Alison Rodericks

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.

The witching hour is almost here, Melbourne – it’s time to get your spooky on! Sort out your Halloween costume quick-smart, decorate your front yard and get ready for a frightfully good time. With October 31 falling on a Saturday this year, there’s a whole weekend of wicked fun to look forward to. From horror-themed club nights and thrilling rides to haunted prison tours and scary theatrical experiences, there are plenty of ways to get your Halloween chills and thrills. So, dust off your witch’s hat and prepare for a weekend of deliciously dark fun. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. After the perfect costume? Check out Melbourne's best costume shops. 

Ah, Noosa. The Sunshine Coast destination is a mix of everything that is authentically (and wonderfully) Australian. It’s all sun, sand and surf along Noosa Heads, trendy eateries and boutiques down Hastings Street, hectares of gorgeous greenery at Noosa National Park, and that Aussie outback hospitality across the hinterland. When it comes to staying the week, we reckon your best bet is setting up camp right in Noosa Heads, where all the action is. We’ve chosen the area’s best hotels for their welcoming nature, light-filled coastal rooms and proximity to the beach – some even beachfront; everything your sunny holiday should be. Here are the best hotels to book in Noosa right now.  Editor's favourite hotels in Noosa: 💎 Best for luxury: Elysium Noosa Resort 📍 Best for location: Tingirana Noosa ⭐️ Best for families: RACV Noosa 🌳 Best for backpackers: Halse Lodge ☀️ The best things to do in Noosa🍹 The best restaurants in Noosa🌴 The best beaches in Noosa Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

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

Sydney: the city of blue skies, ocean swims, alfresco living and sun-soaked times in the great outdoors, right? Well, hold on a second. That may be the case for a majority of the year thanks to our sunny Aussie climate, but the Harbour City also gets its share of super-rainy days. Don’t want to spend all of your indoors-time hunkering down at home? We’re here to help. Take shelter in style with our guide to the most fun things to do in Sydney within four walls. Whether you're in search of a crafternoon, a cultural adventure, or a cocktail with a view, there's something for everyone on our list of fun venues and activities where you can stay warm and dry, all year round. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.  RECOMMENDED:  On a budget? These are the best things to do in Sydney for $25 or less.And these are the best walks in the city if you're keen to get out there and explore. 

Sometimes, all you need is a mammoth mouthful of deliciousness. Flame-grilled. Dripping in sauce. Oozing with cheese. With or without beetroot – oh yeah, we’re talkin’ about burgers. Once the cravings hit, there’s just no going back. From proper American classics to novel vegan offerings, our local writers have sunk their teeth into these juicy numbers to round up the very best burgers in Adelaide right now. All you need to decide? Do you want fries with that?    Editor’s favourite burgers in Adelaide: 🥗 Best vegan burger: Two-Bit Villains  🕺🏻 Best American-style burger: Nordburger 🍔 Best cheeseburger: Cheeseburger Adelaide For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best pizza in Adelaide🍽 The best restaurants in Adelaide

What makes the best burger in Hobart? Is it the pillowy soft bun, locally sourced Tasmanian beef, the perfect condiment combo, the choice to add or subtract toppings (hello, beetroot!) or that first juicy bite? We'd say all of the above, plus a hefty dollop of secret sauce and the vibe of the venue. From classic smash burgers in the CBD to gourmet pub stacks in North Hobart, here is the definitive guide to Hobart’s best burger joints. There’s sure to be a burger here with your name on it. Editor’s favourite burgers in Hobart:  🍔 Best American-style burger: The Standard 🍻 Best pub burger: Moonah Hotel ✨ Best fusion burger: Devil’s Kitchen Café For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best Italian restaurants in Hobart🍣 The best Japanese in Hobart

Nothing beats sinking your teeth into a good old-fashioned burger – whether it’s a classic cheeseburger with tangy pickles, a caramelised smash burger hot off the grill, or a true-blue Aussie piled with beetroot. Or maybe you’re team crispy fried chicken or halloumi? Whatever your protein, make sure your burg has a pillowy soft bun– and some fries, of course. Canberra has more than its fair share of top-notch burger joints, and our expert writers have compiled a list for when those cheat-day cravings strike. Here are the best burgers in Canberra you need to try! Editor's favourite burgers in Canberra: 💰 Best cheap ’n’ cheerful burger: Mafia Buns 🍔 Best smash burgers: Pattysmiths 🧀 Best cheeseburger: Brodburger For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best pizza in Canberra🥐 The best bakeries in Canberra

