Sydney CBD can be divided into a number of different areas, each of which offers its own unique experiences and atmosphere when it comes to eating out. Whether you fancy Indian, Chinese, Greek, Italian or just good old Australian tucker, a light snack or a five course feast, you will never be short of options when eating out in Sydney. In the following areas you will also find a hotel to suit any budget.

The Rocks

The Rocks is a historic area that hides a number of restaurants amongst its 19^th Century buildings. Here you can expect a lively and tourist-friendly atmosphere, and a mixture of food outlets to suit all budgets. As well as the usual range of take away chains along the harbour, those seeking a light meal can choose from freshly cooked noodles at the Wok On Inn Noodle Bar, gluten-free options at DARE, and Japanese cuisine at Hero Sushi Box.

Those looking for something a little more substantial have many unique dining options. Just some of the recommended restaurants include Altitude, which offers spectacular views of the Sydney skyline, more Japanese fare at Nakashima, and award-winning seafood at Rockpool.

Circular Quay

Circular Quay lies on the northern edge of the CBD, just a short walk from the Rocks, and boasts a good number of restaurants interspersed with shopping outlets and bars. Many of these offer great views out over Sydney Cove.

Cafe Sydney Lounge describes itself as ‘Modern Australian’, though it is the seafood that draws many visitors to its rooftop location. More Australian cuisine can be enjoyed at Peter Doyle at the Quay, where the traditional fish and chips are a particular favourite. Also consider Rossini (Italian) and Haemil (Korean).

Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour is one of the city’s premier destinations for eating and entertainment, with no less than 40 restaurants split across King Street Wharf, Cockle Bay and Harbourside. Whether you are enjoying a spot of shopping and fancy a quick bite to eat, or if you are planning a romantic meal for two at a stylish waterfront restaurant, Darling Harbour has something to offer.

The Harbourside shopping centre offers a good mix of casual and fine dining options, epitomised by the open-air Jordan’s Seafood Restaurant, the traditional Italian flavours of Al Ponte and the all-day accessibility of Olivio, where you can pop in for breakfast, lunch or dinner. There is also a food court here, offering everything from spicy Indian dishes to freshly-made sushi.

King Street Wharf is home to some of the most popular restaurants in the city, including the Mediterranean ambience of Georges Bar & Grill and the value for money Wagamama.

Many of the restaurants in Cockle Bay offer waterfront views, including the funky and modern Ice Cube Seafood Grill and the renowned Nick’s Seafood Restaurant.

Haymarket

Adjacent to Darling Harbour, Haymarket is home to Sydney’s Chinatown, so it is perhaps unsurprising that Asian dishes are the order of the day here. Visitors can choose from food halls that allow you a large portion of various dishes for just a few dollars – such as the 24-outlet Market City shopping centre, noodle bars, and small cafe restaurants for a spot of Yum Cha. Some of the more popular restaurants include Crocodile Senior Thai and Miliore Restaurant, both on George Street.

Kings Cross

Many people regard King’s Cross as a seedy red light district, but substantial recent investment is transforming the area into a modern and vibrant dining option. Modern Australian cuisine can be enjoyed at Iguana – a popular spot with local celebrities, whilst the Bayswater Brasserie offers outdoor dining and Mediterranean dishes. Of course Kings Cross is Kings Cross, and there always will be McDonalds, Hungry Jack’s and the usual other fast food joints to choose from.

Darlinghurst

Just around the corner from Kings Cross lies Darlinghurst, which has a vibrant nightlife, a number of cafe bars and many dozens of restaurants, the majority of which are dispersed along Victoria Street and Stanley Street. This is also the home of Little Italy, with A Tavola, Il Vicoletto and Lucio Pizzeria just some of the many pizza and pasta choices on offer.

Just some of the other options in this area of the city include Mahjong Room (Asian), Raquel’s Spanish Kitchen (Mediterranean, vegetarian friendly) and Mykonos on Crown (Greek).

Coogee, Bondi, Manly and Beyond

Coogee, Bondi and Manly are all suburbs of Sydney that can easily be reached by using the city’s substantial public transport system. Though restaurants can be found in all of these areas, it is beach cafes that are the place to be seen, combining a laid-back atmosphere with light and tasty meals.

There are many other areas of Sydney that offer top-quality eating experiences, both in the CBD and on its outskirts. These include Broadway – home of Thai Lanna (Thai), Dim Sum House (Chinese) and Tomodachi (Japanese), and Dawes Point – which boasts a highly-rated Turkish restaurant in Ottoman Cuisine.

Sydney is home to a plethora of events and festivals that cater for a wide range of tastes. Whether you are attracted to the party atmosphere of the Christmas period, or the more cultural attractions of the Sydney Film Festival in winter, you are sure to enjoy the quality of events that Australia’s most iconic city has to offer.

Summer

Summer is a great time to visit Sydney, when the festivities of the Christmas period combine with the searing hot temperatures to make Christmas on Bondi Beach a particular favourite of many visitors. Just a few days later is New Year’s Eve, with Sydney Harbour arguably the most desirable place to be on the planet when the big countdown begins and the world-famous firework display kicks into action but make sure you book your accommodation in Sydney months in advance as hotels sell out.

