AUSTRALIA – 8 Popular Cities To Add To Your Travel Itinerary!

Where Will You Choose?

Australia might be the smallest continent, but it’s the sixth-largest country on Earth, about 32 times the size of the UK! Getting here is an adventure in itself, with an average flight time of around 21 hours. This vibrant country is brimming with iconic attractions like the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, and the Blue Mountains, making it a favourite among travellers. Known for its diverse wildlife, thanks to famous figures like Steve Irwin, Australia’s natural wonders are just as equally appealing…or fear-filled.

With eight capital cities, including Canberra, the national capital, there’s so much to explore. In this blog, I’ll guide you through fantastic places to stay and the best activities in each city. Are ya ready for an unforgettable journey down under?

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Australian Capital Territory – Canberra

Canberra is the capital of southern eastern Australia. Despite its relatively small, Canberra exudes a trendy atmosphere surrounded by history, culture, art, and good vibes. Due to its compact size, Canberra offers a range of activities and hidden gems to explore within walking distance or by bike. It is a popular location to add to your itinerary as a start or end to your journey.

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View of the capital city, Canberra

Places To Stay In Canberra

City centre. Staying in the city centre keeps you close to the main attractions and amenities. This area is convenient for visitors exploring the city’s cultural and political landmarks. Various luxury—to budget-friendly hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shopping opportunities are available.

Manuka & Kingston. For a more relaxed and upscale experience, Manuka and Kingston offer boutique shopping, fine dining, and vibrant cafes. This area is also great for outdoor enthusiasts, as Lake Burley Griffin is nearby. Accommodation options here include boutique hotels and serviced apartments.

New Acton. Home to the famous Palace Electric Cinema and the Nishi Building’s architectural marvel, New Acton is a hub for arts and culture. It offers galleries, creative spaces, and unique dining experiences. This trendy and artistic neighbourhood also offers serviced apartments, bringing a flair to Canberra.

My Hotel Picks:

Things To Do In Canberra

Explore Canberra In Two Days: You can see most things in Canberra within two days unless you plan on visiting all the museums; there are many! The main museums and some fantastic breweries are often featured in popular tours.
Canberra City Highlight Tour: Kick off your adventure with the Canberra City Highlight Tour. Start with breathtaking views from the top of Mount Ainslie, offering a stunning panorama of the city. Next, dive into the rich history at the National Capital Exhibition, a small but informative display. Your journey continues with visits to the New and Old Parliament Houses, offering a fascinating glimpse into Australia’s political heritage. Conclude your tour at the Australian War Memorial and the serene National Arboretum. This itinerary packs the best of Canberra into an unforgettable two-day experience!

New South Wales – Sydney

Sydney is the largest and most popular city in Australia. It is known for its famous Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge—one of the world’s most stunning harbours. Bondi Beach, where ‘Home and Away’ was filmed, is also a hotspot.

Overall, Sydney caters to various interests and lifestyles, providing something for everyone; Sydney should be on your itinerary.

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Sydney brings a quirky vibe

Places To Stay In Sydney

Sydney Central Business District (CBD). Home to major attractions, Sydney CBD is the city’s bustling heart. Staying in the CBD is convenient for transportation, making it easy to access other neighbourhoods. You’ll find many luxury hotels with harbour views and budget-friendly hostels here.

Darling Harbour. Darling Harbour is a vibrant waterfront area known for its entertainment options. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be near the water, enjoy waterfront dining, and have easy access to attractions. The area offers a mix of hotels, apartments, and family-friendly accommodations.

Bondi Beach. This world-famous, vibrant beach, located a short distance from the city centre, is the perfect place to enjoy coastal walks and, of course, the famous Bondi Beach. You’ll find a mix of boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and beachfront accommodations.

My Hotel Picks:

Things To Do In Sydney

Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour – HOHO Bus: Hop on the HOHO Bus to experience Sydney like never before! With two routes and 30 stops, you’ll visit primary sightseeing attractions such as Bondi Beach, the Maritime Museum, Chinese Gardens, Shopping Centres, Circular Quay, Hyde Park, and Sydney Tower Eye. It’s an affordable and convenient way to explore the city’s best spots at your own pace.
Discover The Blue Mountains: Add the Blue Mountains to your itinerary for a breathtaking escape. Visit Echo Point to marvel at the ‘Three Sisters’ rock formation and soak in the stunning views of this UNESCO World Heritage National Park. It’s a natural wonder you won’t want to miss.
Unlimited Skyfeast At Sydney Tower: For a dining experience, check out the Unlimited Skyfeast at Sydney Tower. Indulge in over 30 delicious global delicacies and fresh seafood while enjoying spectacular 360-degree rotating city views. It’s the perfect way to spend your evening and a must-add to your Sydney itinerary!

