Title: Things to Do in Eastern Australia in 2026 | Expedia.com [Eastern Australia Travel Guide](https://expedia.com/Eastern-Australia.dx6208904)[Hotels in Eastern Australia](https://expedia.com/Eastern-Australia-Hotels.d6208904.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Flights to Eastern Australia](https://expedia.com/Cheap-Flights-To-Eastern-Australia.d6208904.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Car Rentals in Eastern Australia](https://expedia.com/Car-Rentals-In-Eastern-Australia.d6208904.Car-Rental-Guide)[Eastern Australia Vacation Packages](https://expedia.com/Eastern-Australia.d6208904.Destination-Travel-Guides) # Things to do in Eastern Australia ## Find and book activities, attractions and tours ## Visit Eastern Australia Types of activities Where to stay [Eastern Australia Travel Guide](https://expedia.com/Eastern-Australia.dx6208904) ![The ever popular lonely tree overlooking the Glasshouse Mountains. This tree is located on private property and you can get permission to access the paddock from the owner as per the sign on the gate. You can easily photograph the landscape from the roadside as well. #roadtrip #queensland #australia #mountains #weekendgetaway ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6127562/f66f45df-19fd-45c9-af3f-37ca7b7cedec.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![The ever popular lonely tree overlooking the Glasshouse Mountains. This tree is located on private property and you can get permission to access the paddock from the owner as per the sign on the gate. You can easily photograph the landscape from the roadside as well. #roadtrip #queensland #australia #mountains #weekendgetaway ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6127562/f66f45df-19fd-45c9-af3f-37ca7b7cedec.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![This is Flat Rock, situated in the Blue Mountains in Wentworth Falls. It's a lesser known spot but absolutely beautiful and exhilarating. I found the best way to find it was to search for Little Switzerland Drive in maps and follow that to the end. The area is not fenced so be careful! Great for sunset. ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6035275/b4c8cee9-ae48-4e1a-9c58-cedd6c6b7bb1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Noosa National Park hosts a treasure trove of magical spots on the coastline. I hiked almost through to Hell's Gates to find this gem. :)](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/181632/b4c0a49b-5b9d-46c4-a115-ba977f640a44.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Flying over the amazing Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays! 😀 #NationalPark](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6024049/03702a17-52e3-4434-b663-dffb993c9147.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ### Eastern Australia Attractions Learn what makes Eastern Australia tick with the very best [tours & day trips](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6208904&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent&categories=ToursDayTrips). Check out our top { fun activities in Eastern Australia [fun activities in Eastern Australia](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6208904&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent)}, and rest easy knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees. --- - ![find price illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__find_price.svg) ### Explore activities Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer. - ![calendar shield illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__calendar_shield.svg) ### Book with ease Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities. - ![trophy illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__trophy.svg) ### Treat yourself One Key members save % or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals. [Learn about One Key](https://www.expedia.com/welcome-one-key) --- ## Eastern Australia must see attractions ### 1\. Sydney Opera House Regularly listed as one of the greatest architectural works of the 20th century, the Sydney Opera House sits right on Sydney Harbour, and is listed as a World Heritage Site. The Opera House has several major resident companies including: Opera Australia, The Australian Ballet, Sydney Theatre Company and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Over 1 million people come here to enjoy performances each year, while millions more come just to admire the building, a symphony in itself. