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15-Day Ultimate Australian Journey: Melbourne to the Great Barrier Reef and Brisbane

Viewed by 161 travelers

Day 1: Discover Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia on January 17, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Start your Melbourne trip with a delicious French-style breakfast renowned for its creative menu and artisan coffee.
AUD35, 1h

9:30am

Explore Federation Square & ACMI

Visit Melbourne's cultural hub featuring modern architecture and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, open 10am-5pm.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk along Southbank Promenade

Enjoy riverside strolls, public art, and lively cafes along the Yarra River waterfront.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Movida Next Door

Experience modern Spanish tapas in a chic, bustling Fitzroy neighborhood venue.
AUD50, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Royal Botanic Gardens

Spend the afternoon exploring this lush garden showcasing native and exotic plants, open until dusk.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Coffee at Degraves Street

Dive into Melbourne’s laneway coffee culture with an espresso at one of the iconic cafes.
AUD10, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Chin Chin

Enjoy vibrant and modern Thai fusion cuisine in an energetic setting, famous across Melbourne.
AUD70, 2h
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 2: Melbourne Arts & Laneways

Melbourne, Australia on January 18, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Seven Seeds

Savor specialty coffee and fresh, wholesome breakfast dishes in Carlton.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Street Art Walking Tour

Discover the colorful street art and hidden laneways of Melbourne with a knowledgeable guide.
AUD40, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Higher Ground

Relish innovative brunch and lunch fare in a beautifully designed industrial-style café.
AUD40, 1h

1:30pm

Visit National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

Explore a top collection of Australian and international art in this iconic gallery, open 10am-5pm.
Free entry; special exhibits may charge, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Birrarung Marr

Enjoy this peaceful park along the Yarra River with art installations and city views.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Attica

Experience award-winning fine dining focused on native Australian ingredients; reservation required.
AUD250, 2h
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 3: Great Ocean Road Start

Victoria, Australia on January 19, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast before setting out on your scenic coastal drive.
AUD20, 30m

8:00am

Depart for Great Ocean Road

Drive southwest from Melbourne to Torquay, taking approximately 3 hours to reach the iconic start of the Great Ocean Road.
Car rental AUD80/day, 3h

11:30am

Visit Bells Beach

Famous surfing destination with spectacular ocean views and walking trails.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Beach Hotel, Torquay

Dine at this popular beachfront pub serving generous meals with a relaxed vibe.
AUD40, 1h

2:00pm

Stop at Split Point Lighthouse, Aireys Inlet

Visit a historic lighthouse with panoramic coastal vistas and photo opportunities.
AUD7 (guided tour), 1h

3:30pm

Check-in and relax at Lorne

Arrive in Lorne, a charming coastal town, ideal for exploring shops and cafes or resting.
Varies, 30m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Bottle of Milk, Lorne

Enjoy casual dining with tasty burgers and craft beers in a relaxing atmosphere.
AUD35, 1h
Find Hotels in Victoria

Day 4: Great Ocean Road & Apostles

Victoria, Australia on January 20, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at Lorne Café

Start your day with a fresh breakfast in this welcoming town café.
AUD25, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Twelve Apostles

Travel to the iconic limestone formations along the coast, a must-see on the Great Ocean Road.
Free, 2h

10:30am

Explore Loch Ard Gorge & Gibson Steps

Visit these stunning geological features, descending to the beach for close-up views.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre

Light meals and refreshments with views near the visitor centre.
AUD30, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Port Campbell

Relax or explore the small coastal town, ideal for enjoying local shops and beaches.
Free, 30m

3:00pm

Optional Helicopter Tour

Take a scenic helicopter flight over the Twelve Apostles and Great Ocean Road for spectacular views.
AUD150, 30m

5:00pm

Return to Melbourne

Drive back to Melbourne, approximately 3 hours travel time.
Car rental, 3h

8:30pm

Dinner at Seasonal Local Eatery

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in Melbourne after your day trip, choosing from various excellent local options.
AUD50, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Victoria

Day 5: Travel to Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains, Australia on January 21, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a hearty breakfast to prepare for your trip to the Blue Mountains.
AUD20, 30m

