper’s Manly Beach, which also just across the road from the ocean front.
The Corso runs from the Harbour side to the beachside and offers interesting eateries including Butter Boy for their famous cookies baked on the spot, Norma’s Deli for excellent sandwiches, cakes, and traditional Greek spreads, and Henry G’s Wine Parlour, which promises an unparalleled experience blending curated wines, delectable pintxos, and an ambience that pays homage to the timeless allure of the 1800s.
Go for a stroll to Shelly Beach where you may encounter some harmless Eastern Water Dragons sun baking on the rocks along the way and ready for their close up. Dip into the water at the beach or the ocean pool then head to The Boathouse Shelly Beach where you order at the bar and find your own table. Dine on everything from pizza and salads to fish and chips and drink in the celebratory atmosphere with the laid back locals.
Discover Double Bay
Double Bay is Sydney’s most luxe village. It boasts plenty of hair salons along with decadent day spas, excellent shopping and five-star restaurants and bars. Head to All Saint Clinic for pure indulgence where the treatment menu includes the Fire & Ice facial.
Next visit the famous Joh Bailey Salon for a blow out or head to La Boutique in Transvaal Avenue, where owner Belinda Jeffries is the blonde whisperer.
Celebrate the newly refreshed you with a lunch at Margaret Double Bay, owned by prestigious Icon Awards winner, Neil Perry. Take an outdoor table to make your own contribution to Double Bay’s street life, then duck downstairs to the newly opened cocktail bar, Bobbie’s.
You could also have a drink on the deck at a popular locals’ hang out, the 18 Footers Bar Restaurant & Cafe, which is right next to the Double Bay Ferry Wharf. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sun setting over the harbour and then hop on a ferry back to Circular Quay.
Go Outlet Shopping For Local Designer Fashion In Rosebery
Some of Australia’s best known designer labels including Zimmermann; Aje; Camilla & Marc, Viktoria & Woods and Rebecca Vallance and Bassike are located at the historic fashion and lifestyle precinct, Rosebery Engine Yards. Recharge after your shop with delicious Gelato Messina, also on site, or treat yourself at Lune Crossianterie, renowned for its exceptional crossiants.
Congratulations, you have now enjoyed a sparkling taste of Sydney at its best.
Manly Pacific Credit: Manly Pacific
Coastal Suites at Manly Pacific Bedroom
#feelnewsydney
Manly Pacific Credit: Manly Pacific
Coastal Suites at Manly Pacific Bedroom
Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a walk by Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay.
#feelnewsydney
Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a walk by Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay.
More Inspirational Stories
Oxford Street Fair, Sydney WorldPride 2023, SydneyCredit: Destination NSW
Couple dancing at the Oxford Street Party, a part of Sydney World Pride, a 17-day celebration of queer Australian people and culture, with more than 300 events across the city â including Sydney's famous Mardi Gras Parade.
#feelnewsydney
Dive Into Sydney's LGBTQIA+ Nightlife
Oxford Street Fair, Sydney WorldPride 2023, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
#feelnewsydney
While Sydney’s LGBTQIA+ nightlife is loud and proud all year round, it’ll be truly buzzing when Mardi Gras 2025 celebrates Australia’s queer communities with fabulous events, parties and concerts from 14 February to 2 March 2025. Shimmy onto a packed dancefloor or gather your tribe in an intimate corner booth — there are plenty of LGBTQIA+ venues to enjoy across the city’s queer-friendly neighbourhoods.
Party all night in Darlinghurst and Surry Hills
Feel right at home at the Darlinghurst end of Oxford Street, Sydney’s LGBTQIA+ heartland and the setting of the annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. Ease into the scene with a beer or a cocktail at The Colombian Hotel, a multi-level pub occupying a prime position on the corner of Oxford and Crown streets in Darlinghurst. Count your blessings if you can snag a stool at the venue’s long open window — you can settle in for an epic session of people-watching.
Lose track of time as you dance and dine across the four levels of the iconic Oxford Hotel, a couple of minutes’ walk up Oxford Street from the Colombian. Or step back in time a few doors down from the Oxford Hotel at Palms on Oxford, which draws an inclusive crowd for its classic disco and pop from the ‘80s, ‘90s, and ’00s from Thursday to Sunday. And strike up random conversations with strangers in between drag shows at the busy Stonewall Hotel, across the road from The Oxford Hotel on Oxford Street.
Launch yourself into the local clubbing scene at Oxford Street’s Universal, a dual-level space with dancing downstairs and drag and performances upstairs, and Darlinghurst institution Arq, which has reopened its Arena dancefloor and Vortex performance space, just off Taylor Square on Flinders Street, following extensive renovations. Dance the night away amid confetti cannons, Australian pop royalty and Sydney’s biggest drag acts at POOF DOOF, an all-inclusive party that takes over the top two floors of Kinselas on Taylor Square each Saturday night.
