The islets and corals of the Great Barrier Reef. The opalescent shells of Sydney Opera House. Both instantly recognisable and worth your time, but we think the best trips to Australia lead you beyond, as well as deeper into, these headline sights.
You could spend the night moored off the Great Barrier Reef, drifting to sleep under the stars, before exploring the corals and marine life in a semi-submersible. Just inland, you might walk through a private stretch of Mossman Gorge with your Kuku Yalanji guide, who’ll share Indigenous Dreamtime stories with you. Then, soar above the Outback of the Atherton Tablelands — wetlands, eucalyptus woods, and yawning plains — kangaroo watching from above.
In New South Wales, catch a seaplane to a national park outside Sydney, dining at a remote waterside restaurant before flying back to the city. Or, leave the urban behind for a breakfast of freshly baked scones alongside wild kangaroos, the overture to a day of wildlife-watching and off-roading in the Blue Mountains with your private guide. Further afield, you could spot southern right whales from the beaches of Jervis Bay, or fly to Lord Howe Island and unwind on footprint-free sands.
Whether you’re passionate about getting out on the ocean or into the rainforest, or looking for invigorating culinary adventures or beach escapes, we know where to go and what to do. We’ll help you embrace not just Australia’s icons, but open the door to surprising and beguiling experiences across Queensland and New South Wales.
Our ideas for exploring Australia
We’ve road-tripped and sailed our way around Queensland and New South Wales, and your own journey could take on any number of shapes. Think of these itineraries as merely starting points, as we’ll create your journey around you.
Where to stay in Australia
In Queensland, stay on a working Outback cattle station, or an ecolodge set in its own rainforest nature reserve. Meanwhile, New South Wales offers family-friendly, beach-fringed hideaways and tented safari-style camps. Our hand-picked accommodation offers something out of the ordinary.
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Emporium Hotel South Bank
The Emporium Hotel South Bank is in the heart of Brisbane, with unobstructed views of the city from the rooftop pool. A variety of food and beverage outlets are available within the hotel as well as just a short stroll away.
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Thala Beach Nature Reserve
The Thala Beach Nature Reserve is situated on a secluded headland just under an hour's drive north of Cairns. This property is in an untouched area of the rainforest with your very own cabin among the trees.
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Mt Mulligan Lodge
Set against the majestic backdrop of Ngarrabullgan which juts out against the far north Queensland landscape, Mt Mulligan Lodge offers a haven of laid-back luxury in the rugged Outback, 160 km (100 miles) northwest of Cairns.
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Spicers Sangoma Retreat
Located in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, Spicers Sangoma Retreat in Australia offers a luxurious and eco-friendly experience, exclusively for adults.
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Paperbark Camp
Just two hours south of Sydney, Paperback Camp preserves the essential elements of the bush whilst illustrating that style and sophistication can also be part of the equation.
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Crystalbrook Byron
Set within 45 acres of lush rainforest and only five minutes south of Byron Bay and Tallow Beach the contemporary, modern designed buildings of Crystalbrook Byron blend comfortably into their forest surroundings.
Things to do in Australia
See the Daintree Rainforest through Kuku Yalanji eyes, stargaze from your ‘Reefbed’ in the Whitsundays, look for eagles in the Blue Mountains’ hidden valleys, board a seaplane for a gourmet lunch by the water — and that’s only a sample of how to experience Australia beyond the landmarks.
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Sydney Opera House Backstage Tour
This intimate tour is unique in that you have exclusive access to areas normally reserved for the stars and their crew. You will be taken backstage of one of the busiest performing arts centres in the world as it prepares for the upcoming performances.
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Blue Mountains private tour
Visit an ancient Aboriginal site, admire the views from outstanding lookout points, examine rock formations, and learn about the unusual plants and wildlife that abound the area.
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Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
The Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb has become a legendary activity for any visitor of Sydney. The three and a half hour excursion takes you over the arch to the summit of the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, giving you wonderful 360 degree views of the harbour, including the iconic Sydney Opera House.
More inspiration for your Queensland & New South Wales trip
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A world beyond Sydney: 3 road trips around New South Wales A world beyond Sydney: 3 road trips around New South Wales
A world beyond Sydney: 3 road trips around New South Wales
Discover a world beyond Sydney. Australia specialist Tom talks you through three standout road trips in New South Wales, all showcasing the best of what this diverse state has to offer — from boutique stays and bushwalks to bioluminescence.
Read this guide -
Highlights of Queensland Highlights of Queensland
Highlights of Queensland
From ancient rainforests to the world’s largest coral reef and balmy beaches to peaceful jungle lodges, there’s much to discover in the diverse landscapes of Queensland, Australia. Specialist David shares his highlights of the state and how you can experience them, too.
Read this guide
Australia in pictures