Alison Rodericks

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.

There’s plenty of delicious reasons to get outside this winter – and Sydney’s hot new bars and restaurants are high on my list. Recently, I’ve been blown away by Ca Phe Mai in Double Bay – it’s a Vietnamese café and wine bar and you should order the juicy lemongrass pork and egg muffin. A cracking new pizza-by-the-slice shop has opened in Darlinghurst from the founder of Bourke St Bakery called Paulie’s Pizza, and Manly has a new underground Irish-inspired bar called The Gopher with black pudding Scotch eggs, open until 3am. 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.

Term two is officially done; now it's time to have some fun! Yep, the winter school holidays are here and the only question racing through every parents' mind is: "How do I keep the kids busy without going crazy myself?" As luck would have it, we've just rounded up all the coolest child-friendly events, festivals, shows and activities to ensure that you never have to hear the kids complain about being bored. If and when the sun comes out to play, grab your chance to visit some of Melbourne's best playgrounds and then swing by the best kid-friendly pubs in Melbourne – for when Mum and Dad need a break. You're welcome. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Looking for more fun? Here's everything happening around Melbourne this weekend. 

Believe it or not, Term 2 is done and the winter school holidays are almost here. And if the thought of hearing the constant refrain of "I'm borrrred!" sends you into a spiral, we've got you covered. If the cold makes you want to stay indoors, we've listed plenty of options to do just that (hello, museums, hobby centres and indoor play zones). But if you're keen to embrace the chill, there's heaps to do around our Harbour City, so grab your puffer jacket and get ready to tick things off from our list of activities and experiences to do this winter.   Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for somewhere affordable to eat out with the kids? Check out our guide to the best cheap eats in Sydney. Or visit these kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

If you missed out on seeing the powerful and deeply moving play, The Jungle and the Sea in 2022, it returns to Belvoir St Theatre from July 11 to August 2. Created by S. Shakthidharan and Eamon Flack, the creative team behind Counting and Cracking, the production tells the story of one family caught in the devastating Sri Lankan civil war, which raged between the Sinhalese-majority government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) from 1983 to 2009, leaving unimaginable death and destruction in its wake. At the heart of the story is Gowrie, a mother desperately trying to reunite her family as violence engulfs her homeland. After an act of destruction tears her loved ones apart, she takes a radical vow of defiance, blindfolding herself and refusing to see the world again until her family is reunited. While she sends her husband and one daughter to Australia for safety, she and her other two daughters search through the jungles of northern Sri Lanka for her estranged son.  Drawn from real-life testimonies and woven with elements of the Mahābhārata and Antigone, the play is both grand in scale and deeply human. Featuring live Carnatic music with a stellar cast including including Bharathanatyam dancer Anandavalli, plus Prakash Belawadi, Nadie Kammallaweera and Shiv Palekar, The Jungle and the Sea is a stirring tale of love and loss in the face of war. The Jungle and the Sea runs from July 11 to August 2 at Belvoir St Theatre. Student tickets from $53; Under 30s from $66

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. 

From glitzy musicals and Shakespearean reimaginings to fresh new plays and laugh-out-loud comedies, Sydney’s theatre scene is packed with reasons to put down the remote and head out. Whether you're after a big night out, a thought-provoking drama or a show that'll leave you grinning all the way home, these are the best theatre shows and musicals to see in Sydney this month. Did you know Australia’s last remaining pub theatre is right here in Sydney? Found below Woolloomooloo's 150-year-old Old Fitzroy Hotel, the Old Fitz Theatre is the place for boundary-pushing shows from some of the city's most talented creatives. If you find yourself with a free night and feel like something different – and supporting indie work – check out what's on here. Scroll on for the best musicals, plays and more to see in Sydney this month. RELATED READS: It’s guaranteed laughs galore at the Comedy Store Make Tuesdays more fun with this affordable comedy show in the Inner West

Yes, Canberra is the place to be for politics and perfectly planned roundabouts, but Australia’s capital does know how to switch into holiday mode. Whether you’re after a swish city stay, a cosy lakeside cottage or a luxe countryside retreat (close to wine country), there’s an Airbnb to suit every kind of getaway. Spend your days gallery- and museum-hopping, exploring local wineries and restaurants, or cycling around Lake Burley Griffin, then return to a stay that's all about rest and relaxation. Here are the best Airbnbs in Canberra for your next capital escape. ⭐️ The best hotels in Canberra🌳 The best things to do in Canberra

Did you know that Perth is the world's most isolated city? It's defined by its incredibly beautiful beaches (nothing beats a Perth sunset), the winding ribbons of the Swan River, the gorgeous greenery of Kings Park and the laid-back West Australian vibe. From the buzzing bars of the CBD and the heritage streets of Fremantle to leafy inner-city neighbourhoods and hilly hideaways, the city caters for every kind of traveller. To save you hours of scrolling, we've curated a guide to some of the best Airbnbs in Perth and its surrounds. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family holiday, a group getaway or a solo staycation, these places will set you up for an unforgettable escape. ⭐️ The best hotels in Perth🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth

