Australians are blessed with some of the world’s most picturesque landscapes and hidden gems. Whether you’re looking for beaches, forest hikes, desert oases or bustling cities, this country has it all. So if you’re ready to explore Australia’s top twenty one must-see places, let us be your virtual guide as we take you on a journey through the best the beautiful nation has to offer.
Here are the following are the top places to add to your list of must-see destinations in Australia.
The most populous Australian state of New South Wales is home to what is probably the country’s most famous city – Sydney. This New South Wales capital city is home to iconic landmarks like the curvy sails of the Sydney Opera House, the impressive Sydney Harbor Bridge, and a zoo that offers up-close wildlife encounters with not just kangaroos but giraffes, tigers, and koalas.
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1. Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is one of the most iconic buildings in Australia. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Sydney and Australia. The Opera House is located on Sydney Harbour and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
2. Sydney Harbour Bridge
Although much of Sydney’s beauty lies in its modern structures and skylines, the rugged durability of the Toyota Hilux can be perfect in the iconic landmark of Sydney Harbour Bridge. Stretching across the harbor, it offers picturesque snapshots of the city and port below, with its lanes open for visitors to walk, cycle or take a tour.
3. Bondi Beach
Every beach has its character, and Bondi Beach is one of the most lively beaches in Australia. With a vibrant array of restaurants, bars, and cafes that line the beachfront, you can enjoy a day of swimming or surfing before heading out for an evening stroll along the rocky coastline.
4. Manly Beach
Manly Beach is another famous beach in Sydney that is perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing on the sand. The beach is located just north of the city center and can be reached by ferry from Circular Quay.
5. Royal Botanic Gardens
When you need a break from city life’s hustle and bustle, head to the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, located in Sydney’s CBD and overlooking Sydney Harbour, this picturesque park is home to more than 7,500 species of Australian plants and trees.
Approximately 190 kilometres or a three-hour drive from Sydney in the Greater Blue Mountains region, nestled between the Gardens of Stone National Park and Wollemi National Park. Here you will find Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley Resort. Guests can get to the resort via a chauffeur car service, or enjoy an unforgettable aerial journey via helicopter over Sydney and the Greater Blue Mountains.
Once here, explore Wolgan Valley’s 2,800 hectares of natural terrain by 4WD or take to the valleys on horseback. Or embark on your own, once-in-a-lifetime authentic adventures by going on a ‘walkabout’ in one of Australia’s untouched stretches of natural, protected bushland.
Most beautiful places to visit in Victoria, Australia
Melbourne is the capital of Victoria and the home of Melbourne Cricket Ground, the largest stadium in Australia and the entire southern hemisphere. This city is a foodie mecca with many vegan cafes, music venues, and street art filled alleys.
Yarra Valley is the number one wine-growing region in Australia and a must-visit for wine connoisseurs.
Prime road trip territory, The Great Ocean Road is a 243-kilometer-long highway between Torquay in the East and Allansford in the West of Victoria is another one of the amazing places to see in Australia.
People come on this road trip in Australia to see 12 apostles, the main attraction on the Great Ocean Road! Although their name suggests only twelve stacks, there are in fact thirty different limestone stacks stretched along the coast. However, the only visible ones from the viewing areas are the eight apostles left.
6. Melbourne Zoo
The animals in the Melbourne Zoo are a sight to behold. This award-winning zoo is home to more than a hundred species of animals in replicas of their natural habitats, giving visitors an incredible wildlife experience.
7. Federation Square
If you’re in Melbourne, be sure to check out Federation Square. This public square is a modern architectural landmark and home to cultural events and festivals throughout the year. By day, the square is an excellent spot for lunch; at night, it’s perfect for an evening stroll.
8. Shrine of Remembrance
The Shrine of Remembrance is a war memorial located in Kings Domain on St Kilda Road. The shrine commemorates the soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. It now serves as a memorial for all Australians who have served in conflicts overseas.
9. Queen Victoria Market
When you’re in Melbourne, don’t miss the chance to visit Queen Victoria Market. This historic market is one of the largest open-air markets in the world. It offers a variety of fresh produce, souvenirs, and local products.
10. Flinders Street Station
The station is located in the central business district and features several shops and restaurants. It is also home to one of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks, the clocks on the main entrance, which read “City Watch”.
Beautiful Places to visit in Queensland, Australia
The coastal capital of Brisbane is famous for its beach and party scene and the city of Gold Coast is the sixth-largest city in Australia. But nowhere in Queensland is as well-known as the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s most extensive reef system which stretches for most of the Queensland coastline.
