Aboriginal settlers arrived on the continent from Southeast Asia about 40,000 years before the first Europeans began exploration in the 17th century. No formal territorial claims were made until 1770, when Capt. James COOK took possession in the name of Great Britain. Six colonies were created in the late 18th and 19th centuries; they federated and became the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. The new country took advantage of its natural resources to rapidly develop agricultural and manufacturing industries and to make a major contribution to the British effort in World Wars I and II. In recent decades, Australia has transformed itself into an internationally competitive, advanced market economy. It boasted one of the OECD's fastest growing economies during the 1990s, a performance due in large part to economic reforms adopted in the 1980s. Long-term concerns include climate-change issues such as the depletion of the ozone layer and more frequent droughts, and management and conservation of coastal areas, especially the Great Barrier Reef.

Canberra - the purpose-built national capital of Australia

Australian War Memorial

Treloar Crescent (top of ANZAC Parade, at the other end from Parliament House), Daily 10AM-5PM. Not just a memorial, this is one of Australia's premier museums, covering Australian military history from Federation to the present day and including fascinating exhibits of equipment, memorabilia and battle dioramas. You could easily spend a full day here (it has a café, or bring a picnic lunch if the weather is nice and sit on the lawns at the front). Anzac Parade, leading up to the War Memorial has a number of memorials to different wars and those involved in wars. Free entry, allow 4-7 hours.

Canberra Museum and Gallery

Cnr London Circuit & Civic Square, Civic, Tue-Fri 10AM-5PM; Sat-Sun 12PM-5PM. A museum and art gallery featuring works and exhibits of the local region. Also features the Sydney Nolan Collection - the works of Sir Sydney Nolan, a famous Australian artist. Free.

National Capital Exhibition

Barine Dr ( in Commonwealth Park (off Commonwealth Avenue)), open 9-5 Mon-Fri, 10-4 Sat-Sun. See an exhibition about the original Burley Griffin Plan for Canberra and how the city was planned and built. Good views over Lake Burley Griffin out to the museums on the Lake's south shore. Free.

National Film & Sound Archive

McCoy Circuit, Acton, A unique collection of Australian sound and film recordings of which a small selection showing iconic moments in Australia's cultural history is explored in this museum.

National Museum of Australia

Lawson Crescent, This controversial museum has lots of interactive exhibits and groups items by concept rather than era. Free admission except for special exhibits. Allow 2-7 hours.

Australian National Botanic Gardens

Located at the base of Black Mountain in Acton, the ANBG has the largest collection of Australian native flora in the country. It also has some interesting water dragons that live in the water features around the gardens. A delightful place for a picnic, try to grab some food from the city centre first to take with you for lunch. If you are there during summer, call and ask about the jazz evenings. These are held on the weekend and many families attend with evening picnic and champagne in tow, to chill out to the sounds of jazz in the balmy evening temperatures. Entry is free, however parking is $1.40/hr or $7 all day at ticket machines, with proceeds going towards the gardens.

High Court of Australia

Parkes Place, Parkes, 9:45-4:30 Mon-Fri (not open weekends or public holidays). This vast building is the home of Australia's highest court and contained a vast lobby and three main courtrooms that are open to the public. Tours are available, though restricted when the court is sitting. There is a cafeteria in the building as well.

National Gallery of Australia

Parkes Place, Parkes, 10AM–5PM. Located by Lake Burley Griffin, this modern structure is one of the country's largest art galleries. It has a vast collection of paintings and sculptures collected from Australia and the rest of the world and has excellent Aboriginal artwork. A nice gift store and a large bookstore on the ground level. Free except for special exhibits. The Gallery offers free public one-hour tours: Australian and International art at 11AM and 2PM daily, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art at 11AM on Thursdays and Sundays. Allow at least half a day and possibly more.

National Library of Australia

The library is primarily a research centre, but normally has one exhibition showing parts of the collection. Also notable for its neo-classical architecture.

National Portrait Gallery

King Edward Terrace, Parkes (adjacent to High Court and National Gallery of Australia), except Christmas Day. The Gallery opened to the public on the 4 December 2008, and displays some 400 portraits of people who have shaped and who continue to shape the nation. There are gallery spaces for the collection and temporary exhibitions, public areas including a café, shop, function room, theatrette, education and school group areas, and basement car parking. Portraits are in various media, depending on the era. Galleries are themed by era. The web site gives a good idea of the content. free except for major exhibitions.

Old Parliament House (featuring the Museum of Australian Democracy)

King George Terrace, Parkes, The headquarters of Australian government from the 1920s to 1988, this building is a must for political and/or historical junkies. The building gives a real feel of what it was like when it was in use and has in the past regularly featured rotating exhibitions on the controversies and scandals that rocked Australian politics. It is now a permanent museum. Most of the main rooms - the Prime Minister's office, the Cabinet Room, the various party rooms, the two houses - are open to visitors, as are many smaller rooms like the whips' offices and the broadcasting area. There are also historical photos of Canberra as it used to be, including the times prior to the creation of the artificial lake that show Canberra under snow during winter (the lake warmed up the city and snow falls rarely on the city now). The gift store has decent souvenirs. Parking is free, admission is A$2 for adults, A$1 concession. Allow 2-3 hours.

Parliament House of Australia

Capital Hill (access from Commonwealth Avenue), The seat of Australia's federal government and legislature and a remarkable piece of modern architecture. Tours are available (you must pass through a security check) or when Parliament is sitting you are allowed to view proceedings in the public gallery (another security check is required for this, and expect queues and long waits around 2PM on sitting days for "Question Time" in the House of Representatives. The Senate is likely to be less busy but less exciting.) Allow 2-3 hours.

