Australia

Australia: general info for travelers

Australia is a diverse country and continent located in the southern hemisphere, surrounded by the Indian and Pacific oceans. It is the world's sixth-largest country by total area and has a fascinating landscape featuring deserts, rainforests, beaches, and coral reefs.
Australia is known for its unique wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and wombats. The country's population is around 26 million, and its largest cities are Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Australia enjoys a high standard of living and is a popular destination for tourists, offering a wide range of activities and attractions such as surfing, hiking, exploring the outback, visiting museums and galleries, and experiencing Aboriginal culture.
English is the official language of Australia, and the local currency is the Australian dollar.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Australia, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Australia: places to visit

Sure, here are the main places to visit in Australia along with a brief description for each: 1. Sydney: It's Australia's most iconic city with popular spots like the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
2. Melbourne: This city is known for its cultural diversity, a thriving food scene, and street art laneways. You can also visit the Royal Botanic Gardens and the National Gallery of Victoria.
3. Great Barrier Reef: It is the largest living structure on earth, and it's home to thousands of species of marine life like fish, sharks, whales, and turtles. You can enjoy a plethora of water activities like diving, snorkeling, and boating.
4. Uluru: Also known as Ayers Rock, this is a sacred site for the Aboriginal people, and it's one of Australia's most famous landmarks. It's a large sandstone rock formation that changes colors depending on the time of day.
5. Cairns: A popular destination gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns also boasts incredible tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and beaches. Visitors can take part in fun activities like skydiving, bungee jumping, and hot-air ballooning.
6. Gold Coast: This city offers sun, surf, and fun with plenty of theme parks, museums, and galleries. You can also visit the hinterland area, which is filled with dense forests and beautiful waterfalls.
7. Perth: The capital city of Western Australia, Perth is home to beautiful beaches, wineries, and national parks. Visitors can also go island-hopping on Rottnest Island, where you can meet quokkas, small marsupials unique to the island.
8. Tasmania: An island state of Australia, Tasmania is known for its rugged wilderness, beautiful beaches, and hiking trails. It's also home to the Tasmanian Devil, which is a unique animal found only in Tasmania.
These are some of the main places to visit in Australia, and each city or state offers something unique and interesting to see and do.
There is more to see and do in Australia: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Australia: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Australia, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Australia has opposite seasons to the United States and Europe. Below is a brief description of the weather in the different seasons of Australia: - Summer (December to February): The weather is typically hot and dry in most parts of Australia with temperatures averaging around 86°F (30°C). Coastal regions may experience cooler temperatures as a result of sea breezes. It is a popular time for outdoor activities and beach holidays.
- Autumn (March to May): Temperatures gradually start to cool during Autumn, although it is still warm in most parts. The weather is generally mild, making it a pleasant time to explore Australia's outdoors.
- Winter (June to August): Winter in Australia is mild in most parts of the country. However, some southern states may experience cooler temperatures, and it can be somewhat chilly in the evenings. This is also the best time to ski in the Australian Alps.
- Spring (September to November): Spring weather is generally similar to Autumn, with temperatures slowly warming up. This is an ideal time to explore Australia's wildflowers and national parks.
The best time to visit Australia depends on what you want to experience. For example, if you're interested in outdoor activities and beach holidays, then the summer months (December to February) would be the best time. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and want to explore Australia's wilderness, then Autumn (March to May) or Spring (September to November) would be ideal.

Australia: activities and what to do

There are many activities and sports that you can enjoy on a vacation in Australia. Here are some suggestions: 1. Surfing: Australia is known for its beautiful beaches and is a prime destination for surfers. Some of the most popular surfing spots include Bondi Beach in Sydney, Bells Beach in Victoria, and Surfers Paradise in Gold Coast.
2. Scuba diving and snorkelling: The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most famous natural wonders of the world and offers some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities. You can also go diving around the coast of Western Australia and Ningaloo Reef.
3. Hiking and trekking: Australia has many national parks and hiking trails. Some popular ones include the Blue Mountains, Kakadu National Park, and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
4. Wildlife viewing: Australia is home to some unique wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, Tasmanian devils, and wombats. You can visit wildlife sanctuaries, zoos, and national parks to see these animals up close.
5. Sailing and boating: Australia has miles of beautiful coastline and pristine waterways that are perfect for sailing and boating. You can go on a scenic boat tour or rent a boat or yacht and explore the waters yourself.
6. Wine tasting: Australia is known for its wine regions, such as the Barossa Valley, Hunter Valley, and Margaret River. You can take a wine tour, taste different varieties of wine, and learn about the winemaking process.
These are just a few of the many activities and sports that you can enjoy on a vacation in Australia.

