Discover the Lands Down Under: Sydney to Queenstown
Eye-widening wonders
This level of beauty is well worth the flight! Get ready to explore stunning natural wonders, vibrant cities, and interesting hot-spots, like the Hobbiton movie set and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Experience Sydney, Melbourne, and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, then fly to Auckland, Rotorua, Milford Sound, and Queenstown in New Zealand! Pack your bags and prepare for adventure.
You can find safety advice and alerts for Australia travel here.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Sydney (SYD), out of Queenstown (ZQN)
- All airport transfers
- 2 nights in Sydney at the Vibe Hotel or similar
- Half-day guided panoramic tour of Sydney & Bondi Beach
- One-way economy class flight from Sydney (SYD) to Cairns (CNS)
- 2 nights in Cairns at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel or similar
- Catamaran cruise on the Great Barrier Reef to Michaelmas Cay - includes snorkeling and lunch
- One-way economy class flight from Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL)
- 2 nights in Melbourne at the Clarion Suites Gateway Hotel or similar
- Melbourne city tour (half-day)
- One-way economy class flight from Melbourne (MEL) to Auckland (AKL)
- 2 nights in Auckland at the Crowne Plaza Hotel or similar
- Auckland city tour with harbor cruise
- Transfer from Auckland to Rotorua
- Visit to Matamata with tour of Hobbiton movie sets and lunch
- Waitomo Glowworm Cave tour
- 2 nights in Rotorua at the Rydges Hotel or similar
- Tour to Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley with visit to Te Puia (half-day)
- One-way economy class flight from Rotorua (ROT) to Queenstown (ZQN)
- 2 nights in Queenstown at the Heritage Hotel or similar
- Milford Sound Cruise with lunch
- Breakfast daily and 3 lunches
Helpful links for travel to New Zealand:
Great Ways to Explore
-
Go snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef on a sailing excursion to Michaelmas Cay.
- Check out Bondi Beach during a fun tour of Sydney!
-
Feel your jaw drop as you float through Milford Sound on a lunch cruise.
-
Immerse yourself in Melbourne's cool cafe culture! Explore tiny streets lined with coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques.
-
Experience geothermal wonders and traditional Maori culture in Rotorua!
Australia and New Zealand await! Fly "down under" and discover a wonderland of breathtaking beauty, legendary culture, and dazzling cities. This incredible vacation package takes you all the way from Sydney, Australia to Queenstown, New Zealand - with stops and stays in Cairns, Melbourne, Auckland, Rotorua, and more! Enjoy panoramic city tours, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, visit the Hobbiton movie set, gawk at the twinkling Waitomo Glowworm Caves, experience geothermal geysers, cruise atop Milford Sound, and immerse yourself in traditional Maori culture. All of that in one trip!? Yes, and more!
Start out in the sunny city of Sydney, Australia. Get to know the beloved streets of Sydney on a city tour, on which you'll make a special stop at famous Bondi Beach! Soak up some sun - and surf culture! From Sydney, you'll fly to Cairns, known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef! Enjoy a once in a lifetime catamaran cruise to Michaelmas Cay and feel your eyes widen as colorful coral and tropical fish come into sight. Snorkeling is included, so feel free to see fish, rays, and sea turtles up-close! Your last stop in Australia will be the artsy city of Melbourne. Discover Melbourne's famous arcades, cafes, and street art during an included city tour!
Next stop: New Zealand! Start your New Zealand adventure in Auckland, where you'll enjoy an introductory city tour and harbor cruise - the perfect way to take awesome pictures of the skyline! You'll then be transferred from Auckland to Rotorua. On the way, enjoy two special excursions: a visit to the Hobbiton movie set, as well as a tour of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves! Upon arrival in Rotorua, explore otherworldly geothermal landscapes, and become immersed in local Maori culture. Last but not least, you'll fly to Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital! Embark on an unforgettable cruise on Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most scenic sites, located in Fiordland National Park.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Sydney (SYD), out of Queenstown (ZQN)
- All airport transfers
- 2 nights in Sydney at the Vibe Hotel or similar
- Half-day guided panoramic tour of Sydney & Bondi Beach
- One-way economy class flight from Sydney (SYD) to Cairns (CNS)
- 2 nights in Cairns at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel or similar
- Catamaran cruise on the Great Barrier Reef to Michaelmas Cay - includes snorkeling and lunch
- One-way economy class flight from Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL)
- 2 nights in Melbourne at the Clarion Suites Gateway Hotel or similar
- Melbourne city tour (half-day)
- One-way economy class flight from Melbourne (MEL) to Auckland (AKL)
- 2 nights in Auckland at the Crowne Plaza Hotel or similar
- Auckland city tour with harbor cruise
- Transfer from Auckland to Rotorua
- Visit to Matamata with tour of Hobbiton movie sets and lunch
- Waitomo Glowworm Cave tour
- 2 nights in Rotorua at the Rydges Hotel or similar
- Tour to Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley with visit to Te Puia (half-day)
- One-way economy class flight from Rotorua (ROT) to Queenstown (ZQN)
- 2 nights in Queenstown at the Heritage Hotel or similar
- Milford Sound Cruise with lunch
- Breakfast daily and 3 lunches
Helpful links for travel to New Zealand:
-
Go snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef on a sailing excursion to Michaelmas Cay.