Looking for a fun way to switch up your usual catch-up with pals? Melbourne’s many escape rooms will put your problem-solving skills to the test. Whether you’re cracking codes in a haunted mansion, solving a high-stakes heist or racing against the clock to save the world, these immersive experiences drop you straight into the action. Perfect for friends, families, date nights or team building, escape rooms are all about teamwork and quick thinking. With life-like sets and head-scratching puzzles, Melbourne’s escape rooms promise a challenging yet fun-filled day. Never been to an escape room? Feeling nervous about visiting one? Not sure which adventure to choose? Luckily for you, the Time Out team took on the challenge of visiting as many escape rooms as possible – and lived to tell the tale.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Looking for more fun? These are the best things to do in Melbourne before you die.

It’s winter in Sydney. The temperature’s dropping, prices are rising, and even your group chats are going quiet. In times like these – when a single round can cost an arm and a leg – we’re especially grateful for a good happy hour. It’s the perfect excuse to rug up, clock off work a little early and settle in somewhere cosy, where the conversation flows and the drinks do, too. From affordable bevvies and bargain bites to discounted cocktails, wines and schooners, Sydney’s happy hour scene is here to lift your spirits without draining your bank account. Whether you’re after a post-work knock-off, a date-night deal or a catch-up with mates, there are plenty of venues pouring the good stuff for less. Here’s our guide to the best happy hour deals across Sydney. Cheers! 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 more fun for less? Here's our guide to the best free things to do in Sydney, the best op shops, and Sydney's best cheap eats. Thirsty for more? Here are the best bars in Sydney right now.

Want to have a whale of a time? You’ve come to the right place. Every year, thousands of humpback whales cruise past Sydney harbour on their epic migration from the icy waters of Antarctica to warmer breeding grounds in the north, turning our coastline into one of the best whale-watching destinations in the country. The route has been dubbed “Humpback Highway” thanks to the humpback whales as well as southern right whales, minke whales, blue whales and orcas making this journey. FYI, whale-watching season runs from May through to November, with peak sightings usually occurring between late June and early July when the whales travel closest to shore. If you miss the northbound migration, don’t stress – mothers and calves make the return trip south between August and November. Don’t want to splash out on a whale-watching boat tour? Just head to some of Sydney’s beaches, clifftops and coastal walks for a front-row seat to the action. Make sure to grab a pair of binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for dramatic breaches and the unmistakable spray of a whale’s blowhole on the horizon as these gentle giants put on a whale-y good show. 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.  RECOMMENDED:  Whale watching cruises that give you bang for your buck Sydney's amazing animal attractions  The best beaches in Sydney for sun, sand and surf

If you missed out on seeing the powerful and deeply moving play, The Jungle and the Sea in 2022, it returns to Belvoir St Theatre from July 11 to August 2. Created by S. Shakthidharan and Eamon Flack, the creative team behind Counting and Cracking, the production tells the story of one family caught in the devastating Sri Lankan civil war, which raged between the Sinhalese-majority government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) from 1983 to 2009, leaving unimaginable death and destruction in its wake. At the heart of the story is Gowrie, a mother desperately trying to reunite her family as violence engulfs her homeland. After an act of destruction tears her loved ones apart, she takes a radical vow of defiance, blindfolding herself and refusing to see the world again until her family is reunited. While she sends her husband and one daughter to Australia for safety, she and her other two daughters search through the jungles of northern Sri Lanka for her estranged son.  Drawn from real-life testimonies and woven with elements of the Mahabharata and Antigone, the play is both grand in scale and deeply human. Featuring live Carnatic music with a stellar cast including including Bharathanatyam dancer Anandavalli, plus Prakash Belawadi, Nadie Kammallaweera and Shiv Palekar, The Jungle and the Sea is a stirring tale of love and loss in the face of war. The Jungle and the Sea runs from July 11 to August 2 at Belvoir St Theatre's Upstairs Theatre with a run time of almost

This year, the National Indigenous Art Fair (NIAF) has found a new home at The Cutaway in Barangaroo. Coinciding with NAIDOC Week, the seventh edition of NIAF is on from July 3–5 and brings together more than 30 Indigenous Art Centres from across Australia. NIAF is your opportunity to connect directly with artists from some of the country’s most remote communities. Presented by First Hand Solutions Aboriginal Corporation, more than 100 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists will travel to Sydney for the event, presenting everything from painting, weaving and sculpture to fashion, dance, live music and large-scale installations.  Some of the art centres include Merrepen, Durrmu Arts, Jilamara Arts and Craft, and Artists of Ampilatwatja. As for prices, expect to pay anything between $100 to $30,000 for works by artists like Kieren Karritpul, Karen Rogers, Agnes Donnelly, Valerie Brumby, Joseph Williams, Mary Gibson, Rachel Luckan, Joey Nganjmirra, Rekeshia Goodwin and Stefan Smith, to name a few. Curated by a team of leading First Nations creatives, the 2026 program expands beyond art – make sure to take in some of the exhibitions, workshops, talks and performances celebrating Blak excellence and culture. Highlights include a Friday Opening Night on Friday, July 3, featuring live music, a fashion parade and dance. Importantly, no commission or stall fees are charged, ensuring that 100 per cent of the profits go directly back to remote Indigenous art centres. Whether you’