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Sydney-Opera-House-Sydney-Central-Business-District.d502962.Vacation-Attraction) ![Sydney Opera House featuring a city, a bay or harbor and boating](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/502962/0a467a1f-c674-496d-9389-aa9e2e1cdf2e.jpg) ### 2\. Circular Quay Circular Quay is situated in the small inlet of Sydney Cove, the official landing site of the First Fleet. Scottish political reformer Thomas Muir once had a cottage here, and for decades it was the city’s main shipping port. Today, it’s best known as the place to catch one of Sydney's iconic ferries, which travel all over the harbor. It’s also a great spot to take in incredible views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Circular-Quay-The-Rocks.d502951.Vacation-Attraction) ![Circular Quay showing street scenes, a sunset and a square or plaza](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/502951/9402712e-68cc-444e-b3d3-5f86b0f262c4.jpg) ### 3\. Marvel Stadium Perched at the edge of the quay in Melbourne, Marvel Stadium makes a magnificent outline in the Melbourne’s skyline. The arena was built in 2000 in an area known as the Docklands, a former wasteland. Visit the stadium to see a game or concert, marvel at the architecture or simply enjoy the lively neighborhood that has evolved after the building of the arena. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Marvel-Stadium-Docklands.d6125921.Vacation-Attraction) ![Marvel Stadium featuring a sunset, a bay or harbor and signage](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6125921/3f7ac692-2aaf-4343-890b-142120907769.jpg) ### 4\. Sydney Harbour Bridge The idea for the Sydney Harbour Bridge dates back to 1815, but work didn’t start until 1923\. Famous for its distinctive arch and enormous pylons, the bridge was completed in 1932\. This was the world’s widest long span bridge until 2012, and Sydney’s tallest structure until 1967\. It contains over 6 million hand-driven rivets and, for each repainting, requires 7,925 gallons (30,000 liters) of paint. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Sydney-Harbour-Bridge-Sydney.d508804.Vacation-Attraction) ![Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/508804/45997c69-8fc7-4a55-96be-63892fec17f6.jpg) ### 5\. Rod Laver Arena Whether you come to the Rod Laver Arena to see a tennis match during the Australian Open, cheer on another sports game or sing along with your favorite band under its retractable roof, you will be impressed by this top-of-the-bill events venue. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Rod-Laver-Arena-Melbourne-Central-Business-District.d6159156.Vacation-Attraction) ![Rod Laver Arena](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6159156/ef11c65d-90f4-49f8-a392-dcb18baedeaf.jpg) ### 6\. Cairns Esplanade The Cairns Esplanade is the tree-lined boardwalk along the foreshore in the city of Cairns. It overlooks the Trinity Inlet and the Coral Sea on one side, and is lined with restaurants and gardens on the other. It has bike paths and walking trails, playgrounds, barbecues, exercise areas and a salt-water lagoon. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Cairns-Esplanade-Cairns-North.d6127785.Vacation-Attraction) ![Cairns Esplanade which includes a pool, swimming and a luxury hotel or resort](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6127785/4d6928c8-cfa7-41e9-ba62-fe6f27b138d5.jpg) ![](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2026/02/06/expedia-sale-2026-desktop-us-ca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1400&h=600&q=mediumHigh) ## The Annual Vacation Sale Members save up to 40% on hotels and homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save. [Book now](https://expedia.com/deals?rfrr=ACTIVITIES_SPRING_PROMO_6208904) ## Recommended things to do in Eastern Australia | Number of things to do | | | ------------------------------- | - | | Cheapest thing to do on Expedia | : | | Top 5 things to do | | | Under $25 | | | With kids | | ## What to do in Eastern Australia - For free - With kids ![](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2020/03/20/icon_rewards.svg) Book [Eastern Australia hotels](https://www.expedia.com.au/Things-To-Do-In-Eastern-Australia.d6208904.Travel-Guide-Activities) on Expedia Australia ### Things to Do in Eastern Australia with Kids There's fun for all the family wherever you roam in Eastern Australia. Here are a few [family friendly experiences](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6208904&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent&categories=Family%20Friendly) to try together that are certain to make your getaway a blast: - [Waterfall Tour](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/waterfall-tour.a1224704.activity-details) - [Rangelands Sunset Tour](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/rangelands-sunset-tour.a1280582.activity-details) - [Age of Dinosaurs Museum Half Day Tour](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/age-of-dinosaurs-museum-half-day-tour.a1280580.activity-details) - [Bundaberg Rum Behind The Scenes Distillery Tour And Museum Experience](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/bundaberg-rum-behind-the-scenes-distillery-tour-and-museum-experience.a1404153.activity-details) --- Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Eastern Australia? [Search event tickets](https://www.expedia.com/event-tickets/) to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend! --- --- ### Discover the most popular places to visit in Eastern Australia ![Circular Quay featuring general coastal views, modern architecture and a city](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/502951/972c7825-5b25-4814-a0ac-6497e997c233.