On a vacation to Australia, you’ll find breathtaking landscapes, culture-filled cities, elevated food and wine experiences, and plenty of outdoor adventures with some of the most diverse and interesting wildlife in the world. Australian landmarks are abundant, both in nature and within the country’s lively cities.
From the renowned Great Barrier Reef to the iconic Sydney Opera House, there are endless points of interest to see and experience firsthand. Here are some of the most famous landmarks in Australia to visit during your next trip.
Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney
Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney
The Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of the most famous landmarks in Australia, is the tallest and widest steel arch bridge in the entire world. The bridge stretches 440 feet from top to bottom and connects Dawes Point to Milsons Point on the edge of Sydney. This heritage-listed landmark is also referred to as “The Coathanger” due to its signature arch.
Check off your bucket list with a challenging climb of over 1,000 steps to admire one of the most incredible panoramas of the city of Sydney, the Opera House, and the harbor. A variety of climbs cater to varying levels of fitness and endurance.
If you’re not up for the climb, there are plenty of other viewpoints to enjoy taking photos of the Sydney Harbour Bridge itself. Observatory Hill, Blues Point Reserve, Luna Park, and the Opera Bar all boast postcard-perfect views of different Sydney landmarks.
Stockton Sand Dunes, Newcastle
Stockton Sand Dunes, Newcastle
Located just 40 minutes outside the eastern city of Newcastle, you’ll find the Stockton Sand Dunes. Marvel at the biggest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere with a visit to this nearly 20-mile dune landscape, lying within the Aboriginal Worimi Conservation Lands.
Some of the tallest mounds stretch over 160 feet in the air. Stroll the dunes, taking in the scenery of one of the most beautiful places in Australia with a bit of exercise, or embark on a 4-wheel drive adventure via quad bike or motorbike to gain access to some of the more difficult terrain to cross on foot. For an even more unique experience, book a camel ride or try your hand at sandboarding.
Mount Wellington, Hobart
Pinnacle Track in Mount Wellington, Hobart
The resident Mount Wellington, located just 15 miles outside the city of Hobart, is an icon to the Australian island of Tasmania. Although you can see the peak from various vantage points within the city, getting a close-up look at this breathtaking work of Mother Nature is a must. Enjoy a scenic 13-mile drive up to the top of Mount Wellington for an awe-inspiring vista from the top.
See more of the diverse landscape on one of the area’s numerous trails for all ages and abilities. Discover lush eucalyptus forests, waterfalls, and the unique organ pipe rock formations created from the cliffside dolerite rocks. One of the most popular trails is the 30-minute Zig-Zag Track, which leads to sprawling views of Hobart and the surrounding area.
Barron Gorge National Park, Cairns
Barron Gorge National Park, Cairns
In Australia’s northern Queensland region, Barron Gorge National Park offers an abundance of natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor exploration just outside the city of Cairns. This diverse park is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor recreation.
The star attractions include the Barron River and the Barron Gorge, a dramatic landscape with a breathtaking waterfall. Head out on the popular Rainforest Walk, where you’ll have the chance to see various flora and fauna while gaining different vantage points of the impressive cascading Barron Falls. Walk along the edge of the gorge, observing the magnificent views from different overlooks.
Or sit back and relax on a ride along the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway that travels almost five miles through the park, and take in the spectacular scenery. The Aboriginal ties to the land provide a historical and spiritual aspect to the park experience.
Bondi Beach, Sydney
Bondi Beach, Sydney
Bondi Beach is one of the most famous landmarks in Australia. Enjoy beachside bliss at this lively seaside spot with plenty of white sand to lounge on. Watch skilled surfers take on the waves, bask in the sun, or take a dip yourself. Cafes line the street behind the beach, where you can dine while feeling the sea breeze.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the well-known Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. This 3.7-mile pathway will lead you along the cliffs, past idyllic coves, beautiful parks, and small restaurants where you can try some of the best food in Sydney.
The Great Barrier Reef
Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef, located off the coast of Queensland, is the largest coral reef system in the world and one of the most renowned Australian landmarks.
Australia is known for the Great Barrier Reef, where you can swim among hundreds of colorful species of fish, greet sea turtles as you snorkel through clear blue waters, or dive below to uncover the diverse marine life that exists beneath the surface. Marvel at over 400 types of coral or spot seabirds above the surface.
Another thrilling way to experience the Great Barrier Reef is with a scenic flight, which will grant you a bird’s-eye perspective over the otherworldly beauty. Admire impressive patterns created from coral as you soar above it—the mix of vivid colors will leave you breathless. Glide over the exciting heart-shaped coral reef that contrasts beautifully with the azure sea and shallow white sand.
Daintree Rainforest, Port Douglas
Daintree Rainforest, Port Douglas
As the oldest living rainforest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest is a UNESCO-listed natural Australian landmark. The rich ecosystem is incredibly diverse, thanks to the combination of reef and rainforest landscape, so visiting here is truly one of the unmissable things to do in Port Douglas. From hiking in Mossman Gorge to uncovering secluded beaches in Cape Tribulation, there’s plenty to discover here.
Explore at your own pace along the Daintree Rainforest Coastal Drive. Spot wildlife within the rainforest, like crocodiles on a river cruise or the bright blue Ulysses butterfly on a hike.
Sydney Opera House, Sydney
Sydney Opera House, Sydney
Sydney boasts one of the best skylines in the world thanks in part to its iconic Sydney Opera House. The design of this Australian landmark was determined through an international contest held in the 1950s and has since earned a spot as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Even if you don’t attend a performing arts show at this amazing venue, it’s worth a visit to appreciate the interesting architecture. Enjoy the sea breeze as you admire the structure from afar or tour the building for a glimpse at its interior.
The Gold Coast, Queensland
Gold Coast, Queensland
Frequented by surfing enthusiasts, the idyllic Gold Coast in Queensland is a popular destination for fun in the sun. With over 35 miles of white sand to choose from, you’ll have plenty of options for lounging and relaxing.
Some of the most popular stretches of sand include Burleigh Heads, Coolangatta, Surfer’s Paradise, and Main Beach. Take a surf lesson or just sit back and watch the skilled surfers ride the waves as you bask in the warm sun rays.
Outside of the bustling beach scene, enjoy excellent cuisine or venture into the surrounding rainforest. Hike along designated paths alongside diverse flora and fauna, guided by the sounds of cascading waterfalls. If you’re in search of adventure, get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling skydive or ridge along Australia’s highest zip line.
Port Arthur, Tasmania
Port Arthur, Tasmania
Located about an hour outside the city of Hobart, Port Arthur’s UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Australia’s most famous landmarks. Step back in time at this well-preserved landmark and learn about its storied past as a timber station convict settlement.
See the main penitentiary, guard tower, and the Convict Church. Watch a reenactment or take a boat ride to Port Arthur’s graveyard, “Isle of the Dead”.
Green Cape Lighthouse, Eden
Green Cape Lighthouse, Eden
The southernmost lighthouse in New South Wales is a well-known Australian landmark and scenic destination just south of the city of Eden. The lighthouse is one of Ben Boyd National Park’s famous points of interest, with many options within the park to explore the rugged coast, cliffside landscape, and picturesque lighthouse itself.
Gold Coast, Queensland
A cruise to Australia is a fantastic way to discover some of the top Australian landmarks. From well-known architectural feats to some of nature’s most exciting handiwork, Australia offers the escape of a lifetime. Browse itineraries on our website and book your Australian vacation today.
