Essential Australia: Melbourne, Cairns & Sydney Upgrade
Stress-free vacation in Australia w/ extra excursions
Prepare for an exhilarating journey into the heart of Australia's diverse beauty while embarking on a vacation through Melbourne, Cairns, and Sydney with extra tours in each city. Along with flights, private transfers, comfortable hotels, and more, this upgraded vacation includes: a Great Ocean Road Tour, Great Barrier Reef Cruise, and Blue Mountains tour.
What's Included
- Roundtrip economy class airfare into Melbourne (MEL), out of Sydney (SYD)
- Private airport transfers
- 3 nights in Melbourne at the Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne Southbank, or similar
- One-way economy class flight from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)
- 3 nights in Cairns at the Pacific Hotel Cairns, or similar
- One-way economy class flight from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)
- 3 nights in Sydney at the Vibe Hotel Sydney, or similar
- Sydney Opera House 1 Hour Guided Tour
PLUS!
- Full Day Great Ocean Road Tour
- Great Barrier Reef Cruise
- Full Day Blue Mountains Tour
Great Ways to Explore
Explore your artistic side at The National Gallery in Melbourne.
Experience the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
Visit the famous rock formations of the Twelve Apostles.
Gain insider knowledge with a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House.
Relax on any of Sydney's pristine beaches, including Bondi Beach.
Your journey begins in Melbourne, often referred to as Australia's cultural capital that thrives on artistic expression, culinary delights, and historical charm. Here you can explore vibrant lanes adorned with street art, savor exquisite cuisine at world-renowned restaurants, and explore nearby natural wonders like the Great Ocean Road with an included tour.
Next is Cairns, a tropical paradise known for its stunning natural wonders. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef and enjoy an included cruise, wander through lush rainforests, and shop for goods at the lively Cairns Night Markets.
Conclude your vacation in Sydney, perhaps the most iconic city in Australia. Explore the impressive Sydney Opera House with an included tour plus enjoy a full day tour of the Blue Mountains. Use your free time to marvel at the city's other wonders including the golden sands of Bondi Beach and the unique animals at Taronga Zoo.
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.
- Roundtrip economy class airfare into Melbourne (MEL), out of Sydney (SYD)
- Private airport transfers
- 3 nights in Melbourne at the Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne Southbank, or similar
- One-way economy class flight from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)
- 3 nights in Cairns at the Pacific Hotel Cairns, or similar
- One-way economy class flight from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)
- 3 nights in Sydney at the Vibe Hotel Sydney, or similar
- Sydney Opera House 1 Hour Guided Tour
PLUS!
- Full Day Great Ocean Road Tour
- Great Barrier Reef Cruise
- Full Day Blue Mountains Tour
Explore your artistic side at The National Gallery in Melbourne.
Experience the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
Visit the famous rock formations of the Twelve Apostles.
Gain insider knowledge with a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House.
Relax on any of Sydney's pristine beaches, including Bondi Beach.
Your journey begins in Melbourne, often referred to as Australia's cultural capital that thrives on artistic expression, culinary delights, and historical charm. Here you can explore vibrant lanes adorned with street art, savor exquisite cuisine at world-renowned restaurants, and explore nearby natural wonders like the Great Ocean Road with an included tour.
Next is Cairns, a tropical paradise known for its stunning natural wonders. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef and enjoy an included cruise, wander through lush rainforests, and shop for goods at the lively Cairns Night Markets.
Conclude your vacation in Sydney, perhaps the most iconic city in Australia. Explore the impressive Sydney Opera House with an included tour plus enjoy a full day tour of the Blue Mountains. Use your free time to marvel at the city's other wonders including the golden sands of Bondi Beach and the unique animals at Taronga Zoo.
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 Melbourne!
Once you arrive in Melbourne, you will be transported to your hotel where you can check-in, get ready, and begin your exploration. Get excited for your adventures on vacation in Australia!
Transfer from airport to hotel
Check-in - Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne Southbank
Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne Southbank is conveniently located near the lively Southbank area of Melbourne and just a brief stroll away from numerous drinking and dining options throughout the city.
Guests can take pleasure in the hotel's amenities, including a gym, indoor pool, and the hotel's on-site restaurant which serves everything from morning coffee to evening drinks, along with breakfast, sandwiches, and other delicious food.
Guest rooms have ample space and a private bathroom. Amenities include an in-room safe, desk, coffee maker, air-conditioning, iron/ironing board, a hair dryer, and television.
Essendon Fields Airport is closest to this hotel, and Southbank Promenade is just a 5-minute walk from the hotel. Additionally, Melbourne Zoo, Melbourne Aquarium, and the Royal Botanic Gardens are all within a 15-minute car ride from the hotel.
Day 2. Melbourne
Enjoy an exhilarating day with your included full-day Great Ocean Road tour!
Full Day Great Ocean Road Tour
Experience an unforgettable coastal journey in the company of a small group, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of this globally renowned route. Keep a keen eye out for the extraordinary wildlife that graces this region, from whales and playful dolphins to the charming echidnas and elusive bandicoots. Throughout this exhilarating adventure, your camera will be put to good use as there will be frequent stops to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Tour knowledgeable Oceania Guide will meet at your Melbourne hotel. The first destination is Apollo Bay, a serene coastal town nestled amidst gentle, undulating hills. Here, you'll find an array of inviting cafes and restaurants, ideal for enjoying a leisurely lunch (not included) while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Next, you'll venture into the heart of the Otway Ranges for a rejuvenating forest walk. The adventure culminates with a visit to the ancient rock formations of the Twelve Apostles and the mesmerizing Loch Ard Gorge, leaving you in awe of nature's artistry.
