8-day Sydney to Melbourne inland drive

Watch the sunrise over the white sails of the Sydney Opera House as the harbour shimmers in pink and gold. Wander around the lush botanic gardens, then unwind with a coffee along the cobblestone streets of the historic Rocks precinct. 

Experience Sydney’s beach culture at the bustling Bondi Beach, where trendy cafés and designer boutiques meet the sparkling blue bay. Take a dip in the iconic Icebergs ocean pool or join the locals in the waves with Let’s Go Surfing.

Traverse Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs on the 6km (3.7mi) Bondi to Coogee walk, celebrated as one of Australia’s best coastal walks. Discover white-sand beaches, sparkling blue coves and laid-back suburbs. Look out for whales between May and November.

One of the world’s most scenic zoos, Taronga Zoo – which overlooks the glistening Sydney Harbour – is well worth a visit. Catch the ferry to meet a myriad of wildlife, including koalas, red kangaroos and giraffes (with the best view in the house).

Jump on the ferry to Manly and sail past the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Fort Denison and Admiralty House. In Manly, relax on family-friendly beaches, snorkel with marine life at the world-class Cabbage Tree Bay and enjoy oceanfront dining.

Indulge in Sydney’s culinary scene this evening. Start at one of the city’s chic rooftop bars. Afterwards, settle in for more vistas and a taste of modern Australian fare at one of the city’s restaurants with a view. Rest your head at the quirky QT.

If you’ve got a train enthusiast in tow, stop by the NSW Rail Museum for a trip back in time. Hop onboard a heritage steam engine through the countryside, walk through an eerie prison van and discover the biggest collection of rolling stock in Australia. 

If you’re keen on cricket, visit the Bradman Museum on Jude Street. Here, you can browse a vast collection of memorabilia associated with Sir Donald Bradman, Australia’s most famous batsman and one of the greatest cricketers of all time.

Drive to the well-preserved Georgian village of Berrima. Follow the Berrima Heritage Walk to stroll past the village’s most historic sites. Then, grab a bite to eat at the Surveyor General Inn – Australia’s oldest continuously licensed inn. 

Go hunting for antiques in the township of Bowral, a treasure trove for brilliant bookstores and antique shops. Pick up collectables at Dirty Janes, browse the eclectic shelves of Grampa’s Shed and find yourself between the rows at the Bookshop Bowral.

Nestled amid the Southern Highlands' rolling hills are over 60 vineyards. Follow the region’s Wine Trail to sample cool-climate wines – from chardonnay to sauvignon blanc and riesling – at picturesque cellar doors.

Feast your eyes on the 80m (262ft) Fitzroy Falls along the West Rim walking track. This moderate 3.5km (5.5mi) trail curves around eucalypt forests and thundering waterfalls that cascade into the expansive valley of Morton National Park.

Goulburn, Australia’s first inland city, is rich in history. Follow the self-guided heritage tour to explore sites including St. Saviour’s Cathedral and the Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre. For epic views, visit the Rocky Hill War Memorial and Museum.

It wouldn’t be an Aussie road trip without snapping a photo next to one of our ‘Big Things.’ In the country town of Goulburn, you won’t miss the Big Merino; a 15.2m (50ft) high statue representing ‘The Fine Wool Capital of the World.’

Canberra’s rolling hills are synonymous with picturesque vineyards. Sample innovative drops at some of the 40-plus wineries. If you’re feeling peckish, head to Lerida Estate on the shores of Lake George for a mouthwatering lunch and wine tasting.

Spend a leisurely afternoon swanning around Canberra’s waterside hub of Lake Burley Griffin. Charter an electric GoBoat, rent hire bikes from Cycle Canberra or flop into a chair in time for happy hour at Walt & Burley, perched on the lake’s edge.

Witness one of Australia’s best sunrises on a hot air balloon ride with Balloon Aloft. Glide over the glassy Lake Burley Griffin, then toast the morning with Champagne at the Hyatt Hotel. There’s no better way to start your day in the capital. 

Unleash your creative mind at Canberra’s best museums and art galleries. Everything from beautiful war memorials to famous portraits are on offer. The National Gallery of Australia (NGA) is home to one of the finest collections of artwork on the planet.

Connect to culture at Mount Majura, the highest peak in suburban Canberra. On a Dhawura Aboriginal Cultural Tour, explore significant Aboriginal sites, spot native wildlife, sample bush foods and soak in stunning views of the Mount Majura Valley.

