40 Best Winter Activities in Sydney By Locals (2025)
THOUGHT WINTER MEANT STAYING IN WITH A BLANKET AND A HOT CHOCOLATE? LET US PROVE YOU WRONG WITH OUR LIST OF 40 WINTER ACTIVITIES IN SYDNEY!
We get it, once the temperature dips, it’s tempting to stay curled up inside. But Sydney in winter has other plans for you. From glowing lights across the harbour to whales breaching off the coast, there’s a whole season’s worth of magic waiting just outside.
Vivid Sydney may have already kicked things off, but that’s just the start. You can enjoy the film festivals, Christmas in July, hidden bookstores, coastal walks, warm ramen, and weekends spent soaking in Japanese bathhouses.
We’ve pulled together this epic list of the 40 best winter activities in Sydney to help you make the most of the season. Bring the kids, make it a couple’s weekend, or just head out on your own!
Winter in Sydney
Sydney’s winter runs from June to August, with temperatures usually ranging between 9°C and 19°C. Some days dip as low as 5°C, while others surprise you with warm bursts reaching up to 25°C.
Sydney does get a fair bit of rain in winter, around 297 mm across the season, with June being the wettest month. Rainy, windy days can feel colder than the forecast suggests, especially along the coast or in the mountains. Find a more detailed month-by-month breakdown of Sydney’s climate here.
You might even find yourself on a spontaneous day trip this season. The Hunter Valley is perfect for wine tasting without the summer crowds. The Blue Mountains are made for quiet cliffside hikes and crisp views. Or head inland for a long soak at one of the best bathhouses we’ve visited (more on that below). If a winter escape is on your mind, here’s our full list of 17 best day trips from Sydney!.
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH MY FAVORITE RESOURCES
– Best accommodation site: Agoda.com
– Book day tours here: GetYourGuide.com
– Purchase Travel Insurance here: SafetyWing
– Cheapest Car Rental: DiscoverCars
Winter Events in Sydney
Before we get started with the list of winter activities in Sydney, here are the events that are happening this season:
Vivid Sydney
🗓️23 May to 14 June
Vivid Sydney is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest festival, celebrating food, light, music, and creative ideas with a fresh theme each year. If you’re new to Sydney, check out our reels from 2024 and 2023 to get a glimpse of the festival’s atmosphere. We’ve experienced four editions of Vivid and absolutely love the city’s vibrant vibe during this time! For the full event lineup of 2025, you can refer to our Vivid Sydney 2025 guide.
This year, the festival spans four neighborhoods: Circular Quay & The Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, The Goods Line, CBD, and Martin Place (returning for the first time since 2018). We suggest dedicating a day to each area to explore the light installations and soak in the energy, especially since around 75% of the festival is free!
Read our Vivid Sydney 2025 guide here
City 2 Surf Running Festival
🗓️August 10
This one’s for the early risers (and the people who love a challenge). City2Surf is Sydney’s biggest fun run and covers a 14 km route from Sydney’s CBD to Bondi Beach. Some people run to set a time, others dress in costume and dance their way down the street.
The energy is electric. Locals line the route to cheer on the runners, DJs set up on footpaths, and you finish with a massive crowd spread out on the sand at Bondi. Whether you’re running or just watching, it’s a great excuse to get outdoors.
Winter Solstice Festival
🗓️ 21 June
On Saturday, June 21, 2025, Pocket City Farms hosts the Winter Solstice Festival at Camperdown Commons from noon to 6 pm. The event begins with a traditional Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony to honour the land’s First Nations custodians. Throughout the day, you can join workshops and farm tours focused on sustainable practices, explore market stalls filled with local produce and crafts, and enjoy live entertainment that adds to the festive mood.
As the afternoon fades, get involved in lantern making before taking part in a lantern parade around the farm at 4:30 pm.
Bastille Sydney Festival
🗓️ 17-20 July
Every July, the Circular Quay foreshore transforms into a mini Parisian street fair. Expect rows of cheese stalls, French wine bars, fresh pastries, and even raclette being scraped onto potatoes right in front of you. It’s festive, it smells incredible, and it’s a strong contender for the best winter street food experience in the city.
