When we hear the term “holiday destinations”, people often conjure up fantasies of warmer climates, a cocktail in hand and waves lapping at the sparkling shore (extra points for some Baja Fish Tacos delivered straight to the sun lounger, but we’re not picky).
But for those of us who lean into the Hygge lifestyle (a Scandinavian word to describe a warm and cosy vibe), the perfect getaway takes place in the winter months.
Thanks to a new campaign from Destination NSW, Sydney – the city known for its outdoor lifestyle and summer experiences – has been pitched as a top holiday spot for those looking to get into the warm and woollies. If our cosy pubs with fireplaces are anything to go by, we’d say the theory checks out.
The ‘Feel the Sydney side of winter’ campaign has launched to showcase the delights on offer in Sydney through the colder months, and you might be pleasantly surprised to learn how much there is to see and do when the temps drop.
Sure, the harbour comes alive during summer (so much so that it ranked as the best winter sun destination in the world for residents of the Northern Hemisphere). But have you ever popped on a pair of ugg boots and sipped a mug of mulled wine while watching the whales cruise past Clovelly?
A report from Tourism Research Australia revealed that in 2024, 8.7 million domestic and international travellers visited Sydney between June and September. Which means a lot of people like the cut of our winter jib, and we can’t blame ’em.
If you’re not afraid to pop on a puffer (and actually delight in doing so) you can grab a ticket to one of the theatre spectaculars lighting up stages across the city. Prefer to take culture at your own pace? Marvel at the arts by heading along to an exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art or the Art Gallery of NSW. More into sports than art? Catch the State of Origin game three decider at Accor Stadium or head down to cheer on the runners at the TCS Sydney Marathon.
If you prefer to explore a city without a real plan in hand, our (relatively) mild winters mean that visitors won’t have to battle through snowstorms to head off on an adventure; a good attitude (and perhaps a few restaurant recs) is all you need to head out onto Sydney’s streets.
No need to be a hermit this winter – get your scarf on and start exploring!
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