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Introducing Australia

When is the best time to visit?
There's no bad time to visit Australia, though there are a few tips to keep in mind. Much of Australia runs hot, especially in the north—places like Uluru, Darwin, and Cairns are best visited in the Southern Hemisphere winter (June, July, August). The opposite applies for southern regions like Tasmania and Victoria, which can get particularly cold in winter—January and February are the most pleasant times to visit.

Interested in the Great Barrier Reef? You'll have warm temps all year, though spring and summer bring stifling temps and lots of warm tropical rain. The famous Gold Coast is the country's Goldilocks region, with lovely weather throughout the year it's known for having beautiful weather most of the year. And given Sydney's southern latitude, glittering beaches are best visited in the warm summer months. Learn more

Where should you go?
Ask an Australian, and they'll tell you that picking a favorite place in their vast homeland feels as impossible as choosing a favorite child. That said, travelers can't go wrong with Uluru (the stunning sandstone monolith in the Northern Territory), Cairns and the renowned Great Barrier Reef, and the famous sights of metropolitan Sydney. Head to the Gold Coast for beach time, Melbourne for culture, Kangaroo Island for wildlife, and Broome to visit the fascinating Horizontal Falls, a series of tidal waterfalls in Talbot Bay considered a natural wonder. 

How many days do I need?
Since reaching this part of the world requires long flights across multiple time zones for most travelers, it's best to make the most of your journey with at least one week in-country. The more time you can give it, the more relaxed and satisfying the trip will be. A great 10-day itinerary might start with three days in Sydney before heading to Uluru, Darwin and Kakadu National Park, and Cairns for a few days each. Learn more

Have two weeks at your disposal? Even better. Consider flying into Melbourne, spending two days on Kangaroo Island, taking the Ghan Train from Adelaide to Alice Springs, and finishing with two nights each in Uluru, Darwin, and Cairns. Learn more about getting around Australia.

If you're combining Australia with another nearby destination like New Zealand or Indonesia, a 5-7 day trip is doable—you'll probably want to stick to exploring one city and taking a couple of day trips from there.

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days · 21 days

Australia Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Explore the Gold Coast's extensive coastline
Map of Gold Coast & Byron Bay - 7 Days
Gold Coast & Byron Bay - 7 Days

Enjoy the sun, surf, and sand on this week-long tour of Australia's famous Gold Coast and Byron Bay. Starting in Coolangatta, you'll head up the Gold Coast to Burleigh Heads, Broadbeach, and Surfers Paradise, where you'll enjoy golden beaches, world-class shopping, and a vibrant entertainment scene. End your stay in Byron Bay, taking in stunning sunsets, visiting organic farms, and meeting with friendly local artisans.

Australia's Twelve Apostles
Map of Melbourne to Great Ocean Road: Self Drive Tour - 5 Days
Melbourne to Great Ocean Road: Self Drive Tour - 5 Days

On this five-day self-drive trip, explore the coastal capital city of Melbourne and then hit the open road. One of Victoria's most scenic drives, Great Ocean Road provides plenty of exciting pit stops—explore the surfing town of Bells Beach, discover the waterfalls of Lorne, zipline through the Otway Ranges, and visit The Twelve Apostles rock formations. On the way back to Melbourne, do some sightseeing in Ballarat, known for its Gold Rush heritage and indigenous art.

Kangaroo crosses a dirt road in Western Australia
Map of The Best of Australia & New Zealand - 22 Days
The Best of Australia & New Zealand - 22 Days

Cover the spectrum of these two dynamic countries with this comprehensive itinerary. Start off in New Zealand, where you'll visit both the North and South islands to explore Maori culture, natural wonders, adventure sports, and more—sip wine on Waiheke island, hike at Aoraki, and cruise through Milford Sound. Then head to Australia, starting with the city sights in Melbourne before you meet the penguins of Phillip Island, stunning scenes of Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef, and urban streets of Sydney.

