I am finishing up a 6 month trip in Australia. These are some of the things I recommend checking out in some of the cities I have visited. I will keep updating as I travel since I haven’t left quite yet.
Map
Sections
4
Melbourne
Sydney
Cairns
Adelaide
Melbourne
I spent about 2 months in Melbourne and it was great. So many food spots, shopping, cool trendy bars, and loads to do. I found it significantly less crowded then Sydney and the people more friendly (that’s just my opinion sorry). The city is large an...
During winter they also run the market at night which is worth checking out!
Queen Victoria Market
This is a block of shops is Melbourne that is often recommended. Fun to stroll through, take photos and window shop. There are many arcades/shopping centers in Melbourne but this one is definitely aesthetically pleasing.
Royal Arcade Melbourne
Vintage and homemade clothing and craft fair. Some of the items can be a bit pricy but a lot of cool things.
The Rose St. Artists' Market
I just love a garden.
Fitzroy Gardens
I preferred the Queen Victoria Market but this one also had some unique items and is worth checking out if you have some extra time to spare.
South Melbourne Market
Another market for vintage clothes and crafts. Small but good. I would recommend checking it out then checking out some of the other thrift stores in Fitzroy.
I only spent a few day in Sydney so I only got to do a few of the highlights. I personally thought the city was a bit crowded but the architecture and city itself was gorgeous.
I preferred Manly beach to Bondi. It was less crowded and was super easy to get to by ferry
Manly Beach - Things to do, accommodation & more
I felt obligated to include but it is definitely worth seeing. I got amazing views on my ferry to Manly beach but you could also take tours inside (or on top of)
Sydney Opera House
My favorite place in all of Sydney. Very whimsical little garden with stunning views of the bay. I think the only part of the city not horribly crowded.
Wendy's Secret Garden
The famous Bondi beach icebergs. Bondi beach was not my favorite beachbut I think the icebergs (the pools) are worth checking out
Bondi Icebergs
A popular scenic walk from Bondi to Coogee beaches. Beautiful view the entire time and plenty of places to stop and jump in the water.
Your guide to the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
Cairns
I loved Cairns. A small town but fun, lively, little tropical oasis. Most of the people there are backpackers from other countries but everyone is friendly and social. Easy place to meet people and make friends.
Open daily, great for souvenirs and massages
Cairns Night Markets
Great for a night out and photos
Mexicairns
You’ve probably already heard about this place. I don’t recommend staying here unless partying is your vibe (I did not stay here) but it is fun for an occasional night out.
Gilligans - Cairns
I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: I I’ve a garden. The Rainforest Boardwalk is so incredible
Botanic Gardens
Oceanside pool is great to cool down in the tropical cairns heat. Stunning ocean backdrop
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Scuba or snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef. There are many companies that offer day and over night trips.
Passions Of Paradise
Oldest rainforest in the world and absolutely stunning. A few ways to get to it if you don’t have a car there are tour companies that can take you there and show you around (Uncle Brian is a popular one)
Daintree Rainforest
Kuranda is really cute town up in the jungle. You can take the sky rail up and then the train back down. There’s also trails and a little lake to swim in. Definitely worth checking out.
Skyrail & Kuranda Scenic Railway
Great way to get local fruits and vegetables at a decent price. A few food, smoothie and coffee shops here as well but loads of fresh produce
Rustys Markets
Flea market with use, vintage and handmade goods. Small but still good. Sometimes they have themes or music but always a good vibe. Not every weekend and sometimes switches from Saturday and Sunday you may need to check website or Facebook for dates.
The Preloved Project
Adelaide
Adelaide is small but charming. Seems far more diverse then other cities I’ve passed through and I would have been interested in discovering more hidden gems here if had more time.