australia world travel guide

Travel to Australia: Tips and Information 2024 Guide

Everything you need to know about planning travel to Australia in our epic destination guide.

Australia is a vast and bountiful country that offers beauty, leisure and adventure at every turn.

It consists of not only gorgeous and unique landscapes and wildlife, but also the famous outback culture, quirky small towns and well-developed coastal cities making travel to Australia a must. 

Road trips  are a great way to see the country. The same vastness that makes a road trip across Australia seem daunting is the very reason to explore it by vehicle. 

Wildlife  is one of the main reasons to travel to Australia. Approximately 90% of the animals that are native to Australia cannot be found anywhere else in the world. 

Australia is also known for its world-class  beaches . Whether you want to soak in the sun, catch a few waves or snorkel or scuba dive, there is plenty to do along the nearly 40,000 km of coastline!

And, of course, you could spend days or weeks exploring the stunning landscape of the  Australian Outback . 

In case you couldn’t tell, there are plenty of reasons to travel to Australia.

Now let us help you plan your trip!

There are so many exciting things happening in Australia right now, and it really is one of the biggest bucket list destinations on the planet! If you have any questions about travelling Australia that aren’t answered in this guide feel free to drop us an email.

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Here are the basics of travel to Australia.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane

Australian Dollar. 1 beer = $8-9AUD (See  current exchange rates )

ENTRY / VISA:

You will need a visa to travel to Australia unless you are a citizen of New Zealand. Most travellers to Australia will qualify for a free visa entitling them to stay in the country up to one year. Be sure to check this list of these  eligible countries  to determine if you can apply online for your 3 month travel visa.

Generally speaking Australia is regarded as a very safe country. The crime rates are pretty low and most crime against tourists is petty theft. In big cities such as Sydney and Melbourne you should take the usual precautions.

ELECTRICITY:

The standard voltage is 230V at 50 Hz frequency. Socket Type 1 (Be sure to get your  universal travel adapter  before you leave)

TRANSPORTATION:

Australia is huge. So you will likely travel by a combination of domestic flights, trains and buses. Although rental cars are great options for exploring Australia.

Important Note!  Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is  World Nomads .

Top 5 Travel Experiences in Australia

With so much to see and  do in Australia , it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Australia you need to plan to add these 5 activities to your itinerary.

Go Snorkelling/ Diving

The underwater world is at its finest in the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you are certified to dive, prefer to snorkel or just want to experience the largest reef in the world by boat, a trip to the Great Barrier Reef should be near the top of your list of things to do when travelling in Australia. 

Snorkel or dive  the Great Barrier Reef .

Hike Incredible Landscapes

Whether taking an excursion to Tasmania or a day trip to one of the many beautiful national parks, there are many great hikes to do throughout Australia.

Hike  throughout Tasmania !

Take an Epic Roadtrip

Australia is ripe for driving expeditions. Whether you are a hardcore overlander, prefer to drive by rental car or want to experience van life at its finest, Australia offers some of the best road trips in the world. Drive along the Great Ocean Road, head inland to Uluru or pick any two towns and drive.

Tour the most famous Australian road trip along  the Great Ocean Road .

Catch a Wave

Bondi Beach is world-famous for its picturesque sand and clear blue water. Catch a wave on a surf or bodyboard or simply enjoy the beach for what it is. If you really want an experience world-class waves to surf your way up the Gold Coast.

Take a surf lesson  at the famous Bondi Beach:

View Sydney from Above

Sydney Harbour is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Check out the busy city and bustling harbour by climbing to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The views of the city are sure to not disappoint! 

See it all in this  one-day Sydney itinerary .

Other Things to do in Australia

Swim with whale sharks . The Ningaloo Reef is the best place to swim with the gentle giants of the sea. A  trip of this kind  is not soon to be forgotten!

Explore the Blue Mountains . Just an hour outside of the busy streets of Sydney and you’ll find yourself  surrounded by pristine wilderness .

Head out on a vineyard tour . Australian wine is some of the best in the world and you can sample several as your  tour Margaret River .

Go Whale Watching.  It is mystical and spiritual to encounter massive whales in the wild. Enjoy an experience from  Hervey Bay  among others in Australia.

Skydive . Sure you won’t see the entire country. But if you skydive at  one of the most popular places  in Australia you will see Rottnest Island and the beautiful surrounding waters.

Climb Mount Kosciuszko . This mountain in mainland  Australia’s tallest peak  at just over 2,200 meters. Add it to the list of continental peaks you have to summit.

Sail around the Whitsunday Islands . These islands are among the most diverse in the world offering rainforest hikes, white sandy beaches and the Great Barrier Reef.  Touring these islands  is an absolute must.

Take the train across the country . Splurge on a little  scenic luxury trip  and enjoy the countryside of Australia as you zip around the country, er continent.

Take a tour of Kangaroo Island . The island is Australia’s third-largest and taking a tour will reveal that it is home to a variety of  animal species and a vast wilderness to explore .

Visit Wineglass Bay . There are many reasons to visit Tasmania and Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park is among the top. Be sure to give yourself enough time to explore the other  great places to see in Tasmania .

Search for pearls in the sea . So you may not find any of your own, but Broome has a thriving pearl industry in its pristine waters and you are welcome to  dive into the experience  of making the world your oyster.

Hike the Larapinta Trail . This trail is among the top trails in all of the world and traverses the Northern Territory out of Alice Springs. Be sure to  hike this trail  as it is growing in popularity year after year.

Visit the Sydney Opera House . Perhaps the most iconic image of Australia, aside from a cuddly koala or kangaroo, that you can tour or take photos of from seemingly anywhere in Sydney.

Be Sure to Check Out These Other Amazing Things to do in Australia

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Best Places to Visit in Australia

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Australia. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay. 

Narrowing down the best places to travel in Australia is difficult. From picturesque beaches to arid desert, Australia offers a wide range of places to visit and things to see and do. 

Here are our top 5 places to visit in Australia. 

Here is where you will find Australia’s most famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera, the Harbour Bridge and its surrounded by plenty of national parks if you want a change from the city scenery.

Be sure to add these  things to do in Sydney  to your itinerary.

The capital of Queensland and one of Australia’s largest cities, Brisbane is a highly sought after destination for those coming Down Under. The city is rich with history, a vibrant food scene, beautiful views and so much to do.

Start planning with these awesome  things to do in Brisbane .

Uluru is located in the centre of the country and is unique for being very isolated. Known for natural wonders such as the massive monolith Ayers Rock, Uluru is full of spectacular scenery and beautiful landscapes. 

See our guide on the  top things to do in Uluru .

Of all the cities in Australia, Melbourne is seen as the cultural one. It is full of international visitors and residents, which is surely a testament to its attractive vibe. The city is equally adored by patriotic Melbournians; they will be the first to tell you how amazing it is, and they are usually happy to impart details of their favourite spots.

Spend the perfect  3 days in Melbourne  with this itinerary.

Tasmania is especially well known for its natural beauty in breathtaking Freycinet National Park, the Bay of Fires and Cradle Mountain. Simply put, there are so many things to do in Tasmania!

Plan your trip with the best  2-week Tasmania itinerary .

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Australia, reference our following city travel guides: 

*  City Guide *  Itinerary *  Day Trips

*  City Guide * Itinerary *  Day Trips

*  City Guide * Itinerary * Day Trips

*  State Guide *  Places to Visit *  Itinerary *  Camping Guide

Gold Coast Adelaide Cairns Byron Bay Broome Noosa Blue Mountains Airlie Beach Kangaroo Island

Hervey Bay Esperance Fraser Island Port Stephens Great Ocean Road Uluru Exmouth Margaret River The Whitsundays Darwin

Be Sure to Check Out These Other Awesome Places to Visit in Australia .

Best Australia Travel Itinerary

Australia is huge and offers so many opportunities to explore its vastness. It would be easy to spend weeks or months in any one part of the country.

So trying to see the whole of Australia might seem overwhelming. 

Depending on how long you have to travel to Australia, where you plan to visit and what you plan to do, you have plenty of options.

We’ve put together a few  Australia itineraries  that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit. 

2-Week Australia Travel Itinerary Highlights

If you only have 2 weeks you’re going to have to choose which side of Australia to visit and you’re going to miss out on a lot. But that’s OK because you can always plan a return trip!

The more popular side will be New South Wales + Queensland on the eastern shore of the continent. However, there is also plenty to see in Western Australia as well.

3-Weeks to 1 Month Australia Travel Itinerary Highlights

If you have between 3 weeks and a month to explore Australia then you can combine both the New South Wales + Queensland and Western Australia loops with some reasonably priced domestic flights to connect you in the bigger cities.

Additionally consider adding on the following cities/activities:

6 – 8 Weeks + Australia Travel Itinerary Highlights

Most people who travel to Australia will spend approximately 2 months visiting the country.

If you are trying to get a taste of the entire country, the quickest and most thorough way to see the country would be to follow this itinerary.

Australia Trip Planning

Best time to visit australia.

Australia is located in the Southern Hemisphere and thus has opposite seasons from most of the world. This can be confusing, so make sure to plan accordingly! 

Additionally, the country is so large and offers such varied climates and landscapes that the weather you experience depends on the region and time of year in which you’re travelling.

If you are planning to travel to Australia during summer (December – February), know that this is the most popular time to visit Australia.

But during fall and spring, the tourism and temperatures fall off. This makes this time of year perhaps the most ideal time to visit any place in Australia.

You can still enjoy most of the outdoor activities for which Australia is known without dealing with the large crowds and expenses of the busy tourist season.

This is also an ideal time to explore the Australian Outback or to swim with whale sharks along the western coast. 

If you are interested in winter sports, Australia also offers plenty of opportunities to ski and snowboard. You can find yourself in great ski slopes within a few hours of landing at the airport. 

So really Australia has it all! Depending on what you would like to see and do, you can plan to travel to Australia at any time of the year!

Australia Travel Budget Guideline

Travelling in Australia is not cheap, and many people are unprepared how expensive Australia really is.

However, if you plan accordingly you can find ways to have an amazing experience while not breaking the bank.

Be prepared with these Australia travel tips so that you do not end up spending more money than you should. 

Some of the average costs you can expect in Australia are as follows:

Note that transportation costs will vary by how much you intend to travel and these include budgeting for various domestic flights in addition to standard metro transportation.

Budgeting Tips:

Here are some of our tips for spending less when travelling in Australia:

• Cook as many of your meals as possible 
• Use local transport when available
• Couchsurf or look for AirBnB deals ( use our link to get $35 off your first Airbnb stay )
• Seek free wifi in public places
• Get a pre-paid phone plan from a supermarket. Telstra has the best coverage outside of major cities, but they are also the most expensive.
• Work for your room – some hostels let you work a couple of hours daily in exchange for free room
• Drink less (tough, we know!). The average price of a pint in Australia is AUD$8 -$9 and they can quickly add up!
• WWOOF – is a program that connects young travellers with organic farms. You work in exchange for free accommodation and board.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day. 

Budget Traveller ($60-90 Single / $100+ Couples)

If you’re a backpacker and you stay in hostels, use local transport and cook many of your meals – you could plan to spend around AUD$60-90/per day.

Mid-Range Traveller ($100-200 Single / $150+ Couple)

Couples will share some expenses, such as accommodation, but will also incur more individual expenses.

To stay on a budget you will want to follow the general budgeting tips but also look to possibly purchase a used vehicle or campervan for longer trips to Australia.

This can combine your transportation and accommodation costs.

Luxury Traveller ($350+ Single / $500+ Couple)

You can spend as much as you want to spend when you travel to Australia.

It is likely the biggest difference in your budget will be upgrading your accommodation, adding a few extra drinks with your meals or nights out and catching flights around the country instead of overnight buses.

Getting to and Around Australia

As an island nation, Australia is most accessible from flights arranged from many of the larger cities of Europe, North America, Asia and South Africa.

But depending on where you are travelling from, expect to spend a fair amount on the plane ticket and quite a bit of time in the air.

Our best advice is to do research and buy your ticket as soon as possible. Booking several months in advance will provide you the most consistently lowest fares. 

Additionally, major airlines offer seasonal promotions and occasional discounts so stay alert!

One of the best ways to make sure you get the best deal is to sign up for email alerts to receive special offers from airlines such as Qantas, Virgin Australia, United and Delta.

It is also a good idea to browse for flights in incognito mode. Or alternatively, you can clear the cache in your browser periodically.

Many travel sites will charge you higher fares if they know you are visiting their sites frequently to search for flights. 

Google Flights also offers some of the best initial research for fares from your destination.

However, be sure to check fares directly with the airline as there may be unspecified fees and regulations not listed in the Google Flights results. 

Entry Requirements

You will need a visa to travel to Australia unless you are a citizen of New Zealand.

Most travellers to Australia will qualify for a free visa entitling them to stay in the country up to one year. 

Be sure to check  this list of eligible countries  to determine if you can apply online for your 3-month travel visa.

Getting Around Australia

Transportation in and around Australia is as varied as the country itself.

However, because it is so large you will likely experience a combination of transportation options wherever you plan to travel in Australia. 

Australia has a fantastic domestic air network that allows you to connect to points all across the country. Some of the airlines that offer great deals to hop across the continent include:

• Virgin Australia
• Tiger Airways

The wide selection in airlines and routes offers fairly competitive prices especially when it comes to the Sydney-Melbourne leg of travel.

If you’re flying out to a remote destination such as Uluru, Hamilton Island or Darwin – your best bet is to book well in advance. But then still expect fares to be a little pricey. 

If you have the time and want a truly unique experience you can cross the country  aboard the Indian Pacific railway .  Expect some of the best service, food and scenery you can imagine when travelling in Australia by train. 

This is the only way to cross the country by train. However, it is very expensive.

Bus is the best way to travel in Australia on a budget. Greyhound buses operate in most of the capital cities and will connect you to pretty much anywhere in the country you would like to go. 

The prices for intercity bus travel are modest. Additionally, many companies offer discounts for students. 

The bus is also a great way to travel in many of the larger cities.

Not only can you cover a lot of ground by using the public bus system in places like Sydney, Melbourne and Perth but also it will save you quite a bit of money to spend on other things. 

Rental Cars

If you’d like to travel in Australia at your own pace,  renting a car is your best option .

However, it can be pricey especially if you plan to pick up the vehicle in one city and drop it in another. 

But nothing will beat the freedom you have to go to the places you want to see and do them at your own pace. 

If you are really into exploring the country with the most amount of freedom,  consider renting a campervan .

Campervans combine the flexibility of driving at your own pace and itinerary with the freedom to stop and sleep pretty much anywhere along your journey.

Many campervans come fully equipped to be able to prepare your own meals and be self-sustainable for days on end as you explore the country. 

Petrol prices vary, depending on where you are travelling from. For example, they are lower than those in the UK and Europe, but higher than in many places in North and South America.

One thing to keep in mind is that distances between places in Australia are large. So it is very likely that you will be driving long distances while travelling in Australia.

The same vastness that makes a road trip across Australia seem daunting is the very reason to explore it by vehicle. Some of the best attractions are only reachable via car because they are remote and well off the beaten path.

Depending on how much time you are willing to commit to driving across the country, you could take weeks or months to absorb the landscape, wildlife and culture of the Australian people.

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.

Apps and Technology

Technology can help you stay safe and make the most of your travels to Australia.

Here are a few we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

• XE Currency  – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 
• Express VPN  – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in Australia. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 
• The Happiest Hour  – This app helps you find the best drink deals wherever you are travelling in Australia
• BeachSafe  – Search every beach in Australia and know the hazards before you get in the water.
• Uber  – Yep, you know what to use Uber for. Catch rides in any major Australia city for a fraction of taxi fares.

Best Things to Eat in Australia

Australia has a variety of dishes to represent the varied cultural and historical aspects of the country.

While known more for its beer than its food, there are several types of food that you do not want to miss when travelling in Australia. 

Here are a few of the best options to explore: 

The Lamington –  This is the national cake of Australia. It is a square-shaped sponge cake that comes with chocolate icing and has coconut sprinkled all over it. Sometimes it has jam in the middle.

Vegemite on toast –  Vegemite is a brown food paste that doesn’t look appetising at all. But Australians swear on it. It is most popularly used like jam on toast.

Grilled Kangaroo –  While many people visit Australia to view wildlife such as kangaroo ,  it is also a pretty popular meal. While it tends to dry out so it’s usually cooked from rare to medium, it is delicious when served with rosemary, plums, oranges, peppers, juniper, garlic and red currant.

Meat pies –  Meat pies are every Australian’s favourite childhood snack. It is nearly always on the menu, whether it be as an appetiser at a restaurant, house party or sporting event. You’ll find meat pies usually served with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Fish & Chips –  One thing is for sure, Australia has plenty of fresh, delicious fish to create this traditional meal. Regardless of what part of the country you visit, it’s likely you’ll find this plate anywhere in Australia to compliment a nice cold beer. 

Places to Stay in Australia

Australia has a variety of types of accommodations for which you will find suitable for most budgets. In general, expect to pay more for a night in Australia than most other countries in the world.

But for what you are searching, it is likely you will find the perfect place and price.

Types of Accommodations

As in nearly all other places in the world, accommodation is Australia is varied and depends on your desires, budget and location.

When travelling in Australia you can find accommodation that ranges from bed and breakfasts to hotels, hostels and homestays. 

Australian Bed & Breakfast & Guesthouses

You can find family-run guesthouses popping up all over Australia. They can vary a lot by style, from converted barns, bungalows to townhouses.

Rates vary as well depending on the location of the guesthouse and facilities offered.

They offer reasonably priced comfortable rooms and you can also enjoy the family feel, the home-cooked dinners and rely on information provided by the owners.

Hostels are the most popular way for budget travellers to find accommodation while travelling in Australia. However, they are no longer just for students and younger people.

Many hostels in the country offer the kind of amenities that attract people from all walks of life. Usually, they offer shared dorms, cooking facilities, communal area with TV, 24-hour reception and laundry facilities. 

Additionally, hostels are a great way to meet people and learn about other places to visit and things to do in Australia. 

Hotels can be considerably expensive in Australia. Even ones that are not deemed as luxury or boutique hotels can carry a pretty heavy cost. 

If you’re looking for maximum comfort then staying in a hotel is the right choice. But be prepared to shell out for that comfort when travelling in Australia. 

Camping & Caravan Parks

One of the most popular ways to see Australia is to travel by camper van.

Rent a camper or a caravan and you can go camping anywhere! Whether it be in national parks or outside of the city limits.

The best thing is that you will be able to experience the country more fully and save money that you’d otherwise spend on accommodation.

Another good option in recent years is AirBnB, and there are more and more amazing places popping up to stay for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are popping up, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay. 

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay in the area, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before,  sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

Australia Travel Tips

General australia travel tips.

While there are  many basic travel tips  we suggest you use when travelling to Australia, there is also plenty of Australia-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Australia: 

• Time . One of the most common mistakes that first time travellers make is trying to experience Australia within 2-3 weeks. This is a continent not just a country. It is best to choose just two or three areas to focus on your first visit. Otherwise, you will risk spending most of your holiday in transit.
• Cost . Australia is very expensive, make sure to either cut down your costs or apply one of our tips to get a decently priced accommodation – also make sure to bring twice as much money than how much you originally intended to.
• Tipping . Tipping for services in Australia is not mandatory and most of them are not used to it. Only tip if you exceptionally enjoyed the service.
• Sun Protection . The sun is very harsh – pack a lot of sunscreens!
• Distances . The distances between major cities are bigger than in Europe or the US. Once you’re out of the city you already feel like you’re in the wild!
• Seasons . Australia is in the southern hemisphere which means that all seasons are completely opposite of the northern hemisphere. That’s true for the southern part of the country but not the north. Which in returns means that it’s ideal to visit Sydney from November – April but it’s the exact opposite if they want to visit the Great Barrier Reef!

READ MORE: Our comprehensive list of Australia travel tips to make your journey safer, more enjoyable and more affordable!

Australia Packing List

We always travel with a  core packing list  wherever we go. And when it comes to Australia, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our  travel essentials  and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

Staying Safe in Australia

Generally speaking, Australia is regarded as a very safe country.

The crime rates are pretty low and if by any chance tourists end up being victims of crime it’s usually a case of pickpocketing.

In big cities such as Sydney and Melbourne you should take the usual precautions:

• Do not walk alone at night in poorly lit areas
• Don’t leave your valuables unattended
• Don’t carry your wallet in your back pocket

The biggest danger when travelling in Australia actually comes from natural hazards and animals.

Every year dozens of tourists drown on one of Australia’s busy beaches because of strong waves and riptides. Wildlife attacks account for a handful more incidents. 

But in general, you should feel very safe when you travel to Australia. 

Medical System in Australia

The public health care system in Australia is called Medicare. Australian hospitals are renowned for world-class medical facilities and the highest standards of care.

The Australian government has Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements with a  couple of countries  which allow travellers access to subsidised health services.

Since there’s always a risk from natural hazards, dangerous animals and simple accidents while exploring the country, it is always advised to buy travel insurance.

Travel insurance  will cover loss, theft, accidents and various medical problems.

It is especially recommended if you plan on doing activities that carry a certain degree of risk such as scuba diving, travelling to remote areas, bushwalking etc.

Staying Connected in Australia

Staying connected in Australia is harder than you think it would be. The country is known for abysmally slow internet.

So if you’re trying to keep up with work while you are on the road, it may be a bit difficult.

But there are definitely economical ways to stay connected while you travel in Australia.

We feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few other options. 

Good Idea: Rent a Portable WiFi Device

There are a variety of portable WiFi device rental companies throughout Australia.

Most plans include unlimited data use – although this is typically limited 4G which then reduces to 3G after some small consumption.

Remember that the internet in Australia is notoriously slow so be patient and prepared to spend around $5 -$10 per day for the services.

Reserve your  mobile WiFi device .

Better Idea: Access Free WiFI

One of the best, and certainly the most affordable, ways to stay connected when you travel to Australia is by taking advantage of the many free WiFi hotspots throughout the country.

Of course, these are most commonly found in densely populated cities and at private establishments like McDonald’s.

But if you time your desire to surf the web with the need to grab a bite to eat or a cup of joe then it will still likely work out cheaper than either purchasing a SIM card or renting a mobile WiFi device.

Best Idea: Purchase a SIM Card

SIM Cards make staying connected during international travel much easier. You can purchase prepaid SIM cards in Australia to use in any unlocked mobile device.

These will give you the greatest flexibility in staying connected while you travel.

Purchase a  SIM card today .

Be a Responsible Traveller in Australia

As with most countries, when travelling to Australia there are several things you can do to be a responsible traveller.

Consider the following:

• Mind your use of plastics. This includes straws, bags and bottles. Consider carrying a reusable straw, waterbottle and bags for shopping.
• Buy local. Supporting smaller merchants helps local economies.
• Choose sustainable tour operators. This is especially true for all tours into nature preserves, those that deal with animals, or those that will take you to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef.
• Leave it better than you found it. Pack out any of your waste, mind the local rules, stay on trails and don’t touch or feed the wild animals.
• Avoid activities that involve touching wild animals. If a tour has to. pursue an animal in the wild, it is likely presenting more harm and discomfort to the animal than if you are approached by the animal.

Books to Read About Australia

You’ve seen Crocodile Dundee and think you know everything about Australia? Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Australia. 

• The Songlines  (Bruce Chatwin) – Set in the Australian Outback, this novel documents the source of the “Dreaming Tracks” of the Aborigines.  Buy here .
• The Secret River  (Kate Grenville) – Historical fiction about the settlement of New South Wales by an English convict in the early 1800s as part of his sentence.  Buy on Amazon .
• In A Sunburned Country  (Bill Bryson) – Half scientific, half anecdotal account of the famous writer who set out to explore all of the wilderness of life in Australia.  Buy on Amazon .
• The True History of the Kelly Gang  (Peter Carey) – A historical fiction tale about the famous Ned Kelly from the perspective of letters written to his young daughter while he was on the run.  Buy on Amazon .
• The Harp In The South  (Ruth Park) – An Australian classic about life in Sydney during the Great Depression.  Buy on Amazon.

Booking Resources

I know, I know – we’ve already mentioned these resources a bunch in this travel guide.

But here’s the thing… we know you’re going to want and need these resources to help you save money and have a more enjoyable trip! 

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!

Table of Contents

Read our australia posts, 7 day gold coast itinerary (2024 guide), the perfect sydney itinerary for 3-5 days, the ultimate western australia road trip itinerary, mt field national park – travel guide and itinerary [2024], the ultimate travel guide to the tasman peninsula [2024], queensland road trips – 11 best drive itineraries [2024], the perfect 1, 2 or 3 week australia itinerary [2024], climbing mount kosciuszko – the roof of australia, the ultimate guide to the 10 best kiama beaches, the 12 best perth beaches – a local’s guide [2024], the best port stephens beaches – nelson bay and beyond, the 9 best cairns waterfalls (less than 1-hour from town).

Introducing Australia

About australia.

