Plantrip
Sign In
Home
Tools
Create Itinerary
Step-by-Step Builder
Packing List
Travel Expert
Trip Cost Estimator
Weather Expert
Deals
Guides
Pricing
About
About Plantrip
News
Partner Dispatches
Help
Travel Glossary
Sign In
Home
1-Month Ultimate Australia Tour: Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, and a Week at the Great Barrier Reef
Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Get new itinerary
Initializing...
0%
Cancel
Step 1 Outline Preview:
PDF
Share
Post
Copy URL
Email this itinerary to someone...
Send Email
1-Month Ultimate Australia Tour: Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, and a Week at the Great Barrier Reef
Viewed by 107 travelers
Save This Itinerary
Share
Day 1: Melbourne Arrival
Melbourne, Australia on July 12, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Hardware Société
Start your trip with a French-inspired breakfast at one of Melbourne’s iconic cafes, famous for delicate pastries and egg dishes.
AUD25, 1h
9:30am
Federation Square & Flinders Street Station
Explore Melbourne’s cultural heart and snap photos at this architectural and historic landmark cluster.
Free, 1h
11:00am
National Gallery of Victoria
Observe Australian and international art collections in the country’s oldest public art museum.
Free entry; exhibitions may vary, 2h
1:30pm
Lunch at Chin Chin
Enjoy vibrant, trendy Thai meals in a buzzing ambiance beloved by locals and visitors alike.
AUD35, 1h30m
3:30pm
Royal Botanic Gardens Walk
Wander through serene gardens featuring native plants and mesmerizing city views.
Free, 1h30m
6:30pm
Dinner at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Indulge in historic-inspired gourmet Australian dishes crafted by a world-renowned chef. Secure reservations ahead.
AUD150, 2h
Find Hotels in Melbourne
Day 2: Melbourne Culture
Melbourne, Australia on July 13, 2025
8:30am
Breakfast at Proud Mary
Sip some of Melbourne’s best specialty coffee accompanied by a robust breakfast menu.
AUD20, 1h
9:30am
Melbourne Museum
Discover natural history, indigenous culture, and fascinating exhibitions within this family-friendly museum.
AUD15, 2h
12:00pm
Lunch at Lune Croissanterie
Taste world-class croissants and bakery delights at this famed Melbourne spot.
AUD15, 45m
1:00pm
Street Art Laneway Tour
Explore colorful laneways like Hosier Lane guided by expert storytellers explaining Melbourne’s street art scene.
AUD30, 2h
4:00pm
St Kilda Beach Sunset
Relax beachside, stroll the pier, and watch a classic Australian sunset.
Free, 2h
7:00pm
Dinner at Claypots Seafood Bar
Enjoy casual dining focused on fresh, local seafood in a friendly atmosphere.
AUD60, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Melbourne
Day 3: More Melbourne
Melbourne, Australia on July 14, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at The Kettle Black
Enjoy a modern take on breakfast classics with beautiful presentation in a vibrant setting.
AUD25, 1h
9:30am
Day trip to Yarra Valley
Visit wineries, enjoy cellar door tastings, and savor delicious regional produce. This is a full day out but worth the experience.
AUD120 including tastings, 8h
7:30pm
Dinner at Movida
End your day with exquisite Spanish cuisine from one of Melbourne’s most acclaimed tapas bars.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Melbourne
Day 4: Travel to Brisbane
Melbourne to Brisbane, Australia on July 15, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Hardware Société
Have a final Melbourne breakfast before heading to the airport.
AUD25, 1h
10:00am
Flight to Brisbane
Take a roughly 2.5-hour flight to Brisbane, ready for more Australian adventures.
AUD150, 2h30m
1:00pm
Lunch at Eat Street Northshore
Explore an impressive array of international street food stalls in a lively market setting.
AUD30, 1h30m
3:00pm
South Bank Parklands
Enjoy gardens, riverside paths, markets, and cultural spots in Brisbane’s premier leisure precinct.
Free, 2h
7:00pm
Dinner at Stokehouse Q
Experience modern Australian dining with superb river views and a sophisticated menu.
AUD70, 2h
Find Hotels in Melbourne to Brisbane
Day 5: Brisbane Wildlife & Urban Life
Brisbane, Australia on July 16, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at King Arthur Café
Enjoy creative breakfast dishes and specialty coffee in a lively neighborhood setting.
AUD20, 1h
9:30am
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Spend time with Australia’s unique wildlife, hold a koala, and feed kangaroos in this renowned sanctuary.
AUD40, 3h
1:00pm
Lunch at The Charming Squire
Relax with hearty pub-style meals and craft beers in a welcoming atmosphere.