8:00am

Travel to Blue Mountains

Drive or take a train approximately 2 hours from Melbourne to the scenic Blue Mountains, New South Wales.
AUD15, 2h

10:30am

Echo Point & Three Sisters

Visit this famous lookout with stunning views over the Jamison Valley and iconic Three Sisters rock formation.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Leura Garage

Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy and friendly mountain town setting.
AUD40, 1h

1:30pm

Scenic World Blue Mountains

Ride the Scenic Skyway, Cableway and Railway for rainforest views and island walking trails. Open 9am-5pm.
AUD49, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Leura Village

Relax and browse gift shops, cafes and galleries in this charming mountain village.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Local Blue Mountains Restaurant

Dine on modern Australian cuisine featuring local ingredients in a warm mountain atmosphere.
AUD60, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Blue Mountains

Day 6: Blue Mountains to Sydney

Sydney, Australia on January 22, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast in Blue Mountains

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or nearby cafe before heading to Sydney.
AUD20, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Sydney

Drive or take train approx. 2 hours to Sydney for your city exploration.
AUD20, 2h

11:30am

Visit Sydney Opera House

Explore this iconic architectural landmark with a guided tour, open 9am-5pm.
AUD42, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Opera Bar

Enjoy fresh seafood and modern Australian cuisine with stunning harbour views.
AUD45, 1h

2:30pm

Walk Around Circular Quay and Royal Botanic Gardens

Stroll the scenic harbor area and gardens for relaxation and photo opportunities.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Explore The Rocks District

Discover historic Sydney with quaint lanes, shops, and markets.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Quay Restaurant

Dine fine Australian cuisine in one of Sydney’s premier and award-winning restaurants with harbour views.
AUD150, 2h
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Day 7: Sydney Coastal & Zoo

Sydney, Australia on January 23, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at Bills Surry Hills

Start the day with delicious ricotta hotcakes or avocado toast at this beloved café.
AUD25, 1h

9:00am

Taronga Zoo Sydney

Experience native and exotic wildlife with scenic harbor views, open 9:30am-5pm.
AUD48, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Chowder Bay Restaurant

Casual waterfront dining with excellent seafood near the zoo.
AUD50, 1h

2:00pm

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Enjoy the iconic 6km coastal walk with stunning beaches and ocean cliffs.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

Savor Italian-inspired cuisine overlooking famous Bondi Beach.
AUD90, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 8: Fly to Cairns

Cairns, Australia on January 24, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Light breakfast before your morning flight to tropical Cairns.
AUD20, 30m

8:30am

Flight Sydney to Cairns

Fly approx. 3 hours to Cairns, Queensland’s gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
AUD200, 3h

12:30pm

Check-in and Lunch at Prawn Star

Dine on fresh seafood aboard a floating pontoon restaurant in Cairns Marina.
AUD50, 1h

2:00pm

Stroll along Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Relax and enjoy the large lagoon and surrounding parks with public art displays.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Cairns Botanic Gardens

Explore tropical flora and rainforest species, open 8am to 6pm.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Ochre Restaurant

Experience contemporary Australian dining with native ingredients in an elegant setting.
AUD70, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Cairns

Day 9: Great Barrier Reef Tour

Cairns, Australia on January 25, 2026

6:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast before your day-long reef adventure.
AUD20, 30m

7:30am

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling & Diving Excursion

Full-day tour providing snorkeling, diving, interpretative talks, and lunch aboard. Trip runs roughly 7:30am to 4:30pm.
AUD230, 9h

5:30pm

Return and Rest

Rest after an exhilarating day at sea.
Free, Rest

7:30pm

Dinner at Dundee’s Restaurant

Savor seafood and steak dishes in cozy, casual surroundings.
AUD60, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Cairns

Day 10: Daintree Rainforest Day

Daintree, Australia on January 26, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early light breakfast prior to your rainforest day tour.
AUD20, 30m

8:00am

Daintree Rainforest Guided Tour

Explore the ancient rainforest, wildlife spotting, and river cruise to see crocodiles. Tours typically 8am to 5pm.
AUD160, 9h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Raw Prawn Cairns

