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Best Time to Visit Australia

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Spring and Fall/Autumn in Australia Summer in Australia Monthly activities and tourists Seasonal guide to prices Travel companies in Australia FAQ Australia is a must-visit destination at any time of year, with its sun-kissed beaches, lush rainforests and bustling cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Without a doubt, the best time to visit Australia is during its spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). These shoulder seasons offer mild temperatures, smaller crowds, and give you the opportunity to experience the full splendor of Australia's natural wonders and urban delights. From witnessing the spectacular bloom of wildflowers to embracing the outdoor vibe of iconic cities, every moment is unforgettable in this vast country.

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Best time to visit Australia: Spring (September to November) and Fall (March to May)

Top things to do and see in australia during spring and fall.

Great Barrier Reef

A must for any trip to Australia, dive into the extraordinary underwater spectacle of the Great Barrier Reef.  

Melbourne’s marketplaces

Melbourne is renowned for its food scene. Unravel the flavors of Australia with a culinary tour through Melbourne's bustling Queen Victoria Market.

Uluru sunset

Experience the spiritual heart of Australia with an Uluru sunset tour, watching the monolith transition through a spectrum of fiery hues – a truly unforgettable experience.

Three essentials to pack for your Australia trip during spring and fall

Sun protection.

Even in spring and fall, it’s essential to bring broad-spectrum sunscreen and a sturdy hat to shield against the vigorous Australian sun.

Layered clothing

Opt for layers to adapt to the day-night temperature shifts. A light jacket is essential for breezy evenings.

Comfortable footwear

Don’t forget to pack durable walking shoes for the city, hiking boots for trails, and sandals for beachside relaxation.

Best time to visit Australia: Summer (December to February)

Top things to do and see in australia in summer.

Iconic shores like Bondi and Gold Coast come alive with surfers and sun-seekers. Festival vibes: Revel in Australia’s summer festivals, from arts to music. Celebrate with the locals under the open skies.

Tasmania's wilderness

Journey into Tasmania's pristine national parks for verdant hiking trails and hidden waterfalls. The island is best experienced during the lushest time of the year.

Yarra Valley tasting

Australia is synonymous with wine. Taste the season's harvest with a wine tour in the Yarra Valley, sipping and savoring the region's finest.

Three essentials to pack for your Australia tour in summer

Swimwear essentials.

Australia is a nation of beach lovers, so pack several swimsuits for spontaneous dips into the blue ocean or poolside lounging.

The Australian sun is incredibly strong, so protect your eyes with UV-resistant sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to ward off the glare.

Insect repellent

With summer's warmth come insects, so be prepared with repellent to enjoy evenings uninterrupted.

Australia outside the peak times

Overview of activities and tourists in australia per month.

Each Australian season offers a whole host of adventures and local experiences for you to enjoy. Summer pulsates with festivals like Sydney's New Year's Eve fireworks, while fall's cooler days are perfect for Melbourne's Food and Wine Festival. Winter invites you to experience the magic of Vivid Sydney, and spring blossoms with floral displays at the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. Australia's calendar is jam-packed with varied events, embracing the joy of the now with every changing season.

Australia adventures

New South Wales

Western Australia

By experience

In-depth cultural

Hiking and trekking

The best time to visit Australia: A seasonal guide to prices

Navigating the ebb and flow of travel prices in Australia is key to planning the perfect adventure. High season, comprising the summer and festive months, sees higher accommodation and activity costs due to increased demand. Conversely, winter's low season offers more competitive pricing. The shoulder seasons strike the perfect balance between fewer crowds and moderate prices, allowing visitors to get the best value for their trip Down Under. High Season Overview (December to February) Peak prices : Expect to pay a premium for accommodation and tours, especially in coastal areas. Glorious weather : Enjoy long, sunny days perfect for beach outings and outdoor events. Festive vibes : The high season coincides with Christmas, New Year, and several music festivals. Ideal for : Sun-seekers, festival-goers, and those looking to bask in Australia's lively summer atmosphere. High Season Overview (December to February): Lower costs : Benefit from reduced prices on flights, accommodations, and possibly travel deals. Cooler climes : Enjoy milder weather and a crispness in the air, especially in southern regions. Indoor attractions : Take advantage of museums, galleries, and cultural events away from the chill. Ideal for : Budget-conscious travelers, winter sports enthusiasts, and those seeking a more tranquil travel experience. Shoulder Season Overview (March to May and September to November): Affordable rates : The shoulder season is often cheaper, meaning you can enjoy more attractive prices with the bonus of decent weather. Mild weather : Outside of the scorching summer, the shoulder season is more comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and enjoying the local life. Cultural events : The shoulder season is packed with festivals, meaning you have a great opportunity to experience the festivities like a local. Ideal for : Those looking for the best of both worlds: fewer crowds, reasonable prices, and good weather.

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What people ask about Australia

When is the best time to visit australia for good weather.

Australia's vastness means the climate is varied from region to region. But if you’re looking for idyllic weather it’s best to visit during spring or fall. You’ll enjoy mild temperatures ideal for exploring both cities and the great outdoors from September to November or March to May.

What's the tourist season in Australia?

Australia's tourist high season runs from December to February, coinciding with summer, Christmas holidays, and several major festivals, attracting the most visitors.

Are there any low season travel benefits in Australia?

Yes, the low season (June to August) offers reduced rates on flights and accommodations. Australian winter is the perfect time for enjoying winter sports in ski resorts or a serene Outback adventure.

When can I see Australia’s unique wildlife in their natural habitat?

Spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) offer the best opportunities for wildlife sightings, including the chance to watch whales migrating along the coast.

Is there a budget-friendly time to tour Australia?

Traveling during the low season (winter) is generally more budget-friendly, with many travel discounts available. Shoulder seasons also provide more value than the hot and busy summer months, with moderate pricing and pleasant weather.

What events should I plan my visit to Australia around?

Consider the Sydney Festival in January, Vivid Sydney in winter, the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival in March, or the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers in September. Each one offers a unique experience that you’re sure to treasure forever.

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23 of the best things to do in Australia

Aug 22, 2024 • 12 min read

From surf beaches to nude beaches and everything in between, here are the top things to do in Australia. 500px

An ancient land of diverse ecosystems, Australia is a nature lover’s wonderland.

From emerald rainforests and fragrant, eucalyptus-covered mountains, to golden ribbons of coastline  and woodland caves with Aboriginal art, there are countless ways to experience the beauty of this vast island nation. Even in urban settings, nature is never far away. Rainbow lorikeets squeal at sunset and crashing crystal waves will beckon you outdoors, if just to sip Aussie wine and scoff prawns.

Here are the best things to do in Australia.

1. Admire the Sydney Opera House from a different angle

Inspired by yacht sails and surrounded by water, the glorious Sydney Opera House is an Australian icon. The majestic curves dominate Sydney Harbour and look impressive from every angle. Stroll right around its base – something many don’t know you can do – then take a white-knuckle climb up the  Sydney Harbour Bridge with a guide to get a view of the Opera House. For a quiet perspective, kayak at dawn as the sun kisses the surrounding waters, or picnic under Moreton Bay fig trees in the crowd-free Tarpeian Lawn in the Botanic Gardens.

Local tip: Time your visit to watch  Badu Gili  – a light show of First Nations stories by Aboriginal artists – projected onto the Opera House. It has been such a hit since its launch in 2017, with a 2023 Celestial update, it has turned into a free nightly event.

2. Learn about bush food under the stars in the Red Centre 

The didgeridoo plays while the sun shimmers on the horizon and the earth’s rusty red intensifies. Then the Southern Cross and stars spill across the sky. Enjoy a tasting menu of native bush ingredients in the Northern Territory 's Red Centre alongside this remarkable backdrop.

3. Be dazzled by the marine life at Ningaloo Reef

The Great Barrier Reef has a lesser-known but equally dazzling sibling in Western Australia . Ningaloo Reef is a jeweled necklace of coral reef that fringes the coast, especially near Exmouth , making it very accessible for snorkelers. Nearby, blowholes force ocean water through sea caves and up to 20m (66ft) into the air. Ningaloo Reef is a magical place for swimming alongside whale sharks (the world’s largest fish) and migrating humpback whales (be sure to always give these wild creatures a lot of space).

Planning tip:  For children and those who don't want to swim, glass-bottom boats are a comfortable option to see manta rays and turtles gliding above the coral below.

4. Eat authentic world cuisine and new Australian fusions

Nearly half of all Australians were born overseas or have at least one parent born overseas. That’s why eating at restaurants in a Little Korea, Thai Town or Greek Precinct means you get the real deal. As always, it pays to window-shop for somewhere that has mostly local diners.

Modern Australian food highlights these world flavors through European cooking techniques, and its varied climate and nutrient-rich land produces top-quality fresh ingredients. Chefs are exploring pairing indigenous flavors, such as desert lime and bush banana (which resembles snow peas) with seafood, Australia’s specialty. This kind of dining is always the most exquisite with a beach, river or harbor view.

5. Walk at Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania

On first seeing Cradle Mountain , even Aussies might exclaim, “I didn’t know Australia could even look like this!” It’s true that the glacier-hewed crags and alpine heaths here have a touch of the Scandinavian. Cradle Mountain is all Australian though, with pristine ancient rainforests, mirrored lakes, and unique fauna isolated from the rest of the world.  Hiking newbies: head to Ronny Creek for a glimpse of wombats drinking from a creek in a buttongrass moorland. The terrain is flat, and most visitors head for Dove Lake, so you’ll have the marsupials (and shuttle bus stop) to yourself.

6. Watch baby penguins waddle 

The sun won't even be up yet, but it'll be worth it – and your heart might melt – when you witness little blue penguins waddling across the sand. Phillip Island is the most famous penguin site, but there are other islands and even secret spots in cities such as  Manly in Sydney and St Kilda in Melbourne. 

7. Learn to surf, or at least have a laugh trying

You might not ride a tube on your first lesson, but paddling and standing on a surfboard for one glorious moment before being dumped in a fizzle of white foam is an amazing feeling. Besides, getting water-confident will help you enjoy some of Australia’s nearly 12,000 beaches . When the water’s choppy, try sandboarding on dunes across the country, often in places with rich Aboriginal history, including Henty Dunes in Tasmania . 

Local tip: Want to learn more about the history of surf culture and the grassroots campaign by women surf pros to be recognized and celebrated in the sport? Check out the 2021 documentary  Girls Can't Surf . 

8. Join Sydney locals on the Bondi to Coogee walk

Hugging 6km (3.7 miles) of coast between two beaches, the clifftop walk from Bondi beach is saturated by blue skies and rolling ocean. No matter how many times you walk it, each turn is a delight: outdoor baths that glitter with crashing ocean waves; Gordon’s Bay, decorated with wooden boats; Waverley Cemetery with the most exclusive resting place in Australia; McIver’s Ladies Seawater Baths hewn from rock; and lounging locals at Tamarama, Clovelly, and Bronte beaches, each with their own personality . 

Local tip: Stop at the Clovelly Bowling Green for a beer and a barefoot game of lawn bowls overlooking the ocean – you just need to sign in as a guest. The walk gets steep after this, so it may be tempting to stay and linger.

9. Feel ancient Australia in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory

Kakadu is the perfect kind of middle of nowhere. It’s the wild Australia that you might have already daydreamed about. Waterfalls bloom from rock, prehistoric crocodiles thrash the wetlands, lorikeets sing, and Aboriginal guides bring ancient rock art to life. As you trek between gorges and woodlands or hike for views over endless treetops, your worries seem far away. 

Planning tip: Helicopter or fixed-wing scenic flights are a wonderful way to get a sense of the sheer scale and beauty of Kakadu. Note that flights are only available over Jim Jim Falls in the wet season (November to April). The Traditional Owners request that the skies are rested in the dry season (May to October).

10. Celebrate Pride at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade 

It might have started off as a protest, but today, over 45 years later, Australia’s largest LGBTIQ+ Pride parties all night. What makes the parade the highlight is the 200 flamboyant floats. The vehicles are decorated 12 months ahead, and dancers practice weekly to sashay for that one night. Grab a stool or milk crate to watch from the sidelines and prepare to shout “Happy Mardi Gras!” to strangers. But the nightlife excels  all year round in Sydney , with cozy, queer-friendly pubs including the Bearded Tit . 

11. Explore Uluru with an Aboriginal guide

Uluru has been a sacred site to the Anangu, the area’s Aboriginal people, for 10,000 years. It’s definitely worth engaging an Anangu guide for the Kuniya walk to the Mutitjulu Waterhole at the base of Uluru to hear ancient stories, decipher rock art, and appreciate the significance of Uluru’s towering slopes.

Planning tip: Go at dawn to beat the heat, then go back at night for the incredible immersive drone and laser-light show,  Wintjiri Wiṟu .

12. Spot native wildlife on Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Kangaroo Island is a montage of Australian nature on show. In one day, you can glimpse koalas snoozing in eucalyptus trees, echidnas waddling, and kangaroos and wallabies sunbathing. In between, walk under the towering stone fossils of Remarkable Rocks and dip your toes in the clear blue waters of a parade of beaches you'll have all to yourself (except those guarded by sea lions).

13. Cheer on Aussie sports from the Dunny Derby to AFL

Sport is everywhere in Australia, from international matches to the local Dunny Derby (it’s a toilet race). Even if you are not a sports fan, seeing a big match taps you into the Australian psyche at its most excitable. Women’s sport is finally getting the attention it deserves in Australia and there’s a good turnout for women’s cricket and Australian Football League (AFL) games these days. Sydney will host the 2027 Netball World Cup, and netball might make it into the Brisbane 2032 Olympics lineup.

Planning tip:  Plan ahead for tickets to see the Australian Open tennis in Melbourne or the World Surfing Championships on the Gold Coast . 

14. Get naked at a nudist beach

Aussies aren’t that fussed about nudity or what adults do in their own time. Feel the sun bathe every inch of your body at one of Australia’s community-minded nudist beaches . Don’t forget sunscreen; the rays are mighty here and burnt bits aren’t fun.

15. Spot a koala 

Who doesn’t love a cuddly koala? Just look at their high-on-eucalyptus faces! However, cuddling koalas is no longer allowed in most states, even in controlled environments like wildlife parks, as it's really not . Instead, you can spot one high up in the street trees of rural towns around Australia’s southeast coast. As well as admiring the wildlife , look out for opportunities to learn about Australian bush conservation and how people can help wildlife recover after bushfires.

16. Cycle Victoria’s High Country on dedicated rail trails

Thank lockdowns for the cycling rebirth in Australia. The Victorian High Country has rewarding views at every turn. Ribbons of roads and disused railway lines (now reinvented as cycling rail trails) roll out alongside olive groves, tree ferns, and wineries between alpine valleys and lake swims. There are long stretches of flats for families and casual riders, and mountain trails right into the bush for the adrenaline-chasing cyclist.

Detour: The Victorian High Country boomed with gold in the 1850s, and there are traces of this wealth – and the Chinese miners who sought it – in the towns along the way. Eldorado has a gold museum, while Yackandandah has both quaint tinned-roofed buildings and a historic cemetery dedicated to Chinese gold miners.

17. Admire Aboriginal rock art

Art has been essential to cultural life through 65,000 years of Aboriginal Australian history. Seeing Aboriginal art is a launchpad to conversations about contemporary Australia for its First Nations people. Learn more about the significance of rock art at the Northern Territory 's Arnhem Land and the Quinkan rock galleries in Queensland; the emergence of dot paintings on canvas in the 1970s in the Northern Territory; or the storytelling of contemporary works displayed at city-based museums, such as the Yolngu women’s bark paintings at the NGV in Melbourne.

18. Drink in Australia's varied wine regions

Australia is blessed with clean water and rich soil to produce some top wines. Winery hopping lets you feel the sun and country air that fed the grapes while you taste test. Try old vine Shiraz in the Barossa Valley (South Australia) or a cabernet sauvignon from the Margaret River region (Western Australia), chased down with chardonnay in the Hunter Valley (New South Wales) and finishing with a pinot noir in the Yarra Valley (Victoria) or a sweet Riesling in Tasmania. You’ll need a few weeks to do it all, and every one of these wine regions is worth visiting for more than just its grapes.

Local tip: Include a gourmet farm-to-table lunch right in the vineyards, with produce freshly plucked from the garden. If you’re booze-free, try some non-alcoholic wine, which is becoming easy to find in Australia.

19. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef sustainably

The Great Barrier Reef is a masterpiece of thousands of smaller reefs, coral, and islands. It’s a world must-see, not just for Australia. There’s no way to recommend a free-for-all visit; climate change has caused mass coral bleaching, and tourism can be damaging. Yet there are still ways to visit in a sustainable way , as well to contribute to its conservation, such as by participating in a citizen science or reef restoration program facilitated by local tour operators. Don't forget to wear reef-safe sunscreen. 

There is so much to see: turquoise waters resplendent with sea turtles floating above you and a kaleidoscope of coral beneath you; manta rays, dugongs, and a treasure trove of fish so diverse that there are species yet to be discovered. It’s enough to turn you into an advocate for marine conservation.

20. Try Aussie snacks

Australian food is world food, but there are some must-try Aussie staples that locals still adore. You might wince, but at least sample some yeasty, salty Vegemite spread thinly on toast. A smoother brunch is smashed avocado toast, an Australian invention; or a Thai curry pie, a spin on a classic Australian meat pie; and a sausage sizzle, the Aussie barbecue version of a hot dog.

You’re most likely to bring home Tim Tams, the chocolate-covered biscuits that Aussies longingly sob for when overseas. Australia’s greatest export to the coffee world is the flat white (don't tell New Zealand), which is most famously fine-tuned in Melbourne.

21. Stay out all night in Melbourne

In central Melbourne , the street-art-decorated laneways hide a society of wonderfully grungy cocktail bars and clubs. The famously moody weather of the city makes Melbourne an excellent place to go out while being entertained indoors. For interesting drinking, live music, historic theatres, and the Melbourne International Comedy and Film Festivals, the city dominates the country’s nightlife calendar.

Planning tip: If you're traveling with children and want a night out with the kids, check out the Victoria Market Night Market . There's one in summer and one in winter with street food stalls, buskers, live music, and local maker markets. Alternatively, many summer sporting events that run into the dark hours, like Friday night football, are also pretty child friendly.

22. Learn about Australia’s migration story

Australia is a vibrant nation of migrants. The Immigration Museum in Melbourne and the Migration Museum in Adelaide bring out the colorful threads of this timeline through memorabilia, voices, artifacts, and photos. They celebrate the positive elements in this story and are worth a visit for a deeper understanding of modern Australia.

23. Get used to sharing Australia with crocs, spiders and sharks

It’s true, Australia has some top-of-the-food-chain creatures. You have to go out of your way to bump into them, though. Wildlife parks are a (safe) way for kids – and adults – to get their thrills being splashed by a jumping crocodile, wincing at a funnel-web spider or black snake being milked of venom, and spotting the deadly spurs on a platypus. An even mightier heart thumper is cage diving at eye and teeth level with a great white shark.

Local tip: Obviously, you don't want to meet deadly Australian animals in the wild. Always ask locals for advice on where it is safe to swim or walk, heed warning signs before heading out, and know what to do in case of an emergency.

This article was first published Aug 20, 2021 and updated Aug 22, 2024.

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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

25 Best Places to Visit in Australia

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on June 17, 2024

Located between the Pacific and Indian Oceans, Australia is the world’s largest island and its smallest continent. There’s room to move in the Land Down Under, and with so many sights to discover and enjoy, there’s a great incentive to go on a walkabout adventure. Whether exploring the traditional lifestyle of the nation’s Aboriginal people, relaxing on a sun-kissed beach or reveling the night away in a city hot spot, Australia has something special to offer every visitor.

With amazing national parks dotted around the country and some fantastic islands, visitors to Australia can be off exploring the delights of Tasmania one minute and Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks the next.

On top of this, the beautiful beaches and turquoise waters that line its shores are home to the jaw-dropping Great Barrier Reef; one of the miracles of the natural world and one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. With loads of great things to see and do, you’ll have your job cut out trying to fit everything into your trip!

25. Canberra [SEE MAP]

Having started life as a planned city back in 1913, Australia’s capital Canberra is slowly but surely growing into a lively and lovely place. Affectionately (and at times derisively) nicknamed the ‘bush capital’, the city lies amidst stunning nature reserves and low-lying mountain ranges in the north of the Australian Capital Territory.

Once the home solely of politicians and civil servants, the now thriving metropolis is home to world-class museums, art galleries, and national monuments. All kinds of shops, restaurants and bars abound, and its large student body means there’s a pounding nightlife scene. Despite its youth, the city has lots of interesting historical sights; many of these relate to its parliament and governmental institutions.

Due to its remote and rural setting, the city is also a fantastic place for exploring the great outdoors. Its nearby nature reserves are wonderful to hike and cycle around, as are Canberra’s numerous parks, gardens, and human-made lakes.

24. The Pinnacles [SEE MAP]

Located within Nambung National Park, The Pinnacles can be found not far from the small town of Cervantes in Western Australia. Due to their remote setting, the spectacular limestone formations largely remained unknown until 1967, when a reserve was formed to protect the prominent pillars.

Rising dramatically out of the desert floor, The Pinnacles resemble weathered tombstones and number in the thousands. Together, they make for an incredible sight as sand from the coastal dunes constantly blows through the otherworldly looking landscape.

While debates are ongoing as to how their distinctive shapes formed, it is generally agreed that they are made out of the limestone from seashells as the region used to be submerged millennia ago. Now, The Pinnacles make for a popular tourist attraction. Western grey kangaroos can often be spotted between them, as well as the occasional emu, dingo, and honey possum.

23. Gold Coast [SEE MAP]

Blessed with year-round warm weather and sunny skies, Australia’s glimmering Gold Coast lies just to the south of Brisbane on Queensland’s southeastern coastline. The coastal city is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country thanks to its lively yet laid-back vibe and alluring sun, sea, and surf.

Surfers Paradise is the area most people flock to. ‘The capital of the Gold Coast’ is home to large shopping malls and pounding nightclubs as well as countless restaurants, bars, and accommodation options. Glittering high rises tower above its expansive beach, which is great for sunbathing, swimming and watersports.

While it is often called a tacky tourist-trap, the Gold Coast has loads going for it, with beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets a given. In addition, it also boasts exhilarating amusement parks, water parks, and nature reserves, while its surf breaks are out of this world.

22. Alice Springs [SEE MAP]

Located almost slap bang in the center of Australia, Alice Springs lies in the Northern Territory’s endless outback, more than 1,500 kilometers from the nearest city. While it certainly takes some getting to, the remote rural town is perfectly placed for exploring the Red Centre.

Although there is not much going on in the town itself, Alice Springs is a great place to visit if you want to delve into the Aborigines’ rich history, heritage, and culture. It is home to a number of superb museums and indigenous Australian art galleries, as well as a large Aboriginal population. In addition, it has plenty of restaurants, bars, and hotels for visitors to choose from.

Its main draw, however, are the awe-inspiring desert landscapes, rock formations, and gorges that lie all around it. While the iconic Uluru attracts the most visitors with its distinctive ruddy hue and hulking great landmass, the Kata Tjuta rock formations also make for a spectacular sight, as do the gaping chasms of Kings Canyon.

21. Karijini National Park [SEE MAP]

The second-largest national park in Western Australia, Karijini lies about a thousand kilometers to the north of the state’s capital, Perth. Centered around the Hamersley Ranges, it is very mountainous and known for the gorgeous gorges, slot canyons, and waterfalls that dot its confines.

Rising above the dark red hues of its rugged landscapes are the three highest peaks in the west of Australia. These make for some fantastic hiking, as do the narrow gorges and precipitous chasms snaking beneath them. Punctuating its semi-arid terrain are a series of hidden water holes and glittering waterfalls, which are amazingly refreshing to swim or bathe in after a dusty walk.

Besides the stunning scenery, Karijini National Park is home to more than 800 different plant species, as well as lots of incredible wildlife. While exploring the nature reserve, visitors may catch a glimpse of wallabies, echidnas, and red kangaroos.

20. Darwin [SEE MAP]

Hugging the coastline of Australia’s Top End, the region encompassing the Northern Territory, Darwin has long been the most international of the country’s major cities. Its close proximity to other countries in the Indian Ocean has made the city a transportation hub since its earliest days. Devastated during World War II and again in 1974 when struck by Cyclone Tracy, Darwin is a resilient town with a spirit that can’t be defeated. Today, the city of around 75,000 people is a popular holiday destination.

Darwin’s main natural attraction is its wide sandy beach lined with open-air beer bars, seafood restaurants and multinational shops. Twice the size of Sydney Harbor, Darwin Harbor attracts visitors too.

Cruises lasting two to 12 hours are available for explorations of the region’s mangrove forest. In the evening, locals and visitors stroll down the city’s esplanade to enjoy films at the Deckchair Cinema, a large open-air theater located on the banks of harbor.

Darwin is also the hub for tours to famous Kakadu National Park as well as Litchfield National Park and Katherine Gorge. Whether watching crocodiles cavort in Crocodylus Park, cruising to the Aboriginal-owned Tiwi Islands or relaxing on the beach, there’s always something new to experience in tropical Darwin.

19. Daintree Rainforest [SEE MAP]

Lying on the northeast coast of Australia in a national park of the same name, Daintree is one of the world’s oldest and most diverse tropical rainforests. Located in the state of Queensland, its fantastic fauna and flora and ancient ecosystems are incredible to explore, and home to lots of wildlife.

Daintree doesn’t consist solely of lush and verdant rainforest, but also includes rugged mountains, teeming rivers, rich coral reef systems, and beautiful beaches. Of these, Cape Tribulation is considered to boast some of the best white sandy beaches in Australia.

Best accessed from Cairns, around a three-hour drive away, Daintree Rainforest is a nature lover’s delight and has lots of fun outdoor activities for visitors to try. Besides hiking amid the dense undergrowth and going bird or wildlife watching, popular pastimes include paddleboarding, ziplining through the canopy, and cruising along one of its rivers.

18. Byron Bay [SEE MAP]

The easternmost point of Australia’s mainland, Byron Bay lies in the state of New South Wales, just off the Pacific Highway that connects Brisbane to Sydney. Famed for its idyllic beaches, fantastic surf spots, and lovely laid-back lifestyle, the beautiful beachside town is one of the nation’s most popular tourist destinations.

While the town itself hosts a number of arts and culture festivals throughout the year, as well as weekly farmers’ markets, most people visit for its scenic setting and wealth of outdoor activities. Besides lounging on any one of its wonderful beaches, visitors can enjoy scuba diving, surfing, and whale-watching offshore, with skydiving and yoga also popular.

