24 days in Sydney & Melbourne Itinerary

Lent iconic status as a result of its famous bridge and opera house, Sydney has a down-to-earth charm that enhances its spectacular setting and functional efficiency.

Family-friendly places like Bondi Beach and The Rocks will thrill your kids. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Sydney: The Three Sisters (in Katoomba), Kurrajong Radio Museum (in Kurrajong) and Shelly Beach (in Manly). There's still lots to do: take in nature's colorful creations at Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, don't miss a visit to Sydney Opera House, take a memorable tour with Tours, and get up close and personal with brilliant marine life at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium.

To see traveler tips, more things to do, other places to visit, and tourist information, read our Sydney trip itinerary planner.

Melbourne to Sydney is an approximately 3.5-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a train. Traveling from Melbourne in December, Sydney is somewhat warmer at night with lows of 21°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 7th (Thu) to allow time to travel to Melbourne.

The state of Victoria crown jewel, Melbourne boasts shaded streets, leafy residential neighborhoods, vibrant street life, and a picturesque city center.

Kids will enjoy Royal Botanic Gardens and Eureka Skydeck. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Melbourne: The Nobbies Centre (in Summerlands), Werribee Open Range Zoo (in Werribee) and Kitty Miller Bay (in Ventnor). Next up on the itinerary: get to know the resident critters at Melbourne Zoo, take an in-depth tour of Immigration Museum, see the interesting displays at Melbourne Museum, and steep yourself in history at Old Melbourne Gaol.

To see traveler tips, ratings, where to stay, and other tourist information, use the Melbourne vacation planner.

You can fly from Sydney to Melbourne in 3.5 hours. Other options are to drive; or take a train. Expect a bit cooler evenings in Melbourne when traveling from Sydney in January, with lows around 17°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 18th (Mon) so you can travel back home.