Flight Centre’s Guide to the Best of Australia

New South Wales (NSW) is where bustling city life meets bushland, rolling vineyards, and endless sparkling coastlines. Think urban adventure, exceptional beaches, and picturesque national parks. At its heart lies Sydney, a vibrant metropolis brimming with culture, history, and iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Stroll through the historic laneways of The Rocks, absorb the creative energy of Newtown, or take a ferry across the harbour for picture-perfect views.

NSW’s coastline boasts some of the best beaches in the world, from the legendary Bondi Beach to the hidden coves of Jervis Bay, known for having some of the whitest beaches on Earth. Venture out to discover national parks like the Blue Mountains, where you can spot kangaroos and enjoy panoramic views. For an off-the-grid escape, head to Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO-listed paradise.

When to go: September to November (spring) and March to May (autumn) offer perfect weather without the summer crowds.

Wildlife & nature: Spot kangaroos in the Blue Mountains, see whales migrate along the coast, and visit Lord Howe Island for pristine nature and rare birdlife.

Must-see events:

• Vivid Sydney (May–June): A mesmerising festival of light, music, and ideas.
• Sculpture by the Sea (Oct–Nov): Outdoor art exhibition along the Bondi coastal walk.

Victoria may be Australia’s smallest mainland state, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in culture, gorgeous coastlines, and some extremely good coffee. Yep, that’s right, Melbourne, the undisputed coffee capital of Australia, takes its brews very seriously. Pair that with the city’s thriving art scene, live music, bustling laneways, and galleries galore, and you have a destination buzzing with creativity. Don’t miss the Great Ocean Road, where colossal cliffs tower over crystal-clear beaches, and koalas laze in the eucalyptus trees. A drive along this world-famous stretch is a must, offering spectacular views of the coast and stops at landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. Take a break in Fitzroy, Melbourne’s hipster hub, or visit St Kilda for some relaxed beachside fun.

When to go: March to May (autumn) and September to November (spring) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Wildlife & nature: See wild koalas along the Great Ocean Road, penguins waddle ashore on Phillip Island, and explore the stunning Grampians National Park. Visit Wilson’s Promontory National Park, where wombats roam freely.

Must-see events:

• Australian Open (January): Grand Slam tennis in Melbourne.
• White Night (Winter): A dazzling night-time festival of light, music, and art.

If you’re chasing sunshine, Queensland is the place to be. Home to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, this sun-drenched state is a playground for snorkellers, divers, and beach lovers. Imagine swimming alongside majestic sea turtles, dazzling coral gardens, and schools of tropical fish in one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems on Earth.

But Queensland isn’t just about what’s beneath the waves – its tropical islands, golden beaches, and lush rainforests are just as magical. Spend your time sailing around the Whitsundays, relaxing on the powdery white sands of Whitehaven Beach, or exploring the Daintree Rainforest (the world's oldest tropical rainforest). Make time to visit Brisbane, Queensland’s laid-back yet cosmopolitan capital, where riverfront dining, street art, and vibrant nightlife give the state a city-meets-nature vibe like no other.

When to go: April to October (dry season) is best for reef exploration and beach days.

Wildlife & nature: Snorkel with sea turtles in the reef, cuddle a koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, or meet cassowaries in the Daintree Rainforest.

Must-see events:

• Brisbane Festival (Sept): A celebration of arts, music, and fireworks.

Woodford Folk Festival (Dec–Jan): A quirky, culture-filled way to ring in the New Year.

World-class wine (check!), incredible wildlife (check!), rugged coastal landscapes (check!) – South Australia has it all. If you’re a wine lover, don’t skip out on a visit to the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Clare Valley, where luscious vineyards and charming cellar doors invite you to sip some of the world’s finest Shiraz and Riesling.

Keep an eye out for South Australia’s fascinating wildlife and see if you can spot sea lions basking on the sands of Seal Bay, kangaroos hopping along the shores of Kangaroo Island, or even swim with dolphins in the glittering waters of Glenelg. If stunning coastal scenery is more your style, drive the Eyre Peninsula, known for its wondrous cliffs, secluded beaches, and delicious seafood. And we can’t talk about South Australia without mentioning Adelaide, the state’s charming capital, where festival culture, buzzing markets, and a carefree lifestyle make it the perfect city break.

