tourist map of australia with cities

Interactive Map Of Australia

Note: This article contains an affiliate link to Hema Maps. If you click through and make a purchase, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Looking To Plan Your Next Outback Adventure?

Use our interactive map to plan your next holiday.

All the information you need to plan your next road trip. And… we’ll keep adding places whenever we add articles.

How to use our Interactive Map:

Zoom in and out to your places of interest. Click on a blue place marker. Then click on the link in the Description for links to our articles. Tip: Click on the “[ ]” icon (top right corner) for a larger map.

And if you’re looking for high quality paper or digital maps, Hema Maps have a huge selection to choose from.

And lastly, leave a comment below if you need help. We’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

6 thoughts on “Interactive Map Of Australia”

hi there thanks for the information and advice 🙂

Any time! Glad it was helpful. Cheers, Andrew

We have only recently added a Board on Pinterest – and we have thoroughly enjoyed your posts which are both informative and inspiring – Thanks again Andrew & Peta – you have helped us add a personal touch to our Board and hope to continue sharing your life with our friends and followers for many years. Chris and Barry Napper

Hi Chris and Barry,

Thanks for the feedback and we’re glad you’re enjoying this website! Cheers, Andrew & Peta

Is there a way to save the map to you home page or a link or do we have to keep this email to get to it ?

Yes, you can save this map to the home page on your phone in the same way you save any other web pages. On a desktop, you can save it to favourites, your reading list or bookmark it. Exactly how you do this depends on the phone or computer’s operating system.

Cheers, Andrew

Leave a comment Cancel reply

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The Wanderbug

Travel blog.

The 25 Best Places in Australia to Visit (+ What To Do & Map)

Australia is a country of superlatives. From the oldest living rainforest in the world, to the most isolated capital city, to some of the best wine regions in the world, there is a dizzying diversity of experiences waiting for travellers to Australia. The best places in Australia to visit range from the Great Barrier Reef & the Daintree Rainforest to the Great Ocean Road, from Sydney and Melbourne and Brisbane, to charming smaller capitals like Adelaide and Hobart. You can’t talk about the best places to visit in Australia without mentioning at least a few of the country’s dazzling islands and unspoiled national parks, like the Whitsundays, Wineglass Bay & Freycinet National Park, Moreton Island and Wilsons Promontory. Uluru is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Australia, but I’ll have to wait until my first visit (hopefully this winter!) to add it to my list. I’ve lived in Australia for nearly my whole life, and have visited everywhere on this list. There is always more to discover!

For each of the best places to visit in Australia, I’ve recommended the best things to do in each destination & some tips on where to stay, and how to get there.

If you’re planning your first trip to Australia, check out my itinerary for 2 Weeks in Australia for First Time Visitors or my 1 Month Australia Itinerary .

Map of The Best Places to Visit in Australia

1. the gold coast, 2. melbourne, 4. barossa valley, 5. freycinet national park, 6. brisbane, 7. cairns & great barrier reef, 9. the whitsundays, 10. the great ocean road, 11. perth, fremantle & rottnest island, 7. mornington peninsula, 12. adelaide, 13. the goldfields, 14. grampians national park (gariwerd), 15. townsville, 16. adelaide hills, 17. mclaren vale & fleurieu peninsula, 18. sunshine coast, 19. wilsons promontory, 20. launceston & the tamar valley, 21. waterfall way, nsw, 22. murray river & coorong, sa, 23. high country victoria, 24. byron bay, 25. moreton island.

How to use this map:

Click the white button in the top left corner of the map to see the list of locations, then click on any location to see it highlighted on the map. Click on the top right corner of the map to open a larger version in a new tab. You can also add this map to your Google Maps.

The Gold Coast is Australia’s most famous beach town, and a thriving city in southeast Queensland. The Gold Coast is home to miles of beautiful, deep sandy beaches and excellent surf conditions. 

Surfers Paradise is the most famous neighbourhood on the Gold Coast, and the most touristy, but you can find a much more laidback pace with equally beautiful beaches in Broadbeach, Burleigh , Mermaid Beach & Coolangatta.

What to do?

• Beach hop at the best beaches on the Gold Coast
• The short but steep hike in Burleigh Heads National Park
• Explore pristine Springbrook National Park (full day trip)
• Go whale watching between June-November

Where to stay

• QT Gold Coast is a fun, design-led hotel chain with loads of personality.
• The Langham is luxurious hotel stay, located on the border of Surfers Paradise & Broadbeach

How to get there

• Fly to the Gold Coast’s airport, Coolangatta Airport (OOL)
• Drive from Brisbane, it is approximately 100km south of Brisbane and a 60-120 min drive depending on traffic
• Alternatively, take the train from Brisbane (Roma St) to Robina or Helensvale & then catch a cab

Melbourne has long been considered Australia’s capital of culture, food, shopping & sport, and now it’s overtaken Sydney to become the largest city in Australia. Melbourne has strong European influences, which are especially evident in its cafe culture, diverse food scene and excellent, large food markets. Melbourne is best known for its vibrant laneways and hidden bars, cafes and restaurants, ever-changing street art, obsession with good coffee and its fervour for the AFL (footy), with nine teams based in Melbourne (half the league!). Northside neighbourhoods like Fitzroy and Collingwood are frequently recognised as some of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world.

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria, and has the added benefit of offering a variety of day trip and side trip destinations which are very accessible – often less than a 2 hour drive.

• Visit the South Melbourne Market
• Visit Melbourne’s most iconic neighbourhoods : Carlton, Fitzroy & St Kilda
• Explore Melbourne CBD’s laneways & street art
• Visit the NGV , the best art gallery of in Australia
• QT Melbourne – A fun design-led hotel in the heart of the CBD
• Carlton & Fitzroy – Melbourne’s coolest neighbourhoods
• Fly to Melbourne International Airport. 
• Melbourne is a 2 hour flight from Sydney &  2.5 hour flight from Brisbane

Sydney is often mistaken as Australia’s capital city, and it’s easy to see why. Located on the east coast, Sydney has some of the most enviable natural real estate in the world, built around Darling Harbour and with dozens of coves, bays and beaches. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in the world, when you’re along the harbour or the coast.

A trip to Sydney is on most international visitors’ itinerary, and for good reason. Architectural marvels like the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge make a stroll around Circular Quay a jaw-dropper, Bondi Beach really is as beautiful as the hype leads you to believe, and there are dozens of scenic walks and viewpoints around the city to enjoy.

• Bondi Beach – Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk
• Ogle the Opera House & Sydney Harbour
• Take the Manly Ferry to Manly, for an iconic crossing of the harbour
• Swim in Sydnye’s famous ocean pools, like Icebergs in Bondi, Wylie’s Pools and Bronte Pools
• The CBD is the best base for exploring a range of tourist sites
• Bondi is beautiful with lots of Air BnB options, but it’s inconveniently located for public transport, so you might rely on Ubers to get to other parts of town
• Fly to Sydney International Airport
• Sydney is a 1 hour flight from Brisbane & a 90 minute flight from Melbourne

The Barossa Valley is Australia’s oldest & most prestigious wine region, located just an hour’s drive from the state capital, Adelaide, in South Australia. There are more than 150 wineries in the Barossa Valley , 80 of which have cellar doors (tasting rooms) that are open to the public. Some of the grandest wineries are housed in magnificent chateau estates, giving it a European feel, in an Australian landscape.

The Barossa is famous for its signature, bold Shiraz, but don’t miss out on trying a Barossa GSM, my favourite wine from the region!

• Barossa Valley wineries such as Seppeltsfield , St Hugo and Yalumba
• Barossa offers spectacular restaurants, my favourites are Maggie Beer’s Farm Eatery & Vintners Bar & Grill 
• Get a new appreciation for fortified wines (port), one of the Barossa’s specialties
• Slip into the neighbouring Eden Valley for some world class whites
• Small towns like Angaston, Tanunda or Nurioopta are well located for winery hopping and have a range of B&B style accommodation
• Fly to Adelaide & hire a car to drive to the Barossa Valley, which is a 60 minute drive from Adelaide

Freycinet National Park is located on the east coast of Tasmania , Australia’s island state. Freycinet is most famous for the perfectly curved Wineglass Bay and the dramatic pink granite mountain range, The Hazards, but there are plenty of beautiful views, beaches and bays to discover.

Stay in a cabin at Freycinet Lodge for the best access to the national park, and for stunning views at breakfast, lunch and dinner from the lodge’s deck and restaurants.

• Hike to Wineglass Bay Lookout & Wineglass Bay beach , a steep but rewarding hike 
• Honeymoon Bay (no hiking required)
• Experienced hikers can try more challenging trails, we decided to skip Mt Amos because I’m very scared of heights, but it’s popular with experienced hikers
• Tasmanian wine tasting flight at Freycinet Lodge
• Freycinet Lodge
• Coles Bay is the small town outside the park, which has a wider range of accommodation options
• Fly to Launceston & drive for 2 hours 20 minutes (we went this way!)
• Alternatively, fly to Hobart and drive for 2 hours 30 mins

Sunny, sub-tropical Brisbane is the fastest growing city in Australia, and located in southeast Queensland. Brisbane is my hometown, and I love returning several times every year.

Australia’s third largest city has had a major glow up in the last decade, and is preparing to host the 2032 Olympics. A few days in Brisbane is best spent enjoying the laidback lifestyle and great outdoors, even in the heart of the city. Stroll along the Southbank Promenade along the Brisbane River, enjoy dinner under the Storey Bridge on the riverfront at Howard Smith Wharves, hop on a City Cat (high speed ferry) to zip up and down the river, browse Australia’s best designers on leafy James Street and explore the pretty Roma Street Gardens (where we got married!).

• Drink & dine on Howard Smith Wharves , Brisbane’s beautiful riverfront precinct
• Visit the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMa)
• Shop & stroll along James St, New Farm’s leafy lifestyle precinct
• Walk or jog along the riverfront through Southbank Parklands
• Fly to Brisbane International Airport
• Brisbane is a 1 hour flight from Sydney and a 2-2.5 hour flight from Melbourne
• The Calile , New Farm – An internationally acclaimed design hotel (#12 on World’s 50 Best), and a chic oasis in the heart of James Street. We stayed here for a week before our wedding, it was heaven!
• Hotel X , Fortitude Valley – A luxury design hotel, just a few blocks from the trendy Howard Smith Wharves precinct. Love the rooftop pool & restaurant here! The included a la carte breakfast is one of the best
• Voco Hotel , Brisbane – Well located for exploring the city or crossing the Victoria Bridge to Southbank

Queensland ’s ancient tropics are home to some of the greatest natural treasures in the world; The Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. 

Snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef is a bucket-list experience for millions, and the easiest place to do this from is Cairns, the largest city in the Great Barrier Reef region . Book a day trip to the Outer Reef to experience one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest living rainforest in the world, and is a must-visit in the region. Take a guided tour on a day trip from Cairns to get the most out of your trip.

Cairns is a popular base, but for a more relaxing holiday destination stay in stylish Port Douglas or on the beachfront at pretty Palm Cove.

• Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef
• Island hop to Green Island & Fitzroy Island
• Explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest
• Day trip to the mountain top, rainforest village of Kuranda 
• Palm Cove – a popular beach town, with a wide range of accommodation and beautiful beaches
• Port Douglas – A chic holiday destination with a range of high end resort style accommodation
• Cairns – The largest town in the area, with a wide range of amenities
• Fly to Cairns Airport
• Palm Cove is 30 minutes from Cairns Airport, transfers are available
• Port Douglas is 1 hour from Cairns Airport

Hobart is Australia’s smallest and southernmost state capital, located on the south coast of the island state, Tasmania . Hobart is a real charmer, with a small, walkable historic centre perched on the waterfront. Tasmania is renowned for its pristine natural environment, which includes some of the cleanest air and purest water – resulting in some of the most spectacular seafood, whiskey and wine you’ll find. Tasmania’s best restaurants are concentrated in Hobart, so make a few restaurant reservations before your visit.

• Visit MoNa , the controversial Museum of Old & New Art which put Hobart back on the map. Take the MoNA ferry for the most scenic trip to the museum.
• Coffee & breakfast at the Salamanca Markets , a regular market in historic Salamanca Place
• Explore pretty Battery Point, one of Hobart’s most historic neighbourhoods
• Sample world class whiskey at Lark Distillery , which has quickly made a name for itself on the international stage
• Feast on Tasmania’s spectacular seafood
• Hadley’s Orient Hotel is a charming, historic hotel in the Hobart CBD
• Somerset on the Pier in Hobart offers apartment-style accomm overlooking the marina
• Fly to Hobart. Hobart is a one hour flight from Melbourne

The Whitsundays are a dreamy archipelago of 74 tropical islands, off the coast of north Queensland. Whether you’re sailing, taking a scenic flight or island hopping, the Whitsundays is one of the most beautiful island chains in Australia.

The most popular islands to stay on are Hamilton Island, Hayman Island and Daydream Island, with a range of accommodation from family friendly to high end luxury. The crown in the Whitsundays crown is Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island, an uninhabited island with sparkling white sand beaches, which is a must-do day trip from wherever you stay.

