8 Best Cities in Australia to Visit on Vacation

Sydney is exquisite, a masterpiece of design that hosts refined art galleries, spectacular beaches, a sparkling harbor, and a sophisticated cosmopolitan culture that pairs easily with urban wellness retreats in Australia. Sydney represents the best of Australia’s coastal and urban finesse, providing endless opportunities to experience the grandeur of New South Wales’ capital city through exclusive after-hours Sydney Opera House access, private harbor cruises, and curated art encounters.

What to Expect

Prepare for a sophisticated, sun-drenched sensory experience that blends coastal beauty with urban refinement.

• Feel: The warm, golden sands beneath your feet and the refreshing, cool spray of the harbor air.
• Taste: The crisp, saline flavor of freshly shucked oysters paired with a perfect Australian sparkling wine.
• Hear: The distinctive cry of seagulls over the water and the elegant murmur of conversation at a harbor-view café.
• See: The glistening, curved sails of the Sydney Opera House and the vast azure expanse of the Pacific Ocean.
• Smell: The intoxicating fragrance of sea salt and blooming jasmine from coastal gardens.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Sydney Opera House: Arrange for a private, behind-the-scenes architectural tour or exclusive after-hours Sydney Opera House access before attending a world-class performance.
• Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk: Embark on a sunset stroll along the magnificent two-and-a-half-mile path, soaking in the sweeping ocean views.
• The Rocks: Indulge in an exclusive gourmet food tour through the city's historic, beautifully preserved first settlement.
• Art Gallery of New South Wales: Arrange private curator-led museum tours with a curator-led viewing of Australian and European masterworks.
• Blue Mountains: Enjoy a day trip to the fabled national park, renowned for its miles of pristine, eucalypt-scented trails and behind-the-scenes wildlife encounters on private nature walks.

Discover endless possibilities in New South Wales’ capital city during Sydney tours and vacations, where curated access and seamless logistics elevate every moment.

The multicultural and elegant city of Melbourne demonstrates refinement across its culture, from high-end fashion to its celebrated sporting life. It is the most European of Australia’s cities, combining Victorian grandeur with contemporary artistic expression, and it is an ideal base for private architectural walking tours that explore heritage facades and bold modern lines. Melbourne is a city of cultivated contrasts, where lush gardens and stately Victorian facades harmonize with a dynamic, forward-thinking arts scene and private atelier visits that reveal the city’s style credentials.

What to Expect

An experience steeped in artistic flair, gastronomic pleasure, and old-world elegance, ideal for sophisticated multi-generational travel in Australia, where different age groups can enjoy art, sport, and cuisine at their own pace.

• Feel: The cool stone of historic Victorian boulevards shaded by established trees.
• Taste: The rich, complex flavor of a perfectly crafted flat white from a hidden laneway café.
• Hear: The sharp clang of a tram bell mixing with the liveliness of the central business district.
• See: The bold, sophisticated designs of street art hidden in atmospheric laneways.
• Smell: The fragrant scent of exotic flowers emanating from the beautifully maintained public gardens.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• National Gallery of Victoria: Secure private, curator-led museum tours to view the impressive collections of international and Australian art.
• Royal Botanical Gardens: Enjoy a bespoke picnic amidst the lush, landscaped tranquility, arranged with luxury chauffeur services for smooth transfers.
• Laneway Gastronomy Tour: Embark on a private tour in the city’s famous alleys. Savor a deconstructed scallop ceviche, where the citrus zest snaps against the silky, raw scallops, followed by a delicate, slow-cooked wagyu cheek with a deep, earthy jus.
• Queen Victoria Market: Take chef-led market tours to sample gourmet cheeses and fresh regional produce.
• Victorian Architecture: Enlist a private guide for architectural walking tours of Melbourne, exploring the stately facades of Victorian-era homes.

Embrace many top experiences in Australia by allowing us to curate a sample Best of Australia Tour, combining Melbourne’s cultural depth with reef, wildlife, and other city highlights.

Cairns has ascended as Australia’s premier gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. It has evolved into a sophisticated hub of coastal and jungle exploration, its prestige derived from its central, enviable position amidst world-class natural attractions and a growing emphasis on sustainable city tourism in Australia. This balances visitor access with reef preservation. Cairns has been transformed by local commitment into an elegant, palm-lined destination that offers refined access to the ocean and the rainforest.

What to Expect

An immersion into a warm, tropical climate, with immediate access to natural wonders and behind-the-scenes wildlife encounters that are available in nearby rainforests and sanctuaries.