Australia: few words on history and culture

Australia has a rich and complex history and culture. Indigenous Australians have lived on the continent for tens of thousands of years and have a unique culture and spiritual connection to the land. European colonization began in 1788, and Australia became a British colony until it gained independence in 1901. Australian culture is a mix of Indigenous, British, and other European influences, as well as more recent multicultural influences from Asian and Middle Eastern immigration. Australian art, music, and literature are diverse and reflect this multiculturalism. Sport is also an important part of Australian culture, with cricket, rugby, and Australian rules football being particularly popular.
Overall, Australia is a fascinating destination with a diverse and unique history and culture.

Australia: how to move around on holiday

The most common means of transport to reach Australia would be by air. Major cities in Australia like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide are well-connected with direct flights from many important cities around the world.
Once you are in Australia, you can travel within the country using various modes of transport like domestic flights, trains, buses, and cars. Some popular ways to explore Australia include renting a car or camper van and driving along the scenic coastal routes, taking a train journey on the famous Ghan or Indian Pacific train line, or taking guided tours or day-trips organized by local travel agencies. To hire a car to visit Australia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Australia: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Australia with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the typical foods found in Australia along with a description: 1. Vegemite: It's a dark brown paste made from vegetable and yeast extract, which is spread on toast or bread. It has a distinct savory or salty flavor, and is considered an Australian staple.
2. Meat pies: A pastry filled with minced meat, gravy, and vegetables. It's often eaten as a snack or a quick meal in Australia.
3. Tim Tams: Chocolate biscuits sandwiched with chocolate cream, and coated with more chocolate. Tim Tams are a popular treat in Australia and often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.
4. Lamingtons: Small square-shaped cakes coated with chocolate and coconut. They are often served at morning or afternoon tea.
5. Kangaroo meat: Kangaroo meat is a lean protein, and has a slightly gamey taste. It's often served in fine-dining restaurants or outdoor barbecues known as "barbies".
6. Barramundi: A freshwater fish that's native to Australia and has a mild, buttery flavor. It's a popular seafood dish in Australia and usually served grilled or fried.
7. Pavlova: A dessert made from a meringue base, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. It's named after Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, and is a popular treat around Christmas and summer BBQs. These are just some of the popular foods you can find in Australia.

Australia: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Australia can be an expensive country for tourists, especially when compared to many other destinations in Southeast Asia or South America. Accommodation, transportation, and food can be relatively pricey, and many of the popular tourist activities, such as visiting the Great Barrier Reef or Uluru, can also come with a high price tag. However, there are ways to reduce costs and make your trip more budget-friendly, such as staying in hostels, using public transportation, and cooking your own meals. It's important to do your research and plan ahead to ensure you stay within your budget while enjoying all that Australia has to offer.

Australia: where to find accodation

There are several options to look for accommodations in Australia. Some popular websites are: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb 3. Expedia 4. Hotels.com 5. Agoda 6. Hostelworld It's a good idea to compare prices and read reviews from other travelers to help you make the best choice. Additionally, you can also consider contacting a travel agency that specializes in Australian travel, as they may have access to exclusive deals and can assist with accommodations and other aspects of your trip.
You can check hotel prices in Australia here:
Booking.com

