Where to Stay In Australia: Ultimate Guide to the BEST Places

Australia truly is an incredible place to live and after growing up in Germany and living in many different places around the world, I have been lucky enough to call this place my home for many years now. And I can assure you that it absolutely lives up to the hype.

I love showing others my love for this country and its beauty. From swimming in the Great Barrier Reef to road-tripping through the red outback and visiting iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, Australia has it all!

When you take a look at the map, it's hard to grasp how massive Australia actually is. And with so many incredible places to explore, it can be a bit overwhelming to decide where to stay. But don't worry, I've got you covered!

Having traveled extensively throughout the country, I can share some personal insights and detailed information about the best places to stay, top hotels, as well as some of my recommended activities.

Best places to stay in Australia

As I've already mentioned, Australia is absolutely huge. If you're planning to drive across the country all the way from Perth to Sydney, you're looking at over 40+ hours of pure on-the-road driving time. So, it's really important to figure out what you want to see and where to stay before you head Down Under.

If you're visiting for the first time, Sydney is definitely a top choice. This cosmopolitan city has got it all, the famous Bondi Beach, the iconic Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, which are a must-see!

When it comes to the best nightlife in Australia, Melbourne takes the crown. If you're into restaurants, bars, and fantastic city life and a bit of culture, it's the perfect spot for you.

For families and beach lovers, you can't go wrong with the Gold Coast. The beaches there are long and stunning, and you'll find plenty of great neighborhoods with trendy cafes and restaurants as well as hinterland hikes. Plus, there are some seriously fun theme parks to enjoy. 

If you're looking for a romantic getaway or a honeymoon, then the Whitsundays is my go-to recommendation. Hamilton Island and Airlie Beach are absolutely beautiful and relaxing. If you've got extra money for splurging, have a look at staying at the exclusive Hayman Island.

For all budget travelers, Adelaide is the way to go. For a city, it is super affordable and offers a unique experience off the beaten path as not many travelers have this city on their list to visit.

And for all you nature lovers out there, Cairns in tropical north Queensland is a dream come true. With the Great Barrier Reef and stunning rainforests, it's a paradise for swimming, snorkeling, hiking and everything outdoors.

Surfers and anyone who wants to take things a little easier, the famous beach town of Byron Bay is for sure a must-visit. I live 1 hour from Byron Bay and absolutely love visiting, even though it's a small town, it's got so much charm and there's always something new to discover.

Last but not least, if you're seeking an authentic experience away from the touristy crowds, make sure to visit the beautiful city of Perth. As one of the most isolated cities in the world, it also serves as a. gateway to other stunning parts of Western Australia.

1. Where to stay in Australia for the first time: Sydney

While it may not be the capital city (that's Canberra), it's definitely the most popular city in Australia. Sydney is the perfect city escape, no matter if it's your first visit or if you have been before.

Located on Australia's East Coast in the state of New South Wales, Sydney is packed with fun landmarks and activities that are all close together.

You can opt to stay at one of the famous beaches like Bondi, Bronte, or Manly, or you can choose to stay in the CBD near the Sydney Opera House and Darling Harbour. Either way, you can't go wrong – they're all fantastic options! I've got an entire article on the best areas and hotels to stay in Sydney, your choice is all depending on what you're after.

Things to do in Sydney

If you're in Sydney for the first time, there are a few must-do activities that I highly recommend. First and foremost, you can't miss a visit to the iconic Sydney Opera House. Whether you snap a photo outside, attend a performance or take a backstage tour of the stunning building, it's worth checking out.

Another popular activity is walking across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You'll get some amazing views of the city and harbor, and it's completely free! If you're feeling adventurous, you can also do the BridgeClimb over the Sydney Harbour Bridge where you'll be walking up to the very top of the bridge. I've done it and if you're not afraid of heights, it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Of course, no trip to Sydney would be complete without visiting the famous beaches. Bondi Beach is known for its golden sands and fun surf culture, while Manly offers a more laid-back vibe and is a great spot for families.

