Alison Rodericks

Don't let the political reputation of Australia's capital city fool you; there are plenty of diverse and exciting things to do in Canberra. Over the last five years, the city has undergone a hospitality glow-up, with world-class wine bars, trendy restaurants and stylish boutique hotels opening in the rapidly developing cultural precincts of New Acton and Braddon. Although once only visited by eye-rolling schoolkids, political wheelers and culture vultures, Canberra is now a perfect weekend getaway spot, regardless of your interests. Our Editor, Melissa Woodley, lived in the capital for four years and has carefully curated this list of the best things to do in Canberra. Her ideal weekend here involves catching up with friends over a lap of Lake Burley Griffin, a big wander in the National Portrait Gallery, hunting for pastries at the Capital Region Farmers Market, and of course, watching the sunset from the top of Mount Ainslie – a non-negotiable too.  Editors' favourite things to do in Canberra: 🌊 Best for relaxation: Floating Sauna, Lake Burley 🌅 Best for nature: Mount Ainslie Lookout 🎨 Best for art: National Portrait Gallery 🍽️ The best restaurants in Canberra🥾 The best hikes in Canberra🖼️ The best museums and galleries in Canberra

If there was any lingering doubt that Brisbane is a world city, it was put to rest the moment we scored the 2032 Olympics. Since then, the River City's been named one of the world's trendiest travel destinations and one of the friendliest places to live. Whether you're a local or just passing through, our editors have compiled the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Brisbane right now. In QAGOMA, the city has two of the best-designed art galleries on the planet, and blockbuster art to show in them. Sure, we've got great barbecue spots, but you'll also find some seriously impressive fine dining experiences and rooftop bars, too. Add in that year-round sunny climate (though slip, slop, slap, please) and a great set of river walkways and public transport connections, and you’ve got yourself a city that’s a dream to explore. Start ticking off this list of the best things to do in Brisbane. Editors' favourite things to do in Brisbane: 🐶 Best for families: Bluey's World 😋 Best for art & culture: QAGOMA 🧺 Best for locals: West End Markets ☀️ Best for outdoors: Climb Mt Coot-tha 🌳 The best free things to do in Brisbane🚗 The best day trips from Brisbane🥐 The best bakeries in Brisbane

We're calling it: Adelaide is one of the most underrated cities in the country. The South Australian capital punches well above its weight with its stunning walks, top-notch wineries and unexpected water adventures. Whether you're visiting for a quick weekend away or an extended stay, you'll leave wishing you'd booked a few extra nights. Our expert writers are here to help you plan the perfect trip with this list of the best things to do in Adelaide. We've got activities for foodies, families, hikers, day trippers and everyone in between. So, where to begin? Editors' favourite things to do in Adelaide: 🥙 Best for foodies: Adelaide Central Market 🚶🏻‍♀️ Best for nature: Hallett Cove Boardwalk 🍷 Best for a day trip: Adelaide Hills 🍽️ The best restaurants in Adelaide🖼️ The best galleries and museums in Adelaide⭐️ The best hotels in Adelaide

If you think there’s a heck of a lot of fab new Sydney openings right now, you’d be right. Top of my list to check out is Lo Presti’s, a loosely Mediterranean restaurant in Redfern run by Baba’s Place’s former head chef. The Observer Hotel has reopened after a three-and-a-half-year reno by the team behind the Duke of Clarence – and there’s darts, exclusively brewed beers and delicious-looking fish sandwiches – and you need to visit La Buvette. It’s a Parisian-style wine bar in Potts Point from the Bar Copains team. Got a date comin’ up? Head to The Heritage Room (pictured) in Martin Place for cheese, Tuscan salumi and rare wines. Enjoy. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for something to wash it all down with? These are our favourite bars in Sydney right now. Keen to eat your way around the city? These are the best restaurants in Sydney, from hot newcomers to the OGs.

No two ways about it, Sydney's wine bar scene is flourishing. Full to the brim. Spilling over. A decade ago, there were only a handful of wine bars. Now? They're all over town. And we're here to happily drink them up. What's more, these slick haunts are also some of the best spots in Sydney to grab a nice dinner with friends.  It makes no difference whether you're a novice or an expert, fancy something natural or classic, old world or new, or whether you want to spend moderately or extravagantly, Time Out Sydney's writers, including Editor Avril Treasure, have curated this list for every palate, at every price point. Bottoms up. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Can't get enough of that boozy stuff? Check out the absolute best bars in Sydney here.

There's a lot that goes into making a great pub. They need to furnish you with an excellent meal and friendly service, and a game of pool or darts doesn't go astray, and we're fans of weekly trivia. On a hot day, it's all about having a welcoming beer garden, and on a Sunday, it's all about a cracking roast. Top-notch drinks are a must, obvs. There are a lot of rock-solid pubs in this city, and these are our picks of the bunch, pulled together by Time Out Sydney's local writers. Cheers! Editor's picks: 🍠 Best for a Sunday roast: The Bat & Ball ☀️ Best for a sunny beer garden: Courthouse Hotel 🍽️ Best for a delicious feed: The Dry Dock 🎸 Best for live music: The Duke of Enmore 🔖 Best for mid-week trivia: The Lord Gladstone 🍻 Best for a Sunday jazz : The Old Fitz Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. For something a bit less pubby, a bit higher end, see our picks of the best bars in Sydney. Want more? These are the best steaks in Sydney for $25 and under. Hungry? Check out our ultimate guide to Sydney's best restaurants. 

