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Home » Oceania » Australia » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Australia | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Australia | Destinations & Tips for 2024

There is nothing that can make you feel as liberated and independent as traveling on your own. With dynamic cities, a remote outback, beautiful coastlines, and a bunch of cool backpackers to meet, Australia is one of the best countries to visit solo.

Travelling solo in Australia is super safe, it’s easy to get around, and there are plenty of adventures to be had. No wonder tons of gap year tourists and solo females choose to explore this massive island country. The only downside is that it isn’t the most affordable place to visit, but put in perspective, travelling Australia alone is well worth the price.

With an active outdoor lifestyle and a big beach scene, visiting Australia solo gives you the space for personal growth and development. Hostels make it easy to meet and make friends – and just about everyone speaks English here. Locals are friendly and funny, so you’ll never have an issue finding your way around!

If you are looking to travel the land down under on your own, here are my top recommendations of where to go, what to do, and how to prepare for your trip.

5 Things to Do in Australia When Traveling Solo

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With incredible natural scenery, including mountains, barrier reefs, and deserts, Australia embodies an outdoorsy and active culture. Whether you’re backpacking the East Coast or hitting up Western Australia, is a haven for solo travellers. Check out these five activities you can do on your own in Australia…

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1. Island Hop Through the Whitsunday Islands

If there is one natural attraction worthwhile visiting on your Australian solo travel adventure, it’s the Great Barrier Reef coastline. With 74 sandbanks and tropical islands, there’s no need to choose just one island in the Whitsundays to visit. 

Instead, joining a group island-hopping trip along this picturesque coastline is an incredible way to see this Great Barrier Reef region. (If you’re looking to snorkel the reef itself, Cairns is a better option).

Since most islands are protected as a national park, you must visit with a planned tour . From luxury yachts to paddle boats, there are ways to explore the Whitsundays for all budgets. 

2. Experience Australian History in the Red Center

The Red Center is the heart of old Australia. Set right in the middle of the country, this is an impressive landscape of deserts, mountains, rocky gorges, and some of the most sacred Aboriginal sites. The region isn’t overpopulated with tourists, purely because it’s challenging to get to.

Uluru and Kara Tjuta are two exceptional locations in the Outback worth visiting to gain a deeper understanding of the Aboriginal culture and heritage. Here, you can watch the colours of the rock change at sunset while listening to local string melodies on the didgeridoo.

3. Hang out at the hostels 

Look, solo travel in Australia is just as much about kicking back and enjoying the simple life with new amazing travel buddies as it is about seeing world-famous attractions. All my most fond memories here involve nothing more than sharing a box of goon and a couple of joints with strangers who become dear, dear mates.

4. Taste the Best Wine of Barossa Valley, Adelaide

Famous for being one of the world’s most significant wine-producing regions, Barossa Valley near Adelaide is home to over 150 wineries, as well as many of the world’s longest-continuously produced wine variants.

Aside from great wine, the region is one of the best Australian solo travel destinations , resembling a Tuscan dreamscape. Naturally, one of the best things to do here is to taste the famous wines, dine at exceptional establishments, and stroll through the lush vineyards. This is a great activity to enjoy solo, but also an easy way to meet other travellers and locals.

5. Take A Bike Tour Through the Mornington Peninsula, Melbourne

Located just south of the busy city of Melbourne, The Mornington Peninsula is a suburban landscape that blends seaside charm with lush vineyards. You’ll find golden beaches, vineyard-lined hills, and exciting forests here, with each landscape offering its own choice of adventure and activity. 

One of the best ways to experience the region is to join a bike tour through the peninsula. There are plenty of tours to join, stopping off at well-known restaurants, hot springs, and gorgeous beaches.

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Sometimes the best company is your own. Whether you prefer your own space or want to meet like-minded travellers, here is our pick of the best places to travel solo in Australia:

After visiting Melbourne , I can safely say it is my favourite city in Australia. With a considerable amount of buzzing neighbourhoods to explore, Melbourne is also one of Australia’s most popular cities. It has been called one of the most livable cities in the world, so it certainly is worth a visit to see what the hype is about. 

Melbourne is best known for its high-end food scene, Australia’s best coffee, and incredible art exhibitions and museums. It’s also the fashion capital of Australia, with streets lined with trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife.

You can’t say you’ve visited Melbourne without driving the Great Ocean Road. Expect an Aussie road trip packed with incredible scenery along this scenic drive, passing the famous surf spots of Torquay and Bells Beach, kangaroos hopping across golf courses, and the Twelve Apostle rock formations. Aside from renting a car, this activity won’t cost you a cent!

Selina Central Melbourne is an excellent example of Selina’s good reputation. Centrally located with a communal kitchen, bar, and co-working space, it’s the ideal budget city accommodation.

You just have to visit Byron Bay – Australia’s premier beach town. What was once a sleepy coastal town blossomed into a hippie centre in the ’60s. Today, it’s home to an eclectic mix of high-fashion socialites and laid-back surfers, with a patchwork offering of trendy bars, low-key restaurants, yoga studios, and incredible beaches.

The best thing to do when travelling solo in Australia’s Byron Bay is to enjoy time on the beach, typically packed with locals and visitors on any given day. When the sun sets, make your way to one of the town’s vibrant restaurants and enjoy a drink with new friends at a rooftop bar.

The town is by no means cheap, but there are ways to save money. Staying in budget accommodation is one of them. Naturally, the most affordable activities here involve spending time outdoors. Start by hiking the Cape Byron Walking Track and cycle to The Farm in Byron Bay.

The colourful community welcomes newcomers, and staying in a hostel here is the best way to find an in with the in-crowds. The Surf House is Byron Bays’ premier hostel. Just a few minutes from the Main Beach, the hostel has a rooftop bar and unique shared rooms perfect for solo travellers in Australia.

The heart of Australia’s active lifestyle, Cairns is a friendly town known for its incredible natural beauty. Set between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest (two listed UNESCO World Heritage Sites), backpack up to Cairns for the gateway of Tropical North Queensland with a subtropical climate. 

Again, the best (and most affordable) things to do here involve spending your time in nature. Rent some snorkelling gear and explore the underwater world of Ciarns, or take the more adrenaline-pumping alternative and jump 50 meters off Australia’s only bunjy jump. If you don’t want to do the jump, the platform alone offers some of the best views of the surrounding region.

The Daintree Rainforest, just an hour’s drive away, can be visited on a group tour or even when travelling Australia solo, and it is an exciting activity to uncover more about the ancient rainforest cultures.

As the day draws to a close, there’s no better place to grab a bite than at the Cairns Night Market, which has a lively atmosphere perfect for meeting locals and other travellers.

For the perfect combination of a relaxed and social atmosphere, Travellers Oasis Backpackers offers comfortable, safe, and clean accommodation for budget solo travellers.

Although the capital of Tasmania, Hobart is a small and historic city surrounded by nature. Best of all, this city is an incredible location for solo travellers, with tons of activities that are safe and fun to do alone.

Some of the best things to do in Hobart include taking a tour of Bruny Island, where delicious chocolate and cheese meet spectacular wildlife. Visiting the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, watching a performance at the Salamanca Arts Center, or admiring an art exhibition at Mona are musts for culture vultures. If you want a quick intro to the city’s major attractions, hop on a hop-on-hop-off bus.

Open yourself up to a social event at the Cascades Brewery, Australia’s oldest operating craft brewery. You never know; you might just meet a new friend willing to summit nearby Mount Wellington with you.

In the historic village of Battery Point, Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse is close to restaurants and markets. The locally owned hostel has a large shared kitchen, living room, and laundry facilities.

Adelaide is an Australian solo traveller’s paradise for a few reasons. It’s easily accessible, with a compact city centre that makes it easy to explore on foot. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy and a bunch of cool people to meet in Adelaide’s great hostels .

When it comes to natural scenery, Adelaide deserves an accolade. The capital city of South Australia is perfectly-positioned just a short drive from the iconic Outback. While possible to do alone, I recommend visiting the outback with a tour group or a new group of friends. This way, you can access off-the-beaten-track hikes and trails and explore million-year-old mountains more confidently.

Adelaide is also known for its stretched-out coastline, overflowing with abundant sealife that feeds the country’s high-end seafood scene. The city is also the host of many sporting events and festivals. If you’ve always wanted to lay eyes on a koala bear, plenty of these cuddly creatures call the Adelaide Hills home.

Adelaide Central YHA is one of the best backpackers in the city. With newly renovated rooms, free Wi-Fi, and other modern facilities, it offers safe, clean, and friendly budget accommodations for solo travellers.

• Hostelworld: The best app for searching and booking hostels and backpackers
• Booking.com and Airbnb : Great for finding hotel and bed and breakfast accommodation
• PackPoint : A helpful app to help you make sure you pack all the necessities for your trip
• Couchsurfer : Suitable for budget travellers but not recommended for solo female travellers in Australia
• Viator and Get Your Guide : Useful for browsing and booking tours and day trips
• Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble : Designed to meet and socialize with others in your vicinity
• Trail Wallet : A great way to stick to your budget when travelling in an expensive country
• Backpackr : A social media app designed for meeting travellers nearby
• WhatsApp Messenger : The leading messaging app used by most locals in Australia
• Holafly : An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

It’s also a good idea to join local Facebook groups designed for travellers or ex-pats in Australia. Groups like ‘ Melbourne Meetups,’ ‘Traveling Tasmania, ’ and ‘ Australia Backpackers’ are some of the most popular.

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Unlike many other destinations, your most significant safety concerns as a tourist in Australia are the unfriendly wild animals, as opposed to crime. That said, any big city poses a risk of petty theft and unwelcome crime, so vigilance is essential. 

Watch your belongings at all times, especially in crowded places or where you might be distracted. When you go out at night, always keep an eye on your drinks, especially if you are a solo female traveller in Australia. Although spiked drinks are uncommon here, you can never rule out risk.

I always share my live location with family and friends back home, as well as with a new friend I trust in the city I am visiting. I also recommend staying in a female-only dorm if you are travelling solo as a female-identifying person.

Steer clear of unfriendly animals in the outback while hiking or at the beach. There are a few dangerous animals to keep an eye out for. I’m talking about box jellyfish, snakes, spiders, sharks, crocodiles, and even octopuses.

Lastly, use all the sun protection . The sun is powerful in the land down under, and sunstroke can put a real damper on a great adventure.

• Staying in hostels is the easiest way to make friends in any new place. Many of the best hostels in Australia even have bars and organize daily group activities. The perfect combo between a villa and a hostel, Stoke Beach House is one of Sydney’s premier surf hostels.
• Plan some booked adventures or tours . Even if group tours aren’t your thing, I advise booking a few activities in advance. Not only are these a great way to meet other travellers, but they offer a different perspective of a location. This Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Course is an excellent example of a tour that could be booked out fast!
• Take advantage of freebies . Travelling solo in Australia can get expensive – fast. Check social media groups to find free events in the area you visit. Most big cities offer free cultural days where you can visit different museums, castles, and historic homes at no cost.
• Keep some flexibility in your itinerary . While booking some pre-planned activities is a good idea, keeping your plans flexible is essential. When you meet the right people, you’ll want to chop and change your itinerary and the places you visit.
• Plan your own trip – it’s your Australian backpacking adventure . Template itineraries found on the internet can be helpful for research, but I recommend that you plan your own trip according to the activities you most enjoy.
• Use public transport . Australian cities have some of the world’s most efficient and affordable public transport systems. Take advantage of this service and save costs on Uber and taxis, which are a sure way to blow through your budget super fast.
• Be social , but appreciate spending time on your own. Travelling alone can be lonely, but it is also so rewarding. Be friendly with others in your hostel and tour groups, but also remember to be satisfied spending time alone.
• One of the best tips for solo travel in Australia is to visit during the right time of year . September to November and March through May are the best times to visit the country. These months fall between seasons, meaning you’ll skip the crowds while taking advantage of lower prices before tourist season begins.
• Get good travel insurance . I can’t stress this enough. Although the country is safe regarding crime, Australia is home to its fair share of dangerous animals. Make sure you have insurance that covers things like snake bites and jellyfish stings.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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• Use social media : Facebook groups advertise different events you can attend to meet new friends. Dating apps are another way to meet people. Most apps can be switched from dating to friendship, making it easy to find people with similar interests within your vicinity.
• Stay in a hostel : When choosing where to stay in Australia , opting for a hostel is one of the best ways to meet new people. Especially if you stay in a shared room, it’s hard not to make friends when sharing accommodation with others. 
• Attend cultural events : Besides tours, joining other cultural activities, including cooking courses and cultural immersion experiences, is another excellent way to meet others while travelling solo.
• Keep an open mind and be confident and friendly : Make sure you keep an open mind about meeting new people. Be available when others need advice or directions or want photos taken, and remain approachable by being friendly and welcoming.
• Join group tours : Whether you join a tour hosted by your hostel or an independent tour guide, group tours and activities are one of the best ways to meet others while abroad . Chances are those joining the same trip will have similar interests to yours!
• Join a gym or sports team : Short-term memberships at sports clubs, gyms, or co-working spaces are an excellent way for solo travellers in Australia to meet other travellers.
• Join a pub crawl : Often organized by hostels or youth organizations, pub crawls (or other social events) make it easy to visit new areas of the city while meeting new friends in a casual social environment.
• Volunteer : Volunteering in Australia with a local organization is not only a great way to give back, but it is also great for meeting others with similar humanitarian interests as your own.

Australia was an absolutely mental place to visit alone. It was the first solo trip I took that kick-started my deep passion for self-exploration through global exploration.

The country is an outdoor lovers’ paradise, and there is nothing more liberating and character-building than travelling solo. Put these two together, and we have ourselves a winning location for solo travellers. With an incredible outdoorsy scene, incredible natural beauty, dynamic and safe cities, and plenty of budget accommodations available, solo travellers in Australia could spend their days learning to surf in Byron Bay and evenings dancing the night away with new friends. 

With cultural influences from Aborinonals and British settlers, as well as other island nations, Australia has a unique history and cultural scene. The country is most famous for its natural wonders and wide open spaces, including ‘The Outback’ and ‘The Bush.’ But it’s also famous for its metropolitan centres, with four mega-cities; Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.

Massive and varied, the country truly has something to offer every traveller. Whether you enjoy spending your time lounging on beautiful beaches, tasting incredible food, or adventuring into the unknown Outback, you’re guaranteed to have an exciting time travelling solo in Australia.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Solo travel in Australia: everything you need to know

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• solo-travel-in-australia

written by Shafik Meghji

updated 7.05.2021

Australia remains a classic travel destination. A steady stream of solo traveller gap-year backpackers, career breakers and round-the-world-trippers head down under to sample Sydney’s energetic nightlife, visit the Great Barrier Reef, marvel at Uluru , cuddle a koala and learn to surf.

The must-see destinations

Getting around.

• Where to stay

Where to eat (and drink)

How to meet people, appreciate being on your own.

The country is a great place for solo travellers, particularly first-timers – it’s friendly, fun and full of opportunities to meet people. Many travellers end up staying longer than they planned – and some never leave.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Australia, created by local experts

12 days  / from 2900 USD

Explore Western Australia from Perth to Broome

Western Australia is the country's largest state, covering more than a third of Australia. This self drive itinerary allows you to explore sunny Perth, stunning national parks and waterfalls, the remote wild west outback, empty beaches and much more.

16 days  / from 3300 USD

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory on this self-drive adventure. Start in Adelaide and make your way over the Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, and Alice Springs to the Kakadu National Park and ultimately Darwin.

23 days  / from 4150 USD

Cross Western Australia to Darwin

Western Australia offers wonderfully remote outback experiences: from spectacular national parks to sandy deserts, pristine beaches to working cattle stations. This itinerary allows you to explore the way from Perth to Darwin in depth and at your own pace, in your own rental car.

14 days  / from 10070 USD

Classic Australia - Sydney, Melbourne and Gold Coast

Explore the best of Australia's cities and nature! From Sydney and Melbourne's urban charm to the scenic wonders of the Great Ocean Road, Cairns' reef adventures, to the lush rainforests of Kuranda. End with nature's embrace at Burleigh Head and Lamington National Parks on the Gold Coast.

10 days  / from 6900 USD

The Best of Australia

Discover Australia's allure through this tour! You'll witness Sydney's iconic landmarks and explore the beauty of the Blue Mountains. Dive into Cairns' reef and rainforest wonders before marveling at the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Road in Melbourne.

One of the world’s great cities, Sydney is the ideal place to start your trip. As well as landmarks like the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach, it has a lively backpacker scene and eating, drinking and nightlife options to suit all budgets and tastes.

Cosmopolitan Melbourne is the country’s second-biggest city. As well as being a foodie and cultural hub, it has the country’s premier sports ground, the MCG – watching an Aussie Rules, rugby or cricket match here is an unforgettable experience.

Queensland is home to some of Australia’s most famous attractions: the Great Barrier Reef, the scenic Whitsundays , the beach resorts of the Gold Coast , and Fraser Island , which is covered with giant sand dunes.

© Uwe Aranas/Shutterstock

No trip is complete without a visit to Uluru (Ayers Rock), which lies in the centre of the country, deep in the Outback. Regardless of how many photos you’ve seen of “The Rock”, nothing prepares you for experiencing it first-hand.

It’s also well worth heading off the beaten track. For example, the temperate wilderness of Tasmania feels very different to the rest of the country, the tropical Northern Territory has some of the country’s best national parks, and South Australia offers great vineyards and a beautiful coastline.

Australia is the sixth largest country in the world – at almost 7.7 square kilometres it is 31.5 times bigger than the UK – and getting around takes time.

Most people fly between states, and competition means fares are pretty good value. For shorter journeys – or tighter budgets – Greyhound buses connect all the main tourist destinations.

Australia is also a great place to drive , enabling you to explore at your own pace and get off the tourist trail. Campervans are particularly economical, as they double up as accommodation. Vehicles are easy to hire, but if you’re travelling for several months it is often cheaper to buy a secondhand vehicle and then sell it on again at the end of your trip.

Hostels are great places to meet other backpackers, and most organise social activities – often for free – including barbecues and pub crawls. The YHA, which offers accommodation in everything from former prisons to historic mansions, is a good place to start.

Another option is a homestay, which provide the opportunity to meet locals and stay in a family environment.

Many people feel self-conscious about eating out (or going for a drink) on their own, but it’s increasingly common, especially in the cities.

Most hostels have a café, restaurant or bar where you won’t stand out as a solo diner and are likely to meet fellow travellers. More and more restaurants have communal tables, and food markets – such as Mindil Beach Sunset Market in Darwin and Adelaide Central Market – are sociable places to eat, too.

It’s also easy to strike up a conversation with a stranger in an Aussie pub (which, confusingly, are often called “hotels”).

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Working in Australia is a rite of passage and a great way to meet people, get under the skin of the country and fund your travels.

Twelve-month working holiday visas are available for 18 to 30-year-olds from most European countries (including the UK and Ireland), Canada, Japan and Korea. US citizens need to apply for a “work and holiday visa”. For more information, visit www.border.gov.au.

Officially, no job should last longer than six months, and most travellers end up working on farms or doing bar, construction and other casual work.

It may seem counter-intuitive, but you’re far more likely to meet new people if you’re travelling on your own, rather than in a couple or with friends. You’ve got an added incentive to break the ice and try out new things – and will also seem more approachable to the countless other solo travellers out there.

Taking part in group activities is another easy way to meet people. For example, you could climb Sydney Harbour Bridge , take a 4WD trip across the giant sand dunes of Fraser Island, go wine tasting in the Barossa Valley or spot dolphins on a Coral Coast cruise.

And Australians themselves are (generally) very sociable, welcoming and happy to talk to strangers.

Cape Range National Park, Ningaloo Marine Park © Darkydoors/Shutterstock

You will feel lonely and homesick at some point. But you’ll also never have as much freedom than when travelling on your own – you can go wherever you want, whenever you want and do whatever you want, without worrying about anyone else.

Some of Australia’s epic landscapes – sunset at Uluru, driving down the Great Ocean Road – are best appreciated alone.

And although it may sound cliched, you’ll learn a lot more about yourself when you travel on your own.

You will find plenty of ideas for your Australian solo trip in our guide to the best things to do in Australia .

Shafik Meghji co-authors The Rough Guide to Australia . He blogs at unmappedroutes.com .

Top image © GagliardiPhotography/Shutterstock

Shafik is an award-winning travel writer, journalist and co-author of more than 40 Rough Guides to destinations across Latin America, Asia, Oceania, Europe and North Africa. A regular contributor to the Rough Guide to Everywhere podcast, he writes and takes photos for BBC Travel, Wanderlust and Atlas Obscura, among others. His new book, Crossed Off The Map: Travels in Bolivia, will be published in late 2021. Follow him @shafikmeghji on Twitter and Instagram .

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Travel advice for Australia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Australia

• Eating and drinking in Australia
• Getting around Australia: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health Australia
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Australia
• How to get to Australia
• Travel Tips Australia for planning and on the go
• Travelling with children in Australia
• Best time to visit Australia

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• Itineraries
• Travel advice

Australia Solo Travel Guide and Adventure Itinerary (2023)

Australia is one of the most popular and diverse solo travel destinations in the world. Head Down Under and you can cuddle a koala, surf the Gold Coast, dive the Great Barrier Reef, catch the sunrise at Uluru and so much more!

In this ultimate guide to solo travel in Australia, you’ll find everything you need to plan the Ozzie adventure of a lifetime.

All the advice is tailored to people who will be travelling alone in Australia, including: the best destinations, things to do and see, accommodation, transport, costs, a packing list, safety tips and much more. 

After Australia, why don’t you continue on to solo travel New Zealand !

• Solo Travel in Australia
• 6 Best Places to Travel Alone
• 10 Best Things to Do and See
• Accommodation
• Best Time to Visit Australia
• Where to Start
• How Long to Spend Travelling
• Costs and Budgeting
• Packing List
• Visas and Entry Requirements
• More guides and tips

Overview of Solo T ravel in Australia

Australia is one of the best solo travel destinations for both first-timers and experienced travellers. 

People love to travel solo in Australia because it is safe, easy to navigate and has an array of famous sites such as Sydney, Bondi Beach, Melbourne, Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, the Great Ocean Road and Kakadu. You will enjoy the relaxed environment and find it easy to make friends with the locals and other solo travellers. 

The most popular solo travel route in Australia is the East Coast (Melbourne – Sydney – Byron Bay – Gold Coast – Cairns). However, if you have enough time, you may also want to travel into The Outback (Uluru, Kakadu, Broome, etc.)

Solo travel around Australia is particularly popular amongst young people (aged 18-30) (both male and female) thanks to its party atmosphere and visa options. However, it is also popular amongst older solo travellers (50+), sometimes referred to as ‘Grey Nomads’ in Australia (famous for travelling around in campervans and motorhomes).

It is easy to find accommodation all over Australia, with hostels and hotels found in every major town and city. It is also easy to arrange transport, with coaches travelling around most of the country and airports in major cities and large regional towns. 

Many people choose to solo travel in Australia during summer (December – February), because they think that the beaches will be more enjoyable in the heat. However, the cooler seasons are a great time to solo travel around Australia because the Northern Tropics are more accessible and it snows in the alpine regions of south-east Australia.

Note that Australia can be an expensive country to solo travel in. It is also a large place and you will need at least 1-3 months if you want to see most of the highlights. 

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary (1-6 Months) : 4 Best Places to Travel Alone

East Coast of Australia (1-3 Months)

Victoria (1 week to 1 month).

Victoria is the second most populous state and is located in the southeast of the country. It is famous for its buzzing metropolitan lifestyle, wine regions, natural wonders and sporting events.

The capital of Victoria is Melbourne. You can fly to Melbourne from many international airports around the world. You can also fly domestically or catch a coach or train from Sydney, Adelaide or Brisbane. Many people start their solo travel in Australia here.

Melbourne is famous for being a cultural hub of Australia and one of the most liveable cities in the world. Wander the laneways and admire the street art before stopping for a coffee (voted the best in the world). Then at night, enjoy a craft beer at a local brewery before hitting the nightclubs or catching a sporting event.

To the west of Melbourne is the Great Ocean Road, one of the most renowned coastal drives in the world. Along the way, stand in awe and admire geological wonders such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. You’ll also get to explore rainforests, waterfalls and Bell’s Beach (the home of surfing in Australia). 

Throughout the Victorian Countryside and the Mornington Peninsula, you will find vineyards responsible for producing some of the world’s best Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir. And when you’re not wining and dining, you can soak away the afternoon in mineral hot baths or cast a line on the Murray River. 

New South Wales (1 Week to 1 Month)

New South Wales is the most populous state in Australia and is located on the East Coast. It is famous for its iconic beaches, monumental landmarks and mountain ranges.

The capital of New South Wales is Sydney. You can fly to Sydney from many international airports around the world. You can also fly domestically or catch a coach or train from Melbourne or Brisbane. 

Sydney is known for its famous landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. It is also home to the famous Bondi Beach and Manly Beach. To the west of Sydney are the Blue Mountains, where you can see towering waterfalls and steep cliffs amongst the blue haze of the eucalyptus forests.

The northern coastline of NSW is lined with long, sandy beaches. The most famous of these is the celebrity hotspot Byron Bay, a hippy community that has become a playground for backpackers and wealthy travellers alike. When you’re not learning to surf, just kick back and relax or hit one of the nightclubs. 

In southern NSW are the Snowy Mountains and Kosciuszko National Park, home to the highest peak in Australia and bush legends such as the Man From the Snowy River. Visit in the winter and you can ski or snowboard at large resorts such as Perisher and Thredbo. 

Queensland (2 Weeks – 1 Month)

Queensland is the most popular destination for solo travel in Australia. This tropical paradise is famous for its sandy beaches, tropical rainforest, vibrant reef and party cities.

The capital of Queensland is Brisbane. You can fly to Brisbane from many international airports around the world. You can also fly domestically or catch a coach or train from Sydney or Melbourne. It is another great starting point for solo travel in Australia.

Brisbane is famous for its sub-tropical climate, riverside walkways, alfresco dining and annual Cockroach Races. It is also close to Stradbroke Island, a whale-watching paradise!

An hour from Brisbane is the Gold Coast, where solo travellers like to party by night and then recover on the beach by day. Here, you will find strips of nightclubs, bars and theme parks filled with young people looking for a good time. Some of the famous surf beaches include Surfer’s Paradise and Burleigh Heads.

A few hours further north is the Sunshine Coast, a more-upmarket beach destination with luxurious hotels and popular hostels. Visit Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo, where you can hand feed kangaroos, pat a koala and watch the croc feeding show. Then catch a ferry to Fraser Island (K’Gari), where vivid blue lakes, rainforests and sand dunes adorn the world’s largest sand island.

In the Tropical North of Queensland, you will find cities such as Townsville and Cairns – both gateways to the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel with turtles and visit heavenly spots such as Hamilton Island and Magnetic Island. Then, delve deep into the oldest rainforest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest.

Tasmania (2 Weeks)

Tasmania is an island state to the south of Australia. Whilst it may not be the most popular place to solo travel in Australia, it is perhaps the most underrated. Tasmania is famous for its spectacular scenery, convict and Aboriginal history, unique wildlife and cultural attractions.

The capital of Tasmania is Hobart. You can fly to Hobart from all of the major airports in Australia. Alternatively, you can catch a ferry to Tasmania from Melbourne.

Hobart is famous for its cultural attractions, such as the Salamanca Markets, which hosts over 300 artisan stalls every Saturday. You should also ride the ferry to the MONA Art Museum, the largest privately-funded museum in the Southern Hemisphere.

The East Coast of Tasmania is spoiled with amazing seafood and scenery, including sights such as Wineglass Bay and the Bay of Fires. You can also visit Port Arthur, which was once a brutal convict settlement but is today one of the best museums in Australia.

The West Coast of Tasmania is wild and rugged but beautiful. Climb Cradle Mountain and look out of vast swathes of remote Australian bushland before circling the crystal clear waters of Lake St Clair. And don’t miss out on the Tasmanian Devil sanctuary!

