Australia’s appetite for travel, while not completely in the black, has recovered impressively after the pandemic, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). In the year to June 2024, over 8.3 million Australians travelled internationally, which is only about 74% of pre-COVID levels. However, it does illustrate a massive rebound from Covid, when borders were closed and only 1.6 million Australians boarded an overseas flight. As we all remember, during the COVID-19 pandemic, travel – especially for holidaymakers – was largely off the cards. While we were busy avoiding crowds and masking up to take the bins out, listless aeroplanes dreamed of floating merry hordes of Aussie travellers over land and sea to new destinations. And we never thought it would end… Doesn’t it seem like a world away from us now? If you’re after some travel inspiration, or stuck on where to go next, here’s a breakdown of where Australians love to travel most.
The best time to travel to Europe in between June and August.
Explore ancient Athens There’s a reason the Acropolis remains the quintessential landmark of Western civilization – it is spectacular. In addition to this towering icon, the streets of central Athens are home to many other remnants of civilizations who have marauded through over time. Indeed, any construction project (like the metro!) unearths more finds.
From the Ottoman houses of the Plaka neighborhood edging the Acropolis, head further back in time to the Roman Agora with its intricately carved Tower of the Winds. Afterward, stop off at the Ancient Agora, the commercial counterpoint to the Acropolis’ religious function.
Planning tip: With more time, other monuments and sites await you, as do world-class museums like the Acropolis Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, the Byzantine and Christian Museum and the Museum of Cycladic Art – pick your favorite and just keep exploring.
2. Italy
Eternal crossroads of the Mediterranean, the gorgeous island of Sicily continues to seduce travellers with its dazzling diversity of landscapes and cultural treasures.Sicily's most enthralling archaeological site encompasses the ruined ancient city of Akragas, highlighted by the stunningly well-preserved Tempio della Concordia, one of several ridge-top temples that once served as beacons for homecoming sailors. The 13-sq-km park, 3km south of Agrigento, is split into eastern and western zones. Ticket offices with car parks are at the park's southwestern corner (the main Porta V entrance) and at the northeastern corner near the Temple of Hera (Eastern Entrance).
3. Japan
The narrow street of Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku, packed with small bars and restaurants.
In 9th place, Japan remains one of the most popular overseas destinations for Australian travellers, despite dropping a few ranks since COVID came through.
Still, for lovers of contemporary Japanese culture and cuisine, or travellers who love to dig through big cities with great nightlife (like Tokyo), Japan offers plenty of adventure for those willing to find it.
4. Singapore
Merlion Statue, the official mascot of Singapore, at Marina Bay in Singapore.
The 8th most popular travel destination for Australians is the island nation of Singapore. We’ve touched on Singapore’s amazing Changi Airport before, but there’s a whole lot more out there to get yourself acquainted with.
Aside from being among one of the cleanest cities in the world, Singapore offers a wide variety of tourist attractions like the Gardens by the Bay, treks through the Southern Ridges, and architecture ranging from 19th-century heritage homes to cutting-edge contemporary structures.
5. Fiji
Octopus Resort in the southern Yasawa Islands.
In 7th place on Australia’s most popular travel destinations list is Fiji. I might add, it’s not hard to see why.
Aside from being close to Australia, Fiji also boasts wild landscapes, tropical beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and pristine lagoons.
With over 300 islands to choose from, that’s a lot of coastline. But if you’re after the perfect island getaway, featuring sun, sand, and surf, then Viti Levu (home to the popular city of Nadi) and Vanua Levu will be top of your list, as this is where the action (or, relaxation) is.
6. India
No, that's not the Sydney Opera House. It's actually the Lotus Temple in New Delhi, India.
Cracking the top 5 is India, a destination that has boomed in popularity this year, and one of the few countries where the number of Australian travellers has surpassed pre-COVID levels by 16%!
While a big contributor to India’s popularity among Aussies could be due to our nation’s growing community of Indian expats, new airline routes that make it easier for us to fly direct may also have made an impact.
The home of Bollywood and the Taj Mahal, big cities like Mumbai and New Delhi, and a centre of spirituality in South Asia, India is a destination that can be tough to travel, but ultimately rewarding.
7. The United Kingdom (UK)
Aberdeen, Scotland.
Like India, there’s a large expat community of people from the UK who reside in Australia, which would undoubtedly contribute to the UK’s 4th place ranking in our list of favourite overseas destinations.
From the hustle and bustle of London, to the open countryside of Scotland (with its fantastic right to roam laws), the UK’s popularity among Aussies doesn’t really surprise – especially since Australians don’t need a visa for the UK in many cases.
The UK is Australia’s gateway to Europe, proving (in my experience) to be a great way to settle into a big Euro trip without a language barrier and grow accustomed to living out of a suitcase (not to mention jetlag).
8. The United States of America (USA)
Yosemite National Park, California, USA.
Australia’s 3rd favourite travel destination is the USA: a powerhouse of Western culture and a land of diverse regions that cater to as many types of travellers as you can poke a selfie stick at.
Are you looking for the latest in fashion or the forefront of culture? New York City is where you’ll find it. Want to get back to nature in some of the most beautiful scenery in the world? Drive out to Yosemite National Park in California – and bring a camera, or you’ll wish you had. Keen for a road trip? The iconic Route 66 caters to just that.
While the US has dropped off a little in popularity, bringing in just over half the Aussie travellers it did pre-pandemic, the country still has a lot to offer if you know where to look. It’s an impressive testament to the USA’s magnetism for Aussies to take third place regardless of its waning popularity.
9. Indonesia
The Tanah Lot Balinese Hindu temple.
Coming closer to home, Indonesia is the 2nd most popular destination for Australians to travel to, continuing our decades-long love affair with places like Bali.
Aside from the nation’s great affordability for Australian travellers, Indonesia boasts prime surfing destinations like Kuta, cultural centre points like Ubud, and a melting pot of history, language and cuisines in the nation’s capital, Jakarta.
Super popular among backpackers and those wanting to wind down and enjoy a day by the ocean (or resort pool) with a cocktail in hand.
10. New Zealand
The view of Auckland city-centre from Mount Eden.
Australia’s No.1 favourite overseas destination is, of course, New Zealand! Just a stone’s throw away, across the Tasman Sea, New Zealand’s stunning natural scenery looks almost as magical in person as it does in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Visit Hobbiton in spring, hit the slopes in winter, or check out Auckland’s stunning harbourside food scene, only a few hours flight from the east coast of Australia.
Note: International travel checklist
If it’s been a while since your last overseas holiday, make sure you:
Check the travel advice for your destinations on Smartraveller
Work out which countries you need a visa for
Ensure you’re up-to-date with the recommended travel vaccinations for where you’re headed
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