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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
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• Queensland holidays
• South Australia holidays
• Victoria holidays
• Western Australia holidays

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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.

An email you’ll actually love

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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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.

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

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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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. 🙂

Thank you so much. 🙂

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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

K'gari (Fraser Island)

Port Douglas

Kakadu National Park

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31 of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Australia

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: July 23, 2023

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

Table of Contents

The Best Places to Visit in Australia

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

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

1. Great Barrier Reef

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

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

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

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

2. Daintree Rainforest

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

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

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

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

3. Fraser Island

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

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

4. Whitsundays

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

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

5. Port Douglas

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

Known as the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, Cairnes is located about 1,700 kilometers north of Brisbane. Cairns enjoys a tropical climate and is nestled between the Coral Sea and the rainforests of the Wet Tropics, offering a unique blend of marine and terrestrial attractions.

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

7. Gold Coast

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

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

8. Twelve Apostles

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

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

9. Melbourne

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

South Australia

10. kangaroo island.

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

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

11. Wilpena Pound

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

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

12. Barossa Valley

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

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

13. Burra Homestead

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

14. Lake Gairdner

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

New South Wales

15. sydney opera house.

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

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

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

16. Blue Mountains

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

17. Sydney Harbour Bridge

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

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

18. Bondi Beach

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

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

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

19. Byron Bay

Nestled on the northeastern coast of New South Wales, Byron Bay artfully combines natural beauty with its laid-back culture. The town’s location, just about 800 kilometers north of Sydney and 170 kilometers south of Brisbane, Byron Bay is easily accessible from the major city centers. Framed by pristine, golden-sand beaches and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Byron Bay’s geography is spectacular.

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

The Outback

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

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

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

Northern Territory

21. uluru-kata tjuta national parks.

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

22. Kata Tjuta

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

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

23. Kakadu National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Western Australia

25. hamelin bay stingrays.

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

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

26. Pinnacles

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

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

27. Cable Beach

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

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

28. Kimberly Region

The Kimberley region is one of Australia’s hidden treasures, located in the remote northern part of Western Australia. This vast, rugged wilderness area spans over 420,000 square kilometers, stretching from Broome in the west to Kununurra and Lake Argyle in the east, and from the Timor Sea in the north to the Great Sandy and Tanami deserts in the south.

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

29. Rottnest Island

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

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

30. Wine Glass Bay

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

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

31. Maria Island

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

As Megan stated in her article:

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

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

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

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

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

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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 🙂

23 of the best things to do in Australia

Nov 2, 2023 • 13 min read

Experience the best of Australia with this guide to the top things to do © Dallas and John Heaton / Getty Images

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

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

1. Admire the Sydney Opera House from a different angle

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

Local tip: Time your visit to watch  Badu Gili  – a light show of First Nations stories by Aboriginal artists – projected onto the Opera House. It has been such a hit that in recent years it has turned into a daily free event at sunset.

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

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

3. Be dazzled by the marine life at Ningaloo Reef

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

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

4. Eat authentic world cuisine and new Australian fusions

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

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

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

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

6. Watch baby penguins waddle 

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

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

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

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

8. Join Sydney locals on the Bondi to Coogee walk

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

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

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

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

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

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

It might have started off as a protest, but today, over 40 years later, Australia’s largest LGBTIQ+ Pride parties all night. What makes the parade the highlight is the 200 flamboyant floats. The vehicles are decorated 12 months ahead, and dancers practice weekly to sashay for that one night. Grab a stool or milk crate to watch from the sidelines and prepare to shout “Happy Mardi Gras!” to strangers. But the nightlife excels  all year round in Sydney , with cozy, queer-friendly pubs including the Bearded Tit . 

11. Explore Uluru with an Aboriginal guide

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

Planning tip: Go at dawn to beat the heat, then go back at night to see the desert illuminated by 50,000 lights in the Field of Light show.

12. Spot native wildlife on Kangaroo Island, South Australia

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

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

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

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

14. Get naked at a nudist beach

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

15. Spot a koala 

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

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

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

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

17. Admire Aboriginal rock art

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

18. Drink in Australia's varied wine regions

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

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

19. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef sustainably

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

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

20. Try Aussie snacks

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

You’re most likely to bring home Tim Tams, the chocolate-covered biscuits that Aussies longingly sob for when overseas. Australia’s greatest export to the coffee world is the flat white, which is most famously fine-tuned in Melbourne.

21. Stay out all night in Melbourne

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

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

22. Learn about Australia’s migration story

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

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

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

Local tip: Obviously, you don't want to get cozy with deadly Australian animals. Always ask locals for advice on where it is safe to swim or walk, and heed warning signs before heading out. 

This article was first published August 2021 and updated November 2023

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Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

25 Best Places to Visit in Australia

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

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

Map of Places to Visit in Australia

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

25. Canberra [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

24. The Pinnacles [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

23. Gold Coast [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

22. Alice Springs [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

21. Karijini National Park [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

20. Darwin [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

19. Daintree Rainforest [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

18. Byron Bay [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

17. Fraser Island [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

16. Broome [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

15. Cairns [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

14. Kings Canyon [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

13. Adelaide [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

12. Blue Mountains [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

11. Great Ocean Road [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

10. Perth [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

9. Kangaroo Island [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

8. Brisbane [SEE MAP]

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

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

7. Tasmania [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

6. Whitsunday Islands [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

5. Melbourne [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

4. Kakadu National Park [SEE MAP]

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

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

3. Great Barrier Reef [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Sydney [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Sydney

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

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

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Reader interactions.

December 22, 2019 at 11:08 am

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

July 27, 2017 at 10:36 am

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

July 21, 2017 at 4:30 am

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

January 12, 2017 at 11:24 pm

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

September 29, 2016 at 11:05 pm

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

January 16, 2016 at 6:21 pm

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

January 10, 2016 at 10:05 am

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

August 12, 2015 at 5:41 am

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

August 1, 2015 at 4:45 pm

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

May 7, 2015 at 8:35 am

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

August 4, 2014 at 9:33 pm

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

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Australia

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Jul 22, 2023

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

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

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

1. Sydney Opera House, New South Wales

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sydney

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on Australia

20 Best Places in Australia you must visit

With state borders due to open soon and international travel far in the distance, if you’re an Aussie now might be a great time to consider a road trip in Australia. Whether you’re looking to stay closer to home or waiting for inter-state flights to resume, we’ve named the 20 best places in Australia you should visit to satisfy your urge for adventure!

1. Norfolk Island

This tiny island in the South Pacific Ocean is one of Australia’s best kept secrets. Norfolk Island is located a 3 hour flight from Sydney, with very limited flights each week. It is therefore the perfect oasis to escape to, especially if you’re looking to avoid crowds and enjoy beaches entirely to yourself.

Read more: Why you should visit Norfolk Island

2. Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is a 243 kilometre stretch of road along Australia’s southern coast. The road is most known for the 12 apostles, located off the shore of Port Campbell National Park. It will take you under 3 hours to reach the apostles if driving directly, though you should certainly try to take most of the coastal route from Torquay.

3. Bondi Beach

Located in the suburbs of idyllic Sydney, Bondi Beach has become one of Australia’s most popular spots. The beach is most famous for the Bondi Icebergs, where locals and visitors alike can take a swim in the ocean-filled swimming pool.

4. The Flinders Ranges

South Australia has a lot of gems that slip under the radar on typical Australian itineraries, and the Flinders Ranges is no exception. One of my favourite memories in this part of Australia was a three-day hike in Arkaba . This part of the country is rough and rugged, making it perfect for an outback adventure.

Read more: Everything you must see and do in the Flinders Ranges

5. Bay of Fires, Tasmania

Tasmania has quickly become one of Australia’s most sought after holiday destinations. The natural island beauty is full of iyllic locations, from beaches to impressive mountain ranges to cafe culture in the capital city, Hobart. But by far my favourite location on the island is the colourful Bay of Fires in the east of the island. Best of all: you will almost always have pockets of the island all to yourself!

6. Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is truly one of the few destinations in Australia I would jump at the opportunity to re-visit. There’s something so magical about this small island off the coast of South Australia, home to a healthy population of kangaroos (of course) and sea lions. The easiest way to reach the island is by ferry from Adelaide, where you can load your car and make the short trip across the water. You’ll need at least a few days and up to a week to make the most of this destination.

7. Lord Howe Island

There are few places as surreal and unforgettable as Lord Howe Island . This tiny island in the Tasman Sea is characterised by white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and a dramatic backdrop named Mount Gower. The island hosts a range of short day hikes and full-day hikes, making the island a perfect choice for a more active adventure in an idyllic location.

8. Bruny Island

Tasmania is full of hidden gems and Bruny Island is no exception. This small island has become a favourite for travellers visiting Hobart, as it is located a short drive and ferry ride from the mainland. There are endless short hikes to choose from on the island, and you can’t miss the opporotunity to see “the neck” from above.

Read more: A Guide to the South of Tasmania

What list of iconic Australian locations would be complete without mention of Sydney’s iconic harbour? Sydney is by far the most visited city for international travellers, who mostly land and begin their adventure in Australia’s most recognisable city. You’ll need at least a few days to explore the city at length – from the Sydney harbour to Bondi Beach.

10. Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a force to be reckoned with. It has quickly become one of the most sought after holiday destinations in the country, both for international tourists and Australians alike. There is an endless stream of cafes, healthy vegan eateries and weekend markets to make the most of this relaxed beach town.

11. Blue Mountains

Just a short drive outside of Sydney lies the iconic Blue Mountains. This is arguably the best day trip from Sydney, as in a short time you will arrive to the pristine serenity of Australia’s countryside. It is a great area for hikers and day-walking enthusiasts, with plenty of trails to explore.

12. Uluru/Ayers Rock

Over in the heart of Australia lies Uluru or Ayers Rock. This sacred site is an icon across the world, but surprisingly many Australians are yet to visit! The Northern Territory is full of surprises, so be sure to make your visit part of a larger itinerary to explore the NT.

13. Barossa Valley

As far as the best places in Australia go, the Barossa Valley is a must visit for wine lovers. This region is famous the world over for producing award winning wines, as well as being home to some magnificent farm-to-table produce.

Read more: Visiting the Barossa Valley

14. Bondi Icebergs

The Bondi Icebergs swimming pool has become a destination in itself in recent years! Bondi Beach is right next door, offering holiday goers one of the best Australian beaches right at their fingertips. The Bondi Icebergs swimming club is open to everyone for a small entry fee.

