In this article, we’re going to explore some of the most amazing places in Australia, including iconic world famous locations and also some lesser known destinations which are less touristy.
Aside from the stunning beaches and busy cities, Australia has plenty more to offer. There’s a reason (or should we say many reasons) why people choose to visit the country again and again or why native Australians choose to spend their summer vacations exploring the parts of the country that they’ve never seen.
How to Get Around
You could discover the highlights on a tour of Australia, via public transport or by renting or buying a campervan which can be one of the most fun ways to get around.
You could invest in a camper trailer or caravan from Offroad Explorer in Australia and head out and see sights that are unmatched anywhere else in the world.
Whether you’re a native to Australia and you need some inspiration for where to go on your next trip, or you’re planning a visit to the country in the near future, here are six places in Australia that you really shouldn't miss.
1. Sydney Opera House
One of Australia’s most well-known places is the Sydney Opera House. You could argue that it’s this building that makes Australia’s skyline so iconic and recognizable.
Sydney Opera House opened up in 1973 and has since been a hugely popular attraction in New South Wales. All year round, a range of live shows and events for the whole family to enjoy.
You can enjoy the amazing views that Sydney has to offer as you dine in one of the restaurants in the Sydney Opera House, such as the Opera Bar and Kitchen, or Portside and Bennelong.
No matter what kind of before you enjoy watching, you’ll be able to find something that is right up your street in the Opera House. Make sure to book your tickets in advance if you want to see any of the shows or attend the events, as they book up quickly!
No Sydney itinerary would be complete without seeing this world famous attraction.
2. Sydney Harbour Bridge
While we’re talking about Sydney, we can’t fail to mention the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Located next to Sydney Opera House, the bridge is another key landmark of Sydney’s skyline.
It’s a heritage-listed steel bridge that connects the central business district (known as CBD) to the North Shore. Aptly nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ thanks to its arched shape, the bridge can be crossed by road traffic and pedestrians.
If you enjoy living life on the edge, you can try the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb. See the unforgettable 360-degree view of Sydney and take as many travel photos as you like for your scrapbook!
3. Great Barrier Reef
If you plan to travel the east coast of Australia you need to visit Queensland.
Queensland is home to the famous Great Barrier Reef. It is probably Australia’s most famous attractions and hundreds of thousands of people travel to visit it every year.
The Great Barrier Reef spans 3000 km across the stunning Queensland coast. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling and diving or not, you will still enjoy a trip to the Reef. It’s unlike anywhere else in the world and there’s something for everybody to enjoy.
You can enjoy gazing into the vast waters or taking a leap into the Reef itself using the remote diving sites. There are also regular helicopter rides if you want to see the Great Barrier Reef in all its glory.
Going scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef really is something to tick off your bucket list.
4. Gold Coast
The Gold Coast of Australia is one of those places that meets its expectations. It looks just as stunning as it does in all of the photos online.
With the hot sun shining on The Gold Coast most of the year, you will be able to relax and get a tan. It consists of long stretches of stunning beaches.
It’s the perfect place for those of you who love breathing in the crisp air from the sea or are keen surfers. If you’ve never surfed before and want to learn the basics, the Gold Coast is the place to be.
Join the thousands of beachgoers who flood the area every year and make a day of it. There are plenty of amazing restaurants and cafes to grab a bite to eat with your family if you get hungry.
5. Daintree Rainforest
The Daintree Rainforest is located in Queensland in Australia. Its spans 1200 square kilometers of land, and you could easily spend all day roaming through the area.
This attraction brings thousands of people to Queensland every year to view one of Australia’s most famous natural wonders. The indigenous Kuku Yalanji Tribe offers incredible walks through the rainforest so you can surround yourself with nature.
If you want to stay in the rainforest overnight, there is the silky oak Lodge where you can book a place for yourself and your family. It’s the perfect way to relax in a serene environment, surrounded by the beauty of nature. You would be hard-pressed to find anywhere as peaceful as the Daintree Rainforest!
6. Port Douglas
Port Douglas is a quaint resort town situated in the far tropical north of Queensland. It’s near to both the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, so you easily make a visit if you’re visiting the area on your travels.
The main reason to visit Port Douglas is to use it as a base for your visit to the Great Barrier Reef. You can hop on a boat to head down the reef from one of the areas in Port Douglas.
However, there are still plenty of things to do Port Douglas itself. It also has 4 miles of palm tree-lined beaches for you to walk along as you browse the various shops. You can follow your stroll with a tasty lunch or dinner in one of the many restaurants and cafes along the coastline.
7. Ayers Rock
Ayers Rock and the Outback is very remote, it really is in the middle of nowhere but it is worth going here.
The trip here is one of the best Australian road trips where you'll see red desert for miles around. The sky is so clear without pollution, and Ayers Rock when you see it is magicl especially at sunrise and sunset when it changes colour.
There are lots of camping tours departing locations like Alice Springs or if you plan on driving in the Australian Outback you will need to follow safety advice. Also view sample Outback packing lists so you are prepared before you go.
Plan the Utimate Trip to Australia
Of course, Australia is a huge country with literally hundreds more places you could visit.
This article has hopefully highlighted some of the unique attractions you really need to see, both natural and man made.
If you are dreaming of Down Under search Australia working holiday seasonal-jobs-working-holidays or find your perfect Australia gap year trip.
