Begin an unforgettable 12-day journey through Australia’s most iconic destinations, showcasing the country’s stunning diversity. Start in Melbourne, a vibrant city rich in culture and history, before travelling along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic drives. Head to the continent's heart to explore the sacred landscapes of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, then relax in tropical Cairns, where the Great Barrier Reef offers a dazzling underwater world to discover. Finish your adventure in Sydney, exploring its world-famous landmarks, and take in the natural beauty of the nearby Blue Mountains.
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.
You will be met at the Melbourne Airport by the driver and transferred to your Melbourne accommodation.
Embark on a voyage aboard the Spirit of Melbourne, a luxurious floating restaurant where sophistication meets relaxation in perfect harmony. Step into a world of opulence and refinement as you are welcomed into an atmosphere of unparalleled elegance. Take your seat at a beautifully adorned table and brace yourself for an adventure like no other. Prepare to be dazzled by a culinary symphony orchestrated by masterful chefs, each dish a masterpiece meticulously crafted from the finest locally sourced ingredients. Every bite is a revelation, a tantalizing fusion of flavours that celebrates Melbourne's vibrant heritage. As you indulge your senses, let your gaze wander through the expansive panoramic windows, revealing breathtaking vistas of Melbourne's iconic waterfront. Cruise along the majestic Yarra River, where each twist and turn unveils a new spectacle, a captivating tapestry of landmarks and cityscapes that dance in the moonlight. Let the ever-changing scenery cast its spell upon you, transforming your dining experience into a mesmerizing journey of discovery. From the vibrant hustle and bustle of the city to the serene beauty of the riverbanks, every moment aboard the Spirit of Melbourne is a testament to the magic of this cosmopolitan gem.
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.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.
Within moments of Melbourne’s cultural Arts precinct, you are cruising through Melbourne’s picturesque gardens, parkland and some of the city's famous sporting arenas.
The Melbourne hidden bar culture is a unique part of Australia’s cultural capital. The difficult thing is just that – they’re hidden! This city makes you work to find its best bits, which is why you’ll find some of the best bars behind other venues, underneath laneways, or tucked into repurposed spaces.
Join an experienced guide and uncover four of these fascinating venues in one afternoon, and learn what makes each one special over a drink, or four. Speak with talented bartenders during this small-group experience, making sure to chat with them about what kinds of drinks you like to personalise your Melbourne Hidden Bars Tour even more.
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.Experience this majestic coastal drive in style with this small group tour. Enjoy time to relax and fully appreciate the wonders of this world-famous touring route. Stay on the lookout for some very special animals including whales, dolphins, echidnas and bandicoots, you’ll also be taken to the best hiding spots for koalas and kangaroos in the wild. The first stop will be at Apollo Bay, a tranquil seaside town which is most noteworthy for its setting among the soft rolling hills. It offers a great selection of cafes and restaurants where you can stop and enjoy some lunch. Following this, you will enjoy a walk in the forest in the Otway Ranges. Cap the day off with a visit to the famous 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
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.You will be met at your Melbourne accommodation by the driver and transferred to the Melbourne Airport.
This 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 for an additional cost.
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.
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.
This exclusive dining experience combines the award-winning ‘Sounds of Silence’ dinner under the outback sky with the once-in-a-lifetime Field of Light art installation.
With magnificent views of Uluru at sunset, a three-course bush tucker menu, premium selection of Australian wines and beers, fascinating star talk and a self-guided walk through the Field of Light art installation, your ‘A Night at Field of Light’ experience is complete.
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.More than just a photo opportunity, this national park holds the wisdom of ancient lands and their custodians - a living cultural landscape where the earth and its people exist as one. It is, of course, home to the awe-inspiring rock formation, Uluru. This natural feature is famous for the way the light plays on it during spectacular sunrises and sunsets and can be viewed from specially created viewing areas depending on the time of day you visit. If exploring geological marvels is a highlight for you, the domes of Kata Tjuta are just as spectacular as Uluru. The Anangu, the traditional owners of this land, believe that the physical landscapes of Uluru-Kata Tjuta were shaped by ancestral beings who still exist here today. At the entrance of the park, you will find the Cultural Centre, a free-form structure built entirely from locally-made mud bricks. Here you can learn about the Anangu, their culture and the area's natural environment. You can also marvel at traditional and contemporary art at the park's galleries, or check out the stunning art installation that overlooks the park, the Field of Light, after dark.
The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks Pass allows entry to explore these universally recognised natural wonders. You will be required to show your Uluru-Kata Tjuta Parks Pass at the park entry gates before entering Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Please have your pass ready to be scanned prior to arriving at this location.
Experience the tranquillity of the pre-dawn land under a canopy of stars. Watch the amazing transformation of colours and life as the desert awakens with Uluru and Kata Tjuta as your backdrop. In the company of your expert guide, Desert Awakenings is designed to introduce you to the natural and cultural landscapes of this remarkable region.
Travel for one hour on friendly camels in the spectacular desert landscape. Bringing you closer to nature, the skilled cameleers share stories of the Territory. Enjoy stunning views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta as you watch the colour change while the sun sets from atop a sand dune. Return to the farm at twilight to relax and enjoy Australian beer, wine, champagne and outback bush foods including their famous freshly baked beer bread damper.
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.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.
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.
