Australian cities are diverse and interesting, and many attract visitors from around the globe. Those who wish to explore Australia should meet the necessary visa requirements before embarking on their journey.
Dreamy surf beaches and top-tier entertainment are hallmarks of Sydney, but the city has a burgeoning art scene to keep history buffs happy too. And its famous opera house is a landmark for all.
Sydney
Sydney is Australia’s face to the world, with its beaches and twin landmarks of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It’s also home to spectacular national parks and street art.
The city is a busy metropolis that effortlessly blends the bustle of urban life with the relaxed beach lifestyle for which Australia is known. Spend a day exploring the top attractions like the Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo and Bondi Beach.
Or venture further afield to experience the best of NSW’s remarkable natural beauty. From the mystical Jenolan Caves to the iconic Blue Mountains, you’ll find epic day trips that let you see more of this extraordinary region. Then head back to the city for a night of dining, shopping and live music. Getting around is easy with public transport, including a train service that operates as suburban commuter rail in the outer suburbs, then converges into a central city loop. It’s operated by CityRail, part of the New South Wales state government.
Melbourne
The multicultural city at the mouth of Port Phillip Bay often tops lists of the world’s most livable cities. Grand Victorian buildings, tree-lined promenades and a tangle of hidden laneways add to its appeal. Art lovers can explore museums and galleries while foodies discover a vibrant dining scene.
Melbourne’s many street artists captivate visitors with their acrobatic and artistic talent. These “buskers” perform a variety of musical styles and also include jugglers, living statues and other entertainers.
Federation Square is the heart of Melbourne’s culture and hosts a ton of different events throughout the year including festivals, theatre, dance, music and visual arts. It is also home to one of Australia’s oldest architectural firms, Bates Smart.
In the surrounding areas you can visit renowned wineries, charming coastal towns and natural hot springs. And just a short drive away, nature lovers can see wildlife in the wild and take part in an array of sports. Australian rules football (“footy”), the Melbourne Cup horse race and the Australian Open tennis are highlights of the sports calendar.
Canberra
Canberra is a cosmopolitan capital with an impressive array of museums and attractions. It also has a great dining and bar scene, including sophisticated inner-city bars and quirky cafes. You’ll find plenty of outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions and stunning natural landscapes, making it no wonder that the city was ranked third on Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel—Top Cities’ list for 2018.
The city has been planned out to the last detail, with Lake Burley Griffin and an assortment of impressive buildings. It’s a great place to relax in nature, with sweeping green parks and nature reserves surrounded by mountains. It’s also known for its spectacular events, from the annual Floriade flower festival to the parliamentary fireworks show.
Explore the history of Australia in the nation’s capital, where you can learn about democracy in action at Parliament House. Or, visit one of the many galleries, where you can see Aboriginal artworks alongside international exhibitions. For a night out, you can sip a craft beer at Braddon’s BentSpoke Brewing Co or head to the booming wine region.
Perth
The city of Perth is a popular tourist destination for those seeking a tranquil escape from the crowded cities of Sydney and Melbourne. The quiet city is home to an impressive population of ethnically diverse residents, including many people from England and India. Its close proximity to Asia makes it a hub for international businesses, which is why the city has been named the world’s most liveable city several times.
Nature lovers will love the beaches of Perth. You can surf the waves on Cottesloe Beach or swim among the calm waters at Trigg Beach. The city is also surrounded by sand dunes and rocky beaches, such as the famous Black Diamond Beach.
Foodies can enjoy the booming culinary scene of Perth. The locals invented the hamdog, a fun food hybrid that combines a sandwich and a hot dog. The city is also home to several breweries, such as the award-winning Little Creatures and the Old Brewery.