The 33 best places to visit in Australia

The Red Centre is truly Australia's sacred heart, and nothing is quite so sacred or spectacular as Uluṟu in Kata Tjuṯa National Park. On the ancestral lands of the Anangu people, Uluṟu has had immense spiritual importance for Australia's First Nations people. In all types of light, weather and seasons, Uluṟu is magnificent. You can walk around its immense red base and hear stories from Indigenous guides, but climbing is very much not allowed. While you're there, drive 40 minutes to Kata Tjuṯa (formerly known as The Olgas) for another remarkable and magnificent red rock formation that's imbued with ancient secrets and deep spiritual meaning. Considered a living, breathing landscape, Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa are places that will stay with you long after you've left.

How to get there? Fly direct from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns and Alice Springs, or 4.5-drive from Alice Springs.

Why go? Magical sunsets, guided Indigenous walks, impressive light shows.

Where to stay? Longitude 131 or Sails in the Desert.

When to go? During the dry season, from May to September, when maximum temperatures reach 20 to 30ºC.

Don't miss: Wintjiri Wiru – a magical light and sound spectacle that brings ancient Anangu stories to life using 1,200 drones.

A UNESCO World Heritage wonder, Kakadu National Park is certainly one of Australia’s most incredible national parks. The fringe of the park is about a two-hour drive from Darwin, where it sits on the traditional lands of the Bininj/Mungguy people. Pro tip: Kakadu is best explored at your own pace by car. It’s actually Australia’s largest national park (it covers more than 20,000 square kilometres), so you’ll need some time to discover it all properly. Take a peek at the 200-metre Jim Jim Falls waterfall; go for a swim at Gunlom, the crystal-clear infinity rock pool made famous in Crocodile Dundee; hike your way through the 30-odd walking trails that sweep across Kakadu; or take your 4WD out for a spin towards the crown of the park, Jarrangbarnmi (also known as the stunning Koolpin Gorge).

How to get there? Three-hour drive from Darwin.

Why go? Hiking, waterfalls, hot springs, 4WD drives.

Where to stay? Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, Cooinda Lodge or camping.

When to go? During the dry season from May to September, when the majority of tourist sites are open, the temperatures are cooler and waterfalls are flowing. 

Don't miss: Watching the sunrise or sunset at Nawurlandja Lookout.

Known as Mparntwe to the Traditional Arrernte Land Owners, this remote Northern Territory town represents the very best of our nation: from its impressive natural wonders to its rich Aboriginal culture and adventurous community spirit. Alice Springs is surprisingly easy to reach, with direct flights from almost every Australian capital city taking just two or three hours. But for those craving a true Outback experience, it's also prime road trip territory, with many travellers opting to tackle it via the six-day Red Centre Way loop. Whether it’s watching the sunset over ancient free-standing cliffs, floating in freshwater swimming holes, camping under the stars or exploring the region’s incredible Indigenous art galleries, there’s no shortage of unforgettable moments. 

How to get there? Fly direct from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Darwin, or five-hour drive from Uluru.

Why go? Indigenous art, natural beauty, ancient landmarks, stargazing.  

Where to stay? DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Alice or Mercure Alice Springs Resort.

When to go? During the cooler months, from April to October, for milder daytime temperatures and cooler nights.

Don't miss: Araluen Arts Centre, where you can browse more than 1,100 works from the region or check out the latest touring exhibition.

The Stuart Highway slices straight down the middle of Australia. At the cross-section between the south, north and west is Katherine. Population: 10,000. Kilometres to Darwin: 317. Activities: endless. Whether you are stopping through on a Top End road trip or sticking around to explore the Big Rivers Region, there’s plenty to do in the town where the outback meets the tropics. Day trip to Nitmiluk National Park, where you can cruise the mighty Katherine River, tackle some of the legendary Jatbula Trail, cool off at Leilyn/Edith Falls and explore Top Didj Art Gallery, which brings together incredible works from more than 250 artists in remote NT communities.

How to get there? 45-minute flight from Darwin or 3.5-hour drive.

Why go? Epic hikes, hot springs, Indigenous cultural experiences.

Where to stay? Big4 Breeze Holiday Parks or Cicada Lodge.

When to visit? During the dry season from May to September, for warm days and cool nights with minimal rainfall. Many tour operators close during the wet season from October to April.

Don't miss: A sunset cruise on the majestic Nitmiluk Gorge.