Australia: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australia received around 9.4 million international visitors during the year ending December 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of tourists may have decreased significantly. As for crowded periods, Australia generally experiences high tourist traffic during peak holiday seasons such as Christmas and New Year, school holiday periods (especially during summer), Easter break, and major events or festivals. Therefore, it is advisable to plan ahead and book accommodation and tours well in advance if you plan to visit during these periods.
Australia is generally considered to be a very safe country for tourists. Crime rates are relatively low, and instances of violence against tourists are rare. However, like any country, there are certain areas that may be more prone to crime than others, and visitors should exercise caution in some areas.
In cities like Sydney and Melbourne, it's generally safe to walk around during the day and at night in the more heavily populated areas, but it's always a good idea to avoid isolated areas and keep an eye on your belongings. The same applies to other cities and tourist areas.
There are also some regions of Australia that are known for their wildlife, such as crocodiles, spiders, and snakes. Visitors should exercise caution when exploring these areas and follow the advice of local park rangers or guides.
Overall, while there are a few areas that visitors may wish to avoid or take extra caution in Australia, it is generally considered a very safe country for tourists.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Australia on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Australia: events for tourists

There are many interesting events for tourists in Australia throughout the year. Here are some popular ones: 1. Sydney New Year's Eve: Celebrate New Year's Eve with the world-famous fireworks show over Sydney Harbour.
2. Australian Open: Held in January, this tennis tournament in Melbourne is one of the largest in the world.
3. Vivid Sydney: A spectacular festival of light, music and ideas held annually in Sydney in May/June.
4. Uluru Camel Cup: A quirky camel race event held in the Australian outback in May.
5. Melbourne Cup: Known as "the race that stops the nation," this horse race is held on the first Tuesday in November in Melbourne.
6. Hobart's Taste Festival: A food and wine event held in Hobart, Tasmania in December/January.
7. Royal Easter Show: A popular agricultural show with various displays, performances and competitions held in Sydney in April.
8. Adelaide Fringe Festival: A vibrant festival of arts and culture held annually in Adelaide in February/March.
9. Byron Bay Bluesfest: A popular music festival held in Byron Bay over the Easter weekend.
These are just a few of the many events that take place in Australia throughout the year.

Australia: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Australia, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here is a two-week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Australia: Day 1-3: Sydney Explore the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Take a ferry ride to Manly Beach or Bondi Beach. Visit the Taronga Zoo and walk around the Circular Quay and the Royal Botanic Garden. Day 4-5: Cairns Take a flight to Cairns and spend the day exploring the tropical city. Visit the Cairns Esplanade, take a dip in the Cairns Lagoon, and enjoy dinner at one of the great restaurants on the Pier.
Day 6-7: Great Barrier Reef Spend two days exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Take a snorkeling or scuba diving tour to explore the amazing corals and marine wildlife of this natural wonder.
Day 8-9: Uluru Fly to Uluru and visit the iconic rock formation in the heart of the Australian Outback. Take a guided tour and watch the spectacular sunset and sunrise.
Day 10-11: Kangaroo Island Fly to Adelaide and then take a ferry to Kangaroo Island. Explore the island's wildlife including kangaroos and koalas, and take a visit to the Remarkable Rocks.
Day 12-14: Melbourne Fly to Melbourne and spend three days experiencing the city's vibrant culture. Visit the iconic Queen Victoria Market, dine in one of the world-class restaurants, and take a day trip to the Great Ocean Road.
This itinerary is just a suggestion, you can modify it according to your interests and time available.

