You Have to Go Here! 9 of the Best Places to Visit in Australia
Ranked as the sixth-largest country, Australia is a great place to explore. But because of its massive size — spanning 2.97 million miles — it can be impossible to decide where exactly to visit.
While any place you choose is bound to have amazing sights and culture, there are a few places that rise above the rest.
Keep reading for a list of the best places to visit in Australia.
1. Sydney
When you think of Australia, what's the first image that comes to mind? For many people, the iconic Sydney Opera House is the image they see.
Built-in the 1950s, the Sydney Opera House combined architecture with sculptural elegance, making it a symbol of the 20th century. If you're in the area, make sure you at least drop by to admire the architecture — and better yet try to see a show here.
While you're in Sydney, you can also check out the Syndey Harbour Bridge and pay a visit to the National Maritime Museum.
2. Perth
Perth is one of the greatest places to visit in Western Australia. This Western Australia capital is located on the coast, making it a great place to enjoy the sandy beaches.
Outdoor lovers will enjoy all the parks, biking trails, and nature tours. The more adventurous can try their hand at sandboarding or embark on a Koala sighting tour. If you're looking for something more relaxed, try a sunset stargazing tour.
3. Melbourne
Wondering where to go in Australia? Why not plan a trip to Melbourne.
Melbourne offers a classy atmosphere, complete with fine-dining and endless shopping. Named Australia's Coffee Capital, find out why this city considers coffee more of an art form than a beverage by visiting any of the local cafes.
Melbourne also has a great nightlife, making it the perfect location for any hens party. Spend your evening at a burlesque show, participating in a twerking class, or even a winery tour.
4. Great Barrier Reef
No trip is complete without visiting one of Australia's top tourist areas — the Great Barrier Reef.
The great barrier reef is the world's largest coral reef. If you've never snorkeled or scuba dived, there's no better place to get your feet wet. Spend hours gazing at all the amazing coral types and the unique ecosystems they provide for other ocean creatures.
Sadly, due to climate change, experts aren't sure how much longer the Great Barrier Reef will exist. If you want to see this amazing wonder, make sure to plan your trip soon.
5. Cairns
If you want a little more to do than just snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, make the short jump over to Cairns.
This town has something for everyone as it is a beach destination surrounded by rainforests. Spend your morning enjoying the turquoise waters and observing ocean life. Then, enjoy your afternoon with a hike through the rainforest.
Don't leave without a guided horseback tour of the beaches!
6. Kangaroo Island
What good is a trip Down Under without a few Kangaroos in the mix? To really make the most of your Australian exploration, make a stop at Kangaroo Island.
This island is unique and often referred to as a "zoo without fences." Along with the obvious kangaroos, you'll find yourself up close and personal to a variety of wildlife. Some of the more common animal sightings are sea lions, echidnas, and koalas.
Island visitors can also enjoy activities like adventure caving and quad biking.
7. Daintree Rainforest
The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest existing rainforest in the world. But what makes this attraction even more unique, is the genuine eco-tourism experience.
Australians are fully aware that rainforests are quickly disappearing. Because of that, this rainforest is protected under a World Heritage listing.
You can take a tour guided by an authentic indigenous rainforest resident. They will give you an inside look at the natural wonders of nature and how a rainforest differs from other ecosystems. There are very few opportunities like this available in the world.
8. Kakadu National Park
Kakadu National Park is Australia's largest national park — making it a great place for a nomadic getaway. The park is so large, it's almost half the size of Switzerland!
There are always activities going on throughout the park if you want to get involved in the local culture. Spend a day exploring a rock art tour or create your own art after watching a weaving demonstration.
The adventurous explorers can climb escarpments and swim in tropical waterholes. Try your hand at fishing or traditional hunting and gathering with help from a guide.
9. Barossa Valley
Finishing our list of what to see in Australia is Barossa Valley. If you're a wine aficionado, this is the place for you.
Barossa Valley is home to over 150 wineries. The vineyards mostly produce red wines with the most popular Shiraz. But there is always something for white wine drinkers and even non-wine drinkers to enjoy.
And no wine-centric town would be complete without fine dining. Barossa values home-grown products and bold flavors, making for some of the best meals Australia has to offer.
Travel to the Best Places to Visit in Australia
Now that you know the best places to visit in Australia, you're ready to start planning your trip to the Down Under.
All that's left to do is pack your bags! But don't worry, we have a whole section of packing tips available on this site. Then, head over to our Travel Guides section to read all our other content related to Australia!
