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<\/figure>\nTraveling around Australia is incomparable due to its diversity. From breathtaking beaches and tropical rainforests to towering mountains and rugged landscapes, there\u2019s no shortage of stunning sights to see. One day you\u2019ll be partying in Sydney, and the next, visiting the expansive Blue Mountains. A road trip in Australia could see you road-tripping from Snowy Mountains to red earth in the Outback to tropical beaches in Queensland, all in the same week! With so many incredible places to explore, it takes time to figure out where to start. Every traveler has personal preferences in the activities and experiences they do. That\u2019s why we\u2019ve put together an Australia trip planner with over 120 must-visit Australian things and destinations to add to your Australia bucket list. We\u2019ve compiled this bucket list for Australia based on different types of experiences and travel preferences, so you can easily select the Australian highlights you prefer.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n We have lived in Australia for over 20 years. During that time, we\u2019ve traveled thousands of miles around the country and to hundreds of destinations.\u00a0<\/p>\n We\u2019ve seen the Aussie icons, the must-dos in the largest cities, lesser-touristed places, and hidden gems. We\u2019ve discovered the best Australian things to see and do and are now sharing them with you.\u00a0<\/p>\n Use this list of Australian highlights to compile your own Australian bucket list and as a\u00a0<\/strong>trip planner for Australia.<\/p>\n Start by making your personalized list of the must-do and see attractions in Australia. Then pick the best time of the year to visit based on the activities you want to do. Follow that with selecting the perfect accommodation to use as a base for your explorations. Finally, work out how to get from A to B to C to Z, and you\u2019re ready to go!<\/p>\n *Travel Bugs World is reader-supported. This blog post contains affiliate links (meaning we may get a small commission if you buy through our links.) You won\u2019t pay any more if you use these links, and it helps support the site. We Thank You.<\/em> <\/p>\n It\u2019s hard to pick a favorite destination in Australia as there is so much diversity and something for everyone. We have the favorites we return to repeatedly and some places that were great to see the one time, such as Ayers Rock and Coober Pedy, that we\u2019d love to revisit one day. Even though some areas are heavily touristed, they become that way for a reason. Therefore, here are the do not miss top 10 Aussie icons and landmarks to add to your \u201cBucket List Australia.\u201d<\/p>\n This world-famous architectural masterpiece is a must-visit destination for all visitors to Australia. Catch a musical, theatrical show, or world-class performance in the stunning concert hall. Or you can explore the colossal icon and admire the unique architecture. Additionally, you can take a guided tour of the Opera House<\/strong><\/a> followed by winding down with a happy hour at the Opera Bar.<\/p>\n Along with the Opera House, this iconic landmark is one of the most recognizable structures in the world. Offering breathtaking city and harbor views, you can even go on a bridge climb tour. Actually, it is one of the must-do items on most travelers\u2019 Australia bucket lists.<\/p>\n Once you\u2019ve seen the bridge and Opera House, why not take to the skies and see Sydney from the air with a helicopter ride over Sydney Harbour? If you prefer to remain on the ground, there are many vantage points to view the harbor from the city. Start with a walk from Circular Quay to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Additionally, you can take a ferry trip on the harbor or one of the many lunchtime or dinner cruises cruising the harbor.\u00a0<\/p>\n The Great Barrier Reef is one of our favorite places in the world. It is one of the best Australian things.\u00a0<\/p>\n The natural wonder of the world is the world\u2019s largest coral reef system and home to abundant marine life and coral formations.<\/p>\n Stretching over 2,300 kilometers in Queensland, many tourists\u2019 highlight of an Australian trip includes visiting the reef on a boat tour with snorkeling or diving.<\/p>\n A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Daintree Rainforest is one of the world\u2019s oldest tropical rainforests. The Far North Queensland national park is home to an extensive range of wildlife and plants. The lush landscapes make this tropical rainforest breathtaking. It\u2019s our favorite national park in Australia and a must for the Australia bucket list!<\/p>\n The Great Ocean Road is one of our Top 10 Australia highlights, mainly due to the extraordinary ocean views. The stunning coastal drive is seriously one of the best in the world. The breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean and the rugged cliffs and rock formations make it a must-do destination. The best parts include the world-famous Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge Rock. <\/p>\n The scenic coastal drive features lovely towns and villages such as Torquay, Anglesea, Lorne, Apollo Bay, Port Fairy, and Warrnambool. Many of these towns offer specialty souvenir and boutique shops and incredible dining options, including cafes, wineries, and degustation dinners at fine restaurants.<\/p>\n The stunning beaches include one of Australia\u2019s best surf beaches, Bells Beach.