The Best Things to Do in Australia

The best things to do in Australia are as varied as the diverse destinations scattered across this enormous country. From the tropical islands and coral reefs of North Queensland to the iconic landmarks and streets of Sydney, there’s an endless array of activities for every interest.

Whether you want to see endemic wildlife, venture into the Outback, learn about Aboriginal culture, taste the best local wines, hit the beach or check out the most famous Australian sights to see, we’ve got you covered. Here are our picks for the 10 best things to do in Australia.

The Great Barrier Reef is absolutely among the must-see attractions in Australia – discover the full range of activities available to you in our guide to visiting. Grab a snorkel and fins to explore the thriving underwater ecosystems of the world’s largest barrier reef. You can also go scuba diving for an even more immersive and in-depth experience.

Need to know: The Great Barrier Reef covers around 133,000 square miles (344,000 square kilometres) and is home to more than 9,000 marine species. Your travel designer can help you choose hotels and activities which contribute to conserving this astounding spectacle.

A place of immense natural beauty and spiritual significance, Uluru is a massive monolith in the middle of the Outback. Although it’s impressive at any time of day, we highly recommend a tour at dawn, when the rock seems to change colour under the soft light of the rising sun. Stay at Longitude 131º nearby for the best views and easy access.

Need to know: Uluru is part of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, along with the domed rocks of Kata Tjuta – another spot well worth a visit.

Located in North Queensland just a few hours’ drive from Cairns, the Daintree Rainforest is full of scenic trails, thundering waterfalls, natural swimming pools and unique wildlife – think crocodiles and cassowaries (large flightless birds). You can explore it on foot or by boat, and get a bird’s eye view on canopy walks and thrilling zip lines.

Need to know: The best time to go hiking in the Daintree Rainforest is during the dry season (May to October), although the wet season (November to April) offers beautiful scenery.

The Barossa Valley is considered one of the world’s best wine-producing regions. Head to South Australia to see – and taste – it for yourself. Located inland from Adelaide, this area boasts lovely vineyards and wineries where you can enjoy tours and tastings, plus organic produce and artisanal cheese to pair with the local shiraz.

Need to know: The Louise is one of the world’s best vineyard hotels and the perfect home base for exploring the Barossa Valley’s more than 150 different wineries.

Bondi Beach is a small seaside neighbourhood in Sydney with a crescent of golden sand and some of the world’s best waves. It’s a fantastic place to have a surf lesson and catch your very first wave – or paddle out to the lineup if you’re already an experienced surfer. You can also learn about the origins of surf lifesaving: a combination of lifeguarding and athletic competition.

Need to know: Summer (December to February) is the high season at Bondi Beach; however the shoulder seasons (March to May and September to November) also offer good weather with fewer visitors.

The Top End is home to one of Australia’s best national parks: Kakadu. Here you can hike through grassy woodlands and wetlands to see waterfalls, billabongs and all manner of wildlife – including both freshwater and saltwater crocodiles. Make sure to check out the ancient rock art at Ubirr and Burrungkuy, which provides invaluable insight into Aboriginal history.

Need to know: We suggest visiting Kakadu National Park between May and October, when the drier weather allows you to explore the full scope of the park.

The Outback offers all kinds of incredible things to do, from hiking and canyoning to 4WD safaris and luxury train rides. But we’re particularly partial to the world-class stargazing experiences you can have here. Beyond simply gazing up at the night sky, you can also see the stunning Field of Light art installation and enjoy a magical dinner among the dunes.

Need to know: Enhance your stargazing experience with insights from an expert astronomer who will explain the various constellations and celestial bodies you can spot.

Set just off the coast of South Australia near Adelaide, Kangaroo Island is one of the top Australian attractions for wildlife lovers. Here you can see kangaroos, of course, but also koalas, wallabies, sea lions, seals and even penguins. Places like Lathami Conservation Park and Seal Bay Conservation Park allow you to observe the animals without disturbing them. 

Need to know: You can easily reach Kangaroo Island with a short flight from Adelaide or ferry ride from Cape Jervis on the mainland.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Sydney, but certain spots simply can’t be missed. Visit the instantly recognisable Sydney Opera House and climb the Harbour Bridge for the best views of the city and its surroundings. In the historic neighborhood of the Rocks you can learn about the city’s origins, visit art museums and sample some of Sydney’s finest cuisine.

Need to know: If you visit in winter (June–August) you might catch Vivid Sydney: a festival that promotes creativity and innovation with incredible light installations, live music and more.

Tasmania has some of the most pristine and picturesque landscapes in Australia. You can see them for yourself on hikes through Freycinet National Park, famous for the sweeping Wineglass Bay; Tasman National Park, known for its staggering sea cliffs; and Mount Field National Park, boasting one of Australia’s most incredible waterfalls.

Need to know: No trip to Tasmania is complete without a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can see endemic Tasmanian devils and learn about efforts to protect them.