Finding the best places to visit in Australia can be challenging, but I have gathered information to help make your decisions easier.
The country is vast, and its stunning attractions are throughout the continent.
Australia is divided into six states and two territories, each offering travellers a wide range of unique tourist attractions.
Recommended must-visit places in Australia
Choosing a specific state or coast may be beneficial when planning a trip to explore the top Australian holiday destinations. From there, you can either fully explore that state or take domestic flights to visit other parts of the country.
Alternatively, you can consider renting a car or campervan to embark on a road trip.
This article provides information on the different regions of Australia, which may inspire readers to explore one or multiple areas.
Here are some recommended places to visit in Australia.
Melbourne
Some travelers, including Australians, consider Melbourne to be their preferred city.
Due to its southern location, Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, experiences colder temperatures compared to other cities in Australia.
However, it compensates for its lack of warmth and sunshine with its abundance of art, culture, cuisine, architecture, and entertainment.
Melbourne is renowned for its trendy cafes, art galleries, vibrant nightlife, and diverse restaurants.
Visitors can indulge in high-quality coffee, explore vibrant street art, and savour cocktails from rooftop bars with stunning city views.
Embark on a day trip to the stunning Phillip Island
Embarking on a Phillip Island day tour, just a short 90-minute journey from Melbourne, presents an ideal opportunity to explore one of Victoria’s most sought-after destinations. This scenic island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting an array of wildlife, such as penguins, koalas, wallabies, and seals.
The island’s allure is enhanced by its varied landscapes, offering numerous walking trails, serene beaches, and lookouts. These spots provide stunning vistas, further complemented by the option of affordable helicopter tours. Phillip Island tours not only showcase natural wonders but also feature the iconic Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. This circuit is renowned for hosting major motor racing events, including the prestigious Australian MotoGP. Additionally, the island is home to unique attractions like the A-Maze-N-Things theme park, the delectable Chocolate Factory, and the Maru Koala & Animal Park.
A highlight of any Phillip Island adventure is the enchanting Penguin Parade. Each evening, many charming little penguins (aptly named for their scientific classification and petite size) return to shore, settling into their burrows for the night. Visitors are advised to bring a jumper, as the seaside breeze can be brisk, even on warmer nights.
A guided Phillip Island tour is the perfect solution for those who prefer a more structured experience without the hassle of driving or planning. These tours are designed to ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable visit, covering all the major attractions and leaving no stone unturned in exploring the island’s beauty.
Wine tasting in the Yarra Valley
Inner-city gourmets regularly venture to locales like Chinatown, Carlton’s Little Italy, Fitzroy’s Brunswick Street, and Chapel Street in South Yarra for their diverse international flavours. However, the authentic essence of Melbourne’s culinary delights truly shines in the Yarra Valley wine tours, which are merely a brief drive to the city’s east.
Esteemed globally, this wine paradise boasts over 80 wineries. Additionally, it’s sprinkled with cider houses, breweries, and distilleries catering to those who savour a fruitier touch in their alcoholic beverages.
Yarra Valley’s allure extends beyond its alcoholic offerings. The region is a treasure trove of gourmet experiences. Here, you can indulge in berry picking at an organic farm or relish a lavish degustation meal at one of the valley’s numerous award-winning restaurants.
Yarra Valley offers a wealth of picturesque walking and biking routes for those keen on balancing indulgence with activity. Adventure seekers can elevate their experience with hot air balloon rides or helicopter tours, ideal for those unafraid of heights.
Undoubtedly, guided tours are the most immersive way to soak in the stunning and flavorful landscape of the Yarra Valley. These can be either comprehensive food tours or specialized wine tastings. Opting for a tour means no concerns about driving, gaining expert insights into your tastings, and the chance to either enjoy a private experience or bond with new acquaintances in small group settings.
Karajini National Park
Karajini National Park, located in Western Australia, is a popular destination for adventurous travelers and is considered one of Australia’s best places to visit.