And if you have some extra time, I highly recommend taking a day trip or staying overnight in the Blue Mountains. Just a stone's throw away from Sydney, the Blue Mountains National Park is filled with stunning views and incredible hiking trails.

Best hotels to stay in Sydney

($$$) Capella Sydney

My favorite luxury hotel in Sydney is the Capella Sydney, located near the Sydney Harbour. This 5-star hotel offers spacious rooms with air conditioning, a swimming pool, and a luxurious spa.

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($$) Sir Stamford Circular Quay

For a mid-range option, I recommend the Sir Stamford Circular Quay. This modern hotel is located in the CBD and offers spacious rooms with views of the Sydney Botanical Gardens, as well as a fantastic rooftop pool.

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($) Hyde Park Inn

And for a more affordable option, the Hyde Park Inn is my top choice. It's located in the heart of the CBD and offers simple yet comfortable rooms and spacious apartments.

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2. Where to stay in Australia for shopping & nightlife: Melbourne

Melbourne might not receive as much attention as Sydney, and its beaches may not be as pristine.

However, in my opinion, Melbourne has the absolute best nightlife, shopping, and food (and coffee!) scene in the country.

The entire city center (CBD) and surrounding neighborhoods like Fitzroy or Brunswick are packed with incredible cafes, restaurants, and bars. So, if you're up for a great time and treating yourself to some tasty food and drinks, Melbourne is the place to stay.

Moreover, Melbourne has an incredible culture and art scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and events happening all year round. There's always something exciting to see and do.

Things to do in Melbourne

When it comes to activities, Melbourne has tons of awesome things to do. Foodies will be in heaven with the endless options of cafes and restaurants to choose from. While touristy, I do recommend checking out the Queen Victoria Market, especially for their Night Market event. Some of my personal favorites for breakfast and lunch are B2W and Max on Hardware.

For a super fun day trip, I highly recommend taking a drive along the Great Ocean Road. The views of the coastline are absolutely stunning, and you'll get to see famous spots like the Twelve Apostles and Bells Beach.

If you're an art lover, you've got to visit the National Gallery of Victoria. They've got an incredible collection of Australian and international artwork.

And if you're in need of some serious relaxation, the Mornington Hot Springs is the place to be. They're just a short drive outside of Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula.

Best hotels to stay in Melbourne

($$$) The Savoy Hotel

The Savoy Hotel is a luxurious 5-star hotel located near the heart of Melbourne's CBD. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, and the hotel offers an on-site restaurant and fitness center.

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($$) Rydges Melbourne

For a mid-range option, the Rydges Melbourne is a great choice. It is located in a convenient area near the CBD and offers an incredible rooftop pool and bar.

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($) The Jazz Corner Hotel

For a more affordable option, The Jazz Corner Hotel is my top pick. It offers modern and cozy apartment-style rooms just a stone's throw away from many bars and restaurants.

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3. Where to stay in Australia for families & beaches: Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is an amazing spot for a family vacation with everything you could need. You'll find loads of fun water activities and incredible beaches to hang out on.

Surfers Paradise, as the name suggests, is the most touristy part, it's got plenty of restaurants, pubs and clubs and attracts a younger crowd. It's not exactly my favorite place on the Gold Coast, but if you're a backpacker or want to party, there are plenty of clubs and affordable hostels.

If you're after a more relaxed vibe, areas like Broadbeach and Burleigh offer a more laid-back atmosphere with plenty of fantastic cafes and restaurants to explore. Broadbeach is conveniently located close to the casino and biggest shopping mall Pacific Fair, and with plenty of accommodation options, it's a great area to stay for families and couples.

For more, read my full Gold Coast neighborhood and hotel guide.

The best part is that the Gold Coast is also home to many of Australia's theme parks, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable trip with your kids.

