Explore the Outback and Beyond: 25 Must-See Destinations in Australia

Get ready for a wild adventure in the Land Down Under! Australia, the world’s largest island and smallest continent, is the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. From the lush rainforests of Kakadu to the stunning beaches of Tasmania, the possibilities are endless. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Aboriginal people, soak up the sun on a golden beach, or party the night away in a bustling city. With so much to see and do, you’ll never run out of exciting things to explore in Australia. Don’t miss out on the chance to visit the awe-inspiring national parks like Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Kakadu, for a truly unforgettable experience.

Exploring Australia? Check out this “Must-See” Map of Down Under’s Top Destinations!

Get ready for a tropical paradise adventure! The stunning beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters of this destination are a sight to behold, and home to the incredible Great Barrier Reef – a natural wonder and a must-see for any traveler. With so much to explore, you’ll have to plan carefully to make the most of your trip!

25. Canberra

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Canberra, the capital of Australia, may have started as a planned city in 1913, but it’s now blossoming into a vibrant and beautiful destination. Dubbed the “bush capital,” this city nestled in the midst of breathtaking nature reserves and rolling hills in the Northern Australian Capital Territory, is more than just a government town. It’s now home to top-notch museums, art galleries, and national landmarks. With a plethora of shops, eateries, and bars to choose from, plus a thriving student population, the nightlife scene is always hopping. Despite its relatively young age, Canberra boasts plenty of intriguing historical sites related to its parliament and government institutions.

And if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love Canberra’s remote and rural setting. Take a hike or bike ride through the nearby nature reserves or explore the city’s many parks, gardens, and man-made lakes. So come on down and discover the wild side of Canberra.

24. The Pinnacles

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Get ready for a truly unique natural wonder – The Pinnacles! Located within the Nambung National Park, not far from the charming town of Cervantes in Western Australia, these limestone formations will blow your mind. Despite their remote location, The Pinnacles were largely a mystery until 1967 when a reserve was created to protect these striking pillars.

Rising out of the desert floor like weathered tombstones, The Pinnacles number in the thousands and create a spectacular sight as sand from the coastal dunes constantly blows through the otherworldly landscape. While the exact formation of these shapes is still up for debate, it is generally believed that they are made of limestone from ancient seashells as the area was once submerged.

Now, The Pinnacles are a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can spot Western grey kangaroos hopping around the pillars, as well as the occasional emu, dingo, and honey possum. So pack your bags and head to Western Australia for an unforgettable experience with The Pinnacles.

23. Gold Coast

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Get ready for endless sun, sea, and surf at Australia’s dazzling Gold Coast! Nestled just south of Brisbane on Queensland’s southeastern coastline, this coastal city is a top holiday destination for its lively yet relaxed atmosphere and endless sunshine.

Surfers Paradise is the must-see spot for many visitors. Dubbed the “capital of the Gold Coast,” this area boasts massive shopping malls, thumping nightclubs, and an abundance of dining, drinking, and lodging options. Towering high-rises loom above the expansive beach, perfect for soaking up the sun, swimming, and watersports.

While some might call it a tacky tourist trap, the Gold Coast has plenty to offer. From beautiful beaches and breathtaking sunsets to thrilling amusement parks, water parks, and nature reserves, plus world-class surf breaks, you’ll never be bored! So, pack your sunscreen and head to the Gold Coast for the ultimate beach vacation.

22. Alice Springs

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Welcome to the heart of Australia, where adventure awaits in the form of Alice Springs! This remote rural town, located deep in the Northern Territory’s outback, more than 1,500 kilometers from the nearest city, may take some effort to reach, but it’s worth it for the chance to explore the Red Centre.

While the town itself may not have much going on, Alice Springs is an excellent destination for those interested in diving into the rich history, heritage, and culture of the Aboriginal people. It’s home to several top-notch museums and indigenous Australian art galleries, as well as a sizable Aboriginal population. Plus, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and hotels to choose from, you’ll have all the comforts of home while you’re there.