Questacon

The National Science and Technology Centre, King Edward Terrace, Parkes, 9AM-5PM. Questacon is an interactive museum of science with exhibits illustrating scientific ideas from the principles of physics to the motion of an earthquake. Great for kids and excellent science books can be picked up here. (Oct 06) $15.50 adults, $10.50 concessions, $9 children, and $46 for a family of 2 adults and 3 children. Allow at least half a day.

Australian Institute of Sport (AIS)

Leverrier Crescent, Bruce, The AIS runs tours a couple of times a day. The tours are usually run by in-residence athletes. See the training areas and find out about the development and strategy of the facility. At the end of the tour there are interactive exhibits to try various sports. The pool here is open for public access during certain hours. $15.

Embassies

As the national capital, Canberra hosts the embassies of most countries, listed below in Embassies. Most of the embassies are built in an architectural style typical of that particular country. In Yarralumla (the closest embassy district to the city), the Embassy of China, Embassy of Papua New Guinea are particularly worth a look. The Embassy of the United States of America is also worth a drive past, being the oldest embassy in Canberra. It is best to have a car or bicycle for touring so you can stop and have a look around.

Government House (Yarralumla)

Viewing platform off Lady Denman Drive, Yarralumla. The main official residence of the Governor-General of Australia, representative of Queen Elizabeth in Australia. Closed to the public except for open days. There is a viewing platform off the Lady Denman Drive, or glimpses can be seen from the main gate at Dunrossil Drive, Yarralumla, or Weston Park, Yarralumla. Often kangaroos are to be spotted munching grass on the lawns, so be careful driving along the ride that gets to the viewpoint, especially at dusk.

Royal Australian Mint

Take a tour of the mint and see how coins are made. You will even get the chance to mint your own souvenir coin. Look for the pudding coins as a souvenir (not always available). Allow 1-2 hours. Free.

The Lodge

Adelaide Avenue, Deakin. The Prime Minister's official residence. Generally closed to the public and one can only see part of the garden from behind the wall. There are open days about once a year and if you are lucky to be in Canberra then, it shouldn't be missed.

Black Mountain Tower (Telstra Tower)

Black Mountain Drive, Acton (5 km from the city centre). Open daily 9AM-10PM. This functional communications tower rises 195 m above the summit of Black Mountain, providing 360 degree views of Canberra and the countryside around it from a viewing platform 60m up the tower. Well worth a visit, day or night, for the fantastic views - look for the cork tree plantation and Parliament House. It has a revolving restaurant and telecommunications history display. Above the restaurant there is a two level viewing platform: the bottom level is indoor and has a souvenir shop and refreshments; the upper level is an open air area. Its a nice view, but the mountain is already already 260m above the lake, and the viewing platform is only another 60m above the mountain. You can decide if that is worth the price of admission. $7.50 adult, $3 aged pensioner, $3 child 4-16 yrs, free for children under 4 years; a family pass (2 adults, 2 children) costs $17

Other Lookouts - Canberra is surrounded by hills and there are plenty of other great vantage points to view the city. Many of these you can also drive to the top. The best vantage points are:

Mount Ainslie (off Fairbairn Avenue, Campbell/Forrest)

Vehicular access available

Red Hill (off Melbourne Avenue, Deakin/Forrest)

Vehicular access available

Mount Majura (access via Antill St in Watson

Also service road off Majura Road) - no vehicular access, walking tracks only.

Mount Taylor (access via Waldock St, Chifley)

Partial vehicular access; to reach the top you will need to walk.

Mount Pleasant (via General Bridges Drive, Duntroon)

Vehicular access available between 7AM and 7PM.

Kangaroos in the wild

Campbell Park Offices, Northcott Drive (north), Campbell (off Fairbairn Avenue (between the Australian War Memorial and the airport, at the roundabout go the opposite direction from the Australian Defence Force Academy along what appears to be a road into the bush (forest). After about 250m, a massive building will appear. This office complex is used by the Department of Defence. Veering left (up-hill) there will be occasional free parking spaces on weekdays; veering right (down-hill) there is an extensive, free car park.). mornings until around 8-9AM; afternoons after 4.30PM in winter, or else from a hour before sunset. Kangaroos form family social groups come to the semi-irrigated grassland next to the Campbell Park Offices (reputedly the longest building in the Southern Hemisphere) from the adjacent nature park and graze the grass from evening until mid-morning. During the day they return to the nature park reserve and lie in the shade of the trees. Observe the kangaroos on the grass areas in the car park or near the building. During the day, you can park and walk along paths to the up-hill side of the building, even cross the fence, and look for kangaroos in the reserve. Security guards are not concerned by tour groups in coaches, or people in/from cars. free.

Blundell's Cottage

A historic cottage of some of the earliest settlers of the area. Guided tours and school tours available. $7 adults $5 concession $15 family.

Calthorpe's House

24 Mugga Way, Red Hill, Sat and Sun 1PM-4PM. Historic house picturing life in Canberra in the early days of the territory. $7 Adult $5 Concession $15 Family. Note a three site pass covers here, Lanyon (in Tharwa, see below) and Mugga Mugga in Symanston (see the website).. 

Floriade

Festival of flowers, a yearly event held in spring (September-October), not to be missed. Tulips are the main feature but many other colourful flowers and floral displays are featured. There are also sculptures, garden stalls, makeshift restaurants, activities, live music by local performers and sometimes there is even a gnome or scarecrow festival where children (and some adults) paint gnomes or make scarecrows and enter a competition to choose the best. Great for a photo opportunity!

Summernats

Summernats is a festival of modified cars, car cruising, burnouts, etc, which takes place first thing in the new year. If you are not into this culture, this is a good time not to be in Canberra, as even the most civilised hotels are overtaken by drunken 'nats'.

The Multicultural Festival

 A must to visit, has many events, such as concerts, performances and an International Food Fare with over 200 stalls selling original food of different countries. Happens every year in February.

