Shimmering blue seas that glisten in the bright Aussie sunshine, towering cliffs that glow like golden paint in the afternoon light, wide open blue skies and hidden city laneways, brimming with wine bars and public art. This is Australia, where you really have to see our country’s beauty to believe it.

Whether you’re travelling with family, looking for the next delicious bite to fill your belly or itching for that bucket-list adventure out in the wide unknown, we have something for everyone.

Here are our top Aussie travel picks, for all traveller types.

Adventure Seekers

4WD tour of Cape Leveque, WA

Home to pristine stretches of coastline and wild natural wonders, Western Australia is built for 4WD adventures. Part of the mesmerising Kimberley region, Cape Leveque is a bucket-list destination in WA.

Accessible by 4WD, the area is a mysterious jewel in WA’s crown, and if you’re a keen off-roader, it’s definitely worth the extra distance. If you’d prefer someone else whisks you away to this wonderland, Kimberley Wild Adventure Tours offers a day tour with a return flight to Broome.

You’ll get to take a look through the Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, visit Kooljaman at Cape Leveque, swim in crystal-clear waters and soak up the undulating rocky coastline that’s as untouched as they come.

Kings Canyon escape, NT

The ochre tones of the Northern Territory are like a painting come to life. See the NT at its most spectacular at breathtaking Kings Canyon. Best taken in on foot, the canyon is ideal for a hike. The views from the top will make the trek worthwhile, with sweeping views across the quintessentially Aussie landscape where vibrant red earth meets wide open blue skies.

AAT Kings offers a comprehensive tour that takes you from Ayers Rock Resort, out to the canyon, where you’ll be able to explore with the aid of a guide. Take the canyon rim walk or venture along the creek bed. You’ll feel like Australia’s very own Indiana Jones.

Canberra from above, ACT

Home to incredible art galleries, historic and modern architecture, and bookended by sprawling national parks, Canberra is an unexpected delight. For something a little different, take it all in from above with a bird’s eye view.

See the nation’s capital from an impressive 3000ft in the air, thanks to Dawn Drifters air balloon tours. Rise above the city as golden morning sun hits the streets and treetops below. You can even indulge in a glass of champagne at the end of your flight, at the luxe Park Hyatt Hotel.

Foodies

Tastebud tour of Mornington, VIC

There’s no shortage of wineries dotted about Australia, from McLaren Vale in SA to Margaret River in WA, but when it comes to Victoria, Mornington Peninsula is a standout.

Perched on the coastline just over an hour south of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is home to a collection of wineries, eateries and vistas sure to settle you into holiday mode in no time. This seaside mecca is perfect for a road trip, with plenty of cafés to start your day, wineries where you can sip local vino and enjoy a platter for lunch, and even a brewery if you need a refreshing ale in between.

The scenery here is divine, too, with the ocean peeking through dense Aussie bushland at every twist and turn. Stay amongst the trees and wake up to birdsong, or rest your head and soak up the salty seaside air.

If you’d prefer someone takes you there, hop on a tour direct from Melbourne and take in the highlights. Wine Hop Tours offers bus tours of the region, including tastings at 4 wineries and lunch at a local eatery.

Adelaide market meander, SA

Abuzz with activity year-round, the Adelaide Central Market has a comforting hum that’ll have any foodie’s heart aflutter. Head in early and see the stallholders at work prepping for the day ahead.

The sizzling sound of eggs cooking and French toast oozing on hot pans can be heard as you meander the aisles. Dodge busy shoppers as they grab a bite and a cuppa before tackling the shopping list on an inevitably scrunched piece of pocket paper.

The Adelaide Central Market is one of the largest indoor markets in the Southern Hemisphere, and a must-visit on any trip to the city. Sample cheeses from faraway lands, fruits and veggies from local growers just up the hill, or snag a freshly baked pastry or baguette, straight from the oven.

Make your own way around the market or take a tour to learn more about this iconic foodie mecca. RAA members save on a range of market tours, from early-rise explorations that include breakfast and a guide, to interactive tasting experiences where you’ll meet and greet the producers.

Nature lovers

Cradle Mountain climb, TAS

It may be smaller than some of its neighbouring states, but Tassie sure packs a punch when it comes to natural wonders.

