Sydney might be renowned for endless summers by the beach, but winter allows you to see this picturesque city in a whole new light.
With crisp, clear days, the harbour takes on a true shimmer, the beaches are less crowded, and the food and fashion both transform to offer a comforting, yet cultured winter feel.
If that’s not enough to see you embrace the chill of winter in this vibrant city, here are 10 further reasons to love Sydney in winter.
The Harbour
Sydney Harbour is spectacular at any time of year, but in winter it glitters with allure under a mellowed sun. Winter is also the season when whales are welcomed to the city and there are a host of whale watching tours available from Darling Harbour that allow you to witness the wonder of whales in their natural surrounds.
Indoor activities
As the temperature cools, indoor activities heat up throughout the city. From the aquarium to the maritime museum or theatre, there’s no shortage of indoor events to keep tourists and locals entertained.
Sensational seafood
Winter serves up simply sensational Sydney seafood. In fact, this is the season when seafood is at its most abundant and the greatest range is in supply. From prawns to salmon and mussels, it’s all available and incredibly fresh. As seafood is one of our specialties, you can see our seafood menu to enjoy a taste of what’s on offer.
Long lunches
Winter is officially the season of the long lunch in Sydney as office workers, residents and tourists make the most of the warming midday sun to enjoy an outdoor meal. At Georges that lunch is set against the beautiful backdrop of the harbor and features hearty fare, mezze and seafood, all designed as the perfect accompaniment to a chilled Sydney day.
Rugging up
Winter offers the welcome opportunity to rug up in a city usually renowned for its summer style. Coats are in fashion, scarves in vogue and the style of Sydney evolves to embrace a more European and chic feel.
Beautiful beaches
The waters might only be warm enough for the exceptionally brace to swim, but the beauty of the beaches is perhaps even more striking on a crisp winter’s day. This is the time of year when the ocean is at its most powerful, the colour is at its most vibrant and the crowds are few and far between.
Welcoming walks
The average daily maximum of Sydney during winter is around 18 or 19 degrees, which is the perfect temperature to explore the city or its many national parks on foot. Enjoy a stroll from the Rocks to Darling Harbour and take in Barangaroo, or embrace nature and witness the spectacular beauty of South Head.
Less crowded
Sydney is just that little bit less crowded throughout winter, with many tourists choosing summer to visit this iconic city. That makes the cooler months the perfect time to enjoy unrestricted access to all the city’s beauty and sights.
Shimmering nights
The sunset falls around 5pm in winter, allowing an earlier evening glimpse into the majestic beauty of the city at night. Once the lights come on, this is a city transformed. The Harbour Bridge and Opera House are among the iconic Sydney landmarks that take on a whole new beauty in the evening. The Opera House now also features a lighting display on its sails each evening from sunset until 7pm.
Hearty meals
The cooler days and the chilled nights bring out the finest in winter food and fare. This is the time of year to enjoy a hearty meal, great coffee and fine wine. Think lamb, sirloin or pork to warm the heart and soul of a chilled winter’s eve. You can see our menu here for a little winter dining inspiration.
About George’s
Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries. Come share the Greek hospitality for which we are renowned as we serve up harbourside dining in simply stunning surrounds.
You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.