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The Australian Essentials

Begin an unforgettable 17-day journey through Australia’s most iconic destinations, crafted for first-time travellers eager to experience the highlights. Start in Sydney with its world-famous harbour and nearby Blue Mountains, explore the tropical paradise of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, traverse the scenic Great Ocean Road, and finish in Melbourne, soaking up its laneways, culture, and charm. Discover vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, rich Aboriginal culture, and unique wildlife that make this country truly extraordinary.

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Day 1 - Welcome to Sydney, Australia!

The Australian Essentials - Day 1
Arrive into Sydney

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.

Private Transfer from Sydney Airport to your Accommodation

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

Your accommodation: A by Adina Sydney

Just moments from Australia Square, A by Adina Sydney features stylish Studio to two-bedroom apartments with floor-to-ceiling city views and premium designer amenities. Sip sunset cocktails and savor decadent dishes at Dean & Nancy on 22, then explore the very best of Sydney from your doorstep - only minutes from The Rocks and the vibrant Circular Quay.

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Day 2 - Today you can explore the iconic Sydney sights and get to know this lively city

The Australian Essentials - Day 2
Panoramic Sydney Sights Tour with AEA Luxury Tours

Explore Sydney's rich history and vibrant coastal scene on this small group tour. Begin in the Rocks, learning about early convict life and marvelling at 18th-century sandstone architecture. From Mrs. Macquaries Point, capture iconic photos of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Travel through the affluent Eastern Suburbs, passing through Kings Cross and Double Bay en route to Watsons Bay for a coastal walk. Conclude your tour at famous Bondi Beach, where you can feel the sand between your toes and watch surfers before returning to the city through the stylish boutiques of Paddington.

Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise with Cruise Sydney

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.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Your accommodation: A by Adina Sydney

Just moments from Australia Square, A by Adina Sydney features stylish Studio to two-bedroom apartments with floor-to-ceiling city views and premium designer amenities. Sip sunset cocktails and savor decadent dishes at Dean & Nancy on 22, then explore the very best of Sydney from your doorstep - only minutes from The Rocks and the vibrant Circular Quay.

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Day 3 - Tour the Opera House!

The Australian Essentials - Day 3
Sydney Opera House Tour

Step inside one of the world’s most iconic architectural wonders with the Sydney Opera House Tour. Discover the rich history, breathtaking design, and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site as you explore its striking interiors. Led by an expert guide, the tour takes you through the Opera House's stunning performance spaces, including the famous Concert Hall and Drama Theatre, offering a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes. Learn about the creative vision behind its construction, from its innovative design to its engineering challenges, and hear captivating stories of performances that have taken place over the decades. Whether you’re a lover of architecture, history, or the arts, this guided tour offers a unique and insightful experience, giving you a deeper connection to one of Sydney's most celebrated landmarks. The Sydney Opera House Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Sydney.

Sydney Discover 24h Hop On Hop Off with Big Bus Tours

Explore the best of Australia’s famous Harbour City with the Discover Tour by Big Bus. This flexible pass allows you to navigate Sydney’s most iconic landmarks at your own pace across two comprehensive routes. The City Tour showcases architectural marvels like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, alongside the historic Rocks district and the bustling Sydney Fish Market. For those seeking coastal beauty, the Bondi Tour heads to the glamorous Eastern Bays and the world-famous sands of Bondi Beach. With open-top views and engaging commentary, it is the ultimate introduction to Sydney’s vibrant culture and scenery.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Summit with Bridgeclimb Sydney

Experience the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Sydney, whilst scaling the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge on BridgeClimb’s original Climb experience. Feel on top of the world as you journey along the upper arch to the peak of an Australian icon, soaking in the stories from your expert Climb Leader and the sights of the Harbour and the City skyline that surround you.

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: A by Adina Sydney

Just moments from Australia Square, A by Adina Sydney features stylish Studio to two-bedroom apartments with floor-to-ceiling city views and premium designer amenities. Sip sunset cocktails and savor decadent dishes at Dean & Nancy on 22, then explore the very best of Sydney from your doorstep - only minutes from The Rocks and the vibrant Circular Quay.

