Amazing Three Weeks Australia Itinerary: Melbourne, Sydney & Cairns

Travel Australia for Three weeks? Planning a spontaneous trip in such a vast country can feel overwhelming, but with the right priorities and a bit of flexibility, you can experience an incredible amount. Our journey was about finding a balance between seeing iconic landmarks and discovering the authentic Australia. Thanks to a relatively open “bucket list,” we could take each day as it came, and that turned out to be the best decision.

We focused on Melbourne, Sydney, and the areas around Cairns, spicing up the trip with an unforgettable road trip between Melbourne and Sydney. Driving along the coast gave us the chance to see dramatic landscapes, encounter unique animals, and experience to travel the “real” Australia – far from the usual tourist trails.

Although many recommend driving or flying between Sydney and Brisbane, we opted to skip it due to our limited time. Furthermore, this decision proved to be incredibly fortunate, as one of the worst cyclones in two decades, Cyclone Alfred, struck Brisbane precisely during our planned travel dates.

Even though our planning was spontaneous, our trip to Australia turned out to be a perfect blend of adventure travel and experiences. Through this, we learned a valuable lesson: sometimes, slowing down and focusing on a few destinations yields a richer experience than trying to see it all. The result was a memorable journey filled with surprises and authentic moments.

*Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. However, this comes at no extra cost to you.

Australia Itinerary Map

Open it in your Google Maps app!

Best Time to Travel Australia

Planning to travel through Australia, from Melbourne’s lively streets to Cairns’ tropical paradise, requires some thought about timing. Australia is an enormous country to travel with varying climates, so the “best time” really depends on where you want to be and what you want to do. Here’s a guide to help you plan your dream trip:

Summary for your trip when you travel Australia:

To combine Melbourne, road trip, and Cairns, consider traveling during spring or early autumn. This will give you pleasant weather for all parts of your trip. If your main focus is the Great Barrier Reef, plan your stay in Cairns between May and October.

Planning to travel Australia soon? We’ve put together a list of our top travel resources and must-have accessories to ensure you’re all set for your adventure!
– Find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com or Hotels.com
– Discover amazing tours on Get Your Guide
– Compare and rent a car for your journey on Discovercars.com
– Find the best prices for buses, trains, and flights on Omio.com
– Secure travel insurance Onshorekare.com
– Check out our favorite travel gear HERE
– Get your eSim for seamless connectivity iRoamly.com
– Get some great deals on tickets to tourist attractions check out Klook.com
– We love the detailed travel guides from Lonely Planet! Use this LINK or code “JESPEREDMAN10” at checkout to get 10% off

How Long Should You Stay?

When planning our three-week Australia adventure, we quickly realized that truly experiencing the country was more important than just ticking off numerous sights. Opting for a road trip over quick flights allowed us to travel the “real” Australia, encountering charming towns and friendly locals far from the typical tourist paths.

While this approach was rewarding, it highlighted that three weeks offers just a glimpse of Australia’s vast diversity. Therefore, to truly appreciate it, at least a month is recommended, considering the significant travel distances. Furthermore, we suggest allocating at least 4-5 days to experience the unique atmospheres of both Melbourne and Sydney (though we’d prioritize more time in Melbourne if you have to choose). The road trip between them can easily take 7-10 days, depending on your desired stops.

Finally, dedicate at least a week to fully enjoy Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, including diving, snorkeling, and rainforest exploration. Ultimately, to avoid a rushed experience and truly soak in the Australian spirit, it’s best to select a few regions and explore them thoroughly. Australia is a country best savored, not hurried through so dont do a fast travel through this continent.

Budget and Estimated Costs

Total for the trip, we spent approximately 4650 USD per person (flights around 1674 USD and 2790 USD on location). Here’s an approximate breakdown:

We were pleasantly surprised that admission to all national parks and most museums was free.

