The ultimate adventure in Australia: top destinations to explore

Looking for a beach getaway? Or perhaps you aim to experience the country’s most famous landmarks? With Dinogo’s guide to Australia’s best destinations, you’ll surely find the perfect fit for your vacation.

Must-visit destinations in Australia: Victoria

From vibrant cities to quaint bush towns and stunning coastlines, Victoria offers a little something for every traveler. Venture further into the countryside to discover lush forests and mountain ranges ideal for those seeking adventure.

Melbourne

Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is a cultural hotspot bursting with art, music, and a myriad of activities. Must-see attractions include the Melbourne Museum, Scienceworks, and the National Gallery of Victoria, each offering a mix of permanent and temporary exhibitions. Don’t miss The Eureka Skydeck for stunning city views and the Royal Botanic Gardens, a lush oasis in the urban landscape.

One of Melbourne’s beloved highlights, cherished by both locals and visitors, is its array of laneway cafes and bars. Nestled within the CBD, popular spots include Beneath Driver Lane, a unique bar set in an old bank vault, and Hardware Societe, famous for its Instagram-worthy brunch dishes.

As a top destination for sports enthusiasts, Melbourne offers thrilling experiences. Catch an AFL game featuring one of the city’s teams or enjoy a cricket match at the legendary Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The Great Ocean Road

Spanning 150 miles along the coast, the Great Ocean Road connects the beach towns of Torquay and Allansford. To fully enjoy the round trip from Melbourne, plan for at least three days, with overnight stops recommended in Apollo Bay and Port Fairy.

In addition to stunning coastal vistas, this scenic route leads you through the vibrant Otway National Park, where you can explore the Otway Fly Tree Top Walk. Be sure to stop by Port Campbell to witness the iconic 12 Apostles rock formations.

The best places to explore in Australia: New South Wales

As the oldest state in Australia, New South Wales showcases a remarkable range of ecological diversity. From inland bushland to tropical rainforests and the arid outback, this state offers a little bit of everything.

Winter visitors can venture to the Snowy Mountains for thrilling winter sports and to ascend Mount Kosciuszko, the highest peak in Australia. For wildlife enthusiasts, Port Macquarie is a must-visit to see the largest wild population of koalas, a beloved symbol of the Australian wilderness.

Sydney

As one of Australia's top tourist hotspots, Sydney offers a delightful mix of urban attractions and serene beaches. First-time visitors should definitely check out iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. After soaking in the sights, indulge in the city's remarkable dining scene, featuring innovative seafood at Saint Peter and traditional Korean dishes at Sang by Mabasa.

Beyond the bustling city center, Sydney boasts stunning beaches along its coastline. Manly Beach is a favorite for those looking to unwind, while the world-renowned Bondi Beach attracts surfers from all over.

Canberra and the ACT

Australia's smallest territory, the Australian Capital Territory, is located within New South Wales and primarily comprises the nation's capital, Canberra. Here, visitors can explore both the current Parliament House and the historic Old Parliament House, now a museum dedicated to Australian politics and democracy.

In addition, you can visit the Australian War Memorial, the interactive science museum Questacon, and the National Gallery of Australia, which features a vast permanent collection along with frequently changing exhibitions. For nature enthusiasts, a trip outside Canberra to the territory's National Parks, such as Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, offers a fantastic opportunity to observe native Australian wildlife up close.

The top destinations to explore in Australia: Northern Territory

Australia's Northern Territory features vast expanses of red desert outback. At the southern tip lies the outback town of Alice Springs, while the northern capital is Darwin. The region is dotted with National Parks and is an excellent choice for a road trip, offering breathtaking views around every corner.

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located about a two-hour drive from Darwin. It's advisable to have a car to navigate the park at your leisure. Don't miss the spectacular Jim Jim Falls and the inviting rock pool at Gunlom, perfect for a refreshing swim. With over 30 walking trails, hikers will find plenty of opportunities to explore the diverse native flora and fauna.

Uluru and the Red Centre

The Red Centre represents the essence of Australia’s desert, featuring expansive plains, stunning geological formations, and significant sites like Kata Tjuta and Uluru, alongside the town of Alice Springs. You can explore the base of Uluru on your own or join a guided tour led by a Traditional Owner from the local Anangu people, where you can discover the cultural importance of Uluru and listen to ancient Dreamtime stories.

Kick off your journey at the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, which offers insights into available activities and an introduction to Anangu culture. If you choose to visit, be sure to catch Uluru at sunrise or sunset, when it dazzles in vibrant hues of orange and red.