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Day 4 - Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains and be immersed its natural wonders

The Australian Essentials - Day 4
Blue Mountains All-Inclusive Small Group Day Tour

Spend the day exploring the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains, Scenic World, and surrounding areas. The tour offers breathtaking views taking in a selection of unique lookout points surrounding Jamison Valley. Away from the crowds, marvel at the vast, jaw-dropping valley views while breathing in fresh, eucalyptus-infused air. Join in on guided walks to see cascades and spectacular lookouts away from the large tour groups. Marvel at the beauty of the Three Sisters and listen to informative commentary from local Blue Mountain guides.

Blue Mountains

The World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains is a wilderness area showcasing ancient rock formations, vast canyons and waterfalls plummeting into valleys below. The breathtaking views over the region stretch to the hazy blue horizon, while the historic village towns nestled amongst the rainforest are dotted with tea rooms, cellar doors and breweries hosted by local producers. There is no shortage of adventure in the Blue Mountains with the rugged sandstone escarpments, underground caves and deep canyons providing the perfect playground for rock climbing, abseiling, canyoning and more. Of course, relaxation is also on the cards with a number of resorts, boutique guesthouses and day spas throughout.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Your accommodation: A by Adina Sydney

Just moments from Australia Square, A by Adina Sydney features stylish Studio to two-bedroom apartments with floor-to-ceiling city views and premium designer amenities. Sip sunset cocktails and savor decadent dishes at Dean & Nancy on 22, then explore the very best of Sydney from your doorstep - only minutes from The Rocks and the vibrant Circular Quay.

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Day 5 - Fly to Cairns and Tropical North Queensland for sun and reef adventures

The Australian Essentials - Day 5
Private Transfer from your Accommodation to Sydney Airport

A private driver will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Sydney Airport in time for your departing flight.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Domestic Flight - Sydney to Cairns

This cost for this flight is additional to your tour, we can book this flight for you.

Arrive into Cairns

Welcome to Cairns, a city rich in history and natural wonders. For more than 40,000 years, this tropical paradise has been home to Indigenous Australians, with its cultural heritage still evident today. Settled by Europeans in 1876 during the gold rush, Cairns has since evolved into a thriving destination famously known as "where the rainforest meets the reef." As the gateway to the ancient Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns offers unparalleled access to two of nature’s greatest treasures. Explore the vibrant Esplanade, where you’ll find a stunning swimming lagoon, lively weekend markets, and a variety of dining options to suit every taste. Cairns is ready to welcome you to its unforgettable tropical charm.

Private Transfer from Cairns Airport to your Accommodation with Exemplar Coaches

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

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Spirit of Cairns Dinner Cruise

Cap off a perfect day in paradise with an unforgettable Cairns dinner cruise—step aboard a luxurious sailing catamaran and glide along the tranquil waters of Trinity Inlet. As the tropical port city transforms from day to night, soak in the serene ambiance, breathtaking views, and soothing sounds of this enchanting coastal haven.

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Oaks Cairns Hotel

Situated on the Cairns Esplanade, minutes from the CBD and the Esplanade Precinct. The brand new property offers modern facilities, amenities and an amazing roof top bar! Explore the hustle and bustle the city has to offer or head up to view the city offering with a beverage!

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Day 6 - Cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef and dip your toes in, returning to Cairns in style via helicopter

The Australian Essentials - Day 6
Reef Cruise and Helicopter Flight with Down Under Cruise & Dive - Lunch Included

Cruise onboard the luxury superyacht, Evolution, to the Outer Great Barrier Reef from Cairns. Over 4 and a half hours of reef time, you will visit two exclusive reef sites, providing plenty of time to snorkel, relax and sunbathe on one of Evolution's three spacious deck levels. Snorkel or join a Semi-Submersible tour with live commentary from a marine expert or take advantage of Evolution’s extensive lounging areas to simply relax or soak up some tropical sun. Your day includes a delicious freshly cooked Aussie BBQ lunch consisting of fish, steak, a variety of salads and tasty ocean prawns. On the return trip to Cairns, you will board a helicopter, where your highly skilled pilot will share their local knowledge of the region while on the lookout for Turtles, Dolphins, Manta Rays, large schools of pelagic fish and even majestic Humpback Whales (Jul-Sep).