The period from December to February is also a busy one with regards to events, and many people stumble out of bed with a Boxing Day hangover in order to witness the start of the Sydney to Hobart Boat Race, the premier event in the Australian yacht racing calendar. Yachts ranging in size from 30-feet to 90-feet start the race from Sydney Harbor, and race a 630 nautical mile course that ends on New Year’s Eve.

The New Year starts with a bang with the Sydney Festival, the country’s largest cultural event. The festival combines outdoor events, music, theatre and arts to attract over one million people every year. January also sees the beginning of the Twilight at Taronga Summer Concert series, a weekly music event held at Taronga Zoo, and Australia Day, the official national day of Australia, which is marked by an array of weird and wonderful activities, often involving cricket and/or alcohol.

February is a busy month for festivals, and most notably Chinese New Year. Traditional entertainment and Chinese food can be enjoyed on the streets of Sydney, culminating in the spectacular Dragon Boat Races along Darling Harbour.

This is also the time of the world famous Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, an extravagant array of daily events that are held over a four week period. The party atmosphere begins in Hyde Park (usually in the second week of February), and culminates with a parade on the last Saturday of the festival.

Autumn

After the extravagance of February, March and April are relatively quiet on the events front, with the Royal Easter Show – an agricultural event that exhibits rodeo, farm machinery and commercial stalls, the only real exception. The 25^th April is also the date of Anzac Day, a public holiday and national day of remembrance for those that fought for their country during the First World War.

Business picks up again during May, and foodies will love the Hunter Valley Harvest Festival, the Kings Cross Food & Wine Festival and the Jazz and Shiraz Food and Wine Festival, as Sydney flaunts in culinary talents to the world.

Winter

The renowned Sydney Film Festival is the biggest event of its type in the Australian calendar, and runs for two weeks in the first half of June. First established back in 1954, the festival has evolved into a major social event, and showcases contemporary films from all around the world.

The newly-launched Sydney Winter Festival occupies the latter half of the month, and is a great place to enjoy roasted chestnuts, outdoor ice skating and other joys of winter as the city heads towards its coldest month. Don’t expect snowflakes though – it has not snowed in Sydney CBD since 1836!

New tastes and culinary trends are back on the agenda during July, with the Good Food & Wine Show. Free samples, cooking demonstrations and exclusive offers can all be enjoyed at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The fact that it is the final month of winter does not put off the competitors in the annual City 2 Surf run, the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. The race is open to all ages and all levels of fitness for the 14km fun run from Hyde Park to Bondi Beach. Some take it seriously, others have a habit of stopping off for a beer along the way – but it’s all in the name of charity.

Spring

The running theme continues into September, but there’s no stopping for quick half during the Sydney Marathon. The course is something of a sightseeing tour, with Sydney Harbour Bridge an integral part of the scenic 26.2 mile route.

Other delights of September include the Darling Harbour Fiesta – a celebration of Latin American and Spanish cultures, and the Festival of the Winds – Australia’s most colourful kite flying event.

There are more niche events to be enjoyed during October, including the bizarre Granny Smith Festival, a weekend-long event to celebrate the accidental discovery of the Granny Smith apple.

October is also a great month for the motor sports enthusiast, with both the Bathurst 1000 race and the Australian International Motor Show to be enjoyed.

With the exception of the Balmain Arts & Crafts Show, November is a quiet month in the Sydney events calendar, but with Christmas, New Year’s Eve and Australia Day all just a few weeks away, perhaps a month off is required to re-charge the batteries.

Located towards the southern end of the state, Brisbane is Queensland’s capital and has a great range of hotels. Many visitors are attracted by the great weather in the city – while summers are hot and humid, winters are mild and offer a great escape from the cooler cities in the south of the country. International visitors too are attracted to Brisbane, for its diverse range of cultural attractions, huge variety of annual festivals and world-class sporting events.

Top Tourist Attractions in Brisbane

Brisbane River, which runs through the centre of the city, draws many of city’s visitors, especially in the summer months. There are lots of different companies operating boat cruises along the river, and a sunset cruise can be a beautiful and relaxing way to end any day. Many of the cruises also combine a commentary along the river with a buffet dinner or lunch, allowing you to sample fresh local seafood while at the same time learning about the history of the area.

Brisbane’s Story Bridge, which crosses the Brisbane River is one of the main sights in the city centre. Although not as impressive from the ground as the great Sydney Harbour Bride, for those who are a little more adventurous, there is the chance to climb the bridge. From the top visitors can get great views of the surrounding areas including the Glass House Mountains, Moreton Bay and Lamington National Park.

Another of Brisbane’s more popular attractions, where visitors are able to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in both World Wars, is the Anzac Square War Memorial. Located against the hustle and bustle of the city centre, the Shrine of Remembrance inside the memorial holds an eternal flame, and looks out onto a serene inner-city getaway inside the parkland below.

