Top 15 must-see places in Australia

Australia’s vastness is staggering! It’s bigger than all the countries in Europe combined and about 32 times larger than the UK.  Spanning nearly 2,500 miles from west to east, covering three different time zones and boasting over 11,000 beaches, how do you even begin to explore a country of this scale?

To help you out, we’ve pulled together 15 of the must-see places from the ‘land down under’ including the magnificent Great Barrier Reef, the awe-inspiring Ayers Rock (Uluru), the tropical paradise of the Whitsunday Islands and the untamed wilderness of Tasmania in our latest travel guide.

Don’t forget, we can help you tailor your own Australian adventure or for inspiration why not check out some of our suggested Australian multi-centre itineraries.

 

Sydney: Opera House & Coastal City Life

To truly explore Australia, a stop in Sydney is a must.  This magical harbour city offers a fabulous blend of culture, unmissable landmarks, and a laid-back beachy lifestyle. With a sunny climate, excellent restaurants, and a buzzing arts scene, it’s easy to see why so many Brits have chosen to call this magnificent city their home.

Sydney’s star attraction is the Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a quintessential emblem of the country.  For the full experience, take a guided tour, including a backstage peek, and try to catch a live performance.  A ride on the Manly Ferry from Circular Quay gives you a great view of the Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the city skyline.

For many, climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a bucket-list experience. The climb involves scaling the bridge’s outer arches and takes about 4 hours and is accessible for most fitness levels.  The bridge also offers a pedestrian walkway and to learn more about its history and engineering you can visit the BridgeClimb Visitor Centre.

For the historic side of the capital, head to The Rocks, one of the country’s earliest European settlements, with its cobblestone lanes, colonial-era architecture and bustling markets. Also explore the Royal Botanic Garden and Taronga Zoo, where you can meet some of Australia’s famous wildlife. It’s interesting to note that around 80% of Australia’s wildlife is unique to the country and can’t be found anywhere else in the world! To experience the city’s coastal spirit, make your way to Bondi Beach – the ultimate surf spot, perfect for relaxing and watching the world go by.

 

Great Barrier Reef: Underwater Wonderland & Coral Spectacle

Spanning more than 1,400 miles along Australia’s north-eastern coast, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most famous underwater wonderlands and hosts an incredible range of marine life. The reef is home to vibrant corals, a huge array of species including dolphins, manta rays, and an abundance of colourful fish such as clownfish and parrotfish. Also keep an eye out for the sea turtles gliding through the water and the occasional reef shark.

Popular gateways for accessing the Great Barrier Reef include Cairns, Port Douglas, Airlie Beach, Townsville, and Hamilton Island. To explore this natural phenomenon, choose from snorkelling or diving day trips or liveaboard cruises which include multiple dive sites, or reef tours. Or if you’d rather stay dry, there are plenty of glass-bottom boat tours or trips in semi-submersibles that provide a unique underwater viewing experience. The surrounding area is almost as stunning as the reef itself, with lush rainforests, pristine sandy islands and pretty coastal towns.

 

Whitsunday Islands: Tropical Paradise & Luxury Resorts

A visit to the Whitsundays promises an idyllic escape of pure R&R during any Australian adventure. This beautiful archipelago boasts pristine beaches and is home to rare green sea turtles that nest in its secluded bays.

Among the 74 islands, only a handful are inhabited.  Popular islands include Hamilton Island, known for its luxury resorts, golf course, and excellent dining; Hayman Island, which offers high-end hotels; Long Island, which has a mix of more affordable options with a relaxed vibe; and South Molle Island, which is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. While some islands are uninhabited for conservation or private use, you can join guided tours and day trips to fully explore their pristine beauty.

 

Ayers Rock (Uluru): Red Desert Giant & Cultural Heritage

Ayers Rock, also known by its Indigenous name Uluru, is a huge red sandstone monolith in the heart of Australia’s outback that is believed to be between 550-600 million years old.   Holding a deep-rooted connection for the local Anangu people, the rock serves as a living testament to their heritage. The Rock’s colours change throughout the day, glowing with fiery reds and oranges at sunrise and sunset, and appearing deep red or brown in the middle of the day.

