Your Ultimate Three-Week Australia Itinerary: Discover Top Spots with David, Australia Product Manager

If you're planning a trip to Australia, it's always a good idea to get advice from those that have been there, done that, got the passport stamp, to help you make the most out of your visit.

Our Senior Product Manager, David, sources all the amazing travel experiences for our luxury Australia portfolio. He's been exploring Oz for over thirty years and has seen first-hand how travel to this extraordinary part of the world has evolved. With in-depth knowledge of its various regions, here, he shares his top spots for visitors, as well as some of the best three-week itineraries in 'the land down under'.

From must-do activities to the best ways to get around — find out how you can enjoy everything this diverse country has to offer on a bespoke tour, following some of Australia's top travel routes.

• The Best Three-Week Australia Itinerary for Iconic Sights & Experiences
• The Best Three-Week Australia Itinerary for Cities, Scenery & Wildlife
• The Best Three-Week Australia Itinerary for Families

Meet Our Australia Product Manager, David

Tell us a bit about yourself; how many times have you visited Australia, and which areas have you been to?

I first visited Australia back in 1988, when I was just 18 years old. My most recent journey was in May 2024 and was the 16th time I've visited 'the land down under'. I've now travelled to every state and territory, except the Australian Capital Territory.

In Victoria, I’ve travelled along the coast from one end to the other, as well as inland to various farming towns, the Murray River, and of course, the cosmopolitan city of Melbourne – my favourite city in the country!

In South Australia, I've been to the Winelands, Kangaroo Island — a must for all visitors to Australia — and the outback region of Flinders Ranges.

In Western Australia, I've travelled to the outback gold mining town of Kalgoorlie and the Winelands in Margaret River. I've also explored the coast from Perth to Broome, as well as journeyed through the Kimberley Region to the Northern Territory. Within Northern Australia, I've been to Kakadu, Katherine Gorge, Darwin, Alice Springs and Uluru.

Next stop, New South Wales. I've covered the entire coastline from north to south, toured the Southern Highlands visiting historic towns, such as Bowral and Berrima, and immersed myself in the stunning natural beauty of the Blue Mountains.

And finally, in Queensland, I've travelled from the Gold Coast to as far as the Cape Tribulation, stopping off at places such as Brisbane, Noosa, K'Garu (Fraser Island), Heron Island, the Whitsunday Islands, Magnetic Island, Orpheus Island, Bedarra Island, Cairns, Port Douglas and Lizard Island.

Can you tell us where you went on your most recent visit and share some of the highlights from your trip?

I spent two weeks in Far North Queensland, a few days in Sydney and Melbourne, and four days in Tasmania. There were so many highlights, and that’s what I love about Australia – there is so much to explore! It’s impossible to see it all, which is why Australia should never be a ‘once in a lifetime’ destination.

One highlight was my stay at Mt Mulligan Lodge, which is a 35-minute helicopter flight from Cairns to the Outback, and is one of the 'Luxury Lodges of Australia'. It’s a working cattle ranch and the former site of a coal mine, where Australia’s worst coal mining disaster happened in 1921.

The accommodation was sensational — especially the Outback Rooms with their huge tin bathtubs on private decks. I found myself soaking for hours in the tub with bubble bath, a bottle of champagne and just listening to birds singing. The bird song was something that struck me immediately on arriving – it surrounds you wherever you walk.

The location is stunning, set against a backdrop of Mount Mulligan, which is ten times larger than Uluru (Ayers Rock)! The lodge offers the perfect blend of luxurious accommodation, spectacular food and adventure. You can enjoy ATV tours, sunrise hikes, go kayaking on the weir, and embark on fascinating history tours of the former township of Mount Mulligan, the coal mine and the cemetery.

Another highlight for me was the flight from Hobart to Freycinet National Park. Along the way, we landed on a grass airstrip at Maria Island National Park — an uninhabited island, which is a haven for native wildlife and for adventure lovers who enjoy hiking and mountain-biking. There’s also a former convict settlement that you can explore.

