Australia Travel Insights

See the smiling quokka, the "world's happiest animal," on Rottnest Island

Australia FAQ

Australia is a bucket-list destination for many; it's far and it's massive, offering remarkable cultural and geographical diversity, from spectacular beaches, wet rainforests, and iconic landmarks to unique wildlife, world-class cities, and remote desert hamlets. Naturally, travelers have questions—"Is it safe?" "What's the food like?" or "How long should I spend?" This guide answers these and more of the most frequently asked questions, helping you to plan for a memorable Australian adventure.

Kangaroos are a common sight on a 16-day tour through Australia

16 Days in Australia - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Sixteen days in Australia is an excellent amount of time to experience the highlights and lesser-visited sights of two or three distinct regions. A classic tour introduces you to the top sights of Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and their scenic surroundings, while an east coast road trip gives you plenty of opportunities to snorkel, cruise, kayak, and surf. Another superb option, especially for nature-loving travelers, is to split your time between the Great Barrier Reef, the Northern Territory, and the Australian outback.

Pick up your car in Alice Springs and enjoy a free afternoon to explore

Outback Road Trip Adventure: Sydney, Alice Springs & Uluru - 8 Days

Experience the best of Australia's rugged outback and biggest city with this eight-day bucket-list itinerary. The fun starts in cosmopolitan Sydney, where you'll explore iconic sights, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and walk the coastal Bondi to Coogee trail. Then, it's time to fly to the heart of Australia, landing in Alice Springs. You'll take a road trip across the outback, driving the rustic Mereenie Loop, hiking Kings Canyon, seeing Kata Tjuta, and marveling at the magnificent Uluru monolith.

Board the Indian Pacific Railway from Sydney to Perth and cross the Nullarbor Plain

Australia's Indian Pacific Rail Journey: Sydney, Adelaide, Nullarbor Plain & Perth - 8 Days

With this eight-day Australia itinerary, you'll cross from east to west aboard the Indian Pacific Railway. Starting in Sydney, explore the city's top sights and climb the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge before boarding the transcontinental train. Your four-day rail trip will reveal the many colors of Australia's landscapes as you cut through the outback. You'll pass the famous Nullarbor Plain and finally arrive in Perth, rounding out the adventure with wine tasting in the Swan Valley and a day trip to Rottnest Island.

Follow the Kings Canyon / Watarrka Rim Walk in the Northern Territory outback

Australia Great Barrier Reef, Top End & Outback Adventure - 16 Days

This adventurous 16-day Australia itinerary favors remote destinations and scenic landscapes over the big cities. Starting in the tropics of Queensland, explore the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest before flying to the Northern Territory's "Top End." Land in the diverse, offbeat city of Darwin, where you'll board a crocodile cruise and venture through Kakadu National Park. Then you're off to the heart of the Red Centre for the rugged outback drive from Alice Springs to Uluru via Kings Canyon.

Take a scenic road trip from Brisbane to Sydney, stopping at surf towns like Byron Bay along the way

Australian East Coast Road Trip: Reefs, Rainforests & Beaches - 16 Days

Australia's east coast awaits on this active 16-day adventure that includes an epic road trip from Brisbane to Sydney along the legendary Pacific Coast drive. The fun begins in the Wet Tropics, where you'll visit two UNESCO-listed sites, the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, and connect with Aboriginal culture. Then fly south to Brisbane to begin your 620-mile (1,000 km) drive south to Sydney via beachfront gems and surf meccas like Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour, and Port Macquarie.

Perth is your base for west coast adventures like a day trip to Rottnest Island

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

Experience the best of three unique Australian cities over 16 incredible days. This far-reaching itinerary starts in Sydney, ticking off iconic sights, meeting native wildlife, and cruising the harbor at sunset. Next, get to know Melbourne, a creative hub famous for its food scene, penguins, and the Great Ocean Road. Finally, jump over to Perth, a laid-back coastal mecca. From here you'll embark on a mini road trip to the Margaret River region's renowned wine country and Indian Ocean beaches.

