Romantic Sydney Christmas and New Year Celebration Itinerary 2024-2025

Day 1: Arrival and City Stroll

Sydney, Australia on December 20, 2024

9:00am

Breakfast at The Grounds of the City

Enjoy a cosy breakfast with freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries at this popular city café, open from 7am to 3pm.
AUD25, 1h

10:30am

Visit Circular Quay and Opera House

Walk around Circular Quay to see the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, perfect for great photos and the harbour vibe.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Quay Restaurant

Dine overlooking the harbour with a creative menu showcasing Australian flavours at this award-winning restaurant, open from 12pm to 3pm weekdays.
AUD150, 1h30m

2:30pm

Explore The Rocks Market and Historic Laneways

Wander through the charming cobblestone streets, exploring artisan stalls and historic pubs. The market runs Friday to Sunday 10am - 5pm.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Barangaroo Reserve

Enjoy a peaceful riverside walk in this modern parkland area with views of the harbour and city skyline.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mr. Wong

Experience contemporary Chinese cuisine in a stylish setting; open for dinner 5:30pm to 10pm.
AUD120, 1h30m
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Day 2: Harbour and Gardens

Sydney, Australia on December 21, 2024

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills Bondi

Begin your day with classic Aussie breakfasts in this iconic eatery known for its ricotta hotcakes. Open 7:30am to 3pm.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Royal Botanic Garden Walk

Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens with sweeping views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Opera Bar

Enjoy light meals and drinks right on the harbour front with great views of the bridge and Opera House. Open 11am to 11pm.
AUD50, 1h

1:30pm

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia

Explore fascinating modern artworks from Australian and international artists; open 10am to 5pm.
Free entry, some exhibitions paid, 2h

4:00pm

Ferry Ride to Manly

Take the scenic 30-minute ferry across the harbour to Manly Beach, a lovely way to see Sydney from the water.
AUD15, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hugo’s Manly

Enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired menu with ocean views in a relaxed setting; open until 10pm.
AUD90, 1h30m
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Day 3: Bondi Beach Day

Sydney, Australia on December 22, 2024

7:30am

Breakfast at Speedos Cafe, Bondi

Start your day with healthy and delicious options just steps from Bondi Beach; open 7am to 4pm.
AUD28, 1h

9:00am

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Enjoy the stunning 6km cliff-top walk with beaches, parks and ocean views; allow 2 to 3 hours.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Coogee Pavilion

Relax with fresh seafood and a vibrant atmosphere overlooking the beach; open 12pm to 10pm.
AUD60, 1h30m

3:00pm

Relax at Bondi Beach

Spend the afternoon sunbathing or swimming at the iconic beach, or enjoy a coffee at a beachside café.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

Dine with breathtaking views over Bondi Beach in this stylish and sophisticated restaurant; open 6pm to 10pm.
AUD130, 2h
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Day 4: Blue Mountains Adventure

Blue Mountains, NSW on December 23, 2024

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or nearby café

Have an early breakfast before traveling; many city hotels serve from 6:30am.
AUD20, 1h

8:00am

Drive or Join Tour to Blue Mountains

Travel about 2 hours west of Sydney to the stunning Blue Mountains National Park, known for dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
AUD70 (tour), 2h

10:30am

Scenic World Experience

Enjoy the scenic railway, skyway and walkways offering panoramic views of the Jamison Valley; open 9am to 5pm.
AUD50, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Leura Garage

Casual dining with a fresh menu and vintage style in a charming village setting in Leura; open 7am to 3pm.
AUD40, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Echo Point lookout and Three Sisters

Visit this iconic lookout point for breathtaking views of the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Sydney

Head back to Sydney, relaxing after a nature-filled day.
Included, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Butler, Potts Point

Enjoy modern Australian cuisine in a chic setting with city views; open 6pm to 10pm.
AUD100, 1h30m
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Day 5: Christmas Eve Festivities

Sydney, Australia on December 24, 2024

8:00am

Breakfast at Devon Cafe

A trendy spot known for inventive breakfast and brunch options, open 7:30am to 3pm.
AUD35, 1h

10:00am

Visit Sydney Tower Eye

Enjoy 360-degree views of Sydney and surroundings from the highest point in the city; open 9am to 9pm.
AUD30, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Spice Alley

Discover a diverse range of Asian street food vendors in a vibrant laneway setting; many stalls open 11am to 9pm.
AUD30, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair

Take a peaceful stroll or picnic at this famous vantage point with views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour

Celebrate the festive season on a luxurious cruise with dinner, live entertainment, and views of the city lights.
AUD250, 3h
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Day 6: Christmas Day Relaxation

Sydney, Australia on December 25, 2024

9:00am

Christmas Breakfast at Hotel or nearby café

Enjoy a leisurely Christmas morning breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café offering festive menus.
AUD35, 1h

10:30am

Walk to Bondi Beach

Spend a relaxing Christmas Day at the beach, soaking up sun and festive atmosphere.
Free, 3h

2:00pm

Christmas Lunch at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

Reserve a table for their special Christmas Day menu featuring fresh local produce with ocean views.
AUD150, 2h

5:00pm

Christmas Sunset Walk

Enjoy a romantic coastal walk along the Bondi promenade to watch the sunset and reflect on the day.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Light Dinner at Bondi Beachside Café

Opt for a light meal or dessert at a café overlooking the beach, open until 9pm.
AUD30, 1h
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Day 7: Boxing Day and Shopping