This colour change is caused by the iron oxide in the rock’s surface, which reacts to the sunlight, creating the jaw-droppingly beautiful display.  To make the most of your visit, we recommend that you join a guided tour with a local expert to learn about its fascinating cultural and geological history.  If you have time, also head to the nearby Kata Tjuta. This geological formation comprises 36-dome shaped hills and also holds deep significance for the local people.

 

Sunshine Coast: Beachside Bliss & Natural Wonders

The Sunshine Coast is located in Queensland, Australia, and stretches along the southeastern coast from the town of Caloundra in the south to Noosa Heads in the north.  The region is perfect for a spot of downtime with beautiful beaches, magnificent natural landscapes, and lovely coastal towns.

When it comes to beaches, you are spoilt for choice. Noosa Main Beach boasts pristine sands and gentle surf, making it perfect for families. Mooloolaba Beach offers a lively atmosphere with its bustling promenade and is great for swimming, dining, and shopping. Coolum Beach has a more relaxed vibe and excellent surf conditions.  Other highlights include the Noosa Everglades, where you can explore the waterways and spot wildlife. Alternatively, climb the scenic Glass House Mountains for panoramic views, or head out on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk to immerse yourself in the subtropical rainforest with its waterfalls and exotic birdlife.

 

Blue Mountains: Outdoor Adventures & Eucalyptus Forests

Just a 1 ½ hour drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer a peaceful retreat away from the lively city buzz. Rather than urban energy, you can expect dramatic landscapes, stunning waterfalls, deep valleys, beautiful panoramas and lovely small towns.

The Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are named after the blue haze that blankets the entire region, created by the thick eucalyptus forests that cover the landscape.  The region is home to several mountains, including Mount Victoria, Mount Tomah, Mount Wilson, Mount Piddington and Mount Hay. However, the most iconic natural attraction is the Three Sisters rock formation.  Made up of three sandstone peaks shaped by erosion and weathering, this natural wonder has been slowly sculpted by nature over millions of years.

The entire area is perfect for outdoorsy types, offering excellent walking trails, canyoning, and awe-inspiring views. The Wentworth Falls track is one of the most popular trails, guiding you through the fragrant forests and along sandstone cliffs, with sweeping views of the Jamison Valley and the majestic Wentworth Falls. For a more relaxed experience, explore the surrounding towns such as Leura, Katoomba, and Mount Wilson, where you’ll find cafes, boutiques, and pretty gardens.

 

Melbourne: Craft Coffee & Culinary Delights

Melbourne is known for its laid-back vibe, with a thriving arts scene and café culture.  Located in the southeastern part of Australia, it sits on the coast along Port Phillip Bay, around 620 miles south of Sydney.

The culinary scene in Melbourne is ever-growing, and you’ll find great restaurants all over the city.  Melbourne has wholeheartedly embraced the rooftop bar scene, offering dazzling views of the city skyline to accompany expertly crafted cocktails. However, the locals’ true passion lies in drinking coffee. The city’s vibrant café culture focuses on high quality and craftsmanship, making the coffee experience a beloved part of everyday city life.

Melbourne’s historic side is still relatively young, however, to experience a slice of the city’s history, head to St Kilda. The area was developed as a seaside resort for wealthy locals during the Victorian era and saw the construction of iconic buildings such as the Palais Theatre and Luna Park, an amusement park. Today, St Kilda has a lovely coastal feel, with beautiful beaches, lively cafes, and a buzzing atmosphere.  Nearby, you can also visit the Royal Botanic Gardens to relax in the serene surroundings of the gardens and lakes, designed by renowned landscape designer William Guilfoyle.

Melbourne is often referred to as the ‘sports capital of Australia’ and is home to venues such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Melbourne Park, where the Australian Open is held.  The MCG is the largest stadium in Australia and hosts cricket and Aussie Rules matches. Even if you don’t manage to catch a game, the MCG offers guided tours that take you behind the scenes, which are great way to learn more about the sport and the stadium itself.

