Best of Australia's Cities & National Parks: Sydney, Tasmania & Southern Queensland - 18 Days
Highlights
- Hike the popular Bondi to Coogee Walk along Sydney's coast
- Learn about Tasmanian history at UNESCO-listed Port Arthur
- Explore the stunning beaches of Tasmania's Freycinet National Park
- Drive through the Sunshine Coast Hinterland to the Glass House Mountains
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Sydney, Sunset Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour | Sydney |
| Day 2 | Explore Sydney Harbour by Bike, Visit Luna Park | Sydney |
| Day 3 | Sydney's Coast: Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walkway | Sydney |
| Day 4 | Blue Mountains Day Tour | Sydney |
| Day 5 | Urban Indigenous Cultural Tour, Explore Sydney's Neighborhoods | Sydney |
| Day 6 | The Rocks Walking Tour, Sydney Opera House Tour | Sydney |
| Day 7 | Fly to Hobart, Tasmania | Hobart |
| Day 8 | Pick Up Rental Car, Drive to Port Arthur | Port Arthur |
| Day 9 | Tour Port Arthur Historic Site | Port Arthur |
| Day 10 | Drive to Freycinet National Park, Beach Time | Freycinet |
| Day 11 | Hike to Lookouts Above Freycinet's Bays | Freycinet |
| Day 12 | Drive to Launceston via the Bay of Fires | Launceston |
| Day 13 | Free Day in Launceston | Launceston |
| Day 14 | Fly to Brisbane | Brisbane |
| Day 15 | Drive to the Glass House Mountains & the Sunshine Coast Hinterland | Glass House Mountains |
| Day 16 | Visit the Australia Zoo | Glass House Mountains |
| Day 17 | Drive to Brisbane, Mount Coot-tha Lookout | Brisbane |
| Day 18 | Explore Brisbane's South Bank, Depart Brisbane |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Sydney, Sunset Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour
Welcome to Sydney! After your arrival at the airport, your driver will transfer you to your hotel. Sydney is, of course, a must-visit for every Australia holiday, and for good reason: With a dazzling natural harbor, epic beachside walks (not to mention beaches), a cutting-edge restaurant and bar scene, excellent live music and theater, and an unquenchable thirst for fun, you'll never get bored in this city. Depending on your time of arrival and how much energy you have after the flight, stretch your legs with a walk through the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens.
In the evening, enjoy a deluxe sunset cruise on Sydney Harbour while you dine on a delicious three-course dinner. Admire iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House, Fort Denison, Luna Park, and more, then snap photos as the sun sinks into the harbor and the city skyline lights up for the night.Day 2: Explore Sydney Harbour by Bike, Visit Luna Park
Get a feel for Sydney today while having fun and getting some exercise on a morning cycle tour. Join your guide and fellow travelers on a super easy ride, taking in several must-see areas of the city. Enjoy dazzling harbor views as you pedal past landmarks like Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, the piers at Walsh Bay, Hyde Park, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Later on, unleash your inner kid (and the real kids, if you're traveling with them!) at the heritage-listed Luna Park, just below the northern end of the Harbour Bridge. Head to the Coney Island section, where little ones will love the family-friendly attractions. Have a laugh in the Mirror Maze or steady yourself for the Wonky Walk or Barrels of Fun. Make your way to the Big Dipper, where you'll experience Australia's tallest and fastest rollercoaster. If you prefer more gentle rides, hop onto the Ferris wheel as you travel 131 feet (40 m) in the air and marvel at the views.
Day 3: Sydney's Coast: Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walkway
Sydney is blessed with a long and beautiful coastline, which you'll explore today. The first stop is Bondi Beach, perhaps Australia's most famous beach. This icon of Sydney's laid-back lifestyle is home to one of Australia's oldest swimming clubs, the Bondi Icebergs. Browse the boutique shops along Gould Street and sit down in one of the trendy cafés.
If you like to get active, head out on one of Sydney's loveliest walks, the Coastal Walkway from Bondi to Coogee, taking in beautiful beaches, clifftops, and great cafés along the way. The 3.5-mile (6 km) walk takes two to three hours, depending on how often you stop. Enjoy a swim at each of the beaches, marvel at 2,000-year-old rock carvings at Marks Park, see the fishing boat-lined Gordons Bay, and end at Coogee Beach. If you happen to be traveling in October or November, the largest annual sculpture exhibition in the world, Sculptures by the Sea, illuminates the Bondi to Tamarama section of the walk.
