Top Australia Tours & Vacations 2024/2025 [reviews & photos]

Australia Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

548 Australia trips. Compare tour itineraries from 140 tour companies. 433 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

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Top Australia Attractions & Experiences

Top Australia Experiences

  • Viewing Uluru (Ayers Rock), Australia’s best known landmark and sacred to the aboriginal people, as the sandstone formation deep in the Outback glows red at dawn or sunset.
  • Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef and marveling at the thousands of fish and coral species, and the beautiful colors.
  • Visiting the boutique Australian wine region and tasting local varietals
  • Going to Tasmania 
  • Hiking through Tasmania’s diverse terrain
  • Touring Sydney’s Opera House and its multi-bay harbor, both considered among the most beautiful representatives of their kind in the world.
  • Exploring the city of Melbourne
  • Taking a crocodile-viewing safari down a river in the Daintree Rainforest in Far North Queensland, Australia

Australia Tours & Travel Guide

Australia Attractions & Landmarks Guide

Coronavirus Update

Australia has imposed strict travel restrictions in effort to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Travel to Australia is limited to Australian citizens or New Zealand citizens who live in Australia or are traveling back home to New Zealand.

Travelers arriving in Australia are required to stay in quarantine for 14 days.  

See all resources on Coronavirus and travel


Australia – simultaneously the earth’s smallest continent and largest island, is many a travelers’ dream destination. From Sydney's famous Opera House to the vast and rugged Outback, this country-continent is incredibly geographically diverse. Filled with friendly people, and stocked with unusual animals ranging from kangaroos and koalas to wombats and Tasmanian devils. 

Australia travel video

Australia holds a special place in the imaginations of those who live on the other side of the world. Home to both British descendants living a seemingly incongruous, often sun-burned existence in the faraway Pacific, along with intriguing indigenous cultures and immigrants from Asia and Oceania, Australia has a reputation as a modern society with frontier-like rough edges. In Australia, the vast, mostly deserted Outback begins just on the fringes of the thickly populated eastern coast and stretches west seemingly forever.

Australia is amazingly diverse -- from its well-populated east and southeastern coasts, with world-class cities like Sydney and Melbourne beckoning, to its arid outback (which constitutes much of the country), from its northeastern rainforests to its southeastern mountains, from its trendy vineyards to its frontier-style cattle ranches, from its icons (urban and rural) like the Sydney Opera House and Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock), to its often-overlooked far-western and far northern cities like Perth and Darwin. 

And of course there's the wildlife -- bounding kangaroos, shy koalas, wombats, and the impossible-to-make-up duck-billed platypus, which scientists once thought must be a hoax -- as well as its colorful history as a repository for English criminals, from whom many modern-day Australians are descended. Native aborigines, much in evidence in some parts of the country, add further to the Australians’ reputation as a yet-untamed, fiercely independent people.

Australian States and Territories 

Australia has six different states along with a few territories. Each was originally one of the original Australian colonies and have their own look and feel to them. 

1. New South WalesNew South Wales is the most populated state and includes the major city of Sydney. Visiting the Blue Mountains is another popular activity to do in New South Wales. 

2. VictoriaThe second smallest state where football, coffee, and graffiti thrive. The laidback city of Melbourne calls this state home and is where you can really feel the cultural convergence that has happened in Australia. 

3. QueenslandQueensland is the golden area of Australia where you can find the Gold Coast, sunny Brisbane, subtropical forests, and the Great Barrier Reef. 

4. Western AustraliaThe largest of the states, Western Australia’s main city is Perth. This area of Australia is known for the drastic changes in the landscape and quieter beaches and cities. 

5. South AustraliaCalled the “Festival State,” South Australia is the center for the wine industry of Australia and is where a large portion of the members of the Aberogini tribe live. 

6. TasmaniaTasmania is Australia’s smallest state and is dominated by numerous natural parks and is extremely mountainous. 

7. TerritoriesThe three main internal territories (on the mainland) are the Northern Territory, Jervis Bay Territory, and the Australian Capital Territory. The Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory are the most visited. The Northern Territory is where you can find the most famous landmark of Australia, Uluru, and more stunning features. The Australian Capital Territory includes the national capital of Canberra and other national museums and institutions.

From Desert to Rainforest

Australia’s landscape covers every end of the spectrum. There are hot rainforests in the northeast, arid hills in the south, coastal waters, and the epic Outback right in the middle of it all. As you enter each state of Australia you will find yourself in a completely different ecological system. 

While this may be havoc on what to exactly pack, it offers a chance for travelers to see the different adventure activities Australia has to offer. You can hike in the Great Dividing Range in the west or go snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef off the coast. Each region offers the chance to learn how the environment shaped the local people and the development of Australia.

Read more about one of Australia's forests, Daintree Forest and the most beautiful forests in the world >>

 

Adventure Travel in Australia

There are many different Australia’s that are available to travelers, but one of the most popular is attractive to adventure seekers. Within the adventure travel realm in Australia, there are plenty of hard adventure activities available, but also many family friendly and “soft” adventure opportunities.