<\/p>\n The Blue Mountains is a lush mountainous region west of Sydney. You can visit either by self-driving the 1.5 hours from Sydney to Katoomba or by taking a Blue Mountains tour<\/strong><\/a>. The Blue Mountains offer panoramic vistas, bushwalking trails and boardwalks, and plenty of adventure activities such as rock climbing and canyoning. This must-visit destination includes the world-famous Three Sisters rock formation.<\/p>\n On top of that, a fun must-do activity in the Blue Mountains is the short trip through the tunnels down the cliff to the rainforest floor on the Scenic Railway. It claims to be the steepest railway in the world, and we love it! Equally impressive is the Scenic Skyway cable car, offering phenomenal views over the valley from its height of 270 meters above the forest. The glass cabin floor adds a surreal element to the exciting experience.<\/p>\n Australia\u2019s world-renowned beach is on everyone\u2019s Australia bucket list. And with good reason! It\u2019s all about the sun, golden sand, and surf. Whether you want to laze in the sun, go swimming or surfing, or walk around the shops and cafes of Sydney\u2019s Bondi Beach, the vibrant beach culture is unbeatable.\u00a0<\/p>\n Additionally, for some respite from the masses, you can swim laps at the sea pool at the Bondi Icebergs pool. It was recently named by Travel & Leisure as\u00a0the most photographed pool in the world.<\/p>\n The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in the Northern Territory is home to Uluru. Otherwise known as Ayers Rock, it is the largest single rock monolith in the world.\u00a0<\/p>\n The famous Ayers Rock is a must-add to your Australian bucket list. However, this national park offers many unique attractions, such as Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, to learn about indigenous culture. <\/p>\n Additionally, Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) is a surreal natural attraction. The cluster of massive domed rock formations bulge out of the red earth.<\/p>\n Besides that, there are gorges, waterholes, canyons, and the expanse of Red Earth as far as the eye can see. There really is no other place like The Red Centre<\/strong><\/a> anywhere in this world.<\/p>\n For the best experience, base yourself at Ayers Rock Resort. This way, you can wake up early and see the colors of Ayers Rock at sunrise and then a different set of hues at sunset.\u00a0<\/p>\n The Northern Territory\u2019s Kakadu is a world heritage-listed park abundant in diverse landscapes, indigenous cultural sites, and wildlife. The best way to see it is to take a 4WD tour from Darwin. Tours take you to lush rainforests, waterfalls, swimming holes, ancient rock art sites, and the best spots to see wildlife, such as crocodiles. Each tour differs depending on whether you prefer walking tours, scenic flights, or cultural tours where you can learn about indigenous Aboriginal culture.\u00a0<\/p>\n Our highlight was the Yellow Water Billabong cruise and spotting saltwater crocodiles and birdlife. <\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for a tour recommendation for Kakadu National Park, we recommend online travel agency, Get Your Guide. They offer the best range of tours with detailed information to help you decide which is the best tour for you. Check them out for inspiration or\u00a0book a guided tour to Kakadu National Park<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0and start making travel memories.<\/p>\n Sydney is a must-stop for every traveler to Australia. As our home base for over 20 years, we have stomped all over the city and suburbs. The Sydney bucket list includes the most iconic places to see in Sydney that you can easily achieve in a few days\u2019 visit.\u00a0<\/p>\n If you are staying in Sydney longer, make sure you read our\u00a0upcoming article, \u2018Sydney Bucket List,<\/strong>\u2018 where we will list over 70 of our favorite Sydney things to do and see.\u00a0If you want to be notified by email when it is published, as well as receive notification of our other travel & lifestyle articles, subscribe<\/em><\/strong><\/a> today.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve listed Bondi Beach, Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Sydney Harbour in The Top 10 Aussie Icons and Landmarks. You will undoubtedly add these best Australian things to your Australia bucket list. However, one of our favorite things to do in Sydney is a cruise on Sydney Harbour<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0<\/p>\n The best is a lunch or dinner cruise cruising under the Sydney Harbour Bridge and passing the Opera House. Alternatively, the Hop on\/Hop off Harbour cruise is great value and offers many stops. However, you can also catch a government ferry for only a few dollars for a scenic trip to gorgeous Manly Beach. Offering stunning ocean views, high-quality eateries, and lively surf culture, it\u2019s a do not miss for all travelers to Sydney.<\/p>\n Another of our favorites is the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk. The scenic coastal walk offers incredible ocean views and is one of the best things to do in Sydney.<\/p>\n Start or finish with a drink on the waterfront balcony of the iconic Bondi Icebergs Club bar overlooking Bondi Beach.\u00a0Bliss!