How many days do you need in Australia?

This itinerary covers 8 days in Australia, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Australia?

Plan your perfect 8 days trip to Australia. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

8-Day Explorative Australian Journey: Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Adventure

Day 1: Sydney City Exploration

Sydney, Australia on June 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills

Enjoy a classic Aussie breakfast famous for its ricotta pancakes and fresh seasonal produce in the casual and bright setting of Bills in Surry Hills.

AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Sydney Opera House Tour

Take a guided tour of the world-renowned Sydney Opera House to explore its striking architecture and fascinating history. Tours typically last around an hour.

AUD42, 1h

11:00am

Walk around Circular Quay and Royal Botanic Garden

Stroll along Circular Quay for amazing harbour views and then relax or explore the lush Royal Botanic Garden. Both are open all day with no entry fee.

AUD0, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Glenmore Hotel

Savour modern Australian cuisine with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge at this historic pub rooftop bar, a perfect spot to refuel before afternoon activities.

AUD40, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales

Explore Australia’s impressive collection of indigenous and contemporary art, open from 10am to 5pm daily with free entry to the main collection.

AUD0, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Quay Restaurant

Experience fine dining with spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour, offering innovative dishes showcasing native Australian ingredients. Reservation recommended.

AUD120, 2h

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Day 2: Sydney Harbour and Markets

Sydney, Australia on June 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria

Start your day at this rustic café known for fresh, wholesome breakfasts and its charming garden atmosphere.

AUD35, 1h

9:00am

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Embark on an iconic BridgeClimb adventure for panoramic views of Sydney and beyond. Climbs run from early morning to afternoon, booking in advance essential.

AUD299, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sydney Fish Market

Sample fresh seafood at Australia’s largest fish market, open from 7am to 4pm daily, ideal for a casual and delicious lunch experience.

AUD30, 1h

2:30pm

Explore The Rocks District

Discover the historic laneways, weekend markets (open 10am-5pm on weekends), and boutique shops set amid colonial architecture.

AUD0, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Mr. Wong

Enjoy contemporary Cantonese cuisine in an elegant setting in the heart of Sydney with a wide range of share plates and fantastic dim sum.

AUD70, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 3: Sydney to Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains, Australia on June 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start early with a hearty breakfast at your Sydney hotel before travelling to the Blue Mountains.

AUD25, 1h

9:00am

Train to Blue Mountains

Take a scenic 2-hour train journey from Sydney Central to Katoomba station, the gateway to the Blue Mountains.

AUD15, 2h

11:15am

Explore Echo Point and Three Sisters

Visit this iconic lookout of the spectacular Three Sisters rock formation with breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley, open all day with free access.

AUD0, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Leura Garage

Enjoy a fresh and innovative comfort food lunch in a lively bistro atmosphere in nearby Leura village.

AUD40, 1h

2:00pm

Scenic World Blue Mountains

Experience cable cars, skyways, and the world’s steepest railway to explore stunning views. Open from 9am to 5pm.

AUD49, 3h

5:30pm

Check-in and Dinner at The Hydro Majestic Hotel

Settle in at this historic hotel offering fantastic dinner options with valley views to end the day in luxury.

AUD85, 2h

Find Hotels in Blue Mountains

Day 4: Blue Mountains to Canberra

Canberra, Australia on June 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your hotel before starting your journey south to Canberra.

AUD25, 1h

9:00am

Drive from Blue Mountains to Canberra

Set out for a scenic 3-hour drive covering approximately 280 kilometres to the nation’s capital city, Canberra.

AUD0, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Monster Kitchen and Bar

Relish delicious modern Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh local produce in vibrant New Acton precinct.

AUD45, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Australian War Memorial

Explore Australia’s military history museum and memorial open daily from 10am to 5pm. It’s a deeply moving and educational experience.

AUD0, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Aubergine Restaurant

Dine at one of Canberra’s best restaurants, known for its contemporary cuisine and elegant atmosphere. Booking in advance recommended.

AUD110, 2h

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Day 5: Canberra Cultural Insights

Canberra, Australia on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at RUC Kitchen

A relaxed spot serving all-day breakfast with great coffee and fresh bites to start your day in Canberra.

AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Explore National Gallery of Australia

See extensive collections of Australian Aboriginal art and international works. The gallery opens at 10am and closes at 5pm.

