Melissa Woodley

Looking to live it up on your next Aussie getaway? We’ve got you covered. Australia is packed with standout accommodation, from new boutique stays with heated infinity pools to revamped classics boasting five-star rooftop bars and close proximity to our country's best attractions. But with so many options, finding the best hotels in Australia can feel a bit overwhelming. That's where we come in. Our expert team of travel writers, including Time Out Australia's Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley, have stayed at hotels across every state and territory to bring you this ultimate guide to the best hotels in Australia. Whether you’re a local looking for a gram-worthy staycation or a tourist eager to be in the heart of the action, these are the top places to stay in Australia right now. Editors' favourite hotels in Australia: 😱 Best new hotel: Mondrian Gold Coast, QLD ⭐️ Best hidden gem: COMO The Treasury, WA 🌊 Best bucket-list hotel: InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, QLD Sydney | Byron Bay | Perth | Melbourne | Gold Coast | Brisbane | Adelaide | Hobart ☀️ Australia’s most incredible resorts🤩 The best things to do Down Under🌏 The best places to visit in Australia Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do allow us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

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

There’s no doubt about it, Sydneysiders can’t get enough of Italian food. And who can blame us? There’s something about a bowl of perfectly al dente pasta paired with a luscious, rich ragu that just hits the spot. And while Italian cuisine differs throughout the 20 incredible regions – broadly speaking, the northern regions eat more rice and polenta, while down south they feast more on seafood – Italians share a love of beautiful, seasonal produce; they choose simplicity rather than overcomplicating dishes and cook with soul. No wonder we love it so much. Luckily, there are plenty of excellent options for Italian dining in Sydney. Time Out’s food writers and editors – including Editor Avril Treasure, who has eaten her way through Sicily, Sorrento, Rome and Florence – have picked our favourite eateries, covering all bases. The only catch? They just need to provide a feel-good environment and dishes you’ll want to come back for. From casual red-sauce joints and classic pizzerias to fine-dining restaurants, you’ll find them all here. 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. Not in the mood for pasta? Here are our picks of the best spots for Greek and French food in Sydney.

A new year is upon us. Many will be locking in on a new gym routine. Others will be embarking on Dry January. But you? You’re setting your sights on seeing more of the world in 2026. And we’re right there with you – there’s no better time than now to start dreaming and planning some big adventures for the year ahead. So, where to go? Our Time Out editors, from South Africa to Sydney, have a few ideas up their sleeves. After all, this lucky lot make a living from exploring their corners of the world, discovering the next best cities, cool neighbourhoods and emerging travel destinations. Our recommended 2026 travel hotspots include Unesco’s next World Book Capital in Morocco, a new thermal wellness destination in the Canadian Rockies, unspoiled beach towns in Brazil – and many, many more where that came from. This is Time Out’s rundown of the best places to travel in 2026 – and how to plan the perfect trip in each.RECOMMENDED:🤩 The 26 best new things to do in the world in 2026🎵 The biggest and best music festivals to go to this year🖼️ 19 exhibitions worth travelling for in 2026 Grace Beard is Time Out’s travel editor. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 

Canberra has come a long way in recent years, with cocktail dens, hip restaurants and swish galleries popping up across the capital. Alongside this cultural glow-up, the city has also welcomed a wave of new hotel openings and major refurbishments, meaning Australia’s capital now boasts some of the best hotels in the country – from sleek city stays to wildly unique lodges.  Time Out Australia’s Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley spent four years exploring the inland capital before returning to Sydney, and knows exactly what makes a Canberra stay worth booking. From boutique favourites to standout luxury hotels, here's our pick of the best hotels in Canberra right now.  Editors' favourite hotels in Canberra: ⭐️ Best luxury stay: Jamala Wildlife Lodge 📍 Best for central location: Midnight Hotel 😍 Best value for money: Hotel Realm 🌳 All the best things to do in Canberra🍽️ The best restaurants in Canberra Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

If you’re gearing up for a trip to Australia or planning on exploring your own backyard, it’s worth putting these public holidays on your radar. We’ve broken it down, starting with public holidays celebrated across the nation and then those observed only by certain states and territories. Just plan ahead for these dates to secure the best hotel rooms and free camping spots before they’re all booked.  When is the next public holiday in Australia? The next nationwide public holiday in Australia is January 26, 2026. When are the national public holidays in Australia in 2026? New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1 Australia Day/Invasion Day: Monday, January 26 Good Friday: Friday, April 3 Easter Saturday: Saturday, April 4 (except Tasmania and WA) Easter Sunday: Sunday, April 5 (except Tasmania) Easter Monday: Monday, April 6 Anzac Day: Saturday, April 25 (observed in ACT and WA on Monday, April 27) Christmas Day: Friday, December 25 Boxing Day: Saturday, December 26 (except Tasmania) Boxing Day observation: Monday, December 28 What are the different public holidays in each state and territory? Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Canberra Day: Monday, March 9 Anzac Day observation: Monday, April 27 Reconciliation Day: Monday, June 1 King’s Birthday: Monday, June 8 Labour Day: Monday, October 5 New South Wales (NSW) King’s Birthday: Monday, June 8 Labour Day: Monday, October 5 Northern Territory (NT) May Day: Monday, May 4 King’s Birthday: Monday, June 8 Picnic Day: Monday, Au

