Australia has all the elements that can fulfill your dream of having a great vacation. With a Super cool endless list of Australian cities and towns, amazing coastline, and extraordinary wildlife, this country is perfect for your vacations this year. The destination has extreme weather and the best time to visit is when the weather is not too cold and not too hot. However, the best time to visit depends upon the cities in Australia that are on your list. Below is the list of the top 20 famous Australian cities for you to go to for a well-planned trip.
Discover the Australian cities and towns with the list below, including iconic Sydney to cultural Melbourne well known for coffee and street art. Plan your trip to Australia to explore the laid-back beaches of Brisbane and the amazing vibe of Perth. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, cultural experience, or a family vacation,
Australian cities offer everything to everyone. The country is an amalgamation of bustling cities and natural wonders and is consistently among the most visited countries worldwide. The best time to visit the country varies and depends upon the region in general.
Here is the list of Top 25 Famous Cities in Australia:
- Sydney
- Brisbane
- Canberra
- Perth
- Melbourne
- Hobart
- Darwin
- Gold Coast
- Wollongong
- Adelaide
- Geelong
- Busselton
- Portland
- Launceston
- Alice Springs
- Gippsland
- Cairns
- Albany
- Dubbo
- Mudgee
- The Whitsundays
- Fremantle
- Newcastle
- Byron Bay
- Broome
Table of Contents
Famous Cities in Australia
Sydney
Sydney, many times mistakenly recognized as the capital city of Australia owing to its popularity, is the largest city in Australia by area. It is considered one of the most famous cities worldwide because of its natural beauty, which can be witnessed in its stunning beaches, world-famous attractions, and magnificent harbor. The city is world-famous for its amazing Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach and is considered a heaven for those who love cruising.
It is a modern and sophisticated city to visit on a tour to Australia that offers fantastic beaches and the Blue Mountains. The city is perfect for you if you enjoy the great outdoors with a vibrant cuisine, as there is no shortage of great places to eat and drink here.
Best time to visit – Months of September to November and March to May
What to do?
- Sydney Opera House for the ultimate experience
- Harbour Bridge
- Bondi Beach
- Enjoy famous delicious food and drinks
- Explore Sydney’s largest shopping malls
Brisbane
Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, well known for its art scene, and is a place with 250 days of sunshine in a year. It is amongst the oldest cities and third largest cities in Australia, built around the Brisbane River. The city boasts islands, beaches, and riverfront promenades, making it the best destination for water lovers. The place also offers many tourist attractions and is home to many wildlife sanctuaries, botanical gardens, beautiful beaches, and the Famous Australian Zoo. The city has the best weather all the time, and the palace has golden sand of inner city beaches that are in front of towering skyscrapers, which makes it more beautiful than all other Australian destinations.
Best time to visit – months of March to May
What to do?
- Visit Brisbane’s South Bank to explore markets, swimming lagoons, and city beaches.
- Visit Queensland Art Gallery
- Visit the Koala sanctuary
- Explore Kangaroo Point by Kayak.
- Hire a bike to explore the city on just two wheels.
Canberra
Canberra, the capital of Australia is known for its natural and human-made beauty and its historical attractions. It is counted among the best Australian cities and towns, filled with natural and architectural beauty, and is one of the greenest cities worldwide. Tourists here will not only find trees but small forest areas as well in many parts along with a scenic waterbody that runs throughout the city.
Also, the city has forest-carpeted mountains that double the entire beauty of the palace and which the destination such a beauty to behold. Canberra is a modern, clean city that has many options for outdoor lovers, including excellent museums, monuments, and galleries.
Best time to visit – Months between March to May and September to November
What to do?
- Make a tour of museums and galleries to explore the work of top artists.
- Explore the Australian War Memorial to dip into the stories of major conflicts.
- Visit the city’s green haven, Lake Burley Griffin
- Try hot ballooning
- Enjoy sophisticated restaurant scenes of Canberra.
Perth
Perth is a great and one of the best cities in Australia, an unexplored coastline in Western Australia, and is popular for its stunning natural appeal. The city has plenty of art galleries, museums, white sand beaches, and more green areas. The place is best for those who seek relaxing vacations and to enjoy a picnic with family. Known for its architecture and plenty of restaurants & bars, the city attracts flocks of tourists every year.
The palace is also best for adventure seekers as it offers many things to enjoy from swimming to wildlife exploration, wine tasting to beach hopping. The destination is Australia’s sunniest; it offers many existing activities in a bright and warm environment all year round.