For 13 glorious years, the Builders Arms Hotel has been paying tribute to the humble snag. And this winter, the beloved Sausage Fest returns with six menu offerings dedicated to all things sausage – and it's bound to be a banger. Geddit? Running until June 28 from noon, expect everything from a spicy Merguez sausage paired with oysters and a mignonette dressing to a woodfired duck neck snag served with pork, pistachio and a rich jus. Other highlights include a Manchester Scotch egg with black pudding, a choucroute garnie loaded with smoked frankfurters and pork belly, a saucisson brioche, and a classic Spotted Dick with warm vanilla and brandy custard. Our tip: come in a group, order all six dishes and you'll score a limited-edition tote bag. The fun doesn't stop at the menu. On Wednesday, June 24, test your knowledge at sausage-themed trivia hosted by Cam Smith from 6pm onwards, with prizes including a Meatsmith sausage tray up for grabs. Snag your spot here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Want more? Check out the best things happening in Melbourne this week.  

Every year, the Yarra City Council puts on a beloved music festival focused on showcasing and supporting local artists and venues during the quieter winter season. It’s no secret that things are tough for musicians at the moment, so this year’s festival is a great opportunity to get out and support Melbourne's musos, venues, DJs and music producers. This year, the Leaps and Bounds Music Festival is taking place across ten massive days and nights from July 16–26. Anticipate parties and performances to suit all ages and budgets, including plentiful free and family-friendly gigs. It's all happening in Fitzroy, Collingwood, Abbotsford and Richmond. Some of the standout moments include major venue takeovers like In Motion as part of High Ground, which brings a rotating line-up to the Night Cat, the Evelyn Hotel and the Punters Club. Over in Collingwood, the converted train carriage venue Trainscendence hosts Loco Motion – a weekend-long mash-up of music, arts and creative culture. Elsewhere, the Gem’s free Stone Fest Sunday session and Equaliser: A Disability Pride Party at the Leadbeater Hotel add to the festival’s inclusive, community-driven feel. From Afrofusion to First Nations storytelling and experimental club nights, the festival leans into music as a shared language. You’ll also find punk showcases, live radio broadcasts and immersive AV parties dotted throughout the program, reflecting the diversity of Melbourne’s independent music scene. As always, the Leaps and Bounds

Think art galleries are all hushed whispers and serious faces? Think again. On Friday, June 26, the Art Gallery of NSW is swapping its "quiet, please" signs for pumping beats as the Archie Party 2026 takes over for one huge night of art, music, food and dancing. So book your tickets and get into the groove in one of Sydney's most beautiful cultural spaces.  Now in its fifth year, this after-hours extravaganza is co-produced by Sitara Tanglaw – a new artist collective founded by Parramatta-based visual artist Marikit Santiago and Western Sydney hip-hop star L-Fresh The Lion. From 7pm, the Naala Nura building will come alive with a line-up of live music by L-Fresh The Lion (featuring The Browns) and R&B favourite Jess Jade, plus DJ sets by Nicole Tania and aywy to keep everyone on the dancefloor. Another plus: your ticket also includes access to the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2026, so you can have a look at some of Australia's most talked-about artworks between dance breaks. Outside in the forecourt, things get competitive from 6.30pm onwards. Meet players from the Sydney Kings and Sydney Flames and shoot some hoops in a three-point challenge. Or watch a basketball showcase from Warriors Basketball from Western Sydney, all set to beats by DJ ULTMT. And you won’t go hungry – there are pop-up bars with tasty treats from Messina, Plate It Forward, Crafted by Matt Moran and more, plus artist talks, workshops and behind-the-scenes insights from Archibald finalists throughout