Um novo ano começou. Muitos vão se dedicar a uma nova rotina de academia. Outros devem embarcar no Dry January. Mas você? Se você decidiu conhecer mais do mundo em 2026, nós estamos com você. Não há momento melhor do que agora para começar a sonhar e planejar grandes aventuras do ano. Então, para onde ir? Os editores da Time Out, da África do Sul a Sydney, têm algumas ótimas ideias. Afinal, esse grupo privilegiado vive explorando seus próprios cantos do mundo, descobrindo as próximas grandes cidades, bairros mais descolados e destinos de viagem emergentes. As recomendações para 2026 incluem desde a próxima Capital Mundial do Livro da Unesco, no Marrocos, até um novo destino de bem-estar termal nas Montanhas Rochosas do Canadá, passando por vilarejos de praia ainda intocados no Brasil, entre muitos outros lugares. Este é o guia da Time Out com os melhores destinos para viajar em 2026 e dicas de como planejar a viagem perfeita para cada um deles!

So, you’ve finally decided to go on that bucket-list trip to Darwin. Whether you’re hiking the city's best trails, diving into rich Indigenous stories and art, planning swims in croc-free waterholes or chasing sunset sessions at Mindil Beach, a trip to the Top End is bound to be fun. Of course, between all the adventures, you’ll want a comfortable base to recharge – and that’s where choosing the best hotel in Darwin really matters. With its remote landscapes and rare natural wonders, having a solid home base in the Northern Territory is essential. We reckon Darwin is the perfect launch pad, offering easy access to Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park and all the Top End highlights. To help you lock in the perfect stay, Time Out Australia’s Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, has teamed up with local expert writers to bring you this definitive guide to the best hotels in Darwin – from central city stays to great-value resorts that will make your trip north memorable. Editors' favourite hotels in Darwin: ⭐️ Best luxury stay: Hilton Darwin 📍 Best for central location: Courtyard by Marriott Darwin 🌳 Best value for money: Argus Apartments Darwin ☀️ All the best things to do in Darwin🍽️ The best restaurants in Darwin Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate gu

Hobart’s best hotels make the most of everything that makes Tasmania's capital so special – from the glittering Derwent River to the imposing majesty of kunanyi/Mount Wellington and the fascinating convict history. Add world-class food, a thriving arts scene and easy access to nature, and it’s no surprise Hobart has become one of Australia’s most exciting destinations for a weekend escape or longer stay. To help you find the perfect base, Time Out Australia's Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, has teamed up with local expert writer, Josie Rozenberg-Clarke, who knows the city's nooks and crannies inside and out. Together, they've rounded up the very best hotels in Hobart – from boutique stays in the historic waterfront to luxe retreats with harbour views – making it a little easier to choose where to stay. Fair warning though: it's still going to be a tough pick. Editors' favourite hotels in Hobart: ⭐️ Best luxury hotel: The Tasman 📍 Best for central location: Moss Hotel 😍 Best value for money: DoubleTree by Hilton Hobart ☀️ The best things to do in Hobart🍽️ The best restaurants in Hobart🖼️ The best museums and galleries in Hobart Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

At the best hotels in Perth, you'll find proof why the West Coast's accommodation scene is thriving. More than 25 new or renovated hotels have opened across the city in recent years, from luxury skyscrapers in the CBD to boutique stays near Perth’s vibrant cultural hubs. Many properties take full advantage of the sparkly, new Elizabeth Quay waterfront precinct, a pedestrian-friendly destination that celebrates Perth's First Nations heritage with large public works and flowing designs that echo the curves of the Swan River.  Time Out Australia’s Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley has teamed up with local contributor Dale Anninos-Carter to bring you this list of the best hotels in Perth right now. From boutique retreats and luxury suites to hotels with late checkouts, rooftop pools and fine dining on-site, these top picks promise a memorable and comfortable stay in Western Australia's bright capital city. Editors' favourite hotels in Perth: ⭐️ Best luxury hotel: COMO The Treasury 🌳 Best for central location: InterContinental Perth City Centre 😍 Best value for money: Pan Pacific Perth 🌳 All the best things to do in Perth🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth right now🖼️ Perth's top museums and galleries Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Whether you’re a visitor mapping out your first trip to the Emerald City, or a Sydneysider planning a special-occasion staycation, finding the right hotel in Sydney is an important, sometimes overwhelming task. If you’re looking to book a stay that’s extra indulgent – willing to splash the cash on a high-end experience – choosing the right spot is even more crucial. Luckily for you, we’ve got a team of hotel aficionados who are committed to trying and testing the very best luxury stays in the city, and deciding which ones are worth your hard-earned cash (it’s a tough job, but somebody’s got to do it). Our expert team includes connoisseur of fine things Time Out Sydney Editor Avril Treasure and Sydney-based travel whizz Melissa Woodley (Time Out Australia’s News and Travel Editor). Each hotel has been checked for its luxe credentials by Time Out Sydney's Travel and Hotels Editor, Winnie Stubbs. From a celeb-approved harbourside palace (Park Hyatt Sydney) to a stunning beachside stay with a rooftop magnesium pool (Manly Pacific), these are the best luxury hotels in Sydney for a super-special stay. Editor's quick picks: Best for beach lovers: Manly Pacific  Best for harbour views: Park Hyatt Sydney  Best for indulgent spa breaks: Capella Sydney Best dog-friendly luxury stay: Pier One 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:Want more options? Here's our full guid