But the real draw of Alice Springs is the awe-inspiring desert landscapes, rock formations, and gorges that surround it. While the iconic Uluru, with its distinctive ruddy hue and massive size, attracts the most visitors, the Kata Tjuta rock formations and the awe-inspiring chasms of Kings Canyon are not to be missed. So pack your bags and head to Alice Springs for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Australia.

21. Karijini National Park

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Get ready for an adventure in the wild at Karijini National Park, the second largest in Western Australia! Located about a thousand kilometers north of the state’s capital, Perth, and centered around the Hamersley Ranges, this park is known for its rugged, mountainous terrain and breathtaking gorges, slot canyons, and waterfalls.

Rise above it all and conquer the three highest peaks in the west of Australia. These peaks offer fantastic hiking opportunities, as well as the chance to explore the narrow gorges and precipitous chasms beneath them. After a dusty hike, take a dip in one of the park’s hidden water holes or glittering waterfalls for a refreshing break.

But the beauty of Karijini doesn’t stop there, it’s also home to over 800 different plant species and an abundance of incredible wildlife. Keep an eye out for wallabies, echidnas, and red kangaroos as you explore this nature reserve. So pack your hiking boots and head to Karijini National Park for an unforgettable adventure in the wild.

20. Darwin

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Experience the tropical paradise of Darwin, the capital of Australia’s Top End region! Known as the most international of Australia’s major cities, Darwin’s proximity to other countries in the Indian Ocean has made it a transportation hub since its founding days. Despite being devastated by World War II and Cyclone Tracy, Darwin is a resilient city with a spirit that cannot be defeated. Today, this city of around 75,000 people is a popular holiday destination.

Relax on Darwin’s wide sandy beach lined with open-air beer bars, seafood restaurants, and multicultural shops. Take a stroll along the twice the size of Sydney Harbor, Darwin Harbor, and go on a cruise, from two to 12 hours, to explore the region’s mangrove forest. In the evening, locals and visitors enjoy films at the Deckchair Cinema, a large open-air theater located on the banks of the harbor.

Darwin is also the hub for tours to famous Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park, and Katherine Gorge. From watching crocodiles cavort in Crocodylus Park, cruising to the Aboriginal-owned Tiwi Islands or just lounging on the beach, there’s always something new to experience in tropical Darwin. So pack your bags and head to Darwin for an unforgettable tropical vacation.

19. Daintree Rainforest

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Experience the natural beauty of Daintree, one of the world’s oldest and most diverse tropical rainforests, located on the northeast coast of Australia. This national park in the state of Queensland is home to an incredible array of fauna, flora and ancient ecosystems.

Daintree is not just lush rainforest, but also includes rugged mountains, teeming rivers, rich coral reef systems, and beautiful beaches. Cape Tribulation, in particular, is known for its stunning white sandy beaches.

Best accessed from the city of Cairns, a three-hour drive away, Daintree Rainforest is a nature lover’s paradise with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Whether it’s hiking through the dense undergrowth, bird and wildlife watching, paddleboarding, ziplining through the canopy or cruising along one of its rivers, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags and head to Daintree to explore the natural beauty of Australia’s oldest rainforest.

18. Byron Bay

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Discover the laid-back paradise of Byron Bay, the easternmost point of Australia’s mainland, located in the state of New South Wales, just off the Pacific Highway that connects Brisbane to Sydney. Known for its idyllic beaches, fantastic surf spots, and relaxed lifestyle, this beautiful beachside town is one of the nation’s most popular tourist destinations.

Byron Bay is not just about lounging on the beach, it also host a number of arts and culture festivals throughout the year, as well as weekly farmers’ markets. Visitors can enjoy a wealth of outdoor activities, such as scuba diving, surfing, and whale-watching offshore, with skydiving and yoga also popular.