This expansive wilderness is filled with natural beauty and various outdoor activities.
Visitors can enjoy swimming in the Fern Pool, photographing Fortescue Falls, hiking Mount Bruce, and attempting to spot indigenous wildlife.
The park is well-known for its gorges and canyons, which have swirling rock patterns that are highly photogenic.
Karajini National Park is known for its famous gorges, such as Hamersley Gorge, Joffre Gorge, Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge, and Dales Gorge.
Ningaloo Reef
Ningaloo Reef, located near Exmouth in Western Australia, is a global destination for whale shark sightings.
Every year, large and gentle creatures gather around Ningaloo Reef to feed. Travellers can book tours and engage in snorkeling and swimming alongside these creatures.
This location in Australia is highly recommended for those interested in marine life.
The Whitsundays
The Whitsundays is considered one of the most beautiful places in Australia, making it a perfect destination for those who dream of an island paradise.
The Whitsundays Islands are situated on the east coast of Queensland and consist of over 70 islands. They are known for their beautiful beaches and diverse marine life.
Many of the islands in the Whitsundays are uninhabited, and most tourists opt to stay in Airlie Beach, the main tourist town.
Airlie Beach, Whitehaven Beach, and Hamilton Island’s beaches offer stunning views in the area.
The scenery of the Great Barrier Reef consists of sparkling white sand, palm trees, and turquoise water, while the surrounding oceans are filled with wildlife.
Typical activities in the Whitsunday Islands include snorkeling or diving in the reef, sailing around the islands, and taking a helicopter ride over the heart-shaped reef for an aerial view.
Darwin
Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory, is a city rich in history.
Darwin has several museums and galleries, including the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, which exhibit art and technology from the Pacific.
Many travelers use the city of Darwin as a gateway to nearby places like Litchfield National Park and Kakadu National Park, as they can be explored in just a couple of days.
The Snowy Mountains
Australia is not typically known for skiing and snowboarding, but the Snowy Mountains offer excellent opportunities for those interested in winter sports.
The Snowy Mountains span southern New South Wales and northeastern Victoria, featuring jagged peaks, local wildlife, and several high-quality ski resorts.
The highest mountain range in mainland Australia is home to the country’s tallest mountain, Mount Kosciuszko.
During the summer months of December, January, and February, visitors come to Kosciuszko National Park for hiking and observing wildlife.
During the winter months of June, July, and August, the mountains accumulate fresh snow, creating ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
Thredbo is a well-known ski resort situated at the base of Mount Kosciuszko.
The Sydney
If you are considering destinations in Australia, your journey will likely start in Sydney.
Sydney is Australia’s central travel hub with numerous top tourist attractions.
The downtown area is densely populated with skyscrapers and experiences heavy traffic, while the waterfront area offers a more enchanting ambience.
Sydney Harbour is known for its iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, the Botanic Gardens, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which are highly recommended for visitors.
You can take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly and enjoy the beautiful Sydney beaches, or take the bus east to the famous Bondi Beach, Coogee, and Bronte.
Esperance Western Australia
To find a beautiful combination of turquoise water and white sand while exploring Australia, visit Esperance.
This coastal town is known for its numerous beautiful beaches, such as West Beach, Blue Haven Beach, Lovers Beach, and Fourth Beach.
Cape Le Grand National Park is known for its natural beauty, including fields of wildflowers, secluded beaches, and abundant native Australian wildlife.
Additional nearby attractions include Lake Hillier, a renowned pink lake, and the Recherche Archipelago, home to seals and sea lions coexisting harmoniously.
The Daintree Rainforest
If you are in tropical north Queensland, consider stopping in the Daintree Rainforest.
This is considered to be one of the top attractions in Australia.
The tropical rainforest is considered the oldest in the world, and visiting this part of the country provides a unique experience that transports you to a different era.
The Daintree Rainforest is known for its lush vegetation, diverse wildlife, and beautiful beaches, giving it an otherworldly feel.