At the UNESCO Blue Mountains in Sydney

Northern Territory – Darwin

Darwin is the tropical capital of the Northern Territory and home to some of the best landscapes. The temperature rarely drops below 30 degrees, making it highly humid. Darwin is known for its multiculturalism, with more than 60 nationalities residing there.

One of the reasons people enjoy visiting Darwin is for its popular food delicacy, barramundi, a popular fish species. There’s even a competition that runs all year called the Million Dollar Fish.

Darwin, Australia. Things To Do. Everything Travel. Forever Living Yes.

Darwin offers serenity and the best landscapes

Places To Stay In Darwin

Darwin Waterfront. Darwin Waterfront is a popular area for staying. It is known for its scenic views, waterfront promenades, and dining and entertainment options. The area is home to the Stokes Hill Wharf and Wave Lagoon. There are a mix of hotels and apartments, many of which have harbour views.

The Esplanade. This beautiful location overlooks the Darwin Waterfront and is a great place for a stroll, with parks and plenty of green space. The Esplanade also hosts the popular Mindil Beach Sunset Market, where you can enjoy street food and arts and crafts while watching the sunset. Accommodation options range from hotels to boutique hotels.

Cullen Bay. Cullen Bay is an upscale marina area known for its luxury residences, boardwalks, fishing charters, and various dining options, especially for those looking for a romantic dinner. It’s a great alternative for visitors seeking a more quieter atmosphere. Cullen Bay offers apartment-styled accomodation and boutique hotels.

My Hotel Picks:

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Things To Do In Darwin

Thrilling Crocodile Jumping Cruise: Darwin is brimming with fantastic activities and tours that promise unforgettable experiences. One of the top attractions is the Crocodile Jumping Cruise, where you’ll watch rescue crocodiles leap out of the river for feeding. It’s a thrilling sight you won’t want to miss!
Top End Helicopter Ride & BBQ: Check out the Top End Helicopter Ride & BBQ for a combo adventure. This tour features the Crocodile Jumping Cruise and takes you soaring over the floodplains on a scenic helicopter ride. You’ll cut through the rainforest on an airboat, enjoy a BBQ brunch on a pontoon boat, and feed the crocodiles. Sounds like a blast, right?
Cage Of Death: Feeling brave? Dive into the Cage of Death for a face-to-face swim with the world’s largest crocodiles. It’s an adrenaline-pumping experience for the bold!
Tiwi Islands Day Tour: For a cultural twist, embark on the Tiwi Islands Culture Day Tour. Explore the Tiwi Islands community of Wurrumiyanga, starting with a 2.5-hour ferry ride. Upon arrival, you’ll experience a traditional Tiwi smoking ceremony, tour the island, and visit the Tiwi Design Art Center. Participate in a cultural screen printing art workshop and create a unique souvenir to take home. This enriching tour is a must-add to your itinerary!

Queensland – Brisbane

Brisbane is another popular city known for its distinctive architecture, outdoor activities, brunches, and buzzing rooftop scenes. It is a fantastic destination to consider if you’re exploring Australia, with some amazing attractions, including Steve Irwin’s famous Australian Zoo.

Brisbane captures the heart of many travels, and it’s easy to see why, so make sure to add it to your itinerary.

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Brisbane city and river views

Areas To Stay In Brisbane

Brisbane City Center (CBD). The CBD is the city’s bustling heart and home to major attractions. Staying in the CBD provides easy access to transportation, making it easy to explore surrounding locations. Many accommodations are available, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and serviced apartments.

South Bank. Located along the Brisbane River, South Bank is a cultural and recreational hub within walking distance of the city centre. This area offers a more relaxed experience and great places to live, from hotels with river views to serviced apartments and family-friendly resorts.

Fortitude Valley. Often called ‘ The Valley,’ Fortitude Valley is Brisbane’s entertainment and nightlife precinct. It’s a vibrant area with a diverse dining scene, live music scene, and thriving arts and cultural community. Boutique hotels, hostels, and apartment-style accommodations are available in this area.

My Hotel Picks:

Things To Do In Brisbane

Moreton Island Tour: A popular tour from Brisbane is the Moreton Island – Dolphin and Tangaloom Wrecks Tour, a day cruise to the paradise of Moreton Island. You’ll snorkel around the Tangaloom Wrecks, watch wild dolphins and turtles, relax on white sandy beaches, and indulge in a delicious king prawn buffet served on board, complete with cocktails. It’s an experience you won’t forget!
Scenic Sunshine Coast Hinterland & Noosa: Another excellent attraction to add to your itinerary is the Sunshine Coast Hinterland and Noosa Tour. This full-day adventure takes you through the Blackall Range’s stunning mountains. You’ll visit the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve for panoramic views of the Glass House Mountains. Afterwards, spend time at the quaint mountain village and explore the Eumundi Markets, Australia’s premier artisan food and art outlet. The pristine beaches at Noosa Heads await you next, a favourite spot for the rich and famous. The tour wraps up with a visit to the delightful Ginger Factory.

