Customer Friendly Itineraries

Sydney, Australia’s most iconic city, is a vibrant hub of culture, beauty, and history. Home to nearly 20% of the country's population, it’s also Australia’s largest city. Perched along the stunning east coast, Sydney boasts an enviable mix of world-famous landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, alongside pristine white-sand beaches like Bondi and Manly. With a rich tapestry of history, art, and diverse culinary delights, Sydney offers something for every traveller, from sun-seekers and food lovers to adventure enthusiasts.

Arrive into Sydney. A private driver will meet your flight and transfer you to your accommodation.

Often mistaken as Australia's capital city, Sydney is a vibrant coastal city with plenty to see and do. Starting in Circular Quay you will catch your first views of the two big icons, Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. From here you can catch one of the quintessential harbour ferries over to Manly Beach or Taronga Zoo, catching a glimpse of Kirribilli House, the Prime Minister's official Sydney residence, on the way over. Kirribilli is also home to one of Sydney's oldest markets at the Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre twice a month. It is known for its stalls of vintage clothing, arts, delicious street food and its lively community atmosphere - so if you are in town on a market day, you can't miss it. For a relaxing end to your day of exploration, your dinner options are aplenty. From high-end restaurants around Circular Quay that offer amazing views, to the Chinatown food courts and a broad range of eateries at Barangaroo, you will be spoiled for choice.

Step aboard a modern 78ft cruiser to begin your Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise with Cruise Sydney. Designed with luxury and superb comfort in mind and with plenty of room on board, expansive main, upper, and sun decks offer 360-degree views of all the harbour’s iconic attractions as you sail past. This lunch experience is a long, lavish affair, with generous a la carte meals showcasing locally sourced and regionally influenced delicacies, paired with an expansive collection of beers, wine, soft drinks, tea, or coffee. Wine lovers aboard are in for a treat, as the wine selection has been hand-curated from some of the most prestigious wine regions in New South Wales.

Experience the excitement of Australia’s famous Harbour City aboard the Big Bus Sydney and Bondi Beach open-top double-decker buses. This tour is the perfect introduction to Sydney, showcasing iconic landmarks such as the impressive Sydney Harbour Bridge, the magnificent Sydney Opera House, and the sparkling waters of Sydney and Darling Harbour. Along the way, you’ll pass vibrant shops, restaurants, and attractions nestled among Colonial, Victorian, and modern architecture.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.
Please note, a one-way fee may apply

After departing Sydney through the leafy northern suburbs, take the scenic route to the Central Coast. Continuing along the highway, you should take some time to explore the area with towns like Terrigal, Avoca Beach and The Entrance which are home to long sandy beaches, popular surf breaks, and great cafes and restaurants. Continue north, skirting Lake Macquarie, Australia's largest coastal saltwater lake and pass Newcastle, the second biggest city in New South Wales, before arriving at Port Stephens.

With 26 sandy beaches, an idyllic blue bay, and a backdrop of giant sand dunes, Port Stephens is a true paradise. The area boasts one of Australia's highest populations of bottlenose dolphins and offers many sheltered coves perfect for families. Choose from a variety of activities, including swimming with the dolphins, or enjoying a day of diving, surfing, or snorkelling. You can also get up close with local wildlife, even touching a shark or cuddling a ray at a nearby marine park. For those who love adventure, get an adrenaline rush by quad biking or sand boarding down the towering Stockton Sand Dunes, the Southern Hemisphere's largest moving coastal dunes. You can also explore the many bush walks, or taste the local fresh-caught seafood.

Maximize your free day by diving into the coastal splendour of Port Stephens. We suggest starting your morning with an invigorating, but rewarding, hike up Mount Tomaree. From the summit, you’ll be treated to spectacular panoramic views encompassing the entire coastline, the offshore islands, and the sweeping bays below. Once you’ve descended, cool off with a refreshing swim at the sheltered and pristine Zenith Beach. The afternoon is reserved for the region’s true highlight: a dolphin cruise out of Nelson Bay, offering incredible opportunities to spot playful pods. To cap off your perfect coastal day, secure a spot at a local restaurant overlooking the harbour in Nelson Bay and indulge in some of the region's famous, fresh, locally harvested seafood.

