Large tracts of tropical beaches, marine reserves, Aboriginal culture, adorable koalas, rolling wine country, and verdant rainforests are just a few of Australia’s many attractions.
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Australia is one of the world’s most intriguing and diverse countries, with locations ranging from the stunning Great Barrier Reef in Queensland’s steamy north to Sydney’s renowned architecture and Melbourne’s buzzing independent districts.
See what makes Australia well-known below.
The Great Barrier Reef is one example.
Where on Earth could you find the critically endangered green turtle and the warm-water dwelling dugong? The remarkable Great Barrier Reef, which stretches over 1,400 miles off the northeast coast of Australia, has been inducted into the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Even the most daring of explorers may feel small by comparison with this astounding reef system due to its sheer vastness. With 1,500 different species of fish and over 400 different varieties of stunning coral, the ecology is remarkable.
Swirls of shimmering white sand stretch over the dazzling clear ocean at Airlie Beach near Cairns in Queensland, providing a glimpse of this amazing Australian icon.
For an aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef, think about flying over Heart Reef, which is close to the Whitsunday Islands, in a seaplane when you visit. The only way to see this heart-shaped reef structure is to soar above it because of its protected status.
Make sure you have extra batteries for the journey since you’ll want to take a picture of this vision with your camera. As your guide points out locations like as Hamilton Island, Whitehaven Beach, Daydream Island, and Hayman Island, you may gaze down at the stunning scenery.
Take a glass-bottom boat ride to see the plethora of marine life on the Great Barrier Reef up close. Dive into the turquoise seas to see sparkling Maori wrasse, enormous manta rays, and bright clownfish for some of the world’s greatest snorkeling.
Australian Aboriginal Art
Aboriginal Australian and Torres Strait Islander peoples create a wide range of artworks, from current paintings shown in contemporary galleries around the nation to ancient rock art discovered at sacred sites like Uluru.
Representing the works of the Koorie Aboriginal culture of South-Eastern Australia is the main goal of the Koorie Heritage Trust in Melbourne, which is located in Federation Square. Visit this First Nations-owned and run organization; its immersive exhibition program, permanent gallery, and public programs like talks and workshops make it a must.
Discover more about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures in Sydney by participating in the intriguing Waranara tours offered by the Australian Museum, which feature pieces from the museum’s collections and are conducted by a First Nations guide.
A. The Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most well-known landmarks. Sydney Opera House, which is situated on the expansive waterfront of the city, is recognizable by its three ivory sails.
This 1973 music, performance, and eating complex, created by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has mesmerized visitors ever since it opened.
Opera Australia, the Sydney Theatre Company, and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra call the Sydney Opera House’s auditoriums home. The venue is conveniently positioned between two other well-known Sydney landmarks: the Royal Botanic Garden and The Rocks neighborhood on Bennelong Point.
Taking a guided tour of the opera house behind the scenes is one of the nicest things to do in Sydney. Admire the interiors, which resemble cathedrals, explore the Opera House’s normally off-limits basement, and discover the fascinating history of this magnificent structure.
Make time to savor a leisurely lunch at the Sydney Opera House’s Bennelong, which is overseen by renowned chef Peter Gilmore. Enjoy delicious Australian cuisine course after dish while taking in expansive views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Since Bennelong is one of Sydney’s busiest restaurants, reservations are required well in advance of your visit.
MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art
Situated north of Hobart, Tasmania, on the banks of the Derwent River, the stunning Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is a remarkable modern art venue surrounded by lush vineyard and landscaping.
The centerpiece of Hobart’s vibrant cultural landscape, the museum is accessible by boat from the waterfront Brooke Street Pier in 25 minutes.
Exploring the displays and intricate architecture of MONA might easily take up a full day. After that, you could visit the Moorilla Winery and have some zesty wines.
Enjoy delectable Tasmanian products at Source and Faro Bar and Restaurant, the museum’s two kitchen-garden eateries, and discover lots of topics for conversation about MONA.
Unusual Melbourne Communities
Australian cities are characterized by their composition of fiercely separate communities grouped together. Visitors may enjoy independent stores and a variety of dining options in Brunswick, a nostalgic beach atmosphere in St. Kilda, and upscale boutiques and cafés in South Yarra, all in Melbourne, a city renowned for its eccentric neighborhoods.
Go to Fitzroy’s center district to witness one of the most interesting. World-class restaurants and pubs, bijou boutiques, Victorian architecture, and colorful street art are some of the unique features of this diverse area.
Start your day at one of Fitzroy’s numerous all-day eateries with brunch, which is perhaps the most important meal of the day in Australia, and some of Melbourne’s renowned coffee before perusing Gertrude Street’s luxury boutiques.
Visit the numerous antique shops on Brunswick Street, which are located next to cocktail lounges and eateries offering a variety of foreign cuisines. Afghan Gallery is a great place to eat vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free food. After, enjoy craft beers and killer cocktails on Brunswick’s Naked for Satan’s rooftop.
Just as charming is Collingswood, which stretches parallel to Fitzroy’s east. Savor the unique Australian art at Lamington Drive and Backwoods Gallery, sample the single-origin coffee at Proud Mary, and spend some time at Stomping Ground Brewery & Beer Hall enjoying a leisurely meal and local beers.