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15-Day Scenic and Cultural Journey through Sydney, Melbourne, and Gold Coast

Viewed by 83 travelers

Day 1: Arrival and Explore

Sydney, Australia on December 15, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria

Enjoy a farm-to-table breakfast experience in a charming garden setting with excellent coffee and fresh pastries.
AUD40, 1h30m

11:00am

Sydney Opera House Tour

Take a guided tour inside one of the world’s most iconic architectural marvels and learn about its history and design.
AUD42, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Opera Bar

Dine with a stunning view of Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House offering seasonal Australian cuisine.
AUD60, 1h

2:00pm

Royal Botanic Garden Walk

Stroll through lush gardens adjacent to the Opera House, ideal for relaxed sightseeing and photo opportunities.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore The Rocks Historic Area

Discover Sydney’s colonial past with cobblestone streets, markets (open on weekends), and quaint shops.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Quay Restaurant

Indulge in fine dining with panoramic harbour views and award-winning Australian cuisine.
AUD150+, 2h
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Day 2: Beach and Harbor

Sydney, Australia on December 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bondi Wholefoods

Start with a healthy, vegan-friendly breakfast near Bondi Beach to energize for the day.
AUD25, 1h

8:30am

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Enjoy the spectacular 6km coastal walk passing beaches, cliffs, and rock pools, open all day.
Free, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Coogee Pavilion

Relax after the walk with a casual lunch offering fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere.
AUD50, 1h

2:00pm

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Experience panoramic views of Sydney from atop the Harbour Bridge, suitable for adventurous visitors. Book in advance.
AUD308, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Mr. Wong

Savor exquisite Cantonese cuisine in a stylish downtown venue.
AUD80, 1h30m
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Day 3: Blue Mountains Day

Sydney, Australia on December 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick hearty breakfast to prepare for a day trip to the Blue Mountains.
AUD30, 30m

8:00am

Blue Mountains National Park Tour

Take a guided day trip to explore the Three Sisters, Scenic World’s cableway, and stunning bushwalks.
AUD150, 8h

5:30pm

Dinner at Darling Harbour

Return to Sydney and enjoy waterfront dining at Nick’s Seafood Restaurant.
AUD70, 1h30m
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Day 4: Cultural Explore

Sydney, Australia on December 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills Darlinghurst

Enjoy fluffy ricotta pancakes and signature breakfasts at this trendy café.
AUD35, 1h

9:30am

Art Gallery of New South Wales

Explore Australian and international art collections featuring indigenous works; open daily 10am-5pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Glenmore Hotel

Have a classic pub meal with rooftop views of the Sydney Opera House.
AUD40, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Taronga Zoo

See native Australian animals and global species with amazing harbour views, open 9:30am-5pm.
AUD48, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Sake Restaurant & Bar

Enjoy modern Japanese cuisine in a lively setting in The Rocks.
AUD70, 1h30m
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Day 5: Sydney to Melbourne

Sydney to Melbourne, Australia on December 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast before checkout and transfer to Sydney Airport.
AUD30, 30m

9:30am

Flight Sydney to Melbourne

Catch a short 1.5-hour flight to Melbourne, efficient to maximize time.
AUD100, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tipo 00

Enjoy handmade Italian pasta dishes in central Melbourne.
AUD40, 1h

1:30pm

Federation Square and ACMI

Visit Melbourne’s cultural hub featuring galleries and contemporary exhibitions, open daily 10am-5pm.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Walk along Southbank Promenade

Scenic riverside stroll with cafes and bars, great for sunset views.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Chin Chin

Popular spot for innovative Southeast Asian dishes with vibrant ambiance.
AUD70, 1h30m
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Day 6: Melbourne Laneways

Melbourne, Australia on December 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hardware Société

French-inspired breakfast with excellent coffee in a cozy laneway café.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Explore Melbourne Laneways

Discover street art, boutique shops, and hidden cafés in Degraves Street and Hosier Lane.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Movida

Eat Spanish tapas in this acclaimed Melbourne restaurant, booking recommended.
AUD60, 1h30m

2:00pm

Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building

Visit Australia's largest museum featuring natural history and indigenous cultures, open 10am-5pm.
AUD15, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Attica

Experience fine dining with an innovative menu by one of Australia’s top chefs. Reservations essential.
AUD180+, 2h
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Day 7: Great Ocean Road

Melbourne, Australia on December 21, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast to go

Grab a quick breakfast or coffee to take on the road for the scenic Great Ocean Road trip.
AUD15, 30m

7:00am

Great Ocean Road Day Tour

Full-day guided tour to see the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and other coastal highlights.
AUD130, 10h

7:30pm

Dinner back in Melbourne

Relax with casual dining at Cumulus Inc, known for seasonal modern Australian dishes.
AUD70, 1h30m
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Day 8: St Kilda and Relax

Melbourne, Australia on December 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at St ALi

