Your Koalas & Kangaroos vacation package includes:

Day 3 - Arrival Sydney
Arrive in Sydney this morning. Your vacation package includes a shuttle transfer to your downtown hotel, and this allows you to get a first glimpse at the city in the beautiful morning light. Also included for your stay in Sydney is a half-day guided tour of the city as well as a harbor cruise. These tours may be taken at your leisure, over the next couple of days.

Days 4 & 5 - in Sydney
Sydney richly deserves its reputation as one of the world’s most spectacular cities, and you have ample time to explore it at your own pace. Walk through the historic Rocks district, with the former maritime buildings converted into interesting boutiques and cafes, perhaps have a seafood meal while sitting out on one of the waterfront restaurants or spend some time at one of the interesting museums. Many of these portray the art and heritage of Australia’s native Aboriginal people – a culture that dates back many thousands of years. Landmarks like the famous Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge are easily accessible and well worth the visit.

Day 6 - Sydney to Canberra
This morning, make your way to the car rental depot, located in the downtown area. Pick up your rental car. As you travel through the scenic Australian countryside, pass by large Australian sheep and cattle ranches and quaint country towns. After arriving in Canberra, Australia’s capital, take time to see the highlights like the the Australian War Memorial, the futuristic Parliament House, the fascinating architecture of Embassies of different countries of the world, the National Gallery, Lake Burley Griffin and Captain Cook’s Memorial Fountain. Spend the night in Canberra. The drive takes approx 3 ½ hrs inland, or around 5½ hrs along the coast via the Royal National Park.

Day 7 - on Country Roads
Leave Canberra towards Bateman’s Bay, located on the Pacific Coast. Then continue south along the scenic coast, famous for its surf beaches, quaint towns with names like Moruya, Naoorma and Bega, until you reach Merimbula where you will be spending the night. The drive takes approx. 4 hours.

Day 8  - on Country Roads
Head inland, crossing the state line into Victoria. Take your time driving, taking in the beautiful green countryside, magnificent vistas, mountain scenery and historic villages. Arrive in Lake’s Entrance, a picturesque and popular vacation spot, located on the Southern Coast. Spend one night at Lake’s Entrance. The drive takes approx. 3½ hrs.

Day 9  - Vineyards & Wineries
Heading further inland, arrive in the Yarra Valley wine country, home for some of Australia’s famous wines. If you are a wine enthusiast, go vineyard hopping, where you will be spending the night. Driving time is approx. 4 hrs.

Day 10 - Melbourne arrival
Today it is only a short drive from Yarra Valley to Melbourne (approx. 1 ½ hrs). You will have time for some detours – or a visit to the Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary to get in touch with Australia’s ‘locals’. After arrival Melbourne return your rental car at the downtown office (before 6pm, or the next morning). You won’t need a car in Melbourne, where many sights are within walking distance and public transportation is convenient. Spend the next three nights in Melbourne.

Days11 & 12  - Melbourne
For the next couple of days, explore Melbourne at your leisure. Known for its old-world charm, manicured gardens and Victorian architecture, Melbourne is a lovely city to explore. Visit the Royal Botanic and Fitzroy Gardens, the colorful Italian quarter of Carlton or the fashionable suburb of Toorak, full of trendy boutiques and great restaurants.

At the Sydney Opera House

Enjoy the countryside