Western Australia (1-2 Months)

Western Australia is the largest state in Australia (about 3.5 times the size of Texas). It is less popular than the East Coast but is remarkable in its own right. It is famous for its rugged coastline, coral reefs and desert interior.

The capital of Western Australia is Perth. You can fly to Perth from all of the major airports in Australia. Otherwise, it is several days’ drive from Adelaide, Melbourne or Sydney.

Perth is famous for Cottesloe Beach and is a gateway to Rottnest Island, home of the Instagram-famous Quokka (a cute little kangaroo). To the south of Perth is the historic city of Fremantle and the Margaret River surf region. To the north is the Pinnacles Desert, where strange limestone pillars that are 30,000 years old rise out of the sands.

The Western Australian Coastline is vast and takes weeks to travel, but it is host to internationally-renowned marine attractions. Feed dolphins on the shore in Monkey Mia, swim with the whale sharks at Ningaloo Marine Park and ride a camel along Cable Beach in Broome.

The Western Australian Outback is even more vast but is equally remarkable. Explore the red soils, ginormous gorges and hidden swimming holes around Kalbarri National Park, Karijini National Park and the Kimberley. Then see Wave Rock before crossing the desert via the Nullarbor Plain, the longest straight road on the planet (147km/91mi).

The Outback (1 Month)

The Australian Outback may seem dry and deserted but it is one of the most popular destinations for solo travel in Australia. Known as the Red Centre, it is famous for its amber sands, Aboriginal culture, natural wonders and wildlife. 

Most people start their Outback journey in the city of Adelaide, which is surrounded by internationally-renowned wine regions such as the Barossa Valley. Nature lovers will want to see the wildlife on Kangaroo Island or cage dive with Great White Sharks off of Port Lincoln. 

In the centre of Australia is the country’s most iconic landmark, Uluru, which stands 348m tall. Not far away are the equally impressive Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. And you can’t visit the Outback without stopping in the quirky town of Coober Pedy, where the people live underground to escape the heat.

In the north of Australia is Darwin, where you can watch jumping crocodiles on the nearby Adelaide River. And don’t miss Kakadu National Park, where you can see ancient Aboriginal rock art, swim amongst breathtaking gorges, cruise around billabongs and soak in thermal hot springs.

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Australia Solo Travel Itinerary : 10 Best Things to Do and See

1. The Daintree Rainforest

Explore the world’s oldest tropical rainforest (180 million years old) and the place that Sir David Attenborough once called “the most extraordinary place on Earth.”

Delve into the shadowy depths of the Daintree Rainforest, following the boardwalks as they twist and turn underneath the lush canopy and dangling vines. Listen to the sounds of nature and keep an eye out for prehistoric wildlife – including the giant cassowary and crunching saltwater crocodiles. 

After all of that adventure, solo travellers can soak the day away in the trickling waters of Mossman Gorge or Masons Swimming Hole.

2. The Great Barrier Reef

Dive or snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef, which spans over 2,300km of Australia’s eastern coastline and is the largest living organism on Earth. 

Swim between vibrant corals that are 20 million years old and submerge yourself amongst the 1,600 species of fish, turtles, whales and dolphins that call this place home. Then dry yourself off on the soft and sandy shores of havens like Hamilton Island and Green Island.

Just be aware that summer is stinger season on the Great Barrier Reef and temperatures are scorching. It is best for solo travellers to visit during the winter when temperatures are still warm but pleasant and there are no stingers in the water.

3. Byron Bay

Chill out in Australia’s most famous beach town – Byron Bay. This slice of coastal bliss has become internationally renowned for its stunning beaches, laidback lifestyle and fun nightlife. 

Throw yourself into the hippy lifestyle and spend time doing yoga and pilates on the beach with the locals and other solo travellers. Pick up a board and learn to surf on the beautiful stretch of sand that is Main Beach. 

Take a sunset walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse on mainland Australia’s most easterly point. And then party the night away at local pubs and nightclubs like Stone & Wood or Cheeky Monkeys!

Sydney is the largest and most famous city in Australia thanks to its iconic attractions. Most solo travellers spend at least a week here seeing all the sights.

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge on a guided tour before catching a gig at the Opera House next door. Kick back on Bondi Beach before following the coastal walk around to Coogee Beach. Then ride the ferry to Taronga Zoo, where you can snap photos of exotic and native wildlife with the city skyline in the background.

Catch the train for a day trip to the UNESCO World-Heritage Blue Mountains, an hour west of Sydney. Take the walking trails to sights such as the 230m tall Katoomba Falls and The Three Sisters rock formation before visiting quaint villages such as Leura.

5. Rottnest Island

Enjoy a quick ferry ride from Perth to Rottnest Island, a slice of paradise with pristine beaches, abundant marine life and a famous little breed of wallaby known as the Quokka.

There are no cars allowed on Rottnest Island, so hire a bike and enjoy the freedom of peddling around the island. As you go, stop on one of the 63 white sand beaches and snorkel amongst the bright coral reefs – home to over 400 species of fish and fur seals.

Uncover the history of the island at Wadjemup Museum, where you can learn about the local Aboriginal heritage and how over 4,000 Aboriginal men and boys were imprisoned on the island from 1838 to 1931.

Finally, finish your visit by taking a selfie with a Quokka. You won’t find a cuter or friendlier creature when solo travelling around Australia!

6. Melbourne

Meander around Melbourne, a cultural hub for coffee, art, fashion, food and sport. Many people start their solo travel in Australia here and make their way north along the Eastern Coast.

Find your way through the maze of laneways, each lined with its own array of al fresco restaurants, trendy cafes and vibrant street art. Get buzzed on the world’s best coffee, drink with other solo travellers in pubs around Fitzroy or Carlton and dance the night away at one of the famous nightclubs such as Revolver.

Need some rest? Relax amongst the peaceful grounds of the Royal Botanic Gardens, which hosts over 8,500 plant species. Then watch the sunset on St Kilda Beach or grab a photo of the colourful beach huts on Brighton Beach.

7. The Great Ocean Road

Cruise along the Great Ocean Road, one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world and a must-visit on any Australia solo travel itinerary. At 244km, it can be driven in as little as one day.

Start in the beach town of Torquay (an hour west of Melbourne), the surfing capital of Australia and host to the Australian National Surfing Museum. Then explore the fern gullies and waterfalls around Lorne, such as the 30m cascade that is Erskine Falls. And wander amongst the koalas in the treetops of Great Otway National Park.

Trace the craggy cliff tops as you wind your way around the edge of the mighty Southern Ocean. Stop at the many panoramic lookouts along the way and take in iconic sights such as Loch Ard Gorge, the London Bridge, the Grotto and the Twelve Apostles – a series of 45m (150ft) tall limestone pillars that rise out of waves below.

8. Kakadu National Park

Take a solo outback adventure into the Top End and discover the ancient wonders of World Heritage-listed Kakadu – Australia’s largest national park.

Walk amongst towering ochre bluffs, drive through tropical rainforests, cool off in swimming holes and admire the thundering waterfalls around Nitmiluk National Park. 

Admire ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries (up to 20,000 years old), cruise the Yellow Water Billabong and soak in the thermal hot springs around Katherine. 

But take note, the best time to visit Kakadu National Park is in the Dry Season (May – October) when it doesn’t rain as much and the roads are more accessible. However, the waterfalls can be amazing during the Wet Season (November – April).

The middle of Australia is known as The Red Centre, where you will find the heart of the country and its culture – Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. If you have enough time, this is a must-visit on your Australia solo travel itinerary.

At 348 metres tall and 550 million years old, it’s no wonder why the monolithic Uluru is revered as a place of cultural and spiritual significance. Wake up early for some special sunrise photos before joining an Aboriginal guided tour and hearing their Dreamtime stories.

Don’t want to walk the full 9.4km around the base of the rock? Take a break and ride a camel around the red sands instead. And don’t miss nearby Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), massive rock domes that glow bright red at sunrise and sunset.

10. Ningaloo Reef

The Western Australia coastline is 12,895km long and adorned with remarkable attractions. One of the gems that you must add to your Australia solo travel itinerary is Ningaloo Reef. 

You will find the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef where the red soil of the outback runs into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Swim, snorkel and kayak through the calm waters and admire the manta rays, turtles and humpback whales that call this place home.

Ningaloo is also one of the best places in the world to see Whale Sharks each year (between March and July). Join a guided tour and watch as these gentle giants glide past you in the big blue.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Accommodation

Solo travellers have four main accommodation options in Australia: camping, hostels, motels/hotels and Airbnb. 

Most people generally stay in hostels and motels when they solo travel in Australia.

Solo travellers can find designated camping spots all around Australia. The best and most scenic campsites tend to be in National Parks and holiday parks.

National Park campsites can cost anywhere from $0 – $20 per person per night. Holiday park campsites can cost anywhere from $20 – $75 per person per night. 

The cheaper the campsite, the more basic the facilities provided. A standard campsite should provide toilets, showers, water and picnic tables.

Camping is a fun option for adventurous solo travellers who want to be amongst nature and save money on accommodation. However, you will need to carry a tent or travel in a campervan. 

Some of Australia’s best camping spots include: 

• Booderee National Park – Jervis Bay, NSW
• Great Sandy National Park – Fraser Island, QLD
• Ayers Rock Resort – Petermann, NT
• Riba’s Underground Camping – Coober Pedy, SA
• Bay of Fires – East Coast, Tasmania

The majority of solo travellers and backpackers in Australia stay at hostels. You can find hostels in most tourist destinations around the country.

The cost of a bed in a hostel dorm room ranges from about $25 – $70 per night. The cost of a private room in a hostel ranges from about $70 – $175 per night.

The cost of hostel accommodation increases in popular destinations (particularly cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and the Gold Coast). Generally, dorm rooms with fewer beds also cost more.

Hostel accommodation is best for most solo travellers because it is affordable and a good way to make new friends. Women can also stay in female-only dorm rooms. However, hostels are not always as comfortable as motels or hotels.

Some of the most popular hostels for solo travel in Australia include:

• Gilligan’s Hostel – Cairns, QLD
• Bounce – Sydney, NSW
• The Mansion – Melbourne, VIC
• Nomads Hostel – Byron Bay, NSW
• Kimberley Travellers Lodge YHA – Broome, WA

Motels and hotels

Many solo travellers in Australia stay in motels or hotels. You can find motels and hotels in almost every city and town around the country.

The cost of an average motel or hotel room (3-4 stars) ranges from about $50 to $150 per night. However, luxurious hotel rooms can cost more than $250+ per night.

Motel and hotel accommodation is best for solo travellers who are willing to pay more for privacy and comfort. You may also have to use this option when visiting regional towns that don’t have hostels. However, it is harder to befriend fellow travellers in a motel or hotel compared to a hostel.

Popular motel and hotel chains in Australia include:

• Holiday Inn

Some solo travellers in Australia may choose to use Airbnb. You can find Airbnb accommodation in every city and most towns around the country.

The average cost of an apartment or home on Airbnb ranges from $150 – $250 per night. However, some rentals can cost up to $500+ per night.

Airbnb is best for solo travellers who want to enjoy luxury, privacy and comfort. It can also be a good option if you plan to stay at your destination long-term. You may even choose to split the cost between a group of friends or fellow travellers.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Transport

Australia is a large place and it can take days or even weeks to travel the long distances between major cities. Even the cities tend to be large in scale and you will often have to rely on public transport to get around.

It is best to break long journeys up into smaller parts by stopping in regional tourist destinations along the way. 

Public Transport

You will find reliable and affordable public transport in all Australian cities and major towns. This includes trains, buses, trams and ferries. 

The cost of using public transport in Australia ranges from about $4 – $8 per return trip. 

When you solo travel in Australia, you can use public transport as an affordable way to get around the city and see local attractions. It tends to be comfortable and safe, with security cameras and guards.

Most of the major cities have their own card system for public transport. You can buy these cards at news agencies and top them up with credit via an app or online. You can then use the card to tap on/off when using buses, trains and ferries:

• Sydney – Opal card (alternatively, just use contactless payment).
• Melbourne – Myki card .
• Brisbane – Go Card (alternatively, just use contactless payment).
• Perth – SmartRider Card .

Uber and Taxi

Ubers and taxis are available in all major cities and many regional cities around Australia, including the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Cairns, Byron Bay and Alice Springs. 

Ubers are more affordable than taxis in Australia and charge about $1.50 per km. Taxis charge about $2.50 per km.

When you solo travel in Australia, you may want to use Uber or taxis as a convenient but more costly alternative to public transport when commuting around the city. 

Uber and taxis tend to be comfortable and safe. Check that your Uber driver has a good rating and familiarise yourself with the safety features on the app. 

There are a few long-distance coach services that solo travellers can use to travel between destinations in Australia.

The largest and most popular coach service for solo travel in Australia is Greyhound Buses. They can transport you all over the East Coast (including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra) and the Outback (including Darwin, Alice Springs, Adelaide and Broome). Along the way, you can hop on and hop off to visit the smaller regional cities and towns.

You can buy a travel pass, which lasts for a limited amount of time and allows you to travel in any direction and get off at any stop. The East Coast Pass costs $249 and lasts for 30 days. The National Pass costs $349 and lasts for 120 days.

Coaches are one of the most popular and affordable ways to solo travel around Australia. However, it is slower and less comfortable than taking the train or a domestic flight.

There are limited long-distance train services that solo travellers can use to travel between destinations in Australia. 

The most popular train services run along the East Coast (between Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns). These are relatively affordable for a solo traveller, with economy tickets costing:

• Melbourne – Sydney: $110 – $130
• Sydney – Brisbane: $110 – $130
• Brisbane – Cairns: $275 – $370

These trains also offer sleeper coaches for about an extra $100-$150 per person.

There are also a few famous train services that run through the Outback, such as The Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth) and The Ghan (Adelaide to Alice Springs to Darwin). However, these are expensive and luxurious journeys that most people consider once-in-a-lifetime experiences. A full journey can cost anywhere from $2150 – $4,200 per person.

Trains are a comfortable and easy way to solo travel around the East Coast of Australia. However, they are slightly more expensive than catching a coach.

The most popular way to solo travel in Australia is via domestic flight.

The average cost of a domestic flight for a solo traveller in Australia depends on the destination, distance and season: 

• Shorter flights along the East Coast (Melbourne, Sydney, Byron Bay, Brisbane, Cairns) may only cost around $100 – $250 per person one way (economy class).
• Longer flights and regional destinations (Perth, Broome, Alice Springs) may cost more, at around $300-$500 per person one way (economy class).

You also have to consider the cost of baggage. Most domestic airlines in Australia do not include baggage in the ticket price and you will have to pay an extra fee of about $25 – $50 per flight. 

The most popular domestic airlines in Australia include:

• Jetstar (most affordable)
• Virgin Australia (second most affordable)
• Qantas (most reliable)
• Rex (best for regional flights)

Domestic flights are the fastest and most comfortable way to solo travel in Australia. However, flying is more expensive than some other options and you won’t get to see as much of the countryside.

Car and campervan rental

Car rental is another popular way to solo travel in Australia.

The cost of hiring a car in Australia depends on the type of car you hire, your age and any extras:

• Aged 18-21: Most car rental agencies won’t let people younger than 21 hire a car.
• It costs an average of $75 per day to hire a small car such as a Hyundai i30 or a Toyota Yaris. 
• It costs an average of $100 per day to hire a medium or large car such as a Toyota Camry or Kia Cerato. 
• It costs an average of $50 per day to hire a small car such as a Hyundai i30 or a Toyota Yaris. 
• It costs an average of $75 per day to hire a medium or large car such as a Toyota Camry or Kia Cerato. 

The most popular car rental companies include Hertz, Enterprise, Europcar, Budget and Avis.

Car and campervan rental is the most flexible way to solo travel in Australia. You can adjust your Australia solo travel itinerary to your liking and see more of the country. However, it is more costly than other transport options.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Best Time to Visit Australia

The best time to solo travel in Australia is between Autumn and Spring because temperatures are reasonable, tourist crowds are minimal and the Tropical North (i.e. Kakadu and the Great Barrier Reef) is more accessible. 

The worst time to solo travel in Australia is summer because temperatures can be scorching, tourist crowds are peaking and parts of the country are inaccessible due to the wet season.

Summer in Australia lasts from December – February. 

During summer, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 18℃ (64℉) to more than 45℃ (113℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during summer, try to stick to the southern parts of the country where the climate is cooler. Avoid the Outback and the wet season in the Northern Tropics.

Good solo travel destinations in summer include the Great Ocean Road, Bondi Beach, Byron Bay, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.

Many tourists travel to Australia during summer, so expect large crowds.

Autumn in Australia lasts from March – May. 

During Autumn, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 12℃ (53℉) to 35℃ (95℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during autumn, try to see the changing foliage and cultural events (food, wine, comedy and sports) in the southern parts of the country. 

Good solo travel destinations in autumn include Tasmania, Melbourne, the Grampians, Sydney and the Blue Mountains.

Fewer international tourists travel to Australia during autumn, so crowds are smaller. However, be aware that many Australians travel during the Easter holidays.

Winter in Australia lasts from June – August. 

During winter, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 0℃ (32℉) to 25℃ (77℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during winter, try to make the most of the dry season and visit the Outback and the Northern Tropics. You could also experience the alpine regions in the southeast. 

Good solo travel destinations in winter include Kakadu, the Great Barrier Reef, the Snowy Mountains and the Humpback Highway on the east coast.

Fewer international tourists travel to Australia during winter, so crowds are smaller. However, be aware that many Australians travel to the snow fields during the holidays.

Spring in Australia lasts from September – November.

During spring, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 6℃ (43℉) to 33℃ (91℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during winter, try to make the most of the end of the dry season in the Northern Tropics. It is also a great time to see wildflowers in the Outback and visit wineries.

Good solo travel destinations in spring include Uluru, Wave Rock, Adelaide, the Coral Coast, the Mornington Peninsula and the Hunter Valley.

Fewer international tourists travel to Australia during spring, so crowds are smaller. However, be aware that many Australians travel during the holidays.

Wet Season and Dry Season

In the north of Australia, there are two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season.

The wet season lasts from November – April. It is characterised by very hot days, high humidity and monsoonal storms. Much of Kakadu is inaccessible at this time of year due to flooding. It is also best to avoid the Great Barrier Reef as it is stinger season.

The dry season lasts from May – October. It is characterised by clear skies, warm days and cool nights. Visit Kakadu at the start of the dry season to see it whilst it is still lush. It is also a good time to visit the Great Barrier Reef because it is still warm but there are no stingers.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Where to Start

The best place to start your solo travel in Australia is in Melbourne. You can fly directly to Melbourne from many of the major international airports around the world. Once you arrive, you can adjust to the welcoming metropolitan environment. Then, you can travel north along Australia’s Eastern Coast.

Alternatively, you could fly into Brisbane and catch a connecting flight to Cairns. From Cairns, you could then travel south along the Eastern Coast.

If you wanted to solo travel New Zealand after touring Australia, it is also preferable to finish your trip on the East Coast. From Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, it is only about a 4-hour flight to Auckland.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: How Long to Spend Travelling Australia

The amount of time that you need to solo travel around Australia depends on which route you take. 

The East Coast of Australia can take anywhere from 1-3 months to travel. Whilst it can be done in as little as 1 month, you will only get to see the highlights and have to travel via flight. It is best to spend about 2-3 months and stop at smaller destinations along the way.

If you want to travel the East Coast of Australia and also see The Outback (e.g. Darwin, Kakadu and Uluru), you would need about 3-4 months.

If you wanted to see all of Australia, including the East Coast, The Outback and Western Australia, you would need about 4-6 months.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Costs and Budgeting

On a backpacker budget, solo travellers can visit Australia for an average cost of $115 per day. On this budget, you would be staying in hostel dorm rooms, preparing most of your own meals, enjoying up to three alcoholic drinks per night, visiting mostly free or cheap attractions and travelling via public transport and coaches.

On a standard budget, solo travellers can visit Australia for an average cost of $275 per day. On this budget, you would be staying in private hostel or motel rooms, eating out once or twice a day, enjoying up to five alcoholic drinks per night, visiting one paid attraction per day and travelling via public transport and domestic flights.

On a luxury budget, solo travellers can visit Australia for an average cost of $550 per day. On this budget, you would be staying in hotels or Airbnb rentals, eating all of your meals out, enjoying a bottle of wine or two per night, visiting two or more paid attractions per day and travelling via Uber, car rental, train or flight.

The average daily costs in the table below are in AUD.

In Australia, the currency used is the Australian dollar ($ AUD). 

Solo travellers can use the following rates (based on a 5-year average) when performing rough conversions:

• $1 AUD = $0.70 USD
• $1 AUD = £0.50 GBP
• $1 AUD = €0.60 EUR
• $1 AUD = $0.90 CAD
• $1 AUD = ¥0.90 JPY

For the most recent conversion rate, use an online currency converter .

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Packing List

There are ten essential items that you must add to your solo travel packing list for Australia:

• Flip-flops: The staple footwear of most Australians. Flip flops will prevent you from burning your feet on the scorching hot pavements and beaches in summer.
• Swimsuit: You’ll spend the majority of your solo travel in Australia swimming on coastal beaches or in Outback swimming holes. Bring a good pair of swimmers.
• Beach towel: In summer, the sand on the beach in Australia can reach temperatures of over 50℃ (122℉) and cause burns. Protect your skin with a beach towel.
• Mosquito repellent: Mosquitos are a problem all over Australia, particularly in the tropical north where they can transmit diseases. Prevent bites with repellent.
• Hydrocortisone anti-scratch cream: You will inevitably be bitten by mosquitos in Australia. Calm the itching with hydrocortisone cream.
• Australian adapter: You have to use a plug-type I adaptor to power your appliances when you solo travel in Australia and New Zealand . 
• Plastic bags: After a trip to the beach, carry your wet clothes around in a plastic bag until you can dry them off that night.
• Sunscreen: In Australia, you can suffer from sunburn in as little as ten minutes. Always slip, slop and slap before enjoying the sun.
• Hat: Sunscreen alone is not always enough to protect your skin from the harsh sun in Australia. Protect your face and neck with a hat.
• Pullover: It’s not always scorching hot in Australia. Temperatures often dip below 0℃ (32℉) in the southern states during winter. Wrap up, particularly at night.

Don’t leave anything behind. Before travelling Australia alone, use my solo travel packing list for males or solo travel packing list for females .

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Safety

Is Australia safe to travel alone?

Solo travel in Australia is very safe for both females and males. Scams, theft and assault are rare. 

Call 000 if you ever need emergency assistance. Cities and towns are patrolled by police and ambulance services are fast to respond.

However, solo travellers should still remain cautious of the following dangers.

Snakes are active in Australia from Spring to Autumn. It is highly unlikely that you will come across a snake during your solo travels. Try to avoid them by making noise, wearing covered footwear and sticking to well-used trails when bushwalking. If you do come across a snake, back away without taking your eyes off it.

Spiders are a concern in Australia throughout the year. You will likely come across spiders during your solo travels. Avoid spiders by shaking out your shoes and clothing before putting them on. Never reach into piles of foliage or places where spiders may live.

In the north of Australia, you need to be aware of crocodiles and jellyfish. Never swim at the beach or in fresh water sources unless there is signage indicating that it is safe to do so. Avoid approaching the edge of the water and keep your distance from crocodile slide marks. Crocodiles are stealth predators and very fast runners over short distances.

Sharks are rarely a danger to swimmers in Australia. However, you can reduce your risk of encountering a shark by swimming close to the shore and between the flags at patrolled beaches. Avoid swimming at dusk or dawn. If you do see a shark, leave the water as quickly and calmly as possible.

Mosquitos are a health risk and can spread disease in Australia (particularly in northern Queensland). Protect yourself when solo travelling by covering up with long-sleeve tops and pants when outside. Apply repellent to exposed skin. Mosquitoes are worst at dusk and dawn. 

Heat and sun

During summer, temperatures in Australia can reach more than 45℃ (113℉). You must stay well hydrated to avoid heat stroke. Try to drink about 2.5L (0.5 gals) of water per day whilst you solo travel.

Australia also has some of the highest levels of UV radiation in the world. Your skin can burn in as little as ten minutes if you don’t properly protect yourself from the sun. Always wear sunscreen when spending more than half an hour outside. On particularly hot days, try to cover up with a hat and long sleeves. 

One of the biggest dangers to tourists in Australia is drowning whilst swimming. Whilst Australia’s beaches are beautiful, the surf is powerful and strong currents can be deadly. Only go swimming in Australia if you are a confident swimmer. And only swim on beaches that are patrolled by lifeguards, staying between the red and yellow flags. 

As mentioned above, you also need to be cautious of crocodiles, jellyfish and sharks when swimming in Australia. Always read the safety signage.

The biggest danger to tourists in Australia is driving and road safety. Drivers often get tired because of the long distances between destinations.

If you plan on driving whilst you solo travel in Australia, break long journeys into small chunks. Stop for a day or two in the regional towns between the major destinations.

Also, ensure that you have filled your car with enough fuel for the journey. Fuel stations can be few and far between in Australia, particularly in the outback.

Solo female safety

Solo female travellers in Australia should generally feel safe throughout their trip. However, as per usual, you should follow these solo travel safety tips .

Less than 1.5% of female travellers in Australia report witnessing or experiencing harassment, abuse or assault during their stay (according to the data above). However, young females as a demographic tend to suffer the most harassment.

See this article on solo travel safety in Australia for more information.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Visas and Entry Requirements

International tourists will need a valid visa to enter Australia. You must apply for a visa before leaving your home country. You’ll also need to meet the designated financial and medical requirements and maintain health insurance for the duration of your trip.

There are several different types of Australian tourist visas. The visa that you apply for will depend on the length of your solo travel in Australia, your passport, your age and whether or not you want to work whilst you travel:

• Visitor visa (600): Visit Australia for tourism for up to three months (or up to 12 months in certain circumstances). Open to all nationalities.
• Electronic Travel Authority visa (601): Visit Australia as often as you want in a 12-month period. You can stay up to 3 months each time you enter Australia. Only available to certain nationalities.
• Working Holiday Visa (417): People aged 18 to 30 years old (or 35 years old for some countries) can visit Australia for up to 12 months and do short-term work to fund their trip. Can only be used once but you can apply for a second Working Holiday visa if you do three months of specified work. Only available to certain nationalities.

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New Zealand Solo Trip Cost (2023)

More solo travel guides and tips on nomadic yak.

You now know almost everything you need to know about travelling solo to Australia!

Nomadic Yak helps solo travellers to plan journeys that are adventurous and authentic.

Every article is written by me, Harry Dale. I’ve travelled to 40+ countries over the last 5 years – alone.

For even more information about solo travel in Australia, see our solo travel tips .

We also have destination guides to help you plan solo travel in nearby countries such as New Zealand.

Creator of Nomadic Yak

At age 22, I had never travelled overseas. Six years later, I have travelled alone through 35 countries and work wherever I like as a freelance writer.

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Australia

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatGs) – Beach GatG, Nature GatG, Ocean GatG, Party GatG, Train Journey GatG, Wildlife GatG

Australia is an amazing destination to visit especially as a solo traveller. Going to Australia for some is a once in a lifetime experience because of the distance to travel there. I spent a year working and travelling extensively around Australia and have written a guide on how to travel solo in Australia.

Discover the best places to stay, which tour company to use and how to get around. Find out how to get from the airports and what to do in each place. All companies included have been recommended by solo female travellers and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement. Just choose the relevant section or read the full article.

N.b. For every booking made through this article, I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping to make a difference to their lives. 

• Working & Volunteering in Australia
• Places to Visit in Australia

Tours in Australia

Accommodation in australia.

• Best Experiences in Australia For Solos

Travelling Around Australia

• Australia Itinerary

Best Backpacks For Australia

Travel accessories for australia.

• Best Time to Go To Australia

Travel Insurance For Australia

• From Australia Airports

How To Be a Conscious Traveller in Australia

Frequently asked questions about australia, map of australia, plan a trip to australia, related posts.

Australia is known for its kangaroos

Solo travel in Australia is so easy that I've given it a 5 out of 5-star rating. Australia in Oceania is known for its travelling culture so wherever you choose to start travelling you’re guaranteed to meet others en route.