​​No one’s accusing Sydney of being cheap, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few budget-friendly hotels to be found in this sparkling diamond of a city. To find the best affordable hotels in Sydney, we’ve done some digging – and have put together this guide based on location, vibe, comfort and, naturally, cost. Our team of writers have tried and tested each stay to make sure the low cost doesn’t mean you’re compromising on quality. The team's resident hotel obsessive (Time Out Sydney’s Travel and Hotels Editor Winnie Stubbs) has triple checked the list to make sure it’s up to scratch. From an off-the-beaten-track four-star secret (Cremorne Point Manor, we’re looking at you) to a fun youth hostel right on the harbour, these are the very best affordable stays in the city.  NB: Be warned, peak season in Sydney has dizzying highs and even the most reasonably priced accommodation can spike over the New Year’s Eve period. So, shop around if you're looking for a place to lay your head over the holidays. Editor's quick picks: Best for sunset views: YHA Sydney HarbourBest for a socially impactful stay: Song Hotel SydneyBest affordable beachside stay: Coogee Bay HotelBest airport accommodation: Moxy Sydney Airport 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:Can’t stretch to that? Pack your tent and check out the best camping spots near Sydney.Or book a glamping tent at th

It’s 8am on a Sunday and I’m cruising down the streets of bustling Sydney. It’s hard to believe that in just under an hour, I’ll arrive at a serene wellness retreat that will be my sanctuary for the next two nights. Even 15 minutes out, I can hardly believe somewhere so private and peaceful could be hiding so close to the city – and yet, here it is. The moment I step out of my car, the pace of the world slows down. Sunlight filters through the gum trees, birdsong drifts on the morning breeze and the chaos of everyday life seems to disappear. This was exactly the vision for Billabong Retreat. Built from the ground up by Paul von Bergen, this tranquil oasis was designed as a healing place to reconnect with nature and recharge your mind, body and soul. For two days here, I swapped Wi-Fi for wellness workshops, notification pings for the hum of cicadas and screen time for baths under the stars. It was the dreamiest digital detox, made even better with calming yoga sessions, nourishing plant-based meals, opt-in meditations, luxe spa treatments and eco-comfort cabins for overnight stays (though day trips are also available from a very reasonable $125). Why stay at Billabong Retreat? Billabong is so much more than your average wellness retreat. It offers a rare chance to escape the city without actually leaving, swapping screens for yoga, meditation, bush walks and genuine human connection. The magic of Billabong lies in its simplicity and inclusivity – welcoming everyone from first

Broadway smash-hit musical Waitress is making its Melbourne (and Australian) debut in 2026, blending sweetness, sass and soulful songs in one heartwarming show. The Tony-nominated production is set to premiere at Her Majesty's Theatre in May 2026 for an exciting, month-long run.  As one of the world’s newer Broadway sensations, Waitress made its debut in New York in 2016, where it ran for four years. Based on the late Adrienne Shelly’s cult 2007 indie flick of the same name, the musical has been whipped into a moving tale of self-liberation against the odds. The show is brought to life by a trailblazing, female-led creative team, featuring a book by acclaimed screenwriter Jessie Nelson, an uplifting score by Grammy winner Sara Bareilles (including the showstopper anthem, ‘She Used to Be Mine’), and direction by Tony winner Diane Paulus. “It’s been a dream of mine to see Waitress (finally) find its way to Australia,” said Sara Bareilles. “This story is about dreams, friendship and the courage needed to learn to love oneself, which feels so universal and so timely.” As the name suggests, the story follows Jenna, a small-town waitress and seasoned pie maker who dreams of escaping her rocky marriage and starting fresh. When a baking contest and an unexpected new romance give her a taste of change, Jenna discovers that the secret ingredient to happiness might be closer than she thought. The Australian premiere of Waitress has been years in the baking – and we’re ready to have our

If paradise had a postcode, 2753 would be it – specifically Bowen Mountain, an adorable grassy town in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, just 80 minutes from Sydney CBD. The Blueys have long been my trusty escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, where the world melts into misty peaks, lush bush and the soft soundtrack of bird calls. But at Spicers Sangoma Retreat, that faraway feeling is taken to a whole new level. I had big expectations for this all-inclusive, eco-luxe lodge, which was one of just nine hotels to score two keys in Australia’s inaugural Michelin hotel awards. The phrase “all-inclusive” is a dream to most travellers – think all meals sorted, unlimited drinks and a complimentary minibar that’s restocked daily. Sure, those perks were appreciated – but in the end, it was the genuinely warm service, chef-hatted dining and premium amenities that made my stay memorable. Why stay at Spicers Sangoma Retreat? True to its name – the Zulu word for ‘healer’ – Sangoma feels like a serene, safari-style hideaway, complete with African-inspired interiors across its eight luxury bush suites. It’s the sort of place you escape to when you want to switch off completely, with hours spent roaming through the surrounding bushland, lazing by the solar-heated infinity pool, steaming in the sauna or sipping wine fireside. It’s also a swoon-worthy couples’ retreat, with two-person tubs overlooking the forest canopy, matching robes and slippers, complimentary Champagne and a bi