Due to its alternative vibe and rugged beauty, Byron Bay attracts everyone from aging hippies and artists to surfers, business people, and families. As a result, many trendy bars and restaurants have opened up, as well as art galleries and a wide range of accommodation options. So pack your bags and head to Byron Bay to experience the laid-back paradise of Australia’s east coast.

17. Fraser Island

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Explore the natural beauty of Fraser Island, a world’s largest sand island, separated from the mainland of Australia by the Great Sandy Strait, just off the Queensland’s southeast coast. Stretching over a hundred kilometers, this island is known for its beautiful scenery, outstanding natural sights and is a popular tourist destination.

The island’s shoreline is lined with idyllic white sandy beaches, crumbling sand cliffs and dotted with lush rainforests, dense mangroves, and epic coastal dune systems. In addition, more than a hundred freshwater lakes punctuate its picturesque landscapes, with Lake Wabby and Lake MacKenzie two of the most popular.

Much of the stunning scenery is located within Great Sandy National Park, which is home to all kinds of birds and mammals, such as dingoes, dolphins, wallabies, and whales. Besides wildlife watching, Fraser Island also offers great hiking, swimming, and watersports for visitors to enjoy, and camping beneath the stars is always a memorable experience. So pack your bags and head to Fraser Island for an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors.

16. Broome

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Get ready to escape to paradise at the picture-perfect town of Broome! Nestled on a tiny peninsula in the Indian Ocean, this secluded gem on Western Australia’s northern coast is a hidden oasis. Far from the hustle and bustle of Darwin and Perth, this remote beach resort and pearl capital serves as the gateway to the region’s natural treasures.

Unwind at the stunning Cable Beach – one of the most gorgeous beaches in Australia – where you can soak up the sun on its white sands, swim in its crystal-clear waters, and indulge in cocktails and spa treatments at the luxury resorts. And don’t miss the chance to ride a camel at sunset for an unforgettable experience.

For the adventure-seekers, check out the awe-inspiring rock formations at Entrance Point and the vibrant red cliffs and ancient dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point – both just a stone’s throw away. And if you’re up for a journey, take a trip to the Horizontal Falls and other wild and untouched landscapes dotting the Dampier Peninsula and Kimberley Region – you’ll be glad you did!

15. Cairns

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Escape to the tropical paradise of Cairns, where adventure and relaxation awaits! Known for its perfect weather, relaxed atmosphere, and close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is one of Australia’s favorite vacation spots. This stylish, yet unassuming city located in the northwest corner of Australia, is home to around 150,000 people.

Cairns is surrounded by lush sugar cane plantations and dense rainforest, with stunning mountain and Coral Sea views. The city is full of great bars, restaurants, and shopping options to keep you entertained before you head out to explore the natural wonders nearby.

Instead of a traditional beach, Cairns features a beautiful saltwater lagoon in the heart of the city. Take a stroll along the Cairns Esplanade, where you’ll find trendy cafes, bars, and boutiques. If you’re looking for a sandy beach, head north of the city, where you’ll find plenty that are easily accessible by bus or car. The City Botanic Gardens are a must-see, featuring plants used by the Aboriginal people. And opposite the gardens, a boardwalk leads visitors through the rainforest to the Centenary Lakes, home to crocodiles.

Cairns is an adventurer’s dream, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, skydiving and whitewater rafting. To the north of Cairns, the Daintree Rainforest is the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, and a hike along an aerial walkway over the forest is an experience not to be missed.

14. Kings Canyon

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Get ready for a breathtaking adventure at Kings Canyon, located in Watarrka National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory! This natural wonder will leave you in awe with its massive size, scale, and stunning scenery. One of the region’s top attractions, Kings Canyon was formed over 400 million years ago as the red sandstone eroded.

