Things to do in Sydney

A month-on-month guide to the best time to visit Sydney

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Sydney is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, world class restaurants and unforgettable experiences. The city takes pride in its diversity and celebrates its multicultural population through several global events and festivities. It also houses the iconic Sydney Opera House that can be visited any time of year - thanks to the city's amazing weather conditions. Not to forget the breathtaking view from the Blue mountains and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, making it the most travelled destination in Australia till date. Find out everything you need to know about the best time to visit Sydney before arriving in the city.

Best time to visit Sydney - Know Before You Plan Your Trip


The best time to visit Sydney is from September to November and February to May when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowd is not at its peak. However, June to August is considered to be the cheapest time to visit Sydney due to the city's winter season. Compared to other cities, Sydney does not have a harsh weather condition, so, if you can handle a temperature drop between 10°C to 13°C, you can definitely do a budget trip to the city and make the most of your experience.

Pleasant time to visit Sydney - September to November and February to May
Cheapest time to visit Sydney - June to August

Best Time To Visit Sydney For Different Kinds Of Travelers

Best Time for Staying Outdoors in Sydney: December - February
Best Time for Sightseeing & Museum Hopping: October, November, March, and April
Best Time for Honeymooners: Late spring (October and November) and early autumn (March and April)
Best Time for Budget Travelers: June - August
Best Time for Shopaholics: December - March

Sydney Through The Year


  • High Season in Sydney runs for a short period nonetheless, it is considered to be the bustling time of the year. December to February is the city’s peak season where people from all over the world flood in to take advantage of the warm weather conditions. The hotel and flight charges will be higher during this time of the year however, you can definitely save a lot of money by booking in advance. Australia Day, Ultra Australia and Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival are few of the most popular events celebrated during these months.
  • Low Season in Sydney falls in winter. Though it’s not a harsh climate, when compared to other countries, June to August in Sydney constitutes the city’s winter season making it the least visited time of year. It is the best time to visit Sydney for all budget-friendly travellers as airfares are cheap, and everything else will have a good discount running. Be it exploring popular activities such as SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower and even whale-watching - there is something for everyone.
  • Shoulder Season in Sydney falls between September to November in spring and from March to May when Australia’s winter season is around the corner. Here you’ll see the tourist count drop a little wherein you’ll have the city slightly more to yourself right before the peak season begins. Now is the time to explore Sydney’s top landmarks. From the Darling Harbour and the Blue Mountains to Sydney Opera House and even the beautiful Bondi beach - you can see them all at your own pace.

Best Season To Visit Sydney


Sydney is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. There are no harsh weather conditions thanks to its tropically balanced climate maintained all year around in the city. However, if you want to know before you go, this is how the seasons in Sydney look.

spring in Paris
Sydney in Spring

Spring is one of the best times to visit Sydney. The temperature is mild and comfortable giving you just the right amount of sunshine that you need to explore the bustling city. Look around to find beautiful lush green gardens and Jacaranda trees blooming on almost every single street. Alternatively, you can enjoy walking over the clear white beaches whilst exploring the local street markets. Keep your eyes open as the city also offers an exciting array of activities and events during this season that is definitely worth checking out.

summer in barcelona
Sydney in Summer

Summers in Sydney can change rapidly from warm to hot so prepare yourself well in advance by carrying lots of sunscreen, hats and sunglasses before you kickstart your vacation. Sydney is known for hosting a wide range of outdoor activities during this period including swimming, surfing, concerts and festivals which is a must-do if you’re travelling with your family and friends. Christmas also comes towards the beginning of summer holidays, making it best weather to visit Sydney, especially for tourists arriving from harsh weather conditions.

autumn in barcelona
Sydney in Autumn

Autumn in Sydney is a good time to take walking tours and day trips from the city to its outskirts. Discover the city’s top highlights from the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanic Gardens to Hyde Park, Chinatown and even the Blue Mountains and Hunter Valley Gardens to unfold the true beauty of Aussie land during this season. It is the best time to visit Sydney if you wish to experience a fine balance between hot and cold weather, making Sydney a cozy and worry-free location to be in for your next vacation.

winter in barcelona
Sydney in Winter

Unlike other destinations, Sydney winters are quite pleasant and not too harsh. It is a magical time in the city, where you can find plenty of activities to be a part of like whale-watching, hiking and even visiting the aquariums. Don't miss out on Vivid Sydney - a spectacular annual festival for light and music that has proved to give a memorable visual experience for all.

