Over 120,000 people rated these as Australia's best attractions

These iconic spots have captured the hearts (and search histories) of locals and tourists alike.

For two decades, Google Maps has been helping Aussies navigate the country, discover hidden gems and leave their mark through reviews. Now, as the platform celebrates its 20th anniversary, it has revealed the most-reviewed visitor attractions in Australia – and some of the results might surprise you.

1. Darling Harbour, Sydney, NSW

Darling Harbour drone shot — Darling Harbour never fails to impress. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sydney’s Darling Harbour takes the top spot as Australia’s most-reviewed attraction with over 58,000 reviews and a 4.64-star rating, and it’s easy to see why. This vibrant waterfront precinct is packed with world-class dining, family-friendly activities and some of the city’s best views. Whether you’re exploring the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, staying at one of the luxury hotels or enjoying a drink with a harbourside sunset, this Sydney staple never fails to impress.

2. Scenic World, Katoomba, NSW

Scenic World railway in lush greenery — Scenic World is home to the world’s steepest railway. (Image: Scenic World)

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Blue Mountains, Scenic World is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. With more than 20,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this iconic attraction is home to the world’s steepest railway and has lush bushwalks nearby.

3. Elizabeth Quay, Perth, WA

Elizabeth Quay drone shot — Elizabeth Quay is a vibrant hub in the heart of Perth. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

A jewel on Perth’s waterfront, Elizabeth Quay has become a favourite among locals and visitors, amassing over 19,000 reviews with a 4.52-star rating. This lively precinct blends modern architecture with scenic river views, offering everything from public art installations and dining hotspots to ferry rides along the Swan River. Catch the sunset, stroll along the promenade or hop on a river cruise; Elizabeth Quay is a vibrant hub of activity in the heart of the city.

4. Busselton Jetty, Busselton, WA

Busselton Jetty at sunrise — The longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere is a great spot for a nature show. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Stretching an impressive 1.8 kilometres over Geographe Bay, Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere – and one of the most beloved. Boasting over 13,000 reviews and a 4.61-star rating, this historic attraction invites visitors to take a leisurely train ride to the end, where an underwater observatory reveals the vibrant marine life beneath the waves.

5. Brighton Bathing Boxes, Brighton, Vic

Family playing beach cricket on Brighton Beach in front of Brighton Bathing Boxes — Brighton Bathing Boxes have been drawing crowds for over a century. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With their rainbow-coloured facades and postcard-perfect setting, the Brighton Bathing Boxes on Brighton Beach are one of Melbourne’s most photographed landmarks. With over 10,000 reviews and a 4.41-star rating, these 82 heritage-listed beach huts have been drawing crowds for over a century. A visit here isn’t just about snapping the perfect Insta pic – it’s also a chance to soak in stunning bay views, take a dip in the cool waters and experience a piece of Melbourne’s coastal history.

Other most-reviewed spots that Aussies love

While visitor attractions dominate the rankings, Google Maps’ data also revealed the most-reviewed spots in other categories.

Park: Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Perth, WA

Museum: Melbourne Museum, Melbourne, Vic

Restaurant: Dosa Hut Indian Restaurant, Harris Park, NSW

Cafe: Andonis Cafe & Bar, Yeerongpilly, Qld

Fish and chips shop: Charis Seafoods, Labrador, Qld

Ice cream shop: Cow & The Moon, Enmore, NSW

Vintage clothing store: Retropolis, Preston, Vic

Did your favourite make the list?

Explore some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines on this epic route.

This scenic, 1800-kilometre Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip takes in some of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the wildlife on Bribie Island to the rainforests of Far North Queensland. Our advice? Slow it down, take your time and really get to know this part of Australia.

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

Wake up in the luxurious Sofitel Brisbane Central , enjoy a hot buffet breakfast and a swim in the outdoor pool before hitting the road to travel north. Take the exit to Bribie Island to view the abundant wildlife.

aerial view of bribie island — Enjoy the beauty and animals of Bribie Island. (Image: TEQ)

In the afternoon, check into Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas hidden near Noosa National Park and spend the afternoon relaxing at the luxury Aqua Day Spa. Daredevils can book a seat on an Ocean View Helicopters tour and experience the adrenaline of exploring the Glasshouse Mountains from the air.

