Christmas Extravaganza in Sydney
Tours

Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley and Boxing Day Sydney Harbour Cruise

Tours

8 Days

20 to 27 December 2025

Tours

Active

Tours

$6,510pptw

Tours

130 villabucks

Christmas Extravaganza in Sydney

Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley and Boxing Day Sydney Harbour Cruise

Experience the joy of the festive season with a beautifully curated eight-day journey through Sydney and the Hunter Valley. Discover iconic landmarks and world-class gardens, cruise the stunning Hawkesbury River and indulge in fine dining at elegant estates and renowned restaurants, including a memorable dinner at SkyFeast, where panoramic views of the city create a magical evening. Marvel at the dazzling Christmas Lights Spectacular in the Hunter Valley Gardens, enjoy an exquisite and festive Christmas Day lunch in the heart of the Blue Mountains and relax with a Boxing Day cruise to witness the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. From a charming high tea at Vaucluse House to unforgettable encounters with native wildlife at the Australian Reptile Park, this festive escape captures the very best of Sydney in true Villa style.

Experience the joy of the festive season with a beautifully curated eight-day journey through Sydney and the Hunter Valley. Discover iconic landmarks and world-class gardens, cruise the stunning Hawkesbury River and indulge in fine dining at elegant estates and renowned restaurants, including a memorable dinner at SkyFeast, where panoramic views of the city create a magical evening. Marvel at the dazzling Christmas Lights Spectacular in the Hunter Valley Gardens, enjoy an exquisite and festive Christmas Day lunch in the heart of the Blue Mountains and relax with a Boxing Day cruise to witness the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. From a charming high tea at Vaucluse House to unforgettable encounters with native wildlife at the Australian Reptile Park, this festive escape captures the very best of Sydney in true Villa style.

Itinerary

Your holiday itinerary (ex Perth, Western Australia)

Day 1. Perth to Sydney (D)
Your Christmas holiday begins with courtesy home pick-up and transfers to Perth Airport for your flight to Sydney. On arrival, your coach will transfer you to your hotel in the heart of Darling Harbour. Enjoy a warm welcome dinner this evening.
3 Nights: Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour, Sydney

Day 2. Historic Sydney and High Tea (BLD)
Begin your day with a city orientation tour, followed by visits to the Museum of Sydney and the historic Hyde Park Barracks. Then, travel to the elegant Vaucluse House Estate, where you'll explore its beautifully preserved interiors and tranquil heritage gardens. Enjoy a delightful high tea lunch in the serene and picturesque setting of the estate.

Day 3. Manly Beach, Royal Botanic Gardens and SkyFeast (BD)
Take a scenic drive through Sydney’s coastal suburbs and beaches, with a stop at Manly. Visit The Rocks Discovery Museum and enjoy lunch (at own expense) under the twinkling Christmas decorations at the Queen Victoria Building. In the afternoon, wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens and enjoy views from Mrs Macquarie’s Chair before an evening highlight. Enjoy an unforgettable evening at SkyFeast at Sydney Tower, where you will dine in the sky with sweeping 360-degree views of the city skyline. Savour a lavish buffet of international cuisine as Sydney sparkles beneath you.

Day 4. Hawkesbury River to Hunter Valley (BLD)
Travel north to the Hawkesbury River for a peaceful cruise on the Hawkesbury Mail Boat, the famous Riverboat Postman, and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the lower Hawkesbury River as we deliver the mail and other essentials the river-access-only settlements upriver from Brooklyn. The first Riverboat Postman started the run in 1910, and the tradition continues today with Hawkesbury Cruises, the current custodian of this fabulous day trip. Your skippers are locals who have lived in the area their whole lives - be entertained by the stories of the river whilst cruising in comfort up this spectacular waterway. Be assured that at least 95% of what they say is true. Then follow the scenic Tourist Drive 33 to Wollombi before arriving in the Hunter Valley. This evening, stroll through the Southern Hemisphere’s largest Christmas lights display at the Hunter Valley Gardens and enjoy dinner among the vines.
Overnight: Wine Country Motor Inn, Hunter Valley

Day 5. Mt Penang Gardens and Reptile Park (BD)
Today we explore the best of the Central Coast, lose yourself in the beauty and fascinating landscape design of the stunning Mt Penang Gardens. Witness 12 different themed gardens incorporating 70% Australian natives and intriguing sculpture exhibitions before visiting the Australian Reptile Park. Home to over 2,000 animals, this is a hands-on park where you can choose to cuddle up to koalas, kangaroos, quokkas and dingoes or even test your bravery and hold a python (additional cost applies). By afternoon we make our way back to the darling harbour for the evening.
3 Nights: Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour, Sydney

Day 6. Christmas Day in the Blue Mountains (BLD)
Celebrate the day with a scenic drive to the iconic Hydro Majestic Hotel in the beautiful Blue Mountains, where a traditional festive lunch awaits—complete with sweeping views over the stunning Megalong Valley. Spend a leisurely afternoon soaking in the atmosphere, perhaps with a gentle stroll or some quiet holiday reflection, before returning to Sydney.

