Classic Australia: Sydney, Red Centre, Cairns, Melbourne 02 Jun, 2025

Independent/Tailor-Made / Australia

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Amazing Experience

Overview

Trip Overview

Special Offer Details

Explore Australia’s famous cities and natural wonders on this ideal Downunder journey—a perfect introduction to the land Down Under. Pricing based on low season travel.

This perfect 12-day introduction to Australia pairs cosmopolitan cities with natural wonders including Ayers Rock and The Great Barrier Reef, along with the chance to get up close and personal with the native wildlife.

Diverse and historic Sydney greets visitors with its sparkling harbour, iconic Harbour Bridge, and the unforgettable Sydney Opera House. Your included ferry ticket allows you to enjoy all three, including entry to Taronga Zoo, where you can say ‘G’day’ to kangaroos, koalas and other natives as well as many international guests. 

The ultimate outback icon, Uluru or Ayers Rock is a site deeply shrouded in myth and legend. This is a sacred place to the Anangu, the local Aboriginal people and sunset over “The Rock” will be a highlight of your journey. Go on to spectacular Kings Canyon and explore the eerie, alien landscape of its sandstone domes, before your desert outback adventure concludes with a night in Alice Springs (aka ‘The Alice’).

Tropical Cairns offers a dazzling array of wildlife amid lush forest surrounds. You’ll visit the Great Barrier Reef for a close encounter with the abundant sea life of the world’s largest coral reef system. Then climb aboard an amphibious army duck for a trip into Kuranda’s scenic rainforest, where an authentic taste of Aboriginal culture, including a ‘Dreamtime’ walk and the chance to throw a boomerang await.

Australia’s cultural capital, Melbourne offers world-class shopping, a thriving arts scene, beautiful urban parks, and endless restaurant options, which combine to seduce culture vultures, foodies, and casual visitors alike. Early arrivals can catch a ride on its famous trams, or for a uniquely Melbourne experience, book a table at the Tramcar Restaurant. Your second day includes a city tour, plus an evening tour to Phillip Island to see the world-renowned Little Penguin Parade.

Highlights

Departures

Monday and Wednesday from Melbourne*
* This trip is offered in a reverse direction from Sydney

 

Trip Includes

  • Private arrival and departure airport transfers in Sydney and Melbourne
  • Shared arrival and departure airport transfers in Ayers Rock, Alice Springs and Cairns
  • 3 nights first-class accommodation in Sydney
  • 2 night first-class accommodation in Ayers Rock
  • 3 nights first-class accommodation in Cairns
  • 3 nights first-class accommodation in Melbourne
  • Shared Lanes and Arcades Tour in Melbourne
  • Shared Melbourne City Tour
  • Shared Phillip Island Penguin and Moonlit Sanctuary Small Group Tour
  • Shared Great Ocean Road Small Group Tour
  • Shared Kata Tjuta Domes Tour
  • Shared Kings Night at Field of Light Tour
  • Shared Kings Canyon and Outback Panoramas
  • Shared Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner Tour
  • Shared Uluru Highlights
  • Shared Outer Barrier Reef Cruise in Cairns
  • Shared Kuranda Classic Tour with Skyrail and Rainforestation
  • Shared Sensational Sydney City Tour
  • Shared Sydney Opera House Tour and Dine
  • Shared Blue Mountains Deluxe Experience
  • 2 lunches

 

Trip Excludes

  • Travel insurance
  • International, domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
  • Gratuities
  • Optional excursions
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Visa fees, if applicable

Summary

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please enquire.

Melbourne Airport to Melbourne - City Centre

 

Lanes and Arcades Tour Afternoon

Have you ever been to a city and wondered what all the fuss was about? Or wasted time trying to find that cool local café you were told of, and ended up missing everything? Melbourne's arcades and laneways hide many of these answers. Join this indulgent afternoon walk through Melbourne's beautiful back streets, and get orientated in the life of the city that locals love. Discover artisanal and specialty retailers, that often are only found in the city. Some of the quirkiest cafes, independent designers, street art, architecture, and historical tales are found in these walkways. Soak in the city via all your senses, and engage with passionate creatives. There is something for everyone, locals and visitors alike.

 

Crown Promenade Hotel

3 Night Stay

Meal Plan: Room Only

Crown Promenade Melbourne is a top choice for the savvy traveller who seeks functionality, location and genuine service with the amenities you expect, and the extras you deserve.