Some of the top adventure travel experiences in Australia include:

1. Surfing - Australians love the ocean, and many tours of the country feature a beach day or two. Some tour companies offer surf lessons as an excursion or additional activity. It’s a great way to feel like a local out in the sun and surf.

2. Snorkeling - One of the most popular activities in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, snorkeling is a calm and easy activity, great for family outings. It’s best to plan a full day so you can get far enough out to explore deeper waters as well as the shallower areas.

3. Climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge - When you visit Sydney, the harbor is the top destination. Boat tours of the harbor leave from here, the Opera House is a prominent fixture, and Circular Queue is a fantastic area for shopping and eating.

For those looking for something a bit more adrenaline pumping, consider the Sydney Bridge walk. Snapped into a jumpsuit and harness you’ll climb to the very top of the bridge, for stunning views of the entire harbor, and a brag worthy photo op. While the activity is very safe, it is not recommended if you’re afraid of heights!

4. Overland Tour through the Outback - Overland travel is definitely not for everyone. But if you are enthusiastic about roughing it, camping, pitching in, and generally enjoying the outdoors for an extended period of time, then it’s the perfect fit! Australia is one of the most popular destinations for Overland Tours, in part due to the climate and the flat landscape. Prepare for a challenging trip but one through which you’ll forge strong community ties with your tour mates.

Top Activities in Australia

With six vastly different states, Australia will ignite every traveler’s wanderlust. Just make sure you don’t get too worn out trying to cram everything in! 

1. Swim the Great Barrier Reef The Great Barrier Reef has been one of the main symbols of the country for decades. The reef is a biodiversity haven for coral and sea life. You’ll be able to swim closely with sea turtles and angelfish that call this place home and capture some amazing photos at the same time.

2. Drive the Great Ocean RoadThe Great Ocean Road begins in Melbourne and takes you through Otway National Park and the famous natural formation of the 12 Apostles across the southeastern point of Australia. 

3. Cruise the KimberlyThere are overland tours offered of the Kimberly, but another great way to see this untouched area is by a cruise. Cruises of the Kimberly take you through the teal waters where you can see sandy cliff faces and waterfalls from your small cruise ship. 

4. Go SkiingYes, Australia isn’t just for surfers and volleyball players. Australia has quite a few mountains with the most famous being the Great Dividing Range where you can hike, ski, or snowboard until your heart’s content. 

Wine Tasting in Australia

When most people think of wine they envision the Tuscan hills of Italy, the Medoc region of France, or the rolling wineries of Napa Valley. However, there is another region of the world that produces top-notch wine as well. Australia’s wine region is located in and around the major cities of Adelaide, Sydney, and Melbourne. 

You can visit these regions by either day trips from the major cities or head out on a tour of all of them and stay in hotels right in the center of the vineyards. All types of wine are produced in Australia with some of the most popular being Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. 

The amazing part of wine tasting in Australia is that the vineyards not only offer the chance to taste good wine and food but also get you out into the vast landscape of the country. You may also encounter wildlife on your wine tours with kangaroos often making a visit among the vines as well.

Wildlife in Australia

It may seem like the butt of every joke when it comes to the land down under: that everything can kill you. It’s true, the wildlife in Australia is extreme. Home to hundreds of venomous species of snakes, spiders, ants, and other creepy crawlies, plus crocodiles and even Kangaroos can do damage - it’s important to respect nature to the highest degree when you’re in Australia.

That said, the wildlife is one of the top reasons to visit this expansive country - so don’t hang up your explorer hat just yet. Plan accordingly with proper attire and go with a reputable tour company to ensure your safety, as well as that of the native flora and fauna you encounter.

Some of the wildlife you shouldn’t miss in Australia includes:

1. Kangaroo - The national symbol of Australia, the kangaroo is a fascinating animal, with the ability to withstand incredible heat. Kangaroos are extremely powerful as well - their enormous tail and hind legs help them jump distances of over 25 feet in a single bound. It’s highly unlikely that you will see a kangaroo in the wild, but they are a regular fixture in zoos and protected areas.

2. Koala Bears - Another popular symbol of Australia, koalas are not actually a type of bear. Rather they are a species of marsupial. Known to hang out high in eucalyptus trees, Koalas are somewhat difficult to spot in the wild, but not impossible - especially if you take a nature walk with an experienced guide!

3. Tasmanian Devil - Popularized by a particular cartoon, this Australian native is very common in zoos and other wildlife experiences throughout Australia. Hailing from the island of Tasmania, they are a carnivorous mammal - known to be mean! They were once the subject of an eradication attempt in the 1800s. Since then conservationists have been trying to keep their population size above extinction levels.

4. Wombat - Australia has over 140 species of marsupial, including the adorable wombat. These roly poly, fluffy animals are a delight to spot. 