Nothing cures what ails you quite like a burger. And lucky for us, Brisbane’s burger scene is absolutely stacked. Our local writers have done the hard yards (and the hard carbs) to confirm the city's obsession is real. From the laneway joints sizzling with smash patties to the fine-dining spots serving up Wagyu on linen tablecloths, Brisbane doesn’t mess around when it comes to buns and beef. If you’re after a greasy hangover hero, an artisanal take on Americana or the classic beef-cheese-bun trifecta, we've got the goods. Here’s our rundown on the best burgers in Brisbane worth the cholesterol points, including some tried and true favourites and a few under-the-radar spots worth checking out, too. Loosen that belt, grab a napkin (or five), and let’s dig in. Editor’s favourite burgers in Brisbane: 🍔 Best gourmet burger: Bar Miette 💸 Best budget burger: Ben’s Burgers 🥬 Best veggie burger: Dicki’s New Farm 🍕 The  best pizza in Brisbane🥩 The best steaks in Brisbane

Perth might feel like it's in a world of its own, but anyone who's been there will tell you it's absolutely worth the trip (which is a little over four hours by plane from Sydney or Melbourne). Once solely known for its pristine beaches and perfect weather, Perth’s booming restaurant and culture scenes, and its trendy sister city, Fremantle (just 30 minutes from Perth), have put Western Australia’s capital city on the international radar. Our expert writers, including Time Out's Editor, Melissa Woodley, have collated this mega guide on the best things to do in Perth. From a breezy stroll through Kings Park to a dip at the stunning Cottesloe Beach, the essentials are all here. We also reckon day trips to Fremantle and Rottnest Island are absolute musts. Happy exploring! Editors' favourite things to do in Perth: 🌊 Best for a sunny day: Cottesloe Beach 🌳 Best for families: Picnic in Kings Park 🥾 Best for an adventure: Kitty's Gorge Walk  🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth🖼️ The best museums and galleries in Perth⭐️ The best hotels in Perth

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

Passage: The Art of Atong Atem is a world-premiere exhibition celebrating the thought-provoking work of South Sudanese-born Melbourne-based contemporary artist Atong Atem. Opening at NGV on October 30, this major solo exhibition brings together more than 65 works spanning the past decade, including a new commission created exclusively for the gallery. Born in Ethiopia to South Sudanese parents, Atem moved to Australia with her family in 1997. Known for her striking photographic self-portraits, Atem transforms herself through colourful textiles, paint, costume and symbolic objects to explore identity, race, gender and colonialism. Her images weave together history, memory and imagination, celebrating the resilience of her Dinka Bor culture and Melbourne’s African diaspora while challenging how identity is represented and performed. Her work honours cultural traditions and ancestral stories that have endured displacement and war. A highlight of the exhibition is As Above, a large-scale wall installation exploring the stories held in the skies and constellations. Blending Dinka dance, traditional beading and Catholic iconography, the world-premiere commission brings together different cultural traditions in a striking visual narrative. The exhibition also presents Banksia (2021), a photographic series made at Melbourne’s Immigration Museum that turns the spotlight on African, African American and Caribbean convicts and free settlers who arrived with the First Fleet.  Meanwhile,

It's a long title, but an apt one. Dreaming myself into a future that was worth living is the name of the new exhibition at Warrnambool Art Gallery – and it sets the tone of what to expect. Bringing together three acclaimed artists – Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley, Gordon Bennett and Shaun Gladwell – it explores a big question: what does a future worth living for actually look like? Opening on November 14 and running until April 18, 2027, the exhibition features British artist and game designer Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley who is joined by Australian contemporary art pioneers Gordon Bennett and Shaun Gladwell. Inspired by a phrase from writer and activist Morgan M. Page, the exhibition explores how power, politics, technology and history shape our lives, our bodies and the futures we imagine. Brathwaite-Shirley is known for using video games, animation, performance and sound to tell stories that centre Black trans lives. Their paintings, including several new works, will help transform the gallery into an immersive space for visitors to engage with challenging ideas. Bennett (1955–2014) challenged Australia’s colonial history and its impact on national identity, questioning racial stereotypes and categorisations through powerful works that explored the post-colonial experience. He often adopted the persona of ‘John Citizen’ to challenge ideas about identity and the politics of representation in Australian art. Gladwell, meanwhile, works across video, virtual reality, sculpture an

