4 days trip in australia

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Australia 4-Day Tours and Itineraries

Discover the best 4-Day multi-day tours in Australia with Bookmundi. We offer a total of 16 Australia 4-Day tours and itineraries with 5 customer reviews.

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16 Trips in Australia with 5 Reviews

Starts Hobart, Australia
Ends Hobart, Australia

Hobart & Southern Tasmania Explorer

Best price guaranteed
No booking fees
Tour Type Small Group Tour
Activities Active and outdoor & Natural landmarks sightseeing
Accommodation Hotel
Transport Ferry & Private Vehicle
Age Range 15-99 yrs
Operated in English
Jun 21 Only 4 seats left
View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Starts Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park, Australia
Ends Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park, Australia

Uluru Explorer

Tour Type Group Tour
Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing
Accommodation Lodge & Hotel
Transport Coach
Age Range 18-35 yrs
Brochure Price: US$ 835
Special Deal (15%): - US$ 125
Total Price from: US$ 710
Apr 20 10+ seats left
May 27 Only 5 seats left

Starts Darwin, Australia
Ends Darwin, Australia

Tropical Top End

Activities National parks & Natural landmarks sightseeing
Accommodation Hotel & Resort
Age Range 1-95 yrs
May 04 Only 6 seats left
May 07 Only 8 seats left

Starts Alice Springs, Australia
Ends Alice Springs, Australia

Uluru & Kings Canyon Adventure

Activities Explorer
Accommodation Camping, Tent & Resort
Transport Private Vehicle
Brochure Price: US$ 1,125
Special Deal (20%): - US$ 225
Total Price from: US$ 900
Apr 13 Only 1 seat left
Apr 27 10+ seats left

Starts Cairns, Australia
Ends Cairns, Australia

Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Activities National parks & Marine wildlife
Transport Coach & Boat
Apr 12 10+ seats left
Apr 13 Only 9 seats left

Starts Sydney And NSW, Australia
Ends Sydney, Australia

Mountains, Wine and Wildlife – 4 Day Adventure Tour

Trip customizable
Activities Mountains & Wildlife Mountains , Wildlife , Wine tasting tours & Food tours 'data-more-tripid='43971'>+2 more
Accommodation Hostel & Lodge
Transport 4WD Jeep & Boat
Age Range 18-49 yrs

Best of the Top End & Kakadu

Brochure Price: US$ 1,960
Special Deal (25%): - US$ 490
Total Price from: US$ 1,470
May 16 Only 8 seats left
May 28 Only 10 seats left

Trending Destinations in Australia

Starts Port Douglas, Australia

Rainforest & Reef – 4-Day Boutique Tour

Activities Nature and bush walks & Rainforest and jungle visits Nature and bush walks , Rainforest and jungle visits & Wildlife 'data-more-tripid='43583'>+1 more
Transport Boat, Flight & Ferry
Age Range 18-89 yrs

Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Family Adventure

Activities Explorer & Family
Accommodation Camping & Tent
Age Range 5-99 yrs
Jun 29 10+ seats left
Jul 04 10+ seats left

Best of Uluru & Kings Canyon

Brochure Price: US$ 1,950
Special Deal (15%): - US$ 292
Total Price from: US$ 1,658
May 19 Only 8 seats left
Jun 16 Only 2 seats left

Ends Sydney And NSW, Australia

Port Stephens From Sydney - 4 days

Accommodation Hostel
Transport Private Vehicle & Boat
Age Range 18-80 yrs
Apr 25 10+ seats left
May 16 10+ seats left

Daintree Rainforest Discovery - 4 days

Transport Private Vehicle & Ferry
Brochure Price: US$ 1,655
Special Deal (20%): - US$ 331
Total Price from: US$ 1,324
May 18 10+ seats left
Jun 01 10+ seats left

Ends Adelaide, Australia

Outback Explorer Uluru to Adelaide

Brochure Price: US$ 1,725
Special Deal (10%): - US$ 172
Total Price from: US$ 1,553
Aug 10 Only 7 seats left
Jun 14 Only 9 seats left

Ends Yulara, Australia

Uluru & Kings Canyon Family Adventure

Accommodation Camping & Hotel
Jul 02 Only 8 seats left
Jul 06 10+ seats left

Traveling to Australia for 4 days? Chat with a local travel specialist in Australia who can help organize your trip.

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Your Perfect Australia Itinerary For 1-4 Weeks

Post last modified: January 3, 2024
Post category: 10+ Days / Australia / Itineraries

Australia is huge! Like the size of the continental U.S. huge. So don’t assume you can see it all in a few days. You need a month or more to travel to all of the territories in Australia. And Australia can be expensive. However, Australia is also the most amazing place we’ve ever been! And we want you to have an amazing Australian vacation too. So we’ve put together our three week Australia itinerary that includes all the best stops along the Eastern coast. We’ve also included plenty of suggestions to help you plan a 1, 2, 3, or 4 week Australia itinerary that is perfect for you.

Stuff In This Post

How Many Days In Australia Is Enough?

You need at least one week to see just one or two regions of Australia. If you want to see all the main tourism areas you’ll need at least one month.

How To Plan Your Perfect Australia Itinerary?

First, you need to decide how much time you have. Next, you need to decide what you really want to see. Sure Cairns has the Great Barrier Reef , but if you don’t like snorkeling or scuba diving, do you really want to spend time there? So what is important to you?

We’ve broken down popular travel regions and listed how many days we think you need to visit that location. You can easily piece together your own itinerary with all of these mini itineraries.

New South Wales – 1 week

Sydney – 3 days
Sydney Day Trips – 1-2 days
Pacific Coast road trip – 3-4 days

Northern Territory – 4 days

Alice Springs – 1 day
Uluru – 3 days

Queensland – 1+ week

Cairns – 4 days ( Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest)
Brisbane – 1 day
The Queensland Coast – 4-5 days

South Australia – 3 days

Adelaide – 2 days
Kangaroo Island – 1 day

Tasmania – 5 days

Victoria – 5 days

Melbourne – 2 days
Phillip Island – 1 day
Great Ocean Road – 2 days

Western Australia – 9+ days

Perth – 2 days
Western Coast Road Trip – 1+ week

How To Get Around Australia?

First, several areas of Australia are perfect for the road trip! And traveling by car in Australia is easy to do. It’s also much cheaper to rent a car in Australia than in the US – something about insurance – which was really nice. Road trips are an affordable way to get around Australia. However, gas can be expensive so make sure you get a vehicle that has good gas milage.

However, Australia is HUGE – did we mention that already. So you can’t drive everywhere unless you have unlimited time. And quite honestly there are some places that you wouldn’t enjoy the drive either. This is where domestic Australian flights come in. Those are also really cheap compared with domestic flights in the US.

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So using a combination of domestic Australian flights and scenic road trips you’ll be able to see all of Australia without breaking the budget.

Three Week Australia Itinerary

This is the three week Australia itinerary that we followed. It was our favorite vacation we’ve ever taken and also one of the cheapest per day. Feel free to use the entire vacation or pick and choose days to make your own perfect Australia itinerary.

Day 1 – Arrive in Australia

A big portion of your morning will likely be spent arriving in Australia and getting your rental car. Most international Australian flights from the U.S. arrive in Sydney so you’ll likely have to take a connecting flight to Melbourne to start this Australia itinerary. We arrived in Melbourne around 11 AM and started this itinerary from there.

First things first, listen to Down Under by Men At Work to start your vacation right!

Then drive straight through Melbourne and on to Phillip Island.

Stay overnight on Phillip Island in a cute home rental.

Day 2 – Phillip Island

On our first day in Australia, we took it easy as we adjusted to the time difference. And what is more relaxing than seeing Australian critters and walking the beach?

While you await the nightly Penguin Parade, consider walking along the beaches or visiting the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit . We would have liked to visit the Grand Prix for a tour but there was an actual event happening when we visited so we walked the beaches instead. However, we did notice that most beaches in the area were beautiful but the waves were too aggressive for swimming when we visited.

Next, head to the Phillip Island Nature Park . Here you’ll get great views of the ocean and you’ll probably spot your first kangaroo/wallaby.

PS: We asked several Australians how to tell the difference between kangaroos and wallabies and the answer was size. When we asked how to tell the difference between a big wallaby and a small kangaroo, no one could tell us.

Grab a quick dinner before it gets dark.

Once it gets dark, the Penguin Parade begins. Grab your tickets ahead of time and come ready to spot the cute tiny penguins as they go to their burrows from the ocean at the end of the day.

Stay overnight on Phillip Island again.

Day 3 – Melbourne

First, wake up early to start your journey back into Melbourne .

Spend the day exploring Melbourne. Keep in mind that there is a free tram that goes through the Central Business District of Melbourne that you can use for all of your transportation needs. So find somewhere to park your car for the day. We chose Melbourne accommodations that had free parking.

For a full list of fun things to do in Melbourne, check out our post here.

Our most highly recommended piece of Melbourne advice for your day is to visit the Queen Victoria Market for lunch. This farmers market meets flea market is a great place to sample some of the local Australian fare. We bought little snacks throughout the market to make up our lunch.

Next, spend your evening enjoying a game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. There are games almost every night and any game is impressive in this stadium.

Stay overnight in Melbourne.

Day 4 – The Great Ocean Road

First, drive west of Melbourne to take the greatest road trip of all time, The Great Ocean Road . This is one of the best road trips we’ve ever been on. The views are gorgeous.

For this part of your Australia itinerary, you’ll drive as far west as you can get in the day along the coast. The Twelve Apostles are the show stopper along this road trip so plan to spend most of your time enjoying these viewpoints.

For more information on visiting the Twelve Apostles, check out the guide here.

Stay overnight along the Great Ocean Road; we stayed in a home rental in Port Campbell .

Day 5 – The Great Ocean Road

You may be able to spend a bit of your day continuing west to finish up any Twelve Apostle sights that you weren’t able to see yesterday.

Then, head back east to Melbourne along the inland road.

Here, you’ll want to spend plenty of time exploring the oldest rainforest and looking for koalas in the wild.

For more details on this two day Great Ocean Road Trip, check out our complete itinerary here.

**Alternative transportation option** We like driving ourselves around and the freedom that gives us. However, if you don’t, you could forgo the self drive options here and ditch the rental car. There are Phillip Island half-day trips and Great Ocean road overnight trips that you can take with tour companies from Melbourne. By buying from this link , we’ll earn a commission at no extra cost to you so we can afford to keep this blog up and running.

Head back into Melbourne and stay overnight near the airport .

Day 6 – Travel and Kuranda

First, catch an early morning flight from Melbourne to Cairns. This flight, with airport and travel time, took about 6 hours. You’ll need an early morning flight if you want to have time to visit Kuranda.

Next, take a taxi from the airport to your accommodations and get your bags stored before heading to Kuranda . You will not need a rental car in Cairns as you can rely on tours to get you around. Take the tram car up to the mountain to explore Kuranda before taking the railroad back down.

Finally, spend the evening walking along the Esplanade Boardwalk and exploring the town of Cairns. Most shops along the boardwalk stay open late.

For more ideas on things to do in Cairns, check out our post here.

Lastly, eat at Prawn Stars . Period. The coolest seafood restaurant we’ve ever been to.

Stay overnight in Cairns . Try to stay somewhere with free luggage storage so you can leave extra luggage on land when you explore the Great Barrier Reef. Lots of hotels in the area offer this as reef tours here are popular.

Day 7 & 8 – The Great Barrier Reef

Next, spend two days on a live aboard dive trip or an overnight snorkeling trip exploring the Great Barrier Reef . This is a bucket list worthy adventure and you need two days to do it. This is because most of the best dive sites are farther out and take several hours to get to. Two days exploring the Great Barrier Reef is totally worth the extra money this overnight tour will cost you. Read more about our tour here.

Return to Cairns in the evening and stay another night there.

Day 9 – Daintree National Park

Take a day tour into the Daintree National Park . Most day trips include visits to Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation and plenty of time in the rainforest.

Stay overnight in Cairns.

Day 10 – Brisbane

First, get another early morning flight from Cairns to Brisbane for the final leg of your trip. We caught another early flight and were in Brisbane before lunch. Once in Brisbane, rent a car as you’ll be driving the Pacific Coast from Brisbane to Sydney.

You’ll likely arrive in the afternoon and there are two great options. First, you can drive a few hours to the Australia Zoo . Alternatively, you can drive a little less for an amazing beach just outside of Brisbane. Some of the best beaches are along this stretch of the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Whatever you choose to do it will be fabulous.

Stay overnight in Brisbane.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary - kangaroo feeding

Day 11 – Brisbane

Next, spend the day exploring Brisbane.

For a full list of activities, check out the things to do in Brisbane here.

Whatever you end of doing, make sure to check out the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary . This is one of the best zoos we’ve ever been to and the opportunity to interact with Australian critters here is amazing.

Check out our full post on what to expect at Lone Pine here.

Day 12-15 – Australia’s Pacific Coast

Spend 4 days making your way down the sunshine coast as you drive one of Australia’s best road trips.

Want more information on all of the stops, we wrote all about our road trip here.

One the end of day 14 of this Australia itinerary, stay overnight in Newcastle .

Day 16 – The Blue Mountains

Start early in the morning so you can spend one full day exploring the Blue Mountains . Additionally, don’t forget to take a tour of the Jeolan Caves as well.

To learn more about our one day Blue Mountain itinerary, check out our post here.

Stay overnight in a home stay in Katoomba.

Day 17 – Bondi Beach

First, spend the morning driving to Sydney, specifically Bondi Beach . Spend a few hours here relaxing and soaking up the sun. After you’re done at the beach, do all or part of the Bondi to Coogee Coastal walk .

Next, return your rental car. You won’t need it to get around Sydney if you are staying near public transport so this will save you a bit of money. Then head to your Sydney accommodations to get checked in a drop off luggage.

Stay overnight near public transportation in Sydney .

Day 18 – Sydney Sights

Spend the first day in Sydney doing a hop-on-hop-off tour of Sydney . We love these types of tours in large cities as it gives us an opportunity to learn about everything but only focus time on the things that interest us.

However, there are two sights that every Sydney visitor needs to see and that is the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera house .

For the breakdown of how we spent our time in Sydney, check out our detailed Sydney itinerary here.

Day 19 – More Sydney

Spend the final day of your Australia itinerary, exploring more of Sydney. There is plenty of history and nature to explore in Sydney. Don’t forget to stop in at the Australian Museum to learn all about the country you’ve been tramping around for the past three weeks of this Australian itinerary.

For a full list of popular things to do in Sydney, check out our list here.

Day 20 – travel home.

Finally, wake up and enjoy your last breakfast in Australia on this final day of your Australia itinerary. Catch a flight home.

Want To Adjust the Australia Itinerary?

One australia itinerary.

With one week in Australia, most people stick to New South Wales. Honestly, this wasn’t our favorite area in Australia . However, it is the region with the most to do packed into the smallest area, which makes it a great spot if you are short on time. It also makes it cheaper as you have to spend less on transportation costs.

Day 1-3 – Sydney – follow Days 17-19 above
Day 4 – Blue Mountains – follow Day 16 above
Day 5-7 – Drive Australia’s Pacific Coast from Sydney to Brisbane, make sure to stop at least one night in Byron Bay

Additionally, with one week in Australia, you could pick two cities to base yourself in and then explore farther afield with days trips.

Our suggestion would be Melbourne and Cairns, our two favorite cities in Australia.

Day 1 – Melbourne
Day 2-3 – Great Ocean Road trip
Day 4 – fly to Cairns, see Cairns
Day 5-6 – Great Barrier Reef liveaboard
Day 7 – Daintree Rainforest tour

However, we understand that most people want to see Sydney on a Australian vacation . So this one week in Australia itinerary includes Cairns and Sydney.

Day 1-2 – Sydney – follow Days 17-18 above
Day 3 – Blue Mountain day trip

Two Week Australia Itinerary

Two weeks in Australia is possibly the hardest Australia itinerary to decide upon. Because you can see a ton of different things OR you can really delve in to a few areas and do some road trips. We would recommend visiting Cairns, Sydney and Melbourne and doing short trips from those areas.

Day 1-2 – Melbourne, with a day trip (or half day trip) to Phillip island
Day 3-4 – Great Ocean Road trip
Day 5 – fly to Cairns, see Cairns
Day 6-7 – Great Barrier Reef liveaboard
Day 8 – Daintree Rainforest tour
Day 9 – fly to Sydney
Day 10-12 – Sydney , follow days 17-19 above
Day 13-14 – Blue Mountains

Four Week Australia Itinerary

With four weeks in Australia, you can add in a visit to Uluru. Honestly, most three week Australia itineraries include a visit to Uluru and skip Victoria. However, when we visited Australia, we’d just got done spending a lot of time in Arizona, so we were kinda desert rock-ed out. However, with four weeks in Australia, you can visit Victoria, then South Australia, the Northern Territory, then Queensland and lastly New South Wales.

Days 1-5 – Victoria – follow the Day 1-5 itinerary above
Day 6 – Continue driving the Great Ocean Road on to Adelaide
Day 7 – Take a day trip to Kangaroo Island
Day 8 – Explore Adelaide in the morning, Fly to Alice Springs in the afternoon
Day 9 – Explore Alice Springs
Day 10-13 – Explore Uluru , including Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon
Day 14-17 – Queensland – follow the Day 6-9 itinerary above
Day 18-28 – New South Wales – follow the Day 10-20 itinerary above

We hope that this three week Australian itinerary has helped you to plan your own Australia vacation. If you need more inspiration for planing your Australian vacation, check out all of our Australia posts here.

A Wonderful Day Trip to Kew Gardens

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: What You Need To Know

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The Perfect 4-Day Itinerary For Australia’s Gold Coast

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The Gold Coast is 34 miles of white sandy beaches and aqua blue water fringed by a green hinterland. The Queensland weather is beautiful one day and picture-perfect the next. As a holiday destination, the Gold Coast is one of the best places to immerse yourself in Australia’s national colors: green and gold. There’s the golden sands and glitz of the Gold Coast, plus the green of the nearby hinterland, with its walking tracks in subtropical forests, national parks, and wellness retreats.

Timing A Stop On The Gold Coast

Like Florida, Australia’s famous Gold Coast has beaches and theme parks, making it a popular destination for family and multi-generational travel. To avoid these crowds, plan your visit outside of Australian school holidays and the two-week celebration known as schoolies , which is somewhat similar to spring break in the U.S.

Visiting in these quieter times means access to first-class amenities without the crowds. The Gold Coast boasts some of Australia’s best beaches, and each has its own unique vibe. Some of the best include: Main Beach, Surfers Paradise Beach, Kurrawa Beach, Mermaid Beach, Miami Beach, Burleigh Heads, Palm Beach, Snapper Rocks, Kirra Beach, and Greenmount Beach at Coolangatta. Since the Gold Coast is a long strip, you can walk between many of these. An interactive beach map is available here (scroll down the linked page to see it).

Beautiful beach views on Australia's Gold Coast.

Vaclav Mach / Shutterstock

Most beaches are patrolled and manned by lifeguards. For your safety, swim between the flags. The Gold Coast boasts a fit and tanned lifestyle and offers miles of ocean view walking paths, bike tracks, free outdoor fitness equipment, and over 40 golf courses . High-rise buildings offer apartments with magnificent ocean views, and there are also more private options such as glam vans and small docked yachts . The abundance of accommodation means good prices. You can book a water-view apartment with a balcony from around $100 a night.

Most tourists stay in the area known as Surfers Paradise, which has a strip of souvenir shops, but nearby Broadbeach is more sophisticated with trendy boutiques and cafes. Gold Coast meals range from eating inexpensively at local surf clubs right on the beach to dining at award-winning chef-hatted restaurants . Then, behind the high-rise buildings and the glitz of the Gold Coast is the nurturing solace of the green hinterland.

The following four-day itinerary is concentrated on some of the lesser-known Gold Coast activities that invite you to sample the green and the gold. These recommendations will help you plan your trip and inspire an itinerary for when you can travel to Australia.

Day 1: Gold Coast

A day perhaps for just coasting. Although, even if sleeping in, send your early riser off to buy fresh seafood direct from the returning trawlers. Collectively called the Fishermen’s Co-Operative , these boats are where locals and chefs source tiger and king prawns (shrimp, raw or cooked), spanner crabs, and lobster, also called Balmain bugs.

For breakfast, Bumbles is a homey house turned cafe that’s popular with locals who try to keep it their secret. Despite the buzzy name, Bumbles is in a residential area overlooking the river. Feast your eyes on the homemade cakes for future afternoon tea rewards. Or, if you just need to kick-start your day, Stairwell , a hole-in-the-wall place, has great coffee. Perhaps you could brave one of their Vegemite bagels. Ask for just a smear as the sharp taste of Vegemite takes some getting used to.

Surfers Paradise in Gold Coast, Australia.

Destination Gold Coast

Now for a walk that puts the Gold Coast in perspective. The Federation Walk Coastal Reserve offers sweeping views of the linear Gold Coast coastline that spans from Surfers Paradise to Coolangatta. Start at Philip Park, opposite the Sea World entrance parking lot. The easy 4.3-mile round trip walk suits all fitness levels as there are numerous rest stops and a cafe at the end. Along this tree-lined walk, you’ll have glimpses of the ocean where you can spot sea eagles or even breaching humpback whales. The locals you spy will be at their finest: surfing, bike riding, running, and meditating.

Most of us like to hunt down shopping bargains on vacation. One of my holiday haunts is Harbour Town Premium Outlets , which has 240 outlet stores. There’s a stunning new open-air dining precinct lined with palm trees. While it’s the place for big-name international brands, it is worth noting that some, such as UGG and Oroton, started in Australia (the boots were invented by an Australian surfer and the luxury handbag company was founded in 1938 ). The gifts I tend to buy are surf and leisurewear; they’re great for outfitting my teenage grandchildren. If you have a non-shopping partner, there’s free Wi-Fi at the outlets, or perhaps they need a gentle reminder about all those golf courses.

Rick Shores restaurant in Gold Coast, Australia.

Rick Shores / Shutterstock

For dinner, throw prawns on the “barbie.” Your accommodation may have barbecues in its bougainvillea trailing gardens. If not, there are over 380 public barbecues in Gold Coast beach reserves that offer surf and sunset views.

Or, if everyone in your party slept in this morning, head out for Kingfish sashimi and oysters served with a Thai vinaigrette at Rick Shores . The restaurant has epic views of Rainbow Bay overlooking the famous Snapper Rocks surf break. Finish off with one of Gelato Messina’s 40 freshly churned flavors of gelato and a seaside wander.