It’s easy to spot wombats during the day in Maria Island National Park, as there are no natural predators on the island, so they feel safe to wander about in the daylight. It’s teeming with extraordinary wildlife; we landed while watching kangaroos hopping along beside us! We then had a sumptuous seafood picnic platter on the beach, before continuing our flight over to Freycinet National Park and the beautiful Wineglass Bay.

In Freycinet, while staying at Saffire Freycinet lodge, I had the unique opportunity to visit an oyster farm and learn all about how these delicacies are farmed, grown and harvested. While in the water, our guide set up a table with a white linen tablecloth, then picked oysters fresh out of the water, shucked them and served them to us with wasabi, lemon and chilled champagne. It was pure foodie bliss!

I’d also highly recommend a visit to Silky Oaks Lodge in the Daintree Rainforest. It’s a beautiful eco-lodge set in the rainforest on the banks of the Mossman River. I enjoyed meals in the open-air restaurant up in the canopy of the forest, on-site hikes to places like Fig Tree Rapids, morning yoga classes in the open-air pavilion, and a visit to Mossman Gorge.

I’ll never forget the stunning tropical scenery here, which comprised miles of sugar cane plantations, lush forest-covered mountains and expansive beaches (do not swim unless in a protected netted area).

Tailoring Your Australia Adventure to You

What are some of the most adventurous activities travellers can enjoy in Australia?

For adventure lovers, Australia is a top destination. If you’re looking for heart-thumping action, white-water rafting is popular in North Queensland — especially on the Tully River.

Scuba diving anywhere along the Great Barrier Reef is also an unforgettable experience, where you can encounter all manner of exotic marine life across the world’s largest coral reef system. Travellers can even sleep underwater on the Great Barrier Reef in a glass-walled Reef Suite.

If you’re visiting Sydney at any point in your journey, then climbing Sydney Harbour Bridge is a fantastic way to take in the dazzling cityscape.

There are also endless helicopter adventures to be had in Australia; award-wining operator, HeliSpirit, offer many intrepid heli-hiking tours in their luxury aircrafts.

Finally, going on safari in Australia is a must for travellers with an adventurous spirit. Explore Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region or enjoy an overnight luxury swag hiking tour of the outback in the Flinders Ranges on the famous Arkaba Walk.

What are some of the most amazing wildlife encounters travellers can enjoy in different parts of Australia?

While wildlife may not be the main reason for most to embark on a journey to Australia, it soon becomes a big part of any Australian holiday.

With so many species endemic to this vast country, there are hundreds of opportunities to spot wildlife in its natural habitat, and your Australian holiday soon becomes an Australian safari. Spot endemic species such as Emu, kangaroos and koala, the rare Australian fur seal, cute quokkas and the flightless cassowary. While up north, you may spot saltwater crocodiles, hear the song of the kookaburra or swim alongside turtles. Wildlife is in abundance throughout Australia.

Kangaroo Island — which is located just off the coast of mainland South Australia — is a haven for wildlife. You can watch rare Australian sea lions at Seal Bay, as well as koalas and echidnas in the centre of the island.

Travel through South Australia's Flinders Rangers or Eyre Peninsula to find kangaroos, as well as a plethora of birdlife, including the endemic emus.

Visit Rottnest Island — which sits just off the shore from the city of Perth — to get up close to the resident quokkas.

Or if marine life is more your thing, then a trip to Ningaloo Reef is a must. Here, you can swim with whale sharks and humpback whales! And if you want to see the manta rays, plan your visit between April and November when these gentle giants migrate to the reef to feed on plankton and krill.

Another fantastic coastline for spotting native creature is that along Far North Queensland — particularly around Mission Beach — where you're in with a good chance of seeing the wild and flightless cassowaries.

Other out-of-this-world wildlife havens include Heron Island: a coral cay where you can witness turtles nesting and baby turtles hatching at certain points of the year. Also, Maria Island, located off the east coast of Tasmania, where you can walk amongst the wild kangaroos and wombats in their natural habitat.

How would you mark a milestone occasion, like a honeymoon or a big birthday?

