Sydney: When To Go

Peak Season: late-December to early-February Seventy-degree weather and a rich program of outdoor celebrations and beach events, including the three-week Sydney Festival in January, draw crowds. Book at least three months in advance.

Off-Season: May to August Since Sydney is in the Southern Hemisphere, these months are actually in the dead of winter. Still, the weather is mild, if not pleasant (average temperature: 56°F). Hotel bargains are the most likely in June.

Sweet Spot: late-September to early-December; late-February to April With its temperate subtropical climate Sydney is popular practically year-round, but these months see slightly fewer visitors than high season. Temperatures average in the mid-60s.