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Top 10 must-see destinations on an Australian tour

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Top 10 Must-See Destinations on an Australian Tour
cute koala on tree branch in australia
Australia
By
Cassie
Travel Advisor
November 11, 2024
8
minute read

The best places to visit in Australia

Australia is a land of breathtaking diversity, where rugged outback landscapes meet pristine beaches, ancient rainforests, and vibrant cities. With so much to explore, it can be hard to decide where to start. This guide highlights the top 10 must-see destinations on an Australian tour, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and unique wildlife experiences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these destinations promise unforgettable memories on your Australian journey.

Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders and a must-see destination on any Australian tour. As the largest coral reef system on Earth, it stretches over 2,300 kilometres along the Queensland coast, offering visitors the chance to experience vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life up close.

Whether you’re snorkelling or scuba diving among colourful fish or enjoying a scenic boat tour over the reef’s crystal-clear waters, the Great Barrier Reef promises an unforgettable adventure. The reef is home to thousands of marine species, including sea turtles, dolphins, and rays, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

  • The world’s largest coral reef system, spanning over 2,300 kilometres.
  • Home to over 1,500 species of fish, including colourful corals and marine life.
  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981.
  • Offers activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, and scenic boat tours.

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Sydney Harbour, New South Wales

No visit to Australia is complete without experiencing the iconic sights of Sydney Harbour. Home to two of Australia’s most famous landmarks, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, this vibrant harbour offers a mix of culture, history, and stunning views. A stroll around the harbour reveals breathtaking panoramas of the bridge and opera house, while a harbour cruise provides the perfect vantage point to see them from the water.

The Bondi Beach to Bronte Coastal Walk is a must for beach lovers. This scenic path takes you along some of Sydney’s most picturesque coastline, offering stunning ocean views and a chance to relax at famous beaches like Bondi. A visit to Darling Harbour, with its bustling waterfront restaurants and attractions, rounds out the perfect New South Wales experience. Why not extend your trip to include the Blue Mountains National Park?

  • Iconic landmarks include the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.
  • The harbour is known for its stunning views, especially from a harbour cruise.
  • The Bondi Beach to Bronte Coastal Walk is a must for scenic coastline views.
  • Darling Harbour offers waterfront dining and cultural attractions.

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Uluru (Ayers Rock), Northern Territory

Located in the heart of Australia's Red Centre, Uluru is one of the country’s most iconic and culturally significant landmarks. This massive sandstone monolith rises dramatically from the surrounding desert landscape, offering an awe-inspiring sight, especially during sunrise and sunset when its colours shift from deep reds to vibrant oranges and purples.

Uluru holds deep meaning for the local Anangu people, and visitors can explore its Aboriginal heritage through guided tours that share the area's stories, history, and spiritual significance. Whether you’re taking a guided walk around the base, learning about ancient rock art, or simply watching the sunset over the desert, Uluru offers a profound and unforgettable experience.

  • Uluru is a massive sandstone monolith rising 348 metres from the desert floor.
  • A sacred site for the Anangu people, rich in Aboriginal cultural significance.
  • Famous for its changing colours at sunrise and sunset.
  • Offers guided walks and cultural tours to explore Aboriginal rock art.

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Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Kangaroo Island is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking up-close encounters with Australia’s unique wildlife. Just a short ferry ride from the mainland, the island is home to many animals, including sea lions, koalas, penguins, and kangaroos. Visitors can enjoy guided wildlife tours or simply explore the island’s diverse habitats at their own pace.

A trip to Flinders Chase National Park is a must, where you can witness the island’s rugged beauty, including the iconic Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. The park also offers excellent hiking trails and opportunities to see fascinating wildlife in its natural environment. With its unspoiled landscapes, abundant wildlife, and serene atmosphere, Kangaroo Island is a must-see destination for anyone touring South Australia.

  • Known for its unique wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and sea lions.
  • Flinders Chase National Park is home to the iconic Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch.
  • Popular for its unspoiled beaches and rugged coastal landscapes.
  • Offers a variety of wildlife and adventure tours.

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The Great Ocean Road, Victoria

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, offering jaw-dropping views and iconic landmarks along the way. This famous route is best known for the Twelve Apostles, towering limestone formations that rise majestically from the ocean, providing a breathtaking sight at sunrise and sunset.

