Sydney Vivid Festival 2025: A Captivating 3-Day Itinerary for Art, Light, and Culture

Day 1: Arrival & Light Shows

Sydney, Australia on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills Darlinghurst

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast famous for its ricotta hotcakes and fresh juices, located a short drive from the city centre.
AUD25, 1h

10:00am

Sydney Opera House Tour

Take a guided tour around the iconic Sydney Opera House to learn about its architecture and history, a must-see before the festival lights take over the night.
AUD42, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Opera Kitchen

Enjoy lunch with spectacular views of Sydney Harbour, offering fresh seafood and modern Australian cuisine.
AUD40, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Circular Quay and The Rocks

Walk around the historic Rocks district and Circular Quay to see local markets, shops, and street performances.
Free, 2h

5:30pm

Early Dinner at Quay Restaurant

Dine in one of Australia's most regarded restaurants offering exquisite dishes with harbour views in preparation for the evening festivities.
AUD150, 1h30m

7:30pm

Vivid Sydney Light Installations Tour

Experience the stunning light shows along Circular Quay and the Opera House, with spectacular creative projections and interactive displays until 11pm.
Free, 3h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Workshops & Art

Sydney, Australia on May 25, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in a vibrant garden setting, famous for artisanal coffee and fresh produce.
AUD30, 1h

10:00am

Vivid Creative Workshops

Participate in fascinating workshops including light art, 3D printing, and sound experiences at the Vivid Ideas hub located in Carriageworks. Check schedule and book advance tickets.
AUD50, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Darling Harbour

Have lunch with a waterfront view at Nick’s Seafood Restaurant, popular for its fresh, sustainably sourced seafood platters.
AUD45, 1h

2:30pm

Visit MCA (Museum of Contemporary Art Australia)

Explore cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions reflecting the latest visual arts trends until 5pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Mr Wong

Enjoy upscale Cantonese cuisine in a stylish setting in the city, perfect for dinner before the night’s light trail.
AUD80, 1h30m

8:00pm

Vivid Light Walk in The Rocks

Stroll through The Rocks precinct to see unique light sculptures and projections, open until late night.
Free, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Harbour & Gardens

Sydney, Australia on May 26, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Catalina, Rose Bay

Start your day with a scenic breakfast by the water featuring fresh pastries and great coffee.
AUD35, 1h

11:00am

Sydney Harbour Cruise

Take a Vivid Harbour cruise to see all the light installations from the water, including the Opera House lit up in vivid colours, running multiple tours from 11am until late afternoon.
AUD70, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Botanic Gardens Cafe

Enjoy a light lunch surrounded by the lush Sydney Botanical Gardens, a tranquil spot to relax before the evening.
AUD28, 1h

3:30pm

Vivid Light Walk Botanical Gardens

Explore the spectacular light installations throughout the Royal Botanic Gardens, open into the night to enjoy beautiful illuminated artworks.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Bennelong Restaurant

Celebrate your final night at Bennelong inside the Sydney Opera House, offering contemporary Australian cuisine with unparalleled harbour views.
AUD160, 2h
View Hotel Availability