Top Places to Visit in Australia for Your Next Holiday

Australia is a dream destination. From lively cities like Sydney and Melbourne to the coastline of the Gold Coast and awe-inspiring natural wonders from Uluru to the Great Barrier Reef. There’s something for everyone in the Great Southern Land.

Let this guide inspire your next journey through Australia’s most iconic cities, coastal retreats, and natural wonders.

From Sydney’s famous landmarks to Melbourne’s artistic laneways, these Aussie cities promise unforgettable experiences.

Known as Australia’s gateway city, Sydney dazzles visitors with its iconic skyline, harbour views, and popular beaches.

Sydney is home to globally recognised landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, both offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences... like the epic BridgeClimb.

Beyond the landmarks, visitors can explore The Rocks with its cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and lively weekend markets. The city’s beaches, from Bondi Beach to Manly Beach, are ideal for surfing, relaxing on the sand, or enjoying scenic coastal walks.

Top Activities in Sydney:

• Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge or walk across it for panoramic views.

• Take a ferry to Manly Beach or hike the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk.

• Relax at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney with stunning views of the harbour.

• Discover native Australian wildlife at Taronga Zoo.

Where to Stay in Sydney:

• For harbour views: Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour

• For boutique charm: Hotel Morris Sydney or The Porter House Hotel Sydney – MGallery Collection

• For a budget-friendly option: ibis Styles Sydney Central

Renowned as being Australia’s cultural capital, Melbourne is a city that thrives on creativity, dining, and events... all powered by some of the best coffee you'll ever taste in your life.

Melbourne will charm you with its street art, hidden cafes, and laneways like Hosier Lane. The city’s world-class museums, galleries, and sporting events make it a hub of activity. Its proximity to the Yarra Valley wine region and the Great Ocean Road also makes it a fantastic base for day trips.

Top Activities in Melbourne:

• Admire street art in Melbourne’s famous laneways.
• Visit the National Gallery of Victoria or catch a cricket match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
• Immerse yourself in the city’s renowned coffee culture.
• Take a day trip to Phillip Island for the penguin parade or explore the Dandenong Ranges.

Where to Stay in Melbourne:

• For stylish luxury: Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer

• For Yarra River views: Quay West Suites Melbourne

• For a central location: Novotel Melbourne on Collins

• For a budget-friendly stay: ibis Melbourne Central

Australia’s coastline is legendary, offering sun-drenched beaches, seaside towns, and unforgettable road trips.

The Gold Coast is a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers, boasting golden sands, nightlife, and family-friendly attractions.

The Gold Coast’s iconic beaches, including Surfers Paradise and Burleigh Heads, attract sun-seekers and surfers alike. Beyond the beaches, the region offers lush hinterlands, national parks, and thrilling theme parks including Dreamworld, Sea World, and Warner Bros. Movie World.

Top Activities on the Gold Coast:

• Relax or learn to surf at Surfers Paradise Beach.
• Explore Springbrook National Park for its waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.
• Enjoy shopping at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre or the bustling Carrara Markets.
• Experience the nightlife at Broadbeach or take a gondola ride on the waterways.

Where to Stay on the Gold Coast:

• For an eco-certified beachside stay: Novotel Surfers Paradise

• For families: Mantra Circle on Cavill

• For premium luxury: Peppers Soul

The Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, offers dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests.

The drive’s highlight is the Twelve Apostles, towering limestone formations rising from the ocean. Along the way, you can explore charming towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, as well as the stunning Great Otway National Park.

Top Activities on the Great Ocean Road:

• Marvel at the Twelve Apostles from a viewing platform or during a helicopter ride.
• Discover waterfalls and ancient rainforests in Great Otway National Park.
• Spot koalas in their natural habitat.

Where to Stay on the Great Ocean Road:

• For coastal tranquillity: Mantra Lorne

• Alternatively, stay in Melbourne and visit the Great Ocean Road on a day trip.

Australia’s natural wonders are unmatched, featuring unique landscapes, and wildlife found nowhere else on Earth.

Deep in Australia’s Red Centre, Uluru is a sacred site for the Anangu people and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The sandstone monolith’s colours shift throughout the day, especially at sunrise and sunset. Nearby, the Kata Tjuta rock formations offer equally breathtaking landscapes.

Top Activities at Uluru:

• Join a guided tour to learn about Aboriginal culture.

• Walk or cycle the Uluru Base Trail.

• Experience the magical Field of Light art installation.

Where to Stay Near Uluru:

• For apartment-style accommodation: Emu Walk Apartments

• For premium stays: Sails in the Desert

• For budget-friendly accommodation: Outback Hotel & Lodge

As the world’s largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef is a bucket-list destination for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.

This underwater paradise is home to coral, tropical fish, and marine creatures like sea turtles and manta rays.

Top Activities at the Great Barrier Reef:

• Snorkel or dive to explore the reef’s marine life.
• Take a scenic flight for aerial views of the reef.
• Visit nearby islands such as Green Island or Fitzroy Island.

Where to Stay Near the Great Barrier Reef:

• In Cairns: Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort for a family-friendly stay, or Pullman Cairns International for a touch of luxury.

• In Port Douglas: Peppers Beach Club for casual elegance within walking distance of the beach, or Mantra PortSea Port Douglas for a resort with apartment-style accommodation.

Nestled in Tasmania, Cradle Mountain is a haven for hikers and those who appreciate a scenic alpine landscape. Part of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, this area features glacial lakes, ancient rainforests, and diverse wildlife.

Top Activities at Cradle Mountain:

• Hike the Dove Lake Circuit or the challenging Overland Track.
• Spot wildlife such as wombats, wallabies, and Tasmanian devils.
• Enjoy the alpine landscapes.

Where to Stay at Cradle Mountain:

• For luxurious tranquillity: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

If you love exploring hidden gems, Australia offers equally captivating lesser-known destinations.

Located in South Australia, the Barossa Valley is a picturesque wine region perfect for gourmet travellers. Appreciate a great red wine? Don't miss the Barossa! The region boasts world-class wineries, charming villages, and unforgettable dining experiences.

Top Activities in the Barossa Valley:

• Visit renowned wineries including Penfolds and Jacob’s Creek.
• Explore the towns of Tanunda and Angaston.
• Take a hot air balloon ride for panoramic vineyard views.

Where to Stay in the Barossa Valley:

• Surrounded by vineyards: Novotel Barossa Valley Resort

In Western Australia, Bunker Bay offers a quiet beach escape. Its crystal-clear waters and proximity to the Margaret River wine region make it a perfect spot for relaxation.

Top Activities in Bunker Bay:

• Unwind on the Bunker Bay Beach.
• Tour the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse for stunning views.
• Explore wineries in the Margaret River region.

Where to Stay in Bunker Bay:

• For a luxurious retreat: Pullman Bunker Bay Resort Margaret River

Whether you’re exploring Sydney’s landmarks, driving along the Great Ocean Road, or marvelling at Uluru’s red hues, every corner of this vast country promises adventure and inspiration.