Price: $7 for adults; $5 for children

15. Whitsunday Islands

Queensland is home to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and also some of the most iconic white sand beaches you will find across the country. The Whitsunday Islands are dreamy enough to make you feel as if you have been whisked away to the likes of Bora Bora or the Madlives, just without the bungalows on stilts! But if you’re looking for a dreamy destination without leaving Australia, you can’t beat this part of the country.

16. Port Douglas

If your budget is less sub-tropical islands and more mainland, then look no further than Port Douglas. PD is in Northern Queensland and is considered the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. There’s a lot to love about this small coastal town with some great restaurants, quirky cafes and plantbased eateries.

17. Bridestowe Lavender Farm

If you time your adventure accordingly, a visit to Tasmania’s lavender farm amidst full bloom is unforgettable. The lavendar normally blooms in mid-late January and lasts a few weeks.

Read more: The 50 Best Things to see in Tasmania

18. Melbourne

Melbourne is another city that has to make the list, affectionately known as Australia’s cultural capital. Moreover, this city is the heart of Australia’s great coffee culture and where it began. Melbourne is such a vibrant city that you could spend days exploring all it has to offer without even scratching the surface. For an ethereal view over the city, try one of the morning hot air balloons to see Melbourne from above in a soft, golden glow.

19. Pretty Beach

If you’re looking for an escape beyond the ordinary, the Central Coast of New South Wales is a great place to start. Just over an hour’s drive North of Sydney and you will arrive in the coast, with endless small beaches and dramatic views to be found. I checked in to Pretty Beach House for the ultimate getaway.

20. Western Australia Beaches

Any Australian adventure must include a visit to Western Australia, where true natural beauty lies. This part of the country is so untouched that you can often enjoy the beaches to yourself. The best way to experience the west of Australia is to hire a car. Highlights are mostly located along the coastline, best experienced through a road trip.

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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53 Best Places to Visit in Australia

Blessed by thousands of kilometers of untouched coastline , an ecosystem as diverse as anywhere on the planet, and a distinctly laid-back culture that comes part and parcel with VBs, footy, and sunny skies, Australia is unsurprisingly one of the most desirable tourist destinations on Earth.

From the natural wonderland spread across this far-off nation; Uluru to the Twelve Apostles, the Daintree and Great Barrier Reef to Kakadu National Park ; and the built-up cosmopolitan hubs of artsy Melbourne, scenic Sydney, and pristine Perth; the Land Down Under might be a fair distance from the rest of the world, but it delivers (and then some) for anyone willing to make the journey.

If you’re looking for an adventure, head to Western Australia or Tasmania for unspoiled forests, deserts, and craggy coastline; take a road trip up the Australian east coast and explore world-famous surf spots like Byron Bay and the Gold Coast, or tackle the Larapinta Trail in Alice Springs – one of the toughest hikes in the country.

If you’re after some city action, Melbourne is home to a thriving arts scene, delicious foodie hangouts, and some of the best coffee in Australia; while Sydney offers iconic landmarks like the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, as well as a thriving beach culture.

Perth is one of the most isolated cities in the world but also one of the most pristine and picturesque, with sandy white beaches and crystal-clear waters; and Brisbane is a great place to experience the traditional Aussie culture, with plenty of pubs and markets to explore, and Darwin is a prime spot to soak in the tropical air and learn about Aboriginal culture.

No matter what you’re into, Australia has something for everyone – so put on your sunnies, slap on some sunscreen, take a look at some of the best places to visit in Australia, and get ready to explore this amazing country!

1 – Cairns

Wildly underrated compared to the East Coast’s major cities (looking at you, Sydney and Melbourne), there are plenty of fun things to do in Cairns , the Far North Queensland’s gateway to Mother Nature’s magic.

With a go-slow atmosphere and some of the nation’s most breathtaking natural landmarks within arm’s reach, Cairns (hint: do as the Aussies do and pronounce it like ‘ cans’ ), is a veritable natural wonderful.

In the small yet vibrant city itself, you’ll uncover crowd favourite attractions like the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, Cairns Botanical Gardens, the Cairns Aquarium, and the Cairns Night Market – open every evening from 5 pm, the market morphs into a lively hubbub of local jewellers, craftsmen, and mouth-watering food.

However; it’s common knowledge you don’t journey to Cairns to stay within city limits. Venture beyond the residential area and you’ll find an array of natural playgrounds that will inspire even the most seasoned traveller.

The Great Barrier Reef (the largest coral reef system in the world), Daintree National Park (the world’s oldest rainforest, with crocodile tours to boot!), and Mossman Gorge are all within day-tripping distance from Cairns , each making for some of the most incredible experiences and memories down under.

If natural beauty is what you’re after on your Aussie adventure, there’s no place better to start than Far North Queensland’s gem, Cairns. With its gorgeous weather, laid-back vibe, and easy access to some of Australia’s most stunning landscapes, it would be impossible to not consider this spot as one of the prime places to visit in Australia .

• Tours & Activities in Cairns

See also: Best Great Barrier Reef Tours from Cairns

2 – Kakadu National Park

Home to a lush rainforest where the worries of the world fall away, ancient rock carvings, and rugged landscapes encompassing hills, woodlands, and sandstone cliffs spread out as far as the eye can see, Kakadu National Park is one of Australia’s lesser-known yet highly treasured natural landmarks .

Located in the Northern Territory close to Darwin, Aboriginal culture and heritage are front-and-centre in Kakadu – home to the world’s largest concentration of Aboriginal rock art , it’s easy to spend a day (or two) exploring all the ancient stories and artwork that adorn the enormous 20,000-square-kilometre park.

One of the best ways to take in Kakadu is on a cruise down Yellow Water Billabong where you’re all but guaranteed to spot crocodiles lazing about in the sun, birds swooping through the air, and turtles swimming through the water.

Kakadu isn’t all rainforest walks and river cruises though; hike to Jim Jim or Twin Falls for a cooling dip in one of the park’s many natural swimming holes and witness thundering waterfalls, take a scenic drive down the Arnhem Highway , or learn about Kakadu’s unique flora and fauna as well as Aboriginal arts and heritage at the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

There’s so much to explore in Kakadu National Park that it would be impossible to see and do it all in just one visit – but that just means you’ll have to come back!

• Kakadu National Park tours from Darwin

3 – Sydney Opera House

You’ll be spoiled for choice when deciding which of the many fun things to do in Sydney to tick off your bucket list first!

The poster child of Australia and one of the nation’s proudest architectural icons , the Sydney Opera House – a $100 million marvel – is a must-see for first-time visitors to the country.

Situated on Sydney Harbour since 1959 with the stunning Sydney Harbour Bridge as its backdrop, the Opera House is one of the world’s most distinctive buildings and has come to symbolize both Sydney and Australia as a whole.

While you can admire the building from the outside for free, snapping selfies till the camera roll’s full, it’s recommended to splurge on a tour (or a show!) to really get a feel for what goes on inside one of the busiest performing arts centers in the world .

Hot tip: for a unique perspective, jump on the Circular Quay to Manly ferry – a 30-minute trip through the shimmering Sydney Harbour that cruises past the Opera House en route to the hip beachfront locale in Northern Sydney.

• Sydney Opera House tours

See also: Best tourist attractions in Sydney

4 – Sea World

One of a slew of theme parks tucked away on the Gold Coast – a beachfront stretch of warm golden sand about an hour’s drive south of Brisbane on the nation’s east coast – Sea World has long been a top-tier destination for voyaging families , particularly during the school holidays.

A marine mammal park , oceanarium, and theme park all rolled into one, with a strong emphasis on animal care and environment conversation, Sea World has something for everyone with hair-raising rides (don’t miss the Jet Rescue Coaster), delightful shows, educational presentations, and no shortage of opportunities to get up close and personal with marine life both above and below the water.

You have the chance to see polar bears and penguins at Polar Bear Shores and the Penguin Encounter, feed dolphins (or even swim with them), and enjoy the seal show where these playful pinnipeds put on an impressive performance of flips and tricks.

There’s also a large Nickelodeon-themed area for little ones with rides inspired by SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

And that’s just scratching the surface. For animal-loving kids and adults alike, there are so many things to do at Sea World – not to mention Dreamworld, Wet ‘N’ Wild, and Warner Bros. Movie World around the corner.

Hot tip: buy your tickets online in advance to save time queuing up at the gate, and if you plan on visiting any of the neighbouring parks, you’ll save a decent chunk of cash by purchasing a combination ticket.

• Sea World Gold Coast tickets

See also: Best Gold Coast Theme Parks

5 – Great Barrier Reef

Teeming with beautiful marine life, the Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s (and the world’s) most popular tourist attractions .

A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, this natural wonder stretches for over 2000km along the Queensland coast and is made up of 3000 individual reef systems and coral cays. Collectively, it’s home to arguably the most diverse and colourful underwater ecosystem on the planet – an undeniable slice of Heaven on Earth for snorkelers and scuba divers alike.

While you could easily spend days exploring all that the Great Barrier Reef has to offer, most visitors choose to base themselves nearby, with plenty of day trips departing from Cairns , Port Douglas or Airlie Beach , to the reef.

Snorkelling and diving are obviously top activities here, where you’ll come face to face with thousands of species of fish, turtles, rays, and vibrant coral in glass-like translucent waters; but there are plenty of other ways to experience the reef if you’re not a confident swimmer.

Take a glass-bottomed boat tour and hear the tidbits from a marine biologist, go sea kayaking, join a guided reef walk with an oxygen helmet, or hop on a semi-submersible vessel – an underwater observatory where you can see the reef while staying dry.

See also: 15 Best Great Barrier Reef Tours from Cairns

6 – Melbourne Cricket Ground

Looking for fun things to do in Melbourne ? Considered as one of the world’s premier sporting venues , and capable of hosting over 100,000 screaming fans foaming at the mouth for a game of AFL, cricket, or rugby, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is an icon of the city and a source of immense pride for locals.

The Richmond-based stadium has been around since 1853 and has played host to some pretty historic events over the years including the inaugural cricket test match in 1877, the MCG 1956 Summer Olympics, and, of course, the annual AFL Grand Final.

Played over winter from March through to September, Melbournians go barking mad during the footy season, donning their favourite team’s colours, screaming BALL at the top of their lungs, and wearing their heart on their sleeves as only footy fans know-how.