Fresh seafood and casual dining near Cairns marina after your tour.
AUD50, 1h
Find Hotels in Daintree

Day 11: Cairns to Brisbane Flight

Cairns to Brisbane, Australia on January 27, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Rusty’s Markets

Enjoy fresh fruit, pastries, and local foods at this vibrant Saturday market, open 6am-12pm.
AUD15, 1h

10:00am

Leisurely Cairns Esplanade Walk

Relax before your flight with a stroll through the lively esplanade area.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Waterbar & Grill

Enjoy excellent seafood and steak overlooking the marina.
AUD55, 1h

2:00pm

Flight Cairns to Brisbane

Fly approximately 2.5 hours to Brisbane, Queensland’s vibrant capital city.
AUD150, 2h30m

5:00pm

Check-in & Rest

Settle into your Brisbane hotel and relax after your travel.
Varies, Rest

7:00pm

Dinner at E’cco Bistro

Dine on contemporary Australian dishes in a stylish atmosphere.
AUD75, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Cairns to Brisbane

Day 12: Brisbane City Tour

Brisbane, Australia on January 28, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Felix for Goodness

Healthy and vibrant breakfast options including smoothie bowls and fresh juices.
AUD20, 1h

9:30am

Visit Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)

Explore extensive art collections; open 10am-5pm with free general admission.
Free, special exhibits extra, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at South Bank Parklands

Choose from multiple dining options with views over the Brisbane River.
AUD35, 1h

1:30pm

Walk or Cycle Along Brisbane River

Leisurely ride or walk the riverside paths to see city highlights; bike rental available.
Bike rental AUD15, 2h

4:00pm

Story Bridge Adventure Climb

Guided climb with spectacular panoramic views, available until sunset.
AUD150, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Stokehouse Q

Fine dining featuring fresh local produce overlooking the river.
AUD90, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Brisbane

Day 13: Moreton Island Day Trip

Moreton Island, Australia on January 29, 2026

6:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with an early breakfast before your island excursion.
AUD20, 30m

7:30am

Ferry to Moreton Island

Catch the ferry from Brisbane for a day of sand dunes, snorkeling, and natural beauty. Ferry runs early morning, returns day same day.
AUD90, 1h

9:00am

Snorkeling at Tangalooma Wrecks

Discover marine life among the sunken ships, a popular snorkeling spot on Moreton Island.
Included with ferry ticket, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Tangalooma Island Resort

Enjoy resort dining options featuring fresh and local cuisine.
AUD40, 1h

1:00pm

Sand Tobogganing & Dunes Exploration

Experience exhilarating sand toboggan rides and explore stunning dunes and beaches.
Included or AUD15 rental for gear, 2h

3:30pm

Return Ferry to Brisbane

Travel back to Brisbane with spectacular sea views.
Included, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gerard’s Bistro

Dine on Modern Middle Eastern inspired cuisine in a trendy Brisbane venue.
AUD80, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Moreton Island

Day 14: Brisbane Leisure Day

Brisbane, Australia on January 30, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at King Arthur Cafe

Indulge in eclectic breakfast dishes and premium coffee in a vibrant setting.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Meet koalas, kangaroos and other native animals. Open 9am-5pm.
AUD45, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Bavarian

Enjoy hearty German fare and beers in a lively riverside beer garden atmosphere.
AUD40, 1h

2:30pm

Shopping in Queen Street Mall

Explore Brisbane’s largest shopping precinct featuring major brands and local boutiques.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Stokehouse Q or Jellyfish Restaurant

Choose to revisit Stokehouse Q or enjoy fresh seafood and relaxed ambiance at Jellyfish Restaurant.
AUD90, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Brisbane

Day 15: Trip Departure

Brisbane, Australia on January 31, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Australia at leisure before packing and checkout.
AUD20, 1h

9:00am

Pack & Hotel Checkout

Prepare for your airport transfer and departure.
Free, Varies

11:00am

Departure from Brisbane Airport

Fly home or onward, concluding your unforgettable Australian journey.
Varies, Varies
Find Hotels in Brisbane
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