Entertainment and Culture

Brisbane has a great entertainment scene, and is particularly noted for both its popular and classical live music scene. The Queensland Performing Arts Centre is generally a one-stop shop for almost any kind of live entertainment, and is the home of most of the city’s stage companies, including Queensland Ballet, Opera Queensland, Queensland Theatre Company and The Queensland Orchestra. The complex also houses several other buildings of interest to culture vultures including the Queensland Art Gallery and the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art.

There are also a whole host of venues to sample Brisbane’s live popular music scene, which was voted by Billboard magazine to be one of the top 5 in the world. Most of these venues are concentrated in the Fortitude Valley area of the city, with some of the best being the Zoo, The Troubador and The Tivoli. This is also the main area to head for those more into their dance and trance than their rock and roll, since most of the main nightclubs are in this area.

Those more interested in sports will also find plenty to occupy their time in Brisbane. Australia seems to excel at many sports, but in Brisbane rugby league is the game of choice. Visitors can get a taste of the action at a Brisbane Broncos or Queensland Maroons game, or if they are in the city at the right time of the year, the State of Origin sees the Queensland state team take on New South Wales. Visitors can also find out a bit more about Aussie Rules at a Brisbane Lions game, or watch the ladies in action at a Brisbane Firebirds netball game.

Natural Attractions

Since Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, surrounded by lush tropical rainforests which are home to so many different animal species, visitors will be pleased to know that some of this can be experienced without straying outside of the city.

The best introduction is at Australia Zoo, created by “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin and his family, offering a different experience to any other zoo you will have ever visited. If you are familiar with the Irwins from their TV show then you should be prepared to meet a whole lot of zookeepers just as crazy, getting in with crocodiles and all sorts of other dangerous creatures to bring you some really entertaining and informative shows. There are also tons of different animal exhibits with species from all over the world represented.

A slightly tamer (and cheaper) experience can be had at Alma Park Zoo, which also holds presentations throughout the day, although of a slightly less nail-biting variety. Visitors may also see another true Australian icon at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or may be able to spot a whole host of native species at the Brisbane Forest Park.

There are also several parklands within the city where visitors are able to relax. South Bank Parklands are the largest and most important, and are built on the site of the World Expo 88. Here visitors can enjoy a tranquil lunch at the area’s many eateries, get some great views of the city on a ride of the Wheel of Brisbane, or hit the beach at Streets Beach, a man-made lagoon construction which features sand, palm trees and other exotic plants. Visitors will also enjoy the different structures which remain in the park from the Expo, such as the Nepal Peace Pagoda.

The Southbank Parklands also host many of the city’s major festivals, including the Ekka in August and the Riverfestival in September. Other good options are the City Botanic Gardens or the Roma Street Parkland near the transit centre.

The Sunshine Coast occupies the area from Caloundra, 100km north of Brisbane, to Cooloola, 120km further north along the coast. Thousands of tourists are attracted to this part of Australia every year, thanks to its diverse scenery, top quality beaches and holiday accommodation, as well as other tourist attractions. In this article we look at some of the top tourist attractions in the region.

Beaches and National Parks

The beaches are arguably the main draw to the Sunshine coast, with some of the most picturesque sandy stretches in the country along this 120km stretch of land. With stunning coastal views and excellent surfing, Noosa Heads is a stop-off for many that travel the east coast, and the beach is home of the world-renowned Noosa Festival of Surfing. Further great beaches can be found at Mooloolaba, Alexandra Headland and at Kings Beach in Caloundra.

Noosa National Park is a protected area that is home to a number of koalas, and just one of five national parks on the Sunshine Coast. The others are Great Sandy National Park – which is split between Cooloola and nearby Fraser Island, as well as Glasshouse Mountains, Mapleton Falls and Kondalilla.

Family Fun

The Ettamogah Pub is somewhat of a local landmark, and is often claimed to be the most photographed pub in the world – it really does have to be seen to be believed! Behind the pub is Aussie World theme park, a family attraction that boasts over 30 rides such as the Wild Mouse Rollercoaster and the Octopus Ride, all set to the background of native Australian gardens.

More family fun can be had at Queensland’s largest Oceanarium “UnderWater World in Mooloolaba. This all-weather tourist attraction allows you to dive with sharks, watch otter and seal shows, enjoy a number of exhibits and presentations, and even take part in a ‘behind the scenes’ tour.

Anyone that has been to Australia before will be well aware of the array of many ‘Big Things’ dotted around the country, and the Sunshine Coast is no different. The Big Pineapple stands 16 meters high and is part of a working farm in Woombye. Visitors can enjoy rides, tours, feed the animals and visit the gift shop for those all important postcards and souvenirs.

An interesting option is the Ginger Factory, a great place to learn about the home of Buderim Ginger, sample some delicious Gingerbread men and to ride the 100 year-old Ginger Train. The Ginger factory can be found at Yandina, just a short drive from Noosa.

With attractions for both young and old, the Sunshine Castle at Bli Bli is home to a huge display of armour, a dungeon and a torture chamber. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour and learn about medieval times as they go. Also within the grounds of the castle are gift shops, a doll museum and a fully licensed cafe.

