Highlights
- Take a family surf lesson at Bondi Beach
- Experience the thrill of the fair at Luna Park
- Learn the art of dot painting in the outback
- Marvel at the spectacular sunrise over Uluru
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Sydney, Free Day to Explore | Sydney |
| Day 2 | Visit Luna Park, Surf Lesson at Bondi Beach | Sydney |
| Day 3 | Visit Taronga Zoo | Sydney |
| Day 4 | Sydney to Uluru, Family Dot Painting Workshop | Uluru |
| Day 5 | Uluru Sunrise & Guided Walk | Uluru |
| Day 6 | Uluru to Melbourne, Free Day to Explore | Melbourne |
| Day 7 | Depart Melbourne |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Sydney, Free Day to Explore
Welcome to Australia! Upon arrival in Sydney, your driver will be waiting to take you to your city accommodation. The capital of New South Wales, this former penal colony for British convicts is now a perfect destination for families. With its dizzying array of beaches, famous harbor, zoo, and watersports, there are numerous fun-filled activities for all ages—adults included.
After a recharge at your hotel, head out for a bite to eat, where you'll be spoiled for choice with the vast variety of multicultural cuisine. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you choose. Ride the ferry across the harbor to Manly and wave at the Sydney Opera House, stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens, or go swimming in the tranquil waters of Coogee. Explore the cobblestone laneways of The Rocks before trying out the cafés and pubs of upscale Paddington, whose distinctive terrace houses date back to the Victorian era.
Day 2: Visit Luna Park, Surf Lesson at Bondi Beach
Prepare for an action-packed day the kids will love. Just below Sydney's famous Harbour Bridge on the northern shore lies the heritage-listed and world-famous Luna Park. Head to the Coney Island section, where little ones will love the family-friendly attractions, and kids of all ages can enjoy classic slide rides with speed levels set from sedate to hair-raising. Embrace your inner child and disappear into the Mirror Maze or steady yourself for the Wonky Walk or Barrels of Fun.
Make your way to the Big Dipper, where bigger kids and thrill seekers will encounter Australia's tallest and fastest rollercoaster! Or, for an extra hit of adrenaline, experience the g-force of the park's one and only Sledgehammer as Sydney Harbour, sky, and sea all merge into one on this thrill-seeking ride. The whole family will enjoy the park's famous Ferris Wheel as you travel 131 feet (40 m) in the air and marvel at all of Sydney's attractions from east to west.
Next up, it's time to get the whole family surfing like pros! Head to Bondi Beach, where the golden sands and crystal waters continue to capture hearts, big and little, worldwide. Create unforgettable memories under the guidance of your private surf instructor, who will determine your current level, and customize the lesson around the family. Learn the basics from warm-up to paddling, catching waves, and standing—you'll be safely up onto your first wave before you've had time to worry about falling off!
Day 3: Visit Taronga Zoo
It's your final full day in Sydney; after breakfast, it's time to head to the city's famous Taronga Zoo. A quick ferry ride from the harbor, the zoo cares for over 5,000 animals from more than 350 species. During your guided tour, encounter some of the country's most recognizable marsupials alongside African lion cubs, Sumatran tigers, giraffes, gorillas, and Asian elephants. Curious young minds will enjoy learning about these fascinating creatures and how the zoo is working to protect them.
Kids of all ages will love the African Savannah experience. With only a water boundary between you and some of Africa's iconic animals, meet the zoo's resident giraffes, Jimiyu and Zarafa, and adorable new arrivals, Kito and her calf Ebo. Wave at the zebras before heading off to meet Lwazi and Ato, two male lions who have called Taronga home since 2015. Your visit concludes with a ride on the zoo's Sky Safari—Sydney's only cable car experience. Soak up the breathtaking views while the kids try to spot the squirrel monkeys as they explore their home.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Sydney to Uluru, Family Dot Painting Workshop
Today, your driver will transfer you to the airport, where you'll catch a three-hour flight north to Uluru. This special part of Australia's Red Centre desert plains is famous for Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara First Nations tribes—the area's traditional landowners. The whole family will enjoy exploring the many natural springs, waterholes, and rock caves at this remarkable World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, you'll be transported to your hotel. Take some time to relax before this afternoon's family excursion.
After settling in, head to the Ayers Rock Resort, where it's time for the whole family to sit down with a local Anangu artist for a memorable introduction to Uluru First Nations art. Children will be fascinated to learn the basic techniques of dot painting and its place in First Nations story-telling. Hear about the ancient symbols still used today in Anangu art before putting brush to canvas. Create your own dot painting as a keepsake of your memorable time in Uluru. The rest of the day is yours to relax in anticipation of tomorrow's early start.
Day 5: Uluru Sunrise & Guided Walk
Today's excursion begins before first light with a transfer to Talinguru Nyakunytaku, the Uluru sunrise viewing area. Marvel at the majesty of the sun's first rays creeping across the desert plains. As the sunlight slowly plays with the rock formations, watch as the color of Uluru changes to a bright fiery red. Afterward, it's a quick 10-minute drive to the Cultural Centre. Here, kids will be fascinated to learn about Tjukurpa (First Nations law, moral systems, and culture) and the natural and human history of the park through the interactive exhibits and talks.
Next, it's time to head to one of the nearby cafés for a well-deserved brunch before departing for your ranger-guided excursion. Make your way along the base of Uluru, through caves and traditional rock art, as you follow the Mala walk. Learn about the park's geology and cultural heritage during this 1.5-mile (2 km) family-friendly trek. The walk ends at Kantju Gorge, a dramatic near-vertical wall that becomes a raging waterfall when it rains. Older kids will love the challenge of cycling the longer 7-mile (11-km) loop. Head back to your hotel and enjoy some well-deserved free time.
Day 6: Uluru to Melbourne, Free Day to Explore
After your memorable trip to Uluru, it's time to head to the airport and fly 1,180 miles (1,900 km) southeast to Melbourne. Heralded for being one of the most liveable cities on earth, the capital of Victoria is an excellent destination for families. Upon arrival, you'll be transported to your hotel. After settling in, head out and immerse yourselves in the vibrant energy of Australia's cultural capital. Older kids will enjoy strolling the European-style cobbled laneways as you discover the funky street art and bohemian alleyways that make this such a fun city to explore.
The most family-friendly way to experience all Melbourne offers is to hop on the City Circle, a free tram that runs throughout the central districts and the waterfront. Bring a picnic and make your way to the city's green heart at the Royal Botanic Gardens. Amble among 8,000 plant species across the 94 acres (38 ha) of shaded walks and lush greenery. Set your young ones on an adventure exploring wondrous plants and creatures with the garden's seek-and-find nature cards.
For music and art-obsessed teens, a Lanes and Arcades Tour is a great option. Venture through AC/DC Lane, home to the city's infamous rock 'n' roll murals and some of Melbourne's coolest street art. Listen to tales that bring to life the city's history, both gritty and ornate, as you imagine how Melbourne would have looked at the turn of the century. As your day draws to a close, head to one of the many fantastic eateries, and recount your favorite family moments of the trip.
Day 7: Depart Melbourne
It's time to say goodbye as your memorable holiday in Australia concludes today. Your driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!
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