How to make the most of 24 hours in Australia

Does fitting in all your bucket list activities within 24 hours seem impossible to do? It may seem like that as we know how fast time can go - however we can help you make one single day into a full adventure. Your day may start with an early morning swim and surf to a lunchtime trip to Sydney Zoo to see the cutest Koala bears to end at a luxurious dinner at Darling harbour.

This guide will show you how to plan a fun day out in one of Australia's top destinations, including Sydney, the Gold Coast and Perth. Plus another top 6 must do activities that you will remember forever!

Sydney: City Energy, Coastal Soul

It is important to have the perfect balance of beach relaxation, vibrant city life and iconic sights in one trip to Sydney. There is so much to see and do that it will make you want to extend your stay. Let us show you how you can map out your day so you don't miss out but also leaving room for spur of the moment discoveries.

Morning stroll around Circular Quay ☀️

Start your morning bright and early for a walk around Circular Quay, the scenic heart of Sydney, where you will find many quaint restaurants, cafes, boutiques and beautiful city views.

The quay is where you can use the primary transport services such as ferries, buses and trains. Visit nearby places such as Watsons Bay, a 20 minute ferry ride to try the worlds best fish and chips and explore the stunning Camp Cove beach.

Promenade towards the Sydney Opera House, home to the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and venue to opera and ballet resident companies.

The Opera House has plenty of outdoor spaces, gift shops and dining.

Alongside the Quay, the Harbour bridge, enjoy a sunshine walk, embracing the vibrant atmosphere while getting a coffee or breakfast treat from the bustling food court.

Midday retail therapy and nature walk 🌴

Jet off on a coastal adventure and head to the ferries at Circular Quay to Manly. A 30 minute ferry ride, well known for its 3 km beach, retail outlets, snorkelling at cabbage tree bay and nature walks at North Head.

Key attractions at Manly include the pedestrian only street which links the harbour side to the ocean beach. Look out for the shops, coffee shops and street art. There is plenty of water activities available at Manly including; snorkelling, surfing, kayaking and paddle boarding.

If you are a history buff, you will enjoy discovering Manly's historic military site at North Head Sanctuary. Featuring walking trails, WWII tunnels and Fairfax lookout. Between 1881 and 1925, this area was used to quarantine people who were suffering with deadly illnesses which later became their resting place. As well as being apart of the military defence system that spanned 300km of the coastline.

Afternoon visit to see the Aussie Big 5 🦒

Any animals lovers out there? Well you will enjoy your afternoon activity by visiting Toronga Zoo, considered to be the best zoo in Sydney! Only a short ferry ride from Circular Quay, featuring 4000 animals, popular for its seal and bird show.

If you would like to see some African style animals, head to Wild Life Sydney Zoo in Darling Harbour to see the 'Aussie Big 5'; Koala bears, Kangaroos, Wombats, Platypus and Saltwater Crocodile.

Evening dining by the water 🍴

As day goes into night it is time to refresh and dress up for a night on the town. We are heading to the electric streets of Sydney and trying some gorgeous food and drink from budget friendly restaurants like Grana, Bar Luca and The Butler.

After dinner enjoy the stunning views of Sydney all lit up, stroll once again by Sydney Opera house and stumble across the Opera Bar, where you will fall in love with Sydney! Grab a seat and enjoy the front row view of the iconic landmarks right in front of you.

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The Gold Coast: Relax and Recharge

Where beach life meets adventure, the place where you come and start a new chapter. Whether it is for a relaxing holiday or taking the plunge and moving down under; the Gold Coast is the perfect mix of everything you would want.

Morning coffee pitstop and beach views ☀️

The Gold Coast is known for its beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere and there is no better way to spend an early morning than walking around the local area and experiencing every day life in the Gold Coast.

Would you like a coffee? Well head towards Tarte Beach House coffee shop, located south of the Gold Coast; a 10 minute drive from the airport. Recommended for their lattes, breakfast pastries and matcha, a beach house by the water, Tarte is the place to be for a catchup with friends, brunch with family or to collect your iced coffee on the go.

One of our top tips to experience as much as possible is through walking from place to place as you will appreciate your time away much more. Spontaneous discoveries of stunning beaches, new favourite foods, upcoming events advertised and meeting new people.

Midday sweet treat cool down 🍦

Before you start your adventurous afternoon, you may want to cool down from the heat with a healthy but delicious snack from Oak Berry or Yo-chi.

A further 10-15 minute drive from Tarte Beach house, a popular hot spot for tourists if you love frozen yogurt with granola, chocolate, pistachio, strawberries and more. A chain of restaurants up and down the Gold Coast, with views by the water and outdoor seating.

Afternoon laughter at Sea World 🐬

Take a trip up north of the Gold Coast to experience a fun afternoon at Sea World, embrace your fears of rollercoasters, meet dolphin's up close, take a glass bottom boat ride and see the beautiful colours of the coral reef and much more.

Fun Fact: Sea World is one the primary filming locations of the hit television shows 'H20: Just add water' and 'Mako Mermaids'. One of the main characters Cleo, played by Phoebe Tonkin worked at Sea World as a dolphin trainer. She developed a close bond with a dolphin called Ronnie, see if you can spot him when you come and visit 🔍

Evening fuel after a long day 🍔

After a long day in the sun it is time to settle down for dinner at one of the nearby restaurants and bars. Known to be perfect if you are wanting seafood, pasta, chicken and chips, salads and more. Ideal for families that would like an easy meal with reduced transport time from the waterpark.