Outdoor Attractions

With fantastic weather almost all year round, it makes sense that some of the Sunshine Coast’s top attractions are outdoors. Arguably the biggest attraction of them all is Australia Zoo, made famous by Steve Irwin and his family. Located near Beerwah, the zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals, including Tasmanian Devils, Dromedary Camels and many kangaroos. Australia Zoo staff are well-known for having a hands-on approach with the animals, and visitors can cuddle a koala and feed some of the (less dangerous) animals themselves.

Located at Tanawha, The Bellingham Maze is a huge outdoor maze which presents a challenge for both young and old, requiring them to negotiate their way through a giant hedge maze to its centre, then back out again on the other side. Other attractions here include smaller brain-teasing rope mazes and tile mazes, as well as an aviary and a picnic area.

Golf fans are also spoilt for choice in the region, with top courses at Noosa Springs, Peregian Springs, Pelican Waters and North Lakes, amongst others.

The capital of Victoria and the second biggest city in Australia, Melbourne can almost match Sydney in terms of attractions, accommodation, and places of interest. The city is one of art, culture, sports and entertainment, and is notable for its expansive parks and gardens, and its distinct blend of contemporary and Victorian architecture. Here we take a look at just a few of the many recommended tourist attractions in Melbourne.

Where to Start

A unique and fascinating way to get your bearings before exploring Melbourne is to head up to the Rialto Towers to the Rialto Observation Deck. Built in 1982, the deck offers unrivalled panoramic views across the CBD and beyond, all from 234 metres up the tallest office building in the Southern Hemisphere. Tourist information and tour booking facilities can also be utilized in the towers.

Federation Square is also a great place to start exploring Melbourne, and was recently voted the city’s most visited tourist attraction with over seven million visitors every year. A prominent meeting place that can hold up to 10,000 people, the square brings together an array of historical, educational and entertainment attractions in a unique cultural precinct. Some of the biggest draws to Federation Square include the Melbourne Visitor Centre (MVC) – which provides comprehensive information on almost every sight of interest in the Victoria area, the impressive glass and metal structure of The Atrium – which hosts many art exhibitions and other displays, and the many cafes, bars and restaurants which line the square.

The Top Attractions

Queen Victoria Market is both a cultural shopping Mecca and a historical landmark. Attracting tourists and locals alike, the seven-acre market is the largest of its type in the southern hemisphere, and has been open for business for over 120 years. Local fruit and vegetables, gourmet foods, meat, fish and poultry, clothing and souvenirs can all be picked up here at bargain prices – and with over 1,000 stores to choose from exploring the colourful market can easily eat up a whole day. Shoppers really are spoilt for choice in Melbourne.

Museum Victoria runs four separate museums around the city, of which Melbourne Museum is the largest, containing over 16 million items relating to Australian society, Indigenous history, science and technology. Scienceworks Museum, Melbourne Planetarium and the Immigration Museum make up the quartet.

Museums and art galleries go hand in hand, and the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) displays works of Australian and European artists from the 19^th and 20^th Centuries, as well as a respectable display of Aboriginal art. The NGV is one of two public art galleries on St. Kilda Road, the other being the NGV International. These are not to be confused with the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia (which is back at Federation Square), or any of the other eight art galleries in the Melbourne metropolitan area.

Animal lovers are spoilt for choice in the city, with both the Melbourne Zoo and the Melbourne Aquarium. The former is Australia’s oldest zoo and contains over 350 species from around the world, including kangaroos, dingoes, koalas and many other native species, for those that do not have the time to venture outside of the big cities. Like the zoo, the aquarium is ideally positioned just a short distance from the city centre. Spread over four levels, a one-way self-guided tour of the aquarium brings visitors into contact with sea dragons, Japanese spider crabs cod and other unusual species of the deep.

Sports enthusiasts are also spoilt for choice, with many top events being held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground – better known simply as the MCG. The iconic sporting venue is located in Yarra Park, an easy walk from the city centre. The MCG was the main stadium for the 1956 Olympic Games, and is the current home of the Grand Final of Australian Rules Football as well as international rugby, soccer and cricket. Guided tours are available on a daily basis.

Almost every major Australian city seems to have some botanic gardens, but the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne are some of the very finest of them all. Developed by German botanist Ferdinand von Muller in 1852, the 40 hectare gardens contain over 12,000 different species of plants. Nature lovers will also be right at home in the greenery of the newly developed Birrarung Marr, which connects the CBD to the MCG, and is the home of regular events and festivals.

Some of the finest eating and drinking options can be found in the Docklands district, where contemporary bars mix with classic cafes and top-class restaurants, all to the stunning backdrop of Victoria Harbour. Further dining and even more shopping can be enjoyed just a short walk across the river in Southbank. This is also where you will find the Crown Entertainment Complex. Although the casino draws more than its fair share of visitors, but with a huge range of accommodation, retail, entertainment, eating and drinking options within the complex, it is not just for those who fancy their chances at roulette or a dabble on that famous icon of Australian culture – the pokies.

Melbourne is a diverse city, meaning that a diverse range of eating options are available. Many of the top restaurants, hotels, snack bars and cafes are in and around the CBD, with further great food choices in popular suburbs such as St. Kilda and Southbank. Here we take a look at just a selection of Melbourne’s best options for eating out.

