best australia travel guide book

Australia Travel Guide

This Australia Travel Guide aims to provide you with simple and stress-free travel planning information and inspiration for planning a trip to Australia.

On this regularly updated page you will find links to useful posts on The Trusted Traveller, budget information, details on types of accommodation available, information on getting around the country and more useful links to resources around the web.

Quick Facts

Capital: Canberra

Language: English

Currency:  $ Australian Dollars which is made up of 100 cents. Coins come in 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 denominations and notes in $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 denominations.

Electricity:  230 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs with two or three flat pins are standard. Outlets for 110 volts for small appliances can be found in most hotels.

Travel Tips

Australia is made up of eight states and territories; Australian Capital Territory (ACT), New South Wales (NSW), Northern Territory (NT), Queensland (QLD), South Australia (SA), Tasmania (TAS), Victoria (VIC) and Western Australia (WA).

It’s coastline covers almost 60,000 kilometres and is surrounded by the Arafura and Timor Seas to the north, the Coral and Tasman Seas of the South Pacific to the east, the Southern Ocean to the south, and the Indian Ocean to the west.

Exploring Australia means you will likely encounter a wide variety of landscapes. From its pristine beaches, densely populated cities, lush rainforest, rugged mountains and deep red outback; there aren’t many countries that offer such a richly eclectic landscape.

Because Australia is so big, the climate can vary depending on which part of the country you are in and what time of the year it is.

Australia is plagued with extreme weather with 40ºc + temperatures not uncommon in the depths of summers and lows of well below 0ºc in winter. Cyclones and flooding cause havoc up north while bushfires are sadly common in the dry south.

The country is split in two climatic zones: the tropical zone (the north above the Tropic of Capricorn) and the temperate zone (everything south of the Tropic of Capricorn). The tropical zone has two distinct seasons, ‘wet’ (summer) and ‘dry’ (winter), while the temperate zone has all four distinct seasons.

Best Time to Visit

Australia is really an all year-round destination purely because of it’s size.

Spring to summer (October to March) are the most popular times because the majority of the country is warm with hot days and mild nights. Head south for dry heat and try to avoid the tropical north from December to February as it is the wet season with lots of rain, storms and sticky humid conditions.

Autumn to winter (April to September) is a very pleasant time of year to explore the northern and central parts of Australia because of clear warm days and cool nights. You’ll find a little more rain in the south of the country but on average you’ll still get more sunshine. It does snow during the winter months but this is totally confined to the mountains in the south east of the country.

It is always recommend to have a mixture of cash and bank/credit card with you when you travel anywhere in the world and this is no exception in Australia.

ATM’s are available in all cities and towns across the country and credit cards accepted widely too. The exception to this would be in some very small and remote outback towns where it is recommended to have plenty of cash on hand.

Getting There

A large number of major and budget airlines fly direct to capital cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane from New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, Asia and parts of the US and the Middle East. If you are travelling from further afield, you’ll easily be able to find connecting flights through major hubs in Asia, the Middle East and west coast USA.

Remember, Australia a long way from most other parts of the world. It takes almost 20+ hours (with a short stopover) to get from the UK and Europe, and 14+ hours from the US. Asia is a little closer with Singapore and Bangkok about 8 hours away.

I use and recommend Expedia for researching and booking flights all around the world.

Getting Around

Australia is a big country. Bigger than most people actually realise. To give you an idea, if you were to drive from Sydney on the east coast to Perth on the west coast it would take you something like 40 hours without stopping. That is 4,000 kilometres! The same route by air would take you 4 hours.

If you are wanting to cover as much of the country as possible in a short time then flying will be the most efficient method of getting around but it will likely cost you a bit too. While Australia does have budget airlines, they don’t offer the crazy low prices quite like other parts of the world so a bit of research and planning is required to do this on the cheap.

Australia’s major air carrier is Qantas who service every capital city and major rural hub. Catching up with Qantas on popularity is the once budget airline Virgin Australia. They fly between all capital cities and a few of the major hubs as well and offer pricing that is comparative to Qantas, sometimes a little cheaper.

Australia’s budget airlines are Jetstar (part of Qantas) and TigerAir. They both offer lower fares with a budget service, so no meals and you pay extra for carry-on luggage, extra leg-room and entertainment. If your flying regional then it will likely be with REX or one of the many other small regional airlines specific to each region.

If you have a bit more time to spare, Australia is a great country to explore slowly by road, whether it be in a car, van or caravan.

Australia has branches of all the worlds major car hire companies with pick up locations in airports, city centres and some regional centres. Most will offer vehicles in a range of sizes to suit your particular needs.

For longer stays it might be worth buying a used vehicle and then selling it when you leave. Cars, vans, caravans and campervans can all be purchased for as little as a few thousand dollars and sold a few months later to another traveller for about the same price ensuring you don’t really loose any money from it. Gumtree and hostel notice boards are good places to find and later sell, these vehicles.

I use and recommend Hertz for researching and booking car hire all around the world.

Greyhound have an extensive network of buses that cover major cities and tourist hubs the states of New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Northern Territory.

In Western Australia there is TransWA which operates a network of road coaches throughout the state helping you get from Perth to some of the more remote areas of the state.

And in Tasmania Tassielink Transit operate the bus network offering regular route services  across Tasmania that includes cities, regional areas and access to bushwalks.

I use and recommend BusBud when comparing and booking buses all around the world.

Australia hasn’t got any where near as good a rail system as regions like Europe and Asia however if you are a rail enthusiast then you will find two of the worlds most iconic rail journey’s running across the country.

The Ghan runs through the Red Centre from Adelaide to Darwin and The Indian Pacific from Adelaide to Perth. Both offer options for those on budget (still not as cheap as other forms of transport) to those looking for the ultimate in rail travel luxury. Each journey takes a few days to complete with short stops along the way.

Where to Stay

Australia caters for everyone when it comes to accommodation. Here is a list of the types of accommodation you’ll find.

• Camping/Caravans/Cabins – Most National Parks have at least one bush campsite and every second or third town has a holiday park with campsites, caravans and cabins available. Free camping is also available in some areas.
• Hostels – Take your pick from the hundreds of private and chain hostels located in major cities and popular towns around the country. Accommodation in hostels ranges from multi-bed dorm rooms to private single, double and family rooms, with or without shared facilities.

• Budget Motels/Hotels – This type of accommodation is quite popular in Australia and you’ll find at least one or two budget motels/hotels in just about ever town in the country. Most will be clean and functional with private facilities and basic amenities.
• Hotels/Apartments – Just about ever chain hotel brand in the world is represented in Australia’s capital cities and other major towns. The good thing about this type of accommodation is in most cases you know what you are going to get, a clean, comfortable and modern room with a decent array of facilities in the room and on the property. Apartments are great for longer stays as they allow you a bit more space and the option to self cater.

I use and recommend  Booking.com for researching and booking hostel, motel, hotel, apartment and resort accommodation around the world, including Australia.

• Luxury Hotels & Resorts – Every capital city and popular tourist area in Australia has its share of 5 star properties, some of which have been named in top lists of accommodations around the world.

• B&B’s – Small family run style accommodation like B&B’s can be found all over the country in small towns and popular rural locations. Accommodation is simple yet comfortable and the experience usually comes with friendly hosts and a home cooked breakfast each morning.