Due to Byron Bay’s alternative vibe and rugged beauty, everyone from ageing hippies and artists to surfers, business people, and families have migrated to the town. As such, lots of trendy bars and restaurants have sprung up, as well as little art galleries and all types of accommodation options.

17. Fraser Island [SEE MAP]

Separated from the mainland of Australia by the Great Sandy Strait, Fraser Island lies just off the Queensland’s southeast coast. Stretching for over a hundred kilometers, the world’s largest sand island is a popular place to visit due to its beautiful scenery and outstanding natural sights.

While idyllic white sandy beaches and crumbling sand cliffs line its shores, lush rainforests, dense mangroves, and epic coastal dune systems can be found dotted here and there. In addition, more than a hundred glittering freshwater lakes punctuate its picture-perfect landscapes, with Lake Wabby and Lake MacKenzie two of the most popular.

Much of the stunning scenery lies within Great Sandy National Park, which is home to all kinds of birds and mammals, such as dingoes, dolphins, wallabies, and whales. Besides wildlife watching, Fraser Island also has lots of great hiking, swimming, and watersports for visitors to enjoy, and camping beneath the stars is always a memorable experience.

16. Broome [SEE MAP]

Perched on a small peninsula that juts into the Indian Ocean, the small, scenic and secluded town of Broome is located on the northern coast of Western Australia. Lying more than 2,000 kilometers from both Darwin and Perth, the two nearest cities, the remote beach resort and pearling town acts as a gateway to the region’s riches.

The most popular place to relax and unwind in Broome is Cable Beach, which is widely thought to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia. Besides sunbathing on its white sands and bathing in its turquoise waters, visitors can enjoy cocktails and spa packages at its luxury resorts, as well as sunset camel rides along the beach.

More active holidaymakers can visit the fantastic rock formations at Entrance Point and the red cliffs and dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point; both of which lie nearby. Further afield are the breathtaking Horizontal Falls, with other wonderfully wild and untouched landscapes dotted about the Dampier Peninsula and the Kimberley Region.

15. Cairns [SEE MAP]

For its tropical climate, easy-going ambiance and close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is one of Australia’s most popular vacation destinations. Located on the northwest corner of Australia, Cairns is a provincial but stylish city with a population of around 150,000 people.

The city is bordered by mountains and the Coral Sea and is surrounded by sugar cane plantations and rainforest. There are enough good bars, restaurants and shopping options to keep visitors entertained before they head off into the stunning nature nearby.

Instead of a beach, Cairns features a saltwater lagoon in the center of the city. The Cairns Esplanade along the shore is lined with trendy cafés, bars and boutiques. Numerous beaches are located just to the north of the city and are easily accessible by bus or car. The City Botanic Gardens features plants used by Aboriginal people. Opposite the gardens, a boardwalk leads visitors through the rainforest to the Centenary Lakes, a habitat for crocodiles.

Opportunities for adventure sports abound in Cairns and range from snorkeling and scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef to skydiving and whitewater rafting. The Daintree Rainforest to the north of Cairns is considered the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, and a hike along an aerial walkway over the forest is an experience that many visitors won’t want to miss.

14. Kings Canyon [SEE MAP]

Lying in Watarrka National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory, Kings Canyon is sure to impress with its staggering size, scale, and stunning scenery. One of the region’s main attractions, the gaping gorge was formed more than 400 million years ago as the ruddy-colored sandstone eroded.

Cutting through the desolate desert landscapes, the colossal canyon’s walls tower over a hundred meters in height, with a small creek and sparse vegetation down below. There are jagged cliffs, interesting rock formations, and beautiful scenery to spy, whether you’re strolling in the shade or hiking along its rim.

For the Luritja people, Kings Canyon has long been a source of water and a place of refuge and respite from the searing sun. It is still a sacred site to this day. Due to the infernal heat and cruel climate, it is well advised to bring lots of water with you when hiking or climbing around the canyon.

13. Adelaide [SEE MAP]

Situated on the eastern shores of Gulf St Vincent, Adelaide is the capital of South Australia. Adelaide is Australia’s fifth largest city, with a population of over 1.2 million. More than three quarters of South Australians live in the Adelaide metropolitan area.

The city is located on a plain between the rolling Adelaide Hills and the Gulf and is bordered by many of Australia’s famous wine regions. The Barossa Valley and Clare Valley regions lie to the north, the McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek regions to the south and the cooler Adelaide Hills region to the east.

Nicknamed ‘the city of churches’, the lofty spires dotted about here and there add to the picturesque nature of Adelaide and there are lots of nice parks and green spaces for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.

Proximity to premium wine and food growing regions, as well as waves of immigration from Europe and Asia have created a unique multicultural gourmet food and café culture in the city. This culture is supported by Adelaide’s arts festivals held in March including the Adelaide Festival and the Adelaide Fringe Festival.

12. Blue Mountains [SEE MAP]

One of the most accessible and awe-inspiring of Australia’s natural wonders, the Blue Mountains lie just to the west of Sydney in New South Wales. Sprawling over a vast area, its majestic mountains, plateaus, and escarpments are lovely to explore and make for a popular day trip or weekend away.

Named after the misty haze that the oil from its endless eucalyptus trees give off, the mountains are home to lots of unspoiled nature and spectacular scenery. A myriad of well-maintained hiking trails and mountain bike paths weave their way here and there, with stunning views to be enjoyed from Echo Point and Govett’s Leap.

As the mountains have long been the home of the Gundungurra and Darug peoples, they are also a great place to learn more about Aboriginal history and culture. In addition, lots of charming towns and villages dot the land. Springwood, for example, is known for its art galleries, while Leura boasts cosy craft shops and sophisticated restaurants.

11. Great Ocean Road [SEE MAP]

Winding along the south coast of the state of Victoria, the 243 kilometer-long Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most scenic drives. Completed in 1932, the highway was built by soldiers returning from WWI and is dedicated to those who lost their lives.

Running from the seaside resort town of Torquay near Melbourne to the small and quiet Allansford, the road passes epic limestone sea stacks, secluded coves, and spectacular surf spots. At times, it meanders through pockets of rainforest, fertile winelands, and endless eucalyptus forests, with sleepy seaside towns dotted here and there.

Renowned for its incredible surfing, Bell’s Beach is one of the most popular attractions, along with Great Otway National Park, which is home to lots of spectacular natural beauty. The Twelve Apostles make for a stunning sight: the crumbling sea stacks are constantly pummeled by the rough and treacherous waters of the mighty Southern Ocean.

10. Perth [SEE MAP]

The capital of Western Australia, Perth is very isolated from the rest of the country, yet is routinely considered one of the most livable cities in the world thanks to its laidback vibe, fantastic cultural sites, and a wide range of things to do.

Many of Perth’s attractions are located near the water, whether it’s the beaches stretching along the Sunset Coast to the north or the parks, walks and picnic spots edging the Swan River. Fremantle, known as “Freo” by the locals, is the city’s port, a bustling marina that has recently gained a reputation as a haven for artists and students. Cottesloe Beach, just a few miles north of Fremantle, is Perth’s most popular beach.

One of the largest city parks in the world, the thousand-acre Kings Park encompasses Mount Eliza, a hill overlooking the city, and boasts a botanical garden with aerial walkways as well as the State War Memorial park. The Perth Zoo offers visitors up-close encounters with kangaroos and other animals native to Australia. Ferry service in Perth takes visitors to car-free Rottnest Island or the closer Penguin Island to watch daily feedings of the flightless birds.

Whether swimming with dolphins, firing up a barbie on the river’s shoreline or exploring the Aquarium of Western Australia, the country’s largest aquarium, aquatic adventures abound in sun-and-sea-loving Perth.

9. Kangaroo Island [SEE MAP]

The third-largest island in the country, Kangaroo Island lies just off the coast of South Australia, around a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jarvis. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the state, its delightfully untouched landscapes are home to incredible scenery and an abundance of wildlife.

Everything from huge dunes and towering cliffs to large caves and remarkable rock formations can be found in its numerous nature reserves. These are home to echidnas, koalas, and kangaroos, while penguins, sea lions and dolphins can be spotted offshore. Its diverse landscapes lend themselves perfectly to all kinds of outdoor activities, with hiking, sandboarding and scuba diving popular.

Besides its ample natural riches, wildlife, and recreation opportunities, Kangaroo Island also boasts lots of delicious local produce and fine wines for visitors to try. These can be sampled at any one of its four main towns or at the small farms and wineries that dot the island.

8. Brisbane [SEE MAP]

A popular tourist destination, Brisbane is a lively, dynamic place that is bathed in beautiful sunshine year-round. It has a population of about 2 million people, making it the third-largest city in Australia, after Sydney and Melbourne. Located in the Sunshine State, many visitors stop by on their way to the fantastic resorts and beaches that lie to its north and south.

Set alongside the Brisbane River, the city’s fantastic climate means that outdoor activities are very popular here; you can take your pick from a huge catalog, with biking, climbing, and hiking featuring prominently. A fun and friendly city, Brisbane’s vibrant music scene has made it one of the music capitals of the world and there are lots of venues in town where you can enjoy a great show. With loads of brilliant restaurants and bars for you to choose from, Brisbane is not to be missed.

7. Tasmania [SEE MAP]

The island state of Tasmania may be isolated from the rest of the country but it still remains one of the best places to visit in Australia; almost half of its area is protected as the government looks to preserve the natural riches.

With desolate wilderness and alpine plateaus interspersed with stunning white beaches, waterfalls, and forests, exploring its terrain is simply mesmerizing. Taking a boat trip along its craggy coast is equally rewarding and you can even see dolphins, penguins, and seals along the way.

With lots of great local produce, eating and drinking in the capital city of Hobart is an absolute pleasure and the restaurants and bars are divine. The island also hosts an eclectic range of great festivals throughout the year, where you can enjoy local beer and wine or arts and music events.

6. Whitsunday Islands [SEE MAP]

One of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, the Whitsunday Islands lie scattered off Queensland’s northeastern coast, surrounded by warm and inviting aquamarine waters. As it is part of the Great Barrier Reef, most of the archipelago lies within national parks, so stunning scenery and picture-perfect beaches abound.

Due to the abundance of underwater riches and colorful coral reefs, the Whitsundays are a great place to go snorkeling and scuba diving. Sailing around its 74 islands and islets is also very popular, as is lounging on its sun-kissed sands. In Whitehaven Beach, the archipelago boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

While the Whitsunday Islands are primarily known for their outstanding natural beauty, they are also remarkably home to some of the oldest Aboriginal archaeological sites in the country. As the idyllic islands are now mainly uninhabited and undeveloped with only a few resorts and campsites to be found here and there, it is best to arrange tours and activities in Airlie Beach on the mainland.

5. Melbourne [SEE MAP]

The capital of the state of Victoria, Melbourne is Australia’s second most populated city. Located near the southeastern tip of Australia on the large natural bay of Port Phillip, Melbourne is considered the nation’s cultural capital as well as an important port. Due to its high quality of life, citizens from around the world have flocked to the streets. Its multicultural population is reflected in the delicious cuisine and the unique neighborhoods that make it such a fascinating place to explore.

Melbourne’s City Center district boasts the most attractions , including the city’s most recognizable landmark, the Flinders Street Railway Station. The multiple clocks hanging over the Edwardian Era station’s entrance is a popular meeting spot. The skyscraper Eureka Tower features an 88th-floor observation platform, the highest in the southern hemisphere. Visitors can step out onto a glass-enclosed compartment for panoramic views of the bay and the green Dandenong mountain range beyond.

In the Carlton district, visitors can explore the southern hemisphere’s largest museum. The Melbourne Museum showcases the nation’s rich social history, from its indigenous cultures to its fascination with football and horse racing, and has extensive exhibits illustrating Australia’s natural history as well.

Visitors looking for outdoor activities can enjoy the city’s parklands, many of which are shaded by large, mature trees. For swimming and sunbathing, Melbourne’s bayside beaches are ideal. For a retro feel, Brighton Beach features colorful bathing huts. St. Kilda Beach is one of the most popular beaches, both for its swimming and for the clubs and restaurants that line the shore. From dawn to dusk, visitors to Melbourne will never run out of exciting things to see and do.

4. Kakadu National Park [SEE MAP]

Occupied by Aboriginal people for over 40,000 years, Kakadu National Park has over five thousand ancient rock art sites which are fascinating to visit. It is a place of immense cultural and natural significance. The park is huge and contains some stunning natural sights which make it well worth a visit; the Kakadu Escarpment is particularly breathtaking.

With diverse ecosystems contained within the park’s boundaries, you can be hiking through deserted sandstone escarpments one minute and bathing in waterfalls and pools the next, before later on learning about some of the ancient rock paintings. While it can get very popular, Kakadu’s huge area means that you can easily enjoy all the park has to offer in peace and quiet if you step off the beaten path a little.

3. Great Barrier Reef [SEE MAP]

The largest coral reef system on the face of the earth, the Great Barrier Reef is simply colossal. Located in the Coral Sea off the coast of Australia’s state of Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef encompasses a huge area of more than 2,900 coral reefs and hundreds of islands and cays. Formed by millions of living organisms over a period of millions of years, the Reef is now one of the world’s most diverse and complex ecosystems.

While always known and used by the Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Australian peoples, the Reef today is protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It is home to a remarkable array of marine life including 1500 fish species and 360 corals in addition to various species of whales, dolphins, marine turtles, sea snakes and birds, which breed among the small islands.

The best way to explore the Reef is by one of the numerous boat cruises that run along the northern coast of Queensland. The town of Cairns is regarded as the main gateway to the Reef, but other towns such as Townsville, Port Douglas, Yeppoon, Mission Beach and Cooktown also offer cruise operations.

Ranging from single day trips to multiple day voyages, these boat cruises usually anchor at certain stops to allow for snorkeling and diving. Other options for experiencing the Reef include underwater observatories, glass-bottomed boat tours and helicopter flights.

2. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park [SEE MAP]

World famous, spectacular Uluru is instantly recognizable due to its ruddy red hue; it is one of Australia’s most prominent landmarks. The immense rock is incredible to visit and the main reason the national park is such a popular destination. Its grandeur and uniqueness live long in the memory of those who gaze upon it. While Uluru is the main draw, the equally mesmerizing rock formations of Kata Tijuta are fantastic to wander around, and there are lots of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Owned by the Anangu Aboriginal people, the site is of great cultural and spiritual significance to them; you can learn more about their way of life at the brilliant cultural center. With lots of great walks, bike rides and tours, the astounding beauty of this national park really is awe-inspiring.

1. Sydney [SEE MAP]

Almost picture perfect, Sydney is a fantastic city with a lot going for it. A modern city with a long history, Sydney is defined by its scenic harbor. The region’s first inhabitants lived along the harbor’s bank for thousands of years. The harbor was also the landing site for convicts sent to Australia during the 1780s. Today, ferries take visitors for cruises under the famed Sydney Harbor Bridge and past the iconic Sydney Opera House.

Adventurous travelers can take a ferry to Manly Wharf where they can rent kayaks to paddle the inlets of Sydney Harbor National Park or sign up for surf classes at Manly Beach. The Federation Cliff Walk is a 5-km (3-mile) long walkway that starts at the Raleigh Reserve Park, providing spectacular views of the sea, harbor and the Macquarie Lighthouse, Australia’s first and longest operating lighthouse.

Sydney’s beaches are the perfect place to spend a warm summer day, to swim or just relax on the sands. The most popular are Bondi Beach, Manly and Coogee, although many others have their own charms.

See also: Where to Stay in Sydney

No visit to Sydney is complete without a tour of the Sydney Opera House. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and completed in 1973, the sailing ship-inspired performing arts complex is considered one of the world’s most distinctive architectural structures.

For adventurous visitors to Sydney, a heart-thumping climb on the harbor bridge is a must-do activity. For others, shopping at the historic Queen Victoria Building, hitting the clubs and restaurants the in Rocks district and visiting the world-class Taronga Zoo are can’t-miss activities. Visitors can count on cosmopolitan Sydney to accommodate every taste.

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Reader interactions.

December 22, 2019 at 11:08 am

I had the opportunity to visit Australia in November 2019 and I will say Brisbane tops them all

July 27, 2017 at 10:36 am

Loved Steve Irwin and his daughter Bindi so we are going to Brisbane to specifically see their zoo. So hope it is worth the trip.

July 21, 2017 at 4:30 am

I really love Sydney its a very nice place and I really love the island over there

January 12, 2017 at 11:24 pm

Hopefully everyone will get their act straight and help keep the Great Barrier Reef from getting destroyed. I’m still hoping that I can get to experience this beautiful gift of nature before climate change and pollution destroys it!

September 29, 2016 at 11:05 pm

I highly recommend the Great Barrier Reef. Fly to Cairns and split time between Port Douglas and Cairns. You also have direct access to the Rain Forest. This is an amazing part of the world and a must see location.

January 16, 2016 at 6:21 pm

@Pete75 What area would you suggest for our first trip to Australia? We love to sight see and have outdoor adventures like snorkeling, rock jumping, zip lining and are up for new fun adventures too. We are planning our trip possibly late June. Any advice is appreciated

January 10, 2016 at 10:05 am

@deepak The Gold Coast? Are you kidding? The Gold Coast is the worst place in Australia by a country mile! It is a plastic and concrete abomination to be avoided at all costs.

August 12, 2015 at 5:41 am

I am surprised Goldcoast is not on the list and places like Alice Spring and Brisbane are within top 10. I think number 1 should be Gold Coast followed by Sydney and Melbourne.

August 1, 2015 at 4:45 pm

In 2013 I had the oportunity to visit Australia for the first time. What a good surprise I had! Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Heron Island. So many beautiful places! In march 2016 I’m going again and Hobart is in my list!

May 7, 2015 at 8:35 am

Tassie definitely needs to have more recognition. It is a part of Australia that is very different from the rest, especially other parts of Tassie, not just it’s capital, Hobart. Poor tassie always gets cut out from all those Australian souvenirs where it is in the shape of Australia, as it is an island state and often they just don’t include it inside!

August 4, 2014 at 9:33 pm

YAYAYYAYYA!!! Adelaide made the list and its al the top!! South australia is a beautiful state, most people disregard it and dont bother with it but it is a really nice city and the “outback” like the FLinders Ranges are beautiful!

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6 of the best Australian cities to visit and when to go

Don’t let the journey time from europe stop you from booking – delightful cities and natural wonders await down under, article bookmarked.

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The great, southern land of Australia has long seduced tourists from all over the world, conjuring dreams of sun-drenched cities and long golden coastlines. The mere mention of Oz can spark envy for many, especially those living in places with less-than-pleasant weather.

This vast country has a wealth of fantastic places to visit, with a geographical, cultural and historical variety befitting its enormous size. Sydney and its world-famous landmarks remain the postcard image of the country, but cities like Melbourne are gaining ground with a slew of cultural offerings, picture-perfect beaches and characterful neighbourhoods.

Slightly less common with visitors looking for a city break are Cairns, Adelaide and Perth, though they continue to welcome more and more tourists, who come to experience verdant wine country, sporting events and cultural festivals, along with the wonders of Australia’s nature, from the enormous Outback to the striking Great Barrier Reef.

If you’re planning a trip to this part of the Southern Hemisphere, we’ve got you covered. Here is a list of the best cities to visit Down Under, and the best time of year to travel to them.

Sydney typifies the laid-back nature of Australia, from the busy sands of Bondi Beach to the serene waters of the harbour. These locations, together with the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, are what many outside of Australia will picture when they think of the country, and a ferry tour around the area is a great way to see as much as possible (one of the more popular routes is from Circular Quay to Manly).

The city’s main neighbourhoods, including popular spots like Surrey Hills, the Rocks, Woolloomooloo and Newtown, also carry that easy-going, friendly Aussie energy as well as various attractions worth a visit, such as the Art Gallery of NSW, the Royal Botanic Garden and the Australian Museum. For a spot of quieter relaxation, leave Bondi behind and check out the beaches of Manly, Bronte or Balmoral.

When to visit

Sydney’s high season falls between December and February, combining warm beach days with sporting events and plenty of celebrations (including Christmas and New Year’s Eve). March to May is the city’s autumn period, where temperatures remain high but manageable enough to explore in comfort – think average highs between 23C and 26C. There are plenty of important occasions that would may want to coincide your visit with, such as Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

Read more on Australia travel :

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Often referred to as the country’s capital of culture, Melbourne is a place where you can find highlights around every corner, from street art to hipster restaurants worth queuing for. There’s an abundance ways to fill your time during a city break, from wandering the magnificent National Gallery to catching some tennis at the Australian Open.

Heavily influenced by Europe, today Melbourne is a city whose multicultural nature is visibly reflected in its architecture, from the skyscrapers of the Central Business District to historic structures like Flinders Street Station and a slew of Victorian buildings. Its streets hide a plethora of nightlife spots, and it has a beachside hang-out in the shape of St Kilda.

Summer in Melbourne begins around the same time as in Sydney, making January and February the warmest months – temperatures can easily exceed 30C, though average highs are around 27C. For something more manageable, visit in the summer shoulder season, in March or April, to experience balmy temperatures and less crowds (as well as a slew of events, like the Melbourne Grand Prix and the International Comedy Festival).

The main gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the beaches of Far North Queensland, Cairns is a city that continues to grow in popularity as tourists seek out its tropical weather and unforgettable natural sites.

Top attractions include the Botanic Gardens, Esplanade and Boardwalk, with lovely suburban areas including Port Douglas, Palm Cove and Atherton Tablelands. Nevertheless, the Barrier Reef is the undeniable star of the area, with dozens of tours available for snorkelling and scuba diving across coral gardens with turtles and a host of tropical fish.

While the reef steals the headlines, Cairns and the surrounding area are home to other natural landmarks such as the Wet Tropics rainforest or Cape Tribulation, where trees give way meets coral reefs. There are plenty of great beaches, too, including Trinity, Ellis, Clifton and the Thala Beach Nature Reserve – there’s a reason why the city has labelled itself the “Jewel of the North”.

For those wanting to explore the Great Barrier Reef, avoid visiting between October and May if you want to stay out of stinger season (though companies provide you with necessary equipment if you do want to dive during these months). Winter is the best time to come; June to August is in the middle of dry season and still offers highs around 26C. Peak season runs from around May until late September.

Originally occupied by the Kaurna people, Adelaide has a colourful history that remains little-known by visitors who choose Sydney or Melbourne. Spread out along the banks of the Torrens River, this picturesque, easy-going hub is smaller but still contains a wealth of things to do, as well as acting as the gateway to the wine regions of Barrossa Valley and, further north, Uluru (Ayers Rock).

The city streets are characterised by their Victorian architecture and stone buildings, with heritage buildings and botanic gardens around North Terrace that are particularly charming. Cafe culture and al fresco dining is best sampled in Gouger Street, Moonta Street or Rundle Street, and cultural highlights include the South Australian Museum and the Adelaide Fringe Festival, the second largest in the world after Edinburgh’s. For a foray into nature, visit the Morialta Conservation Park, or swim with dolphins in the suburb of Glenelg.

Like much of the rest of the country, Adelaide welcomes its warmest weather in January and February, with average temperatures sitting at a pleasant 24C. Unlike some other cities, summer highs aren’t sweltering, and a range of events – from the Adelaide Fringe to international cricket – can be enjoyed alongside days on the beach.

Brisbane is a popular destination year-round, with perhaps the best weather at all times in the country, and a place where the golden sand of the inner-city beaches sit in front of towering skyscrapers. The Brisbane River snakes across the city on its way to the coast, its banks home to the surprisingly large central business district, the buildings of which have come to define the city skyline.

The river separates the city into a series of neighbourhoods, such as the family-friendly South Bank, the trendy New Farm or Fortitude Valley, home to the best nightlife. Brisbane is home to the Queensland Cultural Centre and the Queensland Art Gallery, and will presumably receive plenty of attention as it gears up to host the Olympics in 2032.

For some nature lovers, kayaking along the river or relaxing on Streets Beach may suffice, though for those who want to venture out of the city there are options to explore Mooreton Bay, Mount Coot-Tha or the Glasshouse Mountains.

Sub-tropical Brisbane rarely enters single-digit temperatures even in its winter. This does mean that temperatures in summer can be sweltering – sometimes rising into the 40s – so high season here is actually in the autumn and winter, between May and September. Daytime temperatures will peak around 26C, but evenings are cooler at around 12C. This period is also when the majority of the city’s main festivals and events are held.

Perth is one of the most isolated cities on Earth, and it doesn’t attract the same number of visitors as Sydney or Melbourne. This, combined with a smaller population, means a city far less crowded than others in Australia, giving it a pleasant air of calm.

The city’s location on the edge of the Indian Ocean blesses it with a host of beautiful beaches, with sweeping stretches of untouched gold sands at Cottesloe, Swanbourne and Mettams Pool. For nature in the city, the Blackwall Reach Reserve, on the Swan River, is home to wild dolphins, and the 1,000-acre Kings Park is the best place to walk, picnic or enjoy sunset views over the city.

Popular areas for exploring, dining and discovering the arts include the recently renovated Cathedral Square, Elizabeth Quay and the cross-river port city of Fremantle. Cultural and historical highlights include the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia and Fremantle Prison, while wine tourism is also popular due to the city’s location between the Swan Valley and Margaret River vineyards.

Summer in Perth is very warm, with average highs around 30C, and plenty of people – Aussies and international visitors alike – head west in January and February. This is the best time for going to the beach, whether surfing, snorkelling or lounging, and for attending cultural events, but with the small possibility of days in the 40s, some may prefer to visit in the spring shoulder season of September to November.

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30 of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Australia

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: July 30, 2024

Australia is huge! Seeing it all in one trip probably won’t happen for most people. If you are like us, you’ll have to go back again and again. These iconic places to visit in Australia might help you know where to start when you travel next to the land down under. 

Table of Contents

The Best Places to Visit in Australia

When you plan your trip, you must choose what you want to see and where you want to go. If you do have the time to drive around the continent, spending a year or so in a campervan , you may be able to check off all the iconic places to see in Australia that cannot be missed.

It may be the world’s smallest continent, but it’s ranked number 6 in the world by country size. So take your time, enjoy the ride, and check out all the amazing things to see in Australia. From Dreamtime walks to the heavenly apostles, the landmarks of Australia are awe-inspiring.

1. Great Barrier Reef

It may be Australia’s most famous attraction but with good reason! The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world.

