Alison Rodericks

It’s one of the first places you’ll visit as a tourist, a pre-theatre go-to, and home to some of the most iconic views in the world – but being a tourist hotspot means Circular Quay is not without its pitfalls. Thankfully, apart from the overpriced tourist traps, there’s still great eating and drinking to be had in the area if you know where to look. We’ve rounded up the best restaurants and bars in and around the harbour, from flash fine diners like Aria and Bennelong to Basque-inspired wine bar Deux Frères, cheap-and-cheerful spots like Mary’s and Belles Hot Chicken, top-notch watering holes Opera Bar and Apollonia, and newcomer Flaminia. There’s a mix of price points and cuisines, but they’re all ace (unlike the annoying seagulls) – and somewhere you’d want to bring your friends from overseas. Plus, keep this guide handy for when Vivid takes over the city for 23 spectacular nights. 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. After restaurants in other parts of Sydney's city? Check out our guide to the best restaurants in the CBD. Want more? Check out our ultimate guide to the best restaurants in Sydney here.

Long before the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, Sydney was home to the world’s oldest living culture. The Gadigal people of the Eora Nation were the original custodians of the land that stretches along the southern shores of Port Jackson – now known as Sydney Harbour – from South Head to Petersham. Across the wider Sydney region, around 29 clan groups made up the Eora Nation, living by the harbour, rivers and coastline for tens of thousands of years. While colonisation dramatically changed the landscape and lives of Aboriginal communities, culture, connection to Country and storytelling have endured. Today, Sydneysiders and visitors can experience Sydney's indigenous heritage through a deeper lens by joining any of these Aboriginal-led tours that share ancient knowledge, Dreamtime stories, bush tucker traditions and the enduring spiritual connection First Nations peoples have with this land. 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: Want to learn more? These are things you'd know if you're an Aboriginal cultural tour guide. Plus, where to see Aboriginal art in Sydney.

Is there any better feeling than receiving a message from your mates on a sunny afternoon asking if you’re down for a pint? It’s easily one of life's greatest pleasures. While everyone loves their local, sometimes venturing out to discover the best pubs in Perth is precisely what the crew needs. To help you plan your next crawl, Time Out contributors have done their fair share of pub-hopping and rounded up the best spots to hit up next time a catch-up is in order. From rowdy Irish alehouses to breezy beachside Perth pubs, this curated list tracks down the city's finest watering holes.  Editor's favourite pubs in Perth: 💦 Best for beachside vibes: Cottesloe Beach Hotel 🍸 Best for after-work drinks: Queens Tavern 🎸 Best for live music: Rosemount Hotel 📝 Best for trivia night: Subiaco Hotel For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍹 The best rooftop bars in Perth🍷 More of the best CBD bars for drinks in Perth

With each passing year, Sydney’s skyline is being redefined – steel and glass structures are climbing higher, reshaping the harbour’s familiar outline. And while progress is part of any great city’s story, there’s a quiet urgency to protect the structures that give Sydney its soul – the sandstone facades, the ornate arcades, the bold experiments that once defined their era. Architecture literally shapes our city. The buildings that endure – from the grand to the quietly iconic – are more than just beautiful buildings; they are markers of memories and milestones while everything around us is changing so rapidly. Here’s our list of the buildings in Sydney that make us take a second look, from grand colonial houses to post-modern marvels. Our advice? Make sure to visit at least one of them very soon. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:  The prettiest public gardens in Sydney The top 20 tourist attractions in Sydney The best things to do in Sydney this weekend

Autumn 2026 update: Enjoy the change of seasons at one of Sydney’s cracking pubs. From sun-dappled beer gardens to refreshing pints and heart-warming roasts, these pubs are warm, welcoming spaces built for a good time – and even better if they’re pokie-free. Below, we’ve rounded up the best of the best. 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 Hotel ☀️ Best for a sunny beer garden: Courthouse Hotel 🍽️ Best for top-notch feed: The Dry Dock 🎸 Best for live music: The Lord Gladstone 🔖 Best for mid-week trivia: The Golden Barley 🍻 Best for a post-surf beer: Harbord Hotel 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. Hungry? Check out our ultimate guide to Sydney's best restaurants. 

All rise! Hobart’s bakery scene is producing some of the most buttery, expertly laminated pastries our nation has ever seen. From flaky, filled croissants and savoury Tasmanian scallop pies to seasonal danishes and long-fermented sourdough, the Apple Isle's capital is a true pilgrimage site for carb lovers. Many of the best bakeries in Hobart have spent decades perfecting their craft, collecting a loyal following along the way. Our team of local Time Out writers has pounded the pavement (and sampled countless crusts) to bring you this definitive guide of Hobart's best bakeries right now. Whether you’re a long-time local or just popping into town, there's bound to be the perfect pastry for you. Editor's favourite bakeries in Hobart: 🥐 Best croissants: Queens Pastry 🥧 Best pies: Jackman & McRoss ⭐️ Best morning buns: Pigeon Whole Bakers ☕️ The best cafés in Hobart🍽 The best restaurants in Hobart