Accommodation when you travel Australia

When planning our travels through Australia, we spent a lot of time finding the right accommodation. It was about balancing budget and comfort – we didn’t want to overpay, but also didn’t want to stay in dingy rooms. Therefore, Google and TripAdvisor became our indispensable tools. Other people’s reviews gave us valuable insight into what we could expect.

Read our guide:

Guide: Finding the perfect accommodation for the best price

Transportation in Australia

Travel through Australia requires some planning, especially considering the enormous distances.

What to Pack when you travel Australia

Packing for Australia’s varied climates requires thought. Traveling light with a 35L backpack and carry-on, I packed mostly thin summer clothes for the intense March heat, plus layers for the flight. A light rain jacket and umbrella were essential for unexpected rain in Sydney and the north.

Here’s a short packing list with the essentials for when you travel Australia:

Tips:

• Pack clothes that can be layered to adapt to different temperatures.
• Use packing cubes to maximize space in your backpack.
• Bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce plastic use.
• Check the weather forecast close to your departure date.
• If you plan to snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef, be aware of stinger season; you might want a full-body lycra suit, which is often provided by tour companies.
• If you need clothes, a towel, or anything else at cheap prices, we recommend the store Kmart.
• Check out some of our best travel gear HERE

We really recommend products from Osprey:

Is Australia safe to travel?

Australia is generally considered a safe country to travel in. Personal safety is good, and the general emergency number is 000 or 112 for police, ambulance, and fire brigade. A tip is to always find out the contact details of your local embassy in the country and write them down on a piece of paper that you always carry with you, just in case.

However, as in any country, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

And let’s be honest, Australia has a reputation for having a lot of… interesting animals. From venomous snakes that would rather be left alone, to cute koalas that might not be as cuddly as they look, and jellyfish that can make you reconsider your entire existence in the water. But don’t worry too much! Most animals don’t care about tourists, and with common sense, you’ll go a long way.

Some specific things to be aware of are:

• Natural Disasters: When you Travel through Australia you can experience heatwaves, bushfires, and other natural disasters. Stay updated on any potential risks.
• UV Radiation: The sun is strong, especially near the equator. Protect yourself from the sun.
• Water Activities: Be careful at swimming beaches and follow the instructions of lifeguards due to strong currents.

Despite these risks (and some animals that might be a bit extra), Australia is generally a safe travel destination.

If you don’t have travel insurance, you should really get one before your travels:

Full Itinerary

Day 1: Melbourne – Arrival and Take it Easy

After a long flight, it’s important to take it easy, so we checked into the hotel and had an early night. For the first three nights, we planned to stay in a hotel to acclimatize, then we switched to a hostel to meet other travelers – a great way to get tips and inspiration.

Our first accommodation in Melbourne: The Victoria Hotel

Day 2: Melbourne – Planning and First Impressions of the City

The day began with sorting out practical things. Australia is quite expensive country to travel, so we bought food (bread, spreads, noodles) to save money. Then we went out to look for a rental car, and it’s important to check your driving license! We forgot to get an international driving permit at home and had to pay extra for a quick translation on the spot. Learn from our mistake, it’s cheaper to arrange at home!

The afternoon was spent exploring Melbourne. We strolled along the Yarra River and stopped at the outdoor cafes. The National Gallery of Victoria is free and perfect for a quiet moment when you’re jet-lagged. Tiredness took over, so it was an early night.

Tips: If you feel energetic, check out Queen Victoria Market for local food and shopping, or visit the Royal Botanic Gardens for a relaxing walk.

Day 3: Melbourne – Parks, Culture, and Football

We started the day by visiting Carlton Gardens, a nice park with the Melbourne Museum. However, the museum felt a bit too youthful for us, so we walked on to the trendy Carlton and Fitzroy neighborhoods. Here you’ll find lots of street art, cafes, and bars.

We had lunch in Chinatown, and the afternoon was spent finding street art in the laneways. In the evening, we went to a bar to watch Australian Rules Football (“Footy”). The atmosphere was fantastic, even if we didn’t understand all the rules!

