- The itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
(Day 1) – International Flight, Los Angeles to Melbourne (can be included on request)
Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Melbourne. Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!
(Day 2) – Shuttle Transfer, Melbourne Airport to Accommodation
Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Melbourne, Australia.
(Days 2 to 6) – 4 Nights Accommodation in Melbourne
Travel to your accommodation in Melbourne, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 nights.
Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is located in the heart of Melbourne, Australia. Its suites are equipped with kitchenettes, air conditioning, and ensuite bathrooms. Most are facing on to the hotel’s private European style courtyard. Vacation accommodation is close to Chinatown. Or perhaps stroll to the Southern Cross Station and travel by tram throughout the city. For the less adventurous, Melbourne is the perfect launching pad for day tours to such places as Phillip Island and Penguins, or perhaps the Great Ocean Road.
(Day 3) – Day Tour – Great Ocean Road Tour
The spectacular Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most popular destinations. Experience views of uninterrupted beaches, dramatic coastlines and the lush rainforest of the Otway Ranges with a small group Eco-tour. Travel west to the start of the Great Ocean Road and pass the coastal towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay. Arrive at the iconic Cape Otway Lighthouse, mainland Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse and enjoy breathtaking views over the Southern Ocean and the Bass Strait from the lighthouse. Discover the Shipwreck Coast, stroll along the historic beaches and see Loch Ard Gorge. Arrive at the 12 Apostles and descend the Gibson’s Steps where you will be dwarfed by the high cliff line and these enormous offshore stacks. With small tour groups, there is plenty of time to get out and explore nature at its very best.
The highlights of your Great Ocean Road adventure include a visit to Bells Beach where you’ll see one of Australia’s famous surfing beaches, world-renowned for the Rip Curl Surfing Pro. Enjoy the breathtaking view from iconic Cape Otway Lighthouse and learn about the fascinating history of the aboriginal owners of the Gadabanud peoples’ cultural center. You will be afforded stops where you’ll see wildlife like Eastern grey kangaroos, koalas and native birds in the wild. Pass through coastal towns of Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Port Campbell. Enjoy a rainforest experience in the luscious surrounds of the Otway rainforest and marvel at some of the tallest eucalyptus trees in Australia
You’ll be able to step down to the beach at Gibson Steps, the gateway to the 12 Apostles, where you will be dwarfed by the high cliff line and these enormous offshore stacks. Visit Loch Ard Gorge where you’ll discover the history of the Shipwreck Coast with a stroll along this historic beach.
(Days 4 to 5) – Free Days to Explore Melbourne
Today you’ll have the day free to Explore Melbourne City’s vast shopping centers, markets, and boutiques, maybe do some souvenir shopping.
Melbourne is a Multicultural City boasting many boutique cafes, wineries, and extensive shopping. You’ll also find it very easy to get around on the trains and trams, especially within the inners of Melbourne.
Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Melbourne City Tour – ½ Day morning
Discover the beauty of Melbourne on this morning coach tour.
The city of Melbourne is a wonderful blend of heritage architecture, modern skyscrapers, and contemporary designs. Vibrant cafes and cosmopolitan restaurants, colorful parklands and beautiful waterways are all found throughout this charming city.
Discover its appeal for yourself and explore the cosmopolitan city with wide boulevards and fine historic buildings. View Bourke Street Mall and the tree-lined beauty of Collins Street, the ultimate shopping strip and business center.
View fine examples of Melbourne’s architectural splendor, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Princess and Regent Theatres. Also see Melbourne Town Hall, the Royal Exhibition Buildings and Federation Square. Stroll around Melbourne’s spectacular Royal Botanic Gardens. Visit the picturesque Fitzroy Gardens and explore Captain Cooks Cottage (optional, additional expense). See the bustling Queen Victoria Market and tranquil Albert Park Lake.
See the city’s world-renowned sporting arenas, including the MCG and Rod Laver Arena (home of the Australian Tennis Open). Pay tribute to the soldiers of war at the historic Shrine of Remembrance. View Southbank, a world of waterfront shopping, dining and arts incorporating the Southgate Arts and Leisure Precinct and Crown Entertainment Complex (casino). Cross the West Gate Bridge for amazing views of the city skyline as well as the scenic bayside suburbs, St. Kilda and Albert Park.