There are so many ways to celebrate your milestones in Australia.

If you're looking for somewhere to enjoy a special dinner, then Longitude 131° has got you covered. This luxury wilderness camp set in the heart of Australia's Red Centre offers a signature dining experience called Table 131°, where diners can indulge in an exquisite four-course meal with paired wines under a canopy of stars in the pitch-black outback.

If your itinerary includes Sydney, then you can charter a private yacht on Sydney Harbour and follow your cruise up with lunch or dinner at an exclusive waterfront restaurant.

The Ghan rail journey is also a fabulous option for celebrating travellers. This iconic train travels between Darwin, Adelaide and Alice Springs, taking you through the ever-changing scenery of the outback in elegant private cabins. Along the way, you can indulge in regionally-inspired fine dining, sip premium wines and enjoy memorable off-train experiences, such as scenic helicopter rides.

If you're planning your honeymoon or a special anniversary in Australia, then there are several places you can stay to dial up the romance. Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island is perfect for nature-loving couples, offering an intimate stay in luxurious modern suites and bucket list wildlife encounters.

Then there's Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, where you can truly get away from it all together. This beachfront luxury safari camp immerses you in the pristine beauty of Western Australia's unspoilt coastline, where you can swim with whale sharks by day and relax around the roaring campfire by night.

Reserve the Honeymoon Tent at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef for extra seclusion and other romantic touches. It's located a little bit away from the main camp and offers private beach access, a spacious double hammock on your deck and a four-poster bed.

Alternatively, if you want to celebrate life's biggest moments with all your friends and family, some luxury lodges can be booked out exclusively. Enjoy the group getaway of a lifetime at El Questro Homestead; located high up in the Kimberley region, this luxury lodge offers all-inclusive accommodation for up to 20 privileged guests at a time.

The Best 3-Week Australia Itinerary for Iconic Sights & Experiences

Grand Tour of Australia

Embark on a Grand Tour of Australia, travelling to all eight states and territories over the course of 21 days. Along the way, tick off the most iconic sights and experiences Australia has to offer.

Day 1-3: Perth

Spend your first few days exploring the sunny city of Perth. Stroll along Elizabeth Quay — the city's regenerated waterfront — visit the expansive inner-city green space of King Park and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of a winery in the Swan Valley region.

Day 4: Fremantle

Uncover Australia's rich convict and colonial history on a walking tour of Fremantle, which includes a visit to the World Heritage-listed site of Fremantle Prison. Plus, take in other notable landmarks, such as Fishing Boat Harbour, and admire contemporary art at Moore & Moore Gallery.

Day 5-6: Cairns

Fly across to Cairns in North Queensland — a laid-back city with beautiful botanical gardens. From here, take the nearby cableway up through one of the world's oldest tropical rainforests and sail out over the Great Barrier Reef in a glass-bottom boat to snorkel the world's largest coral reef system.

Day 7: Daintree National Park

Today, embark on a small group tour of Daintree Rainforest, exploring its maze of waterfalls and mountains, before taking a dip in a forest-encased swimming hole. Visit the awe-inspiring Mossman Gorge for a traditional 'smoking' ceremony performed by Aboriginal people.

Day 8-9: Uluru

Fly to Australia's Red Centre. Enjoy a guided tour Uluru, visiting sacred sites and admiring Aboriginal rock art. Plus, see the 36 domes of Kata Tjuta on a drive to Walpa Gorge. In the evening, admire the Field of Lights: an art installation comprising 50,000 illuminated glass spheres.

Day 10-12: Sydney

In Sydney, go behind the scenes in the city's iconic opera house, learning about the construction of this modern masterpiece. Head to Bondi Beach to meet your surf coach, who will teach you how to catch a wave, and spend an afternoon wandering through the famous botanical garden of Cadi Jam Ora.

Day 13: Canberra

Immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture in Canberra. Browse the largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artworks in the world at the National Gallery of Australia. Also, visit the Museum of Australian Democracy at the Old Parliament House, which harbours more heritage exhibitions.