Crown Promenade Hotel

Morning Melbourne City Tour

Welcome to Melbourne, a city of contrasts, world famous sporting arenas and historic gardens. Be dazzled by the wondrous sights of Australia's most vibrant city and learn about Melbourne's fascinating history with your expert guide. Join a small group tour with Oceania to make the most of your stay as you zoom in and around the city, visiting such wonders as Federation Square, the MCG and our world-famous sports precinct, St Patrick's Cathedral, Albert Park Lake (Formula 1) and over to St Kilda Beach. You can even take a stroll in the gardens and visit St Patrick's Cathedral when permitted. Visit world famous Albert Park, home of the Formula One, Australian Grand Prix as well as our inner-city sports precinct, home to the famous MCG and Melbourne Park where the Australian Tennis Open takes place. There will be a maximum of 11 people in your group, so you will have plenty of opportunities to ask your guide questions and get to know your fellow travellers.

 

Phillip Island Penguin and Moonlit Sanctuary Small Group Tour

Let Oceania Tours whisk you away to discover Phillip Island's unique nature experiences and dramatic landscapes. Your small group tour will help to further the protection and conservation of the local fauna and flora. We drive south-east from Melbourne to reach Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park where you will meet endangered species, kangaroos, wallabies and koalas plus an array of colourful birds and reptiles.   Our journey then leads onto Phillip Island, the home of the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix and our famous Little Penguins. Upon arrival on the island, depending on the time of year and your particular interests, we will visit Woolamai beach to see surfers riding the waves. From here, we go to the western corner of the island to enjoy magnificent views of Bass Strait and the Nobbies, which is home to the largest colony of fur seals in Australia. During the daylight savings months, you will travel to the town of Cowes where you will have free time for dinner. In the winter months you can have something to eat at the Penguin Parade Visitor Center or wait for your early arrival back at your city hotel. Finally, a trip to Phillip Island is not complete without its black tie gala event: the Penguin Parade. You will head to the Visitor Centre to shop, have a coffee and meander along the boardwalk to the viewing platform where you will see the little penguins come ashore, decked out in their tuxedos as they hurry off to find their burrows. On this tour, you will be treated to viewing the penguins at the special Penguins Plus viewing platform close to the little penguins' favourite spot to exit the water.

Experience this majestic coastal drive-in style with your small group and enjoy time to relax and fully appreciate the wonders of this world-famous touring route. Stay on the lookout for some very special animals including whales, dolphins, echidnas and bandicoots. Your camera will get a good workout along this exciting journey where we will stop for plenty of photo opportunities. To begin, your expert Oceania Guide will collect you from your Melbourne hotel to commence your exciting road trip. Your next stop will be at Apollo Bay, a tranquil seaside town which is most noteworthy for its setting among the soft rolling hills. It offers a great selection of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy some lunch (not included). Following this, we will enjoy a walk in the forest in the Otway Ranges. A truly unique day out, capped off by a visit to the ancient rock formations of the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. Finally, your Oceania guide will transfer you back to the comfort of your hotel in Melbourne. We plant a native tree for every passenger on our Great Ocean Road Tour.

Melbourne - City Centre to Melbourne Airport

 

Ayers Rock Airport to Ayers Rock Resort

 

SEIT Kata Tjuta Domes

Travel to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) where your guide will reveal the many attributes of this diverse environment. Arriving at Walpa Gorge you will walk between the mighty conglomerate domes and hear how these 36 domes that makeup Kata Tjuta have evolved over millions of years. Your guide will return you to your hotel in time for those joining Sounds of Silence or Tali Wiru dinner or Field of Lights.

 

A Night at Field of Light

This exclusive dining experience combines the award-winning 'Sounds of Silence' dinner under the outback sky with the once-in-a-lifetime Field of Light art installation. With magnificent views of Uluru at sunset, a three-course bush tucker menu, a premium selection of Australian wines and beers, fascinating star talk and a self-guided walk through the Field of Light art installation, your 'A Night at Field of Light' experience is complete. The evening begins with a convenient hotel pick-up and a transfer to the remote desert location with majestic views of Uluru. As the sun sets on the horizon to the music of a didgeridoo, enjoy gourmet canapes and chilled sparkling wine. As darkness falls and the coloured lights of the 50,000 glass spheres gently come to life, join your table of fellow travelers for an exceptional three-course menu infused with bush tucker flavours. As the night ignites with countless stars, settle back and listen to our resident star talker decode the southern night sky. The host will provide insights into the art installation that awaits you, before you are invited to immerse yourself in the Field of Light, its pathways glistening softly with rhythms of coloured light, beckoning you to explore. After dinner, guests are welcomed back at the dune viewing area to enjoy a sweet treat, hot chocolate or port whilst viewing the illuminated installation in the darkness.

