10 Things To Do When Visiting Australia For The First Time
Australia is a unique place, filled with wonderful things to see and do: glistening beaches, dry deserts, lush rainforests and culture-rich cities. Here are just ten things to do when you’re visiting Australia for the first time.
1. Uluru/Ayers Rock
Uluru, otherwise known as Ayers Rock, is a sight worth seeing when visiting Australia, because not only is it an iconic symbol of Australia, but it is a deeply spiritual place for the Indigenous Australians. Visitors can take a guided walk around the base of Uluru, listening to the Dreamtime stories, or even ride a camel and see the sun rise or set over this beautiful monolith.
2. Great Barrier Reef
Another iconic natural site is the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef. The reef is home to an abundance of marine animals is comprised of idyllic tropical islands. Here, visitors can snorkel or scuba dive in crystal-blue waters, go on a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view of the reef or visit some of the islands and the coastal cities near the reef. You might even spot a whale!
3. Daintree Rainforest
Considered to be the oldest rainforest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest is another place to see when visiting Australia. The rainforest is home to unusual animals that you wouldn’t see anywhere else, including the endangered southern cassowary, and plants that date back to the early stages of the earth’s history. Visitors can take guided tours through the rainforest, as well as explore the sandy beaches and reefs that are connected to the rainforest.
4. Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Located in Tasmania, this national park boasts a wild landscape of rugged mountains, alpine heathlands and glacial lakes. Here, visitors can take numerous hikes through the national park, as well as guided walks with the park rangers. You might even get a chance to see some of the famous Australian animals, including wombats, echidnas or even a Tassie devil!
5. Margaret River
Named after the river in which it is located, this town in Western Australia is a great tourist spot. Though Margaret River is a renowned surfing location, the town is more widely known for its wine region. Here, visitors can go to the wineries and taste some of the amazing local wine that is produced, including Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon blanc.
6. Barossa Valley
Another hotspot for spectacular wine is the Barossa Valley in South Australia. Primarily known for its red wine, particularly Shiraz, this wine region is one of the oldest wine regions in Australia. Tourists can visit some of Australia’s most notable wineries, including Wolf Blass and Penfolds, and sample some of their delicious wine.
7. Sydney Harbour Bridge
When visiting Australia, you can’t miss out on seeing the Sydney Harbour Bridge. An icon of Sydney and Australia, the Harbour Bridge – nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ for its arched shape – is a major entrance into the city of Sydney itself. Tourists can climb the southern half of the bridge, where a beautiful view of the harbour awaits them.
8. Eureka Skydeck 88
If you want an amazing view of Melbourne, then Eureka Skydeck 88 is for you. Located on the 88th flower of Eureka Tower, this observation deck gives you a perfect view of some of Melbourne’s famous landmarks. If you want a more extreme view of Melbourne, then you can go on The Edge – a glass cube that projects 3 metres out of the building with you inside it. The cube is opaque at first, but once it has been fully extended, the glass becomes clear, giving you a bird’s eye view of Melbourne.
9. Great Ocean Road
One of the most scenic drives in Australia, the Great Ocean Road stretches between the Victorian cities of Torquay and Allansford. While you’re driving along this massive stretch of road, you can stop at the many coastal towns in Victoria, including Lorne and Apollo Bay. Make sure you also take a stop and see the amazing and famous Twelve Apostles.
10. Street Art In Melbourne
When you’re visiting Australia, make sure you take a look at the street art hidden away on the streets of Melbourne. Some of the best street art in Melbourne is on Hosier Lane, Centre Place, AC/DCÂ Lane and Caledonian Lane.
