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20-Day Ultimate Australia Adventure: From Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef

Viewed by 66 travelers

Day 1: Sydney Arrival

Sydney, Australia on May 6, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria

Enjoy a fresh, locally-sourced breakfast in a charming garden setting, perfect to start your Australian adventure.
AUD25, 1h

10:30am

Sydney Opera House Tour

Explore this world-famous architectural icon with a guided tour that delves into its history and design.
AUD42, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Opera Bar

Dine with spectacular harbour views, enjoying fresh seafood and local favourites.
AUD40, 1h

2:00pm

Royal Botanic Garden Walk

Stroll through lush gardens with stunning harbour views and discover unique Australian plant species.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Explore The Rocks Historic District

Wander Sydney’s oldest neighbourhood with boutique shops, galleries, and cobbled streets.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Quay Restaurant

Indulge in award-winning fine dining with remarkable views of Sydney Harbour Bridge by night.
AUD150, 2h
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Day 2: Sydney Highlights

Sydney, Australia on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills in Surry Hills

Popular for its ricotta hotcakes and fresh ingredients, perfect to fuel your day.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Experience panoramic views of Sydney from atop the iconic bridge with a guided climb.
AUD288, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Circular Quay

Casual meal by the waterfront, ideal for quick dishes and soaking in harbour atmosphere.
AUD35, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Art Gallery of New South Wales

Explore Australian and international art, including Aboriginal masterpieces, in a relaxed setting.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Mr Wong

Enjoy upscale Cantonese cuisine with a lively atmosphere in the heart of the city.
AUD80, 1h30m
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Day 3: Beach and Culture

Sydney, Australia on May 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Sydney

Exquisite breakfast offering harbour views with a sophisticated menu.
AUD35, 1h

9:00am

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

A stunning 6 km seaside walk past beaches, cliffs, and bays, showcasing Sydney’s beautiful coastline.
Free, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Coogee Pavilion

Enjoy fresh ocean views with a varied menu including seafood and casual dining.
AUD40, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Museum of Contemporary Art

Located at Circular Quay, the MCA showcases modern Australian and international art.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tetsuya’s Restaurant

A sophisticated Japanese fusion tasting menu dining experience, perfect to end your Sydney stay.
AUD250, 2h
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Day 4: Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains, Australia on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local cafe

Start early with a hearty breakfast as you prepare for the day trip to the Blue Mountains.
AUD20, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Blue Mountains National Park

Scenic 2-hour drive west to this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site known for eucalyptus forests and cliffs.
AUD45 (car hire), 2h

11:00am

Visit Echo Point Lookout & Three Sisters

See the iconic Three Sisters rock formation and panoramic views over Jamison Valley.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Leura Garage

Enjoy a casual, creative menu in the charming village of Leura nearby.
AUD30, 1h

2:00pm

Scenic World Blue Mountains

Experience steep railway, skyway cable car, and boardwalk through ancient rainforest.
AUD49, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Sydney

Drive back to Sydney to rest for the next part of your trip.
Included in car hire, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Din Tai Fung

Enjoy delicious Taiwanese dumplings and small plates at this popular Sydney restaurant.
AUD40, 1h
Find Hotels in Blue Mountains

Day 5: Fly to Cairns

Cairns, Australia on May 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a quick breakfast before your flight to Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
AUD20, 1h

9:00am

Flight Sydney to Cairns

Morning flight approx. 3 hours, arriving into tropical Far North Queensland.
AUD150, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nu Nu Restaurant

Great spot by the waterfront with fresh, local Tropical North Queensland cuisine.
AUD35, 1h

2:00pm

Cairns Esplanade Walk and Lagoon

Relax with a stroll along the esplanade or a swim in the large, free lagoon pool.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Visit Cairns Night Markets

Explore local stalls with souvenirs, food, and artisan crafts in a lively atmosphere.
Free entry, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ochre Restaurant

Dine on modern Australian dishes blending native ingredients in a stylish setting.
AUD75, 1h30m
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Day 6: Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef, Australia on May 11, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for your full-day reef adventure.
AUD20, 30m

7:00am

Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling Tour

Explore vibrant coral gardens and marine life on a guided boat tour departing Cairns. Open daily 7am–5pm.
AUD220, 8h

3:30pm

Return to Cairns and Rest

Relax after a long day on the reef, with optional spa or hotel pool time.
Varies, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Dundee’s Restaurant

