This seafront city in the southern hemisphere certainly has the wow factor, capturing the imaginations of all who walk through its coast-hugging botanic garden, encounter the fan-like sails of the Sydney Opera House and admire the striking steel arch that spans from the CBD to the North Shore. These Sydney icons are cherished emblems of the city and of Australia itself. But while observing their beauty leaves a lasting impression, going behind the scenes makes them all the more spectacular…
Go Beyond The Sails
As you walk around the Sydney Opera House’s exterior, you will get a glimpse of the magnitude and intricacy of its construction, but that’s only half of the story. Inside, you’ll discover mesmerising music halls that take acoustics to the next level and when you lean in a little closer, its remarkable stories come to the fore. For instance, did you know that the original Danish architect never got to see his completed masterpiece? On the Tour & Dine package, you can digest the building’s fascinating history over a leisurely lunch by the harbour at the Opera Bar or House Canteen. Discover their full range of daily performances, tours and experiences at sydneyoperahouse.com/tours-and-experiences
Feel On Top Of The World
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of Australia’s most celebrated structures that can be spotted from every angle of the city. Although, have you ever wondered what it might be like to view the skyline from the bridge itself? This unique perspective is made possible by Bridgeclimb Sydney. As you reach the summit with an entertaining and knowledgeable Climb Leader, its engineering story is brought to life while you soak up the jaw-dropping 360-degree views. Every day on the bridge is special, which has led to over 5,000 proposals and more than 30 weddings have taken place at the top! Book your climb at bridgeclimb.com
Abseil In The Blue Mountains
Just a couple of hours west of Sydney’s Central Station lies the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains Area. At the dedicated viewing platforms such as the Three Sisters Lookout, a trio of rocky outcrops emerge from the lush tree canopy shrouded in a misty haze, giving just a snapshot of the phenomenal panoramas to be found in this stunning natural landscape. But for a real taste of mountain life, the Blue Mountains Adventure Company have an incredible selection of action-packed itineraries to create vivid memories embedded in nature. From guided walks and canyoning tours to rock climbing, abseiling and more, they have expert guides and top equipment so you can scale the canyon walls and become immersed in the magic of the rainforest. Plan your next Blue Mountains adventure at bmac.com.au
Chic City Crashpad: Ace Hotel Sydney
With so much to see and do in the Harbour City, you’ll need a base in the thick of it all. The 5-star Ace Hotel Sydney rubs shoulders with the Central Business District in the Surry Hills, making it a convenient location for accessing the key attractions and direct trains to the Blue Mountains. Housed in a former brick factory, the retro urban interiors embrace the warm terracotta and clay tones of its former purpose while featuring all the building blocks for a luxurious stay. There are two superb eateries on-site, including the contemporary Australian rooftop restaurant called Kiln and LOAM for laidback all-day dining. The Lobby bar is another social hotspot where craft cocktails, small plates and resident DJs get the party started in the evenings. From quiet nights to group gatherings and stylish city weddings, the team ace the mood-boosting details to create an atmosphere you’ll want to return to.
Getting There
To plan your itinerary in Sydney, explore visitnsw.com for useful travel resources and visit emirates.com to book your seamless travel to Australia. Return flights with Emirates from London Gatwick to Sydney start from £1055 per person in economy class.