Best time to visit – Months between March to May / September to November
What to do?
- Visit the Art Gallery for contemporary aboriginal art.
- Explore al-Fresco restaurants, heritage buildings, coffee shops, and Historic Freemantle.
- Visit Kings Park and Wine regions.
- Visit The Pinnacle Desert to explore the rock structures formed many years ago.
- Spend a relaxing day on beaches at Cottesloe and Mettams Pool.
Melbourne
Melbourne is counted amongst the friendliest Australian cities and is one of the incredibly beautiful destinations that offers plenty of amazing attractions and friendly local people who always welcome tourists lovingly. The city is picturesque, with decorated trees and a scenic water body flowing all through it.
It is also known as the cultural capital of the country with fully packed stress with many art galleries and museums that make you delve deep into Australian history. Stroll down these streets to get entertained, explore art, and witness the impressive skyline and stunning architecture. Here you will see vintage shops, coffee culture, and plenty of nature and wildlife as well.
Best time to visit – Months between March to May / September to November
What to do?
- Explore Australia’s oldest art gallery.
- Queen Victoria Market for delicious street food.
- Visit Phillip Island to see little penguins.
- Join a tour of colorful backstreets to delve deep into street art.
- Don’t forget to take a balloon ride over the city.
Hobart
Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is full of history and natural beauty. It is great for history lovers, boasting history along with the natural scenery of a charming river. The place has everything from rivers, mountains, wildlife, and plants and is towered by Mount Wellington, which makes it appealing. It is considered the second oldest city in Australia; the destination is the best place to learn about the history of Australia through museums.
You must visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery for sure as these are counted among the oldest museums in the country. Also, Hobart is popular for its impressive architecture, botanical gardens, vibrant markets, and many other attractions to make your trip memorable.
Best time to visit- Months from December to February
What to do?
- Visit the waterfront for sure, which has historic warehouses, a working fishing harbor, and many seafood restaurants.
- Explore the oldest Art Gallery and Tasmanian Museum for natural history.
- Explore the best restaurants of North Hobart and Salamanca Market for great food and beer.
- Take a cruise or water taxi to explore the city built on the Derwent River.
- Hike Mount Wellington to enjoy magnificent views.
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Darwin
Darwin is the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory and is one of the closest major cities to Asia. Thus, much of its culture is influenced by Asia, from food to lifestyle. You will find many similarities. However, Darwin is considered amongst the largest cities in Australia. Tourists will find many things to explore, from rich wildlife, lots of attractions, delicious Asian food, and many more to go.
The city is surrounded by water and thus is a great place to fish, cruise, sail, or dine with a beautiful sunset. Here you can also catch a seaplane as easily as catching a bus. It is also a great place to explore Australia’s wildest region, The Top End.
Best time to visit – Months of May to September
What to do?
- Visit Mindil Beach to explore an eclectic market selling indigenous crafts and Indonesian food.
- Visit Darwin’s Museum and Art Gallery.
- Also, enjoy a display of aircraft at The Darwin Heritage Centre.
- Join a cruise to the Adelaide River to see crocodiles.
- Book a heli fishing day trip to The Top End.
Gold Coast
Gold Coast is among Australia’s most popular cities that offer both natural and urban beauty with miles of white sand beaches that surround the entire city. This destination has something for everyone, whether you seek luxury, relaxation, or adventure. The city has its own incredible beauty, both natural and architectural, and that makes all the activities even more amazing and interesting.
Gold Coast in Australia is a coastal city and paradise to all travelers with stunning white sand beaches where adventure seekers can enjoy all year surfing. You can stay at luxury hotels here, having great views and parks full of adventure and wildlife. The place is well known for its rollercoasters, surfing, and nightclubs.
Best time to visit – Months between March to May / September to November
What to do?
- Enjoy cultural walk tours at Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre.
- Explore native species at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Enjoy surfing at this top surfing destination at Main Beach.
- Explore Theme Parks with kids
- Take a hiking trip to nearby Mount Tamborine.
Wollongong
It is one of the most beautiful coastal cities in Australia, well known for its port industry and its natural abundance. The city borders two fantastic beaches and is considered one of the great surfing spots. However, it has a lovely backdrop but is a lively place with many nice restaurants and bars. The city combines the best of the cultural scenes with the outdoors and delivers numerous activities and attractions that suit everybody’s interests.
The destination has everything for you, whether you are an art lover, a nature lover, an adventurer, or a family person with kids. The destination also boasts vibrant nightlife as you can check into many bars and clubs as well to enjoy.