The Tasmania
Tasmania, an island off the southeast coast of Australia, is considered one of Australia’s most beautiful and wild places to visit.
Tasmania is known for its clean air, local produce, national parks, nature reserves, and natural beauty.
The Bay of Fires, Cradle Mountain, and the granite peaks of Freycinet National Park are highly regarded natural attractions for travellers.
Tasmania offers numerous hiking opportunities for fitness enthusiasts, including the challenging and scenic 6-Day Overland Track.
Hobart, the capital city, is a popular tourist destination with a wide range of restaurants using local produce and dairy products. Additionally, the city has numerous museums exhibiting the island’s rich history and artistic talent.
The Southern Highlands
The Southern Highlands is a rural area of New South Wales located just a few hours southwest of Sydney.
The Southern Highlands are characterised by rolling green hills, dense forests, hiking trails, and majestic waterfalls.
After exploring the wilderness, visitors can visit charming local towns like Bowral or Robertson to enjoy a traditional Australian pie or explore antique shops.
Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay is located approximately 140 km south of Sydney and is considered a beautiful area in New South Wales.
The bay contains several small villages, and lush forests are interspersed among the settlements.
Booderee National Park in Jervis Bay offers excellent bushwalks and hikes, with the beaches being a standout feature of the area.
The White Sands Coastal Track offers stunning views and is a pleasant walking trail through the bush. Along the way, you’ll come across several beaches with soft sand and calm waters, perfect for a refreshing swim.
On this trail, according to some, you’ll come across Hyams Beach, which is said to have the whitest sand in the world.
Adelaide
Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia, offers a diverse range of cultural and culinary experiences, making it an excellent destination.
Adelaide offers a variety of museums, art galleries, festivals, shops, restaurants, and cafes to entertain any traveller, although it may not be as large as Sydney or Melbourne.
Some popular places in Adelaide are the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, the Adelaide Central Market, and Cleland Conservation Park, which offers walking trails and waterfalls.
The Adelaide Festival, the city’s largest event, occurs annually in March and showcases a vibrant display of art and culture.
Adelaide is known for its vineyards and wineries in nearby Barossa Valley, making a wine-tasting and vineyard tour a popular attraction.
The Great Barrier Reef
For many travelers, the Great Barrier Reef is a highly desired destination in Australia.
The coral reef system is the largest on the planet, containing hundreds of islands and various marine life.
The Great Barrier Reef is located off the coast of Queensland in the Coral Sea and can be accessed from various places such as Cairns, Airlie Beach, Port Douglas, or Cape Tribulation.
Snorkeling or scuba diving provides an excellent opportunity to observe marine life up close and personal at the reef.
The optimal time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is from June to October, when there is less rainfall and better water visibility.
During winter in Australia, temperatures in Queensland also decrease to a comfortable level.
The Noosa
Noosa is considered a desirable destination in Australia.
This area is located on the coast of Queensland and is known for its beautiful beaches, national parks, and upscale shops and restaurants.
Noosa Heads National Park is known for its scenic beauty, offering visitors hiking trails, peaceful picnic grounds, and stunning beaches such as Tea Tree Bay.
Noosa attracts longboarders for the right-hand point breaks that produce ideal, rolling waves. It’s an excellent destination for learning how to surf.
The Kakadu National Park
Kakadu is considered one of the best holiday destinations in Australia, as it is the country’s largest national park.
Kakadu National Park offers endless exploration opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
There are numerous activities to enjoy in this area, such as crocodile spotting in Yellow Water, swimming in Jim Jim Falls, observing ancient Aboriginal rock paintings in Ubirr, and hiking and camping in the bush.
Kakadu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Northern Territory.
The Broome
Broome is a small resort town situated in the Indian Ocean Kimberley Region of Western Australia. Situational looking for a gratis place are highly recommended for holiday destinations in Australia; this place is for visiting a local pearl farm, bird-watching near the Broome Bird Observatory and searching for dinosaur tracks at Gantheaume Point.