 

Tasmania: Untamed Nature & Rugged Mountains

Tucked away at the southeastern tip of Australia, Tasmania is an island separated from the mainland by the Bass Strait. Its remote location contributes to its unspoiled natural landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich biodiversity. With rugged mountains and unspoilt beaches, Tasmania is a paradise for nature lovers, offering an array of outdoor adventures, including national parks and coastal trails.

Key highlights include Freycinet National Park, known for breath-taking views of Wineglass Bay; Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, home to the iconic Cradle Mountain and diverse wildlife; and Maria Island National Park, featuring stunning cliffs and historic ruins. Tasman National Park is known for its dramatic coastal scenery, unique rock formations including the Three Capes, and popular walking routes such as Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy.

Tasmania is also a foodie haven, boasting numerous vineyards, breweries, and distilleries, often set against spectacular backdrops. Bruny Island is a must-visit for fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, chocolate, and local craft beers. Additionally, Port Arthur on the Tasman Peninsula offers a fascinating insight into Australia’s convict history, with historic buildings and guided tours that bring the past to life.

 

Gold Coast: Beachside Paradise & Adventure hub

The Gold Coast, located in Queensland, is a great place for a few days of lounging by the coast. Surfers Paradise is the heart of the region, known for its legendary beach, nightlife, shopping, and dining. There are several surf schools dotted along its shores, perfect for helping beginners catch their first wave or for seasoned surfers to hone their skills. Nearby, Broadbeach offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still boasting beautiful beaches, excellent dining, and great shopping, while Burleigh Heads is famous for its impressive coastline and national park.   If you’re travelling with little ones, head to Palm Beach with its safe, shallow waters and gentle waves or Coolangatta at the southern end with calm waters and a friendly vibe.

Away from the beaches, Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is a must-visit.  This immersive eco-adventure takes you through lush rainforests via elevated walkways and trails, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls, including the picturesque Curtis Falls.  If you’re looking for some theme park thrills, head to Helensvale to explore the likes of Dreamworld, WhiteWater World, Warner Bros. Movie World, and Sea World.

 

Perth:  Urban Oasis & Happy Quokkas!

The city of Perth is located on the southwestern coast, bordered by the Indian Ocean and intersected by the Swan river. Blending urban life with beachside living, it’s a relaxed, welcoming place with lots of green space and a strong outdoor culture.   Consistently voted as one of the top things to do in Perth, a visit to Kings Park and Botanic Garden is a must.

Boasting magnificent views of the skyline and river, this lush park offers walking routes and beautiful gardens.  Head to Elizabeth Quay for an evening stroll along the waterfront, with lots of entertainment options or for a taste of local wildlife, a trip to Caversham Wildlife Park allows you to get up close with kangaroos and koalas. The historic Fremantle area boasts charming streets, markets, and the intriguing Fremantle Prison that served as a maximum-security prison until its closure in 1991. Lastly, don’t miss a ferry ride to Rottnest Island to relax on pristine beaches and meet the friendly quokkas – apparently the happiest animal on earth!

 

Great Ocean Road: Scenic Route & Iconic Wonders

For those who love a road trip, the Great Ocean Road is an absolute dream.  Stretching 240km along Victoria’s rugged coastline, this iconic windy route offers epic ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and natural wonders at every turn. One of the must-see attractions you’ll encounter along the way is the Twelve Apostles, a stunning series of limestone stacks that sit along the shoreline. The best time to visit is at sunset when the golden light casts a warm glow over the rocks.

If you head to the Gibson steps lookout, you can take the 89 steps down the cliff-face (when open) to view the rockstacks Gog and Magog up close.  Just a few minutes down the road, you’ll find Loch Ard Gorge which boasts a fascinating shipwreck history, a striking beach and yellow-coloured cliffs. Also along the way, you’ll encounter lush rainforests, waterfalls, and pretty seaside towns including Lorne and Apollo Bay.