Coastal Walk in Australia
Map of Ultimate Australia - 16 Days
Ultimate Australia - 16 Days

This well-rounded 16-day tour of Australia's highlights is sure to delight any first time visitor. You'll explore the hidden laneways of artsy Melbourne and the famous landmarks of Sydney, learn about indigenous culture at Uluru in the country's Red Center, and discover tropical Queensland with an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. Along the way, you'll meet kangaroos at Kangaroo Island, search for crocodiles at Kakadu National Park, and have free time to enjoy a few day trips of your choosing.

Port Douglas Beach
Map of Tropical North Queensland: Hamilton Island, Port Douglas, Cairns & More - 7 Days
Tropical North Queensland: Hamilton Island, Port Douglas, Cairns & More - 7 Days

Explore North Tropical Queensland on this seven-day tour. Begin in Hamilton Island and snorkel, sea kayak, play a round of golf, or relax. Then, take a cruise to Whitehaven Beach and learn the area's history. Next, journey to Port Douglas to enjoy a leisure day, a Daintree Rainforest tour, and an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. The trip winds down in Cairns, with plenty of native animal exhibits to visit and a scenic ride up the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

Byron Bay
Map of The Best of Brisbane & the Gold Coast - 6 Days
The Best of Brisbane & the Gold Coast - 6 Days

Experience the best of Australia's less-visited yet beautiful East Coast. This includes highlights of Queensland, like the eclectic metropolis of Brisbane and the endless beaches and shimmering skyscrapers of the Gold Coast. You'll also take day trips to charming Byron Bay, visit a koala sanctuary, and go off-the-beaten path on self-drive road trips to rainforest-covered national parks.

Make the Most of Your Time in Australia

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Get yourself to Kangaroo Island for a unique experience with the 'roos
How Many Days to Spend in Australia

When planning a trip to Australia, 10 days is ideal for visiting four different areas. However, if you're strapped for time, you can explore two regions in five days or up to...

Australia Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Australia Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel
Port Douglas
Peninsula Boutique Hotel
4.9
(11)
· Upscale
Peninsula Boutique Hotel, an adults-only property, offers a boutique-style experience overlooking 4 Mile Beach. Nestled at the quiet end of Macrossan and Esplanade Streets, the hotel allows you to enjoy views of the Coral Sea and is within a 2-minute walk from bars, shops, and restaurants....
Hamilton Island
Reef View Hotel
5.0
(6)
· Luxury
Hamilton Island Reef View Hotel, known for its breathtaking views of the Whitsunday Islands, offers guests a variety of well-appointed suites with private balconies facing the Coral Sea or tropical gardens. With 363 luxurious rooms and suites, 24-hour reception, and daily housekeeping, the hotel...
Photo courtesy of Laneways Ovolo
Melbourne
Laneways by Ovolo
5.0
(5)
· Upscale
You'll find Laneways by Ovolo close to Melbourne's thriving theater district, avant-garde galleries, and bustling boutiques—allowing for an easy immersion into the city's rich art and culture scene. As a guest at Laneways by Ovolo, you'll be just a short walk from The Princess Theatre, Parliament...

Best Experiences in Australia

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Cairns
Daintree Rainforest Full Day Adventure by 4WD
4.7
(10)
11.5 hours
·
Small group
Join a full-day excursion from Cairns to explore the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation with an expert local guide. Begin with a scenic drive along the Captain Cook Highway, followed by a Daintree River cruise to spot crocodiles and other wildlife. Enjoy guided walks through the...
Diving
Palm Cove
Catamaran Excursion to the Great Barrier Reef
4.8
(8)
1 day
·
Group tour
Discover the Great Barrier Reef with this full-day cruise on a high-speed catamaran, where you'll learn about the world's largest coral reef from onboard experts and get to experience it for yourself with snorkeling and scuba diving. The journey begins in Cairns, where you'll meet the expert crew...
Quicksilver Cruises
Port Douglas
Catamaran Cruise + Water Activities in the Outer Great Barrier Reef
4.8
(4)
1 day
·
Group tour
Experience the rich underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef on this full-day guided catamaran cruise to the Agincourt Reef. The catamaran will depart from Port Douglas to take you to this fantastic ecosystem, which you can view from the vessel's underwater observatory. Throughout the day, you...

