New South Wales is Australia’s most populous and diverse state. It has everything from snow-capped mountains to sandy beaches.
Sydney is the capital of New South Wales, and it’s a city that only scratches the surface of what this state has to offer. This New South Wales Travel Guide, which borders the less-known Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and Queensland, will take you to the most sought-after Byron Bay as well as the Great Dividing Range in order to show off the best of NSW.
If you are a wine lover or just like to have a glass of wine every now and then, a visit to the Hunter Valley in NSW will allow you to sample some of Australia’s finest wines. In the Blue Mountains National Park at the top of the Great Dividing Range you can find hiking trails to search for waterfalls or, in winter, to search for the best snow on your ski trip.
If you want to put New South Wales in perspective, and understand how diverse the travel options are, then look no further than Bondi Beach. Here, sunshine, clear water, and white sand welcomes you with open arms.
New South Wales: When to Visit
The subtropical climate of NSW brings hot summers, cool winters but also the possibility of sunshine all year round. New South Wales has the same diverse climates as other Australian states, with the snow-capped mountains in the inland and the warmer weather on the coast.
The summer in New South Wales lasts from December to the end of February. You won’t be feeling the cold, even though temperatures may vary. The beach and festivals are always close by. If you’re looking for the perfect summer vacation, this is when to go.
New South Wales has cold winters, with temperatures as low as seven degrees Celsius along the coast between June and August. You can go skiing further inland in the mountains during this period. You’ll be surprised at what NSW can offer you.
New South Wales’ Best Places to Visit
Byron Bay
Byron Bay, Australia, is a legend among myths. It’s known for its beaches, wine and food, and the electric environment in which to enjoy them all. Byron Bay is a popular destination that attracts people from all over the world. It’s surrounded by rainforest walks, coastal paths, and endless beaches. This Byron Bay luxury trip will show you why.
Cape Byron is Australia’s easterly most point. A lighthouse guards the boats that deliver the catch to Byron Bay’s thriving culinary scene. You’ll also find local designers and artists who have opened boutiques and market stalls in the town. This has helped to give it the reputation of being the shopping capital on the coast.
Hunter Valley
Hunter Valley, the oldest wine region in Australia, is home to over 150 wineries. It will be your personal NSW guide for some of Australia’s finest wines.
A Hunter Valley Tour from Sydney is perfect for those looking for an unforgettable weekend with friends or honeymoon. You will lose track of time while you visit cellar doors, enjoy a picnic at a vineyard, and toast to the sunset.
Sydney
Sydney, Australia’s most popular city, is stylish, sleek, and full of iconic landmarks. Sydney’s architectural marvels, such as the Sydney Opera House or the Harbour Bridge, are matched only by its drool worthy food scene.
Many people use Sydney as a base for day tours. However, there are many tours that you should not miss in Sydney. These include helicopter rides, sunset dinner cruises, and whale watching tours, especially during the mating season. The city is also close to some of Australia’s best beaches.
There are many ways to get everything done in one go. From hop-on, hop-off tours of Sydney to multi-attractions passes that take you around all the destinations on your bucket list. Don’t limit your attention to the daytime, because the city has a variety of bars and restaurants that deserve your attention.
Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay, a small village with a protected oceanic beach and protected by a peninsula is one of the most popular holiday destinations in New South Wales. Jervis Bay’s white sand beaches are not only a short drive from Sydney but also boast some of the safest and cleanest water in the entire world.
Jervis Bay is an adventurer’s dream. The village offers a wide range of activities, including wildlife excursions to find wallabies, wombats and kangaroos. There are also many walking trails and restaurants. Jervis Bay is the premier holiday destination in NSW. The village boasts a variety of cafes and restaurants that serve fresh, local produce and a growing music culture to keep you entertained at night.
Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour, a popular family destination in NSW, is yet another example of the state’s incredible collection of idyllic locations.
Coffs Harbour offers a wide range of activities for all ages. There are cycle routes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. This activity is offset by the idyllic location of Coffs Harbour, the great food, and the chance to learn about the culture of Gumbaynggirr, the indigenous people who live in this land.
Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains are a place where golden canyons and dense rainforests meet.