Tips: Return to Carlton or Fitzroy in the evening for a lively nightlife with students and good bars.

Day 4: Melbourne – St Kilda and Abbotsford

We checked out of the hotel and left our bags at the hostel. Then we took the tram to the coast and walked to St Kilda. Here, I took the opportunity to fly the drone and get some nice pictures over Melbourne.

We bought lunch from a supermarket and spent the day in St Kilda. It’s a cozy place with a beach, pier, and swimming opportunities. In the afternoon, we checked into the hostel and met friends in the local Abbotsford area. There are many breweries and pubs here, a really good evening!

Tips: Check if your hostel has evening activities, such as a pub crawl, beer pong tournament or similar. A perfect way to meet new people and make new friends from all corners of the world.

Our second accommodation in Melbourne: Bounce Melbourne

Day 5: Melbourne – Memorials, Gardens, and Penguins

This day was open for us to see more of Melbourne. We visited the Shrine of Remembrance (free) and the Royal Botanic Gardens (also free and well worth a visit!).

Shrine of Remembrance: A significant war memorial dedicated to Australians who have served in armed conflicts. It’s a solemn and impressive structure with poignant exhibits and offers panoramic views of Melbourne from its top. Entry is free.

Royal Botanic Gardens: A beautiful and expansive green oasis in the heart of Melbourne. It features diverse plant collections from around the world, serene lakes, walking paths, and picnic spots. It’s a perfect place for relaxation and enjoying nature. Entry is also free.

Day 6: Road Trip Day 1 – Great Ocean Road

In the morning, we checked out, picked up our rental car, and started to travel our epic road trip through Australia! We wanted to get as much as possible out of the Great Ocean Road, so we started early.

We stopped at:

Teddys Lookout in Lorne

A fantastic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the coast, the ocean, and the mouth of the Erskine River. Perfect for taking beautiful pictures and enjoying the dramatic nature.

Kennett River Nature Walk (koalas and kangaroos)

Cape Otway Lightstation (closes at 5 PM)

A historic lighthouse located on a dramatic headland where Bass Strait and the Southern Ocean meet. You can explore the lighthouse, learn about its history, and enjoy the magnificent views of the surrounding sea and cliffs. Remember to plan your visit so you are there well before closing time at 5 PM.

We ended the day by watching the sunset at the Twelve Apostles: An iconically beautiful place with dramatic limestone formations rising from the sea. Watching the sun go down behind these “apostles” is a magical experience with fantastic color shifts in the sky and on the cliffs. A perfect end to an eventful day.

Overnight stay in cozy Port Campbell, a town 10 minutes from the Twelve Apostles. We stayed at a hostel called Sow and Piglets Guesthouse We highly recommend it as they had very friendly staff and their own brewed beer.

Our accommodation in Port Campbell: Sow and Piglets Guesthouse

Day 7: Road Trip Day 2 – Port Campbell to Wilson Promontory

We started the day by heading to Loch Ard Gorge early. The cliffs here are incredibly beautiful, and therefore, it’s best to arrive before the tourist buses start showing up.

Next up was a long drive to Wilson Promontory. Due to the significant travel time, it’s unrealistic to expect to explore much of Wilson Promontory upon arrival. As a result, we recommend booking accommodation near the national park for easy access the following day.

We chose to take the faster inland route instead of staying on the Great Ocean Road. This allowed us to take care of some errands, like buying breakfast/simple food and some necessities (cutlery, towels, etc.).

After checking in, we went to Port Welshpool to walk on the really long jetty, a really nice place to see the sunset after a long day of driving.

Our accommodation about an hour from Wilson Promontory: Toora Lodge Motel

Day 8: Road Trip Day 3 – Wilson Promontory and Port Albert

Given that there’s a lot to do, we tried to fit in a full day at Wilson Promontory. However, we also wanted to reach our next destination, so we had to prioritize our activities for the day.

