Pompeii, Paestum & Herculaneum in the Winter
- Return flights
- 7 nights half-board in a 4-star hotel
- 14 meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 dinners and welcome drink
Mon-Fri: 0900 -1800 Sat: 09:00 - 17:00 Sun& BH: Closed
Mon-Fri: 0900 -1800 Sat: 09:00 - 17:00 Sun& BH: Closed
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For most of us, a trip to Australia is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Travelling to the other side of the world, you’ll want to see as many amazing sights as you can. Yet planning such an epic holiday can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s where we come to the rescue. With our inside knowledge and many years of experience, we’ve created this epic itinerary that leaves no stone unturned.
From the world-famous cities of Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane to iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) and the incredible Great Barrier Reef, it's all included in this fabulous holiday. You’ll also visit the outback town of Alice Springs and discover amazing natural wonders on lesser-known Kangaroo Island and at Kakadu National Park.
With a Holiday Director on hand to make sure things run smoothly, all the planning and organising is taken care of. However, you’ll still have plenty of free time to tailor your trip and make it right for you. There’s an array of optional excursions to choose from or you can spend time exploring by yourselves. You could even arrange to have dinner with a friend in Perth or catch up with family in Sydney. The possibilities are endless on this amazing all-encompassing tour.
After arriving in Perth on day 2, we'll drive you to your hotel where you’ll have time to relax and freshen up after the journey. Perth is situated on Australia’s western coast on the shores of the Indian Ocean. Exciting and cosmopolitan, on day 3, we’ll discover what makes the city unique on a half-day sightseeing tour. We’ll stroll through Kings Park, taking in fabulous views from its treetop walkway, and see landmarks including the iconic Bell Tower and Elizabeth Quay, with its waterfront bars and restaurants. Finally, we’ll head to the picture-perfect Cottesloe Beach, known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear water.
Perth has so much to offer and after yesterday’s tour, you can discover its delights just as you wish today. It's one of the world's most envied locations in which to live, with lush parks, excellent restaurants, the stunning Swan River and a lovely warm climate. You could visit the Art Gallery of Western Australia or browse the shops in the open-air Hay Street Mall.
As an alternative, you might choose to join an optional excursion to Rottnest Island, which sits about 12 miles off the coast and is accessible by ferry. It's home to the friendly quokka, a small wallaby-like marsupial, and beautiful white-sand beaches. After touring the island by bus, you’ll enjoy lunch and have some free time before we return to the city.
Today has been left free so you can make further discoveries in Perth at your own pace. From walking trails to botanical gardens, there's loads to keep you occupied. Alternatively, why not join an optional tour of the lively port city of Freemantle, which you'll reach via a cruise on the Swan River. Rich in history, Freemantle is filled with handsome 19th-century buildings and after a tour, you’ll have free time to explore at leisure. Coffee lovers should head to Cappuccino Strip, lined with open-air coffee shops, pubs and restaurants. Other highlights include the fishing boat harbour and a host of interesting museums. We'll head back to the hotel by coach.
We’ll fly to our next destination, Adelaide, today. When we arrive, an orientation tour will show you the highlights of the city before we drive to our hotel. It’s in an ideal position if you want to head out by yourselves to explore. The city’s landmarks and an array of bars and restaurants are all just a short stroll away.
There's an early start today, as we head to Cape Jervis and take a ferry over to Kangaroo Island. Home to many native wildlife species, more than a third of this nature-lovers paradise is protected land. As well as kangaroos and wallabies, look out for sea lions basking on the sandy beaches and koalas dozing in the branches of eucalyptus trees. The island is also home to more than 260 species of birds and around 50 plant species that are found nowhere else on Earth. Its shores play host to many types of whales as well as dolphins, so keep your fingers crossed for a sighting.
