Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

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

Viewed by 77 travelers

Day 1: Explore Sydney

Sydney, Australia on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Grounds of the City

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this popular café known for fresh, local produce and excellent coffee in Sydney's CBD.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Visit Sydney Opera House

Tour this iconic architectural masterpiece and learn about its history and design. Book a guided tour to appreciate its cultural significance.
AUD42, 1h

11:00am

Walk around Circular Quay and The Rocks

Explore the historic Rocks district, enjoy views of the Harbour Bridge and soak in the lively atmosphere at Circular Quay.
Free, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Opera Bar

Dine with stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes.
AUD45, 1h

2:30pm

Royal Botanic Garden

Stroll through beautifully manicured gardens and relax while enjoying harbour views and diverse plant collections.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Dinner at Quay Restaurant

Experience fine dining with spectacular views of Sydney Harbour. Booking in advance is recommended.
AUD120, 2h
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 2: Sydney Sights & Harbour

Sydney, Australia on May 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bills

Known for its ricotta hotcakes and fresh juices, Bills is a great spot to energize before a busy day.
AUD30, 1h

9:00am

Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge

Join a guided climb for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and harbour, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
AUD308, 3.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Sydney

Enjoy modern Australian cuisine with spectacular views from the rooftop terrace.
AUD50, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Museum of Contemporary Art

Explore Australian and international contemporary artworks in a stunning harbourside setting.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Ferry to Manly Beach

Take the scenic ferry ride across Sydney Harbour to Manly, enjoy the beach walk or surf.
AUD15 (return), 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Manly Wharf Bar & Grill

Relax and savour seafood by the water in a casual setting after return ferry trip.
AUD45, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 3: Blue Mountains Adventure

Blue Mountains, Australia on May 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Leura Garage

Enjoy fresh local dishes in a cosy café in Leura village before your Blue Mountains exploration.
AUD25, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Blue Mountains National Park

Drive or take the train approx. 2 hours west of Sydney to the Blue Mountains National Park.
AUD15 transport, 2h

10:30am

Echo Point & Three Sisters

Visit the famous rock formation and enjoy sweeping vistas across the Jamison Valley.
Free, 1h

11:30am

Scenic World Experience

Ride the Scenic Railway, Skyway and Cableway to experience the rainforest and valley from multiple perspectives.
AUD49, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Yellow Deli

Dine in a cosy, rustic setting offering organic and wholesome meals.
AUD30, 1h

3:00pm

Wentworth Falls Walk

Walk along marked trails to see waterfalls and beautiful natural scenery, suitable for moderate fitness levels.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Darley's Restaurant

Fine dining in a historic manor, perfect for a relaxing and elegant dinner.
AUD85, 2h

8:30pm

Overnight in Blue Mountains

Stay overnight in a boutique hotel or mountain lodge in Katoomba or Leura.
AUD150, Overnight
Find Hotels in Blue Mountains

Day 4: Blue Mountains to Melbourne

Blue Mountains to Melbourne, Australia on May 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at your accommodation

Early breakfast before travelling to Melbourne.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Travel back to Sydney airport

Drive or train back to Sydney airport to catch your flight to Melbourne.
AUD30 transport, 2h

11:30am

Flight to Melbourne

Fly from Sydney to Melbourne (approximately 1.5 hours).
AUD150, 1.5h

1:30pm

Lunch at Chin Chin

Enjoy modern Asian fusion cuisine in one of Melbourne's most popular eateries.
AUD40, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Federation Square and ACMI

Explore Melbourne's cultural hub and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Walk along Southbank Promenade

Relax by the Yarra River with shops, cafes, and street entertainers.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cumulus Inc.

Contemporary dining with seasonal dishes in a lively atmosphere.
AUD70, 2h
Find Hotels in Blue Mountains to Melbourne

Day 5: Melbourne Culture & Food

Melbourne, Australia on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Famous for French-style breakfast and excellent coffee in the heart of Melbourne.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Visit National Gallery of Victoria

Explore Australia's oldest and most visited art museum with diverse collections.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Sample fresh produce, street food, and enjoy the lively market atmosphere (open 6am-3pm).
AUD20, 1h

1:30pm

Stroll through Fitzroy

Explore Melbourne’s bohemian neighbourhood with vintage shops, street art, and cafés.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Coffee break at Proud Mary

Experience one of Melbourne’s best specialty coffee shops.
AUD10, 0.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Attica