Just a zippy 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle (or 90 mins from Perth CBD), Rottnest Island is one of those incredibly rare places on Earth that looks even better IRL than it does in glossy travel magazines. Also known by its local Aboriginal name, Wadjemup, and ‘Rotto’ by locals, it’s an essential addition to any Western Australia itinerary. Out-of-towners may know Rottnest for its friendly population of quokkas, but the island is also home to the most incredible azure blue waters you’ll come across, and nowadays, it has a selection of top-notch eateries and luxe accommodation, as well as camping grounds, cafés and low-key restaurants for the budget-conscious. 

How to get there? 90-minute ferry from Perth.

Why go? Beach hopping, bike riding, quokkas, camping.

Where to stay? The Lodge Wagjemup, Samphire Rottnest or Discovery Rottnest Island.

When to go? Summer is the most popular time, so we recommend visiting during spring or autumn to avoid the crowds.

Don't miss: Riding a full lap of the 11-kilometre-long and 4.5-kilometre-wide island.

The sleepy coastal town of Exmouth is adjacent to the Cape Range National Park and the 300-kilometre Ningaloo Reef – a region that is drop-dead gorgeous and brimming with vitality. Located about 1,270 kilometres north of Perth, Exmouth is a nature lover’s playground with one of the longest fringing reefs on the planet, meaning in many places the coral comes right up to the beach. You can swim with whale sharks (don’t worry, they’re harmless filter feeders that can grow up to 18 metres in length), spot a black-footed rock wallaby at Yardie Creek or take a guided walk through the fossil-crusted Mandu Mandu Gorge, which has been inhabited by humans for about 30,000 years.

How to get there? Two-hour flight from Perth to Learmonth Airport, then 30-minute drive to Exmouth town. 

Why go? Swimming with whale sharks, reef snorkelling, hiking.

Where to stay? Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef or Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort.

When to go? From April to October, during whale-watching season.

Don't miss: Swimming with whale sharks in the Ningaloo Reef.

If adventure is your favourite thing, look no further than the wild reaches of the Kimberley in Western Australia. Whether you do it by road trip, cruise or helicopter, this vast and incredible region is full of ancient Indigenous and geological history, glorious waterways and towering red rocks. A particular highlight is the shocking pink waters of Lake Hillier. Three times bigger than England, this is an absolutely huge area of land, so we recommend doing it either with a tour or with someone who knows what they're doing.

How to get there? Fly from Perth or Darwin to Broome (for Western Kimberley) or Kununurra (Eastern Kimberley). You'll need a 4WD to drive from the airport into the region.

Why go? Giant waterfalls, pink lakes, ancient Indigenous rock art, helicopter rides, hikes.

Where to stay? Berkeley River Lodge, El Questro Station or Eco Beach Resort.

When to go? During the dry season, from May to October, for comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall.

Don't miss: Flying over the bubblegum-pink waters of Lake Hillier.

With fiery sunsets, milky low moons, red dirt (the Pindan) and azure waters, it’s no wonder Broome’s population swells from 14,000 to more than 45,000 during the Dry Season. Located at the tip of Western Australia, this tiny town is visually and culturally so stimulating that just one visit is never enough. Broome is best known for its blazing sunsets, striking red dirt and azure waters, but visitors also have the chance to uncover its fascinating history as a pearling port and dive into a melting pot of Japanese, Aboriginal and European cultures. Our top picks? Embark on a sunset camel ride along Cable Beach, catch a flick at Sun Pictures, have a ginger beer at Australia’s most remote brewery, and if you’re lucky, witness the Staircase to the Moon phenomenon.

How to get there? Fly direct from most major Aussie cities.

Why go? Sunsets, camel rides, beachside beers, pearling tours.

Where to stay? Cable Beach Club Resort or Mangrove Hotel.

When to go? From May to October, when it's not too humid or sticky. 

Don't miss: The Staircase to the Moon – a mesmerising natural phenomenon that occurs when the full moon rises over the mudflats at low tide, casting a reflection that appears as a stairway to the sky.

Whether you know it for its hippie days or for being home to Chris Hemsworth, Byron Bay in the Northern Rivers region of NSW is inarguably stunningly beautiful. A barefoot, beachside town that is also a whale and dolphin sanctuary, Byron offers up stunning beaches, gorgeous green rolling hills and epic coastal walks galore. On top of all the astounding nature is world-class food, incredible coffee, an abundance of boutique shops and a year-round holiday feel. Although now more gentrified and expensive than it's ever been, Bryon has a particular kind of magic that even the most cashed-up influencers cannot take away. 