Day 2: Gold Coast Waterways

As the Gold Coast is a waterside paradise, lap it up. Try breakfast at the Palazzo Versace with its bespoke Versace furnishings. Perhaps coffee or morning mimosas beside the 200-foot lagoon pool in your very own private cabana. There are views of the marina in the distance and of the passing superyachts and boats, although you may find yourself celebrity spotting instead. I won’t name drop, but since the Gold Coast is home to Village Roadshow Studios (the largest studios in the Southern Hemisphere), Hollywood star sightings are common.

View the Gold Coast’s tall buildings from the perspective of being out at sea. Set sail aboard a luxurious chartered catamaran with Sailing in Paradise , or in whale-watching season (generally May to November), experience the wondrous sight of migrating humpback whales with Sea World Cruises or Spirit of Gold Coast’s whale watching charters. These depart right next door to the Palazzo Versace from the Mariners Cove Marina, next to Marina Mirage.

Have a late lunch at the award-winning Marina Restaurant at Southport Yacht Club . Enjoy stunning views of the club’s private 300-yacht marina while you tuck into oysters Kilpatrick, Moreton Bay bug meat (lobster) linguine, and a glass of Australian wine.

In the late afternoon, jump in the car or an Uber for a six-minute drive (or take the 30-minute walk) to the popular and aptly named Surfers Paradise precinct. Surfers, as Aussies call it, is a mecca for entertainment, beachside shopping, dining, and trendy bars. Wander along the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets dotting the foreshore at the end of Cavill Avenue, where local artisans sell fashion items, tasteful souvenirs, knickknacks, and locally made foodstuffs. The markets are open Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday nights starting at 5 p.m.

Views of Gold Coast from Burleigh Heads.

Day 3: Burleigh Heads And Currumbin

Time to turn from the gold to the green. Burleigh Head National Park is a 30-minute drive from the Gold Coast and is free to enter. The Ocean View track is an easy 0.8-mile (one way) trail that offers spectacular views of the seaway entrance of Tallebudgera Creek, the neighboring coastline of Palm Beach, and vistas all the way to Surfers Paradise. For a swim, turn right at the fork 10 minutes into your walk via the south Tallebudgera Creek entrance to visit secluded Echo Beach. Or there’s a patrolled, lifeguarded area at Burleigh Heads Beach at the north end of the park. The other walk is the Rainforest Circuit (1.4 miles round trip). This is more challenging with 100 steps and several gradually inclined paths, but the reward is a viewing platform with unobstructed views of the southern Gold Coast.

For rejuvenation, head to Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat tucked away in the lesser-known hinterland region of Tallebudgera Valley. Partly owned by actor Hugh Jackman, it’s an impressive ecotourism-certified retreat with indoor and outdoor spa rooms, meditation suites amidst the trees, and a large elevated outdoor deck and lounge area with stunning views. It is not open for walk-ins, but you can prebook an incredible range of luxurious spa treatments for both men and women. Or, stay here in tasteful lodging including heritage cottages and villas built over the water. If staying for a wellness or detox program, they offer Qi Gong (a type of meditation), guided walks, yoga, wellness seminars, and organic meals. Note the minimum stay is two nights, which can be enjoyed as part of Gwinganna’s Graceful Ageing package .

If not spending the day at the spa, there is a lot to do in Currumbin. Freeman’s Organic Farm (normally open Friday to Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) has a cafe with wonderful valley views, organic produce sales, and Sunday farm tours. If heading back to your coastal accommodation, then a stop at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place for tourists who would dearly love to hold a koala. This experience needs to be booked in advance. If you just wish to observe koalas in their treetops, then general zoo entry will suffice. Throw into this eventful day a tasting of award-winning beer at Balter Brewing Company .

Day 4: Gold Coast To Canungra

O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards with its picturesque grounds stretching alongside the banks of Canungra Creek is less than an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast. Part of this complex includes Killowen, a historic homestead serving gourmet breakfasts, indulgent lunches, and simple wine tastings at the bar. Outside options include barbecue or antipasto picnics on the lawns by the creek. For a novelty date, book one of the resident alpacas . Your assigned cutie comes with a lead so they can accompany you on a walk through the vines as you search for the perfect picnic spot.

Just 45 minutes from Canungra Valley Vineyards is O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat , which offers a host of free activities from treetop walks and feeding rainforest birds including Crimson Rosellas and King Parrots to short strolls in the surrounding 99 miles of nature trails. You could easily spend the whole day here. Paid experiences include a four-wheel-drive tour through an ancient rainforest to the mystical Glow Worm Grotto and a billy (campfire) tea and history tour. Or head to O’Reilly’s Lost World Day Spa for facials, massages, and even a unique vinotherapy session that affords vacationers the anti-aging properties and novelty of soaking in locally made wine. Meals are available on site and O’Reilly’s has the stunning Moonlight Crag deck with wonderful sunset views.

If not heading back to the Gold Coast for the night, there are 48 self-contained villas on the property. Stay the night and you can experience magnificent views of the western McPherson Ranges and wider Scenic Rim region, not to mention an unforgettable sunset right from your villa door. Have additional time? Head north from Canungra for more coastline on our Great Barrier Reef road trip: Bundaberg to Daintree .

Nadine Cresswell-Myatt of Red Bag Will Travel took her first plane trip at age eight. This would not be so unusual except she was flying solo and had never seen a plane before: what were her parents thinking? This adventure set her course for life. For over 25 years, she has crafted stories about her travel adventures for newspapers, magazines, and online travel sites, as well as training others how to do the same. You can follow her international travel on Instagram or read about her Australian jaunts at WeekendNotes . Yes, she’s an Aussie, but with children and grandchildren around the globe and her ability to travel with only a red carry-on bag, you might just find her popping up anywhere. And she still travels solo.

4-Day Melbourne Itinerary

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Melbourne in 4 days
1-Day Melbourne Itinerary
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The perfect 4-day Sydney itinerary, Australia

Updated On 1st February, 2024

When heading to Australia, Sydney is often up there at the top of one’s bucket list… and for good reason too.

Located in New South Wales, on the East Coast of Australia, Sydney is world famous for its Harbour Bridge , the Sydney Opera House and it’s annual New Year firework spectacular (to name just a few things). Travellers come from all over the world to experience this city-seaside destination. Sydney is also a very popular destination choice for those embarking on a desirable working holiday visa in Australia .

Sydney is one of the best places to visit in Australia and not one you should miss off your East Coast Australia bucket list.

Sydney is often the touchdown point for travellers arriving in Australia because of Sydney’s International Airport located just outside the city centre, but that’s not the only reason to find yourself here. Whether it’s to indulge in the northern beaches and explore the seaside surf town of Manly , walk the famous Coogee to Bondi coastal walk, grab brunch at one of the many brunch spots in Sydney, explore one of Sydney’s many stunning walks or to have an early evening cocktail at the Opera House bar for sunset , Sydney has everything you desire from lazy beach days to cosmopolitan cocktails downtown.

There’s is so much to do in Sydney and so if you want to cover all of the best things to do in Sydney, I’d suggest putting aside a week to explore. However, if you’re short on time but still looking for some fun things to do in Sydney, I’ve created a 4-day Sydney itinerary and a 3-day Sydney itinerary to inspire you.

In this blog post, I’ve jam-packed 4 days’ worth of Sydney adventure into an itinerary that will have you seeing the very best of Sydney!

Here’s the perfect 4-day Sydney itinerary…

Day 1 of your sydney itinerary.

First things first, arrive at and check into your accommodation, drop your cases, freshen up, and get ready to explore the best things to do in Sydney!

If you aren’t sure where to stay in Sydney, check out my Sydney hostel guide here.

If you’re looking for a new set of suitcases, I’ve recently invested in the LEVEL8 luggage and I love them! I went for the Textured Luggage 2 Piece Set in Olive Drab because of their unique colour (I can actually tell which is my luggage on the conveyor belt now haha!).

I’d highly recommend checking them out if you need a new set, they are so smooth to travel with. Worth noting that these ones have 360 spinner wheels, TSA-approved combination lock, and inner dividers AND they are super lightweight!

The perfect 4-day Sydney itinerary, Australia

Explore The Rocks. Wander around one of the oldest parts of Sydney, located just beside Sydney Harbour Bridge. Look around the boutique shops, grab lunch in one of the gorgeous cafes, or grab a smoothie on the go. The Rocks Market is every Sat/Sun from 10am-5pm & the Foodie Market is every Friday 9am-3pm

Another option is Surry Hills . Another gorgeous superb of Sydney, you could easily spend the day wandering the flower and pastel filled streets, stumbling across dreamy vintage stores, bakeries and breakfast spots.

See my guide to Surry Hills here.

Do you want coffee or brunch before you head out on your day trip from Sydney? Here’s my coffee and brunch guide to Sydney.

After a super busy day exploring the city, you’ll probably want to relax this evening! You could…

Watch the sunset from Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair.

Walk past the Opera House and continue along the waterfront until you reach this point, where you will get a view like no other of the sun setting over the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

Have a drink and food at the Opera Bar.

Located just beside the Opera House itself with incredible views over the landmark, grab your favourite cocktail or glass of bubbles and toast to the incredible adventure you are just beginning!

Short on time? Here’s a 3-day itinerary for Sydney.

Day 2 of your Sydney itinerary

After a day of city life, I think it’s time for a day out!

My favourite day trip in the area means going to the Blue Mountains.

Grab a car, hop on a train or book a group excursion to the outer region of Sydney where this World Heritage-listed phenomenon lies. Partake in a bit of outdoor activity or simply grab lunch at one of the restaurants and take in the views.

To get inspired for your trip to the Blue Mountains, check out these blog posts:

My self-guided trip to the Blue Mountains and Wentworth Falls
The Coast Warrior Blue Mountain group tour with RatPack Travel

If you book your Coast Warrior Blue Mountain trip through Ratpack Travel , a discounted booking platform owned by my friend Sammy, using the code MOLLIE10 , you can get 10% off this epic excursion! WMGT did this one and it was amazing!

Click here to send RatPack a WhatsApp message ( +61 490 149 348 ) and start planning your trip today.

Other days out in and around Sydney…

Taronga Zoo

The Zoo with a view! Head down to Circular Quay and hop on a 12 minute ferry to Taronga where you can view over 4,000 animals including Kangaroos & Koalas! Tickets start at $42.30 for an adult day pass, and can be purchased on the website here .

Hunter Valley

Vineyards, chocolate, a brewery, cheese, and wildlife, all in one day! Check out my post about visiting the Hunter Valley here.

A roadtrip from Sydney to Newcastle... Stockton Sand Dunes and Mount Tomaree | Where's Mollie? A travel and adventure lifestyle blog

(although I’d save this for Day 4…!) Hop on a ferry from Circular Quay to this gorgeous beach-side superb in the northern region of Sydney. See my complete guide to Manly here.

6 walks to go on in and around Sydney, Australia

Wanting to add some adventure to your Australian adventure? Here’s my guide to skydiving in Australia!

Road trip (my favourite kind of trip!)

There are so many places you could go. For Sydney road trip inspiration, check out these blog posts:

A day trip to Hyams Beach

A road trip to the Stockton sand dunes

Visiting the kangaroos in Morisset

Check out the best 20 day trips from Sydney in this post.

Either head back to Sydney after dinner, or if you fancy dinner or nightlife in Sydney, why not try dinner in Darling Harbour… such a beautiful dinner location on the waterfront.

P.s. One of my favourite places to eat in Sydney is HOME , a Thai restaurant near Chinatown. Super reasonably priced and v.v. yummy!

Day 3 of your Sydney itinerary

A day to kick back and relax!

If you’re feeling particularly energetic and don’t want to waste a second oversleeping whilst in Sydney, use this morning to capture the morning light.

Sunrise is a great time to grab those classic Sydney pictures in gorgeous light with no photobombers… You can’t leave without those million-dollar selfies with the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and if you have time, Angel Place (a cute street filled with bird cages, which is a 10-minute walk from Circular Quay).

Check out how to improve your travel photography in this blog post!

I put today down as beach day, starting at Coogee Beach and then following the walk round to Bondi. (Because it wouldn’t be a complete trip to Sydney without a trip to Bondi, right?!). Make sure to stop off on your way round to jump in the ocean and take some beautiful pictures in the bays!

Check out the route from Coogee to Bondi in this blog post.

Once you make it around the final corner past the famous Bondi Icebergs, spend the afternoon cruising in Bondi. Play volleyball, dip in the ocean and if you’re a Poké fan… Be sure to grab a bowl at Nudefish Poké (so good).

If you fancy doing a different walk, check out my post about walks around Sydney here.

How to spend 3 days in Sydney, Australia

If you’re backpacking Australia solo and feeling a little apprehensive, here’s my guide to solo travel in Australia!

Day 4 of your Sydney itinerary

Your last day! If you didn’t catch sunrise before, perhaps head out and catch it today.

Take the morning to explore the city a little more, visiting the places you haven’t had time to see yet and grabbing coffee or brunch. See my favourite Sydney brunch spots here.

the botanical gardens
China Town (100% grab some famous custard puffs from Emperors puffs )
shopping in CBD
Wander around Darling Harbour

For the afternoon, I’d recommend you take the ferry from Circular Quay over to Manly for the day ($9.20 AUD single trip)!

(Or, if you went on day 2, then head out on another day trip of your choice!).

On a backpacker budget? Here are my top tips for saving money when you’re travelling in Australia!

SEE ALL MY BACKPACKING ADVENTURES ON MY BLOG HERE

Manly is my favourite place in Sydney by far, it has the laid back beach life of Byron Bay but has access to the city in 20 minutes via the fast ferry. Definitely somewhere I could live.

Be sure to head over to Shelley beach for a beach day and an awesome spot for snorkelling and hang around for sunset cocktails on the wharf. The PERFECT end to your trip.

See my full guide to Manly here where you’ll find all my recommendations.

And before you know it… that’s four days in Sydney!

For more Sydney inspiration, check out the 25 best things to do in Sydney here!

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Have you been to Sydney?

What were your highlights? I’d love to know!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

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A full 4 day road trip itinerary across South Australia, top things to do and places to visit

Updated: Jun 17, 2020

South Australia is easy to travel and a one of a kind Aussie experience!

It’s natural to associate South Australia with food and wine, but there is so much more to this picturesque region! It’s coastline is full of beautiful golden bays and turquoise waters, the sunsets are sensational, the landscapes of rolling hills are spectacular, and for a place that produces some of the world's best wine, we enjoyed wine tasting without the crowds.

With our Europcar rental allowing us to explore, we set off on a 4-day road trip across some of South Australia’s best regions! Bursting at the seams with activities, unique tastings and experiences, it's one hell of an epic, authentic Aussie-road trip!

Check out the below for the perfect 4 day adventure!

Day 1: Adelaide, McLaren Vale

After collecting our car at Adelaide airport, we headed for one of the inner-city beaches.

Henley beach is just a 10-minute drive from the airport.

With a few locals enjoying their weekend hangout, we took our cappuccinos and went for a walk down the promenade.

Head South along the coast towards McLaren Vale . Only 45 minutes from Adelaide, we found vineyards, so many vineyards…McLaren Vale's most famous road McMurtrie Mile sees many restaurants, wineries and breweries all along the one road. The choice of wineries and breweries in this region is overwhelming with over 100 choices!

Stopping at D’Arenberg and the iconic cube still tops many itineraries, with the option to also explore the art museum on site, we discovered the cellar door for some wine tasting and picked out our favourite meats and cheese from the ‘make your own platter’.

South Australia’s magnificent coastline is only a short drive away, Port Noarlunga and Port Willunga are two beautiful spots worth a visit.

At low tide, heritage-listed reefs become visible at Port Noarlunga, a perfect activity for scuba enthusiasts, whilst walkers can take a walk down the estuary.

The jetty pylons still remain close to shore at Port Willunga, a reminder of the early days as a grain port. The caves that remain were used to shelter fishermen boats, now a great spot to watch the sunset over ocean!

Ending the day at the beautiful Mount Lofty House in the Adelaide Hills.

With views over the Piccadilly Valley from our balcony, lavish décor, and a fantastic restaurant serving delicious brekky, their undeniable 5 star service was a dream. It’s a shame we didn’t have chance to check out the spa facilities, but just another excuse to return!

Take a break before day 2 to watch our highlight video of South Australia:

Day 2: Adelaide hills

Nestled among rolling fields, the drive is spectacular! Tree-lined roads and vineyards are for miles around.

Hahndorf is a small town and is the oldest surviving German village in Australia. Antique shops German pubs, butchers and bakeries, and other artisan stores line this quaint road, with restaurants serving traditional German foods and beer.

Beerenberg farm is also close by, spending an hour here was fun as we filled our punnets with the juiciest strawberrys for the road.

Interesting fact:The Paech family who established Beerenberg were among Hahndorf's first settlers and farmers!

The Lane vineyard is not far from Hahndorf, the tasting rooms sit high over the vineyard overlooking the Adelaide Hills, the perfect backdrop to enjoy the afternoon.

Day 3: Barossa Valley

Barossa Valley is possibly one of the most well-known regions in Australia for it’s wine. The Barossa offers handmade wines from some of the world's oldest vines.

We visited Seppeltsfield estate which covers over 420 acres of vineyard and heritage-listed architecture, and offers tasting and picnic experiences on their grounds. A must visit as one of Australia's oldest wineries, well known for its signature 100-year old tawny!

Seppeltsfield road can be distinctively recognized by the perfectly-placed palm trees that line either side for a number of kilometres. Rolling vineyards run parallel and make for a spectacular drive!

We stayed at the Novotel Barossa Valley , just a stones throw away from the Jacobs Creek vineyard. The grounds are spacious with vineyard views from many of the balcony's.

A 5-minute stroll from our hotel room and we were already at the tasting house sampling the Jacobs Creek from its premium menu. There are fun bean bags and swings made from barrels to hang out at and soak up the views. Next time we will join the cooking class that we saw happening in the outdoor kitchen.

Day 4: Clare Valley

Clare Valley is a 1.5 hour beautiful drive from Barossa Valley.

Lake Bumbunga is a 30 minute detour from the centre, and is one of the most accessible pink lakes in all of Australia.

The halobacteria is what causes the pink appearance, the water had pretty much dried up which had left the salt crystals that cracked as we walked. A surreal experience that left us in awe of mother nature!

Unlike the bigger regions, Clare Valley is on a more boutique scale. This region is well known for its Riesling variety, with both national and international award winning wines and over 40 cellar doors, we stopped in at a few, with our favourites including Skilogalee and Eldredge . Both wineries are boutique family-owned and have been running for many years.

Even some of the wines are names after family members, including the pet dog!

The Reisling Trail is an option for the afternoon, along the way stopping at cellar doors and lunch at O'Leary Walker wines.

It was time to drive back to the airport (2 hours) and wave goodbye to our rental until next time!

Best time to visit South Australia

January is the hottest month in South Australia with July being the coldest.

The warmest months run between November - March.

Visiting in March was perfect, little rain and lots of sunshine.

Driving in South Australia

The best way to see this region is by car! This area is made for classic Aussie road trip and having a car gives the freedom to stop when, and where you wish. There are many petrol stations around, with most having a toilet and a small supermarket.

Disclosure: We were guests of Europcar, South Australia and Accor Hotels. All opinions in this blog are our own.

For further information visit:

www.europcar.com.au

www.southaustralia.com.au

www.accorhotels.com

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4 days to connect with Sydney, Australia

Nov 15, 2022 • 11 min read

Friends hug in front of the Sydney Opera House © Isabella Moore/Lonely Planet

International visitors have missed Australia during the pandemic, and with travel returning down under, it’s also an opportunity to connect with the city in new ways.

From hosting one of the largest Pride celebrations in the world to its new Indigenous tours over the bridge, return to Sydney and see it from a new perspective.

We asked Sarah Reid to map out a way to reconnect with Sydney over four days.

I called Sydney home for nearly a decade, and I still get a buzz every time the harbor comes into view through the plane window on my regular visits from upstate New South Wales . From its famous beaches to its fabulously diverse food scene, Sydney never fails to dazzle .

Why you should visit Sydney

Few cities bring the wow factor quite like Sydney . But it’s not just the Harbor City’s golden beaches and architectural icons that make it special. One of the world’s most multicultural places, Sydney’s rich diversity shines in its vibrant arts and ever-evolving culinary scenes. Sydney is also a famously inclusive metropolis, geared for good times, all year round.

Meet the icons

Lace up your walking shoes and make your way to Circular Quay to savor your first glimpse of Sydney’s glittering harbor. Snap an obligatory selfie with the Sydney Harbour Bridge as a backdrop before taking a tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House ($28, 1 hour), which reopened its concert hall in 2022 following a major renovation designed to address long-standing acoustic and accessibility issues. Now with an elevator to whisk less-mobile visitors up to the dress circle, the reimagined concert hall also had its brush-box-timber wall panels replaced with acoustic diffusion panels constructed from the same Australian hardwood, creating a harmonious ripple effect throughout the venue. Expect a packed calendar of events to celebrate its 50th birthday in 2023.

Follow the waterfront pathway through the Royal Botanic Garden to Mrs Macquarie’s Point , where you can take a breather on a sandstone bench carved by convicts (Mrs Macquarie’s Chair) and enjoy one of Sydney’s best harbor views. Next, wander through the lush gardens toward the Art Gallery of NSW , home to a superb collection of Australian and international art. It adjoins the Sydney Modern – due to open in December 2022, the new gallery space is Sydney’s most significant cultural development in half a century. Like the Art Gallery of NSW, its general collection will be free to visit.

Bondi-bound

Grab your swimwear, slip on a chic cover-up, and jump on a bus, train or taxi to another Sydney icon: Bondi Beach . Before you hit the waves, treat yourself to a smart regional Italian lunch with stellar beach views (and maybe some celebrity-spotting) at Icebergs Dining Room , a Sydney institution perched above Bondi’s famed ocean baths. Lola’s Level 1 and Sean’s also dish up sublime Mediterranean fare with sea views just steps from the sand.

Spend an afternoon lazing on Sydney’s most popular beach, or stretch your legs alongside buffed locals on the 1.4-mile (2.3km) Bondi to Bronte coastal walk, which traces the dramatic sandstone sea cliffs linking the two beaches. If you’re feeling energetic, continue south along the coastal pathway for another 2 miles (3.2km) to Coogee Beach , where the Coogee Bay Hotel offers the perfect place to pause for a restorative passion-fruit spritz in the afternoon sunshine.

Out on the town for dinner

If you’re bedding down in the City (Sydney’s central business district), kick off your evening with the best mezcal margarita in Sydney at hole-in-the-wall Cantina OK! (Latin American flavors have become increasingly popular in Sydney during the past decade) before moving onto dinner. Once slim on quality dining options beyond the classic fine-diners of Circular Quay (including the still-excellent Aria, Bennelong and Quay), the City is now home to some of Sydney’s best eats. For something new, head to 25 Martin Place (the revived former MLC Centre) for a handful of options including Middle Eastern–inspired Aalia, where the melt-in-your-mouth slow-roast lamb neck shawarma is a must-order. Or take your pick from the tantalizing offerings of Barangaroo , a former industrial port transformed into a buzzing multi-use precinct. We love Rekōdo, TV chef Matt Moran’s riff on a Japanese listening bar featuring modern Japanese shared plates.