Set sail on a fantastic 1.5-hour Dolphin Discovery Cruise in Port Stephens, Australia's "Dolphin Capital"! Join Moonshadow TQC as you search for over 160 resident bottlenose dolphins amidst the stunning Tomaree and Yacaaba headlands. Enjoy lively commentary from your captain, sharing fascinating insights. For an added splash of fun, try boom netting, safely towed through the water, a unique, exhilarating experience! With excellent dolphin sighting rates, comfortable viewing, and a licensed bar, it's a truly memorable way to connect with Port Stephens' vibrant marine life.

Live the adventure that promises you a Quad Riding experience like no other with Sand Dune Adventures. Experience the magnificence of the Worimi Sand Dunes on Stockton Beach, riding safely from bush to beach with expert guides. This one-hour quad bike ride takes in the wonders of the highest sand dunes in the southern hemisphere, the glorious views of the sweeping coastline and a chance to learn about the history of the land.

Today's drive begins by following the bay around to the north to rejoin the Pacific Highway and cross the Karuah River. Your drive to Port Macquarie is along the Legendary Pacific Coast Drive, one of the state's most beautiful routes. If you aren't in a rush and feel like a detour to explore more of the coast, then you will be rewarded by a stop in Forster. Seafood lovers can relax here over a lazy lunch of freshly oysters while overlooking the water. Port Macquarie is your destination for the day and is home to 17 beaches, beautiful scenic walks, and the Koala Hospital. If time allows, we recommend the 9km Coastal Walk from town to Lighthouse Beach.

Nestled along the stunning coastline of New South Wales, Port Macquarie is a vibrant seaside town known for its beautiful beaches, lush hinterlands, and rich history. This coastal gem offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. Port Macquarie boasts a variety of pristine beaches, ideal for swimming, surfing, and soaking up the sun. Nature lovers can explore the nearby coastal walks, including the famous Coastal Walk, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean and chances to spot whales during migration season. The town is also home to the Koala Hospital, where visitors can learn about conservation efforts and see koalas up close. For history enthusiasts, Port Macquarie’s heritage is on display at sites like the Historic Courthouse and the Port Macquarie Museum, which showcase the town’s colonial past. The vibrant town center offers a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

From Port Macquarie, head north on the Pacific Highway toward Kempsey to visit the Slim Dusty Centre, a tribute to Australia’s country music legend featuring iconic costumes and historical imagery. Continue to the bohemian riverside town of Bellingen to enjoy local cafes or a craft brewery before discovering the crystal-clear swimming holes of the Promised Land on the Never Never River. Follow the B78 highway into the lush hinterland to explore the World Heritage-listed Dorrigo National Park, where breathtaking rainforest walks await, followed by a refreshing stop at the nearby Dangar Falls. Rejoin the Pacific Highway for Coffs Harbour, home to the historic Big Banana. Since 1964, this landmark has been a must-visit for a signature banana split or a coffee at the café. Conclude your coastal adventure with a relaxed stroll along the Coffs Harbour Jetty, taking in the stunning ocean views.

It's a great place for a beach holiday with glorious stretches of sand galore and a laid-back coastal vibe and makes a fantastic base to explore the rainforests and waterfalls of the Waterfall Way or the incredible Solitary Islands Marine Park. Coffs Harbour has been defined by something big, yellow, and very kitsch the beloved Big Banana. Located on a working banana plantation, the walk-through banana was built in 1964, the first of Australia's Big Things. Today, its part of a fun park with toboggans, mini-golf, and a plantation tour and no trip to Coffs is complete without stopping for a photo opportunity and a chocolate covered banana treat. Holiday-makers take to the water at every chance they can get during a stay in Coffs Harbour and its no surprise that kayaking, diving and whale watching top the list of must-do activities. Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds and sights of nature as you kayak or canoe the rivers and creeks that flow through the Coffs Coast.

This stand-up paddle tour takes guests on a cultural journey showcasing the local Gumbaynggirr language, bush tucker and Dreaming stories while paddling through the unspoilt Solitary Islands Marine Park. Your tour guides, who are all Gumbaynggirr or Aboriginal people who have strong ties to Gumbaynggirr country, are direct descendants of the world's first stand-up paddlers. Throughout your tour, they will teach you about local Gumbaynggirr stories, and language, and even help you find bush delicacies that you can sample, including lemon myrtle, yams and native sarsaparilla.