The top destinations in Australia: South Australia

South Australia is renowned as a key player in the country’s winemaking scene, with numerous vineyards and cellars that often welcome visitors for tours and tastings. The state boasts beautiful hikes and walking trails, such as the Arkaba Walk—a four-day trek celebrated as one of Australia's finest. Adelaide, the capital, is filled with trendy restaurants and abundant green spaces both in the city and nearby.

Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island, Australia’s third largest island, is renowned for its stunning wildlife, rugged landscapes, and pristine beaches. A quick 30-minute flight from Adelaide will take you there, where you can spot koalas, kangaroos, and seals. The island is also famous for its local delicacies, including pure Ligurian bee honey and fresh oysters. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a food lover, Kangaroo Island promises an unforgettable experience.

Barossa Valley

Located about 50 minutes by car from Adelaide, Barossa Valley is a wine lover's paradise. With approximately 150 wineries, you’ll find countless opportunities to explore new varieties and learn about the art of winemaking.

Here, you can visit both well-known brands and charming boutique wineries, ensuring a rich tasting experience. Even if you choose not to tour any wineries, the picturesque drive through rolling green hills and scenic plains is a delight in itself.

Top destinations in Australia: Western Australia

Western Australia is the largest state in Australia, stretching across the entire western coastline and encompassing nearly a third of the nation. With its vibrant cities, breathtaking natural wonders, and chances to encounter native wildlife, Western Australia offers an abundance of experiences for every type of traveler.

Perth

The capital of Western Australia, Perth, perfectly combines stunning beaches and parks with a bustling urban atmosphere. The city boasts a vibrant arts culture, featuring incredible street art at every turn and exhibitions at the Art Gallery of Western Australia and the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art. Additionally, you'll find a range of beautiful beaches and seaside bars for sunbathing and relaxation.

Rottnest Island

For those eager to snap the perfect selfie in Australia, a trip to Rottnest Island is essential. Here, you can meet a colony of friendly quokkas, charming little marsupials that love to pose for the camera.

A day trip to Rottnest Island from Perth is easily manageable, and there’s a lot to explore after you’ve met the island's adorable residents. The island features stunning beaches, and if you visit between September and November, you might even catch a glimpse of humpback whales as they migrate along the coast.

The best places to visit in Australia: Tasmania

Tasmania is a unique island situated just below Victoria, renowned for its outstanding food and drink scene. Here, you can savor wine, cheese, cider, and seafood, all freshly prepared with local ingredients. You can easily fly into Tasmania from most eastern states, or take a ferry on the Spirit of Tasmania, which runs daily between Melbourne and Devonport.

Hobart

As the capital of Tasmania, Hobart is celebrated for its stunning landscapes and fresh, high-quality produce. Visit the Salamanca Markets, held every Saturday from 08:30, where you can find local produce, artisan goods, and enjoy live music performances. Another must-visit is MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, which showcases some of the most unique and eclectic exhibitions in the world.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Located within the Tasmanian Wilderness Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. Here, you can explore fantastic walking trails and potentially encounter one of Australia's most elusive creatures: the Tasmanian Devil.

Among the most favored trails is the Overland Track, a multi-day hike that leads you from Cradle Mountain to the shores of Lake St Clair. As Australia’s deepest freshwater lake, Lake St Clair boasts an almost mystical ambiance, with its light-hued waters framed by dense forests and towering mountains. Visitors may also spot native wildlife like wallabies and wombats along the way.

The best places to visit in Australia: Queensland

Queensland features vast tropical regions, characterized by lush, humid rainforests and stunning beaches. The renowned Gold Coast stretches along the eastern coastline of the state, famous for its golden sands and warm, crystal-clear waters.

Brisbane

As the capital of Queensland, Brisbane enjoys a warm climate throughout the year, accompanied by abundant sunshine that nurtures its lush parks and gardens. Among these is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, a tranquil retreat housed within a massive domed greenhouse. The city also boasts fantastic farmers' markets, including the Jan Powers Farmers Markets, held every weekend at various locations across Brisbane.

Animal enthusiasts will love a trip to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, which is accessible by a scenic boat ride along the Brisbane River. Here, you can discover all about koalas and the sanctuary's conservation initiatives.

Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns is a picturesque city in far-north Queensland, offering numerous beach resorts for a sun-soaked, leisurely getaway. It’s also conveniently situated next to one of Australia’s most famous natural wonders: the Great Barrier Reef.

You can join tours that offer snorkeling or scuba diving adventures in the reef. If you'd rather keep your feet dry, there are glass-bottomed boat tours that provide stunning views of the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. Additionally, Cairns is in close proximity to the Daintree Rainforest, a sprawling haven of tropical trees, diverse vegetation, and abundant wildlife.