How many days do you need in Australia?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Australia, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Australia?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Australia. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

5-Day City & Nature Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Australia

Day 1: City Exploration in Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia on October 7, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Degraves Street

Start your day with delicious coffee and pastries at the iconic Degraves Street, known for its charming cafes and vibrant atmosphere.

15 AUD, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Federation Square

Visit Federation Square to admire modern architecture, art galleries, and possibly catch a free event or exhibition.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Queen Victoria Market, offering a variety of food stalls with fresh local produce and multicultural cuisines.

20 AUD, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll along Yarra River

Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Yarra River, where you can enjoy views of the city skyline and relax in the riverside parks.

Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Chinatown

Head to Chinatown for an affordable and delicious dinner, offering a wide range of Asian cuisine options.

25 AUD, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 2: Nature Exploration in Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia on October 8, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fitzroy Gardens

Start your day with a peaceful breakfast in the lush greenery of Fitzroy Gardens, home to diverse plant species and historic landmarks.

10 AUD, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Royal Botanic Gardens

Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, a serene oasis in the city with beautiful landscapes, native flora, and relaxing walking paths.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Picnic at St. Kilda Beach

Pack a picnic lunch and head to St. Kilda Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the sea, watching kite surfers and enjoying the coastal views.

15 AUD, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Street Art in Hosier Lane

Discover Melbourne's vibrant street art scene in Hosier Lane, where you can admire colorful murals and graffiti artworks.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Southbank Promenade

Enjoy dinner with a view at Southbank Promenade, lined with restaurants overlooking the Yarra River and the city lights.

30 AUD, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 3: City Discovery in Sydney

Sydney, Australia on October 9, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Rocks

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Rocks, a historic area with charming cafes and views of the Sydney Harbour.

20 AUD, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Sydney Opera House

Explore the iconic Sydney Opera House, marvel at its unique architecture, and take a guided tour to learn about its history.

40 AUD, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Circular Quay

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Circular Quay, a bustling waterfront area with outdoor dining options and views of the Harbour Bridge.

25 AUD, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore The Royal Botanic Garden

Take a leisurely stroll through The Royal Botanic Garden, featuring lush greenery, colorful flowers, and scenic views of Sydney Harbour.

Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Darling Harbour

Indulge in a diverse dinner selection at Darling Harbour, known for its waterfront dining options and vibrant evening atmosphere.

35 AUD, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 4: Nature Adventure in Cairns

Cairns, Australia on October 10, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Rusty's Markets

Start your day with a tropical breakfast at Rusty's Markets, offering fresh fruits, juices, and local delicacies.

30 AUD, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kuranda Rainforest

Embark on a day trip to the nearby Kuranda Rainforest, where you can experience lush greenery, waterfalls, and wildlife in a scenic setting.

50 AUD, 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Kuranda Village

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the local eateries in Kuranda Village, surrounded by rainforest and artisan shops.

20 AUD, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Barron Gorge National Park

Explore the stunning Barron Gorge National Park, known for its rugged landscapes, waterfalls, and scenic walking trails.

10 AUD, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Cairns Esplanade

End your day with a relaxed dinner at Cairns Esplanade, where you can enjoy seafood and local Australian dishes by the waterfront.

30 AUD, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Cairns

Day 5: Great Barrier Reef Experience in Cairns

Cairns, Australia on October 11, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pier Bar

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Pier Bar, overlooking the marina and serving fresh breakfast options.

15 AUD, 1 hour

10:00AM

Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Tour

Embark on a full-day tour to the Great Barrier Reef, where you can snorkel, dive, and explore the vibrant underwater world of coral reefs.

150 AUD, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Night Markets

Enjoy a variety of affordable food options at the Cairns Night Markets, offering international cuisines, snacks, and souvenirs.

20 AUD, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Cairns

Step 1 Outline Preview:

5-Day City & Nature Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Australia

Day 1: City Exploration in Melbourne

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Nature Exploration in Melbourne

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: City Discovery in Sydney

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Nature Adventure in Cairns

8:00AM

11:00AM

3:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Great Barrier Reef Experience in Cairns

8:00AM

10:00AM

6:00PM

More About Australia

Plan Your Australia Trip