From Coffs Harbour, snake along the coast for 120km until you reach signs for Yamba. This sleepy hamlet has beaches that rival those of Byron Bay but remain a little more low-profile. Take a stroll on one of the beautiful beaches, or head to the Pacific Hotel for some great views. From Yamba, return to the Pacific Highway and continue to head north. If you want an opportunity to see another Australian "big thing", take a short detour into Ballina to see the Big Prawn. From here, continue through to Byron Bay, famous for surfers, social media influences, and health retreats. Stop off at the Byron Bay Lighthouse, perched on Australia's easternmost point. The final part of your journey from Byron Bay to the Gold Coast will see you crossing state lines from New South Wales to Queensland. Travel past Coolangatta, a surf and diving mecca revered for its unpretentious culture and bountiful array of aquatic life and continue onto Surfers Paradise, famed for its white-sand beaches, theme parks, and shopping.

Surfers Paradise is one of Australia's most iconic family holiday destinations, located on the bustling Gold Coast of Queensland. As the main hub of the Gold Coast, this surfside suburb is renowned for its main strip of skyscrapers, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife juxtaposed with the surrounding pristine coastline and reliable swell. At just under 333 metres tall, the Q1 building in Surfers Paradise is one of the tallest buildings around the globe. The SkyPoint Observation deck atop the skyscraper is a must-do for anyone who appreciates a 360-degree view encompassing stunning coastline and forested inland. The suburb offers an array of activities, ranging from surf lessons to mini golf courses, rooftop bars, and a 7D cinema.

SkyPoint offers panoramic views of the Gold Coast from the top the iconic Q1 building in Surfers Paradise. The 360° views extend to the New South Wales border and out to the magnificent, lush Gold Coast Hinterland. SkyPoint is one of Queensland’s most iconic tourist attractions as it gives you a bird’s eye view of the ‘Famous for Fun’ Gold Coast from a unique vantage point 230 metres above Surfers Paradise.

Start your ultimate Gold Coast day by catching the first light at Burleigh Heads, where you can watch pro surfers carve the point or spot migrating whales breaching offshore. For those ready to jump in themselves, head north to The Spit near Main Beach for a surf lesson with Surf in Paradise, or spend the morning beach-hopping between the pristine stretches of Coolangatta and Currumbin. Once you’ve had your fill of the salt and spray, head to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to connect with Australia’s iconic animals. Spend your midday wandering through open enclosures to feed kangaroos and visiting the sanctuary’s newest precinct, home to exotic red pandas, capybaras, and lemurs. Knowing your visit supports vital conservation programs makes the experience even more rewarding. For a long lunch, secure a table at Rick Shores or The Fish House, soaking in the world-class coastal views. If you are chasing a different kind of adrenaline, spend the afternoon at Dreamworld for high-speed thrills. Finally, wind down by exploring the region’s thriving craft beer scene; grab a cold pint of award-winning brew at Balter or Burleigh Brewing Co. to toast a perfect day of Gold Coast sun and adventure.

Experience an exciting nighttime tour with stargazing, delicious dessert at a local restaurant and a fully guided rainforest walk to the waterfall. This is a great tour for you to discover the bio-network of rainforests and to experience nocturnal wildlife spotting. Journey to the peaceful and picturesque Gold Coast hinterland. A local mountain-top restaurant awaits you to serve tea, coffee or hot chocolate accompanied by a selection of delicious cakes.
With the knowledge of your guide, discover the lush forests of Tamborine National Park and spot native nocturnal wildlife. Everyone has a flashlight to light the walkway. At the end of the trail emerges Curtis Falls, a subtropical waterfall and habitat to the stars of the show, the ever-fascinating, glow worms.

The Scenic Rim route between the Gold Coast and Brisbane is a journey through an ancient volcanic caldera, rich in UNESCO World Heritage beauty. Begin by driving west to Canungra, then south into Lamington National Park. Here, you can immerse yourself in lush rainforest via the easy Centenary Track or the spectacular Morans Falls trail. Next, head north to Tamborine Mountain, a plateau formed by lava flows 22 million years ago. Whether you choose the Rainforest Skywalk, Treetop Challenge, or sampling fresh mountain produce, the area offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. On your final stretch toward Brisbane, make a mandatory pitstop at the iconic Yatala Pies. Serving Queenslanders for over 130 years, it is the ultimate way to fuel up before hitting the motorway. This route perfectly showcases the stunning topography and heritage that define the region.