Stretching 3000 km across the coast of Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef is a diver’s dream. Whether you are an avid scuba diver , casual snorkeller, or first-time underwater newbie, there is something for everyone at this popular tourist destination.

You don’t need to go scuba diving to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef. A scenic flight is a spectacular way to see the wonder of the world. You can go snorkeling or swimming on one of the platforms in the ocean and you can even take a discovery dive.

You can book a liveaboard dive boat vacation to go out to the most remote dive sites of the reef, take a helicopter tour over the impressive waters, or try your hand at diving with a helmet. One of our favorite experiences.

2. Daintree Rainforest

Located in Queensland , the Daintree Rainforest is the world’s oldest tropical rainforest and one of Australia’s natural wonders. At 180 million years old, it covers 1200 square km, and visitors can take a Dreamtime walk with an Indigenous guide from the Kuku Yalanji Tribe.

Stay in the rainforest at Silky Oak Lodge and relax in your treehouse listening to the sounds of the ancient forest. You can also do some paddleboarding on the Mossman River. Don’t worry, the local saltwater crocodiles don’t come that far inland.

This rainforest is filled with beauty with waterfalls, plenty of hiking trails and outdoor activities.

• Fun Fact : Daintree Rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is twice as old as the Amazon Rainforest

3. Fraser Island

Fraser Island , the world’s largest sand island, is one of the coolest Australian places to visit in Australia because of its 75-mile-long beach! It’s one of the longest beaches in the world. Rent a four-wheel drive truck in the town of Noosa and start your adventure to one of the wildest drives you’ll ever have. It’s an island with sand dunes, dingos, tidal pools, and shipwrecks.

Oh and one more thing, drivers share the beach with airplanes! Yes, there is an airport right on the sandy shores. The white sand beaches of this island will take your breath away as you drive its coastline. There are hotels and resorts that you can book on the island to spend more time exploring. Read all about our trip at Fraser Island Tour – A 4X4 Adventure

4. Whitsundays

The Whitsundays are a group of 75 islands off the coast of Queensland. When visiting the Great Barrier Reef, you must spend some time here. These islands are located right in the heart of it! Beautiful white sandy beaches swirl effortlessly with the turquoise water.

There are luxury resorts, sailing and snorkeling. A must stop is the largest and most famous of all the islands, Whitehaven Beach with pristine white sands made of silica beads stretching for 7km. Because this sand is made up of silica, it doesn’t get too hot making it the perfect beach for a walk.

5. Port Douglas

Port Douglas is a laid-back resort town in Queensland’s Tropical North. It’s the jumping off point for visiting the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest making it the perfect spot to spend a few days relaxing and exploring the beauty of Australia. Located along Australia’s most scenic coast, a road trip to Port Douglas is a must. See our scenic flight from Port Douglas over the Great Barrier Reef.

Known as the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is located about 1,700 kilometers north of Brisbane. Cairns is surrounded by incredible natural attractions, making it a prime destination for nature lovers. Cairns enjoys a tropical climate and is nestled between the Coral Sea and the rainforests of the Wet Tropics, offering a unique blend of marine and terrestrial attractions.

As a destination, Cairns offers a multitude of reasons for tourists to visit. As well as its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef — a must-visit for snorkelers, divers, and marine life enthusiasts — Cairns also provides easy access to the Daintree Rainforest. You can take a scenic railway journey to the village of Kuranda, experience indigenous culture at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, or simply enjoy Cairns’ excellent restaurants, bustling markets, and lively nightlife. The city’s Esplanade, with its saltwater swimming lagoon and waterfront boardwalk, is another major drawcard.

7. Gold Coast

Home to the world-famous Surfer’s Paradise, the Gold Coast of Australia offers an endless stretch of beach with outstanding surf breaks. Highrise resorts and condos line the sand while beachgoers enjoy the many eateries and dining options.

You can enjoy surf lessons or you can simply rent a bike and ride to Currumbin Beach and Burleigh Head to watch the pro surfers catch a wave. For a great view, go to the Skypoint Observation Deck to take it all in from above.

8. Twelve Apostles

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most popular day trips from Melbourne. A Drive to the coast takes you to the incredible Twelve Apostles .

For us, the Twelve Apostles were the most awe-inspiring of places to visit in Australia. But to really experience this rugged coast, you must do the Great Ocean Walk. It takes you along the coastal route that is impossible to see from a car. If you can, make sure to take a helicopter ride over the Apostles to really take in its beauty.

9. Melbourne

Melbourne is quite possibly the coolest city in Australia. I know it was our favorite . It has been named the most livable city in the world, and it’s a great place for tourists too! Highlights include Queen Victoria Market, The Arcades and Secret Lanes, Eureka Square, Federation Skydeck and Graffiti Lane.

South Australia

10. kangaroo island.

Kangaroo Island is located off the coast of South Australia and is an incredible place in Australia to tour for a few days. It is a spectacular wildlife haven for kangaroos, koalas, sea lions, seals, and pelicans. There is even a Birds of Prey rehabilitation center where you can watch a show and learn about birds that are indigenous to the continent.

The landscape is beautiful here and at sunset, you must see the Remarkables; granite boulders have been sculpted into unique formations over 500 million years. Kangaroo Island is also home to what is considered by many as the best beach in Australia.

11. Wilpena Pound

Wilpena Pound is a giant 80 Square kilometer amphitheater of rock that is simply astounding. Located in the Flinders Ranges of South Australia, it’s a 450 km drive from Adelaide. A good place to stay is inside the National Park, which is set within the backdrop of the mountains. Flinders Ranges is 100 million years old, and a tour of the ancient landscape is truly fascinating.

It is also one of the best places in Australia to spy the endangered yellow-footed rock wallaby. Check out our visit to the Flinders Ranges and Wilpena Pound .

12. Barossa Valley

Barossa Valley is home to Australia’s most famous vineyards. Here you can visit wineries such as Wolf Blass, Lehmann and Penfolds just to name a few. A tour through the valley will take you through gorgeous countryside and it is best to hire a driver so you can truly experience all the wines of Barossa. Located an hour outside Adelaide, it is a beautiful region in which to spend a few days.

South Australia boasts many Australia’s best wine regions outside of the Barossa Valley including, MaLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills and Clare Valley.

13. Burra Homestead

Made famous by Midnight Oil’s record album cover Diesel and Dust, the Burra Homestead has become an iconic stop for photographers in Australia. The homestead was abandoned by homesteaders years ago and still stands alone and empty by the side of the road. It’s easy to miss, and we made quite the detour just to see it. Being huge fans of music, we just had to see this with our own eyes.

14. Lake Gairdner

Lake Gairdner is a Salt Lake in the Gawler Ranges of South Australia. It feels as if you have stepped on another planet when you visit the lake. The lake itself is an impressive sprawl of white landscape but being surrounded by the red hills of the Gawler Ranges make for the picture-perfect spot.

New South Wales

15. sydney opera house.

It’s definitely Australia’s most iconic building, and seeing the Sydney Opera House dominate the Sydney Skyline does not disappoint. The Sydney Opera House opened in 1973 and has become Australia’s top tourist attraction.

We never went inside the opera house when visiting Sydney, but walking around it and taking in the views from the waterfront will remind you why this is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.

• Side Note : I hear they are fixing the acoustics of the Opera House, so perhaps when we are back in Sydney, we’ll catch a concert.

16. Blue Mountains

Located just 50km (32 miles) from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are another famous view that attracts numerous visitors. The Three Sisters are the most iconic view of the Blue Mountains. Echo Point lookout offers an impressive view of the three sisters overlooking the Jamison Valley.

17. Sydney Harbour Bridge

Next to the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is another of the city’s iconic landmarks. It connects the CBD to the North Shore and is the biggest steel bridge in the world.

If you really want a thrill, you should do the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb. We ended up doing the Harbour Bridge Climb in Brisbane which was awesome, but I wish we mustered up enough energy to include Sydney’s Bridge too!

18. Bondi Beach

No visit to Australia would be complete without a stop at Bondi Beach. Located just 7km from Sydney’s central business district, it is one of Australia’s most iconic and celebrated beaches.

The beach itself, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, is an irresistible attraction. Known for its reliable surf, Bondi Beach draws surfers from around the globe, while the wide sandy stretch also provides ample space for sunbathing, beach volleyball, or simply enjoying the ocean view. The Bondi Icebergs Pool, a stunning ocean pool at the southern end of the beach, offers a unique swimming experience, with the waves of the Pacific Ocean crashing over its sides.

Bondi Beach isn’t just about sand and surf; it’s also a hub for dining and shopping. Campbell Parade, the main street running parallel to the beach, is lined with trendy cafes, award-winning restaurants, and boutique stores. The beach is also the starting point for the scenic Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, which takes in some of Sydney’s most stunning ocean views.

19. Byron Bay

Nestled on the northeastern coast of northern New South Wales, Byron Bay artfully combines natural beauty with its laid-back culture. The Northern Rivers region, which includes Byron Bay, offers a variety of attractions, from stunning coastal views to charming inland villages. The town’s location, just about 800 kilometers north of Sydney and 170 kilometers south of Brisbane, Byron Bay is easily accessible from the major city centers. Framed by pristine, golden-sand beaches and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Byron Bay’s geography is spectacular.

Byron Bay isn’t just renowned for its captivating landscapes, if you’re an outdoor lover you can surf the world-class breaks, kayak with dolphins, or embark on a trek to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the bay.

The Outback

20. south, west, north, and east australia.

The Outback covers a huge expanse of Australia touching nearly every state of the country. When visiting Australia, you cannot miss a trip to the Outback. We took a multi-day journey in South Australia with Gawler Ranges Wilderness Safaris and had the chance to truly experience all the wonders of Australia’s famous Outback.

From salt lakes to red sands and rock formations, you truly feel like a pioneer. While it is dry and arid, people do live on the Outback and there are homesteaders raising sheep among the kangaroos and emus.

Northern Territory

21. uluru-kata tjuta national parks.

One of the most famous sites of the Outback is Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) near Alice Springs. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Uluru is sacred to the indigenous people of the area. Standing 348 meters high, it is an imposing site in contrast to the flat desert landscape. Spanning 3 1/2 km long and nearly 2 km wide, it is a popular stop on overland tours.

22. Kata Tjuta

The massive sandstone domes of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) are particularly striking, rising majestically from the flat desert landscape and changing hues with the passing of the day. The park offers numerous walking trails, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging hikes, that give visitors the opportunity to explore these wonders up close and experience the area’s rich biodiversity.

The cultural tours led by the Anangu guides provide deep insights into the ancient traditions, stories, and customs associated with these sacred sites, making a visit to the park a truly enriching experience.

23. Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Top End region of the Northern Territory. Roughly 170 kilometers southeast of Darwin, the park covers an impressive area of around 20,000 square kilometers, making it the largest national park in Australia and about half the size of Switzerland.

The park is known for its diverse landscapes that range from wetlands and floodplains, to rugged escarpments and arid regions, creating a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. It’s home to over 280 bird species, numerous reptiles, and a large variety of fish.

Kakadu is also rich in Aboriginal culture, with rock art sites dating back thousands of years. Ubirr and Nourlangie are among the most visited rock art sites, where visitors can learn about the ancient indigenous culture and the spiritual connection to the land.

There are numerous guided tours available to explore the park and many walking trails that range from easy strolls to challenging hikes. One can also take a scenic flight over the park or a river cruise to witness its grandeur from different perspectives.

Perched at the top end of Australia’s Northern Territory, Darwin is a captivating blend of modernity and untamed wilderness. This cosmopolitan city, strategically located on the Timor Sea offers the chance to immerse in indigenous culture and heritage. Nature lovers will be drawn to the city’s proximity to world-renowned national parks like Kakadu and Litchfield, which are brimming with diverse wildlife, stunning waterfalls, and dramatic landscapes.

For those in search of adventure, there’s an array of activities including cruising along the Mary River wetlands to spot saltwater crocodiles. And history buffs will be interested in diving into the city’s turbulent history at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.

Western Australia

25. hamelin bay stingrays.

According to Mr. and Mrs. Bucketlist, there is no better place to see stingrays than in Hamelin Bay. Located in the Margaret River Region, local stingrays frequent these waters to feed off local fishermen. The stingrays are so friendly, you can snorkel with them.

Plus, Hamelin Bay is picture perfect, so it’s a beautiful place to spend some time. Read about all the wildlife encounters you can have in Western Australia here  by Mr. and Mrs. Bucketlist

26. Pinnacles

If you are into unique landscapes, a visit to the Pinnacles of Nambung National Park is in order. Located about 200km from Western Australia’s capital, Perth, the Pinnacles are another one of those fascinating places to see in Australia.

The formations range to from heights of short stumps to pillars reaching 3 metres high, the Pinnacles are ancient formations formed when the landscape was underwater.

27. Cable Beach

Cable Beach is that place where you’ve seen all those images of camels walking in silhouette at sunset but probably never knew where it was. It isn’t Australia’s longest beach, but at 22km in length, it is nothing to sneeze at.

There are many tour companies that offer camel rides along the beach at sunset. Camels arrived in Australia from India in the 1800s to transport gear overland. The harsh Australian landscape proved to be a better environment for camels than horses and they helped shape the history of the continent.

28. Kimberly Region

The Kimberley region is one of Australia’s hidden treasures, located in the remote northern part of Western Australia. Another must-visit in Western Australia is the Great Sandy National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. This vast, rugged wilderness area spans over 420,000 square kilometers, stretching from Broome in the west to Kununurra and Lake Argyle in the east, and from the Timor Sea in the north to the Great Sandy and Tanami deserts in the south.

The Kimberley is an adventurer’s dream, offering a wealth of unique and exhilarating experiences. It’s known for its breathtaking landscapes, ranging from dramatic gorges and waterfalls to ancient rock formations and lush rainforests. One of the region’s most iconic destinations is the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park is known for its striking beehive-shaped towers. For those seeking aquatic adventures, there’s the opportunity to cruise the stunning Horizontal Falls or explore the bucolic waterways of the Ord River. The Kimberley is also steeped in indigenous history, with numerous sacred Aboriginal sites and some of the oldest rock art in the world.

29. Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island, affectionately known as “Rotto”, is a small island located just off the coast of Western Australia, about 19 kilometers west of Fremantle. It is easily accessible by a short ferry ride from Perth, the state’s capital, and serves as a popular holiday destination for locals and international tourists alike.

The island is renowned for its beautiful beaches and secluded coves, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. With its vehicle-free policy, cycling is a popular way to explore the island’s scenic paths and trails. One of the island’s most famous residents is the quokka, a small marsupial found only in Western Australia. These adorable creatures are known for their friendly demeanor and photogenic smiles.

30. Wine Glass Bay

We haven’t been to Tasmania yet, but you cannot include an Australia Guide without mentioning Tasmania. We nearly went once two years ago and did a lot of research of top places to see in Tasmania. From Cradle Mountain to Hastings Caves and a chance to spy the Tasmanian Devil, it seems like the perfect off the beaten path destination.

We’ve had so many friends share their favourite places on Instagram, and the one place the stands out to us is Wine Glass Bay. We’re suckers for beautiful beaches.

The Last Word

And there you have it! A list of the most amazing places to visit in Australia as well as a few we have yet to explore, but have been on our list for years!

Like Canada, India, China and The United States and Russia, Australia is massive and you cannot see it all in a lifetime, but it is certainly fun to try!

Read More About Australia:

• The Best of Kangaroo Island
• G’Day Outrageous Australian Stereotypes Debunked
• Where to Stay in Melbourne a Guide to the Best Neighbourhoods
• See our Full Australia Travel Guide for Travel Tips and Advice

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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27 thoughts on “30 of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Australia”

This engaging blog article from The Planet D showcases some of the best places to visit in Australia, providing an enticing glimpse into the country’s diverse landscapes and attractions. As an experienced traveler with a passion for exploring new destinations, I found this article to be both informative and inspiring. The authors’ firsthand experiences and stunning photography bring each location to life, offering valuable insights and practical tips for planning an unforgettable Australian adventure. From the bustling cities of Sydney and Melbourne to the remote beauty of the Outback and the pristine beaches of the Whitsunday Islands, this comprehensive guide caters to every traveler’s interests and preferences. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or tranquil escapes, this article serves as a valuable resource for planning your next trip to Australia.

Love seeing some of my favourite Western Australian locations included in this list! A day trip to Rottnest Island should be on everyone’s bucket list when visiting Perth especially.

Thank you for what you have shared with me. As an avid traveler, reading these tips will give you ideas for your upcoming trip to beautiful Australia.

Thanks for providing such a great post

Your work impress me to visit in Australia, I hope one day! Thanks a lot.

Great Country, with a big and beautiful city and yet also has this scenic view also. We have more options to go to Australia because we are of this beautiful scenery and also what you can get in the city. Thanks for sharing incredible posts that only a few know.

Wonderful word and amazing suff

I think that Australia is really a beautiful place to have your self-relaxed and just get lost in the beauty of nature. It is definitely on my bucket list.

Great cross section of the best places to see in Australia. Really relate to 7. Twelve Apostles! We drove a BMW 240i convertible (with the roof down) along the Great Ocean Road late last year. It’s a great way to experience this beautiful part of Australia.

I love this so much! I’m from Australia and always try to tell people that you’ll find the real beauty outside of the cities and these places are exactly what I mean. Cable beach is probably my favourite place on Earth and I love how you put the pinnacles in there too. This was a great read and 100% agree with everything said in it

Very iconic! Australia really one of the best country to travel because of it wonderful sites that will surely take your breath away.

Nice Narration. Australia is the best travel destination having lovely places all around. I went to Queenstown last year for the Christmas Holidays. Really Enjoyed a lot. Thanks for the nice info, I love to visit again

This is so amazing, I wish I could visit and see all of this wonderful site in Australia someday.

Yes you are right Australia is the most beautiful country here you find most amazing places

Australia – The place where Kangaroos live. These stunning pictures made me to go for this summer with my colleagues and friends. Thank you for Nice narration .

Hamelin Bay sounds like a dream. Australia tops my bucket list. Thanks for sharing

Hello, I’m Ellen Smith. I was reading this blog. This is a nice blog and Images are posted by you in this blog there’s nice. I think this is very usefull information for visit australia’s most iconic places.

The way you wrote everything that’s so good. Thanks for sharing this with us. Great information and explain everything properly about beautiful places.

I only managed to visit about 3-4 places from your list! I hope you haven’t been to all either 😉 Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef are definitely on my go-to list for next time!

This is such a detailed and exceptional list of places to visit in Australia, Dave and Deb! I hope that one day I’ll have a chance to explore each one of these places, especially Fraser Island. How many days would you recommend spending on Fraser Island?

It’s really awesome, I am planning a trip to Australia and by read your blog I have get complete knowledge of this place. I will must visit all these places

Australia located near from Indonesia but along this time, I only know Melbourne, I have not visit the places have You listed. it is amazing!

hope much sometime can visit those places.

Thank You for your information

Australia is a great place to spend holidays!! Awesome list of places in Australia. I think i need to visit all these places as all the places are looking very attractive. i can’t wait to go to this places! So stunning pictures you captured.

I like Uluru. It is very special

Thanks for sharing this post this is really very nice and amazing. I would love to explore Australia and Queenstown is my favourite place to explore. I have heard much about the Queenstown and just wanted to visit there.

hello thanks for the information and advice 🙂

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The most incredible places to visit in Australia that you can't miss

Not sure where to begin with the Great Southern Land? Here are the must-sees for 2024

Call us biased, but we reckon Australia is one of the most astonishing and varied places to explore on Earth. A sizeable place – (you know, continent-sized), it can be hard to know where to begin when it comes to working out how to tackle the Great Southern Land – but that's where we come in.

From turquoise beaches with sugar white sand, to ancient tropical rainforests, to flaming red deserts, to buzzy metropolitan cities, we've picked out the 25 most incredible places you should visit in Australia. 

No matter who you are, or what you like, rest assured – there's something on this list for everyone. 

RECOMMENDED: Follow the rainbow to Australia's most colourful landmarks.

Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Australia newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.  

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best places in Australia

Uluru and kata tjuta, nt.

The red centre in the Northern Territory is truly Australia's sacred heart, and nothing is quite so sacred or spectacular as Uluru, in Kata Tjuta National Park. On the ancestral lands of the  A n angu people, Uluru has had immense spiritual importance for Australia's First Nations people. In all types of light, weather and seasons, Uluru is magnificent. You can walk around its immense red base and hear stories from Indigenous guides – but climbing is very much not allowed. While you're there, drive 40 minutes to Kata Tjuta (formerly known as The Olgas) for another remarkable and magnificent red rock formation that's imbued with ancient secrets and deep spiritual meaning.  Considered a living, breathing landscape, Uluru and Kata Tjuta are places that will stay with you long after you've left.

Why go? Magical sunsets, guided Indigenous walks, impressive light shows

K'gari (Fraser Island), QLD

• Attractions

Spanning 123 kilometres in length, the World Heritage-listed K’gari isn’t just the largest sand island on Earth, but sparkles with the fourth most crystal-clear waters in Oceania. The adventures are endless here, both on and off the water. You can climb ancient sand dunes, swim in crystalline lakes, trek through tropical rainforests, and spot humpback whales and the world's largest purest colony of dingos. Plus, K'gari is wonderfully off-grid, so you can truly switch off during your stay.

Why go?  4WD driving, freshwater lake swims, ancient rainforest hikes, whale watching

Blue Mountains, NSW

A hop, skip and a jump west of Sydney lies the Blue Mountains region. Named for the mysterious blue mist (generated from the thousands of gum trees, actually) that hugs this immense landscape, this remarkably special spot manages to combine incredible nature with cosy eateries, impeccable accomodation  and delightful boutique shops. In summer, explore the region's many pristine waterholes and waterfalls, and in winter, rug up for cosy walks, followed by a meal out at one of these incredible restaurants.  Whether you like glow-worm grottos or day spas , this perfect weekend away from Sydney can be whatever you want it to be. 

Why go?  Bushwalks, waterfalls, stargazing, day spas

Exmouth & Ningaloo Reef, WA

The sleepy coastal town of Exmouth is adjacent to the Cape Range National Park and the 300 kilometre Ningaloo Reef – a region that is drop-dead gorgeous and brimming with vitality. Located about 1,270 kilometres north of Perth (around a 15-hour drive or two-hour flight to nearby Learmouth), Exmouth is a nature lover’s playground with one of the longest fringing reefs on the planet, meaning in many places the coral comes right up to the beach. You can swim with whale sharks (don’t worry, they’re harmless filter feeders that can grow up to 18 metres in length), spot a black-footed rock wallaby at Yardie Creek or take a guided walk through the fossil-crusted Mandu Mandu Gorge, which has been inhabited by humans for about 30,000 years.

Why go?  Swimming with whale shark, reef snorkelling, hiking

Kangaroo Island, SA

Recently named as the world's second-best 'must visit' region by Lonely Planet, Kangaroo Island (also known as  Karta Pintingga)  is pretty special. Full of pristine beaches, this open-air wildlife sanctuary is perfect for all those keen on seeing native Aussie animals at their happiest in the wild. With perfect beaches, seal colonies, cuddly koalas and a seriously delicious local food and wine scene, this third-largest island in Australia is a fail-safe place for good times. Plus, its home to a beach that took out Tourism Australia's prize for best beach in the nation in 2023 .

Why go? Native animal spotting, quiet beach walks,  sweeping ocean views, luxury resorts

Kakadu National Park, NT

A certified UNESCO World Heritage site, Kakadu National Park is certainly one of Australia’s most incredible national parks. The fringe of the park is about a two-hour drive from Darwin, where it sits on the traditional lands of the Bininj/Mungguy people. Pro tip: Kakadu is best explored at your own pace by car. It’s actually Australia’s largest national park (it covers more than 20,000 square kilometres), so you’ll need some time to discover it all properly. Take a peek at the 200 metre Jim Jim Falls waterfall; go for a swim at Gunlom, the crystal-clear infinity rock pool made famous in Crocodile Dundee ; hike your way through the 30-odd walking trails that sweep across Kakadu; or take your 4WD out for a spin towards the crown of the park, Jarrangbarnmi (also known as the stunning Koolpin Gorge).

Why go? Hiking, waterfalls, hot springs, 4WD drives

The Whitsundays, QLD

Think you have to go to the Maldives for a slice of paradise? Australia’s got its very own paradise ready and waiting in the Whitsundays. This collection of 74 islands is located right next to the northeast coast of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef. Most of the islands are uninhabited, and you’ve probably seen  secluded, long white stretches of beach and gorgeous landmarks like Heart Reef on your Instagram feed. If that’s not enough to entice you to pay a visit, the average daily temperature is 27 degrees Celsius. Enough said.

Why go? Snorkelling, boat trips,  scenic flights 

Lord Howe Island, NSW

Rugged, tropical and seriously beautiful, Lord Howe is a destination that we all want to try at least once in our lives. With just 400 visitors allowed at any one time and no mobile reception here, you’ll have space to breathe as you visit incredible natural attractions and mingle with the hundreds of animal species that call this island home. Whether it's exploring secret beaches, swimming with rainbow fish or eating incredible food, this is paradise – in all senses of the word.

Why go? Secret beaches, swimming with turtles, diving, off-grid holidaying 

Eyre Peninsula, SA

Considering a whopping 65 per cent of Australia's seafood comes from this pristine bit of coastline that lines the Great Australian Bight in Southern Australia, you can bet your bottom dollar that if you like fish, this should be on your Australia travel list. From swimming with sea lions, to exploring pristine beaches, to foraging for your own oysters, Eyre has it all. You can fly into one of the region's three airports from Adelaide, and then hire a car to explore the long stretches of remote and stunning coastline on the way. You'll just need a roadworthy vehicle, and a ravenous appetite for good times – and even better seafood.

Why go? Jaw-dropping beaches,  oyster foraging, coastal caves, swimming with sea lions

The Kimberley, WA

If adventure is your favourite thing, look no further than the wild reaches of the Kimberley in Western Australia. Whether you do it by roadtrip, cruise or helicopter, this vast and incredible region is full of ancient Indigenous and geological history, glorious waterways and towering red rocks. A particular highlight is the shocking pink waters of Lake Hillier. Three times bigger than England, this is an absolutely huge area of land, so we recommend doing it either with a tour, or with someone who knows what they're doing.

Why go? Giant waterfalls, p ink lakes, ancient Indigenous rock art, helicopter rides, hikes

Kings Canyon, NT

Considered one of the most epic hikes in the world, this surprising oasis in the middle of the Central Australian desert is bound to astound you. Towering red rocks, a magenta-hued moonscape and a secret waterhole in the middle of hundreds of kilometres of orange sand await you at this very sacred place. The six kilometre walk around the rim of this incredibly impressive place is fairly easy for a range of fitness levels – but just beware of the steep stair scramble at the very beginning.