In charming Coogee, you'll find one of Australia's oldest beachside suburbs, with white sands, ocean pools, seaside parks, and sensational views. Check out the rock pools around Coogee Beach and the Giles Baths at the northern end. Just a few minutes walk south of the beach, you'll find two of Sydney's most picturesque ocean pools, the McIver's Ladies Baths (women and children only) and Wylie's Baths.Day 4: Blue Mountains Day Tour
Get out of the city today and head west to the Blue Mountains National Park, one of seven national parks that make up the UNESCO-listed Greater Blue Mountains Area. As you enter this wonderland of sandstone outcroppings, steep ravines, and blue eucalypt forests, your first stop will be at Calmsley Hill, a working farm that's home to kangaroos, emus, wombats, and koalas. Continue past a range of stunning outlooks on the way to Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote spot away from the crowds that offers dizzying views of the famous Three Sisters.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch with great views before visiting a range of other lookout points during the afternoon. Once you see the view from Govetts Leap, you'll know why it's one of the most famous in Australia. The mighty waterfall drops 590 feet (180 m) to the base of the cliff, and the lookout provides a dramatic vista down the valley to the Grose Wilderness. Finally, stop briefly for a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mount Tomah before traveling back to Sydney.
Day 5: Urban Indigenous Cultural Tour, Explore Sydney's Neighborhoods
Today, learn about the world's oldest living civilization on a five-hour Indigenous culture and history tour led by a respected member of the Bundjalung Nation. The experience begins at the Royal Botanic Garden, a green oasis in the city. Here, you'll meet your guide, who will perform a traditional "Welcome to Country" ceremony. Then, embark on a walking tour through the park as your guide reveals the compelling history of the people and plants associated with these gardens, which were established in 1816, making them the oldest in Australia.
After, say goodbye to your guide and continue the tour past the beautiful eastern beaches on the way to an authentic Aboriginal art gallery. See works from some of the most remote Indigenous communities in the country. On the way back, stop for a seafood lunch at one of the beaches.
In the afternoon, you might want to explore some more of Sydney's eclectic neighborhoods. Grab an afternoon pick-me-up coffee in Surry Hills, then head to Darlinghurst, the heart of Sydney's LGBTQ+ community. Centered around the rainbow-colored Oxford Street, it hosts Sydney's epic Mardi Gras celebration every March. For a spot of retail therapy, explore the boutiques of Newtown, the city's bohemian university district. You can also explore Centennial Park, Sydney's version of Central Park. If you're in the city on a Saturday, sift through Paddington Markets and enjoy the historic architecture of the neighborhood.
Day 6: The Rocks Walking Tour, Sydney Opera House Tour
Learn more about Sydney's history this morning on a walking tour of The Rocks, the city's oldest neighborhood located right beside Darling Harbour and the Harbour Bridge. Follow your guide along shady lanes and cobbled courtyards to find some of Sydney's earliest buildings, including Cadmans Cottage, built in 1816, and the Garrison Church, which dates back to the 1840s. You can also enjoy great views over Sydney Harbour and the Campbells Cove Wharves.
After lunch, go behind the scenes at the Sydney Opera House for a fascinating look at this Sydney icon. Take a walking tour through this UNESCO-listed building and listen to your guide's entertaining stories about the Opera House's history. You'll also get access to otherwise off-limits parts of the building that most visitors don't see.
Day 7: Fly to Hobart, Tasmania
After a fantastic week in Sydney, it's time to say goodbye because today you fly to Hobart, the capital of Tasmania. You'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Nestled in the foothills of kunanyi / Mount Wellington, Hobart offers a heady blend of heritage, scenery, and culture, with world-class activities and attractions on its doorstep. After your arrival, take a look around the compact city and make sure you head to Salamanca Place to soak up the atmosphere of Hobart's historical, creative, and cultural heart.
Day 8: Pick Up Rental Car, Drive to Port Arthur
The self-driving portion of your trip begins today as you pick up your rental car and head to Port Arthur on the Tasman Peninsula. Although it's just a 90-minute journey if driven in one go, you'll make a day of it by stopping at many points of interest along the way. Just outside Hobart, charming Richmond offers a glimpse of Tasmania's rich heritage, including the country's oldest bridge and oldest Catholic Church. Sample some of the grapes (and maybe a glass of wine) at the nearby vineyards and local cheese and olives at Coal River Farm. Make sure to drop into the Richmond Lolly Shop for a sweet treat, especially if you're traveling with kids!
En route to Port Arthur, pass through the small fishing village of Dunalley, go over the swinging bridge, and grab some fresh oysters at Murdunna. As you approach the Tasman Peninsula and wind down through Eaglehawk Neck, catch dramatic views across Pirate's Bay to the coastline and surging ocean, then spot the remarkable rock formations of Devil's Kitchen, Tasman Arch, the Blowhole, and Remarkable Cave as you approach your destination for the night.Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 9: Tour Port Arthur Historic Site
Day 10: Drive to Freycinet National Park, Beach Time
Take it easy and continue your trip along the coast today. Stop at Swansea for a taste of freshly made jam at Kate's Berry Farm. From here, it's a 45-minute drive to the seaside holiday village of Coles Bay, a great base for exploring beautiful Freycinet National Park. Stop for a lunch of fresh seafood at Freycinet Marine Farm (don't miss the legendary oysters) before continuing into the national park.
