australia best cities to visit

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15 Best Cities to Visit in Australia

This huge country is home to a plethora of fantastic cities that are just waiting to be explored. While world-famous cities such as Sydney and Melbourne usually grab the limelight, the lesser-known cities in Australia have a wealth of things to see and do and are very much underrated in comparison.

With beautiful beaches, vibrant cultural scenes and amazing natural sights never far away, step off the beaten path and discover a whole new side of Australia .

15. Wollongong

Lying just eighty kilometers south of Sydney is the laidback city of Wollongong . Bordering two fantastic beaches, the city has some great surfing spots in and around the area, and while it is not particularly attractive, it has a lovely backdrop in the form of the verdant Illawarra Escarpment. Due to its university students, there is a lively feel about the place and a number of nice restaurants and bars to check out.

14. Launceston

Located on the banks of the Tamar River, Launceston is the second-largest city in the state of Tasmania , and its residents are fierce but friendly rivals with the capital city of Hobart. Despite its small stature, the city has some nice colonial architecture and a lively arts and food scene.

While it is quite pretty, the main attraction is the stunning Cataract Gorge, which has some intriguing trails for you to explore. The Tamar Valley vineyards are also worth visiting, as is the Ben Lomond National Park, not much further away.

13. Geelong

Lying just 70-kilometres away from Melbourne, the heart of Geelong is centered around the waterfront at Corio Bay, and it is here that visitors can find some quality restaurants and shops. In truth, the city is not the greatest to look at; it used to be a center of industry and as such, its urban sprawl is decidedly unappealing.

With a passionate fan-base however, Geelong is the perfect place to go and watch an Aussie rules football match. Many people use the city as a stop off on the way to exploring the Great Ocean Road and the Bellarine Peninsula.

12. Newcastle

Australia´s second-oldest city is a charming and laidback place which is actually pretty cool to visit. Located on the coast in New South Wales, Newcastle has some interesting historical architecture, plenty of great surf spots and, of course, a bounty of beautiful beaches for visitors to enjoy.

All of this masks the fact that the city was built on the coal industry, and is still the largest exporter of this ore in the world. Newcastle is a great base from which to explore the surrounding areas – including mountains, expansive beaches, and the nearby vineyards in Hunter Valley.

11. Alice Springs

Despite its remote location in the center of Australia, 1500-kilometers from the nearest city, Alice Springs is well worth a visit. Although it may take you a bit of time and effort to reach this small town, the scenic journey is half the attraction.

There is not a great deal of interest in the town itself – apart from the museums and Aboriginal art galleries – but its setting in the outback along with access to such stupendous sights as Uluru/Ayers Rock and Kata Tjuta/the Olgas make it worth the effort. Situated on the banks of the Todd River, Alice Springs is the perfect gateway to the many incredible landscapes and beautiful scenery that lie all around it.

10. Gold Coast

A popular destination among tourists and locals alike, Gold Coast´s primary drawcard is the spectacular combination of sun, sea and surf. Apartment blocks tower above the city´s almost endless array of beaches, with Surfers Paradise being the most popular of them all.

A beautiful place to visit, sunshine is almost guaranteed here. Coupled with the lively and raucous party scene, you´re guaranteed a good time on the Gold Coast . On top of all this, there are a variety of incredible amusement parks, which you could easily spend two or three days exploring.

With a bustling waterfront lined with things to see and do , a beautiful mountain forming a backdrop to the city, and the dark blue of the ocean surrounding the shore, Hobart is definitely a picturesque place to visit.

The southernmost city in the country, Hobart´s remote location on the island of Tasmania ironically helped to preserve its historic buildings and Victorian architecture – primarily because it was overlooked for so long. Now, the good times are back, with Hobart welcoming more and more people to its shores each year, thanks to its wealth of attractions and captivating buzz.

A cosmopolitan city, Darwin´s small stature belies the fact that it has a rich cultural heritage unique to Australia. Comprising citizens of over fifty nationalities, it is a multicultural place with an eclectic mix of Asian and Aboriginal influences.

This is what makes it so fascinating to visit. A laidback city on the coast of the Timor Sea in of Northern Territory, many people stop at Darwin and use it as a base to explore the nearby natural wonders of Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, as well as the impressive Tiwi Islands.

7. Canberra

The capital of Australia is a planned city that is slowly growing into a fantastic place to spend some time. Originally inhabited by politicians and civil servants, the young city now has numerous museums, galleries and monuments to explore.

Thanks in part to the large student body, there is a lively nightlife scene and a plethora of restaurants and bars to choose from. Located out in the bush, Canberra has lots of quality outdoor activities for you to sink your teeth into, with many visitors electing to stop by the nearby Namadgi National Park.

The laidback, youthful capital of Western Australia is the perfect place to visit if you´re looking to sit back and relax for a bit. With lovely beaches, amazing weather, and a cosmopolitan feel to it, Perth is a city to savor and enjoy. It has a wealth of bars, restaurants and cultural sites, as well as loads of outdoor activities, which attract visitors and locals alike.

Perth is one of the most isolated cities in the world – if you visit, you´re going to want to spend a good amount of time there to make the journey worthwhile. Lucky for you then that it´s a lovely place to be.

5. Brisbane

The third largest city in Australia, Brisbane is the capital of the Sunshine State, and as such, it is blessed with a delightful climate throughout the year. Consequently, there are an endless number of outdoor activities to get your blood pumping.

Ranging from kayaking and climbing to hiking and biking, there’s no reason to be a couch potato in Brisbane. Located on the banks of the Brisbane River, restaurants, bars, music venues and more spread out from the waterfront. It´s a vibrant and dynamic city full of positivity about what the future holds. It’s also now one of the music capitals of the world, thanks to its talented local Australian music scene.

4. Adelaide

Known as ´the city of churches´, residents of Adelaide argue that there are actually more pubs than church spires in the city! This attitude highlights the laidback and casual feel of the place, and there are stacks of attractive restaurants and live music venues to check out.

Built on the banks of the Torrens River, it is a picturesque city with lots of leafy, green spaces to explore. Situated in the middle of the wine regions in South Australia, make sure to try a couple of local wines before you leave.

With numerous museums and galleries, and the Belair National Park nearby, there´s always something to do in Adelaide. One of the best times of year to visit is in ´Mad March,´ when plenty of festivals and events are held concurrently.

Surrounded by rainforest, the city of Cairns is geared to one thing and one thing only – tourists. Consequently, upon your arrival, you will find hordes of tourists in a friendly city with a laidback vibe and not much in the way of sights.

Cairns is blessed, however, when it comes to incredible natural wonders – the spectacular Great Barrier Reef is the main reason people visit the city. This stupendous natural attraction is easily visited by boat, and there are also a couple of islands that you can stop off at. Many people use it as a gateway to the region and Daintree National Park and the Queensland Outback aren´t too far away.

2. Melbourne

The second largest city in the country is a stylish, cosmopolitan place to visit, with a lot to see and do. One of the best cities to live in the world, Melbourne has a European appearance, belying the fact that it is home to citizens of countless countries from around the world – this is what gives it its unique, multicultural feel.

Often seen as the cultural capital of the country, it has numerous art galleries, a vibrant music scene, and some fantastic cuisine from around the globe. Although it can´t compare with Sydney in terms of stunning sights, Melbourne wins hands-down when it comes to its authentic, diverse and lively neighborhoods dotting the area. Take the time to explore its streets and you´ll soon find yourself falling in love with this great city.

The crown jewel of what Australia has to offer, Sydney´s iconic look makes it the prime destination to visit when heading Down Under. The Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge are the undoubted postcard image of the city, although sweeping Bondi beach and the picture-perfect harbor front are equally dazzling to behold.

See also: Where to Stay in Sydney

A lively city, Sydney has a vibrant cultural and arts scene, which makes it great to live in as well as visit. With over two hundred years of history, there are some lovely historic sites to visit, while just outside Sydney lie some gorgeous national parks. Loud, in your face, and proud of it, Sydney is a fun, exciting city to visit that doesn´t take itself all too seriously.

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September 25, 2018 at 6:38 am

You should add Airlie Beach, Whitsundays 🙂 great for going out to Whitehaven beach, diving Great Barrier Reef, sailing etc. best hotel Coral sea resort

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8 of the best places to visit in Australia

Dec 3, 2023 • 8 min read

Narrow down the places you want to go with this guide to Australia © Nigel Killeen / Getty Images

Being tasked with choosing the best places to visit in Australia  is no easy assignment.

There is no shortage of spectacular places that could make the potential shortlist, from culturally diverse cities with rich Aboriginal history dating back tens of thousands of years, to the Great Barrier Reef and the raw outback landscapes in between.

Unless you’ve got months – or even years – to spare, the country’s immense scale and the sheer diversity of experiences on offer means it’s impossible to do it all in one trip. That’s why we’ve rounded up just eight of Australia’s best places to go to help you make your own shortlist – and maybe even give you reasons to visit more than once.

1. The Red Centre, Northern Territory

Australia’s most iconic outback experience

Nothing will take your breath away like a trip to the red heart of Australia in the Northern Territory . Here you can watch the sunset over Uluru – arguably the world’s most famous monolith, and spiritually significant site to the Anangu people – or be inspired by the sheer size of the 36 red domes at nearby Kata Tjuta, within the same national park. The desert’s natural beauty is only further enhanced by  immersive art installations , like the new Wintjiri Wiru experience at Uluru (which tells part of an Anangu sacred story using more than 1100 drones), Bruce Munro’s Field of Light and the Light-Towers at King’s Canyon. 

While there are plenty of adventure activities, like scenic flights and camel riding, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the world’s oldest continuously living culture. Walking tours and art lessons led by First Nations guides can be found near Uluru and Watarrka National Park.

Planning tip: Accommodation in the Red Centre, including campsites, is limited during the peak visitor season of June to September. Book ahead for tours and to secure accommodation.

2. Northern Rivers region, New South Wales

Best for exploring back roads

Bohemian Byron Bay – which has become a favorite destination for celebrities and backpackers alike – is probably the best known destination in northern New South Wales. But it’s just a small part of the Northern Rivers region. Head inland towards the hinterlands and you’ll find quaint villages and laid-back towns equally worth exploring. You can swim in Killen Falls, wander through the charming community of Newrybar, or sample the goods at the surrounding macadamia plantations and from farmgate stalls.

One experience not to miss is the Tweed section of Northern Rivers Rail Trail , which opened in 2023. The 24km (15-mile) abandoned railway corridor connects the region’s historic villages, best explored by bike.

Planning tip: Visit Mullumbimby Farmers Market on a Friday morning. Held at the showgrounds, you’ll be supporting micro-farmers and rubbing shoulders with locals.

3. Sydney, New South Wales

Australia’s best city for outdoor activities

Sydney  is rightfully considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities, where the natural splendor of  cityside beaches collides with incredible urban architecture, including the Opera House . It owes much of its good looks to its massive natural harbor, which is surrounded by a blend of skyscrapers, national parks and multimillion dollar homes.

During the summer, you can cool off at one of the eastern beaches (such as perennial favorite, Bondi ) or in one of the harbor’s 20 sheltered swimming spots. Try Marrinawi Cove, a new terraced sandstone swimming spot. Since opening in 2023 at  Barangaroo , it’s been widely embraced by nearby office workers on their lunch breaks.

In the winter, don’t miss seeing the harbor lit up for Vivid Festival . The foreshore is transformed into a canvas for light installations and projections. The cooler daytime temperatures also make this the perfect time of year to take on the Sydney Loop walk, which covers 26km (16 miles) of Harbour foreshore.

Planning tip: Don’t miss a journey to  Manly  from Circular Quay on the ferry . It's an incredibly budget-friendly way to explore the harbor, taking in Parliament House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. 

4. K'gari, Queensland 

Best for off-grid adventuring 

With a return to its traditional name in 2023, K’gari – the world’s largest sand island – has seen a surge of visitors keen to connect with Indigenous Butchulla culture. Formerly known as Fraser Island, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is rich in history and culture, but it’s also one of Australia’s best 4WD adventures.

Abounding in natural attractions, this is where you can swim in the crystal clear waters of Boorangoora/Lake McKenzie, spot dingos playing on the beach, or relax in a natural ocean spa at the Champagne Pools. Visitors can camp, stay in one of the island’s resorts or even walk nearly the full length of the island on the 90km (56 mile) K’gari Great Walk . Whatever option you choose, you’ll soon understand why “K’gari” translates to “paradise.”

Planning tip: Always carry a list of tide times, as access to some of K’gari’s most popular spots is tide dependent. The sand on the island is deep and soft, so if you’re not familiar with driving a 4WD, it may be best to book a tour with a local operator.

5. Melbourne

Best Australian city for nightlife

Melbourne is a 24-hour city, and come nightfall, the party gets started. Hit the laneway bars for drinks and bites, and don’t miss a live show: iconic St Kilda  music venue the Espy offers three stages for live acts. Meanwhile over in Collingwood, the Tote is so beloved that locals crowdfunded to keep it open.

Melbourne is also famous for its comedy clubs. Check out Spleen Bar  or  Basement Comedy Club , or time your visit to coincide with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival , held every autumn (March to April).

When the gigs are done, settle in for a drink at one of Melbourne’s signature late-night bars like Nick & Nora's and Cherry Bar , or if you’re feeling hungry, fill up at Stalactites .

Planning tip: Melbourne has a specific set of Night Network trains, trams and buses , which operate on Friday and Saturday nights to make sure you can get from bar to bar safely and back home again with ease.