Australia's Cities

Australia’s main cities are primarily on the southeastern coast of the country. This area of Australia is known for amazing weather and where the country first developed as a shipping and penal colony. 

1. Sydney: The largest Australian city, Sydney is a hub for finance, tourism, and the arts. Most tours begin and end in Sydney as it’s the main port for the country and where a great deal of the country’s prominent happenings take place. 

2. Melbourne: The funky, hip, and laidback city of Melbourne stays true to Australia’s well-known calm and relaxed vibe. The city is the cultural capital of the country and is considered one of the coffee capital of the world and voted one of the best places to live! 

3. Brisbane: The city at the heart of the famous Gold Coast, Brisbane is the jumping-off point for the sun and beach culture of Australia. The weather in Brisbane is perfect all year round and where surfers, sunbathers, and beach volleyball players thrive. 

4. Perth: Considered the most isolated major city in Australia, Perth is located on the southwestern side of the country. While Perth may be isolated from the rest of the country, you won’t be bored with the Outback and the Indian Ocean being right outside your front step. 

Australia's capital, Canberra, and far north city of Darwin make for other possible destinations. Consider taking a train across the width of southern Australia for an unforgettable ride through the Outback.

Uluru

Uluru (Ayers Rock), about 200 miles from Alice Springs, is Australia’s best known natural landmark. Since it’s sacred to the aboriginal people, climbing it is now discouraged, but it’s still worth the trip to see. And, of course, Australia’s unusual wildlife is a huge draw: especially being surprised by the ever-present kangaroos and trying to spot the cute but reclusive koalas, who like to hide in eucalyptus trees.

While Australia has a mostly friendly rivalry with neighboring New Zealand (each believing themselves to be the friendlier of the two), they have much in common. Together they feature a number of world-class cities and some of the world’s best hiking trails, as well as deserts, rainforests, coastlines and mountains, so if you choose to see both in one tour, allow plenty of time. 

Ready to head Down Under but don’t know where to turn first? Try Stride’s handy comparison tools that will quickly help you find which tour or tours are right for you. 

Nearby Countries 

The Land Down Under sits between the Indian and the Pacific Ocean. Often when visiting Australia, visitors take the time to check out nearby countries or include them in their tours. 

1. New Zealand -One of the closest countries to Australia and a common tour combo, New Zealand is an island nation just east of Australia that is known for its remarkable landscape, hiking, and role as the setting for The Lord of the Rings movies. 

2. Papua New Guinea - Just north of Australia is Papua New Guinea. This country occupies half of an island and is commonly visited for its volcanic and pacific atmosphere. The island nation boasts many natural wonders and an opportunity to witness and learn about local Pacific Island cultures.

3. Indonesia Only a short flight from Australia, Indonesia is an island nation that has been at the center of the backpacker and luxury travel world for years. The main area of Indonesia, Bali, draws in digital nomads, yogis, and anyone looking to relax and unwind on the beach.

Souvenirs from Australia

Buying souvenirs from a destination allows us take a piece of our vacation home with us. While Australia may appear similar to the U.S. or England, this vast country has its own unique features you may want to take home with you. 

1. Opals - Australia is known for having some of the best opals in the world. They are of high quality and make for a great gift. 

2. Tim TamsA true Australian treat, tim tams are chocolate covered biscuits that are often paired with Australia’s favorite beverage, coffee. 

3. Vegemite - One of Australia’s more interesting food choices, Vegemite is a thick black spread used for toast. Vegemite is an acquired taste and can be very tart and tangy to those who have never tasted it before.

4. Boomerangs - We all have seen the movies of Aussies throwing boomerangs, but they are one of the most famous icons of the country and a pretty neat object to take home with you.

5. UGG BootsThe most famous souvenir are sheepskin UGG boots worn around the country. They are primarily used for indoor in Australia as slippers and not for outdoors, but wear switched when they gained popularity in other parts of the world.

Australia Reviews & Ratings

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Kelly

Apr 2019

Written on

Had the best time

Absolutely loved my intrepid trip from Sydney to Brisbane. The tour leader was amazing and everyone had the best time. Byron bay was great as was Dorrigo National pa...

J

James

Jan 2019

Written on

Give a good idea of what to expect.

I think my comments and the itinerary provided will already give a good idea of what to expect. just be warned that not all food is included and that the food throug...

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James

Jan 2019

Written on

Will already give a good idea of what to expect

Its a fast paced east coast trip from Sydney to Brisbane. It covers a lot of ground and visits a lot of places. Its an action packed trip so be ready to keep going e...

J

James

Jan 2019

Written on

Will already give a good idea of what to expect

Its a fast paced east coast trip from Sydney to Brisbane. It covers a lot of ground and visits a lot of places. Its an action packed trip so be ready to keep going e...

C

Carol Cattee

May 2023

Written on

Kata Tjuta Uluru and Kings Canyon Budget

We did the Budget tours and were satisfied with the accommodation

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