Enjoy robust Australian flavours including crocodile and kangaroo in a vibrant setting.
AUD70, 1h30m
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Day 7: Daintree Rainforest

Daintree, Australia on May 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up early for your rainforest tour north of Cairns.
AUD20, 30m

7:30am

Full Day Daintree Rainforest Tour

Guided tour through the world’s oldest tropical rainforest with wildlife spotting and river cruises. Tours run approx. 7am–6pm.
AUD160, 10h

6:30pm

Return to Cairns

Arrive back for rest and overnight stay.
Included, 30m

7:30pm

Light Dinner at Perrotta’s at the Gallery

Enjoy a casual dinner with good wines and seasonal dishes near Cairns city centre.
AUD50, 1h
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Day 8: Cairns Leisure

Cairns, Australia on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Rusty’s Market Cafe

Sample fresh tropical fruits and local breakfast fare at this bustling market.
AUD15, 1h

9:30am

Kuranda Scenic Railway and Village

Take this beautiful heritage train through rainforest to Kuranda, explore markets and cultural exhibits.
AUD60, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch in Kuranda Village

Try local cafes offering fresh Queensland produce surrounded by rainforest charm.
AUD30, 1h

3:30pm

Return via Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Cableway ride offering breathtaking aerial views of the rainforest canopy and Barron Gorge National Park.
AUD60, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ochre Restaurant

Enjoy another meal featuring native Australian ingredients in a relaxed atmosphere.
AUD75, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Cairns

Day 9: Fly to Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia on May 14, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Quick breakfast before flying to Melbourne.
AUD20, 30m

9:00am

Flight Cairns to Melbourne

2h40m flight to this cultural and culinary capital of Australia.
AUD150, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Chin Chin

A Melbourne favourite, Chin Chin offers vibrant Southeast Asian inspired dishes in the CBD.
AUD40, 1h

2:00pm

Federation Square & ACMI

Explore Melbourne’s iconic cultural precinct and contemporary art museum with interactive exhibits.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk along Southbank Promenade

A lively riverside precinct with shops, galleries, and cafes perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Press Club

Enjoy modern Greek fine dining in one of Melbourne’s most acclaimed restaurants.
AUD120, 2h
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Day 10: Melbourne Museums

Melbourne, Australia on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Higher Ground

Trendy café known for superb coffee and innovative breakfast menus.
AUD35, 1h

9:30am

Melbourne Museum & Royal Exhibition Building

Learn about Victoria’s natural and cultural history and visit the beautiful exhibition building nearby.
AUD15, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Hardware Societe

French-inspired café famous for brunch and lunch in the heart of Melbourne.
AUD30, 1h

2:30pm

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum, showcasing diverse international and local art.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Supernormal

Modern Asian cuisine offering share plates and a dynamic menu in a stylish setting.
AUD70, 1h30m
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Day 11: Day Trip to Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley, Australia on May 16, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before wine country day trip to Yarra Valley.
AUD20, 30m

8:00am

Yarra Valley Wine Tour

Full day guided tour visiting boutique wineries, cellar doors, and gourmet food producers; tours typically 8am–6pm.
AUD150, 10h

7:00pm

Return and Dinner in Melbourne CBD

Casual dining options close to your hotel after a relaxing day in the vineyards.
AUD40, 1h
Find Hotels in Yarra Valley

Day 12: Melbourne Markets & Laneways

Melbourne, Australia on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Degraves Street Café

Experience Melbourne’s famous laneway coffee culture with fresh pastries and coffee.
AUD20, 1h

9:30am

Queen Victoria Market

Explore fresh produce, artisan goods, and souvenirs at Melbourne’s historic open-air market.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Market Lane Coffee & Food

Small café near the market known for specialty coffee and light meals.
AUD25, 1h

1:30pm

Laneways Walking Tour

Guided or self-guided tour of famous lanes such as Hosier Lane for street art and hidden gems.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Coda

Modern Asian-fusion restaurant with an inventive menu and elegant vibe.
AUD80, 1h30m
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Day 13: Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road, Australia on May 18, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast in preparation for day trip along scenic coastline.
AUD20, 30m

7:00am

Great Ocean Road Guided Day Tour

Full day tour visiting famous sites such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and coastal towns, approx 7am–8pm.
AUD130, 13h

8:30pm

Return to Melbourne

Transfer back to hotel after a rewarding coastal day.
Included, 0h
Find Hotels in Great Ocean Road

