New South Wales
Anchored by the iconic city of Sydney, New South Wales is home to over 8 million people. New South Wales captivates visitors with its breathtaking blend of natural wonders and vibrant city life with a cultural tapestry that weaves Aboriginal heritage with multicultural influences.
Experience world-class shopping in Sydney’s CBD or take a day trip and stand in awe of the ancient beauty of the Blue Mountains. Travelling inland, you’ll find rainforests, thundering waterfalls, glittering snowfields and the Outback filled with a vastness that seems to stretch on forever. Down at the ocean, you can choose from hundreds of pristine beaches from Sydney’s iconic locations, down the South Coast, to the Central Coast and all the way north to Byron Bay, in a state that has it all.
With excellent public transport connecting its attractions, Sydney provides visitors with comfortable transport options ranging from a few dollars per ride on public transport to fleets of taxis and Uber rides.
Tap on and tap off with your mobile device
Get to places quicker. Just grab your phone and step out the door because you don’t have to stress about carrying an extra physical Card or remember to top up frequently. Add your American Express® Card to Apple Pay®, Google Wallet, or Samsung Pay, then tap on and off with your mobile device, just like you use your Card.
Sydney
Framed in millions of photographs by its iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House, Sydney is a city where Eastern and Western cultures harmoniously intertwine. From golden sands to restaurants down historic laneways to world-class shopping, Sydney offers something for everyone.
Sydney is a city that effortlessly blends natural beauty, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks. A harmonious mix of sun-kissed beaches, cosmopolitan sophistication, and rich historical charm. From the iconic sails of the Sydney Opera House to the golden sands of Bondi Beach, the city offers a unique fusion of natural beauty and urban elegance.
Places to stay
Sydney is home to some of the world's finest hotels, from luxury harbourside accommodation to 5-star resorts, boutique hotels in trendy neighbourhoods, and everything in between. The world's leading brands are proud to showcase their finest hotels in the Harbour City for international travellers, regional tourists and business people, all in search of somewhere special.
Sydney is also home to many exceptional properties in the Fine Hotels +Resorts Collection, from the Ace Hotel, to Crown Towers Sydney, Four Seasons Hotel Sydney and Park Hyatt Sydney. Platinum Card Members enjoy access to elevated benefits at hotels in the collection.
Disclaimer: T&Cs apply.
Dining out
Expect the extraordinary in Sydney’s restaurant landscape. Sydney's cultural richness reflects its diverse heritage, where modern Australian cuisine blends Asian influences with fresh local produce in world-class restaurants and bustling markets. Asian standouts prevail in Chinatown, or try Chin Chin or China Doll. For a unique upscale experience, choose Quay overlooking the iconic Opera House.
As part of your Platinum® Card Global Dining Credit benefit, we’ve curated a selection of over 2000+ restaurants in 16 countries for you to explore. Take a look at our list of culinary highlights and create your next memorable experience. Exclusions, T&Cs apply.
T&Cs and exclusions apply. Offer end date is 31 December 2025.
Shopping
Shopping enthusiasts will find their favourite luxury brands at specialist stores, at Westfield Sydney and the Queen Victoria Building, while Paddington Markets and The Rocks showcase unique Australian designs and souvenirs. Sydney offers a vibrant shopping scene from high-end fashion to unique vintage treasures. Westfield Sydney is home to the world’s best luxury brands, while the nearby Queen Victoria Building and Strand Arcade both house a mix of international brands and local artisans in stunning architectural settings.
Oxford Street, Paddington showcases the best Australian designer brands while Paddington Markets and The Rocks offer unique Australian designs and souvenirs.
Disclaimer: T&Cs apply.
Entertainment
Australians have a passion for sport, with a calendar that is full 52 weeks of the year. Modern arenas provide the setting for entertainment featuring world-class artists and shows. The Opera House is a must-see on every itinerary, with other options ranging from pub-style live music to on-trend nightclubs.
From iconic performances at the Sydney Opera House to dazzling light displays during Vivid Sydney, the city pulses with world-class entertainment. Explore The Rocks' historic pubs, enjoy live music, or catch a show in Darling Harbour. Whether it's rooftop bars, waterfront festivals, or a major sporting event, Sydney offers unforgettable experiences for every taste.
Getting around
With excellent public transport connecting its attractions, Sydney provides visitors with comfortable transport options that range from a few dollars per ride to bespoke limousine transfers. Taxis, Uber, trams, trains, buses and ferries combine to create a network that will get you where you want to be, fast and efficiently and at a reasonable cost.
American Express Cards are welcomed across private and public transport networks, and you can tap your Card or mobile device for a hassle-free travel experience.
Amex acceptance
194,000 Merchants were added to the American Express network in New South Wales in 2024*, meaning more places to shop, dine out and stay. Amex Cards are accepted widely across hotels, restaurants, shopping outlets and transport, meaning more “Yes” in the places you spend the most.
*Source: Based on American Express Merchant locations setup between January 2024 and December 2024, including through payment facilitators and OptBlue Sellers.
Useful tips
The sun in Sydney is exceptionally strong. Always wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat when outdoors.
Be aware of the power of the sea when swimming at Sydney’s many beaches. Always swim between the red and yellow flags at beaches protected by lifeguards.
Sydney Water is safe to drink and has a clean and refreshing taste. Water fountains are numerous, so you can fill water bottles and stay hydrated in all weather.
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia. A tip of up to 10% would be a guideline in the case of exceptional service or to show appreciation.
There are many Asian groceries and restaurants in suburbs like Haymarket, Chatswood, Hurstville and Eastwood.
Shop Small
Look for the “Shop Small” sticker at shops and restaurants or find participating Merchants on our map located here.