Sleep in the heart of the city in minimalist-chic style without breaking the bank at the Little National, which rises above Wynyard Station, or opt for art-deco glam at the recently opened Kimpton Margot Sydney, set within a magnificent heritage building, the former Sydney Water Board headquarters. Also new on the hotel scene is the W Sydney. Shaped like a giant glass ribbon, the Darling Harbour hotel, located within easy walking distance from the city center, is due to welcome its first guests in October 2023.

Connect with Sydney’s cultural fabric

Grab a flat white to go from one of Sydney’s countless coffee bars (they’re all good – trust us) and see the city in a new light while scaling the Sydney Harbour Bridge with an Indigenous storyteller guide on BridgeClimb Sydney’s Burrawa Climb. As you ascend the 1332 steps to the summit of what locals call the “coathanger,” your guide will share fascinating insights into Sydney’s rich Aboriginal heritage. If you don’t have a head for heights, join Dreamtime Southern X for a walkabout around The Rocks. On this lively tour, your guide will enlighten you on how Sydney’s Traditional Custodians remain deeply connected to the landscape today, through stories, songs and even native bush tucker and medicinal plants that you might be surprised to find growing in Australia’s largest city.

Get another taste of multicultural Sydney by diving into its food scene . Channel Sydneysiders’ deep love for Asian flavors by tucking into pillows of joy at Mr Wong on Bridge Ln, which only serves dim sum at lunchtime. If you’re visiting on the last Sunday of the month, book ahead to feast on Sri Lankan crab curry at Lankan Filling Station in inner-east Darlinghurst . Or pop over to the South Eveleigh precinct (a short walk from Redfern Station) at 11am to beat the queue for a table at the newest restaurant from Australian chef Kylie Kwong, Lucky Kwong, where light and fresh homestyle dishes reflecting the chef’s Cantonese heritage feed the soul as well as the belly.

Wander over to the recently renovated Australian Museum , opposite Hyde Park , to learn more about the Aboriginal story of Sydney and beyond via its superb First Nations exhibitions, designed in collaboration with First Nations peoples and communities to ensure the objects held in the collection are interpreted appropriately. Free to visit, the museum also has an excellent natural sciences collection featuring everything from Australian dinosaur skeletons to specimens of the nation’s deadliest spiders.

A Priscilla -style party, or a quiet glass of wine

Shimmy into something sparkly for an oh-so-Sydney night out at the Imperial in inner-west Erskineville, just a short walk from the train station. Immortalized in the legendary 1994 film The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert , the historic pub hosts the city’s best Drag N Dine experience at its restaurant Priscillas, with drag artists bringing buckets of sass to the stage from Wednesdays to Sundays. On Friday and Saturday nights, anything goes (and usually does) at the Imperial’s underground Basement nightclub.

Back in the city, the 2021 relaxation of Sydney’s lockout laws (which saw inner-city nightspots refuse entry after 1:30am in an effort to curb alcohol-related disorder) has breathed new life into the Oxford St LGBTQI+ precinct. Party on at the likes of the Colombian Hotel, Ching-a-Lings, or the Burdekin. Not your scene? Take a seat at the handful of tucked-away, European-style wine bars in Sydney’s Inner East (try Dear Sainte Eloise in Potts Point). Or catch a performance by renowned Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance company Bangarra , or a show at one of Sydney’s many theaters (you can’t go wrong at the renowned Sydney Theatre Company ).

Spend a day on the Northern Beaches

Sydney’s best sandy bits aren’t limited to the south side of the bridge. Jump on a ferry at Circular Quay for the achingly scenic 20-minute ride to Manly , one of the most famous stretches of sand on the Northern Beaches . Hit the waves at Manly Beach or follow the short oceanfront path around to Shelly Beach , a picture-perfect sheltered cove popular with families – and snorkelers.

Factor in a seafood lunch by the sea (try Manly Boathouse ), perhaps followed by a hike (45 minutes, or else catch the 161 bus) up to North Head, a great vantage point for watching humpback whales put on a show during their annual migration from May to November. If you’re not pressed for time, jump on the 199 bus for the one-hour ride along the coast to The Newport. Overlooking the gorgeous Pittwater tidal estuary, this sprawling venue packs out with locals on weekend afternoons, with multiple bars and dining options giving it a casual marketplace feel. If you’ve got your own wheels, take a spin to Palm Beach at the northern tip of the peninsula for a refreshing dip just steps from some of Sydney’s priciest real estate. The short but steep climb up the sandstone steps to the historic Barrenjoey Lighthouse at the northern end of the beach is worth it for the sweeping coastal views.

Sundowners in Manly

The last ferry back to the city doesn’t leave until after midnight, allowing plenty of time for dinner and drinks in laid-back Manly. Start with sundowners at Wharf Bar , perched over the water just a short stumble from the ferry terminal. Or wander up Manly Corso to Manly Greenhouse, where a smart-casual restaurant with a Mediterranean-inspired menu, cozy wine room and rooftop cocktail bar filled with lush plants are spread across three levels opposite the beach. Also on the beachfront is the historic Hotel Steyne (circa 1859), reimagined for 21st-century fun with a stylish whiskey bar and breezy rooftop terrace.

Day 4: Get out of town, or seek out more Sydney gems

Sydney lies within day-tripping distance of two blockbuster New South Wales attractions: the Blue Mountains and the Hunter Valley , both easy add-ons to a Sydney visit. If you’d rather stay local, fuel up with a classic Sydney brunch before uncovering more of the city’s highlights.

Blue Mountains

Just 90 minutes west of Sydney by car (or two hours by train), the eucalyptus-scented Blue Mountains are laced with some of Australia’s best bushwalking (hiking) trails; check the NSW National Parks website for the most-up-to-date trail information. Get your bearings in Katoomba , where the Echo Point lookout offers epic views toward the World Heritage Area’s famed Three Sisters rock formation. Historic Katoomba is also home to the bulk of the region’s restaurants and accommodations, should you want to extend your visit. And don’t forget to bring a sweater: at 3337ft (1017m) above sea level, it can get cool in the mountains, even in summer,

Hunter Valley

Australia’s oldest wine region, the gentle rolling hills of the Hunter Valley lie just two hours north of Sydney. Sign up for a day tour, which typically includes four cellar-door visits and a winery lunch, or hire a car and take your pick of the region’s 150+ cellar doors.

Chardonnay is the star of the Hunter Valley, with other key varietals produced here including semillon, verdelho, shiraz, cabernet sauvignon and merlot. Some of the state’s best restaurants are also nestled in the area’s vineyards – book ahead for a meal to remember at the lauded Muse Restaurant (set in the grounds of the Hungerford Hill winery), where French techniques are married with superb local produce.

Best bets for brunch

Melbourne-born chef Bill Granger put brunch – and avocado on toast – on the map at his first bills restaurant, opened in Sydney in 1993. You can now tuck into his famous ricotta hotcakes and silky scrambled eggs at four bills locations across the city.

A coffee roastery, bakery, cafe and restaurant wrapped up in one delicious package, the Grounds of Alexandria in Sydney’s Inner West is another brunch favorite for locals. Its sister cafe, the Grounds of the City , is located in the city center.

Explore an artistic legacy

Art lovers shouldn’t miss a visit to the former studio of the late Australian artist Brett Whiteley in Surry Hills (look for the signs on Devonshire and Bourke Sts), where many of his multi-million-dollar works were created. Then take a train to North Sydney to enjoy one of Sydney’s most delightful green spaces, Wendy’s Secret Garden . Created by Whiteley’s widow following Brett’s 1992 death, the serene green space sits at the foot of the couple’s Lavender Bay house, where Wendy still lives today.

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A Sydney 4-day itinerary for first time visitors

July 25, 2023
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View of Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia from Mrs Macquarie

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What to do in Sydney - A 4 day itinerary for first-time visitors

Located on Australia’s popular East Coast, Sydney is one of the most visited cities in Australia and it’s not hard to see why. From its famous landmarks like the iconic Opera house and Sydney Harbour bridge to the gorgeous sandy beaches of Bondi and Manly, Sydney attracts tourists from all over the world.

With so much to see and do in Sydney it can be overwhelming, especially if you are visiting for the first time and only have a few days. So if you’re asking yourself questions like, ‘How long do I need in Sydney?’, ‘What is there to do in Sydney’ and ‘Where are the best places to visit in and around Sydney?’ , don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. In this short handy guide, I’ll share the best things to see and do in Sydney (even if you only have a few days!), neatly packaged into a handy 4 day itinerary that you can follow.

Looking for another great Australian city to visit? Check out all the best things to see and do in Melbourne, Victoria

How many days do you need in sydney, australia.

There are so many great things to see and do in Sydney, it is a big city and there’s something for everyone. However, I would say that 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in Sydney as a first-timer. This will allow you to see the “highlights” without feeling like you are zooming around in a rush. Of course, if you are tight on time you could spend just 2 days here by just staying in Sydney’s CBD (Central Business District), and taking the Hop on, Hop off bus to travel around the main sights in the city. Personally, I feel that you would be missing out on some of the great things Sydney has to offer with just two days. We stayed for 4 days (5 nights) and felt that it was a good amount of time.

Sydney is also a great place to start your east coast road trip. Make sure that you visit the popular backpacking town of Byron Bay and stop by the Koala hospital in Port Macquarie !

What are the best things to see and do in Sydney, Australia?

In this post I am sharing my full itinerary for how we spent 4 days in Sydney, which will cover all my top things to see and do in Sydney within those 4 days, including how we spent each day in the different areas of Sydney. If you would prefer to see a list with just the top places to visit, so that you can incorporate it into your own itinerary, I have written a separate blog covering 15 great things to see and do in Sydney which will give you a run down of the best places to visit.

How to spend 4 days in Sydney - a full itinerary

Day 1 - wander around darling quarter and darling harbour - two of the best areas to visit in sydney's cbd.

The iconic landmarks of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge have made Circular Quay one of the most visited spots in Sydney, however I much preferred the area around Darling Quarter and the Harbour there. For me, Darling Harbour had a much nicer atmosphere than Circular Quay and it was far less industrial (as it is not the main ferry/cruise port). There are bars and restaurants all around the edge of the harbour, and you’ll also find the Australian National Maritime museum and Sea life aquarium here too.

Just set back from the harbour is Tumbalong Park, which is a great spot to sit on the grass, cool your feet in the water feature and watch the world go by. After spending some time at the park and harbour, make sure you visit Darling Square, in the heart of Darling Quarter. There are some great shops in this area and it has a really nice vibe to it.

We spent the afternoon just wandering around Darling Quarter and Darling Harbour and enjoying the sun in the park with an ice cream. In the evening, we headed to the Harbourside shopping complex, which has a decent sized foot court, perfect for grabbing something to eat if you’re on a budget! After picking up some food, we took it outside to sit on the water’s edge overlooking the harbour. Who needs fancy restaurants anyway?!

You could easily spend a full, leisurely day around Darling Quarter and Darling Harbour, visiting all the shops and enjoying a long lunch, but if you prefer things at a faster pace, or you’re short on time, then it’s a great place to spend the morning or late afternoon and you could easily combine sightseeing here with a visit to Circular Quay. Whatever you choose, just make sure to visit! In my opinion Darling Quarter and Darling Harbour are two of the best places to visit in Sydney.

Views of skyscrapers across Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia

Day 2 - Visiting Sydney’s most iconic landmarks - the Opera House and Harbour Bridge

By now, you’re probably itching to visit Sydney’s most famous sights – the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House! Located in Circular Quay, these iconic landmarks are what Sydney is most famous for, so make sure to soak up the atmosphere and spend the day exploring this area of the city.

When I visit a new place, I love devising my own walking tour. Personally I feel that strolling around on foot is the best way to see all the sights, it also just happens to be one of the best things to do in Sydney (or any city) for free! The walking tour I created took us to some of Sydney’s most popular must-see spots including the Sydney Botanical Gardens, Circular Quay – stopping at the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, then onto Barangaroo Reserve, the Sydney Observatory and finally to the area of The Rocks. Here’s the full details of the route we took:

Sydney DIY walking tour

Arriving at Circular Quay, we walked past the Opera House and headed straight to the botanical gardens , enjoying a picnic on the beautiful lawns, with a view across the harbour. We then continued walking around the gardens, to the other side until we reached Mrs Macquarie’s chair – a viewing point which offers fabulous views across the bay of both the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. This is one of the best places to snap a photo of the Sydney Opera House.

Leaving Mrs Macquarie’s Chair viewpoint, we re-traced our steps back through the botanical gardens to the Opera House. After wandering around the outside of the Opera House and taking some photos, we followed the harbour round to the other side, to Hickson Road reserve – a small green area just underneath the Harbour Bridge. The Opera House and Harbour Bridge are the most popular sights in Sydney, so, as you can imagine, it does get busy around this area but these are both absolute must-see spots when you are in Sydney!

This is a great opportunity to try one of the many activities around Sydney Harbour. Take on the Sydney Harbour bridge climb, kayak under the bridge or opt for something much more relaxed with a cruise.

Standing under the Sydney Harbour Bridge at Hickson Road Reserve in Sydney, Australia

Continuing the DIY walking tour from Hickson Road Reserve, follow the road underneath the bridge and walk along Walsh Bay Promenade to Barangaroo Reserve. This is a really lovely walk along the water’s edge and there’s several cafes along the way if you fancy a drink or get peckish.

From Barangaroo Reserve, follow Argyle Street and walk up to the Sydney Observatory for great views of the Harbour Bridge and across the water towards Luna park (an old fashioned theme park) in North Sydney. The Observatory Hill Park has one of the best viewpoints over Sydney Harbour and is especially beautiful at sunset.

To finish the day, head back down towards Circular Quay to explore the fashionable area of The Rocks . The Rocks is one of the best areas to explore in Sydney, especially if you’ve only got a couple of days in the city. This area is full of small lanes with cafes, restaurants, independent shops and boutiques. At the weekend, there is also a craft market here.

Sydney Harbour at night

In the evening, the Opera House and Harbour bridge are illuminated and look really beautiful, especially as the lights reflect off the water. When we visited, there was a light art installation at the Opera House, where patterns where projected onto the Opera House sails. So we watched this for a bit, before having a drink in the bar in front of the Opera House, looking across to the Harbour Bridge.

This was a pretty full-on day, with lots of walking, but we got to see A LOT! If you don’t want to walk as far as we did, then I would say skip the section between the Harbour Bridge and Barangaroo reserve and just head straight to The Rocks instead.

Sydney Opera House looking beautiful all illuminated from the ferry at night

Day 3 - A day trip to Manly - one of Sydney’s most popular suburbs and surfing spots

On your third day in Sydney, head out of the city and take the public ferry from Circular Quay across to Manly, a beach-side suburb in North Sydney. There are two ferry’s that take you across to Manly, a 30 minute ferry and a slightly more expensive but 10 minute shorter ‘fast ferry’.

The ferry trip itself is one of the best activities you can do in Sydney because you’ll get gorgeous harbour views from the boat and some amazing photo opportunities!

Australia’s East Coast has many great surfing spots, including the nearby town of Newcastle . But Manly is one of Sydney’s best surf spots. It is famous for holding the world’s first surfing competition, back in 1964. Annual surf competitions are still held in Manly and surfers flock to this beach every year, making the now iconic Manly beach one of Australia’s most famous beaches.

One of the best things to do in Manly – apart from visiting the beach – is to walk the scenic coastal path from Manly wharf to North head.

This is a lovely coastal walk, which passes several small beaches along the way, including Collins beach with its secluded cove and waterfall. From North Head, the path takes you back towards Manly beach through Patrick’s estate – a prestigious international business college houses in an English castle-like building.

Back in the centre of Manly – take your time to stroll round the surf shops and enjoy lunch in one of the many cafes. There’s a really nice laid-back atmosphere to Manly, and in my opinion, it is one of the best places to visit in Sydney.

A secluded beach, found along the Manly Coastal Path in Sydney, Australia

Day 4 - Visiting Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach

You can’t visit Sydney without spending the day at its most iconic beach – Bondi beach! Bondi beach is one of Australia’s most famous beaches thanks to its pristine white sand, plentiful restaurants, bars and proximity to Sydney’s CBD (which is just a short bus ride away).

One of the best things to do at Bondi beach (and in Sydney!), is the Bondi-Coogee coastal walk. The 6km walk follows the coastline from Bondi to Coogee and usually takes around 2-3 hours, but it depends how often you stop at the various swimming spots and suburbs along the way!

The coastal walk is beautiful and it is definitely up there as one of the best things to do in Sydney, rivalling the Port Macquarie coastal path.

After your walk, spend the afternoon lazing on Bondi beach, or take a dip in one of Australia’s oldest swimming pools – the iconic Bondi Iceberg, located at the southern end of the beach.

This wraps up my 4 day itinerary of Sydney – As first-timers to Sydney, we wanted to cover the main spots in and around the city without feeling rushed and I think 4 days was perfect for that. Of course, you could easily spend more time here by taking it even slower than we did, or by visiting even more of the attractions in and around Sydney.

If you want to get out in nature and do some hiking, then the Blue Mountains are only a 2 hour train ride from the city and are one of the most popular day trips from Sydney. Personally, I would recommend having several days to explore the area. The Blue Mountains are so beautiful and we really enjoyed the few days we spent there hiking. However, if you’re short on time, or want the convenience of someone else to plan your trip, there are lots of tours to the Blue Mountains from Sydney to choose from.

What is a good area to stay in Sydney, Australia?

I’ve been to Sydney twice. The first time, we stayed in the Great Southern hotel , which was just a few minutes walk from the central bus and train station, at the end of George Street. George Street is the main street running through this part of the city, linking the central station to Circular Quay, where the Opera House and Harbour bridge are located. There is a tram which runs frequently running the full length of George Street which is really handy!

The second time we visited Sydney, we stayed at the Darlo Bar in Darlinghurst . This was another great budget option, in a central location.

Sydney is a big city, but basing ourselves in these areas, we found it really easy to get to all the main sights and also hop easily on a bus, tram and boat to go further afield. I would say the closer to the centre, the better, especially if you only have a couple of days here as you don’t want to spend long travelling in and out each day.

Is Sydney expensive?

As with any destination, there are luxury options and budget options. We were visiting Sydney as part of our Australian East Coast road trip and were backpacking, though I would say we had a moderate budget for a backpacking trip – setting ourselves a limit of £70 per person (including accommodation and transport). With that we were able to stay in a 3 star hotel and had enough left to cover food and drink and anything else we wanted to do.

When researching accommodation, I found that many of the hostels were actually more expensive than hotels for a private room, so my advice would be if there’s two or three of you travelling and you want a private room, definitely check out hotel prices before booking a hostel under the assumption that it would be the cheapest option.

Most of the activities we did in Sydney were essentially free – there’s so many places you can walk in Sydney and see something different that you don’t actually need a big budget. We also saved money on food and drink by having picnics or getting takeaways and eating them alongside the harbour or in one of the parks on a couple of evenings or for lunch. The main thing we paid extra for was the tram, the ferry to Manly and the bus to Bondi beach, but again, these were all relatively low cost items.

For tips for travelling on a budget and to download my free budget template, check out my post on how to budget for full time travel, here.

A guide for visiting the Blue Mountains, New South Wales, Australia

The Grampians and The Great Ocean Road – a 4 day self drive itinerary

How to spend 4 days in Melbourne – what to see and do

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4 Days in Melbourne: The Ultimate Melbourne Itinerary

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria. It is also a major business and culture centre in Australia. As one of the most liveable cities in the world, Melbourne offers one of the best food, culture, art, and scenic experiences in Australia.

Melbourne offers a great selection of attractions to visit. If you are only visiting Melbourne CBD, it may take as little as only 1-day to visit its essential CBD attractions. However, for the best Melbourne experience, you will need at least 4-day to explore its CBD and surrounding suburbs.

In this article, I have put together a detailed 4-day itinerary for visiting Melbourne for the first time. Information on how to get around Melbourne & the best place to stay in Melbourne is also provided for your convenience.

How to Get Around Melbourne

Melbourne has a great public transport system, with trains, trams, and buses. This expansive public transport system can take you to most of Melbourne’s attractions in a decent time frame. If you are only exploring Melbourne CBD, you can also take advantage of Melbourne CBD’s free tram zone , which is very convenient and can save you lots of unnecessary walks.

You can also drive around Melbourne in a private vehicle. However, from my experience, it can be difficult to drive around Melbourne when you are not familiar with the roads. This is especially true during peak hours.

In addition, there are toll roads around Melbourne. The costs of these toll roads can add up quickly, and I have once scored myself over AUD 30 toll in one day (accidentally) during a visit to Melbourne.

Parkings are also very costly in Melbourne. Finding a free carpark around Melbourne CBD and popular Melbourne attractions can be near impossible.

Therefore, public transport services are the most convenient and cost-effective way to get around Melbourne, especially in Melbourne CBD and the inner suburbs. If you do not wish to use public transport, ride-share services, such as Uber and Didi, may be a better option.

Where to Stay in Melbourne

There is a huge selection of accommodations in Melbourne, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious 5-star hotels.

Day 1: Melbourne CBD

For the first day of this 4-Day Melbourne visit, we are going to explore Melbourne CBD, get acquainted with many famous Melbourne landmarks, taste the amazing food Melbourne has to offer, and experience Melbourne’s laneway culture.

Here is a list of must-visit attractions in Melbourne CBD. Depending on where you are staying in Melbourne, you may wish to visit these attractions in a different order.

You can take a tram to commute between these attractions, but I suggest walking between these attractions where possible to better experience this vibrant city. Regardless of your mode of transport, there will be a lot of walks involved, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes .

Flinders Street Station

Flinders Street Station (aka Flinders Station) is located at the corner of Flinders Street and Swanston Street. It is the oldest and the busiest train station in Victoria . In addition to being a busy transporting hub, Flinders Street Station is also an important Melbourne landmark, owing to its distinctive appearance.

Flinders Station was rebuilt in 1905 into its current shape. This yellow and maroon-coloured building complex stretches over 2 blocks along the Yarra River. It also stands out among nearby buildings with its green-coloured domes, pointy clock tower, and perfectly aligned departure clocks above its front gate.

St Paul’s Cathedral (Melbourne)

Diagonally across the intersection from Flinders Station, you can then find the glorious St Paul’s Cathedral.

St Paul’s Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral, built in 1891. Sitting on the eastern corner of Flinders Street and Swanston Street intersection & in the city end of Princes Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral captures the attention of many passersby with its grand Gothic Revival design.