Eating out in Australia can be expensive in comparison to some other regions of the world. There are ways around this, especially if you willing to stay in self catering accommodation and do some simple cooking from time to time. Eatability offers an excellent website for eating out in Australia. On it you’ll find venues listed by region, cuisine and price with reviews by past diners to help you choose one that suits you.

• Supermarkets – The two big supermarkets you will encounter in most places are Woolworths and Coles. They both offer competitive pricing and just about any grocery item you might be after. In smaller towns you may encounter an IGA which is similar but because of its smaller size you’ll find it a little more expensive. Aldi is a newer supermarket chain which is quickly catching up to the others because of its super cheap prices.
• Fast Food / Take-away – Chain fast food stores are in all major centres of the country and along highways as well. If your looking for a cheap and tasty fast food meal, skip the chains like Maccas (what us Aussies call McDonalds) and go for a local family owned hamburger or fish and chip shops instead. You’ll find at least one of this style of take-away store in every city and town of the country.
• Cafes – Cafes can vary greatly in price and quality depending on the city/town or area of a city/town. Meals range from simple sandwiches and salads to hot dishes made fresh or served from a food warmer. Cafes offer the chance to have a large hot meal at lunch time so in the night time you’ll only need a snack.

• Pubs – Every city or town in Australia has a decent pub. Some small towns with only a few hundred people in them might surprisingly have multiple pubs. Having a schooner, pot, pint or midi (measurements of beer) at the end of a hot day with a simple bistro style meal is just part of the Aussie way. Pubs can vary widely in price these days as a lot in the major cities have been converted to trendy venues serving food that can rival some four start restaurants. However in country towns the meals are cheap and usually made using local produce.
• Restaurants – Just about every cuisine in the world is represented in a restaurant or two in Australia which is one of the reason why I love it so much. Prices in restaurants can vary greatly depending on the location and quality of the food but there are some good cheap ones out there, you just need to dig a little deeper.
• Fine Dining –  Australia has it’s fair share of the worlds best restaurants so if it is fine dining experiences you are after then you won’t be disappointed. Some of the worlds top chefs have been opening new venues in capital cities and sleepy country towns for the past few years giving locals and visitor a taste of the finer side of life.

Read More About Australia

Suggested itineraries.

Long Weekend Travel: 5 Easy Trips from Sydney

Exploring the Grand Pacific Drive

How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park

Two Week NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary (The Coastal Route)

Port Macquarie Weekend Itinerary

3 Days in the Atherton Tablelands: The Perfect Self-Drive Itinerary

One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary

9 Best Day Trips from Melbourne

Three Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary

Things to Do

20 Things to Do in Canberra

Things to Do in the Southern Highlands

35 Free Things to Do in Sydney

Things to Do in Eurobodalla on the NSW South Coast

Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast

Things to Do in Kiama and Surrounds

Things to Do in Jervis Bay

Things to Do in the NSW Snowy Mountains

Things to Do in Port Macquarie

15 Things to Do in Coffs Harbour (and surrounds)

Things to Do on Kangaroo Island

Things to Do in Gippsland Victoria

25 Free Things to Do in Melbourne

The Best Annual Events in Melbourne

Things to Do in Melbourne

Things to Do in Victoria’s High Country

Things to See on the Great Ocean Road

Things to Do in Echuca

Hotel Review: Rydges World Square Sydney

Hotel Review: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains

Hostel Review: Sydney Harbour YHA

The Best Self-Contained NSW South Coast Accommodaiton

Where to Stay in Port Macquarie

Where to Stay in Melbourne

Where to Stay on the Great Ocean Road

Tours & Attractions

Walking the Sea Cliff Bridge

7 Stunning Lookouts in Australia’s Blue Mountains

Visiting Scenic World in Australia’s Blue Mountains

Visiting the Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk

Finding Peace in Sydney’s Chinese Garden of Friendship

The Sydney Tower Eye Skywalk Experience

Best Things to See Around Sydney Harbour

7 Eurobodalla Culinary Delights That Should Not Be Missed

A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast

How to Climb Mt Kosciuszko (outside of winter)

Our Luxury Murray River Cruise Aboard the PS Murray Princess

Our Top 4 Kangaroo Island Wildlife Experiences

7 Things You Can Expect on a PS Murray Princess Cruise

What to See & Do in Flinders Chase National Park, Kangaroo Island

A Tour of the Buchan Caves in Gippsland Victoria

Getting Around Guides

Getting Around Sydney

How to Get to Kangaroo Island (plus the best ways to get around)

Inspiration

5 Reasons Why I Love Sydney

The 16 Best NSW South Coast Beaches

5 thoughts on “Australia Travel Guide”

What a treasure trove of information your blog is! Wow. I am not sure when I’ll be able to get to Australia, but I know that when I finally do, I’ll be using your advice a LOT! 🙂 I’ve been wanting to see this continent ever since I read a book about Australia as a teen, and that was quite a while ago. But it’s always been too far and too expensive to visit. Some day I will, though…

Thanks Jolanta. Really appreciate your feedback. I do hope you get a chance to visit Australia sometime soon and when you do make sure you let me know!

Hi Jen, do you having any info. on Tasmania. We are planning a trip to Tasmania in Sept/Oct 2017.

Hi Mag, Tassie is still on my list of places to visit someday so no sorry, right now I can’t offer you any advice. I hope you enjoy your trip there!

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Best Sellers in Australia Travel Guides

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Best of Australia

Get this book for free by becoming a Lonely Planet Insider:

• 3 eBook downloads every year
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$2.99 USD/month (charged annually) Learn more

Inside Lonely Planet’s Best of Australia :

• Full-colour images throughout
• Highlights and itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests
• Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots
• Essential info at your fingertips - hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, transit tips, prices
• Honest reviews for all budgets - eating, sightseeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss
• Cultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, art, food, wine, sports, landscapes, wildlife
• Free, convenient pull-out map (included in print version), plus easy-to-use colour maps to help you navigate

Coverage Includes: Sydney, Blue Mountains, Canberra, Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, Melbourne, Hobart, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Adelaide & South Australia, Perth & Margaret River, Kakadu National Park, and more.

eBook is available in ePub, MOBI and PDF.

ISBN: 9781787013933

Edition: 3rd

Publication Date: November 2019

Writers: Anthony Ham, Andrew Bain, Fleur Bainger, Dr Michael Cathcart, Cathy Craigie, Dr Tim Flannery, Samantha Forge, Paul Harding, Rachel Hocking, Trent Holden, Sofia Levin, Hugh McNaughtan, Kate Morgan, Charles Rawlings-Way, Andy Symington, Tasmin Waby

336 pages, 336pp color, 68 maps | Dimensions: 128mm × 197mm

Next edition due: August 2024 (will be titled Experience Australia)

16 Best Travel Books For Australia

This post may contain affiliate links that earn me a commission at no additional cost to you.

Australia is one of those bucket list destinations that many of us would love to travel to. It is definitely high on the list of places we would like to see and explore.

However, it is such a vast place, that it can often feel impossible to see everything in one trip. But, if you plan your trip well, you can explore different areas and make the most of your time in the country.

Whether it is just for a few short weeks or something a little longer, I have found some of the best travel guides for Australia that will help you make the most of your stay down under. Without further ado, here are 16 travel books for Australia.

Best Australia Guide Books For Travel Planning

Travel Australia by Van

Many people like the idea of traveling the country on the road, and using a camper van can often give you some of the best experiences in your life.

This book is two books in one. A planner for before you go where you can document the routes and places you want to stay, and then a diary for while you are there. It is a different sort of guide but a great investment for documenting your trip to Australia.

