things to do in australia

1See Kangaroos in the Wild at Grampians National Park

If you were to ask someone, what is the first thing that springs to mind when they think of Australia, kangaroos will most likely be their answer. No trip to Australia is complete without seeing these fascinating and majestic animals in their natural habitat. 

In the Grampians, you can hire a local experienced guide to take you to some of the best places to see kangaroos. You can learn more about the area by visiting the award winning Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

There is nowhere better to see kangaroos than in the gorgeous and scenic Grampians National Park in Victoria. Aside from kangaroos, you are also likely to come across koalas and emus in the Park. Alternatively, trek up one of the many sandstone peaks and  you will be rewarded with stunning vistas of the park.

2Visit Vineyards and sip Wine in Barossa Valley

As any good wine connoisseur can tell you, Australia produces a spectacular variety of wines. From bold and flavorful Pinot Noirs, to a delicious Shiraz, tasting these wines should be on the itinerary of any visitor to Australia.

If this sounds like something which appeals to you, we definitely recommend visiting the Barossa Valley region of South Australia. Here, red wine is king. Numerous award-winning vineyards dot the landscape of the Valley. Many of them are open to visitors, allowing you to explore these world-class vineyards and taste their delicious varieties of wines. So, if you are a lover of wine, visiting a Barossa vineyard is without a doubt one of the top things to do in Australia.

3Stay in a Cozy, Luxury Lodges

The vastness and diversity of Australia is reflected in the country’s numerous luxury lodges. Take, for example, The Silky Oaks Lodge in the Daintree Rainforest, at Queensland. This lodge is spectacularly placed on lush banks of the Mossman Gorge. The region is replete with incredible natural beauty, so make sure you take a guided walk through some of the area’s most spectacular locations and gorges.

Other luxury lodges offer expansive ocean views, rustic charm in the outback, or the absolute cutting edge in contemporary design and comfort. So whatever your taste, you are bound to find one that is right for you.

4Discover some Unique Aboriginal Experiences

The Aboriginal experience is the untold story of Australia. For a long time, their  language, cultures, and customs were ignored or restricted by European colonists. The impact of this is still felt today, with relatively few people outside of Australia being particularly knowledgeable about these indigenous people. This is a shame, as Aboriginal culture is rich and fascinating. Luckily, today there are many  ways you can truly explore and celebrate the unique cultures of Australia’s Aboriginal people. 

It is now possible to hire an Aboriginal guide who can introduce you to their culture first hand, help you explore the outback, or understand the beautiful nuances of the vibrant Aboriginal art, created by those who have lived in Australia for centuries before the Europeans came

You can enjoy an Aboriginal culinary experience, attempt traditional hunting or farming practices, and taste food you are unlikely to ever have had before. The Sound of Silence Dining experience near Uluru is particularly worthwhile, allowing you to observe the striking natural monument as you eat under the stars.

5Learn the History of the Opera House in Sydney

The Sydney Opera House is one of the most famous and recognizable buildings in the world. Yet, the story of this unique building is not nearly as well known. So why not satisfy your curiosity by taking a tour of this landmark, during which you can learn its history, the stories of the builders, architects, and the performers that have made it the cultural institution that it is today? 

Spend an evening enjoying a performance at the Opera House. Given the building’s esteem and fame, some of the best opera companies and singers in the world flock to Sydney to perform. A tour of the Opera House which change your perception about this historic building forever.

6Enjoy the Vibrant Art, Food, and Cultural Scene of Melbourne

Melbourne is a true cultural capital, a city of outstanding galleries, museums, and performance venues. This is in addition to some truly delectable restaurants and cozy cafes. 

Picture yourself having breakfast at the popular Hardware Societe Cafe, before heading out to the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, or admiring Melbourne’s excellent street art as you explore the city. After this, you could spend an afternoon looking at some of the best examples  of Australian artwork in the National Gallery of Australia, before a sunset boat ride and meal aboard the Spirit of Melbourne cruising restaurant. 

In Melbourne, you might discover a home away from home.

7See Marine Life in the Great Barrier Reef

Australia’s iconic Great Barrier Reef is unquestionably one of the wonders of the natural world. This massive, 350,000 square kilometer (roughly the same size as Japan and only slightly smaller than Germany) reef illuminates the waters off Queensland in a sensational, multicolor display of coral.

The Great Barrier Reef is best enjoyed up close. If you wish, you can dive and swim among the teeming menagerie of sea life, which call the reef home, or you can stay dry and view the reef from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat. The choice is yours, but whatever you choose, it will be something you will remember for years to come.

8Enjoy the Sunrise and Sunset View at Ayers Rock/Uluru

Uluru (formerly Ayers Rock, and renamed after the land was passed back to the Aboriginal people) is a symbol of Australia.This massive formation of sandstone stands proudly over the dust and sand of the Australian outback. Perhaps for this reason, Uluru has long been sacred to local Aboriginal groups. Indeed, their ancient paintings and inscriptions still mark the surface of the rockface. Although it is a good 300 miles south-west of the nearest large town of Alice Springs, it is well worth taking the time to visit this important cultural and national landmark.

It is important to note that as a way to protect this sacred landmark, Uluru will very soon be closed for climbers, and no longer possible to summit. This is not a problem, however, as Uluru is best enjoyed and appreciated from a distance.

9Trek Through the World Heritage Scenery of the Blue Mountains

Australia’s Blue Mountain Range is famous for its rugged beauty. It is an area marked by huge rock faces, steep cliffs and stunning waterfalls. As you explore the Blue Mountains, passing forests of eucalyptus, and vast canyons,  you will feel a greater connection with Australia, and the natural world. Some of the best hiking routes in the country are located in this area of boundless natural beauty. So, if you are a lover of the great outdoors, then hiking in the Blue Mountains is a must.

10Explore the Ultimate Breakfast and Brunch Destinations Around Brisbane

If you are a foodie at heart, visiting Brisbane is definitely recommended. The city is filled with charming cafes and gourmet restaurants, which will satiate any appetite.

Putia Pure Food Kitchen, in particular, is a hit with locals. As the restaurant also doubles as a cookery school, you can be assured of the exceptional standard of the food. Or, if you want to try a place which serve you the very best of local produce, head to the popular Lady Marmalade Cafe for delicious coffee and a healthy and scrumptious breakfast.