Thai Embassy Food Fair

Once a year - do not miss this! The Philippines, Sri Lanka and some other embassies do similar events sometimes.

Diplomatic Charity Bazaar

Held occasionally. Great place to buy original things specific to various countries, sold by staff of the embassies.

The National Folk Festival

Held every Easter over 5 days, featuring local, national and international folk musicians, dancers and craftspeople.

The Canberra show

held in February featuring shows, amusement park rides and agricultural competitions. Has most of the features of the Sydney Royal Easter Show, but on a smaller scale with less crowds.

Tharwa Village

A small village, one of the original settlements in the ACT area. See the old bridge over the Murumbidgee River, visit Lanyon Homestead (see below) and Cuppacumbalong Pottery. Tharwa is also the gateway to Namadgi National Park and Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

Lanyon Homested, Lanyon Drive

Tuesday - Sunday 10AM-4PM. Historic homestead of early Canberra settlers, guided tours, walks and a maintained garden. Cafe for lunch, coffee and cake. Note a three house pass for $15/10/30 covers Lanyon, Calthorpe's House and Mugga Mugga house in Symanston. $7 Adult $5 Concession $15 Family.

Namadgi National Park

The National Park making up most of the ACT and the most northerly of the Australian Alps national parks. Lots of walking tracks, including scenic views over the Brindabella Ranges, mountain bike trails and scenic drives (on unsealed roads). Inside the park are Honeysuckle Creek and Orroral Valley, the former sites of tracking sites for the Apollo Moon Landings. Enquire at the visitors centre on Naas Road or see the website for further details. In winter roads in the park may be closed because of snowfall. Free (charges apply for camping). 

Adelaide - the City of Churches, a relaxed South Australian alternative to the big eastern cities

Historic beachside suburb of Glenelg offering a jetty, the 'Grand' (a quality hotel) and many restaurants and cafes. Catch one of the historic trams from in Adelaide's CBD on weekends and holidays (or new 'light rail' trams other times).

Montefiore Hill in North Adelaide (provides a spectacular view of the city, especially at night)

Adelaide Hills, including the Mt Lofty Summit which provides spectacular views of the Adelaide plains, Adelaide metropolitan area, Adelaide CBD, Glenelg and surrounding areas. There is a restaurant at the Mt. Lofty summit, which is moderately priced and there is a souvenir shop which also offers tourist information. The summit cannot be accessed by vehicle between late evening and early morning hours, however the lookout is still accessible by foot.

Hahndorf German settlement, a short drive up the freeway, attractions include a small chocolate factory, the Beerenberg Strawberry Farm (where you can pick your own strawberries for very reasonable prices!) parks with barbeque facilities and a playground plus many small stores selling all manner of products.

Walking North Terrace will take you past the Casino (Railway Station below), Parliament House, Government House, the State Library, Migration Museum (free entry), Art Gallery (free entry), Adelaide University, University of South Australia, Royal Adelaide Hospital, the Botanic Gardens. A worthwhile trek!

Catch an O-Bahn bus out to the North East suburban shopping centre of Tea Tree Plaza. The O-Bahn is a 12Km long guided bus way, where special street buses run on guided tracks at up to 100Kmh and uses the unified metroticket system mentioned above.

During mid-March, the Clipsal 500 supercar racing event is very popular, sporting massive street parties, huge concert line-ups and many fanatic Adelaidians.

During late Feb-March, the Adelaide Fringe Festival (second largest of its type in the world) and Festival of Arts bring the city alive with music, arts, dance and culture from all over the world. Both are large and very popular events visited by people from all over the world. WOMAD (World of Music Arts and Dance) is another hugely popular music festival now held every year in March. People come from all over Australia and overseas to be at this very special event. Adelaide at its very best.

Lazy walks along white sandy beaches.

Picturesque Victor Harbor and Granite Island, just an hour or so drive south of Adelaide. Granite Island is one of the few places you can see Fairy Penguins in their natural habitat.

The stunning Flinders Ranges begin just one and a half hours north of Adelaide.

Whispering wall at the Barossa Reservoir.

Conservation parks such as Cleland and Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary, Cleland is a good stop on the way down from Mt. Lofty. The park offers gas BBQ facilities (Entry fees apply).

See the Rundle Lantern light display (Cnr Rundle St and Pultney St). From dusk to midnight every night with 750 light panels.

Migration Museum

Migration Museum is on Kintore Avenue, Adelaide (behind the State Library). Open everyday 10AM-5PM, except Good Friday and Christmas Day.

Art Gallery of South Australia

Art Gallery of South Australia is on North Terrace, Adelaide (half way between Kintore Avenue and Frome Road in between the South Australian Museum and the University of Adelaide), 8 8207 7000, Open everyday 10AM-5PM, except Christmas Day.

South Australian Museum

South Australian Museum is on North Terrace, Adelaide (next to the Art Gallery of South Australia). Open everyday 10AM to 5PM, except Good Friday and Christmas Day.

Port Adelaide Lighthouse

Port Adelaide SA Train Museum

Glenelg Museum & historic tram

Gawler Museum, via Gawler train line

The South Australian Maritime Museum

Located at 126 Lipson Street, Port Adelaide. Adult: $8.50 Concession: $6.50 Child: $3.50 Family: $22 (2 adults & up to 5 children)

The National Motor Museum

The National Motor Museum is in Birdwood, less than an hour's drive from the city centre.

The National Wine Centre in the city centre

Adelaide Central Market

A vibrant hub of fresh food delights and one of the world's largest undercover markets.

Belair National Park

Belair National Park is a national park of 835 ha, located 11KM south of Adelaide City. Due to its history as a "Recreation Park" it has many good trails for bushwalking, as well as tennis courts and grassy areas available for hire, and a good adventure playground for children. Old Government House, the colony's first official Vice-regal summer residence, is located within the park. A vehicle entry fee applies to cars entering the park, or else its western parts can be accessed from the Belair line train, a 35 minute journey from Adelaide city. The park gates are open daily from 8AM to sunset, everyday except Christmas Day.