South Australia – Adelaide

Adelaide is a small city in Australia known for its festivals, sporting events, stunning coastlines, and vibrancy. Rich with multiculturalism and entertainment, Adelaide provides plenty of opportunities for fun—it’s the perfect getaway for a unique experience.

Adelaide is nicknamed the ’20-minute city’ because everything is easily accessible within 20 minutes, from the airport to the beach to the city centre. It’s a cool place, so add Adelaide to your itinerary!

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Views across Adelaide

Places To Stay In Adelaide

Adelaide CBD (Central Business District). Staying in the CBD allows easy access to attractions and amenities within minutes. The CBD offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, boutique lodges, and serviced apartments.

North Adelaide. North Adelaide is known for its boutique shopping, cafes, and proximity to attractions like the Adelaide Oval and the Adelaide Zoo. It’s a charming and historic neighbourhood, offering a more residential vibe with tree-lined streets and a mix of heritage buildings. You’ll find mainly apartments and boutique hotels in this location.

Glenelg. Located approximately 10km from the CBD in a beachside suburb, Glenelg is a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a coastal atmosphere and a relaxed beach lifestyle. Accommodation options range from beachside hotels to cool hotels.

My Hotel Picks:

Things To Do In Adelaide

Explore Kangaroo Island’s Wildlife Wonders: Discover South Australia’s top nature activity on a trip to Kangaroo Island, where you’ll encounter a colony of rare sea lions at Seal Bay Conservation Park. Walk down a rugged cliff for dramatic views of Admiral Arch and the Remarkable Rocks, and see playful fur seals with long noses. Spend the afternoon at Flinders Chase National Park, a renowned sanctuary for native Australian animals such as kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and echidnas. It’s a wildlife lover’s paradise!
Sip & Savor In The Adelaide Hills: If you enjoy sipping wine – or, like me, indulging in it – you’ll love a trip through the charming village of the Adelaide Hills to the German settlement of Hahndorf. Sample some of the region’s finest wines and immerse yourself in the quaint, historic atmosphere. Add this delightful experience to your itinerary…Thank me later!

Tasmania – Hobart

Hobart, Australia’s second-oldest city, is a popular city known for its world-famous surfing location, Shipstern Bluff, aka Devil’s Point. This location boasts big waves on the shallow reef that reach six meters! If you’re a surfer, this should be on your itinerary. Hobart has your name all over it!

Cool fact about Hobart: In the 1830s, there was only one pub for every 200 people. Today, it is home to great bars and festivities, including the Wooden Boat Festival and the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

Mount Wellington in Hobart, Australia. Things to do. Everything Travel.

Sunset views of Pinnacle Shelter in Horbat

Places To Stay In Hobart

Hobart Waterfront (Sullivans Coves). Sullivans Cove is Hobart’s historic and picturesque waterfront area. It offers stunning views of the harbour and proximity to major attractions. Accommodation options include luxury waterfront hotels, boutique lodgings, and serviced apartments.

Battery Point. Located south of Sullivans Cove, Battery Point is a charming historic neighbourhood known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic cottages. Battery Point offers a tranquil atmosphere with a village-like feel in Hobart. Quaint boutique places and bed-and-breakfast accomodation are available here.

Sandy Bay. Sandy Bay is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more residential vibe near the University of Tasmania. This location has great attractions and offers a mix of dining options. Accommodation options include boutique hotels, apartments, and holiday rentals.

My Hotel Picks:

Things To Do In Hobart

Hop-On-Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus Tour: Begin your adventure with a HOHO Tour to get acquainted with Hobart. It’s a convenient and affordable way to see the main attractions at your own pace, with 20 stops to explore. Don’t miss the Kunanyi/Mount Wellington Explorer Bus Tour, which takes you to the mountain for breathtaking views. It’s a must-do!
Discover Bruny Island: The Bruny Island Tour is another fantastic addition to your itinerary. Enjoy the island’s beauty, history, and delectable foods, including cheeses, fresh oysters, and wood-oven bread for breakfast. Visit the Cape Bruny Lighthouse, Adventure Bay, and the Neck Lookout, then savour a delicious lunch featuring freshly caught fish, beef, lamb, cheeses, chocolates, fudge, and honey. End your day with a relaxing short walk or a paddle in the Tasman Sea.
7-Day Tasmania Highlight Tour: If you want a comprehensive and planned trip, consider Hobart’s 7-day Tasmania Highlight Tour. This tour includes various activities and pre-planned tours, ensuring you experience the best of Tasmania without the hassle of planning. Enjoy the adventure!