• Feel: The humid, gentle air of the tropics and the cool, smooth water of the ocean during a swim.
• Taste: The sweet, sharp juice of tropical fruits from the Atherton Tablelands. Tuck into a perfectly ripened black sapote or the succulent, fragrant pulp of a custard apple.
• Hear: The distinctive, exotic calls of rainforest birds mingling with the sound of the ocean.
• See: The vivid, deep colors of the jungle that smother the Great Dividing Range hillsides.
• Smell: The fresh, earthy scent of rain and palm fronds along the elegant esplanade.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Great Barrier Reef: Charter a private yacht for a custom excursion to the outer reefs, focused on snorkeling and diving, with crew who understand luxury expectations.
• Daintree Rainforest and Kuranda: Arrange a luxury day trip to the rainforest village of Kuranda, focusing on the Skyrail experience and secluded river cruises.
• Crystal Cascades: Take a private excursion to the unspoiled waters for a tranquil swimming experience.
• Reef Education: Engage in an exclusive educational session with marine biologists for a deeper understanding of the reef ecosystem.
• Botanic Gardens: Enjoy a quiet, guided stroll through the exceptional collection of tropical plants.

Make Cairns your first stop on our sample Great Barrier Reef tours and vacations.

The secluded capital of Western Australia is celebrated for its endless sunshine and a relaxed, yet cosmopolitan, pace of life. The city effortlessly combines the attractions of a major hub with informal, pristine surroundings that showcase the cosmopolitan coastal lifestyle Perth is known for. It offers a distinguished balance of urban amenity, expansive parkland, and direct access to Western Australia’s untouched natural landscapes, with sustainable city tourism initiatives supporting nature and culture.

What to Expect

A relaxed, refined lifestyle experience defined by space, sunlight, and proximity to nature, making Perth an easy choice for sophisticated multi-generational travel in Australia, where everyone can find their own pace.

• Feel: The warm, dry air of the Western Australian summer and the cool river breeze from the Swan River.
• Taste: The light, crisp flavor of a locally brewed craft beer enjoyed by the waterfront.
• Hear: The gentle lap of water against the riverbanks and the serene rustle of trees in Kings Park.
• See: The sparkling, untouched waters of the pristine river and the elegant cityscape reflected within.
• Smell: The clean, fresh scent of the ocean and native flora carried on the gentle wind.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Kings Park Botanical Garden: Arrange for a bespoke picnic or a quiet guided walk through the vast parkland and botanical collections.
• Cottesloe Beach: Enjoy a refined day of swimming or sunbathing on the famous, pristine sands.
• The Perth Mint: Book an exclusive tour to witness the gold pouring process and view the historic collections.
• Art Gallery of Western Australia: Secure private curator-led museum tours for a private viewing of the significant collection of indigenous Australian art.
• Swan River Sailing: Charter a private yacht or vessel for an afternoon of sailing or dining on the tranquil river.

For a trip that focuses on exploring the country’s wondrous outdoors and natural landscapes, head for Perth, one of our Best Cities in Australia to Visit on Vacation.

Adelaide offers a distinctively graceful perspective on Australian urban life, set apart by its history as a place of free settlement. The city’s design is marked by an elegant, introspective tranquility framed by green parklands and a food scene built around chef-led market tours and nearby wine regions. Its beautiful architecture, framed by the Torrens River and Mount Lofty Ranges, is complemented by a sophisticated food and wine culture, inspired by its Mediterranean settlers.

What to Expect

A quietly sophisticated experience defined by elegant architecture, generous green space, and world-class gastronomy.

• Feel: The smooth, cool marble of grand gallery halls and the soft give of grass in the encircling parklands.
• Taste: The deep, complex notes of a premium shiraz from the nearby Barossa Valley.
• Hear: The gentle flow of the Torrens River and the unhurried rhythm of a city that never feels frantic.
• See: Opulent gardens contrasting with the façades of modern high-rises.
• Smell: The rich, earthy aroma of fresh produce and simmering sauces emanating from the Central Market.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Barossa Valley: Arrange a private wine-tasting tour to one of Australia’s best wine regions, extending your city stay with behind-the-scenes wildlife encounters in Australia at nearby conservation parks if desired.
• Adelaide Botanic Gardens: Enjoy a tranquil walk through the opulent gardens and conserved architecture.
• Art Gallery of South Australia: Take a private curator-led tour of the celebrated collections and elegant galleries.
• Central Market: Embark on chef-led tours in Adelaide Central Market to sample regional specialties and gourmet finds.
• State Library of South Australia: Explore the magnificent architecture and historic reading rooms in a quiet moment of introspection.

For an immersive focus on refined cuisine and wine, embark on our sample 17-Day Immersion into Australia: Outback and Wine Country.

Canberra boasts shady avenues, modernist architecture, and a sense of deliberate design. Its central Lake Burley Griffin shimmers, reflecting the national cultural treasures that line its shores and making the city a natural hub for private curator-led museum tours and gallery visits. The city’s planning, influenced by self-contained communities and surrounding green space, results in a cosmopolitan ambiance decorated with accessible parks and broad boulevards, supported by concierge travel services in Canberra that streamline access to institutions and events.