Please note: Due to scheduling limitations, we are unable to include church visits in this Christmas itinerary.

Day 7. Boxing Day Harbour Cruise (BLD)
Begin your Boxing Day with a relaxed morning before boarding a spectacular Sydney Harbour luncheon cruise, offering prime views of one of the world’s most iconic sailing events—the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Feel the excitement build as the fleet lines up for the dramatic start, with live commentary bringing the action to life, all while you enjoy a gourmet lunch and take in panoramic harbour views.

Day 8. Sydney to Perth (B)
After breakfast, transfer to Sydney Airport for your return flight to Perth. Upon arrival, your courtesy driver will return you home safely.

Itinerary subject to changes. Terms and conditions apply. Call 08 9754 2026 for details.

Guide: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

eg. BLD indicates three meals included on that day of the itinerary.



PPTW is per person twinshare accommodation.


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Dates & Pricing

8 Days
20 to 27 December 2025

$6,510pptw

$1,065 single option

Highlights

• Christmas Day lunch at the Hydro Majestic Hotel
• Boxing Day Sydney Harbour cruise to witness the the start of Sydney to Hobart Race
• Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Spectacular
• “Skyfeast” dinner at the Sydney Tower with 360-degree views
• High Tea Lunch at Vaucluse House
• Sydney Christmas lights
• Hawkesbury Riverboat Postman cruise
• Museum of Sydney & Hyde Park Barracks
• The Rocks Discovery Museum
• Australian Reptile Park & Mount Penang Gardens
• The Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney

Inclusions

• Pre/post tour transfers (ex Perth, WA)
• Airfares & taxes (ex Perth, WA)
• 18 meals – 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 7 dinners
• 7 nights’ accommodation
• Tours & attractions
• Professional Villa Tour Leader
 

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Dates & Pricing

Duration: 8 Days

Dates:  20 to 27 December 2025

Activity Level: Active

$6,510pptw

$1,065 single option

Earn: 130 villabucks

Highlights

• Christmas Day lunch at the Hydro Majestic Hotel
• Boxing Day Sydney Harbour cruise to witness the the start of Sydney to Hobart Race
• Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Spectacular
• “Skyfeast” dinner at the Sydney Tower with 360-degree views
• High Tea Lunch at Vaucluse House
• Sydney Christmas lights
• Hawkesbury Riverboat Postman cruise
• Museum of Sydney & Hyde Park Barracks
• The Rocks Discovery Museum
• Australian Reptile Park & Mount Penang Gardens
• The Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney

Inclusions

 • Pre/post tour transfers (ex Perth, WA)
• Airfares & taxes (ex Perth, WA)
• 18 meals – 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 7 dinners
• 7 nights’ accommodation
• Tours & attractions
• Professional Villa Tour Leader

Itinerary

Your holiday itinerary (ex Perth, Western Australia)

Day 1. Perth to Sydney (D)
Your Christmas holiday begins with courtesy home pick-up and transfers to Perth Airport for your flight to Sydney. On arrival, your coach will transfer you to your hotel in the heart of Darling Harbour. Enjoy a warm welcome dinner this evening.
3 Nights: Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour, Sydney

Day 2. Historic Sydney and High Tea (BLD)
Begin your day with a city orientation tour, followed by visits to the Museum of Sydney and the historic Hyde Park Barracks. Then, travel to the elegant Vaucluse House Estate, where you'll explore its beautifully preserved interiors and tranquil heritage gardens. Enjoy a delightful high tea lunch in the serene and picturesque setting of the estate.

Day 3. Manly Beach, Royal Botanic Gardens and SkyFeast (BD)
Take a scenic drive through Sydney’s coastal suburbs and beaches, with a stop at Manly. Visit The Rocks Discovery Museum and enjoy lunch (at own expense) under the twinkling Christmas decorations at the Queen Victoria Building. In the afternoon, wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens and enjoy views from Mrs Macquarie’s Chair before an evening highlight. Enjoy an unforgettable evening at SkyFeast at Sydney Tower, where you will dine in the sky with sweeping 360-degree views of the city skyline. Savour a lavish buffet of international cuisine as Sydney sparkles beneath you.

Day 4. Hawkesbury River to Hunter Valley (BLD)
Travel north to the Hawkesbury River for a peaceful cruise on the Hawkesbury Mail Boat, the famous Riverboat Postman, and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the lower Hawkesbury River as we deliver the mail and other essentials the river-access-only settlements upriver from Brooklyn. The first Riverboat Postman started the run in 1910, and the tradition continues today with Hawkesbury Cruises, the current custodian of this fabulous day trip. Your skippers are locals who have lived in the area their whole lives - be entertained by the stories of the river whilst cruising in comfort up this spectacular waterway. Be assured that at least 95% of what they say is true. Then follow the scenic Tourist Drive 33 to Wollombi before arriving in the Hunter Valley. This evening, stroll through the Southern Hemisphere’s largest Christmas lights display at the Hunter Valley Gardens and enjoy dinner among the vines.
Overnight: Wine Country Motor Inn, Hunter Valley

Day 5. Mt Penang Gardens and Reptile Park (BD)
Today we explore the best of the Central Coast, lose yourself in the beauty and fascinating landscape design of the stunning Mt Penang Gardens. Witness 12 different themed gardens incorporating 70% Australian natives and intriguing sculpture exhibitions before visiting the Australian Reptile Park. Home to over 2,000 animals, this is a hands-on park where you can choose to cuddle up to koalas, kangaroos, quokkas and dingoes or even test your bravery and hold a python (additional cost applies). By afternoon we make our way back to the darling harbour for the evening.
3 Nights: Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour, Sydney

Day 6. Christmas Day in the Blue Mountains (BLD)
Celebrate the day with a scenic drive to the iconic Hydro Majestic Hotel in the beautiful Blue Mountains, where a traditional festive lunch awaits—complete with sweeping views over the stunning Megalong Valley. Spend a leisurely afternoon soaking in the atmosphere, perhaps with a gentle stroll or some quiet holiday reflection, before returning to Sydney.

Please note: Due to scheduling limitations, we are unable to include church visits in this Christmas itinerary.

Day 7. Boxing Day Harbour Cruise (BLD)
Begin your Boxing Day with a relaxed morning before boarding a spectacular Sydney Harbour luncheon cruise, offering prime views of one of the world’s most iconic sailing events—the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Feel the excitement build as the fleet lines up for the dramatic start, with live commentary bringing the action to life, all while you enjoy a gourmet lunch and take in panoramic harbour views.

Day 8. Sydney to Perth (B)
After breakfast, transfer to Sydney Airport for your return flight to Perth. Upon arrival, your courtesy driver will return you home safely.

Itinerary subject to changes. Terms and conditions apply. Call 08 9754 2026 for details.

New Paragraph

Guide:

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

eg. BLD indicates three meals included on that day of the itinerary.


PPTW is per person twinshare accommodation.

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Tour Activity Levels

With such a diverse collection of travel options, we want to ensure you choose the right holiday for you.


Our tour activity levels are a guide to the required fitness level for each of our holidays.


Look out for the feet when reading about a tour!

  • Relaxed

    Suitable for travellers with lower mobility.


    You will be required to embark/disembark coaches, trains and other transport via steps unaided. You must be able to carry your own luggage and walk short distances. Stairs may need to be negotiated at times. Travellers with walking aids (sticks and walkers) are welcome and those requiring accompanying assistance and/or carer may consider these holidays.

  • Moderate

    Required to walk confidently and unaided.


    Expect guided walking tours of attractions with occasional inclines and stair climbs, some long days and multiple hotel changes during the holiday. Your accommodation may require access via stairs, a short walk to reach hotel facilities and have showers over baths.  Travellers with walking sticks are welcome unless there is overnight rail or overnight cruising - please check with staff.

  • Active

    Requires some fitness. Involves longer days filled with activities, excursions requiring standing and walking for extended periods of time and nature-based activities. You will be required to walk confidently over uneven ground and surfactant at a timely pace.

  • Highly Active

    Requires good general fitness. Excursions will be over more difficult terrain and require a certain level of agility. You will be required to walk confidently for up to 3 hours over uneven surfaces including soft sand, rocky surfaces and creek crossing. Some itineraries will explore remote locations. No walkers allowed.

  • Challenging

    A high level of fitness is required. Tours have an emphasis on active pursuits and often explore remote locations which are challenging to access. You will be required to walk confidently for up to 6 or more hours per day and have experience in outdoor pursuits. No walkers allowed.


    Your health, wellbeing and enjoyment of the holiday is very important to us. In order to protect the health and wellbeing of our staff and suppliers, electric scooters and buggies are not permitted on Villa tours.


    Anyone providing care or assistance to others must be fit and able to provide the required support and care.