Before dinner, head to the Original Eumundi Markets just 25 minutes away or explore the nearby trails in the national park. For dinner, book a table at Park & Cove located just near your hotel and feast on a locally-sourced menu that changes with the seasons.

table spread at Park & Cove Novotel Sunshine Coast — Refuel at Park & Cove.

Day 2: Noosa to Bundaberg

Wake up to sounds of the rainforest outside your window and take the opportunity for a quick swim before you dive into a freshly cooked buffet breakfast at Park & Cove. After breakfast and an expertly brewed coffee, stroll down the hill and spend the morning shopping along Hastings Street in the various boutiques, or hire a kayak or surfboard and conquer the waves.

After lunch, head north for the three-hour drive to historic Bundaberg . If you feel like feeding a kangaroo or wallaby, visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary . Once in Bundy, head to Spitter’s Farm just outside of town. This 160-acre property offers a unique experience in their deluxe glamping safari tents, where you can listen to the cows mooing as the sun sets.

baby kangaroo at australian wildlife Sanctuary — Say hello to the adorable creatures of Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Jewels Lynch)

Day 3: Bundaberg to Rockhampton

Before getting back on the road, take time to visit the many museums, and, of course, the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour. Then head to the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton.

Although, ‘Rocky’ is surrounded by beef cattle farms, your first stop should be to the impressive Rockhampton Museum of Art , which features an art collection valued at over $16 million. Rest your head at the centrally-located Mercure Rockhampton overlooking the mighty Fitzroy River. Grab a quick swim in their outdoor pool before enjoying a steak at their in-house restaurant.

Day 4: Rockhampton to Mackay

Grab a strong coffee at your hotel and drive the short distance to the nearby Capricorn Caves for a morning tour of these natural limestone beauties. Then hit the road for the four-hour drive to Mackay.

Reward yourself with a swim in the large, resort-style pool at the Mantra Mackay . Overlooking the marina, it’s the perfect location from which to explore the city, before enjoying a sundowner and dinner at the popular Latitude 21 on the hotel terrace.

woman exploring the Capricorn Caves in queensland — Explore the Capricorn Caves. (Image: TEQ)

Day 6: Mackay to Townsville

Grab your breakfast to go, then head just out of town to Finch Hatton Gorge. Here, spend the morning ziplining 25 metres above the rainforest floor with Forest Flying . Head to Airlie Beach for lunch and a swim in the famous Airlie Beach Lagoon , before heading north to Townsville.

Hop on a 20-minute ferry – they leave regularly – and check into the stunning Peppers Blue on Blue Resort . Spend the evening swimming in their two pools with views across the private marina to Mount Cook National Park, before feasting on fresh seafood at their on-site restaurant, Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.

aerial view of beach at Airlie Beach queensland — Dive into the crystal clear waters around Airlie Beach. (Image: TEQ)

Day 7: Townsville to Cairns

After a morning swim on one of Magnetic Island’s beautiful beaches, hop back on the ferry and travel north to the sleepy Mission Beach for lunch. You’ll be sandwiched by rainforest on one side, and the beach on the other.

Continue on to Cairns and check in at the centrally-located Novotel Cairns Oasis, where the lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar alone is worth the visit. Or continue north for 25 minutes to the coastal village of Palm Cove.

Once there it’s a tough choice between the luxurious, five-star Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple, or the beautifully designed Peppers Beach Club and Spa Palm Cove , where the pool has its very own beach.

two people in deck chairs by Novotel Cairns Oasis' lagoon-style pool — Relax by Novotel Cairns Oasis’ lagoon-style pool.

Day 8: To Port Douglas

No matter where you spent the night, your journey to Port Douglas will be one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever experience. Following the coastline, travel past champagne-coloured beaches, offshore islands and submerged reefs, before rolling into town at Port Douglas.

Although you’ll be spoilt for choice with hotels, two of the best are Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, which is closer to town (think stunning pool and walking distance to Macrossan Street) and the famous, five-star Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa , located a little further down the beach. If the 3000-metre-squared lagoon-style pool isn’t enough at this hotel, you’ll also find the exclusive Vie Spa and popular restaurant, Aluco Restaurant & Bar , widely known as being one of the finest restaurants in Port Douglas.

aerial view of pool at Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple — Revive from road-tripping in one of the best pools in Port Douglas.

Start planning your Queensland adventure at all.com.

Over 120,000 people rated these as Australia’s best attractions