11 DAYS AIR/9 Days LAND: The Perfectly Paced First-Time Tour to Australia

Majestic Australia

Luggage Packed. Secrets Waiting. Let the Journey Begin.
The Land Down Under Awaits.

Best First Time Trip Down Under

Featuring InterContinental® and other Worldclass Brands


See Full ItinerarySEE ITINERARY | DATES & PRICES | FAQs | MAKE A RESERVATION

Meet Now Journey's Majestic Australia

Commence your Australian adventure with the iconic Sydney Opera House, where the juxtaposition of history, culture, and delectable cuisine sets the stage for an unforgettable journey. From the vibrant energy of Sydney, embark on a cultural odyssey to the heart of the continent with a visit to Ayers Rock, where the sacred monolith rises majestically against the vast Outback. Conclude your exploration in tropical Queensland, where the Great Barrier Reef beckons with its vibrant underwater wonders, and lush rainforests provide a serene backdrop for unforgettable adventures.

This Australian sojourn promises a diverse and captivating experience, blending urban sophistication, natural beauty, and cultural immersion.

★ Included on your Journey:

 Meet & Greet Airport Transfer direct to our hotel in Sydney, whenver you arrive!
• Sydney: Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Gateway to the Land Down Under
• Sightseeing Tours and Admissions, On-Tour Transfers
• Luggage Portage included throughout your Itinerary
• Ayers Rock: The Australian Outback, Uluru and the Olgas
• Queensland: Great Barrier Reef, Catamarran Adventure, Rain Forest, Koala, Kangaroo, Crocodiles and Natural Wonders
• No annoying Up-Selling while on tour
• No Big Buses or Groups, No Long Lines
• UNIQUE IN THE INDUSTRY DINING: Unlimited Premium Beverages
• PRIVILEGED ACCESSSkip-the-Long-Line Admissions with special access
• Local English-Speaking Expert Guides and Now Journey Tour Captain
• SMALL GROUP BENEFITS: Small group up to 16 guests of like-minded travelers
• No Hidden Costs: Fees, taxes and gratuities excluding the Tour Captain

The Authentic Land Down Under: Australia

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

OPTIONAL PRE-TOUR EXPERIENCE: MELBOURNE, 3 Days, 3 Nights
Experience the gateway to the land down under with Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road and the Aussie Wine Country.

TOUR COMMENCES:
SYDNEY
, Sydney in all her glory with the spectacular Harbour, bridge and the Opera House. Welcome to Australia.

AYER'S ROCK/ULURU IN THE OUTBACK, 2 Days, 2 Nights
The Australian continent's Red Center comes to technicolor life as we enjoy the heart of the Outback.

TOUR FINALE:
QUEENSLAND,
3 Days, 3 Nights
Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Rainforest

POST-TOUR EXPERIENCE: Consider our New Zealand Adventure or perhaps explore Perth and the Western Coast

 


Day-by-Day Itinerary

DAY 1: MELBOURNE, THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD

Florence Uffizi Gallery

Welcome to Melbourne. Upon arrival you will meet our driver for included transfer to the heart of Melboune, our home for the next 3 days and 3 nights. This is the Tour Commencement Day: You will depart from North America two days earlier. Example: May 1: Depart USA and arrive Melbourne on May 3rd —  two days later. This is because you "lose a day" crossing the International Dateline.

Australian Travel Visa: Your Responsibility
When traveling to Australia from the USA or Canada, you will need a valid passport and a visa to enter. Most U.S. & Canada passport holders traveling to Australia for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days can obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). The ETA is an electronic label-free visa and can be obtained at the ETA website for a small service fee. Inquire with your Journey Sales Associate with any questions regarding this visa. Visit Travel.State.Gov for more details.

Upon arrival, check-in and enjoy the balance of the afternoon at your leisure until our dinner tonight.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to Melbourne Dinner

Enjoy an included dinner hosted by your Now Journey Tour Captain.

