7-Day Australia East Coast Tour Packages

Insider tips: Recommended 7-day Australia East Coast tour itineraries

Compiled by

MelissaAustralia East Coast travel expert at TourRadar

• 5 Days in Queensland's Scenic Rim, incl. Lamington and Mount Barney

  The 5-day coastal route spans 6 key sites, from UNESCO-listed Lamington to Tamborine's Curtis Falls. Volcanic paths wind through Mount Mitchell, Aboriginal culture comes alive at Mount Barney, with hidden rockpools dotting the Lower Portals track.

  

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  • Day 1

    Brisbane to Lamington National Park

    Leave Brisbane at 9:30 AM and drive to UNESCO-listed Lamington National Park. Take on the West Canungra Creek circuit through ancient rainforest with multiple creek crossings. Bring extra water for Queensland's humid conditions. A recent visitor shared: "The morning mist through the rainforest canopy was magical, but wear shoes with good grip as the rocks near the waterfalls get really slick."

    
  • Day 2

    Mount Cordeaux Challenge

    Visit Main Range National Park to climb Mount Cordeaux. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the summit viewpoint. The track takes you past an old gold mine before opening up to spectacular Darling Downs views. Bring warm layers for the cool rainforest sections at higher altitudes. After lunch try the easier Rainforest Circuit with its Lake Moogerah views.

    
  • Day 3

    Mount Mitchell Summit

    Start early to climb Mount Mitchell's steep volcanic peak before the midday heat. The trail winds through mountain heath and rainforest. Keep an eye out for peregrine falcons soaring overhead. In the evening relax at your eco-lodge with wine and cheese while watching the sunset over Mount Barney. Book this sunset experience early since spots fill up quickly.

    
  • Day 4

    Mount Barney Aboriginal Heritage

    Start with a First Nations smoking ceremony and cultural walk to Yellow Pinch lookout. Later tackle the Lower Portals track with its thigh-deep creek crossings. Bring quick-dry clothes and waterproof bags for your electronics. The rough track leads to beautiful rockpools. End your day with a traditional Australian BBQ at the homestead.

    
  • Day 5

    Tamborine National Park

    Explore Queensland's oldest national park on your final day. Walk the Curtis Falls track as it changes from eucalyptus forest to rainforest. The Palm Grove circuit showcases impressive strangler figs and unique fungi. These morning walks are easier than previous days but still need proper hiking shoes. Head back to Brisbane arriving around 4 PM.

    

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• 7 Day Australia East Coast Itinerary, incl. Sydney and Byron Bay

  The Australian coastline beckons for 7 days, from Sydney's Harbour to Spot X Surf Camp in Arrawarra, Byron Bay's beaches, and Brisbane's Daisy Hill Koala Centre. Four unique destinations offer surf lessons and wildlife encounters.

  

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  • Days 1-2

    Sydney

    Start your East Coast adventure in Sydney with two full days to explore Australia's largest city. "Taking the ferry to Manly Beach was perfect - got amazing city views and found this incredible acai bowl place recommended by our guide." Visit The Rocks district early morning to avoid crowds and do the iconic Coogee to Bondi coastal walk which takes 2-3 hours. Book your Sydney Opera House tickets online before you go. Prices range from $43-185 USD and popular times often sell out.

    
  • Days 3-4

    Spot X Surf Camp, Arrawarra

    Take the 9-hour train ride north to Arrawarra. Pack light since there's a strict one-bag policy and excess baggage costs AUD 15. You'll stay in unique teepee-style rooms at Spot X Surf Camp. The morning surf lesson is short at under an hour in the water. Want more time? Budget for extra lessons. You can join guided bush walks with indigenous guides in the afternoon to learn about native plants. "The teepee accommodation was so cool, and the surf instructors were really patient with beginners," one traveler shared.

    
  • Days 5-6

    Byron Bay

    Byron Bay is a 3-hour drive away. Start your visit with a walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse, Australia's easternmost point and a prime spot for whale watching in season. The town is easy to explore on foot with plenty of surf shops and organic cafes. Stay at Wake Up hostel for free surfboard rentals to practice what you learned. Looking for more adventure? Try dolphin kayaking or skydiving for around $409 USD. Bring water and sun protection for the morning lighthouse walk it gets quite humid.

    
  • Day 7

    Brisbane via Daisy Hill

    The final 4-hour drive takes you to Brisbane with a stop at Daisy Hill Koala Centre. While wild koala sightings aren't guaranteed the rescue center offers reliable viewing opportunities. Your tour wraps up in Brisbane afternoon. "Check out Southbank and Queen Street after dark - the city really comes alive," suggests one traveler who extended their stay.

    

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• 5 Days in Sydney, incl. City Center and Blue Mountains

  Sydney serves as the hub for this five-day East Coast adventure, showcasing UNESCO sites and natural wonders. Bondi Beach, Blue Mountains' Three Sisters, and harbor cruises highlight the journey. Four nights' accommodation with guided excursions costs approx. $160 daily.

  

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  • Day 1

    Arrival & CBD Orientation

    Get settled in Sydney's central business district after checking into your accommodation. The ADGE Hotel in Surry Hills puts you close to Hyde Park and Oxford Street. Skip the taxi and take the train from the airport to Central Station instead. It costs about $20 USD and helps you avoid Sydney's busy afternoon traffic.

    
  • Day 2

    Sydney Highlights Tour

    Start your day at 8:30 AM before the tourist crowds arrive. Your morning covers the Opera House and Harbour Bridge followed by The Rocks, Sydney's historic district. Take a 4-hour Sydney Harbour cruise in the afternoon with lunch included. Want the best photos? Grab a seat on the port (left) side of the boat for perfect Opera House shots.

    
  • Day 3

    Blue Mountains Expedition

    The Blue Mountains run about 10°C cooler than Sydney so bring some warm layers. You'll drive 2 hours west stopping at a wildlife park to see koalas and kangaroos. Get to Echo Point lookout early to see the Three Sisters before the crowds show up. The Scenic World walk can get slippery so wear good hiking shoes. You'll be back in Sydney by early evening.

    
  • Day 4

    Opera House & Bondi

    The Opera House backstage tour starts at 7 AM but you'll get exclusive access before regular tours begin. After that take bus 333 from Circular Quay to spend your afternoon at Bondi Beach, about 45 minutes away. One traveler notes: "The coastal walk from Bondi to Bronte is stunning at sunset, but bring a windbreaker - the ocean breeze gets chilly even in summer."

    
  • Day 5

    Departure Day

    Got a late flight? Store your bags at Central Station and check out Surry Hills. Start at Bourke Street Bakery when they open at 7 AM for their famous sausage rolls. The T8 Airport Line runs every 10 minutes but give yourself 45 minutes to reach the international terminal during morning rush hour.

    

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