6. Margaret River, Western Australia

Best for wineries and adventure

From New South Wales to South Australia , Australia is spoiled for wine regions. What sets Western Australia’s  Margaret River apart is that its food and wine offerings are complemented by incredible natural attractions. Located just south of Perth , this corner of Australia is considered one the world’s biodiversity hot spots. It has a high concentration of endemic species, including numbats (a marsupial with behavior similar to a meerkat), Western ringtail possums and around 8000 species of vascular plants, 80% of which are found nowhere else on earth. 

The wine is just as notable, with roughly 95 wineries producing award-winning sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, semillon and chardonnay. And when you need to work off all the food and drink, you can paddle out in the legendary southwesterly swell at some of state’s best surf beaches, go deep underground on a tour of the region’s limestone cave systems, or walk a portion of the 123km (76-mile) Cape to Cape track along the coast.

Planning tip: Learn more about the traditional owners of the land, the Wadandi (Saltwater) people at Koomal Dreaming , which offers guided walks and food experiences.

7. Kangaroo Island

The best place for an Australian wildlife safari

Just across the water from Adelaide is Kangaroo Island (KI), a haven for wildlife, including its namesake kangaroos alongside wallabies, koalas, echidnas and platypus. You can watch the island’s little penguins waddle to their dens at Penneshaw and see (and smell) the world’s third-largest sea lion colony lounge amongst the limestone cliffs at Seal Bay Conservation Area . If you’re lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of the endangered glossy black cockatoo with their red tails, or the exceptionally shy Kangaroo Island dunnart, a type of tiny marsupial endemic to the island. 

KI isn’t just a refuge for wild things; though. It’s also home to countless local producers , including distilleries, wineries and beekeepers, the latter of whom produce honey made from the only purebred Ligurian bee colony left in the world. Needless to say, there’s a reason we named it one of the best places to visit in 2024 .

Planning tip: Many of Kangaroo Island’s native species, including kangaroos, are more active at night. As such, it’s advisable to avoid driving at this time.

8. Tasmania

Best for igniting all the senses 

Home to a thriving festival scene, a world-class art gallery and an unbridled wilderness adored by nature lovers, Tasmania is one of Australia’s most diverse destinations, capable of stimulating all your senses.

Here, you can taste whisky at Lark Distillery , Australia’s first carbon-neutral distillery on Hobart ’s waterfront, eat freshly shucked oysters on Bruny Island , or dine at restaurants like Stillwater in Launceston , a UNESCO City of Gastronomy (one of only roughly 50 world cities to earn this accolade).

You can see weird and wonderful art at the controversial Mona (Museum of Old and New Art). You can hear international music at the popular Dark Mofo and Mona Foma winter and summer festival. You can feel the ground beneath your feet as you explore one of the state’s hiking trails. And you can smell the fresh sea air while on a boat tour around some of the world’s highest sea cliffs . 

Planning tip: Renting a car can be tricky during Tasmania’s busy summer season, so it pays to book ahead. Likewise, if you plan to take the car ferry from the mainland , the route often sells out. Bookings may be made up to 11 months in advance.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated December 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to visit

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

Read more on Australia travel :

• The best Australia holidays to do in your lifetime
• Why you should book a holiday to Ningaloo, Australia’s ‘other reef’
• The best deals for a luxury Australia holiday in 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The 25 most incredible places to see in Australia

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

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

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

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

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

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25 best places in Australia in 2024

1.  Uluru and Kata Tjuta, NT

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

2.  Blue Mountains, NSW

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

3.  Exmouth & Ningaloo Reef, WA

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

4.  Kangaroo Island, SA

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

5.  Kakadu National Park, NT

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

6.  The Whitsundays, QLD

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

7.  Lord Howe Island, NSW

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

8.  Eyre Peninsula, SA

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

9.  The Kimberley, WA

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

10.  Kings Canyon, NT

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

11.  Rottnest Island (Wadjemup), WA

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

12.  Bruny Island, TAS

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

13.  The Daintree Rainforest, QLD

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

14.  Byron Bay, NSW

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

15.  Melbourne City, VIC

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

16.  The Sapphire Coast, NSW

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

17.  Sydney City, NSW

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

18.  Tasmanian Mainland, TAS

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

19.  The Dorrigo Rainforest and Bellingen, NSW

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

20.  The Great Ocean Road, VIC

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

21.  The Snowy Mountains, NSW

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

22.  The Great Barrier Reef, QLD

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

23.  Broken Hill, NSW

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

24.  The Barossa Valley, SA

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

25.  The Southern Highlands, NSW

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

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12 Best Cities to Visit in Australia

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

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

What to see and do: 

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

2. Melbourne

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

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

3. Gold Coast

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

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

4. Brisbane

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

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

5. Adelaide

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

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

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

What to see and do:

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

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

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

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

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

9. Alice Springs

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

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

10. Byron Bay

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

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

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

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

12. Canberra

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

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

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

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Ultimate Australia Bucket List: 50+ BEST Places to Visit in Australia

Planning a trip to Australia and not sure where to start? I’ve got you covered with this epic guide containing 50+ of the best things to do and places to visit which are perfect for any Australian Travel Bucket List .  Some of these are places I have visited and things I have experienced myself and the rest are places, experiences and adventures that I have researched and added to my personal Australia bucket list.

Australia Travel Bucket List Ideas

Australian Capital Territory Bucket List

• Visit Canberra, the capital city of Australia. It is only a 3 hour drive from Sydney.

New South Wales Bucket List

• See the iconic Sydney Opera House. It is incredible from the outside but I recommend a tour of the inside or experiencing an opera performance Read :  2 Days in Sydney: The Perfect Itinerary .

• Climb to the top of the Sydney bridge .  This is a really popular activity so it is best to reserve in advance.
• Take a short ferry (approximately 30 minutes) from Circular Quay to Manly Beach for great views of the Sydney Harbour, Opera House and Bridge from the water.
• Spend a few hours at Bondi Beach , the most famous beach in Australia.
• Do the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk , one of the most beautiful and scenic walks in Sydney.
• Explore the spectacular Blue Mountains. You can easily visit on a day tour from Sydney .

• Relax in Byron Bay, Australia’s famous surf and arts town. Learn how to surf or go kayaking with dolphins .
• Visit Yamba, a small coastal town with beautiful beaches, which was voted #1 in Australian Traveller’s Best Towns in Australia list .
• Enjoy the laidback, hippy vibe of the alternative town of Nimbin .

Northern Territory Bucket List

• See Ayers Rock (Uluru) at sunset. Visitors are no longer be allowed to climb Uluru but you can walk around the base or do a helicopter tour .

• Visit Kings Canyon . You can follow the rim of the canyon along the 3-hour circuit walk and descend into the green oasis of the ‘Garden of Eden’. You can visit on a day tour from Ayers Rock Resort .

• Hike around the soaring rock domes of Kata Tjuta / The Olgas at sunset and watch them glow and change color with the surrounding desert landscape.
• See the Valley of the Winds, a 3 hour walk. Click here to book a tour.
• Visit Alice Springs (also known as “the Alice” or “Alice”). You can also enjoy the views of the outback on a balloon ride .
• Visit the West MacDonnell Ranges. Book a day tour from Alice Springs .
• Visit the historic town of Hermannsburg and its Aboriginal art collection.
• Visit Finke Gorge National Park and enjoy the beautiful rock formations of Palm Valley.
• Visit Darwin, the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory.
• Explore Litchfield National Park.  You can visit on a day tour from Darwin .
• Explore the natural wilderness of the Katherine Gorge on a 14-hour scenic tour from Darwin .
• Explore Kakadu National Park .

Queensland Bucket List

• Go scuba diving or snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef.

• Explore Daintree National Park, the planet’s oldest surviving rainforest.
• Take the Kuranda Scenic Railway through the rainforest to Kuranda.
• Fly over the rainforest in Skyrail Rainforest Cableway . Pick up your combo pass for the Skyrail and Scenic railway here. 
• Get close to koalas at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane, the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary.
• Visit Moreton Bay Marine Park, where bottlenose dolphins play and dugongs feed on sea grasses among the giant loggerhead turtles.
• Watch the spectacular sunrise on the beach with kangaroos and wallabies at Cape Hillsborough.
• Visit Yeppoon a beachside destination which offers fun activities such as sailing and kayaking, the mysterious Capricorn Caves and the beautiful Great Keppel Island white sand and exceptional snorkelling.
• Go sandboarding at Tangalooma, Moreton Island.
• Visit Fraser Island known for its 75-mile long beach which is one of the longest in the world.
• Explore Whitehaven Beach in The Whitsundays, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with blue green waters and white sand.

South Australia Bucket List

• Visit Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia, and the fifth-most populous city of Australia.  Read: 2 Days in Adelaide Itinerary & Travel Guide (According to a Local)
• Go wine tasting at the Barossa Valley Wine region.
• See wildlife, including koalas, wallabies and kangaroos, on Kangaroo Island.
• Explore the beautiful Eyre Peninsula. You can even swim with sea lions .
• Visit Coober Pedy , a small town that is mostly underground.

Tasmania Bucket List

• Enjoy the amazing views from the Wineglass Bay lookout at Freycinet National Park .
• Take a cruise on Wineglass Bay.
• Explore Hobart, the capital of Tasmania.
• Climb to the summit of Mount Wellington for panoramic views over Hobart.
• Explore the beauty of Mt. Field National Park .  Don’t miss the famous Russell Falls .
• Visit Tasmanian Devils and hand feed kangaroos at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary . You can visit on a half-day tour from Hobart .
• Explore Bruny Island.
• Enjoy Cataract Gorge Reserve just a few minutes from the center of Launceston.
• Enjoy the stunning views at the Bay of Fires .
• Explore Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park on a scenic walk. If time is short, you can visit on a day trip from Launceston . Read more about Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park here .
• See the Southern Lights. Join the Aurora Australis Tasmania Facebook group for real time sightings and alerts.

Victoria Bucket List

• Visit Melbourne.
• Take a photo in front of the colorful Brighton Bathing Boxes near Melbourne.
• Drive the Great Ocean Road (one of the best road trips of the world). If you prefer not to drive, you can book a day tour from Melbourne .

• Drive the Silo Art Trail , to see large-scale murals painted on the silos by world-renown artists in rural Victoria.
• Explore Grampians National Park . You visit on a day tour from Melbourne .
• Go wine tasting at Yarra Valley.  You can book a day tour from Melbourne .
• Enjoy panoramic views from Wilsons Promontory.  You can book a day tour from Melbourne .
• See the famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade, where you can watch a large colony of penguins waddle from the sea to their burrows at sunset. It gets busy so it is best to purchase tickets in advance .
• Visit Raymond Island, a small island off the coast from Paynesville, and one of the best places to see koalas in the wild.

Western Australia Bucket List

• Visit Perth, the capital of Western Australia.
• Explore Rottnest Island. You can book a day tour from Perth .
• Meet the endangered Australian sea lions of Jurien Bay Marine Park, a 2.5-hour drive from Perth. Click here to book a boat trip and snorkeling excursion.
• Enjoy the sunset and the starry sky in the Pinnacles Desert. You can book a Sunset & star-gazing tour .

• Meet the koalas and kangaroos of Yanchep National Park.
• Surf down the Lancelin Sand Dunes.
• Explore  Ningaloo Coral Reef .
• Visit Wave Rock, one of Western Australia’s most popular natural landmarks which resembles a giant ocean wave.
• Explore Karijini National Park, full of gorges, waterfalls and natural swimming holes.

• Visit Cable Beach, a white sand beach near Broome. You can do a camel tour on the beach .
• Explore The Kimberley one of the oldest and largest wilderness landscapes in the world and one of the most remote regions in Australia to see wildlife, majestic canyons, freshwater swimming holes and several outback stations.
• Explore  Cape Le Grand National Park – the highlight is Lucky Bay famous for its beautiful white sand beach and friendly kangaroos.
• See stingrays in Hamelin Bay, a beautiful white sandy beach with sparkling crystal clear waters.

So there you have it – the ultimate Australia bucket list .  If there is an experience or place you think I should include please let me know in the comments below!

Need more travel inspiration? Check out some of my other travel bucket lists below:

• World Travel Bucket List: 100 Things to Do Before You Die
• Southeast Asia Bucket List: 100+ Things to Do
• USA Travel Bucket List: 125+ Best Places to Visit in USA
• Europe Bucket List: 100+ Things to Do
• Africa Bucket List: 50 Things to Do and Places to Visit
• South America Bucket List: 50+ Things to Do and Places to Visit
• 10 Hotels That Should Be on Your Bucket List!

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savvyglobetrotter

You’ve given me some serious Australia travel fever here! I’ve yet to visit so this post is great for me. Ayers Rock and the kangaroo park look fantastic!

Australia is definitely on my bucketlist, I didn’t know that there are that many great places to visit! Thanks for all the tips, now I have to go there even more

I’m an Aussie and this is a pretty good list of things to do in Australia. Some of these I haven’t done myself, such as visiting Uluru and Rottnest Island. I should spend more time in ‘my own backyard’!

I think New South Wales Bucket List is the winner for me. I have always wanted to see the famous Sydney Opera House with my own eyes, and as a huge Avatar fan, I just fell in love with the Blue Mountains. 🙂 I have to travel there someday, for sure. Thanks so much for the inspiration!

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The Wanderbug

Travel blog.