Cheers to your fabulous honeymoon adventure against the backdrop of Uluru

2 Weeks in Australia - 5 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

Throughout a two-week honeymoon in Australia, you can embark on city tours, outback excursions, and romantic rainforest adventures on a highlights tour. Or, venture between Sydney, Melbourne, Barossa Valley, and Flinders Ranges for a mix of outdoor adventures and winery tours. Newlyweds eager to get behind the wheel can choose between a beachy southeast Australia road trip and a journey across the outback, while those with an affinity for wildlife explore the unspoiled West Coast.

Focus on Australia's east coast to explore laid-back coastal gems like Byron Bay

19 Days in Australia - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 19 days in Australia, you can experience most of the country's highlights by combining city tours of Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide with natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, Kakadu, and Uluru. Or, step off the beaten path to include the wildlife and national parks of Tasmania. Active travelers should chart their own course with an epic coastal road trip from Brisbane to Sydney, or add the outback and the Hunter Valley wine country to the itinerary for a far-reaching self-drive adventure.

Rough it in style at luxury bush camps in the Flinders Ranges (photo courtesy of Arkaba)

Australian City, Wine Country & Outback Honeymoon - 14 Days

Perfect for adventurous couples looking for off-the-beaten-path luxury, this two-week honeymoon combines the best of Australia's two largest cities with wine-country fun and an outback "glamping" experience. Cruise Sydney's harbor at sunset, then explore culture and creatures in Melbourne with a laneway tour and wildlife expedition. Switch to South Australia next, where you'll drive to a Barossa Valley vineyard retreat and on to the Flinders Ranges for the exclusive three-day Arkaba Walk.

Honeymoon for three nights on secluded Lord Howe Island on a luxury escape (photo courtesy of Capella Lodge)

1 Week in Australia - 5 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

During a one-week honeymoon adventure in Australia, you can embrace the unhurried pace of its iconic cities and tropical islands. Sydney and Melbourne are excellent destinations for newlyweds eager to enjoy gourmet meals, guided tours, and scenic day trips. Alternatively, Hamilton Island provides the perfect base to explore the Whitsundays, while Lord Howe Island suits those looking to escape amid unspoiled rainforest and coastlines. Or, jet to Uluru for truly unique outback experiences.

Your great Australian grand tour comes to a close in Sydney, with tours of its city sights and a harbor cruise

Ultimate Australia: City, Reef, Outback & Top End - 19 Days

This 19-day highlights tour squeezes in Australia's buzzing cities, vast Red Centre, colorful Great Barrier Reef, and wild Top End. Start in Melbourne with city life and day trips to the Twelve Apostles and Phillip Island, then fly to Adelaide and explore Kangaroo Island. Skip to the outback to witness the beauty of Uluru at sunrise atop a camel, then spot crocodiles on the rivers of Kakadu. Relax at tropical Palm Cove and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef before finishing in Sydney with a sunset cruise.

Cruise through the Katharine Gorge before finishing the honeymoon in Darwin

Wild Australian Outback Honeymoon: Adelaide to Darwin - 14 Days

Forget honeymoon clichés; this outdoorsy trip for two carves up the lesser-visited center of Australia with a thrilling road trip along the famous Explorers Way. Your engine starts in Adelaide and ends in Darwin, with plenty of adventure and romance along the way. En route, you'll join the mail route in Coober Pedy, gaze at Uluru at sunset, swim beneath waterfalls in Litchfield National Park, cuddle orphaned kangaroos, and come face-to-face with wild crocs on a cruise in the Top End.

Take part in active adventures, such as kayaking in Byron Bay while looking for dolphins

Australia's Active Great Barrier Reef & East Coast Road Trip - 19 Days

This 19-day trip along Australia's gorgeous east coast is perfect for outdoor lovers. Begin in the tropical paradise of Palm Cove, with lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and the Great Barrier Reef as your backdrop. Then, fly to Brisbane, where you'll explore the city before beginning your epic road trip. Make several stops, including three days in Byron Bay, en route to your final destination: Sydney. This active itinerary is packed with kayaking, cycling, hiking, and surfing for an adventure of a lifetime.

Stay overnight near the Twelve Apostles to see the spectacle at sunset and sunrise

Australia's Ultimate Self-Drive Adventure - 19 Days

This 19-day self-drive itinerary bounces between Australia's most famous sights and beautiful landscapes. Kick off with a cruise on the Sydney Harbour, then marvel at the Uluru monolith and hike Kings Canyon in the outback. Return to urban life in Melbourne, then drive the Great Ocean Road and see the Twelve Apostles. Finally, drive along Australia's east coast from Brisbane to Sydney, stopping at the relaxed coastal towns of Byron Bay and Port Macquarie, with wine tasting in the Hunter Valley.