When we arrive on the island, we’ll learn about the honey produced by the island’s Ligurian bees and visit a eucalyptus oil distillery. We’ll also spend time at Birds of Prey conservation centre and get up close to wild seals during a guided beach walk at Seal Bay Conservation Park. We’ll then stay on the island overnight in a hotel surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Meals included: B,LYour discoveries of Kangaroo Island continue today with a visit to Flinders Chase National Park. Here you'll see Admirals Arch - a beautiful arch of rock which has been shaped by the Southern Ocean - and the sculptured granite boulders known as Remarkable Rocks. You'll also visit Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, which boasts a notable population of koalas, and Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, home to many different species. Later, we'll travel back to Adelaide.
Meals included: B,LYou're going to travel towards the Great Ocean Road today as you head to Warrnambool in Victoria. Along the way, we’ll make stops to explore picturesque waterfront towns and marvel at the scenery, so be sure to have your camera handy.
Today en route to Melbourne, you'll take in the sights from the Great Ocean Road - quite simply one of the most spectacular coastal routes in the world. Highlights include the Twelve Apostles, although only eight of these towering limestone stacks remain, Loch Ard Gorge and many other dramatic rock formations.
Meals included: BEnjoy a lazy morning, before setting off on a tour of Melbourne. Highlights include Federation Square, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Flinders Street Station and the Grand Prix Circuit that circles Albert Park Lake. Another stop is Fitzroy Gardens, which features pathways lined with towering elms, colourful floral displays and the Fairies' Tree sculpture - a centuries-old tree stump featuring delightful carvings.
After getting to know Melbourne on yesterday’s tour, you can slow the pace a little and spend the day exploring at your own pace. You could perhaps take a leisurely stroll through the city’s Royal Botanic Gardens or wander through the laneways admiring colourful street art and browsing hidden boutiques.
You might be tempted to join an optional visit to Phillip Island to see the remarkable penguin parade. At sunset, after a hard day's fishing, hundreds of these delightful creatures - the world's smallest penguin - appear from out of the ocean and waddle their way across the beach to their sand dune burrows. You can take in this marvellous spectacle from special viewing platforms.
We're flying to Sydney this morning, where you'll stay for the next three nights. When we arrive, a coach will be waiting to take us on an afternoon sightseeing tour. Tick off the gorgeous white sands of Bondi Beach and Hyde Park, which is home to numerous monuments including the ANZAC Memorial. You'll also visit Darling Harbour, which hosts a dazzling array of attractions from bars and bistros to an aquarium and a zoo, as well as Mrs Macquarie's Chair. This huge sandstone rock was hand-carved by convicts into the shape of a bench for Governor Macquarie's wife, Elizabeth, in 1810. Why not sit for a while and take in the views from this wonderful vantage point.
After checking in to the hotel, you are free to do as you please this evening. If you would like to head out for dinner, your Holiday Director will be pleased to provide a recommendation.
With a full day at leisure, you can discover Sydney at your own pace. Perhaps spend time wandering through Centennial Park or admiring fabulous views of the harbour from the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden.
Alternatively, for a different perspective and a truly unforgettable experience, why not join our optional excursion and take in panoramic, 360-degree views of the harbour on a guided Sydney Harbour Bridge climb.
Another optional excursion gives you the chance to step beneath the sails and enjoy a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House. You'll learn about the history of the building, uncover stories about artists and the shows performed here and have an opportunity to visit areas usually off-limits to the general public.
You have another day to explore Sydney independently. There are plenty of magnificent museums and art galleries to discover or maybe you’ll take to the water and admire the sights on a Sydney Harbour cruise.
If you want to join an organised trip, why not come with us on a thrilling optional excursion. You'll head through the Blue Mountains, past the Three Sisters rock formation and along Jamieson Valley - Australia's answer to the Grand Canyon. Then, you'll visit Scenic World, where you can opt to take a journey on the world's steepest incline railway into ancient rainforest or enjoy a scenic cable-car ride over the valley.
