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Unveil Australia's best destinations on a holiday of a lifetime, with hassle-free travel including First Class rail and internal flights.
Soak up iconic views of Sydney on a harbour dinner cruise, venture into the Blue Mountains to travel on the world's steepest railway and discover the sights of Melbourne while sailing along the Yarra River. A journey along the spectacular Great Ocean Road precedes wine-tastings in the Barossa Valley.
Enjoy unforgettable moments in Uluru, including a sunset Sounds of Silence dinner, before spending a day amongst the colourful marine life of the Great Barrier Reef.
What’s included
Your discovery of Australia's natural and cultural wonders begins as you meet the Tour Manager and the rest of the group at London Heathrow. Boarding our flight to Singapore, we are due to arrive early the next morning, local time.
During the flight, you can begin to look forward to a sensational holiday that takes in countless bucket list destinations. From Sydney and its iconic harbour, we will discover world-class wine regions, fascinating cities and natural wonders including Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef.
In Singapore, we join our flight to Sydney and arrive in Australia in the evening. After a transfer to our hotel and checking in for the next three nights, you are free to unwind.
After a long journey, relaxing is likely to be a priority, but if you're keen to step out and get to know your surroundings, our hotel is situated in Darling Harbour. This location offers several waterfront restaurants and is close to the central business district where you'll find many more attractions and inviting places to eat.
After a free morning, we get to know Sydney on a guided sightseeing tour. Travelling by coach, we visit the eastern suburbs that overlook Sydney Harbour. Enroute, we stop to view Mrs Macquarie's Chair, a sandstone bench hand-carved by convicts in 1810 for the wife of Governor Macquarie. Set on a scenic peninsula, it offers one of the best views of the iconic harbour.
Early this evening, we enjoy a holiday highlight: a cruise around Sydney Harbour. With a buffet dinner on board, this is a superb way to soak up some of the most iconic sights of the city. The most prominent is Sydney's stunning Opera House, the jewel in the city's crown and an architectural masterpiece. We also pass under one of Australia's most renowned landmarks, Sydney Harbour Bridge, the largest steel-arched bridge in the world.
Afterwards, we make the short journey back to our hotel.
Just 30 miles outside Sydney is today's destination: the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, so-named due to dense eucalyptus forests creating a bluish haze when sunlight hits.
First, we visit the unique Three Sisters rocks at Echo Point. These striking rock formations inspired an Aboriginal legend in which three sisters were turned to stone by their father to protect them from a tribal war. We continue to the charming Victorian-era village of Leura, where there's free time to find lunch. Our excursion continues with a trip on the world's steepest incline railway, the Katoomba Scenic Railway. Boasting a maximum incline of 52 degrees, this dramatic route was originally built for coal miners and plunges a distance of 534 feet in just 1361 feet. This short trip passes sandstone cliffs and enters a rock tunnel, before emerging into the ancient rainforest. After walking amid the tall rainforest trees, we return to the top of the valley and take the glass-bottom Scenic Skyway ride from the lookout point across the valley.
Returning to Sydney by coach, your evening is at leisure.
This morning, we take a short coach journey from our hotel to Sydney's Southern Cross rail station, where we join the cross-country train to Melbourne.
Travelling in First Class, lunch and dinner is available for you to buy, and it may be advisable to order your meals early in the day. This day-long rail journey takes us past open plains of Australian bush and farmland, mostly cattle and dairy farms, with stops at remote stations and towns with distinctive names, such as Wagga Wagga. As we approach Melbourne, landscapes change to fields of green and gold, reflecting the colours of Australia's flag.
On arrival into Melbourne this evening, we walk across the road from the Southern Cross Station to check in to our central hotel for three nights. This is the hub of Melbourne's buzzing central business district, which offers high-end shopping and a fantastic choice of restaurants including Japanese, Vietnamese, Chinese, French and Italian, alongside Australian fare - a healthy and inventive fusion of local and international cuisine.
Enjoy some free time this morning to explore Melbourne at your own pace, perhaps stopping for an early lunch at one of the city's many cafés or restaurants. Victoria's state capital is renowned for its world-class coffee culture and vibrant street art.
This afternoon, we join a sightseeing tour that takes us past Melbourne's key highlights, including the bustling central business district, Docklands, the Botanic Gardens and Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia's largest stadium. Afterwards, we experience the true charm of the Yarra River onboard one of Melbourne's most popular vessels with a one-hour sightseeing cruise, allowing us to view the city's skyline from a fresh perspective.
After the cruise, we take a short walk to the Melbourne Skydeck for panoramic views across the city. The nearby Southbank area along the Yarra River offers a variety of excellent restaurants, perfect for dinner this evening.