As you travel this scenic road, you’ll encounter stunning scenery, from rugged cliffs to pristine beaches and lush rainforests. The drive is perfect for road trips, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore charming coastal towns, waterfalls, and nearby national parks. The Great Ocean Road is a must-see destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty on their Australian tour.

  • One of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, stretching 243 kilometres.
  • Famous for the Twelve Apostles, dramatic limestone stacks in the ocean.
  • Popular for road trips, offering stunning coastal views and lush rainforests.
  • Nearby national parks and charming seaside towns enhance the experience.

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Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

Ningaloo Reef is one of Western Australia’s hidden gems, offering an underwater paradise where visitors can swim alongside majestic whale sharks, manta rays, and a rich diversity of marine life. As one of the world’s largest fringing coral reefs, stretching over 300 kilometres, Ningaloo is renowned for its pristine waters and vibrant coral formations. Unlike the Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo’s reef is easily accessible, with snorkelling opportunities just metres from the shore. 

This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is perfect for ecotourism and marine conservation enthusiasts. It provides unforgettable encounters with nature in one of Australia’s most unspoiled coastal environments. Whether you’re snorkelling, diving, or simply admiring the crystal-clear waters, Ningaloo Reef is a must-see for any traveller exploring Western Australia.

  • One of the world’s largest fringing reefs, stretching 300 km.
  • Incredible snorkelling and diving with whale sharks and manta rays.
  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site for its pristine coral and biodiversity.
  • A top spot for eco-tourism and marine conservation.

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Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory

Kakadu National Park is a vast and breathtaking World Heritage Site renowned for its rich wetlands, diverse wildlife, and ancient Aboriginal rock art. Spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometres, it’s Australia’s largest national park, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history.

Visitors can explore the park’s stunning landscapes through a variety of hiking trails, leading to dramatic waterfalls, serene billabongs, and panoramic viewpoints. Along the way, you’ll encounter an abundance of wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles, bird species, and more. Scenic tours and cultural experiences allow you to learn about the park’s Indigenous heritage and admire some of the world’s oldest rock art. Kakadu National Park is a must-see for anyone looking to connect with Australia’s natural and cultural treasures.

  • Australia’s largest national park, covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres.
  • Famous for its wetlands, wildlife, and ancient Aboriginal rock art.
  • Offers scenic hikes, cultural tours, and wildlife-watching opportunities.
  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for both natural and cultural significance.

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Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

Cradle Mountain is one of Tasmania’s most iconic natural landmarks, offering stunning landscapes that attract visitors year-round. Located within the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, this region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, known for its rugged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and expansive wilderness.

The park is a paradise for hikers, with numerous hiking trails that cater to all fitness levels, from short walks around Dove Lake to the challenging Overland Track. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking views, ancient forests, and diverse wildlife, including wombats and Tasmanian devils. Whether you’re exploring the park’s scenic beauty or enjoying a peaceful nature retreat, Cradle Mountain is a must-see destination for any nature lover.

  • Located in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
  • Known for its dramatic landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife encounters.
  • The Overland Track is a popular multi-day hike for adventure seekers.
  • Offers pristine lakes, forests, and a chance to spot Tasmanian devils.

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Barossa Valley, South Australia

The Barossa Valley located in South Australia, is one of Australia’s premier wine regions, renowned for its world-class vineyards and picturesque landscapes. Visitors to the valley can indulge in immersive wine tours, exploring historic wineries and sampling some of the finest wines in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual taster, the cellar door experiences offer a unique opportunity to meet winemakers and learn about the region’s rich viticulture.

Beyond the vineyards, the Barossa Valley is also known for its world-class restaurants, where you can enjoy gourmet cuisine made from fresh, local produce. Pair your meals with award-winning wines as you take in the serene surroundings of the countryside. Visiting the Barossa Valley is a must for those seeking a blend of luxury, relaxation, and culinary delight on your Australian tour.

  • Australia’s premier wine region, known for its vineyards and wine tours.
  • Famous for its cellar door experiences and world-class Shiraz wines.
  • A hub for gourmet dining, with world-class restaurants using local produce.
  • Known for its picturesque vineyards and beautiful countryside.

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