A Sydney itinerary bursting with Culture

Indulge in a gastronomy experience at the Garden Court Restaurant within the luxurious Sofitel Sydney Wentworth. Feel transported into a state of wonder as you soak in the ambience of the romantic European-style venue tucked away within the garden courtyard area, a world away from the bustling city.  Enjoy a taste of French classics made locally from the best Australian produce at the buffet breakfast a la Francaise, including croissants (of course), freshly prepared crepes, waffles, eggs and other traditional breakfast favourites like bacon and mushrooms. Looking for breakfast a little out of the ordinary? There are Asian-inspired options too including fried rice, flavourful steamed vegetables, an array of juicy dumplings and traditional congee.

For those looking for vegetarian options, look no further than gourmet fresh salads and seasonal fruits to enrich your morning, or compote and jams to go with the selection of artisan bread. Treat yourself to premium yoghurt with toppings such as Australian honeycomb, nutritious grains, seeds and nuts, as well as bircher muesli and dried fruits. Enjoy a morning boost with an extensive range of fresh juices including the popular detox, energising or anti-ageing options.

The best part? Buffet-style dining means you can relax, take your time and go back for seconds if you desire - making a different selection each time.

Lose track of time as you wonder about the exclusive city streets filled with the best labels and luxury brands for the ultimate shopping experience. Explore the iconic Queen Victoria Building (QVB) in the heart of Sydney as you take in the boutique-like atmosphere matched with a touch of history with traditional style lifts, delicate handrails and spiral staircases. Filled with an exclusive range of luxury stores such as Jimmy Choo, Dior, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tony Bianco and Swarovski you’ll be spoiled for choice. Complete your QVB shopping experience with a stop at the iconic Haigh’s Chocolate store or a morning snack at La Belle Miette before continuing to more boutiques and shops along Pitt Street. 

Wander along the iconic shopping hub of Pitt Street filled with luxurious boutiques built within the classic architecture of the city. Browse through world-renowned stores such as Ted Baker, Tag Heuer, Prada, Polo Ralph Lauren, Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino, Gucci and VanHeusen for the ultimate shopping experience. Feel inspired as you walk past the extravagant storefronts showcasing the best of new season fashion as you continue your shopping experience.

A short trip from the city centre, explore the streets of Paddington and the unique boutiques on offer. Immerse yourself in a European-style shopping experience with edgy laneways and iconic shopfronts dotted throughout the area. Treat yourself to the fine luxuries of life at The Intersection, with stores such as Aje, Bassike, Camilla, Camilla and Marc, Sass and Bide and Natasha Schweitzer to make you sparkle.

With a busy morning of shopping complete, cure your hunger with a French-inspired dining experience at the Bistro Papillon. Experience delicious food in a bistro-style environment as you take in the historical European ambience. Indulge in decadent entrées and plats de resistance, transporting you to Europe through unique flavours and traditions. From a simple baguette paired with salted butter to a decadent raclette, your cravings will be met. With experienced chefs and attentive service, relax and regenerate before an afternoon of Opera.

The Sofitel Sydney Wentworth is Sydney's hotel of the arts, with exclusive partners including the Art Gallery of NSW, the Australian World Orchestra and Opera Australia. With many events throughout the year, experience rich cultural through music with Opera Australia at the Sydney Opera House. Dress in your finest and immerse yourself in the arts of the elite, whilst surrounded by unique architecture and breathtaking views of the iconic Sydney Harbour. Witness Grammy award-winning performances and check out exclusive member benefits like inviting a plus one to experience a tour backstage - the cherry on top of your cultural experience. 

Complete your entertaining evening of fine arts with a mouthwatering meal at the exclusive Bennelong restaurant. Take in the iconic harbour views from floor-to-ceiling windows at the breathtaking Sydney Opera House, as you immerse yourself in the exclusive, chic restaurant ambience. Indulge in a decadent three-course menu starting with an entrée of your selection, with unforgettable plates such as delicate sashimi scallops garnished with oyster cream, white radish, aged vinegar, virgin soy and seaweed. Choose a main to excite your taste buds, such as the Maremma pasture-raised duck hunter sausage with grapes and kampot pepper. 

Complete your luxurious dining experience with a decadent dessert, perhaps chocolate crackle or cherry jam lamington as your third course. Personalise your meal with additional sides like the Blackmore 9+ wagyu chestnut or king brown back pearl mushroom jus to ensure you have the dinner experience of a lifetime. With award-winning cuisine by executive chef Peter Gilmore and impeccable service, you are guaranteed to experience dining like no other.

Continue your night at the Bennelong with a digestif at the Bennelong Bar, reserved exclusively for restaurant guests to continue their unique dining experience. Indulge in an Australian cheese course whilst you sip on fine wines, decorative and flavourful cocktails or premium spirits. Explore local fine wines from the best Australian and New Zealand vineyards and international favourites exclusively imported from France and Portugal. Sip on internationally-inspired cocktails matched with local Australian flavours such as beetroot, black pepper, fig and saffron, complemented with premium liquors.

