From quiet coastal towns and lush vegetation to eclectic cities and world-class museums, the expansive land that makes up this gorgeous oceanic country is home to a lot more than well-known Sydney and its Opera House, the Outback or other stops like Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. And while all these iconic destinations certainly are worthy of a visit, these five distinct cities located around the country each offer the quintessential Australian experience with a touch of individuality.
Cairns
Located in northern Queensland, Cairns is a thriving tropical city with a laid-back atmosphere. Situated on Australia’s coast, this destination is at its best when experienced outdoors, especially considering its accessibility to the Great Barrier Reef. Depending on a traveler’s location on the coast and what part of the reef they wish to visit, a fun-filled day of scuba diving and snorkeling is only a 30-minute boat ride away. While the reef is certainly a site to behold, Cairns shouldn’t be overlooked for its on-land natural oddities either. Here, visitors can explore the Wet Tropics, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its rich biodiversity. In fact, at roughly 100 million years old, the Wet Tropics is older than the Amazon rainforest!
With all these natural sites located around Cairns, it’s important for travelers to head into the city too. The Cairns Esplanade is a great starting point to get acclimated to the city as it offers everything from open-air markets to trendy cafes, civic theater productions and even a saltwater lagoon.
Adelaide
South Australia’s coastal capital, this city is not for the faint of heart as its Mediterranean climate boasts hot summers and mild winters. If the warm temps are no bother, then Adelaide is a perfect destination with its abundance of sunny activities. Sample a taste of Australia at the Adelaide Central Market where visitors can shop local fruits, vegetables, cheese, seafood and quirky ingredients. Or, perhaps, liquid sampling is preferred, and seeing as South Australia is the country’s wine capital, heading to one of the three wine regions bordering the city will offer visitors a taste of both world-renowned and under-the-radar wines.
Work off all those good eats by heading to either Glenelg or Brighton Beach where swimming and surfing are encouraged. Family-friendly boutiques, cafes and restaurants line the strip at both locations, providing a relaxing reprieve from the Australian sun. Kayaking the River Torrens, attending Illuminate Adelaide, an annual arts festival held each July, or catching a sporting match at the Adelaide Oval are other popular activities to experience this bustling city.
Hobart
Moving off Australia’s mainland to the island state of Tasmania, rugged outdoor adventures meets modern living in the capital city of Hobart. As Australia’s second oldest city, there’s plenty of history here including the Royal Tasmania Botanical Gardens, which features unique cultural heritage landscapes, and the Cascade Brewery, Australia’s oldest, opening back in 1824. Hobart is also well-known for MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, located under the city streets. More than just an art gallery, MONA includes numerous food and wine spots, bars, restaurants, live music, a library, a recording studio and a tennis court. As it was designed with the intent of exploration, visitors should consider leaving ample time to embrace the creativity of the museum.
Back aboveground, the Saturday tradition of the Salamanca Market showcases over 300 stallholders selling fresh produce and handmade products in addition to breakfast and lunch options. For over 50 years, the market has been satiating its visitors’ big appetites, especially those in need of fuel before hiking up kunanyi/Mount Wellington, the tallest peak of the Wellington Range overlooking the city. Above or below the city streets, Hobart offers activities for every type of traveler.
Darwin
The capital city of the Northern Territory and perched on a harbor five times the size of Sydney’s, Darwin may seem like an overwhelmingly large city but is better known for its relaxed, small-town feel. A staple for most Australian cities, the Mindil Beach Sunset Market provides a perfect opportunity for visitors to explore the streets while sampling local foods and flavors. Travelers who are feeling brave or are simply intrigued by Australia’s wildlife should head to Crocosaurus Cove which houses the largest display of Australian reptiles, including the menacing saltwater crocodile.
Darwin also has ties to the Aboriginal community, so a visit to this city makes for the best time to discover this group’s history. Spend the day roaming the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory which features contemporary works and paintings by highly collectable Aboriginal artists. Or embark on a trip to the Tiwi Islands where most residents are of Aboriginal descent and famous for their traditional lifestyle, artwork, textiles and die-hard passion for Australian Rules Football. No matter how a traveler chooses to experience the vibrant city of Darwin, each day spent here will be nothing short of an adventure.
Perth
Another capital city, this one located in Western Australia, Perth is loved for its delicate blend of tranquil, soft-sand beaches and a colorful social scene. Elizabeth Quay contributes to this lively energy as public artwork, promenades, bars and restaurants fill the area, a perfect stop for exploring the city. Heading away from these busy streets and moving into Kings Park and Botanic Garden, this lush patch of greenery not only showcases Australia’s native flora and fauna but also highlights the park’s State War Memorial. A breathtaking view of the Darling Range looms on the horizon, completing this picturesque view.
Visitors seeking a taste of the classic Australian beach experience can find sunny skies, blue water and relaxation at Cottesloe Beach, an iconic destination among travelers. Don’t be afraid to hang ten and catch a wave surfing, or perhaps a gentle swim is the way to go. For more water-related activities in an off-the-radar area, travelers can take a day trip to Rottnest Island. This area not only promises secluded beaches, but guests should keep an eye out for quokka sightings, the cute marsupial often considered the world’s happiest animal.
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