Australia Travel Guide

Australia is a fascinating destination and a paradise for surfing and scuba diving enthusiasts. Adventurers will love the desert landscapes and the iconic Australian Outback’s Indigenous Australian culture. Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, tropical rainforests, koalas, and kangaroos are just a few reasons to travel across the globe to this captivating country.

Top cities to visit

  • Sydney

    Australia’s most populous city is a beach destination, urban centre, cultural hub, and gateway to wild nature. Explore the Sydney Opera House, the historic The Rocks district, the stunning Bondi and Manly Beaches, the tourist hub of Circular Quay, the country’s beautiful national parks and the Blue Mountains.

  • Melbourne

    Melbourne is one of the world’s most livable cities, and it is easy to see why. The city is full of trendy cafés, bars, and excellent restaurants. Explore its unmatched arts scene, laneways adorned with street art, beaches, parks, and Victorian architecture.

  • Brisbane

    Sunny and laid-back, Brisbane celebrates outdoor living with riverside walks, café terraces, and visits to nearby national parks and islands. Its cultural district, abundant wildlife, and prime location near the Gold Coast and the Great Barrier Reef make it a must-visit destination.

  • Perth

    Perth offers a rare balance between spectacular nature and vibrant city life. White-sand beaches, lush parks, lively bars, creative dining, street art, and historic districts add to its charm. Nearby, vineyards, wild islands, and iconic wildlife remind visitors that adventure begins at the city’s doorstep.

  • Cairns

    Cairns is the gateway to Queensland’s tropical wonders. Its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, makes it a must-visit destination. In the city, bustling markets, café terraces, and a relaxed atmosphere invite visitors to savour the moment.

  • Sydney

    Australia’s most populous city is a beach destination, urban centre, cultural hub, and gateway to wild nature. Explore the Sydney Opera House, the historic The Rocks district, the stunning Bondi and Manly Beaches, the tourist hub of Circular Quay, the country’s beautiful national parks and the Blue Mountains.

  • Melbourne

    Melbourne is one of the world’s most livable cities, and it is easy to see why. The city is full of trendy cafés, bars, and excellent restaurants. Explore its unmatched arts scene, laneways adorned with street art, beaches, parks, and Victorian architecture.

  • Brisbane

    Sunny and laid-back, Brisbane celebrates outdoor living with riverside walks, café terraces, and visits to nearby national parks and islands. Its cultural district, abundant wildlife, and prime location near the Gold Coast and the Great Barrier Reef make it a must-visit destination.

  • Perth

    Perth offers a rare balance between spectacular nature and vibrant city life. White-sand beaches, lush parks, lively bars, creative dining, street art, and historic districts add to its charm. Nearby, vineyards, wild islands, and iconic wildlife remind visitors that adventure begins at the city’s doorstep.

  • Cairns

    Cairns is the gateway to Queensland’s tropical wonders. Its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, makes it a must-visit destination. In the city, bustling markets, café terraces, and a relaxed atmosphere invite visitors to savour the moment.

Useful information

Official language(s)

Australia’s official language is English—specifically Australian English, known for its distinctive accent and unique local expressions. Chances are locals will greet you with a friendly “G’day mate!”

Flight duration

Direct flight: No direct flights from Quebec
Connecting flight: 23 to 35 hours (depending on connection times)

Time zone difference

Australia time zone: UTC +10
14h ahead of Quebec (EST)
15h ahead of Quebec (EDT)

*Like Canada, Australia spans multiple time zones. The time difference varies depending on the region.

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across the country, including in restaurants, hotels, shops, and public transportation. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small businesses, markets, tips, or activities in remote areas.

Tips

In Australia, tipping is neither mandatory nor expected, regardless of the service or establishment. It is generally considered a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service. In more upscale restaurants, leaving around 10% of the bill is appreciated but not required.

Safety

Australia is a safe destination where basic safety precautions are usually sufficient. In nature, it is important to follow local guidelines and be mindful of wildlife, weather, and terrain. Some beaches may have strong currents or marine wildlife to watch for, such as sharks, crocodiles, or jellyfish, so always follow lifeguards’ advice. We also recommend that you share your itinerary before venturing into the Outback because this remote and arid region has limited cell coverage and services.

Before any foreign trip, visit the Government of Canada’s Australia Travel Advice page to find out about the current situation in the country.

