13-Nights Across Australia in Pure Luxury from $18,965
Swain Destinations
OFFER ID 1677648
Explore Australia from coast to coast in pure luxury on this extraordinary journey. Your adventure features a cross-country rail experience aboard the Indian Pacific's newest ultra-luxe offering, paired with vibrant cities and breathtaking landscapes—from Melbourne's hidden laneways to Perth's sun-kissed West Coast, from the world-class wines of the Barossa Valley to Sydney's iconic harbor. Savor exquisite culinary experiences, encounter iconic wildlife, and discover some of the nation's most celebrated sights along the way.
Your Itinerary Includes:
- Roundtrip airport transfers
- 3 nights Melbourne
- Boroughs of Melbourne Experience
- Lanes & Arcades Walking Tour
- 3 nights Perth
- Perth, Fremantle Sightseeing Tour
- 4 nights Indian Pacific Train Aurora Suite, all-inclusive
- 3 nights Sydney
- Sydney In Style Tour
- Sydney Secrets Lunch Cruise
- Meals: 13 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 4 dinners
13 nights from $18,965 per person
Itinerary Details
Day 1 Welcome to Melbourne, Australia
Welcome to Melbourne. You'll be greeted and taken to your accommodation by private vehicle.
Nowhere in the country, indeed the Southern Hemisphere, is there an entertainment complex with the excitement and style of Crown. At the glittering heart of Melbourne's world-class Crown Entertainment Complex is the luxurious Crown Towers Hotel. With a reputation for beautiful parks and gardens, wonderful shopping, spectacular special events and a rich tapestry of art and culinary fare, Melbourne is truly one of the world's most exciting cities. The five-star Crown Towers hotel is ideally located on the banks of the Yarra River which is a short stroll from the vibrant central business district and arts precinct. With 500 rooms and suites, convention and meeting facilities, business centers and the luxurious Crown Spa, it is the perfect destination for travelers.
Crown Towers Melbourne
Day 2 Boroughs Of Melbourne Experience
Australia's undisputed capital of culture and ‘cool' is a stunning blend of 19th Century grandeur, innovation, color and creativity. Art, sport, architecture, design, food, music… if you love cities (and maybe even if you don't), you will love Melbourne. From bohemian Fitzroy to lovely seaside St. Kilda—from Little Italy to Little Saigon, travel between worlds and get acquainted with the many faces of Melbourne. Enjoy this suggested, yet highly flexible, itinerary.
Explore Melbourne's inner city and local boroughs, uncovering hidden secrets known only to locals. Discover vibrant laneways and elegant 19th-century arcades, and delve into the unique characters and culture that shaped neighborhoods like bayside St. Kilda and lively Fitzroy. Your host will share fascinating insights and hidden gems, offering an insider's perspective on Melbourne's rich history and diverse communities. This tour reveals the city's lesser-known treasures and local favorites. This is a private tour so you set the pace… squeeze in a few local markets and an attraction or two, or hunt down a few unique pieces in home-grown boutiques. Your Localing host will have you back at your hotel early afternoon (start and finish times can be varied to suit your needs).
Crown Towers Melbourne
Meals: B
Day 3 Lanes & Arcades Walking Tour
Have you ever been to a city and wondered what all the fuss was about? Or wasted time trying to find that cool local café you were told of, then ended up missing everything? Melbourne's arcades and laneways hide many of these answers. Join this indulgent morning walk through Melbourne's beautiful back streets, and become orientated in the life of the city that locals love. Discover local designers and specialty retailers that often are only found in the city. Some of the quirkiest cafes, independent designers, street art, architecture, and historical tales are found in these walkways, there is something for everyone, locals and visitors alike.
Crown Towers Melbourne
Meals: B, L
Day 4 Travel to Perth
Takeoff to Perth and continue on the next stage of your adventure. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your accommodation.