Freycinet National Park is rich in stunning landscapes. Kick back on miles of white sand at Friendly Beaches and the secluded cove of Honeymoon Bay, try snorkeling and diving off the rocky Sleepy Bay or choose one of the many walks.Day 11: Hike to Lookouts Above Freycinet's Bays
Lace up your hiking shoes for some spectacular walks today as you make your way uphill to some of Freycinet National Park's best lookouts. The walk to the famous Wineglass Bay takes around three hours, with the first half of the walk passing the Wineglass Bay Lookout. Don't miss a visit to spectacular Honeymoon Bay—take a packed picnic to unwrap at the shaded day-use area and admire the views of the granite mountains meeting the turquoise water.
If you're after an easy walk, the trail to Cape Tourville Lighthouse is a good option. It offers an overview of the Freycinet Peninsula and is an easy 650-yard (600 m) trail that wraps around the coastline, taking around 20 minutes.
Day 12: Drive to Launceston via the Bay of Fires
Drive 90 minutes north to St. Helens this morning, where you can swim, surf, and tuck into fresh seafood, or follow the one-hour loop walk along the windswept Peron Dunes. From St. Helens, it's a quick drive to Binalong Bay, the gateway to the Bay of Fires. This is an exquisite region of sandy beaches dotted with orange lichen-covered boulders. The name comes from the fact that when English explorer Tobias Furneaux sailed past in the 1770s, he saw fires lit along the coast by the local people.
Make a stop at Bridestowe Lavender Farm, one of Tasmania's most photographed locations, and go for a stroll along its curving rows of fragrant flowers. You'll have fun capturing your own piece of lavender Insta-magic (the best time to visit is December and January). Then continue along the road to Launceston, your stop for the night.
Day 13: Free Day in Launceston
Enjoy a day at leisure today, choosing your own activities in Launceston. In town, you could browse art galleries and museums, including the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery and the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania. A short walk from the city center, you'll find Cataract Gorge on the South Esk River. Cross a suspension bridge above the water or ride the world's longest single-span chairlift for dizzying views.
If you're keen to explore more of the region, make a day trip north from Launceston. Golf enthusiasts won't want to miss the artfully-designed Barnbougle Dunes Golf Links, an hour's drive from Launceston. For something more sedate, head to the wine country of the Tamar Valley, which lies just north of Launceston on a peaceful estuary, and sample wines from some of the valleys over 20 vineyards.
Day 14: Fly to Brisbane
Drop off your rental car and say goodbye to Tasmania today as you fly to Brisbane, the capital of Queensland. After being transferred to your hotel, head out to explore the city at your leisure. On the top of your list should be a walk along the Brisbane River, which winds through the central city, as well as the lovely City Botanic Gardens and a visit (or a swim) at Streets Beach in South Bank.
Brisbane is a charming blend of historic buildings, sleek skyscrapers, and verdant parks. Browse the heritage arcades and 700-plus stores on Queen Street Mall, the city's shopping hub. Just around the corner lies the elegant former Treasury Building and the Brisbane City Hall: join a tour up the City Hall clock tower to get a bird's-eye view of the city.
Day 15: Drive to the Glass House Mountains & the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Pick up your rental car this morning and hit the road again, making your way north to the stunning Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Travel along the highway out of the city, then turn onto Steve Irwin Highway, which will lead you through the Glass House Mountains and quaint villages. These unusually-shaped mountains are a natural playground full of walking tracks and epic lookouts.
The mountains are also full of beautiful waterfalls for you to discover. Head to Gardners Falls in Maleny and Kondalilla Falls in Montville. Both are fringed by rainforest and are home to waterholes, perfect for a refreshing dip. Or, go off the beaten track and find Baxter Falls in Flaxton and Artists Cascades and Booloumba Falls in the Conondale National Park. Then head to the incredible Maleny Botanic Gardens, a privately-owned park sprawled over 4 acres (1.6 ha) with amazing views of the Glass House Mountains, winding paths, lakes, waterfalls, an enormous aviary, and, to top it off, homemade tea and scones.Day 16: Visit the Australia Zoo
Another attraction you shouldn't miss while in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is the Australia Zoo, made famous by the Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin. The 110-acre (45 ha) zoo is an interactive conservation destination where you can get up close to animals, including koalas, wombats, kangaroos, and, of course, crocodiles. Take your time exploring this interesting park and seeing animals you may only have seen in books or on TV before today.
Day 17: Drive to Brisbane, Mount Coot-tha Lookout
Take your time this morning and enjoy a leisurely drive south back to Brisbane. Travel along the Steve Irwin Highway through the Glass House Mountains again until you reach the city. This is your last full day in Australia, so make the most of it: do as the locals do and lace up your sneakers to hit the hiking trail to one of the city's best lookouts atop Mount Coot-tha. It's a relatively easy stroll up the summit track, and you'll be met with sweeping views across Brisbane, the surrounding mountains, and out to Moreton Island.
Day 18: Explore Brisbane's South Bank, Depart Brisbane
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