Cable Beach is a well-known beach in Broome. It stretches for 22 km and is characterised by soft white sand, making it an ideal spot for sunset viewing or camel rides.
It is advisable to refrain from swimming in the ocean during the rainy season, which spans from November to May, as there is a high occurrence of dangerous jellyfish during this period.
Uluru
Uluru, also known as Ayer’s Rock, is a notable and distinctive destination in Australia, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The large red rock in the desert is composed of sandstone and holds significant cultural importance for indigenous Australians.
The nearest town, Alice Springs, is a 7-hour drive away, making Uluru a significant distance to travel.
Suppose you are travelling through the Outback or Northern Territory. In that case, stopping at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is recommended to witness the breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the sacred rock.
Jumping Сrocodile Cruise from Darwin
Embark on the thrilling Jumping Crocodile Cruise, a must-do adventure from Darwin that promises an adrenaline-pumping encounter with some of the most formidable creatures in the natural world. Nestled within the Northern Territory’s untamed waterways, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness crocodiles in their natural habitat. The region, particularly around Darwin, Adelaide River, and Mary River, is a renowned haven for these reptiles, with estimates suggesting the presence of over 100,000 individuals.
Prepare to be awestruck by the sight of the planet’s largest reptile, a living link to the age of dinosaurs. These awe-inspiring crocodiles, which can grow to a staggering 6 meters—comparable to the length of a small bus—and weigh as much as 1000kg, are a testament to nature’s enduring marvels. Among these mighty creatures was “Sweetheart,” a notorious crocodile known for its escapades involving chewing off boat motors and pilfering livestock. Although “Sweetheart” is no longer alive, its legacy lives on and can be explored further at the Darwin Museum, where it is preserved for posterity.
The Gold Coast
The Gold Coast, located on the south coast of Queensland, is often included in lists of the best places to visit in Australia.
It is uncommon to find a combination of skyscrapers and beautiful sandy beaches in such proximity, allowing travellers to experience both vibrant city life and relaxing beach life simultaneously.
The Gold Coast features several theme parks and is conveniently located near charming beach towns such as Burleigh Heads and Surfer’s Paradise.
The city is also a convenient starting point for exploring Lamington National Park, an expansive region of mountains, valleys, and forests.
The Blue Mountains
If you are looking for an authentic wilderness experience, this is one of the most accessible and impressive destinations to visit in Australia.
The Blue Mountains are just a one-hour train ride from Sydney, making them a convenient location for travellers arriving in the city.
The Blue Mountains are known for their vast valleys, cliffs, and impressive waterfalls, creating a majestic and untamed atmosphere.
Several towns in the forest, such as Katoomba and Blackheath, offer a range of Australian tourist attractions.
Tired of travel planning, then try booking Blue Mountains Tours. The journey takes place in a comfortable vehicle with a professional guide. Who will give you full information as you go along the journey.
The Margaret River
The small town in Western Australia is well-known for its wineries.
Margaret River and the surrounding areas are known for producing some of Australia’s finest wine, offering various vineyard tours and opportunities for wine tasting.
Additional winter activities in Margaret River include whale watching, coastal hiking, exploring the limestone cliffs and caves of Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, and engaging in water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Wilson’s Promontory
When visiting Victoria, consider going to Wilson’s Promontory for a tranquil experience in nature.
The small peninsula on the southeast corner of Australia is known for its beautiful beaches and hiking trails through the bush.
Tidal River Campground serves as the area’s central hub, providing convenient access to the top walks, viewpoints, and beaches of Wilson’s Promontory.
You can hike from Picnic Bay to Whisky Bay, walk the sands of Squeaky Beach, and enjoy the incredible view from the peak of Mount Oberon.
The Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife, making it a top destination in Australia.
Kangaroo Island is a popular day trip from Adelaide or other parts of South Australia, located off the state’s coast.
This location has kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and other typical Australian animals, along with native birds, sea lions, seals, and penguins.