Make sure you also check out the impressive interior of St Paul’s Cathedral. The interior of St Paul’s Cathedral is simply awe-inspiring, with its contrasted bluestone stripes.

During my recent visit to St Paul’s Cathedral, Luke Jerram’s Gaia was also on display within the cathedral, which made this place look even more majestic. Gaia is a 7-metre wide, internally lit sphere that represents the planet & rotates every 4 minutes.

Flinders Lane

Flinders Lane is located between Flinders Street and Collins Street. With many smaller laneways branching out, Flinders Lane is home to many of Melbourne’s best diners and street arts.

A walk along Flinders Lane, you can find a range of sophisticated restaurants, quirky cafes, and colourful mural arts. If you are looking for somewhere to eat, Degraves Street is usually a good starting point. For art lovers, Hosier Lane and AC/DC lane are great spots for some colourful mural arts.

For the fashionistas, you can also find a good selection of boutique stores and high-end labels along Flinders Lane. With that being said, you may wish to check out the neighbouring Collins Street as well.

Melbourne Central

Speaking about shopping, make sure you also check out Melbourne Central Shopping Centre.

Melbourne Central Shopping Centre is built on top of Melbourne Central Railway Station and can appear just like any other shopping centre if you don’t know what you are looking for. However, make sure you take a walk inside to view the iconic Coop’s Shot Tower

Coop’s Shot Tower was initially built in 1889 as a shot tower to make lead bullets. It is currently serving as a Shot Tower Museum to showcase its history.

To preserve this iconic shot tower during the development of Melbourne Central, a 20-storey high glass dome was built to house Coop’s Shot Tower within the shopping centre. Because of how unique and photogenic Coop’s Shot Tower and its dome look, the view of Coop’s Shot Tower has become one of the most Instagrammed landmarks in Melbourne.

Queen Victoria Market

Queen Victoria Market is the largest open-air market in Australia . First opened in 1878, Queen Victoria Market has largely maintained its original shape over 140 years later & is showcasing a vibrant marketplace from the Victorian era.

In addition to admiring this 19th-century marketplace, you can also find a vast selection of fresh produce and speciality stores in Queen Victoria Market. With a diverse variety of bakeries and diners available, Queen Victoria Market is also the perfect spot to sample some lunch.

State Library of Victoria

Established in 1854, the State Library of Victoria is the oldest public library in Australia . The grand building of the State Library of Victoria houses a vast collection of reading materials and is one of Australia’s busiest libraries.

In addition to admiring this Victorian-style building from the outside, make sure you also check out its glamorous interior, especially the La Trobe Reading Room.

La Trobe Reading Room was first opened in 1913. It is an octagonal reading room & 34.75-metre in diameter and height. This grand reading room is complete with a glass dome, which makes this structure even more impressive. Make sure you check it out!

St Patrick Cathedral

As the largest cathedral in Australia , the grand building complex of St Patrick Cathedral can be seen from a few blocks away, even from the buzzing Melbourne CBD.

Built with distinctive bluestones and surrounded by a stunning garden, St Patrick Cathedral is worth a visit on any given day. Although access to its interior is not always available, you can still get a good view of its glorious interior from its front door.

Parliament House and the Old Treasury Building are also nearby & you may wish to pay a visit to these landmarks as well.

Fitzroy Gardens

Fitzroy Gardens is a peaceful public garden along the eastern fringe of Melbourne CBD. This 64-acre of classic Victorian-era garden is a great place for a relaxing stroll and some fresh air near Melbourne CBD.

Within Fitzroy Gardens, you can find lush tree-lined avenues, beautiful fountains and sculptures, a flower-filled conservatory , a magical fairy tree , a picturesque Model Tudor Village , and the famous Cooks Cottage . It is a beautiful attraction for all ages to enjoy.

Day 2: Southbank

After exploring Melbourne CBD on day 1, we are going across the Princes Bridge to explore the other side of Yarra River, Southbank.

Princes Bridge

Princes Bridge is a historic bridge built in 1888. It spans across the peaceful Yarra River & connects the busy Swanston Street from central Melbourne and St Kilda Road on Southbank.

From Princes Bridge, you can obtain one of the best views of Melbourne CBD, Southbank, and the Yarra River . This view is even more spectacular at nighttime when the skyline is lit up with various city lights.

Yarra River

Melbourne was built on the fertile agricultural land along the Yarra River in the 1800s. Although Yarra River is no longer the lifeline of Melbourne, it still serves a significant role in the everyday lives of Melbournians.

Make sure you take a walk along the peaceful Yarra River to experience the vibrant atmosphere along the river bank. Better still, why not check out one of the riverfront diners for a brunch or dinner along the beautiful Yarra River, as true Melbournians will.

The area along Yarra River is also one of the major hubs for vibrant nightlife in Melbourne, which you may also wish to partake in at some point during your visit to Melbourne.

Crown Melbourne

Crown Melbourne is the largest casino in Australia and the southern hemisphere . Spans over two blocks along Yarra River in Southbank, Crown Melbourne is also the largest and most noticeable building complex in Southbank.

Although famous for its gaming areas, Crown Melbourne is also a hub for restaurants, entertainment, luxury shopping, and luxury resorts. Make sure you pop into this grand building complex and have a wander if time allows.

Eureka Tower

At Melbourne Skydeck , you can also step into the Edge , a transparent glass cube that extends out of Eureka Tower at almost 300-metre above the ground, to explore the views of Melbourne from midair. It can be an exhilarating experience, which you may wish to check out as well.

Cost: As of July 2022, a general admission ticket to Melbourne Skydeck is AUD 28 per adult; an additional ticket for the Edge is AUD 14 per adult.

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

Founded in 1863, the National Gallery of Victoria (commonly referred to as the NGV) is the oldest and most-visited art gallery in Australia . Its huge collection of Australian and international arts is currently housed at two different sites: the NGV building on St Kilda Road in Southbank (NGV International) and the Ian Potter Centre near Federation Square (NGV Australia).

The NGV building on St Kilda Road houses a vast collection of international arts from Asia, Oceania, Europe, and America. There is also a large collection of contemporary arts within NGV International, which make this place well suited for every taste.

A range of popular temporary exhibitions can also be found across the two different NGV sites, which makes NGV a fabulous place to visit over and over again.

Shrine of Remembrance

The Shrine of Remembrance is a memorial for honouring the service and sacrifice of Australians who served in war and peacekeeping.

Completed in 1934, the Shrine of Remembrance is one of Australia’s largest war memorials . It is also a site for the annual ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services.

This enormous memorial can be accessed from the visitor centre (located on the botanic gardens’ side). Within the Shrine of Remembrance, you can find a 40-metre-long Wall of Medals and a massive display of artefacts from WW1 to the present.

If you follow the gallery to the central crypt, you can also find access to the balcony at the Shrine of Remembrance. From the balcony, you can obtain a spectacular panoramic view of Southbank, Melbourne CBD, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Melbourne Gardens

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria was first founded in 1846 & has been an essential part of Melbourne’s cityscape.

In addition to its original site near Melbourne CBD, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria also established a second site in Cranbourne in 1970. For this 4-day Melbourne trip, we will only be visiting its Melbourne Gardens for convenience.

The Melbourne Gardens is established on 94 acres of gentle slope along the southern bank of Yarra River. Besides the beautiful riverfront view, you can also enjoy some tranquil lake views in Melbourne Gardens. In addition, within Melbourne Gardens, you can also find over 8000 species of plants from all around the world & indulge in a lavish high-tea across the lake.

For people with limited mobility or who do not wish to walk the entire length around this huge garden, an open-air minibus (the Explorer) is available at Melbourne Gardens for a small fee. The Explorer bus is accessible from the visitor centre, which is only a short walk from the front entrance.

Day 3: Explore Melbourne’s Vibrant Suburbs

The beauty of Melbourne resides in not only its buzzing CBD but also its vibrant suburbs. So, on the third day of this Melbourne trip, we are going to explore a few of the most popular suburbs around.

Royal Exhibition Building & Melbourne Museum

Established in 1880, the Royal Exhibition Building is one of the last few remaining exhibition buildings from the International Exhibition movement. Nowadays, in addition to being used as an exhibition centre, the Royal Exhibition Building is also used for a variety of other events throughout the year.

Make sure you take a walk through the beautiful Carlton Gardens to visit the glamorous Royal Exhibition Building via its gate on Victoria Street . From this angle, you will have the best view of the picturesque Carlton Gardens and the palace-like Royal Exhibition Building.

If you happened to be visiting on a day when the Royal Exhibition Building is open to the public, make sure you also check out the inside of this building to admire its stunning dome and artworks.

Just behind the Royal Exhibition Building, you can find the award-winning Melbourne Museum . For the curious minds, you may also wish to check out the vast culture, history, and science exhibits within this modern museum.

After visiting the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum, make sure you take a short walk to visit Melbourne’s oldest suburb , Fitzroy.

Established in 1839, Fitzroy has become Melbourne’s most populated suburb & a vibrant cultural and culinary hub. A walk around Brunswick Street and Johnston Street in Fitzroy will find you several popular pubs and cafes, serving a great variety of foods and beverages.

As Melbourne’s oldest suburb, Fitzroy is also in no short supply of Victorian-era architecture and is home to an extensive collection of terraced buildings.

As a vibrant suburb, Fitzroy is also home to a number of art establishments and live-performance venues. You can also find a range of colourful mural arts around many street corners in Fitzroy.

Collingwood & Keith Haring Mural

Collingwood is another vibrant inner Melbourne suburb located right next to Fitzroy.

Similar to Fitzroy, Collingwood is also filled with beautiful Victorian-era buildings, quirky cafes, and art precincts. For art lovers, make sure you also check out the newly established Collingwood Yards.

Collingwood Yards is located on the buzzing Johnston Street in Collingwood. It was first opened in March 2021 as an art precinct for artists, studios, and art galleries. It is a great spot for artists to get connected and be inspired. There are also a few shops, a cafe, and a rooftop bar on-site to suit everyone’s needs.

On the side of the Collingwood Yards building complex (along Johnston Street), you can find one of the most famous mural arts in Melbourne, the Keith Haring Mural . It was completed by the internationally-renowned Keith Haring in 1984 & one not to be missed if you are interested in mural arts.

Prahran Market

Located in South Yarra, Prahran Market is a historic fresh produce market with a modern twist.

Built in 1881, the exterior of Prahran Market is screaming a Victorian-era charm & looks nothing like a fresh produce market with its arched entrances.

Once stepped inside Prahran Market, you can find not just your regular fresh produce but also a great selection of hard-to-find produce and speciality stores. With many gourmet bakeries and cafes, Prahran Market is certainly a foodie’s paradise .

After checking out Prahran Market, you may wish to also check out another vibrant Melbourne suburb, Prahran.

In addition to the boutique stores and quirky cafes along Chapel Street , make sure you also take a walk around Prahran to check out its Victorian and Edwardian terrace buildings. Famous landmarks you may wish to look out for in Prahran also include Reads Emporium and Prahran City Hall .

Chadstone Shopping Centre

Chadstone Shopping Centre is located in Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs, only 25-minute away by car or 35-minute away by public transport from Melbourne CBD. It is Australia’s largest all-inclusive, suburban shopping complex & known as The Fashion Capital.

Day 4: Beach Day

On the last day of this Melbourne trip, we are going to relax at a few of Melbourne’s well-known beachfront locations.

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is a 30-minute drive or a 25-minute train ride from Melbourne CBD. It is one of Melbourne’s most popular beaches & well-known for its Brighton Bathing Boxes.

Brighton Bathing Boxes are a group of 96 colourful wooden beach huts, well-aligned along Brighton Beach’s foreshore area. They were initially built in the 1800s by local residents as changing rooms when wandering the streets in bathers or changing on the beach was illegal.

Nowadays, ownership of Brighton Bathing Boxes is still in the hands of the local residents, but these colourful beach boxes have become more of a local landmark than a change room. Each year, thousands of visitors come to Brighton Beach not just to bathe on its sandy beach but also to admire the picturesque Brighton Bathing Boxes.

Access to Brighton Beach is free. You are allowed to stroll freely along the beachfront and take photos of Brighton Bathing Boxes. However, ownership of the bathing boxes is for local residents only, and the bathing boxes are not allowed to be rented out either.

Paid car parks are available at Brighton Beach. You can also find free off-street parking in nearby side streets. However, these free off-street parking spots are mostly 1-hour parking only.

Point Ormond Lookout

Point Ormond Lookout is located on top of a small grassy hill near Elwood Beach, between Brighton Beach and St Kilda Beach. There is also a well-maintained walking trail (Bay Trail) cutting through Point Ormond Lookout, along the beautiful Port Phillip Bay.

From Point Ormond Lookout, you can obtain a spectacular view of Melbourne CBD and the stunning Port Philip Bay. It is a great place for a casual stroll and a picnic.

There are plenty of paid carparks near Point Ormond Lookout, but free carparks are few and far between. Hence, you may wish to visit Brighton Beach by public transport, then follow the scenic Bay Trail to visit Point Ormond Lookout and St Kilda Beach. Alternatively, ride-share services are also widely available in this area.

St Kilda Beach

St Kilda Beach is just over 20-minute away from Melbourne CBD by car or tram. It is Melbourne’s most popular beach & a great spot for swimming, water activities, and socialising.

St Kilda Beach is also home to the famous St Kilda Pier , which is a concrete pier & stretches all the way to the iconic St Kilda Pavilion . St Kilda Pier is a popular spot for fishing and leisure walks. Towards the end of St Kilda Pier, you will then find the St Kilda Breakwater.

St Kilda Breakwater is important in providing calm, swimmable water at St Kilda Beach. It is also well-known for being a fairy penguin colony . A designated viewing platform is available near the end of St Kilda Pier for visitors to view those cute fairy penguins return back to their rookeries between the rocks of St Kilda Breakwater after sunset.

Luna Park Melbourne is the oldest amusement park in Australia and has been operating for well over 100 years. Luna Park is famous for its iconic Mr Moon entrance and its exhilarating roller coaster rides. Being conveniently located near St Kilda Beach, it is also a great place to spend a fabulous afternoon for all ages.

Princes Pier

Princes Pier is a historic pier located in Port Melbourne. In my opinion, Princes Pier is one of the most picturesque sunset locations near Melbourne . With only a brief car/tram ride from Melbourne CBD, a visit to Princes Pier is highly recommended.

At Princes Pier, you will find a stunning sight of exposed pylons towards the end of this refurbished pier. These pylons are from the original Princes Pier, constructed between 1912 and 1915. These perfectly aligned pylons stretch deep into the bay & form one of the most Instagrammed sights in Port Melbourne.

Paid car parking spots are available around Princes Pier. You can also find a few free off-street parking spots around.

The Perfect 4-Day Sydney Itinerary for 2024

Are you planning to visit Sydney? Are you wondering how much you can see in 4 days in Sydney? Ideally, 7 days are perfect to see Sydney without rushing it, but, with our 4-day Sydney itinerary, you will be able to see the major highlights of our stunning harbour city. We are so passionate about our home town and we know you will be as well.

In our 4 days 3 nights Sydney itinerary, we will cover the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, a visit to Manly on the Manly Ferry, wandering the historical Rocks area, Darling Harbour, Bondi Beach and Taronga Park Zoo. These are the most popular hot spots that all visitors dream of when travelling to Sydney.

You can use our Sydney Australia itinerary for as little as a day or up to a week depending on how much time you have.

You can now download our article on GPSMyCity. How it works: Download the app “GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities” from the iTunes App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. Each walk comes with a detailed tour map as well as photos and background information for the featured attractions. The app’s navigation functions guide you from one attraction to the next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when travelling abroad.

If you are visiting between the months of May and November why not consider a Sydney Whale Watching Cruise?

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure for more information.

Table of Contents

How To Get From Sydney Airport to Sydney CBD

Sydney Airport is just 8 km from the Sydney CBD. Flights are available to Sydney from all over the country and many regional centres. Sydney is the top destination for international travellers and flights are available to Sydney from all corners of the world.

Public transport is a cheap and efficient way to travel around Sydney, so you won’t need to hire a car.

From either the Sydney Domestic or International Terminal you can catch the Airport Link and be in the city within 13 minutes. You can purchase an Opal Card at the Airport. You can use the Opal Card on trains, buses, light rail and ferries. You will have to put $20 on the card when you first purchase it and $10 for children. On the Airport Link, you can also use Visa, Mastercard or American Express card to tap on and tap off.

Current prices as of July 2022 for the Airport Link are:

Adults Off Peak $18.39

Children Off peak $15.41 (children are from 4 – 16 years of age, children under 4 travel free)

Adults Peak $19.53

Children Peak $15.98

Taxis and Uber are available from the Airport.

Car rental is available from both terminals but if you are staying within the city limits it is not necessary. Parking is expensive in the city.

Travelling Within the Sydney CBD

Sydney is easy to discover by foot. The new Light Rail has made travel even easier for visitors.

If you want to get a feel for Sydney before you start exploring on foot or by public transport consider using the Hop on Hop off Bus especially if you want to visit Bondi Beach.

Inclusions, when you purchase the Hop on Hop off bus:

2 hop-on and hop-off routes around Sydney
1-day validity or 2-day validity (depending on the option chosen)
Sydney Harbour cruise (included in the Deluxe ticket)
Digital commentary in a choice of 8 languages
WiFi on board

Day 1 of Your Sydney Itinerary

If you are staying in the Rocks area and you are on a budget we can recommend the best budget accommodation with the best view in Sydney staying at the YHA Sydney Harbour . Not only do they have dorm rooms but you can stay in a double room with ensuite, just as we did. You must check out their archaeological site at the entrance and their rooftop for panoramic views.

If you want to be close to Darling Harbour we can recommend the Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour with its rooftop bar and swimming pool with great views over the city. As you can see we love roof top bars and views, especially in Sydney with its harbour and iconic bridge.

Either accommodation or location mentioned will have you staying in the heart of the city and perfect for Sydney sightseeing.

If you are on a tight budget but still want to visit Australia there are some options to get free or cheaper accommodation . One of those options includes house sitting and there are 100s of assignments available now.

Every visitor wants to head down to the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge on their first day. If you have time you can book a Sydney Opera House Guided Tour which includes the Entrance Ticket.

The tour lasts an hour and includes:

Step beneath the sails and discover what makes the Sydney Opera House so inspiring
Explore the building with passionate and knowledgeable guides
Step inside iconic theatres and foyers
Capture photographs from rare vantage points, off limits to the general public
Uncover insider secrets and stories

Good to know : The Opera Bar is open from 11 am and is the perfect venue for a meal or a cocktail or two with its backdrop of Sydney Harbour. It is our favourite venue to bring family and friends when they visit Sydney.

Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens

The Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens were created in 1816. They are a beautiful part of the city and many visitors and locals come to relax and enjoy their beauty. They are a popular spot to enjoy the fireworks at New Years Eve. There are 30 hectares to enjoy and can take you up to 2.5 hours to explore. There are places to eat and enjoy the ambience of the gardens.

The gardens are open from 7 am daily but during the year they close at various times. You can check on their website here .

There are local tours available:

Aboriginal Heritage Tour

Free guided walk

Bespoke heritage tours

All can be booked online .

The Rocks area of Sydney is where the first settlers arrived back in 1788. We enjoy coming to the Rocks area in the afternoon and wandering through the lanes before heading to a local pub for dinner and drinks. You can also visit the Rocks Discovery Museum or the Museum of Contemporary Art . Entrance is free to both museums.

Rocks Walking Tour

To learn more about the Rocks area a walking tour is the way to go. There are two available that we recommend:

The Rocks 90-Minute Walking Tour:

Take a walk off the beaten track through hidden alleyways, along cobbled lanes and into shady courtyards
Enjoy spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge across sparkling Sydney Cove
Hear stories of triumph over tragedy and be introduced to characters from the early convict settlement era

Check availability here

2.5 Hour Sydney Rocks Area – History and Convicts Walking Tour

Embark on a journey through time and space to discover the secrets of Sydney’s convict colony in the Rocks. Wind through cobblestone alleyways once home to Sydney’s most notorious rum dealers and street gangs. Discover the inner workings of heritage buildings and the unknown stories behind important sculptures, maps, models and relics. Check Explore unique sandstone structures, hidden ruins and the story of the infamous convict architect

If you are visiting on a weekend The Rocks Market is held every weekend from 10 am to 5 pm at George Street and Playfair Street. In December before Xmas Day they are also open on Friday evenings from 4 pm to 8 pm.

Some of our favourite places to eat and drink at the Rocks are:

The Glenmore Hotel – 96 Cumberland Street The Rocks. Travel tip : book the corner table in the Roof Top Bar for the best views of Sydney

The Australian Heritage Hotel – one of Sydney’s oldest pub located at 100 Cumberland Street The Rocks

The Endeavour Tap Rooms – brewery bar and restaurant located at 39/43 Argyle Street The Rocks

The Doss House – the heritage underground bar specialising in whiskey

Caminetto Italian Restaurant – great Italian food for breakfast lunch and dinner

Sydney Harbour Bridge

You can walk across the bridge to North Sydney. The access point is from the Bridge Stairs and it takes 20 minutes each way. The Bridge Stairs are located between the Glenmore Hotel and The Rocks YHA Sydney Harbour. This is a free activity.

The path takes you on the eastern side of the bridge so you will have great photo opportunities of the Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay.

Day 2 of Your Itinerary for Sydney

Are you an early riser?

How about a Sunrise Kayak paddle?

What to Expect:

Breakie and coffee credit of $20 provided by the local Flying Bear café after the tour! (https://www.birdandbear.com.au/flying-bear )
A fun-filled, friendly, and safe kayak session in Sydney Harbour, led by qualified guides
A smaller group than most kayak companies in Sydney, with a maximum of 12 paddlers per experience
Photo opportunities with iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge
Safety briefing and equipment customisation at the beginning of your session
Photos dropped via email by the end of the day

If you are not an early riser:

After a good breakfast at your hotel it is time to head to Circular Quay to take the ferry to Taronga Zoo. With the ferry ticket you can depart from Circular Quay and then in the afternoon return to Darling Harbour. The ticket includes entrance to Taronga Zoo and the Sky Safari Cable Car.

The Zoo is open daily from 9.30 am to 5.00 pm. I would suggest allowing 3 hours to visit the Zoo but you may spend longer as there are several shows at different timings throughout the day.

Good to know : A great photo opportunity at Taronga Zoo is the Giraffe Enclosure with its magnificent views across Sydney Harbour.

Travel tip: Take the Sky Safari Cable Car to the top on arrival at the Ferry Wharf. Then wander downhill visiting all the exhibitions and shows. It is an uphill walk from the ferry terminal if you don’t take the Sky Safari.