Hobart’s Japanese dining scene punches far above its weight, blending Tassie’s fresh seafood and exceptional local produce with traditional techniques. From ultra-intimate, multi-course omakase counter seats to late-night izakayas and hidden suburban gems serving crispy karaage and rich ramen, the island capital has a table for every craving. Here are the best Japanese restaurants in Hobart to book right now, thanks to recommendations from our local foodie experts. Kanpai! Editor's favourite Japanese restaurants in Hobart: 🍣 Best for dinner & drinks: Bar Wa Izakaya 🍜 Best for fine dining: Omotenashi  🍱 Best for ramen: Ranita Ramen For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best pizza in Hobart🍽 The best restaurants in Hobart

Spring has sprung – and, somehow, so have the school holidays. Again. (Seriously, where has 2026 gone?) If you haven’t lined up anything to keep the kids entertained and out of your hair, fear not. We’ve rounded up plenty of things to do across Sydney, from big-ticket shows to fun, free activities the entire family will enjoy. With Daylight Saving Time about to kick in, there’s plenty to do around our Harbour City. Make the most of those longer days with a picnic to see the spring blossoms and jacarandas in bloom, a day spent at any of our beautiful beaches (hello, fish and chips followed by a dripping icy pole), or a visit to the all-new Wild Things Kids’ Festival at the Sydney Opera House, with loads of free events. So, slip-slop-slap on that sunscreen – and your sense of adventure. Let the school holidays begin. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for somewhere affordable to eat out with the kids? Check out our guide to the best cheap eats in Sydney. Or try any of these activities that are absolutely free to do.

If Canberra had to pick a culinary crush, it would be Indian food. The city is full of curry-craving residents, many of whom would much rather indulge in the real deal than settle for their own half-hearted attempts at home (let's face it, it just never tastes quite as good). Luckily for them, Canberra's best Indian restaurants serve everything from the smoky flavours of the tandoor oven and the fiery heat of a North Indian curry to South Indian dosas and a cooling lassi. We've asked local foodies to recommend the best Indian restaurants in Canberra for your next group dinner, date night or takeaway evening. The only question is, can you handle the heat? Editor's favourite Indian restaurants in Canberra: ✨ Best local favourite: Rama’s Fiji Indian Restaurant 😋 Best cheap and cheerful: Indian Pantry Restaurant 👌 Best institution: Taj Mahal Indian Restaurant For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best pizza in Canberra🍝 The best Italian in Canberra

At 42 degrees south of the equator, Hobart may be known for its pristine wilderness and cool-climate wines, but its Indian food scene packs some serious heat. Whether you're craving the fiery kick of a vindaloo, the comfort of a dal or seriously spicy chaat, the best Indian restaurants in Hobart have you covered.  Our local food writer Madeleine Gasparinatos has eaten her way through the city's top Indian diners to bring you this ultimate hit list. Her advice? Arrive hungry and leave room for kulfi (Indian ice cream). Go to Dawat The Invitation for fiery North Indian fare (hello, dal makhani), visit Sacred Bites for Indian classics with an Asian twist, or grab takeaway from Magic Curries, a family-run restaurant where you can dial the spice level up or down, depending on how daring you feel. Strap yourself in for a taste bud tour of the best Indian restaurants in Hobart. Editor's favourite Indian restaurants in Hobart: 🥘 Best banquet: Maharaja Authentic Indian Restaurant ⭐️ Best for groups: Chillies Indian and Nepali Restaurant 💎 Best for date night: Magic Curries For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍣 The best Japanese food in Hobart🍽 The best restaurants in Hobart

There’s no better feeling than your sinuses getting a well-deserved cleanse, and we’re happy to report that a feast at any of Perth's best Indian restaurants will do the trick. Yep, there are venues for every kind of curry craving, Indian street food and fusion fare in the world's most isolated major city. To help find the spot that's right for you, Time Out has enlisted local foodies to come up with a list of the best Indian restaurants in Perth that will knock your socks off. See you in flavourtown! Editor's favourite Indian restaurants in Perth: 🥘 Best budget: Chutney Mary's ⭐️ Best special occasion: Sauma 🍷 Best BYO: Spicy Affair For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best Italian in Perth🍷 The best Japanese in Perth

When it comes to Indian food, variety is the spice of life – and in Adelaide, we have tons to choose from. From traditional regional curries and fiery street food to modern fine dining and buttery naan fresh from the tandoor, South Australia's capital delivers on every flavour profile.  We've recruited local foodies to steer you in the right direction with this guide to the very best Indian restaurants in Adelaide. Fill the table with butter chicken, aromatic biryani or an authentic thali feast – and don't be afraid to overorder. Everyone knows curry tastes better the next day. Editor's favourite Indian restaurants in Adelaide: 🥘 Best budget: City Indian Cuisine ⭐️ Best special occasion: Daughter In Law 💎 Best local gem: Indian Temptations For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍣 The best Japanese restaurants in Adelaide🍕 The best pizza in Adelaide