Why go? Epic hikes, Aboriginal cultural experiences, helicopter rides, stunning sunsets

Rottnest Island (Wadjemup), WA

Just a zippy 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle (or 90 minutes from the Perth CBD), Rottnest Island is one of Western Australia's greatest gems. Also known by its local Aboriginal name, Wadjemup, and ‘Rotto’ by locals, it’s an essential addition to any WA itinerary.  Out of towners may know Rottnest for its friendly population of quokkas, but the island is also home to the most incredible azure blue waters you’ll come across, and nowadays, it has a selection of top-notch eateries and luxe accommodation, as well as camping grounds, cafés and low-key restaurants for the budget-conscious.

Why go? Beach hopping, bike riding, quokkas, camping

Bruny Island, TAS

With its incredibly pure air and unspoilt wilderness, Bruny Island is reachable via a 20-minute ferry journey from the town of Kettering. With just a few hundred human residents, it’s also home to an abundance of wildlife, including fairy penguins, white wallabies and swift parrots. Frolic on remote beaches, do incredible hikes and spot dolphins and wales jumping in the clear waters of the Tasman Sea. On top of that, you eat. Whether it's fresh oysters from Get Shucked or oozing cheeses and chilled glasses of vino from the Bruny Island Cheese Company, it's guaranteed you will not leave empty (stomach, or soul). 

Why go? Fairy penguins, oysters and cheese, unspoilt landscapes, water adventures

The Great Barrier Reef, QLD

It's a classic for a reason. A UNESCO world heritage icon, people come from all over the world to witness the rainbow wonders of the biggest coral reef on Earth. Although threatened by climate change, the Great Barrier Reef continues to offer up a watery magic that has to be swum in to be believed.  Whether you’re a hardcore scuba diver, novice snorkeller or want to see the GBR via a fancy glass-bottomed boat, there are multiple ways to explore it . Just make sure you wear reef-safe sunscreen. The turtles will thank you. 

Why go? Glass bottom boat rides, snorkelling, scuba diving

Byron Bay, NSW

Whether you know for its hippie days of old, or for being home to Chris Hemsworth, Byron Bay in the Northern Rivers region of NSW is inarguably stunningly beautiful. A barefoot, beachside town that is also a whale and dolphin sanctuary, Byron offers up stunning beaches, gorgeous green rolling hills and epic coastal walks galore. On top of all the astounding nature is world-class food, incredible coffee, an abundance of boutique shops, and a year-round holiday feel. Although now more gentrified and expensive than it's ever been, Bryon has a particular kind of magic that even the most cashed-up influencers cannot take away. 

Why go? Blissful  beaches, coastal walks, trendy food scene

The Great Ocean Road, VIC

Justifiably one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations, the Great Ocean Road snakes all along the southwest coast of the state, starting in Torquay (1.5 hours from the CBD) and finishing up just before Warrnambool. This winding stretch of road provides ample opportunity to reconnect with the ocean, the bush and the sounds and sights of nature whether driving, walking, horseriding, surfing, sailing or cycling. From stunning beaches, to cascading waterfalls , to upmarket dining, to the wonders of the Twelve Apostles , there are plenty of adventures to be had. 

Why go? Road trips, natural wonders, stunning beaches

The Sapphire Coast, NSW

If glittering blue waters are your shtick, the Sapphire Coast on NSW's southern coastal border should be on your Australia travel list. Not a known tourist hot spot (probably because it takes up to five hours to drive down here from Sydney), this stretch of oceanic paradise and rugged, unspoilt nature is what postcard dreams are made of. Whether it's guzzling fresh oysters and swimming with seals in Narooma , walking on the world's whitest sand at Hyams , eating just-caught seafood in Eden and succulent cheeses from dairies in Bega and Tilba, or just swimming in crystal clear waters at pretty much every beach along the way, you can best believe that this trip is pretty priceless.

Why go? White beaches, fresh oysters, swimming with seals

The Scenic Rim, QLD

If the name didn’t already give it away, the Scenic Rim is truly a spectacular sight. Just an easy 60-minute drive from Brisbane or the Gold Coast , this hinterland region is known as Brisbane’s World Heritage-listed backyard, boasting stunning national parks, lush rainforests and dramatic mountain ranges. See for yourself why it was included in Lonely Planet’s Top Ten Regions of the World list for 2022. 

Why go? Off-grid escape,  breathtaking mountain vistas, boutique vineyards

Sydney City, NSW

Everyone knows Sydney packs a punch when it comes to spectacular views and thrilling activities. A blue-water city through and through, this buzzing metropolis is a one-stop holiday destination that has something for pretty much everyone. From incredible beaches , to hot and happening new bars , cafés , and restaurants , to colourful cultural happenings , to secluded bushwalks , this city has it all, no matter your poison. 

Why go? Beautiful beaches, world-class restaurants, ferry rides, secluded bushwalks

Tasmanian Mainland, TAS

It’s easy to understand the allure of Australia’s southernmost state. For one thing, 40 per cent of Tasmania is preserved as national parks and world heritage wilderness. Drive 20 minutes outside the state’s major cities (Hobart and Launceston) and you can walk in emerald bushlands, discover hidden waterfalls, or lounge on an exquisite and remote beach . But Tasmania isn’t just for nature fans. There’s extraordinary food, gin and whisky distilleries, wildlife sanctuaries (where you’ll meet endangered Tasmanian devils), cool-climate wineries, wild festivals ,  and a world-class art museum in the  Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) .

Why go? Fresh produce, wild festivals, remote beaches

The Daintree Rainforest, QLD

This ancient rainforest is the traditional country of the Kuku Yalanji people. For an estimated 5,000 years, the Indigenous people of the Daintree have been coexisting with the environment and imbuing the land with dreaming. Referring to the rainforest as ‘Madja’ (elder), the Kuku Yalanji are the custodians of invaluable knowledge of the prehistoric flora and fauna. The Daintree is full of sacred sites and you can experience some of these with permission. This  verdant paradise features movie-cool waterfalls, clear blue lakes, sunlight shimmering through the trees, tropical vegetation and exotic wildlife. 

Why go? Incredible r ainforest walks, secret swimming holes, Aboriginal walkabout tours, eco-lodges

The Dorrigo Rainforest and Bellingen, NSW

If impossibly lush, emerald hills, ancient rainforests and sparkling freshwater swimming holes are your idea of a good time, look no further than exploring the hidden wonders of inland Northern NSW. The Dorrigo rainforest is a World Heritage-listed pocket of wilderness left over from Gondwana. Packed with oodles of accessible day walks, this is a remarkable place to see rainforest birds, dip into water holes and even walk through the tree canopy. Drive 30 minutes away to Bellingen, an artistic country town that's packed full of incredible local food, buzzy bars and some of the most perfect swimming spots you've ever seen. 

Why go? Gorgeous day walks, freshwater swimming holes, secluded picnic spots

Melbourne City, VIC

All the stereotypes about Melbourne are true: everyone wears black, everyone is coffee obsessed , and there are far too many rooftop bars for a city with such temperamental weather. But the best thing about Melbourne is that it’s full of secrets to discover. Whether it’s a hidden laneway bar , a ten-storey shopping adventure or an underground theatre space, most things worth visiting are within easy reach (and cheap as chips to get to, thanks to the city-wide free tram zone).

Why go? Top-notch coffee, hidden laneways, AFL, vibrant arts and culture scene

The Snowy Mountains, NSW

If you're a snow bunny and are keen to come Down Under and hit the slopes, you're in luck (so long as it's winter, and there's been snow). Up high in the Australian Alps is the aptly named 'Snowy Mountain' region of NSW. Also accessible from Canberra and Melbourne, this rugged and mountainous region has a special beauty, no matter the season. In winter, ski at one of the many snow resorts up high, and in summer, head up for cool climate hikes, freezing swims and cosy eats.

Why go? Skiing, snow boarding, mountain hiking, hot tubs

Broken Hill, NSW

There are few places in Australia, or indeed the world, as fascinating, complex and unexpected as Broken Hill. Founded on the richest lead, zinc and silver orebody ever discovered, a mining rush in the 1880s made it one of the most prosperous settlements in Australia’s early colonial days. In more recent years, blockbuster movies have been filmed here, including Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Mad Max 2 , making it a tourism hotspot for a diverse range of travellers, from dystopian movie buffs to drag aficionados. 

The Barossa Valley, SA

The Barossa Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine-producing regions, so if you’re a fan of vino, this is the place to visit. You’ll find it 50 minutes northeast of Adelaide, and there are more than 150 wineries and 80 or so cellar doors to explore. The region primarily focuses on big reds (mostly shiraz and cab sav), but you’ll also find a healthy selection of grenache, riesling and chardonnay. Big Australian wineries like Penfolds, Yalumba and Jacob’s Creek are located here, but we’d recommend visiting smaller producers like Charles Melton and Rockford Wines if you’re after true Aussie hospitality. 

Why go? Wine tours ,  scenic drives, gourmet food  trails

The Southern Highlands, NSW

Feel like harking back to simpler times? The Southern Highlands is the ultimate genteel getaway: full of quaint villages, winding walking trails, and Federation-era pubs for a drink along the way. Explore the lush idyllic hills of Kangaroo Valley, and take in the sprawling Minnamurra rainforest centre on the way. For lunch, the village of Bowral punches well above its weight when it comes to the region's culinary scene. For country coziness just a stone's throw from Sydney, wander up to the Highlands for a cuppa. 

Why go? Beautiful walks, cosy pubs, quaint shopping towns

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The 5 Best Cities to Visit in Australia

Last updated on March 1st, 2024 at 02:51 am

Australia is an enormous country, but here we make your planning a little easier by highlighting the best five cities in Australia to visit, whether you’ve got just a few days, or you’re on the trip of a lifetime. Each of these cities deserves several days at least but they are also great bases for checking out some of Australia’s biggest tourist attractions like the 12 Apostles on the Great Ocean Road.

Australia has an incredible array of natural sights to its name. However, you should definitely also reserve some time to explore the country’s cities, which are far more than just the location of international airports.

Vibrant and packed with culture, museums, parks, restaurants, and bars create a buzz that’s difficult to fake, and impossible not to fall in love with.

Australia’s massive size (its 4,000 km side to side and a similar distance from top to bottom) makes it unlikely you’ll be able to cover the entire country in one trip.

The Red Tape

While travel to Australia is pretty easy compared to some destinations (we’re looking at you Africa) you should still remember to check if you need an Australia visa before planning your trip! Visa requirements vary by nationality, so don’t just rely on the word of a friend! And make sure to do your research regarding what you can and cannot bring into the country such as can you fly with a vape in Australia?

1. Sydney, New South Wales

Australia’s de facto capital for many visitors (although the actual capital is Canberra, covered later), the home of the world-renowned Opera House is the birthplace of modern Australia.

As a result, it’s packed full of historic sites, yet also boasts some of the country’s best restaurants.

The Sydney Opera House has an unmatched harbourside location where both sandy beaches and forested mountains are never far away.

Lastly, if you’re into surfing, you can visit  Aussie Pipe  on the south coast.

It’s no wonder why it makes the top of our list of best cities to visit in Australia.

Not to be missed things to do in Sydney

1 – Probably Australia’s most famous landmark, the Sydney Opera House, and its stunning modernist architecture can be explored as part of a tour, or better yet, during one of its many performances.

2 – Equally iconic is Sydney Harbour Bridge, another of the city’s unmissable sights. Its location in the heart of the city means you’re sure to cross at one time or another, though thrill-seekers will want to go one better and take in the views from the top of the 134-metre structure.

If you’re buying tickets before you arrive in Australia and you want to find the best local prices,  get an Australian VPN .

3 – The Royal Botanic Gardens is arguably the city’s best green space. Covering 74 acres, much of the gardens date back more than 200 years, while they also offer fine views of the Harbour Bridge.

4 – It’s unlikely Bondi Beach needs any introduction either. One of Sydney’s free things to do , this vast arc of white sand is popular with both locals and visitors.

Try your hand at surfing, or opt for the rather more passive experience of soaking up the rays in one of Hall Street’s trendy cafes.

5 – The UNESCO-listed Blue Mountains offer 140 km of walking trails, alongside spectacular landscapes of rock formation and eucalyptus forest. You might even spot a koala!

6 – For art lovers, the Museum of Contemporary Art is not to be missed. Its collection focuses on living artists, giving it an up-to-the-minute feel, without it being stuffy or uptight.

2. Melbourne, Victoria

Australia’s second city has long vied with Sydney for the hearts of visitors. Locals would definitely say Melbourne should be number one of the best cities to visit in Australia.

Located on a simply stunning stretch of Australia’s southern coast, any time in Melbourne is well spent thanks to its combination of natural beauty and city thrills.

The undisputed king of Australia cool, there’s something for everyone in this city of art, sport, and nature. 

Not to be missed things to do in Melbourne

1 – The Great Ocean Road starts on the outskirts of Melbourne and passes through panoramas that need to be seen to be believed.

Take in the Twelve Apostles, rest on any one of a number of perfect beaches, and generally have an amazing experience on even the shortest stretch.

2 – In Melbourne itself, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is Australia’s oldest, largest – and probably best – art gallery.

Its collection contains some 75,000 items, ranging from the decorative works of furniture, to indigenous and Australian art spanning centuries. There’s also a few wonderful Picasso’s.

3 – The NGV is not the only place to get your art fix in Melbourne however. The city has a flourishing street art scene, with entire lanes in the heart of the city covered in bright works that ooze style and humour in equal measure. Federation Square is an interesting architectural sight.

4 – The largest market anywhere in the southern hemisphere, Queen Victoria Market is a place not just to shop, but also one to absorb the city’s ambience while rubbing shoulders with its residents.

5 – Wildlife encounters don’t get much better than those on Phillip Island, where hundreds of Little Penguins – the smallest of the penguin species – waddle ashore each day beside seals on land and whales and dolphins off the coast.

6 – Head to Belgrave Station for a train journey with a difference. The historic narrow-gauge Puffing Billing steam railway takes visitors into the rainforest of the Dandenong Ranges.

7 – Melbourne is sporting mad. It hosts the Melbourne Cup horse race, the Australian Open Tennis Championships, and The Australian Grand Prix, and is home to the MCG or Melbourne Cricket Ground, a hallowed ground for cricket fans from around the world.

3. Brisbane, Queensland

The Queensland state capital and one of the best cities to visit in Australia, Brisbane lies roughly midway along Australia’s Pacific Ocean coastline.

The soaring towers of the city’s central business district mask a number of gems while giving the area an air of sophistication that makes Sydney seem brash by comparison.

Though not top on everyone’s list, Brisbane is the third largest city in Australia, and the things to do in Brisbane offer visitors a little bit of everything: from secluded coves and mountain bike tracks, trips along the Brisbane River, to amazing nightlife. You could even discover Brisbane’s attractions with the  electric fat tyre bike .

Not to be missed things to do in Brisbane

1 – So named because it rests on the southern bank of the Brisbane River, the city’s South Bank district is a culture and leisure hub.

Incorporating manicured parklands, great restaurants, walking and cycling routes, and events throughout the year, it’s the South Bank that makes Brisbane one of the best cities to visit in Australia.

2 – South Bank is also home to the city’s Ferris wheel, the Wheel of Brisbane. Rising to a maximum height of 60 metres its air-conditioned gondolas offer unparalleled views across the city.

3 – Sweeping 360° views can also be had from the Glass House Mountains.

Adventurers will love the walking, abseiling, and kayaking opportunities the mountains offer, while the rest of us mere mortals will be more than satisfied by the photogenic nature of the region.

4 – The world’s largest koala sanctuary, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, is the place to head for encounters with this iconic Australian species.

As well as 120 resident koalas, there are also kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, wombats, echidnas, and various reptiles – a smorgasbord of local wildlife.

5 – Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or not, you’re sure to enjoy a trip to any of Brisbane’s nearby vineyards.

Most welcome visitors throughout the week, offering tastings in their wine cellars, while more substantial meal offerings are also often available.

6 – Brisbane is the capital city of the state but it’s also the largest city close to Surfer’s Paradise and the Gold Coast (that the locals call BrisVegas!), and the incredible Great Barrier Reef.

Surfer’s Paradise and the Gold Coast stretch from the New South Wales border north almost to Brisbane and is a lively area of beautiful beaches and lots of entertainment and amusement parks.

The Great Barrier Reef is a vast wonderland of coral, fish, reefs, and atolls and if you can make a day or two from Brisban to fly to Cairns to snorkel or dive on the reef, take the opportunity – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

4. Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

The Aussie capital, Canberra has long had its detractors, however, this planned city is spacious, modern, and clean.

It is one of the best cities in Australia when it comes to culture, and also vaunts an increasingly impressive restaurant and bar scene, perhaps thanks to all those politicians and ambassadors needing somewhere nice to eat and drink after a hard day of work!

Not to be missed things to do in Canberra

1 – The extraordinary architecture of the National Museum of Australia on the Acton Peninsula is just the beginning of the wonders on display here.

It does a great job of explaining 50,000 years of aboriginal heritage, and the building of modern Australia too.

2 – Less than 50 years old, the Parliament building has a wonderful location on top of Capital Hill and a surprising amount to see, including the two parliamentary chambers themselves, the Great Hall, and Members Hall.

3 – Canberra is dominated by Lake Burley Griffin, an artificial lake created in the 1960s.

Its edge is lined with sights, from the High Court, and National Carillon, to Captain Cook Memorial Fountain, and crisscrossed with cycle and walking routes too.

4 – The National Gallery of Australia is a wonderful art gallery housed in an astonishing brutalist concrete building on the foreshore of Lake Burley Griffin.

It has an excellent collection of international and Aboriginal art and includes an outdoor sculpture gallery.

4 – Stemming from the waters of the Molonglo River like Lake Burley Griffin, the Jerrabomberra Wetlands are home to more than 200 species of bird, including migratory species from China and Japan.

From the boardwalk around Kelly Swamp and the Kingston Foreshore, you might also catch sight of turtles and platypuses.

5 – Canberra is a city made for families and it’s often thought of as a big country town. As a result, you’ll find lots of family-friendly activities like the Old Bus Depot markets in addition to the big blockbuster attractions and heritage buildings.

These include the Australian War Memorial, New Parliament House, Old Parliament House, and increasing wine regions to the north and into New South Wales.

5. Perth, Western Australia

The principal city of Australia’s west coast is increasingly easy to reach both domestically and internationally.

Is it worth the trip? Definitely, or it wouldn’t make it onto our list of the best cities to visit in Australia!

Among the glass and steel, you’ll find a good number of elegant historic buildings, while its coastline rivals that of Melbourne and Sydney.

Not to be missed things to do in Perth

1 – The unusual form of the Bell Tower in central Perth house the royal bells from London’s St Martin-in-the-field Church, a gift from the UK in 1988.

Alongside the 12 bells, the earliest of which dates to the reign of Edward VI in 1550, the Bell Tower offers spectacular views across the city.

2 – Situated within the city’s central business district, the Supreme Court Gardens are something of a tropical oasis on the banks of the Swan River.

It’s a lovely place to stop for a picnic, and hosts various events linked to the annual Perth Festival.

3 – The nearby Elizabeth Quay has revitalised this area of the city, which is now hailed as the place to be when it comes to eating and drinking in Perth.

Popular with local families, the summer months also see food trucks add to the choice.

4 – For one of Australia’s West Coast Wildlife experiences , catch the ferry from Elizabeth Quay across the Swan River for a visit to Perth Zoo, where you are guaranteed sightings of Australia’s endemic wildlife (as well as elephant, lion, and orangutan). 

5 – The historic seaside port of Fremantle makes a great day trip from Perth but is filled with bars and restaurants for relaxed summer evenings as well.

Final Thoughts

The best cities to visit in Australia provide visitors with almost unlimited possibilities of what to see and do. There are of course many other Australian cities worth visiting, and you might want to consider:

• Cairns (snorkelling and scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, and Daintree Forest, Cairns Botanic Gardens)
• Surfers Paradise (Gold Coast theme parks, Gold Coast Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary) and the stunning warm urban beaches of Surfers Paradise)
• Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory (Kakadu trips, Darwin Military Museum)

Wherever on the map your pin ends up landing, make sure to check out those visa requirements first to avoid disappointment!

Related reading: Check out the 13 Top Highlights of West Coast Australia We’ve also listed the  13 Top Highlights of East Coast Australia!

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Top 10 Best Cities to Visit in Australia (2024)

It's no secret that Australia is my favorite place on earth, and hence I have immigrated across the world to live in the country of sunshine and endless ocean waves.

You will probably not fully understand my obsession with Australia, its natural beauty, people and lifestyle until you've actually visited.

But the country is huge and there are literally so many places to visit. I've lived in multiple cities across Australia, from Darwin to Perth to Sydney and visited plenty of others. Today, my home base is the Gold Coast , so I know a thing or two about the most popular cities along the East Coast and most isolated cities in Western Australia.

From Sydney’s scenic harbor to Melbourne’s artistic lanes and incredible coffee, the chilled-out life along the Brisbane River, read on for my handpicked selection of the best cities to visit in Australia.

1. Sydney: Australia's Most Popular City

Often mistaken for the country’s capital, Sydney is the grand and populous largest city in Australia.

Located in the state of New South Wales, Sydney has a striking skyline dominated by the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The city’s ambiance with its waterfront harbor setting offers a lively and vibrant atmosphere that cements its status as a must-visit destination among Australian cities.

Best time to visit Sydney

During the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities, as well as iconic landmarks, can be enjoyed without the extremes of summer heat or winter chill. Even though, I do love summer in this city too!

Best things to do in Sydney

Sydney Opera House Stroll: Take a leisurely stroll by the iconic Sydney Opera House, a cultural hub hosting various events throughout the year, including opera, music concerts, and theater productions.

Sydney Harbour Bridge Adventures: Experience the architectural marvel of the Sydney Harbour Bridge by walking or biking across it. Opt for a thrilling Sydney Harbour Bridge climb for a bird's-eye perspective and unparalleled views of Sydney's beauty.

Historic Exploration at The Rocks: Explore The Rocks, a historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets and vibrant markets, providing a glimpse into Sydney’s intriguing past.

Beach Bliss: Enjoy the world-renowned beauty of Sydney's beaches, with Bondi Beach in the south and Manly Beach in the north offering diverse activities such as sunbathing and surfing.

Coastal Walks: Embark on coastal walks like the Bondi to Coogee trail, providing breathtaking ocean views and opportunities for snorkeling.

Wildlife Encounter at Taronga Zoo: Visit Taronga Zoo for a unique wildlife experience against the backdrop of the Sydney skyline at this harborside zoo.

• Day trip to the Hunter Valley: Enjoy a scenic day trip from Sydney to the Hunter Valley, exploring renowned wineries, gourmet restaurants, and picturesque countryside. If you have the time, staying overnight in the Hunter Valley is an experience in itself.

2. Melbourne: Australia's Cultural & Coffee Capital

Known as Australia’s cultural and coffee capital, Australia's second largest city Melbourne thrives with creativity and gastronomy. The city’s street art, vibrant arts scene, and multicultural neighborhoods contribute to its reputation as a hub of creativity.

From the bohemian Brunswick, with its Italian and Greek influences, to Carlton’s ‘Little Italy’ and the vibrant Chinese community in Box Hill, Melbourne is a city of diverse cultures and its got plenty of things to do .

Best time to visit Melbourne

I recommend exploring Melbourne during its mild and pleasant autumn months (March to May) when the city showcases vibrant foliage and hosts various cultural events. Spring (September to November) is also a great time to visit with mild temperatures and blooming flowers.

Best things to do in Melbourne

Coffee Culture: Explore Melbourne's renowned coffee scene with high-quality brews and skilled baristas.

Laneway Exploration: Wander through the city's thriving laneways, such as the iconic Hosier Lane and I actually prefer ACDC Lane, featuring hidden bars, boutique shops, and dynamic street art.

Melbourne Cup: Attend the prestigious Melbourne Cup horse racing event every November, capturing the nation's attention with thrilling races.

Beach Bliss: Enjoy Melbourne's famous beaches, including the lively St Kilda Beach and the colorful bathing boxes at Brighton Beach.

Cultural Festivals: Immerse yourself in Melbourne's vibrant multiculturalism through various cultural festivals, with the Moomba Festival standing out for its parade, fireworks, and family-friendly activities along the Yarra River.

Sports Enthusiasts' Delight: Experience Australia's sports culture at iconic venues like the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for cricket and Australian rules football, and the adrenaline-packed Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix at the Albert Park Circuit.

Phillip Island Day Trip: Venture on a day trip from Melbourne to Phillip Island, known for its wildlife and rugged beauty, offering a close encounter with nature.

3. Brisbane: Queensland's Sunny Metropolis

Perfect for visitors who appreciate an active lifestyle, Brisbane is Queensland’s sunny metropolis and the third-largest city in Australia.

With its subtropical climate and outdoor attractions like the riverfront promenades and the renowned South Bank Parklands, Brisbane offers a wonderful mix of urban charm and natural beauty.

Best time to visit Brisbane

The best time to visit Brisbane is during the autumn months from March to May. The weather is mild and comfortable, offering pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities without the extremes of summer heat or winter chill.

Best things to do in Brisbane

South Bank's Urban Oasis: Experience urban relaxation at South Bank, featuring an artificial beach that serves as a hub for outdoor enjoyment.

Brisbane River Exploration: Explore the vibrant atmosphere around the Brisbane River, dotted with restaurants, bars, and music venues, offering a lively riverside experience.

Climb the Story Bridge: Experience breathtaking views of the city by climbing the Story Bridge, an iconic Brisbane landmark.

Cultural Exploration: Immerse yourself in Brisbane's cultural scene with visits to the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Unwind at the lovely riverside café, providing a perfect setting to soak in the city's cultural ambiance.

Eat Street Northshore: Indulge in a culinary adventure at Eat Street Northshore, a vibrant market with a variety of international cuisines and live entertainment.

Outdoor Adventures: Engage in outdoor activities like kayaking, climbing, hiking, and biking, taking full advantage of Brisbane's temperate weather.

Day Trips for Nature Lovers: Venture on short trips from Brisbane to Mount Tamborine in the Scenic Rim region for a rainforest skywalk, waterfalls, and local wineries. Explore North Stradbroke Island via ferry for land-based whale-watching, unspoiled beaches, and serene freshwater lakes.

