Travel Destinations: 7 Unmissable Cities in Australia

November 3, 2021

by Arianna Denitto

7 minutes read

Marvellous Australia is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. Any time of the year is perfect to visit the country, from the winter months (June-August) to the summer and warmer ones (December-February). With all the amazing places and experiences that it offers, its natural heritage, the culture, the music, the art, the deserts, the picturesque sea views and sun-kissed beaches, you are spoilt for choice. Here are 7 beautiful cities in Australia that we absolutely recommend you to visit!

1. Sydney

Cities in Australia: Sydney — Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

1.1 General Facts

The most important and populous city of Australia, Sydney is an unmissable stop in your tour of the country. Located in New South Wales, it hosts more than 5 million inhabitants and it occupies the 14th position in the list of global cities. Sydney is the great classic among the cities in Australia that will be the perfect choice if you want to discover Australian culture.

1.2 What To See

You definitely should check the most famous cultural sites such as The Science Museum and the majestic Opera House. Then proceed with Bondi Beach, Darling Harbour and Port Jackson. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a great panoramic view from Sydney’s highest monument, the Sydney Tower and from the stunning Sydney Harbour Bridge. And if you want to explore more, check out Sydney’s Chinatown, the Sydney Olympic Park, and the homonymous of London’s Hyde Park. If you get the chance to stay in Sydney for New Year’s Eve, you must watch the great firework show at midnight – it’s an unmissable event worldwide every year!

2. Melbourne

Cities in Australia: Melbourne — Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

2.1 General Facts

Melbourne is the beautiful capital of the Australian State of Victoria. It’s part of the area of Greater Melbourne, consisting in 31 municipalities, with a population of almost 5 million people. It’s one of the most liveable cities in Australia and the world, and it holds the title of UNESCO City of Literature thanks to its great cultural and artistic heritage. Not surprisingly, it’s here that the Australian cinema and TV were born. An unmissable destination in your Australian trip!

2.2 What To See

Did you know this wonderful city offers free public transport in the centre? You should start from the famous Queen Victoria Market, then proceed with the iconic Flinders Street Station and Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria and the Royal Exhibition Building. And of course the Melbourne Cricket Ground, home to the Melbourne Cricket Club, the most famous team in the city. As for museums, some that are worth checking out are the Immigration Museum, the Old Melbourne Gaol and, most importantly, the National Gallery of Victoria. In Victoria, there are also some beautiful places for skiing and snowboarding, like Mount Buller, where you can enjoy guided Mount Buller tours. Also don’t forget to look for the amazing street art of the city, take a stroll by Victoria Harbour and try to spot the penguins at St Kilda beach. You also may want to check the stunning Eureka Tower, located in the Southbank.

3. Adelaide

Adelaide, Australia — Adelaide, South Australia, Australia

3.1 General Facts

Moving on, we have the capital of South Australia, Adelaide. The name of this city comes from a queen consort of England from the 19th century, Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen. Moreover, it’s mostly known for it multicultural environment, with lots of freedom and diversity, and lively nightlife as well. So many people say it’s a great place to live! That being said, you definitely should add it to the list of must-see cities in Australia.

3.2 What To See

Surely you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the amazing Adelaide Central Market and the lively Rundle Mall. You can also book a heritage walking tour to discover all the beautiful buildings of the city, or enjoy a full immersion in nature at the Adelaide Botanic Garden and the Cleland Conservation Park. What’s more, you can book a boat tour on the River Torrens and discover the fascinating National Railway Museum.

4. Perth

4.1 General Facts

Let’s proceed with the capital of Western Australia, Perth. Actually, its name is an homage to the Scottish city. With its lively cultural heritage and lots of green spaces, it’s the best place for people who love art and nature. It’s one of the cities in Australia really worth visiting at least once!

4.2 What To See

For starters, check Kings Park and the Botanic Garden. Then have a look at the Swan River, the Hillarys Boat Harbour and the Bell Tower in Barrack Square. If you want to look more into the city’s architecture and history, St. Mary’s Cathedral and The Perth Mint are a great choice. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful beaches! And if you can, take a trip to the neighbouring Rottnest Island where, if you’re lucky, you can also spot some cute quokkas.

5. Canberra

Cities in Australia: Canberra — Parliament House, Canberra, Australia Capital Territory, Australia

5.1 General Facts

Of course we couldn’t leave Australia’s capital city from our list. Canberra is home to the country’s Parliament and lots of other important social and international organisations. It was built with the purpose to be the capital, and it has been so since 1913. It’s indeed a popular travel destination, both in Australia and internationally.

5.2 What To See

Being the capital, here you will find the most important national museums. The Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Museum of Australia and The National Dinosaur Museum and many more are there waiting for you to explore them! You should also visit the National Library of Australia and the National Botanic Gardens. Obviously you can’t skip a visit at the Australian Parliament House and also the beautiful Lake Burley Griffin and Mount Ainslie.

6. Brisbane

Brisbane, Australia — Story Bridge, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

6.1 General Facts

Moving onto our sixth city, Brisbane is the capital of the Australian State of Queensland. It is the third most populous city in Australia and it’s crossed by the homonymous river. With lots of cultural sites to explore and its beautiful sights, it’s hard to resist to Brisbane!

6.2 What To See

To begin with, the Story Bridge definitely is a symbol of the city. You can cross it and enjoy a great view, and then procede to visit some great museums such as the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Out of the centre you will find the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where you’ll be able to see many different animal species and even take a picture while holding a koala!

7. Hobart

Hobart, Australia — Hobart harbour, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia

7.1 General Facts

And finally, let’s move to the Australian state of Tasmania and discover its capital city, Hobart. Tasmania is a big island to the south of the country. With its unique culture, many different plant and animal species and great restaurants and nightlife, Hobart will offer you an unforgettable experience.

7.2 What To See

Check out the Salamanca Place and Salamanca Market, then the thriving Museum of Old and New Art. We definitely recommend a tour of the Mount Wellington to enjoy amazing views from the Pinnacle. For other stunning views, Tasman Bridge and the harbour are a great choice. Finally, also check the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens and try delicious fresh food at the stalls of Farm Gate Market.