Australian cities offer backpackers a mix of cosmopolitan culture, outdoor living, great nightlife and some of the best coffee you will ever drink.
Throw into the mix the fact that all of these cities aren’t more than a couple of hours away from some of the most amazing landscapes, natural wonders and wildlife and you’ll soon begin to realise why so many people come here and never leave.
Sydney
Sydney is one of the most famous cities in the world – and for good reason. Home to the iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House, over 70 stunning beaches and vibrant suburbs – this city has the right balance of relaxed and outdoor lifestyle and cosmopolitan culture.
City Highlights
· Walk over the Sydney Harbour Bridge for amazing views and great photo opportunities
· Do the Bondi to Coogee walk for beaches, parks, cliffs, bays and rock pools.
· Drive your rented car or campervan up into the Blue Mountains for stunning landscapes and breathtaking views.
Melbourne
Victoria’s capital is a well-planned city, with its wide streets and excellent tram network. It’s famous for its culture, festivals, food and fantastic coffee.
It’s also been named as the world’s most liveable city – no less than four times running – which is pretty impressive to say the least. All this makes Melbourne the perfect place for backpackers to stop off, park up and go exploring.
City Highlights
· Get lost exploring Melbourne’s many hidden and winding lanes.
· Spend an afternoon soaking up the atmosphere in the Queen Victoria Market, home to shops and stalls selling a mix of food, arts, souvenirs and locally made goods.
Canberra
Canberra is the national capital of Australia – it’s also the largest inland city in the country. Canberra is also one of the few cities in the world where the natural bush land and parks were integrated into the original plan for the city.
City Highlights
· Visit the National Gallery with over 165,000 pieces of art.
· Hike up Black Mountain for panoramic views of the city.
· Visit Lake Burley Griffin for rowing, sailing, kayaking and canoeing.
Brisbane
Stunning beaches, year round sunshine and a relaxed culture make Brisbane the perfect place to pull up in your campervan or car and get stuck into Aussie beach life. Warm tropical days and nights make it easy to make the most of your time here.
City Highlights
· Spend the day at Streets Beach, Australia’s only inner city beach with lagoon and white sandy beaches.
· Stroll around the South Bank Lifestyle Markets held every Friday to Sunday for local arts, crafts and fashion.
Adelaide
Located in South Australia, this city is not only on the doorstep of some of the country’s best wineries, but it also offers residents and visitors a great blend of parks, historic buildings and culture, with hills to the east and beaches to the west.
City Highlights
· Soak up the café culture on Rundle Street in the heart of the city.
· Take the tram to Glenelg, a popular season destination with many nearby cafes, restaurants and bars.
Perth
Perth is the largest city in the state of Western Australia, the city of sun, surf and relaxed vibes.With bars, restaurants, perfect picnic spots and one of the world’s largest inner city parks – Perth is perfect for backpackers who are looking to relax into Aussie life.
City Highlights
· Fishing, picnics, walking and cycling are all a big part of daily life here – get involved.
· Take a day trip to the historic port of Freemantle.
Darwin
Surrounded by the sea on three sides, Darwin is Australia’s only tropical city. Darwin is a small city, and there aren’t many skyscrapers and high-rise buildings here, but this makes it easy to get around.
City Highlights
· Step back in time with a visit to the World War 2 Oil Storage Tunnels – hidden deep beneath the city.
· Get snap happy with a visit to Crocodylus Park, home to more than a thousand crocodiles.
A road trip in a hired campervan or car is one of the best and most economical ways of travelling around Australian cities. If you are planning a trip Down Under and will be travelling between the cities, then check this out as a possibility.
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