Cheap Flights to J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport

Discover J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney

Flying to the town of Sydney, Canada will allow you to take full advantage of the spectacular Cabot Trail and Cape Breton Island in the province of Nova Scotia. This is a lovely community with lots of restaurants, bars and pubs to dine in, and some fantastic summer festivals, like the Celtic Colours International Festival.

Things to do in Sydney, Canada

Most people that journey to Sydney base themselves in this town so they can explore Cape Breton. However, do not miss out on a chance to get to know this town, as the capital of this region for over 200 years, you can find lots of historical attractions that chart the past of pioneers of this region.  

There are lots of excellent walking tours that will take you past the Cotti and Jost houses, which now double as museums, and the lovely St. Patrick’s for a look into Sydney in days gone by. There is also the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, which can boast being one of the largest historical reconstructions in the country. And for an insight into the indigenous culture of Sydney, you must visit the Mebertou Heritage Park, which offers interactive and educational experiences for its guests.  

Then just out of downtown, there is the Cape Breton Miner’s Museum, situated in Glace Bay, which will take you on a journey into the area’s industry which pays tribute to the many men and women who contributed to the town’s growth.  

Best time to visit Sydney, Canada

• The best time to plan a trip to Sydney is for the northern hemisphere’s summer, in the months of June through to August. You can expect pleasant temperatures averaging 23°C, and you’ll also find this is when most of the festivals are in full swing.  
• Winter in Nova Scotia is not for the faint of heart; expect prices to be low, but the temperature hovering at around -1°C. 

Best time to book

• For a flight to Canada from Australia, look for flights 28 weeks before you want to leave.  

Expect to pay

• Canadian Dollar (CAD). 
• The typical cost of a cappuccino in Sydney is $3.70 ($3.75). 

Arriving in Sydney, Canada by plane

• The JA Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport (YQY) is the main transit hub for Sydney, Nova Scotia. Air Canada regularly operates services to and from YQY. There is also a smaller airline called St. Pierre, which runs flights out to its namesake frequently.  
• The airport is only 20 minutes outside downtown, and you can find a deli and free WiFi throughout the terminal building.  
• There are no nonstop flights from Australia to Nova Scotia. It is likely you will have stopover in Toronto (YYZ) before making your way to Cape Breton. 

Visa requirements

• Australians are eligible for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) if they are coming into Canada via air. You can look up information on how to apply through the Canadian government website, here.  

Transportation to city centre

• Taking a taxi into Sydney will come to around 30CAD ($32).  
• If you want to rent a car, you can do so using Skyscanner’s car hire tool or organise one at the airport. If you’d rather forego a car, you can sort out an airport transfer through our website.   

Where to stay in Sydney, Canada

• Sydney is small, and so accommodation options are littered throughout the town, though you’ll find everything is within a decent walking distance. Most options are situated around downtown.  
• If you want a little glamour, then organise a stay at one of the waterfront hotels.  

Useful tips before you go

• If you’re spending the whole day touring, pack a sweet punch by grabbing some homemade fudge at Cape Breton Fudge Co. for a real treat!