Weather In Sydney Year Round


The weather in Sydney year round has been charted on a graph below. The Highs are depicted in red and the Lows in blue.

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A Month-By-Month Guide To Visiting Sydney


Follow our detailed guide to pick a month for your Sydney exploits.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Sydney In January

Average Temperature: 23°C to 27 °C

best time to visit sydney


Sydney in January predominantly has a warm climate with about 9 hours of sunshine in a day. With an average temperature between 23°C to 27 °C, January is the perfect time to visit if you’re ready to hit the beach or dive into an array of watersport activities from swimming to surfing and even kayaking. For all extreme thrillseekers, the city also offers a wide range of fun outdoor experiences such as skydiving and Harbour bridge climbing. Don’t forget to stop at the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Taronga Zoo if you’re visiting with your little ones.



Recommended Experiences for Sydney in January

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Sydney In February

Average Temperature: 23°C to 26 °C

best time to visit sydney


February is Sydney’s summer month which means you’ll be facing plenty of hot days accompanied with lots of sunshine and humidity. It is considered to be one the busiest months of the year where visitors make the most of their experience by enjoying the breathtaking panoramic view of the stunning city as they cruise over the Sydney Harbour. February is also the preferred month to go for day trips to see the beautiful outskirts or even to visit the iconic Blue Mountains as you can get away from the scorching sun to seek comfort in the cool wind and its natural waterfalls. Ensure to put on lots of sunscreens and carry enough water to stay hydrated all day long.



Must-Visit Experiences for Sydney in February

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Sydney In March

Average Temperature : 22°C to 25°C

best time to visit sydney


Sydney in March brings a moderate temperature giving the right kind of mild heat and coolness for a perfect climate. Though the chances of rain are higher this month, the weather definitely makes up for it by providing an average of 8 hours of sunshine every day. Discover Sydney at your own pace by going on a classic Hop on Hop off experience. You can also make your way to the city’s iconic Bondi Beach to spend a pleasant day with your family. Don’t forget to make a stop at the Farmers Market situated right next to the beach to immerse in a wide range of popular homegrown organic products.



Visit the Best Sydney Attractions in March

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Sydney In April

Average Temperature : 15°C to 23°C

best time to visit sydney


April in Sydney is the beginning of a pleasant fall season. You can expect the temperature to range anywhere from 15°C to 23°C with an average of 19°C. With low humidity and about eight hours of sunshine, you can now explore the beautiful city comfortably at your own speed. Whether it be skydiving, going on a Sydney Bridge climb or even enjoying a delicious snack, there’s something for everyone. You would not want to miss out La Traviata- the world’s most popular opera performed in the month of April on a floating stage of Sydney Harbour where you can also witness the firework display across the city’s night sky.



Experience the Most Stunning Skydive Experience in the World

Sydney In May

Average Temperature : 16°C to 20°C

best time to visit sydney


Sydney weather in May changes quite a bit, so always be prepared for everything between sunny days, rainy evenings and cold nights. With fewer tourists arriving this month, you can now cover the city landmarks and their local festivals without feeling rushed. The city takes pride in hosting some of the most vibrant events in May, including the Sydney Comedy Festival, Sydney Writers’ Festival and lots more which is definitely worth visiting!



Visit the Best Sydney Attractions in May

Sydney In June

Average Temperature : 14°C to 18 °C

best time to visit sydney


June in Sydney officially marks the beginning of winter in the city. You can expect cool temperature and the chances of rain are significantly higher when compared to the earlier months. Don’t worry, it will not be a freezing weather condition, thanks to the city’s well balanced tropical climate maintained all year round. With close to seven hours of sunshine per day, travelling to Sydney in June is ideal if you wish to see the best of the city. From Sydney Bridge climb and day trips to even surfing at the beach, the city offers something for everyone.



Check Out These Day Tour Experiences of Sydney in June

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Sydney In July

Average Temperature : 13°C to 17 °C

best time to visit sydney


By the time it's July in Sydney, winter is officially in full swing at this point making it the coldest month of the year. However, this will not comprise from having clear blue skies and abundant sunshine making it easier to step out and engage in lots of outdoor activities. Reserve some time to engage in some popular experiences including hiking in the Blue Mountains and whale watching. You can also choose to visit the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium or the Australian Museum if you wish to soak up some history while being indoors with your loved ones.