What to Expect

A sophisticated, planned urban experience focused on culture, history, and grand architecture, ideal for travelers who value context and curation.

• Feel: The clean lines of modernist architecture and the refreshing chill of the lake breeze.
• Taste: Refined, modern Australian cuisine in a cosmopolitan setting. Enjoy a dish of pan-seared barramundi, its skin delicately crisp, served over a smoked native saltbush puree.
• Hear: The quiet hum of a city of culture, often punctuated by the distant chime of carillons.
• See: The shimmering expanse of Lake Burley Griffin and the grand, contrasting geometric shapes of the city’s design.
• Smell: The clean, fresh scent of manicured parks and the scent of history within cultural institutions.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Australian War Memorial: Arrange a private tour focusing on the national history and memorial galleries.
• National Gallery of Australia: Secure an exclusive viewing of the country’s most important national art collection with the support of concierge travel services in Canberra.
• Lake Burley Griffin: Charter a private vessel or take a serene walk along the lakeshores to admire the city’s cultural landscape.
• Museum of Australian Democracy: Take a guided architectural and historical tour of the former Parliament House.
• Mount Ainslie Lookout: Enjoy a panoramic view over the entire planned city and its geometric layout.

Canberra is a worthy addition to our sample Australia tours for seniors, allowing you to escape the crowds and focus on cultural depth with tailored support.

Darwin maintains a youthful, relaxed ambiance amidst a cosmopolitan population, reflected today less in backpacker nightlife and more in its reputation as one of the most important centers for indigenous art in Australia. The city’s appeal lies in its low-rise buildings, relaxed mood, and captivating blend of heritage architecture, modern attractions, and easy access to behind-the-scenes wildlife encounters in Australia across the Top End.

What to Expect

A relaxed, tropical experience defined by its multicultural heritage and its role as the indigenous art capital of Australia, making it ideal for travelers seeking a cultural guide to indigenous art in Darwin.

• Feel: The warm, humid embrace of the tropics and the gentle, cooling sea spray near the wharf.
• Taste: Exotic flavors like tamarind from the multicultural food scene at the Mindil Beach Sunset Market.
• Hear: A medley of languages spoken by the diverse population and the gentle rumble of cyclists and joggers.
• See: The gleaming, modern waterfront contrasting with historic low-rise colonial buildings.
• Smell: The intoxicating fragrance of blooming tropical flowers and savory street food.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Mindil Beach Sunset Market: Indulge in an exclusive culinary safari through the food stalls at sunset, guided by a local expert who can introduce you to Indigenous ingredients.
• Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory: Arrange a private viewing of the collections focusing on indigenous art and natural science.
• Stokes Hill Wharf: Enjoy a refined seafood meal with fantastic views across the water.
• Crocosaurus Cove: Arrange for wildlife encounters with the region's famous saltwater crocodiles in a safe, controlled setting.
• Territory Wildlife Park: Take a guided tour to observe native wildlife in their diverse, expansive habitats before returning to the city’s galleries and studios.

Enjoy a vacation in the Australian city while discovering captivating layers of heritage and easy access to wildlife attractions on Zicasso’s sample Red Centre and Northern Territories Tour by Train.

The charming streets and architecture of Hobart spread from the graceful shores of the Derwent River to the foothills of Mount Wellington. Despite its size, this state capital offers a distinctively remote ambiance, unique among Australia's major cities, and is home to some of the country’s most atmospheric heritage luxury accommodation options. Be seduced by the historic stone warehouses, high-end craft shops, and the city’s relaxed, sailing-inspired tradition, which together make it an ideal base for sustainable city tourism and slow travel.

What to Expect

A tranquil, historic sensory experience defined by colonial stone, fresh seafood, and mountain air, perfect if you want culture and nature in equal measure.

• Feel: The cool, rough texture of historic stone warehouses and the crisp mountain air descending from Mount Wellington.
• Taste: The clean, powerful flavor of fresh seafood enjoyed along the waterfront.
• Hear: The distant clang of masts from the deep-water harbor and the soft lapping of the Derwent River.
• See: The historic, beautifully preserved stone architecture contrasting with the gloss of refurbished, modern neighborhoods.
• Smell: The bracing, invigorating scent of the sea and the sweet aroma of yeast from nearby breweries.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• MONA (Museum of Old and New Art): Travel via private ferry’s VIP “Posh Pit” section for a full-day, provocative cultural immersion at this extraordinary private museum.
• Mount Wellington: Arrange a private guided drive or walk to the summit for a commanding panoramic view over the city and river.
• Salamanca Place: Explore the historic stone warehouses now housing high-end craft shops and galleries, then retire to your luxury heritage luxury accommodation for a fireside drink.
• Battery Point: Enjoy a quiet, historically guided walk through this beautifully preserved 19th-century neighborhood.
• Waterfront Dining: Secure a reservation at a top restaurant for a refined seafood meal overlooking the deep-water harbor.