AUD35, 1h
2:30pm
Brisbane Riverwalk
Take an easy riverside walk soaking up views and city ambiance.
Free, 1h30m
5:00pm
Mount Coot-tha Lookout
Drive or hike up for expansive city and mountain vistas. Perfect for sunset watching.
Free, 2h
7:30pm
Dinner at e’cco Bistro
Enjoy award-winning modern Australian dishes with a French influence in an elegant setting.
AUD100, 2h
Find Hotels in Brisbane
Day 6: Brisbane to Sydney
Brisbane to Sydney, Australia on July 17, 2025
7:30am
Breakfast at Brew Café, West End
Have specialty coffee and fresh, light breakfast before your flight.
AUD20, 1h
9:00am
Flight to Sydney
Fly about 1.5 hours to Sydney to begin your city exploration.
AUD130, 2h
12:00pm
Lunch at The Grounds of Alexandria
Dine in beautifully rustic surroundings known for fresh, seasonal fare and a garden vibe.
AUD35, 1h30m
2:00pm
Sydney Opera House Tour
Get an insider’s look at this iconic structure and learn about its architectural significance.
AUD45, 1h
3:30pm
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Relax in lush gardens with superb views over Sydney Harbour and the Opera House.
Free, 1h30m
6:30pm
Dinner at Quay Restaurant
Savor exquisite fine dining with panoramic harbour views in one of Australia’s top restaurants.
AUD200, 2h
Find Hotels in Brisbane to Sydney
Day 7: Sydney Landmarks
Sydney, Australia on July 18, 2025
7:30am
Breakfast at Billy Kwong
Begin the day with fresh, Asian-inspired breakfast creations by a celebrity chef.
AUD25, 1h
9:00am
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
Join a guided climb to the top for unforgettable views of Sydney Harbour. Book well in advance.
AUD320, 3h
1:30pm
Lunch at The Butler, Potts Point
Enjoy relaxed dining with spectacular harbour views in stylish surroundings.
AUD40, 1h
3:00pm
Explore The Rocks
Wander historic laneways filled with markets, galleries, and heritage buildings.
Free, 2h
6:00pm
Dinner at Mr. Wong
Dine on top-quality Cantonese cuisine in a lively, modern setting close to Circular Quay.
AUD80, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Sydney
Day 8: Sydney Leisure
Sydney, Australia on July 19, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Bourke Street Bakery
Savor artisan bakery treats and great coffee to start your relaxed city day.
AUD15, 1h
9:30am
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
Enjoy stunning ocean views as you hike this iconic six-kilometer coastal trail filled with beaches and parks.
Free, 3h
1:00pm
Lunch at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar
Dine with oceanfront views offering upscale modern cuisine at the end of Bondi Beach.
AUD60, 1h30m
3:00pm
Relax at Sydney Beaches or Taronga Zoo Visit
Option to unwind at a local beach or visit Taronga Zoo by ferry to see native and exotic animals.
AUD48 (zoo entry), 3h
7:00pm
Casual Dinner at The Glenmore Hotel
Enjoy rooftop bar views and casual pub fare in The Rocks to cap off your day.
AUD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Sydney
Day 9: Sydney to Cairns
Sydney to Cairns, Australia on July 20, 2025
7:00am
Breakfast at Brewtown Newtown
Grab coffee and fresh pastries before your flight north.
AUD15, 30m
9:00am
Flight from Sydney to Cairns
Fly approximately 3 hours to tropical Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
AUD180, 3h
12:30pm
Lunch at Ochre Restaurant
Sample native Australian ingredients prepared with a modern twist at Cairns’ premier eatery.
AUD50, 1h30m
2:00pm
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Relax and swim in this tropical saltwater lagoon with excellent facilities, perfect for unwinding after travel.
Free, 1h30m
7:00pm
Dinner at Salt House
Enjoy waterfront dining with fresh seafood and stylish modern Australian cuisine.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Sydney to Cairns
Day 10: Great Barrier Reef Week Start
Cairns, Australia on July 21, 2025
7:00am
Breakfast at hotel
Prepare for your week-long reef adventure with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel.
Included, 1h
8:00am
Day 1: Outer Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour
Join a full-day tour to outer reef locations with snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, and onboard lunch included. Tours operate 8am-5pm.
AUD250, 9h
7:00pm
Dinner at The Rusty Inn Seafood
Relax and refuel with casual seafood fare after your first day exploring the reef.
AUD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns
Day 11: Great Barrier Reef Exploration
Cairns, Australia on July 22, 2025
7:00am
Breakfast at hotel
Fuel up early for another exciting day on the reef.
