Inshorts
Explore Asia easily with short flights from Australia
Ideal first-time Asia travel destinations for Australians
Safe, budget-friendly, and visa-free options available
Top Asian destinations offer culture, adventure, and relaxation
Plan trips without breaking the bank or dealing with complex visas
Asia is one of the most exciting continents for first-time travellers from Australia. With vibrant cities, stunning beaches, rich culture, and mouth-watering food, the region offers something for every kind of traveller.
Asia encompasses diverse climates and environments, from lush tropical rainforests and snowy slopes to sparkling golden beaches, turquoise waters, mountainside hot springs, and mountain scenery. Whether you seek the laid back charm of small villages or the buzz of major cities, Asia offers the perfect mix of experiences for every traveller.
If you’re searching for budget-friendly international trips for Australians, Asia stands out with its cheap international flights from Australia, including popular flights to Bali and flights to Singapore, making it easy and affordable to explore.
1. Thailand – A Classic Choice for First-Time Asia Travel
Thailand is one of the best destinations and a perfect destination for first-time Asia travel for Australians. It offers a mix of bustling cities, peaceful beaches, ancient temples, and incredible food. Whether you want adventure or relaxation, Thailand makes it easy for first-time travellers to explore.
Short flights from Australia to Bangkok take around 8–9 hours
Top destinations include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui
Affordable street food, hostels, and budget hotels make it budget-friendly
Friendly locals and tourist-friendly infrastructure make it safe for first-time travellers
Popular activities include visiting ancient temples, exploring night markets, enjoying beaches, taking cooking classes, and rock climbing in Krabi’s famous limestone karsts
Thailand is a family holiday friendly destination, with activities and attractions such as theme parks, gardens, beaches, and nature reserves suitable for children and families
Thailand is a great starting point for a big trip through Southeast Asia due to its accessibility and diverse attractions
2. Singapore – Easy and Convenient Travel
Singapore is a city-state perfect for travellers who want convenience and modern facilities. It’s small, clean, and easy to navigate, making it an accessible destination ideal for first-time Asia travel from Australia. Even first-time visitors can comfortably explore the city’s main attractions in a few days.
Direct flights from Sydney take about 8 hours
Must-visit places include Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa Island, and Gardens by the Bay
Singapore is highly family friendly, with attractions like parks, nature reserves, and hawker centers that are great for children and families
The city-state is recognized for its modern architecture, exceptional cleanliness, and a vibrant food scene, especially at its famous hawker centers offering great food
Low crime rate and English widely spoken make it safe and easy for first-time travellers
Affordable public transport and food courts keep it budget-friendly
Activities include exploring vibrant neighborhoods, shopping, visiting the zoo, or taking a river cruise
Flights to Singapore are among the most popular cheap international flights from Australia, making it an ideal gateway for exploring Asia
3. Malaysia – Culture and Nature Combined— One of the Best Destinations
Malaysia is an exciting first-time Asia travel destination for Australians because it combines city life, nature, and culture, and is renowned for its multicultural heritage. You can explore modern cities one day and tropical islands the next. It’s also a very affordable option for budget-conscious travellers.
Top destinations include Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi
The eastern state of Sabah in Borneo is a standout for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering wildlife encounters, eco-tourism, and outdoor activities including zip lines
Malaysia is a family holiday friendly destination, with attractions, parks, beaches, and excursions suitable for children and families
Malaysia is home to a mix of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and various minorities, making it a vibrant and diverse country to explore with influences of colonial architecture and french colonial architecture
Australians can stay visa-free for up to 90 days
Budget-friendly accommodation, street food, and public transport make it accessible
Activities include exploring colonial architecture, tropical islands, and cultural heritage
4. Indonesia – Beaches and Adventure
Indonesia, an island nation in the Pacific islands region, is ideal for Australians seeking adventure, tropical escapes, and cultural experiences. Renowned for its natural beauty, Indonesia’s islands offer a mix of beaches, volcanoes, temples, and mountain scenery, perfect for first-time travellers. Bali, in particular, is famous for being both easy to reach and highly accommodating for tourists.