Cairns was settled by Europeans in 1876 who arrived in search of gold. Modern-day Cairns is now seen as the city "where the rainforest meets the reef" as it is the gateway to both the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef for the many tourists that pass through each year.
The main tourist centre in town is along the Esplanade, which has a swimming lagoon, bustling weekend markets, and plenty of great food options.
You will be met at the Cairns Airport by the driver and transferred to your Cairns accommodation.
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.
Your accommodation: Pacific Hotel Cairns
Located on the Esplanade overlooking Trinity Harbour, Pacific Hotel Cairns offers stunning views from private balconies and easy access to the nearby Reef Fleet Terminal, shopping precinct and Esplanade Lagoon.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).
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.
Your accommodation: Pacific Hotel Cairns
Located on the Esplanade overlooking Trinity Harbour, Pacific Hotel Cairns offers stunning views from private balconies and easy access to the nearby Reef Fleet Terminal, shopping precinct and Esplanade Lagoon.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.
Experience this scenic journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway to the 'village in the rainforest'. Your day begins in Cairns as you board the train for a morning departure. Travel through unsurpassed views of World Heritage-listed rainforest and waterfalls, including Stoney Creek Falls and the breathtaking Barron Gorge. You will wind your way through 15 tunnels and over 37 bridges on your journey before reaching Kuranda, where you will have several hours to explore the village. Visit the award-winning attractions Birdworld, Kuranda Koala Gardens and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. In the afternoon you will board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a journey up and over the rainforest canopy, back to the Skyrail terminal where you will be transported back to the Cairns railway station.
Your accommodation: Pacific Hotel Cairns
Located on the Esplanade overlooking Trinity Harbour, Pacific Hotel Cairns offers stunning views from private balconies and easy access to the nearby Reef Fleet Terminal, shopping precinct and Esplanade Lagoon.You will be met at your Cairns accommodation by the driver and transferred to the Cairns Airport.
This 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 for an additional cost.
You will be met at the Sydney Airport by the driver and transferred to your Sydney accommodation.
There is no better way to get up close and personal with the living history and heritage of Sydney than on foot with Sydney’s most experienced tour guides on a 90-minute leisurely walk around Sydney’s historic Rocks district. Hear the story of Sydney from the beginning as you stroll along the shoreline of sparkling Sydney Harbour with views of the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Campbell’s Cove, and Cadman’s Cottage. Wander down hidden alleyways, into shady courtyards, and along cobbled lanes. Discover the nooks and crannies and get up close and personal with the living history and heritage of Australia’s first British settlement.
Be amazed by stories of the First Fleet 1788, the Nurses Walk, the Rum Rebellion 1808, the Suez Canal, the Argyle Cut 1840, the plague 1900, the Sydney Harbour Bridge 1920s, the diabolical 1970s plan to demolish The Rocks, and the green bans that saved it. And of course, hear of the characters and rogues who called it home. Today, The Rocks is renowned for having the oldest streets in Sydney which are dotted with beautifully restored nineteenth-century buildings.
Your accommodation: Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour
Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour offers a modern, vibrant escape in the heart of Sydney, where contemporary design meets a lively city atmosphere. Situated just moments from the iconic Darling Harbour, the Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour features Stylish rooms with a rooftop pool, a range of dining options and a well-equipped fitness centre.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 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.
Located on the lands of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is Australia’s oldest scientific institution and one of the earliest botanic gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. Set on the historic site of first contact between the Eora and Europeans, this lush oasis lies between Circular Quay, the Sydney Opera House, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales, offering spectacular views over Sydney Harbour.
The garden boasts thousands of plant species and a rich array of wildlife, including colourful birds, fruit bats, and water dragons. Visitors can explore themed areas such as the Cadi Jam Ora: First Encounters Garden, which shares the story of the Gadigal People through native plants and interpretive displays. Another highlight is The Calyx, a state-of-the-art horticultural center featuring dynamic exhibitions that celebrate botany and environmental awareness.
For those looking to relax, the garden’s café and restaurant provide delicious dining options paired with stunning views, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of discovery.
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.
Step aboard a modern 78ft cruiser to begin your stunning Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise. 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. The Sydney Harbour is photogenic at any time, but sunset is particularly special, and once the sun goes down, the gleaming cityscape comes alive in glittering lights. This dinner cruise allows you to experience the harbour from both beautiful perspectives.
This dinner experience is a long, lavish affair, with generous meals showcasing locally sourced and regionally influenced delicacies, paired with an expansive collection of beers, wine, soft drinks, tea, or coffee.
Your accommodation: Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour
Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour offers a modern, vibrant escape in the heart of Sydney, where contemporary design meets a lively city atmosphere. Situated just moments from the iconic Darling Harbour, the Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour features Stylish rooms with a rooftop pool, a range of dining options and a well-equipped fitness centre.The Blue Mountains National Park is one of seven national parks that make up the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. This wonderland of sandstone outcrops, deep ravines and hazy blue eucalypt forests boasts luxury retreats and stunning views. This guided day tour will take you off the beaten track to visit remote lookout locations and discuss the history, flora, and fauna of this magnificent region.
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.
Your accommodation: Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour
Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour offers a modern, vibrant escape in the heart of Sydney, where contemporary design meets a lively city atmosphere. Situated just moments from the iconic Darling Harbour, the Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour features Stylish rooms with a rooftop pool, a range of dining options and a well-equipped fitness centre.You will be met at your Sydney accommodation by the driver and transferred to the Sydney Airport.
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!