7 days of cities, countryside and outback
Take in the iconic sights of Sydney, sample Canberra’s cool-climate wines and journey into the awe-inspiring outback. This seven-day adventure from Sydney to Darwin via Canberra will leave you feeling energised.
Trip overview
Must-do experiences:
- Climb to the summit of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Visit Canberra’s charming cool-climate wine regions
- Go on a helicopter ride over outback floodplains
Day 1: Bondi Beach
Start your adventure at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, where you can get a taste of the coastal life.
Brunch to your heart’s content
From Bills’ famous ricotta hotcakes to the Depot’s laid-back Aussie classics, you’ll want to bring your appetite to Bondi’s brunch scene. Somehow, the fresh produce tastes even better when you’re eating it beachside.
Catch waves with the locals
Have a go at riding Bondi’s iconic waves during a surfing lesson. Let’s Go Surfing will teach you everything you need to know to catch your first wave, from safety and technique to the unwritten rules of surfing.
Go on a coastal walk
Follow the 6km (3.5mi) Bondi to Coogee track to experience some of the best views – and beaches – in Sydney. Or walk in the opposite direction, following the Bondi to Manly trail towards Watson’s Bay.
Take a dip in an ocean pool
Sydney’s ocean pools are simply dreamy. These saltwater pools are replenished as ocean waves splash over the edge. Dip into the blue waters of Bondi Icebergs (after snapping a photo of the iconic view) or the nearby Bronte Beach pool.
Day 2: Sydney Harbour and Manly
Experience heritage, history and breathtaking icons around Sydney’s sparkling harbour. Spend your day doing some of these incredible experiences.
Kayak around Sydney Harbour
Watch Sydney wake up while you paddle around the harbour during a Sunrise Kayak experience. It’s a pinch-me moment as the sun comes over the horizon. Plus, there’s even room for your fresh cup of coffee on board.
Take the ferry to Manly
Get a different perspective of the city on the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly. There’s plenty to do once you’re there. Shop the markets, hang out at beachside bars, surf on Manly Beach or hike the coastal trails.
Go on an Aboriginal bushtucker tour
Explore Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden with an Indigenous guide to learn about the garden’s Aboriginal bush foods. You’ll hear about traditional uses for certain plants and even taste some of the native foods along the way.
Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge
When it comes to Sydney viewpoints, the summit of the Harbour Bridge is at the top of the list. Pull on your uniform and harness and climb to the top, taking in phenomenal 360-degree views as your guide shares fascinating stories along the way.
Go behind the scenes at a distillery
Based in the historic neighbourhood of The Rocks on Sydney Harbour, Hickson House oozes heritage charm. Take a Distillery Tour to learn the craft of distilling and sample native botanical-infused gin and whisky.
Day 3: Sydney to Canberra
Depart Sydney today and drive three hours through the rolling countryside to reach Australia’s capital, Canberra. Stop in Murrumbateman along the way to taste cool-climate wines.
Stop at a quaint countryside town
Just 1.5 hours from Sydney, Bowral is the Southern Highland’s biggest town and undoubtedly one of the most charming. Wander the main street to find quaint cafés and boutiques. There’s also great antique shopping to be found.
Chase waterfalls
Waterfalls aren’t hard to come by in the Southern Highlands. Stop by the awe-inspiring Fitzroy, Belmore and Carrington Falls – easily accessed by a short walking trail. Stop by the Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre for information about the area.
Sip cool-climate wines
Sample cool-climate wines at one (or several) of Murrumbateman’s tranquil boutique vineyards, many of which are family-owned and operated. If you’ve got a taste for adventure, explore the region on an e-bike wine tour.
Say “cheers” at a brewery
In Canberra, pull up a chair at Bentspoke Brewing Co. – a sustainably-minded brewery pub. You’ll enjoy the friendly locals behind the bar, as well as the bold, flavoursome beers. The buzzing atmosphere is a bonus.
Day 4: Canberra to Darwin
Spend a leisurely day around Canberra before flying to the tropical city of Darwin on an evening flight. Here are a few epic experiences you could do before you fly.
Take to the skies for sunrise
Witness one of Australia’s best sunrises. On a hot air balloon experience, you’ll float peacefully above Lake Burley Griffin while the world wakes up beneath you. Be sure to bundle up; mornings can be chilly in Canberra.
