Coast-to-Coast Australian Cities: Sydney, Melbourne & Perth - 16 Days

Highlights

• Join a special welcome ceremony to connect with Aboriginal culture in Sydney
• Go hiking in the magnificent Blue Mountains region
• Discover Melbourne's hip nightlife scene with a dinner and cocktails tour
• Embark on a dinner cruise on Perth's picturesque Swan River
• Take a relaxed road trip to explore the Margaret River's wineries and beaches

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Sydney, Welcome Ceremony, Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise

Say g'day to stunning Sydney! This Australian city is a bucket-list destination for good reason. With iconic sights, historic neighborhoods, world-class culinary and nightlife scenes, prime waterfront location, and an array of pristine beaches, there's always something to do here. A private driver will transfer you from the airport to your accommodation. Life here revolves around the expansive Sydney Harbour, so soak in the views from your room before venturing out for a special Welcome to Country ceremony.

The Indigenous purification ritual is said to welcome visitors to the land and protect them in their travels. Learn about the origin, purpose, and relevance of the ceremony to the Aboriginal people and connect with Sydney's Dreamtime identity. Then, as evening falls, you'll board a two-hour sunset cruise on the harbor. Watch day turn to night and feast on a delicious three-course meal while listening to live music and taking in the sights. Your captain and host will share the rich history of the city as you pass famous landmarks. After, stop for a nightcap at one of the many bars in Darling Harbour or Barangaroo.

Day 2: Sydney Sights Tour, Harbour Explorer Pass, BridgeClimb at Night

This morning's half-day sightseeing tour ticks off the best of Sydney's iconic landmarks. Start inside the Sydney Opera House, where a guided tour will take you behind the scenes within the famous arts center. Then, see the sprawling landscape of Hyde Park, the twin spires of St Mary's Cathedral, the Georgian facade of Parliament House, and the columns of the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Pass through the neighborhoods of Woolloomooloo, Kings Cross, and Paddington before ending at Bondi Beach. After, you'll return to the city.

This afternoon, you'll have a hop-on hop-off Harbour Explorer pass, which you can use to experience Sydney from the water. Board one of the sightseeing boats and complete the 75-minute cruise, choosing to hop off and visit some of Sydney's top attractions or stay on board. As evening falls, experience Sydney after dark atop the famous coathanger—the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Strap on a harness and let a BridgeClimb leader take you 439 feet (134 m) above sea level. The adrenaline-pumping trip provides 360-degree views of the city!

Day 3: Full-Day Wildlife, Waterfalls & Wine Tour

Say goodbye to the city and hello to quintessential Australian experiences with this full-day tour that takes you south of Sydney. You'll wind through Australia's oldest national park, take in spectacular coastal scenery along the Grand Pacific Drive, and then climb a sandstone escarpment to return via the forests and farmland of the picturesque Southern Highlands.

Along the way, you'll meet koalas and kangaroos with a private experience at Symbio Wildlife Park. Next, traverse the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge and pause for a local lunch (and maybe an ocean swim) at a seaside café. Then, in the afternoon, wander through fragrant eucalyptus forests to view a tumbling waterfall and sample some of the cool climate wines for which the region has developed a reputation. Finally, return to your accommodation in Sydney happy, tired, and ready to call it a day.

Day 4: Day Trip to the Blue Mountains

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Set off on a full-day adventure to the Blue Mountains. Your day begins with a visit to Calmsley Hill, a working farm home to kangaroos, emus, wombats, and koalas, where you can enjoy some morning tea and wander the tranquil surroundings. The journey continues to one of the spectacular Jamison Valley lookouts, where you can take in panoramic vistas. Next, visit the remote Eaglehawk Lookout to experience the Three Sisters rock formation in all its glory. Watch as the sunlight brings out magnificent colors that change throughout the day.

Then, you'll arrive at Evans Lookout, where you'll be given a picnic lunch pack and instructions for the hiking track. Set off exploring valleys and ridges as you hike from Evans Lookout to Govetts Leap, all the while looking out across Australia's Grand Canyon, the Grose Valley. Your hike concludes at one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. On the return to Sydney, pause at the Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens to see the ancient wollemi pine. 

Day 5: Fly to Melbourne, Evening Dinner, Tales & Cocktails Tour

After breakfast, take a private transfer to Sydney Airport for your 90-minute flight to the country's other big city, Melbourne. On arrival in the "cultural capital" of Australia, another driver will transfer you to your accommodation. Drop your bags and set out to get lost in Melbourne's back streets and arcades, where local designers, specialty retailers, quirky cafés, and cool street art define the city's famous "laneways" culture.