Best time to visit – Months September to February
What to do?
- Enjoy Cycling or driving at the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge.
- Enjoy swimming at The Gong’s beautiful beaches
- Take a tour of temples, galleries, museums
- Explore hiking trails to explore the city, the best on the Sublime Point walking track.
- Wollongong City Beach and Wollongong Harbor are not to be missed.
Adelaide
Adelaide is considered one of the more natural cities in Australia compared to other big cities. It is a coastal destination with plenty of white-sand beaches and the best food and wine in the entire country. There are many bars and restaurants here, which you can find on almost every corner of Adelaide. Also, in terms of things to enjoy, the city has plenty of options, including vibrant markets, art galleries, botanical gardens, zoos, museums, and, of course, beaches.
The adventure enthusiast may find endless options to enjoy great and exciting vacations here as the water bodies in the city are great for boating and kayaking. Adventure seekers may also enjoy the Cobbler Recreation Park, which is popular for hiking adventures.
Best time to visit – Months between March to May / September to November
What to do?
- Visit the Art Gallery of South Australia for the national and local art collections.
- To enjoy native animals, get to Cleland Wildlife Park.
- Don’t forget to learn about wine and enjoy tasting at The National Wine Centre.
- For wildlife lovers, explore Kangaroo Island, and enjoy the Kangaroo wildlife safari for sure.
- Tour the vineyards in Adelaide Hills, Clare Valley, Barossa Valley, and McLaren Vale.
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Geelong
Geelong is among the popular cities of Australia, lying 70 km away from Melbourne, and is centered around the waterfront at Corio Bay. It is considered a perfect destination that is also a getaway to the Great Ocean Road. The city attracts tourists every year with its impressive and colorful gardens and beachfront, charming villages, and scenic natural beauty. The main attraction of Geelong is its heritage architecture.
It also boasts many other activities like relaxing, shopping, dining, etc, that make a vacation perfect. The place is worth visiting owing to its unique history and culture, as this vibrant port city of Australia has everything for everyone.
Best time to visit- Months from November to March
What to do?
- Explore the waterfront Art Trail to enjoy peace and tranquillity
- Visit Adventure Park to enjoy giant water slides.
- Visit Boom Gallery to explore contemporary art design pieces.
- Geelong Botanical Gardens to witness typical botanic garden fare.
- Serendip Sanctuary is a haven for all big and small creatures.
Busselton
It is among the most pleasant Australian cities and is well known for the longest jetty which is still unexplored. The destination offers many attractions, both natural beauty and man-made attractions. However, it attracts tourists with its world-famous Busselton Jetty, an underwater observatory that is a window to the ocean.
It offers a beautiful and exclusive backdrop to white sandy beaches along with rocks, caves, and forest regions as well. It is a wonderful destination for a family vacation with many natural locations.
Best time to visit– Months from November to March
What to do?
- Try an undersea walk at Busselton Jetty
- Swing and zipline through Ludlow Tuart Forest
- Visit the ArtGeo Cultural Complex
- Book a food and wine tour
- Birdwatching in the Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands.
Portland
It is an adventurous destination four hours drive from Melbourne, fully packed with insane beauty, great walks, Fascinating cultural heritage, great pies, etc. It is said to be the most unexplored, most interesting town on Victoria’s coast. Tourists can take a stroll through Portland’s heritage city centers to learn more about its history and also explore beautiful local beaches and botanical gardens. The city’s waterfront is the main attraction, and its nearby shires are popular for fishing and surfing.
Best time to visit- Months between June to August
What to do?
- Take a tour of Portland’s historical buildings
- Climb aboard the foreshore Cable Tram
- Enjoy a meal on Bentinck Street,
- Stroll at Bridgewater Bay
- Visit Mt Richmond National Park
Launceston
Launceston is a beautiful Australian city with many things to offer to tourists who seek a place to look, step back, and relax. The city features elegant Colonial and Victorian architecture, which adds a star to its charm. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers as it is a riverside city located at the top of the Tamar Valley and nearby wineries.
The charming city offers many things to do, and the list is long and varied. Tourists here can enjoy cultural heritage, beautiful parks, and gardens, and can also enjoy a thriving food and wine atmosphere.
Best time to visit – MOnths from December to February
What to do?