• Images of Australia
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Australia
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Adelaide Airport
• Brisbane Airport
• Cairns Airport
• Melbourne Airport
• Perth Airport
• Sydney Airport
• Bondi Beach
• Bundaberg beaches
• Caloundra beaches
• Coolangatta beaches
• Mooloolaba beaches
• Noosa beaches
• Surfers Paradise

Australia travel guide

Australia is a land of savage beauty, big adventure and even bigger horizons. There are good reasons why the country finds itself touted as one of the ultimate travel getaways; it has personality in spades, landscapes to die for and more than its fair share of sunshine. And if beaches, rainforest and outback aren’t your thing, then its major cities are outstanding destinations in their own right.

In many ways the country breeds extremes. The fiery atmosphere of an Aussie Rules match in Melbourne and the champagne glitz of Sydney Harbour belong to another planet entirely when compared to the quiet expanse of the Red Centre or the surf-bashed coastlines of the west.

Likewise, 40,000 years of Aboriginal culture sometimes seem an unnatural bedfellow for the famed “no worries mate” BBQ-lifestyle of modern times. When taken as a whole, however, the sum of Australia’s contrasts make it a destination that is as fascinating as it is diverse.

Knowing where to go is arguably the toughest part. There are well-travelled paths, with Sydney and the east coast being a perennially popular choice. When you’re faced with a country of this magnitude, however, potential itineraries are numberless. The Great Barrier Reef? Uluru? The Great Ocean Road? Kakadu? Hobart? The Kimberley? When the tourist board controversially coined the slogan “So where the bloody hell are you?” it raised a fair point.

There are iconic Aussie clichés by the barrel-load (from cork hats to barbecues, koalas to crocodiles, and cricketers to bush tucker) but the real beauty of the place lies in the stuff you’re not expecting; the dusty open road that unfurls to reveal verdant hills; the cold beer at an outback pub that turns into an evening-long session; the stroll to the beach that throws up a street market, open-air concert and implausibly beautiful sunset.

A trip Down Under has long been synonymous with escape, exploration and adventure – an image that's unlikely to change anytime soon.

7,692,024 sq km (2,969,907 sq miles).

24,127,200 (Australian Bureau of Statistics 2016).

3.1 per sq km.

Constitutional monarchy.

HM King Charles III since 2022, represented locally by Governor-General David Hurley since 2019.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese since 2022.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Australia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Australia’s High Commission in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

You do not need a pre-departure COVID-19 test to enter or transit Australia regardless of your COVID-19 vaccination status. See the Australian government’s website for advice on COVID-19 and travelling.

COVID-19 quarantine requirements

Each state and territory determines its own quarantine rules. You should check requirements for specific states and territories .

Passport validity requirements

For entry into Australia, your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. If you’re transiting another country on your way to or from Australia, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport.

Visa requirements

British citizens can usually get the following types of electronic visitor visa:

• eVisitor visa . There is no visa application charge or service fee
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) via the iOS App or Android App . There is no visa application charge, but a service fee of A$20 may apply

Information on all other types of visa is available from the Department of Home Affairs .

Working holiday visa

Thousands of Britons travel to Australia each year on a working holiday visa and the vast majority have no issues. Working conditions, accommodation and medical facilities are generally of a good standard.

You can find information about your rights as an employee in Australia and how to report any concerns about unfair or unlawful treatment on the Fair Work Ombudsman website , or by calling 131 394.

Get more information about working in Australia .

Dual nationals

If you’re a British national living in Australia with Australian citizenship, or a dual national, it is best to leave and enter Australia on your Australian passport. You could face difficulties and delays if you do not. See Australian government advice for dual nationals .

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Australia guide .

Quarantine of goods

Australia has strict quarantine rules to keep out pests and diseases that could affect plant, animal or human health.

You must fill out an Incoming Passenger Card and either:

• declare any risk goods including food, animal products and plant material (including wooden articles)
• dispose of any risk goods in the bins at the airport or sea port

All luggage is x-rayed on arrival. Any items of concern are further inspected, treated and if necessary confiscated and destroyed. You can be heavily fined for breaches of quarantine regulations.

You can find more information on the Department of Agriculture website .

You will also be asked to declare whether you have ‘visited a rural area, or been in contact with, or near, farm animals outside Australia in the past 30 days’.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Australia

Terrorist attacks in Australia cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. You should be vigilant, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Recent terrorist attacks in Australia include:

in 2018, a person was killed and several were injured in a terrorist incident in Melbourne

in 2017, a person was shot dead and another taken hostage in Melbourne

See the Government of Australia’s national terrorism threat level .

Protecting your belongings

Take precautions to protect yourself from petty crime, including:

• not leaving your bag or luggage unattended
• keeping luggage out of sight in cars
• keeping valuables and passport in a hotel safe
• leaving copies of important documents with family and friends in the UK
• carrying a photocopy of your passport for ID
• being particularly careful at night in busy tourist areas

There are many different types of scams targeting people in or travelling to Australia, including dating and romance scams, websites offering fake services, or building repair scams. You can check current scams or report any concerns you have about a scam on the Scamwatch website .

Alcohol use

Drinks served in bars overseas are often stronger than those in the UK. Alcohol and drugs can lead to you being less alert, less in control and less aware of your environment.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

You can reduce the risk of losing your passport by carrying a proof of age card, this could be a driving licence or a student ID. This is accepted ID for many services like opening a bank account or entering licensed premises.

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

Laws on e-cigarettes differ between states. Liquid nicotine is classed as a poison and banned from sale nationwide, however some states allow importation for personal use and use of e-cigarettes without nicotine. Get local advice on any restrictions.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

The Australian authorities will take action against anyone who imports or is found to be trafficking illegal drugs. Prosecution can lead to a lengthy jail sentence and deportation.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex marriages are legally recognised. Australia is generally open minded about homosexuality, but there are isolated incidents of homophobic crime. Visit Gay Australia is a useful travel planning resource alongside LGBT+ information from the Australian Human Rights Commission .

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Different tax rules and rates apply to residents and non-residents. Working holidaymakers are usually regarded as non-resident for tax purposes. This means they do not qualify for any tax-free personal allowance on earnings. Get guidance from the Australian Taxation Office website .

Mobile phones

The mobile phone network generally works well in cities and large towns but coverage elsewhere can be very limited or non-existent. If you’re travelling to remote areas, check with your phone provider about coverage. You can use your UK mobile phone in Australia if global roaming has been activated, but making and receiving calls can be expensive. Many visitors prefer to buy an Australian SIM card on arrival.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Swimming safety.

Rip currents are the main surf hazard for all beach users. They can occur at any beach, and can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea.

Take precautions and follow the local guidance on swim safety and the guidance on beach safety from Surf Life Saving Australia .

Rivers and pools can be subject to sudden flash flooding as a result of heavy rain elsewhere in the area. There have been cases of British nationals being injured by diving into water that was too shallow. Make sure there is sufficient depth of water before diving, and always follow warning signs.

Diving safety

Snorkelling accidents can occur and have sometimes been fatal.

You need by law to complete a medical declaration for resort diving or snorkelling. For your own health and safety, you must be truthful about any medical conditions you have.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Australia, see information on driving abroad .

If you’re hiring a car immediately on arrival be cautious about driving. You might be jetlagged and tired from your flight. Take regular rest breaks at the many rest stops on the roads.

Australia is known for having larger distances between towns and amenities, make sure you have enough water before travelling and tell someone about your plans.

Check road conditions before beginning your journey. Stay with your vehicle if it breaks down. Avoid travelling in extreme heat. Sudden storms and strong winds can make driving difficult. Take particular care when driving on unsealed roads, 4WD tracks and desert or beach roads. Northern Territory Police have in the past warned tourists to stay off unsealed tracks in remote areas of Central Australia following reports of stranded motorists.

Licences and permits

You can drive in Australia using your UK driving licence as long as:

• you remain a temporary overseas visitor
• your UK licence is valid
• you have not been disqualified from driving anywhere
• your licence is not suspended or cancelled, or your visiting driving privileges withdrawn

If you intend to stay in Australia and you hold a permanent visa, you can drive using your UK licence for a maximum of 3 months. To continue driving, you must get a local licence within this 3-month period.

You must carry your driving licence and passport when driving. Make sure you have sufficient insurance, including if you borrow a car from a friend or relative. Hire car insurance often does not cover driving on unsealed roads. Check your policy before you set off.

Driving laws

Driving laws and regulations differ in each state and territory. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal. The penalties can be severe. You must wear a seat belt at all times.

Driving in the outback

Prepare thoroughly if driving in remote outback areas, which can present unexpected hazards. Ensure you have a roadworthy vehicle fitted with GPS and 2 spare tyres. Take good maps and extra food, water and fuel. Plan your route carefully and get local advice before you set out. Leave your route details and expected time of return with the local tourist authorities, police, your hotel or hostel, or friends and relatives, and let them know when you’ve arrived safely.

Driving on K’gari (Fraser Island)

Following a number of serious accidents, all vehicles on K’gari (Fraser Island) must keep to a maximum speed of 80km per hour on beaches and 30km per hour in towns. 4WD vehicles must have no more than 8 occupants (including the driver) and you must store all luggage inside the vehicle.

Avoid driving at night and be aware of beach hazards like ditches created by the surf. K’gari is remote and emergency services can take many hours to reach an accident. Carry a well-stocked first-aid kit and personal medication as there is no pharmacy on the island. For more information on keeping safe in K’gari please see the Queensland Government’s parks and forests website .

Extreme weather and natural disasters

In an emergency dial 000.

Be aware of the risk of bushfires, especially at the height of the Australian summer (November to February). Bushfires can start and change direction with little or no notice.

Australia regularly battles devastating bushfires across a number of regions during the summer season. Previous fires resulted in the loss of lives and property with many residents advised to evacuate their homes.

If you’re in or near an affected area, follow the advice of local authorities:

• Australian Capital Territory Fire and Rescue
• New South Wales Rural Fire Service and ‘Fires Near Me’ app
• Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service
• Queensland Fire and Emergency Services
• South Australian Country Fire Service
• Tasmania Fire Service
• Victoria’s Country Fire Authority
• Western Australia Department of Fire and Emergency Services

Smoke from bush fires can cause poor air quality, which can provoke respiratory conditions. Smoke can accumulate many kilometres from a fire, including in urban areas and major cities. Most state and territory governments provide information on the monitoring of air quality and advice if you’re unable to avoid being in a smoke affected area:

Heavy rain and tropical cyclones can cause flooding, including flash floods in some areas. You can get flood warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology . Check local media reports .

Significant weather events can happen suddenly. Spillways, flood plains and drains can quickly become submerged.

Stay at home or leave now orders may be issued by local authorities. Always follow the advice of local authorities.

More information can be found on the relevant state and territory websites:

Earthquakes

While rare in Australia, earthquakes can happen. Follow the advice of the local authorities and emergency services in the event of a natural disaster.

Dust storms

Dust storms occur regularly in Australia, usually only in outback areas. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Tropical cyclones

Tropical cyclones occur in some parts of Australia, mainly Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia. The cyclone season normally runs from November to April.

Monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology website . See advice on what to do if you’re caught up in a storm .

Heat exhaustion

The terrain and intense heat can have a severe impact on your capabilities. Take plenty of water and a means of rigging up shelter from the sun. Further advice on bush safety for each State or Territory can be found on the New South Wales , Queensland , Victoria , Western Australia , Northern Territory , South Australia , Tasmania government websites. If you’re bush walking or exploring national parks it can take hours to get help in an emergency.

Dangerous wildlife

Australia has a number of dangerous animal species. There are crocodiles, jellyfish and sharks , as well as venomous insects, spiders and snakes in many parts of the country.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 000 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Australia guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Australia

While you are in Australia, you can access essential and urgent medical care through the UK-Australia Reciprocal Healthcare Agreement. Find out more about healthcare for UK citizens in Australia .

Essential and urgent hospital treatment is free. There is a charge to visit GPs and receive prescriptions. Some costs can be recovered through Medicare, Australia’s universal health insurance scheme. You can enrol with Medicare through Services Australia .

If you’re not covered by reciprocal healthcare arrangements between Australia and the UK, costs of treatment can be high.

The standard of healthcare in Australia is very good. UK residents are entitled to limited subsidised health services from Medicare for medically necessary treatment while visiting Australia. These provisions do not apply to non-visitors, for example those studying in Australia. Other exclusions under the reciprocal agreement include pharmaceuticals (unless you’re in hospital), use of ambulance services and medical evacuations, which are very expensive.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Australia .

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Australia

Telephone: 000 (ambulance, fire, police)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding lawyers and funeral directors in Australia
• dealing with a death in Australia
• being arrested in Australia
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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

Beginner's guide to travelling Australia

Are you ready for endless sunshine, beautiful beaches, dramatic deserts and ancient cultures? Start planning your trip with our first-timer's guide to visiting Australia.

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Australian states, territories and capital cities

The complete guide to accommodation and hotels in Australia

10 Australian destinations you simply can't miss

Planning essentials.

Getting here: USA to Australia flights

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Getting around

Why Australia is the best place to visit

Experience australia like a local.

A handy guide to the Australian lifestyle

Australia's bucket list food experiences

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Ultimate AUSTRALIA Travel Guide

Australia is the World’s largest island  and the smallest, flattest continent on Earth. It is located in the southern hemisphere just west of the international dateline. Our Australia Travel Guide is here to help take the guesswork out of planning your itinerary.

Officially part of  Oceania , Australia is a diverse nation with stunning coastlines, more beaches than you could hope for, a desolate bush in the center and everything else in between.

We spent 8 weeks seeing Australia  while we drove from  Melbourne to Cairns , worked at a warmblood horse farm in Victoria and explored the humid city of Darwin.

The funny part, we had only planned to stay for 4 weeks. Australia sucks you in with the headline sights and keeps you wanting more with its diversity.

Destinations

Australia travel: quick tips, don’t visit australia without:.

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

AUSTRALIA BUCKET LIST

Drive the great ocean road.

Heading west along the coast from Melbourne is one of Australia’s best drives,  the Great Ocean Road . You’ll uncover the surfer culture, see plenty of wildlife and stare in wonder at places like the Twelve Apostles. Be sure to give it at least 2 nights.

DIVE THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

Heading underwater to  explore the world’s largest barrier reef  is almost a rite of passage when exploring Australia! The reef is accessible from Airlie Beach all the way up to Cairns and it’s possible to book diving trips for all levels.

BUSH CAMP ON FRASER ISLAND

While controlled camping is possible on Fraser Island, the best way to experience the island is by  bush camping . Done with a permitted company, this will see you camping out in the wilds. It’s a refreshing adventure.

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN AUSTRALIA

There is no shortage of great  things to do in Australia  during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

Each region has its own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our island guides once you decide where you’re itinerary will take you.

You could also consider a visit to Tasmania during your time in Australia, too. Right at the southern tip of Australia, the colder climes of Tasmania are perfect for anyone looking to travel to Australia and get off the beaten track. Take the ferry across from the mainland, or fly into Hobart – either way, you’ll quickly be immersed in the dramatic coastal scenery and wilderness of the interior. Visit the lakes of Cradle Mountain, hike to the top of Mount Wellington, explore the history and heritage of Port Arthur, and enjoy the cool weather and breezy atmosphere!

Plan your trip like a seasoned pro!

Popular regions in australia, new south wales.

New South Wales is the starting point for many first-time visitors who travel to Australia. This is where you’ll find  Sydney , one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, as well as the stunning  Blue Mountains  and famous beaches such as Manly and Bondi. New South Wales is more than Sydney, though: you can road trip south to  Jervis Bay , head north to Newcastle, Port Macquarie, and all the way to  Byron Bay . Or you could head inland to the Australian Capital Territory and Canberra, or the tall peaks of Kosciuszko National Park.  

Victoria is best known for its capital city,  Melbourne , where you’ll find Australia’s quirkiest cafes, best coffee, and most intriguing galleries and museums. If you’re looking for  culture  when you travel, this is the destination for you. There’s more to see in Victoria though: you can road trip along the  epic Great Ocean Road , see the penguins at Phillip Island, or hike through the wilderness of Wilsons Promontory. 

Head north from New South Wales, and you can explore the tropical coastline of  Queensland  as part of your Australia travel itinerary. Start by relaxing on the Gold Coast beaches, where golden sands meet the city skyline spectacularly. Continue to Brisbane, one of the best cities in Australia. Here, you’ll find great bars and restaurants along the Southbank, the excellent Museum of Queensland, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, and much more. Keep heading north, and you’ll be able to visit the white sands of  Fraser Island , the beautiful sandy islands of the Whitsundays, the  Great Barrier Reef  at Cairns, and the ancient  Daintree Rainforest .

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

South Australia is home to both beautiful beaches and remote Outback scenery. It’s a great place to road trip and start a journey either east to Melbourne or north to Uluru. Adelaide is South Australia’s laidback and understated capital, home to wonderful botanical gardens and some interesting cultural museums and galleries. The Flinders Chase National Park has beautiful hiking opportunities, while the dusty, underground hotels and pubs of Coober Pedy are like nowhere else in the world.

NORTHERN TERRITORY

The Northern Territory is where you can find the iconic natural site of Uluru and the endless deserts of the Red Centre. This is the real Outback territory. Head to the far north, and you’ll discover a relatively understated part of the country in the tropical surrounds of  Darwin . Visit the steaming hot jungles of Kakadu National Park, explore incredible canyons, see crashing waterfalls, and watch out for crocs in the rivers in this great addition to your Australia travel itinerary. If you seek adventure, you’ll want to head to NT.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Head west to explore the remote reaches of Western Australia. Start in Perth, the most remote capital city in the world, before heading south to the colorful wine region of Margaret River and the beaches and coastal scenery of Albany and Esperance. Or you could head north, traveling along the long coastal road to stop off at the Ningaloo Reef, where you might spot Whale Sharks, head inland to the gorges of Karijini National Park, and explore the sheer beauty of Broome and the Kimberleys.

AUSTRALIA TRAVEL BUDGET

Setting a budget for travel to Australia is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere in Australia on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for travel within Australia. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

ACCOMMODATION: Hostels  will cost between AUD 20 and AUD 30 per night, although long-term backpackers can often organize deals on longer stays.  Hotels  will cost upwards of AUD 100 per night. Many travelers choose to  rent a car and camp , which can lower accommodation costs dramatically. 

FOOD:  Eating out isn’t cheap in Australia. Even a meal in a pub or cafe will likely set you back at least AUD 20 per person, more if it’s an upmarket restaurant. You can stay in self-catering accommodation or cook on the beach barbecues to save on costs if road tripping.

TRANSPORTATION:  Because of the vast distances between major destinations, you’ll need to plan your transport carefully as part of your Australia travel itinerary. The cheapest way to travel between cities is usually by  flying  budget airlines.  Bus and train  links exist on the east coast, and sporadically on the west, but are limited and costly. Many travelers prefer to arrange a  car or campervan  hire, which can be found for as little as AUD 50 per day.

ACTIVITIES:  Activity costs vary – from free hiking in national parks and days spent lounging at the beach to expensive paid activities at famous destinations.  Scuba diving  will cost AUD 100 per dive, while a boat trip out to the Great Barrier Reef will cost a minimum of AUD 100 for the day from Cairns. A day tour of  Fraser Island  will cost AUD 150, while the  Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb  is a similar price.

75 AUD PER DAY

Staying in hostels, camping, and carpooling to get around, while mostly living off groceries from the supermarket. Make this AUD 100 to throw in the odd private room or day tour.

200 AUD PER DAY

Midrange travelers looking to stay in private accommodation, eat out regularly, and enjoy plenty of day tours will need to budget at least AUD 200 per day.

500 AUD + PER DAY

Travelers looking to enjoy the best restaurants, private tours, and upscale private hotels fit here. For this standard of vacation, you can expect to spend at least AUD 500 per day

WHERE TO STAY IN AUSTRALIA

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in Australia. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN AUSTRALIA

Australia is a massive country so you definitely need to heed the warnings behind planned drive times and distances between cities. You’ll want to er on the side of a conservative plan unless you can be flexible and have unlimited time to explore.

The best ways to get around are by plane or car. If you can’t drive, you can often meet other travelers in hostels or online and pitch in for gasoline, or you could join an organized tour.

FLIGHTS:  The quickest way to get around if you’re short on time is to fly between cities and rent a vehicle when you arrive at your destination. Most of Australia and Tasmania is well connected with flights.

BUS:  Australia has an extensive Greyhound bus system that operates up the East Coast for travelers. If you don’t want to drive, this is a great option for getting around to the most popular areas of the country.

CAR RENTAL:  If you have more time, the best way to experience Australia is to road trip. Rent a car or  campervan  and explore the many excellent road trip routes on the east and west coasts or down the middle! Check out  Discover Rental Cars  for great deals.

TRAIN:  While there are a couple of popular and quite famous train routes in Australia, this is not a good way to rely on getting around. Connectivity between cities is limited and you’ll find that most train options are of the luxury variety.

TOP AUSTRALIA TOURS

Best of australia.

14 Days Cairns to Sydney Visits: Airlie Beach, Whitsundays, Brisbane, Byron Bay & Blue Mtns

MELBOURNE, OUTBACK & ULURU

12 Days Melbourne to Uluru Visits: Mornington, Port Campbell, Adelaide, Grampians & Uluru

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA-NAT GEO

12 Days Sydney to Melbourne Visits: Sydney, Cairns, Port Douglas, Uluru & Melbourne

WHEN TO VISIT AUSTRALIA

When you travel to Australia, don’t forget how vast this country is. Each region (and not just state) has its own climate, and some places are better to travel to at different times of the year.

Generally speaking,  the further north you travel, the hotter and more humid it gets . Queensland and the north of WA have a tropical climate; you’ll want to visit in the dry season, between March and October.

Tasmania, Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide have a cooler climate and are best visited in summer when it’s hot!

ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO SEE KANGAROOS!

Safety in australia.

Australia is a very safe country to visit in terms of crime; however, tourists need to be aware of the hazards that the harsh Australian climate might pose during their trip.

When planning an Australian travel itinerary, beware of the vast distances involved if you’re driving. Drivers also need to be aware of the dangers posed by animals, such as kangaroos bounding across the road.

Wildfires are common, particularly in summer, in rural areas. In tropical regions in the north, roads can quickly flood during storms and cyclones.

Travelers also need to be careful of poisonous snakes and spiders (although these rarely cause harm) as well as jellyfish and crocodiles in certain parts of the country (again, usually only a problem in the tropical north!).

Being informed and prepared is the best way to stay safe while traveling. Be sure to check out  our safety tips & advice  from more than 20 years of world travel.

AUSTRALIA TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Australia travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Australia and start planning your dream trip.

25 Top Things to Do in Australia (On Your First Visit!)

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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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Australia Travel Guide

Your ultimate australia travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in australia. great for first-time and returning travelers..

G’Day Mate! Known for its teeming natural and cultural treasures, The Land Down Under has the perfect something for every type of traveler.

There are so many great things to do in Australia .

Relax on the gorgeous beaches along its extensive coastline; embark on an exciting adventure, like going on on a walkabout.

Or try Great White Shark cage diving, or head on over to the cosmopolitan cities of Sydney and/or Melbourne to enjoy shopping, fine dining, and a budding art scene.

This Australia travel guide and list of things to do will help you plan your next vacation.

The only problem with scouring through this Australia travel guide is that once you visit this massive island continent, you might not want to leave!

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• Visit Australia

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Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Australia

• Australian power voltage is 230 V 50 Hz; Power sockets I
• The local currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD) and is around 1.20 AUD to 1 USD
• Bush fires are common in Australia from late spring to summer; during this period please observe simple safety precautions. Make sure to research risks before travelling and when camping, use only designated fireplaces, while also complying with road warning signs and fire bans.
• The emergency services (police, fire, ambulance) number in Australia (equivalent to 911 in North America), is  000 (Zero-Zero-Zero)
• You can rent a mobile phone from such providers as RebelFone, Vodafone Rental, Landwide and Cellhire. 
• In general, if you do not already have a GSM phone,  it is less expensive to rent a phone for short stays.

Things to See and Do in Australia

• Take a Helicopter Ride over the Great Barrier Reef  – A flight over the reef gives you the opportunity to appreciate just how massive this system is.
• Paddle Board in the Oldest Rainforest on Earth  – What better way to spend an afternoon than a lazy float along the river?
• See the wildlife of Kangaroo Island 
• Take Flight on a Hot Air Balloon –   Step back in time and fly high in the sky as you take in sunrise over the Gold Coast. As you fly over farmland and wide open spaces you’ll spy kangaroos and finish off with a champagne breakfast at a local vineyard.
• Fly over the Flinders Ranges to view the spectacular Wilpena Pound
• Swim with some Great Whites – jump into the water with some of the most majestic creatures of the ocean world.
• Take a Dolphin Swim in Shark Country  – get up close and personal with the dolphins of Baird Bay, but don’t stray too far from the guide!
• Take the Ultimate Scuba Adventure  – explore this underwater paradise by joining one of the many dive expeditions that explore the reef system on a daily basis. From snorkeling near the safety of a pontoon on the inner reefs to extreme exposed ocean diving out at Osprey Reef, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

More Australia Travel Guides

• Kangaroo Island Wildlife Sanctuaries
• 12 Amazing Australian Wildlife Experiences
• 23 of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Australia
• Maria Island – Escape from Civilization in Australia
• Koala Sanctuary – Cuteness in South Australia
• Things to do in Brisbane – Everything You Need to Know

Accommodation

Budget : Hostels in Australia typically go for $20 – $25 AUD per night. But hostels can go as high as $100 AUD per night for a double room.  Wake Up Sydney  is a popular hostel

You can get private rooms in other hostels for around $50 UAD

Mid Rang e – You can get budget hotels around Australia for $150 AUD. They typically have basic amenities but are clean and modern and include free WiFi.