While attending any game is quintessential Australiana (meat pie and hot chips in hand), if you can land a ticket for the ANZAC Day clash (April 25th) or a finals hitout, the electricity and noise are taken up another level entirely.

Even if you’re not into live sport, a visit to the MCG is still well worth your time – go on a behind-the-scenes tour , explore the National Sports Museum which documents Australia’s rich sporting history dating back to colonial times, or just soak up the unique atmosphere and traditions on game day (even if you don’t understand what’s going on).

And if you happen to be in Melbourne during the Boxing Day Test match – one of cricket’s most anticipated annual events – then consider yourself very lucky indeed. Just remember to wear your green and gold (Australian Colors) with pride.

• Melbourne Cricket Ground tours

7 – Warner Bros. Movie World

One of the sister parks to SeaWorld – also on the Gold Coast, about an hour south of the Brisbane CBD – Movie World is a must-visit for anyone who loves movies, TV shows, and all things Hollywood.

With movie-themed rides galore (the 200-feet-high Batwing Spaceshot will have you feeling like you’re part of the action; the ultra-fast Superman ride is tailor-made for adrenaline junkies, and the Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster is a twisting and turning experience offering the perfect amount of family thrills), there’s plenty to keep you entertained throughout the day.

And that’s not to mention the star-studded shows, which feature all your favourite Warner Bros. characters including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Tweety Bird. Full of action, fire, and high-octane drifting, the daily Hollywood Stunt Driver show is also a firm favourite, as is the longstanding Hooray for Hollywood parade, featuring all your favourite Tinseltown icons of bygone eras.

As with SeaWorld, you’ll save time and money by purchasing your tickets online before you go. And if you’re visiting with family or friends, consider getting a group pass which offers great savings.

• Warner Bros Movie World tickets

8 – Brisbane

Small than Sydney and Melbourne but beloved for its year-round warm weather and relaxed, friendly vibe, there are plenty of fun things to do in Brisbane , the capital of Queensland and one of Australia’s most liveable cities.

Situated on the banks of the meandering Brisbane River (which winds its way through the city centre), and with a spectacular subtropical setting that’s home to lush rainforests, sprawling parklands, and pristine beaches , it’s easy to see why locals are so proud of their patch.

And while there’s plenty to keep you busy in town – from world-class museums and art galleries to trendy restaurants and bars, not to mention the open-air market precinct Eat Street Northshore and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – getting out into nature is also high atop many visitors’ itineraries.

Just a short drive from the city centre will take you to Mt Coot-tha Lookout where you can soak up sweeping views of the cityscape, or head to Moreton Island for a day of dolphin-spotting, sandboarding, and snorkelling. Drive a little further north and the glorious golden sands of the Sunshine Coast await.

Fun fact: Brisbane is also home to Australia’s largest inner-city man-made beach – Streets Beach at South Bank Parklands – which is perfect for cooling off on a hot summer’s day.

• Tours & Activities in Brisbane

9 – Whitsunday Islands National Park

Arugably Australia’s most picturesque collection of islands , boasting postcard-worthy white-sand beaches and contrasting turquoise waters, the Whitsundays lie in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef , just off the coast of Airlie Beach in Queensland.

With 74 islands to choose from (only a sliver of which are inhabited), you could spend weeks exploring all this stunning region has to offer. Start your trip in the bustling resort town of Airlie Beach where you can stock up on supplies, then hop aboard a boat or yacht and set sail for your own personal slice of paradise.

Most visitors head to Whitehaven Beach – famed for its seven kilometers of white, green and blue sandy swirls – which is accessible by boat from both Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island on a slew of day tours.

Other popular activities in this stunning and romantic archipelago include speed boat tours (hold on to your hats), snorkelling adventures, reef fishing, bushwalks, and kayaking through secluded coves and lagoons. Of course, you could always laze around at the beach for days on end too.

• Whitsunday Islands tours from Airlie Beach

10 – Daintree National Park

Officially the world’s oldest rainforest , the 1,200-square-kilometre Daintree straddles the tip of Australia’s east coast in Far North Queensland, making it a perfect day trip from Cairns or from Port Douglas .

As you might expect, such an ancient and biodiverse ecosystem is home to an incredible array of plant and animal species – including tree kangaroos, cassowaries, dingoes, 430 bird species, and over 12,000 types of insects – many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.

Walking trails wind their way through the dense jungle canopy (keep your eyes peeled for rare birds and butterflies), while swaying suspension bridges (don’t miss the Rex Creek suspension bridge) offer bird’s-eye views of the forest floor.

And if you really want to get off the beaten track (and we mean way off), consider taking a four-wheel-drive up Cape Tribulation Road to explore some of the more remote and beautiful parts of the park.

Hikers, make a beeline for Mossman Gorge or the Barron Falls Lookout Track; adventurers, join a safari-style off-road tour or embark on a crocodile cruise!

11 – Australia Zoo

Made famous around the world by the late and iconic Steve Irwin (Irwin’s family still owns and runs the zoo today), Australia Zoo is located an hour’s drive north of Brisbane on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and provides a fascinating glimpse into the Land Down Under’s rare wildlife , with no less than 5,000 animals on show.

As well as getting up close and personal with some of Australia’s most iconic animals – think koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, snakes and lizards – you can also learn all about the country’s unique wildlife at one of the many daily shows or presentations.

The tortoises and birds of prey shows are always a hit, but it’s the Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors Show – where trainers come within inches of crocodiles’ snapping jaws – that always leaves the crowd gobsmacked.

Don’t miss a chance to cuddle a koala, hand-feed a kangaroo, or get your photo taken holding a python! And, for something a little extra, consider opting for one of the Trainer for a Day programs to see how the infamous zoo runs its business.

• Australia Zoo tours from Brisbane

See also: Fun things to do on the Sunshine Coast

12 – Yarra Valley

Oenophiles, listen up! Whether you’re a Shiraz fan or more of a chardonnay drinker, a trip to Victoria’s Yarra Valley – one of Australia’s oldest wine regions and home to more than 80 wineries – is an absolute must.

Just over an hour east of Melbourne , the valley is renowned for its cool climate wines (chardonnay, pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon, and shiraz, in particular), but also produces some incredible bubblies and is even home to an award-winning gin distillery, Four Pillars.

When it comes to cellar doors, there are plenty to choose from, but the typical crowd favourites include Domaine Chandon, De Bortoli (don’t miss the flagship Noble One Botrytis Semillon dessert wine), Yering Station, and Oakridge Wines (tuck into a long lunch at the on-site restaurant, which has breathtaking views of the valley).

Of course, wine tasting is only one aspect of what makes the Yarra Valley so special. The region is also home to stunning mountain ash forests, picturesque villages, beautiful lakes and rivers, and plenty of gourmet food producers. So whether you’re a wine lover or not, this is one rolling hills destination that definitely shouldn’t be missed.

• Tours & Activities in Yarra Valley

13 – Great Ocean Road

Twisting its way along the southeastern coast of Australia for 243 kilometers of beachfront views , engulfing forest canopies, and cute seaside towns, the Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most iconic drives – and it’s not hard to see why.

Starting just outside of Melbourne, the drive takes in some of Victoria’s most spectacular coastline , with towering cliffs, rocky outcrops, sheltered bays and sandy beaches all waiting to be discovered. Along the way, you’ll also encounter quaint seaside towns, lush rainforests, and plenty of wildlife too.

There are countless highlights on this mesmerizing journey (it would take days to list them all), but the quintessential stops include Apollo Bay (a great place to tuck in for lunch), Port Campbell National Park (home to the Twelve Apostles rock formations), Loch Ard Gorge, and the Gibson Steps.

• Great Ocean Road tours from Melbourne

14 – Airlie Beach

If tropical paradise is what you’re after, there are a lot of fun things to do in Airlie Beach , in Queensland’s Whitsunday Islands.

This beautiful little town – which sits right on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef – is the perfect base for exploring all that this World Heritage-listed area has to offer. And trust us, there’s plenty to see and do!

Whether you’re keen to sail around the islands , go scuba diving or snorkelling on the reef, take a scenic helicopter ride, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, or just relax on one of the many pristine beaches, Airlie Beach has it all.

There’s also a great selection of restaurants and bars in town if you need to refuel (some of which feature cane toad racing as live entertainment!), as well as plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets.

• Tours & Activities in Airlie Beach

15 – Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Smack-bang in the heart of the dry, red, and dusty Northern Territory lies one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks – Uluru.

This huge sandstone monolith – which is more than 350 million years old and stands 348 metres tall – is the centrepiece of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, which covers an impressive 324,400 hectares. Just to put that in perspective, it’s 24 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and dates back to before the time of dinosaurs.

While famous for being home to Uluru, the sprawling park is also home to a number of other interesting rock formations (including the 36 domes of Kata Tjuta), Aboriginal rock art sites, and plenty of native wildlife too.

There are plenty of ways to experience this unique part of Australia, but we recommend opting for a guided tour that departs from Alice Springs to really make the most of your time here.

• Tours & Activities in Uluru

See also: Fun things to do in Alice Springs

16 – Kuranda

The mountainside, hippy-cultured, picturesque neighbour to Cairns , lesser-known Kuranda is a must-see destination in Tropical North Queensland.

Justifiably dubbed the Village in the Rainforest , Kuranda is adorably quaint, with local artisans and markets galore to explore, as well as an array of cafes and restaurants that use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Kuranda is also home to the world-famous Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway – two unique experiences that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding tropical landscape (and are sure to light up any social media feed).

If you’re after an adrenaline rush , you can try your hand at white water rafting on the nearby Barron River; to meet some local wildlife, head to the Kuranda Koala Gardens; or to stretch the legs, wander along one of the trails that skirt along Davies Creek or the Barron.

• Kuranda Rainforest tours from Cairns

17 – SkyPoint

Towering above Surfers Paradise – a party-centric slice of the Gold Coast where the number of nightclubs matches the number of pristine beaches – is SkyPoint, the nation’s highest observation deck perched atop the 77th-floor of the nation’s tallest building, the Q1.

While the views from the 230-meter-high observation deck are impressive enough on their own (the contrasting colours of golden beaches, a glassy city skyline, and green tropical mountains make for plenty of wonderful photo ops).

The real thrill comes from walking around the edge of the building on the open-air and utterly exhilarating SkyPoint Climb – you’ll traverse an outdoor staircase up toward the tower’s spire where stellar 360-degree views await.