When to go: March to May (autumn) and September to November (spring) for mild weather and grape harvests.

Wildlife & nature: Spot sea lions at Seal Bay, swim with dolphins in Baird Bay, and explore the stunning Flinders Ranges.

Must-see events:

• Adelaide Fringe (Feb–March): Australia’s biggest arts festival.
• Tasting Australia (April–May): A dream for food and wine lovers.

Spanning almost a third of the country, Western Australia (WA) is a land of contrasts and staggering beauty. In Perth, soak up a laid-back beach lifestyle before hopping over to Rottnest Island for a quokka selfie and a bike ride along its stunning shores. Wine lovers can head south to the Margaret River region, where renowned wineries, gourmet food, and surf breaks await. Further north, Ningaloo Reef is a must-see for swimming with whale sharks, while the Kimberley offers dramatic red-rock gorges and cascading waterfalls. You could be chasing Indian Ocean sunsets or exploring the Pinnacles Desert, one thing’s certain – WA is adventure on a grand scale.

When to go: April to October is best for exploring Ningaloo Reef, while September brings incredible wildflower blooms.

Wildlife & nature: Swim with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef, meet friendly quokkas on Rottnest Island, and explore the Pinnacles Desert.

Must-see events:

• Margaret River Gourmet Escape (Nov): A food and wine festival by the sea.
• Perth Festival (Feb–March): Arts, film, and culture under the Western Australian sun.

If you love nature, you’ll love Tasmania. Almost half the island is protected wilderness, offering some of Australia’s most idyllic landscapes. Hike through the alpine beauty of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, conquer the legendary Overland Track, or stand atop the towering cliffs of Freycinet National Park, overlooking the turquoise waters of Wineglass Bay.

Beyond the wild, Tassie’s culture is just as captivating. Hobart’s Salamanca Market buzzes with local artisans and fresh produce, while MONA’s eccentric exhibits redefine the art experience. Indulge in top-tier whisky and seafood straight from the Southern Ocean, drive the East Coast Wine Trail, and spot wildlife on Bruny Island. And don’t miss the fiery-hued rock formations of the Bay of Fires to make your Tasmanian trip complete.

When to go: Summer (December–February) is ideal, but autumn’s changing leaves (March–May) are magical.

Wildlife & nature: See Tasmanian devils at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, hike through Bay of Fires, and chase waterfalls in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.

Must-see events:

• Dark Mofo (June): A weird and wonderful winter festival.
• Taste of Tasmania (Dec–Jan): Foodies, this one’s for you.

The Northern Territory is Australia at its most raw and awe-inspiring. In the Red Centre, witness the magic of Uluru at sunrise, hike through the majestic Kings Canyon, and discover Aboriginal rock art in Kata Tjuta. Head north to the Top End, where Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks offer captivating waterfalls, croc-filled billabongs, and ancient landscapes. Soak up Darwin’s easy-going energy, explore the Tiwi Islands, and cruise through the Katherine Gorge. From sacred desert icons to lush tropical escapes, the NT promises adventure and unforgettable memories.

When to go: May to September (dry season) offers the best weather for exploring.

Wildlife & nature: See crocodiles in Kakadu National Park, meet wild camels in the Red Centre, and watch sunsets over Mindil Beach.

Must-see events:

• Darwin Festival (August): A tropical celebration of arts, music, and food.
• Parrtjima (April): An Aboriginal light festival in Alice Springs.

Your Aussie Adventure Awaits…

Australia is vast, diverse, and perfect for any kind of traveller. A trip here means wandering through age-old rainforests teeming with wildlife, trekking across the ochre-hued landscapes of the Outback, snorkelling alongside vibrant coral gardens in the Great Barrier Reef, or savouring a glass of world-class Shiraz as the sun sets over sweeping coastal vineyards. And that’s just the beginning. At Flight Centre, our Aussie experts are here to turn your dream Down Under holiday into a reality, with a tailor-made itinerary that’s as unique as you are.

So, what are you waiting for? 

Chat with one of our friendly Travel Experts to start planning your Aussie adventure today! Get in touch below.