The Whitsunday islands are a popular tourist destination for travelers visiting Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef. Located 900 kilometers or 560 miles north of Brisbane, it consists of 74 continental islands of various sizes. The group’s most beautiful island and largest is Whitsunday Island, while the commercial center is Hamilton Island. In our opinion, this is the most beautiful part of Australia!
Heart Reef [Featured Image] is an iconic Whitsunday experience, definitely one to add to your Australia bucket list. It is best viewed from the air by helicopter, seaplane, or fixed-wing aircraft with flights. You will find them departing from Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Coast Airport and Hamilton Island.
11. Brisbane Gardens
The Brisbane Gardens are located in the heart of the city and are a beautiful place to relax or take a walk. The gardens are home to thousands of different plant species, as well as a number of sculptures and fountains.
12. Mt. Coot-tha Lookout
Are you looking for a spectacular view of Brisbane? Then head to Mt. Coot-tha Lookout, located in the suburb of Toowong. You can take in breathtaking views of the city and surrounding suburbs.
13. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Like most Australians, you can’t leave Australia without visiting a koala sanctuary. The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the largest in the world. It offers visitors a chance to see these adorable animals up close.
14. Story Bridge
Story Bridge is one of Brisbane’s most iconic landmarks. The bridge spans the Brisbane River and offers stunning views of the city skyline. It is also one of the only places in Brisbane where you can bungee jump!
15. Streets Beach
As its name implies, Streets Beach is an artificial beach located in the heart of Brisbane. This popular spot offers a range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding.
Most beautiful places in Western Australia
The largest state in the country is Western Australia which is home to only around 11% of the country’s total population. The majority of which live in and around its capital of Perth.
16. Rottnest Island
Have you ever dreamed of visiting a remote tropical island or the Greek Isles? Well, you can make that dream come true at Rottnest Island. Located just off the coast of Perth, this car-free island is home to hiking trails, stunning beaches (don’t miss Little Salmon Bay), secluded coves and wildlife like quokkas.
17. Kings Park
Kings Park is one of Perth’s most beautiful parks. This sprawling park features a variety of native flora and some stunning views of the Swan River and the city skyline. It is also home to many attractions, such as botanical gardens, walking trails, and playgrounds for kids.
18. Pemberton
There are few places in Western Australia that remain as lush and green as Pemberton all year round. This area is home to some of the world’s tallest trees and the winding drives through the forest are truly magical. Try some world-class pinot noir, swim in tranquil swimming lakes and explore some beautiful hiking trails.
On the way to Pemberton, stop at Ferguson Valley, which is a two hours drive from Perth, this under-the-radar region flanked by the Wellington National park to the east and Bunbury to the west boasts rolling hills, olive groves, and lovely orchards.
19. Swan Valley
The Swan Valley is a beautiful wine region located just outside of Perth. The valley is home to over a hundred wineries, as well as a number of restaurants and cafes. The Swan Valley is also great for a walk or bike ride, as numerous trails wind through the valley.
20. Cottesloe Beach
When you’re in Perth, don’t miss the chance to check out Cottesloe Beach. This picturesque beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. There are also some cafes and restaurants on the beachfront if you fancy a bite to eat.
21. Pinnacles Desert
The Pinnacles Desert is one of the unique landscapes in Australia. It is located just over two hours’ drive from Perth. The desert features thousands of limestone pillars formed over millions of years and is an amazing place to explore.
Northern Territory
While the Northern Territory is an outback country and pretty remote, it is one of the most beautiful places in Australia where you will find Australia’s quintessential sight: Uluru.
Also known as Ayers Rock, this sandstone monolith is part of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This ‘Red Centre’ region of Australia and the ancient rock is sacred to Aboriginal people and their communities. While not easy to get to, on this desert landscape, you will find dozens of other sandstone domes.
If you take the road less traveled and stay at the safari-style tented pavilions at Longitude 131° set is the raw red desert. The Luxury Lodge promises to offer an essential experience of Australia’s spiritual heartland, which is steeped in rich culture, heritage and history.
The nearest town to Uluru is Alice Springs, still some 450 kilometers away. The capital of the state is Darwin, the most populous city in the northern territory of Australia.
Conclusion
Australia is full of breathtaking places to visit. There’s something for everyone here, from the wilds of the outback to the bustling cities. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a relaxing getaway, these top most beautiful places to visit in Australia will surely provide you with an unforgettable experience. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book that flight and start exploring!
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