Hot tip: for the best bang for your buck, consider a Deck and Dine combo ticket which offers discounted conversation deck tickets and a meal voucher to enjoy lunch or dinner with a view.

• SkyPoint Observation Deck tickets

18 – Kangaroo Valley

A beautiful and expertly hidden weekend getaway from either Sydney or Canberra (about two hours drive from both), Kangaroo Valley is a dream come true for nature lovers .

The valley is flanked by the majestic Kangaroo River, lush green forests, and rolling hills, and is home to an abundance of wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and – if you’re lucky – koalas.

There’s plenty to do in Kangaroo Valley too; go for a walk or cycle along the riverbank, enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade of a gum tree, take a dip in one of the many swimming holes, go trout fishing (or just relax with a good book), explore one of the many charming villages that dot the area (and pop into the Pioneer Village Museum), or visit one of the local wineries (Silos Estate is a crowd favourite – and don’t miss The Famous Berry Donut Van while you’re in the area).

• Kangaroo Valley tours from Sydney

19 – Sydney Harbour Bridge

Slapped on millions of postcards and emblematic of Sydney for as long as anyone can remember, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of Australia’s – and the world’s – most iconic man-made structures .

Completed in 1932, the bridge was an engineering marvel when it was first built and today remains one of the longest (and tallest) steel arch bridges in the world.

While there are plenty of ways to enjoy this architectural wonder, any adrenaline junkie’s top pick has to be climbing to the top ! Whether you’re a seasoned climber or it’s your first time scaling a structure, Sydney Harbour Bridge Climbing offers an unbeatable experience that takes you up into the heart of this Australian icon (with 360-degree views of Sydney Harbour to boot).

For a more low-key experience, take the train to Milson’s Point and walk across the bridge to The Rocks (or vice versa), or take a cruise on one of the numerous harbour Ferries for a spectacular sunset vista.

• Harbour Bridge Climb tickets

20 – Sydney Fish Market

A lesser-known New South Wales attraction is the Sydney Fish Market , yet despite flying under the radar its cultural and historical significance can’t be underestimated.

Located just a short walk from Darling Harbour and operating since 1872 with a few different locations across the journey, the Sydney Fish Market is the largest seafood market in Australia and one of the biggest in the world, selling over 50 tonnes of seafood each day.

Here you’ll find fresh seafood of all shapes and sizes (including live crabs, prawns, and lobster), as well as a variety of cafes, bakeries, tea bars, and even a fine fine store.

With behind the scenes tours , cooking classes run by the Sydney Seafood School, fruit and vegetable markets, a meat deli, a slew of events year-round, and the main market floor open 7 am to 4 pm every day, this isn’t your typical market!

21 – Bondi Beach

Australia’s most famous beach (ever heard of Bondi Rescue?), shaped in a brilliant crescent, located within easy access to Sydney’s main haunts, and attracting a multicultural crowd – Bondi Beach ticks all the boxes for a perfect day out by the sea .

With its wide-open expanses, world-famous surf breaks, and relaxed beach culture, Bondi is unsurprisingly one of Sydney’s most popular destinations – especially on a hot summer’s day.

Grab a towel and sunscreen, head to the sand, and enjoy people watching (or join in on a game of beach cricket or volleyball), swimming or surfing in the waves, checking out the nearby art galleries and trendy cafes, or simply relaxing under an umbrella with a good book.

To stretch the legs, the 6km Bondi to Coogee coastal walk takes about two hours and dishes up some of the most spectacular seaside scenery in Sydney. If you’re looking for some air-conditioned reprieve after a day of sunbaking, nearby Bondi Junction is both a transit hub and a shopping mall, with more than 300 stores and boutiques to choose from.

• Bondi Beach tours

22 – Barron Gorge National Park

Very much off the beaten path and a favourite of locals, Barron Gorge National Park is located in Far North Queensland and offers visitors some of the most spectacular scenery in Australia .

Not too far from the quirky town of Kuranda (see #16), the park is centred around Barron Falls , a waterfall that drops 125m into the gorge below, and stretches over 28 square kilometres (over 10 square miles) of lush rainforest, mountains, and valleys.

There are plenty of hikes to be had here ranging from easy strolls to difficult day-long treks (hot tip: consider the hike to Mount Williams via Smiths Creek – a strenuous but rewarding 5-6 hour adventure), as well as several lookouts where you can take in the jaw-dropping views .

If the mercury’s beating down, the freshwater swimming holes provide a wonderful and safe place to cool off (especially since jellyfish tend to flock to the coastal oceans), while the Barron River is perfect for a spot of fishing .

• Barron Gorge National Park tours

23 – Phillip Island

Infamous for its adorable nightly penguin parade – where hundreds of little penguins waddle up the beach and cross the beach to their sand dune burrows – Phillip Island is one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations .

Located just over two hours from Melbourne by car, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Phillip Island – a nature-lover’s paradise with ample opportunity for sightseeing, wildlife spotting, hiking, swimming, surfing, and simply relaxing with an ice cream in hand in the tourist-friendly town o Cowes.

Aside from the nightly parade of little penguins (which begins around sunset and lasts for about 30 minutes), highlights include the rugged coastline and panoramic sunset views from Cape Woolamai, boat trips out to Seal Rocks (home to Australia’s largest colony of fur seals – over 30,000 year-round), and the Koala Conservation Centre, where Australia’s furriest marsupials can be admired up close.

Besides the nature on offer, voyaging families have an array of entertainment to choose from: there’s A-Maze-N-Things for the kids, Go-Karting, scenic helicopter flights, the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, and plenty of beachside stalls and restaurants to keep everyone happy.

• Phillip Island tours from Melbourne

24 – Perth

The hub of Western Australian tourism and a city that’s constantly evolving, there are plenty of fun things to do in Perth , one of the most underrated destinations in Australia.

Often overshadowed by Sydney and Melbourne (and to a lesser extent Brisbane), Perth is a city with its own unique charms and plenty to offer visitors, whether you’re after an action-packed holiday or simply a heavy dose of go-slow vibes.

Situated on the banks of the Swan River, Perth is home to some of Australia’s best beaches including Cottesloe, Scarborough, and City Beach – all within easy reach of the CBD – as well as top-notch restaurants (including several celebrity chef-owned establishments), world-class sport at Optus Stadium (if visiting between March and September, visit an Eagles or Dockers AFL game), vibrant nightlife , lovely parks and gardens, and fascinating museums (don’t miss the Art Gallery of Western Australia).

However, the real draw of Perth lies outside of the city limits; thousands of kilometres of untouched coastline stretch from Broome in the north to Esperance in the south, and the surrounding Outback and Kimberley region is riddled with gorges, deserts, wildlife, and ancient Aboriginal traditions.

Hot tip: just a couple of hours south of Perth is Margaret River , a region known for its world-class wineries, stunning coastal scenery, and excellent surf breaks.

• Tours & Activities in Perth

25 – Port Campbell National Park

Home to the picturesque Twelve Apostles – a collection of limestone stacks that rise out of the Southern Ocean – Port Campbell National Park is one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations and a non-negotiable stop along the Great Ocean Road (see #13).

Located about a three-hour drive from Melbourne , between Port Apollo and Warrnambool, the park offers visitors plenty to see and do including helicopter flights over the Apostles and jagged coastline, sea kayaking, fishing, and bushwalking on the many well-marked trails.

The park is also a popular spot for whale watching (between June and October) and sunset photography ; the dramatic coastal scenery and bright blue waters of the Southern Ocean make for postcard-perfect shots.

And while the Twelve Apostles are the most renowned of the limestone structures, they’re far from the only; lesser-known but consistently surprising and delighting are London Bridge, the Gibson Steps, Loch Ard Gorge (arguably the most stunning of the lot!) and the Razorback.

26 – Werribee Open Range Zoo

One of the best places to visit in Australia if travelling with kids and keeping your trip to the major east coast cities, Werribee Open Range Zoo is a beloved safari park located about 30 minutes drive from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne’s CBD (Central Business District).

Featuring hundreds of animals including roaring lions, majestic tigers, giant elephants, and rare rhinos, the zoo offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with some of Africa’s most iconic creatures in open-air environments that mimic their natural habitat: the African Savannah.

There’s also a free 40-minute Safari Tour  that escorts you around the 200-hectare space, with a friendly and knowledgable guide pointing out all the animals – from bison and antelopes to zebras and ostriches – and telling you their incredible stories.

Safari Village where you can buy lunch (or just a cold drink) and watch the animals from the comfort of an air-conditioned restaurant; with plenty of shaded seating areas scattered throughout the park, it’s easy to spend an entire day here without getting too hot or too wet (depending on the season).

Werribee Open Range Zoo is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm and tickets should be purchased online. If you’re wanting something a little more VIP, the Early Morning Savannah Experience allows guests to tag along with zookeepers and see both feedings and training sessions first-hand!

• Werribee Open Range Zoo tickets

27 – Puffing Billy Railway Steam Train

A longstanding family favourite for Melbournians, Puffing Billy Railway is a narrow-gauge steam train that chugs through the lush and tree-lined Dandenong Ranges (with the 1,000 Steps and cute towns of Olinda and Sassafras is an attraction in its own right) just east of the city.

The charming railway was opened at the turn of the 20th century, and has been running ever since (albeit with a few breaks for restoration work); it’s also one of Victoria’s most cherished spots for those seeking a breath of fresh air, with over 400,000 visitors each typical year.

The journey takes you on a winding uphill trek from Puffing Billy Station in Belgrave to Gembrook (a distance of about 25 kilometres), passing through the sights and sounds of engulfing rainforest, tall eucalyptus forests, and picturesque villages along the 1-hour-and-50-minute journey – so make sure to keep your camera handy!

• Puffing Billy Railway tickets

28 – Gold Coast

Sun, sand, and surf year-round – that’s what the aptly-named Gold Coast is all about, and it’s no wonder this Queensland hotspot has long stood as one of the best places to visit in Australia .

With world-famous beaches like Surfer’s Paradise and Broadbeach (not to mention Coolangatta), theme parks like Dreamworld, Movie World, and Sea World, and a buzzing nightlife scene that turns the dial up to eleven during ‘Schoolies Week’, there’s something for everyone and plenty of fun things to do on the Gold Coast .