Day 14-15: Melbourne

Discover the dazzling city of Melbourne. Step out for a leisurely walk along the Yarra River and climb to the balcony of the Shrine of Remembrance for panoramic views of the city skyline. Head to Federation Square for a small group walking tour through the arcades and regenerated laneways.

Day 16: Yarra Valley

Drive one hour from Melbourne to Victoria's premier wine-growing region of Yarra Valley. Here, embark on a small group tour, visiting five of the best winemakers in the area to sample their finest tipples. Enjoy a one-course lunch complete with a glass of wine, cheese and coffee.

Day 17: Hobart

Fly to Australia's island state of Tasmania, where you'll embark on a hilarious pub tour of Hobart, uncovering the city's 200-year-old, alcohol-soaked history. Plus, spend some time meandering through Hobart's historic streets, lined with sandstone warehouses and galleries.

Day 18: Port Arthur

Still in Tasmania, embark on a three-hour Wilderness Cruise, sailing beneath the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. Encounter a host of wildlife on this adventure, including seals, dolphins and whales. After the cruise, spend a couple of hours exploring the historic site of Port Arthur.

Day 19: Adelaide

Travel to the epicentre of South Australia's foodie culture with a stop off in Adelaide. Sample delicious dishes around Adelaide Central Market, then head to the city's cultural boulevard, North Terrace. Feeling brave? Attempt the Commonwealth Bank Roof Climb for spectacular views of the Adelaide Hills.

Day 20: Kangaroo Island

Spend time on Kangaroo Island; walk amongst a colony of Australian sea lions during a visit to Seal Bay, sit down to lunch in a breathtaking bush setting, and see the Remarkable Rocks in Flinders Chase National Park. Plus, see koalas, kangaroos and wallabies in their natural habitat.

Day 21: Adelaide

Enjoy the final day of your trip in Adelaide. If you have some time before catching your flight home, take a tour of the famous wine-growing region of Barossa Valley, or hop on a tram down to Glenelg Beach to watch dolphins frolicking in the surf and enjoy fresh seafood on the promenade.

Best Things to Do

• Visit iconic sights, including Sydney Opera House
• Cruise the Great Barrier Reef
• Watch the sun rise and set over Uluru
• Go wine-tasting in Victoria's Yalla Valley
• See rare Australian sea lions on Kangaroo Island

Where You'll Stay

• Pan Pacific Perth
• Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort
• Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel
• Harbour Rocks Hotel Sydney - MGallery by Sofitel
• Avenue Hotel Canberra
• Park Hyatt Melbourne
• Henry Jones Art Hotel
• Majestic Roof Garden Hotel

The Best 3-Week Australia Itinerary for Cities & Nature

Explore Australia's East Coast Cities, Outback, Rainforest and Reefs

Discover the many natural and architectural wonders of eastern Australia on this bespoke tour, from its cosmopolitan cities to its remote outback and lush rainforests. Stay in luxury urban hotels and rural lodges on this 21-day journey.

Day 1-4: Sydney

Arrive in the dazzling city of Sydney for a three-night stay. Enjoy a lunch cruise around the harbour, walk along the coastline between Coogee and Bondi Beach, enjoy a full-day tour of The Hunter Valley wine-growing region, and attend an electrifying evening performance at the city's iconic Opera House.

Day 5-6: Blue Mountains

Head up to the Blue Mountains National Park to explore this World Heritage-listed landscape. Embark on a five-hour 4DW tour to witness its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls and eucalyptus forests — and maybe spot a kangaroo or two! In the evenings, retreat to your boutique hotel with views of Jamison Valley.

Day 7-9: Byron Bay

Take a short flight to Ballina in New South Wales and transfer to Byron Bay. Here, set off on a full-day tour of Nightcap National Park, including a two-hour guided rainforest walk to Minyon Falls. Plus, take an early taxi to Byron Lighthouse to see a spectacular sunrise, followed by a beach day at Byron Bay.