Mountain Escapes: Head towards the north to visit the Glass House Mountains and the Blue Mountains for unique hiking experiences and breathtaking mountain views.

4. Perth: Western Australia's Coastal Gem

Renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cosmopolitan feel, and laid-back lifestyle, Perth is the coastal gem that serves as the capital of Western Australia.

With attractions ranging from pop-up restaurants to city beach swimming and learning to surf at Cottesloe, Perth offers a blend of urban vibes and coastal relaxation.

Best time to visit Perth

Optimal times for staying in Perth are during the mild and pleasant seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), providing comfortable temperatures ideal for outdoor activities while avoiding the summer heat.

Best things to do in Perth

Kings Park and Western Australian Botanic Garden: Explore Kings Park, one of the world’s largest inner-city parks, featuring the Western Australian Botanic Garden with over 3,000 species of the state's unique flora.

Elizabeth Quay: Stroll along Elizabeth Quay, a waterfront precinct featuring restaurants, shops, and public art installations, providing a scenic and lively atmosphere.

Swan Valley Wine Tour: Indulge in a wine tour to Swan Valley, Perth's premier wine region, and savor locally produced wines amid picturesque vineyards.

Fremantle's Historic Charm: Take a short drive to Fremantle, a historic seaside town adorned with colonial-era buildings, and immerse yourself in its architectural heritage. Wander through the vibrant Fremantle Markets, a bustling hub offering handicrafts, specialty foods, and a lively atmosphere with buskers and street performers.

Fremantle Prison: Delve into history at the Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through guided tours and cultural events that offer insights into the region's past.

Rottnest Island Adventures: Jump on a short ferry ride to Rottnest Island, renowned for its adorable quokkas, and indulge in nature and wildlife experiences. Enjoy snorkeling and cycling adventures on the island, making for a great day trip from Perth.

5. Adelaide: South Australia’s Wine and Arts Haven

Known for its arty, bohemian vibe, Adelaide, the capital of South Australia hosts a range of cultural events, including the Adelaide Festival in March.

The city’s laidback and casual feel, along with attractions like the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, the Adelaide Central Market, and the Cleland Conservation Park, make it a must-visit destination in South Australia.

Best time to visit Adelaide

Optimal time to explore Adelaide is during the mild and inviting seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), presenting a perfect blend of comfortable temperatures that allow for a delightful exploration of the city's cultural and outdoor offerings. I recommend avoiding the winter months. I actually visited during summer and loved the long hot days.

Best things to do in Adelaide

Winery Tours and Tastings: Immerse yourself in Adelaide's rich winemaking heritage with winery tours to renowned regions like Barossa Valley for its Shiraz and McLaren Vale for its Grenache.

Adelaide Central Market: Explore the bustling Adelaide Central Market, a food lover's paradise offering fresh produce, gourmet treats, and a vibrant atmosphere, showcasing the city's culinary diversity.

Art Gallery of South Australia: Explore the Art Gallery of South Australia, boasting a vast collection of over 38,000 works with a strong focus on Australian, Indigenous, and European art. The gallery's unique architecture enhances the display of art amid a garden setting with native Australian plants.

Day trip to Kangaroo Island: Kangaroo Island is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, revealing distinctive landscapes across its 540 kilometers of stunning coastline and providing unique wildlife encounters with sea lions, koalas, and cockatoos, capturing the essence of Australia's natural beauty in a single journey.

Hahndorf – German Village: Take a day trip to Hahndorf, Australia's oldest surviving German settlement, known for its charming streets, German-inspired architecture, and a range of artisanal shops and eateries.

Glenelg Beach Retreat: Spend a beach day at Glenelg Beach, a must-visit destination known for its sandy shores and vibrant entertainment options, providing the perfect blend of relaxation and coastal excitement.

6. Canberra: The Planned Political Centre

Renowned for its excellent museums, galleries, and monuments, Canberra is the meticulously designed political center of Australia.

The city offers a wealth of cultural activities, including visiting the National Gallery of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, and the National Museum of Australia.

Canberra’s serene location away from bustling metropolises on the East Coast makes it a peaceful retreat for art and history enthusiasts.

Best time to visit Canberra

The best time to visit Canberra is during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) for mild weather, but summer (December to February) also offers pleasant conditions with longer days and outdoor events. Winter is possibly the least desirable time to visit unless you're planning to head into the ski fields nearby.

Best things to do in Canberra

Parliament House: Visit Parliament House, an architectural marvel, for guided tours and a glimpse into Australia's political process.

Australian War Memorial: Explore the poignant Australian War Memorial, commemorating the nation's military history with exhibitions, memorials, and the moving Last Post Ceremony.

National Gallery of Australia: Immerse yourself in art at the National Gallery of Australia, housing an extensive collection of Australian and international masterpieces.

National Museum of Australia: Discover Australia's history and culture at the National Museum of Australia through engaging exhibits and interactive displays.

Lake Burley Griffin: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Burley Griffin with activities like cycling, walking, or taking a cruise to appreciate the city's iconic landmarks. There are also a few cute cafes around the lake.

Australian National Botanic Gardens: Stroll through the Australian National Botanic Gardens, showcasing diverse native flora in a picturesque setting.

Mount Ainslie Lookout: Hike or drive to Mount Ainslie Lookout for stunning panoramic views of Canberra and its surrounding landscape.

7. Hobart: Tasmania's Picturesque Port

Known for its bustling waterfront, beautiful mountain backdrop, and dark blue ocean, Hobart is a picturesque port city that serves as the capital of Tasmania .

The city’s rapidly growing food culture and arts scene, along with a wealth of attractions, create a buzz that is increasingly drawing visitors to Hobart.

Best time to visit Hobart

The best time to visit Hobart is during the summer months between December to February. During these months, the weather is mild, and the city comes alive with festivals, outdoor events, and opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Tasmania.

Best things to do in Hobart

Salamanca Market: Explore the vibrant Salamanca Market, held every Saturday, to discover local arts, crafts, fresh produce, and delicious food stalls.

MONA – Museum of Old and New Art: Immerse yourself in the unique and thought-provoking exhibits at the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), located on the picturesque Berriedale Peninsula.

Mount Wellington: Take a scenic drive or hike to the summit of Mount Wellington for breathtaking panoramic views of Hobart and the surrounding landscapes.

Battery Point Historic District: Wander through Battery Point, a charming historic district with well-preserved Georgian and Victorian architecture, quaint streets, and historic cottages.

Port Arthur Historic Site: Visit the Port Arthur Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed penal settlement, and explore the well-preserved convict buildings and picturesque surroundings.

Bruny Island: Take a day trip to Bruny Island for its stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, and local produce, including fresh oysters and cheese.

Tasman Bridge: Enjoy a scenic walk or drive across the iconic Tasman Bridge, offering picturesque views of the Derwent River and the city.

Cascade Brewery: Tour the Cascade Brewery, Australia's oldest operating brewery, and enjoy tastings of their craft beers in a historic setting.

Richmond Village: Visit the historic village of Richmond, known for its well-preserved Georgian architecture, the Richmond Bridge, and charming tea rooms.

8. Gold Coast: Queensland's Glittering Beaches

The Gold Coast, nestled on the south coast of Queensland, is a showcase of some of Australia’s best beaches. It's no secret I absolutely love living here!

The city is renowned for its range of activities, including surfing, world-class roller coasters and theme parks, and vibrant nightclubs.

Best time to visit the Gold Coast

The best time to visit the Gold Coast is during the Australian autumn and spring, from March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasantly mild, and the region experiences lower humidity and fewer crowds, which is an ideal environment to enjoy the stunning beaches and outdoor attractions.

The summers are hot and I love the endless beach days, but they can also be stormy. Winters are relatively mild compared to many other regions.

Best things to do on the Gold Coast

Broadbeach: I highly recommend overseas visitors to stay in Broadbeach. Its got a relaxed atmosphere with upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as its pristine beach.

Burleigh Heads National Park: Explore the natural beauty of Burleigh Heads National Park, with scenic walking trails, rocky headlands, and stunning ocean views.

SkyPoint Observation Deck: Take in panoramic views of the Gold Coast from the SkyPoint Observation Deck, located atop the Q1 building, offering breathtaking vistas of the coastline and hinterland.

Theme Parks: Enjoy a day of thrill and excitement at the Gold Coast's world-renowned theme parks, including Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World, and Sea World.

Surfers Paradise: Soak up the sun and surf at Surfers Paradise Beach, one of the most iconic and lively beaches on the Gold Coast. It's one of the most touristy parts of the Gold Coast.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Experience Australian wildlife up close at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can feed kangaroos, cuddle koalas, and watch shows.

Gold Coast Hinterland: Discover the lush Gold Coast Hinterland, featuring Tamborine Mountain, Lamington National Park, and Springbrook National Park, known for their rainforests, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Broadbeach: Visit the sophisticated Broadbeach precinct for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as its pristine beach.

Art and Culture at HOTA: Immerse yourself in art and culture at Home of the Arts (HOTA), which hosts exhibitions, performances, and events in a stunning waterfront setting.

Tallebudgera Creek: Relax at Tallebudgera Creek, a tranquil inlet with calm waters, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and picnicking.

Gold Coast Canals and Waterways: Take a cruise or boat tour along the Gold Coast canals and waterways to appreciate the cityscape and luxurious waterfront homes.

9. Cairns: Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef & Tropical Rainforest

Situated in North Queensland, Cairns serves as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the tropical Daintree Rainforest.

Known as a base for exploring these two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Cairns offers a unique blend of tropical environment and bustling city life, making it a popular destination for both adventure seekers and leisure travelers.

Best time to visit Cairns

The best time to visit Cairns is during the Australian winter and spring, from June to November. During this period, the weather is dry and mild, offering comfortable temperatures for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, rainforests, and other outdoor attractions. Additionally, this time coincides with the region's low rainfall, reducing the chances of encountering tropical storms. While Cairns is a year-round destination, this season provides optimal conditions for a pleasant and enjoyable visit.

Best things to do in Cairns

Cairns Esplanade: Relax along the Cairns Esplanade, a waterfront promenade offering parks, swimming lagoons, and recreational facilities with stunning views of the Coral Sea.

Fitzroy Island: Take a day trip to Fitzroy Island, a tropical paradise featuring white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and hiking trails through the lush rainforest.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Soar above the lush rainforest canopy with the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, offering breathtaking views of the Barron Gorge National Park and the Coral Sea.

Kuranda Scenic Railway: Enjoy a scenic train journey through the mountains with the Kuranda Scenic Railway, providing stunning views of waterfalls, rainforests, and the Barron Gorge.

Great Barrier Reef Exploration: Dive into the breathtaking underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system, through unforgettable snorkeling or scuba diving adventures, with the option of luxurious experiences aboard a superyacht. You could also book a scenic flight over the reef, it's truly unforgettable.

Rainforest Retreats: Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Australian rainforests around Cairns, with eco-tourism becoming a prominent feature, offering sustainable accommodations within the Daintree National Park for an environmentally conscious stay.

Cafe Culture and Rusty's Market: Indulge in Cairns' burgeoning cafe culture, with a visit to Rusty's Market in the central business district, offering a vibrant three-day affair filled with over 180 stalls featuring exotic fruits, vegetables, flowers, and diverse food stalls for a true taste of local flavors and atmosphere.

Palm Cove: Situated near Cairns in Northern Queensland, the small town of Palm Cove has pristine sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, and tranquil ambiance, providing an idyllic tropical escape for relaxation and natural beauty.

10. Darwin: The Top End's Multicultural Metropolis

The capital city of the Northern Territory, Darwin, is a distinctive multicultural city reflecting a vibrant fusion of Southeast Asian influences and Australian outback culture.

The city’s cultural heritage is enriched by its residents, who hail from over fifty nationalities, creating a real melting pot. Not only does it lack a traditional city skyline dominated by towering skyscrapers, but its unique urban landscape is characterized by low-rise structures and a laid-back, tropical atmosphere.

While the city itself doesn't offer many tourist attractions, there are plenty of day trips to nearby national parks. Darwin is also the gateway to exploring central Australia, including Alice Springs and Ayers Rock.

Best time to visit Darwin

The best time to visit Darwin is during the dry season, which spans from May to September. During these months, the weather is characterized by mild temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, providing comfortable conditions for exploring outdoor attractions, such as national parks, wildlife reserves, and cultural events. The wet season, from November to April, brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity, potentially causing flooding and making some areas inaccessible.

Best things to do in Darwin

Darwin Waterfront Precinct: Relax at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct, featuring a wave pool, a safe swimming lagoon, and a variety of waterfront restaurants and cafes.

Mindil Beach Sunset Market: Experience the vibrant Mindil Beach Sunset Market, where you can indulge in delicious international cuisine, shop for local arts and crafts, and witness breathtaking sunsets over the Timor Sea.

Crocosaurus Cove: Get up close and personal with Australia's iconic saltwater crocodiles at Crocosaurus Cove, where you can even dare to enter the “Cage of Death” for a thrilling underwater encounter.

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT): Immerse yourself in the rich cultural and natural history of the Northern Territory at MAGNT, which features indigenous art, maritime archaeology, and the preserved remains of “Sweetheart,” a massive saltwater crocodile.

Litchfield National Park: Explore the natural wonders of Litchfield National Park, known for its stunning waterfalls, magnetic termite mounds, and refreshing natural swimming pools.

Kakadu National Park: Embark on an unforgettable journey to Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to witness ancient Aboriginal rock art, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife.

Deckchair Cinema: Enjoy an outdoor cinematic experience under the stars at the Deckchair Cinema, offering a selection of local and international films in a relaxed, tropical setting.

Fannie Bay Gaol: Step back in time with a visit to Fannie Bay Gaol, the historic prison that provides insights into Darwin's past through its museum and guided tours.

Charles Darwin National Park: Take a hike or enjoy panoramic views of Darwin from Charles Darwin National Park, where walking trails lead to World War II bunkers and historic military sites.

Book Your Trip To Australia

Book Your Flight I recommend using Skyscanner as the easiest way to find and compare the best airfares to and within Australia. Book Your Hotel My top pick for finding the perfect accommodation is Booking.com , as they guarantee the best room rate available, plus you get free cancellation on most bookings. Book Your Tours & Activities  I like finding and pre-booking tours with  Get Your Guide and Viator . You will book with instant confirmation, great customer support, and free cancellation for many activities. Access Money Overseas Without Hidden Fees  I highly recommend  getting a Wise account  to withdraw money in Australia, pay for meals on the Visa card, or shop in Australian Dollars. With Wise, you always pay the real exchange, so you never pay more than you need to. Stay Connected Anywhere Getting an eSIM card from Airalo eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, so you can easily switch between mobile networks in over 190 countries worldwide without expensive roaming fees. Don't Go Without Travel Insurance Travel with confidence, knowing that Hey Mondo , my preferred travel insurance provider, has your back. Don't let illness, accidents, theft, or cancellations ruin your trip. As a Breathing Travel reader, you also get 5% off any policy purchased !

The Best Cities to Visit in Australia – Frequently Asked Questions

❓ where should i go for the first time in australia.

You should consider visiting Sydney, Melbourne, and Cairns/the Great Barrier Reef for your first trip to Australia. Another highlight would be Uluru in the heart of Australia's Red Centre, offering a profound spiritual and natural spectacle with its ever-changing hues during sunrise and sunset.

⭐ What's the most beautiful Australian city?

Beauty is subjective, but many consider Sydney to be the most beautiful Australian city, thanks to its iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, stunning coastal beaches, and a picturesque harbor. Melbourne also competes for this title, renowned for its diverse arts and culture scene, charming laneways, and well-preserved architecture, making it a matter of personal preference.

🌆 What are the top three city destinations in Australia?

Australia's top three city destinations are Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Sydney stands out with its iconic landmarks like the Opera House, vibrant culture, and stunning Sydney Harbor. Melbourne is known for its artsy laneways, diverse culinary scene, and a whole calendar full of cultural events. Brisbane, with its subtropical climate, offers a laid-back atmosphere, riverside attractions, and a growing arts and entertainment scene.

📍 What are some iconic landmarks to visit in Sydney?

You should definitely visit the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, as they are some of the most iconic landmarks in Sydney. As well as Bondi Beach, Australia's most famous beach.

🥶 Does it get cold in Australia?

Overall, while Australia is known for its warm and hot climate, certain regions can experience cooler temperatures, especially during the winter months. In the southern regions, particularly in winter (June to August), areas like Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide can have pretty cold temperatures, with some areas experiencing frost and occasional snow in the mountains. However, in the northern parts, such as Queensland and the Northern Territory, winters are generally mild, and temperatures remain relatively warm.

The Best Cities to Visit in Australia – Final Words

From the iconic cityscape of Sydney to the multicultural metropolis of Darwin, each city in Australia offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, there’s a city in Australia that’s perfect for your next trip.

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!

Carolin is a travel expert born in Germany. She has been travelling around the world since 2014 and now lives in her adopted soul home Australia. Her travel advice has been featured on Forbes, Daily Mail, Yahoo!, News.com.au, Tour Radar, Expedia and she's also been named one of the top travel bloggers you need to follow by Tourism Queensland.

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Australia

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Jul 22, 2023

Australia is a land of dreams. According to Aboriginal legend, in the Dreamtime, the great spirits created its thriving coral reefs, luxuriant rainforests, and red-earthed deserts. Today, these spectacular ecosystems host some of the quirkiest wildlife on the planet and lure nature lovers and adventure seekers from around the globe.

Australia is also a land of staggering contrasts and spectacular beauty. Along the coast, you can explore vibrant cities, vast sand islands, and one of the planet's most awe-inspiring natural wonders: the Great Barrier Reef. In the Outback, rugged national parks and remote deserts offer the ultimate travel adventures rich with Indigenous history.

Top it all off with a laid-back feel and friendly people, and it's no wonder Australia scores top billing on bucket lists around the world. Bring your travel dreams to life and plan the best places to visit with this list of the top attractions in Australia.

1. Sydney Opera House, New South Wales

2. great barrier reef marine park, queensland, 3. uluru-kata tjuta national park, northern territory, 4. sydney harbour bridge, new south wales, 5. blue mountains national park, new south wales, 6. melbourne's culture, victoria, 7. bondi beach, new south wales, 8. daintree national park, queensland, 9. k'gari (fraser island), queensland, 10. kakadu national park, northern territory, 11. great ocean road, victoria, 12. broome, western australia, 13. kangaroo island, south australia, 14. cradle mountain-lake st. clair national park, tasmania, 15. horizontal falls & the kimberley region, 16. train trips across the outback.

Mention "Sydney, Australia" and most people think of the Opera House. Shaped like huge shells or billowing sails, this famous building on Sydney's Bennelong Point graces the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is one of the world's great architectural icons.

The location is stunning. Water surrounds the structure on three sides, and the Royal Botanic Gardens border it to the south.

Danish architect, Jørn Utzon won an international competition for its design but withdrew from the project after technical and financing problems. Construction was finally completed in 1973 at a cost of 10 times the original budget. By this time, Utzon had left the country, never returning to see his magnificent creation.

Today, you can enjoy a performance here, dine at one of the restaurants, or see the highlights of the Sydney Opera House on a guided tour. The structure encompasses theaters, studios, a concert hall, exhibition rooms, and a cinema.

Touring the interior of the Sydney Opera House is rewarding, but its striking architecture is perhaps best appreciated from a distance. One of the best sites to photograph this top Sydney tourist attraction is Mrs Macquarie's Chair in the Royal Botanic Gardens. Better still, hop aboard a harbor cruise or ferry and capture a photo from the water as you glide past.

In 2023, the Sydney Opera House is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a packed calendar of special events. During your visit, be sure to check out the newly renovated Concert Hall, part of an almost $300-million "Decade of Renewal."

Author's Tips: If you're visiting Sydney in late May/early June, you can see the white sails of the opera house light up after dark at the Vivid Sydney festival each year.

You can't leave Australia without seeing the Great Barrier Reef. This World Heritage-listed natural wonder is one of the largest living structures on the planet . It's so vast, you can see it from outer space. For divers, snorkelers, island aficionados, and nature lovers, it's a bucket list destination .

In 1975, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park was established to protect its fragile ecosystems. These include more than 3,000 coral reefs; 600 continental islands, including the beautiful Whitsunday group ; 300 coral cays; and inshore mangrove islands.

One of the seven wonders of the natural world , the park stretches for 2,300 kilometers along the state of Queensland, on Australia's east coast (that's about the distance between Mexico and Vancouver).

Not surprisingly, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the best places to visit in Australia for diving and snorkeling. The astounding array of marine life includes soft and hard corals, more than 1,600 species of tropical fish, sharks, dugongs, dolphins, turtles, rays, and giant clams. Prefer to stay dry? You can see the reef from underwater viewing stations and glass bottom boats.

Travelers have many options for visiting the Great Barrier Reef . You can cruise around the islands, hop aboard a sightseeing flight, take day trips to the islands, or snorkel and dive the reefs. On the mainland, the main launching points for tours are Cairns , Port Douglas , and Airlie Beach .

Deep in the heart of Australia's Red Centre, Uluru ( formerly Ayers Rock ), is one of the most photographed natural wonders in the country. The striking red monolith forms the centerpiece of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park , a World Heritage Site jointly managed by Parks Australia and the traditional landowners, the Aṉangu people.

Uluru, meaning "shadowy place" in the local Aboriginal dialect, rises to a height of 348 meters from the surrounding plain. Most of its bulk is hidden beneath the Earth's surface.

Also in the park, about a 30-minute drive from Uluru, are the red dome-shaped rocks called Kata Tjuta (formerly called the Olgas). Equally impressive as their more famous neighbor, and often less crowded, they should not be missed while you are in the park. You can admire their beauty on the 2.6-kilometer-return trek to Walpa Gorge or the 7.4-kilometer Valley of the Winds circuit.

Prime time for photographing these striking landforms is at sunset, when visitors gather to watch the colors of Uluru and Kata Tjuta transform in the shifting light.

Note: In 2019, the Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park board outlawed climbing Uluru out of respect for the Anangu people, the traditional owners. The best way to appreciate these sacred sites is on walks led by Aboriginal guides and rangers.

Along with the Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of Australia's top architectural icons. Affectionately called "the Coathanger," this impressive feat of construction is the largest steel arch bridge in the world . It was completed in 1932, 40 years before the Sydney Opera House.

Rising 134 meters above the harbor, the bridge spans 500 meters, connecting Sydney's North Shore to the central business district. In addition to the pedestrian path, two railway lines extend over the bridge, as well as eight lanes for road traffic, and the direction of each lane can be switched to accommodate traffic flow.

One of the top things to do in Sydney is a guided ascent to the top of the bridge. Standing on its summit, connected only by a carabiner, you can breathe in spectacular 360-degree views of the harbor and city. It's a great way to truly appreciate the layout of the city as you gaze out over the fingers of water that snake their way into beautiful blue bays.

For an overview of the bridge's history and construction, visit the museum on the southeastern pier.

Fun fact: Paul Hogan, of Crocodile Dundee fame, worked as a painter on the bridge before rocketing to international stardom.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sydney

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , beautiful Blue Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise and a popular day trip from Sydney . It lies an easy 81-kilometer drive west of the city.

Named for the blue haze emanating from the many eucalyptus trees, this stunning park protects more than 664,000 acres of wilderness. On a visit here, you can explore dramatic gorges, waterfalls, Aboriginal rock paintings, and 140 kilometers of hiking trails.

The most famous attractions in Blue Mountains National Park are the towering sandstone rock formations called the Three Sisters . Other highlights include the Katoomba Scenic Railway , the world's steepest, which whisks passengers down the Jamison Valley through a cliff-side tunnel into an ancient rainforest; and the Skyway, Scenic Cableway, and Scenic Walkway, which all offer elevated views of the dense forests.

Hiking, abseiling, rock climbing, mountain biking, and horseback riding are all popular things to do in the park.

Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city, is a popular stop on many Australian itineraries — especially for culture vultures. Galleries, theaters, restaurants, shops, and its distinctly European feel are the main draws of this sophisticated city on the Yarra River.

It's also a green city, with parks, gardens, and open spaces occupying almost a third of its total area.

The cultural highlights of Melbourne are many. Gape at the masterpieces at the National Gallery of Victoria , watch a performance at Arts Centre Melbourne , or head to Federation Square . Here, you can browse Australian artworks at the Ian Potter Gallery and learn about the nation's screen culture at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) .

Feel like getting back to nature? Follow the Aboriginal Heritage Walk at the Royal Botanic Gardens . And if sports culture is top of your agenda, catch a game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground . In summer, cricket is the sport of choice; in winter, it's Australian Rules football.

Melbourne is also rich in history. You can see it in the Grand Victorian buildings funded by the Gold Rush, and you can feel it as you shop in the elegant arcades and Queen Victoria Market , which has been selling goods to Melburnians for over a century.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

Bronzed bodies, blond sand, backpackers, and surf — throw it all together and you get one of the world's most famous beaches. Only 15 minutes by car from Sydney's city center, Bondi Beach is a great spot for a taste of Sydney's beach culture. Bask on the golden sands, surf the breaks, or take a cool dip on a hot summer's day (but stay between the flags).

Few cities in the world lay claim to such an enticing slice of sand and sea so close to the city. No wonder it's one of Sydney's best beaches . And you'll find some history here, too: Bondi hosts one of the oldest Surf Life Saving Clubs in the world .

Away from the shore, you'll find plenty of things to do in Bondi. Take a stroll along the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk. It begins at the southern end of the beach and follows the coastline for six scenic kilometers along sandstone cliffs. You can also hunt for bargains at the Sunday markets or swim some laps in the ocean pool. And if you work up an appetite, you'll find plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby.

One of the best places for a meal with a view at Bondi Beach is the famous Icebergs dining room. The menu spotlights modern Italian cuisine, and you can enjoy a meal of fresh-cooked fish watching the waves wash over the ocean pool.

Bondi also has a wild side. Crowds of tourists and locals gather here to celebrate Christmas and ring in the New Year. It's a favorite spot for travelers.

A word to the wise: If you're taking a dip at Bondi, make sure you swim between the red and yellow flags. Strong rip tides often sweep unsuspecting swimmers out to sea, especially at the southern end of this kilometer-long strand. There's a reason the Aussies made a reality TV show called Bondi Rescue .

A Wet Tropics World Heritage Area , Daintree National Park in Far North Queensland is among the most ancient ecosystems on Earth. The area belongs to the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people, and many of its natural features hold great spiritual significance.