Here’s what we did, and we recommend all of these activities:

Hike to Mount Oberon summit (fantastic views!)

A rewarding hike to the top of Mount Oberon. The reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of all of Wilsons Promontory, its coastline, islands, and the surrounding ocean. Well worth the effort!

Quick visit to Squeaky Beach (walk barefoot in the sand to hear it “squeak”)

A unique beach visit where the fine-grained, white quartz sand makes a squeaking sound when you walk on it barefoot. A special and fun sensory experience.

Ended the day with a short hike on the Prom Wildlife Walk (here you can see kangaroos, wallabies, wombats)

An easily accessible walking trail that’s excellent for observing the local wildlife in its natural habitat. You have a good chance of seeing kangaroos, wallabies, and maybe even a wombat at dusk. We saw all three of these animals, and it was a wonderful experience as they are animals you can’t see in many other countries.

Then, we drove directly to Port Albert and checked into a motel. It’s said that they have incredibly good fish and chips here, but the restaurant was unfortunately closed when we were there as it was a bit off-season. Luckily, we were able to find fish and chips at other places during our travel in Australia.

Our accommodation for the night: Port Albert Motel

Day 9: Road Trip Day 4 – Port Albert to Mallacoota

This day was mostly about driving a longer distance.

There isn’t much specific to do along the way. However, you can take a scenic route along Ninety Mile Beach and Golden Beach. Be sure to stop and check out the beaches. Indeed, they are incredibly long, and the horizon stretches as far as the eye can see. While very beautiful, keep in mind that there can be big waves and strong currents, so be careful if you swim.

We arrived in Mallacoota and explored the town a bit. We stayed at the Mallacoota Hotel Motel, which was very nice and had a good restaurant/bar.

Tips on things to do along this stretch if you have extra time when you travel Australia:

• Tarra-Bulga NP: Rainforest, giant trees, suspension bridge, waterfalls. Walks.
• Ninety Mile Beach: Long, untouched beach. Walk, fish.
• Lakes Entrance: Coastal town by the lakes. Fishing, boats, food, bridges.
• Gippsland Lakes: Lakes and lagoons. Water sports, birds, relaxation.
• Buchan Caves: Limestone caves with stalactites/stalagmites. Guided tours.
• Croajingolong NP: Rocky coast, beaches, hiking, birds, camping.
• Mallacoota: Charming coastal town by the inlet. Fish, kayak, explore nature.

Our accommodation this night: Mallacoota Hotel Motel

Day 10: Road Trip Day 5 – Mallacoota to Narooma

The day started with a round of golf among kangaroos! It was a truly special experience and you must do it when you travel Australia if you are a golfer. Even if you don’t play golf, I recommend visiting a golf course. Kangaroos love to hang out there; we saw a group of maybe 50.

We played here: Mallacoota Golf and Country Club

Then, we stopped at a campsite in town; we had received a tip that you could see koalas there. Check the map and see if you get lucky too!

Check out the trees at this place: Pin in Google Maps

We then drove on to Eden. A nice town known for being a place to see whales from various viewpoints. There’s also a Killer Whale Museum, worth a visit if you’re interested.

Take the scenic route on to Narooma and stop at all the beautiful viewpoints along the way.

We ended the day in Narooma, a nice town where you can visit Dolphins Lookout. Even if you don’t see dolphins, the view is wonderful.

We had difficulty finding accommodation in this town and ended up at a slightly less desirable motel: Narooma Motel

Day 11: Road Trip Day 6 – Narooma to Wollongong

If you’re interested in orcas (killer whales), there’s a museum and a fascinating history connected to them in Narooma.

This was the last day of our road trip before Sydney. We wanted to get to a town fairly close to Sydney, so the focus was on driving this day.

We made a stop in Ulladulla, where we did a “fossil walk” to look for fossils. It was a bit difficult to tell what was a fossil, but it might be worth a visit if you find that interesting.