Sydney, Australia on December 26, 2024

8:30am

Breakfast at Bourke Street Bakery

Famous for fresh baked goods and coffee, perfect start before a busy day; open 7am to 5pm.
AUD20, 1h

10:00am

Boxing Day Sales at Pitt Street Mall

Explore Sydney’s premier shopping precinct with major discounts and festive excitement.
Variable, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Din Tai Fung, Westfield Sydney

Enjoy delicious Taiwanese dumplings and noodles within the shopping centre; open 11am to 9pm.
AUD40, 1h

2:30pm

Sydney Aquarium Visit

Experience underwater worlds and marine wildlife; open 10am to 6pm.
AUD45, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at The Glenmore Hotel Rooftop

End the day with casual dining and superb views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge; open until 10pm.
AUD70, 1h30m
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Day 8: Northern Beaches

Sydney, Australia on December 27, 2024

8:00am

Breakfast at The Boathouse Shelly Beach

Delight in fresh, locally sourced breakfast with views over Shelly Beach; open 7am to 3pm.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Snorkelling and Swimming at Shelly Beach

Enjoy a refreshing swim or snorkel in calm sheltered waters, ideal for all skill levels.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Manly Wharf Hotel

Casual pub fare right on the water with great views and local beers; open from 11:30am.
AUD50, 1h30m

2:00pm

Manly Scenic Walkway

Take a leisurely coastal walk from Manly Beach to Fairy Bower for spectacular ocean and city views.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Sydney City

Travel back to the central city to rest and prepare for evening plans.
AUD15 ferry, 40m

7:30pm

Dinner at Otto Ristorante

Savour Italian fine dining with waterfront views in Woolloomooloo; open 6pm to 10pm.
AUD140, 2h
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Day 9: Relax and Culture

Sydney, Australia on December 28, 2024

9:00am

Breakfast at Three Blue Ducks

Enjoy rustic-style breakfast with fresh local ingredients in Bronte; open 7am to 3pm.
AUD35, 1h

10:30am

Art Gallery of New South Wales

Discover impressive Australian and international art collections; open 10am to 5pm.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Cafe Sydney

A rooftop dining experience offering modern Australian dishes and harbour views; open 12pm to 3pm.
AUD95, 1h30m

3:00pm

Afternoon at Sydney Fish Market

Browse the expansive seafood market and enjoy fresh oysters or sushi for an afternoon snack; open 7am to 4:30pm.
AUD40, 1h30m

6:00pm

Casual Dinner at Blackwood Pantry

Seasonal and sustainable eatery offering share plates and a relaxed atmosphere; open 5pm to 10pm.
AUD60, 1h30m
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Day 10: Sydney Harbour Islands

Sydney, Australia on December 29, 2024

8:30am

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy a convenient breakfast before your day of island exploration.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Day Trip to Cockatoo Island

Take a ferry to this UNESCO World Heritage site offering history, art installations and picnic spots; ferries run from Circular Quay.
Ferry AUD15 return, 5h

2:30pm

Return to Sydney and Rest

Head back to the city and relax at your hotel.
Included, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Bennelong Restaurant

Indulge in a high-end dining experience inside the Sydney Opera House, open for dinner 6pm to 10pm.
AUD200, 2h
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Day 11: Beach and Sunset

Sydney, Australia on December 30, 2024

8:00am

Breakfast at Porch and Parlour, Paddington

Enjoy delicious brunch fare in a light-filled venue; open 7am to 3pm.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Visit Palm Beach

Spend a relaxing day at this beautiful northern beach known as the setting for 'Home and Away'.
Free, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Barrenjoey House

Enjoy modern Australian cuisine with waterfront views in Palm Beach; open 11:30am to 3pm.
AUD70, 1h30m

3:30pm

Return to Sydney and prepare for sunset

Travel back to the city and get ready for an evening harbour experience.
AUD40, 1h

5:30pm

Sunset Drinks at O Bar and Dining

Sip cocktails on this revolving restaurant with stunning panoramic views of Sydney Harbour; open until late.
AUD50, 2h
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Day 12: New Year's Eve Celebration

Sydney, Australia on December 31, 2024

9:00am

Breakfast at Koi Dessert Bar

Begin the day with elegant breakfast and Japanese-inspired sweets; open 8am to 3pm.
AUD30, 1h

10:30am

Relaxing Morning at Hyde Park

Stroll through Sydney’s premier park and enjoy a tranquil morning before the busy evening ahead.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Sydney

Reserve an early lunch to savour harbour views and excellent cuisine, open 12pm to 3pm.
AUD95, 1h30m

2:30pm

Return to Hotel for Rest

Prepare and rest for the spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

New Year's Eve Dinner and Fireworks at Sydney Harbour

Book a premium harbour dinner cruise or waterfront venue to witness the world-famous fireworks display at 9pm and midnight.
AUD300+, 6h
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Day 13: New Year Recovery

Sydney, Australia on January 1, 2025

10:00am

Late Breakfast at Two Good Eggs

Casual and welcoming spot for hearty breakfasts to start the new year gently; opens 7am to 3pm.
AUD30, 1h

12:00pm

Relax at Royal Botanic Garden

Spend a calm day strolling or lounging in beautiful gardens and reflecting on the holiday season.
Free, 2h

2:30pm

Casual Lunch at Opera Kitchen

Relaxed dining with views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge; open until 5pm.
AUD50, 1h30m

4:30pm

Walk along Darling Harbour

Enjoy the lively waterfront precinct and scenic views to finish your holiday in Sydney.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mr. Wong or similar

Finish with your favourite restaurant from the trip or try another fine dining option open late.
AUD120, 1h30m
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