Our Latest Australia Content

The Sydney Marathon ends in front of the iconic Opera House
Map of Race Abroad in Australia: Run the 2026 Sydney Marathon - 10 Days
Race Abroad in Australia: Run the 2026 Sydney Marathon - 10 Days

The 2026 Sydney Marathon is just one of many adventures on this active, 10-day Australian vacation. Start with a scenic climb up the Sydney Harbour Bridge, then set your own pace during the marathon to cross the finish line in front of the iconic Opera House. Reward yourself afterward with a day of wildlife encounters and wine tasting before flying north—where you'll snorkel the Great Barrier Reef and learn the secrets of the UNESCO-listed Daintree Rainforest from its Indigenous custodians.

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
Map of 16 Days in Australia - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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.

Australia Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 14 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
14 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 7 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 10 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Australia
Travel specialist Liz Neal
active 1 hour ago

Liz Neal

I have been involved in the travel industry since my first job out of college, working for hotels, airlines and travel companies which allow me to know the industry from all sides. I approach my...

read more...
Travel specialist Vicky Steinhardt
active 32 mins ago

Vicky Steinhardt

Hey there! I'm Vicky, and travel is my passion. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have dedicated my entire career to the travel industry. Melbourne-born, my journey led me to live in the...

read more...
Travel specialist Paula Adams
active 2 hours ago

Paula Adams

I grew up in a very small rural town called, Humpty Doo which is 30 minutes outside of the city of Darwin, in the Northern Territory. I lived the true outback life with wallabies jumping in my...

read more...
Travel specialist Ruth Grau
active 2 hours ago

Ruth Grau

I grew up in small outback towns in South Australia before starting in the travel industry in Adelaide. After working many years in Sales & Marketing with tour companies, wholesalers and airlines,...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Australia

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Vicky was excellent
Australia | Oct 17 - Oct 28, 2025

P
Paul S.
Portland, OR | Reviewed on Oct 29, 2025
What a great trip. Vicky got it right and gave us just what we were looking for. Read more

What a great trip. Vicky got it right and gave us just what we were looking for.

Hotel Reviews
Regal Port Douglas
Port Douglas

Right out of the 80s. Physical keys to get in the room. Room on the 3rd floor - elevator was out of commission. Air-conditioned room was just big enough for the bed. The other "room" was out the sliding door (which scraped and rumbled when opening or closing) on a covered but open patio. The pool with waterfalls was cool.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Right downtown Port Douglas close to everything
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sudima Auckland City
Auckland
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Vibe Hotel Sydney
Sydney
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Outer Barrier Reef from Reef Marina - Port Douglas
Outer Barrier Reef from Reef Marina - Port Douglas
Port Douglas

Once in a lifetime experience. Education, helicopter ride, snorkeling, submarine - all 10s

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Uluru Sacred Sites, Sunset, BBQ and Star Talk
Uluru Sacred Sites, Sunset, BBQ and Star Talk
Uluru

I would have preferred a bit more information about the physical, the flora and fauna. Too much about the culture and religion.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sydney City Small Group Walking Tour (Small Group Tour)
Sydney City Small Group Walking Tour (Small Group Tour)
Sydney

Our personal walk with Dave was fun and informative. Very enjoyable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Vicky Steinhardt
Vicky
Vicky Steinhardt
Local specialist in Noosa, Australia | Replied on Oct 30, 2025

Hi Paul,
Thank you so much for your lovely feedback! I’m delighted to hear you had such a wonderful trip and that Australia and New Zealand delivered exactly what you were hoping for. It was an absolute pleasure helping you plan it
Warm regards,
Vicky

