Australia on a Shoestring Budget: 6-Day Adventure

Day 1: Exploring Sydney

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bourke Street Bakery

Start your day with a scrumptious pastry and coffee at Bourke Street Bakery, cherished by locals for its delightful treats.
Walk to the bakery from your accommodation.
AUD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Walk Around Circular Quay

Stroll around Circular Quay, taking in views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
This is a short walk from the bakery.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Royal Botanic Garden

Enjoy a leisurely walk in the Royal Botanic Garden, a serene green oasis right next to the CBD with stunning harbor views.
Head along Macquarie Street to the entrance.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Eat Street

Grab a budget-friendly lunch at Eat Street, where street vendors offer delicious options from all over the world.
Walk towards the nearby food stalls.
AUD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Free Walking Tour

Join a free walking tour to explore more of Sydney's hidden gems and history, led by passionate local guides.
Check the local schedules for walking tour start points.
Free, but donations appreciated., 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Glenmore

Wrap up your day with an affordable dinner with stunning rooftop views at The Glenmore in The Rocks.
Take a short walk to this popular pub.
AUD20, 1 hour
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Day 2: Adventure in Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your lodging before heading out for your day trip.
N/A
AUD5, 1 hour

8:00AM

Train to Katoomba

Catch an early train from Sydney to Katoomba, the gateway to the Blue Mountains, while enjoying the scenic ride.
Head to Sydney Central Station for the train.
AUD10, 2 hours

10:00AM

Echo Point Lookout

Arrive at Katoomba and walk to Echo Point Lookout for breathtaking views of the Three Sisters rock formation.
Follow the signs from the train station.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Hiking the Scenic World

Embark on a hike on the well-marked trails of Scenic World that intertwine through the lush scenery.
Purchase a day pass at Scenic World.
AUD35, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Katoomba Street Cafe

Recharge with hearty sandwiches and coffee at Katoomba Street Cafe, favored for its affordable prices.
Walk back to Katoomba town center.
AUD15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Strolling in Leura Village

Enjoy a relaxing walk around Leura, known for its charming boutiques and gardens.
Take a bus or walk from Katoomba.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Carrington Hotel

Dine at The Carrington Hotel's bistro for a traditional pub meal at a reasonable price.
Take a bus back towards Katoomba.
AUD20, 1 hour

7:00PM

Train Back to Sydney

Head back to Sydney for a restful night after your day out in nature.
Catch the train from Katoomba Station.
AUD10, 2 hours
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Day 3: Melbourne Exploration

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hardware Societe

Indulge in a classic Melbourne breakfast at Hardware Societe, famous for its creative twists on eggs benedict.
20-minute walk or tram from your accommodation.
AUD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visiting Federation Square

After breakfast, visit Federation Square for its galleries and the vibrant atmosphere of Melbourne's cultural hub.
Short walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Laneways & Street Art Tour

Explore Melbourne’s famous laneways and street art with a self-guided tour, noting the creative murals and graffiti.
Starts at Federation Square; maps available nearby.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Savor tasty street food at the must-visit Queen Victoria Market, known for its diverse offerings at reasonable prices.
Take tram or walk to market.
AUD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Melbourne Museum

Spend the afternoon exploring the Melbourne Museum to learn about the city's history and the sciences.
Take a tram from the market to the museum.
AUD15, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Night Noodle Market

Join locals in a bustling atmosphere at The Night Noodle Market for delicious Asian-inspired dishes.
It's a short walk depending on the market location.
AUD20, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening Walk Along the Yarra River

Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the Yarra River as the city lights create a picturesque scene.
Walk from the dinner location to the river path.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Great Ocean Road Journey

Great Ocean Road, Australia

6:30AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Fuel up with breakfast at your lodging before your early start on this famous adventure.
N/A
AUD5, 1 hour

7:30AM

Depart for Great Ocean Road

Rent a budget-friendly car or join a guided tour heading down the Great Ocean Road.
Located nearby your accommodation.
AUD60 (car rental share), 30 minutes

8:00AM

Stop at Angle Sea

Enjoy breathtaking coastal views as you make your first stop in Angle Sea.
Follow the road signs.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit the Twelve Apostles

Marvel at the iconic limestone stacks at the Twelve Apostles; a must-see natural wonder.
Continue down the Coastal Road.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Port Campbell

Grab a picnic lunch from a local bakery in Port Campbell and enjoy eating by the beach.
Walk to the nearest bakery after arriving.
AUD10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Exploring Loch Ard Gorge

Take a picturesque walk around Loch Ard Gorge, where you can enjoy stunning coastal views and historical significance.
Short drive from Port Campbell.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Head Back to Melbourne

Start your return journey to Melbourne while soaking in the last views of the coast.
Retrace your path along the Great Ocean Road.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Local Taphouse

End your adventurous day with hearty pub-style meals and local brews at The Local Taphouse.
Walk or take a tram from your accommodation.
AUD20, 1 hour
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Day 5: Brisbane City Discovery

Brisbane, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake Manor

Start your day at The Pancake Manor, famous for its indulgent pancake menu that will keep you fueled.
Close to the city center.
AUD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore South Bank Parklands

Wander through the lush gardens and lagoons of South Bank Parklands, an ideal spot for a leisurely morning.
A short walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Queensland Art Gallery

Discover the talents showcased at the Queensland Art Gallery, home to an impressive collection of Australian art.
Easily walkable from South Bank.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Eat Street Northshore

Enjoy delicious street food at Eat Street Northshore, offering a variety of local and international cuisines.
Catch the ferry from South Bank.
AUD15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

Take a leisurely walk in the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens and enjoy a few peaceful moments in nature.
Travel back to the city center by ferry.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Brooklyn Depot

Taste classic American burgers and loaded fries at The Brooklyn Depot, known for its relaxed ambiance.
A short walk from the Botanic Gardens.
AUD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Beach Retreat in Gold Coast

Gold Coast, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Emporium

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast at The Coffee Emporium, boasting delightful coffee and dishes.
Nearby your accommodation in Gold Coast.
AUD15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Surfers Paradise Beach

Spend your morning soaking up the sun and enjoying the waves at the spectacular Surfers Paradise Beach.
Walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Gold Coast Markets

Browse local artisans and fresh produce at the Gold Coast Markets offering unique crafts.
Visit the nearest market in the area.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Burleigh Brewing

Enjoy meals and a craft beer at Burleigh Brewing, an excellent spot for food enthusiasts.
Travel to Burleigh Heads.
AUD20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Hiking in Burleigh Head National Park

Take advantage of the stunning views as you hike through Burleigh Head National Park, observing nature.
Conclude your lunch and follow the trail signs.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Unwind on the beach or have a swim in the ocean as you close out your Australian adventure.
Return to Surfers Paradise.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Tropic

Celebrate your final night in Australia with a sunset dinner at The Tropic, known for its relaxed vibe and good food.
Short walk back to Surfers Paradise.
AUD30, 1.5 hours
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