Day 2 – Afternoon

After visiting Taronga Zoo catch the ferry to Darling Harbour.

Apart from the many restaurants and bars available around Darling Harbour there are some major attractions as well.

Sea Life Sydney Aquarium – Book ahead here and reserve your entrance tickets

Visit one of the world’s most spectacular aquariums with over 12,000 animals from 650 different species
Key creature attractions at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium include Sharks, Dugongs, Platypus, Sting-rays, Penguins and Seahorses
Take advantage of the aquarium’s prime location in heart of Sydney at Darling Harbour
Walk underwater at Sydney’s world-class Aquarium

Good to know:

You can save money by purchasing a Sydney 4 Attractions Pass:

Single entry to 4 Sydney Attractions, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower Eye and Madame Tussauds Sydney.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is located on the city side of Darling Harbour, right in the heart of Sydney

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo is located on the city side of Darling Harbour, right in the heart of Sydney

Sydney Tower EYE

Sydney Tower EYE is located in the Westfield Shopping Centre, at the corner of Pitt St & Market St, right in the heart of the Sydney CBD

Madame Tussauds Sydney

Madame Tussauds is located on the city side of Darling Harbour, right in the heart of Sydney

How about a Sunset Kayak Experience on Sydney Harbour

Enjoy the brisk evening air as you paddle through Sydney Harbour, watching the sun set and the skyline light up.

Some of our favourite places to eat in and around Darling Harbour are:

Nicks Seafood Restaurant – for the best seafood in Sydney. They are located at The Promenade Cockle Bay Wharf. To get the best tables we recommend booking in advance.

Cyren Bar Grill Seafood – Harbourside Darling Harbour. Great for happy hour, views and casual dining.

Planar Restaurant – Ground Floor of the International Convention Centre – casual dining

Fireworks Darling Harbour

If you are visiting on a Saturday night there are fireworks from 9 pm.

Day 3 – Sydney itinerary visiting Bondi Beach

Take a Brunch Paddle on Sydney Harbour before heading to Bondi Beach

Photos dropped by the end of the day
$20 brekkie credit at the local Flying Bear Cafe nearby

It is now time to hit Sydney’s famous beach – Bondi Beach.

How to get to Bondi Beach :

By bus : You can catch Bus 3333 from Circular Quay to Bondi Beach which takes 45 minutes and departs from Stand B

By Metro : There is no direct train to Bondi Beach. You will need to catch a train from Central, Town Hall, Martin Place, Kings Cross, Edgecliff and Bondi Junction. The train ride takes 11 minutes from Town Hall to Bondi Junction. Then change into a 380, 381, 382 or 333 bus for a 15 minute ride to the beach.

Uber/Taxi : You can arrange for a Uber or taxi if there are 3 – 4 travelling together.

Things to do in Bondi

Bondi is famous for its surfing beach. You can take surfing lessons from the best at Bondi Beach whether you are a beginner or intermediate. You will be taught surfing basics in a group of 5 students or less–a great way to increase your surf knowledge, technique, and confidence.

Take a Walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte or Coogee

Popular with everyone and all ages is this scenic beach and cliffside walk. You can choose to walk to Bronte which is 2.5 km or further on to Coogee 6 km. You should be able to complete the 6 km in 2 to 3 hours depending on how many times to stop for those perfect Instagram shots or if you decide to enjoy brunch along the way. Along the way you can visit Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach, Clovelly Beach and Coogee. Along the walk you can see aboriginal carvings that date back 200 years – for more information click here .

If you happen to visit in the Spring look out for the Sculptures by the Sea which is located on the walk between Bondi and Tamarama.

As you know we love our rooftop bars, so, if you make it to Coogee head to the roof top bar of the Coogee Pavillion .

Address : 169 Dolphin Street Coogee

Bondi Beach has such an arrange of places to eat and drink you will be spolit for choice.

Day 4 – Visit Manly on the Northern beaches

One of the top scenic journeys on Sydney Harbour is the ferry ride from Circular Quay past the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House to the northern beaches town of Manly .

There are two types of ferries available – the Manly Fast Ferry which takes approximately 18 minutes and the Manly Ferry which takes around 30 minutes. The Manly Ferry is an icon and we recommend that you make at least one journey on your visit on this old girl of the harbour.

Manly is famous for its beaches, restaurants and the scenic walk from Manly Beach to Shelly Beach.

As you arrive at Manly Wharf there are some premier eating establishments – Manly Wharf Bar and Hugos .

If you make it to Shelly Beach enjoy brunch or lunch at the Boathouse .

Take a Snorkelling Tour

Snorkel in the protected Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve
Try to identify more than 200 fish species, invertebrates and algae
Learn about the coastal culture of Manly from your local guide
Search for endangered species, such as Blue Groper in their natural habitat

For more information and availability click here

Manly Beach Cycle Tour and Sunset Cruise

Experience this memorable Sightseeing tour of Sydney Harbour and Manly Beach by bicycle and ferry
Relax and take in the scenery as you cruise out to the famous Manly Beach
Enjoy learning about the city and its surrounds with our knowledgeable and friendly tour guide
Marvel at stunning views from the world-famous Manly beach, and experience coastal cliffs with city skyline views

Northern Beaches Brewery Tour and Tasting

Visit 3 great breweries in Sydney’s northern suburbs
Have an amazing lunch
Enjoy transport in our air-conditioned buses

Manly Weekend Markets

Just 100m from Manly Beach Manly Weekend Markets are open from 9 am to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. They have a great range of unique arts and crafts.

Visit the Q Station

On Manly’s North Head is the Q station. Once a quarantine station it now has accommodation, a restaurant, a cafe, a museum, its own beach and day and night tours. We recently spent a night staying at the Q Station. You can read our review of our accommodation, our history tour and dinner at the Boilerhouse here.

We hope you have enjoyed our sample itinerary for Sydney. As you can see there is so much to do and see in Sydney in 4 days. Let us know your favourite activities in Sydney when you visit.

Are you on Pinterest? We are at Staycation Australia . Why not follow us and save to your own board for your next travel inspiration?

You may enjoy these articles for getaways from Sydney:

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Privacy Overview

Kate Abroad

4 Days in Cairns Itinerary + Travel Guide 2024

Visiting Cairns in far north Queensland is a highlight of travelling in Australia . With 4 days in Cairns, you’ll see the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the world, relax in paradise on a gorgeous tropical island, explore the regional city of Cairns, and experience Australia’s unique and ancient rainforests.

Cairns has a lot to offer visitors who venture to the far north of the country.

While Cairns is best known as the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, if you travel inland, you’ll find lush green forests with plunging waterfalls, deep gorges and crocodile-infested rivers.

You can fill 4 days in Cairns with exciting, adventurous activities or you can simply relax on the beach at beautiful Palm Cove or escape to the stunning tropical islands of the Great Barrier Reef just offshore in the Coral Sea.

In this 4 day Cairns itinerary, you’ll see the best sights and the most beautiful scenery that the area has to offer. I’ve also included some alternative activity suggestions to help you tailor the trip to your interests.

Things to do in Cairns in 4 days

Explore the city of Cairns
Stroll along the Cairns Esplanade & Lagoon
Visit the Cairns Botanical Gardens
Relax at Palm Cove Beach
Discover Cairns Museum
Visit the Cairns Aquarium
Shop at the Cairns Night market
Get an adrenaline fix at the Cairns Wildlife Dome
Relax on gorgeous Green Island
Catch the ferry to stunning Fitzroy Island
Snorkel in the Falkland Islands
Snorkel or dive on the outer Great Barrier Reef
Visit Port Douglas
Visit Kuranda village on the Skyrail Cableway & Scenic Railway.
Explore Mossman Gorge and the Daintree Rainforest
Take a Crocodile cruise on the Daintree River

Cairns 4 day itinerary

Day 1 in cairns – exploring cairns city.

If you enjoy walking you can explore Cairns on foot, stroll around the waterfront and along the Cairns Esplanade , stop for a swim at the Esplanade Lagoon , and watch the helicopters taking off from the helipad and the ferries coming and going from the Marlin Wharf.

Cairns Esplanade path with skyline in background

Stop for a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the restaurants on the waterfront, then choose from the following attractions to fill the rest of the day:

Cairns Aquarium

Visit the Cairns Aquarium to discover the marine ecosystems and habitats of Tropical North Queensland and see the beautiful array of underwater wildlife from colourful fish to reef sharks and manta rays.

Cairns Botanic Gardens

The Cairns Botanic Gardens is a delight to visit in the leafy suburb of Edge Hill.

The displays of tropical plants are the best in Australia, and you can stroll through the gardens under a lush green canopy, along butterfly-lined pathways and relax amongst the beautiful tropical greenery.

Cairns Museum

At the Cairns Museum, the history and culture of Cairns City are on display, and you’ll discover what it’s like to live in the tropics with coral reefs, sugarcane fields and rainforests on the doorstep. You’ll learn about how the area was settled and the history of the railways in the area.

Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome

At Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome , you’ll find a wildlife park with activities for more adventurous travellers.

Enjoy the thrill of a zipline, a power jump, rope and climbing courses with spectacular views from the top of the dome. In the wildlife park, you can get up close and personal with the native Australian wildlife.

Cairns Night Market

Open from 4:30 pm every night, the Cairns Night Market is a fun place to shop for souvenirs and grab a bite to eat.

Located on Abbott Street, the night market has around 70 stalls, a food court and a selection of restaurants.

Day 2 in Cairns – Great Barrier Reef outer reef trip

No 4 day Cairns itinerary is complete without a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Great Barrier Reef.

On an outer reef day trip , you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive in some of the best spots on the reef and enjoy the beautiful underwater world of colourful fish and coral and a variety of sea creatures.

Endangered sea turtles live on the reef along with sharks, rays, giant clams and much more.

Kayaking On The Waters Off Lady Musgrave Island

Day 3 in Cairns – Rainforest Visit

Kuranda skyrail cableway and scenic railway.

On day 3 of your 4 days in Cairns, it’s time to travel inland to the UNESCO World Heritage rainforest just outside Cairns.

Ride the scenic Skyrail Cableway to Kuranda and travel above the rainforest canopy enjoying the dramatic scenery of Barron Gorge.

Stop off along the way to see spectacular waterfalls and explore the village of Kuranda.

There are lots of shops and markets to enjoy at Kuranda village and, after a leisurely lunch and a rainforest walk, ride back to Cairns on the Scenic Railway .

Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the area and the difficulties of building a railway track through the thick rainforests of Barron Gorge.

The Daintree Rainforest & Mossman Gorge

Alternatively, you can join a day tour to The Daintree Rainforest and visit the gorgeous Mossman Gorge , see crocodiles in their natural habitat on the Daintree River and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery of Cape Tribulation where the rainforest meets the reef.

A remote wilderness area that lies around 100 kilometres north of Cairns, much of the wild and beautiful Daintree Rainforest is inaccessible but it is possible to visit this protected wilderness area on a day trip from Cairns.

Day 4 in Cairns – Tropical Island Day Trip

Visiting a tropical island paradise on the Great Barrier Reef is one of the best things to do in Cairns. Several gorgeous islands lie just offshore and are fabulous to visit for a day (or several days) of snorkelling, swimming, sunbathing and exploring.

You can meet Cassius the crocodile on Green Island or learn more about endangered sea turtles at the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre on Fitzroy Island .

Both Green Island & Fitzroy Island are easy to reach by ferry from the Cairns waterfront and you can snorkel from the beach, swim with turtles and enjoy the incredible underwater world of the Reef on both these lovely islands.

The Falklands Islands are also easily accessible from Cairns. If you can stay more than 4 days in Cairns, why not visit more than one of these beautiful tropical islands?

How to get to Cairns

Flying into cairns.

Because of the long distances involved in travelling to Cairns, the easiest way to get there is to fly.

Cairns has an International Airport with daily flights to capital cities and popular locations around Australia and overseas.

Driving to Cairns

Cairns is around 1,700 kilometres from Brisbane and around 2,400 kilometres from Sydney so it’s a long trip by car that will take several days.

If you want to explore the area by car, the easiest way, with only 4 days in Cairns, is to travel by air and hire a car at the airport when you arrive.

Getting to Cairns by Train

Travelling overland by train is a comfortable way to reach Cairns and The Spirit of Queensland connects Cairns with Brisbane. The trip takes 24 hours by train with connections in Brisbane to other states and cities throughout Australia.

TIP: Consider stopping off en route and exploring other places in Queensland before starting this Cairns 4 day itinerary.

Getting to Cairns by Bus

Greyhound and Premier buses are the cheapest way to travel to Cairns and around Australia. Regular coach services connect Cairns with Brisbane and the trip takes around 29 hours by bus. You can check times and prices on BusBud.

Best time to visit Cairns

The best time of year to spend 4 days in Cairns is from June to October. It’s the dry season and it’s the best time for swimming and snorkelling because there are no stingers in the water.

But the shoulder seasons in April/May and September/October can also be a good time to go because there are cheaper flights and fewer tourists.

The tropical climate in Cairns brings dry weather in winter with the wet season during the summer months.

But the winter weather in Cairns is typically warm and sunny with highs of 26°C (79°F), and lows of 18°C (64°F). And the water temperature in winter is a balmy 25°C (77°F), perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

The summer months from December to February are hot and wet with high humidity. Summer is also stinger season and, although swimming is possible if you wear a lycra stinger suit, it’s best to stay out of the water in summer to avoid the dangerous Irukandji jellyfish.

Fitzroy Island beach with some people on it

Where to stay in Cairns

Cairns has a wide selection of accommodation for all budgets and here are a few suggestions for where to stay.

Luxury – The Hilton Hotel in Cairns is a 5-star hotel right in the centre of town. This hotel is located on the waterfront, close to attractions and a selection of dining options. The location of this popular luxury hotel near the Esplanade and the ferry wharf is unbeatable.

Mid-Range – The Coral Tree Inn is a good mid-range choice in Cairns city centre and gets exceptional reviews. It’s friendly, quiet, clean, and a 15-minute walk to the waterfront

Budget – YHA Cairns Central has a great location in the heart of Cairns near shops, cafes and restaurants. This friendly hostel has comfortable common areas, a pool, and a BBQ area.

In short: 4 days in Cairns

There are so many fun things to do in Far North Queensland and 4 days in Cairns is enough time to experience the highlights of the city and the surrounding area, snorkel or dive on the Great Barrier Reef, spend a day on a tropical island and discover the beautiful rainforests.

Cairns has something for everyone along with all the services you need for a comfortable holiday.

I loved visiting Cairns in Far North Queensland, and I think you’ll enjoy this Cairns 4 day itinerary.

This article was written by Linda from Muy Linda Travels . Linda is a travel blogger and teacher from Australia. She loves to travel solo and over the years she’s visited around 50 countries on 5 different continents.

Australia Travel Resources

Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
Find awesome day tours on Viator and Get Your Guide
Save on Sydney attractions with a Go City Pass
Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
Sort your Australian dollars with a Wise currency card

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4 DAYS IN SYDNEY – OUR ITINERARY GUIDE

Sydney is with no doubts an unavoidable destination in any Australian travel itinerary. In our collective imagination places like the Opera House, the golden sandy beaches full of surfers, and the Harbour Bay are amongst the most symbolic in Australia. That’s why you need minimum 4 days to visit the capital of New South Wales , located in the southeast of Australia.

ALSO READ: How to reach the Blue Mountains by train from Sydney In this article we offer an itinerary of Sydney to follow on foot and using public transport. Let’s get to know the most iconic places in town!

HOW TO GET TO SYDNEY

For obvious logistical reasons, the vast majority of visitors arrives in Sydney by plane. You’ll be happy to know that Sydney Kingsford Smith airport is just 8 km from the city , and well connected. It takes 25 minutes by train, even less by car (traffic permitting). Whereas you won’t be happy to certify the price of an Opal Card , needed to use public transport across the city, which will set you back 35AU$ (25US$). Despite the airport being close-by, the ticket costs 19.80$ for a one way trip. Consider a taxi/Uber. For those who are already here in Australia and will reach Sydney travelling on-the-road like we did in the past , we suggest Lane Cove Caravan Park or Sheralee Tourist Caravan Park to spend the night in your van and easily explore Sydney by day. We didn’t get to Sydney straight on a helicopter, but we did take a memorable flight over the city. That’s how we managed to take photos like this one! More info about the helicopter flight here.

DAY 1 – SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE AND HARBOUR BRIDGE

If you too have been dreaming of Sydney for years, the first destination on your itinerary of Sydney will be the Opera House . The world famous building is wonderfully located on the waterfront within the bay, facing the other majestic monument, the Harbour Bridge . Hop off at Circular Quay station to get there. From here you can take several walks along the bay and enjoy the views from many angles. Not far from the Opera House you can chill out at the Sydney Royal Botanical Garden , the typically huge green area where native Australian plants are displayed. A nice panoramic point is Mrs Macquarie’s Chair . This is where we watched the well-known New Year’s Eve Fireworks from (video below). Next to Harbour Bridge is the neighbourhood of The Rocks , great for a cocktail or dinner by night. Check this popular tour to visit the Sydney Opera House from inside!

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Ambra&Edo│Travel Couple 🇮🇹 (@amilliontravels)

DAY 2 – BONDI, BRONTE & COOGEE BEACHES

After a first day of city landmarks, it’s time to hit the beach! Winters in Sydney (May to September) are mild and can be wet, but for the rest of the year it gets hot as soon as the sun is out. The most popular beach is Bondi Beach . It’s your classic postcard from Australia: a wide sandy beach spreading out for hundreds of square metres, exposed to open winds which create perfect waves for surfers. Come here to sunbathe and swim, have a picnic, and admire the surfers doing what they do best. We definitely recommend the Bondi to Bronte walk (2.5 km) and up to Coogee for the more fit among you (6 km). These locations feature amazing beaches and breathtaking cliff-side views. In order to reach Bondi Beach you can either take the bus from the city (30 minutes), or the train to Bondi Junction followed by bus n.333 to the beach. If you are in a group of three or four, you might be better off with taking a taxi/Uber. Warning : if you want to swim at Bondi Beach and any other beach, make sure you do so within the yellow-red flags which indicate the presence of life-savers. Riptides are very strong and areas outside the flags are for surfers only.

DAY 3 – FERRY TO MANLY AND DARLING HARBOUR

We talked earlier about the Opal Card for transports. The best days to use it are Saturdays and Sundays, since the daily cap is halved from 16.30$ to 8.15$. Besides the real perk is using ferries, which allow you to move quickly around the bay and to do some sightseeing at the same time. Therefore if you are in Sydney over the weekend, make sure to keep a full day to make the best of this opportunity to visit the following spots. Luna Park: the old Sydney Luna Park is one of the most loved places by kids and families. Plenty of fun and rides by the waterfront. The Luna Park is just one ferry stop away from Circular Quay. Kirribilli: quiet Kirribilli neighbourhood, home to the Australian Prime Minister, is opposite to the Opera House. It can be reached by ferry too, come here for a different perspective over the city. Manly Beach: if you want to see another beautiful beach in Sydney, the Manly Ferry will take you to the seaside area of the same name. The charming cross takes roughly half an hour, ferries are frequent. If instead you prefer quieter corners, head to Rose Bay or Watsons Bay , 20 minutes away. Darling Harbour: west of the CBD lies fascinating Darling Harbour, full of bars, restaurants and tourist attractions, including different museums, the aquarium and the observation wheel. Ideal to spend the evening, and it can be reached by sea too.

Want to earn with your photography skills? Smiler App is the first on-the-spot photography marketplace, which makes photographers and customers meet in tourist spots or points of interest as stadiums, museums, conferences. You can join Smiler for free at this link.

DAY 4 – ALTERNATIVE NEIGHBOURHOODS

We are almost at the end of our itinerary of Sydney . If you have half more day to spend in town before leaving, here’s some ideas to keep busy for a few hours. The city centre offers many galleries and shopping malls. The most famous ones are older Queen Victoria Building , and newer Tower Eye , with its revolving platform and restaurant at the top. As for most metropolis, Sydney too has its own Chinatown . It lies close the CBD, offering many food places, the night market, and the Chinese Garden of Friendship. Several museums in Sydney are free , among which the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Australian Museum, and the State Library of NSW. Also, they are easily reachable on foot and nearby the nice green areas at Hyde Park and the Botanical Garden. Last but not least we mention the cool neighbourhoods of Surry Hills , known for its quirky cafés and bars, and Newtown , where the music video “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay was recorded.

If you’re staying longer read our article How to reach the Blue Mountains by train from Sydney

Our 4-day itinerary of Sydney is complete! Don’t hesitate to write us in the comment section below if you have any questions. We wish you a great time in Sydney! READ ALSO: Cairns, Tropical North Queensland 5 of the best waterfalls in Tasmania, Australia

HOTEL – WHERE TO STAY IN SYDNEY

You can book all your stays in Sydney and Australia with free cancellation here.
Best Western Plus Hotel Stellar : excellent value for money in the city centre of Sydney, close to Hyde Park.
Metro Aspire Hotel Sydney: located in the neighbourhood of Ultimo, not far from Darling Harbour.
Lane Cove Caravan Park : our favourite caravan park in Sydney, 20 minutes by train from the CBD, prices from 40AU$ (29US$) including all facilities.

HOW TO GET AROUND

Car and campervan: as said it’s convenient to stay in a caravan park by night and head to the city everyday. If you’ll be travelling out of Sydney too, rent a car at the airport. Best car rental options in Australia here.
Train and metro: you need to get a Opal Card at the airport to start using public transport, priced at 35AU$ (26US$). The fare from/to the airport is 19,80$, rides in town between 3-6$ with a maximum daily cap at 16,30$ (8,15$ weekends). The Opal Card is valid for buses and ferries too.
Helicopter tours: 20-40 minute long flights over the city and the bays, starting from the airport. More info here.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Never leave home without a reliable travel insurance. Better safe than sorry. We recommend two options for you to compare. Get a quote with Worldnomads here , and get up to 20% off your travel insurance with Heymondo here.

Disclaimer: this post contains links to products and services for which we may be compensated, at no additional cost for you. Thanks for your support that helps us keep our blog free and operating!

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The perfect Sydney itinerary for 4 days

July 14, 2019
62 Comments

If you know me, you probably have a fair idea of my love for the countryside, mountains and lakes, and historical towns with medieval architecture. Big cities fail to impress me, modern architecture doesn't charm me and I am really past my age of partying late into the night. So when I decided to visit Australia, I was looking forward to exploring the remote places more than visiting Melbourne and Sydney and kept my expectations from these cities quite low. However, since I was travelling with my senior parents, who weren't too excited about hiking or beach-bumming like me, I promised that I would keep the last 4 days of our trip for one of the most acclaimed metropolises in the world - Sydney. I worked up a Sydney itinerary that was a good mix between covering all the famous sites, shopping and some nature walks (unlike most big cities, nature has been kind to Sydney!).

