If you’re headed to the Irish Open Sydney event this Summer, you’re in for a real treat as Sydney offers one of the best “day off” destinations for poker players in the world. Some of the city’s most famous sights can easily be seen in a single day giving you the chance to really make the most of your time away from the tables.
The 2026 Irish Open Sydney festival takes place at the Poker Palace from August 31 to September 14.
Sydney is one of the world’s top tourist destinations – nearly 4 million overseas visitors headed here last year – and September is the perfect month to visit. It’s early spring in Australia and temperatures are balmy – warm enough for outdoor strolls or sitting at cafes, but not too hot for comfort!
Whale-watching season is also in full swing at this time of year giving you an unrivalled opportunity to watch humpback whales as they migrate south with their calves. Add to that the spectacular beaches and iconic Sydney landmarks such as the Harbour and Opera House and you’re looking at an absolutely perfect poker holiday destination.
Must-see highlights
Sydney Harbour, and ferry to Manly
No first visit to Sydney is complete without exploring Sydney Harbour, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world. With more than 240km (150mi) of shoreline, punctuated by unspoiled beaches, it’s a true natural wonder. It’s also home to some of Australia’s biggest sight-seeing attractions such as Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
For the best harbour experience, locals and savvy insiders recommend taking a public ferry rather than a dedicated tourist cruise. The ferry to Manly offers spectacular views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge for a fraction of the cost of organised trips. Departing from Circular Quay, it takes about half an hour to reach Manly Wharf. The route passes beneath the bridge, alongside the Opera House and out towards the Pacific Ocean. Manly Beach itself is another gem – long, spacious and backed by great little cafés, restaurants and bars, it’s more relaxed than Bondi and a locals’ favourite. Just 15 minutes’ stroll from Manly Beach is Shelly Beach – sheltered from large waves and excellent for snorkelling. It’s a 90-minute bus ride – or 40-minute drive – from the Poker Palace to Circular Quay. An Uber will cost you around A$75–A$110.
Whale watching!
One of the best reasons to visit Sydney in September is the opportunity to see humpback whales. Every year, around 40,000 humpback whales migrate along Australia’s east coast as mothers return south with their calves.
Unlike many whale-watching destinations, you don’t necessarily need to book a boat trip. Sydney’s coastline offers several excellent land-based viewing points, and it’s not uncommon to spot whales breaching offshore while enjoying a coffee or walking along the clifftops. For top viewing locations, check out North Head, South Head and the coastal path between Bondi Beach and Coogee Beach.
For a guaranteed closer look, whale-watching cruises depart daily from Circular Quay and Darling Harbour. Sightings are so common during the season that many operators offer a free return trip if no whales are seen. Even for seasoned travellers, seeing a 40-tonne humpback launch itself clear of the water is an unforgettable experience.
Visiting the Blue Mountains
If you’ve got a full day available, then don’t miss the chance to visit the Blue Mountains. Located around 90 minutes by car from the Poker Palace, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed region offers a landscape that feels like an entirely different world.
The dramatic scenery – with its towering sandstone cliffs plunging into seemingly endless valleys filled with vast eucalyptus forests – is genuinely spectacular. Arguably the most famous sight is the Three Sisters, a rock formation overlooking the immense Jamison Valley, while countless walking trails and lookouts offer panoramic views.
September is one of the best times to visit, as it’s not too hot for walking or hiking, and the generally clear conditions providing great visibility across the mountains. Popular stops include Scenic World, where cable cars and the world’s steepest passenger railway descend into the ancient rainforest, or the charming mountain villages of Leura and Katoomba, packed with cafés, bookshops and local boutiques. Few places offer a better opportunity to switch off from poker for a day and enjoy some of Australia’s most impressive scenery.
The Royal Botanic Garden
Even if you’re not a massive plant lover, Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden is still well worth a visit. Set on a prime stretch of Sydney Harbour between the city centre and the Opera House, it combines spectacular views with 30 hectares of beautifully maintained gardens, lawns and waterfront pathways.