8 Of The Best Cities in Australia to Visit

From sprawling metropolises to charming capitals, Australia has plenty of beautiful & exciting cities to tempt travellers. Most of the best cities in Australia to visit are on the east coast, but travellers will be rewarded for heading a little farther afield to less obvious spots like Hobart, Adelaide and Perth. The best cities to visit in Australia are Melbourne, Sydney, the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Hobart, Fremantle, Adelaide & Perth. I’ve lived in Australia for most of my life – I grew up in Brisbane , spent countless weekends and holidays on the Gold Coast and have lived in Melbourne for six years. After nearly thirty years of living in & travelling around Australia, here are my top picks for travellers, whether you’re coming for your first trip or are a local looking to see more of your own back year. Read on for my take on the best cities in Australia to visit!

Melbourne is the best city in Australia, if you ask me. I moved to Melbourne when I was 22, and have lived here for eight years (with a two-year break in New York City in between!). Considered Australia’s cultural capital, it’s the best city in Australia for enjoying the food, wine, culture, history, sport & shopping all rolled into one delightful package. Spend a long weekend exploring by neighbourhood & enjoying the city’s beautiful architecture, thriving hospitality scene and vibrant cultural life.

The Best Things to do in Melbourne

• Melbourne’s neighbourhoods are full of character – start with Carlton, Fitzroy & St Kilda
• Enjoy the best restaurants & bars in the country
• Experience a leading arts & cultural scene – see what’s on at The Arts Centre or the NGV

Explore more: Melbourne Travel Guide

Sydney is Australia’s largest city, and a must-visit destination on a first trip to Australia. It’s home to Aussie icons such as Bondi Beach, the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge. I love the beach lifestyle in Sydney, and how you can live in a big city but still be so close to the ocean. It does make me daydream about moving there sometimes! I’ve visited Sydney more times than I can count, but my favourite way to enjoy the city is to rent an Air BnB in Bondi and enjoy the laidback beach lifestyle between Bondi, Bronte and Coogee.

The Best Things to do in Sydney

• See world-famous sights like the Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge
• Visit Bondi Beach & hike the stunning Bondi to Bronte coastal walk
• Take the iconic Manly Ferry across Darling Harbour & spend a day at the beach

Explore more: Sydney Travel Guide

The Gold Coast has a reputation for being all glitz and glam, but in recent years it has leaned into its natural assets and attracted top talent from across the country who appreciate the fresh sea air, gorgeous white sand beaches and laidback lifestyle. I grew up very close to the Gold Coast, and have spent countless holidays there in my thirty years! The Gold Coast is changing all the time, and with every passing year I appreciate the beaches & the surrounding national parks even more. Spend three days on the Gold Coast for your first visit.

The best things to do on the Gold Coast

• Enjoy some of Australia’s most beautiful & iconic beaches – my favourite is Burleigh
• Go whale watching to see majestic humpback whales
• Relax in laidback beach neighbourhoods like Burleigh Heads & Mermaid Beach

Explore more: Gold Coast Travel Guide

Australia’s fastest growing city feels distinctly different to its larger counterparts, Sydney and Melbourne. Brisbane was once regarded as a bit of a backwater, but it’s been growing for decades – and these days, it’s getting cooler by the minute. Southbank is touristy but beautiful, especially for first-time visitors to the city, and developments like Howard Smith Wharves and James Street are the perfect spots to build a weekend around. Three days is the perfect amount of time for your first trip to Brisbane, followed by side trips to the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast.

The best things to do in Brisbane

• Take in the river city’s best views over dinner & drinks at Howard Smith Wharves
• Explore Brisbane’s lush Southbank Parklands
• Enjoy a warm, sunny subtropical climate & laidback pace

Read more: Brisbane Travel Guide

Charming Hobart is the capital of Australia’s pristine island state, Tasmania . This charming harbor town is now regarded as one of the coolest cities in Australia, thanks in no small part to the eccentric Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) . I love visiting Hobart as an easy weekend break from Melbourne – it’s just a 45 minute flight!

The best things to do in Hobart

• Taste the difference in local produce – pristine surrounds produce some of the best seafood, spirits & fruit and vegetables in the country
• Visit the most talked-about art gallery in the country, MONA
• Enjoy a charming, compact & walkable capital city

Explore more: Why Visit Hobart? Falling for the Capital of the Apple Isle

Fremantle is Western Australia ‘s second city, just a short train ride from Perth . The historic streets of Fremantle are so beautifully preserved that it feels a bit like you’ve stepped back in time, or are walking around a movie set! I’ve visited Fremantle twice, and found it completely magical on both visits. To visit Fremantle, you could stay in town, or as I did, stay in Perth and make a day trip by train (just 20 minutes).

The best things to do in Fremantle

• Explore one of the best preserved historic town centres in the world
• Craft beer & spirits: Visit Gage Roads Brew Co on the waterfront or Republic of Fremantle gin distillery in town
• It’s a perfect place to wander – a beautiful setting & dozens of small cafes, shops, art galleries and restaurants

Adelaide may be small, but it oozes personality. Nicknamed “Radelaide”, the capital of South Australia has made a name for itself in food, wine & the arts. Located just a stone’s throw from some of the premier wine regions in the country, the bars and restaurants along Leigh & Peel Streets give the hospitality scene in much bigger cities a run for their money. Every February, the city comes to life with the Adelaide Fringe Festival , the biggest arts festival in Australia.

The best things to do in Adelaide

• Experience Adelaide’s thriving restaurant & bar scene on Leigh Street & Peel Street
• Eat your way around the Adelaide Central Market
• Take a day trip to world famous wine regions, The Barossa Valley , Adelaide Hills & McLaren Vale

Perth may be the most remote capital city in the world, but don’t let that deter you! Like Brisbane, Perth has been busy growing up into a cool capital city and learning how to march to the beat of its own drum. I first visited Perth only to apply for my US working visa, and I was blown away by how beautiful the city is. I visited again in early 2023, and loved spending a couple of days enjoying Cottesloe Beach and exploring more of the city. Perth has some of the most beautiful city beaches in the country, including Cottesloe & City Beach.

The best things to do in Perth

• Visit one of the city’s 19 beautiful beaches, including the iconic Cottesloe Beach
• Take a day trip to Rottnest Island, home to the only quokkas in the world
• Explore King’s Park, an 1000-acre parkland in the heart of the city

Read more: 48 Hours in Perth

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Big Australia Bucket List

Absolutely EVERYTHING to see, do and experience in Australia

25 BEST Places To Visit in Australia (by an Aussie!)

As one of the largest countries in the world, Australia is a fascinating destination to explore. With its unique and varied landscape of tropical rainforests and arid desserts, cultural cities, and top attractions, it is easy to see why almost 10 million tourists visit Australia each year. (You know we wrote a bumper guide to the Top 100 Epic Australian Experiences for Your Aussie Bucket List , right?!) However, if you’re in the process of planning your first trip down under you may want narrow that list down a bit! So we present to you the Best 25 Places to Visit in Australia . It really is a fantastic place to start.

25 Best Places to Visit in Australia

These places are not in any particular order – there are so many incredible places to visit in Australia, each one is beautiful, unique and worthy of your visit – and I couldn’t possibly rank them in any possible way (cop out, I know!); But here goes!

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Australia’s Capital Cities
• 1.2.1 Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park
• 1.2.2 Freycinet National Park
• 1.2.3 Grampians National Park
• 1.2.4 Kakadu National Park
• 1.2.5 Blue Mountains National park
• 1.2.6 Karijini National Park
• 1.3.1 Fraser Island
• 1.3.2 Whitsunday Islands
• 1.3.3 Christmas island
• 1.3.4 Kangaroo Island
• 1.3.5 Rottnest Island
• 1.3.6 Phillip Island
• 1.4 Wine Regions
• 1.5.1 Great Ocean Road
• 1.5.2 The Kimberley
• 1.5.3 Cable Beach, Broome
• 1.5.4 Byron Bay
• 1.5.5 Darwin
• 1.5.6 Port Douglas
• 1.5.7 Great Barrier Reef
• 1.5.8 Daintree Rainforest
• 1.5.9 Ningaloo Reef
• 1.5.10 Esperance Bay
• 1.5.11 Gold Coast

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Australia’s Capital Cities

Spread out across this vast country, Australia boasts not one but eight capitals within each region, of which Canberra situated in the Australian Capital Territory is the national capital, a city known for its cultural treasures and vibrant annual festivals. However, it is the neighbouring city of Sydney that is the largest capital in the country home to the famous Syndey Opera House and The Harbour Bridge. Australia’s other must-see capital cities Melbourne , Hobart , Adelaide , Perth , Darwin and Brisbane are all wonderfully unique packed with exceptional dining experiences, historic attractions and non-stop shopping opportunities.

The National Parks

It is no surprise that Australia has over 500 national parks, each famous for their own unique characteristics, making them the ideal destinations for those wanting to escape the bright lights of the city.

Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park

Freycinet National Park

Grampians National Park

Kakadu National Park

Blue Mountains National park

Karijini National Park

Incredible Islands

It’s not just mainland Australia you need to explore during your trip, dotted all the way around the coastline are plenty of secluded islands.

Fraser Island

Whitsunday Islands

Christmas island

Find our more about Christmas Island including How to Plan a Trip to Christmas Island (+ Essential Travel Tips) & What The Island looks like during the annual red crab migration .

Kangaroo Island

Rottnest Island

Phillip Island

One of the most popular day trips from Melbourne , visitors will enjoy the penguin parade, whilst watching the spectacular sunsets this island is famed for.

Wine Regions

Australia’s Best-loved attractions

There are plenty to choose from but here is just a selection of Australia’s much loved iconic attractions.

Great Ocean Road

The Kimberley

Cable Beach, Broome

Port Douglas

Great Barrier Reef

Daintree Rainforest

Ningaloo Reef

Esperance Bay

With 25 amazing destinations to add to your Australian bucket list, we know your trip is going to be seriously amazing! Are any of the Australian tourist attractions mentioned in our guide your number one place to visit in Australia? Tell us and our readers why in the comments below.

And if you know of anyone planning their dream trip to Australia be sure to share our guide to the 25 BEST Places to Visit in Australia to give them a little travel inspiration. This Australia travel guide post can be shared on Facebook, Twitter, Flipboard and you can even pin the image below!

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:

• South Australia: South Australian Bucket List, Adelaide Travel Guide (Perfect for First Time Visitors)
• Australian Capital Territory: Top Things to do in the ACT
• New South Wales: Top Things to do in Sydney(inc. The Sydney Opera House), Best Places to visit in NSW
• Northern Territory: Best Things to do in Darwin
• Victoria: The Ultimate Victoria Bucketlist, Melbourne Travel Guide (Perfect for First Timers)
• General Australia Inspiration: 25 Best Places to Visit in Australia
• Queensland News & Events: Things to do on the Gold Coast

Hi There! Thanks for reading our guide to the 25 BEST Places to Visit 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 .

And a huge Thank You for reading the Big Australia Bucket List travel blog.

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We acknowledge the traditional owners of the country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures and to the elders past, present and emerging.

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The 30 Best Places to Visit in Australia (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: January 13, 2024

Trying to figure out the best places to visit in Australia can be a daunting task. Luckily for you, I’ve done the travel and exploring to make your decisions easy.

The country is huge, and lots of its amazing attractions are widely spread out across the continent. 

This article is part of our comprehensive travel guide to Australia, which you can read here.

Australia has six states and two territories, each offering a vast number of unique tourist attractions for travellers to enjoy. 

Table of Contents

1) Melbourne

2) karajini national park, 3) ningaloo reef, 4) the whitsunday islands, 6) the snowy mountains, 8) esperance, 9) the daintree rainforest, 10) tasmania, 11) the southern highlands, 12) jervis bay, 13) adelaide, 14) the great barrier reef, 16) kakadu national park, 19) the gold coast, 20) the blue mountains, 21) margaret river, 22) wilson’s promontory, 23) kangaroo island, 24) byron bay, 26) brisbane, 27) k’gari (fraser island), 28) the great ocean road, 30) the murray river region, top places to visit in australia.

So when planning a trip to explore the top Australian holiday destinations, you may want to pick one state or coast in which to start. Then either explore that state fully or hop on a few domestic flights to see some other parts of the country. 

Better yet, rent a car or campervan and go on a road trip!

Hopefully, this article on where to go in Australia will inspire some of you to explore one, two, or all eight of this country’s incredible regions. 

So here are the best places to visit in Australia. 

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Many travellers (and Australians) will say that  Melbourne  is their favourite city. 

As the capital of Victoria, Melbourne is one of the colder cities in Australia because it is located so far south. 

But what it lacks in warmth and sunshine it makes up for in art, culture, cuisine, architecture, and entertainment. 

Melbourne is known for its trendy cafes, art galleries, nightlife, and a wide variety of restaurants. 

You can spend your time sipping high-quality coffee, searching for colourful street art, and enjoying cocktails from a rooftop bar overlooking the city skyline. 

READ MORE: Check out the perfect 3 day Melbourne itinerary .

Located in Western Australia, Karajini National Park is perfect for adventurous travellers and really is one of the best places to travel in Australia.

This massive area of wilderness is packed to the brim with natural beauty and outdoor activities. 

Go swimming in  Fern Pool , photograph  Fortescue Falls , hike  Mount Bruce  or try and spot some indigenous wildlife. 

The park is most famous for its gorges and canyons, whose swirling rock patterns are incredibly photogenic. 

Some of the most popular gorges in Karajini National Park include  Hamersley Gorge, Joffre Gorge, Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge  and  Dales Gorge.  

Near the town of Exmouth in Western Australia is Ningaloo Reef, one of the best places to see whale sharks in the world. 

Every year these massive but gentle creatures gather around Ningaloo Reef to feed, and travellers can book a tour to go snorkelling and swimming alongside them. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Australia for lovers of marine life.

You can fly here, but we recommend travelling to the reef by going on a Perth to Exmouth road trip . 