Cleland Conservation Park

Cleland Conservation Park is a large National Park of 992ha, located 20 minutes from Adelaide City. Although it lacks the picnic and sports facilities of Belair, Cleland offers greater opportunities for tourists to get up close and personal with Australian native fauna. Visitors can feed and wander at their leisure among kangaroos, wallabies, Emus and waterfowl. Displays of Dingoes, reptiles, Tasmanian Devils, Wombats, Echidnas and Koalas allow easy viewing access, or stroll through the aviaries. Visitors also have the rare opportunity to be photographed holding a Koala, under supervision from Parks and Wildlife Officers. There is also an Aboriginal cultural tour.

Morialta Conservation Park

Located 10 km north-east of the CBD, where the suburbs meet the Adelaide hills. It covers 533 ha, and contains numerous walking trails of various levels of difficulty, including trails that pass by three major waterfalls, and provide panoramic views over Adelaide itself. There is also a popular rock climbing area within the park. Note that the waterfalls only flow in the winter months, and are usually completely dry by Christmas.

Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary

Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary is a privately run wildlife sanctuary, strongly fenced off from the outside, allowing it to remain completely free of feral plants and animals, especially cats. Warrawong offers unguided day, and guided day and night tours for tourists. As well as allowing visitors to get up close and personal with well known animals like the Kangaroo, Warrawong also offers a unique opportunity to see a number of very rare or less well known native Australian animals, such as the Platypus, Tree Kangaroo, Quoll, Bettong, Potoroo, Pademelon, Bandicoot, Bilby and Possums.

Brisbane - capital of sun-drenched Queensland and gateway to beautiful sandy beaches.

Alma Park Zoo

About thirty minutes north of the city centre. The Zoo Train can be caught from the city on the Caboolture line.

Brisbane City Hall and King George Square

Located between Adelaide and Ann Streets, this is the city's most significant historical landmark. City Hall often hosts free concerts throughout the year. There is a restored lift that can be taken to the top of the clock tower for free. The lift opens at 10PM and stops running at 3PM (2:30PM on Saturdays) daily except Sundays. There is no access to the clock tower outside of these hours.

City Botanic Gardens

10 to 15 minute walk from the city centre and Central or Roma Street railway stations. Walking and cycling tracks. Exhibits. Open 24 hours. Free.

CityCat

Take the CityCat river taxis up and down the river. A great couple of hours to see the city at speed. It's also very cheap, less than $5 for a daily combined transport ticket (which includes all citycat/ferry/train/bus).

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

15 minutes drive from the city on Jesmond Road in Fig Tree Pocket (via the Western Freeway). Catch the hourly 445 or 430 buses from the city or the Mirimar boat cruise from Southbank at 10:20AM. Tel: +61-7-3378-1366. World's first and largest koala sanctuary, with over 130 koalas. Cuddle a koala any time, hand feed kangaroos and encounter a large variety of Aussie wildlife, all in beautiful, natural settings.

Manly Boat Harbour

Located 20 minutes from Brisbane's CBD, Manly Boat Harbour is the nearest access point from Brisbane city to Moreton Bay. Nestled beside the Manly Harbour Village, it is Brisbane's gateway to the Moreton Bay Marine Park with its pristine waterways and fascinating islands. Manly Harbour Village has a great range of dining and shopping options overlooking the marina.

Mt Coot-tha

Brisbane's tallest mountain (which isn't actually a mountain). A popular makeout spot with a great view and good but overpriced cafe and restaurant. Also home to one of the Botanical Gardens and a Planetarium.

Museum of Brisbane

In King George Square. Features one floor of exhibits about the history of the city, and another floor for exhibitions of local artists.

New Farm Park

This historic park is famous for the long line of jacaranda trees, shady picnic areas and its large rose gardens that contain hundreds of variety of roses, and over 40,000 individual plants.

Queensland Cultural Centre

Including The Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Queensland Museum, Queensland Art Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) and State Library of Queensland - located on Grey Street in South Brisbane. The site can be accessed via various types of public transport, which include bus Route 333, 66, 183, 172, 192, 300, 105, 107, 108, 460, 425, 430, 140, 306, 322, 120, 135, 202 etc. The Queensland Conservatorium and the Queensland College of Art are also located on Grey Street. The recently opened GoMA regularly hosts exhibitions featuring internationally famous artists (such as Warhol and Picasso) as well as many local contemporary artists.

Roma Street Parklands

Roma Street Parklands - is the world's largest subtropical garden in a city centre and home to 1800 unique species of plants. Experience the theme gardens such as the topiary maze, rain forest walk, lake, celebration law and amphitheater with many public artworks to admire.

Southbank

Formerly the site of World Expo '88 this relatively recent development is across the Brisbane River from the heart of the city and features an artificial beach surrounded by extensive parklands. Also in Southbank are the shops, cafés, restaurants and cinemas of the Grey Street precinct. A great place to hang out on a hot day and swim for free. Suncorp Piazza within Southbank often hosts free live events and movies.

University of Queensland

One of Australia's oldest and most prestigious institutions situated on a bend of the Brisbane River. Its majestic sandstone buildings are surrounded by ornamental lakes, Jacaranda lined boulevards and some of the finest architecture. Visitor attractions include the Great Court, the UQ Art Museum at the James and Mary Emelia Mayne Centre, the Eleanor Schonell Bridge, the Schonell Theatre, the lakes and Wordsmiths Bookshops. The university can be reached by bus from George St on bus numbers 412 and 109 or via the City Cat.