The park encompasses two main sections: Mossman Gorge, where crystal-clear waters gush over granite boulders, and Cape Tribulation, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Australia. Here, rainforest meets reef along the white sandy beaches of the Coral Sea. This stunning stretch of coast is one of the few places in the world where two of the planet's richest ecosystems converge.

The park's astounding biodiversity includes more than 18,000 plant species and a vast array of animal species, including the cassowary, crocodile, giant blue Ulysses butterfly, and the secretive Bennett's tree kangaroo.

The resort town of Port Douglas just south of the park, is a great base to arrange wilderness safaris into the park.

World Heritage-listed K'Gari (Fraser Island) is one of the most unique places to visit in Australia. Sitting between Bundaberg and Brisbane off Australia's east coast, this is the largest sand island in the world . Here, you'll find seemingly endless stretches of sand and sea, turquoise lakes, emerald rainforests, rippling dunes, and fascinating wildlife.

Looking for an adrenaline rush? A 4WD trip along its surf-thrashed shores is one of Australia's top outdoor adventures . Along windswept Seventy Five Mile Beach , you can see the rusted hulls of shipwrecks, the colored sandstone cliffs of The Cathedrals , and the bubbling fish-filled rock pools called Champagne Pools .

Thirty years ago, you could drive for miles and not see another soul. Today the beach can feel like a sandy highway, with a steady stream of 4WD vehicles and tourist buses plying the sands.

Venturing inland on the rugged tracks is a good way to escape the beach traffic during the peak summer months. Highlights include crystal-clear freshwater creeks and lakes, some fed by springs, others perched amid towering sand dunes; and ancient rainforests filled with an amazing diversity of plants and animals.

Sharks, dolphins, and whales swim these waters, and on land, you can see dingoes, bats, sugar gliders, and more than 300 species of birds.

Nature lovers will find plenty of other things to do on K'Gari Fraser Island . Hop aboard a whale watching trip, take a sunset cruise, hike the rainforest trails at Central Station , float down Eli Creek, or soar over the striking landscapes on a scenic flight.

Access to Fraser Island is by ferry from Rainbow Beach and Hervey Bay , the two main gateway towns. Four-wheel drive vehicles are essential, as the island has no sealed roads.

When it comes to wilderness areas, Kakadu National Park showcases the best of Australia. Covering more than 19,840 square kilometers in the Northern Territory, it's the second-largest national park in the world .

Within its borders, you can explore monsoon rainforests, mangrove swamps, rivers, gorges, ancient rock paintings, wetlands, and waterfalls.

Kakadu is also home to an astounding diversity of wildlife. In addition to the many mammals, reptiles, and fish, more than 300 different species of birds make their home here, and both freshwater and saltwater crocodiles lurk in the wetlands.

To explore the park's diverse ecosystems, hop aboard a cruise along the waterways, or hike the vast network of trails. You can also take a scenic flight.

Visiting Kakadu National Park from Darwin is easy during the dry season. It's about a three-hour drive from the Northern Territory capital. In the wet season (Nov-April), many roads and attractions close due to heavy flooding, but the waterfalls and wetlands can be at their best.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Australia's Northern Territory

Great Ocean Road is one of the world's top scenic drives. Built to provide employment during the Depression, the road stretches for 300 kilometers along Australia's rugged southeast coast, winding along plunging sea cliffs. It stretches from the surfing town of Torquay to the town of Allansford , near Warrnambool .

One of the top attractions of Great Ocean Road is Port Campbell National Park . This is where you can see the wind- and wave-sculpted rock formations known as the Twelve Apostles , London Bridge , the Arch , and Loch Ard Gorge . From the air, these rock formations look like giant puzzle pieces adrift along the coast, lashed by the pounding surf of the Southern Ocean.

You'll find plenty of rewarding things to do along Great Ocean Road. Stop by the Australian National Surfing Museum at Torquay, surf the famous swells at Bells Beach, linger in the seaside resort of Lorne, or go whale watching in Warrnambool .

Nature lovers will also enjoy exploring the eucalyptus forests, fern-filled rainforests, hiking trails, and waterfalls in Otway National Park .

Author's Tip: If you're short on time, my favorite way to experience Great Ocean Road is on a helicopter ride along the coast. Gazing down at the giant rock formations carved from the coast by wind and water is a humbling experience. Lashed by the pounding surf of the Southern Ocean, the rock formations look like giant puzzle pieces adrift on a turbulent sea.

Broome, in Western Australia's north, was once the pearl capital of the world. Today, it's a booming tourist town and the gateway to the spectacular Kimberley region.

Broome's star tourist attraction is Cable Beach. This seemingly endless stretch of white sand and turquoise water is one of Australia's best beaches , and riding camels at sunset is one of the most popular things to do here.

Tourists also flock to Town Beach to witness the Staircase to the Moon. This phenomenon occurs during certain conditions between March and October, where the moonlight creates an optical illusion of steps leading to the moon.

Other Broome highlights include the red cliffs of Gantheaume Point, and the Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park, where you can get up close to crocs, cassowaries, and kangaroos. If you're looking for things to do in town, you can brush up on some local history at the Broome Historical Museum or catch a movie in a deck chair under a star-studded sky at Sun Pictures.

Pearl farm tours, whale watching trips, and Kimberley adventures are also high on the things-to-do list in Broome.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Western Australia

Nature takes center stage at Kangaroo Island. On this unspoiled island off South Australia's Fleurieu Peninsula, kangaroos hop along the powdery shores, sea lions and penguins frolic in the crystal-clear waters, and koalas cling to the fragrant eucalyptus trees.

Diving is also excellent. You can spot sea dragons in the temperate waters, and dive shipwrecks off the island's coast.

Kangaroo Island's top attractions are made by Mother Nature. See the striking, wind-sculpted rock formations, known as the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch in Flinders Chase National Park . Explore vast cave systems. Surf towering dunes and look for wildlife on scenic hiking trails along soaring sea cliffs and through pristine forests.

Foodies, too, will be in heaven. Creamy cheeses, Ligurian honey, and fresh seafood grace the plates in local restaurants.

To get here, you can fly direct to the island from Adelaide, or catch a ferry from Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Kangaroo Island is recovering well from the 2020 bushfires. In fact, several new eco-friendly lodges are slated to open here in 2023.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Australia

Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park is one of Tasmania's tourism treasures and a nirvana for nature lovers. Sparkling lakes, serrated dolerite peaks, alpine heathland, and dense forests characterize the raw, glacier-carved wilderness here. One of the park's most distinctive features is the 1,616-meter Mount Ossa , the highest point in Tasmania.

As you might expect, hiking here is fantastic. Favorite trails include the Weindorfer Walk , a six-kilometer loop through dense forests, and Lake Dove Walk , with breathtaking vistas of Cradle Mountain (1,545 meters). Stand on the summit of Cradle Mountain, and you can soak up stunning views of the central highlands. Experienced hikers can also tackle the famous 80-kilometer Overland Track , which runs south from Cradle Valley to stunning Lake St. Clair , Australia's deepest lake.

While you're exploring the park, keep an eye out for Tasmanian devils, wombats, wallabies, pademelons, and platypus among the many species of weird and wonderful wildlife.

Adventures abound in the Kimberley. Covering Australia's northwest corner, this remote and rugged region of red rocks, gaping gorges, scorched deserts, and cliff-fringed coast is ripe for exploring.

One of the top adventures in the Kimberley is the Horizontal Falls. Powerful tides of up to 11 meters gush through two narrow gorges, creating this jaw-dropping phenomenon. Hop aboard a jet boat and zoom across the sea through the seething falls.

Broome is the gateway. From here, you can soar along scarlet sea cliffs and gaze down upon the 800-plus islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago. Fly farther north to the wild beaches of Cape Leveque, and visit remote pearl farms and Aboriginal communities. Take a 4WD safari along the Gibb River Road , one of Australia's most famous 4WD tracks.

The Kimberley is also home to the spectacular Mitchell Falls and UNESCO-listed Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park . These spectacular beehive-shaped rock formations were only discovered in 1983. Hike the trails, visit sacred Aboriginal ceremonial sites and rock paintings, or soar over the park on a scenic flight and visit the Argyle Diamond mine.

Driving through the Outback can be tough logistically — the distances are vast across this sun-scorched desert region, and you can drive for days without seeing another soul. But gliding through on a luxury train makes exploring Australia's red-hot heart a breeze. It's also a great way to see multiple Aussie attractions in one trip.

You have several train trips to choose from depending on where you want to go. One of the best is the Indian Pacific , Australia's longest train journey. This four-day luxury train trip travels between Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney, whisking you across three states in four days.

Highlights include the Blue Mountains, Broken Hill's art galleries, South Australia's pink lakes, the seemingly neverending Nullabor Plain, and a series of mouthwatering foodie experiences. You can also upgrade your experience with a post-trip tour of vibrant Perth.

Hop aboard The Ghan for another iconic Aussie train trip. From the comfort of a luxury cabin, you can gaze out on the elemental beauty of the desert, while you traverse some of the most remote areas in Australia, including the opal-mining town of Coober Pedy and the Flinders Ranges. Choose between three different routes : Adelaide to Darwin (three days and two nights), Adelaide to Alice Springs (two days and one night), or Darwin to Alice Springs (two days and one night). All these trips can also be taken in reverse.

And if a shorter trip is more your style, opt for the Spirit of the Outback . This 26-hour journey travels from Brisbane to Longreach , in Outback Queensland, where you can delve into some Aussie nostalgia at heritage mining towns like Blackwater and Emerald and visit the Stockmen's Hall of Fame in Longreach.

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Top 10 Cities to Visit in Australia

Once international travel is back on the cards for Australia, you can finally make a start on your long-overdue trip to this unmissable destination. The Australia visa application is easy to complete , so there’ll be no delays once you get planning. Also, there is the Australian ETA available for select travelers.

As the largest country in Oceania , Australia has everything you could possibly want. Whether you’re after sprawling golden-sand beaches, the buzz of thrilling metropolises, or vast landscapes, the cities here have got you covered.

It’s impossible to explore the entire country in one trip, so we’ve put together our top 10 must-see cities to make sure you don’t miss out. There’s a city for every type of traveler, so choose your favorites and jump straight in!

1. Sydney: Chilled Beaches in a Thrilling Metropolis

It goes without saying that no trip to Australia is complete without experiencing New South Wales’ infamous capital city. Explore Sydney’s dreamy surf beaches, scenic harbor, and endless list of impressive entertainment spots.

Whatever your chosen itinerary , it simply must include a visit to some of Sydney’s most well-known sights: the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge.   

2. Melbourne: A Culture and Sports Hit

Known as the home of Australian cricket, Melbourne is the second-largest city in the country and is another must-see city for any trip down under.

It’s more cosmopolitan than other Australian cities due to its international inhabitants, and its architecture has a very European feel about it.

Get lost in its diverse and unique neighborhoods , exploring the city’s rich culture and never-ending sights. Be sure not to miss famous landmarks such as Parliament House, Federation Square, City Museum, and Docklands, before stopping off for some gourmet treats at Queen Victoria Market.

3. Perth – Buzzing City Life Nestled in Nature

Sitting right in the middle of Western Australia’s vast nature, Perth is an up-and-coming metropolis that appeals to both city dwellers and nature lovers.

Stroll along its pristine white sand beaches, indulge in its many wineries, and wander through its historic streets and urban villages. Must-sees include Kings Park, Cottesloe Beach, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, and the historic seaside Port of Fremantle.

4. Brisbane – Idyllic for Water Lovers

The Brisbane River that curls its way through the urban landscape makes this one of Australia’s most unique cities.

Take an electric picnic boat out on the river, cuddle a koala at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, and eat your way through the stalls at Eat Street Market.

The city’s coastline is also dotted with idyllic islands, so once you’ve had your city fix you can take a break with some island hopping . 

5. Gold Coast – Golden Beaches Galore

South of Brisbane you’ve got the Gold Coast, which you’re sure to have heard of. Here you’ve got it all – golden sandy beaches, dense rainforests, and a bustling cultural scene.

If sun, sea, and surf is what you’re craving, here you’ve got it in excess with a host of beaches to choose from – Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, Miami Beach, and Kurrawa Beach. You simply can’t visit Australia without a visit to the Gold Coast .

6. Cairns – A Trip to Nature’s Wonders

Cairns is Australia’s main gateway to explore one of the world’s greatest natural wonders: The Great Barrier Reef.

It’s the world’s largest coral reef system and is so big that it can even be seen from outer space! Swim, dive, snorkel, or sail your way through this ecological marvel. You can bask in even more spectacular nature at the Cairns Botanical Gardens and take a trip on the Kuranda Scenic Railway.

7. Hobart – Sydney’s Rival Steeped in History

Tasmania’s capital city is Australia’s second-largest city after Sydney. It’s also the second-oldest, so it’s full of rich heritage and captivating history to uncover.

Nestled at the entrance to the Derwent River and within the foothills of the mountains, it’s a city of extraordinary beauty.

Be sure to stroll down Hobart’s renowned waterfront, and if you love a challenge, climb up the 4,265-feet-high summit of Mount Wellin g ton for unparalleled views of the city.

8. Adelaide – Take a Break in the Lush Wine Lands

If you’re in a need of a break from the huge metropolises of Sydney and Melbourne, Adelaide gives you small-town coastal vibes to decompress from your city breaks.

Set in stunning green lands, Adelaide is well known for its premium wine regions – perfect for any wine enthusiast.

Take a trip to Kangaroo Island, one of South Australia’s most adored attractions, to see rare and endangered animals roaming around freely in the wild.

9. Darwin – A Tropical Wonder 

This tropical capital city is full of diversity and is the most culturally diverse city in the whole of Australia.

Explore the incredible national parks, Kakadu and Litchfield, which are a short distance from the city, then come back in time to bask in its infamous sunsets. Darwin even boasts a harbor that’s five times the size of Sydney’s!

10. Canberra – Take a Trip Back in Time

If you’re a history buff, then Canberra is the city for you, with a host of heritage buildings, grand government institutions, and captivating galleries and museums.

If you want to get some nature in too, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is only a 40-minute drive away from Canberra and is full of impressive wildlife.

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12 Best Cities to Visit in Australia

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With cool restaurants and bars, markets, museums and green open spaces, Australia’s cities are vibrant places to explore, but the sheer size of the country means you probably won’t get to see all of them during one trip. Sydney and Melbourne might be world famous, but each city in Australia has a uniqueness that can only truly be appreciated with a visit. To help you decide where to go, here is our guide to the top 12 best cities to visit  Australia .

• Nadine Zeià ner

Modern and sophisticated, Sydney is one of the best  cities for tourists to visit on a tour to Australia . With fantastic beaches and the Blue Mountains on the doorstep, you will love Sydney if you enjoy the great outdoors. A vibrant culinary scene means you won’t be short of great places to eat and drink either.

What to see and do: 

• The Sydney Opera House is the city’s most famous landmark, where you can watch dozens of live performances and dine in a top restaurant, Bennelong.
• Nearby, the Harbour Bridge is the perfect spot for taking photos. Climb the 134-meter high Harbour Bridge for panoramic views.
• The Rocks is Sydney’s heritage district, where 100-year-old buildings stand alongside modern galleries and cafes.
• Bondi, with its beach, surfing and laid-back vibe is a must-visit.
• Take to the water in a kayak for a different view of the harbor.
• Sydney’s food and drink are among the best in the world, so dine out at a celebrated restaurant like Quay.
• Whether it's high fashion, indie designer brands or department stores, shop 'til you drop at Sydney's largest shopping malls. 

2. Melbourne

With its vintage shops, graffiti-covered backstreets and coffee culture, Melbourne has earned a reputation as Australia’s capital of cool. The city has plenty to see and do whether you enjoy art or sports. Located on Victoria’s famously beautiful coast, there is plenty of nature and wildlife in Melbourne as well.

• The National Gallery of Victoria is Australia’s oldest art gallery, with a large collection of national and international art.
• The Queen Victoria Market is a foodie’s paradise selling delicious street food and local produce.
• The neighbourhood of St Kilda, with its historic funfair and beach, is an ideal place to spend a chilled afternoon.
• Phillip Island has a famous colony of Little penguins to see.
• Melbourne is famous for street art, so join a tour of the colourful backstreets.
• Dive into the food and drink scene by visiting the craft breweries and coffee shops.
• For the ultimate road trip experience, drive the iconic Great Ocean Road.
• Take a balloon ride over the city.

3. Gold Coast

If you are looking for fun, look no further. Famous for surfing, rollercoasters and nightclubs, the Gold Coast attracts millions of tourists every year. Its iconic coastline stretches for more than 60 kilometres and boasts some of Australia’s best beaches. Surrounded by tropical rainforest and mangroves, it is also an area of natural beauty.

• The Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre offers cultural walking tours and aboriginal dance performances.
• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to native species including koalas, kangaroos and crocodiles.
• The Gold Coast is a top surfing destination so book yourself a lesson at Main Beach.
• Take the kids to one of the many theme parks.
• If you love the outdoors, take a hiking trip — there are many excellent trails in nearby Burleigh Head National Park and Mount Tamborine.
• Go whale watching and encounter the ocean's giants along with other marine animals. 

4. Brisbane

Brisbane is one of the oldest cities in Australia and was home to indigenous people thousands of years ago. Built around the winding Brisbane River, the city boasts riverfront promenades, islands and beaches, making it a playground for water-lovers. You will love Brisbane if you enjoy music, cycling and the outdoors.

• The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art are musts for art lovers.
• Brisbane’s South Bank has lots going on including markets, a swimming lagoon and city beach.
• Mount Coot-tha has panoramic views of the city from the summit.
• On the edge of the city, Lone Pine is the world’s largest koala sanctuary.
• Brisbane is made for adventure-lovers. Climb the Story Bridge for an adrenaline rush and dramatic views.
• Explore Moreton Bay or Kangaroo Point by kayak.
• Try sandboarding on giant dunes on Moreton Island.
• Brisbane is also great for cyclists so hire a bike and explore the city on two wheels.

5. Adelaide

Adelaide is home to some great museums and a lively local food scene. Known for its arty, bohemian vibe, the city always has a packed calendar of cultural events. Sandwiched between the coast and the wine-growing Mount Lofty Ranges, Adelaide is the ideal base for exploring local vineyards.

• The Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA) has a superb collection of national and local art.
• The National Wine Centre is a great place to learn about wine and enjoy a tasting.
• Cleland Wildlife Park is home to native animals including koalas and wallabies.
• Kangaroo Island is a top location for nature and wildlife and is only around two and a half hours from the city by car and ferry. Go on a Kangaroo Island wildlife safari to spot wallabies and sea lions
• The Adelaide region is famous for wine so tour the vineyards in the surrounding Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley, Clare Valley and McLaren Vale.
• Between May and October, watch whales on the Fleurieu Peninsula — just an hour’s drive from the city. 

On the coast of northern Queensland , Cairns is best known as a base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef. One of Australia’s top tourist destinations, the city is popular with foreigners and locals alike. Surrounded by rainforests and wetlands, Cairns will suit you if you love exploring the outdoors.

What to see and do:

• Cairns’ top attraction is, of course, the Great Barrier Reef. Spend some time snorkeling or scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef.
• Upolu Cay, Green Island and Fitzroy Island can all be reached on a day trip.
• Cairns aquarium is the only one in the world dedicated to the Reef’s wildlife.
• On the waterfront, you will find a boardwalk, picnic areas and a saltwater lagoon for swimming.
• Daintree Rainforest, on the outskirts of the city, is the oldest rainforest in the world.
• Wild swim at Crystal Cascades, a series of pools and waterfalls just outside the city.
• Walk or hike in the nearby Atherton Tablelands an attractive region of mountains, rainforests, creeks and scenic waterfalls.

The capital of the Northern Territory, Darwin was inhabited by aboriginal people for thousands of years. Across the sea from Southeast Asia, Indonesian influences are everywhere, from the street food to the craft shops. A city where you can catch a seaplane as easily as catching a bus, Darwin is a great base for exploring the Top End — Australia’s wildest region.

• Darwin’s Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory has an extensive collection, including aboriginal art.
• Mindil Beach has an eclectic market selling everything from indigenous crats to Indonesian food.
• The Darwin Aviation Heritage Centre is dedicated to the Northern Territory's aviation history, with plenty of aircraft on display.
• The Royal Flying Doctor Service tells the inspiring story of the airborne medics.
• It wouldn’t be Darwin without crocodiles, so join a cruise down the Adelaide River and see them in the flesh.
• Dine al fresco on local seafood in the harbour.
• Wander through the mangrove forests in East Point Reserve.
• Book an exciting heli fishing day trip in the remote Top End.
• Hike in nearby Kakadu National Park , Australia’s largest natural reserve.

Friendly, modern, green and boasting an unspoiled coastline, it isn’t hard to see why locals love Perth. Growing as a tourist destination, it has clean sandy beaches, parks and a wealth of great bars and restaurants.

• With its heritage buildings, al fresco restaurants and coffee shops, historic Freemantle is perfect for a day trip.
• The Art Gallery of Western Australia’s collection includes contemporary aboriginal art.
• Kings Park is a vast expanse of green overlooking the river.
• Home to otherworldly rock structures formed 25,000 years ago, the Pinnacles Desert is just two hours’ drive away.
• Perth is famous for beaches so spend a day relaxing at Cottesloe or Metthams Pool.
• Kayak or paddleboard on the beautiful Swan River or around Rottnest Island. Between September and December, join a whale watching boat cruise and see humpback whales in the wild.
• Perth is surrounded by wine regions so enjoy some vineyard tours and tastings in the Swan Valley.

9. Alice Springs

Hot, dry Alice Springs, in the middle of the Red Centre, was home to indigenous people for thousands of years and today is the perfect base for exploring the outback. While it seems to be miles away from anywhere, Alice has plenty of galleries, museums and good restaurants.

• The Araluen Arts Centre specializes in art from Central Australia.
• The Alice Springs Telegraph Station tells the story of the town and the birth of telegraph communication.
• The world-famous Kangaroo Sanctuary is an inspiring place where injured and orphaned kangaroos are looked after.
• And of course, no visit to Alice Springs would be complete without a trip to Uluru (Ayers Rock).
• Camping is the best way to see the beauty of the outback, so head to Yulara or Kings Canyon.
• Another way to see this striking landscape is on foot — so hike a section of the 200 km Larapinta Trail.
• For the ultimate outback experience, take to the skies on a hot air balloon.

10. Byron Bay

Byron Bay is an iconic surf destination and a popular hangout for Australia's in-crowd. With a stunning coastline and breathtaking national parks, Byron is one of the most beautiful spots in Australia. Also known as a wellness destination, Byron is full of retreats and spas offering endless ways to pamper your mind and body.

• Cape Byron is Australia's easternmost natural reserve with breathtaking views from its lighthouse.
• For perfect Instagram photos of the Bay, head to the Captain Cook Lookout.
• Life here is all about relaxing so head to Tallow, Belongil or Clarkes Beach and soak up the sun.
• Grab a surfboard and head to Main Beach.
• Scuba dive in the Julian Rocks Marine Reserve, one of Australia’s best dive sites.
• Byron is also a great city for live music fans so check out a local band in one of the many pubs.

Tasmania’s capital, Hobart, is a place of historic buildings, trendy galleries and modern restaurants, all centred around a stunning waterfront. The city’s food culture is growing as rapidly as its arts scene. On the edge of the vast wilderness of Tasmania, Hobart is perfect for nature and wildlife lovers who don’t want to stray too far from civilization.

• The waterfront is well worth visiting with historic warehouses, a working fishing harbour and plenty of seafood restaurants.
• The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery explores everything from the island’s natural history to its art scene.
• The controversial Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is unmissable.
• Hobart is a city for foodies, so explore the restaurants of North Hobart, browse the Salamanca Market or grab a beer at one of the city’s breweries.
• The city is built on the spectacular Derwent River, so take a cruise or a water-taxi, or better still, take to the river in a kayak.
• Hike up Mount Wellington for magnificent views.
• Hobart is also one of the few places where you can witness Aurora Australis or the Southern Lights.

12. Canberra

Between Sydney and Melbourne, Canberra is one of the best cities in Australia for culture and is brimming with excellent museums, galleries and monuments. It is a modern, clean city that also has plenty to offer outdoor lovers with its huge central lake and bushland in the city.

• Visit the galleries and museums. The National Gallery of Canberra has works by top artists.
• The impressive Australian War Memorial has a museum telling the stories of major conflicts.
• Braddon is full of independent shops, restaurants and coffee shops.
• Lake Burley Griffin is the city’s green haven.
• Enjoy the city’s sophisticated restaurant scene.
• Go bushwalking in Namadgi National Park just outside the city.
• Canberra is also a popular place to try hot air ballooning so take to the skies for a bucket-list experience.

Australia’s cities reflect the chilled-out, multicultural nature of their inhabitants, and wherever you choose to go, you won’t be short of great things to do. If you’ve found our guide to the best cities to visit in Australia useful, why not check out our guide to planning a trip to Australia as well?

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The Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Australia

Posted by Guest Blogger | Updated on Apr 25, 2024 | Published on Jun 22, 2020 | Australia | 0

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.

Australia is a destination that is home to some of the world’s most stunning scenery, exotic wildlife, and culture-rich cities . Travelers from around the world come to enjoy this slice of paradise and to learn about Aboriginal culture along the way. 

Whether you’re interested in buzzing cities, quiet, endless coastline or animal encounters, there’s no end to the number of things to see and do in Australia. The hard part is narrowing down where exactly you should go, so check out our 5 top best places to visit in Australia below for a brief guide. 

Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Australia:

A cosmopolitan city located on Australia’s east coast, Sydney has become a bucket-list destination and for good reason. Adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts and beach babes can all find wonderful experiences in Sydney thanks to the city’s diverse attractions. 

Sydney Harbour is an area where you can easily get lost admiring the sailboats and massive cruise ships. With secluded beaches and coves dotted along the harbour, and views of the sails of Sydney Opera House, you can easily spend a day meandering around some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. 

A trip to Sydney wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of the most beautiful bridges in the world . Not only can you admire the construction and design, but you can also challenge yourself by climbing to the top. If heights are not something you enjoy, head on to Pylon Lookout for a spectacular view of the bridge. 

Take a walk to Bondi Beach via the Coogee to Bondi path . The beach owes its fame to its pristine water, clean white sand, and trendy nearby cafes. You can spend many days here relaxing on the beach or joining in with the surfers. 

2. West Coast of Australia

Stretching more than 400km along the Indian Ocean, the West Coast of Australia is known for beautiful beaches, national parks and an abundance of wildlife. Enjoy whale watching and wine tasting in the Margaret River Region . Otherwise, take a trip to the trendy city of Fremantle in the South West. Live music and great beaches is the name of the game in Fremantle. 

