11 of the best places to visit in Australia

Choosing the best places to visit in Australia is no easy assignment. After all, this is a land packed with spectacular places that could make the potential shortlist, from culturally diverse cities with rich Aboriginal history dating back tens of thousands of years to the colorful wonderland that is the Great Barrier Reef and the raw outback landscapes in between.

Unless you’ve got months – or even years – to spare, the country’s immense scale and the sheer diversity of experiences on offer means it’s impossible to do it all in one trip. Start planning now with this roundup of the best places to visit in Australia – essentially a list of reasons why you should keep coming back for more.

1. The Red Centre, Northern Territory

Best for an iconic outback experience

Nothing will take your breath away like a trip to the red heart of Australia in the Northern Territory. Here, you can watch the sunset over Uluru – arguably the world’s most famous monolith, and a spiritually significant site to the Anangu people – or be inspired by the sheer size of the 36 red domes at nearby Kata Tjuta, within the same national park. The desert’s natural beauty is only further enhanced by immersive art installations, like the Wintjiri Wiru experience at Uluru (which tells part of an Anangu sacred story using more than 1100 drones), Bruce Munro’s Field of Light and the Light-Towers at Kings Canyon.

While there are plenty of adventure activities, like scenic flights and camel riding, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the world’s oldest continuously living culture. Walking tours and art lessons led by First Nations guides can be found near Uluru and Watarrka National Park.

Planning tip: Accommodation in the Red Centre, including campsites, is limited during the peak visitor season of June to September. Book well in advance for tours and to secure accommodation.

2. Northern Rivers region, New South Wales

Best for exploring back roads

Bohemian Byron Bay – which has become a favorite destination for celebrities and backpackers alike – is probably the best-known destination in northern New South Wales. But it’s just a small part of the Northern Rivers region. Head inland towards the hinterlands, and you’ll find quaint villages and laid-back towns equally worth exploring. You can swim in Killen Falls, wander through the charming community of Newrybar, or sample the goods at the surrounding macadamia plantations and from farmgate stalls.

One experience not to miss is the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. The 24km (15 miles) abandoned railway corridor connects the region’s historic villages and is best explored by bike.

Planning tip: Visit Mullumbimby Farmers Market on a Friday morning. Held at the showgrounds, you’ll be supporting micro-farmers and rubbing shoulders with locals.

3. Sydney, New South Wales

Best city for outdoor activities

Sydney is rightfully considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities, where the natural splendor of cityside beaches collides with incredible urban architecture, including the Opera House. It owes much of its good looks to its massive natural harbor, which is surrounded by a blend of skyscrapers, national parks and multimillion dollar homes.

During the summer, you can cool off at one of the eastern beaches (such as perennial favorite, Bondi) or in one of the harbor’s 20 sheltered swimming spots. Try Marrinawi Cove, a terraced sandstone swimming spot. Since opening in 2023 at Barangaroo, it’s been widely embraced by nearby office workers on their lunch breaks.

Don’t miss seeing the harbor lit up for Vivid Festival in the winter. The foreshore is transformed into a canvas for light installations and projections. The cooler daytime temperatures also make this the perfect time of year to take on the Sydney Loop walk, which covers 26km (16 miles) of Harbour foreshore.

Planning tip: Don’t miss a journey to Manly from Circular Quay on the ferry. It's an incredibly budget-friendly way to explore the Harbour, taking in Parliament House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.

4. K'gari, Queensland

Best place for off-grid adventuring

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With a return to its traditional name in 2023, K’gari – the world’s largest sand island – has seen a surge of visitors keen to connect with Indigenous Butchulla culture. Formerly known as Fraser Island, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is rich in history, but it’s also one of Australia’s best 4WD adventures.

Abounding in natural attractions, this is where you can swim in the crystal clear waters of Boorangoora/Lake McKenzie, spot dingos playing on the beach, or relax in a natural ocean spa at the Champagne Pools. Visitors can camp, stay in one of the island’s resorts, or even walk nearly the full length of the island on the 90km (56 miles) K’gari Great Walk. Whatever option you choose, you’ll soon understand why “K’gari” translates to “paradise.”

Planning tip: Always carry a list of tide times, as access to some of K’gari’s most popular spots is tide-dependent. The sand on the island is deep and soft, so if you’re not familiar with driving a 4WD, it may be best to book a tour with a local operator.

5. Melbourne

Best Australian city for nightlife

Melbourne is a 24-hour city, and come nightfall, the party gets started. Hit the laneway bars for drinks and bites, and don’t miss the chance to catch a live show. Meanwhile, over in Collingwood, the Tote is so beloved that locals crowdfunded to keep it open.

Melbourne is also famous for its comedy clubs. Check out Spleen Bar or Basement Comedy Club, or time your visit to coincide with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, held every autumn (March to April).

When the gigs are done, settle in for a drink at one of the city's signature late-night bars like Nick & Nora's and Cherry Bar, or if you’re feeling hungry, fill up at Stalactites.

Planning tip: Melbourne has a specific set of Night Network trains, trams and buses, which operate on Friday and Saturday nights to make sure you can get from bar to bar safely and back home again with ease.

