A trip to Australia is not complete without a visit to our world famous monuments, places that put Australia on the map. In all states and territories, a visitor can find excellent tourist destinations and accommodations to suit all budgets. From natural wonders to man-made structures, there is so much to see and do.
Sydney Opera House
One of Australia’s most recognizable landmarks, the beautiful white sails of the Sydney Opera House soar overlooking the harbor. Inaugurated in 1973, it houses 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 the opera, ballet, symphony orchestra or a play.
The Sydney Harbor Bridge
Another landmark that foreigners instantly recognized as Australia’s, the Sydney Harbor Bridge is also known as The Coat Hanger. Inaugurated in 1932, it stands one hundred and thirty-four meters above the port at its highest point. By connecting Sydney’s north and south shores for travel by car, bike, train and on foot, you can now scale the bridge’s steel frame. 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. Like an iceberg, much of its mass is hidden under the ground, but it is three hundred and forty-eight meters high. Guided walking tours are offered around its perimeter. You could once climb the rock, but now it’s banned for conservation reasons. 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, stretching over three hundred thousand square kilometers along the Queensland coast. The coral reef is home to a wide variety of tropical fish, marine life, and beautifully colored corals. It is a major tourist destination and can be accessed from many parts of the Queensland coastline. Tourists can stay in a continental hotel or in 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 underground houses to escape the heat. Today, the practice continues and visitors can stay in an underground motel.
Kangaroo island
For those who want to see lots of wildlife on their vacation, Kangaroo Island is a must see. True to its name there are kangaroos but also koalas, kangaroos, platypus and colonies of seals. The island is also famous for its excellent seafood and locally grown produce. There are many caves and rock formations to explore, as well as historical sites.