How to get there? Fly to Ballina Airport from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, then drive 30 minutes to Byron Bay. Alternatively, it's a one-hour drive from the Gold Coast or two hours from Brisbane. 

Why go? Blissful beaches, coastal walks, trendy food scene.

Where to stay? Elements of Byron or Hotel Marvell.

When to go? Right after the summer school holidays, from March to May, when you can enjoy beautiful sunny days at the beach without the crowds.

Don't miss: Watching the sunrise at Cape Byron Lighthouse.

Everyone knows Sydney packs a punch when it comes to spectacular views and thrilling activities. A blue-water city through and through, this buzzing metropolis is a one-stop holiday destination that has something for pretty much everyone. From incredible beaches, to hot and happening new bars, cafés, and restaurants, to colourful cultural happenings, to secluded bushwalks, this city has it all, no matter your poison. 

How to get there? 15-minute train from Sydney Airport to the CBD, or 15 to 30-minute drive.

Why go? Beautiful beaches, world-class restaurants, ferry rides, secluded bushwalks.

Where to stay? Park Hyatt, Shangri-La Sydney or Manly Pacific.

When to go? In autumn or spring, when the weather is still warm and pleasant but it's not peak season.

Don't miss: Catching the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Beach.

A hop, skip and a jump west of Sydney lies the Blue Mountains region. Named for the mysterious blue mist (generated from the thousands of gum trees, actually) that hugs this immense landscape, this remarkably special spot manages to combine incredible nature with cosy eateries, impeccable accommodation and delightful boutique shops. In summer, explore the region's many pristine waterholes and waterfalls, and in winter, rug up for cosy walks, followed by a meal out at one of these incredible restaurants. Whether you like glow-worm grottos or day spas, this perfect weekend away from Sydney can be whatever you want it to be. 

How to get there? 90-minute drive from Sydney or two-hour train ride to Katoomba and Leura stations.

Why go? Bushwalks, waterfalls, stargazing, day spas.

Where to stay? Chalets at Blackheath or Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort and Spa.

When to go? In late spring, from October to November, when the warmer, drier weather creates ideal conditions for bushwalking.

Don't miss: The Scenic World Skyway – a 720-metre return ride across the valley in a cable car, suspended 270 metres in the air.

Rugged, tropical and seriously beautiful, Lord Howe is a destination that we all want to try at least once in our lives. With just 400 visitors allowed at any one time and no mobile reception here, you’ll have space to breathe as you visit incredible natural attractions and mingle with the hundreds of animal species that call this island home. Fun fact: Lord Howe claims right to the most beautiful airport landing in the world. But that's just the start. Whether it's exploring secret beaches, swimming with rainbow fish or eating incredible food, this is paradise in all senses of the word.

How to get there? Two-hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane.

Why go? Secret beaches, swimming with turtles, diving, peaceful hikes.

Where to stay? Capella Lodge or Earl's Anchorage.

When to go? From October to May, for sunny days and warm water.

Don't miss: Feeding hundreds of tropical fish at Ned's Beach.  

If you're a snow bunny and are keen to come Down Under and hit the slopes, you're in luck (so long as it's winter, and there's been snow). Up high in the Australian Alps is the aptly named 'Snowy Mountains' region of NSW. Also accessible from Canberra and Melbourne, this rugged and mountainous region has a special beauty, no matter the season. In winter, ski at one of the many snow resorts up high, and in summer, head up for cool climate hikes, freezing swims and cosy eats.

How to get there? Five-hour drive from Sydney or 2.5 hours from Canberra.

Why go? Skiing, snowboarding, mountain hiking, hot tubs.

Where to stay? Thredbo, Perisher, Jindabyne or Lake Crackenback.

When to go? During winter, from June to October, for the best snow conditions. Summer is also a great season to visit for hiking and mountain biking.

Don't miss: Hiking Australia's tallest mountain, Mount Kosciuszko.

