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au family casuarissen jimmy nelson family best time header
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au northern territory wayoutback campfire personal landing page family best travel time header
au beach christmas family best time header
au family casuarissen jimmy nelson family best time header
au older kids sitting on rocks family best time header
au northern territory wayoutback campfire personal landing page family best travel time header
Bespoke family journeys down under

Best time to visit Australia for families

Australia is suitable at any time of the year. However, depending on the age of your kids will determine the best travel time. Especially if your kids are at school and you can only travel during the school holidays. No matter what your family situation is, we will ensure that you travel to Australia at the best possible time.

Best travel time for families with school-aged children

Travelling with school-aged kids means you will probably need to travel during the school holidays. And, if you are travelling as far as Australia, you’ll want to travel for a minimum of three weeks to get the most out of your trip. This makes travelling during your summer holidays (winter in Australia) the best option.

Just because it is ‘winter time’ in Australia, does not mean you miss out on a summer experience. In fact, in the northern part of the country, between May and October, it is the best time to travel. The temperatures are on average 26 degrees. A tropical paradise waiting to be discovered.

Are your kids no longer at school?

If you are a family without school holiday restrictions, you can visit Australia when you like. Any time of the year, there are many routes to be explored. The best way to decide is based on the wishes of you and your family. We would love to meet you and discuss the possibilities further.

Back to Australia with your family
A child playing with a kangaroo
Australia is an ideal destination for a family holiday, anytime of the year
© TravelEssence

6 of our favourite regions for families

North Queensland

An absolute tropical paradise, featuring ancient rainforests, coral reef, gorges, sugar cane fields, colourful small towns and more. The best time to visit is between May and October. With an average temperature of 25 - 30 degrees, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to keep the whole family entertained.

With stunning family-friendly homes to stay in, you can fully indulge as a family. Spend your day's horseback riding, snorkelling, rafting, going on a boat tour, cycling, sailing. And more. An ideal destination for families who would like to travel during the European summer holidays (from July - August).

Admire clown fish from a glass bottom boat
© TravelEssence

"The best time to visit the northern part of the East Coast of Australia is from May to October. It is the perfect time to enjoy the Aussie beach vibes."

Sylvia, Travel specialist
Snorkel in the clear waters of North Queensland
Six of the world's 7 species of marine turtle can be found in Australian waters
Beach Daintree | Australia holiday
The Daintree Rainforest is 1,200 square kilometres in size
Be enchanted by one of the seven wonders of the world

Sydney

Be devoured by the glamour and grandness of Sydney. The largest city of Australia, located in New South Wales which is oozing with multiculturalism. This refined destination is rich with charisma and historical value, with an array of things to do and see!

The best time to visit is between September through November and March to May. These are the shoulders seasons that offer great temperatures and fewer tourists than the high season. September is the driest month and October is usually warm enough to enjoy the beach with an average temperature of 22- 14 degrees.

Did you know? Sydney is not the capital of Australia

Explore the city by bike or on foot, take a boat or a train, it’s up to you! Be charmed by the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Go neighbourhood hopping and uncover the unique individual character of each district. Pop into the vibrant Surry Hills or visit the eccentric Newtown, an alternative haven, or visit colourful art galleries in Chippendale.

This city is a shopping haven, full of lively bars and high-end restaurants. Feel the beach vibes and discover the sunny shores of Bondi, Coogee or Manly. Nearby, you can visit the stunning wine region, Hunter Valley or the mysterious Blue Mountains.

Kids learning how to surf | Australia family holiday
Spend your days by the beach
Explore Sydney harbour | Australia holiday
Sail around the Sydney Harbour Bridge
© TravelEssence

Brisbane and surrounds

Brisbane, the capital of sunny Queensland is an ideal destination, any time of the year. With average temperatures ranging from 35 - 20 degrees. This laid-back city is a stranger to cold winters. And with plenty of sunshine, there are so many things to do. Cycle. Visit a koala sanctuary. Swim at Southbank. Shop. Discover the coffee culture. And more.

Cycle through exciting Brisbane | Australia kids holiday
Explore Brisbane by bike
Koala bear Magnetic Island | Australia holiday
Have close encounters with Australian wildlife
© TravelEssence
Beach in Brisbane | Australia holiday
Take a cooling dip at Southbank

The Red Centre

We recommend visiting the Red Centre for four to seven days to truly experience the beating heart of Australia. The best time to visit is between May and September. During this period the days are much cooler and more bearable than in summer. Also, a great time to travel if you have school-aged children.

Here there are so many fascinating things to explore, not only Uluru. But of course, we recommend experiencing the glory of watching the sunset and rise over this beautiful monolith. However, also be sure to stop by the Olga’s and King Canyon. And along the way, immerse yourselves in the oldest culture in the world.

Red center | Australia kids holiday
Discover timeless landscapes
Discover the Outback | Australia kids holiday
Experience a sunset over Uluru
Take a walk and discover The Olgas

Northern Territory

Be charmed by Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory and the gateway to exploring the Top End of Australia. This friendly small town is the perfect base to discover Litchfield and Kakadu National Park. An oasis that boasts a tropical climate with two seasons (wet and dry). The best time to visit is between May and September.

Together as a family - Discover termite hills that are taller than you. Visit national parks. See an abundance of wildlife. Learn about Indigenous culture. Hike through nature. Go canoeing. Birdwatch. Take a boat trip. Marvel at gorges. Swim in natural swimming holes. Join a tour to Arnhemland. Camp under the stars. And more.

Authentic Darwin | Australia cultural holiday
Admire ancient rock paintings
Discover the Outback | Australia active holiday
Get "off the beaten" track together in the Red Centre

The route between Melbourne and Adelaide

This route is best to do between October - April. This is a very diverse route with plenty of opportunities to experience authentic Australia together with your family. Along the way, you will discover the iconic Great Ocean Road, islands, vineyards, wildlife, outback, national parks, vibrant cities and more. Plus, each drive is only two-four hours, making it ideal for families.

"Nearby Melbourne, you'll find amazing wildlife at Wilsons Promontory National Park."

Bart, Travel specialist
Gorgeous kangaroo | Australia wildlife
At Wilsons Promontory National Park, you will find no less than 50,000 hectares of pure nature
© TravelEssence

Would you like to learn more about the best travel times for families? We travel to Australia regularly and would love to share our local knowledge with you.

Melbourne street art | Australia holiday
Melbourne is one of the world's most livable cities
Explore the secrets of Melbourne | Australia holiday
Be entertained by the music scene in Melbourne

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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.