Great Barrier Reef

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. The Great Barrier Reef is usually accessed via the main ports of Airlie Beach in the Whitsundays and the tropical city of Cairns, although the coast of Far North Queensland harbours many other beautiful towns that provide tours to the reef.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Your accommodation: Oaks Cairns Hotel

Situated on the Cairns Esplanade, minutes from the CBD and the Esplanade Precinct. The brand new property offers modern facilities, amenities and an amazing roof top bar! Explore the hustle and bustle the city has to offer or head up to view the city offering with a beverage!

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Day 7 - Explore Cairns and take in the surrounding rainforest beauty

The Australian Essentials - Day 7
Explore Cairns at leisure

Cairns is known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, and Queensland's tropical north. It is a laid-back town with a relaxed way of life, ideal for people who enjoy the outdoors and tropical nature. Have a stroll along Cairns esplanade, discover open-air markets, and grab a coffee in one of the brilliant al fresco cafes. After that, you can cool off in the sparkling Esplanade Lagoon. This saltwater pool is lined with parks, shady banyan trees, boardwalks, and barbeques. If you feel active and energized, you can join free outdoor exercise classes, such as yoga, Zumba, pilates, or beach volleyball, held six mornings a week along the Esplanade. In the afternoon, you can visit Cairns Botanic Gardens, with their spectacular plant collection. The gardens feature rainforest vegetation and many interesting species of flowers. You can bring your snacks for the picnic or grab a snack in the cafeteria. You should also explore the Cairns Aquarium, which is dedicated to local species and habitats, with over 16,000 specimens on display. It is home to incredible sea creatures, from sharks to snakes. In the evening, enjoy fresh seafood in one of the gourmet restaurants or a refreshing cocktail in a waterfront bar with its amazing ocean views and great vibes.

Private Transfer from your Cairns Accommodation to your Port Douglas Accommodation

A private driver will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to your Port Douglas Accommodation. 

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Peninsula Boutique Hotel Port Douglas

Port Douglas accommodation offers a boutique style adults only hotel experience – enjoying an unrivalled beachside location overlooking Four Mile Beach and is the only hotel in Port Douglas with beach and ocean views. 40 metres to the beach and a 2 minute stroll to the heart of Port Douglas with its cosmopolitan boutiques, restaurants and entertainment options.

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Day 8 - Discover the Daintree Rainforest and learn about Aboriginal culture

The Australian Essentials - Day 8
Ngana Julaymba Dungay: We All Going Daintree Walkabout Cultural Adventures Full Day Tour - Lunch Included

Spend the day with a local Aboriginal tour guide, learning about culturally significant areas and the relationships the Kuku Yalanji people still have with their land. Learn the history, culture and traditions of the local Aboriginal people and the area. Walk through the rainforest and coastal habitats learning about the different environments, different foods and medicines utilised from nature, sample some seasonal bush tucker, collect shellfish and learn traditional Aboriginal hunting practices, have a go at spear throwing and if you are lucky, catch a mud crab. Complete the adventure by cooling off in a pristine freshwater stream.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Your accommodation: Peninsula Boutique Hotel Port Douglas

Port Douglas accommodation offers a boutique style adults only hotel experience – enjoying an unrivalled beachside location overlooking Four Mile Beach and is the only hotel in Port Douglas with beach and ocean views. 40 metres to the beach and a 2 minute stroll to the heart of Port Douglas with its cosmopolitan boutiques, restaurants and entertainment options.

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Day 9 - Experience waterfalls, wetlands and the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

The Australian Essentials - Day 9
Waterfall, Wetlands and Skyrail with Down Under Tours

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Wet Tropics rainforest on this full-day tour. Start with a guided walk through the Cattana Wetlands, a unique palm forest. Learn about the local flora and fauna from your driver-guide. Then, travel to Barron Falls, where a Djabugay Aboriginal guide will share their cultural perspective and lead a special "Calling to Country" ceremony. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Skybury Coffee Plantation, Australia's oldest coffee farm. Afterward, cool off with some locally-made ice cream at Emerald Creek. Finally, soar above the rainforest canopy on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, taking in breathtaking views and enjoying guided walks at the stations. 