Operates Daily, except December 25 & January 1.
Need to Know: Tour departs and returns at Federation Square.
Tour departs at 8:15 am and returns at 11:50 am, lasting approximately 3.5 – 4 hours.
Inclusions: Experienced driver guide., Comprehensive commentary., Travel in an air-conditioned coach.
Optional Day Tour (Not Included) – Hidden Secrets of Melbourne Tours
Discover the secrets of creative Melbourne with this dynamic half-day, small group, guided walking tour!
Join your passionate local guide who is more of an aficionado, as they take you around the style capital of Australia, Melbourne to the best salons, studios and hidden hotspots. You’ll practically become a local before lunch, on this half-day indulgent walking tour where you can immerse yourself in the historical, architectural, cultural insights while exploring more than 30 exquisite boutiques. After your casual tour, make it a day by returning to your favorite spots visited in the city of marvelous Melbourne! If you have other interests also check out alternate tours available (listed below).
Operation Days: Daily except for Sundays
Estimated Times: Departure: 10:00am Return: 2:00pm
Includes: 3-hour walking tour, small group (8 pax maximum, 2 pax minimum), Goodie bag, morning tea, SHOP Guide, city map, gourmet lunch with a glass of wine
Alternate Tours: Cafe Culture Walk (Monday – Friday), Progressive Degustation Walk (Monday -Thursday), Golden Mile Heritage Walk (Daily), Progressive High Tea Stroll (Thursday and Saturday), Liquid Crafts Walk (Monday and Wednesday)
Optional Day Tour (Not Included) – National Australian Sports Museum
Experience the essence of Australia through the pride of sports.
Located within iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is Australia’s greatest showcase of sports at the world-class National Sports Museum which honors Australian Football, cricket, soccer, Olympic Games and more! Immerse yourself in this spiritual home of sports contained within a new, modern museum on two levels of the MCG’s new Olympic Stand. See over 2500 of the finest sports-related artifacts from Australia’s rich sporting history along with innovative interactive technology. The eight permanent exhibitions will offer insight into all levels of achievement, values, fair play and the pursuit of excellence of Australian sportsmen and women. It is recommended to spend at least one to one and a half hours touring the Museum. Re-entry is available on the day of your original entry ticket. The cafe is available for coffee and lunch (own expense).
Operation Days: Daily Estimated Times*:
Open: 10:00am
Close: 5:00pm
Last Entry: 4:00pm
Includes: Entry into the National Sports Museum with Audio Tour
Walking Time* – Approximately 10 minutes from Federation Square
*Times may vary on weekends for Event Days or Public Holidays
(Day 6) – Shuttle Transfer, Melbourne Accommodation to Airport
Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation to the Airport in Melbourne, Australia.
(Day 6 cont) – Australian Domestic Flight, Melbourne to Launceston, Tasmania
Travel within Australia by Domestic Air from Melbourne to Launceston Tasmania.
(Days 6 to 10) – Rental Car: Pick up in Launceston and Drop off in Hobart
Discover Australia as you travel by rental car for four days.
As part of your vacation self-drive Australia and explore our stunning landscapes, coastlines, regional towns, and wildlife. Stop and meet the locals, maybe enjoy a counter meal at a local Aussie pub, or relax on the beach while sampling some takeaway fish & chips from the local deli or servo. During one of your rest stops try to spot a kangaroo, emu or even a Koala in the wild.
Please bring a valid American driver’s license with you and be aware that the Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road.
*Base rate only included. GPS, Insurance, Premium Location Surcharge, Fuel and Fees are separate expenses to driver’s credit cards.
(Days 6 to 8) – 2 Nights Accommodation in Launceston
Travel to your accommodation in Tasmania, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.
