Ready to dive into the adventure of a lifetime? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Australia is packed with unforgettable experiences that belong on every traveller’s bucket list. Whether you’re looking for grand events, mouth-watering foodie experiences, or once-in-a-lifetime adventures with wildlife, these 25 must-try experiences will make your holiday Down Under truly epic.
Five Events to Plan Your Trip Around
Vivid Sydney, Sydney
Vivid Sydney – the annual celebration of art, technology, and creativity in Sydney – takes place from 23 May to 14 June in 2025. Over 23 days in various locations across the city, you’ll be able to catch live performances, Instagram-worthy installations, and thought-provoking experiences featuring the works of various artists, musicians, and even chefs.
Australian Open, Melbourne
Only the most exciting tennis tournament in the Oceanic region, there’s no doubt that true tennis fans must make the pilgrimage to the yearly Melbourne Park event, which kickstarts the four Grand Slams each year. It’s still not too late to score your Australian Open tickets for the matches as the entire event goes on until 26 January!
Men’s Ashes, Perth
Cricket fans, you’ll love this one. For the first time in 43 years, Perth will host the Ashes opener at the Perth Stadium from 21 to 25 November, a delayed Test for the city which was supposed to host the fifth Test of Summer 2020-2021. Australia has won the past eight Ashes Tests out of Perth, so this First Test will definitely be one to watch.
TCS Sydney Marathon, Sydney
Recently recognised as the 7th member of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors, the Sydney Marathon takes runners on a spectacular journey through iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge. On 31 August, whether you’re running, walking, or pushing for a personal best, gather your friends and cross the finish line at the iconic Sydney Opera House.
Dark Mofo, Tasmania
Australia’s most renowned midwinter festival is returning with full force in 2025. Taking place from 5 to 15 June with a solstice swim on 21 June, Dark Mofo – organised by the Museum of Old and New Art in Hobart – promises extraordinary cultural experiences, performances, and winter feasting like no other.
Five Unique Food Experiences
Vertigo Brisbane, Queensland
Ever dreamed of dining 17 metres above the ground? Now’s your chance at Vertigo Brisbane – Australia’s first vertical restaurant, where seats are perched high above the Brisbane Powerhouse. Savour a specially curated menu from the renowned fine dining spot, Bar Alto, while soaking in breathtaking city views. After that, make your way down through the powerhouse or take the plunge with an exhilarating dropline experience.
Sounds of Silence, Northern Territory
Situated at Ayers Rock Resort, Sounds of Silence is known as Australia’s first dining-under-the-stars experience. Dine under the glittering outback sky to a didgeridoo performance and a bush tucker inspired menu crafted with native ingredients, all in the shadow of breathtaking Uluru. After the feast and performance, the tour of the southern night sky begins.
Coffin Bay Oyster Farm & Bay Tour, South Australia
Oyster lovers, listen up. With this experience, you’ll cruise along 16 kilometres of pristine waters and the glorious Coffin Bay coastline towards prime growing oyster beds where you can wade through and discover the beauty up close. If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot some pods of playful dolphins. The experience follows with you hopping on a boat for freshly shucked oysters with local drink pairings.
Truffle Hunting, Oberon, NSW
A well-loved culinary treasure by foodies, truffles are in abundance yet super elusive Down Under, especially during winter months. Join in on a truffle hunting experience with trained truffle dogs in Oberon, near the famous Blue Mountains, and get your hands deep in the ground to dig up your first truffle. Later, head back to your farm stay for some delightful truffle tasting.
Dining in the Dark
A gastronomical experience like no other, head to Dining in the Dark, Perth to unlock your senses and explore the full potential of your tastebuds over a surprise three-course meal where you’ll get to taste, smell, and feel your feast with a partner. Dining in the Dark is now running across several cities, from Hobart to Perth and Sydney.
Five Stays You’ll Be Talking About For Years
Wukalina Walk, Tasmania
Journey into the rich heritage of the land and sea with Torres Strait Islander guides who have deep Ancestral ties to Country. Join an intimate four-day, three-night tour and immerse yourself in cultural traditions, from bush tucker to traditional foods. Each evening, relax in the carefully crafted Krakani Lumi (resting place), featuring domed-ceiling huts and a repurposed lightkeeper’s cottage at the northern tip of Larapuna (Bay of Fires).
Thorngrove Manor Hotel, South Australia
Make your dream of staying in a fairytale-like castle come true at Thorngrove Manor Hotel, located just outside of Adelaide. A boutique accommodation with elegantly decorated interiors and perfectly manicured gardens, this hotel is often lauded as one of the world’s most prestigious stays for good reason.