Near the fossil walk, there’s also a pool right by the sea, nice to visit if it’s hot and sunny.

Once we arrived in Wollongong, we checked into our hostel and had dinner. We took it easy this evening to be ready for an early departure towards Sydney the next day.

Tip: For the adventurous, there’s skydiving in Wollongong!

In this town, we stayed at a hostel; it was very family-like, and if you like this type of smaller hostel, we can recommend this one: Wollongong Backpackers Keiraleagh

Day 12: Wollongong to Penrith (Blue Mountains – Half Day 1)

Early wake-up and departure towards Sydney. We chose to stay in the suburb of Penrith to visit the Blue Mountains and take advantage of having the rental car. It’s much cheaper to drive there yourself than to take a guided tour from Sydney.

The drive to Penrith didn’t take too long, so we arrived around lunchtime. Since there’s a lot to see and do in the Blue Mountains, I recommend going there directly to get a half-day of views and hiking and then checking into your accommodation in the evening.

Tip: Here are some of the best viewpoints and hiking trails in the Blue Mountains:

• Three Sisters
• Echo Point
• Scenic World
• Wentworth Falls

Our accommodation in Penrith: Nepean Shores by Gateway Lifestyle Holiday Parks

Day 13: Blue Mountains – Sydney City

We had booked tickets for an Australian Rules Football match in Sydney, so we only had half a day left in the Blue Mountains. If you don’t have any evening plans, stay longer and do more hiking and enjoy the beautiful nature!

We started with an early visit to The Three Sisters, the most popular viewpoint in the Blue Mountains and a must visit when you travel Australia. We were there at dawn, which meant it was quiet with few people and the tourist buses hadn’t arrived yet. A magical view! After that, we wanted to hike, but due to the heavy morning fog, we chose a trail that led down into rainforest and canyons. This trail was called the Grand Canyon Walking Track and is one of the most visited. The hike goes through rainforest, past waterfalls, and also has nice views at Evens Lookout, and takes about 3-4 hours depending on your pace.

We then travel into the city and went to a footy match, the biggest sport in Australia. We didn’t understand all the rules, but it was very entertaining, and the atmosphere was fantastic. I really recommend checking the schedule and trying to see a match during your trip to be part of the local sports culture!

After that, we had booked a night at a simple hotel in Sydney to settle into the city.

Tip: More hiking trails and viewpoints in the Blue Mountains:

• Leura Cascades
• Govetts Leap

Check tickets for footy matches here: AFL Site

Our first accommodation in Sydney: Kith Hotel Darling Harbour

Day 14: Sydney – Bondi Beach

We started the day by returning the rental car, which was hard as we had gotten used to the freedom of having a car, but now it was time for the last part of the trip.

Then we switched to more centrally located accommodation and checked into a hostel to save money and socialize more with other travelers.

After that we took a bus to Bondi Beach, and if the weather is on your side, be sure to buy a good lunch and spend a few relaxing hours on the iconic beach. Feel the sand between your toes, enjoy the sun and the atmosphere.

Don’t miss checking out the world-famous Bondi Icebergs pool, which clings to the cliffs next to the beach. If you’re feeling brave, you can even take a refreshing dip in the saltwater.

Then, take a beautiful walk along the scenic coastal path that stretches from Bondi Beach to charming Bronte Beach. Along the way, you’ll be treated to fantastic views of the ocean, cliffs, and picturesque coves.

After an eventful day at the coast, return to Sydney to enjoy a good dinner at one of the many Asian restaurants and perhaps explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Our second accommodation in Sydney: Summer House Sydney City

Day 15: Sydney – Harbour Area

The day began with a visit to the Australian Museum, an excellent and free way to delve into the country’s history and nature. After that, we continued to the historic Hyde Park Barracks, also with free admission. To get an even richer experience, we chose to take an audio guide that provided fascinating insights into the building’s past.

