Australia’s East Coast is a stunning stretch of diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and unforgettable natural wonders.

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic coastal drives.

Get ready for an epic adventure Down Under, exploring the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique cultures of Australia and New Zealand! 🌏✈️ From the iconic beaches of Sydney to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, this travel guide will take you through the best stops and hidden gems in these two incredible countries.Stops along AustraliaSydneyStart your Australian adventure in Sydney, a bustling metropolis known for its iconic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene.SightsSydney Opera House: Tour this architectural marvel, catch a performance, or simply admire the views from the nearby Royal Botanic Garden.Sydney Harbour Bridge: Climb to the top for panoramic views of the harbor, or walk across for a more grounded experience.Bondi Beach: Relax on the famous golden sands, take a surfing lesson, or walk the scenic Bondi to Coogee coastal path.Taronga Zoo: Get up close with native Australian wildlife and enjoy stunning views of the Sydney skyline from this harborside zoo.Blue Mountains (2-hour drive from Sydney)Escape to the Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and cascading waterfalls.SightsThree Sisters: Visit this iconic rock formation and learn about the Aboriginal legend behind its name.Scenic World: Experience the Scenic Railway, Skyway, and Cableway for breathtaking views and unique perspectives of the mountains.Jenolan Caves: Explore these stunning limestone caves, some of the oldest and most spectacular in the world.Leura Village: Wander through this charming village, known for its beautiful gardens, boutique shops, and cozy cafes.Melbourne (1.5-hour flight from Sydney or a day’s drive)Next, head to Melbourne, known for its art, coffee culture, and diverse neighborhoods.SightsFederation Square: Explore this vibrant cultural precinct, home to museums, galleries, and a variety of events.Royal Botanic Gardens: Wander through these beautifully landscaped gardens, featuring over 8,500 plant species.Queen Victoria Market: Shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and souvenirs at this iconic market.Street Art in Hosier Lane: Discover Melbourne's famous street art scene in this colorful laneway.Great Ocean Road (3-hour drive from Melbourne)Drive along the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes, offering breathtaking ocean views and charming seaside towns.SightsTwelve Apostles: Marvel at these towering limestone stacks rising from the ocean along the rugged coastline.Loch Ard Gorge: Explore this dramatic gorge, named after a shipwreck, with its stunning rock formations and secluded beach.Bells Beach: Famous for its surf breaks, this beach is a must-visit for surfing enthusiasts.Otway National Park: Discover lush rainforests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife in this beautiful national park.Adelaide (1.5-hour flight from Melbourne or a 7-hour drive)Visit Adelaide, known for its festivals, food, and wine, as well as its proximity to some of Australia’s best wine regions.SightsAdelaide Central Market: Explore one of the largest undercover fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere.Art Gallery of South Australia: Discover a diverse collection of art, from Indigenous works to contemporary pieces.Adelaide Botanic Garden: Wander through these beautifully landscaped gardens featuring exotic plants and historic buildings.Barossa Valley: Take a day trip to this renowned wine region, famous for its Shiraz and gourmet food.Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park (2.5-hour flight from Adelaide)Discover the spiritual heart of Australia with a visit to Uluru and the nearby Kata Tjuta rock formations.SightsUluru (Ayers Rock): Watch the sunrise or sunset over this iconic monolith and take a guided tour to learn about its cultural significance.Kata Tjuta (The Olgas): Hike through the Valley of the Winds and explore these impressive rock formations.Aboriginal Cultural Tours: Gain insight into the traditional stories, art, and culture of the Anangu people.Field of Light: Experience this magical art installation by Bruce Munro, with thousands of lights illuminating the desert landscape.Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef (3-hour flight from Uluru)Dive into the world’s largest coral reef system, teeming with marine life and offering unparalleled snorkeling and diving experiences.SightsSnorkeling and Diving: Explore the vibrant coral gardens and encounter an array of marine species.Whitsunday Islands: Sail around these stunning islands, relax on Whitehaven Beach, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.Reef Cruises: Take a day cruise to various reef sites for a full underwater adventure.Daintree Rainforest: Visit one of the world’s oldest rainforests, home to unique flora and fauna.Stops along New ZealandAucklandAuckland, the "City of Sails," is known for its stunning harbors, vibrant urban life, and proximity to beautiful islands.SightsSky Tower: Take in panoramic views of the city from the observation deck or enjoy a meal in the revolving restaurant.Auckland War Memorial Museum: Learn about New Zealand’s history, culture, and natural environment through engaging exhibits.Waiheke Island: Take a ferry to this island paradise, known for its vineyards, beaches, and outdoor adventures.Auckland Domain: Explore the city’s oldest park, home to beautiful gardens, walking trails, and the Wintergardens.Rotorua (3-hour drive from Auckland)Experience the geothermal wonders and rich Maori culture of Rotorua, located on New Zealand’s North Island.SightsTe Puia: Discover bubbling mud pools, geysers, and Maori cultural performances at this geothermal park and cultural center.Polynesian Spa: Relax in natural hot mineral pools with stunning views of Lake Rotorua.Redwoods Forest: Walk or bike through this serene forest, featuring towering Californian redwoods.Tamaki Maori Village: Enjoy an evening of Maori storytelling, traditional performances, and a delicious hangi feast.Taupo (1-hour drive from Rotorua)Just a short drive from Rotorua, Taupo is known for its stunning lake, outdoor activities, and geothermal attractions.SightsLake Taupo: Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in New Zealand’s largest lake.Huka Falls: Witness the powerful, thundering waters of this famous waterfall.Craters of the Moon: Explore the geothermal activity of this park, with its steaming vents and bubbling mud pools.Taupo Bungy: Get your adrenaline fix with a bungee jump over the Waikato River.Wellington (5-hour drive from Taupo)Conclude your journey on the North Island in Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, known for its creative energy and beautiful harbor.SightsTe Papa Tongarewa: Explore New Zealand’s national museum, featuring interactive exhibits and extensive collections.Wellington Cable Car: Ride the historic cable car to the Botanic Garden and enjoy panoramic views of the city.Cuba Street: Discover the eclectic shops, cafes, and street art in this vibrant cultural precinct.Zealandia: Visit this urban eco-sanctuary, home to native wildlife and dedicated to restoring Wellington’s forest and freshwater ecosystems.Nelson (3-hour ferry from Wellington to Picton, then a 2-hour drive)Take the ferry to the South Island and head to Nelson, known for its sunny climate, art scene, and outdoor adventures.SightsAbel Tasman National Park: Hike or kayak along the stunning coastline, with golden beaches and clear blue waters.World of Wearable Art & Classic Cars Museum: Explore this unique museum featuring incredible wearable art and an impressive collection of classic cars.Nelson Market: Visit this vibrant market for local arts, crafts, and fresh produce.Miyazu Japanese Garden: Relax in these beautifully landscaped gardens, a symbol of Nelson's sister-city relationship with Miyazu, Japan.Christchurch (6-hour drive from Nelson)Continue your South Island journey in Christchurch, a city known for its English heritage, beautiful gardens, and resilience in the face of natural disasters.SightsCanterbury Museum: Discover the rich history of the Canterbury region through a wide range of exhibits.Botanic Gardens: Stroll through these stunning gardens, featuring a diverse collection of plants and beautiful floral displays.Quake City: Learn about the impact of the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes and the ongoing recovery efforts.Christchurch Gondola: Take a ride to the top of Mount Cavendish for panoramic views of the city, mountains, and harbor.Queenstown (6-hour drive from Christchurch)Head to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, set against the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps.SightsBungee Jumping: Take the plunge from the Kawarau Bridge, the world’s first commercial bungee jump site.Shotover Jet: Experience an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride through the Shotover River canyons.Skyline Queenstown: Ride the gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for breathtaking views and exciting luge rides.Milford Sound: Take a day trip to this fjord, known for its stunning scenery and wildlife, with options for cruises and scenic flights.Good to KnowLanguage: English is the official language in both Australia and New Zealand.