Despite being one of the world’s most isolated inhabited islands, Norfolk Island offers plenty of accommodation for visitors. The best part is that there are no five-star, skyscraper hotels to spoil the island’s charm. Every property here is boutique, with a homely feel that wraps you in the warmth of the island and lets you move at your own pace. Seascape Norfolk Island – a collection of four ocean-view cottages – embodies that perfectly. Set amid lush, flowering gardens just eight minutes from town, Seascape offers two- to four-bedroom villas ideal for both couples, families and larger groups. Each cottage is self-contained, giving you your own private slice of paradise, complete with a fully equipped kitchen, spacious lounge areas and an outdoor deck where you can breathe in the fresh air and admire the Pacific Ocean views. What is Seascape Norfolk Island like? A vase of pretty pink flowers, hand-picked from the garden, greets me on the table. In the kitchen, a bowl brims with fresh free-range eggs. My welcome pack even includes a gift card to the local coffee shop and a preloaded local mobile for use during my stay. It’s these thoughtful touches that make Seascape Norfolk Island feel genuinely special. This boutique collection of accommodations offers a pair of two-bedroom villas, the slightly larger two-bedroom Tern Cottage or the ultimate four-bedroom Horizon Cottage. Walking into Horizon Cottage – my base for my four-night stay on Norfolk Island – I immediately felt li

The three crystalline towers of The Langham Gold Coast are like jewels in the Surfers Paradise skyline, but it’s not just the exterior that brings diamonds to mind. This modern, five-star resort, complete with an award-winning day spa and health club, two swimming pools, six dining venues and panoramic ocean views, delivers an equally high-carat experience once you cross the threshold. When The Langham welcomed its first guests in June 2022, it marked the first luxury beachfront hotel debut on the Gold Coast in more than three decades. Three years on, we can confirm that it's still shining just as brightly as on day one. Why stay at The Langham Gold Coast? I caught my first glimpse of The Langham long before I arrived at its doorstep. Its three glistening towers stand loud and proud between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, with the two outer towers housing 170 ‘Jewel Residences’ (think luxury serviced apartments) and the tallest, central tower boasting 169 rooms and suites. But you’re paying for far more than just a place to sleep. This luxe hotel is home to six standout dining and drinking experiences, including a signature beachfront restaurant, a Michelin-starred Cantonese fine diner, a fancy high tea haven and a lively outdoor pool bar. Then there’s the luxurious wellness centre on level two, featuring an indoor magnesium pool, a multi-purpose health studio and a fancy day spa. Plus, with the beach just steps away, it doesn’t get much better than this. What are the rooms

Queenstown is famous for its epic ski fields, dramatic mountains, pristine lakes and, of course, Fergburger. You truly appreciate its popularity when you spot the queue snaking down Shotover Street, which is exactly what I saw as I rolled into town. I arrived at lunchtime, AKA burger o’clock, which made finding a park rather stressful – but somehow I lucked out and pulled straight into the driveway at Crowne Plaza Queenstown by IHG. This shiny, white hotel sits right in the heart of town, directly opposite Lake Wakatipu and a five-minute walk from the legendary Fergburger. It’s arguably one of the town’s most convenient addresses, perfectly positioned just away from the bustle of Steamer Wharf, the mall and Main Town Pier. Beyond its top location, the hotel houses 139 bright rooms with stunning lake or mountain views. Whether you’re here for the ski season, an adventurous hike or a family getaway, Crowne Plaza Queenstown has everything you need for a comfortable stay. What are the rooms like at Crowne Plaza Queenstown? The views truly steal the show at Crowne Plaza Queenstown. The four-star hotel is home to 139 bright rooms, boasting vistas of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables mountain range or the private sunny courtyard. I’d recommend booking one of the lakeside rooms, where you can enjoy sweeping views of New Zealand’s longest lake and the surrounding dramatic mountain ranges from your own private balcony. Sunlight spilled into my spacious room, highlighting the natural colou

If anyone ever complains about Canberra’s nightlife, just nod quietly and then laugh all the way up the stairs to Bar Rochford, where you will be enjoying a glass of the grippy, slightly volcanic Rami wine from COS in Sicily. This is undoubtedly the best little wine bar in the ACT, and once you’re here, you’ll never ever want to leave. You know how they talk about some venues being timeless? Well, this place is locationless. Once you’re up in the cosy confines of this first-floor bar, you could be in Melbourne, Berlin or deepest Darlinghurst. There’s a stack of records on the wall, a roll-down specials list on brown paper, early hip hop on the stereo and super lovely staff wearing vintage shirts. Big arched windows at one end let in light and brighten the space, but a real log fire keeps things toasty on a bracingly cold Canberra evening, and they have enlisted a team of excited young guns to run the joint. Let them guide you on a vinous adventure that traipses the world, but if you don’t order food too, it’s a lost opportunity. The $90 set menu isn’t a cop-out; it’s more like a tour of their latest and greatest seasonal hits. Think smoked beef tongue with anchovy mayo; lamb ribs (or cauliflower for vegos) with black bean and honey; and crème brûlée tart, if you’re shooting for the stars.  RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Canberra

