3 day itinerary for Drive From Melbourne To Cairns Australia

Itinerary

A road trip from Melbourne to Cairns is an amazing adventure that will take you through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in Australia. Here's a suggested itinerary for your 25-day trip:

Day 1: Melbourne to Albury

Start your journey early in the morning and drive north towards Albury, a charming city located on the border between Victoria and New South Wales. Along the way, you can stop at the historic town of Beechworth, known for its gold rush heritage and beautiful architecture. Once you arrive in Albury, take a stroll along the Murray River and visit the [Albury Botanic Gardens](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Albury%20Botanic%20Gardens&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround").

Day 2: Albury to Canberra

Today, you'll drive east towards Canberra, the capital city of Australia. On the way, make a stop at the picturesque town of Gundagai, famous for its historic bridges and beautiful countryside. In Canberra, visit the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, and the National Gallery of Australia.

Day 3: Canberra to Sydney

After breakfast, hit the road and head north towards Sydney, one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in Australia. Along the way, you can stop at the coastal town of Wollongong and enjoy the stunning beaches and scenic views. Once you arrive in Sydney, take a walk around Circular Quay and the Opera House, and explore the bustling streets of the city center.

Day 4-5: Sydney

Spend the next two days exploring all that Sydney has to offer. Visit the iconic Bondi Beach, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and take a ferry ride to Manly Beach. You can also check out the Taronga Zoo, the Royal Botanic Garden, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Day 6: Sydney to Port Macquarie

Today, you'll drive north towards Port Macquarie, a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and wildlife. Along the way, make a stop at the Hunter Valley wine region and enjoy some of Australia's best wines. Once you arrive in Port Macquarie, visit the Koala Hospital and take a walk along the scenic coastal trail.

Day 7: Port Macquarie to Byron Bay

After breakfast, hit the road and drive north towards Byron Bay, a laid-back beach town known for its surf culture and bohemian vibe. Along the way, make a stop at the picturesque town of Coffs Harbour and visit the Big Banana amusement park. In Byron Bay, take a surf lesson, relax on the beach, and explore the local markets and shops.

Day 8-9: Byron Bay

Spend the next two days exploring all that Byron Bay has to offer. Visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse, go kayaking with dolphins, and hike through the rainforest to Minyon Falls. You can also check out the local music scene and enjoy some of the best food and drinks in the area.

Day 10: Byron Bay to Brisbane

Today, you'll drive north towards Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland. Along the way, make a stop at the Gold Coast and enjoy the beautiful beaches and theme parks. Once you arrive in Brisbane, take a walk around South Bank and visit the Gallery of Modern Art.

Day 11-12: Brisbane

Spend the next two days exploring all that Brisbane has to offer. Visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, climb the Story Bridge, and take a ferry ride along the Brisbane River. You can also check out the local markets and restaurants and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Day 13: Brisbane to Noosa

After breakfast, hit the road and drive north towards Noosa, a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches and national park. Along the way, make a stop at the Australia Zoo, founded by the late Steve Irwin. Once you arrive in Noosa, take a walk around the national park and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Day 14-15: Noosa

Spend the next two days exploring all that Noosa has to offer. Visit the Eumundi Markets, go surfing or stand-up paddleboarding, and hike through the national park to the Fairy Pools. You can also check out the local restaurants and bars and enjoy some of the best seafood in the area.

Day 16: Noosa to Hervey Bay

Today, you'll drive north towards Hervey Bay, a charming coastal town known for its whale watching tours and beautiful beaches. Along the way, make a stop at the historic town of Maryborough and visit the heritage-listed buildings. Once you arrive in Hervey Bay, take a whale watching tour and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean.

Day 17: Hervey Bay to Rockhampton

After breakfast, hit the road and drive north towards Rockhampton, a historic city located on the banks of the Fitzroy River. Along the way, make a stop at the Capricorn Caves and explore the underground limestone formations. Once you arrive in Rockhampton, visit the Botanic Gardens and the Heritage Village.

Day 18: Rockhampton to Airlie Beach

Today, you'll drive north towards Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Along the way, make a stop at the beautiful town of Yeppoon and enjoy the stunning beaches and coastal views. Once you arrive in Airlie Beach, take a boat tour to the Whitsunday Islands and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.

Day 19-20: Airlie Beach

Spend the next two days exploring all that Airlie Beach has to offer. Visit the Great Barrier Reef, go snorkeling or scuba diving, and hike through the rainforest to Cedar Creek Falls. You can also check out the local restaurants and bars and enjoy some of the best seafood in the area.

Day 21: Airlie Beach to Townsville

After breakfast, hit the road and drive north towards Townsville, a vibrant city located on the coast of North Queensland. Along the way, make a stop at the Bowen Mango Farm and enjoy some of the best mangoes in Australia. Once you arrive in Townsville, visit the Strand and the Reef HQ Aquarium.

Day 22: Townsville to Cairns

Today, you'll drive north towards Cairns, the final destination of your road trip. Along the way, make a stop at the beautiful town of Mission Beach and enjoy the stunning beaches and rainforest views. Once you arrive in Cairns, visit the Cairns Esplanade and the Cairns Botanic Gardens.

Day 23-24: Cairns

Spend the next two days exploring all that Cairns has to offer. Visit the Daintree Rainforest, go bungee jumping or skydiving, and take a boat tour to the Great Barrier Reef. You can also check out the local markets and restaurants and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Day 25: Departure

On your last day, return your rental car and catch your flight back home.