From the opening of Western Sydney International Airport to the arrival of Powerhouse Parramatta, 2026 positions New South Wales as Australia’s most future-focused destination.
Major Openings
Powerhouse Parramatta (Opening late 2026)
Powerhouse Parramatta will anchor Western Sydney as a global arts and culture destination. Purpose-built on the Parramatta River, the museum will feature expansive exhibition spaces, international touring shows and a strong focus on science, technology, design and innovation.
Western Sydney International Airport
Opening in 2026, WSIA marks a shift in how visitors arrive, move through and experience NSW. Operating 24 hours a day, the airport will unlock new international routes, faster access to Western Sydney and regional NSW, and significant growth across accommodation, dining and visitor experience in surrounding precincts.
Experiences
Sydney Fish Market
The newly redeveloped Sydney Fish Market transforms the iconic attraction into a modern food precinct with seafood stalls, restaurants and harbourfront dining.
Sydney Festival
Each summer, Sydney Festival fills parks, theatres and public spaces with music, theatre, dance and large-scale outdoor performances. Events take place across Sydney and Western Sydney, offering a lively way to experience the city during the Australian summer.
AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026
Sydney hosts key matches of Asia’s premier women’s football tournament in March, including the final on 21 March. Fans from the UK and Ireland can catch the Matildas and top Asian teams live at venues like Stadium Australia.
Hawkesbury River Mouth Walk
The Hawkesbury River Mouth Walk is a three-night guided coastal walk in the Bouddi Peninsula just 90 minutes north of Sydney. Designed for moderate fitness levels, it balances gentle adventure with indulgence.
Disney’s The Lion King Musical Returns
One of the world’s most beloved stage musicals is heading back to Sydney in 2026. Disney’s The Lion King will return to the Capitol Theatre in April, bringing the timeless tale of Simba to life with spectacular puppetry, unforgettable music and breathtaking visual artistry.
Vivid Sydney
As nights grow cooler, Vivid Sydney transforms the city with light installations, illuminated landmarks, live music and thought-provoking talks. Walking along the harbour after dark, with the Opera House and city skyline glowing, is a highlight for visitors in the winter months.
Sculpture by the Sea
Set along the famous Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk, Sculpture by the Sea combines contemporary art with ocean views and coastal scenery. It’s free to attend and easy to enjoy at your own pace, making it a favourite for walkers, photographers and beach lovers.
Sydney Zoo
Located at Darling Harbour, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo offers close-up encounters with kangaroos, koalas and other native animals. A convenient way for visitors to experience Australian wildlife in the heart of the city.
Dining
Rick Stein at Coogee Beach
Rick Stein at Coogee Beach brings his signature seafood-led menu to Sydney’s eastern beaches, overlooking Coogee Bay. Expect classic fish dishes, coastal flavours and relaxed seaside dining just steps from the sand. A natural stop after the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk.
Three Blue Ducks, Buradoo
Opening early 2026 on a working farm in the Southern Highlands, this new-generation Three Blue Ducks venue brings farm-to-plate dining to life with a seasonal restaurant, bakery and produce store.
Terrigal Pavilion (Central Coast)
A major new oceanfront dining and social destination just over an hour north of Sydney, Terrigal Pavilion combines casual coastal vibes with spectacular water views, relaxed food and drinks.
ACCOMODATION
InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach
Set on the beachfront at Coogee, InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach brings a fresh wave of coastal luxury to Sydney’s eastern shoreline, just 20 minutes from the city. Shutters Restaurant & Bar will serve modern Australian cuisine with Mediterranean influences, while a leisure deck opening in March 2026 will feature an ocean-facing infinity pool, poolside bar, spa and Club InterContinental.
Crowne Plaza Shell Cove Marina
Opening on the South Coast, this Crowne Plaza sits beside Shell Cove Marina with views across the harbour and Pacific Ocean. It offers modern rooms, a seafood-focused restaurant and direct access to beaches and coastal trails.
QT Parramatta
QT’s first Western Sydney hotel brings bold design, rooftop dining and boutique luxury to Parramatta’s city centre. A stylish base for visiting Powerhouse Parramatta, riverside dining and exploring Western Sydney.
Waldorf Astoria Sydney
Australia’s first Waldorf Astoria opens in Sydney’s Circular Quay with panoramic views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The 220-room luxury hotel will feature signature restaurants, a rooftop bar, spa, indoor pool and grand event spaces. Designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates, its sandstone and glass exterior reflects a modern Australian aesthetic. Set to become one of Sydney’s most prestigious new addresses for 2026.