COMO The Treasury is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Perth, occupying the 19th-century State Buildings. Restoration has revealed a grand Victorian-era facade with interiors that feature COMO's trademark contemporary style. There are 48 elegant guest rooms and suites featuring original high ceilings, cornicing and balconies. Facilities include two restaurants, a bar, lounge and library, which together provide a social hub for the city. Holistic therapies are available at COMO Shambhala Urban Escape as well as a gym and indoor pool. COMO The Treasury is served by state-of-the-art facilities and amenities. The faultless and personal service provided by a team of experts and attention to detail will surpass every expectation you may have of boutique hotels—whether traveling for business, leisure or with your family.
Como The Treasury
Meals: B
Day 5 Perth, Kings Park and Fremantle Day Tour
Perth is one of the most isolated cities in the world, but you wouldn't know it to visit. In recent years, Perth has turned into a vibrant and rapidly growing modern city that is abuzz with activity. Start your tour by sightseeing the historic sites within the CBD, such as the Governor's residence and Perth Council House, which are opposite to COMO The Treasury and Barracks Arch. From the CBD, head to the South Perth foreshore to enjoy sweeping views of the city skyline and stroll on the Matagarup walking Bridge over the Swan River at Perth Stadium. Visit the Perth Mint and perhaps witness a gold pour in the original historic melting house. Next, head to Kings Park for more panoramic views, and the chance to explore the world-renowned botanical gardens and native bushland. Kings Park is home to over 300 native plant varieties and 80 bird species, and contains the State War Memorial. Then, take a scenic drive through some of Perth's most exclusive suburbs, including Dalkeith and Claremont. Lunch today is at a restaurant in picture-perfect Leighton Beach overlooking the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean.
After lunch, cross the Swan River and head into Fremantle. It's a magical place with colonial buildings and anecdotes that transport you to another era. There is a laidback beachy vibe, with a flamboyant cultural and artistic heart that beats throughout the port city. Visit the historic Round House, the oldest public building in the State of Western Australia. Opened in January 1831, just 18 months after settlement, it was built to hold any person convicted of a crime in the settlement and was used until 1886.
This private tour is ideal for visitors who have a short stay in Western Australia, touching on so many highlights of the city area.
Como The Treasury
Meals: B, L
Day 6 Perth At Leisure
Perth, the go-ahead capital of Western Australia, gives a feeling of space and light—set on the banks of the sparkling Swan River, a few miles from the magnificent beaches of the Indian Ocean. Fremantle, 11 miles southwest of Perth, is a colorful, busy port at the mouth of the Swan River, easily accessible by bus, train, ferry and taxi. Attractions include the Fremantle Arts Centre, the Maritime Museum, the Round House, the market and the lively town center—affectionately known as the cappuccino strip. There is also the Perth Mint, where visitors can see how coins are made. And located in the city center is the Art Gallery of Western Australia, which houses a collection of Aboriginal art and Australian and international paintings. The Scitech Discovery Centre is a unique hands-on, minds-on science and technology center. Outdoor activities include picnics in Kings Park with its walking trails and a botanical garden that is famous for its spring wildflower displays. The park is a pleasant walk from the center of Perth and is well served by public transport and the Perth Tram. Also visit some of the magnificent white-sand Indian Ocean surfing beaches. The closest is City Beach, but Cottesloe, Floreat, Scarborough, and Sorrento are also popular.
Como The Treasury
Meals: B
Day 7 Travel on the Indian Pacific Train
Your luxury Indian Pacific Train experience includes 5 days/4 nights aboard the train in the newly premiered Aurora Suite. The journey from Perth to Sydney is all-inclusive of meals, fine wines, and beverages, plus off-train experiences.
Your afternoon begins with a welcome gathering in celebration of the start of your journey across the country along the world's longest stretch of straight railway track. Spend a relaxed afternoon getting to know your fellow travelers after you board the Indian Pacific and pull away from Perth, leaving the Indian Ocean behind and cruise toward the Pacific. Tonight, a delectable dinner is served on board, featuring contemporary Australian cuisine with seasonal and regional flavors.
