12 Remarkable Buildings in Australia to Add to Your Bucket List

Australia is home to some of the most diverse and stunning architecture in the world. From historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers, buildings in Australia reflect the nation’s rich cultural heritage, innovative spirit, and unique landscape.

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a curious traveler, there’s a building in every major city that offers something truly special.

In this guide, we’ll take you through 12 iconic buildings in Australia, highlighting what makes each one stand out.

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1. Sydney Opera House

Highlights

• Performing Arts Hub: Home to over 40 shows a week, from opera and theater to contemporary music and dance.

• Vivid Sydney: The sails become a canvas for dynamic projections during this annual light festival.

• Tours: Multiple tour options, including the Architectural Tour and Backstage Tour.

• Dining: Dine at Bennelong or Opera Kitchen with spectacular harbor views.

Architecture

• Danish architect Jørn Utzon designed the Sydney Opera House, the structure mimics a series of white sail-like shells.

• Incorporates modern expressionist design and pre-cast concrete panels.

• Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007.

Facilities

• Six performance venues.

• Multiple bars, restaurants, and retail outlets.

• Visitor Center with ticketing and gift shop.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms.

• Assistive hearing devices and guided tours with Auslan interpretation.

Costs Involved

• Entry to the forecourt is free.

• Tour prices range from AUD 43 to AUD 175, depending on the experience.

• Performance tickets vary.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney, NSW.

• Transport: Circular Quay Station (train, ferry, or bus), then a short walk.

2. Eureka Tower, Melbourne

Highlights

• Skydeck 88: The highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere.

• The Edge: A glass cube that slides out 3 meters from the building with a transparent floor.

• Virtual Reality Plunge Experience.

Architecture

• Designed by Fender Katsalidis Architects.

• 297.3 meters tall with 91 floors.

• The gold-plated crown represents the Victorian gold rush.

Facilities

• Café and souvenir shop at the Skydeck.

• Viewing binoculars and interactive displays.

• Event space for private functions.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible with lifts and ramps.

• Tactile indicators and audio guides are available.

Costs Involved

• General admission starts at AUD 25.

• The Edge experience is an additional AUD 12.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC.

• Transport: Flinders Street Station, then a 10-minute walk.

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3. Parliament House, Canberra

Highlights

• Public Galleries: Watch live parliamentary sessions.

• Guided Tours: Free daily tours showcasing Australia’s democratic processes.

• Rooftop Views: The Grassy roof offers panoramic views of Canberra.

Architecture

• Designed by Mitchell/Giurgola & Thorp.

• Built into Capitol Hill, symbolizing democratic government.

• Features a giant stainless steel flag mast.

Facilities

• Visitors Centre, café, gift shop.

• Exhibition spaces and interactive learning stations.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair-friendly throughout.

• Audio loops and Auslan-interpreted tours available.

Costs Involved

• Free entry and tours.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Parliament Dr, Canberra ACT.

• Transport: Buses from Civic Centre; ample parking on-site.

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4. Queen Victoria Building (QVB), Sydney

Highlights

• Shopping: Home to luxury brands, boutiques, and unique Australian products.

• Clocks: The Royal Clock and the Great Australian Clock are must-see attractions.

• Seasonal Decorations: Iconic for its Christmas tree reaching three stories high.

Architecture

• QVB was designed by George McRae in Romanesque Revival style.

• Features stained glass windows, grand staircases, and a central dome.

• Built in 1898 and restored in the 1980s.

Facilities

• Over 180 retail outlets.

• Cafés, tearooms, and bakeries.

• Restrooms are on every floor.

Accessibility

• Elevators and wheelchair access throughout.

• Assistance animals welcome.

Costs Involved

• Free to enter.

• Individual store prices vary.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 455 George St, Sydney NSW.

• Transport: Town Hall Station is directly connected via an underground walkway.

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5. Crown Towers, Melbourne

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crown_Towers

Highlights

• Luxury Stay: Crown Towers is one of the most prestigious hotels in Australia.

• Crown Spa: Offers holistic treatments and wellness experiences.

• Casino: Massive gaming floors and luxury lounges.

Architecture

• Modern glass facade with riverfront views.

• Interiors feature opulent marble and gold finishes.

• Designed to reflect five-star luxury and sophistication.

Facilities

• 482 rooms and suites.

• Infinity pool, fitness center, multiple restaurants.

• Direct connection to Crown Entertainment Complex.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair-accessible rooms and facilities.

• Visual alert systems are available upon request.

Costs Involved

• Rooms start from AUD 400 per night.

• Spa and dining vary by experience.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC.

• Transport: Trams 12, 96, and 109 stop at Clarendon Street.

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6. Q1 Tower, Gold Coast

Highlights

• SkyPoint Observation Deck: 230m above sea level with 360° views.

• SkyPoint Climb: Outdoor adventure for thrill-seekers.

• Sunset Sessions: Live music and cocktails every weekend.

Architecture

• Designed by Sunland Group, inspired by the Sydney 2000 Olympic torch.

• 322.5 meters tall – Australia’s tallest building.

• Features a spire that lights up at night.

Facilities

• Restaurant and bar at the top.

• Retail and photo experience on arrival.

• Secure lockers and a souvenir shop.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible observation deck.

• Assistance is available at entry.

Costs Involved

• SkyPoint entry from AUD 27.

• SkyClimb costs about AUD 75.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 9 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD.

• Transport: Light rail to Surfers Paradise Station.

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7. Flinders Street Station, Melbourne

Highlights

• Historic Railway Hub: Australia’s first city railway station, operating since 1854.

• Iconic Clocks: Popular meeting point under the row of station clocks.

• Photography Hotspot.

Architecture

• Edwardian Baroque style.

