australia top 3 tourist attractions

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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Australia’s 20 best travel experiences, ranked by Lonely Planet

Choosing Australia’s top travel experiences is not easy, and while many usual suspects appear in Lonely Planet’s list, some may even surprise locals

At 7.6m sq km, spanning eight climate and three time zones, Australia is a big country. So where do you start?

In making their new book, Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Australia Travel List, the travel guide publisher began by compiling every highlight in their existing books. “We then asked our writers, editors, designers and cartographers in Australia to reveal their favourite spots and experiences,” they say. From there, they solicited votes from a panel of travel experts and members of their community.

The result, “with hundreds of votes cast and a bit of mathematical alchemy, as well as a keen eye on sustainability practices”, is a new book of 500 experiences. They also ended up with “one very clear winner”.

Here is that winner, along with the rest of the book’s Top 20 experiences.

1. Fall silent before the majesty and gravitas of Uluru

Northern Territory/ Anangu Country

The landscape of Uluru changes dramatically with the shifting light and seasons. In the afternoon, Uluru appears as an ochre-brown colour, scored and pitted by dark shadows.

As the sun sets, it illuminates the rock in burnished orange, then a series of deeper and darker reds before it fades into charcoal. A performance in reverse, with marginally fewer spectators, is given at dawn.

Uluru is a beautiful, charismatic place. Its dimensions are one thing: it is 3.6km long and rises 348m from the surrounding sands (867m above sea level). If that’s not sufficiently impressive, remember this: two-thirds of the rock lies beneath the sand.

Uluru is a monolith textured with layers of profound spirituality and timeless beauty, the epitome of desert stillness and, in the plays of light and shadow that dance across its surface, one of the richest shows in nature. The sunset viewing areas are once-in-a-lifetime experiences understanding its singular beauty when surrounded by the vast desert around it.

You can also get up close by taking one of the walks that encircle the base. There are many options, but most fold into the Uluru Base walk, a 10.6km circumnavigation of the rock. Along the way, it passes caves, paintings, sandstone folds and geological abrasions and generally initiates you into the scope and detail of this remarkable place.

Sacred sites are everywhere; entry to and knowledge of the particular significance of these areas is restricted by local law, and knowing this only adds to Uluru’s mystery.

The walk takes you away from the crowds – very few visitors spend long enough here to get to know Uluru this well. There is no better way to experience the rock.

Around 1km from the rock itself, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre adds depth and perspective to your Uluru experience. Displays and exhibits focus on Tjukurpa (Aboriginal law, religion and custom) and on the natural and human history of the park. Park rangers can supply the informative visitor guide, leaflets and walking notes, as well as other park information.

2. Be confronted and inspired by art at the extraordinary Mona

Tasmania/ Palawa Country

Undeniably eccentric, the Museum of Old and New Art (almost universally known as Mona) has ushered Hobart on to the world’s cultural stage.

Opened in 2011, and housed in a Nonda Katsalidis-designed three-storey bunker burrowed into the Triassic sandstone of a peninsula jutting into the Derwent River, Mona is a showcase for founder and owner David Walsh’s remarkable collection of ancient, modern and contemporary art, which is loosely curated under the themes of sex and death.

All cultural roads lead to Mona in January (for Mona Fofa, or Mofo for short) and June (for Dark Mofo) for Tasmania’s largest contemporary music festival.

SEE IT! Mona is 12km north of Hobart’s city centre. The best way to get here is on the museum’s ferry, which departs from Brooke St Pier.

3. Be mesmerised by the Great Barrier Reef

Queensland/Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sea country

The Great Barrier Reef isn’t just the world’s largest living organism. Visible from outer space, it’s also one of the planet’s most precious ecosystems – and a gobsmackingly beautiful one to boot.

Home to more than 600 hard and soft coral species and a colourful array of other marine creatures, from tiny nudibranchs (sea slugs) to huge manta rays, this World Heritage-listed area also has cultural significance to more than 70 local Indigenous groups, their connections to the reef dating back some 60,000 years.

It’s no secret, of course, that the Great Barrier Reef faces a number of threats. Yet from coral planting dive trips to Indigenous-led reef tours, there are more opportunities than ever to experience this fragile ecosystem sustainably, helping to ensure that this incredible slice of nature can be enjoyed for generations of visitors to come.

4. Find freedom on the Great Ocean Road

Victoria/ Gadubanud and Girai wurrung Country

As its name rightfully declares, the Great Ocean Road is no ordinary stretch of bitumen. This is one of the world’s bucket-list drives, a 243km blockbuster of breathtaking coastal vistas, koala-speckled gums, nostalgic holiday towns and rolling dairy farms. Officially bookended by Torquay and Allansford, the route takes in the arresting beauty of Port Campbell national park.

The entire drive can be tackled as a long day trip from Melbourne, though it pays to stay longer. Spend at least a few days riding waves and horses on Fairhaven Beach, chomping on fresh crayfish at Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op and snooping around time-warped sites like Cape Otway Lightstation.

The Great Ocean Road weaves through Great Otway national park, where walking trails lead through temperate rainforest splashed by waterfalls. If you fancy a multi-day trek, ditch the wheels altogether and hit the 104km Great Ocean walk, the most intimate way to experience this fabled stretch of surf.

5. Walk alongside Australia’s highest sea cliffs on the Three Capes track

Tasmania/Palawa Country

Any list of epic Australian bushwalks is bound to contain the Three Capes track. Traversing a well-maintained path alongside the lofty sea cliffs in Tasman national park, this four-day, 48km trek kicks off after walkers are dropped by boat at the Denmans Cove trailhead.

The route links the cove with Cape Raoul, Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy before finishing on the sandy shores of Fortescue Bay. Scenery includes eucalypt forests, coastal heathland and ocean views for as far as the eye can see.

Accommodation is in ranger-supervised camps with architect-designed huts that are almost as good looking as the eye-popping coastal scenery.

You’ll walk up the slopes of Crescent Mountain and Mt Fortescue and down to Ellarwey Valley, seeing native flora and fauna aplenty. Daredevils can scale the well-named Blade Rock formation at Cape Pillar and plunge into the icy surf at Fortescue Bay. The track is described as being achievable for most ages and abilities, but some bushwalking experience is recommended.

WALK IT! Tasman national park is 100km south-east of Hobart. Boats collect walkers at Port Arthur. Daily walker numbers are capped, so book well ahead .

6. Explore the weird and wonderful rock formations of Bungle Bungles

Western Australia/ Jaru And Gidja Country The bizarre, ancient, beehive domes of the World Heritage-listed Purnululu national park will take your breath away. Known colloquially as the Bungle Bungles, these remote rocky ranges are the finest example of cone karst sandstone anywhere in the world.

The distinctive rounded rock towers are made of sandstone and conglomerates moulded by rainfall over millions of years. To the local Gidja people, “purnululu” means sandstone, with Bungle Bungle possibly a corruption of “bundle bundle”, a common grass. The park is rich in fauna and flora, the walks take you through shady palm-fringed gorges, and the sunsets here are sublime. There’s refreshingly little infrastructure and it’s never crowded.

SEE IT! Access is via a rough, unsealed, flood-prone 4WD-only track from the Great Northern Hwy north of Halls Creek, or by air on a package tour from Kununurra or Warmun. For more information, visit www.parkstay.dpaw.wa.gov.au .

7. Enjoy the ultimate rainforest experience in Daintree national park

Queensland/Kuku Yalanji Country

The oldest tropical rainforest on the planet, the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest is like a real life Jurassic Park, complete with living dinosaurs, from cassowaries to crocs.

South of the Daintree River, the Indigenous-run Mossman Gorge is the most accessible of the park’s two sections. Here an elevated boardwalk tracing the crystal-clear Mossman River connects to a scenic 2.4km rainforest circuit. Learn more about the Kuku Yalanji connections to this verdant oasis on a tour with Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks.

Some say you haven’t been to the Daintree until you’ve visited the Cape Tribulation section of the park north of the Daintree River, where rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. Allow several days to soak up this lush wilderness, dotted with rainforest boardwalks and idyllic croc-free swimming holes.

SEE IT! From Port Douglas it’s a 20-minute drive west to Mossman Gorge, and a 40-minute drive to the Daintree River Ferry.

8. Set sail for Kangaroo Island’s wilderness and wildlife

South Australia/Kartan Country

Kangaroo Island (KI) was scorched by bushfires in Australia’s “Black Summer” of 2019–20, but remains a veritable zoo of seals, birds, dolphins, echidnas and (of course) kangaroos. Island produce (wine, seafood, gin, beer), surf beaches and the kooky rock formations of Flinders Chase national park are also highlights.

These days, KI is rurally paced with a scattering of laid-back towns – the kind of place where kids ride bikes to school and farmers advertise for wives on noticeboards. The excellent five-day, 64km coastal Kangaroo Island Wilderness trail was ravaged by the fires, but trail reconstruction is under way: watch this space.

SEE IT! KI is big! You can’t see it all in a day. Bring your car on the ferry and explore over a weekend.

9. Marvel at the Milky Way in the Warrumbungle Dark Sky Park

New South Wales/Kamilaroi Country The night sky unrolls around you each night in the Warrumbungle national park, Australia’s first and only Dark Sky Park. The 233 sq km park has been internationally recognised for its stunning views of the stars due to its high altitude, low humidity and carefully monitored light pollution.

With four observatories to choose from, you can stargaze well into the night. Siding Springs Observatory is home to the largest optical telescope in Australia – with a mirror measuring 3.9m, the Anglo Australia telescope is capable of viewing quasars up to 12bn light years away.

The Warrumbungles still have plenty to offer once the sun rises. Avid bushwalkers are sure to enjoy the rugged volcanic landscape. The Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk will bring you close to the park’s most impressive formations. With over 190 bird species recorded within the park, birdwatchers should be sure to look out for emus, wedge-tailed eagles and the southern boobook owl.

For a more relaxing option, take a trip along the world’s largest Virtual Solar System Drive. The dome of the Siding Springs Observatory represents the sun, with scaled model planets stretching the whole 200km to Dubbo.

10. Light up your time in Sydney at the Vivid festival

New South Wales/Gadigal Country

During Vivid Sydney, video art and massive images are projected on to Sydney’s iconic architecture, with the sails of the Opera House, the arches of the Harbour Bridge and the sandstone buildings of the Rocks all transformed into leviathan canvases for a shimmering collage of spotlights, laser beams and electrified sky-high street art.

Journey on the harbour at night on the Manly Ferry for brilliant views, or join a chartered boat trip to take in the best of the glowing spectacle. Beyond the illuminations, music is also a stunning part of the Vivid experience, from big international artists to more intimate performances from the best of Australia’s emerging talent.

SEE IT ! The festival is held annually for three weeks. The 2022 festival will take place from 27 May to 18 June.

11. Go wild on mainland Australia’s southernmost point, Wilsons Prom

Victoria/Brataualung Country

Hitting rock bottom is a good thing when it involves Wilsons Promontory. Occupying the southernmost point of mainland Australia, the 305 sq km national park claims some of Victoria’s most varied, magnificent natural landscapes: salt-white Squeaky Beach, the Saharan dunes of the Big Drift, the lushness of Lilly Pilly Gully.

Walking tracks lead over ridges, across heathland and through headily scented bush alive with kangaroos, wombats, echidnas and iridescent birdlife. The Telegraph Saddle to Sealers Cove route (10.3km) is especially memorable, weaving through fern gullies and swampland to a forest-backed beach. It’s the first section of the challenging, multi-day Southern Circuit (59km), whose stops also include the monumental Oberon Bay.

A much quicker way to admire the bay’s sweep is from panoramic Mt Oberon, an easy 6.8km return hike from the Telegraph Saddle car park. Head up at sunset and pinch yourself. SEE IT! Tidal River is the park’s hub, with visitor information, a general store and accommodation. Avoid school holiday periods and book accommodation in advance at www.parks.vic.gov.au .

12. Experience wildlife and Indigenous history in Kakadu

Northern Territory/ Bininj/Mungguy Country

Kakadu ranks among the world’s great national parks. Its wetlands and escarpments shelter abundant wildlife and rock art that dates back 20,000 years. This is the land of the Bininj/Mungguy, whose presence brings soul and spirituality to any visit here.

In just a few days you can cruise on billabongs bursting with wildlife, examine millennia-old rock paintings under the care of an Indigenous guide, swim in pools at the foot of tumbling waterfalls and hike through ancient sandstone escarpment country. Ubirr and Nourlangie are the main rock-art sites, Jim Jim has the best falls, Cahill’s Crossing is terrific for crocs, and Yellow Water (Ngurrungurrudjba) is great for birds and other wildlife. Kakadu is very popular and can become crowded – in the Dry at least. But this is a vast park, and with a little adventurous spirit you can easily get off the beaten track and be alone with nature.

13. Be wowed by white sands and crystalline water at Wineglass Bay

The show-stealing centrepiece of Freycinet national park, curvaceous Wineglass Bay is Tasmania’s most famous beach for good reason. Its blindingly white sand and pink granite headlands splashed with flaming orange lichen are almost ludicrously photogenic, and a walk along its length to Hazards Beach is almost as rewarding as a swim in its gin-clear water.

Views of the bay are best appreciated from the Wineglass Bay Lookout, a 90 minute walk from the national park’s walking track car park. From here, 1,000 steps lead down to the beach. Those who choose to stay longer and walk further can set off on the Freycinet Peninsula Circuit, a three-day, 30km trek around the peninsula from Hazards Beach south to Cooks Beach, then across the peninsula over a heathland plateau before descending to Wineglass Bay.