Australia: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Australia described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Adelaide is the capital city of the state of South Australia, located on the southern coast of Australia. It has a population of approximately 1.3 million people, making it the fifth-largest city in A... CONTINUE here for a trip to Adelaide
- Alice Springs is a town located in the Northern Territory of Australia, situated in the heart of the outback. It has a population of around 25,000 people and is regarded as an important hub for touris... CONTINUE here for a trip to Alice Springs
- Barossa Valley is a wine-growing region located in South Australia, about 60 kilometers northeast of Adelaide. The region is known for producing some of the best Shiraz wines in the world, in addition... CONTINUE here for a trip to Barossa Valley
- The Blue Mountains is a mountainous region located in New South Wales, Australia. It is about 50 kilometers (31 miles) west of Sydney and is named after the blue haze that can often be seen abov... CONTINUE here for a trip to Blue Mountains
- Brisbane is the capital city of Queensland, located in the northeastern part of Australia. The city is situated on the banks of the Brisbane River, which flows into Moreton Bay. With a population of o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Brisbane
- Broome is a coastal town in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and unique pearling history. Broome has a warm climate and is a popular ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Broome
- Byron Bay is a popular beachside town located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Australia. It is approximately 772 km north of Sydney and 165 km south of Brisbane. Known for its stunni... CONTINUE here for a trip to Byron Bay
- Cairns is a picturesque city situated in the tropical North Queensland region of Australia. It is known for its stunning coral reefs, breathtaking rainforests, and sunny beaches. Cairns is a popular t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cairns
- Canberra is the capital city of Australia, located in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). It has a population of around 400,000 people and is the seat of the federal government. The city is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Canberra
- Coffs Harbour is a coastal city located on the north coast of New South Wales, Australia. It has a population of approximately 75,000 people and is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning be... CONTINUE here for a trip to Coffs Harbour
- The Daintree Rainforest is a tropical rainforest located in the northeastern coast of Queensland, Australia. It is part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Site and is considered one of th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Daintree Rainforest
- Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory in Australia. It is located in the northernmost part of the country, facing the Timor Sea. With a population of around 146,000 people, Darwin is th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Darwin
- Flinders Ranges is a mountain range in South Australia, located about 400 km north of Adelaide. It is considered one of the most stunning natural landmarks in the country, with its rugged landscapes, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Flinders Ranges
- Fraser Island is a stunningly beautiful island located off the southeastern coast of Australia, roughly 200km north of Brisbane. It is the world's largest sand island, and it's also a UNESCO Wor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Fraser Island
- Freycinet National Park is a national park located on the east coast of Tasmania, Australia. It was founded in 1916 and covers a total area of 169 km². The park features pink granite mountains, seclud... CONTINUE here for a trip to Freycinet National Park
- Gold Coast is a coastal city located in the Australian state of Queensland. It is known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, theme parks, and nightlife. The city offers a variety of outdoor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gold Coast
- The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system and is located off the northeastern coast of Australia. It stretches for over 2,300 kilometers and includes nearly 3,000 individual cora... CONTINUE here for a trip to Great Barrier Reef
- Great Ocean Road is a scenic coastal drive in the south-eastern part of Australia, stretching for 243 km along the southeastern coast of the country. It features stunning views of the Southern Ocean, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Great Ocean Road
- Hobart is the capital of the Australian state of Tasmania, located on the southeast coast of the island. With a population of approximately 240,000 people, it is the second-largest city in Tasmania af... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hobart
- Hunter Valley is a beautiful wine region in New South Wales, Australia. It is located approximately 120 kilometers north of Sydney and is one of the oldest and most renowned wine regions in the countr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hunter Valley
- Jervis Bay is a beautiful coastal village located in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales, Australia. This pristine area is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and stunning na... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jervis Bay
- Kakadu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Northern Territory of Australia. It is the largest national park in Australia, covering an area of over 19,800 square kilometers. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kakadu National Park
- Kangaroo Island is the third-largest island in Australia, located off the coast of South Australia. It's known for its pristine natural environment, diverse wildlife, stunning coastal scenery, and del... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kangaroo Island
- Karijini National Park is located in Western Australia and spans over 600,000 hectares. It is known for its breathtaking gorges, waterfalls, and ancient rock formations that make it one of the most sp... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karijini National Park
- Kata Tjuta, also known as the Olgas, is a rock formation located in the Northern Territory of Australia. It is about 50 kilometers west of Uluru and is considered one of the most important spiritual s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kata Tjuta
- Katherine Gorge is a series of thirteen gorges located in Nitmiluk National Park in the Northern Territory of Australia. The gorges are situated along the Katherine River, which runs through the park,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Katherine Gorge
