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Australia has 6 states and two territories. It's impossible to say which you should visit and which you shouldn't. Every state has its own charm and natural beauty. The best way to see Australia is to be there for a few months. For those going for a short span of time, it's best to decide beforehand what you want to see and do. Here's a list of every state and sightseeing attractions that shouldn't be missed.
Canberra: Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Consisting mainly of Canberra and its surrounding areas. The capital is a calm planned city, and its architecture, landscaping and surrounding parks are a pleasure to see. Nothing stunning and amazing in this territory, so if you don't have time and need to cut down on places, then give this one a pass. See Canberra.
New South Wales (NSW):
This is the place the Europeans finally decided to harbour in, so it must be something special. Sydney, and nearby Botany Bay, is one of the most stunning places in Australia. The Snowy Mountains National Park is ideal for skiing and trekking. The Blue Mountains, near Sydney, are as blue as they sound and as beautiful. Miles upon miles of coastal beaches run on the eastern coast, northern rainforests, and the wide expanse of the bush will keep you busy. Definitely go there. See New South Wales.
Northern Territory (NT):
This is the real Australia where explorers came in search of natural splendors and found them. Uluru or Ayers Rock is the most identifiable one. World Heritage Site- Kakadu National Park is another one, with wetlands and stunning flora and fauna. NT is also where the aboriginal cultural heritage is most prominent. Rock sites at Kakadu National Park and aboriginal owned and run tours of Amhem Land and Uluru give a taste of the real McCoy. This is Australia. Not to be missed. See Northern Territory.
Queensland:
It does justice to its name. With the Great Barrier Reef and many water activities off its east coast and rainforests, beaches, island resorts, small towns and even an inland desert defining the landscape, Queensland is certainly a place fit for a queen. It's cattle country and remote Cape York Peninsula is worth a look. Queensland is also the place for water sports – surfing, sailing, water-skiing, sailboarding and big game fishing.
South Australia (SA):
Crocodile Dundee probably lived here. Bushwalking and stunning scenery are aplenty here in the Flinder's Ranges. The real taste of the Australian outback can only be had by walking along famous tracks in the northern part of the state. The opal-mining town of Coober Pedy where people live in underground houses should satisfy anyone’s craving for the unusual. For those into wines, Australia's finest wineries are in the Barossa Valley. See South Australia.
Tasmania:
This island off the coast of Australia is best known for its role in the convict era. It still preserves a rich heritage of the era. Its wilderness and the world heritage site of Cradle Mountain - Lake St. Claire are popular with bush-walkers.
Victoria:
Famous for it’s Grampian Range with its bushwalks, beauty and legends. Other attractions include the snowfields and forests of the Victorian Alps. Fairy penguins at Phillip Island are enchanting. Restored gold-mining townships tell a great deal about the era. Travelling down the Great Ocean Road along the coast, is a fascinating way to travel. Australia, without stopping over at Melbourne, would be incomplete.
Western Australia (WA):
Probably the most remote, so the least visited part of Australia. It’s got vast open spaces, huge eucalyptus forests, the Karijini National Park and the Bungle Bungle National Park in the rugged Kimberly. A whole lot is on offer for adventure and wildlife enthusiasts. The port city of Fremantle is an interesting place to visit. Check it out.
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