A trip to Australia is not complete without a visit to our world famous landmarks, places that put Australia on the map. In every state and territory, a visitor can find great vacation destinations and accommodations for every budget. From natural wonders to man-made structures, there’s plenty to see and do.
Sydney Opera House
One of Australia’s most recognizable landmarks, the beautiful white sails of the Sydney Opera House rise up overlooking the harbour. Inaugurated in 1973, it hosts more than three thousand performances a year. Take a guided tour and admire the unique architecture, or better yet, reserve a seat for a performance of an opera, ballet, symphony orchestra, or play.
The Sydney Harbor Bridge
Another landmark that foreigners instantly recognize as Australia’s, the Sydney Harbor Bridge is also known as The Coat Hanger. Opened in 1932, it rises 134 meters above the port at its highest point. Connecting Sydney’s north and south shores for travel by car, bike, train and on foot, you can now scale the steel structure of the bridge. The Sydney Harbor Bridge Climb has been available to the public since 1998. Different climbs are available and it is one of Australia’s top tourist attractions.
Uluru
Formerly known as Ayers Rock, Uluru is the largest piece of rock in the world. Similar to an iceberg, much of its mass is hidden underground, but it is three hundred and forty-eight meters high. Guided walking tours are available around its perimeter. Once you could climb the rock, but now it is prohibited due to conservation. Uluru offers fantastic photo opportunities as the rock appears to change color from sunrise to sunset, and when it rains.
Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the only living structure that can be seen from space, as it stretches over 300,000 square kilometers along the Queensland coastline. The coral reef is home to a wide variety of tropical fish, marine life and beautiful colored corals. It is a major tourist destination and is accessible from many parts of the Queensland coast. Tourists can stay at a hotel on the mainland or at one of the many resorts on the island.
Cooper Pedy
Located in South Australia, Cooper Pedy was first established in 1915 with the opening of an opal mine. A unique location, the area is devoid of trees and most of its residents live in houses underground. In the early days, when there was no air conditioning, people built these houses underground to escape the heat. Today the practice continues and visitors can stay in an underground motel.
kangaroo island
For those wishing to see plenty of wildlife on their vacation, Kangaroo Island is a must-see. True to its name, there are kangaroos but also koalas, wallabies, platypuses and seal colonies. The island is also famous for its excellent seafood and local produce. There are many caves and rock formations to explore, as well as historical sites.