One of the world's most scenic roads is our focus today as we journey along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road. Travelling by coach, this spectacular route takes us past verdant forest, rushing waterfalls and glittering ocean. We're highly likely to see surfers, and we may even spot native birds or other coastal wildlife.
We make a short stop at a beach resort called Lorne, before arriving at the laid-back beach town of Apollo Bay where we break for lunch. We later move away from the coast and into the Great Otway National Park, then return to the shoreline to uncover the Shipwreck Coast. One of the most iconic sights is the Twelve Apostles, a famous collection of dramatic limestone rock pillars looming out of the surf, carved over time by the crashing waves.
Arriving back at our hotel this evening, you are free to dine independently at one of the many appealing restaurants in our local neighbourhood.
There's an early start this morning as we join the Overland train on a journey west to Adelaide. Breakfast and lunch are served on board as we travel through broad plains, rolling farmland and the shifting colours of the rural Victorian and South Australian landscape.
This attractive city was Australia's first major settlement, planned in 1836 as a free city. Its historic centre, known as the 'square mile' is still surrounded by 900 hectares of natural parkland. Called the 'city of churches', Adelaide is also celebrated for its elegant architecture, natural landscapes and relaxed charm.
On arrival in Adelaide this evening, we check in to our hotel in the heart of the city, overlooking Victoria Square. With a reputation for good food and wine, there are plenty of tempting places to eat this evening. Chinatown is just around the corner and Gouger Street, Adelaide's popular restaurant precinct, is close by.
After breakfast this morning, we travel by coach to the renowned Barossa Valley, one of Australia's most globally acclaimed wine regions. Adelaide is proudly recognised as one of the Great Wine Capitals of the World, and we delve into its rich wine heritage with visits to some of the area's most well-known vineyards.
Our day includes tours and tastings at iconic wineries such as Lambert Wines and the historic Seppeltsfield Estate, famed for its fortified wines. We enjoy a relaxed lunch amid the picturesque surroundings, pairing local flavours and world-class wines.
On our return journey to Adelaide this afternoon we visit Hahndorf, the oldest German settlement in Australia in the scenic surrounds of the Mount Lofty Ranges. There's time here to look around this historic town, which blends 19th-century Australian architecture with German flourishes. Back in Adelaide, you are free to dine independently and could try local specialities such as fish or seafood or choose from a wide selection of restaurants.
Today begins with an early morning transfer to Adelaide airport for a flight to Alice Springs, a remote town described as the beating heart of Australia's Red Centre. On arrival, we check in to our hotel for the night.
Afterwards, we visit one of the most visited landmarks in Alice Springs - Anzac Hill - a cenotaph and memorial commemorating those who died in World War One. Its position also provides sweeping views across the town and to the MacDonnell Ranges. Next, we continue to the Old Telegraph Station for a tour. The station marks the original site of the first European settlement in Alice Springs, established in 1871 to relay messages between Darwin and Adelaide. We also visit Alice Springs' School of the Air, where children are taught over the radio.
Our tour continues at the Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum, where we learn about the life-saving work of this air medical service, and the people who fly out to treat people in remote areas. We then return to our hotel for a free evening.
This morning, we leave Alice Springs and travel by coach through Australia's otherworldly Red Centre towards the spiritual heart of the Outback - Uluru. This iconic rock is the world's largest monolith, an incredible sight to behold as it rises 1,142 feet above the surrounding flat desert floor.
As we travel, we take in the scenery of the desert landscapes, ochre sands and rugged mountain ranges, before we stop along the way for lunch. We arrive to our hotel late afternoon and check in, with time to relax or enjoy the hotel facilities.
This evening, we experience a magical Uluru sunset, watching as the rock changes colour in the fading light. With drinks and snacks supplied, we witness the breathtaking spectacle as the golden light illuminates Uluru, before the hues darken, creating a dramatic contrast against the desert sky.
The natural beauty of the Uluru area is our focus today, beginning with a sunrise visit to the iconic monolith. Watching the sun's first rays dance across the vivid orange rock is an unforgettable moment.
After breakfast back at our hotel, we embark on a guided tour of the spectacular Olgas, the huge domed rock formations of Kata Tjuta National Park. These sacred sites hold deep spiritual significance for the Anangu people and are used for cultural ceremonies. The afternoon is free to relax by our hotel pool, enjoy the facilities or possibly visit the local shops in the complex.
This evening, we set off for a magical Sounds of Silence dinner in the desert, with Uluru's red rock as our magnificent backdrop, glowing as it shifts colour with the setting sun. Our meal begins with sparkling wine and canapés, followed by a barbecue buffet featuring a bush-inspired menu, selected drinks and dessert. Later, under the clear desert skies, a 'star talker' guides us through a captivating stargazing experience, revealing planets, constellations and galaxies visible in this extraordinary environment.