Top things to do and see

  • Admire the sunset over Ayers Rock (Uluru)

  • Go scuba diving or snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef

  • Drive along the Great Ocean Road to discover Australia’s stunning coastline

  • Observe kangaroos and koalas in their natural habitat

  • Immerse yourself in the Daintree Rainforest

Hidden gems to discover

  • The Whitsundays Islands

    The Whitsunday Islands are made up of 74 paradise islands accessible from Airlie Beach. Visitors will find dream beaches such as Whitehaven Beach, colourful reefs perfect for snorkeling, and scenic walking trails. These islands reveal pristine nature and spectacular tropical landscapes.

  • Maria Island

    Maria Island is a protected natural sanctuary, accessible by ferry from Triabunna. Car-free, it offers hiking, cycling, swimming, and snorkeling, along with diverse wildlife, including kangaroos, wombats, and Tasmanian devils. Explore historic ruins and enjoy breathtaking coastal landscapes.

  • Purnululu National Park

    Purnululu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its unique Bungle Bungle sandstone domes—orange- and grey-striped rock formations. Best explored during the dry season, the park offers 4×4 trails, hiking through spectacular gorges, and an authentic Outback Australia adventure. A must-visit for nature and landscape lovers.

  • The Kimberley Region

    The Kimberley region is one of Australia’s most pristine destinations. Explore red cliffs, gorges, waterfalls, and secluded beaches. Enjoy hiking, 4×4 adventures, cruises, kayaking, or scenic flights. Experience the Outback, Indigenous Australian culture, and its unique tropical biodiversity.

  • The Whitsundays Islands

    The Whitsunday Islands are made up of 74 paradise islands accessible from Airlie Beach. Visitors will find dream beaches such as Whitehaven Beach, colourful reefs perfect for snorkeling, and scenic walking trails. These islands reveal pristine nature and spectacular tropical landscapes.

  • Maria Island

    Maria Island is a protected natural sanctuary, accessible by ferry from Triabunna. Car-free, it offers hiking, cycling, swimming, and snorkeling, along with diverse wildlife, including kangaroos, wombats, and Tasmanian devils. Explore historic ruins and enjoy breathtaking coastal landscapes.

  • Purnululu National Park

    Purnululu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its unique Bungle Bungle sandstone domes—orange- and grey-striped rock formations. Best explored during the dry season, the park offers 4×4 trails, hiking through spectacular gorges, and an authentic Outback Australia adventure. A must-visit for nature and landscape lovers.

  • The Kimberley Region

    The Kimberley region is one of Australia’s most pristine destinations. Explore red cliffs, gorges, waterfalls, and secluded beaches. Enjoy hiking, 4×4 adventures, cruises, kayaking, or scenic flights. Experience the Outback, Indigenous Australian culture, and its unique tropical biodiversity.

Highlights

  • Spectacular landscapes: coral reefs, deserts, tropical rainforests, mountains, and beaches.
  • Australians’ friendliness and humour.
  • Unique wildlife and flora found nowhere else in the world.
  • Fascinating ancient Indigenous Australian culture.

Keep in mind

  • Flights are very long (over 24 hours) with a significant time difference.
  • Distances between major cities and natural attractions are vast.
  • The cost of living is relatively high.
Top pick

“I had the chance to visit Australia for over a year, discovering its incredible landscapes. From Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef and the desert around Alice Springs, this vast country offers an astonishing variety of scenery. My favourite? The Whitsunday Islands, bordering one of the world’s largest coral reefs, featuring truly breathtaking natural beaches.”

Patricia BombardierTravel Counsellor, Brossard Travel Centre

Local food and gastronomy

  • Meat pie

    A beloved Australian treat, the meat pie can be enjoyed everywhere—from stadiums to local bakeries. This small, golden, and flaky pastry is filled with minced or diced meat simmered in a rich gravy. Best eaten hot on the go, often with a touch of tomato sauce (ketchup).

  • Vegemite

    Vegemite is a dark brown, savory yeast-extract spread. When spread thinly on toast, it delivers an intense umami flavour. Loved by some and an acquired taste for others, it is a proud symbol of Australian culture.

  • Tim Tam biscuits

    Impossible to resist, Tim Tams are Australia’s iconic cookies. They consist of two crunchy biscuits sandwiched with a creamy filling and coated in chocolate. Available in many flavours, they are perfect with tea or a good coffee.