CBD

The CBD is the place to head for the busiest eateries, with a huge range of cafes and snack bars for those fancying a light bite, whilst those seeking something a little more substantial can find almost any variant of restaurant imaginable.

Restaurants

Whatever type of restaurant meal you crave, there will be at least a dozen matches within Melbourne CBD. Simply listing all of the Melbourne restaurants would fill this article several times over, so the best advice is to simply search around. Probably the most common type of cuisine on offer is described as ‘Modern Australian’ – traditional dishes that have been heavily influenced by Asian and European ingredients. Restaurants of this type can be found all around the CBD – try crocodile fillets on a bed of saffron rice at Feddish on Swanston Street, or the chicken, tiger prawn and shitake ravioli at Dish on St. Kilda Road.

Asian dishes are also extremely popular in this part of Australia. BBQ King (Lonsdale Street) seats a whopping 420 people, and is known as something of a local legend when it comes to cheap and delicious Chinese food. Several other recommended Chinese options can be found along on Little Bourke Street, including Shark Fin House, Shanghai Noodle House and Golden Orchids – which also offers an excellent range of Malaysian curries.

If Asian or Modern Australian are not your thing, don’t fret – Italian, Indian, Spanish Tapas, Mexican and Seafood restaurants can also be found in abundance.

Food Courts

Food courts can be found all across the city, offering excellent portions at budget prices. Simply head inside, pick from a number of eating options such as Chinese, sushi, pizza, pasta, and chain outlets such as McDonalds, Hungry Jacks and Subway, then sit down to eat in the communal area. These are an ideal option for larger groups that have a number of different opinions on what they fancy. Ong Asian Food Court at 265 Little Bourke Street and the food courts in the Melbourne Central Shopping Centre are two of the most popular options.

Cafes

Café culture is thriving in Melbourne, with many now offering far more than just a cup of coffee. It is hard to walk for more than a few metres without stumbling across a coffee-related variant, whether it be a branch of the traditional big chains of Starbucks, Hudson’s Coffee or The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf – where you can enjoy a snack and catch up on your e-mails via the Wi-Fi – or one of the thriving independent coffee shops, which have an ever-increasing amount of themes, such as the specialist chocolate café Max Brenner Chocolate Bar on Lonsdale Street, the salads, rolls and fresh quiches at Wedge Café on Swanston Street, or the bookshelf-lined Journal Canteen on Flinders Lane.

Fast Food

Of course eating out does not always mean sitting down with a knife and fork, or even sitting down. Fast food outlets can be found in abundance in Melbourne, the majority of which offer take-away and dine-in options. As well as the usual suspects of McDonalds and Hungry Jacks, don’t forget the healthy sandwiches at Subway, the fresh roast chicken on offer at Red Rooster, and the Australia-based pizza chain Eagle Boys. Also expect to see several branches of Noodle Box – the stir fried noodle chain has its headquarters in the city.

Pub Grub

It is almost criminal visiting Melbourne and not sampling a counter meal in one of the city’s many watering holes. You can expect pies, steaks, and in general huge portions for good prices wherever you go, but some of our favourites include The Mitre Tavern on Bank Place and James Squire Brewhouse, which has its own micro-brewery and an ideal marina location at Waterfront City. Also In the heart of the CBD lies Melbourne’s ‘coolest’ venue, the Chill On Ice Lounge, where cocktails and light meals can be enjoyed at minus 10 degrees.

Outside of the CBD

There are many more restaurants outside of the CBD, in suburbs such as St. Kilda and Southbank. Southbank lies just across the water from the CBD, on the banks of the Yarra River, and possesses a great array of eating options such Melba – which has open kitchens and a variety of dishes from around the globe, and Bear Brass – which serves good old fashioned pub grub.

Don’t forget St. Kilda! Many visitors head straight into the CBD and neglect this attractive suburb that lies just 6km south of the city centre. Café lifestyle is in full swing here, particularly along Acland Street, which is home to a number of famous cake shops and bakeries. Fitzroy Street has more café-bars and restaurants, and leads visitors down to the bay area, where seafood is the order of the day at popular establishments such as Claypots Seafood Bar (Barkly Street) and Donovan’s (Jacka Boulevard).

And Finally…

If you are struggling to choose, and fancy doing a little exploring whilst you eat, the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant operates from a fleet of three vintage trams, and runs along selected trams routes through the city and suburbs, providing quality food and unlimited alcohol along the way. The trams are boarded from near the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, and tables should be booked well in advance for this extremely unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Adelaide is often sadly overlooked by those who have made a journey down Australia’s east coast and spent time in the big cities of Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, mainly due to there being a rumour going around that Adelaide is ‘boring’. This could not be further from the truth, and those that choose to ignore the capital of South Australia are missing out on a number of unique and fun attractions.

Where to Start

A great place to start is Victoria Square, a popular meeting point that lies in the shadow of a number of well-preserved 19^th Century buildings. From here it is just a short walk into the city centre, or you can also take a tram journey to the pleasant beach town of Glenelg, which boasts an excellent sandy beach, clear waters and a number of hotels, bars, cafes and restaurants. One of the more interesting options in Glenelg is the famous Rodney Fox Shark Experience, a dedicated museum owned and run by a shark attack survivor.

