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It's hard to argue that Australia's east coast, with its award-winning beaches and world-famous landmarks, is a hidden gem when it comes to tourism. But while destinations like Byron Bay and Bondi are household names well beyond our borders, there are plenty of places across the country that deserve a little more international attention. One of them is Newcastle, the coastal NSW city two hours north of Sydney, which has just been named one of the world's most underrated destinations for 2027.
The annual list of the world's most underrated destinations was compiled by Time Out's international travel team, highlighting places that deserve more visitors beyond the usual tourist hotspots. Newcastle has secured the number 30 spot in this year's ranking, continuing its run as an internationally recognised under-the-radar destination after previously making the list in 2025, when it ranked ninth.
And it's not hard to see why the city keeps catching the attention of travel experts. Sitting on the traditional lands of the Awabakal and Worimi people, Newcastle is one of Australia's most unique coastal cities, with a proper urban centre sitting just moments from a beautiful surf beach. Around two hours by car or two-and-a-half hours by train from Sydney, the former coal-mining and port town has evolved into a destination with a whole lot more to offer than its industrial past.
These days, you'll find a thriving café culture, world-class restaurants, live music venues, a seriously impressive art gallery, the biggest ocean pool in the Southern Hemisphere and some truly magical coastal walks. Spend a summer afternoon swimming at Nobbys Beach or taking a dip in the open-air Merewether Ocean Baths, then stretch your legs with a walk up to Nobbys Lighthouse before exploring the waterfront Honeysuckle precinct. Perfection. When the sun starts to set, head to the rooftop bar at QT Newcastle for a cocktail, before settling in for dinner at local favourite Flotilla, where the menu celebrates beautiful regional produce and wine.
As Time Out Travel Editor Alice Ellis puts it: "In Newcastle you get the best of a relaxed beach escape and buzzing city break in one."
Our advice? Get there before the word gets out.
You can read our full guide to Newcastle here.
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