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16-Day Ultimate Australia Adventure from Melbourne: Explore Cities, Coastlines & Outback Wonders Starting January 17, 2026

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Day 1: Melbourne Exploration

Melbourne, Australia on January 17, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hardware Société, famed for its rich coffee and exquisite French-inspired brunch dishes, located in central Melbourne. Open from 7:30 AM.
AUD20, 1h

9:30am

Federation Square & Ian Potter Centre

Explore Federation Square’s striking architecture and visit the Ian Potter Centre to see Australian art. Open daily 10 AM - 5 PM; plan for some outdoor strolls in the square.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Enjoy a peaceful walk through the lush Royal Botanic Gardens, a perfect spot for some nature and photography.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Chin Chin

Relish modern Thai cuisine at Chin Chin, one of Melbourne’s most vibrant restaurants. Open daily 12 PM - 10 PM.
AUD35, 1h

2:30pm

Melbourne Laneways and Street Art Tour

Take a guided walking tour to experience Melbourne’s famous laneways and vibrant street art culture. Tours typically run from mid-morning until late afternoon.
AUD25, 2h

5:00pm

Eureka Skydeck

Visit the Eureka Skydeck for panoramic views of Melbourne at sunset. Open 10 AM - 10 PM.
AUD25, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Attica

Experience fine dining at Attica, ranked among Australia's best restaurants, serving innovative Australian cuisine. Reservations recommended.
AUD150, 2h
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 2: Great Ocean Road Start

Melbourne to Apollo Bay, Victoria on January 18, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at The Kettle Black

Enjoy a refined brunch at The Kettle Black, known for contemporary dishes and quality coffee. Opens 7 AM.
AUD25, 1h

8:30am

Depart Melbourne for Great Ocean Road

Begin your scenic drive along the iconic Great Ocean Road headed west towards Apollo Bay, enjoying coastal views and multiple photo stops along the way.
Free, 4h including stops

12:30pm

Lunch at Apollo Bay Bakery

Stop for a hearty lunch at Apollo Bay Bakery, famous for fresh baked pies and pastries.
AUD15, 1h

2:00pm

Great Otway National Park - Maits Rest Rainforest Walk

Explore the ancient rainforest on an easy 30-minute boardwalk through Maits Rest, a lush and serene spot.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Check-in at Apollo Bay Accommodation

Relax and freshen up at your hotel or guest house in Apollo Bay.
Varies, N/A

7:00pm

Dinner at Chris’s Beacon Point Restaurant & Villas

Dine over the bay with spectacular views and fresh local seafood at Chris’s Beacon Point. Open evenings from 6 PM.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Day 3: Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles

Apollo Bay to Port Campbell, Victoria on January 19, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at cafe on Apollo Bay Jetty

Casual breakfast with a view at a local cafe by Apollo Bay Jetty, serving fresh coffee and pastries. Open from 7 AM.
AUD15, 1h

8:30am

Drive to 12 Apostles

Continue along the Great Ocean Road to visit the famous 12 Apostles limestone stacks. Spend ample time taking photos and walking the coastal boardwalks.
Free, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Port Campbell Hotel

Enjoy a classic Australian pub meal at Port Campbell Hotel with views of the town square. Open from 11 AM.
AUD25, 1h

1:30pm

Loch Ard Gorge & Gibson Steps

Visit nearby Loch Ard Gorge for stunning rock formations and tranquil beach walks. Descend the Gibson Steps for spectacular views up close.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Drive to Adelaide (flight or overnight)

Option to drive or take an evening flight/train to Adelaide for the next leg of the journey.
AUD90-150 depending on option, Variable
Find Hotels in Apollo Bay to Port Campbell

Day 4: Adelaide City & Culture

Adelaide, South Australia on January 20, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Exchange Specialty Coffee

Start your day with specialty coffee and light breakfast at this popular Adelaide cafe. Opens 7:30 AM.
AUD15, 1h

9:30am

Adelaide Central Market

Explore one of the oldest fresh food markets in Australia, showcasing local produce, gourmet food, and lively atmosphere. Open from 7 AM to 3 PM.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Africola

Enjoy innovative African inspired dishes at this acclaimed restaurant. Open for lunch Thursday to Sunday from 12 PM.
AUD40, 1h30m

2:00pm

Art Gallery of South Australia

Visit the renowned Art Gallery with a diverse collection including Indigenous Australian art. Open 10 AM - 5 PM.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll along River Torrens & Elder Park

Relax with an evening walk by the River Torrens waterfront parklands, enjoying gardens and sculptures.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Orana

Dine at Orana, a fine dining restaurant focusing on native Australian ingredients and creative cuisine. Reservations essential.
AUD160, 2h
Find Hotels in Adelaide

Day 5: Kangaroo Island Adventure

Adelaide to Kangaroo Island, South Australia on January 21, 2026

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with a hotel breakfast before your trip to Kangaroo Island. Breakfast service usually starts 6:30 AM.
Included with accommodation, 1h

