First Choice
Internal-vacation flights included
Internal-vacation flights included

Australian Highlights

13 Day Guided Vacation | Melbourne to Sydney

Picture Australia: the Coral Sea’s turquoise, the intense rainforest green, powdery white sand, the Red Centre’s ochre soil. These are your palette on this Melbourne to Sydney tour, spanning glittering cities and the outback, World Heritage Sites – Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Great Barrier Reef – and exclusive experiences. Whether Melbourne’s cafes or a barbeque, food is a focus, because this is Australia; eating well is in our DNA.

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$7401

Adult Twin i A person 16 years and over (note a person 16–17 years must be accompanied by a person 18 years and over). All prices are per person, land only unless otherwise indicated.
Above lowest price is based on 2024-06-23 departure

$9148

Single i A person, who must be 18 years and over, travelling alone, must pay the single room price. All prices are per person, land only unless otherwise indicated.
Above lowest price is based on 2024-06-23 departure
Prices above are per person in USD
Single rooms are limited and subject to availability
Child prices may be available on request

*Internal-vacation flights: Please note that prices include land and internal-vacation airfares, which AAT Kings will book in order to fulfil the holiday itinerary.

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Trip Details

trip-details-whats-includedWhat's included

  • • Specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
    • 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park, Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Opera House
    • Centrally located premium hotels
    • Arrival and departure private airport transfers

trip-details-diningDining

  • • 2 Dinners with Wine
  • • 12 Full Breakfasts
  • • 1 Be My Guest Dinner
  • • 1 Lunch
  • • 1 Highlight Lunch
  • • 1 Farewell Dinner

trip-details-flight-infoFlight Information

  • Day 1 – flights to arrive prior to 12 noon into Melbourne Airport 
    Day 13 – flights to depart anytime from Sydney Airport 
    Internal-holiday flights: Please note that prices include land and internal-holiday airfares, which AAT Kings will book in order to fulfil the holiday itinerary: 
    Day 4 – Melbourne to Alice Springs 
    Day 7 – Ayers Rock to Cairns 
    Day 10 – Cairns to Sydney 
    Return airfares from your home port are not included in the price above. 
    Return airport to hotel transfers are included in the price above. 

trip-details-what-to-bringWhat to Bring

  • • Camera
  • • Comfortable walking shoes
  • • Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
  • • Water bottle
  • • Warm layers in cooler months

trip-details-fitness-level-requirementsFitness Requirements

    Low level of fitness required

Itinerary Generating PDF...

image map

Is there such a thing as too much time in Melbourne? Arrive early before meeting your fellow adventure-seekers over a beverage or two.

  Hotel: Crowne Plaza Hotel Melbourne

  Included Meals: Dinner with Wine

Melbourne is known for its cool cafés – we recommend grabbing a coffee to fuel you through a walking tour exploring the city’s most eye-popping laneways. This afternoon, you decide. Perhaps a nature-based sojourn to Phillip Island to see penguins waddle from the ocean to the sand? We wouldn’t blame you for lingering and taking a deep dive into Melbourne’s culinary offerings. Ask us for tips on the hottest spots to drink and dine.

  Hotel: Crowne Plaza Hotel Melbourne

  Included Meals: Breakfast

If you’re still getting your Melbourne bearings, linger in town to explore boutiques, galleries, and eclectic suburbs. But if it’s time to venture further afield, you might want to sign up to discover the Great Ocean Road, a stretch of coastline that deserves its reputation as one of the most scenic touring routes in the world. Wherever you wander, be sure to take in a show at one of the city’s glorious theatres. We can assist with tickets.

  Hotel: Crowne Plaza Hotel Melbourne

  Included Meals: Breakfast

Some parts of Australia are so remote that the only way kids can get an education is remotely via the School of the Air. Your next stop is the birthplace of the Alice Springs township, the historic Telegraph Station. Being this far flung also means there’s no light pollution from cars or skyscrapers. The result? Unrivalled stargazing (and a BBQ feast) with the Falzon family at their eco-oriented Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre.

  Hotel: Mercure Alice Springs Resort

  Included Meals: Breakfast, Be My Guest Dinner

Spiritual, sacred and spectacular, the world's largest rock monolith will give you goosebumps. In Australia's Red Centre, Uluru has been home to the Anangu people for millennia. Their connection is palpable, as you'll discover when you arrive at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, at sunset watching the shifting colours transform the desert with every last ray (sparkling wine essential).

  Hotel: Desert Gardens

  Included Meals: Breakfast

If there’s one thing worth getting out of bed early for, it’s sunrise over Uluru. Incredibly, the Rock’s base caves are home to First Nations art that dates back tens of thousands of years. What an honour to glimpse it. The ochres and silvery greens of the NT outback follow you to Kata Tjuta, where Walpa Gorge humbles with its soaring cliffs. Wander through the tallest domes before yet another sparkling sunset (and sparkling wine).

  Hotel: Desert Gardens

  Included Meals: Breakfast

Ok, so the other reason to get up early is to view artist Bruce Munro’s installation Field of Light at dawn – 50,000 glowing spindles of light blanketing the desert. Clamber to the top of a sand dune to marvel in the morning unfolding over this very special part of the world. An Anangu artist will explain just what makes it so spiritual over an introduction to Western Desert art, introducing totems and symbols important to the region and represented in paintings and installations. Head to your next stop in sunny Cairns.