Christmas is coming – and before you know it, we’ll be decking the halls, shopping for pressies and filling the fridge for a festive feast. Luckily, the Good Food & Wine Show Christmas Edition is coming to Sydney this November, bringing plenty of good cheer, good food and good wine.  Taking over ICC Sydney from November 20-22, the three-day celebration brings together more than 200 food, wine and artisan producers, along with some of Australia’s favourite chefs and baking personalities. At the heart of the action is The Festive Kitchen, a 120-seat theatre where celebrity chef Miguel Maestre, Kirsten Tibballs – AKA the Queen of Chocolate – and The Great Australian Bake Off judge Darren Purchese will share festive recipes, baking tips and entertaining ideas. Hosted by former The Great Australian Bake Off contestant Elliot Styche (The Singing Baker), there’ll be plenty of live cooking and baking demonstrations to help create your own Christmas spread. Want to get hands-on? Head to The Cooking School for masterclasses with familiar faces from The Great Australian Bake Off, including Anirban Chanda, who’s opening a bakery with Indian and native Australian flavours, as well as chefs Miguel Maestre and Darren Purchese. Our tip: sessions are designed for pairs, so bring a friend. Get your Christmas gift shopping done with a choice of everything from wine and cheese to puddings and premium homewares. Wine lovers can sip their way through Australia’s finest drops at the Wine Pavilions,

Sax in the city? Yes, please. The Melbourne International Jazz Festival (MIJF) returns from October 16–25, bringing world-class jazz to venues across the city. Since 1998, MIJF has championed contemporary jazz – from cutting-edge improvisers to legendary names – with more than a third of performances free to attend. The 2026 program is filled with acclaimed jazz artists, including: The Teskey Brothers: Sidney Myer Music Bowl, October 17 Beloved Australian band The Teskey Brothers will headline the MIJF launch with a special tenth anniversary performance of their breakthrough album Half Mile Harvest, bringing their signature blend of soul, blues and vintage sounds to the stage. Returning to their Melbourne roots, the band will perform the album in full, plus favourites spanning the band’s acclaimed catalogue. Joining them will be trombonist legend Fred Wesley backed by The New JBs, plus ARIA Award-winning artist Emily Wurramara. Rebirth Brass Band: 170 Russell, October 18 Bringing the unmistakable spirit of New Orleans to Melbourne, Grammy Award-winning Rebirth Brass Band will make their Australian debut at MIJF. Hailed as a “New Orleans institution” by The New York Times, the band blends second-line rhythms with jazz, funk, soul and R&B for a high-energy sound that gets crowds moving. From the streets of the French Quarter to stages around the world, Rebirth Brass Band has become a defining force in New Orleans music, delivering joyful, brass-powered performances for more

Want an easy day trip packed with nature, spectacular scenery and a healthy dose of adventure? Head to Scenic World, Katoomba in the Blue Mountains, where everyone will be saying “Whoa!” as you hurtle down the mountain on a railway, cruise above the treetops or wander through ancient rainforest.  The star of the show is the Scenic Railway, which has been getting passengers’ hearts racing since 1945. Originally built in the 1880s to transport shale from the valley, it was later transformed into a tourist attraction by Harry Hammon. Today, you can plunge into the rainforest on a stomach-churning 52-degree incline at up to four metres per second. According to Guinness World Records, it’s the world’s steepest passenger railway – so don’t blame us if the kids want to ride it again immediately. Once you’ve survived the ride down, hop off and explore the Scenic Walkway. The 2.4km network of elevated boardwalks winds through the rainforest, giving you the chance to stretch your legs and get among the lush greenery of the Jamison Valley. You don’t need to tackle the whole thing, either – there are shorter ten-minute routes if little legs are starting to tire. While you’re there, join one of Scenic World’s Buunyal Indigenous experiences, led by an Indigenous guide and offering a chance to learn more about Gundungurra Country. The shorter Buunyal Yarn is a good introduction, while the guided Buunyal Tour combines the rides and rainforest walk with stories and knowledge about the land, i

Love a good pop-up that’s packed with cool stuff – but hate that it disappears before you’ve had a chance to go back? Melbourne streetwear label Tild has heard your collective groan and is making shopping a bit easier by having its longest pop-up yet. Running from October 4 to November 1, it gives you an entire month to browse and buy their merch. Founded in 2021 by Melbourne sisters Tilly and Lucy Comb, Tild is all about blending streetwear with vintage-inspired style. Think jackets, hoodies, trackpants and singlets splashed with bold prints and playful graphics, as well as everyday staples with a retro twist. Get to this pop-up at 240 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy that’s open daily from 10am to 4pm. So, take your time and find yourself something fun. Get all the updates via their Instagram. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:  Here's more to see and do when you're in Fitzroy Crown Melbourne's $200-million redevelopment is picking up speed

