Visiting Australia on a Budget
Australia has a reputation as one of the most expensive countries in the world, but with so many free and cheap attractions scattered around the country, it’s easier than you might think to discover Australia on a shoestring. From discovering the natural world in Melbourne to exploring Sydney harbour and beaches, here are the very best of Australia’s free attractions.
City Circle Tram, Melbourne
The City Circle Tram is one of the easiest ways to explore Melbourne, but it may surprise you to hear that it’s completely free! You’ll be taken to some of the city’s top attractions and landmarks such as the City Museum, Parliament House, Docklands, Federation Square, Melbourne Aquarium and the Princess Theatre and a free audio commentary is available on board. You’ll even find a whole host of free leaflets featuring invaluable information about Melbourne as well as easy to read maps to help you find your feet. You could even spend all day on the tram as it offers a hop on and hop off service. Simply board at any of the routes marked on the stop.
Sydney Harbour Walk, Sydney
While many of Sydney’s top attractions are likely to set you back more than a dollar or two, the completely free Sydney Harbour Walk is a great way to see some of the city’s major sights without spending a penny. The 16 mile footpath also boasts 28 optional loops so you can choose just how much (or how little) you want to see of the harbour’s best scenery and attractions. The whole route will probably take around eight to ten hours to complete on foot, so it’s best to combine the footpath with public transport and create an itinerary of the places you’d most like to see.
Bondi Beach, Sydney
Australia boasts one of the world’s most desirable climates, so what better way to enjoy it than on its most famous shoreline, Bondi Beach? Here you’ll find a kilometre of golden sands and clear waters that are just perfect for spending time relaxing with the family or catching some waves with the country’s famous surf crowd? If you’re longing for some sunshine.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne
The Royal Botanic gardens attract more than 1.6 million visitors every year and is one of Melbourne’s most treasured attractions. From serene lakes to wildlife sanctuaries and an abundance of plant life, the Gardens are the perfect place to while away a day with the family. There are plenty of tours departing from the Observatory Gate every day and along the way you’ll run in to some of Australia’s most famous animals including cockatoos, kookaburras, black swans, eels and bell birds.
Kids will love exploring the plant tunnels and bamboo forest in the enchanting Ian Potter Children’s Garden while adults will want to head to the award-winning Gardens Shop to pick up a souvenir. During the summer months the Gardens even hold outdoor cinema events, theatre performances and regular exhibitions.
