Australia delivers a mix of wild landscapes, coastal cities, and rich culture that feels both expansive and refreshing. Sydney sets the tone with its harborfront icons, where days can drift between Bondi’s cliffside walks, ferry rides to Manly, and evenings next to the Opera House. Melbourne brings a different rhythm with laneway cafés, vintage markets, and a creative energy that spills from Fitzroy to St Kilda. The Great Barrier Reef islands offer snorkeling above coral gardens, guided reef flights, and secluded eco-lodges that open directly to turquoise water. Across the country, you’ll find everything from Outback adventures and kangaroo-spotting in Perth to wine tasting in Margaret River and sailing through the Whitsunday Islands. Whether it’s historical landmarks, remote wilderness, or underwater wonder, Australia rewards travelers with immersive, scenic journeys.
Need to know
Image courtesy of e qualia, Great Barrier Reef
Australia is larger than you think, so expect long travel times between regions. Whether you want wildlife, surf towns, or standout food and wine, these insider tips will help any trip unfold with ease.
Currency: Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards and contactless payments are accepted almost everywhere. Cash is less common but still useful for small markets or rural areas. Tipping isn’t expected, though rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is appreciated.
Languages: English is the national language, though Australians have their own distinct slang and relaxed way of speaking. Expect friendly and informal conversations wherever you go.
Key phrases: g’day (hello), brekkie (breakfast), mate (friend), barbie (barbecue), good on ya (good job/well done), how ya going? (how are you doing?).
Airports: Sydney (SYD) and Melbourne (MEL) offer the most international connections, with flights to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Dallas. Brisbane (BNE) offers additional connections to North America, while Perth (PER) is the best hub for non-stops to Europe, specifically London and Paris. Cairns (CNS) is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, but many islands have small airports with flights to Sydney and Melbourne.
Transportation: Australia is huge, so flying between regions is the fastest, most common option. Major cities are walkable, Uber is widely available, and strong public transport networks exist. Driving is best for remote areas and scenic routes like the Great Ocean Road. Long-distance rail is mostly for luxury experiences. Great Barrier Reef islands are reached through smaller airports or ferries from larger cities like Cairns.
Best time to visit: Australia is a year-round destination with generally dry weather and reversed seasons from the Northern Hemisphere. Summer (December–February) brings hot, sunny days, especially in the north and along the coasts. Fall (March–May) and spring (September–November) offer the most comfortable weather across the country for sightseeing and outdoor exploration. Winter (June–August) stays mild in southern regions, but can be cool enough for a light coat, while the north remains warm and tropical.
Ideal length of stay: Plan a minimum of 10 days to make the long journey worthwhile. This allows for a balanced itinerary of city highlights, coastal escapes, and nature adventures. Hopping between Australia and New Zealand isn’t practical without at least three weeks.
Signature dishes and drinks:
Barramundi: Mild, flaky Australian fish often grilled with lemon.
Sydney rock oysters: Small, briny, and best enjoyed fresh by the water.
Moreton bay bugs: A Queensland lobster, usually served buttered or chargrilled.
Lamingtons: Chocolate-and-coconut–coated sponge cake.
Flat white: A staple of Australia’s café culture, especially in Melbourne.
Wines: Hunter Valley Semillon, and Yarra Valley Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
What to wear: Australia leans polished but relaxed. Think breathable fabrics, smart-casual pieces, and comfortable shoes. Coastal spots are easygoing, island resorts call for breezy resort wear, and Melbourne tends to favor sleek layers and minimalist style.
Travel tips:
Visa: Most travelers will need a visa or an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) before arrival. Don’t skip this step.
Sun and beach safety: Hats, sunscreen, and protective clothing are essential. Swim between flagged areas, and heed lifeguard warnings to avoid strong currents and sharks.
Plugs: Australia uses Type I plugs, and bring an adapter if you’re from North America.
Smoking: Generally banned indoors and restricted in many outdoor areas.
Alcohol: Legal drinking age is 18. Bottle shops and supermarkets generally sell until 10 p.m., public drinking is restricted in many areas, and there is zero tolerance for DUIs.
Driving: Drive on the left-hand side of the road. Watch out for strict speed limits and wildlife on rural routes.
Medications: Bring prescriptions in original packaging. Pharmacies are reliable, but some over-the-counter U.S. medications require a prescription in Australia.