Every city should be so lucky as to have a bistro like Gerard's. The new-look restaurant offers a beguiling mash-up of Middle Eastern and modern Australian cuisines, with dishes designed to share. The game plan is simple: breads and dips, raw and fermented plates, seafood and meat mains, then desserts. You could also easily opt for one of Gerard's set menus, featuring signatures like the fresh barbari bread with a side of goat's curd, the crisp 'awamat' savoury doughnut with green mango, and the hero Margra lamb collar with special spices. And it ain’t just whacked on the plate either – Gerard’s artful kitchen staff carefully curate each dish with love, and heaps of verdant and vermillion coloured ingredients too. Think cute little tarts, stacked desserts, silky sauces, and beds of yoghurt. Wines are in focus at Gerard’s Bistro too, hailing from every corner of the world, like the white Domaine Disznoko Dry Furmint from Hungary, the orange Radikon Ribolla from Italy, and the red Alain Graillot ‘Syrocco’ Syrah from Morocco. Seasonal cocktails are a huge hit too. As for Gerard’s ambience, the rustic-contemporary dining room is licked with earthy tones and the overhead lighting radiates softly through a mega perspex – they’ve even won awards for the design. There's also an open kitchen for all your perusing needs.  Time Out tip: Gerard’s Bistro gives big date night energy – it’s sleek, it’s sexy and the food is equally as divine. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Brisbane

Wildflower’s innovative fare is headed by the Indigenous culinary calendar, meaning ingredients are harvested and foraged according to the Noongar six seasons. As your dining experience unfolds over a four-, six- or eight-course degustation dinner, you can discover pockets of Swan River views between the city’s highrises, along with a bird's eye perspective over the neighbouring cathedral. More importantly, the transitional menu never fails to delight curious diners and you can expect to come across dishes with the likes of the Manjimup marron with bush tomato, dhashi and coastal succulents, as well as the Berkshire pork with cauliflower, Geraldton wax and black pudding – both peculiar and inspiring, if you ask us. It’s worth playing with Wildflower’s cocktail list too, where native Australian ingredients steal the spotlight, including Davidson plum, strawberry gum, fingerlime and quandong. Time Out tip: A floor-to-ceiling window seat offers a tableside dramatic drop if you’re down for elevating your Wildflower experience even further. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Perth

Millbrook Restaurant's ever-evolving, seasonal menu takes its cues from the estate’s sprawling one-acre garden, where 100 varieties of heirloom vegetables are grown. Creativity and colour are served up lakeside, whether that’s on the deck or inside the stone walls of its grand cellar door – you’d almost mistake it for a vista across the Italian countryside. The winery restaurant's pretty plates sound a little like rump steak with confit eggplant, pan-seared market fish alongside a zucchini medley, plus a fresh plum tart atop lemon pastry cream, decorated with plum gel and meringue. There’s also a thoughtful vegan menu, too. Millbrook’s premium wines lean strongly on lesser-known grape varieties, such as viognier, tempranillo and a sublime GSM blend. Time Out tip: Millbrook Winery is located a 50-minute drive south of Perth, so it’s best to book a minibus with a designated driver to haul you around the region.  RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Perth

At Adelaide’s first open-flame restaurant, main character energy comes from a three-and-a-half-tonne wood-burning oven that sizzles everything from local figs and spiced cauliflower to Murray cod with sweet corn sauce, as well as the dry-aged wagyu T-bone. Michelin-trained chef Jake Kellie heads this sleek barbecue restaurant, which is housed inside a heritage-listed sandstone building. You can dine à la carte from Arkhé’s seasonally-driven menu, or try for a seat at the exclusive chef’s table, located in the heart of the restaurant. Sip on enticing cocktails with the likes of a Wattleseed Negroni and Watermelon Fizz, which sit atop Arkhé’s extensive drinks list. Time Out tip: We quite like the seating at the very back of the restaurant, which backs onto a leafy courtyard – it’s like you’re outside but you’re inside all at the same time. There’s something rather calming about it. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Adelaide

Named after a Japanese style of pottery, Raku blurs the lines between art and sustenance. The menu is extensive, showcasing seafood in all its rainbow glory. You can have it raw in the kingfish served with truffle yuzu, cold in a spanner crab sushi roll, or hot as king prawns doused in XO butter. Masters of the blades, the chefs expertly slice up fresh snapper, tuna belly and scallops into sashimi or nigiri; add crunch with popcorn shrimp on the tempura menu; and grill high-grade Wagyu on a robata charcoal grill. The carefully adorned plates are a spectacle in themselves, never mind the super sleek, monochrome fit-out to boot. From the $60 express lunch to the $170 royal tasting degustation, Raku will leave you wishing you had the moolah to dine here daily – or maybe you do, but that’s none of our business. Time Out tip: Gluten-free, gang, rejoice. There’s a five-page menu dedicated to you, featuring treats like chargrilled cauliflower with miso-butter mayonnaise and soft shell crab tempura. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Canberra