  Hotel: Hilton Hotel Cairns

  Included Meals: Breakfast

If you’re in the habit of getting up early now, you may wish to begin your day with an optional horizon-bending hot-air-balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands. Prefer to stay grounded? Sign up for a guided walk through the Daintree Rainforest, or surround yourself with nature riding the Scenic Railway to Kuranda returning on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway – perhaps with a side visit to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures for wetlands cruise? Tonight, celebrate the end of an incredible day at dinner on Cairns’ waterfront at Salt House for regional seafood plucked straight from the ocean, highlighting fresh, local ingredients, and prepared on their custom-built Argentinian wood fired grill.

  Hotel: Hilton Hotel Cairns

  Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

The world’s largest living organism, the Great Barrier Reef, never fails to dazzle. Set out on a catamaran to explore a kaleidoscope of colour: over 1,500 species of fish, 215 different birds, 3,000 molluscs, six of the world’s seven marine turtle species, and 30 species of dolphins and whales are residents. Strap on a snorkel or visit an underwater observatory and semi-submersible craft to take in the menagerie without getting your hair wet.

  Hotel: Hilton Hotel Cairns

  Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Touch down in Australia’s largest city, and spend time at leisure in the buzzing metropolis of Sydney. Take a stroll along the iconic harbour, visit one of the city’s many bars, pubs, or restaurants, or simply while away the day at the beach. You decide how best to enjoy this bustling city of delights.

 

  Hotel: InterContinental Hotel Sydney

  Included Meals: Breakfast

Bring your stamina: today is one of innumerable highlights. Go behind the scenes at the Sydney Opera House, discovering its architectural and performance secrets. If these sails could talk. Then see the city from the water on a Sydney Harbour Highlight Lunch Cruise enjoying a menu focusing on local food and wine. One icon to another: The world’s most famous beach beckons this afternoon, with your chance to pad along the sand at Bondi with Sydney’s beautiful people.

  Hotel: InterContinental Hotel Sydney

  Included Meals: Breakfast, Highlight Lunch

You could spend weeks exploring Sydney. Months even. But you have today, so get set for a wild ride. Your agenda is completely up to you, but we have more than a few ideas. Perhaps a ferry ride to Manly for fish-n-chips on the beach? And ideally a stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, which offers so many lookouts for sparkling harbour views. This evening, celebrate your holiday at a Farewell Dinner at Midden restaurant at the Sydney Opera House. Talk about ending on a high.

  Hotel: InterContinental Hotel Sydney

  Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

What an epic journey, with so many destinations explored in less than two weeks. Now you just have to sort through the photos…

  Included Meals: Breakfast

Please note: This itinerary may be subject to change.


Australian Highlights

First Choice

13 Day Guided Vacation

Melbourne to Sydney

Picture Australia: the Coral Sea’s turquoise, the intense rainforest green, powdery white sand, the Red Centre’s ochre soil. These are your palette on this Melbourne to Sydney tour, spanning glittering cities and the outback, World Heritage Sites – Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Great Barrier Reef – and exclusive experiences. Whether Melbourne’s cafes or a barbeque, food is a focus, because this is Australia; eating well is in our DNA.

Highlights

Local Connection

Whether you’re exploring vibrant city streets (think, Melbourne’s art-filled alleys) or remote reaches of the Northern Territory under a blaze of stars, you’ll be wowed by local knowledge.

Cultural Immersion

The Sydney Opera House is the stuff of postcards. You get to go behind the scenes with an expert who not only reveals architectural highlights, but also performance secrets.

Sustainable Footprints

Some of Australia’s legendary wilderness areas – Uluru, Kakadu and Litchfield – are its most fragile. Your National Parks fees preserve them for posterity.

Wildlife & Nature

The only living organism you can see from outer space, the Great Barrier Reef is among the world’s most important, and biodiverse, ecosystems. Dive under the surface and see for yourself.

Accommodation

Your Guided Holiday includes a range of quality accommodation for your comfort.
The accommodation you will enjoy on this tour includes:

Optional Experiences

Please note, prices for Optional Experiences are subject to change.

To ensure your holiday is filled with memorable experiences, we have included a range of quality Optional Experiences for you to choose from and partake in, if you wish, during your holiday. The experiences can be booked on tour through your Travel Director.

Bridge Climb (Sydney)

Adult Price: AUD 344.00
Child Price: AUD 149.00

The Bridge Climb is a 3 1/2 hour guided journey to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It takes you along the outer arch of the Bridge on catwalks and ladders all the way to the summit, 134 metres above Sydney Harbour. Climbing in groups of up to 14 people, you’ll be led by one of BridgeClimb’s professional Climb Leaders on an adventure of the world’s most recognisable Bridge. Various tours available and prices from:
FITNESS REQUIREMENTS / NEED TO KNOW: A general level of fitness is required. Guests aged 75 years of age or older require a Certificate of Fitness signed by a medical professional. To download the certificate template and view all health and safety advice, please visit https://www.bridgeclimb.com/plan-your-visit/pre-climb-checklist.
Bridge Climb

The Rocks Pub Walk (Sydney)

Adult Price: From AUD 115.00

Tread in the footsteps of the convicts, larrikin gangs & locals of the past as you share a drink in four of Sydney's oldest pubs. Between watering holes, your guide will take you through the alleys & cobbled streets of The Rocks as they share the gossip, shouts and stories of Australia's first European settlement. Tour includes: A choice of a beer (285ml/10oz), house wine or soft drink at each pub. 2.5 hours in duration. Runs 2:30pm & 6.30pm daily. Commences from Harts Pub, Essex St & Gloucester Street, The Rocks.