SEE IT! Wineglass Bay is 200km north-east of Hobart, via the Tasman Hwy (A3) and C302.

14. Hit the Grampians for an epic hike in Victoria’s Garden of Eden

Victoria/ Jardwadjali and Djab wurrung Country

Hitchcock couldn’t have directed it better himself. A long, eerie crevasse; a sharp left turn, then – BAM! – Pinnacles Lookout and its knockout vista over ranges and plains.

Gotcha moments are thick on the ground when hiking Grampians national park, its sandstone peaks rising like petrified gods. While there are plenty of short strolls – the 4km Mt William (Duwul) Summit walk is breathtaking – the Grampians Peaks trail is the ultimate lace-up adventure.

A 160km long, 13-day odyssey, it spans the entire length of the Grampians (Gariwerd), from Mt Zero (Mura Mura) in the north to the culinary hamlet of Dunkeld in the south. Along it, precious landscapes unfurl, from woodlands and waterfalls to cooling fern valleys. Harboured within: red-tailed black cockatoos, endangered pincushion lilies and the haunting handprints and figures of Aboriginal rock art shelters like Ngamadjidj and Gulgurn Manja.

HIKE IT! See www.grampianspeakstrail.com.au for trail information. Foodies should book a night at Dunkeld’s Royal Mail Hotel.

15. Elevate your Sydney experience on the Bondi to Coogee clifftop walk

Say good morning to the perfect way to take in the best of Sydney’s coastal scenery. The simply sensational 6km Bondi to Coogee walk leads south from Bondi Beach along the clifftops via Tamarama, Bronte and Clovelly, interweaving panoramic views, patrolled beaches, sea baths, waterside parks and plaques recounting local Aboriginal stories. Pack your swimmers if the weather’s warm.

WALK IT! The trail begins at the southern end of Notts Ave near Bondi’s Hunter Park, and completes its view-friendly route near Dunningham Reserve at the northern end of Coogee.

16. Immerse yourself in the remarkable desert rocks of Kata Tjuta

There’s nowhere on earth quite like Kata Tjuta (formerly the Olgas), a striking group of domed rocks huddled together about 35km west of Uluru. The deep valleys and steep-sided gorges contain sites which are sacred to the local Anangu people.

The tallest rock, Mt Olga (546m; 1,066m above sea level) is higher than Uluru. The Valley of the Winds loop, one of the most rewarding bushwalks in Australia’s Red Centre, winds through the gorges and past surreal domes in hues of the deepest red offset by the blue of the desert sky. Elsewhere, Walpa Gorge is especially beautiful in the afternoon, when sunlight floods the gorge. The views from the Sand Dune Lookout, off the road to Uluru, put everything in perspective.

17. Revere Port Campbell national park’s Apostles

Victoria/Girai wurrung Country

You couldn’t ask for a grander finale to the Great Ocean Road. As it shakes off the tortuousness of the Otway Ranges, forest turns to weather-beaten scrub, the sky bursts open and the route shoots west along a flat, narrow escarpment dropping away to terrifying ocean-pounded cliffs. This is Port Campbell national park, home to Victoria’s geological superstars, the Twelve Apostles.

Out of cold, savage waters they rise – monumental limestone stacks, abandoned by the retreating coastline. In truth, there are fewer than 12, but this fails to diminish their impact.

Less famous but no less spectacular are the Bay of Islands and London Bridge rock stacks, just west of sleepy Port Campbell township. Once a double-arched rock platform, London Bridge indeed fell down in 1990, leaving two terrified tourists marooned on the world’s newest island – they were eventually rescued by helicopter.

To the east of the Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge is where the Shipwreck Coast’s most famous and haunting tale unfolded, when two young survivors of the wrecked iron clipper Loch Ard made it to shore. From the clifftop, a path leads down to the cave where the pair took shelter.

The best time to visit is at sunset, not only for the optimal Instagram opportunities (and to beat the tour buses), but also to catch a glimpse of little penguins returning. Sightings vary, but generally the penguins arrive 30 minutes after sunset; don’t forget your binoculars!

18. Reconcile the laid-back splendour of Rottnest Island with its gruesome past

Western Australia/ Noongar Country

With warm water, sunken wrecks, diverse marine life and 63 beaches, it’s little wonder people flock to “Rotto” to swim, fish, laze, dive, snorkel, surf and sea-kayak their cares away. And of course, no trip to Rottnest is complete without the obligatory selfie with the incredibly cute, furry and all-too-trusting quokka.

Highlights include “The Basin”, a family- friendly seawater pool, and the 20m Wadjemup Lighthouse on the island’s highpoint. Wadjemup is a Noongar word meaning “place across the water where the spirits are” – rather apt, given at least 373 unmarked graves hold the victims of a harsh and cruel prison for Aboriginal people operating during the 1800s.

19. Catch the Manly Ferry across one of the world’s greatest harbours

New South Wales/Guringai Country

The Manly Ferry is one of Sydney’s best bargains for visitors to the city. Take in Opera House and Harbour Bridge views before sliding past the ritzy suburbs of Point Piper and Rose Bay and exiting the rocky promontories of the Sydney Heads.

Opposite Manly Wharf, refresh with a beer at the 4 Pines brewpub before strolling along the Corso to the surf, sand and Norfolk pine-lined esplanade of Sydney’s second-most famous beach. Pretty good for around $10.

CRUISE IT! The Manly Ferry departs from Wharf 3 at Circular Quay and takes around 20 minutes.

20. Dive into Queensland’s Museum of Underwater Art

Queensland/Bindal and Wulgurukaba Sea Country

As if the Great Barrier Reef wasn’t epic enough, you can now explore an underwater sculpture garden. The second instalment of the Townsville region’s Museum of Underwater Art, the Coral Greenhouse features 20 human figures performing conservation work in and around a submerged conservatory.

Designed by the renowned sculptor, Jason deCaires Taylor, in collaboration with Indigenous groups, the installation complements the Ocean SirTen sculpture.

DIVE IT! Dive tours to the Coral Greenhouse run from Townsville and Magnetic Island.

This is an edited extract from Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Australia Travel List , $39.99. Available now.

• Australia holidays
• Australian lifestyle
• Queensland holidays
• South Australia holidays
• Victoria holidays
• Western Australia holidays

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The 37 best things to do in Australia

The best things to do in Australia, from eating oysters fresh from the ocean to watching an illuminating light display at Uluru

You know the landmarks and the laid-back culture, but there are plenty more things to do in  Australia than kissing koalas and yelling ‘g’day mate’. Australia is a nature lover’s paradise, with highly sought-after food experiences and impressive cultural heritage to boot.

Whether you want to get amongst art parties in small coastal cities, see fairy penguins scurry across sandy beaches or watch the sunrise over Sydney Harbour from a kayak, there’s so much to explore across this incredible country. You’ll no doubt find something to inspire a holiday Down Under with our guide to all the best things you need to see right now in Australia.

RECOMMENDED: The 20 top tourist attractions in Australia .

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.  

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Best things to do in Australia

1.  Road trip along the Great Ocean Road

Take a day trip, stay the weekend or just pack up and move there – there's plenty going on down the Great Ocean Road . The winding stretch from Torquay to Warrnambool takes four hours to drive non-stop, but you’ll want to take it slow to admire the jaw-dropping vistas, including the Two Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and the London Arch. A pit stop at Apollo Bay Fishermen's Co-op for some grilled lobster with garlic butter and thick-cut chips is a must. 

2.  Experience Uluru's Field of Light installation

The striking large-scale art piece ‘Field of Light’ by British installation artist Bruce Munro has been illuminating the red centre since 2016, and it’s not going anywhere soon. The beauty of visiting Uluru while this installation is on is that you get a ripper view of the famous landmark illuminated by more than 50,000 multi-coloured LED lights. Visit it at dusk to see it at its most spectacular.

3.  Go on a sunset camel ride on Cable Beach

Cable Beach is consistently rated as one of the world’s very best beaches and you can marvel at its magic in the most quintessential way with this safari tour. You’ll ride into sunset on your very own camel, watching the sky reflect onto to serene waters in all shades of yellow and orange. This is some serious bucket list stuff. 

4.  Run through fields of lavender at Bridestowe Estate

You’ll be singing 'Purple Rain' from the lavender fields of Bridestowe Estate, as you take in countless rows of lilac, violet and indigo blossoms. Located a 50-minute drive from Launceston in Tasmania, Bridestowe is the world’s largest privately owned lavender farm and blooms with the brightest purple flowers from December to early February. Wander through the manicured fields, take in the sweet smells and even try a scoop of lavender-infused ice cream.

5.  Get a selfie with a quokka

These adorable marsupials are native to Rottnest Island, an A-class nature reserve located off the coast of Perth. Rotto boasts 63 white-as-snow beaches perfect for snorkelling, diving, surfing off the back breaks and posting to Instagram with #nofilter, but these days it’s all about the quokkas. They’re heavily protected, but they love to investigate and mingle with new visitors. Remember to always approach with caution when leaning in for a selfie, and don’t touch or feed them (it’s against the law).

6.  Paddle on Sydney Harbour at dawn

Rise early for a sunrise kayak to get glorious photo opportunities that’ll make your hungover friends incredibly jealous on a Sunday morning. Tours run over the velvety smooth water underneath Sydney Harbour Bridge, where you can watch the sunrise hit Sydney Opera House. Luckily the harbour water is very calm, so you don’t have to work hard to paddle.

7.  See weird and wacky art at MONA

With revolving exhibitions, a trip to Hobart’s Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) will never be exactly the same experience for every visitor. This colossal and futuristic alien space, which has been described as a “subversive adult Disneyland” is stuffed with the weirdest, most dazzling and generally shocking exhibitions. The hottest festival ticket to MONA is arguably Dark Mofo, a winter art party that takes over this Tasmanian city during June bringing with it a wacky combo of art, music and community spirit. 

8.  Unwind at Mataranka Hot Springs

It’s hard to believe a place as blue and beautiful as this exists in the small town of Mataranka, just south of Katherine. Unwind in the natural waters of this sandy-bottomed thermal pool, as you listen to the gentle gush of nearby waterfalls and look out for local wildlife playing in the palm forest. Along with the main thermal pools, there’s the generally less-crowded Bitter Springs Thermal pools, which are equally as peaceful and picturesque.

9.  Try the best croissant in the world at Lune

Lune Croissanterie 's croissants earned the bakery the top spot on Time Out Melbourne's best patisseries list, and they were dubbed "the world's best" by a writer for The New York Times . Not a bad gig for brother-sister team Kate and Cameron Reid. Be warned: the lines snake out of the door of this Fitzroy shopfront nearly every day, but these crisp, golden and mathematically perfect beauties are so worth it. Arrive early to beat the queues.

10.  Sleep side by side with a big cat at Jamala Wildlife Lodge

If your Instagram feed has been looking a little lacklustre lately, we have a surefire cure: taking a bubble bath in a five-star hotel just heartbeats from a pair of Malayan sun bears. Yes, at Canberra’s zoo-side luxury resort, guests can book in for an overnight stay in rooms overlooking lion, tiger, cheetah or bear enclosures. The best part? A stay at the Lodge will help support the zoo’s conservation efforts.

11.  Snack on fresh oysters in the middle of the sea

Climb into waterproof waders with the team at Oyster Farm Tours and wade out onto the semi-submerged salt water pavillion in the beautiful waters of Coffin Bay in South Australia. Here you’ll get to see how oysters grow, hear about oyster farming practices and learn how to shuck your own. Best of all? You get to taste them, fresh as hell, straight from the water. Not to brag, but it’s the only tour of its kind in the world.

12.  Take the plunge at the Figure Eight Pools

You may have seen them on Instagram or TikTok – two perfect circles of crystal blue water, connected in the centre, sitting inside a rock ledge. They’re beautiful, and getting to them sounds like an intrepid adventure into a slice of untouched, subtropical paradise – the  Royal National Park .  It takes 6km to reach the Figure Eight Pools, but it’s well worth it for that post-hike dip. Just be sure to plan your trek during low tide and monitor the wave risk forecast.

13.  Risk it all on a crocodile cruise

Get up close with Australia’s deadliest animal on a thrilling jumping crocodile cruise. Located en route from Darwin to Kakadu National Park (where Crocodile Dundee was filmed), this hour-long tour will have you trembling in your boots as you witness powerful saltwater crocodiles leap spectacularly in the air. It’s a year-round fear factor affair.

14.  Sip on fine wines in the Barossa Valley

You could spend weeks, if not months, going between the 150 wineries and 90-plus cellar doors in South Australia’s beautiful Barossa Valley . Regarded as the wine capital of Australia, the region is perfectly suited for producing big, beefy red wines, which you can sip all day long. Start at the cellar door of Australia’s most famous wine producer, Penfolds , before touring along for tastings at the secluded Seppeltfield , the award-winning Hentley Farm or the boutique Rockford Wines .

15.  Wake up with the sun at Cape Byron Lighthouse

Be the very first in Australia to see the sunrise at Byron Bay’s most famous Lighthouse. Once you reach the summit of Australia’s most easterly point, you can take in sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the wider Byron region. Pack your swimmers for a post-sunrise dip at Watego’s Beach and keep your eyes peeled in case you’re visiting during whale or dolphin season.

16.  Marvel at the Three Sisters from new heights

Just two hours west of Sydney's CBD, this vast, largely untouched wilderness, spanning some 11,400 square kilometres, is crisscrossed with many of Australia’s top walking trails. Take in the most astounding views of the valley, including the Three Sisters, at Scenic World. You can ascend the valley in a glass-walled cable car suspended 270m in the air, and descend in the Scenic Railway, which chugs down a hair-raising 52-degree decline. Of course, the forested canyons, towering rocks and majestic waterfalls can also be explored on foot .

