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City, Mountains & Beach Package

Start your journey in Sydney, explore this vibrant city like a local with your Harbour Explorer Pass, visit the famous Sydney Opera House, museums, galleries, and see wildlife during the Aussie Backyard Tour. From Sydney, set off for the spectacular Blue Mountains. Enjoy walking tracks around Katoomba, beautiful vast forests, waterfalls, and the breathtaking views of this World Heritage-listed wilderness. From here, continue to the beaches on the central New South Wales coast. Enjoy coastal walks, delicious seaside cuisine, and meet the Australian most favourite furry locals - koalas and kangaroos at Oakvale Wildlife Park.

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Day 1 - Welcome to Sydney

City, Mountains & Beach Package - Day 1
Sydney

Sydney is Australia's largest city and the vibrant capital of New South Wales. The city was founded in 1788 with the arrival of the first fleet of convicts and soldiers, although the area has been inhabited by indigenous Australian ancestors who came to Australia between 15,000 and 45,000 years ago. Today, Sydney is a major international capital of culture and business, and also a key tourist destination recognised across the globe. Most famed for the unique Sydney Opera House, the city is also known for its beautiful surrounding beaches and as a gateway to popular sightseeing regions such as the Central Coast, the Blue Mountains and the Hunter Valley.

Hop On Hop Off Harbour Explorer 2-Day Pass

When in Sydney travel like the locals do, on the harbour highway! The Hop-on Hop-off Ferry pass takes you to the city's must-see spots like Taronga Zoo, Shark Island, Watsons Bay and Manly. Start your day at Circular Quay or Darling Harbour and enjoy the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The friendly crew provides onboard commentary, while a printed map and easy to follow ferry timetable will keep you informed! Pass the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge while relaxing on indoor or outdoor decks with free Wi-Fi. 

The Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney - suggested activity

Located on the lands of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney stands as Australia's oldest scientific institution and one of the earliest botanic gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. Positioned on the historic site of first contact between the Eora and Europeans, this lush garden is nestled between Circular Quay, the Sydney Opera House, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales, offering breathtaking views over Sydney Harbour.
The garden is home to thousands of plant species and a diverse array of wildlife, including vibrant birds, fruit bats, and water dragons. Visitors can explore various themed areas, such as the Cadi Jam Ora: First Encounters Garden, which shares the story of the Gadigal people through indigenous plants and interpretive displays. Another highlight is The Calyx, a cutting-edge horticultural display center that hosts ever-changing exhibitions focused on botany and environmental awareness.
For those seeking relaxation, the garden’s café and restaurant offer delightful dining experiences with stunning vistas, providing the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise with Cruise Sydney

Step aboard a modern 78ft cruiser to begin your stunning Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise. Designed with luxury and superb comfort in mind and with plenty of room on board, expansive main, upper, and sun decks offer 360-degree views of all the harbour’s iconic attractions as you sail past. The Sydney Harbour is photogenic at any time, but sunset is particularly special, and once the sun goes down, the gleaming cityscape comes alive in glittering lights. This dinner cruise allows you the opportunity to experience the harbour from both beautiful perspectives.
This dinner experience is a long, lavish affair, with generous meals showcasing locally sourced and regionally influenced delicacies, paired with an expansive collection of beers, wine, soft drinks, tea, or coffee.

Art Gallery of NSW - suggested activity

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of Australia's flagship art museums and the state's leading visual arts institution. It is visited by over one million people every year. It is a must-see attraction in Sydney for anyone interested in art and culture. It is a place of experience and inspiration. You can admire a renowned collection of Australian and international art and immerse yourself in the stunning art museum campus set in one of the most beautiful cultural precincts. The Art Gallery's diverse collection tells stories of human encounter and cultural exchange and offers insights into the individual creative mind. The Gallery is located in wonderful parklands settings overlooking Sydney Harbour, within short walking distance from the city centre. The Gallery features different exhibitions, events, and daily free guided tours. You can get refreshments from Gallery Cafe or Kiosk, which feature a takeaway menu with native Australian ingredients. 