You can buy Travel Australia by Van here.

Lonely Planet Best of Australia

Lonely Planet is one of the best brands when it comes to travel books, and they have a fair few different ones that explore Australia. This one gives you the very best of Australia.

The authentic experiences, the places to go, and the things to embrace. It is a compact book filled with just the top experiences so perfect if you have some time to explore the country, but only want to enjoy the very best of it.

You can buy Lonely Planet Best of Australia here.

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Australia

This is another book that covers the whole of Australia and gives you a detailed overview of the places to go and the things you can enjoy seeing during your travels.

This book is full of insider information helping you to live like a local and experience some of the hidden gems that Australia has to offer.

You can buy DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Australia here.

Lonely Planet Australia

Another Lonely Planet book and one that covers the whole of Australia and gives you an excellent overview of the different cities and territories to explore.

It also covers some of the popular tourist attractions that you might want to skip so you don’t waste any of your valuable time here. A great overview of the country and an easy-to-follow guide.

You can buy Lonely Planet Australia here.

Ultimate Australia Travel List

This book is definitely a useful guide when it comes to looking at things to do in Australia. This is the ultimate list.

500 of the best experiences and things to do and see in Australia. They are also ranked so you know that you are guaranteed to get the very best out of your trip by using this guide. It is broad and covers the whole of Australia.

You can buy the Ultimate Australia Travel list here.

My Travel Planner Australia

This is the ideal book for any planner. It includes packing lists, areas to plan your trip to Australia, useful information on different destinations, and enough space to document a 27-day trip. A great companion for your trip to Australia.

You can buy My Travel Planner Australia here.

Australia Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide

You can’t beat a pocket guide and this one is packed full of relevant information to help you make the most of your trip to Australia. It also has a pull-out map that will help you ensure that you can truly make the most of your stay.

You can buy Australia Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide here.

Travel Books On Specific Areas Within Australia

Lonely Planet East Coast Australia

When traveling to Australia it might be that you could be looking at heading to a specific area of Australia. After all, it is such a huge country, and impossible to see everything all at once.

This guide is all about the east coast of Australia. Covering New South Wales, Victoria, the Whitsundays, and the Great Barrier Reef. Perfect if you are traveling to this area and want to explore.

You can buy the Lonely Planet East Coast Australia here.

Lonely Planet South Australia and Northern Territory

Another guide that is specific to different areas and is perfect if you are exploring different regions. This book focuses on Northern Territory and South Australia.

This book also boasts 30 different maps making it so much easier to get around. This is the ideal book to help you enjoy the southern wine regions and the northern mountains.

You can buy Lonely Planet South Australia and Northern Territory here.

Lonely Planet West Coast Australia

Another dedicated guide to a specific territory in Australia and this time it is Western Australia. This guide has information on the city of Perth as well as some of the more outback regions like Freemantle, Broome, and the Ningaloo coast.

There are plenty of experiences shared in this book to help you make the most of your visit to Western Australia.

You can buy Lonely Planet West Coast Australia here.

Lonely Planet Melbourne and Victoria

Melbourne and the region of Victoria are popular areas to visit when anyone thinks of Australia. The city itself is spectacular and Victoria has so much to offer.

The Coastal road has some of the most incredible destinations and this guide will help you make the most of all of the places to see and the experiences to enjoy during your trip.

You can buy Lonely Planet Melbourne and Victoria here.

DK Eyewitness Sydney 

Sydney is another iconic destination in Australia and possibly has the most recognized landmark in Australia. This guide gives you everything you need to know about the city.

The places to go, the hidden gems, and the things you will want to experience. There is a lot to offer in Sydney, and this guide has you covered.

You can buy DK Eyewitness Sydney here.

Perth Travel Guide

In Western Australia, there is one city that you will definitely have on your list and that is Perth. This guide has quick tips and information covering the culture, the places to go, the things to enjoy, and even some recommendations of places to eat and drink. You can’t go wrong!

You can buy the Perth Travel Guide here.

Gold Coast Travel Guide

The Gold Coast is a popular destination in Australia and is famed for its beautiful beaches. But there is so much more to this place than meets the eye. This travel guide will help you understand where to go and what to do if you are visiting the Gold Coast.

You can buy the Gold Coast Travel Guide here.

Canberra Travel Guide

If you want to know about the sights, the food, the culture, and everything in between when it comes to Canberra then this is the guide for you. It is full of quick tips and information to help you make the most out of your trip to Canberra.

You can buy the Canberra Travel Guide here.

Brisbane and Cairns Travel Guide

Last on the list is a guide on Brisbane and Cairns. The ideal guide to help you make the most out of these two incredible destinations.

Filled with all the hidden gems and the things you must see and do, you really can’t go wrong!

You can buy the Brisbane and Cairns Travel Guide here.

Enjoying Exploring Australia?

I hope this list of travel books for Australia will help you if you are planning a trip to this incredible country. And if you are looking for more reading in and around the land down under, check out these next:

• 21 Best Books Set In Australia

More Literary Travel

Start with this list of the very best  travel adventure books . It includes great reads that will fuel your wanderlust and have you staying up late to finish them. Or check out these books set in  bookshops or aboard trains .

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The Rough Guide to Australia

This practical travel guide to Australia features detailed factual travel tips and points-of-interest structured lists of all iconic must-see sights as well as some off-the-beaten-track treasures. Our itinerary suggestions and expert author picks of things to see and do will make it a perfect companion both, ahead of your trip and on the ground. This Australia guide book is packed full of details on how to get there and around, pre-departure information and top time-saving tips, including a visual list of things not to miss. Our colour-coded maps make Australia easier to navigate while you're there. This guide book to Australia has been fully updated post-COVID-19 and it comes with a free eBook. The Rough Guide to AUSTRALIA covers:   Sydney and around; New South Wales and the ACT; Coastal Queensland; Outback Queensland; Northern Territory; Western Australia; South Australia; Melbourne and around; Victoria; Tasmania Inside this Australia travel guide you'll find: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EVERY TYPE OF TRAVELLER

Experiences for every kind of trip to Australia, from off-the-beaten-track adventures in Uluru to family activities in child-friendly places, like Atherton Tablelands or chilled-out breaks in popular tourist areas, like Sydney Harbour. PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS

Essential pre-departure information including Australia entry requirements, getting around, health information, travelling with children, sports and outdoor activities, food and drink, festivals, culture and etiquette, shopping, tips for travellers with disabilities and more. TIME-SAVING ITINERARIES

Carefully planned routes covering the best of Australia give a taste of the richness and diversity of the destination, and have been created for different time frames or types of trip. DETAILED REGIONAL COVERAGE

Clear structure within each sightseeing chapter of this Australia travel guide includes regional highlights, brief history, detailed sights and places ordered geographically, recommended restaurants, hotels, bars, clubs and major shops or entertainment options. INSIGHTS INTO GETTING AROUND LIKE A LOCAL

Tips on how to beat the crowds, save time and money and find the best local spots for exploring the giant dunes and freshwater lakes or surfing. HIGHLIGHTS OF THINGS NOT TO MISS

Rough Guides' rundown of Melbourne, Bondi Beach, Victoria and Tasmania's best sights and top experiences helps to make the most of each trip to Australia, even in a short time. HONEST AND INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Written by Rough Guides' expert authors with a trademark blend of humour, honesty and expertise, this Australia guide book will help you find the best places, matching different needs. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Comprehensive 'Contexts' chapter features fascinating insights into Australia, with coverage of history, religion, ethnic groups, environment, wildlife and books, plus a handy language section and glossary. FABULOUS FULL COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHY

Features inspirational colour photography, including the stunning Mitchell Falls and the spectacular Manly Beach. COLOUR-CODED MAPPING

Practical full-colour maps, with clearly numbered, colour-coded keys for quick orientation in Sydney, Queensland and many more locations in Australia, reduce the need to go online. USER-FRIENDLY LAYOUT

With helpful icons, and organised by neighbourhood to help you pick the best spots to spend your time. FREE EBOOK

Free eBook download with every purchase of this guide book to Australia allows you to access all of the content from your phone or tablet, for on-the-road exploration.