17.  Make friends with wildlife at Cradle Mountain

Lace up your hiking boots and explore the natural beauty of Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain. The national park comes to life in all seasons with a world-class maze of walking tracks showcasing its ancient rainforests, snow-kissed mountain tops, crystal clear lakes and playful wildlife. Experienced bushwalkers can conquer the Cradle Summit, which is a rewarding eight-hour return hike. However, you can also take a pleasant stroll around the picture-perfect Dove Lake, followed by a dip in the lake during the warmer months.

18.  Fly over the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the world, so missing out on a face-to-face meeting is unconscionable. Whether you’re a hardcore scuba diver, novice snorkeller or want to see the Great Barrier Reef without getting your hair wet, there are plenty of ways to see the world’s largest coral reef. It comprises more than 2,900 reefs and 900 islands, and you’ll have the opportunity to swim alongside squids, turtles and a myriad psychedelic fish, making it one of the most magical and peaceful experiences you will ever have.

19.  See the Canberra sunrise from a hot air balloon

If you can handle dragging yourself out of bed well before dawn then a hot air balloon flight really is worth it. Drifting over the city in the dawn light, you’ll get to admire the city’s most famous architectural landmarks from a totally new angle, including Parliament House and Lake Burley Griffin. You can watch the magic from the ground up too at Canberra’s annual Balloon Spectacular. Hosted over nine days in March, this festival fills the city’s skies with more than 30 hot air balloons from around the world.

20.  Bite into bratwurst at Salamanca Market

Plan your trip to Tassie wisely. With more than 300 stallholders, this outdoor mecca takes place in Hobart every Saturday between 8.30am and 3pm. Fuel your exploration through the loud and proud market stalls with freshly shucked oysters, barbecued scallop sticks, pocket curries or a fried weisswurst (white sausage). Pick up tasty treasures for the road too, including local liquor-filled chocolates, artisan cheese, Tasmanian truffles and award-winning gin.

21.  Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge at night

During the day you can see Sydney Harbour in all its majesty, but by night it takes on a whole new magnitude. You'll climb up the inside arc so that you are surrounded by hand-riveted steel and feel a little like you’re inside the ribs of a metal skeleton. Adult tickets are upwards of $200, but it’s totally worth the money.

22.  See native fauna on Kangaroo Island

Native Australian wildlife reigns supreme on Kangaroo Island, the country’s third largest island, which is easily accessible by ferry from South Australia’s Cape Jervis. Animals well and truly outnumber the island’s modest human population, with tammar wallabies, koalas, echidnas, brush-tailed possums, bottlenose dolphins, goannas, sea lions, about 250 species of birds, and kangaroos (naturally) calling Kangaroo Island home. While there, be sure to check out the Remarkable Rocks, too. This natural landmark is, well, quite remarkable.

23.  Get coffee cultured in Melbourne

Nicknamed the "coffee capital of the world", Melbourne has no shortage of excellent coffee shops. Although you’re rarely more than a hundred metres from a good brew, there still are some standout roasters. One such caffeine queen is Bonnie , a CBD coffee joint whose house specialty is cold drip coffee. We also back Collingwood’s Acoffee – more like a coffee museum than a café – and the ethical brews from Padre Coffee, located in Brunswick East or in the heart of South Melbourne Market.

24.  Have a bevvie at Melbourne’s longest bar

In the summertime when the weather is fine, we all drink at Arbory . This massive outdoor eatery and beer garden is sandwiched between two Melbourne icons, the Yarra River and Flinders Street Station. Stretching for 120 metres along the riverbank, Arbory is officially Melbourne’s longest bar. There are Espresso Martinis and Aperol Spritzes on tap for quick-fire service, and you’ll find some of the city’s best burgers to boot.

25.  Swim with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef

Fly two hours north of Perth to Exmouth to find the drop-dead gorgeous Ningaloo Reef – a nature lover’s playground brimming with vitality. It’s one of the longest fringing reefs on the planet, meaning in many places the coral comes right up to the beach. Whale sharks are what you should come to see – but don’t worry, they’re harmless filter feeders who just so happen to grow up to 18 metres in length. Also, be on the alert for Exmouth’s other visitors like humpback whales (July to November), giant manta rays, dugongs and spinner dolphins who drop by all year round.

26.  Face your fears on the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk

Stop and connect with nature while suspended 40m above the ground on this fairytale tree top walk. You’ll gradually ascend into the lush canopy of Western Australia’s ancient forest, surrounded by  tingle trees, which are found nowhere else in the world. If heights get your heart racing, then you can opt to stroll through centuries-old native eucalyptus on the ground-level Ancient Empire Walk.

27.  Have a meal at Saint Peter

If you want to experience Sydney’s famed seafood, head to Saint Peter . At this fancy fish diner in Paddington, award-winning chef Josh Niland will personally introduce you to the treasures of the high seas. The menu changes from day to day, depending on what prized items Niland’s suppliers have wrested from the fishing nets that morning. Perhaps it’s flame cockles, or maybe a Spencer Gulf rock crab – whatever it is, you’ll have a ripper time.

28.  Climb Mount Kosziosko

Take a hike up Australia’s highest mountain, taking in unparalleled views of the Snowy Mountains along the way. The Mount Koscizosko Summit Walk is dotted with wildflowers in summer and icicles in winter, with the best time to visit after the snow melts from December to March. Whether you choose to hike or ride, there are two routes to pick from, including the 13km return journey from Thredbo or the 18.6km return route from Charlotte’s Pass.

29.  Learn to surf at Bondi

Surfing a wave at Bondi Beach should be on everyone’s bucket list. If you’re rusty with a surfboard, book in for a class at Let’s Go Surfing. The school prides itself on the popular two-hour beginners’ course, which goes through the essentials of water safety (including Bondi’s dangerous rips), paddling and how to catch a wave. By the end of the lesson, we can guarantee you’ll have ridden a wave standing up – even if for just a second.

30.  See a blockbuster exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria

This grand modernist building is Australia’s oldest and most popular art museum. That title has been won thanks to the gallery’s top-notch and diverse permanent collection, its fantastic visiting collections (think Monet, Van Gogh and masterpieces from MoMA) and an ongoing series of additional events aimed at locals and tourists alike. Plus, all visitors to the NGV must pass the water wall upon entry, and yes, it is hard to resist touching it.

31.  Peek the penguins at St Kilda Beach

You don’t need to go far to see some cute wildlife in Melbourne. We suggest taking in the sunset down in St Kilda, and while you stroll down Jacka Boulevard towards St Kilda’s breakwater, take a peek at a healthy-sized colony of little penguins (also called fairy penguins) that hang out there. These black-and-white cuties are there all year round, but the best viewing is in summer after sunset.

32.  Cheer with the crowds at an AFLW game

The women’s league of the AFL hit the big time a few years back, and what better way is there to support the athletes than heading along to a game? Follow the pros and get yourself a pie, a hot jam doughnut and a beer, then yell like a bastard, heckle the umpires and have a bloody great time watching the AFLW’s brightest stars. The season starts in August and ends in December.

33.  Brunch at Bills

Warm, kind and incredibly talented, Bill Granger changed the way Aussies eat brekkie (and he made the rest of the world take note). Granger’s avo on toast, ricotta hotcakes and corn fritters are so good they've reached icon status. Come and get your hands on them in Darlinghurst, Surry Hills and Bondi, and remember why we first fell in love with Granger and his sunny food many moons ago.

34.  Pay your respects at the Australia War Memorial

Commemorate the sacrifice of our service personnel at one of the top free tourist attractions in the whole world, the Australian War Memorial . Explore their stories, place a poppy on the Roll of Honour and stay for the moving Last Post closing ceremony. You can also pay your respects at the Anzac Day Dawn Service, which draws crowds of more than 30,000.

35.  Stroll along the Manly to Spit coastal walk

Many people rate the Bondi to Coogee walk, but we’re all about the 10km Manly to Spit coastal walk in Sydney. On what other path can you wind past millionaires' mansions, Indigenous rock art and at least four secret beaches, all of it punctuated by clifftop views and the ocean beyond? It's magic.

36.  Go on a Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk

Just an hour away from Sydney’s CBD, Dharawal National Park provides stunning scenery and an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Until recently, public access to the bushland was restricted, but now you can enjoy guided tours of the park every second Saturday of the month. Guiding the way will be an Aboriginal Discovery Ranger who will share local knowledge about flora and fauna along the way, as well as Dreamtime stories that connect Indigenous Australians to the area.

37.  Have a drink at Young Henrys

Young Henrys is a local beer that you’ll find on tap at all the best pubs and bars around Australia. We suggest getting a flavour for the bohemian suburb of Newtown in Sydney with a wander down King Street and Enmore Road, before joining the inclusive and diverse crowd at the craft beer’s cellar door. Young Henrys is all about afternoon sessions, and on a weekend you’ll want to shake a leg in order to secure one of the prized high tables at the brewery cellar door.

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31 of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Australia

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: July 23, 2023

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 you can try your hand at diving with a helmet. One of our favourite experiences. Plan your trip to the Great Barrier Reef with FlightCentre

2. Daintree Rainforest

Located in Queensland , the Daintree Rainforest is 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 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 s cenic flight from Port Douglas over the Great Barrier Reef.

Known as the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, Cairnes is located about 1,700 kilometers north of Brisbane. 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 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 favourite. 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 and 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 that 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 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 Homestea d 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 New South Wales, Byron Bay artfully combines natural beauty with its laid-back culture. 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 metres high it makes for 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 a 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. 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.

31. Maria Island

Mapping Megan wrote an article for us about Maria Island located off of Tasmania. Her photo of these Wave Rocks caught our attention.

As Megan stated in her article:

“ We also took in the phenomenal Painted Cliffs – spectacular sandstone cliffs with wonderful honeycomb patterns formed through staining by iron oxide. While this kind of rock formation is not uncommon, it is rare for it to be so exposed and accessible for tourism. A 2 and a half hour hike from the main port in Darlington, the cliffs weren’t overrun by tourism as we had expected. In fact, there were only one or two other people exploring the area when we arrived.”

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!

Disclosure: This post is brought to you by FlightCentre , all opinions remain our own. 

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• See our Full Australia Travel Guide for Travel Tips and Advice

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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 “31 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 🙂

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

25 Best Places to Visit in Australia

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.

Map of Places to Visit in Australia

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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10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Australia

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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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25 Amazing Things to Do in Australia (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: January 13, 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.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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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TOP 20 TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN AUSTRALIA Must-Visit Destinations

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the diverse and breathtaking landscapes of Australia? From iconic architectural wonders to stunning natural marvels, Australia offers a plethora of attractions that will leave you in awe. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a virtual tour of the top 20 must-visit destinations in Australia . Get ready to explore the land Down Under and uncover the beauty and wonder it has to offer.

Table of Contents

Sydney Opera House (New South Wales) – Iconic Architectural Masterpiece and Performing Arts Venue

The Sydney Opera House, nestled majestically in the heart of Sydney Harbor, is a symbol of Australia’s creativity and cultural prowess. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed architectural masterpiece is renowned for its distinctive sail-like design, creating an enchanting sight against the backdrop of the harbor.

The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts center that hosts a wide range of world-class performances, including opera, theater, dance, and concerts. Its striking architecture and prime location make it a must-visit landmark for travelers and art enthusiasts alike.

Things to Do

• Guided Tours : Take a guided tour to learn about the history, design, and behind-the-scenes of this iconic venue.
• Catch a Performance : Experience the magic of live performances at one of the Opera House’s theaters.
• Climb the Roof : Embark on the Sydney Opera House BridgeClimb for stunning panoramic views of the harbor and city skyline.
• Dine with a View : Enjoy a meal at one of the onsite restaurants with breathtaking harbor views.
• Book your tickets for performances and tours in advance to secure your spot.
• The Opera House is beautifully illuminated at night, offering a different perspective for photography enthusiasts.

How to Reach

The Sydney Opera House is conveniently located in Sydney’s central business district. It is easily accessible by public transport, including trains, buses, and ferries.

Great Barrier Reef (Queensland) – World’s Largest Coral Reef System

The Great Barrier Reef is a natural wonder like no other, stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the Queensland coast. This extraordinary ecosystem is home to a dazzling array of marine life and vibrant coral formations.

The Great Barrier Reef is a paradise for snorkelers, divers, and nature enthusiasts. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most biodiverse locations on Earth.

• Snorkeling and Diving : Dive into the crystal-clear waters and witness the incredible marine life up close.
• Scenic Flights : Take a scenic helicopter or seaplane flight for a bird’s-eye view of the reef’s beauty.
• Island Hopping : Explore the stunning islands dotting the reef, such as Hamilton Island and Lizard Island.
• Marine Life Encounters : Join a guided tour to spot majestic humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.
• Practice responsible reef tourism to protect this fragile ecosystem for future generations.
• Apply reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral from harmful chemicals.

Cairns and Airlie Beach are the primary gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, with numerous tours and cruises departing from both locations.

Uluru (Northern Territory) – Sacred Sandstone Formation in the Australian Outback

Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is an awe-inspiring sandstone monolith rising dramatically from the vast Australian Outback. This sacred site holds great cultural significance for the Anangu Aboriginal people.

Uluru is not just a natural wonder; it is a spiritual and cultural icon representing the heart and soul of Australia’s Indigenous heritage.

