Pope Benedict XVI will enjoy a three-day holiday at a secret location in or around Sydney in the run-up to the city's World Youth Day celebrations.

The short break is intended to give the 81-year-old pontiff time to recover from his long-haul flight to Australia before officiating at the massive religious event.

Archbishop of Sydney, Cardinal George Pell, today announced Pope Benedict  is expected to arrive in Sydney on Sunday, July 13, ahead of the official start of WYD activities on July 15.

He will have three engagement-free days to recuperate from the lengthy flight from Italy and prepare for his gruelling World Youth Day schedule.

"This will be the longest journey Pope Benedict has undertaken," Cardinal Pell said. "He will rest up for three days... in an undisclosed location."

'Serene, beautiful location'

WYD organiser Bishop Anthony Fisher said the Catholic Church was delighted the Pope was coming early.

He declined to reveal where he would be staying, but said it would be in a location which would show Australia in its best light.

"We want to make sure we find a place for him that is serene and beautiful, gives him a real Aussie experience and gives him privacy during that time," Bishop Fisher said.

The Catholic Church will underwrite the cost of the Pope's extended stay, which he is taking from his annual leave.

Pope Benedict will be officially welcomed to Sydney in a harbourside ceremony on July 17 and will take part in WYD events until July 20.