Caitlyn Todoroski

The Emerald City is peppered with a whole host of dreamy stays – from boutique boltholes with rooftop pools overlooking trendy city suburbs to sky-high towers with uninterrupted views of the Opera House. To help you choose which is right for you, our team of writers (including Lifestyle Writer Winnie Stubbs and Travel and News Editor Melissa Woodley) have shared their top picks for the best places to stay in Sydney – along with tips on how to make the most of your stay. 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: These are the best glamping sites in NSW. These are the best camping sites near Sydney. And these are the best spots for a weekend away if you’re keen to get out of town. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

You know what’s finally trending in 2025? Self-care. While a warm bubble bath or 15-minute face mask is a nice pick-me-up, nothing beats a full-on pamper session at the spa. And boy does Australia have some pretty phenomenal pamper palaces that’ll leave you glowing from head to toe. Whether you’re treating yourself to a five-star massage while on holiday or searching for a local bathhouse to add to your weekly routine, we think you should add these day spas to the top of your to-do list. Here are the best and most luxurious day spas in Australia right now. ⭐️ Australia's best health and wellness retreats🌳 Here are all the best things to do in Australia🖼️ Art exhibitions you need to see this year

So, you’ve decided you’re ready to explore Australia’s natural playground. You couldn’t resist the call of Darwin’s world-class hiking trails or the allure of its Indigenous stories, artworks and history. There’s no doubt that a trip to the Top End is bound to be fun, but among all the waterhole swimming, barramundi fishing and market stall perusing, you’ll need some good rest to do it all over again the next day.  With so many natural wonders, the Northern Territory can sometimes be a little difficult (and remote) to tour. It’s lucky then that the state’s capital acts as the ideal landing pad for day trips to all the national parks. In between your expeditions, experience luxury at Mindil Beach Casino Resort; take it back a notch with a home away from home at Argus Apartments; or splendour right in the thick of it at Hilton Darwin. Either way, in collaboration with Time Out Australia’s Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, and our local expert writers’ recommendations (including tried-and-tested reviews), these are the best hotels in Darwin to harbour a memorable trip up north. ☀️ All the best things to do in Darwin right now🍽️ The best restaurants in Darwin right now🚗 All the best day trips from 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 guidelines.

Half the fun of going on a holiday is the time you spend dreaming of your escape. From meticulously perusing Pinterest and Instagram for inspo on the must-visit venues to doing flatlays of your vacay ‘fits, there’s nothing like that pre-holiday buzz. We’re helping to narrow down your search time with the best of the ‘where’ and the ‘wear’ with the ICONIC’s expansive range of cool outdoor wear.  To escape the hustle of your day-to-day work life, hold the tech and double the cossies with a coastal core location in mind. If you’re shifting your focus to shopping local and supporting family businesses, dust off the maxi dresses for a vineyard core getaway. Like exploring the rugged side of Australia’s off-the-beaten track wonders? Our pick of camping core destinations are your go-to eco-conscious inspo. Where are you adding to your moodboard? And what are you packing?

A bar crawl in Newtown is the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure for the intrepid thirsty Sydneysider. It's also great if you simply don't like having to take more than a hop, skip and jump between venues. This eclectic Inner West 'burb has more bars than you can poke a cocktail stick at, from lazy beer gardens to rock 'n' roll vinyl joints and everything in between, found all the way down King St and up to Enmore Road. Newtown is one of our favourite boozing destinations – and here are the vert best places to check out on your next visit.  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 food? Check out the best restaurants Newtown has to offer, over here. Want more? Check out our guide the coolest bars in Sydney here.

When visiting a new city, it’s highly likely that, at some point, you’ll find yourself standing in front of a big and beautiful museum or gallery. Come rain, hail or shine, these brilliant buildings are the place to brush up on historical happenings and learn a thing or two about local heritage.  Inside Australia's best museums, you’ll find some of our country’s greatest treasures and a huge diversity of subject matters too, ranging from natural history and cultural artefacts to science marvels and sporting achievements. Don’t wait until the next rainy day to explore Australia’s best museums with this ultimate guide, curated by our very own local experts (including Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley and Arts & Culture Editor Alannah Le Cross). 🖼️ The best art galleries to explore in Australia🎶 All the biggest musicals touring Australia right now👀 The coolest art exhibitions to see in Australia

As far as Queensland’s playground goes, spending your time in Cairns really puts you in the front seat of all the action. The waterside town acts as the landing base not only for some of the world's best snorkelling, but some of the most gorgeous islands Queensland has to offer. That’s not to mention trekking it to the nearby rainforest for cableway rides, river tubing and croc-spotting.  After countless trips to Cairns, we’ve picked out the best hotels that will offer you stunning water views, tropical relaxation and access right to the town’s main strip of shops, and marina-side dining. Take your pick! ☀️ The best thing to do in Cairns right now😍 All the best hotels in Australia⛺️ Our pick of the best caravan parks  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.