AUD0, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Pialligo Estate

Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at this estate renowned for locally grown ingredients and beautiful grounds, just outside the city center.

AUD50, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Parliament House

Tour the iconic building where laws are made, with free guided tours available. Open 9am to 5pm weekdays.

AUD0, 1h

4:00pm

Walk around Lake Burley Griffin

A scenic walk or cycle around the lake offers stunning views of Canberra and its landmarks, open all day.

AUD0, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Helifax Kitchen

Casual dining with a modern Australian menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients in a cozy setting.

AUD65, 1.5h

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Day 6: Canberra to Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia on June 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early hearty breakfast before your journey to Melbourne by flight or road.

AUD25, 1h

8:30am

Flight to Melbourne

Catch a 1.5-hour morning flight from Canberra to Melbourne. Alternatively, a drive takes around 7 hours.

AUD150, 1.5h

11:00am

Check-in and Relax

Arrive in Melbourne, check into your hotel and freshen up for the afternoon.

AUD0, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Chin Chin

Experience vibrant Thai-inspired flavors at this popular and trendy Melbourne restaurant, reservations recommended.

AUD50, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Federation Square and ACMI

Visit the iconic cultural precinct and digital art museum, open daily with free access to the main galleries.

AUD0, 2h

4:30pm

Walk along Southbank Promenade

Enjoy riverside views and street performances while exploring unique cafes and shops along the Yarra River.

AUD0, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Vue de Monde

Dine in elegance atop the Rialto Tower with spectacular city views and innovative Australian cuisine. Booking essential.

AUD150, 2h

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Day 7: Melbourne City Highlights

Melbourne, Australia on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hardware Societe

A bustling café famous for fresh pastries and egg dishes, an ideal start to your Melbourne day.

AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Visit Melbourne Museum & Royal Exhibition Building

Open 10am to 5pm, explore natural history, indigenous culture, and the historic exhibition building on site.

AUD20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Delight in a wide variety of fresh produce, street food, and local delicacies at this iconic market open from 6am to 3pm.

AUD25, 1h

1:30pm

Laneways and Street Art Tour

Discover Melbourne’s vibrant laneways famous for street art, cafes, and boutique shops. Great for a guided walking tour or self-explore anytime.

AUD0, 2h

4:00pm

Coffee Break at Degraves Street

Experience Melbourne's world-famous coffee culture along this iconic laneway.

AUD10, 30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Flower Drum

Enjoy exquisite Cantonese dining with impeccable service at one of Melbourne’s premier fine dining establishments. Reservations needed.

AUD100, 2h

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Day 8: Great Ocean Road Day Trip

Melbourne, Australia on June 9, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a quick but nutritious breakfast before your full-day Great Ocean Road adventure.

AUD25, 30m

6:30am

Great Ocean Road Guided Tour

Join a day tour to explore famous landmarks like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and other natural wonders. Tours typically last 11-12 hours.

AUD150, 12h

7:00pm

Return and late Dinner at Hotel or Nearby

After a long day, enjoy a simple dinner at your hotel or a nearby casual restaurant to relax and recount your adventures.

AUD40, 1h

Find Hotels in Melbourne

Step 1 Outline Preview:

8-Day Explorative Australian Journey: Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Adventure

Day 1: Sydney City Exploration

8:00am

9:30am

11:00am

1:00pm

2:30pm

5:00pm

Day 2: Sydney Harbour and Markets

7:30am

9:00am

1:00pm

2:30pm

5:00pm

Day 3: Sydney to Blue Mountains

7:30am

9:00am

11:15am

12:30pm

2:00pm

5:30pm

Day 4: Blue Mountains to Canberra

7:30am

9:00am

12:30pm

2:00pm

5:00pm

Day 5: Canberra Cultural Insights

8:00am

9:30am

12:00pm

2:00pm

4:00pm

6:30pm

Day 6: Canberra to Melbourne

7:00am

8:30am

11:00am

12:30pm

2:00pm

4:30pm

6:30pm

Day 7: Melbourne City Highlights

8:00am

9:30am

12:00pm

1:30pm

4:00pm

6:00pm

Day 8: Great Ocean Road Day Trip

6:00am

6:30am

7:00pm

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