Journey Hotels IconWhere We Stay in Melbourne, 3 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe Hotels Collection
The Langham or Similar

 

DAY 2: EXPLORING MELBOURNE

Journey Dinners IconBreakfast included daily

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Melbourne

Today, we will enjoy our Local Guide on our tour of Melbourne. Embark on our captivating walking tour of Melbourne, Australia, where the city's rich history and vibrant culture come to life. Wander through iconic laneways adorned with street art, explore historic arcades, and immerse yourself in the dynamic atmosphere of this cosmopolitan metropolis, discovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks along the way.

The afternoon is at your leisure.

Breakfast is included this morning should you have time before your departure.

 

Florence Uffizi Gallery

DAY 3: EXPLORING THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD

Sightseeing IconToday's Optional Adventure: Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road Adventure
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Australia's Great Ocean Road on our tour, taking in breathtaking views of iconic coastal landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles limestone stacks and Gibson's Steps. Marvel at the spectacular coastal scenery that unfolds along this picturesque journey.

We return later to the city. Tonight, your Journey Tour Captain invites you to an optional dinner or you may explore at your leisure.

 

 



Chapter 1: Amazing Sydney

DAY 1: WELCOME TO SYDNEY
Sydney Harbor and Opera House

Consider our pre-tour experience in Melbourne, gateway to the Great Ocean Road, cultural hub with art, cuisine, and unique neighborhoods.— Click here to see this amazing option.


★ Your Tour commences Today upon arrival to Sydney. Welcome to Sydney, the iconic gateway to the Land Down Under, where the stunning harbor, crowned by the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, greets visitors with a breathtaking first impression. This vibrant city embodies a perfect fusion of urban sophistication and natural beauty, offering a diverse tapestry of cultures, world-class dining, and a thriving arts scene. Explore sandy beaches, lush parks, and vibrant neighborhoods, as Sydney beckons with its warm hospitality and a gateway to the unique charm of Australia.

Orientation Walk IconProsecco IconDiscovery Walk with Now Journey Exclusive

In the afternoon, indulge in our Discovery Walk exploring the area around our Sydney hotel and the Circula Quay. Later, relish some leisure time before convening for an exquisite dining experience tonight.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to Sydney Dinner

Tonight, accompany your Tour Captain for an exclusive welcome dinner in Sydney, where our dinners include all-inclusive premium beverages, and you can select your choices from the menu.

Journey Hotels IconWhere We Stay in Sydney, 3 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe Hotels Collection
InterContinental Sydney or Similar

 


DAY 2: SYDNEY SIGHTS

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Tour of Sydney's Historic Rocks District

Embark on a captivating walking tour of Sydney with our expert Local Guide, delving into the city's rich history with a focus on the historic Rocks district. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with charming 19th-century buildings, explore heritage sites, and immerse yourself in tales of Australia's convict past and early colonial life, all while enjoying the picturesque views of Sydney Harbour.


We return to the hotel late afternoon for the balance of the day at leisure.

Tonight, join the Tour Captain for an optional dinner or explore at your leisure.

BACK TO TOP



DAY 3: DAY AT LEISURE IN SYDNEY

Enjoy a full free day at your leisure. For a delightful free afternoon in Sydney, consider strolling through the Royal Botanic Garden to soak in nature's beauty or exploring the iconic Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk for stunning coastal views. Alternatively, wander through the vibrant neighborhoods of Surry Hills or Newtown to discover eclectic shops, cozy cafes, and local art. Wrap up your afternoon by relaxing at one of Sydney's beautiful beaches, such as Bondi or Manly, and enjoy the serene ocean atmosphere.

Many options today from sailing, to climbing the bridge to enjoying an opera at the Opera House. Inquire for details.

Sightseeing IconToday's Optional Adventure: Climbing the Bridge!
Experience the exhilarating Sydney Harbour Climb, ascending the iconic Harbour Bridge for panoramic views of the stunning cityscape and harbor. Includes all digital photos of your Climb, exclusive landscape photography of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Harbour, fast-tracked access to your photos following your climb. $335 per person and inlcudes All Photos Package for 1-2 climbers.

Tonight, you're optionally invited to join the Tour Captain to a Sydney favorite for dinner or enjoy exploring at your leisure.