Return to your accommodation and refresh ahead of this evening's tour, which takes you into the heart of Melbourne's elegant and lively nightlife. It's a stark contrast with the city's dark past, which was shaped by curious characters on both sides of the law. Begin with a dinner that reflects Melbourne's fantastic culinary scene, and learn about the city's history from a local guide. Next are some of the best spots in town, many of which are deliberately hard to find, and you can enjoy this firsthand insight into all that Melbourne has to offer. 

Day 6: Full-Day Phillip Island Tour & Penguin Parade

Set off on an adventurous day trip to Phillip Island to witness the evening ritual of the "Penguin Parade." Stop first at the Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park, where you can see endangered species, greet adorable kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas, and admire an array of colorful birds and reptiles. After two hours, you'll reach Phillip Island, famous for the cute wild penguins that waddle up the beach every night—but there's much more to explore on the small island.

This afternoon you might visit Woolamai Beach to watch the surfers. From here, head to the western corner of the island to enjoy magnificent views of Bass Strait and the Nobbies, home to Australia's largest colony of fur seals. Before evening falls, you'll stroll along the boardwalk to the Penguin Plus viewing platform at Summerland Beach to witness the phenomena of the Penguin Parade. Watch the adorable little penguins come ashore as they hurry off to find their burrows. After, sit back and nap on the return drive to Melbourne.

Day 7: Day Trip on the Great Ocean Road, Scenic Helicopter Flight

Wake up early and embark on another epic guided day trip—this time, you're traveling along one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world: the Great Ocean Road. This stretch of highway runs 150 miles (240 km) down Victoria's southwest coast, passing national parks, limestone rock formations, seaside bluffs, coastal mountain ranges, and incredible beaches. This is a full-day, 11-hour trip in which you'll have ample time to stop and enjoy the highlights. Keep an eye toward the coast throughout the drive, as you're likely to spot whales and dolphins.

Stop for lunch at Apollo Bay, a tranquil seaside town set among the rolling coastal hills, and stretch your legs on a forest hike through the mountains of the famous Otway Ranges. You'll also visit the romantic cove at Loch Ard Gorge, then cap the adventure at the most incredible natural landmarks on the route: the Twelve Apostles, a group of ancient limestone rock formations rising up out of the sea. Finally, take a sensational 25-minute helicopter flight above the Great Ocean Road's dramatic cliffs, craggy stacks, pristine bays, and crashing waves before returning to Melbourne.

Day 8: Sunrise Balloon Flight, Café Culture Walk & Melbourne Tour

Rise early this morning to spend a peaceful hour drifting gently over Melbourne before the city wakes up. Imagine feeling the warmth of the flames as the balloon rises over the city's legendary landmarks, including the MCG, Port Phillip Bay, and the Eureka Tower. This is the only major city in the world you can float directly above by hot-air balloon! Afterward, enjoy a hot breakfast with sparkling wine at a 5-star hotel.

Then, in the afternoon, explore Melbourne's many neighborhoods, each with its own blend of color and creativity. Your guide will take you from bohemian Fitzroy to seaside St. Kilda and from Little Italy to Little Saigon as you explore the city's quirky lanes, Victorian arcades, and grand boulevards while meeting locals along the way. You'll soon understand how Melbourne's subcultures, art, sports, architecture, food, and music make this Australia's coolest city.

Day 9: Fly to Perth, Swan River Dinner Cruise

Today you'll trade the east coast for the west. A driver will take you to the airport to catch a four-hour flight to Perth, Australia's sunniest state capital. Upon arrival, collect a rental car and make your way to your hotel. As Australia's largest state, Western Australia is famous for long days of sunshine and diverse landscapes and climates. Perth is a laid-back place that effortlessly blends urban cool with raw natural beauty. Drop your bags, then venture out to the famous Kings Park and Botanic Garden, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, for panoramic city views.

Later, wander down to the port, where you'll embark on a dinner cruise on Perth's picturesque Swan River. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a hot buffet dinner as you take in views of the city skyline from the water. Over 2.5 hours, you'll watch day turn to night while enjoying complimentary drinks and an unlimited feast that includes fresh seafood and gourmet desserts. There'll be a live DJ and entertainment on board, so kick up your heels and celebrate your first day in Perth.

Day 10: Full-Day Rottnest Island Tour

Begin your day with a ferry ride to Rottnest Island, a tranquil paradise located 11 miles (18 km) off the coast of Perth. With its 63 beautiful beaches and 20 picturesque bays, this car-free island offers the perfect escape. Upon arrival, you'll board a 1.5-hour bus tour around the island. This experience will give you insights into Rottnest's cultural and historical heritage, unspoiled nature, and diverse wildlife as you visit some of the island's most spectacular locations, including the Wadjemup Lighthouse and the rugged West End.