Backpacking Australia solo is really popular, especially along the East Coast which is famous for its party atmosphere. Because of its ease, many gap-year and younger travellers choose to visit here to experience life down under before entering the job market.

If you are wondering “is Australia safe to travel to alone?” Then the answer is yes. Travelling solo in Australia as a woman is fine as most people are friendly but be prepared for some strange souls in the outback, especially in Katherine and Tenant Creek.

Australia has an outdoor lifestyle, barbecues on the beach, sporty lifestyle. There are so many rural areas and beaches and it gives you a chance to cut off from your previous world and have time for yourself, to think about a career change, think about changing your life, a different path or to start something new.

Australia has the power to bring so much harmony and power back into your life because it’s so natural with so much space. You can choose to share with people who you just meet or keep it to yourself. You have the freedom and the space for personal growth, to think about what you really want from life and learn all about yourself on the road.

Oz is great for first-time solos as there are endless supplies of hostels and hotels and everyone speaks English. It really is a traveller’s dream but if you prefer your Australia sightseeing with others, there are plenty of solo travel companies in Australia to go with.

* Before you travel, check what paperwork or visas are required for Australia.

Volunteering & Working in Australia

If you are thinking of volunteering in Australia, Global Work & Travel helps you to organise a working holiday in Australia and around the world. Choose from au pairing in Australia, an IT or marketing internship in Australia, volunteering with marine conservation and so many more.

They even offer an eco-tourism internship! Whether you want to au pair Sydney, au pair Melbourne or experience one of their business internships, their placements are ideal for solos and include all the support you need for a life-changing adventure. * Save £100/$100/€100 with the code ‘GatG.’ * Check availability for volunteering & working in Australia placements

The sun sets over Cairns

Places To Visit in Australia

East coast australia.

You can’t get much further from home than Australia and a trip down under is ideal for solo travel. It has sun, sand and plenty of surfer dudes to keep you entertained but with so many territories to see, where do you start? Follow our list of places to visit in Australia to help you to plan your trip.

If you like to party and meet other travellers then the East coast is one of the popular places in Australia to begin. As one of the best places to travel alone in Australia, you can fly into Cairns  and travel down the Queensland coast.

Cairns is also the gateway to Northern Australia where the rainforest meets the sea and from here you can explore Cape Tribulation which is one of the locations in Australia that is home to thousands of mammals, reptiles and plants. Spend an evening in an eco-lodge to get back in touch with nature.

Cape Tribulation (photo @ Petrina Wong)

Things To Do in Queensland

Take the scenic railway through the  Daintree National Park, see the waterfalls at Atherton Tablelands or take a stroll at the Mossman Gorge then relax at Cow Bay or the Four Mile Beach at Port Douglas. * Read: Exploring The Daintree Forest in Australia

The Great Barrier Reef runs along the Queensland coast and is one of the most famous places in Australia. The reef is a metropolis of coral and underwater life but due to many factors such as overfishing, coral mining, and tourism in Australia, the reef has suffered damage.

There are introductory dives available for those who want to experience the reef for the first time from Fitzroy or Green Island (but be careful not to touch the reef). Or you may prefer to take a scenic flight above it instead. 

Once you’ve experienced this Wonder of the World, head South for the real Australia where you can sample some Bundaberg rum in the fruit-picking region of Bundaberg .

Fraser Island

Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island, Australia, is a boat away from Townsville and they say that once you come here, you won’t want to leave. It’s a great place to hire a moke (a golf cart) and drive around the island. See the secluded beach of Radical Bay and the dairy-free ice-cream parlour, or explore the island on horseback.

The stunning Whitsundays

Fraser Island & The Whitsundays

Fraser Island  is a definite must-see. It's a huge sand island with stunning lakes where you can drive a 4WD along the beach. This is more of a camping experience but beware of the dingos and the tiger sharks. You do need to do a tour to see the best of the island. Find the best Fraser Island tours here.

Another of Australia's best places to visit is Whitehaven Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and you can see manta rays swimming along the shoreline. This beach in the Whitsundays is also an ideal spot to clean any dull-looking jewellery in crystal clear waters.

Experience the great nightlife at Airlie Beach  then take a sailing trip around the islands of the Whitsundays. It really is one of the most stunning places you will ever see. 

Surfers Paradise

Brisbane & The Gold Coast

Compared to the rest of the country, there aren't that many things to do in Brisbane but one of the must-do's is to visit the late Steve Irwin’s Brisbane Zoo and Riverside Park. Brisbane is also home to Moreton Island, one of the largest sand islands in the world. This island with pristine beaches and a shipwreck is the place for the adventurous solo as you can snorkel in its waters, go kayaking on a transparent kayak and sand board down huge dunes. You can take a tour from Brisbane to visit it .

If you need more nightlife and some surfing then Surfers Paradise is one of the best places to travel solo in Australia for surfing Girls about the Globe. This coastal city is the place to be with its ‘Miami feel’ and is the place to visit on the Gold Coast for plenty of fun and sun.

One of the things to do in Australia's Gold Coast is taking  a ride in the many theme parks. Choose from Dreamworld, Movie World, or Wet ‘n’ Wild. Stay in a hostel to find others willing to come along for the ride.

Cape Byron Lighthouse in Byron Bay

Visit Noosa, Byron Bay, and Nimbin

Just north of Brisbane is a region called  Noosa with secluded beaches and cute arty shops with plenty of restaurants around Hastings Street. The main beach is great for swimming and there are no stingers here.

If you prefer the hippy scene, visit Byron Bay   for its incredibly laid-back vibe or take a trip to Nimbin the ‘alternative capital of Australia’ for its arty, colourful community and lost souls. This area is great if you are backpacking Australia alone as you will meet other travellers here too. Plus, you can see Bryon's Bay iconic lighthouse and spot dolphins and turtles if you take a sea kayaking adventure . 

Victoria is the next territory and is known for its variety of sporting events. Melbourne hosts the Australian Open, the Grand Prix, Melbourne Cup and Aussie Rules football at the MGM. It is also the fashion capital of Australia and is great for shopping and back-street cafe culture but you’ll need a local to find its exclusive, hidden nightlife.

Take some time to walk along the riverbank and enter Queen Victoria Market, the city's iconic market and the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Melbourne Museum, and the National Gallery of Victoria, before shopping at Chapel Street then while away your evenings at one of the bars or restaurants in Brunswick or Fitzroy.

You may feel more at home in Melbourne with its four seasons in one day but if you’re looking for more of a holiday feel, take the tram to St Kilda where you can sit al fresco and watch people rollerblading along the promenade.

You don't have to go far outside the city to experience some nature.  Just 35 km outside of Melbourne are the Dandenong Ranges, mountain ranges with tall forests and waterfalls and a 1000 Steps Walk for the active GatG. Other places to see in Victoria include the town of Olinda, a popular town with forest walks and cafes and restaurants but it can get busy on the weekends.

If you love wildlife, this region is the place to see the world's smallest penguins and koalas too. You can take a day trip to see the Philip Island Koala Reserve and penguin parade which also stops at Nobbies National Park to see volcanic formations and Seal Rocks. * Check rates & availability for the tour

* Read: Things To Do in Melbourne Solo

The Great Ocean Road (photo @ Petrina Wong)

The Great Ocean Road

One of the things to do in Melbourne, Australia, is taking a road trip along the Great Ocean Road, one of Australia’s epic drives. Bells Beach is en route and has great point breaks and was the setting of the film with the same name.

Stop off at Port Campbell National Park to see the Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge. The Twelve Apostles are one of the well-known sites on the route and the best way to see this iconic drive if you don't hire a car is on a Great Ocean Road day tour.

Off the coast of Melbourne is Tasmania, one of the lesser-known tourist attractions in Australia. In reality, there is so much to see in Tasmania that we've given it its own page. Read Solo Travel in Tasmania here . 

New South Wales

If you're wondering where the best place to spend a week in Australia is then the answer is of course, Sydney. Sydney   lies in New South Wales and although it is not the country’s capital it has everything you would expect to find in one.

Australia’s actual capital, Canberra , is 250km inland. If you do make it to Canberra, the Parliament Building is the main focal point of the city which overlooks the lake but don't make the long trip here expecting too much as the capital is very understated.

Sydney Opera House

Places To Visit in Sydney

There is much to see and do in Sydney, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House are must sees for day tours in Sydney. Take a boat ride around the harbour or travel across to Taronga Zoo for spectacular pictures of giraffes against a Sydney backdrop.

There are so many other things to do in Sydney, Australia, such as a Rocks walking tour, kayak to Goat Island, visit the Chinese Garden or take a tour to the Blue Mountains, named after the blue haze from the eucalyptus trees.

TIP – If you are planning to solo female travel in Sydney for a few nights, consider purchasing the Sydney Attraction Pass to save money. Choose from 4 of Sydney’s best sites and save up to 45% compared to buying the tickets separately. * Buy the Sydney Attraction Pass here  

Famous Bondi Beach

Sydney's Beaches

Darling Harbour at dusk is the perfect place to people-watch and has some great bars. If you prefer somewhere more upmarket, Woolloomooloo has swanky restaurants and plenty of yachts to admire.

If you like markets, you’ll love Paddington market which is reminiscent of Covent Garden with arty stalls. One of the favourite things to do in Australia is surf and Bondi is the most popular of the beaches but the waves of Coogee , Manly and Bronte are just as good. Dee Why Beach is lesser known and is a great escape from the crowds.

Only a 2.5 hour drive from Sydney is Port Stephans, a place that feels a world away from the city. With giant sand dunes and the opportunity to spot dolphins and whales, it feels like a hidden gem in the country. 

Blue Mountains (photo @ Lindsay Deutsch)

South Australia

Adelaide is the capital of South Australia and there is a lot to do both in and around this city which has a country-town feel. Things to do in Adelaide include getting out into the Adelaide Hills to see waterfalls, fairytale villages and the world’s largest rocking horse.

Sample wines at the Barossa Valley and see how chocolate is made in the chocolate factory, and camp overnight at Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre within the Flinders Rangers. It’s a unique experience and you need an entry permit to enter the park.

Other places to visit in South Australia include the beach-side suburb of Glenelg where you will find great restaurants after a day of sunbathing on the beach. If you don’t enjoy having tan lines as you sunbathe, Maslin Beach is a popular nudist beach.

The Adelaide Hills

Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is a natural Australia attraction and is only 90 minutes from the mainland, reachable via Adelaide. Over a third of Kangaroo Island are nature reserve but the island was badly affected by the wildfires in 2020.

The East side of the island is still open for Australia tourism and you can get up close and personal with seals on Seal Bay or join a wildlife safari to learn about Australian wildlife.

See Admirals Arch, the Remarkable Rocks, and the lighthouse at Flinders Chase National Park on the west side of Kangaroo Island. There are tours that take you from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island. Discover the best Kangaroo Island tours here.

Perth City (photo @ Shannon Lane)

Things To Do in Perth

From Adelaide, you can travel by train on the Ghan across the outback to the Red Centre, home to many Aborigines, or to the modern city of Perth via the Indian Pacific railway. Perth doesn't have that many of Australia's tourist attractions but is popular with ex-pats and there are some great beaches such as Cottesloe and Scarborough.

Kings Park in Perth is a tranquil place to relax and see black swans, or you can take one of the popular day trips and drive three hours south of the city to Margaret River where you can visit vineyards and wineries, cycle along the river or even surf. Perth is worth seeing if you have the time as it’s a long way from the rest of the country.

Fremantle , Perth, is a vibrant little city with buzzing markets but the main attraction has got to be the old prison, which gives you an eye-opening tour of prison life. Don't forget to visit Rottnest Island either where you can cycle around the wildlife nature reserve and spot the quokkas that live there.

The Breakaways near Coober Pedy

Northern Territory

When you stray away from the cities into the more male-dominated outback, you may find you get more attention as a woman travelling solo and being whistled at is not uncommon. If you don’t mind the attention, it’s worth a trip to see the real Australia.

You shouldn’t miss Coober Pedy, the world’s only underground town where you can sleep in an abandoned mine shaft. Near Coober Pedy is the Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park with colourful mounds and stunning landscapes.

The Red Centre is steeped in Aboriginal culture and resembles a scene out of the Flintstones. Learn how to throw a boomerang, ride in a hot air balloon or play the didgeridoo at Alice Springs .

Uluru, an Aboriginal sacred site

Uluru (Ayres Rock) 

Things to do at Ayres Rock include visiting the Flying Doctors Museum or the reptile centre to learn more about Australia’s snakes and lizards. Then it’s onto the wonder that is Ayres Rock or Uluru, as known by the Aborigines at Kata Tjuta National Park.

Australia has thousands of national parks but this sacred rock is one of the largest Australia attractions and can be reached by a six-hour drive or a flight.

There has been much controversy about climbing the rock but a walk around the burial caves and ancient art paintings at the base is a good substitute. Don’t forget to include a trip to Kings Canyon (the setting for the movie, Priscilla Queen of the Desert ), and the Olgas when you go.

Things To Do in Darwin

Head north to  Darwin , the capital of the Northern Territory and the gateway to Lichfield or Kakadu National Park where you can see crocodiles and wetlands, and hire a bike at Katherine Gorge to cycle to the springs.

You don't have to go far to see a crocodile as Darwin is home to Crocosaurus Cove, one of Australia's tourist attractions, where you can experience one of the scariest things in Australia; diving with the crocodiles.

If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground and are wondering what to do in Darwin, there are plenty of art galleries showcasing indigenous art, and museums such as the Darwin Military Museum to keep you entertained. If you are going to the Northern Territory it’s worth investing in a fly net for this tropical climate.

Tennant Creek is an odd little place and half of its population are aborigines. If you can handle the strangeness it’s worth a stop to see the Devil's Marbles, an important site from the Dreamtime or visit Kalgoorlie for a real gold rush town.

Nambung National Park

Western Australia

Cruise past the rugged red cliffs of the Kimberley region then west to   Broome , Australia, known for its pearling industry to drive a 4×4 along the northern stretch of Cable Beach. Many people skip this region but if you have the time it is worth travelling to. Nambung National Park is where you'll find the Pinnacles Desert, an area of pointy formations made out of limestone.

Finally…

Travel Australia alone and you'll have so many adventures. There are so many attractions in Australia and things to do from sleeping under the stars in a swag to experiencing a hot sunny Christmas.

If you decide to spend the Christmas holidays in Australia you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Santa jet skiing along Sydney Harbour. Tour Australia and you'll soon discover that there really is no other place like it.

Thinking of going to Australia? Global Work & Travel helps you to organise working abroad placements in Australia and around the world. Choose from a working holiday , an internship or au pairing . Their placements include all the support you need for a life-changing adventure.

Best Tours to Australia For Solos

G Adventures Tours Australia   – With Australia being such a sociable country, you’ll never be short of company travelling Australia alone. There are numerous solo travel tours for Australia but if you feel more comfortable in a group for either part of your trip or the whole duration, G Adventures   is a responsible tour company which mainly caters towards budget travellers.

Most tours have an average of 12 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book one of their G Adventures Australia tours you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there. G Adventures offer some of the best tours of Australia for all types of duration from 3 days on the Great Ocean Road to 28 days for a complete Australia tour.

Join the G Adventures East Coast Australia from Sydney to Cairns on a 16-day trip from £1849, or travel the Red Centre to Adelaide from £639 for 8 days . The G Adventures Best of Australia takes you from Cairns to Sydney over 14 days from £2050, making the most of your two weeks in the country.  I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female-friendly company.   *  Check rates and availability for G Adventures Australia tours

Intrepid Tours Australia – Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each tour. Over 50% of people who book their trips are solo travellers. They tend to use hotels instead of hostels for their Intrepid Australia tours and have a more comfortable style of accommodation hence the trips can appear a bit more than G Adventures.

Intrepid Travel Australia tours range from 2 days to 22 days and include adventures such as an overnight camping trip in Uluru or an overland tour from Darwin to Perth. With both tour companies you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room. Read our   Intrepid Travel Reviews

*  Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates

Stray Bus Australia – More for the adventurous GatG, Stray Travel is a hop-on hop-off bus tour offering bus passes around Australia with Australia tours from Sydney and other major cities. Jump on a 16 or 21-day Australia tour to see the best of the coast from Sydney to Cairns. This epic trip squeezes in all the highlights including Fraser Island, sailing around the Whitsundays, and seeing the Queensland rainforest. Tours of Australia depart every week and you can start or end your trip in Melbourne. 

As well as seeing the iconic hotspots on their Australian bus tours you can also go off the beaten track and see areas of the country that others don't visit. Prices start from $2,895 AUD. If you visit during the peak season you may need to pre-book all sections of your trip before you go.  Check the review here and save 10% on any $500+ Freestyle Pass. * Check rates and availability for Stray tours

1770 Castaway – If you've ever wanted to experience life as a castaway on a tropical island, these 3/4 day tours are definitely not for the faint-hearted. Remote, raw and with insects, this will be one of those vacations to Australia that you'll never forget. (As one of the fun things to do in Australia, this castaway experience is definitely for the adventurous Girl about the Globe).

Australian Day Tours

Lets Go Surfing – Fancy a surfing lesson on Bondi beach? Check out Let's Go Surfing.

I'm Free Walking Tours – Enjoy 2.5 hours of easy walking around Sydney. The tours are free and you just make a donation at the end.

Get Your Guide – This tour platform offers day tours in Australia. When you solo travel around Australia it can be challenging to find tours that don't have a minimum of 2 people. Get Your Guide offers small groups and although some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people, there are plenty to book as a solo.  

Choose from a tour of the Sydney Opera House, a Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne or a catamaran cruise on the Great Barrier Reef. There are so many to choose from. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check rates and availability for Australia day tours

There are plenty of types of accommodation in Australia and you'll never be short of places to stay whether you prefer hostels in Australia or a swanky city apartment. Finding accommodation in Australia is easy with motels, farm stays and even boat houses to spend a night or two. If you are backpacking alone in Australia, choose one of the many Australian hostels to meet others.  

Booking.com is my favourite hotel site in Australia. It offers BnBs and hotels from 3-star to luxurious 5-star hotels in Australia and even includes dorm rooms if you're travelling on a budget. Guest houses are a sociable way of staying in family homes, or choose a private room in hostels if you want to meet others but still have your own privacy.

Plus there’s Airbnb Australia which offers rental accommodation in Australia on a short-term basis and rooms in Australia with a local. You can stay in a private room in a local's house or rent their whole apartment. 

All of the accommodations below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement. For all other accommodations, click on the link below and search for the solo traveller reviews. * Check rates and availability for all accommodation in Australia

Adelaide –  Adelaide Central YHA ($)

Adelaide Central YHA is an award-winning hostel in Australia. It is right in the heart of the city and has air-conditioned rooms. Each bed has a personal light and a large locker to store your stuff. It’s sociable with a communal lounge and they have pizza and live music nights too.

There is a 6-bed female-only dorm or you can choose a private room from £56 if you need more privacy. You'll find lots of backpackers here as the YHA Australia group is one of the most well-known hostels in Australia. * Check prices and availability: Adelaide Central YHA

Cairns – Cascade Gardens ($$)

If you prefer your own space in Cairns, Cascade Gardens are apartments with their own private balconies and a shared swimming pool. Everything you need is just a short stroll away along the boardwalk. See the lagoon pool, dine at the city’s restaurants or take a ferry to explore the reef.

In an excellent location with friendly, helpful staff, the apartments are bright and comfortable and come equipped with a kitchenette with tea, coffee and condiments. This family-run business is close enough to the city yet you can escape to your own piece of paradise. Choose from a studio or a one-bedroom apartment. * Check rates and availability: Cascade Gardens

Melbourne – Selina Central Melbourne ($)

Located in the Central Business District, Selina Central Melbourne is one of the hostels in Australia Melbourne in the perfect spot to explore the city. I love the Selina brand. You’ll find lockers for your belongings and a manned reception which is open 24 hours. The onsite bar makes it easy to find others to explore with. For those of us going to Australia alone, it's easy to meet other solo travellers. * Check rates and availability: Selina Central Melbourne

Melbourne – Citadines on Bourke Melbourne ($$)

If you prefer comfortable accommodation in Melbourne, Citadines on Bourke Melbourne offers modern apartments within the heart of the city. The apartments are a good size and come equipped with a kitchenette so you can prepare your own meals, as well as a TV in the living space. The staff are really helpful and reception is open 24 hours.

Other facilities include a gym, sauna and saltwater pool as well as a sun terrace. As an award-winning hotel in Australia, Melbourne, you can choose from a deluxe studio apartment, an executive studio, or an executive one-bedroom apartment. * Check rates and availability: Citadines on Bourke

Sydney – Rydges Sydney Harbour ($$)

This four-star hotel is one of the best hotels in Australia for views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. It is a short walk from Circular Quay and is perfectly located for ferries and trains, with the harbour only a 15-minute walk away. All rooms have an ensuite bathroom, flat-screen TV and air conditioning, as well as tea and coffee-making facilities.

You even have a choice of pillows that you don't find in many Sydney hotels. The swimming pool on the rooftop is one of the hotel’s highlights offering amazing views of the harbour.

The hotel breakfast is an additional cost but is well worth purchasing during your stay. Choose from a standard double room, a superior room, an executive double room or a deluxe king room with a harbour view. * Check rates and availability: Rydges Sydney Harbour

Experiences in Australia For Solos

If you are wondering what to do in Australia alone, we've picked our top 10 activities in Australia for solo travellers. * Check rates and availability for all experiences in Australia

1. The Sydney Opera House

If you are travelling to Sydney, Australia alone, you can’t come all the way to Sydney and not see the Opera House! This iconic structure is now 60 years old and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you thought this was one giant opera house you may be surprised to know that there are more than 1,000 rooms within its famous sails. The hour-long tour includes a tour inside the theatres, learning the history of Australia’s biggest icon. * Book Sydney Opera House tour

2. Sail The Whitsunday Islands

If you love beaches, sailing the Whitsundays Islands is one of the must do's in Australia. The Whitsunday Islands are some of the most beautiful islands in Oz and the best way to see them is on a sailing trip. You get to snorkel alongside turtles and stingrays and see Whitehaven Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in the world. The catamaran departs from Airlie Beach, a destination that attracts many travellers backpacking alone in Australia. * Book Whitsundays sailing adventure

3. Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles

When you're travelling solo it can be costly to rent a car for one. Instead of hiring a car along one of the world’s most popular coastal roads, take a full-day tour instead. See the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and hear tales of shipwrecks as you see this spectacular coastline. The trip departs from Melbourne. * Book Great Ocean Road tour

4. Daintree Wilderness & Cape Tribulation

If you are planning to spend some time in Queensland, head out of Cairns to experience Australia’s rainforest and wetlands. Cruise along the Daintree River among mangroves, spotting crocodiles. Cape Tribulation has a gorgeous white sand beach that you can walk along or just view from the boardwalk instead. The trip departs from Cairns. * Book Daintree Wilderness tour

5. Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge

If you want to see the best of Sydney, one of the fun things to do in Australia is to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for the most amazing views. The climb includes an experienced guide who takes you 134 metres above the water to the summit of the bridge.

After a complimentary certificate and photo, you finish your climb with a great sense of achievement. No matter what time of day you go, you’ll be blessed with a great panorama but it's recommended to pre-book your tour as this is one of the Australian activities that you don't want to miss. * Book Sydney Harbour Bridge climb

6. Go Whale Watching in Hervey Bay

If you’ve ever wanted to see whales up close, whale watching is a must do in Australia. This experience is led by marine naturalists who tell you everything about whale behaviour during your trip. You can listen to live whale songs underwater and there is also a whale researcher onboard to help with any questions. The best thing about this experience is that whale sightings are guaranteed or you will receive a free ticket for another day. * Book Hervey Bay whale watching experience

7. Wine Tasting in Barossa Valley

If you love wine, a trip to Barossa Valley should definitely be on your solo Australia wish list. This day trip makes it easy for you to go wine tasting as it’s travelling by coach. You'll experience wine tastings at three wineries and enjoy lunch in this famous region before heading to the Adelaide Hills and learning more about the region’s German heritage. * Book Barossa Valley tour

8. Cycle Rottnest Island

This little island off the coast of Perth is the perfect place for cycling. It takes 3.5 hours to peddle around this wildlife nature reserve spotting wildlife as you go. The island is only 4km wide and has secluded bays and unspoilt beaches. It’s a great day out and just a ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle. This tour includes your ferry ticket and bike hire. Just remember to pack some food and water. * Book Rottnest Island ferry & bike trip from Perth or Fremantle

9. Snorkel The Great Barrier Reef

You can't take an Australia solo trip and not see one of the Seven Wonders of The World. Green Island is one of the islands in The Great Barrier Reef with transparent waters and a colourful reef. Snorkelling is the best way to see the marine life but if you prefer to stay dry then you can discover the reef from a glass bottom boat instead.

The trip also takes you to the island’s rainforest. Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef is one of the best things in Australia to experience. The boat departs from Cairns. * Book Green Island reef catamaran cruise

10. Climb Sand Dunes on Fraser Island

There’s a reason that this island is World Heritage listed. As the largest sand island in the world, it is begging to be explored. Cruise the Great Sandy Strait spotting dolphins, turtles and even a dingo or two. You may even spot humpback whales off the shores. If you are an active GatG you can snorkel, kayak, go tubing or just climb the sand dunes. Tours depart from Hervey Bay . * Book Fraser Island tour from Hervey Bay

Travelling solo around Australia does take a bit of planning. The large distances between places are vast so travelling around Australia takes a while. If you are planning your own tour of Australia there is a great bus network called Greyhound that prov ides passes for bus travel, as well as epic train journeys.

A rail pass is a good way of saving money for train travel. If you are limited on time, the best way to travel Australia alone is to use internal flights between the cities: Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia operate domestically. Find flights here

If you are planning a solo road trip in Australia, renting a car i s only recommended for either short distances, a trip along the East Coast, or those long distances when you have company to travel with. You don't want to be travelling Australia solo with just you in the car and breaking down miles from anywhere in the Outback.

With so many backpackers in the country, there are plenty of other travellers to keep you company on a road trip. I hired a car for Tasmania and Queensland. * Check prices for car hire in Australia  

Coach tours are also a great way for travelling Australia. You get to see areas of the country and share the experience with your fellow passengers. Oz Experience offers guided trips to Australia for those who are sociable and like to party.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary 

If you are hoping to see all of Australia’s sites in a single trip it can be difficult to achieve unless you have plenty of time. Most people when they solo travel in Australia start with Sydney and travel their way up the coast. You'll find more travellers along this route so pairing up with others is more likely than venturing to the Northern Territory alone.

If you are planning first-time travel to Australia, we recommend these routes for your Australia Itinerary. For a cultural experience, you have to visit the Red Centre (Alice Springs and Ayres Rock) to learn more about the Aboriginal culture and help support indigenous groups.

Within a two-week Australia vacation, you also can travel from Adelaide to Darwin or Sydney to Cairns. Below are two itinerary ideas for two weeks in Australia.

a) Sydney – 5 nights, Alice Springs – 4 nights, Cairns –  4 nights (to visit the Great Barrier Reef).

b) Melbourne – 3 nights, Tasmania – 3 nights, Sydney – 5 nights, Uluru – 3 nights.

Australia is such a wonderful country for backpacking. If you're wondering whether to take a suitcase or a backpack, I definitely recommend a backpack if you are planning on visiting a few destinations within the country.

I have the Caribee Jet Pack 65 which opens like a suitcase.   It makes it easier for me to find everything that I have packed rather than having a top loader. I store all my clothes in the big section and my shoes and toiletries in the smaller compartment. My first aid kit gets packed in the pouch. It’s easy to spot on the baggage carousel too.  Find out why I recommend it below.

• Click here for all our recommended backpacks for solos 

Caribee Jet Pack 65

* Click here for Amazon.com / Click here for Amazon.co.uk

If you’re unsure what to pack for your solo trip to Australia, we have created a guide of our favourite solo travel products to help you decide what to pack. Our favourite travel accessory for Australia are a pair of Gandys Flip-Flops.

