Discover Western Sydney

Western Sydney is a multicultural melting pot, overflowing with creativity, nature and history that stretches from Sydney's western suburbs of Parramatta, Penrith and Sydney Olympic Park into the horizon and as far as the Blue Mountains.

Flying into Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) puts you 30 minutes from explorable wilderness. You'll be hiking around ancient rock formations on one day, kayaking the Nepean River the next, and spotting kangaroos, wallabies and echidnas with regularity. WSI is undoubtedly the gateway to some of Greater Sydney's greatest outdoor experiences.

Planning your trip

Western Sydney International (WSI) is ideal if you're

• Visiting family or friends in Parramatta, Penrith, Blacktown, Liverpool, Campbelltown or surrounding Western Sydney suburbs.
• Heading to the Blue Mountains (30 minutes from WSI).
• Planning to explore Western Sydney Parklands, the Hawkesbury region or the Greater Blue Mountains area.
• Collecting a rental car to drive to regional NSW (the airport connects directly to major motorways heading west, north and south).

For the latest transport options, visit the official Western Sydney International (WSI) website.

1. Eat around the world in one suburb

Parramatta's dining scene reflects Western Sydney's extraordinary diversity. Start with Filipino breakfast at Kanto, share Lebanese mezze at Byblos, try South Indian dosa at Amma's, then finish with gelato from Cow and the Moon (they've won international awards). It's world travel on a plate.

2. Kayak the Parramatta River at dawn

Early morning kayaking on the Parramatta River reveals a quieter side of Sydney. Paddle past mangroves, spot water dragons sunning on the banks and watch the city slowly wake up. Several operators run tours from Parramatta and you're back on land in time for breakfast.

3. Glide over the Nepean River

The Nepean River offers something for everyone. Paddle through serene waters by kayak with views of the rugged Nepean Gorge, or get your adrenaline fix at Cables Wake Park for wakeboarding and waterskiing with the Blue Mountains as your backdrop. First-timers get expert instruction, experienced riders can tackle the ramps and everyone can refuel at the riverside cafe afterwards.

4. Walk the Three Sisters at sunset

In the Blue Mountains, the Three Sisters rock formation glows golden as the sun drops behind the Jamison Valley. Take the short walk to Echo Point lookout or, for a fuller experience, descend the Giant Stairway – 900 steps that wind past the Sisters and down into the ancient rainforest below.

Western Sydney Parklands is one of the largest urban parks in the world. More than 27 kilometres long and covering 5,280 hectares, it offers cycling and walking trails, picnic areas and playgrounds. Prospect Hill shows you panoramic views across Sydney, while the abattoirs precinct at Homebush hosts markets and festivals.

Surfers don't have to head to the beach as URBNSURF, located in Sydney Olympic Park, is Sydney's first urban surf park, offering consistent, quality waves for surfers of all levels. The 3.6ha facility features a central lagoon split down the middle to generate either left-hander or right-hander waves (depending on which side you paddle out on).

History enthusiasts should visit Parramatta's Old Government House, Australia's oldest surviving public building, or Elizabeth Farm, the nation's oldest European homestead. The Female Orphan School in Rydalmere also tells important stories of early colonial life.

For shopping, Westfield Parramatta and Penrith Plaza offer rich pickings for affordable prices. For fun, the Penrith Panthers entertainment precinct brings together dining, sports and live entertainment.

Craft beer fans should explore the region's breweries – Badlands Brewery in Penrith, Wayward Brewing in Camperdown and the growing brewing scene around Parramatta.