Wondering what to do with the kids during the spring school holidays? The Sydney Opera House has got you covered with its first-ever Wild Things International Kids Festival. Running for 16 days from September 26 until October 11, this festival turns the Opera House into a creative playground, with performances, workshops, installations and activities for all kids from toddlers to teens.  Out on the Forecourt, families can enjoy free performances, giant interactive installations and roaming puppeteers. Venture inside to catch shows for different age groups from Australia and around the world. And with every performance priced at $49 or less, it’s a fun thing to add to your school holiday calendar. Shows to watch ZOOOM September 26–29 at Playhouse; Age: 4+ Patch Theatre takes kids on an imaginative journey through the universe, inspired by the beloved Harold and the Purple Crayon. We Come From Far, Far Away October 3–7 at The Studio; Age: 10+ Abdallah shares his story of life, travel and growing up, inspired by the real journeys of young refugees and performed inside a Mongolian yurt. Tinker Tales!October 3–5 at Playhouse; Age: 6+ Three performers build, dance and create on a giant building site, where things quickly spiral into wonderfully chaotic fun. Grand Soft Day October 8–11 at Playhouse; Age: 2–6 Three friends head into the woods, but the weather has other plans. Expect movement, music and a charming mix of English, Irish and Italian. Free Events in the Forecourt There’

The State Library of NSW is celebrating its 200th birthday – and you’re invited. 200 Years of Awe is a six-week program of performances, talks and free events that brings together First Nations storytelling, live music, theatre, dance and plenty of reasons to visit. RECLAIM: A Contemporary Ceremony September 11-12, Mitchell Library Reading Room Director, choreographer and storyteller Stephen Page AO brings dance, spoken word, poetry and music together in RECLAIM. The powerful work celebrates the resistance, resilience and enduring culture of First Nations peoples. Earth Flow September 18-19, Mitchell Library Reading Room Composer and yidaki (digeridoo) master William Barton presents Earth Flow, a stirring celebration of memory, connection and living knowledge. Joining Barton are Aunty Delmae Barton, Jack Thompson, Ray Martin and the Sydney Street Choir. A Night at the Library September 20, 29, 30 & October 1, Library Auditorium What happens when a young student who doesn’t like reading gets stuck in a library overnight? Bell Shakespeare’s A Night at the Library turns that nightmare into an adventure filled with literary greats, fictional characters and plenty of fun.  The Scott Sisters: Pioneers of Science and Art September 25-27, Library Auditorium Step into the remarkable world of Harriet and Helena Scott, the 19th-century sisters whose exquisite illustrations helped put Australian butterflies on the map. Created by Skye McIntosh, this immersive work blends animation, theat

A sawfish swimming alongside a sea turtle in the Pilbara. Royal penguins stopped in their tracks by an enormous elephant seal. A Tassie devil fighting for survival. A whimbrel racing an incoming wave with a freshly caught crab in its beak. Flame-like patterns formed by the tides across a Western Australian sandbank. It’s true what they say: a picture definitely does speak a thousand words. Opening at the Australian Museum on September 12, the 2026 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year exhibition brings you face-to-face with some of the most extraordinary moments in the natural world. From wildlife encounters to otherworldly landscapes, these photographs offer a rare glimpse into the beauty and fragility of nature in our region. This free exhibition, produced by the South Australian Museum, showcases the finest images selected from 2,129 entries by 501 photographers across 17 countries. Spanning Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica and New Guinea, the photographs take in everything from critically endangered species and dramatic animal encounters to patterns and textures of the natural landscape. Western Australian photographer Matt Deakin has been named the 2026 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year for Ethereal Encounter. His mesmerising aerial photograph captures a critically endangered green sawfish moving towards a group of green turtles in the shallow waters of the Pilbara. Shot in the last light of the day, the milky water gives the sawfish

Clear your calendar because the Melbourne Royal Show is back, baby! From September 24 to October 4, Melbourne Showgrounds transforms into a glorious playground of farmyard animals, thrilling rides, packed showbags, yum eats and enough entertainment to keep you busy right until the nightly fireworks. The animals are the undisputed stars of the Show – it’s your chance to see prized cows, sheep, poultry, dogs and even some alpacas. Watch horses prance, canter and leap, cheer on working dogs and head to the rural pavilion for some farmyard fun. The Animal Nursery is your chance to get up close to adorable lambs and fluffy chicks. New this year, Livestock Lane takes you behind the scenes, offering a peek into the horse stables and working areas of the Livestock Pavilion. Then there are the blue ribbon competitions. Marvel at the best of the best across everything from art, craft, cookery and woodchopping to dogs, horses, alpacas and cattle. This year marks 70 years of the Golden Axe, the most prestigious award in the Melbourne Royal Woodchop Championships, while the KG Luke Equestrian Turnout celebrates 90 years as a highlight of the Melbourne Royal Horses in Action Competition. Next, the all-important showbags – choose from 400 varieties. Whether you’re after chocolate, lollies, snacks, novelty goodies, lifestyle treats or your favourite licensed characters, there’s a bag with your name on it. What are going to be the top picks this year? The Cinnamoroll, Capybara, Hello Kitty an