If you’re spending time at one of Oz’s incredible beaches, you’ll definitely need a pair of these. Find out why we love these below and click on the link to discover all of our favourite travel products:

* Click here for all of our recommended travel accessories for solos

Gandys Flip-Flops

Cool and very funky, these ethical flip-flops are not just footwear. Founded by brothers who were orphaned during the 2004 Tsunami, their mission is to improve the lives of fellow orphans. Every purchase goes towards opening a new children’s home around the world. These are flip-flops with a purpose but Gandys isn’t just limited to footwear; you’ll also find women’s shirts, hoodies and scarfs for your solo Australia trip. 

* Discover all Gandys Flip-Flops here

Best Time To Go To Australia

If you are wondering when is the best time to go to Australia, the best months to visit Australia are between October to December. Australia is in the Northern Hemisphere, meaning the seasons are opposite to Europe so you can escape a European winter.

There are still plenty of things to see in Australia no matter what time of year you visit. Because the country is so vast, each region differs in a climate so there is always somewhere to see depending on your interests.

If it's hot that you're after, one of the best places to visit in Australia is the Northern Territory which is known for being hot and humid year-round.

If you love festivals, Adelaide is one of the best places in Australia to visit in March due to its various festivals such as the Adelaide Fringe, and Art Festival. If you visit during the wet season (December to February), beware of box jellyfish in the sea. Stinger suits are provided if you intend to snorkel.

This chart shows the average maximum day temperatures for Sydney (from January to December) to help you plan your Australia travels. Find out the weather for other areas here.

Travelling alone in Australia is safe but travel insurance is always recommended, especially if you will be doing any active sports or venturing into the Outback. I recommend True Traveller for UK and European residents, and World Nomads for U.S. and worldwide citizens.

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Australia. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover.

* Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

From Australia Airports 

When planning your solo trip to Australia, there is a choice of airports to fly into. Below are the main Australia airports with information on how to get into the nearest city.

Sydney Airport (SYD) – Airport Link departs the International and Domestic Terminals of Sydney International Airport every 10 minutes and takes just 15 minutes to reach the city.

Cairns Airport (CNS) – Airport shuttle buses run from the airport to the city centre, Northern Beaches, Palm Cove, Cape Tribulation and Mission Beach. Some accommodation provides their own courtesy coach so check when booking. The time to the city is only 10 minutes.

Melbourne Airport (MEL) –  SkyBus offer an express service to the city every 10 minutes or there are public buses and taxis for the 30-minute journey.

Brisbane Airport (BNE) – Coachtrans coaches offer direct transfers to Brisbane City departing every 30 minutes. Trains take 22 minutes to Brisbane City or 90 minutes to the Gold Coast (Nerang). For transfers from Brisbane International Airport to the Sunshine Coast, Sun-Air operates an hourly bus service until 8.50 pm.

Perth Airport (PER) – From Perth International Airport, Bus route 380 runs to Elizabeth Quay Bus Station in Perth City. Bus route 40 operates 7 days a week and offers the most direct route from the airport to the city. Check here for buses.

Adelaide Airport – JetBus services travel from the Adelaide International Airport to the city, Glenelg and the North-Eastern suburbs. Skylink Airport Shuttle   offers a regular bus service for the 15-minute journey to the city.

* Feel more confident travelling to Australia alone with someone waiting for you at the airport when you pre-book a transfer with Hoppa , a reliable and safe service for solos.

Travelling onwards (check visas before you travel)

As Australia neighbours countries such as New Zealand, Fiji, Bali or Papua New Guinea, your trip doesn’t have to end in Australia. You could fly to New Zealand , Bali, or the Pacific Islands to extend your travels in Oceania. If you prefer a leisurely pace, cruise from port to port in Australia and then onward to New Zealand or Tasmania . Asia and North America are also accessible by boat or sail back to the UK on a 40-day cruise.

* November to March is the best season for cruises to Australia.

Where can I go from here?

• Papua New Guinea – 4 hours
• New Zealand – 5.5 hours
• Bali – 4 hours

As well as the general ways to be a conscious traveller which you can find here , if you are solo travelling Australia you need to be aware of the following:

Don’t climb Ayres Rock. Climbing Ayres Rock used to be one of the top things to do in Australia. The Aboriginals have since won the right to keep this rock sacred. Instead, there’s a base walk that you can walk around. If there are signs asking you not to photograph Aboriginal sites refrain from taking pictures.

Buy Aboriginal art from cultural centres and ask permission before you take any photos of their crafts or the people.

Australia is known for its unique wildlife but don't try and touch or feed the animals, and don’t use your flash so that you can protect the animal’s eyes.

Don’t have your photo taken with a koala or snake around your neck and avoid any staged animal shows such as crocodile shows.

One of the must sees in Australia is visiting the Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. If you do visit here, be careful not to touch the coral in the reef. Respect the ocean if you choose to dive, snorkel or swim in it.

Social Impact Programs

Lentil As Anything – This not-for-profit vegan restaurant is in four locations in Australia. With the slogan ‘food without borders,’ they aim to care for people and provide a wholesome and nutritious meal.

Guests pay what they can for meals and also use food that otherwise would have gone to a landfill. The restaurant trains volunteers such as those who are long-term unemployed, migrants and refugees and help them to find paid work. 

Daintree Crocodlyus Village – For the Eco Girl about the Globe, Daintree Crocodylus Village is located deep within the Daintree rainforest, less than 2 miles from Cow Bay Beach. This Daintree accommodation feels more like being on safari with tent rooms that come with either a private or shared veranda.

There is a cafe onsite and a games room so you can challenge one of the guests to a game of pool as an ice-breaker. Choose from a jungle double with a shared bathroom, a tropical cabin, a rainforest bungalow or a safari hut. There are also beds in a 4-bed mixed dormitory room for those on a budget.

* To book, check prices or availability for Daintree Crocodlyus Village

Daintree Ecolodge is also in the Daintree Rainforest. Each villa has views of the rainforest and you can feel at one with the atmosphere of the rainforest with your windows open and screens on your windows to stop the bugs coming in.

The views are even better from the restaurant which overlooks the lagoon. All ingredients here are locally sourced so you’re guaranteed a delicious organic meal from seasonal produce.

The staff in this eco-lodge Australia are very welcoming and there is a day spa to help you fully relax. If you are searching for an eco getaway, this eco-lodge certainly offers sustainable luxury. Prices start from £135/$169 USD for a lagoon villa.

* To book, check prices or availability for Daintree Ecolodge  

Volunteering Australia

Conservation Volunteers Australia – If you love nature, you could help conserve the environment during your trip to Australia. Help in the volunteering response to the bushfires in the affected areas, or in the areas of heritage, flora and fauna, or coasts and waterways. There are conservation projects across the country in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, and Western Australia.

* Discover all conservation placements in Australia  

Vulnerable Girls in Australia

The Trauma of Australia’s Indigenous ‘Stolen Generations’ is still affecting children today. A report shows that children living with adults who were forcibly separated from their families are more likely to face a host of challenges. Read more….

Here are the most asked questions about Australia.

• Is Australia safe for solo female travellers? Yes. That's why we've given it 5/5 stars.
• Can you drink tap water in Australia? Yes, you can drink tap water but you may prefer to take a water filter for some areas.
• Tipping in Australia: Tipping isn't expected but if you received good service, a tip of 5% to 10% is appreciated.
• Fixed price or barter?  Fixed Price.
• Are There ATMs in Australia ? Yes, there are many banks and ATMS throughout Australia.
• What side of the road do they drive in Australia? They drive on the left-hand side (the same as the UK).
• Good for vegetarians and vegans? Yes, there are vegan cafes and restaurants in Sydney and Melbourne and other Australian cities. Adelaide even hosts an annual Vegan festival!
• Any seven Wonders of the World? The Great Barrier Reef.
• What is Australia famous for? Surfing, diving, beaches, road trips, and friendly locals.
• Which Australian city should I visit? For first-time travel definitely Sydney then either travel up the East Coast to Brisbane or south to Melbourne.

If you are ready to solo travel in Australia here are some useful links to help you to travel Australia alone including airlines which fly there, vaccinations required and events and festivals.

Budget – £70+ a day

Current Time in Canberra

Capital City – Canberra

Population – 22.4 million

Language spoken – English

Currency in Australia – Australian Dollar

Do I Need a Visa To Go To Australia? The validity of an Australia visa lasts for 3 months within 12 months of when your visa is approved. Apply through your visa through here.

Vaccinations Required For Australia

Useful Info

Airlines to Australia

When is The Best Time to Travel to Australia? The seasons are opposite to the Northern Hemisphere so October to December is a good time to go.

Which Plug Do I Need?

UNESCO Sites in Australia

Australian Festivals and Events

Living Cost in Australia

Australia Customs & Etiquette 

Aboriginal Customs & Culture

Mind Body & Soul

Relax at Yasodhara Ashram

Stay at a Meditation Retreat

Unwind at an Eco Spa

Get rebalanced at a Lifestyle Retreat

• Day Tours in Sydney
• Solo Travel in Tasmania
• Things To Do in Melbourne Solo
• Exploring The Daintree Forest
• Solo Travel in Oceania
• Expert Interview – Australia with Michela
• Solo Travel in New Zealand
• A Round The World Itinerary

57 thoughts on “ Solo Travel in Australia ”

Brisbane and Byron Bay are not part of the Gold Coast. Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, Byron Bay is at the top end of New South Wales.

Thanks Claudia. I have changed this now.

Hi thanks for your article, it is very informative, i will be going to Sydney solo in September. Can you recommenced any good seafood restaurants in Sydney?

Hi, thanks for your comment. I definitely recommend Doyles in Sydney. The fish is fab! There are a couple of girls in our Facebook group who live in Australia and may be able to suggest other places. Here’s the link to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Aloha! Your website is truly a great source of information & inspiration!!! Thanks for doing this for all us Solo traveler’s, really makes it easier to take that leap. Wondering if you have advice re: Lord Howe Island, Heron Island, Hamilton Island, Magnetic Island, Hayman Island, Fitzroy Island. Fraser Island & Hervey Bay are on my to-do list, but I’m not sure about how to fit in all these island in 17 days this August. My goals are snorkeling the GBR, experiencing the pristine beaches, and incredible wildlife, too. Thanks in advance for any advice you have.

Thanks so much Judy 🙂 I have only been to Magnetic Island, Fraser Island and Hervey Bay. I would say that seeing all of these islands in 17 days could be a push as you’ll only get to spend about 3 days on each one. We have a Facebook group which you could join to ask advice and some of the girls live in Australia. Here’s the link to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi! I plan to travel solo to Australia this October. Travelling solo for the first time can be daunting. Any suggestions will only help me further with planning my trip. I am looking at 10-12 days. The broad itinerary is like Mumbai-Sydney-Cairns-Melbourne-Canberra-Sydney-Mumbai. Is it doable? Also if you could guide me about how to go about booking trips to Blue Mountains, Scuba Diving (at Cairns), Great Ocean Drive (coach tour is fine, i am not a very confident driver, that too in a foreign country). I have joined the FB group (hope you accept my request). Looking forward to your guidance… Thanks 🙂

Hi Nilanjana, thanks for your message. I would say that 10-12 days isn’t that long to do all of those places unless you are doing activities every day and taking internal flights. You mentioned that you joined the FB group so post the same message in there to get some more advice x

hi. i’m planning to travel for 8 days in oz. personally, which part do u recommend?

Hi, I would recommend Sydney and then flying into Melbourne. You can then see the beaches in Sydney and if you have time, do part of the Great Ocean Road in Melbourne.

Travelling from Victoria, B.C. in January 2017. Bit nervous. Any other single females going to Australia around that time from Victoria?

Hi Alannah, I would suggest joining our Girls about the Globe Facebook group to meet other solos Here is the link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi Alannah, I would join our FB group and ask the same question in there as you may find someone who lives there in our group 🙂 https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

I’ll be in Sydney 1/29-2/1 and Melbourne from 2/6-2/9. Are you there at these times?

wow! i m so tempted. was thinking of going solo trips to Europe, but was fearful because i hadn’t done solo before. sounds like australia is a better choice..

Hello, I’ve found your site very informative, thankyou. I’m going flying to Cairns in November and I have about 3 weeks to get to Sydney to meet my BF who is coming out to see me for Christmas. I was just wandering about the best way to get from Cairns to Sydney, but missing out Brisbane as we are going to do that together. I have requested to join the Facebook group too as I am over there for 6 months. Hoping to work in Melbourne.

Hi Lindsey, thanks 🙂 You can either fly internally or take the Greyhound bus. I also took the Oz Experience for a sector of my trip. I’m glad you joined the group too.

Hello! Thank you very much for your article! Very useful 🙂 im planning to go to Australia and new zealand next summer, one month Australia and two weeks new zealand. Do you reccomend renting a car going by myself or is it better internal flights, buses and trains? Im planning to do the East coast ( cairns to Sydney) adelaide, Melbourne, uluru, Tasmania and all i can visit for the whole month. Your tips are more than welcome

Thanks Carmen. I definitely recommend visiting Tasmania – it’s so stunning and natural. If you only have one month maybe take a bus for half of the journey up the coast – Adelaide, Melbourne, Tasmania (you can get the ferry here), then fly to Uluru. I was there over 10 years ago so I would recommend joining the Girls about the Globe Facebook group as some of the girls there have recently been or are heading to Oz so they can offer you some better tips. Here’s the link to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Looking to travel solo to Australia from the end of november to mid december 2016, so very soon!! I have no idea where I should begin. Should I go with a tour group? I’m a young 40 year old single female and don’t want to get stuck with a bunch of old people, ha, but I do not want to have to drive while I am there and happy to fly from location to location. Thinking Sydney – Melbourne – Cairns – and the outback somewhere? Not necessarily in that order. No clue how to start!

Hi Marni, I’m 40 too 🙂 There are internal flights you could take and also a great bus service called Greyhound. Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns sounds good then you could fly to Alice Springs in the outback. I was there over 10 years ago so I would recommend joining the Girls about the Globe Facebook group as some of the girls there have recently been or are heading to Oz so they can offer you some better tips. Here’s the link to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hello! I’m planning to visit Australia in the month of January, 2017. Will be there for 3 weeks. Is there any way I can team up with fellow solo travelers and go around? I’m 25 🙂

Hi Shweta. I recommend joining our Girls about the Globe Facebook group to meet other solos 🙂 Here’s the link to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi I have just sent a request to join your Facebook group, I am looking to travel to Australia in April from 14th till 2nd May (nothing booked yet). I will be travelling solo for the first time so a little nervous, ideally I would prefer to join a tour group or other solo travellers and was hoping you can help me prepare an itinerary please?

Hi, I have just accepted your request. Many of the girls have been to Australia recently so post your comment in the group to get some advice 🙂

Hi I am planning to go solo backpacking around the east coast in August/ September. Do you think its still worth going in the winter months -I am traveling alone so am hoping to meet other backpackers there or would it be very quiet? Thank you

Hi Rosie, I lived in Australia for a year and I would say yes but I recommend joining our FB group to ask the same advice in there as some of the girls have been to Australia recently x https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi I’m aiming to travel to Australia for the first time on my own Feb/March and hoping to travel aroundSydney and nearby areas. I’m not a confident traveler so I’ve sent a request to join the facebook page as any advice and tips on how to travel solo would be really helpful. Thanks,. Kath

Hi Kathryn, I’ve just joined you into the group. Welcome 🙂 x

I’m traveling solo to Australia for a month in February. I did send a request to join the group. Thanks so much!

Hi Sharon, let me know if you have any problems joining the group.

Hey, this is really informative, thank you so much! I’m visiting Cairns in early June, and am planning on visiting the Great Barrier Reef then. I was thinking of clubbing a couple days in Gold Coast and maybe 4 days in Sydney after that. Does that sound doable? What would you suggest?

Hi Preethi. Oh wow. June isn’t far away. Clubbing on the East Coast sounds cool! I really liked Surfers Paradise http://www.barsandnightclubs.com.au/gold-coast/ You can take the bus from Surfers to Sydney but it takes about 17 hours which is doable if it’s a night bus or look at taking an internal flight instead. Rome2Rio is good for working out travelling around https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Surfers-Paradise/Sydney . Fee free to join our Facebook community too x https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi, I found this information really useful as I’m travelling solo for the first time ever so I’m a bit apprehensive. Would you recommend booking on to one of the tours before I get there or just fly in and go from there? Also what is the job market like for travellers? Is it easy to find work for short periods of time?

Hi Chantelle, Australia is really easy to travel around as a solo so you don’t need to take a tour if you don’t want to. I used the Greyhound bus to get around, the trains, internal flights, hired a car, and then did a week with Oz Experience just to see what a tour felt like. It was fun and took me off the beaten track. I worked in an office in Sydney and Melbourne and also fruit picked on the coast. This was a few years ago so I’m not sure if it has changed. Are you a member of our Facebook community as someone who has been there recently may be able to help more about the job market now? Here’s the link to join https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/ x

Hi. is it easy to get a Australian Tourist Visa if you are a pinoy solo traveler? Like i have Korean and Taiwan visa and traveled to mostly asian countries, i have work and sufficient funds for only 4 days tour trip in Sydney? Hope to hear from you. 🙂

Hi Mike, I would look at the Australian visa site for your nationality. You can get a tourist visa if you are on a British passport.

Hi! Currently I have a trip booked to allow 7 full days on ground in Australia with flights to/from Sydney. With this being my first trip to Australia, I’m trying to figure out if I should switch one flight to Melbourne and travel in between the two. I really like the idea of hitting Cairens/Sydney/Melbourne based on your blog but with such short time, I’m not with the travel between. Or should I do day trips from Sydney? Thoughts would be appreciated! I’m so grateful I found your blog and just joined the FB page! One other question, have you take an overnight train? Thought that might be an option as well. Thanks! Brooke USA

Hi Brooke, thanks for your questions. I’ve answered your queries in the Facebook group 🙂 x

Hi! I am 27 and going on my first ever solo trip in mid November this year. I am really anxious and not a clue what I am doing it was just a spur of the moment decision. I am thinking of starting off in Cairns (hopefully meeting my best friend for Christmas day) then heading south along the coast. How easy is it to get accommodation over the Christmas period? Also would you recommend starting in Cairns and working your way down? I would love to travel with someone and I am really hoping I meet people!!!

Hi Melanie, I would pre-book accommodation for the Christmas period as it’s also their summer. Yes, I would recommend starting in Cairns and working your way down. I used Greyhound buses which are good and also Oz Experience x

Hi Melanie,

I am also travelling solo in mid November- hoping to start in cairns and work my way down to Sydney before I fly home in February. Have you made any plans yet? I have no idea where to start with hostel booking etc!!

I’m 26 and doing my first solo trip, I’m heading to Asia first doing a tour then heading to Australia mid-dec and nothing planned as yet as really worrying what to do over the christmas/new year period. II’ve just asked on the group for some suggestions, but we could always meet up along the way. I’m definitely doing the east coast, just not sure what way I’m starting yet possibly Sydney upwards but I’ll wait for some suggestions.

My name Imms. I’m planning to have solo trip to Brisbane on Aug ’18. At first, I will have training in Camp Warrawee for 8 days then I’m free to go. Any suggestions, this is my 1st trip to Australia. Can you advise me for the transport also, pls? How many days should I extend my trip? Thanks in advanced.

Hi Imms, I would suggest Sydney and Melbourne if it’s your first time to Oz. The distances are long so it depends how long you have in the country. Taking internal flights is quicker if you are short on time or you can take the Greyhound Bus or Oz Experience. Have you joined our Facebook community? Some of the girls are in Australia at the moment. Here is the link to join https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi, I’m traveling solo to Brisbane for about 4 days in November. Please suggest any places of interest must go in Brisbane as well public transport to take. Thanks in advanced.

Hi Heather, I used the Greyhound bus to get around and spent some time on the Sunshine Coast which is North of Brisbane. Noosa is really nice. I didn’t find much in Brisbane except the zoo. Have you joined our Facebook group? They are a really friendly bunch. Here’s the link to join https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hey – I’m looling to travel travel between October and November this year! Would love to go on some tours and meet people. Are there any tours you recommend where most people are in the same situation as me??

Hi Demi, Oz Experience is great for meeting people. There are so many travellers in Australia that you’ll meet others in hostels x

What about Western Australia? I had friends start their Around Australia trip there andthey were totally blown away by the vastness of the state, the magnificent beaches, friendly people and so many great sights: Perth’s King’s Park, Swan River, The Pinnacles, Wave Rock, seeing the carpets of Wildflowers during the wildflower season, Karri Forests & giant trees, Monkey Mia’s dolphins, Broome, The Horizontal Falls, Cape Leveque, Diving with whale sharks, the Ningaloo Reef, sandboarding at Cervantes…. WA is such a huge state yet tourists all get told to do the East Coast. Why? I’m going to follow my friends advice and fly and travel through Asia then go to WA and start my Australian adventure there.

Hi Sandra, thanks for your comment. You’re right – Western Australia is fantastic and there is a great reef there too. I think the reason that most tourists get told to go to the east coast is because it can be easier to combine on a first-time itinerary with other places x

Hi!! I absolutely love this informative blog. I am planning to go to the Great Barrier Reef by myself, butI am totally confused if i should do the Whitsundays or Cairns. I am short on time so can be to only 1 of these destinations. Would love to know your thoughts.

Hi Sonal, thanks for your kind words. I would choose the Whitsundays over Cairns if I had to only pick one. Whitehaven Beach is one of the most stunning beaches that I have ever seen x

Hey, I loved your article! I’m thinking about getting a one way ticket to Aus by myself, but I have no idea where to start or what to do! Do you have advice? X

Thanks Veronica 🙂 Australia will be amazing! I would start in Sydney then travel up the east coast to Cairns. If you have time take an internal flight or one of the epic train journeys into the Red Centre. Or you could start from Sydney and travel down to Adelaide x

Hey! you should look into adding ‘Share Bus’ to the guide to get around. It’s a great way to meet people/travel in a small group, which is nice if you’ve just arrived as a solo traveller – you can meet people you can spend time with later on in your trip. They organise a shared rental of a minibus and lots of camping equipment as a way of getting to and from big cities/towns in Aus and exploring the nature in between. It’s super flexible and pretty affordable too 🙂

Thanks Jade. I’ll look into this x

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Solo Travel in Australia: Top Tips + What to Know!

Posted on Last updated: July 28, 2023

Let’s first get one thing out of the way: solo travel in Australia is a fantastic idea. Australia is a wonderful country for solo travel as it has SO much to offer, from landscapes and culture to food and history.

Australia is a treasure trove of unforgettable opportunities for solo travelers, and it’s a frequented spot for backpackers, gap year adventurers, and first-time visitors. But what should you know before solo traveling in Australia?

I have lived in Australia on and off for many years. I started by solo traveling around the whole country, then I lived/worked in Sydney and did my farm work in Western Australia. I came back and did my second-year working holiday visa in Melbourne. I traveled more, met an Aussie boy, and have been returning and living there on and off ever since (and have visited every state/territory now)! So I would love to share some knowledge from my experiences in Australia to help yours.

You are in the right place if you want to know the best places to go and stay while solo traveling in Australia, how to get around, how to save money, how to make friends, which visa options you have, and information about safety, working, and top experiences for solo travelers.

FAQ About Solo Travel in Australia

Yes! With standard precautions and vigilance, solo travel in Australia is very safe. The crime rate in Australia is very low and the government/political system is stable. The police are friendly and trustworthy for the most part, and most communities and public transport is very safe even for a solo traveler.

First, pick a destination to start from! This will likely be Sydney or Melbourne as these are the best cities to travel from. Next, pick your accommodation (many solo travelers in Australia choose hostels to meet people). Then, figure out your itinerary and transport. Many opt for busses, rental cars, or group tours. Then, enjoy! Keep reading for more info.

This depends where you are going, but ideally the best time to solo travel in Australia is during the Aussie summer, which is about December to March. You will want to spend the hottest months farther south (think, Jan and Feb in Melbourne, Tasmania, etc) and spend the shoulder seasons farther north (think Nov-Dec or March-April in Queensland, Perth, Sydney) as they will remain warmer longer.

Where to Stay While Solo Traveling in Australia

My best tip for solo travel in Australia would be to stay in hostels! When staying at hostels, you are never truly solo because you can always meet friends who also want to explore and enjoy the country. Hostels are also the most affordable accommodation option while traveling in Australia (and many have private rooms, too)!

To meet other travelers, simply chat with people in your room or head to the common room and join group activities, and already you are solo no longer! Hostels are a uniquely social and inclusive space perfect for solo travel. I have included some top hostel recommendations for each destination below.

Best Places to Travel Solo in Australia & What to Do There

There are so many EPIC places to visit when you solo travel in Australia that it’s hard to narrow it down. Here is a brief overview of the best places to travel solo in Australia and why, and the top things to do in each place. Keep scrolling past destinations for my top tips for solo travel in Australia.

Victoria + Melbourne

Melbourne is my beloved city that I fell in love with (and also fell in love with a local)! I have spent over 2 years in and around Melbourne/Victoria and think this is the most welcoming place for a solo traveler in Australia to begin their journey. People here are a bit more open to making friends than they are in Sydney, and there are some awesome things to do in/around Melbourne:

• Great Ocean Road Trip is the number 1 thing you MUST do in Victoria (and I recommend this day tour or check out my Great Ocean Road self-drive itinerary if you rent a car)
• Other day trips from Melbourne in my post here
• Explore the city, tiny laneways, hidden bars, amazing food, coffee shops, nightlife, beaches, museums, and more! Here are the best places to visit in Melbourne organized by suburb.

Top Hostel Recommendation : Nomads St Kilda (formerly Bse Backpackers) is awesome. St Kilda is the most backpacker-y area of Melbourne with more opportunities to make friends, and you can easily tram into the city (and my friend manages it)!

New South Wales

New South Wales has some iconic destinations. Here are the best for solo travel in Australia.

Sydney is home to iconic attractions that define Australia, such as the majestic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Bondi Beach hosts some of the finest surfing experiences worldwide and is ideal for backpackers and beach time, as well as Manly Beach (where I lived when I first moved to Australia). Here are some of the best things to do in Sydney:

• Do the Harbor Bridge Climb , hit beaches like Bondi, Manly, and more, do a Sydney harbor cruise, and check out some amazing coastal walks in Sydney
• Experience the Nightlife: Sydney has great nightlife, from the bar scene to some cool clubs like S.A.S.H or The Star Casino, a luxurious 5-star hotel where many nights out in Sydney tend to end up. When you end up here, you’ll find live entertainment and Australian online pokies to enjoy while your buzz wears off 😉

Top Hostel Recommendation : the Sydney Harbor YHA is an obvious choice for a central and social hostel in Sydney where you can’t go wrong!

Byron Bay is the quintessential Aussie hippie surf town with amazing views, great weather, and amazing vibes. Byron is a great place to learn to surf or scuba dive, or bse yourself for visits to surrounding hotspots like Nimbin or Springbrook National Park.

Top Hostel recommendation : Cape Byron YHA is EPIC, central, and social with a geat pool.

Queensland is the most tropical state of Australia with the most cities and places to visit for solo travelers. Here are the min places to know:

Cairns is a prime spot for solo outdoorsy travelers to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in iconic spots such as the Daintree Forest and the Great Barrier Reef. Take a cruise along a river in the forest and witness nature up close – think rare birds, goannas, manta rays, and turtles – or learn to dive on the Great Barrier Reef itself.

Top Hostel recommendation : Gilligan’s is the choice for Cairns – one of the coolest hostels in Australia!

The Gold Coast is an iconic beach town in Queensland known for party vibes, surfing, and great views. Go to the SkyPoint Observation deck in the Q1 tower, hike at Burleigh Heads, and try cute cafes and bumping bars.

Top Hostel recommendation : BUNK Surfer’s Paradise is a Gold Coast favorite in a fantastic location!

Fraser Island / K’gari

The largest sand island in the world is full of adventures and perfect for solo travel in Australia! I recommend booking a day trip to Fraser Island (or a multi-day trip which includes accommodation) to experience the 70-mile sand beach, Lake Mckenzie, and more!