In case you missed it, the price of the Australian passport – the world’s most expensive – was increased yet again on January 1. At $422 a pop, it’s fair to say you’ll want to make it worth every cent. Lucky for us, Aussie citizens hold one of the most powerful passports on the planet, offering visa-free travel to 136 incredible countries worldwide. But if you’re hoping to venture further off the beaten path, a bit of planning might be in order, as some countries enforce strict visa requirements for Australian travellers.  As of January 2026, Aussie passport holders need a valid visa to enter 14 countries, primarily in Asia and Africa, like Afghanistan, North Korea and Sudan. These visas must be secured from your destination’s relevant consulate or embassy before touching down. A further 29 countries require Australian citizens to apply for a simple eVisa online before travelling, including Brazil, India, Papua New Guinea and Vietnam. Meanwhile, there are 38 countries where Australian passport holders must apply for a visa on arrival, generally requiring you to fill in a form in a designated area at the airport after you land. Popular spots where Aussies must be granted an eVisa before entering include Cambodia, Indonesia, the Maldives and Tanzania. You can check out the full list of countries requiring visas for Aussies below.  Which countries do Australians need visas for?  Afghanistan Algeria Central African Republic Congo Eritrea Ghana Mali Nauru Niger North Korea Russia

January is hands down the best month to find holiday inspiration. All the big players in the travel world are releasing their picks of the best places to visit in 2026, with National Geographic, Condé Nast, Lonely Planet and our very own team at Time Out having spotlighted some seriously unreal destinations. Now, one of the world’s most trusted travel publications, the New York Times (NYT), has unveiled its round-up of the 52 Places to Go in 2026 (one holiday for every week of the year) – and two Aussie gems made the cut. First up is Australia’s northern paradise, the Top End, which ranked 14th on the global list. This tropical oasis in the Northern Territory – home to Darwin, Arnhem Land, Tiwi Islands and the Katherine region – is Australia’s ultimate outdoor playground. The NYT was quick to highlight the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, which is rich with life: think tiny yellow butterflies, rolling lightning storms, ancient rock art galleries, immense red gorges and deep blue pools. In 2025, the park’s “crown jewel”, Gunlom Falls, reopened after a six-year closure, welcoming visitors to take a dip in its famous 85-metre-high infinity pool. We reckon it'll be a super popular spot to cool off in 2026! Photograph: Supplied | Northern Territory TourismLarrakia Cultural Centre Closer to Darwin, Litchfield National Park is another outdoor oasis, overflowing with Indigenous history, thundering waterfalls, croc-free pools and vivid greenery that has to be seen to be b

Let’s face it: the Christmas Day weather did us dirty, and the holidays went a little too fast. If you’re keen to extend your time off or lock in an early-year getaway, Jetstar has just dropped a super four-day sale that’s exactly what you need. With flights from Sydney to Thailand from $292 and domestic flights around Australia from only $37, it’s the best belated Christmas present we could ask for. Jetstar’s Weekend Fare Frenzy is running for just four days, kicking off at midday (AEDT) today (Thursday, January 9) and ending at 11.59pm (AEDT) on Monday, January 12. You’ll want to nab tickets quickly though, as the best dates are likely to sell out earlier. And with travel dates between mid-January and early April, you could literally be packing your bags next week. You’ll need to pack your sunnies and bathers, because many of the 40,000 discounted international and domestic fares are to peak summer hotspots. Those keen to holiday in Australia can score one-way flights between Sydney and Ballina (Byron Bay) from $37, Sydney and the Sunshine Coast from $55, or Sydney and the Whitsundays from $85. Photograph: Tourism and Events Queensland | Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays Island Dreaming of an overseas island getaway? Jetstar is offering heavily slashed fares to Bali, with one-way flights out of Sydney from $209. Been there, done that? You can also nab one-way flights to other Southeast Asian hotspots like Thailand and the Philippines, with flights from Syney to Phuket for les

Need another holiday? We hear you – we can all agree that the summer break flew by way too fast. If you’re keen to extend your time off or lock in an early-year getaway, Jetstar has just dropped a super four-day sale that’s exactly what you need. With flights from Melbourne to Bali from just $149 and domestic flights around Australia from only $37, it’s the best belated Christmas present we could ask for. Jetstar’s Weekend Fare Frenzy is running for just four days, kicking off at midday (AEDT) today (Thursday, January 9) and ending at 11.59pm (AEDT) on Monday, January 12. You’ll want to nab tickets quickly though, as the best dates are likely to sell out earlier. And with travel dates between mid-January and early April, you could literally be packing your bags next week. You’ll need to pack your sunnies and bathers, because many of the 40,000 discounted international and domestic fares are to peak summer hotspots. Those keen to holiday in Australia can score one-way flights between Melbourne and Launceston from $46, Melbourne and the Gold Coast from $72, or Melbourne and Cairns from $105. Photograph: Supplied | The Tropic Dreaming of an overseas island getaway? Jetstar is offering heavily slashed fares to Bali, with one-way flights from Melbourne starting at $195. Been there, done that? You can also nab one-way flights to other Southeast Asian hotspots like Thailand and the Phillipines, with flights from Melbourne to Bangkok starting at $290. You can explore the full range