Institution versus intuition. Power versus prejudice. Bias versus belief. It’s all laid bare in the stage production of Doubt: A Parable, coming to the Sydney Theatre Company from June 30 onwards. Sam Reid (The Newsreader, Interview with the Vampire) stars opposite Pamela Rabe (Wentworth) in John Patrick Shanley’s Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning play that’s directed by Australian theatre great, Marion Potts. The production also features Zindzi Okenyo (director of Purpose) and Shannen Alyce Quan (The Dictionary of Lost Words), bringing together a stellar cast for this engrossing 90-minute drama. Set in a Catholic school in the Bronx, New York in 1964, Doubt centres on a shocking accusation that blurs the lines between suspicion and truth. Sister Aloysius (Rabe), the rigid headmistress of St. Nicholas Church School suspects the charismatic Father Flynn (Reid) of inappropriate sexual behaviour towards the school’s sole black student, Donald Muller. If the plot sounds familiar, it’s perhaps because you’ve watched the 2008 film adaptation, starring Meryl Streep and the late Philip Seymour Hoffman.  Provocative and deeply unsettling, the play asks audiences to question everything – and is as relevant now as when it made its Broadway debut about 20 years ago. As the evidence remains frustratingly inconclusive, audiences are left to wrestle with their own assumptions long after the final curtain falls. Doubt: A Parable is at the Sydney Theatre Company’s Roslyn Packer Theatre fr

Inner Westies, rejoice – King Street Crawl is back on July 12, so get ready for this music-fuelled festival across Newtown, Enmore and Erskineville. The 2026 Crawl promises more than 250 artists performing across 40 venues and stages. From punk and indie rock to hip-hop, jazz, funk and electronic beats, there’s something happening around every corner – and most of it is free. For the first time ever, the legendary Enmore Theatre will join the action as a ticketed headline stage, hosting an all-star lineup featuring Tropical F*ck Storm, Winston Surfshirt, Miss Kaninna, Human Movement, Body Type, Djanaba and more. Tickets start from just $50 and double as a Priority Pass, helping you skip the queues at selected venues throughout the day. Prefer a street party vibe? Head to Eliza Street for free live music performances all day, plus drinks from local favourites like Young Henrys and Doomjuice and food by Volkswurst.  Families are catered for too, with dedicated all-ages spaces at the Inner West Pride Centre and St Georges Hall at Newtown Performing High for music and more. The beauty of King Street Crawl is that there’s no set path. Wander between pubs, bars, breweries, cafes and pop-up stages, discover your next favourite band and soak up the atmosphere that makes Sydney’s Inner West music scene so special. Our tip: wear comfortable shoes. Get all the deets here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, s

Love the snow but not so keen on the seven-hour drive to go skiing in Perisher or Thredbo? Take the car to the Hunter Valley to get your winter fix at Snow Time in the Garden. Returning to Hunter Valley Gardens from June 27 to July 26, it transforms wine country into a winter wonderland packed with family-friendly fun. For one glorious month, the Gardens are covered in snow, complete with an ice-skating rink, a giant ice toboggan, amusement rides and plenty of winter-themed entertainment. The star attraction – yes, it’s back – is the 45-metre giant ice toboggan. Grab a tube, hold on tight and squeal as you whoosh downhill – it's guaranteed to get the heart pumping. Or head to the Snow Play Zone, where you can build a snowman and play in the snow. What’s new, you ask? DJ Jeff's Glacial Grooves turns the ever-popular ice-skating rink into a winter party, spinning tunes while skaters spin around (or try not to face-plant). Kids can join Glacier Guy for interactive snow games and target challenges, while adventurous souls can tackle the Abominable Adventure, a garden-wide quest to help free the Frozen Yeti by completing a series of challenges. Plus, there are plenty of rides to enjoy. Take in sweeping views from the Ferris Wheel, race down the Superslide, or hop aboard the gorgeous Venetian Carousel and Spinning Tea Cups. Keep an eye out for roaming characters like a polar bear, a penguin and an Abominable Snowman who'll be wandering around the Gardens, so get snap happy. Hungry

If you love popping into Wally's Albert Park for a glass of red wine, here's another reason to return. This neighbourhood wine bar has transformed into a fully-fledged restaurant, pairing its exceptional cellar with a produce-driven menu. Since opening in 2024, Wally's has built a loyal following among locals seeking good wine and warm hospitality. Now, owner Baxter Pickard has developed the venue into a dining destination with the help of an expanded hospitality team that includes former Amaru venue manager Gitana Gordon and Rick Marson (ex-Gimlet). The menu has evolved well beyond bar snacks, with dishes such as barbecued prawns with nduja, gnocchi à la Parisienne and chicken with mustard soubise. Desserts are equally tempting – how about some Earl Grey crème caramel or a chocolate mousse topped with dulce de leche, macadamia and orange? If decision-making isn't your strong suit, opt for the chef's menu and let the kitchen do the talking. Just in time for the cooler months, the upstairs area now boasts an intimate and elegant dining room, which can seat up to 18 guests for gorgeous private events – long birthday lunch, anyone? And while the food offering has grown, wine remains firmly at Wally's heart. The carefully curated list is most impressive, featuring everything from everyday favourites to special-occasion bottles, plus rotating premium pours by the glass – including Krug. What's more, you can look out for their wine-led experiences and events with wine producers and