6. Margaret River, Western Australia

Best place for wineries and adventure

Australia is spoiled when it comes to wine regions, from New South Wales to South Australia. What sets Western Australia’s Margaret River apart is that incredible natural attractions complement its food and wine offerings. Located just south of Perth, this corner of Australia is considered one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. It has a high concentration of endemic species, including numbats (a marsupial with behavior similar to a meerkat), Western ringtail possums and around 8000 species of vascular plants, 80% of which are found nowhere else on earth.

The wine is just as notable, with roughly 95 wineries producing award-winning sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, Semillon and chardonnay. And when you need to work off all the food and drink, you can paddle out in the legendary southwesterly swell at some of the state’s best surf beaches, go deep underground on a tour of the region’s limestone cave systems, or walk a portion of the 123km (76 miles) Cape to Cape track along the coast.

Planning tip: Learn more about the traditional owners of the land, the Wadandi (Saltwater) people at Koomal Dreaming, which offers guided walks and food experiences.

7. Kangaroo Island

Best place for an Australian wildlife safari

Just across the water from Adelaide is Kangaroo Island (KI), a haven for wildlife, including its namesake kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, echidnas and the unique platypus. You can watch the island’s little penguins waddle to their dens at Penneshaw and see (and smell) the world’s third-largest sea lion colony lounge amongst the limestone cliffs at Seal Bay Conservation Area. If you’re lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of the endangered glossy black cockatoo with their red tails or the exceptionally shy Kangaroo Island dunnart, a type of tiny marsupial endemic to the island.

KI isn’t just a refuge for wild things, though. It’s also home to countless local producers, including distilleries, wineries and beekeepers, the latter producing honey made from the only purebred Ligurian bee colony left in the world. 

Planning tip: Many of Kangaroo Island’s native species, including kangaroos, are more active at night. As such, it’s advisable to avoid driving at this time.

8. Tasmania

Best place for igniting all the senses

Home to a thriving festival scene, a world-class art gallery and an unbridled wilderness adored by nature lovers, Tasmania is one of Australia’s most diverse destinations, capable of stimulating all your senses.

Here, you can taste whisky at Lark Distillery, Australia’s first carbon-neutral distillery on Hobart’s waterfront, eat freshly shucked oysters on Bruny Island, or dine at restaurants like Stillwater in Launceston, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy (one of only roughly 50 cities in the world to earn this accolade).

You can see weird and wonderful art at the controversial Mona (Museum of Old and New Art). You can hear international music at the popular Dark Mofo and Mona Foma winter and summer festivals. You can feel the ground beneath your feet as you explore one of the state’s hiking trails. And you can smell the fresh sea air while on a boat tour around some of the world’s highest sea cliffs.

Planning tip: Renting a car can be tricky during Tasmania’s busy summer season, so it pays to book ahead. Likewise, if you plan to take the car ferry from the mainland, the route often sells out. Bookings may be made up to 11 months in advance.

9. The Great Barrier Reef

Best place for underwater exploration

The Great Barrier Reef is renowned as one of the earth's most incredible natural wonders, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations. Dive into clear waters to swim alongside colorful fish, majestic manta rays, and even sea turtles. For those who prefer to stay dry, glass-bottom boat tours provide a breathtaking view of the underwater paradise.

Snorkeling and diving aren't the only attractions here; you can also embark on a scenic flight over the reef for a bird’s-eye view of this expansive ecosystem. For an immersive experience, stay on one of the islands like Hamilton or Lizard and live out your paradise getaway dreams.

Planning tip: The Great Barrier Reef is vast, so choosing the right location for your visit is key. Cairns, Port Douglas, and the Whitsundays are popular starting points for exploring the reef, with various tours and accommodations available. The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is between May and October – the water is still warm, and there’s a lot of reef visibility.

10. Rottnest Island

Best place for a unique wildlife experience

Rottnest Island, just off the coast of Perth, is a slice of paradise known for its pristine beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The island is car-free, so the best way to explore is by bike, winding your way through sandy paths to discover secluded coves. Do some wildlife spotting as you explore and keep an eye for the island’s most famous residents – the cute and friendly quokkas.

When it comes to relaxing on the sand, you'll be spoiled for choice, with 63 stunning beaches and 20 bays to choose from. You can snorkel in the turquoise waters, paddleboard, or simply stretch out and watch the world go by. 

Planning tip: Accommodation on the island is limited, so many visitors choose to come on a day trip from Perth. Rottnest Island is a popular day-trip destination, especially during summer, so booking ferry tickets and bike rentals in advance is wise.

11. Newcastle

Best place for Aussie surf culture

Newcastle is a vibrant coastal city with a perfect blend of urban sophistication and beachside relaxation. Located just two hours north of Sydney, it is known for its surf culture, trendy cafes and burgeoning arts scene. Start your day with a coffee in the city’s hip East End before heading to Nobbys Beach for a surf or a stroll along the Bathers Way, a scenic coastal walk with stunning ocean views.

For a dose of culture, catch a live show at the historic Civic Theatre. Foodies will enjoy the city’s diverse dining scene, especially the newly established Queens Wharf, with everything from fresh seafood to innovative cuisine to the quintessential Australian pub experience.