Central Market and Chinatown are also both within a five-minute walk of Victoria Square. Those looking for a combined shopping and eating experience should head along to the Central Market, which was founded in 1870 and has a great range of food stalls that sell top-quality local produce at bargain prices. Many samples can be enjoyed of fine coffees, cheese and cooked meats and much more.

All of the tasting should have whetted your appetite, and the next logical step is to head to one of the two large food courts in the market. Each court offers over twenty choices of eating experience, the majority of which are Asian in origin. For just a few dollars you can pile your plate high then sit down to eat in the communal seating area. Those who would prefer the confines of a restaurant only have a short walk to Chinatown, which as the name suggests boasts a number of other Asian eating options.

The City Centre

Heading into the city, top shopping in Adelaide can be found along Rundle Mall. As well as all of the big retailers you would expect in a major city, the street has a number of shopping arcades containing smaller, independent shops. To the east of Rundle Mall is Rundle Street, home of many bars, cafes and restaurants, and the perfect place for people-watching and enjoying the sun with the drink of your choice. This is also a key location during the time of the famous Adelaide Fringe Festival. To the opposite end of Rundle Mall is Hindley Street, Adelaide’s number one option for nightlife, especially on a Friday and Saturday night.

Adelaide has a number of galleries and museums, many of which are located along North Terrace. These include the Art Gallery of South Australia, Old Parliament House Museum and the South Australian Museum. Many offer free entry and several hours’ worth of viewing. Also along North Terrace is the Adelaide Festival Centre – which plays host to many music, drama and comedy acts throughout the year, the rich flora and fauna of the Botanic Gardens and the ever-popular Adelaide Zoo.

Adelaide is not known as the ‘City of Churches’ for nothing, and those interested in exploring the structures will be spoilt for choice. Some of the most popular options in the city include the 1901 St. Peter’s Cathedral and the 1838 Holy Trinity Church, but there are many more.

Outside of the City Centre

A short journey to the south of town takes you to Haigh’s Chocolate Factory. Haigh’s are a national institution that have been making fine chocolates since 1915. A free guided tour is available, which is informative and will yield plenty of free samples. There is also the opportunity to purchase top-quality goods from the well stocked shop, which make for a unique souvenir of Adelaide.

Sports lovers should make every effort to enjoy a spot of Australian Rules Football during their stay, and Adelaide has the luxury of two AFL teams. Adelaide Crows are the main team in town, but they are also joined by near-neighbours Port Adelaide, who combine to make an intense-but-fun local rivalry. Both teams play at AAMI Stadium, and the derby is the highlight of the local calendar. Cricket fans should head to Adelaide Oval, which regular hosts matches involving the Australian national team, and can also be toured and contains the Bradman Museum of Cricket.

Mount Lofty makes for a popular day trip to the east of Adelaide. A journey up to the 2,390ft summit of the southern peak offers excellent views of the Adelaide Hills area and the nearby Barossa Valley region. Just a short distance from Mount Lofty summit is Cleland Wildlife Park, which has koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and other native animals.

Barossa Valley is itself an excellent excursion opportunity and an excuse for plenty of wine tasting. Some of the most famous wineries to choose from include Jacob’s Creek, Penfolds and Wolf Blass, but there are a great number of others, the vast majority of which offer free tasting sessions and bargain prices on their wares. Also in this direction is the German town of Hahndorf, which boasts attractions as diverse as cafes, churches and strawberry picking.

The Gold Coast covers a 1400km² stretch of area in the south-east corner of Queensland. It is renowned for its excellent weather, great surfing beaches, high-rise apartment buildings, and most of all, its huge range of tourist attractions. In this section we take a look at some of the attractions that keep up to 10 million people visiting on an annual basis.

Most people associate the Gold Coast with the district of Surfers Paradise, though there are a further six districts that also make up the area, these being: Coomera, Currumbin, Gaven, Mermaid Beach, Mudgeeraba and Southport.

Surfers Paradise

Characterized by high-rise apartments and holiday accommodation, Surfers Paradise is the destination for thousands of visitors every day, from both home and abroad. Around 50,000 high school graduates head for the destination in November alone, for the infamous Schoolies week.

The biggest building of all is the Q1 Building, which is the second highest vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere and offers panoramic views in all directions from its 77^th floor observation deck. The viewing deck is 230 meters up in the sky, whilst the whole building measures in at a whopping 322.5 meters tall.

The main street in the CBD is Cavill Mall, an extremely busy shopping strip that is named after a local hotelier. This is also the busiest strip when it comes to nightlife, with a number of bars, nightclubs and restaurants to choose from. On top of this, Cavill Mall is home to numerous other attractions, such as various tenpin bowling outlets, Timezone indoor entertainment centre and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Museum. Nearby, the Esplanade is another hive of activity, with many more shops, bars and restaurants to choose from. One thing is for sure – you will never go hungry or get bored in Surfers Paradise!