Canberra is home to an impressive array of bakeries that rise to the occasion early each morning to perfect their craft. From crusty baguettes and pillowy brioche buns to hot-from-the-oven pies and custard-oozing danishes, we're spoilt for choice when it comes to carb-loving baked goodies. Our Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, spent four years living in the ACT, scouring every corner from the buzzy main strip of Braddon to the lakeside charm of Kingston to find the city's tastiest baked goods. Do yourself a favour and start eating your way through her definitive list of the best bakeries in Canberra. You won't regret it.   Editor's favourite bakeries in Canberra 🇫🇷 Best French bakery: L'épi Artisan Bakery 🥯 Best cardamom buns: Under Bakery 🥐 Best croissants: Three Mills For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines.  🍽️ The best cafés in Canberra☕️ The best coffee shops in Canberra

We love our bread, we love our butter, but most of all, we love our croissants, cruffins and caramel slice… It’s hard to pick a favourite child from Perth’s baked goods scene that seems to be getting bigger and better all the time. Follow your nose and join the queue for everything from rustic sourdough loaves and savoury sausage rolls to fruit tarts glistening in the display case and perfectly laminated croissants. We gave Time Out Australia's Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley the almighty task of rounding up the best bakeries in Perth – and she was only too happy to do some carb loading. Sampling her way around retro beachside bakeries and modernist city spots, she came up with this list. Dig in! Editor’s favourite bakeries in Perth 🥖 Best bread: Common Bakery  🥐 Best French-style pastries: Chu Bakery 🥯 Best cinnamon scrolls: North Street Store For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍽️ Best cafés in Perth☕️ Best coffee shops in Perth

Calling all sweet tooths and savoury fans alike: Brisbane's bakery scene is bursting with innovative, tastebud-popping pastry sensations to make your heart go boom. Whether you're hunting for the perfect crusty sourdough or a world-class croissant, you’ve been warned – you won’t be able to stop at just one serving. Our team of Brisbane-based writers has tapped into their network of hospitality insiders and local foodies to find the spots that are truly defining the city’s bakery scene. We've considered everything from the lamination of a croissant to the complex tang of a 72-hour sourdough to bring you this definitive guide to the best bakeries in Brisbane right now. Happy eating! Editor's favourite bakeries in Brisbane: 🥐 Best croissants: Lune 🥖 Best baguettes: Flour & Chocolate ⭐️ Best buns: Time & Temp ☕️ The best coffee shops in Brisbane🍽 The best cafés in Brisbane

You’ll have plenty of reasons to rise and shine in Brisbane. With an array of the Sunshine State’s finest cafés and some of Australia’s highest calibre coffee roasters, choosing where to go first is an unexpected (but fun) challenge.  To help you find your new favourite, our local food writers and Time Out's Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, have collated this guide to Brisbane’s best cafés, tried and tested. From hidden laneway gems and suburban corner stores to quirky Vietnamese spots, we've got you covered. All that’s left for you to do is eat your way through it. Editor's favourite cafés in Brisbane: 🥑 Best CBD brunch spot:  Felix for Goodness 😋 Best for fusion brunch: Café Disco ☕️ Best for specialty drinks: Kin For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines.  🍽 Best restaurants in Brisbane🥐 Brisbane's best bakeries☕️ Brisbane's top coffee spots

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.

Sydney has a bewildering range of eateries and cuisines, with almost every style of restaurant and region of the world represented. Many of them are looking to serve you and the people of Sydney for the cheapest price possible, you just need to know where to look. Choosing the best cheap eats is like picking the greatest songs ever made, there are countless options, and everyone will have a different opinion. Compiled by a team of local Time Out experts, this list brings together eateries from all regions of Sydney, with each pick being an outstanding option for that cuisine or style of eating. It’s not the cheapest meals in Sydney, but the best affordable options. We’ve tried, as best as possible, to include only venues where you can get a meal for one for under $25. 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. Want to spend less at the big-ticket players? Check out our cheap fine-dining hacks.

Removing a record from its sleeve, lowering the needle and waiting for that first crackle before the music begins – there’s nothing quite like listening to a vinyl record. In a world of instant streaming and digital music, old-style music formats offer something richer and wonderfully tactile. If you love the thrill of crate-digging at record stores, this one’s for you. The Independent Music Exchange is taking over Northcote Town Hall on June 6 and 7. This free, two-day event is a celebration of independent labels, physical formats and the passionate communities that keep them spinning. More than 50 imprints from across the country will transform the venue into a music lover’s dream – think vinyl, cassettes, rare test pressings, magazines, merch and plenty of artist-signed finds you won’t find anywhere else. Originally launched as part of The Eighty-Six Festival in 2023, the Independent Music Exchange has since evolved into a standalone event, led by independent label owners Michael Kucyk (Efficient Space), Maryos Syawish and Corey Kikos (Butter Sessions). At its core, it brings together labels and fans, artists and audiences, fostering collaboration across Australia’s independent music scene. Expect to see some of the country’s most exciting labels behind the stalls, including Poison City Records, Chapter Music, Hobbies Galore, Music in Exile, Room40 and Third Eye Stimuli Records – a vibrant snapshot of the diversity and creativity driving the local scene. New for 2026, the