The colossal canyon cuts through the barren desert landscapes, with walls towering over 100 meters high and a small creek with scarce vegetation below. With jagged cliffs, unique rock formations, and breathtaking scenery to discover, whether you’re strolling in the shade or hiking along its rim.

For the Luritja people, Kings Canyon has been a source of water and a place of refuge and respite from the scorching sun for centuries and is still a sacred site today. Keep in mind, due to the extreme heat and harsh climate, it’s essential to bring plenty of water when hiking or climbing around the canyon.

13. Adelaide

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Discover the charm of Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, located on the eastern shores of Gulf St Vincent! As Australia’s fifth largest city, Adelaide is home to over 1.2 million people and more than three-quarters of South Australians call the Adelaide metropolitan area home.

This city is nestled between the rolling Adelaide Hills and the Gulf and surrounded by some of Australia’s most renowned wine regions. The Barossa Valley and Clare Valley are to the north, the McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek to the south and the cooler Adelaide Hills region to the east. Dubbed as “the city of churches” because of its picturesque churches, Adelaide also offers plenty of lovely parks and green spaces for locals and visitors to enjoy.

Adelaide’s close proximity to premium wine and food growing regions, as well as waves of immigration from Europe and Asia, has created a unique multicultural gourmet food and cafe culture in the city. This culture is celebrated during Adelaide’s arts festivals held in March, such as the Adelaide Festival and the Adelaide Fringe Festival.

12. Blue Mountains

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Experience the beauty of the Blue Mountains, one of Australia’s most spectacular natural wonders, located just to the west of Sydney in New South Wales! With vast mountains, plateaus and escarpments to explore, it’s a perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Named for the misty blue haze created by the oil from its eucalyptus trees, the Blue Mountains are a haven for unspoiled nature and breathtaking scenery. The area offers a variety of well-maintained hiking trails and mountain biking paths, with stunning views from Echo Point and Govett’s Leap.

As the traditional home of the Gundungurra and Darug peoples, the Blue Mountains are also an excellent place to learn more about Aboriginal history and culture. Additionally, the area is dotted with charming towns and villages, such as Springwood known for its art galleries and Leura, boasting cozy craft shops and sophisticated restaurants.

11. Great Ocean Road

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Take a drive on the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic routes, located on the south coast of Victoria! Completed in 1932, this 243-kilometer-long highway was built by soldiers returning from World War I, and is dedicated to those who lost their lives.

The Great Ocean Road stretches from the seaside resort town of Torquay near Melbourne to the small and peaceful Allansford, passing by epic limestone sea stacks, secluded coves, and spectacular surf spots. It also winds through pockets of rainforest, fertile winelands, and endless eucalyptus forests, with charming seaside towns along the way.

Renowned for its incredible surfing, Bell’s Beach is one of the most popular attractions, along with Great Otway National Park, home to stunning natural beauty. And don’t miss the Twelve Apostles, the crumbling sea stacks that are constantly pummeled by the rough and treacherous waters of the Southern Ocean.

10. Perth

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Explore the vibrant city of Perth, the capital of Western Australia, and experience why it’s considered one of the most livable cities in the world! With a laid-back vibe, fantastic cultural sites, and endless things to do, Perth is a must-visit destination.

Many of Perth’s attractions are located near the water, whether it’s the beaches stretching along the Sunset Coast to the north or the parks, walks, and picnic spots along the Swan River. Fremantle, known as “Freo” by locals, is the city’s port, a bustling marina that has recently gained a reputation as an artists and student haven. And don’t miss Cottesloe Beach, just a few miles north of Fremantle, which is Perth’s most popular beach.

One of the largest city parks in the world, the thousand-acre Kings Park, encompasses Mount Eliza, a hill overlooking the city, and boasts a botanical garden with aerial walkways and the State War Memorial park. The Perth Zoo offers visitors up-close encounters with kangaroos and other animals native to Australia. And take a ferry service to car-free Rottnest Island or the nearby Penguin Island to watch daily feedings of the flightless birds.

