10 Aussie destinations that look like Europe

You may have heard of the classic 2003 film Under the Tuscan Sun (or even just seen the DVD case at your mum's). General premise: Being romantic under the thick, golden headiness of a summer in Tuscany. Incredible wine, impeccable local food, rolling green hills and buttery sunsets aren't the sole property of Italy, thank you very much. In South Australia's Barossa Valley, you can do all of the above, minus the whole spending Euros part. Whether it's feasting under the stars on a long summer night, driving through endless soft green hills, or visiting wineries shaped like castles, the European vibes are strong in this one. 

Best time to visit: December to February, for long summer nights and otherworldly sunsets.

The Greek Islands get a pretty major rap for their blinding white sand and wildly blue water. But, we ask – what of Elephant Rocks in the aptly named 'Denmark' (we're not making this up) region of Western Australia's William National Park? It's got it all, and unlike pretty much anywhere in Greece at the height of summer, you'll probably have the place to yourself. The traditional land of the Menang People is an incredibly special spot named for its elephant-like rocks that tumble out in the crystal clear water. Drape yourself over a hot rock, and bring some chilled wine from your icebox for the full Euro experience.

Best time to visit: Late spring or early summer, before the sweaty weather and crowds kick in.

Melbourne often gets dubbed the most 'European of all the Australian cities', but we reckon it's the undisputed southern hemisphere sibling to Berlin. The Victorian city is famous for its gritty, graffiti-covered laneways, tiny underground bars and cosy coffee shops – drawing a flawless parallel to its cool German counterpart. Both cities are full of nocturnal creatives with a shared obsession for thrift-store fashion and avant-garde art. Melbourne wins in our hearts though, as the coffee is a lot better than anything you'll get in Europe. 

Best time to visit: Year-round – the romantic charm never fades.

Bright, beautiful and breathtaking, the Aurora Borealis is a bucket list item for pretty much every avid traveller. Only those who have witnessed the Northern Lights in the flesh can truly understand its otherworldly magic. But you don’t need to fork out on a ticket to Iceland to see the dramatic natural light display IRL. Australia has its very own version, called the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights, with the best viewing from Tasmania. Although only a third of the size of Iceland and located at the opposite pole, Bruny Island offers a similar sense of remoteness and a natural beauty that will take your breath away. 

Best time to visit: Like its northern sister, it’s hard to predict when the Aurora Australis will show up. Sightings are fleeting and faint, but are most common during the cooler months (May to August) and during the spring equinox in September.

Sardinia is an Italian island paradise set snugly in the Mediterranean Sea. Famous for its glassy turquoise waters and abundance of curious Bronze Age stone relics that look like beehives, it's one of the coolest places in the world. If you're in Australia though, it's pretty hard to get to – which is where Twilight Beach in Western Australia's Esperance comes in. Arguably better looking, Twilight is famous for its ridiculously clear water, sugar white sand and extraordinary beauty. Although you probably won't find an Italian Bronze Age relic here, you will be walking in a place that has been home to the Ngadju people for over 50,000 years. 

Best time to visit: Late spring or early summer, for sun-drenched days and pleasant temperatures (without the peak heat).

Hiking through the rugged alpine country of Norway is the stuff that dreams are made of. It's also extremely, extremely expensive. So, instead, we'd like to propose Cradle Mountain – one of Tasmania's most famous hikes, and a general all-round heavenly spot. Situated in the Central Highland region of Tasmania, Cradle is chilly, wild and chock-a-block with European-worthy mountain vistas. Expect to see (and be caught in) snow, wander through ancient forests and traverse some seriously high peaks. You might even get to see the Southern Lights, if you're lucky. So long, Trolltunga.

Best time to visit: June to August, to mirror the magical, icy charm of Norway.

If you've ever done a road trip through NSW's Southern Highlands, you'll know that the whole entire experience feels uncannily like you're in England, Ireland or Scotland – or any of the three. Although some parts of the UK aren't really considered Europe anymore, the general sentiment of driving through rolling hills, cosying up in cute country pubs, and snuggling down in B&Bs remains quintessentially 'Euro'. It's also exactly what you'll find while traversing the Britishness of Bowral, the sleepy lushness of Kangaroo Valley, and the misty, country peaks of Berry and its surrounds. Don't forget a cute scarf – and be prepared to see several mini castles. 

Best time to visit: Autumn and winter for crisp, cool mornings, colourful foliage and cosy pub weather.

If you've ever dreamt of hiking through Albania and taking a dip in one of those famed azure waterholes, you're not alone. Fortunately, Big Crystal Creek in Townsville also exists – and we may be biased, but we reckon it looks (possibly?!) even better. This freshwater swimming spot can be found in Munan Gumburu / Paluma Range National Park, about an hour's drive from Townsville. Expect incredibly blue and glassy water, calm little pools, comfortable smooth rocks, a natural rock waterslide, and a magical fresh waterfall. Albania? Who is she?

Best time to visit: During the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring, when pleasant temperatures make for a refreshing swim.

This charming village, reminiscent of a German postcard, is located a picturesque 30-minute drive from Adelaide city. Dating back to 1839, heritage-listed Hahndorf stands as Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement – and is the perfect day trip for those visiting the SA capital. Wander along the leafy main strip and discover local artisans selling everything from German cuckoo clocks and candlesticks to traditional sweets, cheeses and craft beers. It’s not a real trip to Deutschland without a frothy pint or two, and there are twelve on tap at local favourite, Haus Restaurant. Pair your pint with German specialties, like chunky wurst, juicy pork hock, real-deal Vienna schnitzel and fresh pretzels. Lecker!

Best time to visit: Autumn, when the vineyards and leafy streets come alive with vibrant shades of red, gold and orange.

If you grew up reading fairytales, you know the allure of an enchanted forest. Whether it was the huge trees that could talk or fairies frolicking in mossy hollows – it was always in a dark, green forest, somewhere distinctly European. In Tasmania's takayna / Tarkine, the misty, ancient woodlands of the Scottish Highlands seamlessly bleed into an Australian reality. This huge swathe of untouched, emerald-toned wilderness is home to ancient trees, countless waterfalls and incredibly significant ancient Indigenous sites. You'll be left feeling enchanted by the Tarkine, in more ways than one. 

Best time to visit: From May to March, when the forest comes alive with earthy colours.