What do Laura Jones, Julia Gutman and Blak Douglas have in common? They’re all celebrated Archibald Prize winners – and they’ve all created and donated original artworks for the Incognito Art Show. And at just $100 a piece, you just might be able to get your paws on one of their works. Returning to Carriageworks Sydney from June 27, the Incognito Art Show has around 20,000 original artworks by more than 15,000 artists. All A5 in size, they're up for grabs at very affordable price of just $100 each. And while the show also heads to Brisbane and Townsville, the Sydney collection is by far the biggest. Just sayin’.  Now, are you ready for the plot twist? The artist remains a mystery until after you’ve bought the artwork. Yes, the artist stays anonymous before purchase, with their name and signature revealed on the reverse side once the artwork is yours. So unless you’ve got the eye of a seasoned gallery curator, you’re choosing pieces purely because you gravitate towards them – not because there’s a famous name attached. Who knows, you could walk away with a work by an emerging artist whose career is about to take off or unknowingly snag something by one of Australia’s most acclaimed names.  What’s more, the event supports artists with disabilities – 100 per cent of profits go towards their professional development. In 2026, funds raised will support Studio A in North Sydney, The Art Factory in Wagga Wagga and Access Arts in Brisbane. "Incognito has cemented itself as a key date

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 first artist announcement has just been made for the 2026 program, with the red-hot line-up set to include: Dee Dee Bridgewater and Helen Sung: Hamer Hall, October 24Three-time Grammy Award winner Dee Dee Bridgewater returns to Melbourne after a decade away. Renowned for her bold phrasing, scat flair and reinterpretations of the Great American Songbook, she joins pianist Helen Sung for an intimate duet performance. Sung, a Guggenheim Fellow, blends lyrical sensitivity with intricate harmonic ideas, moving fluidly between jazz and classical influences. At Hamer Hall, they promise an expressive set spanning Ellington, Sondheim and more, with plenty of improvisational dialogue. Tigran Hamasyan: Melbourne Recital Centre, October 23Armenian pianist and composer Tigran Hamasyan brings his genre-fusing sound back to MIJF with Manifeste. He blends jazz improvisation with progressive rock energy and Armenian folk motifs. At the Melbourne Recital Centre, expect a set that moves between structured composition and improvisation. The Bad Plus: Melbourne Recital Centre, October 21Boundary-pushing collective The Bad Plus return for their final Australian appearance on their

This year, Vivid is once again going beyond Circular Quay and lighting up one of Sydney’s trendiest inner city neighbourhoods, Hollywood Quarter in Surry Hills. It's one massive night of food, music and after-dark fun and it all goes down on Saturday, May 30 from 4pm until 4am the next morning. Our advice? Arrive hungry, stay late and get set to party. First up, A Taste of HQ: Street Eats Edition, a one-night-only street food festival across Surry Hills’ Foster and Hunt Streets. Some of Sydney’s best chefs serve up an alfresco food feast from 4pm until 11pm. We’re talking Lennox Hastie (Firedoor and Gildas), Lakhan Bhounsie (Nomad), Nelly Robinson (Nel), Julian Cincotta (Butter), Matthew MacLeod (Chin Chin), Josh Raine (40Res), Remy Davis (Bessie’s), Michael Shafran (Brooklyn Boy Bagels) and Isobel Whelan-Little (Ace Hotel Sydney). The area will be pedestrian-only as these local restaurants dish out hand-held bites designed specifically for the event. Picture a burger in one hand and a refreshing bevvy in the other. There’s also outdoor bars, roaming performers and live music throughout the evening, giving the whole precinct the feel of a giant block party.  As for entertainment, from 10pm through until 4am, HQ After Hours takes over the area’s coolest venues with a late-night program of DJs, live music, immersive performances and club nights. Butter Sydney and Common House will host a dance music takeover led by some of Western Sydney’s most exciting DJs, while Kiln’s roofto

What do you get when you cross cheese with high tea? You get High Cheese – an indulgent cheese-centric experience returning to the Westin Melbourne for its third year. Taking over the hotel’s Allegro Restaurant from May 26 to October 17, this ever-popular event sees executive chef Apoorva Kunte joining forces with Richmond specialty cheese shop Supercheese, plus Punt Road Wines for a celebration of cheese and wine. High Cheese gives your traditional high tea a delicious spin with a three-tiered menu that shines the spotlight on cheese. Think sweet and savoury bites with expertly paired wines – all designed to showcase the versatility of great (or should we say, ‘grate’?) fromage. It’s a brie-lliant excuse to spend an afternoon grazing. Supercheese owner Jeremy Spradbery has selected cheeses for their quality, provenance and personality, drawing from niche local and international producers. Guests will move through a  progression of creations by chef Kunte, including a shared centrepiece and a final sweet offering, paired with a glass of Punt Road wine. “Supercheese has an incredible eye for producers with real character,” says Kunte. “For us, it’s about showcasing cheese in a way that feels elevated, unexpected and true to the ingredient.” To keep things fresh, the experience will evolve mid-season with a refreshed menu launching in August – which gives you a gouda reason to return. High Cheese at Allegro Restaurant is available every Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm onwards un

