Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Australia

Drive along the Great Ocean Road in a camper, swim in the natural pools of Kakadu National Park, snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef, and taste delicious wines in Barossa Valley: Come with us to Australia - there are plenty of reasons to go!

Australia is a travel destination that places high on many bucket lists. However, the long journey often means that very few actually fulfill their wish to explore this beautiful country. Here we present to you the top Australian attractions that will surely motivate you to embark on your trip to the Southern Hemisphere as soon as possible. From the tropical north with Cape Tribulation, across the dry landscapes around Uluru, to dream beaches and world metropolises like Sydney and Melbourne, Australia has something for everyone.

For an initial overview of the sights in Australia, here is a clear map with all the important points:

The Great Barrier Reef is the most important attraction in Australia and possibly one of the most beautiful in the entire world. Covering an area of 348,700 km², it is the largest coral reef on Earth, consisting of almost 3,000 individual reefs. It stretches over an incredible 2,300 kilometers with countless islands off the Australian east coast.

But not only the numbers are impressive - the coral reef itself, whether viewed from the air or while diving or snorkeling underwater, is incredibly fascinating. You can visit the Great Barrier Reef from several locations along the east coast of Australia. Tours are offered everywhere, and you can spend one or several days on the different islands, swimming in the brightly colored sea. You can even stay on a boat or in accommodations on the islands of the Great Barrier Reef. If you're willing to shell out a bit more cash, you can even see the color spectacle from diverse blue tones via helicopter.

Warning: Before visiting the Great Barrier Reef, you should be aware of one thing: We humans are harming the reef through ocean pollution, and the effects of global warming and environmental catastrophes contribute to its ongoing destruction. Many corals have already died. Although you cannot stop this process alone, you should be aware of how precious the coral reef is for the Earth and behave accordingly. More information can be found in our article about vanishing travel destinations.

Australia's landmark is Uluru, known in English as Ayers Rock. This sandstone monolith, which has existed for about 550 million years and lies in the center of the Australian mainland, is a sacred symbol for Australia's Indigenous peoples.

Nevertheless, in recent decades, tourists have repeatedly climbed the 348-meter-high rock in the Red Center. However, this is now no longer allowed: The Aborigines have made a statement, and since October 26, 2019, climbing Uluru has been prohibited.

Uluru was originally the name given to the rock by the Aborigines centuries ago. It was only from the late 19th century that Australian authorities referred to it as Ayers Rock. Since 2002, the mountain officially carries both names. The rock primarily consists of sandstone, and depending on the time of day, it shines in brownish to reddish tones. Its location in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park makes Ayers Rock the perfect destination for an exciting road trip through the red landscapes of the Australian Outback.

If you are traveling along the east coast, you must include a visit to Fraser Island. If you want to embark on the trip on your own, you'll need a rental car with all-wheel drive, as the island, which also carries the title 'largest sand island in the world,' has no regular roads.

It's best to book a guided tour. Typically, there are 1- to 3-day tours where you can hit all the beautiful spots on the island. To see all the highlights of the 1,840 square kilometer UNESCO World Heritage site, we recommend booking at least a 2-day tour. On this island, which is part of the Great Sandy National Park, you will race along the endless Seventy Five Mile Beach with a 4-Wheel Drive. Our tip: Keep your eyes open, as you might spot whales off the coast. Lake McKenzie, a shimmering turquoise freshwater lake, is always included in the tours on Fraser Island.

Relax at the clear water with a picnic and enjoy the beautiful Australian nature. You can walk through the deepest rainforest, spot dingoes, and swim in Eli Creek or one of the freshwater lakes. An adventurous trip is definitely guaranteed! More tips on Fraser Island can be found in our article about the island.

The architecture of the Sydney Opera House is world-famous. The opera house, known primarily for its silhouette design, stands at the Sydney harbor and is considered the city's landmark as well as, alongside Uluru, a national symbol.