- Check out Bondi Beach during a fun tour of Sydney!
-
Feel your jaw drop as you float through Milford Sound on a lunch cruise.
-
Immerse yourself in Melbourne's cool cafe culture! Explore tiny streets lined with coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques.
-
Experience geothermal wonders and traditional Maori culture in Rotorua!
Australia and New Zealand await! Fly "down under" and discover a wonderland of breathtaking beauty, legendary culture, and dazzling cities. This incredible vacation package takes you all the way from Sydney, Australia to Queenstown, New Zealand - with stops and stays in Cairns, Melbourne, Auckland, Rotorua, and more! Enjoy panoramic city tours, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, visit the Hobbiton movie set, gawk at the twinkling Waitomo Glowworm Caves, experience geothermal geysers, cruise atop Milford Sound, and immerse yourself in traditional Maori culture. All of that in one trip!? Yes, and more!
Start out in the sunny city of Sydney, Australia. Get to know the beloved streets of Sydney on a city tour, on which you'll make a special stop at famous Bondi Beach! Soak up some sun - and surf culture! From Sydney, you'll fly to Cairns, known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef! Enjoy a once in a lifetime catamaran cruise to Michaelmas Cay and feel your eyes widen as colorful coral and tropical fish come into sight. Snorkeling is included, so feel free to see fish, rays, and sea turtles up-close! Your last stop in Australia will be the artsy city of Melbourne. Discover Melbourne's famous arcades, cafes, and street art during an included city tour!
Next stop: New Zealand! Start your New Zealand adventure in Auckland, where you'll enjoy an introductory city tour and harbor cruise - the perfect way to take awesome pictures of the skyline! You'll then be transferred from Auckland to Rotorua. On the way, enjoy two special excursions: a visit to the Hobbiton movie set, as well as a tour of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves! Upon arrival in Rotorua, explore otherworldly geothermal landscapes, and become immersed in local Maori culture. Last but not least, you'll fly to Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital! Embark on an unforgettable cruise on Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most scenic sites, located in Fiordland National Park.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Sydney!
Welcome to the land down under! Upon arrival, enjoy a comfortable transfer to your first accommodation. Once you're all settled, head out and explore the beautiful city of Sydney on your own.
Transfer to Sydney hotel
Check-in - Vibe Hotel Sydney
Vibe Hotel Sydney is conveniently located near Hyde Park, World Square, and the Queen Victoria Building. Guests can expect well-appointed rooms that include free WiFi, television, complimentary toiletries, and coffee/tea making facilities. There is an onsite restaurant open for all-day dining, featuring a great wine list and delicious menu. The hotel also features a pool, sauna, and fitness center. Vibe Hotel Sydney is about a 5 minute walk from Oxford Street, where the city comes alive day and night!
Day 2. Sydney
Today, you'll be taken on a half-day city tour! Discover Sydney through this panoramic sightseeing tour that includes Sydney Opera House & Sydney Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, The Rocks, Oxford Street, and more!
Half-day guided panoramic tour of Sydney w/ Bondi Beach
Get swept up in the action of this half-day tour of magnificent Sydney! You'll be taken through the historic Rocks area and learn about its convict history. You'll also experience stunning views of the world-famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge! Enjoy the ride as you're taken through the heart of the city, where the Queen Victoria Building is home to fantastic shopping. Oxford Street is a trendy new district in Sydney that you'll pass through! From there, you'll be taken to world-renowned Bondi Beach! Here, you'll have time to enjoy a stroll along the shoreline as you absorb the stunning scenery around you. Return to the city center via Mrs. Macquarie's Chair for one final look at the harbour, with a view you won't soon forget!
Day 3. Sydney - Cairns
Say "see ya" to sunny Sydney. Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to colorful Cairns! Known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is filled with stunning seascapes and laid-back beach vibes.