Day 10-11: Brisbane

Travel north along Queensland's Gold Coast to Brisbane — a tropical, laidback city with a showstopping beachfront, lush botanic gardens, museums and art galleries. Explore the boutiques of Fortitude Valley, hop on a leisurely river cruise, or take a private tour to see the volcanic mountains of the Scenic Rim.

Day 12-14: Orpheus Island

Next, board the two-hour flight to Townsville to catch your helicopter transfer over to Orpheus Island. Enjoy the ultimate paradise island escape here with exclusive dining experiences, spa treatments and luxury hospitality. Go snorkelling or kayaking in the coral-studded sea to spot all manner of marine life.

Day 15-16: Mount Mulligan

Ready for your outback adventure? Fly to Cairns and drive through breathtaking landscapes to your 28,000-hectare luxury outback lodge. Visit the famous Hodgkinson goldfield on the Tyrconnell Gold Mine Tour and traverse the region's rolling hills by ATV to immerse yourself in awe-inspiring scenery.

Day 18-20: Daintree Rainforest

Go deep into the heart of Daintree Rainforest by 4WD, passing the palm-fringed shores of Palm Cove. Then, explore the world's oldest living rainforest from your base at Silky Oaks Lodge; take one of the self-guided Fig Tree Rapids walking trails or visit the croc-infested waters of Cape Tribulation Beach.

Day 21: Cairns

Enjoy your final morning at Silky Oaks Lodge with a tropical breakfast and maybe even a sunrise yoga session, before checking out and transferring to Cairns for your return flight back to the UK.

Best Things to Do

• Explore two of Australia's most popular cities: Sydney and Brisbane
• Enjoy a private tour of the Blue Mountains in a 4WD
• Go snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef
• Sip world-class wines in The Hunter Valley
• Stay on a working cattle farm in the outback of Queensland

Where You'll Stay

• Capella Sydney
• Echoes Boutique Hotel
• Crystalbrook Byron
• Hotel X Brisbane
• Orpheus Island Lodge
• Mt Mulligan Lodge
• Silky Oaks Lodge, Daintree Rainforest

Family Adventure Down Under

This tailor-made, 18-day itinerary is perfect for families looking to experience 'the land down under' together. It's filled with unforgettable adventures and features family-friendly accommodation throughout.

Day 1-3: Cairns

Start your journey in Cairns, where you'll discover the world's oldest rainforest, Daintree, and the world's largest coral system, the Great Barrier Reef. Embark on a full-day cruise over the reef, board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for an ariel tour of the forest, and try white-water rafting on the Tully River.

Day 4-6: Airlie Beach

Have the ultimate family beach escape at Airlie Beach, where you'll stay in a spacious luxury villa with your own private pool. Head out for the day on an exhilarating crocodile safari along the Proserpine River. Plus, enjoy a catamaran cruise or an exhilarating RedCat ride to the famous Whitehaven Beach.

Day 7: Hervey Bay, Queensland

Today, pick up a rental car to explore the beautiful coastline of Queensland. Discover Cape Hillsborough Nation Park, where you can encounter Eastern grey kangaroos and wallabies on the beaches. Then, board the Spirit of Queensland train for a magical overnight rail journey to Maryborough.

Day 8-9: Fraser Island

This morning, make the short ferry ride over to the world's largest natural sand island. Uncover its many natural wonders on a 4DW bus tour and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Eli Creek. And if you're visiting between July and October, why not head out on a whale watching cruise to spot humpbacks?

Day 10-12: Gold Coast

Spend the next three days road tripping down Queensland's Gold Coast, an area renowned for its pristine beaches. Travel at your own pace and make several stops along the way; encounter extraordinary wildlife in Gondwana Rainforests or spend your days riding rollercoasters at Warner Bros Movie World.

Day 13-14: Byron Bay

Leave the Gold Coast and drive south to the chilled-out beach resort of Byron Bay — a favourite hang-out of celebrities like Chris Hemsworth. Here, take private surfing lessons with a dedicated surf coach or set off on a kayaking expedition around Cape Byron to encounter bottlenose dolphins.