<\/p>\n The heritage-listed Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is home to Australia\u2019s most diverse selection of plant species and contains some ancient and rare plants. Therefore, it\u2019s a must-visit for nature and history lovers alike. The garden in the heart of Sydney is an excellent spot for a picnic with a view of Sydney Harbour.\u00a0<\/p>\n Taronga Zoo offers a chance to get up close with some of Australia\u2019s distinctive wildlife, such as koalas and kangaroos. Additionally, the zoo, overlooking Sydney Harbour, is home to a huge range of wildlife from all over the world.<\/p>\n Luna Park is an iconic amusement park that most Sydneysiders have grown up with. The family-friendly destination has lots of fun attractions, rides, and games and boasts a stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a short ferry trip across the harbor to get there, and additionally, for history lovers, Luna Park is over 100 years old!<\/p>\n Sydney\u2019s Darling Harbour is a lively waterfront shopping precinct lined with waterfront cafes, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. It is home to the\u00a0SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0and the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo<\/strong><\/a>. Many tourists consider it a must-visit to see koalas and other native Australian wildlife.\u00a0<\/p>\n Additionally, Darling Harbour is home to the world\u2019s largest cinema screen, IMAX, Madame Tussauds, and King Street Wharf, where you can take a cruise around Sydney Harbour.<\/p>\n A short walk from Darling Harbour, the Powerhouse Museum offers fun for the whole family. The cutting-edge museum showcases the latest in science, technology, arts, innovation, and design. Boasting a collection of over 380,000 objects and interactive fun, adults love it just as much as kids.<\/p>\n Offering an extensive collection of Australian and international art, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is a must-visit for the impressive painting, sculptures, and photography and the gorgeous parklands overlooking Sydney Harbour. Take a picnic and enjoy one of Sydney\u2019s\u2019 premier waterfront viewpoints.<\/p>\n Sydney Tower Eye is the tallest structure in Sydney and the second-tallest observation tower in the Southern Hemisphere. This makes it a must for your Australian bucket list. <\/p>\n For a view of the city and beyond, the scenic observation deck offers 360-degree views.<\/p>\n Additionally, for an added experience, they have a revolving restaurant with a self-serve buffet of international dishes.<\/p>\n Another attraction offering incredible views is the Sydney Observatory. The historical and educational facility is your chance to see the wonder of the night sky, including stars and planets, through powerful equipment, which includes the oldest working telescope in Australia.\u00a0<\/p>\n Having spent many years in Sydney working full-time, our goal was to get away every long weekend and any other opportunity we got. Therefore, we have discovered the best places to visit that are within a few hours\u2019 drive from Sydney. Here are our favorites to add to your Australia bucket list destinations.<\/p>\n The stunning national park, close to the city\u2019s hustle and bustle, is known for its diverse landscapes and scenic walks. The Royal National Park (Established in 1879) is Australia\u2019s first national park and the second in the world! The park offers scenic coastline walks and bush trails and is home to tidal pools, surf beaches, calm bays, and wildlife. However, our highlight is the stunning scenic bush drive, allowing us to view Australia\u2019s native flora.<\/p>\n The coastal city of Wollongong is known for its stunning beaches, but the best part of a trip to Wollongong is the spectacular Grand Pacific Drive.\u00a0<\/p>\n If time allows for a South Coast NSW road trip, the 140-kilometer scenic coastal drive sees you road-tripping through the lush rainforests of the Royal National Park, the epic views over the Sea Cliff Bridge, and the chic beach suburbs of Wollongong. If you travel further south, you pass the coastal towns of Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, and the Shoalhaven region.<\/p>\n Kiama deserves its own place on the Australian bucket list. The quaint seaside town on NSW\u2019s South Coast is best known for its blowholes. However, the town offers stunning beaches and national parks, lovely coastal walks, and an easy-going holiday destination.<\/p>\n The charming Southern Highlands region is a must-do stopover for wine enthusiasts. With over 60 wineries, the Southern Highlands is a retreat away from Sydney with scenic bush views, spectacular lookouts, and stunning waterfalls. Additionally, the Southern Highlands\u2019 quaint historic villages, some dating back to 1831, offer historic architecture, antique stores, boutiques, craft shops, excellent pubs and cafes, and breweries.<\/p>\n You will likely need more than a weekend to enjoy the plethora of activities, such as dolphin-watching cruises<\/strong><\/a> or swimming with dolphins, quad-biking on sand dunes, kayaking, snorkeling, and coastal walks. The gorgeous sandy beaches, bays, and inlets in Port Stephens make Port Stephens our favorite seaside destination within 3 hours of Sydney. The sparkling blue waters and beachfront accommodations make it a perfect weekend retreat from Sydney.\u00a0<\/p>\n Jenolan Caves, the largest caves in Australia, is a part of the Blue Mountains. However, the extra 1.5-hour drive through windy roads often sees day trippers from Sydney missing out on one of the most unique destinations in Australia and one of the best Australian things to see.