Whether swimming with dolphins, firing up a barbie on the river’s shoreline, or exploring the Aquarium of Western Australia, the country’s largest aquarium, aquatic adventures abound in sun-and-sea-loving Perth.

9. Kangaroo Island

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Discover Kangaroo Island, the third-largest island in Australia, located just off the coast of South Australia, and reachable by a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jarvis. A popular tourist destination in the state, Kangaroo Island boasts untouched landscapes, incredible scenery, and an abundance of wildlife.

Explore the island’s nature reserves, home to huge dunes, towering cliffs, large caves, and remarkable rock formations. Spot echidnas, koalas, and kangaroos, and see penguins, sea lions, and dolphins offshore. The island’s diverse landscapes are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, sandboarding, and scuba diving.

In addition to its natural riches, wildlife and recreation opportunities, Kangaroo Island also offers delicious local produce and fine wines for visitors to try. Sample the island’s offerings at any of its four main towns or at the small farms and wineries that dot the island.

8. Brisbane

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Experience the vibrant and dynamic city of Brisbane, a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful sunshine year-round. As the third-largest city in Australia, with a population of about 2 million, Brisbane is located in the Sunshine State and is often a stopover for visitors on their way to the fantastic resorts and beaches to the north and south.

Situated along the Brisbane River, the city’s fantastic climate makes it perfect for outdoor activities such as biking, climbing, and hiking. Known for its lively music scene, Brisbane is one of the music capitals of the world, with plenty of venues to catch a great show. The city also offers a wide variety of delicious restaurants and bars to choose from, making it a must-visit destination.

7. Tasmania

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Discover the isolated island state of Tasmania, one of the best places to visit in Australia. The government has protected almost half of the island’s area, preserving its natural riches.

Explore Tasmania’s mesmerizing terrain, which includes desolate wilderness, alpine plateaus, stunning white beaches, waterfalls, and forests. Take a boat trip along its craggy coast, and spot dolphins, penguins, and seals along the way.

Tasmania’s capital city of Hobart is a food lover’s paradise, with many local produce options. Enjoy delicious meals and drinks at its divine restaurants and bars. The island also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, where you can indulge in local beer and wine, and enjoy arts and music events.

6. Whitsunday Islands

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Explore one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, the Whitsunday Islands, scattered off the northeastern coast of Queensland. Surrounded by warm aquamarine waters and part of the Great Barrier Reef, the archipelago features an abundance of national parks, stunning scenery, and picture-perfect beaches.

The Whitsundays are a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving, thanks to their colorful coral reefs and underwater riches. Sailing around the 74 islands and islets is also popular, as is lounging on their sun-kissed sands. The Whitehaven Beach, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The Whitsunday Islands are not only known for their natural beauty but also for being home to some of the oldest Aboriginal archaeological sites in the country. As the islands are mainly uninhabited and undeveloped, with only a few resorts and campsites, it’s best to arrange tours and activities in Airlie Beach on the mainland.

5. Melbourne

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Get ready for an adventure in Australia’s vibrant culture capital, Melbourne! As the second most populous city in the land down under, Melbourne is located on the southeastern coast, nestled in the beautiful bay of Port Phillip. With a diverse population from around the world, this city is a melting pot of flavors and unique neighborhoods.

When in Melbourne, the must-see City Center is where all the action is. The iconic Flinders Street Railway Station, with its impressive clocks, is the perfect spot to meet up with friends. Take a trip to the top at the Eureka Tower, where the 88th-floor observation deck offers breathtaking views of the bay and the Dandenong mountain range.

The Carlton district is home to the southern hemisphere’s largest museum, the Melbourne Museum. Take a journey through the nation’s history, from its indigenous cultures to its love for football and horse racing. The museum also has extensive exhibits showcasing Australia’s natural history.

