After arriving, settle into your accommodation then ease into Sydney with a gentle stroll through The Royal Botanic Garden, enjoying harbour views and a coffee at the Calyx Cafe as you acclimatise. Continue with a relaxed walk along the nearby Mrs Macquaries Point lookout for iconic skyline photos, then pop into the nearby Art Gallery of New South Wales for a quick sampler of Australian art before lunch.
Head to the lively waterfront precinct of Circular Quay to watch ferries come and go, then stroll over to the nearby historic The Rocks for narrow laneways, boutique galleries and a late-afternoon drink at a rooftop bar like The Glenmore with harbour views. Finish with an easy harbour cruise or a short ferry to Barangaroo Reserve to catch sunset light on the skyline and sample modern Australian small plates at one of the waterfront restaurants.
As dusk falls, wander to Barangaroo House for a pre-dinner drink on the terrace, then take a short riverside stroll to Dawes Point Park to admire harbour lights and the illuminated bridge from a quieter vantage. For dinner, head to Chinatown for lively Asian flavours-try a modern dumpling bar or Cantonese roast at Spice Alley-then finish with nightcaps at the stylish rooftop The Ternary overlooking Darling Harbour.
Begin your morning with a guided backstage tour of the Sydney Opera House to learn about its architecture and hear stories from performers, then step out onto the forecourt for photos with the sails and harbour. From there, walk across to Milsons Point via the waterfront promenade and catch a short climb up to Luna Park's vantage areas for playful skyline views, finishing with a relaxed brunch at the charming riverside The Butler Potts Point (or a similar café nearby) to fuel the afternoon.
After your Opera House and Luna Park morning, wander to Barangaroo South for a waterfront lunch at one of the casual eateries, then follow the scenic foreshore walk to Walsh Bay to explore renovated wharf galleries and artisan bakeries. Continue with a guided climb of the historic Pylon Lookout for closer views of the Harbour Bridge and harbour panorama, then relax with a craft beer or cocktail at Campbells Stores while watching ferries glide past.
As twilight falls, stroll through Circular Quay West and catch a ferry to Watsons Bay for golden-hued harbour views, then dine on fresh seafood at the iconic Doyles on the Beach or the relaxed Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel. After dinner, return to the city for cocktails in the intimate, speakeasy-style Eau de Vie or enjoy live jazz and a nightcap at The Basement, soaking up Sydney's evening music scene.
Start with a sunrise surf lesson or beginner-friendly session at Bondi Icebergs Club to catch morning light over the ocean, then refuel with a hearty brunch and fresh juices at the popular Speedo's Café overlooking the sand. After breakfast, stroll the scenic Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, pausing to explore the rock pools at Tamarama Beach and snap coastal cliff views from the dramatic lookout at MacKenzies Point before returning to Bondi for a relaxed coffee at Gusto Espresso.
After your coastal walk, head west to the charming village of Gordons Bay for snorkelling in clear, sheltered waters and a peaceful swim among rock gardens, then stop at the seaside pub Clovelly Hotel for a late-lunch seafood plate on the terrace. Continue the afternoon with a short drive to Bronte Park to relax on the grassy slopes, explore the heritage Bronte House gardens and grab artisanal gelato from Bronte's local kiosk before watching surfers at the nearby reef break as the light softens toward evening.
As the light softens, catch a dramatic coastal sunset from North Bondi Pavilion's balcony before wandering down to the rock platforms at Ben Buckler for quieter ocean views. For dinner, head up to the relaxed terrace at Icebergs Dining Room & Bar's sister venue Bondi Trattoria for Italian share plates, then finish the night with cocktails and live DJs at the vibrant Bucket List Bondi right on the sand.
Catch an early train or join a small-group coach to the Blue Mountains, arriving in time for breakfast at Leura Village's Bakeries before heading to Wentworth Falls for the scenic waterfall walk and cliff-top lookouts. Continue with the evocative Prince Henry Cliff Walk toward Scenic World, where you can glide on the Scenic Skyway or ride the Scenic Railway for immersive views of the valley and the dramatic sandstone escarpments.
