Home to adorable native animals such as the koala, platypus, and kangaroo; natural stunners such as the magnificent Great Barrier Reef and Ayer’s Rock; architectural icon, the Sydney Opera House; AND a diverse arts and culture scene, there’s tons to explore in Australia. Enough to bring you back again and again. Here are some of popular Australian itineraries to help you plan your trip to the Land Down Under. Enjoy the spoils of the city and do some cafe-hopping, before hiking at one of the many national parks a short ride away. Or, just go from beach to beach.
Check out these top routes and more details below the map. Okay, maybe we were a little bit biased and only focused on the west coast where the amazing beaches are. But Australia is a huge place so just this coast gives you plenty to see warm your heart like a shrimp on the barbie. Or maybe just the hot-to-the-touch skin and flaming tan?
When you’re ready to take the leap and get down to booking your own journey, use the buttons to check out the latest flight prices and hotels loved by other travellers. Then book your ideal Australia trip, your way. No fixed routes! Stay as long as you want in each city, fly where you want, choose only hotels in your budget, and stay close to the attractions you’re most interested in. Let’s go, mate!
Grand Tour
Grand Tour – 29 days – Australia Itinerary
For the traveler who is up for all Australia can offer. This route takes you through all of the major spots in the land down under! Comprising of a good mix of urban and nature, this Australia itinerary rewards you with an immersive and eye-opening experience. With so many attractions to discover and so much distance to cover, be prepared to set aside a whole month for this great Australian adventure!
Fly from Singapore (SIN) to Cairns Airport (CNS)
1) Cairns – 3 Days
Depart Singapore and fly straight into Cairns. Start the trip off right and soak in all its dramatic beauty at the Great Barrier Reef. Known as one of the world’s largest natural wonders, it is the only living structure that can be seen from space! There are a couple of ways to marvel at Mother Earth’s beauty – diving, snorkeling, taking a helicopter ride for a bird’s eye view, or cruising in a glass bottom boat. Continue to enjoy the sun and sea the next day.
For the adventurous, try white water rafting, bungee jumping, or skydiving for the ultimate adrenaline rush! A day tour to see the Atherton Tablelands and its waterfalls is also an option that is definitely worth your time. With heaps of waterfalls to admire, each more beautiful than the last, choosing a favourite is impossible.
If you fancy a hike, visit the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest rainforest on the planet estimated to be 180 million years old.
Drive from Cairns to Cassowary Coast
2) Cassowary Coast – 1 Day
Hop back into your car and take an hour’s drive to the south of Cairns down Cassowary Coast. Stop by Mission Beach, a small and sleepy beautiful beachside town made up of 4 villages offering a small range of restaurants, bistros, and bars. Here, spend the afternoon enveloped in nature’s embrace. Visit the Mamu Tropical Skywalk Mamu Rainforest Canopy Walkway and venture into Wooroonooran National Park, a World Heritage rainforest. Paronella Park is also a must visit, created by José Paronella over five hectares beside Mena Creek Falls. His award-winning castle compound stands among a forest of 7,500 tropical plants and trees – a breathtaking sight you have to see for yourself.
Drive from Cassowary Coast to Townsville
Take a ferry to Magnetic Island
3) Townsville and Magnetic Island – 2 Days
Continue your drive south along the coast, and be rewarded with gorgeous sea views. About 3 hours later, you’ll arrive at another sleepy seaside town – Townsville. A military air base in its past life, it was revamped and has since become a popular tourist spot. Explore this island, which is mostly national park and miles of walking trails for hiking enthusiasts. The snorkeling and diving waters here are also perfect for beginners.
The next day, hop on over to the quiet yet charming Magnetic Island, just a 20-minute ferry ride away. The island’s name was given by James Cook when his ship’s compass went haywire while passing through. One of the best ways to take in the island sights and feel the wind in your hair is to rent and get around in a topless car! One of the backpackers’ favourite activities is to visit Bungalow Bay Koala Village for breakfast with Thor the resident koala.
For a more laid-back day, chill out by Horseshoe Bay on the beach and watch the day go by, or browse through the weekend market for souvenirs if your trip coincides. If you still have time, pop by the Museum of Tropical Queensland, where you’ll get to catch a diving simulation to the depths of the Great Barrier Reef!