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Peninsula Boutique Hotel Port Douglas

Port Douglas accommodation offers a boutique style adults only hotel experience – enjoying an unrivalled beachside location overlooking Four Mile Beach and is the only hotel in Port Douglas with beach and ocean views. 40 metres to the beach and a 2 minute stroll to the heart of Port Douglas with its cosmopolitan boutiques, restaurants and entertainment options.

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Day 10 - Fly to the spiritual heart of Australia, the Red Centre

The Australian Essentials - Day 10
Private Transfer from your Accommodation to Cairns Airport

A private driver will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Cairns Airport in time for your departing flight.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Own Arrangements Domestic Flight - Cairns to Yulara (Ayers Rock Airport)

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.

Yulara

Yulara is the resort township situated 10 minutes' drive from the entry to Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park. This small outpost is the central hub that supports tourism around Uluru but also helps to protect the fragile ecosystem and spiritual centre of Australia from modern human impact. Yulara hosts approximately 250,000 visitors each year in its range of accommodations ranging from glamping to poolside resorts. Take the opportunity during your visit to walk the path through desert vegetation to Imalung Lookout in the very centre of the village, providing stunning, uninterrupted views of Uluru.

Transfer from Ayers Rock Airport to Ayers Rock Resort

After collecting your luggage, simply follow the courtesy hotel transfers signs. Locate the AAT Kings coach displaying your resort name and hop on board. Your driver will then deliver you directly to your accommodation, just a short 10-minute journey away. 

Field of Light Uluru Dinner with Voyages Indigenous Tourism

Your evening begins with a transfer to a remote desert location, offering majestic views of Uluru as the sun sets. Enjoy gourmet canapés and chilled sparkling wine accompanied by the sound of a didgeridoo. As darkness falls and the 50,000 glass spheres of Bruce Munro’s Field of Light gently illuminate the desert, take your seat for a three-course bush-tucker-inspired buffet, perfectly paired with premium Australian wines. After dinner, explore the softly glowing pathways of the installation and learn from your host about its story and inspiration. Finally, settle beneath the southern night sky for a star talk, decoding the constellations and the wonders of the outback.

Meals included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner

Your accommodation: Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel

Nestled in the heart of the majestic Red Centre, Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel offers a serene and stylish retreat, surrounded by the stunning desert landscape of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. The hotel features beautifully landscaped gardens and contemporary rooms that provide the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a refreshing outdoor pool and relaxing dining options.

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Day 11 - Experience a Patji Aboriginal Hosted Cultural Tour at Uluru

The Australian Essentials - Day 11
Patji Aboriginal Hosted Cultural Tour with SEIT Outback Australia

Learn and listen from Aboriginal Traditional Owners about the history of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and gain an exclusive touring experience around Patji. Patji is located south of Uluru, just outside of Uluru-Kata National Park. During this authentic cultural experience, you will join your Aboriginal guide in a 4WD adventure, exploring the unique landscape and being taught of the fight for Aboriginal Land rights. Visit a remote shelter to hear about desert survival followed by a visit to a private sand dune with incredible expansive views of the desert.

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel

Nestled in the heart of the majestic Red Centre, Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel offers a serene and stylish retreat, surrounded by the stunning desert landscape of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. The hotel features beautifully landscaped gardens and contemporary rooms that provide the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a refreshing outdoor pool and relaxing dining options.

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Day 12 - Enjoy the Kata Tjuta Morning Tour & Wintjiri Wiru Twilight Experience

The Australian Essentials - Day 12
Kata Tjuta Morning Tour with SEIT Outback Australia - Breakfast Included

Revel in the early morning serenity of a truly spiritual place as the sunrise colours change on Kata Tjuta. Enjoy a picnic breakfast overlooking this Central Australian icon. Learn about this diverse environment whilst walking between the mighty conglomerate rock walls into Walpa Gorge and hearing how the 36 domes that makeup Kata Tjuta have evolved over millions of years. Take time to listen to the wind (Walpa) far above and view the scale of the rock walls that surround you. The spirituality of this amazing location embraces everyone who ventures here.

Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner with Voyages Indigenous Tourism

Perched on a secluded sand dune with breathtaking views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park, the Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner is a truly immersive outback experience. Begin your evening with cocktails infused with native ingredients and canapés as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the desert in rich hues. Then enjoy a gourmet hamper-style dinner, thoughtfully crafted from native Australian produce and paired with premium wines. As darkness falls, the desert comes alive with an extraordinary display of drones, lasers, and projections, accompanied by a traditional Inma soundtrack, telling the ancient Mala story of the Anangu people. Combining world-class cuisine, cultural storytelling, and the awe-inspiring desert landscape, this exclusive experience creates an unforgettable evening under the Southern Desert sky.

Meals included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner

Your accommodation: Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel

Nestled in the heart of the majestic Red Centre, Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel offers a serene and stylish retreat, surrounded by the stunning desert landscape of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. The hotel features beautifully landscaped gardens and contemporary rooms that provide the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a refreshing outdoor pool and relaxing dining options.

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Day 13 - Change your scenery as you depart Yulara and fly to Melbourne

The Australian Essentials - Day 13
Transfer from Ayers Rock Resort to Ayers Rock Airport

Return transfers to the airport depart from outside your hotel approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes prior to your scheduled flight departure. Please check with reception for exact departure times.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Own Arrangements Domestic Flight - Yulara (Ayers Rock Airport) to Melbourne

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.

Arrive into Melbourne

Welcome to Melbourne, a city that thrives on creativity, diversity, and an undeniable energy. Stroll through its laneways, where vibrant street art and tucked-away cafes create a buzzing atmosphere, or step into historic arcades like the Block Arcade, offering boutique shopping with a touch of old-world charm. The city’s dining scene is legendary, from multicultural precincts like Lygon Street to the bustling Queen Victoria Market, where fresh produce and artisan treats tempt every palate. Outdoors, Melbourne provides riverside walks along the Yarra, the tranquillity of the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the beachside vibe of St Kilda

Private Transfer from Melbourne Airport to your Accommodation

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

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise on Melbourne River Cruises

Indulge in an evening aboard the Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise, with Melbourne River Cruises. This elegant experience offers a unique perspective of Melbourne's glittering cityscape as you dine on a meticulously crafted multi-course menu featuring fresh, local produce. Glide along the tranquil waters of the Yarra River, passing iconic landmarks like Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, and the Arts Centre, all beautifully illuminated against the night sky. Live entertainment provides the perfect soundtrack to your journey, creating a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere. The Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise promises an evening of culinary delights, stunning views, and an unparalleled ambience. Relax, unwind, and create lasting memories as Melbourne unfolds before you.

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Vibe Hotel Melbourne

Discover the changing and unchanging face of Melbourne’s streetscape with a stay in the heart of the CBD. Vibe Hotel Melbourne dominates the intersection of Melbourne’s iconic Flinders and Queen Streets and allows guests to lose themselves in the city’s famed laneways and historic arcades – all of which are in striking distance from the hotel.

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Day 14 - Spend a day exploring the heart of Melbourne at your own pace

The Australian Essentials - Day 14
Explore Melbourne at leisure

Melbourne is the cool, artsy capital of the state of Victoria. Renowned for its laneway art, cafes, bars, restaurants and museums, there is no shortage of things to do, see, eat and drink. Grab a coffee on Degraves Street, see the murals on Hosier Lane or Blender Lane, pop over to St Kilda and stroll along the promenade or visit one of the many museums. For a spot of retail therapy, catch the 86 or 96 tram from the CBD to the bohemian Brunswick Street shopping district for an eclectic mix of second-hand vintage and high-end boutique stores. On the opposite side of the city, the Docklands open-air entertainment precinct boasts a myriad of public artwork, family fun activities such as glow-in-the-dark mini golf, and a variety of dining options lining the marina. Get there easily on the free City Circle tram, or wander over the Bourke Street footbridge. To make the most of your time in Melbourne, we recommend taking a city tour to get true local insight into this vibrant city.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Flavours of Melbourne Night Trail with Foodie Trails