Day 14: Travel to Adelaide

Adelaide, Australia on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before your flight to Adelaide.
AUD20, 1h

10:00am

Flight Melbourne to Adelaide

Short approx 1hr20min flight to Adelaide, gateway to South Australia’s wine regions.
AUD110, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Africola

Vibrant and popular restaurant known for bold African flavours and grilled dishes.
AUD50, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Adelaide Central Market

One of the largest fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere with great atmosphere.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Art Gallery of South Australia

Extensive collections including Australian, European and Asian art in a stunning building.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Peel Street

Mod Oz cuisine focusing on fresh local ingredients with creative flavours.
AUD70, 1h30m
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Day 15: Barossa Valley

Barossa Valley, Australia on May 20, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early start for full day exploring one of Australia’s premier wine regions.
AUD20, 30m

8:00am

Barossa Valley Wine Tour

Guided day visiting renowned wineries like Penfolds and Jacobs Creek with tastings. Tours run approx. 8am–6pm.
AUD150, 10h

7:00pm

Return to Adelaide and Dinner

Relaxed dinner option near hotel after a day of wine tasting.
AUD40, 1h
Find Hotels in Barossa Valley

Day 16: Kangaroo Island Travel

Kangaroo Island, Australia on May 21, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a quick breakfast before heading to Kangaroo Island for wildlife and nature.
AUD20, 30m

8:00am

Drive and Ferry to Kangaroo Island

Morning 2-hour road and ferry trip to the island, famous for native animals and wilderness.
AUD90, 2h

11:00am

Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park

Guided walk on the beach among Australian sea lions, open 9am–5pm.
AUD25, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park Café

Casual dining surrounded by native animals in a relaxed environment.
AUD30, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Flinders Chase National Park

Visit Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, iconic natural landmarks on the island.
AUD12, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Kangaroo Island Lodge

Enjoy fresh local seafood and produce in a comfortable lodge setting.
AUD80, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Kangaroo Island

Day 17: Kangaroo Island Wildlife

Kangaroo Island, Australia on May 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at lodge

Early breakfast to prepare for full day wildlife adventures.
AUD20, 30m

8:30am

Guided Kangaroo Island Wildlife Tour

Visit koala sanctuaries, echidna habitats, and more with expert rangers.
AUD140, 7h

4:00pm

Relax at Island Beach

Enjoy pristine beach time and possibly spot native birds and wallabies.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sunset Food & Wine

A charming eatery featuring fresh local ingredients and stunning views at dusk.
AUD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Kangaroo Island

Day 18: Return to Sydney

Sydney, Australia on May 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at lodge

Enjoy your last breakfast on Kangaroo Island before returning to the mainland.
AUD20, 30m

8:00am

Return ferry and drive to Adelaide Airport

Morning transfer back to Adelaide for flight to Sydney.
AUD90, 2h

12:00pm

Flight Adelaide to Sydney

Early afternoon flight, approx 2hrs.
AUD120, 2h

2:30pm

Lunch at Sydney Fish Market

Delight in fresh seafood and sushi at one of the world’s largest seafood markets.
AUD40, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Bondi Beach

Spend the afternoon at one of Sydney’s most iconic beaches, perfect for walking and people watching.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

Dine with spectacular ocean views, known for its modern Australian cuisine.
AUD120, 1h30m
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Day 19: Sydney Leisure

Sydney, Australia on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills in Bondi

Relaxed breakfast with fresh ingredients and a popular spot for locals and tourists.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Taronga Zoo Sydney

Catch the ferry and spend the morning at this world-class zoo with Australian native animals.
AUD49, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Zoo Café

Casual café inside the zoo offering snacks and light lunches.
AUD25, 1h

2:30pm

Return ferry and Royal Botanic Gardens

Enjoy the scenic ferry ride back to Circular Quay and relax in the gardens.
AUD15, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Bennelong Restaurant

Elegant dining in the Sydney Opera House featuring modern Australian cuisine.
AUD150, 2h
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Day 20: Departure Day

Sydney, Australia on May 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a relaxing breakfast to wrap up your 20-day Australian trip.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Last minute shopping or stroll

Depending on your flight time, fit in a final walk around Circular Quay or local shops.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Transfer to Sydney Airport

Allow plenty of time for your departure procedures at the airport.
AUD50, 1h
Find Hotels in Sydney
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