Travelling to a new destination is always exciting, but knowing the best time to visit can make your trip even better. Whether you're itching for an adventure down under or dreaming of a faraway land, here's a guide to the top destinations for each season, both domestically and internationally.
Following this helpful guide to travelling with the seasons is sure to spice up your travel plans and make you a well-seasoned traveller.
Summer
Domestic: Tasmania
While the rest of Australia sizzles in the dry summer heat, Tasmania offers pleasant temperatures along with an almost constant sea breeze.
Tasmania truly comes to life in the summer, offering a host of epic annual events that attract visitors from all around. Among these are the iconic Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, which sees competitors sailing through the Bass Strait, and Mona’s Festival of Music and Art (Mofo), merging contemporary culture with art and sound.
International: Dubai
Australia’s summer months are a great time to visit Dubai as it is winter there and temperatures become far more manageable than its summer highs, which reach the mid-40s with high humidity.
Here, you can explore the world’s tallest hotel, largest shopping mall, and iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building on the planet.
And don't forget to experience Dubai's famous New Year's Eve celebration, renowned for having the world’s largest displays of fireworks at the Burj Khalifa, where a stunning combination of lasers, lights, and fireworks creates an unforgettable show.
Autumn
Domestic: Dandenong Ranges
Just to the east of Melbourne lies the stunning Dandenong Ranges with its rolling hills and valleys. As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into an array of colours, with the leaves turning fiery hues, creating a visual spectacle best enjoyed on a scenic drive or a leisurely hike. These hues are best seen in places like the R J Hamer Arboretum, with over 150 species of trees, as well as in the area's gardens like George Tindale Memorial Gardens and the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens, offering panoramic sights of the Yarra Valley and the Great Dividing Range.
After a day of exploration, stay at a charming Bed & Breakfast in the heart of the ranges. For a nostalgic touch, ride the Puffing Billy Railway, a heritage steam train offering a unique view of the Dandenongs’ natural beauty.
International: Japan
Autumn in Australia means spring in Japan. It also is the perfect time to experience Hanami Season. The Hanami Season celebrates the magical beauty of cherry tree blossoms, occurring from March to May. For some of the best views, visit to Kyoto or Tokyo, or for an iconic scene, catch the cherry blossoms with Mount Fuji as a backdrop. The best viewing in 2024 in Tokyo is estimated from April 4 to 10, while in Kyoto, it is from April 5 to 10.
Winter
Domestic: Thredbo & Perisher
Winter in Australia brings cooler temperatures and snow to areas such as Thredbo and Perisher. Perisher is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, while Thredbo has Australia’s longest ski runs and access to Mount Kosciuszko.
International: Bali, Indonesia
Bali, Indonesia, is that perfect summer getaway. With warm hugs of sunlight, impressive beaches, and a rich cultural tapestry, it's a paradise ready to be discovered. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters off Menjangan Island, and don't forget to indulge your taste buds in the culinary delights of Indonesian cuisine, such as Bebek Betutu! For those seeking an adrenaline thrill, hike to the peak of Mount Batur for a picturesque sunrise or discover the peaceful green embrace of Tegalalang Rice Terraces.
Spring
Domestic: Canberra
What better time to visit Canberra than in the spring, where you can enjoy the annual 'Floriade Festival'? Here, enjoy a flower and entertainment event with spectacular floral displays, art, and fun. The city also houses the Australian War Memorial and countless other interesting and educational museums.
But that's not all – while you're in Canberra, take advantage of its cool climate, superb dining, world-class cultural experiences, and unique blend of city life with neighbouring wildlife-filled bushland reserves, such as kangaroos, and serene lakeshore vistas.
Take a stroll around Lake Burley Griffin and take in the area's wildlife which includes a great deal of kangaroos.
International: Vancouver Island
With direct flights from Australia to Vancouver, you can easily get to this beautiful area of western Canada. A scenic ferry ride will transport you to Vancouver Island, where you can search for orca whales, eagles, and even bears along the coast.
Once there, explore the world-famous Butchart Gardens, listed as a National Historic Site of Canada that is perfect for autumn foliage viewing. Each year, more than a million people visit these gardens.