Get ready to step into the wonderfully weird world of Takashi Murakami, the renowned Japanese contemporary artist who founded the ‘Superflat’ movement in 2000. Opening at the Art Gallery of New South Wales on December 5, Takashi Murakami: When the Mountain is High, the Moon Rises Higher is the artist’s first Australian retrospective, presented exclusively in Sydney as part of the 2026–27 Sydney International Art Series. Spanning more than 30 years of Murakami’s career, the exhibition brings together more than 150 works, many never previously seen in Australia. Expect everything from giant smiling flowers, colourful anime characters, enormous paintings and sculptures to video and immersive installations, charting the artist’s fascination with the intersection of tradition, technology, fantasy, commerce and popular culture. At the heart of the exhibition are two immersive environments: a darkened gallery centred on Hexagonal Double-Helix Tower (Rokkaku Rasendō), surrounded by monumental paintings of Kyoto’s four guardian deities – the dragon, tiger, phoenix and tortoise. Further on, a dazzling golden room, with gilded walls and floors, sets the scene for lavish paintings and a golden sculpture inspired by five centuries of Japanese art history. Murakami’s spectacular large-scale paintings are another highlight, including Japan Supernatural, Dragon in Clouds – Indigo Blue and Cherry Blossoms Fujiyama JAPAN. At 25 metres long, Judgement Day is the largest painting in the exhibit

Need an excuse to visit Orange? Consider this your invitation. From October 16-25, the Orange Wine Festival gives you ten days of more than 40 wine-fuelled events, from long lunches and lively night markets to tastings and masterclasses to enjoy. So, what makes Orange wine so special? It’s all about the altitude – and a little bit of attitude. Vineyards climb from around 600 to more than 1,000 metres above sea level, making this Australia’s highest wine region. Perched on the slopes of Mount Canobolas / Gaanha Bula, they benefit from cool nights, a long growing season and rich volcanic soils, creating distinctive cool-climate wines. During the festival, the region’s winemakers, vignerons, sommeliers, chefs and restaurateurs throw open their doors for a taste of Orange – and there’s far more on the menu than a standard cellar-door visit. October 16 | Night MarketsStart the festival with a stroll through Robertson Park, glass in hand, as local winemakers pour their award-winning wines and chefs dish up the best of Orange produce. Expect good food, good wine and a very good Friday. October 23 | Sip & Savour: The Ultimate Wine TastingYou’ll be spoilt for choice with more than 300 wines, including the 2026 Orange Wine Show winners, gathered under one roof at the Agricultural Pavilion.  October 23 | 2026 Orange Wine Show Trophy MasterclassTaste the trophy-winning wines of the 2026 season while an Orange winemaker takes you behind the bottle, sharing the stories and secrets that mak

If a trip to London isn’t on the cards, you can still get a taste of one of its cultural icons right here in Sydney. The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA) is joining forces with London’s Tate International for Connections: MCA x Tate, a landmark exhibition celebrating one of the most significant international partnerships in Australian contemporary art. Open until March 1, 2027, the exhibition brings together works acquired through the MCA and Tate International Joint Acquisition Program, alongside works from the MCA Collection and newly commissioned pieces. Together, they explore Australia’s ancient and recent cultural histories through a powerful First Nations lens. The joint acquisition program ran from 2015 to 2022, made possible by a $2.75 million gift from the Qantas Foundation. It enabled 35 significant works by 24 Australian artists to enter the collections of two major international institutions, helping bring Australian contemporary art to audiences around the world. The partnership first made waves at Tate Modern in 2021 with A Year in Art: Australia 1992, which attracted almost 1.5 million visitors. It also supported Richard Bell’s acclaimed Embassy, presented in Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall in 2023. Curated for an Australian audience, Connections: MCA x Tate explores cultural exchange, trade, migration, travel and diaspora, while examining the long-lasting impact of British colonisation. First Nations artists are at the heart of the exhibition, with works

Love video games? You’re invited to step inside one at ACMI, where acclaimed Chinese artist Feng Mengbo transforms modern Chinese history into a surreal, interactive adventure. Presented by ACMI and the City of Melbourne’s Now or Never festival, Feng Mengbo: Long March Restart reimagines China’s rapid 20th century modernisation through this retro video game. Inspired by the Long March of 1934-36 (the military retreat of the Chinese Red Army that helped establish Mao Zedong’s rise to power), the artwork takes history into unexpected territory. Visitors can guide a Red Army soldier across two giant screens, navigating a pixelated world filled with supernatural creatures, pop culture characters and historical references. The soldier is armed with an unlikely weapon: Coca Cola cans. The visuals draw on iconic 1980s games including Super Mario Bros. and Street Fighter II, while the different levels weave together historical landmarks, Cold War science fiction and retro video game imagery. Feng, who grew up during China’s Cultural Revolution and the later period of economic reform, is a pioneering figure in Chinese digital and interactive art. Feng Mengbo: Long March Restart reflects his fascination with how technology and popular culture can reshape the way we understand history. 'Feng Mengbo: Long March Restart' is on now until January 31, 2027, in the foyer near the ACMI Shop. Entry is free; no bookings are required. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne ne