Recently named as the world's second-best 'must-visit' region by Lonely Planet, Kangaroo Island (also known as Karta Pintingga) is pretty special. Full of pristine beaches, this open-air wildlife sanctuary is perfect for all those keen on seeing native Aussie animals at their happiest in the wild. With perfect beaches, seal colonies, cuddly koalas and a seriously delicious local food and wine scene, this third-largest island in Australia is a fail-safe place for good times. Plus, it's home to a beach that took out Tourism Australia's prize for best beach in the nation in 2023.

How to get there? 40-minute flight from Adelaide or a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jervis.

Why go? Native animal spotting, quiet beach walks, sweeping ocean views, luxury resorts.

Where to stay? Southern Ocean Lodge or caravan parks.

When to go? During the summer months, from December to February, when it's warm enough to enjoy the beaches.

Don't miss: Seeing Australia’s largest sea lion population at Seal Bay Conservation Park. 

The Barossa Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine-producing regions, so if you’re a fan of vino, this is the place to visit. You’ll find it 56 kilometres northeast of Adelaide CBD, and there are more than 150 wineries and 80 or so cellar doors to explore. The region primarily focuses on big reds (mostly shiraz and cab sav), but you’ll also find a healthy selection of grenache, riesling and chardonnay. Big Australian wineries like Penfolds, Yalumba and Jacob’s Creek are located here, but we’d recommend visiting smaller producers like Charles Melton and Rockford Wines if you’re after true Aussie hospitality. 

How to get there? One-hour drive from Adelaide CBD.

Why go? Wine tours, scenic drives, gourmet food trails.

Where to stay? Kingsford The Barossa or The Louise.

When to go? During the harvesting season in late autumn, from April to May.

Don't miss: Cruising down Seppeltsfield Road. 

South Australia is the gift that keeps on giving. From the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale to the Flinders Ranges and Eyre Peninsula, it’s full of gorgeous getaways, all just a road trip away from Adelaide. But perhaps the closest day trip, and one of the most underrated, is the beautiful Adelaide Hills. This cool climate region is full of charming villages, world-class wineries, lush forests and five-star stays. Every season justifies another visit – whether you’re picking strawberries at Beerenberg Farm in summer, strolling through fiery foliage at Mount Lofty Botanic Garden in autumn, sipping red wine by the fire in winter, or having a picnic amongst the vineyards in spring.

How to get there? 20-minute drive from Adelaide CBD.

Why go? Fruit picking, wineries, botanic garden picnics, cosy stays.

Where to stay? Sequoia Lodge or Cabn Hanndorf.

When to go? Year-round.

Don't miss: Go strawberry picking at Beerenberg Farm (November to April), or enjoy scones with jam and cream in the off-season.

Considering a whopping 65 per cent of Australia's seafood comes from this pristine bit of coastline that lines the Great Australian Bight in Southern Australia, you can bet your bottom dollar that if you like fish, this should be on your Australia travel list. From swimming with sea lions to exploring pristine beaches to foraging for your own oysters, Eyre has it all. You can fly into one of the region's three airports from Adelaide, and then hire a car to explore the long stretches of remote and stunning coastline on the way. You'll just need a roadworthy vehicle, and a ravenous appetite for good times – and even better seafood.

How to get there? 60 to 90-minute flight from Adelaide to Port Lincoln or Whyalla. Or from a 4.5-hour drive departing Adelaide.

Why go? Jaw-dropping beaches, oyster foraging, coastal caves, swimming with sea lions.

Where to stay? Port Lincoln, Coffin Bay or Streaky Bay.

When to go? During summer, from December to February, when sunshine is most abundant and rain is rare.

Don't miss: Eating oysters straight from the source in Coffin Bay.

All the stereotypes about Melbourne are true: everyone wears black, everyone is coffee obsessed, and there are far too many rooftop bars for a city with such temperamental weather. But the best thing about Melbourne is that it’s full of secrets to discover. Whether it’s a hidden laneway bar, a ten-storey shopping adventure or an underground theatre space, most things worth visiting are within easy reach (and cheap as chips to get to, thanks to the city-wide free tram zone).

How to get there? 30-minute SkyBus City Express from Tullamarine to Southern Cross Station in the CBD, or 25 to 40-minute drive.

Why go? Top-notch coffee, hidden laneways, AFL, vibrant arts and culture scene.

Where to stay? The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, 1 Hotel Melbourne or Quincy Hotel.

When to go? During autumn and spring, when the weather is comfortable for outdoor sightseeing.

Don't miss: Seeing the latest exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria.

