Big Cities & Big Lights

Day 1: Arrive Brisbane, Australia

G’Day, welcome to Brisbane in Queensland, Australia. Upon arrival you will transfer to your Brisbane hotel where you will stay for 4 nights. The balance of your day is at leisure.

Days 2-4: Brisbane

You have three days to discover Brisbane, Queensland’s river city that is an urban hub for arts, culture and dining with plenty of charm.  This city has attractive natural assets, mild temperatures year-round, a subtropical alfresco lifestyle and a relaxed urban vibe.  Beyond Brisbane are the three largest sand islands in the world – Fraser Island, Stradbroke and Moreton located off the neighbouring coast, plus the sparkling Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast within easy reach. You have three days to explore Brisbane, we have included two experiences in this trip to get you started:

Australia Zoo wildlife discovery including Koala cuddle – Travel to the sunshine coast for an Australia Zoo adventure including transfers, wildlife shows at the Crocoseum, a sneak peek inside the amazing wildlife hospital and also the chance to get aa photo with a cute Koala.

Australia winery experience – Journey through the foothills of Brisbane to Mount Tamborine to taste local wines. This picturesque fertile region is founded by the volcanic soil of a dormant volcano, as you move through the valley enjoy picturesque mountain views, breathtaking landscapes and fresh mountain air.

Day 5: Brisbane to Melbourne

You will be transferred to Brisbane domestic airport for your flight south to Melbourne (flight not included). Upon arrival you will be transferred from Melbourne Airport to your central city hotel where you will stay for 4 nights. The balance of your day is at leisure.

Days 6-8: Melbourne & The Great Ocean Road

Melbourne is a cosmopolitan city in the state of Victoria teeming with history, excellent dining, inner city charm.  It is also a sporting hub in Australia, hosting many events such as the Australian Tennis Open and the Melbourne Formula One Grand Prix.  Visitors to Melbourne can also enjoy it is a gateway to adventures exploring Philip Island, the Great Ocean Road, the Yarra Valley wine region and the Mornington Peninsula.  You have 3 days here to explore, we have included two experiences in this trip to get you started:

Melbourne Lanes and Arcades tour – This walking tour is an excellent introduction to the heart of Melbourne and many inner-city treasures. On your tour of Melbourne’s signature lanes and arcades, your guide will unveil some of the quirkiest cafes, speciality retailers, independent designers, street art, architecture with historical tales of Melbourne along the way.

The Great Ocean Road tour – Venture out of the city to experience the spectacular scenery of the Great Ocean Road, a majestic coastal route.   Keep an eye out for whales, dolphins, echidnas and bandicoots as you stop along the way for photo opportunities. Visit Apollo Bay, a small seaside town and then walk in the forest of the Otway Ranges. A truly unique day out, capped off by a visit to the ancient rock formations of the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.

Day 9: Melbourne to Sydney

You will be transferred to Melbourne Airport for your flight to Sydney (flight not included). Upon arrival you will be transferred to your central Sydney hotel where you will stay for 4 nights. The balance of your day is at leisure.

Days 10-12: Sydney & Blue Mountains National Park

One of the most popular places to visit in Australia, Sydney will not disappoint and is a great way to complete your trip.  The harbour city is an excellent mix of culture, history and outdoors.  Iconic attractions of the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Harbour are easy to access as well as the historic rocks area, Bondi and Manly Beaches and one of the more recently regenerated precincts – Barangaroo. Beyond Sydney you can easily explore the Hunter Valley wine region and the Blue Mountains National Park.

Sydney Harbour lunch cruise – Cruising the waters in Sydney is an excellent introduction to the city and a perfect way to see the city from a unique vantage point. This cruise is 2.15 hours, complete with live commentary and lunch. Discover the secrets of one of the world’s most famous and spectacular natural harbors including icons such as Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Sydney Botanical Gardens and more. Meals included: Lunch

Blue Mountains tour – Visit the World-Heritage listed region of the Blue Mountains National Park on a small group wildlife tour. Stop at a working farm-based attraction involved in animal rehabilitation near the heart of Sydney where you can get up close to a range of animals including Kangaroos and Koalas. Drive to the Blue Mountains visiting picturesque outlooks of the Jamison Valley with beautiful vistas including Eaglehawk Lookout to see the famous Three Sisters rock formation. Your afternoon is spent visiting a selection of scenic lookouts, including Govett’s Leap which is one of the most famous lookouts in Australia where the magnificent waterfall drops 180m and Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens to enjoy the sweeping views.

Day 13: Depart Sydney, Australia

Your Australian adventure comes to an end today.  Transfer to Sydney Airport for your flight home (flight not included).

This is a suggested itinerary, if you would like us to design and price a modified version of this vacation, contact our team of Australia specialists to customise a trip for you.