1. Sydney

Sydney is a world-renowned metropolis known for its fine restaurants, shops, attractions and diverse culture. Highlights like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge attract tourists from across the world, with nearby beaches, National Parks and scenic drives added bonuses. Enjoy the picturesque Sydney Harbour by taking a harbour cruise, which will allow you to discover exactly what makes this city so special.

2. Melbourne

Melbourne is a city regarded for its diverse culture, fine restaurants, and cafe and nightlife scene. Positioned on the banks of the Yarra River and inland from Port Philip Bay, Melbourne is a city of class and diverse attractions. Be sure to visit Federation Square, Melbourne Aquarium, the Melbourne Museum and the Melbourne Zoo. The possibilities here are endless.

3. Brisbane

Brisbane is a trendy city, nestled on the banks of a gorgeous river and close to some of Queensland's most thriving holiday destinations. Situated right in between the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane offers a wealth of attractions including Alma Park Zoo, the South Bank Parklands, The Story Bridge Climb and the magnificent Mt Cootha. It is also ideally located right near island paradises like North Stradbroke, Moreton Bay and Bribie Island.

4. Perth

Perth is the capital city of Western Australia and is known for its pristine beaches, pretty parks and flowing rivers. Home to the famous Cottesloe Beach, and the gateway to the superb Swan Valley, Perth is one of the country's most liveable cities and is perfect for a family holiday!

5. Adelaide

The spacious city of Adelaide is scattered with beautiful parks and gardens and is a truly glorious place to visit. Situated close to the South Australian Museum, Adelaide is an ideal city to visit for families with the nearby beaches some of the best in the country. Adelaide is also a fantastic gateway to the beautiful Barossa Valley.

6. Darwin

Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory and is a thriving metropolis for outback travellers. Close by to the incredible Kakadu and Litchfield National Park, Darwin is a city of vibrant cultural scenes and is home to some of the most incredible landscapes in the country. Nestled beside the Top End's best beaches, Darwin offers all of the quintessential Australian experiences all rolled into one.

7. Canberra

Canberra is our nation's capital and is home to much of the country's economic and political activity. Nestled on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra is the location of Australia's finest institutions, museums, galleries and cultural centres. It is also ideally situated within a day's drive of the beautiful Kosciusko National Park; Australia's premier ski destination.

8. Hobart

Hobart is the capital city and one of the most beautiful destinations in Tasmania. Located on the banks of the Derwent River and in the shadows of Mt Wellington, Hobart boasts excellent shopping, dining and outdoor activities and is a city rich in culture, history and heritage. With plenty of towns and attractions all within a day's drive, Hobart is the perfect base for a holiday adventure in Tasmania.

9. Alice Springs

Known simply as "The Alice", Alice Springs is an isolated town located almost smack bang in the centre of Australia. Surrounded by the magnificent East and West McDonnell Ranges, Alice is best used as a base to explore the natural wonders of the outback.

10. Cairns

Cairns is one of Queensland's most northern cities and is most famous as the home to the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Tourists can expect tropical weather and warm waters, which makes spending time at the beaches here an extremely popular option. Head inland and you will uncover the scenic Atherland Tablelands which are sure to delight the senses, and the popular skyrail at Kuranda.

Christine Barton