Then it was time to see the world-famous Sydney Opera House. We went up onto the Sydney Harbour Bridge to enjoy the spectacular views of the Opera House, the harbor, and the city – a truly iconic experience.

Unfortunately, we weren’t lucky with the weather, so we spent a few hours in the elegant Queen Victoria Building, one of Sydney’s most iconic department stores. Here, we could admire the beautiful architecture and the exclusive atmosphere.

The evening ended in the charming neighborhood of The Rocks, known for its cozy bars and pubs. Here, we could relax and enjoy the historical atmosphere.

After that, we headed back to our accommodation to start packing and get ready for an early flight up towards Cairns.

It’s common to drive or take a bus north from Sydney via Brisbane and the Gold Coast. If you have time, it’s definitely recommended as there’s a lot to experience along the way. However, we chose to prioritize more time in the northern parts, which turned out to be a very good decision. During our time travel in Australia, one of the strongest cyclones in 20 years, Cyclone Albert, hit Brisbane...

Day 16: Fly to Cairns

Depending on when you land, you may have time to sort out a few things this day. We planned the days up north and booked/checked off the most important things.

• Book a rental car. We chose a local company called Mini Cars, which was an affordable option. Otherwise, I always recommend Discovercars to compare rental car prices.
• Book a snorkeling/diving trip to the Great Barrier Reef. We got help from Pro Dive. You can research this in advance and book online. It felt like the tours and boats filled up quickly. We went with a boat called Poseidon, which was a smaller boat compared to others, and it was really good with great staff.
• If you’re brave enough, you can book skydiving down by the harbor. We did this on our last day before heading home. More on that later.

Accommodation in Cairns: Cairns Queenslander Hotel & Apartments

Day 17: Cairns

In Cairns, we started our first full day by just relaxing by the beautiful lagoon – it was really needed in the oppressive heat we experienced during our visit. We spent many hours relaxing there!

In addition to the lagoon, we took the time to stroll around and discover the city’s charm. We visited the lively Cairns Esplanade, where there always seemed to be something happening, and enjoyed the greenery and tranquility of the Cairns Botanic Gardens, a really nice oasis. Another must-see was Rusty’s Market, a colorful experience with lots of local produce and goodies.

As evening approached, we took the opportunity to explore Cairns’ exciting bar and brewery scene. We even decided to try a pub crawl and followed the recommended route: from Rocco on to Whiskey and Wine, then to Salt House, then Hemingway’s Brewery, and finally Three Wolves. A really enjoyable evening with good drinks and a great atmosphere!

Day 18: Cairns → Port Douglas

Once we arrived in Atherton, we took the opportunity to have a good lunch before continuing our journey to Port Douglas. Now we set the GPS there and enjoyed driving past all the local farms and breweries that lined the road. We really took the opportunity to stop at some of them and bought fresh fruit and locally brewed beer and wine from the microbreweries – a perfect way to experience the region’s flavors!

A particular tip is to visit Golden Drop Winery. This place was truly unique because they are the only place in the world that produces mango wine! It was incredibly special and really tasty. As we understood it, it’s only sold there, which made the experience even more exclusive.

Eventually, after many interesting stops along the way, we finally arrived in Port Douglas. Upon arrival, we checked into our accommodation and then simply took it easy for the remainder of the evening, thoroughly satisfied with our eventful and scenic journey.

Accommodation in Port Douglas: Paradise Links Resort Port Douglas

Day 19: Great Barrier Reef

Our diving day was truly one of the highlights of the trip. Cairns/Port Douglas is known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, and there were quite a few different options when it came to diving and snorkeling tours. Several large companies offer day trips, and we noticed that Quicksilver Cruises seemed to be one of the dominant players with their large catamarans full of snorkelers.

