Christmas is the best time to be in Sydney. There are festive markets to shop from, dazzling light displays to see and glittering holiday installations to discover. Some of our favourite Christmas trees will soon start popping up around town as we inch closer to the holiday season. Here are some of our favourites to see around Sydney in 2023.
1. Martin Place Christmas Tree
Sydney’s most iconic and photographed tree serves as the ideal backdrop for any Christmas photo. It’s also the tallest tree in NSW covered from top to bottom in hundreds and thousands of LEDs, a giant colour-changing star and over 300 baubles. Plus there are Christmas carols in the evening which add to the festive vibes. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the huge Martin Place Christmas Market which is bringing heaps of festive treats, gifts, food and more to the city.
2. QVB
Right around the corner is another iconic Sydndye Christmas tree. The tree in the Queen Victoria Building stands 24 metres tall across 3 floors, under the famous QVB Dome. It’s also the largest indoor Christmas tree in Australia. This year, they’ve unveiled a sparkling new Christmas tree with an indigenous collaboration of First Nations artists from Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative. Read all about the QVB’s Christmas program here.
3. The Rocks
The Rocks dresses in its Christmas best with a lovely miniature Christmas village, giant snow globes and festive markets taking over its cobblestone streets. It’s usually home to a huge seven-metre-tall Christmas tree decked up with decorations and fairy lights. It’s hard to miss with its classic gold, silver and champagne hues and sparkling gold star.
4. Fullerton Hotel
The Fullerton Hotel Christmas Tree is pretty unique because it’s literally covered in hundreds of teddy bears making it a delightful photo op for young and old alike. Find the 5-metre tall Christmas tree in the lobby of the CBD institution adorned by their limited-edition Fullerton Santa bears, glossy baubles and festive decor.
5. Customs House Circular Quay
Right outside the heritage-listed museum space and commercial building, you’ll find a Christmas tree featuring classic red and gold hues and an abundance of festive ornaments. The CBD holiday mainstay is a delight with its traditional decorations and prime location. You can also make a beeline to this huge French Christmas market around the corner for cheesy treats, live music and shopping while you’re at it.
6. Central Station
Central Station is the largest and busiest railway station in Australia. If you slow down for a second and manage to escape the crowd, you’ll find a trio of Christmas trees in the middle of the bustling spot. The heritage-listed railway station located in the centre of Sydney is home to 3 classic Christmas trees, varying in size and covered in tinsels and garlands.
7. Manly Corso
The bustling beachfront Manly Corso is especially gorgeous during Christmas with a towering 8.5 metre tall Christmas tree plus markets, decorations and festive flags throughout the Northern Beaches spot. Read all about Christmas festivities in the Northern Beaches.
9. Four Seasons Hotel
An underrated gem in Sydney is the Christmas tree at the Four Seasons Hotel in The Rocks decked out with a traditional gold and green palette. The extravagant tree also features red baubles and garlands.