Take a breather at The Beresford, arguably Sydney’s most upscale queer haunt that’s only a few minutes’ walk away from Taylor Square on leafy Bourke Street in Surry Hills. Refresh with a drink in the leafy courtyard during the popular Sunday afternoon DJ sessions, perhaps lingering to head upstairs to dance later in the evening.
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2023, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Celebrating the colourful collision of creativity and culture across our communities, the world renowned Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade unites hundreds of thousands of revellers for the biggest night on the LGBTQIA+ calendar.
#feelnewsydney
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2023, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Celebrating the colourful collision of creativity and culture across our communities, the world renowned Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade unites hundreds of thousands of revellers for the biggest night on the LGBTQIA+ calendar.
Universal Sydney, Darlinghurst Credit: Destination NSW
Artist performing for Fireball Fridays at Universal Sydney, Darlinghurst.
#feelnewsydney
Universal Sydney, Darlinghurst Credit: Destination NSW
Artist performing for Fireball Fridays at Universal Sydney, Darlinghurst.
Fire your imagination in Newtown and surrounds
Spread your wings and explore Sydney’s inner west, a ring of suburbs close to the city centre that are home to many of the city’s bohemian and LGBTQIA+ residents. Feel your senses come alive as you make your way down colourful King Street in Newtown and adjoining Enmore Road in Enmore, encountering small bars, cafés and venues that welcome queer and non-queer patrons in equal measure. Restore your energy levels with a refreshing drink at safe spaces for rainbow communities like Newtown Hotel, The Bank Hotel and the Marlborough Hotel, or ‘the Marly’, which hosts regular queer events.
Join a raucous basement party at the inner west’s quintessential LGBTQIA+ venue, The Imperial, a few minutes’ walk away from Newtown in Erskineville, catch a drag show over dinner at The Impy’s Priscillas restaurant, or head upstairs for pizza with a side dish of dirty Italian disco at Carlotta’s Rooftop bar.
Catch experimental theatre, a sweaty rave or a blistering punk gig at The Red Rattler, a queer-run non-profit venue established to amplify the voices of Sydney’s non-conforming artists and performers in Marrickville, a 10-minute drive from Newtown.
The Imperial Erskineville Credit: Destination NSW
Drag artists getting ready for Drag n' Dine at The Imperial Erskineville in Sydney's inner west.
#feelnewsydney
The Imperial Erskineville Credit: Destination NSW
Drag artists getting ready for Drag n' Dine at The Imperial Erskineville in Sydney's inner west.
Bank Hotel, Newtown Credit: James Horan; Destination NSW
Bank Hotel on King Street in Newtown
#feelnewsydney
Bank Hotel, Newtown Credit: James Horan; Destination NSW
Bank Hotel on King Street in Newtown
Connect with locals at events and parties
Celebrate inclusiveness at the biggest event on the LGBTQIA+ calendar, the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, though you’ll also find plenty happening outside the regular Mardi Gras festival period in February and March.
Leather up and head along to an Extra Dirty dance party at a variety of venues across the city. Find like-minded lesbians at the sophisticated Lemons With A Twist get-togethers on the first Friday of the month at the Burdekin Hotel in Darlinghurst. And dip into the city’s bear culture at Bear Essentials, Harbour City Bears’ massive disco held each year during the Mardi Gras festival, or join the gay social group at inclusive gatherings each Friday night at the Oxford Hotel in Darlinghurst and on Sunday afternoons at the Town Hall Hotel in Newtown.
Connect with the Queer As Fvck crew, which hosts gigs by local independent rock bands along with DJs and drag artists, if you prefer guitars to glitter balls. Or lean more alternative with the House of Mince’s regular Club Mince events, which often feature edgy international DJs and rappers.
And look for the next pop-up event by Heaps Gay, which seeks out under-utilised indoor and outdoor spaces for 12-hour fiestas. Heaps Gay events are so friendly and inclusive that they’ve become popular with non-LGBTQIA+ patrons too.
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2023, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Celebrating the colourful collision of creativity and culture across our communities, the world renowned Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade unites hundreds of thousands of revellers for the biggest night on the LGBTQIA+ calendar.
#feelnewsydney
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2023, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Celebrating the colourful collision of creativity and culture across our communities, the world renowned Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade unites hundreds of thousands of revellers for the biggest night on the LGBTQIA+ calendar.
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2023, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Celebrating the colourful collision of creativity and culture across our communities, the world renowned Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade unites hundreds of thousands of revellers for the biggest night on the LGBTQIA+ calendar.
#feelnewsydney
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2023, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Celebrating the colourful collision of creativity and culture across our communities, the world renowned Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade unites hundreds of thousands of revellers for the biggest night on the LGBTQIA+ calendar.