AWE Travels

New Year is over, but that is always a reason to plan the next one. If you plan it in another city, it can be overwhelming where to go and get tickets. Sydney in Australia is definitely a place to plan your trip in advance. Last year 2022/23, I was passing by during my solo trip.

Here are some impressions and tips to plan.

1.Be prepared for crowds of people & obstructed views

Around NYE the city is filled with tourists wherever you look. Cruises stop there and many international travelers are coming. Due to the preparation for NYE there are fences etc. which can obstruct the views while sightseeing.

2.Get tickets for the best vantage point

Everyone is there to watch the firework at the bridge. To get to the best vantage point, the city sells tickets to parks all around the harbour. It is necessary to buy it few weeks in advance, otherwise it is sold out. If you missed the ticket sell, it is possible to queue on NYE at the Opera House to get a place directly at the Opera House. You have to be there early in the morning around 5/6 am to be able to get inside, since there are many people trying their luck.

3.Dress up for every weather

Since you have to line up for the parks in the afternoon, to get a good seating place, be prepared for every weather. When I was there, it was so warm that I didn’t bring any jacket. That was a mistake. It got so cold when the sun was down. The waiting time in the park was 8 hours until midnight.

4.Check your accommodation location

After the firework, all people headed home or to a party. The streets were partly only one-way in the centre. There was no possibility to cross the street because of the fences. If you have an accommodation in the city centre, check the walking ways after the firework. If you take the wrong street, you could end up walking all around the blocks to get to your accommodation.

Is it worth it?

For me personally, it was an interesting experience to be in Sydney at New Years Eve. All the crowds in the city, getting to the vantage point, waiting for the firework and the amazing firework itself. It was worth it for a one time experience, but I probably wouldn’t do it again. If I happen to be there again, I would research a more less crowded, comfortable and warm location.