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 to Australia from London 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?
If you want to go on a solo trip but are unsure where to start, the Female Solo Travel Ebook covers everything you need to know for an epic solo adventure!
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Capital – Canberra
Canberra is the capital of southern eastern Australia. Despite being relatively small, Canberra’s trendy atmosphere is 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 the most popular location to add to your itinerary as a start or end to your journey.
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.
Recommends: Hyatt Hotel Canberra provides an elegant space with a state-of-the-art fitness centre, indoor swimming pool and sauna. This luxury hotel is within a short distance of attractions such as the National Gallery of Canberra. If you’re on a budget, Ramada Hotel offers a slightly cheaper stay than the Hyatt Hotel.
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.
Recommends: East Hotel & Apartments has gorgeous studios and features an on-site fitness centre, bar, and 247 reception. It’s a great base for exploring and gives a ‘home-from-home- feel. For cheaper but boujee alternative apartments to stay at, check out Adina 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.
Recommends: This nice, cool 2-bedroom serviced apartment is boujee and stunningly designed. It has plenty of additional services, making it feel like you have everything you need!
My Hotel Picks:
Things To Do In Canberra
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, also contributes to its popularity. Overall, Sydney caters to various interests and lifestyles, providing something for everyone; Sydney should be on your itinerary.
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.
Recommends: Meriton Suites provides clean, spacious rooms with an indoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a sauna and a hot tub. It’s located directly opposite the World Square Shopping area and is perfect for those looking for things right on their doorsteps. For those on a tighter budget, Wake-Up! Sydney Central Hostel was voted the most popular hostel in 2024 and is a great base to explore.
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.
Recommends: The PARKROYAL Darling Harbour offers views of the Darling Harbour and features a restaurant and fitness centre. It’s a gorgeous place to stay with friendly staff and beautiful surroundings.
Bondi Beach. This world-famous, vibrant beach is located a short distance from the city centre and is the perfect place to enjoy coastal walks and the famous Bondi Beach.
Recommends: For a boujee, open-space stay, Adina Apartment Hotel offers an unforgettable stay. It has a swimming pool and hot tub and is only 5 minutes away from Bondi Beach. This one’s a winner! For backpackers and those on a tighter budget, The Village Bondi Beach has great rates and is only 100 meters from the beach.
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Things To Do In Sydney
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 in the South Island. However, the temperature rarely drops below 30 degrees, making it highly humid. Known for its multiculturalism, more than 60 nationalities reside in Darwin.
Darwin is also popular because of its food delicacy: barramundi, a popular fish species. There’s even a competition that runs all year called the Million Dollar Fish.
Darwin offers serenity and the best landscapes
Places To Stay In Darwin
Darwin Waterfront. The Darwin Waterfront is a popular area for staying. It is known for its scenic views, waterfront promenades, dining and entertainment options, and Stokes Hill Wharf and Wave Lagoon.
Recommends: Mindel Beach & Casino Resort offers a fabulous 5-star experience with plenty of entertainment. It has a private white-sand beach with Darwin’s only swim-up bar. Stay here for an epic getaway!
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.
Recommends: This stunning Freemantle Boutique Accommodation has a boujee interior, a mosaic-floor infinity pool, and a gorgeous courtyard. It is near the Freemantle Markets and the University of Notre Dame, Australia.
Cullen Bay. Cullen Bay is an upscale marina area known for its luxury residences, boardwalks, fishing charters, and various dining options, especially for romantic dinners. It’s a great alternative for visitors seeking a quieter atmosphere.
Recommends: H on Mitchell Apartment Hotel is a more affordable place to stay in Cullen Bay. It has an equipped kitchen, making it convenient for those preferring a ‘home from home’ vibe. You’ll be only 600 meters from the popular Crocosauras Cove and the Darwin Entertainment Center.
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Things To Do In Darwin
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.
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. It’s the heart of the action and the most convenient to explore.
Recommends: Meriton Suites is a self-contained accomodation 100 metres from Brisbane River. It has an indoor swimming pool, gym, and sauna, making your stay in Brisbane super comfortable and convenient. YHA Brisbane Hostel provides a cheaper alternative with clean rooms.
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.
Recommends: Brisbane SkyTower offers UNREAL views and a premium experience. It’s a short walk to restaurants and entertainment districts, where you’ll find places like the Botanic Gardens and Queen Street Mall.
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.
Recommends: Kooii Apartments provides fully equipped rooms with kitchens and balconies. You’ll also find a hot tub, sauna, and fitness centre on-site. It doesn’t stop there! It also features an infinity pool and a picnic area with BBQ, making this stay super fun and ideal.