The Aurora Suite features a fixed queen-sized bed, lounge set and en suite bathroom with premium amenities. You'll also have a wardrobe and plenty of room to move throughout the Suite allowing for a luxurious stay. Additional features include: Champagne Bollinger La Grande Année, premium Australian wine selection, personalized in-suite bar, in-room dining available, butler service, luxurious bed linen and pillow menu, a range of exclusive Off Train Experiences, Platinum Club lounge and dining carriage access, and private chauffeur for your arrival and departure of the train.
Indian Pacific
Meals: B, D
Day 8 Travel on the Indian Pacific Train
Awake to see the sunrise unfold across Australian's largest outback town, Kalgoorlie. This morning, delve into this mining town's fascinating past and present, with a visit to the region's gold-rush eras, now modern-day, Super Pit mine. Decide how you want to explore Kalgoorlie on your choice of off-train experiences, including morning refreshments.
Reboard the train mid-morning for brunch, with the remainder of the day on board at your leisure. Sit back and enjoy the hospitality as you take in spectacular views of the seemingly endless expanse of the Nullabor Plain. You'll cross borders and time zones, entering South Australia before dinner. Late evening, the train will pull into the almost-ghost-town of Cook for a nightcap, late-night bonfire and stargazing experience.
Indian Pacific
Meals: B, L, D
Day 9 Travel on the Indian Pacific Train
Spend the morning traveling through the pastoral lands and communities of remote South Australia as the Indian Pacific cruises past the Flinders Ranges, Spencer Gulf and the Adelaide Plains. Breakfast and lunch are both served on board. Mid-afternoon, the train pulls into Two Wells, where you disembark and transfer in comfortable coaches for a short ride to the world-renowned wine-producing region of the Barossa Valley. You'll spend the evening at Seppetsfield Winery, delighting in a signature dining experience in the vintage cellar.
A traditional 'Firing of the Barrel' display is part of the evening, as well as food and wine pairing, curated by the executive chef, highlighting regional produce and traditional methods that reflect the story of the Barossa. After dinner, return to the Indian Pacific to continue the rail journey through the night.
Indian Pacific
Meals: B, L, D
Day 10 Travel on the Indian Pacific Train
Crossing another border during the night, wake up in Broken Hill New South Wales. Enjoy a hearty breakfast, ready for the day's activities in the Silver City. You will have the choice of four off-train experiences, including guided history, art and cultural experiences that showcase the highlights of Australia's first heritage-listed city.
Returning to the train for lunch, admire the scenery as the Indian Pacific travels through regional New South Wales. Tonight, dinner is served on board as you make the most of your final night exploring Australia by train.
Indian Pacific
Meals: B, L, D
Day 11 Blue Mountains and Sydney
The Blue Mountains is known for its soaring sandstone ridges wrapped in native flora. This World-Heritage-listed area marks your final stop before arriving in Sydney. Say goodbye to the Indian Pacific after breakfast, to travel deep into the mountains for this afternoons' off-train experiences. Scenic World includes four phenomenal mountain experiences, from the Scenic Skyway, which takes you over ancient ravines with 360-degree vistas, to the Scenic Cableway that glides over the forest to the valley floor, and the Scenic Railway, the steepest passenger railway in the world. Alternatively, stretch your legs on a guided walk with spectacular views from numerous lookouts along the trail. All experiences end at Echo Point lookout, perched on the edge of the escarpment in Katoomba, where a light lunch is served.
Complete your journey on a chartered New South Wales rail service (fully hosted by the crew) into Sydney Central Station. Alternatively, if you prefer to arrive in Sydney earlier, stay on board the Indian Pacific to travel directly to Sydney Central Station.
Upon arrival, you'll be transferred by private vehicle to your accommodation.
The award-winning Park Hyatt Sydney is positioned among a brilliant blend of historic tradition, natural beauty and the vibrant energy of the city of Sydney. Step outside the Park Hyatt and into the historic Rocks district, which follows the curve of the harbor to the instantly recognizable Opera House. The Rocks was the original settlement area and is a center for entertainment and shopping. There are just 155 guest rooms—most with balconies. For a memorable experience, order room service and watch the sun rise or set from the comfort of your private balcony as you enjoy a meal prepared by top chefs. The hotel mixes the experience of the past with the latest style and conveniences. Your room has every conceivable luxury, including a lavish bathroom with a king-sized tub. Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in guest rooms and social spaces on unlimited devices (charges apply for premium Wi-Fi services).
