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

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 many amazing cities in Australia, it’s hard to choose where to visit; there’s just so much to explore, especially if you plan on staying for a long time with a working holiday visa. In this blog, I’ll guide you through 8 fantastic places to stay and the best activities in each city. Are ya ready for an unforgettable journey down under?

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1. Canberra

Welcome to Canberra – Australia’s cool, quirky capital! Often overshadowed by Sydney and Melbourne, this city is a hidden gem packed with surprises. From world-class museums and funky street art to trendy cafes and massive parks, Canberra is the perfect blend of brains and beauty. It’s also super easy to get around, too!

Whether you’re into science, history, adventure, or just relaxing by a lake with some good food, Canberra’s got you covered. You can check out a real dinosaur at the National Museum, watch kangaroos hop around in the wild, or snap photos from the top of Telstra Tower. Canberra is fun, fresh, and full of experiences you won’t forget – so get ready to explore Australia’s capital like never before!

View of the capital city, Canberra. Credit: Steve (Adobe)

Best Areas To Stay In Canberra

City centre. Staying in Canberra’s city centre will keep 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. If you’re on a budget, check out the Ramada Hotel.

Manuka & Kingston. For a more relaxed and upscale experience in Canberra, 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. 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!

Fun Things To Do In Canberra

2. Sydney

Welcome to Sydney, Australia, where sunshine, surf, and stunning sights come together! Whether you’re snapping pics of the world-famous Sydney Opera House, riding the waves at Bondi Beach, or exploring cool neighbourhoods like Newtown and Surry Hills, there’s always something exciting to do. With its chill vibes and vibrant culture, Sydney is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

From koalas and kangaroos at wildlife parks to epic views from the top of the Harbour Bridge, Sydney is packed with unforgettable experiences. You can hop on a ferry, grab fish and chips by the beach, or just soak up the sun in one of the city’s many green spaces. No matter what kind of trip you dream of, a solo trip or with friends, Sydney brings the fun, the flavour, and the good vibes!

Sydney brings a quirky vibe

Best Areas 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. 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 Darling Harbour and is 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 with a swimming pool, only 5 minutes away from Bondi Beach. For backpackers, The Village Bondi Beach has great rates and is only 100 meters from the beach.

Fun Things To Do In Sydney

At the UNESCO Blue Mountains in Sydney

3. Darwin

Darwin is the tropical capital of the Northern Territory and home to some of the best landscapes in the South Island. Known for its multiculturalism, Darwin has more than 60 nationalities residing there. It’s warm year-round (yep, even in winter), so whether you’re into swimming in waterfalls or chilling by the beach, this place has your perfect sunny day covered.

What makes Darwin extra awesome? It’s a melting pot of cultures, especially influenced by its strong Aboriginal heritage and Southeast Asian connections. You can taste it in the food, hear it in the music, and feel it at local festivals. There’s even a competition that runs all year in Darwin called the Million Dollar Fish. So if you’re into crocs, culture, and some of the coolest sunsets you’ll ever see, Darwin is calling your name!

Darwin offers serenity and the best landscapes

Best Areas 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.

The Esplanade. The Esplanade is a beautiful location overlooking the Darwin Waterfront and is great for a stroll. 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 also near the Fremantle Markets!

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.

Things To Do In Darwin

4. Brisbane

Say hello to Brisbane, Australia’s sunny and laid-back river city! Located right in the heart of Queensland, this vibrant destination is bursting with energy, creativity, and friendly vibes. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures like Steve Irwin’s famous Australian Zoo, cool street art, or just want to chill by the river with a smoothie in hand, Brisbane has something for everyone.

Brisbane isn’t just pretty, it’s packed with fun. The city’s mix of old and new, from historic buildings to futuristic bridges, makes exploring super exciting. With nearly year-round sunshine, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the Aussie lifestyle—think rooftop bars, weekend markets, and breezy afternoons in lush green parks. It’s also the perfect place to explore as a solo traveller, so add it to your travel itinerary!

Brisbane city and river views. Credit: Matt Murray (Adobe)

Best 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 cool self-contained accomodation 100 metres from Brisbane River. It has an indoor swimming pool, gym, and sauna, making your stay in Brisbane super comfortable. 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 along the Brisbane River to 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 a kitchen, a balcony, a hot tub, a sauna, and an on-site fitness centre. It also features an infinity pool and a picnic area with BBQ, making this stay super fun and ideal.