Here's what I appreciated the most about Sydney - it is not just about world-class retail and food outlets, swanky & chic buildings, a spectacular skyline and buzzing nightlife, it's also home to some of the most beautiful blue waters, stunning gardens and to my delight, breathtaking coastal walks that have managed to retain the 'natural' element in an otherwise highly commercialized city. What disappointed me was the weather (and I was unusually unlucky with it for I've heard a lot about its enviable climate); it was pouring all through the 4 days I was there, in the month of March. Luckily, we had booked a hotel in CBD (Central Business District) which wasn't too far from most places and having a car to drive around helped on the days we wanted to visit the beaches. However, I would recommend using public transportation while in Sydney unless you don't mind spending an exorbitant amount of money and time on parking.

Click here to book your car in Sydney.

The perfect 4-day Sydney Itinerary

Darling Harbour

Day 1: Sydney CBD: Chinatown, Paddy's Markets & Darling Harbour

Although it is ideal to find a hotel in the Central Business District (CBD), either near Darling Harbour or Circular Quay, it's likely that you may not be able to afford one and like me, would prefer to stay close to the central yet low budget area. Chinatown , located in Haymarket, in South CBD fits the requirements perfectly. If you're a fan of authentic Chinese food like me, then you'll be in foodie heaven in this place. This is also where you can buy some inexpensive Chinese goods, enjoy the colourful Oriental architecture and soak in the atmosphere. Dixon Street mall , a pedestrian street, is the heart of Chinatown and has some of the best places to eat as well as shop.

Hardly a 5-minute walk from there are the iconic Paddy's Markets . An indoor market for getting cheap bargains, Paddy's Markets have more than a thousand stalls selling souvenirs, offering massages to the tired feet, fresh local produce and food items, artistic knick-knacks, homewares and crafts.

Sydney Chinatown

If shopping for cheap novelties isn't your thing, then head to Darling Harbour . Hardly a 10-minute walk from Paddy's Markets, Darling Harbour is one of the most popular hang-out places in Sydney. Any Sydney itinerary would be incomplete without a visit to this waterfront entertainment venue, lined with boutique shops, restaurants, museums and several other tourist attractions to keep one busy. The Sydney skyline view from here is quite appealing and taking a sunset cruise is not uncommon. Or simply enjoy a stroll along the paved promenade, walk into the high-end shops to buy fashionable clothing and shoes, or visit one of the museums (Madame Tussauds, Australia National Maritime Museum, Sydney Sealife Aquarium). The precinct is buzzing at night and the perfect place to experience the quintessential Sydney life, with a cocktail in one of the rooftop bars or dining on the waterfront while enjoying the brilliantly lit night sky.

The secluded garden bar at the top floor of East Village Hotel is quite a find in the area!

Recommended budget hotel stay in Sydney: Capitol Square Hotel (Haymarket)

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Day 2: Taronga Zoo, Manly, Opera House & Circular Quay

On day 2 of your perfect 4-day Sydney itinerary, I would highly recommend taking the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly / Taronga Zoo for the best views of the Harbour Bridge as well as The Opera House.

If you're planning on visiting the Taronga Zoo , the ferry ride is hardly 12 minutes from Circular Quay and is following by a cable car ride from the ferry pier to the zoo, which is included in the price of the zoo's admission ticket. This is also a great idea because you will explore the zoo from the topmost point, walking downhill, allowing for the best vantage point views of Sydney's Harbour. The zoo is home to some of Australia's most exotic wildlife and if you haven't had the chance to see kangaroos, wallabies, dangerous reptiles and cute koalas anywhere else yet, then the zoo is a great place for animal encounters. You cannot cuddle a Koala at Taronga Zoo though you can get up close to them under supervision. You can, however, play with a wallaby (there's no food available to feed them, unfortunately), watch the fur seals and sea lion show, and feed penguins and giraffes at an extra cost.

Another lively neighbourhood that should make it to your Sydney itinerary is Manly . You can either take a direct ferry from Circular Quay to Manly or one from Taronga Zoo. Located a bit far from the central district, Manly's beach is one of the best in Sydney, especially for the surfers. A laid back, holiday vibe is what'll greet you in Manly as soon as you alight from the ferry. Walk along The Corso , a pedestrian street with souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, buzzing with live performers and street musicians.

Manly Beach

The golden-sand Manly Beach is a favourite of surfers and even has a surfing school located right next to it. If you're into scenic coastal views, then the 10-km Manly Scenic Walkway might be of your interest. If that seems too long, then the short 2-km Cabbage Tree Bay Coastal Walk is the perfect easy coastal stroll that will take you through some breathtaking views of the blue waters of Manly.

Coastal Walk

In the evening, head back to Circular Quay by the ferry from Manly and you'll absolutely love the night views of the harbour. If you're lucky to be in the area on a weekend, The Rocks Markets at Circular Quay is a really cool one to explore. Unlike the cheap novelties of most street markets, this one features high-quality local fashion collection of clothes, trinkets, precious stones, gourmet food and handmade beauty products.

Sydney Opera House

Walk to The Cruise Bar for a sundowner and spectacular sunset views of both The Harbour Bridge and The Opera House. Alternatively, you could also head up to The Pylon Lookout , situated on the Harbour Bridge, that offers vantage point view of The Opera House and the harbour. At a cost of $25, you can climb the 200 steps to the top viewing point of the bridge, walk through a museum which talks about the history of the construction of the bridge and be rewarded with unparalleled panoramic views of the city.

Thunder and lightning at Sydney Opera House

Circular Quay, Sydney

End your evening at one of the bars or restaurants in Circular Quay or watch a performance at The Opera House. Walk down the steps behind the Opera House to the harbour and meet Benny, the local friendly fur seal, or dine at one of the many restaurants with a view. The vibe at Circular Quay is one of the best in the city and the area is also known for its nightlife, and very often, fireworks too!

Circular Quay Dining

Tip: If you're adventurous, why not attempt the Harbour Bridge climb ? Although a little pricey, a journey to the summit of the Harbour Bridge, with harnesses and insane views, sounds totally up my alley, however, I couldn't do it because of the bad weather.

Visiting Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef ? Read about my experience.

Bondi Beach

Day 3: Bondi Beach, Coogee Beach & Watsons Bay

I suggest starting day 3 of your perfect Sydney itinerary with a visit to Coogee Beach and moving up north towards Watsons Bay. Although there is no ferry to Coogee from CBD, you can either catch a bus that takes about 40 minutes or rent a car as it is fairly easy to find street parking outside Coogee Beach. Far less crowded than Bondi beach and lacking its glamour, Coogee beach is laid-back and equally pretty. A great place to swim or just soak up some sun, one of the most popular things to do in the area is the Coogee to Bondi coastal walk . Although this 6km long cliff walk offers stunning coastal views, it may not be everyone's cup of tea. However, a quick walk up the cliff right next to Coogee does the job too- crystal clear waters and the waves crashing on the rugged cliffs are worth taking this short route to the top.

Coogee Beach

Bondi to Coogee coastal walk views

If you're not doing the coastal walk, you could drive to Bondi Beach from Coogee. Popularly known as the queen bee of all Sydney's beaches, Bondi is famous not only in Australia but all over the world. In my personal opinion, the only thing that was better in Bondi Beach as compared to Coogee and Manly Beaches for the atmosphere! Probably because it is the closest to CBD, the beach was crowded and lively.

What caught my eye the most, however, was the ocean pool at Bondi Icebergs . A very popularly Instagrammed place, the pool at Bondi Icebergs has been acclaimed as one of the most photographed pools in the world and rightly so! Open to visitors for a reasonable fee, one can either swim in the famous rock pools or simply enjoy a meal on the terrace that offers sweeping views of the beach, the sea and the spectacular mid-ocean pool.

Bondi Icebergs Pool

Not as popular as the Bondi Coogee Coastal Walk but equally picturesque is the walk from Bondi to Watsons Bay . The 7 km walk is yet another one of Sydney's glorious nature walks which left me in awe. Although I did not attempt the entire route, a drive to soak in the views from the famous viewpoint called The Gap left me speechless. A dramatic cliff point with a sheer drop to the ocean below, you have the unending Pacific views on one side and Sydney's striking skyline on the other. A simply unmatched and rewarding sight, The Gap is one of the most splendid places in the city for those who love impressive views.

The Gap at Watsons Bay

Here's how you can spend 3 Amazing Days in Australia's Gold Coast .

Day 4: Day trip to the Blue Mountains & Jenolan Caves OR Day trip to Hunter Valley Region

You could easily add another day to your Sydney itinerary but if you have only 4, then you'd have to make a choice between one of the day trips suggested here. Having spent 3 days exploring the city, it makes total sense to rent a car on Day 4 and head out to explore the outskirts of Sydney.

The Blue Mountains and Jenolan Caves make for a very popular road trip from Sydney. If you do not plan to rent a car, you could either book a day trip through a tour agency or take a train from Sydney's Central station to Katoomba; the journey lasts 2 hours. Once you arrive at Katoomba station, you can take the HOHO bus from here to Scenic World, just a 10-min ride away. Plan to spend about 2 hours here, as this is the most popular and spectacular place to visit in the Blue Mountains. Start with a ride on the scenic skyway that offers panoramic views of the valley over Katoomba falls and a fantastic view the famous Three Sisters as well. The glass bottom floor allows for a 360-degree view, bringing out the enormity of the valley below.

Three Sisters

You could return to the base of the scenic skyway and take the railway to the valley floor next. Sit right up in the front for the trip downwards if you're adventurous. You can then take the scenic cableway back up from the valley floor to the top station. From here, take the HOHO bus to the Echo Point, another viewpoint that offers sweeping views of the valley, the mountains and the Three Sisters. From here, you can easily see why the mountains are called 'Blue Mountains'!

If you're also planning to visit Jenolan Caves as part of your 4-day perfect Sydney itinerary (which I highly recommend you do), it might be a better idea to rent a car or take a full day tour with an agency rather than the train from Sydney. Also, I would recommend leaving Sydney really early in the morning because this can be one long day for you. Jenolan Caves are further up ahead of Echo Point, by about 1.5 hours. Make sure to check the tour timings for the caves and also book in advance, especially during weekends and peak season. The tour that takes you through the limestone formations, underground streams and a series of cave chambers, lasts for about 1.5 hours with a tour guide who explains how these formations came into being.

Jenolan Caves

If time allows, head to Blue Lake. You could either take the walking track of 2.5 km from the caves to the lake or drive to it. I would highly recommend the scenic walk with beautiful views of the waterfalls, lake and the bridge.

Hunter Valley Region

If, like me, you're a wine enthusiast, then Hunter Valley might take precedence for you over visiting the Blue Mountains. I was, however, very unlucky with the weather and even though I had rented a car to drive to this famous Australian Wine Country, I could not make it due to the extremely harsh conditions, with the rains pouring down all day long. I read up about some of the best wineries for wine tasting, gourmet food and fantastic views, and came across a place called Bistro Molines , that I would've loved to visit, had I been able to make it to Hunter Valley.

For other itinerary suggestions, you can refer to this link

Read Why the Whitsunday Islands must be part of every Australia itinerary .

The pool on Bondi Beach looks dope! Awesome article. I’m about to fly to Sydney next Thursday and this will help. Cheers! 🙂

Bong Junior

Wow Sydney! I really miss this place! Hoping and pray I can visit again.

Pingback: The Best Things to in Sydney with Kids - Thrifty Family Travels

Australia was my first international trip on my own and Sydney was my first stop. I have amazing memories, there couldn’t be a better place to travel for the first time. People were so helpful and there are so many great things to see and do. I wasn’t aware Sydney had such a great Chinatown and missed it, but I will catch it next time for sure

MEENAKSHI J

The vistas that you have captured are truly breathtaking. It is quite helpful the way you have laid out the itinerary. For a family traveller like me, this looks perfect. Has got a nice combination of leisure, soft adventure and wildlife thrown in. It is interesting how every metropolitan has a vibrant China bazar that give life to the mundane. Would love to have a glimpse of the exotic Australian wildlife. And, those Jenolan caves and the Bondi icebergs look splendid.

Wow, Sydney is so beautiful. It is a pity that the weather played a spoilsport when you visited there. You have given a great itinerary for Sydney with a mix of city, beaches and nature. Yes, I would love to climb the Harbours Bridge. I have heard that you get a great view from there. I loved the pictures of Bondi Beach and Watson’s bay. These 2 places will surely be on priority when I visit Sydney.

Medha Verma

I did find the experience (climbing Habour Bridge) sort of expensive. But it’s Australia and nothing really comes cheap there 🙂

Gorgeous photos! We are hoping to do an extended trip to Australia soon, so I loved reading your suggestions. I would love to visit each one of the beaches, but the Coogee coastal walk views especially caught my attention!

Mijia Eggers

On the way to NEw Zealand, we were unable to make a trip to Sydney. We have discovered that we could do a lot of things there and decided to spend more days there. This itinerary is a good reference for us.

Sydney has an added charm considering its combination of modern skylines, traditional markets, buzzing nightlife and tranquil beaches. Jenolan Caves and Blue Lake sound like my kind of places. I would also love to check out the Paddy’s Markets – sounds like a charming place to eat and shop. Sorry to hear that the weather wasn’t in your favour. But I’m glad you still enjoyed your trip to the fullest.

I’m planning to visit Australia by the end of the next year and your guide is so handy for Sydney itinerary. Which other cities would you suggest for a 12 days trip to Australia?

Hi Ana, you could do Melbourne, Gold Coast and Whitsundays Islands or Cairns for Great Barrier Reef. I have written about them all on my blog, feel free to have a read 🙂

Ambica Gulati

Like you, I am a nature walk and explore at ease person. So, this is quite a good post for it’s not one of those random list on the bars and the nightlife. I would love to hike up Harbour Bridge for the views, but need to get fitter for that. Jenolan Caves and Bondi Iceberg pools are now on my bucket list. The pictures really make this a super place to visit.

Happy to hear that Ambica x

I also prefer outdoors than cities but Sydney is a beautiful place. As someone that visited Sydney on several occasions, this sounds like the perfect itinerary. It sums up the best the city has to offer, it has the right amount of activities and anything more would make the itinerary too packed.

Thanks Daniel, I’m glad you think so x

wow , this is perfect. I was actually looking for a Sydney itinerary and this looks perfect according to me. Thanks a lot for sharing your knowledge. This actually saves a lot of time for people like me.

blair villanueva

I haven’t been to Australia, and I am excited to visit it (yup Sydney first!) this coming December for the holiday season. Perfect timing, I will save your recommendations.

I lived 2 months in Sydney and I haven’t been to half of the places to mention in this itinerary. I guess I mostly spent time in the city and Manly beach… I would have needed it at the time! The good news is that I am going back there soon and I just bookmarked this post. Your itinerary is so complete and 4 days is exactly what you need in Sydney if you are passing by. Thank you so much for your insights!!!

It often happens that we do not end up exploring the city that we live in, as a tourist would! Good to hear that you’re going back soon, gives you another opportunity to visit the places you missed while you were there. Have fun!

I agree that lesser-known areas of Australia are so amazing, but I’m glad you found some awesome things to do in Sydney as well! I loved Sydney and you are right — it definitely has more nature aspects than most cities. I really enjoyed walking from the Opera House to the botanical gardens, they are so beautiful. Manly Beach was another highlight and I was lucky to get to do a day trip to the Blue Mountains and see the Three Sisters too. I wish I had been able to go see The Gap — it looks incredible. I will have to put it on my list for next time, thank you!

I’m sure there are several other beautiful viewpoints and nature walks that I didn’t even have the time to do! It seemed to me that I could’ve spent a few more days in Sydney, easily!

Similar to you, I love when big cities have nature components too and aren’t all about skyscrapers and bright lights. Day 3 at the beach stood out to me the most, though having never been to Sydney, I’d love to go and experience it all. I love the pools at Bondi beach – they’re a pleasure just to look at, I can only imagine how fun it would be to experience it in person.

Aleksandr Popkov

hmm. somehow, I am the most intrigued by the china town and the paddy’s market. They seem to be the places, where you really can feel the culture. Opera and things are cool, but I am kinda tired of architecture… get to see it everywhere I go.

We all have our own likes and dislikes 😉 Paddy’s Markets were quite cool, I ended up buying a lot of tidbits 🙂

This is such a detailed itinerary for Sydney, and perfect for someone like me who’s yet to visit. I love the look of all the beaches, but I must say that Bondi looks wonderful. And though I’m not a fan of the Instagrammable places, I can see why the Icebergs pool is popular. The Gap is equally stunning to me, and I can picture myself there taking in all the scenery. I really hope to visit one day soon!

I love visiting places that I’ve previously seen on Instagram and really liked. Bondi Icebergs was not a disappointment at all! The Gap certainly had unparalleled coastal views.

This Sydney itinerary is fantastic Medha, just the perfect balance between traditional sites and escapes in the nature! Bondi Beach looks stunning and The Gap viewpoint is just spectacular. I’ve also heard that Scenic World, is pretty cool but I’m not sure that I could handle the glass floor in the skyway…so scary!

If you’re scared of heights then it probably isn’t the best idea 😉

What an awesome trip you had. I’ve been trying to talk the bf into a trip here for ages. Australia is such a beautiful country and Sydney just looks incredible. I’d love the chance to make it through this itinerary!

Annick Lenoir-Peek

I’m planning a three day stay in Sydney early next year and this itinerary really helps with planning. I’ve visited a long time ago and look forward to seeing the Opera House and visiting the harbor. I saw Bondi Beach from a distance last time but want to see the famous pool. All in all great suggestions for how to get from place to place too.

That’s awesome Annick, visiting a cit for the second time allows you to go to places you couldn’t go the first time. Have fun x

Christopher Mitchell

I sure wish I had this post at my disposal before I went to Sydney for the first time! Great stuff.

Eric Gamble

I guess if you only have 4 days that this is the perfect Sydney Itinerary for 4 days. But man o man, with all there is to do in and around Sydney, I feel that you would easily need a month. In Day 1 all those markets would be right up my alley! The Paddy’s Markets sounds like a blast exploring. What a cool way to learn about the local foods, crafts, and overall culture then an outdoor market. With Day 2 those bays with the views are perfect. Obviously the Sydney Opera house is iconic. However, the Zoo though cool sounding would bum me out if I cant really hold or touch a koala. As for Day 3…you had me at beach. The more I read about Australia and the beaches near Sydney…the more I want to explore Bondi & Watson’s Bay. For Day 4..the hiker in me would be super excited to explore all the different mountains and cliffs. The more I think about Sydney and the surrounding areas the more it reminds me of San Diego, here in the United States. Yeah I may need a perfect Sydney Itinerary for 4 years!

Haha, I’m sure you can spend a lot more than 4 days there easily. Unfortunately, I never have more than 4-5 days in a city and have to make the most of it.

Adrenaline Romance

Manly Beach seems so manly! LOL! 😀 Bondi Beach seems to be perfect for surfing; are the waves always that big and strong?

My childhood friend Levi lived in Sydney for most of his adult life until he decided to go back to the Philippines to live here for good. He said Sydney is a beautiful city, and it shows in your photos.

Sydney always struck me as a big city and for some reason, I only thought of it as a point of disembarkation. However, the number of day trips from here make it interesting. Like the Caves – I think they look really fascinating. And of course, the epic Great Ocean Road road trip includes the city. Your post added some more stops to my itinerary for Sydney.

Alysa Tarrant

Australia has long been on my list, especially after binge watching Dance Academy! This is such a great itinerary to start with. What other parts of Australia would you recommend?

The Great Ocean Road drive from Melbourne is quite iconic. Great Barrier Reef is a must visit and Whitsunday Islands are incredible. Gold Coast is a lot of fun too 😉

Can I do all the things? Absolutely everything sounds fantastic but I think I am most intrigued by Paddy’s Markets and the glass bottom skyway. It does seem like an expensive (once in a life time) trip, but it’s going on the bucket list!

My itineraries are usually activity-packed, I end up covering a lot in a day, even though sometimes it may seem like a rush. I wish I had another day though, to make it to Hunter Valley 🙂

I have been to Sydney and lived for couple of months so can’t comment that these many things can be done in 4 days. As I took some time and did all these places at my leisure. For me Bondi beach was over crowded and so could not admired its beauty because I came here during the peak summer time. Though I liked Toronga zoo and Darling Harbor a lot.

How was it to live there? It’s usually like that – when you know you’re going to be in a place for a while, you tend not to rush and take your own sweet time in exploring the place.

This really does seem like the perfect Sydney itinerary! I’ve always wanted to go and thought that I wanted to fit too many things into my stay, but this proves it can be done. Bondi and Coogee beaches are on my bucket list! Such a beautiful place.

While I do appreciate nature and beautiful countryside, I am more of a city girl so I have always wanted to go to Sydney. I do love cities on the water and it looks like Sydney would be a perfect city for me. You shared so many greats ideas of what there is to do. The Coogee to Bondi coastal walk looks really nice. The harbor bridge climb sounds right up my alley too!

Mijua Eggers

I like that Bondi beach because the pool is so close to the sea. The Jenilan Caves are also interesting. I like to see caves around the world. Thanks for the tips.

The pool at Bondi Icebergs is pretty awesome!

I visited Sydney a couple of years back and not too sure why, but I didn’t quite enjoy it. Seeing your post makes me want to visit the city again to discover all the places I’ve missed out or didn’t quite get to explore. The coastal walks especially! Can’t believe I didn’t visit Manly beach or spent more time at Bondi to do the coastal walks.

For me, the coastal walks were the highlight! I preferred them over the happening city centre or the harbour.

Shreya Saha

The crystal water of the bay and the coastal area are really beautiful. It’s not about the skyscrapers, now I know, Sydney is more about the beautiful beaches. I am not surprised seeing the Chinatown there also, it’s almost everywhere. However, I loved the Bondi Beach and Watson’s Bay the most.

Haha, yes, there’s a Chinatown everywhere 😉

Iuliana Marchian

I have a friend who lives in Sydney and keeps inviting me to go there. I usually like to stay in a big city for at least a week so that I have time to explore all its parts at a slow pace. Your 4-day itinerary seems perfect for my travelling style and the China Town reminds me of course of bustling Bangkok.

There’s nothing better than knowing a local when you travel, they usually take you to the hidden gems! You must make it to Sydney soon x

This looks like a perfect itinerary for 4 days in Sydney. It has a little bit of everything, which is what I would do too if I ever make it there. Those beaches look absolutely stunning, but my main desire is to see an opera at the Sydney Opera House.

