The world’s largest island but the smallest continent Australia is divided into six states and two territories.
Though Australia is the earth’s sixth-largest country with 7 692 024 km2, its topography is not that varied and consists of mostly low desert plateau with the southeast having the most fertile plains. However, due to its massive land size, the country has several varied climate zones– from a more tropical climate in the northern part to a relatively cooler climate in the southern parts.
Suffice to say, the six states and the two territories of Australia offer different amazing things to experience for locals, tourists, and international students. In this article, we feature the most popular attractions, in each of the states and territories of the land down under.
Sydney Harbour in New South Wales
Nothing is more iconic than the Sydney Harbour surrounded by long shorelines, national parks, and historic sites, including the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. The Harbour offers a wide range of activities for both locals and tourists, from embarking on a chartered cruise from Circular Quay or Darling Harbour around the harbour to riding a ferry to Manly Beach or Taronga Zoo.
NSW is also home to Vivid Sydney, the annual celebration of creativity, innovation, and technology. One of the most popular highlights of Vivid Sydney is the Vivid Light, wherein the city is illuminated on a massive scale. This year marked the longest continuous light walk ever, running uninterrupted from Sydney Opera House to Central Station.
World Natural Heritage Areas in Queensland
Queensland is the second-largest state in Australia, next to Western Australia. Having a land area of 1,727,000 square kilometres, the state boasts of five World Natural Heritage areas namely the Scenic Rim National Parks, Fraser Island, Riversleigh Fossil Fields, the Wet Tropics (including Daintree National Park), and the Great Barrier Reef, one of the Wonders of the World.
Margaret River in Western Australia
Covering nearly one-third of the country, Western Australia is amazingly vast and diverse offering a wide range of attractions including intricate rock formations, ancient Aboriginal sites, and world-class wineries. Australia’s largest state is also known for the Margaret River, the premium wine region and home to home of the country’s most remarkable wines and stunning vineyards.
Coober Pedy in South Australia
Aside from being known for its cosmopolitan culture that highlights festivals, incredible food, and top-tier wine regions, South Australia is also made popular by Coober Pedy, Australia’s opal capital. As a desert underground mining settlement, Coober Pedy is famous for its red dirt and sun-baked lunar landscape that allows for a quirky lifestyle such as underground houses, hotels, and even shops.
Great Ocean Road in Victoria
Victoria is the southernmost state on the mainland of Australia and is known to offer the greatest drives in the world along the Great Ocean Road, a 240-km stretch of some of the most stunning coastline in the world. Recognised as an Australian National Heritage, the Great Ocean Road encompasses the surf capital Torquay, the famous 12 Apostles, and the historic fishing village Port Fairy.
Lush Greenery in Tasmania
Tasmania is an island detached from the mainland and is most famous for its lush greenery, breathtaking mountains, cascading waterfalls, and widely known for having the cleanest air in the world. In addition, over 20% of the state is a world heritage area, including 18 national parks. Aside from nature’s beauty, Tasmania is also known for cool-climate wines such as sauvignon blanc, pinot noir, and sparkling wine.
Outdoor Exploration, Urban Adventure, and Arts in the Australian Capital Territory
Australian Capital Territory is where Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is located. Conveniently located between Melbourne and Sydney, ACT offers a good mix of food adventures, cultural immersion, and outdoor activities.
Uluru in Northern Territory
Also known as Ayer’s Rock, Uluru is one of the most famous attractions in Australia. The giant monolith formed about half a billion years ago and has been a significant landmark to Aboriginal people.