Flinders Chase National Park features distinct and rugged rock formations to the island’s west, including the well-known Admirals Arch.
Perth
Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is considered one of the top tourist destinations in Australia.
Many travellers fly into Perth, the largest city in the state, before exploring other attractions such as Esperance, Broome, or Margaret River.
However, it is recommended to allocate some time to explore the city and immerse oneself in its rich cultural heritage.
Perth is known for its top attractions, such as Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, Fremantle Prison, Coogee Beach, and the Swan Valley wineries. Additionally, the beaches in Perth are a must-visit.
Additionally, visitors can ascend the Bell Tower for a sweeping city view or embark on a day excursion to Rottnest Island to observe quokkas.
If you don’t want to burden yourself with the preparation and planning of your trip, you can take a Perth tour and you will only have to enjoy your journey.
The Brisbane
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is a notable destination to include in a trip around Australia.
Brisbane offers a variety of museums, landmarks, parks, gardens, and food options that will entertain any traveller.
Some highlights of Brisbane include walking along the South Bank, where you can find street markets and twinkling lights at night, and visiting Mount Coot-tha for a panoramic view of the city.
K’gari (Fraser Island)
K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island) is a popular destination for camping, exploring nature, and swimming in beautiful spots. It is located off the coast of Queensland.
Lake McKenzie, the Indian Head Viewpoint, and the striped cliffs of the Cathedrals are all scenic spots on K’gari.
One option for visiting the island is to take a day trip from Hervey Bay or Brisbane. Alternatively, you can bring your camping gear and stay overnight on the world’s largest sand island.
The Great Ocean Road
To experience stunning coastal views and potentially spot koalas in their natural habitat, visit the Great Ocean Road.
The 243-km strip of coastline in southern Victoria is known for its beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and lush forests, making it a top destination in Australia.
The road features famous landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, and the Bay of Islands, all known for their intriguing jagged rock formations. Another highlight of the route is Port Campbell National Park.
You can book a Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne or hire a car and stay at one of the campsites along the route.
Cairns
Cairns is a popular destination in northern Queensland, known for its abundance of backpackers and enjoyable activities.
Some visitors only spend a brief time in Cairns en route to the Great Barrier Reef or the Daintree Rainforest. However, allocating some time in the city is recommended to appreciate its offerings fully.
You can visit Rusty’s Fruit Market for fresh and affordable tropical fruits, stay at one of the many backpacker hostels for a lively night experience, or relax and sunbathe at the Lagoon, a large artificial beach.
Swimming in the ocean in tropical north Queensland during the summer months is not advised due to the presence of crocodiles and jellyfish.
The Murray River Region
The longest river in Australia spans 2508km and passes through New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. Travelling along this river will take you to some of the country’s most distinct cultural towns.
The Murray River flows through various landscapes, including mountains, valleys, farmland, and forests, and supports a range of businesses and recreational activities.
If you enjoy wine, you will appreciate the exceptional vineyards in Australia. Additionally, numerous outdoor activities are available, such as paddleboarding and kayaking.
The Alice Springs
Alice Springs, nestled in the heart of Australia’s Northern Territory, stands over 1,500 kilometers from the nearest city, epitomizing the quintessential outback experience. This remote rural town is strategically located for the ultimate Uluru tour, offering an immersive journey into the Red Centre.
Renowned as a hub for delving into the Aboriginal people’s profound history, heritage, and culture, Alice Springs is a treasure trove for those keen on understanding Australia’s indigenous roots. The town is peppered with top-notch museums and galleries showcasing indigenous Australian art, and is also the home of a vibrant Aboriginal community. Moreover, it provides an array of dining, drinking, and accommodation options, catering to various tastes and preferences.
The region’s main allure lies in its stunning desert landscapes, imposing rock formations, and captivating gorges, making it an ideal destination for Alice Springs day trips. Uluru, with its distinctive colour and colossal size, stands as a highlight, drawing visitors from around the globe. Additionally, the majestic Kata Tjuta rock formations and the awe-inspiring Kings Canyon offer equally breathtaking vistas, completing the unforgettable Red Centre experience.