• Sunrise and Sunset Viewing : Witness the mesmerizing colors of Uluru during sunrise and sunset.
• Base Walk : Embark on a guided or self-guided walk around the base of Uluru to learn about its cultural importance.
• Camel Rides : Enjoy a unique experience by riding a camel through the desert landscape.
• Stargazing : Marvel at the brilliant night sky and celestial wonders above Uluru.
• Respect the sacred significance of Uluru by refraining from climbing it, as it is a sacred site to the local Aboriginal community.
• Stay hydrated and carry plenty of water, as the Outback can get extremely hot.

Uluru is located in the Northern Territory, and the nearest town is Yulara, which is accessible by air or road.

Great Ocean Road (Victoria) – Scenic Coastal Drive with Twelve Apostles Rock Formations

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most iconic drives, offering a stunning coastal journey along Victoria’s southern coastline. The Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks, is a highlight of this scenic route.

The Great Ocean Road promises breathtaking ocean views, lush rainforests, and impressive rock formations, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and road-trippers.

• Twelve Apostles Viewing : Witness the majestic Twelve Apostles at sunrise or sunset for the most enchanting views.
• Otway National Park : Explore the rainforests and waterfalls of the Otway Ranges in the Great Otway National Park.
• Surfing : Hit the waves at popular surfing spots like Bells Beach and Torquay.
• Wildlife Spotting : Keep an eye out for koalas, kangaroos, and native bird species along the way.
• Plan for multiple stops along the road to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.
• Check weather conditions before embarking on the drive, as the coastal weather can be unpredictable.

The Great Ocean Road starts in Torquay, which is around 100 kilometers southwest of Melbourne. It is easily accessible by car from Melbourne.

Sydney Harbour Bridge (New South Wales) – Panoramic Views from the Iconic Bridge Climb

• The Sydney Harbour Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city’s grandeur, connecting the central business district with the North Shore. The BridgeClimb offers a thrilling adventure and unmatched views of Sydney’s skyline and harbor.
• The Sydney Harbour Bridge is a testament to engineering brilliance and offers an exhilarating experience for both locals and tourists.
• BridgeClimb : Embark on the BridgeClimb for a unique opportunity to scale the iconic arches and enjoy panoramic views.
• Pylon Lookout : Visit the Pylon Lookout for a more budget-friendly option to admire the harbor views.
• Harbor Cruise : Take a harbor cruise to view the bridge from the water and appreciate its splendor.
• New Year’s Eve : Witness the spectacular fireworks display from the bridge on New Year’s Eve.
• Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes for the BridgeClimb.
• Capture stunning photos from the top of the bridge to cherish the memories.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is easily accessible from the city center. Trains, buses, and ferries all connect to Circular Quay, where the bridge is located.

Bondi Beach (New South Wales) – Australia’s Most Famous Beach

• Bondi Beach is synonymous with the Australian beach lifestyle, attracting sunseekers, surfers, and beach lovers from all over the world.
• Bondi Beach is a vibrant and buzzing destination that perfectly embodies the laid-back Australian beach culture.
• Surfing : Learn to surf or catch some waves at Bondi Beach, known for its surf-friendly waves.
• Coastal Walk : Embark on the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk for stunning ocean views and picturesque scenery.
• Icebergs Pool : Take a dip in the famous Bondi Icebergs Pool, perched on the edge of the ocean.
• Bondi Markets : Explore the Bondi Markets on Sundays for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
• Be mindful of surf conditions and swim between the flags, where lifeguards are on duty.
• Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach during peak seasons.

Bondi Beach is just a short drive from Sydney’s city center, and public buses regularly run to and from the beach.

Kakadu National Park (Northern Territory) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Kakadu National Park is a sprawling wilderness that showcases the natural and cultural wonders of the Australian Outback.
• Kakadu is not only Australia’s largest national park but also a living testament to the region’s Indigenous heritage.
• Aboriginal Rock Art : Discover ancient rock art galleries that depict the rich history of the Indigenous people.
• Yellow Water Cruise : Take a cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong to spot crocodiles and a variety of birdlife.
• Jim Jim Falls : Hike to the magnificent Jim Jim Falls and cool off in its pristine plunge pool.
• Cultural Tours : Engage in guided cultural tours to gain insights into the Indigenous way of life.
• Kakadu’s climate can be extreme, so be prepared with appropriate clothing and plenty of water.
• Respect the cultural significance of the rock art and wildlife by following park guidelines.

Kakadu National Park is located in the Northern Territory and is accessible by car or guided tours from Darwin, the nearest major city.

Melbourne (Victoria) – A Vibrant City of Culture and Creativity

• Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, is a melting pot of arts, music, and culinary delights.
• Melbourne is a city that embraces diversity and creativity, offering a plethora of experiences for every traveler.
• Street Art : Explore the vibrant street art laneways in Melbourne’s CBD, such as Hosier Lane.
• Coffee Culture : Indulge in Melbourne’s famous coffee scene at local cafes and roasteries.
• Queen Victoria Market : Shop for fresh produce, gourmet delights, and unique souvenirs at the market.
• Festivals and Events : Immerse yourself in cultural festivals, food festivals, and live music events.
• Take advantage of the city’s extensive public transportation system to explore various neighborhoods.
• Melbourne’s weather can be changeable, so pack layers for your trip.

Melbourne is well-connected with international and domestic flights, and the city’s public transport network makes it easy to get around.

Fraser Island (Queensland) – The World’s Largest Sand Island

• Fraser Island is a natural wonderland where lush rainforests meet sandy beaches and crystal-clear lakes.
• Fraser Island is an ecological gem, featuring diverse landscapes and unique flora and fauna.
• Lake McKenzie : Swim in the pristine waters of Lake McKenzie, a perched lake with pure silica sand.
• Maheno Shipwreck : Visit the rusting Maheno Shipwreck on the beach, adding a touch of history to the island.
• Eli Creek : Float down Eli Creek in an inflatable tube and enjoy the refreshing natural stream.
• Champagne Pools : Take a dip in the Champagne Pools, naturally formed rock pools with effervescent water.
• Drive carefully on the island’s sandy tracks and be aware of dingoes, the island’s wild residents.
• Camping is a popular option for exploring Fraser Island, so book campsites in advance.

Fraser Island can be reached by taking a ferry from Hervey Bay or Rainbow Beach on the Queensland coast.

The Great Australian Bight (South Australia/Western Australia) – A Coastal Wonder

• The Great Australian Bight boasts awe-inspiring cliffs and offers a prime location for whale-watching.
• The Bight is a rugged and remote coastal region that showcases the raw beauty of Australia’s southern coastline.
• Cliff Top Walks : Enjoy scenic cliff-top walks that offer breathtaking views of the vast ocean below.
• Whale-Watching : Spot majestic Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales during their migratory season.
• Nullarbor Links : Play a round of golf at the world’s longest golf course, the Nullarbor Links.
• Head of the Bight : Visit the Head of the Bight viewing platform for a chance to see whales up close.
• The best time for whale-watching is from May to October when the whales migrate.
• Bring binoculars and camera gear to capture the stunning coastal vistas.

The Great Australian Bight spans across South Australia and Western Australia, and access points can be reached by road from nearby towns.

The Daintree Rainforest (Queensland) – The Oldest Rainforest on Earth

• The Daintree Rainforest is a living museum, home to an ancient ecosystem teeming with biodiversity.
• The Daintree is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest that has thrived for millions of years.
• Daintree River Cruise : Take a river cruise to spot crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife.
• Cape Tribulation : Visit Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef.
• Mossman Gorge : Explore the Mossman Gorge and swim in its crystal-clear waters.
• Jindalba Boardwalk : Wander along the Jindalba Boardwalk for an immersive rainforest experience.
• Be cautious around water bodies, as some areas are home to saltwater crocodiles.
• Respect the rainforest’s delicate ecosystem and refrain from leaving any trash behind.

The Daintree Rainforest is accessible from Cairns or Port Douglas in Queensland by car or guided tours.

Phillip Island (Victoria) – A Penguin Parade Spectacle

• Phillip Island is renowned for its unique wildlife experiences, especially the famous Penguin Parade.
• Phillip Island is a sanctuary for wildlife, where visitors can witness adorable penguins returning to their burrows.
• Penguin Parade : Watch the adorable little penguins waddle ashore at sunset at Summerland Beach.
• Koala Conservation Centre : Get up close with koalas and spot other native wildlife in their natural habitat.
• The Nobbies : Explore the rugged coastline and spot seals at The Nobbies boardwalk.
• Surf Beach : Catch some waves or relax on the sandy shores of Surf Beach.
• Photography is prohibited during the Penguin Parade to protect the penguins’ sensitive eyes.
• Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the Penguin Parade.

Phillip Island is easily accessible from Melbourne by car or public transport, with guided tours available as well.

Adelaide (South Australia) – A Charming City of Culture and Wine

• Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is a city that delights with its cultural offerings and wine regions.
• Adelaide is a city that embraces its heritage and offers visitors a taste of the good life.
• Adelaide Central Market : Experience a gastronomic paradise at the bustling Adelaide Central Market.
• Barossa Valley : Embark on a wine-tasting adventure in the nearby Barossa Valley wine region.
• Adelaide Botanic Garden : Stroll through the tranquil Adelaide Botanic Garden and its diverse plant collection.
• Art Gallery of South Australia : Explore the impressive collection of Australian and international art.
• Adelaide’s dining scene is a must-try, with diverse options from fine dining to food trucks.
• Take advantage of Adelaide’s free tram service within the city center.

Adelaide is well-connected by domestic and international flights, with a convenient airport located close to the city center.

Kangaroo Island (South Australia) – A Wildlife Wonderland

• Kangaroo Island is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering encounters with diverse Australian fauna.
• Kangaroo Island is a natural zoo, where kangaroos, koalas, and sea lions roam free.
• Seal Bay Conservation Park : Observe Australian sea lions in their natural habitat at Seal Bay.
• Flinders Chase National Park : Discover the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch at Flinders Chase.
• Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park : Get up close and personal with kangaroos, koalas, and other animals at the wildlife park.
• Little Sahara : Try sandboarding down the dunes at the unique Little Sahara.
• Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially during breeding seasons.
• Kangaroo Island is a great place for stargazing due to its low light pollution.

Kangaroo Island can be accessed by a short ferry ride from Cape Jervis, which is approximately a two-hour drive from Adelaide.

Blue Mountains (New South Wales) – A Nature Lover’s Paradise

• The Blue Mountains are a captivating escape from the city, offering breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities.
• The Blue Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, famous for its dramatic cliffs and eucalyptus forests.
• Three Sisters : Marvel at the iconic Three Sisters rock formation and the panoramic views from Echo Point.
• Scenic World : Take a ride on the Scenic Railway, Skyway, and Cableway for stunning views of the valley.
• Wentworth Falls : Hike to Wentworth Falls and enjoy the spectacular waterfall and lush surroundings.
• Leura Village : Explore the charming village of Leura with its boutique stores and gardens.
• The weather in the Blue Mountains can be unpredictable, so bring warm clothing and rain gear.
• Plan your visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

The Blue Mountains are easily accessible from Sydney, with regular train services and organized tours available.

Gold Coast (Queensland) – Australia’s Playground

• The Gold Coast is a dynamic coastal destination known for its theme parks, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
• The Gold Coast offers an exciting mix of family-friendly attractions and lively entertainment.
• Surfers Paradise : Hit the world-famous Surfers Paradise beach for sunbathing and surfing.
• Theme Parks : Experience the thrills of Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Dreamworld, and Wet’n’Wild.
• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary : Get up close with native Australian animals at the wildlife sanctuary.
• SkyPoint Observation Deck : Enjoy stunning views from the SkyPoint Observation Deck in Q1 skyscraper.
• Consider purchasing a theme park pass for discounts and access to multiple attractions.
• Surf only in designated areas and follow the lifeguard’s instructions for safety.

The Gold Coast is well-connected by flights, and Brisbane Airport is the nearest major airport. It is also accessible by road from Brisbane.

Purnululu National Park (Western Australia) – Breathtaking Bungle Bungle Range

• Purnululu National Park is a hidden gem in Western Australia, known for its unique Bungle Bungle Range.
• The Bungle Bungle Range is an ancient rock formation that looks like giant beehives, captivating visitors with its distinct appearance.
• Picaninny Creek : Hike along the Picaninny Creek trail to explore the heart of the Bungle Bungle Range.
• Echidna Chasm : Walk through the narrow and spectacular Echidna Chasm.
• Scenic Flights : Take a scenic helicopter flight for a bird’s-eye view of the rugged landscape.
• Cathedral Gorge : Discover the natural amphitheater of Cathedral Gorge with its remarkable acoustics.
• The park is remote, so be well-prepared with food, water, and necessary supplies.
• Respect the cultural significance of the area to the local Indigenous people.

Purnululu National Park is located in the Kimberley region of Western Australia and is accessible by 4WD vehicles or guided tours.

Whitsunday Islands (Queensland) – Paradise of Pristine Beaches and Reefs

• The Whitsunday Islands are a tropical paradise, offering stunning beaches and access to the Great Barrier Reef.
• The Whitsundays are a dream destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
• Whitehaven Beach : Relax on the world-famous Whitehaven Beach with its pristine silica sand.
• Snorkeling and Diving : Dive into the clear waters to explore the colorful coral reefs and marine life.
• Hill Inlet Lookout : Hike to the Hill Inlet Lookout for breathtaking views of Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet.
• Sailing : Take a sailing trip around the islands for an unforgettable experience.
• Consider staying overnight on one of the islands for a more immersive experience.
• Practice responsible reef tourism and avoid touching or damaging the coral.

The Whitsunday Islands can be reached by boat from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island. Hamilton Island also has its airport with regular flights from major cities.