The King Opera View Room spans 40-45 square meters (approximately 450 square feet), with one king bed and a private balcony that showcases views of the Sydney Opera House and harbor. Amenities include TV, digital music system, individually-controlled air and heating, in-room safe, coffee maker and mini bar.
Park Hyatt Sydney
Meals: B, L
Day 12 Sydney Tour and Lunch Cruise
Sydney In Style Tour
This morning, depart from your hotel to discover the fabulous city of Sydney. You will travel through the business district and shopping areas, see Darling Harbour and the vibrant China Town, and drive along Oxford Street with its trendy terrace houses and boutique fashion shops. See Centennial Park, an urban parkland in Eastern Sydney. Reaching the coastline, see Bronte and Tamarama, then go on to explore the famous Bondi Beach. Spend 30 minutes walking the promenade or enjoying a coffee overlooking the beach. From here, continue along the coastal drive past Macquarie Lighthouse to the Southern Headland of Sydney Harbour. Visit Watsons Bay before following the harbor foreshore towards Sydney City. You pass some of Australia's most exclusive waterfront suburbs where harbor mansions may be seen. Drive through Vaucluse, Double Bay before reaching the colorful Kings Cross. Head through Woolloomooloo and see the famous Harry's Cafe De Wheels. Visit Sydney's Botanical Gardens and enjoy some spectacular Harbour Bridge and Opera House views. Return to Sydney's CBD via Saint Mary's Cathedral, historic convict buildings, State Parliament House and the historical quarter of the 'Rocks.' Visit Sydney's Observatory Hill for amazing views over Sydney Harbour to the Blue Mountains.
Sydney Secrets Lunch Cruise
Sydney Harbour Boat Tours provides premium, small-group boat experiences, going where no other boat operators go, exploring the world's largest natural harbor on high-powered luxury sports cruisers. This unique and personalized itinerary blends classic sightseeing (cruising past Sydney's famous city landmarks) with an intimate look at the ‘living & working' harbor. Visit Sydney's pristine national park waterways with secluded bays and beaches, and keep a lookout for wildlife such as penguins, seals, dolphins and whales. This half-day cruise guarantees an intimate and unforgettable afternoon exploring the unseen corners of Sydney Harbour aboard a luxury sports cruiser, with lunch at the Empire Lounge at the Sydney Seaplanes Terminal in Rose Bay. The vessel today is perfect for bay-hopping, close-up sightseeing, beach exploring, lunching and swimming. A state-of-the-art vessel that brings a touch of the Italian Riviera to Sydney, with 600 horsepower twin outboards, a retractable sunroof, sun lounge and the ability to land right on the beach.
Park Hyatt Sydney
Meals: B, L
Day 13 Sydney At Leisure
It is no surprise that when the British first arrived in Sydney they named the area Botany Bay. Even today, with a population of over 4 million people and a reputation for fun rather than flora, one is still surrounded by bush land in this bustling city. Native Waratah wind their way through the historic Rocks area, palm trees frame long stretches of pristine beach, and Eucalyptus embrace the endless and beckoning bays of Sydney Harbour.
It is Sydney's man-made wonders, however, that draw most visitors. The Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge are the most photographed icons on the continent. Choose a Seaplane Safari experience and enjoy a bird's eye view of the Opera House's signature sails. See the Harbour Bridge up close and personal by climbing the metal monolith to enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the glittering vista below with BridgeClimb as you climb to the top. Whether it is an early morning visit to the largest fish market in the southern hemisphere, or your very first surfing lesson on Bondi Beach, in this vibrant metropolis you will find no lack of energetic escapes and dynamic distractions.