Drive at your own pace through the Australian outback

Australia's Great Barrier Reef, Outback & Top End Road Trip - 15 Days

This 15-day Australia tour and partial road trip combine the best of the tropics with the Top End and the vast plains of the outback. Start with some beach time and snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, then fly to Darwin, where the real adventure begins. Connect with Indigenous culture and crocodiles, then fly to Australia's red center, where the Uluru monolith lies. Experience the best of the desert, from spectacular sunrises to starry desert dinners, before your final night in Sydney.

Stay two nights in Byron Bay for sunrise beach walks, kayaking, and surfing

East Coast Australia Tour & Road Trip: Cairns to Sydney - 15 Days

This East Coast road trip takes you from the tropics to the big city over 15 fantastic days. Start in Queensland, where you'll snorkel the Great Barrier Reef and float through the Daintree Rainforest. Then, fly south to Brisbane to cuddle koalas and collect a rental car for a multi-day road trip, which takes you to Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour, and the Hunter Valley. The fun ends in Sydney where you'll return the keys and zip around the city sights with local guides before waving goodbye.

Spend two nights in Wilsons Promontory, taking scenic walks and hikes

Southeast Australia Active Honeymoon From Sydney to Adelaide - 14 Days

This two-week active honeymoon explores the best of southeast Australia. First, you'll collect a rental car and make memories—just the two of you—as you drive from Sydney to Melbourne. Along the way, pass white sandy beaches, check out relaxed coastal towns, and trek through lush native bushland. In Melbourne, you'll cycle past the top sights and explore the Great Ocean Road. Finally, fly to Adelaide to spend two romantic days driving around the Barossa Valley wine region at your own pace.

Canoe along the Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge in the Northern Territory

Northern Australia Top End Road Trip: Kakadu, Katherine, & Litchfield - 9 Days

This intrepid Australian adventure explores the best of the Northern Territory. Land in Darwin, the tropical capital, where you'll collect keys and begin your Top End road trip. Explore the UNESCO-listed Kakadu National Park, with its wildlife and ancient Aboriginal rock art. Then, cool off with swims in the crystal-clear pools of Katherine Gorge and Litchfield National Park. Over nine epic days, you'll see breathtaking landscapes, connect with Indigenous cultures, and come face-to-face with crocodiles.

Spend two nights at an eco-retreat in the Daintree Rainforest before heading to Melbourne

Luxury Australian Honeymoon: Cities, Outback, Reef & Rainforest - 14 Days

Your romantic and luxurious two-week Australian honeymoon squeezes in the reef, the rainforest, two huge cities, and the sprawling outback. Start in Sydney with a starry-eyed sunset cruise and go wine tasting in the Hunter Valley. Switch gears to the red center and see the magnificent Uluru monolith, then fly to the tropics, where the Great Barrier Reef and ancient Daintree Rainforest await. End the fun in Melbourne with a restaurant tour and hot-air balloon flight over the city.

Spend two days swimming with marine life in the Indian Ocean

Australia Honeymoon Outdoor Adventure: Melbourne, Sydney & the West Coast - 14 Days

This adventurous two-week Australian honeymoon combines the best of Sydney, Melbourne, and the West Coast. Start in the cultural capital, Melbourne, with a cocktail tour and day trips to the Mornington Peninsula and Great Ocean Road. From here, fly west to sunny Perth where you'll road trip south to taste wines in the Margaret River and fly north to Exmouth to swim with humpback whales and whale sharks. Finish your romantic tour in Sydney with a sunset dinner cruise and an overnight zoo encounter.

Escape to one of Australia's most exclusive and secluded honeymoon destinations (photo courtesy of Capella Lodge)

Australian Barefoot Luxury Honeymoon - 7 Days

This romantic seven-day Australian honeymoon combines city life and the remote wilderness of one of Australia's most exclusive islands. Begin your trip with a sunset dinner cruise across Sydney Harbour. Ascend the Sydney Harbour Bridge, explore sunkissed beaches with a local, and taste wines in the Hunter Valley. Then, jet off to the idyllic Lord Howe Island. Here, you'll connect with nature and each other, spending your days hiking, snorkeling, and drinking in the sunset from your luxury lodge.