The Kimberley (Western Australia) – Remote and Untamed Wilderness

• The Kimberley region is a vast and rugged expanse of wilderness, offering a true outback adventure.
• The Kimberley is a remote and sparsely populated region known for its ancient landscapes and unique natural features.
• Bungle Bungle Range : Explore the stunning Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park.
• Mitchell Falls : Hike to the breathtaking Mitchell Falls and admire the multi-tiered waterfall.
• Horizontal Falls : Take a thrilling seaplane or boat ride through the Horizontal Falls in Talbot Bay.
• Gibb River Road : Drive along the iconic Gibb River Road for a quintessential Kimberley experience.
• The Kimberley has limited infrastructure, so be well-prepared with supplies and fuel.
• Respect the land and its traditional owners by following Leave No Trace principles.

The Kimberley region is best explored by 4WD vehicles or guided tours from cities like Broome and Kununurra.

Rottnest Island (Western Australia) – Home of the Quokkas

• Rottnest Island is a small slice of paradise, famous for its friendly quokkas and pristine beaches.
• Rottnest Island is a car-free destination where visitors can unwind and connect with nature.
• Meet the Quokkas : Interact with the adorable and friendly quokkas that call the island home.
• Bike Riding : Explore the island’s beauty on a bike and visit various beaches and bays.
• Snorkeling : Discover the vibrant underwater world and spot marine life while snorkeling.
• Wadjemup Lighthouse : Climb up to the Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic island views.
• Remember that quokkas are wild animals, so maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding them.
• Book accommodation and ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Rottnest Island is accessible by a short ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle.

Tasmania – The Island of Natural Wonders

• Tasmania is an island state that boasts diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains, pristine wilderness, and charming towns.
• Tasmania is a treasure trove of natural wonders, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Cradle Mountain : Hike to the iconic Cradle Mountain and explore the surrounding national park.
• Freycinet National Park : Visit Freycinet to see Wineglass Bay and take in the stunning coastal scenery.
• Port Arthur : Explore the historic Port Arthur site and learn about Australia’s convict past.
• MONA : Visit the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) for a unique and thought-provoking art experience.
• Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and waterproof clothing.
• Respect the wildlife and nature by adhering to the Leave No Trace principles.

Tasmania is accessible by air and sea, with flights available from major Australian cities and ferry services from Melbourne.

Australia is a land of contrasts, where vibrant cities meet untamed wilderness, and ancient cultures intertwine with modern experiences. From iconic landmarks to remote natural wonders, the country offers an endless array of must-visit destinations. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Australia promises to leave a lasting impression on every traveler fortunate enough to explore its diverse and captivating landscapes. So, pack your bags, set off on an unforgettable journey, and let Australia enchant you with its beauty and charm.

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Big Australia Bucket List

Absolutely EVERYTHING to see, do and experience in Australia

Big Australia Bucket List: 100+ Things to Do in Australia

If you are even remotely interested in travel, you can be sure that Australia is somewhere at the top of the list for places you would like to visit during your lifetime. But what are you going to do when you get there? Spread over 6 states and 2 territories are some of the worlds incredible natural wonders such as the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, alongside cosmopolitan cities and cute towns, over 500 National Parks and in and around them are thousands of experiences and Australia tourist attractions that will make your visit memorable. To get you started we’ve created this epic guide containing over 100 Things To Do in Australia to help you put together your own Australia Bucket List!

I wonder how many have you ticked off already? And how many more you add to your list as you scroll through! Either way, we hope we can inspire you to Holiday Here This Year (and every year!) #holidayherethisyear

Table of Contents

• 1.2 Melbourne
• 1.4 Adelaide
• 1.5 Brisbane
• 1.8 Canberra
• 2.1 Blue Mountains National Park (NSW)
• 2.2 Kosciuszko National Park (NSW)
• 2.3 Royal National Park (NSW)
• 2.4 Kakadu National Park (NT)
• 2.5 Litchfield National Park (NT)
• 2.6 Uluru-Kata Tjuta (NT)
• 2.7 Daintree National Park (QLD)
• 2.8 Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (QLD)
• 2.9 Whitsunday National Park (QLD)
• 2.10 Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park (SA)
• 2.11 Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park (TAS)
• 2.12 Freycinet National Park (TAS)
• 2.13 Grampians National Park (VIC)
• 2.14 Port Campbell National Park (VIC)
• 2.15 Christmas Island National Park (WA)
• 2.16 Kalbarri National Park (WA)
• 2.17 Purnululu National Park (WA)
• 3.1 Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge (NSW)
• 3.2 Learn to Surf at Byron Bay (NSW)
• 3.3 Visit Yamba (NSW)
• 3.4 Visit Sydney’s Famous Beaches: Manly, Bondi & Coogee (NSW)
• 3.5 Explore the Outback at Kings Canyon (NT)
• 3.6 Kayak the Katherine Gorge (NT)
• 3.7 Visit Arnhem Land (NT)
• 3.8 Watch the Sunrise (or set) at Ayres Rock/Uluru (NT)
• 3.9 Travel Through Australia’s Red Center on The Ghan (NT & SA)
• 3.10 Dive the Great Barrier Reef (QLD)
• 3.11 Get in the Water with a Giant Saltwater Crocodile (NT)
• 3.12 Go Dune Bashing  in a 4×4 on Fraser Island (QLD)
• 3.13 Minjin Swing through the Jungle in Cairns (QLD)
• 3.14 Sail The Whitsundays (QLD)
• 3.15 Spend a Day at White Haven Beach (QLD)
• 3.16 Cage Dive with Great White Sharks (SA)
• 3.17 Discover the Underground Town of Coober Pedy (SA)
• 3.18 Meet Seals and Kangaroos at Kangaroo Island (SA)
• 3.19 Swim with Sea Lions at Bairds Bay (SA)
• 3.20 Drive Australia’s Longest Straight Road: The Eyre Highway (SA/WA)
• 3.21 Learn about Tasmania’s Convict Past at Port Arthur (TAS)
• 3.22 View the Aurora Australis (TAS)
• 3.23 Go White Water Rafting (TAS)
• 3.24 Drive the Great Ocean Road (VIC)
• 3.25 Explore Melbourne’s Iconic Laneways (VIC)
• 3.26 Go Wine Tasting in Victoria’s Yarra Valley (VIC)
• 3.27 Relax at the Peninsula Hot Springs (VIC)
• 3.28 Tree Surfing on the Mornington Peninsula (VIC)
• 3.29 Go See The Penguins at Phillip Island (Vic)
• 3.30 Watch the Camel Parade at Cable Beach (WA)
• 3.31 Frolic with the Dolphins at Monkey Mia (WA)
• 3.32 Gaze on the Pinnacles (WA)
• 3.33 See The Fluorescent Pink Lake (WA)
• 3.34 Snorkel with Whale Sharks at Ningaloo Reef (WA)
• 3.35 Spend a day on Rottnest Island (WA)
• 3.36 Visit Wave Rock (WA)

Top Things to do in Australia: Visit The Capital Cities

Add in world class shopping at Queen Victoria Market & Edgy Boutiques in the CBD, and every major sporting event in the country (most of which are held at the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground)) and a variety of Melbourne attractions such as the Old Melbourne Gaol , the Eureka Skydeck, the Shrine of Remembrance (Australia’s war memorial) and the Melbourne Aquarium , and it’s clear that Melbourne certainly has something for everyone!

From the beautiful city center Kings Park and Royal Botanical Gardens; the seaside city of Freemantle; the wine producers of Margaret River, the geological marvels that are the Pinnacles, the abundant sealife at Monkey Mia and Ningaloo Reef; and not to mention famous-for-sunset-camel-trains Cable Beach up in the north. Perth is your gateway to some of the greatest sights and experiences Australia has to offer and spending some time here should definitely be on your Australia bucket list!

Outside the city there is a some great of day trips & weekend getaways to go on, with a whole heap of destinations to choose between – from the beaches of the Sunshine Coast, theme parks on the Gold Coast, surfing at Surfers Paradise, Australia’s adventure capital of Cairns, Great Barrier Reef gateway cities of Port Douglas and Airlie Beach and not forgetting the Daintree Rainforest and a wildlife sanctuary in practically every city. There’s just so much to do it could be hard to decide where to go first!

As the city is almost closer to Asia than any other Australian cities (flights to Bali or Cairns take the same amount of time!) also means you’ll also find strong Asian influences, especially in the energetic food scene and night markets.

From the haunting, daily, last post ceremony and National Gallery and National Arboretum to the cool climate wineries and funky new urban precinct of NewAction – home to some of Canberra’s best restaurants, cafe’s bakeries and bars. There is plenty for visitors to see and do – and if you’re looking for the ultimate sugar hit, head out to the suburb of Manuka where the first FreakShake was created!

Best Things to do in Australia: Explore Australia’s National Parks

With over 500 National Parks, Australia is a nature lovers paradise. Here are our favourite Australian National Parks that MUST be on your Australia Bucket List!

Blue Mountains National Park (NSW)

With a range of day and overnight trips   available from Sydney – you can take in the Eucalyptus forest, learn about aboriginal legends, gaze upon the sweeping views across the valley, sleep under the stars, jump on a photography tour, or get your adventure travel on with activities like biking, abseiling and caving.

Kosciuszko National Park (NSW)

Offering some of the countries best ski areas in Perisher Ski Resort (which can be visited on a day trip from Sydney ) and Thredbo Ski Resort, which also has a year-round chairlift for valley views. This New South Wales national park just has to be on your Australia Bucket List.

Royal National Park (NSW)

Kakadu National Park (NT)

Kakadu National Park is also rich in Aboriginal History and Aboriginal rock paintings, dating to prehistoric times, can be viewed at sites such as Nourlangie, Nanguluwur and Ubirr. You could spend a lifetime exploring this incredibly beautiful park of Australia and this is one National Park where a day trip is not going to cut it. (Although they are available if you are short on time!).

For the best experience, we recommend at least a minimum of a 3 day tour – but if you can, give yourself the better part of a week on a 5 day tour from Darwin . You won’t regret it!

Litchfield National Park (NT)

Uluru-Kata Tjuta (NT)

Uluru is sacred to indigenous Australians and is thought to have started forming around 550 million years ago. You can fly into Uluru from most major airports in Australia, although there are limited accommodation options available in the Park itself so make sure you check availability before booking flights to help you tick off this incredible natural wonder and Australian Bucket List site!

RELATED: No trip to Australia would be complete without seeing Uluru: Spend 4 days exploring Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park & Kings Canyon for less than $450!

Daintree National Park (QLD)

Home to a variety of natural wonders, including the world heritage listed Mossman Gorge and the incredible Cape Tribulation where you can zipline, bush-walk and bird-watch where the rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef – one of the most unique locations on the planet.

This area can easily be explored on a luxury day trip   from Cairns or Port Douglas with Backpacker-orientated tours   being slightly cheaper (and possibly/probably more fun!)

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (QLD)

It’s home to countless species of colourful fish, molluscs and starfish, plus turtles, dolphins and sharks – which makes snorkeling or diving here Australias top outdoor activity! It was designated a World Heritage site in 1981 and is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of The World. With a variety of different ways to explore the national park from taking a scenic flight   above it, skydiving down to it, scuba diving or snorkelling below it or day sailing   through it – there are options to suit everyone!

RELATED: If you like water based adventures, you’ll love a P&O Comedy Cruise – They’re the best short break from Australia and leave from most major cities in the country!

Whitsunday National Park (QLD)

It is said to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and can visited on a day trip , or on a multi-day sailing tour with backpacker boats for those on a budget, and a boats with a little more luxury  for those who appreciate a certain level of comfort (like me!) And for those that doesn’t like sailing – fear not – because you can take a seaplane flight to (and over) Whitehaven Beach  – which also fly’s over the reef including the ‘heart of the ocean’ and will give you the most incredible set of aerial photos! (and it’s not as expensive as you might think!)

Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park (SA)

Due to it’s location, day trips from Adelaide are out of the question, but there is plenty of camp sites available for those that want to self drive, or can be combined with more of South Australia on various group tours such as this 6 Day tour of the Eyre Peninsula  (starts & ends in Adelaide) or head all the way up to Uluru on this Adelaide to Alice Springs  7 day adventure!

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park (TAS)

RELATED: Explore central and western Tasmania on this 3 day tour from Hobart to Launceston   taking in Derwent Valley, Lake St Clair, Henty Dunes, Tarkine Rainforest, Dove Lake and Marion’s Lookout!

Freycinet National Park (TAS)

Grampians National Park (VIC)

Covering a whopping 646 square miles visitors have plenty of areas to chose from, from the iconic Halls Gap in the North, to picturesque Hamilton in the South, across to vibrant Horsham in the West and historic Ararat in the East. Or for those that are short on time, a day trip from Melbourne  is just what you need to experience this beautiful part of the world.

RELATED: You can also combine the Grampians with the Great Ocean Road  on the 3 day adventure from Melbourne to Adelaide.

Port Campbell National Park (VIC)

The 12 Apostles are towards the end of the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne, and the visitors centre is free to enter and provides for some incredible photographic opportunities. And if you want a more impressive view – opt for one of the 15 minute helicopter tours which take you a little way above the Great Ocean Road as well as over the Apostles or walk down all 86 of the Gibson Steps to see two impressive rocky outcrops from sea level.

Christmas Island National Park (WA)

Kalbarri National Park (WA)

The Murchison River gorges in the Kalbarri National Park are particularly spectacular and have been carved over millions of years to form dramatic sandstone cliff faces which plummet into the River as it meanders towards the township of Kalbarri. The impressive Skywalk opened in 2019 and now gives visitors with incredible aerial views about the park below.