High End  – Australia has some beautiful luxury accommodation around the country. From rainforest retreats to coastal estates. Prices can go for thousands of dollars per night, but you can get a luxury hotel for $300-$500 AUD

• Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

Food : Australia has a wide variety of eateries including fast food, but it is all pricey. The good news is you don’t have to tip in Australia. But expect to pay $20 a meal so budget at least $50 AUD for food per day in Australia.

• Kangaroo meat can be purchased from the supermarket, butcher and is available on restaurant menus as a leaner and healthier alternative to beef or lamb with a 1-2 percent fat content.
• Vegemite, try some!  This yeast spread has the same consistency as peanut butter and is an Australian food staple
• Fun Fact:  Australia’s former Prime Minister held the Guinness World Record for beer chugging.

The Best Ways to Get Around Australia

Getting to australia:.

Getting to Australia:  Australia’s major airports are Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane.

Airline fly direct from London, South East Asia and the West Coast of Canada and the United States – Vancouver and Los Angeles

Flights:   You can check for the best flights to Australia on   Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Australia is a huge country and getting around can take time. We flew between states to get from one city to another with Virgin, Air New Zealand and Quantas.

Buses : Buses are a cheap way to travel between cities. Greyhound is the main busline. But be prepared for long journeys.

Taxis:   Taxis start at $4.00 AUD depending on the city. (ranges from $3.50 – $5.00) and then charge 1.50 to $3.00 depending on the city. Check out  NUMBEO  for up to date fares.

Car Rental:   Car rentals are the best option for traveling around Australia. Campervans and Caravanning is still a very popular way to explore the continent. Prices for car rentals start at $25 per day and can go up to $100 per day for a premium car. We’ve used  VroomVroomVroom  when traveling Australia. You can also compare  prices here .

Many people purchase a van to travel around Australia and it is a great option to have the freedom to take your time and save money.

Uber:  We have used Uber in Australia and it is an excellent option.

When to go To Australia

Australia has reasonable weather all year round. It is a large country though, so you want to check out each place region by region.

Some part of Australia have tropical or Mediterranean climates, while others are desert and temporal. Northern states are typically warm year-round with two seasons: wet or dry. Southern states have cooler winters.

Australia seasons are the opposite of North America and Europe: December to February: summer. March to May: autumn; June to August: winter; and September to November: spring. We always suggest traveling during shoulder season for cheaper prices and fewer crowds.

Queensland has two seasons, wet and dry. Wet runs from Nov-April and Dry is May-Oct Queensland is split up between two climates the Tropical North and Temporal Queensland. The wet season is hot and humid and you can expect tropical thunderstorms and even hurricanes. That said, we traveled to Queensland in Feb and had mostly sunny skies with just short, intense rains each day. There are far fewer tourists during the rainy season and we found our travels to be very pleasant. See all the things to do in Brisbane The dry season is still hot but there is less humidity: 28 degrees Celcius, (84 Fahrenheit) but nights are cooler. Swimming is better at this time of year with less chance of crocodiles and jellyfish. Crowds are much worse and rates are higher. So it is a trade-off.

South Australia

This is the driest state in the country and it is very large. The hottest and driest months are during the summer in Jan-Feb Late Feb-March is the best time to visit the Capital City of Adelaide Adelaide has wet winters. Summer and high season here is Dec – Feb with an average temperature of 28 degrees Celcius, (84 Fahrenheit) Spring and Autumn are best for shoulder season March-May and Sept – November, temperatures are pleasant and there are fewer crowds March-May is another great shoulder season travel time with temperatures dropping in 15 degrees Celcius (60 Fahrenheit) South Australia has a large portion of the outback in its borders and travel in shoulder season is much more pleasant than the hot summers

New South Wales, Sydney

Sydney typically sees 340 sunny days a year, so you can’t go wrong anytime. Summer and high season here is Dec – Feb with an average temperature of 28 degrees Celcius, (84 Fahrenheit) Spring and Autumn are best for shoulder season March-May and Sept – November, temperatures are pleasant and there are fewer crowds March-May is another great shoulder season travel time with temperatures dropping in 15 degrees Celcius (60 Fahrenheit) South Australia has a large portion of the outback in its borders and travel in shoulder season is much more pleasant than the hot summers

Melbourne  possibly has the most changeable weather in Australia. March-May  is the best time to visit with a lot of festivals going on. It’s shoulder season right after summer. Sept – Nov  is second best. Temperatures are more moderate at these times of the year. Dec-Feb  is summer and is peak season in Victoria. Temperatures are hot and the crowds are dense. Imagine having to jockey for a position to see the twelve apostles. That said, we visited Victoria in January and by doing the  Great Ocean Walk,  we avoided all crowds as we hiked the coast for four days. Go during shoulder season  and you’ll be happier. June – August –  unlike other cities in Australia – Melbourne is cold and dreary during the winter months.

Ayers Rock is a popular stop on the tourist trail. It’s at the top end of Australia and season are a bit different here. Ayers Rock Wet season : October to April Dry Season : May to September Winter  can fall below freezing at night and summer can go above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Where to Stay in Australia

• Gold Coast –  Peppers Beach Club
• Sydney –  Grace Hotel
• Melbourne –  Travelodge South Bank
• Daintree Rainforest – Silky Oaks Lodge
• Brisbane –  Spicer’s Balfour
• Brisbane –  Regatta Boutique Hotel

Australia Accommodation Guides

• Where To Stay In Melbourne – A Guide To The Best Neighborhoods
• 18 Great Things to do in Queensland, Australia

What to Pack for Australia

Due to the sheer size of the continent, the weather in Australia varies significantly depending on where you want to travel.

Northern states experience warm weather year-round while the southern states experience cooler winters.

Australia is also one of the driest continents on the earth with an average annual rainfall of fewer than 600 millimeters.

Remember that Australia’s seasons are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere! 

• Pack  sunscreen  –  Australian sun is very strong. Always wear a shirt, hat, sunglasses, and SPF 30+ sunscreen lotion, even on cloudy days. 
• Layers – When traveling to different climates remember that layering is the key to effortlessly transitioning from cold to hot climates or vice versa.
• Bug spray –  mosquitoes and sand gnats are a nuisance that can be prevented with bug spray and a handy mosquito net. If you visit the Outback, the latter is a must-have. Ticks are also common in the wilderness and, should you be bitten, a pair of tweezers will enable you to remove the pest from your skin. 
• First Aid Kit – You may be traveling to remote areas, so have a good stocked first aid kit
• Hiking Gear –  for travelers heading up to the Northern Territory, consider packing hiking shoes/trainers, a hat and a water bottle. Also, pack clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty (due to the red dirt of the desert) and avoid packing light colors.
• See our packing tips for travel for all  travel gear, camera gear  and  clothing  we pack for travel.

See our packing tips:  packing tips.

• Sun is the biggest factor for safety. Drink plenty of fluids, wear sunscreen or sun hats and stay covered up.
• Beaches have a lot of rips and currents so always swim between the flags so lifeguards can see you.
• Swimming on the beaches of Tropical Queensland can have a risk of Crocodiles Talk to locals and follow the signs.
• Avoid swimming at mouths of rivers where crocodiles like to hang out.
• Deadly stingers are a real threat at certain times of the year (Nov-April)
• When bushwalking – wear long pants and high hiking boots to avoid snake bites
• When driving through the outback make sure your vehicle is in good shape and have extra food and water.

Australia Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Australia Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Australia  click here.

Australian Food: 24 Australian Dishes You Have to Try

The Best Things to do in Melbourne, Australia

10 Fun Facts About Australia

The land down under may seem like a world away, but it’s a dynamic destination that caters to music lovers and fashionistas, urban adventurers and discerning gastronomes, the nature-intrigued and seasoned outdoors explorers. Now reopen to international travelers, Australia beckons with all that it offers. You may come for the very great barrier reef in Queensland and discover scuba diving led by Indigenous guides; or pair Victoria’s ski scene with its wine scene. Maybe you should consider a longer trip...

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When’s the best time to go to Australia?

It’s hard to find a wrong time to visit Australia. Winter is June to August, when most of Australia hits a low season. This is the time to ski in the Kosciusko National Park or on Victoria’s Mount Hotham. It’s also the best time to visit northern Australia.

Between May and September the Northern Territory, northwestern Australia, and Queensland offer ideal weather. In summer, these areas swelter, either too humid or too hot, inciting some travelers to make a U-turn to more friendly climes down south.

From September to May, southern Australia is at its peak. Every other traveler looking for antipodean escapades arrives at this time of year, but there’s plenty of land to go around. December to February have most Sydneysiders and Melbournians pumping up the air-conditioning, while braver tourists define new tan lines on Bondi and Manly beaches.

How to get around Australia

They don’t call Australia “the land down under” for nothing. It’s a long flight from just about anywhere. And once you’re here, the various must-see destinations are spread over vast distances, so some logistical planning is necessary.

As of 2022, there were nine nonstop inbound flights to Australia from the U.S., stopping in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or Perth. Interstate flights are easily accomplished via Qantas, Jetstar, Tiger, and Virgin.

To see the whole continent in under a month is a serious undertaking and will involve trains, planes, a few automobiles, boats, and a ferry or two.

A less daunting project would be to take on the East Coast in one trip, spending time in Sydney and Melbourne, exploring Adelaide and the Great Ocean road by car, taking a car-ferry or flight to Tasmania, popping in to Canberra, and jetting up to Queensland for the tropical experience.

Western Australia is simple to navigate by train, car, or tour bus, but don’t even think about going into the outback alone in summer.

The interior outback, known as the Red Center, is best reached by organized tour, available as luxury excursions, adventure operations, backpacker units, and every other imaginable collective. You can take four-wheel-drives off road, but carry water (five liters per day, per person), bring a high-frequency radio transceiver, and be sure to respect Aboriginal sacred land, national park rules, and animal crossings at dusk and dawn. (Neither party comes out well from an on-road clash with a large kangaroo.)

Food and drink to try in Australia

Foreigners’ overused jokey adage to “throw another shrimp on the barbie” no longer sticks. First of all, Australians call them prawns. Second, Australian gastronomy has surpassed the humble barbecue. It remains a happy summer stalwart in backyards across the country, but what happens elsewhere is more interesting. The country’s food scene has been largely overlooked abroad, and for the most part the global food media have shunned Australia’s culinary experience, focusing instead on its cuddly native critters and extraordinary landscapes. It’s also true that the nation’s food culture is really coming of age. What was a less than inspiring restaurant scene just a couple of decades ago has blossomed in recent years. Restaurants such as Attica, Quay, Sepia, and Flower Drum can stand up to the world’s best.

Culture in Australia

The new year kicks off the traditional cycle, and less than a month later the country celebrates Australia Day. Officially it marks the anniversary of the arrival of the British in Sydney on January 26, 1788. Mindful of the original inhabitants of the land, the day is now simply a celebration of being Australian. Folks light the barbecue, play cricket on the beach, and take to the outdoors. Every happy Australian stereotype comes out on one glorious public holiday. Parties don’t come much more mind-blowing than the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade , the biggest of its kind in the world. Go along to cheer on the sequined, feathered, Lycra-wearing ensemble as they celebrate equal rights.

Hippies, rockers, folk fans, indie types, country listeners, jazz groovers: There are festivals across Australia for every sort of music lover. Travel north to Byron Bay to revel in the stunning bushland setting of Splendor in the Grass , and go to Victoria for the Falls Festival , relocated from Tasmania following a two-year pandemic hiatus. See where Keith Urban started his career at the Tamworth Country Music Festival . There’s Tropfest for film lovers, and the Sydney, Melbourne, or Byron Bay Writers Festivals for the more literary.

Local travel tips for Australia

Australia is a wide, stunning, varied land. To travel around it well requires great research and good advice. Locals love nothing better than spouting off about their favorite places, the best eats, the must-nots and must-dos. “Shout” (buy) a local a beer and you’ll get better insider advice than you could from a guidebook, and probably a really good laugh.

Guide Editor

Kate Gibbs and Laura Dannen Redman

Plan Your Trip to Australia: 7 Top Itineraries

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Jul 26, 2022

Australia is a land of staggering contrasts spread out over a landmass almost as big as the continental US, so planning the perfect itinerary entails pinpointing your preferences. Coral reefs, islands, rainforests, and ravishing beaches rim the coast, and rugged canyons and red deserts of haunting beauty stretch across the interior.

To get the most out of your visit to Australia, it's best to fly between the top places to visit and concentrate on a particular area of the country. If it's your first visit to the Land Down Under, you might want to start with a version of the top Australia itinerary on our trip planner: Sydney, Rainforest, & Reef, highlighting the east coast's most popular tourist attractions. Then, depending on your interests and time constraints, you can use the other Australia itineraries, organized by region, as building blocks to customize your adventures.

Travel to Australia can require some long flights — especially if you're visiting from the Northern Hemisphere. A week to 10 days is the minimum recommended time to visit Australia, as distances are vast, and jet lag can take a couple of days to pass. Note that if you're planning to see the highlights of both the east coast and the west coast, it takes about five hours to fly from Sydney to Perth.

Wherever and whenever you decide to go, Australia is one of the world's most rewarding places to visit, with spectacular scenery, incredible wildlife, and some of the friendliest people on the planet.

Plan your trip with these top Australia itineraries.

1. Sydney, Rainforest & Reef

2. the northern territory: the top end & the red centre, 3. queensland: the sunshine coast, fraser island, & the whitsunday islands, 4. melbourne and the great ocean road, 5. western australia: perth, coral reefs, broome, and the kimberley, 6. south australia: adelaide, the barossa & clare valleys, and kangaroo island, 7. tasmania: the apple isle loop, map of australia: top itineraries, when is the best time to visit australia.

East Coast Itinerary Highlights : Sydney, Blue Mountains, Cairns/Port Douglas, Daintree Rainforest, Kuranda, the Great Barrier Reef

Visiting Australia for the first time? This itinerary is ideal if you only have about a week to 10 days to see the highlights. It offers a quintessential slice of the stunning east coast.

Start in Sydney and visit all the iconic attractions such as the Sydney Opera House , the Sydney Harbour Bridge , Bondi Beach , and the Rocks . After exploring the top attractions in the city , choose from an alluring line-up of day trips from Sydney . The Blue Mountains is one of the most popular.

From Sydney, fly up to Cairns , the most popular gateway to Far North Queensland's top tropical attractions, including the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest ; the quaint rainforest village of Kuranda ; and Cape Tribulation , where two of the world's richest ecosystems (rainforest and reef) merge in a sublime mingling of blues and greens.

Alternatively, you can base yourself in the sleepy tropical town of Port Douglas (about 60 minutes' drive north of Cairns). It lies a little closer to the reef, and charms visitors with its relaxed tropical feel and friendly locals. If you have more time, consider adding on some of the itineraries below.

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Sydney, Australia

Northern Territory Itinerary Highlights : Darwin, Kakadu National Park, Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge), Alice Springs, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon)

The Northern Territory offers a taste of the Australian Outback. Stark red deserts, magnificent rock formations, and spectacular wilderness areas are some of the top things to see here.

Fly into Darwin, the main gateway for the tropical Top End, as it's called in Australia. Stay a night or two here soaking up all the fun attraction in Darwin , such as the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Market , the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory , and Stokes Hill Wharf. Thrill seekers can cage-dive with saltwater crocodiles at Crocosaurus Cove .

From Darwin, rent a car and drive about 255 kilometers to World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park , Australia's largest national park and one of the planet's most awe-inspiring wilderness areas. Take a Yellow Water or Guluyambi boat cruise to see crocodiles and water birds, or hike to ancient Aboriginal cave paintings.

From Kakadu, you can drive about 180 kilometers to Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park , with its series of 13 stunning steep-walled gorges. Explore the area on a scenic cruise, hike the trails, or paddle along the Katherine River in a kayak or canoe.

From the nearby town of Katherine, fly to Alice Springs in Australia's Red Centre. This is the gateway to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park , where Uluru (formerly Ayers Rock), one of Australia's top tourist attractions, rises 348 meters above the red-hued desert. About 40 kilometers from here, you can explore the dome-shaped rocks called Kata Tjuta (the Olgas).

If you have time, drive about 290 kilometers from Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon) for more breathtaking outback scenery and one of Australia's top hiking trails : Kings Canyon Rim Walk .

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Australia's Northern Territory

Central & Southeast Queensland Coastal Itinerary Highlights : Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Fraser Island, Hervey Bay, Airlie Beach, the Whitsunday Islands

Sun, sea, sand, and sailing are the top attractions of this tour through Southeast and Central Queensland. Fly into the Sunshine Coast airport in Marcoola (one hour and 35 minutes flight time from Sydney), and explore some of the Sunshine Coast's surf-lapped beach towns and gorgeous beaches .

Soak up the scene with a stroll along the Mooloolaba Boardwalk, one of the top things to do in Mooloolaba ; surf some waves at Coolum Beach ; or bask on the beaches of Caloundra . Traveling on a budget? Take your pick from some of the best campgrounds on the Sunshine Coast .

If you're looking for a stylish base, stay in the beautiful beach resort of Noosa Heads . You can rest your head at some of the Sunshine Coast's top resorts. While you're here, hike through Noosa National Park ; spend an afternoon on magnificent Main Beach , swimming, surfing, or sunning; and stroll along Hastings Street , with its fantastic restaurants and boutique shops.

From Noosa, you can take day trips to explore all the top things to do on the Sunshine Coast . Save time, too, for a visit to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Here, you can visit cute country towns like Maleny and nearby Montville.

You can also join a tour to K'Gari (Fraser Island ), the world's largest sand island, or rent a 4WD and embark on a self-drive tour of this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. Stay a night or two exploring the sparkling freshwater lakes, sweeping beaches, dunes, shipwrecks, and rainforests.

Hervey Bay , the gateway to Fraser Island, is also worth a visit. Whale watching is one of the most popular activities here, as well as fishing, sailing, and a range of other water sports.

From Marcoola, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport in Proserpine (PPP). It's about 25 kilometers from Airlie Beach , the gateway to the idyllic Whitsunday Islands . From here, charter a boat and sail around these sun-soaked islands strung along the southern stretches of the Great Barrier Reef, or hop aboard a multi-island cruise.

Popular islands include family-friendly Daydream Island , Hamilton Island (the only Whitsunday island with its own airport), Long Island , and Hook Island . For a luxury island hideaway, hop aboard a helicopter to Hayman Island . With its silky soft silica sand, Whitehaven Beach is one of the top beaches in Australia and a must-see destination on your island-hopping adventure.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Queensland

Victoria Itinerary Highlights : Melbourne, The Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island Penguin Parade, Mornington Peninsula, Grampians National Park, Wilsons Promontory, the Yarra Valley, and Dandenong Ranges

Australia's rugged south coast is home to one of the country's most staggeringly beautiful stretches of coastline. Fly into Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria , and explore all the fantastic restaurants, shops, museums, galleries, and other attractions.

From here, you can choose from an adventure-filled list of Melbourne day trips . The most famous is a self-drive or guided tour along The Great Ocean Road , one of Australia's most breathtaking scenic drives. In Port Campbell National Park , gape at the Twelve Apostles , the wind-sculpted rock formations rising from the thrashing surf. Hike the Great Ocean Walk or, for a bird's-eye view, fly over the coast in a helicopter. In Torquay , surfers can ride the legendary swells of Bells Beach or visit the Australian National Surfing Museum .

In the hinterland, lush forests, zipline adventures, and treetop walking tours await. Other popular day trips from Melbourne include the Phillip Island Penguin Parade and the golden beaches of the Mornington Peninsula .

For fantastic hiking and bushland scenery, venture to Grampians National Park (260 kilometers from Melbourne), Wilsons Promontory (200 kilometers from Melbourne), or the Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges (25 kilometers from Melbourne).

Western Australia Itinerary Highlights : Perth, the Margaret River, Ningaloo Reef, Broome, the Kimberley

About a five-hour flight from Australia's east coast, Western Australia is a wonderland of wilderness areas, wildlife, coral reefs, and beautiful beaches. This diverse and sparsely populated state is often overlooked by international travelers due to its distance from Sydney, but it delivers jaw-dropping beauty without the crowds.

Look at a map of Australia, and you'll see the ebullient state capital of Perth flung in the southwestern corner of this vast state. Start your tour here, and spend a day or two exploring all the attractions in the city .

Save time to venture out of the city, too. Day trips from Perth are particularly appealing. Take a cruise up the winding Swan River to the Swan Valley , or down river to Fremantle , Perth's vibrant port city. From Fremantle, you can also catch a ferry to ravishing Rottnest Island , rimmed by beautiful white-sand beaches and turquoise shallows.

Spend a few days at the Margaret River , about a three-hour drive from Perth. This prime grape-growing district offers great surf breaks, beautiful beaches, scenic coastal hikes, and a bounty of fresh produce and artisan foods.

After a taste of the city and surrounds, fly from Perth to Broome (flight time 2.5 hours) and ride a camel at sunset along the sweeping sands of Cable Beach . Want to get your heart pumping? Head to Horizontal Falls. One of Australia's top outdoor adventures , this exhilarating experience usually includes a seaplane flight over the falls and the rugged red cliffs of the northwest coast to Cape Leveque . Then you touch down for a succulent seafood lunch on the water, and a jet boat ride through the falls.

If you have more time, venture deep into the rugged Kimberley to see spectacular Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Mitchell Falls, or plan a rugged 4WD adventure along the Gibb River Road . Return to Perth.

Still more time? Fly from Perth to Exmouth (a two-and-a-half-hour flight to Learmonth airport) and explore nearby World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef , the world's largest fringing reef. Easily accessible from shore, this rich ecosystem is famous for the whale sharks that swim here from March through October, and you can swim with these gentle giants on an organized tour.

With more than 500 species of fish and 300 species of coral, the marine reserve is also a prime diving, snorkeling, and fishing destination . From here, drive 50 minutes to Cape Range National Park with its red-hued gorges and rugged canyons.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Western Australia

South Australia Itinerary Highlights : Adelaide, the Barossa & Clare Valleys, Kangaroo Island, Flinders Ranges National Park

Sophisticated yet refreshingly slow paced, Adelaide is one of Australia's underrated cities and the gateway to the top places to visit in South Australia .

Spend a day or two in this gracious state capital exploring the many museums, galleries, and gardens. Then rent a car and drive about an hour from the city to the beautiful Barossa Valley (about 60 kilometers north of Adelaide) and the Clare Valley . These fertile lands are prime grape-growing regions and favorite foodie destinations, thanks to their bounty of fresh produce and fantastic restaurants.

From Adelaide, you can also drive about 45 minutes south to the pretty Fleurieu Peninsula. This scenic region offers golden beaches, great surf, farms, and more fabulous restaurants.

From the Fleurieu Peninsula, catch a ferry to Kangaroo Island, one of the state's top tourist destinations. You can also fly here in about 30 minutes from Adelaide. The island is famous for its pristine beaches and abundant wildlife. Fresh local produce is also a highlight — among the many gourmet delights are fresh seafood, free-range eggs, and Ligurian honey.

Close-up wildlife viewing is one of the top things to do on Kangaroo Island . In addition to the island's namesake marsupials, you can also see koalas, seal lions, New Zealand fur seals, echidnas, penguins, whales, and many species of birds. Save time to visit Flinders Chase National Park, with its strangely contorted rock formations and scenic hiking trails, as well as the fascinating limestone caves of Kelly Hill Conservation Park .

If you have more time, consider adding a safari to your itinerary and plan a road trip to Flinders Ranges National Park. About a five-hour drive from Adelaide, it's a favorite haunt of artists and photographers who appreciate the rich hues of shifting light on the arid landscapes.

Highlights : Hobart, Port Arthur Historic Site, Freycinet National Park, Launceston, Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, Mount Field National Park

Tasmania (affectionately called "Tassie" by the Aussies) is a nirvana for nature lovers. The island is Australia's smallest state and an ideal destination for a self-drive tour. Almost half of its landmass is protected by national parks and World Heritage Areas, providing a pristine playground of wild rivers, misty peaks, lakes, and densely wooded forests. It's also called "the Apple Isle" because it was once one of the world's major apple producers.

Today, the state is famous for its fabulous fresh produce and artisan foods. No matter where you go, save time to savor some succulent seafood, fresh fruits, and creamy cheeses along the way. This loop through some of Tasmania's top attractions takes about five or six days plus a night or two in Hobart at each end.

Fly into Hobart, the state capital, and drive or hike to the top of kunanyi (Mount Wellington) for spectacular views over the city. Browse the shops and galleries at Salamanca Place and see cutting edge art at MONA.