This morning you’ll fly to Uluru, or Ayers Rock. This gigantic sandstone monolith, which is two miles long, nearly 350 metres high and measures almost six miles around the base, is in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. One of the most impressive landmarks in Australia, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sacred place in Aboriginal culture and features many caves and ancient rock paintings. It's an incredible sight at any time of the day, but at sunrise and sunset, it changes colour dramatically with the light. After time to settle in at the hotel, your sunset visit to Uluru this evening includes a glass of sparkling wine.
We also offer an optional visit to the Field of Light, a magical art installation covering an area larger than seven football fields. When you arrive in this remote part of the desert, what you’ll see is more than 50,000 lights illuminating the landscape in shades of violet, blue and white.
You have an early start today, but it's worth it as you’re going to visit Uluru once again, this time at sunrise. You can also tour the base of the rock and view Aboriginal rock paintings in the caves here. After this, we'll head to the mysterious Kata Tjuta, 36 domed red-rock formations also known as The Olgas. Located to the west of Uluru, it’s thought that they were once one huge piece of rock like Uluru, but over millions of years have been shaped by the forces of nature.
We then continue by road to Alice Springs, where you'll enjoy an authentic bush barbecue in the Australian Outback this evening. The fun starts at sunset as we take to the road to try to spot kangaroos. Before you eat you can try your hand at boomerang throwing, and afterwards you can indulge in a spot of stargazing.
Meals included: B,DThis morning, head off on a fascinating tour that introduces you to the Flying Doctor Base and the old Telegraph Station, the original site of the first European settlement in central Australia, which is now a museum. You will also visit the famous School of the Air. If you want to get out and about in the great outdoors, join an optional excursion to the spectacular Western MacDonnell Mountain Ranges.
Meals included: BToday we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Darwin.
Meals included: BYour destination today is Kakadu National Park, where you'll discover lush rainforest, scenic rivers and a diverse range of wildlife. We’ll make a stop at the Mamukala Wetlands, a haven for birds, and then head to the Bowali Visitor Centre, where you’ll learn more about Kakadu. You’ll discover that the park is famous for its fascinating Aboriginal rock art and before we make our way to our hotel, you've the chance to walk up Ubirr Rock. Here you'll see some of the most outstanding examples of rock art in the world and take in stunning views of the Nadab floodplain.
Meals included: BA journey by road this morning takes us to Katherine via the stunning Nourlangie Rock, where you can set off on a walk to see more Aboriginal rock art. The highlight of our day comes in the form of a thrilling cruise on the famous Yellow Water Lagoon. Look for many species of birds, from whistling ducks to eagles, and keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles in their natural habitat and buffalo on the floodplains.
Meals included: BAfter breakfast, we’re going to take a tranquil cruise through the Katherine Gorge. As you sail through the picturesque scenery, with limestone cliffs on either side, expert guides will explain the history and geology of the area and tell you all about the flora and fauna you're likely to see.
Later, we’ll make our way back to Darwin.
Meals included: BToday you’ll fly to Cairns, your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef!
Meals included: BToday you are going to board a catamaran and take a trip to the outer Great Barrier Reef. Marine life comes incredibly close, and you can experience the beauty of the reef without getting wet from the comfort of a semi-submersible or an underwater observatory. Look out for dazzling displays of coral, brightly coloured Nemo-like clownfish, turtles and so much more! If you are feeling a little more adventurous, you can even go snorkelling in this amazing underwater world as all the equipment will be supplied. Lunch will be included today.
Meals included: LAfter so much excitement, today has been left free for you to relax and enjoy the facilities at your hotel. Sit back with a good book or sip a cocktail in the bar – the choice is all yours.
Alternatively, if you want to see more, join us for a ride on the Kuranda Railway and Skyrail. We’ll enjoy views of mountains, tropical rainforest and the spectacular Barron Falls as the train makes its way to the village of Kuranda. Here you’ll have free time to explore what’s on offer and grab a coffee or bit to eat if you wish. We’ll then board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a fabulous adventure that sees us gliding above and through the rainforest.