Purnululu National Park (WA)

Australia Bucket List Experiences: Top Australian Tourist Attractions + Iconic Aussie Things to do

Climb the sydney harbour bridge (nsw).

There are a variety of time slots and routes – with the standard Sydney Harbour Bridge climb taking 3.5 hours to reach the 440 foot summit (and suitable for all fitness levels); there is also a ‘sampler’ Sydney Harbour Bridge climb to take you half way inside the inner arch (in case you’re not the biggest fan of heights and still want to give it a go!) or there is an express climb which reaches the top in 2.25 hours which runs at a faster pace with fewer stops.

Add in the option to climb at sunrise, sunset and anywhere else in between and you can easily find the perfect climb for you and tick this iconic experience off your NSW bucket list! Book your Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb here!

Learn to Surf at Byron Bay (NSW)

OTHER COOL & FUN THINGS TO DO IN BYRON: If you’re not a fan of the surf or other water sports, there are so many other great things to do in Byron such as Visiting the Hippi Mecca of Nimbin ; Heading out on the open water for some Sea Kayaking ; walking up to the most Easterly point of Australia at the Cape Byron Lighthouse.

You can throw yourself out of a plane with a Tandem skydive ; Sail out into the ocean for some on-deck Whale Watching  (in season); Throw on a pair of fins and get PADI qualified on an Open Water Scuba Course ; go snorkelling with Turtles , head south to Broken Head Nature Reserve; embrace your inner yogi (it’s a big thing in Byron!), visit the weekend markets (which are free) or simply chill out on one of the many beautiful beaches in the area. Read the Ultimate Guide to Byron for more!

Visit Yamba (NSW)

It’s also been voted one #1 in Australian Travelers Best Towns in Australia list (and just because the article is a little out of date, doesn’t mean that it isn’t right!)

Visit Sydney’s Famous Beaches: Manly, Bondi & Coogee (NSW)

BUT if you like your beaches a little less crowded or a little less well known, take the 40 minute coastal walk from Bondi Beach to it’s quieter sister Bronte; or hop on a bus from Manly and head up to Palm Beach where you’ll find a long strip of sand, bushland and dunes.

Explore the Outback at Kings Canyon (NT)

If travelling independently but without your own car, you can get a coach transfer from either spot to Kings Canyon Resort  for around $120-140. From there you can spend a few days exploring the park, marvelling at the soaring sandstone walls which are home to over 600 species of native plants and animals, many of which are unique to the area.

For those who are not a fan of outback driving themselves, the 4 day Rock To Rock Tour   will take you on a 4 day trip around the Northern Territory from Uluru with stops at Kata Tjuta, Kings Creek Station, Kings Canyon and the big rock itself.

Kayak the Katherine Gorge (NT)

(And if you do, don’t forget your camera for some epic starry sky shots – we recommend the Sony A6000 set to manual with a long(ish) exposure time and a lightweight tripod!)

And if you don’t fancy being practically in the water, a cultural river cruise , lunch cruise or sunset dinner cruise  may be the perfect way to experience life on the water – without having to propel yourself across it!

Visit Arnhem Land (NT)

It is defined by rocky escarpments, gorges, rivers and waterfalls and is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Australia. It’s home to the traditional landowners, the Yolngu people, and permits are required to visit . These should be applied for 10 days in advance or can be circumvented if you join an organized tour from Darwin  where the tour leader has permission to enter.

Watch the Sunrise (or set) at Ayres Rock/Uluru (NT)

Travel Through Australia’s Red Center on The Ghan (NT & SA)

Book into a private cabin, watch the landscape sail by and get out to explore at various points along the way. And with Gold and Platinum level services onboard, including mouthwatering meals and award winning Australian wines, you are in for one heck of a journey!

Dive the Great Barrier Reef (QLD)

You can chose any number of dives to get your fix – from day dives with snorkelling opportunities to 2-7 day liveaboards  packed with multiple day and night dives, or you can even live on a boat for 5 days and get PADI qualified !

Get in the Water with a Giant Saltwater Crocodile (NT)

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Crocosaurus Cove Darwin (@crocosauruscove)

You can swim among young crocodiles, or try feeding the crocodiles – if you dare! And for the adrenaline-junkies amongst you, why not hop inside the Cage of Death   and meet Wendell?! For 15 minutes you can be in the water with up to 200 of Australia’s largest saltwater crocodiles in the only Crocodile Dive in Oz.

Go Dune Bashing  in a 4×4 on Fraser Island (QLD)

On a Fraser Island day trip   you can drive down Seventy-Five Mile Beach to see the technicolour sand cliffs of the Pinnacles and SS Maheno shipwreck and overnight camping 2 day  or 3 day 4WD tours also include swimming in the crystal clear Lake McKenzie, floating peacefully down Eli Creek and taking in the incredible views from Indian Head lookout – just to name a few highlights!

And if you’re not a camper (there’s no shame in that, I’m not a camper) there are 3 day tour options where you get to stay in a Lodge on 75 mile beach.

Minjin Swing through the Jungle in Cairns (QLD)

Aj Hackett is famous all over the world for it’s bungee jumps from various different heights and off various different structures. And whilst you can Bungy Jump  in Cairns, there is also the slightly less terrifying Minjin Swing where you soar headfirst through the jungle suspended from wires. The flight is smooth and the thrills are big, and even better – you can experience it with a couple of friends or fly with your significant other and find out who screams the loudest!

And if you’re still looking for an ‘up in the air’ attraction but don’t fancy swinging through the air at high speed, take a ride of the Kuranda scenic railway which runs from Cairns over the Great Dividing Range to the town of Kuranda on the Atherton Tableland.

Sail The Whitsundays (QLD)

Spend a Day at White Haven Beach (QLD)

Cage Dive with Great White Sharks (SA)

Discover the Underground Town of Coober Pedy (SA)

It’s also one of the most unique towns in the world in that the majority of the residents live below ground in homes known as dugouts due to the searing 40+ degree temperature the region often suffers. Go and see this subterranean town, explore the museums  and grab yourself a fair dinkum piece of Australian opal.

Meet Seals and Kangaroos at Kangaroo Island (SA)

In the west, Flinders Chase National Park is known for penguin colonies and striking coastal rock formations, like the sculpted Remarkable Rocks and the stalactite-covered Admirals Arch. Hop on a cheap flight from Adelaide, or take the 30 minute ferry across the bay to start you adventure – or if you’re short on time, you could always join a day tour from Adelaide .

Swim with Sea Lions at Bairds Bay (SA)

To swim with sea lions is an incredible experience – although be warned, they don’t smell all that pleasant (but that doesn’t matter so much when you’re all in the water!)

Drive Australia’s Longest Straight Road: The Eyre Highway (SA/WA)

There’s a few hidden spots along the way to keep the journey interesting – such as the Head of Bight (for Whale Watching – May to September); The Bunda Cliffs – one of the longest uninterrupted cliff ranges in the world; and the Border Village – the point where South and Western Australia meet where there is a giant kangaroo for visitors to pose with and a signpost telling you how far away from various major cities throughout the world.

Fun fact – you can also play the longest round of golf with 18 towns along the highway participating to make up a full course which spans 1365km!

Learn about Tasmania’s Convict Past at Port Arthur (TAS)

View the Aurora Australis (TAS)

Go White Water Rafting (TAS)

Drive the Great Ocean Road (VIC)

Whichever way you want to do it is up to you – just make sure that you drive the Great Ocean Road at least once!

Explore Melbourne’s Iconic Laneways (VIC)

Go Wine Tasting in Victoria’s Yarra Valley (VIC)

There are multiple wineries that offer free tastings and if you’re not just into wine there is a dairy, chocolatarie and brewery to keep everyone happy: follow this route for the ultimate tour of the Yarra Valley. It’s also one of the best places to go hot air ballooning and has some of the most amazing views (and usually a Champagne breakfast)!

RELATED: Don’t forget about the other great wine regions in Australia such as the Barossa in South Australia, Margaret River & Swan Valley in Western Australia and the Hunter Valley in New South Wales. Each have a variety of wine tours available too so you don’t have to have a designated driver in the group!

Relax at the Peninsula Hot Springs (VIC)

And whilst you’re down on the Peninsula, why not combine you visit to the hot springs with a gourmet food and wine session  at an award winning winery in the region?

Tree Surfing on the Mornington Peninsula (VIC)

Go See The Penguins at Phillip Island (Vic)

Take a waddle on the wild side and see penguins at the world-famous Penguin Parade, Phillip Island – only 90 minutes from Melbourne. We recommend self-driving down there to ensure you are there for the evening parade – and if you booked early enough try and book onto the Ultimate Adventure Tour – where a limited number of people get to dress up in black and are given night vision goggles before being taken to a secluded private beach where you sit on a seat in the sand and watch the penguins walk right past your feet! (It’s one of the most epic of Australia tourist attractions and totally wildlife friendly!)

And no car – no worries! There are plenty of day trips from Melbourne  to make sure you don’t miss out on this incredible experience. (Also – if you don’t have time to get down to Philip Island, there are a colony of penguins that have been known to live around the St Kilda Pier – but you won’t be able to get as close to them as you can down at the Parade.

Watch the Camel Parade at Cable Beach (WA)

Many a Broome Sightseeing Day Trip  ends at the camel parade, where you also have the option to ride one – if that’s your kind of thing – although personally, I prefer the image of the camels themselves against the night sky (just my opinion, though!). It is easily one of the best places to visit in Australia

Frolic with the Dolphins at Monkey Mia (WA)

Gaze on the Pinnacles (WA)

See The Fluorescent Pink Lake (WA)

Snorkel with Whale Sharks at Ningaloo Reef (WA)

Whilst it is possible to Scuba Dive Ningaloo Reef, the best experience – and GoPro photos – will come from simply snorkelling and swimming with Whale Sharks. Day trips are run from Exmouth  between March/April and August (as that’s when they migrate along the coast) and are a one-in-a-lifetime type experience for visitors to Australia.  And between June and November, you may even spot some Manta Rays too!

Spend a day on Rottnest Island (WA)

Visit Wave Rock (WA)

And that’s a wrap folks – if you made it all the way to end of our epic Australia travel guide – good job & thank you! I hope you enjoyed our travel guide to just some of the Incredible Things To Do in Australia, packed full of travel tips to help you start ticking off all those Aussie Bucket-list worth adventures and experiences. And if I’ve missed your favourite Aussie experience, let me know in the comments below!

And if you don’t mind sharing the love for this Australian Bucket List, a tweet, flip, pin, or Facebook share would be much appreciated! (Full-sized pins available by clicking the share bar on the left) Happy Travels!

READY MORE TRAVEL INSPIRATION? YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN THESE RECENT POSTS, TRAVEL ARTICLES, DESTINATION GUIDES, TRAVELER RESOURCES, TRAVEL GEAR GUIDES AND RELATED POSTS ABOUT OTHER AMAZING PLACES AROUND AUSTRALIA:

• Test Your Aussie Knowledge: The Big Australia Trivia Quiz + 80+ Interesting Facts about Australia
• South Australia: Adelaide Travel Guide (Perfect for First Time Visitors)
• Australian Capital Territory: Top Things to do in the ACT
• Queensland: QLD Bucket List (inc. the some of the best spots on the East Coast Australia – think Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Airlie Beach, and the Great Barrier Reef) + 50 Things to do in Outback Queensland
• New South Wales: Top Things to do in Sydney (inc. The Sydney Opera House, Byron Bay & the Blue Mountains ) & Best Places to visit in NSW + Incredible Ski Resorts in NSW
• Victoria: Free Things to do in Melbourne , Melbourne Travel Guide (Perfect for First Timers), Best Time To Visit Melbourne (Month by Month Guide) + Best Day Trips from Melbourne (inc. the Great Ocean Road)
• General Australia Inspiration: 25 Best Places to Visit in Australia (inc. Alice Springs in the NT!) + Best Australian Travel Apps + Australia Travel Tips to Know Before You Go + Incredible Australian Food (You Absolutely HAVE to Try)

Hi There! Thanks for reading our post about The Ultimate Australia Bucket List – 100+ Australia Tourist Attractions & Top Things to Do In Australia! I just wanted to let you know that this post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full Disclosure here .

Top attractions in Australia

Exciting adventure activities, absorbing museums, vast empty landscapes, and indigenous culture – here, at a glance, are our top recommendations of things to see in Australia.

Looking for a tailor-made holiday? Our local travel expert can plan a private trip for you. Book now!

Here is our selection of hand-picked top attractions and things to do  in Australia .

1. The Great Barrier Reef

More than 2,000km (1,240 miles) of mostly pristine coral gardens and rich aquatic life, the Reef rewards divers, snorkellers or those who simply gaze through glass-bottomed boats. Read more about the Great Barrier Reef...

2. Sydney Harbour

The Opera House is deservedly on everyone’s list as a must-see attraction in Australia – it’s on the Unesco World Heritage list, after all – and when you combine it with the iron bulk of Sydney Harbour Bridge , you have one of the great vistas of the world.

Rising out of the parched red centre of the country, Uluru (Ayers Rock) is the dramatic touchstone of this ancient continent. It’s a sacred site to its Aboriginal custodians, and worth travelling thousands of kilometres to see. Read more about Uluru...

4. Canberra’s museums and galleries

Gathered around Lake Burleigh Griffin is what collectively amounts to the most impressive collection of educational and cultural showpieces in Australia. Read more about Canberra...

5. Port Arthur

Tasmania’s grim penal settlement provides something of a crash course in Australia’s colonial history. The setting, ironically, is stunning. Read more about Port Arthur...