 

Sails in the Desert Hotel

2 Night Stay

Meal Plan: Room Only

Indulgent escapes await at Sails in the Desert, where soaring white sails shade 228 lavishly appointed rooms and suites. Cool off in the sparkling swimming pool lined with lush gumtrees, or linger over unique Australian flavors paired perfectly with your favorite regional wines at one of the resort's dining, lounge, and bar options. Relax in the brasserie-style Ilkari Restaurant, unwind after a day of exploring with cocktails and Indigenous-inspired cuisine in the Walpa Lobby Bar, or curl up on one of the daybeds and enjoy a casual lunch and beverage by the pool.

Sails in the Desert Hotel

Kings Canyon and Outback Panoramas

Travel from Ayers Rock Resort to Kings Canyon, stopping for breakfast at Kings Creek Station (included) along the way. Make the rocky climb to the rim of the canyon for marvelous views of Watarrka National Park. Follow the rim of the canyon stopping to look down into the canyon gorge at look-out points. Time permitting, you may choose to descend into the green oasis of the "Garden of Eden". The circuit walk takes approximately 3 hours to complete and is rocky and steep in parts. It is recommended for those with a good level of fitness. Alternatively, you may wish to take an easier, shorter walk to explore the boulder-strewn canyon floor. After lunch (own expense), return to Ayers Rock Resort.

 

Wintjiri Wiru After Dark

Your Wintjiri Wiru experience begins deep in the desert. After a short journey from Ayers Rock Resort, take a gentle stroll through the desert along an elevated walkway until you reach the open-air theatre, set upon a dune top with incredible views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. With the heart of Australia as the backdrop, a story passed on for thousands of generations, now passes to you. Witness the ancient Mala story re-told like never before with ground-breaking technology. Choreographed drones, lasers, and projections will take flight, lighting up the night sky in a modern, artistic expression of an ancient, Anangu story. Feel a powerful connection to country as you listen to a traditional Inma soundtrack and narration in the local Pitjantjatjara language, and immerse yourself in a living story.

SEIT Uluru Highlights

As you travel towards Uluru its vast shape rises from the sand dunes as the early dawn light highlights it presence in this country. Your guide will take you to a special location with uninterrupted views to watch the sun rise over this amazing monolith. Enjoy a picnic breakfast before you experience the highlights of Uluru. Your guide will escort you on a short walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole at Uluru where you will learn the creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (Python). You will drive around the base of Uluru before returning to the resort.

 

Ayers Rock Resort to Ayers Rock Airport

 

Cairns Airport to Cairns - City Centre

 

Pacific Hotel Cairns

3 Night Stay

Meal Plan: Room Only

Located on the Esplanade overlooking Trinity Harbour, Pacific Hotel Cairns offers stunning views from private balconies and easy access to the nearby Reef Fleet Terminal, shopping precinct and Esplanade Lagoon. The modern rooms offer comfortable accommodation for all travellers and if you’re looking for a luxurious upgrade, you can’t go past our Tropical Luxe Room Collection.

Pacific Hotel Cairns

Quicksilver Outer Barrier Reef Cruise from Cairns or Northern Beaches Hotels

For an experience of a lifetime, Quicksilver's wave piercing catamarans and friendly crew will take you to a reef at the very edge of Australia's Continental Shelf, to an underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour and brilliance. Agincourt Reef is a magnificent ribbon reef where you can experience first-hand the magic that is the Great Barrier Reef. Choose to dive (extra cost), snorkel, or stay dry and explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a semi-sub, just one metre underwater. Watch the fish feeding from a unique underwater viewing platform and underwater observatory, or fly in a helicopter over the reef (extra cost). Whichever way you choose; you'll bring home a lifetime of memories from this living natural wonder.