Update, June 2026: Closed to the public since 2024, the Brett Whiteley Studio in Surry Hills is slated to reopen on Saturday, July 25, 2026. Thoughtfully renovated by leading architectural firm Tonkin Zulaikha Greer, it offers an unfiltered look into the life and works of Brett Whiteley (1939-1992), one of Australia’s most influential artists. Located in Whiteley’s final home and studio in Surry Hills, it's been managed as a museum by the Art Gallery of New South Wales since 1995. Celebrations kick off with Brett Whiteley: Coming Home, an exhibition that showcases some of the artist’s most ambitious works from the 1970s. At its heart is Alchemy (1972–73), Whiteley’s extraordinary 16-metre-wide autobiographical masterpiece. Featuring more than 80 paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs and personal sketchbooks, the exhibition offers a fascinating glimpse into Whiteley’s creative world after his return to Australia. Alongside sublime landscapes and intimate portraits, visitors will have the chance to experience the refreshed studio itself, making this one of Sydney’s most anticipated cultural reopenings of 2026. And guess what? Entry is free. ***** The Brett Whiteley Studio was the workplace and home of Australian artist Brett Whiteley. The artist bought the former warehouse in 1985 and converted it into a studio and exhibition space. He lived there from 1988 to 1992, the year he died in Thirroul. The NSW Government subsequently bought the space, and it opened to the publi

Want to spend a magical, music-filled weekend by the sea? That’s exactly what’s on offer when the Queenscliff Music Festival returns to the Bellarine Peninsula from November 27-29. Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, the festival has revealed its first line-up announcement and it’s stacked with Australian music royalty. Leading the charge are Baker Boy, Kate Miller-Heidke, Meg Mac, Lime Cordiale, Peter Garrett and the Alter Egos, Mia Dyson and Magic Dirt, alongside a host of emerging and established acts. Set against the backdrop of Queenscliff’s windswept foreshore, the festival offers much more than just music. Between sets, festivalgoers can explore the town, sample the Bellarine’s food and wine scene, camp under the stars or simply settle in and soak up the laid-back atmosphere.   Also joining the line-up are Charley Castle and the Boys in the Well, The Gnomes, Hussy Hicks, Jordie Lane, The Maes, Owelu Dreamhouse, Rupert Bullard, Steph Strings, Sunday Lemonade, Willie J's 6V6s and Zindzi and the Zillionaires. Since launching in 1997, Queenscliff Music Festival has grown into one of Victoria’s biggest regional events, powered by a passion for showcasing great music. With dedicated family programming, a kids’ precinct and affordable camping, it’s a must-do on the Australian music calendar. Early-bird tickets are on sale now, with three-day adult passes from $290, accompanied youth tickets from $139, camping from $35 for the weekend and rent-a-tent packages available from $460.

Francophones and Francophiles, it’s time to dust off your berets and brush up on your French. The Bastille Day French Festival is returning to the Queen Victoria Market on July 11 and 12. For one glorious winter weekend, Sheds C and D will transform into a little slice of France, packed with food, wine and plenty of joie de vivre. While Bastille Day on July 14 officially commemorates the storming of the Bastille in 1789 and the birth of the French Republic, these celebrations are focused on the things we all know and love about French culture – think cheese, croissants, crêpes and Champagne. Consider this your invitation to feast on French fare this winter. A glass of vin chaud? Oui. A serve of melting raclette? Oui, oui. Feeling competitive? Try your hand at pétanque, France's favourite backyard sport, before settling in for live music and entertainment like lively accordion tunes, can-can dancers and talented mime artists on the main stage. The festival's cultural program features the popular Les Lumières talks, walking tours and hands-on masterclasses exploring everything from French history to contemporary issues. On from 9am to 4pm, entry to the Bastille Day French Festival is free – though a few events are ticketed. Come for the raclette, stay for the rosé. À bientôt! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Craving French food? These are the best French restaurants in Melbourne.  

Australia is a nation of coffee drinkers and café lovers. While the unrelenting cost-of-living crisis might suggest we’d be forced to give up our daily macchiato, our spending habits tell another story. Despite household budgets feeling the pinch, new NAB data reveals Australians are still finding room for life's little pleasures. Spending at cafés, restaurants and pubs rose 7.6 per cent over the past year, with hospitality now accounting for one in every $10 spent nationwide. It's welcome news for hospitality businesses navigating rising operating costs, and proof that even during tougher times, Australians support their local dining and drinking holes. And it's not surprising. When eating out at a fancy-schmaltzy fine diner feels a little out of reach, it's often the smaller – more affordable – pleasures that Australians are willing to splurge on.  Photograph: SuppliedVeneziano Coffee   So, which states are leading Australia's dining-out boom? Western Australia takes out the top spot, recording the strongest annual growth in café, restaurant and pub spending at 8.5 per cent. The Northern Territory follows closely behind at 7.8 per cent, while New South Wales and the ACT share third place with growth of 7.1 per cent. The appetite for dining out shows no signs of slowing either. Café and restaurant spending rose 2.9 per cent in May 2026, outpacing overall consumer spending growth of 1.1 per cent. NAB Head of Small Business Victoria Dario Medugorac says businesses that can a