After exploring Hobart , drive about an hour southeast of Hobart and tour the Port Arthur Historic Site , a former penal colony and one of the top things to do in Tasmania . After this sobering dose of convict history, explore the rugged sea cliffs and sheltered coves of nearby Tasman National Park . About 55 minutes from Hobart by car and ferry, Bruny Island is also worth a visit. Take a tasting tour of the island's gourmet treats and artisan produce, or explore the natural beauty of South Bruny National Park .

From Hobart, drive 2.5 hours northeast to World Heritage-listed Freycinet National Park for superb scenery and the perfect slice of white-sand beach at dazzling Wineglass Bay . You can explore the park on scenic drives and hiking trails — the Wineglass Bay Circuit is one of the top hikes in Australia .

From Freycinet National Park , drive about two hours to charming Launceston , Tasmania's second largest town. Here, you can admire the elegant Victorian architecture on heritage trails, visit beautiful Cataract Gorge, and tour World Heritage-listed country estates not far from the city.

From Launceston, drive south to Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park and explore stunning landscapes featuring alpine heathland, glacier-carved crags, sparkling lakes, and ancient forests. From here, drive about two hours to Strahan , a great base to explore the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park . Cruise along the Gordon River, or raft the whitewater rapids of the mighty Franklin River, one of Australia's top outdoor adventures.

From Strahan, drive 300 kilometers back to Hobart through Tasmania's World Heritage-listed wilderness areas. If you have time, stop by Mount Field National Park on the way. Hike the beautiful nature trails and see triple-tiered waterfalls.

The best time to visit Australia depends on where you want to go. To maximize your sightseeing, it's a good idea to avoid the tropics in the wet season (December to April), but every season offers unique experiences.

Winter (June through August) is a wonderful time to visit the Red Centre, when desert temperatures are milder during the day. Winter is also the dry season in Far North Queensland and the Whitsundays, which typically means sunny days and comfortable temperatures for swimming and island hopping. And of course, winter is a prime time to play in Australia's best ski resorts .

Summer (December through February) is a great time to visit the southern states, especially Tasmania. At this time of year, the warm, sunny days are perfect for basking on some of Australia's best beaches .

Planning to visit several destinations? Spring and autumn in Australia are usually good times to visit most parts of the country.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Australia Travel Itinerary Ideas : If you're planning a trip around Australia and you're looking for some thrills, check out our article on the Top Outdoor Adventures in Australia , from snorkeling with whale sharks to four-wheel driving on the golden beaches of Fraser Island.

Anglers will find some fantastic fishing. Discover the top spots with our list of the best fishing destinations in Australia . You can fly fish for trout, hook a marlin, or cast to cobia on crystal-clear flats.

Is trekking more your style? Add some of the top hikes Down Under to your Australia itinerary. Tackle the rugged Kings Canyon Rim Walk in the Northern Territory or climb to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia's highest peak.

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More than most other countries, Australia seizes the imagination. For many visitors its name is synonymous with endless summers where the living is easy. This is where the adventures are as vast as the horizons and the jokes flow as freely as the beer – a country of can-do spirit and laidback friendliness. No wonder Australians call theirs the Lucky Country.

Interesting facts about Australia

Where to go in australia, best places to visit in australia, best time to travel to australia, australian life and culture, the outback, australia’s indigenous people, eccentric australia, gay and lesbian australia, tailor-made travel itineraries for australia, created by local experts.

12 days  / from 2900 USD

Explore Western Australia from Perth to Broome

Western Australia is the country's largest state, covering more than a third of Australia. This self drive itinerary allows you to explore sunny Perth, stunning national parks and waterfalls, the remote wild west outback, empty beaches and much more.

16 days  / from 3300 USD

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory on this self-drive adventure. Start in Adelaide and make your way over the Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, and Alice Springs to the Kakadu National Park and ultimately Darwin.

23 days  / from 4150 USD

Cross Western Australia to Darwin

Western Australia offers wonderfully remote outback experiences: from spectacular national parks to sandy deserts, pristine beaches to working cattle stations. This itinerary allows you to explore the way from Perth to Darwin in depth and at your own pace, in your own rental car.

Tailor-made trips for   Australia

• With an area of just over 7.5 million square kilometres, Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world.
• Australia’s population is estimated at just over 22 million, of whom some 85 percent live in urban areas. About 92 percent are of European origin, two percent Aboriginal, and around six percent Asian and Middle Eastern.
• Much of Australia is arid and flat. One-third is desert and another third steppe or semi-desert. Only six percent of the country rises above 600m in elevation, and its tallest peak , Mount Kosciuszko, is just 2228m high.
• Australia’s main exports are minerals, metals, fossil fuels, cotton, wool, wine and beef, and its most important trading partners are Japan, China and the USA.
• At 5614km the dingo fence is the longest in the world, stretching from Jimbour to the cliffs of the Nullarbor Plain. It’s around twice the length of the Great Wall of China.
• Australia ranks proudly ranks second in the Human Development Index , which measures a country’s progress by its life expectancy, education and income. Norway comes first.
• Around 22 percent of Australians are descended from convicts .

For visitors, deciding where to go can mean juggling distance, money and time. With an expanse of places to visit, Australia’s tourism means that you could spend months driving around the Outback , exploring the national parks, or hanging out at beaches; or you could take an all-in, two-week “Sydney, Reef and Rock” package, encompassing Australia’s outstanding trinity of must-sees. These are just some of the top places to go in Australia.

Both options provide thoroughly Australian experiences, but either will leave you with a feeling of having merely scraped the surface of this vast country. Visit Australia and experience the two big natural attractions: the 2000km-long Great Barrier Reef off the Queensland coast, with its complex of islands and underwater splendour, and the brooding monolith of Uluru (Ayers Rock), in the Northern Territory’s Red Centre.

Sydney is the jewel in Australia’s navel. Famous as one of the world’s great gay cities, it attracts LGBTQ visitors from around the world. Melbourne closely follows, but there are scenes in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and to a lesser extent in Perth, Adelaide, Hobart and Darwin.

Away from the cities, things get more discreet, but a lot of country areas do have friendly local scenes – impossible to pinpoint, but easy to stumble across. However, Outback mainstays of mining and cattle ranching are not famed for their tolerance of homosexuality, so tread carefully in remote destinations.

Discover more places in Australia

• Outback Queensland Travel Guide
• South Australia Travel Guide
• Sydney Travel Guide
• Tasmania Travel Guide
• Victoria Travel Guide
• Western Australia

Blue Mountains (New South Wales)

World Heritage-listed, the Blue Mountains are a wonderland of ancient forests, deep valleys and lookouts from sheer cliffs, all just an hour or so from Sydney.

Travel advice for Australia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Australia

• Eating and drinking in Australia
• Getting around Australia: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health Australia
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Australia
• How to get to Australia
• Travel Tips Australia for planning and on the go
• Travelling with children in Australia
• Best time to visit Australia

Tall Timber Country (Western Australia)

These primeval karri forests are one of WA’s greatest natural sights. Get a bird’s-eye view from the Tree Top Walk.

Wilpena Pound (Southern Australia)

There are some fantastic hikes in the Flinders Ranges National Park but few top the spectacular scenery at the elevated basin of Wilpena Pound.

Sport at the MCG (Victoria)

Taking in a game of cricket or, better still, Aussie Rules football at the venerable Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is a must for any sports fan.

Fraser Island (Queensland)

The giant dunes and freshwater lakes of the world’s largest sand island form the backdrop to popular 4WD safaris.

Sydney harbour (New South Wales)

Scale the bridge, take a harbour ferry to Manly or just marvel at the Opera House sails at the most iconic location in Sydney, a shorthand for Australia itself.

Atherton Tablelands

With its rainforest, crater lakes and abundant wildlife, you could spend days exploring the Atherton Tablelands.

You’ll find reliably warm summers at the coast with regular, but brief, heatwaves in excess of 40°C. Head inland, and the temperatures rise further. Winters, on the other hand, can be miserable, particularly in Victoria , where the short days add to the gloom. The best time to travel to Tasmania is year-round: while weather in the highlands is unpredictable at all times, summer is the best time of year to visit Tasmania to explore the island’s outdoor attractions.

Every aspect of Australian life and culture, whether its matey attitudes or its truly great outdoors, is a product of the country’s scale and population – or lack of it. Australia rivals the USA in size, but is home to only 24 million people, giving it one of the lowest population densities on earth. The energy of its contemporary culture is in contrast to a landscape that is ancient and often looks it: much of central and western Australia – the bulk of the country – is overwhelmingly arid and flat. In contrast, its cities, most founded as recently as the mid-nineteenth century, burst with a vibrant, youthful energy.

The most iconic scenery is the Outback, the vast fabled desert that spreads west of the Great Dividing Range into the country’s epic interior. Here, vivid blue skies, cinnamon-red earth, deserted gorges and geological features as bizarre as the wildlife comprise a unique ecology, one that has played host to the oldest surviving human culture for up to 70,000 years (just 10,000 years after Homo sapiens is thought to have emerged from Africa).

This harsh interior has forced modern Australia to become a coastal country. Most of the population lives within 20km of the ocean, the majority of these occupying a suburban, southeastern arc that extends from southern Queensland to Adelaide. Urban Australians celebrate the typical New World values of material self-improvement through hard work and hard play, with an easy-going vitality that visitors, especially Europeans, often find refreshingly hedonistic. A sunny climate also contributes to this exuberance, with an outdoor life in which a thriving beach culture and the congenial backyard “barbie” are central.

Although visitors might eventually find this low-key, suburban lifestyle rather prosaic, there are opportunities – particularly in the Northern Territory – to experience Australia’s indigenous peoples and their culture through visiting ancient art sites, taking tours and, less easily, making personal contact. Many Aboriginal people – especially in central Australia – have managed to maintain a traditional lifestyle (albeit with modern amenities), speaking their own languages and living by their own laws. Conversely, most Aboriginal people in cities and country towns are trapped in a destructive cycle of racism, poverty and lack of meaningful employment opportunities, often resulting in health problems and substance abuse. To give just one example, life expectancy rates for Aboriginal Australians are ten years lower than those of the rest of the population. There’s still a long way to go before black and white people in Australia can exist on genuinely equal terms.

Aboriginal art

Aboriginal art has grown into a million-dollar industry since the first canvas dot paintings of the central deserts emerged in the 1970s. Though seemingly abstract, early canvases are said to replicate ceremonial sand paintings – temporary “maps” fleetingly revealed to depict sacred knowledge. In the tropics, figurative bark and cave paintings are less enigmatic but much older, though until recently they were ceremonially repainted. The unusual X-ray style found in the Top End details the internal structure of animals. The Northern Territory – and Alice Springs, in particular – are the best places to look.

It could be part of the Australian psyche that celebrates renegades. Perhaps it is just the standard set by such utterly odd wildlife as the platypus. Whatever the cause, Australia enjoys eccentricity like few other first-world nations, even down to the playful rough-and-tumble of its slang, Strine. The further you go from the big cities, the quirkier Australia gets. You could base an entire visit around a tour of kitsch sights like the Big Banana at Coffs Harbour, the Big Pineapple at Nambour or the Big Prawn at Ballina; for more inspiration see wilmap.com.au/bigstuff. Country and especially Outback pubs are often reliable outposts of the weird and wonderful. Yet for true glorious weirdness head to small festivals like the World Cockroach Races staged in Brisbane every Australia Day, or Darwin’s riotous Beer Can Regatta in July, with boat races in craft made entirely from beer cans.

Australia is a fixture on the Queer map thanks to its great climate and laidback lifestyle. Sydney is Australia’s gay-friendly capital, especially in March when hundreds of thousands of people pour in for the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras. Despite its reputation as a macho culture, the country revels in a large and active scene: you’ll find an air of confidence and a sense of community that is often missing in other parts of the world.

Sydney is the jewel in Australia’s navel. Famous as one of the world’s great gay cities, it attracts lesbian and gay visitors from around the world. Melbourne closely follows, but there are scenes in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and to a lesser extent Perth, Adelaide, Hobart and Darwin.

Gay and lesbian contacts

• Pinkboard pinkboard.com.au . Popular, long-running website with useful “Graffiti Walls” full of parties, personal ads and classifieds sections with everything from house-shares, party tickets for sale, employment, and a help and advice section. Posting ads is free.
• The Pink Directory thepinkdirectory.com.au . Online directory of gay and lesbian business and community information.
• DNA dnamagazine.com.au . The nation’s best-selling Queer title, an upmarket lifestyle magazine for gay men.

Tourist services and travel agents

• GALTA (Gay and Lesbian Tourism Australia) galta.com.au . An online resource and nonprofit organization that promotes the gay and lesbian tourism industry with good links.
• Gay Travel gaytravel.com . Online travel agent, concentrating mostly on accommodation.
• International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association iglta.org. Trade group with lists of gay-owned or gay-friendly travel businesses.

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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Australia Travel Guide

This Australia Travel Guide aims to provide you with simple and stress-free travel planning information and inspiration for planning a trip to Australia.

On this regularly updated page you will find links to useful posts on The Trusted Traveller, budget information, details on types of accommodation available, information on getting around the country and more useful links to resources around the web.

Quick Facts

Capital: Canberra

Language: English

Currency:  $ Australian Dollars which is made up of 100 cents. Coins come in 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 denominations and notes in $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 denominations.

Electricity:  230 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs with two or three flat pins are standard. Outlets for 110 volts for small appliances can be found in most hotels.

Travel Tips

Australia is made up of eight states and territories; Australian Capital Territory (ACT), New South Wales (NSW), Northern Territory (NT), Queensland (QLD), South Australia (SA), Tasmania (TAS), Victoria (VIC) and Western Australia (WA).

It’s coastline covers almost 60,000 kilometres and is surrounded by the Arafura and Timor Seas to the north, the Coral and Tasman Seas of the South Pacific to the east, the Southern Ocean to the south, and the Indian Ocean to the west.

Exploring Australia means you will likely encounter a wide variety of landscapes. From its pristine beaches, densely populated cities, lush rainforest, rugged mountains and deep red outback; there aren’t many countries that offer such a richly eclectic landscape.

Because Australia is so big, the climate can vary depending on which part of the country you are in and what time of the year it is.

Australia is plagued with extreme weather with 40ºc + temperatures not uncommon in the depths of summers and lows of well below 0ºc in winter. Cyclones and flooding cause havoc up north while bushfires are sadly common in the dry south.

The country is split in two climatic zones: the tropical zone (the north above the Tropic of Capricorn) and the temperate zone (everything south of the Tropic of Capricorn). The tropical zone has two distinct seasons, ‘wet’ (summer) and ‘dry’ (winter), while the temperate zone has all four distinct seasons.

Best Time to Visit

Australia is really an all year-round destination purely because of it’s size.

Spring to summer (October to March) are the most popular times because the majority of the country is warm with hot days and mild nights. Head south for dry heat and try to avoid the tropical north from December to February as it is the wet season with lots of rain, storms and sticky humid conditions.

Autumn to winter (April to September) is a very pleasant time of year to explore the northern and central parts of Australia because of clear warm days and cool nights. You’ll find a little more rain in the south of the country but on average you’ll still get more sunshine. It does snow during the winter months but this is totally confined to the mountains in the south east of the country.

It is always recommend to have a mixture of cash and bank/credit card with you when you travel anywhere in the world and this is no exception in Australia.

ATM’s are available in all cities and towns across the country and credit cards accepted widely too. The exception to this would be in some very small and remote outback towns where it is recommended to have plenty of cash on hand.

Getting There

A large number of major and budget airlines fly direct to capital cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane from New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, Asia and parts of the US and the Middle East. If you are travelling from further afield, you’ll easily be able to find connecting flights through major hubs in Asia, the Middle East and west coast USA.

Remember, Australia a long way from most other parts of the world. It takes almost 20+ hours (with a short stopover) to get from the UK and Europe, and 14+ hours from the US. Asia is a little closer with Singapore and Bangkok about 8 hours away.

I use and recommend Expedia for researching and booking flights all around the world.

Getting Around

Australia is a big country. Bigger than most people actually realise. To give you an idea, if you were to drive from Sydney on the east coast to Perth on the west coast it would take you something like 40 hours without stopping. That is 4,000 kilometres! The same route by air would take you 4 hours.

If you are wanting to cover as much of the country as possible in a short time then flying will be the most efficient method of getting around but it will likely cost you a bit too. While Australia does have budget airlines, they don’t offer the crazy low prices quite like other parts of the world so a bit of research and planning is required to do this on the cheap.

Australia’s major air carrier is Qantas who service every capital city and major rural hub. Catching up with Qantas on popularity is the once budget airline Virgin Australia. They fly between all capital cities and a few of the major hubs as well and offer pricing that is comparative to Qantas, sometimes a little cheaper.

Australia’s budget airlines are Jetstar (part of Qantas) and TigerAir. They both offer lower fares with a budget service, so no meals and you pay extra for carry-on luggage, extra leg-room and entertainment. If your flying regional then it will likely be with REX or one of the many other small regional airlines specific to each region.

If you have a bit more time to spare, Australia is a great country to explore slowly by road, whether it be in a car, van or caravan.

Australia has branches of all the worlds major car hire companies with pick up locations in airports, city centres and some regional centres. Most will offer vehicles in a range of sizes to suit your particular needs.

For longer stays it might be worth buying a used vehicle and then selling it when you leave. Cars, vans, caravans and campervans can all be purchased for as little as a few thousand dollars and sold a few months later to another traveller for about the same price ensuring you don’t really loose any money from it. Gumtree and hostel notice boards are good places to find and later sell, these vehicles.

I use and recommend Hertz for researching and booking car hire all around the world.

Greyhound have an extensive network of buses that cover major cities and tourist hubs the states of New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Northern Territory.

In Western Australia there is TransWA which operates a network of road coaches throughout the state helping you get from Perth to some of the more remote areas of the state.

And in Tasmania Tassielink Transit operate the bus network offering regular route services  across Tasmania that includes cities, regional areas and access to bushwalks.

I use and recommend BusBud when comparing and booking buses all around the world.

Australia hasn’t got any where near as good a rail system as regions like Europe and Asia however if you are a rail enthusiast then you will find two of the worlds most iconic rail journey’s running across the country.

The Ghan runs through the Red Centre from Adelaide to Darwin and The Indian Pacific from Adelaide to Perth. Both offer options for those on budget (still not as cheap as other forms of transport) to those looking for the ultimate in rail travel luxury. Each journey takes a few days to complete with short stops along the way.

Where to Stay

Australia caters for everyone when it comes to accommodation. Here is a list of the types of accommodation you’ll find.

• Camping/Caravans/Cabins – Most National Parks have at least one bush campsite and every second or third town has a holiday park with campsites, caravans and cabins available. Free camping is also available in some areas.
• Hostels – Take your pick from the hundreds of private and chain hostels located in major cities and popular towns around the country. Accommodation in hostels ranges from multi-bed dorm rooms to private single, double and family rooms, with or without shared facilities.

• Budget Motels/Hotels – This type of accommodation is quite popular in Australia and you’ll find at least one or two budget motels/hotels in just about ever town in the country. Most will be clean and functional with private facilities and basic amenities.
• Hotels/Apartments – Just about ever chain hotel brand in the world is represented in Australia’s capital cities and other major towns. The good thing about this type of accommodation is in most cases you know what you are going to get, a clean, comfortable and modern room with a decent array of facilities in the room and on the property. Apartments are great for longer stays as they allow you a bit more space and the option to self cater.

I use and recommend  Booking.com for researching and booking hostel, motel, hotel, apartment and resort accommodation around the world, including Australia.

• Luxury Hotels & Resorts – Every capital city and popular tourist area in Australia has its share of 5 star properties, some of which have been named in top lists of accommodations around the world.

• B&B’s – Small family run style accommodation like B&B’s can be found all over the country in small towns and popular rural locations. Accommodation is simple yet comfortable and the experience usually comes with friendly hosts and a home cooked breakfast each morning.

Eating out in Australia can be expensive in comparison to some other regions of the world. There are ways around this, especially if you willing to stay in self catering accommodation and do some simple cooking from time to time. Eatability offers an excellent website for eating out in Australia. On it you’ll find venues listed by region, cuisine and price with reviews by past diners to help you choose one that suits you.

• Supermarkets – The two big supermarkets you will encounter in most places are Woolworths and Coles. They both offer competitive pricing and just about any grocery item you might be after. In smaller towns you may encounter an IGA which is similar but because of its smaller size you’ll find it a little more expensive. Aldi is a newer supermarket chain which is quickly catching up to the others because of its super cheap prices.
• Fast Food / Take-away – Chain fast food stores are in all major centres of the country and along highways as well. If your looking for a cheap and tasty fast food meal, skip the chains like Maccas (what us Aussies call McDonalds) and go for a local family owned hamburger or fish and chip shops instead. You’ll find at least one of this style of take-away store in every city and town of the country.
• Cafes – Cafes can vary greatly in price and quality depending on the city/town or area of a city/town. Meals range from simple sandwiches and salads to hot dishes made fresh or served from a food warmer. Cafes offer the chance to have a large hot meal at lunch time so in the night time you’ll only need a snack.

• Pubs – Every city or town in Australia has a decent pub. Some small towns with only a few hundred people in them might surprisingly have multiple pubs. Having a schooner, pot, pint or midi (measurements of beer) at the end of a hot day with a simple bistro style meal is just part of the Aussie way. Pubs can vary widely in price these days as a lot in the major cities have been converted to trendy venues serving food that can rival some four start restaurants. However in country towns the meals are cheap and usually made using local produce.
• Restaurants – Just about every cuisine in the world is represented in a restaurant or two in Australia which is one of the reason why I love it so much. Prices in restaurants can vary greatly depending on the location and quality of the food but there are some good cheap ones out there, you just need to dig a little deeper.
• Fine Dining –  Australia has it’s fair share of the worlds best restaurants so if it is fine dining experiences you are after then you won’t be disappointed. Some of the worlds top chefs have been opening new venues in capital cities and sleepy country towns for the past few years giving locals and visitor a taste of the finer side of life.

Read More About Australia

Suggested itineraries.

Long Weekend Travel: 5 Easy Trips from Sydney

Exploring the Grand Pacific Drive

How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park

Two Week NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary (The Coastal Route)

Port Macquarie Weekend Itinerary

3 Days in the Atherton Tablelands: The Perfect Self-Drive Itinerary

One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary

9 Best Day Trips from Melbourne

Three Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary

Things to Do

20 Things to Do in Canberra

Things to Do in the Southern Highlands

35 Free Things to Do in Sydney

Things to Do in Eurobodalla on the NSW South Coast

Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast

Things to Do in Kiama and Surrounds

Things to Do in Jervis Bay

Things to Do in the NSW Snowy Mountains

Things to Do in Port Macquarie

15 Things to Do in Coffs Harbour (and surrounds)

Things to Do on Kangaroo Island

Things to Do in Gippsland Victoria

25 Free Things to Do in Melbourne

The Best Annual Events in Melbourne

Things to Do in Melbourne

Things to Do in Victoria’s High Country

Things to See on the Great Ocean Road

Things to Do in Echuca

Hotel Review: Rydges World Square Sydney

Hotel Review: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains

Hostel Review: Sydney Harbour YHA

The Best Self-Contained NSW South Coast Accommodaiton

Where to Stay in Port Macquarie

Where to Stay in Melbourne

Where to Stay on the Great Ocean Road

Tours & Attractions

Walking the Sea Cliff Bridge

7 Stunning Lookouts in Australia’s Blue Mountains

Visiting Scenic World in Australia’s Blue Mountains

Visiting the Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk

Finding Peace in Sydney’s Chinese Garden of Friendship

The Sydney Tower Eye Skywalk Experience

Best Things to See Around Sydney Harbour

7 Eurobodalla Culinary Delights That Should Not Be Missed

A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast

How to Climb Mt Kosciuszko (outside of winter)

Our Luxury Murray River Cruise Aboard the PS Murray Princess

Our Top 4 Kangaroo Island Wildlife Experiences

7 Things You Can Expect on a PS Murray Princess Cruise

What to See & Do in Flinders Chase National Park, Kangaroo Island

A Tour of the Buchan Caves in Gippsland Victoria

Getting Around Guides

Getting Around Sydney

How to Get to Kangaroo Island (plus the best ways to get around)

Inspiration

5 Reasons Why I Love Sydney

The 16 Best NSW South Coast Beaches

5 thoughts on “Australia Travel Guide”

What a treasure trove of information your blog is! Wow. I am not sure when I’ll be able to get to Australia, but I know that when I finally do, I’ll be using your advice a LOT! 🙂 I’ve been wanting to see this continent ever since I read a book about Australia as a teen, and that was quite a while ago. But it’s always been too far and too expensive to visit. Some day I will, though…

Thanks Jolanta. Really appreciate your feedback. I do hope you get a chance to visit Australia sometime soon and when you do make sure you let me know!

Hi Jen, do you having any info. on Tasmania. We are planning a trip to Tasmania in Sept/Oct 2017.

Hi Mag, Tassie is still on my list of places to visit someday so no sorry, right now I can’t offer you any advice. I hope you enjoy your trip there!

