Australia is a land of extremes. One minute you’re hiking through an ancient rainforest, and the next you’re watching kangaroos hop across golden beaches. It’s wild, beautiful, and full of surprises. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking to explore new corners of the country, there are some places that simply stand out.
Here’s my list of 7 recommended places to visit in Australia. Each one is special in its own way, and together they show just how diverse and unforgettable this country really is.
1. Sydney, New South Wales
You can’t talk about Australia without starting with Sydney. It’s the kind of city that impresses you from the moment you see it. The Sydney Opera House with its white sails, the massive Harbour Bridge, the ferries cruising across the water—it all just works. And it’s even better in person.
Spend your morning walking through the historic streets of The Rocks, where the city began. Grab a coffee from one of the local cafés, then stroll down to Circular Quay to watch the boats go by. From there, hop on a ferry to Manly Beach. It’s a short ride, but it gives you incredible views of the skyline and the harbor.
If you’re more into surf and sand, Bondi Beach is a must. You can swim, surf, or just relax on the sand. And if you’re up for a walk, the Bondi to Coogee coastal trail is one of the best in the country. It hugs the cliffs and gives you jaw-dropping views the whole way.
Sydney also has a great mix of culture, food, and nightlife. Visit the Art Gallery of NSW, dine at a harborside restaurant, or catch a show at the Opera House. You’ll never run out of things to do.
2. Great Barrier Reef, Queensland
This one’s a no-brainer. The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, and it’s unlike anything else on the planet. Stretching over 2,300 kilometers, it’s packed with vibrant coral, sea turtles, clownfish, reef sharks, and crystal-clear waters.
Cairns is one of the most popular starting points, but you can also explore the reef from Port Douglas or Airlie Beach. There are tours for every kind of traveler—from beginner snorkelers to advanced scuba divers. You don’t even have to get in the water if you don’t want to. Glass-bottom boats and semi-submarine rides let you see the reef while staying dry.
The reef is under pressure from climate change, so seeing it now is both a privilege and a reminder of why conservation matters. It’s one of those places that stays with you long after you leave.
3. Uluru, Northern Territory
Uluru isn’t just a giant rock in the desert. It’s a sacred site, a cultural treasure, and a natural wonder all rolled into one. Rising from the red sands of the Northern Territory, this massive sandstone monolith is deeply connected to Aboriginal traditions and stories.
When you visit Uluru, you feel its presence. The colors change throughout the day—from deep red in the morning to soft purple at sunset. The best way to experience it is with a guided tour led by an Anangu guide, one of the local Indigenous people. They’ll explain the history, the stories, and the spiritual meaning behind every curve and marking on the rock.
Nearby, you’ll also find Kata Tjuta, another incredible formation of domed rocks that are equally impressive. The Valley of the Winds walk here is a must for hikers.
This isn’t just a sightseeing stop. Uluru invites you to slow down, reflect, and connect with something bigger.
4. Melbourne, Victoria
Melbourne feels completely different from Sydney. It’s artsy, laid-back, and full of little surprises. The laneways are where the magic happens. You’ll find hidden bars, amazing coffee shops, bold street art, and vintage boutiques tucked into every alley.
Start at Federation Square, then wander through Hosier Lane to see ever-changing graffiti walls. Head to Queen Victoria Market for fresh food, handmade goods, and a true local vibe. Don’t skip the coffee. Melbourne is serious about its brew, and even a tiny corner café will likely serve you something incredible.
For a dose of culture, visit the National Gallery of Victoria or catch a show at the Melbourne Theatre Company. If you’re into sports, this city is heaven. The Australian Open, the Melbourne Cup, and AFL games all draw huge crowds.
Melbourne also makes a great base for exploring the Great Ocean Road, one of the most scenic drives in the world. The Twelve Apostles at sunset are unforgettable.
5. Tasmania
Tasmania is Australia’s best-kept secret. It’s wild, peaceful, and packed with natural beauty. From dense rainforests to quiet beaches and rugged mountains, it’s like a mini version of everything Australia has to offer.
Start in Hobart, the capital. Visit the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) for a totally unique and sometimes weird art experience. Then walk through Salamanca Market on a Saturday to browse local crafts and taste fresh produce.
Head to Freycinet National Park and hike to the lookout over Wineglass Bay. It’s a bit of a climb, but the view at the top is pure magic. Cradle Mountain is another highlight, with alpine hikes and glacial lakes that look like they belong in a fantasy novel.
Tasmania also has amazing food. Think fresh oysters, creamy cheeses, local wines, and paddock-to-plate meals. It’s a place where you can disconnect and feel close to nature.
6. Perth and Rottnest Island, Western Australia
Perth is one of the most isolated big cities in the world, but that’s part of its charm. It’s sunny, easygoing, and surrounded by natural beauty. Kings Park is a great place to start. It’s bigger than Central Park and gives you panoramic views of the city skyline and Swan River.
Take a day trip to Fremantle for historic buildings, indie shops, and some of the best seafood in the region. But the real gem is Rottnest Island. Just a short ferry ride from Perth, this car-free island is famous for its white sand beaches, turquoise water, and adorable quokkas.
These little marsupials have the happiest faces and love taking selfies with visitors. Rent a bike and spend the day exploring hidden coves and snorkel spots. It’s one of the most relaxing places you’ll ever visit.
7. Daintree Rainforest, Queensland
If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into another world, head to the Daintree Rainforest. It’s one of the oldest tropical rainforests on Earth and home to thousands of plant and animal species found nowhere else.
Walk along the aerial boardwalks at the Daintree Discovery Centre or take a guided tour with an Indigenous guide who can explain the ancient relationship between people and the land. Keep an eye out for cassowaries, giant ferns, and trees that have been around since the dinosaur age.
You can also take a river cruise to spot crocodiles or swim in clear jungle streams. Don’t miss Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef. It’s one of the only places in the world where two World Heritage Sites touch.
The Daintree is a reminder of how wild and ancient Australia really is. It’s a place that slows you down and fills you with wonder.
Final Thought
Australia is huge, and there’s no way to see it all in one trip. But these seven places are a great start. Each one shows a different side of the country—from modern cities and coastal escapes to ancient landscapes and wild nature.
Traveling through Australia isn’t just about ticking off sights. It’s about feeling the rhythm of each place, connecting with people, and experiencing the stories that live in the land.
Wherever you choose to go, just know that adventure is always around the corner.
