12 days

Coastal Cities and Wild Wonders: A 12-Day Australian Escape

Start Location Sydney
End Location Melbourne
Code
12CCW
Starting From
$2,740 USD
Places Visited

Melbourne, Port Douglas, Sydney

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Tour Overview

Embark on a 12-day adventure through Australia, where stunning cities and natural wonders await. Discover the vibrant energy of Sydney, explore the majestic Blue Mountains, and dive into the Great Barrier Reef’s crystal-clear waters. Immerse yourself in lush rainforests, get up close with Australia’s unique wildlife, and witness breathtaking landscapes along the Great Ocean Road. This unforgettable journey combines adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences – the perfect escape for any traveler.

Start Location Sydney
End Location Melbourne

Top Highlights

  • Sydney’s Iconic Landmarks – Explore the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach.
  • Blue Mountains Adventure
  • Great Barrier Reef
  • Cape Tribulation & Daintree Rainforest
  • Wildlife Encounters – Meet koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, and more at Sydney Zoo and in the wild.
  • Great Ocean Road
  • Cairns & Port Douglas
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Make this trip matter and reduce your carbon print.

As a responsible tour operator, we believe in creating experiences that not only enrich your life but also contribute to the well-being of our planet and its communities. That’s why we will be planting one tree for every passenger that travels with us. 

A person standing in a serene forest surrounded by tall trees

An unforgettable journey awaits you

Embark on a travel experience that will stay with you forever. We offer a blend of culture, adventure, and tranquility, ensuring every moment is filled with wonder. Whether you’re seeking thrill or relaxation, we create journeys that are truly unforgettable.

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

Customizable Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Sydney

    Upon arrival in Sydney, you will be transferred from the airport to your hotel in Darling Harbour. Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the vibrant area and the stunning waterfront. Darling Harbour is home to top attractions such as the SeaLife Aquarium and the National Maritime Museum, offering plenty of opportunities to begin soaking in the city’s charm. After checking into Furama Sydney Darling Harbour, relax and enjoy your first evening in Sydney.

    Overnight: Sydney


  • Day 2: Sydney City & Bondi Beach Tour

    Start your day with a Big Bus Sydney Tour, taking in the city's iconic landmarks. Visit the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and explore the bustling Darling Harbour area. Continue on the Bondi Beach tour to discover the famous beach, Centennial Park, and cosmopolitan shopping and dining areas. The hop-on hop-off format allows you to explore at your own pace and enjoy the vibrant city at leisure.

    Overnight: Sydney


  • Day 3: Blue Mountains Adventure

    Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains, visiting the spectacular Three Sisters rock formation at Echo Point and learning about local Aboriginal legends. Ride the Scenic Railway at Scenic World, the world’s steepest passenger railway, and take in stunning views from the Skyway and gondola. You'll also explore the peaceful Katoomba Cascades Waterfalls and wander through the charming village of Leura. End the day with a scenic ferry ride back to Sydney, enjoying views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

    Overnight: Sydney


  • Day 4: Free Day in Sydney

    Spend the day exploring Sydney at your own pace. You can visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, take a ferry to Manly Beach, or enjoy a day of shopping at Pitt Street Mall or Queen Victoria Building. Sydney has a wealth of attractions to suit all interests, and today is yours to discover more of what this vibrant city has to offer.

    Overnight: Sydney


  • Day 5: Sydney to Cairns

    After breakfast, check out of your Sydney hotel and take a shuttle transfer to the airport for your flight to Cairns. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your resort in Port Douglas. Enjoy your first evening in this tropical paradise by the lagoon at your hotel Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas. Relax and unwind by the pool or take a stroll around the charming town of Port Douglas.

    Overnight: Port Douglas


  • Day 6: Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest Tour

    Today, embark on an exciting Cape Tribulation, Daintree & Mossman Tour. Walk through the ancient Daintree Rainforest and visit Mossman Gorge, where you’ll learn about the biodiversity of the region from your guide. Enjoy a peaceful boat cruise along the Daintree River to spot saltwater crocodiles and other wildlife. At Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll have time to relax on the tropical beach and savor a delicious lunch in the heart of the rainforest.

    Overnight: Port Douglas


  • Day 7: Outer Barrier Reef Cruise

    Today you will embark on a Quicksilver Outer Barrier Reef Cruise. Travel to Agincourt Reef, where you can snorkel, dive, or simply relax and enjoy the beauty of one of the most pristine ecosystems on Earth. The clear waters offer excellent visibility, and you'll have the opportunity to encounter vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

    Overnight: Port Douglas


  • Day 8: Leisure Day in Port Douglas

    Enjoy a relaxing day at leisure in Port Douglas. Take a dip in one of the resort’s lagoon pools or head to Four Mile Beach for a swim. For those feeling more adventurous, explore the local markets or enjoy a relaxing spa treatment.

