Our Australia Travel Guide features the best places to visit across the continent and its neighboring islands. Keep reading to discover what to do in Australia on your next trip down under.
Australia and its neighboring regions offer some of the most diverse and exciting travel experiences on the planet. From bustling cities to stunning natural wonders, there’s something for every traveler. In this guide, we’ll explore what to do in Australia, along with the best places in New Zealand, Fiji, and other nearby islands. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or someone looking to relax by the beach, this guide has something for you.
G’Day, Australia: Discover the Land Down Under
Sydney: Iconic Sights and Coastal Delights
Sydney is a must-visit city in Australia. Start with the iconic Sydney Opera House, an architectural marvel where you can catch a performance or enjoy the view of the Sydney Harbour. Take a walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge for stunning vistas of the city and the harbour. Bondi Beach is a surfer’s paradise, perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean; you can enjoy the sun, surf, and vibrant beach culture. For a unique experience, try the Bondi Beach to Coogee coastal walk while you’re in New South Wales. This stretch offers spectacular views and hidden beaches.
The local food scene is diverse and exciting. Don’t miss out on fresh seafood, especially at the Sydney Fish Market. Enjoy a meat pie from a local bakery or dine at one of the many multicultural restaurants offering everything from Thai to Italian cuisine. Events like the Sydney Festival and Vivid Sydney light up the city with art, music, and dazzling light displays.
For a day trip, head to the Blue Mountains for breathtaking scenery and hiking trails, or visit the Hunter Valley for wine tasting and gourmet food. The Blue Mountains offer stunning lookouts, waterfalls, and the famous Three Sisters rock formation. In the Hunter Valley, join a wine tour and sample some of Australia’s finest wines.
The best time to visit most regions of Australia is during their spring and autumn. These shoulder seasons are usually mild and sunny, and international flights are more affordable than in the summer.
Melbourne: Arts, Culture, and Coffee
Melbourne is popular for its vibrant arts scene and coffee culture. Visit Federation Square, where you can explore galleries, museums, and enjoy a variety of cafés. The Royal Botanic Gardens provide idyllic settings for walks, featuring landscaped gardens and peaceful lakes. Queen Victoria Market is a bustling hub where you can find fresh produce, unique souvenirs, and delicious street food.
The city’s food scene is diverse, but it has a strong emphasis on brunch spots and coffee. Enjoy a flat white at a local café or indulge in a hearty brunch. Many restaurants offer modern Australian cuisine alongside international flavors.
Events like the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and the Australian Open bring the city to life with entertainment and excitement. For those interested in sports, catching a game of Australian Rules Football at the Melbourne Cricket Ground is also a must.
Enjoy a road trip along the Great Ocean Road for one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world along Australia’s East Coast. Marvel at the Twelve Apostles, limestone stacks rising from the ocean. Phillip Island is also nearby and offers a unique experience with wildlife, such as watching the penguin parade. Another great day trip is to the Yarra Valley, known for its wineries, breweries, and gourmet food.
Brisbane: River City Adventures
In Brisbane, explore South Bank, a vibrant area with parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Take a climb up the Story Bridge for panoramic views of the city, or visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to cuddle a koala and see other native Australian animals. The city’s food scene offers a mix of fresh seafood, Asian cuisine, and modern Australian dishes. Don’t miss trying Moreton Bay bugs (a type of lobster) or visiting Eat Street Northshore for a variety of food stalls offering delicious bites from around the world.
Brisbane Festival and Riverfire are popular events that showcase the city’s culture and vibrant spirit. The festival features art, music, and performances, culminating in Riverfire, a spectacular fireworks display over the Brisbane River.
The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast are perfect for a day trip with beautiful beaches, theme parks, and attractions. The Gold Coast is popular for its surf beaches and nightlife, while the Sunshine Coast offers a more relaxed atmosphere with charming coastal towns and natural beauty.
Perth: Sunsets and the Swan River
Across the country in Western Australia sits Perth. The best places to go in this city include Kings Park, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, offering stunning views of the city and Swan River. Explore the historic Fremantle area with its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, vibrant markets, and lively arts scene. A trip to Rottnest Island is a must, where you can meet the adorable quokkas, small marsupials known for their friendly nature and photogenic smiles.
Sample the region’s seafood and wines from nearby regions like Margaret River. Perth’s dining scene includes everything from beachside fish and chips to fine dining with a focus on local produce. The Perth Festival and Sculpture by the Sea are major events that attract visitors from all over.