  • Lamington

    The lamington is a classic Australian dessert made of sponge cake cubes coated in a thin layer of chocolate icing and desiccated coconut. The chocolate slightly soaks into the cake, giving it a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that contrasts perfectly with the coconut. A simple yet indulgent Australian favourite.

  • Barramundi

    Barramundi is a popular white fish with firm yet delicate flesh that flakes perfectly. Its subtle flavour works well grilled or pan-fried. Served with seasonal vegetables, it showcases Australian produce’s freshness and richness.

  • Meat pie

    A beloved Australian treat, the meat pie can be enjoyed everywhere—from stadiums to local bakeries. This small, golden, and flaky pastry is filled with minced or diced meat simmered in a rich gravy. Best eaten hot on the go, often with a touch of tomato sauce (ketchup).

  • Vegemite

    Vegemite is a dark brown, savory yeast-extract spread. When spread thinly on toast, it delivers an intense umami flavour. Loved by some and an acquired taste for others, it is a proud symbol of Australian culture.

  • Tim Tam biscuits

    Impossible to resist, Tim Tams are Australia’s iconic cookies. They consist of two crunchy biscuits sandwiched with a creamy filling and coated in chocolate. Available in many flavours, they are perfect with tea or a good coffee.

  • Lamington

    The lamington is a classic Australian dessert made of sponge cake cubes coated in a thin layer of chocolate icing and desiccated coconut. The chocolate slightly soaks into the cake, giving it a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that contrasts perfectly with the coconut. A simple yet indulgent Australian favourite.

  • Barramundi

    Barramundi is a popular white fish with firm yet delicate flesh that flakes perfectly. Its subtle flavour works well grilled or pan-fried. Served with seasonal vegetables, it showcases Australian produce’s freshness and richness.

Tim Tam® Cookie Frozen Swirl

Experience the charm of Australia with this frozen treat featuring the famous Tim Tam® cookies, an Australian favorite since 1964. This swirl pairs the creaminess of homemade vanilla ice cream with the irresistible crunch of dark chocolate. A sweet, decadent, and crunchy escape in every spoonful! (Video in French only)

Good to know

  • We recommend that you book domestic flights and tours to the Great Barrier Reef early because availability is limited.
  • To enjoy the sea safely, always read and follow the information signs on beaches because sharks, crocodiles, and jellyfish can sometimes be present.
  • Being in the Southern Hemisphere, Australia’s seasons are opposite to those in North America.
  • Australia is very close to New Zealand and Indonesia, making it perfect for a cruise to these neighbouring countries.
  • In Australia, people drive on the left, and the steering wheel is on the right.

What to bring back?

  • A boomerang

  • A didgeridoo

  • A bush hat, a traditional Australian hat

  • A bottle of Bundaberg Rum, Australia’s iconic rum

  • A koala plush toy

Frequently asked questions

Overall, the best times to visit Australia are during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May).

Due to the country’s vast size, the ideal period varies by region. It is best to visit southern cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide in spring or autumn for mild temperatures. Northern areas, including Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Whitsunday Islands, are ideal from May to October during the dry season. To explore the Outback and the famous Uluru, April to September offers the most comfortable desert temperatures. It’s best to visit the West Coast, around Perth, and Tasmania from October to April, with warm, sunny weather.

Due to Australia’s vast size, flying remains the most efficient way to cover long distances between major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth. Car rental is very popular for more freedom to explore and enjoy the country’s spectacular landscapes. Note that driving is on the left, and vehicles have the steering wheel on the right. Finally, buses provide an economical and reliable option for travelling between multiple cities.

2 to 3 weeks.

This is the ideal amount of time to explore multiple cities, embark on road adventures, enjoy the beaches, and discover different regions at a relaxed pace.

  • Vivid Sydney, in Sydney, runs for over three weeks from May to June. One of Australia’s most spectacular festivals, it transforms the city into a huge display of lights, art, and music. Light projections and artistic installations illuminate Sydney’s harbour precinct, including landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
  • Adelaide Fringe, in Adelaide, lasts about four weeks from February to March. It is Australia’s largest arts festival, featuring thousands of shows including theatre, comedy, music, cabaret, and street performances that energize the whole city.
  • Floriade, in Canberra, runs for about four weeks from late September to late October. This iconic flower festival celebrates spring with millions of colourful blooms, spectacular floral displays, concerts, and many park-based activities.

Getting ready for your trip

These destinations could easily become your next favourites

The world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. After exploring the beauty of Australia, let yourself be captivated by new places that promise unforgettable experiences.