Wheel of Brisbane

 (Located At Southbank) is a Ferris wheel that allows you to observe the city from 60 m to give views across the and Brisbane River. The trip is a 15 minute ride in an enclosed, climate controlled gondola. Open 7 days a week from 10AM - 10PM, tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for children 12 years and under, $2 for children aged between one and three.

Cairns - gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Port Douglas, the Atherton Tablelands, Daintree National Park, and many beautiful beaches and resorts. A great place for people to getaway to and relax.

Catch an amateur rugby game in town if you can, the locals play a mean game, and it's a great way to meet local folks.

International cricket is sometimes played in Cairns at Cazaly's Stadium. Time your visit right and you could catch a great game for just a couple of dollars.

Cairns is home to one of Australia's best basketball teams, as well as basketball's most famous mascot, Joe Blake the Snake.

Many natural Cairns attractions include the Great Barrier Reef, Copperlode Dam, Atherton Tablelands and Daintree Rainforest

Cairns is the hotspot for wildlife diversity in Australia and is an ideal place to see a huge variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles. Places such as Mount Lewis, Lamb Range, or Mount Hypipamee are ideal locations to see anything from a Cassowary to Tree Kangaroos.

Darwin - Australia's tropical northern capital, at the top of the Northern Territory

Darwin Wharf Precinct

Darwin Wharf, Darwin. At 9.58AM on February 19, 1942, the wharf was a target for Japanese bombs, which claimed the lives of many service personnel and waterside workers. Many of the historical landmarks remain and can be explored today.

Fannie Bay Gaol

East Point Road, Fannie Bay. 10:30AM until 4PM. Fannie Bay Gaol operated as Darwin’s major prison for almost 100 years from 1883. Two maximum security wings were added during the 1950s and the gallows were used for executions until 1952. The building’s grim and oppressive history can be felt as you walk through. free.

Australian Aviation Heritage Centre

557 Stuart Highway, Winnellie. The Australian Aviation Heritage Centre, houses an impressive collection of the Territory's aviation history and reminds us of Darwin's frontier role in World War II. To fully appreciate all the centre has to offer, allow yourself at least an hour and a half. Take advantage of the guided tours, video presentation and range of souvenirs. entry fees apply.

Burnett House at Myilly Point

Myilly Point, Darwin, ph +61 (8) 8981 0165. Architect B.C.G. Burnett designed homes adapted to the climatic conditions of the Top End, which included the use of lightweight materials and natural ventilation. It is worth leaving your visit to Myilly Point until Sunday afternoon, when you can take High Tea in the shady tropical gardens at Burnett House.

Browns Mart

Browns Mart. Browns Mart is a stone building that was opened in 1885 as the store ‘Solomon’s Emporium’. It played many roles over the years, but today has become a cultural and historic icon of the city that is regularly used for theatre and performances.

Adelaide River War Cemetery

During World War II, Adelaide River township was the site of a large military base. The war cemetery created there is now the final resting place for 434 military personnel and civilians involved in the war effort. The cemetery is set in lush surrounds alongside the Adelaide River with beautifully tended gardens providing a peaceful backdrop for remembering the fallen.

Lyons Cottage

Lyons Cottage. Lyons Cottage, overlooking Darwin Harbour on The Esplanade, was built in 1925 to house staff working on the submarine cable that connected Australia with Britain. Also known as British Australia Telegraph (BAT) House, Lyons Cottage survived the Japanese bombing raids of 1942 and 1943 and escaped structural damage from Cyclone Tracy in 1974. The Cottage today houses a collection of Aboriginal and European photographic displays.

The Old Court House and Police

Built in 1884 for the South Australian Government, these colonial style buildings made from local stone have housed criminals, the Navy and today the NT Administrator’s Offices. Restored after damage by Cyclone Tracy, these buildings are a stark reminder of the Darwin of yesteryear.

Aviation Heritage Centre

Aviation Heritage Centre. The Aviation Heritage Centre has an impressive collection of aircraft and displays depicting the Territory’s involvement in aviation from the early pioneers to the jet age. The prize exhibit is a B-52 bomber on permanent loan from the United States Air Force, one of only two on public display outside the US. The centre is 8 km from Darwin city and is on the site of fierce air combat that took place overhead during World War II.

Bicentennial Park

This scenic stretch of parkland along The Esplanade overlooks Darwin Harbour. It’s a great place to kick a footy, soak up some rays or have a picnic while watching the sun set.

George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens

A stone’s throw from the city centre are 42 hectares of gardens that showcase local flora and that of other tropical habitats around the world. Explore monsoon forests, coastal foredunes and open woodlands on a stroll through the botanic gardens.

Lake Alexander

An ideal spot for swimming all year round, Lake Alexander is popular for picnics and barbecues. Spend the day by the water, have a game of volleyball and tire the kids out on the playground.

George Brown Botanical Gardens

 (Geranium Street off the Stuart Highway). 7AM to 7PM. free.

Casuarina Coastal Reserve

The Reserve encompasses 1500 hectares, including 8 km of sandy beaches bordered by dramatic cliffs. Stretch your legs on one of the walking paths or grab a table and settle in for a barbecue under a shady Casuarina tree.

Charles Darwin National Park

Shell middens in the area indicate that it has been used by Aboriginal people for thousands of years. The Larrakia people are the traditional owners of the land. During World War II, this area was part of a network of military sites that formed Australia’s front line of defence, and as a result there are many bunkers and storage facilities remaining.

