The best places to visit in Australia

Spanning 123 kilometres in length, the World Heritage-listed K’gari isn’t just the largest sand island on Earth, but sparkles with the fourth most crystal-clear waters in Oceania. The adventures are endless here, both on and off the water. You can climb ancient sand dunes, swim in crystalline lakes, trek through tropical rainforests, and spot humpback whales and the world's largest purest colony of dingos. Plus, K'gari is wonderfully off-grid, so you can truly switch off during your stay.

How to get there? 50-minute ferry ride from Hervey Bay

Why go? 4WD driving, freshwater lake swims, ancient rainforest hikes, whale watching.

Where to stay? Kingfisher Bay Resort or K'gari Beach Resort.

When to go? K'gari enjoys warm weather year-round, but spring (September to November) is our favourite time to avoid peak summer crowds.

Don't miss: Lake McKenzie – one of the world's only 'perched lakes'.

Think you have to go to the Maldives for a slice of paradise? Australia’s got its very own paradise ready and waiting in the Whitsundays. This collection of 74 islands is located right next to the northeast coast of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef. Most of the islands are uninhabited, and you’ve probably seen secluded, long white stretches of beach and gorgeous landmarks like Heart Reef on your Instagram feed. If that’s not enough to entice you to pay a visit, the average daily temperature is 27 degrees Celsius. Enough said.

How to get there? Ferry from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island.

Why go? Snorkelling, boat trips, scenic flights.

Where to stay? InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef or Airlie Beach.

When to visit? From September to October, to catch the end of whale season and to enjoy consistent warm weather. 

Don't miss: Hiking up Hill Inlet for sweeping views of Whitehaven Beach.

With its golden sands and laid-back holiday vibe, the Gold Coast has always been a favourite destination for those seeking a relaxed seaside escape. However, this famous Queensland holiday spot offers more than just a day at the beach. With its rich Indigenous heritage, vibrant markets, heart-pumping adrenaline activities and thriving live music scene, there is plenty to keep you entertained along the coastal strip. For a change of pace, head to the naturally beautiful Gold Coast hinterland, where you’ll find an oasis of calm and stunning scenery. Bring your swimsuit and your sense of adventure.

How to get there? Fly from most major cities or 90-minute drive from Brisbane.

Why go? Ripper waves, beautiful beaches, fancy hotels, top-tier food and drink scene.

Where to stay? Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads or Kirra.

When to go? Between May and October, when the weather is perfect for lounging on the beach without getting too hot and sweaty.

Don't miss: Climbing Skypoint – Australia's highest external building walk.

Noosa easily ranks as one of Australia’s most beloved beachside towns, and for good reason. Surrounded by the lush hinterland of Noosa National Park and boasting one of only two everglade systems in the entire world, this place is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. You can swim with humpback whales, surf world-renowned waves, scale majestic cliff faces and zoom along the coastline on a thrilling jet boat ride. Translating to 'shadows' or 'shade' in the language of the native Kabi Kabi people, Noosa also offers plenty of places to escape the sun. The resort town’s main strip, Hastings Street, buzzes with local boutiques, all-day eateries ideal for people-watching, bougie spas, gorgeous galleries and waterfront accommodation. 

How to get there? 30-minute drive from Sunshine Coast Airport or two-hour drive from Brisbane. 

Why go? Nature walks, beautiful beaches, waterfront dining. 

Where to stay? Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort or Seahaven Beachfront Resort Noosa.

When to go? During spring, from September to November, when the temperatures are warm enough to swim but not too hot or sticky. 

Don't miss: The stunning half-day Coastal Walk from Noosa Main Beach to Sunshine Beach.

It's a classic for a reason. A UNESCO World Heritage icon, people come from all over the world to witness the rainbow wonders of the biggest coral reef on Earth. Although threatened by climate change, the Great Barrier Reef continues to offer up a watery magic that has to be swum in to be believed. Whether you’re a hardcore scuba diver, novice snorkeller or want to see the Great Barrier Reef via a fancy glass-bottomed boat, there are multiple ways to explore it. Just make sure you wear reef-safe sunscreen. The turtles will thank you. 

How to get there? 1.5 to 3-hour boat ride to the Outer Reef from Cairns, Port Douglas or Townsville.

Why go? Glass-bottom boat rides, snorkelling, scuba diving.

Where to stay? Cairns, Port Douglas or Townsville.

When to go? From May to October, when there is minimal rainfall and the water is a pleasant temperature.