• Day trip to Whitehaven Beach with Cruise Whitsundays
• Swim at sheltered Catseye Beach on Hamilton Island
• Hamilton Island has a range of accommodation options, including luxury resort qualia
• Hayman Island is home to Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort
• Daydream Island has a range of accommodation options, including budget and family friendly options
• Airlie Beach on the mainland has a range of accommodation, including hostels
• Fly to Proserpine & book a transfer to Airlie Beach
• You can book boat or helicopter transfers to most of the islands with accommodation

The Great Ocean Road is Australia’s #1 scenic drive, and stretches for more than 200km along the south coast of Victoria from Torquay to Port Fairy. The most famous landmark on the Great Ocean Road is the Twelve Apostles, a series of freestanding pillars that are crumbling into the sea. There is so much more to see along the Great Ocean Road though, with a number of other scenic viewpoints in Port Campbell National Park, and pleasant beach towns along the journey. In the hinterland, take the back rounds to chase waterfalls in Great Otway National Park. The Great Ocean Road is one of the best places in Australia for an epic road trip.

Many tour operators offer long day tours from Melbourne to the Twelve Apostles, the most famous natural landmark on the Great Ocean Road, but I’d strongly recommend taking 3-4 days to explore the region.

• See the Twelve Apostles & explore Port Campbell National Park
• Take in the views from Mariners Lookout, in Apollo Bay
• Spot koalas snoozing in the gum trees in Kennett River
• Chase waterfalls in Great Otway National Park
• Lorne Hotel in Lorne – A historic boutique hotel, that has been recently renovated. Lorne is my favourite town on the Great Ocean Road
• Apollo Bay – A range of accommodation options in Apollo Bay, which is approximately halfway along the Great Ocean Road
• Lorne is a 2 hour drive from Melbourne 
• Apollo Bay is a 2 hr 40 minute drive from Melbourne
• You’ll need your own wheels on the Great Ocean Road, and will spend time driving each day to explore the best of the region

Perth is the capital of Western Australia , and is located on the southwest coast of Australia, on the edge of the Indian Ocean. Visiting Perth is a 3-for-1 deal, with the charming, historic town of Fremantle and idyllic Rottnest Island less than an hour away from the city. It’s the best place in Australia to visit for an introduction to Western Australia.

There are 19 sandy beaches in Perth, the most famous of which is Cottesloe (also my personal favourite!). Spend a morning at the beach, the afternoon taking in the views over the city from the sprawling King’s Park and be back in the city for dinner overlooking the Swan River.

Fremantle is a perfect day or half day trip, with wide streets and immaculately preserved heritage buildings making it feel a little bit like a movie set. 

Rottnest Island, just off the coast of Perth, deserves a day of its own. Hire bikes and cycle between the islands stunning beaches and coves, like Parakeet Bay, Little Salmon Bay and The Basin.

• Beach hop in Perth at Cottesloe Beach & City Beach
• Spend a day in Fremantle, and visit the new Gage Road Brewery on the waterfront for lunch
• Spend a day cycling between beaches on Rottnest Island & keep your eyes peeled for the elusive quokka!
• Quay in Perth is well located near the waterfront
• Accommodation on Rottnest is available, but it notoriously hard to secure a reservation due to its popularity – good luck!
• Fly to Perth
• Catch the train from Perth to Fremantle, which takes less than 30 minutes
• Catch a ferry from Perth to Rottnest Island

The Mornington Peninsula is Melbourne’s weekend getaway destination of choice, located just over an hour’s drive southeast from the city. The peninsula is dotted with dozens of wineries and fringed with pretty beaches and dramatic coastal walks, creating the perfect recipe for a relaxing weekend away. This is one of the best places in Australia to visit for a weekend of wineries and beaches, a rare combination!

• Visit the best wineries on the Mornington Peninsula
• Spend a morning on Safety Beach in Droman a, a pretty beach lined with brightly coloured bathing boxes
• Hike the short but steep hike to Cape Schanc k, which I think is the most beautiful sight on the Mornington Peninsula
• Book a fancy dinner at Port Phillip Estate Dining Room or Audrey’s in Sorrento. Note that Ubers are not available late in the evening outside the main towns, so you’ll need to drive to Port Phillip Estate restaurant.
• Portsea Hotel – boutique hotel above the famous Portsea Hotel (pub). An iconic spot, and a gorgeous pub that goes off in summer
• Intercontinental Sorrento – the new Intercontinental Sorrento is a glamorous hotel destination with on-site bars and restaurants. Lovely pool area & on-site restaurant Audrey’s is divine
• Jackalope is one of the most talked about luxury hotels in Australia. It’s a perfect escape year-round, with vineyard views, a pool and hot tub
• Hire a house – Houses are available for hire all over the Peninsula, which can be a good value option for large groups

Adelaide is one of Australia’s smallest capital cities, but it punches above its weight in food & wine, thanks to its proximity to some of the best wine regions in the country. The capital of South Australi a has a small and walkable CBD, with the highest concentration of excellent bars and restaurants around Leigh Street and Peel Street.

Don’t miss Penfolds Magill Estate, which is a short drive from the city. This is part of Penfolds original estate, and it’s the best place to experience Australia’s most prestigious wine brand.

• Visit the Harry Potter-esque Mortlock Wing at the State Library of South Australia
• Take the tour & tasting at Penfolds Magill Estate
• Get a roving breakfast at Adelaide Central Market
• Adelaide’s CBD is compact and walkable, which makes it a convenient location to stay

The Victorian Goldfields is a popular region north of Melbourne, and the stage for the 19th century Gold Rush that made Melbourne the richest city in the world for a time. The influx of wealth made the towns in the Goldfields some of the most beautiful country towns in Australia, and the largest towns Bendigo and Ballarat are beautifully preserved to this day. The Goldfields is one of the best places to visit in Australia for experiencing charming country towns,

The Goldfields also has its own wine region, which is particularly renowned for its distinctive Heathcote Shiraz. If you’re visiting in June, head to the tiny town of Heathcote for its annual wine weekend over the Kings Birthday long weekend.

• Visit Bendigo – Wander the pretty streets, visit the Bendigo Art Gallery and book for lunch or dinner at Masons , one of my favourite regional restaurants
• Visit Ballarat – Explore the pretty Ballarat Botanical Gardens, have lunch at Mitchell Harris Wines and visit Sovereign Hill , an open air museum that recreates Ballarat during the 19th century Gold Rush
• Heathcote on Show – On the Kings Birthday Long Weekend in June, local winemakers descend on Heathcote and take over public spaces with pop up wine tastings. It’s the best wine event I’ve been to, and I’ve been several times!
• Balgownie Estate – Balgownie Estate is a winery just outside Bendigo, with gorgeous cabins. I stayed here last time we stayed in Bendigo, and loved it!

The Grampians National Park is a favourite long weekend destination for Melburnians and keen hikers, located four hours drive west of the city, in western Victoria. The Grampians is a series of five rugged sandstone ridges, which creates dramatic scenery, waterfalls and plenty of amazing hiking opportunities. You’ll need to book well in advance to get accommodation close to the entrance of the park, in Halls Gap.

• Hike to the Boronia Lookout, for one of the most iconic views of the Grampians
• Hike to Mackenzie Falls & Silverband Falls
• Visit Mt Langi Ghiran’s cellar doo r, to try The Grampians wine
• Halls Gap – Book a cottage or B&B style accommodation well in advance of your trip
• The Grampians is a 4 hour drive west of Melbourne

Townsville is the largest city in Queensland’s tropics, located halfway between Cairns and the Whitsundays. Like Cairns, Townsville is a jumping off point for the Great Barrier Reef, which stretches along the coastline of northern Queensland. You’ll find a sunny, tropical and laidback town with plenty of natural beauty within a stone’s throw of the city.

Castle Hill, just a few crucial metres off mountain classification, is a beautiful pink granite monolith that overlooks Townsville. You’ll spot it from all over the city, glowing in the sunrise and sunset light and illuminated after dark by colourful lights.

• Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef on a day trip from Townsville
• Drive up to Castle Hill to take in the beautiful views over Townsville
• Spend a day at the stunning swim up pool bar at The Ville , which overlooks the Coral Sea and has serious Santorini vibes
• Snap on a snorkel & visit the new Museum of Underwater Art
• The Strand is Townsville’s waterfront precinct, and has a range of hotel accommodation and beautiful ocean views
• South Townsville has a number of hotel options, with plenty of amenities
• Fly to Townsville Airport

The Adelaide Hills is a charming hinterland region just 30 minutes’ drive from Adelaide, in South Australia. Explore the hills to find some of Australia’s favourite winemakers like Shaw & Smith and Nepenthe, dine in cosy old pubs and shop from the farmgate at Berenberg Farms.

• Stop for lunch at The Crafers Hotel , a gorgeous, old-world gastropub which is one of my favourites in Australia
• Wine tasting at some of the best wineries in the Adelaide Hills, including Shaw + Smith, Nepenthe and Cobb’s Hill Estate
• Stop in pretty Hahndorf, a 19th century German village 
• Stock up on gourmet produce at Berenberg Farm Shop, Melba’s Chocolate Factory, Woodside Cheesewrights and Chesterfield Whisky Firm
• The Manor in Basket Range is one of South Australia’s most memorable hotel stays, with accommodation in a castle estate built in 1935
• The Adelaide Hills is a 30 minute drive from Adelaide, which has the closest airport

The Fleurieu Peninsula extends south from Adelaide in South Australia, with dramatic coastline and world class wine region in the McLaren Vale. It’s an easy day trip from Adelaide, and a morning cruising alongside the peninsula’s beaches can be followed up with lunch and an afternoon wine tasting in the rolling hills of McLaren Vale. It’s easily one of the best places in Australia to visit to experience Australia’s excellent wine regions, especially as it’s such an easy trip from a major city.

• Wineries in McLaren Vale like Coriole and progressive Alpha Box & Dice
• Admire the larger than life D’Arenberg Cube & the sculptures by Salivdor Dali before wine tasting at D’Arenberg
• Drive along the dramatic coastline & take in the view of beaches like Port Willunga, Aldinga and Noarlunga
• Have lunch or dinner at Pizzatecca in McLaren Vale
• McLaren Vale is a 45 minute drive from Adelaide

The Sunshine Coast is a coastal region in Queensland, north of Brisbane, best known for its string of beach towns, including Caloundra, Mooloolaba, Sunshine Beach and trendy Noosa. It’s one of the best places in Australia to visit for beach hopping, with 36 beaches to explore.

Head to the Sunshine Coast to spend time on the beach and in the surf, to dine on the waterfront in Noosa, or to head to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland for scenic reserves and the Glasshouse Mountains.

• Visit the best beaches on the Sunshine Coas t in Noosa, Mooloolaba, Caloundra & Kings Beach
• Hikes in Noosa National Park
• Hike the Glasshouse Mountains
• Explore the rainforests & towns in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
• Noosa is the most popular & trendy destination on the Sunshine Coast, with the crowds & price tag to match!
• Mooloolaba is family friendly, has a large beach and a range of accommodation
• Caloundra is also very family friendly and is home to pretty Kings Beach
• Fly to Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) – A small regional airport, flying here may be more expensive than flying to Brisbane airport
• Fly to Brisbane Airport, drive 1.5-2 hours to the Sunshine Coast – the only caveat is that the Bruce Highway traffic can be shocking in peak season

Wilsons Promontory National Park is a beloved national park in Gippsland, in southeast Victoria. “The Prom” as it’s known, juts into the Southern Ocean and is the southernmost point of the Australian mainland. Come for more than 80km of hiking trails, white quartz beaches, and for your chance to spot Australian wildlife including kangaroos and echidnas. It’s one of the best places in Australia to visit for stunning coastal views paired with hiking opportunities, within a close range to a major city.

More than 50,000 hectares of unspoiled National Park makes it the largest coastal wilderness in Victoria.

• Hike Mt Oberon for jaw-dropping views over the coastline
• Beach hop at Squeaky Beach, Whisky Bay and Picnic Bay
• Spot iconic Australian wildlife like emus, kangaroos and echidna
• There is a range of accommodation in Yanakie, located outside the entrance to the National Park
• Camp in Tidal River Campground, as close as you can get to the action
• Wilsons Prom is a 3 hour drive from Melbourne, which makes it a very popular long weekend & school holiday destination. 

“Lonnie” as it’s affectionately known, is on the north coast of Tasmania and the second largest town in the island state – although it is still a small town by any measure! Launceston is a very pretty town, with a lovely laid back pace. It’s a short flight from Melbourne, and a great base for exploring the nearby Tamar Valley wine region. If you’re travelling to Freycinet National Park, stop for a night in Launceston on your way to explore this charming small city.

• Visit Cataract Gorge, a beautiful scenic reserve just a 4 minute drive from Launceston’s CBD
• Wine tasting in the Tamar Valley, Tasmania’s premier wine region
• Eat really well from dawn til dusk! Bread + Butter is a great spot for breakfast and Havilah is a stylish wine bar with an excellent, tightly curated menu
• Hotel Grand Chancellor has very large, comfortable rooms & is conveniently located in the Launceston CBD
• Launceston is a 1 hour flight from Melbourne

Waterfall Way is a scenic driving route in northern New South Wales, stretching for 200km between Coffs Harbour and Armidale. It’s considered the #3 scenic drive in Australia and yet somehow it manages to fly under the radar – I think it’s one of Australia’s best kept secrets! It’s one of the best places in Australia to visit for a scenic journey filled with national parks and gorgeous waterfalls.

Waterfall Way takes you through charming country towns like Dorrigo, Armidale and Bellingen and to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Australia like Dangar Falls, Wollomombi Falls and Ebor Falls.