Included, 1h
8:30am
Day 2: Certified Dive or Snorkel Trip
Dive deeper or snorkel in a different part of the reef to explore stunning coral and marine life. Includes training and equipment.
AUD280, 9h
7:30pm
Dinner at Dundee's Restaurant on the Waterfront
Enjoy fine seafood and steak dining with waterfront views to wind down your day.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns
Day 12: Great Barrier Reef Leisure
Cairns, Australia on July 23, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Caffiend
Delight in specialty coffee and innovative breakfast dishes to start a more relaxed day.
AUD20, 1h
10:00am
Half-day snorkel or glass-bottom boat trip
Take a shorter reef excursion focusing on relaxation and scenic views of the coral ecosystem.
AUD150, 5h
4:00pm
Rest and explore Cairns town
Wander Cairns’ cultural precinct, shops, and waterfront at your leisure.
Free, 2h
7:00pm
Dinner at Ochre Restaurant
Relish refined modern Australian cuisine highlighting indigenous ingredients.
AUD60, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns
Day 13: Great Barrier Reef & Marine Education
Cairns, Australia on July 24, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at hotel
Prepare for an educational and interactive marine day.
Included, 1h
9:00am
Visit Cairns Aquarium and Reef HQ
Immerse yourself in marine life exhibits and learn about reef conservation and habitats.
AUD40, 3h
12:30pm
Lunch at Nu Nu Restaurant, Palm Cove
Enjoy a fresh tropical lunch with a beachside vibe just north of Cairns.
AUD50, 1h30m
2:30pm
Afternoon introduction to diving course
Begin a multi-day PADI introductory dive course to expand your reef experience.
AUD200, 4h
7:30pm
Dinner at Salt House
Relax with elegant dining close to the marina.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns
Day 14: Diving & Reef Immersion
Cairns, Australia on July 25, 2025
7:00am
Breakfast at hotel
Fuel for another exciting day diving the Great Barrier Reef.
Included, 1h
8:00am
PADI Dive Course – Open Water Training
Continue your dive certification with classroom and practical sessions on equipment and safety.
AUD200, 8h
7:00pm
Dinner at Dundee’s Restaurant
Celebrate your progress with a delicious meal in a scenic waterfront location.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns
Day 15: Great Barrier Reef Diving
Cairns, Australia on July 26, 2025
7:00am
Breakfast at hotel
Prep for your certified open water dive experience on the reef.
Included, 1h
8:00am
Certified Open Water Dive Tour
Take guided dives on diverse reef sites, discovering vibrant underwater life and coral formations.
AUD280, 9h
7:00pm
Dinner at The Raw Prawn
Enjoy fresh seafood and local flavors in a casual yet stylish restaurant.
AUD60, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns
Day 16: Great Barrier Reef Leisure
Cairns, Australia on July 27, 2025
8:30am
Breakfast at Caffiend
Casual breakfast with great coffee and tasty options before a relax day.
AUD20, 1h
10:00am
Day at Palm Cove Beach
Spend the day unwinding on this beautiful beach with calm waters and excellent facilities.
Free, Whole day
7:00pm
Dinner at Nu Nu Restaurant
Enjoy tropical-themed dining by the beach to end your relaxing day.
AUD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns
Day 17: Daintree Rainforest Excursion
Cairns, Australia on July 28, 2025
6:30am
Breakfast at hotel
Early start for an adventurous day in the world’s oldest tropical rainforest.
Included, 1h
7:30am
Full-Day Daintree and Cape Tribulation Tour
Explore lush rainforest, unique wildlife, and the famous reef-rainforest meeting point. Includes guided walks, lunch, and transport.
AUD220, 10h
7:00pm
Dinner at Cairns Night Markets
Casual dining by the markets with a variety of local and Asian food stalls to choose from.
AUD30, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns
Day 18: Great Barrier Reef Final Days
Cairns, Australia on July 29, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at hotel
Breakfast at leisure preparing for your last days at the reef.
Included, 1h
9:30am
Scenic Helicopter Reef Flight
Take stunning aerial views of the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding tropical landscapes. Flights operate daily 9am-5pm.
AUD300, 1h
11:00am
Leisure time in Cairns
Enjoy cafes, shopping, and local culture with free time in Cairns city.
Free, Afternoon
7:00pm
Farewell Dinner at Ochre Restaurant
Celebrate the end of your Australian adventure with a meal highlighting native flavors and fine wines.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns
Day 19: Cairns Departure
Cairns, Australia on July 30, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at hotel
Enjoy your last breakfast, reflecting on your month-long Australian journey.