NGV Friday Nights is returning to kick-start your weekend with a glamorous glow-up. Taking place from June 12 to October 2, the National Gallery of Victoria will become the ultimate after-dark destination with the arrival of Cartier, the 2026 Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition – yes, that's the same French luxury brand known for its designer jewellery and watches.  NGV Friday Nights is your chance to wander through the gallery and enjoy a rotating line-up of live music, film screenings, food and, of course, Champagne. Each Friday brings a completely different vibe, with music residencies hosted by some of Melbourne’s biggest cultural names including the MSO, Melbourne International Jazz Festival, Waxflower and Wax Museum Records. Expect everything from jazz and soul to classical performances and DJs, with artists including Olivia Excuses, Yunior Terry Quartet, DJ Earl Grey, Plexus and the MSO Cello Quartet taking the stage. Opera lovers are also in for a treat. Across two nights (June 12 and September 11), Melbourne Opera will present Diamonds for the Diva – a special tribute to legendary Australian soprano Dame Nellie Melba GBE, who was one of Cartier’s early clients. Some of Melba’s Cartier jewels and memorabilia are also featured in the exhibition. Adding to the glamour are film screenings of classics including The Great Gatsby (July 31) and High Society (August 14), plus Fast Friends sessions with Alliance Française de Melbourne held on the third Friday of each mont

Dreading winter? Here’s something to brighten your mood: Rising, Melbourne's annual festival of art, music, dance and performance, returns from May 27 to June 8 – and the final part of the program has just been announced. “Free art after dark, fresh live music, late-night dining and artist-led conversations, clubs and lounges create even more doorways into the festival’s expansive program of new art, stories, music and dance,” says Rising artistic director and CEO, Hannah Fox. ‘l’ Opening weekend sees Fed Square and Hamer Hall transformed by ‘Midéegaadi’, a spectacular projection and sound installation by Native American artist Cannupa Hanska Luger. Originally shown in New York’s Times Square, the projections will illuminate both sites as part of Calling Country: The Land Speaks Back, alongside works by Djirri Djirri Women's Dance Group. Relax in deck chairs with hot drinks and First Nations food while soaking up the atmosphere beneath the city lights. Fed Square will also host one of the festival’s most intriguing experiences: Sapporo Supper Club: Chīsai 小, the world’s smallest ramen-ya. Running Thursday to Saturday throughout the festival, this tiny dining space seats just two guests at a time for Hokkaido-style ramen and expertly poured Sapporo beer.  Hungry for more? Moon Bites returns with a late-night dining trail designed for pre- and post-show meals. Venues including Cathedral Coffee, Mr Mills, Melbourne Supper Club, Dom's Social Club and Bottega will serve exclusive

Crisp autumn days are made for drinking in gorgeous Sydney harbour views while you drink a glass of wine, don’t you think? And that’s exactly what you'll be doing at the 2026 Pyrmont Festival. Returning to Pirrama Park on May 23-24 for its 14th year, this much-loved free festival transforms the waterfront into a lively community celebration of food, wine and fun. What can you expect? How about more than 30 wineries, breweries and distilleries from across NSW giving Sydneysiders the chance to sip and sample their way through regions like the Hunter Valley, Orange, Mudgee and the South Coast without leaving the city. Expect standout pours from Petersons Wines, Hungerford Hill, Tamburlaine Organic Wines, Cuppit's Estate, Hungerford Hill, Tulloch Wines and Robert Stein, alongside craft brews from White Bay Beer Co and spirits from Finders Distillery. And the food truck line-up is just as tempting. Feast on everything from paella by Sofrito Paella and pillowy pasta from The Gnocchi Way to woodfired sandwiches from Eat Ozzo (one of our Time Out Food & Drink Award nominees) and sweet treats from the iconic Famous Berry Donut Van. There’ll also be artisan produce stalls selling cheeses, salami, honey, olives, chocolates and other gourmet goodies to take home. Pyrmont Festival keeps the atmosphere buzzing with live music across two stages, art and health workshops, plus kids’ entertainment in the form of a bouncy castle, face painting and even mini golf. Best of all, it’s family-frien

