Travelling is more popular than ever, so why not give your dad the gift of travel this Fathers Day? Pick up a rental car in one of Australia's top cities and see the sights on a quick road trip. Whether your dad is the adventurous kind, or the type who would prefer to relax and soak up the culture of a city, there is plenty on offer in Australia. Choose the perfect road trip for your dad from one of our itineraries:
There's plenty of exhilarating activities on offer in Cairns, so your dad will have plenty to choose from. With skydiving, bungy jumping and all manner of water sports - there is never a dull moment in Far North Queensland! With a rental car you can easily get around the city, and visit some of the popular sights.
Where to stay: There are lots of accommodation options in central Cairns, and most hotels offer parking. Stay near the esplanade for easy access to some of the best shopping and food in the city.
Getting there: Cairns is well-connected to most major Australian airports. There are also connections to Asia and New Zealand from the international terminal. The city is a four hour drive from Townsville.
Other stops: While exploring the Cairns region, make sure you leave a spare day to visit the magnificent Great Barrier Reef. If you've got the time, head north to visit Port Douglas and the Daintree Rainforest. The Atherton Tablelands is also well-worth the drive, with wildlife parks, lakes, waterfalls, unique small towns and some fantastic locally-produced food.
If your father is the type who prefers a quieter weekend exploring museums and galleries - Melbourne is the perfect choice. Not only is the city home to some of Australia's best art galleries, there are some unique laneways to explore each with their own distinct artistic flair. Make sure you visit Hosier Lane, one of Melbourne's most popular laneways.
Where to stay: For easy access to central Melbourne and some of the city's top attractions, consider staying at Southbank. There are also plenty of top restaurants in the area as well as easy access to Federation Square and the Arts Centre.
Getting there: Melbourne is just a short flight from Brisbane, Sydney, Hobart and Adelaide. It is also well connected to many international destinations, including a number of cities in New Zealand.
Other stops: You'll find plenty of things to see and do on a road trip in Melbourne. If you've got time, visit the suburb of Brighton and see the colourful beach, or head further south through the Mornington Peninsula. There are also plenty of great day trips from Melbourne, including the Yarra Valley and Phillip Island.
For a relaxing getaway, head to Adelaide and drive to the nearby Barossa Valley. Your dad can go wine-tasting at some of the best wineries in the country. The region is just a short drive from Adelaide, so you'll find it easier make your way around with a rental car.
Where to stay: There are plenty of accommodation options in Barossa Valley. However, if you'd prefer to stay in the city, you'll be close by the massive Rundle Mall and some of Adelaide's top attractions.
Getting there: The Barossa Valley is just an hour's drive from Adelaide using the M20 and Princes Highway. Visitors can easily reach Adelaide from all major Australian airports.
Other stops: There is more to discover in the Barossa Valley beyond the famous wineries. Visit unique attractions like the large Herbig Tree in Springton. Follow the heritage walks in Angaston to learn more about the history of the region. Of course, there are also lots of sights in Adelaide to keep you busy. Stop by the Botanic Gardens or drive to Glenelg Beach, one of the most popular local beaches in Adelaide.