Alternatively, head to back down South of the Gold Coast, a 30 minute drive to a rooftop restaurant, bar and events space Justin Lane in Burleigh Head. Sit for dinner and drinks and watch as the nightlife takes over with their weekly pizza party, cocktails, DJ and dance floor.

How to fly to the Gold Coast, Australia through Alternative Airlines:

Are you looking to book your next trip? Well why not book with Alternative Airlines today! Explore from over 600+ airlines we service to the Gold Coast and select your preferred way to pay. Choose from either paying upfront through debit, credit or through one of our Buy Now Pay Later partners.

Explore a variety of airlines we service that offer routes to Gold coast, Australia:

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Perth: Elevated Living

Australia's West Coast, framed by the Indian Ocean provides an easy going atmosphere, effortlessly relax and enjoy its riverfront views with vibrant nightlife with friends.

Morning power walk through the gardens🌷

The perfect morning in Perth starts off by getting a taste of nature at Kings Park and Botanic Gardens. Home to over 3,000 species of Flora with cafes, bushland, walking trails and children's play areas. Whether you are having a stroll with your dog, picnic with your family or off on a morning run Kings Park is suitable for everyone.

There are 5 on site cafes for you to visit during your stay, sit down for breakfast at Zambia's cafe and try their: Avocado toast, Acai bowl, Eggs Benedict or maybe their full english breakfast, vegetarian options included.

Midday wineries and lunch with a view 🍷

Take a trip to Swan Valley, 20-30 minutes outside of Perth to enjoy a few hours of sunshine with friends at Lancaster Wines. Take a seat outside and have share a bottle of wine with friends from their outdoor tasting shed. Alongside your own grazing platter of meats and cheeses of your choice, Lancaster Winery is a beautiful place available for tours, walk ins, group bookings, receptions and weddings.

Afternoon window shopping at Murray Street Mall 🛍️

Spend your late afternoon having a peruse in your favourite high street shops like Zara and Uniqlo at open air Murray and Hay Street mall. Enjoy the music from Live buskers while you shop, stop in for a game at Plaza Arcade and explore the variety of dining options to choose from.

Evening sing along and martini 🎵

Perth has a high spirited nightlife, including bars, restaurants, clubs, and even hidden speakeasy's and jazz clubs.

Discover the Ellington Jazz Club, offering entertainment seven nights a week, 500 shows a year. The club has become a prestigious platform for musicians to perform for likeminded jazz enthusiasts.

While the music plays enjoy their seasonal menu which also includes their 12" pizzas and smaller plates; vegan and vegetarian options are also available. Treat yourself to a classic cocktail, range of spirits and on tap beers as well as wines and French champagne.

How to fly to Perth, Australia through Alternative Airlines:

Are you interested in exploring Perth? We would like to show you how you can book your next flight with us today! Explore from over 600+ airlines we service to the Gold Coast and select your preferred way to pay. Choose from either paying upfront through debit, credit or through one of our Buy Now Pay Later partners.

Explore a variety of airlines we service that offer routes to Perth, Australia:

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More of our top suggested activities to do in Australia

• Whitesunday's Island hopping in Queensland: Try out the worlds finest sailing in calm seas and aqua blue water. Exploring 74 islands, (69 uninhabited), choose from guided tours, hire a yacht or charter your own course.
• Ride a luxury train across Australia: Take a trip of the Ghan, from Darwin to Adelaide. Open your eyes and witness the most beautiful and diverse landscapes; the tropical greens, desert sands and rugged mountains.
• Hot air balloon ride above Canberra: A popular activity for those adrenaline lovers, take in the most stunning views and see the beautiful city from a birds eye view.
• Climb the harbour bridge: Look out on the amazing views of the iconic opera house and choose various booking experiences for you and your friends.
• Chase crocodiles in the Northern Territory: Accompanied by trained professionals, get close with the world's largest retiles, a saltwater crocodile. Go on a multi-day wilderness safari and ride through the billabongs and Kakadu floodplains.
• Snorkel in the great barrier reef: See for the first time breathtaking underwater scenery, vibrant colours of the coral reef, majestic sea turtles, graceful stingrays and tropical fish.

Our best top tips when visiting Australia 🇦🇺

• Sun protection at all times: The UV can reach extremely high levels, apply SPF30 or higher every day. We recommend you wear sunglasses and hats where possible.
• Stay safe near open waters: Only swim in accepted patrolled waters, keep alert for red or yellow warning flags and signs indicating dangerous marine life nearby.
• Budget wisely: Cities like Sydney and Melbourne are expensive, we advise researching nearby restaurants and shops where you are staying and finding suitable alternatives to align with your financial goals.
• Packing essentials: Pack a universal power adapter, portable chargers, spare layers for unexpected weather turns and comfortable walking shoes.
• Independent driving: Driving is on the left side of the road in Australia and be aware of "hook turns" - where the left lane is used to turn right to leave more room for oncoming trams.
• Transport: Use an opal card, a contactless smart card, offering pay as you go fares for easy access to ferries, trains, and buses to get around efficiently. This covers Sydney, Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Hunter and Illawarra regions.

Why you should book your next flight with Alternative Airlines?

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