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15-Day Australia and New Zealand Adventure: From Sydney to Queenstown

Viewed by 92 travelers

Day 1: Explore Sydney

Sydney, Australia on December 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria

Start your day with an artisan coffee and a delicious breakfast in this charming café known for fresh, locally sourced food and a beautiful garden setting.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Sydney Opera House Tour

Explore this iconic architectural masterpiece with a guided tour explaining its history and design, offering incredible photo opportunities.
AUD42, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Take a leisurely walk across the bridge for panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline; perfect for photo captures.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Bennelong Restaurant

Dine within the Sydney Opera House with exquisite Australian cuisine featuring fresh seafood and elegant surroundings.
AUD70, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Royal Botanic Garden

Enjoy a relaxing stroll in these beautiful gardens adjacent to the Opera House, showcasing native plants and lovely harbour views.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Relax at Bondi Beach

Spend the late afternoon soaking up the sun or taking a swim at one of Australia’s most famous beaches.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

Enjoy innovative Italian-inspired dishes with stunning ocean views overlooking Bondi Beach.
AUD85, 2h
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Day 2: Sydney sights and culture

Sydney, Australia on December 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bourke Street Bakery

Taste freshly baked pastries and excellent coffee at this popular local bakery.
AUD20, 1h

9:30am

Taronga Zoo Sydney

Visit this world-class zoo, famous for its conservation efforts and close-up views of native Australian animals.
AUD49, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Zoo’s Eatery

Enjoy casual dining with views of Sydney Harbour inside the zoo grounds.
AUD30, 1h

2:30pm

Explore The Rocks Historic District

Wander charming cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and museums in this iconic Sydney neighbourhood.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Sunset Cocktails at Opera Bar

Sip cocktails with unbeatable views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge as the sun sets.
AUD25, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mr. Wong

Savor Cantonese-style cuisine in a stylish setting, enjoy an array of dumplings and Peking duck.
AUD80, 2h
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Day 3: Day trip Blue Mountains

Near Sydney, Australia on December 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or grab takeaway

Fuel up early with a quick breakfast before the day trip to the Blue Mountains.
AUD15, 30m

8:00am

Blue Mountains Guided Tour

Join a day tour to explore the dramatic scenery, Katoomba Falls, Three Sisters rock formation, and Scenic World attractions.
AUD150, 8h

5:30pm

Return to Sydney and rest

Return from the Blue Mountains for leisure time and recuperation.
Included in tour, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Native Restaurant

Experience modern Australian cuisine focusing on native ingredients and bushfood flavors.
AUD90, 2h
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Day 4: Travel to Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia on December 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Enjoy a French-inspired breakfast in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, famous for its creative dishes.
AUD25, 1h

10:00am

Flight Sydney to Melbourne

Take a short morning flight to Melbourne, approx 1.5hrs duration.
AUD120, 1h30m

12:00pm

Check into hotel and lunch at Degraves Street

Settle into your hotel, then have lunch at the iconic laneway full of cafés and bistros offering gourmet sandwiches and coffee.
AUD30, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Federation Square and ACMI

Explore Melbourne’s cultural hub, including the Australian Centre for the Moving Image with interactive exhibits.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Walk along Yarra River

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, soaking in city views and street art.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Chin Chin

Experience lively atmosphere and innovative Southeast Asian cuisine, a Melbourne dining institution.
AUD70, 2h
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Day 5: Melbourne & Surrounds

Melbourne, Australia on December 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Higher Ground

Kickstart the day with brunch at this stylish café known for its creative menu and vast coffee selection.
AUD25, 1h

9:00am

Day trip Great Ocean Road

Join a guided tour for spectacular coastal drives featuring the Twelve Apostles, wildlife spotting, and rainforest walks.
AUD160, 10h

7:00pm

Return to Melbourne and dinner at Flower Drum

Indulge in refined Cantonese cuisine at this award-winning restaurant, known for impeccable service and flavor.
AUD90, 2h
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Day 6: Travel to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on December 6, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have an early breakfast before heading to the airport.
Included in accommodation, 30m

8:00am

Flight Melbourne to Auckland

Fly to Auckland, New Zealand; flight duration approx. 3.5 hours.
NZD350, 3h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Federal Delicatessen

Try classic New Zealand meat specialties and deli favorites in a relaxed downtown setting.
NZD40, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Auckland War Memorial Museum

Learn about New Zealand’s history, Maori culture, and natural environment in this iconic museum set in the Domain park.
NZD28, 2h

5:00pm

Walk up Mount Eden Summit

Enjoy an easy hike to the top of an extinct volcano providing panoramic city and harbour views.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar

Savor fresh New Zealand seafood and vibrant local flavors in a casual atmosphere.
NZD65, 2h
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Day 7: Auckland Adventures

Auckland, New Zealand on December 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bestie Cafe

Enjoy a healthy and hearty breakfast with fresh produce and specialty coffee in a cozy setting.
NZD20, 1h

9:30am

Day trip Waiheke Island

Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for stunning beaches, vineyards, and art galleries. Wine tasting tours run 10am to late afternoon.
NZD60 ferry, NZD100 tour, 7h

5:00pm

Return to Auckland

Relax back in Auckland after the day’s island exploration.
Included, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Grove