Surfer’s (as it is colloquially known) also boasts a wide surfing beach, which is regularly voted as one of the best and cleanest beaches in the country. A huge range of water sports are available from the beach, including windsurfing, parasailing, jet boating – and of course plenty of surfing. There are a total of 57km of beaches along the Gold Coast, with other notable sandy stretches at Snapper Rocks, Coolangatta and Burleigh Heads.

Surfers Paradise also has attractions for culture lovers. These include a number of galleries in the area, such as the Spirit of Australia Gallery and the Lotus Gallery (both on the Gold Coast highway), the Wax Museum on Ferny Avenue and Budds Beach Art Gallery.

Many people head to the Gold Coast for the theme parks, the majority of which are situated a few kilometres north of Surfer’s Paradise, in Oxenford. Warner Bros. Movie World is the biggest park of its type in Australia, and is home to 17 rides that cater for all members of the family. The movie-related theme means top rides such as the Batwing Spaceshot, Superman Escape and Scooby-Doo Roller Coaster, and a number of costumed characters can be spotted around the park during the day. Add in the many shops, stalls, street shows and other attractions – such as the excellent Hollywood Stunt Driver, and the park makes for an excellent day out.

Next door to Movie World is Wet’n’Wild, the third largest water park in the world. 15 rides and various other attractions combine here to make another full day out, with the recently-developed Kamikaze ride and the half-pipe rollercoaster known as Surfrider arguably the biggest thrills of all.

Outside of Surfers Paradise

Situated in Coomera, Dream World is Australia’s largest theme park, with a whopping 45 rides to choose from. Next door is the recently-opened WhiteWater World. These two offer direct competition to Movie World and Wet’n’Wild, but it is the customers who benefit as they can of course go to all four! Coomera also has plans to develop Australia’s biggest shopping centre, so keep an eye on this up-and-coming suburb.

Southport is the central business district of the Gold Coast, but still has attractions for tourists, such as the Southport Broadwater Parklands (which is undergoing substantial redevelopment) and the 233-store Australia Fair Shopping Centre.

The main attraction in Currumbin is Superbee Honeyworld, a working honey bee factory where you can sample and buy honey products, watch live bee shows and learn about the honey making process, from the bee to the jar! Another great option is Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, the Gold Coast’s leading native wildlife experience.

The capital and largest city of Western Australia is also the remotest city on the planet. That is not to say that there is not much in the way of attractions for anyone that makes the long journey across from the busier east coast, with the ‘City of Lights’ offering plenty in both the CBD and its surrounding suburbs. Many of Perth’s top attractions are outdoors, taking full advantage of the city’s excellent weather and waterside location.

How to Get Around

Perth has an excellent public transport system that makes it quick and easy to get from your hotel to various attractions. A good way of doing this is through a guided tour by tram or sightseeing bus, or alternatively you can go about it your own way by CAT bus, passenger train, by hiring a bicycle or simply on foot.

Perth CBD Attractions

Perth boasts plenty in the way of cultural attractions, many of which are in the aptly-named Perth Cultural Centre. These include the State Records Office and the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts, along with the Art Gallery of Western Australia: Which houses an eclectic mix of ongoing displays of Indigenous art from Western Australia) and temporary exhibitions such, as Egyptian art and Australian ceramics, the Western Australian Museum: The main museum of WA, which displays information on the region’s history and environment, and the Alexander Library: The State Reference Library of Western Australia.

Arguably the jewel in Perth’s crown is King’s Park, which covers 400 hectares of virgin bush land and well-maintained Botanic Gardens, and as well as being ideal for exploring on foot or by bicycle, relaxing with a book or enjoying a picnic, is also the place to head for that perfect shot of the Perth skyline, especially from Mount Eliza, a hill which overlooks the city. Equally good views can be enjoyed from DNA Tower in Forrest Drive, a 202-step spiral staircase that takes you high above the treetops.

A good zoo is always a popular choice with visitors, and Perth Zoo is a small but perfectly formed example which is home to over 1300 animals from around 230 different species. All the expected native species can be seen, as well as a number of endangered species.

Since its opening to the public in 2000 Perth Bell Tower has been a popular choice with tourists. The green glass spire (also known as the Swan Bells) is home to 18 bells – the largest set of change ringing bells in the world. Another historic landmark is the nearby Barracks Arch, which was originally built in 1866.

Perth Mint is also one of the city’s top attractions, and is one of the world’s oldest operational mints, having been established in 1899 to refine gold from Western Australia’s goldfields. A relatively small admission fee provides you with opportunity to tour the mint and learn about the processes involved.

Sports lovers have plenty to keep them going in Perth, with a number of professional sports teams calling the city their home. Depending on the time of year it is possible to see cricket at the WACA Ground and Australian Rules football at Subiaco Oval, as well as horse racing at the Ascot and Belmont racetracks.

St. Georges Terrace is the main street in the city centre, and runs parallel to the Swan River and through the heart of the CBD. Named for St. Georges Cathedral, the street is where you will find many of the city’s older buildings mixed in with modern skyscrapers, including the London Court shopping market and the Aboriginal Arts Gallery. The Swan River itself has plenty to offer, and will allow you explore the area though a relaxing cruises or a high speed jet boat ride.