There’s more than a good drop on offer at Hanging Rock Winery – this vineyard has morphed into an outdoor gallery. Art in the Vines – Art in Motion 2 is a free outdoor exhibition at Hanging Rock Winery, running daily from 17 October 2026 until the end of April 2027 with Hanging Rock and Mount Macedon providing a spectacular backdrop.  Spanning three acres of the winery’s grounds, the exhibition features more than 20 kinetic sculptures by local, Victorian and interstate artists. With the wind and weather constantly changing, the sculptures will move and interact with their surroundings, meaning no two visits will be quite the same. The standout attraction is a special showcase of five works by acclaimed Australian kinetic sculptor Rudi Jass, whose creations combine precision engineering with an artist’s eye for movement, balance and natural forces. Drawing on skills developed during his years working for Porsche, Jass creates carefully balanced sculptures that respond to the slightest breeze with seemingly effortless grace. The exhibition has already recognised some standout talent, with Mark Reyment winning the Hanging Rock Winery Sculpture Prize for At least you know it’s trying, a quirky work inspired by the Hanging Rock Races. Local chainsaw artist Paul Hurley took home the Arcare Prize for best up-and-coming artist for Black Cockatoo. Curator Malcolm Thomson says the kinetic theme challenged artists to make movement an integral part of their work, producing a fascinating

This November, the Inner West is serving up a delicious mix of exclusive craft beers, live music and seriously good food, all wrapped into one big neighbourhood party. Made in the Inner West runs from November 6-15, bringing together 13 breweries and 13 local businesses for ten days of deliciously creative collaborations and limited-edition beers.  In terms of entertainment, Inner Westie singer-songwriter Ben Lee is performing across four breweries along with his favourite local artists on November 7, so get ready to 'catch his disease', if you know what we mean. The festival’s food and drinks menu is full of unexpected pairings between local breweries and eateries. For instance, Grifter is teaming up with A.P Bakery, Heaps Normal with Mapo Gelato, Bracket with Miss Sina, and Pickled Monkey with Donut Garage and many, many more.  Grab a festival passport and collect stamps as you visit breweries and purchase beers. Score ten stamps and you’ll earn a limited-edition tote bag featuring artwork by Aidan Howes. Entry is free and everybody's welcome, so bring your family, bring your friends, and even bring your fur babies.  Made in the Inner West runs from November 6-15 across 13 Inner West Ale Trail breweries. Entry is free. Find out more here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.RECOMMENDED: Hungry for more? Here's where else you can grab a bite to eat in Sydney's Inner West.

Did you know that breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Australia? One in seven Australian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer by the age of 85. If you want to show your support, head to Manly Beach on Saturday, October 31 for Pink With Purpose. The morning kicks off at 5.30am with optional sunrise meditation and beachfront yoga, followed by coffee and a chance to connect with fellow participants.  At 7.30am, the main event begins, with women gathering in matching pink Zyla sports bras to create a giant pink heart on the sand at 7.45am. This is followed by a 3.4km return walk between Queenscliff and Manly, turning the beachfront into a sea of pink. The morning wraps up with a Pink Breakfast created by Zoe and Anna from Brain of a Dietitian (BOAD) at Bombora Pavilion from 9am to 10am, featuring a live auction as well as nutritious food, all in shades of pink and created specially for the event. Inspired by Northern Beaches mum Bec Bonar’s experience of having breast cancer detected despite a clear mammogram just months earlier, the event also highlights the importance of looking after your health and supporting ongoing research. Bring your mum, daughter, sister, aunt or best mates, or rally your walking group or colleagues to join in. You can also create your own fundraising page to help raise even more for Breast Cancer Trials. With Zyla Active donating the pink sports bras (founded by Bec’s friend’s daughter Emily White) and BOAD providing