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• NORTHERN IRELAND
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australia travel guide

Australia is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. If you love outdoor activities, it will be the perfect place for you!

Of course, there is plenty to do in the cities and you will find some amazing landmarks in Sydney, Melbourne or Perth. But the true beauty of Australia is nature.

You will find some of the most beautiful beaches in the world but also amazing mountains, waterfalls and lakes.

Australia is full of National parks and they are all extraordinary!

Another reason to visit Australia is wildlife. Don’t we all dream to see kangaroos, koalas, wombats and all the other native-Australian animals?

The best way to explore this big country is by car. Road trips are the way to go down under and they won’t disappoint you! If you don’t want to buy or rent a car, do not worry. You can easily get to the main cities by plane and go on a tour from there.

In this ultimate Australia travel guide, you will discover everything you need to know to help you plan your trip!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Practical information about Australia

Let’s start with the basics! Here are a few things you need to know about Australia before we dive into the cool stuff.

Capital city : Canberra

States : There are 7 states in Australia: New South Wales (NSW), Queensland (QLD), Northern Territory (NT), Victoria (VIC), Tasmania (TAS), Western Australia (WA) and Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

Currency : Australian Dollar If you need to exchange some money, getting a Transferwise travel card will be the best thing to do.

Language : English Australian English is a bit different compared to British or American English. There are a few words that are completely different and of course, the accent, however, it’s nothing to be worried about. As a general thing, it’s pretty easy to understand.

Power plugs: Australian plugs are Type I (230V voltage/50Hz). They have a triangular shape. They are used in Australia, New Zealand, Chile and Argentina. If you don’t come from one of these countries, you will need an international adapter.

Things to do in Australia

There is no shortage of beautiful places in Australia . Whether you love mountains, beaches, hikes or city breaks, you will have it!

There are many different climates in Australia which means that you will also find different kinds of landscapes. The north is tropical, Tasmania is pretty cold, Victoria has a very continental climate.

Major cities in Australia

Melbourne : Capital of the state of Victoria, Melbourne is known to be a vibrant and dynamic city. It’s also the cultural capital of Australia. You will find a lot of museums, festivals and artists. The city is very famous for its amazing street art and cosmopolitan influences. Melbourne is a great place to start your travels in Australia. It’s easily accessible, the city is amazing and there are many day trips and road trip opportunities. Melbourne is surrounded by beautiful places such as the Great Ocean Road , the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula.

Sydney : Home to the most famous opera house in the world, Sydney is a city everyone should visit at some point. You can easily fly to Sydney as it’s the biggest airport in Australia. The best sights and landmarks are Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, Bondi Beach, Manly and of course the Opera House. There are also a lot of day trips you can take from Sydney including the Blue Mountains and Royal National Park.

Brisbane : Located in Queensland, Brisbane is perfect for people who want a bit more of a tropical vibe. From there, you can go on a road trip along the east coast and discover stunning places such as Rainbow Beach, Noosa or Byron Bay.

Adelaide : Capital of South Australia, Adelaide is often overlooked by visitors. The city itself is fairly small and although it’s a very pleasant place to live, it’s true that the CBD doesn’t have as much to offer as Melbourne or Sydney. However, the surroundings are stunning! From Adelaide, you can go to Kangaroo Island , the Barossa Valley, the Flinders Ranges or start the ultimate road trip to Uluru or Darwin.

Darwin : Located at the top end of Australia, Darwin is the capital of the Northern Territory. It’s the smallest state capital in the country but shouldn’t be overlooked. There are a lot of cheap international flights (especially to/from Bali getting into Darwin) which means that it can be a good starting point. More importantly, Darwin offers a completely different universe from any other Australian city and that is quite interesting. From there, you can easily get to the breath-taking Kakadu and Litchfield National Park.

Perth : Capital of Western Australia, Perth used to be a mining town but grew quickly in recent years to become one of the trendiest cities in the country. Life in Perth is easy and relaxing but can also be adventurous! From there, you can go on many day trips or road trips to discover the most beautiful sites in Western Australia.

Hobart : Capital of Tasmania, Hobart is a great place to start exploring this beautiful state. You will find loads of cultural activities such as the MONA, Tasmanian Museum and Salamanca markets. You can also go on day trips to Freycinet National Park.

Most beautiful places in Australia

Australia offers a wide variety of landscapes. From the tropical lands in Queensland to the desert in Northern Territory, you will find all sorts of beautiful sites. Here is a quick overview of the most beautiful places in Australia.

Great Barrier Reef: located along the coast of Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. It stretches over 2,300 km and is home to thousands of species. Amongst all the reefs, the most famous is the heart reef .

Whitsunday Islands: this archipelago is formed of 74 islands and is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Whitehaven Beach . It’s a great destination if you like sailing or want to enjoy a relaxing holiday. Hamilton Island is known for its luxury resorts . There are many things you can do in the Whitsundays including snorkelling, diving, flying and skydiving .[

12 apostles: situated on the Great Ocean Road, in Victoria, the 12 apostles are an amazingly beautiful natural landmark. It’s a great place to stop at during your GOR road trip, especially at sunset or sunrise.

Phillip Island is one of the best day trips from Melbourne. It’s particularly famous for the penguin parade but also offer great hiking opportunities. You can easily access it by car, via the bridge.

Uluru Kata Tjuta is Australia’s most iconic landmark. We all saw photos of it and visiting it is an amazing experience. Uluru is a sacred aboriginal site and if you want to learn more about the native-Australian culture, this is the perfect place! If you love hiking, the valley of the winds walk in Kata Tjuta will blow your mind (pun not intended 😉 )

Kangaroo Island is a fairly large island located in South Australia. It’s often overlooked by first-time visitors but has so much to offer! It’s like a miniature version of Australia. Red soil, kangaroos, koalas, white-sand beaches… you have it all on Kangaroo Island !

Flinders Ranges: this amazing national park in South Australia features amazing mountains views and hiking trails. From Wilpena, you can go to St Mary’s Peak and enjoy the wonderful views over the range of peaks.

Blue Mountains: located near Sydney, this amazing national park is perfect for hikers. You will find many walking trails, waterfalls and of course, the stunning three sisters lookout! The mountains are covered with gumtrees that give them this blue hallow, hence the name. They are also the subject of loads of aboriginal legends

Jervis Bay: home to Hyams Beach, the whitest beach in the world, Jervis Bay is perfect for people who want to enjoy a relaxing holiday . They are many beautiful beaches and a lot of them are dog-friendly . You will also find two stunning national parks: Jervis Bay and Booderee. They both offer great walks . Finally, it’s a great winter destination for whale watching.

Byron Bay: if you are into surfing and want to discover a hippie town, Byron Bay will be perfect for you! Cape Byron Lighthouse and Byron Bay main beach are the most popular spots but there are also plenty of amazing day trips you can take from there.

Cradle Mountain : Located in the North West of Tasmania, Cradle Mountain is known as a hiker paradise. It features some of the most beautiful views in Australia!

Lake Hillier is Australia’s most famous pink lake! Situated in Western Australia, in the region of Esperance, it’s one of the most unique natural landmarks in the world.

Diving and flying above the Great Barrier Reef : the best ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef is from the water and the sky. If you go diving, you will get to see the corals and fish up close. That’s so colourful and pretty! The other option is going on a scenic flight. You won’t get to see all the colours but you will get to understand how big and beautiful it is. You will also be able to admire the beautiful heart reef. Click here for more information and see the prices.

Driving a 4WD on Fraser Island: located near Hervey Bay , Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world. It’s home to the 75-mile beach, Eli Creek, the Champagne Pools , Lake McKenzie and Central Station. You can drive all the way up and down with a 4WD. If you don’t want to rent a vehicle, you can also opt for a tour of Fraser Island. Click here for more information and see the prices. [

Skydiving in Airlie Beach: there are many places where you can skydive in Australia but Airlie Beach is one of the best in terms of views. You will get to see both the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays. Pretty amazing! Click here for more information and see the prices .

Whale watching in Hervey Bay : in winter, the whales start their migration and go all the way up the east coast. Hervey Bay and Jervis Bay are both great places to see the whales! Click here for more information and see the prices.

Sailing in the Whitsundays: there is no better way to experience the Whitsunday islands than going sailing. There are many companies that offer sailing trips. My personal favourite is the Summertime cruise . They bring you to Whitehaven beach, snorkelling and sea kayaking! Click here for more information and see the prices.

Take a selfie with a quokka in Rottnest Island: located near Perth, Rottnest Island is famous for being home to many quokkas! These little smiley creatures can only be found in Western Australia. They are super friendly and love taking selfies! Click here for more information and see the prices.

Wine tasting in the Yarra Valley: there are many wine regions in Australia. One of the most popular is the Yarra Valley, just outside Melbourne. There are many wineries where you can go for lunch and taste wine! Click here for more information and see the prices.

Watching the sunset at Ubirr: located in Kakadu National Park, Ubirr is a popular sport to watch the sunset and learn more about the aboriginal culture. There are many rock paintings and walking tours.

Discover street art in Melbourne: the capital of Victoria is internationally renowned for its street art. If you head to Hosier or Fitzroy, you will discover some of the best murals in the world. Click here for more information and see the prices.

Climbing Sydney Harbour Bridge: this one is for thrill-seekers and city lovers! There are many places in Sydney where you can get beautiful views of the city however, nothing beats the thrill of climbing the Harbour Bridge. Click here for more information and see the prices.

Discover Bay of Fires: located in Tasmania, Bay of fires features very unique orange rocks and crystal-clear waters.

Stargazing in the Pinnacles desert: if you want to discover what a desert really looks like, the Pinnacles will be perfect for you. They are a sight to see during the day and in the evening become magical! You can see the entire milky way!  Click here for more information and see the prices.

Be mind-blown by the Breakaways: located near Coober Pedy in South Australia, the Breakaways are Australia’s best-kept secret! It is a bit of bumpy ride to get there but it’s so worth it! The landscapes are magical, they look like a painting. Click here for more information and see the prices.

Go on a helicopter ride above King’s Canyon : if you are heading to Uluru, make sure you also check out King’s Canyon. You will find amazing walks there but one of the best ways to appreciate these stunning landscapes is from a helicopter! Click here for more information and see the prices.

Best road trips in Australia

Australia is the perfect country for a road trip. It’s vast and there is so much to see! More importantly, it’s a very cultural thing and loads of Australians take road trips each year. Because of that, the infrastructures are particularly adapted to this road trip culture. There are loads of rest areas and campsites everywhere!

Great Ocean Road: this is definitely the most famous road trip in Australia. The Great Ocean Road goes from Torquay and Allansford. If you drive all the way without stopping, it will only take you a few hours however it’s best to have at least 3 days ahead of you. That way, you will get to stop to all the main sights including the 12 apostles and Otway national park. It can also be part of a bigger road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide.

Sydney to Melbourne: there are two routes you can take to go from Sydney to Melbourne . The first one is the inland drive. It will take you through Canberra and the Alpine National Park. The second one is the coastal drive. It’s longer but also offers a bit more. You will get to discover Wilsons Promontory National Park, Phillip Island and Jervis Bay.

East Coast: this one is the most popular road trip in Australia. It will take you all the way from Sydney up to Cairns. You can also break it down in smaller road trips as if you do the full one you will need at least a month or 2 ahead of you. On this road trip, you will stop at Byron Bay , Brisbane, Fraser Island , the Whitsundays , Townsville and Cairns .

Adelaide to Darwin : if you are looking for an epic adventure in Australia, taking the ultimate road trip through the Outback and Red centre is the best thing you can do. It is quite a long road trip as well and will take about 1 month to complete. If you don’t have that much time, you can also break it and either do Alice Springs to Darwin or Adelaide to Uluru .

Perth to Broome: Western Australia is often overlooked by visitors. This is a shame because it has so much to offer! If you go on a road trip from Perth to Broome, you will get to see wonderful national parks such as Nambung and stop in wonderful places like Kalbarri, Shark Bay, Coral Bay or Monkey Mia.

Tasmania : This is a great road trip for adventurers! Tasmania has it all! You will discover stunning natural places such as Freycinet National Park, Wineglass Bay and Bay of Fires but also cultural and historical cities like Launceston and Hobart.

Planning a trip to Australia

Travelling in Australia is not particularly challenging. People speak English and it is a safe country. However, because it’s so far away and so big, it requires a bit of planning. You need to know what you are getting yourself into and how you are going to get around. Of course, you can just wing it (not the visa part though!) but you might end up wasting a lot of precious time. In this section, you will discover everything you need to know to plan your travels in Australia.

Best time to visit Australia

Australia is located in the southern hemisphere. This means that the seasons are reversed compared to Europe or North America. Summer is from December to February and winter from June to September.

This is very important as it can completely change your plans.

Due to the variety of climates in Australia, it can be difficult to recommend an ideal time to visit. It all depends on what you want to do.

If you are planning on visiting Queensland, Northern Territory and the northern part of Western Australia, July and August will be in winter, from May to October. This is the dry season and although it can get very hot still, it’s bearable.

The southern part of Australia, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania, have more of a continental climate. A bit like in Europe. Therefore, visiting in summer is a better idea. November to February is the best time.

As you may have gathered now, it really all depends on where you want to go. A lot of people recommend going in September or October. The main reason for that is that the weather is kind of fine everywhere. I personally disagree with this because I think that in order to get the best of both worlds, you also get the worst of both worlds. Obviously, if you are staying for a year (with a Working Holiday Visa), you will get to get the best of each season.

Here is a breakdown per state:

• Australian Capital Territory: March to May or September to November
• New South Wales: March to May or September to November
• Victoria: November to March
• Tasmania: December to February
• South Australia: November to March
• Western Australia: May to October
• Northern Territory: May to October

Visas for Australia

You will a visa to go to Australia (unless you are an Australian or New Zealand citizen).

There 3 types of visa you can get to visit Australia. They are all great options, it only depends on the time you want to spend in the country.

If you wish to stay for less than 3 months, you can opt for an Evisitor visa (subclass 651). It’s free and gives you the right to stay in Australia to travel, visit friends or business. You can apply online. It usually takes less than a day to be approved. The only thing about this one is that you need to be outside of Australia to apply.

If you wish to stay for more than 3 months and up to 12 months, you can go for either a work and holiday visa or a working holiday visa . They will essentially give you the same rights which are work and travel in Australia for up to a year. The only difference is the list of countries they are available for.

For example, if you hold an Argentinian passport you will have to go for the Work and Holiday visa. If you have a British passport, it will be the Working Holiday Visa.

They both cost $485. You usually get a reply within 48hours but it can take up to 2 or 3 months. If that’s what you want to go for, you can also check out my Working Holiday guide to find more information about it.

Flights to Australia

The best way to get to Australia is by air. There are a few boat options from South East Asia and New Zealand but it’s way more hassle than it’s worth. Unless you are going on a special trip where you want to come to Australia with your own vehicle, you will want to fly.

Direct flights to Australia are hard to find because of the distance. If you are in the US, there are some from Hawai. If you are in Europe, there is one line (opened in 2019) from London to Perth. Anything else will include a layover or 2.

The most common places to stop by for a layover are Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and Beijing. You can get great flight deals with Air China or Air Malaysia but the best airlines are Qatar, Qantas and Emirates.

To find the best deal, head to Skyscanner . Not only Skyscanner will compare all the prices out there but it will allow you to tweak your research to get to see the best deals. You can simply put “Australia” as a destination instead of a specific airport. This way, it will show you the best prices for any airport in Australia.

The same thing goes with dates. You don’t have to can indicate the whole month instead of specific dates and it will show you when you should be flying.

This trick could save you a lot of money. If you are lucky, you can find return flights for less than $500.

To give you an idea of prices though, usually, return flights from Europe to Australia are between $1000 and $2000.

Transport in Australia

Australia is a very big country. It’s almost as big as the USA and the whole of Europe. When you look at the map, it never seems as big as it actually is but believe me, everything is far away!

Here are the most common ways to get around in Australia.

By plane: Internal flights are very popular in Australia. You can easily get cheapish flights to go to Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart, Darwin, Perth, Adelaide or Alice Springs. If you have a limited time, flying will be the best thing to do as it will save you days of travels. The main airlines are Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar. You can find the best prices using Skyscanner .

By car: Driving is the best way to explore Australia. Everything is quite secluded which means that you will have to drive at some point. If you don’t have much time ahead of you, you should prioritise a combo flight + tour. However, if you are there for a long holiday or a working holiday visa, you should consider getting a car or a van. You can either rent one. Europcar is a good car rental company in Australia but if you want to make sure you get the best prices, you can compare them on Skyscanner . Having a car will allow you to freely navigate, go to all the beautiful national parks and amazing road trips!

By train: The rail network in Australia is not as developed as in Europe however there are some awesome train journeys you can take. If you want to go from one state to another and experience a very unique train journey, you can do so!

The most popular are: The Ghan : from Adelaide to Darwin Spirit of Queensland : from Brisbane to Cairns The Indian Pacific : from Perth to Sydney The Great Southern : from Brisbane to Adelaide The overland : from Melbourne to Adelaide

By bus: This option is a bit less popular as bus journeys in Australia are quite long. Basically you don’t really get the perks of flying nor of a road trip. That having been said, if you are on a budget and don’t want to rent a car, they can be a great option. The best company to book bus tickets is Greyhound.  They have many different routes, in every state.

By ferry: if you wish to go to Tasmania or one of the islands, you might need to catch a ferry. They will work out cheaper if you are a group of people and have a vehicle. If you are a solo traveller, flying will be less expensive.

Here is how you can book ferry rides: For Tasmania, you can book your ride on Spirit of Tasmania For Kangaroo Island, check out Sealink For other smaller islands such as Magnetic Island, you can find tickets on Get your Guide .

Tours in Australia

Tours are very common in Australia. If you don’t have a car, they will be a must-do. But even if you do have a car, you will go to some places where you will need to go on a tour.

Regardless of the potential practical necessity, they are such a great way to explore the country. Not only you will get to do awesome activities but you will also be with a professional guide who will share his knowledge and expertise.

Here are the websites I use to book tours in Australia:

Get your Guide : they have a very large choice of tours and never disappoint. No matter where you go, you will find something on Get your Guide ! They also have an amazing app, you can pay online and keep your e-ticket on your phone.

Klook : widely popular in Australia and Asia, Klook offers great tours as well. I tend to always go with Get your Guide when it comes to tours but Klook has a few tricks up its sleeve. They also supply transport tickets and sim cards . This can come very handy. You can even get $10 off your first booking on the mobile app if you use the code “MOBILE10”

Viator : this one is kind of the world giant when it comes to tours. I personally don’t like them as much as the other two however they sometimes offer more options, especially in secluded places.

Accommodation in Australia

There are all sorts of accommodation in Australia. From free campsites to luxury holiday resorts, you will find them all! It all depends on your budget and expectations.

Here are the different kinds of accommodation in Australia and how to book them.

Australia is a land that was made for road trips. This also means you will find loads of campings.

If you are on a budget, you can find many free campsites (and showers) on Wikicamps .

If you want a bit more comfort and book a campsite with amenities, you can also find them on the app or on Booking.com

You can also opt for a national park campsite. For that, head to the official website of the national park you are visiting and click on the camping section. They will tell you where they are and how to book them. Sometimes there is a collection box on site, a park-ranger passing by to collect the money or sometimes you have to book at the visitor centre. Each place makes its own rules.

Camping is one of the best ways to experience Australia and I can’t recommend it enough!

Backpacking is big in Australia. For this reason, you will find many hostels (also called backpackers) in every main city but also in more secluded places.

Prices go from $15 to $100 depending on the room you book. A bunk bed in a dorm is always cheaper.

You will find all sorts of hostels. Some are absolutely spectacular, some are awful. Check carefully the reviews to avoid any disappointment.

You can book a hostel on Booking.com or Hostel World.

If you want a bit more privacy but are a bit on a budget, booking an Airbnb will be the best options. Most of them are located in the big cities but you will find some everywhere, even in some small towns in the Outback.

You will also find many hotels in Australia. Prices go from $50 to hundreds or thousands of dollars. If you want the cheaper end, you can also look for motels. There aren’t everywhere but you can find some.

Hotels in Australia can quickly become very expensive. It’s not something I would recommend to someone going on a working holiday visa as it won’t be sustainable but they are a good option if you are on holiday.

It all depends on your budget and the level of comfort you want.

The best place to book a hotel in Australia is Booking.com but you should also compare the prices with Agoda . Sometimes there is a bit of a price difference.

Australia is full of heaven-like places and therefore resorts. They are mainly located on the east coast but you will also find some in the Mornington Peninsula and all around the country.

Hamilton Island is known to be the most popular resort destination in Australia.

Resorts are pretty expensive. Prices usually start at about $300 per night. That having been said, everything is included. You will generally have a pool and plenty of activities included.

You can also book a stay in a resort on Booking.com or on the resort’s website.

What to pack for Australia

First of all, it’s important to not overpack. I know it’s always tempting to add more and more things to be prepared for everything (especially the ladies, we all have suitcases full of “just in case” items) but let me stop you there. Australia is full of shops! No matter what you need, you will find it! It’s better to have less than too much. You will be moving a lot and carrying your backpack around won’t be pleasant if it’s too heavy.

Here are the essentials:

– Passport & visas – Travel debit card (I recommend Transferwise ) – Camera and/or phone

In terms of clothes, opt for: – A swimsuit – Shorts – Tshirts – Hat – Dress – Jeans – Hoodie jumper (yep, it can get very cold at times!) – Wind jacket – Underwear

For the shoes: – Flip flops (absolute must-have!) – Hiking shoes – Comfortable city shoes (converse type)

And finally in terms of toiletries: – Towel (microfibre towels are great, they don’t take much space and dry very quickly) – Sunscreen (never underestimate the sun in Australia) – Makeup – Shampoo & soap (I use the hard ones, way easier to carry around) – Toothbrush and toothpaste – Baby wipes – Mosquito spray

This is a bit of a general packing list but it will depend on where you go and when. For example, it’s very hot in the Outback during the day but also very cold at night!

If you stick to Queensland, you won’t need many warm clothes but if you go to Tasmania, you will need a lot of them.

Apps and travel resources for Australia

Transferwise is the perfect app for travel money. Originally, you could only do international transfers but they developed a travel mobile app and travel card in the past recent years. After trying many of them, I think Transferwise is the best option for travelling in Australia. You will get a very good rate on currency exchange and use your Transferwise MasterCard as if it was an Australian card. Obviously, you can also withdraw money. You will get instant notifications on your phone. Simple and easy. You can check my full review here or sign up for an account here.

Wikicamps : If you are planning on camping in Australia, you will need Wikicamps. With it, you can easily find all the campsites in Australia, even the free one! There are reviews, making it easy to know whether that’s the right place for you or not. It costs $7.99 but it’s well worth it! It will make your life easier and save you a lot of money.

Beach Safe: This app will tell you everything you need to know about all beaches in Australia and how safe it is to swim. As you may know, it can be dangerous to swim on certain beaches in Australia (box jellyfish, sharks… you name it!). You will find signs on every beach that will tell you what you are not allowed to do but as they say, better safe than sorry. With the app, you can also double-check if the beach is safe before getting there.

The Happiest hour : If you are staying in a city, this one can come in handy. It gives you access to plenty of deals on food and drinks.

Safety in Australia

Australia is one of the safest countries in the world. People are lovely and as a general thing, you will feel safe pretty much anywhere you go.

There is nothing to be overly concerned about in cities although of course, as anywhere else in the world, you should always be careful (especially at night).

The biggest threats in Australia are natural. There are a lot of animals that can harm or even kill you. If you are in the Outback or North of Queensland especially, you should be extremely careful.

When you go hiking, always wear closed-toe shoes as there could be snakes. When you are going to the beach, look for signs and maybe even check on Beach Safe app whether it’s safe to swim or not. The main dangers would be jellyfish, crocodiles or sharks.

Finally, always follow the instructions on the signs. If there is a sign saying not to stand near the edge because there are crocodiles or because the cliff is not stable, just stay away! Australian nature is beautiful but it can be dangerous.

As a general thing, as long as you listen to what you are told, there is nothing to worry about but it’s something to be aware of.

In terms of health, it’s highly recommended to get travel insurance. Australia has agreements with certain countries to give access to Medicare.  If you are from one of these countries, it’s always a good thing to have but taking proper travel insurance is necessary. If you injure yourself while hiking and need to be evacuated or need surgery or something like that (not that I wish it to you but you know, sh** can happen) you will be so happy to have proper health coverage.I can’t stress that enough!

World Nomads is a great travel insurance. You can check the prices here.

Australia Insider Travel tips

Travelling in Australia is not that different than travelling in Europe or North America however there are some specific things to know. After travelling for a year in Australia, I realised that there are many things I underestimated and I do not want you to make the same mistakes.

You might have read these somewhere else already but I promise, you won’t actually realise how true these statements are until you actually get to Australia.

– Use sunscreen : Australia is right under the ozone hole and the sun burns! It burns a lot! You can literally feel the rays of sun crashing on your skin. Using sunscreen is very important! I recommend at least SPF50. If you are scared you won’t get tanned, don’t be. Even with the highest protection, you will tan! You can find sunscreens in every shop in Australia. It actually comes in bulk, in very big tubs. Make sure to put some on every 2 hours, even if you are in a city!