And if you’re looking to get away from the crowds for a bit, there are also plenty of lush rainforest walks (like the Burleigh Head National Park) and hidden swimming spots to be found.

The Gold Coast is a vibrant city that comes alive in summer; whether you’re looking for a party atmosphere (head to Surfer’s Paradise if you’re looking to let your hair down) or a more relaxed beach vibe, you’ll definitely find it here.

• Tours & Activities on the Gold Coast

29 – SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Right in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD and a stone’s throw from postcarded icons like Flinders Street Station and Southbank on the Yarra River, the kid-friendly SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is an animal lover’s highly-interactive delight.

Featuring more than 10,000 animals from more than 550 species (including everything from sharks and rays to penguins, jellyfish, and sea dragons), along with a range of hands-on exhibits that allow you to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures, this is one aquarium you won’t want to miss.

As befitting one of Australia’s largest aquariums , the award-winning SEA LIFE is also home to a number of impressive displays, including the giant Oceanarium (housing sharks, rays, and fish), the interactive Ray Lagoon, and the new 400,000-litre Great Barrier Reef exhibit.

One of the coolest things about SEA LIFE Melbourne’s 12 interactive zones is the massive ‘Oceanarium’ – a giant tank that takes up almost an entire floor and is home to a variety of sharks, sawfish, rays, and fish. If you’re feeling brave, there’s even a glass tunnel that runs through the centre for prime viewing!

Hot tip: if travelling with youngsters, don’t miss the ICE AGE: No Time For Nuts 4-D Cinema Experience as well as the Touch & Feel Discovery Rockpools.

• Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium tickets

30 – Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park

Ever wanted to meet a koala? To feed a kangaroo? Well, now’s your chance!

Deep in the suburbs of Sydney and well off the typical tourist trail, Featherdale Wildlife Park is a veritable wildlife wonderland that’s home to over 2000 native Australian animals , making it the perfect place to get up close and personal with some of our furry – and scaly, and tree-cuddling – friends

From kangaroos and koalas to emus, crocodiles, quokkas, and echidnas – just a sliver of the more than 260 different that call this award-winning attraction home – you can meet (and even pet) them all at this family-friendly park ; which also boasts a nature walk, bird aviary, children’s play area, and restaurant. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, book in for one of their keeper talks or wildlife encounters for an even more intimate experience.

31 – Healesville Sanctuary

Australia is home to some of the most unique and fascinating animals on Earth , and the Healesville Sanctuary – a small yet mighty sanctuary that specializes in housing and educating about (and caring for) specifically native species – is the perfect place to see them all in one go.

Located in Victoria’s picturesque Yarra Valley – about an hour’s drive from Melbourne and chock-full of wineries – this wonderful sanctuary lets you get up close and personal with everything from kangaroos and koalas to emus, dingoes, Tasmanian devils, wombats, and over 200 native bird varieties.

What’s more, as well as housing a large number of native Australian animals , the sanctuary has a dedicated rehabilitation program for injured and orphaned wildlife, as well as daily keeper talks.

Hot tip: Consider one of the VIP animal encounter experiences for a chance to go behind the scenes.

• Healesville Sanctuary tickets

32 – Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Situated on the eastern edge of Sydney’s central business district and occupying over 30 hectares of land, with spellbinding views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House (read: head to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair or the Fleet Steps for a front-row view!), the Royal Botanic Garden is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations – and as a relaxing juxtaposition from downtown, for good reason.

Boasting an impressive array of plant life from all over the world (including everything from rainforest specimens to cacti and succulents), as well as a range of interesting architecture, sculptures, and lakes, this lush garden is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic lunch.

What’s more, regular events are held on the garden grounds throughout the year, including art exhibitions, classical music concerts and musicals (like The Phantom of the Opera), food festivals, and more.

If you’re short on time, a guided tour is the ideal way to see all the Gardens’ best bit and learn a thing or two along the way; and don’t miss out on the chance to discover the history of Warrane (the Aboriginal name for Sydney’s land) on an Aboriginal culture and bush tucker tour.

33 – Grampians National Park

For a weekend away from Melbourne , why not venture to Victoria’s Grampians National Park? Located about three hours’ drive from the artsy city, this stunning park is a nature lover’s paradise, and boasts everything from rugged mountain ranges and eerie gorges to cool rainforest walks and tranquil lakes.

The park is also home to an impressive array of native wildlife , including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, emus, and hundreds of bird species that create a soundscape entirely contrasting to that of the big cities.

There are plenty of hiking trails to explore in the Grampians (ranging from easy half-hour strolls to strenuous multi-day treks), as well as ample opportunity for camping, fishing, and cycling; and if you’re feeling adventurous (or simply want to get a little higher), why not try rock climbing ?

Of all the hikes, however, one reigns supreme: at a whopping 160km in length – about 13 days worth of walking and camping – The Grampians Peaks Trail (160km) connects Mt Zero in the north through Halls Gap to its finishing point at Dunkeld in the south, with an artboard of diverse scenery along the way.

• Grampians National Park tours

34 – The Pinnacles Desert

If you’re looking for a surreal and otherworldly landscape to add to your Instagram feed, look no further than The Pinnacles Desert in Western Australia.

This eerily beautiful desert is made up of thousands of limestone spires that rise out of the sand like something from a science fiction movie, and it’s one of the most distinctive and Instagrammable places in the country .

Formed over millions of years by wind and water erosion, The Pinnacles Desert is located about two hours north of Perth near the town of Cervantes , making it an easy day trip from the city. While you can explore on your own, there are also plenty of tours available if you want to learn more about these strange natural formations from the experts.

All up, the desert – Australia’s answer to the towering natural formations of Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and the other famous American national parks – covers approximately 190 hectares, meaning there’s plenty of space to wander and find your own private slice of spire-filled heaven.

• Pinnacles Desert tours from Perth

35 – Museum of Contemporary Art Australia

A free museum located in The Rocks district of Sydney, right on the shores of Circular Quay with killer Opera House views, the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (or MCA for short) is dedicated to exhibiting and collecting the best in contemporary art from across the country and around the world.

The museum’s ever-changing roster of exhibitions features everything from video installations and paintings to photography and sculpture, with a focus on Australian artists but also showcasing work from international heavyweights among its impressive 4,500-piece collection.

MCA also offers a diverse range of educational programs for people of all ages, as well as free guided tours by artist-educators, artist talks, workshops, and more; making it the perfect place to learn about – and get inspired by – some of the most cutting-edge Aussie art.

36 – Blue Mountains National Park

An expansive and wonderful slice of Australian bushland just west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The park, which was established in 1879 and covers more than one million hectares , is famed for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and waterfalls (including breathtaking Wentworth Falls), and offers ample opportunities for hiking, camping, cycling, and birdwatching.

If you’re looking to explore the area a little further afield – or simply want to take a break from all the walking – there are also plenty of quaint villages scattered throughout the parklands (read: Glenbrook, Lawson, and Leura to name a few essential stops) that offer everything from cafes and restaurants to arts and crafts boutiques.

Adored by Sydneysiders, the Blue Mountains is most known for its Three Sisters – a trio of sandstone peaks that rise up out of the Jamison Valley. While walking trails around this area are some of the most rewarding in the park, offering incredible views from all angles, to so much more to the Blue Mountains that warrant at least a couple of days’ worth of exploring.

• Blue Mountains tours from Sydney

37 – Canberra

The political heart of Australia, Canberra is a charming and under-the-radar city that’s worth a visit for its unique history and culture – not to mention the killer views of snow-capped mountains.

The nation’s capital since 1908, Canberra is home to some of the most important institutions in the country , like Parliament House, the Questicon science museum, the Australian War Memorial, and the National Gallery of Australia; as well as a wealth of parks, gardens, and lakes.

It’s also home to a thriving (yet still underrated) food and wine scene , with an impressive array of restaurants serving up everything from modern Australian fare to authentic Thai and Indian cuisine.

To top it all off, Canberra is surrounded by nature reserves and national parks that are perfect for getting out of the city – so if you’re looking for the perfect blend of city, history, culture, and nature, this lesser-known city is well worth a weekend visit.

• Tours & Activities in Canberra

38 – Wave Rock Caravan Park

At over 110 meters long, as towering 15 metres from the ground in a dazzling array of sandy reds and browns and greys, Wave Rock is an awe-inspiring natural wonder 2,700 million years in the making that’s one of Western Australia’s most stunning examples of Mother Nature’s prowess.

And it’s easy to see why: this giant wave-shaped boulder, located a few hours outside of Perth via a pleasant drive through farmland in the small town of Hyden, is one of the most distinctive and picturesque rocks formations in the country.

While the weather-eroded rockface is the main attraction, the area is teeming with family-friendly activities : take a kayak out on Lake Magic, relax and unwind in The Salt Pond, stop in at the Wildlife Park for some selfies with furry friends, or take one of the enjoyable hiking trails through to the Humps and Mulka’s Cave.

With camping and caravan sites at the base of Wave Rock, as well as Indigenous tours , museums, and stargazing events, despite being underrated for its remote location, it’s one of the best places to visit in Australia.

• Wave Rock tours from Perth

39 – Lake Hillier

Tickle me pink! No, really – if you’ve ever wanted to see a lake that looks like Pepto Bismol, then head on down to Western Australia’s Middle Island for a look at Lake Hillier.

Located in the Recherche Archipelago, about 30 minutes off the coast of Esperance , this otherworldly pink lake is one of a handful in the world, and it’s well worth the trip out for a look if you’re looking for something that’s sure to light up any social media feed.

The cause of the lake’s unusual hue is still up for debate, but scientists believe it could be due to a high level of bacteria or algae in the water — in other words, it remains a uniquely beautiful and baffling creation of nature.

While no roads lead to the lake (it’s an island, remember), you can still view it from above on a scenic flight from Esperance – while the views at ground level are no doubt spectacular, it’s the bird’s eye angle with contrasting deep blues and that bubblegum pink that really hits home.

40 – Darling Harbour

Always busting with energy and excitement, Darling Harbour serves up an equal dose of enjoyment for every kind of tourist , all within arm’s reach of the CBD. This vibrant waterfront precinct is home to an array of attractions, restaurants, bars, and hotels; as well as a buzzing nightlife that’ll keep you entertained into the early hours.