The canyons of the Blue Mountains are a place where you can find waterfalls. Scenic World is the steepest railway in the world and can show you the Blue Mountains’ power. It offers views of Sydney, the mountain ranges, and the surrounding mountains.
There are many retreats in the Blue Mountains that provide a relaxing, intimate weekend getaway. One such trip is this 3-day Blue Mountains indulgence tour that combines wellness, nature, and creativity.
The Blue Mountains were named for the blue haze which hovers above the forest canopy. The haze, created by eucalyptus trees, is a scientific phenomenon. It’s an amazing mixture of sunlight and water drops.
How to get around NSW
Sydney
Metro
Sydney, the capital of the state, has a well-developed and efficient transport system. You can easily get around the city by taking the metro. It offers direct access all of the major attractions.
Train
Train lines reach as far as Brisbane or Melbourne. You can also take the train to nearby towns and cities within the state. Catching a train can be a convenient and efficient option if you cannot drive.
There are many other places to visit in NSW
Self-Drive
It’s best to drive yourself if you want to be able to travel as much as you like in New South Wales. Rent a car at any major airport or city to embark on a self drive tour. You can also purchase a used car to make a longer journey as they are often cheaper.
You can travel to New South Wales at your own pace, and you can also visit other states. Take this 7-Day cosmopolitan self-drive getaway that takes you along the coast in search of adventure.
Plan
Australia’s top attractions are spread out so much that to tick off the entire bucket list will require a lot travelling. Flying between the locations is necessary to make this happen.
Sydney is the administrative centre of Australia, so regular flights at affordable prices are available. This Uluru Tour from Sydney covers two of Australia’s top attractions in one week, Sydney Opera House, and Uluru.
Private Driver
Hiring a driver to take the stress of driving in Australia is perfect for those who don’t feel confident on unfamiliar roads. This will make your entire trip more enjoyable.
The 5-day Sydney and Surrounds Tour takes you on a tour of some of the most beautiful places in NSW, all from the comfort of your car.
What to do in New South Wales
Sydney
This is one big state capital! Sydney is a big city. It can be difficult to decide where to stay. However, you can narrow your options by choosing a beach or city break, and by setting a budget.
You’ll find a wide range of accommodation in Sydney including beachside apartments, city hotels with big brands, hostels, and homestays. This includes some of the most popular property areas such as Paddington, Surry Hills, and Mosman. Research the areas that you like. Sydney is a well-connected metropolis, and distance is not an issue.
Byron Bay
Ranging from hostels to holiday parks to private cottages and villas, Byron Bay’s accommodation reflects its status as an internationally-renowned destination.
Families, couples, backpackers, and everyone else can enjoy this resort! You can find a lot of accommodation near the beach. However, you’ll need to check out the range of Byron Bay Resorts to get the beachfront location you want. Accommodation costs increase the closer you are to the beach.
Hunter Valley
Accommodation in Hunter Valley is a great escape from the busy city. From cottages on a vineyard to luxury resorts, they all offer a peaceful retreat.
Hunter Valley accommodation is cosy and suited to the wine estates that surround it. Hunter Valley has a limited number of accommodation options, but they will immerse you into Australia’s world class wine industry.
Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains are located in the Great Dividing Range and offer a wide range of accommodation options.
The Blue Mountains offer a wide range of accommodation options, including camping grounds, hostels, cottages, farmstays, guesthouses, eco-lodges and resorts. This natural adventure land is the perfect place to create your dream holiday, whether you’re travelling alone, with friends or family, or on your honeymoon.
Hunter Valley NSW Places To Eat & Drink In NSW
Sydney
Sydney is famous for many things. Food is one of them. Sydney is Australia’s culinary capital. From its vibrant markets to fine dining restaurants on the waterfront, Sydney offers the best of the state. The city’s culinary scene is worth a visit in and of itself. There are so many places to try that you will wish you could eat more.
Start by visiting the food halls such as The Tramsheds The Cannery or Barangaroo.
Hunter Valley
Hunter Valley has something for everyone.
Wineries, restaurants, and High Tea are all great options for those who want a good meal.
Byron Bay
Byron Bay is a place where you can find Buddha bowls and tacos.