Try specialty coffee and modern breakfast fare at this renowned South Melbourne cafe.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

St Kilda Beach and Pier

Walk along the beach, visit Luna Park amusement park (open 10am-5pm), and explore local shops.
Free; Luna Park AUD40 for rides, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Donovans

Enjoy waterside dining featuring fresh seafood and grill dishes.
AUD60, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at hotel or spa

Take time to rest or indulge in a spa treatment to recharge for upcoming travels.
AUD100+, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ezard

Experience contemporary Asian fusion fine dining in Melbourne’s city center.
AUD120, 2h
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Day 9: Travel to Gold Coast

Melbourne to Gold Coast, Australia on December 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading to Melbourne Airport.
AUD30, 30m

9:30am

Fly Melbourne to Gold Coast

Take a direct flight of approximately 2.5 hours to experience Queensland's renowned coastline.
AUD150, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Rick Shores

Dine beachside at Burleigh Heads with modern Asian-inspired menu.
AUD70, 1h30m

2:30pm

Relax at Burleigh Heads Beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and surf at a quieter, scenic beach.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Fish House

Enjoy premium seafood with ocean views in Burleigh Heads.
AUD100, 2h
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Day 10: Theme Park Fun

Gold Coast, Australia on December 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have an early breakfast to prepare for the theme park day ahead.
Included, 30m

8:30am

Visit Dreamworld

Spend the day enjoying rides, wildlife exhibits, and shows; park opens 10am-5pm, arrive early for lines.
AUD89, 7h

5:30pm

Dinner at Social Eating House + Bar

Relax with tapas-style dining and cocktails in Broadbeach.
AUD70, 1h30m
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Day 11: Christmas Day Relax

Gold Coast, Australia on December 25, 2025

8:30am

Christmas Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a festive breakfast buffet at your accommodation, typically available on holidays.
Included or AUD50, 2h

11:00am

Walk Paradise Point Park

Leisurely stroll through tranquil gardens and waterfront paths, perfect for a peaceful holiday walk.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Christmas Lunch at Palazzo Versace

Experience a luxury Christmas lunch near the water in a lavish setting; book in advance.
AUD150+, 2h

4:00pm

Relax by the Pool

Spend the afternoon unwinding with a swim or spa treatments at your hotel.
Included or AUD100+ spa, 3h

7:00pm

Light Dinner or Snacks

Opt for a casual evening meal or room service to maintain comfort after Christmas festivities.
AUD30, 1h
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Day 12: Nature and Markets

Gold Coast, Australia on December 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Elk Espresso

Enjoy strong coffee and creative breakfast dishes at this Gold Coast favorite.
AUD30, 1h

9:00am

Springbrook National Park

Day trip to the rainforest with waterfalls and glow worm caves, park open 7am-6pm.
AUD20 parking, 5h

3:30pm

Visit The Village Markets

Explore local art, fashion, and street food; markets open Sat 8am-3pm, Fri 4pm-8pm.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Etsu Izakaya

Japanese pub-style eating with waterfront views in Broadbeach.
AUD70, 1h30m
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Day 13: Surf and Explore

Gold Coast, Australia on December 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bam Bam Bakehouse

Start with one of the best bakeries on the coast for delicious pastries and coffee.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Surf Lesson at Main Beach

Book a beginner or intermediate surf lesson with local instructors at famous Main Beach.
AUD90, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Collective

Shared food hall with diverse food stalls spanning many cuisines, great for groups.
AUD40, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Meet native Australian animals like koalas and kangaroos in an interactive setting, open 8:30am-5pm.
AUD50, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Social Coast

Modern Australian dining with relaxed vibes and views of the Gold Coast skyline.
AUD80, 1h30m
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Day 14: Shopping and Nightlife

Gold Coast, Australia on December 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at The Cardamom Pod

Wholesome vegan and vegetarian breakfast options start your day right.
AUD25, 1h

10:00am

Pacific Fair Shopping Centre

Shop at one of the largest shopping centres in Queensland with trendy boutiques and big brands.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Kiyomi

High-end Japanese dining located at The Star Gold Coast, bring your appetite for innovative dishes.
AUD100, 1h30m

3:00pm

Relax at hotel or spa

Unwind or take an optional spa treatment before an active evening.
AUD100+, 2h

7:30pm

Night out at Elsewhere Bar

Experience Gold Coast nightlife with craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere downtown.
AUD50, 3h
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Day 15: Departure Prep

Gold Coast, Australia on December 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last morning meal at the hotel with relaxed pace.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Pack and Leisure

Spend the morning last-minute packing and leisure time at the beach or hotel.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Betty’s Burgers

Casual lunch with quality burgers to keep you fueled before travel.
AUD25, 1h

3:00pm

Transfer to Gold Coast Airport

Head to the airport for your departure flight or next destination.
AUD40 taxi, 1h
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