Browse hipster boutiques in the trendy inner-north suburb of Braddon, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of pre-loved and designer threads. On a Sunday, stock up on culinary treats and handmade crafts at the leafy, laid-back Haig Park Village Markets.

Canberra’s culinary scene rivals the best. Kick off your evening sampling craft ales at Braddon’s buzzy BentSpoke Brewing Co., then dive into Eightysix’s modern, playful menu. Pretzel-topped banoffee pie, anyone?

Stop at the rural riverside town of Yass to stretch your legs along the Yass Historic Walk, lined with ornate Victorian buildings and museums. Before you hit the road, enjoy a caffeine fix and homemade cake at Kaffeine 2582 coffee house.

Walk the 4km (2.5mi) Recreational Trail to check out The Dog on the Tuckerbox, a famous monument off the Hume Highway. In town, pick up a key and headset from the Visitor Centre to tiptoe around the Old Gundagai Gaol on a spooky self-guided tour.

Wagga Wagga may be the state’s largest inland city, but it’s brimming with greenery. Explore the Botanic Gardens, where floral-framed paths will lead you to a mini zoo, playgrounds and Wagga Beach, which spills into the Murrumbidgee River. 

Wagga Wagga is bursting with farm-fresh produce. Pick juicy strawberries straight from the tree at Bidgee Strawberries and Cream, sample award-winning olive oil at Wollundry Grove Olives or savour the region’s top drops at the 30-plus cellar doors.

For dinner, head to Thaigga for bold, contemporary Thai in town. Or, opt for an upscale degustation menu at the award-winning Magpies Nest Restaurant. Ask for a window seat; the restaurant overlooks the vineyard, olive groves and the tranquil river.

Perched on the snaking Murray River – which marks the border between New South Wales and Victoria – the town of Albury is your gateway to the Murray’s adventure playground. Rent kayaks from Murray River Canoe Hire and explore the waterway’s wonders.

Albury is home to a vibrant arts community, making it a great spot to admire art in regional Australia. Browse the galleries and fascinating museums, including the Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA). It’s considered the heart of art and culture along the Murray River.

Pause for lunch at Miss Amelie, one of the region’s acclaimed hatted restaurants (Australia’s answer to Michelin stars). Make your way through plates of modern European seasonal fare and an impressive selection of local and imported wines.

On your way to Benalla, take a scenic detour to the King Valley – Australia’s home of prosecco. Follow the King Valley Prosecco Road to sip some of Australia’s best Italian varietals including sangiovese, nebbiolo, verduzzo – and prosecco, of course.

Breathe deeply in Victoria’s ‘spa country’, centred around Daylesford. At the grand Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, soak in warm mineral-rich waters, melt into a massage bed and treat yourself to traditional Devonshire tea with decadent scones.

Venture to the lovely Lavandula Farm, home to rows of lilac-hued lavender. Browse handcrafted goods at the Farm Shop, explore the historic Swiss Italian stone buildings and indulge at Maria’s Trattoria, known for its decadent desserts. 

When you think your day can’t get any more wholesome, snoozing koalas and free-roaming kangaroos enter the equation. Spend the afternoon exploring Ballarat Wildlife Park’s adorable exhibits. Did we mention the world’s smallest penguins?

Spend the afternoon at Sovereign Hill, an immersive outdoor museum that brings Australia’s gold rush era to life. Wander the recreated 19th-century streets, where kids can try their hand at gold panning or venture below ground on a mine tour.

The Bellarine Peninsula’s coastal climate has beckoned winemakers to its rich soil primed for cool-climate wines. Meet the makers along the Taste Trail, and don’t miss Jack Rabbit Vineyard’s 180-degree ocean vistas and delicious lunch fare.

Bordering the Great Ocean Road, the Bellarine Peninsula boasts some of Victoria’s most epic beaches. Watch surfers in the waves at the wild and beautiful Thirteenth Beach, or lay down a towel at the family-friendly Ocean Grove Main Beach.

Top off your trip with an unforgettable experience. Port Phillip Bay is a mecca for marine life – from dolphins and playful seals to vibrant reef fish. Jump onboard a Sea All Dolphin Swims tour to swim alongside dolphins in their natural habitat.

Before making your way to the heart of Melbourne, stop by the beach suburb of St Kilda. Walk to the iconic bathing boxes of Brighton Beach, release your inner daredevil at Luna Park and say “cheers” beachside at the laid-back Republica bar.

Arrive in Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital. Known for its world-class coffee, eclectic arts scene and evolving food culture, it’s a city that invites exploration. If time allows, linger for a few days to experience its must-do highlights.