The food scene in NSW is slowly catching up with this sunny and surfboards-filled location. Byron Bay has a growing number of restaurants that serve authentic Latin American cuisine. It is also becoming a place where farm-to table food can be enjoyed at an affordable price. Byron Bay is a treasure trove of food and coffee.
What is the Cost of a Trip in New South Wales?
There are some things you should consider before planning your trip.
The length of your trip
Choose a season or month to travel
Accommodation type and class
What is the number of places you plan to visit?
Take part in a number of activities and tours
Spending on dining and shopping
You’ll wish that you hadn’t started when you have everything in place! Planning a trip to New South Wales is not only exciting but also stress-free.
A Local Designer will be assigned to you on the ground. They’ll create a trip that includes everything you need, along with some additional suggestions based on your information. Our Local Designers will take care of all your travel needs in New South Wales, from the airport transfers, to hotel reservations, to tours.
Your trip plan for Byron Bay, and beyond, will include everything from a tour of the Sydney Opera House to NSW road maps.
This 5-day Sydney getaway starts at $1,790 for each person. This trip includes:
4-star accommodation
Six guided activities
Private car transfers to and from the airport
Four Breakfasts
This trip can be made affordable by adjusting the small details, such as the hotel standard and whether you choose a private or group tour.
Select ‘Design Your Own Trip,’ to talk to a local designer to create a unique experience for you if you cannot find exactly what you’re looking for.
Byron Bay Festivals New South Wales
Byron Writers Festival
Byron Writers Festival, part of the diverse art scene in NSW, is a gathering place for artists to exchange ideas. The festival encourages audiences to use all their senses in order to fully experience the art of writing.
There are a number of events taking place in July and August that range from author’s talks to performance. There’s something for everyone!
Orange Winter Fire Festival
The Orange Winter Fire Festival, located in the Orange Region, is a celebration that celebrates winter and the many products it brings to the State.
People from all over the region gather for warm fires, good food, and entertainment. This event is a family-oriented affair that will warm both your heart and stomach!
Sample Food Festival
The Sample Food Festival, located in the hinterlands of Byron Bay in Bangalow in the north of NSW, is one of the largest culinary events in NSW.
Australians come from all over to sample the food and drinks that are on offer. This is a festival that you should put on your calendar. There are many competitions, exhibitions and other entertainment.
Splendour on the Grass
Splendour In The Grass is one of Australia’s most popular festivals. It has taken place in New South Wales, Queensland, and North Byron. Every year, the music festival welcomes tens of thousands of music fans. The event is set to be a hit with its international acts.
Splendour on the Grass, a three-day winter event for friends, is always a great weekend!
Vivid Sydney
Vivid Sydney, a festival that combines light, music, and ideas is one event you should not miss.
With its large-scale projections and installations, Sydney transforms into a space for music and art. Inspiring talks and innovative ideas attract millions of people to the city.
Hunter Valley Food and Wine Festival
The Hunter Valley Food and Wine Festival is a great place to spend the winter months, May and June.
The Food and Wine Festival will delight your palate with its events that showcase Hunter Valley’s best culinary endeavors. The Food and Wine Festival is a unique festival that will leave you and your tastebuds wanting more. From masterclasses by the best oenologists in the region to food and drink trails, this festival has it all.
Port Stephens Tour Regional Tours of NSW
Port Stephens Tours from Sydney
This 3-day Port Stephens trip is packed with action and will make for an unforgettable holiday. Port Stephens offers a variety of activities, including catching some rays and spotting dolphins along the coast.
A Weekend in Wolgan
This trip to Wolgan valley is the perfect retreat for all of us. Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the Blue Mountains and Wolgan Valley. Finish it with a gin-tasting. You will feel like a million bucks when you return from this trip.
Byron Bay Luxury Tour
The Byron Bay Luxury Tour is designed to treat you the way you deserve. Rae’s Spa in Byron Bay offers a range of luxurious services to help you relax and rejuvenate.
Sydney Opera House Tour Are you ready to plan your New South Wales travels?
It’s time to turn your travel fantasies into reality. NSW has it all, from the mountains of the Great Dividing Range and the beaches of Port Stephens to Byron Bay.