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Circular Quay Flanked by the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney’s transportation hub is one of the prettiest terminals in the world. [](https://expedia.com/Circular-Quay-The-Rocks.d502951.Vacation-Attraction) ![Sydney Opera House showing a bay or harbor, modern architecture and a monument](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/502962/459302cf-7b27-4cb8-9e39-fbe072c060d9.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Sydney Opera House One of the world’s most famous buildings is surprisingly accessible; take in a show or just take a stroll to admire this astonishing building. [](https://expedia.com/Sydney-Opera-House-Sydney-Central-Business-District.d502962.Vacation-Attraction) ![Melbourne city in the night](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6159118/dcb61cc2-514b-4f7b-b5a2-46ac4bcb3a42.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Crown Casino Why not roll the dice by visiting Crown Casino where you can enjoy the games and entertainment of this top casino in Melbourne? Experience the acclaimed art scene and fascinating museums in this vibrant area. [](https://expedia.com/Crown-Casino-Southbank.d6159118.Vacation-Attraction) ![Aerial view of the central business district of Melbourne, Australia](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6159162/277ef7db-f566-4dd7-9e9e-3390cd8cb978.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Melbourne Central You can enjoy some retail therapy when you visit Melbourne Central, a favorite shopping spot in Melbourne. Discover the top-notch restaurants and acclaimed theater scene in this vibrant area. [](https://expedia.com/Melbourne-Central-Melbourne-Central-Business-District.d6159162.Vacation-Attraction) ![Marvel Stadium featuring a sunset, a bay or harbor and signage](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6125921/3f7ac692-2aaf-4343-890b-142120907769.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Marvel Stadium Football, cricket, soccer, basketball, rugby games and numerous concerts have brought millions of fans to this arena in the heart of Melbourne. [](https://expedia.com/Marvel-Stadium-Docklands.d6125921.Vacation-Attraction) ![Sydney Harbour Bridge showing night scenes, a bridge and a sunset](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/508804/7fecd070-d63b-4e64-8f81-83ae63ed464a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Sydney Harbour Bridge Stroll from end-to-end or climb to the top; either way, Sydney’s “Coat Hanger” serves up memories to last a lifetime. [](https://expedia.com/Sydney-Harbour-Bridge-Sydney.d508804.Vacation-Attraction) ![Rod Laver Arena](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6159156/ef11c65d-90f4-49f8-a392-dcb18baedeaf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Rod Laver Arena Take a tour of Melbourne Park’s primary tennis court, come here to witness an exciting Australian Open tennis match or see a major pop concert. [](https://expedia.com/Rod-Laver-Arena-Melbourne-Central-Business-District.d6159156.Vacation-Attraction) ![Cairns Esplanade which includes a pool, swimming and a luxury hotel or resort](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6127785/4d6928c8-cfa7-41e9-ba62-fe6f27b138d5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Cairns Esplanade Stroll along the boardwalk surrounded by palms tree and landscaped gardens and watch the sun set over the Coral Sea. [](https://expedia.com/Cairns-Esplanade-Cairns-North.d6127785.Vacation-Attraction) ![Looking across Yarra River to Seafarers' Bridge](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6061023/86e8fa3b-69b8-4286-8eac-101fa4bda560.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre During your trip, find out what's happening at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, a top convention center in Melbourne. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the shops in this relaxing area. [](https://expedia.com/Melbourne-Convention-And-Exhibition-Centre-South-Wharf.d6061023.Vacation-Attraction) ### Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Eastern Australia ![Sydney Town Hall featuring heritage architecture and a city](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/502950/3976c6f9-4173-4359-8a39-120bd8a7447d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Sydney Central Business District 4.5/5(1,320 area reviews) Historical and commercial heart of Sydney, the CBD boasts towering skyscrapers, lively cafĂ© culture, and nightlife in areas like Darling Harbour. Explore parks such as Hyde Park and cultural institutions, while enjoying easy access to public transport. [](https://expedia.com/Sydney-Sydney-Central-Business-District.dx6050650) ![Melbourne CBD showing outdoor eating](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6052020/e2977acc-edaa-4773-a179-045bf0cd239e.