Flight time
Sydney is just a quick 3.5-hour flight from Auckland, making it a convenient destination for a city break or a longer holiday.
Sun, sand and a splash of adventure
Golden beaches, dazzling turquoise waters, and lush rainforest trails, Sydney effortlessly blends natural beauty with city excitement. With one of the world’s most iconic skylines set against a stunning coastal backdrop, this Aussie favourite is buzzing with endless possibilities.
From fun-filled family days to unforgettable nights out with your best mates, Sydney delivers the perfect escape for every type of traveller. Spot wildlife, catch some waves, savour the freshest seafood, or dance the night away in vibrant urban hotspots.
Connect with our Sydney travel specialists and let’s find your perfect adventure.
Best time to go
The ideal times to visit Sydney are September to November and March to May. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Time difference
Sydney is 2 hours behind New Zealand, so there’s a slight time difference to keep in mind when planning your activities.
Our favourite things to do in Sydney
From Ballet to Broadway
A night at the Sydney Opera House is nothing short of magical.
Explore beyond the city
Escape from the rat race and immerse yourself in the beautiful surrounding region.
Experience Sydney like never before
This experience is one not to be missed!
Admire the Art Gallery of New South Wales
Sydney’s museums and galleries are full of fascinating stories, from stunning classical and contemporary art to Aboriginal artefacts and cool scientific specimens
From coffee to cocktails at Barangaroo
Just four minutes from Wynyard Station, Barangaroo is Sydney’s ultimate food lover's paradise!
Best. Coastal Walk. Ever!
The Aussie dream. Think surf, sunshine, Bondi beach and summertime brunch.
Family ferry-tale.
Do what the locals do and travel on the harbour highway.
Hit the gas and head for the coast
Escape the hustle of a city as happening as Sydney with a coastal roadie.
LIMITED SEATS
Explore Disney's THE LION KING - Sydney
Sydney
Disney's THE LION KING - Sydney
3 Nights
A reserve ticket
from
$
639
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour - The Phantom of the Opera
Sydney
Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour - The Phantom of the Opera
3 Nights
A reserve ticket
from
$
1129
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 4 Day Byron Bay Ride, Rest and Refresh
Byron Bay
4 Day Byron Bay Ride, Rest and Refresh
3 Nights
Sightseeing
Car Hire
from
$
1299
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 5 Day Sydney City, Oyster Farm to Vine Escape
New South Wales
5 Day Sydney City, Oyster Farm to Vine Escape
4 Nights
Rental car
Sightseeing
from
$
1299
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 5 Day Sydney to Port Stephens - Quad Biking & Koala Sanctuary Adventure
New South Wales
5 Day Sydney to Port Stephens - Quad Biking & Koala Sanctuary Adventure
4 Nights
Car Hire
Sightseeing
from
$
1149
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 7 Day Bondi to the Bush South Coast Escape
Sydney
7 Day Bondi to the Bush South Coast Escape
6 Nights
Rental car
Sightseeing
from
$
2459
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 6 Day New South Wales Mountains, Wine & Wildlife
New South Wales
6 Day New South Wales Mountains, Wine & Wildlife
5 Nights
Car Hire
Sightseeing
from
$
1599
per person share twin
Explore 5 Day Sydney Streets to Blue Mountains Peaks
New South Wales
5 Day Sydney Streets to Blue Mountains Peaks
4 Nights
Car Hire
Sightseeing
from
$
1069
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Cruising to New South Wales 3
SELLING FAST!
Explore Getaways with Carnival Cruises
Getaways with Carnival Cruises
Fun-Filled Trans-Tasman Escapes!
Set off on a 2027 Carnival cruise between Auckland and Sydney and enjoy an easy Trans-Tasman escape. Cruise days are filled with lively entertainment, laid-back relaxation, and Carnival’s signature fun atmosphere, making this a bright, breezy way to travel between two great cities.
21 May 27 – SYDNEY TO AUCKLAND GETAWAY - 4 nights
Onboard Carnival Adventure
Sydney | 3 Fun Days at Sea | Auckland
Interior Rooms from NZD $635 pp twin share
Balcony Rooms from NZD 885 pp twin share
Single Rooms from NZD $1165 pp sole occupancy
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing
29 Jul 27 – AUCKLAND TO SYDNEY GETAWAY - 4 nights
Onboard Carnival Adventure
Auckland | 3 Fun Days at Sea | Sydney
Interior Rooms from NZD $619 pp twin share
Balcony Rooms from NZD $885 pp twin share
Single Rooms from NZD $1165 pp sole occupancy
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing
4 Night 2027 Sailings
from
$
635
per person share twin
Interior cabin
Flights Additional
Interior cabin
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Carnival Cruise Line
Departs 21 May 2027
Explore Carnival Queensland Cruises 2026
Carnival Queensland Cruises 2026
Sail to the best of Queensland with flexible departures. Discover Willis Island’s remote beauty, explore reef and rainforest in Cairns, and unwind in Airlie Beach, gateway to the Whitsundays. A perfect mix of nature, adventure, and coastal charm.