Leaving Uluru after breakfast, we transfer to the airport and fly to Cairns, arriving in the early afternoon. After a transfer to our hotel, overlooking the Trinity Wharf and ideal for exploring the area, we check in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in this Queensland city.
Known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a nature-lover's paradise, surrounded by mountainous rainforests, spectacular reefs and pristine beaches. You might be tempted to take a dip in the lagoon, walk along the waterfront promenade or relax at the hotel swimming pool or beach.
This evening, you could wander along the boardwalk of the Esplanade where there are several inviting alfresco restaurants to choose from for dinner.
A holiday highlight awaits today as we enjoy a full-day excursion into the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest and most complex coral reef system. From the harbour at Cairns, we board an air-conditioned catamaran for a cruise into this marine paradise, one of the seven wonders of the natural world. Our first stop is Green Island, a coral cay (a small sandy island on a coral reef) where we have two hours at leisure to explore this idyllic setting on a self-guided walk.
Continuing into the Great Barrier Reef, we moor alongside a pontoon for an onboard presentation and a buffet lunch, followed by an afternoon of viewing the unique wildlife and coral reefs from an underwater observatory. You can also experience the brilliant marine life close-up during a snorkelling session or catch a glimpse of tropical fish, giant clams and sea turtles from a glass-bottom boat.
We return to Cairns with a free evening to dine independently and you may like to wander through the Cairns Night Market, open each day from 4:30pm to 10pm.
This morning brings a unique experience as we transfer by coach to Rainforestation Nature Park, located within the beautiful tropical rainforest. There, we drive among the atmospheric scenery on a World War Two amphibious military transport unit known as an Army Duck. Next, on a guided Dreamtime Walk, we learn how indigenous Australians understand the world and its creation, before experiencing a pamagirri dance performance and a barbecue lunch.
Afterwards, we travel to Kuranda village in the rainforest, where there's time to look around the local craft market before heading to the station. Here, we board refurbished heritage carriages in Gold Class for a journey along the 125-year-old Kuranda Scenic Railway into the rainforest, through the stunning Barron River Gorge with its tropical vegetation and tumbling waterfalls.
After returning to Cairns along the same scenic route, you are free this evening to dine independently.
There's a leisurely morning in Cairns after breakfast during which you can choose to set out for some final sightseeing or buy souvenirs. Alternatively, take a relaxing walk along the harbour, soaking up views of the Coral Sea.
This afternoon, we transfer to Cairns airport for a flight to Singapore as we begin our journey home.
This epic Australian journey has taken us from the cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide to the sensational natural wonders of Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef, as we have absorbed many sides to this spectacular country. With journeys on scenic railways through the Blue Mountains and Queensland rainforest, and an iconic Sydney Harbour cruise, this tour has taken us across thousands of miles of Australia's vast and inspiring land.
We touch down in London Heathrow early today and you are free to make your way home.
Our Classic range is what we're known for. Enjoy curated moments with plenty of inclusions. Centrally located hotels, premium travel options and engaging group tours with a seasoned expert are included. You'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. *Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.
| 14 February 2028 | From £7,299 |
| 13 March 2028 | From £7,299 |
| 10 April 2028 | From £6,999 |
| 18 September 2028 | From £6,999 |
| 16 October 2028 | From £7,399 |
| 13 November 2028 | From £7,399 |
All prices are per person and assume full occupancy of the room.
Please always refer to the website for up-to-date prices and availability.
The historic Katoomba Scenic Railway, located in the stunning Blue Mountains in New South Wales, Australia, is the steepest cable-driven funicular railway in the world, with the steepest incline an astonishing 52 degrees. Passengers embark on a unique journey in the 84-seat glass roofed red train carriage. The train travels through sandstone cliffs, through a rock tunnel beside the tree covered Orphan Rock, before emerging to stunning panoramic views of the lush, ancient rainforest.
The unique Kuranda Scenic Railway has journeyed through tropical North Queensland for over 125 years, providing breathtaking views over one of the most stunning areas of Australia. The 23 mile (37 kilometre) long track winds through the lush green World Heritage Rainforest, past cascading waterfalls and a variety of different birds, fauna and reptiles, before it terminates at the small mountain village of Kuranda.
Demand for the railway began in 1882 when local tin miners began calling for a railway line which would lead them to the coast. Years of debate followed, with railway leagues from both Cairns and Port Douglas fighting for the right to the railway, before construction on the line officially began in 1886. Although initially designed for commuter purposes, the railway began operating as a tourist attraction as early as 1936 and today is used solely for this purpose, transporting tourists through the spectacular rainforest to the tropical village of Kuranda every day of the year except Christmas Day.