Some highlights include the Madame Tussauds wax museum (featuring A-list celebrities and Australian icons), the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium (home to over 13,000 fish and aquatic animals), the Star Casino, Chinese Garden of Friendship, the art and science-focused Powerhouse Museum, and the IMAX Theatre, home to what they reckon is the world’s biggest cinema screen; not to mention an ever-changing roster of events (like Chinese New Year celebrations) and food festivals.

Speaking of food, for all of you gastronomes out there, Darling Harbour is a veritable smorgasbord of international cuisines , with something to tantalize any palate. From upscale restaurants like Momofuku Seiobo and Criniti’s Italian to casual eateries like Gelato Messina and Hurricane’s Grill, you’ll find no shortage of variety – or quality – here.

41 – Adelaide

Or Radelaide , as the Aussies have coined it, the South Australian capital city is a cosmopolitan metropolis with plenty of charm and character.

As Australia’s fifth-largest city, Adelaide is the perfect place to explore everything from history and culture to food and wine – not to mention the beautiful beaches that fringe its coastline.

With a population of over one million people, there’s no shortage of things to do in Adelaide – from world-class museums and art galleries, to lush parks and gardens, to trendy restaurants and bars, you could easily spend weeks exploring all the city has to offer.

One of the best ways to see Adelaide is on foot: wander through the pretty streets of North Adelaide, take a stroll along Glenelg Beach or Henley Beach Pier, or explore Victoria Square or Rundall Mall in the heart of downtown.

Outside of the city limits, however, it gets another whole level of impressive. Enter: wine country. Close to the city is McLarenvale, while a little further on is the world-famous Barossa Valley – both are must-visits for any wine lover .

Hot tip: if you plan on visiting Adelaide, try to do so when the annual Fringe Festival is on!

• Tours & Activities in Adelaide

42 – Sydney Tower Eye

With a harbour as iconic as that of Sydney, it seems only fitting that the city should have one of the best observation decks in the world to take it all in.

And that’s exactly what you’ll find at Sydney Tower Eye, located in the heart of downtown and towering above everything else around it.

At over 320 metres high, making it the tallest building in Sydney, Sydney Tower Eye offers 360-degree views of Sydney and its surrounds, from the Opera House and Harbour Bridge to Bondi Beach and – on a clear day – the Blue Mountains some 80km away!

The deck is open every day from 10 am to 8 pm most days (the last entry is an hour before close), making it a perfect spot to catch both daytime and sunset . And with the SkyFeast restaurant on the 82nd floor with floor-to-ceiling windows, a romantic date night is never too far away.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s also a Skywalk experience available that takes you out onto a platform hovering over the edge of the tower, giving you an even closer look at Sydney’s dizzying skyline as part of a 60-minute tour complete with a glass walkway and 4D cinema!

• Sydney Tower Eye tickets

See also: Sydney Tower Eye Tickets Price

43 – Port Douglas

If you’re looking for a tropical paradise to escape to, look no further than Port Douglas – a warm and wonderful vacation destination that always flies under the radar.

Located in (far) Far North Queensland, about an hour’s drive from Cairns (along a spectacular scenic coastal drive if you don’t mind!), Port Douglas is a little slice of heaven with stunning beaches, lush rainforest, and crystal-clear waters – all set against the backdrop of the majestic Great Barrier Reef.

With a population of just over 3000 people, this quiet town is the perfect place to relax and soak up the natural beauty that surrounds it.

Spend your days swimming, snorkelling, diving, and kayaking in the reef’s warm waters; hiking through the Daintree Rainforest; or strolling along Four Mile Beach, but there are many other fun things in Port Douglas .

In the evening, retire to one of Port Douglas’ many charming restaurants and cafes for a delicious dinner of fresh seafood before enjoying a cocktail or two at one of the town’s lively and always-friendly bars.

• Tours & Activities in Port Douglas

44 – Taronga Zoo

There’s no denying that Taronga Zoo is one of Sydney’s most popular tourist attractions , and for good reason too!

Home to over 4000 animals from more than 350 species – from Sumatran tigers to sun bears and the adorable Goodfellow’s Tree Kangaroo – the zoo offers a wonderful day out for the whole family with plenty of things to see and do, not to mention the beautiful 10-minute ferry trip from the Sydney CBD which dishes up great views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge en route.

The highlights for many include coming face-to-face with some of Australia’s most iconic animals such as kangaroos, koalas, and Tasmanian devils in their natural habitats; getting up close and personal with elephants, giraffes, and gorillas at the animal encounters; taking the Sky Safari cable car ride for aerial views of the zoo (Sydney’s only cable car; and enjoying a delicious meal or snack in one of the many restaurants or cafes.

Hot tip: the all-day parking rate is $22, so consider ditching the car for the day and hopping on the Circular Quay ferry instead.

• Taronga Zoo tickets

45 – Nambung National Park

Encompassing the entire Pinnacles Desert (see #34), an otherworldly landscape of limestone pillars (some reaching up to 12 metres high) that were formed over millions of years by wind and water erosion plus a whole lot more, Nambung National Park – 2 hours drive north of Perth – is a must-visit for any nature lover visiting Western Australia .

Beyond the limestone towers, the area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and snakes, glorious beaches including the likes of Kangaroo Point and Hangover Bay , and sprawling coastal dune systems.

Kangaroo Point is a great spot for any fishing and boating enthusiasts, while Hangover Bay regularly welcomes bottlenose dolphins and sea lions and is a wonderful spot to whip out the snorkelling gear.

Across the entire 192,000-square-kilometre park, you’ll find close to 100 different campsites, beautiful wildflowers (usually in season from August to November) where the desert comes alive with colour, a plethora of walking trails, and sand dunes to surf down in Lancelin, or simply relax and take in the beauty of the quaint little town of Cervantes.

46 – Dreamworld

A thrill-seeker’s paradise on the sun-kissed Gold Coast (not too far from Movie World, Wet N Wild, and Sea World) and Australia’s largest theme park , Dreamworld is home to a whopping 45 rides, including the country’s tallest and fastest drop ride (the Giant Drop) as well as the refreshing sister park, WhiteWater World, right next door.

In addition to the thrilling rides – make sure to check out the Tower of Terror and The Claw (the most powerful pendulum on the planet) – there’s also plenty to do for those who prefer a more relaxed day out.

You’ll find a long list of live shows and entertainment including Madagascar Live, Belinda’s Bake Off (a koala cooking show), and The Wiggles’ Wiggly Friends Show; wildlife presentations with tigers, koalas, crocodiles and more, and plenty of appearances from family-favourite characters like Shrek and Gloria the Hippo.

Meanwhile, over at WhiteWater World, you can cool off on one of 16 different water slides – some heart-racing, some timider – or take it easy floating down the Lazy River.

• Dreamworld tickets

47 – Art Gallery of New South Wales

Culture vultures, listen up! The Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of the country’s largest and most prestigious art museums , home to Australia’s – and one of the world’s – finest collections of historical and contemporary art, and welcoming artistically-minded guests for close to 150 years

The gallery is spread out in a stunning building within the Sydney Botanical Garden and overlooks the Sydney Harbour. Step inside and you’ll uncover a treasure trove of Australian, Indigenous, and international artworks, with rotating exhibitions on show throughout the year.

Some of the must-sees include Frederick McCubbin ‘s landscape paintings; acclaimed European pieces from Ford Madox Brown , Vincent van Gogh , Auguste Rodin , and Claude Monet ; a strong photography section, and an impressive selection of contemporary art from both Australian and international artists.

Welcoming over a million visitors each year, The Art Gallery of New South Wales is one the best places to visit in Australia for art lovers, with a whopping 40,000 works on display from around the world.

Entry is free for guests and there are also free guided tours available in English every day at 11 am.

48 – Byron Bay

A hippie wonderland full of laid-back locals, stunning beaches, and endless waves, Byron Bay is widely considered one of the best places to visit in Australia for locals and tourists alike.

This small town on the eastern coast – about 2 hours south of Brisbane or 1 hour south of the Gold Coast – has something for everyone , from backpackers looking for a party to families in search of a quiet beach to relax on.

Top attractions include whale watching (September to November), swimming with dolphins (year-round), kayak tours, hiking in the lush rainforest that surrounds the town, checking out the colourful street art, and simply soaking up the chilled-out vibes on offer.

Byron Bay is also home to some of Australia’s best yoga studios and health retreats – perfect if you’re after a little wellness escape.

• Tours & Activities in Byron Bay

49 – Eureka Skydeck

Perched atop the Eureka Tower – the third-tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere – Melbourne’s Skydeck offers visitors unparalleled 360-degree views of the city and its surrounds, from the glistening waters of Port Phillip Bay to the rolling green hills of the Dandenong Ranges and the MCG, Southbank, the CBD, and everything else in between.

The experience begins as soon as you step into the lift (the doors close and it shoots up at an alarming rate). Once you reach Level 88 – some 300 metres above ground – be prepared to have your breath taken away by panoramic views that seem to go on forever. And don’t forget to pop into the new Voyager VR Theater, the first of its kind in the country.

Hot tip: for a romantic and unbeatable night of fine dining, book a table at Eureka 89; and if you’re looking for a little extra thrill, grab The Edge add-on – a glass-bottom cube that extends out from the side of the building!

• Eureka Skydeck tickets

50 – Australian Outback Spectacular

If there’s one thing Australians know how to do, it’s to throw a good party, and the Australian Outback Spectacular is no exception.

This once-in-a-lifetime show right around the corner from Warner Bros. Movie World on the Gold Coast celebrates all things Australian – from the country’s rugged landscape and outback culture to its world-famous icons – and does so with aplomb, mixing humour, music, dance, animals, light-hearted theatricality, and state-of-the-art projection special effects to tell the dramatic tale of two struggling Aussie farmers.

The just-under-two-hour show is set in a purpose-built arena (think 360 degrees of big screens and live action), with a three-course dinner served in traditional Aussie Outback style : think juicy eye fillet steak or a tender chicken breast (plus vegetarian options).

All up, it’s a night of entertainment that’s sure to leave you feeling bloody festive and fair dinkum patriotic.

51 – Darwin

Vastly different in climate, atmosphere and culture to the major east coast cities, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Darwin , a must-visit for those wanting to get off the beaten track and explore Australia’s Top End.

Situated on the northern coast, this vibrant and multicultural city is home to some of the country’s most interesting history (including a bloody chapter during World War II), as well as a wealth of natural attractions, from thundering waterfalls and plunging gorges to vast wetlands and rugged bushland – and, of course, endless dry and dusty outback just around the corner.