Your vacation accommodation is conveniently located in the city center, 15 minutes drive from the airport, 2 minutes walk from the main shopping precinct and features 116 rooms. It includes a contemporary restaurant set around a central fish tank that specializes in modern Australian cuisine with an emphasis on the freshest seafood and exquisite local Tasmanian produce. It is famous for its Friday night seafood buffet which is a favorite with locals! The cocktail bar features an original No. 11 Tram and serves as a vibrant meeting place for both hotel guests and locals. There are also many local attractions to explore and participate in such as the Launceston Planetarium, James Boag Brewery, Launceston Seaport, Penny Royal World, Cataract Gorge, and the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania, just to name a few. In Launceston, there is something for everyone!
(Day 7) – Free Day to Explore Launceston
Free time to rest, relax or explore.
Optional Day Tour (Not Included) – Launceston City Sights Tip
Discover Launceston’s intriguing stories.
Take a coach tour of Launceston city or enjoy a Tamar River cruise on the luxury ‘Tamar Odyssey’ or ‘Lady Launceston’. Explore Launceston by night with a Ghost Tour at dusk through the city’s history with a professional theatrical guide.
Take a Heritage Walk to explore the city’s history, colonial churches and fine buildings (self-guided walk brochure and details of guided historic walks are available. Browse George Street’s crafts and gift shops and the Inveresk Cultural Precinct with it’s Sunday market, art & craft. Visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery housed at Inveresk and at Royal Park. Don’t miss the Planetarium at Royal Park and Aurora Stadium (Tasmania’s home of AFL).
See Tasmanian devils and other wildlife at nearby Launceston Lakes or visit Launceston’s colony of Japanese macaque monkeys in their home in City Park.
Follow the ‘Tamar Valley Wine Route from Legana to sample award-winning wines and cheeses, or visit the Boag’s Centre for Beer Lovers for tours and tastings of Tasmania’s ‘other sparkling’. get high in the Cataract Gorge and join a guided rock-climbing and abseiling group, or be challenged by cable hang gliding at Trevallyn. then, be pampered with an indulgent dip in the hot pools and spas at the Aquarius Roman Baths.
(Days 8 to 10) – 2 Nights Accommodation in Hobart
Travel to your accommodation in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.
Your vacation accommodation is located in the city center, only two blocks from the main shopping mall. The hotel features a bar and restaurant and local artwork in a contemporary setting, while the rooms have recently been redecorated to create a modern fresh feel and offer either city or mountain views and WiFi wireless Internet access. Hobart is a pretty city located on the Derwent River with many waterfront restaurants and cafes. In Salamanca Place, stroll around the 1830’s era sandstone warehouses now converted to galleries, shops, and restaurants. Every Saturday this area is a bustling outdoor market featuring live music, stalls with locally made crafts, artisanal cheese, honey, lavender products and more. Take a drive to the summit of Mt Wellington for unsurpassed views over Hobart and enjoy one of Tasmania’s Great Short Walks in the Mt Wellington Reserve.
(Day 9) – Free Day to Explore Hobart
Free time to rest, relax or explore.
Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Tasmanian Devils and Wildlife Tour – 3 hours
See Tasmania’s special species, Devils, Quolls, Wombats, Echidna and you can hand feed the Forester Kangaroos. Meet a variety of wildlife at Bonorong Park Wildlife Centre near Brighton.
Adults and children alike will be fascinated by Tasmania’s special species, Devils, Quolls, Wombats, Echidna and you can hand feed the Forester Kangaroos with complimentary food, share unforgettable moments with the Koalas and their dedicated keepers. Enhance your visit with a light lunch or Damper with jam and cream on the verandah of the Bush Shed Cafe and look for interesting wildlife and Australiana souvenirs in the Bush Gift Shop.
Then capture the essence of Richmond, where you can discover local crafts, see St.John’s Church and Richmond Bridge.
(Day 10) – Australian Domestic Flight, Hobart, Tasmania to Sydney
Travel within Australia by domestic air from Hobart to Sydney.
(Day 10 cont) – Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Airport to Accommodation
Travel by shuttle transfer from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.
(Days 10 to 14) – 4 Nights Accommodation in Sydney
Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 nights.