Description

Book details.

This title is a part of Rough Guides Main Series

Practical travel guides series covering countries, cities and regions, with detailed factual travel tips, perfect for independent, long-stay, backpacking and budget-conscious travellers seeking comprehensive travel information and off-the-beaten track experiences

Extensive practical travel information including getting there, getting around, climate information, safety tips, accommodation explanations, food & drink advice and shopping essentials 

Curated author picks with destination highlights at the beginning of each guide

Ready-made itineraries covering every corner of the destination

Colour-coded places chapters with detailed coverage of places and sights, presented in a points-of-interest structure 

Extensive recommendations for accommodation, restaurants, shops and leisure activities for all budgets

Colour-coded detailed maps with marked-up key sights 

Insights on history and nature highlights  

Easy to use, newspaper-style layout

All guides published from January 2021 are printed on paper from responsible sources verified to meet FSC’s strict environmental and social standards

Free eBook with each printed guide published from May 2019 

Format: 129 x 198mm

Price: £14.99-£26.99 | $13.99-$34.99

Extent: 616–1208 page

BOOK DETAILS

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What We Reading

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7 Best Travel Books About Australia

“Don’t worry about the world coming to an end today. It is already tomorrow in Australia.”

Australia is known as the land of chilled-out surfers, beers, barbecues, cricket , and a whole slew of freakish animals capable of killing us in a myriad of ways. And yet, there is so much more to the sixth-largest country in the world. From the Outback to the Opera House, Australia draws visitors with its incredible biodiversity, stunning vibrancy, and contemporary cityscapes, making it one of the world’s most-visited destinations. Join us at What We Reading as we present the best Australia books for your next trip! Whether you’re looking for inspiration or practical planners, these reads will entice you to the land Down Under!

Lonely Planet Best Of Australia – Lonely Planet

The best collection of travel tips from the number one travel publisher kicks off our list of Australia books from Lonely Planet.

From Sydney Harbour to the Great Barrier Reef, their Best of Australia edition is designed to be the ultimate travel companion for readers trekking Down Under. With high-colour imagery, itineraries, a pull-out map, essential information, honest reviews, and cultural pointers, everything is condensed in this one handy guide. Best of Australia covers Sydney, Blue Mountains, Canberra, Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest , Melbourne, Hobart, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Adelaide & South Australia, Perth & Margaret River, Kakadu National Park—covering all the most popular attractions and destinations for those looking to see everything the country has to offer.

Down Under – Bill Bryson 

Bill Bryson has carved out a renowned career , offering readers travelogues on countries we all think we know, only to see them in entirely new lights, thanks to his sharp cynicism and infectious affection.

Trekking from state to state, Bryson brings to life the extremities of Australia’s flora, fauna, and sometimes otherworldly critters. From sociopathic jellyfish and toilet-dwelling death spiders to deadly shrubs, he juxtaposes these climate extremes with the ever-cool, laid-back locals. Down Under remains one of Bryson’s finest works and is sure to be an inspiring read for anyone looking to learn more about this paradoxical and strange land.

Australian Wanderlust: Discovering Authentic Australia – Emily L. Thorndike

Seeking an Australian travel book that ventures beyond the tried-and-tested attractions, promising an authentic experience? Emily L. Thorndike offers readers a user-friendly layout, up-to-date information, flexible itineraries, and stunning full-colour images that capture the extraordinary Australian continent, inspiring your next trip.

Australian Wanderlust provides up-to-date insights on popular destinations such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, Blue Mountains , Cairns, and Canberra. It goes further by offering a comprehensive guide to offbeat and hidden attractions. From delving into the history and stunning biodiversity to exploring Aboriginal culture and finding the best spots for a shopping spree, navigating the country is a breeze with this travel guide.

Travel: The Long Hitch Home – Maslin Jamie

Rogue wanderer Maslin Jamie delivers one of the most extraordinary travelogues in his 2015 book, The Long Hitch Home . Spanning 18 thousand miles, four seasons, three continents, and 19 countries, it follows him on his journey as he attempts to answer the question: ‘How many hitchhiking rides does it take to travel from Tasmania to London?’

Giving readers incredible insight into what it’s really like to live life on the road, Jamie maps the blistering deserts, freezing mountaintops, tropical jungles, and barren steppes as he picks up over 800 hitchhikes. ‘The Long Hitch Home’ takes readers into the off-beat destinations and backstreets of places most would never dream of visiting. It hilariously tells jam-packed, well-researched social, cultural, and historical commentaries from the countries he visited. Additionally, it includes heart-pumping accounts of the sometimes life-threatening threats he faced on his journey.It is travel writing that encapsulates the spirit of adventure.

Terra Nullius: A Journey Through No One’s Land – Sven Lindqvist 

Sven Lindqvist provides an illuminating dive into the history of Aboriginal culture and the harrowing efforts made by colonisers to create a white Australia in Terra Nullius .

In a travelogue spanning over 7,000 miles, Lindqvist reflects on Australia’s violent past at the places where over nine-tenths of the original inhabitants of the continent were wiped out. It is an evocative and, at times, harrowing read, but undoubtedly one of the best Australia books for shedding light on how and where the stunning modern society it possesses now comes from. Simultaneously, Terra Nullius is also a wonderful book, celebrating a sacred and beautiful country home to incredible art and cultures. Powerful and inspiring, this historical excavation is undoubtedly an invaluable resource in unearthing the full scope of the continent’s history.

Australian Wildlife: A Visitor’s Guide – Stella Martin

Australia remains one of the most alluring destinations for wildlife-focused travellers, and writer Stella Martin condenses all the incredible vibrancy and diversity the ancient continent has to offer in her travel guide, Australian Wildlife: A Visitor’s Guide .

Eucalyptus-dotted woodlands and the vivid, awe-inspiring beauty of the coral reefs characterize Australian Wildlife, a detailed resource with essential on-the-ground information, making it an invaluable travel companion for all nature lovers. Taking readers through stretches of untouched deserts and into the heart of lush rainforests , Martin explores and marvels at how such incredible and bizarre creatures have evolved and flourished right across the country.

The Monocle Travel Guide to Sydney (The Monocle Travel Guide Series) – Tyler Brule

Tyler Brule takes readers beyond the Opera House and into a genuine experience of the largest city in Oceania with The Monocle Travel Guide to Sydney . From Bondi Beach to the Blue Mountains, Sydney is Australia’s most famous destination, boasting a mishmash of cool urban designs and classic refinement.

Brule’s book immerses readers in the sights and sounds of the waterfront and some of the best beaches in the world, the exquisite delicacies on offer at Darling Harbour, and the quirky hipness of Kings Cross. Offering the latest information and tips on the best excursions in the area, as well as a whole slew of hidden gems only the locals know about, there’s no other book a reader needs to sample all there is to see in Sydney.