Ah, Noosa. The Sunshine Coast destination is a mix of everything that is authentically (and wonderfully) Australian. It’s all sun, sand and surf along Noosa Heads, trendy eateries and boutiques down Hastings Street, hectares of gorgeous greenery at Noosa National Park, and that Aussie outback hospitality across the hinterland. When it comes to staying the week, we reckon your best bet is setting up camp right in Noosa Heads where all the action is. We’ve chosen the area’s best hotels for their welcoming nature, light-filled coastal rooms and proximity to the beach – some even beachfront; everything your sunny holiday should be. Here are the best hotels to book in Noosa right now.  ☀️ The best things to do in Noosa🍹 All the coolest restaurants in Noosa🌴 The 5 best beaches in Noosa Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Not that we're biased, but there's no denying Australia's got a lot going for it: where else in the world can you snorkel with rainbow fish, ski down snowy mountains, buggy across sand dunes and bounce across the high ropes of a rainforest canopy, all within the geographical bounds of one country? All this considered, it should come as no surprise that Australia’s options for a natural dip range right from naturally formed ocean rock pools along the island’s perimeter, to gorges and waterfalls deep among the outback. Whether it’s escaping the infamous chlorine-green hue that plagues the blondies or getting over that nagging feeling that a shark is circling in the depths of the deep blue sea, these natural swimming spots hold their own as a pretty decent substitution for the traditional swimming pool and a change of scenery from sandy shores. Remember that there are always risks involved with swimming, especially at unpatrolled places. Always take care to check things such as depth and currents before swimming or jumping into water, and confirm that others you’re swimming with are confident in the water before entering any swimming spot. If you're not a confident, experienced swimmer, avoid unpatrolled swimming spots altogether. 🌊 The best beaches in Australia🔥 Australia's dreamiest hot springs🏄 The top surf beaches Down Under

Whether it’s cosying up with pristine views of Lake Macquarie and the region’s beaches, or sailing on over it for lunch, plus a vibrant arts and culture scene and gorgeous strolls, there’s plenty to keep you busy here during the cooler months.  Just a 90-minute drive from Sydney, Lake Macquarie sits just between the Central Coast and Newcastle. In such a short time you’ll be out of the big smoke and among an abundance of natural beauty. Off-season means less crowds, more coastal bliss to yourself and, the best part – a whole heap of deals. Lots of tourism operators have hopped on board to offer a winter discount if you book before May 31, but with so many to choose from, we’ve rounded up the six best things to do in Lake Macquarie this winter.

It's one of the first places you'll visit as a tourist, a pre-theatre go-to, and home to some of the most iconic views in the world – but being a tourist hotspot means Circular Quay is not without its pitfalls. Thankfully, apart from the over-priced tourist traps, there’s still great eating and drinking to be had in the area if you know where to look. Living in Sydney – and working as a professional eater and drinker – I’ve spent my fair share of time in Circular Quay. Below, I’ve rounded up the best restaurants and bars in and around the harbour, from flash fine diners like Quay and Aria to Basque-inspired wine bar Deux Frères, cheap-and-cheerful spots like Mary's and Belles Hot Chicken, and top-notch watering holes Opera Bar and Apollonia. There’s a mix of price points and cuisines, but they’re all ace (unlike the annoying seagulls) – and somewhere you'd want to bring your mates from overseas. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. After restaurants in other parts of Sydney's city? Check out our guide to the best restaurants in the CBD. Want more? Check out our ultimate guide to the best restaurants in Sydney here.

Some Aussies unwind with their feet up, a fire crackling or waves crashing – depending on the season). Others need a little more oomph to truly switch off, unpacking the anxieties of real life on long and winding walks, with scenery that makes you forget what you were stressing about in the first place. From those moments that make time stand still to tropical destinations you can escape to in the thick of winter, our local writers have handpicked the best relaxation destinations in all of Australia. You can wine and dine through one of our country's top grape-growing regions, spend days soaking up the sun on the beach or melt away your stress with a spa or sauna sesh. Take your pick and switch into relaxation mode. 😍 The most beautiful places in Australia🌈 All the must-visit destinations in Australia🌸 Australia's most colourful landmarks 