Need an antidote to Sydney city life? Breathe out the stressors of the rat race and breathe in some much-needed serenity when you escape to the country. And we’re not just talking about any old town; we’re talking country towns that are picture-postcard perfect. Luckily for you, there’s heaps of them right here in New South Wales and luckier still, the team from World Atlas, a global travel publisher, has compiled a list. Made for slow weekends that are all about R&R, these gorgeous getaways range from surfing villages and sparkling coastal hideaways to pastoral places surrounded by verdant hills and fields of gold. All you need to do is pick a place and hit the road. Ready?  Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out SydneyAustralia Rock at Narooma Narooma With its impossibly blue waters, rugged rock formations and abundant marine life, Narooma is one of the South Coast’s great scenic stunners. The town wraps around beautiful Wagonga Inlet, where pelicans, seals and fishing boats are part of the everyday scenery. It’s particularly famous for its fresh oysters, so make sure to slurp up half a dozen of these beauties. Australia Rock – the hole in this rock formation bears a striking resemblance to the shape of Australia when looked at from a certain angle – is another local icon.  Photograph: Destination NSWSeals at Narooma Bundeena On the doorstep of the Royal National Park, Bundeena is all about spectacular coastal scenery and a blissfully easy pace. It’s the northern sta

There’s something magical about travelling to a new city. It’s the thrill of tossing a coin backwards into Rome’s Trevi Fountain to make a wish. The bustle of Mumbai, still buzzing at 2am. The delight of watching sea lions bask lazily in the sun at San Francisco’s Pier 39. Every city has its own rhythm, its own flavours, its own little moments that linger with you long after you’ve flown home. According to 798,867 Condé Nast Traveler readers who voted in the publication’s Readers’ Choice Awards, these are the world’s best large cities. Keep in mind that the list focuses on large international cities with populations of more than 500,000, rather than smaller destinations such as San Sebastián in Spain or San Miguel de Allende in Mexico. Voters were drawn to cities celebrated for their food and drink, architecture, art and culture – from well-loved classics that visitors return to again and again (bonjour, Paris!) to less-touristed spots that deserve a place on your travel wishlist. And, of course, we’re particularly interested in where Sydney landed. Read on to find out. 1. Seoul, South Korea K-pop, K-beauty, K-dramas. The world is in love with all things Korean, so it’s no surprise that Seoul tops the list. It’s a city of delicious contradictions – five grand palaces and futuristic skyscrapers, tranquil temples and neon-lit streets. Add seriously good food (have you tried tteokbokki?), late-night shopping, a buzzing arts scene and mountains on your doorstep, and it’s easy to

You’ve tried tennis, you’ve probably heard of pickleball, but what about padel? If you’re looking for a new way to get active with your mates, this fast-paced racquet sport could be worth a shot. Game4Padel (G4P) has just opened its third club in Port Melbourne, with nine indoor courts where you can have a hit, learn the basics or get competitive. If the name G4P, sounds familiar, it's because they've also got padel clubs in Docklands and Richmond (as well as more in the UK)  – and they seem to be the go-to club for some of the world's biggest athletes whenever they visit Australia. The club is backed by tennis star Sir Andy Murray, and has hosted the likes of Pat Rafter, Alexander Zverev and Stan Wawrinka. And it's not just tennis legends getting around it. Formula 1 drivers Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri have also had a hit on G4P's courts during their visits for the Australian Grand Prix. So, what exactly is padel? Think of it as tennis meets squash, played mostly in a doubles format on an enclosed court. It’s easy enough for beginners to pick up, but there’s plenty of scope to get better – and because you’re usually playing in pairs, it’s a pretty social way to get moving. When you’re done playing, you can stick around for a bite to eat, with coffee, craft beer and beverages also on offer. It's one of the fastest-rising sports worldwide, with over 35-million players registered with clubs. Photograph: SuppliedPlaying padel at the G4P padel court, Port Melbou

If you catch public transport on the reg, you probably don’t give a second thought to the stations you pass through on your daily commute to work or uni. But the people at Prix Versailles certainly do, and they’ve just unveiled its World’s Most Beautiful Stations list 2026 to celebrate transport hubs that combine striking design with innovation, character and sustainability. Drumroll, please: Melbourne's new Town Hall station has been named as one of their seven most beautiful train stations in the world for 2026.  Yes, our Town Hall station certainly makes an impression. Sitting beneath Swanston Street in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, the station was designed by Hassell, RSHP and WW+P, with its vast underground spaces giving the daily commute a distinctly grand feel. Photograph: Quincy Lee / ShutterstockTown Hall Station, Melbourne The station’s concourse is framed by eight enormous columns inspired by trees, with branching forms supporting the canopy overhead. The result is almost cathedral-like, while coppery vaulted ceilings rise ten metres above the wide platforms, creating a sense of space even though it’s underground.  There’s plenty of art to admire, too. Maree Clarke’s Barerarerungar stretches across the Federation Square entrance to Town Hall, while her Tracks appears along the platforms of all five new Metro Tunnel stations. Over at State Library Station, Danie Mellor’s Forever covers the glass façade. Together, the stations form an underground blend of transport

