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Australia & South Pacific

Australia Vacations, Tours, Trips & Travel Packages

  • View of the Sydney Harbour Bridge
  • Cozy up to a koala in person and make memories with an Australian icon
  • Enjoy endless hours of sunshine in Perth, the sunniest of Australia's capital cities
  • The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living thing on Earth and is a must visit on any Australia vacation.
  • Take a dip in the clear blue waters of Tasmania's Beerbarrel Beach

Before setting off on an Australia vacation, learn something about the country's background and history. Is it an island or a continent? Australia is the sixth-largest landmass in the world, supporting endless diversity across its six states and two territories. One can explore tropical rainforests, red deserts, coral reefs, snow-clad mountains, wetlands, wine regions, national parks, bushland, and so much more. That's not to discount Australia's equally diverse and culture-rich cities. 

Why should I travel to Australia?

The list of reasons for visiting Australia is endless, whether you're looking to stretch out on its beaches, see its unique nature and wildlife (think of indigenous animals such as kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, wombats, Tasmanian devils, kookaburras and emus), abundant sports including surfing, scuba diving, and snorkelling, delicious food and wine (including the world's best Shiraz), and cultural attractions. 

What are the best places to visit in Australia?

It's difficult to do Australia justice in just one trip, and almost impossible to rank its attractions and cities, but here are some top picks for your shortlist.

Sydney: Your Welcome to Australia

The country’s largest city is known as “The Harbour City” due to it being mainly built around Sydney Harbour. It has been recognized as one of the world’s most beautiful metropolises, dominated by the striking Sydney Harbour Bridge (also known as the “Coat Hanger”) and the Sydney Opera House with its sail-shaped design. Sydney also boasts a number of sandy surf beaches within easy reach of its centre, including Bondi and Manly. A harbour cruise takes in not only the skyline of Sydney but also the attractive nearby suburbs spread out around the harbour. The city boasts several very beautiful and scenic parks including the Royal Botanical Gardens in the shadow of Government House. Nearby, you'll find the Art gallery of New South Wales, the Museum of Sydney, and the Australian Museum. Take a stroll around the historic Rocks neighbourhood with its Art Deco buildings, or Paddington with its grand Victorian homes and lively café and restaurant scene,

What are the best day trips from Sydney?

Two hours west of the city, the Blue Mountains offer remarkable scenery and are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The dramatic scenery encompasses steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, waterfalls, and small villages. The mountains include the Three Sisters, a trio of awe-inspiring rocky pinnacles. There are 140 kilometres/75 miles of walking trails as well as a cable railway purported to be the steepest anywhere. Katoomba, a small town offering arty boutique shops makes a base for staying overnight. Another region not far from Sydney is the Hunter Valley, a wine-producing region with over 120 wineries. The Hunter Valley Gardens are also popular, with 25 acres of colourful flowers. 

Blue Mountains National Park is a great additional to all Australia vacations

Melbourne: Australia's Cultural Capital 

Forever Sydney's friendly rival, Melbourne adds a touch of sophistication to your Australia vacation. It is the most European of Australia’s cities and is the country's cultural capital. Its unique character is defined by its trams (streetcars) and its Victorian-era architecture, plus excellent shopping and cultural sites such as art galleries and museums. It offers colourful neighbourhoods such as Fitzroy and St Kilda, the latter a beach resort as well as a trendy suburb. Melbourne is also a great base for day trips, either to Phillip Island to watch the Little Penguin Parade at sunset, or the scenic Great Ocean Road to take in views of the Twelve Apostles.

Adelaide: Australia's Tastiest City 

Adelaide is an easy-going, relaxed city in love with gardens and good wine. It's also something of a theatre and cabaret hub, hosting a biannual Arts Festival, and the world's largest cabaret festival. It's also a wonderful centre from which to visit the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale wine districts. Nearby Kangaroo Island offers an abundance of wildlife to see along with some unique landscapes, but can be a rushed day trip, so stay overnight if possible. If you're pressed for time, Cleland Conservation Park offers another way to get up close to many of the country’s native animals. 

Canberra: A Custom Built Capital 

Canberra, the serene unhurried and purpose-built and planned capital, is located around the attractive artificial Lake Burley Griffin. Some of the major landmarks are its unmistakable Parliament House, the Old Parliament Building, and the Australian War Memorial. Canberra also has several of Australia's top art galleries and museums.

Brisbane: Welcome to the Sunshine State

Brisbane is Australia’s third-largest city and is known as the “City of Sunny Days” due to its sub-tropical climate. The Brisbane River defines the city's charm and character. A major attraction is the nearby Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s largest, and one of the few places in the world you can legally hold one of these animals. 