Check Out The Best Travel Books On New Zealand

Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).

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Australia’s 20 best travel experiences, ranked by Lonely Planet

Choosing Australia’s top travel experiences is not easy, and while many usual suspects appear in Lonely Planet’s list, some may even surprise locals

At 7.6m sq km, spanning eight climate and three time zones, Australia is a big country. So where do you start?

In making their new book, Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Australia Travel List, the travel guide publisher began by compiling every highlight in their existing books. “We then asked our writers, editors, designers and cartographers in Australia to reveal their favourite spots and experiences,” they say. From there, they solicited votes from a panel of travel experts and members of their community.

The result, “with hundreds of votes cast and a bit of mathematical alchemy, as well as a keen eye on sustainability practices”, is a new book of 500 experiences. They also ended up with “one very clear winner”.

Here is that winner, along with the rest of the book’s Top 20 experiences.

1. Fall silent before the majesty and gravitas of Uluru

Northern Territory/ Anangu Country

The landscape of Uluru changes dramatically with the shifting light and seasons. In the afternoon, Uluru appears as an ochre-brown colour, scored and pitted by dark shadows.

As the sun sets, it illuminates the rock in burnished orange, then a series of deeper and darker reds before it fades into charcoal. A performance in reverse, with marginally fewer spectators, is given at dawn.

Uluru is a beautiful, charismatic place. Its dimensions are one thing: it is 3.6km long and rises 348m from the surrounding sands (867m above sea level). If that’s not sufficiently impressive, remember this: two-thirds of the rock lies beneath the sand.

Uluru is a monolith textured with layers of profound spirituality and timeless beauty, the epitome of desert stillness and, in the plays of light and shadow that dance across its surface, one of the richest shows in nature. The sunset viewing areas are once-in-a-lifetime experiences understanding its singular beauty when surrounded by the vast desert around it.

You can also get up close by taking one of the walks that encircle the base. There are many options, but most fold into the Uluru Base walk, a 10.6km circumnavigation of the rock. Along the way, it passes caves, paintings, sandstone folds and geological abrasions and generally initiates you into the scope and detail of this remarkable place.

Sacred sites are everywhere; entry to and knowledge of the particular significance of these areas is restricted by local law, and knowing this only adds to Uluru’s mystery.

The walk takes you away from the crowds – very few visitors spend long enough here to get to know Uluru this well. There is no better way to experience the rock.

Around 1km from the rock itself, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre adds depth and perspective to your Uluru experience. Displays and exhibits focus on Tjukurpa (Aboriginal law, religion and custom) and on the natural and human history of the park. Park rangers can supply the informative visitor guide, leaflets and walking notes, as well as other park information.

2. Be confronted and inspired by art at the extraordinary Mona

Tasmania/ Palawa Country

Undeniably eccentric, the Museum of Old and New Art (almost universally known as Mona) has ushered Hobart on to the world’s cultural stage.

Opened in 2011, and housed in a Nonda Katsalidis-designed three-storey bunker burrowed into the Triassic sandstone of a peninsula jutting into the Derwent River, Mona is a showcase for founder and owner David Walsh’s remarkable collection of ancient, modern and contemporary art, which is loosely curated under the themes of sex and death.

All cultural roads lead to Mona in January (for Mona Fofa, or Mofo for short) and June (for Dark Mofo) for Tasmania’s largest contemporary music festival.

SEE IT! Mona is 12km north of Hobart’s city centre. The best way to get here is on the museum’s ferry, which departs from Brooke St Pier.

3. Be mesmerised by the Great Barrier Reef

Queensland/Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sea country

The Great Barrier Reef isn’t just the world’s largest living organism. Visible from outer space, it’s also one of the planet’s most precious ecosystems – and a gobsmackingly beautiful one to boot.

Home to more than 600 hard and soft coral species and a colourful array of other marine creatures, from tiny nudibranchs (sea slugs) to huge manta rays, this World Heritage-listed area also has cultural significance to more than 70 local Indigenous groups, their connections to the reef dating back some 60,000 years.

It’s no secret, of course, that the Great Barrier Reef faces a number of threats. Yet from coral planting dive trips to Indigenous-led reef tours, there are more opportunities than ever to experience this fragile ecosystem sustainably, helping to ensure that this incredible slice of nature can be enjoyed for generations of visitors to come.

4. Find freedom on the Great Ocean Road

Victoria/ Gadubanud and Girai wurrung Country

As its name rightfully declares, the Great Ocean Road is no ordinary stretch of bitumen. This is one of the world’s bucket-list drives, a 243km blockbuster of breathtaking coastal vistas, koala-speckled gums, nostalgic holiday towns and rolling dairy farms. Officially bookended by Torquay and Allansford, the route takes in the arresting beauty of Port Campbell national park.

The entire drive can be tackled as a long day trip from Melbourne, though it pays to stay longer. Spend at least a few days riding waves and horses on Fairhaven Beach, chomping on fresh crayfish at Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op and snooping around time-warped sites like Cape Otway Lightstation.

The Great Ocean Road weaves through Great Otway national park, where walking trails lead through temperate rainforest splashed by waterfalls. If you fancy a multi-day trek, ditch the wheels altogether and hit the 104km Great Ocean walk, the most intimate way to experience this fabled stretch of surf.

5. Walk alongside Australia’s highest sea cliffs on the Three Capes track

Tasmania/Palawa Country

Any list of epic Australian bushwalks is bound to contain the Three Capes track. Traversing a well-maintained path alongside the lofty sea cliffs in Tasman national park, this four-day, 48km trek kicks off after walkers are dropped by boat at the Denmans Cove trailhead.

The route links the cove with Cape Raoul, Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy before finishing on the sandy shores of Fortescue Bay. Scenery includes eucalypt forests, coastal heathland and ocean views for as far as the eye can see.

Accommodation is in ranger-supervised camps with architect-designed huts that are almost as good looking as the eye-popping coastal scenery.

You’ll walk up the slopes of Crescent Mountain and Mt Fortescue and down to Ellarwey Valley, seeing native flora and fauna aplenty. Daredevils can scale the well-named Blade Rock formation at Cape Pillar and plunge into the icy surf at Fortescue Bay. The track is described as being achievable for most ages and abilities, but some bushwalking experience is recommended.

WALK IT! Tasman national park is 100km south-east of Hobart. Boats collect walkers at Port Arthur. Daily walker numbers are capped, so book well ahead .

6. Explore the weird and wonderful rock formations of Bungle Bungles

Western Australia/ Jaru And Gidja Country The bizarre, ancient, beehive domes of the World Heritage-listed Purnululu national park will take your breath away. Known colloquially as the Bungle Bungles, these remote rocky ranges are the finest example of cone karst sandstone anywhere in the world.

The distinctive rounded rock towers are made of sandstone and conglomerates moulded by rainfall over millions of years. To the local Gidja people, “purnululu” means sandstone, with Bungle Bungle possibly a corruption of “bundle bundle”, a common grass. The park is rich in fauna and flora, the walks take you through shady palm-fringed gorges, and the sunsets here are sublime. There’s refreshingly little infrastructure and it’s never crowded.

SEE IT! Access is via a rough, unsealed, flood-prone 4WD-only track from the Great Northern Hwy north of Halls Creek, or by air on a package tour from Kununurra or Warmun. For more information, visit www.parkstay.dpaw.wa.gov.au .