Ready for theatre that will make you laugh, think and possibly question your relationship with your phone? Malthouse Theatre’s 2027 season has arrived, with new artistic director and co-CEO Dean Bryant unveiling eight productions – all new Australian works, including seven world premieres. Expect everything from satire and gothic horror to cabaret, black comedy and adaptations of literary classics, performed by some of Australia’s best-known performers alongside exciting new voices. As Bryant puts it, the aim is for theatre that “electrifies and sends audiences out fully charged”. Here are the highlights of Malthouse Theatre’s 2027 season: The Tartuffe February 19–March 19, Merlyn Theatre If you’re spending a little too much time talking to ChatGPT, this one might hit close to home. Directed by Dean Bryant and starring Eddie Perfect, this modern-day reimagining of Molière’s 17th-century play transforms Tartuffe into an AI-powered hairdressing robot that listens, cares and knows a little too much because its family gives it access to everything. Swim May 12–22, Beckett Theatre Mununjali poet Ellen van Neerven makes their stage debut with this dreamlike work starring Cynda Jace Beare and Tahlee Fereday. On a hot summer’s day at the local pool, gender-fluid protagonist E negotiates the space between the change rooms and dives into something much deeper. Photograph: Nicole ReedStoneyard Devotional Stone Yard Devotional June 4–26, Merlyn Theatre What happens when you walk away f

Every year, Time Out crowns the world’s best cities based on what local dwellers actually think – rating everything from nightlife and culture to walkability and green spaces. But now it’s time to turn our attention to the annual Oxford Economics Global Cities Index, which factors in hard data like economic power, governance quality and rental prices.  This year, while Melbourne still cracked the top 20 cities in the world, it's slipped from seventh place last year to 16th place. Sixteen out of 1,000 cities – still fairly high. The Oxford Economics Global Cities Index crunches the numbers across the world’s 1,000 most populous cities, looking at 27 indicators across five categories: Economics, Human Capital, Quality of Life, Environment and Governance. The scores are then tallied to reveal how the world’s biggest cities stack up. Seven Aussie cities cracked the global top 100 in 2026, with Sydney actually trumping us in 13th place. At the very top of the list, it’s a familiar trio: New York, London and Paris have once again claimed the top three spots, while rising metropolises like Dublin, Tokyo, Boston and Zurich made it into the top 10.  Photograph: Pexels | Kyle VermeulenAerial view of Melbourne Here’s how Melbourne performed across Oxford Economics’ five categories: Economics: 17thMelbourne scores strongly here, thanks to its diverse and resilient economy and its status as a major global city. Human Capital: 68thThe city’s impressive universities and its appeal to mi

Good news, gig-goers: the future of live music in New South Wales just got a little brighter. The Minns Labor Government has passed the Contemporary Music Act 2026, introducing new protections for music venues, concerts and music festivals across the state. This legislation is part of the NSW Government’s ten-year contemporary music strategy and aims to make it easier for venues to host live music, while giving local artists and the industry more support. Among the changes is a new three-tier scheme to recognise music venues as ‘dedicated’, ‘significant’ and ‘live music’. It could unlock government grants and extended trading hours. Concert organisers will also have more freedom to book local acts without automatically triggering the rules that apply to large-scale music festivals. Says Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, John Graham, “This legislation provides vital protections for our music industry, an industry which was smashed by lockouts, lockdowns and overregulation. It demonstrates the importance of live music to the economy... Important and common-sense changes, like updating the definition of concerts so smaller events aren’t wrongly classified as large scale music festivals and slugged with more red tape, will encourage more live music programming at events across the state, which leads to more jobs for local artists and more live music for fans.” The new laws will also introduce a fairer way of measuring noise at outdoor events, offer free mediation for

When life in Sydney gets a bit too much, it’s time to swap traffic snarls for country roads and pinging phone notifications for the sound of birdsong. Luckily for you, there are still places dotted around New South Wales where the clock seems to tick a little more slowly. Lined with heritage buildings, country pubs and relics from another era, they’re just like a hug from your Nana: comforting, cosy and full of charming anecdotes. From former gold-rush towns to sleepy high-country villages, these NSW towns invite you to leave the stress and strain of modern life behind, even if it’s only for a weekend. Braidwood If you’re driving to Canberra, take a slight detour to Braidwood. In 2006, it became the first entire town in NSW to be listed on the State Heritage Register, thanks to its remarkably intact 19th-century streetscape of grand Georgian buildings, stone cottages and old inns. Photograph: Destination NSWBraidwood, NSW Bundanoon Surrounded by the Southern Highlands, Bundanoon is full of grand gardens, period guesthouses and Tudor-style buildings. A walk to Glow Worm Glen is a must, as is exploring the waterfall in Morton National Park. Each April, Bundanoon hosts Brigadoon, Australia’s largest Scottish Highland festival, complete with bagpipes and Highland dancing. Carcoar Did you know Carcoar was the scene of Australia’s first daylight bank robbery in 1863? Located in a valley beside the Belubula River, its winding streets are lined with stone buildings, old churches an

