Discover Australia
Why we love travelling to Australia
Fancy a trip across the land of kangaroos and koalas? Snag flights across Australia with Mix & Match Travel and discover a continent brimming with adventure.
Australia beckons with its diverse landscapes, from sun-kissed beaches and rugged outback to lush rainforests and vibrant cities. This vast country is a treasure trove of natural wonders, such as the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, and the iconic Twelve Apostles. Alongside its natural beauty, Australia offers a rich cultural experience, with its Indigenous heritage, world-class food scene, and vibrant arts and festivals.
As a must-visit destination, Australia is well-connected to the world. Major international airports include Sydney Kingsford Smith, Melbourne Tullamarine, and Brisbane Airport. Top airlines flying to Australia include Qantas, Virgin Australia, Singapore Airlines, and Emirates.
For the best deals on flights, consider booking in advance, monitoring seasonal sales, and flying during off-peak periods to avoid crowds and save on fares.
Discover affordable flights with Mix & Match.
Sydney is famous for its landmarks, but it’s the hidden gems that make it unforgettable. Start your day with a refreshing dip at the serene Bronte Park or discover one of the world’s smallest bars at The Baxter Inn. Don’t leave without trying the legendary Aussie meat pie at Harry’s Café de Wheels!
Must-try: Crack into a plate of Sydney rock oysters fresh from the harbour.
Why stay: Explore famous sights plus quirky hidden gems you won’t find on postcards!
Melbourne is the city of laneways, where coffee culture is taken very seriously. Sip on a flat white at Degraves Street and get lost exploring art-filled alleys like Hosier Lane. Hop on a tram and head to St Kilda for penguin spotting at dusk, or join the locals in cheering at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Must-try: Treat yourself to a Melbourne foodie must – a hot jam doughnut from Queen Vic Market.
Why stay: The ultimate blend of world-class coffee, street art, and AFL madness.
Laid-back and sunny, Brisbane is known for its scenic riverfront and Australia Zoo, home to Steve Irwin’s wildlife legacy. Head to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for a close-up encounter, or kayak the Brisbane River at night, when the skyline shimmers. For a quirky twist, visit Eat Street Northshore, a market made out of shipping containers serving up everything from sushi burgers to rainbow gelato!
Must-try: Sample a local favourite, the Moreton Bay Bug – a type of lobster – at a waterfront restaurant.
Why stay: Warm weather, river adventures, and koalas.
The Gold Coast is more than just beaches. While Surfers Paradise offers epic waves, you can also skydive onto the beach for the ultimate thrill. Head to Burleigh Heads for a coastal hike with views to die for, or spend the day at Dreamworld riding Australia’s fastest rollercoasters. And after all that, chill out at Rick Shores for seafood right on the sand – try their famous bug roll!
Must-try: Enjoy a golden hour cocktail at a rooftop bar with views over the Pacific Ocean.
Why stay: Sun, surf, theme parks, and adrenaline-packed adventures all in one.
Cairns is famous as the launchpad for the Great Barrier Reef, but did you know you can also take a hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands? For something really special, swim in the crystal-clear waters of Josephine Falls or tackle the world’s fastest jungle swing at AJ Hackett. At night, the Cairns Night Markets are perfect for grabbing local delicacies like kangaroo steaks or tropical fruits.
Must-try: Freshly caught prawns from the Coral Sea at Prawn Star.
Why stay: Snorkel the reef by day, jungle swing by night, and eat seafood straight from the boat.
Perth’s sunsets are legendary, best enjoyed at Cottesloe Beach with fish and chips in hand. A short ferry ride will take you to Rottnest Island, where quokkas (the world’s happiest animals) are eager for a selfie. Head to Kings Park for stunning city views, or hit up one of the many rooftop bars. Check out the Twilight Hawkers Market for global street food with an Aussie twist.
Must-try: Try a traditional Aussie burger – complete with beetroot – at a local pub.
Why stay: Sunsets, quokkas, and some of Australia’s best hidden beaches.
Adelaide may be known for its wine, but it’s also home to some unique experiences. Go fossil hunting at Naracoorte Caves, then unwind with a glass of Barossa Valley Shiraz. For a fun night out, experience a RoofClimb at the Adelaide Oval or visit a secret speakeasy in the city’s East End. If you're in the mood for nature, take a bike ride through the stunning vineyards of McLaren Vale.
Must-try: Taste-test a ‘pie floater’ – a meat pie floating in pea soup, an Adelaide classic!
Why stay: A perfect combo of wine, weird eats, and unexpected adventures.
Tasmania is wild in every sense of the word, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine wilderness. Hike Cradle Mountain or explore the eerie Port Arthur. Visit MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) or join a tour of Tassie’s famous whiskey distilleries. For wildlife lovers, head to Bonorong Sanctuary to meet the island’s unique creatures, including the iconic Tasmanian devil.
Must-try: Dig into Tassie’s freshest oysters or a scallop pie – both are local favourites.
Why stay: Wild hikes, wicked whiskey, and wildlife you won’t find anywhere else.
Sailing through the Whitsundays is the stuff of dreams. Charter a yacht and explore the crystal-clear waters or fly over the famous Heart Reef for a view you'll never forget. Spend your afternoons lounging on Whitehaven Beach’s pure white sand, and evenings sipping cocktails under the stars.
Must-try: Fresh fish straight off the BBQ on a secluded island.
Why stay: For those picture-perfect moments of sailing, snorkelling, and secluded beach picnics.