First time trip to Australia—Great experience.
Australia | Oct 17 - Oct 27, 2025

E
Edward B.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Oct 29, 2025
I had a great experience with KimKim and with my specific advisor, Liz. My trip to Australia was my first trip to Australia and I had no prior ‘in country’ experience. With help from Liz I organized a trip that took me through Sydney, to Uluru, and then onto Daintree and the Great Barrier Reef that was spectacular. I was particularly impressed with the way Liz organized local support through an ‘in country’ partner Southern World. There were a couple of small issues that came up during... Read more

I had a great experience with KimKim and with my specific advisor, Liz. My trip to Australia was my first trip to Australia and I had no prior ‘in country’ experience. With help from Liz I organized a trip that took me through Sydney, to Uluru, and then onto Daintree and the Great Barrier Reef that was spectacular. I was particularly impressed with the way Liz organized local support through an ‘in country’ partner Southern World. There were a couple of small issues that came up during the trip (for example, an Uluru tour guide canceled at the last minute) and the Southern World team was easy to reach and incredibly responsive—got a replacement guide organized for me in less than an hour. Liz was also super responsive and helpful throughout the whole process, from early planning to confirmed details through to all the actual travel. I would happily recommend KimKim and Liz to anyone planning a comparable trip.

Hotel Reviews
Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel
Mascot, Sydney, NSW

This hotel is a classic airport hotel, and I judge aiport hotels by a different standard. When I stay at an airport hotel it is usually immediately before or after a flight and I’m looking for convenience and efficiency. The airport Rydges is super convenient to the international terminal and also just 50 meters from the T8 train line that runs every few minutes straight into Sydney. The room was clean and super functional, and an easy (flat, little car traffic) 5 minute walk from the international terminal. I would recommend it to other travelers looking for an airport hotel to facilitate their connections.

Authenticity & Character
It’s an aiport hotel—character is not its selling point
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Peninsula Boutique Hotel
Port Douglas

This hotel exceeded expectations in every respect. The location is spectacular—in a quiet neighborhood directly across the street from the Four Mile Beach, with 5-10 minute walking access to the best restaurants and shops in Port Douglas. The service was excellent, including a very good included breakfast. And the facilities were excellent. The room included a balcony overlooking the beach and in-room facilities (fridge, stove top, microwave, etc.) and as a result was very comfortable to stay in. Indeed, the room itself was a great destination. If I go back to Port Douglas I will stay at the Peninsula.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Desert Gardens Hotel
Yulara
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
PARKROYAL Darling Harbour
Sydney

This is a fine hotel, but in a city that is otherwise quite beautiful (Sydney) this hotel is located on possibly the ugliest quarter acre in town—it is built in between two freeway ramps and the view out the window is 100% freeway. Functionally it was fine—clean rooms, nice breakfast, good service at the front desk. But given what i now know to be the alternatives in Sydney next time I go I would prefer a different hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Afternoon/Evening Private Daintree and Nocturnal Tour
Afternoon/Evening Private Daintree and Nocturnal Tour
Port Douglas

Daintree is amazing, and I had a great experience with my guide who did a great job.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay (from Port Douglas Hotel)
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay (from Port Douglas Hotel)
Port Douglas

A really well done experience from start to finish. A comfortable ship, really well informed and helpful staff, great food, and, of course, amazing snorkeling at the reef.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Uluru & Kata Tjuta Scenic Helicopter Flight from Ayers Rock Resort
Uluru & Kata Tjuta Scenic Helicopter Flight from Ayers Rock Resort
Uluru

If you like helicopter tours this is a good one.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
A Night at Field of Light
A Night at Field of Light
Uluru

This experience was okay, but not great. Food was a bit mediocre and venue was fine, but not really all that different than the hotel.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Private Blue Mountain High Country Eco Tour
Full Day Private Blue Mountain High Country Eco Tour
Sydney

A good tour with an excellent guide.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney

A great tour of an amazing building. After the tour we had dinner in the opera house at Bennelong’s — it was superb.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
not really applicable, whole tour is within the opera house
Morning Panoramic Sydney Sights
Morning Panoramic Sydney Sights
Sydney