Not far from Brisbane are two excellent beach destinations. The Gold Coast offers 30 beaches including world-renowned Surfers Paradise. The Sunshine Coast has 70 kilometres/ 44 miles of uncrowded white-sand beaches to enjoy. Both are close to lush hinterland, with scenic national parks, mountains, waterfalls, and rainforests. 

Perth: Get Out There to Western Australia

Perth might be out of your way, but it's worth the trip! Australia’s fourth-largest city. It is not only laid-back but also culturally diverse with attractive, uncrowded beaches and gardens. King’s Park is a landmark larger than New York's Central Park and encompasses an excellent botanical garden. From Perth, one can visit the wine country of Western Australia in the Swan Valley, and in the Margaret River region.

Darwin and the Top End

Darwin, in the north of the country, is small yet cosmopolitan, thanks to many different cultures that have come to call it home over the years. Besides its own fascinating history, particularly for World War Two buffs, it's a handy base for visiting both Charles Darwin National Park, one of Australia’s largest wetlands, and Kakadu National Park, the country’s largest national park with crocodiles, unique birdlife and the world's largest collection of Aboriginal rock art. Try a short boat cruise there to see everything. 

Cairns: Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree

Cairns in Northern Queensland is the northern gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and is an essential addition for any Australian first-timer. It is also surrounded by rainforest and the scenic rail trip to the town of Kuranda is another must-do.  A little further north, you'll find the world's oldest living rainforest, the beautiful Daintree.

How Do I Take A Great Barrier Reef Tour?

Australia's Great Barrier Reef is located on the east coast. It is 2300 kilometres/1400 miles in length with a colourful underwater kingdom containing 1500 species of tropical fish alone. It is the largest coral reef formation in the world offering a spectacular array of marine life. You can reach many parts of the reef from Cairns or nearby Port Douglas. However, further to the south lie the Whitsundays, a group of islands that includes Hayman, Hamilton and Whitehaven Islands. An excellent, less crowded way to see lesser-known parts of the Great Barrier Reef is to take a short cruise from the Whitsundays.

The spectacular Great Barrier Reef should be included on all trips to Australia.

The Australian Outback

The Australian Outback is a vast area made up of either semi-arid or desert land. A great place to start exploring is in Alice Springs, and it`s the perfect place to explore the “Red Centre." It is also the home of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Activities here can include camel rides from one of the many camel farms, stargazing under the clear desert skies, and hot air ballooning. One can visit the nearby King’s Canyon and the MacDonnell Ranges. 450 kilometres/270 miles away is Uluru or Ayers Rock, the huge sandstone monolith which rises 348 metres/1142 feet above the surrounding desert. To the local Anangu people, it is a sacred site, and climbing is now forbidden. One of the interesting features of the rock is the change in colour as the day progresses. Nearby, you'll find Kata Tjuta, also known as The Olgas. Said in the Aboriginal legend to be the eggs of the Rainbow Serpent that first created the world, these domes are in fact the eroded remains of another monolith that was once larger than Uluru.

Add a Cheeky Tour of Tasmania

Tasmania is an incredibly scenic destination with many rugged mountains and wilderness areas, It is in fact, the most mountainous state in Australia. Jagged peaks rise above dense forests and misty lakes in areas like Cradle Mountain. Tasmania's capital, Hobart is a pretty, arts-loving city with a vibrant waterfront and harbour built on reclaimed land. It is also associated historically with the convict era, as depicted at the Port Arthur Historic Site, an ex-penal colony. A short ferry ride up the Derwent River lies the cutting-edge Museum of Old and New Art.

There is so much more to enjoy and experience in this magical land. The biggest decision is choosing where to visit in the time available. Our Best Time to Visit Australia page will also help you decide when to travel. 

Travel to Australia from the USA 

Continental North America's closest major international airport to Australia is Los Angeles (LAX). Whether you are flying into Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne the flight time for nonstop flights ranges between 13hrs to 16hrs.

San Francisco (SFO) is another popular gateway with a similar flight duration. There are also nonstop flights to Sydney from Houston (IAH) and Dallas (DFW).

Travel to Australia from Canada

The only nonstop flights to Australia fly out of Vancouver International (YVR). Other popular routes connect through the USA.

"Globetrotting with Goway" blog articles

For some additional reading, the following articles are from our blog “Globetrotting with Goway,”.a great source of information for any kind of globetrotter.

Visiting the Icons of OZ on An Australia Vacation (Part 1)

Visiting the Icons of OZ on An Australia Vacation (Part 2)

Discover the WOW Factor of South Australia

Australia's Iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Opera House - Australia's Architectural Wonder

Plan Your Perfect Australia Escape

Enjoy Cruising in Australia and the South Pacific

Top 10 Things to Do in Melbourne, Australia

Top 5 Places to Visit in Australia This Summer

Top 10 Things to Do in Sydney, Australia

Swimming With the Fishes in Australia

7 Great Reasons to Take Your Kids to Australia This Summer

Odd Facts about Australia

2 Myths About Travel to Australia

World's Best Family Destinations

Travel Through the Australian Outback By Train

Australia Vacation Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Australia vacations. 