Whitsundays

The Whitsunday Islands are one of the most visited places in Australia for a reason! They are great for solo travelers because solos can join a group sailing trip through the Whitsundays for a few nights for an epic experience with new friends. It’s also great to stay in a hostel in Airlie Beach for a few days.

Western Australia + Perth

Western Australia is by far the largest state in Australia which is home to tons to do (and lots of farmland and desert too)! The West Coast is not as popular to travel as the East Coast because there’s not as much to do, but here are some top ideas:

• Explore Perth and its amazing beaches
• Head to Margaret River for great wine, and famous beach towns like Busselton and Albany
• Swim with Whale Sharks in Exmouth, explore the beaches or Broome, or the red rocky Kimberley Coast

Top Hostel recommendation : Start in Perth at Spinner’s Backpackers right in the center and meet friends to explore with!

Northern Territory: Uluru

It’s well worthwhile to make it to Australia’s ‘red center.’ From incredible historic aboriginal legends to incredible landscapes, this is the true Australia that you may have imagined before arriving! There are only a few places to stay, but my guide to Uluru accommodation will help you pick – for solo travel, the hostel and campground are the best bet.

Transport: How to Move Around When You Travel Australia Solo

It’s no secret that Australia is a MASSIVE country. So what are the best ways to get around? Here are the best ways to move around solo, or see below for group tours to join as a solo traveler.

Flights: Honestly, most people just fly between Australian cities. It’s not worth the bus journey! You will likely need to fly between places like Sydney and Melbourne, and you will DEFINITELY have to fly in/out of Perth, Uluru, and Cairns. Book Qantas or Vigin if you can afford it; Jetstar is the budget airline.

Greyhound Busses: If you are traveling up the coast, you might want to opt for a bus. Australia has greyhound busses that can take you longer distances.

Trains: Trains in Australia are more for city transport than long distance travel, but there are decent train lines in Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. You can also book the famous Ghan train from Adelaide to Darwin! Learn more about train travel in Australia.

Rent a Car: For shorter journeys, the BEST way to explore Australia is definitely by having a car. It will be cheaper to share with new hostel friends.

Buy a Car/Van and Sell it at the End: Lots of travelers purchase vans/cars in Sydney/Melbourne and drive them up to Cairns (or vice versa) and sell them at the end. This is easier for long term/distance travel to have much more freedom at a better price.

Rideshare: Rideshare/carpooling is not as massive in Australia as it is in Europe, but it exists! Check out Coseats to join or post rides.

Group Tours: Th most painless way to travel Australia solo is by booking a group tour, which is what I did. See below.

Booking Group Tours to Travel Australia

When traveling solo in Australia, you will more than likely join group tours multiple times. Group tours allow you to meet people and simplify costs and travel.

You will likely book group trips to places like the Whitsundays, Great Barrier reef sailing, wine tasting, day trips, and more, and you will probably want to join groups for things like walking tours, surfing lessons, and yoga classes. But you can make planning even easier on yourself by booking a multi-destination group tour.

When I first arrived in Australia, I booked a 28-day Topdeck tour that went from Melborne to Adelaide and Uluru, over to Cairns and down to Sydney. It was the most EPIC way to see more of the country than many locals, and leave the planning to the experts while enjoying myself and making friends + memories.

The exact tour I did is not available anymore, but this tour with well-liked Globus is the most similar available currently.

Top Tips for Solo Travel in Australia

Here are the final tips to have the BEST experience solo traveling in Australia.

Consider a Working Visa to Work + Fund Your Trip!

Australia is one of the most popular countries for many young people from around the word to live and work in for a year or two. Australia offers the amazing working holiday visa to people under 30-35 to live and work in the country for a year with the opportunity to extend.

If you have time and are in the right age group, working in Australia is a great way to make a lot of money fast. Wages here are some of the highest in the world, and working is a great way to make friends, too. Learn more about moving to Australia on a WHV in my guide here.

If you want to have your hand held a bit more, check out this amazing company called Global Work & Travel . They help you apply for your visa, get transport to the country, and help you with your phone plan, bank account, housing, and even job interviews. They have built-in social events with a group of people who move at the same time. They are awesome!

Make Sure You Have a Visa in General

Even if you don’t opt for a working visa, you will at least need a tourist visa – likely the ETA ( which is good for 3 months at a time).

Everyone arriving must ensure that they are carrying a valid visa before entering Australia. Applications for this visa should be lodged in your country of origin. Alongside this, it is essential to have the financial and medical resources to gain entry and suitable travel insurance coverage throughout the journey.

Choosing the right kind of Australian tourist visa requires consideration of factors including the length of stay, passport country, age of traveler, and potential desire to work during the trip. Each has an effect on which visa is best suited to ensure the most enjoyable experience for all visitors:

• Visitor visa (600): Allows tourism visits to Australia for up to three months in duration or up to 12 months in certain instances. The visa is available to persons of any nationality.
• Working Holiday Visa (417): Enables individuals aged 18 to 35 to spend up to 12 months in the Land Down Under while participating in seasonal employment opportunities to help fund your exploration. However, certain nationality restrictions must be taken into consideration before applying.
• Electronic Travel Authority visa (601): This visa is designed exclusively for travelers from select nations and grants them access to multiple trips to Australia within a period of one year, each of which can last up to three months.

Stay in Hostels

As I mentioned, the best way to not feel alone when traveling solo is by staying in hostels. It’s so natural to meet people in hostels and you’ll leave with tons of new friends.

Go with the Flow – Leave Room for Flexibility!

One of the most important things to remember when traveling solo is that the unexpected can – and will – happen (in great ways and some not so much)! Always be flexible when traveling solo and leave your options open for interesting opportunities to arise.

Don’t be Afraid to Eat Solo + Chase Specials

Don’t be afraid to eat alone in Australia! It’s not strange (I do it ALL the time to this day) and is a great way to become comfortable being alone. Many hostels also have cafes that are very solo traveler-friendly.

Australia is full of weekly specials if you are on a budget. Pubs often have a deal each day of the week, such as an affordable chicken parma + drink or a hamburger, so many sure to check up on these.

For a truly social experience, you can try communal tables in restaurants or bustling food markets like Mindil Beach Sunset Market in Darwin, Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne, or Adelaide Central Market. 

How to Meet People When Traveling Australia Solo

Going solo when traveling can open up vast opportunities to get out of your comfort zone. Widen your horizon by connecting with new people in more ways than just one – whether it’s partaking in exciting experiences like climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, 4-wheel driving on Fraser Island, and even indulging in a wine-tasting tour at the Barossa Valley.

Talk to strangers – you never know who could be a new friend. This is true especially in hostels, where everyone is open to meeting new people who want to explore. Joining a group tour as I mentioned above is also one of the best ways to meet people.

If you are staying in one place, try joining meetup events, sports teams, or even pub crawls to get yourself out there. There are now ‘friend’ options on many dating apps such as Bumble BFF.

With that being said, exploring some of Australia’s natural landscapes, such as Uluru at sunset and the twists and turns of the Great Ocean Road, provides the perfect excuse to venture out alone. Solo travel definitely allows for some much-needed self-reflection, creating an opportunity to discover something new about yourself. So don’t miss out on solo time, too.

Safety Tips for Solo Travel in Australia

As I already mentioned, Asutralia is a very safe country to travel. But here are a few things to think about:

• Not all places have wifi, especially in the more remote areas and islands (or it will cost money). It’s getting better, but Australia’s broadband is at lest a decade behind! Check for wifi in places you stay beforehand.
• Be sun safe! It’s true what they say – the ozone layer is actually thinner down under, and the sun is a LOT stronger than you may be used to, especially in summer. Lather sunscreen on, and don’t forget hats, glasses, and sun protection.
• Be vigilant – use precautions that you would use anywhere else! Travel in the daytime when you can, make sure someone always knows where you are, and have copies of your documents on hand just in case.

Travel Insurance

Make sure you have travel insurance ALWAYS when traveling – Australia included. I use Heymondo, check out our review and discount link here.

Experience Aboriginal History

Make sure to learn about the rich aboriginal history when you come to Australia. Although there’s an awful and turbulent history with colonization, the Aboriginal culture is being preserved now in many ways and there are a lot of places you can experience it firsthand. Some of the best places are Uluru, the Grampians, and more.

Beware of Aussie Budget Airlines

Qantas and Virgin are the best airlines, but more pricey. Cheaper carriers like Jetstar will always weight your bags (even your carry-on) so make sure to be aware.

Prepare for jet lag, too, as most people travel far to get here!

Mindset Tips – Learn to Appreciate Being on Your Own

Although you get used to making friends quite fast while solo traveling, don’t lose thought of why you went solo in the first place. Use this amazing time to learn to love being alone and doing everything yourself. Step outside your comfort zone and push some boundaries, as it will help you learn more about yourself along the way.

Best Experiences for Solo Travelers in Australia

There are too many experiences to count! I have mentioned many above in the ‘best destinations for solo travel in Australia’ section, but here are a few important ones to get to if you can:

• Sydney Harbor Bridge Climb
• Great Ocean Road Trip (Melbourne)
• Sunrise at Uluru
• Road trip the East Coast
• Surfing Lessons (Manly, Byron Bay, Bondi, or others)
• Boat Trip or Scuba Diving the Great Barrier Reef

Solo Travel in Australia Itinerary

Many people do a loop (ish) of Australia, but the best first time option would be to road trip the East Coast from Sydney to Cairns and then visit Uluru and Melbourne. This A ustralia solo travel itinerary is a great point to start!

What to Pack for Solo Travel in Australia

Here are some things you can’t forget when solo traveling in Australia:

• Sun protection (hats, glasses, sunscreen)
• Warm weather clothes (some places get cold, like Melbourne ‘the city of 4 seasons in one day”)
• Umbrella and rain shell – it does rain!
• Hiking shoes or athletic shoes for the outdoors
• Sandals and comfy shoes like Birkenstocks
• Cameras to document your adventures
• Tripod to take content of yourself when alone
• Smartphone and laptop/iPad if needed
• Australian SIM card (Telstra and Optus are the biggest providers)
• Toiletries and meds you need
• Enough money to last your trip (they might as at immigration)

I hope this guide has helped you plan for solo travel in Australia. Feel free to DM me on Instagram if you have any questions about your trip!

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Solo Travel Australia: A Comprehensive Guide for the Intrepid Explorer

Home » Solo Travel Australia: A Comprehensive Guide for the Intrepid Explorer

Embarking on a solo trip to Australia is more than just a journey; it’s a doorway to self-discovery and adventure in one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse destinations.

This comprehensive guide is your ultimate companion, unveiling the myriad of experiences that await the solo traveller in the land down under.

From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the untouched wilderness of Western Australia, Australia is a mosaic of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and boundless adventure.

Whether you’re seeking personal growth, thrilling escapades, or a serene escape, Australia offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every kind of solo traveller.

Why Australia is a Top Destination for Solo Travelers

Australia, known for its welcoming nature and safe country atmosphere, stands out as a top destination for solo travel. It’s a place where adventure and safety coexist, offering solo travellers a sense of ease and comfort.

The country’s extensive network of Greyhound buses and well-connected flights make navigating this vast land a breeze, even for first-timers on their first solo trip.

Australian cities like Melbourne and Sydney buzz with multicultural vibrancy, offering solo travellers a chance to immerse themselves in a dynamic urban setting.

Venture beyond the major cities, and you’ll find a treasure trove of solo travel destinations – from the coral-rich Great Barrier Reef to the rugged beauty of the Northern Territory.

Each destination in Australia is a chapter of its own, filled with stories waiting to be discovered by solo travellers like you.

The Solo Traveler’s Itinerary: Unmissable Australian Experiences

Australia it’s a dream destination for solo travellers. It offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that cater to every taste and interest.

This vast land, ranging from bustling cities to remote wilderness, provides an array of activities and sights that make it a solo travel paradise.

Here’s a guide to some unmissable experiences that should feature on every solo traveller’s itinerary.

The Urban Explorer’s Delight: Sydney and Melbourne

For the urban explorer, Sydney and Melbourne are not to be missed. These major cities are a blend of vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and culinary delights, making them perfect for solo travellers.

Sydney is the pulsating heart of New South Wales, home to the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

It’s a city where history meets modernity. Wander through the bustling streets, relax at Bondi Beach, or take a ferry to explore the picturesque Sydney Harbour.

For the adventurous, a day trip to the Blue Mountains offers breathtaking natural beauty.

Known for its artistic alleys, Melbourne is a hub of culture and cuisine.

Explore the Queen Victoria Market for some delicious food, or immerse yourself in the city’s history at the Melbourne Museum.

The city is also a gateway to the Great Ocean Road, an epic road trip that promises stunning coastal views and unique wildlife encounters.

Embracing Nature: Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Forest

For those who yearn to be close to nature, the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Forest are essential stops.

Great Barrier Reef

As the world’s largest coral reef system, it’s a haven for divers and snorkelers.

This UNESCO World Heritage site, abundant with marine biodiversity, provides an unmatched underwater adventure.

Whether on a group tour or a solitary expedition, the Great Barrier Reef is a must-visit for any solo traveller in Australia.

Daintree Forest

Adjacent to the reef, the ancient Daintree Rainforest is a living museum of flora and fauna.

Embark on guided nature walks, night tours, or simply bask in the tranquility of this lush, tropical paradise.

It’s a place where solo travellers can connect with nature and witness the timeless dance of ecological harmony.

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The adventure seeker’s paradise: northern territory and outback.

For the adventure seekers, the Northern Territory and the Australian Outback are the epitomes of thrill and excitement.

Northern Territory

From the vibrant hues of Uluru (Ayers Rock) in the Red Centre to the floodplains of Kakadu National Park, the Northern Territory offers a glimpse into Australia’s heart and soul.

Here, solo travellers can learn about Indigenous culture, experience the rugged Outback, and witness some of the country’s most iconic natural landscapes.

The Outback

An exploration of the Australian Outback is a journey into the country’s soul.

Whether it’s a road trip along the dusty tracks or a visit to the remote town of Alice Springs, the Outback experience is about embracing the vast, open spaces and the unique wildlife.

It’s an ideal destination for solo travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and delve into an authentic Australian adventure.

Island Escapes: Tasmania, Magnetic Island, and Whitsundays

Australia’s islands offer a unique blend of tranquility and adventure for solo travellers.

From the rugged wilderness of Tasmania to the tropical allure of Magnetic Island and the azure waters of the Whitsundays, these islands are a must-visit.

A haven for nature lovers, Tasmania’s raw beauty is captivating.

Explore the pristine beaches of the Bay of Fires, hike through the untouched wilderness of Cradle Mountain, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Port Arthur.

Tasmania is perfect for solo travellers seeking a peaceful retreat or an outdoor adventure in national parks.

Magnetic Island

Just off the coast of Townsville, Magnetic Island is an enchanting tropical island.

Known for its abundant wildlife, especially koalas, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Enjoy hiking, snorkeling, and the serene beaches.

For solo travellers, it’s a place to connect with nature and enjoy the laid-back island life.

Whitsundays

The Whitsundays, located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, are a tropical paradise.

Join a group tour or charter a yacht to sail around this archipelago, visiting famous spots like Whitehaven Beach.

It’s an ideal destination for solo travellers who love the ocean and want to explore one of the world’s most stunning reef systems.

The Coastal Trail: Gold Coast to Byron Bay

Travelling from the Gold Coast to Byron Bay presents an iconic Australian road trip. The journey is filled with golden beaches, surfing hotspots, and vibrant coastal towns.

• Gold Coast: Known for its high-rise skyline, the Gold Coast is a hub for solo travellers seeking both excitement and relaxation. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, theme parks, and some of Australia’s best surf breaks.
• Byron Bay: Continuing south, reach the laid-back town of Byron Bay. Renowned for its surfing, alternative lifestyles, and stunning hinterland, it’s a place where solo travellers can unwind, meet locals, and join wellness retreats.

The Wine Enthusiast’s Journey: South Australia’s Vineyards

South Australia is a paradise for wine enthusiasts. The region’s vineyards offer a delightful experience for solo travellers interested in wine tasting and learning about viticulture.

Visit the Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, and McLaren Vale to sample some of the world’s finest wines.

Many vineyards offer tours and tastings, providing an excellent opportunity to meet fellow travellers and indulge in the region’s gourmet food and wine.

The Heart of Australia: Alice Springs and Indigenous Culture

Alice Springs, in the Northern Territory, is the gateway to the Australian Outback and a center for Indigenous culture. It’s a place of deep spiritual significance and natural beauty.

Explore the Aboriginal art galleries, learn about the local Arrernte people, and take guided tours to understand the region’s rich heritage.

A trip to Alice Springs offers solo travellers an authentic and culturally enriching experience, connecting them with the ancient heart of Australia.

Off the Beaten Path: Unique Solo Travel Experiences

Exploring Australia doesn’t have to be confined to the well-trodden paths.

For solo travellers looking to venture beyond the typical tourist spots, Australia is a land brimming with unique experiences and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

Discovering Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Australian Wonders

Australia’s lesser-known destinations offer many travellers an opportunity to explore the country’s hidden gems, away from the crowds. Here are some off-the-beaten-path experiences:

• Kangaroo Island, South Australia: This island is a wildlife haven, home to sea lions, kangaroos, and koalas. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape. Experience its rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, and enjoy a night tour to see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat.
• The Pinnacles, Western Australia: In Nambung National Park, the Pinnacles are ancient limestone formations set against the backdrop of a golden desert. This surreal landscape is ideal for a unique day trip and offers stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
• Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory: While Kakadu National Park gets most of the attention, nearby Litchfield is equally impressive with its waterfalls, swimming holes, and termite mounds. It’s a refreshing retreat from the city’s hustle and offers a more intimate encounter with the Australian wilderness.

Eco-friendly Adventures: Sustainable Travel Choices

For solo travellers committed to sustainable travel, Australia offers plenty of eco-friendly adventures that minimize environmental impact while maximizing the experience.

Eco Tours in Tasmania

Tasmania is renowned for its untouched natural beauty. Engage in eco-tours that focus on wildlife conservation and learn about the island’s unique ecology. Hike through ancient rainforests and explore the Tarkine Wilderness – an area rich in Aboriginal heritage.

Solar-Powered Accommodations

Across Australia, you can find a range of eco-friendly accommodations, from solar-powered hostels in Byron Bay to luxury eco-lodges in the Daintree Rainforest. These stays offer a comfortable and responsible way to enjoy Australia’s natural beauty.

Community-Based Tourism in the Kimberley

In Western Australia’s Kimberley region, engage in community-based tourism initiatives. Participate in cultural tours led by Indigenous Australians, offering a deeper understanding of the local heritage and supporting the community directly.

These unique experiences not only add depth to your solo journey in Australia but also contribute positively to preserving the country’s natural and cultural heritage.

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Enhancing your solo journey: cultural and recreational activities.

Australia offers a rich tapestry of cultural and recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for solo travellers seeking both enlightenment and excitement.

From world-class museums to outdoor adventures, there’s an array of experiences to enhance your solo journey.

Dive into Australian Culture: Museums, Galleries, and Historical Sites

Australia’s cultural landscape is as diverse as its natural one. Here’s how you can immerse yourself in it:

Major Cities’ Cultural Beacons

In cities like Sydney and Melbourne, visit iconic institutions such as the Sydney Opera House and the Melbourne Museum.

These cities are not just architectural marvels but also host a variety of performances and exhibitions that showcase both traditional and contemporary arts.

Indigenous Heritage Sites

To understand Australia’s rich history, explore Indigenous heritage sites.

The ancient rock art in Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory offers a glimpse into the lives of the world’s oldest living culture.

Historical Day Trips

In New South Wales and South Australia, historical towns like Broken Hill and Hahndorf provide unique insights into Australia’s past.

These towns, rich in colonial and mining history, offer a contrast to the modern vibrancy of major cities.

The Active Traveler: Outdoor Sports and Adventures

Australia’s vast and varied landscape is a playground for the active solo traveller. Here are some activities to get your adrenaline pumping:

• Surfing at Iconic Beaches: From the famous Bondi Beach in Sydney to the surf spots of the Gold Coast, catch some waves and experience Australia’s renowned beach culture.
• Hiking National Parks: For those who love to hike, Australia’s national parks offer everything from coastal walks in New South Wales to challenging treks in the Grampians National Park in Victoria.
• Adventure Sports in the Outback: For a unique experience, head to the Northern Territory. Here, you can embark on a quad bike adventure in the outback, offering a mix of thrill and the opportunity to witness stunning landscapes and pristine beaches.

These cultural and recreational activities not only enrich your solo travel experience but also connect you deeply with Australia’s heritage and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring a museum or surfing a wave, each experience contributes to a fulfilling and memorable solo journey.

Solo Travel Australia: Navigating Seasons and Regions

Australia’s diverse climate and vast landscapes offer something unique in each region and season, making it a fantastic solo travel destination year-round.

Understanding the regional climates and seasonal highlights can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Best Time to Travel: Seasonal Highlights in Australia

Australia’s seasons are the reverse of those in the Northern Hemisphere. The summer months (December to February) are perfect for beach enthusiasts, especially along the east coast and in places like the Gold Coast and Byron Bay, where you can enjoy pristine beaches and vibrant coastal culture.

During autumn (March to May), the weather is milder, ideal for exploring national parks and outdoor activities without the extreme heat. This is also a great time for road trips through South Australia’s wine regions or the scenic drives in New South Wales.

Winter (June to August) offers its own charm, especially in the northern regions like the Northern Territory, where the dry season provides comfortable temperatures for exploring the Kakadu National Park and other natural wonders.

Spring (September to November) is a magical time to witness the country’s natural beauty. In Western Australia, wildflower season is at its peak, creating a spectacular display. Also, this is a prime time for whale watching along the southern coasts.

Regional Travel Tips: From Tropical North to Southern Coasts

Northern Australia

Northern Australia, encompassing Queensland and the Northern Territory, is known for its tropical climate.Here, the wet season (November to April) brings heavy rains and humidity, but also lush greenery and waterfalls in full flow. The Great Barrier Reef is a year-round destination, but the best visibility for snorkeling and diving is during the dry season (May to October).

Southern Australia

Southern Australia, including cities like Melbourne and Adelaide, experiences cooler temperatures, especially in winter. Cultural activities, indoor museums like the Melbourne Museum, and cozy cafes become particularly appealing.

The East Coast

The east coast, stretching from the Gold Coast to Byron Bay, is a haven for beach lovers, surfers, and those looking to connect with fellow travellers. The climate here is generally mild and conducive to outdoor activities year-round.

Remember, each region in Australia has its own unique charm and optimal travel time.

By aligning your solo trip with these regional characteristics, you can maximize the enjoyment and discovery on your Australian adventure.

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The solo traveler’s toolkit: accommodations, transport, and budgeting.

Traveling solo in Australia offers the freedom to tailor your journey to your personal preferences, particularly when it comes to accommodations, transport, and budgeting.

Let’s dive into the essentials to ensure your solo travel in Australia is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Where to Stay: From Hostels to Boutique Hotels

Accommodation options in Australia cater to every taste and budget.

Hostels are a popular choice among solo travellers, providing not just a place to stay but a chance to meet fellow travellers.

Cities like Sydney and Melbourne boast a range of hostels, from the budget-friendly dorms to private rooms offering more comfort.

For a unique experience, boutique hotels and Airbnb properties offer a more intimate and personalized stay.

In scenic areas like Byron Bay or along the Great Barrier Reef, resorts and beachfront accommodations provide a luxurious escape.

Getting Around: Public Transportation and Car Rentals

Australia’s major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane have extensive public transportation networks, including buses, trains, and ferries, making it easy to navigate the urban landscape.

The Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Melbourne Museum are easily accessible via public transport.

For those wanting to explore more remote areas like the outback in the Northern Territory or the scenic drives along the Gold Coast, renting a car or a campervan can offer the flexibility and freedom desired on a solo trip.

Don’t forget to consider a greyhound bus pass for long-distance travel, a budget-friendly and convenient option for travelling Australia.

Budgeting for Your Solo Adventure

Effective budgeting is key to a fulfilling solo travel experience.

Australia offers options for every price range, from saving money on accommodations by staying in hostels or shared Airbnb properties to splurging on once-in-a-lifetime experiences like a night tour of the Great Barrier Reef or a wine tasting tour in South Australia.

Street food markets and local eateries offer delicious food at affordable prices. It’s also wise to set aside funds for activities and experiences unique to each region, like a whale watching trip in New South Wales or a day trip to Fraser Island.

For peace of mind, investing in travel insurance is highly recommended, particularly for activities like adventure sports or remote area travel.

With the right tools in your toolkit, your solo travel in Australia can be an enriching journey of discovery and personal growth, offering the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Staying Safe and Connected: Essential Tips for Solo Travellers

Keeping safe and connected is paramount to ensure that your solo travel journey is as enjoyable as it is memorable.

Let’s explore some key tips to help you navigate these aspects with confidence.

Navigating Safety in Australia

Australia is generally a safe country for travellers, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Here are some safety tips:

• Research the area: Before arriving at your destination, research the local area. This includes understanding the safety of neighborhoods, especially in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
• Stay aware of wildlife and natural hazards: From the Great Barrier Reef to Kakadu National Park, Australia’s natural wonders come with their own set of risks, like marine life or wet season conditions.
• Keep emergency numbers handy: Know the local emergency numbers and have them saved in your phone.
• Use trusted transportation: Utilize reputable transport options, especially when travelling in remote areas like the Northern Territory or along the East Coast.
• Travel insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, theft, and any high-risk activities you plan to undertake.

Socializing and Meeting Fellow Travelers

Solo travel doesn’t have to mean loneliness. Australia offers numerous opportunities to meet fellow travellers and locals:

• Stay in social accommodations: Hostels, guesthouses, and shared Airbnb rentals are great places to meet other travellers and exchange tips. Many hostels in Byron Bay and the Gold Coast organize social events.
• Join local tours or group activities: Participating in a group tour or activity like a wine tasting in South Australia, a night tour in the Daintree Rainforest, or a surfing lesson in Bondi Beach can be a fun way to meet people.
• Use social media and travel apps: Connect with other solo travellers is as easy as join a Facebook group or a travel app. Look for groups specific to solo travelling in Australia.
• Attend local events and festivals: Australia’s vibrant culture is showcased in its numerous festivals and events, a fantastic way to meet locals and immerse yourself in the local scene.

By following these safety tips and embracing the social aspect of travelling, your solo journey through Australia can be both a secure and socially enriching adventure, paving the way for unforgettable experiences and lasting connections.

Wrapping Up: The Unforgettable Journey of Solo Travel in Australia

Our journey through the comprehensive guide to solo travel in Australia has been an enlightening path, illuminating the best this magnificent country has to offer for the solo traveller.

From the bustling major cities to the serene national parks, Australia promises an enriching experience filled with adventure, culture, and personal growth.

Whether you are exploring the Great Barrier Reef or socializing with fellow travellers in Byron Bay, your Australian solo adventure is sure to be a memorable one.

Remember, every trip you take is not just a journey through new landscapes, but also an exploration of yourself.

Do you want to know the secrets of the most visited countries? Discover our best guides about solo travel

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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel in Australia

Is australia safe for solo travellers.

Absolutely! Australia is considered a safe country for travelling solo. However, it’s always recommended to take normal safety precautions, especially when exploring remote areas like the Outback.

What are the best destinations for solo travel in Australia?

Solo travel destinations in Australia vary widely, from Sydney Opera House and Melbourne’s laneways to Fraser Island and the Gold Coast. Each offers unique experiences, from city exploration to natural wonders.

How can I meet other solo travellers in Australia?

Hostels, social events, and Facebook groups dedicated to travel in Australia are great ways to meet other solo travellers. Additionally, joining group tours or activities like wine tasting in South Australia can also provide opportunities to connect.

What should I know about travelling during the wet season?

During the wet season, particularly in northern areas like Queensland, expect heavy rains and possible cyclones. It’s essential to check weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Can I solo travel in Australia on a budget?