Love travelling around the world, but find the whole check-in process like a form of slow torture? Great news – Virgin Australia has rolled out some major changes to its digital and airport experience, and it’s promising to cut check-in times by up to 50 per cent across ten major Australian domestic airports. Translation: less queueing, more time at the gate bar. Years in the making, the project sees Virgin Australia's app upgraded with new features previously only available to guests via the airline’s call centre or at the airport. Here are the major ones you should know about.   Fly ahead and fly later If you’re a Velocity Gold, Platinum or Platinum Plus member, you can now request an earlier same-day flight straight from the app (on eligible fares). Platinum Plus members also get the option to shift to a later flight. Fly earlier (complimentary) If there's room on the plane, Virgin will now offer eligible passengers a free move to an earlier flight on the day of travel. You don’t even have to ask – the app will ping you if you’re in luck. Perfect for when meetings finish early, plans change or you just can’t be bothered waiting around the terminal. Photograph: Supplied | Virgin AustraliaCheck-In & App Upgrades Seating upgrades Want to stretch out and go a bit fancy without committing upfront? Virgin's app now lets guests bid for Business Class or Economy X extra legroom seats. A tad competitive, but very worth it if you score a bit more knee space. Bag drop In addition

Dreaming of sipping wine under a Tuscan sun? How about hiking (and, ahem, yodelling) through the Swiss Alps? Or perhaps island hopping from Corfu to Crete in Greece? Same. But with the cozzie livs biting, a European holiday feels out of reach for many of us. There's good news – you don't need a passport to channel those Euro vibes. From French-inspired farm stays and Swiss-style chalets to beachside retreats that could pass for the Greek islands, Airbnb has spotlighted some incredible Australian destinations that deliver all the holiday feels without the long-haul flight. Take a look at these local stays that prove a Euro summer can be found right here in Australia. Photograph: SuppliedGrindelwald Holiday Cottage Grindelwald, Tasmania Reminds you of: SwitzerlandAirbnb: Grindelwald Holiday Cottage Nestled in Tasmania's Swiss-inspired village of Grindelwald, this spacious chalet-style cottage looks like it's been plucked straight from the Alps. Think mountain views, manicured gardens and cosy nights indoors. Photograph: Supplied | AirbnbLakefront Suite & Barn Gloucester Tops, New South Wales Reminds you of: SwitzerlandAirbnb: Lakefront Suite & Barn Set on a sprawling lakeside estate, this dreamy escape features a barrel sauna, private jetty, yoga pavilion and organic gardens. Add sunset views across the water, and you've got peak European countryside energy.  Photograph: SuppliedThe beach outside Seagrass Retreat Hamelin Bay, Western Australia Reminds you of: GreeceAirbnb

Fun fact: In English, the letter Q is always followed by the letter U – but not necessarily in non-Latin languages. Case in point: Qatar. Here's another fun fact (hello, trivia night): Qatar Airways' Privilege Club has just been named Australia's Best Frequent Flyer Program of the Year for the second year running. The Doha-based airline's loyalty program, called ‘Privilege Club’, took out the top honour – again – at the WeMoney Travel Awards 2026. They evaluated the nation's leading airlines on earning opportunities, redemption flexibility, benefits, partner networks and overall value. Each category was scored on a scale of zero to ten, with consideration given to customer experience, lounge access and member perks. Qatar Airways Privilege Club came out on top, cementing its position as one of Australia's most rewarding frequent flyer programs. So, if you’re heading overseas for a Euro summer or often travel to the US, the Middle East and Asia on work trips, Qatar’s frequent flyer program offers plenty of reasons to sign up. The airline flies out of six Australian cities – Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra – making it super accessible for Aussie travellers. Plus, you're in for a comfy ride, with Qatar having won the ‘World’s Best Airline’ title for an unprecedented ninth time at Skytrax's 2025 World Airline Awards. What do members actually get when they sign up? Privilege Club is powered by points called Avios, allowing travellers to earn and redeem po