 

Brisbane: Cute koalas & Laid-back City Life

Brisbane is the beating heart of Queensland and Australia’s third-largest city with a beautiful riverfront, a friendly and relaxed atmosphere and some key attractions to explore. For a great way to see the city, take a river cruise, passing by many of the city’s attractions including the lush South Bank Parklands, the Queensland Art Gallery, the Story Bridge and historic landmarks such as Old Customs House.

For thrill-seekers, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb is a must-do where you’ll be rewarded with great views of the city’s skyline.  For more great views, visit the Mount Coot-tha Lookout just outside of the city. On clear days, you can see the city skyline, the Brisbane River, and the distant mountains. The lookout has a large viewing platform and is particularly popular at sunrise and sunset.

Brisbane offers some great experiences for nature lovers, including the wonderful Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.  Situated slightly outside of the city in a natural setting,  you can meet over 70 amazing animals including the duckbilled platypus, wombat, the Tasmanian devils, kangaroos – and of course, cute and cuddly koalas.

 

The Kimberley: Remote Wilderness & The Bungle Bungle Range

The Kimberley, one of Australia’s largest and most isolated regions, offers epic scenery and a true sense of an off-the-beaten-path adventure.  The region is home to several national parks, such as Purnululu National Park, which features the famous Bungle Bungle range. This UNESCO site features bee-hived shaped domes with distinctive horizontal orange and black stripes that have been formed over millions of years via a process of sedimentation, erosion, and the growth of cyanobacteria.   It’s best explored on foot, on 4WD tours or via a helicopter tour for an incredible perspective of these wonders.

Beyond the Bungle Bungle range, another highlight is the Horizontal Falls. This fascinating spectacle features powerful tidal flows that produce a unique waterfall effect between two narrow cliffs. As the tides rise and fall, water rushes through the gaps, creating horizontal waterfalls that appear to flow sideways. Other ‘best bits’ of the region include the Wolfe Creek Crater, the second-largest meteorite crater in the world; the China Wall, a stunning six-metre-high quartz rock formation; the old Halls Creek town site, which offers a glimpse into the area’s mining history; and the freshwater springs of Palm Springs and Caroline’s Pool, perfect for a refreshing dip.

 

Alice Springs: Northern Territory Outback town

Alice Springs is a ruggedly beautiful outback town that offers an authentic experience of thriving Aboriginal culture. The region is home to a diverse array of Indigenous communities, each with its own language or dialect, including Arrernte, the traditional language of Alice Springs. This town serves as a gateway to the incredible landscapes of the MacDonnell Ranges, with their breath-taking gorges, ancient rock formations, and unique wildlife.

Alice Springs is also home to various cultural attractions, including art galleries showcasing Indigenous artwork, various Aboriginal culture museums, traditional workshops including bush tucker or weaving, and the Telegraph Station which highlights the town’s role in Australia’s communication history.  A highlight for many is the Kangaroo Sanctuary, where guided sunset tours offer an intimate encounter with these legendary animals, and a chance to feed baby kangaroos and hold joeys.

 

Fraser Island (K’Gari): Pristine beaches & Diverse Wildlife

Fraser Island, now officially known by its Indigenous name of K’Gari, is the largest sand island in the world. Located off the eastern coast of Queensland, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site known and a true paradise for nature lovers.

Dive into one of the 100 crystal-clear freshwater lakes such as Lake McKenzie where the water is so clear you can see the bottom. Or head to one of the pristine beaches including 75-mile beach (yes, it is actually 75 miles long!) where you’ll find one of the island’s most famous landmarks: the Maheno Shipwreck.  Guided tours allow you to walk around the rusted remains of the ship which has been partially buried in the sand since it was washed up onto the shore in 1935.

When it comes to wildlife encounters you can expect to see dingoes, kangaroos, and an array of bird species. The island is also a prime spot for whale watching during the humpback whale migration season between July and November.

 

With such a huge range of places to explore and the sheer scale of the country, it’s almost impossible to fully cover every highlight in one trip to Australia. To help you with this delightful dilemma, we hope our travel guide has helped!  Don’t forget, you can also check out our selection of Australian multi-centre itineraries for more inspiration or chat to one of our expert travel advisers who are on hand to help you plan, create and organise the Australian holiday of your dreams.