For many people, travelling to Australia is the ultimate holiday dream. Images of sun-kissed golden beaches and shimmering turquoise waters sit alongside those of dusty outback pubs and laid-back locals. Top this off with one of the world's most beautiful and instantly recognisable cities and it is easy to see why touring Australia remains so perennially popular. Travel in Australia is relatively cheap and efficient, but there is no getting away from the fact that this is a huge country, so it is inevitable that any visitor will have some difficult choices to make. Unless you have unlimited time available for your trip, you won't be able to see and do everything. Each of the following suggestions is a spectacular destination in its own right. Build your itinerary around them and your Aussie adventure will be one holiday you never forget.
Sydney
When you are planning where to go and what to do in Australia, the first inclusion on any itinerary should be Sydney. Few cities anywhere in the world boast as glorious a setting as Sydney Harbour. The majestic Sydney Harbour Bridge and the iconic Sydney Opera House add a sense of glitz and glamour to this stunning natural inlet and the result is so beautiful that it will almost certainly lead to love at first sight. Beyond the harbour you will find a vibrant city with a buzzing nightlife and a thriving Arts scene, not to mention numerous stretches of gorgeous golden sand including the world famous Bondi Beach.
Uluru
For a complete change of scene, head inland to central Australia, where you will find Uluru. Also known as Ayers Rock, this enormous sandstone monolith is one of Australia's most famous landmarks. Seeing the colours of the rock change, through shades of orange, brown and deep red, as the sun sets over Uluru is a magical experience. So too is dining under a night sky filled with thousands upon thousands of stars that shine in a dazzling display unhindered by the lights of the city.
Whitsundays
If luxury and relaxation is what you crave, one of the most decadent things to do in Australia is to take a yacht or motorboat around the Whitsunday Islands. Even if you can't afford a boat of your own, there are plenty of opportunities to join group tours and take day trips amongst these stunning tropical islands. Situated in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the 74 islands that make up the Whitsundays are the perfect place for a relaxing cruise or to take a spectacular snorkelling or diving trip. Warm waters teeming with life and beaches of pristine white sand make the Whitsunday Islands a classic tropical island paradise.
There are plenty more options for holidays in Australia, and you will have little trouble finding the right balance for your visit. But by making these three elements – Sydney, Reef and Rock – central to you plans, you are virtually assured of a spectacular trip. The only decision left will be whether to discover somewhere new on your next adventure down under or to give into temptation and do the same thing all over again.
Join the Conversation