Located on Dee Why’s main strip, Ullo – from Oi Hospitality (also behind Banco Manly and Corretto Dee Why) – serves up fresh seafood and vibey cocktails right on the beach. Ullo is keen to bring the freshest seafood to the Northern Beaches with the likes of calamari fritti, raw tuna tostada, charcoal king prawns and hibachi charred octopus occupying pride of place on the menu. Weekends are the perfect time to indulge in their seafood platters – with pretty spesh views of Dee Why Beach to match. Love pizza? They've got you sorted with red-hot artisanal pizzas, all with that perfect char. Indeed, they've brought on award-winning pizza master Enrico Sgarbossa to be the dough slayer. Highlights include the ‘puffy pepperoni’ with ’nduja, tomato, pepperoni and jalapenos as well as the the truffle potato and sausage. Delish. The booze menu has been created by owner Kurtis Bosley, venue manager Dan Ashby and bar manager Christian, and there’s a big focus on aperitivo-style drinking. So expect fun, fresh and fruity cocktails to get the evening started, like the Davidson Plum Spritz or the Ullo Spicy Marg. The wine list is natural-leaning and features small-scale local producers, as well as drops from international vintners. They have a great daily happy hour from 4-6pm, and an even better weekend happy hour, 3-6pm.  Weekends are made for their Festa bottomless lunch from noon. So it’s a no brainer, really: to Ullo we go. RECOMMENDED: These are the best pizza joints in Sydney right now

What do the Astor Theatre, Palais Theatre, JMC Academy, Victorian Pride Centre and St Kilda Town Hall have in common? They’re all key venues for the much-anticipated St Kilda Film Festival (SKFF). Running from June 4-14, Australia’s longest-running short film festival returns with a packed program of more than 190 flicks, celebrating the depth and diversity of Australian cinema. Expect everything from sharp comedies and gripping horror to thought-provoking experimental works, many featuring some of Australia’s most exciting talent. The festival opens in style with a red carpet gala at the Palais Theatre on June 4, followed by St Kilda Rocks at the Astor Theatre on June 5 – it's a pairing of two iconic documentaries (Punkline and Last Drinks) that explore the legacy of two local venues.  As for the short films, there’s Baby Shower starring Hugo Weaving; The CEO, directed by Michael Cusack; The Shirt Off Your Back, directed by David Robinson-Smith; All Day Breakfast by Rachel Ko; Calm the F**k Down by Helen Gaynor; Songbird by Kevin Lim; and While We Still Have Time directed by Ava Grimshaw-Hall, to mention just a few.  All the familiar favourites return in 2026, including the laugh-out-loud Australian Comedy Showcase (June 5); Pride Without Prejudice (June 13) that celebrates LGBTQIA+ voices; Shifting The Gaze that highlights films by women and gender-diverse filmmakers; and Under The Radar, the competition that champions young filmmakers.  The Big Picture (June 6), presented

Get ready, Frankston – your autumn social calendar has had a glow-up. The South Side Festival is back from May 8-17 for ten dazzling nights of art, culture and community spirit by the bay. Across the Frankston Arts Centre, Cube 37, Beauty Park, the foreshore and beyond, this festival blends free and ticketed events for locals and visitors alike. Think immersive light installations, live performances and hands-on workshops. Neon Fields returns for its third year, transforming Beauty Park into a glowing playground of light from May 8-10 from 5pm onwards. It’s free, it’s magical and it’s guaranteed to draw a crowd of after-dark adventurers. Other highlights include In Common by One Fell Swoop Circus, where six acrobats explore the limits of trust and tension in a breathtaking physical performance; and Human Love Quest, a hilarious live dating show at Cube 37. Families will love the enchanting shadow puppetry of Kiki and Zuki, while Shan Gao Shui Chang blends contemporary dance and Chinese water painting in an exploration of migration and identity. A unique event is Live Cinema by Michael Beets, where a feature film is created in real time on stage by the crew of talented local youth, guided by industry pros. Get your Speedos ready to dive into the South Side Sea Soak on May 9 at 7.45am. Yes, it will be freezing, but it will be fun and it’s taking place outside the Frankston Life Saving Club.  Other must-see, must-dos include a sustainable clothes swap; a mass crochet session (ge

Footscray after dark? That’s when things get really interesting, especially with the return of the Sleepless Footscray Festival. From May 15-17, Trugo Lane lights up with a three-day, late-night celebration of music, art and community spirit.  Across the weekend, the car park, laneway and nine shopfronts will be transformed into a buzzing, multi-stage playground with more than 60 artists bringing the precinct to life through live music, immersive performances, visual art, installations and hands-on workshops. Think everything from live street painting and experimental theatre to film screenings and even a fashion showcase. The main stage serves up an eclectic mix – alt-rock, punk, jazz, rap, R'n'B and afrobeats – while the Irving Hub keeps things pulsing into the early hours with forward-thinking electronic sounds. There’s also plenty to explore between sets, including roaming performers, gallery spaces, local food vendors and Little Africa market stalls. Artists appearing across the weekend include Gusto Gusto, Ag Angenth Ayom, Vanessa Estrada, Asinine and Naive Atom, alongside visual and performance works from Nxngtn, Gusteenee, Sausage Woman, Anna Luna, Rubyanna Edwards, Nat Thomas Steer and Mammet. At its heart, the Sleepless Footscray Festival is a volunteer-led, not-for-profit festival championing emerging and independent artists across Melbourne’s west. It’s about reimagining everyday spaces, celebrating diversity and bringing people together for three unforgettable ni