Tasmania, the island state of Australia, is located in the southernmost part of the country.

Take part in the festive spirit that grips Sydney during the holiday season.

Spanning over 200 kilometers along Western Australia’s pristine coastline, the Indian Ocean Drive offers one of the most picturesque road trips in the region.

Perth is among the world's most remote cities, with the nearest major urban center over 2000 km (1200 miles) away.

Kakadu National Park is a unique and stunning wilderness area located in the Northern Territory of Australia.

Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is a charming city with a lot to offer.

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city on the east coast of Australia.

You are planning a trip to Down Under and need some tips for #Sydney? Sydney is one of the largest cities in Australia and its landmark the Opera House has become the most famous sight in the country.

Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city, is known for its diverse culture, world-class dining, stunning street art, and thriving shopping scenes.

Pack your adventure spirit and a camera with extra batteries, because we're off to Freycinet National Park, Tasmania's crown jewel, where the beaches are so stunning, you'll think your eyes are playing tricks on you.

Embark on a journey to Victoria, Australia, a state where rugged coastlines meet bustling cityscapes and tranquil countryside.

Torquay is a seaside resort in Victoria, Australia, which faces Bass Strait, 21 km south of Geelong and is the gateway to the Great Ocean Road.

Anglesea is a town in Victoria, Australia.

Port Campbell is a coastal town in Victoria, Australia.

Aireys Inlet is a small coastal inlet and town located on the Great Ocean Road, southwest of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

Apollo Bay is a coastal town in southwestern Victoria, Australia.

Lorne is a seaside town on Louttit Bay in Victoria, Australia.

Yungaburra is a rural town and locality in the Tablelands Region, Queensland, Australia.

Byron Bay is a beachside town located in the far-northeastern corner of the state of New South Wales, Australia on Bundjalung Country.

Cairns is a city in Queensland, Australia, on the tropical north east coast of Far North Queensland.

Sydney is the capital city of the state of New South Wales, and the most populous city in Australia.

Fraser Island, or K’gari, is a World Heritage-listed sand island along the south-eastern coast in the Wide Bay–Burnett region, Queensland, Australia.

Noosa National Park is a national park in Queensland, Australia, 121 km north of Brisbane.

Brisbane is the capital and most populous city of Queensland and the third-most populous city in Australia and Oceania, with a population of approximately 2.6 million.

The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 2,300 kilometres (1,400 mi) over an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometres (133,000 sq mi).

Cape Tribulation is a headland and coastal locality in the Shire of Douglas in northern Queensland, Australia.

Perth is the capital and largest city of Western Australia and the fourth most populous city in Australia and Oceania, with a population of 2.2 million living in Greater Perth.

The Swan Valley is a region in the upper reaches of the Swan River between Guildford and Bells Rapids, Western Australia.

Rottnest Island, often colloquially referred to as "Rotto", is a 19 km2 (7.3 sq mi) island off the coast of Western Australia, located 18 km (11 mi) west of Fremantle.

The City of Fremantle is a local government area in the south of Perth, Western Australia.

Rockingham is a suburb of Perth, Western Australia, located 47 km south-south-west of the city centre.