Popular destinations include Bali, Jakarta, and Yogyakarta
Indonesia is a family holiday friendly destination, with attractions, parks, and beaches suitable for children and families
Indonesia offers diverse cultural experiences and natural beauty, including stunning beaches, volcanoes, and diverse wildlife
With over 17,000 islands to explore, Indonesia is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and warm hospitality
Australians can enter visa-free for up to 30 days
Budget-friendly options for accommodation, food, and activities
Activities include surfing, trekking volcanoes, temple visits, and relaxing on pristine beaches
Flights to Bali are among the most sought-after cheap international flights from Australia, making Indonesia an accessible destination
5. Vietnam – Hidden Gems and Food Delights
Vietnam is a vibrant culture destination that is both family friendly and ideal for first-time travellers looking for scenic beauty, history, and local cuisine. Cities and towns are easy to explore, and the country is very welcoming to visitors. It’s also affordable, making it a perfect choice for Australians on a budget.
Flights from Sydney or Melbourne take around 8–10 hours
Friendly locals and tourist-friendly cities make it safe for first-time travellers
Cheap street food, hostels, and local tours make it budget-friendly
Vietnam is famous for its bustling markets and delicious food, offering an authentic sensory experience for visitors
Must-do activities include exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter, cruising Halong Bay with its limestone karsts, and visiting the Mekong River Delta
Sapa’s rice terraces in northern Vietnam are a scenic highlight, showcasing unique agricultural landscapes and local traditions
Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit ancient city, known for its cultural attractions, entertainment, and affordability
Central Vietnam is a region worth exploring, with accessible scenic attractions and family-friendly destinations
6. Cambodia – Ancient Wonders and Laid Back Charm
Cambodia is home to Angkor Wat, one of the largest ancient temple complexes in the world, making it a perfect destination for travellers seeking history and culture. The country has a laid back charm with few places as spectacular as the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Explore ancient temples and enjoy the warm glow of sunsets over Angkor Wat
Visit the Mekong River and experience local life along its banks
Cambodia offers affordable accommodation and street food, making it budget-friendly
The best time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season from November to February
Cambodia is a family holiday friendly destination, with attractions and activities suitable for children and families
7. Sri Lanka – Diverse Landscapes and Rich Culture
Sri Lanka, located in South Asia, offers mountain scenery, pristine beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. It is a great destination for those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Visit ancient cities, tea plantations, and enjoy the turquoise waters of its beaches
The best time to visit Sri Lanka is from December to March during the dry season
Sri Lanka is a family holiday friendly destination, suitable for travellers of all ages
8. India and North India – Cultural Richness and Mountain Scenery
India is a vast and diverse country in South Asia, offering everything from bustling cities to serene mountain scenery. North India, in particular, is known for its rich history, ancient cities, and cultural experiences.
Explore the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s pink city, and the Himalayan foothills
The best time to visit north India is during the dry season and spring, avoiding the summer and rainy season
India is a perfect trip destination for travellers seeking culture, history, and great food
Many travellers combine India with visits to neighbouring countries like Nepal and Sri Lanka for a comprehensive South Asia experience
9. South Korea – Modern Cities and Natural Beauty
South Korea is an accessible destination with a mix of modern cities, ancient palaces, and beautiful natural landscapes. It offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Visit Seoul’s vibrant neighborhoods, cherry blossoms in spring, and scenic mountain areas
South Korea is family holiday friendly, with attractions suitable for all ages
The best time to visit is during spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for the warm glow of fall foliage
FAQs
Which Asian countries are easiest for Australians to visit?
Countries like Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, India, and South Korea are easy to visit with visa-free options and short flights.
Are these Asian countries safe for first-time travellers?
Yes, destinations like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and South Korea are tourist-friendly and have low crime rates.
Can I travel to Asia on a budget from Australia?
Absolutely. Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Malaysia are very budget-friendly with cheap food, accommodation, and transport.
How long do flights from Australia to Asia usually take?
Most flights to Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam take 8–10 hours from major Australian cities.
Do Australians need a visa to travel to these countries?
Most first-time Asia travel destinations like Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam allow Australians to enter visa-free for short stays.
For booking your next adventure, consider using platforms like BookMyTrip to find the best deals on cheap international flights from Australia, including popular flights to Bali and flights to Singapore, helping you plan budget-friendly international trips for Australians with ease.