- Visit The Cataract Gorge
- Enjoy Scenic Cataract Gorge Cruise
- A day trip to Cradle Mountain
- Unwind at Lilydale Falls
- Explore Tamar Valley Wine Region
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Alice Springs
Alice Springs in Australia is located in the center and is well worth a visit. The place is among the best cities to visit as it has many things to explore, including museums and Aboriginal art galleries. It is situated on the banks of the Todd River and is a perfect getaway to many best landscapes and beautiful sceneries.
And is also a hub for Aboriginal art as well. Tourists can enjoy an array of outdoor activities here, including camel rides, sunrise hot air balloons, and floating in freshwater swimming holes.
Best time to visit – Months from March to May
What to do?
- Visit Alice Springs Desert Park
- Visit Uluru
- Royal Flying Doctor Museum
- Megafauna central
- Abzac Hill
Gippsland
Gippsland is a picturesque coastal region of Australia where temperatures are cooler than elsewhere. It is a perfect destination for campervan adventurers and is home to lush rainforests, pristine beaches, soothing hot springs, epic mountains, and immense inland lakes. The place offers endless options for adventure seekers and is considered a delightful destination for outdoor activities. Plan a vacation if you seek the best beach holiday in Victoria.
Best time to visit – Months from May to August
What to do?
- Visit Wilson Promontory National Park
- Explore the Gippsland Food and Wine trail
- Enjoy the stunning views at Agnes Falls
- Explore the spectacular stretch of Ninety Mile Beach
- Explore Buchan caves
Cairns
Cairns, on the coast of northern Queensland, is a well-known place and a base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef. The destination is surrounded by towering cliffs and white sand beaches and is known for its natural appeal along with the urban atmosphere. The city combines beauty and adventure perfectly,
which makes it Australia’s top tourist destination. The palace is also best for adventure seekers as they can enjoy many activities here, including sailing, diving, hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. The palace boasts greenery as it is surrounded by trees at every house and a rainforest that has a natural vibe. If you love outdoor activities and exploration, Cairns is the best destination for you.
Best time to visit– Months of June to November
What to do?
- Visit The Great Barrier Reef, and enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving here.
- Plan a day trip to Fitzroy Island, Upolu Cay, and Green Island.
- To explore the Reef’s wildlife, explore Cairns Aquarium.
- Visit picnic spots, boardwalk, and saltwater lagoon.
- Visit Crystal Cascades for a wild swim.
Albany
Albany is a picturesque city on the beautiful south coast of Western Australia, blessed with many stunning coastal views. It is among the most enchanting destinations nowadays owing to its historic buildings, spectacular scenery, and abundant wildlife. Tourists must take a walking tour of old colonial quarters here to explore the historical ambiance.
One of the popular activities to do is to enjoy a cruise boat ride along the remarkable coastline amid beautiful coastline cliffs and white sandy beaches. Also, you must visit the Torndirrup National Park nearby to make your Albany tour memorable.
Best time to visit – Months between May to September
What to do?
- Surf at Misery Beach
- Witness the blowholes
- Whale sighting trips
- Middleton Beach
- Visit the National ANZAC Centre
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Dubbo
It is one of the iconic Australian cities and a popular destination among tourists owing to its range of attractions and activities that it offers. The city is popular for its stunning landscapes, cultural attractions, and historic sites and thus is the most preferred destination to explore.
The city offers visitors many outdoor activities as well like camping, mountain biking, bushwalking, and fishing, and is also great for shopping and dining as well. There are many vibrant markets and restaurants in the city for travelers to explore; also, it hosts several festivals as well as events throughout the year.
Best time to visit- Months from November to March
What to do?
- Visit Taronga Western Plains Zoo
- Visit Old Dubbo Gaol
- Visit the Western Plains Cultural Centre
- Shoyoen Japanese Garden
- Gaze into Dubbo Observatory
Mudgee
It is a tiny town in Australia that is very colonial and elegant in its culture. The place offers many old monuments and buildings showcasing the colonial past and also has many food and parks connected with the ancient past. It is also known as a winemaking town and attracts many tourists who love to indulge in wine.
The town has many tourist spots to enjoy and thus is the most preferred destination for a short weekend road trip. Plan a trip for mind relaxation and calmness. Tourists should explore local markets here to get local produce and handmade designs.
Best time to visit- Months from December to February
What to do?
- Taste the finest wines.
- Explore local Farmers’ Market.
- Dinner on a vineyard
- Short walks at The Drip Gorge
- Explore wildlife at The Putta Bucca Wetlands
The Whitsundays
Whitsunday Islands are the most popular tourist places to visit in Australia and sit in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. These are the green islands with sandy tools, along with beautiful white sand beaches along with turquoise waters. In all 74 islands, many of the Whitsundays and every island has its charm and magic.
