Cities & Natural Wonders of Australia

Wake up in Sydney. Enjoy the day at your leisure, taking full advantage of your last 24 hours in the city. Sample Sydney’s famed coffeeshops, stroll along the beach, or visit museums, it’s up to you! If you aren’t sure what to do, we suggest an optional Panoramic city sights excursion* to get a full picture of what Sydney has to offer. If Australia’s nature piques your interest, you could also choose the optional excursion to the Blue Mountains National Park** outside the city. After your afternoon, head back to the hotel. Overnight in Sydney.

*Optional Panoramic city sights excursion: See the essentials of Greater Sydney in this bus tour. Start in the CBD, then marvel at 18th-century sandstone architecture such as the Parliament House. Head to Mrs. Macquaries Point to enjoy magnificent views and continue through Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, home to the rich and famous. Pass through areas such as Kings Cross before arriving at Watsons Bay. Travel on to famous Bondi Beach and see Aussie surfers riding the waves. Continue to Tamarama and Bronte beaches before returning to the city via Paddington, a trendy district with elegant shops. End in Darling Harbour. 

**Optional Blue Mountains excursion: The Blue Mountains National Park is one of seven national parks that make up the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. This wonderland of sandstone outcrops, deep ravines and hazy blue eucalypt forests boasts stunning scenery. Go off the beaten track with an expert guide to visit remote viewpoints and discuss the history, flora, and fauna of this magnificent region.

Important note: These optional activities take place simultaneously and cannot be combined.

Wake up in Sydney, prepared for an internal flight to Cairns. Located in the far north of Queensland, Cairns is a tropical city and a center for tourism in the region’s spectacular nature. The city offers easy access to the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

After landing, self-transfer to the hotel and take the rest of the day to discover this exciting city independently. Swim at the Esplanade lagoon, sample local produce at a farmer's market, shop for a summer wardrobe, or cruise around the marina. It’s up to you! Overnight in Cairns.

Wake up in Cairns. Today, set off on an unforgettable full-day experience to the Great Barrier Reef, the highlight of your stay. Cruise to the outer reef and discover one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders, where you can snorkel or dive among vibrant coral gardens and tropical marine life, or simply relax and take in the views from the platform.

Enjoy a full day at the reef with a range of activities available, including an underwater observatory, semi-submersible cruise, or time on the sundeck. A buffet lunch is included during the excursion. Return to Cairns in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Cairns.

Wake up in Cairns. Enjoy another day at your leisure to cross more fun activities off your list. If you’re most excited about seeing the Daintree Rainforest, you could sign up for an optional excursion led by an experienced guide* and see far more than a typical tourist. Return to the hotel in the afternoon and pack for tomorrow’s flight to Melbourne. Overnight in Cairns.

*Optional Daintree Rainforest excursion: Take the scenic route to Cape Tribulation within the Daintree National Park. Ascend the Alexandra Range and pause for a panoramic view of rainforest merging with the Coral Sea. Experience the rainforest up-close on the elevated National Park Boardwalk. Go beyond Cape Tribulation to pristine Emmagen Creek, with time for a refreshing rainforest swim. Look for exotic birds in the trees and indulge in the tropical fruit of these tranquil surroundings. After a short afternoon refreshment stop, cross the Daintree River by cable ferry and return to the hotel.

Wake up in Cairns and self-transfer to the airport for your flight to Melbourne! Lauded for its sense of style and elegance, Melbourne boasts glamorous festivals and events, Australia's best shopping, a lively passion for fine dining, and a flourishing interest in the arts. Restored and preserved nineteenth-century architecture, built following the discovery of gold, provides a heady reminder of a prosperous age, while beautifully tended parks and gardens present a therapeutic respite from the pace of city life.

Take the rest of the day at your leisure to rest or explore. Overnight in Melbourne.

Wake up in Melbourne. Today, experience a guided tour of the city. Melbourne is a city of contrasts, world-famous sporting arenas, and historic gardens. Be dazzled by the wondrous sights of Australia’s most vibrant city and learn about Melbourne’s fascinating history, explore its bustling art and cafe scene, as well as plenty of other cultural highlights with your expert guide.

You are once again free in the afternoon to explore Melbourne as you see fit. Overnight in Melbourne.

Wake up in Melbourne. Today is your final full day here, so be sure to take advantage! This is your last chance to go on an excursion in Australia. Today there are two options on offer, both of which cater to those seeking one last look at the stunning Australian natural scenery. For those who want stunning views and a stop at a rock formation known as the “12 Apostles,” why not go on a coastal drive with the optional Ocean Road experience?* If you want to get to know the local wildlife, and see it up close, head to Phillip Island** and see a koala reserve and “penguin parade” before heading back to the mainland. Return to the hotel in the evening and prepare for your flight back to the US. Overnight in Melbourne.

*Optional Ocean Road Experience: The Great Ocean Road tour is one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives! Leaving Melbourne, pass Anglesea before enjoying morning tea on the beautiful beach. See the abundance of Australian wildlife, including cuddly koalas, and check out the magnificent surf spots. Walk in the ancient rainforest before arriving in the afternoon to see the gigantic limestone stacks known as the “12 Apostles” in Port Campbell National Park.

**Optional Phillip Island Experience: Stop at the Phillip Island Koala Conservation Reserve and make some new friends as you stroll on boardwalk trails. Experience views of an Australian fur seal colony and spot wild wallabies and native birds on a back-road journey to the main event. The Penguin Parade Visitor Centre at Summerland Beach is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating ecotourism attractions in the world, offering the opportunity to learn about the conservation of wildlife. At sunset, witness some of the world's tiniest penguins coming ashore as they emerge from the sea. It's truly unforgettable!

Important note: these optional activities take place simultaneously and cannot be combined.