Banksy is renowned for his thought-provoking, boundary-pushing and disruptive works. And now, the elusive, world-famous street artist is bringing his artwork to Melbourne in a new exhibition: Banksy Limitless at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre in November 2026. This new showcase features more than 250 works, large-scale installations, sculptures, digital displays – plus an impressive state-of-the-art hologram experience. Visitors can uncover untold stories behind iconic works including Cinderella at Dismaland, London Zoo and Ice Cream Van, while immersive rooms and bold visual storytelling invite audiences to step inside Banksy’s provocative universe. Renowned for his sharp wit and unflinching social commentary, Banksy continues to challenge perspectives on politics, culture and human rights. In keeping with his humanitarian ethos, a portion of proceeds from Banksy Limitless will support the M.V. Louise Michel, an independent high-speed lifeboat rescuing migrants in distress. So much more than a traditional exhibition, Banksy Limitless is a powerful, multi-sensory experience that will pull you in. Don't miss it.  The exhibition will run from November 25 to April 25, 2027, and tickets are on sale now. Adult tickets start at $39, and children at $28. You can get yours here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: A Chapel Street icon is getting a ‘lucky’ makeover after 20

Ditch the crowded malls and get a head start on your Christmas shopping at The Makers and Shakers Market on November 7-8. With more than 120 independent Australian makers, designers and gourmet producers setting up shop at Williamstown’s Seaworks Maritime Precinct, it’s a weekend full of boutique shopping, tasty treats and festive fun.  Celebrating its 10th birthday, the market is also an official partner of the Australian Made Campaign, so you can meet the makers and support local businesses while you shop. Think handmade jewellery, ceramics, art, homewares, skincare and small-batch goodies that make for perfect pressies. Feeling peckish? Grab an Italian-inspired sandwich from Rocco’s Bologna Discoteca, Mexican street food from Taco Truck or baked treats from Cobb Lane. Save room for Billy Van Creamy ice cream and Cannoleria’s sweet treats. Get the whole family included in Awkward Portraits’ gloriously daggy Christmas photo experience. Or opt for illustrated portraits by Eleanora Arosio and Pajama Art. Kids will love the free cardboard Christmas playspace, complete with colouring-in and card-making. Add water views, outdoor spaces and all-vinyl DJ sets, and you’ve got the makings of a very merry day out. So, make your Christmas list and check it twice. The only question is: have you been naughty or nice? The Makers and Shakers Market is at the Seaworks Maritime Precinct on November 7 and 8 from 10am to 4pm. Entry is $5 per adult and kids under 12 are free. Find out more vi

The late, great David Hockney (July 9, 1937 – June 11, 2026) passed away earlier this year, but his art is very much alive. You might know the British artist for his sun-drenched Los Angeles swimming pools, including A Bigger Splash (1967), or Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures) (1972), which fetched a whopping $90.3 million at auction in 2018. Or, perhaps you’ve seen his portrait of pop star Harry Styles that he painted in just two days, or his vibrant digital landscapes that he created on an iPad. Or maybe you just dig the fact that Hockney wore yellow Crocs when he met King Charles.  Now, Sydneysiders can step right into Hockney’s colourful, endlessly curious world as his acclaimed immersive experience, David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away), makes its Australian debut at Carriageworks. Running until January 24, 2027, this spectacular 360-degree production transforms the vast Bay 17 into a kaleidoscope of colour, movement, sound and light. Created by London’s Lightroom, the experience has captivated audiences from Seoul to Singapore since premiering in London in 2023. Bigger & Closer takes you inside Hockney’s artistic imagination, tracing six decades of creative experimentation. Narrated by Hockney himself and accompanied by an original score by composer Nico Muhly, it reveals the stories, ideas and happy accidents behind his extraordinary body of work. Journey through the San Gabriel Mountains, cruise along California’s Mulholland Drive and

Christmas is no longer creeping up on us slowly. Instead, it's charging at full force – and we're not mad about it. Especially since the Good Food & Wine Show Christmas Edition will be taking over the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from December 4-6. The three-day affair brings together artisan producers, local businesses and cult-favourites. 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, or test their tastebuds with three mystery wines at Wine Selectors Secret Sips. Kids get their own slice of the action at Little Baker