Wow Sydney looks beautiful! I’d love to go and see the Sydney Opera House, the caves also look gorgeous 🙂

I will be in Perth in October and would love to try make a stop in Sydney too! The Gap at Watson’s Bay looks like an incredible view. I love getting out of the city and into nature so this guide is perfect! Would love to do the Coogee to Bondi coastal walk – that scenery must be amazing!

That coastal walk is definitely worth going for!

I also prefer getting away from the cities and exploring nature off the beaten path and I did my fair share of that in Australia. However, I also love Sydney- it’s an amazing city! And I have to say, you did a great job with this 4-day itinerary. I’m impressed you cover the city’s main highlights in such a short time period.

Great and informative post!! your photos are STUNNING. The Bondi Beach looks amazing.

Nicole Hunter

I am exactly like you. I’m going to Australia in March and I don’t really want to go to cities. I want to go to more remote and authentic places to experience natural beauty and such. However, I’m glad that you were happy with your time in Sydney. I’ll have to rethink my approach to our holiday.

Do make it to Byron Bay, Great Barrier Reef and Great Ocean Road, the three highlights of my trip. Also, Whitsunday Islands ?

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4 days in Cairns

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Dine at bustling seaside restaurants, visit a quirky mountain village, island-hop in the Great Barrier Reef and search for Aboriginal bush foods in the Daintree Rainforest – all from the coastal city of Cairns.

By Carly Spek and Amy Fraser

The must-do experiences

Explore the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef
Walk beneath the vines of the incredible Daintree Rainforest
Visit the quirky mountain village of Kuranda

Day 1: Explore Cairns

Take the time to discover the charms of Cairns , a bustling coastal city fringed by unmatched natural environments.

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Where to stay in Cairns

As a major gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a vibrant hub with plenty of choice when it comes to hotels.

Read time • 4min

Day 2: Discover the Great Barrier Reef

As a popular gateway to the Great Barrier Reef , Cairns offers plenty of opportunities to encounter the world’s most magical marine environment.

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Secret islands of the Great Barrier Reef

Away from the Great Barrier Reef's better-known getaways are uninhabited lush islands, small coral cays and resorts where you can have a whole island to yourself.

Read time • 6min

Day 3: Visit Kuranda and Port Douglas

An easy day trip from Cairns, the mountain village of Kuranda will have you feeling a world away with its charming township and lush surroundings.

Kuranda Scenil Railway, Kuranda, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Guide to Kuranda

A picturesque mountain retreat surrounded by rainforest, Kuranda makes a great day trip from Cairns.

Day 4: Unwind in the Daintree Rainforest

Feel a sense of calm wash over you as you wander the shaded pathways of the Daintree Rainforest – at least 135 million years old – and visit its diversity of natural treasures.

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BRISBANE ITINERARY | HOW TO SPEND 4 DAYS IN BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

Planning a trip and looking for the best Brisbane Itinerary? Well, look no further because I’ve put together a super fun and detailed itinerary for what to do, places to visit, tour ideas, and so much more!

Brisbane is the capital city of the Australian state of Queensland, where the weather is mild to hot year-round, the locals are laid back and friendly, and the outdoor lifestyle is unparalleled.

Are you wondering how many days in Brisbane are enough? Spending at least 4 days in Brisbane is super easy, thanks to an epic range of activities to do, sights to see, natural wonders to take in, and beaches to swim at. Not to mention the easygoing Queensland lifestyle to get wrapped up in. But if you are able to spend 5 days in Brisbane or more, the longer, the better.

This great city, located in the south-eastern corner of Queensland, is always growing and evolving and is rapidly transforming into a hip sunny oasis that’s a must on your Australian travel itinerary.

I absolutely loved my visit to Brisbane, and put together this Brisbane travel itinerary to help you give you some ideas for what to get up!

WHERE TO STAY IN BRISBANE

To begin with your Brisbane trip planning, you’ll obviously need a place to sleep. There are tons of different incredible options to choose from all over Brisbane, and it really just depends on your budget and how many days you’ll be spending in Brisbane! Here are a few ideas for you though!

AIRBNB – The older I get and the longer I find myself traveling, the more I become absolutely obsessed with using Airbnb ! I think it’s such a fantastic way to book travel accommodation, as it’s so fun to have your own place in the city, which can give you a much better understanding of local life. When you’re searching in Brisbane, you’ll find there are tons of awesome different areas and suburbs to choose from, with a variety of price ranges! While Brisbane isn’t known to be a budget travel destination, I do think there are some great deals on Airbnb apartments! Also, if you sign-up for a new Airbnb account , you’ll get $79 AD off your first stay (which can almost be an entirely free night!

The Calile Hotel : This is one of the best-selling and top-rated hotels in the city, and would provide for an absolutely amazing stay for your time in Brisbane! It’s perfectly located in the heart of the city center and within walking distance of some of Brisbane’s best restaurants, shopping, bars, and nightlife. They’ve also got a stunning outdoor pool (which will come in handy in the Australian heat), a fitness center, and even spa facilities! The rooms are beautifully decorated, and the amenities and the price is great for Australian standards!
Brisbane City YHA : If you’re on a bit of a tighter budget, then look no further than the Brisbane City YHA! This is where I stayed during my visit to Brisbane many years ago, and had a fantastic experience. While it’s not a crazy party hostel or anything, it’s got an awesome backpacker atmosphere, cheap rates for dorm beds, and well located in the city center!

Where to stay in Brisbane - 4 Day Itinerary

BRISBANE 4 DAY ITINERARY DAY 1: EXPLORE THE CITY LIMITS

Welcome to Brisbane! Whether you’ve arrived in summer, spring, winter, or autumn, the odds are the weather is mild to hot and the sun is out. The joys of Queensland living! Exploring Brisbane is fun, and there’s so much to see and do within the city limits you’ll easily while away the hours without even noticing.

If taking a refreshing dip in the Pacific Ocean is on your checklist, head to Streets Beach, a man-made beach with the city skyline as a unique backdrop. Located along the central South Bank, it’s free to visit and a city dweller hotspot to escape the Brisbane heat. It will also put you in the heart of the city, where there is so much exploration to be done! Even if you don’t want to go for a swim, it’ll be a great place to start your day of exploring!

BRISBANE: Stunning STREETS BEACH 🏖️ and South Bank Parklands, scenic views! (Australia)

Other than walking and wandering on your own time, there’s a range of unique ways to introduce yourself to this compact, fun city. Float along the Brisbane River on the CityHopper boat service – another totally free way to enjoy the city! Another fantastic service the city offers to visitors is the Walk Brisbane walking tour, or if you’re feeling game, Brisbane by Bicycle.

For those going it on their own, The Riverwalk idles its way along the Brisbane River from New Farm to the CBD and is a good jumping-off point. Stretch your legs after your long flight and explore Brisbane on foot from this picturesque riverside thoroughfare.

If you’re an art or history buff, head to the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), Queensland Museum, or the Museum of Brisbane. All offer a unique look at local life through the lens of the easel, and many showcase Aboriginal art and history, something very central to Brisbane’s identity.

Brisbane: better than you think it is - Full day itinerary sightseeing in Brisbane, Australia

Rest your feet with a bit of peace and quiet in the city’s many parks. New Farm Park, Roma Street Parkland, Brisbane City Botanic Gardens (Brisbane Botanic Gardens), South Bank Parklands, Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park, and King George Square all offer an oasis to get away from it all, a stone’s throw from the Brisbane city hall.

The shopping scene in Brisbane is fantastic, so head to the Queen Street Mall for some deals, or simply to people-watch. It’s the heart of the CBD, and where many commuters head for the daily grind.

Finish your busy first day in Brisbane with a sunset on Mt Coot-tha, one of the most loved landmarks in the city. This mountain destination, located in the west of Brisbane, offers a range of things for adults and kids to do and is totally worth a day all of its own. It offers the best lookout views over Brisbane and beyond, a range of restaurants and cafes, a long list of bushwalking and mountain biking trails, a Planetarium, and its own beautiful Botanic Gardens.

Take a good bottle of local Aussie wine, have a delicious picnic, and watch the sunset over this buzzing city.

BRISBANE ITINERARY DAY 2: ISLAND HOP, BRISBANE STYLE

Brisbane’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean means you have a chain of islands to explore at your disposal. And the best part is, they’re all totally doable as incredible Brisbane day trips. First up is arguably the favorite for many locals, North Stradbroke Island .

They call it “Straddie”, and it’s not only a great day trip but also offers accommodation offerings for all budgets to stretch your island break a little further. And you might want to because the number of activities on Stradbroke Island to tick off is massive!

There are whale and dolphin watching, picture-perfect beaches, pristine lakes, surfing (both in the water and on the sand dunes), walking trails, tours from fascinating Aboriginal guides, scuba diving, kayaking, and 4WD safaris along the beach. Straddie is a little slice of paradise a 30-minute ferry ride or 40-minute drive from Brisbane!

I personally think no visit to Brisbane is complete without spending a day exploring Stradbroke Island, so make sure you add this to your Brisbane itinerary! If you’d prefer to stay closer to the city, then consider ending your day with a blissful 1.5-hour sunset cruise on Brisbane River . It makes the perfect peaceful end of a fun day as you enjoy views of the city lights from the perspective of the water.

TOURS TO NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND

While it is possible to do this trip on your own (you’ll want to rent a car though), I’d recommend booking a tour which will take the stress out of the day. If you do want to do it on your own, you can read through this article for “How To Get to North Stradbroke Island“, and it’s filled with super helpful information!

Duration: 9 Hours
Price: $109.45 U.S.D ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )

Image via Wikipedia Commons

But Stradbroke Island isn’t Brisbane’s only stunning island.

But Stradbroke Island isn’t Brisbane’s only stunning island away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

Neighboring Bribie Island and Moreton Island are smaller sand islands accessible from Stradbroke Island and offer up the same unrivaled outdoor lifestyle and overall visitor experience.

Bribie Island is a beautiful spot to swim, sample fresh local produce, and to get a much-needed dose of that strong Queensland sunshine. There are epic bars, restaurants, beaches, and national parks, and a trip to Bribie Island is a refreshing and relaxing sojourn from the hustle and bustle of Brisbane.

Moreton Island is another Brisbane day trip boasting turquoise waters, white sand, and steep sand dunes. It’s popular with adventurous types, thanks to its many diving opportunities. Swim amongst tropical fish and explore sites like the sunken boats at Tangalooma Wrecks. If diving isn’t your thing, you can also feed dolphins or whale watch on Moreton Island, the third-largest sand island in the world! It’s an exotic getaway less than 90 minutes from the heart of Brisbane.

Bribie Island Queensland Australia - Last Day Of 2018 First Time 4x4 Beach Driving

BRISBANE ITINERARY DAY 3: EXPERIENCE BRISBANE WILDLIFE

It’s essential to carve out some time to visit the local wildlife on your trip to Brisbane, after all, it is home to a world-famous destination that brings visitors in droves.

Australia Zoo , the late Steve Irwin’s labor of love and a legacy carried on by his family is a great day trip from Brisbane. Nestled one hour north of Brisbane on the breathtaking Sunshine Coast, Australia Zoo spans over 100 acres and is a natural, humane home for over 1200 animals.

It’s an up close and personal chance to say hi to koalas, wombats, kangaroos, and other cute and cuddly Aussie animals, and the midday Wildlife Warriors Show that Steve made famous is worth a visit.

If you just can’t get enough of koalas (note, they are not bears), head to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary . It’s just a few minutes’ drive from Brisbane CBD and has the claim to fame as being the “world’s first and largest koala sanctuary.” This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to actually hold and feed these gorgeous native – and very sleepy – animals.

An insider tip? Head to their website and watch the koalas in real time thanks to their cool live stream. As I wrote this, I visited the koalas and they were sweetly cuddling while sleeping. They’ve also got a platypus camera, but they didn’t come out to say hi.

But it doesn’t end there. Brisbane has so many animal sanctuaries on its doorstep, you’ll want to take a week just to visit them all.

There’s also Daisy Hill Koala Centre, Walkabout Creek Wildlife Centre, Summer Land Camels, Ottaba Llamas, Lyell Deer Sanctuary and Try It Emu Farm. There’s a home for every type of creature, and adults, big kids and little kids alike will love it.

Brisbane animal sanctuaries are less about cramming visitors into a concrete jungle and more about caring for these animals in a comfortable, kind, and natural habitat for them.

Duration: 5.5 Hours
Price: $55.07 U.S.D ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )

Hanging Out with Koalas, Kangaroos & More // Australia

BRISBANE ITINERARY DAY 4: EXPLORE THE BRISBANE HINTERLAND

Your final day in Brisbane should definitely be spent getting back to nature and exploring the surrounding hinterland.

Queensland is an outdoor lovers’ paradise, and the Brisbane Hinterland offers up an experience you’d be crazy to pass up. Moreton Bay Hinterland is just a 90-minute drive from Brisbane and is a great day out for single travelers, couples, and families. It provides a glimpse of the many natural wonders this part of the world offers.

There are horse riding, mountain biking, and hiking opportunities across a range of trails, parks and lakes. Take a splash in a swimming hole under a real waterfall at Rocky Hole on Mt Mee – it’s nestled deep within a eucalyptus forest. There are lots of water sports on offer at Bunya Crossing Reserve Swimming Hole or hire a 4WD and head to Bellthorpe National Park.

If you’re an avid camper, there are lots of epic spots across the hinterland to set up your tent and get in touch with nature in an untouched environment. Permits are required.

The Hinterland region is also close in proximity to the Moreton Bay islands that I listed earlier, so you can access these from here.

It’s so easy and enjoyable to spend 4 days in Brisbane, but I guarantee that you’ll be so relaxed and at one with this beautiful, warm, and friendly corner of Australia, you’ll be extending your trip for sure!

MORE ITINERARY BRISBANE ACTIVITIES

If you need a Brisbane itinerary for 5 days or more, you’ll need a couple more adventures to add to your bucket list. Whether you’re visiting Brisbane for the hustle and bustle or for the beachside living, there are more fun places to explore.

STREETS BEACH

You’re probably thinking, just another beach excursion in Brisbane, right? Wrong! Streets Beach is incredibly unique because it is a man-made beach right in the city center. The tranquil blue lagoon is surrounded by white beach sand and sub-tropical plants that make it look like the ideal beach destination.

Bring your own picnic or purchase snacks at the snack stalls to enjoy a relaxing afternoon at this unique ‘beach’.

CLIMB STORY BRIDGE

Are you looking to spice up your trip with something a little more adventurous? It doesn’t get quite as spectacular as climbing the iconic Story Bridge to take in panoramic views of the city’s surroundings. Brisbane’s Story Bridge is identifiable from many places in the city, so can you imagine the views it provides?

The Story Bridge adventure climb takes 2 hours, but don’t worry. You’ll be stopping to take memorable pictures along the way to ensure this is an experience that you will never forget. You can choose to take the tour any time of day, but for beautiful views and the best lighting, venture out at sunrise or sunset.

FORTITUDE VALLEY NIGHTLIFE

There are many areas in Brisbane that can be appreciated for their buzzing nightlife, but none are quite as culturally diverse and captivating as Fortitude Valley. Whether you visit for the art scene, dining options, or the multitude of great drinking holes, there is truly something for everyone in this thriving neighborhood.

QUEENSLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

This performing arts center has made a name for itself by housing some of the best ballet performances, comedy shows, and big-name theater productions that come to Melbourne. While it could be a tricky one to coordinate if you are only in Brisbane for a short while, longer stays would be richly enhanced by a visit to this artistic marvel in Brisbane’s city center.

Before your trip, take a look at what performances are in town during your stay, as there just might be something that tickles your fancy. Your inner city experience won’t be quite the same without this culturally enriching experience while you visit Brisbane.

CENTRAL STATION

The ultimate Brisbane itinerary wouldn’t quite be complete without some iconic photo locations. The exterior of Central Station in Brisbane happens to be just that, with its old architecture and discernable clock tower.

The river city has many stunning photo locations hidden within its limits, but Central Station makes for a recognizably Brisbane photo to add to your memory box.

EAGLE STREET PIER

If you are looking to get out and stretch your legs, then taking a stroll along Eagle Street Pier is a great option. With skyscrapers to one side and the wonderful city river to the other, the juxtaposition makes for stunning views.

It’s also a great place to snap some photos of Brisbane’s CBD. It certainly does paint the city in a great light.

BRISBANE RIVERWALK

The Brisbane Riverwalk is another great place to catch some stunning river views but with a unique twist. Instead of walking along the shore of the river, you’ll actually be walking on the river with this innovative floating bridge that zig-zags across one side of the river. You’ll likely encounter runners and cyclists along the way, all hoping to make their fitness routine a little more magical with stunning Brisbane views.

If you simply want to take in the views without being a part of the hustle and bustle, then pack a picnic and choose one of the shaded areas along the walk to do some people-watching. And when you’re ready to kick your day into gear again, you’ll be close to all the action.

WHAT AM I MISSING FROM THIS BRISBANE ITINERARY…?

There’s honestly a whole lot more you could get up to while in Brisbane, but I wanted to keep this a bit shorter and sweeter and to give you a general idea of what to do while you’re in the city (and explore the nearby attractions)!

If you think I need to add any specific tour, day trip, restaurant, museum, attraction, or whatever else, please do let me know!

10 Best Things to do in Brisbane - Queensland City Guide

PLANNING A TRIP TO AUSTRALIA…?

Having lived and worked down in Australia for over a year, as well as numerous different trips down under, my website is filled with helpful travel articles, itineraries, and lots of stunning photography!

I’d love if you’d take a look through some of my favorite articles below, and feel free to reach out to me on social media if you have any questions related to travel, music festivals, photography, or anything really! :-)

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Tasmania Travel Guide + Itinerary for 4 Days

Searching for the best places to go in Tasmania ? Start your trip with a visit to Hobart and try to catch the market on Saturday, take a road-trip to Freycinet National Park , and enjoy wine tasting in Bruny Island. Don’t leave home without a visit to Mona – Museum of Old and New Art to see some brilliant art exhibitions. Here’s your guide and Tasmania Itinerary for 4 or 5 days.

Best Places to go in Tasmania, Australia: Itinerary for 4 days

Getting there: Tasmania or “Tassie” is an island located south of Melbourne, off Australia’s south coast. It’s an island with wild and beautiful landscapes, and 515,000 people call this place home. It’s Australia’s smallest state, and you can fly into Hobart or Launceston.

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Where to Stay: Book the Best Hotels in Tasmania

How to plan your trip: Tasmania Itinerary 4 or 5 Days

My friend Gen and I booked tickets from Brisbane to Tasmania two days before the trip. We both wanted to see somewhere new, get lost in nature, and since we were already in Australia, adventure was calling. We planned a four day trip to Tasmania during Autumn. Temperatures start to drop the further South you go in Australia, so we knew we had to bundle up. We picked up our car rental near the airport, and with only four full days to see the island, we set out to explore the best things to do in Tasmania on our road trip.

Related: Winter Travel Wardrobe Essentials for Cold Weather Getaways

Free Things to do in Hobart, Tasmania

TASMANIA ITINERARY DAY 1: If you fly into Hobart , the capital of Tasmania, spend some time on the harbor eating Bruny Island oysters and checking out all fishing boats, restaurants, and shops on the waterfront. If your visit includes a Saturday, make your way to the Salamanca Market to check out the locally made products. Have a coffee, shop for clothes, or try some free gin tastings or fudge samples. The market has a lot of character, and it gets busy. You can easily spend a few hours here, getting to know each vendor.

If it’s a clear day, jump in your rental car and head up to the summit of kunanyi /Mount Wellington . With an elevation of 1,271 meters, you’ll get a great view of Hobart and the ocean. There are also several walking trails and lookouts.

Check out the webcam from the Pinnacle.

What to do in Tasmania with family: Freycinet National Park

TASMANIA ITINERARY DAY 2: For locals, it may seem a bit ambitious (some might even say it’s crazy) to drive to Freycinet National Park for the day. But if you don’t have much time, it’s definitely worth the trip because it’s one of the best places to go in Tasmania. (It’s about a 2.5 hours drive from Hobart to Freycinet one way.)

The east coast of Tasmania is a beautiful scenic route, and in Autumn, it’s lovely to see all the leaves changing colors. We stopped in the town of Swansea to get a few snacks for a picnic on the beach. The family we stayed with recommended Friendly beaches , which is part of the National Park and a great place to walk around and stretch your legs after a long drive.

The road to the beach isn’t paved, but once you get to the beach, it’s as pristine as it gets.

If you keep heading south, you’ll end up near Coles Bay and Wineglass Bay. The walk to the Wineglass Bay lookout takes less than 40 minutes, but you can adventure on a long journey down to the beach if you have time. The lookout is pretty popular, but in my experience, Tasmania isn’t one of those overcrowded places with tourists everywhere (at least in Autumn.)

You can pull up to Honeymoon Bay and climb on the hard granite rock for a different perspective of the bay before you make your way to the Cape Tourville Lighthouse. It’s about a 20-minute track around the lighthouse with spectacular views of the coast. Once you’re done taking pictures, and enjoying the view, check out Sleepy Bay, which is another short walk to the beach.

Mount Field National Park

TASMANIA ITINERARY DAY 3: Just an hour’s drive from Hobart, Russell Falls should be on your list of top things to see in Tasmania. To get to and the first of many waterfalls you’ll see at Mount Field National Park. Once you park at the Visitor Center, you won’t have to walk far to see the waterfalls. You can choose to keep going (and I suggest you do) to check out Horseshoe Falls. Slow down to hear the birds chirping as you walk past giant Eucalyptus trees on the Tall Trees Walk.

Lady Barron Falls is a bit further from the first two waterfalls, but worth the view.

A second visitor section, 15 km further up the mountain, takes you to Lake Dobson and the longer day walks.

Things to do in Bruny Island

TASMANIA ITINERARY DAY 4: Bruny Island is an island off the Southeast Coast of Tasmania. To get here, you can travel via ferry with your car or take a tour bus. From Kettering , it’s a quick 15-minute ride to North Bruny Island. The island is made up of North and South islands separated by “The Neck,” a narrow isthmus. Drive to South Bruny National Park on South Island to Cape Bruny Lighthouse for some breathtaking views.

What to eat in Bruny Island:

Bruny Island Cheese Co. – If you love beer and cheese (and you know I do), you’ll want to make a quick stop here. Try Tasmanian made beer tastings for only $12 AUD.
Bruny Island Premium Wines – This is Australia’s most Southern winery. Wine Tastings are $5 AUD, and you can have lunch overlooking the vineyards.

MONA – Museum of Old and New Art

TASMANIA ITINERARY DAY 5: It’s almost better to go into MONA , not knowing what to expect when you walk into the museum. The $28 AUD ticket gives you access to the three floors filled with Old and New Art and random pieces that will leave you asking, “what did I just see?” There is a great element of surprise and several interactive installations like the one where you can throw glass bottles against a wall. Take a break at the café, have a drink at the bar, or explore some of the outdoor art.