Day 15-18: Sydney

Round-off the family adventure of lifetime in the vibrant city of Sydney. Climb to the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge for 360-degree views of the city, enjoy a thrilling day at the historic Luna Park funfair, jump in a taxi to Bondi Beach or discover amazing Asian treats in the food markets of China Town.

Best Things to Do

• Cruise and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef
• Spot crocodiles on safari around Arlie Beach
• Learn to surf at the iconic Bondi Beach
• Go kayaking amongst dolphins in Byron Bay
• Climb the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge

Where You'll Stay

• Bailey, a Crystalbrook Collection Hotel
• Yangaro
• Spirit of Queensland (overnight railway)
• Kingfisher Bay Resort
• Crystalbrook Byron
• Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour

Top Tips for Planning Your Trip to Australia

What's the best way to travel around Australia?

Incorporating a road trip is a great way to explore more of Australia, following routes such as The Great Ocean Road or travelling between Sydney and Brisbane. It's definitely one of the best ways to explore Tasmania, as the distances aren’t as vast.

The southwestern part of Western Australia can be easily explored in 10 days on a self-drive adventure. Or if you want to understand the vastness of this extraordinary country, why not drive Western Australia’s coast from Perth to Broome (1460 miles)? You'll get a real sense of its remoteness, stunning barren landscapes, beautiful coastlines — and there are some interesting places to stop off along the way!

The Ghan and Indian Pacific are the most iconic rail journeys you can enjoy in Australia, allowing you to the travel through the outback in unparalleled comfort and style. You can also board the Tilt Train and the Spirit of Queensland to see different points along Queensland's coast, visiting places such as Fraser Island, Heron Island, Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays.

Then, of course, there's the option to cruise around Australia, which is particularly good for exploring the remote Kimberley Region in Western Australia, as you can access areas that can only be reached by water. If the Great Barrier Reef is a main draw for your visit, then you can also charter a luxurious private yacht in this region to explore it in style.

Walking safaris are also a seriously underrated way to get around in Australia, immersing you in awe-inspiring scenery and ensuring you don't miss any incredible wildlife sightings. Follow some of the most famous routes in Australia, including the Arkaba Walk, The Murray Walk, the Twelve Apostles Signature Walk and the Cradle Moutain Signature Walk. These are multi-day itineraries, so are best done as guided tours with accommodation provided along the way.

There are also plenty of day walks, such the Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit at Freycinet National Park, Dove Lake Circuit Walk in Cradle Mountain, the Mt Gower Hike on Lord Howe Island, the Valley of the Winds at Kata Tjuta, the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, and the Loop and Nature's Window Walk in Kalbarri National Park. The options for walking safaris in Australia are endless!

How long should I go for?

I would say three weeks is the ideal length of time for visiting Australia. You can really fit a good amount of exploration into holiday of this duration, and it makes the journey worth it — I wouldn't go for less.

When is the best time to visit?

It depends where in Australia you go. Anything below the Tropic of Capricorn, you would go during our winter, and anything above it, you would go during our summer.

So, if you're going to Far North Queensland, Exmouth, Broome or the Kimberleys, then you really need to go between April and September.

Do I need a visa?

Yes, you need an ETA to travel to Australia, which you can get online or on the Australian ETA App.

It's always good practice to check the Australian government’s website for the latest visa requirements and policies.

A Final Thought from David

Every time I go back to Australia, I leave wanting to see more. It's the most incredibly diverse country in the world and you can never see enough of it on that 'once in a lifetime' trip. There's always something to go back for, more places to explore and more adventures to discover.

Are you ready to start planning your Australian adventure?

Whether you want to discover the natural wonders of the outback, stroll along stunning beaches on the wild west coast or see iconic landmarks in cosmopolitan cities — Inspiring Travel will create the perfect 3-week itinerary just for you.

Start planning your epic adventure to 'the land down under' by browsing our tailor-made tours to Australia, which are expertly crafted by David himself, or speak to one of our dedicated Travel Specialists to find out more.