Entry is free, and you can just wander through or buy a tasting pass for wine and food pairings. Come hungry!
Bondi Festival
🗓️4 July to 20 July
If you’ve ever dreamt of winter by the sea with theatre, music, and a laid-back buzz that only Bondi can pull off, this festival’s your mid-year fix.
From July 4 to 20, 2025, Bondi Festival brings winter to the beach in the most fun way possible. The Bondi Ice Rink is back, set right by the sand, where you can skate with ocean views. Just nearby, the Bondi Vista Ferris Wheel takes you 25 metres above the coastline for sweeping views of sea and city. Every Saturday, the Blue Sky Markets pop up with local food, drinks, and handmade finds!
The festival also brings in a packed line-up of live music, comedy, and theatre across different venues, including big names like Meg Washington and Betty Grumble. There are art shows, creative workshops, and plenty of family-friendly events, so it’s worth checking what’s on before you go. We’ll tell you that much, Bondi in July knows how to turn the cold into something electric.
Loco Markets
🗓️ 10 June to 27 July
Watch the streets transform into a winter wonderland during Sydney’s six-week-long Loco Market! Running every Thursday to Sunday, this vibrant winter market features themed weeks with a rotating lineup of stalls and entertainment.
Expect family-friendly fun, including face painting and craft zones for kids, plus karaoke, DJs, warming food trucks, and artisan stalls selling everything from skincare to seasonal treats. It’s only a few minutes’ walk from Redfern Station to the Loco Markets, and entry is free. With something new to enjoy each week, it’s worth coming back more than once!
Read our Loco Market guide here
40 Best Winter Activities in Sydney
1. Steam, Soak, Repeat at the Japanese Bathhouse
Treat yourself to a soul-refreshing spa session at one of the few bathhouses in NSW that lets you experience the Japanese spa culture! Just 40 minutes from Chalets at Blackheath, this hidden gem in the Blue Mountains feels nothing like the rush of city life.
The onsen overlooks Lake Lyell and lets you unwind in a variety of luxurious hot baths filled with natural mineral water, all within a beautifully designed Japanese garden. I have to say, our experience was incredible, and we highly recommend coming here to relax your mind and body this winter in Sydney.
2. Go to the Snowy Mountains
Credit: Destination NSW
If sitting in a hot bath isn’t your idea of fun, how about a staycation in the Snowy Mountains? It’s one of the best getaways in NSW, where you can experience snow, go skiing or snowboarding in the best snow resorts of Australia like Thredbo and Perisher, and relax in cozy alpine lodges.
We recommend spending three days in the Snowy Mountains. For details on what to do each day, where to stay, and where to eat, check out our 3-day Snowy Mountains itinerary. We did this road trip from Sydney with friends and rented a Sixt through Discover Cars.
There are a few important things to keep in mind when renting a car and driving in the snow. For tips on driving in the Snowy region, what to expect on the road, and the full route with pit stops, read our guide here.
3. Spot the Sea Giants in Sydney
Every year, humpback whales make an incredible 10,000 km journey along Australia’s east coast between May and November, migrating from the icy waters of Antarctica to the warmer northern breeding grounds. And lucky for us, Sydney is right along their path. The best time to go whale watching in Sydney is between mid-June and mid-September, when sightings are most frequent.
We booked this budget-friendly whale watching tour for around $65, departing from Circular Quay. The cruise runs for about 1.5 hours and gets you up close to these gentle giants. If you want a sneak peek, you can watch our reel here! We had a 10/10 experience!
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4. Take A Turkish Lamp Workshop to Beat the Winter Blues
Looking for unique winter activities in Sydney? Warm up with a cozy, hands-on mosaic lamp workshop! In this 2.5-hour class, you’ll design and create your own colourful masterpiece, from delicate candle holders and mini table lamps to eye-catching swan or moon lamps. Workshops start at just $69 and include traditional Turkish tea and homemade shortbread cookies to enjoy while you craft.
Check prices and availability here.
5. A Day Trip to the Southern Highlands
The Southern Highlands is one of the most scenic regions near Sydney, known for its rolling green hills, charming villages, and peaceful countryside vibe. Just 1.5 hours from the city (about 150 km), it’s perfect for a quick escape into nature and history.