The highlight for many visitors is Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, a sandstone bench carved by convicts in 1810 for the wife of the Governor of New South Wales. Today it offers what is arguably Sydney’s most iconic view, with the Opera House in the foreground and the Harbour Bridge rising behind it. Along the way, you’ll encounter colourful cockatoos and rainbow lorikeets, giant flying foxes hanging from the trees, and countless spots to stop for a coffee or simply soak up the scenery. Best of all, entry is free, making it one of the city’s greatest bargains and an ideal stop for poker players looking to clear their heads between sessions.
Hunter Valley Wine Region
If you’ve got a bit more time on your hands before or after the festival, it’s definitely worth a trip out to the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region. Hunter Valley lies about two hours’ drive north of the Poker Palace and, while a longer excursion than the Blue Mountains, the reward is a completely different side of New South Wales.
Rolling vineyards, gourmet restaurants and more than 150 wineries make it an ideal escape for players looking to recharge away from the poker tables. Whether you’re sampling world-famous Semillon at places such as Brokenwood Wines, enjoying a vineyard lunch, or simply relaxing among the vines, the Hunter offers a slower pace of life that’s hard to find in the city.
Exploring Sydney’s neighbourhoods
Part of Sydney’s immense appeal is that each neighbourhood has its own distinct character. The harbour is definitely the “main event” but it’s great to soak up the atmosphere in some of the city’s other districts as well.
The Rocks – The Rocks is Sydney’s oldest neighbourhood and dates back to 1788 when the First Fleet arrived in Sydney Cove. These early settlers established their homes and businesses on the rocky slopes immediately west of the cove, giving the district its name. Nestled beneath the Harbour Bridge, its cobbled laneways, sandstone buildings and historic pubs offer a glimpse into Sydney’s colonial past. Today, the area is packed with restaurants, cafés and weekend markets, making it an ideal stop between visits to the Opera House and Circular Quay.
Surry Hills – Once a working-class neighbourhood, Surry Hills has now transformed into one of the city’s most fashionable districts. It’s filled with independent coffee shops, wine bars, boutique stores and some of Sydney’s best restaurants.
Newtown – For those looking for something a little more alternative, head to Newtown. Often compared to London’s Camden or Melbourne’s Fitzroy, Newtown is known for its vibrant street art, live music venues, vintage shops and eclectic food scene. King Street, the suburb’s main thoroughfare, stretches for kilometres and offers everything from independent bookshops and record stores to Thai restaurants and craft beer bars.
Darling Harbour – Darling Harbour provides a lively waterfront atmosphere packed with bars, restaurants and attractions. By day it’s very popular for sightseeing and waterside walks; by night it comes alive with outdoor dining and harbour views. For players looking to unwind after a long session at the tables, it’s one of the city’s most enjoyable evening destinations.
Paddington – Finally, there’s Paddington, one of Sydney’s most attractive inner-city suburbs. Famous for its elegant Victorian terrace houses, leafy streets and upmarket boutiques, it’s home to the renowned Paddington Markets (open daily from 10am to 4pm) and offers a more relaxed, village-like feel despite being only minutes from the city centre.
Together, these neighbourhoods reveal why Sydney consistently ranks among the world’s most desirable cities to live. Beyond the iconic harbour and beaches lies a collection of vibrant districts, each with its own personality, ensuring there’s always something new to discover between tourneys or cash games!
Where to stay!
We have some fabulous discount rates for top hotels near the Irish Open Sydney at the Poker Palace. From just A$215 per night at the Novotel Sydney Cabramatta and A$184 per night at the Sydney Mercure Liverpool, we have you covered! Just check out hotels story for full details.
What to pack!
With daytime temperatures averaging 22°C, falling to around 12° at night, the usual holiday gear will see you through your visit to Sydney, including a light jacket and hoodie for evenings. It’s vital that you use a high SPF sunscreen as, even in Springtime, the Australian sun is strong and it’s easy to burn. The dress code for the Poker Palace follows Club Marconi’s ‘smart-casual’ recommendation so shorts are fine, singlets are not. And remember air conditioning can make things a bit chilly when you’re indoors.
