If you love national parks, Australia is the place to go. Australia has over 500 national parks, the most of any country in the world. But some stand out from the rest. Here are some highlights to explore when planning a trip to Australia. These national parks will help you experience some of the best aspects of the country.
Lonely Planet's Best of Australia

Lonely Planet is one of the world's leading travel guide publishers. Lonely Planet Discover Australia is your passport to the country's most spectacular sights and authentic experiences. Highlights include the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, and Sydney Harbour. Plus, get tips on the best food and wine and explore hidden corners of the country.

For the ultimate road trip shorttravelshots.com, Lonely Planet has created its Australia's Best Trips guide, which is packed with dozens of must-see sights and experiences. Whether you are travelling for a weekend or a longer holiday, Lonely Planet will provide you with everything you need to plan your trip to Australia's most exciting destinations.

Australia's landscapes are diverse, ranging from temperate rainforests to remote rocky outcrops. Hundreds of bird species make Australia a birdwatcher's paradise. You'll see everything from majestic Uluru to a variety of colorful fish and birds.
Blue Mountains

If you're planning a trip to the Blue Mountains, Australia, there are plenty of things to do. From sweeping views of the Megalong Valley to the wonders of Jenolan Caves, the region has something to offer everyone. There are also several excellent wineries to visit, including Megalong Creek Estate and Dryridge Estate.

Located just two hours outside of Sydney, the Blue Mountains are perfect for a day trip or an entire weekend. While visiting during summer is pleasant, temperatures are much cooler in autumn, making it a great time to go bushwalking. Winter, meanwhile, is chilly, but also the peak tourist season. In July, you can celebrate Yulefest, a festive Christmas festival that takes place in the Blue Mountains.

From Sydney, you can take a train to the Blue Mountains, which leaves about every half hour during peak hours. You can connect at major stations en route, including Mount Victoria and Lithgow. The train runs to Katoomba and other small towns in the region. Usually, the last train departs at 10 PM.
Cairns

If you're planning a vacation to Australia, Cairns is a city you should not miss. Located in the top half of the country, Cairns is the perfect jumping off point to explore the surrounding region. Tens of thousands of tourists from around the world visit the area each year to take advantage of the city's diverse attractions. From diving and snorkeling to scenic flights and rain-forest treks, Cairns offers something for everyone.

There's no better way to see Cairns than by water. For thrill seekers, you can go rafting on the Trinity Inlet. Or, try a variety of water sports at Fitzroy Island, the locals' best kept secret. The island offers sea kayaking, ocean trampolining, snorkelling, diving, and more. For nature lovers, you can also take part in white water rafting in the Tully River or the World-Heritage Rainforest.
Sydney

If you're planning a holiday to Sydney, Australia, you need to take a few things into consideration before you go. While Sydney is famous for its sun-seeking population, you'll need to prepare yourself for the city's unpredictable weather. With its sub-tropical climate, torrential rain is not unusual in Sydney. During the summer, storms roll in from the Tasman Sea and can strike without warning.

Sydney's sprawling suburban rail network covers over eighty-two kilometers and 176 stations, making it easy to travel from one part of the city to another. You can catch a train every 30 minutes throughout the city, with frequency increasing in the centre of town. The train service is usually fast, but you may find it a little chaotic during busy times.
Melbourne

The winters in Melbourne are mild and seldom snowy, but mornings can be cold enough to form a frost, and temperatures can occasionally drop to freezing at night. Spring is mild and sunny, though temperatures may be a bit unpredictable. There are plenty of ways to get around Melbourne, from public transport to renting a car. It's important to note that driving in Melbourne can be a challenge - don't try to drive if you don't know the area well.

Melbourne is considered to be one of the world's most livable cities, and has plenty to offer visitors. Its cultural scene and world-class sporting calendar are sure to delight visitors. Its Victorian streetscapes are a beautiful backdrop for exploring the city. There are many places to dine in the city, including famous Australian chefs.
Perth

Perth is a beautiful and unique city in Australia, nestled between the rugged coastline and the expansive nature of Western Australia. From its pristine white sand beaches to its cosmopolitan urban lifestyle, this city offers something for everyone. It's also a convenient place to see unique wildlife, idyllic local wineries, and a number of epic events.

The best time to visit Perth is during the fall and spring. The weather is at its most pleasant in these seasons, and you can enjoy beautiful flower displays. However, if you are allergic to the local flora, you may want to take antihistamines and hay fever medication. Also, summer months can be harsh, so make sure to pack a hat and sunscreen lotion.
Wollongong

Wollongong is the third largest city in the state of New South Wales, and offers a lively environment for culture and leisure. Its North Beach blends into the rugged landscape of the Great Pacific Drive, while the nearby Belmore Basin has some of the most spectacular views of the Tasman Sea. Visitors can also explore the Wollongong Art Gallery and the impressive planetarium at the Wollongong Science Centre.

The city has plenty of things to do, and is a great spot for a weekend getaway from Sydney. The surrounding areas and attractions are also worth exploring, including the Blue Mountains, the Royal National Park, and the Southern Highlands. You can also take a skydiving or hang-gliding adventure to explore the wildlife and spectacular views of the coast.
Newcastle

Once known as the Steel City, Newcastle has emerged as one of Australia's hippest cities. The city is flanked by the Pacific Ocean and boasts six beaches on its eastern side, and a picturesque harbor on the west. In recent years, the city has undergone a redevelopment process, with the old steel mills being converted into trendy cafes and hotels.

The city is a great spot for a family getaway. It is home to some of Australia's best surfing beaches, and is close to a number of wineries. There are plenty of places to eat and drink in Newcastle, as well as great hiking and biking trails. There are also Aboriginal sites and beautiful waterfalls.