Construction began in 1959 based on the modern expressionist design by Jørn Utzon, an award-winning Danish architect. It was not fully completed until 14 years later. Since 2007, the Sydney Opera House has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In five different halls with over 5,500 seats, you can enjoy exciting theater and art performances as well as music concerts throughout the year. More than eight million visitors attend performances or tours at Sydney's impressive opera house each year. If you stroll along the Sydney Harbour in the evening, you're in for a spectacular illumination of the opera house.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is also within walking distance from the Sydney Opera House. Together, both landmarks shape the typical city skyline of Sydney and are featured on numerous postcards. If you are in Sydney, the opera house must be on your list of Australian attractions during your trip - for more information, check out the article about the Sydney Opera House. If you want to learn more about sights in Sydney, take a look at our comprehensive article.

Tip: If you're looking for the best view of the Sydney Opera House besides the famous Harbour Bridge, we recommend Mrs. Macquarie's Chair. From this stone, you can gaze upon the most beautiful harbor panorama, which provides a unique backdrop especially at sunset.

Bondi Beach, located on the east coast of Australia, is one of the country's most famous beaches. Situated in the metropolis of Sydney, it attracts tourists as well as locals looking for a relaxing break from the hectic work life in Sydney. Bondi Beach is much more than just a beach: The Bondi neighborhood is the opposite of the bustling city center of Sydney. Here, life moves at a slower pace, people are relaxed, and instead of suits and briefcases, they carry swimwear and a surfboard under their arms. Surfers, yogis, swimmers, joggers, and many other athletes love to enjoy nature here. The waves at Bondi Beach attract surfers from all over the world, and the Coastal Walk from Bondi to Coogee Beach is especially popular among joggers, while yogis do their sun salutations on the green spaces or cliffs, and swimmers enjoy the Bondi Icebergs Pool year-round. However, you can also relax here wonderfully. Enjoy the sun while lying on the sand or have a delicious drink at one of the nearby cafes.

Only at the beginning of the 20th century did the beach gain fame - initially swimming was not permitted, but over the years it became one of the most visited places in Sydney. Since 2008, Bondi Beach has even been designated a national monument and is therefore listed in the Australian National Heritage List.

Tip: If you're still looking for accommodation for your stay in Sydney, we recommend booking a hotel or a holiday apartment in Bondi, where you can take your time to relax, start your day with a swim or a run along the coast, and reach the center in no time via bus or subway.

If you are in Sydney, a visit to the Blue Mountains National Park is a must. Whether it's just a day trip from Sydney or a longer getaway in nature - there is plenty to discover here.

The easy train ride with the Blue Mountains Line from Sydney Central takes just two hours. Upon arriving in Katoomba, you can simply hop on the shuttle bus that will take you to the most beautiful places in the Blue Mountains. Covering an area of 11,400 km², there are many attractions to discover. The most famous highlight of the Blue Mountains is the Three Sisters, three rock towers that formed over 200 million years ago. At an observation platform, you can capture the rock formations against the backdrop of the Blue Mountains with your camera. A ride on the gondola, which takes you over the gorges of the Blue Mountains and gives you views over the landscape, is highly recommended.

However, don't just explore the Blue Mountains with the shuttle bus or gondola, but also hike the trails because that's the best way to discover nature in all its facets. Caves, waterfalls, and Australian animals await you on the hiking paths. The grey kangaroo, the bare-nosed wombat, koalas, wallabies, and even platypuses might enrich your adventurous hikes.

For some, it might seem far-fetched to refer to Tasmania, which simultaneously represents its own state, as an attraction. However, it often receives too little attention on tours through Australia. Thus, Tasmania is undoubtedly one of Australia's most important attractions and is packed with many exciting highlights, making it definitely worth a visit.

Tasmania lies south of the Australian mainland, near Melbourne. From there, you have the shortest access, which you can choose to undertake via either ferry or plane. With an area of 64,519 km², one-third of which is adorned with national parks, the main island is the largest island in Australia. 25% of Tasmania belongs to UNESCO World Heritage sites - you can see, for nature lovers, the island is a true paradise. The climate also contributes to making Tasmania especially attractive to active holidaymakers, with daytime temperatures ranging from 11 to 22 degrees throughout the year, making the weather perfect for exploring the landscapes.