For those who often daydream about a perfect island paradise, the Whitsundays is one of the most beautiful places in Australia.

Located on the east coast of Queensland and encompassing over 70 islands, the Whitsunday Islands have stunning beaches and rich marine life. 

Most of the islands are uninhabited, and most visitors choose to stay in  Airlie Beach , the main tourist town of the Whitsundays. 

Airlie Beach, along with Whitehaven Beach and the beaches of Hamilton Island, boasts some of the best views in the area. 

Sparkling white sand, palm trees, and turquoise waters make up most of the scenery, and the wildlife of the Great Barrier Reef fills the surrounding oceans. 

Popular activities in the Whitsundays include snorkelling or diving in the reef, sailing around the islands, or taking a helicopter ride over the famous heart-shaped reef and enjoying an aerial view. 

The capital of the Northern Territory , Darwin is a city filled with history. 

Darwin is home to a few great museums and galleries, including the fascinating  Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory  which showcases art and technology from the Pacific. 

It only takes a couple of days to explore the city of Darwin, and most travellers use the city as a gateway to visiting nearby places like  Litchfield National Park and  Kakadu National Park .

Australia is not famous for its skiing and snowboarding, but the Snowy Mountains are one of the best places to go for those who want to try out some winter sports. 

Stretching across southern New South Wales and northeastern Victoria, the Snowy Mountains are full of jagged peaks, local wildlife, and a few top-notch ski resorts. 

This is the highest mountain range in mainland Australia, and it is home to  the country’s tallest mountain , Mount Kosciuszko. 

During the summer months of December, January, and February, travellers come to Kosciuszko National Park for hiking and wildlife-spotting. 

During the winter months of June, July, and August, the mountains fill up with fresh snow and provide perfect slopes for skiing and snowboarding. 

The most popular ski resort is  Thredbo , located at the foot of Mount Kosciuszko.

If you’re wondering where to go in Australia, chances are you will begin your journey in  Sydney . 

Sydney is the biggest travel hub in the country, and home to many of the top tourist attractions in Australia.

The downtown area is full of skyscrapers and traffic, so the real magic lies near the water. 

Sydney Harbour  is iconic, and landmarks such as the  Sydney Opera House,  the  Botanic Gardens,  and the  Sydney Harbour Bridge  are not to be missed. 

Take the ferry from Circular Quay up to Manly and enjoy the gorgeous Sydney beaches , or take the bus out east to the popular  Bondi Beach,   Coogee , and  Bronte . 

READ MORE: Plan to have at least 1 awesome day in Sydney when exploring the best places to visit in Australia!

To find that picturesque combination of turquoise water and white sand while searching for the best places in Australia, head to Esperance.

This coastal town has plenty of stunning beaches, including  West Beach, Blue Haven Beach, Lovers Beach,  and  Fourth Beach . 

For more natural beauty, head to  Cape Le Grand National Park  to find fields of wildflowers, secluded beaches, and lots of native Australian wildlife. 

Other attractions in the area include  Lake Hillier , the famous pink lake, and the  Recherche Archipelago  where you can find adorable seals and sea lions living peacefully.

READ MORE: Be sure to add these great things to do in Esperance to your Australia itinerary!

If you find yourself venturing up to tropical north Queensland, try to make a stop in the Daintree Rainforest. 

Located in Daintree National Park, this is easily one of the best places to see in Australia. 

It is the oldest tropical rainforest in the world, and exploring this corner of the country truly feels like stepping back in time.

Between the giant palms, jungle vines, tropical fruits, messy mangroves, deserted beaches, massive trees, and interesting wildlife, the Daintree Rainforest can feel like another planet. 

The island off the southeast coast of Australia, known as Tasmania (check out all the epic things to do in this article ) , is arguably one of the most beautiful and wild places to visit in Australia. 

Tasmania is most well known for its clean, fresh air, its flavorful local produce, its abundance of national parks and nature reserves, and its overall gorgeous natural beauty. 

The  Bay of Fires, Cradle Mountain  and the granite peaks of  Freycinet National Park  are among the most popular natural sights among travellers. 

There are plenty of hiking opportunities in Tasmania for fitness enthusiasts, including the challenging and scenic  6 Day Overland Track . 

The capital city of  Hobart  is also a lovely place to visit. It is full of world-class restaurants using local produce and dairy products, as well as plenty of museums that showcase the rich history and artistic talent of the island.

READ MORE: Use our 2-week Tasmania itinerary to plan your visit!

Just a few hours southwest from Sydney lies the Southern Highlands, a luscious area of rural New South Wales. 

The Southern Highlands are full of rolling green hills, dense forests, hiking trails, and majestic waterfalls. 

After exploring in the wilderness, you can stop by one of the many adorable local towns like  Bowral  or  Robertson  to grab a classic Australian pie or browse through an antique shop. 

READ MORE: Check out our epic Australia itinerary blog post for information on how to make the most of a couple of weeks in the country.

If you head about 140 km south of Sydney you’ll find Jervis Bay, a small but stunning corner of NSW. 

The bay is home to a few small villages, and lush forests weave their way in between the civilisation. 

There are some great bushwalks and hikes in Booderee National Park in Jervis Bay, though the area’s highlight is definitely the beaches. 

For the best views, hike along the  White Sands Coastal Track . This easy walking trail through the bush brings you to several beaches with velvety sand and refreshing, calm clear waters for swimming. 

Along this trail, you’ll find  Hyams Beach , which some claim has the whitest sand in the world.

READ MORE: Check out our list of the best things to do in Jervis Bay !

As the capital city of South Australia, Adelaide is a great place to visit for culture and cuisine. 

Though not as huge as Sydney or Melbourne, Adelaide has plenty of museums, art galleries, festivals, shops, restaurants, and cafes to entertain any traveller. 

Popular places to visit include the  Adelaide Botanic Gardens , the  Adelaide Central Market,  and  Cleland Conservation Park  for walking trails and waterfalls.

The city’s biggest event is the  Adelaide Festival , which occurs every year in March and bursts with art and culture. 

Adelaide is also home to many of the country’s best vineyards and wineries in nearby Barossa Valley, so doing a wine-tasting and vineyard tour is one of the area’s best attractions. 

READ MORE: Check out our Adelaide city guide for great things to do!

The Great Barrier Reef is by far the top of the bucket list of places to visit in Australia for most travellers.

It is the largest coral reef system on the planet and is home to hundreds of islands and diverse marine life. 

Located off the coast of Queensland in the Coral Sea, the Great Barrier Reef is easily accessed from places like  Cairns, Airlie Beach, Port Douglas, or Cape Tribulation . 

Snorkelling or scuba diving is the best way to get up close to the reef and observe marine life with your own eyes. 

The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is between June and October when the rainfall decreases and water visibility increases. 

This is winter-time in Australia, so up in Queensland, the temperatures drop to a comfortable level as well.

As far as Australia destinations go, Noosa is a dream. 

This little slice of paradise is located on the coast of Queensland and is full of pristine beaches, national parks, and classy, expensive shops and restaurants. 

Noosa Heads National Park  is where all the best scenery is, including hiking trails, peaceful picnic grounds, and amazing beaches like  Tea Tree Bay . 

Longboarders also flock to Noosa for the right-hand point breaks that create perfect, rippling waves. This is a great place to learn how to surf!

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Noosa and add these great activities to your itinerary!

As the country’s largest national park, Kakadu is an incredible place to include for best holiday destinations in Australia.

Nature lovers will never tire of exploring all that Kakadu National Park has to offer.

From crocodile-spotting in  Yellow Water  to swimming in  Jim Jim Falls , to witnessing ancient Aboriginal rock paintings in  Ubirr , to hiking and camping in the bush, there are plenty of amazing things to do here. 

Located in the Northern Territory, Kakadu National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Set on the bright blue waters of the Indian Ocean, Broome is a small resort town in the Kimberley Region of Western Australia. 

For ‘grey nomads’, this is one of the best places to holiday in Australia.

Fun activities to do in Broome include visiting a local pearling farm, bird-watching near the  Broome Bird Observatory , and searching for dinosaur tracks at  Gantheaume Point . 

Cable Beach  is the most famous beach in Broome. At 22 km long, Cable Beach is covered in soft white sand, and perfect for watching the sunset or riding camels. 

Just be sure to avoid swimming in the ocean during the rainy season, from November to May, because dangerous jellyfish are common during these months.

READ MORE: Add these great things to do when you visit Broome!

Also known as Ayer’s Rock, Uluru is one of the most interesting and unique places to visit in Australia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This huge red rock formation in the middle of the desert is made of sandstone and is sacred to indigenous Australians. 

The closest town is  Alice Springs , which is a 7-hour drive away, so Uluru is quite a journey to get to. 

But if you are road-tripping through the Outback or travelling cross-country through the Northern Territory, you should definitely try to stop by Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park for a night and watch the sunrise or sunset over the sacred rock. 

Located on the south coast of Queensland, the Gold Coast is a popular city to include in an Australia list of best places to visit. 

It is rare to find so many skyscrapers and so many beautiful golden sand beaches right next to each other, so travellers can enjoy the vibrant city life and the relaxing beach life at the same time. 

The Gold Coast has a few fun theme parks, and it is just a short train ride away from other charming beach towns like  Burleigh Heads  and  Surfer’s Paradise . 

The city is also a great gateway for visiting  Lamington National Park , a vast area of mountains, valleys, and forests.

READ MORE: Check out all the great activities to do in The Gold Coast!

If you want to experience real wilderness, this is one of the easiest and best places to visit in Australia. 

The Blue Mountains   (don’t miss our epic guide on what to do in that link) are just a one-hour train ride away from Sydney, making them a super convenient location for travellers arriving in the city. 

Full of great, spacious valleys, rugged cliffs, and towering waterfalls, the Blue Mountains are majestic and feel truly wild sometimes. 

There are a few quaint towns set amidst the forest, like  Katoomba  and  Blackheath , that have all the Australian attractions for tourists you could ever need.

This small town in Western Australia is most famous for its wineries. 

Margaret River and its surrounding areas produce some of Australia’s best wine, and there are plenty of vineyard tours and wine tasting opportunities.

Other things to do in Margaret River include whale watching during the winter months, hiking along the coast, exploring the limestone cliffs and caves of  Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park , or surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the ocean.

While travelling through Victoria, head to Wilson’s Promontory to enjoy some quality time with nature. 

This small peninsula on the southeast corner of Australia is full of lovely beaches and hiking trails through the bush. 

Tidal River Campground  is the main hub of the area, and from here you have easy access to some of the best walks, viewpoints, and beaches of Wilson’s Promontory. 

Hike from  Picnic Bay to Whisky Bay , walk the sands of  Squeaky Beach , and enjoy the incredible view from the peak of  Mount Oberon .

Kangaroo Island is full of striking natural beauty and plenty of interesting wildlife, making it one of the best places to go in Australia.

Located off the coast of South Australia, Kangaroo Island is an amazing day trip from Adelaide or elsewhere in the state. 

Here, you can find kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and other classic Australian animals as well as native birds, sea lions, seals, and even penguins. 

Flinders Chase National Park  in the west of the island boasts unique and rugged rock formations, including the famous  Admirals Arch . 

READ MORE: Here are more great things to do on Kangaroo Island !

For many backpackers, Byron Bay sits at the top of the bucket list for an Australia trip. 

Full of hostels, cafes, bars, art galleries, thrift shops, and more, the town of Byron Bay has a little something for everyone. 

The natural beauty of Byron Bay still manages to outshine the touristy atmosphere, making the area peaceful and beautiful. 

Hike through the bush up to the  Cape Byron Lighthouse , surf with the locals at  The Pass , or swim in the waves at  Wategos Beach . 

Another one of the best places to visit in Australia is Perth, the capital of Western Australia. 

Because it is the biggest city in the state, many travellers fly into Perth before heading out to other attractions like Esperance, Broome, or Margaret River. 

But it is worth spending some time in the city to soak in the culture. 

Perth’s best attractions include the  Kings Park and Botanic Gardens,  the  Fremantle Prison, Coogee Beach,  and the  Swan Valley wineries . Don’t miss hanging out at the best beaches either.

You can also head to the top of the massive  Bell Tower  for a panoramic view of the city, or take a day trip to Rottnest Island to spot some quokkas. 

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Perth with our city guide !

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, makes a wonderful addition to a trip around Australia. 

Full of interesting museums, cool landmarks and monuments, spacious parks and gardens, and plenty of great food, Brisbane is sure to entertain any traveller who stops by. 

Highlights of Brisbane  include strolling along the  South Bank , which fills up with street markets and twinkling lights at night and heading up to  Mount Coot-tha , which provides an excellent panoramic view over the city.

READ MORE: Add these great day trips from Brisbane to your itinerary!

Located off the coast of Queensland, K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island ) is a great destination for camping, exploring nature, and swimming in some extremely beautiful spots. 

Lake Mckenzie  is one of the most scenic spots on K’gari (Fraser Island), as is the  Indian Head Viewpoint  and the striped cliffs of the  Cathedrals .

The easiest and most convenient way to visit K’gari (Fraser Island) is by doing a day trip from Hervey Bay or Brisbane, or you can bring your own camping gear and stay the night on the world’s largest sand island.

For anyone who wants to see breathtaking coastal scenery, and maybe catch a glimpse of a koala in its natural habitat, head to the Great Ocean Road. 

This 243-km strip of coastline in southern Victoria is packed with gorgeous beaches, charming towns, and dense forests, making it firmly on the list of best places to visit in Australia.