Day trips to the Swan Valley for wine tasting or the Pinnacles Desert for unique landscapes are highly recommended. The Swan Valley is Western Australia’s oldest wine region, offering a variety of wineries, breweries, and gourmet experiences. The Pinnacles Desert, located in Nambung National Park, features thousands of limestone pillars rising from the sand, creating an out-of-this-world landscape.
The best time to visit is in Australia’s winter and spring. You can see whales off the coast of Western Australia from May to December.
Adelaide: Foodie Heaven and Wildlife Wonders
Adelaide boasts the bustling Adelaide Central Market, where you can find a wide range of fresh produce, gourmet foods, and local delicacies. Glenelg Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying seaside cafés. The Adelaide Botanic Garden is a serene escape with beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
The local food scene features fresh produce and excellent wines from nearby regions like the Barossa Valley. Try local specialties such as South Australian prawns, King George whiting, and Shiraz wine. Adelaide is also known for its vibrant restaurant scene, offering a mix of contemporary and traditional dishes.
Don’t miss the Adelaide Fringe, the world’s second-largest annual arts festival, and WOMADelaide, a music and arts festival celebrating cultural diversity. These events bring the city to life with performances, music, and art from around the world.
Explore the Barossa Valley for wine or Kangaroo Island for wildlife and natural beauty. The Barossa Valley is famous for its Shiraz and has many wineries, gourmet food producers, and charming villages. Kangaroo Island, off the coast, is a haven for wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, sea lions, and a variety of bird species. If you would like to take a road trip around the outback instead, be sure to check out Alice Springs!
National Parks in Australia: Nature’s Masterpieces
Australia’s national parks are incredible and diverse. Kakadu National Park offers a glimpse into Aboriginal culture, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Discover ancient rock art, cruise through wetlands teeming with birdlife, and spot crocodiles in their natural habitat.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is famous for its stunning red rock formations. Witness the changing colors of Uluru at sunrise or sunset, and explore the rock domes of Kata Tjuta on scenic walks. The cultural significance of this area to the Anangu people adds a profound dimension to your visit.
The Great Barrier Reef is a world-renowned diving and snorkeling destination on the East Coast of Australia. Be sure to check out the beautiful Whitsunday Islands on your way out to the reef. On the west coast, you’ll find Ningaloo Reef, a smaller but magical coral reef. Explore the vibrant underwater world filled with colorful coral, tropical fish, and marine life. Whether you choose to snorkel, dive, or take a scenic flight, both the Great Barrier Reef and Ningaloo Reef offer unforgettable experiences.
Kiwi Adventure: Discover New Zealand
North Island: Geothermal Wonders and Urban Excitement
In New Zealand’s North Island, visit the Auckland Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. The magical Hobbiton movie set in Matamata brings the world of The Lord of the Rings to life. The Bay of Islands offers beautiful beaches, sailing, and opportunities to see dolphins and other marine life.
Try local seafood, Māori cuisine, and wines. Don’t miss trying green-lipped mussels, a local delicacy, or experiencing a traditional Māori hangi feast. The Auckland Lantern Festival celebrates Chinese New Year with lanterns, performances, and food stalls. The Wellington Sevens is a rugby tournament known for its festive atmosphere and costumed fans.
Rotorua’s geothermal wonders include bubbling mud pools, geysers, and hot springs. Visit Te Puia to see the famous Pohutu Geyser. This is also one of the best places to go to learn about Māori culture. The Waitomo Caves are famous for their glowworms, which light up the cave ceilings like stars. Make sure to take a boat ride through the caves to witness this magical phenomenon.
South Island: Natural Beauty and Adventure Sports
The South Island features Fiordland National Park, home to the stunning Milford Sound. Take a cruise to see towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife such as seals and dolphins. Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand, offering activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating. The town itself is charming, with excellent restaurants and vibrant nightlife.
Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis with beautiful gardens, river walks, and historic buildings. Enjoy local specialties such as lamb, green-lipped mussels, and regional wines. The Queenstown Winter Festival is a celebration of winter sports, music, and entertainment. The Marlborough Wine & Food Festival showcases the region’s renowned wines and gourmet food.
Milford Sound, with its dramatic scenery, is often described as the eighth wonder of the world. Take a scenic flight or a cruise to fully appreciate its beauty. Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand, offers stunning alpine scenery and excellent hiking opportunities. The Hooker Valley Track is a popular trail that provides breathtaking views of glaciers, rivers, and the iconic Mount Cook.