– Get mosquito spray: if you are heading to NT or QLD, mosquitos (or mozzies as the Aussies say) are horrible. You can end up being covered with bites. I looked like I had chickenpox!

– Use a fly net if you go in the Outback. I happily admit that you will look absolutely ridiculous with a fly net on your head however those flies are so much worse that you can imagine. If you go to Uluru or the Grampians, they will be all over you. They will literally drive you insane! I never thought it could be that bad and yet it was even worse than bad. I ended up with a window net on my head! Fly nets are very expensive in the Outback so it’s better to get them beforehand.

– Distance and time management. Australia is way bigger than you think it is. It takes ages to go from point A to point B. The most common mistake visitors make is to over plan. Don’t try to fit all of Australia in a 3 weeks trip! There are so many things to see, you need to focus on one place and explore it. Between driving and flights, you will realise how big this country is. A good way to save time is to go on tours but still, don’t try to fit too much in!

– Budget : Australia is expensive. No matter what you do, it won’t be a cheap trip and that’s something you should be aware of. I recommend to plan carefully your trip and make a budget before you book your flights so you know what you are getting yourself into. There are ways to make it cheaper. You can sleep in free campsites for example. But no matter what, you need to have enough money. As much as possible, I recommend booking your tours, car and accommodation in advance so then you only have to pay for food and extras.

– Use Transferwise . As previously mentioned, Transferwise offers the best rates in currency exchange and an excellent app. It will make your life easier.

– Use Facebook travel groups. There are many Facebook travel groups about Australia. Australia Backpackers is a good one. You will find plenty of recommendations and can post ads to find travel mates and share the costs of your road trip!

So, with all of that, you should have a good idea of what it’s like to travel to Australia! Don’t hesitate to check out all our articles about Australia.

Last thing, HAVE FUN! Australia is so beautiful! You will love it!

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Australia Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Australia travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

If you’re looking for an adventure, it’s high time you booked a trip to Australia.

From beautiful beaches to breathtaking deserts to astounding mountains to unique wildlife, Australia really does have it all. You’ll find so many true bucket list experiences in this country, whether you’re surfing Byron Bay, exploring the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, or marveling at Uluru and taking in the desert culture in Alice Springs.

You’re sure to come home with tons of memories and plenty of photos to show your friends and family.

Australia is a huge country and packed with so many incredible things to see and do that it’s hard to get the full experience in one short trip. You’ll want to set aside a fair amount of time to explore this unique part of the world, and there are many easy ways to do just that!

If you have a fair amount of flexibility or just want to take a little life sabbatical and go exploring, look into a working holiday visa. This visa allows 18 to 30-year-olds from certain eligible countries to travel through Australia for up to 12 months while working specific jobs in sectors like Australian tourism, farming, and construction.

This is a great way to really get to know the country while making some money to fund your travels. Head to the Australian Department of Home Affairs website to learn more.

If a working holiday is a bit too much of a commitment, look into tour companies and travel agents that offer travel Australia packages or youth travel backpacking tours around the country. In many cases, these companies will also help with many of the logistics involved in traveling to Australia, from visas to transportation between destinations.

Once you’ve figured out how you’re going to travel around Australia, it’s time to figure out where you’re going to go! Australia’s famous cities like Sydney and Melbourne are of course worth visiting, but there are plenty of other gems to check out.

Australian Capital Territory, a small territory carved out of New South Wales that is home to the capital city of Canberra, has plenty to explore and makes for one of the best day trips from Sydney. Visit the ski slopes of the Australian Alps in the winter, take a tour of Parliament House, or float above the city in a hot air balloon.

Over in Western Australia, you’ll find the lively city of Perth, where you can sip local wine and snap a photo with an adorable quokka all in one day!

Want to visit some of the most beautiful beaches in the world? Head to the Gold Coast on Australia’s east coast where you’ll find bright blue waters, incredible surf, and laid-back vibes.

And if you’re looking for the road trip of a lifetime, consider a drive down the famous Great Ocean Road , a scenic highway in Southern Australia that’s hard to beat.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Australia in Oceania .

Note: This ultimate guide to Australia travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Australia Map

Use this Australia travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Adventure & Hiking Holidays In Australia

Looking to have some active travel adventures in Australia? Don’t miss:

7 Reasons Wollongong Is The Perfect Destination For Adrenaline Junkies

Moving Experiences: Hiking Safaris In Australia

5 Of Australia’s Most Stunning Camping Destinations

8 Best Hikes In Queensland You Shouldn’t Miss

10 Amazing Bruny Island Hikes Not To Be Missed

Australia Road Trip Guide

Looking for the perfect Australia road trip itinerary? These posts can help!

10-Day Brisbane To Cairns Road Trip Itinerary

Road Trip From Through Australia: 10 Memorable Moments In Victoria

Australia Travel Tips

The following Australia travel advice can help you plan the perfect trip, whether you’re visiting to experience solo female travel or in a group!

Travel Guide To Solo Travel In Australia

3 Must-Stay Eco-Lodges In Victoria, Australia

Barossa Valley Travel Guide

No Australia guide would be complete without mentioning the Barossa Valley and the many things to do there, like:

Australia Travel: 5 Things To Do In The Barossa Valley Besides Drink Wine

Making My Own Wine Blend In South Australia’s Barossa Valley

Melbourne Travel Guide

Looking for a Melbourne visitor’s guide that can help you plan the perfect trip? Check out:

10 Melbourne Hidden Gems & Secret Places (From A Local Guide)

Budget Travel: Top Free Things To Do In Melbourne

5 Ways To Get High In Melbourne, Australia

14 Quirky Things To Do In Melbourne, Australia

Sydney Travel Guide

Looking for a Sydney destination guide ? These Australia travel articles can help!

Cheap Australia Travel: Exploring Sydney On Less Than $25/Day

Solo Travel In Sydney: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Kangaroo Island Travel Guide

When traveling Australia , you can’t miss Kangaroo Island. Here is how to have an incredible time!

12 Quintessential Experiences To Have On Australia’s Kangaroo Island

Southern Ocean Lodge: Sustainable Luxury On Australia’s Kangaroo Island

Other Places To Visit In Australia

Looking for the best places to visit in Australia ? Here are some other unforgettable ideas:

10 Tasty Food & Wine Experiences To Have In Australia

An Epicurious Experience In Adelaide Hills, South Australia

Best Tours In Australia

Explore local culture with an Australia tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns
• Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Day Trip from Cairns or Port Douglas
• Kuranda Scenic Railway Day Trip from Cairns
• Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset with Outback Barbecue Dinner and Star Tour from Yulara
• Sunset 3-Hour Cruise from Darwin with Dinner and Sparkling Wine
• Sydney Opera House Beyond the Stage Tour & Harbourside Brunch from Sydney
• Sunset Blue Mountains Wilderness & Wildlife Tour (Without the Crowds) from Haymarket
• Kakadu National Park Full-Day Tour from Darwin with Lunch

Renting A Car In Australia

Need a rental car for your Australia trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Australia Hotels

Click here to browse the best Australia travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Australia Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on an Australian tour. When visiting Australia — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Australia travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Australia Travel Guide FAQ

Okay, now let’s answer some common Oceania travel guide questions that specifically pertain to traveling in Australia .

Q: What are the best things to do in Australia?

One of the best things to do in Australia is to explore the country’s incredible natural wonders. With tons of opportunities for hiking , diving, safaris, and more, you won’t forget the sights you see in this truly unique country.

Australia is home to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the largest living structures on the planet and one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World. The reef stretches along much of the state of Queensland and is so big that it can be seen from outer space.

While diving is probably the most immersive way to experience the reef, you can also explore this natural wonder while staying dry through glass-bottom boat tours and underwater viewing stations.

Australia’s Red Centre, or the Central Australian outback, is also world-famous for its beautiful desert views, iconic wildlife and Aboriginal culture. The desert’s main attractions are Uluru and Kata Tjuta, ancient rock formations sacred to the local Anangu people that have amazed visitors for centuries. Take a tour of the area with an Aboriginal guide to learn more about the land and its significance to the Anangu people.

What’s more synonymous with Australia than kangaroos? You can see these creatures (and many more) in their natural habitat on Kangaroo Island , a large island off the coast of South Australia where the local wildlife roams free. You’ll run into tons of classic Australian animals here, from koalas to wallabies to goannas.

Hike some of the island’s many trails, visit a local honey farm, or book an animal encounter at a wildlife educational park. The island is also well-known for its wineries and you’ll definitely want to do a tasting at one of the many cellar doors.

Now, Kangaroo Island isn’t the only Australian island worth visiting. Explore the many scenic Bruny Island hikes for a taste of adventurous Tasmania — and keep your eyes peeled for the rare white wallaby!

You can’t skip a trip to the beach when you visit Australia! Bondi Beach in Sydney is one of the most famous shores in the world, best known for its clear blue waters, clifftop walk, and world-class surf. Take a surf lesson yourself, or just catch some rays and do some people watching.

Australia is also the perfect place for an epic road trip! Along with the popular Great Ocean Road, a Brisbane to Cairns road trip introduces you to some of the country’s most incredible destinations.

Q: What is the best month to visit Australia?

December through February are generally the best months to visit Australia, as that is when the country experiences summer. This is the perfect time to visit southern Australian destinations like Melbourne and Sydney , as temperatures are usually warm and pleasant.

Things can get extremely hot in the summer in northern Australia, though, since this area is closer to the equator. If you’re looking to visit Darwin and other northern Australian destinations, consider visiting in the winter when temperatures are less brutal and not quite as rainy.

Q: How much does an average trip to Australia cost?

A week-long trip to Australia will generally run you about $2,000 for one person. Costs will depend on your destination, but the average traveler spends about $143 USD per day in Australia on accommodations, transportation, food, activities, and other day-to-day travel expenses.

Since the country is so isolated, your biggest expense will likely be your flight to Australia from your home country. Keep an eye on sites like Kayak to find deals on flights and bring the total cost of your trip down.

Q: Where should I go for my first trip to Australia?

Australia is a huge country and there’s quite a lot to see, particularly for first-time visitors, but there are a few places you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

Sydney , arguably Australia’s most famous city, offers tons of great things to see and do. The iconic Sydney Harbour area is home to the famous Sydney Opera House, probably the most recognizable building in the country.

Even if you can’t get tickets to a show at the Opera House, it’s worth strolling around the adjacent boardwalk and marvelling at the incredible architecture. The Opera House also offers daily tours for those who want a more in-depth look at the iconic building. For a taste of the city’s history, head down to The Rocks neighborhood, featuring 19th-century cobblestone streets and buildings filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries.

The city is also home to tons of great beaches, including the famous Bondi Beach, where you can soak up some sun and incredible views. For a nearby day trip out of Sydney, head to the Greater Blue Mountains Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Centre featuring incredible sandstone plateaus and more.

Looking to road trip your way along the country’s southern coast? Take a ride on the Great Ocean Road, a cliffside highway with amazing ocean views and tons of great stops along the way.

During your trip, you can visit the 12 Apostles , a series of limestone pillars carved out of the mainland cliffs that will take your breath away. You can also encounter local wildlife at several wildlife reserves along the way, or do some seal spotting along the shore. The Great Ocean Road will also lead you to Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital, a lively city full of fun and quirky things to see and do.

No trip to Australia would be complete without a visit to The Outback. The ancient rock formation Uluru is a truly breathtaking sight and the surrounding Red Centre area offers tons of opportunities for adventure travel . Here, you can explore King’s Canyon, learn more about the local Aboriginal culture, get up close with kangaroos, and swim in real waterholes.

The nearby city of Alice Springs also has tons of great art to check out as well as trails for mountain biking and remnants of Australia’s storied past like original European settlements. Bring your sunblock and get ready to explore this iconic area.

Q: What should I avoid in Australia?

The biggest threat to your safety in Australia is Mother Nature. Thankfully, her wrath is pretty easy to avoid.

If you want to head out to the beach (which you absolutely should), make sure you stick to official beaches designated for swimming. If not, you may run the risk of encountering a shark, crocodile, or one of the other dangerous sea creatures local to the area.

You’ll also want to heed any warnings from lifeguards and always swim between the flags at the beach. Rip currents can develop quickly and cause even the strongest of swimmers to struggle to get back to shore.

And do not forget sunscreen and water! The Australian sun is notoriously strong and you don’t want to end up in the hospital with third-degree burns and a wicked case of dehydration.

If you’re not renting a car during your trip to Australia, you’ll want to avoid the suburbs and stay close to major cities and areas with reliable public transport. Public transit is spotty at best outside of the cities, so you’ll definitely have a hard time getting around.

If you do choose to rent a car, be sure to factor travel time into your itinerary. It can take quite a while to get from Point A to Point B in Australia however you choose to travel, and you don’t want to spend your entire trip on the road. A proper road trip around the country can also take months, so don’t get too ambitious with your plans unless you truly have the time.

This probably also goes without saying, but leave your Steve Irwin impression at home. Any references to Crocodile Dundee, “shrimp on the barbie”, and the like will (at best) earn you dirty looks from the locals.

And you probably wouldn’t appreciate it if someone did the same in your home country or hometown. Just be yourself and don’t be afraid to chat with people. Australians are quite friendly as long as you leave the fake accent at home.

Q: Is Australia safe to travel?

Australia is considered very safe for travelers. Rates of both violent and petty crime are low throughout the country, though it does help to stay vigilant for pickpockets in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.

Natural disasters can be a bit of a risk here, though — riptides are common at beaches, wildfires are common in the summer months, and there are several dangerous animal species to look out for if you’re out in the wilderness.

UV exposure rates are also very high here, so be sure to use SPF every day, even if you’re not planning on spending a ton of time outdoors.

Keep an eye on the news, heed all road signs and beach warnings, and follow guides when venturing outdoors.

Q: How long can a tourist stay in Australia?

Tourist visas in Australia are generally granted for up to three months.

These can be extended to a full year under certain circumstances but three months is the length of an average stay period granted by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

If you want to stay longer than your granted stay period, you’ll need to apply for a new visa.

Q: Do I need an Australia travel visa?

All visitors to Australia (other than citizens of New Zealand) need a visa to visit the country. You must apply for a visa before leaving home.

Visitors from most European countries can obtain a free eVisitor visa online and visitors from the United States, Canada and several other European countries can obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) visa online or through a travel agent for a small fee. If you are applying for an ETA visa, be sure to get your application in before you book travel to Australia.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Australia International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Australian Consulate-General.

Q: Where is Australia?

Australia is a country — that is also an island and a continent — located in Oceania between the Indian Ocean and the South Ocean.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Australia?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Australia, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in the Australia?

It is typically safe to drink the tap water in Australia, though do double check with your hotel to be sure as water sources — and water quality — vary from place to place.

Q: What is the local currency in Australia?

The local currency in Australia is the Australian dollars (AUD).

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• Travel Destinations
• Australia & South Pacific

The Ultimate Australia Travel Guide

Published: October 13, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Dania Vansickle

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the land down under, where boundless beauty and unforgettable adventures await you. Australia, the world’s smallest continent and its largest island, is a captivating destination that offers something for every traveler. From stunning landscapes to vibrant cities, this diverse country is a dream come true for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.

Australia is located in the southern hemisphere, bordered by the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is known for its unique fauna, vast desert expanses, lush rainforests, and iconic landmarks. The country is home to many indigenous cultures, with a rich history dating back thousands of years.

When planning your trip to Australia, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. The country is vast, so determining the best time to visit, as well as understanding visa requirements and exchange rates, is crucial. Additionally, gaining insight into Australian culture and etiquette will help you navigate the country with ease.

Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Sydney, snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking through ancient rainforests, or encountering kangaroos and koalas in their natural habitat, Australia promises a journey filled with unforgettable experiences.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Australia. From transportation options and accommodation choices to the top tourist attractions and outdoor adventures, you’ll discover the best that this captivating country has to offer. So grab your sunscreen and get ready for an Australian adventure beyond your wildest dreams!

Getting to Australia

Getting to Australia is relatively easy, with numerous international flights servicing major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. Most international travelers arrive at one of these airports, which are well-connected to the rest of the country by domestic flights, trains, and buses.

The main international airports in Australia are Sydney Airport (SYD), Melbourne Airport (MEL), and Brisbane Airport (BNE). These airports offer a wide range of flights from various airlines, making it convenient to find a suitable option for your travel needs.

For travelers coming from North America or Europe, there are direct flights to Australia from major cities such as Los Angeles, New York, London, and Frankfurt. The flight duration can vary depending on your departure location, but it generally ranges from 15 to 24 hours.

Alternatively, if you’re already in the Asia-Pacific region, there are numerous airlines offering direct flights to Australia from cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Auckland. These flights tend to be shorter in duration, ranging from 4 to 10 hours.

It’s important to note that Australia has strict quarantine regulations in place to protect its unique environment. Be sure to declare any food, plants, or animal products when entering the country, as failure to do so can result in hefty fines.

Once you’ve arrived in Australia, there are several transportation options to consider for getting around the country. Domestic flights are a popular choice for covering large distances quickly, especially if you’re traveling between major cities or to remote areas.

If you prefer a more scenic way of travel, you can explore Australia by train. The country offers several iconic train journeys, such as the Indian Pacific, which crosses the continent from Sydney to Perth, and the Ghan, which runs from Adelaide to Darwin through the heart of the outback.

Bus travel is another affordable and convenient option for getting around Australia. There are numerous bus companies that operate routes between major cities and regional towns, allowing you to explore both popular tourist destinations and off-the-beaten-path locations.

For shorter distances within cities, public transportation systems such as trains, trams, and buses are readily available. Renting a car can also be a great option if you prefer the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Now that you know how to get to Australia and navigate within the country, it’s time to discover the best time to visit this mesmerizing destination.

Best Time to Visit

Australia’s vast size and diverse climate mean that the best time to visit can vary depending on the region you plan to explore. Generally, Australia experiences opposite seasons to the northern hemisphere. The country can be divided into different climate zones:

• The tropical north, including popular destinations like Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, experiences a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October. The dry season, with its warm temperatures and lower humidity, is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the underwater wonders of the reef.
• The southern regions, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide, have a temperate climate. The summer months from December to February are hot and sunny, perfect for beach trips and outdoor festivals. Autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) bring milder temperatures and colorful foliage, making them pleasant times to visit.
• The Australian Outback, including destinations like Alice Springs and Uluru, experiences hot and dry weather year-round. However, the summer months (December to February) can be scorching, with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). It’s advisable to visit during the cooler months of autumn (March to May) or spring (September to November).
• Tasmania, located in the southernmost part of Australia, has a cooler climate. The summer months of December to February are popular for outdoor activities and hiking, but be prepared for changeable weather and pack layers for cooler temperatures.

Weather patterns can vary within regions, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific forecast for your destination before you go. Keep in mind that popular tourist spots can get crowded during peak season, especially around school holidays and major events, so consider visiting during shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience.

Regardless of the season, Australia offers a wide range of attractions and activities all year round. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant cities, enjoying the stunning coastal landscapes, or diving into the rich indigenous culture, there’s something for everyone in this diverse and captivating country.

Now that you have an idea of the best time to visit, let’s dive into the visa and immigration requirements for traveling to Australia.

Visa and Immigration

Before traveling to Australia, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the visa and immigration requirements to ensure a smooth entry into the country. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose and duration of your visit.

For most travelers, an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa is the appropriate option. These visas allow for tourism, business, or visiting friends and relatives, and are typically valid for up to 90 days. They can be easily obtained online, with a quick and straightforward application process.

If you’re planning to work or study in Australia, you will need to apply for a different type of visa, such as a work visa or a student visa. These visas have specific requirements and application processes, so it’s advisable to consult the official Australian Government website or seek assistance from a registered migration agent to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria.

It’s important to note that all travelers to Australia must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of entry. Depending on your country of citizenship, you may also need to undergo a health examination or provide additional documentation.

On arrival in Australia, all visitors are required to go through immigration and customs control. Be prepared to present your passport and visa documentation, as well as answer questions about the purpose and duration of your stay. Additionally, Australian customs have strict regulations regarding the importation of various items such as food, plants, and medications, so it’s essential to declare any items that may be subject to these restrictions.

It’s also worth noting that Australia has specific biosecurity regulations to protect its unique flora and fauna. To avoid any penalties, be sure to declare any items of concern, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, animal products, or wooden items, and follow any instructions provided by biosecurity officers.

For the most up-to-date and detailed information on visa and immigration requirements, it’s advisable to visit the official website of the Australian Department of Home Affairs or contact your nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Now that you understand the visa and immigration process, let’s delve into the currency and exchange rates in Australia.

Currency and Exchange Rates

The currency used in Australia is the Australian Dollar (AUD). As a visitor, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the currency and exchange rates before your trip to ensure you have a smooth financial experience during your time in the country.

When it comes to exchanging your currency for Australian Dollars, there are several options available. Currency exchange desks can be found at major airports, hotels, and shopping centers. Banks and authorized currency exchange offices are also reliable places to exchange your money. It’s advisable to compare exchange rates and fees to get the best deal, as rates can vary.

Using a debit or credit card is another convenient way to access money in Australia. Most businesses accept credit cards, and ATMs are widely available. Just be sure to inform your bank or credit card provider of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.

When comparing prices in Australia, keep in mind that the country has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10%. This tax is already included in the displayed price for most goods and services, except for some international flights and accommodation. As a tourist, you may be eligible for a refund of the GST on certain purchases. Look for the “Tax Free” signs and ask the retailer for more information about the tax refund process.

It’s also essential to be aware of tipping customs in Australia. Unlike some other countries, tipping is not generally expected or required in Australia. However, it is appreciated for exceptional service. If you do choose to tip, a general guideline is to leave 10% of the bill, or round up to the nearest dollar for smaller expenses.

One thing to keep in mind when using cash in Australia is that the lowest denomination coin is 5 cents, and the highest is a $2 coin. It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases or places that may not accept cards.

As for exchange rates, they fluctuate daily and can be influenced by various factors, such as global economic conditions and market forces. It’s advisable to monitor the rates and consider exchanging your currency when the rates are favorable.

By familiarizing yourself with the Australian currency and exchange rates, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free financial experience during your stay. Now that you have the financial aspect covered, let’s explore the fascinating Australian culture and etiquette.

Australian Culture and Etiquette

Australia is known for its friendly and laid-back culture. Australians are generally welcoming and open-minded, embracing diversity and multiculturalism. Understanding the local culture and etiquette will help you navigate social interactions and make the most of your time in the country.

One important aspect of Australian culture is the concept of “mateship,” which emphasizes loyalty, friendship, and looking out for one another. Australians often address each other as “mate,” a term that can be used with both friends and strangers as a sign of camaraderie.

Australians have a relaxed attitude towards time and punctuality. While it’s always good to be on time for appointments and scheduled events, it’s not uncommon for social gatherings to have a more casual approach to timing.

When it comes to greetings, a simple handshake is the most common form of greeting, especially in business settings. In more informal situations, a friendly nod or a wave can be sufficient. In recent years, cheek kisses as a form of greeting have become more common amongst close friends.

Australians appreciate a direct and straightforward communication style. They value honesty and appreciate individuals who speak their minds openly but respectfully. Sarcasm and self-deprecating humor are also widely used in social interactions.

Australians have a strong connection to the outdoors and enjoy an active lifestyle. It’s common to see people engaging in outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, surfing, and barbecues in parks or beaches. If invited to a barbecue, it’s customary to bring a bottle of wine, salad, or dessert as a gesture of appreciation.

Australians are known for their love of sports, particularly cricket, rugby, Australian rules football, and soccer. Attending a live sports event can be a thrilling experience and a great way to immerse yourself in Australian culture.

Regarding dress code, Australia has a generally relaxed and casual fashion sense. It’s acceptable to dress casually in most situations, especially in coastal regions and outdoor settings. However, it’s advisable to dress more formally for business meetings, upscale restaurants, or special events.

As Australia is a vast country with diverse climates, it’s important to pack appropriately and layer your clothing. Remember to bring sunscreen and a hat, as the Australian sun can be intense, even during cooler months.

Australian culture values inclusiveness and respect for people from all backgrounds. It’s important to be mindful of cultural sensitivities and to always treat others with kindness and respect.

By embracing the friendly and laid-back nature of Australian culture and being mindful of local customs and etiquette, you’ll undoubtedly have a memorable and enjoyable time exploring all that Australia has to offer. Now, let’s delve into the various transportation options available within the country.

Transportation in Australia

Australia offers a variety of transportation options for getting around the country, whether you’re exploring the vibrant cities or venturing into remote regions. From domestic flights to trains, buses, and public transportation, there are options to suit every traveler’s preferences and budget.

Domestic flights are a popular choice for covering large distances quickly. Australia has several major airlines that operate domestic routes, connecting major cities and regional areas. With a well-developed network of airports, it’s relatively easy to fly between destinations, making it a convenient option for travelers who are short on time.