Embrace Sydney’s best location with this four-star vacation accommodation ideally nestled in the heart of the city. Overlooking Wynyard Park you will enjoy this icon of time-honored tradition, warm hospitality, and friendly personal service. Just a short stroll away from many famous attractions including the Sydney Opera House, The Rocks, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, The Royal Botanical Gardens and more. You will love the luxury of the close accessibility to public transportation including light rail access, train station, the bus system, and nearby Circular Quay which will allow you to see much more of Sydney and surrounds. Featuring: 446 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, 2 restaurants, 4 bars, indoor heated pool, sauna, spa, and gymnasium. Amenities: air conditioning, daily maid service, fridge, iron & board, radio channels, shower, coffee & tea, ensuite bathroom, hairdryer, shaving adaptor, sprinklers, smoke detectors, television, telephone, internet access (broadband), data port, wake up calls, mini bar, and 24 hour room service. With all this and more take time out to experience the wonders of Sydney while enjoying all your accommodation has to offer.
*Upgrade Available (Upon Request): Stunning 5 Star Property – Fees Apply
(Days 11 – 13) – Free Days to Explore Sydney
With Sydney at your fingertips, take the chance to explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities.
Walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbor-side Taronga Park Zoo, or take the 30-minute ferry ride to Manly Beach, Sydney’s premier beach resort. Here you can enjoy the laid back beach culture as well as many festivals and events. If you prefer to stay closer to downtown Sydney, Bondi Beach is approximately a 10-minute train ride and is one of Australia’s most famous and iconic beaches. Save some time to take a beach walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach, it’s known to be a true highlight. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs.
Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Hot Air Balloon ride over Sydney
Hot-air ballooning over the Sydney Camden Valley with Breakfast.
Look out one side of the basket and the Blue Mountains are at your feet, look out the other side… and on a clear day, the Sydney skyline and harbor glisten in the distance. Look below and be amazed that such green rolling fields are in such close proximity to the city. A truly spectacular experience.
Operates: Fridays – Sundays Year-Round
May operate on Mondays or Thursdays during busy times of the year.
Times: Early Morning Pick-Up at Hotel, time to be confirmed after booking.
Inclusions: One hour flight; Tea & coffee on arrival; Return transfers from any Sydney CBD hotels; Insurance & levy; Sumptuous buffet breakfast and champagne celebration
Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Sydney Harbour Bridge climb – ½ Day
Reach new heights and climb the famous Harbour Bridge in Sydney!
Achieve exhilaration and personal satisfaction as you climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. For approximately 3.5 hours you and 11 other eager climbers will join a climb guide and weave through catwalks, climb up ladders and then arrive at the most spectacular point of all – the upper arch climb. The steady incline to the upper arch leaves you free to focus your attention on your Sydney experience, with opportunities for 360 degree views of Sydney, including east to the ocean, west to the mountains and the harbor city surrounds.
Need to Know: Wear comfortable, enclosed rubber-soled shoes and comfortable clothing; Secure lockers will be provided to store your personal belongings; No cameras, phones, GoPros or other video and mobile devices are allowed on the climb; Children ages 8 – 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Children younger than 8 are not permitted on the climb; Maximum of 14 people per group.
Times: The climb lasts approximately 3.5 hours. Climbs are available at dawn (limited departures), day, twilight or night.
Inclusions: BridgeClimb cap; Certificate of Achievement;
Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Jenolan Caves & Blue Mountains – Full Day
Today enjoy a tour to the Jenolan Caves and the Blue Mountains.
Enjoy discovering the beauty of World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park (near Katoomba), taking in views over stunning eucalyptus forests and age-old rock formations and the unusual Blue Lake. Also visit the western spur and see Australia’s largest and best known underground limestone caves called Jenolan Caves. Explore this extensive network of caves, tucked away inside a sleepy valley. Enjoy a fully guided tour of the Lucas, Imperial or Chifley caves and discover the deep chamber of intricate limestone formations. Learn about the folklore of the settlers and bushrangers of this region. Overnight tour available.
Operates Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Jenolan Caves & Blue Mountains, Sydney, Australia
Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Sydney Opera House Performance
Enjoy a spectacular performance at the Sydney Opera House.