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Victoria – Melbourne

Melbourne, ranked the ‘Most Liveable City in the World’ year after year, is a trendy location and popular among visitors. It is home to incredible street art and a fabulous fashion and entertainment industry.

Thanks to its lively events and reputation as Australia’s sporting capital, Melbourne attracts millions of visitors annually and remains a top destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable urban experience. Add Melbourne to your travel itinerary!

Melbourne, Australia. Things To See. Everything Travel.

Sunset over the Yarra River, Melbourne, Australia

Places To Stay In Melbourne

CBD. Staying in the CBD puts you in the heart of Melbourne’s bustling city centre. You’ll be within walking distance of the main attractions and action. Accommodation options in the CBD range from luxury hotels to serviced apartments catering to various budgets. This is the best location if you’re looking for great places to stay.

Southbank. Located just across the Yarra River, Southbank is known for its arts and entertainment precinct and offers stunning views of the city’s skyline. It is a great choice for those interested in theatre, riverside dining, and access to the Crown Melbourne complex, which features a casino and other entertainment options. Riverside hotels and apartments with panoramic views are available.

Fitzroy. Fitzroy is a trendy and artistic neighbourhood located north of Melbourne’s CBD. It’s known for its unique shops, street art, and vibrant café and bar scene. Fitzroy offers a more bohemian and alternative atmosphere, making it popular among creatives and hipsters. You can also enjoy independent boutiques and eateries in Melbourne. Accommodation options include boutique hotels and guesthouses, providing a more local and unique experience.

My Hotel Picks:

Things To Do In Melbourne

Great Ocean Road & Wildlife Tour: The Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour is a must-do for visitors. Marvel at the stunning coastlines, renowned as some of the most spectacular in the world. Highlights include the iconic Torquay Surf Beach, Bells Surfing Beach (viewed from a distance), Apollo Bay, the 12 Apostles from the Gibson Steps, and the breathtaking rock formations at Loch Ard Gorge.
Penguin Parade & Koalas Tour: Another top tour to add to your itinerary is the Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour. Witness hundreds of the world’s smallest penguins return to shore at sunset. Additionally, get up close with koalas on a guided tour of the Koala Conservation Reserve. This 8.5-hour tour is a visitor favourite and an unforgettable experience.

Western Australia Perth

Perth is known as the ‘City of Lights’ and is recognised as a chilled city with great entertainment, from comedy shows to bars and a buzzing nightlife. It also has 19 unique beaches with amazing marine life, making it worth putting Perth on your itinerary.

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Cool bridge to visit in Perth

Places To Stay In Perth

Perth City Center. Staying in the heart of Perth’s city centre provides convenient access to major attractions, shopping, dining, and entertainment. The city centre is also well-connected with public transport, including the free central area transit buses. Upscale hotels and serviced apartments are available here.

Northbridge. Northbridge is known for its vibrant arts and entertainment scene, making it a great choice for those interested in nightlife and cultural experiences. The neighbourhood hosts theatres, art galleries, and numerous bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Accommodation includes hotels and budget-friendly hostels, ideal for those seeking an urban and lively atmosphere.

Fremantle. Located southwest of Perth, Fremantle offers a more relaxed and coastal vibe. The historic port city is known for its well-preserved architecture, including the famous Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also a popular destination for its markets, seafood restaurants, and charming streets. Boutique hotels, guesthouses, and seaside accommodations provide a coastal and laid-back experience.

My Hotel Picks:

Things To Do In Perth

Pinnacles Desert Sunset & Star-Gazing Tour: The number one tour to experience in Perth is the Pinnacles Desert Sunset and Star-Gazing Tour. Indulge in a BBQ and wine amidst the desert landscape as you witness the breathtaking sunset, planets, moon, and the Milky Way. Thrill-seekers can also sandboard on the dunes, and nature enthusiasts can observe native animals in their natural habitat. It’s an unforgettable experience under the stars!
Wave Rock & York Cultural Tour: Add a touch of natural wonder to your itinerary with the Wave Rock and York Cultural Tour. Venture on a day trip from Perth to witness the awe-inspiring Wave Rock and explore the picturesque city of York. This tour promises unforgettable sights and cultural immersion.
Swan River Cruise With Beverages & Live Music: Enjoy the cruise with beverages and a Live Music Tour for a perfect evening out. Cruise along the tranquil Swan River while indulging in a buffet of hot and cold dishes paired with drinks of your choice. With live music to set the mood, it’s the ideal way to dine and unwind in the evening.

That’s A Wrap!

No matter which city you visit in Australia, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty, unique wildlife, and warm hospitality. Australia is an obvious choice, with plenty of places to stay and things to do.

So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of Australia’s main cities. What places will you add to your itinerary?

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