Learn about the history and culture of Australia, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Australia's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Australia for yourself. Start exploring. Book one of our Australia tours today! 

Extend Your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your Australia vacation at one of Goway's South Pacific destinations. You can choose from our selection of  New Zealand vacation packages, Tahiti vacation packages stay at one of our featured Fiji resorts or perhaps take a Cook Island vacation. This can be done en route to or from Australia.

Read More

FEATURED TRIP
  • Catch a show or wander around the artistically built Sydney Opera House during your next Trips to Australia.
  • Experience sunrise in Cairns at your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef during your next Australia tours.
  • Take a look at the beautiful view of the Great Barrier Reef from Aerial during your next Australia vacations.
  • Visit Bondi beach and take a walk at the white sandy beaches on your next trip to Australia.
  • Meet the "locals" during your next Australia vacations.
  • Experience the amazing Uluru at Sunset during your next Australia vacations.
FEATURED TRIP

Classic Sydney, Rock & Reef

MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Venture to three of Australia’s most famous spots, cosmopolitan Sydney, the outback and tropical Queensland. Get to know Sydney before catching the sunset over Uluru (Ayers Rock). Then explore Cairns, the rainforest and the incredible Great Barrier Reef.

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Australia

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  • Cradle Mountain Huts Walk

    This six day walk is a journey within Tasmania’s World Heritage Area that features a huge diversity of flora and fauna. Spend nights in a private hut nestled away in this remarkable park.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,908
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Darwin Wildlife Discovery

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Visit Darwin, capital of the Northern Territory and gateway to Kakadu National Park. Kakadu is Crocodile Dundee territory and you’ll have the chance to cruise the East Alligator River.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 828
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Darwin, Kakadu and Arnhemland

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: The average Australia vacation rarely gives the Northern Territory the attention it deserves. Get a real taste of the Australian Outback on this adventure from Darwin into Kakadu National Park and Arnhemland.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,360
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Discover Australia

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: This 12-day Australia vacation promises a remarkable experience combining Australia’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary scenes. Travel from the historical harbour of Sydney to the awe-inspiring Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, and the vibrant laneways of Melbourne as you discover Australia.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,479
    Trip Type:
    Go as you Please, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Discover Friendly Brisbane

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Offering a subtropical climate, Brisbane is Australia’s “city of sunny days”. Take advantage of this gateway to the Sunshine Coast and visit the famous Crocodile Hunter’s Australia Zoo.
    Duration:
    3 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 680
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Discover Melbourne and Tasmania

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore cosmopolitan Melbourne and the island of Tasmania which has much to offer. Drive through Strahan then the Cradle Mountains, famous for alpine scenery, to Hobart stopping at Launceston, Freycinet and Port Arthur.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Discover Sunny Perth

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Perth is an aquatic paradise with clean beaches and pleasant river foreshores. It is an ideal base to explore the diverse surrounding areas including the colourful port city of Freemantle.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 520
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Discover Tropical North Queensland

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore the world’s oldest rainforest and the world’s largest coral reef on this journey to Far North Queensland. Based in Cairns and Port Douglas, you’ll tour the lush rainforests of Kuranda via train, cruise and snorkel the Outer Barrier Reef, enjoy a wine and food tour in the Outback, and cap it off with an adventure through the Daintree Rainforest.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,919
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Go as you Please, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of Brisbane and the Great Barrier Reef

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Spend 9 days exploring Queensland out of Brisbane, Australia's only sub-tropical capital city, and Port Douglas, a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree National Park. Floating along ancient rainforest rivers, feeding dolphins on a sailing tour of the Great Barrier Reef, and cuddling with koalas at Australia Zoo are just some of the unforgettable experiences you will have on this tailor-made trip to Australia.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,269
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of Brisbane, Melbourne and the Great Barrier Reef

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Discover the best of Brisbane, Melbourne, and the Great Barrier Reef on this 11-day Australia vacation. Explore sunny Brisbane and its nearby rainforest on an exciting river cruise. Venture north to Port Douglas and immerse yourself in the Great Barrier Reef and ancient Daintree Rainforest. Finish your trip exploring Melbourne's iconic laneways and Phillip Island's Penguin Parade.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,749
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of Brisbane, Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Combine three Aussie highlights on one convenient vacation. Start in sunny Brisbane, where you’ll explore the city and visit the nearby rainforest. Connect north to Cairns to cruise the Great Barrier Reef and explore the Daintree River. Finish your trip in Sydney to see the city’s iconic sights on a luxury luncheon cruise.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,349
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas, Vacation Packages with Airfare
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of South Australia

