Sydney, looking for inspiration to experience your city in a whole new way?

From the CBD to Newport, Cronulla and even out south-west to the bustling streets of Cabramatta; if you’re all work and no play, then get ready to fall back in love with one of the greatest cities on earth, our very own Sydney.

As part of their newest initiative recognising the importance of taking a break from the everyday, Destination NSW are asking Sydney residents to make the time to support their city and experience everything that it has to offer with the launch of their Sydney Playcation itineraries.

From luxurious harbourside hotel suites to some of Sydney’s best restaurants and bars, signature spa treatment and the best shopping spots, it’s time to re-immerse ourselves into some of Sydney’s most famed neighbourhoods.

Found right on your doorstep, Destination NSW’s Sydney Playcation itineraries aim for Australians to support their local businesses and celebrate the eclectic and distinct opportunities Sydney has to offer for both visitors and locals alike.

New South Wales Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres, encourages Sydneysiders to rediscover why this beautiful city is one of the world’s most desirable destinations.

“Our inspiring waterfront views, city beaches, amazing bars and restaurants and unique attractions are not just for international visitors – they’re ready to welcome us back and remind us what makes Sydney special in a new, COVID safe context.”

With seven itineraries available that were meticulously curated to suit the likes of every type of Sydney holidayers – from family-friendly fun to foodie feasts, immersive cultural experiences, the romantic at heart, wellness wanderers and even those who thrive off a little luxury – Destination NSW has got it all down pat;  And, of course, each itinerary is conveniently located across Sydney and its surrounds.

<strong>Luxury</strong>
Photographed by Sydney Seaplanes.

Luxury

After checking into the five-star Park Hyatt Sydney, luxury lovers will board the Tango – the largest private charter vessel in Sydney Harbour. They’ll indulge in a seven-course feast at Matt Moran’s Aria restaurant with front-row views to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Finally, to end on a high note, book a Sydney Seaplane to Newport for a spot of lunch.

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Family

For some real family-friendly fun, start by getting up close and personal with the wildlife at Taronga Zoo Sydney and SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. Before tucking into bed come night-time at the Four Seasons Sydney as part of the Family Fun Package, where you’ll sleep in a teepee, keep your eye out for a shooting star and make a wish on the Twilight Climb with BridgeClimb Sydney – panoramic views of the Sydney’s city skyline included.

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Foodie

If you’d rather wine and dine, ditch the loungewear and put on your Sunday best before heading off on a feasting fiesta. Start with a rum spicing masterclass with Brix Distillers, and then sit up front and centre at Firedoor to experience their five-course tasting menu designed by renowned chef Lennox Hastie. Then, to work it all off, stretch those legs by wandering from stall to stall at Carriageworks Farmers Markets and end with a guided Aboriginal bush tucker tour and picnic in the Royal Botanic Garden.

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Arts & Culture

For a culturally immersive Sydney-based experience, Destination NSW’s Culture Playcation itinerary will check everything off the list. Start with a pop of colour at the Art Gallery of New South Wales to view their latest exhibitions including Under the Stars and the upcoming Streeton. Before you say cheers at Freda’s bar in Chippendale, graze your way through The Stinking Bishops collection of over 40 hand selected artisanal cheeses and cured meats.

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Romance

Forget the box of chocolates, Sydney is redesigning the meaning of love with this romantic journey through the city. Start by checking into Pier One Sydney’s Luxe Igloo Suites. After you fall head over heels for your new found favourite cocktail at Mister Percy, dine in luxury at LuMi Dining. You’re sure to find that love is in the air when heading off an a couples picnic within the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney with a premade hamper by Sydney Picnic Co.

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South West Sydney

Start by visiting Sydney Zoo that’s under a 50-minute drive out of Sydney’s CBD. To replenish your tastebuds, The Paper Mill will have you covered with their precinct of eateries including Firepit, Charcoal Joe’s, Shepherd’s Lane and Georgies. After your overnight stay at the William Inglis Hotel, the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre will entertain you before you head off to explore the bustling streets of Cabramatta.

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Cronulla

If health and wellness is more to your taste, let Cronulla serve you up a degustation of this and so much more. Begin your day with a rejuvenating yoga session on the beach with Ying Bean before you feed your soul and stomach at oceanside ZimZala and Next Door Cafe. Spend the afternoon snapping up photos of the local street art before shaking your way into some delectable cocktails thanks to The Blind Bear. Of course for some much needed beauty sleep, book the family in for a beach-side stay at Rydges Cronulla.

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Destination NSW chief executive officer, Steve Cox, said Destination NSW had developed the new Sydney Playcation itineraries to encourage Sydneysiders to take a break from the working-from-home routine and get out and enjoy their city.

“Our Sydney Playcation itineraries are a shout out to locals to come and show the city some love. The world-class experiences and venues that are so integral to the fabric of Sydney are still here and these businesses need our support,” said Mr Cox.

It’s a reminder to Sydney locals that there are still so many great experiences ready to be enjoyed within the bounds of our mesmerising city; now, more than ever, is the perfect time to support our businesses by exploring everything Sydney has to offer in a COVID safe way.

For more information on Sydney and to view Destination NSW’s Sydney Playcation itineraries, visit their website to learn more.

Editor’s Note: Hunter and Bligh was gifted an experience by Destination NSW. All reviews are authentic and are in no way influenced by our partnership.
All images supplied by Destination NSW.