6. Australia’s wineries

In a nation rich in high-class, picturesque wineries, the Barossa , Hunter and Margaret River regions stand out as some of the finest.

7. The Great Ocean Road

International car companies regularly shoot their television commercials on Victoria’s stupendously scenic coastal drive. Read more about the Great Ocean Road...

8. Kakadu National Park

Of the numerous National Parks, this one is unmissable with its mixture of indigenous flora and fauna along with ancient Aboriginal culture. Read more about Kakadu National Park...

9. Wildflowers in Western Australia

Springtime, beginning in September, is when the countryside around Perth and southern West Australia is awash with technicolour blooms.

10. Mindil Beach Sunset Market

Feel the pulse of tropical Darwin while eating, drinking and shopping at this outdoor market. Read more about Mindil Beach Sunset Market...

Buy a book    Insight Guides: Australia

Insight into australian culture, insight into australian history, discover   best beaches in australia on our blog.

Read more from the travel guide to Australia

• Historical highlights
• Cultural features
• Plan your trip
• Top restaurants
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Top 50 famous attractions in Australia you should definitely visit

The world’s smallest continent and the largest island, Australia is a traveler’s paradise. From being home to some of the quirkiest wildlife and revered tales of the aboriginal tribes, Australia is a complete package with its coral reefs, picturesque rain forests, red-earthed national parks, stunning beaches, and scorching deserts.   Australia is also a land of staggering contrasts and spectacular beauty. Along the coast, you can explore vibrant multicultural cities, rainforests, and planet's most awe-inspiring natural wonders. In the Outback, rugged national parks and red-earthed deserts offer the ultimate in adventure travel. Top it all off with a laid-back feel and friendly people. Here are our Top 50 famous attractions in Australia you should definitely visit You may interested in our comprehensive Australia Travel Guide

1. The Sydney Opera House

Located at Bennelong Point in Sydney, the Sydney Opera house is a multi-venue performing art center located in the heart of the city. It is one of the most prominent tourist attraction places with over eight million people visiting it every year. The opera house has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List on 28th June 2007. The opera house is home to some of the best performing arts that happen in the country. Multiple events in all sorts of art happen in the Sydney Opera house so tourists can enjoy them. For recreational purposes, there are various bars, cafes, and restaurants inside it.

Read more : Sydney Travel Guide: 30 things you need to know for an awesome trip

2. The Great Barrier Reef

The World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef is one of the largest living structures on the planet. In 1975, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park was established to protect its ecosystems, which include more than 3,000 coral reefs; 600 continental islands; 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. The astounding array of marine life includes soft and hard corals, more than 1600 species of tropical fish, sharks, dugongs, dolphins, turtles, rays, and giant clams. If you prefer to stay dry, you can see the reef from underwater viewing stations and glass bottom boats.

3. Sydney Harbor

Home to one of the world’s most famous landmarks, the Sydney Harbor is the center for a variety of land and water-based activities. Located in Sydney New South Wales, it is in close proximity to most of the transportation facilities. The harbor bustles with locals and visitors enjoying the water from ferries, yachts, and kayaks,... The harbor, surrounded by miles of pristine shoreline, historic sites, and national parks, is home to an array of restaurants, cafés, and bars providing a vibrant nightlife and entertainment. Enjoy scenic ferry cruises, relax on a chartered yacht, or visit one of the islands in the harbor, including Fort Denison, Goat, or Cockatoo Islands.

4. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

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 Area jointly managed by Parks Australia. Uluru, meaning "shadowy place" in the local aboriginal dialect, rises to a height of 348 meters from the surrounding plain, with most of its bulk hidden beneath the earth's surface. Also in the park are the red dome-shaped rocks called Kata Tjuta (the Olgas).

5. Blue Mountains National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, beautiful Blue Mountains National Park lies 81 kilometers west of Sydney. This stunning park protects more than 664,000 acres of wilderness and encompasses dramatic gorges, waterfalls and 140 kilometers of hiking trails. The most famous attractions in the 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.

6. Great Ocean Road

Most top tourist destinations have spectacular driving routes, and for Australia, one of its best is the Great Ocean Road in Melbourne. The road stretches for 300 kilometers along Australia's southeast coast, from the surfing town of Torquay to the town of Allansford, near Warrnambool, in the state of Victoria. The top attraction along the road is Port Campbell National Park, with the wind and wave-sculpted rock formations known as the Twelve Apostles, London Bridge, the Arch, and Loch Ard Gorge. From a helicopter tour, these rock formations look like giant puzzle pieces, lashed by the pounding surf of the Southern Ocean. Other highlights along the road include the popular holiday resort town of Lorne and Otway National Park, an area of dense eucalyptus forests, fern-filled rainforests, hiking trails, and waterfalls.

7. St. Mary's Cathedral

St. Mary’s Cathedral is in the center of Sydney. A lot of artists have contributed to St Mary’s Cathedral in their designs in stone and glass thereby creating a special space of solitude in Sydney. The Cathedral is believed to be the most treasured historic building here in Sydney. More importantly, St Mary’s Cathedral displays one of the most surprisingly beautiful English styles of gothic churches in the world. William Wilkinson Wardell conceptualized a gothic type structure shaped from the local yellow-block sandstone. This Cathedral is the representation of the origins of the Catholic Church. Open not only to Catholics, all people, irrespective of the religion, can make a visit to the St Mary’s Cathedral to gather some inner peace.

8. Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia's second largest city, is a popular stop on many Australian itineraries. It's a green city, with parks, gardens, and open spaces occupying almost a third of its total area. Highlights of the city include the Royal Botanic Gardens; Federation Square; the National Gallery of Victoria; and the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where sports fans can watch cricket in the summer and Australian Rules football in the winter. Shoppers flock to the elegant Royal Arcade on Bourke Street, as well as Chapel Street; the Melbourne Central Shopping Center; and Queen Victoria Market, which has been selling fruits, vegetables, clothes, and crafts for more than a century.

9. Bondi Beach

Only 15 minutes by car from the city center, Bondi Beach is home to one of the oldest surf life-saving clubs in the world. It's also a great spot for a seaside stroll or picnic, and crowds of tourists and locals gather here to celebrate Christmas and ring in the New Year. A great way to soak up the sea views is to stroll along the scenic Bondi to Bronte coastal walk, which begins at the southern end of the beach and follows the coastline for six kilometers along sandstone cliffs. Shops, cafes, and restaurants lie across the street from this famous coastal strip. Take care when swimming at Bondi. Strong riptides often sweep unsuspecting swimmers out to sea, especially at the southern end of this kilometer-long strand, so swimmers should stay between the flags.

10. Chinatown

Located in Haymarket, between Darling Harbor and Central station, it is Australia's largest Chinatown. Showcasing the best of China's food and culture in Sydney's Chinatown, this urban locality rests in the southern part of Sydney's central business district. An enthralling experience for any food lover, you can get all of your favorite classic Chinese food right here. Chinatown is sure to give you an intensely rewarding experience as here you can immerse yourself in Chinese culture and history and partake in its many festivals that take place throughout the year. What makes Chinatown extraordinary are the specialty shops wherein one can buy things which would not normally be available elsewhere.

11. Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage Site and one of the planet's great wilderness areas. Covering more than 19,840 square kilometers, Kakadu is the largest national park in Australia and the second largest in the world. Within its borders lie monsoon rainforests, mangrove swamps, rivers, gorges, ancient rock paintings, wetlands, and waterfalls, as well as 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. You can explore the park's diverse ecosystems by car, air, boat, or on foot via the vast network of hiking trails. Note that during the wet season (Nov-April), many roads and attractions close due to heavy flooding.

12. Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park is a national tourism treasure for nature lovers. Sparkling lakes, alpine heathland, and dense forests characterize the raw, glacier-carved wilderness here, and 1,616-meter Mount Ossa is one of the park's most distinctive features and the highest point in Tasmania. As you might expect, hiking here is fantastic. Favorites 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. Keep an eye out for Tasmanian devils, wombats, wallabies, pademelons, and platypus among the many species of weird and wonderful wildlife.

13. Sydney Tower

Sydney Tower is one of the tallest structure and the second tallest observation tower in the southern hemisphere. The tower is 1,014 feet high and among the most eye-catching places of tourist attraction. It is also known as Sydney Tower Eye, AMP Tower, Westfield Centre point Tower or Sydney Sky tower. Sydney Tower is located in the new Westfield shopping center at the corner of the Pitt Street and Market Street. To reach here, the quickest and easy way is to use public transport. Views of Sydney from the tower eye provide some of the most spectacular views one will witness during their visit here. At the base of the tower, there is a shopping center that has restaurants and a coffee lounge with the revolving view of the Sydney Skyline.

14. The Rocks

Known as Sydney’s creative hub, The Rocks is a vibrant and dynamic precinct on Sydney’s foreshore that combines old and new to form a nucleus of markets, festivals, contemporary art, and ever-evolving pop-up spaces. Situated on the edge of the breathtaking Sydney Harbor with spectacular views of the Sydney Harbor Bridge and Opera House, The Rocks boasts an array of attractions, from historic architecture and intimate cobblestoned laneways to bustling markets, busy restaurants, and stylish modern bars. Visitors can enjoy guided educational tours through the gentrified neighborhood, which showcases its rich and fascinating heritage.

15. Queen Victoria Building

The Queen Victoria Building is a late nineteenth-century building in the central business district of Sydney that is home to a variety of businesses, shops, and restaurants. It was built as a monument to the long-reigning monarch and later became a marketplace, which still stands today. The exquisitely restored building consists of four main shopping floors, which are naturally lit through the stained glass windows of a mighty center dome. The building features magnificent design details such as intricate tiled floors, arches, balustrades, and pillars. The northern end, which was previously a beautiful Grand Ballroom, is now a popular tearoom.

16. Daintree National Park

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, where the 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.

17. Fraser Island

Fraser Island, just a short ferry trip from Hervey Bay, is the largest sand island in the world and a major part of Australia sightseeing. It offers one of Australia’s most unique four-wheel-drive adventures. You can also travel by ferry from Rainbow Beach and Hervey Bay. The island has rain forests with an astounding diversity of wildlife, sand dunes, freshwater lakes and creek, multi-colored sand cliffs heaps of shipwrecks along the wonderful sea coast,  marine life including dolphins, whales, and sharks.

18. Susannah Place Museum

Susannah Place Museum is a historic museum which was built in the year 1844. The architecture of the four terrace house is something which will take you back in time. The museum stands as a sign of all the working class people in the locality. A few things were recently repaired in the museum so that it stays stable to be visited by tourists. Located in The Rocks, Sydney, getting to the place is quite easy as you can take many public transportation facilities heading to the museum. Tourists mostly visit the place for its architecture and rich heritage. It has been in existence since more than a century back so it's definitely worth a visit.

19. Kangaroo Island

Nature takes center stage at beautiful Kangaroo Island off the Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia. 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 the sea dragons in the temperate waters, and many wrecks lie offshore. The striking, wind-sculpted rock formations, known as the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch in Flinders Chase National Park are other distinctive features of the island, and you'll find plenty of hiking trails along the soaring sea cliffs and in the pristine forests. Foodies, too, will be in heaven. Creamy cheeses, Ligurian honey, and fresh seafood grace the plates in local restaurants.

20. Royal Botanic Garden

Situated in the center of Sydney, the Royal Botanic Gardens are one of the largest botanical institutions in the world. Founded in 1816, the gardens are open to the public every day of the year and access is free of charge. Spanning 30 hectares (74 acres), the gardens are divided into four sections, namely the Lower Gardens, the Middle Gardens, the Palace Gardens, and the Bennelong precinct. These sections contain smaller gardens and wooded lawn areas, which form a natural amphitheater around a zone called Farm Cove. In the middle of the gardens is the Palm Grove Center, which has a modern visitor’s center, restaurant, and bookshop.

21. Royal National Park

Royal National Park is the second oldest and protected National Park in South Sydney. In December 2006, the park was added under Australian National Heritage List. It is also known as Nasho or Royals and was established in the year 1879. Royal National Park is located at Sutherland Shire, New South Wales in eastern Australia. Public transports like the ferry, tram, and trains are easily accessible to the national park. This place has incredible landscapes and beaches and is the best place to explore the beauty of nature. It's also a perfect place for walking, cycling, surfing, picnicking, whale watching or bird watching.

22. Chapel Street

A shopper’s paradise, Melbourne beckons the shopaholics and the tourists alike with its magnificent shopping places which speak of elegance, style, and luxury. You can check out for extravagant, upmarket fashion boutiques, some world-class restaurants to keep you entertained in Chapel Street. Look out for the fashionable collections by the local designers on Brigade road.

23. Carlton Gardens

Carlton Buildings and the Royal Exhibition Building are the two Australia tourist attractions listed among World Heritage sites. Built in the 18th century, they are also one of the oldest sites existing as Australia tourist attractions.

24. Yarra Valley

Melbourne is one of the very few cities in the world that can be traversed in a hot air balloon, and Yarra Valley is the place to do that. Ballooning over the Yarra Valley takes you above one of Victoria’s most spectacular winery regions, offering breathtaking views of the lush landscapes and vineyards.

25. Heide Museum of Modern Art

Heide Museum of Modern Art is a combination of a contemporary art gallery, historical art museum and heritage park. The best reason to visit this unique museum is its beautiful location; it’s set upon a vast lush farmland. A major part of Australia tourism, it is a must-visit place!