If you wish to explore the after-dark magic Sydney city has to offer, wander along Circular Quay's harbourside back to the city centre and enjoy an intimate boutique bar experience at Palmer & Co. With a sense of exclusivity as you enter the nondescript door, travel back in time to the era of live music redefining debauchery. Indulge in signature cocktails such as fire and flame or Rolls-Royce as you immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere. Cure any late-night cravings with charcuterie of black truffle and smoky flavours hidden amongst olives, meats and cheeses. With cool service, this unique location is the perfect end for your dining experience. 

Wander back to the Sofitel Wentworth Sydney for the ultimate luxury escape. Indulge in sophisticated comfort with a hint of French elegance and European traditions as you unwind from a busy day of exploring Sydney's iconic locations with a world-class, 5-star hospitality experience. Located in Sydney's CBD enjoy the benefits of the exclusive prime location and the rich culture that surrounds it. With a blend of European style combined with the classic Sofitel luxury, unwind in a Wentworth suite. 

Enjoy your private oasis in a luxury junior suite offering a spacious and elegant atmosphere for you to unwind. Sit back and relax as you look out to the city skyline, with unobstructed views in your junior suite. Enjoy a separate sitting room to entertain up to eight people or simply indulge in the spaciousness. With a dedicated work area for those bleasure travellers, enjoy the benefits of leaving work separate from your area of relaxation. With a large bedroom enjoy the perfect night's sleep with Mybed technology available to personalise your bed for complete comfort. Indulge in a relaxing bath in the large marble bathroom to wind down and relax before the next day's adventures.

Start your morning in style with a decedent breakfast experience at The Grounds of Alexandria. With an array of events spread throughout the year such as The Grounds Wonderland and the Mad Hatters High Tea, you’ll never have a dull experience. Watch the world go past in a magical wonderland as you indulge in the five pillars within The Ground's unique breakfast menu consisting of fruits and grains, the classics, eggs with your personal touch, juice, shakes and smoothies and an exclusive wine and cocktail offering for 10 am.  

If you're after a morning health kick, look no further than the fresh-cut fruit salad or the 5-grain porridge with vibrant fruits, pair this with a fresh juice, shake or smoothie for the ultimate fresh and fulfilling breakfast. You know you can't go wrong when it comes to the classics menu, with favourite options like smashed avo on toast, Mediterranean bowl or the iconic breakfast mezza. Indulge in breakfast with your personal touch, with eggs done your way to complement your brekkie burger or big brekkie selection. Escape to a state of relaxation whilst feeling boosted for the day to come with an award-winning barista-made coffee, fragrant tea of your choice, or wine or cocktail after 10 am to make your morning that extra bit special.

Wander down to the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney for a tranquill experience within this iconic metropolis. Immerse yourself in natural history as you take in the exquisite harbour views in Australia's oldest botanic garden. With 60 locations to explore within the Royal Botanic Gardens, educate yourself as you learn about the native attributes and historical symbolism each landmark or plantation holds. After your refreshing stroll through colourful plantations with the ocean breeze against you, sit back and relax along lush picnic areas as you soak up the Sydney sun next to the harbour's edge.

After a morning walk in the spectacular Royal Botanic Gardens, tease your appetite with a mouth-watering Italian dining experience at Fratelli Paradiso in Potts Point. Immerse yourself in the chic but simple surroundings whilst you indulge in authentic Italian cuisine. Reward your appetite with the simple yet tasty Pane with marinated olives as you sip on a refreshing cocktail. Moving onto the main course, appreciate the flavours of their famous lasagnetta or risotto - like getting a hearty Italian hug in a traditional home-style venue. Finish your dining experience the true Italian way with an affogato before closing out the day.

Sydney is a city of entertainment and culture, with multiple seasonal activities and events occurring throughout the year. If you find yourself in Sydney throughout January, immerse yourself in the magic and entertainment of the Sydney Festival. From live theatre to music and original performances, immerse yourself into the world of the performance arts, taking you on a journey through the rich culture and history Sydney holds. With an exclusive guide on the best bars and bites around the action, you are guaranteed to experience the best Sydney has to offer. 

Another great seasonal event in Sydney is the Chinatown night market running from October to July. The Chinatown markets showcase a multicultural community allowing you to taste the most loved dishes from popular restaurants. With laneways of food stalls lit by traditional lanterns enjoy the best of an Asian from the streets of Sydney. 

With many other events happening in Sydney such as the Christmas Markets in the Rocks, Sydney Festival and New Year's Eve, be sure to check out what's on before visiting to make the most of your final hours in this incredible city.