Sydney
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
Coastal walks, laid-back sophistication, and urban buzz that coexists with easy beachside living define the Sydney experience. Spend mornings strolling Circular Quay and the Royal Botanic Garden. Head to Bondi or Manly beaches for afternoon surfing. In the evenings, dine by the Opera House at a world-class restaurant.
Where to stay
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney: Landmark harborside luxury set beside Circular Quay, offering panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Sleek rooms, elevated dining, and impeccable service make it a reliable choice.
When you book Four Seasons with Fora, you’ll enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.
Capella Sydney: A heritage icon reimagined within a 20th-century sandstone building in the heart of the city. Refined interiors, curated art, and an exceptional spa create an atmosphere of understated grandeur and modern sophistication.
Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Park Hyatt Sydney: Set between the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, this waterfront retreat blends contemporary style with world-class service. Spacious rooms with private balconies and an award-winning restaurant set the scene for an indulgent urban escape.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Porter House Hotel Sydney - MGallery: A blend of history and modernity housed in a restored 19th-century building. Chic interiors, creative dining, and boutique touches create a cosmopolitan retreat infused with charm and character.
Fora’s Accor Preferred partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Ace Hotel Sydney: This creative hub in Surry Hills is designed for travelers who appreciate art, music, and community. Industrial-chic interiors, a lively rooftop bar, and local-inspired dining capture Sydney’s youthful, dynamic spirit.
Fora Reserve perks include a $50 hotel credit, welcome amenity, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
QT Bondi: Playful and stylish, this beachside boutique hotel offers vibrant design and laid-back luxury just steps from Bondi Beach. Ideal for those craving ocean views, surf culture, and a dose of Sydney’s signature cool.
Great Barrier Reef
Image courtesy of InterContinental Hayman Island Resort
Scattered across turquoise waters and coral reefs are islands that offer resort-style relaxation. Hamilton Island buzzes with activity and dining in Marina Village. Hayman Island delivers refined luxury and private seclusion. Lizard Island feels remote and untouched, surrounded by coral gardens and clear lagoons.
Where to stay
qualia, Great Barrier Reef (Hamilton Island): A secluded, adults-only sanctuary blending contemporary design with tropical tranquility. Private pavilions, infinity pools, and exceptional service create a serene escape surrounded by the beauty of the Whitsundays.
Fora Perks include daily breakfast, a complimentary experience, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
InterContinental Hayman Island Resort: Glamorous island retreat where palm-lined pools, white-sand beaches, and world-class dining meet effortless elegance. Ideal for couples and families seeking barefoot luxury in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
Fora’s IHG Destined partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Lizard Island Resort: The ultimate tropical hideaway, offering secluded villas, pristine beaches, and direct access to coral reefs. Remote and refined, it’s a haven for diving, romance, and pure relaxation at the edge of the world.
Fora Perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Melbourne
Image courtesy of The Langham, Melbourne
Melbourne is a creative and cultural capital known for its hidden laneways, café culture, and art-driven energy. Wander from sleek galleries and vintage shops to rooftop bars and wine bars tucked behind graffiti-covered alleys. It’s perfectly placed for day trips to the Yarra Valley wine region, Great Ocean Road, and Phillip Island, adding depth to any stay.
Where to stay
The Langham, Melbourne: Sophisticated and timeless, this riverside classic exudes elegance with its grand interiors, Chuan Spa, and renowned high tea. Overlooking the Yarra River, it’s a polished retreat that captures Melbourne’s refined yet welcoming charm.
Fora’s COUTURE by Langham partner perks include a £125 hotel credit, daily breakfast, welcome amenity, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The StandardX, Melbourne: A creative, industrial-cool hideaway in artsy Fitzroy. Expect bold design, lively social spaces, and an effortlessly creative vibe. Rooms are minimalist, the rooftop is a hotspot, and the surrounding area is packed with galleries, wine bars, and boutiques.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
1 Hotel Melbourne: Sustainable luxury along the Yarra River, featuring organic materials and manicured greenery. Soft earth tones, farm-to-table dining, and a serene spa create a calming, restorative retreat that balances eco-conscious ethos with elevated comfort.