Indulge in one of Australia's leading fine-dining experiences focusing on native ingredients (book ahead).
AUD150, 2.5h
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 6: Great Ocean Road Begin

Melbourne to Great Ocean Road, Australia on May 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at your hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for your road trip.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive Great Ocean Road to Apollo Bay

Begin the scenic drive along the coast with stops for photo opportunities and short walks.
Fuel cost approx AUD50, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Apollo Bay Seafood Café

Fresh seafood and local dishes with waterfront views.
AUD35, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Otway National Park

Walk among the ancient rainforest, visit waterfalls, and spot native wildlife.
Free entry, 2h

4:30pm

Check into accommodation in Apollo Bay

Relax and enjoy the coastal village atmosphere.
AUD130, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at La Bimba

Contemporary Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
AUD60, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Melbourne to Great Ocean Road

Day 7: Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles

Apollo Bay to Port Campbell, Australia on May 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Rusty Water Brewery Cafe

Delicious breakfast menu with ocean views to start your day.
AUD25, 1h

8:30am

Drive to 12 Apostles

Visit the iconic limestone stacks; best to arrive early to avoid crowds.
Free, 1h

10:00am

Loch Ard Gorge and Gibson Steps

Explore beautiful coastal formations and access the beach via steps down cliffs.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Forage on the Foreshore

Seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients near Port Campbell.
AUD35, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Port Campbell National Park

Enjoy stunning views and easy walks along the coastline.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Check-in and relax at accommodation in Port Campbell

Take some time to rest after your day of exploring.
AUD120, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at 12 Rocks Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and steaks in a cosy atmosphere.
AUD50, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Apollo Bay to Port Campbell

Day 8: Travel to Adelaide

Port Campbell to Adelaide, Australia on May 31, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Fuel up before a travel day.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Adelaide

Long drive or consider flying from Melbourne to Adelaide, approximately 2 hours flight.
Flight approx AUD120, 2.5h total

1:00pm

Lunch at Central Market

Explore the vibrant Adelaide Central Market, sampling diverse fresh produce and street food.
AUD25, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Art Gallery of South Australia

Discover South Australian and international art holdings in a beautiful building.
Free, 1.5h

4:30pm

Walk along River Torrens

Enjoy a scenic riverside stroll or take a paddleboat on the river.
AUD10 paddleboat, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Magnus Restaurant

Experience modern Australian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
AUD65, 2h
Find Hotels in Port Campbell to Adelaide

Day 9: Barossa Valley Wine Tour

Barossa Valley, Australia on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Loose Caboose

Enjoy breakfast near the Adelaide Railway Station before heading to Barossa.
AUD20, 1h

9:00am

Full Day Barossa Valley Wine Tour

Join a guided tour visiting famous wineries like Penfolds and Jacob's Creek, including tastings and lunch.
AUD200, 8h

6:00pm

Return to Adelaide - Dinner at Peel Street

Enjoy contemporary dining with Asian influences to end your day.
AUD60, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Barossa Valley

Day 10: Fly to Cairns

Adelaide to Cairns, Australia on June 2, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

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

9:00am

Flight to Cairns

Fly to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef (approximately 3 hours flight).
AUD250, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Caffiend

Trendy café with excellent coffee and fresh meals in Cairns.
AUD25, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Relax or swim in the popular lagoon and explore the tropical waterfront area.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Ochre Restaurant

Taste native Australian ingredients combined with modern dishes in Cairns.
AUD60, 2h
Find Hotels in Adelaide to Cairns

Day 11: Great Barrier Reef

Cairns, Australia on June 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at your hotel

Early breakfast before reef tour departure.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Great Barrier Reef Day Trip

Full day snorkelling and diving tour to the reef including equipment and lunch (operates 8am-5pm).
AUD220, 8h

6:30pm

Dinner at Nu Nu Restaurant

Enjoy modern Australian cuisine with tropical flare overlooking the reef lagoon.
AUD55, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Cairns

Day 12: Rainforest & Wildlife

Cairns, Australia on June 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Rusty's Market

Sample fresh tropical fruits and local breakfast delights at Cairns’ farmers market (open 6am-4pm Wed-Sun).
AUD15, 1h

9:00am

Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail

Ride the historic railway to Kuranda village, explore markets, then return via scenic Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
AUD60, 5h

3:30pm

Visit Cairns Wildlife Dome

Experience Australian wildlife including koalas and birds in a tropical indoor wildlife experience.
AUD30, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Salsa Bar & Grill