Some of the most famous landmarks on the road include the  Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge,  and the  Bay of Islands , all of which include intriguing jagged rock formations. Port Campbell National Park is another highlight of the route.

You can see the Great Ocean Road on a tour from Melbourne , or you can rent your own car, pack camping gear, and camp at one of the many campgrounds along the route. 

READ MORE: Explore the area with this epic Great Ocean Road drive itinerary !

As the gateway to northern Queensland, Cairns is full of backpackers and fun things to do. 

Many people just stop in Cairns for a night or two on their way to see the  Great Barrier Reef  or the  Daintree Rainforest , but it is worth spending a little time in the city to soak everything in. 

Visit  Rusty’s Fruit Market  for some fresh and cheap tropical fruits, party at one of the many backpacker hostels at night, or sunbathe at the big man-made beach known as the  Lagoon . 

During the summer months, you can’t swim in the ocean in tropical north Queensland because there may be crocodiles and jellyfish!

READ MORE: Check out these awesome things to do in Cairns !

Australia’s longest river stretches for 2508km through New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, and going on a road trip along it takes you to some of the country’s most unique cultural towns.

The Murray River twists through mountains and valleys, sprawling farmland and forests, and is home to a whole variety of businesses and activities.

If you love wine, you’ll be heaven as the vineyards are some of the best in Australia. There’s also a lot of outdoor adventures to enjoy, like paddleboarding and kayaking.

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Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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thanks for all the information. How do you decide which Airport to fly into. I would love to plan a trip. Karijini National Park, kangaroo Island, Southern Higlands, Daintree Rainforst and The Great Ocean Rd are some of the places that interest me. I know I will not be able to see and do all of them. But trying to decide where I would fly into from the USA

Australia offers a plethora of breathtaking destinations, from the vibrant cityscapes of Sydney and Melbourne to stunning natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, and the Whitsunday Islands. The diverse landscapes, rich culture, and friendly people make it a bucket list destination for any traveler.

Australia is a beautiful country with so many places to visit! I would love to visit some of these places on my next trip!

This is really interesting, you are such a great blogger. I enjoyed your blog.

Thank you so much. We appreciate it. 🙂

Thank you so much. We appreciate it. Glad you enjoyed our blog. 🙂

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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. 

• The Best of Kangaroo Island
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• See our Full Australia Travel Guide for Travel Tips and Advice

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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 🙂

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Touring the best cities in Australia

If you want to find out which are the best cities in Australia to visit on holiday, don’t ask an Aussie. It’s not that they won’t know. It’s that they all know that their own city is the best, so you won’t get many unbiased opinions. The answer also depends on what time of year you’re visiting, what type of holiday you’re after in this diverse country and a load of other factors. So, let’s take an objective outsider’s look at holidaying in this beautiful country.

Australia is a country of contradictions. There are sun-soaked cities with their beaches and resorts, like the Gold Coast, while some cities are major international capitals of culture and tourism. Others are urban outposts in an otherwise inhospitable arid desert. And then there are the lesser-known, smaller cities, where you’ll often find the most authentic Aussie experiences of all. When you’re looking for holidays in Australia , you can’t really go wrong with any city you choose. For more info on our top cities, you can also read our accompanying Australia travel guide .

Find flights to Australia

Let’s start with the most well-known city in Australia, Sydney . It’s large and cosmopolitan, containing some of the country’s most famous tourist attractions. It also has a relatively comfortable climate all year round, although it may be a little humid for some in the summer months, from December to February.

Sydney’s Iconic Architecture

While many European cities are known for their wonderful historical architecture, Sydney’s architectural attractions are far more modern. You probably know about the Sydney Opera House, with its characteristic ship sail silhouette, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, but it would be remiss not to mention them. They certainly help to make Sydney one of the best cities to visit in Australia.

World-Famous Beaches

Sydney’s beaches are some of its most alluring features. The famous Bondi Beach is the epitome of an Australian beach, with its warm water, long stretches of sand and plenty of amenities. Coogee Beach is very popular too, as is Tamarama Beach. Sydney is also a world surfing capital, so if that’s what you’re after, hit Manly Beach or Freshwater Beach.

Art, Culture and Leisure

Sydney has an arty side as well, which you’ll find in the likes of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia and the Art Gallery of New South Wales. To encounter the historical side of the city, take a walk along the cobbled streets of the harbour quarter. This is also where you’ll find some of Sydney’s oldest pubs, where these days you can sample Australian craft beer. Or if all you feel like is a leisurely day out, you can visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, purportedly the oldest public one in the world.

Although it generally plays second fiddle to Sydney in Australia’s tourism stakes, Melbourne is undoubtedly one of the coolest cities in the country. From music to sport, art to food, this is a pleasantly progressive city to visit on your Australian holiday.

Australia’s music capital

Melbourne has been the musical centre of Australia since the 1960s, so it has a very well-established and flourishing live gig scene that gives it a claim to be one of the best cities in Australia. Add to this a slew of nightclubs and hipster bars and you have all the makings of an exciting holiday. Brunswick Street is one of the epicentres, and you absolutely can’t pass up the chance to watch a gig on AC/DC Lane. Yes, that is the real name of the street.

Iconic Sports Events and Venues

Ask any cricket fan the world over what Australia’s standout landmark is and you’ll usually get the same answer: the MCG. The Melbourne Cricket Ground is among the best places in the world to watch the game, with a heritage almost on par with Lord’s. It’s the spiritual home of Aussie cricket, so don’t miss a chance to catch a match there. Melbourne also plays host to a number of premier annual sporting events, such as the Australian F1 Grand Prix and the Australian Open Tennis Championships.

Tour the City and its Street Art

Take a walk to admire Melbourne’s street art, which you’ll find in three main areas of the city. Hosier Lane is celebrated for it, as are Union Lane and Block Arcade. Another great way of going sightseeing in Melbourne is to take the City Circle Tram. It’s free of charge and will tour around the city’s landmarks, like Federation Square, Parliament House and Docklands.

Now let’s have a change of scene and pace by visiting Adelaide . It’s not a minor city by any means, but it has a post-colonial gentility about it that lends a particular charm. Even though it’s the capital of Southern Australia, it still feels like one big country town. Here you’ll start to get more of a taste of domestic Aussie life, although less so than you’ll find in the smaller cities.

A City for Foodies

What makes Adelaide one of the best cities in Australia is its foodie scene. It has a tradition of selling all manner of local produce from the surrounding farms at its vast Central Market, which dates back to 1969. You simply can’t miss out on this if you’re a foodie. You’ll find a smorgasbord of smoked meats, freshly caught fish, artisanal cheeses and the freshest fruit and veg you could wish for.

Green Hills, Vineyards and Kangaroos

Adelaide’s semi-rural setting means that there’s no shortage of walking to be had on its hillsides. It’s also on the coast and has some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches. The city is surrounded by a wine-producing region, and day trips for wine tasting are highly recommended. Another very worthwhile experience is to take the roughly 45 minute ferry trip across to Kangaroo Island, where these uniquely Australian animals thrive in their natural habitat.

Brisbane is the capital of the state of Queensland and is one of best cities in Australia, shown by its “Brisvegas” nickname. It’s full of shiny new entertainment venues, creative spaces, musical shows and glitzy hotels. At the same time, it has a strong pull for nature lovers, with many of its most popular tourist attractions centred around the Brisbane River flowing through the city.

Lazy Days Along the Brisbane River

A great way to spend the day in Brisbane is to take a trip on a paddle steamer along the Brisbane River. You can stop off in South Bank, filled with verdant parks where you can walk or picnic. Travel just a bit further and you can visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. There’s nothing more Australian than getting up close to these furry creatures.

Waterway Adventures

If you want something a bit more thrilling and adventurous, Brisbane River will once again oblige. It has a good few natural riverside attractions offering more challenging activities. Go to the Kangaroo Point cliffs if you want to try your hand at abseiling, or take the hike up Story Bridge. There’s even a rollerblading course on a set of floating walkways.

Perth is perhaps the most remote city in Australia, located on the extreme south-western tip of the country, separated from the rest of the nation by the vast, mostly desert state of Western Australia. That said, it’s an oasis of beaches and parklands, with lots of entertainment and things to see and do, making it another of the best cities in Australia to visit.

Markets Alongside the Beach

Cottesloe Beach is the most popular in Perth, known especially for its pure white sand. Nearby you’ll find the Port of Fremantle, which is one of the most historic harbours in Western Australia. It’s known for its markets that sell all kinds of goods from an imposing Victorian-era warehouse. The Elizabeth Quay development is a major shopping and dining district nearby.

Cultural and Literal Gold

If you’re interested in the ancient cultures of the Australian Aboriginal peoples, go to the Art Gallery of Western Australia. This houses a truly impressive collection of Aboriginal art and artefacts and is one of the country’s treasures. You can also visit the Perth Mint, where you can literally work out the price of your weight in gold. It’s an unexpectedly fun experience.

Canberra is often overlooked as a tourist destination, given its proximity to more glamourous Sydney. It’s also the capital of Australia, so it has an undeserved reputation for being a bit administrative and boring. This couldn’t be further from the truth. If we dig a bit deeper, we’ll find that this is another of the best cities in Australia.

Architectural Landmarks

Canberra has some of Australia’s most important architectural landmarks. The most visually impressive is Parliament House, built in colonial style and ringed with palm trees. There’s also the Australian War Memorial, where you can pay your respects to WWI and WWII veterans. The “bridge to bridge” pathway that winds around Lake Burley Griffin will give you a good perspective on the city’s green centre.

Art and Historical Artefacts

Art lovers will really enjoy visiting Canberra, as it’s the home of the National Gallery of Australia. Here you can view over 160,000 artworks, covering centuries of local and international artists. When it comes to souvenirs, you’ll find lots of curios to buy at the Old Bus Depot Markets. And do pay a visit to the National Library, where you can view Captain Cook’s actual logbook from 1770.

Darwin has a very different climate to the other Australian cities, by dint of its location in the far north of the country. This is a subtropical area at the top fringe of the otherwise inhospitable Northern Territory – part of the famous Australian Outback. It’s one of the best cities in Australia for equal amounts of indoor and outdoor fun.

One-of-a-kind Natural Encounters

Take an intrepid spirit with you when visiting Darwin so that you can participate in some of the unique activities on offer here. Perhaps the most daunting is swimming with crocodiles at Crocosaurus Cove. You’ll be safe in a protected cage, so there’s no actual danger involved, but the adrenalin rush is real. This is an experience you’re not likely to forget.

A Distinctively Historic City

Darwin has the dubious distinction of having been the only Australian city to be physically affected by WWII, when it was bombed by the Japanese. This has given it a very special place in Australian history, which you can learn more about at the Darwin Military Museum. The highlight to view there is the Defence of Darwin Experience. There’s also the unique Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory for more historic treasures.

If you’ve come to revel in the country’s outdoor and aquatic lifestyle, Cairns is definitely one of the best cities in Australia to visit. It’s an absolute paradise that also offers excellent shopping, dining and nightlife.

Gateway to Australia’s Natural Wonders

Cairns is the closest city on the Australian mainland to the Great Barrier Reef, which makes it one of the most visited cities in the country. From here, you can take one of the numerous boat trips out to the reef. It’s also where you’ll find the famous Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation and the Atherton Tablelands. It’s an absolute haven for scuba diving, fishing and parasailing, and you can also walk historic Aboriginal trails.

A Variety of Entertainment

Cairns is also known for its markets, pubs and entertainment hot spots. Head to The Reef Hotel Casino for some gambling action, or go to the Pier Boardwalk for great shopping and very good restaurants. The weekly Saturday Esplanade Market is really worth getting to as well. To take a break from all of this, the Cairns Botanic Gardens specialises in unusual blooms.

Newcastle is yet another jewel of a coastal city in New South Wales, just to the north of Sydney. It’s a smaller city, but really worth putting on your itinerary, on account of its great beaches and its many historic landmarks that chart the nation’s modern development.

Coastal Walks and Blissful Beaches

A good way to spend the day in Newcastle is to take a nice long coastal walk along Bathers Way. This will take you from Merewether Beach all the way up the shoreline to Nobbys Beach. Along the way, you’ll walk along most of the other popular beaches in the city. This includes the main Newcastle Beach, where you can stop for refreshments.

Historical Australian Sites

The Bathers Way walk is also a good way to explore Newcastle’s historical side. You shouldn’t miss a stop-off at Bogey Hole, an ocean bath built by some of the original convicts sent to Australia. There’s also Fort Scratchley, which dates back to the 1880s. It’s not only worth visiting for its history – this promontory is a prime whale-spotting site.

The capital of Tasmania, Hobart , makes the list of the best cities in Australia thanks to its excellent markets, internationally popular festivals and, in particular, its thriving modern art scene.

Progressive Artistic Expression

Hobart’s art milieu encourages dynamism and pushes the boundaries of expression. There’s ample evidence of this at the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). This is a good place to start an artistic tour of the city. Another notable institution is the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery.

Outdoor Markets and Festivals

Keep a weekend in Hobart reserved to sample its two most popular markets. There’s the Salamanca Market, at Constitution Dock on Saturdays, and the Farm Gate Market, on Bathurst Street on Sundays. There are festivals aplenty too. Highlights are the Cygnet Folk Festival in January, which has been going since 1982, the Royal Hobart Show in October and Taste of Tasmania over Christmas.

Best Cities in Australia, Special Mention: The Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is unmissable if you’re after the best in sun-soaked Australian glamour. A dispersed urban area rather than strictly a city, it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the entire country, among locals and internationally.