For those seeking a more scenic and leisurely way of travel, train journeys are an excellent choice. Australia offers iconic train routes that traverse through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes, such as the Indian Pacific, which crosses the continent from Sydney to Perth, and the Ghan, which runs from Adelaide to Darwin through the heart of the outback. These journeys provide a unique and immersive experience, allowing you to witness the vastness and beauty of the Australian landscape.

Bus travel is another affordable and convenient option for getting around Australia. Several bus companies operate routes between major cities and regional towns, making it easy to explore both popular tourist destinations and off-the-beaten-path locations. Some bus companies even offer hop-on-hop-off passes, allowing you to customize your itinerary and spend as much time as you like in each destination.

If you’re staying within a city, public transportation systems such as trains, trams, and buses are readily available. Major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth have comprehensive public transportation networks that make it easy to navigate and explore the city and its surrounding areas. Many cities also offer travel cards or passes that provide discounted fares and unlimited travel within a certain period.

Renting a car is another popular option for travelers who prefer the freedom and flexibility to explore at their own pace. Australia has a well-maintained road network, and driving conditions are generally good. However, keep in mind that Australia is a vast country, and long driving distances may be involved, particularly if you’re planning to venture into remote areas. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the road rules and regulations, and plan your trips accordingly.

When it comes to transportation within cities, rideshare services like Uber and taxis are widely available, providing a convenient and reliable way to get around. Additionally, cycling and walking are popular options in many urban areas, especially in cities known for their bike-friendly infrastructure.

As a visitor, it’s important to be mindful of local traffic laws and regulations, as they may differ from those in your home country. Follow speed limits, wear seatbelts, and always adhere to road signage. If you plan on driving in remote or rural areas, be aware that mobile phone coverage may be limited, and it’s advisable to carry extra supplies, such as water and snacks, in case of emergencies.

With the variety of transportation options available in Australia, you can choose the mode of travel that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether it’s soaring through the skies on a domestic flight, embarking on a scenic train journey, hopping on a bus to explore new destinations, or navigating the streets using public transportation, getting around Australia is an adventure in itself.

Now that you’re familiar with the transportation options, let’s explore the various accommodation options available in Australia.

Accommodation Options

Australia offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, or unique accommodation experiences, you’ll find something to cater to your needs and preferences.

Hotels are a popular choice for many travelers, providing a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the country. You’ll find a variety of hotels ranging from internationally recognized chains to boutique properties. Major cities and popular tourist destinations offer a wide selection of accommodations, with amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants.

If you’re looking for a more immersive and unique experience, consider booking a stay at a bed and breakfast (B&B) or a guesthouse. These cozy establishments are often run by friendly hosts who can provide local insights and personalized recommendations. B&Bs are particularly common in regional areas and can offer a warm and homey atmosphere.

For budget-conscious travelers, hostels are a fantastic option. Australia has a well-established network of hostels, offering affordable dormitory-style rooms or private rooms at a fraction of the cost of traditional hotels. Hostels often have communal areas where you can meet fellow travelers, and some even organize social events and tours.

If you’re an adventurous traveler or seeking a unique experience, Australia offers various types of alternative accommodation. From eco-lodges in the rainforest to glamping sites in the outback, you can immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing comfort. You can also find farm stays where you can experience rural life and participate in activities such as milking cows or herding sheep.

Australia is known for its stunning natural landscapes, and camping is a popular way to experience the great outdoors. National parks and private campgrounds offer a range of camping options, from basic tent sites to equipped cabins or caravan sites. Camping allows you to connect with nature and enjoy the spectacular scenery at your own pace.

If you’re traveling with a larger group or seeking a more independent experience, consider booking a holiday rental or apartment. These self-contained accommodations provide the comforts of home, with amenities such as kitchens and laundry facilities. Holiday rentals are particularly convenient for longer stays or if you prefer the flexibility to cook meals and have your own space.

Finally, for those seeking ultimate luxury and indulgence, Australia boasts a collection of world-class resorts and retreats. From beachfront villas to secluded island resorts, you can pamper yourself with spas, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views. These properties offer exceptional service and amenities, ensuring a memorable and luxurious experience.

Regardless of your accommodation choice, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or for popular destinations. The availability and pricing can vary, so do some research and compare options to find the best deals.

Now that you’re familiar with the accommodation options, let’s explore the top tourist attractions that you can’t miss during your visit to Australia.

Top Tourist Attractions

Australia is home to numerous iconic tourist attractions that showcase the country’s unique landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture. From bustling cities to breathtaking natural wonders, here are some of the must-visit destinations in Australia:

• Sydney Opera House: One of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, the Sydney Opera House is not just an architectural masterpiece but also a hub for performing arts and cultural events.
• Great Barrier Reef: Located off the coast of Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system on the planet. Snorkeling or diving here offers a breathtaking underwater experience filled with vibrant coral formations and an abundance of marine life.
• Uluru (Ayers Rock): Rising from the heart of the red desert, Uluru is a sacred site for Indigenous Australians. Its magnificent formations and changing colors at sunrise and sunset make it a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder.
• The Twelve Apostles: Situated along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, the Twelve Apostles are towering limestone rock formations jutting out of the Southern Ocean. It’s a dramatic and picturesque coastal landscape that shouldn’t be missed.
• Daintree Rainforest: Located in Queensland, the Daintree Rainforest is one of the oldest rainforests on Earth. Take a guided tour to explore the lush vegetation, discover unique wildlife, and get a glimpse into Australia’s ancient past.
• Great Ocean Road: Stretching along Victoria’s coastline, the Great Ocean Road offers stunning ocean views, pristine beaches, and the opportunity to witness the famous limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles.
• Sydney Harbour Bridge: For an adrenaline rush and panoramic views of Sydney, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge or simply enjoy a stroll along its pedestrian walkways.
• Kangaroo Island: Located off the coast of South Australia, Kangaroo Island is a wildlife haven where you can encounter native animals such as kangaroos, koalas, and sea lions in their natural habitat.
• Blue Mountains: Just a short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking views, ancient rock formations, and numerous hiking trails through eucalyptus forests.
• Melbourne’s Federation Square: This vibrant cultural precinct in Melbourne is home to numerous art galleries, museums, restaurants, and a bustling atmosphere that showcases the city’s dynamic arts scene.

These are just a few of the many incredible attractions that await visitors in Australia. Remember to plan your itinerary, as the country’s vastness warrants ample time for exploration. Whether you’re exploring the cosmopolitan cities, immersing yourself in indigenous culture, or soaking up the natural beauty, Australia will leave you awe-inspired at every turn.

Now, let’s dive into the adventurous side of Australia with its outdoor activities and national parks.

Outdoor Adventures and National Parks

Australia is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with its diverse landscapes and abundance of national parks. From thrilling adventures to serene nature escapes, there are endless opportunities to explore and connect with the great outdoors.

One of the most popular outdoor activities in Australia is hiking. With a network of well-maintained trails, you can embark on breathtaking hikes to witness stunning vistas, unique rock formations, and native wildlife. Some notable hiking destinations include the rugged peaks of the Grampians in Victoria, the stunning trails of the Royal National Park in New South Wales, and the challenging Overland Track in Tasmania.

For adrenaline junkies, Australia offers a range of adventure sports. You can go skydiving over picturesque coastal landscapes, experience the thrill of bungee jumping, or try your hand at sandboarding down towering sand dunes. The Gold Coast and Cairns are particularly popular destinations for adventure activities.

Australia’s national parks are treasure troves of natural beauty and biodiversity. From the ancient rainforests of Daintree National Park in Queensland to the dramatic gorges of Karijini National Park in Western Australia, these protected areas showcase the country’s diverse ecosystems and provide opportunities for wildlife encounters, bushwalking, and camping.

One of the most iconic national parks in Australia is the Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including wetlands, waterfalls, and ancient rock art sites. Explore the park’s diverse wildlife, take a boat cruise along the winding rivers, or witness the mesmerizing sunsets over the vast floodplains.

Another must-visit national park is the stunning Freycinet National Park in Tasmania. Home to the famous Wineglass Bay, this park offers pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and breathtaking coastal hikes. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on the challenging but rewarding hike up to the Wineglass Bay lookout for panoramic views that will take your breath away.

Australia is also renowned for its network of marine parks, providing opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring vibrant underwater ecosystems. The Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia is a lesser-known gem, where you can swim with whale sharks, turtles, and colorful tropical fish. The Lord Howe Island Marine Park, located off the coast of New South Wales, offers spectacular snorkeling and diving experiences in a pristine and protected environment.

When partaking in outdoor activities, it’s essential to prioritize safety and follow any guidelines or regulations set out by park authorities. Be prepared with proper equipment, clothing, and sufficient water and food supplies. If needed, consider hiring a guide or joining a tour to ensure a safe and enriching experience.

Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or peaceful nature escapes, Australia’s outdoor adventures and national parks offer something for everyone. So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature’s wonders.

Now let’s dive into the unique wildlife that Australia has to offer.

Australian Wildlife

Australia is renowned for its unique and diverse wildlife, with many species found nowhere else on Earth. From cuddly koalas to bounding kangaroos, Australia’s wildlife is a major draw for both domestic and international visitors.

One of the most iconic Australian animals is the kangaroo. These marsupials are known for their powerful jumps and distinctive pouches. You can spot kangaroos in various parts of the country, including open grasslands, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries. Kangaroo Island in South Australia is particularly famous for its abundant kangaroo population.

Another beloved animal is the koala, known for its fluffy appearance and its preference for eucalyptus leaves. You can encounter these adorable creatures in select regions such as Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. Many wildlife parks and sanctuaries offer the opportunity to get up-close with koalas and even have a chance to cuddle one.

The platypus is a fascinating and unique Australian creature. This semi-aquatic mammal with its duck-like bill and webbed feet is known for its ability to lay eggs despite being a mammal. You can often spot platypus in rivers and creeks, particularly in eastern parts of the country such as Tasmania and Victoria.

Australia is also home to various species of beautiful and vibrant birds. The iconic kookaburra, with its distinctive laughter-like call, can be found throughout the continent. The colorful rainbow lorikeets, cockatoos, and parrots are also a common sight in parks and gardens.

One cannot forget the diverse marine life that calls Australia’s coastal waters home. The Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most renowned marine ecosystems, is teeming with an array of colorful fish, turtles, and coral formations. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can witness the incredible biodiversity firsthand.

Marine mammals such as dolphins and whales are also prevalent along the Australian coastline. The waters off Hervey Bay in Queensland are a popular spot for whale-watching, particularly during the humpback whale migration season from July to November.

It’s important to remember that many Australian animals are protected species, and interactions should always be done in a responsible and ethical manner. When encountering wildlife, maintain a respectful distance, do not feed or touch them unless instructed to do so by trained professionals, and abide by any guidelines or regulations set out by wildlife authorities.

Whether you’re exploring national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, or simply enjoying the country’s natural beauty, Australia’s wildlife will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. So keep your camera ready, immerse yourself in nature, and be prepared to be enchanted by the incredible creatures that call Australia home.

Now, let’s head to the coastal regions and explore the stunning beaches of Australia.

Beaches and Coastal Regions

Australia is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches and stunning coastal regions in the world. With its vast coastline stretching over 30,000 kilometers, the country offers an abundance of sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque landscapes that cater to all beach lovers.

Sydney, the largest city in Australia, boasts a collection of iconic beaches. Bondi Beach, with its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere, is a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Manly Beach, located across the harbor, offers a more relaxed vibe, with its laid-back surf culture and stunning coastal walks.

Queensland’s coastline is renowned for its tropical beauty. The Whitsunday Islands, with their idyllic white sand beaches, azure waters, and world-class snorkeling, are a must-visit for beach enthusiasts. The famous Surfers Paradise in the Gold Coast is another popular destination, known for its dazzling skyline, vibrant energy, and top-notch surf breaks.

Western Australia is home to some of the most pristine and secluded beaches, particularly along the Coral Coast and the stunning Turquoise Coast. The rugged beauty of Cable Beach in Broome, with its ochre cliffs and vast stretches of white sand, is simply breathtaking. The clear turquoise waters and vibrant marine life of Ningaloo Reef make it a popular destination for beach lovers and snorkelers alike.

Tasmania, with its rugged coastline and unspoiled wilderness, offers a different kind of beach experience. Bay of Fires, with its pristine beaches and striking orange-hued granite rocks, is a picturesque destination for beach walks, swimming, and camping. Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park is another gem, known for its pristine clear waters and stunning white sand.

The coastal regions of South Australia also have their own unique charm. The Fleurieu Peninsula offers a diverse range of beach experiences, from the family-friendly shores of Port Elliot to the surf breaks of Middleton. Kangaroo Island, with its secluded bays and pristine coastal landscapes, is another must-visit destination for its untouched beauty.

As you explore Australia’s beaches, always remember to follow local safety guidelines, swim between the flags at patrolled beaches, and be mindful of any warning signs or instructions provided. It’s also essential to apply sunscreen regularly and stay hydrated, especially during hot summer days.

Whether you’re looking for a buzzing beachside atmosphere, a tranquil escape, or a remote and untouched paradise, Australia’s beaches and coastal regions offer a multitude of options to cater to every preference. So pack your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen, and get ready to dip your toes in the pristine waters of Australia’s stunning coastline.

Now, let’s dive into the rich Indigenous culture and heritage that Australia holds.

Indigenous Culture and Heritage

Australia is rich in Indigenous culture and heritage, with the world’s oldest continuous living cultures dating back thousands of years. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a profound connection to the land, and their cultures are deeply intertwined with the country’s history and identity.

Exploring Indigenous culture in Australia provides a unique opportunity to learn about the country’s rich heritage through art, storytelling, music, and traditional practices. Many regions offer cultural tours and experiences that provide insights into Indigenous customs, traditions, and the Dreamtime – the creation stories and spiritual beliefs passed down through generations.

Visiting Indigenous Heritage Sites, such as Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Kakadu National Park, allows you to witness ancient rock art, view sacred cultural sites, and gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous spirituality and connection to the land.

Art plays a significant role in Indigenous culture and is a unique expression of storytelling and identity. Aboriginal art, with its vibrant colors and intricate dot paintings, is recognized worldwide. Many regions have galleries and cultural centers dedicated to showcasing and selling Indigenous artworks, providing an opportunity to appreciate and support Indigenous artists.

Attending cultural festivals and events is another way to immerse yourself in Indigenous culture. The National Indigenous Music Awards, Garma Festival, and the Tarnanthi Festival in Adelaide are just a few examples of events that celebrate Indigenous music, dance, and performances.

Indigenous cuisine is also gaining recognition, with a focus on native ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Try bush tucker tours or dine at restaurants specializing in Indigenous cuisine to savor unique flavors and learn about the connection between food and culture.

It’s important to approach Indigenous culture with respect and understanding. Acknowledge the traditional owners of the land and their ongoing custodianship. Seek permission if you plan to visit or photograph sacred sites, and always follow any guidelines or restrictions set by Indigenous communities.

Engaging in ethical and responsible Indigenous tourism is crucial to supporting local communities and preserving cultural traditions. Choose tour operators and accommodations that have partnerships with Indigenous communities and prioritize cultural sensitivity and authenticity.

By exploring Indigenous culture and heritage, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Australia’s diverse and ancient history and contribute to the ongoing recognition and celebration of Indigenous voices and traditions.

Now, let’s embark on an underwater adventure to discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is a world-renowned natural wonder and one of Australia’s most iconic destinations. Stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the Queensland coast, this coral reef system is the largest in the world and home to an extraordinary diversity of marine life.

Exploring the Great Barrier Reef is an underwater adventure like no other. Snorkeling or diving in its crystal-clear waters allows you to immerse yourself in a vibrant world of coral gardens, colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine creatures. Swim alongside majestic manta rays or giant clams, and have the chance to spot reef sharks and dolphins.

The reef is divided into different regions, each offering unique experiences. Cairns and Port Douglas are popular starting points, with easy access to the outer reef. From here, you can join snorkeling or diving trips that take you to pristine dive sites teeming with life, such as the world-famous Agincourt Reef or the spectacular Ribbon Reefs.

The Whitsunday Islands, located further south, are a haven for beach lovers and provide access to the Great Barrier Reef through tours and charters. Whitehaven Beach, with its pure silica sand, is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

For a more secluded and off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the quieter town of Port Douglas or explore the lesser-known regions of the reef, such as the remote and pristine Lizard Island or the untouched Lady Elliot Island.

Conservation efforts are essential to preserve the Great Barrier Reef for future generations. It’s important to choose eco-friendly tour operators that prioritize sustainable practices and support reef conservation initiatives. Always follow guidelines to ensure you are respectful of the reef and its fragile ecosystem, such as not touching the corals and avoiding the use of chemical sunscreens that can harm marine life.

Aside from snorkeling and diving, there are other ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef. Take a scenic flight or helicopter ride over the reef to witness its vastness from above and admire its breathtaking colors. Join a sailing tour to explore secluded coves and anchorages, or try your hand at fishing to catch some of the delicious local seafood.

The Great Barrier Reef is more than just a natural wonder; it is a symbol of the incredible beauty and biodiversity that Australia has to offer. So, don your mask and fins, dive into the underwater paradise, and discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef firsthand.

Now that you’ve explored the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, let’s indulge in the delicious and diverse cuisine that Australia has to offer.

Food and Drink

Australia’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its culture and landscapes. From fresh seafood to global cuisines, the country’s food and drink offerings will excite the taste buds of every traveler.

Seafood lovers will delight in the abundance of fresh catch that Australia’s coastal regions have to offer. Whether it’s succulent prawns, oysters, or the famous Moreton Bay bugs, you can indulge in the flavors of the ocean. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor a traditional Australian fish and chips meal, often enjoyed with a sprinkle of lemon and a side of crispy chips.

Australian cuisine embraces multicultural influences, reflecting the country’s rich cultural diversity. From Asian flavors to Middle Eastern spices, you can experience a world of culinary delights. Explore the vibrant Chinatowns in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane for delectable dumplings, noodle dishes, and traditional Cantonese specialties.

For a true Australian experience, sample the flavors of the Outback with bush tucker, which utilizes native ingredients such as kangaroo, emu, bush tomatoes, and macadamia nuts. Indigenous restaurants and cultural centers offer opportunities to try traditional Indigenous dishes, creating a deeper understanding of the connection between food and Indigenous culture.

Indulge in Australian wines, which have gained international recognition for their quality and diversity. Explore the wine regions of the Barossa Valley, Margaret River, or Hunter Valley, where you can take wine tours, visit cellar doors for tastings, and learn about the winemaking process. If you prefer spirits, there is a booming craft distillery scene producing fine gins, whiskies, and rum.

Australians have a strong coffee culture, with cafes and specialty coffee shops found in every corner. Sample a flat white or a long black, alongside freshly baked pastries or brunch favorites such as avocado toast or smashed pumpkin on sourdough.

For a unique dining experience, consider trying “bush tucker” experiences, where Indigenous ingredients and flavors are showcased in creative and contemporary ways. Learn about traditional Aboriginal cooking techniques, taste the rich flavors of the land, and gain a deeper appreciation for Australia’s Indigenous culture.

Australia is also known for its craft beer scene, with microbreweries and craft beer bars popping up across the country. Enjoy a refreshing Australian pale ale or try unique beer styles infused with native ingredients like finger limes or wattleseeds.

Whether you’re dining in top-notch restaurants, savoring street food, or enjoying casual cafes, Australia’s food and drink scene will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. So, indulge in the flavors, raise your glass, and embark on a culinary journey through the diverse and delicious cuisine of Australia.

Now that you’ve explored the culinary delights of Australia, let’s delve into the shopping scene and discover what awaits you in the retail landscape.

Shopping in Australia

Australia offers a diverse and exciting shopping experience, catering to a range of tastes and budgets. From luxury boutiques to bustling markets, the country’s retail landscape has something for everyone.

Major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane boast world-class shopping precincts. Explore the iconic shopping boulevards of Melbourne, such as Collins Street and Chapel Street, where you can find high-end fashion labels, designer boutiques, and local Australian brands. Sydney offers a mix of luxury shopping in areas like Paddington and Double Bay, as well as bustling shopping hubs like Pitt Street Mall and Oxford Street.

Shopping centers, known as “malls” or “centres,” are abundant throughout Australia. These one-stop destinations offer a variety of retail stores, from international brands to local specialty shops. Westfield is one of the largest shopping center chains in the country, with locations in most major cities.

If you’re looking for unique and local finds, visit the vibrant markets that showcase Australian craftsmanship and local produce. The Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne, the Rocks Market in Sydney, and the Eumundi Markets on the Sunshine Coast are just a few examples of markets where you can browse through stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce.

Australia is also known for its opal and pearl jewelry. Opals, Australia’s national gemstone, come in a stunning array of colors and are often set in gold or silver. Broome in Western Australia is renowned for its South Sea pearls, which are highly sought after for their lustrous quality.

For art enthusiasts, Aboriginal art is a unique and meaningful purchase. Indigenous art galleries throughout the country showcase traditional and contemporary artworks, allowing you to support Indigenous artists and take home a piece of Australian culture.

When shopping, keep in mind that Australia has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10%, which is included in the displayed price. However, as a tourist, you may be eligible for a refund of the GST on certain purchases made at specific retailers. Look for the “Tax Free Shopping” logo and inquire about the tax refund process at the store.

Whether you’re shopping for fashion, jewelry, local crafts, or souvenirs, Australia’s shopping scene offers a diverse range of options to suit all tastes and budgets. So, grab your wallet, explore the retail landscape, and indulge in some retail therapy during your time in Australia.

Now, let’s take a look at the vibrant festival and events calendar in Australia.

Festivals and Events

Australia is known for its lively and diverse festival and events calendar, offering a wide range of cultural, sporting, and entertainment experiences throughout the year. From music festivals to food and wine events, there’s always something happening to entertain locals and visitors alike.

Sydney’s New Year’s Eve celebration is one of the most iconic events in Australia. The spectacular fireworks display over Sydney Harbour, accompanied by live music and celebrations, attracts millions of spectators from around the world.

The Australian Open, one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments, takes place in Melbourne every January. Tennis enthusiasts can watch world-class players battle it out on the courts, accompanied by a lively atmosphere and entertainment around the city.

Vivid Sydney, held annually in May and June, transforms the city into a mesmerizing display of lights, music, and art. The festival showcases spectacular light installations, projections on iconic buildings, music performances, and interactive art exhibits.

For music lovers, the Splendour in the Grass festival in Byron Bay offers a three-day celebration of music, art, and culture. This multi-genre festival features international and local artists, as well as various activities and installations.

The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival is a culinary extravaganza that celebrates Australia’s vibrant food and wine culture. With a program filled with wine tastings, cooking classes, food markets, and masterclasses, this event is a delight for food enthusiasts.

Celebrating Indigenous culture, the National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week takes place in July each year. It features a variety of events and activities across the country, showcasing Indigenous arts, culture, music, and storytelling.

The renowned Adelaide Fringe Festival is the largest open-access arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere. Held over several weeks, the festival showcases a diverse range of performances, including comedy, theatre, music, and visual arts, attracting international and local artists.

In Queensland, the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair celebrates the rich heritage and artistic contributions of Indigenous peoples. The event features art exhibitions, workshops, cultural performances, and traditional dance showcases, offering a vibrant immersion into Indigenous culture.

These are just a few examples of the many festivals and events that bring Australia to life year-round. It’s worth checking the local events calendar when planning your visit to make the most of the vibrant atmosphere and cultural experiences Australia has to offer.

Now that you’re aware of the exciting festival scene, let’s focus on important safety tips for travelers in Australia.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Australia is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always important to take precautions and practice common sense to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind during your visit:

• Stay informed: Before traveling, familiarize yourself with the local laws, customs, and regulations. Stay updated on current events and any travel advisories issued by your home country.
• Take care of your belongings: Keep your valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings. Be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded places and avoid displaying expensive items.
• Use reliable transportation: When using public transportation or taxis, choose licensed operators or reputable ride-sharing services. Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious when traveling alone at night.
• Practice water safety: Only swim at patrolled beaches and follow any warnings or instructions from lifeguards. Be aware of currents and tides, and never underestimate the power of the ocean.
• Protect yourself from the sun: Australia’s sun can be strong, so wear sunscreen and protective clothing, and stay hydrated. Be particularly cautious during the hottest parts of the day to avoid heat exhaustion or sunburn.
• Respect nature and wildlife: When exploring national parks or natural areas, follow designated paths and respect signage. Keep your distance from wildlife and refrain from touching or feeding them.
• Stay hydrated: Australia can have hot and dry climates, especially in the outback regions. Carry water with you and stay hydrated, particularly during outdoor activities and long drives.
• Plan ahead for remote areas: If you’re venturing into remote or rural areas, ensure you have sufficient supplies, including water, food, and fuel. Research road conditions and let someone know your travel plans.
• Be cautious in outdoor environments: When hiking or exploring nature, wear appropriate footwear, carry a map or GPS device, and inform someone of your plans. Check weather conditions and be prepared for sudden changes.
• Trust your instincts: If something feels unsafe or uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation. Trust your instincts and follow your gut feeling to ensure your personal safety.

