11 Of the Best Places to Visit in Australia

Australia is a fantastic destination for Au Pairs, offering a blend of stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and a laid-back lifestyle. As an Au Pair in Australia, you'll not only get the chance to care for children and experience Australian culture but also explore some of the country's most iconic places. Here are 11 of the best places to visit in Australia:

Sydney

Sydney is one of the most famous cities in Australia, with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and beautiful beaches such as Bondi Beach and Manly Beach. The city offers a mix of culture, nature, and excellent public transport, making it easy to explore. Wondering what you should do and see in Sydney? Read our article here and find out. There are also some great options for day trips from Sydney, like the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, or Port Stephens.

Blue Mountains

A day trip to the Blue Mountains is a must when you are in Sydney. The region consists of 7 separate national parks and is about 10,000 square kilometers in size. You can expect to see more rounded peaks with deep valleys and towering cliffs, often with sparkling waterfalls plummeting over them. The Blue Mountains were even recognised as a UNESCO cultural heritage site due to its unique natural diversity. There are several tours to choose from, but no matter which one you choose, you should definitely check out the Three Sisters - one of the most recognised rock formations in Australia. You can either do the hikes on your own or you can book guided tours. 

Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley is located north of Sydney and is a popular destination for wine tasting. The picturesque, hilly landscape is home to over 150 wineries, some of the best in the world. In addition to wine tastings, the Hunter Valley also offers delicious local products such as cheese, jams, chutneys and olive oil, that you can try and buy. Some wineries offer wine tastings without pre-booking, while others require advance booking. You can either go with friends and book the tastings directly at the wineries or you can book a guided tour. If you don’t have a group of friends you can do those tours with, you can easily book a guided tour and make some new friends there.

Port Stephens

Port Stephens is an easy 2.5 hours drive from Sydney. It’s surrounded by 26 stunning beaches and a majestic bay along the legendary Pacific Coast route. As well as fantastic waves for surfing, visitors can explore the aquatic paradise by diving with grey nurse sharks, swimming with wild dolphins or snorkeling in gentle coves. In the nearby Stockton Sand Dunes and Barrington Tops National Park, there are a lot of different tours offered, making Port Stephens the perfect place for a day trip or even a weekend getaway.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a cultural hub and is known for its artsy vibe, coffee culture, and vibrant street art. It's perfect for Au Pairs who appreciate creativity and want to experience a cosmopolitan lifestyle. You can explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, visit the National Gallery of Victoria, check out the laneways full of street art, and catch a tram ride through the city. You can also go on a day trip to the Great Ocean Road or Phillip Island (for the penguins). A popular spot, especially for pictures, are the Brighton bathing boxes, where you can find 82 different and very colorful bathing boxes.

Brisbane

Brisbane has a warm climate and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect place for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a less hectic pace than Sydney or Melbourne. The city is close to stunning beaches and national parks. Brisbane is also known for the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast vacation paradises to the north and south of the city limits, for its seaside location and generally good weather. Wondering when is the best time to travel to Brisbane? The southern east coast (e.g. Sydney-Brisbane) is best visited in summer (Oct-March). From April to September, the south tends to be cooler and sometimes rainy.

Cairns

Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, making it a prime destination for anyone interested in marine life and coral reefs. It also offers a tropical climate, lush rainforests, and a laid-back lifestyle. You can go snorkeling or diving in the Great Barrier Reef, explore the Daintree Rainforest, or take a scenic drive along the Captain Cook Highway. The nearby Kuranda Village offers a relaxed escape with markets and wildlife parks. Just keep an eye out for crocodiles while you are up there.

The Whitsundays

The Whitsundays are a group of islands located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, offering some of the most stunning beaches in the world. It is a popular stop for anyone traveling the east coast of Australia and it is definitely worth booking a tour of the islands. You can, for example, book a multiple-day sailing tour or a one-day tour. Most tours include a visit to Whitehaven Beach, snorkeling or scuba diving.
 

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a laid-back beach town known for its bohemian lifestyle and thriving arts and yoga scene. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to experience a more relaxed pace of life while being close to nature. Surfing, yoga retreats, exploring the stunning beaches, and hiking to the Cape Byron Lighthouse for panoramic views are must-dos when visiting. During whale watching season, this is also a great spot to see some whales. 

Adelaide

Adelaide is often considered one of Australia’s most livable cities. It’s smaller and quieter than places like Sydney or Melbourne, making it a great choice for those who want to experience a more laid-back lifestyle while still having access to cultural events and festivals. You can visit the Adelaide Central Market, explore the Barossa Valley wine region, or take a day trip to Kangaroo Island to see wildlife and stunning coastal scenery.

Canberra

As the capital city of Australia, Canberra is often overlooked by travelers, but it offers a unique experience with cultural institutions, museums, and access to beautiful lakes and national parks. You can visit the Australian War Memorial, explore Lake Burley Griffin, and enjoy the city’s numerous festivals and cultural events. You can also hike or cycle in the nearby Namadgi National Park.

“The Red Centre”

If you're looking to immerse yourself in Australian Indigenous culture and explore the vast outback, Uluru (Ayers Rock) is a must-see destination. It's an iconic symbol of Australia, surrounded by dramatic desert landscapes. Take a sunset or sunrise tour of Uluru, visit the Olga Mountains, and explore the West MacDonnell Ranges or Kings Canyon. This is an excellent spot for those seeking adventure in the outback. For this adventure, it is definitely a good idea to book a guided tour.

Tasmania

If you love nature, Tasmania offers some of the most pristine wilderness in Australia, with rugged mountains, stunning coastlines, and dense forests. The state is perfect for those seeking adventure and outdoor exploration. Hike through Cradle Mountain, visit the Freycinet National Park, take a boat trip through the Gordon River, or explore the historic Port Arthur penal settlement. 

Perth

Last but not least, we have the capital of Western Australia - a fascinating destination with a unique mix of urban life and breathtaking nature. Perth is known for its beautiful beaches such as Cottesloe Beach and Scarborough Beach, which are perfect places to relax, swim and surf, and with over 300 days of sunshine a year, Perth offers a pleasant climate that is ideal for outdoor activities. The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, reflected in galleries, museums and festivals, and is surrounded by stunning nature, including Kings Park, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, and the Swan River, which offers numerous recreational opportunities. From Perth, you can also easily travel to stunning destinations such as Rottnest Island, the Pinnacles Desert and Margaret River.


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