Comprehensive 5-Day Sydney and Melbourne Itinerary: Exploring Australia's Iconic Cities

Day 1: Sydney Highlights

Sydney, Australia on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria

Start your day with a farm-to-table breakfast in a charming garden setting, offering fresh coffee and delicious dishes using local ingredients.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Sydney Opera House Tour

Take a guided tour inside this iconic architectural masterpiece to learn about its history and design. Tours operate from 9am to 5pm.
AUD42, 1h30m

11:15am

Walk through the Royal Botanic Garden

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through botanical gardens offering stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Opera Bar

Dine with views of the harbour and experience modern Australian cuisine in a lively outdoor setting.
AUD45, 1h

2:00pm

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Book the famous BridgeClimb to enjoy panoramic views of the city. Climbs run daily from early morning to late afternoon.
AUD308, 3h

5:30pm

Relax at Circular Quay

Unwind by the water at Circular Quay, watching ferries come and go with views of the harbour and nearby eateries.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Quay Restaurant

Experience fine dining with some of Australia's best-known chefs offering innovative dishes overlooking Sydney Harbour. Reservations recommended.
AUD150, 2h

Day 2: Sydney Beaches & Culture

Sydney, Australia on June 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills, Surry Hills

Famous for their ricotta hotcakes and fresh juices, Bills is an iconic Sydney breakfast spot open from 7am.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Explore this scenic 6km coastal walk which passes stunning beaches, cliffs, and parks, open all day.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Coogee Pavilion

Enjoy fresh seafood and relaxed dining with ocean views, perfect for a midday break after the walk.
AUD40, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales

Discover Australian and international art in this premier gallery which is open from 10am to 5pm.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Explore The Rocks Historic District

Wander cobbled streets with heritage buildings, markets, and boutique shops in this lively district.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Glenmore Hotel

Enjoy casual dining with rooftop views of the Sydney skyline and harbour, offering classic Australian fare.
AUD50, 1h30m

Day 3: Transfer to Melbourne & City Stroll

Sydney to Melbourne, Australia on June 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Have a convenient breakfast near your accommodation before heading to the airport.
AUD20, 1h

9:00am

Flight from Sydney to Melbourne

Take a direct flight, approximately 1hr 30min duration, arriving at Melbourne Airport.
AUD150, 1h30m

11:30am

Check in to Melbourne accommodation

Settle into your hotel centrally located to explore Melbourne.
Varies, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Chin Chin

Enjoy popular modern Thai dishes in a vibrant atmosphere, open daily from 12pm.
AUD45, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Federation Square and ACMI

Visit Melbourne’s iconic cultural hub and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, open 10am-5pm.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk along the Yarra River

Relax on a scenic riverside stroll, enjoying cafes and views of the city skyline.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Cumulus Inc.

Dine at this modern Australian restaurant known for fresh, seasonal produce and lively atmosphere, open till 10pm.
AUD70, 2h

Day 4: Melbourne Arts & Markets

Melbourne, Australia on June 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hardware Societe

A French-inspired café known for tasty brunch and excellent coffee, open from 7am weekdays.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Visit Queen Victoria Market

Explore the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere, perfect for fresh produce and souvenirs, open 6am-3pm Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Market Lane Coffee and deli

Savour artisanal coffee and fresh deli sandwiches at the market.
AUD25, 1h

1:30pm

Visit National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

Browse extensive art collections from Australia and around the world, gallery open 10am-5pm.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Coffee at Degraves Street

Experience Melbourne’s famed café culture in a laneway filled with lively cafes.
AUD10, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Attica

Indulge in one of Australia’s top fine dining experiences, known for innovative cuisine and local ingredients. Booking essential.
AUD200, 2h

Day 5: Melbourne Gardens & Laneways

Melbourne, Australia on June 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Top Paddock

Enjoy a modern Australian breakfast with organic ingredients in a relaxed setting, open from 7am.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Explore Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne Gardens

Spend the morning in tranquil gardens showcasing diverse plant species and beautiful lakes, open from 7:30am to sunset.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Kettle Black

Chic café offering creative Australian dishes with great coffee, open 7am-3pm weekdays.
AUD35, 1h

1:30pm

Laneway Tour: Street Art & Shopping

Discover Melbourne’s famous laneways such as Hosier Lane for street art and boutique shops, perfect for an afternoon culture walk.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

High Tea at Hopetoun Tea Rooms

Enjoy traditional high tea in a historic setting on Queen Victoria Market site, open till 4:30pm.
AUD60, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Vue de monde

Finish your trip with a spectacular dinner offering panoramic views of Melbourne and exquisite cuisine. Reservations required.
AUD220, 2h