In good news for local businesses, Australians didn’t hold back this summer. New data from NAB reveals that spending in holiday hotspots surged 80 per cent over the holiday period, injecting an extra $84 million into local economies. Unsurprisingly, the ten most popular (and profitable) summer destinations were all dotted along the coast, with a few underrated beach towns enjoying a welcome boost. Overall, the data reveals Aussies splurged around $188 million in the fortnight from December 20, 2025 to January 4, 2026, with restaurants, retail and accommodations benefiting the most. So, where did holidaygoers splash the most cash? Photograph: Josie Withers While Victoria’s iconic summer spots – like the Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island and the Great Ocean Road – drew plenty of visitors, it was Lakes Entrance that saw the biggest spending spike. Sitting on the edge of Ninety Mile Beach, this popular Gippsland beach town is famed for its shimmering lakes, thrilling water sports, family-friendly stays and world-class seafood. Accommodation spending in Lakes Entrance saw the biggest increase out of anywhere in Australia during the peak summer period, increasing a whopping 633 per cent over the two weeks. Two underrated Tasmanian coastal towns also made the top ten. St Helens, the largest town on the north-east coast, saw the third-largest spending spike, with service station sales jumping 338 per cent – proof that summer is prime road-tripping season in Tassie. Further south

I think we can all agree that the summer break flew by way too fast. If you’re keen to extend your holiday or lock in an early-year getaway, Jetstar has just dropped a super four-day sale that’s exactly what you need. With flights to Bali from just $149 and domestic flights around Australia from only $37, it’s the best belated Christmas present we could ask for. Jetstar’s Weekend Fare Frenzy is running for just four days, kicking off at midday (AEDT) today (Thursday, January 9) and ending at 11.59pm (AEDT) on Monday, January 12. You’ll want to nab tickets quickly though, as the best dates are likely to sell out earlier. And with travel dates between mid-January and early April, you could literally be packing your bags next week. You’ll need to pack your sunnies and bathers, because many of the 40,000 discounted international and domestic fares are to peak summer hotspots. Those keen to holiday in Australia can score one-way flights from Sydney to Ballina from $37, Launceston to Melbourne from $46, Sunshine Coast to Sydney from $55, Melbourne to the Gold Coast from $72, Sydney to the Whitsundays from $85, or Melbourne to Cairns from $105. Photograph: Julian Vinci via UnsplashEcho Beach, Canggu Dreaming of an overseas island getaway trip? Jetstar is offering heavily slashed fares to Bali, with one-way flights out of Perth from $149, Darwin from $169, Melbourne from $195, Adelaide and Brisbane from $199, and Sydney from $209. Been there, done that? You can also nab one-way fli

Hands up if you love a public holiday! Same. And good news: Australia’s 2026 calendar is packed with public hols just begging to be turned into long weekends or cheeky overseas adventures (once you’ve mastered the art of maximising your annual leave). The year starts off strong with the January 26 public holiday, Easter and Anzac Day, then ends on a high with Christmas and Boxing Day. In between, each state and territory celebrates its own set of public holidays, with the ACT benefiting from the most at a generous 15 days off. It’s no wonder our nation’s capital was just named the world’s third-most relaxing city to live in. One thing to note: Anzac Day (April 25) lands on a Saturday in 2026, meaning most of the country is one public holiday short. Only the ACT and Western Australia will observe it on the following Monday (April 27). Scroll on to see exactly which public holidays you can lock into your calendar in your state or territory. Australian Capital Territory (ACT) New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1 Australia/Invasion Day: Monday, January 26 Canberra Day: Monday, March 9 Good Friday: Friday, April 3 Easter Saturday: Saturday, April 4 Easter Sunday: Sunday, April 5 Easter Monday: Monday, April 6 Anzac Day observation: Monday, April 27 Reconciliation Day: Monday, June 1 King’s Birthday: Monday, June 8 Labour Day: Monday, October 5 Christmas Day: Friday, December 25 Boxing Day: Saturday, December 26 Boxing Day observation: Monday, December 28 New South Wales (NSW) Ne

Many Aussies would agree that summer is the best season, where days are made for lazing on our beautiful beaches and golden hour rolls effortlessly into balmy nights, perfect for sunset picnics and outdoor barbecues. But there’s another, often overlooked reason to love the warmer months Down Under – it’s prime fruit-picking season, and cherries are the star of the show right now. If you’re looking for a sweet trivia nugget, Australia produces more than 20,000 tonnes of cherries every year. These sweet, heart-shaped gems come in all shapes and sizes, with 80 varieties grown across the country – from the humid Granite Belt in Queensland to the sun-soaked orchards of Victoria’s Sunraysia and the cool, temperate climate of Tasmania. We reckon nothing beats biting into a big, juicy cherry plucked straight from the tree – and this summer, you can experience the sweetness for yourself on a cherry-picking adventure. Handily, the nation’s fastest-growing automotive guide – Chery (yes, we see what they did there) – has put together a state-by-state guide to the best pick-your-own cherry spots in Australia. For the best experience, the experts recommend setting off in the morning when it’s cooler and quieter, as cherries stay fresher when picked earlier in the day. While frolicking through the orchards, look for firm, plump fruits with a deep red-purple colour, and pick them with the stem on to keep them fresher for longer.  Photograph: Visit Victoria | CherryHill Orchards Cherry se