Yes, budget-friendly options are available. Consider saving money by staying in hostels, using greyhound buses for transportation, and eating at local markets like the Queen Victoria Market.

What are some tips for a first solo travel in Australia?

For your first solo trip, plan your itinerary in advance, stay in safe and social accommodations, and don’t hesitate to join tour groups for certain activities. Also, make sure to have travel insurance.

Are there unique experiences for solo travellers in Australia’s national parks?

Definitely! Australia’s national parks offer unique experiences like wildlife spotting in Kakadu National Park, hiking in the Blue Mountains, and exploring ancient rainforests.

How do I handle emergency situations while travelling solo?

Always keep emergency numbers handy, inform someone about your travel plans, especially if heading into remote areas like the Northern Territory, and have an emergency plan in place.

What cultural experiences should I not miss as a solo traveller in Australia?

Don’t miss visiting significant cultural sites like the Sydney Opera House, indigenous tours in Alice Springs, and exploring the art scene in Melbourne’s galleries.

How can I ensure a sustainable and eco-friendly experience on my solo travel in Australia?

Opt for eco-friendly tours, stay in sustainable accommodations, and respect nature reserves and wildlife. Participating in eco-conscious activities like beach clean-ups can also be a rewarding experience.

Carlos De Lanuza

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A complete guide to solo travel in Australia

Updated On 23rd February, 2024

Solo travel in Australia is a dream on many peoples bucket lists and well, it is not hard to see why,

Maybe it’s the tropical climates, the wildlife, the laid-back beachy lifestyle, the epic road trips or the backpacker goals lifestyle that has you dreaming of a trip down under, or maybe it’s a combination of them all?

Whatever it is, if you’re looking for a guide to solo travel in Australia, look no further. I got you!

I’ve solo travelled through Australia on 4 (fortunate) occasions now and so in this travel guide, I am going to share with you all the tips, tricks and knowledge I have from my solo travel in Australia.

Get your pen and paper at the ready, by the end of this post you will have all the inspiration ready to book your solo trip to Australia.  You will not regret it!

Other blog posts/guides you may find useful:

• Australia Travel Guide
• Farm work in Australia: Finding a job, top tips and advice
• Visiting Fraser Island and The Whitsundays: Australia on a backpacker budget
• A guide to freedom camping on the east coast of Australia
• Hiring a camper van in Australia and New Zealand: Your questions answered
• A complete guide to budgeting for backpacking Australia
• 13 ways to save money whilst backpacking Australia

My complete guide to solo travel in Australia…

Whether you are planning a 3-week solo trip, a couple of months travelling or even a whole year on a  Working Holiday Visa , Australia is a world-class location to do all three in. I don’t even know where to start luring you in with adventures I’ve been on here; I’ve had  so many  incredible ones. Here are a few blog posts to get you started…

• The best things to do in Australia
• Cairns to Sydney: The alternative East Coast Australia bucket list

It’s in Australia that you’ll be able to sail the beautiful  Whitsunday Islands , snorkel or scuba dive on the  Great Barrier Reef , explore  Fraser Island ,  Skydive , hang out in  Sydney  or  Melbourne  and of course visit the ultimate surf town of  Byron Bay…  and you can do it all solo!

Solo travel in Australia is so easy, particularly when compared to other countries so don’t worry about meeting people, being on your own or not having people to travel with. Australia is a haven for solo travellers. I’d say its one of my top 3 recommendations for a first-time solo traveller.

For the ultimate East Coast Australia bucket list,  check out this post.

For an alternative East Coast Australia bucket list,  check out this post.

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Is solo travelling popular in Australia?

The answer is a massive  YES .

If you’re part of the Global Travellers Facebook group ( join here ), you’ll see that the majority of the conversations about Australia are all about solo travel and even arranging meet-ups. There are SO many people doing it and there’s so many of you in the same boat – it’s just about putting yourself in the right places to find eachother.  I got you!

I’m sure many will vouch for me when I say,  ‘the moment you arrive in Australia, you realise how easy it is to navigate solo’.

I get it though, it’s a daunting thought going it alone and so it might seem super tempting to join, say a 30-day organised group tour instead. Group tours have their place in Australia for sure and if you really need to ease yourself in with an ‘intro’ one – by all means rock it. However you can end up paying  a lot  for these tours and then wishing you’d been smarter with your pennies.

Instead, I’d recommend simply booking small bits of your trips separately, e.g. transport, hostels and some of the main tours. All of the latter are all set up in a way that allows for backpackers to be spontaneous if they want. Then step out of your comfort zone, take a leap of faith and go solo travelling in Australia!

If you change your mind, you can always book onto a group tour when you’re there but… I believe in you!

Don’t forget!  My good friend Sammy owns  RatPack Travel  (a discounted booking platform for Australia and New Zealand Travels). They can help you…

– find the best prices and options for transport, trips and tours around the all the key destinations in Australia – create a personalized travel calendar with recommendations for your trip – answer any questions you may have – have an incredible time!

Click here  to send  RatPack  a WhatsApp message ( +61 490 149 348 ) and to get the ball rolling.

Don’t forget you can use my code  MOLLIE10  for  10% off  any trip or transport booking you make.

How do I meet people in Australia?

Sometimes you’re just in the right place at the right time but sometimes just have to get out of your comfort zone and simply say hello.

All of the hostels are totally geared up for solo travellers. The best way to meet people in hostels is at the organised events, in your room (choose a larger mixed dorm to meet people!), or in the common areas. If there’s a BBQ or a beer pong tournament, join in, and I am sure you’ll not only have a great time, but you’ll also meet awesome people. The best tip I can give you is to just  smile and say hello  or even compliment someone on how good their food smells if you’re in the kitchen.

It’s worth remembering that you’re all in the same boat; chances are other solo travellers are feeling just as nervous as you are. Be the one to make the first move (not in a creepy way haha).

Typically solo travellers and travellers in general coming to Australia will travel the east coast from Sydney to Cairns (or vice versa).  This is the most popular route to take.  So whether your travel dates tie in with new found friends or not, it’s not uncommon to bump into people several times along the coast! You become like one big family.

If you know your dates or locations, pop a message on the  Global Travellers Facebook group  and I have no doubt you’ll find a travel buddy to meet up with!

Worried about making friends while you’re solo travelling?  Here are all my top tips!

If you’ve never stayed in a hostel before,  click here for my hostel top tips and hostel packing essentials!

Should I go on group tours and experiences when I solo travel in Australia?

Absolutely! Like I said before… group tours definitely have their place in Australia.

For example when it comes to the likes of the  Whitsundays  or  Fraser Island  – group tours are second to none. 3 days with a group of backpackers in  amazing locations, full of fun and incredible experiences  is definitely going to bond you. You might even find you’ll be travelling in the same direction as others following the trip and  you’ll have a new travel buddy ! 

Some of my favourite memories and bonds have been on these group tours in Australia. I’d definitely say get a Whitsundays group tour and Fraser Island group tour on your Australia bucket list.

Booking the Whitsundays:

The  Whitsundays sailing  tours leave from Airlie Beach and, depending on which boat you’ll choose, you’ll find yourself with a group of travellers from all over the world in a similar age range. The day times will be full of sailing, exploring beaches, snorkelling and the evenings are full of fun and drinks under the stars. You’ll be sharing large cabins with other backpackers on the tour as well as spending every day together, you’ll have  instant friends  and… people to help you get THE perfect shot!

See my guide to booking the best Whitsundays boat for you  here.

Don’t forget you can use my code MOLLIE10 for  10% off  any trip or transport booking you make with  RatPack Travel .

Booking Fraser Island:

Oh, Fraser Island.  If you go on one of the 4WD Tag Along tours, you’ll be in convoy of 4 jeeps with 7 people in each 4WDs. Road trip goals. Have an epic road trip playlist ready that includes some classic singalongs! Over the 3 days, you’ll be driving on beach highways, swimming in freshwater lakes and camping under the stars .  Just like the Whitsundays, you’ll share accommodation, transport and spend every day with the group. It’s the perfect way to meet other backpackers who also love to explore. 

See my guide to booking the best Fraser Island trip for you here.

See my solo travel vs. booking onto group tours blog post here if you still can’t decide which route to take.

Is solo travel in Australia safe?

I’ve always felt very safe in Australia when I’ve been travelling. The people here are kind and the cities are safe. Obviously, just like anywhere you travel, always have your wits about you and don’t put yourself in any situations that you wouldn’t at home. As a rule of thumb, I keep in touch with my family when I’m travelling and make sure I have data and battery on my phone (a power bank is really useful to travel with!)

Check out  my top tips for solo travel as a female in this blog post.

See my top tips for staying safe when travelling solo  here.

How do I get around Australia?

I travelled by bus the first time I travelled around Australia. It was so easy and convenient, and every bus was full of backpackers sharing stories and tips. I got the  Greyhound Hop on Hop off  bus pass which basically allowed me to travel from Sydney to Cairns on any Greyhound bus and stopped off at all the destinations I wanted to visit, it’s  definitely a way of travelling I’d recommend for a solo traveller .

Another thing to remember is that domestic flights in Australia are super cheap, so if you are on a short timeframe check out  Skyscanner  or  Jetstar  for flights.

If you prefer a bit of freedom, why not book a campervan through RatPack and road trip it!? I hired one from Sammy at RatPack when I did a  5-day Great Ocean Road road trip.

• See my guide to planning your transport in Australia here.
• Check out my guide to Greyhound buses in Australia here.
• If you want to find out more about hiring a camper in Australia, click here.

If you opt for the Greyhound bus pass, instead of booking direct,  click here  and use the code  MOLLIE10  for 10% off the direct rate with RatPack Travel. You can also use the discount for campers!

How much of my trip to Australia should I plan?

As a solo traveller, I always like to have a rough idea of where I’m going and what I’m doing. For Australia the choice is yours however I’d say it’s  pretty essential to pre-plan your trip if you are going in the peak season (November – February).  The popular trips trips get booked up around 3-4 weeks in advance during peak time. With everything else you can be super flexible with and keep it spontaneous.

What happens if things go wrong?

Whether you are travelling solo or with friends, there is always scope for plans to change or things to go ‘wrong’. The first thing to do is to not panic; there’s always a solution! It’s pretty normal when travelling to be faced with a few hurdles, be it weather affecting your plans, suddenly feeling lonely or needing to go and see a doctor.  See my advice for feeling homesick when travelling here.

Medically, if you need to see a doctor urgently, the emergency number is  000.  Save it to your phone! Find hospitals near you  here . If you need to see a GP for something less urgent, most are open Monday-Friday 9-5, but you’ll need to book an appointment (it’ll cost 50-70 AUD). Make sure you get  travel insurance  – medical bills in Australia add up  really  quickly!

If you ever feel lonely,  don’t forget  that your family and friends are a quick WhatsApp or FaceTime away. The best way to overcome loneliness is to put yourself out there and socialise at the hostel events or common areas or join a tour with other backpackers. Don’t be scared though; feeling nervous before travelling is normal. Getting out of your comfort zone is one of the best things you can do.  Get the flight booked and let the adventure begin…

The weather can’t be controlled, but try and check the forecast regularly before you make concrete plans, and if the weather calls off an activity you really wanted to do, embrace the storm and do that activity another day!

Top tip :  RatPack Travel  are the only agent that offers 100% full refund on any cancelled trips due to weather. RatPack knows that travelling sometimes isn’t perfect so if a big old storm rolls in and cancels your trip, you can expect all your money back.

CLICK HERE TO WHATSAPP RATPACK TRAVEL NOW (+61 490 149 348)

Looking for more top tips for solo travel in Australia?

Check out my video below, or my complete guide to  budgeting for backpacking through Australia here !

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

Have you solo travelled in Australia?

What are your top tips? I’d love to know about your experience!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

Pin and save this blog post for later…

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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Solo Travel in Australia: The Best Tips, Tricks and Trips

Australia is full of amazing experiences for solo travellers and has long been a favourite destination for backpackers, students taking gap years and first-time solo travellers. From big cities to the great outdoors, you can find the perfect way to plan your solo travel in Australia with our comprehensive guide.

Is Australia safe for solo travellers

Australia is a very safe country for solo travellers, including female solo travellers and those backpacking Australia alone. The country has robust and easy-to-navigate tourism and transport infrastructures with plenty of excellent destinations for both experienced and beginner solo travellers. Of course, you should always practise due diligence when it comes to keeping your belongings safe and weighing the risks of any activities (and remember, the emergency number in Australia is 000). One risk to bear in mind if you’re travelling in summer is bushfires, which can occur during heat waves. So make sure you keep an eye on local warnings and follow any advice about when to evacuate an area.

Tips for solo travelling in Australia

Australian solo travel is super easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your trip runs as smoothly as possible.

What to bring

The exact guidelines for what you should bring will change depending on where and when you’re going, but there are a few standard things to keep in mind that are particularly good to have. Solid walking shoes are crucial no matter what time of year you’re travelling, and if you’re buying a pair specifically for your trip, make sure you spend some time breaking them in before you leave to help avoid blisters.

Swimwear is crucial for summer travel, and you should remember that the southern beaches are often still a bit chilly, even during summer when the sun isn’t shining bright, so if you can fit a wetsuit, you might appreciate it. Sunscreen and mosquito repellent are two summer essentials that you can easily find at supermarkets and chemists in Australia. However, it’s helpful to have one of each on hand before you go; that way, you only need to worry about stocking up while you’re there.

While much of the southeastern parts of the country roughly follow traditional seasons, elsewhere in the northern parts of Australia, there are two main seasons: wet and dry. The wet season lasts between roughly December and March and the dry season lasts between roughly May and October. You’ll most likely prefer visiting the southern parts of the country between October and March (with the hottest temperatures usually occurring in February and March). If you want to travel around the whole country, then October is a great month to choose as it overlaps with spring in the south of the country and the dry season in the north.

Booking in advance

Booking accommodation and any activities you’ve got your heart set on in advance can help you save money and ensure your trip runs smoothly. It’s a good idea to build at least a loose itinerary about which cities you want to visit and when, so that you can start to get a sense of what sort of budget you’ll need, even if you don’t book right away.

But, of course, Australia is a country full of surprises, and if you’re travelling on your own, there’s a good chance you don’t want to be too tied down to one plan or itinerary. So, if spontaneity is important to you, try to build flexibility into your schedule by booking accommodation with flexible cancellation policies and not planning your days so much that you don’t have room to make changes or add things.

Get to know the public transport

Australia has a robust public transportation system, particularly in its major cities, which is super useful for solo travellers who want to get around without taxis or rideshare apps. Many capital cities have smartcard ticket systems for trains, buses and trams and sometimes these are the only way to pay, so make sure you know where to get one when you arrive (for example, you can buy Sydney’s Opal Cards as soon as you arrive at the airport). Greyhound buses are a great way to move around the country, to major cities and more rural areas, particularly along the east coast. You can get a Greyhound Hop On Hop Off Pass that gives you flexibility.

Consider group activities

Solo travel is an amazing experience where you get to enjoy your adventure on your terms, but you might also be looking to socialise and get to know some fellow travellers. That’s when Australian tours for singles can be a great idea. In major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, you can often find free group tours run by local volunteers. You can also consider group activities like classes or workshops, such as surfing classes in Sydney or scuba diving tours in the Great Barrier Reef.

Where to go and what to do

Australia is jam-packed with fantastic, tourist-friendly locations that are amazing to explore as a solo traveller. We’ve listed just a few below, but it’s by no means an exhaustive list. Check out our guide to The Best Places to Visit in Australia to get even more inspiration for where to go and what to do.

Get to know Sydney

Sydney is one of Australia’s most popular cities, with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Consider heading to Bondi Beach, one of the world’s best surfing locations where you can ride the waves or relax on the beach (never surfed before? Bondi has plenty of surf schools where total beginners can learn the basics). Sydney also has a number of beautiful green spaces, like the Royal Botanic Garden and Lane Cove National Park. Foodies will love Sydney for its wide range of great eateries, boasting both authentic and innovative offerings from all around the world.

Explore Booderee National Park

Booderee is a beautiful national park on the Pacific Ocean, where lush forests meet soft sand beaches and clear blue water. Discover unique native wildlife and get stunning views from the dramatic cliffs that line the shores before spending the night at one of the park’s camping grounds. There are multiple beach options, including Murray’s and Whiting, some of which you can reach via scenic hikes. In addition, you should visit Booderee Botanic Gardens, the only Aboriginal-owned botanic garden in Australia.

Experience the best of Melbourne

Melbourne and its surrounding areas are a great way to begin solo travel in Australia, with delicious food, excellent coffee and plenty of fun experiences. You’ll find cosy laneway cafes, incredible street art and unique boutiques in the city. Melbourne is home to some excellent galleries and museums, including the National Gallery of Victoria, the Melbourne Museum and Scienceworks. St Kilda and Brighton are where you can find great beachside experiences and the Brighton Bathing Boxes are an adorable, picture-perfect sight.

Discover the Great Outdoors in and around Cairns

Cairns is one of Australia’s best locations for solo travellers who love to get outdoors and do lots of fun activities. Cairns makes an excellent base for two of Australia’s most incredible natural wonders: the Daintree Forest and the Great Barrier Reef. Take a river cruise through the Daintree and a diving tour of the Great Barrier Reef to see the region’s wildlife up close, including rare birds, goannas, manta rays and turtles. The Kuku Yalanji people have inhabited the Daintree forest region for at least 50,000 years, and you can get to know the area with a local Kuku Yalanji guide.

Swim with Dolphins and Seals at Baird Bay, South Australia

Here’s an utterly unforgettable experience you can have while travelling Australia alone: swimming with dolphins and sea lions. At Baird Bay on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, you can get to know these gorgeous, totally wild sea creatures in their natural habitat. You can choose between non-swimming tours, where you stay on board (and mostly dry), and swimming tours, where you don a wetsuit and snorkelling gear to get up close and personal with the sea lions and dolphins. It’s a combined tour, so you don’t have to choose which animals to meet, and tours run from September to May. Make sure you book in advance, especially between December and February.

Where to stay in Australia

You’ll have plenty of options for places to stay when you’re travelling around Australia, with options to suit a range of budgets. We’ve listed some of the best hotels and hostels below but don’t forget that many areas have excellent camping grounds where you can sleep under the stars.

Hostels in Australia

Hostels are an excellent option for solo travellers as they provide both budget accommodation and a hub where you can meet up with fellow travellers (who are often likely to be solo travellers too). ‘Base’ is one of the most common hostel chains in the country, and their St Kilda location in Melbourne is particularly excellent; it’s close to the beach with a bar and barbecue. ‘Wake Up!’ in Sydney and ‘Gilligan’s Backpacker and Hostel Resort’ in Cairns are two excellent, slightly more upscale options that offer both dorm beds and private rooms. If you’re staying in any remotely popular tourist location in Australia, you’re sure to find a comfortable hostel where you can lay your head at night.

Hotels in Australia

If you have a bit more room in your budget for accommodation, you can find great hotels in any of Australia’s major cities with a range of prices on offer. For example, in Melbourne, the PARKROYAL is a high-quality option close to Melbourne Airport, and the Quincy Hotel provides comfortable luxury in the CBD. In Sydney, the Shangri-La is one of the best luxury hotels in Australia, while the Great Southern is an excellent, more budget-friendly option. You can find Great Southern hotels all throughout Australia.

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Forts Walk, Magnetic Island, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Australia’s best solo travel destinations

Nothing evokes the feeling of pure freedom more than travelling alone. From lively city scenes to prehistoric outback landscapes, Australia offers unique destinations perfectly suited to the solo traveller.

By Amy Fraser

Creature Yoga, Byron Bay, New South Wales © Creature Yoga/Drishti Studio Photography

Great for: Wellness activities and laid-back bars

Australia’s east coast is a mecca for backpacking adventures, and Byron Bay is undoubtedly a long-time favourite along this lauded route. What once was a sleepy coastal town transformed into a hippie heaven of surfing and wellness in the 60s. The latter has become the fabric of Byron Bay, but these days, you can expect a patchwork of trendy restaurants, bars and relaxed hostels peppered around town too. Spend your days experiencing Byron Bay’s laid-back vibe: chasing waves, stretching out your worries in a yoga class or watching the world wake up from Australia’s most easterly point. Come evening, say cheers with new friends at The Surf House’s rooftop bar.

Magnetic Island

Alma Bay, Magnetic Island, Townsville, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Great for: Spotting koalas and budget-friendly island escapes

You don’t need to travel far to experience the splendours of a tropical island. Magnetic Island , or ‘Maggie’ as affectionately called by locals and travellers alike, is coated in lush bushland that meets white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Take the easy 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville and check into Nomads – one of Australia’s most breathtaking hostels – where a line of teepee-style wooden rooms and swaying palm trees overlook the ocean. Maggie’s list of adventures is endless. Hire an open-roof car to explore some of the 23 dazzling beaches that envelop the island, immerse yourself in the world’s largest koala population along the Forts Walk to see our furry friends among the trees, and follow a colourful snorkel trail to gaze over vibrant corals and a 1900s shipwreck.

Good Heavens roof top bar, Melbourne, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Great for: A trendy food and drink scene

Melbourne has been dubbed one of the most liveable cities in the world – and it’s a must-visit too. This eclectic city serves up silky coffees (often claimed as Australia’s best), eccentric exhibitions and show-stopper plates of food. Capture the bustling atmosphere and artistic details of its cobbled laneways , mingle with the locals at a live sports event and watch the sunset over the city skyline from a rooftop bar . Whether you want to blend into the city or make new-found friends, Melbourne’s menu of solo-friendly activities is a recipe for a great time.

Skypark Cairns by AJ Hackett, Cairns, Queensland © Skypark Cairns by AJ Hackett

Great for: Exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest

Unmissable experience

Join Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel  to meet Indigenous sea rangers and learn about their cultural practices and creation stories connected to the Great Barrier Reef.

Tropical adventures abound in the friendly town of Cairns , where two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites meet. Positioned between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest , and with plenty of uncrowded palm-fringed beaches in between, the natural wonders of North Tropical Queensland are at your fingertips here. Join a cruise to snorkel around the colourful outer reefs, or face your fears with a bungy jump. The ancient culture of the Daintree Rainforest is just a one-hour drive away, easily accessed solo or on a group tour.

Fraser Dingo 4WD Hire, K'gari, Queensland © Fraser Dingo 4WD Hire

Great for: 4WD adventures and gorgeous lagoons

Coated in sand dunes, rainforests and natural blue lakes, K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) exudes the free spirit nature of solo travel. Despite the small slither of ocean that separates it from the mainland, you’ll feel a world away from life’s realities on this remarkable landscape, crowned the world’s largest sand island. The best way to experience K’gari as a solo traveller is on a group tag-along tour . Following your guide, take the wheel of a 4WD to cruise along the mighty 75 Mile Beach, drive through the towering forest and swim in crystal-clear lagoons. At night, relax in private beach house accommodation.

Mount Wellington, Hobart, Tasmania © Daniel Tran

Great for: Local produce and culture

Known as one of the friendliest cities in Australia, a solo trip to Hobart is always a good idea. The charismatic city centre is small enough to explore solo and big enough to excite. Wander around the traditional Salamanca markets to taste the region’s famed produce, expect the unexpected at MONA (the Museum of Old and New Art) and enjoy a beer at Cascades Brewery, Australia’s oldest operating craft brewery. The city’s surroundings are just as alluring. Hike to the summit of Mount Wellington for sunrise or take a day trip to the nearby Bruny Island , where gourmet delights in the form of cheese, beer and chocolate meet spectacular walks and wildlife.

Ways to make friends while travelling

Fremantle and Rottnest Island

Little Geordie Bay, Rottnest Island, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

Great for: Making (furry) friends

It’s not every day you can wake up in a World Heritage-listed 1800s building and later on, come face-to-face with a tiny smiling marsupial on an island described as paradise. The port city of Fremantle has long been a popular destination for solo travellers. Stay at the unique YHA Fremantle Prison hostel to make life-long friends (and memories) and embrace the city’s extensive culture at fascinating museums, bustling food markets and breweries famed for their pioneering craft beers. From Fremantle, take the easy 30-minute ferry ride to Rottnest Island , an island primed for solo exploration. Explore its gorgeous bays and beaches on two wheels and be sure to capture your day with an adorable quokka selfie .

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain Canyons, Cradle Mountain, Tasmania © Off the Path

Great for: Natural beauty and wildlife

Slow travel is synonymous with Cradle Mountain St Clair National Park , where Tasmania’s raw wilderness evokes a deep connection to nature and wildlife in the heart of the ancient World Heritage-listed Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Join a night tour at the conversation centre, Devils@Cradle, to meet the typically shy Tasmanian Devil , or venture into the wild after dark to spot native Tassie animals on a guided tour. If you’ve got an appetite for thrills, try abseiling down dramatic waterfalls on a canyoning adventure. And for those who seek the true solidarity of nature, join a day tour from Launceston to hit Cradle Mountain’s breathtaking collection of hikes, spanning dramatic summits, alpine terrain and ancient rainforests.

Ulu r u, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Jackson Groves

Great for: Connecting to the world’s oldest living culture

Nothing says adventure like visiting the mighty r u">Ulu r u , the world’s largest sandstone monolith towering 348m (1,142ft) high from the red earth of Australia’s arid outback. Over 500 million years old, Ulu r u’s spirit is just as present in the Indigenous A n angu people and their Dreamtime stories as it is in the red-hued rock itself. Immerse yourself in the region on a multi-day tour (goodbye, transportation worries) which blends the highlights of Ulu r u and its neighbouring monolith, Kata Tju t a. Expect days packed with guided cultural hikes through otherworldly landscapes, Indigenous bush tucker-inspired dinners and a spell-binding celestial sky.

Untamed Escapes, Flinders Ranges, South Australia © Untamed Escapes

Great for: South Australia’s bucket list experiences

Adelaide’s easily-accessible city centre and beaches make it a popular locale for solo travellers. There’s plenty to do in and around the city – think wine tasting at world-class vineyards, beach hopping along an endless coastline and museum hopping around celebrated art galleries. But its appeal also lies in its proximity to South Australia’s untamed ancient outback and seafood-famed coastal regions. Hit the open road with a group of like-minded travellers on a guided trip to access off-grid outback hikes, cultural insights and an epic itinerary crafted with some of the state’s most exhilarating experiences. On a six-day Swag Camping Eco Tour , a smorgasbord of bucket list activities awaits, from traversing the dramatic gorges of the 540-million-year-old Flinders Ranges by foot to swimming with playful sea lions, spotting koalas in the wild and shucking fresh oysters on the Eyre Peninsula .

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10 helpful tips for travelling solo in Australia

Amanda Woods

Travel Journalist

16 February 2023

Travelling solo is an art that takes a bit of fine-tuning, but once you get it right, you’ll never want to stop.

Whether you’re excited or terrified by the prospect of solo travel in Australia, here are some top tips to help get you on your way.  

1. Embrace the unknown

When you’re going somewhere you’ve never been before it’s comforting to have a familiar face along for the ride. But rather than worrying about going it alone, see it as a chance find out just what you’re capable of when you’re the only one in the driver’s seat.

You’ll be surprised what you can do when you travel solo. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Plan ahead but don’t panic if those plans don’t go as smoothly as you’d hoped. If the last few years have taught us anything it’s that we can’t control everything in life and flexibility is key. Stay open to where any twists and turns may take you. It may not be where you set out to go, but you could come home with even better memories and stories.   

Stay open to whatever opportunities come your way. (Image: Tourism Australia)

2. Talk to strangers

Some people can happily talk to anyone, anywhere. For others conversations are things best saved for people they already know and love. Depending on the day I could be in either of these camps and can happily spend days talking to no one, or find myself chatting to strangers about anything under the sun.  

When you’re travelling solo there’s a lot to be said for talking to strangers. If they’re local they can tell you more about the place you’re visiting. If they’re a fellow traveller you can swap tales and tips.

To stay on the safe side,  don’t tell people you’ve just met that you’re travelling alone. A phantom partner who’s either back in the hotel room or about to meet you for dinner can help create a safety buffer until you’re confident you’re in the right kind of company.   