    Overnight: Port Douglas


  • Day 9: Port Douglas to Melbourne

    After breakfast, check out of your resort and take a shuttle transfer to Cairns Airport for your flight to Melbourne. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel Mercure Welcome Melbourne. Spend the rest of the day discovering Melbourne’s vibrant laneways, galleries, and shops. Federation Square and Southbank are perfect places to stroll, shop, or enjoy a coffee at one of the many trendy cafés.

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Day 10: Phillip Island Penguin Parade

    Today you will head out on a Phillip Island Tour, which includes a visit to Moonlit Sanctuary, where you’ll meet kangaroos, koalas, and a variety of native wildlife. Continue on to the Nobbies for stunning coastal views and a walk along the boardwalk. In the evening, enjoy the world-famous Penguin Parade, where you’ll watch little penguins come ashore at sunset.

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Day 11: Great Ocean Road Tour

    Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Road. Marvel at the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Shipwreck Coast, where you’ll have plenty of stops for photos. Along the way, enjoy walks through pristine forests, and keep an eye out for wildlife like koalas and kangaroos. After a scenic day, return to Melbourne.

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Day 12: End of Australia Journey

    After a final leisurely morning in Melbourne, enjoy some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. You will then be transferred to Melbourne Airport for your flight back home, bringing with you memories of an unforgettable Australian adventure.


Download Full Itinerary
Availability:  
AVAILABLE ALL YEAR
Trip start Trip End Accommodation Price Inquire
Sydney
Melbourne
Moderate
$2,740 USD
We accept:
Visa Mastercard American Express

All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.

Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.

Star Icon

OUR KEY TO EARNING TRUST IS

Transparency

What’s Included

  • 12 nights in 3-5 star hotels and resorts in Sydney, Port Douglas and Melbourne
  • Shuttle Transfers
  • Day Trips as indicated in the itinerary
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary

What’s Not Included

  • Airfare unless specified as included within the itinerary
  • Taxes as applicable
  • Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)
  • Gratuities for Local Guides, Tour Managers, and/or Bus Drivers
  • Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
  • Items (attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Booking & Flight Questions

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.

Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Tour Questions

Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+

There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.

This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.

Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.

The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).

Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.

For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your
Icon of chat

Do you have more questions?

If you still have questions or need more information, feel free to ask! Simply fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you with the answers you need

Ask A Question

or

YOU CAN CALL US AT
1-866-347-6881

An unforgettable journey awaits you

Embark on a travel experience that will stay with you forever. We offer a blend of culture, adventure, and tranquility, ensuring every moment is filled with wonder. Whether you’re seeking thrill or relaxation, we create journeys that are truly unforgettable.

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

Customizable Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Sydney

    Upon arrival in Sydney, you will be transferred from the airport to your hotel in Darling Harbour. Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the vibrant area and the stunning waterfront. Darling Harbour is home to top attractions such as the SeaLife Aquarium and the National Maritime Museum, offering plenty of opportunities to begin soaking in the city’s charm. After checking into Furama Sydney Darling Harbour, relax and enjoy your first evening in Sydney.

    Overnight: Sydney


  • Day 2: Sydney City & Bondi Beach Tour

    Start your day with a Big Bus Sydney Tour, taking in the city's iconic landmarks. Visit the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and explore the bustling Darling Harbour area. Continue on the Bondi Beach tour to discover the famous beach, Centennial Park, and cosmopolitan shopping and dining areas. The hop-on hop-off format allows you to explore at your own pace and enjoy the vibrant city at leisure.

    Overnight: Sydney


  • Day 3: Blue Mountains Adventure

    Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains, visiting the spectacular Three Sisters rock formation at Echo Point and learning about local Aboriginal legends. Ride the Scenic Railway at Scenic World, the world’s steepest passenger railway, and take in stunning views from the Skyway and gondola. You'll also explore the peaceful Katoomba Cascades Waterfalls and wander through the charming village of Leura. End the day with a scenic ferry ride back to Sydney, enjoying views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

    Overnight: Sydney


  • Day 4: Free Day in Sydney

    Spend the day exploring Sydney at your own pace. You can visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, take a ferry to Manly Beach, or enjoy a day of shopping at Pitt Street Mall or Queen Victoria Building. Sydney has a wealth of attractions to suit all interests, and today is yours to discover more of what this vibrant city has to offer.