It's best to head to Hobart first, as the capital of the island not only has the largest airport but also serves as a great starting point to get to know the local culture. Cozy cafes and bars invite you to linger, while the huge Salamanca Market is perfect for picking up souvenirs and strolling along the harbor. From here, it's just a two-hour drive to Freycinet National Park, where breathtaking views of Wineglass Bay await you after hiking to the peaks.

On the east coast, you will find deserted beaches, and from the mountains, you might even spot whales off the coast. West of Hobart is the Southwest National Park, which offers a contrast to the east coast. Wild landscapes and rugged peaks, interrupted only by idyllic lakes, invite you to adventurous hikes. If you prefer tropical flora and small waterfalls, then a visit to Mount Field National Park, which is also located in southern Tasmania, is recommended. More tips for the diverse Tasmania can be found in our article.

We are sure each of you knows the Great Ocean Road, as it is one of the most well-known attractions in Australia and one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the world. If you are planning a trip to Southern Australia, a road trip along the Great Ocean Road should be on your bucket list. We recommend doing the trip from west to east and then connecting it with a few days in Melbourne.

The coastal road starts in Warrnambool. Here in the west, around the Port Campbell National Park, you will find attractions like the famous Twelve Apostles, the Loch Ard Gorge, and the collapsed London Arch. What nature has created for you from the cliffs is truly impressive. At the tip of the cliff, you will reach Cape Otway with the lighthouse before the coastal road continues to run northeast. Be sure not to miss the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, where you should always keep your eyes peeled as koalas are often seen in the treetops of the Great Otway National Park. From now on, small coastal towns invite you to take a break. Treat yourself to a snack in one of the cafes in Apollo Bay or Lorne, and stroll through the little shops. Enjoy the views of the wild coast or grab a surfboard and ride the waves in Victoria. Especially Bells Beach, just before Torquay, has gained international fame among surfers. You can find out everything else you need to know about the Great Ocean Road in our detailed article.

From Torquay, it's just 100 kilometers to Melbourne, a metropolis that you should not miss! Hip neighborhoods, colorful markets, and a wide variety of beaches await you here. In our Melbourne tips, we tell you everything about the big city.

Paradisiacal white sandy beaches meet turquoise water - this isn't just found in the Maldives but also off the east coast of Australia. Part of Queensland, the 74 Whitsunday Islands in the Great Barrier Reef are located just a few kilometers from Airlie Beach. This is also where you should start your tour to the islands, as the journey is very short.

The islands are primarily known for their swirling sandbanks that blend like a piece of art with the turquoise water.

Out of the 74 islands, 17 are inhabited, with Hamilton Island being the largest. Many resorts and hotels are located here, making it a draw for many vacationers. The significantly smaller Hayman Island is also popular, which only has a large luxury hotel. On Hayman Island, active vacationers will find happiness, as there is a vast range of activities like diving, fishing, tennis, beach volleyball, and various water sports available. However, the Whitsundays are not just for luxury holidays: Many backpackers stop by during their travels through Australia to explore the Great Barrier Reef. A 2- to 3-day tour that includes overnight stays on the boat as well as snorkeling trips and other highlights is highly recommended for budget travelers.

Especially the famous Whitehaven Beach is a popular destination. As surreal as the photos of this unique beach may seem - we have seen it ourselves and promise it is truly breathtakingly beautiful. With a quartz content of 99%, it is one of the whitest beaches in the world.

Your options on the Whitsundays are practically endless. You can arrive by speedboat, sailing boat, or helicopter, book a sustainable nature tour, or enjoy a luxury vacation. Hike through the dense green forests on the islands, discover magical waterfalls, and stunning bays. You might encounter turtles, starfish, colorful fish, and even humpback whales on your excursions, making the experience absolutely unforgettable.

Just a few kilometers west of Perth in Western Australia lies Rottnest Island in the Indian Ocean. With an area of just 20 km², it is one of Australia's smaller islands. Thus, a trip to the island is perfect for 1 to 3 days where you can explore Rottnest Island in all its facets by bike - motor vehicles are not allowed here.