Experience contemporary New Zealand cuisine with a focus on seasonal, garden-to-table dishes in an award-winning restaurant.
NZD90, 2h
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Day 8: Auckland to Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on December 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast before travel.
Included, 30m

9:30am

Flight Auckland to Queenstown

Fly to Queenstown, the adventure capital; flight approx. 2h10m.
NZD180, 2h10m

12:00pm

Lunch at Fergburger

Try the famous gourmet burgers at this popular local spot beloved by travelers and locals alike.
NZD20, 1h

1:30pm

Walk around Lake Wakatipu

Relax with a scenic stroll around the beautiful lake and take in the Remarkables mountain range views.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Skyline Queenstown Gondola

Take a scenic gondola ride up Bob’s Peak for breathtaking panoramas and optional luge rides.
NZD45, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Rata

Enjoy fine dining featuring modern New Zealand cuisine by celebrity chef Josh Emett.
NZD85, 2h
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 9: Queenstown Adventure

Queenstown, New Zealand on December 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe & Larder

Start your adventure day with a vibrant breakfast offering fresh juices and specialty coffees.
NZD20, 1h

9:00am

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Experience thrilling jet boat rides in the Shotover River Canyons, an iconic Queenstown adrenaline activity.
NZD159, 1h

11:00am

Visit Queenstown Gardens

Relax amidst lakeside gardens featuring walking trails, sculptures, and botanical beauty.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Patagonia Chocolates

Enjoy handcrafted chocolates and light bites by the lake in a cozy café.
NZD25, 1h

2:00pm

Optional Bungee Jump or Relaxation

For thrill-seekers, do the Kawarau Bridge bungee jump. Alternatively, relax at a local spa or explore local shops.
Bungee NZD205, Spa around NZD100, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Dine on premium steaks and seafood in an atmospheric setting near the waterfront.
NZD90, 2h
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 10: Milford Sound Daytrip

Queenstown Area, New Zealand on December 10, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Eat a hearty breakfast before the long day ahead.
Included, 30m

7:00am

Milford Sound Coach and Cruise Tour

Travel by coach to Milford Sound, enjoy a scenic cruise to experience stunning fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife including seals and dolphins.
NZD250, 12h

7:00pm

Return and Dinner at The Bunker

Wind down with sophisticated New Zealand cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting.
NZD80, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Queenstown Area

Day 11: Relax & Explore Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on December 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bespoke Kitchen

Enjoy fresh, local produce with vegan and gluten-free options for a healthy start.
NZD22, 1h

10:00am

Wine Tasting at Gibbston Valley

Visit renowned vineyards in Gibbston Valley, including tasting rooms and vineyard tours with spectacular scenery.
NZD50 tasting fee, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Amisfield Bistro

Dine on seasonal dishes paired with award-winning wines in a relaxed vineyard setting.
NZD65, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Arrowtown

Visit this charming historic gold mining town with boutique shopping and cafes.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Jervois Steak House

Savor prime cuts and excellent New Zealand lamb in a stylish riverside location.
NZD90, 2h
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 12: Queenstown to Sydney

Sydney, Australia on December 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Queenstown before departure.
Included, 30m

10:00am

Flight Queenstown to Sydney

Fly back to Sydney, duration approx. 3h20m.
AUD300, 3h20m

2:00pm

Lunch at Opera Bar

Welcome back to Sydney with a waterfront lunch and views of the Opera House.
AUD45, 1h

3:30pm

Relax or Shopping in Sydney CBD

Spend the afternoon shopping in Pitt Street Mall or relaxing in Hyde Park.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Quay Restaurant

Celebrate your trip with a fine dining experience on Sydney Harbour showcasing modern Australian cuisine.
AUD150, 2h
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 13: Sydney Leisure Day

Sydney, Australia on December 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills

Famous for ricotta pancakes and fresh cafe fare, ideal for a relaxed morning.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Visit Art Gallery of New South Wales

Explore an impressive collection of Australian and international art in a prestigious gallery setting.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Opera Kitchen

Enjoy casual dining with outdoor views of the Sydney Opera House and harbour.
AUD40, 1h

1:30pm

Take ferry to Manly Beach

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride and explore the relaxed beach town with shops and cafes.
AUD15 ferry, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Sydney and rest

Head back to the city for a restful evening.
Included, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tetsuya’s

Indulge in a legendary degustation menu blending Japanese and French cuisine in an elegant setting.
AUD220, 3h
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 14: Sydney Day Trips

Sydney, Australia on December 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Reuben Hills

Start with world-class coffee and creative breakfast dishes in a popular café.
AUD25, 1h

9:00am

Day trip to Hunter Valley Wine Region

Join a full-day wine tour to explore vineyards, wine tastings, and gourmet food in one of Australia’s premier wine regions.
AUD180, 9h

6:30pm

Return to Sydney and light dinner at The Fish Market

Sample fresh seafood from Sydney Fish Market for a casual and delicious end to the day.
AUD35, 1h
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 15: Departure Day

Sydney, Australia on December 15, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Sydney and prepare for departure.
Included, 30m

9:00am

Souvenir shopping and last sightseeing

Take a final stroll around the city, shop for souvenirs or revisit a favorite spot.
Variable, 2h

11:30am

Airport Transfer

Head to Sydney International Airport for your flight home or onward travel.
AUD50, 1h
Find Hotels in Sydney
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