8:00am

Drive & ferry to Kangaroo Island

Drive to Cape Jervis and board the ferry to Kangaroo Island, a natural wildlife sanctuary famed for pristine beaches and native animals.
AUD105 ferry + AUD50 parking, 2h ferry + 1h drive

11:00am

Seal Bay Conservation Park

Join a ranger-guided tour to see Australian sea lions close-up on the beach. Open 9 AM - 5 PM.
AUD20, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Bay of Shoals Hotel

Enjoy a casual relaxed lunch at this hotel with harbor views and fresh local produce. Open from 11 AM.
AUD30, 1h

2:30pm

Flinders Chase National Park

Visit Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, two famous natural rock formations showcasing the island’s rugged beauty.
Park entry AUD13, 3h

6:00pm

Check-in & Dinner at Kangaroo Island Seaside Retreat

Relax and dine at your accommodation featuring fresh seafood and local wines.
AUD70, 2h
Find Hotels in Adelaide to Kangaroo Island

Day 6: More Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island, South Australia on January 22, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation

Start the day with a wholesome breakfast served at your lodge.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park

Explore the wildlife park to encounter koalas, kangaroos, and emus in naturalistic settings. Open 9 AM - 5 PM.
AUD25, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Kangaroo Island Fresh Seafoods

Sample fresh local seafood at this popular casual spot in Penneshaw.
AUD30, 1h

1:30pm

Penneshaw Coastal Walk

Enjoy a scenic coastal walk visiting local beaches and native flora.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Return Ferry to Adelaide

Catch the afternoon ferry back to the mainland for your next destination.
AUD105, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Peel Street, Adelaide

Dine at Peel Street, a trendy restaurant known for its bold flavours and contemporary dishes. Open 5:30 PM onwards.
AUD60, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Kangaroo Island

Day 7: Travel to Sydney

Adelaide to Sydney, Australia on January 23, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a quick breakfast at your accommodation before travel.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Flight Adelaide to Sydney

Fly to Sydney, approximately a 2 hour 20 minute flight.
AUD150-250, 2h20m

12:00pm

Check-in and lunch at The Grounds of Alexandria

Enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes in a beautiful garden setting near Sydney, open from 8 AM to 4 PM.
AUD30, 1h

2:00pm

Sydney Opera House Tour

Join a guided tour to learn about the architecture, history, and behind the scenes of this iconic landmark. Tours run every 30 minutes from 9 AM - 5 PM.
AUD42, 1h

3:30pm

Walk around Circular Quay and Royal Botanic Gardens

Stroll around Sydney’s harbourfront and enjoy the views at the Botanic Gardens, open sunrise to sunset.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Bennelong Restaurant

Dine at Bennelong inside the Opera House for gourmet Australian cuisine with spectacular harbour views. Booking essential.
AUD130, 2h
Find Hotels in Adelaide to Sydney

Day 8: Sydney Highlights

Sydney, Australia on January 24, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills Surry Hills

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Bills, known for its ricotta pancakes and fresh juices. Open from 7 AM.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Bridge Climb Sydney Harbour

Experience an unforgettable climb across the Sydney Harbour Bridge with fantastic city and harbour views. Climbs start early morning till sunset.
AUD330, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Opera Bar

Casual lunch with a view of the harbour and Opera House at this outdoor bar and restaurant. Open daily 11 AM to late.
AUD40, 1h

2:30pm

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia

Explore contemporary Australian and international art. Open 10 AM - 5 PM.
Free entry, some exhibitions paid, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Bondi Beach

Take a late afternoon trip to Bondi Beach for some beach time or a coastal walk before sunset.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

Dine overlooking Bondi Beach with sophisticated modern Australian cuisine. Open evenings from 6 PM. Reservations advised.
AUD130, 2h
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 9: Fly to Cairns & Reef

Sydney to Cairns, Queensland on January 25, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Quick breakfast before your flight to tropical north Queensland.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Flight Sydney to Cairns

Fly approximately 3 hours to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
AUD180-300, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Rusty's Markets Cafe

Sample fresh tropical fruits and local dishes at this atmospheric market eatery. Open 6 AM - 4 PM daily except Christmas.
AUD20, 1h

2:00pm

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Relax and swim in the saltwater lagoon on the Cairns Esplanade, open daily from 6 AM to 9 PM.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Cairns Botanic Gardens

Explore tropical plants and rainforest species. Open 7:30 AM to 6 PM.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ochre Restaurant

Enjoy native Australian ingredients in a relaxed fine dining setting in Cairns. Open 5 PM - 9 PM.
AUD60, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Sydney to Cairns

Day 10: Great Barrier Reef Day

Cairns, Queensland on January 26, 2026

7:00am

Early breakfast at hotel

Prepare for your Great Barrier Reef adventure with a nutritious breakfast.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling & Diving Tour

