The best things to do in Sydney during winter

Posted by Paige L.
5
Nov 23, 2022
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The best time to visit Sydney is during the winter months, when the weather is cooler and the city is less crowded. There are plenty of things to do in Sydney during winter, from exploring the city's many museums and art galleries to taking a stroll through one of its beautiful parks. The city’s temperate climate means that it doesn’t get as cold in Sydney as much of the rest of Australia does. 


So even if it does snow outside, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of icicles hanging from the eaves, or just being indoors with friends and family. There are also some great winter activities for those who like to get active even when it is freezing out. Here we list some of our favourite things to do in Sydney during winter:


Ice skating at the Royal Botanic Gardens


The Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney is a beautiful place to visit any time of year. But in winter, the gardens take on a magical quality, with the ice skating rink adding a touch of festive fun. This outdoor rink has lights for night-time skating and the slippery surface provides a fun challenge. Also, if you’re feeling competitive, you can take part in an ice-skating competition!

This activity is perfect for all ages and skill levels, and is a great way to enjoy the gardens in winter.  Whether you're a seasoned skater or have never stepped onto the ice before, Ice Skating at the Royal Botanic Gardens is an experience not to be missed.


Visit the Australian Museum for its winter exhibitions


The Australian Museum is a world class museum and winter is the perfect time to visit with three new exhibitions on display. The ' wilderness Survival' exhibition will take you on a journey through the Australian bush, while the 'Invisible Mending' and 'Into the Night Garden' exhibitions focus on the skilled techniques of Invisible Mending and contemporary quilt making respectively. With something for everyone, a visit to the Australian Museum this winter is a must!


The Australian Museum is an iconic Sydney attraction. It houses a plethora of fascinating exhibits and displays which change every six months or so to keep the museum interesting throughout its lifespan. This year, it has a few great winter exhibitions on offer.


See a show at the Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is one of Australia's most iconic buildings and a must-see for any visitor to the city. But did you know that you can also see a show there? From ballet to opera, theatre to music, there's something for everyone at the Sydney Opera House. 


It is a spectacular building, and it’s also open during winter! You can take in some of the best musical performances around, or even a film screening. If you want to enjoy a show without having to worry about taking coats or layers of clothing, it’s the perfect venue for you. So why not add a visit to this world-famous venue to your list of things to do in Sydney?


Visit Taronga Zoo for some winter animal sightings


There are lots of animals in Sydney, but some species are more active during winter. Some of the best places to see these animals are at Taronga Zoo. One animal that is often seen in Sydney during winter is Koalas. They spend a lot of their time sleeping when it is cold, but if you visit the zoo when they’re awake, you might see them playing or moving around in their enclosure. 


Another animal that might be visible at the zoo this winter is penguins. They’re very social and will be seen swimming, resting, and climbing all over one another in their enclosure whenever they get a chance. This makes Taronga Zoo one of the best things to do in Sydney during winter because it offers some great animal sightings as well as opportunities for people to learn more about them (if they want).


Take a walk around Hyde Park


Have you ever wanted to take a walk around one of the most beautiful parks in Sydney, but didn't know when the best time would be? Winter is actually the ideal time to visit Hyde Park! It is a lovely place to visit during winter. 


The leaves on the trees turn a beautiful red, and you can always find a few snowflakes floating around. Even though it's cold, there are still plenty of things to do in Hyde Park! It may be chilly but there are plenty of things for everyone - from families looking for fun activities together or groups of people who want some peace-and-quiet time alone - that will keep them warm throughout these colder months ahead. Here are a few ideas: 


  • Go for a walk - There are many different routes you can take, and you're sure to see some stunning scenery along the way. Make sure to bundle up though!

  • Visit the museums - The Hyde Park Barracks Museum and The Australian Museum are both located within the park. They're both great places to learn more about the history of Australia.

  • Have a picnic - Grab some friends and head to Hyde Park for a winter picnic! Just don't forget your blankets and hot chocolate. 

  • Go ice skating - If you're feeling adventurous, why not go ice skating at one of Sydney's outdoor rinks? It's a great way to get exercise and have some fun. 

  • Take pictures - Hyde Park is absolutely gorgeous during wintertime, so make sure to snap some photos while you're there. You'll definitely want to remember your time in this special place!

Whether you're visiting Sydney for the first time or you're a local looking for something to do, Hyde Park is a great option during winter. You'll find plenty of space to stretch your legs, and the views are simply gorgeous. So bundle up and enjoy a winter stroll through one of Sydney's most beloved parks!


Catch a movie at one of Sydney's independent cinemas


If you're in the mood for a movie but want to avoid the overpriced popcorn and sticky floors of your local multiplex, why not check out one of Sydney's many independent cinemas? These intimate venues show a mix of art-house, foreign, and mainstream films, and offer a more relaxed (and often cheaper) alternative to the big chain theatres. 


Sydney has a whole range of independent cinemas that show smaller productions and documentaries. Theatres like Cinema Nova are some of the best around and offer screenings on the weekends. They have very competitive prices, so it is great value for money!


It is an alternative to the mainstream movie theatres in Sydney, consider catching a flick at one of the city's independent cinemas. These unique venues offer a variety of films that you won't find elsewhere, and they provide a more intimate setting for enjoying your favourite cinematic entertainment. Whether you're a film buff or just looking for something different, be sure to check out one of Sydney's independent cinemas.

 

Enjoy a hot chocolate at one of Sydney's many cafes



Coffee lovers will have a great time in Sydney during winter! With so many cafes and coffee shops in the city, you’ll never run out of warm beverages to sip on while you enjoy the sights. There are also plenty of places to grab a hot chocolate, or even an Americano before you head off for your next adventure. Love ice-skating? 


Head down to one of Sydney's many outdoor rinks and work on those skills. Rentals are available at most outdoor rinks if you want to share with friends! Want to experience what it’s like to go skiing without actually going anywhere? Take a break from the cold and visit The Sydney Ice Rink. It only takes two hours to be able to learn how to glide on a blade gracefully, so don't let the weather get you down!


Go for a hike in the Blue Mountains


Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, and the Blue Mountains in Sydney are a beautiful place to go for a hike. If you’re a nature lover, it is an excellent place to go during winter. One of the most popular ways to get around the bush track is on horseback. You can even take your own horse if you want!


There are plenty of trails to choose from too, so you can find one that is perfect for your fitness level. And, once you reach the top of the trail, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the city and beyond. So grab your hiking boots and head to the Blue Mountains for an unforgettable day out!


Sydney is a great city to visit all year round, but there are definitely some advantages to visiting during winter. From stunning winter sunsets to cosy restaurants and bars, here are our top picks for the best things to do in Sydney during winter. If you’re looking for a place to stay,  we recommend The Savoy Hotel in Sydney – it offers luxury accommodation right on the harbour with stunning views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
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