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Melbourne Central Business District 4.5/5(1,080 area reviews) Discover a blend of contemporary and Victorian architecture, vibrant street art, and literary culture in this bustling city center. Explore famed alleyways, visit the State Library, and enjoy easy access to public transport hubs. [](https://expedia.com/Melbourne-Melbourne-Central-Business-District.dx6052020) ![Surfers Paradise which includes a city, a beach and a sunset](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/9849/ff0369e1-1ca5-4110-9524-8407520977e5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Surfers Paradise Visit one of Australia’s most popular vacation spots and dive in the waves, spot humpback whales, go shopping or enjoy the fun family attractions and nightlife. [](https://expedia.com/Gold-Coast-Surfers-Paradise.dx9849) ![Darling Harbour which includes central business district, night scenes and a bay or harbor](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6047418/a2d5eb62-42ce-4fd4-aa40-0b3492929009.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Darling Harbour 4.5/5(269 area reviews) Adjacent to Sydney's city centre, Darling Harbour boasts a pedestrian precinct with attractions like the Australian National Maritime Museum and Chinese Garden of Friendship. Enjoy dining at Cockle Bay Wharf, explore Tumbalong Park, and access various transport options, including the Inner West Light Rail and ferry services. [](https://expedia.com/Sydney-Darling-Harbour.dx6047418) ![Brisbane Central Business District which includes a river or creek, a sunset and a city](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6053112/6444e17a-08a3-4035-8b13-10a92fdbb57d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Brisbane Central Business District 4.5/5(304 area reviews) Densely concentrated skyscrapers and parks define this central business hub, with attractions like City Hall, Story Bridge, and City Botanic Gardens. Enjoy seamless connectivity via road bridges, public transport, and the scenic Brisbane Riverwalk. [](https://expedia.com/Brisbane-Brisbane-Central-Business-District.dx6053112) ![Broadbeach featuring a high rise building, skyline and a beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/177549/0d0489e9-597c-4d99-a9fe-b0d5d2d7f321.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Broadbeach Visit one of Queensland’s most popular holiday spots with sparkling beaches, scenic canals, high-rise hotels, nightclubs, festivals and modern malls. [](https://expedia.com/Gold-Coast-Broadbeach.dx177549) [See our Where To Stay guide](https://expedia.com/Eastern-Australia.dx6208904.Where-To-Stay?rfrr=TG.LP..Neighborhoods) --- Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check [things to do near me](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do-near-me) to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be. --- ## Frequently asked questions ### What to do in Eastern Australia on a sunny day? > - [Keppel Bay Islands Day Cruise](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/keppel-bay-islands-cruise.a264163.activity-details) > - [Paradise Tour](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/paradise-tour.a264167.activity-details) > - [LARC + Lunch](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/larc-lunch.a423214.activity-details) > - [Afternoon Cruise](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/afternoon-cruise.a264171.activity-details) ### What to do in Eastern Australia on a rainy day? > - [Crispy Skin Salmon Cooking Class](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/crispy-skin-salmon-cooking-class.a413126.activity-details) > - [Orient Express Cooking Class](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/orient-express-cooking-class.a413108.activity-details) > - [Pork Star Cooking Class](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/pork-star-cooking-class.a413106.activity-details) > - [Bake My Day Chocolate & Pastry Cooking Class](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/bake-my-day-chocolate-pastry-cooking-class.a413129.activity-details) ### What is Eastern Australia famous for? > - Sydney Opera House > - Sea World > - Crown Casino and Entertainment Complex > - Dreamworld ### What should I not miss in Eastern Australia? > - Circular Quay > - Melbourne Central > - Australia Zoo > - Cavill Avenue ### Are there cheap things to do in Eastern Australia? > - [SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium Entrance Ticket](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/sea-life-sunshine-coast-aquarium-entrance-ticket.a708176.activity-details) > - [Ivanhoe Wines: Seated Wine Tasting Masterclass](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/ivanhoe-wines-seated-wine-tasting-masterclass.a1404402.activity-details) > - [Split Point Lighthouse Tours](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/split-point-lighthouse-tours.a1404227.activity-details) > - [Private seated wine tasting at Munari Wines](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/private-seated-wine-tasting-at-munari-wines.a1295836.activity-details) ### What can you do in Eastern Australia for free? > - Crown Casino and Entertainment Complex > - Sydney Harbour Bridge > - Bondi Beach > - Whitehaven Beach ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save even more - get up to 20% on select hotels when you book on the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. 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