Make no mistake; while Darwin is small, its list of top things to do is mighty. The crowd favourites include exploring Kakadu National Park – one of the largest national parks in the world equal to nearly half the size of Switzerland – driving the stunning Arnhem Highway, spotting crocodiles on a wildlife cruise down the Adelaide River ;

Visiting the 200 specialty stores and food vendors at the wonderful Mindil Beach Sunset Markets (held between April and October) where you can sample delicious local cuisine and try delicacies like kangaroo and crocodile, or simply soaking up the tropical air and admiring the views from one of the city’s many rooftop bars .

• Tours & Activities in Darwin

52 – Fraser Island

The largest sand island in the world , Fraser Island is a must-see for anyone travelling to Queensland.

This incredible place is home to rainforests, crystal-clear creeks and rivers, rugged cliffs, sparkling lakes, and miles upon miles of unspoilt white sand beaches – making it the perfect spot for nature lovers , adventure seekers, and those after a little bit of paradise.

Fraser Island can be explored on foot, by car (four-wheel drive only), or by boat; and with so much to see and do , it’s best to allow at least a few days to truly take it all in.

Get behind the wheel, top-down for a cruise along 75 Mile Beach, tackle one of the many rainforest trails, gear up for a mountain biking adventure, or set up camp for one of the most spectacular nights of stargazing the east coast has to offer.

• Tours & Activities in Fraser Island

53 – Tasmania

Often forgotten because of its isolation off the mainland, but only to the detriment of those who do so, Tasmania is one of Australia’s most beautiful and diverse states .

Blessed with a cooler climate, stunning landscapes, kangaroos all over the joint, and a rich history and culture, Tasmania is well worth the visit for those looking to explore beyond the beaten track .

From the vibrant capital city of Hobart – home to some of Australia’s best restaurants, galleries (don’t miss the MONA), and markets, not to mention the views from Mount Wellington – to the wilds of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and the UNESCO-listed convict sites in Launceston , there’s plenty on offer for visitors no matter what their interests.

Hot tip; Check out our full list of fun things to do in Hobart, Tasmania .

For those after an outdoor adventure , Tasmania offers everything from hiking and camping to kayaking, fishing, caving, and diving; while foodies will love discovering the delicious local produce (including cheese, whisky, and salmon) and sampling some of the best wine in the country.

Picture-perfect Wineglass Bay can’t be missed, likewise the eerie beauty of Port Arthur, a former convict settlement.

• Tours & Activities in Tasmania

So there you have it; 53 reasons to visit Australia ! Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a bit of relaxation and good food and wine, we promise you won’t be disappointed. As the locals say, g’day mate!

Final thoughts:

When it comes to places to visit in Australia , there’s certainly no shortage in this enormous, sun-drenched, laid-back nation. But these are just some of the highlights. With such a diverse range of landscapes, cities, and experiences, there really is something for everyone Down Under. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Aussie adventure today!

Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below. And, of course, as always, happy travels!

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50 Of The Best Places To Visit In Australia In 2024

By Jessica Best 17th Dec 2023

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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 2023, 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. 

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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
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• Brisbane's Best Hotels

Image credit: Ben Carless | Unsplash

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• Think about interspersing your trips to the most famous cities and landmarks with visits to less famous gems hidden away in the vastness of Australia.
• Australia, beaches, and outdoor living are almost synonymous so let’s start with swimming and snorkelling. When it comes to year-round swimming, serviced lodges and rooms at the Bayview Coral Bay and glamping at the Sal Salis in Exmouth are bookable through KAYAK and perfectly located within walking distance of a beach, local bars, and cafés. Snorkellers should consider a day trip to the Nigaloo Reef at Turquoise Bay, the only place a living coral reef is accessible directly from the beach.
• Here’s a tip for surfers, take a look at Noosa Shire just up the coast from Brisbane, surfers flock to Noosa’s mainly unspoilt beaches for some of the best surfing in Australia, including from beaches within the Noosa National Park. Check out Noosa hotels bookable through KAYAK, including Skipper’s Cove Waterfront Resort. However, if you are thinking of visiting in March, book your accommodation well in advance, as March is when the area fills up for the Noosa Festival of Surfing.
• Don’t forget to include some of Australia’s many islands when planning your trip to Oz. Let’s start with the Whitsunday Islands and especially Whitehaven Beach, often voted the best beach in the world. Book accommodation on one of the other Whitsunday Islands – check out the Barefoot Lodge on nearby Hamilton Island if you are on a budget, or splash out on the deluxe Palm Bay Resort on Long Island. Both are bookable through KAYAK.
• If you’re looking for a cheap hotel in Australia, you should consider visiting during the low season. You'll find cheaper accommodations in Australia in May and October.
• Hotel room prices vary depending on many factors but you’ll most likely find the best hotel deals in Australia if you stay on a Sunday. The opposite is true for, Saturday, which is usually the most expensive day.
• Book at least 50 days before your stay begins to get the best price for your Australia accommodation.
• The cheapest 3-star hotel room in Australia found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks was $17, while the most expensive was $5,435.
• How long should you stay? KAYAK users usually book their accommodation in Australia for 6 days.

FAQs when booking a hotel in Australia

Apart from going to the beach, what do visitors to australia get up to.

Let’s start with wine tasting and fine dining  – get to know the Hunter Valley, home to some of Australia’s most well-established vineyards. Book your accommodation through KAYAK and you can choose anything from a tree-top cabin in the Barington Tops Wilderness to a five-star hotel such as the Tonic Hotel in Rothbury – KAYAK has nearly 1,000 accommodation suggestions for the Hunter Valley region so there is something for everyone. Many of the picturesque towns have their own food and wine festivals to check dates before booking.

Is Australia all about sport, beaches and being outdoors?

No, not at all. Australia is also home to wonderful art, opera, fashion and street culture. Think about spending time in Sydney, possibly by booking a stay at the Shangri-La Sydney through KAYAK. It is just five minutes’ walk from the Museum of Modern Art and its rooms offer spectacular views out over the harbour. Melbourne is sometimes called the cultural capital of Australia, thanks to its distinctive architecture, many theatres and festivals, stunning art galleries and vibrant café culture. Fraser Place Hotel is right in the heart of the theatre district and within walking distance of the central station.

Is it possible to have a desert experience in Australia?

Although visitors are not encouraged to drive off into the desert by themselves, there are many desert tours, usually in sturdy 4WD vehicles driven by experienced guides. Or for a real desert experience, how about booking a stay in quirky Coober Pedy through KAYAK? The famous Desert Cave Hotel with cool underground rooms and the quintessentially Ossie Mud Hut Motel are both bookable through KAYAK.

What is the most popular destination in Australia?

Based on KAYAK hotel searches, the most popular destination is Sydney (39% of total searches to Australia). The next most popular destinations are Melbourne (31%) and Brisbane (16%). Searches for hotels in Surfers Paradise (14%) are also popular.

What are the most popular regions of Australia?

Based on KAYAK hotel searches, the most popular region to stay in Australia is New South Wales . Queensland and Victoria are also very popular.

How much is a cheap hotel in Australia?

KAYAK users have found double rooms in Australia for as cheap as $23 ( Launceston ) in the last 3 days. The average price is $283.

How much is a hotel in Australia for tonight?

In the last 72 hours, users have found Australia hotels for tonight for as low as $25 ( Launceston ). Users have also found 3-star hotels from $80 ( Launceston ) and 4-star+ hotels from $107 ( Launceston ).

How much is a hotel in Australia for this weekend?

In the last 72 hours, users have found Australia hotels for this weekend for as low as $31 ( Broome ) per night. Users have also found 3-star hotels from $79 ( Darwin ) and 4-star+ hotels from $43 ( Canberra ).

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Uluru Aboriginal Tours, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT © Tourism Australia

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Incredible Australian Sites A Lot Of Tourists Never See

Posted: July 4, 2023 | Last updated: July 4, 2023

Unsung Australia

Moreton Island, Queensland

While most people head to Queensland’s coral reef-fringed islands, few head east of the state's capital, Brisbane, to Moreton Island. This vast sand island is a short ferry ride away and packed with natural wonders. You can watch wild bottlenose dolphins and whales (thousands of humpbacks migrate by every June to November), whiz down sand dunes on toboggans and go wreck diving. The rusting wrecks of 15 vessels deliberately sunk to create a breakwall in the Sixties are now alive with colorful coral, tropical fish and curious turtles.  

The Grotto, Victoria

Victoria’s Great Ocean Road is peppered with striking rock formations. While everyone stops to admire the Twelve Apostles and London Arch, many bypass the Grotto. Lying in the limestone cliffs just west of Port Campbell, this unusual geological formation is well worth seeking out. A cave, sinkhole and archway in one, the Grotto can be glimpsed from a viewing platform above, or follow the steps down to sea level. Go at low tide to reach the lowest level, which has the most captivating views of the arch with its rockpools and the ocean framed beyond.

Carnarvon Gorge National Park, Queensland

Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, South Australia

Found near opal-mining town Coober Pedy, this remote and remarkable Aboriginal heritage site is part of the traditional country of the Antakirinja Matuntjara Yankunytjatjara people. The arid, sweeping and rocky landscape, which was once covered by an inland sea, is utterly entrancing. Go at sunrise or sunset to see the reds, oranges and whites at their most vivid. It’s hard to believe anything lives here but the area is home to a variety of native flora and fauna: keep a lookout for red kangaroos, wallaroos, echidnas and fat-tailed dunnarts as you explore.

The Bogey Hole, New South Wales

While most people have a dip in Sydney's ocean pools on their must-do list, not many know about Newcastle's incredible Bogey Hole. Not only is it a stunning spot for a swim but it’s thought to be the earliest known example of a purpose-built ocean swimming pool in Australia. It was hand carved by convicts on a rocky platform in 1819 for the personal use of the Commandant of Newcastle, Major James Morisset. The free-to-use Bogey Hole pool lies at the foot of Shepherds Hill and is heritage listed.

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Montague Island, New South Wales

It’s the second largest island in the state but not many locals, let alone tourists, have made it over to Montague Island. Just offshore Narooma on the southern coast, the protected nature reserve is home to a large colony of seals, little penguins and nesting seabirds. Whales, dolphins and turtles also frequent its waters. September to November is the time to see the humpbacks on their way past, but the island’s craggy landscape and historic lighthouse and keeper’s quarters make it an impressive place to visit year-round.  