After exploring the escarpments at Scenic World, continue inland to the charming village of Leura Mall for lunch at a cosy café and browse artisan shops and galleries, then take the short drive to the peaceful gardens of Everglades Historic House & Gardens to wander Art Deco terraces and sculpted hedges. Later, head to the quieter vantage points of Govetts Leap for sweeping views over the Grose Valley and finish the afternoon with a gentle riverside stroll to Pulpit Rock Lookout, where late-afternoon light makes for dramatic photos before returning toward Sydney.
As dusk falls, unwind with a glass of local wine and platters at Leura Garage or the cosy, rustic A Stone's Throw in Leura, where you can swap daytime photos and stories with fellow travellers. After dinner, take a short drive to Sublime Point Lookout for a peaceful twilight panorama of the Jamison Valley and return toward Sydney feeling rested and full of mountain air.
Begin with a relaxed exploration of Hyde Park, strolling beneath the fig trees to the elegant ANZAC Memorial before a coffee at the leafy Hyde Park Barracks Café; then head to the nearby Australian Museum to dive into natural history and Indigenous collections with a focused highlights tour. Finish the morning with a short tram ride to Wynyard and a visit to the contemporary Museum of Contemporary Art Australia for rotating exhibitions and harbour-facing rooftop views before lunch in the area.
After a museum-filled morning, wander across to Barangaroo Reserve's waterfront promenade for lunch at the lively Banksii Vermouth Bar & Kitchen, then join a guided Aboriginal cultural walk to learn about the Cammeraygal people's connection to the harbour. In the late afternoon, take the scenic pedestrian route to Darling Harbour to visit the interactive SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium or catch a behind-the-scenes tour at the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, finishing with drinks at The Ternary Bar overlooking the water as lights come on.
As night falls, wander to Pyrmont Bay for a twilight stroll along the waterfront and board a short harbour ferry to Monorom Wharf before heading to The Star Sydney for dinner-choose between modern Australian dining at Kerri's or relaxed seafood at Flying Fish-then try your luck at the casino or catch live music in one of the venue bars. Finish the evening with a nightcap on the terrace at Ivy Pool Club or, for quieter city views, take a late-evening walk to Tumbalong Park to watch the illuminated skyline reflect in the harbour ponds.
Ease into the day with a leisurely breakfast at The Grounds of the City, then wander the colourful stalls of Paddy's Market for unique souvenirs and fresh produce tasting. Afterward, stroll through the leafy paths of Barangaroo Kiss & Ride (a quieter corner of Barangaroo Reserve) before catching the midday ferry from Circular Quay Ferry Wharf 3 to Manly for the afternoon - a gentle morning that keeps pace with your previous explorations while gearing up for the harbour crossing.
After arriving in Manly, wander the beachside Corso before renting a stand-up paddleboard or joining a guided snorkeling tour at Shelly Beach to explore calm coves and rocky reefs. Follow with a late-afternoon coffee and people-watching on the terrace at Manly Wharf Hotel, then take a short coastal walk to North Head Sanctuary for dramatic harbour lookout points and a peaceful sunset stroll along its cliff-top trails.
After your North Head stroll, take the short ferry back to the city and head to Kirribilli for dinner at a waterside bistro with bridge views - try fresh seafood and local wine at Kirribilli Club or a relaxed meal at The Botanist. Finish the night with a slow riverside walk through Milsons Park, pausing at the lookout to watch the Harbour Bridge and Opera House light up, then grab a final cocktail at the intimate waterside bar The Dockside before returning to your accommodation.
After arriving in Melbourne and dropping bags at your hotel, ease into the city with a relaxed brunch at Hardware Société, savouring their famous baked eggs and coffee while planning the day's orientation. Follow that with a gentle riverside wander along the Yarra River Promenade, popping into the boutique shops of Southbank Promenade and pausing at Evan Walker Bridge for skyline photos before a restorative visit to the leafy Fitzroy Gardens to stretch your legs and absorb Melbourne's calmer side.