The Rocks Pub Walk

Down Under Tours Daintree Dreaming With Ngadiku Walk (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD $330 Child Price: AUD $294

A cultural journey taking you from coast to rainforest experiencing natural beauty and ancient culture. Learn traditional hunting and gathering skills as you search for bush tucker of mud crabs, fish and mussels before tasting and sharing what you have caught and gathered. A short drive away is the lush rainforest of Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. Here you will experience the splendour of the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest. Enjoy a guided interpretive walk through the ancient rainforest and along the banks of the pristine waters of the Mossman Gorge. Lunch & damper included.
Down Under Tours Daintree Dreaming With Ngadiku Walk

Down Under Tours Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Railway (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD $199 Child PriceAUD $105

Join your Down Under Tours coach transfer to Smithfield Station. Here you join Skyrail and marvel at the World's Most Beautiful Rainforest Experience, including time at both Red Peak and Barron Falls stations, both with spectacular lookouts. On arrival in Kuranda, the Village is yours to explore. The vibrant and colourful Heritage markets take place daily. Your return to Cairns is aboard the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail. Winding around curves, across bridges and through hand-hewn tunnels, this amazing engineering feat is a tribute to our pioneers. Upon arrival at historic Freshwater Station, you will board your coach back to your accommodation.

Down Under Tours Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Railway

Down Under Tours: Kuranda, Scenic Skyrail & Hartley's Crocodile's (KHC) (Cairns)

Adult: $262.00 AUD
Child: 135.00 AUD

Enjoy this historical rail journey to Kuranda, with breathtaking views across the cane fields of Cairns, to the tropical rainforest of Kuranda. Upon arrival you will have around one hour to explore this fascinating village of colourful and interesting arts and crafts. At 11.30am, make your way directly to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to experience this iconic rainforest. After arriving at the Smithfield Skyrail Terminal, the coach will transfer you to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. Explore the park, including the unique eco experience of the Wetlands cruise through the ecologically significant Melaleuca wetlands; the domain of the saltwater crocodile. (Operates Daily)

Down Under Tours: Kuranda, Scenic Skyrail & Hartley's Crocodile's (KHC)

Great Adventures Introductory Dive (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD 184.00

For an underwater adventure to remember, experience an introductory dive! It’s fun and no experience is necessary to take a fully supervised introductory dive. Professional and experienced instructors will guide you through every aspect of your dive, allowing you to have a relaxed, enjoyable experience.

Great Adventures Introductory Dive

Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles (Melbourne)

Adult Price: AUD 189.00
Child Price: AUD 129.00

Take a breath and enjoy a relaxed and unhindered view of the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge all before lunch, beating the traditional afternoon rush. En route let us take you on a journey inland, reaching Port Campbell National Park to marvel at the iconic limestone stacks in the morning. Spend the afternoon with your experienced Driver Guide, meandering along the winding Great Ocean Road, taking in the spectacular coastal scenery, the Otway Rainforest and seaside townships.

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Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles

Hot Air Cairns - 40 Minute Flight (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD 440.00 + flight levy (Weekday), $495.00 + flight levy (Weekend)

Experience the fun & unique sensation of being in a Hot Air Balloon, flying gently high above the Atherton Tablelands, Australia. The balloon takes off from Mareeba on the Atherton Tablelands. Enjoy the picturesque landscape at dawn, floating in your Hot Air Balloon, time to really breathe in the wide-open spaces! We have Australia's largest fleet of Hot Air Balloons and a fun and highly trained crew to maximise the enjoyment of your balloon flight. It's just like a balloon festival, every day!

*Additional $30.00 insurance levy to be paid direct to Hot Air Cairns applies.

** If your tour ends in Cairns, you must have post tour accommodation or a late departing flight. Ask us for details

Hot Air Cairns - 40 Minute Flight

Nautilus Aviation (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD $199

Take to the sky on a 10-minute scenic flight. You will have the best seat to witness the iconic Great Barrier Reef from above.

Nautilus Aviation

Ochre Restaurant - 2 Course Dinner (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD 65.00
Child Price: AUD 65.00

Ochre is an award-winning restaurant with a dedication to local produce, crafting native ingredients into modern exciting cuisine. The menu changes seasonally and is unique in its use of Australian native foods and regional produce.