Take a ferry back to Townsville
Drive to Airlie Beach
4) Whitsundays and Airlie Beach – 3 Days
Accessible by car, coach, train, and flight, 3 hours is all it takes. The Whitsundays Islands is a popular destination for many to stopover and have a relaxing time. Whether you choose to do some watersports or hike in the many national parks, Whitsundays is a stunning location to enjoy nature at its best.
The famous heart reef that is in the Great Barrier Reef of the Whitsundays has the most amazing mixture of different species of corals naturally formed into the shape of the heart. There are also many day trips you can take here. Head out for fishing, crocodile safaris, and sailing through the 74 idyllic islands.
End your last day in Whitsundays by laying out in Airlie Beach Lagoon, located right in the heart of Airlie Beach. With the clear aquamarine waters lapping softly onto the beach, your senses can’t help but relax as you frolic in the calm waters or sunbathe in the secure lagoon, where a shallow children’s pool is located at one end.
Drive from Airlie Beach to Town of 1770
5) Town of 1770 – 1 Day
Sleepy but oozing with charm, the town of 1770, though quite a drive away (8 hours), is the perfect getaway from throngs of tourists. Arriving into the town of 1770 is like going back in time. This area is protected from further development, so what you see is literally what those have seen thousands of years ago, where Captain Cook first set foot and discovered Australia. Take time to enjoy the beach and watch the glorious sunset before you get back on the road.
Drive from Town of 1770 to Fraser Island
6) Fraser Island & Hervey Bay – 3 Days
Continue your journey down the coast of Australia. Facing the Coral Sea, Fraser Island is blessed with all the goodness of Australia – stunning coastlines, interesting wildlife, rugged hinterlands, lush rainforests. This UNESCO World Heritage site and the world’s biggest sand island has Australia’s signature landscape. If you are driving, camp out at the many tourist parks provided so you will be greeted with an amazing beach sunrise every morning. Hike up Fraser Island Rainforest, the only rainforest in the world that grows on sand, or take a dip in one of the 100 over freshwater lakes – an experience as close to paradise as one can get.
Drive from Fraser Island to Noosa Heads
7) Noosa Heads – 2 Days
The “Relaxation Capital of Australia”. It’s time to head to Noosa Heads, which offers more of the coastal charm that Queensland is renowned for.
Noosa Heads is another town that boasts stunning beaches, amazing food, and gorgeous forests. Be sure to stop by Hastings Streets, one of Australia’s most elegant shopping strips. Packed with many unique alfresco dining options, it is the perfect place to chill and people watch. Be wowed by the spectacular views from lookouts on the coastal walks and hiking in Noosa National Park. Ease your pace, take the time to inhale the fresh air, and soak up nature.
Drive from Noosa Heads to Sunshine Coast
8) Sunshine Coast – 2 Days
Pack your bags and get ready for a half hour ride to Sunshine Coast. The fantastic weather here lends itself to all kinds of outdoor fun from water skiing, kayaking adventures, outdoor paintball fights to horse riding, ensuring that there is something for everyone. For a less adrenaline-filled itinerary, check out the SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium, The Ginger Factory which has the world’s largest range of Buderim Ginger products, or pick fresh strawberries at Strawberry Fields Farm.
Still have time to spare? The Sunshine Coast Hinterland allows you to discover the spectacular sights the world has to offer. Glass House Mountains, Maleny, and Montville are just a few picks to take in the stunning view of green valleys and the Pacific Ocean before you continue your journey along the coast.
Drive from Sunshine Coast to Brisbane
9) Brisbane – 1 Day
Proceed on south and you will arrive at the city of Brisbane in less than 2 hours. Home to the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary, Lone Pine has over 130 cuddly koalas for you to adore. Drop by Mount Coot-tha (with local 471 buses from the city) which offers beautiful panoramic views of the city as you sip a cup of coffee. If you’re with your significant other, check out the Summit Restaurant & Bar an unforgettable dining experience. Or explore the beautifully manicured Brisbane Botanical Gardens, where you can have a scenic picnic if the weather permits.
An area full of pristine waterways, Manly Boat Harbour is also conducive for a lovely stroll. As night falls, hang out at the South Bank, which offers a blend of dining, cultural, and nature offerings. Relax over a riverside dinner as you take in the sights and sounds of this wonderful city.