A brand-new festival is set to spark playful curiosity around Randwick’s hotspots – and everyone’s invited. The Randwick Creative Night brings vibrant markets and free interactive art activities to three easily walkable locations in Randwick on Friday, April 11, marking the start of the school holidays.  More than 40 market stalls will take over the Heritage Quarter of the hospital, right by the Randwick Light Rail stop, with local favourites like the traditional Portuguese custard tarts from House of Natas, handcrafted smoked meats from Bondi Smokehouse, and pizzas and focaccias from Gargano Pizzeria. Free creative workshops led by acclaimed artists and local talent will be going down from 3pm at Inglis Park at Newmarket (Barker Street) and The Spot (Perouse Road & St Paul Street). Be sure to bring your creative energy as NIDA Open will run several small group acting classes for kids and adults, while Gujaga Foundation will be hosting workshops on Indigenous shell art.  Our tip? Make use of the light rail and get there on a shoestring.  If you’re just passing through, there are plenty of ‘drop in and make’ sessions, including one led by celebrated artist Nadia Odlum, as well as a collaborative community canvas with Mindgardens and the Black Dog Institute. Rochelle Haley, the artist behind the dramatic ‘Lunar Sway’ artwork that lights up Randwick’s Nurses Drive every night, will also be doing an artist talk.   Randwick Creative Night is running on Friday, April 11 from 3-9pm.

The blue whale is the largest member of the animal kingdom – its heart weighs in at the same mass as a small car. Put simply, the sheer size of this incredible species is a hard one to grasp. These school holidays, IMAX is making things a little easier to visualise with an inspiring 3D film following two scientific expeditions to uncover fascinating blue whale behaviours. Narrated by the legendary Andy Serkis, who voiced Gollum in The Lord of the Rings, the documentary takes viewers alongside dolphins and orcas, and looks at how scientists collect flying snot for data (ew, but also, cool!) and the head scientist, aka the ‘Blue Whale Whisperer’, listens to blue whales communicating with eachother. From just $12 for kids, and $26.50 for adults, you’ll get an IMAX doco ticket and general entry to Melbourne Museum so you can kick back and immerse yourself in the incredible exhibitions. Blue Whales 3D is screening during the Easter school holidays, with sessions daily from 10am to 2pm. Book your tickets here.

With its rich cultural make-up and diverse array of delicious cuisines, it’s already pretty hard to leave Liverpool on an empty stomach. Now, for five weekends across March and April, the Most Blessed Nights markets will make you even more spoilt for choice.  This street food fest is taking over Macquarie Mall from Thursdays to Sundays, starting at 6pm each evening. There’ll be lights, there’ll be family fun, and of course, there will be some fan-favourite local food offerings.  There will be camel burgers, chargrilled plates, falafels galore, moreish kebabs, spiced skewers, cheesy tacos and more. A range of cuisines will be served up by Yummy Time Dumpling and Pec African Kitchen to the Fijian Taste of Paradise and Indian skewers.  The markets run until midnight each night, so you’ve got plenty of time to grab dessert, too. Look forward to fresh chocolate-covered strawberries, fluffy hot loukoumades (fried doughnut balls), cookie crossaints, lady fingers and frozen treats, plus you can’t go past some gorgeously crunchy knafeh (a stretchy cheesy sugar-soaked pastry).  The Most Blessed Nights Street Food Market is on Thursday to Sunday from 6pm until March 23, and returns again from April 17 to 20. For the full list of market stallholders across the event and more information, head here.

How good is autumn in Sydney? Even though March marks the end of summer, it’s a blissful time to be out in this city, and that’s what Waterloo Autumn Festival is all about – getting out and about, making the most of time outdoors, picking up some fresh seasonal produce and enjoying live entertainment. On Sunday, March 30, Waterloo’s Young Street – in between Danks and McEvoy Streets – will come alive with community and market stalls selling delicious produce, as well as lunch and snack options. There’ll also be live music; a dedicated kids area complete with arts and crafts, games and entertainment; and a pet-friendly zone so your fur-baby doesn’t need to miss out on the action – all among the rusty-hued autumn trees. This all-ages festival is free to attend, and it’s being put on by Danks St. District and DASCO (the crew bringing new life to Waterloo through their development projects).  So on the last Sunday in March, head over to Waterloo (why not jump on the Metro?) and get in on the action.  Waterloo Autumn Festival is happening on Sunday, March 30 between McEvoy St and Danks St from 10am to 3pm. If you register here, look forward to claiming a free food coupon on the day.