• Waterfalls like Ebor Falls, Dangar Falls & Wollomombi Falls
• The Skywalk over the treetops in Dorrigo National Park
• Visit Bellingen, a charming hinterland township
• Fly to Coffs Harbour
• Alternatively, drive 5-6 hours from either Brisbane or Sydney

Murray River & Coorong is a rural region in South Australia , just over an hour’s drive from Adelaide. The region is one of the best places in Australia to visit for stargazing, as it’s home to the River Murray Dark Sky Reserve, a protected area of outsanding natural darkness. The Murray River is the second-longest navigable river in the world and the longest river in Australia. It stretches through three states, but in South Australia a trip to the Murray Region can include a night spent stargazing in the River Murray Dark Sky Reserve, one of the only of its kind in Australia. 

• Stargazing at the Murray River Dark Sky Reserve
• Admire a view of the Murray River from Fosters Lookout
• Visit Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Site on a guided tour to learn about the history & culture of the First Nations owners of the land
• We stayed in the Mannum Motel , in Mannum, which is the pick up & drop off point for our Dark Sky Reserve stargazing tour
• Fly to Adelaide. Mannum is a 1 hr 15 minute drive from Adelaide. Stop in at the Adelaide Hills along the way!

High Country is a picturesque corner of regional Victoria, filled with mountains, ski fields, rivers, lakes, valleys and wine regions.

Visit the elegant, historic town of Beechworth to step back in time as you walk down its grand streets & eat lunch at the historic Tanswell’s Commercial Hotel. Spend a day or two exploring the King Valley wine region , which was settled by Italian immigrants and retains its Italian influence, producing the best prosecco in Australia.

In the south, Nagambie & Strathbogie Ranges offer a weekend of food, wine & a relaxed pace only an hour from Melbourne.

• Wine tasting in the King Valley
• Experience true country hospitality in beautiful Beechworth, stop at Tanswell’s Commercial Hotel for lunch
• Hit the slopes at the skifields on Mt Hotham , Mt Buller and Falls Creek
• See Ned Kelly’s hometown at Glenrowan
• The King Valley is a great base for a weekend of wine & cheese tasting
• Beechworth is a thriving regional centre, with well-preserved historic streets and B&B style accommodation
• Farther south, Mitchelton in Nagambie offers luxury accommodation on a winemaking estate
• Destinations in High Country are 2-4 hours drive from Melbourne

Byron Bay is one of Australia’s most enviable addresses, with a dreamy coastal location in Northern New South Wales. Close to the Queensland/NSW border, Byron is to Brisbane and the Gold Coast than Sydney, Byron Bay is an ideal day trip or weekend from these cities.

Byron Bay was once a sleepy hippie beach town, but for the past twenty years its been a hotspot for cashed up citydwellers making a seachange. It may be busy, but it’s still just as beautiful.

• Watch the sunset over the ocean at Cape Byron, the easternmost point of Australian mainland. You can drive, or hike 3.7km up to the Cape Byron lighthouse for the best views
• Go whale watching to spot migrating humpback whales between June and November
• Hit the beach at Wategos Beach, Byron Bay’s prettiest and most popular beach
• Byron Bay has a range of accommodation, from hotels and apartments to beach houses for hire
• Byron Bay is a 2 hour drive south from Brisbane

Moreton Island is the third-largest sand island in Australia, and an adventurer’s paradise. Located just off the coast of Brisbane on Australia’s east coast, Moreton Bay is a popular weekend trip from Brisbane.

• Snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks
• Picnic in Honeymoon Bay
• Swim in the Blue Lagoon
• Tangalooma Resort is the only resort style accommodation on Moreton Island
• Camping sites are available
• Houses are available for hire
• Ferries operate from Pinkenba in Brisbane to Tangalooma
• You’ll need your own 4WD (& be comfortable driving on soft sand) to be able to explore beyond Tangalooma on Moreton Island

Share this:

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)

You Might Also Like

Tell me what you think please leave a comment below cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Map of Australia with cities

In Australia, you can comfortably travel around the country by car. That means that the most detailed map of Australia will come in handy. Every traveler knows how much more comfortable and easier it is to move around a new territory if you have an atlas or a road map. So stock up on a map of Australia in English, and travel for good.

Most of the major cities are located on the coast of the mainland, and near bodies of water within the arid land.Australia is huge, with no borders to cross within it, and a map of the country will help you navigate without any risk of getting lost. You will be able to visit tourist towns, reserves, learn a lot of new things, let the map of Australia help you in this.

See reviews Enquire now

Email: [email protected]

• Download an Australian Touring Map

• Planning Your Australian Holiday

 Australian Touring Map

Our free Australia Touring & Self-Drive Map will help you plan your perfect driving route Down Under.

Pricing terms

The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price

Find the Most Visited Destinations and Hidden Gems

Whether you are a local looking for a new adventure or a traveler planning your dream trip, our website is the perfect destination for all things Australian. Australia is a vast and diverse country, known for its stunning natural landscapes, unique wildlife, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the bustling cities of Sydney and Melbourne to the rugged outback and pristine beaches, Australia has something for everyone.

We are here to help you discover the best of Australia, with insider information on where to stay, where to eat, and what to see. We have carefully curated a collection of the most exciting and authentic experiences, from hidden gem cafes to world-famous landmarks, and everything in between.

Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, we are your ultimate resource for discovering the best that Australia has to offer. So what are you waiting for? Let's start exploring!

Things to do in Australia

We specialize in creating unforgettable experiences for adventurous travelers in Australia. Australia is a vast and diverse continent, offering a wide range of thrilling outdoor activities and breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you're seeking the adrenaline rush of skydiving or the peaceful tranquility of hiking through ancient rainforests, our expert team of travel advisors can help you plan the perfect adventure itinerary. From Tasmania to Gold Coast, from sea level to the highest elevation of Mount Kosciuszko, we have something for you to do!

Unforgettable nature tours for travelers who want to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Australia. From the rugged mountains of the Great Dividing Range to the stunning coastlines of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia is home to some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. Our team will take you off the beaten path to discover hidden gems, and immerse you in the unique flora and fauna of this amazing continent. Join us as we explore the best nature tours in Australia, and discover the wonders that await you in this awe-inspiring land.

Relaxation experiences for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway in Australia. Australia offers a range of stunning locations perfect for unwinding and disconnecting from the stresses of everyday life. From idyllic beaches to tranquil rainforests and spa retreats, we have something for everyone looking for rest and rejuvenation. Our team of experienced travel advisors can help you find the perfect spot to relax and recharge, and ensure that every detail of your trip is taken care of. 

With its diverse landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and vibrant culture, Australia is the perfect destination for families looking to create lifelong memories together. Our expert team of travel advisors can help you plan a family trip that caters to everyone's interests and needs, from thrilling outdoor activities to kid-friendly attractions and educational experiences. Whether you want to explore the outback, visit the iconic Sydney Opera House, or meet kangaroos and koalas up close, we can help you create a trip that will delight and inspire every member of your family. 

Join us as we explore some of the most exciting things to do in Australia and discover why this incredible country is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers from around the world.

Real People

We believe in showcasing the real Australia, through the eyes of real people. Our team of locals, expats, and travelers have first-hand experience of the places we offer, so you can trust their recommendations and travel tips.

Because we work with local guides, hotels, and restaurants often, we are able to offer you unbeatable value and discounts. You'll get the best deals and insider access to experiences that you wouldn't find anywhere else.

Local & Tourists

We are a team of passionate locals who know Australia like the back of our hands. We pride ourselves on our insider knowledge and expertise, and we are committed to helping you experience the best of Australia in an authentic and meaningful way.

Support you can count on

We are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service every step of the way. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide support whenever you need it, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience.

Things To Know About Australia

Geography Of Australia

Australia is a large island continent located in the Southern Hemisphere. It's the sixth largest country of the world and it consists of six different states; Northern Territory, South Australia, Western Australia, New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria as well as two mainland territories, Australian Capital Territory and Jervis Bay Territory. The total land area of Australia is 7,682,300 sq km and its coastline measures 25000km long.

The northern part of Australia has tropical climates while southern parts are temperate with mild winters. The Great Barrier Reef runs along the east coast which contains a variety of marine life making it one of the most popular tourist spots in the country. There are many national parks around Australia where you can find unique wildlife species such as koalas, kangaroos and emus.

Australia also has some major cities including Sydney – the largest city and capital of New South Wales - Melbourne in Victoria , Brisbane in Queensland , Perth in Western Australia , Adelaide in South Australia . All these cities offer amazing cultural experiences for tourists and locals alike. As you can see there is much to explore when looking at geography of this wonderful country!

Climate Of Australia

The vast expanse of Australia's geography is juxtaposed with the great diversity in its climate. In the northern region, tropical conditions prevail near Papua New Guinea and Northern Territory. Further south on the continent lies The Gold Coast, a temperate zone known for its mild winters and hot summers. Central areas like Alice Springs are dominated by arid deserts while further east to the island of New Caledonia experiences subtropical climates year round.

In general, most parts of Australia experience warm temperatures throughout the summer months from December to February when highs can reach up to 40°C (104oF). Winters tend to be milder but still bring cool nights and days across much of mainland Australia as well as some snowfall in mountainous regions. Rainfalls also vary significantly across different parts of Australia ranging from heavy rains along coastal strips to dry spells inland where drought-like conditions can occur regularly.

Australia has experienced severe weather events such as extreme heatwaves or bushfires that have caused significant damage over vast areas at times due to strong winds and lack of moisture. Such disasters highlight how important it is for communities living in these regions to remain vigilant and prepared for any kind of natural hazard they may face each season. With an understanding of their local climate, Australians are better able equip themselves with knowledge about how best handle certain situations.

Population Of Australia

Australia is home to a diverse population of people, with many different backgrounds and cultures. Travelling around the country reveals this diversity in its most vivid form - from the big cities to remote outback communities. To understand Australia’s population, it’s important to look at three key factors: size, composition and distribution.

In terms of size, Australia currently has an estimated population of 25 million people. This number is expected to continue growing over the next few decades as more immigrants move into the country from overseas. The growth rate remains relatively low compared with other countries but still contributes significantly to the overall population numbers.

The composition of Australia’s population is also diversified. About 70% are born in Australia while 28% come from overseas origins such as India, China and New Zealand. In addition, almost one-third identify as Indigenous Australians or Torres Strait Islanders – descendants of pre-colonial aboriginal inhabitants who have lived on the land for thousands of years before European settlement began in 1788.

Finally, looking at geographic distribution shows that majority (68%) live in urban areas along coastal regions; only 3% reside in rural or remote locations across mainland territory. This uneven spread makes access to resources and services challenging for those living away from major metropolitan hubs like Sydney and Melbourne. Nonetheless, these far-flung places remain some of the best spots for visitors seeking an authentic Australian experience off the beaten track!

Culture Of Australia

Australia is a country with a rich and vibrant culture that has been shaped by its long history of Indigenous peoples. Like the land itself, Australia's culture is vast and varied - from traditional Aboriginal songlines to contemporary art galleries, there are limitless opportunities for exploration. The unique blend of cultures present in Australia make it an exciting place to discover new experiences.

The diverse range of cultural influences can be seen everywhere in Australian society: films, music, food, language and literature all reflect this eclectic mix. Even the nation's iconic sporting events draw on both indigenous and non-indigenous traditions. From didgeridoo performances at AFL matches to bush tucker being served up in cricket grounds, Australians celebrate their heritage through these activities.

No matter where you travel within Australia, you will find evidence of the country’s cultural diversity – whether it's attending one of the many festivals held throughout the year or simply admiring public artworks around cities and towns. With such a wealth of fascinating customs and traditions to explore, Australia certainly lives up to its reputation as ‘the lucky country’!

Wildlife Of Australia

Australia is home to a rich variety of wildlife. There are over 400 species of mammals, 800 species of birds, 300 species of lizards and more than 140 species of snakes in Australia. It's also known for its many marsupials, including koalas, kangaroos and wombats. The Australian outback is full of wild dingoes, which were introduced by Aboriginal people thousands of years ago.

In addition to land-based animals, the waters around Australia support a range of marine life. This includes whales, dolphins, sharks and other fish that can be seen during whale watching tours or when snorkeling along the coast. One of the most iconic aquatic creatures in Australia is the Great Barrier Reef – one of the world’s largest coral reefs teeming with colourful sea life such as turtles, clownfish and octopuses. List of top animals to look for: kangaroo, koala, wombat, echidna, platypus, dingo, wallaby, emu, kookaburra, goanna, crocodile, snake, lizard, turtle, dolphin, shark, and stingray or ray.

Australia has some unique conservation initiatives too such as national parks dedicated to preserving natural habitats for endangered species like the Tasmanian devil and dugong. These efforts help ensure that this beautiful country continues to thrive for generations to come. 

Economy Of Australia

Australia has a prosperous and diversified economy, which is largely driven by the service industry. It's one of the world’s largest economies in terms of gross domestic product (GDP). In recent years, it's achieved strong economic growth and low unemployment rate due to its sound macroeconomic policies.

The country is also rich in natural resources such as iron ore, coal, gold, copper and bauxite. These minerals are exported around the world and have become key drivers of Australia’s economy. Moreover, agriculture is an important sector providing employment and export opportunities for Australians. Major products include grains, meats, dairy products and wool among others.

Tourism is another major contributor to the Australian economy. The iconic sites like Sydney Opera House or Great Barrier Reef attract millions of visitors each year increasing income from tourism services significantly. This revenue provides jobs for citizens as well as additional funds for infrastructure development in local communities such as roads, schools etc.

