Things to do in Australia: 14 must-see attractions

Sydney pairs a laid-back coastal culture with iconic architecture, creating a skyline that feels as recognizable as downtown Chicago. Beyond the famous harbor landmarks, the city balances urban exploration with easy access to rugged nature, from historic neighborhoods to expansive green spaces. Whether you are looking for late-night bars or quiet, authentic local spots, the city offers a functional mix of high-energy city life and beach-town relaxation.

Melbourne is the definitive urban and cultural pulse of Australia. This city stands out for its distinct neighborhoods, an obsession with high-end coffee, pervasive street art, and a food scene that holds its own against any major global capital. Between the eclectic architecture, cobblestone alleyways hiding speakeasy-style bars, and lively urban beaches, the Victorian capital feels nothing like the rest of the country. Plan on at least five days to get a real sense of the place.

Canberra is Australia's low-key capital, designed around the massive Lake Burley Griffin with a layout that prioritizes green space, think of a planned city vibe similar to Washington, D.C. Spend your time at the Australian National Gallery or the Australian War Memorial before heading out to the Murrumbateman vineyards or the Snowy Mountains. It is a strategic base for travelers looking to look past the coastal cities and dig into the country's political and cultural history.

Perth may boast a population of over two million, yet it ranks as one of the most isolated cities on the planet. The fourth largest city in Australia also serves as the capital of Western Australia. Its distinct character and relaxed pace make it well worth two or three days on any Australian itinerary.

An Urban Escape in Downtown Perth

Perth delivers an enviable lifestyle. Ample green spaces, a sleek yet welcoming downtown, and year-round sunshine make it easy to picture moving here. Start your exploration in the core of the city, which invites easy wandering. You will likely spot the Swan Bells, a set of 18 bells housed in an 82.5-meter bell tower gifted by England. Head up to the top of the Bell Tower for a sweeping view over Perth. The arts district also demands a detour, filled with street art tucked into every corner. Do not miss the Art Gallery of Western Australia, which showcases Indigenous art brilliantly.

Feeling hungry? You have two solid options. Grab a bite at the microbrewery in the Fremantle fishing boat harbor, or browse the stalls at the Fremantle Market, a favorite among locals and travelers alike for its lively atmosphere. Beach lovers can check out any of the ten long stretches of golden sand, including Cottesloe, Floreat Beach, and City Beach.

Exploring Local Flora and Fauna

The undisputed star of Perth is King’s Park, a massive green space covering over 400 hectares right in the middle of town. Marked trails keep you from getting lost in this sprawling park. The Lotterywest Federation Walkway takes you up above the tree canopy on a glass and steel skywalk. Nearby, the Botanic Garden spans 17 hectares, offering a look at the endemic plant life of the Australian continent. For wildlife, head to the Perth Zoo, which houses 1,300 animals, or the Aquarium of Western Australia, the largest in the entire country. Wind down your day with a stroll along the banks of the Swan River as it cuts through the city. Have an extra day to spare? Catch a ferry from Perth out to Rottnest Island, a 19-square-kilometer island. Home to only a few hundred permanent residents, it serves as a peaceful retreat for walking, cycling, and swimming.

When to go

Perth enjoys great weather year-round, so you can plan your trip whenever your schedule allows. Temperatures consistently hover between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. If you prefer to avoid the most intense heat, note that the sun beats down particularly hard from December through March.

How to get there

A flight from Paris to Perth takes at least 20 hours with a minimum of two layovers. For airfare, expect to pay $700 to $1,400* depending on the season and total travel time. You can also travel from Sydney to Perth by taking a domestic flight, which lasts about five hours.

As Australia's third-largest city, Brisbane balances a high-rise urban core with a subtropical climate that feels like a permanent Florida summer. You can spend your morning hiking at Mount Coot-tha for a panoramic view of the skyline or relaxing along the river at South Bank, then head to the arts district for local exhibits. With the Moreton Bay islands and the Sunshine Coast beaches just a short drive away, this city serves as a practical base for exploring the coast.