Fora Perks include a $75 AUD hotel credit, welcome amenity, an upgrade, and extended check-out whenever possible.
Cruising to and around Australia
Image courtesy of Silversea Cruises
Many cruise itineraries pair Australia with New Zealand, sailing between Sydney, Melbourne, and Auckland. Shorter three- to five-night voyages loop roundtrip from Sydney or Melbourne aboard lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival. For longer sailings, Celebrity, Azamara, and Viking offer refined, port-intensive routes. Expedition lines such as Silversea and Seabourn venture farther afield, reaching remote corners of the Kimberley or Tasmania with immersive, nature-driven experiences.
Popular itineraries
New Zealand: One-way sailings between Sydney or Melbourne and Auckland. Highlights often include Milford Sound, Wellington, and sea days across the Tasman.
Great Barrier Reef: Roundtrip sailings from Sydney or Brisbane explore Queensland’s coast, including stops at Airlie Beach, Cairns, and Port Douglas.
Tasmania: Shorter itineraries from Sydney or Melbourne circle the island, calling at Hobart, Port Arthur, and Wineglass Bay with rugged scenery, seafood, and wine.
Kimberley Coast: Expedition voyages between Darwin and Broome navigate remote red cliffs, waterfalls, and Aboriginal rock art sites for wilderness and cultural depth.
South Pacific: Warm-weather escapes to New Caledonia, Vanuatu, and Fiji. These cruises blend beach time with opportunities to explore island traditions and coral reefs.
Australia circumnavigation: Extended month-long voyages tracing the coastline to Australia’s varied landscapes and distant coastal cities in one grand journey.
Notable cruise lines
Royal Caribbean: A family-friendly favorite known for its large, activity-filled ships featuring entertainment, dining variety, and modern amenities.
Fora Perks include a specialty dining experience for balcony cabins and above, plus a spa treatment for Junior Suites and above on select sailings.
Carnival Cruise Line: Casual, fun-focused sailings with lively entertainment, relaxed dining, and affordable fares for their easy getaways.
Celebrity Cruises: A modern premium line combining style, comfort, and culinary excellence. Longer itineraries highlight cultural depth and elevated onboard experiences.
Fora Perks include up to $200 onboard credit per stateroom on select sailings.
Azamara: A boutique cruise line offering destination-rich itineraries. Its smaller ships focus on cultural immersion and personalized service, creating a relaxed yet refined experience.
Fora Perks include up to $200 shipboard credit per stateroom on select voyages. Virtuoso Voyages Hosted Benefits also available on select sailings.
Silversea Cruises: An ultra-luxury line with all-suite ships, attentive service, and curated excursions. Their popular expedition voyages emphasize wilderness access and local expertise.
Virtuoso Voyages Hosted Benefits available on select sailings.
Seabourn Cruise Line: Boutique ultra-luxury brand known for spacious suites, gourmet dining, and all-inclusive elegance with remote coastal exploration.
Virtuoso Voyages Hosted Benefits available on select sailings.
Viking Cruises: A refined, destination-focused line with elegant ships, regional cuisine, and thoughtfully curated activities at each port.
Fora Perks include up to $200 onboard credit per stateroom on select departures.
History and culture
Australia’s story begins with the world’s oldest continuous living culture. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have called the continent home for over 60,000 years. Their traditions, art, and spiritual connection to the land have shaped the country’s identity. Dreaming stories explain the creation of landscapes like Uluru and Kata Tjuta, which remain sacred sites and powerful symbols of living heritage. British colonization began in 1788, marking a profound turning point that continues to shape dialogue and reconciliation today.
Over time, Australia transformed from a penal colony into a federation of vibrant cities and remote communities bound by a distinct, laid-back character. Modern travelers can trace these layers of history in destinations like Sydney’s historic Rocks district, Hobart’s convict-era architecture, and the red heart of the Outback. Locals are welcoming, direct, and deeply connected to the land. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions ground each region with meaning, and acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land is an essential part of any visit, especially at cultural sites. Contemporary cultural festivals, Indigenous-led tours, and art centers invite visitors to engage with both the country’s ancient roots and its evolving story.
Cultural celebrations and events
Australia Day (January 26, nationwide): National celebrations with parades, fireworks, and festivals. Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra host the largest events.