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT)

Bullocky Point (Darwin Harbour), free admission, open Mo-Fr 9AM-5PM, Sa-Su + public holidays 10AM-4PM,closed Christmas, Boxing Day, New Years Day and Good Friday, set on a tropical garden on Darwin Harbour is this, the Northern Territory's premier cultural institution. The MAGNT collections place the region's art, history and culture, and natural history in an Australian and international context through research, interpretation and collection development. These collections encompass Aboriginal art and material culture, visual arts, craft, Southeast Asian and Oceanic art and material culture, maritime archaeology, Northern Territory history and natural sciences. The MAGNT complex consists of five major permanent galleries, a touring gallery, educational facilities for school groups, a theatre, the Museum Shop and the Cornucopia Museum Cafe. All contribute to providing an entertaining, diverse and educational experience for the local community and visitors to Darwin. Marvel at the giant Salwater Crocodile known as "Sweetheart" who was responsible for attacking multiple boats in the 1970s, the 18 foot Crocodile is now on display in the museum.

Northern Territory Parliament House

State Square, Darwin, ph +61 (8) 8947 2145. Located in State Square, Northern Territory Parliament House is Australia’s newest. Opened in 1994, it was built on the site of the old Darwin Post and Telegraphic Office, which included the Post Office, the telegraph office, the telephone exchange, cable company offices, stores, staff residences and staff messes. Public tours are conducted regularly at no charge, although booking is essential. free entry.

Hobart - Picturesque and quiet capital of Tasmania. Site of the second convict settlement in Australia.

Salamanca Market

A major Saturday morning attraction, for locals and visitors alike. Situated in front of large sandstone warehouses which have been converted into a maze of craftsmen's workshops, giftshops, restaurants and other 'artsy-crafty' shops. These warehouses were mostly built to service 19th century whaling. Market stalls are one of the cheapest places to buy Tasmanian timber products.

Battery Point

Behind Salamanca Market. This area is very old and full of interesting architecture. Many of these buildings are built in the area's golden sandstone, giving the older parts of the city a warm golden glow. Even though it is a very poor building material compared to Sydney sandstone.

Botanical Gardens

Beautiful location about fifteen minutes walk from the city centre. A must see attraction is the sub Antarctic garden. Its like walking into a freezer full of plants!

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery

Donate some money so they can tart up their act. Has one of the best coin collections in any museum. It also houses stuffed versions of unique Tasmanian animals including Tasmanian Devils and the extinct Tasmanian Tiger. Currently hosting an excellent exhibition about Australia's antarctic history.

The Maritime Museum of Tasmania

Carnegie Building, cnr Argyle and Davey Streets

Salamanca

There are many small art galleries located around Salamanca Square.

Melbourne - Australia's second largest city. Melbourne is a large sporting, shopping and cultural capital. Melbourne is regarded as Australia's most European city in style.

Docklands

An entire new precinct filled with shops, bars, restaurants and a stadium with a waterside setting.

Eureka Tower

Tallest residential building in the southern hemisphere, panoramic views of the whole of Melbourne.

Parliament House of Victoria

The first seat of the Australian federal government, free tours are available on week days.

Queen Victoria Market

Huge and colorful, with an assortment of fresh and dry produce and tonnes of souvenirs and other interesting things.

State Library

Worthwhile if you're into books, city architecture and free internet.

AFL World

A great introduction to Australian Football.

Southgate

Pretty promenade on the south bank of the Yarra, with lively restaurants, bars and a Sunday art & craft market.

Federation Square

Modernistic and popular meeting space to see Melbournians enjoy life whilst sitting down at cafes and bars.

Melbourne Musuem

It is the largest museum in the Southern Hemisphere and home to seven main galleries, a children's gallery and a temporary exhibit gallery on three levels, Upper, Ground and Lower Level.

Lygon Street

Crammed with Italian restaurants, gelatarias and coffee shops, which all serve some of Melbourne's best hospitality.

IMAX Cinema

Right next to the museum. It shows movies, usually documentary films, in 3-D format.

Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens

UNESCO World Heritage site (tours available through the museum).

Melbourne Zoo

Usual assortment of zoo animals in a natural-like setting with lots of Australian native species too. Jazz at the Zoo is a popular weekend evening function over the summer months for a picnic, music and evening stroll around the animal enclosures.

University of Melbourne

The premier university of Victoria, and internationally recognised as a leading university, it is a hub of students, fine Victorian architecture and gorgeous sprawling gardens.

Luna Park

Historic amusement park built in 1912.

St Kilda Pier

Popular spot for fishing and walking.

St Kilda Esplanade

Fine place for walking, skating, sunbathing and on Sundays, discovering new treasures at the Esplanade Sunday market.

St Kilda Botanical Gardens

With the first trees planted in 1859, the Botanical Gardens are a sprawling oasis of tranquility and greenery.

Jewish Museum of Australia

Depicts the history of the Jewish community in Australia.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Water restrictions limit traditional floral gardens. It does have nice old trees, drought tolerant displays, a cafe and grassy places to loll about. In summer you can see outdoor movies and Shakespeare plays.

Chapel Street/Toorak Road

Kilometer-long strip of fashionable but often unaffordable shops plus some top end restaurants to match.

Chapel Street

Famous for its street cafes and designer fashion boutiques. Cheaper stores are found at its southern end.

Prahran Market

A market dedicated to the finest quality fresh food. You can find gourmet delights here that you will find in no other place in Melbourne. Prahran Market also has children's activities and a large Market Square to sit and enjoy.

Commercial Road

Known for its gay-friendly eateries, shops and clubs.

Woodlands Historic Park

Immediately north of Melbourne Airport, contains an 1840s homestead and a nature reserve.

Brighton Beach

One of Melbourne's favoured beaches, be sure to check out the infamous 'bathing boxes', brightly coloured boxes that are dotted along the sand.

Brunswick St

Long and lively cafe/bar strip with cheap and decent eats.

Smith St

Slightly run down yet charming street with cafes, bars, and unique clothing (and other) shops.