\u00a0<\/p>\n We love the world\u2019s oldest caves so much that we repeatedly visit them. Each trip, we do a different guided cave tour through one of the 11 caves and their labyrinths of stalactite-lined chasms and beautiful limestone formations.\u00a0<\/p>\n To make the most of the awe-inspiring natural wonders in the area, stay for a weekend in Caves House. The 126-year-old grand historic hotel is a must for the Australia bucket list for history lovers.<\/p>\n Central Coast, just an hour north of Sydney, spans over 50 miles and has beautiful expansive beaches, pretty bays, surf spots, and sea view resorts. The region offers a perfect weekend getaway for many Sydneysiders.<\/p>\n Highlights include fishing tours, gardens, national parks, the Australian Reptile Park, and the TreeTop Adventure Park.\u00a0<\/p>\n However, we love the Central Coast for its coastal walking tracks, and we love beach hopping!<\/p>\n The Shoalhaven is a close second to Port Stephens, our favorite seaside destination within 3 hours of Sydney. <\/p>\n The Shoalhaven is abundant in pristine beaches and national parks, and it\u2019s the ideal place for swimming, surfing, fishing, and bushwalking.<\/p>\n Our favorite park in the region is <\/strong>Booderee National Park. With its diverse landscape and crystal clear water, the park has three camping options and a chance to spot lots of wildlife in its natural habitat. During our camping experiences by the sea, we have seen koalas and kangaroos in the wild and whales and dolphins from the shoreline!<\/p>\n Additionally, you can see dolphins on one of the dolphin-watching tours available from Huskisson. The Jervis Bay Marine Park is known for its spectacular calm waters and diverse marine life.<\/p>\n More than what you could squeeze into a weekend getaway, Shoalhaven offers quaint towns, stunning beaches, wineries, beachside walking trails, spas, resorts, restaurants, and much more. Plus, if you want to get away from the tourist crowds, add Shoalhaven to your Australia bucket list.<\/p>\n City lovers will no doubt visit Melbourne and Sydney. We\u2019ve included comprehensive information about Melbourne and Sydney on this list as it\u2019s a favorite of many travelers. City lovers should not miss these cities.\u00a0<\/p>\n However, Australia has many cities and small towns to visit. The ones we consider do not miss Australian cities are the larger ones with extensive diversity. Keep reading for more information on some of our favorite cities in Australia to add to your Australia bucket list.<\/p>\n This tropical city in Far North Queensland is our favorite. The gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest is a lively city offering many restaurants with diverse cuisines from all over the world, bars, shopping, and a boardwalk lining the shore to watch the sunset.<\/p>\n The greater Cairns area boasts stunning beaches, islands, freshwater swimming holes, waterfalls, and lush forests. <\/p>\n Read about the top things to do in Cairns<\/a> next!<\/strong><\/p>\n In the Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, is the capital city of Australia and is plentiful in historical, cultural, and natural experiences and many diverse Australian things and experiences.<\/p>\n Canberra is a must-visit destination for lovers of the arts, with Australia\u2019s largest art gallery based there.<\/p>\n However, the most prominent landmark in Canberra, and the most visited, is the Australian War Memorial.\u00a0<\/p>\n Additionally, for history and culture lovers, you can make a day or two of it by visiting the National Military Museum, the Parliament House, and The National Museum of Australia.\u00a0<\/p>\n Our favorites are the Royal Australian Mint, where you can see how coins are made, and the Questacon Science Museum offering interactive fun and games.<\/p>\n Adelaide is a city rich in history and impressive architecture. Must-visit places to visit during a weekend in Adelaide include historic churches such as St. Peter\u2019s Cathedral and St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, and the historic North Terrace.\u00a0<\/p>\n You can fill your days by visiting art galleries, museums, botanical gardens, bars, and restaurant hopping, or travel to one of the many gorgeous beaches, such as Glenelg Beach. Then there is the Adelaide Central Market. This market is a must-do on your Adelaide bucket list with its fresh local produce and tasty meals.<\/p>\n If you have time left over, do the Night Roof Climb at Adelaide Oval<\/a><\/strong>, it\u2019s one of Australia\u2019s most iconic sports stadiums.\u00a0<\/p>\n Check out Travel Guide Australia for more information on the best things to do in Adelaide<\/a>.<\/p>\n This coastal city in North Queensland is known for its stunning beaches, impressive natural landscapes, and rich agricultural history. While offering the things city lovers love most, such as cafes, restaurants, resorts, galleries, shopping, and nightlife,\u00a0Mackay<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0is on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef and many untouched national parks. <\/p>\n For people who also love the Great Outdoors and water activities and fewer tourist crowds, Mackay is a must-add to your Australia bucket list.<\/p>\n Besides your tour of Kakadu, Ayers Rock, and the Red Centre, your trip planner for Australia should include a visit to the capital city of Darwin. The tropical climate lends itself to outdoor activities, including one of Australia\u2019s biggest outdoor markets, the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets.<\/p>\n Also, a highlight, and a must for your Darwin bucket list, is Crocosaurus Cove. Boasting the world\u2019s largest array of Australian reptiles and a 200,000-liter aquarium, Crocosaurus Cove is your chance to swim with crocs, hold baby saltwater crocodiles, and see thousands of fish and over 70 reptiles.<\/p>\n Besides that, there are art galleries showcasing local and indigenous art, waterside attractions such as restaurants by the sea, sunset cruises, or shopping at Darwin\u2019s Smith Street Mall.<\/p>\n Additionally, please keep reading to find information in this article about the Australian bucket list destinations, the Gold Coast, Broken Hill, Hervey Bay, Bendigo, and Port Macquarie, cities that city lovers will absolutely adore.\u00a0<\/p>\n Australia is just one big road trip. However, you can fly to one of the many city or regional airports for those with limited time or who prefer less time in the car. Our favorite way to travel is by road in our own vehicle, and we\u2019ve done thousands of miles across Australia. Every journey is one of discovery, but our best Australia road trips are the coastal road trips from Sydney to Brisbane and Brisbane to Cairns.<\/p>\n We are road trip lovers, and that\u2019s how we\u2019ve seen a large part of Australia. However, we have our favorites, and the Sydney to Brisbane road trip is one of them.\u00a0<\/p>\n The New South Wales coastal drive offers spectacular ocean and bush views. There are many cool seaside towns to visit along the way, such as Newcastle, Forster, and Port Macquarie.<\/p>\n For us, the best part is going from Coffs Harbour to the Gold Coast. New South Wales\u2019s most scenic drive sees you passing quaint towns such as Yamba, Grafton, and Byron Bay. The area is rich in both agriculture and native flora and fauna.<\/p>\n For information on our favorite road trip from Sydney to Cairns, please read about our top 5 road trips in Australia \u2013 Road Trip Australia \u2013 Don\u2019t Miss Our Top 5 Road Trips<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n You will stop at many cool towns on your scenic Sydney to Brisbane drive; however, make sure to visit our favorite town in New South Wales. If not on a road trip, you can fly there from Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane.<\/p>\n The picturesque coastal resort town of Coffs Harbour has stunning beaches, lush resorts, and diverse wildlife experiences.\u00a0<\/p>\n You can take a whale watching or fishing cruise, visit a national park, swim in one of the many beaches or rivers, or take in the vibes at the town\u2019s marina. Many cafes and restaurants have sea views, and the weekly outdoor arts, crafts, and produce market is a do not miss event.<\/p>\n Northern Territory is a perfect destination for road trip lovers. There are many miles between the favorite (iconic) destinations of Darwin, Kakadu, and The Red Centre. (Read more about them in this article\u2019s City Lovers and The Top 10 Aussie Icons and Landmarks sections.)\u00a0<\/p>\n Get ready for one hell of a road trip where you will see some phenomenal Australian things; we\u2019ve been to over 50 countries around the world and have yet to see a place quite like it. The Northern Territory will blow your mind<\/a>.<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n Litchfield National Park is just one and a half hours from Darwin, making it a perfect half-day trip. Featuring waterfalls and freshwater swimming holes surrounded by Australian native bush, there\u2019s an excellent chance to see Australian wildlife. <\/p>\n Litchfield National Park offers many scenic trails and picnic spots to warrant spending the day. Alternatively, you could camp in the wild and enjoy a few days relaxing in nature.<\/p>\n Katherine Gorge is one of the coolest national parks we\u2019ve been to. The stunning gorge, otherwise known as Nitmiluk Gorge, is located in the Northern Territory and is known for its serene boat cruises passing towering cliffs. Nitmiluk Gorge is one of our absolute favorite Australian highlights. The area is home to diverse wildlife, and there is an excellent opportunity to see freshwater crocodiles sunning themselves on the river banks. However, they are not interested in eating people so you can enjoy the swimming holes in the area!<\/p>\n We\u2019d push you to stay a few days as there are many fascinating activities, such as bush walks with epic panoramas where you can see indigenous rock art, canoeing, aboriginal culture, and camping in the gorge.<\/p>\n Karlu Karlu \/ Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve is a surreal place. We consider it one of the unique destinations in Australia and the coolest Australian things to see and, therefore, a must for your Australia bucket list. It\u2019s far from civilization, so it isn\u2019t easy to visit unless you\u2019re on the long road trip from Darwin to Alice Springs.\u00a0<\/p>\n A road trip will see you driving through nothing but the stark Australian desert, and then you will come upon this incredible geological wonder!<\/p>\n The gigantic round boulders are spectacular and change color according to the time of day and morning or evening sun. <\/p>\n There is a campground so you can stay overnight to make the most of your visit and take short walks and look out for wildlife in their natural habitat.