You can spend today doing just as you wish. Your hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the city, so maybe take a stroll along the bustling Esplanade or head to the gorgeous Cairns Botanic Gardens.
If you’d prefer to join an organised tour, we offer an optional trip to the Daintree Tropical Rainforest, home to a stunning array of flora and fauna. You’ll learn about this tropical ecosystem from an expert guide as we cruise the Daintree River in search of crocodiles. Then, it’s time for lunch at the Daintree Tea House and your excursion ends with some free time to explore the village of Daintree.
You’ll fly from Cairns to Brisbane today and when we arrive, you are free to head out and explore by yourselves. The capital of the Sunshine State, Brisbane is a modern, bustling metropolis that sits on the banks of the Brisbane River. There is no shortage of things to see and do here including a vast array of restaurants, cafés and shops to explore. Perhaps head to Howard Smith Wharves for dazzling night-time views of Story Bridge and the city skyline or enjoy a drink at one of the city's many rooftop bars.
Before flying home tomorrow, you’ve a free day to spend at leisure. A great way to explore Brisbane is by CityCat, fast-paced ferries that travel along the river and call at various stops along the way. South Bank, Brisbane’s cultural heart, is well worth a visit. Here, you'll find Australia’s largest gallery of modern art and Streets Beach, the country’s only man-made beach located within a city!
Alternatively, why not join an optional excursion to North Stradbroke Island. Fondly known as Straddie by the locals, it is the world's second-largest sand island and a fabulous place to relax and soak up the spectacular natural scenery. We’ll spend some time at Brown Lake, a popular spot for swimming, and try to spot dolphins, turtles and manta rays at Point Lookout’s North Gorge. Lunch will be an Aussie-style barbecue on Flinders Beach and later we’ll head to Amity Point, keeping an eye out for the resident Koalas.
It’s the end of your epic adventure. With a lifetime of memories to cherish, we will drive you to the airport for your flight back to the UK.
You'll arrive back in the UK today.
Visit world-famous Ayers Rock at sunrise and sunset and experience awe-inspiring views as the changing light plays with the landscape.
Rendezvous Studio Hotel Perth Central is a modern 103 room, fully renovated urban hotel conveniently located on the western edge of Perth’s central business district. Adjacent Kings Park and 5 minutes walk to the main shopping district of Hay and Murray Street Malls.
The Vibe Hotel Adelaide is located just a km from Rundle Mall in the vibrant streets of Adelaide's East End, close to some of the city's best restaurants and bars. Facilities include a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and terrace.
Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge is located in bushland overlooking American River Bay and close to Penneshaw Penguin Centre. Hotel rooms feature en-suite facilities, Wi-Fi internet, LCD TVs and tea/coffee-making facilities. Other hotel amenities include outdoor swimming pool, sauna and tennis court. Seasonal local produce and fresh seafood can be sampled in the restaurant located on-site, as well as local beers, ciders and wine can be enjoyed in the hotel's bar.
The Vibe Hotel Adelaide is located just a km from Rundle Mall in the vibrant streets of Adelaide's East End, close to some of the city's best restaurants and bars. Facilities include a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and terrace.
Mid City Motel Warrnambool is located at the western end of the world-renowned Great Ocean Road, only 50 metres from the centre of the town and a short stroll to beautiful beaches nearby. Facilities include Elements Bar & Restaurant, in-room dining, outdoor swimming pool, spa and guest laundry for your convenience. Warrnambool is a friendly and relaxing town with a selection of bars and restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. All rooms feature en suite facilities, air conditioning, TV, phone and internet access.
The Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne is a heritage listed hotel. Within walking distance you can find shopping, dining & entertainment, perfect for exploring. There is also a bar, restaurant and fitness centre, if you wish to stay at the hotel. Rooms are furnished with air-conditioning, safe, TV and tea & coffee-making facilities.