Australia’s Holiday Playground

The Gold Coast has it all. During the day you can lounge on the beaches that give it its name, and at night you can party at the clubs in the Surfers Paradise neighbourhood. It’s also known for its magical theme parks, so if you’re on holiday with your kids, take them to Warner Bros. Movie World or Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast. Or visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can feed kangaroos and koalas.

More Ways to Experience Australia

If you want a completely different kind of holiday Down Under, have a look at some ideas for backpacking in Australia and camping in Australia . If you’re visiting the country by yourself, we also have tips for solo travel in Australia .

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Australia, the vast land where pristine beaches kiss urban sprawl, and natural wonders are just a hop away from bustling cities.

Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of destinations to explore? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

• The Great Barrier Reef is an underwater paradise.
• Australia saw 9.3 million tourists in 2019 alone.
• Bill Bryson captures the essence of Australian travels with his quote.
• From cities to natural spectacles, Australia has it all!
• Deborah Green reveals her secret Aussie destinations.

The Allure Behind Australia’s Tourism Boom

Australia has consistently ranked among the top destinations for global travelers, witnessing a steady surge in tourist arrivals over the years.

This rise in popularity isn’t by mere chance. Boasting an array of diversified landscapes from pristine beaches to rugged outbacks and a rich tapestry of cultures, Australia seamlessly merges the thrill of adventure with the solace of nature.

Coupled with vibrant cities pulsating with life and heritage, it’s no wonder that this Southern Hemisphere gem has cemented its place on many travelers’ bucket lists.

As the world becomes increasingly connected, more and more individuals are venturing to explore the boundless wonders and spirited ethos that make Australia a traveler’s paradise.

Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef isn’t just “ another tourist spot. ” It’s an ethereal underwater kingdom that stretches over 2,300 kilometers.

Dive in, and you’ll soon understand why it’s one of Australia’s most iconic attractions. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a breathtaking array of marine life, from the brilliantly colored clownfish to the majestic sea turtles, each species playing a pivotal role in this vibrant ecosystem.

Beyond its biological wonders, the reef is a testament to the beauty of nature’s artistry. The coral formations, shaped by centuries of ecological interactions, form a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns, turning the seabed into a living canvas. Each dive or snorkeling session reveals new secrets: hidden lagoons, underwater caves, and the mesmerizing phenomenon of coral spawning, where the reef seems to come alive in a festival of colors.

Moreover, the Reef’s islands, such as the Whitsundays, offer pristine beaches and azure waters, providing a tranquil escape for those looking to bask in nature’s splendor above the water. The indigenous stories associated with the Reef, passed down through generations, add a layer of cultural and spiritual significance, making every visit not just a visual feast but a journey through ancient narratives.

In essence, the Great Barrier Reef is more than a destination; it’s an experience, a living entity that captures the heart and soul of all who venture into its waters. An emblem of Australia’s rich natural heritage, it stands as a reminder of the wonders our planet holds and our responsibility to protect and cherish them.

Understanding Australia’s Unique Charm

As the renowned travel author, Bill Bryson, once put it,

“Australia is an island, a big one, and its cities are isolated from each other by vast distances. But it’s these distances and differences that make it such an endlessly fascinating place to explore.”

Indeed, Australia’s geographical expanse results in a symphony of varied landscapes, cultures, and experiences, making every visit a unique escapade.

In the bustling metropolis of Sydney , you’re swept into a world where modern architecture kisses the clear blue skies, a stark but harmonious contrast to the serene Outback where the ancient, red soil tells tales of a time long past.

Melbourne, with its intricate lanes, art, and coffee culture, offers a different flavor. It’s a melting pot of creativity, echoing with the sounds of music, art, and life. In the tropical north, the rainforests and reef paint a picture of ecological wonder, where every leaf, coral, and creature play a pivotal role in the Earth’s narrative.

But it’s not just about the visual and sensory allure. The isolation cultivated a distinct Australian character – resilient, jovial, and profoundly connected to their land. This connection permeates through the indigenous communities, where ancient traditions, stories, and spirituality breathe life into the arid lands.

Every song, dance, and piece of art is not just a display of culture but a narration of the Dreamtime, the mystical time of creation, connecting every Australian to their ancestral lands.

Each city, town, and village in Australia is like a different world. A world with its own stories, characters, and landscapes. And perhaps, Bryson’s sentiment rings profoundly true because Australia isn’t just a journey across distances; it’s a journey across narratives.

Narratives that are as varied, deep, and expansive as the continent itself, offering not just a travel experience, but a deep, soul-stirring narrative that lingers long after the journey ends.

Every visit is an opportunity to uncover another layer of Australia’s multifaceted charm, an allure enriched by its isolation and diversity.

Insider Tips from Deborah Green

When it comes to the best places in Australia, every local has their secret stash of recommendations. Deborah Green , our experienced travel journalist, spilled the beans on her favorites:

• Broome, Western Australia: Think camel rides at sunset on the Cable Beach.
• Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia: Swim alongside whale sharks in this lesser-known reef.
• Lord Howe Island, New South Wales: A UNESCO World Heritage paradise, where time slows down.

Australia , with its unparalleled diversity and beauty, offers travelers not just a journey through miles but a journey through time. Its rich indigenous history, modern cosmopolitan cities, and breathtaking natural wonders form a mosaic that caters to every kind of traveler. From the sun-kissed beaches to its ancient rainforests, the essence of the continent lies in its raw, unfiltered charm.

Diversity is the hallmark of Australia. One moment you’re traversing the urban jungles of Sydney with its iconic opera house, and the next, you’re lost in the vastness of the Outback, witnessing the majestic Uluru at sunset. For those seeking adventure, the Great Barrier Reef offers an under-the-sea experience like no other, while the Whitsunday Islands promise an idyllic beach paradise.

However, beyond the landmarks, it’s the Australian spirit that captures the heart. Warm, welcoming, and with a penchant for a good laugh, the locals add an extra layer of richness to the Australian experience. Be it through their stories, their culture, or their vibrant festivals, they embody the essence of the “Land Down Under.”

In concluding, Australia isn’t just a destination; it’s an emotion. A sentiment that resonates with the soul, urging you to explore deeper, travel farther, and connect with its land and people.

With its blend of history, culture, nature, and innovation , it offers a holistic experience that leaves an indelible mark on the traveler’s heart. So if there’s one place where every journey tells a story and every landscape paints a picture, it’s undoubtedly Australia – a continent waiting to be explored.

Why is the Great Barrier Reef so popular among tourists?

Aside from its sheer size, the Great Barrier Reef offers a diverse ecosystem, making it a hub for snorkeling, diving, and witnessing marine life.

Is Australia expensive for tourists?

While Australia can be pricier than some destinations, budget options are available, and the experiences are worth every penny.

What’s the best time to visit Australia?

The best time largely depends on the region. For most parts, spring (September-November) and fall (March-May) offer pleasant weather.

Are there any underrated places Deborah recommends?

Definitely! Places like Kangaroo Valley, Mount Kosciuszko, and the Gippsland region often fly under the tourist radar but are pure gems.

How safe is Australia for solo travelers?

Australia is generally very safe for solo travelers, but as with any destination, common sense and precaution are advised.

• Tourism Australia, 2019 Visitor Statistics
• National Geographic, “Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef”
• “In a Sunburned Country” by Bill Bryson

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11 Most Beautiful Cities In Australia To Add To Your Bucket List

• Australia offers stunning cities with a range of attractions, from beaches to wildlife and cultural scenes. It's a perfect vacation destination.
• Lesser-known cities like Wollongong offer unique experiences with beautiful landscapes, forests, and ocean views.
• Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are internationally famous for their iconic landmarks, beaches, and friendly atmosphere.

Australia is one country that continues to fascinate travelers all over the world due to what it offers. This country has got everything a person wants in a vacation, from beaches to hiking trails, rocks, wildlife, and birds. It also has some of the most beautiful cities in the world . Whether one is looking for a place to relocate to or just enjoy a vacation in a different environment, here are the most beautiful cities in Australia that should be on your bucket list.

UPDATE: 2023/08/26 18:53 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Australia Continues To Have Stunning Cities To Visit!

This article has been refreshed with new information regarding the most beautiful places to visit in Australia, as well as expanded sections currently listed. Whether someone wants to drive up the coast, stop in Sydney, see the nation's capital in Canberra, or even venture into the Northern Territory: Australia is the place to be this fall and beyond!

• This is a coastal city in Australia, just beyond Sydney along the Grand Pacific Drive.
• The city is known for its port industry as well as its natural abundance.

One beautiful city in Australia is Wollongong, located along the coast outside of Sydney. Here is where trails encircle the forests and rocky cliffs of Mt. Keira in the Illawarra mountain range, giving tourists a once-in-a-lifetime view of the ocean and nearby towns/landscapes. Wollongong is one of the lesser-talked-about Australian destinations, but it's certainly worth considering for a vacation.

• Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and is known for its art scene.
• This is also where up to 250 days of sunshine come to the country yearly.

The elegant capital of Queensland is a place filled with unique attractions and a rich art and cultural scene. Up to 250 days of sunshine overwhelm this city, exposing all its natural and urban beauty. The numerous attractions of Brisbane also add to its splendor. This city is home to wildlife sanctuaries, the famous Australian Zoo, botanical gardens, and beautiful beaches where locals can always be found cooling amidst the endless sun.

• Darwin is the capital of Australia's Northern Territory.
• This is one of the closest major cities to Asia.

As the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, Darwin is very close to Asia, and due to this, much of its culture is influenced by Asia, from the food to the lifestyle. In Darwin, one will find rich wildlife, lots of attractions, delicious Asian-inspired food, and plenty of aboriginal people. Being surrounded by water also means this city is a great place to sail, fish, cruise, or just enjoy a dinner by the beach while watching a beautiful sunset.

• Cairns, Australia, is surrounded by towering cliffs and white sand beaches.
• Some of the best food in the area can be found here.

Cairns comes with a beautiful natural appeal and an urban atmosphere. The city is surrounded by towering cliffs and has plenty of white sand beaches with restaurants and hotels lined up on them. While all these combine to make the city adventurous and beautiful, what makes Cairns particularly amazing is the fact that it is the gateway to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef . This makes it a place of all things adventures, from snorkeling to diving, sailing, hiking, and kayaking.

One other thing that makes Cairns so beautiful is the greenery it is overwhelmed with. Trees surround every house in this city, and the surrounding rainforest also adds to that natural appeal. It’s so green here.

• Perth is known to be one of the best cities in Western Australia.
• There is a plethora of art galleries, museums, and luxury hotels here.

Perth is a great place to witness the stunning natural appeal of Western Australia . Here, one will find an abundance of white-sand beaches and green areas where one can relax and enjoy a picnic. The architecture of Perth is also stunning, and the city has art galleries, museums, luxury hotels, and plenty of restaurants and bars.

Adventures one will enjoy in Perth range from swimming to wildlife exploration, beach hopping, and wine tasting. Being Australia’s sunniest also means one will enjoy all the exciting adventures the city has to offer in a bright and warm environment all year round.

• This is the capital of Tasmania, boasting history and natural scenery.
• There are rivers, mountains, and plenty of plants and wildlife throughout the city.

The capital of Tasmania is a city full of history and natural beauty. The city is towered by Mount Wellington, and it has a scenic river that gives it charming scenery. While the scenic river and the towering mountain are appealing, it is the abundance of trees in every part of the city that makes it so beautiful. During autumn (March to May in Australia), the leaves of these trees change into beautiful orange and yellow colors, making the city even more picturesque.

Being the second-oldest city in the country, Hobart is a place to learn about the rich history of Australia, and there are plenty of museums in the city for this. One of them is the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, which is the oldest museum in the country and where one will find collections of the Royal Society of Tasmania - the oldest scientific society in Australia. Besides the historical part, Hobart also features impressive architecture, a vibrant market, botanical gardens, and many other attractions that will give visitors a memorable adventure.

• Adelaide is more natural than some of the other big cities in Australia.
• Some of the best food and wine in the entire country is found here.

Like many Australian cities, Adelaide comes with natural scenery that will stun visitors. It is also a coastal city which means there are plenty of white-sand beaches to explore. Some of the best food and wine in the country can be found here, and there are restaurants and bars on almost every corner of this city.

When it comes to things to do, Adelaide has plenty. With art galleries, vibrant markets, botanical gardens, museums, zoos, and plenty of white sand beaches all over the city, the opportunities for adventures are endless in Adelaide. The water bodies in the city are great for Kayaking and boating, and the Cobbler Creek Recreation Park is perfect for adventurers who want to enjoy some mountain hiking or hiking adventures.

• Canberra is the capital of Australia and is filled with historical attractions.
• Natural and human-made beauty fills the streets here.

Canberra - the federal capital of Australia, is a place overwhelmed with natural and architectural beauty. It’s perhaps one of the greenest cities in the world. Here, you’ll find not just trees but small forest areas in various parts of the city. A scenic waterbody also runs through the city, and a forest-carpeted mountain surrounds it as well. All these features are what make Canberra such a beauty to behold.

Besides making the city so beautiful, all those natural features also make it a haven for lots of adventures, from cruising to hiking, kayaking, hot air ballooning, and many more. In fact, just walking on the streets of this city is a memorable experience, and whether one visits in bloom or fall or winter or summer, this city stays beautiful all year round.

Related: Top 10 Restaurants In Canberra Foodies Must Visit

• Many mistake Sydney as the capital of Australia because of its popularity.
• This is considered one of the most famous cities in the world.

Sydney is so popular worldwide that many people mistake it for the capital of Australia. But despite not being the country’s capital, Sydney is arguably the most famous city in the country , and that in part is due to the country’s beauty which can be seen in its stunning beaches, its magnificent harbor, and its world-famous attractions.

