Curator’s statement
Australia is a country that offers a wide range of incredible experiences. Its diversity shines through its rich blend of cultures, stunning landscapes, and unique wildlife that cannot be found anywhere else. Home to one of the world’s oldest continuous cultures, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples bring deep-rooted traditions and stories to the nation’s identity. Australia’s cities are vibrant hubs of multiculturalism, with influences from Asia, Europe, and beyond, reflected in food, festivals, and art. From the red deserts of the Outback to lush rainforests, iconic beaches, and the Great Barrier Reef, Australia offers an unparalleled variety of natural wonders. With so much to see, planning your first trip can be overwhelming. What to prioritize seeing and doing? This guide outlines three options to inspire your first (or second!) two-week trip to Australia.
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Option 1: Australia’s iconic cities and beyond
Who is this for? Perfect for urban explorers and culture lovers, this journey combines Australia’s vibrant cities with nearby natural escapes. From world-class cultural landmarks to stunning coastlines, this itinerary blend cosmopolitan charm with outdoor adventures.
Melbourne (4 days)
Why visit? Melbourne is a cultural and culinary hub, celebrated for its vibrant laneways, world-class art galleries and diverse food scene. It’s a city where creativity thrives, from street art to live performances.
Explore Melbourne’s laneways, buzzing with street art and hidden cafés, and visit cultural landmarks like Federation Square and the National Gallery of Victoria. Take a stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Day trips:
Great Ocean Road for stunning coastal views, Yarra Valley for wine tasting or Phillip Island to see the famous Penguin Parade.
Sydney (4 days)
Why visit? Sydney combines urban energy and natural beauty with its iconic harbor, golden beaches and vibrant dining scene. From landmarks to coastal walks, it’s a city of endless experiences.
Admire the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, relax at Bondi or Manly Beach and explore Darling Harbour’s vibrant dining and entertainment. Don’t miss the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk or a ferry ride to Taronga Zoo.
Day trips:
Blue Mountains for scenic hiking, Hunter Valley for wine tasting or Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park for Aboriginal heritage and bushwalking.
Brisbane (3 days)
Why visit? A laid-back riverside city, Brisbane blends art, culture and nature with its thriving gallery scene, lush parklands and outdoor lifestyle.
Wander South Bank’s parklands, visit the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) and enjoy riverside dining. Take a river cruise for scenic city views or explore nearby Mount Coot-tha for panoramic vistas.
Day trips:
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Moreton Island for sandboarding and snorkeling or Tamborine Mountain for artisan markets and rainforest walks.
Gold Coast (3 days)
Why visit? Famous for its iconic beaches and thrilling theme parks, the Gold Coast also offers lush hinterland escapes with hiking trails and waterfalls.
Surf or relax on beaches like Surfers Paradise, explore the theme parks and visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Head inland to the lush hinterland for hiking trails and waterfalls in Lamington National Park.
Day trips:
Springbrook National Park for waterfalls, Byron Bay for laid-back beach vibes or O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat for treetop walks.
Option 2: Tropical highlights of the East Coast
Who is this for? A dream for nature lovers, this journey through Australia’s tropical east combines lush rainforests, colorful coral reefs and pristine islands. It’s perfect for adventurers and beachgoers alike.
Cairns (4 days)
Why visit? Cairns is the gateway to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, offering underwater wonders and ancient ecosystems.
Snorkel or dive in the Great Barrier Reef, explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest and take a scenic train or cableway to the mountain village of Kuranda.
Day trips:
Fitzroy Island or Green Island for reef adventures, Atherton Tablelands for waterfalls or Cape Tribulation for rainforest and beaches.
Whitsundays (3 days)
Why visit? The Whitsundays boast 74 idyllic islands surrounded by turquoise waters and pristine beaches, perfect for sailing and snorkeling.
Sail through turquoise waters to Whitehaven Beach, known for its pristine silica sands, and snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs. Stay on Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach for easy access to this tropical paradise.
Day trips:
Heart Reef for aerial views or nearby islands for secluded beaches.
Fraser Island (K’gari) (3 days)
Why visit? A UNESCO World Heritage Site, K’gari is famous for its freshwater lakes, towering sand dunes and unique wildlife experiences.
Discover Lake McKenzie’s clear waters, the famous 75 Mile Beach and the Maheno Shipwreck. Take a guided 4WD tour or explore on foot.
Day trips:
Visit the Rainbow Beach region or Lady Elliot Island for snorkeling and manta rays.
Noosa (4 days)
Why visit? A sophisticated beach town, Noosa is renowned for its golden sands, stunning coastal walks and vibrant food scene.
Relax on Noosa Main Beach, walk the coastal track in Noosa National Park and indulge in boutique shopping and dining.
Day trips:
Sunshine Coast Hinterland for quaint villages like Montville and Maleny or Eumundi Markets for handmade goods.
Option 3: Western Australia’s wild beauty
Who is this for? Ideal for adventurers and nature enthusiasts, this itinerary showcases Australia’s rugged west with its dramatic landscapes, pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.
Perth (4 days)
Why visit? A sun-soaked city with a laid-back vibe, Perth offers pristine beaches, sprawling parks and a lively arts and food scene.
Stroll through Kings Park and Botanic Garden, visit Fremantle for its historic port and markets and relax at Cottesloe Beach. Take a ferry to Rottnest Island to meet quokkas and explore by bike.
Day trips:
The Pinnacles Desert for unique limestone formations, Swan Valley for wine and food or Wave Rock for natural wonders.
Margaret River (3 days)
Why visit? Famous for its wineries and stunning coastal scenery, Margaret River is a haven for foodies, surfers, and nature lovers alike.
Tour world-class wineries and craft breweries, explore awe-inspiring caves like Jewel Cave and enjoy dramatic coastal views at Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.
Day trips:
Busselton Jetty for the Underwater Observatory or Augusta for whale watching (seasonal).
Exmouth (3 days)
Why visit? A hidden gem on Australia’s Coral Coast, Exmouth is the perfect base for exploring Ningaloo Reef, where marine life thrives.
Snorkel with whale sharks or manta rays at Ningaloo Reef, walk through Cape Range National Park and unwind on Turquoise Bay’s pristine beaches.
Day trips:
Coral Bay for snorkeling tours or Yardie Creek for a boat cruise through the gorge.
Broome (4 days)
Why visit? Broome’s red cliffs, turquoise waters and rich pearling history make it a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Watch the sun set over Cable Beach on a camel ride, learn about the town’s pearling history and marvel at the Staircase to the Moon phenomenon if visiting at the right time.
Day trips:
Horizontal Falls for an epic jet boat adventure or Dampier Peninsula for Aboriginal culture and pristine beaches.
Need to know
Ready to start planning your Aussie adventure? I’ve explored every corner of this beautiful country and would love to help you put together the perfect itinerary, whether you're into the cities, the beaches or the wild outdoors. Get in touch and together we can make it happen!
Travel Advisor
Maren Marcelis
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