Drive from Brisbane to Gold Coast
10) Goldcoast – 1 Day
After a half hour drive, you will reach the center of sun, sand, sea, and fun. Gold Coast is the epitome of paradise for beach lovers. With more than 70 km of fantastic beaches, such as Southport, Broadbeach, Nobbys, and Coolangatta, you can take your pick of any beach in Gold Coast to relax at. If you are there at the right time, whale watching and dolphin feeding might be available too! The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary would also be a hit with the kids, with plenty of unique wildlife experiences available.
Drive from Gold Coast to Byron Bay
11) Byron Bay – 2 Days
Next, drive up to Byron Bay (under two hours). Once a sleepy coastal town, it is now a popular tourist spot. Take a day to relax on the beach and walk around this quaint little town, filled with charm. They have many small boutiques and cafes, perfect for a quiet afternoon of people watching. Pop by the weekend markets, or stop at the local distillery for an ice-cold drink or two. For the more adventurous, there’s a whole range of watersports you can do!
Drive from Byron Bay to Coffs Harbour
12) Coffs Harbour – 1 Day
A city off the north coast and loved by many for the perpetual sunshine, Coffs Harbour is teeming with attractions. Stop by the Coffs Harbour Holiday Park, where you can enjoy the shows at Dolphin Marine Magic, learn about the sealife through the interactive displays at Solitary Islands Aquarium, and savour fresh seafood along the restaurant-lined Jetty Strip. Be sure to look out for the giant banana structure in celebration of the region’s banana industry, it’s hard to miss it!
Fill up your stomachs or stock up on snacks, as it would be a long but gorgeous road trip along the Legendary Pacific Coast to reach Sydney! Alternatively, you can choose to take a train or fly.
Drive from Coffs Harbour to Sydney
13) Sydney – 3 Days
Continue along the coast and you will reach one of the most liveable cities in the world. A cosmopolitan city, Sydney offers a myriad of sights to see, all conveniently accessible by the public trains and buses. Visit Circular Quay and The Rocks, the oldest part of Sydney, where there are museums, restaurants, street entertainment, weekend markets and the most beautiful view of the Sydney Harbour, the iconic Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Sydney also stages theatre, musicals, concerts and dance performances all year round in majestic venues such as the Sydney Opera House and Capitol Theatre so be sure to catch a show if time permits!
As for Sydney’s famed coastal boardwalks, there is a reason why they attract throngs of tourists. Sydney’s boardwalks are known to be one of the most scenic in the world. From Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach, and the scenic Spit to Manly walking route, take your time to meander through and admire the breathtaking views with a slow walk in Sydney’s perfect weather. An hour’s drive or a 90-minute train ride brings you to the Blue Mountains. Stay a night or two to hike or drive up to lookout points to relax and marvel at the amazing views the mountains have to offer. The scenic skyway is a glass cable car ride that offers dramatic views of the mountain!
Fly from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)
14) Melbourne – 3 Days
Fly two hours by plane and touchdown at the last city of your amazing journey! A place obsessed with art, coffee, and food, Melbourne is packed with things to do and places to visit. Start with a city tour to visit St Patrick’s Cathedral, Arts Centre Melbourne, Yarra River and Cooks’ Cottage. The State Library of Victoria is also one to not miss if you love architecture. Be sure to take an afternoon to visit Queen Victoria Market, which sells a dizzy array of knick-knacks and food, which makes perfect gifts for those back home. Melbourne has also many outlet malls so be sure to snag some great deals before you head home!
If you love the beach, take a day trip out to Phillip Island. This is also where you will see the famous penguin parade. Admire the fascinating migration of the cutest creatures returning from the sea to nest.
Be sure to take in the rest of the city and this beautiful country before you make your way back home.
Fly from Melbourne (MEL) to Singapore (SIN)
Best Of Australia
Australia Itinerary – 10 Days – Best of Australia
Fly from Singapore (SIN) to Melbourne (MEL)
1) Melbourne – 2 Days
Depart Singapore and arrive in Melbourne, the second largest city in Australia, in just 6 hours by flight. A place obsessed with art, coffee, and food, this city is packed with things to do and places to visit. Start with a city tour to visit St Patrick’s Cathedral, Arts Centre Melbourne, Yarra River and Cooks’ Cottage at Fitzroy Gardens. The State Library of Victoria is the place to be for aspiring architects to get inspiration, or for anyone who loves architecture. Don’t miss out on the Queen Victoria Market, where you can browse through an array of knick-knacks and delicious snacks that you cannot find back in Singapore.