However, we chose to go against the grain a bit and booked a tour with Poseidon. It was a smaller boat, more specialized in diving and snorkeling for a smaller group. From the very first moment, it felt like a good choice. The staff was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and the atmosphere on board was relaxed and personal. We really appreciated that it wasn’t as crowded as it looked on the larger boats.

Regardless of which boat you choose, our strongest advice is to absolutely make sure to get out to the outer reef. That’s where the magic really happens. The colors of the corals were absolutely incredible, in every shade imaginable, and the fish swam in schools all around us in a fantastic diversity. Just gliding over these underwater landscapes, whether you’re snorkeling or diving, is an experience that’s hard to describe in words. We can really highly recommend a tour with Poseidon for those who are interested in diving or snorkeling and prefer a slightly more intimate experience. Seeing the beauty of the outer reef is an absolute must when visiting Cairns and Port Douglas!

Day 20: Rainforest – Mossman Gorge

We chose to stay in cozy Port Douglas for a few days, which was a perfect base for exploring the nearby rainforest and taking convenient day trips.

Our first excursion took us to Mossman Gorge, a truly fascinating part of the Daintree Rainforest. We bought tickets for the shuttle bus that conveniently took us into the area, and then we set off on a wonderful hike through the incredibly green and lush rainforest. The sounds, smells, and sights of the unique vegetation were completely captivating, and the hike took us about 1-2 hours at a leisurely pace.

A really good tip is to pack swimwear if you visit Mossman Gorge! There are several places where you have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the clear river that winds through the jungle. However, it’s important to be aware of any currents and to follow the instructions provided to ensure safety.

After an eventful day in the rainforest, we drove back to Port Douglas. Since we had the luxury of staying at a nice resort, we took the opportunity to spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool and enjoying the pleasant atmosphere. Staying at a resort in these areas turned out to be really affordable and a great way to unwind after exciting excursions.

Day 21: Cape Tribulation

The day we explored Cape Tribulation was a real adventure, despite the weather gods not quite being on our side the whole time.

We started early from Port Douglas and made our first stop at one of the many crocodile safaris along the way. We chose a cruise with “Solar Whisper Wildlife and Crocodile Cruise on the Daintree River,” and it turned out to be an excellent choice. Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate, and despite the fact that it had rained a lot, which normally reduces the chances of seeing crocodiles, we were lucky enough to spot a female with a small crocodile hatchling! In addition, we also managed to catch a glimpse of a beautiful green tree frog.

Going to Cape Trib

After the exciting river cruise, we continued towards the ferry that takes you across the Daintree River to Cape Tribulation itself. Our first stop on the north side was the well-known Crocodile Beach. We took a walk along the beach and also visited a lookout that offered a fantastic view of the coast.

To really experience the rainforest up close, we then went to some of the nearby “boardwalks.” These walkways lead you through the dense vegetation and give you a unique feeling of being right in the jungle. We managed to explore Dubaji Boardwalk, Madja Boardwalk, and Kulki Boardwalk, each with its own charm and unique views

If you have more time in Cape Tribulation, there are several other exciting things to do. A swim in Masons Swimming Hole was tempting, and for the adventurous, there’s Treetops Adventure where you can see the rainforest from the treetops. In addition, early morning snorkeling tours are offered where you have the chance to see both turtles and sharks.

Continuing our streak of unfortunate weather, a real downpour arrived during the afternoon. Consequently, our original plan to stay overnight in Cape Tribulation was reconsidered. Since the weather was unfavorable and we had already managed to see our key interests, we felt an overnight stay wasn’t worthwhile. As a result, we chose to drive back to Port Douglas again. However, for those who desire ample time for all activities and a more relaxed pace, we would still highly recommend staying a night in Cape Tribulation.

Second accommodation in Port Douglas: Oaks Port Douglas Resort

Day 22: Back to Cairns

After our adventures in Cape Tribulation, it was time to take the coastal road back to Cairns. This stretch is truly a feast for the eyes, with fantastic views of the ocean and many beautiful beaches and viewpoints to stop at. We took our time and enjoyed every view along the way.