Start your day at the Instagram-famous Milton Park gates in Milton Park Country House. Explore NSW’s largest rail museum in Thirlmere, where you can see a 120-year-old locomotive and even meet Thomas the Tank Engine. This day trip is especially stunning in autumn, but it’s just as enjoyable any time of year. (Fun fact: Nicole Kidman has a home here!)
6. Go on a Penguin Expedition Boat Ride
Did you know your Sea Life Sydney Aquarium ticket includes a free Penguin Expedition boat ride at the time of writing? This is the world’s first-of-its-kind ride where you can get up close to a colony of King and Gentoo Penguins, the fastest of all penguin species, reaching speeds of up to 36 km/h in the water! Each boat seats just six people, taking you on a gentle ride along a river right into the heart of the icy penguin habitat.
Check prices and availability here.
7. Tour the Hunter Valley Vineyards with a Tasting or Two!
Got a wine craving? Head to the Hunter Valley, NSW’s premier wine region, just a couple of hours from Sydney. Known for its incredible cellar doors, scenic countryside, and top-tier food, this region has been producing wine since the 1820s and is now home to over 150 wineries.
It can get overwhelming, so we recommend starting with Brokenwood, Lake’s Folly, and Mount Pleasant, all of them have fantastic reviews and tasting experiences.
If you’re staying a night or two, do your wine tastings on one day and save the next morning for a hot air balloon ride! We did ours with Balloon Aloft (in Camden Valley), but they also fly over the Hunter Valley. Even though we were invited by the tour operator, we genuinely loved the entire experience, floating over vineyards at sunrise was unreal. Absolutely worth it!
Check prices of the hot air balloon ride here
8. Experience the Blue Mountains in Winter
The Blue Mountains are an all-year-round destination thanks to how close they are to Sydney, but winter adds a special kind of magic. Visiting the Japanese Bathhouse, Scenic World, and doing the Prince Henry Cliff Walk are just a few highlights that shine in the colder months. Don’t miss the Katoomba Falls lookout, where you’ll get sweeping views of Jamison Valley with Mount Solitary to your left.
Scenic World has stepped up its game with the addition of Beyond Skyway, a rooftop walk on top of the iconic Scenic Cableway! If your budget allows, we highly recommend trying this one-of-a-kind experience. If not, the regular Scenic Skyway and Railway rides are just as incredible and easily count among the best winter activities in Sydney.
Check tours from Sydney to the Blue Mountains here
9. Hop on a Tall Ship Vivid Dinner Cruise
If you’ve been to Vivid Sydney, you know it can get very crowded, and if you’re anything like us, big crowds can feel a bit much. To switch things up, we decided to try a Vivid dinner cruise, and it was a great experience! We watched the major light installations around Sydney Harbour, caught a gorgeous sunset, and were served a cheese platter and light refreshments along the way.
The cruise takes you past key festival spots like Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, and of course, the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, same fun, just better!
10. Have an Awesome ‘Secret Bars & Stories’ Night in Sydney
Say yes to a night of hidden gems and good chaos with this secret bar crawl through Sydney! You’ll hop between four incredible bars, each with its own vibe, story, and signature drink included. Expect quirky games, unexpected challenges, and a whole lot of banter with fellow explorers. It’s hosted by a local who knows how to turn strangers into mates by the end of the night. Perfect if you’ve just landed in Sydney and want to experience the nightlife, but don’t have your party crew yet. This tour is the crew!
11. Go Glamping in Glenworth Valley
If you’re after a luxe escape without the hassle of planning, glamping in Glenworth Valley is a win. Just over an hour from Sydney (pop 69 Cooks Rd into Maps), this Central Coast spot feels worlds away. I’ve been twice now, and honestly? It’s the kind of getaway where you just show up and everything’s taken care of, from the plush beds to the fire pit under the stars.
Wake up to crisp air and rolling hills, then spend your day horse riding, abseiling, or tearing through trails on a quad bike. If you’re curious about what it’s actually like, what to pack, or just want to snoop around the tents, we’ve written all about our luxury glamping experience in Glenworth Valley.