Stay three nights at a luxury lodge in the rainforest (photo courtesy of Silky Oaks Lodge)

Australian Tropical Romance: Sydney & Queensland - 7 Days

This blissful seven-day Australian honeymoon combines city fun, natural wonders, and adventure. Your romantic trip begins in cosmopolitan Sydney, where you'll cycle past iconic sights and savor a relaxed Aussie lunch cruise on the harbor. Then, jet north to the tropics in Queensland and drive the scenic coastline to Port Douglas, where you'll spend evenings immersed in a luxe Daintree Rainforest lodge. You'll snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, taste native bush foods, and helicopter to a private waterfall.

Experience the Whitsundays' soft white sand in north Queensland

East Coast Australia: Sydney, Melbourne & the Whitsundays - 13 Days

Over almost two weeks, you'll explore the best of Australia's favorite cities and unwind in a tropical island paradise. Starting in Sydney, explore the city's iconic sights on a sunset cruise, then connect with Aboriginal culture on a bush tucker tour of the Royal Botanic Gardens. Fly south to explore Melbourne's incredible food scene and street art, and take day trips along the Great Ocean Road. Finally, skip north to Hamilton Island, your gateway to the stunning Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.

Take a scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands to see Heart Reef, followed by a sunset sail

Romantic Australia Tour of Melbourne & the Great Barrier Reef - 7 Days

Perfect for couples, this weeklong Aussie trip combines city culture with an island paradise. Kick off the trip in Melbourne, where you'll explore the city's charming laneways and Great Ocean Road. Then, feel the enchantment of a hot-air balloon ride over the Yarra Valley before flying north to car-free Hamilton Island. Here, you'll soar above Heart Reef and sip Champagne during a sunset cruise. Finish the adventure by snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef and playing a round of golf on an island setting.

Toast to your future while sampling local wines in Hunter Valley

Australia's Ultimate Honeymoon for Food & Wine Lovers - 7 Days

This indulgent Australian honeymoon is designed for lovers of all things gourmet. Begin your romantic journey in Sydney, where you'll board a luxurious yacht and climb the iconic Harbour Bridge at night. Then, in Melbourne, dive into laneway culture and cafés and sample the progressive restaurant scene. Beyond the cities, taste the vineyard-dotted landscapes of the Hunter Valley, traverse the Mornington and Bellarine peninsulas, and drive along the scenic Great Ocean Road for photo ops.

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge at night for the ultimate romantic thrill

Australia Honeymoon Adventure: Melbourne, Uluru & Sydney - 7 Days

Combine desert landscapes and urban elegance on this romantic Australia itinerary. Start by immersing yourselves in Melbourne's vibrant food scene, then float above the city in a hot-air balloon. Next, head inland to witness the famous Uluru rock transform into a fiery masterpiece during a camel ride. Finish in Sydney, where you'll climb the Harbour Bridge before setting sail as day turns to night. With culture, thrills, and romance, this honeymoon offers the ultimate taste of Australia's magic.

Board The Ghan and travel the outback in style from Adelaide to Alice Springs

Ultimate Outback Experience: Adelaide, the Ghan, Uluru & Alice Springs - 8 Days

This eight-day Australia adventure takes you on a bucket-list train ride through the outback. Travel from Adelaide to Alice Springs aboard The Ghan on a multiday journey through incredible desert landscapes and quiet outback towns. Make your way from South Australia's foodie capital to the mythical monolith of Uluru in style, enjoy a day exploring Melbourne's famous Great Ocean Road, and meet orphaned kangaroos at a sanctuary.

Take a walk along Cairn's esplanade follwing the coast in Tropical North Queensland, Australia

The 17 Best Things to Do in Cairns

Cairns is an inviting city in northern Queensland and is an ideal launchpad for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Adventure seekers will love the abundance of activities on offer, from sailing excursions to snorkeling trips along jungle rivers, while those looking for a laid-back vacation can relax at one of the region's many lavish resorts. Families will also find it a superb spot to stay, with plenty of kid-friendly activities and safe, sandy beaches.

