The biscuit connection in Australia's historical seaport, Newcastle

The port city has an interesting history, and you can learn about some of it at the Newcastle Museum. — Photos: SANDIP HOR

One of the top 10 most liveable cities in the world, Sydney, finds a mandatory place in the itinerary of anyone planning a trip to Australia, and the harbour city hardly disappoints anyone who touches its shores.

Home to over five million people, this high-energy city offers plenty of things to do and see beyond taking selfies with the iconic Opera House and the Harbour Bridge in the background. Some visitors, after exploring these key attractions, prefer to spend a few days at a relatively quieter and less crowded but interesting destination, not too far from Sydney. Port city Newcastle, just 160km north of the city, fits their purpose most appropriately.