Planning our honeymoon to Australia. We have 10 nights to stay (plus travel). Never visited before and thinking about Sydney and Cairns. Debating Ayers Rock or Melbourne. Given our short stay, if we spend 4 nights in Sydney and 4 nights in Cairns, is it better to do 2 nights in Ayers Rock or try to squeeze in Melbourne? Any suggestions are appreciated.

lgbeef, you're covering a lot of climate differences here, which month are you thinking of?

We are going this July. Thanks for your help.

Melbourne is not at its best in July (nor, for that matter, is Sydney, but it's still pleasant). I would opt for Uluru, since at this time of year you won't have to share it with the flies.

Don't overplan and try to see too much on your honeymoon.
Please see the Great Barrier Reef in the Cairns area. I think you could spend the entire time there if you like snorkling and such.
Melbourne to Cairns is a long flight. (Very early morning flight.)
Sydney to Cairns is better.
Haven't been to Ayers Rock because the travel people told me it would cost an extra thousand to go there. It is a place I would like to see if I ever visit Australia again. If price is not an issue for you, then Ayers Rock and Cairns would let you see two different areas.

If you like cities, then include Sydney. There are some romantic places to eat in Sydney. Harbour Cruise, Opera House, Koala Park Sanctuary... Lots to see there.

That's my opinion. Which ever you choose, I think you'll enjoy your holiday. Australia is a big country. Remember to make your honeymoon a holiday and not a tour, rushing from place to place.

Yes, would give Melbourne a miss in July too. In Cairns area its winter "dry" season, avg daily high air temperature at 78F, cooler at night when you'd need long pants or jeans and long sleeved shirt or light jacket. Although its still relatively warm in day, it is winter, and can often be windy. July is one of the best months to visit the centre, Ayers Rock, etc. You can fly Sydney-Ayers Rock-Cairns, if you skip Ayers Rock its a 3 hour direct flight Sydney-Cairns.