TripAdvisor, the largest travel review site in the world, has released the results of its annual travellers choice awards. Based on booking interest and traveller feedback across the last 12 months, the 2016 Trip Advisor travellers choice awards rank everything from the hottest destinations of the year to the most outstanding hotel providers and more. They've also released a list of the top 10 Australian holiday hotspots, so we thought we'd take a look at the list and consider what makes these destinations so good.
Perhaps the most famous city in Australia, it's no surprise to see Sydney topping the list. Of course the Harbour Bridge and Opera House are essential to any visit to Sydney, however there's so much more to Sydney. Beach bums and city slickers love the shopping, dining and nightlife as well as the recreational opportunities at famous Bondi Beach. Be sure to jump on a ferry and sail the beautiful harbour and don't leave town without visiting the cuddly creatures of Taronga Park Zoo.
Don't Miss: Royal Botanic Gardens, Shelly Beach & Art Gallery of New South Wales
This glittering beachfront holiday destination on Queensland's coast is famous for its surf beaches, shopping, vibrant nightlife and family friendly activities and attractions. Spend lazy days on sun kissed beaches soaking up the fantastic Gold Coast weather year round, take a trip to the nearby hinterland for an entirely different change of scenery or pile the family in to the famous theme parks with big thrill rides, animal shows and plenty to keep the littlies entertained as well.
Don't Miss: Burleigh Heads Beach, SkyPoint Climb & Surfer's Paradise Beach
Melbourne's charming and mysterious lane ways have been drawing crowds for decades with its boutique shopping, multicultural dining, spectator sports, bohemian lifestyle and swanky nightlife. Although there's plenty to see here, don't be surprised to find yourself shacked up in a cosy café watching the interesting city crowds pass you by. Famous for its live music scene, Melbourne's Healesville Sanctuary is also worth checking out. Ride the trams around the city to see all the funky little neighbourhoods that radiate out from the CBD.
Don't Miss: Royal Botanic Gardens, The Great Ocean Road & State Library of Victoria
Queensland's culture hub, Brisbane is the third-largest city in Australia and offers the unique combination of simultaneously glimpsing both the past and future. Historic sites such as the convict-built Old Commissariat Store and Windmill are worth a visit along with the new Gallery of Modern Art, for a shot of culture. Enjoy the view from the top of Mount Coot-tha, cruise the iconic Brisbane River and cuddle cute and furry things at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
Don't Miss: South Bank Parklands, Roma Street Parkland & Queensland Museum
The vibrant, tropical setting of Cairns is the ideal city for those wanting a break and those who want to live life in the fast lane. There's heart-pounding adventure to be had alongside eco tours and incredible diving. Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, nature lovers will also get a kick out of visiting the Daintree Rainforest, Cooktown and Cape Tribulation. If you're feeling really adventurous, you can even explore the rest of the Cape York Peninsula.
Don't Miss: Cairns Esplanade Swimming Lagoon, Cairns Botanic Gardens, Tablelands, Waterfalls & Spanish Castle
![Blog - Cairns [HD]](https://www.travelonline.com/news/australias-top-ten-holidays-spots/blog-cairns-hd-47829-ws.jpg)
Port Douglas is out-of-this-world beautiful and is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday. The Great Barrier Reef is easily accessible, the golden sands of Four Mile Beach beckon and nearby attractions like the Daintree and Cape Tribulation offer some exciting options for those who feel like a bit of adventure. However if you prefer to keep the pace slow, you can spend your days sunbaking, being pampered at a day spa, sipping swanky cocktails and indulging in five-star cuisine.
Don't Miss: Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas, Blue Dive Port Douglas - Day Diving & Agincourt Reef
![Blog - Port Douglas [HD]](https://www.travelonline.com/news/australias-top-ten-holidays-spots/blog-port-douglas-hd-47827-ws.jpg)
One of the most isolated cities in Australia, if not the world, Perth is nestled on the banks of the Swan River and bordered by the Nullarbour Desert sands and Indian Ocean. Yet the city still manages to boast some truly happening nightlife and a dynamic beach scene. The swimming, snorkelling and surfing at Cottesloe is family friendly, however for something a little more spirited head north to Scarbourough. No trip to Perth would be complete without a visit to the merry marsupials of Rottnest Island.
Don't Miss: Kings Park & Botanic Garden, Cottesloe Beach & Penguin Island
Hobart is a charming yet lively city that is the biggest in Tasmania. Situated on the south east coast of Australia, Hobart uniquely combines the 21st and 19th centuries for a hip modern yet historic vibe. The delightful waterfront studios, cafes and restaurants are converted centuries-old warehouses that offer lovely views of fishing boats and yachts on the busy harbour. A laidback city with a leisurely pace, Hobart boasts a thriving arts scene and surprisingly vibrant nightlife.
Don't Miss: Louisa's Walk, The Tench (Penitentiary Chapel Historic Site) & Mount Wellington
Adelaide is an enchanting city that is both the capital of South Australia and the heart of the world's opal industry. Be sure to pick up one of the gorgeous stones from the South Australian mines while you're here. A treasure trove of fine arts, shopping and gastronomy, Adelaide also offers plenty for the outdoorsy types with fantastic hikes up the Mt Lofty Ranges and stunning surf off the Fleurieu Peninsula. However perhaps the most popular activity in Adelaide is visiting the wineries of the famous Barossa Valley, where you can pick up a delicious drop to take home with you.
Don't Miss: Adelaide Botanic Garden, Cleland Wildlife Park & River Torrens Linear Park Trail
Famous for is colourful bays and pristine expanses of beach, Noosa is also world-famous as a surfing destination. The sleepy yet chic beachside town is perfect for kicking back and relaxing on its golden sands, shopping at the main street boutiques and enjoying long leisurely lunches. However if you feel like exploring the great outdoors, the Noosa National Park offers some wonderful hikes. You can also kayak on the open sea, canoe through the Noosa River Everglades or take a day trip to the Heritage listed sand dunes and rainforest of Fraser Island.
Don't Miss: Noosa Main Beach, Noosa National Park & Peregian Beach