Besides these 25 above destinations, we also list out 25 more places in Australia below:

26. collaroy beach, 27. taronga zoo, 28. wild life sydney zoo, 29. sydney harbor bridge, 30. tasmania’s museum of old and new art, 31. nicholson museum, 32. mountain kosciuszko, 33. king’s cross, 34. sydney observatory, 35. seaworld marine park, 36. macquarie street, 37. circular quay, 38. darling harbor, 39. barangaroo reserve, 40. george street, 41. purnululu national park, 42. whitsunday islands, 43. westfield sydney, 44. canberra’s museums and galleries, 45. port arthur, 46. palm beach, 47. ku-ring gai chase national park, 48. the southern highlands, 50. hyde park.

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Uluru Astro Tours, Uluru, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Tourism Australia

Australia’s most famous natural landmarks

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Towering waterfalls, bubble-gum pink lakes and the Great Barrier Reef are just some of Australia’s famous natural landmarks waiting to be explored.

By Allie Metz

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and home to amazingly diverse marine life . Above the water, the reef is dotted with picturesque tropical islands and some of the world’s most beautiful sun-soaked beaches. You can visit them all on an island escape or from exciting coastal gateways like Cairns and the Whitsundays .

Guide to the Great Barrier Reef

Take a dip in The Great Barrier Reef and see why most of the world has added this Australian destination to their bucket list.

Read time • 4min

Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park, in the heart of the Red Centre , is home to two of the country’s most astounding rock formations – Kata Tju t a and Ulu r u. The sheer size of these monoliths will impress, as they emerge from an otherwise flat landscape. But it’s the spirituality and rich Aboriginal history connected to these sacred places that will leave a lasting impression.

Guide to Uluru and Kata Tjuta

The ancient rock formations of Uluru and Kata Tjuta rise from the land to make an incredible sight.

Almost too baffling (and beautiful) to believe, Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre in South Australia is known for its beautiful pink hue, stretching across an incredible 144 km (89 mi). Most of the time, the lake is comprised of a dry, sparkling pink salt bed, but once every few years, a downpour of rain floods the region in a dazzling display. The best way to experience the pastel pink spectacle is aboard a scenic flight from the underground opal mining town of Coober Pedy during a half-day adventure with Wrightsair .

Australia's pink lakes

Australia is home to many beguiling natural attractions, but its extraordinary pink lakes have got to be seen to be believed.

One of the highlights of the spectacular Great Ocean Road, the 12 Apostles rise defiantly from the wild Southern Ocean, creating spectacular vistas both from above and below. Soar above the remaining spires (there are just eight still standing) in a helicopter, or take the Gibson Steps down to the sand to appreciate the vertical coastal cliffs from another angle.

Guide to the Great Ocean Road

Experience the rugged beauty along the south-west coast of Victoria by setting off along one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives.

The crystal clear waters of Ningaloo Reef are home to the world’s largest fringing reef, a 260km (162mi) long coral reef you can access right from the beach. It’s a wildlife wonderland, famous for its abundance of turtles, tropical fish, manta rays and humpback whales. But perhaps the most famous locals are the giant-yet-gentle whale sharks, which congregate here in large numbers each winter.

Guide to Ningaloo Reef

Beside the red soils of the Cape Range lies the turquoise lagoons of Ningaloo Reef, home to some of the world’s most incredible marine creatures.

Located in Blue Mountains National Park, the Three Sisters is a strikingly unusual rock formation that, according to Aboriginal legend, represents three sisters who were turned to stone. The tallest of the sisters stands at over 920m (3,000ft) above sea level, towering over the blue haze of the Jamison Valley. View them from Echo Point Lookout, or embark on one of the many bushwalks in the area for a unique perspective.

Guide to the Blue Mountains

For a holiday centred around the outdoors, head to the Blue Mountains to marvel at impressive rock formations, potter around in quaint villages or explore epic wilderness.

Winter in Tasmania is filled with incredible experiences, and if you’re ready to leave urban life for a wilderness escape, you may just be rewarded with the most spectacular natural light show. The Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis, is a colourful natural phenomenon that paints the night sky with flickers of blue, purple, green and red.

Where to see The Southern Lights

Travelling in Tasmania? Keep your eyes peeled for one of nature’s most magnificent shows.

Read time • 3min

The four-tiered Mitchell Falls is a spectacular site, set amidst the red rocks of the Kimberley . This oasis is set in an ever-changing landscape of tropical rainforest and dramatic cliffs. While it’s perhaps best viewed from the air, consider hiking the 8.6km (5.3mi) return track to see galleries of ancient rock art paintings, wildlife and panoramic views.

Wilpena Pound, in the Flinders Ranges, is a huge, sunken natural amphitheatre – a vast crater carved out of the desert, surrounded by jagged mountains. Covering eight times the area of Ulu r u, this region is renowned for its geological history. Join an Aboriginal guide to explore rock art, find ancient fossils and spot wildlife throughout this spectacular landscape.

Guide to the Flinders Ranges

Explore a landscape more than 600 million years old.

Chasms, gorges and the signature yellow and black striped domes of the Bungle Bungle Range are some of the iconic natural attractions that make the Kimberley region so geologically astounding. The Bungle Bungles themselves, caused by twenty million years of erosion, are a spectacular sight from the ground or from a scenic flight. The fact that so few people have visited this remote region makes it all the more special.

Guide to Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles)

The orange and black striped domes of the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park are as beautiful as they are bizarre – an unmissable icon of Western Australia’s Kimberley region.

Giant boulders perched precariously on the cliffs of Flinders Chase National Park, the Remarkable Rocks are one of Kangaroo Island’s most unique natural attractions. Covered with bright orange lichen and carved away by wind erosion, the granite boulders have been shaped into sculptural masterpieces that come to life at sunrise and sunset.

Guide to Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is a nature lover's paradise, with prolific native wildlife, dramatic coastal sightseeing and bountiful farmlands.

Head underground at Jenolan Caves to wander the stalactite-lined maze of caverns shaped by subterranean rivers. There are 10 caves to explore, each with its own mix of chambers and formations. Don’t miss Orient Cave, often regarded as one of the world's most beautiful. While you’re here, spend some time above ground as well, exploring nearby scenic walking tracks through wildlife-rich bushland.

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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Seven Aussie tourist attractions make world’s ‘most boring’ list

Australia appears to be home to seven of the world’s ‘most boring’ attractions and not everyone is happy about it.

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Australia appears to be home to seven of the world’s “most boring” attractions, according to a contentious new global study.

The research — conducted by Solitaired in March — has listed the Top 100 Most Boring Attractions Worldwide and it’s already got some Aussies fired up after iconic hotspots across Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Tasmania made the cut.

“We analysed 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide, spanning 384 cities across 71 countries, focusing on 11 keywords indicative of tiresome, lifeless, and downright boring impressions,” Solitaired wrote on its site.

As such, researchers ranked the attractions by the frequency with which tourists mentioned boredom-related keywords, comparing the mentions to the total reviews for each spot.

The study did not focus on the star-rating of Google reviews, but rather identified the number of times words such as “tiresome”, “lifeless,” and “boring”, were written by reviewers.

American attractions took up the top seven spots, while Shrek’s Adventure London snagged eighth place.

Four Legoland Discovery Centres made the top 25, with Melbourne’s coming in at 24th alongside a ‘boredom score’ of 2.30.

The other Melbourne attraction to make the list was Luna Park at 80. It had a ‘boredom score’ of 1.90, i.e the number of times the boredom-related keywords were mentioned in its 7996 reviews.

Some West Aussies were shocked to learn the WA Museum Boola Bardip ranked 16th on the global list, with the unique Bell Tower scraping in at 92.

“Naw I thought the museum was good. Maybe it needs a better name that makes it sound more exciting,” one person wrote on Facebook.

“Fantastic museum, got something for everyone in here. Lots about the history of Perth/ Western Australia as well as some really interesting geology exhibits,” another wrote in their Google review.

“I love the museum!!” a third proclaimed, while others also defended Bell Tower.

“Bell tower times is an absolute belter though,” one said.

However, not everyone was of the same view with many agreeing the only four-year-old $400 million WA museum is “underwhelming”.

“Yup I’d agree. Spent so much money on it and now there’s nothing left in it to see. Such a shame,” one local wrote.

“It was a great museum when my kids were little. There was a great kids area with lots of activities and some very interesting collections. Now you need a torch to go round,” wrote another, while others blamed the location.

“It’s not only the museum but where it is,” one person added.

It’s also worth noting that out of the 3515 Google reviews, it has a 4.5 star-rating.

But the Northbridge-based attraction wasn’t the only “boring” Aussie museum on the list with Melbourne’s Immigration Museum raking at 52 and the Museum of Sydney at 32.

They had a 4.4 star-rating based on 2,659 Google reviews and 41 star-rating based on 2345 reviews, respectively.

Meanwhile, WA Museum CEO Alec Coles argued the findings were at odds with other “credible” sources, insisting feedback on the Perth-based museum has been largely complimentary.

“The results of this supposed ‘survey’ contradict all credible data sources, all of which suggest that visitors are overwhelmingly positive about Boola Bardip,” Mr Coles told Perth Now .

He considered the museum’s dynamic calendar of events as key to attracting both new and repeat visitors.

“Each year WA Museum Boola Bardip develops and presents a range of captivating local and international exhibitions, interactive displays, diverse programs, and events.

“Last year’s Discovering Ancient Egypt exhibition attracted over 135,000 visitors and people have come over the last two weeks in their droves to visit the To the Moon exhibition.”

Another well-known attraction that also made the list was MONA in Berriedale, Tasmania.

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It ranked 76th out of 100 with a ‘boredom score’ of 1.90 based on 11,067 reviews.

However, it has a Google star-rating of 4.4 with those giving it top marks describing it as ‘fantastic’ and ‘amazing’, while others branded the popular museum ‘strange’ and ‘tasteless’.

Meanwhile, the world’s most boring mantle went to Branson Scenic Railway in the US state of Missouri with 3341 total reviews and a maximum boredom score of 5 out of 5.

Two British travellers who made a video slamming the country, calling it “overrated” have been trolled online.

A man has been filmed doing something very sweet mid-air as he took over the plane’s PA system.

A passenger has been roasted online after a fellow flyer caught the woman “cheating” — but not in the way you might first think.

The West Australian

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New study claims Australia is home to seven of the top 100 ‘most boring’ tourist attractions in the world

A contentious new study based on Google reviews from thousands of the globe’s tourist hot spots has formed the basis of a Top 100 Most Boring Attractions Worldwide list.

The research — conducted by Solitaired in March — analysed 66.7 million reviews from 3,290 attractions on the search juggernaut spanning 71 countries and 384 cities.

Importantly, the study did not focus on the star-rating of Google reviews, but rather identified the number of times keywords, such as “tiresome”, “lifeless,” and “boring”, were written by reviewers within them.

“We ranked the attractions by the frequency with which tourists mentioned boredom-related keywords, comparing the mentions to the total reviews for each spot,” Solitaired said.

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Proud West Aussies may find their egos somewhat dented, with WA Museum Boola Bardip number 16 on the global list, and our unique Bell Tower scraping in at 92.

While the museum topped the seven-strong Aussie contingent of so-called “boring” attractions, Melbourne’s Immigration Museum at 52 and the Museum of Sydney at 32 were similarly dull, according to visitors.

Despite the Northbridge-based treasure receiving a boredom score of 2.5 out of 5 from 3446 reviews, its Google rating of 4.5 stars suggests the experience of visitors is overwhelmingly positive.

One five-star review read: “Highly recommended as one of the must-go places in Perth City! You might need at least 6 hours to cover all exhibits.

“The museum covers everything from Natural History, People, Astronomy and Culture. Suitable for all ages. Kids will surely love the Natural History section thanks to the dinosaurs and prehistoric animals exhibits. Tickets are free for kids 12 years and below.”

However, the occasional unimpressed visitor could be found expressing their negative appraisal on the platform.

“Very boring, there was no flow with the layout or the theme of the museum, seemed to me to be very bitsy and all over the show. Would have been good to see artefacts from around the world.

“Would not recommend if you are after some history from around the globe,” a one-star review read.

WA Museum CEO Alec Coles argued the findings were at odds with other “credible” sources, insisting feedback has been largely complimentary.

“The results of this supposed ‘survey’ contradict all credible data sources, all of which suggest that visitors are overwhelmingly positive about Boola Bardip,” Mr Coles said.

He considered the museum’s dynamic calendar of events as key to attracting both new and repeat visitors.

“Each year WA Museum Boola Bardip develops and presents a range of captivating local and international exhibitions, interactive displays, diverse programs, and events.

“Last year’s Discovering Ancient Egypt exhibition attracted over 135,000 visitors and people have come over the last two weeks in their droves to visit the To the Moon exhibition.”

WA Museum Boola Bardip has boasted a customer satisfaction score of between 95 and 99 per cent each year since opening in November 2020 — welcoming more than 1.68 million total visitors through their doors.

It even claimed the top awards for Major Tourism Attraction and Cultural Tourism Attraction at the 2023 Western Australian Tourism Awards, and was highly commended in the Australian National Tourism Awards.

Downtown, The Bell Tower holds a Google rating of 4.2 stars from 2,177 reviews — again, largely a positive attraction for tourists due to its unique design, aesthetic and picturesque location.

Most of the attraction’s mid-tier reviews were from visitors who had not paid to enter the tower and had only stopped for a brief glimpse outside.

One three-star review read: “We didn’t enter but only walked around the exterior of it and listened to the various bell tunes while we explored Elizabeth Quay.”

Branson Scenic Railway in the US state of Missouri claimed the world’s most boring mantle, with 3341 total reviews and a maximum boredom score of 5 out of 5.

Unsurprisingly, the expansive US comprised 62% of the 100 attractions noted in the unfavourable list.

More information on the study can be found here .

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