Novotel Sydney City Centre is ideally located in the Central Business District of Sydney within the easy reach of many major attractions. Hotel rooms feature en-suite facilities, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee-making facilities and flat-screen TVs. Other hotel amenities include a restaurant and a bar.
Situated within an oasis of native gardens, Desert Gardens Hotel offers elegant guestrooms. Each room is air-conditioned and has a TV with movies-on-demand and tea/coffee-making facilities. Other hotel facilities include an outdoor swimming pool and a bar. Arnguli Grill, restaurant located on-site, offers an à la carte menu of traditional Australian cuisine.
Experience eco-friendly settings and enjoy stunning views of the majestic MacDonnell Mountain Ranges when you stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Alice Springs. Conveniently located just off the Stuart Highway, hotel is within walking distance of downtown and provides easy access to many local attractions such as Anzac Hill. All hotel rooms feature air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and tea/coffee-making facilities. Other hotel amenities include fitness centre, outdoor heated swimming pool and restaurant, serving modern Australian cuisine.
Travelodge Resort Darwin is located close to great shopping areas and many major city attractions. The resort is positioned in the perfect location to experience all the area has to offer. The hotel has a pool and a gym.
From the marble foyer to the uniquely shaped exterior, the 4-star Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel is a cool retreat in the midst of Kakadu National Park’s wilderness and the ideal base to explore the Ubirr, Nourlangie and Jim Jim areas of Kakadu. Facilities include a restaurant and bar/lounge. All rooms feature en suite facilities, air-conditioning, coffee/tea-making facilities, TV and hairdryer.
Home to spectacular gorges, wondrous swimming holes and abundant wildlife, the area also has a rich indigenous history and is the perfect place to learn about the Aboriginal ancient culture. Contour Hotel is set amongst 4 acres of tropical gardens and the ideal base to explore the area. Facilities include tennis courts and outdoor swimming pool, and barbecue area.
Travelodge Resort Darwin is located close to great shopping areas and many major city attractions. The resort is positioned in the perfect location to experience all the area has to offer. The hotel has a pool and a gym.
Transformed in 2019 with a new lobby, restaurant & bar, guest rooms and public spaces, discover Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort. This excellent resort has a sandy lagoon style pool boasting a swim up bar and lush tropical gardens
Located opposite the City Botanic Gardens and a 5 minute walk from the Queen Street Mall the Royal on the Park is a well reviewed hotel. With facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, bar and restaurant. Rooms feature floor to ceiling windows for views of the city or gardens, en-suite and coffee machine.
Experience even more of your destination by adding one or more optional experiences to your holiday before you set off. Take a look below at the extra trips you can enjoy on this tour
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Choose to extend your stay with an organised add-on.
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Iconic cities, famous landmarks and natural wonders are waiting to be discovered as you journey from Melbourne to Brisbane.
Make the most of the journey by visiting both Australia and New Zealand. First, visit Australia, where this epic tour will introduce you to Australia's iconic cities; then, travel for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday to New Zealand, featuring the best of the North and South Islands.
Iconic cities, famous landmarks and natural wonders are waiting to be discovered as you journey from Melbourne to Brisbane. Then take a once-in-a-lifetime holiday to New Zealand featuring the best of both the North and South Islands
Prices shown are based on twin occupancy of a double or twin bedded room with private facilities unless otherwise stated. Single occupancy supplements will apply. Travelsphere have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the hotel images provided on this website and images of room types displayed may vary to those offered on your tour. Therefore due to the possibility of inadvertent errors we do not guarantee their accuracy. Accommodation, airlines used and flight times are subject to change and will be confirmed in your final documents.
All Travelsphere holidays are financially protected via ATOL (flight-inclusive holidays) and financial insurance (non-flight packages). Additionally, all customer money is held in a Trust Fund, governed by independent Trustees. This means your money is 100% protected no matter what.