- Launceston is a city in northern Tasmania, Australia, located at the junction of the North Esk and South Esk Rivers where they become the Tamar River. It is the second largest city in Tasmania and has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Launceston
- Litchfield National Park is a protected area located in the Northern Territory of Australia, about 100 kilometers southwest of Darwin. It covers an area of 1,500 square kilometers and it is known for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Litchfield National Park
- Sure, here are some general information about Lord Howe Island:... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lord Howe Island
- Margaret River is a region located in the southwestern coast of Western Australia, about three hours' drive from Perth. It is known for its stunning scenic beauty, pristine coastline, wineries, and go... CONTINUE here for a trip to Margaret River
- Margaret River Region is a picturesque wine-growing region located in the southwest of Western Australia, about 280 kilometers from Perth. Known for its stunning beaches, world-class wineries, rugged ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Margaret River Region
- Melbourne is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city located in the state of Victoria, in the southeastern part of Australia. It is the second-largest city in Australia and is known for its beautiful parks, g... CONTINUE here for a trip to Melbourne
- Mornington Peninsula is a peninsula located in South-East Australia, near the city of Melbourne. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beaches, wineries, and hot springs. The region cover... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mornington Peninsula
- Ningaloo Coast is an area in Western Australia that is known for its stunning coastline, crystal clear waters, and incredible coral reef systems. It is home to the Ningaloo Marine Park, which is one o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ningaloo Coast
- Ningaloo Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the northwest coast of Western Australia. It is the largest fringing coral reef in Australia, spanning over 300 km along the Ningaloo Coast. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ningaloo Reef
- Noosa Heads is a coastal town located on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, national park, and outdoor activities such as surfing and hiking. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Noosa Heads
- Perth is the capital city of the state of Western Australia in Australia, located on the west coast of the country. It is known for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and relaxed lifestyle. Perth h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Perth
- Phillip Island is a small island located in the southeastern coast of Victoria, Australia. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and various outdoor activitie... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phillip Island
- Port Douglas is a town located in the tropical north of Queensland, Australia. With its relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and access to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, it has becom... CONTINUE here for a trip to Port Douglas
- Port Stephens is a picturesque coastal region located in New South Wales, Australia, about a two-hour drive north of Sydney. The area is surrounded by beautiful beaches, stunning natural scenery, and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Port Stephens
- The Red Centre is a region located in the heart of Australia, known for its iconic landscapes such as Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas). It's an arid and mostly flat area, with a desert cl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Red Centre
- The Snowy Mountains are a mountain range located in southeastern Australia, in the states of New South Wales and Victoria. The region is known for its beautiful alpine scenery, wildlife, and outdoor r... CONTINUE here for a trip to Snowy Mountains
- The Sunshine Coast is a region located on the east coast of Australia, in the state of Queensland. It spans over 60km of stunning beaches, hinterland towns, and lush rainforests. The main city i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sunshine Coast
- Sydney is the largest and most populous city in Australia, located on the southeastern coast in the state of New South Wales. It is known for its stunning harbor, impressive and iconic landmarks... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sydney
- Tamborine Mountain is a scenic mountain plateau located in the Gold Coast hinterland of Queensland, Australia. The area is known for its lush rainforests, charming village, and breathtaking views. Tam... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tamborine Mountain
- The Tasman Peninsula is a rugged and scenic area located in southeastern Tasmania, Australia. It is known for its picturesque coastal scenery, fascinating history, and unique wildlife. The peninsula i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tasman Peninsula
- The Ghan is a legendary rail journey that crosses through the heart of Australia, connecting Darwin in the Northern Territory to Adelaide in South Australia. The journey spans 2,979 kilometers and tak... CONTINUE here for a trip to The Ghan
- The Kimberley is a region in the north-western part of Australia, known for its rugged wilderness, scenic landscapes, and unique culture. It covers an area of over 400,000 square kilometers and is spa... CONTINUE here for a trip to The Kimberley
- The Pinnacles is a natural limestone formation located within Nambung National Park, in Western Australia. The Pinnacles comprise thousands of tall, spiky formations jutting out of the desert sand. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to The Pinnacles
- Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation located in the Northern Territory of Australia. It is considered one of Australia's most iconic landmarks and is recognized as a UN... CONTINUE here for a trip to Uluru
- The Whitsunday Islands are a group of 74 islands located off the coast of Queensland, Australia. They are famous for their stunning beauty, including white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and lush ve... CONTINUE here for a trip to Whitsunday Islands
- Yarra Valley is a region located in Victoria, Australia, about 1 hour drive from Melbourne. It is primarily known for its wine production and is recognized as one of the world's leading cool climate w... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yarra Valley


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