Put Legoland Discovery Centre Melbourne on your radar for a pit stop because the Lego F1-themed Build the Thrill event has rolled into town just in time for the Australian Grand Prix.  From now until April 27, your ticket purchase to the brick wonderland includes a pit pass to some wheel-y cool Lego of epic proportions. Check out a 3D Brick-built Lego F1 car made from more than 21,000 bricks and then build your own version.  You’ll get to choose an F1 team, build your own Minifigure driver and then pop your driver into a custom-built race car. Race on the track, claim all the glory of pole position and celebrate on the Build the Thrill podium. The fun doesn’t stop there. Guests can enjoy interactive challenges, epic photo opportunities, and an exclusive Lego F1 display in Miniland The kids-at-heart can get in on the action too, with an adults-only night on Friday, March 14. Enjoy all of Legoland kid-free and really let your competitive side loose on the track from 6pm to 9pm.  The Build the Thrill event is running at Legoland Discovery Centre Melbourne until April 27. Your pit pass is included in entry, which starts from $36 per person and is free for little ones under two. Purchase your ticket here.

One of Sydney's biggest galleries is welcoming a supersized collaboration. Inclusive organisations The A List, Create Space Art Initiative and Aspect have come together with the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia with an event that makes you the artist. The MCA, in partnership with beloved stationery brand Faber-Castell, invites people of all ages to the gallery on Saturday, March 15 for a drawing bonanza. Whether you're an adult or young family, there's a drop-in activity for you. Draw your way from the MCA forecourt at Warrane (Circular Quay) all the way through the building. From a giant outdoor chalk canvas to the Level 3 Family Space, experiment with different drawing materials and build your own structure using cardboard. As you move throughout the museum, watch the cityscape grow and murals move up the stairwell. All these free activities are inspired by the colourful and energetic Julie Mehretu exhibition. It’s one of the major summer installations as part of the Sydney International Art Series 2024-25. You'll need a ticket for this must-see show – though it’s free for children under 18, Australian students and MCA members. On Saturday, March 15, the MCA is your canvas all day long. Find out more here.

Just like the Easter school holidays creep up on you, so does the spending on activities to keep the kids entertained. Skip out on the eye-watering ticket prices and pay a visit to the great-value Ingenia Holiday Parks Sydney Family Show this autumn. The family affair returns to the Entertainment Quarter in Moore Park, set to put the little – and not-so-little – ones in the Easter spirit without costing you a pretty penny. This year, the festivities kick off on Saturday, April 12 and will run until Sunday, April 27. The jam-packed program features everything from high-energy motorcycle and bike stunt shows to adorable little daschund meet and greets, carnival-style games and a carousel the whole family can enjoy. There will also be an adrenaline-pumping obstacle course, dodgem cars, a thrilling reptile show where you can get up close with snakes and crocs, and an animal nursery with cuddly ducklings, chicks, lambs, goats and piglets. Of course, there will be showbags galore too. For the first time the event welcomes an exciting lineup of shows set to wow little fans. The Paw Patrol Stage Show runs from April 12 to April 22 and the Bluey Live Interactive Experience from April 23 to April 27, and even better, there will be opportunities throughout the day to meet the characters (and snap a cheeky pic, too).  Be sure to go for a wander through the Easter Basket Zone and stock up on some treats. Animal lovers will be pleased to know that April 27 is Greyhound Adoption Day where v

Sydney is abuzz with Lion King-mania. In addition to the announcement of the hit-musical returning to the Capitol Theatre, the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra is giving Sydneysiders the opportunity to experience the film like never before.  While Simba prances through all of the catchiest tunes on the big screen at The Concourse in Chatswood, the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra will congregate down below. The live music will have you feeling like you're among the pridelands – get ready for goosebumps.  From Pumbaa and Timon’s infectiously uplifting ‘Hakuna Matata’ to the rousing ‘Circle of Life’, the movie’s soundtrack was put together by a collection of Oscar- and Grammy-winning musicians like Elton John and composer Hans Zimmer. With all that talent, it’s one of the best scores you could catch live.  There are two daytime performances you can catch – Saturday, April 5 and Sunday, April 6. You can snag tickets, starting from $45 to $275 for a family ticket, here.

Riding into town this March on his white horse is country music star Chris Stapleton. Not only will Sydneysiders delight in his sold-out shows at Qudos Bank Arena, but can also look forward to what may be Australia’s biggest whiskey shout. From Thursday, February 27, Sydney bar Jolene’s – in the CBD's YCK precinct – is shouting nips of liquid gold every day for a month at 8pm. And it's not just any shout. Chris Stapleton’s new Traveller Whiskey has been distilled by the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery, so you know you’re in for something good.  Catch a free daily tasting while you can, and while you’re at it, sample one of the Traveller cocktails, like the Parachute, Traveller Old Fashioned, and East Kentucky Sweet Tea. If you need something to line the stomach, the pop-up will also be dishing out Traveller tater tots (that's mini hash browns, for us Aussies) with smoky brisket, liquid cheese and whiskey-infused barbecue sauce. How’s that for southern comfort?  There aren’t any promises that Chris will make an appearance, but a little birdie told us to never say never. Find out more about the deal here.