There are many ways to enjoy the harbor: on a small luxury motor cruiser or sailing yacht, or ferries that take you to Taronga Park Zoo or Manly and the harbor suburbs. Take the Darling Harbour Rocket that connects Circular Quay to Darling Harbour where there are many restaurants and attractions such as The Sydney Aquarium, Wildlife World, The IMAX Theater and the Naval Museum. For a more leisurely afternoon, take a walk through the Royal Botanical Gardens and Hyde Park, or learn about Australia's National Gemstone, the Opal, at Altmann; Cherny or The National Opal Collection, right in the heart of the city on Pitt Street.
Park Hyatt Sydney
Meals: B
Day 14 Depart Sydney
Ahead of your flight, you will be transferred from your accommodation to Sydney International Airport.
Meals: B
The Blue Mountains region is rich in history. Once considered an impassable barrier, the Blue Mountains is now a major gateway to Western New South Wales.
The town of Kalgoorlie, 375 mi/600 km east of Perth in Western Australia, is still considered the Queen of the Golden Mile, a gold vein discovered in 1893 that contains one of the richest lodes ever found.
Kalgoorlie's 20,000 residents continue to make their living from mining. You can descend 200 ft/60 m underground to tour the drifts of the old Hannan's North Tourist Mine. You can also see gold ingots being poured, view the nuggets at the Museum of the Goldfields and go pub hopping in the classic Outback pubs.
Neighboring Coolgardie (25 mi/40 km west) is nearly a ghost town—but it still has the Goldfields Exhibition housed in a handsome old building dating from the boom days. We found a two-day visit to these cities very worthwhile. The area can be reached from Perth by air, train or car (it's a seven-hour drive).
Sydney
Soak up Sydney’s gorgeous harbour, seductive outdoor lifestyle and great natural beauty. Kayak under the Sydney Harbour Bridge or wave at the Opera House as you ride a ferry across the harbour to Manly. Learn to surf at Bondi Beach or swim in the calm waters of Coogee. Lose yourself in the cobblestone cul-de-sacs of The Rocks or in the markets, boutiques, cafes and pubs of Paddington. As well as a world-famous harbour and more than 70 sparkling beaches, Sydney offers fabulous food, festivals and 24-7 fun.
Five Sydney Experiences Not to Miss:
1. Explore the historic Rocks
Discover Sydney’s colorful convict history in the harbourside quarter where it all began. Just five minutes from Circular Quay, you can hear stories of hangings and hauntings on a ghost tour, wander the weekend markets or climb the span of the Harbour Bridge. In amongst the maze of sandstone lanes and courtyards, you’ll find historic workman’s cottages and elegant terraces, art galleries, hotels with harbour views and Sydney’s oldest pubs. See people spill out of them onto a party on the cobblestone streets when The Rocks celebrates Australia Day on January 26th, Anzac Day on April 25th and New Years Eve.
2. Hit the world-famous harbour
Sail past the Opera House on a chartered yacht or paddle from Rose Bay in a kayak. Take a scenic cruise from Circular Quay or Darling Harbour, past waterfront mansions, national parks and Shark, Clark, Rodd and Goat islands. Tour historic Fort Denison or learn about the life of Sydney’s first inhabitants, the Gadigal people, on an Aboriginal cultural cruise. Watch the harbour glitter from the green parklands of the Royal Botanic Gardens, which curves around its edge. Or take in the view from a waterfront restaurant in Mosman, on the northern side of the bridge, or Watsons Bay at South Head. Walk from Rose Bay to Vaucluse or Cremorne Point to Mosman Bay, on just some of the 16 spectacular routes hugging the harbour foreshore.
3. Visit Manly on the ferry
Travel across Sydney Harbour on a ferry to Manly, which sits between beaches of ocean surf and tranquil inner harbour. Wander through native bushland on the scenic Manly to Spit Bridge walk, learn to scuba-dive at Cabbage Tree Bay or ride a bike to Fairy Bower. Picnic at Shelly Beach on the ocean and sail or kayak from Manly Wharf round the harbour. Hire a scooter and do a round trip of northern beaches such as Narrabeen and Palm Beach. Explore the shops, bars and cafes along the bustling pine tree-lined Corso and dine at world-class restaurants with water views.
