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Home to many Australian icons, Sydney is a vibrant and diverse city that promises new experiences around every corner. Heading out west and only a two hour drive away, the Blue Mountains is a wilderness wonderland with sprawling sandstone ridges and native bushland. These destinations are perfect for those looking to mix up their holiday with the cultural experiences of the city and the outdoor adventures that guarantee to leave you awe-inspired.
Sydney is the most visited city in Australia and for good reason. Walking through the city's streets, you'll come across hidden restaurants down the many laneways but when you head out towards the beaches, you'll find golden sands, turquoise oceans and plenty of waves. A vibrant city, the calendar is always alive with incredible events and festivals that capture the soul and history. The Blue Mountains is an enchanting region of steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests and majestic waterfalls. There are plenty of walking tracks for you to set out on foot and explore the flourishing valleys and the endless vistas that are cloaked in clouds. There are so many lookouts that offer a different perspective on the dramatic scenery and if you want your breath taken away, see it all under the golden glow of the sunset.
To avoid Sydney's high and low seasons and enjoy more comfortable temperatures, the best times to visit the city is September through to November and March through to May. If you want to hit Bondi when it's supposed to be enjoyed, the summer months from December to February means it's more than likely the sun will be shining. While the Blue Mountains region can be visited at any time of the year, we would recommend the spring months of September to October, when the temperatures are neither scorching nor freezing. There are many events that are seasonal-specific including the leaves turning a warm orange-red hue during the autumn months of March to May and festivals during the winter months of June to August.
Being a major metropolitan area, Sydney offers an extensive network of public transport with buses, trains, trams and ferries. To make life easier, make sure you pick up an Opal Card to save on fares which can be purchased from participating newsagents, post offices, convenience stores and supermarkets. The best method to get to all the major landmarks of the Blue Mountains will always be by car, which can be rented with ease. If you are not willing to go this route, the Explorer bus is a double decker that allows you to seamlessly hop-on, hop-off. A more cost-effective option is the Trolley Tours which offer commentary as you explore the natural sights.
Writing down all the fun and interesting things to do in Sydney, you would need a whole day to read that article so that's why we've chosen the very best. For the families, there are landmark tours of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, museums and galleries, and zoos such as Taronga Zoo that promise a day full of adventure. Go for a swim at the world famous Bondi Beach or take a coastal walk to Coogee and soak in the stunning views from the cliffs. If you're looking for an iconic trip, take the Manly ferry from Circular Quay and spend the day in gorgeous Manly - swimming, dining and perusing the shops and ice creameries. If you want to keep exploring the city and its beautiful surroundings, there are plenty of walking trails that cover historic sites, fascinating wildlife and world-famous beaches. Whether it's a gentle stroll or a multi-day trek, the Blue Mountains offer a bushwalk to suit everyone. This is the best way to mindfully explore the natural landmarks such as the iconic Three Sisters, whose panoramic views can be enjoyed from the Echo Point Lookout. If you are looking for the best view in the house, Scenic World puts you in a cable car that glides over the stunning valleys and can even take you down to explore the Jamison Valley. Pay a visit to the friendly and welcoming towns of Katoomba, Leura and Blackheath for antique shops, cosy cafes, and some beautiful street art.
Sydney is the flavour capital of Australia and where you will discover an impressive array of gourmet restaurants, alleyway cafes, bustling markets, glamorous cocktail bars and classic pubs. The inner city is where you will find some of the best dining precincts such as Macleay Street in Potts Point and just a short walk away, Woolloomooloo Wharf is where you can wine and dine by the water. Heading out to the suburbs sets you up for some delicious experiences with seafood at Bondi, trendy bars in Surry Hills and authentic, multicultural options in the Western Suburbs. Dining in the Blue Mountains has become one of the most popular things to do for visitors and that's why there is a focus on providing gourmet experiences that make the most of the stunning location. If you are looking for fine dining, Katoomba is the place to be with Darley's Restaurant that offers views across the rugged Jamison Valley. For something more casual, Leura has a shopping strip that is filled with quirky cafes and even a Mediterranean restaurant inside an old mechanic's workshop.
Accor Hotels have Blue Mountains accommodation for you in addition to all the major locations in Sydney, just don't forget our Best Price Guarantee means that you can be sure of booking at the best rate. No matter where you are in town, we have somewhere for you to stay in the inner city, along the waters of Darling Harbour and the Greater Western suburbs. For a stunning stay in the Blue Mountains, visit the Fairmont Resort & Spa blue Mountains for relaxing and peaceful accommodation, right in the heart of the Jamison Valley.