Enjoy a luxurious wine tasting of Sirromet's most highly awarded wines. These carefully selected premium award-winning wines include Sirromet's unique wild yeast-fermented Le Sauvage range and Private Collection LM Assemblage. Then sit back and relax while taking in the breathtaking scenery spread across the vast Sirromet Winery Estate as you indulge in your premium winery hamper for two. Complete with the finest selection of locally sourced meats, cheese, sweets wine, and everything you will need to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere. 

Brisbane is the third-largest city in Australia and is the capital of Queensland, the "Sunshine State". It is set along the Brisbane River and was the traditional home to the Jagera and Turrbal Aboriginal clans before Europeans founded a convict colony in what is now the central business district in 1824. Over the years it grew and by 1859 was formally established as a city. Today, Brisbane is one of the fastest-growing cities in Australia and has a rich, culturally diverse population. Spend your day eating and shopping your way through the CBD and Fortitude Valley, or cross the bridge and visit picturesque Southbank, with beautiful parklands and the Cultural Precinct, home to some of the state's best museums and galleries.

Drive north from Brisbane towards Noosa, the world famous beachside town on the Sunshine Coast. Along the way, you could make a stop at Australia Zoo in Beerwah to see crocodiles, koalas, wombats, and other native wildlife. If you’re passing through Eumundi on a Wednesday or Saturday, the Eumundi Markets are worth a visit for local food, arts, and crafts. Once you arrive in Noosa, you can relax on the golden beaches, wander the boutique-lined streets, or explore the stunning trails of Noosa National Park.

Unlock a full day of wildlife adventure with the Australia Zoo One Day Admission Pass. Set across 110 acres, this iconic zoo, made famous by the late Steve Irwin, offers an unforgettable experience with up-close encounters with Australia’s most iconic animals. Explore the expansive grounds, where you’ll meet koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and the famous crocodiles in their natural habitats. Enjoy thrilling shows like the Wildlife Warriors demonstration, where saltwater crocodiles leap from the water’s edge in a spectacular display. Visit the Wildlife Hospital, one of the busiest in the world, and witness firsthand the vital care given to endangered animals. Discover the Tiger Temple, home to majestic Sumatran and Bengal tigers, and stroll through Queensland’s only multi-species African exhibit. With a variety of live presentations, animal encounters, and opportunities to learn about conservation efforts, the Australia Zoo One Day Admission Pass offers a full day of fun and education. 

Noosa is nestled on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and is surrounded by beautiful beaches, lakes, and the dense hinterland of Noosa National Park. The name 'Noosa' came from the Aboriginal Kabi word meaning "shade" or "shadows", which is thought to be a reference to the respite from the sun offered by the tall forests in the area.
Noosa has an array of outdoor activities for all ages to choose from. Here, you can learn to surf or have a go at stand-up paddleboarding; go kayaking in the Noosa Everglades or join a sunset cruise along the river. It is also home to world-class golf courses, exquisite day spas, shopping and enticing cuisine.

Noosa, located on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, is a haven for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and foodies. Relax on Noosa Main Beach, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, or explore quieter spots like Little Cove and Tea Tree Bay. Take in breathtaking coastal views and spot wildlife like dolphins and koalas on the scenic trails of Noosa National Park, with the Coastal Walk to Hell’s Gates being a standout. For water adventures, paddleboard along the Noosa River or explore the stunning Noosa Everglades, one of only two in the world. Hastings Street offers boutique shopping, art galleries, and dining options ranging from beachfront cafes to fine restaurants. Explore further to the Noosa Hinterland or nearby attractions like Australia Zoo for even more adventure.

Crave the ultimate Aussie adventure? Catch your first wave in Noosa with Go Ride A Wave, Australia's favorite surf school. No experience needed! With over 35 years of expertise, their highly-trained instructors (Surf Life Savers) will guide you in waist-deep water using soft, beginner-friendly boards. These comprehensive 2-hour lessons cater to all ages and skill levels, guaranteeing an exciting, safe, and unforgettable experience. Imagine the feeling of riding your first wave – the rush of adrenaline, the cool spray, the golden sunshine. Go Ride A Wave will capture these memories with photos, so you can prove your surfing prowess back home. Don't wait! The waves are calling - Surf's Up!