If you fancy a drive, rent a car and a 1-day Great Ocean Road tour. Lining the coast are breathtaking rock formations such as the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. Other attractions include Kennett River, Otway Rainforest, Port Campbell National Park.
Take a ferry from Melbourne to Phillip Island
2) Phillip Island – 1 Day
Take a day trip out to Phillip Island, where you will see the famous penguin parade. Admire this truly fascinating migration of the cutest creatures returning from the sea to nest. If you visit the island anytime from May to October, you may even spot the whale migration to the south of Phillip Island. Perfect way to spend the day for the beach lovers out there.
Fly from Melbourne (MEL) to Sydney (SYD)
3) Sydney – 2 Days
Catch a domestic flight to Sydney and arrive in less than 2 hours. A cosmopolitan city, Sydney buzzes with a plethora of sights to see, all easily accessible by the train and bus. Visit Circular Quay and The Rocks, the oldest part of Sydney, where there are museums, restaurants, street entertainment, weekend markets and the most beautiful view of the harbour, the iconic Opera House and bridge.
Take the time and cross over the Harbour Bridge over to North Sydney. Kirribilli has many little boutique cafes, perfect to relax, have a coffee and people watch. If you’re there on the weekend, make it a point to visit the Kirribilli markets selling crafts and pre-owned fashion. Kayaks are also available for rental.
Sydney’s coastal boardwalks are one of the most scenic in the world. From Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach or the picturesque Spit to Manly walking trail, take in the breathtaking views with a slow walk in Sydney’s perfect weather.
Drive from Sydney to Blue Mountains
4) Blue Mountain – 1 Day
For those who live for nature, an hour’s drive or a 90 minute train ride brings you to the Blue Mountains. Stay a night or two to take a hike, or drive up to lookout points to relax and marvel at the amazing views the mountains has to offer. Attractions that must not be missed include Three Sisters, Wentworth Falls, Leura Cascades, Blue Mountain Botanic Gardens and Katoomba Scenic World.
Drive from Sydney to Gold Coast
5) Gold Coast – 2 days
If you fancy a coastal drive, take the scenic 9-hour drive up to Gold Coast from Sydney, or for those on a tight schedule, a 2-hour flight brings you there too. The land of sun, sea, and fun, Gold Coast is the epitome of a place to be a beach lover. With more than 70 km of fantastic beaches, such as Southport, Broadbeach, Nobbys, and Coolangatta, take your pick. If you are there at the right time, there might be whale watching and dolphin feeding too
Have some fun and visit one of the four theme parks in Gold Coast, or even hit up all four! Dreamworld, Sea World, Movie World or Wet ‘n’ Wild, they are jammed pack with activities and rides both suitable for kids and adults. The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary would also be a hit with the kids.
Drive from Gold Coast to Byron Bay
6) Byron Bay – 1 Day
The next day, take a 2-hour drive or bus up to Byron Bay. Once a sleepy coastal town, it is now a popular tourist spot. Take a day to relax on the beach and walk around this quaint little town, oozing with charm. They have many small boutiques and cafes, perfect for a quiet afternoon of people watching. For outdoorsy travelers, the weather in summer would be perfect for hiking on the lighthouse trail or kayaking around Byron Bay.
Drive from Byron Bay to Lamington National Park
7) Lamington National Park – 1 Day
End off your trip in the Land Down Under with a trip to the Lamington National Park. Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, this is the most extensive subtropical rainforest in the world. Take a hike to discover all the beautiful waterfalls scattered all over the park. Breathe in all the fresh air you can before it is time to board your flight home.
Fly home from Gold Coast (OOL) to Singapore (SIN)
Beach Coast
Australia Itinerary – 10 Days – Beach Coast
Fly from Singapore (SIN) to Sydney (SYD)
1) Sydney – 3 Days
Pack your bags and start your journey in Australia in one the most liveable cities in the world – Sydney! A cosmopolitan city, there are plenty of sights to explore, all easily accessible by the train and bus. Visit the Rocks, the oldest part of Sydney, where there are museums, restaurants, street entertainment, weekend markets and the most beautiful view of the harbour, the iconic Opera House and bridge.
