Why Sydney is What Country Has the Best New Years Show
When the question arises—what country has the best New Years show—Australia answers with a billion eyes watching. Sydney Harbour becomes a stage of light, utilizing the bridge, opera house, and barges.
This 3-day itinerary gets you front row seats. You'll sunbathe on Bondi, cruise the harbour, and witness the 'Midnight Fireworks' that define the global celebration.
Your 3-Day Sydney New Year Itinerary
Discover what country has the best New Years show with this harbour-side plan.
Day 1: Dec 30: Harbour Icons
Get your bearings on the world's most beautiful harbour.
Sydney Opera House
Architectural Marvel
The sailboat-inspired performing arts centre that defines the skyline.
Why You Should Visit:
Walk around its sails and plan your view for tomorrow. It confirms why Sydney is what country has the best New Years show.
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Train to Circular Quay
2 hours
How to Reach:
Walk from Circular Quay station.
Insider Tip:
Grab a drink at the Opera Bar for sunset views of the bridge.
The Rocks
Historic Quarter
Cobblestone laneways filled with pubs and markets right under the bridge.
Why You Should Visit:
Soak up the pre-NYE buzz in the city's oldest neighborhood.
All Day
Walk
3 hours
How to Reach:
Right next to Circular Quay.
Insider Tip:
Visit the Glenmore Hotel rooftop for a sneaky bridge view.
Day 1 Dining: Seafood
Fresh catches by the water.
Sydney Cove Oyster Bar
Oysters with a view.
The Squire's Landing
Brewhouse with bridge vistas.
Day 2: Dec 31: The Spectacle
The night the world watches.
Royal Botanic Garden
Prime Viewing
Waterfront parklands offering direct lines of sight to the bridge and opera house.
Why You Should Visit:
This is the premium spot. Being here proves what country has the best New Years show.
Gates open 8-10 AM
Walk
All Day
How to Reach:
Entry via Art Gallery Rd or Macquarie St.
Insider Tip:
Most areas are ticketed (paid or free ballot). Book months ahead.
Harbour Bridge Fireworks
The Main Event
Two shows: 9 PM family fireworks and Midnight massive display.
Why You Should Visit:
The waterfall effect off the bridge is legendary. The scale is unmatched.
9:00 PM & 12:00 AM
Stay put!
20 min
How to Reach:
You are already in your spot.
Insider Tip:
Listen to the synchronized soundtrack on the radio.
Day 2 Dining: Picnic
Pack a hamper for the park.
Picnic Hamper
Pre-order gourmet boxes.
Food Trucks
Available inside ticketed zones.
Day 3: Jan 1: Bondi Rescue
Wash off the previous year in the ocean.
Bondi Beach
Sun & Surf
Australia's most famous crescent of white sand.
Why You Should Visit:
A New Year's Day swim is an Aussie tradition. It's the perfect recovery.
All Day
Bus 333
4 hours
How to Reach:
Bus 333 from the City to Bondi Beach.
Insider Tip:
Do the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk if you have energy.
Day 3 Dining: Brunch
Aussie breakfast is world-class.
Bills Bondi
Famous ricotta hotcakes.
Speedos Cafe
Instagrammable healthy bowls.