12. Take a Kangaroo & Wombat Watching Tour
Rated 5 stars by over 400 happy adventurers, this is hands down one of the best winter activities around Sydney. On this guided day tour, you’ll tick off the classic Aussie experience: spotting wild kangaroos and wombats in their natural habitat. You’ll explore two national parks, chase waterfalls, and as night falls, enjoy some seriously dreamy stargazing.
A live English-speaking guide is with you the entire time, sharing stories and fun facts as you go.
Check the pickup details and book here
13. Check out the Theme at World’s Instagrammable Cafe
The Grounds of Alexandria is often called the world’s most Instagrammable café, and honestly, we couldn’t agree more. From seasonal themes to flower-drenched corners and fairy-lit laneways, this place goes all out.
It’s open 7 days a week, with weekend hours from 7:30 am to 4:40 pm. Come with an empty stomach and dive into their signature Beanstalker coffee, fresh sandwiches, loaded wraps, salad bowls, and iced drinks that somehow taste even better when you’re surrounded by blooms.
Check details and book a reservation here
14. Cruise the Hawkesbury on the Riverboat Postman
Step aboard a real working mail boat and cruise along the serene Hawkesbury River while mail gets delivered to remote river communities. This isn’t just a ride, it’s a slice of Aussie history wrapped in sunshine, calm waters, and commentary from a skipper who knows the river like the back of their hand. Morning tea and a hearty lunch are included, so all you need to do is show up, relax, and take in the views.
Check prices and availability here
15. Search for Glow Worms in the Blue Mountains
Magic doesn’t just live in fairytales, it glows in caves. Head to the Blue Mountains for a glow worm tour and watch as thousands of tiny lights flicker to life in pitch darkness. It’s eerie and enchanting in the best way, especially in winter when the chill adds to the atmosphere. We recommend booking this guided night tour with a hotel pick-up, After getting picked up from your accommodation in Sydney, you’ll head out to the Blue Mountains for a night bushwalk with a guide. You’ll wear headlamps and walk through the forest to a cave that has a small waterfall. Inside, you’ll see glow worms glowing on the cave walls!
Check prices and book the tour here
16. Be in Awe of the Art at MCA
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) is a free gem right in Circular Quay, with ever-changing exhibitions that are equal parts weird, bold, and beautiful. Wander through installations, video art, or sculptures that make you pause, question, and sometimes even laugh. The rooftop café has stunning views of the Harbour Bridge, perfect for a mid-museum coffee break.
17. Do the Best Short Hike in Sydney in Winter
The Barrenjoey Lighthouse is one of our favorite short hikes with gorgeous sunset views in Sydney! Sitting 91 metres above sea level, it’s also popularly known as the Palm Beach Lighthouse Walk. The hike takes about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip (not counting the time you’ll spend soaking up the views at the top!). From the summit, you’re rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the Northern Beaches and the Pacific Ocean.
This hike is one of the best winter activities in Sydney as you’ll spot humpback whales making their way north from the icy waters to warmer breeding grounds! Read our full guide to the Palm Beach lighthouse walk.
18. Make it a Canberra Weekend
Sometimes Sydney needs a little break from you. Canberra in winter is full of surprises: cosy wine bars, galleries like the National Gallery of Australia, and that small-town pace that makes a weekend feel longer. You can drive or catch a bus, and once you’re there, everything’s close. If you’re into winter gardens, Parliament House tours, or just want to try a seriously good hot chocolate, Canberra’s calling.
19. Make the Most of Kirribilli Market
Held twice a month, Kirribilli Market is not your average stall situation. It’s set under the Harbour Bridge with unbeatable views, and the vibe is relaxed, artsy, and full of good finds. Think vintage clothes, handmade jewellery, ceramics, fresh bakes, and secondhand gems. The food trucks alone are reason enough to go. Come hungry, come curious.
Check more details about the market here
20. Go Cave Hunting at Wombeyan Caves
Tucked into the Southern Highlands, about 3.5 hours from Sydney, Wombeyan Caves is home to a network of marble caves you can explore with or without a guide. Fig Tree Cave is self-guided and easy to follow, while Wollondilly Cave, the largest and most popular, requires a guided tour and shows off huge chambers filled with stunning limestone and marble formations. Other guided caves like Kooringa offer more underground wonders. There’s also the Victoria Arch walking track that leads to a scenic lookout and natural rock bridge.