After arriving and settling in, head to Federation Square to orient yourself with the city and grab a casual lunch at Riverland Bar overlooking the Yarra, then pop into the nearby Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia for a quick dive into Australian art highlights. Later, wander through the vivid street-art pocket of Hosier Lane, then explore the hidden shopping arcades of Block Arcade and enjoy an afternoon espresso and sweet treat at the historic Hopetoun Tea Rooms before a short rest at your hotel to prepare for the evening laneways.
After a day of travel and afternoon orientation, dive into Melbourne's nocturnal culinary scene with dinner at Cumulus Inc., followed by a cocktail at the craft-focused Black Pearl for inventive drinks and a relaxed bar vibe. Continue your laneway evening discovering hidden bars and late-night street art in AC/DC Lane and Union Lane, pausing for a dessert at the intimate Brunetti on Lygon Street or an espresso at the atmospheric Degraves Espresso Bar before a gentle riverside stroll back to Southbank.
Begin with a hearty brunch at Manchester Press in the vibrant Emporium precinct, then wander through the nearby laneways to discover colourful murals and independent boutiques in Centre Place and Degraves Alley for great people-watching and coffee culture. Afterward, stroll north to the historic Royal Arcade to admire its timber shopfronts and the mythical Gaunt's Clock, before heading to Flagstaff Gardens for a peaceful pause among heritage trees and a chance to watch locals practising tai chi or walking their dogs.
Venture from the market to the riverside precinct and board the historic Puffing Billy-style heritage tram experience along the scenic St Kilda Road stretch, then step off to explore the lush sculptures and fountains of Alexandra Gardens before a riverside lunch at Arbory Bar & Eatery. After eating, wander through the creative bustle of South Melbourne Market for gourmet tastings and specialty food stalls, then take a short tram to the elegant Koorie Heritage Trust for a focused Indigenous art and cultural display that deepens your understanding of Victoria's First Peoples.
As twilight falls, enjoy modern Australian flavors with a relaxed dinner at Chin Chin, then wander toward the riverside to catch live music and seasonal menus at The Boatbuilders Yard under the city lights. Finish with a nightcap and rooftop views at Rooftop at QT or a late dessert tasting flight at the quirky dessert bar Bibelot in Southbank, taking a leisurely riverside stroll back past illuminated bridges to complete the day.
Set off early from Melbourne and head southwest to begin your coastal journey with a sunrise coffee stop at Bells Beach Surf Coast, watching local surfers carve the morning swell before continuing along the scenic route. Pause at Anglesea Coastal Walk for cliff-top views and a short boardwalk stroll, then arrive at Point Addis Marine National Park to explore tidal rock pools and a guided short coastal nature walk that introduces you to native coastal flora and birdlife before lunch.
After a morning along the surf-coast, continue westward to the dramatic cliff-top viewpoints of The Twelve Apostles and linger for postcard-ready photos, then take the short walk down to Gibson Steps to feel the scale of the limestone stacks from the beach. Follow with a scenic stop at Loch Ard Gorge to explore its sheltered coves, learn the site's shipwreck history on the interpretive trail, and finish with a late-afternoon coffee and local seafood tasting at the seaside village of Port Campbell before the return drive toward Melbourne.
Slow the pace as dusk approaches with a seafood-focused dinner at Twelve Apostles Lodge Restaurant or head into the nearby town centre for a cosy meal at Forage Restaurant in Port Campbell, sampling local scallops and Gippsland lamb. After dinner, take a twilight stroll to Bay of Islands Coastal Park for a quieter sunset vantage point and end the night stargazing from the dark-sky lookout near The Arch before the return drive to Melbourne.
Begin with specialty coffee and a light brunch at Industry Beans in Fitzroy, then wander the creative streets to discover indie bookshops and vintage finds along Nicholson Street Market and the mural-lined laneways around Rose Street Artists' Market for a lively arts-and-design start. Continue to nearby Princes Park for a relaxed stroll among sport fields and plane trees before hopping a tram down to St Kilda for an easy mid-morning seaside change of pace.