Discover a truly unique, remote urban landscape in the charming streets and foothills of Hobart on our sample Stunning Beauty of Australia Tour.

Australia’s cities offer a spectrum of art experiences, but certain destinations stand out if you seek private access, curator guidance, and a focus on indigenous and contemporary works. The best city often depends on whether your interests lean toward international blue-chip pieces, cutting-edge contemporary installations, or museum-grade indigenous art that tells a deeper story of place.

• Melbourne Galleries: Anchor time in Melbourne with private museum tours at the National Gallery of Victoria and private atelier visits that focus on fashion and design studios.
• Sydney Icons: Combine exclusive after-hours Sydney Opera House experiences with private viewings at leading galleries.
• Perth Indigenous: Explore the Art Gallery of Western Australia’s indigenous collections and smaller studios.
• Canberra Collections: Leverage concierge travel services in Canberra to access the National Gallery of Australia’s major holdings or bespoke cultural itineraries.
• Darwin Indigenous Focus: Follow a cultural guide to indigenous art in Darwin through the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory and local galleries.

Cairns and Port Douglas offer excellent access to the Great Barrier Reef, but each caters to luxury travelers in a slightly different way, from yacht charters and accommodation style to how easily you can pair reef days with rainforest, wellness, and city experiences. Choosing between them often comes down to whether you prefer a slightly larger, more connected city or an intimate town that feels more secluded.

• Cairns Gateway: Start in Cairns with private yacht charters and access to the outer reef and Daintree Rainforest.
• Port Douglas Retreat: Extend north to Port Douglas within the same itinerary for a more boutique, resort-focused base with quiet beaches and luxury lodges.
• Wildlife Pairing: Combine either base with behind-the-scenes wildlife encounters at nearby sanctuaries and on nighttime rainforest walks.
• Helicopter Connections: Link reef, rainforest, and city via scenic flights that give you aerial perspectives on the Coral Sea.
• Wellness Focus: Opt for urban wellness retreats that offer spa treatments and healthy menus after long days on or in the water.

Darwin is one of the most compelling gateways to indigenous art in Australia, with galleries, museums, and community spaces that highlight the diversity of First Nations cultures from across the Northern Territory. A thoughtfully planned visit can connect you with curators, artists, and guides who help decode symbolism, mediums, and stories, turning each piece into an encounter with country and culture.

• Museum Anchor: Begin with a private curator-led museum tour at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
• Gallery Circuit: Follow a cultural guide to indigenous art in Darwin through key galleries, art centers, and studios that showcase works from Arnhem Land, Tiwi Islands, and beyond.
• Market Encounters: Time your visit with markets and events where indigenous artists sell work directly, offering you the chance to discuss stories and techniques.
• Top End Context: Pair art experiences with behind-the-scenes wildlife encounters and visits to significant landscapes to understand the connection between art and country.
• Jewelry and Craft: Include bespoke jewelry workshops in Broome and Darwin in a broader itinerary, commissioning pieces inspired by Top End light, sea, and culture.

Australia does not use the Michelin Guide as a benchmark, but its major cities boast restaurants that are widely considered on par with Michelin-starred establishments in Europe and the United States. Dining at this level is about more than tasting menus; it is about storytelling, indigenous ingredients, and experiences that tie into each city’s personality and surrounding landscapes.

• Sydney Icons: Build a restaurant-focused stay, pairing fine dining with exclusive after-hours Sydney Opera House events and harbor views.
• Melbourne Food Capital: Enjoy chef’s table experiences and private tastings across Melbourne’s most acclaimed kitchens.
• Adelaide Markets: Translate chef-led market tours into high-end dining experiences in restaurants that champion local produce and nearby wine regions.
• Hobart and MONA: Combine heritage luxury accommodation in Hobart with cutting-edge dining that leans into Tasmanian seafood and cool-climate produce.
• Sustainable Focus: Choose restaurants that align with sustainable city tourism, where chefs showcase native ingredients and low-waste practices as part of the story of your meal.

Whether embracing the classic beach scenery or wandering along the thriving riverbanks, noticing active wildlife at the city’s edges or indulging in artistic marvels, Australia’s top cities can easily seduce you as you explore the neighborhoods and vibrant cosmopolitan cultures for new travel experiences. From private, curator-led museum tours to architectural walking tours, helicopter transfers to the Yarra Valley from Melbourne to bespoke jewelry workshops in Broome and Darwin, each city can be tailored to your interests.

Allow our destination specialists to translate your vision into a perfectly tailored itinerary. For more information and inspiration, take a look at our Australia travel guide or Australia tours and vacations. Then, let a dedicated travel expert coordinate the logistics so you can simply arrive and enjoy.