Above ground, the area is peaceful and full of wildlife like kangaroos and native birds. You can stay overnight in cozy cabins or camp at the campground, which has hot showers and a laid-back vibe. Just be sure to check road conditions before you go, especially if you’re coming via Wombeyan Caves Road, it can get rough in the rainy season.
21. Sleep in a Bubble Tent Under the Stars
Sleep under the stars in a transparent bubble tent overlooking the breathtaking Capertee Valley—just 2.5 hours from Sydney. Bubbletent Australia offers a unique off-grid glamping experience, perfect for stargazing and reconnecting with nature.
Perched above the world’s second-largest canyon, these eco-friendly tents provide panoramic views and luxurious amenities. Each tent features a comfortable queen-size bed, an outdoor wood-fired bathtub, and a private deck to soak in the serenity!
Check prices and availability here
22. Surf Bondi’s Winter Swells Like a Local
Yes, the water’s cold, but it’s also clear, less crowded, and full of locals chasing the cleanest waves of the year. Rent a wetsuit and board at Bondi, warm up with a quick beach jog, then paddle out. Even if you’re a beginner, surf schools still run lessons through winter. Afterwards, hit up a nearby café for something toasty and tell your mates you’ve officially surfed Bondi in winter.
23. Hunt for Street Art in Newtown
Newtown’s walls are basically an outdoor gallery. Spend an afternoon wandering its backstreets and alleyways, camera or coffee in hand, and keep an eye out for giant murals, political stencils, and colourful tags that change with the seasons. Start around Enmore Road and just let yourself roam around, it’s the kind of area where the unplanned bits end up being your favourite.
24. Feast on Hot Ramen in the Best of the City
Winter = ramen cravings, and Sydney delivers. From slurpy bowls at Gumshara in Haymarket to the smoky richness of Gogyo in Surry Hills, the city is full of places that nail the broth-to-noodle-to-egg ratio. Go solo and savour the silence, or round up a few mates and do a ramen crawl. Add a side of karaage or gyoza while you’re at it, no regrets.
25. Warm Up by a Fireplace at a Historic Pub
Sydney’s full of character-filled pubs with fireplaces that crackle through winter. Think sandstone walls, mulled wine, and that familiar pub hum. The Lord Nelson in The Rocks and the Hero of Waterloo are both iconic, with history you can feel in the walls. Come for a Sunday roast or just a pint by the fire, either way, you’ll leave warmer than you came.
26. Walk Around the Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Garden in winter is quieter, crisp, and a little underrated. You’ve still got the harbour views, the shady fig trees, and the ducks doing their thing. It’s a perfect slow morning activity, take a thermos, follow the paths toward Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, and let the city melt away for a bit. There’s also a café near the water for a warm cuppa once you’ve done your lap.
27. Take a Day Trip to Wollondilly
A quiet pocket of NSW, just far enough to feel like a true escape from the city’s rush. Wollondilly invites you to slow down and soak up rolling countryside, charming small towns, and plenty of fresh air.
Kick off your morning with a private tour at the Australian Wildlife Sanctuary, where you’ll meet native animals up close in a peaceful bush setting. After that, head to Picton Social for a great coffee and something delicious, the kind of café where you’ll want to linger just a little longer.
In the afternoon, swing by the NSW Rail Museum to check out their incredible collection of vintage trains, including a 120-year-old steam locomotive still proudly on display. Wrap up the day at the Wollondilly Lookout in Bullio!
28. Watch a Comedy Show
If you’re looking for a standout way to enjoy winter activities in Sydney, a night at a comedy show is the perfect remedy for the chill. Sydney’s comedy scene is buzzing this season, offering everything from intimate stand-up gigs to larger-than-life performances. Top Comedy Shows to Catch This Winter in Sydney:
- Sydney Comedy Festival 2025 (April 21 – May 18)- Over 350 shows featuring local and international comedians, including the Comedy Festival Gala and the Comedy Crawl.
