This is a collaborative post.
Blessed with sunshine almost all year-round, Australia is known for bringing excitement, adventure, relaxation, and the opportunity to create special memories. You only have to consider the number of visitors the country receives each year, to understand just how popular a travel destination it is. According to Statista, Australia will receive around 5.37 million visitors by the end of 2023 – a figure that’s predicted to increase continuously between 2024 and 2028, by two million arrivals (+37%).
Australia is divided into six states, each offering visitors a unique experience, and a different insight into what the country has to offer. From music lovers, to nature enthusiasts, there’s something for everyone. It would take you at least a few months to see all that Australia has to offer, but here are seven Australian to add to your travel itinerary for a shorter stay.
Canberra
As the capital city of Australia, it’s not surprising that Canberra tops the list. Believed to be around 110 years old, this ancient city houses much of the country’s rich history, and culture. Highlights include several national monuments, art galleries, and museums. As Canberra was once home to prominent politicians and government officials, the city also has several political landmarks.
Despite its age, Canberra is developing into a thriving metropolis with a lively nightlife, making it the ideal location for visitors who like a bit of the old, and new. However, Canberra is also a great location to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of breathtaking parks; gardens; lakes; low-laying mountain ranges; and natural reserves for when you just long to be at one with nature.
Byron Bay
If you want to catch waves and cool off in the ocean, Byron Bay is the city for you. Laced with idyllic beaches, surf spots, and trendy restaurants and bars, this beachside city is the ideal location in which to simply relax and enjoy the sun. Byron Bay’s laid-back nature and beautiful scenery have made it one of the most popular cities to visit in Australia – not to mention one of the most popular locations for social media-worthy shots!
There are lot of fun things to see and do in Byron Bay. Scuba dive in the Julian Rocks Marine Reserves, or admire the scenic views from Cape Byron’s lighthouse. Alternatively, immerse yourself in Australian culture at one of Byron Bay’s local arts and music festivals.
Adelaide
If you’re looking for a city to give you a literal taste of Australia, Adelaide should be top of your list. As the capital of South Australia state, Adelaide is the fifth largest city in the country, surrounded by Australia’s coast, and wine-growing region. As such, it’s no wonder this bustling city gives off such rich Bohemian and cultural vibes.
Adelaide is the perfect place to explore Australia’s museums, and taste popular Australian foods. You can visit the world-renowned National Wine Centre to experience and taste unique wines, and interact with fellow wine enthusiasts. Additionally, the city has an influx of influence from Europe and Asia, giving it a multicultural atmosphere. This, in turn, has influenced various aspects of the city, including its cuisine. If you travel with food in mind, consider taking a food tour so you can sample the many different delicacies the city has to offer.
Gold Coast
On the whole, Australia enjoys almost year-round sunshine. If you’ll be visiting during the colder months, however – from June until August – the temperature can be a little colder.
That said, if you’ve got your heart set on sunshine, you won’t need to worry about when you travel if you’ll be visiting Australia’s Gold Coast. Located on the southeastern coast of Queensland, this city enjoys warm, sunny weather all year-round. Although it’s often seen as somewhat of a tourist trap, Gold Coast offers various theme parks, including Sea World; Warner Bros Movie World; and White Water World. It’s also the perfect destination for outdoor and water lovers. Besides surfing the seas, you can check out the Gold Coast fishing charter for an exhilarating fishing adventure during your stay. Alternatively, hire a snorkel kit and see what you can spot in the Gold Coast’s azure waters or, if you’re feeling particularly daring, book a scuba diving session instead.
Sydney
Sydney is often the first destination that springs to mind when people think of Australia. While Canberra may be the nation’s capital, Sydney has long stolen the spotlight thanks to its harbour views, golden beaches and instantly recognisable landmarks. The Sydney Opera House is, of course, one of them. Even if you do not manage to catch a performance during your stay, it is still well worth visiting – not least because some of the Sydney’s most scenic restaurants sit just moments away, pairing memorable food with equally impressive views across the harbour.
Sydney’s cultural capital, The Rocks, is another great place to visit if you’re looking for interesting galleries, and museums that showcase the city – and wider country’s – interesting heritage. You can also tour Sydney by ferry, for a refreshing alternative to a traditional tour bus. Or, for a more exclusive and unforgettable perspective, consider a private helicopter charter Sydney visitors often rave about.
Alongside fashion labels, the city also has a strong jewellery scene, where visitors can spot everything from heritage pieces to modern designs, including sustainable options like moissanite rings Australia has become increasingly known for. For shopping fanatics, Sydney is home to some of the best names in fashion, so you can shop until you drop.
Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak to to explore the seas at a slower space, or climb the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and admire the beautiful views from the top.
Hobart
Having begun life as a penal colony, Hobart is today one of Australia’s oldest cities, with numerous diving locations to enjoy on the island of Tasmania. Like Canberra, Hobart houses several historical locations, museums, and art galleries. The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, and the controversial Museum of Old and New Art, are both worth a visit.
Nature lovers can hike up Mount Nelson to enjoy Hobart’s scenic views, looking down over the city and river. During your visit, treat yourself to a meal in one of the local restaurants. And, to make your trip even more memorable, consider camping under the night sky to witness the Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis.
Broome
If you’re looking for a laidback city with little hustle and bustle, Broome could be just the place for you. Lying on the coast of Western Australia, this small, secluded city is home one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches, Cable Beach.
If you’ll be heading out for dinner, combine it with a sunset cruise for an unforgettable experience. You can also go whale-watching, and interact with dolphins in the wild. If you prefer being on dry land, you can watch the sunset while riding a camel down the beach instead.
Australia is a timeless destination; it never seems to go out of fashion and, regardless of when you’ll be visiting, you’re bound to enjoy your stay. We’ve barely even scratched the surface of the country in this blog post, but hopefully this gives you some inspiration on which cities to add to your Australia travel itinerary.
Which Australian cities do you recommend visiting? Comment below to let me know.
This is a collaborative post.