Sydney in December is a great time to spend outdoors with friends and family. The weather is usually mild and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as swimming, surfing, and beach walks. There are also plenty of cultural activities to explore, such as visiting the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales
With festive events and activities to enjoy, such as Christmas markets, carols, and fireworks you can explore, shop, relax and enjoy the sunshine.
Here are 10 things you should not miss in Sydney this December.
Attend the Sydney Festival
Sydney Festival is an annual arts festival held in Sydney, Australia. It is one of the largest arts festivals in the world and is held over a period of one month each year. The festival features a wide range of events, including theatre, dance, music, visual arts, circus, and more. It also includes a range of free events, such as outdoor concerts, street performances, and art installations. The festival attracts over 1.5 million visitors each year.
Did you know?
The first festival took place in 1977 and it has now grown to become one of Australia's largest annual cultural celebrations.
Watch the New Year's Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbour
The New Year's Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbour are a spectacular sight to behold. Every year, the city of Sydney puts on a dazzling display of fireworks that light up the night sky. The fireworks are launched from barges in the harbour and from the Sydney Harbour Bridge, creating a stunning display of colour and light. The show is accompanied by music, making it an unforgettable experience. The fireworks usually start at 9 pm and last for around 15 minutes. Whether you're a local or a tourist, it is a great way to end the year with a brilliant showcase of fireworks at one of Sydney's most glorious waterfront locations.
Take a tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House
Designed by Danish Architect Jorn Utzon, this UNESCO World Heritage Centre is set in a remarkable waterscape. The initial estimate to build the Sydney Opera House was $7 million. The final cost upon completion was $102 million, most of it paid for by a State Lottery. There are over 10.9 million people who visit the Opera House every year. If technology and innovation amaze you, this is a must-visit place.
You can enjoy Holst’s the planets and Britten performance of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra this December. for a musical journey that is out of this world.
Visit the Blue Mountains National Park
Famous for its dramatic scenery, The Blue Mountains has steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, waterfalls, and villages dotted with guesthouses, galleries, and gardens along the rugged region west of Sydney. This world heritage wilderness begins 60km west of Sydney.
The Greater Blue Mountains Drive takes in the iconic scenery of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. You can rent a car on Drive mate and plan your trip with ease.
Visit the Taronga Zoo and take a ferry ride to the island
Love wildlife? Do not miss a trip to Taronga Zoo. This zoo will bring you face-to-face with numerous exotic species from all over the globe. Sitting in the middle of the Sydney harbor, Taronga Zoo boasts the biggest range of land-based animals you can see in Sydney. That is 4000 animals from over 350 species. Did we tell you that you can enjoy spectacular views of beautiful Sydney Harbour too?
Visit Bondi Beach for a day of sun and surf
Head to Australia’s most iconic beach if you want a stretch of white sand and reliable waves to surf. Being the closest beach to the city centre, it is a go-to destination for all beach lovers. Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, enjoying a meal at one of the beachside cafes - you pick. If you have kids, you can access the 50-metre ocean pool and a children’s pool at the southern end too.
Here is a fun fact:
Bondi Beach in Sydney has been viewed on TikTok a staggering 445.8 million times
Enjoy a holiday shopping spree at the Queen Victoria Building
A five-level shopping centre located in the heart of Sydney's CBD, The Queen Victoria Building also called the QVB is Sydney’s most popular and sought-after shopping centre. This building was beautifully restored and re-opened in 1986.
Housing some fashionable boutiques, restaurants, cafes, homeware, and jewellery stores in Sydney. Don’t miss the Royal Automata Clock, right in the centre of the complex which chimes on the hour from 9 am to 9 pm.
Tour the historic Rocks area of Sydney
Visiting the Rocks is one of the best things you can do in Sydney. It’s the first permanent dwellings were built here and hence its name.
The Rocks is Sydney's authentic historic maritime village, a place that the early colonial settlers called home. Retaining much of the character and charm of its colourful past, you can eat, drink, shop, and stay, any day in December or watch the fireworks on New Year's Eve. Cafes, markets, entertainment, and heritage buildings set in a beautiful colonial setting will give you a glimpse of the past.
Be it team outings, Christmas dinner, gift kits and family time with kids - there is something for everyone here.
Take a walking tour of the Royal Botanic Gardens
This 30-hectare botanical garden, located in the heart of Sydney is one of the most important historic botanical institutions in the world. A tranquil oasis on the edge of one of the world's great natural harbours, you can enjoy a picnic and also get some fresh air. Established in 1816 the Royal Botanic Garden is the oldest scientific institution in Australia.
Enjoy a show at the Sydney Theatre Company
Witness an eclectic program of Australian plays, interpretations of the classic repertoire with one-of-a-kind performances, globe-trotting journeys and stories at the Sydney Theatre Company. Watch RBG: Of many, One by Suzie Miller, The Tempest by William Shakespeare or get a sneak peek of a work in progress at Rough Draft all in the month of December.
Looking for a car to share or rent so you can explore Sydney in December? Book one on Drive mate, Australia's fastest-growing peer-to-peer car-sharing platform. Rent cars on an hourly, daily, or monthly basis for a more flexible car rental and sharing in Australia. Ditch those outrageous premiums from big-brand car rental mobs.