As the day winds to a close, your Oceania guide will accompany you back to the comfort of your Melbourne hotel, concluding a day filled with unforgettable memories and captivating scenery.
Day 3. Melbourne
Begin your day by taking a walk through Albert Park Lake to admire breathtaking views of the city. Afterwards, have a
delicious lunch at one of the nearby cafés or restaurants. Explore your
artistic side at The National Gallery of Victoria or catch a timeless
film at the Astor Theatre.
Spend some time perusing the stalls at Queen Victoria Market, one of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere. Purchase some souvenirs to remember your trip, and use the remaining time to explore more of the city and dine at a local restaurant.
Day 4. Melbourne - Cairns
Say goodbye to Melbourne and get ready for some of the most delectable seafood in Cairns. You'll be transferred from your hotel to the airport, enjoy a comfortable flight to Cairns, and then again be transferred to your hotel. Relax for the night and get ready for your first full day on vacation in Cairns tomorrow!
Transfer from hotel to airport
Fly to Cairns!
Transfer from airport to hotel
Check-in - Pacific Hotel Cairns
Step out on your balcony and look out over the beautiful Cairns Esplanade and Trinity Harbor from the Pacific Hotel in Cairns. The hotel is easily within walking distance of the main shopping area and the new attractions at the Esplanade, like waterfront boardwalks, movie theaters, and art galleries, as well as a lagoon and beach. Retreat to the serenity of your hotel after a day of adventure!
Rooms are spacious and offer air conditioning, a safe, coffee and tea making facilities, a work desk, ironing facilities, a refrigerator, and private bathrooms complete with a hair dryer and toiletries.Â
Day 5. Cairns
Get ready for a day filled with excitement, as you'll get to enjoy your included Great Barrier Reef Cruise today!
Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Begin with a convenient pickup directly from your hotel to start your memorable Full Day Cruise to Michaelmas Cay, situated within the pristine expanse of the Great Barrier Reef. You'll be aboard the exquisite sailing catamaran, Ocean Spirit, where you'll have the opportunity to enjoy snorkeling and/or diving amongst the kaleidoscope of vibrant marine life. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the captivating world of seabirds that inhabit this protected sanctuary.
After a scenic 2-hour voyage, you'll arrive at the captivating Michaelmas Cay. Delight in snorkeling within the cay's sheltered shallow waters, consider taking an introductory scuba dive amidst the fringing reefs (at an additional cost), or embark on a captivating journey aboard the Semi-submarine/glass-bottom boat. You can also witness an engaging fish feeding presentation, observe the rich birdlife, or simply unwind on the spacious decks of Ocean Spirit or relax on the pristine beach.
Day 6. Cairns
Enjoy another relaxing day in magnificent Cairns. Why not take a trip to Kuranda, a charming mountain village famous for its picturesque railway and rainforest cable-way? Immerse yourself in the luxuriant foliage, gushing waterfalls, towering mountains, and captivating local culture.
Later, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Cairns Esplanade and shop for souvenirs at the Cairns Night Markets.
Day 7. Cairns - Sydney
Today, you'll be transferred to the airport for a flight to Sydney, followed by another transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a relaxing night and have dinner at a local restaurant.
Transfer from hotel to airport
Fly to Sydney!
Transfer from airport to 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 8. Sydney
Today, you’ll get to enjoy your 1 hour guided tour of the Sydney Opera House! During your free time, take a walk along the Sydney Harbour and wander through The Rocks, which was Australia's initial European colony and has now become a historical center of preserved structures. Explore the cobbled ways of The Rocks packed with stores and eateries, where you can indulge in a delicious meal.
Alternatively, unleash your adventurous side by visiting the acclaimed Taronga Zoo or simply choose to relax on Bondi Beach.
Sydney Opera House 1 Hour Tour
Discover insider secrets and stories of the Opera House artists and performances, and step inside the iconic theaters and foyers that bring to life over 2,000 performances each year. Explore the building with a knowledgeable guides, learn about how Jørn Utzon’s vision came into existence against impossible odds, and so much more.
Day 9. Sydney
Experience a thrilling day of adventure with your included Blue Mountains Tour!
Full Day Blue Mountains Tour
The Blue Mountains National Park is a part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, encompassing seven national parks. This area is characterized by rugged sandstone formations, deep ravines, and ethereal blue eucalyptus forests.Your knowledgeable guide will take you off-the-beaten-path, unveiling hidden lookout spots and sharing insights about the history, plant life, and wildlife of this region.
The first destination is Calmsley Hill, a working farm that is also a habitat for Kangaroos, Emus, Wombats, and Koalas. Here, you can relish in morning tea and leisurely explore the surroundings.
Continue to ascend into the Blue Mountains via the highway, enjoying visits to a selection of picturesque vantage points overlooking the Jamison Valley. These locations are thoughtfully chosen to steer clear of the typical tourist crowds, affording guests a serene and unhurried experience.
Next, arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a secluded viewpoint that provides a unique perspective of the renowned Three Sisters rock formation. Here, your guide will delve into the legends surrounding this iconic formation, granting you ample time to capture stunning photographs.
Make your way to Hydro Majestic for lunch. You can choose to order directly from the menu at the Café or purchase lunch at the Pavillion.
The afternoon is dedicated to visiting various scenic lookouts. A visit to Govetts Leap lookout will offer panoramic views down the valley to the Grose Wilderness, with a spectacular 180-meter waterfall as its centerpiece. Pause at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, where you can savor a drink while enjoying sweeping vistas of Sydney in the distance. The final leg of the journey leads you down the Bells Line of Road, bringing you back to your hotel.
Day 10. Depart Sydney
Your incredible multi-city vacation in Australia has unfortunately come to an end. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to the airport and board your flight home, reminiscing on this bucket list vacation.
Transfer from hotel to airport
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.