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20-Day Ultimate Australia Adventure: Sydney to Cairns

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Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Sydney, Australia on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills Surry Hills

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Bills, known for its ricotta hotcakes and fresh Aussie coffee, perfect for starting your Sydney adventure.
AUD35, 1h

9:30am

Sydney Opera House Tour

Take a guided tour of the architectural icon, learning about its history and enjoying stunning harbour views. Tours operate from 9am to 5pm daily.
AUD45, 1h30m

11:30am

Royal Botanic Garden Walk

Stroll through the peaceful Royal Botanic Gardens adjacent to the Opera House, taking in native flora and harbour vistas.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Grounds of the City

Savour a contemporary Australian lunch at this vibrant café in the city centre, known for fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
AUD40, 1h

2:30pm

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Book ahead for a thrilling climb over the Sydney Harbour Bridge for panoramic views of the city and harbour. Climbs operate from 7am to 3pm.
AUD308, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Quay Restaurant

Dine at one of Australia's finest restaurants featuring spectacular harbour views and innovative cuisine. Reservations recommended.
AUD100+, 2h
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Day 2: City Sights and Markets

Sydney, Australia on May 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Black Star Pastry

Try their famous strawberry watermelon cake and artisan coffee for a sweet start near Newtown.
AUD20, 45m

9:00am

Visit to The Rocks

Explore Sydney’s historic sandstone district with artisan shops, galleries and weekend markets open from 10am to 5pm on Sundays.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Glenmore Hotel Rooftop

Relax with a pub-style lunch and beer on the rooftop with outstanding views of Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
AUD30, 1h

1:30pm

Art Gallery of New South Wales

Discover impressive Australian and international art collections; open 10am to 5pm daily.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Take this stunning 6km walk along beaches, cliffs, and bays with plenty of scenic photo stops.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

Dine overlooking Bondi Beach with modern Italian-inspired cuisine, open until 10pm.
AUD70, 2h
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Day 3: Blue Mountains Day Trip

Sydney, Australia on May 6, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick, energising breakfast before departure to the Blue Mountains.
Included, 30m

8:00am

Blue Mountains Guided Tour

Join a full-day tour exploring the Three Sisters rock formation, Echo Point, and scenic lookouts. Tours typically run 8am to 6pm.
AUD150, 9h

6:30pm

Dinner at Darling Harbour

Return to Sydney and enjoy dinner at Nick’s Seafood Restaurant in Darling Harbour, known for fresh local seafood.
AUD50, 1h30m
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Day 4: Flight to Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia on May 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Brewtown Newtown

Start the day with artisan coffee and pastries before heading to the airport.
AUD25, 45m

9:30am

Flight Sydney to Melbourne

Take a short 1h 30m flight to Melbourne; flights depart frequently in the morning.
AUD100, 1h30m

11:30am

Check-in and Lunch at Higher Ground

Enjoy brunch-style lunch at this popular Melbourne café known for its coffee and innovative dishes.
AUD40, 1h

1:00pm

Federation Square Exploration

Discover Melbourne’s cultural hub with galleries, museums, and striking architecture.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Take a leisurely walk through beautiful gardens open from 7am to sunset.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Chin Chin

Experience lively ambiance and modern Southeast Asian cuisine, popular with locals and tourists alike.
AUD60, 2h
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Day 5: Arts and Laneways

Melbourne, Australia on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Industry Beans

Savour specialty coffee and inventive breakfast dishes in Fitzroy, a hub for Melbourne’s coffee culture.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Street Art Walking Tour

Explore Melbourne’s famous laneways full of vibrant street art and boutique shops; best visited in the morning to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Movida

Enjoy authentic Spanish tapas and wine in one of Melbourne’s best-loved restaurants.
AUD50, 1h30m

2:00pm

National Gallery of Victoria

Visit Australia’s oldest and most extensive art museum open daily from 10am to 5pm, showcasing international and local art.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at St Kilda Beach