\u00a0<\/p>\n We\u2019d go out of our way for hot springs, but luckily Mataranka is only 1-hour drive south of Katherine. The thermal pools in Elsey National Park feel like a tropical paradise surrounded by palm trees and woods.<\/p>\n Mataranka Hot Springs is one of the best hot springs we have been to. It is a must for your Australian bucket list. There are two thermal areas. The Bitter Springs Thermal Pools is a crystal clear natural spring, or there is the concrete landscaped Mataranka Thermal Pool.<\/p>\n For campers, you can stay at the nearby Jalmurark Campground or Bitter Springs Cabins and Camping. They are a great base to visit Mataranka Falls and for scenic bush and riverside walks in the national park.<\/p>\n The Outback refers to central Australia\u2019s vast, sparsely populated, undeveloped land. Much of the Northern Territory is considered the Outback; however, all states in Australia have an area considered the Outback.\u00a0<\/p>\n The Outback is uniquely Australian, and visiting Australia would not be complete without seeing it. So here are some of the Outback bucket list destinations we love. We strongly advise you to add these unique Australian highlights to your Australia bucket list.<\/p>\n The historical city in the Northern Territory is known for its rich indigenous cultural heritage and diverse cultural experiences. Additionally, it is the gateway to many Outback adventures. <\/p>\n With a population of around 25,000, Alice Springs has more of a small-town feel. It is about 800 miles from any of Australia\u2019s big cities, so it really is the Outback!<\/p>\n This immense flat desert landscape spans over 200,000 square across South Australia and Western Australia.\u00a0<\/p>\n A trip across the Nullarbor Plain passes remote tiny towns, views of the Great Australian Bight, stunning cliffs and bays offering a chance to see whales off the coast, and a long flat endless road with lots of space!<\/p>\n Additionally, the Nullabor offers quirky attractions such as a golf course spread across two states, windmills, ruins of the Old Telegraph Station, and roadhouses.<\/p>\n This road trip is best traveled by car, not for the faint-hearted road-tripper!<\/p>\n Another Northern Territory, do not miss the experience, is 3 hours south of Alice Springs. Kings Canyon offers scenic walks and distinctive vegetation. The spectacular canyons and rock formations are surreal, and the colourful scenery makes for many Instagram-worthy photos.<\/p>\n When it comes to surreal, Coober Pedy wins that award. The unique town is famous for its opal mines and its underground dwellings. Additionally, the unique desert landscape makes you feel like you are on Mars.<\/p>\n Out of all the unique Australian things to do, visiting the opal mining town is one of the highlights of Australia. Further, our trip from Adelaide to Coober Pedy<\/a> has been one of our favourite Australian road trips.<\/p>\n Another opal mining town, Lightning Ridge, has a rich mining history as well as a lively town full of colorful locals. The highlight of a visit to the NSW Outback town is the four self-drive tours to explore the sights of Lightning Ridge. You can see old mines, shafts, lookouts, castles, and many unusual installations.<\/p>\n Five hours from Adelaide is Australia\u2019s oldest mining town. Today the town takes pride in its museums, galleries, street art, and history and still has active mines.\u00a0<\/p>\n This town is a must-visit for history lovers. It\u2019s a mining boom town with an outstanding exhibition of historic buildings.<\/p>\n Queensland is our favorite Australian state. The epic coastline spans over 4000 miles. If you are road-tripping, it is the best way to ensure you see the many fantastic coastal towns in Queensland. Besides the must-do destinations of Cairns and the Daintree, the Great Barrie Reef, and the fabulous city of Mackay, here are our must-visit destinations to add to your Queensland bucket list.<\/p>\n The lush tropical and mountainous region near Cairns is a must-do! Offering towering waterfalls, scenic lakes, hiking trails, wildlife experiences, and historic villages, the highlight for us is the spectacular Skyrail Rainforest Cableway above the forest to the quaint mountain village Kuranda. The return trip to Cairns via the\u00a0Kuranda Scenic Railway<\/strong><\/a> travels through historic tunnels and bridges and down the mountain through the rainforest. It\u2019s a trip you will remember for a lifetime!<\/p>\n The Gold Coast is a favorite for many Australians. The coastal area of 81 suburbs is known for its stunning beaches, diverse landscapes, sunny weather, surf beaches, shopping, restaurants, nightclubs, and exciting theme parks. There really is something for everyone of all ages.<\/p>\n Our favorite things to do on the Gold Coast are beach hopping and visiting the many surf clubs. Unlike any other place in the world, the Gold Coast surf club experience offers beachfront dining at affordable prices. If sea views and seafood dinners are your things, we consider\u00a0Gold Coast Surf Clubs<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0at the top of the Queensland bucket list! Get ready to be busy dining out; there are over 20 of them!<\/p>\n Besides the beach culture, the Gold Coast hinterland offers the opportunity to see the lush native bush of Australia. Some of the best bushwalks on the Gold Coast are at the world heritage-listed Springbrook National Park and Lamington National Park. The parks are plentiful in lush rainforests, picturesque waterfalls, ancient trees, and unforgettable views.