Australia is a continent-sized country with stunning natural beauty and a sense of vastness that defies imagination. It’s the most geologically stable country sitting squarely in the middle of a tectonic plate. Sparse population allows for numerous underrated destinations to explore without the crowds, making it a haven for those who crave wild and unspoiled nature experiences. Moreover, the food and coffee culture has evolved into a remarkable scene of its own, and with numerous national parks, there's no shortage of incredible landscapes to explore.
Why you’ll love Australia!
Thriving cities
Experience the vibrant city life in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane. Enjoy dining, bustling markets, and iconic architecture like the Sydney Opera House. These cities perfectly blend outdoor lifestyle with urban sophistication.
Adventure galore
For adrenaline junkies and outdoor enthusiasts, Australia is a playground. Surf the waves, dive with sharks, or skydive over the desert.
Unique wildlife
Home to the kangaroo, koala, and other exotic species, seeing Australia's wildlife in their natural habitat is unparalleled. The opportunity to snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef with its vivid marine life is an unforgettable experience.
Stunning beaches
Australia boasts some of the world's most beautiful beaches. There are more than 10,000 beaches in all of Australia and you can find everything from popular surf spots like Bondi Beach to secluded slices of paradise such as Wineglass Bay in Tasmania.
Epic landscapes
Journey through diverse landscapes – from the red sands of the Outback to the lush Daintree Rainforest. Australia offers stunning vistas that beg to be photographed and remembered.
Guide to the major cities in Australia
Australia's major cities are so vastly spread across the continent that they span multiple time zones. Most of the central land is an arid desert, which is why you’ll typically find the bustling urban centers along the coastlines, where geography and climate are more conducive to large populations and diverse activities. Let’s look at Australia’s major cities
Sydney, Australia's largest city, amazes with its stunning harbor and iconic landmarks. Enjoy its world-class dining, rich cultural tapestry, and vibrant beach culture, including the famous Bondi Beach. It’s an expensive city with great quality of life and plethora of activities. Explore the historic Rocks district or attend one of the many festivals that animate this dynamic metropolis throughout the year.
Often dubbed Australia's cultural capital, Melbourne is renowned for its art, music, and fashion scenes. It's maze of hidden laneways and street art, together with its coffee culture and diverse dining options, draw visitors and locals alike. Sports enthusiasts can catch a game at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground.
As the capital of Queensland, known as ‘The Sunshine State’, Brisbane has a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round. It's less crowded than Sydney or Melbourne but still offers a cosmopolitan experience, with a burgeoning arts scene, new boutique hotels, and outdoor adventures. South Bank Parklands and the Brisbane River offer ample space for relaxation and activities.
Isolated yet vibrant, Perth sits where the Swan River meets the west coast. Its relaxed pace combines with beautiful beaches, public gardens, and a booming food scene. Don't miss a trip to nearby Rottnest Island to meet the adorable quokka or enjoy the sunset from Cottesloe Beach. Perth is also so far from all major cities in Australia that it’s actually closer to Bali than Sydney!
Cairns is a gateway to Australia's Great Barrier Reef and is a tropical paradise. This laid-back city boasts a waterfront esplanade lined with bars and restaurants, and the nearby Daintree Rainforest. Whether you're going diving, hiking, or simply soaking up the sun, Cairns offers a memorable experience for all.
Known for its festivals, food, and wine, Adelaide is a city that loves to celebrate. It’s one of the best places to stay in Australia and is surrounded by renowned wine regions like the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. Enjoy the vibrant Central Market, the bustling Rundle Mall, or relax in the city's many parks and gardens.
Darwin is the multicultural capital of the Northern Territory, offering a gateway to incredible natural wonders like Kakadu National Park. Its tropical climate, waterfront dining, and rich Indigenous culture make it a unique and dynamic place to explore.
The charming capital of Tasmania, Hobart, offers a blend of heritage, scenery, and a growing arts scene. Its unique geography and cool climate are ideal for producing some of Australia's finest food and wine. Visit the famous MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), take a harbor cruise, or explore the scenic beauty of nearby Mount Wellington and the Huon Valley.
Once in a lifetime experiences in Australia
The Great Ocean Road
Wind along the dramatic coastline of Victoria on one of the world's most scenic drives. The 240-kilometer stretch takes you past rugged cliffs, towering rock stacks, and breathtaking beaches. You’ll get to see the Twelve Apostles, limestone stacks and may even spot whales during migration season.
