Australia was on my bucket list for years. I diligently saved miles so that I could fly first class and arrive ready to explore the whole country. I built an elaborate 28-day itinerary that involved cars, trains, and planes in an attempt to see everything. Then my elderly parents decided they wanted to come. There was no way they could keep handle that itinerary so we scaled back to a cruise of Australia and New Zealand. On the cruise, I was able to explore Sydney and Melbourne and had a chance to visit Tasmania which was not on my original itinerary.
Visiting the Land Down Under and experiencing all that it has to offer is hardly possible in one trip. I would have been overwhelmed if I had tried to follow my original itinerary. Now I would say that overdoing the itinerary for your visit to this island nation is not advisable. Before you stack your list of “things to do” up too high, let me provide some further insight based on the experience of myself and my clients on the highlights of Australia. That way, as you begin planning your dream trip to Australia you can fill it full of exploration without feeling pressed for time and causing more unnecessary stress.
Sydney
Sydney is one of Australia's largest and most beloved cities. It is a beautiful place to begin your first 4 to 5 days on the island, especially if you are traveling between June and August. With lots of natural beauty and invigorating city life, there's so much to explore. Some places you should visit include the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Blue Mountains, Circular Quay and the Harbour, Royal Botanical Gardens, and, last but not least, the beaches.
Melbourne
It's easy to feel captivated by the beauty of Melbourne, so we suggest spending at least 4 to 5 days here, too. You could honestly get lost forever in all of its wonders. Although it's nowhere near as busy as Sydney, Melbourne has a bustling scene of its own. In the city, you can dine at one of many delightful restaurants or shop at any of the unique boutiques. However, the best way to get a feel for it all is by touring the entire city. Be sure to visit Federation Square, Flinders Street Train Station, the Yarra River, Chinatown, Bourke Street Pedestrian Mall, and the ever-so-popular Queen Victoria Market. Children and adults will enjoy the Melbourne Zoo where you can see all of the strange and wondrous creatures that call Australia home.
Great Ocean Road
Travel along Great Ocean Road for some of the most amazing sites in Australia. This coastal road stretches for 151 miles and makes the perfect 2-day trip. Take your time to soak in the views and be sure to stop at the 12 Apostles, London Bridge, all of the beaches and forests situated alongside the road.
Ayers Rock (Uluru)
Take 2 or 3 days to visit Ayers Rock if you can squeeze it into your itinerary. Unless you fly, it will take a few days to get to the famously massive sandstone, but it's well worth it. Some of the most magical moments can be experienced at Ayers Rock, including sunrise, sunset, and stargazing.
Great Barrier Reef
One of Australia's most quintessential tourist attractions is the Great Barrier Reef. Since the reef stretches from below the Tropic of Capricorn way up to the northern tip of Queensland, there is plenty of opportunity for scuba diving and snorkeling. Plan to spend 3 to 4 days here, visiting Cairns, The Whitsunday Islands, Lady Elliot Island, and Cape Tribulation.
I'd love to help you design the perfect Australia itinerary. You can book your free consultation, email me, or call to begin planning your Aussie adventure.