Winter is coming – and so too is the event that takes over the city in the best possible way: Vivid Sydney 2026. For 23 electric nights, Sydney trades gloomy evenings for glowing harbour foreshores, kaleidoscopic projections, immersive art, live music, big ideas and delicious dining experiences. Now one of the world’s most celebrated light festivals, Vivid Sydney 2026 promises to turn the Harbour City into a giant after-dark wonderland. Whether you’re a local who always attends Vivid, planning an interstate getaway or flying in from overseas, here’s our guide on the best things to see and do at Vivid Sydney 2026. When is Vivid Sydney 2026? Vivid Sydney 2026 will run from Friday, May 22 until Saturday, June 13, 2026. Every evening, the city lights up from 6pm to 11pm, giving you plenty of time to wander, explore and soak up the atmosphere. Vivid Sydney 2026 unfolds across five zones – Circular Quay and The Rocks, Darling Harbour, Barangaroo, Sydney CBD, Sydney Opera House and Carriageworks.   Photograph: Supplied | Destination NSW What are the main attractions at Vivid Sydney 2026? Let's start with the biggest drawcard: the Sydney Opera House. This time, French artist Yann Nguema's Opera Mundi will light up the sails. Inspired by nature, movement and the elemental forces behind Jørn Utzon’s architectural masterpiece, the projection promises to be one of the festival’s must-see moments. Just opposite, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) lights up with Sāmoan-Australian artis

I’m in what I call the “busy stage” of life. Weekdays disappear in a blur of work, school drop-offs, after-school activities and an ever-growing to-do list, while weekends seem to end almost as soon as they begin. My husband and I were craving a chance to relax and reconnect. So when the opportunity came up to take a four-day, three-night cruise from Sydney to Nouméa with Norwegian Cruise Line, we said yes – despite always thinking that cruising was something we’d do once we were retired empty-nesters. As it turns out, a short cruise was exactly the reset we didn’t know we needed. If you’re in your forties or fifties and have never considered a cruise, or if you have sailed before but normally with all the kids and chaos that most cruises offer, this might just change your mind. Passports in hand, we arrive at the Overseas Passenger Terminal at our allotted time. The process is effortless. Staff guide us from one point to the next – immigration, bag drop, security – until we’re heading to our room. Holiday mode: on.Time Out advice: You must arrive at your designated boarding time – it keeps everything flowing smoothly. Our balcony stateroom becomes our home at sea, perfect for a morning sea breeze, afternoons watching the endless horizon and nights under a sky full of stars. The compact room is cleverly designed with everything we need – a TV, a bar fridge, hangers for clothes and amenities in the bathroom.Time Out tip: Take a moment to learn the ship’s layout and a few nauti

You swing open the door and take in that familiar hum of chatter and laughter, a footy game on the big screen, the clink of glasses and the unmistakable whiff of hops. You scan the menu – but you already know what you’re going to order. Because let’s be honest, when you walk into a pub, you’re here for the classics. According to data from ALH Hotels and their rewards platform pub+, which tracked orders across more than 350 of their venues nationwide, Australians are creatures of habit when it comes to pub grub. And really, who can blame us? Pubs are places where the music is nostalgic, the conversation is easy, the drinks are ice-cold and the food is hearty. No wonder, then, that the undisputed champion – the most ordered meal in pubs across the country – is the chicken parmigiana. Photograph: Supplied / Standard Hotel Parmi or parma, it doesn’t matter what you call it – chicken parmigiana is Australia’s favourite pub meal. You know the one: a crispy chicken schnitzel, smothered in rich Napoli sauce and topped with bubbling, golden cheese. It’s reliable, it’s satisfying and it’s almost impossible to go past. Australia's second most popular order is a classic chicken schnitzel (think parmi, minus the sauce and cheese), followed by a steak, a steak sandwich and a southern fried chicken burger. Of course, no pub meal is complete without a cold bevvy in hand. Whether you’re perched at the bar or settling into a booth, Australia’s top five pub bevvies are all about easy-drinkin

From colourful coral in the Great Barrier Reef to the ancient canopies of the Daintree Rainforest, Australia feels like nature dialled all the way up. Add the thundering waterfalls of Kakadu National Park, the turquoise waters along Esperance and the rust-red glow of Uluru at sunset, and you've got a landscape that truly stops you in the tracks – and definitely needs protecting.  In great news, Australia is doing just that. Our nation has climbed to fourth place in the 2025 Nature Conservation Index (NCI), jumping from seventh position last year. The NCI assesses 180 countries on how well they protect their natural environment, measuring everything from endangered species and habitat health to conservation policies and future planning. Its four pillars – land management, biodiversity threats, governance and future trends – offer a big-picture view of how nations are tracking. So, what does fourth place mean? In short, Australia is doing a lot right. We scored strongly (82/100) for land management, which assesses how we look after our protected areas (both land and marine) and what sustainable agricultural practices we have in place. Australia also ranked third globally in capacity and governance, which looks at factors like environmental policies and conservation programs. There’s also growing momentum around restoration projects and Indigenous-led land care. Photograph: Tourism Australia | Twilight Beach, Esperance This progress matters because Australia is one of the wor