A great tour with a super informed and entertaining guide.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Liz Neal

The Perfect Hoilday
Australia | Sep 30 - Oct 6, 2025

Susan
Susan K.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Oct 26, 2025
Vicky orchestrated the perfect Australian Holiday. We only had a week and she managed to get everything booked that we requested. She provided a very detailed intinerary, and everything went very smoothly. And when we had a question when waiting for a tour bus she quickly responded and confirmed we were in the right spot. Vicky, went the extra mile for us as we had to postpone our original booking because of health issues. It was a blessing to have someone who was so caring and... Read more

Vicky orchestrated the perfect Australian Holiday. We only had a week and she managed to get everything booked that we requested. She provided a very detailed intinerary, and everything went very smoothly. And when we had a question when waiting for a tour bus she quickly responded and confirmed we were in the right spot. Vicky, went the extra mile for us as we had to postpone our original booking because of health issues. It was a blessing to have someone who was so caring and knowledgeable.
We landed in Sydney early in the morning and hit the ground excited to explore on our own before our scheduled afternoon tour. Because of the information and suggestions Vicky made we covered a lot of territory.
We would recommend the Panorama Sydney sights half day tour by AEA. Our driver Paul, did an execellent job giving us an overview of the cities history and significant sites.
The Blue MountainWildlife Full Day Sights and Hiking tour by AEA was outstanding. Nigel our guide was informative and kept us moving so we didn’t miss out on anything. The hike was the highlight, a bit strenuous but so worth it.
Uluru Sacred Sites, Sunset, BBQ and Star Talk did not disappoint. So beautiful! Ayers Rock -Sunrise field of light was impressive. Both tours were by AAT Kings. Would have loved another day in Uluru but did not have the time. Would recommend staying 2 days.
Cairns was a delight. Enjoyed the free time exploring the city. The highlight of the whole trip was snorkeling on the barrier reef. We did the Sunlover reef Cruise and booked a private snorkeling tour. Highly recommend! We were able to see so much more and knew what we were seeing.
The Classic Kuranda with Tropic wings was great too. Doing the scenic train ride first and the Gondola on the return was perfect. The Gondola ride was breath taking. Got to hold a kangaroo. That was special!!!
Vicky planned a trip for us that we will always remember! I recommend using KimKim tours!

Hotel Reviews
Vibe Hotel Sydney
Sydney
Authenticity & Character
Location
Easy access to tram and within walking distance to most harbor.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Emu Walk Apartments
Yulara
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pacific Hotel Cairns
Cairns

Comfortable. Centrally located downtown. Easy walking distance to everything.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Panoramic Sydney Sights - Half Day Tour
Panoramic Sydney Sights - Half Day Tour
Sydney
Local specialist: Vicky Steinhardt
Vicky
Vicky Steinhardt
Local specialist in Noosa, Australia | Replied on Oct 26, 2025
Hi Susan and Doyle,
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! I’m absolutely delighted to hear how much you enjoyed your Australian adventure — it sounds like you made the most of every moment!
It was truly a pleasure helping you put this trip together, especially after the initial postponement. I’m so glad everything went smoothly and that you felt supported along the way.
Your detailed highlights put such a big smile on my face — from the breathtaking hikes in the Blue Mountains to... Read more

Hi Susan and Doyle,
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! I’m absolutely delighted to hear how much you enjoyed your Australian adventure — it sounds like you made the most of every moment!
It was truly a pleasure helping you put this trip together, especially after the initial postponement. I’m so glad everything went smoothly and that you felt supported along the way.

Your detailed highlights put such a big smile on my face — from the breathtaking hikes in the Blue Mountains to the magic of Uluru and snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef. I couldn’t agree more — two nights in Uluru is perfect when time allows.

Thank you again for your kind words and for recommending KimKim.

Wishing you many more travel adventures ahead.
Warm regards,
Vicky

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.