From dazzling cities and endless sandy beaches to mystical deserts and breathtaking natural wonders, Australia is so vast and full of contrasts that it is a world unto itself. Every place on this vast continent tells its own story and invites you to discover
fascinating wildlife, vibrant cultures and spectacular landscapes.
And to make the long journey around the world worthwhile and allow you to experience the diversity of this unique continent, we have put together a route that takes you from sun-drenched beaches in the east to the heart of the outback. The route can be traveled in 3-4 weeks or enjoyed in stages, whichever suits you best. The way you travel is also entirely up to you, as Australia can be explored
comfortably by plane, bus or rental car - without any stress. So,
pack your bags and let the adventure begin!
6 highlights on the road
Sydney - The Place To Be
We start in one of the most exciting cities in the world: Sydney. After a flight of around 20 hours from Germany, Sydney welcomes you with a spectacular skyline, iconic sights and a relaxed atmosphere. The city offers a great mix of culture and nature: the world-famous Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach are just some of the highlights you shouldn't miss. For a break in nature, we recommend a trip to the nearby Blue Mountains - a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
Must see Sydney:
- Sydney Opera House
- Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Bondi Beach
- Taronga Zoo
- Blue Mountains
- Darling Harbour
Brisbane & Byron Bay
Just a short flight from Sydney is Brisbane, the capital of the state of Queensland. Brisbane is a vibrant city known for its laid-back atmosphere and proximity to spectacular natural wonders. Here you can enjoy the sunny weather in the many parks or by the river. But excursions into the surrounding area are also worthwhile!
Byron Bay, around two hours south of Brisbane, is an absolute highlight. The small coastal town with its relaxed surf vibes and beautiful beaches simply invites you to relax. Not far away you will also find the impressive Glasshouse Mountains National Park, with its picturesque hiking trails and spectacular views.
And that's not all, there is much more to discover around Brisbane:
- Fraser Island: The largest sand island in the world with crystal-clear lakes and impressive rainforests.
- Moreton Island: Famous for its dunes and wreck diving.
- Noosa: A popular coastal town with stunning beaches and national parks.
- Rainbow Beach: A colorful natural wonder known for its colorful sand dunes.
Underwater paradise Great Barrier Reef
From Brisbane, continue north to Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. The largest coral reef in the world is a true natural wonder with a fascinating underwater world. Snorkelling or diving gives you the chance to experience colourful corals, tropical fish and maybe even turtles up close.If you prefer to be in the air rather than in the water, you can also take a helicopter flight over the reef to experience it from a different perspective. Either way, the beauty of this natural wonder is guaranteed to stay with you for a long time!
In the heart of the outback
From the tropical coast, we head deeper into the heart of Australia: the outback. Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is one of Australia's most famous landmarks and a spiritual place for the Aborigines. This huge monolith towers majestically in the endless desert landscape and captivates visitors from all over the world.The best experiences at Uluru are at sunrise or sunset, when the rock turns spectacular shades of red. You can walk around Uluru and learn more about the spiritual significance of the place for the Aborigines, the indigenous people of Australia. And maybe you can even feel the special atmosphere for yourself.
Great Ocean Road
After your adventure in the outback, the journey takes you to the spectacular coastal road of the Great Ocean Road in southern Australia. This legendary route stretches over 240 kilometers along Victoria's rugged coastline and offers you breathtaking views of the rough seas, rugged cliffs and picturesque beaches. The main attraction of the route are the "Twelve Apostles" - impressive rock formations that rise out of the sea. But numerous waterfalls, rainforests and small coastal towns also make this route an unforgettable experience. Plan at least two to three days for this trip to enjoy everything at your leisure.
Old culture & fresh coffee in Melbourne
The trendy metropolis of Melbourne awaits you at the end of the Great Ocean Road.
The city is known for its creative scene, first-class coffee and multicultural atmosphere. Whether you stroll through the colorful laneways of the city center, visit one of the many art exhibitions or settle down in one of the cute cafés - Melbourne will inspire you with its charm.
A ride on the historic streetcar through the city is particularly recommended! Melbourne is also the perfect starting point for excursions to the nearby wine-growing regions in the Yarra Valley or to the famous penguin parade on Phillip Island.
Wild tranquillity in Tasmania
As the crowning glory of your trip to Australia, you should venture to Tasmania. The island off the south-east coast of the mainland offers untouched nature, impressive national parks and wildlife that you won't find anywhere else in the world. Unwind in the paradisiacal Freycinet National Park with its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, get one last adrenaline rush and climb Cradle Mountain or take a boat tour along the wild west coast. But don't forget to treat yourself to some culinary delights. Tasmania is also known for delicious regional products such as cheese, seafood and wine - there's something for every palate here.
What should you pack?
Australia is large and there are different climate zones and landscapes. While it is subtropically warm on the coasts, it can get chilly in the outback. So pack light summer clothing and a warm jacket for the desert evenings. And of course don't forget sunscreen and headgear! A lightweight, robust check-in suitcase and a practical daypack are ideal companions for stowing everything safely and easily.
Have fun on your Australian adventure!