Ochre Restaurant - 2 Course Dinner

Phillip Island - Penguins, Koalas & Wildlife (Melbourne)

Adult Price: AUD $199.00 

Child Price: AUD $139.00

If you’re curious about our native wildlife or just love animals, we’ve got you covered today! Start the day off with a visit to the Koala Conservation Reserve where you’ll join an experienced park Ranger and explore the tree top boardwalks to see the koalas up close in their natural habitat. Then there is the main attraction – The little penguins waddling up the sand to their dune burrow homes returning from their daily fishing excursion. Arrive at Phillip Island Parade Visitors Centre and learn about the life cycle of the little penguins and learn of the environmental and conservation initiatives in place to ensure the wildlife and vulnerable geology of Phillip Island remains protected.  As the sun goes down, head to the beach and watch as the Little Penguins battle the surf and make their way to their dune burrows. See the Little Penguins up close as they return to their nests to greet their families.

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Phillip Island - Penguins, Koalas & Wildlife

Sydney Heli Tours - 20min Flight (Sydney)

Adult Price: AUD 240.00
Child Price: AUD 240.00

This is the best way to see Sydney in all its glory. See full panoramic views of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Manly Cove and Sydney’s spectacular Harbour and city skyline. This tour will leave you breathless! Throughout your 20 minute flight your pilot will be providing you with expert commentary via voice activated headsets. The photo opportunities are once in a lifetime on this journey in the sky.

If your tour ends in Sydney, you must have post tour accommodation or a late departing flight. Ask us for details

Sydney Heli Tours  - 20min Flight

Uluru Barbecue Dinner (Ayers Rock)

Adult Price: AUD 195.00
Child Price: AUD 135.00

Enjoy a sparkling wine on arrival at this unique and exclusive dining experience with Uluru as your stunning backdrop. Enjoy wine and beer with a classic barbecue of beef steak, lamb sausages, skewered chicken and garlic prawns, as well as a selection of fresh salads and a tasty dessert. There’s even time for stargazing.

Uluru Barbecue Dinner

Uluru Scenic Flights (Uluru (Ayers Rock))

Adult: $145.00

Child: 145.00

A 20 minute, fixed wing scenic flight is a great way to take in the amazing landscape of Uluru. This small plane operator offer extended flights that include both Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

Uluru Scenic Flights

Blue Mountains & Australian Wildlife (J15) (Sydney)

Adult Price: AUD 135.00
Child Price: AUD  95.00

Discover the vast wonders of the Blue Mountains, a World Heritage-listed site spanning over one million hectares. Immerse yourself in the diverse landscape, from lush rainforests to untouched bushland and awe-inspiring cliffs. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Leura and then witness the magnificent Three Sisters rock formation up close at Echo Point. From there, embark on your personalized exploration of this remarkable region, creating your own unique adventure.

FIND OUT MORE
Blue Mountains & Australian Wildlife (J15)

Uluru Helicopter Scenic Flight (Uluru (Ayers Rock))

Adult: $315.00 AUD
Child: $315.00 AUD

Experience a unique view with a scenic helicopter flight over the Red Centre and see Uluru from the Air. You might choose the 15 minute flight to appreciate Uluru from the air or the recommended longer flight to witness Uluru as well as the extraordinary Kata Tjuta.

Uluru Helicopter Scenic Flight

Wintijiri Wiru After Dark Show (Uluru (Ayers Rock))

Adult: $190.00 AUD
Child: $95.00 AUD

Wintjiri Wiru, which in the local Pitjantjatjara language means ‘beautiful view out to the horizon’. This breathtaking sound and light show brings to life the ancient Mala story of the Anangu people, a story passed on for thousands of generations. With the use of ground-breaking technology, choreographed drones, lasers and projections illuminate the night sky. Wintjiri Wiru takes place at Ayers Rock Resort, in the spiritual heart of Australia and is an immersion into Anangu culture. The experience begins with a transfer from Resort hotels to a sustainably-built platform where you will take a seat in the intimate amphitheatre.

Drones, lights, traditional music, and Pitjantjatjara language will bring to life the Mala story under the desert sky. After the show, you will return to your hotel via coach transfer. Note: • Subject to availability and weather conditions permitting. • Tour content and timings are subject to change without notice. • Child age range is from 10 to 15 years. Not suitable for children 9 years and under. Credit: As custodians of the land, Anangu hold the Mala story from Kaltukatjara to Uluru. To share their story from Kaltukatjara to Uluru, RAMUS designed and produced an artistic platform using drones, light and sound to create an immersive storytelling experience.
Wintijiri Wiru After Dark Show

Sydney Heli Tours (30 mins) (Sydney)

Adult: $360.00 AUD
Child: $360.00 AUD

This is the best way to see Sydney in all its glory on an extended flight. See full panoramic views of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Manly Cove, Sydney’s spectacular Harbour and city skyline and as far north as Long Reef. This tour will leave you breathless! Throughout your 30 minute flight your pilot will be providing you with expert commentary via voice activated headsets. The photo opportunities are once in a lifetime on this journey in the sky.

Sydney Heli Tours (30 mins)

History & Donuts Walking Tour (Melbourne)

Adult: $87.00 AUD
Child: $87.00 AUD

Discover the sweeter side of Melbourne on Fit City Tour’s History and Donuts Walking Tour. This two-hour walking tour is best started on an empty stomach. The adventure begins at Federation Square. From there, you'll immerse yourself in the stunning laneway street art of Hosier Lane before stopping for the first coffee of the tour at a favourite laneway cafe. The tour continues to weave through city laneways sharing the story of Melbourne, its history and culture, while stopping off for donuts at some of Melbourne's most iconic donuts shops. After the second donut, you'll explore former city slums, and learn about the character of Melbourne – and the characters that made their name here. The tour finishes at State Library where you can stay on to explore one of Melbourne's finest buildings.

