Where should I go in Australia?

To help you find exactly what you're after, our Aussie specialists have uncovered hidden gems and hot tips that will make your trip unforgettable.

From iconic landmarks to secret spots only locals know about, our guide will show you where to go and what to see to get the most out of your Australian adventure. Dive into our expert recommendations and explore Australia like never before!

Gold Coast. Best for beaches

The great thing about Australia’s Gold Coast is that it does exactly what is says on the tin, hence why the beaches — or the coast for want of a better word — is a glorious shade of gold. AKA The Gold Coast — they don’t over complicate things in Oz-land.

There’s no limit to the glorious golden beaches that tickle the fringes of Australia’s east coast, with 57 kilometres of shoreline, there’s a little stretch of sand for everybody. Surfers Paradise is without doubt the most populous beach; with a relaxed vibe and gorgeous, gregarious Aussies.

Perfect for independent travellers and the young or young at heart, whereas Kurrawa Beach at Broadbeach is a great all-rounder due to its plentiful facilities, including beach volleyball and lifeguards. And then there’s Mermaid Beach; less crowded and a bit more chilled. Families like it here for the picnic tables, playground and safer swimming.

Adelaide. Best for wining & dining

Taste the world-famous wine regions only minutes from the city or indulge in award-winning restaurants in the heart of Adelaide.

Vineyards define South Australia; yes this is where Jacob’s Creek first set up shop, but it’s also home to some of the oldest vines in the world. Keep an eye out for the short and gnarly ones (look a bit like Yoda) because they’re the golden oldies. Then there are the numerous cycle tracks that weave between vineyards and provide the perfect opportunity to knock at cellar doors and lock lips with a fine glass of Sav. 

Melbourne. Best for art & culture

Melbournians can’t move for art, culture and hip happenings. Well not quite, but it’s true that they’re pros at providing new and novel things to see, do and partake in.

For traditionalists, the National Gallery of Victoria has been wow-ing art-seekers since 1861, making it Australia’s oldest public art gallery and a top-spot for truly remarkable art pieces. On the flip side there’s the Gertrude Glasshouse which displays national and international modern artwork exploring risk-taking and new ideas.

If you really want to experience Melbourne's gritty art scene, there’s the incredible street art; these works of graffiti mastery need to be seen to be believed. If you’re not quite sure where to start, Melbourne Street Art Tours take you to hidden underground treasures, with the opportunity to meet the street artists and discuss their work.

Sydney. Best for shopping

Warning: Reforming shopaholics fall off the wagon in Sydney. As Australia’s premier shopping mecca there’s an opportunity to max-out your credit card at every corner, from the CBD’s colossal department stores, Myer and David Jones, to high street favourites such as Zara, Sportsgirl and H&M.

Sydney oldest precinct comes to life every Saturday and Sunday with The Rocks Markets. The cobbled lanes are packed with over 200 stalls selling delicious food, and arts and crafts, including Aboriginal art prints and artisan candles. You can’t beat the stunning surrounds while you peruse local handcrafted garments.

The Saturday Rozelle Market serves vintage treasures on a plate. Open from 9am- 3pm, if you’re in the (excuse the pun) ‘market’ for furry moccasins and retro ashtrays, go here. Then polish things off in the Queen Victoria Building (QVB). Taking up an entire inner-city block and boasting 200 stores across five levels, if you’re not engrossed by the goods, you’ll be stunned by the Victorian architecture. 

Sunshine Coast. Best for families

Families are well looked after on the Sunshine Coast. As well as a top selection of family-orientated attractions, such as Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo, UnderWater World and the Ginger Factory, there’s also Aussie World, with over 30 child-friendly rides and the Aussie World Pub for parents.

Between May – November, Strawberry Fields Farm in Palmview provides the perfect excuse to soak up ample sunshine while picking (and devouring) the season’s best strawberries. Children love playing in the tractor playground and finding Sammy, the mischievous Strawberry Elf who hides amidst the plants, while both parents and kids alike don’t turn their nose up at the selection of goodies in the farm’s café – from strawberry cheesecake to strawberry ice-cream and syrupy pancakes, they sure know how to work with their best produce.

Perth. Best for independent travellers

The great thing about Australia’s west coast is the huge dolphin population – they can’t get enough of the place! Dotted along the coastline like a motley crew of bottle nosed ocean-lovers, stop to take a cruise or kayaking trip in the warm waters of Mandurah. 

From here you can continue to Geographe Bay, with talcum-powder sand and pretty white boats that freckle the turquoise water. There's also a dinky-cute jetty that pokes into the sea. Then there’s Ngilgi limestone cave and if you’re travelling between September and December, the potential to go whale watching. Finish in Margaret River where you’ll be rewarded with an ample supply of food, wine and beer.

Inspired to explore the wonders of Australia? From vibrant cities to breathtaking natural landscapes, Australia has it all. Connect with one of our Australia specialists today to start planning an unforgettable adventure down under!