Included, 1h
11:00am
Flight to Melbourne or next destination
Catch your return flight or onward travel from Cairns Airport.
AUD180, 3h
Find Hotels in Cairns
Day 20: Free Exploration or Rest
Melbourne, Australia on July 31, 2025
All day
Open day in Melbourne
Use this free day to rest, shop, or explore any missed attractions at your own pace.
Varies, Flexible
Find Hotels in Melbourne
Day 21: Additional Melbourne Activities
Melbourne, Australia on August 1, 2025
9:00am
Morning Coffee at Seven Seeds
Taste great coffee at one of Melbourne’s specialty roasters with a relaxed atmosphere.
AUD15, 1h
10:30am
Visit Queen Victoria Market
Shop for local produce, souvenirs, and gourmet food in this historic market open Tues and Sat.
Free, 2h
1:00pm
Lunch at Hardware Societe
Enjoy a final Melbourne brunch with delicious European fares in a relaxed setting.
AUD25, 1h
2:30pm
Visit Eureka Skydeck
See sweeping city views from the southern hemisphere’s highest observation deck.
AUD25, 1h
Find Hotels in Melbourne
Day 22: Melbourne to Brisbane Revisit
Melbourne to Brisbane, Australia on August 2, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Brother Baba Budan
Enjoy one of Melbourne’s best coffees and light breakfast options for a good start to travel day.
AUD15, 1h
10:00am
Flight to Brisbane
Fly to Brisbane for a second chance to explore or relax in Queensland’s capital.
AUD150, 2h30m
1:00pm
Lunch at Gerard's Bistro
Sample a mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean inspired dishes at this contemporary restaurant.
AUD50, 1h30m
3:00pm
Visit Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)
Discover world-class contemporary and indigenous art collections in a beautiful cultural precinct.
Free entry, 2h
7:00pm
Dinner at Stokehouse Q
Enjoy classic Australian flavors with stunning riverside views to end your day.
AUD70, 2h
Find Hotels in Melbourne to Brisbane
Day 23: Relax and Enjoy Brisbane
Brisbane, Australia on August 3, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Brew Café West End
Relaxed breakfast with some of Brisbane’s finest specialty coffee.
AUD20, 1h
10:00am
City Botanic Gardens Visit
Enjoy walking paths and native flora in this centrally located garden space with river views.
Free, 2h
12:30pm
Lunch at Gerard’s Bistro
Try their innovative seasonal dishes again or explore new menu items in a vibrant atmosphere.
AUD50, 1h30m
2:30pm
Relax in West End
Explore the funky shops, book stores, and cafes in this eclectic neighborhood.
Free, 2h
7:00pm
Dinner at Alchemy Restaurant and Bar
Experience stunning riverside views with modern Australian cuisine to finish your day.
AUD70, 2h
Find Hotels in Brisbane
Day 24: Travel back to Sydney
Brisbane to Sydney, Australia on August 4, 2025
7:30am
Breakfast at King Arthur Café
One last breakfast in Brisbane before flying to Sydney.
AUD20, 1h
9:30am
Flight to Sydney
Fly approximately 1.5 hours to Sydney for your second city stay.
AUD130, 2h
12:00pm
Lunch at The Grounds of Alexandria
Return to this beautifully set café for fresh and seasonal fare in relaxed surroundings.
AUD35, 1h30m
2:00pm
Bondi Beach Visit or Relaxation
Enjoy time on Sydney’s most famous beach, either relaxing or taking a casual stroll.
Free, 2h
6:00pm
Dinner at The Apollo
Taste contemporary Greek cuisine in a trendy and lively location in Potts Point.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Brisbane to Sydney
Day 25: Sydney Day Trip
Sydney, Australia on August 5, 2025
7:30am
Breakfast at Devotion Coffee
Start strong with specialty coffee and breakfast in a cozy café.
AUD20, 1h
9:00am
Blue Mountains Day Trip
Depart early for a guided tour to the Blue Mountains, visiting scenic lookouts and cultural sites. Return by evening.
AUD150, 10h
7:30pm
Dinner at Felix Bar and Bistro
Relax with modern Australian cuisine in a stylish waterfront location after your day trip.
AUD80, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Sydney
Day 26: Sydney Leisure Day
Sydney, Australia on August 6, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Single O
Enjoy specialty coffee and wholesome breakfast options to begin your easy-going day.
AUD20, 1h
10:00am
Visit Art Gallery of NSW
Discover comprehensive collections spanning Aboriginal art, contemporary works, and historical pieces.