Adventure Tour to Fraser Island takes you into the best areas of this environmentally sensitive region. You will get the chance to discover its precious eco-systems, abundant wildlife and natural paradise. Seemingly endless golden beaches encompass towering forests, pristine rainforests, mosaic coloured sands, crystal clear freshwater lakes, gurgling red streams and prehistoric ferns. Travel along the narrow inland tracks to visit stunning Lake McKenzie, which is world famous for its turquoise colors and get a real 4WD off-road experience. Explore Central Station with its multitude of luxuriant palms and vines, stroll along Wanggoolba Creek Boardwalk and witness the beautiful pine forests of Cooloola Recreation Area.

Today's drive from Noosa to Sunshine Coast Airport is relatively straightforward, taking you along State Route 70 and Eumundi Noosa Road. Expect a journey of under an hour, depending on traffic. As you depart Noosa, you'll pass through charming coastal towns like Coolum Beach and Peregian Beach. If you have extra time, it's well worth exploring this beautiful region before continuing your journey to the airport.

Explore more of Sunshine Coast before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

The cost for this flight is additional to your tour. Please contact your Sales Consultant if you would like us to book this flight for you at an additional cost.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.
Please note, a one-way fee may apply

The best route north is the Captain Cook Highway (State Route 44). This drive offers countless opportunities to stop and admire the breathtaking views or walk along the beach. Just 20 minutes north of Cairns is Smithfield, home to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway where you can take a bird's eye view of the world's oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest, or divert a little further to Kuranda for the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway. Continue north through Palm Cove and onto Port Douglas, stopping on the way at Rex Lookout for a 180-degree view over the Coral Sea, with views to Double Island to the south. Stretch your legs on Four Mile Beach and grab some lunch or a coffee before continuing your drive. Back on the highway, you will pass through Mossman as you head north on your journey into the Daintree Rainforest.

The world's oldest rainforest by an impressive 10 million years, surviving cataclysmic events that wiped out the dinosaurs, the Daintree exudes ancient energy to those who visit. The traditional custodians of the area, the Kuku Yulanji, have been living in complete harmony with their environment for 50,000 years. Encompassing approximately 1200 square kilometres stretching from the Daintree River to the sea's edge, north to Cooktown and west to the Great Divide, this World Heritage-listed area is the single largest block of tropical rainforest in Australia. With creeping vines, emerald tree canopies and winding rivers below, there are memorable experiences to be gained for all. One of the most well-known natural features of the Daintree is Mossman Gorge, promising breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife and lush rainforest steeped in history and legends that have been passed down through generations. Whether you are seeking luxury, immersive cultural experiences, or something more adventurous, the Daintree has it all.

Travel through Kuku Yalanji country, led by your local Aboriginal guide and learn about the culturally significant sights and local attractions between Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation including the World Heritage Daintree rainforest. Hear about the unique relationships the Kuku Yalanji people still have with their land and experience these diverse environments. Walk through the world’s oldest living rainforest, see the majestic Daintree River, and reach Cape Tribulation: where the rainforest meets the reef, explore coastal habitats learning about the environment, different foods and medicines utilised from nature, sample some bush tucker, swim at one of the pristine freshwater streams in the area before returning to your accommodation.

Departing the Daintree you may wish to stop at Jindalba Boardwalk circuit for a short walk through the lush forest. Cross the Daintree River on the ferry and head south along Mossman-Daintree Road. Passing through the town of Mossman, you can take a detour to Mossman Gorge for a self-guided walk through this famous wilderness area. This is also a good opportunity to stop for lunch at the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. From here it is just a 20-minute drive to the beautiful resort town of Port Douglas.

Port Douglas is a relaxed, tropical sea-side village, where the reef meets the rainforest. A perfect getaway location, it features a great range of restaurants, bars and boutique shopping. Relax by the beach or take a tour of some of Australia's iconic natural wonders, the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and the World's oldest living rainforest, the Daintree. Go snorkelling or diving, adventure on a mountain bike tour or learn about Indigenous country and culture through immersive experiences.

Experience the northern Great Barrier Reef on this eco-conscious sailing and snorkelling odyssey from Port Douglas. Perfect for swimmers with a spirit of adventure, this sustainable full-day tour takes you to the breathtaking Mackay Coral Cay. Your journey begins with an insightful presentation by an onboard Marine Biologist, setting the stage for your immersion into vibrant coral gardens. Explore the underwater world through guided snorkelling sessions and a glass-bottom boat tour. Between sites, enjoy a fresh tropical buffet lunch on deck.