If you haven’t had enough of the rainforest, or if you missed it earlier, a visit to Kuranda is highly recommended. Here you can experience the unique Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, a cable car that takes you high above the treetops. First, you travel on the historic Scenic Railway through the tropical landscape, and then you glide over the rainforest on the Skyrail. The view is said to be magnificent! Unfortunately, we had bad luck with the weather during our trip and unfortunately had to skip this, but it’s high on the list for a possible future visit.

Once back in Cairns, we checked into our hotel and got ready to explore the city’s restaurant scene. There really is something for all tastes in Cairns, and we had several enjoyable evenings with good food and drinks.

Here are some restaurant recommendations:

• Fine Dining:
  • Nu Nu: Modern Australian by the water.
  • Ochre: Indigenous flavors, award-winning.
  • Tamarind: Elegant Asian fusion.
• Casual & Delicious:
  • Prawn Star: Fresh seafood straight from the boat.
  • Caffiend: Great café with good food.
  • The Pier Bar: Lively with a view, varied menu.
  • Hemingway’s Brewery: Local brewery with food.
  • Salt House: Stylish by the water.
• Budget & Local:
  • Rusty’s Market (Fri-Sun): Affordable street food.
  • Night Markets (evenings): Many cheap options.

Our last accommodation in Cairns: The Benson Hotel

Day 23: Full Day in Cairns with Skydive

Our last day in Australia began with an unforgettable adventure – a skydive at dawn over Cairns! The alarm rang early, and with a mix of nervousness and anticipation, we headed to the pick-up point. The journey out to the skydiving center gave us fantastic views of the awakening landscape. Once there, we were met by experienced and reassuring instructors who went through the safety procedures and what to expect.

Our skydiving experience:

Sitting in the small plane that slowly climbed towards the sky was a surreal experience. The tension increased with altitude, and when the door opened and the strong wind rushed in, it felt both terrifying and incredibly liberating. Then it was time – a step into the void!

The first seconds were a pure adrenaline rush in freefall, with the wind rushing past our ears and the ground rapidly approaching. But then, when the parachute opened, a sense of calm came over us. Soaring high in the air and looking out over the Great Barrier Reef and the surrounding landscape in the soft morning light was completely magical. It was a quiet and incredibly beautiful moment that gave us a whole new perspective on the world. It was a perfect ending to this trip.

The landing was smooth and safe, and we were met with a wide smile and a feeling of incredible euphoria. Having overcome the fear and experienced that freedom was a fantastic start to our last day. We were really lucky with the weather on this final day.

The sun shone brightly, and it was really hot, so after our skydive, we spent pleasant hours at Cairns Lagoon. There, we swam, enjoyed the sun, and took the opportunity to read a good book in peace and quiet. Our last evening culminated in a visit to some of Cairns’ many nice bars and pubs, where we raised a toast to all the fantastic experiences we had enjoyed during our trip.

Book your unforgettable experience here:

Day 24: Return Home

This was a full day dedicated to getting home. We flew back to Melbourne and then on home. About 42 hours later, we were back in Sweden… But this long journey there and back was definitely worth it. Australia is a country everyone should travel at some point in their lives, and we promise you’ll want to go back many times again.

Outro

Saying goodbye to Australia after our travel through it is tough, but I’m leaving with a full heart and a camera roll packed with incredible moments. This trip has been a reminder of why I love to travel: for the adventure, the connection, and the sheer joy of discovering new places. I’m already counting down the days until I can return to this amazing country.

Follow this itinerary if you want to travel and get a great Australia experience.

If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment.

If you want even more details about your destination, we really love guide books from Lonely Planet! Click on the link, book or use code “JESPEREDMAN10” in the checkout to get 10% off the price!

Youtube video for inspiration

Will be posted soon

Thanks for reading! We spend a lot of time on these posts, so if you enjoyed it, feel free to buy us a coffee!