What's it like to visit Australia?
Australia is easy to travel in but huge, so most visitors pick two or three regions. The south (Sydney, Melbourne, Tasmania) is best from October to April; the tropical north (Darwin, Cairns) is best in the dry season from May to October.
How we put this guide together
This guide is editorial, not sponsored. National claims cite sources in the references below; house figures in the city tables link to their individual articles and name their geography, period and measure. House figures are editorially reviewed, not automatically replaced by the weekly population and rent check. Other city figures remain indicative. If something looks out of date, tell us.
Best time to visit
Seasons are reversed from the northern hemisphere. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are mild almost everywhere. Summer is hot and busy in the south and wet in the north.[1]
Visas and entry
Almost every visitor needs a visa or travel authority before flying. Many passport holders can apply for an ETA online.[2][3]
Getting around
Distances are large: Sydney to Perth is a four to five hour flight. Domestic flights link all capitals, and hiring a car is the best way to see regional areas.[4]
References
Best time to visit, by region
| Region | Best time | What's on |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney and NSW coast | September to May | Sydney · Newcastle · Wollongong |
| Melbourne and Victoria | November to April | Melbourne · Geelong · Ballarat · Bendigo |
| Brisbane and south-east Queensland | April to November | Brisbane · Gold Coast · Sunshine Coast |
| Tropical north | May to October (dry season) | Darwin · Cairns · Townsville |
| Perth and WA | September to November, March to May | Perth |
| Adelaide and SA | September to April | Adelaide |
| Tasmania | November to March | Hobart · Launceston |
| Red Centre | April to September | Alice Springs |
| Canberra | March to May, September to November | Canberra |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to visit Australia?
October, November, March and April suit most of the country. For the tropical north, June to August is ideal.
How many days do you need in Australia?
Two weeks lets you see two or three regions properly, such as Sydney, Melbourne and the Great Barrier Reef.