Things to do on the Gold Coast

As mentioned, the Gold Coast is known for its beaches, trendy cafes and theme parks. Visit Dreamworld or Warner Bros. Movie World is a must-do for families with kids. You can also check out SeaWorld and Wet'n'Wild water park for more fun.

Aside from the theme parks, you can't miss the SkyPoint Observation Deck at Q1 Tower in Surfers Paradise. It offers amazing city views of the coast and even has a thrilling SkyPoint Climb experience where you can climb onto the roof of the building.

And if you want to get up close and personal with Australian wildlife, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit. You can feed kangaroos, hug koalas, and learn about all kinds of native animals.

Best hotels to stay in Gold Coast

($$$) JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa

One of the luxury hotels on the Gold Coast is the JW Marriott. It offers stunning oceanfront views and even has its own private outdoor swimming lagoon.

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($$) Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise

For a more affordable yet still luxurious option, Meriton Suites is a stunning new tower and the perfect choice. It offers spacious and modern apartments for up to 10 people, ideal for the whole family.

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($) Wyndham Resort Surfers Paradise

For a budget-friendly option, Wyndham Resort is a great choice. It offers comfortable and well-equipped apartments for up to 10 people, along with access to an outdoor pool and spa.

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4. Where to stay in Australia for couples & honeymooners: Whitsundays

What's the perfect spot in Australia for couples? I would recommend the Whitsundays. With its white sandy beaches, breathtaking islands, and a range of fun activities, it's like the Maldives of Australia.

When it comes to accommodation, you have a few popular options, from Hamilton Island to Airlie Beach and a few lesser-known islands in between. Hayman Island is your choice if you want to splurge a little, perfect for a romantic getaway or a honeymoon.

Things to do in the Whitsundays

The Whitsundays are all about stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Of course, a visit to the world-famous Whitehaven Beach is a must-do. I recommend you take a sailing trip to this beautiful stretch of white sand and enjoy the breathtaking views while sipping some wine.

If you're feeling a little more adventurous, then try snorkeling or scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. This natural wonder is home to thousands of species of marine life, making it a must-see for any visitor to Australia.

And for the ultimate romantic experience, take a scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands. You'll get to see the stunning views from above and even land on a secluded beach for a private picnic.

Best hotels to stay in the Whitsundays

($$$) InterContinental Hayman Island Resort

For the ultimate luxury experience, you can't go wrong with the InterContinental on Hayman Island. It's located on its own private island and offers spacious rooms with air conditioning and access to the swimming pool.

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($$) Reef View Hotel

For a more affordable yet still luxurious option, the Reef View Hotel on Hamilton Island is a great choice. It offers stunning ocean views and a beautiful and serene outdoor pool.

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($) Coral Sea Marina Resort

For a budget-friendly option, the Coral Sea Marina Resort in Airlie Beach is a great choice. It's one of my favorite resorts in the area, as it has a massive 25 metres long pool and a fantastic spa.

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5. Where to stay in Australia for budget travelers: Adelaide

If you're traveling on a budget, then Adelaide is the perfect destination for you. It's not only the most affordable city in Australia but also has tons of attractions to explore without breaking the bank. 

Located in South Australia, it's often overlooked by tourists, which means you can enjoy all the fun stuff without dealing with the crowds you typically find in Sydney or Melbourne. Despite its small-town vibe, Adelaide is packed with fantastic parks, beaches, museums, and some really good restaurants.

Things to do in Adelaide

There are plenty of things to do in Adelaide that won't cost you a fortune. For nature lovers, a trip to Kangaroo Island is a must-do. You can spot kangaroos, koalas, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. I also recommend exploring the Adelaide Hills, which is one of Adelaide's wine regions and is filled with small towns and former German settlements.

For a taste of the local produce, head to the Adelaide Central Market. It's the largest undercover market in Australia and has been operating since 1869. Here, you can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to gourmet cheeses and handmade chocolates.

