Australia is a country, and continent, surrounded by the Indian and Pacific oceans. Among the many iconic sites and landmarks you can visit in Australia are cities such as Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide – are coastal, but its capital, Canberra, is inland and nicknamed the “Bush Capital.” The country is known for its Sydney Opera House, Great Barrier Reef, the vast Outback (interior desert wilderness) and unique animal species including kangaroos and duck-billed platypuses. While these spots are very popular with tourists, there are a number of tourist attractions in Australia that aren’t as well-known but are just as impressive.
Melbourne, Victoria
This is a must-see paradise that is equally as comparable to Sydney and that is surrounded by crystal clear ocean waters, tons of tourist attractions, shops, eateries and much more. With more than 3 million residents, one would never think that this metropolis had rather humble beginnings as a gold rush town in Victoria during the 1800s. If you are staying at a hotel in Melbourne, make sure to jot down the following prime attractions into your must-see list: The Immigration Museum, Gold Treasury Museum, Old Melbourne Gaol (Jail), National Gallery of Victoria, Scienceworks, Royal Botanic Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens, Treasury Gardens and Melbourne Aquarium.
Darwin, Northern Territory
If you have time while in Australia, head to the Northern Territory—where you will find the historical town of Darwin. Settled by the Dutch and the French in 1864, and rich with war history, particularly WWII – where it served as a naval allied base and was attacked 64 times by the Japanese; something few people actually know – you can use Darwin as your central hub for soaking up some rich history of these people’s and their land, as well as trekking out to other nearby attractions that include: Kakadu National Park, Arnhem Land, Jim Jim Falls, Litchfield National Park, Darwin Crocodile Farm, The Larapinta Trail, The Olgas and Devil’s Marbles Conservation Park.
Sydney, New South Wales / New South Whales
Should be near the top of your list, and is one of the top tourist destinations in this country. Aside from the gorgeous and picturesque views of Sydney Harbor and the Australian coastline, there are numerous tourist attractions in Australia that are not to be missed when here. A few to add to your list include: The Rocks, Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour, Darling Harbour, Sydney Olympic Park, AMP Tower and Sydney Beaches (including: Bondi and Manly).
Fraser Island, Queensland
Ever wonder what the world’s largest sand island looks like? If you do find yourself in South-East Queensland, then you need to make sure that you add this island to your list of tourist destinations in Australia. This tropical retreat spans 184,000 hectares and stretches over 120 km off the beautiful Fraser coast.
Royal National Park
Only an hour’s drive south of Sydney lies the Royal National Park, a sprawling nature reserve that stretches from the rugged coastline to the inland rainforests. Walking and biking are the favorite activities in the park the locals call “Nasho.” There’s an extensive network of trails to explore, including the self-guided tour along the Lady Carrington Walk, which features historical markers and crosses more than a dozen streams. Located inside the park is the town of Bundeena where a 30-minute walk leads visitors to the ancient Aboriginal rock art at Jibbon Head.