Love a bit of razzle-dazzle? How about drama and didactic dialogue? Or perhaps a healthy dose of witty repartee? Whatever gets you into a theatre seat, Melbourne Theatre Company’s 2027 season has you covered. The newly announced program for 2027 is looking very, very good, with 11 productions spanning everything from reimagined classics to compelling new Australian dramas and international hits. There are six world premieres, three Australian premieres and seven works by Australian writers, including two by First Nations writers. Six productions have been supported through MTC’s Next Stage Writers’ Program, while five are MTC commissions, highlighting the company’s commitment to nurturing ambitious new Australian work. In other words: clear your calendar. As Melbourne Theatre Company Artistic Director and CEO Anne-Louise Sarks says, "Season 2027 invites audiences to join us at the theatre for thrilling, moving and surprising storytelling. Our new season highlights who we are: a company that backs Australian artists, commissions new Australian work and gives artists the support to continue making ambitious theatre from the ground up." Photograph: Jo DuckActor Rachel Griffiths in Clarice Melbourne Theatre Company’s 2027 season: Stereophonic: Opening on January 25, David Adjmi’s Stereophonic is the most Tony Award-nominated play in Broadway history. Directed by Daniel Evans with an original score by Will Butler, this musical follows a band recording the album that could make t

Yes, Melbourne is Australia’s coffee capital, but us Melburnians also know a thing or two about pizza. From blistered, chewy Neapolitan bases to crisp Roman-style slices and gloriously cheesy American-inspired pies, Melbourne’s pizza scene is seriously impressive. So, it comes as no surprise to learn that one of our pizzerias scored a place in the 50 Top Pizza Awards 2026. These awards are essentially the Michelin Guide of the pizza world, with the rankings decided by almost 1,000 anonymous, unpaid inspectors. Visiting each pizzeria at least twice a year, they evaluate far more than just the final taste, scoring everything from dough quality and ingredient sourcing to service and overall atmosphere. In a shocking twist, the top two pizzerias for 2026 aren’t actually in Italy – the birthplace of pizza. First place went to London’s Napoli on the Road, followed by New York’s Una Pizza Napoletana in second. Milan's Confine came in third – phew!  Photograph: Supplied | Julian LalloShop225 pizzeria Melbourne’s Shop225 cracked the top 50, landing in 42nd place – and you might remember that it was already crowned Australia’s best pizza last year. Beyond perfectly blistered crusts and carefully sourced toppings, Shop225 founder Lorenzo Tron's mission is a commitment to eating equality. This neighbourhood joint in Pascoe Vale South doesn’t just make exceptional pizza; it was the first pizzeria nationally to be gluten-free accredited by Coeliac Australia, and offers heaps of vegetaria

Sea breeze. Sun-kissed vibes. Spritz in hand. If you’re craving the Mediterranean but your bank balance says "sorry, no", take a drive up to Terrigal on the Central Coast instead. Just over an hour from Sydney, The Tropic delivers all the easy-breezy charm of a Euro summer – without having to renew your passport. Photograph: Megann EvansThe Tropic in Terrigal Right on the water inside the lively Terrigal Pavilion, this 280-seat restaurant by hospitality duo Ben May and Rob Domjen has been serving a slice of coastal paradise since it opened in December 2025. Located downstairs in the Pavilion, The Tropic is tailor-made for long lunches with friends or date-night dinners.  Inside, it’s laidback and a little bit luxe: pastel yellows, terracotta tones, custom cane furnishings and a show-stopping 12-metre bar wrapped in lemon-hued Spanish tiles. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame uninterrupted waterfront views, so no matter where you sit, you’ll get a front-row seat to the sea. Photograph: Megann EvansDishes at The Tropic The Mediterranean menu has a mod Australian slant and is made for sharing. Start with shucked-to-order oysters with a zingy chardonnay mignonette, tuna crudo and beef tartare piled with capers, pickles, shallots and a glossy quail egg yolk perched on top. There’s plenty to graze on like creamy burrata with pesto, slivers of jamon Iberico and roast pumpkin hummus. When it’s time for mains, opt for the citrusy-herby goldband snapper, grilled Wagyu rump or roast cho

Most Australians dream of owning their own home. But for many, it’s more of a pipe dream. Soaring property prices, higher interest rates, expensive construction costs and a chronic shortage of affordable housing have squeezed buyers’ budgets – particularly in Sydney, where even a modest studio apartment comes with an eye-watering price tag. But Australians haven’t given up on the great Australian dream; instead, they’re looking further afield to make it a reality. New data from realestate.com.au reveals that home buyers are increasingly widening their search, with regional towns and lesser-known locations attracting a surge of interest. In some areas, searches for homes have more than doubled compared with the same time last year, as buyers look for a more affordable way into the property market. And while Sydney still remains on the radar for apartment hunters, many of the biggest increases in buyer searches are happening well beyond the city limits. In NSW, small regional towns are proving particularly popular, where median house prices hover around the $500,000-mark – a fraction of what you’d pay in any capital city. Topping the list for where buyers are hunting for homes is Julatten, a rural locality near Port Douglas in Far North Queensland that has seen a massive 235% year-on-year increase in searches made for houses. Biggenden (222% increase) and Apple Tree Creek (210% increase) – both also in Queensland – round out the top three most searched areas for home buyers.