Whether you base yourself in lovely Launceston in the north, the state’s capital of Hobart, or even on the more remote west or east coasts, there’s jawdropping scenery everywhere you go.

Just 2 hours south-west of Launceston, Cradle Mountain is a place you have to see to believe. Even the journey to the mountain is spectacular, showcasing some of Tassie’s finest vistas. Rolling hills transform into vast farmland, and back into thick bush as you travel along the windy roads. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodation (or campsite) before you begin exploring.

With a range of hiking tracks throughout Cradle Mountain National Park, you can pick a walk that suits you and your travelling tribe. Don’t forget to wave g’day to the famous wombats that call the area home. As far as natural delights go, Dove Lake is one of the top sites to see.

If you have a little less time, or you’d prefer a guided experience, Gray Line can take you on a full-day tour from Launceston to Cradle Mountain, to see some bucket-list sites.

Ningaloo dive, WA

The Ningaloo Coast (and the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Marine Park) is like something out of a kid’s picture book. The vibrant blue waters of this remote WA bucket-list destination are not only a sight to behold – they’re also home to some gentle giants of the sea.

Humpback whales migrate through the area from around May through to October, and whale sharks settle in between March and August.

A range of tours are on offer during these times, to help you get a glimpse of the marvellous animals. There are only a few experiences on offer like this around the country. If you find yourself in WA, they’re a definite must on the travel hit list.

The Humpback Whale Swim and Catamaran Cruise by Ningaloo Discovery is one of the best ways to spy these elusive creatures. The catamaran is fitted with viewing platforms, so you can float above as they swim below.

There’s also a chance to get in the water, snorkels and all, to take in the wonders of the reef and hopefully get a closer look at the whales (safely and respectfully, of course). A collection of other tours are available online, too.

Art and culture aficionados

Mona immersion, TAS

Arguably one of the most exciting spaces in Australia’s art world, art-lovers have flocked to Mona since its opening in 2011. David Walsh’s Museum of Old and New Art is housed on a piece of land, almost like an island, that extends out from suburban Hobart.

The museum grounds also host accommodation, a winery, eateries and bars – all part of the larger immersive experience. We recommend getting the Mona Roma (the museum’s very own ferry) from Brooke Street Pier so you can soak up Hobart’s beautiful harbour along the way.

While there are some staple exhibitions, the museum regularly brings in new works, so there are plenty of excuses for repeat visits. No matter when you visit, you’ll find something to surprise, perplex, delight or enthral you. With a range of festivals, concerts and events in the annual calendar here, you could extend your stay to soak it up even longer.

RAA members get discounted tickets on combined Mona ferry and entry tickets. Plus, you’ll get a Hobart city tour in the package.

Opera House experience, NSW

Undeniably one of Australia’s most iconic sights, the Sydney Opera House is a Kodak moment for many Aussie travellers. The building is an architectural delight, and while the outside is often marvelled at, the inside and what it hosts are equally awe-inspiring.

Take a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed building – both inside and out – and learn more about what inspired Danish Architect Jørn Utzon. Taking 14 years to build from start to finish, the Opera House has many tales to tell. Take a tour and immerse yourself in this piece of architectural glory.

Today, the Opera House plays host to some of the world’s top artists as they perform on the coveted stage. While many travellers see the famous white sails on any given trip to Sydney, we’d recommend experiencing the sounds of operatic voices soaring through the ambient theatre space inside.

RAA members save on a range of tours and shows at the Sydney Opera House.

Mogo Wildlife Park animal encounters, NSW

Nestled on the New South Wales south coast, Mogo Wildlife Park has long been a favourite holiday destination for families. With its impressive collection of endangered and exotic animals, the park is privately owned and prides itself on the love and care it provides for its resident animals.

While some of the grounds were damaged in the recent devastating bushfires, the park is once again open to the public – another wonderful reason to show your support with a visit.

You’ll find a range of up-close and personal experiences on offer, as well as talks and even camping on-site. RAA members save on admission, with informative keeper talks included in your day pass. Step into a wild and wonderful world, where little ones can learn about the fragility and beauty of creatures, both great and small.