<\/p>\n Just a short drive from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, the mountainous region in the hinterland offers a break from the cities with its scenic walks through the lush bush.<\/p>\n A highlight is the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk offering a unique experience of walking among the treetops.<\/p>\n The area offers many wineries, distilleries, restaurants, and cafes. Settings are often in vineyards, in the rainforest, in nurseries, or with scenic views.\u00a0<\/p>\n Additionally, Tamborine Mountain has its very own coffee plantation and weekly local produce markets, allowing you to experience food and wine direct from the farm to the table.<\/p>\n Another coastal region located in Queensland, the Sunshine Coast offers a resort experience among stunning beaches and the lush Australian bush. We absolutely adore Noosa. Our favorites are Noosa National Park\u2019s scenic walks and charming Noosa Heads with its stunning beaches, vibrant food, and colorful shopping scene.<\/p>\n Additionally, the region boasts rainforests in the hinterland, such as Glass House Mountains, ideal for hiking and rock climbing its rugged volcanic peaks.<\/p>\n Plus, the Sunshine Coast is home to one of the most iconic Australian things, the world-famous Australia Zoo, where you can see Australian native wildlife, including crocodiles.\u00a0<\/p>\n The equally famous Aussie icon, the Big Pineapple, offers an opportunity to take a trip on a heritage-listed train through lush rainforests and gardens.\u00a0<\/p>\n Please note (at the time of writing) the train is undergoing major repairs. The Big Pineapple is still worth visiting just for the iconic photos and the fresh produce.<\/em><\/p>\n You can visit this vast national park on the mainland or Fraser Island. Great Sandy National Park stretches from Rainbow Beach to Noosa and most of Fraser Island.\u00a0<\/p>\n The park is known for its diverse landscapes, pristine beaches, wildlife, walking tracks through Australian native bush, and camping. Boasting massive dunes and a surreal landscape, we consider it one of the most interesting national parks we\u2019ve visited.<\/p>\n We love Fraser Island, but an equally interesting adventure is the Noosa Everglades. You can kayak in the pristine waterways or just enjoy the nature trails. The area offers numerous camping options to enjoy the wilderness experience overnight.<\/p>\n Tours to Fraser Island often start from Hervey Bay.<\/p>\n This coastal city located two hours north of Noosa is where to\u00a0go to see humpback whales. Additionally, Hervey Bay is known for its golden beaches, rich history, and diverse cultural experiences.<\/p>\n Too many choices? We are lovers of island life. Though Australia has amazing islands with opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and more, the island life we love is all about the warm water and hot weather. Therefore, all the islands listed are in Queensland. They are a must-add to your Queensland bucket list.<\/p>\n Fraser Island is the world\u2019s largest sand island and offers a rare opportunity to either self-drive or tour the island on a 4WD beach road trip. Whether you stay in the resort or enjoy a beach camping adventure, the island\u2019s beaches, lakes, sand dunes, and rainforests offer you a unique experience that is hard to find anywhere else in the world.\u00a0<\/p>\n There\u2019s also a great chance to see wildlife and dingos in the wild. It\u2019s been a few years since we went there, but we saw many dingos, birds, and baby turtles.<\/p>\n Moreton Island is also a sand island. While we love the wildness of Fraser Island, Moreton Island boasts remarkable attractions and activities such as wild dolphin feeding, kayaking, parasailing, sand boarding, and helicopter flights.<\/p>\n Plus, a Moreton Island highlight, wreck diving, or snorkeling, the Tangalooma Shipwrecks offers the chance to see a huge variety of reef fish and coral formations.<\/p>\nTraveling Around Australia<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Best Australian Things for Your Australia Bucket List<\/strong><\/h2>\n
The Top 10 Aussie Icons and Landmarks<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Divers](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.travelbugsworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Diving-Great-Barrier-Reef-Queensland-Australia.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1\")
Sydney Opera House<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sydney Harbour Bridge\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sydney Harbour\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Great Barrier Reef<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Daintree Rainforest\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Great Ocean Road, Victoria<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Blue Mountains<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Bondi Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Uluru and The Red Centre<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Kakadu National Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The Sydney Bucket List<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Bondi](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.travelbugsworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Bondi-Beach-View.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1\")