Overall, Australia has a robust economy that can sustain itself even during times of global economic uncertainty thanks to its thriving industries and reliable sources of income from exports and tourism.

Government Of Australia

History of australia.

Australia's history is long and storied, full of tales of courage and perseverance. From its first inhabitants to the start of European settlement, it has been a land that has seen dramatic changes throughout time.

To begin with, Australia was inhabited by Indigenous Australians for an estimated 50-60 thousand years before Europeans arrived in 1788. The Aborigines were nomadic hunter-gatherers who followed the seasonal cycles of their environment. They developed unique cultures, traditions, languages and beliefs that still exist today in some form or another.

Europeans began colonizing the continent as part of British colonization efforts during the late eighteenth century. This brought about a large influx of settlers from Britain and Ireland looking for new opportunities. These people had to adjust to life on this strange new land while also learning how to live among the native peoples they encountered there. Over time, these two groups began to blend together forming what would eventually become modern day Australia.

Today, Australia is home to over 25 million people representing many different ethnicities and cultures all living side by side in relative harmony; a vibrant testament to our collective resilience as well as our capacity for adaptation and change. With such diversity at its core, it's no wonder that this country continues to be one of the most progressive places in the world.

Tourism In Australia

Australia is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. With its stunning landscapes, diverse culture and vibrant cities – it's no wonder why! From the Great Barrier Reef to Uluru (Ayers Rock), there are so many incredible places to explore in Australia. Places like Tasmania, Gold Coast, Sydney and an array of other islands in the area offer visitors unmatched beauty.

The country has something for everyone; whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there's plenty of options available. There are countless activities on offer such as surfing, hiking, kayaking and camping. Or if you're more into exploring nature, consider going whale watching on one of the many boat trips that depart daily. For those wanting an urban experience, take some time to explore cosmopolitan cities like Sydney and Melbourne with their amazing shopping scenes and delicious food offerings.

No matter what your interests may be, a holiday in Australia will leave you feeling inspired and invigorated. Whether you stay for a few days or several weeks, the point is this beautiful nation won't disappoint! And if you're lucky enough to go during winter months (June - August) make sure to get out early and enjoy some outdoor fun before the sun sets at around 7pm!

Education In Australia

Australia is renowned for its outstanding quality of teaching and learning. Education has long been a fundamental part of everyday life here; it was compulsory for all children from five to fifteen years old as early as 1872. The nation boasts an impressive range of high-quality public and private educational institutions including universities, technical colleges and schools.

Australia’s education system comprises both primary and secondary schooling, as well as tertiary vocational training. All levels are government funded, providing citizens with access to free tuition. Primary school students attend classes between the ages of 5-12 while secondary school covers 13-18 year olds. The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) sets out the standards that must be met by any institution offering qualifications in higher education such as university degrees or diplomas.

Higher education institutions offer courses covering a variety of disciplines such as business management, engineering, medicine and IT & Science, enabling students to gain skills needed to pursue their chosen career paths. Universities also have strong international connections which allows them to attract world-renowned lecturers and researchers – further enhancing student experiences. With so many opportunities available for learners at different stages in their lives, it's easy to see why Australia has become one of the most popular destinations for studying abroad today.

Australia is a truly remarkable and diverse country. It has an area of 7,692,024 square kilometres, making it the sixth largest nation in the world. Throughout its history, Australia has been home to many different cultures and nationalities who have all left their mark on the vibrant culture that exists today. In terms of climate, you can find everything from arid desert areas to lush rainforests; or even snow-capped mountains for those seeking adventure!

The wildlife found across Australia's varied terrain is incredibly unique - with kangaroos hopping through fields and koalas snoozing in treetops like something out of a fairytale. The population of 25 million people offer a wonderful mix of languages and customs which are celebrated throughout this great land. Economically speaking, Australia enjoys a prosperous economy sustained by mining resources such as gold and iron ore; while tourism continues to be one of the main contributors to GDP growth.

To sum up: Australia offers so much more than what meets the eye - an abundance of natural beauty coupled with rich cultural diversity make it an ideal destination for everyone looking to explore something new. As they say "A picture paints a thousand words" – if that's true then visiting Australia will leave you speechless! 

Most Popular Articles

Find resources and information for news and events happening around Australia.

Red Bull Hardline 2024 in Tasmania

Red Bull Hardline 2024  is coming to Tasmania Hey everyone! I've been a huge fan of mountain biking for years, watching the adrenaline-pumping action of …

Queens of the Stone Age Tour: A Rock Renaissance Down Under

A Rock Renaissance Down Under: Queens of the Stone Age Tour About Queens of the Stone Age Queens of the Stone Age, the band that …

Kangaroo Sanctuary in Alice Springs

Kangaroo Sanctuary About Kangaroo Sanctuary The Kangaroo Sanctuary in Alice Springs is a dedicated wildlife conservation facility focused on rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for orphaned …

Fort Scratchley

Fort Scratchley About For Scratchley Fort Scratchley, situated in Newcastle East, is a historical landmark and museum that offers a glimpse into Australia's military past. …

Wildlife Safari by Byron Bay Eco Tours

Wildlife Safari in Byron Bay About Byron Bay Eco Tours Byron Bay Eco Tours is an eco-tourism company operating in Byron Bay, offering a range …

Blue Bay Whale Watching Byrons Bay

Blue Bay Whale Watching About Blue Bay Whale Watching Blue Bay Whale Watching is a Byron Bay-based marine tour operator that specializes in small-group whale …

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

25 Best Places to Visit in Australia

Located between the Pacific and Indian Oceans, Australia is the world’s largest island and its smallest continent. There’s room to move in the Land Down Under, and with so many sights to discover and enjoy, there’s a great incentive to go on a walkabout adventure. Whether exploring the traditional lifestyle of the nation’s Aboriginal people, relaxing on a sun-kissed beach or reveling the night away in a city hot spot, Australia has something special to offer every visitor.

With amazing national parks dotted around the country and some fantastic islands, visitors to Australia can be off exploring the delights of Tasmania one minute and Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks the next.

Map of Places to Visit in Australia

On top of this, the beautiful beaches and turquoise waters that line its shores are home to the jaw-dropping Great Barrier Reef; one of the miracles of the natural world and one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. With loads of great things to see and do, you’ll have your job cut out trying to fit everything into your trip!

25. Canberra [SEE MAP]

Having started life as a planned city back in 1913, Australia’s capital Canberra is slowly but surely growing into a lively and lovely place. Affectionately (and at times derisively) nicknamed the ‘bush capital’, the city lies amidst stunning nature reserves and low-lying mountain ranges in the north of the Australian Capital Territory.

Once the home solely of politicians and civil servants, the now thriving metropolis is home to world-class museums, art galleries, and national monuments. All kinds of shops, restaurants and bars abound, and its large student body means there’s a pounding nightlife scene. Despite its youth, the city has lots of interesting historical sights; many of these relate to its parliament and governmental institutions.

Due to its remote and rural setting, the city is also a fantastic place for exploring the great outdoors. Its nearby nature reserves are wonderful to hike and cycle around, as are Canberra’s numerous parks, gardens, and human-made lakes.

24. The Pinnacles [SEE MAP]

Located within Nambung National Park, The Pinnacles can be found not far from the small town of Cervantes in Western Australia. Due to their remote setting, the spectacular limestone formations largely remained unknown until 1967, when a reserve was formed to protect the prominent pillars.

Rising dramatically out of the desert floor, The Pinnacles resemble weathered tombstones and number in the thousands. Together, they make for an incredible sight as sand from the coastal dunes constantly blows through the otherworldly looking landscape.

While debates are ongoing as to how their distinctive shapes formed, it is generally agreed that they are made out of the limestone from seashells as the region used to be submerged millennia ago. Now, The Pinnacles make for a popular tourist attraction. Western grey kangaroos can often be spotted between them, as well as the occasional emu, dingo, and honey possum.

23. Gold Coast [SEE MAP]

Blessed with year-round warm weather and sunny skies, Australia’s glimmering Gold Coast lies just to the south of Brisbane on Queensland’s southeastern coastline. The coastal city is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country thanks to its lively yet laid-back vibe and alluring sun, sea, and surf.

Surfers Paradise is the area most people flock to. ‘The capital of the Gold Coast’ is home to large shopping malls and pounding nightclubs as well as countless restaurants, bars, and accommodation options. Glittering high rises tower above its expansive beach, which is great for sunbathing, swimming and watersports.

While it is often called a tacky tourist-trap, the Gold Coast has loads going for it, with beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets a given. In addition, it also boasts exhilarating amusement parks, water parks, and nature reserves, while its surf breaks are out of this world.

22. Alice Springs [SEE MAP]

Located almost slap bang in the center of Australia, Alice Springs lies in the Northern Territory’s endless outback, more than 1,500 kilometers from the nearest city. While it certainly takes some getting to, the remote rural town is perfectly placed for exploring the Red Centre.

Although there is not much going on in the town itself, Alice Springs is a great place to visit if you want to delve into the Aborigines’ rich history, heritage, and culture. It is home to a number of superb museums and indigenous Australian art galleries, as well as a large Aboriginal population. In addition, it has plenty of restaurants, bars, and hotels for visitors to choose from.

Its main draw, however, are the awe-inspiring desert landscapes, rock formations, and gorges that lie all around it. While the iconic Uluru attracts the most visitors with its distinctive ruddy hue and hulking great landmass, the Kata Tjuta rock formations also make for a spectacular sight, as do the gaping chasms of Kings Canyon.

21. Karijini National Park [SEE MAP]

The second-largest national park in Western Australia, Karijini lies about a thousand kilometers to the north of the state’s capital, Perth. Centered around the Hamersley Ranges, it is very mountainous and known for the gorgeous gorges, slot canyons, and waterfalls that dot its confines.

Rising above the dark red hues of its rugged landscapes are the three highest peaks in the west of Australia. These make for some fantastic hiking, as do the narrow gorges and precipitous chasms snaking beneath them. Punctuating its semi-arid terrain are a series of hidden water holes and glittering waterfalls, which are amazingly refreshing to swim or bathe in after a dusty walk.

Besides the stunning scenery, Karijini National Park is home to more than 800 different plant species, as well as lots of incredible wildlife. While exploring the nature reserve, visitors may catch a glimpse of wallabies, echidnas, and red kangaroos.

20. Darwin [SEE MAP]

Hugging the coastline of Australia’s Top End, the region encompassing the Northern Territory, Darwin has long been the most international of the country’s major cities. Its close proximity to other countries in the Indian Ocean has made the city a transportation hub since its earliest days. Devastated during World War II and again in 1974 when struck by Cyclone Tracy, Darwin is a resilient town with a spirit that can’t be defeated. Today, the city of around 75,000 people is a popular holiday destination.

Darwin’s main natural attraction is its wide sandy beach lined with open-air beer bars, seafood restaurants and multinational shops. Twice the size of Sydney Harbor, Darwin Harbor attracts visitors too.

Cruises lasting two to 12 hours are available for explorations of the region’s mangrove forest. In the evening, locals and visitors stroll down the city’s esplanade to enjoy films at the Deckchair Cinema, a large open-air theater located on the banks of harbor.

Darwin is also the hub for tours to famous Kakadu National Park as well as Litchfield National Park and Katherine Gorge. Whether watching crocodiles cavort in Crocodylus Park, cruising to the Aboriginal-owned Tiwi Islands or relaxing on the beach, there’s always something new to experience in tropical Darwin.

19. Daintree Rainforest [SEE MAP]

Lying on the northeast coast of Australia in a national park of the same name, Daintree is one of the world’s oldest and most diverse tropical rainforests. Located in the state of Queensland, its fantastic fauna and flora and ancient ecosystems are incredible to explore, and home to lots of wildlife.

Daintree doesn’t consist solely of lush and verdant rainforest, but also includes rugged mountains, teeming rivers, rich coral reef systems, and beautiful beaches. Of these, Cape Tribulation is considered to boast some of the best white sandy beaches in Australia.

Best accessed from Cairns, around a three-hour drive away, Daintree Rainforest is a nature lover’s delight and has lots of fun outdoor activities for visitors to try. Besides hiking amid the dense undergrowth and going bird or wildlife watching, popular pastimes include paddleboarding, ziplining through the canopy, and cruising along one of its rivers.

18. Byron Bay [SEE MAP]

The easternmost point of Australia’s mainland, Byron Bay lies in the state of New South Wales, just off the Pacific Highway that connects Brisbane to Sydney. Famed for its idyllic beaches, fantastic surf spots, and lovely laid-back lifestyle, the beautiful beachside town is one of the nation’s most popular tourist destinations.

While the town itself hosts a number of arts and culture festivals throughout the year, as well as weekly farmers’ markets, most people visit for its scenic setting and wealth of outdoor activities. Besides lounging on any one of its wonderful beaches, visitors can enjoy scuba diving, surfing, and whale-watching offshore, with skydiving and yoga also popular.

Due to Byron Bay’s alternative vibe and rugged beauty, everyone from ageing hippies and artists to surfers, business people, and families have migrated to the town. As such, lots of trendy bars and restaurants have sprung up, as well as little art galleries and all types of accommodation options.

17. Fraser Island [SEE MAP]

Separated from the mainland of Australia by the Great Sandy Strait, Fraser Island lies just off the Queensland’s southeast coast. Stretching for over a hundred kilometers, the world’s largest sand island is a popular place to visit due to its beautiful scenery and outstanding natural sights.