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

What do Queen, Adele, Sia, Paul Simon, Guns N’ Roses, Avicii, Katy Perry and John Farnham all have in common? Their hit songs are all part of The Choir of Man. And the award-nominated musical is coming back to Melbourne for an exciting three-week limited run next year. Musical spectacular The Choir of Man is bringing its feel-good vibes back to Melbourne, taking over Crown Live from February 3–21, 2027. Set inside a traditional English pub, this Olivier Award-nominated hit brings its talented performers together for almost two hours of foot-stomping anthems, energetic tap dancing, plenty of cheeky banter – and even a working beer tap.    Photograph: The Other RichardThe Choir of Man     Directed by Nic Doodson, characters feature archetypes like The Barman (Mark Loveday), Maestro (Ifan Gwilym-Jones), Beast (Cal T King), The Joker (Conor Mellor), and The Pub Bore. The high-energy soundtrack jumps between rock classics, pop favourites, folk tunes and Broadway hits, giving you plenty of reasons to sing along. Expect big voices, infectious energy and a hefty dose of humour in this celebration of mateship and the magic of music. Whether you’re a musical theatre fan or simply after a fun, wholesome night out, round up your mates and book your tickets to The Choir of Man. The Choir of Man runs from February 3–21, 2027 at Crown Live. Get your tickets here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. RECOMME

In Persian, darband means gateway or door to the mountains – a fitting name for Darband Restaurant, which reopened in summer 2025, just around the corner from where it stood for two decades. When you step inside, you’ll be greeted with a warm “Befarmaeed dakhel” – “welcome, come in” – and you’ll notice the arched doorways.  The new space is bigger with timber and brass accents, while the walls are lined with family photographs. After all, founder Morteza Hemmati opened the original, no-frills Darband with his wife in Auburn in 2005; they have now passed on the reins to their children, Naseem and Hasan, who want to honour the past while reimagining what Persian dining in Sydney can be. Photograph: Vincent YeungNaseem and Hasan That spirit carries through to the food – simple, generous and full of flavour. Kebabs are a mainstay: juicy, smoky and straight off the grill. Choose between lamb kebabs in minced (koobideh), backstrap (barg) or cutlet form (sishlik), or try the chicken kebabs with wings or thighs. Better yet, get a sampling of everything with the Darband Special – a mixed kebab plate that’s been on the menu since day dot.  Photograph: Vincent YeungMeat skewers at Darband Tradition and nostalgia seep through the generous piles of saffron rice studded with barberries and dusted with tangy sumac. Of course, there’s the ghormeh sabzi; a staple in every Irani home, it’s a mixed herb stew with lamb, kidney beans and dried lemons served with saffron rice.  Make sure to fi

If you’re ever on Liverpool Road in Enfield, let your nose lead you to Mt Lewis Pizzeria where the aroma of freshly baked manoush wafts out. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because the Tarraf family already has two other Mt Lewis Pizzeria restaurants in Sydney’s West. Now, they’ve brought their Lebanese food to the Inner West. This 80-seat restaurant is their most personal yet, filled with family, culture and the flavours of Lebanon. After Tony and Nelly Tarraf migrated to Australia, they opened Mt Lewis Pizzeria in 2005, giving locals a taste of Lebanese cuisine. Today, their son Jason – known online as ‘The Manoush Man’ – is leading the charge, but mum Nelly is still rolling the dough and dad Tony is still part of the action. It’s food made by family for family.  What’s manoush? Think of it as Lebanese pizza – thin, crispy dough topped with ingredients such as za’atar, cheese or meat, then cooked on a traditional saj (a domed hotplate). At the centre of the restaurant is an open kitchen where you’ll get a front-row seat to the action.  You’ll be glad to know that favourites like za’atar manoush, Lebanese banquets, cheese explosion, and money bags are all on the menu. And the manoush made using the same dough recipe the family has used for more than two decades.  Photograph: SuppliedThe Tarraf family at Mt Lewis Pizzeria, Enfield The interiors feel like you’re stepping into a Lebanese home. Limestone brought over from Lebanon features throughout the space, while bright b

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

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

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