Step off the bus at West End to stroll along the boardwalk to a stunning lookout. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and the adorable quokkas, the island's beloved native marsupials that have gained fame on Instagram. Back near the ferry, spend the rest of the day enjoying a relaxed coastal lunch and by the gorgeous beaches. Choose to follow the snorkel trail at Parker Point or explore various shipwreck sites for an underwater adventure. Just don't miss your return ferry back to the mainland!

Day 11: Drive to Margaret River, Twilight Didgeridoo Cave Tour

The Margaret River is one of Western Australia's most famous wine regions, with almost 100 cellar doors to explore. After breakfast, begin your three-hour journey south. Soon, you'll reach the rolling vines of the Margaret River, an area known for its chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. Tomorrow morning you'll visit standout wineries, but if you arrive early enough, you could sneak in a tasting this afternoon or go to the amazing Rustico Restaurant, which offers a six-course degustation with views for lunch.

Later this evening, join a heart-opening 90-minute Aboriginal culture tour. Starting with a short guided bush walk, you'll identify traditional medicine plants before venturing into Ngilgi Cave to hear your guide relate the Dreaming legends and give a mesmerizing didgeridoo performance.

Day 12: Explore the Margaret River Wine Region, Voyager Estate Lunch

Margaret River is famous for its world-class wines (particularly chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon), and today, you can explore a handful of local wineries with a self-guided tour—just be sure to designate a driver before the fun begins! Can't-miss highlights of the region include the cellar door lounge at Vasse Felix, the tall trees at Leeuwin Estate, and the barrel room at Brown Hill Estate.

Afterward, pull up a chair for a seven-course discovery lunch at Voyager Estate, one of Australia's most ambitious and innovative producers of chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. Go beyond the cellar door with this immersive exploration of craft and terroir. The gastronomic adventure begins with a guided vineyard walk, where you'll learn about organic farming and the estate. Then, taste wine straight from the barrel and learn more about winemaking philosophy. Finally, sit down to a signature seven-course wine-paired lunch that celebrates local produce.

Day 13: Visit Margaret River Beaches, Drive to Perth

Only in the Margaret River region can you find people whose passion for surfing matches their passion for wine. Here, you're just a short drive from more than 40 incredible surf breaks. Today you could visit Surfers Point, where the world's professional surfers come for giant swell, or try White Elephant Café, which sits above a cove protecting Gnarabup Beach. Grab a coffee and jump in for a swim, rent a standup paddleboard, or enjoy the scenery along the coastal walking trail.

After a relaxed morning in Margaret River, make the return three-hour journey up the coast to Perth. Pause at the seaside town of Busselton to stretch your legs, where you'll find the 150-year-old Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Walk the 1.1-mile (1.7 km) stretch or take the miniature train to the end. Step into the Underwater Observatory, a circular room studded with windows 26 feet (8 m) beneath the ocean's surface. They reveal up to 300 species of colorful coral, fish, and other marine life fed by an unusually warm current.

Day 14: Coffee Culture & Art Tour, City Arcades & Laneways Walking Tour

Kickstart your day with a caffeine-fueled adventure. This lively two-hour tour blends Perth's coffee culture with art and history. Wander down Wolf Lane to see the best street art and murals, then explore the city's art, sculpture, and architecture. Your guide will share quirky tales from Perth's past as you pass landmarks like Cathedral Square, the old General Post Office, the Land Titles Office, and the Treasury Buildings. Uncover hidden gems in Hibernian Place, Stirling Gardens, and Government House, and traverse the old theater district, home to His Majesty's Theatre and the Cultural Centre.

Downtown Perth is home to cool laneways and historic arcades, so this afternoon you'll join a 2.5-hour private walking tour. Discover pedestrian-friendly malls, ornate arcades, trendy laneways, back streets, and dirty alleys with an entertaining guide as they share the answers to pressing questions, such as why Perth is called Perth. End with a drink at a hip local bar, then enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. You could make a reservation at the renowned rooftop restaurant Wildflower, whose menu focuses on the six Indigenous seasons.

Day 15: Free Day in Perth

Today is yours to explore as you like. After a few big day trips, you might just wish to spend the day relaxing at picturesque Cottesloe Beach, but if you feel like getting out of the city, venture south to Fremantle—Perth's hip, historic cousin. This port area close to the city is filled with heritage buildings, cafés, street art, and amazing stories.

Join a local guide for a two-hour walking tour that uncovers tales of convicts and culture with a coffee in hand. Hear stories about prisoner escapes, convict antics, and the expulsion of Indigenous peoples to Rottnest Island. Find out why almost 10,000 men were transported from Great Britain and Ireland and how they built their own prisons and helped shape the future of Western Australia.

Day 16: Depart Perth

It's your final morning in Perth. Do as the locals do and go for breakfast or brunch at a trendy café before driving to the airport in time to drop your car and catch for your flight home or to an onward destination. Safe travels!

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