If you’re an infrequent traveller or just don’t get to Australia much, then you’ll need to make the most of your trip down under. There are certain places that you simply cannot miss, tips you’ll need to survive the harsh outback and of course experiences you really need to have. Here are my top tips for travelling throughout this wonderful country.
Sydney
Of course, a trip to Australia isn’t complete without a long stopover in Australia’s most iconic city, Sydney. Throughout your trip to Australia, you’ll most likely be hanging around a LOT of beaches. But some of Sydney’s really shouldn’t be missed, like surfing at Bondi Beach. You’ll also need to check out Port Jackson Harbour, take in a show at the Sydney Oprah House and of course take a walk up the Sydney Harbour Bridge to get some truly amazing photographs of your journey.
Melbourne
A trip to Melbourne isn’t complete without a walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens, with its riverside mix of native and exotic plants. Melbourne is somewhat considered the style capital of Australia, so be sure to check out the shops in Melbourne City Centre and Queen Victoria Market. Old Melbourne Gaol is also not to be missed for foreigners, learn about Australia’s convict history while you’re here and of course you simply can’t stopover in Melbourne without hitting the Great Ocean Road, getting a close view of koalas, taking in some of Australia’s best camping spots and of course, there’s parachuting in the Yarra Valley for the more adventurous types and wine-lovers.
Hobart
If you’re travelling through Tasmania, my first tip is to get yourself a campervan or trailer to explore Tassie’s beautiful east coast. When it comes to natural wonders, nothing beats Tasmania. In Hobart, you can’t miss the iconic Salamanca Markets, just outside Parliament House. This is the perfect opportunity to get your loved ones back home some gifts from your travels. The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is a relatively new museum in Hobart that has really put Hobart on the not-to-be-missed map. It’s simply a must, whether you’re an art appreciator or not, there’s something for everyone.
Perth
When you’re in Perth, don’t miss out on some awesome educational activities, including Scitech, planetarium, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, Western Australia Museum, Perth Mint and of course Fremantle Prison. Don’t worry, it’s a former prison only, with exhibits on prison life in Australia. For nature lovers, don’t forget to stop by Kings Park, an expansive public parkland with memorials and Swan Valley for the wine lovers.
Adelaide
When in Adelaide, you’ll have plenty of sites to see, with some beautiful old sandstone architecture, including the Art Gallery of South Australia, founded in 1881. For other ways to learn about Adelaide’s history, check out the Migration Museum of Adelaide, the South Australian Museum and the Adelaide Botanic Gardens. For the nature enthusiasts, take a trek through Cleland Conservation Park with hiking and walking trails with scenic vistas, and pack a picnic lunch for outside Victoria Square.
Brisbane
Pack your sunscreen and reapply every half hour when you explore Brisbane. Check out the City Botanic Gardens on your way to cuddle koalas at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Hike up Mount Coot-tha to check out the spectacular waterfalls and botanic gardens before taking some snaps at the lookout. Then go for a dip at South Bank Parklands, complete with public lawns, gardens and swimming areas (trust me, you’ll want to go for a swim to cool down when you’re in Brisbane).
Canberra
As Australia’s capital, there’s no better place to learn about our national heritage than Canberra. Visit the Australian War Memorial to learn about Australia’s military history, visit the old and new Parliament Houses, after cycling around Lake Burley Griffin. There are many museums and galleries in Australia’s capital but there’s one place in particular that you simply can’t miss and that’s Questacon. Perfect if you’re bringing kids along, Questacon is an interactive kids (great for the grownups as well) science and tech museum.
Darwin
Don’t forget Darwin on your trip around Australia. Check out the beautiful Mandil Beach. Soak up some Aussie history at Parliament House, Government House and Darwin Military Museum. You also can’t miss out on going to the Charles Darwin National Park, Bicentennial Park or the George Brown Botanic Garden with ornamental and scientific tropical gardens.