9 days in Sydney & Newcastle Itinerary

Lent iconic status as a result of its famous bridge and opera house, Sydney has a down-to-earth charm that enhances its spectacular setting and functional efficiency.

You've now added Sea Life Sydney Aquarium to your itinerary. Your cultural itinerary includes sights like The Rocks and Sydney Jewish Museum. Family-friendly places like Bondi Beach and Hyde Park Barracks will thrill your kids. Step out of Sydney to go to Manly and see Shelly Beach, which is approximately 36 minutes away. There's lots more to do: enjoy the sand and surf at Balmoral Beach, Mosman, admire the masterpieces at Art Gallery of New South Wales, stroll around Hyde Park, and admire the striking features of Sydney Opera House.

To find out how to plan a trip to Sydney, use our trip itinerary maker.

If you are flying in from Thailand, the closest major aiport is Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport. August in Sydney sees daily highs of 22°C and lows of 11°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 14th (Sun) to allow enough time to drive to Newcastle.

While Newcastle is known for its coal exports, it's also made a name for itself with a cultural boom.

Bring the kids along to Bathers Way Coastal Walk and Dudley Beach. Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Horseshoe Beach and Newcastle City Farmers Market. Next up on the itinerary: kick back and relax at Redhead Beach, test your team's savvy at popular escape rooms, make a trip to Strzelecki Scenic Lookout, and relax and rejuvenate at some of the best spas.

To see more things to do, photos, traveler tips, and other tourist information, read our Newcastle itinerary planner.

Drive from Sydney to Newcastle in 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a bus; or take a train. Traveling from Sydney in August, Newcastle is little chillier at night with lows of 7°C.