While idyllic white sandy beaches and crumbling sand cliffs line its shores, lush rainforests, dense mangroves, and epic coastal dune systems can be found dotted here and there. In addition, more than a hundred glittering freshwater lakes punctuate its picture-perfect landscapes, with Lake Wabby and Lake MacKenzie two of the most popular.

Much of the stunning scenery lies within Great Sandy National Park, which is home to all kinds of birds and mammals, such as dingoes, dolphins, wallabies, and whales. Besides wildlife watching, Fraser Island also has lots of great hiking, swimming, and watersports for visitors to enjoy, and camping beneath the stars is always a memorable experience.

16. Broome [SEE MAP]

Perched on a small peninsula that juts into the Indian Ocean, the small, scenic and secluded town of Broome is located on the northern coast of Western Australia. Lying more than 2,000 kilometers from both Darwin and Perth, the two nearest cities, the remote beach resort and pearling town acts as a gateway to the region’s riches.

The most popular place to relax and unwind in Broome is Cable Beach, which is widely thought to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia. Besides sunbathing on its white sands and bathing in its turquoise waters, visitors can enjoy cocktails and spa packages at its luxury resorts, as well as sunset camel rides along the beach.

More active holidaymakers can visit the fantastic rock formations at Entrance Point and the red cliffs and dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point; both of which lie nearby. Further afield are the breathtaking Horizontal Falls, with other wonderfully wild and untouched landscapes dotted about the Dampier Peninsula and the Kimberley Region.

15. Cairns [SEE MAP]

For its tropical climate, easy-going ambiance and close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is one of Australia’s most popular vacation destinations. Located on the northwest corner of Australia, Cairns is a provincial but stylish city with a population of around 150,000 people.

The city is bordered by mountains and the Coral Sea and is surrounded by sugar cane plantations and rainforest. There are enough good bars, restaurants and shopping options to keep visitors entertained before they head off into the stunning nature nearby.

Instead of a beach, Cairns features a saltwater lagoon in the center of the city. The Cairns Esplanade along the shore is lined with trendy cafés, bars and boutiques. Numerous beaches are located just to the north of the city and are easily accessible by bus or car. The City Botanic Gardens features plants used by Aboriginal people. Opposite the gardens, a boardwalk leads visitors through the rainforest to the Centenary Lakes, a habitat for crocodiles.

Opportunities for adventure sports abound in Cairns and range from snorkeling and scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef to skydiving and whitewater rafting. The Daintree Rainforest to the north of Cairns is considered the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, and a hike along an aerial walkway over the forest is an experience that many visitors won’t want to miss.

14. Kings Canyon [SEE MAP]

Lying in Watarrka National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory, Kings Canyon is sure to impress with its staggering size, scale, and stunning scenery. One of the region’s main attractions, the gaping gorge was formed more than 400 million years ago as the ruddy-colored sandstone eroded.

Cutting through the desolate desert landscapes, the colossal canyon’s walls tower over a hundred meters in height, with a small creek and sparse vegetation down below. There are jagged cliffs, interesting rock formations, and beautiful scenery to spy, whether you’re strolling in the shade or hiking along its rim.

For the Luritja people, Kings Canyon has long been a source of water and a place of refuge and respite from the searing sun. It is still a sacred site to this day. Due to the infernal heat and cruel climate, it is well advised to bring lots of water with you when hiking or climbing around the canyon.

13. Adelaide [SEE MAP]

Situated on the eastern shores of Gulf St Vincent, Adelaide is the capital of South Australia. Adelaide is Australia’s fifth largest city, with a population of over 1.2 million. More than three quarters of South Australians live in the Adelaide metropolitan area.

The city is located on a plain between the rolling Adelaide Hills and the Gulf and is bordered by many of Australia’s famous wine regions. The Barossa Valley and Clare Valley regions lie to the north, the McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek regions to the south and the cooler Adelaide Hills region to the east.

Nicknamed ‘the city of churches’, the lofty spires dotted about here and there add to the picturesque nature of Adelaide and there are lots of nice parks and green spaces for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.

Proximity to premium wine and food growing regions, as well as waves of immigration from Europe and Asia have created a unique multicultural gourmet food and café culture in the city. This culture is supported by Adelaide’s arts festivals held in March including the Adelaide Festival and the Adelaide Fringe Festival.

12. Blue Mountains [SEE MAP]

One of the most accessible and awe-inspiring of Australia’s natural wonders, the Blue Mountains lie just to the west of Sydney in New South Wales. Sprawling over a vast area, its majestic mountains, plateaus, and escarpments are lovely to explore and make for a popular day trip or weekend away.

Named after the misty haze that the oil from its endless eucalyptus trees give off, the mountains are home to lots of unspoiled nature and spectacular scenery. A myriad of well-maintained hiking trails and mountain bike paths weave their way here and there, with stunning views to be enjoyed from Echo Point and Govett’s Leap.

As the mountains have long been the home of the Gundungurra and Darug peoples, they are also a great place to learn more about Aboriginal history and culture. In addition, lots of charming towns and villages dot the land. Springwood, for example, is known for its art galleries, while Leura boasts cosy craft shops and sophisticated restaurants.

11. Great Ocean Road [SEE MAP]

Winding along the south coast of the state of Victoria, the 243 kilometer-long Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most scenic drives. Completed in 1932, the highway was built by soldiers returning from WWI and is dedicated to those who lost their lives.

Running from the seaside resort town of Torquay near Melbourne to the small and quiet Allansford, the road passes epic limestone sea stacks, secluded coves, and spectacular surf spots. At times, it meanders through pockets of rainforest, fertile winelands, and endless eucalyptus forests, with sleepy seaside towns dotted here and there.

Renowned for its incredible surfing, Bell’s Beach is one of the most popular attractions, along with Great Otway National Park, which is home to lots of spectacular natural beauty. The Twelve Apostles make for a stunning sight: the crumbling sea stacks are constantly pummeled by the rough and treacherous waters of the mighty Southern Ocean.

10. Perth [SEE MAP]

The capital of Western Australia, Perth is very isolated from the rest of the country, yet is routinely considered one of the most livable cities in the world thanks to its laidback vibe, fantastic cultural sites, and a wide range of things to do.

Many of Perth’s attractions are located near the water, whether it’s the beaches stretching along the Sunset Coast to the north or the parks, walks and picnic spots edging the Swan River. Fremantle, known as “Freo” by the locals, is the city’s port, a bustling marina that has recently gained a reputation as a haven for artists and students. Cottesloe Beach, just a few miles north of Fremantle, is Perth’s most popular beach.

One of the largest city parks in the world, the thousand-acre Kings Park encompasses Mount Eliza, a hill overlooking the city, and boasts a botanical garden with aerial walkways as well as the State War Memorial park. The Perth Zoo offers visitors up-close encounters with kangaroos and other animals native to Australia. Ferry service in Perth takes visitors to car-free Rottnest Island or the closer Penguin Island to watch daily feedings of the flightless birds.

Whether swimming with dolphins, firing up a barbie on the river’s shoreline or exploring the Aquarium of Western Australia, the country’s largest aquarium, aquatic adventures abound in sun-and-sea-loving Perth.

9. Kangaroo Island [SEE MAP]

The third-largest island in the country, Kangaroo Island lies just off the coast of South Australia, around a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jarvis. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the state, its delightfully untouched landscapes are home to incredible scenery and an abundance of wildlife.

Everything from huge dunes and towering cliffs to large caves and remarkable rock formations can be found in its numerous nature reserves. These are home to echidnas, koalas, and kangaroos, while penguins, sea lions and dolphins can be spotted offshore. Its diverse landscapes lend themselves perfectly to all kinds of outdoor activities, with hiking, sandboarding and scuba diving popular.

Besides its ample natural riches, wildlife, and recreation opportunities, Kangaroo Island also boasts lots of delicious local produce and fine wines for visitors to try. These can be sampled at any one of its four main towns or at the small farms and wineries that dot the island.

8. Brisbane [SEE MAP]

A popular tourist destination, Brisbane is a lively, dynamic place that is bathed in beautiful sunshine year-round. It has a population of about 2 million people, making it the third-largest city in Australia, after Sydney and Melbourne. Located in the Sunshine State, many visitors stop by on their way to the fantastic resorts and beaches that lie to its north and south.

Set alongside the Brisbane River, the city’s fantastic climate means that outdoor activities are very popular here; you can take your pick from a huge catalog, with biking, climbing, and hiking featuring prominently. A fun and friendly city, Brisbane’s vibrant music scene has made it one of the music capitals of the world and there are lots of venues in town where you can enjoy a great show. With loads of brilliant restaurants and bars for you to choose from, Brisbane is not to be missed.

7. Tasmania [SEE MAP]

The island state of Tasmania may be isolated from the rest of the country but it still remains one of the best places to visit in Australia; almost half of its area is protected as the government looks to preserve the natural riches.

With desolate wilderness and alpine plateaus interspersed with stunning white beaches, waterfalls, and forests, exploring its terrain is simply mesmerizing. Taking a boat trip along its craggy coast is equally rewarding and you can even see dolphins, penguins, and seals along the way.

With lots of great local produce, eating and drinking in the capital city of Hobart is an absolute pleasure and the restaurants and bars are divine. The island also hosts an eclectic range of great festivals throughout the year, where you can enjoy local beer and wine or arts and music events.

6. Whitsunday Islands [SEE MAP]

One of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, the Whitsunday Islands lie scattered off Queensland’s northeastern coast, surrounded by warm and inviting aquamarine waters. As it is part of the Great Barrier Reef, most of the archipelago lies within national parks, so stunning scenery and picture-perfect beaches abound.

Due to the abundance of underwater riches and colorful coral reefs, the Whitsundays are a great place to go snorkeling and scuba diving. Sailing around its 74 islands and islets is also very popular, as is lounging on its sun-kissed sands. In Whitehaven Beach, the archipelago boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

While the Whitsunday Islands are primarily known for their outstanding natural beauty, they are also remarkably home to some of the oldest Aboriginal archaeological sites in the country. As the idyllic islands are now mainly uninhabited and undeveloped with only a few resorts and campsites to be found here and there, it is best to arrange tours and activities in Airlie Beach on the mainland.

5. Melbourne [SEE MAP]

The capital of the state of Victoria, Melbourne is Australia’s second most populated city. Located near the southeastern tip of Australia on the large natural bay of Port Phillip, Melbourne is considered the nation’s cultural capital as well as an important port. Due to its high quality of life, citizens from around the world have flocked to the streets. Its multicultural population is reflected in the delicious cuisine and the unique neighborhoods that make it such a fascinating place to explore.

Melbourne’s City Center district boasts the most attractions , including the city’s most recognizable landmark, the Flinders Street Railway Station. The multiple clocks hanging over the Edwardian Era station’s entrance is a popular meeting spot. The skyscraper Eureka Tower features an 88th-floor observation platform, the highest in the southern hemisphere. Visitors can step out onto a glass-enclosed compartment for panoramic views of the bay and the green Dandenong mountain range beyond.

In the Carlton district, visitors can explore the southern hemisphere’s largest museum. The Melbourne Museum showcases the nation’s rich social history, from its indigenous cultures to its fascination with football and horse racing, and has extensive exhibits illustrating Australia’s natural history as well.

Visitors looking for outdoor activities can enjoy the city’s parklands, many of which are shaded by large, mature trees. For swimming and sunbathing, Melbourne’s bayside beaches are ideal. For a retro feel, Brighton Beach features colorful bathing huts. St. Kilda Beach is one of the most popular beaches, both for its swimming and for the clubs and restaurants that line the shore. From dawn to dusk, visitors to Melbourne will never run out of exciting things to see and do.

4. Kakadu National Park [SEE MAP]

Occupied by Aboriginal people for over 40,000 years, Kakadu National Park has over five thousand ancient rock art sites which are fascinating to visit. It is a place of immense cultural and natural significance. The park is huge and contains some stunning natural sights which make it well worth a visit; the Kakadu Escarpment is particularly breathtaking.

With diverse ecosystems contained within the park’s boundaries, you can be hiking through deserted sandstone escarpments one minute and bathing in waterfalls and pools the next, before later on learning about some of the ancient rock paintings. While it can get very popular, Kakadu’s huge area means that you can easily enjoy all the park has to offer in peace and quiet if you step off the beaten path a little.

3. Great Barrier Reef [SEE MAP]

The largest coral reef system on the face of the earth, the Great Barrier Reef is simply colossal. Located in the Coral Sea off the coast of Australia’s state of Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef encompasses a huge area of more than 2,900 coral reefs and hundreds of islands and cays. Formed by millions of living organisms over a period of millions of years, the Reef is now one of the world’s most diverse and complex ecosystems.

While always known and used by the Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Australian peoples, the Reef today is protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It is home to a remarkable array of marine life including 1500 fish species and 360 corals in addition to various species of whales, dolphins, marine turtles, sea snakes and birds, which breed among the small islands.

The best way to explore the Reef is by one of the numerous boat cruises that run along the northern coast of Queensland. The town of Cairns is regarded as the main gateway to the Reef, but other towns such as Townsville, Port Douglas, Yeppoon, Mission Beach and Cooktown also offer cruise operations.

Ranging from single day trips to multiple day voyages, these boat cruises usually anchor at certain stops to allow for snorkeling and diving. Other options for experiencing the Reef include underwater observatories, glass-bottomed boat tours and helicopter flights.

2. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park [SEE MAP]

World famous, spectacular Uluru is instantly recognizable due to its ruddy red hue; it is one of Australia’s most prominent landmarks. The immense rock is incredible to visit and the main reason the national park is such a popular destination. Its grandeur and uniqueness live long in the memory of those who gaze upon it. While Uluru is the main draw, the equally mesmerizing rock formations of Kata Tijuta are fantastic to wander around, and there are lots of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Owned by the Anangu Aboriginal people, the site is of great cultural and spiritual significance to them; you can learn more about their way of life at the brilliant cultural center. With lots of great walks, bike rides and tours, the astounding beauty of this national park really is awe-inspiring.

1. Sydney [SEE MAP]

Almost picture perfect, Sydney is a fantastic city with a lot going for it. A modern city with a long history, Sydney is defined by its scenic harbor. The region’s first inhabitants lived along the harbor’s bank for thousands of years. The harbor was also the landing site for convicts sent to Australia during the 1780s. Today, ferries take visitors for cruises under the famed Sydney Harbor Bridge and past the iconic Sydney Opera House.

Adventurous travelers can take a ferry to Manly Wharf where they can rent kayaks to paddle the inlets of Sydney Harbor National Park or sign up for surf classes at Manly Beach. The Federation Cliff Walk is a 5-km (3-mile) long walkway that starts at the Raleigh Reserve Park, providing spectacular views of the sea, harbor and the Macquarie Lighthouse, Australia’s first and longest operating lighthouse.

Sydney’s beaches are the perfect place to spend a warm summer day, to swim or just relax on the sands. The most popular are Bondi Beach, Manly and Coogee, although many others have their own charms.

See also: Where to Stay in Sydney

No visit to Sydney is complete without a tour of the Sydney Opera House. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and completed in 1973, the sailing ship-inspired performing arts complex is considered one of the world’s most distinctive architectural structures.

For adventurous visitors to Sydney, a heart-thumping climb on the harbor bridge is a must-do activity. For others, shopping at the historic Queen Victoria Building, hitting the clubs and restaurants the in Rocks district and visiting the world-class Taronga Zoo are can’t-miss activities. Visitors can count on cosmopolitan Sydney to accommodate every taste.

Australia Travel Video

Share this post:.

15 Best Cities to Visit in Australia

7 Most Beautiful Regions in Australia

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Australia

15 Most Scenic Small Towns in Australia

9 Most Amazing Places to Stay in Australia

10 Best Islands in Australia You Should Visit

10 Best Beaches in Australia

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Australia

15 Best Things to Do on the Gold Coast, Queensland

6 Best Day Trips from Melbourne

Reader interactions.

December 22, 2019 at 11:08 am

I had the opportunity to visit Australia in November 2019 and I will say Brisbane tops them all

July 27, 2017 at 10:36 am

Loved Steve Irwin and his daughter Bindi so we are going to Brisbane to specifically see their zoo. So hope it is worth the trip.

July 21, 2017 at 4:30 am

I really love Sydney its a very nice place and I really love the island over there

January 12, 2017 at 11:24 pm

Hopefully everyone will get their act straight and help keep the Great Barrier Reef from getting destroyed. I’m still hoping that I can get to experience this beautiful gift of nature before climate change and pollution destroys it!

September 29, 2016 at 11:05 pm

I highly recommend the Great Barrier Reef. Fly to Cairns and split time between Port Douglas and Cairns. You also have direct access to the Rain Forest. This is an amazing part of the world and a must see location.

January 16, 2016 at 6:21 pm

@Pete75 What area would you suggest for our first trip to Australia? We love to sight see and have outdoor adventures like snorkeling, rock jumping, zip lining and are up for new fun adventures too. We are planning our trip possibly late June. Any advice is appreciated

January 10, 2016 at 10:05 am

@deepak The Gold Coast? Are you kidding? The Gold Coast is the worst place in Australia by a country mile! It is a plastic and concrete abomination to be avoided at all costs.

August 12, 2015 at 5:41 am

I am surprised Goldcoast is not on the list and places like Alice Spring and Brisbane are within top 10. I think number 1 should be Gold Coast followed by Sydney and Melbourne.

August 1, 2015 at 4:45 pm

In 2013 I had the oportunity to visit Australia for the first time. What a good surprise I had! Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Heron Island. So many beautiful places! In march 2016 I’m going again and Hobart is in my list!

May 7, 2015 at 8:35 am

Tassie definitely needs to have more recognition. It is a part of Australia that is very different from the rest, especially other parts of Tassie, not just it’s capital, Hobart. Poor tassie always gets cut out from all those Australian souvenirs where it is in the shape of Australia, as it is an island state and often they just don’t include it inside!

August 4, 2014 at 9:33 pm

YAYAYYAYYA!!! Adelaide made the list and its al the top!! South australia is a beautiful state, most people disregard it and dont bother with it but it is a really nice city and the “outback” like the FLinders Ranges are beautiful!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Australian Cities Map

More Countries in Oceania

Author & photographer: David Johnson (Virtual Australia). Providing a credit or link is appreciated. Our content: logos, site names, text, photos, and website design are protected by international copyright law. Original versions of our photos can be purchased / licensed & web versions can be shared subject to conditions .

World Time Zone Map World Time Directory Australia local time Australia on Google Map

• World Time World Clock Cities Countries GMT time UTC time AM and PM Time zone conveter Area Codes United States Canada
• Time Zones Time Zone Abbreviations UTC GMT World Time Zone Map Knowledge Base GMT and UTC difference Daylight Saving Time How we keep time in zones Military Time
• Time Converter Time Difference Calculator Popular Converters New York vs London Central vs Eastern Time California vs Hawaii Eastern vs Pacific Time
• Maps Time Zone Maps World Time Zone Map Australia Time Zone Map Canada Time Zone Map EU Time Zone Map US Time Zone Map World Map
• Clock Widgets Widgets for websites and blogs Analog clock widget Digital clock widget Text clock widget
• About Us Why 24timezones About Us Contact Us
• Announce event!
• EN - English

Map of Australia

Where is australia located interactive australia map on googlemap.

Travelling to Australia? Find out more with this detailed map of Australia provided by Google Maps.

Find out more with this detailed Australia map and tourist map of Australia provided by Google Maps.

Copyright © 2005 - 2024 24TimeZones.com. All rights reserved.

• Australia Cities Map

Explore the city map of Australia showing all major cities. In Australia, what makes a city can differ from one state to another. Often, the big state capitals encompass several local government areas (LGAs) inside their limits. Interestingly, these LGAs might be considered cities themselves. The cities mentioned here are categorized based on the state they're in. This list also covers places that used to be recognized as cities but aren't anymore. This could be due to LGAs merging together or other reasons.

Are you looking for a Customized Map? Please get Custom Mapping Quote here .

About Australia Cities Map

Australian cities by population, sydney, new south wales, melbourne, victoria, brisbane, queensland, perth, western australia, adelaide, south australia, canberra, australian capital territory, hobart, tasmania, darwin, northern territory, population of greater capital city statistical areas, major urban areas by population, population of fifty largest urban centres, population of local government areas, australia maps.

• Australia Map
• Australia State Map
• Blank Australia Map
• Australia on World Map
• Australia Physical Map
• Australia Road Map
• Australia Time Zone Map
• Australia Climate Map
• Australia Map Wallpapers
• Australia Wood Map
• Australia Train Map
• Australia Airport Map
• New South Wales Map
• Western Australia Map
• South Australia Map
• Queensland Map
• Tasmania Map
• Northern Territory Map
• New South Wales Outline Map
• Northern Territory Outline Map
• Queensland Outline Map
• South Australia Outline Map
• Tasmania Outline Map
• Victoria Outline Map
• Western Australia Outline Map
• New South Wales County Map
• South Australia County Map
• Victoria County Map
• Tasmania Land District Map
• Queensland LGA Map
• Australia Capital

Australian Famous Landmark Locations

• Where is Great Barrier Reef
• Where is Uluru
• Where is Sydney Opera House
• Where is The Twelve Apostles
• Where is Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Where is Three Sisters

Australian Cities Locations

• Where is Melbourne
• Where is Sydney
• Where is Perth
• Where is Newcastle
• Where is Brisbane
• Where is Gold Coast

Maps of All Countries of the World

• Afghanistan Map
• Algeria Map
• Albania Map
• Andorra Map
• Argentina Map
• Armenia Map
• Antigua and Barbuda Map
• Austria Map
• Azerbaijan Map
• Bahamas Map
• Bahrain Map
• Bangladesh Map
• Barbados Map
• Belarus Map
• Belgium Map
• Bolivia Map
• Bulgaria Map
• Burkina Faso Map
• Burundi Map
• Cambodia Map
• Colombia Map
• Costa Rica Map
• Croatia Map
• Denmark Map
• Djibouti Map
• Dominica Map
• Dominican Republic Map
• Ecuador Map
• England Map
• Eritrea Map
• Ethiopia Map
• Finland Map
• Georgia Map
• Germany Map
• Guatemala Map
• Iceland Map
• Indonesia Map
• Ireland Map
• Jamaica Map
• Lebanon Map
• Lesotho Map
• Madagascar Map
• Malaysia Map
• Maldives Map
• Mauritius Map
• Mongolia Map
• Morocco Map
• Myanmar Map
• Netherlands Map
• New Zealand Map
• Nigeria Map
• North Korea Map
• Northern Ireland Map
• Pakistan Map
• Palestine Map
• Papua New Guinea Map
• Philippines Map
• Portugal Map
• Saudi Arabia Map
• Scotland Map
• Singapore Map
• Somalia Map
• South Africa Map
• South Korea Map
• Soviet Union Map
• Sri Lanka Map
• Switzerland Map
• Tanzania Map
• Thailand Map
• Tunisia Map
• Ukraine Map
• United Kingdom Map
• Venezuela Map
• Vietnam Map

Maps of Australia

On AustraliaMap360° you will find all maps to print and to download in PDF of the country of Australia in Oceania. You have at your disposal a whole set of maps of Australia in Oceania: detailed map of Australia (Australia on world map, political map), geographic map (physical map of Australia, regions map), transports map of Australia (road map, train map, airports map), Australia tourist attractions map and and other maps of Australia in Oceania (black and white map).

All Australia maps

To discover the country Australia, the detailed map of Australia and the maps of the regions and administrative are available. Take the opportunity to discover major cities and locate the capital. To learn a little more about the geography of Australia, physical map and maps of mountains, rivers and elevation will be very useful. To help you move into the country, you may use transportation maps of Australia. It includes the Australia road map, train network and airports of Australia. To visit Australia in Oceania, you will find the tourist attractions maps highlighting monuments of Australia, but also the wine map of Australia. You will also find other maps like: blank map of Australia and some old maps of Australia in Oceania.

Map of Australia – Cities and Roads

Table of Contents

About Australia

Australia is the world’s sixth-largest country by total area, with a population of over 25 million people. The capital of Australia is Canberra, while its largest city is Sydney. It is also known for its unique wildlife, such as kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies.

Australia is a democratic country, with a federal parliamentary system of government. It is a member of the United Nations, G20 , Commonwealth of Nations, ANZUS, and the World Trade Organization, among others.

Administrative Regions of Australia, States and Territories

Top 10 tourist places in australia, major cities and towns in australia, rivers in australia, airports in australia, australia territory map.

Q: What is the Great Barrier Reef?

A: The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, located off the coast of Queensland in Australia. It is a popular tourist destination known for its colorful marine life and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities.

Q: What is the capital of Australia?

A: The capital of Australia is Canberra.

Q: What is the population of Australia?

A: The estimated population of Australia is around 25.7 million people.

Q: What is the official language of Australia?

A: The official language of Australia is English.

Q: Which currency is used in Australia?

A: The currency used in Australia is the Australian dollar (AUD) .

Map of Melbourne — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Melbourne, Australia for travelers! Check out Melbourne’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Melbourne? See our Melbourne Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Melbourne. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Melbourne map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Melbourne by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 20 attractions in Melbourne

Royal botanic gardens victoria - melbourne gardens, national gallery of victoria.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

The ian potter centre: ngv australia.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Queen Victoria Market

Royal exhibition building, parliament house, shrine of remembrance, state library victoria, australian sports museum, fitzroy gardens, flinders street railway station, melbourne museum.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Chinatown Melbourne

Yarra river cruises, the block arcade, old melbourne gaol, rod laver arena, top 10 restaurants in melbourne.

Flower Drum Restaurant Melbourne

Vue de monde, supernormal, cumulus inc., farmer's daughters, gimlet at cavendish house, transportation in melbourne, nearby airports, melbourne airport, highways and major roads.