The Showcase package allows visitors to see a performance of choice and enjoy a drink during the interval under the sails of the Sydney Opera House.
This package also includes a voucher for a guided tour of Sydney Opera House which can be redeemed at any point during your stay.
Inclusions:
Priority access to best available performance tickets via the Tourism Reservations team, Personal meet and greet at SOH Information Desk by a member of the Tourism team, Voucher for a Guided Tour of Sydney Opera House, Drink at Interval (includes soft drinks, premium Australian wine and beer, as well as spirits and cocktails) and Exclusive Sydney Opera House value-add gift.
(Day 14) – Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport
Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia, to the Airport.
(Day 14) – Australian Domestic Flight, Sydney to Cairns
Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to the gateway of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns.
(Day 14) – Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Airport to Port Douglas Accommodation
Travel by shuttle from Cairns Airport to your vacation accommodation in Port Douglas, Australia.
Luggage restrictions apply as per standard economy Australian domestic flights of 2 standard bags under 30kg (66 lbs) per passenger. If traveling with excess baggage please advise the shuttle company upon reservation confirmation so appropriate trailer size is available.
Departures occur approximately 30 minutes after aircraft arrival-time for domestic flights. For international flights, this will be considerably longer because of customs and other formalities.
(Days 14 to 18) – 4 Nights Accommodation in Port Douglas
Travel to your accommodation in Port Douglas, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 nights.
Perfectly situated on Macrossan Street, Port Douglas’ main street, your accommodation is surrounded by outdoor cafes serving world-class cuisine, resort shops, and galleries. The traditional colonial-style architecture and cedar-accented modern furnishings offer all the charm of the past with the comforts of the present. This 4-star resort offers beautifully appointed hotel rooms and suites and is located opposite Dickson’s Inlet.
Spend your vacation days snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, trekking the World Heritage Daintree Rainforest, visiting a crocodile farm, wandering through a butterfly sanctuary, riding a scenic mountain railway, or experiencing Tropical North Queensland’s many other unique pastimes. The traditional colonial-style architecture and cedar-accented modern furnishings offer all the charm of the past with the comforts of the present.
(Days 15 – 17) – Free Days to Explore Port Douglas
Experience the distinctive laid back atmosphere and low-rise tropical old world charm of Port Douglas!
Experience a range of attractions from one of the many galleries to the great shopping districts. Stop for a bite to eat at the Marina Mirage and take a walk on the boardwalk while you’re there. Take a visit to Port Douglas’ first church, Saint Mary’s by the Sea and see fantastic views of the Coral Sea and distant mountains. Don’t forget to soak up the sun at Four Mile Beach or even take in a game of golf.
Whatever your tastes happen to be, Port Douglas is a great place to relax and simply enjoy the many great features of this town.
(Day 16) – Day Tour – Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Today you will cruise out to the crystal clear waters, beautiful corals and incredible fish life found at the Agincourt Ribbon Reefs located on the very outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef, which is the best possible for boat diving and snorkeling.
Your cruise will include courtesy transfers from the Port Douglas area, Morning and Afternoon tea, Delicious tropical buffet lunch, reef interpretation talk, guided snorkel tour with marine naturalist, all snorkel equipment and tuition to include prescription masks, flotation devices, spacious air-conditioned bar and saloon area, 3 spectacular reef sites, professional photographer on board.
(Day 18) – Shuttle Transfer, Port Douglas Accommodation to Cairns Airport
Travel by shuttle from your Port Douglas vacation accommodation to the Airport in Cairns, Australia.
Luggage restrictions apply as per standard economy Australian domestic flights of 2 standard bags under 30kg (66 lbs) per passenger. If traveling with excess baggage please advise the shuttle company upon reservation confirmation so appropriate trailer size is available.
(Day 18) – Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Sydney
Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Sydney.
(Day 18) – International Flight, Sydney to Los Angeles (flight can be included on request)
Depart Sydney from the International Airport and fly to Los Angeles. Note: You will be traveling back across the International Date line so you will gain a day. You actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Australia.