• Distinctive yellow facade and green dome.

• Features detailed stained glass and metalwork.

Facilities

• Dozens of platforms and eateries.

• Newsagents and cafes inside.

Accessibility

• Ramps and accessible toilets.

• Elevators to major platforms.

Costs Involved

• Free to enter.

• Train ticket costs vary by destination.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Swanston St & Flinders St, Melbourne VIC.

• Transport: All trams and trains connect here.

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8. Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Art_Gallery_of_New_South_Wales

Highlights

• Expansive Collection: From Aboriginal art to modern masterpieces.

• Exhibitions & Events: Regular rotating international exhibitions.

• The Domain and Royal Botanic Garden: Right next door.

Architecture

• Original building by Walter Liberty Vernon.

• The recent expansion of the Art Gallery includes the Sydney Modern Project with sleek, minimalist lines.

• Merges neoclassical and modern aesthetics.

Facilities

• Library, restaurant, café, and shop.

• Auditorium and education center.

Accessibility

• Fully wheelchair accessible.

• Sensory maps and relaxed sessions offered.

Costs Involved

• Entry is free.

• Special exhibitions may require tickets (AUD 20–30).

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW.

• Transport: St. James Station, then a 10-minute walk.

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9. Federation Square, Melbourne

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federation_Square

Highlights

• Cultural Precinct: Includes ACMI, Koorie Heritage Trust, and more.

• Public Events: Live screenings, markets, and performances.

Architecture

• Designed by Lab Architecture Studio.

• Features fractured geometries and zinc, glass, and sandstone materials.

• Modern deconstructivist style.

Facilities

• Restaurants, bars, and free Wi-Fi.

• Information center and public restrooms.

Accessibility

• Step-free access to all venues.

• Hearing loops and wheelchair hire are available.

Costs Involved

• Free entry to the square and the exhibitions.

• Costs apply to restaurants and special events.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Swanston St & Flinders St, Melbourne VIC.

• Transport: Directly opposite Flinders Street Station.

10. Adelaide Oval, Adelaide

Highlights

• Cricket & AFL Hub: Hosts international cricket and Australian Rules football.

• RoofClimb Experience: Guided climb across the stadium roof for panoramic city views.

• Heritage Tours: Learn about the Oval’s 150+ years of sporting history.

Architecture

• The original oval opened in 1871, and modern redevelopment was completed in 2014.

• Blend of old grandstands with futuristic roofing and LED features.

• Maintains the historic scoreboard and Moreton Bay fig trees.

Facilities

• Seating for 53,000 people.

• Multiple restaurants and function rooms.

• On-site museum and retail outlets.

Accessibility

• Ramps, elevators, and accessible seating.

• Companion card program supported.

Costs Involved

• Entry varies based on events.

• RoofClimb from AUD 119.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: War Memorial Drive, North Adelaide, SA.

• Transport: 10-minute walk from Adelaide Railway Station.

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11. State Library of Victoria, Melbourne

Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_Library_Victoria

Highlights

• La Trobe Reading Room: An Iconic octagonal space under a grand dome.

• Exhibitions: Rotating displays from Australia’s literary and historical treasures.

• Free Public Events.

Architecture

• Built in 1856, it combines classical and Victorian styles.

• The central dome was completed in 1913, one of the world’s first reinforced concrete domes.

• Renovated to mix heritage elements with digital innovations.

Facilities

• Free Wi-Fi, reading areas, and study zones.

• Kids’ play area and café.

• Archive services and heritage collections.

Accessibility

• Step-free access, hearing loops, quiet spaces.

• Guided sensory-friendly tours are available.

Costs Involved

• Free entry.

• Paid workshops and venue hire options.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 328 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC.

• Transport: Melbourne Central Station, right across the street.

12. The Gabba, Brisbane

Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Gabba

Highlights

• Sports Venue: Hosts cricket, AFL, and concerts.

• Upcoming Olympics Site: Will be upgraded for the 2032 Olympic Games.

• Gabba Tours: Explore player areas, media boxes, and history displays.

Architecture

• First opened in 1895, the current structure was shaped by 1990s redevelopment.

• Circular design with a 42,000 capacity.

• Upgrades will include sustainable features and accessibility innovations.

Facilities

• Food courts, merchandise shops, and corporate boxes.

• An on-site museum about Queensland sport.

Accessibility

• Accessible seating and companion support.

• Lifts, hearing loops, and vision support features are available.

Costs Involved

• Match tickets start from AUD 20.

• Tours from AUD 15.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Vulture St, Woolloongabba QLD.

• Transport: Busway at Woolloongabba station, directly adjacent to the venue.

FAQs

1. What is the most famous building in Australia?

The Sydney Opera House is the most iconic and globally recognized building in Australia, known for its unique sail-like architecture.

2. Are observation decks in buildings like Q1 or Eureka Tower worth visiting?

Yes! Both offer stunning panoramic views, with unique features like glass floors (The Edge at Eureka) and outdoor climbs (SkyPoint Climb at Q1).

3. Which buildings in Australia are best for families with kids?

The State Library of Victoria, Queen Victoria Building, and Art Gallery of NSW offer family-friendly exhibits and activities.

4. Are these buildings in Australia accessible for people with disabilities?

Absolutely. Most major buildings like the Sydney Opera House, Parliament House, and Eureka Tower are fully accessible with ramps, lifts, and services for vision/hearing impaired visitors.

5. What’s the best time to visit these landmarks?

Late spring to early autumn (October to April) offers the best weather. For buildings like Eureka Tower, visit just before sunset for the best views.

6. Can I visit these buildings in Australia for free?

Many, like the Parliament House, State Library, and Art Gallery of NSW, offer free entry, though special tours or exhibitions may carry a charge.