Kuranda Classic Tour with Train Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Rainforestation

The Classic Kuranda Experience includes the main attractions of Kuranda, but gives you more free time to explore Kuranda. You will travel to Kuranda by scenic railway and then spend some free time in the village. Wander through the many shops and local markets, which offer a full range of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and gifts. You will then be transferred to Rainforestation Nature Park, where you will enjoy a delicious Australian BBQ lunch, a guided tour of the rainforest on board an amphibious Army Duck, and the Pamagirri Aboriginal Dance performance, followed by the Dreamtime Walk. You will learn how to throw a boomerang, see a spear-throwing demonstrations, and learn about aboriginal culture. A guided tour of the Koala and Wildlife Park will commence at the Cultural Centre. Your coach will then transfer you to Kuranda Skyrail Terminal for the 7.5 kilometre Skyrail Rainforest Cableway journey down the mountain. Your coach will then return you to your accommodation.

Cairns - City Centre to Cairns Airport

 

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport to Sydney - City Centre

 

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney

3 Night Stay

Meal Plan: Room Only

A beautiful hotel with a stunning 1800's sandstone facade, the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney is an intimate, boutique-style property. Once home to the Fairfax newspaper empire and the prestigious Bank of New South Wales, this accommodation offers a location near Sydney Opera House and major shopping precincts. There is a wide array of upscale facilities, including on-site dining at the recently refurbished restaurant and a modern health club. The staff ensures that your stay at this accommodation in Sydney is both comfortable and unforgettable.

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney

Join Sensational Sydney Cruises on a full day of touring by sea & land. Sea Begin your day with a sensational morning tea cruise. A unique, two hour cruise experience. Enjoy the company of a small group aboard a 52 foot motor yacht. Your personal captain & host will share the rich history of Sydney Harbour and its foreshore as you take in the sites of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House and the bays and coves of Sydney Harbour. Enjoy lite morning tea with coffee, tea, juice, water and 5-star service. Departs from Commissioners Steps, Circular Quay. This is located in front of the Museum of Contemporary Art Cruise departs 10am sharp (please arrive 15 minutes prior), returns 12:00. Lunch 12:00-13:15pm Explore the “Rocks” and have lunch on your own (at own expense). Land Meet your small group city sights Tour at The Four Seasons Hotel - Harrington Street. 1:15 sharp (you can enter the Four Season Lobby from Georgie Street and go up 3 level to get to this entrance) for an unforgettable Panoramic Sydney half day tour. Visit Sydney’s trendy districts, superb coastal cliff walks and famous Bondi Beach. Your personal guide will entertain you along the way. Departs The Four Seasons Hotel - Harrington Street. (you can enter the Four Season Lobby from Georgie Street and go up 3 level to get to this entrance) 13:20 sharp (please arrive 15 minutes prior) return to your hotel 17:00

The Blue Mountains National Park is one of seven national parks that make up the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. This wonderland of sandstone outcrops, deep ravines and hazy blue eucalypt forests boasts luxury retreats and stunning views. Today your guide will take you off the beaten track to visit remote lookout locations and discuss the history, flora and fauna of this magnificent region. 7:00 - 7:30 AM Depart from the hotel with AEA Luxury Tours. Our first stop of the day is at Calmsley Hill a working farm also home to Kangaroos, Emus, Wombats and Koalas. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure. From Calmsley Hill we continue to ascend the Blue Mountains via the highway. We will visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of the Jamison Valley seeing beautiful vistas. Where possible this will be away from the crowds of tours that visit the mountains each day with other operators, thus our guests will enjoy a stress and hurry free environment taking in the views and information imparted by their guide. Continuing on we arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout points away from the crowds for views of the famous 3 Sisters. Whilst the Blue Mountains features so much more than this natural attraction you can't help but admire the unquestionable beauty of this amazing rock formation. The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day and throughout the seasons as the sunlight brings out the magnificent colors. Here your guide will discuss the legends behind this famous rock formation and time available for you to take some great photos. We then make our way around the mountain towards the village of Blackheath and our lunch venue the Hydro Majestic. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views. We enjoy a 2-course lunch with tea/coffee. All diets are catered for (excluding Kosher Meals). Beverages can be purchased at your own expense from the Bar. The afternoon is spent visiting a selection of lookouts. Once you clap your eyes on the view from Govetts Leap you'll know why it's one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff. If you're not mesmerized by the dancing waves of water spray, you'll be transfixed by the sweeping views down the valley to the Grose Wilderness. We then stop briefly to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice at the delightful Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens our last stop, where we enjoy the sweeping views across to Sydney before travelling down the Bells Line of Road to arrive back at your hotel approximately 4:30 - 5:00 pm.

Sydney - City Centre to Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport

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