Larapinta Trail
The Larapinta Walking Tours present an unparalleled opportunity to explore the breathtaking Larapinta Hiking Trail, a jewel in Australia’s wilderness landscape. Nestled in Central Australia’s heart, the trail stretches a vast 223 kilometers through the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges, offering a mesmerizing blend of ancient scenery and dramatic vistas.
As you walk along this unusual desert route, you’ll encounter an array of wildlife, bodies of water and intriguing geological wonders. Key attractions along this journey include the majestic Mt. Sonder, the serene beauty of Serpentine Gorge, the iconic Simpson’s Gap, and the captivating Ormiston Gorge, among others.
The Pinnacles
Pinnacles tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the captivating Pinnacles, nestled within Nambung National Park, a short distance from the quaint town of Cervantes in Western Australia. These intriguing limestone structures, which remained largely obscured from the public eye until 1967, garnered protection due to their isolated location and striking presence, leading to the establishment of a dedicated reserve.
Standing tall amidst the desert terrain, the Pinnacles evoke images of ancient, weathered tombstones, creating a spectacle that is both eerie and magnificent. The relentless sweep of sand, driven by winds from the nearby coastal dunes, continuously sculpts and redefines their remarkable profiles, adding to the area’s mystique.
The genesis of the Pinnacles is a subject of ongoing debate among scientists. The prevailing theory suggests that these formations are primarily composed of limestone derived from seashells, hinting at the region’s submerged past. Today, the Pinnacles are not just geological wonders but also a hotspot for tourists. Visitors to this surreal landscape can often spot an array of native Australian wildlife, including Western grey kangaroos, emus, dingoes, and the elusive honey possum, enriching the experience of the Pinnacles tours.
The Byron Bay
Byron Bay is located in New South Wales, Australia, and is known for its beaches, surf spots, and relaxed atmosphere. It is a popular tourist destination along the Pacific Highway between Brisbane and Sydney.
The town offers a variety of arts and culture festivals, as well as weekly farmers’ markets. It is known for its scenic setting and abundant outdoor activities, including beach lounging, scuba diving, surfing, and whale-watching. Skydiving and yoga are also popular options for visitors.
Byron Bay’s unique atmosphere and natural beauty have attracted diverse residents, including hippies, artists, surfers, business people, and families. As a result, the town has seen an increase in trendy establishments such as bars, restaurants, art galleries, and various accommodation options.
Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon, located in Watarrka National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory, is a notable tourist destination due to its impressive size, scale, and breathtaking scenery. The gorge, formed over 400 million years ago through erosion of ruddy-coloured sandstone, is a prominent feature of the region.
The canyon’s walls reach over a hundred meters, with a creek and some vegetation below. There are cliffs, rock formations, and scenic views to enjoy while walking or hiking.
Kings Canyon has historically served as a vital water source and a place of sanctuary for the Luritja people. It remains a sacred site to this day. Given the intense heat and harsh climate, bringing ample water when exploring or ascending the canyon is strongly recommended.
The Grampians National Park
Embark on an adventure with us to the Grampians National Park, an iconic destination boasting some of Australia’s oldest and most magnificent mountain ranges. Immerse yourself in the stunning vistas and diverse landscapes that this area offers. Delve into the rich Aboriginal cultural heritage, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of this ancient land. Spot local wildlife and admire the lush vegetation in Grampians National Park.
This Grampians Tour takes you into the heart of the National Park, where you’ll be mesmerised by the sandstone ridges and rugged mountainous terrain. Be prepared to be amazed by sweeping panoramic views, waterfalls, and the dynamic flora and fauna that characterize this region. The tour also offers an opportunity to explore the park’s bushland through hiking trails, leading you to the most spectacular lookout points for an unforgettable view of the Grampians National Park.
