This past summer I spent two weeks down in Australia. I visited Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. Each city had its own unique characteristics and highlights. There was so much to love about each region. After much thought between the many locations within each city, I compiled a list of places that will make you gasp or lost in awe.

1. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane

Lone Pine is one of the few places in Australia where visitors can cuddle a koala. (Holding the fuzzy marsupial is free but a professional photo is $18 AUD.) Despite its name, the sanctuary also houses a number of other animals including but not limited to: wombats, kangaroos, and avians. There is also an open area where visitors can interact with kangaroos and joeys. A tip for the most optimal picture opportunity is to have kibble in one hand and allow for the roo to nibble away. This method also works for gentle pats. Your breath will be stolen by the high accumulation of cuteness at one location.

2. Southbank in Melbourne

As an inner urban neighborhood, Southbank holds a number of shops and restaurants along with the Crown Casino beside the Yarra River. The casino also has eight towers dubbed as the Gas Brigades. Starting in the evening, specific hours depending on the month, the towers erupt with fireballs that light up the night sky. Your breath will escape in shivers and white wisps as you take in your surroundings.

3. State Library of Victoria in Melbourne

One of the many notable features of the State Library include the grand study halls. The one in the picture features an octagon shaped room, decked out with walls of bookshelves, that has an overarching dome. Eight tables with singular study spaces point toward a center while additional tables are scattered throughout the room. The library also hosts many exhibits that range from Ned Kelly’s historical artifacts to a peculiar life-like model. The beauty of the interior architecture or the tingling sensation from the life-like models will take your breath away.

4. Circular Quay to Manly Ferry in Sydney

For about $7 AUD visitors can take a thirty minute ferry from Circular Quay to the wharf of Manly. This ride offers a view of the other side of the Sydney Opera House and the expansive deep blue waters. Your breath will hitch at the sights or when the ferry lurches upon the rising and crashing waves.

5. The Rocks in Sydney

Despite its urban location, The Rocks is also considered as a historical area. The brick structures and cobblestone streets are reminiscent of Australia’s colonial period. Embedded within the neighborhood is Observatory Hill, a hill that offers a view of the Sydney Harbor Bridge without the crowds. The hill also has an observatory that allows visitors to observe the stars and planets through the oldest telescope in Australia that is in regular use. A full exploration of The Rocks will have you panting due to the amount of hills and steps.

6. University of Sydney in Sydney

A twenty minute walk from the train station stands the University of Sydney with its buildings that will make visitors feel as if they are in their favorite magical fantasy world. When it is not crowded, the Quadrangle serves for the perfect spot to sit and recollect oneself. Visually, there is the perpetual enchanting sky that varies in shades and the jacaranda that blossoms with purple hues in the right season. Overhead, there are drifting tunes from piano practice sessions or chimes from the university carillon. The amount of stairs and views throughout the campus will leave you slowing to catch your breath.