Visit the Best Sydney Attractions in July

Sydney In August

Average Temperature : 14°C to 18°C

best time to visit sydney


You must visit Sydney in August as it is the final month of the winter season right before the city makes the transition to a higher temperature. Now would be a perfect time to escape the crowd. But first make sure you wrap up warm before you step out, as it is seen as one of the windiest times of the year. Grab your family and head down to Bondi Market to see the local street shops whilst walking across the beachfront. Alternatively, you can join for a cruise or watch a show at the iconic Sydney Opera House to make the most of your experience in Sydney during August.



Book Tickets for Sydney Cruise in August

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Sydney In September

Average Temperature : 16°C to 20°C

best time to visit sydney


September in Sydney is all about springtime! This is when the city’s wide collection of botanical gardens, parks and natural pathways come out to light as the weather transitions from cool to warm. With lower humidity levels, Sydney in September gears up to host an array of festivals, concerts and other major adrenaline spiking activities such as skydiving, swimming and surfing making all adventure junkies crave for more. Royal Botanical Garden and Chinese Garden of Friendship are also among the top must-visit places to see the beautiful blooming flowers during this time of the year.



Recommended Experiences for Sydney in September

Sydney In October

Average Temperature : 18°C to 22°C

best time to visit sydney


Spring will be at its peak by the time October rolls into Sydney. The weather will be considerably warm and you can witness the city’s lush green trees and flowers come to life. Make your way to see the iconic landmarks through the popular Hop on Hop off bus experience as you bask in the sun or even head down to Hyde Park or Royal National Park if you wish to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city for a calm and relaxed time with your family and friends.



Try These Exciting Tours in Sydney in October

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Sydney In November

Average Temperature : 20°C to 24°C

best time to visit sydney


November in Sydney is the time when you can expect a lot of tourists to flock into the city. Not to forget the amazing flight deals and discounts that are available now, making it the ideal month to visit the city and cover the must-see locations in the best way possible. Cruise through the Sydney Harbour to enjoy a lavish sightseeing experience following which, make your way to the Sydney Tower to witness the stunning panoramic view of the city at 820 feet above the ground. The city weather conditions are also suitable for outdoor activities including cycling, swimming, hiking and even picnics if you wish to simply have a stress-free holiday.



Check Out These Exciting Experiences of Sydney in November

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Sydney In December

Average Temperature : 22°C to 26°C

best time to visit sydney


Unlike other countries, Sydney has glorious weather during December, which is why it’s a favourite destination for tourists from colder parts of the world to visit, helping them escape the winter gloom. Spend your holiday lounging on the great white beaches during the day and later head down in the evening to witness the sparkling Christmas lights and ice skate all night. While it is without a doubt one of the busiest times of the year, nothing is impossible if you plan your itinerary in advance. Keep your eyes open as there are so many events and festivities scheduled at this time of the year especially during New Year’s eve that you do not want to miss out on.



Visit the Best Sydney Attractions in December

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Sydney 5-day Itinerary


Whether you're travelling to Sydney in June or December, here's a handy 5 day itinerary to experience the best of the city.

FAQs


What is the best time of year to visit Sydney?

The best time of year to visit Sydney is during the summer months of December to February. The weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to enjoy all that the city has to offer, from its beaches to its many outdoor activities.

What are the peak tourist seasons in Sydney?

The peak tourist seasons in Sydney are during the summer months (December to February) and during Easter. These times are when the weather is at its best, but accommodation and flight prices will be higher.

What are the shoulder seasons in Sydney?

The shoulder seasons in Sydney are during the autumn and spring months (March to May and September to November). These months offer mild weather conditions and are ideal for outdoor activities. However, accommodation and flight prices will be lower than during the peak season.

What is the weather like in Sydney?

Sydney has a temperate climate, with average temperatures ranging from 18-25 degrees Celsius. The summer months (December to February) are the warmest, while the winter months (June to August) can be cool to cold, with occasional rain.

What should I pack for a trip to Sydney?

Pack clothes that can be layered, as the weather can be changeable. A light jacket or sweater is also recommended, as well as comfortable shoes for walking. If you plan on spending time at the beach, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit!