2025 Doonside Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

The wildlife park is located near Sydney and is usually visited en route to Three Sisters in Blue Mountains. The park seems spacious enough for the animals to roam around and have their own space. Further there are animals from all over Australia, giving you a good screenshot of what this varied country has to offer. Head over here to see up close all of Aussie's iconic wildlife, especially kangaroos and koalas. #wildlife #explore #travel #sydney #australia

Hello there~ Today, let’s embark on a dream journey to “Australia,” the land of adorable kangaroos and koalas! 😍 This country isn’t just about breathtaking nature; it’s also home to vibrant cities, mouthwatering food, and cuddly animals you’ll want to hug all day long 💓. Ready? Pack your (imaginary) bags and let’s go! 🎒🛫 Day 1 – Flying to Sydney Rise and shine! Get ready for the adventure! After a 9-hour flight (a bit tiring but totally worth it), we landed in Sydney. The cool and pleasant air greeted us, carrying a hint of spring 🌸. 🏙️ Day 2 – Exploring Sydney! We started the day at the iconic “Sydney Opera House,” a long-time dream destination. It’s absolutely stunning! Inside, it’s a grand theater, while outside, every angle is picture-perfect 📸. A short walk brought us to the majestic “Sydney Harbour Bridge,” which left us in awe 😆. In the afternoon, we strolled around “Darling Harbour,” filled with chic cafes, restaurants, and romantic waterfront views. Even though I came solo, my heart felt so full~ We ended the day with authentic fish & chips—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and utterly delicious 🍟🐟. 🐨 Day 3 – Visiting Koalas Today, we headed to “Featherdale Wildlife Park” near Sydney. Let me tell you… koalas are irresistibly cute! Their wrinkly bodies and round eyes made me want to take one home (but that’s not allowed, haha). We also fed kangaroos, who hopped over to us with trust 🦘💕. In the evening, we explored The Rocks, a vintage-style area with European vibes. Shopping and snapping photos were so much fun! We ended the day with a sunset ferry ride at Circular Quay—so romantic I wished time could stop 🧡. 🌿 Day 4 – Hiking at Blue Mountains A trip to Australia wouldn’t be complete without visiting the “Blue Mountains”! After a 2-hour train ride, we arrived at Katoomba Station. The “Three Sisters” viewpoint was as magnificent as they say, with lush green mountains and deep valleys stretching endlessly. Breathing in the fresh air felt like pure bliss 🍃💙. We took a light nature walk, and the mist floating by added a magical touch—like stepping into a fairytale ✨. Back in the city, we enjoyed a bowl of hot ramen at a cozy Japanese eatery, so good I wanted to return the next day 🍜. 🏖️ Day 5 – Heading South to Gold Coast! Flying to Gold Coast, we swapped the bustling city for a cool beach vibe. The clear blue skies and crystal-clear waters were so inviting! We stayed at Surfers Paradise, a haven for surfers 🌊🌞. Walking along the beach in a floral dress with the breeze blowing felt like being in a postcard (even if my face isn’t as pretty as the scenery, haha 😝). In the evening, we explored the night market, filled with handmade crafts, delicious food, and live music—a perfect combo 🛍️🎶. 🎢 Day 6 – Thrills at the Theme Park Gold Coast is famous for its theme parks, and today we visited “Warner Bros. Movie World.” It was a childhood dream come true with Batman, Superman, and Bugs Bunny 💥🎠. We screamed our hearts out on the roller coasters (my voice was gone by the end 😂). The highlight was the adorable cartoon character parade—it was so heartwarming I almost cried 🥹. 🍃☕ Day 7 – Relaxing at Byron Bay A short drive brought us to “Byron Bay,” a charming seaside town with a hipster vibe. It’s filled with homemade coffee shops, second-hand bookstores, and street musicians 🎸. We visited Cape Byron Lighthouse, a viewpoint where you might spot whales if you’re lucky (we only saw cute birds, but that’s okay 🐦). Sipping coffee and gazing at the ocean, I thought to myself… I wish I could freeze this moment ☕🌅. ✈️ Final Day – Heading Home with a Full Heart It’s time to say goodbye to Australia… Though a bit sad, I’m grateful for the chance to explore, meet new friends, and discover a simpler, happier version of myself 🧳💖. ⸻ This trip ends with a heart full of smiles and countless adorable photos. If you’re wondering whether to visit Australia, I say… go for it! You’ll fall in love with every moment 💘✨.