It’s no secret that the Star Wars film scores boast some of the most easily recognised and universally loved melodies of all time. Watching the futuristic franchise, including the most recent trilogy, is goosebump-inducing enough, but to really up the ante, catch a screening with a live orchestra.  Hamer Hall welcomes the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for a cosmic rendition of The Force Awakens. While the film plays on the big screen, the orchestra down below will play John Williams’ heroic score, conducted by Benjamin Northey. The movie, set three decades after the destruction of the second Death Star, follows the unlikely teaming up of Han Solo and Chewbacca with and ex-stormtrooper and desert scavenger. Together with Resistance leader General Leia Organa, they try to overturn the First Order.  Strap in for two hours and four minutes of action, including time for an interval.  You’ve got three chances to catch the spectacle: May 22, 23 and 24. Tickets are selling fast so jump on it and purchase yours here. Prices start from $81.

What lengths would you resort to if you survived a plane crash and became stranded in the wilderness? Cannibalism seems very far from mind but it’s a different story for WHS Yellowjacket soccer team. After two smash-hit seasons, Paramount+’s Yellowjackets is back for a third, and Surry Hills degustation diner Nel is celebrating with an ear-y feast. Nel’s renowned degustations are unexpected at the best of times, but for this dramatic affair, we’re talking 11 courses of eating your heart out.  This is a chance for diehard Yellowjacket fans – and their plus ones – to get immersed in the vibes of the show, all while challenging the senses. And while the food will most certainly surprise and excite, let’s just say we’ve been to Nel recently and we know that everything chef Nelly Robinson serves up is delicious.  While Nel’s degustation dinners are a premium affair, this incomparable experience is literally priceless – you can enter the competition to dine for free here. There’s a dinner running each night from March 4 to March 7, and there are 18 double passes each night up for grabs. Yellowjackets season three is now streaming on Paramount+.

It’s summertime in the Harbour City, and you know you can't go wrong with some picnic blankets, antipasto snacks, and live music. Bonus points if there's a sunset and a harbour view involved.  Sunset Sessions – Cockatoo Island's family-friendly outdoor gig series – is back and running every Saturday evening from January 11 to April 5 (except February 8, when the island will be taken over by the Nowhere Festival). A carefully curated line-up of local and not-so-local acts (brought together by Sydney tastemakers The Music & Booze Co) will be playing on the lawn of the Biloela House every Saturday evening, where there will be grazing boxes and refreshments aplenty.  There's a broad range of talents to take in, with artists hailing from all over Australia – with a mix acoustic sets, folk, contemporary and feel-good sounds. Highlights from the line-up so far include First Nations traditional language storyteller Maanyung, sibling doo-wop duo Surely Shirley and etherial physch spaceman Misty Lanes, with more acts still to be announced.You can catch Sunset Sessions on Saturdays from 5.30pm, but get there early when the gates open at 5pm to soak in the atmosphere. Tickets are $35, and children under 12 can attend for free. If you find yourself wanting more of Cockatoo Island’s out-of-this-world views, you can turn your Sunset Session into a sunrise by booking a night at the island’s heritage listed lodgings or the waterfront campground. For the first few events (from January 11 until

Imagine a pub from 1980s Australia – and then imagine it never got a refurb. Sounds a little outdated, but at Baptist Street Rec. Club – Redfern’s new bar found at Wunderlich Lane, home to Olympus, Lottie and The Eve, among others – it’s nostalgic, and also a little bit edgy. Retro posters and pop art adorn the walls, and drinks are served in glasses that look like they’re straight outta your nan’s good glassware collection (you know the ones). Speaking of tipples, booze aficionados Dan Cramsie (ex Clam Bar, Pepito’s and Double Deuce Lounge) and House Made Hospitality (Island Radio, Apollonia, Bar Mammoni) beverage director Jason Williams have teamed up to create a refreshing bar menu. Fun takes on nostalgic cocktails are the norm here at the latest venue from House Made Hospitality (the team behind Sydney favourites Grana, Apollonia and more). Think a Breakfast Martini with spiced pineapple marmalade, and a Strawberry Daiquiri flavoured with strawberry cordial. Photograph: Steven Woodburn Monthly specials stay on rotation, with the opening stars including the Bloody Mary’s savoury and down-to-earth cousin: a Beetroot Negroni. The wine list spotlights small-batch producers, and the brews are mostly local, including the house-made Reccy Lager. When you get the munchies, Thai-inspired eatery Bangkok Dreaming offers salty specialities galore. Its share platters feature all the Aussie-fied favourite nibblies like spring rolls, money bags and fish cakes. All of which are a nod t

