A land that’s known for its natural wonders, top-notch beaches, sandy deserts, and dangerous wildlife that Aussies casually stroll past without fear. Australia’s a wild one and we love it. Here are some of the best things to do in Australia.
When I visited Australia a few years back, Kangaroos and beaches were the first things that came to my mind. Little did I know, that’s just a small part of it. There’s so much more to the Land Down Under! Its rich culture, magnificent nature, ocean pools, and sandy white beaches – some of which are ranked amongst the best in the world. So, if you are looking for some adventurous, sun-kissed fun, or even some exciting wildlife encounters, this guide is for you. So grab your sunblock and read on for the top 10 things to do in Australia!
1. Road Trip To The Great Ocean Road
Hop on for a bold adventurous road trip to the Great Ocean Road! Listed as an Australian National Heritage, this road is located on the foreshore in Apollo Bay, about a 4.5-hour drive from the City of Melbourne. Great news, it’s open all year round for tourists! There, you’ll be greeted with spectacular panoramic scenic views, empty sandy beaches, and seaside cliffs that go along the Southern Ocean. Possessing a rich history of fossils and limestones, one of the iconic beauties you should witness include The Twelve Apostles which are magnificent rock formations along the limestone coast.
Pro-Tip: Make a pit stop at Teddy’s Lookout along the craggy cliffs to admire the soaring pillars that tower above the ocean.
Admission: We recommend the Day Tour as it provides transport ($120 to $150 per pax)
How to Get There: Hire a car or take a day tour bus that will take care of all your transport needs
Find out more about the Great Ocean Road – one of the Top 10 things to do in Australia
2. Experience Thrilling Rides At Luna Park
If you are an amusement park geek, then you’re in for a ride! Luna Park is one of Sydney’s most iconic amusement parks. It gives off old-school carnival vibes with its various rides, attractions, and best of all, carnival games! Relive your childhood memories of winning carnival prizes and adorable stuffed animals. Or, if you’re a thrill-seeker, try the Sledgehammer or the Hair Raiser which drops at a whopping 50 meters high above sea level. We dare you!
Pro Tip: One cool thing about Luna Park is its free entrance. But, if you wish to go on any rides, it’ll be good to purchase a Day Pass ticket.
Admission: Single rides range from $5 onwards while the Day pass cost $34 and above.
Address: 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point NSW 2061 Australia
How to Get Here: You can take the NSW Bus or Train from the main City Centre which costs about $2 to $4 and takes around four to 10 minutes.
Note: There are two Luna Parks in Australia, Sydney, and Melbourne
Find out more about Luna Park – one of the Top 10 things to do in Australia
3. Feast On Fresh Seafood At Sydney Fish Market
Image credits: Australian Water Association
If you’re looking to dig into some fresh, top-quality seafood, head to Sydney Fish Market! The second world’s largest seafood market aside from Japan’s, you’ll find this market boasts a wide variety of seafood from Salmon to Abalones, and even fresh oysters. Don’t miss out on a chance to try Australia’s well-loved, classic fish and chips!
Admission: Free. Opens daily, 7 AM to 4 PM.
Address: Corner Pyrmont Bridge Rd &, Bank St, Pyrmont NSW 2009, Australia
How To Get There: Take the NSW Bus or Tram from the central city, which costs between $3 to $5 and takes about 12 minutes.
Find out more about Sydney Fish Market – one of the Top 10 things to do in Australia
4. Explore The Outbacks In The Blue Mountains (Three Sisters)
Craving for some outdoorsy adventures and gorgeous panoramic views? Explore the outdoors in the Blue Mountains and marvel at its impressive rock formations while traversing the epic wilderness. This spot is best known for its most famous rock formations, the Three Sisters at Echo Point Lookout. If you enjoy hiking then this is the perfect place to do it while you reward your tiresome journey with great views of the blue skies, lush forest, and all-consuming nature. Discover the quaint and charming mountain towns at Katoomba where you’ll find yourself basking in the beautiful street art and striking up conversations with friendly locals.
Admission: Day passes are available from $40 and above
Address: Mountainous region 50KM Northwest of Sydney
How To Get There: There are trains from Sydney Central Station that depart every hour, making your journey two hours long to arrive at Katoomba. Hop-on busses are also available at Echo Point where you can drop off at different points as you wish. Desire another option? Hire a car or opt for a Day Tour to ease your transport worries!
Find out more about The Blue Mountains – one of the Top 10 things to do in Australia
5. Souvenir Shopping At Paddy’s Market
Image credits: Paddys Trader
If you’re looking for a good ole shopping spree in search of souvenirs and tasty food, head down to Paddy’s Market! Think of it as Bugis Street but bigger! Selling a large variety of inexpensive items, at Paddy’s Market, you’ll find essentials ranging from clothes to fresh produce, and precious trinkets to food.