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, a World Heritage-listed reef system comprising over 3000 individual reefs. This hugely biodiverse ecosystem is home to an abundance of marine life, coral cays and tropical islands surrounded by sun-drenched golden beaches. It has become one of the most highly sought-after tourist destinations in the world, so there is no shortage of activities available to help you explore the stunning area, including snorkelling, diving, scenic flights, cruises and whale watching voyages. 

Port Douglas is a sophisticated yet soulful seaside village that perfectly captures the essence of tropical North Queensland. Serving as the ultimate gateway to three of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders - the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, and Cape Tribulation - it offers an unparalleled base for exploration. By day, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Macrossan Street, where high-end boutique shopping, local art galleries, and world-class alfresco dining create a chic urban buzz. Nature lovers can find serenity on the golden sands of Four Mile Beach, take a scenic coastal walk, or engage with native wildlife like koalas and cassowaries at the immersive Wildlife Habitat. For the adventurous, the reef beckons with world-class snorkelling and diving, while the ancient Daintree offers guided river cruises and prehistoric landscapes. If relaxation is your priority, you might indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment or board a luxury catamaran for a sunset sail across the Coral Sea. Whether you are seeking high-octane adventure in a World Heritage-listed wilderness or a leisurely afternoon sipping cocktails by the water, Port Douglas seamlessly blends natural beauty with laid-back luxury, making it a destination you can truly explore at your own pace.

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is one of the longest continually operating tourist attractions in Australia. The business began in 1934 as a roadhouse for weary motorists. Legend has it the original owner Pop Evans entertained motorists by feeding Charlie the crocodile, while scones cooked in the woodstove. Eight decades later, Hartley’s world-famous Crocodile Attack Show is as popular as ever with daily presentations that strike a perfect balance between entertainment and education.

This short 70km drive will take you down the Captain Cook Highway to the beautiful city of Cairns. Consider picking up some groceries in Port Douglas and enjoy a picnic on one of the many stunning beaches along your drive. Pebbly Beach, located approximately 15km south of Port Douglas is a bit of a deviation from the standard sandy beaches of the tropical north but is beautiful nonetheless. As the name suggests, the beach is covered with smooth, tiny stones and is popular among motorists to stop and explore. Your next stop on your drive south will be Rex Lookout, with panoramic views of the Coral Sea and views of Double Island to the south. Further south, you will reach the beautiful coastal village of Palm Cove. Spend some time wandering the paperbark-lined streets dotted with boutique shops, artisan cafes and restaurants. Finally, pass through Smithfield before getting off the highway and heading into Cairns.

Return your rental vehicle to Cairns Airport terminal before checking in for your flight.

The cost for this flight is additional to your tour. Please contact your Sales Consultant if you would like us to book this flight for you at an additional cost. 

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.
Please note, a one-way fee may apply

Melbourne, Australia’s vibrant cultural capital, offers a dynamic mix of experiences for every traveler. Wander through eclectic laneways filled with world-class street art, indie boutiques, and cozy cafés. Dive into the city’s thriving arts scene with galleries, live music, and theatre performances. Enjoy iconic attractions like Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and Queen Victoria Market. Food lovers can indulge in global cuisine, from bustling Chinatown to chic waterfront dining. Just outside the city, explore the Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley wineries, or take a wildlife-filled day trip to Phillip Island. In Melbourne, there’s always something new to discover.

Experience the delights of Victoria’s wine country on this Yarra Valley wine tour from Melbourne. Start your day with scenic drive to the Yarra Valley, where an expert guide shares the secrets of the region's famous varietals. Your first stop is Greenstone Vineyards, boasting panoramic views of the Great Dividing Range, followed by a visit to Balgownie Estate for premium tastings and a vineyard lunch. Next, visit the rustic Yering Farm to sample wines in a charmingly converted hay shed filled with antique winemaking tools. Conclude your journey at Soumah Wines, specializing in elegant northern Italian and French styles, before a relaxing return drive and drop-off in Melbourne.