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia - suggested activity

The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA) is Australia's leading museum dedicated to exhibiting, interpreting, and collecting contemporary art from across Australia and around the world. It features more than 4,000 works by Australian artists, with a strong emphasis on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. In addition to the permanent collection, it hosts a continually changing range of modern art exhibitions. The museum offers free guided tours, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in art and culture with free time in Sydney. The Museum is housed in the former Maritime Services building, which is a fine example of late Art Deco architecture. It is also a unique shopping destination specialising in Australian and international contemporary art and culture publications. You can get refreshments at the MCA Cafe, which offers modern Australian cuisine with stunning views of Sydney Harbour.

Your accommodation: Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour

Zen is a state of mind, and you’ll find yours at Vibe Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour. This property offers guests a new side to Sydney, one that celebrates an eclectic blend of hole-in-the-wall restaurants and world-class sites in close proximity.

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Day 2 - Meet Australian native animals, explore the Opera House, and enjoy Rocks Pub Tour

City, Mountains & Beach Package - Day 2
Aussie Backyard Tour at Taronga Zoo

Aussie Backyard Tour is 1.5 hour walking tour with a Zoo guide including photo opportunities and access to Australian native animals. The tour also includes Zoo entry.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Sydney Opera House Tour

Step inside an iconic landmark. The Sydney Opera House is one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks and this is your chance to truly get up-close. Run your hands over the world-famous shell tiles, take a seat in the elegant custom-made white birch timber chairs and marvel at the vaulted ceilings. Visit areas off-limits to the public and capture photographs from rare vantage points. Watch unforgettable moments from past Concert Hall performances, learning about the history and future of this world-famous hall in an immersive digital experience. Experience the future within a  purpose-built venue that boasts heritage-inspired interiors, and state-of-the-art technology, including 270-degree visuals and surround sound.
From the jaw-dropping sweep of the sails to our soaring cathedral interiors, it is impossible to complete a tour of the Sydney Opera House without being compelled to look up.

The Rocks Pub Tour with Dave's Travel Group

During this historic pub walking tour of The Rocks, you will be drinking and searching for Sydney’s oldest pub. Between watering holes, you will be guided through the alleys and cobbled streets of The Rocks as you share the gossip, shouts, & stories of Australia’s first European settlement. This tour includes a choice of beer, cider, house wine, or soft drink at each of the 4 pubs visited. Pre or post tour, you can choose an optional meal and drink extra to enjoy with your new tour mates and maybe another beer, or two.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Summit with Bridgeclimb Sydney

Experience the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Sydney, whilst scaling the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge on BridgeClimb’s original Climb experience. Feel on top of the world as you journey along the upper arch to the peak of an Australian icon, soaking in the stories from your expert Climb Leader and the sights of the Harbour and the City skyline that surround you.

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour

Zen is a state of mind, and you’ll find yours at Vibe Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour. This property offers guests a new side to Sydney, one that celebrates an eclectic blend of hole-in-the-wall restaurants and world-class sites in close proximity.

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Day 3 - Collect your rental car and head to Katoomba in the Blue Mountains

City, Mountains & Beach Package - Day 3
Collect your rental car from the Sydney City depot

Head to the Sydney CBD depot today to collect your chosen rental car, and continue your journey.

Collect your rental car

This tour can be priced with any of the rental cars available in our fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige saloons and SUVs.

Sydney to Katoomba in the Blue Mountains

Today, you will journey away from the vibrant city of Sydney and into the peace and tranquility of the Blue Mountains. On your way out of the city, you will pass Sydney Olympic Park, home to the 2000 Olympic games.
Once the M4 becomes the Great Western Motorway, you will have countless opportunities to stretch your legs as you drive through the small towns of Springwood, Wentworth Falls, and Leura before arriving into Katoomba.

Blue Mountains

The World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains is a wilderness area showcasing ancient rock formations, vast canyons and waterfalls plummeting into valleys below. The breathtaking views over the region stretch to the hazy blue horizon, while the historic village towns nestled amongst the rainforest are dotted with tea rooms, cellar doors and breweries hosted by local producers. There is no shortage of adventure in the Blue Mountains with the rugged sandstone escarpments, underground caves and deep canyons providing the perfect playground for rock climbing, abseiling, canyoning and more. Of course, relaxation is also on the cards with a number of resorts, boutique guesthouses and day spas throughout.