History & Donuts Walking Tour

Melbourne Skydeck (Melbourne)

Adult Price: AUD $28,00

Child Price: AUD $19.00

 

Experience the awe-inspiring 360 degree floor-to-ceiling views of Victoria's capital city at the Melbourne Skydeck, Eureka Tower. This viewing platform is the highest in the Southern Hemisphere!

Melbourne Skydeck

Trip Details

trip-details-whats-includedWhat's included

  • Specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
  • Local Specialists (Guides)
  • Centrally located premium hotels

trip-details-diningDining

  • • 12 Full Breakfasts
  • • 1 Lunch
  • • 1 Be My Guest Lunch
  • • 2 Dinners with Wine
  • • 1 Highlight Dinner
  • • 1 Farewell Dinner

trip-details-flight-infoFlight Information

  • Day 1: Flights to arrive prior to 12:00pm into Melbourne Airport

trip-details-what-to-bringWhat to Bring

  • • Comfortable walking shoes
  • • Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
  • • Water bottle
  • • Warm layers in cooler months
  • • Camera

trip-details-fitness-level-requirementsFitness Requirements

Itinerary Generating PDF...

image map

Is there such a thing as too much time in Melbourne? Arrive early before meeting your fellow adventure-seekers over a beverage or two.

  Hotel: Crowne Plaza Hotel Melbourne, 3 nights

  Included Meals: Dinner with Wine

Melbourne is known for its cool cafés – we recommend grabbing a coffee to fuel you through a walking tour exploring the city’s most eye-popping laneways. This afternoon, you decide. Perhaps a nature-based sojourn to Phillip Island to see penguins waddle from the ocean to the sand? We wouldn’t blame you for lingering and taking a deep dive into Melbourne’s culinary offerings. Ask us for tips on the hottest spots to drink and dine.

  Included Meals: Breakfast

If you’re still getting your Melbourne bearings, linger in town to explore boutiques, galleries, and eclectic suburbs. But if it’s time to venture further afield, you might want to sign up to discover the Great Ocean Road, a stretch of coastline that deserves its reputation as one of the most scenic touring routes in the world. Wherever you wander, be sure to take in a show at one of the city’s glorious theatres. We can assist with tickets.

  Included Meals: Breakfast

Spiritual, sacred and spectacular, the world’s largest rock monolith will give you goosebumps. In Australia’s Red Centre, Uluru has been home to the Anangu people for millennia. Their connection is palpable, as you’ll discover when you arrive at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, at sunset watching the shifting colours transform the desert with every last ray (sparkling wine essential).

  Hotel: Desert Gardens, Ayers Rock Resort, 2 nights

  Included Meals: Breakfast

If there’s one thing worth getting out of bed early for, it’s sunrise over Uluru. Incredibly, the Rock’s base caves are home to First Nations art that dates back tens of thousands of years. What an honour to glimpse it. The ochres and silvery greens of the NT outback follow you to Kata Tjuta, where Walpa Gorge humbles with its soaring cliffs. Wander through the tallest domes before yet another sparkling sunset (and sparkling wine).

  Included Meals: Breakfast

Ok, so the other reason to get up early is to view artist Bruce Munro’s installation Field of Light at dawn – 50,000 glowing spindles of light blanketing the desert. Clamber to the top of a sand dune to marvel in the morning unfolding over this very special part of the world. An Anangu artist will explain just what makes it so spiritual over an introduction to Western Desert art, introducing totems and symbols important to the region and represented in paintings and installations. Head to your next stop in sunny Cairns.

  Hotel: Hilton Hotel Cairns, 3 nights

  Included Meals: Breakfast

If you’re in the habit of getting up early now, you may wish to begin your day with an optional horizon-bending hot-air-balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands. Prefer to stay grounded? Sign up for a guided walk through the Daintree Rainforest, or surround yourself with nature riding the Scenic Railway to Kuranda returning on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway – perhaps with a side visit to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures for a wetlands cruise?

  Included Meals: Breakfast

The world’s largest living organism, the Great Barrier Reef, never fails to dazzle. Set out on a catamaran to explore a kaleidoscope of colour: over 1,500 species of fish, 215 different birds, 3,000 molluscs, six of the world’s seven marine turtle species, and 30 species of dolphins and whales are residents. Strap on a snorkel or visit an underwater observatory and semi-submersible craft to take in the menagerie without getting your hair wet. Tonight, celebrate the end of an incredible day at dinner on Cairns’ waterfront at Salt House for regional seafood plucked straight from the ocean, highlighting fresh, local ingredients, and prepared on their custom-built Argentinian wood fired grill.

  Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with Wine

Touch down in Australia’s largest city, with a harbour you could gaze at all day long. And all night. Freshen up and do just that when you join your Travel Director and travel mates on a Highlight Dinner cruise around Sydney Harbour against the backdrop of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

  Hotel: InterContinental Hotel Sydney, 4 nights

  Included Meals: Breakfast, Highlight Dinner

Bring your stamina: today is one of innumerable highlights. Go behind the scenes at the Sydney Opera House, discovering its architectural and performance secrets. If these sails could talk. One icon to another: The world’s most famous beach beckons this morning, with your chance to pad along the sand at Bondi with Sydney’s beautiful people. From Worked up an appetite? A local Surf Life Saver will take you into the members-only Bondi Surf Bathers' Life Saving Club. Learn about this historic club and gain an understanding of the important work that is done here saving lives on this famous beach. Next, a Be My Guest lunch with views overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

  Included Meals: Breakfast, Be My Guest Lunch

The hardest decision you have to make today: explore more of Sydney, or head to the Blue Mountains, 11,400 square kilometres of World Heritage listed wilderness, a place where sandstone escarpments appear to cleave off the edge of the Earth and waterfall-cooled valleys of rainforest slip dreamily from the pages of a fairytale.

  Included Meals: Breakfast

Now you’ve found your bearings in Sydney, why not linger around the harbour – perhaps it’s time to glimpse it from above on a Sydney BridgeClimb? This bird’s-eye view certainly puts things in perspective. Back at ground level, you’re in the heart of the Rocks, the city’s original colonial settlement and a place of cobbled alleys and private galleries. This evening, celebrate your holiday at a Farewell Dinner at Portside Restaurant at the Sydney Opera House. Talk about ending on a high.

  Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

What an epic journey, with so many destinations explored in less than two weeks. Now you just have to sort through the photos…

  Included Meals: Breakfast

Please note: This itinerary may be subject to change.


Australian Highlights

First Choice

13 Day Guided Vacation

Melbourne to Sydney

Picture Australia: the Coral Sea’s turquoise, the intense rainforest green, powdery white sand, the Red Centre’s ochre soil. These are your palette on this Melbourne to Sydney tour, spanning glittering cities and the outback, World Heritage Sites – Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Great Barrier Reef – and exclusive experiences. Whether Melbourne’s cafes or a barbeque, food is a focus, because this is Australia; eating well is in our DNA.

Highlights

Insider Knowledge

Melbourne has some of the world’s most vibrant street art – if you know where to look. Follow your local guide to discover eye-popping murals, hidden down back alleys.

Local Connection

Join an Anangu artist at the Maruku Arts Dot Painting class and paint your own piece of Aboriginal art as a memento of this experience.

Cultural Immersion

The Sydney Opera House is the stuff of postcards. You get to go behind the scenes with an expert who not only reveals architectural highlights, but also performance secrets.

Sustainable Footprints

Your visit to Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Kakadu and Litchfield national parks helps protect these incredible wilderness areas for future generations.

Wildlife & Nature

The only living organism you can see from outer space, the Great Barrier Reef is among the world’s most important, and biodiverse, ecosystems. Dive under the surface and see for yourself.

Accommodation

Your Guided Holiday includes a range of quality accommodation for your comfort.
The accommodation you will enjoy on this tour includes:

Optional Experiences

Please note, prices for Optional Experiences are subject to change.

To ensure your holiday is filled with memorable experiences, we have included a range of quality Optional Experiences for you to choose from and partake in, if you wish, during your holiday. The experiences can be booked on tour through your Travel Director.

Bridge Climb (Sydney)

Adult Price: AUD 344.00
Child Price: AUD 149.00

The Bridge Climb is a 3 1/2 hour guided journey to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It takes you along the outer arch of the Bridge on catwalks and ladders all the way to the summit, 134 metres above Sydney Harbour. Climbing in groups of up to 14 people, you’ll be led by one of BridgeClimb’s professional Climb Leaders on an adventure of the world’s most recognisable Bridge. Various tours available and prices from:
FITNESS REQUIREMENTS / NEED TO KNOW: A general level of fitness is required. Guests aged 75 years of age or older require a Certificate of Fitness signed by a medical professional. To download the certificate template and view all health and safety advice, please visit https://www.bridgeclimb.com/plan-your-visit/pre-climb-checklist.
Bridge Climb

The Rocks Pub Walk (Sydney)

Adult Price: From AUD 115.00

Tread in the footsteps of the convicts, larrikin gangs & locals of the past as you share a drink in four of Sydney's oldest pubs. Between watering holes, your guide will take you through the alleys & cobbled streets of The Rocks as they share the gossip, shouts and stories of Australia's first European settlement. Tour includes: A choice of a beer (285ml/10oz), house wine or soft drink at each pub. 2.5 hours in duration. Runs 2:30pm & 6.30pm daily. Commences from Harts Pub, Essex St & Gloucester Street, The Rocks.