For those who love the outdoors, Melbourne’s parklands are a treat. You’ll find plenty of shaded areas under mature trees to relax. And for a refreshing dip, the city’s bayside beaches are perfect. Brighton Beach’s colorful bathing huts offer a retro feel, while St. Kilda Beach is a favorite spot for swimming and dining by the shore. With so much to see and do in Melbourne, you’ll never have a dull moment!

4. Kakadu National Park

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Over 5,000 ancient rock art sites can be found in Kakadu National Park, which has been inhabited by Aboriginal people for over 40,000 years. It is a location with enormous cultural and environmental importance. The Kakadu Escarpment is one of the park’s most beautiful natural features, and the park as a whole is worth a visit for its size and stunning natural scenery.
With a variety of ecosystems present within the park’s boundaries, you can spend time swimming in waterfalls and pools one minute and climbing over deserted sandstone escarpments the next before learning about some of the ancient rock drawings. Despite the fact that Kakadu can become very crowded, if you venture off the usual path, you can easily enjoy the park’s amenities in peace and quiet.

3. Great Barrier Reef

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The Great Barrier Reef, which is the world’s largest coral reef system, is enormous. The Great Barrier Reef is a vast network of more than 2,900 coral reefs, hundreds of islands, and cays that is situated in the Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The Reef, one of the planet’s most diverse and complex ecosystems, was created by millions of living things over millions of years.

Although the Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Australian populations have always known about and exploited the Reef, it is now protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Among the little islands are breeding grounds for several kinds of birds, whales, dolphins, marine turtles, sea snakes, and corals, in addition to 1500 different types of fish.

A boat ride along Queensland’s northern coast is the ideal way to experience the Great Barrier Reef. Although Cairns is known as the primary entryway to the Great Barrier Reef, cruise operations are also available in Townsville, Port Douglas, Yeppoon, Mission Beach, and Cooktown.

These boat tours, which can range from one day excursions to multi-day journeys, typically anchor at particular locations to permit snorkeling and scuba diving. Underwater observatories, glass-bottomed boat tours, and helicopter rides are additional ways to experience the Reef.

2. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

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Get ready to be blown away by the iconic Uluru, Australia’s red-hot rock star! This massive, fiery red monolith is the main attraction at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and a must-see for any traveler. With its one-of-a-kind beauty and grandeur, Uluru will leave a lasting impression on all who behold it. But that’s not all, the park also boasts the equally mesmerizing rock formations of Kata Tijuta. The Anangu Aboriginal people are the proud custodians of this land, where it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. Take a journey through their history and way of life at the cultural center and immerse yourself in the natural wonder on a hike, bike ride or guided tour.

1. Sydney

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Get ready to be wowed by the picture-perfect city of Sydney! This historic, cosmopolitan hub is known for its stunning harbor, where the first settlers and convicts called home. Today, it’s a hot spot for tourists taking boat tours past the iconic Sydney Opera House and under the Sydney Harbor Bridge. For the adventurous, hop on a ferry to Manly Wharf and rent a kayak to discover the hidden gems of Sydney Harbor National Park’s inlets or catch a wave at Manly Beach with surf lessons. The Federation Cliff Walk is a must-do for nature lovers and offers a 3-mile journey starting at Raleigh Reserve Park with breathtaking views of the port, sea and the oldest functioning lighthouse in Australia, Macquarie Lighthouse.

Get your beach blanket ready because Sydney’s beaches are the ultimate summer destination! Bondi, Manly and Coogee are crowd favorites, but don’t miss out on the lesser-known gems that each have their own charm. No trip to Sydney is complete without a visit to the world-renowned Sydney Opera House. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and opened in 1973, this sailing ship-inspired performing arts complex is a architectural masterpiece. For the thrill-seekers, climb the harbor bridge and feel your heart race, while others can indulge in shopping at the historic Queen Victoria Building, dining and dancing in the Rocks district, and visiting the world-class Taronga Zoo. Sydney has something for everyone!