Justifiably one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations, the Great Ocean Road snakes all along the southwest coast of the state, starting in Torquay (1.5 hours from the CBD) and finishing up just before Warrnambool. This winding stretch of road provides ample opportunity to reconnect with the ocean, the bush and the sounds and sights of nature, whether driving, walking, horse riding, surfing, sailing or cycling. From stunning beaches and cascading waterfalls to upmarket dining and the wonders of the Twelve Apostles, there are plenty of adventures to be had. 

How to get there? 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne CBD to Torquay. 

Why go? Road trips, natural wonders, stunning beaches.

Where to stay? Lorne, Apollo Bay and Warrnambool.

When to go? In late summer and early autumn, from February to April, when the weather is still warm but not scorching. 

Don't miss: The brand-new lookout at the Twelve Apostles.

From seaside villages to quaint regional towns, there are so many picturesque places to visit in Victoria – but Daylesford is officially the most beautiful. There’s a reason this quaint town is known as a haven of relaxation. Eighty per cent of the country's mineral springs are found in the region, which makes it perfect for spa treatments and for growing high-quality produce, which you can enjoy at one of Daylesford's top restaurants. If you're after more than just a day at the spa, Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, while the town’s markets and cozy cafes provide a rich cultural experience.

How to get there? 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne CBD.

Why go? Hot springs, farm-to-table dining, tranquil lakes.

Where to stay? Lake House Daylesford or Hepburn Spa Retreat.

When to go? Spring is ideal for blooming gardens, while winter is perfect for cosy spa escapes.

Don't miss: Going on a serene 2.8-kilometre loop walk around the iconic Lake Daylesford. 

Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a thing of beauty that needs to be seen in person to be believed. Sure, you might have seen all the landmarks – Dove Lake, the imposing mountain itself, pristine Lake St Clair, flowering fagus in autumn, adorable snow-dusted snuffling wombats – on Instagram, but nothing compares to breathing in the pure alpine air and seeing this glorious place with your own eyes. Beautiful in every season, Cradle Mountain is probably at its most spectacular in autumn, when the fagus trees start to turn and everything is bathed in fiery orange. But no matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Cradle Mountain.

How to get there? 2.5-hour drive from Launceston or 4.5 hours from Hobart.

Why go? Challenging hikes, outdoor activities, animal spotting, luxe spas.

Where to stay? Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge or Discovery Resorts - Cradle.

When to go? During summer, from December to February, for warmer weather and minimal rainfall.

Don't miss: Walking the six-kilometre Dove Lake circuit.

It’s easy to understand the allure of Australia’s southernmost state. For one thing, 40 per cent of Tasmania is preserved as national parks and world heritage wilderness. Drive 20 minutes outside the state’s capital and you can walk in emerald bushlands, hike to hidden waterfalls or discover remote beaches. But Hobart isn’t just for nature fans. There’s extraordinary food, gin and whisky distilleries, incredible markets, cool-climate wineries, wild festivals, and a world-class art museum in MONA.

How to get there? 20-minute drive from the airport to Hobart CBD, or 35 minutes on the Metro Tasmania Route 600 bus.

Why go? Fresh produce, epic festivals, cold weather.

Where to stay? MACq 01 or The Tasman.

When to go? During summer, from December to February, when temperatures average between a pleasant 20 and 24 degrees Celsius.

Don't miss: Exploring MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art.

With its incredibly pure air and unspoilt wilderness, Bruny Island is reachable via a 20-minute ferry journey from the town of Kettering. With just a few hundred human residents, it’s also home to an abundance of wildlife, including fairy penguins, white wallabies and swift parrots. Frolic on remote beaches, do incredible hikes and spot dolphins and whales jumping in the clear waters of the Tasman Sea. On top of that, you eat. Whether it's fresh oysters from Get Shucked or oozing cheeses and chilled glasses of vino from the Bruny Island Cheese Company, it's guaranteed you will not leave empty (stomach, or soul). 

How to get there? 40-minute drive from Hobart to Kettering, then 15-minute ferry to North Bruny.

Why go? Fairy penguins, oysters and cheese, unspoilt landscapes, water adventures.

Where to stay? Hotel Bruny or 43 Degrees Bruny Island.

When to visit? During summer, from December to February, when you can enjoy beach swims and increase your chances of spotting little penguins. 

Don't miss: Watching the sunset at The Neck.