Sydney is where the world-famous Sydney Opera House is located, and the city is also home to the popular Bondi Beach. The city is a haven for cruising, it has an amazing food scene, and the architecture is absolutely impressive.

Related: Melbourne Vs. Sydney: Deciding Which Australian City Is Best For You

• The Gold Coast in Australia has natural and urban beauty.
• There are miles of white sand beaches surrounding the city.

Gold Coast has something for every traveler, whether they seek relaxation, luxury, or adventures. Its incredible natural and architectural beauty makes all the activities even more exciting. Gold Coast is a paradisaic coastal city that features miles of white sand beaches, which are great for all-year surfing and relaxation. It has luxury hotels with great views , parks offering abundant wildlife and plenty of adventures, and dive spots that will satisfy every diver’s hunger.

Here, one will also find plenty of bars and restaurants offering local and international food, theme parks that are great for kids and adults, and plenty of entertainment centers. It’s fun galore here.

• Melbourne is one of the friendliest cities in the world.
• There are luxury hotels, restaurants, shops, parks, and plenty of attractions to see.

Melbourne was just named the friendliest city in the world by William Russell , and that just seems right on all levels. First, the city is incredibly beautiful; then, it has plenty of interesting attractions and friendly people who are always ready to welcome tourists. When it comes to views, Melbourne is absolutely picturesque as it features streets decorated with trees, and it also has a scenic water body that flows through it.

Melbourne is also the cultural capital of Australia, and all over the streets are various art galleries and museums where one can delve deeper into some interesting Australian history. Just taking a walk in the streets of this city is entertaining as one will get to see lots of interesting street art and also see the city’s impressive skyline and stunning architecture.

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50 Of The Best Places To Visit In Australia In 2024

By Jessica Best

17th Apr 2024

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From breathtaking islands and sugar white sand beaches to sun-baked landscapes and jaw-dropping natural wonders, here at Urban List, we think Australia is a land of unique and diverse beauty. 

If you're wondering where to travel in Australia in 2024, we've got hidden gems and bucket-list worthy locations you didn't even know existed. To get your travel itinerary started, we've chosen 61 incredible travel destinations you need to tick off. It’s time to get exploring. 

The Best Places To Visit In Queensland 

Moreton island.

Queensland is home to a slew of islands but Moreton is one of our absolute faves. The island is almost entirely declared National Park territory, which means it is largely untouched featuring pristine blue waters, lush rainforest, historical lighthouses and famed natural wonders such as Mount Tempest, the world's largest coastal sand dune structure.

K'gari /Fraser Island

As the world’s largest sand island, it’s not hard to understand why this Queensland beauty has made this list. The UNESCO World Heritage site stretches over 123 kilometres and is a stunning tangle of rainforests, eucalypt woodlands and mangroves, surrounded by long, flat beach highways so yes, four-wheel-driving is a must. 

Cape Tribulation

If you ever wanted to see what Queesnland looked like when dinosaurs roamed the earth, then make tracks to beautiful Cape Tribulation where the Daintree—one of the world’s oldest rainforests—meets the Great Barrier Reef. Want to make a road trip out of it? Work your way from the top of Cape Tribulation and all the way down to Townsville—it's here you'll find the stunning Magnetic Island.

Rainbow Beach

This little beach town on the Cooloola Coast, is the gateway to Fraser Island. But there’s so much more to Rainbow Beach than its island neighbour. Head to the infamous Carlo Sandblow—if you’ve seen a photo of a giant sand dune in Queensland, this is probably it—for an involuntary cardio workout then sink a cold one or three at the Rainbow Beach Hotel.

Nestled on the Sunshine Coast between Mudjimba and Noosa, Marcoola is the quiet beach town you didn’t know still existed in Queensland. Providing the perfect blend of (mostly) tourist-free beaches with a thriving organic foodie culture and accommodation that won’t cut into your retirement fund, Marcoola is a well-guarded local secret for a very good reason. 

You might also like the:

• Best Camping In Australia
• Best Road Trips In Australia
• Best Under-The-Radar Beach Towns

This dreamy little romantic beach side strip is hard not to fall in love with. From its palm tree lined streets to its huge choice of fabulous restaurants and bars, Palm Cove is tiny but mighty and a favourite of holiday-goers located just a short drive from Cairns. Fall asleep to the gentle crashing waves and wake up to the spectacular sunrises that Far North Queensland has to offer. We can tell you now, you’ll never want to leave.

Fitzroy Island

Just a quick boat ride out of Cairns sits the small but mighty Fitzroy Island with its unbelievable hidden beaches and coves that island dreams are made of. With an endless range of tours and activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, nature walks, marine biology classes and bush tucker nature walks just to name a few, you’ll be able to keep everyone entertained.

The Best Places To Visit In New South Wales

Nambucca heads.

One of the most scenic areas on NSW’s North Coast, Nambucca Heads is home to a vibrant artsy community, thriving local bushlands, and 23kms of breathtaking coastline. Its name is derived from the Aboriginal word meaning ‘entrance to waters’, and it’s the ultimate spot for surfing, fishing, kayaking and swimming - as well as catching sight of passing dolphins.

About halfway between Newcastle and Port Macquarie on NSW’s Central Coast, a tiny seaside village called Seal Rocks protrudes out into the Pacific. Surrounded by the nearby Wallingat National Park and Myall Lakes National Park, Seal Rocks is known for surfing, remote beaches, and its active lighthouse on Sugarloaf Point (where you can also stay!).

Lord Howe Island

Looking like something straight out of Jurassic Park (the beautiful parts, minus the dinosaurs), Lord Howe Island is packed with jaw-dropping rugged beauty from rainforest-clad volcanic mountains to fern-laced gullies. And be sure to check out Ball’s Pyramid, a dramatic hunk of basalt that is the planet’s tallest sea stack. This is absolutely one of the best places to visit in Australia.

Brunswick Heads

If you venture a 20 minute drive outside the hustle and bustle of Byron Bay, you’ll find yourself in the uber-cool streets of Brunswick Heads, where the baby blue ocean laps up against the rocks and you can forget the rest of the world. There’s a cracking local pub, old school picture house and a thriving foodie scene.

Lennox Head

Big on Urban List’s radar this year, tranquil Lennox Head is where it's at for chilled times on the coast. Just 25 minutes by car from Byron, it’s got just the right amount of chilling versus doing. Be sure to head straight to Seven Mile Beach for the secret swimming spot of your dreams followed by a hike up to Lennox Head lookout where you’ll score views for days. 

Crescent Head

Located north of Port Macquarie, at Crescent Head it’s about the epic surf beaches. With four perfect right-hand point breaks, you can expect to ride for anywhere up to 200 metres, revered by longboarders around the world.

Just under four hours drive from Sydney, Orange features over 60 vineyards and about 40 cellar doors. Tucked into rolling vine-covered hills and pretty country lanes and set against the backdrop of an ancient, extinct volcano called Mount Canobolas, Orange is Australia’s highest elevation wine region—making it perfect for chardonnay, pinot noir, riesling, pinot gris, merlot, and shiraz.

Coonabarabran

This central-west town in NSW sits near the spectacular Warrumbungle National Park, which is Australia’s first and only Dark Sky Park—an internationally-recognised place of crystal clear skies (Joshua Tree in California and Vrani Kamen in Croatia are two others). Coonabarabran sits on top of a volcanic mountain range and boasts a postcard perfect central village. 

This humble little town has recently gained the reputation of quickly becoming the new less bustling Byron Bay, and it's not hard to see why so many are falling in love with this little beachside oasis. From their incredible weekly farmers markets or their picturesque ocean rock pool looking over Main Beach, we can’t get enough of this quaint spot particularly with its central location between Brissy and Sydney meaning you can make a cheeky long weekend getaway without losing a whole day to travel. 

The Best Places To Visit In South Australia

Flinders ranges.

The Flinders Ranges are the largest mountain ranges in South Australia, starting around 200 km north of Adelaide. With towering ancient cliffs and epic other-worldly craters, this spectacular landscape is thought to be 800 million years old, and has been home to the Adnyamathanha people for tens of thousands of years.

The Breakaways

The Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, known simply as The Breakaways, is one of the most unique settings in all of Australia. Formed by a series of orange, white and red eroded hills above a desolate plateau, The Breakaways are a drive away from the mining town of Coober Pedy, dubbed the “opal capital of the world”, and famous for underground dwellings (“dugouts”) built by locals to avoid the scorching heat. 

Eyre Peninsula

Famous for its epic water activities, the thrill-seekers among us can hop aboard a shark cage dive or swim and play with sea lions off the coast of Port Lincoln. For something a little more lowkey but just as stunning, you can watch on in awe as whales and their calves frolic under towering, wave-ravaged cliffs. Seafood lovers will not be disappointed either when they tuck into Eyre Peninsula’s legendary oysters and freshly-caught seafood at the local fishmongers.

Fleurieu Peninsula

The Fleurieu Peninsula boasts coastlines upon coastlines that make you feel like you’re winding your way through the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. Hot tip, rent out a convertible to really max out on those wind-in-your-hair feels, just like in Positano. This peninsula is also decked out amazing regional food and wine, rugged cliffs and sheltered coves worth exploring.

Kangaroo Island

With more than a third of Kangaroo Island being a protected nature reserve, it’s not uncommon to stumble across the locals including koalas, brown bandicoots, kangaroos, sea lions or even the odd orca whale. Suitably, the island is also home to a number of low-impact, luxury eco-resorts that provide a calming reprise from regular life. This is without a doubt, one of best holiday destinations in Australia.

The Best Places To Visit In Western Australia

The Quobba Coast is located just south of the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area. Known for its fishing, walking and snorkelling, this thin strip of land stretches out for 160 kms between Lake Macleod and the Indian Ocean. There’s no shortage of wildlife here, either: expect to see roaming herds of wild goats, leatherback turtles bobbing in the ocean, and humpback whales breaching over the waves.

Out on the most westerly point of Australia, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shark Bay is known for its dugong (or “sea cow”) population, the wild dolphin hang-out of Monkey Mia, and stromatolites—living fossils that are among Earth’s oldest lifeforms, dating back 3 billion years. The remote Shell Beach is also a quiet place to relax, its white sands made from crushed cockle shells stacked nearly 10 metres thick.

Gateway to the amazing wonder that is the Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth is a tiny town on the coral coast of WA, a 15-hour drive (or 1,270km) north of Perth. A nature lover’s paradise with its coral reefs, colourful fish and whale sharks, the world-famous crystal clear waters of the Ningaloo Reef (which stretches 300km) is the reason visitors flock from all over the world to Exmouth but the whole region is drop dead gorgeous.

The Kimberley Region

Boasting some of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, and fewer people per-square-kilometre than almost any other place on Earth, the Kimberley will stir your soul and awaken your senses. Expect: thundering waterfalls, spectacular gorges, pockets of rainforest and freshwater swimming holes—we promise this will be a trip you'll never forget. 

Esperance 

If you’ve ever seen pictures of roo’s sunbaking on white sand beaches, chances are they were taken at Esperance. Around a 90 minute flight from Perth, this stunner is all easy-going vibes and great beach life. With fine quartz sand meeting a placid ocean and remote national parks to the town's southeast, there’s also 105 islands just offshore, making up the Recherche Archipelago, which are inhabited by fur seals, penguins and seabirds.

Set on the Indian Ocean at the top of WA, Broome is straight up gorgeous. Think turquoise waters, uncrowded shores, palm trees and a stunning red-dirt backdrop. Hopping on a sunset camel ride across the golden sand is a must.

Rottnest Island 

If you were dreaming of a vacay to the Greek Islands, then good news, we’ve found somewhere even more picturesque and way cheaper. Just a short ferry ride from Perth, the island is home to a nature reserve, hiking tracks, secluded coves and loads of gram-worthy beaches (our fave is Little Salmon Bay). 

Augusta is the perfect spot for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. Home to some pretty fantastic fishing and snorkelling, it’s also a great spot for windsurfing and kite surfing as well as a bit of bushwalking. Climb the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse for some pretty special views and then check out one of the Margaret River wineries for a nice long lunch.

Whenever you see a WA tourism ad, you’re bound to see the sweeping coastlines and azure waters of beautiful Coral Bay. Home to the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef, you’ll be dazzled by how close you can come to some unique and breathtaking marine life like the mighty whale sharks, spot manta rays or dugongs on their seasonal migrations. This secluded paradise is the ultimate vacation for lovers of sun, sand and glorious weather.

This gorgeous sheltered little bay is magic for those wishing for a cruisy beachside break without all of the hustle and bustle, but still close enough to the Margaret River Wine Region for when you want your vino fix. Sunbathers will be dazzled by the crystal blues of the unadulterated ocean whilst diehard surfers will have their choice of some world-class breaks all at your doorstep. 

The Best Places To Visit In The Northern Territory

Bitter springs.

One of our favourite spots for swimming in the Northern Territory, Bitter Springs is also home to some great bushwalks as well as some beautiful native plants which flower each year in March or April. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Darwin and the perfect spot for a picnic or a BBQ so remember to stock up before you go.

Dhambaliya/Bremer Island 

Located off the coast of Arnhem Land, it’s home to four of the world’s seven sea turtle species, boasts a pristine coastline, walking trails and the dreamy Banubanu Beach Retreat. In between sunning yourself on the beach, be sure to check out the famous Yirrkala art centre to gain an incredible insight into First Nations culture.

Tiwi Islands

Comprising two main islands—Bathurst and Melville—one visit and you’ll understand why it’s been given the nickname, ‘Island of Smiles’.  Packed with art, culture and natural beauty, the island’s residents are what make this place so special. Pro tip: some areas do require a permit so be sure to check before you leave for your holiday.