Sydney’s coastal boardwalks are one of the most scenic in the world. From Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach or the famous Spit to Manly, take in the breathtaking views with a slow walk in Sydney’s perfect weather. For those who love to admire nature’s wonder, an hour’s drive or a 90-minute train ride will bring you to the Blue Mountains. Stay a night or two to take a hike to lookout points to relax and marvel at the amazing views the mountains have to offer.
Drive from Sydney to Byron Bay
2) Byron Bay – 2 Days
Next, take a 2-hour drive or bus up to Byron Bay. Once a sleepy coastal town, it is now a popular tourist spot. Take a day to relax on the beach and walk around this quaint little town, oozing with charm. They have many small boutiques and cafes, perfect for a quiet afternoon of people watching. If you have the luxury of time, pop by the weekend markets, or go to the local Distillery. For the more adventurous, try out a whole range of watersports you can do!
Drive from Byron Bay to Gold Coas t
3) Gold Coast – 2 days
If you fancy a coastal drive, drive down to Gold Coast from Sydney, or else, a 2-hour flight brings you there too. The land of sun, sea and fun, Gold Coast is the epitome of a place to be a beach bum. With more than 70 km of fantastic beaches, such as Southport, Broadbeach, Nobbys, and Coolangatta, take your pick. Take a walk on the sandy shores of Surfer’s Paradise and visit the popular markets while you’re there. If you are there at the right time, there might be whale watching and dolphin feeding available too! The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can get up close and personal with the kangaroos, koalas, and wombats would also be a big hit with the kids.
Drive from Gold Coast to Brisbane
4) Brisbane – 1 day
Brisbane is only a half hour car ride away from the Gold Coast. The world’s first and largest koala sanctuary, Lone Pine has over 130 cuddly koalas for you to admire. Drop by Mt Coot-tha (with local 471 buses from the city) which offers beautiful panoramic views of the city as you sip a cup of coffee. Manly Boat Harbour is also an area full of pristine waterways, perfect for a lovely stroll. As night falls, hang out around the South bank where the restaurants are and have dinner as you take in the atmosphere of this wonderful country.
Drive from Brisbane to Sunshine Coast
5) Sunshine Coast – 2 Days
The fantastic weather here lends itself to all kinds of fun sports! Try your hand at water skiing, kayaking adventures, outdoor paintball fights or horse riding, there is something for everyone. If this is not for you, check out SEA LIFE to be up close and personal with wildlife, visit The Ginger Factory or pick fresh strawberries at Strawberry Fields. If time is on your side, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland allows you to discover the spectacular sights this world has to offer. Glass House Mountains, Maleny, and Montville are just a few picks to take in the stunning view of green valleys and the Pacific Ocean before you head back home.
Great Ocean Road
Australia Itinerary – 9 Days – Great Ocean Road
Fly from Singapore (SIN) to Melbourne (MEL)
1) Melbourne – 4 Days
Fly from Singapore Changi Airport and arrive in Melbourne, the second largest city in Australia, in just 6 hours. A place obsessed with art, coffee, and food, the city is packed with things to do and places to visit. Start with a city tour to visit St Patrick’s Cathedral, Arts Centre Melbourne, Yarra River, and Cooks’ Cottage at Fitzroy Gardens. The State Library of Victoria is also one to not miss if you adore architecture. Be sure to take an afternoon to visit Queen Victoria Market, where you can take your pick from an array of knick-knacks and snack which makes for perfect gifts to bring home to your loved ones.
If you love the beach, take a day trip out to Phillip Island. This is also where you will see the famous penguin parade. Admire this truly fascinating migration of the cutest creatures returning from the sea to nest. Another place you may want to check out is Mornington Peninsula, where you can soak at a hot spring, visit wineries, and enjoy a strawberry farm day tour.
Drive from Melbourne to Yarra Valley
2) Yarra Valley & Dandedong Ranges – 1 Day
Escape the city with an hour’s drive to Yarra Valley where you get to indulge in food and wine. Once there, of course, winery visits are a must. Don’t miss out on a hot air balloon ride to get a bird’s eye view of the gorgeous glades and forests of the Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges. Cast your worries aside as you wander around the meandering walking trails, littered with quaint local craft stores and cafes. The amazing weather year round also calls for a picnic in the garden, surrounded by beautiful flowers.