And if you want to explore the city, take a stroll through the beautiful Adelaide Botanic Garden. It's free to enter and features stunning greenery, themed gardens, and even a greenhouse filled with exotic plants.

I also really liked visiting Glenelg Beach, located just a short drive from Adelaide, its got pristine white sands, a vibrant atmosphere, and breathtaking sunsets, making it an idyllic seaside retreat. In summer, there are even beach bars right on the sand, something that's rather uncommon in Australia.

Best hotels to stay in Adelaide

($$$) Oaks Glenelg Plaza Pier Suites

For a luxurious stay in Adelaide, check out the Oaks Glenelg Plaza Pier Suites. It offers spacious and modern rooms with balconies overlooking the ocean, an indoor pool, and a luxury spa, making it perfect for a romantic getaway.

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($$) Lakes Hotel

For a more affordable option, the Lakes Hotel is a great choice. It's located just outside of Adelaide and features a spa center, fitness area, and an award-winning restaurant.

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($) Ibis Adelaide

For budget travelers, the Ibis Adelaide is a fantastic choice. It is centrally located and offers basic yet comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It's great value for money, especially if you want to stay in a central location.

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6. Where to stay in Australia for nature & adventure: Cairns

If you're looking for the ultimate nature and adventure experience in Australia, then I gotta recommend Cairns. This charming little town in the northern part of Queensland is the perfect starting point to discover some of Australia's most breathtaking natural wonders.

Cairns serves as your gateway to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef and the oldest rainforest on the planet, the Daintree and Mossman Gorge. And when you need a break from all the exploring and adventuring, Cairns has a pretty lagoon pool right by the beach, plus it's got some wild nightlife scene too.

Things to do in Cairns

Cairns is all about nature and adventure, with endless activities to choose from! The most popular one is, of course, snorkeling or scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. There are many tour operators that offer day trips out to the reef, where you can witness the colorful marine life up close.

If neither of these is for you but you still want to see the Great Barrier Reef, I suggest you join one of the scenic flights. It's one of the best things I've ever done, absolutely so stunning and I still talk about it to this day!

For a more relaxed experience, you can hop on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, a historic railway that takes you through the rainforest and offers stunning views of waterfalls and gorges.

For the ultimate rainforest experience, you have to check out Port Douglas, Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation. You can book a tour, but personally, I'm all about renting a car and driving it yourself. That way, you can soak in the breathtaking lush green scenery and maybe even catch a glimpse of some amazing wildlife like kangaroos or cassowaries along the way.

Best hotels to stay in Cairns

($$$) Oaks Cairns Hotel

For a luxurious stay in Cairns, check out the Oaks Cairns Hotel. The brand-new 2020 hotel offers stylish and modern rooms, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, and an on-site restaurant.

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($$) Coral Tree Inn

Coral Tree Inn is a great mid-range option in Cairns. This modern hotel features a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, spacious rooms with a private balcony, and a central location close to the city centre.

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($) Palm Royale Cairns

When it comes to value for money, you can't go wrong with Palm Royale Cairns. It offers fantastic rooms with air conditioning and one of the nicest pool areas I've seen in Cairns.

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7. Where to stay in Australia for the coolest vibes: Byron Bay

With its hipster cafes, hidden street art, breathtaking sunsets, awesome surfing, and super laid-back vibe, Byron Bay really has it all. Once you set foot here, you won't want to leave this little surfer town,

The town itself offers many fun things to do, from cafe hopping to hanging out at Clarked Beach to hiking up the Cape Byron Lighthouse and if you venture beyond, you'll discover plenty of National Parks and other super chill towns like Bangalow and Nimbin.

It's the perfect place to relax and unwind while getting a taste of Australia's famous beach culture.

Things to do in Byron Bay

Byron Bay is all about chilling and enjoying the good vibes, so make sure to take some time to relax on one of the many beautiful beaches.