Walking tracks in and around Katoomba in the Blue Mountains

Three Sisters Walk
1km. Allow 45 minutes.
This family-friendly walk treats you to ever-changing views of the grand Three Sisters, rising nearly a kilometre above sea level. Pass through the archway, next to the Echo Point Visitor Centre, and you'll soon be surrounded by soaring eucalypt forest, bird calls and fresh mountain air. Keep an eye out for the superb lyrebird and crimson rosellas as you walk the gently sloping path for 450 metres to Oreades lookout. Marvel at the incredible views of the Three Sisters' weather-eroded sandstone turrets, and the hazy 'blue' Jamison Valley stretching to Mount Solitary. From here, steps lead a further 50 metres to Lady Game lookout, for a closer view of this remarkable rock formation. A short but very steep set of stairs at the top of the Giant Stairway leads to Honeymoon Bridge, which connects to the first sister.
On the way back, enjoy the short signposted detour to Spooners lookout. If you’re feeling energetic, there are plenty of longer walks nearby.
Wentworth Falls
1.4km. Allow 1 hour.
This short but steep walk from the Wentworth Falls picnic area is well worth the effort. Follow the level path past Jamison and Wentworth lookouts before descending around 200 steps to the cliff-edge Fletchers lookout. Marvel at the waterfall that gives Wentworth Falls its name, as it plunges 100m to the valley floor.
From here, it's a few more minutes down steps to the very top of the Falls, where Jamison Creek cascades into a shallow pool to one side and the magnificent Jamison Valley opens out on the other.
Make your way back via the same route, or continue for a minute along National Pass to take in exhilarating views and wonder at this incredible feat of engineering, before backtracking to the picnic area. If you're feeling energetic, combine Wentworth Falls track with the short Weeping Rock circuit, the varied Undercliff track or the historic Princes Rock lookout track.
Katoomba Falls
2km. Allow 1 hour 15 minutes.
A short yet spectacular track through a lush rainforest gully leading to lookouts that boast some of the most iconic views in Blue Mountains National Park. Excellent for adventurous walkers looking for a shorter route, Round walking track packs in a swag of spectacular vistas and waterfalls, that highlight the dramatic beauty of the Katoomba escarpment.
Take in the spectacular waterfall views from Reids Plateau before making your descent down the stairs into the shadowy gorge. In the spring the new fern shoots brush your legs and flocks of rosellas and lorikeets flit through the rainforest canopy.
At Vanimans lookout you’ll have unsurpassed views of The Three Sisters and Katoomba Falls. The medium difficulty track skirts the cliff edge leading to romantically named Juliets Balcony overlooking Witches Leap waterfall.
Ruined Castle Walking Track
7.5km. Allow 5 hours.
Ruined Castle walking track is a jewel among walks in the spectacular Blue Mountains World Heritage area. Beginning at the Golden Stairs and descending into Jamison Valley, this hard walk lets you climb one of the most recognisable landmarks in the valley; the Ruined Castle. It’s a beautiful rock formation that offers great views over the valley as far as Wentworth Falls and Katoomba.
Descending deep into the valley, you’ll enter the cool, lush rainforest with towering coachwood and sassafras, and a chance to spot a lyrebird. The track is an historic mining route with tell-tale embankments, cuttings and the tumbled ruins of miners’ cottages.
A steep scramble with some rock-hopping past large boulders leads to the impressive rock formation. At the top, enjoy unsurpassed views of Jamison Valley and Cedar Creek Valley. A perfect spot for a picnic before returning

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: The Carrington Hotel

The Carrington Hotel has celebrated a long rich history since opening its doors in August 1883. This beloved Blue Mountains landmark offers a unique ambiance and timeless elegance of a bygone era. Steeped in history, you can sense the inimitable character and charm ingrained in the very fabric of this magnificent building.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 259 kms / 161 miles : 3.6 hours

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Day 4 - Discover the iconic views and plants of this UNESCO World Heritage wilderness area

City, Mountains & Beach Package - Day 4
Scenic World Blue Mountains

There's no better way to enjoy the iconic views of the World-Heritage listed UNESCO Blue Mountains, than with the Unlimited Discovery Pass.
Navigate the site as you like, at your own pace. Hop aboard the world's steepest railway into the Jamison Valley. Explore kilometres of raised boardwalks through the rainforest, spotting Lyre Birds and ancient tree ferns amongst other flora and fauna. Ride the Cableway, to cruise past the sandstone escarpment and Orphan Rock. No visit is complete without gliding past Katoomba Falls and the Three Sisters on the iconic Skyway.

Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah - suggested activity

Discover a showcase of local and imported cool climate plants and basalt cap forests, surrounded by UNESCO World Heritage Area wilderness. Enjoy the tranquillity on the walking trails, wander the plant displays, or take a pitstop at the restaurant with views of the scenic mountains.

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: The Carrington Hotel

The Carrington Hotel has celebrated a long rich history since opening its doors in August 1883. This beloved Blue Mountains landmark offers a unique ambiance and timeless elegance of a bygone era. Steeped in history, you can sense the inimitable character and charm ingrained in the very fabric of this magnificent building.

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Day 5 - Head from the mountains to the ocean

City, Mountains & Beach Package - Day 5
Katoomba to Newcastle

From the mountains to the sea, today's journey is from Katoomba in the Blue Mountains to Newcastle on the Central Coast. This journey takes you back to Sydney's western suburbs before diverting north on the Pacific Motorway towards the Central Coast. You will be passing the Entrance, which is aptly named as it sits at the entrance to Tuggerah Lake from the Pacific Ocean and is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and boating. Continue driving via the Central Coast Highway to soak up the wonderful views of lakes on one side and the South Pacific Ocean on the other side until you arrive at your destination, the coastal town of Newcastle.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a harbour city in the Australian state of New South Wales. Its plentiful beaches are linked by the Bathers Way, a coastal walk stretching between Nobbys Beach and Merewether Beach. The walk provides access to Bogey Hole, a convict-built ocean bath from the colonial period. Also on the path is the 1880s Fort Scratchley, a historic site and a viewpoint for spotting migrating whales.

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Terminus Apartment Hotel Newcastle

Just an 8-minute walk from the sandy shores of Newcastle Beach, Terminus Apartment Hotel Newcastle offers self-contained apartments. Some feature a balcony with beautiful harbour or city views. Queens Wharf Light Rail Station is 150 m away.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 240 kms / 149 miles : 3.5 hours

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Day 6 - Meet koalas and drive from the coast to Sydney

City, Mountains & Beach Package - Day 6
General Entry Ticket to Oakvale Wildlife Park

This 100% family-owned and operated park is set on 25 acres of open space. At the park, you will find an endless menagerie of Australian native and domestic farm animals such as ducklings, rabbits, goats, sheep, cattle and horses, koalas, kangaroos, wombats, emus, dingos, alligators, and a myriad of birds as small as a quarrion and as large as an ostrich. Plus, many, many more. While you are there, watch shows, take tractor-trailer rides, talk with the park keepers, and interact with the free-roaming animals at your feet as you walk around the park. There is also playground equipment and a splash bay water park to keep the younger audience entertained.

Wildlife Encounter with a Koala at Oakvale Wildlife Park

Encounter Australia's most loved animal and meet koalas in person. This 20-minutes, behind the scene, tour includes an education koala talk, you will learn about eucalyptus and how to feed a koala. You will meet and Greet female koalas, and also get a professional souvenir photo with one of the female koalas.

Newcastle to Sydney

SydneySydneyYour today's journey down to Sydney starts at harbour city Newcastle. You can drive on Pacific Highway or do a detour towards Caves Beach. It is a locality on the Swansea peninsula between Lake Macquarie and Pacific Ocean. Explore a network of sculptural sea caves (accessed only at low tide), walk up to the lookout or have a picnic on a beach. You can also spend some time by the Lake Macquarie, apparently the largest seawater lake in the Southern Hemisphere. Wander the spectacular coastline on the Coastal Walking Track in Wallarah National Park. Keep an eye out for majestic humpback whales (May - November) or you could spot a dolphin throughout the year. If you feel like meeting more native wildlife, when you are back on the Pacific Motorway (M1), you can pop into the Australian Reptile Park, or for something more scenic, take the exit at Gosford for a great little stopover at Norah Head Lighthouse, standing proudly on the coast since 1903. After then, take again M1 Highway down to vibrant capital of New South Wales - Sydney.

Return your vehicle to Sydney Depot

Explore more of Sydney before dropping your rental car at the depot.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 126 kms / 79 miles : 1.3 hours

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