Australia's main attractions are in the cities, not in the wild

Australia is one of the world’s economically most advanced and developed nations. It is well known as a major global powerhouse and a hub of culture, education and manufacturing. Thousands of people head to Australia aiming to get a good quality higher education, while even more are trying to move there due to a whole range of benefits.
However, when it comes to tourism and its main attractions, Australian culture or education are not the first things that appear in our minds. The country’s tourism industry revolves around its spectacular, unspoiled nature and wildlife. Australia is one of the world’s largest countries measured by the area. However, due to its small population, the majority of the country is not densely populated or inhabited at all. Another positive contributor to its beautiful landscapes and untouched nature is the geographic location of the country. Placed in the middle of the ocean, it maintains its very own ecosystem all across the continent.
The country is home to some of the most unique creatures that are still inhabiting the planet earth. From widely adored kangaroos to koalas and even penguins, Australia positions itself as the global tourist attraction for the lovers of wildlife. Videos of snakes or giant spiders in suburban Australian apartment buildings often go viral on the internet, showcasing how animals coexist with people. However, the wildfires in 2019 are estimated to have killed over a billion animals around the country, sparking a global discussion on how we preserve our natural wonders.
Yes, some of the abovementioned animals can be observed in local zoos all around the world. However, seeing them in their natural habitat is what many people desire. After all, everyone wants to look at a kangaroo out of the car window jumping at the speed of 70 kilometers per hour. Without a doubt, that is a marvelous encounter that many want to experience at least once in their lifetime.
Wildlife might not be the most interesting attraction of Australia – prospectively the biggest one either
It is true that the majority of visitors that often cross half of the planet to reach Australia want to see the country’s wildlife – a natural wonder and the national treasure. However, since it is the 6th largest country on earth, many miss out on the enchanting cities of Australia. We might even say that the wildlife attractions are widely overshadowing the urban areas of the country.
Unfortunately, not many people know that Australia is home to some of the most diverse, culturally enriched, liveable, green and fun global cities on earth. The majority of them are concentrated on the south-eastern coast of the country, including Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne and Newcastle. The capital city of Canberra is also in the east but a bit off the ocean, yet still a part of the coastal region. Pretty much the only major city in the western part of Australia is Perth, which as well is located in the south. This geographic cluster of urban areas is why many people miss out on them, as the majority of wildlife attractions are on the other side of the nation.
However, the number of people visiting urban sprawls in Australia is quickly increasing. One of the industries attracting lots of people is gambling. Due to the softened legislation on casinos in the country, many people come to play online casino games in Australia, since such activities are prohibited in many Asian nations. Gambling is becoming an important driving force for the national economy and a major boost for the tourism industry as well.
Australian cities are ranked as some of the most liveable in the world. For a long time now, Melbourne and Sydney have been topping the list coming at second and third places respectively. The liveability index combines a lot of factors that influence our daily lives in cities. Thus, it is a good indicator of how dynamic and fun, as well as environmentally-friendly urban areas around the world, are.
Sydney – the thriving metropolis of Australia
Cities in Australia are packed with a whole range of activities one can enjoy while on a trip. Sydney, the country’s unofficial capital features one of the world’s most well-recognized landmarks – the Sydney Opera House. Designed by Jørn Utzon, the iconic building opened its doors to the public in 1973, after almost 14 years of construction. Now it attracts millions of visitors every year. Another must-see sight in the biggest city of Australia is the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which was built almost a century ago. It offers stunning views over the beautiful Port Jackson Bay – a not to miss picture opportunity.
Besides those famous sights, visiting or living in Sydney comes with a unique lifestyle. The city is packed with Michelin star restaurants, boutique shops, high-end hotels, as well as cheap bars and pubs. The entertainment scene in Sydney is without a doubt one of the best in the world. Moreover, for those who prefer a less active lifestyle, it offers a whole range of green spaces, world-class beaches and cultural venues. In the end, everything mentioned above is perfectly connected with a very efficient public transport system.
Melbourne – the Australian capital of culture
Melbourne is the southernmost and the second-largest city in Australia. The capital of the state of Victoria is widely recognized as the culturally most significant city in Australia and one of the largest hubs of culture in the world. It was initially established as a British settlement and saw a major European, particularly British influence on its cultural development ever since its foundation. Later, migrants from different parts of the world, primarily from Asia and the Americas shaped the city into what today is one of the most multicultural and diverse cities globally.
The Royal Exhibition building featuring beautiful gardens is one of the major cultural venues in the city along with the other. Melbourne regularly hosts major globally significant exhibitions, including some of the contemporary arts. The La Trobe Reading Room in the State Library of Victoria captivates its readers and visitors, while Princess Theatre offers some of the world’s most famous plays.
Besides being a cultural hotspot, the city is known for its well-balanced mix of the old and new. Glass skyscrapers now dominate Melbourne’s dazzling skyline, but old, Victorian buildings can be found proudly standing next to them, embodying the past as well as the future of the country. The food scene is also astonishing, as Melbourne is proud to be one of the vegan capitals of the world. Fine dining here is perfectly suitable for both meat-eaters and plant-based visitors. It also offers a diverse range of bars and pubs in its downtown.
The public transport system in Melbourne is the most iconic in Australia and beyond. The city’s tram system is the world’s longest, highlighting the European influence on its early development. The “art tram project” is further showcasing the cultural living of the city. Since the 1970s, tram cars on the city’s network have been decorated by world-famous as well as local artists, running through the city.
Are Australian cities worth a visit?
Most certainly yes! Australian wildlife is a global treasure and it will keep attracting bigger numbers of visitors every year. However, the country also has a lot to offer in its cities and they should not be left without recognition. Besides the two cities discussed in detail above, others across the country, more significantly in the south-east, offer varying experiences that can not be seen elsewhere around the world.