7. Enjoy the ultimate rainforest experience in Daintree national park

Queensland/Kuku Yalanji Country

The oldest tropical rainforest on the planet, the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest is like a real life Jurassic Park, complete with living dinosaurs, from cassowaries to crocs.

South of the Daintree River, the Indigenous-run Mossman Gorge is the most accessible of the park’s two sections. Here an elevated boardwalk tracing the crystal-clear Mossman River connects to a scenic 2.4km rainforest circuit. Learn more about the Kuku Yalanji connections to this verdant oasis on a tour with Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks.

Some say you haven’t been to the Daintree until you’ve visited the Cape Tribulation section of the park north of the Daintree River, where rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. Allow several days to soak up this lush wilderness, dotted with rainforest boardwalks and idyllic croc-free swimming holes.

SEE IT! From Port Douglas it’s a 20-minute drive west to Mossman Gorge, and a 40-minute drive to the Daintree River Ferry.

8. Set sail for Kangaroo Island’s wilderness and wildlife

South Australia/Kartan Country

Kangaroo Island (KI) was scorched by bushfires in Australia’s “Black Summer” of 2019–20, but remains a veritable zoo of seals, birds, dolphins, echidnas and (of course) kangaroos. Island produce (wine, seafood, gin, beer), surf beaches and the kooky rock formations of Flinders Chase national park are also highlights.

These days, KI is rurally paced with a scattering of laid-back towns – the kind of place where kids ride bikes to school and farmers advertise for wives on noticeboards. The excellent five-day, 64km coastal Kangaroo Island Wilderness trail was ravaged by the fires, but trail reconstruction is under way: watch this space.

SEE IT! KI is big! You can’t see it all in a day. Bring your car on the ferry and explore over a weekend.

9. Marvel at the Milky Way in the Warrumbungle Dark Sky Park

New South Wales/Kamilaroi Country The night sky unrolls around you each night in the Warrumbungle national park, Australia’s first and only Dark Sky Park. The 233 sq km park has been internationally recognised for its stunning views of the stars due to its high altitude, low humidity and carefully monitored light pollution.

With four observatories to choose from, you can stargaze well into the night. Siding Springs Observatory is home to the largest optical telescope in Australia – with a mirror measuring 3.9m, the Anglo Australia telescope is capable of viewing quasars up to 12bn light years away.

The Warrumbungles still have plenty to offer once the sun rises. Avid bushwalkers are sure to enjoy the rugged volcanic landscape. The Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk will bring you close to the park’s most impressive formations. With over 190 bird species recorded within the park, birdwatchers should be sure to look out for emus, wedge-tailed eagles and the southern boobook owl.

For a more relaxing option, take a trip along the world’s largest Virtual Solar System Drive. The dome of the Siding Springs Observatory represents the sun, with scaled model planets stretching the whole 200km to Dubbo.

10. Light up your time in Sydney at the Vivid festival

New South Wales/Gadigal Country

During Vivid Sydney, video art and massive images are projected on to Sydney’s iconic architecture, with the sails of the Opera House, the arches of the Harbour Bridge and the sandstone buildings of the Rocks all transformed into leviathan canvases for a shimmering collage of spotlights, laser beams and electrified sky-high street art.

Journey on the harbour at night on the Manly Ferry for brilliant views, or join a chartered boat trip to take in the best of the glowing spectacle. Beyond the illuminations, music is also a stunning part of the Vivid experience, from big international artists to more intimate performances from the best of Australia’s emerging talent.

SEE IT ! The festival is held annually for three weeks. The 2022 festival will take place from 27 May to 18 June.

11. Go wild on mainland Australia’s southernmost point, Wilsons Prom

Victoria/Brataualung Country

Hitting rock bottom is a good thing when it involves Wilsons Promontory. Occupying the southernmost point of mainland Australia, the 305 sq km national park claims some of Victoria’s most varied, magnificent natural landscapes: salt-white Squeaky Beach, the Saharan dunes of the Big Drift, the lushness of Lilly Pilly Gully.

Walking tracks lead over ridges, across heathland and through headily scented bush alive with kangaroos, wombats, echidnas and iridescent birdlife. The Telegraph Saddle to Sealers Cove route (10.3km) is especially memorable, weaving through fern gullies and swampland to a forest-backed beach. It’s the first section of the challenging, multi-day Southern Circuit (59km), whose stops also include the monumental Oberon Bay.

A much quicker way to admire the bay’s sweep is from panoramic Mt Oberon, an easy 6.8km return hike from the Telegraph Saddle car park. Head up at sunset and pinch yourself. SEE IT! Tidal River is the park’s hub, with visitor information, a general store and accommodation. Avoid school holiday periods and book accommodation in advance at www.parks.vic.gov.au .

12. Experience wildlife and Indigenous history in Kakadu

Northern Territory/ Bininj/Mungguy Country

Kakadu ranks among the world’s great national parks. Its wetlands and escarpments shelter abundant wildlife and rock art that dates back 20,000 years. This is the land of the Bininj/Mungguy, whose presence brings soul and spirituality to any visit here.

In just a few days you can cruise on billabongs bursting with wildlife, examine millennia-old rock paintings under the care of an Indigenous guide, swim in pools at the foot of tumbling waterfalls and hike through ancient sandstone escarpment country. Ubirr and Nourlangie are the main rock-art sites, Jim Jim has the best falls, Cahill’s Crossing is terrific for crocs, and Yellow Water (Ngurrungurrudjba) is great for birds and other wildlife. Kakadu is very popular and can become crowded – in the Dry at least. But this is a vast park, and with a little adventurous spirit you can easily get off the beaten track and be alone with nature.

13. Be wowed by white sands and crystalline water at Wineglass Bay

The show-stealing centrepiece of Freycinet national park, curvaceous Wineglass Bay is Tasmania’s most famous beach for good reason. Its blindingly white sand and pink granite headlands splashed with flaming orange lichen are almost ludicrously photogenic, and a walk along its length to Hazards Beach is almost as rewarding as a swim in its gin-clear water.

Views of the bay are best appreciated from the Wineglass Bay Lookout, a 90 minute walk from the national park’s walking track car park. From here, 1,000 steps lead down to the beach. Those who choose to stay longer and walk further can set off on the Freycinet Peninsula Circuit, a three-day, 30km trek around the peninsula from Hazards Beach south to Cooks Beach, then across the peninsula over a heathland plateau before descending to Wineglass Bay.

SEE IT! Wineglass Bay is 200km north-east of Hobart, via the Tasman Hwy (A3) and C302.

14. Hit the Grampians for an epic hike in Victoria’s Garden of Eden

Victoria/ Jardwadjali and Djab wurrung Country

Hitchcock couldn’t have directed it better himself. A long, eerie crevasse; a sharp left turn, then – BAM! – Pinnacles Lookout and its knockout vista over ranges and plains.

Gotcha moments are thick on the ground when hiking Grampians national park, its sandstone peaks rising like petrified gods. While there are plenty of short strolls – the 4km Mt William (Duwul) Summit walk is breathtaking – the Grampians Peaks trail is the ultimate lace-up adventure.

A 160km long, 13-day odyssey, it spans the entire length of the Grampians (Gariwerd), from Mt Zero (Mura Mura) in the north to the culinary hamlet of Dunkeld in the south. Along it, precious landscapes unfurl, from woodlands and waterfalls to cooling fern valleys. Harboured within: red-tailed black cockatoos, endangered pincushion lilies and the haunting handprints and figures of Aboriginal rock art shelters like Ngamadjidj and Gulgurn Manja.

