No trip to Australia is complete without a visit to our world famous landmarks, places that put Australia on the map. In all the states and territories, a visitor can find excellent tourist destinations and accommodations for all budgets. From natural wonders to man-made structures, there is plenty to see and do.
Sydney Opera House
One of Australia’s most recognizable landmarks, the beautiful white sails of the Sydney Opera House rise up overlooking the harbour. Inaugurated in 1973, it hosts more than three thousand performances a year. Take a guided tour and admire the unique architecture, or better yet, reserve a seat for an opera, ballet, symphony orchestra or theater performance.
the sydney harbor bridge
Another landmark that foreigners instantly recognize as Australia’s, the Sydney Harbor Bridge is also known as The Coat Hanger. Opened in 1932, it rises one hundred and thirty-four meters above the port at its highest point. Connecting Sydney’s north and south shores for travel by car, bike, train and foot, you can now scale the bridge’s steel frame. The Sydney Harbor Bridge Climb has been available to the public since 1998. There are different climbs available and it is one of Australia’s top tourist attractions.
Uluru
Formerly known as Ayers Rock, Uluru is the largest piece of rock in the world. Similar to an iceberg, much of its mass is hidden underground, but it has a height of three hundred and forty-eight meters. Guided walking tours are available around its perimeter. The rock could once be climbed, but is now prohibited due to conservation. Uluru offers fantastic photo opportunities as the rock appears to change color from sunrise to sunset, and when it rains.
Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the only living structure that can be seen from space, stretching over 300,000 square kilometers along the Queensland coast. The coral reef is home to a wide variety of tropical fish, marine life and beautiful colored corals. It is a major tourist destination and is accessible from many parts of the Queensland coast. Tourists can stay in a hotel on the mainland or in one of the many resorts on the island.
Cooper Pedy
Located in South Australia, Cooper Pedy was first established in 1915 with the opening of an opal mine. A unique location, the area is devoid of trees and most of its residents live in underground houses. In the early days, when there was no air conditioning, people built these underground houses to escape the heat. Today the practice continues and visitors can stay in an underground motel.
kangaroo island
For those who want to see lots of wildlife on their vacation, Kangaroo Island is a must-see. True to its name, there are kangaroos but also koalas, wallabies, platypus and seal colonies. The island is also famous for its excellent seafood and local produce. There are many caves and rock formations to explore, as well as historical sites.