Feel like going on a holiday? Us, too. But in times of uncertainty, taking a break feels like a guilty pleasure, what with everything from the fuel costs, interest rates and grocery prices constantly rising. Enter our solution to your holiday woes: the one-tank road trip! Camplify – the 'Airbnb of caravans and campervans' – has crunched the numbers and the kilometres to uncover a list of road trips that are just a short drive from Australia's capital cities and easy on the wallet. The one-tank road trip (150-350 kilometres) hits the sweet spot; the destination is just far enough to feel like a getaway yet close enough that your car doesn't guzzle gas. And in Australia, we’re spoilt for choice – from coastal towns and wine regions to national parks and rural countryside, some of the country’s best destinations are within a few hours of our major cities. Photograph: Supplied | CamplifyJetty Beach Campground From Sydney CBD Patonga Beach (180km return), campsite: Patonga Caravan and Camping Area Hunter Valley (320km return), campsite: Wine Country Tourist Park Blue Mountains (200km return), campsite: Katoomba Falls Tourist Park Royal National Park (60km return), campsite: Bonnie Vale Campground From Melbourne CBD Warburton (150km return), campsite: Warburton Holiday Park Daylesford (230km return), campsite: Jubilee Lake Holiday Park Phillip Island (280km return), campsite: BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island Point Leo (180km return), campsite: Point Leo Foreshore Reserve

Hobart’s boundary-pushing Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is about to get bigger and bolder. This June, MONA is set to unveil a brand-new wing, complete with a statement library that’s been a decade in the making. With a price tag north of $100 million, the project brings together Aussie architect Nonda Katsalidis, German artist Anselm Kiefer and MONA’s enigmatic founder David Walsh. Dubbed the Phrontisterion (Ancient Greek for 'thinkery'), Walsh describes it as his “dream library” – though don’t expect hushed halls or the Dewey Decimal Classification. This is MONA, after all. The subterranean space sits beneath 'Elektra', Kiefer’s monumental amphitheatre, originally built at his studio in southern France. Inside, Walsh’s personal and very eclectic collection of rare books, historic manuscripts, maps and paraphernalia offers a glimpse into his mind. As MONA librarian Mary Lijnzaad puts it, "If you want to know what David is really like, browse his bookshelves." To understand how we got here, it’s worth rewinding. Walsh grew up in Tasmania, just down the road from where MONA now sits on the banks of the River Derwent. After dropping out of university, he turned to professional gambling and became a multi-millionaire. In 2011, he channelled that success into MONA – a cultural offering designed to share his eclectic private art collection and, by his own admission, ease a touch of “gambler’s guilt”. What started as a largely overlooked antiquities museum has since evolved into

With the cost of living biting at home, Australians are getting a little savvier about how – and where – they travel. The upside? A stronger dollar is quietly working in our favour, opening up destinations where your money stretches further without skimping on the good stuff. To help guide your next holiday, Tristan Dakin, ANZ country manager at Wise, has provided us with an insider shortlist of five incredible countries where the Australian dollar is delivering serious value right now. So skip the expenny Euro-summer this year, and take your pick from these beautifully diverse destinations. Your travel budget will thank us later! Photograph: Rommel Paras via Unsplash Philippines If your idea of a holiday involves turquoise waters and island-hopping, the Philippines is calling. The Australian dollar is the highest it's ever been against the Philippine peso in more than ten years. With 7,000 islands to choose from, you can go luxe in Boracay, chase adventure in Palawan or surf your way through Siargao – all while making the most of a favourable exchange rate. The welcome is warm and English is widely spoken. While transport logistics can be a little tricky, sticking to one or two islands keeps things smooth and budget-friendly. India Chaotic yet completely captivating, India rewards travellers who go a little beyond the obvious. Yes, icons like the Taj Mahal in Agra and Hawa Mahal in Jaipur still dazzle, and the beaches of South Goa are perennially popular, but it’s in pla

There’s a lot of the wrong kind of “wild” going on in the world right now, and in the face of all of that, it’s natural to crave the sense of calm that washes over you when you’re a few hours into a mega bushwalk or gentle wander through the park. Time spent in nature is good for the body and great for the mind – it lowers stress, improves mood and boosts creativity – it’s little wonder then that nature-first travel is booming in 2026. According to Google Trends, searches for the 'greenest city in the world' have massively surged over the past year. Travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer vibrant urban experiences as well as botanical gardens and city parks. If you're dreaming of a nature-filled escape, a new Green City Index has just ranked the world’s most nature-rich cities – and Sydney is among them. The researchers evaluated cities around the globe on three key factors: the percentage of overall greenery, the share of accessible public green space and local air quality levels. After crunching the numbers, Sydney ranked at number six on the list – with 46 per cent of public park space, including the Royal Botanic Garden and Centennial Parklands, acting as its 'green lungs'. We’ve also got stunning national parks bordering the city – with the Blue Mountains National Park to the west, the Royal National Park to the south, Sydney Harbour National Park dotted across the harbour, and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Lane Cove National Park and Garigal Natio