3) Great Ocean Road – 3 Days
Prepare for a great road trip by loading a bunch of snacks into your car for the amazing coastal drive. The Great Ocean Road is one of the most famous coastal drives in Australia.
Here are our top picks to stop off at:
Great Ocean Road – Day 1 – Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay
The adventure begins after cutting through Geelong, where you’ll arrive at Torquay. Also known as the starting point of the Great Ocean Road, Torquay (a name synonymous with surfing) is a small surf town. Just 5 minutes up the road is Bells Beach, a marine protected area which plays host to the sport’s longest-running competition and where the lineage of surfing brands such as Rip Curl and Quiksilver started.
You will pass by resort towns Anglesea and Lorne. Lorne is indeed a worthwhile detour for those who enjoy walks with nature. Located just outside the town, Erskine Falls, a stunning 30 m drop waterfall is a sight to behold, while you soak in the sounds of the forest.
If that isn’t enough for you, there are also Henderson Falls, Phantom Falls, Upper and Lower Kalimna Falls, Sheoak Falls with Swallow Cave and the Cora Lynn Cascades.
Between Lorne and Apollo Bay, be sure to make a turn to visit Kennett River. While it is easy to miss, the tiny town is one of the Great Ocean Road’s highlights. This is often where visitors get to see wild koala sightings and a spectacular array of beautiful cockatoos, lorikeets, and exotic tropical birds. Drop by the popular Koala Cove Café where you can purchase food to lure local king parrots and kookaburras to get up and personal with.
You’re now about 200 km into your journey and you have finally arrived at Apollo Bay. A near perfect semi-circular beach, Apollo Bay is perfect to relax by the beach, have a lovely seafood dinner, and explore the Great Otway National Park if you wish. Check in at the Apollo Bay Hotel, and wind down the night with a pint of beer in hand.
Great Ocean Road – Day 2 – Hopetoun Falls, 12 Apostles, Port Campbell
Get up bright and early and breathe in the fresh air at Hopetoun Falls just a few kilometers away. Although 200 steps down to see the falls might be stressful on the knees, it is definitely a beautiful sight from below. If the weather is good, bring a swimsuit so you can hop on in and take a quick dip in the Aire River.
When you’re done splashing around, make your way to the legendary 12 Apostles. With limestone rocks towering over the clear aquamarine waters and the backwash of the waves caressing the golden sand, the scenery definitely deserves more than a few pictures. This tourist hotspot can get crowded at sunset, so be prepared if you are heading there late.
Continue on your journey and stop by Port Campbell. Here, stop for some food and try the fish and chips from Frying Nemo. There is much to do in this colourful seaside village so slow down and explore the local history and of course stroll along the coasts and trails to take in the beauty of this area. Heading inland to Kanawinka Geotrail is also an option to see some volcanic lakes and craters.
Great Ocean Road – Day 3 – Bay of Islands, Loch and Gorge, Warrnambool
It is the last day of your Great Ocean Road tour! A short half hour’s drive brings you to Bay of Islands, traditionally an area that belongs to the aboriginals. An absolute paradise for people who love the view of the ocean, soak up a landscape that is packed full of astounding geological features. There are two viewing platforms and a couple of places to see, mainly Wild Dog Cove, Bay of Martyrs and Massacre Point and Bay.
Proceed to enjoy the wonders of nature in Loch Ard Gorge. Take time to explore the trails, from the geology walks to the wreck lookout, and be amazed by how nature has shaped a place so beautifully.
The final stop is Warrnambool. Check out the Allansford Cheese World to try the award-winning Warrnambool Heritage Cheddar where new flavours are introduced seasonally, or Timor Street Market for funky bits and pieces such as antiques and other collectibles. If you are here on a Sunday and prepared for an uphill workout, access the walk to the Mount Elephant Crater to view its full glory. Warrnambool is also home to bars and cafes galore to soothe any hunger pangs.
4) Melbourne – 1 Day
After returning to the city, take some time to chill, check out an exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria, or grab a hot cuppa at one of the many amazing cafes in Melbourne’s laneways. Take a cab or Skybus shuttle to the airport for your flight back to sunny Singapore.