The Rocks Pub Walk

Down Under Tours Daintree Dreaming With Ngadiku Walk (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD $330 Child Price: AUD $294

A cultural journey taking you from coast to rainforest experiencing natural beauty and ancient culture. Learn traditional hunting and gathering skills as you search for bush tucker of mud crabs, fish and mussels before tasting and sharing what you have caught and gathered. A short drive away is the lush rainforest of Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. Here you will experience the splendour of the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest. Enjoy a guided interpretive walk through the ancient rainforest and along the banks of the pristine waters of the Mossman Gorge. Lunch & damper included.
Down Under Tours Daintree Dreaming With Ngadiku Walk

Down Under Tours Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Railway (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD $199 Child PriceAUD $105

Join your Down Under Tours coach transfer to Smithfield Station. Here you join Skyrail and marvel at the World's Most Beautiful Rainforest Experience, including time at both Red Peak and Barron Falls stations, both with spectacular lookouts. On arrival in Kuranda, the Village is yours to explore. The vibrant and colourful Heritage markets take place daily. Your return to Cairns is aboard the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail. Winding around curves, across bridges and through hand-hewn tunnels, this amazing engineering feat is a tribute to our pioneers. Upon arrival at historic Freshwater Station, you will board your coach back to your accommodation.

Down Under Tours Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Railway

Down Under Tours: Kuranda, Scenic Skyrail & Hartley's Crocodile's (KHC) (Cairns)

Adult: $262.00 AUD
Child: 135.00 AUD

Enjoy this historical rail journey to Kuranda, with breathtaking views across the cane fields of Cairns, to the tropical rainforest of Kuranda. Upon arrival you will have around one hour to explore this fascinating village of colourful and interesting arts and crafts. At 11.30am, make your way directly to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to experience this iconic rainforest. After arriving at the Smithfield Skyrail Terminal, the coach will transfer you to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. Explore the park, including the unique eco experience of the Wetlands cruise through the ecologically significant Melaleuca wetlands; the domain of the saltwater crocodile. (Operates Daily)

Down Under Tours: Kuranda, Scenic Skyrail & Hartley's Crocodile's (KHC)

Great Adventures Introductory Dive (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD 184.00

For an underwater adventure to remember, experience an introductory dive! It’s fun and no experience is necessary to take a fully supervised introductory dive. Professional and experienced instructors will guide you through every aspect of your dive, allowing you to have a relaxed, enjoyable experience.

Great Adventures Introductory Dive

Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles (Melbourne)

Adult Price: AUD 189.00
Child Price: AUD 129.00

Take a breath and enjoy a relaxed and unhindered view of the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge all before lunch, beating the traditional afternoon rush. En route let us take you on a journey inland, reaching Port Campbell National Park to marvel at the iconic limestone stacks in the morning. Spend the afternoon with your experienced Driver Guide, meandering along the winding Great Ocean Road, taking in the spectacular coastal scenery, the Otway Rainforest and seaside townships.

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Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles

Hot Air Cairns - 40 Minute Flight (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD 440.00 + flight levy (Weekday), $495.00 + flight levy (Weekend)

Experience the fun & unique sensation of being in a Hot Air Balloon, flying gently high above the Atherton Tablelands, Australia. The balloon takes off from Mareeba on the Atherton Tablelands. Enjoy the picturesque landscape at dawn, floating in your Hot Air Balloon, time to really breathe in the wide-open spaces! We have Australia's largest fleet of Hot Air Balloons and a fun and highly trained crew to maximise the enjoyment of your balloon flight. It's just like a balloon festival, every day!

*Additional $30.00 insurance levy to be paid direct to Hot Air Cairns applies.

** If your tour ends in Cairns, you must have post tour accommodation or a late departing flight. Ask us for details

Hot Air Cairns - 40 Minute Flight

Nautilus Aviation (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD $199

Take to the sky on a 10-minute scenic flight. You will have the best seat to witness the iconic Great Barrier Reef from above.

Nautilus Aviation

Ochre Restaurant - 2 Course Dinner (Cairns)

Adult Price: AUD 65.00
Child Price: AUD 65.00

Ochre is an award-winning restaurant with a dedication to local produce, crafting native ingredients into modern exciting cuisine. The menu changes seasonally and is unique in its use of Australian native foods and regional produce.

Ochre Restaurant - 2 Course Dinner

Phillip Island - Penguins, Koalas & Wildlife (Melbourne)

Adult Price: AUD $199.00 

Child Price: AUD $139.00

If you’re curious about our native wildlife or just love animals, we’ve got you covered today! Start the day off with a visit to the Koala Conservation Reserve where you’ll join an experienced park Ranger and explore the tree top boardwalks to see the koalas up close in their natural habitat. Then there is the main attraction – The little penguins waddling up the sand to their dune burrow homes returning from their daily fishing excursion. Arrive at Phillip Island Parade Visitors Centre and learn about the life cycle of the little penguins and learn of the environmental and conservation initiatives in place to ensure the wildlife and vulnerable geology of Phillip Island remains protected.  As the sun goes down, head to the beach and watch as the Little Penguins battle the surf and make their way to their dune burrows. See the Little Penguins up close as they return to their nests to greet their families.

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Phillip Island - Penguins, Koalas & Wildlife

Sydney Heli Tours - 20min Flight (Sydney)

Adult Price: AUD 240.00
Child Price: AUD 240.00

This is the best way to see Sydney in all its glory. See full panoramic views of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Manly Cove and Sydney’s spectacular Harbour and city skyline. This tour will leave you breathless! Throughout your 20 minute flight your pilot will be providing you with expert commentary via voice activated headsets. The photo opportunities are once in a lifetime on this journey in the sky.