Visit Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and watch the sun set

Australia's Wild Side: Tasmania, the Outback & the Reef - 19 Days

From the beauty of Tasmania's rugged coast to Central Australia's dry red heart and Far North Queensland's tropical coral islands, experience Australia's diverse landscapes on this 19-day adventure. Cruise the Tasman and Coral Seas, float along a Daintree Rainforest river, dine under the stars at Uluru, play tug-of-war with Tasmanian devils, and self-drive the Great Ocean Road. You'll also discover hidden urban gems in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney during guided walking tours.

Taste fresh oysters on the shores of Tasmania's unspoiled coast (photo courtesy of Saffire Lodge)

2 Weeks in Australia - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in Australia is an excellent amount of time to experience the country's pristine landscapes and superb cuisine. First-time visitors eager to hit the highlights will find Sydney, Melbourne, and Uluru ideal bases, while those with a soft spot for farm-to-table restaurants can focus on the Great Ocean Road, Adelaide, and Kangaroo Island. Other luxurious options include time in wild Tasmania, a West Coast adventure featuring Perth and Ningaloo, and a legendary train journey through the outback.

Explore the wilds of Western Australia from a luxury oceanside camp (photo courtesy of Sal Salis)

Luxury Sydney, Kangaroo Island & Australia's Wild West Coast - 14 Days

Explore the awe-inspiring wonders of Sydney, Kangaroo Island, and Western Australia with this epic two-week luxury itinerary. Starting in harborside Sydney, you'll tick off the icons, connect with Aboriginal culture, and cook with a private chef. Then, delve deep into the wilderness with five deluxe nights on Kangaroo Island. Return to city life in Perth with a private coffee tour before your flight to Exmouth, where you'll settle into a luxe beachside camp and swim alongside gentle whale sharks on Ningaloo Reef.

Your luxury retreats include a modern masterpiece in the heart of Freycinet National Park (photo courtesy of Saffire Lodge)

Luxury Sydney, Tasmania & South Australia - 14 Days

Experience laid-back luxury and form deep connections with Australia's people, landscapes, and wildlife with this deluxe two-week trip. Starting in Sydney, tick off the icons and cycle the city before landing in Hobart for a self-drive Tasmanian adventure to historic Port Arthur and the breathtaking Freycinet National Park. After, skip over to Kangaroo Island, where another 5-star nature lodge awaits. Finish in charming Adelaide with walking tours and wine tastings.

Stay three nights at an all-inclusive Australian safari camp in the Northern Territory (photo courtesy of Bamurru Plains)

Off-the-Beaten-Path Australian Luxury: Cities, The Ghan & Kakadu - 14 Days

Adventurous travelers with discerning taste will love this 14-day Australian trip, which offers laid-back luxury and private experiences. The itinerary weaves together the cultural allure of Melbourne, the gastronomic delights of Adelaide, and the iconic landscapes of Sydney. You'll also travel up the continent in style aboard The Ghan, savoring three days of rail travel from Adelaide to Darwin. Then, experience the pristine wilderness of Kakadu National Park with an all-inclusive, luxury bush safari.

After checking off Sydney, Melbourne, and the outback, you'll end on the remote paradise of Lizard Island (photo courtesy of Lizard Island Resort)

Australia Luxury Escape: Sydney, Melbourne, Uluru & Lizard Island - 14 Days

This curated 14-day luxury itinerary blends lavish experiences with Australia's breathtaking landscapes. Start in Sydney with a private sunset dinner cruise, then skip to Melbourne for culture and cuisine. Fly to the Red Centre to marvel at the iconic Uluru, witness unreal sunsets, and dine under desert stars. Finish the adventure at the Great Barrier Reef on the remote and exclusive Lizard Island.

Escape to the "Galápagos of Australia" on Kangaroo Island (photo courtesy of Southern Ocean Lodge)

10 Days in Australia - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Australia, you can experience the country's cities, outback, rainforests, and reefs on a luxury highlights tour or swap in Melbourne for a sampling of the famed Great Ocean Road. Travelers seeking a refined adventure will find Perth, Margaret River, and Exmouth delightful destinations, while those eager for exclusivity spend time on the remote Lord Howe Island. Alternately, narrow your focus to Australia's famed culinary scene while hopping between farms and fine-dining restaurants.