If you’re a bit rusty on the striking-up conversations with strangers side of things try asking them questions about their favourite things to do, see and eat around town. If they like to chat you could be there for hours. And if they don’t then thank them for their short reply and let them get back to their day.    

You’ll learn a lot by speaking to strangers. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Enjoy dining alone

Solomangarephobia is a fear of eating alone in public and while I’ve never known that fear I know what it’s like to feel other people looking at me when I’m dining alone, especially when I treat myself to a solo meal in a good restaurant .   

If you’re worried about eating by yourself a counter seat or a seat at the bar can be a great option. I’ve had some very entertaining conversations with chefs, bar staff and fellow single diners at a counter seat. 

Just because you’re on your own, doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to a gourmet meal. (Image: Tourism Australia)

As easy as it is to disappear into your phone, force yourself to put your devices away and  take in where you are. Really taste that food that you’ve never eaten before. Even if it’s an old favourite dish, you’ve never had it here so how does it compare?   

If you’d rather have some kind of distraction bring a book or magazine, or take the time to write in a travel journal or catch up on postcards rather than scrolling social media.   

Try to embrace your solo dining experience rather than escaping into your phone. (Image: Tourism Australia)

4. Be patient

With yourself and with others. When you step out of your comfort zone you’re bound to have some frustrating moments. Whether it’s failing to immediately grasp a new public transport system or getting lost after taking a wrong turn, take a breath and reboot. Allow extra time for figuring some things out slowly and be kind to yourself when you get things wrong.

Extend the same courtesies to everyone you meet on your travels. Some things may not be done as quickly as you’re used to back home, but with so many short-staffed businesses around Australia, the people behind the counters are the ones who turned up and are doing their best.

Step out of your comfort zone. (Image: Tourism Australia)

5. Pack your hiking boots

Really get to know a special corner of Australia on two feet. You can either be inspired by Cheryl Strayed’s Wild experience and go completely solo, or if you’re like me and want to walk the walk but not pitch your own tent you can join a guided hike. 

The spectacular mountain view on top is worth the hike. (Image: Spicers Scenic Rim)

As a solo traveller on  Spicer’s Scenic Rim Trail ,  I was able to hike 88km up and along Queensland ’s Great Dividing Range with nothing more than a day pack. As well as having the security and safety of a guide I loved the chance to get to know fellow hikers both on the trail and over drinks and dinners every night.

Safely traverse the Spicers Scenic Rim trail with a hiking guide. (Image: Spicers Scenic Rim)

There are short and long walks to find around Australia including Tasmania ’s Bay of Fires Lodge Walk, South Australia ’s Arkaba Walk and the Northern Territory ’s Larapinta Trek , and some companies offer no single supplement deals so you don’t have to pay more to go solo.   

The Arkaba Walk is great for solo travellers. (Image: Wild Bush Luxury / Great Walks of Australia)

6. Join a group

If your friends and family aren’t interested in joining you on your dream trip but you’d rather not go it alone, a group holiday could be the answer. When I joined an  Inspiring Journeys  tour I went from an Indigenous tour of the Daintree and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef to seeing Field of Light at Uluru at hiking Kings Canyon at sunrise.

Kings Canyon is a true spectacle you don’t want to miss. (Image: Inspiring Journeys)

As well as handing over all of the logistics to the experts, you’ll get the chance to share the trip with other travellers. Companies will often know the best things to do in any location and have tickets to events or experiences that can sell out in advance.

Companies will know the best things to do in any location. (Image: Tourism Australia)

With tours tailored to different kinds of travelling styles as well as destinations, you may even meet some like-minded travel friends for future adventures. 

Tours are tailored to different kinds of travelling styles. (Image: Walkabout Cultural Adventures)

7. Set sail

Another way to go it alone without really going it alone. I’ve enjoyed cabins for one on boats and ships that have had anywhere from 10 to 4,000 passengers. Sailing solo gives you a chance to be as social or as quiet as you like and at meals there’s almost always a table where you can join other people or you can simply request to dine alone.   

Cruising is a good way to meet other people while travelling. (Image: Tourism Australia)

As with group tours you don’t have to worry about orchestrating any plans, and on a ship you don’t have to keep packing and unpacking your bags either. On a tour around Tasmania’s wild coast with  Coral Expeditions I was able to see wilderness spots I couldn’t have reached by car and after sharing travel tales over meals I could retire to my cabin alone.

Australia’s powdery white beaches have sparkling emerald blue waters. (Image: Coral Expeditions)

Coral Expeditions are among the cruise companies that offer to match single guests with people of the same gender to avoid single supplements, and also have a Standby Singles offer where you could get a cabin to yourself with no single supplement depending on availability.   

Look around for a cruise line that doesn’t charge more for singles. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Some cruise lines including  Cunard  and  Celebrity Cruises  also have solo staterooms built for one but as single cabins and fares are limited it’s best to book well ahead.   

Some cruise lines have solo staterooms. (Image: Tourism Australia)

8. Be beach smart

Australian beaches are pretty sweet places to get away from it all and while most people can be trusted unfortunately there are times when you shouldn’t just put your valuables in your shoes when you go for a dip. Well, that’s unless they’re a pair of reef or waterproof shoes with pockets. Then you’re good to go.

Beaching solo is great fun, just make sure you do it safely. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Some beaches have lockers but when they don’t you’re best off leaving valuables either in the hotel safe or hidden in the car if you’re between rooms on a road trip . A waterproof phone pouch can fit your phone, room card and a little cash when you go for a swim, or you can also buy a small portable safe to attach to a table or umbrella.   

If you decide to bury your things in the sand make sure you’re subtle about it and use a zip-lock bag. And if there’s a lifeguard on duty get a spot in front of them as most thieves will avoid areas where they think someone is watching.  

Hear the soft sounds of the waves caressing the shore.

9. Stay safe

Even though Australia is a pretty safe country to travel around it’s still a good idea to do some simple things to help make your solo trip a safe one.   

Pop a rubber doorstop in your bag for those times when your hotel room doesn’t have a deadbolt or security latch. They’re small and light and can stop an intruder in their tracks.   

I like to tell empty hotel rooms that I’ll see them soon and then say I’m back when I open the door so that it looks like I’m not alone. Asking for two keys at check-in if there’s anyone else around is also a good idea.  

Resist sharing where you are on social media until you’ve checked out. I once shared a drink with two influencers who discovered to their horror that the champagne that was sent to their room wasn’t from hotel management but from a man who liked their latest Instagram story a bit too much.  

And while smart international readers will already have this covered a tip for our fellow Australians. While you may only think about travel insurance when you’re heading overseas it can come in very handy in your own country too. Domestic travel insurance policies can kick in when you’re anywhere between 50 and 250km from home and depending on the policy could cover you for delays and cancellations and lost or damaged belongings.   

Make sure you feel comfy and secure in your hotel room.

10. Have fun

And finally, in a world where so many of our decisions involve friends, family and work enjoy every moment of a trip that’s all about you.   

Solo travel allows you to choose everything you do from the places you go and the things you see to what time you want to have breakfast in the morning and go to bed at night. And if you decide at the last minute to turn that 7 am breakfast into an 11 am brunch, that’s okay too.  

Solo travel allows you to go at your own pace. (Image: Tourism Australia)

It’s self-indulgent in the best of possible ways, and as well as discovering new things in new places, you may find that you learn a lot about yourself on the way too. 

Be self-indulgent, you deserve it. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Amanda Woods is a travel writer based in New England high country in NSW. She’s travelled from Antarctica to the Arctic and loves to inspire people to get out and explore this big beautiful world of ours. She has a passion for regenerative, sustainable and mindful travel and has some big Australian travel dreams for the future.

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Comments (2)

You only have one life embrace your wishes and travel enjoy life unexpected vista and people

Thank you for the great tips, I will definitely try them.

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Solo Travel in Australia

A complete guide to solo travel in australia.

Solo Travel in Australia is safe and fun. I know something about it. Australia is a top destination for women who love solo travel or want to start with it and enjoy down under at a slow pace. From backpacking to road-tripping to hiking, Australia is one of the safest destinations for solo female travellers of any age who love the great outdoors.

On a gap year, I took my first solo trip to Australia in 2004 . Since then, I’ve taken solo trips around Australia for more than 15 years, covering more than 100,000 kilometres by foot, on land, and by sea. If you want to travel solo to Australia , use the advice, tips, and suggestions in this Australia solo travel guide .

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Why Travel Australia
• Accommodation for Solos
• Backpacking Australia
• Best Destinations To Visit
• Australia Solo Travel Itinerary
• Plan Your Solo Trip
• Solo Road Tripping
• Australia Travel Book
• Solo Tours in Australia
• Websites and Resources

Is It Safe To Travel Alone In Australia?

If you are wondering if it is safe to travel solo to Australia, as a woman, I say yes, it’s the perfect country for solos. Thanks to the low crime rate and the stable economy, Australia is the first-choice destination for venturing into solo escapes.

You get out of your comfort zone and see how to get by; on the other hand, you learn many little practical things that are hard to experiment with elsewhere. Australia is a top country for developing self-awareness and growing your confidence to do things yourself.

Solo Travel Around Australia Pros and Cons

Why Australia in the first place? Australia is such a big country; you may think you don’t know what to do when travelling alone . and that isolation and vastness would make solos feel lonely. Based on my experience, I can tell you that it’s super easy to get around, meet people and feel comfortable. Here are some of the benefits:

• The natural beauty of Australia will hook up the curious traveller. Australia will amaze you if you love nature, the wilderness, and animals.
• Australians’ friendliness will make it easy for you to socialise, from striking up a conversation to making new friends and getting help.
• The easiness of the country. It’s easy to get around, and you will be safe and home.

Besides the many advantages, some disadvantages are worth mentioning here.

• Long distances As a single traveller, you should constantly evaluate the case, consider what you can and can’t do alone, and assess your endurance when driving long distances.
• Limitations on activities Solo travel tours in Australia and Australia are offered with a minimum of two participants, but there are plenty of other exciting things and options.
• The Cost Most people ask: how much does it cost to travel solo? Australia is expensive, and travelling alone may cost more if you are only open to classic travel options. In most hotels, you will pay for a single-room supplement. Fortunately, there are ways to travel to Australia on a budget

BONUS TIP : I recommend starting with easy and short trip itineraries and then scaling up to longer trips. Try out more challenging ways to travel around Australia by yourself. Don’t try to do too much on your first visit. Make thoughtful decisions on the destinations, and get around.

Where To Travel Solo in Australia

There are many exciting destinations for travelling solo in Australia.  I highly recommend starting any solo journey from a city or a town and making all further arrangements.

The Australian Cities

If you are new to solo travel, building your itinerary with one or two getaways from Australian cities like Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, Darwin, Hobart, etc., is good. These are the capital cities of each state in Australia and the best place to start any “solo travel in Australia” adventure.

Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney is a spectacular city that also offers a lot of things to do solo. Ideally, I would combine Sydney and Melbourne on your first Australia Solo Trip.

From Sydney, most travellers choose the most travelled path, the North East Coast.  I recommend travelling from Sydney to Melbourne. You can do it by bus or self-drive to discover more inland and coastal places. This is a great way to see Australia’s southeast coast sights .

Melbourne Victoria

Melbourne is a fantastic city if you love food, culture, and bushwalking. It’s probably the best destination with shorter driving distances and great outdoor experiences. Melbourne offers a variety of things to do alone that are hard to beat. You can also e xplore Victoria with short day trips from Melbourne within 100-300 kilometres, including the GOR and Wilsons Prom.

 Adelaide South Australia

Perth western australia,  brisbane queensland.

A Complete Guide to Where To Travel Solo in Australia

Create Your Australia Solo Itinerary

Here are the best tips for creating the perfect Solo Itinerary Trip around Australia.

East Coast from Sydney to Cairns

If you love to spend time on the East Coast of Australia , you have 4.000 km of coast to stop along your way. The easiest way to travel is to get a bus pass from Greyhound and go on a hop-on-hop-off ride, but fly and driving is the best way to go if you feel more adventurous.

Plan in 3-5 stop-over cities and main towns where to start your further explorations. Be prepared for crowds. This is, in fact, the busiest coastal stretch in Australia, where most backpackers gather.

Let’s take a deeper look at each segment and itinerary ideas for your solo getaways:

• Queensland’s coastline stretches from Brisbane to Cairns to Cape York, home to many Northern Australian attractions. It is also the most visited state by locals and international travellers alike; for women who love to travel solo, probably the best destination among all places in Australia. If you don’t fancy travelling to isolated areas and enjoying more of the vibe, Queensland is the place.
• Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef . I recommend spending some time in Cairns, hiring a car, and touring the region of North Tropical Queensland. It’s easy to get around and offers excellent escapes in the national parks and the Atherton Tablelands .
• Snorkelling and diving are the main activities you can try on the Great Barrier Reef , but you can try plenty of fun water sports and outdoor activities
• Gold Coast , from Coolangatta to Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, is not only for families with kids and a great place for single women. There are excellent spots for beach and walking holidays.
• Fraser Island is also great but for more adventurous experiences like dunes and 4WD adventures. I’d recommend going on a tour when visiting Fraser Island, as 4WD on the island is challenging.

Bonus Tip : If you only have one week or ten days, I’d pick these solo destinations: Cairns, Cape Tribulation, Cooktown and the far north destinations in Queensland, including the Atherton Tablelands, Townsville, and Magnetic Island.

Bonus Tip : If you have 3-4 weeks, I will try to focus on 3-4 destinations as well, including the Gold Coast with Byron Bay, the Sunshine Coast with Noosa, Fraser Island on a 2-day guided Tour and Cairns with North Tropical Queensland.

Explore the Outback by yourself or in a group

• You don’t have to venture out on challenging road trips across the country to see some of Australia’s Outback . You can go from Sydney to Broken Hill by train to uncover offbeat towns.
• All the major Outback attractions are also doable on easy road trips like Uluru and Kings Canyon.  You can fly from Sydney or Melbourne to Alice Springs and hire a car to visit Uluru.
• Broome is another great place for female solo travellers in North Western Australia .  Starting from Perth and heading up the West Coast. There is a wealth of fun things to do in Broome, including walking, biking, swimming, beach driving, wellness activities, shopping, and 4WD beach driving.
• The Top End Region is full of fantastic national parks, such as the Kakadu National Park . If you are adventurous, you can keep going on a round-trip and traverse the Kimberley to see more Outback towns. If you don’t fancy a demanding 4WD,  join a Kakadu tour in Darwin.
• Darwin is the northernmost Australian City, and because of its isolation, it’s not likely to be on everyone’s itinerary, especially if you are alone. But a trip up to the Top End of Australia is worth it.

Bonus Tip 1 : I suggest flying from Sydney or Melbourne or Adelaide, and if you want to experience something unique, take a train ride on board the Ghan (I loved that train ride). If you are on a budget, travelling by bus from Kununurra to Darwin is also viable.

Bonus Tip 2. : If you are on long-term travel, I’d include the Red Centre that you can visit by flying to Alice Springs can add a train ride north to Darwin and take the bus to Kununurra in the East Kimberley.

Hiking Solo in Tasmania

Tasmania feels very different from the rest of the country, and it’s a paradise for hiking and camping. I loved exploring Tasmania Solo on my backpacking trip. I joined a 5-day guided tour and recently went on a road trip and hiking the Three Capes Track.

Tip: The best way to explore Tasmania is to go on a  Solo Road trip to Tasmania’s East Coast.

Backpacking Solo in Australia

There aren’t many warnings that come to mind when I think of Australia as a backpacker and travelling solo. Australia and New Zealand are top destinations for backpackers, and thousands travel alone, mainly on a hop-on-hop-off bus pass.

Backpacking is the way to go if you want to travel to Australia on a budget .

In Australia, once you are in remote areas, you are cut off from civilisation and often, there is no internet or phone coverage. I have put together a guide for women who want to travel on a budget and Australia to get started with their solo backpacking adventure.

Check out our Guide to Backpacking in Australia

Solo Road Trips in Australia

I cannot stop emphasizing that Australia is all about Road Tripping. But I’m also aware that it’s easier to use public transportation or join a tour rather than hire a car and hit the road completely alone when you are on your own. I have gone on +10 solo road trips around Australia and loved them.

Uluru (Ayers Rock) from Alice Springs

Albany, wa, from perth.

You can plan it as a long weekend getaway or an extended itinerary when including Margaret River. It’s easy to drive, and there are many stop-overs along your way. I have done one of the loveliest drives in Western Australia. This is the place if you love beautiful beaches, forests, hiking, national parks, and excellent food. Here is our guide about what to see and do in Albany, WA .

Cairns to Cape Tribulation and Atherton Tableland

Below, you can read more about all the road trips of Australia I recommend to solos.

Check out all 14 Best Solo Road Trips in Australia

How To Solo Travel In Australia

If you plan a trip to Australia , the most important thing when creating your Australia Itinerary is to make sure you choose transportation you feel comfortable with but at the same time fits well with your time frame and schedule.

Here below my best tips for travelling alone around Australia :

Flying within Australia

Planning a trip to Australia implies a few internal flights . If you plan to hit up more destinations across the country, you may have to put up with 4-5 flights. Once you get to your destination, the best way to explore places is by renting a car, going on a tour or gon on a hop-on-off by bus.

Bus Experiences For Solos in Australia

Train journeys.

Travelling by train in Australia isn’t expected. Although the train network is perfect within cities and suburban areas, there are also long-distance rail journeys that are more of a holiday than just a transportation mode. It is expensive to travel on these trains, though.

Driving Alone Around Australia

Here are my tips for solo women who want to go on road trips: driving solo in Australia :

Accommodation For Solo Women Travelling in Australia

Australia is a friendly destination offering many options for staying overnight and for women who travel alone. There are suitable types of accommodation in cities and suburban regions. I recommend a list of accommodation options for women travelling alone around Australia.

Hostels and Backpackers

I would start by staying in Australian hostels , regardless of your budget and whether you intend to go backpacking. You can choose from a private room with a shared bathroom (some hostels offer en-suite bathrooms), female dorms (4-8 beds) to twin rooms if you want to share with another female.  I recommend using YHA in Australia .

Find the best Hostel Deals in Australia

Airbnb in Australia

Airbnb in Australia is very popular and not only among solos. Through Airbnb, you can find unique places in beautiful houses with a special ambience that you will not get in any hotels. Furthermore, in remote regions, there are only fewer types of accommodation available.

If you haven’t tried it out yet, here is a complete guide on using Airbnb .

Camping Solo in Australia

Camping is not something for everyone, but if you love adventure and want to discover more of the lesser-known sites, you will enjoy camping in Australia. Having tried it myself, I know what it’s like camping in the middle of nowhere and soaking in a place’s pure isolation and peacefulness. Camping isn’t always as relaxing as you may imagine, though. I found it quite demanding, and you must be well prepared.

Check out my Australia Solo Camping Tips

Housesitting in Australia

Housesitting is suitable for those wanting to travel long-term. I will first consider a house sit in Australia if you plan a vacation from 6 weeks to 3 or more months.

Housesitting is the best way to reduce accommodation costs and support long-term travel. I have done that over the past five years and loved it. I wouldn’t have been able to solo travel long-term and spend between 3-6 months in Australia without these housesitting tips for Australia .

Hotels for Solos

Hotels are notoriously famous for being expensive when you travel alone. Paying for the so-called “ invisible person ” isn’t fun and can drain your budget. Hotels in Australia aren’t cheap.

I prefer a smaller family-run B&B or a small boutique hotel if you don’t fancy hostels or private accommodation. They offer a cosy ambience, a more personal approach and many facilities. It’s always worth browsing through booking.com ; sometimes, you may also find a good deal from big hotel chains.

Find the best Hotel Deals for Solos

How To Plan Female Solo Travel in Australia

If you think you can visit Australia on a 2 or 3 weeks itinerary, you will not see it all even if you have six or ten months. In 15 years of travel, I have probably seen 75% of the country. So you get a picture of how big Australia is. And planning a trip to Australia isn’t easy.

Australia Itinerary Guide Book For Solo Travellers

What if you could have a step-by-step guide to help create your Australia Itinerary?

From choosing the right places and allocating the right time to each destination to crafting your solo adventures in all segments and variations, my Australia travel guidebook will take you through all the essential steps to create the perfect solo trip. I’m the author of this guide book which has helped many solo travellers plan their adventures in Australia. This guidebook is the outcome of my solo traveller experience. If you want to purchase the book, click the link or image below.

The perfect guide book to Create your Solo Travel Itinerary around Australia

Tips for Solo Travel Itineraries of Australia

Here are my best travelling tips for women planning to travel solo to Australia:

Make a distance-proof travel plan.

Consider alternatives to flying., go road tripping, allocate the right time to each trip leg, don’t travel solo to join groups then all the time., go on tours when it makes sense, match the itinerary to the purpose of your solo trip, travel australia at the best time of year, group tours for solos.

Many women plan to travel alone but join a Tour of Australia . It’s easy to opt for a guided tour and not take the time and effort to craft your adventure and go alone. Some parts of Australia are challenging to explore solo. Then, it is better to choose designated tours that fulfil the purpose, i.e. they allow you to explore remote regions or do special activities in Australia that you wouldn’t otherwise see or do alone.

Here are crucial things that you should consider when selecting tours in Australia :

Group Tours in Australia vs Solo Travel

Be clear about the primary purpose and reason for joining a group tour. Is it the destination, the activities, or the fear of travelling alone ? In the beginning, it’s easier to go on guided tours; it takes off much work, like researching and planning. But there are reasons to refrain from joining tours.

What type of Australia Tours to choose

Cost of tours in australia.

Australia Tours are known to be expensive. But depending on the destination and the type of transportation, a tour may turn out cheaper than the entire cost of travelling solo. If you travel solo, you will have to choose guided trips that are a good alternative to exploring the places you have in mind and saving money on transportation in Australia.

Here is an article about how to Weigh up all the pros and cons of solo vs groups .

Walking Tours in Australia

Check out all Tours of Australia from City to City

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More Inspiration for Solo Travelling In Australia

On RockyTravel, you will also find hundreds of articles where you can learn about all the top places to visit, with tons of Australia Travel Planning Tips .

Click on the links below to read more about how to travel alone as a woman to Australia.

All Posts about Solo Travel in Australia

Why I love Australia

Best ways to travel alone at +50

How to start travelling alone

How to travel around Australia with your pet .

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Australia Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

Filters applied, 250+ australia tours for singles / solo travelers with 574 reviews.

• Wine tasting

The Great Ocean Road Melbourne - Adelaide 4 day 3 night Tour

très satisfaite de l'ensemble de la prestation. J'ai particulièrement apprécié le suivi, et les réponses rapides qui m'ont été données par messages privés à toutes les questions que j'ai pu poser lors de la réservation du tour. Mike un très bon guide, très attentionné avec l'ensemble des membres du groupe. Une super ambiance tout le long du trajet, avec la découvertes de lieux et paysages extraordinaires. Je recommande cette aventure

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Best of Australia

I had an amazing trip, though if I can give a few bits of criticism: some days felt quite rushed. For example in Airlie Beach, we only had 1 day, which was taken up completely by the planned activity. We had no time to see Airlie itself. Same in Byron, if you wanted to do 2 activities, there was no time left to see the town itself. Visiting the port douglas markets, we were given 2 hours but since it was very busy there, the waiting queues for different stands were too long to be able to see everything in those 2 hours. Most places we stayed we did have enough time. Linda was an amazing driver and both her and Imy knew a lot about australian history and nature. They were very friendly and helpful. The things we see on the tour are spectacular and we were lucky to have a lovely group.

6 Day Perth to Exmouth Coral Coaster (One Way)

WA's awesome nature and our wonderful tourguide/driver Linda made this tour very special. Accomodation wasn't always nice, but ok and I understand the alternative would be even more driving.

• Hiking & Trekking

Famous 5 - 5 day Tour of Tasmania

A wonderful tour in every respect. Evan was a fantastic caring guide. Highly recommended

• €65 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Brisbane to Cairns Adventure (8 Days) (14 destinations)

Learn To Dive (5 Days)

Great dive instructors.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coach / Bus

7 Day Perth to Exmouth Explorer Loop

Carlos and Bree were wonderful, helpful and informative. I can always tell a good tour by the level I have to think/plan/organize for myself- and I can say this was a true stress-free vacation because those two did all the invisible mental energy it takes to have a fruitful holiday. When planning on this holiday, I was contemplating whether to do an East coast or West coast tour (not a wrong choice either way!) and I am glad I did this one as I think it seems the tour less travelled, less “touristy” but it showed so much diversity in experiences (desert, national parks, and stunning protected reefs). The hostels were all good enough for the cost I paid. The food we prepared was delicious (wraps for lunch, and a nice cooked meal for dinner.) Breakfast was cereal and so I was relieved to bring my own protein shakes as I need something more substantial in the mornings. Cheers!

Sydney to Brisbane Adventure (7 Days) (from Byron Bay to Tweed Heads)

Premium Red Centre & Uluru

Explorer Six - 6 Day Tour of Tasmania

We had a great time and seen lots of tasmanias most wonderful places and delicious food. Tour guide and bus driving have been amazing, got lots of information. Management of accomodation and telling us where to go next and what time could be better. At some places could calculate more time for the hikes and the lookouts. Surprised the first day has been different people because you could book it as a day trip as well.

Contrasts of Australia (9 Days)

Everything was Excelent

Tastes of Southern Australia (11 Days)

Great trip with AAT Kings through Trafalgar. The tour guide, Francis, was helpful and informative. The driver, Brad, was efficient, helpful and a safe driver. The meals with great and the stops on the Tastes of Australia were wonderful.

Red Centre & Uluru Adventure

City to Surf (8 Days)

Great way to see Sydney and tick off some Australian bucket list items!

Untamed Kimberley (11 Days)

Carolyn was very knowledgeable about the area. Loved her stories particularly about our indigenous Australians for which I now have a better understanding of what they have had to endure since the arrival of people from overseas.

What people love about Australia Solo Tours

I did this 4-day tour and I really enjoyed it. Jens, the guide, as well as all participants were very nice and warmhearted. I felt like I travelled with new friends. There were only 5 people in our group. I totally recommend this tour that includes amazing spots and sceneries. We were also lucky to see many animals (koalas, kangaroos, emus, fox, etc.).

Cool group, great guide, some long drives. Would need a driver and a guide A flight from Byron Bay to avoid 2 long drives on the bus

A great tour with an excellent driver/guide, Carlos, full of information, well organized and sensitive to our needs. Lots of wonderful places to see and experience from sunrise to sunset. Long bus rides at times and a full bus so little room to stretch out. But worth traveling the distances. Highly recommend the one way tour and fly out from Exmouth

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Solo Travel in Sydney, Australia (The Ultimate Guide)

By Tina Riegelnegg. This guide to traveling alone in Sydney contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Are you interested in learning about  solo travel in Sydney, Australia ? Want to have a safe and fun trip exploring on your own?

Then you’re in the right place!

Showcasing an enticing mix of history, culture, entertainment, and natural beauty, Sydney is a great choice for solo travelers.

Along with visiting famous sites like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, a wide array of museums and galleries allow you to immerse yourself in history and culture.

Other draws to traveling solo in Sydney include scenic coastal walks, relaxing on gorgeous stretches of sand like Bondi and Coogee Beaches, and shopping and eating your way through markets like The Rocks and Paddington.

It’s also a popular destination for solo travel, so if you’re worried about being lonely, know that you’ll have many opportunities to make friends.

Personally, I’ve visited Sydney a few times, both as a solo traveler and with friends. And to be completely honest, I enjoyed my time alone in Sydney even more – especially as I didn’t need to compromise my itinerary.

On that note, let’s jump into this Sydney solo travel guide with all the things you need to know, from basic logistic questions like how to get there to the best things to do in Sydney as a solo traveler .