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Discover the WOW (wildlife, Outback, and wine) state of South Australia! Explore Adelaide, the elegant capital with a Mediterranean climate, discover the Fleurieu Peninsula on a 4WD safari, sample some of Australia’s best wine in the Barossa Valley, and spot the incredible wildlife of Kangaroo Island.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,995
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of the Great Barrier Reef

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Visit the reef and rainforest on this 4-day escape to Port Douglas. Cruise a protected coral cay along the Great Barrier Reef and snorkel off white-sand beaches. Then travel north to Cape Tribulation to explore the Daintree Rainforest and spot Australian wildlife in their natural habitat.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 761
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of the Red Centre: Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon & Alice Springs

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Australia’s Red Centre by visiting and learning about some of the country’s most iconic areas. See the sunset over Ayers Rock, visit the 36 rock domes of the Olgas, and travel to spectacular Kings Canyon and then Alice Springs.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,165
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of Victoria

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Get to know the state of Victoria on this Australian vacation. Discover Melbourne’s trendy side with a laneway and arcades tour, observe the dramatic coastline of the Great Ocean Road, and meet wild koalas in the company of an expert guide and researcher.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,789
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essential Australia: Sydney, Rock, Reef, Melbourne

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Experience Australia’s diverse landscape and world-class landmarks on this journey across the nation. Explore the famous cities of Sydney and Melbourne, delve into ancient culture and see Uluru/Ayers Rock, cruise the Great Barrier Reef, and discover the Daintree Rainforest.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,656
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Food & Wine Downunder

    FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Discover some of Australia’s famous and not so famous wines, and immerse your taste buds with local produce and dishes as your travel. This private tailor-made tour is a foodies dream! Our Groups Only Specialist will be delighted to put together your customized trip to Australia for your group. Note: This is a sample itinerary, which is private and fully customizable for group travellers.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Specialty Groups & Events
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Great Aussie City and Coastal Escape

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Embark on an expedition through Australia's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. From the bustling streets of Brisbane to the tranquil beauty of Uluru, immerse yourself in cultural richness and natural wonders. Discover hidden laneways in Melbourne, indulge in wine tastings in the Yarra Valley, and explore iconic landmarks in Sydney. Conclude your journey in the enchanting Blue Mountains, where breathtaking vistas and serene trails await. Experience the essence of Australia on this unforgettable odyssey of discovery and wonder.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,759
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Great Aussie Surf Adventure

    Five amazing days of surf, sun, great food and people await you. This is “the be all and end all” of Surf Adventures, the best way to immerse yourself in Australia’s favourite pastime.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 564
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Ideas for 18 to 30 Somethings, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Great Barrier Reef Self Drive from Cairns

    Beginning and ending in Cairns, drive Tropical North Queensland, visit the Tropical Tablelands, the Daintree Cape Tribulation coast and Port Douglas - hub of the Reef and Rainforest coast.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 759
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Highlights of New South Wales

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Discover the charm and beauty of New South Wales on this journey to Sydney and beyond. In Sydney, tour The Rocks and the Sydney Opera House, before heading into the Blue Mountains to see the Three Sisters and visiting award-winning wineries in the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,229
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Hobart: Heart of Tasmania: Premier Escorted Vacation

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOURING: Experience Tasmania’s glorious nature and lovely culture on this premier vacation through the heart of the island. Starting and ending in Hobart, you’ll cruise along the Gordon River, discover the majestic nature of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair, cross the untouched Tarkine region, and sample the island’s most famous wines.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,895
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Hobart: Tasmania Complete: Premier Escorted Vacation

    Prepare for a journey of discovery, delving into colourful history and awe-inspiring natural highlights of Tasmania. Explore the remote west coast, roam the best of Cradle Mountain National Park, take in the incredible viewpoints of the state's east, and explore one of the world's cheekiest art spaces.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,430
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Hobart: West Coast Highlights: Premier Escorted Vacation

    Venture across the stunning and rugged landscape of Tasmania to explore its colourful history and savour its natural landmarks. Journeying from Hobart to Launceston, you’ll hike through rainforests, spot waterfalls, and discover the awe-inspiring wonders of Australia’s southernmost state.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,745
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Hobart: Western Wonders of Tasmania: Value Plus Escorted Vacation

    MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Spend six days in Tasmania first visiting the city of Launceston then journey to Freycinet National Park. Stop in historic Port Arthur and Salamanca Place before concluding in Hobart.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,545
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
    Australia See Trip Details
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