Spend two nights at a resort on Kangaroo Island sampling the sustainable food scene (photo courtesy of Southern Ocean Lodge)

Luxury Nature & Fine Dining Tour of Australia - 14 Days

Savor the very best of Australia's food and wine scene with this 14-day luxury trip that starts in Melbourne at one of the country's top restaurants, and finishes in Sydney with a sunset dinner cruise. In between you'll stay in 5-star luxury hotels, ride in a hot-air balloon, and hop in a rental car to drive along the Great Ocean Road to Brae, the Grampians, and Adelaide. You'll also spend two nights at a resort on Kangaroo Island experiencing the incredible food and fauna, like wallabies, kangaroos, and fur seals.

Plan the perfect trip to the Whitsunday Islands, like snorkeling off of Whitehaven Beach

The 13 Best Things to Do in the Whitsundays

The Whitsunday Islands are an idyllic gateway to the Great Barrier Reef that lie just off Australia's rainforest-covered Queensland coastline. Known for their turquoise waters and tranquil beaches, you'll find an abundance of water-based activities to dive into here. These include snorkeling, diving, swimming, kayaking, and spending a night on a chartered catamaran. Or, stick to land and enjoy hiking, golfing, cycling, and learning about the local wildlife.

Spend two nights on the remote and exclusive Lord Howe Island (photo courtesy of Capella Lodge)

Ultimate Australian Luxury Escape: Melbourne to Lord Howe Island - 10 Days

This fast-paced Australia itinerary squeezes high-class city fun and barefoot luxury into just 10 days. Dine at top restaurants in creative Melbourne and drive the Great Ocean Road, then escape to Kangaroo Island, where peace, wildlife, and natural landscapes await. Taste world-class wines in Adelaide, cruise Sydney Harbour at sunset, helicopter to the Hunter Valley for a luxe winery lunch, and spend your final days disconnected from it all on the remote and lush Lord Howe Island.

Your luxury outback adventure is bookended by stays in Sydney and Melbourne (photo courtesy of Longitude 131˚)

Luxury Australia City & Outback Adventure: Sydney, Uluru & Melbourne - 10 Days

From sparkling city skylines to twinkling outback stars, this 10-day luxury Australia itinerary combines the culture and creativity of Sydney and Melbourne with once-in-a-lifetime outback adventures. Catch an opera at the world-famous Sydney Opera House and explore the city. Then, fly to the Red Centre to experience sunset over Uluru, see the Field of Light, dine under outback stars, and visit a remote arts community by charter flight. Finish in Melbourne with a street art masterclass and hip nightlife tour.

See the ancient Daintree Rainforest from your 5-star eco-retreat (photo courtesy of Silky Oaks Lodge)

Luxury Australia Grand Tour: City, Outback, Rainforest & Reef - 10 Days

This 10-day luxury Australia trip squeezes in urban fun in Sydney, outback adventures at Uluru, and two UNESCO-listed wonders: the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Start in the city with a show at the Opera House and a full-day city tour. Fly to the Red Centre to experience Uluru from a luxury camp and dine under outback stars. Finally, land in tropical North Queensland, where you'll settle into an opulent rainforest eco-retreat and cruise around the Great Barrier Reef by private catamaran.

Spend a week discovering the best of Australia's innovative cuisine and world-class wines

Luxury Nature & Fine Dining Tour of Australia - 10 Days

Taste the best of Australia with this 10-day luxury itinerary. Packed with 5-star stays, fine dining, nature, and gourmet experiences, you'll sip and sample your way through the country, starting in Melbourne. Explore laneways and ride in a hot-air balloon, then rent a car for a gastronomic drive along the Great Ocean Road to Brae, the Grampians, and Adelaide. Hop over to Kangaroo Island for food and fauna, then skip to Sydney for a luxe sunset cruise across the iconic harbor.

End your adventure on the edge of Western Australia's Ningaloo Reef at a luxury beach camp (photo courtesy of Sal Salis)

Luxury on Australia's Wild West Coast: Perth, Margaret River & Exmouth - 10 Days

This 10-day curated itinerary blends comfort, exclusivity, and the awe-inspiring wonders of Western Australia. Your journey begins in the historic heart of Perth, your base for day trips to the mystical Pinnacles and idyllic Rottnest Island. After, sip and savor the Margaret River on a self-drive adventure through the famous wine region. Finally, catch a flight to Exmouth, where barefoot luxury awaits as you spend your days swimming alongside humpback whales and whale sharks on Ningaloo Reef.