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Things To Do In Brisbane
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 you should definitely add Adelaide to your itinerary.
Views across Adelaide
Travelling alone but feeling nervous? The How To Travel Solo Ebook has tips for planning safe, confident, and unforgettable adventures!
Places To Stay In Adelaide
Adelaide CBD (Central Business District). Staying in the CBD provides easy access to attractions and amenities within minutes. It is at the heart of the action and is usually the hot spot for travellers visiting Adelaide.
Recommends: Oval Hotel is an epic 5-star premium hotel with a boujee vibe and classy rooms. It’s designed for relaxation and is applauded for going the extra mile to make its guests happy. Tequila Sunrise Hostel is a great choice for budget-friendly travellers. With breakfast and dinner included, this hostel is a winner choice for staying in Adelaide.
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.
Recommends: Adelaide Heritage Cottages offers a self-contained space with some rooms featuring a spa bath. Several restaurants surround the cottages, and they are within a short distance from the main attractions. Check out the Fire Station Inn for a quirky stay.
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.
Recommends: Stamford Grand Adelaide is a 5-star beachfront resort with an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a cocktail lounge, and a gaming room. So cool! Alternatively, the Marion Hotel offers a quirky-sleek space, serving delicious seafood and steak at a mid-range budget.
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Things To Do In Adelaide
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.
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, perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action.
Recommends: Lords Rest Apartments features accomodation with a casino and a patio. Some rooms also have views of the mountains. You’ll be able to visit beaches and the entertainment centre just a short distance away. Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse is the perfect alternative for those on a stricter budget, with different types of rooms and a social setting.
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.
Recommends: Moss Hotel offers gorgeous boutique-type rooms and is giving vibes! This boujee place is great for those wanting a comfortable place to return after a long day’s adventure. Check out the Maritime Museum of Tasmania, just a few minutes away.
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.
Recommends: Mayfair Plaza Hotel offers affordable, spacious rooms in the heart of Sandy Bay’s shopping and dining district. It’s a great base for those looking for budget-friendly, location-perfect stays.
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Things To Do In Hobart
Victoria – Melbourne
Melbourne, ranked the ‘Most Liveable City in the World’ year after year, is a trendy location that is popular with visitors. It is home to incredible street art and a fabulous fashion and entertainment industry, and visitors flock to Victoria to shop.
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. Visiting Melbourne should be a top priority in your travel itinerary!
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.
Recommends: The 5-star Langham Melbourne is a BEAUTIFUL hotel with top-class service and gorgeous rooms. It prioritises wellness, with treatments and spas to recharge you during your stay. Space Hotel offers a mix of luxury and budget and is the best place to stay for those looking to have an epic time without a hefty cost.
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.
Recommends: WRAP on Southbank is a stylish, spacious apartment ideal for those wanting to escape the noise. Most of the rooms feature a kitchen and balcony, and there’s a gym on-site. It’s a great location, with the station just a 12-minute walk.
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 Fitzroy.
Recommends: The boujee Standard X Melbourne is just a short distance from the Melbourne Museum and offers beautiful rooms and evening entertainment. Don’t miss the a la carte breakfast; it’s super delicious!
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Things To Do In Melbourne
Western Australia Perth
Perth, Australia’s sunniest capital, is a laid-back yet vibrant city that perfectly blends urban cool with outdoor adventure. It 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. The city also has plenty of trendy cafes, rooftop bars, lively markets, and the Swan River.
If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a ferry to Rottnest Island and snap a selfie with a friendly quokka! The city also has 19 unique beaches with amazing marine life, making Perth a top spot among visitors.
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.
Recommends: Citadines Terrace Perth is a cosy aparthotel with kitchenettes and spa baths inside. It’s in a great location, within walking distance of art galleries, bars, and entertainment. Check out Hostel G Perth if you’re on a tighter budget but still want to be where the action is.
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.
Recommends: Doubletree by Hilton has gorgeous rooms in Perth’s cultural, dining, and entertainment hub. The hotel features a swimming pool, panoramic city skyline views, and an on-site gym.
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.
Recommends: The Pier 21 Riverside Apartments provide a coastal and laid-back experience along the Swan River. Its indoor and outdoor pools are perfect for those wanting scenic views while being close to popular attractions.
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Things To Do In Perth
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? If you’re looking to travel solo and unsure how to do it, the Female Solo Travel Ebook has you covered!
Planning on exploring Australia for a while? Consider doing a Working Holiday Visa to make money whilst you travel.