Alice Springs/Mparntwe

Head here from 8 to 17 April to discover Parrtjima, an incredible, free light festival that celebrates First Nations art, history and culture. In between viewing amazing art installations and taking in live music, be sure to check out the stunning beauty of nearby Ormiston Gorge and Simpsons Gap.

Litchfield National Park

Whether you head in for a day from Darwin or Katherine or you camp overnight, Litchfield National Park is a stunner. Push yourself to the limit on the walking trails—the 39km Tabletop Track is a killer—or relax in a swimming hole under one of the waterfalls. And don’t miss Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole for swimming—there’s a nice easy walk between the two that will take you about 1.5 hours.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about Uluru, we just wanted to keep you on your toes. Of course you’re going to visit the big red rock if you’re going to the Northern Territory, the question is how to tackle it. Base yourself in nearby Yulara and take in the spectacle that is sunrise at Uluru. This will also give you plenty of time to explore the park and take in all its glory. 

The Best Places To Visit In Victoria

Further along the Great Ocean Road from summer hot spot Lorne, Apollo Bay is a little bit quieter, but still sees plenty of visitors over the warmer months. Apollo Bay is a great beachside town to base yourself out of if you're looking to explore the amazing sights along the Great Ocean Road. The Twelve Apostles are just an hour away, and the Californian Redwoods in Otway National Park need to be experienced to be believed.

Can’t get the idea of sipping ouzo by the Mediterranean out of your head? Why not give Lorne a try instead? Located only a two-hour drive from Melbourne, this coastal town is Australia’s very own slice of Mediterranean vibes, helped along by a thriving arts community and beach views to die for.

Yarra Valley

While it might be a well known fave among Victorians, if you haven’t been to Yarra Valley yet pop it to the top of your list. Think: boutique hotels among the trees, some of Australia’s best wineries, highly renowned cheese shops and some truly epic drives. In short, it’s the perfect weekender.

Mallacoota 

About a six hour drive from Melbourne, Mallacoota is surrounded by natural beauty thanks to its location on the mouth of the Wallagaraugh River with the Croajingalong National Park to the south-west, and the Cape Howe Marine National Park to the east. Pro tip: The Thurra River dunes walk is a highlight.

Mount Buller

Between the spectacular sweeping scenery and luxe resort facilities, Mount Buller’s busy slopes are one for the bucket list—it’s no surprise why it’s the chosen quick escape for Melbournians every winter. Boasting two very unique mountainsides, you’ll have the choice of the blue run Northern Slopes or the challenging black trail Southern Slopes to keep that heart rate up. Once you’re ready for some rest and relaxation, you’ll also be spoilt for options with over 35 bars and food hubs perfect for that ideal cosy après-ski vibe you’re craving. 

Queenscliff

Situated on the Bellarine Peninsula, historic Queenscliff is the perfect place for a little sojourn if you're into mouth-watering seafood. Located right on the head of Port Phillip Bay, Queenscliff harbour is a great spot to grab some fish and chips and watch the boats come in. Then take a stroll around town where sandstone buildings line its streets and pine trees are dotted along the foreshore.

Johanna Beach

Located a short distance from Cape Otway, the waves found at Johanna Beach are the creme de la creme, so much so it played host to the World Surfing Championships in 1970. Best accessed via car from the Great Ocean Road, the journey will prove to be worth it with distinct bars, rip channels and waves averaging over 1.5 metres high.

The Best Places To Stay In Tasmania

Located at the northern edge of the popular Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay is one of Tasmania’s most famous natural wonders. Littered with bushwalks, eco lodges, and places to fish, kayak and swim, Coles Bay is a relaxed seaside town, sitting beneath the stunning pink-granite peaks of the Hazards range.  

Bicheno 

Nestled between Douglas-Apsley National Park and Freycinet National Park, Bicheno is a relaxed seaside town on Tasmania’s east coast. A short drive from both Hobart and Launceston, Bicheno is a favourite holiday spot for Tassie locals, with pristine waters, orange rocks and, and at dusk, the town’s resident Fairy Penguins can be spotted waddling up from the see into their burrows. 

Bruny Island

Bruny Island has some of Tasmania's most beautifully preserved natural environments with abundant wildlife and stunning cliff top views. Besides the gorgeous scenery and wildlife, Bruny is also home to local producers specialising in oysters, cheese and chocolate, so here’s permission to stuff your face while taking it all in.

Flinders Island

With only 900 residents and 120 beaches, chances are you’ll have a nice stretch of sand to yourself when you holiday at Flinders. Go beyond the green rolling hills and be wowed by the rugged pink and grey granite mountain ranges of the Strzelecki National Park—there are loads of adorable animals to spot along the way too.

Freycinet Peninsula

Located on the east coast of Tasmania, Freycinet Peninsula is home to the majestic pink granite Hazards mountain range, secluded bays, white sandy beaches, bird-filled lagoons and beautiful Wineglass Bay.

Cygnet is the centre of the Huon Valley, famed for stunning and delicious apple, cherry and berry orchards; 83% of Tasmanian apples originate in the Valley and Cygnet is a great spot to see where all the fruit growing magic happens. Also popular with the artistically inclined, Cygnet is teeming with art studios, galleries and craft shops and also boasts an award-winning winery: Hartzview Vineyard at Gardners Bay.

Need accommodation? Read on for:

• Sydney's Best Hotels
• Melbourne's Best Hotels
• Brisbane's Best Hotels

Image credit: Ben Carless | Unsplash

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Best places to visit in australia and the pacific for 2023-2024.

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

South Island, New Zealand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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Port Douglas

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• Fashion & Lifestyle

Best Cities to Visit Australia: Discovering the Best Food, Culture, and Adventure

Are you deciding the best cities to visit Australia while you plan your trip? With its size and diversity, Australia has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine, culture, and adventure. Making a decision about which places to visit might be difficult with so many options. This article will discuss the top Australian cities to visit, the must-try activities, the most well-known Australian foods, and the finest methods to experience Australian culture. You will have all the knowledge necessary to organize an amazing vacation to Australia by the time you finish reading this article.

Introduction to Australia

Southern hemisphere is home to both a country and a continent, Australia. It is known for its gorgeous scenery, unusual animals, and hospitable locals. Each of Australia’s six states and two territories offers unique experiences and attractions. The nation is also home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, such as Surfers Paradise in Gold Coast and Bondi Beach in Sydney. It is simple to understand why Australia is a well-liked travel destination for people from all over the world.

Factors to Consider: When Choosing the Best Cities to Visit in Australia

It’s important to take seriously a few criteria before we discuss the finest cities to visit in Australia. Budget, season of the year you want to travel, interests, and length of stay are a few things to think about. Australia is a huge nation, and each of its cities offers distinct attractions and experiences. To make the most of your stay in Australia, precise itinerary planning is vital.

Best Cities to Visit in Australia: Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth

There are many cities in Australia that are worthwhile visiting, but certain of them stand out. The top Australian cities to visit are listed below:

Sydney, the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia, is known for its famous monuments, stunning beaches, and exciting nightlife. The Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach are a few of Sydney’s must-see sites. The city is a great place for travelers to visit since it provides a wide variety of dining, shopping, and cultural opportunities.

Brisbane is an energetic city known for its pleasant temperature, lovely parks, and thrilling nightlife. Several cultural institutions, including the Queensland Museum and the Gallery of Modern Art, are located in the city. Brisbane is also a wonderful starting point for traveling to the adjacent Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, which have some of Australia’s greatest beaches.

The art, music, and cuisine sectors of Melbourne, Australia’s cultural hub, are well-known. With its abundance of galleries, theaters, and museums, the city is a haven for those who like the arts. A lot of the greatest coffee in the world is served in the many cafes in Melbourne, which is also well known for its coffee culture. The National Gallery of Victoria, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground are a few of the must-see sites in Melbourne.

The capital of South Australia is Adelaide, which is known for its stunning architecture, cultural activities, and wine districts. The city is an excellent destination for art enthusiasts because it has several museums, galleries, and theaters. The surrounding wine districts of McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley can also be explored well from Adelaide.

Fourth-largest city in Australia and the state capital of Western Australia is Perth. The city is well-known for its relaxed atmosphere, gorgeous beaches, and lush parks. Kings Park, Fremantle, and Rottnest Island are a few of Perth’s must-see sights. Perth is a great location for foodies as well, since there are many eateries that provide fresh seafood and regional foods.

Discovering the Best Australia Food

Many of the dishes in Australia’s distinctive cuisine reflect the nation’s mixed background. On your journey to Australia, be sure to taste these popular Australian dishes:

Australians are famous for their meat pies, which have a pastry crust and are filled with meat and sauce. It is a common dish in Australia and is available in supermarkets, bakeries, and coffee shops all around the nation.

Australians love the chocolate cookie known as Tim Tam. It is often consumed with a cup of tea or coffee and is a well-liked tourist memento.

Australia’s favorite breakfast meal is vegemite, a spread created from yeast extract. It’s typically spread on toast or bread and many travelers find it to be an acquired taste.

A chocolate and coconut-topped sponge cake is used to make the dessert lamington. In most bakeries and cafés in Australia, you may get this delectable dessert.

Must-Try Australian Adventures: Hiking, Wildlife Encounters & Surfing

Australia offers a wide variety of outdoor sports, making it a refuge for adventure seekers. Here are a few Australian activities you should try:

The Blue Mountains, the Grampians, and the Kakadu National Park are just a few of the great hiking options that Australia’s national parks have to offer. A great approach to discover Australia’s animals and natural beauty is via hiking.

Some of the top surfing locations in the world, including Byron Bay, Gold Coast, and Margaret River, are found in Australia. Australia is a popular destination for surfers, and there are several rental facilities and surf schools there.

Wildlife Encounters

Koalas, wallabies, and kangaroos are just a few of the unusual animals that call Australia home. Innumerable wildlife parks and sanctuaries all throughout the nation provide chances to interact closely with these species.

Exploring Australian Culture: Festivals, Museums & Art Galleries

There are several museums, art galleries, and festivals in Australia that highlight the nation’s history and customs because of its rich cultural legacy. The following are a few of the top ways to learn about Australian culture:

The Sydney Festival, the Melbourne International Arts Festival, and the Adelaide Fringe Festival are just a few of the lively events that are popular throughout Australia. A fantastic chance to learn about Australian culture and traditions is provided by these events.

The Australian Museum, the National Museum of Australia, and the Museum of Contemporary Art are just a few of the museums in Australia that provide insights into the history and culture of the nation.

Art Galleries

The National Gallery of Victoria, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, and the Queensland Art Gallery are just a few of the top art galleries in Australia.

Accommodation in Australia: Hotels, Airbnb’s & Hostels

Australia has a wide variety of lodging choices for visitors, from five-star hotels to inexpensive hostels. Here are some of Australia’s top lodging choices:

The Park Hyatt Sydney, the Crown Towers Melbourne, and the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney are just a few of the luxurious hotels in Australia that provide top-notch facilities and services.

Airbnb’s

In Australia, Airbnb rentals are growing in popularity because they provide visitors the chance to experience local culture by staying in a resident’s home. In most Australian cities, Airbnbs are accessible and a great choice for families and groups.

For travelers on a tight budget, hostels are an alternative that can be found in most Australian cities. The Bounce Hostel in Sydney, the Space Hotel in Melbourne, and the Base Backpackers in Brisbane are a few of Australia’s top hostels.

Planning Your Trip to Australia: Tips & Resources

It might be difficult to plan a vacation to Australia, but with the correct tools and advice, it can be simple. The following advice and tools can help you organize your trip to Australia:

Visa Requirements

A visa is necessary for visitors to Australia, which may be obtained online or through a travel agency. Checking the visa requirements is crucial before making travel arrangements to Australia.

Travel Insurance

When visiting Australia, you must get travel insurance since it can pay for unexpected costs like medical bills and trip cancellations.

Australia’s climate differs regionally, so it’s important to check the weather before making travel plans.

Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD) as its official currency, thus you must convert your money before traveling there.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ s

Do I need a visa to travel to Australia?

Yes, most visitors require a visa to enter Australia. Check with the Australian Department of Home Affairs for specific visa requirements.

What is the best time to visit Australia?

Depending on the area you intend to visit, there is an ideal time to go to Australia. In general, the nation has favourable weather from September to November and March to May.

What is the currency in Australia?

The currency in Australia is the Australian Dollar (AUD).

Are there dangerous animals in Australia?

Australia is known for its unique wildlife, although deadly animal sightings are uncommon. It’s crucial to abide by safety precautions and preserve the environment.

What are some must-visit attractions in Australia?

Popular attractions in Australia include the Sydney Opera House, Great Barrier Reef, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Great Ocean Road, and the Daintree Rainforest, among others.

Is it safe to swim in Australian beaches?

Swimming is typically safe at Australian beaches. But it’s crucial to heed any cautions or recommendations issued by lifeguards regarding currents or marine creatures.

Beautiful Australia has a lot to offer in terms of adventure, food, and culture. You may enjoy a memorable vacation to Australia by visiting the top cities in the country, trying the must-try local cuisine, going on Australian adventures, learning about the local way of life, and booking the best accommodations. Your vacation to Australia may be easily planned with the correct tools and advice. So why are you still waiting? Plan your vacation to Australia right away!

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Source and References for all the Image and videos are:

Photo by Ben Mack – [Image]

Photo by Korey Becker – [Image]

Photo by Rachel Claire – [Image]

Thanh Berthou 2011-2023 – [Image]

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