4. Enjoy café culture and top shopping in Paddington
Meander through the Saturday markets, browse fashion boutiques on bustling Oxford Street or discover the antique shops and art galleries in upmarket Woollahra. Visit the 1840s Victoria Barracks Army base, open to the public once a week, and see restored Victorian terraces on wide, leafy streets. Ride or roller-blade in huge Centennial Park, then stop for coffee and lunch on Oxford St or in the mini-village of Five Ways. Catch a movie at an art-house cinema or leaf through a novel at midnight in one of the huge bookstores. Crawl between the lively, historic pubs. They hum even more after a game at the nearby stadium or a race day, when girls and guys arrive in their crumpled trackside finery.
5. Walk from Bondi to Coogee
Take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean as you walk the winding, sea-sculpted sandstone cliffs between Bondi and Coogee. Swim in the famous Bondi Icebergs rock pool or just watch the swimmers with a sunset cocktail from the restaurant above. See wild waves in Tamarama, nicknamed Glamarama for the beautiful people who lie on its golden sand. From mid-October to November, the stretch from here to Bondi is transformed into an outdoor gallery for the Sculptures by the Sea exhibition. You can surf, picnic on the grass or stop for a coffee at family-friendly Bronte. Or swim, snorkel or scuba dive in Clovelly and tranquil Gordon’s Bay. See the graves of poets Henry Lawson, Dorothea Mackellar and aviator Lawrence Hargrave in Waverley Cemetery, on the edge of the cliffs. Finish your tour in the scenic, backpacker haven of Coogee.
Adelaide
This elegant city is known for its colonial stone architecture, expansive parklands, lively festivals and incredible sense of space. Explore the museums and libraries of North Terrace, dine on dedicated 'eat streets' or picnic in gardens that sprawl over almost half the city. Go bike riding in Botanic Park or row past rose gardens in Rymill Park. Swim with dolphins or learn to sail in Glenelg or fish from the jetty in Henley. Just beyond the city centre you'll find the picturesque Adelaide Hills and the world-class wineries of the Barossa Valley.
Five ways to immerse yourself in Adelaide:
1. Hit the eat streets
Sample everything from Asian fusion to Argentine cuisine in the exotic, bustling foodhalls of Chinatown. Embrace the alfresco ambience of Rundle Street in Adelaide's East End or live it up in one of the city's many elegant wine bars and fashionable restaurants. Enjoy a beach sunset with your meal in the coastal suburbs of Glenelg and Henley Beach or wind down with a wine at the National Wine Centre. If you're a fresh food addict, Adelaide Central Markets offer premium produce from growers across the state.
2. Feel green and serene in Adelaide's parks
Hire paddleboats and bikes in Elder Park or row past formal rose gardens in Rymill Park. Picnic in the local's beloved Botanic Park or cycle from the hills to the coast in River Torrens Linear Park. For serious tranquility, head to the classic Japanese oasis of Adelaide-Himjei Garden. Adelaide's 29 parks take up almost half of the city, and come with walking trails, quiet spaces and sporting fields for everything from football to archery.
3. Head for the coast
Swim with dolphins or learn to sail in Glenelg, which bustles with sidewalk cafes, alfresco dining and summer entertainment. In the beach suburb of Henley, you can fish from the jetty or go on a culinary world tour at the ethnic food stores and eateries. Explore the museums, markets and historic harbour of Port Adelaide, the city's maritime heart. Or see heritage buildings and colourful summer sideshows in family-friendly Semaphore. Further along the spectacular Le Fevre Peninsula, you can swim on protected beaches and walk one of the state's few heritage-listed jetties at Largs Bay.
4. Soak up Aboriginal and European heritage
Do a cultural tour of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens with traditional custodians the Kaurna people. You'll learn how native plants have been used for sustenance, shelter, ceremonies and medicines for thousands of years. Browse the world's largest collection of Aboriginal antiquities at the Aboriginal Cultures Gallery at the South Australian Museum and visit Tandanya, the National Aboriginal Cultural Institute. Adelaide also has a proud European heritage for you to explore -in the museums and libraries of North Terrace, in Adelaide Town Hall and in Port Adelaide, the state's first declared heritage area.