If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at surfing or rent a kayak for a different perspective of the coastline. You should join one of the sea kayaking tours where you can spot wild dolphins and sea turtles.

For some stunning views, hike up to Cape Byron Lighthouse – the easternmost point of mainland Australia. You might even spot some dolphins or whales (during the season) from the top.

Byron Bay is also known for its delicious food, with plenty of trendy cafes and restaurants to choose from. My two favorites here are Bayleaf Cafe and Folk; they both serve amazing coffee and brunch.

Best hotels to stay in Byron Bay

($$$) Elements Of Byron

For a luxurious stay in Byron Bay, my go-to is Elements Of Byron. This eco-friendly resort offers private villas, an adults-only pool lagoon, and direct access to the beach.

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($$) Waves Byron Bay

Waves Byron Bay is a great mid-range option, located just a short walk from the beach and town center. The boutique hotel features stylish rooms with balconies, a common area, and bike rentals.

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($) Bayhaven Lodge

For budget-friendly accommodation, check out Bayhaven Lodge. The guesthouse offers comfortable and clean rooms, a shared kitchen and lounge area, and a lovely garden with BBQ facilities.

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Where to stay in Australia – Frequently Asked Questions

⏰ How much time do I need in Australia?

It really depends on what you want to see and do in Australia. The country is massive, so if you want to explore multiple regions along the East Coast and then hop to Western Australia or the Northern Territory, I recommend at least 4 weeks. Many people pick either the West or the East Coast, but the East Coast is the most popular area to travel. Here, I suggest spending at least 2-3 weeks to truly enjoy it. If you only have a week or two, I recommend sticking to one region like Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane and focusing on the highlights nearby.

🚗 How do I get around in Australia?

When it comes to getting around Australia, you have plenty of options to choose from:

• Plane: It's the quickest way to travel between cities, though it can be pricey. But with Australia being so big, flying is often the best choice for hopping between major cities, especially if you're short on time.

• Train: While there isn't a large train network connecting major cities but rather regions itself, they are not super popular. However, trains are a great and affordable option, especially around places like Melbourne or Sydney.

• Bus: In cities, you'll find plenty of buses or the metro as part of the public transport network. And if you're traveling up the East Coast, hopping on a bus is also a popular choice. Check out Greyhound—they've got a handy hop-on hop-off deal that's perfect for exploring multiple stops.

• Car/Van: For the ultimate adventure, nothing beats exploring Australia by car or campervan. It's your chance to go on the perfect road trip along the coasts or through the outback.

💰 Is Australia expensive?

The short answer is yes, Australia can be expensive. Compared to other countries, things like accommodation, food, and transportation are quite pricey. However, if you need to, you can budget and find ways to save money. Stick to local markets for fresh produce, take advantage of free activities like hiking and beach days, and consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or on a campground. With a little bit of planning, you can definitely make Australia more budget-friendly!

🕷️ Is Australia dangerous?

I understand that there's a perception that everything in Australia wants to harm you, but the truth is, that Australia is generally a very safe country to travel in. Of course, it's always important to use common sense and take precautions, especially when exploring the great outdoors. Just keep an eye out for spiders and snakes, especially in your shoes when you leave them outside (better take them inside at night). Be aware of wildlife, such as sharks in the waters, and if there's a no swimming sign in Northern Queensland warning you about venomous jellyfish and crocodiles, you should avoid swimming. Stay safe and enjoy your time in Australia!

Where to stay in Australia – Final Words

Australia is honestly the ultimate country for an epic once-in-a-lifetime trip! I mean, I didn't choose it as my home for no reason! There's so much to see and do, from the bustling cities, most stunning beaches and national parks to Australia's natural beauty. And when it comes to accommodation, you'll find options for every budget and preference. 

Whether you're looking for a luxurious resort in Byron Bay or a cozy hostel in Melbourne, I'm sure you'll figure out where to stay in Australia. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. See you Down Under!