Calling all chip-on-a-stick fans and aspiring farmers! Sydney’s favourite agricultural festival, carnival ride mecca and baby animal pat-fest is back for 2025. When is the Easter Show Sydney? This year's Easter Show will kick off on Friday, April 11, and run for 12 full days until Tuesday, April 22. How much are Easter Show Sydney tickets?  The early bird gets the worm when it comes to tickets – if you purchase your passes before the show kicks off on Friday, April 11, you can hook cheaper tickets, and if you purchase online in advance of your arrival, you’ll also be doing yourself a favour.  Early-bird pre-show tickets (Before April 11): $45 per adult $27 per child (4-15 years old + 16-18 year olds with a student ID card) $33.50 for concession  $118 for a family pass (two adults, two children).    Online purchase once the show has started (April 11 onwards): $48.00 per Adult $29.50 per child $36.00 for concession Children under 3 are allowed in for free. Note that these tickets just include entry for the show – rides, showbags and food are all at various additional costs.  Where is the Easter Show Sydney?  The Sydney Royal Easter Show takes place at the same beloved location each year: Sydney Showground at Sydney Olympic Park is the prime possie for the show’s elaborate agricultural displays and competitions, plus a whole heap of rides.  How to get to the Easter Show Sydney? Sydney Showground is located right next to the Olympic Park Train Station. Limited stops and express

Hughes Street in Potts Point is anticipating its annual shutdown on December 25 to make way for the Wayside Chapel Christmas Day Lunch and Street Party for homeless members of the community. Thanks to over $1,400,000 in donations from the public, the Wayside Chapel will provide over 1,000 Christmas lunches “with all the trimmings” to people who’d otherwise have nowhere else to spend the public holiday. While they've met their fundraising target for 2024, demand for the service grows each and every year, so you can still donate to support the cost of keeping their kitchens, programs and support services open across the festive season. Not only is their aid in the Christmas spirit — they provides daily support for thousands of homeless people living in Sydney. Last year, they provided over 86,000 meals to vulnerable community members who walked through the doors at the Kings Cross shelter in need of nourishment. The Christmas community event that's been running for over 40 years encourages anyone who is living on the street, lost or lonely, on Christmas Day to join the free party. There’ll be a Christmas breakfast at 9am, a service at 10am and lunch at 11.30am followed by a street party full of DJ's, live music, dancing and activities until 5.30pm. More than 100 volunteers help out on the day, serving up 100kg of prawns, 50 hams and 500 Christmas puddings.   Guests can look forward to a visit from Santa Claus, alongside Christmas songs, kids’ activities, (fake) tattoo stati

Sydney is a very doggo-friendly city. There are countless parks, beaches and pubs that welcome your fur babies with open arms. That’s not to mention the Santa Paws event, dedicated entirely to canine Christmas cheer. As it turns out, Sydneysiders take the term “fur babies” quite literally. We're facing a (human) baby recession (with birth rates lower than they've been in 18 years) – this, coupled with an increase in companion animal registrations leads us to a city where pups outnumber kids aged under 15 in 16 out of 34 Sydney councils.  The Sydney Morning Herald uncovered that in the City of Sydney, there are more than two dogs for every child. Woollahra and the Inner West come in a pretty close second, with around 1.7 dogs for every child. Mosman and the Northern Beaches sit at around 1.25 dogs per child, and even the Sutherland Shire is up there, with the same figure.  From 2019 to 2023, pet numbers grew by over 20 per cent in a third of Greater Sydney’s councils. While we may have calmed down a little post-pandemic, it seems dog children aren't going anywhere. People love their pets.  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:  There’s $638 million unclaimed by NSW residents. Here’s how to cash in. Rental hacks: how to get ahead in Sydney’s competitive property market. Sydney has ranked among the top 10 best cities in the world for 2025.

The Ramadan Nights food market has become a Western Sydney institution during the holy month of Ramadan. More than one million Sydneysiders flock to Lakemba’s eat street – Haldon Street – after dark to enjoy an abundant array of halal dishes from a range of different Muslim cultures to break fast. While the month-long event has its way of bringing the Muslim community together, and sharing the Islam religion with the rest of Sydney, Canterbury-Bankstown Council and Muslim leaders have some concerns with how big the event has grown.  Their concerns boil down to: the sheer size of the event causing congestion, the event commercialising a holy tradition, and the costliness of the event (it cost the council $3 million dollars this year).  So, there was a unanimous vote by councillors to implement four changes to the markets from 2025 onwards. These changes are:  Moving stalls from the footpaths to the road; This means that instead of stallholders paying local businesses $6,000 total to rent out the space at the front of the restaurant for the whole month, they will pay $600 per night to the council; Renaming the event from ‘Ramadan Nights, Lakemba’ to ‘Lakemba Nights’ to separate the increasingly commercial event from the Islamic tradition of Ramadan; Reducing the number of days the stall is run from seven nights a week to four (Thursday to Sunday). This equals less nights for council staff and contractors to work and be paid, helping reduce costs.  At the moment, the changes a