Enjoy the capital’s coffee
Being the coffee-loving nation that we are, it only makes sense that our capital boasts a blossoming coffee scene. Try the city’s best coffee brewed by expert baristas, and grab a classic Aussie breakfast while you’re there.
Visit Canberra’s collection of museums
Get to know Canberra’s cultural side by exploring the city’s impressive collection of museums. There’s something for everyone, from futuristic science museums to a gallery housing only portraits of famous Aussies.
Hit the lake
Lake Burley Griffin is often considered the heart of Canberra, so there’s always plenty of locals enjoying the water and foreshore. Have a picnic on your own private GoBoat, go on a paddleboarding adventure or ride a bike on the lake’s edge.
See koalas at Tidbinbillda
Head out of the city to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, which boasts beautiful nature and wildlife. Here, you can spot koalas, learn about the region’s Aboriginal culture and connect with the bushland along the reserve’s walking tracks.
Day 5: Darwin
Darwin oozes adventure. From jet skiing around shipwrecks to crocodile encounters, there’s always room for excitement in Darwin. On your first day in the Northern Territory’s capital, try some of these top activities.
Jet ski to Darwin’s shipwreck
Ready for a history lesson with a difference? Speed over the ocean to Darwin’s shipwrecks, which were bombed and sunk during WWII, on a jet ski tour. Learn about the history of this fascinating heritage site that lies beneath the surface.
Come face-to-face with crocodiles
Get close up to giant saltwater crocodiles at Crocosaurus Cove. If you’re feeling brave, try the Cage of Death for a hair-raising crocodile experience. Beyond crocs, you can see reptile shows starring snakes and lizards.
Take a trip back in time
Unique historical experiences abound at Darwin’s museums and galleries. Meet Sweetheart, a 5.1m (16.7ft) long saltwater crocodile, ride in a World War II army truck and relive historic bombing stories of the city.
Cruise into golden hour
Set sail for a spectacular Darwin sunset. Kick back on a catamaran as you float around the harbour, and enjoy drinks and dinner as the sky glows golden. It’s the perfect end to a day in tropical Darwin.
Go to the Mindil Beach Sunset Market
If you’re visiting from Thursday to Sunday, watch the sunset with Asian-inspired eats from Mindil Beach Sunset Market. Much loved by locals, these markets serve up everything from laksa to grilled seafood at sizzling food stalls.
Day 6: Darwin to Litchfield National Park
Hop in the car (or join a guided tour) and make your way to Litchfield National Park. Famous for its waterfalls and bizarre termite mounds, Litchfield is a nature lover’s dream.
Cool off at the waterfront
Before you leave for Litchfield, head to Darwin’s waterfront to grab a bite to eat with a view. There’s also a beautiful man-made lagoon perfect for a relaxing swim, or an Aqua Park for a little bit more action.
Swim at the idyllic Berry Springs
On your way to Litchfield, stop by Berry Springs Nature Park for the perfect introduction to the Top End’s natural plunge pools. Enjoy a picnic under the forest canopy and feel rejuvenated in Berry Creek’s serene waters.
Join the ultimate Top End safari
Go on an overnight Top End Safari tour for a true outback adventure. The tour blends helicopter rides, crocodile encounters, scenic cruises and luxury glamping to give you the full outback experience.
Make a splash at Litchfield’s falls
If you love waterfalls, then you’re in luck. Litchfield National Park is full of walking tracks that lead straight to trickling falls. Wangi Falls is one of the best, where a natural plunge pool welcomes you to cool off.
Day 7: Litchfield to Darwin (or beyond)
From Litchfield, you can either head back to Darwin or discover more of the Top End’s magical national parks, like Kakadu. Here are a few more things to do in Litchfield before you depart.
Marvel at tall termite mounds
Litchfield is full of natural wonders, but perhaps none are as bizarre as the Magnetic Termite Mounds. Hundreds of these mounds rise from the flat plain and boast heights of up to two metres (7ft) tall. Use the boardwalk to get up close.
Admire the view of Tolmer Falls
Accessible for people of all abilities, the viewing platform above Tolmer Falls is the perfect spot to take in the view. The platform is only 400m (a quarter mile) from the car park, but you can make the return journey via Tolmer Creek.
Drive Nature’s Way
A scenic route that links two of the Northern Territory’s most stunning national parks, Nature’s Way is a road trip you won’t forget. Freshwater swimming holes, Aboriginal rock art sites and epic escarpments are just the beginning.