The frequent NSW TrainLink XPT service operates in and between several Australian cities, including Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Casino. On the route from Sydney to Melbourne, it passes through the through the suburbs of Campbelltown and Strathfield before entering the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, a mountainous wine-producing region that sits on the Great Dividing Range.
The XPT service continues through the Southern Tablelands, Cootamundra and the cities of Albury and Wagga Wagga before heading across the broad, flat plains of the Riverina, which comprise some of the most agriculturally productive land in Australia due to the favourable climate and a plentiful water supply. As it nears Melbourne, the train follows the Hume Highway through the state of Victoria, passing through Benalla and the cathedral city of Wangaratta before arriving at its destination.
On the Melbourne to Sydney route, this journey is reversed.
With its reputation as Australia's favourite steam train the century-old Puffing Billy is a treasure for rail enthusiasts. Running along a low-cost narrow gauge line constructed in Victoria during the early 1900s, the classic steam engine opened up rural areas and has been championed by the Puffing Billy Preservation Society since the Sixties. We journey on the Puffing Billy from Belgrave through the stunning Dandenong Ranges, crossing rustic timber bridges and passing scenic Emerald Lake Park and Wright State Forest.
The Overland train serves the route between Adelaide and Melbourne. During this daylight journey we travel in Red Premium Service, which offers passengers comfortable reclining seats and complimentary orange juice or water on boarding the train. Red Premium Service passengers have access to the licensed Red Service Café Carriage which serves a selection of snacks, meals and drinks. There is also an at-seat trolley service with snacks and drinks available for purchase, as well as a limited selection of a la carte dishes.
Nestled at the foot of the majestic MacDonnell Ranges in Alice Springs, this 4-Star hotel offers several facilities including a bar and grill, a wine and tapas bar, and a restaurant which offers modern Australian cuisine with outback influences. The hotel also has a heated pool, a spa bath and a 24-hour health and fitness centre. Guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, minibar and complimentary toiletries.
Set among indigenous gardens, this 4-Star hotel offers an outdoor pool with spa facilities, a grill restaurant and pool bar. Local shops can be accessed by a free shuttle bus. The hotel is only a short stroll to the lookout, where guests can view the desert sunset and Uluru. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, minibar and tea & coffee-making facilities.
Overlooking Trinity Harbour, this 4-Star hotel is located on the Cairns Esplanade, next to the waterfront boardwalks. The Bushfire restaurant serves a buffet breakfast seven days a week and award-winning cuisine in the evening. There is a lounge and an outdoor swimming pool. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, tea & coffee-making facilities, complimentary toiletries and hairdryer.
This 4-Star hotel is set in a heritage building in the centre of Melbourne, a short distance from Southbank, Docklands and the exclusive Collins Street boutiques and arcades. The hotel is just across the road from the Southern Cross Station and a minute's walk to the tram route, so guests have full access to all Melbourne has to offer. Facilities include a restaurant, the Alexander Bar, gym and spa. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, tea & coffee-making facilities, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.
Located in Sydney's central business district, this 4-Star hotel boasts views of Darling Harbour and the city skyline. Facilities include a restaurant, bistro and bar, which offer modern Australian cuisine. The hotel also has a fully equipped fitness centre with equipment including weights and yoga mats. On the doorstep are the bars and restaurants of Cockle Bay Wharf in Darling Harbour. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safety deposit box, ironing equipment, tea & coffee-making facilities, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.
Set in the heart of Adelaide city, this 4-Star hotel boasts a heated outdoor swimming pool, a 24-hour fitness centre and a tennis court with a jogging track. The hotel has a restaurant and a lobby lounge and bar. Guests can explore Adelaide's Central Market, which is located next door and around the corner you will find Chinatown and Gouger Street, Adelaide's largest restaurant precinct. You can catch a tram from directly outside the hotel to Glenelg Beach, which is a 20-minute ride away. Guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, minibar, tea & coffee-making facilities, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.
We offer a selection of upgrades and 'add-ons' designed to help you make the most of your holiday - and make it even easier!
Immerse yourself in another side of Australasia by combining your Australian odyssey with Great Rail Journeys' enchanting Grand Tour of New Zealand. Explore glorious mountain ranges, cruise across the beautiful Bay of Islands, discover multiple magnificent railway journeys and more on this fantastic 40-day holiday taking in the best of both countries. Please call for more details.
Flight upgrades are available. For information regarding the types of upgrades offered by the airlines we use, call our expert team for details.
Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.
We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.
Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.
We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.
For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.