Aside from Music of the Spheres being an arena spectacular of a show to witness live, it’s also produced some very epic stage design. The bright lights, big bouncing spheres, spectrum of colours and galactic themes are all features of Coldplay’s merch drop for the tour, and we can’t get our hands on the stuff fast enough. Here’s your guide on how to buy it.  When are the Coldplay Sydney shows? The four sold-out shows at Accor Stadium started on Wednesday night (November 6), then continue through Thursday, November 7, Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10.  Where to buy official Coldplay merch in Sydney? Accor Stadium at Sydney Olympic Park held a merch pre-sale day in Sydney (on Tuesday, November 5), but that’s done and dusted now. At the moment you can purchase Coldplay merch from their official website. That being said, of the few items that aren’t sold out, or on pre-order, there are pretty limited sizes available. Never fear because you can buy from stalls at the stadium. Those stalls included stock that is sold out online, and some items that can’t even be purchased from the website.  What Coldplay merch can you buy in Sydney?  T-shirts, drink bottles, posters, caps, bucket hats, programmes, hoodies, CDs, keychains, drawstring bags and more. There goes a week’s pay. Wondering how to get to the Coldplay Sydney concerts? Here's all the public transport info you need. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, things to do and tr

Well, Sydney, a Hymn for the Weekend is finally this week. Coldplay took to the stage on Wednesday, November 6 and Thursday, November 7, and they're back again on Saturday and Sunday nights. The tour is one of the most highly anticipated music events of the year. Actually, event, period. With more than 300,000 fans expected at the four sell-out shows, the experience is up there with T-Swift’s Eras Tour earlier this year – and Sydney Trains is accommodating for this in the same theatrical way. Leave the car at home and start the party early with these public transport options... How to get to the Coldplay Sydney concert at Accor Stadium  Accor Stadium is situated very conveniently near Olympic Park Station. It’s less than a ten-minute walk away and has regular buses and trains passing through. On the nights of the Coldplay Tour, Transport NSW is running 568 extra trains and 650 extra buses. Not only are there all these extra options, but they’ll be decked out in the spirit of the Music of the Spheres tour. The trains will be playing Coldplay hits. And the L1 light rail will also be running for a little later than usual, until 1am, to make getting home easier for people on that line.  Which trains go to the Coldplay Sydney shows?  To get to the concerts, express trains from Central to Olympic Park will run every three to four minutes. You’ll know exactly which trains to catch, because ‘Coldplay Music of the Spheres’ will be displayed on the boards marking your destination. On t

After a mad scramble to snag tickets to witness the arena spectacular that is a Coldplay Sydney concert, 80,000 lucky Sydneysiders get to watch the global superstars work their magic live for four nights. Shows started on Wednesday, November 6, and run through to Sunday, November 10, 2024. We went on Thursday night, and it was everything and more than we hoped. Tears streamed down our faces – as did the rain – but nothing could dampen the experience. It was a magical experience, a stadium full of stars. Here's everything you need to know... When is the Coldplay Sydney Music of the Spheres Tour? Coldplay is taking the stage at Accor Stadium in Sydney for four nights: Wednesday, November 6, Thursday, November 7, Saturday, November 9, and Sunday, November 10, 2024.  How to get to the Coldplay Sydney concert The 10,000 car parking spaces at Olympic Park are expected to be booked out well in advance. It can also get pretty congested leaving the carpark at the end of the night. So public transport is often the best option for getting to Olympic Park. Olympic Park Station is less than a ten-minute walk from the stadium, hundreds of additional trains and buses will run to and back from Olympic Park during the Coldplay concerts, the cost of travel is already included in your concert ticket – just show your Coldplay concert ticket to board. Plus, Sydney Trains are putting on a bit of a show for fans on the trains, playing music to hype everyone up. Here's everything you need to know ab