Fiji Fun: A Tropical Paradise Awaits
Viti Levu: Coral Coast and Cultural Experiences
On Viti Levu, explore the Coral Coast, known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and resorts. Visit Suva, the capital city, to experience Fijian culture, history, and markets. Nadi is home to the famous Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple and the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, which features orchids and tropical plants.
One of the best things to do while traveling is to try local dishes. Local Fijian food includes kokoda, a raw fish salad marinated in coconut milk and citrus, and lovo, a traditional Fijian feast cooked in an earth oven. The Hibiscus Festival in Suva is a lively event with parades, music, and cultural performances. Although the event didn’t happen for the last 5 years, the festival is making its return in August. The Bula Festival in Nadi celebrates Fijian culture with food, music, and dance.
Take day trips to the Mamanuca Islands, a group of small islands offering stunning beaches, snorkeling, and water sports. The Sigatoka Sand Dunes, Fiji’s first national park, features impressive sand dunes, archaeological sites, and hiking trails.
Vanua Levu: Hidden Gems and Underwater Wonders
Vanua Levu is home to the charming town of Savusavu, known for its hot springs, lush surroundings, and friendly locals. Bouma National Heritage Park on Taveuni Island offers beautiful waterfalls, rainforest walks, and birdwatching.
The local cuisine includes Fijian Indian dishes and fresh seafood. Try roti, curry, and seafood delicacies. Savusavu is a great place to experience the relaxed pace of island life and enjoy the local hospitality. Consider day trips to Taveuni Island, known as the Garden Island of Fiji, for its lush landscapes and Rainbow Reef for world-class diving.
Other Nearby Islands: Hidden Treasures of the Pacific
Vanuatu: Volcanic Wonders and Pristine Beaches
In Vanuatu, visit Mount Yasur on Tanna Island, one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes. Champagne Beach on Espiritu Santo Island is famous for its powdery white sand and clear waters. Port Vila, the capital, offers a mix of Melanesian culture, French influence, and beautiful waterfront views.
Try local dishes like laplap, a traditional dish made with grated root vegetables and coconut milk, and fresh seafood. Fest’Napuan is a music festival featuring local and international artists, while the Land Diving Ceremony on Pentecost Island is an incredible cultural experience where men jump from wooden towers with vines tied to their ankles.
Day trips to the Blue Lagoon and Eton Beach are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in pristine surroundings. The Blue Lagoon, with its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings, is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
New Caledonia: French Flair in the South Pacific
New Caledonia features the Isle of Pines, known for its stunning natural beauty, turquoise waters, and towering pine trees. Nouméa, the capital, offers a mix of French and Melanesian cultures, with a vibrant market, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches. The Loyalty Islands showcase untouched landscapes and a rich cultural heritage.
Enjoy French cuisine with local twists, such as bougna, a traditional Melanesian dish cooked in banana leaves, and fresh seafood. Pacific Fair and the Festival of the Yam are major events celebrating local culture, food, and traditions.
Day trips to Amedee Island, with its historic lighthouse and excellent snorkeling, or Blue River Provincial Park, are always a good idea. Blue River Provincial Park is known for its unique flora and fauna. It offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and opportunities to see rare plant and animal species.
Tahiti: Polynesian Paradise
Tahiti is most popular for Bora Bora, known for its overwater bungalows and stunning lagoon, and Moorea, with its dramatic mountains and crystal-clear waters. Papeete, the capital, offers a mix of Polynesian culture, French influence, and lively markets.
Sample French-Polynesian cuisine like poisson cru, a raw fish salad marinated in coconut milk and lime and other tropical fruits like papaya and mango. Heiva i Tahiti, a cultural festival, showcases traditional dance, music, and sports. Tahiti is most known as a surfer’s paradise. The SHISEIDO Tahiti Pro, a major surfing event, attracts top surfers from around the world each year. The 2024 Paris Olympics also held the games’ inaugural surfing competition in Tahiti.
Tetiaroa, once Marlon Brando’s private island, offers pristine beaches, clear waters, and rich marine life. The Fautaua Waterfall, accessible by a scenic hike, is one of Tahiti’s most beautiful natural attractions, featuring a cascading waterfall and lush surroundings.
Your Adventure Awaits
Australia and its neighboring islands offer endless adventures. From city attractions to natural wonders and unique cultural experiences, there are so many options for travelers. Whether you’re exploring the Gold Coast landmarks, diving in Fiji’s clear waters, or hiking New Zealand’s trails, there’s something for everyone.
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