4-Night Airlie Beach
Carnival Encounter
Based on departure 30 Mar - 03 Apr 26
From $729 pp share twin Inside Stateroom
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
6-night Willis Island, Airlie Beach & Cairns
Carnival Encounter
Based on departure 05 Sep - 11 Sep 26
From $1005 pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
7-night Willis Island, Airlie Beach & more
Carnival Encounter
Based on departure 20 Mar - 27 Mar 26
From $1149 pp share twin Inside Stateroom
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
9-Night Moreton Island, Willis Island, Cairns & Airlie Beach
Carnival Adventure
Based on departure 10 Aug - 19 Aug 26
From $1215 pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
10-Night Airlie Beach, Cairns, Port Douglas, Willis Island & Moreton Island
Carnival Splendor
Based on departure 20 May 26 - 30 May 26
From $1349 pp share twin Interior Guarantee Stateroom*
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
4-night to 10 -night sailings
Onboard Carnival
from
$
729
per person share twin
Inside Guarantee Stateroom
Flights are additional
Inside Guarantee Stateroom
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Carnival Cruise Line
Departs 20 May 2026
Explore Set Sail with the Wiggly Friends
Set Sail with the Wiggly Friends
Royal Caribbean is proudly partnering with The Wiggles! Create lasting memories on your next family cruise. Royal Caribbean has proudly teamed up with much loved family brand, The Wiggles, as their Exclusive Cruise Holiday Partner. Set sail on one of six exclusive Wiggly sailings from Sydney on Anthem of the Seas® or Brisbane onboard Voyager of the Seas®.
Anthem of the Seas®, 7 night Queensland cruise
Sydney | Airlie Beach| Sydney
Departing 06 Feb 2026 from Sydney
Click here to view current pricing and availability
Anthem of the Seas®, 9 night South Pacific cruise
Sydney | Port Vila, Vanuatu | Mystery Island, Vanuatu | Noumea, New Caledonia | Sydney
Departing 13 Mar 2026 from Sydney
Click here to view current pricing and availability
Voyager of the Seas®, 7 night South Pacific cruise
Brisbane | Noumea, New Caledonia | Mystery Island Vanuatu | Brisbane
Departing 30 Jan 2026 from Brisbane
Click here to view current pricing and availability
Voyager of the Seas®, 7 night South Pacific cruise
Brisbane | Noumea, New Caledonia | Mystery Island Vanuatu | Brisbane
Departing 27 Feb 2026 from Brisbane
Click here to view current pricing and availability
Voyager of the Seas®, 9 night South Pacific cruise
Brisbane | Luganville, Vanuatu | Port Vila, Vanuatu | Mystery Island Vanuatu | Noumea, New Caledonia | Brisbane
Departing 28 Mar 2026 from Brisbane
Click here to view current pricing and availability
Hangout with Captain Feathersword, Dorothy the Dinosaur, Henry the Octopus, Wags the Dog and Shirley Shawn the Unicorn. Enjoy live performances in the main theatre, Wiggly dance parties, story time and more!
Cruising from Sydney & Brisbane
Book Early
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs
Our Sydney travel blogs
93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5
"Always easy to contact and super efficient"
Joelene"Brent is always helpful and found suitable flights very quickly."
Craig"Tania gives you all the options and then helps you navigate to the best solution for you"
Tracy
Isabella Taylor
House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)
Travel is my passion, and
being able to share that with others is the most rewarding part of what I do!
I love everything about travel — from adventure and culture to incredible food,
relaxation, and creating lifelong memories along the way. Having explored
destinations like Los Angeles, Thailand, Singapore, Australia, the Pacific
Islands, and enjoyed several cruise experiences, I’m excited to help you design
a journey that's just right for you.
Whether you're after an action-packed adventure or a relaxing beach escape, I’m
here to make sure every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying
the trip of a lifetime.
Isabella
Cody Fifield
House of Travel Levin
Travel has always ignited a deep passion within me. I’ve been
incredibly fortunate to wander across distant lands and hidden gems, and my
longing to explore continues to grow with every trip. After my time working in
Florida, I've returned to the U.S. multiple times, and Philadelphia holds a
special place in my heart—alive with history, bursting with vibrant culture,
and so wonderfully easy to discover.
My journeys have taken me to London, Egypt, Jordan, and more
recently, I’ve embraced the joy of exploring closer to home. I’ve been
captivated by the awe-inspiring landscapes of Uluru and the Red Centre and
mesmerized by the beauty of Heron Island in the southern reaches of the Great
Barrier Reef. I’ve also fallen in love with the energetic pulse of Sydney and
the breathtaking northwestern wonders of Tasmania—visiting Launceston, Cradle
Mountain (even in summer, don’t forget your coat—the cold can surprise you),
and Strahan.
As the dedicated Australia and Pacific specialist at our office,
these adventures have not only broadened my horizons but have fuelled my
passion to share these incredible experiences with others. I eagerly look
forward to discovering more extraordinary destinations, immersing myself in
diverse cultures, and creating unforgettable memories—wholeheartedly sharing
that joy and passion with everyone I meet!
Cody
Courtney Cameron
House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing
As your personal holiday builder I am here to take the stress out of your next holiday. Be it a family trip over the Tasman or romantic getaway to one of the sun soaked Pacific Islands, or maybe a bucket list destination trip.
I have had 10 years in the travel industry -made up mostly of being an International Flight Attendant. I have been lucky enough to travel to many places and experience many cultures. But there is always somewhere new to go!
I want to take the stress out of the planning so you can focus on the excitement of the trip. I am highly organized and like to ensure everything has been thought of and accounted for. Communicating clearly along the way with you so you feel confident and reassured.
Courtney
Jo Coolen
House of Travel Kapiti Coast
For a long time, I've told people I have the best job in the world and I still stand by that.
What could be better than turning peoples dreams into reality? I never know what the day will bring and isn't variety the spice of life?
My travel journey started a bit later in my life, so I haven't been everywhere YET, but I am having a damn good crack at it, gathering local knowledge along the way.
Jo
Best. Holidays. Ever!
Start here
Let us help you find the perfect holiday or deal. Here’s how to get in touch...
Want the insider word on all things travel?
Sign up below and be the first to hear about out hottest holiday deals, flights steals, and essential travel hints and tips from out team of travel specialists.
By signing up, you have read or have an opportunity to read the Privacy Policy, and you agree to the provisions of the Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up, we’ll be in touch soon!
Hold on a sec, adventurer! We didn't quite catch your email. Sign up again to unlock your travel dreams!
FAQS
What is the best time of year to visit Sydney ?
Sydney is a great destination year-round and there’s always something going on in Sydney. As one of the world’s top cities to visit, Sydney has a vibrant buzz year-round with its endless list of high profile events, iconic landmarks, popular beaches and stunning harbour.
What are the things to do in Sydney?
There is no shortage of things to do in Sydney, with so much to offer right on your doorstep. If you're planning a holiday in Sydney & NSW, explore our Sydney & surrounds travel guide crafted with help from our Sydney experts to make the most of your trip. Take a stroll along Circular Quay and soak up the atmosphere. Circular Quay has some of the city’s best restaurants. Only a 10 minute stroll from the Sydney Town Hall, Darling Harbour is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious harbourside meal or experience the energetic nightlife. Sydney's must-see spots include the Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, and the Royal Botanic Garden. In NSW, explore the Blue Mountains, the Hunter Valley wine
How to find the best holiday package to Sydney & NSW?
We've got that covered for you! Visit our Sydney & NSW deals section on our website or sign up to get the hottest deals sent straight to your email.
Where to stay in Sydney & NSW?
There are so many amazing places to stay in Sydney & NSW, depending on what you like. If you want to be close to the action, the CBD has plenty of hotels and apartments near the main attractions. If you love the beach, you can't go wrong with Bondi or Manly, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. For a more laid-back vibe, why not check out the Blue Mountains or the Hunter Valley? They are both stunning destinations with cosy accommodation options.
What should I pack for my trip to Sydney?
Pack light, breathable clothing for warm weather, especially if visiting during summer. Include swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for beach days. If visiting during winter (June to August), pack a warm jacket and layers for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city and natural parks.
Do I need travel insurance for Sydney?
Absolutely, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance for your trip to Sydney. We provide a range of travel insurance options suitable for travel to Australia. Find more information here.
Can I use New Zealand dollars in Sydney & NSW?
No, you will need to exchange your New Zealand dollars (NZD) for Australian dollars (AUD). Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and exchange bureaus. Most credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
Do I need to hire a car to get around in Sydney?
We recommend hiring a car can be useful for exploring regional NSW, such as the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, and coastal areas.
How can I get around in Sydney?
Sydney has extensive public transport system, including trains, buses, and ferries. The Opal card is a convenient payment method for all public transport. For shorter stays, rideshare services like Uber and taxis are also available.
Where to shop in Sydney?
As an absolute shopper’s paradise, there are seemingly endless options in Sydney whatever you’re looking for, from the CBD’s colossal department stores, Myer and David Jones to high street favourites such as Topshop and Zara. Visit Pitt Street Mall for high-street and designer stores, the Queen Victoria Building (QVB) for luxury boutiques in a historic setting, and Westfield Sydney for a wide range of brands and dining options. For unique finds, explore The Rocks Markets and Paddington Markets on weekends. HOT TIP! Paddy's Market, which sells an eclectic mix of food, cheap clothes and even cheaper souvenirs (kangaroo scrotum anyone?) sits conveniently close to Chinatown and Darling Harbour, both of which are walkable.
What are some family-friendly activities in Sydney & NSW?
Sydney & NSW are fantastic family holiday destinations with plenty of activities for all ages. In Sydney, visit Taronga Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, and Luna Park. Explore the Blue Mountains for outdoor adventures like bushwalking and scenic railway rides. Enjoy beach days at Bondi or Manly, and discover the interactive museums and parks throughout the city and region. For a fantastic family day out hop on the ferry to visit the zoo and Watsons Bay. Enjoy classic fish & chips at Doyles by the harbour, or head to the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel for their own delicious take on this seaside favourite, paired with a tempting cocktail menu.