Sydney Festival (January, Sydney): Month-long arts festival featuring theater, music, visual arts, and outdoor installations.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival (March–April, Melbourne): One of the world’s largest comedy festivals, from stand-up to experimental theater.
Vivid Sydney (May–June, Sydney): Winter festival of light, music, and ideas. Landmarks are illuminated, with performances and talks throughout the city.
Dark Mofo (June, Hobart): Winter festival celebrating art, music, and food under the Southern Hemisphere’s longest nights.
NAIDOC Week (July, nationwide): Celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture with performances, community events, and educational programs.
What to do in Australia
From wild coastlines to cosmopolitan hubs, Australia’s a landscape where adventure, culture, and natural beauty meet in unexpected ways.
Sydney
Sydney Opera House: Go behind the scenes with a private guide, then toast with champagne on a secluded rooftop overlooking the harbor and Harbour Bridge.
Taronga Zoo: Meet koalas, kangaroos, and other Australian species with an expert-led experience.
Bondi to Bronte Walk: Walk a path along the coast, pausing at seaside cafés and scenic lookout points.
Sydney Tower Eye: Take in sweeping city views, capped with a private champagne toast as the sun sets beyond the skyline.
Blue Mountains: Explore dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and eucalyptus forests with a private guide.
Hunter Valley: Visit boutique wineries for private tastings and cellar tours, sampling standout Semillon and Shiraz.
Surry Hills & Newtown: Browse curated galleries, independent boutiques, and street-art laneways.
The Rocks: Wander heritage laneways and quiet courtyards to discover artisan shops and the city’s early colonial history.
Darlinghurst: Explore galleries and designer boutiques, ending with cocktails at a stylish bar in this LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhood.
Sydney Harbour: Climb to the top of the Harbour Bridge before setting sail on a private yacht or catamaran, complete with gourmet catering and views of the Opera House.
Great Barrier Reef
Helicopter: Fly over the reef on a private tour, touching down on a secluded sand cay for champagne, canapés, and sweeping Coral Sea views.
Snorkeling and diving: Explore remote reefs, drifting through vivid coral gardens alongside sea turtles and tropical fish.
Sailing: Depart from Hamilton or Hayman Island on a privately chartered boat with gourmet catering, hidden coves, and untouched islands.
Whitehaven Beach: Arrive by private yacht or seaplane to walk the pristine silica sands and enjoy a tailored picnic set against turquoise water.
Whitsunday Islands: Join a guided exploration to learn about the marine ecosystem, endangered species, and ongoing reef conservation efforts.
Melbourne
National Gallery of Victoria: Explore the expansive collection of standout works and quieter corners of Australia’s oldest art museum.
Hosier Lane: Walk laneways with a local expert, uncovering ever-shifting murals and street art shaping Melbourne’s urban culture.
Royal Botanic Gardens: Wander the gardens to see rare plant collections, hidden pathways, and serene waterways.
Food tour: Sample boutique coffee roasters, artisanal bakeries, and inventive small-plate spots on a culinary walk through Fitzroy and Collingwood.
Heide Museum of Modern Art: Explore sculpture gardens and contemporary exhibitions in a calm, gallery-rich setting.
Historic Laneways: Enjoy a private walking tour through Melbourne’s iconic laneways, including the Block Arcade and surrounding designer boutiques.
Queen Victoria Market: Take an exclusive tour of the market, meeting local vendors and tasting fresh produce, gourmet specialties, and small-batch goods.
Federation Square and State Library: Access architectural highlights, rotating exhibitions, and hidden reading rooms typically closed to the public.
Shrine of Remembrance: Walk the memorial with a knowledgeable guide, ending with panoramic city views from its elevated lookout.
Brunswick Food Scene: Explore the area with a chef or food historian, sampling global flavors, boutique wines, and specialty treats.
Where to eat in Australia
Australia’s restaurants bring together coastal flavors, inventive chefs, and vibrant local produce, creating a grounded and creative food scene.
Sydney
Saint Peter: A chef-driven seafood restaurant with sustainable, locally sourced fish, innovative techniques, and refined presentations in an intimate, elegant setting.
Quay: Overlooking Sydney Harbour, Quay offers inventive fine dining with dramatic plating and tasting menus highlighting seasonal Australian produce.