Undara Volcanic National Park, Queensland

Walk inside ancient lava tubes, said to be the largest in the world, in this under-the-radar national park southwest of Cairns. The tubes at Undara, which means “long way”, formed about 190,000 years ago when a powerful eruption caused lava to flow into dry riverbeds. The outer layer eventually cooled and formed a crust, while the molten lava below drained and left behind a series of hollow tubes. Large caves such as the Archway – Undara's best-known feature – formed in places along them. The tubes can only be accessed on guided tours.

Gippsland Lakes, Victoria

A sprawling network of inland waterways, the Gippsland Lakes aren’t one of Victoria’s best-known tourist attractions, but they should be. Covering more than 232 square miles (600sq/km), together they create the largest inland waterway in the country and are a hive of activity, offering everything from fishing and boating to wildlife spotting (Raymond Island has a large population of wild koalas). Just over the dunes lies another of East Gippsland's stunning sights – the magnificent oceanfront Ninety Mile Beach. 

Flinders Island, Tasmania

Found off the northeastern tip of Tasmania in the Bass Strait, Flinders Island has a startling and wild beauty. Home to just 1,000 people, it is one of the 52-strong Furneaux Group of islands, which once formed a land bridge between mainland Australia and the island state. It’s known locally for its incredible seafood (abalone, scallops and crayfish particularly) and untouched landscapes, but beyond Tassie few have visited the jagged isle that rises out of the wild waters, with its hulking granite mountains and giant rocky outcrops ablaze with orange lichen.

Blackdown Tableland National Park, Queensland

The traditional home of the Ghungalu people, this national park on the northeastern edge of central Queensland’s sandstone belt is a real find, especially on a hot day (of which there are many here). Sprinkled with waterfalls, gaping gorges and secret springs, along with heathlands and dry eucalypt forests, it has some excellent bushwalks. The track to Gudda Gumoo gorge (Rainbow Waters) is a belter – a pit stop at the idyllic and cooling rock pool is ample reward after a steep stairway descent into the gorge. Look for the rainbow that often dances in the water as it flows down the sandstone ledges.

The Tarkine, Tasmania

An ancient remnant of supercontinent Gondwana, the Tarkine is also the largest temperate rainforest in Australia. This vast and tranquil swath of myrtle, leatherwood and pine tree forest cloaks Tasmania’s northwest. The Tarkine also has mountain ranges and a wild river, as well as cave systems, buttongrass moorlands and an untouched coastline where sandy beaches, grassy woodland and coastal heath await intrepid hikers. Home to the Tasmanian Aboriginal Tarkiner people for 40,000 years, the landscape has many sites of archaeological significance too, including ancient hut and campfire sites and massive shell middens.

Croajingolong National Park, Victoria

Set on Victoria’s wild and beautiful East Gippsland coast, Croajingolong is one of the state’s largest parks but remains little-known. Along with walks on footprint-free white sand beaches to rocky headlands, it has trails that run inland through eucalypt forest, rainforest, heathland and up peaks for stunning views across the coast including to the Skerries. These little rocky islands are packed with Australian fur seals and little penguins. Home to some stunningly situated and gloriously isolated coastal campsites, it’s a wonderful place to escape.

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Cape Pillar, Tasmania

Strike a route via the Old Cape Pillar track or along the Three Capes Track and you’ll reach Tasmania’s most southeasterly tip, where the southern hemisphere’s tallest sea cliffs can be found. Cape Pillar, part of the Tasman Peninsula, can only be accessed on foot or by boat. The narrow track winds through forest and moorland before opening out to the cape where its wind-buffeted sheer walls of dolerite rock soar around 984 feet (300m) above the frothing ocean. Lonely Tasman Island with its old lighthouse looms just offshore.

Umpherston Sinkhole, South Australia

The Big Drift, Victoria

Walls of China, New South Wales

A striking sand and clay formation known as the Walls of China is one of many geological wonders found in far-flung Mungo National Park, located in the arid northwest of New South Wales. The lunettes stretches for 17 miles (30km) in a crescent around the eastern arc of the park’s eponymous ancient dry lakebed, where the oldest human remains found in Australia were excavated along with 20,000-year-old footprints. It was sculpted by wind and erosion and is one of the park’s most arresting moonscape-esque features.

Naracoorte Caves, South Australia

South Australia’s Limestone Coast area is pocked with sinkholes and caves, including this gaping network that forms the Australian Fossil Mammal Sites World Heritage Area and the Riversleigh fossil site in far northwest Queensland. It has a rich fossil record of the ancient animals that roamed the area – its vertebrate fossils span several ice ages, the arrival of humans in the area and the extinction of Australia’s megafauna roughly 60,000 years ago. Four of the 28 known Naracoorte caves are open to the public.

These are the awesome Australian places you can't visit

Quinkan rock art, Queensland

Fascinating age-old archives and survival stories etched on immense sandstone escarpments and in caves by the Kuku Yalanji people lie hidden in the country around Laura in Cape York. There are said to be tens of thousands of rock art sites here, many utterly inaccessible. The Split Rock site is the only one you can visit without a guide. Go on a guided tour to access others, such as a long shelter known as the Magnificent Gallery which is covered with large and vibrant pre-historic paintings. 

Lawn Hill Gorge, Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park

Translating to Rainbow Serpent Country in the local Indigenous language, Boodjamulla gorge cuts a snake-like green ribbon through the parched outback landscape of remote northwest Queensland. Paddle along the middle and upper gorges by canoe: look for lounging freshwater crocs on the cabbage-palm lined banks and gaze up at the awe-inspiring fiery cliffs. Refresh at idyllic Indarri Falls. For the best views, set out on the steep walk up to Island Stack, high up on Middle Gorge. Go early to watch the sun slink up over gorge.

Capertee Valley, New South Wales

Bioluminescence, Jervis Bay, New South Wales

Most people head to Jervis Bay for its brilliant white sands and gin-clear waters, but those lucky enough to visit at night at the right time will be entranced by a magical night-time glow. The sheltered beaches on this part of New South Wales’ southern coast have had dazzling displays of bioluminescence – a phenomenon produced by insects and sea creatures – in recent years. It’s notoriously hard to predict but the warmer months are generally the best time to see the ocean glow blue, green and even red.

Mount Conner, Northern Territory

Flat-topped sandstone Mount Conner rises dramatically out of the red dirt like its better-known counterpart, Uluru. So much so that it's also been dubbed Fool-uru. Once part of a mountain range, the mesa rises 984 feet (300m) and is known as Artilla or Atila by the Pitjantjatjara people, who believe it to be the home of icemen who create cold weather. The tabletop mountain lies within the vast Curtin Springs Station, so can only be seen from afar or visited on a pre-arranged private tour.

Dirk Hartog Island, Western Australia

Maguk waterfall and pool, Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory

Given this Top End park is half the size of Switzerland, it's no surprise that Kakadu has endless secret spots. One of its most magical and less visited water features is Maguk or Barramundi Gorge. Only accessible during the dry season, it’s reached along a track that meanders through a monsoon forest, along a sandy creek and up and over jagged rocks. At the center of the gorge lies an enticing swimming hole surrounded by steep walls and fed by a trickling waterfall. The Maguk Walk is found an hour drive south of Cooinda.

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Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks, Western Australia

Lake Gairdner, South Australia

Gantheaume Point, Western Australia

Find dinosaur footprints in reef rock at the bottom of this remarkable red rock promontory that protrudes into the Indian Ocean near Broome. These large and perfectly preserved marks, which can only be seen at very low tide, have been here for over 125 million years. It feels as if little has changed in that time in this remote and wild part of the Kimberley coastline. A trail of prints lies scattered around the coast near Broome, with some of the better preserved sauropod trails lying on the other side of Roebuck Bay.

Canberra District Wine Region, Australian Capital Territory

Chambers Pillar, Northern Territory

Wolfe Creek Crater, Western Australia

Pretty much perfectly circular, this gaping hole is the second largest crater in the world where fragments of a meteorite have been collected. Lying south of remote settlement Halls Creek in the Great Sandy Desert, the explosion crater has a diameter of 2,887 feet (880m) and is 197 feet (60m) deep. Thought to have been created around 300,000 years ago, the crater has been well preserved because of its desert setting. You can walk around its rim or take an aerial tour from Halls Creek for the most dramatic views.

Now learn the extraordinary stories behind Australia's World Heritage Sites

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Virgin Australia’s huge win against airlines from around the world

Virgin Australia has just taken out a huge award for the sixth time in a row. It was up against airlines from around the world.

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Virgin Australia has won best cabin crew for the sixth year in a row.

The Aussie airline was up against more than 350 carriers from around the world to take out the prestigious title in the Airline Excellence Awards for 2024.

Presented annually by leading aviation ratings website, AirlineRatings.com, the awards are judged by editors with more than 200 years of combined aviation experience.

Virgin Australia CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka said she was thrilled to see the Virgin Australia cabin crew team recognised once again in the awards.

“One of the joys of working for an airline is hearing the extraordinary stories right across our network of our crew going the extra mile in their service, and it is that signature flair that each individual brings that makes flying with Virgin Australia so special,” Ms Hrdlicka said.

“This award comes as no surprise as it is a true reflection of our incredible cabin crew who work hard every day to consistently deliver the service we are known and loved for, and winning this award for an incredible sixth time in a row is wonderful recognition of our team.”

AirlineRatings.com Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas said the Aussie airline’s commitment to passengers is “quite outstanding” and is a benchmark of what cabin service should be across the industry.

“This service extends to the ground staff, where the standards are just as high,” he added.

“Virgin Australia cabin crew are always being mentioned positively in passenger feedback.”

For rankings, the editors of AirlineRatings.com, combine international industry and government audits, with another 11 key criteria that include fleet age, passenger review ratings, investment rating, and key product offerings to arrive at a ranking.

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Added to that, the editors monitor passenger feedback as well as personal experience.

It comes as Qatar Airways was named the winner of Best Catering, while Emirates took out the title for best in-flight entertainment.

On April 9, the Best Cabin Classes – First, Business, Premium Economy and Economy, will be named, while the overall Airline of the Year will drop on April 30.

They’re obviously no comparison to business class flat-lay seats but you can definitely tell the difference with the premium seats.

An Aussie dad and husband has justified flying in business class while his wife and three kids fly economy.

Thousands of travellers are expected to move through the nation's busiest airport in the next 24 hours.