    Overnight: Sydney


  • Day 5: Sydney to Cairns

    After breakfast, check out of your Sydney hotel and take a shuttle transfer to the airport for your flight to Cairns. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your resort in Port Douglas. Enjoy your first evening in this tropical paradise by the lagoon at your hotel Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas. Relax and unwind by the pool or take a stroll around the charming town of Port Douglas.

    Overnight: Port Douglas


  • Day 6: Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest Tour

    Today, embark on an exciting Cape Tribulation, Daintree & Mossman Tour. Walk through the ancient Daintree Rainforest and visit Mossman Gorge, where you’ll learn about the biodiversity of the region from your guide. Enjoy a peaceful boat cruise along the Daintree River to spot saltwater crocodiles and other wildlife. At Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll have time to relax on the tropical beach and savor a delicious lunch in the heart of the rainforest.

    Overnight: Port Douglas


  • Day 7: Outer Barrier Reef Cruise

    Today you will embark on a Quicksilver Outer Barrier Reef Cruise. Travel to Agincourt Reef, where you can snorkel, dive, or simply relax and enjoy the beauty of one of the most pristine ecosystems on Earth. The clear waters offer excellent visibility, and you'll have the opportunity to encounter vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

    Overnight: Port Douglas


  • Day 8: Leisure Day in Port Douglas

    Enjoy a relaxing day at leisure in Port Douglas. Take a dip in one of the resort’s lagoon pools or head to Four Mile Beach for a swim. For those feeling more adventurous, explore the local markets or enjoy a relaxing spa treatment.

    Overnight: Port Douglas


  • Day 9: Port Douglas to Melbourne

    After breakfast, check out of your resort and take a shuttle transfer to Cairns Airport for your flight to Melbourne. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel Mercure Welcome Melbourne. Spend the rest of the day discovering Melbourne’s vibrant laneways, galleries, and shops. Federation Square and Southbank are perfect places to stroll, shop, or enjoy a coffee at one of the many trendy cafés.

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Day 10: Phillip Island Penguin Parade

    Today you will head out on a Phillip Island Tour, which includes a visit to Moonlit Sanctuary, where you’ll meet kangaroos, koalas, and a variety of native wildlife. Continue on to the Nobbies for stunning coastal views and a walk along the boardwalk. In the evening, enjoy the world-famous Penguin Parade, where you’ll watch little penguins come ashore at sunset.

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Day 11: Great Ocean Road Tour

    Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Road. Marvel at the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Shipwreck Coast, where you’ll have plenty of stops for photos. Along the way, enjoy walks through pristine forests, and keep an eye out for wildlife like koalas and kangaroos. After a scenic day, return to Melbourne.

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Day 12: End of Australia Journey

    After a final leisurely morning in Melbourne, enjoy some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. You will then be transferred to Melbourne Airport for your flight back home, bringing with you memories of an unforgettable Australian adventure.


Download Full Itinerary

Availability:  
AVAILABLE ALL YEAR
Trip start Trip End Accommodation Price Inquire
Sydney
Melbourne
Moderate
$2,740 USD
We accept:
Visa Mastercard American Express

All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.

Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.

Star Icon

OUR KEY TO EARNING TRUST IS

Transparency

What’s Included

  • 12 nights in 3-5 star hotels and resorts in Sydney, Port Douglas and Melbourne
  • Shuttle Transfers
  • Day Trips as indicated in the itinerary
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary

What’s Not Included

  • Airfare unless specified as included within the itinerary
  • Taxes as applicable
  • Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)
  • Gratuities for Local Guides, Tour Managers, and/or Bus Drivers
  • Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
  • Items (attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
Download Itinerary

Get Full Itinerary with all includes and exclusions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Booking & Flight Questions

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.

Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Tour Questions

Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+

There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.

This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.

Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.

The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).

Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.

For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your
Icon of chat

Do you have more questions?

If you still have questions or need more information, feel free to ask! Simply fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you with the answers you need

Ask A Question

or

YOU CAN CALL US AT
1-866-347-6881

Expert Guidance at Your Fingertips

Get in touch with one of our local travel experts.

Contact us to discover:

  • The ideal seasons to explore your next destination landscapes, perfectly aligned with your travel plans.
  • Tips on the most convenient routes and layovers for a hassle-free trip to your next destination.
  • Handpicked activity suggestions to ensure your next trip adventure is unforgettable.
YOU CAN CALL US AT
1-866-347-6881
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