Long before roads cut through Australia’s Red Centre and travellers set out on dusty Outback adventures, the Finke River had already carved its way through the heart of Australia. Known as Larapinta to the Arrernte people (meaning 'salty river'), this remarkable waterway is believed to be one of the oldest river systems on Earth. Scientists estimate it dates back more than 300 million years, making it older than dinosaurs. If you’re picturing a river that’s gushing and flowing through the rugged landscapes of Central Australia, think again. For much of the year, the Finke River runs dry; it looks more like a sandy bed dotted with permanent waterholes. But after heavy rains, it magically transforms the arid landscape, surging through ancient gorges and valleys and sustaining wildlife in one of the country's harshest environments. The river runs through the stunning Finke Gorge National Park, around 140 kilometres west of Alice Springs, and if you want to reach it, you’ll need a powerful 4WD. Whether you’re exploring its towering gorges or swimming in its waterholes, the Finke River offers a glimpse into a landscape that has existed for hundreds of millions of years. How old is the Finke River? The Finke River is believed to be more than 300 million years old, making it one of the oldest river systems on Earth. Scientists think the river once flowed through a much wetter and greener Australia, before massive geological and climate changes transformed the continent into the dry

Question: What’s Australia’s most famous building? If your mind immediately jumps to the Sydney Opera House, you’re not wrong. But while Jørn Utzon’s iconic white sails have captivated locals and visitors alike for decades, Australia is packed with architectural wonders that deserve their own moment in the spotlight. A recent list published by Traveller has spotlighted the country’s greatest buildings, with the top 50 decided upon by an expert panel of esteemed Aussie architects, authors, editors and interior designers. Some monuments are instantly recognisable, like Melbourne's Federation Square and Hobart's MONA. Meanwhile, others are unexpected gems, including the atmospheric Cobar Sound Chapel in outback NSW, the remote Bowali Visitor Centre in Kakadu and the spaceship-like Shine Dome in Canberra. Photograph: Tourism AustraliaMONA (Museum of Old and New Art) on the banks of the Derwent River, Hobart These architectural marvels span the length and breadth of our Great Southern Land, covering a breadth of categories. Think sporting arenas like the beautifully redeveloped Adelaide Oval, striking galleries like the brutalist National Gallery of Australia, tertiary institutions like Frank Gehry’s (in)famous "crumpled paper bag" UTS Business School, music stadiums like the mega Myer Music Bowl, hospitality hubs like Brisbane's upmarket James Street precinct, and beloved public spaces like Sydney's Prince Alfred Park Public Pool. Above all, each place tells a story of creativi

Get ready to twirl your fork because Spaghetti Club has opened its doors on Richmond’s Swan Street. This new Southern Italian trattoria is the eighth venue from Melbourne’s ever-buzzy Mamas Dining Group – the team behind Disuko, Hochi Mama, Straight Outta Saigon and Suzie Q. The vibe? Eat spaghetti; no regretti. Inspired by co-owner Lucas Gugliandolo’s Italian roots and the kind of long, laughter-filled meals around his Nonno’s table, Spaghetti Club is all about big flavours and big gatherings. “Our family's spaghetti tradition is a love letter to my Nonno's legacy,” says Gugliandolo. “Every Monday, he'd gather us around with his trusty orange recipe book, passing down a taste of Italy. Now, we're carrying it on at Spaghetti Club – every sauce is a nod to the man who started it all.” Photograph: Salt HouseSpaghetti Club's Thai Ho and Lucas Gugliandolo Inside, amber lighting, dark timber, stained glass and crisp white tablecloths nod to Nonna and Nonno’s home, while marble finishes, cosy booths and candlelit tables bring the relaxed charm of a modern trattoria. The kitchen is led by head chef Michael Flemming (ex-Totti’s, Botanical Hotel and Press Food and Wine) whose menu blends Italian tradition with Aussie nostalgia. “It’s not about replicating the dishes exactly,” says Flemming. “It’s more about preserving the feeling of their generosity, simplicity and food that naturally brings people together around a table.” Think cacio e pepe arancini with black garlic aioli; spaghe

As the famous Latin proverb goes, ‘in vino veritas’ – in wine, there is truth. And if the 2026 NSW Sommelier Wine List Awards are anything to go by, the truth is that New South Wales is producing some seriously exceptional vino. Since 2019, the NSW Wine Industry Association has been celebrating the sommeliers, beverage managers and venue owners who showcase the diversity and quality of NSW wines through its Sommelier's Wine List Awards.  From tiny neighbourhood wine bars and regional gems to bustling pubs and top-notch restaurants, an impressive number of venues from across the state submitted their curated wine lists for 2026. After much deliberation, a panel of judges whittled down the list to 44 finalists who truly embodied the spirit of NSW wine. And on June 2, the winners were announced at NSW Parliament House. Hosted in partnership with Destination NSW, the awards shine a spotlight on venues that champion local producers and the state's diverse wine regions. Taking out the coveted 2026 NSW Sommelier's Wine List of the Year was Shun Eto from Altitude Restaurant at the Shangri-La Hotel. Says NSW Wine Industry Association President Mark Bourne, "Shun Eto at Altitude Restaurant has delivered a list that recognises and promotes great wines from NSW, and from producers large, small, unknown to the highly regarded." 2026 NSW Sommelier Wine List Awards Winners: NSW Sommelier's Wine List of the YearShun Eto, Altitude Restaurant Best NSW Wine List in a Sydney Venue (>60 seats)Shu

