If you’ve accrued extra paid time off from work, Sydney, Australia and Auckland, New Zealand are great places to travel for an extended vacation. These neighboring island nations can provide a lot for the eager tourist. Travel on your own, with a partner, or with family, and experience the scenery, arts and culture, and landscapes of these bustling metropolises. Prepare for an extended stay in the lands down under.
Starting this vacation of a lifetime in Sydney makes perfect sense, as it’s home to the Sydney Opera House. A photograph or television show depicting this architecture cannot compare to viewing it in person, let alone attending a live performance.
Taking a walk along the Sydney Harbour Bridge is something else you can do. The climb up to the top of the bridge, while a tourist favorite, is not for the faint of heart, but the spectacular city and harbor views are a fulfilling reward. If being in the water is more important to you than just viewing it, Bondi Beach is where the surfing and casual coastal strolls are.
For a cultural experience, head down to The Rocks, a historical quarter full of markets and pubs. The Art Gallery of New South Wales is impressive with its collections and evolving exhibitions. As your Sydney days come to a close, be not sad! It’s off to Auckland now!
The parklands at Auckland Domain are vast and great for spending hours exploring. On Waiheke Island, you’re welcomed into New Zealand’s wine country. Waiheke is famous for its vineyards and beautiful beaches, perfect for spending a day or a week—an extended vacation lets you decide in the moment. A half to full-day excursion up Mount Eden is a hike offering what could be the world’s best views—from inside a volcanic crater!
Don’t forget to add some arts and culture to the Auckland leg of your trip with a stop at the Auckland Art Gallery, where national and international art is on exhibit. If you feel like dining and dancing by the water, there’s no better location than Viaduct Harbour—although for a truly mesmerizing setting after dark, try the Sky Tower, where you can have dinner while gazing out at the cityscape aglow.
Plan your itinerary for an extended stay in the lands down under. Sydney and Auckland are unique places full of activities to be enjoyed. You’ll be glad you decided on an extended break to see these two stunning cities, and you’ll return full of memorable moments you won’t ever forget.
Here’s Why You’re About to Plan a Road Trip Through the American Southwest