Iconic, sun-drenched, laidback - Sydney is the cosmopolitan capital of New South Wales and a much-loved destination among Original Travellers. This week the city plays host to our very own Duke and Duchess of Sussex (plus baby bump), which got us thinking about how best to enjoy a crown jewels experience of the city. Well, hold onto your hats as we race you through a whistle-stop tour of Sydney's most exclusive experiences...
Ahoy There!
Sydney is jam-packed with sightseeing delights and first up its Darling Harbour; board a private charter boat and cruise around Sydney's glittering waterways - an unconventional but excellent way to get your bearings. Meandering past the iconic Sydney skyline you'll view the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge from a unique perspective, away from the crowds, before exploring lesser-known spots of coastal magnificence. Enjoy an elegant three course meal prepared on board before heading back to Darling Harbour with a newfound respect for Sydney's natural and architectural masterpieces.
Reach for the Sky
Vertigo sufferers look away now: once you've appreciated the towering giant that is the Harbour Bridge from below, it's time to experience it in full force from above. Our favourite time to conquer the Harbour Bridge climb is during the twilight session, when you can watch the glimmering city lights brighten by the minute as the sky fades into fiery sunset hues. Emboldened by the adrenaline from your climb (or just to celebrate being back on the ground) end the climb with a cocktail at the coveted Opera Bar.
The Early Bird Catches the Worm
Start bright and early (0700 to be precise) for a behind the scenes opera house tour. Get an exclusive peek into the stellar lives of the performers and glean insider secrets from guides who rub shoulders with them every day, while enjoying a spot of breakfast backstage.
Take Flight
We may technically be leaving Sydney for this next experience but we couldn't help ourselves so let's just call it the wild card option. Catch a private seaplane and fly out over the famous Northern Beaches and up to Pittwater. Stop off for lunch at famed dining spot, Cottage Point Inn, and take it from us, the seven course degustation menu is well worth it.
Coastal Cool
A visit to Sydney wouldn't be complete without setting foot on the golden sands of its stunning coastline. Bondi is the most iconic of Sydney's beaches so why not head on down and see what all the fuss is about? It's iconic for a reason, with its huge expanse wedged between a border of local street art to land and surfers shredding the waves at sea. To really appreciate the character of the beach, test your agility with a private half-day surf lesson on the reliable, beginner-friendly breaks of Bondi's shallows. Lunch at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar is also a must while in this area. Perched right on top of Bondi Beach, it's a great spot for people-watching Sydney's in-crowd and enjoying panoramic views of the coast.