Fun Things To Do In Brisbane

5. Adelaide

Add Adelaide to your travel itinerary! This chilled, culture-packed capital of South Australia might be small, but it packs a punch! This laid-back city is full of surprises, from buzzing street art and cool cafes to white-sand beaches just a tram ride away. It’s nicknamed the ’20-minute city’ because everything is easily accessible within 20 minutes, from the airport to the beach to the city centre!

Get ready to explore massive open parks, snap pics in the colourful Adelaide Central Market, or hop between rooftop bars and local boutiques. With wildlife encounters, weekend road trips to wine country, and some of the best food in Australia, Adelaide will make you feel right at home. Whether you’re into music festivals or beach sunsets, Adelaide has something for everyone without the big-city chaos.

Views across Adelaide. Credit: trappy76 (Adobe)

Best Areas 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: The Oval Hotel is an epic 5-star premium hotel with a boujee vibe and classy rooms. It’s designed for relaxation and provides top-notch services. Alternatively, Tequila Sunrise Hostel is a great choice for budget-friendly travellers with breakfast and dinner included!

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 self-contained accommodation, with some rooms featuring a spa bath. Several restaurants surround the cottages, and they are within a short distance of the main attractions. Or, 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 fun 5-star beachfront resort with an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a cocktail lounge, and a gaming room. So cool! .

Fun Things To Do In Adelaide

6. 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 Australia travel itinerary – Hobart has your name all over it!

A fun fact about Hobart is that, 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. Whether you’re there for the views or the vibes, Hobart is an incredible city not to miss on your travels.

Sunset views of Pinnacle Shelter in Horbat

Best Areas To Stay In Hobart

Hobart Waterfront (Sullivan’s Cove). 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. 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 Sullivan’s 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 gives vibes! This boujee place is great for those wanting a comfortable place to return after a long day’s adventure.

Sandy Bay. Sandy Bay is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more residential vibe in Hobart. It’s located near the University of Tasmania, has great attractions, and offers various 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 a budget-friendly place to stay.

Fun Things To Do In Hobart

7. Melbourne

Welcome to Melbourne, which is ranked the ‘Most Liveable City in the World’ year after year. It’s a fabulous city where creativity, culture, and coffee come together in amazing ways! Whether you’re wandering down colourful laneways full of street art or watching street performers at Federation Square, Melbourne knows how to keep things fun and fresh. It’s a city where no two days feel the same.

What really makes Melbourne awesome is its vibe; it’s super friendly, a little bit artsy, and always buzzing with energy. Love food? You’ll be spoiled with everything from world-class dumplings to the ultimate burger joints. Into sports or live music? This city lives for big events and local gigs. Melbourne isn’t just a place to visit — it’s a place to dive into, explore, and totally fall in love with!

Sunset over the Yarra River, Melbourne, Australia. Credit: Leonid Andronov (Adobe)

Best Areas 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 in the CBD ranges from luxury hotels to serviced apartments catering to various budgets.

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. Alternatively, Space Hotel offers a mix of luxury 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.

Recommends: WRAP on Southbank is a stylish, spacious apartment ideal for those wanting to escape the noise. Most rooms feature a kitchen and balcony, and a gym is on-site.

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 cafe and bar scene. Fitzroy offers a more bohemian and alternative atmosphere, making it popular among creatives and hipsters.

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!

Fun Things To Do In Melbourne

8. 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 to travel to. It’s a great adventure for all types of travellers, whether as a mum-and-daughter trip or as a solo getaway!

Cool bridge to visit in Perth. Credit: Bruce Aspley (Adobe)

Best Areas To Stay In Perth

Perth City Centre. 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, and is the most popular place for first-time visitors to stay.

🩵 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. Alternatively, Hostel G Perth is perfect for those on a tighter budget.

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 and panoramic city skyline views.

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, laid-back vibe along the Swan River. Its indoor and outdoor pools are perfect for those wanting scenic views during their stay.

Best Things To Do In Perth

That’s A Wrap!

Australia is packed with epic cities, each with its own unique vibe and adventures waiting to happen. Whether you’re snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns, road-tripping from Adelaide, or soaking up the laid-back charm of Hobart, every stop adds a new layer to your Aussie experience.

No matter where you go, you’ll find friendly locals, jaw-dropping nature, and unforgettable moments. So grab your sunnies, charge your camera, and get ready to explore the best of what Australia has to offer. These eight cities aren’t just places to visit — they’re stories you’ll tell long after your travels! You ready?