Catch the sunset by the beach, with a chance to see the resident Little Penguins at the pier.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Stokehouse

Dine on modern cuisine with sea views, a great way to end your Melbourne day.
AUD80, 2h
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Day 6: Great Ocean Road Start

Melbourne to Apollo Bay, Australia on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Sixpenny

Enjoy seasonal and locally inspired breakfast in a cosy setting to fuel your road trip.
AUD45, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Great Ocean Road

Begin scenic drive westward from Melbourne through coastal towns stopping at iconic sites like Bells Beach and Lorne.
Fuel approx. AUD50, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Bottle of Milk, Lorne

Casual burger joint famous for juicy and creative burgers, perfect stop before continuing the journey.
AUD25, 1h

1:30pm

Erskine Falls

Take a short walk to Erskine Falls, a beautiful cascading waterfall near Lorne.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Arrive in Apollo Bay and Check-in

Rest and relax in this charming coastal town.
Varies, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at La Bimba

Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a focus on fresh, local produce in a warm atmosphere.
AUD60, 2h
Find Hotels in Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Day 7: Great Ocean Road Highlights

Apollo Bay to Port Campbell, Australia on May 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Apollo Bay Bakery

Start the day with fresh pastries and coffee in this beloved local bakery.
AUD15, 45m

8:30am

Drive to Port Campbell

Continue the Great Ocean Road drive visiting iconic landmarks along the way.
Fuel approx. AUD30, 2h

10:00am

Twelve Apostles Viewing

Visit the famous limestone stacks at the Twelve Apostles viewing platform, open all day.
Free, 1h

11:30am

Loch Ard Gorge

Explore this spectacular gorge with walking trails and historical info about shipwrecks.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Forage on the Foreshore

Enjoy coastal cuisine with locally caught seafood and fresh ingredients, open 11am to 3pm.
AUD40, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the Port Campbell National Park

Explore short walking trails and see natural rock formations like The Arch and London Bridge.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at 12 Rocks Beach Bar & Restaurant

Savour relaxed dining with views of the ocean and a fresh Australian menu.
AUD50, 2h
Find Hotels in Apollo Bay to Port Campbell

Day 8: Flight to Adelaide

Port Campbell to Adelaide, Australia on May 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a quiet breakfast before heading back to Melbourne airport.
Included, 30m

8:30am

Drive to Melbourne Airport

Travel back for your mid-morning flight to Adelaide.
Fuel approx. AUD50, 3h

12:00pm

Flight Melbourne to Adelaide

Short domestic flight, approximately 1h 15m.
AUD100, 1h15m

1:30pm

Lunch at Africola

Experience vibrant North African flavours from the best-reviewed restaurant in Adelaide; open from 12pm to 3pm weekdays.
AUD60, 1h

3:00pm

Adelaide Central Market

Explore one of the largest fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere; open 7:30am to 3pm weekdays and 7:30am to 4pm Saturdays.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Walk Along River Torrens

Take a relaxing stroll along the picturesque river walk close to the city centre.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Orana

Enjoy a fine dining experience with a focus on native Australian ingredients; booking essential.
AUD150+, 2h
Find Hotels in Port Campbell to Adelaide

Day 9: Wine and Wildlife

Adelaide, Australia on May 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Exchange Specialty Coffee

Start with excellent coffee and freshly made pastries in this popular café.
AUD20, 45m

8:30am

Day Trip to Barossa Valley

Join a wine tour sampling premium Australian wines, gourmet food tastings, and cellar door visits. Tours usually depart 8:30am and last 8-9 hours.
AUD180, 9h

6:30pm

Dinner at Peel St

After returning to Adelaide, enjoy a casual, vibrant dining experience with global-inspired small plates.
AUD50, 1h30m
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Day 10: Flight to Alice Springs

Adelaide to Alice Springs, Australia on May 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Grab a hearty breakfast to prepare for your outback adventure flight.
Included, 30m