Lively atmosphere with eclectic grilled and seafood options.
AUD50, 2h
Find Hotels in Cairns

Day 13: Travel to Brisbane

Cairns to Brisbane, Australia on June 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with hotel breakfast and prepare for your flight.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Flight to Brisbane

Fly to Brisbane, Queensland’s capital city (approximately 2.5 hours).
AUD180, 2.5h

12:30pm

Lunch at Eat Street Northshore

Enjoy diverse international foods in a vibrant outdoor market setting.
AUD25, 1.5h

2:30pm

Explore South Bank Parklands

Relax in the gardens, visit the man-made beach or galleries including Queensland Art Gallery (QAGOMA).
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Stokehouse Q

Contemporary dining overlooking the Brisbane River.
AUD70, 2h
Find Hotels in Cairns to Brisbane

Day 14: Brisbane City & Lone Pine

Brisbane, Australia on June 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at King Arthur Cafe

Known for its fresh and creative breakfast menu in West End.
AUD25, 1h

9:00am

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Spend the morning meeting Australia's iconic wildlife and hand-feed kangaroos.
AUD40, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Gardens Club

Enjoy a relaxed lunch surrounded by subtropical gardens.
AUD40, 1h

2:00pm

Mount Coot-tha Lookout

Drive or hike to panoramic views of Brisbane city skyline and surrounds.
Free, 2h

5:30pm

Explore Fortitude Valley

Brisbane's entertainment district filled with bars, shops and night-life.
Free entry, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Gerard's Bistro

Creative Middle Eastern inspired sharing plates in a stylish setting.
AUD60, 2h
Find Hotels in Brisbane

Day 15: Moreton Island Day Trip

Brisbane, Australia on June 7, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early start with breakfast before island adventure.
Included, 1h

7:30am

Moreton Island tour

Full day guided tour including snorkelling, sand tobogganing and feeding wild dolphins (operates 7:30am-5:30pm).
AUD180, 10h

6:30pm

Dinner back in Brisbane at E'cco Bistro

Finish your day with modern Australian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
AUD75, 2h
Find Hotels in Brisbane

Day 16: Brisbane to Sydney

Brisbane to Sydney, Australia on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Last breakfast in Brisbane before heading south.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Flight to Sydney

Fly back to Sydney for your last leg of the trip (approx 1.5 hour flight).
AUD150, 1.5h

11:30am

Lunch at Din Tai Fung

Enjoy world-famous dumplings and Taiwanese dishes in Sydney's CBD.
AUD30, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Taronga Zoo

Spend the afternoon with Australian wildlife and breathtaking harbour views (opens 9am-5pm).
AUD47, 3h

5:00pm

Dinner at Bennelong Restaurant

Dine inside the Sydney Opera House with spectacular harbour views.
AUD130, 2h
Find Hotels in Brisbane to Sydney

Day 17: Sydney Beaches Day

Sydney, Australia on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bondi Wholefoods Cafe

Nutritious breakfast with ocean views near Bondi Beach.
AUD25, 1h

9:00am

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Stunning 6-km coastal walk with beaches, cliffs and cafes along the way; allow approx. 2.5-3 hours.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Coogee Pavilion

Relax with panoramic beach views and modern Australian fare.
AUD40, 1h

2:00pm

Relax on Coogee Beach

Swim, sunbathe or explore nearby shops and cafes.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Sydney CBD

Head back for your final evening in the city.
AUD5 transport, 1h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Aria Sydney

Celebrate your trip with a memorable fine dining experience with harbour views.
AUD150, 2h
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 18: Departure Day

Sydney, Australia on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before packing.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Relax at Sydney Harbour

Take a final stroll or coffee at Circular Quay to soak in the harbour views one last time.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Check-out and transfer to Sydney airport

Make your way to the airport for your departure flight, allowing plenty of time.
AUD50 transport, 1h
Find Hotels in Sydney
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About Australia

Best Australia Travel Deals
Travel Deals
Trip Packing List: Australia (Late February — Southern Hemisphere late summer / cyclone season in north)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: Hong Kong (4 days) + Australia road trip Sydney→Brisbane (June–July)
Packing List
Australia Weather & Climate Guide: Year-Round Planning
Weather Guide
Full Guide to Michelin Star Cities: 2025 Updated List
Travel Expert
Global Michelin Cities & US Travel Tiers from New York
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Australia Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go