Why I love Australia

“I've been living in this great southern land for 30-something years, and there are still places I haven't explored. Australia is just so damn big. Even if we spent the next 30-something years on an endless round-Australia road trip, there'd still be surprises out there. And that, for a restless road-addict, is a very comforting...” Read More

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Charles Rawlings
Lonely Planet Writer

Top experiences in Australia

Recent articles

Bite into the Bellarine

Known for its family-friendly beaches, surf spots and stunning coastal scenery, Victoria's Bellarine Peninsula has long been a popular holiday destination. But in recent years, the spotlight has shifted from its natural beauty to its innovative restaurants and wineries, which are now an attraction in their own right. Head along for a taste of what's on offer – it's a trip worth savouring.

Tourism on the Bellarine kicked off in the 1870s, when people travelled from Melbourne to Queenscliff by paddlesteamer. These days, Queenscliff is known for its historic streetscapes and heritage-listed buildings, the paddlesteamers have long gone and the Bellarine is best explored by car. It's about a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, so it's an easy day trip, but its relaxed pace is better enjoyed on a weekend-long stay. It's also an easy add-on to a trip along the Great Ocean Road, which starts (or finishes, depending on which direction you're coming from) in Torquay.
Luna Soo
Lonely Planet Writer

How South Australia delivers the best ‘Australia’ experience

Long rebuffed in favour of its scene-stealing east coast cousins New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria, South Australia is finally being recognised as the small state with big appeal. From the bush to the beach with the Barossa chucked in for good measure, this underrated destination neatly wraps all the quintessential Aussie experiences you could dream up into one.

Big skies and outback reds are a highlight of the Flinders Ranges © Totajla / Getty
Chloe Cann
Lonely Planet Writer

The Great Barrier Reef and beyond: a beginner’s guide to Queensland’s coast

From Coolangatta in the south to far-flung Cape York in the north, Queensland is huge – twice as big as Texas and full of hearty and adventurous personalities to match. Queensland’s main attraction, though, is the incomparable Great Barrier Reef, which stretches for 2300km of unbelievable undersea ecology. It’s a beacon for adventurers from all over the world and anchors any trip to Queensland, whether you’re a seasoned scuba diver, first-time surfer, resort lover or rainforest wildlife enthusiast.

The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland. Photo by Rodger Bryant Photography / Getty.
Lonely Planet
Lonely Planet Writer
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Travel guides

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Australia adventures

$34.54 Sightseeing tours

Sydney and Bondi Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Explore Sydney and Bondi Beach on this hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour, which takes you by double-decker bus to 34 stops around the city including Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, Bondi Beach and more. Enjoy unobstructed views and recorded commentary on board. Simply hop off to walk around and sightsee in depth. Your ticket is valid for 24 or 48 hours, so you can experience Sydney and Bondi's most noteworthy attractions, sights, and shopping and dining areas at your own pace.
$674.72 Small group tours

3-Day Tour from Uluru (Ayers Rock) to Alice Springs via Kings Canyon

Discover Uluru, Kings Canyon and Alice Springs on this 3-day tour starting at Ayers Rock and ending in Alice Springs. Explore Australia's great Central Desert - watch the sunrise over Uluru (Ayers Rock), visit the magnificent Olga Gorge and Kings Canyon, with their beautiful waterholes and dazzling views. Stop off at a huge cattle station and the remote, early telegraph town of Alice Springs.
$786.79 Small group tours

3-Day Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) via Kings Canyon Tour

Immerse yourself in the ancient landscapes of Uluru and Kata Tjuta on a three-day tour from Alice Springs. You'll see the highlights of Uluru (Ayers Rock), including the unforgettable sights of an Uluru sunset and sunrise, and have the opportunity to walk the rim of the magnificent Kings Canyon.
$380.73 Water sports

2-Day Best of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Spend two days exploring the very best of Cairns. Enjoy a full day in tropical Kuranda and on your second day discover why the Great Barrier Reef is one of the world's a natural wonders. Including a reef cruise and a scenic helicopter flight, this two day package is the ultimate reef and rainforest experience, leaving you with plenty of time to fully appreciate Australia's tropical north.
$277.87 Water sports

2-Day Reef and Rainforest Package Combo: Green Island Cruise and Kuranda Day Trip

Your 2-Day Reef and Rainforest Package Combo will take you to the two extremes of Tropical North Queensland during your stay in Cairns. Spend a day discovering the Great Barrier Reef on a cruise to Green Island. Your second day sees you exploring the rainforest with a trip on the Kuranda Scenic Rail and the Skyrail.
$568.02 Small group tours

2-Day Uluru (Ayers Rock), Camel Farm and Kata Tjuta Trip from Alice Springs

Experience the wonder and mystery of Uluru and Kata Tjuta on a two-day tour from Alice Springs. You'll see all the highlights of Uluru (Ayers Rock), including the unforgettable sights of an Uluru sunset and sunrise. You'll also travel by luxury coach and stay at your choice of budget, standard or superior accommodation.
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