Discover Australia

This is the ultimate journey of Australian discovery as you enjoy the sights of Western Australia before heading for Alice Springs and the Red Centre with iconic Ayers Rock and Kata Tjuta. On then to the tropical Queensland coast and one of the world’s natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef, where you’ll see marine life the likes of which you’ll see nowhere else. Heading south you’ll visit Melbourne, a vibrant city with a European vibe and one time Aussie capital. End your voyage of discovery in cosmopolitan Sydney with its iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House and fabulous shopping and beaches.

What's Included

• 17 nights accommodation as shown, based on two sharing
• Sightseeing as described
• Meals on days shown
• Baggage handling – 1 bag per person
• Travel by luxury air-conditioned coach
• Professional Tour Director
• Airport transfers on arrival and departure

Day 1 - Perth - Freemantle

On arrival at Perth Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the colourful port city of Fremantle. Hotel for 3 nights: The Esplanade by Rydges Hotel

Day 2 - Perth & Swan River Cruise

Travel by coach into Perth, the sun-blessed capital of Western Australia for a guided sightseeing tour of the city’s many highlights, including the untouched bushland, Botanic Gardens and walkways of beautiful Kings Park. Afterwards, return to Fremantle on a leisurely cruise along the picturesque Swan River. Located at the mouth of the Swan River, Fremantle is famous for its wonderful beaches, as well as its well-preserved colonial architecture. Enjoy a welcome dinner tonight. Breakfast included.

Day 3 - Fremantle at Leisure

At leisure for optional sightseeing; perhaps visit the Western Australian Maritime Museum or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Fremantle Markets. Or perhaps take a cruise to the historic Swan Valley Wine Region and enjoy a tasting of some premium local wines or maybe visit beautiful Rottnest Island. Breakfast included

Day 4 - Fremantle - Alice Springs

Transfer to Perth Airport for the flight to the red heart of Australia, Alice Springs (flight not included). Nestled between the MacDonnell Ranges, this iconic Outback town is the geographical centre of Australia made famous by its rich pioneering history and enchanting ancient indigenous culture. Breakfast included

Hotel for 2 nights: Chifley Alice Springs Resort

Day 5 - Alice Springs

Early this morning, you may like to take an awe-inspiring balloon flight over the desert at sunrise (own expense), before joining the rest of the group to enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding MacDonnell Ranges from Anzac Hill. Enjoy the remainder of the morning at leisure before visiting the Royal Flying Doctor Service and School of the Air. Breakfast included.

Day 6 - Alice Springs - Kata Tjuta - Uluru (Ayers Rock)

The Australian Outback comes to life today as you travel through rugged landscapes to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Discovered by explorers in 1872, Uluru is one of Australia’s most famous and sacred sites. Visit the rock domes and peaks of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and walk to Walpa Gorge, then enjoy a glass of wine while watching the sunset over Uluru. Tonight, there is the opportunity to join a unique optional experience - the Sounds of Silence Dinner - where you’ll dine on Australian delicacies whilst seated under the canopy of the desert night (own expense). Breakfast included

Hotel: Desert Gardens Hotel

Day 7 - Uluru - Cairns

This morning marvel at the magnificent sunrise over Uluru and take a guided tour around the base of this famous monolith, viewing ancient caves and fascinating indigenous rock art sites. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a dramatic change of scenery as you fly from the heart of Australia’s Red Centre to the sparkling blue waters and lush green rainforests of Cairns in Tropical North Queensland (flight not included). This evening is at leisure. Breakfast included.

Hotel for 2 nights: Pullman Cairns International

Day 8 - Great Barrier Reef

Experience a real highlight today as you cruise from Cairns by fast catamaran to Reef Magic’s exclusive activity platform and enjoy five hours amidst the colourful coral and marine life. Snorkel in the sheltered coral lagoon, walk through the underwater observatory, join a guided tour on the semi-submersible or glass bottom boat, or simply relax on the spacious sundeck, before enjoying a lunch of local specialties. On return to the mainland, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 9 - Cairns - Port Douglas

Head north this morning and as the road hugs the coastline you’ll experience the sight of tropical Daintree Rainforest meeting sparkling seas and the Barrier Reef. Every twist and turn in the road brings a different view that will simply blow you away as you journey to the holiday resort of Port Douglas, a haven for sailors, divers and snorkellers and home to the fabulous Four Mile Beach. Breakfast included.

Hotel for 2 nights: Peppers Beach Club

Day 10 - Port Douglas

A day to relax and explore on your own; perhaps you’ll explore the shops and bars on Macrossan Street, take a snorkelling or diving trip, or maybe head inland and explore Mossman Gorge, the Daintree Rainforest or head north to Cape Tribulation.

Day 11 - Port Douglas - Melbourne

Return to Cairns and fly south to the city of Melbourne (flight not included). With its cutting-edge designs and heritage architecture, spacious parks and diverse village-like suburbs, fabulous arts and world-class sporting action, you’ll quickly understand why Victoria’s vibrant capital is considered one of the most liveable cities in the world. Breakfast included.

Hotel for 3 nights: Rydges Melbourne.

Day 12 - Melbourne

Today enjoy a day of sightseeing. On a city tour you’ll explore the highlights of this wonderful city, including the historic landmark Cooks’ Cottage, situated in the beautiful heritage-listed Fitzroy Gardens. Built in 1755, Cooks’ Cottage is the oldest building in Australia; originally located in Yorkshire, and built by the parents of Captain James Cook, the cottage was brought to Melbourne in 1934. Federation Square and the Royal Botanical Gardens are also on your itinerary before you head to the wine country and the Yarra valley for a wine region lunch.

Day 13 - Melbourne at Leisure

Today is completely free for you to explore Melbourne at leisure or perhaps take an optional tour. Perhaps a cruise on the Yarra River to enjoy unique views of the Melbourne skyline; discover the breathtaking coastal scenery, native flora and fauna, and intriguing towns along the Great Ocean Road on a full-day tour; or enjoy a memorable dinner aboard the historic Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. Breakfast included

Day 14 - Melbourne - Sydney

After one last morning to take in the sights, fly to Sydney (flight not included). Transfer to your hotel, just a short stroll from Circular Quay. Wrapped around a spectacular harbour, this glamorous city is home to the instantly recognisable icons of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Breakfast included

Hotel for 4 nights: Amora Jamison

Day 15 - Sydney Sightseeing

Discover a selection of Sydney’s most incredible sights on a guided city tour this morning. During the day you’ll also take to the water for a relaxing cruise on Sydney Harbour, then step inside the Sydney Opera House for an enchanting guided tour. Your day culminates with a traditional fish ‘n’ chip dinner on Bondi Beach this evening. Breakfast, and feature dinner included.

Day 16 - Sydney at Leisure

Enjoy a day at leisure. Alternatively, you may like to head to the Blue Mountains National Park; or savour fine wines and explore the stunning gardens in the Hunter Valley (both at own expense). Breakfast included.

Day 17 - Sydney at Leisure

Appreciate a further day at leisure, or perhaps join one of the optional experiences. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of Sydney’s famous coast and waterways aboard a seaplane; or climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge to discover the scale and grandeur of this inspiring global icon (both at own expense). This evening enjoy a Farewell Drink and Dinner. Breakfast and feature dinner included.

Day 18 - Depart Sydney

You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Breakfast included.