5. Escape to the hills
Drive to the Adelaide Hills, where the picturesque farmlands and charming villages have inspired many generations of artists. Stay in Bavarian-inspired chalets and browse the bakeries, craft shops and galleries of Hahndorf, Australia's oldest surviving German village. Visit The Cedars, once the gracious old home and studio of famous landscape artists Sir Hans Heysen. Then hit the markets of Lobethal, a fairytale town which celebrates Christmas with metres and metres of colourful lights.
Melbourne
Melbourne is a maze of hidden laneways, opulent bars, exclusive restaurants and off-the-beaten-track boutiques. Here you can soak up culture, hit the sporting grounds, taste the dynamic food and wine scene, dance til dawn or wander the parks and leafy boulevards. Visit Federation Square, the city's landmark cultural space, and enjoy a sunset beer on the St Kilda promenade. Shop till you drop on funky Brunswick Street or upmarket Chapel Street. Wander Southbank's cafes, bistros and bars and get a world tour of cuisines in Carlton, Richmond and Fitzroy. Take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens and cheer with a capacity crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Five Must-Have Melbourne Experiences:
1. Shop till you drop
Bag a bargain at the Rose Street Artist's Market and browse the funky boutiques on Brunswick Street. Buy designer labels such as Akira Isogawa and Zimmerman on Chapel Street in Prahran or in the historic Melbourne General Post Office, which covers an entire city block. For everything from fashion to furnishings at fantastic value, visit Bridge Road in Richmond. Melbourne is a shopper's haven, offering eclectic boutiques, high-end fashion, funky homeware stores and European style piazzas in the city's arcades and hidden laneways.
2. Bar hop and dance till dawn
Sip a cocktail in a converted sea container in Chinatown, enjoy a sunset beer in a St Kilda pub or listen to cabaret in lush retro surroundings in jazz bars in the city. Linger over exquisite tapas and exotic wine in a Little Collins Street bar and mingle in a pink parlour with fake grass in Bourke Street. You can party from dusk in the bars of Brunswick Street. Or dance till dawn in bars in the city's lantern-lit laneways, secret apart from the spill of coloured light under heavy brass doors.
3. Get into the gourmet goodness
Let the aroma of good coffee waft over you in Melbourne's gothic European laneways. The city is famous for its coffee and old-world café culture but there's so much more to explore. Once you've downed a 'short black' or taken an afternoon aperitif, try tea in a nineteenth-century hotel or salivate over your silver spoon in acclaimed restaurants like Nobu, Botanical and Becco. Pick up fresh fruits, vegetables and seafood at the Queen Victoria Market on a Saturday, known for its bustling crowds and buskers. Try out the restaurants, cafes, bistros and bars in Southbank or Federation Square. Make your way around Melbourne's multicultural cosmos of cuisines: Carlton for Italian classics, Richmond for budget-friendly Vietnamese and Fitzroy for Spanish tapas.
4. Fill up on culture
See a performance by the Australian Ballet, which is based here in Australia's cultural capital. Or enjoy a dazzling musical at the Princess Theatre. Browse the Southern Hemisphere's best collection of international art at the National Gallery of Victoria. Or visit the Australian Centre for the Moving Image in Federation Square, a landmark cultural 'space' for Melbournians. Challenge yourself with the creative collections in the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art in Southbank. To learn more about Melbourne's Aboriginal cultural heritage, see contemporary and dreamtime art or take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens.
5. Go sports mad
Cheer for an Australian Rules Football game with a capacity crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground over winter. Go cricket mad in summer, when the city hosts the Ashes and one day internationals. Or join the huge crowds watching the Australian Tennis Open at Melbourne Park. Rev heads head to Melbourne in March for the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix in Albert Park. And whether you are a racing fan or just a casual punter, you won't want to miss the Melbourne Cup - the world's richest horse race on the first Tuesday in November.
Vacation Details
* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
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