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12-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Sydney & Melbourne Adventure

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Day 1: Arriving in Sydney

Sydney, Australia

10:00 AM

Arrival and Check-in

Check into family-friendly accommodation in the Sydney CBD, optimally located for easy access to major attractions.
Uber or taxi from the airport to your hotel.
AUD150, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Rocks

Enjoy a delicious lunch at 'The Fine Food Store' in The Rocks with its vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu.
Walk from your hotel to The Rocks area.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore The Rocks Markets

Wander through the weekend markets, providing a glimpse of local crafts and produce.
Explore the markets on foot.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Sydney Opera House

Take a guided tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House, a must-see for families.
Walk to the opera house.
AUD130, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Sydney Tower Restaurant

Savour a meal with panoramic views of Sydney in the Tower's revolving restaurant.
Uber or walk from the Opera House.
AUD250, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 2: Adventure in Sydney

Sydney, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bill's

Start your day off with a scrumptious breakfast at Bill's, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Walk to Bills, located in Darlinghurst.
AUD80, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Taronga Zoo

Take a ferry to Taronga Zoo, where kids can meet diverse animals and enjoy stunning views of the harbour.
Catch the ferry from Circular Quay.
AUD200, 4 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at the Zoo

Lunch at the zoo café with offers for all tastes while staying rejuvenated.
Available within the zoo grounds.
AUD60, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Wildlife Encounter

Opt for a unique encounter with kangaroos and koalas for an educational family experience.
Pre-book the animal encounter online.
AUD120, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Return to Sydney

Ferry back to Circular Quay for the city views.
Ferry back to Circular Quay.
AUD40, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Darling Harbour

Finish your day at Darling Harbour with dinner at 'Nicks Seafood Restaurant'.
Walk along the harbour.
AUD200, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 3: More Sydney Exploration

Sydney, Australia

8:30 AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Emporium

Enjoy a hearty breakfast close to the iconic Bondi Beach.
Uber to Bondi Beach.
AUD70, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Bondi Beach & Coastal Walk

Explore Bondi Beach and take the scenic walk to Coogee Beach for stunning ocean views.
Walking path along the coastline.
Free, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Coogee Pavilion

Stop for a relaxing lunch at Coogee Pavilion with beach views.
Continue on foot to Coogee Pavilion.
AUD90, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Return to Sydney

Take public transport back to your accommodation for a short break.
Bus or train back to the city.
AUD30, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Royal Botanic Garden

Stroll through the lovely Royal Botanic Garden, an educational nature escape close to the city.
Walk from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Sydney Fish Market

End your day with a fresh seafood feast at the renowned Sydney Fish Market.
Take a taxi or ferry to the Fish Market.
AUD150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 4: Travel to Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading to the airport.
At the hotel.
Free with stay, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Flight to Melbourne

Catch a short domestic flight from Sydney to Melbourne.
Taxi to the airport and 1-hour flight.
AUD300, 2 hours including check-in

12:00 PM

Check-in at Melbourne Hotel

Arrive and check into your new hotel space in Melbourne.
Uber to your hotel.
AUD150, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Federation Square

Dive into a hearty meal at 'Transport', located in the vibrant Federation Square.
Short walk from your hotel.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Exploring Federation Square & ACMI

Visit the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, promoting film culture suitable for the whole family.
Walk within Federation Square.
AUD40, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Stroll in the Royal Botanic Gardens

Unwind in the vast Royal Botanic Gardens, filled with greenery and educational signage about plant types.
Take a tram to the gardens.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner on Lygon Street

Indulge in dinner at 'Lygon Street', famous for its Italian dining scene.
Tram or taxi to Lygon Street.
AUD120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 5: Family Fun in Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:30 AM

Breakfast at Hardware Societe

Savour a classic French breakfast at this popular café, famous for its ambiance.
Take a tram or walk.
AUD80, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Melbourne Zoo

Enjoy an educational day at the Melbourne Zoo with its unique Australian and exotic animals.
Take tram number 55 to the zoo.
AUD150, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Zoo Cafe

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at the zoo's café, offering kids’ menus.
On-site.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Scienceworks

Head to Scienceworks for an interactive experience designed for children and families.
Take a tram to Spotswood.
AUD100, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Return to City Centre

Return to the city and unwind at your hotel.
Tram back to the CBD.
AUD30, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Crown Melbourne

Enjoy a spectacular dinner at one of the restaurants in Crown Melbourne, overlooking the Yarra River.
Catch a short walk to Crown.
AUD250, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 6: St Kilda Day Trip

Melbourne, Australia

8:30 AM

Breakfast in St Kilda

Start with brunch at 'Luna Park' café, perfect for families.
Drive to St Kilda or take a tram.
AUD100, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Luna Park