There are so many wonderful things about living in Melbourne – but affordable property is definitely not one of them. In fact, our city recently ranked seventh on a worldwide list of the most expensive cities to buy a home in. So if you're a hopeful home buyer despairing about your chances of snagging a decent property, here's some good news: there are still a few hidden gems across the city where you can buy a home at a (more) reasonable price and also see it quickly appreciate in value, you just need to know where to find them. Real estate expert John McGrath recently released his annual list of suburbs to keep an eye on, so you can get insider tips on the spots with the best potential.  Melbourne's west is fast becoming a super popular area for people cracking into the property market, and one suburb in particular is shaping up to be the next hotspot. Due to its proximity to the West Gate Tunnel (slated to open in 2025), Altona North will soon have a direct connection to the CBD and broader Melbourne, which will add value to properties in the neighbourhood in the future. While it's considered more of an up-and-comer right now, it's very close to some beloved parts of the western 'burbs like Yarraville and Williamstown, but its properties aren't as expensive.  Further north, another suburb that's ripe with potential is Keilor East. This area is also set to gain transport connections, with a new train station slated as part of the future Melbourne Airport rail link (although

Metallica has been going strong on their hectic world tour ever since April 2023, and the hallowed heavy metal giants are showing no signs of slowing down. On the record-breaking M72 World Tour, the band has played to around three million fans across the globe, with the LA Times saying they're “as tight and furious as Metallica has sounded in ages”. Now it’s time for OG Aussie metal fans to get pumped because the M72 World Tour is officially coming to Australia, including Sydney. Better yet, it has been confirmed that the much-loved ‘snake pit’, which allows fans extremely close to the action, will make an appearance Down Under. Read on for everything you need to know about the Metallica Sydney and Australia tour....  What dates are the Metallica Sydney shows? The tour will hit Sydney next Spring, for a single show at Accor Stadium on November 15, 2025.  When do Metallica Sydney tickets go on sale? General sales are happening this Friday, November 1, at 2pm local time. You can tickets over here.  Is there a Metallica Sydney presale? There are so many presales that we need dot points to keep track. Here they are: Mastercard Presale (Sydney/Adelaide/Brisbane): Wednesday, October 30 from 1pm until Friday, November 1, 1pm Vodafone & One NZ Presale: Wednesday, October 30 from 1pm until Friday, November 1, 1pm Live Nation Presale: Friday, November 1 from 12pm until Monday, November 4, 11am Stadium Presale: Friday, November 1 from 2pm until Monday, November 4, 11am How much will

Sydney's got a lot going for it – affordable property is not one of those things. In fact, we recently claimed spot number two on the world’s list of most expensive cities to buy a home in. All things considered, there are still a few hidden gems across the grid where you can snag a home at a (more) reasonable price, you just need to know where to find them. Real Estate expert John McGrath (you know, the name on all those SOLD signs?) released his annual list of suburbs buyers should keep an eye on, and there are some great finds in there.  With the new Metro line, and the light rail already running through to Dulwich Hill, it’s no surprise that Sydney’s Inner West is the place to purchase right now. Dulwich Hill itself made the cut, and so did neighbouring suburb Summer Hill. Once the new section of Metro line (to Marrickville, Dulwich Hill and beyond) is completed, it will take mere minutes to get from Dully to Central.   Glebe and its beautiful little terrace houses also made the cut. Although this suburb is certainly no secret, McGrath reckons that its become somewhat underrated over the last few years. Being right next to the city, with a village atmosphere, fun venues, leafy parts, and good bus and light rail access, it's got everything going for it. Millers Point has been majorly gentrified (RIP social housing, boo) in the time that Barangaroo has come to life. Also with a new metro stop to be connected to the city, alongside a winding waterside walking track, it’s bes

After a frantic dash to nab tickets to the arena spectacular that is a Coldplay concert, it's finally almost time to watch the global superstars work their magic in Melbourne.  Due to sky-high demand, the ballad masters ended up adding extra shows, so Marvel Stadium will be abustle with Coldplay fans for four days, starting from Wednesday, October 30 through to Sunday, November 3.  Here's what we know so far about Coldplay’s Melbourne shows this week. When is Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres Tour in Melbourne? Coldplay will take to the stage at Marvel Stadium for their first Melbourne Music of the Spheres concert today (Wednesday, October 30). They'll also perform on Thursday, October 31, Saturday, November 2 and Sunday, November 3.  How to get to the Coldplay Melbourne concerts Marvel Stadium is right next door to Southern Cross Station, so public transport is by far the best option to get to the Coldplay Melbourne concert. Simply walk over the convenient footbridge to get from the platforms to the stadium entrance. For info on how to plan your public transport journey, head over here.  What time will Coldplay come on stage? Gates open at approximately 5pm, while the music will kick off at 6.15pm, with Shone as the opening act. They'll be followed by Emmanuel Kelly at 6.45pm and Ayra Starr at 7.30pm. Coldplay are set to take to the stage at 8.45pm. What can I bring to the Coldplay Melbourne show? There are specific rules for what you can and can’t bring to Coldplay’s Music of