After being transferred to your Cairns hotel, settle in and explore on your own!Â
Transfer to Sydney airport
Fly to Cairns!
Transfer to Cairns hotel
Check-in - DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
Become immersed in peace and luxury at this rainforest oasis! Boasting a unique central rainforest atrium, DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns offers modern comforts in a stylish atmosphere. Check-in with the 24-hour reception team, then head up to your room. Find free WiFi, crisp air conditioning, flat-screen TV, plush bedding, and much more!
Once you're all settled in, unpack your swimsuit and make a splash in the sparkling outdoor pool! Take a stroll through the lush garden, then treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant. Too cozy to leave your room? Order room service 24/7! Don't worry about eating too much; you can always work it off in the fitness center.
Day 4. Cairns
Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Spend the day sailing through the Great Barrier Reef on an amazing catamaran cruise. Enjoy stunning views, snorkeling, tropical cuisine, and more!
Catamaran Cruise on the Great Barrier Reef to Michaelmas Cay - includes snorkeling and lunch
Great Barrier Reef, here you come! Set sail on a catamaran cruise to Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef. This stunning national park also serves as a sanctuary for migratory seabirds! Rich with a myriad of marine life, you can expect to see brightly colored fish and green sea turtles swimming through the waters of this endless coral reef. Enjoy an unforgettable day of tropical cuisine, snorkeling, and wildlife exploration!Â
Day 5. Cairns - Melbourne
Next stop: Melbourne! Hop on a quick flight to Australia's "most European" city and enjoy the comfort of round-trip airport/hotel transfers. Â
Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and get settled. Spend the rest of the day exploring Melbourne's vibrant streets filled with street art, galleries, and coffee shops!Â
Transfer to Cairns hotel
Fly to Melbourne!
Transfer to Melbourne hotel
Check-in - Clarion Suites Gateway
Located on the banks of the Yarra River, Clarion Suites Gateway offers comfortable accommodations and extensive amenities. Check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then settle into your room. Equipped with a kitchenette, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, WiFi access, and more, the rooms at this elegant hotel will make you feel right at home.
Once you're all settled in, unpack your swimsuit and take a refreshing dip in the indoor pool. When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal at Williams Bar & Cafe! With the very best of Melbourne at your fingertips, this hotel is a relaxing retreat in the heart of the city.
Day 6. Melbourne
A half-day city tour will take you through some of Melbourne's best-known sights including St. Patrick's Cathedral, St. Kilda Beach, Albert Park Lake, and more. Your tour ends with a visit to Eureka Tower and its Skydeck!
Half-day Melbourne City Tour w/ Eureka Skydeck
Get ready to be swept up in the incredible sights and sounds of Melbourne! This half-day tour begins with visits to Federation Square and the world-famous Melbourne sports precinct. You'll see St. Patrick's Cathedral, Albert Park Lake (Formula 1), and then head over to St Kilda Beach.
A visit to Melbourne would not be complete without seeing it from above at Eureka Skydeck! Your tour concludes with a visit to Eureka Tower. Take the super-speedy elevator to Skydeck 88 for absolutely unbelievable views of Melbourne! Your tour includes a driver/guide, motorcoach transportation, pick up from your hotel, entry fee to Eureka Skydeck, and more.
Day 7. Melbourne, AU - Auckland, NZ
Get ready to tackle New Zealand! Wave goodbye to Australia and enjoy a comfortable transfer to the airport.
Upon arrival in Auckland, you will be transferred to your hotel. Check in, freshen up, and begin exploring! Feel free to ask for a restaurant recommendation at your hotel to help get your trip kicked off on the right foot.
Transfer to Melbourne airport
Fly to Auckland!
Transfer to Auckland hotel
Check-in - Crowne Plaza Auckland
Crowne Plaza Auckland is nestled in the heart of Auckland's Central Business District. Guests can expect well-appointed rooms with free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, television, and more. Aria Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and features local produce and a drink menu. Aria Bar is open all day for coffee, cocktails, and light bites. The city's Sky Tower is located right across the street, with other top attractions within walking distance.
Day 8. Auckland
Rise and shine! After breakfast, you'll be introduced to the city of Auckland with an included sightseeing tour. Snap pictures of Auckland's most iconic attractions, then relax on a lovely harbor cruise!Â
Spend the afternoon at leisure! Revisit interesting sites from the tour, or discover new hot spots.