Perth - the most remote continental capital city on earth, on the south-western edge of Western Australia

The Perth Cultural Centre

Located adjacent to the Perth Train Station and Northbridge. It is the hub of cultural activity in Perth, including the art gallery, the museum, the State Library and the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts. CAT buses stop regularly; the Blue CAT Stops 7 and 15 both service the Cultural Centre, as well as Yellow 24, Red 31 and the Perth Train Station.

Kings Park

A large and lush park that is full to the brim with native flora and fauna. Located to the South-Western side of the city centre, Kings Park provides a fantastic view over the city (especially at night). The modest yet striking War Memorial can be found here. To get here, take either bus #37 (weekdays) or #39 (weekends) from St Georges Terrace. Also 39 on Sundays (Kings Park is located within the Free Transit Zone if you are traveling from within the city centre).

The Red Bull Air Race

Held in Perth annually in early November. It is the Final of the season and the event determines the overall winner of the competition. Thousands of spectators pack the Swan River foreshore as planes fly at low altitude (just metres above the water!) at speeds reaching well over 300kmp/h). After the race, there is an air show in which the pilots can perform some airborne trickery. Potential spectators should be warned that it is a very busy event: parking will be a enormous problem (with some locals going to extreme lengths to get spaces) and public transport sparse.

Fremantle

About 20km south-west of Perth's city centre is the original port town of Fremantle. Even today, the port still supports a major maritime industry. Despite the fact that Fremantle is a part of Greater Perth, it is still considered by many to be a city all its own as back in the old days; Perth and Fremantle were separate colonies. Small enough to walk around in, Fremantle boasts attractions that include; the Maritime Museum, the Fremantle markets (located on South Terrace, amongst the cappuccino strip), the E-Shed markets (located near the Fremantle wharf), the Little Creatures brewpub, the Fremantle Gaol (after dark "Ghost Tours" are worthwhile) and South Beach. Why not hire a moped to complete the very European feel of this humble yet wonderful port city? It is worth noting that the locals call Fremantle affectionately 'Freo'.

Hillarys Boat Harbour

Can be found within Perth's northern suburbs (just a thirty minute car ride). Here you can swim all day in the ocean; be warned however that the water is full of seaweed. There is a small water park called The Great Escape, for those who need to keep the kids entertained! The Aquarium of Western Australia (Aqwa) is located at Hillarys as well. Aqwa features an underwater observatory that takes the shape of a tunnel. It is possible to get up-close and personal with sharks, stingrays and a huge variety of marine life. (Bus 456 from Greenwood station will get you to Hillarys during daylight hours on weekends.

Perth Mint

The nation's oldest operating mint and one of the oldest mints in the world. Even today it still produces coins and gold bullion from its original premises. You can buy and sell gold, jewellery and souvenirs, see the mint in operation and watch molten gold being poured to create gold bars. (Walk from City Centre along Hay Street east or catch the red CAT).

Perth Zoo

Perth Zoo has been open since 1898 and has an excellent reputation with both tourists and locals alike. Free guided tours are provided at 11AM and 1:30PM each day. Thirty-six animal fact files, featuring some of Perth Zoo's most popular species, are available for you to download free before your visit to Perth Zoo[14]. Buses 30, 31 and 34 provide a quick and easy means by which to get to the zoo however if you do feel like a good walk, take the Transperth ferry from the bottom of Barrack St. Once at Mends St, head up the hill to the first major road (Labouchere Rd), turn left and cross at the next available set of traffic lights. The zoo is a bit further up-hill, but it is well worth the walk for those who prefer to keep active. On the way back from the zoo and heading back to the jetty, there are plenty of pubs, cafes and restaurants at which you can stop in for a bite, including the Oyster Bar and Cocoa's (which are located right on the riverfront).

Burswood Entertainment Complex

Situated amongst some of the most valuable real estate in all of Australia is this all-in-one entertainment precinct. The casino offers all games, the theatre provides a venue for some of the best touring productions while the Burswood Dome is a 20,000 capacity arena that regularly hosts tennis tournaments and international concerts. Also included within the complex are a number of bars and pubs including Paddy Hannan's (named after the first person to strike gold in West Australia) and the infamous nightclub The Eve (previously the Ruby Room). Take the Thornlie line (platform 4) from the central station, McIver or Claisebrook (platform 2).

Claisebrook Cove

A major urban redevelopment area on the Swan River, on the fringe of the city centre. Spend an hour or so wandering about the brightly coloured, modern and strikingly unusual architecture before you wind down with a meal and a hot or cold bevy. Views of the city centre from the footbridge that runs above the cove are particularly stunning at night. (Take the yellow CAT to the Haig Park Circle stop during daylight hours or take the Midland, Armadale or Thorline line to Claisebrook transfer station which is located within the Free Transit Zone).

The Swan Bells

A bell tower located at the foot of Barrack Street, near the ferry wharf. The bells are from the church of St Martin-in-the-Field in London, and were a gift from the London to the people of Perth. The bell tower has a modern design, and is somewhat controversially regarded by locals. It costs $11/$7 to enter the tower, and you get a view over the river and city. You can look around the outside of the tower, and hear the bells at noon. It is a nice part of town, surrounded by park and next to the river.

Mundaring Weir

A historic feature of the Perth landscape, the Mundaring Weir was completed in 1903 and was designed by the famous engineer C.Y. O'Connor (who also responsible for the Fremantle Harbour and the Kalgoorlie water pipeline). Visitors may walk over or around the Weir and the surrounds have picnic areas featuring public barbecues. There is also a museum nearby which documents the history of the Weir and the Pipeline project. The Mundaring Weir Hotel is also a historic landmark and offers good food, accommodation and often live (usually classical) music. The Weir is a relatively short drive from the Mundaring townsite and it provides an ideal gateway into Perth's scenic hills.