Bennelong: Set inside the Sydney Opera House, this iconic restaurant blends modern Australian cuisine with stunning harbor views.
Firedoor: A unique, wood-fired dining experience in Surry Hills showcasing local ingredients with bold, smoky flavors and a minimalist approach.
Ester: A Surry Hills favorite known for its wood-fired oven, creative sharing plates, and casual-luxe vibes.
Melbourne
Caretaker’s Cottage: An intimate cocktail bar known for inventive drinks, seasonal ingredients, and a cozy, hidden-away vibe.
Byrdi: A modern bar with globally inspired cocktails and small plates, combining cutting-edge mixology with sustainable practices.
Attica: A Michelin-style chef’s table experience offering innovative Australian cuisine, emphasizing native ingredients and refined, multi-course tasting menus.
Minamishima: An exclusive sushi counter serving precision-crafted omakase, sourced from the finest local and Japanese ingredients for an intimate dining experience.
Chin Chin: A contemporary Thai-inspired hotspot blending bold flavors, shareable plates, and a lively, stylish atmosphere.
Serai: Modern Malaysian cuisine in a sleek, upscale setting, featuring small plates, specialty cocktails, and refined takes on traditional Southeast Asian dishes.
Lune: A cult-favorite bakery producing world-class pastries, particularly sourdough and croissants, in a minimalist, design-forward space.
Higher Ground: Iconic café and brunch spot with soaring interiors, specialty coffee, and creative dishes that mix local produce with modern flair.
The Kettle Black: A trendy, photogenic café blending Australian classics with upscale touches, including seasonal, ingredient-driven brunch dishes and curated coffee.
Tonka: Contemporary Indian cuisine in a chic, low-lit setting, focusing on modern interpretations of traditional dishes.
Trips to add on
Image courtesy of Silky Oaks Lodge
Rugged coastlines, tropical islands, and ancient landscapes, these destinations add unforgettable experiences to any Australian itinerary.
Kangaroo Island (45 min flight or 2 hr ferry from Adelaide): A wildlife haven unlike anywhere else in Australia. Dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and native bushland set the stage. Stay at the stylish Great Ocean Lodge for immersive wildlife encounters and boutique comfort.
Winelands (1–2 hr drive from major cities): Australia’s vineyards pair world-class tastings with scenic countryside and artisanal experiences. Visit the Hunter Valley near Sydney, Yarra Valley near Melbourne, and Barossa, Clare, and McLaren Vale near Adelaide.
Tasmania (1–2 hr flight from Melbourne or Sydney): An island of contrasts, with rugged coastlines, alpine peaks, and historic towns. From Hobart’s lively arts and dining scene to Freycinet’s pink granite bays and wilderness trails, it’s ideal for food, nature, and adventure.
Daintree Rainforest (1.5–2 hr flight from Cairns): One of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests. Explore boardwalks, rivers, and unique wildlife before retreating to Silky Oaks Lodge, for immersive treetop villas and riverfront dining.
Uluru (3–4 hr flight from Sydney or Melbourne): A spiritual heart of Australia, Uluru is a striking red monolith sacred to the Anangu people. Stay at Longitude 131 for elevated luxury and unparalleled views of this iconic landscape.
Fiji (3–4 hr flight from Australia’s east coast): A tropical island escape just across the Coral Sea. Luxury resorts and boutique stays line turquoise waters, coral reefs, and palm-fringed beaches, creating a serene contrast to Australia’s mainland adventures.
If not Australia…
Image courtesy of Wharekauhau Luxury Country Estate
For a similar mix of city life, beaches, or wine country, these alternate destinations offer their own distinctive charms.
New Zealand: Dramatic landscapes, fjords, and coastal cities. From Queenstown’s adventure sports to Auckland’s harborside dining, it blends urban energy with breathtaking scenery.
California, USA: Sun-drenched beaches, vineyard-dotted valleys, and coastal highways. Pair Los Angeles with Monterey’s rugged shoreline or Napa Valley.
Thailand: Golden temples, vibrant street life, and island beaches. Bangkok’s energy meets the laid-back rhythm of Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi for a mix of energy and relaxation.
South Africa: A fusion of urban edge and natural beauty. Enjoy Cape Town’s coastal scenery, boutique vineyards in the Winelands, and top wildlife reserves for epic safari experiences.