HIKE IT! See www.grampianspeakstrail.com.au for trail information. Foodies should book a night at Dunkeld’s Royal Mail Hotel.

15. Elevate your Sydney experience on the Bondi to Coogee clifftop walk

Say good morning to the perfect way to take in the best of Sydney’s coastal scenery. The simply sensational 6km Bondi to Coogee walk leads south from Bondi Beach along the clifftops via Tamarama, Bronte and Clovelly, interweaving panoramic views, patrolled beaches, sea baths, waterside parks and plaques recounting local Aboriginal stories. Pack your swimmers if the weather’s warm.

WALK IT! The trail begins at the southern end of Notts Ave near Bondi’s Hunter Park, and completes its view-friendly route near Dunningham Reserve at the northern end of Coogee.

16. Immerse yourself in the remarkable desert rocks of Kata Tjuta

There’s nowhere on earth quite like Kata Tjuta (formerly the Olgas), a striking group of domed rocks huddled together about 35km west of Uluru. The deep valleys and steep-sided gorges contain sites which are sacred to the local Anangu people.

The tallest rock, Mt Olga (546m; 1,066m above sea level) is higher than Uluru. The Valley of the Winds loop, one of the most rewarding bushwalks in Australia’s Red Centre, winds through the gorges and past surreal domes in hues of the deepest red offset by the blue of the desert sky. Elsewhere, Walpa Gorge is especially beautiful in the afternoon, when sunlight floods the gorge. The views from the Sand Dune Lookout, off the road to Uluru, put everything in perspective.

17. Revere Port Campbell national park’s Apostles

Victoria/Girai wurrung Country

You couldn’t ask for a grander finale to the Great Ocean Road. As it shakes off the tortuousness of the Otway Ranges, forest turns to weather-beaten scrub, the sky bursts open and the route shoots west along a flat, narrow escarpment dropping away to terrifying ocean-pounded cliffs. This is Port Campbell national park, home to Victoria’s geological superstars, the Twelve Apostles.

Out of cold, savage waters they rise – monumental limestone stacks, abandoned by the retreating coastline. In truth, there are fewer than 12, but this fails to diminish their impact.

Less famous but no less spectacular are the Bay of Islands and London Bridge rock stacks, just west of sleepy Port Campbell township. Once a double-arched rock platform, London Bridge indeed fell down in 1990, leaving two terrified tourists marooned on the world’s newest island – they were eventually rescued by helicopter.

To the east of the Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge is where the Shipwreck Coast’s most famous and haunting tale unfolded, when two young survivors of the wrecked iron clipper Loch Ard made it to shore. From the clifftop, a path leads down to the cave where the pair took shelter.

The best time to visit is at sunset, not only for the optimal Instagram opportunities (and to beat the tour buses), but also to catch a glimpse of little penguins returning. Sightings vary, but generally the penguins arrive 30 minutes after sunset; don’t forget your binoculars!

18. Reconcile the laid-back splendour of Rottnest Island with its gruesome past

Western Australia/ Noongar Country

With warm water, sunken wrecks, diverse marine life and 63 beaches, it’s little wonder people flock to “Rotto” to swim, fish, laze, dive, snorkel, surf and sea-kayak their cares away. And of course, no trip to Rottnest is complete without the obligatory selfie with the incredibly cute, furry and all-too-trusting quokka.

Highlights include “The Basin”, a family- friendly seawater pool, and the 20m Wadjemup Lighthouse on the island’s highpoint. Wadjemup is a Noongar word meaning “place across the water where the spirits are” – rather apt, given at least 373 unmarked graves hold the victims of a harsh and cruel prison for Aboriginal people operating during the 1800s.

19. Catch the Manly Ferry across one of the world’s greatest harbours

New South Wales/Guringai Country

The Manly Ferry is one of Sydney’s best bargains for visitors to the city. Take in Opera House and Harbour Bridge views before sliding past the ritzy suburbs of Point Piper and Rose Bay and exiting the rocky promontories of the Sydney Heads.

Opposite Manly Wharf, refresh with a beer at the 4 Pines brewpub before strolling along the Corso to the surf, sand and Norfolk pine-lined esplanade of Sydney’s second-most famous beach. Pretty good for around $10.

CRUISE IT! The Manly Ferry departs from Wharf 3 at Circular Quay and takes around 20 minutes.

20. Dive into Queensland’s Museum of Underwater Art

Queensland/Bindal and Wulgurukaba Sea Country

As if the Great Barrier Reef wasn’t epic enough, you can now explore an underwater sculpture garden. The second instalment of the Townsville region’s Museum of Underwater Art, the Coral Greenhouse features 20 human figures performing conservation work in and around a submerged conservatory.

Designed by the renowned sculptor, Jason deCaires Taylor, in collaboration with Indigenous groups, the installation complements the Ocean SirTen sculpture.

DIVE IT! Dive tours to the Coral Greenhouse run from Townsville and Magnetic Island.

This is an edited extract from Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Australia Travel List , $39.99. Available now.

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THE BEST AUSTRALIA TRAVEL GUIDE BOOK 2024

Your australia itinerary book.

The Ultimate Guide Book for Planning an Australia Trip

This Australia travel book will take you throughout all steps of planning your trip to Australia. By evaluating and balancing out your time frame with the right destinations and activities as well as choosing the most cost-effective transportation for getting around the country. This Australia guide book provides you with all key travel planning elements that you need for a successful trip. Learn about the best practices  for planning a trip to Australia stress-free!

Please note that you get a digital version of this book, in PDF format. 

HOW THIS AUSTRALIA TRAVEL BOOK WILL HELP YOU

Planning a trip to Australia is overwhelming; I know! What if you had something that took off you the work of searching on the internet for all your questions?

This handy Itinerary Australia Guide Book shows you the best way to creating your trip Itinerary with no stress. This is nothing like a Lonely Planet Australia guide book. We don’t go into any specific details like museums addresses, listing of restaurants, opening times, prices etc. etc. Our Australia Book is a bible for planning your trip with first-hand tips and tricks, from a traveller perspective. It focuses on the best itinerary ideas, that are proven and tested by the writer, along with all options that allow you to extend or shorten any trip leg. 

Here below a recap of all benefits you will get from Your Australia Itinerary Guide Book:

BOOK READERS’ TESTIMONIALS

Hands-down the most comprehensive guide for traveling through australia.

This is hands-down the most comprehensive guide for traveling through Australia I have ever read. First Michela helps you decide where to go based on what’s important to you, and then she gives you the exact information and tools that you need to get there. What really impressed me were the incredibly detailed itineraries, customized for different time frames. This guide will literally save you days, if not weeks, of research and planning! Although it’s titled ‘the ultimate guide for solo female travelers,’ I would highly recommend it for anyone planning a dream trip to Australia.

Brilliant and helfpful book

I absolutely love this book! Warning – it will absolutely whet your appetite to visit Australia. Several itineraries are presented inside, with options for shortening/lengthening the trip, swapping out legs, and approximate total costs in AUD. She summarizes each itinerary with what will be covered, and who it is geared toward – i.e. if you’re a food/wine lover, nature lover, etc. Much of the content is geared toward solo travel, though she is quick to note when having a companion would be helpful.The book doesn’t go into the history of each area (like a Rick Steves guidebook would), but I actually appreciated that fact.