9:00am

Flight Adelaide to Alice Springs

Travel to the heart of Australia with a flight of approximately 2h.
AUD150, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at The Overlanders Steakhouse

Sample authentic Aussie outback flavours, especially known for kangaroo and camel dishes.
AUD40, 1h

1:00pm

Alice Springs Desert Park

Discover flora, fauna and indigenous culture of the region; open 7:30am to 6pm.
AUD37, 2h

3:30pm

Explore Todd Mall

Browse local arts, crafts and Aboriginal souvenirs in the charming Alice Springs shopping strip.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Hanuman Alice Springs

Enjoy fusion of Indian and Thai cuisine with a local twist in an elegant setting.
AUD55, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Adelaide to Alice Springs

Day 11: Cold Outback Morning

Alice Springs, Australia on May 14, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Page 27 Café

Fuel up with specialty coffee and modern breakfast plates in a cosy café.
AUD25, 1h

8:30am

Anzac Hill Lookout

Enjoy panoramic views of Alice Springs and surroundings from this iconic lookout point.
Free, 30m

9:30am

Visit Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum

Explore the history and impact of the famous flying doctor service, open daily 8:30am to 5pm.
AUD20, 1h

11:00am

Alice Springs Reptile Centre

Meet Australia’s most diverse reptiles including thorny devils and perentie lizards; open daily 10am to 5pm.
AUD18, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Bakery

Grab a light and tasty lunch with local ingredients and excellent coffee.
AUD25, 1h

2:00pm

Araluen Cultural Precinct

Visit local art galleries showcasing indigenous and contemporary art, open 10am to 4:30pm.
AUD15, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Accommodation/Local Walk

Prepare for next day’s Uluru trip or take a walk in local parks.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Juicy Rump

Local favourite spot to try Aussie pub classics including burgers and steaks.
AUD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Alice Springs

Day 12: Travel to Uluru

Alice Springs to Uluru, Australia on May 15, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Accommodation

Have an early breakfast before heading out to Uluru.
Included, 30m

8:00am

Drive or Shuttle to Uluru

Journey approximately 4.5 hours; organise shuttle or hire a car for flexibility.
Fuel approx. AUD80 or Shuttle AUD150, 4h30m

1:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Ayers Rock Resort

Eat at one of the many dining options at the resort including cafes and casual restaurants.
AUD40, 1h

2:30pm

Uluru Base Walk

Take a guided or self-guided walk around the base of Uluru to learn about its cultural significance; open 5am–8pm.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Sunset Viewing at Uluru

Watch the colours of the rock change at sunset from designated viewing areas.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ilkari Restaurant

Enjoy buffet-style dinners featuring native ingredients and international cuisine at the resort.
AUD70, 2h
Find Hotels in Alice Springs to Uluru

Day 13: Kata Tjuta and Uluru Sunrise

Uluru, Australia on May 16, 2025

5:00am

Uluru Sunrise Tour

Witness a spectacular sunrise over Uluru with an early morning tour that includes light breakfast; tours start around 5am.
AUD85, 3h

9:00am

Breakfast at Resort Café

Relax and enjoy a late breakfast after sunrise tour.
AUD25, 1h

10:30am

Visit Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)

Explore the spectacular domed rock formations via the Valley of the Winds walk; park open from 5am to sunset.
Included with park pass AUD38, 3h

2:00pm

Return to Resort and Relax

Take time to rest or visit cultural centres to learn about Anangu culture.
Free, 2h

5:30pm

Sounds of Silence Dinner

Indulge in a unique dining experience under the stars with gourmet Australian cuisine and didgeridoo performance; booking required.
AUD230, 3h
Find Hotels in Uluru

Day 14: Flight to Cairns

Uluru to Cairns, Australia on May 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Resort

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your travel day.
Included, 30m

9:00am

Flight to Cairns via Alice Springs

Fly from Ayers Rock Airport to Cairns with a connection in Alice Springs; total travel approximately 5 hours.
AUD250, 5h

2:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Vivaldis

Indulge in Mediterranean and seafood dishes perfect after travel, situated in Cairns city centre.
AUD50, 1h

4:00pm

Exploration of Cairns Esplanade

Walk along the esplanade lagoon, markets, and parklands; great for relaxing by the sea.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ochre Restaurant

Savour modern Australian dishes with native ingredients in a stylish setting.
AUD70, 2h
Find Hotels in Uluru to Cairns

Day 15: Great Barrier Reef

Cairns, Australia on May 18, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for the reef trip.
Included, 30m

7:30am

Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Tour

Snorkelling, diving or glass-bottom boat tours with lunch included; operators depart from Cairns marina, tours operate roughly 7am to 5pm.
AUD220, 9h

6:30pm

Dinner at Dundee’s Restaurant on the Waterfront

Relax with a lively atmosphere and excellent seafood just after your reef adventure.
AUD60, 1h30m
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Day 16: Daintree Rainforest

Cairns, Australia on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Rusty's Market

Enjoy fresh tropical fruits and local coffee from Cairns' popular markets.
AUD20, 45m

8:30am

Daintree Rainforest Day Tour

Full-day tour to ancient rainforest with expert guides, wildlife spotting, and river cruises; tours depart early and last about 8-9 hours.
AUD180, 9h

6:30pm

Dinner at Prawn Star Seafood Restaurant

Experience dining on a boat on the marina offering fresh seafood and a unique setting.
AUD50, 1h30m
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Day 17: Cairns Leisure Day

Cairns, Australia on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffiend

Enjoy great coffee and breakfast in one of Cairns' best cafés.
AUD20, 1h

9:30am

Cairns Aquarium Visit

Explore Queensland’s aquatic wildlife including reef species, open 9am to 5pm.
AUD45, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Dundee’s

Casual lunch with views over the marina, specialising in local seafood.
AUD40, 1h

1:30pm

Relax at Cairns Lagoon

An artificial saltwater lagoon in the heart of the city for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Sunset from Mount Whitfield Conservation Park

Short hike with panoramic views of Cairns and Coral Sea behind the city.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Tamarind Restaurant

Taste sophisticated Asian fusion cuisine incorporating fresh local produce.
AUD70, 2h
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Day 18: Kuranda Village

Cairns, Australia on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare for a day visiting the rainforest village.
Included, 30m

8:30am

Scenic Railway to Kuranda

Take the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway through tropical rainforest; the train departs morning and takes about 1h 45m.
AUD50, 1h45m

10:30am

Explore Kuranda Markets and Butterfly Sanctuary

Visit local art, food markets and the Kuranda Butterfly Sanctuary open daily 9am to 5pm.
AUD20, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Kuranda Rainforest Café

Enjoy casual dining surrounded by rainforest atmosphere.
AUD30, 1h

2:30pm

Return via Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Fly back over the canopy of the UNESCO-listed rainforest with breathtaking views; open 8:30am to 4:30pm.
AUD60, 1h30m

5:00pm

Free Evening

Relax at the hotel or explore Cairns nightlife at your leisure.
Free, Evening
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Day 19: Cape Tribulation

Cairns, Australia on May 22, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Early meal to prepare for a long day tour to Cape Tribulation.
Included, 30m

8:00am

Cape Tribulation Day Trip

Visit the meeting point of rainforest and reef with guided walks, wildlife spotting and beach visits; tours depart early and last 10-11 hours.
AUD190, 11h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel or Takeaway

Relax after your tour with light dinner options at your accommodation.
AUD30, 1h
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Day 20: Departure Day

Cairns, Australia on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a last Australian breakfast and pack for departure.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Visit Rusty's Markets (if time allows)

Buy last-minute gifts and souvenirs from Cairns’ iconic market.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Transfer to Cairns Airport

Allow plenty of time for your international or domestic flight.
Taxi approx. AUD40, 1h
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