After your Fitzroy morning, head south to the eclectic seaside suburb of St Kilda and start with people-watching and pastries on the sun-drenched terrace of Acland Street Bakery, then stroll the foreshore toward the historic St Kilda Pier for close-up views of the bay and the city skyline. Continue with a relaxed visit to the leafy lawns and chalet-lined paths of Catani Gardens, rent a pedal boat at St Kilda Sea Baths or try a beginner kite-surfing lesson off St Kilda Beach, and finish the afternoon with a hot chocolate or craft beer at the waterside Prince of Wales Hotel before your evening plans.
As twilight falls, wander to Luna Park St Kilda's historic esplanade for playful seaside lights and boardwalk atmosphere, then step into nearby Republica St Kilda Beach for a relaxed beachfront cocktail with live-acoustic sets. For dinner, savour modern bistro fare and local seafood at Donovans, followed by late-night gelato and a moonlit stroll along the pier to spot little penguins returning to the breakwater.
If you choose Phillip Island, start with a wildlife-focused morning at Koala Conservation Reserve, strolling elevated boardwalks to spot sleepy koalas, then head to Churchill Island Heritage Farm for hands-on farming demonstrations and a sea-swept coastal walk. Alternatively in the Yarra Valley, begin with a cellar-door tasting at Domaine Chandon followed by a guided vineyard tour at Yering Station where you can learn about cool-climate viticulture before a leisurely brunch on the terraces overlooking the vines.
If you're on Phillip Island, spend the afternoon exploring the rugged coastline at Cape Woolamai, hiking the sculpted Cape Woolamai Trail for dramatic sea-cliff views, then visit the nearby Rhyll Inlet for birdwatching and a relaxed seafood lunch at The Anchorage Restaurant before a scenic drive past the seal colony at Pyramid Rock. If you chose the Yarra Valley, continue a slow vineyard crawl with a long lunch and paired tasting at Oakridge Wines, followed by a cellar-door tour and olive-oil tasting at Yarra Valley Olives, finishing with a late-afternoon chocolate and cheese pairing at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery while you watch the valley light soften over the vines.
If you're on Phillip Island, unwind after a day of coastal hikes with a sunset seafood feast at The Foreshore Bar & Restaurant in Rhyll, then join a guided nocturnal boardwalk at Pyramid Rock Coastal Reserve to watch seals and shorebirds in the dusk. If you chose the Yarra Valley, linger over a long, shared dinner and regional wine flight at Healesville's Innocent Bystander before capping the night with a stargazing session and fortified-wine tasting on the terrace at De Bortoli's Noble-1 Cellar.
For a relaxed final morning, wander the riverside walk to Southbank Promenade for a light breakfast at The Kettle Black terrace and a final people-watching coffee by the Yarra. Then stroll through the nearby sculpture-lined lawns of Kings Domain to visit the fragrant Zecca Italian Marketplace for last-minute edible gifts, finishing with a quick lookout from Shrine of Remembrance's balcony for sweeping city and parkland views before heading to the airport.
Spend a relaxed afternoon discovering the leafy precinct around Fitzroy Gardens Conservatory, then wander east to the nearby boutique-lined Collins Street arcades for last-minute shopping and chic souvenir finds. Finish with a riverside late lunch and glass of local Pinot at South Wharf's Cargo Restaurant & Bar, then stroll the quay to the contemporary Melbourne Convention Centre waterfront for a final skyline photo before you head to the airport.
Spend a gentle final evening exploring the elegant riverside precinct of New Quay Docklands, where you can stroll the marina and enjoy sunset reflections over the water before dinner at the seasonal Balthazar Dining Room. Afterwards, wander to the atmospheric precinct of South Wharf Promenade for a last soak of city lights and finish with cocktails and a view at The Boatbuilders Yard, savouring one last Melbourne skyline moment before your transfer to the airport.