Up north, Broome is a great place to stop if you’re in search of a stunning beach. Nearby Karijini National Park is filled with waterfalls, gorges, and pools. Enjoy the deep turquoise colors of the water, with plenty of viewpoints along the way (most notably the Oxer Lookout with a view over the four mighty gorges).

For big city life, Perth is another destination worth stopping at during your visit to the West Coast. Take in the colorful array of flora in Kings Park and Botanic Garden and enjoy the view over the city’s skyline. Alternatively, spend the afternoon checking out the artwork, restaurants, and bars around Elizabeth Quay . 

3. Cairns & The Great Barrier Reef

A trip to Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef is a must. There are plenty of snorkeling and diving tours available which allow you to lose yourself amongst the colorful coral and brightly patterned marine wildlife. You can go on a day trip from Cairns or go on an overnight boat trip to the reef. Or try a liveaboard scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef !

Back in Cairns, enjoy a ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway where you can view the lush forest from above. The city also has a bustling restaurant and bar scene for anyone looking to hit the town.

4. Melbourne & The Great Ocean Road

In Australia, Melbourne is the capital of cool. Spend your days getting lost in graffiti-lined alleyways and trying to find the best coffee in town. Catch a show from a local Aussie band, hit up the museums and art galleries and go shopping at the Queen Victoria Market . Then when you need a break from the hustle and bustle of city life head to the Great Ocean Road. 

This 243-kilometer stretch is home to vast national parks and jaw-dropping coastal views. With quaint seaside towns to stop at along the way, it’s easy to see why millions of tourists descend upon the route all year round.

Don’t miss a chance to see one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, the 12 Apostles . Most people drive themselves but there are also some tours available to explore this popular road trip route. A 3 day Great Ocean Road itinerary is the perfect amount of time to explore the coast and the top Great Ocean Road attractions but if you are time poor a 2-day trip will suffice.

If you’re looking for something a little bit more off-the-beaten-path in the area, why not go hiking and camping in the Grampians National Park ?

5. Uluru 

Experience the magical atmosphere at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park . Enjoy the tranquility with a spot of bird watching or take a guided tour and learn more about the history of the park. Indigenous rock art can be seen in various areas and has been used to pass on messages and lessons from generation to generation. 

A must-do while in Uluru-Kata Tjuta is to experience the enchanting transformation of the rock as the sun rises or sets. With five dedicated viewing areas to watch this spectacular display of changing colors, you’re guaranteed a good picture opportunity as well. 

We appreciate that Australia is a huge country to travel, and it can be hard to pinpoint exactly which areas you want to visit. Hopefully the above guide will give you a better insight and some tips to make your choice easier! One thing you can be sure of though, wherever you decide to explore in Australia, you’ll be guaranteed some of the most breathtaking views in the world. 

Kiran is of the Great Ocean Road Collective. A website dedicated to sharing the beauty of the Great Ocean Road in Australia will travelers far and wide. If you are planning your trip, need some inspiration or looking for authentic advice on Aussie travel visit our website The Great Ocean Road Australia or check us out on Instagram . 

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Best places to visit in australia and the pacific.

Although costly flights and long travel times can deter some from visiting Australia and its South Pacific neighbors, bucket list destinations like the Great Barrier Reef and the famed Sydney Opera House simply can't be ignored. Should you decide to travel to the region, it's useful to know the best locales to explore – that's where we come in. U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Australia and the Pacific based on user votes, expert opinions and factors like tourist-friendly accommodations and variety of attractions. Help us determine next year's ranking by voting for your favorite destinations below.

South Island, New Zealand

Great barrier reef, whitsunday islands, sunshine coast, kangaroo island, uluru-kata tjuta national park.

Travelers searching for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation should head to this dreamy French Polynesian island for its romantic overwater bungalows (a favorite among honeymooners and Instagrammers alike), luxe spas and stunning white sand beaches. Here, you can spend your vacation exploring animal-filled coral reefs, an aquamarine lagoon, lush jungles and towering mountains. Some tour operators even offer excursions that include shark and stingray encounters. To save money on your trip to the "Pearl of the Pacific," book a vacation package that combines your flight and hotel room.

New Zealand's largest island is a haven for outdoorsy types. Whether you're hiking around turquoise Lake Tekapo, bird-watching on the Otago Peninsula, stargazing from the University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory, cruising Milford Sound or kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, you'll enjoy countless impressive panoramas in this world-famous landscape . When you need a break from nature, check out Christchurch's eclectic street art or Dunedin's 19th-century Larnach Castle & Gardens, or head to the wine region of Marlborough for its unmatched sauvignon blanc. Plus, because of the country's low crime rate, New Zealand is a top destination for solo female travelers .

Visitors travel from around the world to catch a glimpse of Tahiti's beautiful natural scenery, which features everything from tumbling waterfalls to soaring mountains. This French Polynesian island in the South Pacific is also home to unique stretches of sand, such as La Plage de Maui (with proximity to a shallow lagoon ideal for swimming and snorkeling), Papenoo Beach (a black sand beach that attracts surfers in droves) and Taharuu Beach (another black sand option that's popular with families). Away from the beach, travelers can stroll through the capital city of Papeete, explore Tahiti's sister island, Moorea, or unwind at one of the island's extravagant resorts.  

The Great Barrier Reef is easily one of the world's top natural wonders. Its sheer size – the reef stretches across more than 1,400 miles off the eastern coast of Australia – and diversity of life continuously impress visitors. Even though you won't be able to see the entire reef, a helicopter or glass bottom boat tour, or snorkeling or diving excursion of this underwater marvel makes for an unforgettable vacation. For easy access to the reef and Daintree Rainforest, the world's oldest tropical rainforest, base yourself in Cairns or Port Douglas.

Made up of a collection of roughly 300 South Pacific islands, Fiji is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world . For turquoise waters and sparkling white sands, base your stay on the Yasawa or Mamanuca Islands. If you want something more adventurous, spend the day hiking dormant volcanoes, snorkeling around coral reefs or hitting the links at one of Fiji's incomparable golf courses. Just don't forget to save time for learning about Fiji's "bula" spirit and native customs, from firewalking ceremonies on Beqa Island to drinking kava (a plant-based adult beverage).

Located in New South Wales near the foothills of the majestic Blue Mountains, Sydney is part fast-paced metropolis and part laid-back beach town. Here, travelers can spend their days sunbathing at Coogee or Bondi Beach, visiting the museums of Darling Harbour or climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge. What's more, Sydney features cool neighborhoods like The Rocks and fun events, such as Vivid Sydney (a neon light and music show) and the Biennale of Sydney (a multidiscipline arts event held every other year). Plan ahead to catch a performance at the world-class Sydney Opera House, one of the world's most famous landmarks .

This island south of mainland Australia draws thrill-seekers in droves. Hikers can trek challenging paths at Wellington Park and Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park. Water lovers can snorkel, kayak and swim at Freycinet National Park. Tasmania is also home to unique critters, such as platypuses, wombats and Tasmanian devils, which vacationers can see during wilderness hikes or visits to animal havens like the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. After a busy day outdoors, unwind with a locally made cider, wine or whiskey in Hobart or Launceston.

Within view of Australia's northeastern coast, the Whitsunday Islands' 74 islands are a great place to go to enjoy water sports like sailing, snorkeling and Jet Skiing. Hamilton Island (the largest inhabited island of Queensland's Whitsundays) is one of the island chain's most popular vacation spots thanks to its plethora of eateries, upscale accommodations and sprawling white sand beaches with crystal-clear water, such as world-renowned Whitehaven Beach. If you'd rather stay active during your visit, check out Long Island, which features about 10 miles of hiking trails.

Queensland's Sunshine Coast, which stretches roughly between Caloundra and Great Sandy National Park, appeals to everyone from foodies to animal lovers to beach bums. In the heart of the region sits Noosa, a popular beach destination known for its year-round festivals, its Steve Irwin-affiliated zoo and its migrating humpback whales, which you can swim with from July to October. Meanwhile, Coolum Beach offers stunning views of Mount Coolum and excellent surfing conditions. What's more, the Sunshine Coast is home to three UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserves that sit side-by-side, forming Australia's famed biosphere corridor.

As you might expect, South Australia's Kangaroo Island – located off the southern coast of the country – is excellent for wildlife viewing. In addition to being a refuge for its namesake critters, Kangaroo Island is home to echidnas (spiny anteaters), koalas and wallabies. Plus, you'll likely spot aquatic animals like sea lions, whales and little penguins swimming offshore. While you could easily spend the bulk of your visit looking for wild creatures, be sure to save time for a hike through Flinders Chase National Park and a tasting at one of the island's wineries or distilleries.

Melbourne is Australia's events capital, hosting annual activities like the Australian Open and the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. Even if you can't visit for a major event, the city offers a variety of can't-miss attractions, including highly regarded museums and art galleries, Australia's oldest zoo and public libraries filled with rare books and historical artifacts. For a more leisurely vacation, ride on the free City Circle Tram or sip a flat white at one of Melbourne's many coffee shops. When you're ready to venture outside the city, consider a drive along the scenic Great Ocean Road, which begins in Torquay (60 miles southwest).

If you want your next vacation to be filled with outdoor activities, plan a getaway to majestic Vanuatu. Composed of 83 islands, this South Pacific archipelago offers ample opportunities to soak up its stunning scenery. Soar through Vanuatu's lush jungle on a zip line, watch lava erupt from Mount Yasur (an active volcano), dive to remnants of World War II-era ships or hike through the Millennium Cave to misty waterfalls. When you need a break from heart-pumping adventures, lounge on the powdery white sand at Champagne Beach or Eton Beach or take a refreshing dip in one of the many blue holes.

Australia's Gold Coast, which sits about 50 miles southeast of Brisbane in the state of Queensland, offers travelers the perfect blend of a laid-back beach community and a thriving city. Visitors can explore everything from glowworm caves to wildlife sanctuaries to theme parks – all are located within the city's limits. But the main reason to check out this coastal locale is to ride its top-notch waves. Surfers travel from around the world to hang 10 at beaches like Surfers Paradise and Burleigh Heads. While you're here, consider taking a daytrip to nearby Byron Bay, a popular destination featuring top-notch restaurants, yoga retreats and craft breweries.

Head to New Zealand's capital city to get an eyeful of the country's spectacular scenery both on canvas and in person. Wellington is one of New Zealand's largest cities (by population) and it's where you'll find the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa (an institution that displays an impressive collection of Kiwi art and Maori artifacts), plus nature-focused attractions like the Wellington Botanic Garden and ZEALANDIA ecosanctuary. After admiring the flora and fauna in these urban havens, hike to the top of Mount Victoria for a bird's-eye view of the city and harbor.

The cosmopolitan city of Auckland boasts a diverse population that brings unique flavors and traditions to the local culture. Add Auckland's love for sports (think: rugby and bungee jumping) and natural wonders – black sand beaches, lush rainforests and volcanic peaks – and you've got a must-visit travel destination. Save time for a visit to Rangitoto Island: Hikes on this offshore island include treks through lava fields and the world's largest pohutukawa forest. Meanwhile, no visit would be complete without taking in panoramic views of the city from Auckland's iconic Sky Tower, one of the tallest free-standing structures in the Southern Hemisphere.

Adelaide beckons to nature lovers, culture hounds and foodies. Considered the wine capital of Australia, this city boasts hundreds of wineries, including world-famous vineyards like Penfolds Magill Estate and Jacob's Creek. First-time visitors won't want to miss Barossa Valley, an Australian wine region known for its bold shiraz. Plus, gourmands can sample local meats, cheeses, baked goods and more at the Adelaide Central Market before perusing the exhibits at highly regarded museums like the Art Gallery of South Australia and the South Australian Museum. Before leaving, venture to Waterfall Gully to admire its gushing waterfalls and spectacular city views.

When you think of Australia's Outback, chances are you imagine this UNESCO World Heritage-listed national park. At the center of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park lies Uluru (a massive sandstone formation with a red hue) and Kata Tjuta (a group of 36 red geological domes), two sites with cultural ties to the local Indigenous Australian community, called Anangu. Though both locales are breathtaking no matter when you visit, for phenomenal photo-ops, visit at sunrise or sunset.

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Best places to visit in Australia

Australia is a huge country that offers an infinite number of places to discover. You will discover landscapes of all horizons: the impressive Australian cities and their urban side, the rainforest, the mountains, the beach and its breathtaking sea coasts… There are so many places to explore that you don’t always know where to start.

Whatever the case, the most important thing is to have a list of Australia’s unmissable spots at hand. So if you’re wondering what to do in Australia, here’s a selection of our must-sees. If you are planning to travel to Australia for 2 or 3 weeks, you will obviously not be able to do everything. If you want to do the whole country and see all the spots, you’ll have to plan several months and do a road trip in a van / campervan. Otherwise, to do only the East Coast or the West Coast of Australia, count about 3 weeks of Road Trip.

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The largest Australian city, Sydney is a must-see during a trip to Australia! The city is built around a huge harbour and has many tourist attractions, including the world-famous Harbour Bridge and Opera House . It is also full of beautiful bays and beaches, some of which are just steps away from the shopping streets. Finally, the surrounding areas are full of surprises and beautiful places to discover.

❓ Why : Iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. 📍 Where : New South Wales, southeastern Australia. ⛅ When : Year-round, but spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) offer mild weather and fewer tourists.

Read also : 2 days in Sydney – What to do ?

Cairns Area

The second largest city in Queensland, Cairns is primarily known as the starting point for many excursions to the Great Barrier Reef. However, it’s also very pleasant to take a stroll in the city, especially along the Esplanade .

Afterward, cool off in the artificial lagoon at the end of the promenade. This 4,800 square meter saltwater pool is the perfect place to relax and have a good time. The area is full of shaded parks and barbecue spots. There are no beaches in Cairns, due to the presence of many saltwater crocodiles and jellyfish. Additionally, be sure to spend a few days in the heart of the lush Daintree Rainforest .

❓ Why : gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, Esplanade with the lagoon. 📍 Where : Queensland, northeastern Australia. ⛅ When : June to October to enjoy dry, mild weather ideal for reef activities and rainforest explorations.

Read also : 2 days in Cairns – What to do ?

The Great Barrier Reef

With its 2,300 kilometers in length, the Great Barrier Reef is THE largest coral reef in the world (and visible from space). With exceptional natural beauty, it is home to countless marine species: over 400 species of coral, 1,500 species of fish, and 4,000 species of mollusks. It is also the habitat for endangered species such as the dugong or the green sea turtle.

To discover this natural gem in the best way possible, put on a wetsuit and go for a scuba diving or snorkeling session.

❓ Why : The world’s largest coral reef system, perfect for diving and snorkeling. 📍 Where : Off the coast of Queensland. ⛅ When : June to October for the best visibility and weather conditions.

Whitsunday Islands

In the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, discover another marine wonder: the Whitsunday Islands . The archipelago is composed of 74 islands, most of which are uninhabited national parks. The largest of these islands is home to two world-renowned spots: Whitehaven Beach (one of the world’s whitest sand beaches) and Hill Inlet (short walk and its amazing viewpoint). Accessible from Airlie Beach , be sure to explore the Whitsundays in the best way possible: sail, fly, hike, bike, and dive.

❓ Why : Beautiful white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters ideal for sailing and relaxation. 📍 Where : Off the coast of Queensland, near the Great Barrier Reef. ⛅ When : April to November to avoid the wet season and enjoy warm temperatures.

As the capital of the state of Queensland and the third largest city in Australia, Brisbane enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year. The city is crossed by the river of the same name that flows into the Pacific Ocean. Sightseeing boats operate day and night (for free). A cosmopolitan and lively city, it has a great diversity of landscapes as well as admirable architecture . Skyscrapers, artificial beaches, and parks coexist in this modern capital. Don’t miss the SouthBank and Fortitude Valley neighborhoods, which are very popular with locals and travelers and remain lively until late at night.

❓ Why : South Bank Parklands, museums, scenic Brisbane River. 📍 Where : Capital of Queensland, eastern Australia. ⛅ When : Year-round. Visit from March to May (autumn) or September to November (spring) for mild weather and outdoor events.

Fraser Island  (K’gari)

Also known as K’Gari (“paradise” in Aboriginal language), Fraser Island is THE largest sand island in the world. Its 250 km of clear sand beaches and crystal-clear waters are full of secrets. Here, tropical forest and sand dunes coexist. It is the only place in the world where this phenomenon occurs. Fraser has more than 200 freshwater lakes that are superb swimming spots (completely safe). Indeed, the ocean is home to many species of sharks and deadly jellyfish, so don’t swim there!

You will surely spot the famous dingoes of the island, which are not at all shy. Beware, especially with food that they will not hesitate to steal from you. Visiting K’gari is mandatory in a 4WD and is subject to the rhythm of the tides. It is ideal to stay several days on the island to fully enjoy this wild ambiance.

❓ Why : world’s largest sand island, unique ecosystems, rainforests, freshwater lakes like Lake McKenzie. 📍 Where : Off the coast of Queensland, northeast of Brisbane. ⛅ When : May to October to enjoy cooler temperatures, minimal rainfall, and prime whale-watching opportunities.

Read also : Fraser Island – Complete Guide

Jervis Bay is a little paradise on earth. It is home to two national parks ( Jervis Bay and Booderee) as well as a marine park where a multitude of animal species live, some of which are protected. You can meet dolphins, penguins, whales and many other species. You will get lost in the immensity of its white sandy beaches and its clear turquoise waters. Nearby, there are beautiful little towns worth a visit.

❓ Why : stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, Hyams Beach. 📍 Where : 2 hours south of Sydney, East coast ⛅ When : November to April for the best beach weather and marine activities.

Australia’s second largest city and Victoria’s capital, Melbourne is a vibrant city with an incredible cultural heritage . The city is full of museums of all kinds, parks and botanical gardens, lively neighbourhoods and has a characterful architecture! It’s a must-see destination for any visitor.

❓ Why : Known for its cultural diversity, vibrant arts scene, and fantastic coffee. 📍 Where : Victoria, southeastern Australia. ⛅ When : Year-round, but visit in November for the Melbourne Cup or January for the Australian Open.

Read also : 2 days in Melbourne – What to do ?

If you have the opportunity, take the ferry to Tasmania. Very different from the rest of the country, you will definitely fall under the spell of this wild land. Tasmania offers its visitors a wide variety of landscapes : national parks, glaciers, sand dunes and rainforest, but also coastal moors and Edenic beaches. Meet its exceptional wildlife , especially penguins and the legendary Tasmanian devil.

❓ Why : Pristine wilderness, stunning national parks, and unique wildlife. 📍 Where : An island state south of the Australian mainland. ⛅ When : December to February for outdoor activities and festivals.

Great Ocean Road

At 253km long, the Great Ocean Road is Australia’s most beautiful scenic route ! Travellers who choose to take this route will be won over by the beauty of its landscapes. Spectacular views, abondant wildlife (kangaroos, koalas, dolphins, whales…) and rock formations will not fail to amaze you.

❓ Why : A scenic coastal drive featuring the Twelve Apostles and lush rainforests. 📍 Where : Victoria, southwest of Melbourne. ⛅ When : Year-round, but summer (December-February) offers the best weather for beach activities.

Kangaroo Island

Easily accessible by ferry from Cape Jervis, Kangaroo Island is the perfect destination for nature lovers! It is 155 km long and offers a multitude of landscapes. Its protected fauna is also very varied. It is made up of kangaroos and wallabies, koalas, sea lions and sea lions, as well as monitor lizards, dolphins and whales, among others.

❓ Why : kangaroos, koalas, sea lions, and diverse bird species, Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch, and pristine beaches. F 📍 Where : South Australia, southwest of Adelaide. ⛅ When : March to May (autumn) or September to November (spring) for mild weather, fewer crowds, and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.

Combining urban style with natural beauty, Perth enjoys exceptional year-round sunshine. Stroll through its diverse cultural and vibrant neighbourhoods and learn more about Aboriginal culture with a stroll through Kings Park and Botanic Garden. It’s one of the largest city centre parks in the world! Here you can choose from waterfront and vineyards… but don’t miss Rottnest Island and its cute population of smiling quokkas.

❓ Why : Beautiful beaches, a thriving food scene, and proximity to natural attractions like Rottnest Island. 📍 Where : Western Australia. ⛅ When : September to November for wildflower season or March to May for pleasant weather.

Read also : Top things to do in Perth

Margaret River

A traditional land of the Wadandi (‘salt water’) people, the Margaret River region is full of natural wonders . See the local wildlife and explore the surrounding flora. For a unique experience, go underground to discover the crystal caves . You can also walk to Cape Leeuwin, where the Indian and South Pacific Oceans meet.

Activities such as mountain biking, abseiling and rock climbing, helicopter rides and surfing are all available. For foodies, sample the local cuisine by wandering through the farmers’ markets or visiting the local wineries.

❓ Why : world-class wineries, stunning beaches, and limestone caves. 📍 Where : Western Australia, about 3 hours south of Perth. ⛅ When : September to November (spring) or March to May (autumn) for mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and grape harvest season.

A charming little town on the coast (4 hours drive from Perth), you’ll feel right at home in Albany with its cool seaside climate. Its national park, beautiful beaches and coastline, hiking and ancient architecture will soon win you over.

Cycling enthusiasts will be delighted to ride Munda Biddi, which is THE longest off-road cycle path in the world! During the winter and spring months, you are sure to catch a glimpse of the whales migrating along the coastline.

❓ Why : The Gap and Natural Bridge in Torndirrup National Park, National Anzac Centre. 📍 Where : Southern coast of Western Australia, about 4.5 hours from Perth. ⛅ When : September to April for the best weather, outdoor activities, and whale watching opportunities.

White sand and turquoise waters are the order of the day! Welcome aboard this pretty Australian nugget. The stunning seascapes of the seaside town will keep you on your toes for the duration of your stay in Esperance .

Highlights include Lucky Bay and its kangaroos sunning themselves on the beach, Cape Le Grand National Park and its 20km hike to discover incredible marine life, and the candy pink waters of Lake Hillier .

❓ Why : Lucky Bay, where kangaroos can often be seen lounging on the sand, Cape Le Grand National Park, Lake Hillier. 📍 Where : Southern coast of Western Australia, about 7 hours from Perth. ⛅ When : November to March for ideal beach weather, swimming, and outdoor activities.

Kalbarri National Park

The national park has a beautiful white sandy beach at its centre. The surrounding rocky sites are spectacular. The Murchison River carved a magnificent gorge millions of years ago through the red and white sandstone cliffs. The gorge stretches for 80km. After exploring the park, try your hand at a variety of water activities in this ideal location, including rafting, canoeing, abseiling and fishing.

❓ Why : Nature’s Window, Z-Bend, Kalbarri Skywalk. Fantastic hiking, abseiling, and kayaking opportunities. 📍 Where : Mid West region of Western Australia, about 6 hours north of Perth. ⛅ When : April to October to enjoy the mild weather and spectacular wildflower season, which peaks from July to September.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shark Bay covers 2.2 million hectares along the coast. Renowned for its beauty and natural values, its giant seagrass beds, stromatolites, dugong population and numerous marine species make it a haven for wildlife. Among other things, make a mandatory stop at Monkey Mia (to see dolphins up close) and Francois Peron National Park to contemplate its marine and land diversity.

❓ Why : Monkey Mia dolphins, Shell Beach, and the Stromatolites at Hamelin Pool. 📍 Where : Western Australia, about 8 hours north of Perth. ⛅ When : April to October for pleasant weather.

Ningaloo Reef

The largest barrier reef in the world, it is the little sister of the Great Barrier Reef. Ningaloo Reef extends its oceanic paradise over 300 km. This marine park boasts a majestic reef (coral but not only!) and splendid coastal reserves. The Cape Range National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its extraordinary land and sea features. You will be able to see the magnificent specimens of whale sharks that come along the coast every year.

❓ Why : Pristine marine life and the opportunity to swim with whale sharks, manta rays, and humpback whales. 📍 Where : Western Australia, off the coast near Exmouth and Coral Bay. ⛅ When : March to July for the best chance to swim with whale sharks, and April to October for overall good weather and marine activities.

Karijini National Park

Karijini is the second largest state park in Western Australia. This landscape was carved out of the rock 250 billion years ago. You’ll find an impressive number of gorges , cliffs , freshwater falls and chasms in this park. There are some great walks along the rock faces. You can swim and even camp here to observe a remarkable starry sky. The fauna is unique and varied, with red kangaroos, rock wallabies, echidnas, geckos, bats, monitor lizards, snakes etc.

❓ Why : Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge, the impressive Fortescue Falls. 📍 Where : Pilbara region of Western Australia, about 14 hours north of Perth. ⛅ When : May to September to avoid the extreme heat of summer.

The Kimberley

With its 423,000 km² of remote area, the Kimberley region is one of the least inhabited regions on earth. This does not mean that the area should be left out. On the contrary! There are multiple national parks (including the heritage-listed Purnululu and the Bungle Bungles ) waiting to be explored!

And if you head to the coast, you’ll find some of the world’s most beautiful beaches with stunning marine life and magnificent coral atolls. The landscapes are varied and include huge canyons, forests, semi-arid savannah and freshwater springs (which continue into waterfalls). A unique outback experience, immersed in Aboriginal culture.

❓ Why : Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park), Horizontal Falls, and the Gibb River Road. 📍 Where : Northwestern Australia, spanning from Broome to Kununurra. ⛅ When : May to October (dry season) for accessible roads and pleasant weather.

Kakadu National Park

At 20,000 km², Kakadu is the country’s largest national park. It is owned by the Aborigines. It has a strong cultural value due to its ancient rock paintings. Hiking is also a very good way to discover the site and its surroundings. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this national park is a real gem!

❓ Why : Rich in Aboriginal culture, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. 📍 Where : Northern Territory, northeast of Darwin. ⛅ When : May to October during the dry season for easier access and pleasant weather.

Litchfield National Park

Litchfield National Park , about 100km south of Darwin, is as much a must-see as its rival Kakadu National Park. It is a delightful place to swim and cool off with its waterholes , waterfalls and streams. There are many walks along its waterholes for the enjoyment of visitors.

❓ Why : Florence Falls, Wangi Falls, and the Magnetic Termite Mounds. 📍 Where : Northern Territory, about 1.5 hours south of Darwin. ⛅ When : May to October to avoid the wet season and enjoy the best conditions for swimming and hiking.