Free, 2h
12:30pm
Lunch at Cafe Sydney
Dine with great views from this iconic rooftop venue featuring modern Australian food.
AUD60, 1h30m
2:30pm
Free afternoon to shop or stroll The Rocks
Take your time exploring markets, galleries, and historic laneways at your own pace.
Free, Afternoon
7:00pm
Dinner at Tetsuya’s
Celebrate your final Sydney night with exquisite Japanese fine dining by Chef Tetsuya Wakuda. Reservations required.
AUD250, 2h
Find Hotels in Sydney
Day 27: Sydney to Melbourne
Sydney to Melbourne, Australia on August 7, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Paramount Coffee Project
Fuel up with artisanal coffee and inventive breakfast dishes before your flight.
AUD20, 1h
10:00am
Flight to Melbourne
Return flight to Melbourne for the last leg of your trip.
AUD130, 2h
12:30pm
Lunch at Tipo 00
Enjoy premium Italian pastas and dishes in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD.
AUD40, 1h30m
2:30pm
Visit Melbourne Zoo or Melbourne Aquarium
Choose between Australia’s premier zoo or the aquarium for fascinating wildlife experiences.
AUD40, 2h
7:00pm
Dinner at Attica
Experience one of Australia’s best restaurants with innovative, native Australian-inspired cuisine. Booking essential.
AUD250, 2h
Find Hotels in Sydney to Melbourne
Day 28: Relax and Reflect
Melbourne, Australia on August 8, 2025
8:30am
Breakfast at Higher Ground
Enjoy creative breakfast offerings with a buzzing atmosphere near the city center.
AUD25, 1h
10:00am
Day trip to Great Ocean Road
Embark on a guided tour of the famous Great Ocean Road, visiting iconic scenery like the Twelve Apostles. Full-day adventure.
AUD150, 10h
8:30pm
Casual Dinner in Melbourne CBD
Opt for a casual meal in one of Melbourne’s trendy eateries upon return.
AUD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Melbourne
Day 29: Final Melbourne Day
Melbourne, Australia on August 9, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Market Lane Coffee
Taste exceptional coffee with inviting seasonal breakfast dishes.
AUD20, 1h
9:30am
Explore Fitzroy Neighborhood
Spend the morning strolling through this bohemian area, full of vintage shops, galleries, and cafes.
Free, 2h
12:00pm
Lunch at Vegie Bar
Savor delicious vegetarian and vegan meals in a lively and friendly environment.
AUD30, 1h
2:00pm
Visit Melbourne’s Laneway Cafés and Shops
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring boutique stores, artsy shops, and excellent coffee.
Free, 3h
7:00pm
Dinner at Supper Inn
Indulge in authentic Cantonese cuisine in Melbourne’s Chinatown to cap off your Australian trip.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Melbourne
Day 30: Departure
Melbourne, Australia on August 10, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at hotel or nearby café
Enjoy a final relaxed breakfast and prepare for your journey home.
Included or AUD20, 1h
11:00am
Transfer to Melbourne Airport
Head to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your month-long Australian adventure.
Varies, Variable
Find Hotels in Melbourne
0
Travel Requirements
Local Sayings
Connectivity Info
Nearby Shopping
Accepted Currency + Payment Types
Safety
Cultural Norms + Etiquette
Health + Medical Facilities
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
PDF
Share
Post
Copy URL
Email this itinerary to someone...
Send Email
More About Australia
Best Australia Travel Deals
Travel Deals
Trip Packing List: Australia (Late February — Southern Hemisphere late summer / cyclone season in north)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: Hong Kong (4 days) + Australia road trip Sydney→Brisbane (June–July)
Packing List
Australia Weather & Climate Guide: Year-Round Planning
Weather Guide
Full Guide to Michelin Star Cities: 2025 Updated List
Travel Expert
Global Michelin Cities & US Travel Tiers from New York
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by
Plantrip Team
July 11, 2025
AI-assisted, human-reviewed
Plan Your Australia Trip
Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go
Unlock Unlimited Trips
$2.50
/mo
Billed $30/year
Unlimited trip generations
Personalized packing lists
Extra details & local tips
Private & ad-free
Sign In to Upgrade
See all plans
Upgrade to Plus
$2.50
/mo
Billed $30/year
Unlimited trip generations
Personalized packing lists
Extra details & local tips
Private & ad-free
Sign In to Upgrade
See all plans
Sign in to save this itinerary.
Sign Up
or
Sign In
Create a Free Account
Sign up for free to keep generating itineraries!
Sign Up Free
I already have an account
Trip Locations
Share Itinerary
PDF
Share
Post
Copy URL
Email this itinerary to someone...
Send Email