- Daniel Sloss, One Night Stand at Sydney Opera House (April 24)- Sharp, unfiltered humor from the acclaimed Scottish comedian.
- Comedy Crawl in YCK Precinct (May 6 & 10)- A unique night hopping between bars with surprise sets from various comedians.
- Reuben Kaye at Enmore Theatre (April 24)- Edgy, biting humor and killer one-liners from this rising star.
- Daniel Muggleton at The Comedy Store (July 18)- A night filled with witty commentary and sharp observations.
29. Get Cozy at Sydney’s Coziest Cafes
There are a lot of good cafes in Sydney, places like Room Ten in Potts Point or Blackwood in Newtown are perfect when the weather gets cold. Pull up a seat, order something warm, and give yourself permission to linger. Some of my top recommendations are listed below:
- Single O Surry Hills
- Skittle Lane
- Planar Restaurant
- Grounds of Alexandria!
30. Visit Iconic Shooting Spots Around Sydney
One of the more unexpected winter activities in Sydney? Visiting iconic film and TV locations scattered across the city. From The Matrix’s bullet-time scenes in Martin Place to Mission: Impossible 2’s action sequences at Bare Island, Sydney has quietly starred in some of the world’s biggest blockbusters.
You can stroll through Centennial Park, where Gatsby’s extravagant parties came to life! It’s a fun way to explore the city from a fresh perspective, and a solid excuse to rewatch a few classics afterward.
Check the details of the film locations here
31. Go on a Winter Coffee Crawl
One of the coziest winter activities in Sydney? A coffee crawl, hands down. Start your morning with something bold at Single O in Surry Hills, their rotating single-origin menu is always on point. Then head over to Metro Coffee in the city for a smooth espresso and a quick people-watch. And don’t miss Brew’in inside Planar Restaurant, tucked near Darling Harbour, where the coffee hits just right with waterfront views. It’s a fun little way to explore different neighbourhoods, warm up between stops, and maybe even find your new go-to cup.
32. Glide Around an Ice Rink in the Heart of Sydney
Sydney sets up pop-up ice rinks during winter, usually around July as part of the school holidays and seasonal events. In recent years, Darling Harbour’s Tumbalong Park has hosted an outdoor rink with lights, music, and winter food stalls. It’s a fun way to experience the chill without leaving the city.
Keep an eye out for winter festivals at locations like ICC Forecourt or Barangaroo, which occasionally feature ice skating as part of their programs. Skates are available to rent, and booking a timed session online is usually the easiest way to lock in a spot.
33. Join a Ghost Tour in the Rocks
Sydney’s oldest neighbourhood turns eerie after dark, and a ghost tour in The Rocks is one of the most unique winter activities in the city. Led by local guides, these walking tours explore narrow laneways, historic pubs, and hidden courtyards while sharing real stories of convicts, crimes, and alleged hauntings.
Winter is the perfect time to go as the cooler nights and quiet streets really add to the atmosphere. Most tours run for about 90 minutes, and bring a jacket… and maybe don’t go alone!
34. Scream Your Way Through Luna Park
The Harbour views are stunning, but the Wild Mouse coaster and Hair Raiser drop tower are what’ll actually take your breath away. Open year-round, Luna Park’s retro vibes, flashing lights, and winter air make for the perfect mix of thrill and nostalgia.
35. Hop Aboard a Ferry to Manly
You could take a car or a bus, but the ferry to Manly is half the experience. It leaves from Circular Quay and gives you some of the best views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge on the way out. Once you arrive, grab fish and chips, stroll along the beach, or follow the walking track to Shelly Beach. The ferry ride home at sunset? That is the cherry on top.
36. Spend a Weekend away from Sydney
Winter is the perfect time to slow down somewhere quiet. Head to the Southern Highlands, Mudgee, or even Orange if you don’t mind a longer drive. Go wine tasting, curl up with a book near a fireplace, or just spend your morning walking around small towns with a hot coffee in hand. It is not about ticking off activities, it is about doing less and feeling good while doing it.
37. Attend a Candlelight Concert
If you’re looking for a cosy indoor winter activity, a Candlelight Concert is a great pick. Held at intimate venues like The Sydney Masonic Centre, The Eveleigh, or even heritage churches, these concerts feature live classical or modern music, all performed under the warm glow of hundreds of candles.