Sydney Harbour Cruise<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Taronga Zoo<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Luna Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Darling Harbour\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Powerhouse Museum<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Art Gallery of New South Wales<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sydney Tower Eye<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sydney Observatory<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sydney Day Trips and Weekend Getaways<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Sunset](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.travelbugsworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Jervis-Bay-NSW-Australia.jpg?resize=1024%2C767&ssl=1\")
Royal National Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Grand Pacific Drive to Wollongong and Beyond<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Kiama<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Southern Highlands<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Port Stephens\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Jenolan Caves\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Central Coast\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Shoalhaven<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Australia Trip Planner For City Lovers<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"View](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.travelbugsworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Cairns-Queensland-Australia.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1\")
Cairns<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Canberra<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Adelaide<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Mackay\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Darwin<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Best Australia Road Trips For Road Trip Lovers<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Palm](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.travelbugsworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Coffs-Harbour-Australia.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1\")
Sydney to Brisbane Road Trip<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Coffs Harbour, New South Wales<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Northern Territory Bucket List<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"View](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.travelbugsworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Nitmiluk-NP-Katherine-Gorge-NT-Australia.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1\")
Litchfield National Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Katherine Gorge<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Karlu Karlu \/ Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Mataranka Hot Springs<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The Outback Bucket List<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Maruku](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.travelbugsworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Maruku-Arts-Uluru-Kata-Tjuta-Australia.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1\")
Alice Springs<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The Nullarbor Plain<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Kings Canyon\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Coober Pedy, South Australia<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Lightning Ridge<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Broken Hill<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Queensland Bucket List<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.travelbugsworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/The-Big-Pineapple-Sunshine-Coast-Queensland.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1\")
Atherton Tablelands<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Gold Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Tamborine Mountain<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sunshine Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Great Sandy National Park, Queensland\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Hervey Bay, Queensland<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Discover our SIX favorite places to visit in Australia, why we love them, and why you need to visit them!
Read Next \u2013 Best Places to Visit in Australia<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\nAustralia Highlights For Lovers of Island Life<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Fitzroy](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.travelbugsworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Fitzroy-Island-Queensland-Australia.jpg?resize=1022%2C766&ssl=1\")
Fraser Island<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Moreton Island\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The Whitsunday Islands\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.travelbugsworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Far-North-Queensland-beach-Australia.jpg?resize=1024%2C767&ssl=1\")
![\"People](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.travelbugsworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Australia-Eumundi-Markets-Queensland.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1\")