5-Day Cultural and Coastal Adventure from Melbourne to Sydney

Day 1: Melbourne City Culture

Melbourne, Australia on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Start your day with French-inspired breakfast at Hardware Société, known for its excellent coffee and creative dishes in a cozy setting.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

Explore Australia's oldest, largest art museum with a diverse collection from classic to contemporary works. Open daily 10am-5pm.
AUD15, 2h

11:45am

Walk through Federation Square

Experience this iconic urban space hosting galleries, museums, and cultural events along the Yarra River.
Free, 45m

12:45pm

Lunch at Chin Chin

Enjoy vibrant Southeast Asian flavors at Chin Chin, a popular Melbourne hotspot with a lively atmosphere. Open 12pm-11pm.
AUD35, 1h15m

2:15pm

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Take a leisurely stroll through these beautiful gardens featuring diverse plants and stunning city views. Open 7am-8pm.
Free, 1.5h

4:00pm

Visit Melbourne Aquarium

Discover fascinating marine life, from penguins to tropical fish, in this engaging aquarium. Open 10am-5pm.
AUD42, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Attica

Dine at Attica, a world-renowned restaurant focusing on modern Australian cuisine and native ingredients. Reservations recommended.
AUD150, 2h
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Day 2: Melbourne Neighborhoods

Melbourne, Australia on May 17, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Proud Mary

Enjoy excellent specialty coffee and a hearty breakfast in this popular Fitzroy cafe. Open 7am-3pm.
AUD25, 1h

9:45am

Street Art Tour in Hosier Lane

Take a guided or self-guided tour to see some of Melbourne’s best-known street art and murals, a vibrant creative expression area.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Queen Victoria Market

Browse the historic market with local food vendors, fresh produce, and unique gifts. Open 6am-3pm.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Vegie Bar

Savor delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes at this casual yet trendy spot in Fitzroy. Open 11:30am-11pm.
AUD30, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Shrine of Remembrance

Explore this war memorial with panoramic views of Melbourne from the balcony. Open 10am-5pm.
Free, 1h

3:15pm

Explore St Kilda Beach

Relax by the seaside, enjoy the pier and maybe spot some penguins at sunset. Open all day.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Stokehouse

Dine on upscale modern Australian cuisine with waterfront views at Stokehouse in St Kilda. Open 12pm-10pm.
AUD70, 2h
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Day 3: Coastal Drive to Wollongong

Melbourne to Wollongong, Australia on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick breakfast at your Melbourne hotel before departing for the coastal drive.
AUD20, 45m

8:00am

Travel to Wollongong

Drive or take a scenic flight from Melbourne to Wollongong (~8 hour drive or 1.5 hour flight plus transfers).
Varies, 8h drive / 2h flight total

4:00pm

Check-in and Rest

Check into your accommodation and relax after your journey. Recommended: Novotel Wollongong Northbeach.
AUD150, 1h

5:00pm

Visit Wollongong Botanic Garden

Explore the lovely gardens showcasing native and exotic plants. Open 9am-5pm.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Diggies

Enjoy a waterside meal with fresh seafood and modern Australian dishes at this popular coastal restaurant. Open 12pm-9pm.
AUD60, 1.5h
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Day 4: Sydney Iconic Sights

Wollongong to Sydney, Australia on May 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Besser Kitchen

Start with a tasty breakfast at this Wollongong favorite focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Open 7am-3pm.
AUD25, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Sydney

Drive or take a train (approx 1.5-2 hours) north to Sydney for a day exploring city landmarks.
AUD15, 2h

11:15am

Visit Sydney Opera House

Tour the iconic architectural masterpiece and learn about its cultural significance. Guided tours available 9am-5pm.
AUD42, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Opera Bar

Enjoy spectacular harbor views paired with casual dining and local wines right beside the Opera House.
AUD40, 1h

1:45pm

Walk the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Take a scenic stroll through this expansive garden with wonderful views of Sydney Harbour. Open 7am-7pm.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore The Rocks Historic District

Discover Sydney’s colonial history, markets, galleries, and cafes on a charming cobblestone street.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Quay Restaurant

Dine at one of Australia's top restaurants offering innovative menus paired with stunning views of the Harbour Bridge. Reservations required.
AUD180, 2h
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Day 5: Sydney Beaches and Harbor

Sydney, Australia on May 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bills in Surry Hills

Enjoy fresh, laid-back Australian breakfast fare at Bills, famous for ricotta hotcakes. Open 7am-3pm.
AUD28, 1h

9:00am

Visit Bondi Beach

Spend the morning walking the Bondi to Coogee coastal trail or just relax on the famous sandy beach. Open all day.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Bondi Trattoria

Savor Italian-inspired dishes with ocean views at this popular beachside restaurant. Open 12pm-10pm.
AUD45, 1h

2:00pm

Sydney Harbour Cruise

Take a 90-minute cruise to see Sydney’s iconic sights from the water including the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Departs Circular Quay.
AUD55, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Darling Harbour

Visit this lively harborside precinct filled with shops, cafes, and attractions like Sea Life Sydney Aquarium.
Varies, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Gantry Restaurant

End your trip with a dinner featuring fresh seafood and contemporary cuisine overlooking the harbor in Walsh Bay. Open 5:30pm-9:30pm.
AUD80, 2h
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