Tonight, join the Flavours of Melbourne Night Trail for an unforgettable culinary adventure in one of the world's most vibrant and diverse cities. Melbourne, celebrated for its cultural fusion, offers a dynamic food scene where global culinary traditions converge. This evening tour will lead you through Melbourne’s eclectic cuisine and the lively Chinatown. Enjoy a progressive meal of an array of cultural tastes, mouth-watering desserts, and the city's renowned coffee, ideal for a decaf nightcap.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Wine, Wildlife & Penguins Tour on Phillip Island

Experience Phillip Island like a local as you enjoy delicious food & wine, wildlife encounters, and spectacular sightseeing opportunities; finishing with the famed Phillip Island Penguin Parade. Departing from Melbourne, your adventure begins at Phillip Island's gateway, San Remo. Indulge in a guided wine tasting and enjoy a delightful grazing platter at the Phillip Island Winery. Next, explore the picturesque coastal town of Cowes, known for its golden sandy beaches, or take a leisurely walk through the eucalypt-lined paths of the Koala Conservation Reserve.. As the day transitions into evening, we'll visit pristine beaches and scenic wildlife boardwalks, home to abundant Australian wildlife. The day concludes with the unforgettable Penguin Parade, where you'll witness thousands of penguins making their way up the beach at sunset. All led by your friendly, local guide, and with the comfort of your Premium Seating ticket on board. 

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Vibe Hotel Melbourne

Discover the changing and unchanging face of Melbourne’s streetscape with a stay in the heart of the CBD. Vibe Hotel Melbourne dominates the intersection of Melbourne’s iconic Flinders and Queen Streets and allows guests to lose themselves in the city’s famed laneways and historic arcades – all of which are in striking distance from the hotel.

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Day 15 - Explore the Great Ocean Road with its stunning coastal vistas

The Australian Essentials - Day 15
Two Day Great Ocean Road Tour with ANT Touring

Discover the wonders of the Great Ocean Road on an intimate two-day small group tour. Travel from Melbourne through Geelong and Torquay, spotting kangaroos and koalas in the wild, and enjoy scenic stops including the Memorial Arch and Apollo Bay. Stay overnight in a villa overlooking the ocean and savour dinner at the acclaimed Chris’s Restaurant. Explore the ancient rainforests of the Otways, marvel at the 12 Apostles in the soft morning light, uncover shipwreck tales at Loch Ard Gorge, and visit London Bridge and the Bay of Islands.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Your accommodation: Beacon Point Ocean View Villas (or similar)

Relax, unwind, rejuvenate at Beacon Point Ocean View Villas. With the rainforests and valleys of the Otway Ranges at your back and spectacular views across the Southern Ocean from your private deck, you’ll be immersed in an unforgettable experience. Beacon Point Ocean View Villas are elevated above the Great Ocean Road at Skene’s Creek, just minutes from bustling Apollo Bay.

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Day 16 - Discover the Shipwreck Coast & the Twelve Apostles’ dramatic coastline

The Australian Essentials - Day 16
Shipwreck Coast & the 12 Apostles

The second day of this incredible journey travels through the Otway Ranges and visit Shipwreck Coast. Visit the icons of the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge - the site of the most famous 19th-century Australian shipwreck. Return to Melbourne travelling through some of Australia’s most fertile land and the world's third-largest Volcanic plain.

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Vibe Hotel Melbourne

Discover the changing and unchanging face of Melbourne’s streetscape with a stay in the heart of the CBD. Vibe Hotel Melbourne dominates the intersection of Melbourne’s iconic Flinders and Queen Streets and allows guests to lose themselves in the city’s famed laneways and historic arcades – all of which are in striking distance from the hotel.

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Day 17 - Farewell from Australia

The Australian Essentials - Day 17
Private Transfer from your Accommodation to Melbourne Airport

A private driver will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Melbourne Airport in time for your departing flight.

Farewell from Melbourne

Your tour comes to an end today, but if you are itching to explore more amazing sights, we can customise your holiday to include more days or additional destinations. Our trusted travel specialists can book transfers to your onward flight, and even assist in booking these flights for you. Our team can't wait to help you design your ultimate getaway!

Meals included: Breakfast

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