Nitmiluk National Park & Katherine Gorge

Located 30km north-east of Katherine, this national park covers a large area. It has 13 amazing gorges carved into the sandstone. Its natural hot springs have been fully developed for safe bathing (the water averages 32°C all year round).

❓ Why : Impressive Katherine Gorge, stunning waterfalls and ancient Aboriginal rock art. 📍 Where : Northern Territory, near the town of Katherine. ⛅ When : May to September to enjoy cooler temperatures and lower humidity.

Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park

If there’s one symbol you shouldn’t miss in Australia, it’s the famous Uluru . Also known as Ayers Rock, this monolith is about 600 million years old. Measuring 348m high, most of it lies underground… and no one knows how deep. There are many walks that allow you to admire it from all angles. One of the walks allows you to loop around the rock and discover many natural and historical sites.

50km from Uluru, don’t miss Kata Tjuta National Park , also known as the Olgas. These rocky domes are incredible and there are some great walks to be had here. Put on your walking shoes and take the Valley Of The Winds Walk , which covers the entire site. There are two lookout points with great views over the valley.

❓ Why : A spiritual and cultural icon, offering stunning sunrise and sunset views. 📍 Where : Northern Territory, central Australia. ⛅ When : May to September to avoid the extreme summer heat.

Kings Canyon

Within the Wattarka National Park you will find the spectacular Kings Canyon ! This panoramic landscape will amaze you with its beauty: its 300m high red sandstone walls and rock domes will remind you of the famous American canyons. You will feel tiny in the middle of this immensity. A 6 km hike allows you to cover the entire site while gaining height and then takes you down to the Garden of Eden for a change of scenery.

❓ Why : The Rim Walk is a popular hike that offers panoramic views of the canyon and the Garden of Eden waterhole. 📍 Where : Northern Territory, within Watarrka National Park. ⛅ When : May to September to avoid the extreme summer heat and enjoy pleasant hiking conditions.

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25 Amazing Things to Do in Australia (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: April 29, 2024

If you’re planning a trip Down Under you’re going to want to put as many of these things to do in Australia as you can fit on your bucket list!

Australia’s landscape encompasses everything from hot, dry desert, to white-sand beaches; from snowy mountains to tropical rainforest; from rolling green hills to vineyards and more. 

Because the country is so physically diverse, you can have lots of different adventures during your time in Australia. 

And as there are so many unique things to see and do in Australia, it can be overwhelming to try and plan your trip. 

Even if you have no idea where to start, the good thing about Australia is you can’t go wrong! Culture and natural beauty thrive in all corners of the country. 

This list includes some of the best things to do in Australia, so have a read through and maybe plan your trip around the activities that sound the most appealing. 

Table of Contents

1) Snorkel or Dive the Great Barrier Reef

2) watch the sunrise or sunset at uluru, 3) road trip along the great ocean road , 4) visit wineglass bay , 5) search for pearls in the sea , 6) museum-hop in brisbane, 7) explore kakadu national park, 8) see a pink lake , 9) swim with whale sharks in exmouth, 10) go off the grid in the daintree rainforest, 11) shop at victoria market in melbourne, 12) hike in the blue mountains national park, 13) take a vineyard tour, 14) climb mount kosciuszko, 15) play with quokkas on rottnest island , 16) sail around the whitsunday islands, 17) go skydiving , 18) whale watch in hervey bay, 19) go sand boarding, 20) marvel at the iconic sydney opera house, 21) hike the larapinta trail, 22) visit kangaroo island, 23) learn to surf, 24) visit byron bay, 25) take the train across the country, the best things to do in australia.

Australia’s wide variety of attractions supply adventures for every type of person. 

Sport-enthusiasts and active travellers can go surfing, hiking, snorkelling, scuba diving, or even jumping out of a plane. 

City lovers can visit museums, markets, cafes, and monuments in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth or Brisbane. 

Adventure lovers looking to get off-the-beaten-path can visit the remote Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef or tour the Outback. 

Those who just want a relaxing vacation can enjoy wine-tastings at world-class vineyards and sail through the picturesque islands of Queensland. 

So for anyone wondering what to do when visiting Australia, here are a few of the country’s top activities. 

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Australia with our comprehensive travel guide !

The Great Barrier Reef is arguably the most famous of all the Australia attractions. 

It is the largest coral reef system on the planet, reaching along almost the entire length of the Queensland coastline in northeast Australia. 

In recent years, more attention has been drawn to the degradation of the reef due to things like climate change, pollution and other problems created by humans. 

But because Great Barrier Reef is so huge, parts of it are still beautiful and you can still find all the exotic fish, colourful coral and other marine life that you’ve dreamed of. 

Just be sure to book your tour with an eco-friendly company that promotes preservation and respect for the Great Barrier Reef. 

Most people visit the reef from Cairns , but Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation are two other great places to base yourself for a Great Barrier Reef trip. 

Depending on your preference, experience, and skill level, you can book either a snorkelling or scuba diving tour . Either would be unforgettable. 

Uluru, also called Ayer’s Rock, is the world’s largest monolith, meaning it is the biggest chunk of stone known to man. 

Located near the town of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory, Uluru is basically in the middle of the Outback and it is no walk in the park to reach. 

But for anyone travelling across the Northern Territory, Uluru is an amazing stop to fit into your Australia travel itinerary. 

The massive red sandstone rock looks dreamy in the glow of sunrise or sunset, and the fact that it is sacred to indigenous Australians gives it an extra sense of mystery and magic. 

See what else made the cut on our ultimate list of things to do in Uluru .

Another one of the best things to do in Australia is to head down to Victoria’s south coast and road trip along the Great Ocean Road . 

Whether you have your own car, or you’ve rented one from Melbourne , driving yourself along the Great Ocean Road gives you more freedom and flexibility than a guided tour (though tours are also available for those who want one!). 

This strip of the Australian coastline is rugged and weathered, yet absolutely beautiful. 

Years of erosion have created unique rock formations and caves in the cliffs next to the sea, with the Twelve Apostles being the most famous one. 

In addition to the ocean scenery, the Great Ocean Road is full of charming towns, national parks, campsites, and Port Campbell National Park.

This is also one of the best places in Australia to see a koala in the wild, as many inhabit the Eucalyptus trees down here. 

Tasmania is one of those places that some people may think is fictional, like Transylvania or Madagascar. 

But Tasmania is real. It is that little island off the southeast coast of the Australian mainland, and it is known for its diverse landscape and wild natural beauty. 

Wineglass Bay is one of the most scenic spots on the island. 

The bright white sand of the coastline makes the shape of a wine glass, and the sapphire sea appears to be the wine that fills the glass. 

Mountains tower around the bay, making it an incredible hiking spot and photo opportunity. Definitely do the Wineglass Bay Walk while you’re here, located in Freycinet National Park.

Or if you’re feeling extra adventurous, the Mt Amos Hike at sunrise is next level!

Broome is a beautiful beach town in Western Australia, located on a peninsula that juts out into the Indian Ocean. 

Set in the northern Kimberly region of the state, Broome is quite remote and therefore not many tourists venture out there. 

But those who do make the journey will get to enjoy uncrowded beaches and vibrant sunsets over the ocean. 

A highlight of Broome is the Willie Creek Pearl Farm , where you can learn about the pearling industry during a boat trip out to sea. Another highlight is riding camels across Cable Beach, a 22km long stretch of stunning white sand.

Brisbane is one of Australia’s oldest cities, making it an essential stop during an Australian sightseeing tour for history-lovers. 

There are so many different museums, galleries, and exhibitions around the city. So even if museums aren’t normally your thing, you just might find something that intrigues you. 

On the South Bank lies the Queensland Science Centre and Museum , and in the Brisbane Botanic Gardens , you can find the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium . These are great options for science lovers. 

Those interested in art can head to the GOMA, the Gallery of Modern Art . 

Other art museums in Brisbane include the Queensland Art Gallery and the QUT Art Museums . 

The UQ Anthropology Museum, Queensland Maritime Museum, The Workshops Rail Museum, and the Museum of Brisbane to name a few, are also great options to learn and entertain yourself in the city. 

One of the most incredible sights in the Northern Territory is Kakadu National Park. 

This massive nature reserve is one of the best Australia attractions and it is full of gorgeous sights and fun activities. 

You can go swimming in waterfalls, hiking through the bush, bird-watching in the wetlands, or canoeing along the rivers in this Northern Territory national park. 

There are massive canyons, deep gorges, walking trails, Aboriginal ancient rock art, cultural centres, and more within this national park. 

Kakadu National Park is Australia’s largest national park, and it is located only three hours away from Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory. 

READ MORE: Make the most of your time Down Under with our comprehensive guide to 1, 2 and 3 week Australian itineraries !

One of the most fascinating Australia attractions is the Pink Lake, also known as Lake Hillier . 

The name is 100% accurate. Lake Hillier is home to some unique forms of bacteria and algae that secrete red pigments which make the saltwater appear bright pink. 

Lake Hillier is located on a small island in the Esperance Region of Western Australia. 

This lake is the most famous and the most photographed. But Australia has a few other pink lakes that aren’t as well known, such as Lake Kenyon, Lake Crosbie and Lake Becking in Victoria. 

All the lakes are located in quite remote areas, but if you’re planning a cross country road trip in Western Australia, try to fit them into your route!

READ MORE: Check out these great adventure activities in Australia !

One of the most mind-blowing things to do in Western Australia is swimming with whale sharks!

The best way to accomplish this is to head to the town of Exmouth in Western Australia and then book a guided tour with locals out to Ningaloo Reef. 

Whale sharks are massive but completely harmless, and between March and August every year, they congregate near Ningaloo Reef to feed. 

So if you book a tour here during that time you are pretty much guaranteed to swim with these gentle giants!

While you’re in the area check out all these other epic things to do in Exmouth .

For nature and adventure lovers wondering what to see in Australia, the Daintree Rainforest has to be at the top of your list. 

This dense jungle is roughly 180 million years old , making it the oldest tropical rainforest on the planet. 

Here you can find trees the size of skyscrapers, palm forests, mangroves, and an abundance of unique wildlife. 

One of the strangest and most fascinating creatures in the Daintree Rainforest is the cassowary, a giant, ostrich-like bird with vibrant colours on its neck and a huge horn on its head. You won’t believe they’re real until you see one!

The best way to reach the Daintree Rainforest is to fly into Cairns and then take the local bus up to Cape Tribulation. 

The rainforest is very remote and it is recommended you have a 4WD if you are driving yourself. 

Cell phone reception is extremely limited as well, so use this time to switch off and immerse yourself in the jungle. 

Melbourne is a massive metropolis packed with culture, entertainment and cuisine.

Though there are tons of fun things to do in the city, one of the best ones is to visit the Victoria Market.  

If you only have a short time in Melbourne, this is the place to go.

This sprawling indoor and outdoor market hall is filled with local crafts, tacky souvenirs, fresh produce, delicious hot meals, graffiti art, street performers and much more. 

There is a lot of cheap, amazing food and cool handicrafts all packed together in one area, so this is the perfect introduction to Melbourne.

Head to one of the nearby cafes afterwards and order a trendy coffee to really dive in to the Melbourne lifestyle.

Located just west of Sydney is a gorgeous mountain range known as the Blue Mountains . 

Here you can find towering forests of gum trees, rivers, waterfalls, canyons, and immense valleys that look like they have never been infiltrated by a human. 

If you’re yearning to immerse yourself in nature without venturing too far from civilization, the Blue Mountains National Park is ideal. 

It only takes about an hour by local train to travel as a day trip from Sydney to Katoomba, one of the main towns in the Blue Mountains National Park. 

From here you can go on hikes, visit waterfalls, or camp in the wilderness. 

Dare-devils can also try more extreme activities like waterfall rappelling or rock-climbing. 

Australia’s wine doesn’t get as much attention as the wine of other countries like France, Italy, South Africa, Argentina, or even its neighbour, New Zealand. 

But Australia’s wine is becoming even more well-known around the world, and for good reason!

The landscape of Australia is so rich and diverse that it is able to grow delicious grapes of many different varieties and turn them into amazing wine. 

As a traveller, taking a vineyard tour and tasting the local wine is a very fun and enlightening experience. 

Two of the most successful wine regions in Australia are Margaret River in Western Australia and Adelaide in South Australia. 

So if you like wine, definitely book a guided vineyard tour in one of these locations to learn about the wine and taste it right from the source. 

Mount Kosciuszko is the highest mountain in mainland Australia, making it a popular destination among hikers. 

Located in Kosciuszko National Park in southern New South Wales, the mountain boasts lovely natural scenery, few other tourists, and well-marked hiking trails. 

The hike is 13 km round-trip and generally takes about 4-6 hours depending on your fitness level.

December through March is the best time to hike in Kosciuszko National Park because there won’t be any snow (Yes, there is snow in this region of Australia!)

READ MORE: Before you go be sure to read this guide to climbing Mount Kosciuszko

When visiting Perth , the capital of Western Australia, take a day trip to the nearby Rottnest Island for a fun-filled experience. 

Rottnest Island is a nature reserve filled with gorgeous beaches and interesting local wildlife. 

The ocean here is great for swimming, snorkelling, and surfing, though it’s the Australian animals on land that tend to attract the most visitors. 

Rottnest Island is home to the quokkas , which are small and adorable marsupials that look a little bit like wallabies. 

They are native to Australia, and Rottnest Island is one of the few places in the country to find them. 

The island is also home to seals and sea lions that you might be able to spot while exploring, as well as some of the nicest Perth beaches around.

If the white sand and vibrant turquoise waters of the tropics have always caught your eye, head to the Whitsunday Islands and the nearby town of Airlie Beach!

These islands off the coast of Queensland have jaw-dropping natural scenery rivalling that of the Maldives, Fiji, or Tahiti. 

One of the best things to do in Australia is sailing through the Whitsundays and soaking in all the picturesque views. 

Exploring the islands by boat allows you to cover more ground and see more of the area, though simply lounging on the beach is pretty enjoyable too.

You can also go swimming and snorkelling, or fly in a helicopter or seaplane over the islands to get an aerial view. 

Read next: Top Things To Do In Airlie Beach

For thrill-seekers wondering what to do in Australia, why not go sky diving?

Sky diving is available in lots of countries around the world, but if it has been on your bucket list for a while now, try it out while travelling in Australia!

In all major tourist destinations around the country, there are tour companies offering sky diving. 

The thrill of launching yourself out of a plane and free-falling through the air is probably incredible regardless of where you do it. 

But many travellers choose more scenic areas of Australia to try their first skydive. 

Some of the best places to skydive in Australia include Rottnest Island in Western Australia, Wollongong or Byron Bay in New South Wales, Mission Beach in Queensland, or Lee Point Beach in the Northern Territory.

Located next to the world’s largest sand island, K’gari (Fraser Island), is a hidden gem of Queensland: Hervey Bay . 

If you like wildlife photography, marine life, or anything animal or ocean-related, visit Hervey Bay and prepare to have your mind blown. 

Known as one of the best places in the world for whale-watching, Hervey Bay is an amazing place to see humpback whales up close. 

You can probably spot some whales from the shore in between late July and early November , as the bay becomes filled with whales during peak season. 

But it is definitely worth taking a whale watching tour so you can see the majestic giants up close on the water!

In the coastal town of Port Stephens , New South Wales, you’ll find some of the largest sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. 

The best way to experience these dunes is sandboarding; leave it to the Aussies to find a way to surf, even on the sand!

If you book a sandboarding tour from Port Stephens, you can ride in a 4WD out to Stockton Beach and be provided with the right gear to enjoy a day of boarding down the sand dunes.

No trip to Sydney is complete without seeing its most famous landmark: the Sydney Opera House. 

This modern and unique building took 14 years to build and was designed by Danish architect, Jørn Utzon. 

The Sydney Opera House is now a staple of the Sydney skyline. 

You can take a tour of the inside, attend a performance, or simply stroll through Sydney Harbour and admire the view from the outside. 

After admiring the Opera House, stroll around Sydney Harbour and walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, another iconic landmark in the city.

A great way to get outdoors and explore more remote areas of Australia is hiking the Larapinta Trail. 

This is one of the best activities in Australia for those who want to experience real bushwalking, and it is located in the Northern Territory. 

The whole trail is about 223 kilometres long, but you can choose to just hike sections of it if you prefer. 

At the western end of the trail lies Mount Sonder , one of the state’s largest mountains, and at the eastern end of the trail lies Alice Springs, the town in which most travellers base a trip to Uluru. 

READ MORE: Be sure to read this hiking guide before trekking the Larapinta Trail!

Located off the coast of South Australia, Kangaroo Island is definitely one of the best Australia attractions. 

It is Australia’s third-largest island and is packed with nature reserves, diverse landscapes, and plenty of wildlife. 

There are, of course, kangaroos on the island, and they are actually a specific species of kangaroo that cannot be found on the mainland. 

Other animals you can find on Kangaroo Island include koalas, wallabies, platypuses, lizards, sea lions, echidnas, seals, and native birds.

In addition to the wildlife of Kangaroo Island, South Australia, you can also see caves, unique rock formations and arches, national parks, beaches, and charming tourist towns.

Many people probably assume Aussies are all laid-back surfers with long hair and bare feet. 

Of course, not every Australian is a surfer, but many of them are. 

Australia is home to some of the best waves in the world, and the surf culture is very strong along the country’s coast. 

If you’ve always been intrigued by surfing and wanted to give it a try, Australia is the perfect place to learn. 

The temperature is favourable, the beginner-sized waves are plentiful, and the local instructors are always friendly and knowledgable. 

Some of the best places to learn to surf in Australia are the Sydney beaches such as Bondi and Manly, the Gold Coast, Surfer’s Paradise, and Noosa , all located on the coast of southern Queensland.

So book yourself a surf lesson and learn to ride the waves like the Aussies!

Byron Bay is a laid-back coastal town in northern New South Wales that is famous for its backpacker scene. 

There are countless hostels, cafes, and cheap restaurants, as well as surf shops, vintage clothing shops, and organic health food shops. 

You’ll find interesting street art plastered all over the town walls and lots of classic hippie vans parked everywhere. 

Byron Bay has fun nightlife and lots of amazing beaches. Try hiking the coastal walk up to the Byron Bay Lighthouse for a great view of the area.  

For a once-in-a-lifetime journey that not many others get to do, embark on a train journey across Australia . 

The country is so huge and long-distance train travel isn’t very common, so few people even know about the cross-country Australian train routes available. 

The Ghan is the train journey that runs from Darwin in the north to Adelaide in the South. 

The Indian Pacific is the train journey that runs from Sydney in the east to Perth in the west. 

These train journeys are expensive and long, so they’re not ideal for budget travellers or backpackers with limited time. 

But for those who want to splurge on a cool adventure and travel slowly through the countryside and admire the scenery, the train is a cool idea.

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Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Excellent article!

Hey, awesome post! I am planning to travel to Australia this September. And one of the things in my bucket list is to go cruising in Whitsundays. Hoping to catch a glimpse of the Humpback whales too. Fingers crossed!

Awesome post!

Thank you so much 🙂

Hi! Always wanted to learn how to surf, I’m going to Australia in September and wanted to get at it but feel a bit scared about all the dangerous animals that are supposed to be in the water?? Haha Do you know if they have some kind of prevention/caution system or something?

Most of the animals you are likely to be worried about are not a problem in the shallower water. There are normally signs at the beaches but just ask the locals, and try to stay at beaches with lifeguards working there. The also you can google local beaches and there is normally pretty accurate info on the current weather conditions and if there is a lot of Jellyfish in the water ect. September is a good time to come actually. Just be nice and ask one of us who live there. We are more than happy to help and pretty good at managing the local wildlife. We have been doing so for a while. Honestly the bigger problem tends for tourists tend to be strong currents and rips. But same solution as before, ask the life Don’t swim out beyond your depth, talk to the locals / life guards and pay attention to the signs! Don’t read them then ignore them. That is how accidents happen. But really don’t worry you will be fine and have a good time I’m sure. Australia is beautiful. from the coast to the mountains and rainforests. I’ve lived here all my life and I’m still blown away by the Australian landscapes and I’m lucky to call this country my home. I hope you see something beautiful and enjoy yourself in the land down under 🙂

Wow, after seeing this, it made me want to go to Australia as well! Before that I am travelling to Italy, so I am adding that one on my bucket list! Stay safe,

So glad this article inspired you. Australia really is a stunning country. There is so much more to the country than beautiful beaches. Have a great trip when you get here.

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8 Of The Best Cities in Australia to Visit

From sprawling metropolises to charming capitals, Australia has plenty of beautiful & exciting cities to tempt travellers. Most of the best cities in Australia to visit are on the east coast, but travellers will be rewarded for heading a little farther afield to less obvious spots like Hobart, Adelaide and Perth. The best cities to visit in Australia are Melbourne, Sydney, the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Hobart, Fremantle, Adelaide & Perth. I’ve lived in Australia for most of my life – I grew up in Brisbane , spent countless weekends and holidays on the Gold Coast and have lived in Melbourne for six years. After nearly thirty years of living in & travelling around Australia, here are my top picks for travellers, whether you’re coming for your first trip or are a local looking to see more of your own back year. Read on for my take on the best cities in Australia to visit!

Melbourne is the best city in Australia, if you ask me. I moved to Melbourne when I was 22, and have lived here for eight years (with a two-year break in New York City in between!). Considered Australia’s cultural capital, it’s the best city in Australia for enjoying the food, wine, culture, history, sport & shopping all rolled into one delightful package. Spend a long weekend exploring by neighbourhood & enjoying the city’s beautiful architecture, thriving hospitality scene and vibrant cultural life.

The Best Things to do in Melbourne

• Melbourne’s neighbourhoods are full of character – start with Carlton, Fitzroy & St Kilda
• Enjoy the best restaurants & bars in the country
• Experience a leading arts & cultural scene – see what’s on at The Arts Centre or the NGV

Explore more: Melbourne Travel Guide

Sydney is Australia’s largest city, and a must-visit destination on a first trip to Australia. It’s home to Aussie icons such as Bondi Beach, the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge. I love the beach lifestyle in Sydney, and how you can live in a big city but still be so close to the ocean. It does make me daydream about moving there sometimes! I’ve visited Sydney more times than I can count, but my favourite way to enjoy the city is to rent an Air BnB in Bondi and enjoy the laidback beach lifestyle between Bondi, Bronte and Coogee.

The Best Things to do in Sydney

• See world-famous sights like the Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge
• Visit Bondi Beach & hike the stunning Bondi to Bronte coastal walk
• Take the iconic Manly Ferry across Darling Harbour & spend a day at the beach

Explore more: Sydney Travel Guide

The Gold Coast has a reputation for being all glitz and glam, but in recent years it has leaned into its natural assets and attracted top talent from across the country who appreciate the fresh sea air, gorgeous white sand beaches and laidback lifestyle. I grew up very close to the Gold Coast, and have spent countless holidays there in my thirty years! The Gold Coast is changing all the time, and with every passing year I appreciate the beaches & the surrounding national parks even more. Spend three days on the Gold Coast for your first visit.

The best things to do on the Gold Coast

• Enjoy some of Australia’s most beautiful & iconic beaches – my favourite is Burleigh
• Go whale watching to see majestic humpback whales
• Relax in laidback beach neighbourhoods like Burleigh Heads & Mermaid Beach

Explore more: Gold Coast Travel Guide

Australia’s fastest growing city feels distinctly different to its larger counterparts, Sydney and Melbourne. Brisbane was once regarded as a bit of a backwater, but it’s been growing for decades – and these days, it’s getting cooler by the minute. Southbank is touristy but beautiful, especially for first-time visitors to the city, and developments like Howard Smith Wharves and James Street are the perfect spots to build a weekend around. Three days is the perfect amount of time for your first trip to Brisbane, followed by side trips to the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast.

The best things to do in Brisbane

• Take in the river city’s best views over dinner & drinks at Howard Smith Wharves
• Explore Brisbane’s lush Southbank Parklands
• Enjoy a warm, sunny subtropical climate & laidback pace

Read more: Brisbane Travel Guide

Charming Hobart is the capital of Australia’s pristine island state, Tasmania . This charming harbor town is now regarded as one of the coolest cities in Australia, thanks in no small part to the eccentric Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) . I love visiting Hobart as an easy weekend break from Melbourne – it’s just a 45 minute flight!

The best things to do in Hobart

• Taste the difference in local produce – pristine surrounds produce some of the best seafood, spirits & fruit and vegetables in the country
• Visit the most talked-about art gallery in the country, MONA
• Enjoy a charming, compact & walkable capital city

Explore more: Why Visit Hobart? Falling for the Capital of the Apple Isle

Fremantle is Western Australia ‘s second city, just a short train ride from Perth . The historic streets of Fremantle are so beautifully preserved that it feels a bit like you’ve stepped back in time, or are walking around a movie set! I’ve visited Fremantle twice, and found it completely magical on both visits. To visit Fremantle, you could stay in town, or as I did, stay in Perth and make a day trip by train (just 20 minutes).

The best things to do in Fremantle

• Explore one of the best preserved historic town centres in the world
• Craft beer & spirits: Visit Gage Roads Brew Co on the waterfront or Republic of Fremantle gin distillery in town
• It’s a perfect place to wander – a beautiful setting & dozens of small cafes, shops, art galleries and restaurants

Adelaide may be small, but it oozes personality. Nicknamed “Radelaide”, the capital of South Australia has made a name for itself in food, wine & the arts. Located just a stone’s throw from some of the premier wine regions in the country, the bars and restaurants along Leigh & Peel Streets give the hospitality scene in much bigger cities a run for their money. Every February, the city comes to life with the Adelaide Fringe Festival , the biggest arts festival in Australia.

The best things to do in Adelaide

• Experience Adelaide’s thriving restaurant & bar scene on Leigh Street & Peel Street
• Eat your way around the Adelaide Central Market
• Take a day trip to world famous wine regions, The Barossa Valley , Adelaide Hills & McLaren Vale

Perth may be the most remote capital city in the world, but don’t let that deter you! Like Brisbane, Perth has been busy growing up into a cool capital city and learning how to march to the beat of its own drum. I first visited Perth only to apply for my US working visa, and I was blown away by how beautiful the city is. I visited again in early 2023, and loved spending a couple of days enjoying Cottesloe Beach and exploring more of the city. Perth has some of the most beautiful city beaches in the country, including Cottesloe & City Beach.

The best things to do in Perth

• Visit one of the city’s 19 beautiful beaches, including the iconic Cottesloe Beach
• Take a day trip to Rottnest Island, home to the only quokkas in the world
• Explore King’s Park, an 1000-acre parkland in the heart of the city

Read more: 48 Hours in Perth

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