Auckland City Tour w/ Harbor Cruise (Half-Day)
Experience a fascinating sightseeing tour followed by a cruise around Hauraki Gulf Harbor with a local guide! See some of Auckland's top attractions, like Quay Street, Waitemata Harbor, and buzzing Queen Street. Snap photos of the Auckland Harbor Bridge, then stroll through Auckland Domain - the city's oldest park!
After returning to downtown Auckland, you'll hop aboard a boat for your cruise!
Day 9. Auckland - Rotorua
Wave goodbye to Auckland! After breakfast, you will begin your journey to Rotorua. Along the way, you'll stop at Matamata, where you'll tour through the magical Hobbiton Movie Set on picturesque farmland.
Next, you'll enjoy a tour through the Waitomo Caves! Feel your eyes widen as you take a boat ride through the twinkling glowworm grotto.
After an unforgettable day, you'll check into your Rotorua hotel. Treat yourself to a nice dinner, then get some rest for another full day tomorrow!
Transfer from Auckland to Rotorua
Sightseeing along the way!
Check-in - Rydges Rotorua
Rydges Rotorua features stunning views over the city and the nearby Arawa Rasecourse. Guest rooms are equipped with free WiFi, coffee/tea making facilities, and television. Atrium Restaurant features modern and classic cuisine. Sip a cocktail at Mezz Bar, head to the fitness center for a workout, or walk to the nearby shops and cafes!
Visit to Matamata with tour of Hobbiton movie sets
Discover the real Middle-earth on the most picturesque private farmland! Located near Matamata in the North Island of New Zealand is the Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. Take a fascinating two-hour guided tour through the movie sets as you experience the magic for yourself!
Day 10. Rotorua
Fuel up with a delicious breakfast, then explore the diverse land of Rotorua! Immerse yourself in Maori culture and visit Te Puia Geothermal Valley, home to geysers, bubbling mud pools, and more. Then, check out the Agrodome and Rainbow Springs Nature Park! Today's tour will leave you excited and enlightened.
Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Explore nearby natural sights and treat yourself to a delicious dinner.
Tour to Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley w/ visit to Te Puia (half-day)
This morning you will be collected from your hotel by Seat-in-Coach bus for your half-day tour! The first stop is Te Puia, New Zealand’s living Maori culture center. Te Puia is located in Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley and features more than 500 geothermal wonders, including the exhilarating Pohutu Geyser and bubbling mud pools!
Learn about the rich and vibrant history and traditions of the Maori tribe through a guided tour. Next, drive to the Agrodome, home of the farm show, consisting of gifted and talented animals. Join the farm tour to interactively explore a real farm; feed the animals and visit the nursery! Then, visit New Zealand’s wildlife and natural scenery at Rainbow Springs Nature Park, where you can get up close to all kinds of native flora and fauna including famous kiwi, a flightless native bird.
Day 11. Rotorua - Queenstown
This morning, you'll be transferred to the airport for a quick flight to Queenstown! Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your next accommodation.
Queenstown is a popular hub for hikers, climbers, and skiers. Built around Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown offers some of the most beautiful views in New Zealand!
Once you're all checked in and settled, spend the afternoon exploring on your own.
Transfer to Rotorua airport
Fly to Queenstown!
Transfer to Queenstown hotel
Check-in - Heritage Queenstown
Heritage Queenstown features beautiful views of the surrounding area, including Lake Wakatipu. Guests will enjoy comfortable rooms stocked with fluffy bathrobes, free WiFi, television, and more. Mackenzies Restaurant and Bar serves dishes that feature fresh, local ingredients. Guests can dine outside on the balcony or by the fire, depending upon the season. The hotel also features a pool, sauna, jacuzzi, and gym. Heritage Queenstown is located just a 5 minute drive from the center of town.
Day 12. Queenstown
Grab your camera and get ready to experience New Zealand's world-famous fjord: Milford Sound! Depart Queenstown and travel along the stunning shores of Lake Wakatipu, through southern farmland, to Lake Te Anau.
Enter the one and only Fiordland National Park and feast your eyes on jaw-dropping beauty. Upon arrival at Milford Sound, hop aboard a boat and set off on a scenic cruise! Sail out to the Tasman Sea as you glide past glacier-scarred rock walls and picturesque waterfalls. Be on the lookout for wildlife, like seals and dolphins!
After an incredible day of scenery and wildlife, you'll return to Queenstown for a relaxing evening. Treat yourself to a lovely dinner!
Day 13. Depart New Zealand
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and wave goodbye to beautiful New Zealand. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your journey home.
Spend your flight replaying warm memories and dreaming about your next adventure!