Sydney’s candlelight concerts pop up in beautiful spaces around the city, with live musicians playing everything from classical to Coldplay.
Check prices and availability here
38. Explore Bookstores Hidden Around Sydney
Sydney’s book scene is full of gems, from heritage shopfronts to sleek library spaces. Gleebooks in Glebe is a long-standing favourite for good reason, offering everything from new releases to thoughtful staff picks. Over in the city, Kinokuniya has shelves packed with international titles, art books, and niche finds you won’t see elsewhere.
For something quieter, head to the Green Square Library. Its underground design is reason enough to visit, but the Gallery Room often hosts small exhibitions, talks, and creative displays alongside the reading spaces. It’s a refreshing mix of books and culture, ideal for a slow winter afternoon.
39. Check out a Football Match
Sydney’s winter sports calendar is packed with football action — whether you’re into A-League soccer, NRL rugby league, or Super Rugby. Catching a live match is a great way to experience local passion and the stadium atmosphere.
Popular venues include Allianz Stadium in Moore Park and Leichhardt Oval in the Inner West. Games usually run on weekends and evenings during winter months, so it’s easy to fit a match into your itinerary. Grab some snacks, wear your team’s colours, and enjoy the roar of the crowd.
40. See the Views from Sydney Tower Eye
Winter activities in Sydney don’t have to mean staying indoors, this one takes you 250 metres above it all. The Sydney Tower Eye offers more than just stunning views. The main highlight is the Observation Deck, a fully enclosed space with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, giving you uninterrupted 360-degree views of the city, harbour, beaches, and, on clear days, the Blue Mountains.
Inside, you’ll find interactive touchscreens that help you identify key landmarks and learn about Sydney’s geography and history. There are also free viewing binoculars to zoom in on distant sights.
Included with your ticket is the 4D Cinema Experience, a short film that combines 3D visuals, motion seats, and sensory effects like wind and scents to offer a dynamic introduction to Sydney’s landmarks and culture.
For a more adventurous experience, the Skywalk lets you step outside onto an open-air glass-floored platform around the tower’s exterior. This requires a separate ticket and is weather-dependent, but it’s a thrilling way to take in the city from a unique vantage point.
You’ll also find a small cafe where you can grab a coffee or snack, and a gift shop offering Sydney-themed souvenirs and gifts to remember your visit.
Check prices and book your ticket here
FAQs: Winter Activities in Sydney
I’ve tried answering some of the most frequently asked questions about winter in Sydney below!
Is Sydney Worth Visiting in Winter?
Absolutely! Sydney is a year-round destination that caters to both summer and winter enthusiasts. Winter in Sydney brings a unique charm, with major events like Vivid Sydney, cultural festivals, and even wintertime fun at places like Bondi Beach. The cooler season adds a special thrill to exploring the city’s vibrant outdoor life and scenic spots.
What Month is Coldest in Sydney?
July is Sydney’s coldest month, with average daytime highs around 17°C (63°F) and nighttime lows near 8°C (46°F). In July 2025, temperatures are expected to follow this pattern, with average highs of 17.1°C and lows of 7.7°C. Rainfall is moderate, averaging about 77 mm over 8 days, and the city enjoys approximately 7 hours of sunshine daily.
Does Sydney Get Snow?
Snow is extremely rare in Sydney. The city has a temperate coastal climate, which means winters are mild and don’t drop low enough for snowfall. While the surrounding Blue Mountains (about 2 hours from Sydney) can see occasional snow in winter, Sydney itself hasn’t recorded measurable snowfall since 1836!
So if you’re hoping for snow, you’ll need to head inland or to higher elevations, like Thredbo or Perisher, Australia’s popular snow resorts in the Snowy Mountains.
The Wrap-Up: Winter Activities in Sydney
And that’s a wrap on our list of the 40 best winter activities in Sydney, a mix of our personal favorites and timeless classics! We hope it helps you make the most of the cooler months. Got a question or want to share your own winter go-to? Slide into our DMs on Instagram, we’d love to hear from you!
