Start your trip by exploring the iconic city of Sydney. In the morning, visit the Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating architecture. In the afternoon, head to Taronga Zoo and get up close to Australian wildlife. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along Darling Harbour and enjoy dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants.
Sydney Opera House: AUD 40, 2 hours
Taronga Zoo: AUD 47, 4 hours
Darling Harbour: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria. This popular cafe offers a range of breakfast options including fresh pastries, hearty breakfast bowls, and gourmet sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For lunch, head to Pancakes on the Rocks in The Rocks area. This family-friendly restaurant specializes in fluffy pancakes with a variety of sweet and savory toppings. They also serve burgers, salads, and pasta dishes. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Hurricanes Grill. This renowned steakhouse is known for their mouthwatering ribs and juicy steaks. They also offer a selection of seafood dishes and vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Thursday December 21: Great Barrier Reef
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the Great Barrier Reef. In the morning, take a scenic flight to Cairns and then hop on a boat to explore the stunning underwater world of the reef. Enjoy snorkeling, diving, and observing vibrant marine life. As the evening approaches, relax on the beach and witness a breathtaking sunset.
Flight to Cairns: AUD 200, 3 hours
Great Barrier Reef tour: AUD 250, 8 hours
Beach time: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Chambers, a cozy café serving a delicious selection of freshly baked pastries, hearty breakfast bowls, and specialty coffees. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For lunch, try Raw + Rice, a vibrant eatery offering fresh and healthy poke bowls packed with flavors and local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For dinner, visit Salt House, a waterfront restaurant renowned for its modern Australian cuisine. Indulge in dishes like grilled local Barramundi fillet or slow-cooked pork belly with panoramic views of the marina. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Friday December 22: Gold Coast
Head to the vibrant Gold Coast for a day filled with fun and excitement. In the morning, visit Warner Bros. Movie World and experience thrilling rides and entertainment. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful beaches and try your hand at surfing. As the evening sets in, enjoy dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants along Surfers Paradise.
Warner Bros. Movie World: AUD 79, 6 hours
Surfing lesson: AUD 50, 2 hours
Dinner at Surfers Paradise: AUD 30, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café DBar, a cozy beachside cafe with stunning views of the ocean. Enjoy their delicious avocado smash on sourdough toast. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a tasty lunch option, head to Betty’s Burgers & Concrete Co. Indulge in their mouth-watering classic cheeseburger with crispy fries. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For dinner, dine at Hurricane’s Grill, known for their famous flame-grilled ribs. Savor the smoky flavors and tender meat while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Saturday December 23: Melbourne
Explore the cultural hub of Melbourne. In the morning, wander through the bustling Queen Victoria Market, known for its fresh produce and eclectic stalls. In the afternoon, visit the Melbourne Zoo and encounter various animal species. As the evening approaches, take a stroll along the Yarra River and enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.
Queen Victoria Market: Free, 3 hours
Melbourne Zoo: AUD 38, 4 hours
Yarra River walk: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, grab a bite at Hardware Societe, known for its delicious and innovative brunch options. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For lunch, head to Cumulus Inc., a popular restaurant offering a range of modern Australian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
For dinner, dine at Supernormal, a contemporary Asian restaurant that serves up a fusion of flavors in a stylish setting. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Sunday December 24: Blue Mountains
Escape the city and venture into the breathtaking Blue Mountains. In the morning, take a scenic train ride to Katoomba and explore the stunning natural beauty of the region, including the iconic Three Sisters rock formation. In the afternoon, go hiking on one of the many trails and discover hidden waterfalls. As the evening sets in, enjoy a cozy dinner in one of the charming mountain villages.
Train to Katoomba: AUD 10, 2 hours
Blue Mountains exploration: Free, 6 hours
Dinner in a mountain village: AUD 40, 2 hours
Restaurants
The Blue Duck Cafe is a popular breakfast spot offering delicious meals with stunning views of the Blue Mountains. An average meal here costs about $15 per person.
The Carrington Hotel is a historic landmark known for its elegant dining experience. Enjoy a delicious lunch here while soaking in the old-world charm. An average meal here costs about $25 per person.
The Boiler House Restaurant is set in a restored industrial building and offers a unique dining experience with a modern Australian menu. Indulge in a dinner here, where an average meal costs about $35 per person.
Monday December 25: Brisbane
Spend Christmas in the vibrant city of Brisbane. In the morning, visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and cuddle a koala. In the afternoon, take a relaxing river cruise along the Brisbane River and enjoy the scenic views. As the evening approaches, explore the South Bank Parklands and indulge in a festive Christmas dinner.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: AUD 42, 4 hours
Brisbane River cruise: AUD 30, 2 hours
South Bank Parklands: Free, 3 hours
Restaurants
Sweet Treats Cafe: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Sweet Treats Cafe, located in the heart of Brisbane. Indulge in their mouthwatering pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Riverbar & Kitchen: For lunch, head to Riverbar & Kitchen, a waterfront restaurant with stunning views of the Brisbane River. Try their fish and chips or gourmet burgers. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
The Bavarian: Treat yourself to a scrumptious dinner at The Bavarian, a traditional German restaurant in Brisbane. Feast on bratwurst, pretzels, and schnitzels while enjoying a cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Tuesday December 26: Cairns
End your trip with a day of adventure in Cairns. In the morning, visit the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and relax by the tropical pool. In the afternoon, take a thrilling ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and enjoy panoramic views of the rainforest. As the evening sets in, explore the night markets and savor local delicacies.
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon: Free, 3 hours
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: AUD 71, 4 hours
Night markets: Varies, 2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Coco: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Coco, known for their fresh and healthy menu. Enjoy options like avocado toast, acai bowls, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Sushi Train: For a quick and satisfying lunch, head to Sushi Train where you can choose from a wide variety of freshly made sushi rolls. Enjoy the interactive experience of picking your favorite dishes from the moving conveyor belt. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Ochre Restaurant: Indulge in a fine dining experience at Ochre Restaurant, known for its innovative Australian cuisine. Delight your taste buds with dishes like crocodile spring rolls or kangaroo fillet. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique family-friendly experience, venture to Phillip Island near Melbourne and witness the famous Penguin Parade, where adorable little penguins come ashore every evening. Another hidden gem is the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland, where you can explore the world's oldest rainforest and spot fascinating wildlife. Both of these attractions offer unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
For hotel and flight bookings, check out Kayak.com.