Verified Facts
Official NameCommonwealth of Australia
CapitalCanberra
Population27.5 million
Area7,692,024 km² (2969906 sq mi)
LanguagesEnglish
CurrencyAustralian dollar ($)
TimezonesUTC+05:00 to UTC+11:30 (8 zones)
RegionOceania / Australia and New Zealand
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API
When visiting Australia, the best things to do include exploring the country's iconic landmarks, immersing in unique experiences, and discovering its diverse natural beauty, vibrant culture, and hidden gems.
Top Attractions
| Attraction | Location | Type | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney Opera House | Sydney, New South Wales | Performing Arts Center | Iconic architecture and world-class performances |
| Great Barrier Reef | Queensland | Coral Reef System | World's largest coral reef system, snorkeling and diving |
| Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park | Northern Territory | National Park | Sacred Aboriginal site and stunning rock formations |
| Great Ocean Road | Victoria | Scenic Drive | Breathtaking coastline and rock formations |
| Blue Mountains National Park | New South Wales | National Park | Stunning scenery and hiking trails |
| Kangaroo Island | South Australia | Island | Unique wildlife and natural beauty |
| Gold Coast Theme Parks | Queensland | Theme Parks | Thrilling rides and attractions |
| Purnululu National Park | Western Australia | National Park | Unique beehive-shaped sandstone formations |
| Melbourne Cricket Ground | Melbourne, Victoria | Sports Stadium | Historic sports venue and guided tours |
| Cairns Esplanade | Cairns, Queensland | Waterfront | Lively atmosphere and stunning harbor views |
Unique Experiences
- Take a surfing lesson at Bondi Beach in Sydney, one of the world's most iconic surf spots
- Go on a kangaroo safari in the Outback, where you can see these amazing animals in their natural habitat
- Experience the didgeridoo, a traditional Aboriginal wind instrument, at a cultural workshop
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the Whitsunday Islands, offering breathtaking views of the Great Barrier Reef
- Learn about bush tucker, the native Australian ingredients used in traditional Aboriginal cuisine
- Attend a Vivid Sydney festival, a spectacular display of light, music, and ideas
- Go snorkeling or diving with sharks and rays at the Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia
- Take a camel ride along the beach at sunset on Cable Beach in Broome
Outdoor & Nature
- Explore the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest continuously surviving rainforest on earth
- Hike the Larapinta Trail, a 231km trail that takes you through the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges
- Visit Whitehaven Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters
- Go whale watching in Hervey Bay, a popular spot for humpback whale sightings
- Discover the Pinnacles Desert, a unique landscape of limestone pillars in Western Australia
- Take a sunset cruise on Sydney Harbour, offering stunning views of the city skyline
Cultural Experiences
- Visit the National Museum of Australia, which tells the story of Australia's history, culture, and people
- Explore the Art Gallery of New South Wales, which features a diverse collection of Australian, European, and Asian art
- Attend a performance at the Sydney Opera House, one of the world's most famous performing arts centers
- Learn about Aboriginal culture at the Tjapaltjarri Cultural Centre in Alice Springs
- Visit the Melbourne Museum, which showcases the natural history, culture, and society of Victoria
- Take a guided tour of the Parliament of Australia, the country's federal parliament
Hidden Gems
- Visit the Cape Range National Park, a lesser-known park with stunning scenery and wildlife
- Explore the Margaret River region, known for its beautiful beaches, wineries, and gourmet food
- Take a scenic flight over the Kimberley, a remote and rugged region in Western Australia
- Discover the Flinders Ranges, a mountain range in South Australia with stunning scenery and hiking trails
- Visit the Thursday Island, a small island in the Torres Strait with a rich history and culture
Day Trips
- Take a day trip from Sydney to the Blue Mountains, a stunning national park with scenic views and hiking trails (100km, 2 hours)
- Visit the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne, a scenic drive with breathtaking coastline and rock formations (200km, 3 hours)
- Explore the Whitsunday Islands from Airlie Beach, a group of islands with stunning beaches and snorkeling opportunities (30km, 1 hour)
- Take a day trip from Cairns to the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest continuously surviving rainforest on earth (120km, 2.5 hours)
- Visit the Kakadu National Park from Darwin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning natural beauty and wildlife (200km, 3 hours)
Planning Tips
Suggested itineraries: 3-day (highlights of Sydney and Melbourne), 7-day (comprehensive tour of the East Coast), 14-day (deep exploration of the Outback and Western Australia). Key tips for booking and prioritizing: book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season, and prioritize the attractions and experiences that are most important to you. Consider purchasing a MyMulti ticket for public transportation in New South Wales, and a Myki card for public transportation in Victoria.