Uluru
No trip to Australia is complete without visiting the spiritual heart of the country. The massive sandstone monolith of Uluru (Ayers Rock) is an awe-inspiring sight at both sunrise and sunset. It’s sacred to the indigenous Anangu people, who offer tours to teach visitors about their culture and the land's history. Surrounding the rock, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is also home to an abundance of unique wildlife and dramatic geological formations, including the 36 domes of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas).
Skydiving in Australia
For thrill-seekers, skydiving in Australia is a must-do. Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairns are some of the best places to take the leap, offering spectacular views of the countryside, coastlines, and cityscapes.
Ningaloo Reef
Ningaloo Reef is an awe-inspiring marine paradise, teeming with vibrant coral, groupers, manta rays, and even whale sharks. It’s one of the most beautiful places on the Earth. Its proximity to the coast allows for instant access to its underwater wonders. Despite its remote location, making it a challenge to visit, the beauty and tranquility make it a deeply memorable, almost private experience.
Warrumbungle Dark Sky Park
The Warrumbungle National Park in New South Wales is Australia's first Dark Sky Park, providing some of the best stargazing experiences in the world. With its crystal-clear skies free from artificial light, you can observe the Milky Way, various planets, and a multitude of stars. The park also offers excellent opportunities for photography, camping, and exploring the unique volcanic landscape during the day.
Sydney fireworks on New Year’s eve
Sydney's New Year's Eve fireworks are a legendary spectacle known around the globe. The city's skyline is illuminated with vibrant colors and patterns, launched from the Sydney Harbour Bridge and various barges around the harbor. This event draws over a million spectators each year, making it one of the largest fireworks displays in the world.
The Ghan’s luxurious journey
Traversing the vast continent from Darwin to Adelaide, The Ghan is more than just a train ride—it's a luxurious journey through the heart of Australia. Over three days, passengers witness the changing landscapes, from the tropical Top End to the red hues of the Outback and onto the rolling South Australian plains.
Best landscapes in Australia
1. Australian Alps
2. Bungle Bungles
3. Daintree national park
4. Wineglass Bay
5. Grampians
6. The Kimberley
Know what Aussies like to do
- Australians have a deep appreciation for the great outdoors, and camping is a favorite pastime for many. From coastal retreats to outback adventures, there's a wide variety of campgrounds throughout the country. They are called ‘Holiday parks' here and offer a more comfortable camping experience with amenities such as pools, kitchens, and even entertainment facilities.
- Australians are passionate about sports, with cricket, rugby, and Australian Rules Football (AFL) being among the most popular. Events like The Ashes, the Rugby League State of Origin, and the AFL Grand Final draw massive crowds and are celebrated with enthusiasm across the nation.
- Beach culture is an integral part of Australian life. Many Australians regularly flock to the coast to surf, sunbathe, and enjoy beachside barbie (barbeque). Iconic beaches like Bondi, Gold Coast, and Byron Bay epitomize this laid-back beach lifestyle.
- The arts scene in Australia is vibrant and diverse, with a particular emphasis on live music and theater. Cities like Melbourne and Sydney are teeming with live venues, from intimate bars to grand concert halls, showcasing everything from indie bands to international stars.
- Aussies love their coffee, and the local café culture is a testament to that. Melbourne, in particular, is often cited as having some of the best espresso bars in the world, where baristas can be found perfecting their latte art and serving up single-origin brews.
- Wine tasting is another popular activity, with numerous world-class wineries dotting the landscape, especially in regions like the Yarra Valley and Margaret River.
Tips for visiting Australia
- If a local advises you to not go down that bush or not swim beyond a certain point, please listen to them! Australia is home to diverse landscapes and ecosystems, which can be dangerous if you’re not prepared. Local knowledge is invaluable in staying safe.
- Be mindful of the strong sun. Always wear sunscreen with high SPF, a hat, and sunglasses when outdoors. Dehydration and sunburn can occur quickly, even on cloudy days.
- Be aware of Australian biosecurity laws. They're strict to protect local agriculture and ecosystems. Declare all food, plant, and animal items upon arrival.
- If you're planning to travel long distances within the country, make sure to load up with plenty of books, movies, or podcasts. Australia is vast, and there can be long stretches between destinations, so make sure you keep yourself entertained.
- When driving across the country's interior, ensure you have a clear route planned out. There are vast areas without any signs of civilization—no towns, shops, or even petrol stations!