#Travel Itinerary If you want to experience both the urban charm of Sydney and the Australian wildlife in one day, a combination of a city tour and a visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park is the perfect itinerary. Explore the heart of Sydney in the morning, and meet cute koalas and kangaroos in the afternoon. --- 🕘 9:00 AM – Start Sydney City Tour Visit Town Hall, QVB (Queen Victoria Building) Take a leisurely walk to St. Mary's Cathedral and Hyde Park Have a quick brunch at a cafe near Martin Place and Sydney Tower 🕚 11:00 AM – Circular Quay → Opera House Walk around the Opera House and take a commemorative photo Walk along the promenade with the Harbour Bridge in the background 🕐 1:00 PM – Go to Featherdale Wildlife Park It takes about 45-60 minutes by car (towards West Sydney) You can transfer to a bus at Blacktown Train Station for public transportation 🦘 2:00 PM – Visit Featherdale Wildlife Park Hold a koala (reservation required), feed a kangaroo View over 100 species of Australian native animals including wallabies, wombats, emus, and dingoes Family trip, Especially recommended for travelers with children 🛍 4:30 PM - Check out souvenirs and prepare to return Various items such as animal character dolls, commemorative magnets, etc. Return to a nearby restaurant or downtown Sydney for dinner --- This itinerary is also ideal for short-term travelers to Australia. It feels like experiencing both the sophistication of the city and the ecology of Australia in one day. In particular, the zoo is a nature-friendly space that cannot be compared to urban zoos, so it is definitely worth visiting at least once. #Sydney travel itinerary #Featherdale Wildlife Park #Koala experience #Australian city tour #Sydney city walk #Australian animal encounter #Family travel course #Australian nature experience #Recommended overseas travel itinerary #Sydney 1-day course #Australian emotional travel #Queen Victoria Building

Combining the sophistication of a city with the vibrancy of nature in a single day is no easy feat. But in Sydney, it's entirely possible. Spend your morning walking across the iconic Harbor Bridge in the heart of the city, and your afternoon meeting koalas at Featherdale Wildlife Park. Could there be a more quintessentially Australian day? ☕ 9:00 AM – Exploring Sydney City Stroll through Town Hall, QVB, and Pitt Street Mall Enjoy a cup of coffee while gazing at the sea from Circular Quay Capture the perfect shot with the Opera House and Harbor Bridge as your backdrop 🚐 1:00 PM – Heading to Featherdale Wildlife Park Located about an hour's drive away in the suburbs Accessible via tour bus, rental car, or a train and bus combination 🦘 2:00 PM – Encountering Australia's Wildlife Experience close encounters with koalas and kangaroos Discover unique animals like wallabies, emus, and Tasmanian devils Adorable wildlife that brings smiles to both kids and adults 🛍 4:30 PM – Souvenir Shopping & Returning to Sydney Shop for animal-shaped plush toys, koala mugs, and local Australian snacks Wrap up your day with dinner at Darling Harbor upon returning to the city Even with a short itinerary, this day is the perfect answer for those wanting to see the real Australia. A harmonious blend of nature and city, relaxation and adventure—an ideal day for any overseas traveler.

If you're wondering how to spend a day during your trip to Australia, I highly recommend combining a tour of Sydney's city center with a visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park. In the morning, you can explore the culture and history of the city, and in the afternoon, get up close with Australia's nature and wildlife. --- 🕘 09:00 – Sydney Town Hall & QVB Stroll Stroll around the historic buildings near Town Hall Enjoy a light breakfast at a bakery inside QVB A perfect area to experience European vibes in the heart of the city 🕚 11:00 – Circular Quay & Opera House Walk Snap a photo at the Opera House The walking path towards the Harbor Bridge offers a refreshing sea breeze and an uplifting mood 🕐 13:00 – Depart for Featherdale (Approx. 1-hour drive) Located on the way to the Blue Mountains A popular spot for family tourists 🦘 14:00 – Arrive at Featherdale Wildlife Park Meet Australia's native animals like koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and Tasmanian devils Don't miss the feeding experience—a must-try activity Plenty of photo zones to capture memorable travel moments 🛍 16:00 – Browse the Gift Shop and Return Find animal-shaped plush toys, postcards, mugs, and more Families with kids will especially enjoy the selection --- This itinerary lets you experience Australia's iconic landmarks and adorable wildlife all in one day. If you want to feel the true charm of Sydney, where nature and city coexist, follow this route.

#springitinerary #FeatherdaleWildlifePark #FamilyFunAustralia #KangarooFeeding #KoalaEating #SydneyWithKids #TravelWithKids #AussieWildlife #AustraliaNature #AnimalEncounters #FeatherdaleAdventure Featherdale Wildlife Park turned out to be a family favorite during our Sydney trip. I went with my family, and the kids were absolutely thrilled. The highlight? Feeding kangaroos up close — they were gentle, calm, and surprisingly friendly! The kids couldn’t stop giggling every time a kangaroo nibbled from their hands. Even the adults in our group couldn’t resist joining in. Another unforgettable moment? Watching a koala bear munching on eucalyptus leaves right above us! It felt surreal seeing such a classic Aussie animal enjoying its breakfast — so close and relaxed. It wasn’t just the kids who were fascinated; I found myself standing there, grinning and taking far too many photos. The whole place has a relaxed, open feel, and it’s small enough to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed. You’re not just looking at animals — you’re right there beside them. Travel Tips and How to Get There: • Best time to visit: • Mornings are cooler and animals are more active • What to bring: • Sunscreen, hat, water bottle, and comfortable shoes • Bring snacks if you’re visiting with little ones (there’s a café too) • Must-dos: • Buy kangaroo feed at the entrance — it’s a must for kids! • Don’t miss the koala area — seeing them eat is a rare and sweet moment • Check out the daily keeper talks for extra animal info • Facilities: • Stroller-friendly paths, shaded areas, clean restrooms How to Get There: • By car from Sydney CBD: • About 45 minutes drive, with parking available • By train + bus: • Take the train to Blacktown Station, then hop on Bus #729 straight to the park • Extra tips: • Weekdays are less crowded • Plan to spend 2–3 hours for a relaxed visit • Hand sanitizer is handy after animal feeding

