Sydney blitzes TripAdvisor’s travellers choice awards

The battle for best Aussie city is often a fierce one, particularly between Melbourne and Sydney, who’s occupants love to bicker over whose home is the most hip.

Well, at least for today, the argument can be put to rest.

Now we clearly know who the real winner is.

Sorry, Melbournites.

TripAdvisor has announced its Traveller’s Choice awards, which places Sydney in the top spot for Australia and the South Pacific!

Killing it Sydney! The overall global winner was Paris, followed by London, Rome and Bali.

But let’s stay local and let Sydney have its moment, shall we?

Here are the Traveller’s Choice awards for Australian destinations:

1. Sydney

Home to the world’s largest natural harbour and Traveller’s Choice beaches Manly and Bondi, Sydney is like no other.

The cosmopolitan city is brimming with activities ranging from cultural, nature, arts and gastronomy. Travellers can marvel the architecture of the Sydney Opera House, check out the food scene at Darling Harbour or take a stroll from Bondi to Congee along the coastline.

Enjoy a good night’s rest at Ovolo Woolloomooloo for accommodation close to the city’s best waterfront restaurants and pubs.

2. Gold Coast 

Set against spectacular skyscrapers, the Gold Coast enjoys balmy weather, 52km of pristine sand and 300 days of sun.

The city is great for nature lovers with national parks such as Burleigh Heads and Springbrook, and beaches such as Surfer’s Paradise.

Book a tour at SkyPoint Climb for a 270-metres ascend up Q1 Resort Building and be rewarded by the panoramic view of Gold Coast and beyond.

Complete the trip with an ocean-viewing room at Peppers Soul.

3. Melbourne 

Melbourne may come across as a little laid-back but it is also known for its vibrant cafés, popular arts scene, massive sports venues and historic memorial sites.

Visit the Shrine of Remembrance, a memorial of citizens who served in global conflicts throughout its history or head to Melbourne Cricket Ground to learn about the rich Australian sporting history at the nation’s largest stadium.

Stay at the centrally located The Langham, Melbourne, situated on the shores of the Yarra River.

4. Brisbane

Brisbane is Queensland’s cosmopolitan capital that combines arts, culture and plenty of natural attractions.

Board the CityHopper ferry to enjoy an overall view of the main city and the inner city suburbs along the Brisbane River for free.

Nature-lovers can visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary  where over 100 species of Australian native animals roam in a natural bush setting or Roma Street Parkland for scenic picnics in heart of the city.

After a day of exploration, return to The New Inchcolm Hotel & Suites Brisbane, a boutique hotel built within a heritage building.

5. Hobart

Perched on Tasmania’s south-eastern coast, Hobart offers fascinating history, thick forested mountains and gourmet experiences.

The city is nestled on the foothills of Mount Wellington where travellers can climb up for a panoramic view of Hobart and the Tasmanian peninsula.

Visitors can also head to Salamanca Market, the city’s most visited outdoor market where hundreds of stallholders sell locally made products every Saturday at the sandstone Salamanca Place.

Travellers can check-in to a harbour view room looking over the Constitution Dock and the Derwent Rivera at Grand Chancellor Hotel Hobart.

6. Perth 

Perth appeals to both locals and visitors thanks to its metropolitan attractions amidst relaxed surroundings.

Travellers can take a complimentary bus service from the city centre to the Kings Park & Botanic Garden to discover unique Australian floras and capture city views from various vantage points.

Also close by is Kings Park War MemorialKings Park War Memorial, a fitting tribute for Australian servicemen and women who have served in all wars and conflicts in which the nation has been involved.

Relive the past with a stay at COMO the Treasury, a beautifully restored hotel in a 19th-century state building.

7. Adelaide 

Once known as the “City of Churches”, Adelaide has since transformed to an energetic city with plenty of shopping, art events, outdoor activities and some of Australia’s best café strips.

With more than 145 years of history, travellers can engage in food therapy at Adelaide Central Market for a wide range of fresh produce alongside with some of Adelaide’s most popular cafes and eateries.

For accommodation right smack in the city centre, travellers can make a beeline for the Mayfair Hotel.

8. Cairns

Whilst Cairns is known as the gateway to world heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, and Daintree National Park, travellers also flock to the city for fun under the sun and for its booming nightlife and outdoor activities such as ATVs amid a lively, tropical setting.

Travellers can stay at Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut, suitable for families thanks to amenities such as a splash pool and adult spa.

9. Port Douglas

The upscale resort town of Port Douglas is another great base for exploring nearby gems such as the Great Barrier Reef including colourful reef sites Opal and Agincourt.

On Sundays, travellers can drop by the Sunday Market Port Douglas which offers an assortment of items from handmade souvenirs to local produce. Rest at the award-winning and budget-friendly property Lazy Lizard Motor Inn.

10. Noosa

Known for a world-famous surf beach and a great selection of boutique shopping and fine dining options, the sub-tropical town of Noosa enjoys year-round warm weather.

Soak in amazing views on a coastal walk at the Noosa National Park whilst looking out for wildlife such sea dolphins, whales, wild koalas and monitor lizards.

With amenities such as water slides and a games room, families with kids will enjoy staying at RACV Noosa Resort.