Desert Cave Hotel, South Australia
Should you be visiting the Coober Pedy, the Opal Capital of the World, make sure to stay a night or two in the only International underground hotel in the world: Desert Cave Hotel. To make your experience even more authentic, request for ‘underground’ accommodation and explore the hotel’s own opal interpretative centre, underground bar, and underground restaurant.
Reefsuites, Queensland
All marine enthusiasts who dream of front row seats to the incredible underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef should stay at Reefsuites, Australia’s first underwater accommodation. Indulge in proper rest with your meals provided for, and opt-ins such as scuba diving and submarine tours.
Wollemi Cabins Secret Treehouse, New South Wales
Experiencing the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains is a must for nature lovers. Wollemi Forest’s best-kept secret is the Treehouse – an artfully designed cabin nestled high among the treetops. Boasting glass-to-ceiling windows and quirky wooden interiors, the Secret Treehouse extends a fully immersive nature experience, only an hour and a half outside of Sydney.
Five Ultimate Adventures in the Great Outdoors
Uluru, Northern Territory
Rising 348 metres above the vast desert landscape, Uluru‘s awe-inspiring rock formations are truly a sight to behold. Whether you’re witnessing the rock formations change colours at dusk on a helicopter ride, or waking up to the red desert sands at Longitude 131, Uluru is the perfect road trip destination, passing by the Red Centre Way loop from Alice Springs.
Fraser Island / K’gari, Queensland
Stretching along the length of this stunning island, Fraser Island‘s 75 Mile Beach is the world’s only place where a rainforest flourishes on a sand dune. It offers the ideal path for exploring at your own pace, on a guided tour, or through an exciting four-wheel-drive adventure with friends. The best part? It is only 30 minutes by ferry from Brisbane.
Horizon Falls, Western Australia
Hidden within the Kimberley region at Talbot Bay in the Buccaneer Archipelago lies the breathtaking Horizontal Falls. Hailed by David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world,” this remarkable phenomenon captivates with its beauty and mystery. Embark on a day cruise to explore the scenic surroundings, or take to the skies for an aerial view of the rushing tides and rugged cliffs.
Kuku Yalanji Country, North Queensland
Just north of Cairns, discover the rare opportunity to experience two World Heritage Sites in one adventure. Journey through the ancient Daintree Rainforest with Aboriginal guides from Walkabout Cultural Adventures, immersing yourself in its rich history and natural beauty. Then, explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef – the world’s largest coral ecosystem – on a guided dive that reveals an Underwater Museum like no other.
Great Ocean Road, Victoria
While in Victoria, take a scenic drive along the iconic 243 kilometre Great Ocean Road, where you can catch glimpses of sleepy koalas nestled in the treetops and marvel at the breathtaking views of the 12 Apostles, rugged cliffs, and rolling waves. To make the most of your road trip, stay at the Great Ocean Road Resort, perfectly situated amidst stunning beaches and lush bushland.
Five Exhilarating Animal Encounters in Nature
Shark Cage Diving, South Australia
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness the majestic Great Whites up close in the world’s first Aqua Sub. For the ultimate shark sighting, get suited up and choose your cage experience, with no diver qualification or previous experience required. Get the cameras ready for some great photo opportunities!
Camping at Lucky Bay, Esperance
Set up your camp at Esperance’s Lucky Bay and wake up to the sunrise along the vast coastline and watch wild kangaroos sunbathing across the pristine white beaches. The shimmering turquoise waters also offer a fantastic opportunity to spot other incredible wildlife, including native birds.
Jumping Crocodile Cruise, Northern Territory
Get up close and personal with these amazing creatures on the Adelaide River, just an hour’s drive from Darwin. Join one of the daily guided tours to witness crocodiles leaping out of the water for food – an unforgettable sight in this wildlife-rich river, home to an estimated four crocs per square kilometre!
Whale Watching in Sydney
Tick whale watching off your bucket list with a thrilling three-hour discovery cruise, just a short 15-minute ferry ride away. Enjoy uninterrupted views of these majestic gentle giants from the comfort of air-conditioned cabins with expansive windows, or soak up the experience from spacious indoor and outdoor seating areas.
The Maria Island Walk, Tasmania
Experience true adventure on Tasmania’s east coast, where you’ll encounter photogenic wombats, kangaroos, birds, and the elusive Tasmanian padymelons. Set out on a guided three- or four-day walk, immersing yourself in the region’s natural beauty while spotting rare wildlife and enjoying stunning landscapes from sunrise to sunset. Then, unwind at exclusive wilderness camps and the heritage-listed Bernacchi House for a restful night’s stay.
Hungry for more? Head here to discover other exciting attractions in Australia.
Featured image: Tourism Australia