Especially bird watchers will be delighted on Rottnest Island, which is known for rare birds, such as the rock parrot. But other rare species, like the quokka, also known as the short-tailed kangaroo, feel right at home on the island. Did you know that the island got its name Rottnest Island, meaning 'Rat's Nest Island,' because they once thought the quokkas were large rats?

Rottnest Island is truly a paradise of nature. For those who simply want to relax in the sun, the island offers an impressive 63 beaches to choose from - our favorites are Thomson Bay, with boats bobbing in the water and cafes nearby, and Little Salmon Bay, with fine powdered sand, rugged rocks, and crystal-clear water. If you prefer an active day out, you can either explore the island by bike or trek along the Wadjemup Bidi Trails, which cover 45 kilometers of coastlines with rock landscapes, dream beaches, and secluded bays. Keep your eyes peeled, as you have a chance to spot dolphins and humpback whales, especially at the West End.

Fishing, surfing, and diving are other exciting experiences awaiting you on Rottnest Island. However, you should definitely join a quokka walk, as a guide will share everything you need to know about these adorable animals and take you to spots where you can see them in their natural habitat.

Tip: The best way to experience Rottnest Island is to combine it with a stay in Perth. The city in Western Australia is the only major city west of Darwin, and thus the entire western half of the country. In addition to large parks, museums, cozy cafes, and impressive buildings attract you to the city with almost 2 million inhabitants.

Make sure to include a stop at Kangaroo Island on your journey through southern Australia. Most travelers in Australia haven't even noticed this island in South Australia, which is precisely why it's the perfect destination for anyone seeking peace in nature.

A rental car is a must on Kangaroo Island, as it allows you to take in the highlights of the Australian island at your own pace and stop wherever you please. You will arrive in the east of the island in Penneshaw. From here, head west, where you can stop at Nepean Bay and Emu Bay to relax by the sea. In the small town of Kingscote, look forward to seeing penguin colonies and pelican feedings - an unforgettable experience! As you head south, be sure to include a stop at Seal Bay in your plans, where you can visit the sea lions lounging on the beach with a ranger. Not far from here is Vivonne Bay, which we consider the most beautiful bay on the whole island. With its snowy white sand, an old jetty, turquoise water, and wild nature, it creates a picturesque setting. If you're lucky, you might even have it all to yourself.

You can spend the night in a campground in the Flinders Chase National Park, right in the wilderness. This way, you'll enjoy dinner with company from possums, wallabies, and kangaroos that feel at home here. A highlight of your trip on the island are the remarkable rocks in the southwest of Kangaroo Island. The oddly shaped rock formations appear as a masterpiece of nature. From here, you also have a breathtaking view of the vast ocean. A crowning conclusion to your journey across the island is the sunset at Cape du Couedic. Watch as the sun sinks into the ocean and enjoy the beauty of Australian nature.

Among the most important attractions in Australia are, of course, the highlights in the northern part of the country. Alongside Uluru, there is another destination in the Northern Territory that you should keep in mind while planning your journey through the country: Kakadu National Park.

Covering almost 20,000 km², countless adventures await you here, so you should definitely plan 2 to 3 days for the national park, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. What makes the park special is, in addition to its diverse nature, consisting of over 1,700 plant species, rainforests, river landscapes, and reddish gorges, the Indigenous art you will find in nature. Admire some of the most beautiful Aboriginal rock paintings!

The national park stretches around four river systems: the East, West, and South Alligator River and the Wildman River. With a bit of luck, you can even spot freshwater and saltwater crocodiles here. At the Jim Jim Falls, the water cascading down from the rivers and creeks of the park drops 200 meters. There are no crocodiles here, so you can even take a dip in the natural pool. This is especially refreshing after adventurous hikes through the bush landscapes.

At the rock formation of Ubirr in the northern part of the national park, you will find significant Aboriginal arts that you should not miss. Kakadu National Park truly has something to offer for everyone, which is why you will also find it on our list of the most beautiful national parks in Australia and in the top 5 national parks in Northern Territory.

Tip: Since Kakadu National Park is located just 170 kilometers east of Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory, you can seamlessly combine your road trip with a stay in the city.