⏳Short on time? Here are some quick tips for traveling alone in Sydney: ☔ Safety: While Sydney is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack  travel safety essentials . One top pick is the  She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include  Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments  and  Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves . 🎉  Tours: Viator & GetYourGuide . Some top-rated excursions include: – Morning or Afternoon Half-Day Sydney City Sightseeing Tour – Sydney Street Art & Food Tour – City Bike Tours (Multiple Route Options!) 🚘 Day Trips: – Hunter Valley Wine Tour from Sydney including Lunch, Cheese, Chocolate & Distillery – Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney Including Scenic World – Sydney Whale-Watching Cruise including Breakfast or Lunch 💃 Events: Fever 🥘 Food Experiences: EatWith  (cooking classes & dining in local homes) 🥾 Get Active: Coogee Coastal Walk & Bondi Beach surfing 🏨  Accommodation: This map  can help you pinpoint top-rated and budget-friendly accommodation in the Spanish cities you’re visiting solo. It’s currently set to the Central Business District, but you can easily change it to your intended Sydney neighborhood (or “suburb” as they say in Sydney). 🏥  Travel Insurance:  SafetyWing 📞  Staying Connected:  Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Travel Sydney Solo With Confidence [Free Course]

But first, before we get into our Sydney solo travel guide, I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to learn important tips and recommended for solo travel in Sydney.

Sydney Solo Travel: Is It Worth It?

Yes, Sydney is a great place to visit as a solo traveler ! It’s an incredible city with so many things to do and so many events to attend that you won’t get bored on your own at all. 

From the world-renowned Sydney Harbour Bridge to hidden gems like the Wendy Whiteley Garden, you can explore this amazing city at your own pace without needing to compromise – which is one of the biggest benefits of solo travel .

It’s also very easy to get around. No need to rent a car, as getting around on foot and via public transportation is totally doable.

Another reason why Sydney is worth visiting alone is that it’s very safe, especially compared to other big cities. And if you do get into a situation or just need some help, locals are generally friendly towards tourists and happy to help.

In short, solo travel in Sydney can be very fun and rewarding. The city offers a rich, diverse experience that you can tailor to your own interests.

Sydney Solo Travel Logistics

Where is sydney.

Sydney is the capital of the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) on the east coast of Australia . It’s just a short drive to the coast, where you can go for a swim in the Pacific Ocean.

To the west of Sydney are the famous Blue Mountains, a popular destination for outdoor lovers and hikers. 

Best time to visit Sydney

Sydney’s peak season is in the summer months between December and February since Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere. During this time you’ll get the warmest average temperatures of up to 80°F (26°C).

That being said, this is also the busiest season. If you’d like to skip the crowds while still being able to enjoy a solo beach trip , consider visiting Sydney solo during the shoulder seasons.

In fall, from March to May, the temperatures reach an average high of 69°F to 78°F (21°C to 25°C). And in spring, from September to November, the temperatures reach an average high of 70°F to 75°F (21°C to 24°C).

The other benefit to planning your solo trip to Sydney during the shoulder season is you can typically find cheaper flights and hotel deals.

Getting to Sydney

The easiest way to reach Sydney is by plane. Sydney has a big international airport, Sydney Airport , which is connected to the city center by public transport. 

The Airport Link train runs about every 10 minutes, while the Route 420 bus runs at timed intervals. You can access both using a credit card or an Opal transport card , which can be purchased at the train station or from a WH Smith store.

This is great for those doing solo travel to Sydney, and it helps keep costs down when you don’t have anyone to split an Uber or taxi with.

Getting around Sydney as a solo traveler

I love exploring a destination on foot, as you can really feel the beat of the city; however, Sydney is quite spread out, so sometimes the distances are just too far to walk. Luckily, Sydney has a well-connected and easy-to-use public transportation system. 

There are countless trams and buses, and you don’t even need to buy a ticket beforehand. You can simply tap your bank card to the card reader located inside the bus or tram.

Is Sydney Safe For Solo Female Travelers? 

Are you scared to travel alone ? If so, feel good knowing that Sydney is very safe for solo female travelers. As a matter of fact, according to World Population Review , Sydney is one of the safest cities in the world. 

Additionally, Travel Safe-Abroad notes that your risk of being the victim of a mugging, scam, pickpocketing incident, or terrorism is low and that Sydney is particularly safe for female travelers. This helps to make it one of the best places to travel solo in Australia.

Of course, no matter where you travel, it’s still important to keep some solo travel safety tips in mind like:

• Avoid walking home alone late at night
• Stick to areas with good lighting and other people around during the night
• Watch out for pickpockets and scams in touristy areas
• Never leave your bag unattended – or better yet, opt for pickpocket-proof garments so thieves don’t even know you’re carrying cash or cards
• Don’t forget a padlock to keep your valuables safe if you stay in a hostel
• Take a guided tour if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable exploring Sydney on your own
• Know how to get help: Sydney’s emergency number is 000 or you can download the TripWhistle App , which allows you to call emergency services around the world quickly and easily

Where To Stay In Sydney When Traveling Solo 

There are many great areas (or “suburbs”) to stay in Sydney, though a few top picks include:

The Rocks is a very trendy neighborhood next to Sydney Harbour. The best Sydney hostel for solo travelers is located there, the Sydney Harbour YHA . This hostel has a selection of mixed and female-only dormitories; however, the best feature of this youth hostel in Sydney is the rooftop terrace with a view of the Sydney Opera House.

➡️ Click her e for a full list of Sydney hotels in The Rocks .

The Central Business District (CBD)

From the CBD, it’s just a short walk to most key attractions in Sydney and you’re in the middle of plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars.

One of the best hostels in Sydney for solo travelers in the CBD is the Tequila Sunrise Hostel Sydney , especially as it’s within walking distance of the major attractions. The modern design of the hostel gives you extra privacy in the dorm rooms too, as the bunk beds feel more like private pods with sealed-off sides and a curtain at the entrance.

➡️ Click here for a full list of CBD hotels .

If you want to stay near the beach, Bondi puts you right near Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach. You’ll also find loads of restaurants, bars, and boutiques, as well as eateries serving up healthy smoothies and bowls to appeal to an active crowd.

One top pick for Bondi accommodation for solo travelers in Sydney is Wake Up! Bondi Beach , a private and shared room hostel with epic beach views.

➡️ Click here for a full list of Bondi hotels .

Sydney accommodation map

Of course, these are just a few of many options for solo-friendly suburbs in Sydney. A few other top picks include:

• Newtown. This lively bohemian district is full of cafes, restaurants, and bars.
• Darling Harbour. This waterside pedestrian district is known for its plethora of entertainment and nightlife options as well as family-friendly attractions.
• Paddington. If you’re looking for a more local experience and don’t mind not being within walking distance of major attractions, this area is full of independently-owned businesses and restaurants.

To help you choose your accommodation, you can search this map showcasing a mix of hotels, hostels, apartments, and vacation rentals. It’s currently set to the CBD, though you can easily change it to your preferred area of Sydney:

Top Things To Do Alone In Sydney 

On that note, let’s dive into how actually to spend your time while you solo travel in Sydney. There are so many amazing things to do and see. Add the following to your Australia solo travel itinerary:

1. See the Sydney Opera House

Whether you’re a solo traveler in Sydney or not, you must see the famous Sydney Opera House , an iconic performing arts venue and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It’s renowned for its distinctive sail-like architecture and groundbreaking design by architect Jørn Utzon as well as its cultural significance as a symbol of Australia’s artistic and architectural innovation.

While many people simply stop by to take a picture of the Sydney Opera House facade, it’s highly recommended to book a guided tour to see the inside as well. With a guided tour, you’re able to visit normally off-limit areas and get a peak behind-the-scenes of this famous performance venue.

Another way to experience the Sydney Operate House is to actually attend an event there. Besides operas, they also host musicals, cabarets, dance and contemporary art performances, and much more. You can view their upcoming event schedule here .

2. Walk over the Sydney Harbour Bridge

The second most iconic attraction in Sydney is the Sydney Harbour Bridge – which you can view from the ground or even cross on foot!

While on the bridge, you’ll get a very unique perspective of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour, so definitely bring your camera.

Additionally, walking over the Harbour Bridge is one of the best free things to do alone in Sydney – which is especially great for solo travelers who don’t have others to split costs with.

Love adventure travel ? You can also opt to climb the bridge through Sydney BridgeClimb – a thrilling experience that takes you high above the city.

Other ways to enjoy the Sydney Harbour Bridge include:

• 🌇 Sunset & Sparkle Sydney Harbour Cruise
• 🚴 Sydney Bike Tour
• 😍 Sydney City Highlights & Hidden Gems (Private Tour)
• 🚁 Sydney Harbour Tour by Helicopter

3. Look for Wendy’s Secret Garden

On the other side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, towards the north, you can look for Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden – a secret garden hidden within Lavender Bay Parklands . 

The garden is full of different plants and statues hidden amidst the flowers, and also features chairs and tables where you can relax. It’s a great place if you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

I recommend bringing water and snacks so that you can have your own little picnic in the secret garden. While there are pros and cons to solo travel , one major pro is the ability to get to know yourself better, so consider bringing a journal and taking time for self-reflection too.

Bonus: Searching for a secret garden is not only one of the unique things to do in Sydney , but it’s also great for everyone exploring Sydney on a budget since the garden is completely free to visit. 

4. Visit the Royal Botanical Garden

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is the oldest botanical garden in Australia. It’s located next to Sydney Harbour with an amazing view of the Sydney Opera House and the city skyline.

When you’re traveling solo in Sydney, you can bring a book and a towel to the Royal Botanic Garden, as it’s a great place to relax under a tree and read a book. Or you can simply stroll around the gardens taking in the flora and fauna.

There are also multiple events hosted by the Botanic Gardens, from plant sales to guided walking tours in the park and even walking tours in the Blue Mountains, so make sure to check their calendar .

Keep in mind, this is just one of many garden options in Sydney, with some others including the Paddington Reservoir Gardens , Auburn Botanic Gardens , and Australian Botanic Gardens .

5. Do a coastal hike then relax on the beach

One of the best ways to explore Sydney’s coastal location is to do the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk . 

This stunning coastal walk from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach is about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) and goes past multiple other picturesque beaches. 

If you don’t feel like doing the whole walk you can shorten it and just do the Bondi to Bronte Beach walk , which is about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles).

Whether you do the whole hike or just the shortened version, I recommend doing it from Coogee to Bondi. That way, you can relax at Bondi Beach after your walk. Plus, Bondi has more food options compared to Coogee or Bronte.

You can easily hop on a bus from Sydney’s city center to reach any of these pristine beaches. Once there, you can stroll along the coastal track to a different beach and then catch a bus back to the city.

6. Take a surfing lesson

Have you always wanted to try surfing? Take a surfing lesson at Bondi Beach .

Bondi is one of the world’s most iconic surfing destinations, so you’ll be learning in a place that’s got a lot of surfing history. The beach is also known for its friendly and inclusive vibe, making it easy to meet like-minded people. 

Surf schools in Bondi typically prioritize safety and often offer classes for complete beginners, so you’ll learn everything you need to know about surfing while feeling comfortable and supported as you catch your first wave.

Another positive side effect is that you can say that you went surfing in Australia. How cool is that?

7. Treat yourself to a helicopter tour

If you’re looking for things to do in Sydney as a solo traveler that can help you get amazing photos, a helicopter tour allows you to get a different perspective of the city.

There are different helicopter tours available, and with many of them you can buy a single ticket and share your ride with other people. 

So, go all out and treat yourself to an unforgettable helicopter tour over Sydney ; you’re worth it! A few top-rated options include:

• 🏖️ 20-Minute Helicopter Flight Over Sydney & Beaches
• 😍 30-Minute Sydney Harbour & Olympic Park Helicopter Tour
• 📸 Sydney Grand Tour by Helicopter

8. Visit the Chinese Garden of Friendship

If you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet during your Sydney solo female travel adventure, the Chinese Garden of Friendship is the best place to be.

As soon as you enter this beautiful garden you leave the noise and the stress of the big city behind. You can walk along small paths in the garden while admiring Chinese pagodas, waterfalls, and a pond filled with koi fish. Keep your eyes peeled for big lizards too, as I saw a few during my visit!

The garden is very well maintained and there usually aren’t many people there. And while you will have to pay an entrance fee to get in, I think it’s worth it thanks to the beauty and peace of the place.

There are also plenty of great photo opportunities in this picturesque garden.

9. Shop around Glebe Market

Every Saturday, there’s a big market in Sydney’s Glebe suburb with many second-hand stalls and local artisans. It’s the perfect place to stroll around after having breakfast in the area or you can get some food from one of the many market stalls. 

Besides all sorts of vintage clothing, you can also get unique souvenirs from Sydney. Vendors sell everything: hand-knit decor, sunglasses, comic books, jewelry, and even magic beans!

10. See a movie at an open-air cinema

There’s always something going on in the evenings in Sydney. In the summer months, open-air cinemas pop up all over the city, offering one of the top solo activities in Sydney.

Westpac OpenAir cinema next to the Royal Botanic Garden is probably the one with the most impressive atmosphere. Behind the cinema screen, you have an amazing view of the Sydney skyline and the Sydney Opera House. 

However, be mindful that the Royal Botanic Garden closes its gates at night, so you might need to take a long detour through the dark streets to return to your accommodation after the movie. To play it safe, calling a cab or Uber on the way home is best.

11. See a musical

Another one of the great things to do alone in Sydney at night is to go see a musical. Musicals are performed in different theaters in the city and they change every few months.

The most famous location for seeing a musical is, of course, the Sydney Opera House, but there are also other beautiful local theaters, like the Capitol Theatre .

I watched Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the Capitol Theatre during my visit. The stage design was incredible and the building feels like a castle with all of the intricate ornaments and coats of arms on the walls.

12. Enjoy a sunset at Mrs Macquarie’s Point

The best place in Sydney to see the sunset is Mrs Macquarie’s Point , which sits at the end of a peninsula next to the Royal Botanic Garden. From there, you have a view of the Sydney skyline with the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge behind the waterfront.

This Sydney attraction is named after Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, a bench made out of sandstone rock at the tip of the point. Convicts carved the bench in 1810 for the wife of the governor of New South Wales, since this was her favorite spot in Sydney.

When you walk around Mrs Macquarie’s Point at dusk, keep an eye out for giant fruit bats flying out from the trees. It’s a really interesting sight!

13. Go for a drink with new friends

The good thing about staying in a hostel when you’re traveling alone, besides saving money, is that a hostel is a great place to meet other solo travelers and make friends .

Just start chatting with people in the common room or your dormitory. Remember, almost everyone is in the same boat, and most people staying at hostels truly want to connect with other travelers.

If you’re not comfortable with just chatting with strangers, see if your hostel has any social events you can sign up for, like group tours, comedy nights, or pub crawls.

Keep in mind, many hostels also offer private rooms. If you’re someone who doesn’t want to share your sleeping space, book a private room and make use of the common areas and events for socializing.

Alternatively, you can book a room in a Sydney hotel or vacation rental and then meet people by taking walking tours , joining local CouchSurfing forums and Facebook groups, partaking in local Meetup.com group events, and more.

14. Do a day trip from Sydney

While there are many options, one of the best solo day trips from Sydney is to the Blue Mountains National Park .

Known for its stunning natural beauty – including dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, lush eucalyptus forests, beautiful waterfalls, and diverse wildlife – the park is only about 2 hours from Sydney by car.

The park’s unique topography, which creates a blue haze from the abundant eucalyptus oils, offers the perfect place for Sydney solo travelers wanting to take in amazing panoramic vistas and enjoy some of the world’s best hiking trails and adventures.

A few top-rated treks in the Blue Mountains include the Grand Canyon Track , Three Sisters Walks , and Overcliff-Undercliff Track .

If you’re not feeling up to doing this day trip on your own, there are different companies offering guided tours to the national park. Besides not having to worry about transport, doing a guided tour is a great way to meet others when traveling solo in Sydney. A few top-rated options include:

• 🥾 Small-Group Blue Mountains Tour with Bush Walks and Featherdale Wildlife Park (from Sydney)
• 🚗 Private Blue Mountains Escape The Crowds Tour (from Sydney)
• 😍 All Inclusive Small-Group Blue Mountains Day Trip with Scenic World (from Sydney)
• ⛰️ Half-Day Abseiling Adventure in Blue Mountains National Park (from Katoomba)

15. Explore Sydney’s museums

When it comes to things to do alone in Sydney, few experiences beat wandering a museum. Not only can you learn something new, but these institutions are best explored solo and in your own time.

One of the first museums you should visit is the Museum of Sydney , which provides a great introduction to the history and culture of the city.

If you love art, Art Gallery NSW showcases a huge collection of fine Australian and international art, while the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia features modern works from the country and around the world.

Keep in mind, there are also loads of quirky and niche museums in Sydney, like the Museum of Human Disease , Sydney Bus Museum , Sydney Tramway Museum , and the Justice and Police Museum .

Sydney Travel Map  

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a solo travel in Sydney map. It has all of the places mentioned in this guide pre-plotted:

Click here for the interactive version of the map .

Top-Rated Tours For Solo Travelers In Sydney  

One of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of the places you visit while  meeting locals  and making new friends during solo travel in Sydney is to book a guided tour. A few top-rated tours in Sydney include:

City Tours :

• 📸 Morning or Afternoon Half-Day Sydney City Sightseeing Tour
• 🎨 Sydney Street Art & Food Tour
• 🚲 City Bike Tours (Multiple Route Options!)
• 🍷 Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tour from Sydney including Lunch, Cheese, Chocolate & Distillery
• ⛰️ Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney Including Scenic World
• 🐋 Sydney Whale-Watching Cruise including Breakfast or Lunch

➡️ Click here for a full list of Sydney tours .

Tips For Solo Dining In Sydney

There are so many amazing restaurants in Sydney. Try to embrace the experience of eating on your own, which can actually be very empowering.

Keep in mind, dining solo means you can eat when you want, where you want – and it’s often easier to get a table too. Plus, the more you do it, the easier and more natural it becomes.

Best solo dining in Sydney

A few of my favorite restaurants for eating solo in Sydney include:

Oh My Days . This was my absolute favorite restaurant that I ate at while visiting Sydney solo. It’s a vegan breakfast and brunch place in the Glebe area with a delicious selection of freshly baked pastries – like croissants with different toppings. If you go on a Saturday, you can stroll through the nearby Glebe Market afterward.

Bad Hombres . For dinner, I loved Bad Hombres, a Mexican-inspired vegan restaurant. When I went, the eatery was almost full, and the only reason I was able to score a bar seat without a reservation was that I was solo.

Farmhouse Kings Cross . Not only are their 4-course set menus delicious, but the restaurant features one long communal table, so you’ll be seated with other people to chat with. Just make sure to book in advance, as space is limited.

Advice for solo dining in Sydney:

Opt for communal table restaurants. This can make it easier to meet other people. The above-mentioned Farmhouse Kings Cross is a great example.

Bring a book. Having some sort of activity to enjoy while you eat can make it less awkward.

Sit at the bar. It’s totally normal for solo diners to sit at the bar. Plus, you’ll have the bartend to chat with.

Dine during off-peak hours. If you’re feeling awkward about eating alone, this will make it easier as the restaurant will be quieter.

Choose the right restaurant. If it’s in your solo travel budget , you’ll definitely want to try some of Sydney’s sit-down and fine-dining establishments. That being said, don’t discount food trucks, cafes, and less formal establishments that can feel more natural for eating alone.

Travel Insurance For Solo Travel In Sydney  

When visiting Sydney solo, it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel To Sydney

Now that we’ve gone over your solo travel Sydney itinerary as well as some vital tips, it’s time to answer some common questions:

Q) Is Sydney good for solo travelers?

Yes, Sydney is a great destination for a solo trip. Along with being safe and full of things to do on your own, it’s a popular destination, making it easy to meet other travelers.

Q) Is Australia solo travel friendly?

Overall, Australia is very solo travel-friendly , especially in the big cities. Some smaller towns and coastal regions might be difficult to get to by public transport, but if you’re fine with renting a car then you’ll have an easy time with solo travel in Australia.

Q) Is Sydney a walkable city?

Sydney is regularly rated as the most walkable big city in Australia. Many of the main attractions in Sydney are within a short walking distance of each other; however, the city is still very big so public transportation is still sometimes required.

Q) Is it safe to walk alone in Sydney at night?

Even though Sydney is one of the safest cities in the world, you should always be careful when walking alone at night. Stay in well-lit areas and make sure you have a functioning phone for emergencies.

Q) Is Sydney an expensive city?

Sydney is regularly ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world; however, you’re still able to find affordable hostels and restaurants. Additionally, there are many free things to do in Sydney.

Solo Travel In Sydney: Final Thoughts

Solo female travel in Sydney is a great option both for first-time solo travelers as well as for those who have traveled alone before. The city is truly one of the best places to travel alone in Australia.

There are so many great things to do in Sydney; not just the must-see sights, but also the amazing outdoor activities the city has to offer, like the stunning Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden, and the cool open-air cinemas.

Other highlights of female solo travel to Sydney include the safety of the city and its convenient public transportation system. 

Hopefully, this guide will help you travel solo successfully and with confidence. I wish you all the best on your solo journey, and I hope you fall in love with Sydney as much as I have!

What tips would you add to this guide on solo travel in Sydney, Australia?

About The Author

Tina Riegelnegg is the owner of the vegan travel blog Veganderlust . Her first experience traveling solo was in 2018 when she went on a solo backpacking trip in Southeast Asia – and loved it! In 2023, she spent a few weeks traveling solo through Australia, including Sydney.

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A Comprehensive Guide To Solo Female Travel In Australia

Having spent 12 months road tripping across Australia I can attest to the fact that the varied landscapes of this vast continent are a heaven for those in search of an adventurous escape.

From the passenger window of our vintage Winnebago I watched as miles of arid desert, lush tropical rainforests, and mountainous terrain flew past. And over the course of our yearlong adventure, we drove over 25,000km making it the most EPIC of all our road tripping adventures to date.

While we travelled as a couple, I often questioned how I would have tackled 12 months in Australia on my own. As a solo female traveller there are a few extra considerations to factor into your itinerary planning, not only those that will offer additional security, but aspects of budgeting and logistics that are easier to manage when travelling as part of a couple or group.

I’d say that I’ve a good knowledge of travel in Australia, but today I’m turning to a woman who has spent 10 years travelling solo across the continent. Read on as I chat to Michela Fantinel, author of Your Australia Itinerary , the ultimate guide for female solo travellers.

THE BASICS OF CREATING YOUR OWN AUSTRALIA ITINERARY

Q: What should travellers be aware of when planning their Australian travel itinerary?

The hardest part about creating a good itinerary for travel in Australia is balancing your time frame with the places you want to see and the distances you have to travel.

When crafting your itinerary, factor in the time it takes to travel from one location to the next and choose self-driving routes that match your level of experience. Be realistic, and make sure the distances work with your schedule.

HOW TO GET STARTED PLANNING YOUR AUSTRALIAN ITINERARY

Q: What’s the first thing you should do when planning a trip to Australia?

Set a time frame: And stick to it. Make a list of must-dos and must-sees. Then make sure they’re a good match with the time of year you’re planning to visit. Draw a rough plan: Once you do this, calculate the distances to see if it’s viable.

Choose the most cost-effective transportation modes that allow you to maximize your time. Fix a budget: You’ll need this to stay on track . Make 80% of arrangements: But leave 10-20% to be decided upon spontaneously.

Give shape to your itinerary. In my book I’ve collated 4 itineraries + 36 customisation options , with the resource pages that offer insight into the best times of year to visit each state, highlight the best activities and locations for your style of travel, and how to make the most of your time in some of the country’s most notable places.

WHAT SHOULD SOLO FEMALE TRAVELLERS IN AUSTRALIA KEEP IN MIND?

Q: Are there any considerations that solo female travellers should be particularly aware of?

I have been travelling Australia alone for 1 5 years there aren’t really crucial aspects for female solo travellers, Australia is a safe country for solo travellers . I would suggest planning carefully how to get around, because of its huge distances.

If you want to traverse the country from coast to coast you need to to combine different transportation modes to make the most of your money and time. The same for accommodation, you can save money by staying in hostels, or in private homes. House sitting in Australia is also a great way to stay for free in exchange of house and pet sit.

WHY PRE PLANNING YOUR AUSTRALIAN ESCAPE IS VITAL

Q: How important is it to have a clear idea of what you want to see and do whilst visiting Australia?

Unless you have an unlimited budget you can’t afford to make changes to your plan last minute , because this would mean increasing the cost by 100-200%.

In Australia, distances are huge; it takes a long time to move from A to B. Cheap flights and internal transportation must be booked in advance to save 30-50% on normal rates. Consider renting a car or campervan and sleeping out in some of Australia’s most inspiring wilderness campsites for a quintessential Aussie experience.

Don’t waste time doing extra research when in Australia . You’re there to discover places and experience a new country, not to plan and revise your itinerary. To get the best deals the vast majority of your planning should be completed before leaving for Australia.

WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL AUSTRALIAN ESCAPE

Q: What are the main factors to consider when choosing experiences for your Australian itinerary?

The first should be timing – how much time do you need to see a place? You don’t want to miss out on the big ticket experiences, but you also don’t need to stay too long either. In my book I offer detailed information with advice regarding the optimum amount of time to spend in some of the country’s most iconic locations.

Next is transportation . Self-driving vs public transportation or tours – you need to know all options for each route and choose what makes you feel most comfortable with. Self-driving is a more rewarding way to travel around but it’s not for everyone!

Finally select your destinations wisely . The greater the distances you have to travel between attractions, the more money you’ll spend on transport, and the less time you’ll have to experience the country.

Visit Michela’s informative Australian travel blog RockyTravel.net and and get her  Australia Travel Guide Book  now.

Have you explored Australia solo? Share your experience below!

So much good tips here for solo female travel! It’s a treasure trove! Even though Im already doing solo travel, there’s much more to learn everyday. ?

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I recently got back from cycling the length of New Zealand and it was amazing!!

I have backpacked Europe, South East Asia and Australia and whilst they were all great I loved the nature and uniqueness of travelling this way.

I absolutely love the outdoors and climbing Kilimanjaro and Everest base camp etc are high on the list but now isn't quite the right time. I would love to hear of any other bike-packing, thru hikes or generally outdoorsy adventures you have done throughout the world to give me some inspiration!

4 replies to this topic

Sorry..my idea of fun would be from the back of a horse.

If you want you can cross post on the adventure and or taod trip board on TA. But note doong so.

Also when it cones to ANYTHING think oitside the box. Ther ARE boards/forums for ANYTHING and EVERYTHING...so use your google fu and start googling.

Also did you just try googling for it too?

I have never done this, but I do have friends who do a lot of cycle touring. One of the reasons that I am a solo traveller is because their travel style is not compatible with mine. They are far too fit for me!

They have done many such trips in many parts of the world especially in Europe. I know that France is a big favourite of theirs. The most interesting of their cycle trips I can think of is a trip from Cooktown to Sydney here in Australia, a trip along the whole length of the Pyranees, mostly on the French side, and one of them did a solo cycle trip circumnavigating Iceland.

They and some others that I know have also taken part in French endurance cycling event called Paris - Brest - Paris. But this has a time limit to cycle about 1200 km, so it is not relaxing. They actually cycle through the day and much of the night to go within the time limit.

Have you ever looked at a Mt Toubkal hike and other rustic hikes in Morocco.

There was a great trip write up of a backkroads cycle tour ( for about 10 at a time) in Sri Lanka. It sounded wonderful.

I looked up swimming holidays one time.

Organised trips through the Egyptian desert was on my list ending with the Red Sea

Canoing the Zambezi got a lot of enthusiasm.

Kayak around the islands in Beliez sleeping in hammocks.

There's loads out there.

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Program: RN Breakfast

Meet the Melbourne man circumnavigating Australia

• X (formerly Twitter)

Nine years ago, a Melbourne man flew into the record books as the first person to solo-navigate the world in a single-engine flying boat.

Michael Smith is now set to take on a new challenge, circumnavigating Australia in a seaplane, to mark 100 years since the first such navigation by Australian Airforce pilots.

Guest :Michael Smith, adventurer, entrepreneur and cinema owner  

Georgie Kenyon and David Cook

RN Breakfast, 05th April 2024

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