Enjoy a day of fun at Luna Park with its variety of rides and attractions suitable for kids of all ages.
Walk to Luna Park.
AUD125, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Picnic Lunch at St Kilda Beach

Pack a picnic and enjoy it on the beach, soaking in the sun and the lively atmosphere.
Bring your own food or buy nearby.
AUD40, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore St Kilda Foreshore

Walk along the foreshore, perhaps catching a glimpse of local penguins!
Enjoy the beachside pathway.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Espy

Savour a family-friendly dinner at 'The Espy', a historic venue on the beach.
Walk back to The Espy.
AUD120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 7: Great Ocean Road Trip

Melbourne, Australia

7:00 AM

Depart for Great Ocean Road

Early start with packed breakfasts for a beautiful day exploring the Great Ocean Road.
Car hire if needed; start driving on the scenic route.
AUD120 (car hire), 1 hour to the first stop

9:00 AM

First Stop at Torquay

Stop for a quick coffee and to see the surfing beaches.
Coffee shops abound in Torquay.
AUD30, 30 minutes

10:00 AM

Visit the Twelve Apostles

Arrive at this breathtaking site to take in spectacular ocean views.
Continue along Great Ocean Road.
AUD75 (entry fee), 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Apollo Bay

Relax with lunch at 'Apollo Bay Hotel', which has great options for kids.
Continue driving to Apollo Bay.
AUD90, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Beach Time in Apollo Bay

Spend some time playing and relaxing on the beach before heading back.
Walk to the beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Head Back to Melbourne

Begin the drive back, enjoying the beautiful coastal roads.
Return the same route.
AUD120 (for the car hire), 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Melbourne's Southbank

Enjoy dinner at the Southbank precinct with its many options along the river.
Walk to Southbank.
AUD150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 8: Cultural Day in Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Kettle Black

Start the day with a stylish Melbourne breakfast and great coffee.
Walk or catch a tram.
AUD80, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Melbourne Museum

Engage with extensive exhibits that are educational and entertaining for all ages.
Tram to Carlton Gardens.
AUD100, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Cafe at the Museum

Grab a casual lunch at the museum café, great for families on the go.
On-site café.
AUD60, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit the Royal Exhibition Building

Explore the stunning architecture of the Royal Exhibition Building set in a beautiful park.
Short walk from the Museum.
Free, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Explore Queen Victoria Market

Visit this bustling market for unique shopping experiences and local delicacies.
Tram to the Market.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Meat & Wine Co

Taste a delicious meal at a unique steakhouse that is also family-friendly.
Walk back to the city centre.
AUD180, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 9: Return to Sydney

Sydney, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast near your hotel

Grab a quick breakfast at a café near your Melbourne hotel.
Local café.
AUD50, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Flight Back to Sydney

Catch your flight back to Sydney for more adventures.
Taxi to the airport, 1-hour flight.
AUD300, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Check-in at Sydney Hotel

Arrive and settle back into your Sydney accommodation.
Uber to your hotel.
AUD150, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Grounds of Alexandria

Enjoy a laid-back lunch in a beautiful setting with gardens, farm animals, and delicious food.
Uber or a short taxi ride.
AUD100, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Experience the thrill of climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge for unforgettable views.
Uber to the Bridge Climb location.
AUD600, 3.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Mint

Dine in a unique atmosphere with classic Australian dishes close to the city's heart.
Uber to The Mint.
AUD120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 10: Last Day in Sydney

Sydney, Australia

8:30 AM

Breakfast at The Blue Door

Enjoy a lovely breakfast at this delightful local café, perfect for families.
Walk from your hotel.
AUD70, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Sydney Wildlife World

Visit Wildlife Sydney Zoo, where kids can learn about Australia’s unique animals.
Walk to Darling Harbour.
AUD150, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Harbour

Take a break at the beautiful Darling Harbour with a casual lunch.
There are many options in the harbour.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Australian National Maritime Museum

Learn about Australia's maritime history through interactive exhibits at this family-friendly museum.
Walk to the museum.
AUD50, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Relax at Lady Macquarie's Chair

Unwind in this lovely spot with sweeping views of Sydney Harbour, perfect for family photos.
Walk to Lady Macquarie's Chair.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Final Dinner at Aqua Dining

Celebrate your final night in Sydney with a dining experience that boasts stunning views of the harbour.
Book a table in advance and take a taxi.
AUD200, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 11: Departure Day

Sydney, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a last breakfast at your hotel before checkout.
At the hotel.
Free with stay, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Final Stroll Around Sydney

Take a leisurely walk around Circular Quay and soak in the final views of Sydney.
Walk to Circular Quay.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Check-out and Airport Transfer

Check out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure.
Uber or taxi to the airport.
AUD50, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Sydney
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