Don't miss: Learning what we can do to save the world's largest coral reef system. 

If the name didn’t already give it away, the Scenic Rim is truly a spectacular sight. Just an easy 60-minute drive from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, this hinterland region is known as Brisbane’s World Heritage-listed backyard, boasting stunning national parks, lush rainforests and dramatic mountain ranges. See for yourself why it was included in Lonely Planet’s Top Ten Regions of the World list for 2022. And instead of rushing back, extend your time in the hinterland with a night (or three).

How to get there? 60-minute drive from Brisbane or the Gold Coast.

Why go? Off-grid escape, breathtaking mountain vistas, boutique vineyards.

Where to stay? Spicers Peak Lodge, O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat or Wander in the Scenic Rim.

When to go? From April to September, when the weather is cooler and less humid – perfect for bushwalking.

Don't miss: A French feast at The Overflow Estate 1895.

This ancient rainforest is the traditional country of the Kuku Yalanji people. For an estimated 5,000 years, the Indigenous people of the Daintree have been coexisting with the environment and imbuing the land with dreaming. Referring to the rainforest as ‘Madja’ (elder), the Kuku Yalanji are the custodians of invaluable knowledge of the prehistoric flora and fauna. The Daintree is full of sacred sites and you can experience some of these with permission. This verdant paradise features movie-cool waterfalls, clear blue lakes, sunlight shimmering through the trees, tropical vegetation and exotic wildlife. 

How to get there? Two-hour drive to the ferry crossing from Cairns or one hour from Port Douglas.

Why go? Incredible rainforest walks, secret swimming holes, Aboriginal walkabout tours, eco-lodges.

Where to stay? Silky Oaks Lodge, Cape Trib Beach House or Daintree Ecolodge. 

When to go? Visit during the wet season, from December to April, for gushing waterfalls and lush rainforests, or during the dry season, from May to September, when the cool, mild climate is ideal for hiking.

Don't miss: The Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk at Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre.

The red centre in the Northern Territory is truly Australia's sacred heart, and nothing is quite so sacred or spectacular as Uluru, in Kata Tjuta National Park. On the ancestral lands of the Anangu people, Uluru has had immense spiritual importance for Australia's First Nations people. In all types of light, weather and seasons, Uluru 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 Tjuta (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, Uluru and Kata Tjuta 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.

Just a zippy 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle (or 90 minutes from the 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 11km long and 4.5km 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.

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, off-grid holidaying.

Where to stay? Capella Lodge or Lorhiti Apartments.

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

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

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 little over two hours north of Sydney, the coastal city of Newcastle has emerged as a cultural spot. Much more than a stop off on your way to the Hunter Valley wine region, ‘Newy’ is an increasingly vibrant city with plenty of memorable food options, excellent shops, coastal walks and wide-open spaces to explore over a long weekend. Spend summer days at Nobbys Beach or swimming in the open-air Merewether Ocean Baths. Take a walk up to Nobbys Lighthouse, and then around to harbour precinct, Honeysuckle. At sunset, we’d recommend having a cocktail up at the QT hotel’s rooftop bar, before heading to one of the area’s best restaurants, Flotilla, which heroes beautiful local produce and wine. 

How to get there? Two-hour drive from Sydney or three hours by train.

Why go? Ocean swimming, surfing, coastal walks, delicious food.

Where to stay? QT Newcastle or Crystalbrook Kingsley. 

When to go? In summer, when the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for swimming and surfing. 

Don't miss: The 450-metre-long clifftop Anzac Memorial Walk, which ranked as the world's eighth most underrated tourist attraction in 2024.

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.

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 50 minutes northeast of Adelaide, 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.

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. 

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.

Gorgeous sunken gardens, secret underground caves and that famous blue crater lake: Mount Gambier is hiding a whole lot of natural geological wonders. Despite being South Australia’s largest regional city, this Limestone Coast gem doesn’t get much time in the spotlight. Mount Gambier sits halfway between Adelaide and Melbourne, making it an easy addition to your Limestone Coast or Great Ocean Road adventure. Named after the volcano it rests on, which erupted 5,000 years ago, this city is packed with sights so surreal that you have to see them to believe them. 

How to get there? 4.5-hour drive from Adelaide or five hours from Melbourne.

Why go? Cool caves, sunken gardens, blue lakes.

Where to stay? Mount Gambier Hotel or The Barn.

When to go? From November to March, when the lakes turn bright blue.

Don't miss: Staring into the shimmering waters of Blue Lake.

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.

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.

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 24ºC.

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.