Getting to this Tasmania attraction: You can drive to the museum or take a ferry.

If you have limited time to spend on Tasmania, you can squeeze in a visit to MONA on Day 3, after Russell Falls.

Planning a trip to Australia? Bookmark this Tasmania Itinerary for 4 days and list of the best places to go in Tasmania before your trip.

(We stayed with a beautiful family in Hobart that we met on Couchsurfing. Thank you to the Prichard family for welcoming us into your home and for all the recommendations. Our visit to Tassie was truly AMAZING because of you guys!)

Next on the Tassie bucket list – Cradle Mountain!

What’s on your Tasmania sightseeing list?

+ Sign up for my newsletter to get destination + adventure guides, packing tips, and inspiration for your bucket list.

Keep Exploring:

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Fairy Pools Noosa – How To Find + Best Time to Visit

1 thought on “Tasmania Travel Guide + Itinerary for 4 Days”

Mahalo for sharing these pictures Alejandra. I want to see these places in person one day.

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The Best 4-Day Adelaide Itinerary: A Local’s Guide

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Are you looking for an exciting 4-day Adelaide itinerary? With four days to explore this vibrant city, you’ll have plenty of time to experience its unique culture, beautiful scenery, and exciting attractions. With wine-tasting tours in the Barossa Valley and breathtaking views from the Willunga Hill Lookout, it’s no surprise that Australia’s 5th largest city has been generating a lot of excitement. Here is the perfect guide to your 4 days of exploring everything Adelaide has to offer .

Get ready for a jam-packed itinerary that will make your four days in Adelaide filled with adventure!

🔍 Table of Contents

The 4-Day Adelaide Itinerary

In this four-day itinerary, we’ll guide you through some of the city’s best offerings, from exploring historic neighbourhoods and sampling local cuisine to discovering the natural wonders of the region.

So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful Australian city.

Day 1: Explore the city’s cultural attractions

Start your first day in Adelaide by exploring the city. Begin with a visit to the Adelaide Central Market, one of the largest fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere.

Here you can taste the best of South Australia’s produce, including cheese, meat, vegetables and seafood.

Next, visit the South Australian Museum, where you can learn about the natural history and culture of the region.

The museum is home to the largest collection of Aboriginal artifacts, fascinating fossils, minerals, and animals.

Take a stroll along North Terrace and admire the beautiful architecture of the city’s cultural institutions.

This includes the Art Gallery of South Australia, Parliament House and the State Library of South Australia.

The Art Gallery of South Australia houses a large collection of artworks including paintings by Australian masters like Sidney Nolan or Russell Drysdale.

Visit Adelaide Botanic Garden which is located on the North Terrace or take a stroll along Rundle Mall or head to Rundle Street in the East End, where you’ll find a plethora of restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Things to Do in Adelaide CBD

1. roofclimb adelaide oval.

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 150 positive reviews!

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours

Opt for a unique excursion by climbing to the roof of Adelaide Oval! Before beginning, attend a safety briefing and put on your suit and harness.

Your guide will lead you across a link bridge to an open viewing deck, where you will have the opportunity to walk along a lean-out point that extends 164 feet (50 meters) above the Oval’s cricket field.

An amazing experience from start to finish. Our guide was great, and we felt very safe. As seniors, we hoped we could keep up, but had no problems. Luckily it was a cool day, as it might have been a bit harder if it was hot. We thought this was a highlight of our trip to Adelaide. -grahame (see more reviews)

Enjoy unparalleled views of Adelaide from this vantage point. With nine daily departure times available, you can easily schedule this experience into your day.

2. Cruise The River Torrens

Adelaide, Australia - April 14, 2017: Iconic Pop-Eye boat traveling upstream Torrens river in Adelaide CBD on a bright day

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 40-50 minutes

The cruise will start by heading towards the Torrens River Weir Gate, passing by Adelaide Festival Centre, SAHMRI, and Adelaide Gaol while the captain provides commentary about the local area and wider South Australia for 30 minutes.

Views were beautiful and learnt some history of Adelaide. Staff were super friendly. Recommend to take a picnic to enjoy afterwards along the riverbank -michaela (see more reviews)

Upon arrival at Adelaide Zoo, passengers can choose to disembark and explore the zoo, Botanic Garden, and surrounding areas.

The last 15 minutes of the tour will be relaxed, offering the opportunity to ask questions, take photos with the crew, and receive suggestions on what to do and see after disembarking.

3. Adelaide Ghost Tour

⭐ RATING: 4 out of 5 stars – With more than 30 positive reviews!

Experience the longest continuously operating gaol in Australia and immerse yourself in its dark history. Encounter the ghost of Governor Ashton, who allegedly had his body thrown through a window, learn about Sister Mary MacKillop’s connection with the gaol, and feel the presence of South Australia’s most infamous killer who still roams the halls.

Made some sort of contact using the investigation tools. After years of wondering, I truly believe last night I had an experience. Was a surreal experience. -sean (see more reviews)

The gaol has witnessed 45 hangings and has a burial site called Murderer’s Row, which is now home to more than 12 spirits. Your evening will consist of a guided ghost tour, where you will have the chance to communicate with the paranormal using investigation tools.

Day 2: Discover Adelaide’s food and wine scene

On day two, take a day trip to the Adelaide Hills, located just a short drive from the city.

The Adelaide Hills is recognized as one of Australia’s foremost wine regions , primarily due to its production of distinguished wines.

Specifically, the region is celebrated for producing notable varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.

Start your day with a visit to the historic town of Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement.

Here you can stroll through the charming streets and sample German sausages, beers, and pastries. If you are not interested in wine, you can escape into nature at Cleland Wildlife Park located on the edge of Mount Lofty Ranges in the Adelaide Hills.

Here, you can get up close with many native Australian animals like dingos, emus and much more! There are daily shows featuring snakes and lizards plus guided tours by keepers who will share interesting facts about each species.

Things to Do in Adelaide Hills

1. hop-on hop-off tour.

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars – With more than 60 positive reviews!

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours

Discover the flavours of the Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf with a full-day winery tour that allows you to hop on and off at your leisure.

Board a comfortable, climate-controlled bus and embark on a scenic journey through the hills, stopping at 8-10 wineries along the way.

Great tour for visiting the area. Easy pickup and drop offs. Driver also provided useful history and facts on the locations visited -michael (see more reviews)

The entire circuit takes approximately one hour to complete.

Take your time exploring the historic township of Hahndorf and indulge in wine and food tastings at any of the selected stops.

Throughout the day, sample specialty wines of the region, such as shiraz and rosé, while learning about their unique characteristics.

2. Cleland Wildlife Park Experience

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours and 30 minutes

Experience Australia’s iconic wildlife on a day trip from Adelaide to Cleland Wildlife Park in the Adelaide Hills.

Get up close and personal with kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies while under the supervision of knowledgeable staff.

Feed these friendly creatures and learn about their unique characteristics. Observe other fascinating animals such as wombats, emus, dingos, and Tasmanian devils.

After the wildlife park visit, head to the summit of Mt. Lofty for breathtaking panoramic views and photo opportunities.

A lovely day out had by all (group of 5) Family came over from Scotland & they got to see all our Aussie animals. Koalas, Emus, Kangaroos, Dingos etc & even two snakes! They also loved the views from Mt Lofty Summit. -valerie (see more reviews)

This small-group tour, limited to just 13 participants, ensures a personalized experience.

All entrance fees are included, and pickup and drop-off from Adelaide City hotels are provided for your convenience.

Don’t miss this chance to meet some of Australia’s most beloved native animals on this unforgettable tour.

Day 3: Beach Day Please!

On day three, head to the beach and soak up some sun. Adelaide has a number of beautiful beaches, including Glenelg, Semaphore, and Henley Beach.

Glenelg is the most popular beach and is easily accessible by tram from the city.

Here you can stroll along the Jetty Road shopping strip, take a dip in the ocean, or enjoy a drink at one of the beachfront bars.

For a quieter beach experience, head to Semaphore or Henley Beach. Semaphore is a family-friendly beach with a playground and picnic areas.

On the other hand, Henley Beach has a long jetty and a promenade with a range of restaurants and cafes.

Things to Do in Glenelg

1. sunset cruise.

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Take in the stunning sunset views of Adelaide’s coastline from the comfort of a catamaran on this relaxing cruise departing from Glenelg’s Marina Pier.

Enjoy a drink in your hand as you sail off into the horizon, admiring the golden waves as the sun sets over the ocean.

Great trip perfect hosts perfect timing great memories sunset was awesome drinks available on the cruise topped off a great evening -mark (see more reviews)

As darkness descends, the city skyline comes to life with twinkling lights, creating a beautiful backdrop for your return trip back to shore.

This twilight sightseeing tour offers a perfect opportunity to unwind and appreciate the scenic beauty of Adelaide’s coastline.

Wander through Glenelg’s Marina Pier, known for its waterside dining, before or after your cruise to complete your evening out.

2. Dolphin Cruise

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars – With more than 250 positive reviews!

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours

Embark on a thrilling dolphin-spotting adventure on a 3.5-hour cruise from Glenelg, a charming seaside town located south of Adelaide.

Hop aboard a comfortable catamaran and sail across the tranquil waters of Holdfast Bay in search of the thousands of dolphins that call these waters their home.

Had a great time. The crew were well organised, knowledgeable and friendly. It was amazing seeing pods of dolphins up close in their natural habitat 👍 -janet (see more reviews)

With onboard commentary and a safety briefing, you’ll have all the information you need to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Wetsuits, snorkels, masks, and other equipment are provided to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness the playful antics of wild dolphins up close!

Day 4: Explore the Fleurieu Peninsula

On your last day, take a day trip to the Fleurieu Peninsula – a stunning region of a rugged coastline, rolling hills, and vineyards.

Begin your day by visiting the McLaren Vale wine region, known for producing some of Australia’s best Shiraz wines.

The region is home to over 80 cellar doors, making it a wine-lovers paradise.

Next, head to the seaside town of Port Elliot, where you can explore the local beaches, visit the historic railway station, and stroll along the coastal walk.

Finish your day with a visit to the charming town of Willunga which has a thriving food scene.

Held every Saturday morning, the Farmer’s Market is a great place to sample the region’s fresh produce.

Things to Do in Mclaren Vale

1. wine blending.

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars – With more than 15 positive reviews!

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour and 30 minutes

At d’Arenberg winery in McLaren Vale, learn how to blend wine during a class.

You’ll have the opportunity to choose from various wines and create your unique blend, with the guidance of an expert staff member who will help you balance the flavours.

Our facilitator, Kim, was knowledgeable, fun, complimentary and generally made the blending experience fun! Who knew how hard it would be to blend three nice wines into one great wine? -rosemary (see more reviews)

At the end of the 90-minute session, take home a bottle of your blended wine to share with friends.

Discover the art of wine blending and create your unique wine blend during the class. Bring home a bottle of your wine creation.

2. Gin Masterclass

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 5 positive reviews!

Experience the Premium Gin Masterclass at the scenic Never Never Distilling Co. distillery door located in McLaren Vale, South Australia.

This fully-guided tour and tasting experience is led by one of our expert gin connoisseurs.

What an incredible experience learning about these amazing Gins!!! Delicious drinks with friendly knowledgable service. And THAT VIEW!!! What a beautfiul part of the world. -Tripadvisor reviewer (see more reviews)

Discover the rich history of our brand and embark on a personalized tour of our production facility where our Triple Juniper Gin is crafted.

Immerse yourself in a detailed tasting of our core range of products and indulge in a sampling of seasonal releases expertly crafted by our skilled bar team.

As a special treat, you get to take home an exclusive Never Never Distilling Co. goody bag valued at $70.

Where to Stay in Adelaide?

We’ll highlight some of the best areas to stay in Adelaide based on your interests and needs, whether you’re looking for a central location, a beachside retreat, or a peaceful oasis.

So read on and discover the perfect place to rest your head during your stay in this beautiful city.

1. The Franklin Boutique Hotel

⭐ Rating: 8.8 out of 10
🏆 Known for: Location, mini bar
🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com

For those seeking a complete experience, The Franklin Hotel, established in 1855, is a perfect choice.

This beautiful establishment consists of a charming pub on the ground floor, and a small boutique hotel on the upper level, offering guests the best of both worlds.

The room was beautiful and spacious, and the staff were extremely friendly and helpful. -ariane (see more reviews)

The Franklin Boutique Hotel Adelaide is situated in the heart of the city, providing guests with free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and a bar.

Upon arrival, guests are offered complimentary snacks in their rooms. Each room is equipped with a smart TV and a Nespresso coffee machine.

Located across from the bus terminal, Franklin Hotel is just an eight-minute drive from the Rundle Mall shopping precinct.

The Art Gallery of South Australia and Adelaide Zoo are both within a 15-minute drive.

Looking for luxury accommodations? Check out my article on the 9 Best Luxury Hotels in Adelaide.

2. Miller Apartments

⭐ Rating: 8.6 out of 10
🏆 Known for: Location, family rooms, 24-hour front desk

Located just a few meters from Adelaide’s renowned Rundle Mall, the award-winning Miller Apartments offer stylish and fully self-contained accommodation, along with friendly service.

Guests can enjoy unlimited free WiFi and a range of amenities, including fully equipped kitchens, separate living areas, cable TV, writing desks, and individually controlled air conditioning.

Location, location location. We were able to walk to Rundle mall, Sky city and bus and tram stops to visit many attractions including Adelaide fringe festival, Adelaide oval and art Gallery. -christine (see more reviews)

The apartments feature a well-equipped fitness room and secure on-site parking. For added convenience, daily apartment servicing is provided.

The apartments are situated for exploring Adelaide’s notable attractions like Adelaide Oval, Adelaide Convention Centre and Rundle Mall.

3. Adelaide Rockford

⭐ Rating: 8.2 out of 10
🏆 Known for: Location, outdoor swimming pool, good breakfast

Adelaide Rockford is situated in the heart of Adelaide, just 300 meters from the Adelaide Convention Centre.

The property offers guests a range of amenities, including express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi throughout the property, and a shared lounge.

Loved the location so close to everything. Rooms were huge and lots of room to relax. Staff were very friendly and helpful. -michelle (see more reviews)

All guest rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk.

Some rooms feature a kitchen with a dishwasher, microwave, and stovetop. All rooms have a private bathroom with free toiletries and bed linen provided. Adelaide Rockford is conveniently located near popular attractions, including the Art Gallery of South Australia, Rundle Mall, and the Beehive Corner Building.

The nearest airport is Adelaide Airport, just 5 km from the hotel.

Adelaide Itinerary FAQs

What is the best month to visit adelaide.

The summer months of December to February are the peak season in Adelaide, with warm and sunny weather perfect for outdoor activities like visiting the beach, cycling, or exploring the city’s parklands.

If you prefer cooler temperatures, then the months of March to May and September to November are great options.

Is Glenelg worth a visit?

Yes, Glenelg is definitely worth a visit!

It is known for its beautiful beach, historic buildings, lively cafes and restaurants, and a wide range of attractions that cater to all ages and interests.

Conclusion: 4 Days Adelaide Itinerary

Adelaide is a fantastic destination with a rich cultural heritage, delicious food and wine scene, and stunning natural beauty. This 4-day itinerary offers a taste of everything that Adelaide and its surrounding regions have to offer, from exploring the city’s museums and markets to tasting the best of South Australian wine and food.

With its diverse attractions and welcoming atmosphere, Adelaide is a must-visit destination for any traveller.

Money blog: What makes up the cost of a £6 pint - and how much is profit?

The cost of draught lager has gone up nearly 30% since January 2019, according to the Office for National Statistics. Read this and more in the Money blog, your place for personal finance news. Leave a comment on stories we've covered, or a question for our experts, in the form below.

Thursday 4 April 2024 13:21, UK

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Ask a question or make a comment

Ted Baker is the latest in a string of high-street giants to call in administrators in recent years.

But how does it affect you?

Let's use Ted Baker as an example.

Purchases and returns

You can still purchase online or walk into a Ted Baker shop and buy items, but you could run into trouble returning them.

If the retailer stops trading, it may not be able to get your money back to you.

If that is the case, you would have to file a claim with Teneo (Ted Baker's administrator) to join a list of creditors owed money by Ted Baker – and even then there's no guarantee you'd get your money back.

You could also file a claim with your debit or credit card provider - but again, no guarantees.

TL;DR: If you have one - use it as soon as possible.

Teneo has made no changes to the way gift cards can be used at Ted Baker, but as is the case with all administrators, it can change the terms and conditions at will.

As above, if you lose out on cash because of a company going into administration, you can raise it with the administrators themselves.

Credits and debits

As we mentioned earlier, you can file a claim with your debit or credit card provider to recover lost funds - but how exactly does that work?

Credit card: If you bought any single item costing between £100-£30,000 and paid on a credit card, the card firm is liable if something goes wrong. If any purchase was less than £100, you may still be able to get your money back via chargeback
Debit card: Under chargeback, your bank can try to get your money back from Ted Baker's bank. However, be aware that this is not a legal requirement and it can later be disputed and recalled back to Ted Baker's bank

A US state is considering a bill giving employees the right not to respond to calls, emails and texts from their bosses outside of paid work hours.

The so-called "right to disconnect" would allow California's labour commission to fine employers for interrupting personal time, reports our partner network NBC News.

The bill makes exceptions for emergencies, scheduling and collective bargaining.

The state's Chamber of Commerce called the proposed legislation a step backwards for flexibility.

However, Professor Amira Barger told NBC the changes would help tackle an "epidemic of burnout" and were a "necessary adaptation" for the future of work.

The planned £15bn mega-merger of UK mobile networks Vodafone and Three is to face an in-depth investigation by the competition watchdog.

The Competition and Markets Authority confirmed it will launch a so-called Phase 2 probe after both firms told the regulator they would not be offering measures to ease its concerns ahead of the deadline, 2 April.

The CMA said last month that the tie-up could have a "substantial" impact on competition, warning it may lead to higher prices and reduced quality.

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Day 2 - Visiting Sydney's most iconic landmarks - the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Sydney DIY walking tour. Sydney Harbour at night. Day 3 - A day trip to Manly - one of Sydney's most popular suburbs and surfing spots. Day 4 - Visiting Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach. Summary.
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As Australia's oldest and largest city, Sydney is one of the best-known Australian cities nationally and worldwide. ... In this article, I have put together a detailed 4-day itinerary for visiting Sydney, ... The Ultimate GOR Day Trip 7-Day Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary via the Great Ocean Road Wollongong 1-Day Itinerary ...
The Perfect 4-Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary (Self-Drive)
4-Day Itinerary For Great Ocean Road - Self Drive. Day 1: Melbourne to Torquay (101KM - 1h 17m) Day 2: Torquay To Apollo Bay (94KM - 1h 38m) Day 3: Apollo Bay To Port Campbell (97KM - 1h 27m) Day 4: Port Campbell To Portland (159km - 1h 55m) Great Ocean Road Trip Tips. Great Ocean Road Accommodation. Where We Stayed: Our Preferred ...
4 Days in Melbourne: The Ultimate Melbourne Itinerary
Day 1: Melbourne CBD. For the first day of this 4-Day Melbourne visit, we are going to explore Melbourne CBD, get acquainted with many famous Melbourne landmarks, taste the amazing food Melbourne has to offer, and experience Melbourne's laneway culture. Here is a list of must-visit attractions in Melbourne CBD.
The Perfect 4-Day Sydney Itinerary for 2024
Sydney Skyline. In our 4 days 3 nights Sydney itinerary, we will cover the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, a visit to Manly on the Manly Ferry, wandering the historical Rocks area, Darling Harbour, Bondi Beach and Taronga Park Zoo. These are the most popular hot spots that all visitors dream of when travelling to Sydney.
4 Days in Cairns Itinerary + Travel Guide 2024
Things to do in Cairns in 4 days. Cairns 4 day itinerary. Day 1 in Cairns - Exploring Cairns City. Cairns Aquarium. Cairns Botanic Gardens. Cairns Museum. Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome. Cairns Night Market. Day 2 in Cairns - Great Barrier Reef outer reef trip.
4 DAYS IN SYDNEY
Sydney is with no doubts an unavoidable destination in any Australian travel itinerary. In our collective imagination places like the Opera House, the golden sandy beaches full of surfers, and the Harbour Bay are amongst the most symbolic in Australia. That's why you need minimum 4 days to visit the capital of New South Wales, located in the southeast of Australia.
The PERFECT Melbourne Itinerary for 4 to 7 Days
Melbourne Itinerary Day 2: Sporting Tours & A Culture In Spades. Today you're hopefully feeling fresher and with endless energy to make the most of your time in this vibrant city tackling this 4-day Melbourne itinerary. You've sampled some gold-star food and coffee, but now it's time for sports lovers to get excited.
The perfect Sydney itinerary for 4 days
Having spent 3 days exploring the city, it makes total sense to rent a car on Day 4 and head out to explore the outskirts of Sydney. The Blue Mountains and Jenolan Caves make for a very popular road trip from Sydney. If you do not plan to rent a car, you could either book a day trip through a tour agency or take a train from Sydney's Central ...
4 days in Cairns
Guide to the Daintree Rainforest. A forest so spectacular, Sir David Attenborough called it "the most extraordinary place on Earth.". Read time • 4min. Explore the best of Cairns in four days. Visit the incredible Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda, Port Douglas, Daintree Rainforest and more.
BRISBANE ITINERARY
Spending at least 4 days in Brisbane is super easy, thanks to an epic range of activities to do, sights to see, natural wonders to take in, and beaches to swim at. Not to mention the easygoing Queensland lifestyle to get wrapped up in. But if you are able to spend 5 days in Brisbane or more, the longer, the better.
Tasmania Itinerary 4 days: Must-see Waterfalls and Beaches
How to plan your trip: Tasmania Itinerary 4 or 5 Days . My friend Gen and I booked tickets from Brisbane to Tasmania two days before the trip. We both wanted to see somewhere new, get lost in nature, and since we were already in Australia, adventure was calling. We planned a four day trip to Tasmania during Autumn.
The Best 4-Day Adelaide Itinerary: A Local's Guide
Day 4: Explore the Fleurieu Peninsula. On your last day, take a day trip to the Fleurieu Peninsula - a stunning region of a rugged coastline, rolling hills, and vineyards. Begin your day by visiting the McLaren Vale wine region, known for producing some of Australia's best Shiraz wines.
Money blog: What makes up the cost of a £6 pint
The ONS says the cost of the average pint in Britain is £4.70 (it was £3.67 in January 2019), but many pubs frequently sell beers for over £5, £6 or even £7 in cities like London, Edinburgh ...