Ever gone scuba diving in search of weedy seadragons at Portsea Pier? Or perhaps you’ve cast a line for snapper as rays glide beneath the water’s surface? Locals and visitors alike have long enjoyed exploring this coastal landmark on the Mornington Peninsula. Located at Portsea Front Beach, within the sheltered sands of Weeroona Bay, it’s a favourite spot for diving, snorkelling, fishing or simply soaking up the views across Port Phillip Bay.  You may remember that this wooden pier, made up of two platforms, was badly damaged by a massive storm in 2024. While emergency repairs were carried out afterwards, this was only a short-term solution. But thankfully, Portsea Pier is finally set to undergo major maintenance, safety and strengthening works, beginning this July.  Works will begin at the pier entrance and be completed in stages, with the entire structure closed to the public while construction is underway. It needs substantial upgrades to protect it from future weather events and ensure it can continue to be enjoyed for years to come.  A marine exclusion zone will also be in place to keep visitors safe. As the works progress, some sections of the pier might reopen for licensed tour operators. Parks Victoria expects the upgrades to be completed before summer 2026, weather permitting, of course. While Portsea Pier is temporarily closed, you can still head to Sorrento Pier and Rye Pier for your fix of fishing, snorkelling and water views. Stay in the loop: sign up for our fr

Where do you see yourself when retirement finally rolls around? Will you be pottering in your garden, strolling along a beach, joining a local book (or wine) club, or looking after the grandkids? For many Victorians, retirement is the beginning of a lifestyle they've been planning for years. And more Australians are looking beyond the major cities and embracing a sea change or tree change in a place that will give them affordable homes, good access to healthcare and an escape from the rat-race of life.  To uncover Victoria's best retirement destinations, Citro has paired data from its 300,000-strong community with insights from experts in housing, economics and demographics to spotlight the best coastal retirement locations in Australia. Its Australia's Top 50 Retirement Locations guide analysed towns and suburbs across five key pillars: housing affordability, housing availability, access to healthcare, transport infrastructure and lifestyle opportunities.  Within Victoria, the result is a diverse mix of coastal favourites, historic country towns and well-connected suburban pockets that offer plenty to look forward to in the years ahead. Of course, some locations featured on the list are for those with a substantial nest egg – think Melbourne’s premium suburb Brighton, where median house prices averaged $2.07 million in 2025. But there are plenty of under-the-radar, small town communities offering something authentic and affordable like Victoria’s boating capital, Paynesvill

Melbourne's public transport network has once again become a moving art gallery, with six striking new First Peoples art trams hitting the tracks as part of this year's Rising. Launching on June 2, the latest edition of this public art project transforms six trams into vibrant canvases celebrating First Peoples culture, storytelling and creativity. These trams will travel across the city's network for the next 12 months, bringing contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art to commuters. Curated by Taungurung woman Kate ten Buuren, the 2026 program explores the power of Blak imagination. Each tram showcases the work of an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander artist with connections to Victoria, creating an exhibition on wheels that glides daily through Melbourne's streets. Leading this year's line-up is the prestigious Legacy Tram, created by Wadawurrung elder and senior artist Aunty Marlene Gilson OAM. Renowned for her richly detailed multi-figure paintings, Gilson's work reclaims and reframes histories of Country, weaving cultural knowledge, memory and storytelling into the public realm. Her acclaimed practice has been exhibited everywhere from Ballarat to the Venice Biennale, and her contribution brings a powerful intergenerational perspective to this year's project. Joining Gilson are five other celebrated artists: Natasha Carter (Dja Dja Wurrung, Yorta Yorta and Jaru), Mitch Mahoney (Boonwurrung and Barkindji), Jenna Mayilema Lee (Larrakia, KarraJarri and Warda

Remember the wild era when everybody was forced to work from home? For many Australians, it completely overhauled the way we worked. No commute, more flexibility and a better work/life balance made remote work a great option for busy households. Even now, as some companies push for more days at the office, working from home is a big drawcard for employees juggling family, appointments and everyday life. But while WFH can save you money on fuel and public transport, you have to keep in mind those rising electricity bills.  New research from Compare the Market looked at whether Australians still come out ahead financially when working remotely. The study compared the average daily cost of running a home office – think a laptop, Wi-Fi, lighting, phone charging, plus those multiple (yet essential) cups of coffee over an eight-hour work day – against costs like petrol prices, commute distances and public transport fares when travelling to work. They then calculated the monthly savings over 22 workdays per month, and here are the results. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Australia (@timeoutaustralia) Sydney came out on top for WFH savings. With pricey public transport fares and commuting costs, Sydneysiders could save almost $150 a month by working remotely, with the average daily home cost sitting at just 46 cents. Melbourne followed closely behind, with workers saving around $143 per month. Despite high driving costs, the average daily cost