The place is a true paradise where tourists will discover blue coves, and green rainforests, along with sunsets. It is the perfect treat if you want to enjoy a family-friendly vacation or explore an outdoor adventure.
Best time to visit – Months of May to September
What to do?
- Visit Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet lookout
- Snorkel in The Great Barrier Reef
- Enjoy scenic flight
- Visit Hamilton island
- Go Bareboating
Fremantle
It is a colorful and vibrant port city in Western Australia, known for its relaxing vibe and easygoing attitude. The city is amazingly rich in colonial and maritime history that tourists will love to explore. Also, it offers a world-class culinary scene along with an eclectic range of cultural experiences as well.
The city has a lot to offer to visitors as it has a great unique selection of unique things to do. It is perfect for a one-day trip or a weekend tour as it has lots of museums, art galleries, bars, and cafes and offers a relaxed vibe. It is just 45 minutes from Perth and is actually the most preferred tourist destination.
Best time to visit – Months from September to November and March to May
What to do?
- Wander the markets
- Visit Roundhouse
- Ride the Ferris wheel
- Visit Maritime Museum
- Go on a sunset sail
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Newcastle
It is the second oldest city in Australia, just two hours from north of Sydney; however, the city is overlooked most of the time but is worth visiting. It has everything that a tourist needs for a memorable vacation, like attractive architecture, many historic tourist attractions, beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and numerous surfing spots.
The city attracts many tourists owing to its thriving arts and culture scene with fantastic restaurants, trendy bars, and spectacular coastal scenery. Newcastle is an unexplored hidden gem. The city is also the largest exporter of coal worldwide and is also a great base to explore many surrounding areas as well.
Best time to visit – Months between May to June / September to October
What to do?
- Swim in the city’s ocean pools.
- Take a tour of the city’s architecture
- Explore Bather’s Way Stretch
- Stroll around King Edward Park
- Surf at Newcastle’s best beaches
Byron Bay
Byron Bay is Australia’s beautiful coastal town famous for its diverse culture, pristine beaches, and rich history. It is among popular Australian cities and towns that are globally recognized as a paradise for surfers and nature lovers. The destination boasts beautiful beaches and a verdant backdrop with hills, rainforests, and cascading waterfalls.
It is the perfect spot for travelers looking for a relaxed vacation. The town also has many yoga and wellness centers and health food cafes. It is said to be one of Australia’s charming towns with lush rainforests, great dining, surf beaches, and new-age retreats.
Best time to visit – Months between September to November
What to do?
- Visit Wategos Beach
- Explore Arakwal National Park
- Drive down the Pacific Coast touring route.
- Enjoy the thrill of kayaking
- Plan a day at the Crystal Castle to meditate and relax
Broome
It is among the most ancient cities of Western Australia, well known as the gateway to the Kimberley, and is also a popular destination on its own. The place has a rich past and also offers great food, amazing beaches, a colorful blend of local characters, and a relaxed feel.
It is its natural environment and amazing turquoise waters with intensely colored red earth that attracts visitors from all over the world. The place also attracts fishing enthusiasts who wish to try their hands at catching some tropical species. It is a well-known destination to reach the Kimberley region for extended tours and cruises.
Best time to visit – Months from May to October
What to do?
- Explore the most iconic Cable Beach.
- Witness Staircase to the Moon.
- Discover Dinosaur footprint at Gantheaume Point
- Dive into the city’s Pearling history
- Visit Chinatown
Conclusion
Australia is an island continent, and the beautiful country of Kangaroos is the first on travelers’ lists of vacation destinations in 2024. The list of the many largest cities in Australia is endless, and tourists will definitely get everything they wish for a perfect vacation. If you are seeking an unforgettable travel experience, visit Australia, as the country is full of unique experiences and destinations that are still awaiting exploration.
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Check Latest Stories:
What are the top 3 cities in Australia?
The list of Australia’s best cities is long; however, the top three cities are Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Which city is the cheapest in Australia?
Adelaide and Cairns are the cities that are cheapest in Australia.
What is the smallest city in Australia?
The smallest city in Australia is Coladdi.
Which is the safest city in Australia?
The safest city in Australia is Canberra.
What currency does Australia use?
The currency used in Australia is AUD- Australian Dollar.
Is living in Australia expensive?
Living in Australia is more expensive than in India, especially in some main cities like Sydney.
What is the richest state in Australia?
New South Wales is considered one of the richest states in Australia.