Full day tour with certified operators offering snorkeling, diving and glass-bottom boat options at reef sites like Great Detached Reef or Norman Reef. Tours run 8 AM - 5 PM.
AUD250, 8h

6:30pm

Casual dinner at Dundee's Restaurant & Bar

Relax with casual meals and drinks near the esplanade after a full day on the reef. Open daily, 5 PM - 10 PM.
AUD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns

Day 11: Rainforest & Daintree

Cairns to Daintree, Queensland on January 27, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before heading into the rainforest.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Daintree National Park

Explore the ancient rainforest with walks like the Daintree Discovery Centre and guided tours. Open 8 AM - 5 PM.
AUD38 entry fee, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Daintree Tea House

Enjoy locally sourced ingredients with spectacular rainforest views. Open 10 AM - 3 PM.
AUD30, 1h

2:00pm

Daintree River Wildlife Cruise

Take a guided cruise spotting crocodiles, birds and other native wildlife. Tours run 9 AM to 4 PM.
AUD35, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Cairns

Drive back to Cairns for overnight stay.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Salt House

Upscale dining at Salt House with waterfront views and modern Australian dishes. Open 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns to Daintree

Day 12: Fly to Brisbane

Cairns to Brisbane, Queensland on January 28, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before transfer to the airport.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Flight Cairns to Brisbane

Approximate 2.5 hour flight to Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland.
AUD150-220, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Howard Smith Wharves

Experience diverse dining options with river views at this revamped wharf precinct. Open 11 AM to late.
AUD30, 1h

2:00pm

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Get up close with koalas and other native wildlife at the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary. Open 9 AM - 5 PM.
AUD40, 3h

5:30pm

Stroll South Bank Parklands

Relax and enjoy landscaped gardens, promenades, and river views at South Bank, open sunrise to midnight.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Stokehouse Q

Seaside dining with modern cuisine at this South Bank restaurant. Open 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM.
AUD80, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns to Brisbane

Day 13: Gold Coast Day Trip

Brisbane to Gold Coast, Queensland on January 29, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before a day trip to the Gold Coast.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Gold Coast

Travel approximately 1 hour south to the Gold Coast, famous for its beaches and theme parks.
Free, 1h

9:30am

Explore Surfers Paradise Beach

Enjoy the sun and surf at this iconic Australian beach.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Collective Palm Beach

Diverse dining options under one roof with beachfront views. Open 9 AM - 9 PM.
AUD35, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Get interactive with Australian wildlife including feeding kangaroos and cuddling koalas. Open 8:30 AM - 5 PM.
AUD45, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Brisbane

Drive back to Brisbane for late evening rest.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Gerard’s Bistro

Elegant dining featuring Middle Eastern and Mediterranean inspired cuisine in Brisbane CBD. Open from 6 PM.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Brisbane to Gold Coast

Day 14: Brisbane City Day

Brisbane, Queensland on January 30, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at King Arthur Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with great coffee at this local favourite. Open 7 AM onwards.
AUD20, 1h

9:30am

Queensland Museum and Sciencentre

Explore natural history and interactive science exhibits. Open 9:30 AM - 5 PM.
Free entry, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Eat Street Northshore

Indulge in global street food flavors in a lively market setting. Open Friday to Sunday 4 PM - 10 PM (check for weekend visit).
AUD30, 1h

2:00pm

Mount Coot-tha Lookout

Drive or hike up to Mount Coot-tha for panoramic views of Brisbane city. Open daily sunrise to sunset.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at New Farm Park

Enjoy some late afternoon leisure time with riverside gardens and picnic spots.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Urbane Restaurant

Savour innovative and contemporary Australian cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients. Open 6 PM - 10 PM.
AUD100, 2h
Find Hotels in Brisbane

Day 15: Day Trip to Moreton Island

Brisbane, Queensland on January 31, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before your island adventure.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Ferry to Moreton Island

Catch a ferry from Brisbane to Moreton Island, known for sand dunes, shipwreck snorkelling, and dolphins.
AUD45, 1h

9:30am

Explore Moreton Island

Spend the day snorkelling around the Tangalooma Wrecks, sand tobogganing, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Many tour operators offer full day packages.
Tour prices vary (AUD100-150), 6h

4:00pm

Return to Brisbane

Ferry back to Brisbane in the late afternoon.
AUD45, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gerard’s Bistro

Close the day with a familiar favourite in Brisbane central dining.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Brisbane

Day 16: Departure Day

Brisbane, Queensland on February 1, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed final breakfast at your hotel before departure preparations.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Leisure time & packing

Use remaining time to pack or take a short walk in nearby streets to buy souvenirs.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Transfer to Brisbane Airport

Head to Brisbane airport for your onward flight or return home.
Taxi approx AUD50, 45m
Find Hotels in Brisbane
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