BACK TO TOP


Chapter 2: The Outback

DAY 4: WELCOME TO AYERS ROCK!

Uluru - Ayer's Rock

This morning we make our way to Ayer's Rock by Jet, the outback unfolds beneath us in a mesmerizing tapestry of rugged landscapes, showcasing the untamed beauty of Australia's vast and remote wilderness. Upon arrival, we will transfer to our lodging in the heart of the Australian continent.

Prosecco IconProper Greeting to Uluru

Enjoy the Tour Captain as they toast our arrival to the Australian Outback.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to the Outback Dinner

We have a special experience for tonight's dinner under the Southern Hemisphere.

Journey Hotels IconWhere We Stay in Ayer's Rock, 2 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe: Sails in the Desert

Lotus: Longitude 131˚

BACK TO TOP

 


DAY 5: ENJOYING THE RED CENTER
Uluru - Ayer's Rock

Enjoy a day at leisure with the amenities of the Ayer's Rock Resort —  truly amazing 5 Star enjoyment —  or you can also opt for an optional hike or experience in the area. So many options available!

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Consider joining your Tour Captain for an optional but included drive into the National Park, for great photos, and a bit of walking/trekking around The Olgas?

Tonight, we enjoy a pre-sunset apericena Aussie Style.

Prosecco IconPre-Sunset Canapé in the Outback

Savor a memorable evening with your Now Journey Tour Captain, appreciating the enchanting beauty of Ayers Rock as it transforms under the mesmerizing hues of the setting sun. Immerse yourself in the spiritual energy of this iconic landmark, known for its sacred significance to the indigenous people. Consider enhancing your experience by participating in an optional guided stargazing session, where the vast outback sky comes alive with a celestial display, adding an extra layer of magic to this already extraordinary journey.

Chapter 3: Queensland

DAY 6: WELCOME TO THE SUNSHINE STATE

Today we make our way to the airport for our Jet to Cairns. Upon arrival we transfer to Cairns, Queensland, our home for the next 3 days and nights.

Upon arrival, check-in and enjoy the balance of the afternoon at your leisure until our dinner tonight.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to the Sunshine State Dinner

Enjoy an included dinner hosted by your Journey Tour Captain.

Journey Hotels IconWhere We Stay in Queensland, 3 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe: The Palm Cove Resort or Similar

Lotus: The Palm Cove Resort: Suite

BACK TO TOP


The Great Barrier Reef

DAY 7: CRUISE THE TECHNICOLOR REEF
Great Barrier Reef

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Great Barrier Reef

Today you have an included option to experience a cruise on a catamaran to one of the outer reefs where you can take part in swimming, snorkeling or just enjoying the watercraft. It's a full day adventure and includes lunch.

The ocean is beautiful but not your thing today? Then consider an optional experience such as a helicopter ride along the coast and over the reef? Or how about a spa treatment at the resort? You cannot do all of these but you can do one of these today as we've included these options for you. So choose from the Great Barrier Reef Cruise, Helicopter Adventure, or Spa Treatment. There are other things to do in Queensland as well - just inquire.

Enjoy a SCUBA lesson onboard and then enjoy a beginner's dive with the Divemaster.
Are you a SCUBA certified diver? We have optional upgrades for SCUBA dives offered from Port Douglas.


DAY 8: AUSTRALIA'S CROCODILES, KOALA AND KANGAROO

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Hartley's Crocodile Adventures

Kangaroo BeachToday you have an included option to visit Hartley's Crocodile Adventures: See an array of native and exotic wildlife, enjoy entertaining and educational wildlife presentations all up close and personal. We also enjoy seeing Australia's own Koala and Kangaroo.

The crocodiles are amazing but not your thing today? Then enjoy time at our resort or opt for another experience. Inquire with us!

Prosecco IconCanapés with the Tour Captain

Enjoy a special delight this afternoon and then the day at lesiure.

The Tour Captain will invite you to optional dinner tonight or you may explore at your leisure.




DAY 9: DEPARTURE DAY

Your Australian adventure ends today or perhaps you extend your Journey to New Zealand.