You know that feeling of calm that washes over you when you go on a big bush walk or a relaxed stroll through a park? Time spent in nature is good for the body and great for the mind – it lowers stress, improves mood and boosts creativity.  It’s little wonder then that nature-first travel is booming in 2026. According to Google Trends, searches for the 'greenest city in the world' have massively surged over the past year. Travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer vibrant urban experiences as well as botanical gardens and city parks. If you're dreaming of a nature-filled escape, a new Green City Index has just ranked the world’s most nature-rich cities – and two are right here in Australia. The researchers evaluated cities around the globe on three key factors: the percentage of overall greenery, the share of accessible public green space and local air quality levels. After crunching the numbers, Canberra claimed the title of the fifth greenest city on Earth, earning an overall score of 58.7 and an elite air quality score of 11 – the third-best, behind Oslo (ranked first overall) and Helsinki (ranked third). Photograph: Tourism Australia | National Arboretum Often dubbed the 'Bush Capital', Canberra preserves around 45 per cent of its territory as protected national parks and reserves – so you're never far from a patch of grass or nature trail. Designed in 1913 as a garden city, it balances urban living with nature, centred around the picturesque Lake Burl

While you might know that Melbourne was recently crowned the world’s best city, do you know which area is leading the charge in terms of urban growth? Spoiler: it’s Melbourne’s western 'burbs. Once barely on people's property radar, this area is now the fastest-growing region in Australia.  According to a new report by realestate.com.au’s research arm PropTrack and developer Stockland, around one in three new Melbourne residents are choosing to call the west home. And the numbers tell a story. More than 245,000 people have moved into the area over the past decade. By 2046, the population is projected to reach 1.47 million – that’s a whopping 70 per cent increase. What’s driving the surge? In a word: affordability. With a median house price of around $729,000 compared to more than $1 million across Greater Melbourne, the west offers a more accessible way into the property market. For first-home buyers, new arrivals and young families, it’s the most affordable option. Suburbs like Footscray, Sunshine, Werribee, Altona, Williamstown and Melton are seeing strong demand from families, thanks to a mix of new housing developments, expanding infrastructure and job opportunities. Major projects such as the West Gate Tunnel and Suburban Rail Loop are also boosting connectivity, making the area even more appealing. Demographically, the west skews young, with about 77 per cent of households made up of young families, many of them new migrants.  Of course, rapid expansion comes with its c

‘Delmonte’ is Italian for ‘from the mountains’; at Carlton's soon-to-open Delmonte restaurant, the name is a nod to the history, heritage and hospitality of Valli del Pasubio in Italy’s mountainous Veneto region. After all, owner Jamie Valmorbida’s grandfather Carlo was born there. When he moved to Melbourne, Carlo took over the heritage-listed King and Godfree building on Lygon Street in 1955, shaping it into an iconic food destination.  This winter, Delmonte will open its doors inside this very same building, returning to those Italian roots of community, food and wine. The second of three new venues from hospo entrepreneur Valmorbida, Delmonte marks the next chapter in the revival of this historic landmark, which earlier saw the opening of Garfield Pizzeria.  Delmonte leans into something slower and more soulful: a neighbourhood Italian restaurant and wine room built around wood-fired cooking and exceptional wine. At its heart is a wood oven and grill, setting the tone for a menu that’s grounded in the simplicity of a classic Italian osteria, yet open to a more modern interpretation.  Leading the kitchen is head chef Diana Desensi from Daphne (ex-Saint George, Julie, Pt Leo Estate), who also worked alongside culinary director Karen Martini. She’s joined by executive chef Mark Glenn (ex-Cumulus Inc., Pialligo Estate, Dinner by Heston). Together, the team is creating food that feels familiar yet refined. The menu pays quiet tribute to the building’s past as one of Melbourne’

Ever wondered which corner of Sydney wakes up first? If you’re thinking, "It’s got to be the fit folk of Bondi", think again. New research led by Boss Coffee has found the earliest risers in our city live in South West Sydney. How come? Well, the high proportion of tradies in the area has a lot to do with it – the drivers, labourers, machine operators, shift workers and construction crew who keep Sydney running. So while some parts of Sydney wake up to green juices and sunrise yoga, large proportions of South West Sydney are clocking into shift work and early starts in construction, manufacturing and public services.  The Boss Coffee research found South West Sydney's collective alarms go off at 6.04am (average wake-up time). So, spare a thought for these people who are well into their morning when you hit that snooze button.  Coming in second earliest are the LGAs of the City of Sydney and the Inner West, rising at 6.17am on average – followed closely by The Shire and South East Sydney at 6.22am.  To make early starts yummier, the good people at Boss Coffee are rewarding the early birds. From Tuesday, April 21 to Thursday, April 25, a Suntory Boss Café coffee truck will be handing out free new Café Iced Double Espresso and Café Iced Long Black from 5am. They’re teaming up with cult-following bakery Self Raised, who will be slinging free breakfast goodies like savoury croissants, focaccias and Boston cream donuts. Yum. Morgan Loveridge from Suntory Boss Coffee and Future Bra