Whiteman Park

Located in the Northern outskirts of the city, Whiteman Park is an amazing national park and wildlife sanctuary. Kids can pet the Kangaroos and other wildlife and the grownups can enjoy the railway, railway museum and loads more. Perth features an abundance of similar wildlife parks which are spread around the outskirts of the metropolitan area.

Australian Rules Football

Perth, like Melbourne, is mad for its footy! Every weekend, Subiaco fills to near-capacity with either West Coast Eagles or Fremantle Dockers supporters. Why not choose whose colours you like best and join in the fun? As the Eagles are the more popular and successful side in the Australian Football League (A.F.L., games are likely to sell out well in advance, so it is best to buy your tickets a couple of weeks before the scheduled fixture (Ticketek offer a pick-up service as the venue). Aussie rules football might be hard to understand at first, but it is quite exciting.

Sydney - Australia's oldest and largest city, famous for its picturesque harbour. Sydney is the capital of New South Wales

The Sydney Harbour Bridge

Crosses the harbour from the The Rocks to North Sydney. There are many different experiences centred around the bridge. You can walk or cycle across, picnic under, or climb over the Harbour Bridge. See the details in The Rocks.

The Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is simply one of the most famous structures ever built. It is in the city centre.

Darling Harbour

A large tourist precinct and includes a range of activities, restaurants, museums and shopping facilities.

Sydney Olympic Park

Home of the 2000 Olympics and now parklands and sporting facilities.

Luna Park

1 Olympic Dr, Milson's Point, tel. 02 9033 7676. Is a large theme park situated near the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It's mouth-shaped entrance can be seen from many areas of Sydney as well as the large Ferris Wheel.

Sydney Tower

Sydney Tower also called Centrepoint Tower or AMP Tower. The tallest structure in Sydney, the tower contains a buffet, cafe and a rather large restaurant and attracts many visitors a year. The tower is in the City Centre

St Mary's Cathedral

Sydney's main catholic cathedral. Corner of St Mary's Road and College St. The cathedral is in the City Centre.

The Rocks

The Rocks has sites preserved from Sydney's early settlement.

Parramatta

Parramatta to the west of Sydney is the site of many of Sydney's oldest buildings from colonial times.

The Australian Museum

The Australian Museum is much the old style natural history museum. Usually a special exhibition on as well. The museum is near Hyde Park in City Centre.

The Australian National Maritime Museum

The Australian National Maritime Museum has inside and outside exhibitions - much of the history of Australia is a maritime one, and much of it is in this museum in Darling Harbour.

The Art Gallery of NSW

The Art Gallery of NSW has mostly classical, but some modern and Aboriginal art. Near the Botanical Gardens in the city centre.

The Powerhouse Museum

The Powerhouse Museum has some buttons to push, some technology, but some interesting displays of Sydney in the 1900s, in the City West in Ultimo, right on the boundary with Darling Harbour. Exhibits designed for children also.

The Museum of Contemporary Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art in the city centre, near Circular Quay.

The Museum of Sydney

The Museum of Sydney in the city centre.

Taronga Zoo

Large zoo whose animals have the best view in the world, a short ferry trip from the City on the North Shore.

The Koala Park Sanctuary

In the Outer West.

Sydney Aquarium

In Darling Harbour.

Sydney Wildlife World'

Sydney Wildlife World' adjacent to the aquarium in Darling Harbour.

Featherdale Wildlife Park

In Western Sydney

Australian Reptile Park

About an hour north of Sydney, has kangaroos, wallabies, dingos, and more.

Symbio

Whale Watching

See whales migrating the Pacific coast. There are boats from Darling Harbour or Circular Quay.

Bats (Flying foxes) nest

Next to the fernery in the Botanic Gardens in the city, and fly to feed over the city buildings and Harbour Bridge at dusk, you can see them on the eastern side of the Opera House at sunset.

Rainbow Lorikeets

Rainbow Lorikeets swarm around the trees in many suburbs at dusk, making a tremendous chatter Sulphur Crested Cockatoos are commonly seen in the leafier suburbs all day.

Ibis

Ibis are an unusual wader bird, that has made its home in the suburbs, especially in Hyde Park in the city

Possums

Possums are a native marsupial at home in the urban environment. Look up carefully in tree lined streets, or in Hyde Park after dark.

Kangaroos. Wallabies, and Rosellas.

These can be spotted with patience in most of the Sydney National Parks, including the Royal National Park, ask the local rangers where they tend to be seen in the late afternoons. This is a great way to experience Australia’s native wildlife in their natural habitat compared to seeing these amazing animals confined in zoos, but requires considerably more time and patience.

Sydney Harbour

Sydney's large natural harbour was the reason that the original penal settlement was established in the area, near what is now known as Circular Quay. It is now well developed, with skyscrapers, highrises, and houses all around its shores, but it is still very beautiful.

The harbour is served by ferry services that transport passengers around the harbour. An excellent way to see both the harbour and Sydney attractions is to take a ferry east from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo or Manly or west under the Harbour Bridge towards Parramatta. These are reasonably priced and a favourite for tourists. If time is short, for a shorter route, the ferry between Circular Quay and Darling Harbour will let you ride under the Harbour Bridge and see the central part of the harbour.

Sydney Harbour can be viewed from the city or from on of the many walks next to it, most of which are easily accessible by ferry or bus.

You can arrange a guided tour of the islands by contacting the Sydney Visitors Centre at Cadmans Cottage, 100 George Street, The Rocks, ph 02 9247 5033. fax 02 9241 3303.

The world famous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race begins every year on Boxing Day, on Sydney Harbour. Thousands of spectator craft take to the water to farewell the yachts as they set off on their grueling journey to Hobart. Seaworthy craft can follow the yachts through the Sydney Heads into the open ocean. You can also see the race from a harbour vantage point like Watsons Bay. where you can see them sail towards you across the harbour, and then cross to the gap to see them sail down the coast.