Fly home from Melbourne (MEL) to Singapore (SIN)
Tasmania
Australia Itinerary – 7 Days – Tasmania
Tasmania is nothing like the cities of Australia. While dense with wilderness and wildlife, the sparse population and isolation of the place makes it an attractive place to many city dwellers need a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Given the honor of having the world’s cleanest air, breathe it all in you can as you venture on this 1-week adventure.
Fly from Singapore (SIN) to Tasmania via Melbourne
1) Devonport – 1 Day
After a short stopover in Melbourne, fly into Devonport Airport, Tasmania. There is no better way than to get around by car as public transport is not easily accessible. Devonport is a quiet seaside village but don’t let its sleepy town exterior deceive you. There are many small unique attractions to visit: Anvers chocolate for the finest Tasmanian chocolates, the cherry shed to have the juiciest cherries, Ashgrove for farm fresh dairy products and the Creamery for premium quality ice-cream and gelato.
Once you are done filling your stomachs with the freshest of produce, pop by the Lillico Beach to look at the penguin conservation and the Don River Railway for a ride in an olden day train.
Drive from Devonport to Stanley
2) Stanley – 1 Day
Jump back into your car and follow the coast northwards towards Stanley. Stanley, while often missed by many tourists, is home to ‘The Edge of the World’. An unusual land formation known as ‘The Nut’, it is a solidified lava lake of a long extinct volcano.
Take this hike or a simpler route in Tarkine (just half an hour’s drive away) where there are towering eucalypt forests. The Circular Head Region also offers some unique shopping, look out for original Tasmanian arts and crafts that would make great souvenirs. The small town has really colourful buildings which in itself makes it worth a visit.
Drive from Stanley to Cradle Mountain
3) Cradle Mountain – 1 day
A two-hour drive inland takes you to Cradle Mountain. Part of the Tasmanian World Heritage Wilderness Area, the park provides rich habitat to many species of wildlife – the Tasmanian devils and the platypus, just to name two. You will be greeted by stunning views that you cannot forget – think postcard-perfect shots of ancient rainforest and alpine lands. Take a walk and enjoy the surroundings or the more adventurous can launch yourself off waterfalls or abseil down cliffs. It is also the perfect place to camp out or if this not your thing, there are luxurious wilderness lodges for rent.
Drive from Cradle Mountain to Strahan
4) Strahan – 1 day
Cross the island and get to the west coast in two hours. Strahan was once a place where prisoners were sent to, and has since become a tourist stop with streets lined with delicious local eateries and shops selling artisan items. Visit Sarah Island, a notorious convict prison to learn about some history to this island. Alternatively, take a day trip out to Bonnet Island or Dubbil Barril. Here, you can also rent a Strahan ATV and ride around the Henty Dunes!
Drive from Strahan to Hobart
5) Hobart – 1 Day
4.5 hours away from Strahan is Hobart, one of Tasmania’s popular tourist destination. Visit the historic Hobart Harbour to experience the serenity and quietness in the morning. Continue your day to visit Salamanca Markets, known as one of Australia’s best markets. Here, take your time to walk down the long street to slowly browse local handicrafts and street food while buskers serenade you. For those interested in Tasmania’s history, visit the female factory to learn more about the convict world. End the day by enjoying some great beers and ciders on the terrace at The Cascade Brewery.
Drive from Hobart to Launceston
6) Launceston – 1 Day
Tasmania’s second largest city behind Hobart, Launceston is a city full of Victorian architecture with parks littered all around. Visit Cataract Gorge, Queen Victoria Museum and art gallery. If you are there on a Saturday morning, visit the Harvests Markets that are full of local providers and quality produce.
Drive from Hobart to Launceston
7) Tamar Valley – 1 Day
Just 15 minutes away from the city is Tamar Valley. With over 30 wineries in the valley, Tamar valley is indeed wine heaven. Try out excellent wine across all the different cellars. If you are a teetotaller or are traveling with kids, there are also plenty of things to do in the valley.
Take a day trip from Launceston and drive up the West Bank through Exeter and Beaconsfield to Beauty Point, then across the Batman Bridge and back down the East bank via such attractions as Low Head and the Hillwood Berry Farm. Along the way pick your choice of visit – Beaconsfield Gold Mines, Platypus House Georgetown and the Artisan Gallery. After, take a short drive back to Launceston and get ready to fly home!
Drive back to Launceston
Fly from Launceston Airport (LST) to Singapore (SIN)