If being punctual is on your New Year’s resolution list, then perhaps you can learn a lesson from some of Australia’s major airlines. Aviation analytics company Cirium has just published its 2025 performance review of the world’s most punctual airlines. While no Aussie operators made the global top ten, our two largest airlines were neck-and-neck on the Asia-Pacific leaderboard. Qantas or Virgin – who do you reckon came out on top? After analysing more than 2.5 million flights in 2025, Philippine Airlines was awarded the title of the most on-time operator in the Asia-Pacific. 83.12 per cent of its flights landed as scheduled, putting it far above the top-ten average of 78.14 per cent – though still below the top-ten averages in Europe (83.32 per cent), Latin America (83.74 per cent), and the Middle East and Africa (84.86 per cent). Narrowing in on Australia, Virgin re-entered the top ten to claim the title of the nation’s most punctual airline, with 76.54 per cent of flights arriving as planned. It narrowly edged out rival Qantas, which landed in ninth with 76.51 per cent of on-time arrivals. According to the aviation experts, “Both carriers appear to have benefited from adding new aircraft that have limited capacity growth but built greater network resilience.” Globally, Aeromexico topped the charts as the most on-time airline of 2025, boasting a 90.02 per cent reliability rate. You can check out the global top ten report here, or scroll down to see the Asia-Pacific ranking.

We’ve made it to the start of yet another year, and you know what that means – it’s officially time to start locking in your 2026 travel plans. So, where to go? Time Out’s global team of editors have put together a mega list of the best places to travel in 2026 – complete with tips on planning the perfect trip in each. From offbeat towns to culinary hotspots and far-flung islands, there’s something for every type of traveller – including one stunning slice of paradise in Australia. With a coastline that stretches for thousands of kilometres, it’s no surprise that our island nation is fringed by more than 8,000 smaller islands. Our top pick for your 2026 travels is none other than Rottnest Island – a protected West Coast nature reserve famed for its beautiful beaches, car-free roads and smiley quokkas. Photograph: Tourism Western Australia Known to the Traditional Noongar Owners as Wadjemup, and affectionately as ‘Rotto’ by locals, this mindblowingly beautiful slice of paradise has long been a favourite for day trippers, just a scenic 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle or 90 minutes from Perth. This year, visitors have even more reason to stay awhile with the island’s newest luxury stay, The Lodge Wadjemup, unveiling its dreamy poolside rooms in mid-2025. At the start of summer, the island also added pickleball courts, Aboriginal cultural experiences and a new accessible boardwalk at South Thomson for scenic strolls. But let’s be real – Rotto’s secluded bays and friendly qu

Dreaming of a European getaway this year? From sipping Aperols on the Amalfi Coast to chasing sunsets in Santorini, the lure of a Eurosummer is hard to resist – but in 2026, it may come with a few extra costs. As cities across the western continent grapple with overtourism, many are introducing new tourist taxes and fees for visitors – Aussies included. In some spots, you can now expect to pay an additional tax on top of your overnight accommodation, while in others a ‘daytrip fee’ might apply to explore iconic routes or landmarks. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the biggest new charges Aussies should be aware of for their upcoming European adventures. Bucharest What: A tourist tax charged by your accommodation provider or online booking platform, like Airbnb.Cost: 10 Romanian leu per night (~$3.40)When: From early 2026 Tenerife What: An ‘eco tax’ to hike Mount Teide National Park’s most popular routes (guided/unguided), like the Telesforo Bravo summit walk and Montaña Blanca.Cost: Up to €25 (~$44)When: From January 1 Barcelona (Catalonia) What: A higher tourist surcharge applied to overnight stays across the city.Cost: €5 per night (~$8.70)When: From January 1 Rome What: A new visitor entry fee for several popular landmarks that were previously free, like the Trevi Fountain.Cost: €2 (~$3.50)When: From February 1 Photograph: Rudolf-Peter Bakker via Unsplash Netherlands What: A daytripper fee to visit the iconic windmills in the tiny Dutch town of Zaanse SchansCos

You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who genuinely enjoys a long-haul flight (unless you’re stretched out in first class with a Champagne in hand). But for most of us, the jet lag chaos, swollen feet, dry cabin air and questionable plane food are a small price to pay for the chance to explore new corners of the globe. And you can make your journey as comfy as possible by flying with one of the world’s best airlines for long-haul flights, as revealed by new data. The good news is that the majority of them fly out of Australia – and one top-performer is proudly Aussie-born and bred. To compile the ranking, insurance comparison website MoneySuperMarket compiled data for the world’s biggest airlines across ten criteria, including timeliness, reliability, value, seat comfort, Skytrax score, in-flight entertainment, service and food. Each factor was scored out of five, adding up to a total rating out of 50. Interestingly, Asian and Middle Eastern airlines dominate the ranking, claiming four of the world’s five highest-rated spots. Singapore Airlines soared into first place with an overall score of 36.95, performing particularly well for value for money, in-flight experience and reliability. Despite being named the world’s best airline by Skytrax in 2025, Qatar Airways came in second place with a score of 36.24 – largely missing out on the top spot due to its lower value-for-money rating. Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific followed in third (33.41), with all three top long-haul airli