Explore the ancient landscapes of Uluru on a one-week luxury tour in Australia (photo courtesy of Longitude 131°)

1 Week in Australia - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With one week to spend savoring Australia's luxuries, it's best to split your time between two standout destinations. First-time travelers seeking a well-rounded trip will find Sydney and Melbourne to be the perfect bases, while those curious about the outback can swap in time at Uluru. If you have your sights set on the Great Barrier Reef, Port Douglas and Hamilton Island are great options, or consider heading to southern Australia for a hidden-gems adventure filled with wildlife encounters.

Embark on a 10-day journey along Australia's east coast, including the beguiling beach town of Byron Bay

Australia's East Coast Highlights: Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Byron Bay & Brisbane - 10 Days

This 10-day journey explores the best of Australia's east coast. Starting in Sydney, you'll pedal across the city, ticking off the sights, then board a sunset harbor cruise. Skip south to Melbourne, where the city's creative laneway culture and bar scene await. Fly to the Gold Coast for endless sunshine, surf, and sand. Get behind the wheel for a mini road trip to Byron Bay, where you'll indulge in the local food scene, then cap off your trip cuddling koalas in Brisbane.

A quick flight from Adelaide takes you to Kangaroo Island, a protected haven for wildlife

Southern Australia Luxury Tour: Melbourne, Adelaide & Kangaroo Island - 7 Days

Experience the best nature, food, and culture with this luxurious weeklong adventure that checks off Australia's southern highlights. Join private foodie tours in Melbourne and Adelaide, experience a heartwarming penguin encounter on Phillip Island, cycle through Melbourne's vibrant neighborhoods, and escape to Kangaroo Island's pristine wilderness for an overnight jaunt.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef with a private marine biologist guide

Australia Laid-Back Luxury Tour: Port Douglas & Sydney - 7 Days

Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef and tick off the icons of Sydney with this luxury seven-day Australia trip that squeezes in two bucket list destinations. Picture yourself meeting cuddly koalas, swimming with sea turtles and tropical fish, and floating through an ancient rainforest near Port Douglas. In Sydney, you'll cruise across the harbor at sunset, go behind the scenes at the Opera House, cycle across the city, and join a private chef at home.

Fly to the remote Red Center for a luxury desert experience overlooking Uluru (photo courtesy of Longitude 131˚)

Luxury Australian Outback Experience: Sydney & Uluru - 7 Days

From city sights to mega monoliths, this seven-day luxury Australia itinerary ticks off two great Aussie bucket list items with one short trip. Starting in Sydney, you'll enjoy a multicourse lunch while cruising Sydney Harbour, go wine tasting in the verdant Hunter Valley, and meet kangaroos and koalas on a privately guided day trip. Then, fly to the Red Center to experience sunset over Uluru, see the Field of Light, dine under outback stars, and soar above Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in a helicopter.

Kick off your week in the Whitsundays at the opulent qualia Great Barrier Reef (photo courtesy of qualia)

Australia Luxury Reef & City Escape: Hamilton Island & Sydney - 7 Days

Experience the essence of Australian laid-back luxury with this seven-day Hamilton Island and Sydney trip. Start in the Whitsundays at an opulent award-winning resort, where you'll go diving on the Great Barrier Reef, helicopter above Heart Reef, and stand on Whitehaven Beach with a glass of sparkling wine. Switch to Sydney and tick off its icons in style. Cruise across the harbor at sunset, go behind the scenes at the Opera House, eat your way across the city, and climb over the famous bridge.

End your adventure in Melbourne, Australia's "cultural capital"

Australia Luxury City Tour: Sydney & Melbourne - 7 Days

Get a taste of Australia's two greatest cities with a week of urban adventures, private day trips, and stylish 5-star hotels. This perfectly-paced luxury trip starts in Sydney, where you'll tick off iconic landmarks, meet Aussie animals, and connect with Aboriginal culture. Then, switch to Melbourne, the creative capital, where you'll dive into the food scene, leave your mark during a street art masterclass, and meet the penguins at Phillip Island.

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