Admission: Free. Open from Wednesdays to Sundays, 10 AM to 6 PM
Address: 9-13 Hay St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
How To Get There: Located near Chinatown, you can take the bus, train, or tram from Sydney’s CBD. It costs about $3 to $5 and takes approximately 10 minutes. Or, if you’re within the Central/Museum area, it’s about a six to eight minutes walk.
Find out more about Paddy’s Market – one of the Top 10 things to do in Australia
6. Discover Colorful Secret Laneways
Image credits: Visit Victoria
Explore funky street art and hidden bars along the laneways of Melbourne City at Hosier Lane. It’s a one-of-a-kind of experience as you never know what lies around the corner of these secret laneways. You might find a quaint coffee shop for your daily dose of much-needed caffeine, basement boutiques for your shopping needs, or even a cozy fusion restaurant.
Admission: Free
Address: Melbourne CBD, between Flinders Street and Flinders Lane
How to get here: Take a train, bus, or tram from Melbourne CBD. Bus fares typically cost between $3 to $4.60.
Find out more about Colourful Secret Laneways – one of the Top 10 things to do in Australia
7. Snorkel At The Great Barrier Reef
Image credits: Reef House
This is one bucket list adventure that’s on the minds of every ocean lover and snorkeler out there. Stretching down a large portion of Australia’s east coast, Cairns boasts stunning coral formations that are home to various marine species such as turtles and fishes. Listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO since 1981, this is the perfect adventure for you scuba diving enthusiasts!
Admission: There are Day tour packages that range from $100 onwards. Check it out here.
Address: Off the east coast of Queensland, Australia
How to get here: It’s best to get a boat day tour from Cairns if you plan to do various water activities. It will take about 35 minutes to 1.5 hours to reach diving spots.
Find out more about Great Barrier Reef – one of the Top 10 things to do in Australia
8. See Cute Quokkas At Rottnest Island
Image credits: James Vodicka
Heading to Western Australia? Aside from its popular white sandy beaches, you have to catch these friendly cheeky Quokkas on Rottnest Island! Fun fact about Quokkas – these small marsupials are native to Rottnest Island and are often called the “happiest animal on Earth” due to their silly smiles. How cute are they? Quokkas are found all over the island so get your cameras ready! However, do note that you’re not allowed to touch or feed them.
Admission: $20 (Adults) and $7 (Children, 4-12 years) or $49 (Family Group)
Address: Offshore from City of Perth, Western Australia
How To Get There: The only way to Rottnest Island is by a Fast Ferry from Elizabeth Quay in Perth or Fremantle. From there, you can book the Quokka Hopper to explore the island or stroll around.
Find out more about Rottnest island – one of the Top 10 things to do in Australia
9. Get Cultural And Learn About The Aboriginals
Image credits: Go Cultural
Interested in learning the tradition and culture behind the Australian Aboriginals? Visit the land of the ‘Whadjuk’ people in Perth and gain an insightful journey into Perth’s Aboriginal past. Here, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the beautiful Aboriginal culture with hands-on activities such as hunting and partaking in traditional crafts/painting.
Admission: It’s best to book a day tour with a guide that can bring you around unique Aboriginal cultural places
Address: Fraser Ave, Perth WA 6005, Australia
How to get here: Various cultural places includes Kings Park and Elizabeth Quay Walking Tour
Find out more about Australia’s Aboriginal Cultures – one of the Top 10 things to do in Australia
10. Get Sun-Kissed At Bondi Beach & Bondi Icebergs Club
Image credits: Jannah Ismail
Ready to put on your swimwear and soak up some vitamin D? If you’re in Sydney, bring along your picnic mats and head to Bondi Beach! Known for its fantastic beaches and views, it also comes with impressive ocean views and is perfect for a stroll along the sandy coast. Experience a swim in cold Sydney waters by heading to Bondi Icebergs Pool which is home to Australia’s most iconic winter swimming club.
Admission: Bondi Beach – Free. Bondi Iceberg Pool admission prices here
Address: 1 Notts Avenue Bondi Beach NSW 2026
How to get here: From the Sydney CBD, hop on the bus line 333 which costs $2 to $4 and takes about 37 minutes.
Find out more about Bondi Beach – one of the Top 10 things to do in Australia
Spruce Up Your Bucket List With The Top 10 Things To Do In Australia!
Now that you know what the top 10 things to do in Australia are, you’re ready to head Down Under! Whether you’re booking fun-filled activities or going all out on a shopping spree at Paddy’s Market, don’t forget to use our YouTrip card to make full use of our Wholesale Exchange Rates and skip those pesky bank fees.
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Stay safe, and happy travels!
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