By following these safety tips and using common sense, you can have a safe and worry-free trip to Australia. Remember, it’s always better to be prepared and take precautions to ensure your well-being while enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer.

Now that you’re equipped with safety knowledge, let’s explore the tipping customs in Australia.

Tipping Customs

Unlike some other countries, tipping in Australia is not as common or expected. Australia has a minimum wage that is higher compared to many other countries, and service charges are generally included in the prices displayed. However, it is becoming more common to leave a tip in certain situations as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service.

In restaurants and cafes, tipping is not mandatory, but it is generally appreciated if you feel that the service has been outstanding. Leaving a tip of 10% of the bill or rounding up to the nearest dollar is a common practice for good service. Some high-end establishments may include a service charge or have a tipping jar at the cashier, allowing you to leave a small amount if you wish.

For taxi rides, rounding up the fare to the nearest dollar is a common practice. For example, if the ride costs AUD 18.50, it is customary to round up to AUD 19. However, tipping larger amounts is not expected or mandatory.

When it comes to hotel staff, such as bellhops or housekeeping, leaving a small tip is appreciated but not compulsory. One to two dollars per bag for bellhops or a few dollars per day for housekeeping is a guideline. However, it is always best to gauge the level of service and make a decision accordingly.

It’s important to note that while tipping customs are less prevalent in Australia compared to other countries, it is ultimately a personal choice. If you have received exceptional service and wish to show your appreciation, a small tip can be a nice gesture, but it is not expected or required.

Lastly, it is worth considering supporting local businesses and communities during your visit to Australia. In addition to tipping, purchasing local products and souvenirs, dining at independently owned restaurants, and participating in local tours can contribute to the local economy and help sustain local communities.

Remember, while tipping customs vary around the world, the most important thing is to show respect and gratitude to those who have provided you with excellent service. Enjoy your time in Australia, and if you choose to tip, do so with genuine appreciation.

Now that you’re well-informed about tipping, let’s familiarize ourselves with some useful phrases in Australian English.

Useful Phrases in Australian English

Australian English has its own unique slang and phrases that may sound unfamiliar to visitors. Here are some useful phrases to help you navigate conversations and embrace the local lingo:

• G’day mate: This is a common Australian greeting that means “hello.” It’s often used to address friends or strangers in a friendly and casual manner.
• No worries: Australians frequently use this phrase to express a relaxed and laid-back attitude. It can mean “it’s okay,” “you’re welcome,” or “don’t worry about it.”
• Arvo: Short for “afternoon,” this term is commonly used to refer to the afternoon hours. For example, “I’ll see you this arvo.”
• Brekky: A commonly used term for breakfast. You’ll often hear people say, “Let’s grab brekky before we start the day.”
• Good on ya: This phrase is used to show appreciation or approval. It’s a way of saying “well done” or “good for you.”
• How ya going: Aussies often use this as a casual way of asking “how are you?” or “how’s it going?” It’s a friendly greeting for everyday conversations.
• She’ll be right: This phrase reflects the Australian attitude of optimism and resilience. It means “everything will be okay” or “it’ll all work out.”
• Sickie: This term refers to taking a day off from work due to illness. Australians may say, “I’m taking a sickie tomorrow.”
• Snag: Short for sausage. It’s commonly used when referring to a sausage served in a bread roll, especially at barbecues.
• True blue: This phrase refers to something or someone that is genuinely and authentically Australian. It’s a way of describing something that is typically Australian.

These phrases will help you navigate casual conversations and embrace the local language during your time in Australia. Embracing the unique slang and expressions can add a fun and immersive element to your experience.

Remember, Australians are generally friendly and approachable, so don’t hesitate to ask if you come across any unfamiliar terms or need clarification on something. Most Aussies will be more than happy to lend a helping hand and welcome you with open arms.

Now that you’re armed with some Aussie phrases, it’s time to enjoy your time in Australia and immerse yourself in the local culture and people.

If you have any problems or need assistance, feel free to ask for help. Enjoy your stay!

Safe travels and enjoy your time in Australia!

Australia is a captivating destination that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. From its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities to its unique wildlife and rich cultural heritage, the country has something for everyone.

During your visit, remember to take advantage of the beautiful beaches and coastal regions, immerse yourself in the diverse cuisine, and explore the natural wonders such as the Great Barrier Reef and the spectacular national parks. Engage with the local culture and embrace the unique phrases of Australian English to enhance your experience.

As you embark on your Australian adventure, keep in mind the useful tips for transportation, accommodation, and safety. Familiarize yourself with visa and immigration requirements, as well as the currency and exchange rates. Respect the environment and wildlife, follow local laws and customs, and practice responsible tourism to preserve the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Australia’s friendly and laid-back atmosphere, along with the welcoming nature of its people, will contribute to a memorable journey. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, immersing yourself in Indigenous culture, or enjoying the tranquility of remote regions, Australia guarantees an adventure beyond your wildest dreams.

So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready to create cherished memories in the land down under. Cheers, mate!

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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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• South Australia holidays
• Victoria holidays
• Western Australia holidays

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Australia For First-Timers – A Travel Guide & 6 Useful Tips

Discover the spectacular country – Australia in essence. This is the ultimate Australia travel guide – Australia for first-timers.

Australia is a vast and stunning nation to explore. There is so much to do and see, from sipping a Melbourne coffee to watching the sunset over Uluru. If you are visiting Australia for the first time, these tips below will assist you in discovering the spectacular country, in essence, it is a travel guide for Australia for first-timers .

Table of Contents

Australia Travel Guide – Australia For First-Timers

The most popular image that comes to mind when people envision travelling to Australia is the natural scenery. Cities bathed in sunlight, golden surf beaches and the vast, red outback all more than live up to the expectations. However, the lesser-known areas also provide enormous benefits. Tasmania, for instance, offers challenging hikes, quaint hospitality, and bizarre and fascinating animals. And compared to its competitors on the east coast, Western Australia’s coastline is wilder and less crowded.

Australia For First-Timers

Australia is also home to one of the oldest cultures in the world, and a trip there without taking the time to learn about Aboriginal culture is similar to seeing the Great Barrier Reef without taking a dive. Learn about the Aboriginal people, their pastimes and their relationship with the land by visiting an Indigenous cultural centre or taking a tour with an Indigenous guide and taking your time to learn the history of Australia.

Here are some of the best things to do for first-time travellers to Australia! Australia Travel Guide – Australia For First-Timers.

Best Time To Travel To Australia – Australia For First-Timers

The ideal time to travel to Australia will depend on which areas of the country you are planning to visit. Australia has two distinct climates, with the northern part being the driest and easiest to travel in between April and September. Days that are warm and bright are ideal for visiting national parks and beaches since they allow for outdoor activities like swimming and barbequing.

From October to March, the north experiences more humidity and greater rainfall, however, this is countered by the region’s busy wildlife and revitalised wetlands and rainforests.

The summer months provide hot, drier weather to Australia’s southern half, making this an ideal time to visit these regions if you’re planning outdoor activities.

The majority of Australia experiences winter from June through August. This is the ‘dry season’ in the Northern Territory, making it the perfect time to travel to the north of the nation, including Darwin, the Top End, and the Kimberley.

Best Places To See In Australia –  Australia For First-Timers

Australia is very diverse and offers something unique for every visitor, whether you are interested in experiencing the traditional way of life of the country’s indigenous people, unwinding on a sun-kissed beach, or partying through the night in a city hotspot.

Travellers to Australia are able to visit the wilderness of Tasmania one day and Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta the next.

To assist with deciding your travel priorities, I have listed some of the best places to see while you are in Australia:

Visit the astonishingly beautiful island state of Tasmania to reacquaint yourself with nature, wildlife, and your sense of taste.

Tasmania has exceptional culinary and drink offerings, compelling natural beauty, and a broad range of cultural events. A true sense of Tasmania may be found in its fresh apple cider, cheeses, wine, and oysters. Its powder-white beaches and casual luxury are the reason this state is a hotspot!

In recent times Tasmania, and particularly Hobart have become favoured by the arts and foodie crowd.  Cultural experiences like visiting MONA, or road trips through the island to taste the delicious food and wine of the region are very popular today.  And with a short flight south (under an hour) from Melbourne, Hobart and Tasmania are a hotspot to visit in the warmer months, or in Winter for a truly cool climate experience!

The sheer breadth of Australia is astounding when you look at a map and cast your eyes over it’s vastness. As a newcomer to Australia, there are many alternatives, and it might be difficult to know where to start.

Melbourne is a vibrant city that is a foodie and street art lover’s paradise. As a first-timer to Melbourne, it is highly recommended to take a walking tour, then you can venture off on your own. The greatest way to uncover Melbourne’s swankiest spots at night or delectable brunch spots is to saunter down laneways, winding your way through the city.

Melbourne is also the music capital of Australia, with live music on every night of the week.  Find a gig guide and see and hear all types of music at one of the many jazz, folk or rock venues throughout the CBD and inner suburbs of Melbourne.

Also read: Day Trips from Melbourne, Australia

Sydney is a city you won’t forget, with its recognisable landmarks and gorgeous beaches.

Sydney is home to must-see spectacles like the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, but this Harbour City is always changing. New rooftop bars, dramatic plays, and designer stores are everywhere you turn. The energy of the city is perfectly balanced with afternoons spent relaxing on the beach. Sydney is also a great base for day trips and weekend drives because of the range of nearby destinations.

Popular things to do in Sydney include visiting Luna Park, Taronga Zoo, Manly Beach or Bondi Beach, brewery crawls, brunch in Surry Hills, harbour cruises, shopping, harbour view drinks or visiting one of the many markets.

Also read: A Road Trip from Sydney to Brisbane

Byron Bay’s temperature, beaches, natural surroundings, and abundance of wellness professionals make it the ideal place for a variety of adventures and activities. Discover the beaches in the area by kayak, horseback, surfing lessons, or whale watching. Take a balloon ride over the mountains and coastal vistas or try skydiving and tick it off your bucket list. Byron Bay is the most eastern point of Australia and the diverse and interesting town is a must add to your itinerary.

Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest’s flowing vines and green canopy have been expanding for more than 180 million years and is the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. It should come as no surprise that travellers experience a sense of timelessness with each step.

The experiences you may have there, like crocodile spotting and spearfishing, are just as unique as the forest itself. Enjoy a luxurious spa, float leisurely down the river on a raft, and learn from the Kuku Yalanji, the region’s long-time guardians, who will impart their centuries-old wisdom.

Swap the business attire for the T-shirt and shorts of the tropics and explore Darwin, a thriving, diverse city. Visit the upscale Cullen Bay Marina, stroll along the wharf on a heritage trail, and indulge in diverse foods at the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets. Beyond Darwin’s small city hub, you can swim beneath falling waterfalls in Litchfield National Park and cruise alongside acrobatic crocodiles on the Adelaide River.

In Broome, there is a lot to see and do. Choose from camel rides on Cable Beach, town excursions, pearl tours, sampling the local cuisine while taking in the ideal sunset, shallow boat rides to observe dinosaur footprints, and more. Why not fly over beautiful scenery or go on a quick half-day cruise if you have more time?

There are a variety of activities in Perth that are ideal for everyone, whether you’re a local or a guest. Take a helicopter ride over Western Australia’s capital city or luxuriate in a massage as you explore the lovely Rottnest Island by ferry, bicycle, or water. There are many must-do activities in Perth because to its gorgeous, crystal-clear seas, excellent climate, and incredible natural setting!

Also read: Day Trips from Perth Australia

Best Food In Australia – Australia For First-Timers

Are you considering a vacation to Australia soon and curious about the unique cuisine on offer? Or perhaps you want to start embracing traditional Australian dishes and sweets as soon as you get to Australia?

Australia is a cultural melting pot, producing a distinctive variety of popular snacks and distinctive cuisines. From traditional Australian dishes to the impressive array of foods from other cultures available, here is a list of some of the best food to try when in Australia.

Traditional : Aussie BBQ, Seafood, Vegemite, Meat Pies, Pavlova, Parma and Anzac Biscuits.

Other Cultures : Australia also has plenty of other cultures’ food available.  From the incredible Italian Food and coffee In Melbourne, Asian food is available in Chinatown in the larger cities, Indian, middle eastern, and everything in between.

Transport in Australia -Australia For First-Timers

Trains, buses, trams, and ferries are all part of Australia’s public transportation network. In addition, cab services and Rideshare are available in all major cities and towns.

While larger capital cities normally provide a variety of transportation options, rural areas typically only have a local bus service as their primary mode of transportation. To see if you qualify for student travel discounts, check with your college.

Visa Information Australia – Australia For First-Timers

You will need to have a current Australian visa to be able to enter the country unless, of course, you are an Australian citizen. Passport holders from New Zealand can apply for a visa when they arrive. All other passport holders are required to obtain a visa before travelling, regardless of age. Use the ETA app or the Department of Home Affairs website to apply for a variety of Australian visas, such as working holiday and tourist visas.

Travellers to Australia can choose from a variety of Australian visa categories. It will depend on how long you intend to stay, if you have a current passport, and the reason for your visit, to know which Australian visa you need to apply for.

Australian Language – Australia For First-Timers

When you travel to an English-speaking nation, you start hearing some extremely odd slang phrases. Australian lingo is undoubtedly ‘interesting’! There are a few Australian slang terms that you should learn to help you navigate daily life, whether you’re planning a trip to Australia, have already arrived, or have lived on this enormous island of beauty for a while.

Despite the fact that Australia is an English-speaking nation, you can find yourself in some awkward circumstances if you don’t know the most common slang terms used there. It’s important to note that Australians frequently reduce the majority of terms in the English language.

Here are some common ‘slang’ terms:

• Maccas(McDonalds)
• It’s my shout! (I’m buying drinks)
• Chuck a sickie (Have a sick day)
• Trackies (Tracksuit pants)
• Chuck a u-ey (Take a u-turn when driving)
• Fire up the barbie (Start up the barbeque)
• Mozzie (Mosquito)

Foreign Exchange Information – Australia For First-Timers

The local currency is the Australian Dollar. For current foreign exchange rates, visit The Reserve Bank of Australia.

Ultimate Travel Tips For Australia | Australia Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Australia can initially seem difficult due to its size, but it can be a lot of fun with some advance planning and research!

With tropical rainforests in the north, arid desert in the centre, and beaches, mountains, towns, and valleys strewn throughout, the nation is incredibly diverse.

Whether you’re considering a work exchange, backpacking or simply visiting for a few days, it’s a good idea to have a basic idea of the local language, as well as knowledge of the appropriate currencies, plug adaptors, and visa requirements.

Some tips to keep in mind :

• It’s recommended to learn about the traditions and culture. You should ensure that you are integrating into the community with an understanding of the diversity and history of Australia.
• In Australia, the sun is stronger, which entails often applying sunscreen, donning sunglasses, wearing protective gear, including a hat in the middle of the day.
• English is the local language (but be aware of slang!).
• Tipping is not necessary.
• Driving is on the left side of the road!
• Australia has different electrical plugs than other continents

Reaching Australia

If you are planning a visit to Australia , you can book your flight tickets right here through Cleartrip  or Makemytrip  or  CheapAir  or  Priceline and fly to your destination in Australia.

Where To Stay While Visiting Australia

While planning a visit to Australia, if you are looking for a hotel, you can book the best hotels  in Australia right here –  TripAdvisor  or Cleartrip or  makemytrip or  goibibo or  Booking.com or  HotelsCombined or  Agoda and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.

Travel Around Australia

There is so much to see and experience in Australia . If you prefer package tours and looking for these, you can plan your Australia itinerary and book your Australia trips , right here.  So go ahead and book online places to see in Australia and popular activities in Australia and cover attractions in Australia .

Hope these suggestions for travelling to Australia are helpful, whether you’re visiting Australia for the first time or returning after a while. Travelling to Australia is a genuinely remarkable experience, discovering a wide range of cultures and sights. Anyone who wants to visit Australia can have a fantastic trip if they brush up on their knowledge, plan ahead and be prepared for an unforgettable trip!

In the comments section, do let us know your thoughts about this post – Australia For First-Timers – Australia Travel Guide.

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Animals in Australia

Australian animals you should know about.

There are so many interesting animals in Australia! Four out of five animals that live in Australia only can be found there. 

Australia is a megadiverse country and is home to an extraordinarily high amount of plant and animal species.

Among the endemic animal species - species that can only be found in Australia - are the monotremes, which are mammals that lay eggs! The platypus and two species of echidna are the world's only egg-laying mammals, so called monotremes. 

Australia has almost 400 mammal species and about 140 species of marsupials. A marsupial is an animal that carries the young in her pouch.

Half of the birds that live in Australia, can only be found there. Among the typical Australian bird species are the kookaburra, the emu and the rainbow lorikeet, an especially colourful parrot which has a red beak and a multicolour plumage.

15 Animals in Australia you should know about

Koalas are marsupials. This means that they are mammals that carry their young in a pouch. They look like cute bears but koalas are definitely not bears! 

Koalas live in eucalypt forests along the eastern coastline of Australia. They are fragile animals but grow up to 80 cm/ 2.2 ft in height and weigh only about 14 kg/ 31 lbs. Baby koalas are called 'joeys' and hide in their mothers’ pouch for the first six months. Koalas eat lots of eucalyptus leaves (1 kg/ 2.2 lbs per day) and sleep up to 20 hours!

Dingo | Animals in Australia

Dingos are the biggest carnivorous mammals in Australia. Carnivorous means meat-eating. They can be found all over Australia except for Tasmania although they mainly live in the country’s outback. A dingo looks similar to a domestic dog, but has a longer muzzle, larger pointed ears and sharper teeth. It has a brown furry coat and bushy tail. 

Dingos are wild dogs that feed mainly on small animals. Dingos stay alone, but during mating season the dingo is known to mingle with other wild dogs and to hunt in packs of three to twelve animals. 

Kangaroo 

There are about 50 million kangaroos living in Australia, that means there are many more kangaroos than people living in Australia! There are 55 different species of kangaroos. 

Wallabies are usually smaller than kangaroos but kangaroos come in all sizes. Some weigh only little and are tiny, others weigh up to 90 kg/ 198 lbs. In many rural areas, kangaroos roam in the bushland. One of the best places to experience kangaroos is Pebbly Beach, a four-hour-drive south of Sydney.

The platypus is one of the monotremes. The egg-lying animal lives along the river banks in burrows. The platypus has a brown furry body and webbed feet. With a bill like a duck as well as a tail like a beaver it looks truly unique. A platypus can grow up to 60 cm/ 2 ft in length. 

Platypus are very shy animals and quickly hide underwater if approached. If they are attacked and cannot flee, however, they inject venom through spurs in their hind legs. The venom is so strong it can kill a dog!

Australia Animals | Echidna

Animals in Australia: The echidna is also a monotreme which only grows up to 40 - 50 cm/ 1.4 ft in length and weighs about 5 - 6 kg/ 11 - 13 lbs. 

The echidna has spines on the body, which thus is covered with a prickly coat similar to a porcupine or a hedgehog. The monotreme has a long sticky tongue and eats mainly insects. When frightened, the echidna rolls into a small ball to protect itself.

Tasmanian Devil

The Tasmanian devil is an endangered animal and can only be encountered in the wild on the island of Tasmania off the southern coast of Australia. The Tasmanian devil is a marsupial and carries its young in its pouch.

Tasmanian devils are marsupials and carry up to four young. The young live in the pouch for up to four month. 

The black coated animal is as tall as a small dog, but very shy and the Tasmanian devil is nocturnal. Nocturnal means the animal is active during the night. Tasmanian devils are the largest carnivorous marsupials and have powerful jaws and teeth.

Animals in Australia Kookaburra 

This bird is the world’s largest kingfisher bird and grows up to 46 cm/ 18 inches from beak to tail! The kookaburra is known for its chuckling voice which sounds like human laughter. Laughing kookaburras can be easily heard and thus easily be spotted. Click to listen to the kookaburra's call here.

Another one of the native animals to Australia is the wombat. This burrowing animal can get really heavy and can weigh up to 36 kg/ 80 lbs. This is as much as a 10-year-old child weighs! 

Wombats can quite commonly be spotted in the Blue Mountains National Park near Sydney. Wombats feed on grasses, tips of shrubs and bushes. 

Animals in Australia: Emu

The emu is the tallest bird in Australia. It reaches up to 2 m/ 6.5 ft in hight and can run really fast, with speeds up to 50 kmh/ 31 mph. However, emus cannot fly, just like an ostrich. Emus have a varied diet: they feed on grasses and leaves, fruits and insects. 

The emus are flightless birds that defend themselves with strong powerful kicks. Their name comes from the Portuguese word ‘ ema ’ which means large bird.

The cassowary is the heaviest flightless bird in Australia. A cassowary has black feathers on the body, but the neck and face is colourful. Cassowaries have a very low frequency call which almost cannot be heard by humans. 

The cassowary has a casque, a sponge-like helmet which is covered with keratin. Keratin is the material our fingernails are made of. The cassowary is the most dangerous bird in the world as it has the most powerful kick. The foot has three toes with a dagger-like claw. The cassowary can run and swim very fast, so it easily can escape any dangerous situations.

Sydney Funnel-Web Spider

Animals in Australia: The Sydney funnel-web spider is the world’s deadliest spider. The funnel-web spider injects a deadly venom whenever it bites and death occurs within an hour. However, an anti-venom has been developed and for more than 30 years there has been no fatality.

Australians are very aware of the danger of being bitten by a funnel-web spider, so they take precautions when hiking in the bushland or working in the garden. 

The big black spiders are hairless and the spider web looks like a massive funnel - therefore it is hard to miss! The webs can be spotted between logs and rocks along the Sydney coastline. 

Australian Box Jellyfish

The Australian box jellyfish is the most venomous marine animal. The jellyfish with a box-like shape has long tentacles that inject poison when touched. The dangerous tentacles are up to 3 m/ 10 ft long. 

These jellyfish can swim in contrary to most other jellyfish that can only float. So make sure to stay out of the water if there are warning signs during jellyfish season in summer.

Animals in Australia Crocodiles

Crocodile Dundee told us about them in his adventures and we all know that there are crocodiles in Australia.

Two crocodile species can be found on the Australian continent. The freshwater crocodile which only can be found in Australia and the saltwater or estuarine crocodile. Both can actually live in freshwater and saltwater. The saltwater crocodiles are the world’s largest reptiles. Salties, as saltwater crocodiles are referred to by many Australians, grow up to 6 m/ 20 ft long and weigh up to one tonne. 

When waiting for prey, crocodiles can remain completely motionless for as long as an hour. When hunting, they lie either half-submerged in water or hide underwater. They can hold their breath for about one hour and have transparent eyelids, so they can see their prey even when underwater.

Great White Shark

Along Australia’s coastline there are about 5,500 great white sharks. Great white sharks are not the largest shark species in the world, but certainly impressive. They can become massive, up to 7 m/ 23 ft in length - this is almost half the length of a basketball court!

Once a shark is fully fed, it can live without food for three month without any further meal. 

Sharks follow the vibrations in water when sourcing for prey. They have a very good sense of smell and can also detect the scent of blood from about 4.8 km/ 3 miles away. 

Animals in Australia Australian Coastal Taipan

Some of the world’s most venomous snakes such as the coastal taipan can be found in Australia. Other dangerous Australian snakes are the inland taipan and the tiger snake. 

The coastal taipan grows up to 4 m/ 13 ft in length. However, don’t worry too much about encountering snakes in the wild. Snakes like to be left alone and they usually only attack when feeling threatened.  

Did you know...?

Animals in Australia : Less people die every year from snake bites or shark attacks in Australia than from bee stings!

Correction: Many Thanks to Kristen Robinson from Australia!

There are no poisonous snakes in Australia. Australian snakes are known for their dangerous bites and they hardly ever spit (such as African cobras!). Australian snakes are thus venomous.

Venomous: If you get bitten or stung, then this is venom. 

Poisonous: If you eat, like, swallow, inhale or absorb a dangerous substance through your skin, this is poison. If u can die when you touch it, the object is poisonous (such as a poison dart frog) 

Resource: Stephanie Root. "Venomous versus poisonous."   US National Park Service . 18 July 2018. Last accessed 28 February 2023

Popular Pages

Resources | animals in australia.

• Australian Koala Foundation. "Interesting Facts About Koalas". SaveTheKoala . Last accessed 28 February 2023
• New South Wales Government. "Platypus and other native animals in Australia". NSW Government . Last accessed 28 February 2023
• Wildlife Alliance. "The Cassowary". San Diego Zoo . Last accessed 28 February 2023
• Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife. "Tasmanian Devil". ParksTasmania . Last accessed 28 February 2023
• Shannon Verhagen. "World's Deadliest Spider: The Funnel Web."  Australian Geographic. 13 February 2017. Last accessed 28 February 2023
• Gemma Chilton. "Welcome to Croc Country." Australia Geographic . 29 March 2016. Last accessed 28 February 2023
• National Ocean Service. "Australian Box Jellyfish".   NOAA . Last accessed 28 February 2023
• Allie Metz. "Guide to Australia's Animals".  T ourism Australia . Last accessed 28 February 2023

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