The Yarra Valley is the region surrounding the Yarra River in Victoria, less than an hour drive from Melbourne. It is a popular area featuring quality local food and wine, breathtaking scenery, romantic hideaways and indulgent adventures. The area's climate makes it a great place for growing high-quality wine, particularly a production of chardonnay, pinot noir and sparkling wine. Not only wine, the area is also a popular place for micro-breweries and cider-makers. In addition, the region plays an important agricultural role, especially berry and fruit production. It remains Victoria's premier food & wine tourism destination.

Begin your journey by heading south to the picturesque town of Torquay, recognized as the surfing capital of Australia, thanks to the famous Bells Beach. Follow the coast from through Anglesea to Lorne, here we recommended a short detour to Erskine Falls. You can park close to the 30 metre cascading waterfall, or take a walk through the lush rainforest to stretch your legs.

Lorne is nestled between Loutit Bay and the Otway National Park, bringing the beach and the bush together at your doorstep. It's an ideal spot to stop and enjoy on your journey, there is a great range of places to eat and drink, shop and explore, with 10 waterfalls within 10km of the town.
The Great Ocean Road Heritage Centre located in Lorne's Visitor Complex showcases the historical story of the road carved in rock, a gruelling feat by returned servicemen of World War 1.
During the whale watching season (from May to September), Lorne is a great spot to capture a glimpse of these gentle giants. It is also the perfect spot for surfers with beginner waves at Lorne Beach, a more advanced break at Cathedral Rock in the Great Otway National Park and several other nearby breaks.

Follow the Great Ocean Road along the coastline, past Apollo Bay and the Great Otway National Park to the iconic 12 Apostles, the most famous landmark on the Great Ocean Road. To walk out and view these formations you can park at the carpark and follow the paved path to the lookout, or to take some time and stretch your legs take the path down Gibson's steps to the beach. Descending down these 86 stairs carved into the cliff face, and reaching the beach you are treated to a closeup view of these incredible rock formations. From here, it's just a short drive to your destination for the night, Port Campbell. This small coastal town is home to cafes and restaurants with views of the beach, as well as vibrant shops and galleries to explore. Finish your day with a walk out to the Port Campbell Jetty and watch the waves crashing against the limestone cliffs.

Join a thrilling guided walk through the stunning landscapes of the Otways, where lush tree fern gullies, towering eucalypt woodlands, and breathtaking ocean views await. Led by an expert conservationist guide, you’ll uncover the fascinating secrets of the plants and animals that thrive in this incredible region. Each tour offers a unique opportunity to encounter Australia’s wildlife in their natural habitat, including almost guaranteed sightings of koalas. With a bit of luck, you might also spot potoroos, bandicoots, and other amazing Australian animals that call Wildlife Wonders home. Perfect for nature lovers, this adventure promises an unforgettable connection to the wonders of the natural world.

Today you will head to Melbourne. Follow Cobden-Port Campbell Rd to Camperdown, where you will reach the junction for the Princes Highway (A1). Head east and the highway becomes the M1 Motorway as you pass Geelong and the Avalon Airport on your way into Melbourne.

Find your Melbourne hidden bars bar guru (look for their blue umbrella) at Gordon Reserve. After meeting your guide, you’ll get to know your fellow guests who will serve as your new drinking buddies for the new 3 hours (or more!). Your guide will provide all you need to get the best out of the tour and even after you leave. Everything from what makes Melbourne’s bars so unique, where to find our best venues, and what to order. You won’t dally too long though as you have four bars to get to! The venues are all walking distance 5-15 minutes from each other (so comfortable walking shoes are advised) but occasionally the guides will make use of the free trams within the CBD/ city grid.  As your guide traverses you through the famous laneways, you will be shown more points of interest that make Melbourne such a fascinating city and encounter more venues to visit on other occasions (or straight after the tour has ended).

Take in breathtaking 360-degree views of Melbourne from the Melbourne Skydeck, located on the 88th floor of the iconic Eureka Tower. From this elevated vantage point, you can admire the city’s stunning skyline, the Yarra River, and a sweeping panorama of the surrounding areas. At Melbourne Skydeck, you’ll discover interactive displays that offer fascinating insights into the city’s history, landmarks, and modern developments. This experience offers a unique and memorable way to see Melbourne from above. It’s the perfect spot for incredible photos and to take in the full scale and beauty of the city. With panoramic views all day and night, you can relax and enjoy all of Melbourne’s legendary views with a delicious snack and cool drink.

Explore more of Melbourne before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Farewell Australia today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consultant about planning your next stop!