Cairns is the perfect city for merry revelers, passionate divers and adrenaline junkies, offering booming nightlife and heart-pounding adventure amid a vibrant, tropical setting.  This friendly Queensland city of 130,000 is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree National Park, Cape Tribulation, Cooktown and the rest of Cape York Peninsula. Embark on an eco-adventure or take a dip in a lagoon pool before hitting the town to unwind and shake what you’ve got Down Under.  

Perched on the banks of the wide Swan River, between the Indian Ocean and the sands of the Nullarbour Desert, Perth is one of the world's most isolated cities, yet still boasts an active beach scene and smokin’ nightlife. Family-friendly Cottesloe is brimming with swimmers, surfers and snorkelers. Head north to Scarbourough for a spirited beachside club scene. Coo at cute marsupials on ferry-accessible Rottnest Island, and don’t miss the views from King's Park and Botanic Gardens.

Brisbane is Queensland’s thriving capital city offering the best of many worlds. Indulge in Brisbane’s flourishing dining scene with a smorgasbord of award-winning restaurants to choose from. Make it a rooftop rendezvous and hop between the city’s many vibrant sky-high bars, or settle in at charming hidden laneway gems. Embrace Brisbane’s iconic blue skies and balmy nights – abseil cliffs, hike to hidden waterfalls, wander exclusive art exhibitions, island-hop or picnic by boat. Or simply relax poolside at one of Brisbane’s luxury hotels. Stay a little longer and explore the Scenic Rim’s World Heritage rainforests or the stunning Moreton Bay filled with pristine islands and wildlife just an hour from the city. Start planning your Brisbane getaway now.

Known for its extensive beaches, waterways, and excellent swimming and surfing spots, Port Macquarie provides an appealing stopover for those making their way between Sydney and Brisbane. Add in a great food and wine scene, and it’s worth staying a little longer.

City slickers, culture vultures and beach bums alike fall in love with Sydney. Hang ten at famed Bondi Beach or stroll the calmer sands of Coogee.  Cash burning a hole in your pocket? You’ll find great shopping in the Rocks district and along George and Pitt Streets. Climb to the top of the Harbour Bridge or take a skywalk on Sydney Tower for a 360-degree view of the city. But whatever you do, don’t leave town without cuddling the koalas in the Taronga Park Zoo—they’re ridiculously adorable.

Lovely, laid-back Melbourne has something for everyone: family fare, local and international art, haute boutiques, multicultural dining, Australian and Aboriginal history, spectator sports, and pulsing, swanky nightlife. Cruise on the free City Circle Tram loop to check out unique attractions like the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Healesville Sanctuary, which buzzes with local animal species.