The CBD has a number of malls for shoppers to enjoy, with the Murray and Hay Street malls particular popular. Upmarket shoppers should head to the West End and King’s Street, where a respectable selection of top fashion houses have a base.

When it comes to evening entertainment, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to be found in both the CBD and the suburbs, with the busiest area being the west end. The east of Perth has trendy wine bars and restaurants, as well as the Burswood Complex, which boasts dining and accommodation options, as well as the Burswood Casino.

The Suburbs

Perth also has plenty of attractions in its outlying suburbs, and a list of these could easily fill another article. These include:

• The Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA), which is situated in Hilary’s, a few kilometres to the north of the city, and contains a 40 metre long main tank which holds a whopping three million litres of seawater and over 400 species of marine life.
• Adventure World theme park in Bibra Lake.
• The many attractions of Rockingham and Mandurah, both just a short drive south.
• Several excellent beaches, including the famous Cottesloe Beach.
• Lancelin – arguably WA’s top windsurfing and sandboarding destination.
• Pioneer Village Theatre and Cinema Complex in Armadale.

Adelaide is quite simply a food-lover’s paradise. The city is absolutely busting at the seams with great cafes and restaurants, many of which focus on modern Australian cuisine made using the best local ingredients. This is of course accompanied by the best local wines, brought straight from Barossa Valley, Clare Valley and Mclaren Vale.

Adelaide CBD

It is likely that most visitors will be staying in Adelaide’s city centre, and of course this is also where many of the city’s best restaurants can be found.

For a taste of modern Australian cuisine, there are seemingly endless choices in the CBD. Some of the best include the Botanic Gardens restaurant inside the grounds of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens on North Terrace and Grange Restaurant on Victoria Square. For something a little less pricey try The Bunka, which is found inside The Austral Hotel on Rundle Street, one of Adelaide’s most popular pubs.

If you’ve got a craving for something from back home or just don’t really like Australian food, there are plenty of different styles of national cuisine catered to in Adelaide, so you’re sure to be able to find something. If you like Italian, Café Amore on Pulteney Street is a great option, offering plates piled high with pasta and tasty gourmet pizzas, all topped off with some delicious Italian ice-cream and authentic coffee. The prices here are also a massive plus, with change out of $20 for most main courses.

For other Mediterranean cuisines, try The Corner Bistrot on Leigh Street for French food and wine, or Tapas on Hindley for some authentic Spanish fare, which is open until the early hours on the weekends.

Meat eaters will love the steaks at Goucho’s Argentinean Restaurant on Gouger Street or the Balcony Restaurant on North Terrace, while vegetarians and vegans should head to Bliss Organic Café on Compton Street for lunch or Good Life Modern Organic Pizza for dinner.

Chinatown

A definite “must see” for every visitor to Adelaide is Chinatown, and this area is where most of the city’s best Asian restaurants are to be found (with a few non-Asian ones squeezed in between for good measure). For a more upmarket Asian experience, try Citi Zen restaurant on King William Street for Chinese, Jasmin on Hindmarsh Square for Indian or Kenji Modern Japanese on Hutt Street.

For a more authentically Chinese experience, try either Bazu or BBQ City on Gouger Street, but be warned that you may be waiting some time for a table as both are usually packed with Chinese ex-pats. Alternatively, try DirecThai for some great, inexpensive Thai food or Great River on Gouger Street for traditional, authentic Korean barbecue.

Lunchtime

For visitors who are looking for something a little lighter, there are lots of chain cafes and coffee shops such as Cibo and Gloria Jean’s. There are also heaps of small, independent cafes to be found along the bottom of the city’s office blocks, many of which serve up top quality food with your coffee, at much less than you’d pay in a restaurant. A personal favorite is Chocolate Bean on Union Street, which as the name suggests is a temple to all things chocolate, including hot chocolate, iced chocolate, chocolate ice-cream and all kinds of chocolate cakes and desserts.

Although the major fast food chains are of course all found in Adelaide, the more plentiful and slightly better alternative for a quick, cheap eat is to hit one of the city’s food halls. There is a rather sizeable Asian population in Adelaide, and so most of these food courts focus predominantly on Asian cuisine, with plenty of concessions offering two or three choices with rice or noodles for only a few dollars. Most of the food courts also have plenty of other options as well, for example pizza/pasta, Mexican, Turkish and sandwich bars, so everyone is sure to find something they fancy.

Glenelg

Although most of the action is in the town centre, some visitors may be staying in, or at least visiting, the beachside suburb of Glenelg. This quaint little seaside town also has some great places to eat without visitors needing to travel all the way into the city.

One of the most unique eating experiences can be had at Top of the World revolving restaurant, just outside of Glenelg, offering stunning 360 degree views of the surrounding Adelaide area, accompanied by delicious local seafood and South Australian wine.

Down on the promenade, Blu Café offers a varied menu, featuring Italian favorites, Middle Eastern dishes and fresh local seafood, all cooked to perfection but at a price which won’t break the bank. Another nice choice is Café Strand, which features a Mediterranean menu focusing predominantly on fish and meat, but with a few veggie options thrown in there too. The stone-baked pizzas are the highlight of the menu and can be enjoyed with a fabulous selection of local and European wines.