How to Plan the Perfect Family Holiday in Sydney

Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo offers the perfect blend of education and entertainment. Little animal lovers can enjoy up-close encounters with giraffes, meerkats, and even elephants. When lunchtime rolls around, grab a takeaway from The View and enjoy a picnic with sweeping harbour views.

The Museum of Contemporary Art continues to surprise and delight families with creative, hands-on experiences. Visitors can enjoy Primavera 2024: Young Australian Artists exhibition, showcasing bold and innovative works by up-and-coming Australian artists under 35. And if that wasn’t enough, the museum also offers a vibrant mix of contemporary exhibitions and interactive programs designed to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages

The coastal walk that links Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach is iconic for a reason. The 6 kilometer return trip takes trekkers past some of the most breathtaking seaside views in all of Sydney, and the opportunity to dip into the ocean several times along the way certainly doesn’t hurt.  The walk is classed as easy, and with a fully paved path and plenty of spots for toilets breaks, it’s ideal for families with children of all ages as well.

Join a First Nations-led tour through the Royal Botanic Garden to learn about the land’s traditional custodians, the Gadigal people. The Aboriginal Heritage and Harbour Tour shares stories, language and native bush ingredients, while the Bush Tucker Tour offers an immersive look at traditional uses of plants.

Sydney’s theatre scene is alive with performances to suit every age group. At the Theatre Royal, SIX the Musical reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII in a pop-powered production that older children and teens will enjoy. For a more traditional outing, The Nutcracker returns to the Sydney Opera House, offering a festive ballet filled with charm, colour and timeless music.

No trip to Sydney is complete without a surf lesson at Bondi. With Bondi’s beginner-friendly swells and experienced instructors who cater to all ages and skill levels, even total novices will feel at ease. Many schools even offer private family lessons for a flat fee, making the afternoon all the more memorable.

One of the best ways to really take in Sydney? Hop on a ferry through the harbour and head for beautiful Manly. The 30-minute journey takes you past iconic landmarks before arriving at charming Manly Wharf. Once there, enjoy a family-friendly afternoon of esplanade strolls, fresh fish and chips, and beachside lounging. Time your return trip with sunset for some truly spectacular views.

It’s nearly impossible to wander through a Sydney suburb without passing a gelato shop that someone, somewhere has touted as the best in the city. From cult favourites like Messina, to local gems like Mapo Gelato, sampling a new flavour each day is an easy and delicious challenge. Try as many as you can, then cast your family vote for the ultimate favourite before the holiday ends.

Introduce the little ones to an afternoon of sophistication with a memorable family High Tea. Set amongst the historic arches of Sydney’s original Treasury Building of 1851, InterContinental Sydney’s afternoon tea offers a dedicated children’s menu. While mum and dad enjoy a glass of Australian sparkling and organic Mayde Tea alongside three tiers of artfully prepared high tea classics, the children can choose from a mocktail or juice to go alongside their special selection.

Explore the Harbour City from InterContinental Sydney’s prime Circular Quay location. Learn more about our exclusive Family Getaway offer at the link below.