• Princes Highway
• Hume Highway
• Western Ring Road
• Eastern Freeway
• Monash Freeway
• Tullamarine Freeway
• Nepean Highway
• Calder Freeway
• Greensborough Highway
• South Gippsland Highway

Top searches in Melbourne

Popular road trips from melbourne, what's the weather like in melbourne.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Melbourne for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Melbourne in January
• Weather in Melbourne in February
• Weather in Melbourne in March
• Weather in Melbourne in April
• Weather in Melbourne in May
• Weather in Melbourne in June
• Weather in Melbourne in July
• Weather in Melbourne in August
• Weather in Melbourne in September
• Weather in Melbourne in October
• Weather in Melbourne in November
• Weather in Melbourne in December

All road trips from Melbourne

• Melbourne to Sydney drive
• Melbourne to Canberra drive
• Melbourne to Ballarat drive
• Melbourne to Adelaide drive
• Melbourne to Hobart drive
• Melbourne to the Gold Coast drive
• Melbourne to Torquay drive
• Melbourne to Brisbane drive
• Melbourne to Greater Bendigo drive
• Melbourne to Summerlands drive
• Melbourne to Launceston drive
• Melbourne to Port Campbell drive
• Melbourne to Warrnambool drive
• Melbourne to Katoomba drive
• Melbourne to Halls Gap drive
• Melbourne to Echuca drive
• Melbourne to Cessnock drive
• Melbourne to Apollo Bay drive
• Melbourne to Strahan drive
• Melbourne to Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park drive
• Melbourne to Cairns drive
• Melbourne to Mount Gambier drive
• Melbourne to Coles Bay drive
• Melbourne to Beechworth drive
• Melbourne to Port Macquarie drive
• Melbourne to Port Arthur drive
• Melbourne to Devonport drive
• Melbourne to Dubbo drive
• Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory National Park drive
• Melbourne to Broken Hill drive

Explore nearby places

• Collingwood
• Middle Park
• Port Phillip
• South Yarra
• Clifton Hill
• North Fitzroy
• Brunswick East
• the Moonee Valley
• Williamstown
• Moonee Ponds

All related maps of Melbourne

• Map of Yarra Glen
• Map of Fitzroy
• Map of Collingwood
• Map of Middle Park
• Map of Port Phillip
• Map of South Yarra
• Map of Richmond
• Map of Yarra
• Map of Abbotsford
• Map of Clifton Hill
• Map of North Fitzroy
• Map of Travancore
• Map of Prahran
• Map of St Kilda
• Map of Brunswick East
• Map of Windsor
• Map of Toorak
• Map of Brunswick
• Map of Monash
• Map of Yarraville
• Map of Ascot Vale
• Map of the Moonee Valley
• Map of Northcote
• Map of Footscray
• Map of Williamstown
• Map of Moonee Ponds
• Map of Hawthorn
• Map of Glen Eira
• Map of Newport

Melbourne throughout the year

• Melbourne in January
• Melbourne in February
• Melbourne in March
• Melbourne in April
• Melbourne in May
• Melbourne in June
• Melbourne in July
• Melbourne in August
• Melbourne in September
• Melbourne in October
• Melbourne in November
• Melbourne in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Melbourne?

Get inspired for your trip to Melbourne with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Melbourne Itinerary
• 2-Day Melbourne Itinerary
• 3-Day Melbourne Itinerary
• 4-Day Melbourne Itinerary
• 5-Day Melbourne Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

2024 solar eclipse map: Where to see the eclipse on April 8

These 2024 solar eclipse maps will help you make the best decision about where and how to watch the total solar eclipse on Monday (April 8).

It's finally here: Today, (April 8) a total solar eclipse will pass across the skies North America, giving more than 33 million people living in 15 U.S. states a rare view of the totally-obstructed sun, and — weather permitting — a taste of some seriously strange eclipse phenomena .

If you’re wondering where the total and partial phases of the eclipse will be visible, the good news is that almost everyone in the contiguous U.S. will be able to see the celestial spectacle to some extent. But for a more detailed view of the eclipse’s path, take a look at these handy eclipse maps, courtesy of GreatAmericanEclipse.com. 

Solar eclipse 2024 path of totality map

Totality is the moment that every eclipse-chaser lives for: The moment when the moon completely covers the sun’s face, resulting in a brief but eerie darkness in the daytime. The path of totality , shown in the map above, is the path of the moon’s shadow across Earth’s surface. 

On Monday (April 8), totality will begin in Sinaloa, Mexico, then move northeast up to Texas, ultimately crossing 15 states before moving on to Canada. The states where totality will be visible are: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine — although Tennessee and Michigan will only be glanced by the moon's shadow.

Related: April 8 solar eclipse: What time does totality start in every state?

Viewers MUST be within the path of totality to witness the total phase of the eclipse; if you are off the path by even a mile, you will only see a partial eclipse, and miss out on the spooky daytime darkness. Furthermore, the closer you are to the center of the path of totality, the longer totality will last for you — up to a maximum duration of 4 minutes, 27 seconds in Torreón, Mexico.

Note: Totality is the ONLY TIME when it is safe to view the sun without protective eyewear like certified solar eclipse glasses . You must protect your eyes during the entire partial phase of the eclipse, no matter where you are.

Sign up for the Live Science daily newsletter now

Get the world’s most fascinating discoveries delivered straight to your inbox.

Solar eclipse 2024 partial eclipse map

If you live in the U.S. and can’t make it to the path of totality, a partial eclipse still awaits you on April 8. The entire contiguous U.S. will have some view of the partial eclipse, ranging from 99% coverage of the sun just off the path of totality to about 15% coverage far to the northwest of the path.

The map above shows how much of the sun’s disk will be blocked from your location. Watching the partial phases of the eclipse — which last about an hour and 20 minutes before and after totality — means wearing protective eyewear at all times. Failure to do so could result in permanent eye damage, according to NASA .

If you want to experience the celestial spectacle but don’t have a pair of eclipse glasses handy, there are many other ways to safely enjoy the partial eclipse . These include making a homemade pinhole projector , using a pasta strainer to project the shadow of the moon onto the ground or watching one of the various eclipse live streams available.

2024 eclipse travel maps

If you want to see totality but don’t live within the path, driving or taking public transit to a city within the path may be possible. The map above shows how far the drive is to the path of totality, based on where you’re coming from. Meanwhile, the map below shows the most populated cities within the path of totality — many of which are expected to be flooded with millions of eclipse tourists on April 8.

The biggest cities within the path of totality include: San Antonio, Dallas, Austin and Fort Worth in Texas; Indianapolis, Indiana; Hamilton and Montreal in Canada; and Torreón and Mazatlan in Mexico.

Wherever you are on April 8, we wish you clear skies and protected eyes during this rare, wondrous eclipse over North America.

Brandon is the space/physics editor at Live Science. His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, CBS.com, the Richard Dawkins Foundation website and other outlets. He holds a bachelor's degree in creative writing from the University of Arizona, with minors in journalism and media arts. He enjoys writing most about space, geoscience and the mysteries of the universe.

Annular solar eclipse 2024: Everything you need to know about the next solar eclipse

Why I watched the solar eclipse with my kids, a goose and 2,000 trees

There's 5 times as many bull sharks off Alabama now — but don't worry about shark bites

Most Popular

• 2 Total solar eclipse reveals tiny new comet moments before it was destroyed by the sun
• 3 Largest 3D map of our universe could 'turn cosmology upside down'
• 4 Mass die-off half a billion years ago caused by shifting tectonic plates, ancient rocks reveal
• 5 China develops new light-based chiplet that could power artificial general intelligence — where AI is smarter than humans
• 2 Largest 3D map of our universe could 'turn cosmology upside down'
• 3 James Webb telescope finds origins of the biggest explosion since the Big Bang — revealing a new cosmological mystery
• 4 Ancient Indigenous lineage of Blackfoot Confederacy goes back 18,000 years to last ice age, DNA reveals
• 5 Eclipse from space: See the moon's shadow race across North America at 1,500 mph in epic satellite footage

Australia Recommends 2024

Come and Say G'day

G'day, the short film

Discover your Australia

Travel videos

Deals and offers

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

South Australia

Western Australia

External Territories

The Whitsundays

Mornington Peninsula

Port Douglas

Ningaloo Reef

Airlie Beach

Kangaroo Island

Rottnest Island

Hamilton Island

Lord Howe Island

Tiwi Islands

Phillip Island

Bruny Island

Margaret River

Barossa Valley

The Grampians

Hunter Valley

McLaren Vale

Glass House Mountains

Alice Springs

Uluru and Kata Tjuta

The Kimberley

Flinders Ranges

Kakadu National Park

Eyre Peninsula

Karijini National Park

Great Barrier Reef

Blue Mountains

Daintree Rainforest

Great Ocean Road

Purnululu National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Litchfield National Park

Aboriginal experiences

Arts and culture

Festivals and events

Food and drink

Adventure and sports

Walks and hikes

Road trips and drives

Beaches and islands

Nature and national parks

Eco-friendly travel

Health and wellness

Family travel

Family destinations

Family road trips

Backpacking

Work and holiday

Beginner's guide

Accessible travel

Planning tips

Trip planner

Australian budget guide

Itinerary planner

Find a travel agent

Find accommodation

Find transport

Visitor information centres

Deals and travel packages

Visa and entry requirements FAQ

Customs and biosecurity

Working Holiday Maker visas

Facts about Australia

Experiences that will make you feel like an Aussie

People and culture

Health and safety FAQ

Cities, states & territories

Iconic places and attractions

When is the best time to visit Australia?

Seasonal travel

Events and festivals

School holidays

Public holidays

How to get to Australia's most iconic cities

How long do I need for my trip to Australia?

How to travel around Australia

Guide to driving in Australia

How to hire a car or campervan

How to plan a family road trip

How to plan an outback road trip

Advertisement

Supported by

Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

• Share full article

By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

4.8 magnitude earthquake rattles NYC, New Jersey: Live updates

NEW YORK – A 4.8 magnitude earthquake recorded in New Jersey that shook residents in surrounding states and New York City on Friday morning was one of the strongest in state history.

The temblor was reported about 5 miles north of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, at about 10:23 a.m. Friday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The epicenter was about 45 miles from New York City, where residents reported shaking furniture and floors.

“Earthquakes in this region are uncommon but not unexpected. It’s likely people near the epicenter are going to feel aftershocks for this earthquake in the magnitude 2-3 range, and there’s a small chance there can be an earthquake as large or larger, following an earthquake like this,” Paul Earle, a seismologist at the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program told reporters. “In terms of our operations, this is a routine earthquake … Immediately we knew this would be of high interest and important to people who don’t feel earthquakes a lot.”

People reported feeling the shaking as far north as Maine and as far south as Norfolk, Virginia, following the quake, according to USGS. Scientists said those in the affected area should listen to local emergency officials and be prepared to seek cover if aftershocks occur.

“If you feel shaking, drop, cover and hold,” Earle said.

No major disruptions or damage have been reported in New Jersey or New York.

"We have activated our State Emergency Operations Center. Please do not call 911 unless you have an actual emergency," said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.

President Joe Biden spoke with Murphy about the earthquake and the White House is monitoring the situation.

“He thinks everything's under control,” Biden told reporters before leaving the White House for a trip to Baltimore. “He’s not too concerned about it, the governor of New Jersey, so things are all right.”

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the quake was felt throughout New York, and officials are assessing impacts and any potential damage.

In Yonkers, New York, Mayor Mike Spano said City Hall shook but no injuries were reported.

"A few moments ago our entire house shook for about 25 seconds or so here in Mendham, New Jersey," former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said.

USGS is still investigating the exact fault line at the center of Friday’s quake and said it occurred in a region with dozens of fault lines that were more active millions of years ago.

4.0 magnitude aftershock strikes hours after earthquake

Officials in New York and New Jersey alerted residents to an aftershock Friday evening, nearly eight hours after the earthquake.

A 4.0 magnitude aftershock slammed New Jersey at around 6 p.m., with an epicenter about four miles southwest of Gladstone, according to the USGS. New York City’s emergency notification system alerted residents to the aftershock minutes later, urging people to remain indoors and call 911 if injured.

Hochul said there were no reports of serious damage after the aftershock, and officials were continuing to assess critical infrastructure.

The aftershock Friday evening was at least the third that USGS recorded after the quake struck.

As of Friday afternoon, the USGS aftershock forecast predicted a 36% chance of aftershocks at a 3.0 magnitude or higher, an 8% chance of aftershocks at a 4.0 magnitude or higher, and a 1% chance for aftershocks at a magnitude of 5.0 or higher over the next week.

USGS scientists said informal observations can be a big help in understanding earthquakes, especially in a region where they’re less common.

“We encourage people to fill out the ‘Did You Feel It?’ reports on our website,” said Sara McBride, a scientist with the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program. “This citizen science project is critical in terms of building our knowledge around earthquakes.”

By midafternoon on Friday, the agency said it had received more than 161,000 reports, and extrapolated that the quake had been felt by millions of people. McBride acknowledged that earthquakes can be nerve-wracking for people who don’t live in seismologically active regions, and said knowledge is power in combatting that discomfort.

“The best thing you can do to relieve any unsettling feelings you might have is to learn how to protect yourself during shaking and how to prepare for earthquakes in the future,” she said.

Man getting vasectomy during earthquake recounts experience

One Horsham, Pennsylvania, man shared his unusual earthquake experience, saying the tremors hit when he was in the middle of receiving a vasectomy.

"The surgeon sort of froze and all of us kind of seemed a bit confused," Justin Allen told USA TODAY . "Even when the surgeon said 'that’s gotta be an earthquake,' I thought he was joking."

Luckily, Allen's doctor was able to resume the procedure after a brief pause, and the rest went off without a hitch. Now recovering at home, Allen said it's an experience no one involved will forget, especially because his social media post about the incident has since gone viral.

"My wife says that 'this is a clear and obvious sign that we should not have any more kids,'" Allen said.

New Jersey resident thought sound from earthquake was an explosion

Madeline Nafus had just finished feeding her 7-week-old baby when, simultaneously, she was thrown off balance and the loudest sound she’d ever heard rang out.