The reef off the west coast of Australia stretches for 250 kilometers along the mainland. This makes it just a tenth the length of the Great Barrier Reef, yet beautiful Ningaloo Reef remains a UNESCO World Heritage site. Thanks to its proximity to the mainland, you can start tours into the reef from many places. From some beaches, it's even just 100 meters to Ningaloo Reef. Along with a colorful fish world, manta rays, turtles, and dolphins, you can even discover whales, whale sharks, and dugongs at Ningaloo Reef. The main season for humpback whales is from June to November, and the best time for whale sharks is from May to July.

The city of Exmouth, located at the northern section of the Australian west coast, is the perfect starting point for tours in the area. If you book a hotel here, you can take day trips to Cape Range National Park, which is also located directly at the reef. In this national park, you can wonderfully observe Australia's wildlife while hiking. However, the beaches in the national park offer direct access to Ningaloo Reef. This means you just need to strap on your snorkeling gear and swim right into the reef.

The water is so clear that you can see the corals from afar. Especially popular is Turquoise Bay, whose name is very promising. Further south at Ningaloo Reef, you will find Coral Bay. Coral Bay isn't just a bay; it's an entire town, complete with hotels, campsites, and tour providers for excursions into the reef.

In the tropical north of Queensland on the east coast lies Cape Tribulation. The cape is located north of the city of Cairns and entices visitors with its tropical charm: before you lies the gigantic Great Barrier Reef, regarded as the largest coral reef in the world; behind you is one of the oldest rainforests on our planet, the Daintree Rainforest.

Cape Tribulation translates roughly to 'Cape of Misfortune' - however, if you look around here, you are bound to feel anything but troubled. The name originated from James Cook in the 18th century, who ran aground here and nearly lost his life. Today, the cape is a popular vacation destination and even a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can reach Cape Tribulation by car, or you can book a tour from Cairns, located 140 kilometers south, or from Port Douglas, 45 kilometers south. Don't forget your hiking shoes, as before you relax on the dream beaches of Cape Tribulation, you should undertake some exciting hikes through the Daintree Rainforest. You will hardly believe your eyes when you experience the intense greenery of the forest up close. It's best to start at Mount Alexandra Lookout and get an overview of the area. On a clear day, you can see almost the entire rainforest and even the coastline.

On the Jindalba Boardwalk, you can walk through the depths of the forest, passing ferns, mangroves with their vines, and over 3,000 other plant species. Bats, butterflies, and 430 bird species call this place home. Anyone looking to reward themselves with a unique view while walking should stroll along Myall Beach at the cape, which stretches endlessly along the coast. Locals advise against swimming here, as crocodiles may also be in the water. However, a short walk leads you to Mason's Swimming Hole, where you can bathe in a tropical setting in the river.

The last point on our list of the top 15 attractions in Australia takes you to the southern part of the country. Look forward to one of the world's best wine regions, the popular Barossa Valley among wine lovers. The valley of Australian wines is located in South Australia, not far from the city of Adelaide. The easiest way is to find accommodation in Adelaide and take a tour to the Barossa Valley from there, as this way you will be comfortably transported from one vineyard to the next to taste the wonderful wines across the nearly 10,000 hectares of wine country.

Test the wines and enjoy the fascinating stories behind them. The outgoing and cheerful nature of Australians makes the whole experience a joyful one. Also, take a stroll through the estates of the wineries, as they are truly beautiful to behold. Many of the buildings are made of rustic stone and overgrown with plants, surrounded by gardens featuring flowers and charming details. Be sure to take a peek in the wine cellars.

Tip: Barossa Valley is only a 60-minute drive from Adelaide. The capital of South Australia is definitely worth a visit and is also a suitable place for your overnight stay. It's best to go in the Australian autumn when the vineyards bloom in golden colors and the harvest season is ripe.

Are you looking for more tickets for museums and sites or tours to islands or natural wonders? Then check out the following selection of offers, as there is sure to be something for everyone!

By now, Australia should have captivated you just as much as it has us. If you still need suitable flights and accommodations for your trip to Australia, you will surely find them here. Now quickly pack your bags and discover the beauty of Australia with its top attractions!