As a family of five, I did wonder if we were the intended readers of this book

However, with time running out and with so many ideas and options available, this book was a real find. Clearly set out with detailed maps, plenty of ideas, opportunities to customise the trip, choices for shortening or lengthening the different legs and the opportunity to contact the author directly, this was a real help. In the end we did an adapted version of the second itinerary, but missed out the middle leg only through lack of time. Our family based ourselves in Sydney and Cairns and enjoyed the contrast between a busy city and a quieter, beachside location. We only scratched the surface of this amazing country but if the opportunity arises to visit again, this book would certainly be the first one we consulted.

This book has it all

From the conception of the dream of travelling Australia to the actual stepping aboard the flight and heading off. It includes everything for the solo traveller, especially female travellers on how to stay safe on your travels. The author, Michela, is a total travel guru when it comes to Australia travel and her research for this book is all based on her own actual solo travels in this vast beautiful country, she has included all the cities and landmarks which we are familiar with from books and media but she also gives fascinating insight into places most people have never heard of and as a result wish to visit and the explore. I’ve travelled myself solo extensively around Australia but how I wish I had access to this fantastic book as I would have saved myself a lot of money and time and a whole lot of hassle, so next time I go I will be more than well informed. A super informative book written by a woman passionate about a land that captures the heart of the traveller and the best tool you can arm yourself with if you decide to travel to this wonderful land you can never get over.

The book has been extremely beneficial to planning my Australia Trip

Prior to reading “Your Australia Itinerary,” I was desperately trying to locate several of the visual travel planning elements that Michela included in this book such as transportation times/distance, climate/season to territory, etc.- Michela’s book, blog, and personal advice on female solo travel to OZ is a unique niche like no other – however it was exactly what I was looking for! Michela is an experienced, female solo traveler to Australia and is substantiated in her book. I couldn’t have mastered the planning of my dream trip without her and her book!

HOW THIS AUSTRALIA GUIDE BOOK WILL HELP YOU

This handy Guide Book shows you an easy way to creating your trip Itinerary with no stress. This is nothing like Lonely Planet Australia. We don’t go into any specific details like museums addresses, listing of restaurants, opening times, prices etc. etc. Our guide book is a bible for planning your trip with first-hand tips and tricks, from a traveller perspective. It focuses on the best itinerary ideas, that are proven and tested by the writer, along with all options that allow you to extend or shorten any trip leg.

Here below a recap of all benefits you will get from my Australia Travel Book:

Save Hours Searching On The Internet

Save hours of wading through the abundance of information on the internet and get it all in one easy-to-read guide book that shows you how ​to create your Australia itinerary to exactly match the time you have and the pace you choose. Learn how t​o​ choose the right places to visit and how many days to spend there, as well as make 80% of travel arrangements before leaving home, so to not waste precious time for changes in the last minute.

Maximise Your Time Travelling in Australia

Australia is a big country, and it can get overwhelming if you try to see the highlights, enjoy your trip, and not feel rushed. Here you get all options based on the type of trip and activities you want to experience with a realistic view of how long you need to see different parts of Australia, thus avoiding spending lots of time in transit as well as maximising the time you have on the spot.

Craft a thought-out Australia Travel Plan

Enjoy the assistance of five simple-to-understand themed itineraries and activities guides. Pick the one that best suits your time frame and tweak it with over 36 additional options, for shortening or lengthening each trip leg. Consult estimated costs and checklists for budgeting your trip. Use ready-made maps, resources, as well as recommendations for transportation and accommodation to make all your arrangements.

Take Your Australia Trip To The Next Level

Profit from the author’s knowledge and expertise. The author is a guru when it comes to Australia Travel . She is not only passionate about the country; she has gathered extensive experiences. Next to classic destinations, she gives you fascinating insights into places that most people have never heard of, thus helping you make of your Australia Trip a unique and memorable experience.

ABOUT THE BOOK AUTHOR

Michela Fantinel is the founder of Rocky Travel, a popular travel site for the independent, savvy and solo traveller who loves to travel more simply and smartly. In over 15 years of solo adventures around Australia , she has crisscrossed the country and covered +100 thousand kilometres. 

She knows how important it is to be well-prepared and have everything in place before travelling to Australia. Feel free to get in touch with her, after purchasing Your Australia Itinerary Guide Book , for any questions you may have. 

If you wish more in-depth help, check out Michela’s Trip-Planning Services .

What Readers Say – More Book Reviews 

Quick read and great overview.

  I loved the book and the fact that in a couple of hours, I had a really good idea of the areas of Australia that would be of interest to our family of 4. The format of sharing highlights and then a quick quiz to see if that area is right for you was very helpful as I went back to the back while finalizing what we work to do. I took the author up on her offer of advice to those who bought the book and received excellent feedback on what was realistic, so using the book and her blogs, we made adjustments to our plans before going. Highly recommend it, it is not just for solo travellers.

Thorough Guide For A Trip To Australia

I think this is an excellent book for people planning a trip to Australia. Michela really knows the country well and has spent extensive periods of time throughout the country. Australia is a huge place, almost the size of the continental US, so it can get overwhelming to try to see the highlights, enjoy your trip, and not feel rushed. Michela shows you your options based on the type of trip you want to have and the kinds of activities you enjoy. She gives you a realistic view of how long you need to see different parts of the country, so you don’t spend your whole trip in transit. I recommend this book to people who want some direction and expert advice on planning their trip to Australia.

Organised and Detailed Without Being Complicated

I found this Australia travel guide by Michela Fantinel to be well-organised and thorough. Having never been to Australia, I like this guide with several suggested itineraries, which would make travel planning much less overwhelming. The author has travelled all over the country in order to include insider tips as to the length of time needed in various locations. I also thought the suggestions based on personal interests, such as beaches, nature, landmarks, etc., were invaluable. The numerous links for more resources are helpful, as well as the author’s offer for a personal travel consultation. I would highly recommend this guide to anyone traveling to Australia.

Truly the Ultimate Guide To Travel Through Australia

This is truly the ultimate guide to travel through Australia; not only for solo female travellers as it is aimed, but also highly suitable for anyone considering travel through the country. As an Australian, I learnt more about my own country from this guide than from 14 years of residency! Michela goes above and beyond telling the reader “what to do” but also provides them with the knowledge of how to do it. Her trip planning basics lay out everything a first-time traveller needs to know, and her comprehensive itineraries equip you with a detailed checklist, outline and Google map overview for those considering a road trip. She goes above and beyond by recommending extended or shortened itineraries for those with little or extra time and provides the reader with a fantastic list of additional resources for travel throughout each Australian State. This guide covers everything!

Thi Toolbox Jewel will save you 30 hours research on the internet!

If I had this guide to travel within Australia before I started preparing for my trip I would have saved 30 hours of research.  When I think of the list of details I had to generate it felt overwhelming at first.  I accomplished most of it on my own after I found this guide.  On careful examination, I discovered that every single topic that needed to be addressed is included right here, with links to further information on each one. Because of the availability of choices in what is truly a large country, the guide offers 5 different itineraries with time frames to give the potential traveler, some perspective on how to schedule for their vacation.  Of course, you have the option of omitting and including your own special needs to tailor your perfect trip. I was lucky in that I already had mapped out my preferred journey and the very first suggested itinerary almost matched my plans exactly.  Just a small modification made my job incredibly easy. The only regret in discovering this toolbox jewel was that I did not have it available sooner.  But if it is available to someone who has yet to start the planning process, this Australia guide book is a treasure worth embracing.

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