“I thought it was either an explosion or a bombing because of how loud it was,” said Nafus, who lives in Long Valley, New Jersey, a few miles from the earthquake's epicenter. “It was just terrifying.”

Nafus, 29, watched as her light fixtures swung and wine glasses, framed photos and a 6-foot elk head crashed onto the floor. Feeling as if her “house was going to crumble,” she picked up her baby boy, grabbed some blankets and headed outside. Meanwhile, her friend came running downstairs and picked up Nafus’ quivering dog, Olivia, a small golden doodle.

After about 15 seconds, the rumbling went away and only occasional, minor tremors could be felt. Nafus called her husband, who was teaching a golf lesson at the time, and then their 2-year-old’s day care.

“They said the children were all confused and asking a lot of questions but that they were OK,” she said.'

How common are East Coast quakes?

Earthquakes are less frequent in the eastern part of the country than in the west, but they have occurred in every state east of the Mississippi River, according to the USGS.

"Since colonial times people in the New York – Philadelphia – Wilmington urban corridor have felt small earthquakes and suffered damage from infrequent larger ones," according to the USGS. "Moderately damaging earthquakes strike somewhere in the urban corridor roughly twice a century, and smaller earthquakes are felt roughly every two to three years."

USGS officials also said that even smaller-magnitude quakes are more likely to be felt more widely on the East Coast than similar size quakes on the West Coast due to the rock properties of eastern soil, which can cause concern to East Coasters not used to the tremors.

Rocks in the eastern part of the country are much older than in the west, by up to millions of years. Those older rocks have been exposed to more extreme temperatures and pressure, and faults have had more time to heal. Seismic waves travel across the resulting harder and denser faults much more efficiently, so the effects of a quake are felt across a larger area. In the West, faults are newer and absorb more of the seismic wave energy without spreading as far.

Quake felt in Massachusetts

In Auburn, Massachusetts, more than 200 miles from the earthquake's epicenter, Jerry Steinhelper was on a video call for work when his house began to tremble. His dog Maize started barking, and books and trinkets fell from their shelves. He looked out the window and saw trees shaking.

“I thought at first it may be ice falling off the roof. But it kept going and the entire house was shaking,” he told USA TODAY. “Then I just knew it was an earthquake.”

Steinhelper, 55, lived in San Diego in the 1980s and experienced temblors there, but he’s never felt one in Massachusetts, where he’s been for over 25 years.

“It was an interesting 10 to 15 seconds,” he said.

'It felt like a plane crashed outside' near epicenter

Nicole Kravitz, 33, was baking muffins at the cafe she co-owns with her husband in New Jersey when the floor began to shake. She and the cooks looked at each other for a few moments, and then at some stacked plates and glasses that had started vibrating.

Their eatery, Branchburg's Best, is located in New Jersey's Somerset County, near the epicenter of Friday’s earthquake.

“It felt like a plane crashed outside,” she said. “No one knew what was happening.”

Some workers ran out the door to see if something had smashed into the building while she checked the basement for damage. Meanwhile, Patrick Tucker, her husband, who was picking up beef from a nearby farm, watched agitated chickens and cows run around in their pens, visibly shaken by the quake.

Kravitz said the intensity of the earthquake made her feel like she was back in Southern California, where she had lived for several years before she returned to her home state in 2016.

Quake was one of the strongest to ever impact New Jersey

Friday's earthquake was the most significant in New Jersey since 1884 , when an Aug. 10 earthquake somewhere near Jamaica Bay, New York, toppled chimneys and moved houses off their foundations as far as Rahway, New Jersey, 30 miles away.

Other than that quake, there were only  three earthquakes in modern history  that caused damage in the state: 1737 (New York City), 1783 (west of New York City) and 1927 (New Jersey coast near Asbury), according to New Jersey Office of Emergency Management records.

The Dec. 19, 1737 earthquake is believed by modern experts to have been a 5.2 magnitude quake. Charted as taking place in the greater New York City area, some accounts say its epicenter was near Weehawken. State records show it threw down chimneys. Chimneys were also hurled down during the Nov. 29, 1783 quake. Estimated at a 5.3 magnitude that originated in modern-day Rockaway Township, according to state records, it was felt from Pennsylvania to New England.

The Aug. 10, 1884 quake, estimated at a 5.2 magnitude was the last the state has seen of its significance and was felt from Virginia to Maine, according to state records.

  Read more about New Jersey's earthquake history.

– David M. Zimmer, NorthJersey.com

New Jersey business owner describes worst quake ever felt but went right back to work

It was a busy day for La Bella Salon & Spa in Lebanon, New Jersey, when an earthquake struck near the rural township.

About a dozen stylists and customers, some whom were getting their hair dyed while others got manicures and eyelash extensions, all froze as the building rattled for about 30 seconds.

“People started to feel the shaking, and it got worse and worse. We were like ‘Oh, my god, what is going on?’" said shop owner Rosanne Drechsel. “I thought a truck hit the building or something.”

After the tremor subsided, nearly everyone in the building started receiving texts and phone calls from friends and family, Drechsel, 61, said.

Nothing was damaged and no one was injured, but Drechsel, who was born and raised in New Jersey, said it was “by far the worst earthquake” she had ever felt.

“We all went back to work and finished the appointments,” she said. “Customers are calling now to see if we're still open and if they can still make their appointments later on today.”

'It was scary': Quake rattles shelves in Brooklyn bodega

In Brooklyn, residents said they felt their buildings shake and many went outdoors after the rumbling stopped to check in with neighbors.

Julio Melo, a deli worker, said he thought the sounds of the earthquake resembled those of a large truck going down the street. But when Melo, 32, looked around and saw beer bottles rattling on store shelves, and a potted plant shimmy down the counter, he thought it might be something bigger, he told USA TODAY.

“I looked at my employee and he had the same tragic face on as me, it was scary,” he said at Jenesis’ Grocery Corp. in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood.

– Claire Thornton

Where was the earthquake felt?

Residents and officials said the earthquake was felt throughout New York, as well as in New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and elsewhere. It was also felt as far away as Cambridge, Massachusetts, about 250 miles away from the reported epicenter.

Charita Walcott, a 38-year-old resident in the Bronx borough of New York, said the quake felt "like a violent rumble that lasted about 30 seconds or so."

"It was kind of like being in a drum circle, that vibration," she said.

Earthquakes common in the region, but the size is unusual: Expert

Chuck Ver Straeten, a geologist and curator of sedimentary rocks at the New York State Museum, told USA TODAY it’s not surprising this earthquake happened where it did.

“New York, around New York City going into New Jersey, there’s a lot of earthquakes historically down there. Happens every year,” he said. But it’s less common for them to be of such a high magnitude. It’s not surprising that many people felt it, he said. Usually, earthquakes in the region are at a lower magnitude and less likely to be felt.

Ver Straeten said the real question now is if this is just a precursor to a larger quake.

“You never know what is the earthquake, what is a pre-earthquake, what is an earthquake happening after the main earthquake, you just have to see,” he said. “One slip along the rock fault, when one happens, it makes other areas around there more tense also and they start to slip and you slip again and slip again.”

But, he added, it would be unlikely for a larger quake to follow this one. In the Northeast, it’s more common for one large quake to be followed by smaller aftershocks, rather than a mounting series of tremors. 

What does magnitude mean in an earthquake?

Magnitude is a measurement of the strength of an earthquake . Officially it's called the Moment Magnitude Scale . It's a logarithmic scale , meaning each number is ten times as strong as the one before it. So a 5.2 earthquake is moderate while a 6.2 is strong.

The magnitude and effect of an earthquake, according to Michigan Technological University :

◾ Below 2.5: Generally not felt

◾ 2.5 to 5.4: Minor or no damage

◾ 5.5 to 6.0: Slight damage to buildings

◾ 6.1 to 6.9: Serious damage

◾ 8.0 or greater: Massive damage, can totally destroy communities

Intensity scales, measured in Roman numerals, are used to describe how strong the earthquake felt to people in the area.

According to the California Earthquake Authority , an intensity of I is typically felt only under especially favorable conditions. A IV, which leads to light shaking, is felt indoors by many, but not typically outdoors. It might awaken some people at night and lead to a sensation like a truck striking a building. A parked car would rock. Intensities VI and above would be strong, frightening and felt by all, with the damage increasing up to a X where the shaking would be violent. Some well-built wooden structures would be destroyed and most masonry and frame structures along with their foundations would be ruined.

While you might have heard the term " the Richter Scale " used to describe earthquakes, it is no longer commonly used because it was only valid for certain earthquake frequencies and distance ranges.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Contributing: Reuters

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Russia and Kazakhstan evacuate tens of thousands amid worst floods in decades

Kremlin official warns of more difficult days ahead after towns and cities overwhelmed by major rivers swollen by snowmelt

Russia and Kazakhstan have ordered more than 100,000 people to evacuate after swiftly melting snow swelled rivers beyond bursting point in the worst flooding in the area for at least 70 years.

The deluge of meltwater overwhelmed many settlements in the Ural mountains, Siberia and areas of Kazakhstan close to rivers such as the Ural and Tobol, which local officials said had risen by metres in a matter of hours to the highest levels ever recorded.

The Ural, Europe’s third-largest river, which flows through Russia and Kazakhstan into the Caspian, burst through an embankment dam on Friday , flooding the city of Orsk, south of the Ural mountains.

Water levels downstream in Orenburg, a city of about 550,000, were rising.

Sirens in Kurgan, a city on the Tobol, a tributary of the Irtysh, warned people to evacuate immediately. An emergency was also declared in Tyumen, a major oil-producing region of Western Siberia, the largest hydrocarbon basin in the world.

“The difficult days are still ahead for the Kurgan and Tyumen regions,” the Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters. “There is a lot of water coming.“

The Russian president, Vladimir Putin, spoke to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, where more than 86,000 people have been evacuated owing to flooding. Tokayev said the flooding was probably the worst in 80 years.

The most severely hit areas are Atyrau, Aktobe, Akmola, Kostanai, Eastern Kazakhstan, Northern Kazakhstan and Pavlodar regions, most of which border Russia and are crossed by rivers originating in Russia such as the Ural and the Tobol.

In Russia, anger boiled over in Orsk when at least 100 Russians implored the Kremlin to help and chanted “shame on you” at local officials who they said had done too little.

The Kremlin said Putin was getting updated constantly on the situation but that he had no immediate plans to visit the flood zone as local and emergency officials were doing their best to cope with the deluge.

In Kurgan, a region with about 800,000 people, drone footage showed traditional Russian wooden houses and the golden cupolas of Russian Orthodox churches stranded among a vast expanse of water.

In Orenburg, a city of more than half a million, people paddled along roads as if they were rivers. Dams and embankments were being strengthened as the Ural rose to nearly 10 metres high.

Russian officials have said some people ignored calls to evacuate. The Kurgan governor, Vadim Shumkov, urged residents to take the warnings seriously.

“We understand you very well. It is hard to leave your possessions and move somewhere at the call of the local authorities,” Shumkov said. “It’s better that we laugh at the hydrologists together later and praise God for the miracle of our common salvation. But let’s do it alive.“

In Kurgan, water levels were rising in the Tobol and Russia said 19,000 people were at risk in the region.

Rising water was also forecast in Siberia’s Ishim River, also a tributary of the Irtysh, which along with its parent, the Ob, forms the world’s seventh-longest river system.

It was not immediately clear why this year’s floods were so bad as the snowmelt is an annual event in Russia. Scientists say climate change has made flooding more frequent worldwide.

• Extreme weather
• South and central Asia

More on this story

Russia floods: waters rising in two cities and thousands evacuated after dam bursts

Schools close and crops wither as ‘historic’ heatwave hits south-east Asia

Weather tracker: Cyclone Gamane unexpectedly veers into Madagascar

Weather tracker: Tornadoes hit central US, killing three

South Sudan closes schools in preparation for 45C heatwave

Weather tracker: Much of southern Australia on heatwave alert

Extreme weather in Italy and France brings avalanches, floods and landslides

Weather tracker: Contrasts in cold and heat break records in China

Weather tracker: Flash flooding in Oman and record temperatures in Western Australia

Most viewed.

Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

More from CBS News

Here's how to get a tax extension from the IRS in 2024

Truck plows into Texas DPS office in "intentional" act, killing 1, officials say

TSA found more than 1,500 guns at airport checkpoints in 1st quarter of 2024

"Sunday Morning" archives: Impressionism at 150

World Map » Australia » State » South Australia » Large Detailed Map Of South Australia With Cities And Towns

Large detailed map of South Australia with cities and towns

You may download, print or use the above map for educational, personal and non-commercial purposes. Attribution is required. For any website, blog, scientific research or e-book, you must place a hyperlink (to this page) with an attribution next to the image used.

• Australia maps

Cities of Australia

• Sunshine Coast
• Noosa Heads
• Maroochydore

States and territories

• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Australian Capital Territory
• Norfolk Island
• North America Map
• South America Map
• Oceania Map

Popular maps

• New York City Map
• Los Angeles Map
• Las Vegas Map
• Australia Map
• Germany Map
• Netherlands Map
• Singapore Map
• United Arab Emirates Map
• United Kingdom Map
• United States Map

U.S. States

• Arizona Map
• California Map
• Colorado Map
• Florida Map
• Georgia Map
• Illinois Map
• Indiana Map
• Michigan Map
• New Jersey Map
• New York Map
• North Carolina Map
• Virginia Map
• Wisconsin Map

Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.