If your tour ends in Sydney, you must have post tour accommodation or a late departing flight. Ask us for details

Sydney Heli Tours  - 20min Flight

Uluru Barbecue Dinner (Ayers Rock)

Adult Price: AUD 195.00
Child Price: AUD 135.00

Enjoy a sparkling wine on arrival at this unique and exclusive dining experience with Uluru as your stunning backdrop. Enjoy wine and beer with a classic barbecue of beef steak, lamb sausages, skewered chicken and garlic prawns, as well as a selection of fresh salads and a tasty dessert. There’s even time for stargazing.

Uluru Barbecue Dinner

Uluru Scenic Flights (Uluru (Ayers Rock))

Adult: $145.00

Child: 145.00

A 20 minute, fixed wing scenic flight is a great way to take in the amazing landscape of Uluru. This small plane operator offer extended flights that include both Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

Uluru Scenic Flights

Blue Mountains & Australian Wildlife (J15) (Sydney)

Adult Price: AUD 135.00
Child Price: AUD  95.00

Discover the vast wonders of the Blue Mountains, a World Heritage-listed site spanning over one million hectares. Immerse yourself in the diverse landscape, from lush rainforests to untouched bushland and awe-inspiring cliffs. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Leura and then witness the magnificent Three Sisters rock formation up close at Echo Point. From there, embark on your personalized exploration of this remarkable region, creating your own unique adventure.

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Blue Mountains & Australian Wildlife (J15)

Uluru Helicopter Scenic Flight (Uluru (Ayers Rock))

Adult: $315.00 AUD
Child: $315.00 AUD

Experience a unique view with a scenic helicopter flight over the Red Centre and see Uluru from the Air. You might choose the 15 minute flight to appreciate Uluru from the air or the recommended longer flight to witness Uluru as well as the extraordinary Kata Tjuta.

Uluru Helicopter Scenic Flight

Wintijiri Wiru After Dark Show (Uluru (Ayers Rock))

Adult: $190.00 AUD
Child: $95.00 AUD

Wintjiri Wiru, which in the local Pitjantjatjara language means ‘beautiful view out to the horizon’. This breathtaking sound and light show brings to life the ancient Mala story of the Anangu people, a story passed on for thousands of generations. With the use of ground-breaking technology, choreographed drones, lasers and projections illuminate the night sky. Wintjiri Wiru takes place at Ayers Rock Resort, in the spiritual heart of Australia and is an immersion into Anangu culture. The experience begins with a transfer from Resort hotels to a sustainably-built platform where you will take a seat in the intimate amphitheatre.

Drones, lights, traditional music, and Pitjantjatjara language will bring to life the Mala story under the desert sky. After the show, you will return to your hotel via coach transfer. Note: • Subject to availability and weather conditions permitting. • Tour content and timings are subject to change without notice. • Child age range is from 10 to 15 years. Not suitable for children 9 years and under. Credit: As custodians of the land, Anangu hold the Mala story from Kaltukatjara to Uluru. To share their story from Kaltukatjara to Uluru, RAMUS designed and produced an artistic platform using drones, light and sound to create an immersive storytelling experience.
Wintijiri Wiru After Dark Show

Sydney Heli Tours (30 mins) (Sydney)

Adult: $360.00 AUD
Child: $360.00 AUD

This is the best way to see Sydney in all its glory on an extended flight. See full panoramic views of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Manly Cove, Sydney’s spectacular Harbour and city skyline and as far north as Long Reef. This tour will leave you breathless! Throughout your 30 minute flight your pilot will be providing you with expert commentary via voice activated headsets. The photo opportunities are once in a lifetime on this journey in the sky.

Sydney Heli Tours (30 mins)

History & Donuts Walking Tour (Melbourne)

Adult: $87.00 AUD
Child: $87.00 AUD

Discover the sweeter side of Melbourne on Fit City Tour’s History and Donuts Walking Tour. This two-hour walking tour is best started on an empty stomach. The adventure begins at Federation Square. From there, you'll immerse yourself in the stunning laneway street art of Hosier Lane before stopping for the first coffee of the tour at a favourite laneway cafe. The tour continues to weave through city laneways sharing the story of Melbourne, its history and culture, while stopping off for donuts at some of Melbourne's most iconic donuts shops. After the second donut, you'll explore former city slums, and learn about the character of Melbourne – and the characters that made their name here. The tour finishes at State Library where you can stay on to explore one of Melbourne's finest buildings.

History & Donuts Walking Tour

Melbourne Skydeck (Melbourne)

Adult Price: AUD $28,00

Child Price: AUD $19.00

 

Experience the awe-inspiring 360 degree floor-to-ceiling views of Victoria's capital city at the Melbourne Skydeck, Eureka Tower. This viewing platform is the highest in the Southern Hemisphere!

Melbourne Skydeck

Waterfall, Wetlands & Skyrail Adventure (Kuranda)

Adult: $299.00 AUD
Child: $225.00 AUD

Embark on a Make Travel Matter® guided Waterfall, Wetlands & Skyrail adventure from Cairns. Explore Cattana Wetlands' palm forest with your experienced driver guide and Barron Falls with a Djabugay cultural guide. Savour lunch at Skybury, then journey to Emerald Creek Ice Creamery. Finish the day on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway travelling over and through the World Heritage Listed rainforest.

Waterfall, Wetlands & Skyrail Adventure
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