How to Spend Winter in Sydney

The weather might be cold, but the Sydney itinerary is red-hot.

What is Sydney like during the winter?

Winter in Sydney means… fewer crowds!

The temperatures stick at about 8-17 degrees during the winter. So, while it’s not cold, there’s a stark contrast from the summer heat. It gets cold in Sydney, but not cold enough to snow, although it snowed once in 1837!

Here’s what you can get up to during the winter in Sydney!

• The Sydney Fun Run: City2Surf
• Whale Watching
• Art Gallery of NSW
• Winter Night Market
• NAIDOC
• Bondi Beach Winter Festival
• Sydney entertainment
• Thredbo

The Sydney Fun Run: City2Surf

Go and check out the biggest fun run in the world!

On Sunday, 10^th August, around 80,000 runners run from the Sydney CBD to Bondi Beach. This 14km run kicks off in Hyde Park and runs to Bondi. City2Surf hold expos prior, and post-run, so there are heaps of events happening around the run itself.

This 80,000-runner-heavy group is a total mix of athletes, families, charity workers, campaigners, and those who simply want to run 14km across Sydney in a chicken costume. Expect live music, funky outfits and smiles all round. What’s not to love?

Whale watching

Watch nature’s magnificent display from any Sydney shoreline

‘Whale’ you’re in Sydney, don’t forget to watch out for whales during their migration journey! Winter is the perfect time to spot humpback whales, as they make their way up to the warmer Queensland waters for feeding and breeding. Get yourself a good viewpoint and spot whales breaching and flapping their fins.

You don’t need to go far to see this! Stand on the side of Sydney Harbour, and you’ll get a glimpse of these majestic creatures on their migration journey. But if you want to see the show of nature up close, hop on a boat tour departing the Harbour.

The Art Gallery of NSW

What’s a city break without visiting an art gallery?

Would your visit to the city be complete without visiting an art gallery or museum?

Open late on a Wednesday, the Art Gallery of NSW offers some great artwork that you can go and see. With impressive frontal architecture that promises a whole variety of art on the inside, this late 1800s-built gallery has been a local favourite in Sydney for many years. Can’t make it during the day? No worries! This gorgeous art gallery opens late on a Wednesday evening. 

And if you’re looking for a cosy bar in the CBD to keep the night going on a cold wintery evening, check out some Sydney CBD speakeasies. Old Mate’s Place is a great spot for a leather-meets-wood tiki bar/saloon vibe. Or check out the Baxter Inn for a unique underground bar that sells beautiful whiskey.

NAIDOC in the City

NAIDOC is the first week of July, nationally

NAIDOC is a country-wide celebration, acknowledgement and recognition of Indigenous culture. NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines Day and Islanders Day Observance Committee, and this celebration is held in the first week of July, annually. Get yourself down to the NAIDOC celebrations in the city to taste a whole spectrum of different Indigenous foods, listen to music and explore Indigenous artwork.

Explore the city-wide events that take place across Gadigal Land.

Bondi Beach in the winter

Visit Bondi in the winter

The Bondi Winter Festival is from July 4^th – 20^th. An iconic sunny beach in the summertime, Bondi Beach is just as popular in the winter as it is in the summer.

This winter festival completely transforms the summery beach into a wintery oasis during the colder months. There’s even a Ferris wheel where you can climb up and overlook a glittery winter ocean. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot whales and dolphins.

Ice-skating on the beach? Check.

Comedy? Check.

Art trail? Check. 

Fun? Check.

Sydney Entertainment

The theatre and music scene thrives and shines bright during the dark winter nights!

The Sydney Opera House illuminates with opera and ballet performances, and the theatre scene takes off during a Sydney winter. Or if you’re after a giggle, head to one of Sydney’s famous spots for comedy in the confines of a pub.

Head to Thredbo for snow!

Or if you want to embrace winter, head to Thredbo for some fun in the snow!

Jump on an overnight tour that arrives in Thredbo nice and early, to give you a full day out on the snow trails. Home to the longest ski run in Australia, Thredbo’s Crackenback Trail attracts visitors from all over.

Why you should go to Sydney this winter:

• Winter is an off-peak time for tourism! You’ll find cheaper hotel rates and more availability in restaurants.
• It’s perfect hiking season! The crisp winter air provides the perfect conditions for a hike to stretch your legs and warm up your muscles. Head over to the Blue Mountains for beautiful hikes with unforgettable views.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward began with a passion for travel and turned it into a thriving tourism business. He co-founded Sightseeing Tours Australia after starting out as a tour guide in Melbourne. Cameron delights in helping visitors get the most from their trip to Australia. Whether he's leading tours or writing about his favourite places, Cameron loves sharing his local insight with fellow travellers.