Introduction
Australia is a huge country that has so much to offer visitors. From world-famous landmarks to stunning natural wonders, there are many amazing places you must see when you visit Australia. Read on as we look at the top 10 most popular places to visit in Australia and what makes them special. Whether you love beaches, cities, wildlife or the Outback, there is something here for everyone to enjoy.
1. Sydney Opera House
The first place on our list that you absolutely must visit when you are in Australia is the iconic Sydney Opera House. This unique and visually striking building is located on Sydney Harbour right in the heart of the city. It was completed in 1973 and was even named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can take a guided tour of the interior of the Sydney Opera House to learn more about its design and architecture. Make sure your camera is charged because you will want to get lots of photos of the distinctive sail-like roof from different angles. At night, the white shells are usually lit up and look gorgeous reflecting off the harbour waters.
2. Great Barrier Reef
Next, we come to one of the great natural wonders of the world – the Great Barrier Reef. Stretching for over 1,400 miles off the northeastern coast of Australia, this is the largest coral reef system on the planet.
You can access the reef from various spots along the coast. The prime way to experience its beauty is by taking a snorkeling or scuba tour. This allows you to swim through the crystal clear waters and see the incredibly diverse marine wildlife up close, from tropical fish to sea turtles. The vibrant colours of the corals and sea creatures make it an unforgettable experience.
3. Uluru/Ayers Rock
One of Australia’s most recognizable landmarks, and a sacred site for indigenous people, is the enormous sandstone rock formation known as Uluru or Ayers Rock. Located in the Northern Territory in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, this stunning monolith reaches 1,100 feet into the sky.
You can walk around the base of Uluru on marked trails to admire the impressive structure from different angles. Make sure you stay for sunset when the red hues of the rock are at their most vibrant. There are also several vantage points in the park to watch the sun rise over Uluru for a breathtaking sight.
4. Melbourne
The next entry on our list takes us south to Melbourne, regularly rated one of the world’s most livable cities. With its eclectic mix of Victorian architecture, extensive gardens and tram network, Melbourne offers visitors a vibrant and cultured experience. You can shop and dine on the cosmopolitan alleyways and arcades that meander off the main streets in the Central Business District. Wander the narrow laneways lined with colorful street art, hip cafes and hidden bars.
Be sure to visit sights like Federation Square, Queen Victoria Market, the Royal Botanic Gardens, the National Gallery of Victoria and take a ride on the free City Circle Tram. Melbourne’s diverse multicultural population means the food scene is excellent with cuisine from around the globe.
5. Bondi Beach
What list of top places to visit in Australia would be complete without one of the country’s most iconic beaches – Bondi! This beautiful golden sand crescent beach curves around Sydney’s coastline and offers some of the best swimming and surfing you will experience. Even if you don’t plan to get in the water, Bondi is a wonderful place to soak up the classic Aussie beach lifestyle.
You can take an early morning walk along the promenade and watch the serious surfers and lifeguards prepare for the day. Spend time relaxing on the sand, going for lunch at one of the many beachfront eateries or browsing the shops and boutiques. Make sure you stick around to enjoy the sunset over the Pacific Ocean with Bondi’s famous Norfolk Pines framing the view.
6. Kakadu National Park
Covering more than 7,500 square miles in the Northern Territory, Kakadu National Park provides visitors with jaw-dropping natural beauty and important indigenous history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been managed by Aboriginal people for over 50,000 years. Rock art galleries with over 10,000 paintings offer an insight into ancient spirits, myths and stories.
In addition to the historic cultural aspect, you can enjoy the amazing biodiversity as you hike gorges, wetlands and escarpments. Kakadu is home to over 60 different mammal species so you may spot wallabies, flying foxes and crocodiles! Over 280 bird species have been recorded in the park so bring your binoculars. The contrasting landscapes are sure to leave a lasting impression from waterfalls and monsoon forests to sweeping floodplains covered in vibrant wildflowers after the wet season rains.
7. Blue Mountains
Just 90 minutes northwest of Sydney, you can experience the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains. A highlight is viewing the iconic Three Sisters rock formation rising up from Jamison Valley. You can also hike through lush rainforest and take in the cascading waterfalls as part of a day trip from Sydney or stay longer to go canyoning, mountain biking or relax at a bed and breakfast.
At Echo Point Lookout, the panorama of deep gorges, towering sandstone pillars and eucalyptus forest that seem to fade to a blue haze in the distance is unforgettable. Ride the glass-floored cable car across Jamison Valley for a unique perspective of these magnificent surroundings. The fresh mountain air will reinvigorate you during your visit to the Blue Mountains.
8. Whitsunday Islands
On the north-eastern coast of Queensland awaits tropical paradise – the Whitsunday Islands. This stunning archipelago encompasses 74 islands of lush rainforest, glorious white sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs. You can spend your days snorkeling above dazzling underwater life, hiking to breathtaking lookout points or simply soaking up the sun on picturesque beaches.
Many visitors choose to explore the islands over a few days aboard a chartered yacht or sailing boat, allowing you to find your own deserted piece of paradise each evening. Don’t miss Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island often rated as one of the top beaches in the world with its white silica sand and turquoise waters.
9. Byron Bay
Further south along the east coast takes us to Byron Bay, arguably Australia’s most famous beach town. Its chilled out vibe and beautiful beaches attract visitors from far and wide hoping to learn to surf or just embrace the laidback lifestyle. You can try stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking or scuba diving with sea turtles. Like any quintessential Aussie beach destination, Byron Bay also has world-class cafes and restaurants as well as boutique shopping.
Make sure you head to the iconic Cape Byron lighthouse on the most easterly point of the Australian mainland and climb to the top for sublime ocean views. Time your visit for the summer months to experience the electric atmosphere as backpackers, families and celebrities alike flock to Byron Bay over the holidays.
10. Perth and Western Australia
Last on our list is the capital of Western Australia - Perth. This vibrant, sunny city combines urban attractions with a relaxed outdoor lifestyle on the banks of the winding Swan River. You can explore Kings Park overlooking the city, walk the beautiful beaches, enjoy museums and art galleries and sample fresh local food at amazing cafes and restaurants. Many visitors to Perth use the city as a gateway to explore the natural wonders of Western Australia’s vast landscapes and coastline.
Head south to wander through valleys of towering Karri trees, west to snorkel with wild dolphins and sea lions along the Turquoise Coast islands or north to swim at the stunning beaches and gorges of the Coral Coast and Ningaloo Reef. You may even spot humpback whales during their annual migration!
Conclusion
As you have read, Australia has an abundance of spectacular destinations for visitors to discover. From the exhilarating big cities like Sydney and Melbourne to the remote wonders of Kakadu and Uluru, you will be spoilt for choice. Whether you want to relax on world-class beaches, see native wildlife up close or learn about indigenous history and culture, there are so many incredible places you can visit across Australia. With this list of the top 10 most popular places as your guide, start planning your ideal trip full of amazing experiences today!