If luxury and adventure are what you're after, Hamilton Island is a tropical paradise that offers both. Rent a golf buggy to explore the island (the best way to get around), then hit up Catseye Beach for water sports like paddleboarding. For something special, dine at Bommie Restaurant for high-end cuisine with unbeatable views.
Must-try: Sip a cocktail at One Tree Hill as the sun sets over the islands.
Why stay: Luxury Island resorts, water sports, and unforgettable sunsets.
Townsville is your gateway to both the Great Barrier Reef and the rugged Outback. Jump on the ferry to Magnetic Island, known to locals as “Maggie”, where you can hire a ‘Barbie car’ (think bright pink, open-top) to explore hidden beaches and hike the famous Forts Walk. Back on the mainland, grab a bite of crocodile sausage at the local markets!
Must-try: Enjoy a beach picnic with views of the WWII fort ruins on Magnetic Island.
Why stay: Quirky Island adventures, reef snorkelling, and a dash of the Outback.
Uluru isn’t just a rock – it’s a sacred place with a deep connection to Indigenous culture. Watch as it changes colour at sunset, then dine under the stars at the ‘Sounds of Silence’ dinner, complete with a traditional bush tucker menu. Explore the area by camel or take an Indigenous-led tour to learn the Dreamtime stories of this magical landscape.
Must-try: Sample bush foods like wattleseed bread and kangaroo tail stew at a cultural dinner.
Why stay: A spiritual journey through one of Australia’s most iconic and magnificent places.
Australia’s capital has some surprises in store! Visit the Australian War Memorial for a moving experience, then take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Lake Burley Griffin. For something unique, explore Questacon’s science exhibits, or sample an Aussie delicacy: lamingtons (sponge cake covered in chocolate and coconut).
Must-try: Visit the Old Bus Depot Markets for some locally-made treats, including award-winning Canberra truffles.
Why stay: A mix of culture, history, and scenic adventures.
Broome is known for its camel rides along Cable Beach at sunset – a must-do for visitors! During the right time of year, catch the natural phenomenon called the 'Staircase to the Moon,' when the full moon rises over exposed tidal flats. Visit the local pearl farms or relax with a mango beer from Matso’s Brewery.
Must-try: A local speciality, pearl meat, served fresh from Broome’s pearling industry.
Why stay: Camels, natural wonders, and a taste of outback-meets-ocean life.
Darwin is a tropical frontier with plenty of personality. Watch the famous Mindil Beach sunset while eating Asian street food from the markets, or hop on a crocodile cruise to see these incredible reptiles up close. Just outside the city, Litchfield National Park is home to beautiful waterfalls and rock pools perfect for a refreshing dip.
Must-try: Crocodile burgers at a local market – it’s an adventure for your tastebuds!Australia is a vast and diverse country, making it perfect for both international visitors and domestic travellers looking to explore their own backyard. While major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane attract most of the attention, there’s much more to discover beyond the urban centres. Whether it’s road-tripping along the Great Ocean Road, flying to the tropical north, or catching a flight to Tasmania, Australia’s domestic travel network is extensive and convenient. Domestic flights are plentiful, and the country is connected, making it easy to travel between regions.
For the best experience, plan your travels based on the season. Summer is great for exploring coastal cities and island getaways, while winter (June to August) is perfect for those looking to experience Australia’s alpine regions, like Thredbo or Mount Hotham. Domestic travel also offers a chance to dive deeper into Australia’s rich Indigenous heritage, outdoor adventures, and unique wildlife. No matter where you go, you'll find something new to love about Australia.
Australia is well-connected globally and domestically, making travel both to and around the country smooth and convenient. Whether you're arriving from across the world or hopping between cities within Australia, a range of airlines ensures you can explore the country easily.
Australia is serviced by numerous international airlines, connecting travellers to major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth:
Once you've arrived, Australia's extensive domestic airline network makes it easy to explore the country’s diverse regions, from coastal cities to remote outback destinations:
Together, these airlines make it easy to travel to Australia and explore its many wonders, ensuring you can experience the best of both international and domestic travel.
Exploring Australia by rental car offers the freedom and flexibility to discover the country's diverse landscapes at your own pace. Whether you're cruising along the scenic Great Ocean Road or heading inland to iconic landmarks like Uluru, renting a car makes it easy to access both well-known and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Major international and local car rental companies operate throughout Australia, with competitive rates, especially when booked in advance.
For great rates, compare options, look for promotions, and consider off-season bookings. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Popular rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Budget are available at airports and city centres, offering a wide range of vehicles from compact cars to larger SUVs for longer road trips. Find affordable car rentals to make the most of your trip.
For those seeking an adventurous and flexible way to travel campervan rentals are an ideal option. With the freedom to combine transportation and accommodation, campervan travel lets you fully embrace Australia's vast wilderness and iconic road trips. Companies like JUCY Rentals, Britz, and Maui offer a variety of campervans, equipped with sleeping areas, kitchen facilities, and all the essentials for an unforgettable road trip.
Whether you're driving up the coast of Queensland or camping near the national parks of Western Australia, campervan rentals provide a convenient and affordable way to experience the great outdoors. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travellers, renting a campervan allows you to immerse yourself in Australia’s stunning landscapes and make spontaneous stops along the way.
The best camping apps in Australia include:
To apply for an Australian travel guide or tourist information, you can:
Australia offers a range of must-visit destinations:
For camping in Australia, you'll need:
Australia is home to some of the world's most stunning beaches, and each state offers something unique.
Ultimately, Queensland is often considered the top spot for beach lovers due to its tropical waters and close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef.
Get inspired with what to see and do once booking your flights