Australia is a huge country—almost the same size as the whole of Europe. So when it comes to a getaway that captures the best of the country, a bit of planning—and a Hertz rental car—goes a long way. That’s why we’ve put together this simple itinerary, giving you a one-month taste of this truly unique country, covering world-class cities, one-of-a-kind nature, and everything in between. Let’s begin!
Week 1: Sydney & the Blue Mountains (5–7 Days)
Start in Australia’s largest city – Sydney. Known for its vibrant multicultural energy, world-famous bars and restaurants, and beaches. Stick around the centre and see the iconic Opera House, explore the winding streets of food-centric Surry Hills, and don’t forget the bustling Bondi Beach (or, for something more remote, Resolute Beach).
Next, take a two-hour drive to the Blue Mountains, where the dramatic cliffs, eucalyptus forests and hiking trails will offer a refreshing contrast from the fast-paced city.
Don’t miss Katoomba and the famous Three Sisters lookout. 
Week 2: South Coast & Melbourne (6–8 Days)
It’s time to head to Melbourne, Australia’s second largest city. But on the way, take the Grand Pacific Drive, stopping at Jervis Bay for picture-perfect white sand beaches (other worthwhile stops are Narooma and Eden).
Once you’re in Melbourne, stay in the centre of the CBD and spend your days wandering the busy streets and hidden laneways, hopping from one word-class coffee shop, restaurant or bar to another. For a more local adventure, head to nearby suburbs Brunswick Street, Fitzroy and Smith Street, Collingwood, and explore two ex-industrial areas that are now thriving with boutique stores and eateries.
Week 3: Great Ocean Road & Adelaide (5–7 Days)
Next stop, Adelaide—but not without seeing the appropriately-named Great Ocean Road first. This stretch of road will take you alongside the sweeping coastline, making it like a walk along the beach from the comfort of your car! If the weather calls for it, stop for a dip in Torquay or Lorne. And when it’s time for a massive change in scenery, head to the rainforest of the Great Otway National Park.
Once in Adelaide, you’ll embrace the shift in pace. Start in the heart of the city, where parklands circle the CBD and the cafes are buzzing along Rundle Street. Take a stroll through the Adelaide Central Market, one of the oldest and largest undercover markets in the Southern Hemisphere, packed with fresh produce, baked goods and multicultural eats.
If you’re serious about your wine, or just have a taste for adventure, spend a day or two exploring the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale, both less than an hour’s drive away and famous around the world for bold reds and rolling hills. (Just remember to have a designated driver if you plan on consuming alcohol.) 
Week 4: The Red Centre or Tropical North Queensland (5–7 Days)
Option 1: The Red Centre
It’s time to fly to the centre of the country—known as the Red Centre for reasons you’llimmediately understand once you arrive. Pick up a Hertz rental car from Alice Springs and take a drive to Uluru, the giant sandstone monolith that rises out of the desert. It’s an impressive sight, but also sacred to the Anagu people, the original inhabitants of the area. As you witness Uluru glow in the sunset, to the background sound of desert silence, you may begin to understand why.
Option 2: Tropical North Queensland
Next stop, up north, where the tropical landscape is a transformative change from the desert. Fly to Cairns, bring your swimwear, and head straight to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system. Whether you snorkel, dive, or relax on a reef cruise, the turquoise water, white sand, colourful marine life and sheer scale of the reef will send you home with a new perspective.
The adventure isn’t over yet. Back on land, explore the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. Drive through winding roads shaded by ancient trees, stop for a croc-spotting river cruise in Daintree Village, or walk among the treetops at the Mossman Gorge.
One Month, One Amazing Country
In four weeks, you can experience the variety of Australian landscape—coast, rainforest, desert and city. Of course, the full extent of this adventure can’t be achieved without a car, and a Hertz rental car makes the incredible achievable. Book your ride with ease, choose from a range of pick-up locations, and get ready to explore this massive yet undiscovered part of the world.