🕰️Opening hours: 08:00 - 17:00 💰Average consumption per person: AUD$44 for adults (there will be discounts on the official website, and there will be special prices when buying through Trip.com) 🗓️Itinerary: It is recommended to visit Blue Mountain Park on the same day. Go to the zoo in the morning when there will be fewer people and the animals will be more energetic. When I arrived before 9am, the koalas were very active. It was rare to see them jump to another tree. I bought AUD5 worth of food to feed the Quokka and kangaroos, and they all rushed to eat it. You can pay attention to the official website for their animal feeding time. It seems that wombat and devil will hide in the tree holes, and the staff will bring them out when feeding. Only kangaroos can be touched and fed up close. If you are interested, you can pay extra to get up close to Quokka, but you have to make an appointment early. There is basically no need to queue up to take photos with Koala in the morning. The price is affordable, and you can touch the patpat and feet. After taking the photos, the staff told us that we can take photos of Koala up close, which is very worthwhile

nice place!

Medieval Fayer: The annual Medieval Fayer is now open in Sydney! Everywhere you look, you can see people in ancient costumes, large-scale fights, stalls with all kinds of equipment, and mushroom people. No wonder there are mushrooms in Super Mario. The story of the knight saving the princess is really happening right before your eyes! 📍Address: Nurragingy Reserve NSW

Departed on Thursday, February 22, and arrived on Friday, February 23, at noon. Returned on the evening flight on Friday, March 1, the following week. - Spent a full 8 days just in Sydney! I considered visiting Brisbane or Melbourne for 2 nights, but I don't regret it because the 8 days in Sydney were so good. I left a couple of days open to revisit places I liked, and it was a happy experience. [Weather] The weather was generally really good. The clouds in Sydney were so beautiful. It was hot but dry, which was comfortable. However, the only disappointment was that it rained on the day I went to the Blue Mountains, so I couldn't see it properly. I chose to stay until the evening instead of going to Featherdale Wildlife Park because I wanted to see the stars, but it was a pity. The day I went to Port Stephens, it hit 40 degrees, so it was a bit tough, but the sky was clear without a single cloud, so the photos came out well. The rest of the days had the best weather. [Flight] - I used China Eastern Airlines for the flight, with a 2-3 hour layover in Shanghai both ways. The price was 750,000 won (booked through Trip.com). - I purchased the flight tickets about a month and a half in advance. - The Shanghai-Incheon round-trip flights are definitely cramped, but the Shanghai-Sydney round-trip flights were surprisingly spacious and very nice. The in-flight meals were also good. [Recommended Restaurants and Cafes] - A guide who has lived in Australia for over 20 years recommended a steakhouse on the first floor of a hotel called Sanctuary, and it was delicious (definitely a lot of locals there). You can eat a lot for just 50,000 won. - Other places like the famous Hurricane's Steakhouse from Naver blogs or cafes were just okay. - When you go to Sydney, make sure to ask your guides about tours to the Blue Mountains or Port Stephens. They will tell you about places that are famous among locals, not just those well-known in Korea. - Next, for cafes, I thought Gumption Coffee was just okay, but the Grounds Coffee (latte), Skittle Lane (cappuccino), and Campos Coffee (latte or cappuccino) at the main store were delicious. Australian coffee with milk is definitely tasty. [Recommended Photo Spots] 1. If you go to the side of the entrance of Luna Park, not inside, you can see the Ferris wheel, Harbour Bridge, and the Opera House. I like the 'triple set' so I also took a walking video there. 2. On the way to the Opera House in the evening, the palm trees are lit with yellow lights. Since you can see the Harbour Bridge from here, it's a great spot for taking photos from behind. Walking videos taken here turn out really pretty.

🦘 Featherdale Wildlife Park 🐨 Time: ~17:00 (ticket booth closes at 16:00) A zoo that is open even on major public holidays in Australia, such as New Year's Day! The most famous zoo in Sydney is Taronga Zoo, but Featherdale is a zoo where you can touch animals, so I chose it!! ⭐️ I went at closing time, and the koala eye photo booth was closed, but if you are going with children, go early, pay a little more, and definitely!! I hope you take a picture with a koala ⭐️ #HotPlace #WinterTravel #SummerChristmas #CityTravel #OverseasTravel #Sydney #Australia #AustraliaTravel #RecommendedOverseasTravelDestination #Zoo #WithNature #Couples #Families #UniqueExperience

📍 Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park Located in Sydney, Australia, this is a well-known zoo. The interior is quite large and there are many things to see, so many tourists flock here during this season to have a picnic. If you go to Australia, you should definitely visit 😉❤️ You can see a lot of good things!! #Travel #Picnic #Australia #Sydney #HotPlace