Winnie Stubbs

There’s a lot going on in the Harbour City this weekend, so we’ll lay out the perfect itinerary, and you can take and leave what you like.Kick off the weekend with a (free) sunset set by experimental electronic artist E Fishpool at Sydney’s beautiful, historic observatory, then head for dinner at one of the best restaurants in the city (if you’re celebrating your love, our guide to Valentines Day in Sydney should help). Kick on into the small hours at one of Sydney’s best late-night spots, hit the dancefloor, or head home so you’re up in time to tackle one of the city’s best running routes before the heat sets in. Start your Saturday right with one of the best breakfasts in town, then pick up a picnic from one of Sydney’s best markets and set up camp at one of the city’s beautiful beaches. Keen to get moving? Take on the Spit to Manly walk, then treat yourself with a free (!) Ferrero Rocher frozen dessert from the pop-up treat stall outside Manly Wharf (running all weekend long from 11am until 6pm). Once you’ve had your sunshine fix, jump on the ferry over to Cockatoo Island for a live performance by multi-instrumentalist and producer Nikodimos as the sun sets behind the bridge. For a special Sunday, start with a swim at one of these magical swimming spots, book a summery lunch at one of our favourite waterfront restaurants, then catch a super intimate live performance in a secret room in the Opera House.Keen to get out of town? These are our favourite day trips you can take

We might be a little biased, but in our humble opinion, Sydney's got it all. Can you think of many other cities in the world that rival its natural beauty, rich heritage and history that dates back thousands of years, and its creative, culinary and cultural offerings by world-class pros. In fact, there's so much to see, do, sip and ponder here, you could be forgiven for feeling a little overwhelmed. Worry not, dear reader – we're making it simple for you. Our team (including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure and our Sydney Editor Alice Ellis) sifted through every good time the Big Smoke has to offer and put together a Sydney bucket list for the ages. The activities we've chosen will give you a super varied experience of the city – everything from the tourist attractions that are actually worth your time to secret swimming spots that locals know and love.Whether you're a new arrival or a born-and-bred local, this 2025 Time Out Sydney round-up of the city's must-do activities will help you experience Sydney from every angle. After all those great activities you're bound to be thirsty. We suggest you head to one of the best pubs in Sydney right now.  Need somewhere to stay? Check in to one of Sydney's best hotels or Airbnbs. 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.

The day of inflated flower prices, oversized plushies and high expectations is almost upon us. However you may feel about Valentine's Day (Hollywood-esque love, deep, anti-capitalist contempt, cold apathy), know that there are plenty of ways you can authentically celebrate love in Sydney right now – whether that's the love you have for your date, a mate, or your own fine self. From singles to coupled-up sweethearts, there’s something delightful for everyone to do in Sydney on February 14 (which falls on a Friday this year), as well as in the lead-up to and fall-out after the big day. Read on for our guide to the best fun (and free) outings, the best first-date bars and sexiest new spots to celebrate romance in all its forms in the Emerald City. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:Want fun now? Here’s what’s on in Sydney this weekend.And here’s our guide to things to do this February.

Sydney is often referred to as the Harbour City, but a better name might be the Town of a Hundred Beaches. There are countless golden stretches scattered along the length and breadth of Sydney’s many shores (exact figures vary based on who you ask, as some disappear with the tides or are all but impossible to reach). But such an array of sandy riches can make picking the right beach to visit a bit of a head-scratcher. To help you out, we’ve cast our discerning eyes across pretty much every beach in the city, awarding points for accessibility, natural beauty, range of facilities and unique charms. We’ve tallied the results, tabulated the scores and can now reveal our definitive rankings of the 47 best beaches in Sydney. Grab those beach towels and dive right in. JUST REMEMBER: There have been a lot of drowning incidents at NSW beaches recently – if you swim at unpatrolled beaches, you put yourself at risk. You can search patrolled and unpatrolled beaches near you over here – as well as other surf safety issues. Hate crowds? Here's our guide to the best secret beaches in Sydney. The city also has a heap of fab harbour beaches – as well as dog-friendly beaches. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, straight to your inbox.

We’ve picked out our favourite Sydney florists and flower shops that always deliver when it comes to beautiful bunches of blooms, from dramatic and sculptural arrangements to pretty posies and vibrant native bouquets. 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. When you can't hand over the bouquet in person, you can rely on the best flower delivery services in Sydney.

When it comes to showing that you care, flowers are a pretty safe bet. Thankfully, Sydney is home to fantastic florists willing to deliver the goods – often at just a day's notice, and some even with same-day delivery. From locally sourced flowers to customisable arrangements, our top list has everything you need to make sure you are prepped for the special day. Our team of flower-afficianados have put Sydney's flower delivery services to the test – these are our favourites.  Want to really win that heart? Here are Sydney's best date spots for a perfectly romantic occasions. 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. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

Sure, Sydney’s hella exxy, but if you look hard enough, you’ll find some cheap as chips things to do that won’t leave a big hole in your bank balance. 1. Climb some boulders harness free (don't worry, the padded floors promise a soft landing) at 9 Degrees in Alexandria. For just $25 you can nab a casual climb. $25  2. See a free gig at Phoenix Central Park. Even more intriguing than the impressive architectural design of this performance space, is the ticketing system. There is no monetary exchange required for the cutting-edge acts, you just need to enter a ballot and become one of the lucky winners. Free 3. Go for a dip at the heritage-listed Wylie’s Baths that sit below the Coogee coastal walkway. $6  4. Get moving with parkrun – a community-run 5-kilometre jog that takes place every Saturday morning at locations around the city. Free 5. Slurp down some epic noodle soup. We've rounded up our favourite bowls from around Sydney, here. From $15   6. Get a hit of the good feels that come with volunteering, by pitching in at Pocket City Farms for their Thursday and Saturday morning volunteering. $0  7. LOL all night long at the Running Joke on Level One of the Potts Point Hotel every Tuesday night. From $19 8. See the beaches on two wheels with a Cruiser Bike from Manly Bike Tours. $22 for an hour 9. Catch a $10 Sunday morning movie at Hoyts. At Hoyts cineams across the city (you'll find outposts at the Entertainment Quarter, Blacktown, Chatswood and beyond) you can score a mo

Even though I am sweaty, summer is my favourite time of year. I hope you’re also loving after-work swims, barefoot barbecues and Spritzes with friends. It’s also an excellent time to eat and drink well. The year has started with a bang, and there are a lot of new openings I am excited about, including a fire-powered Mediterranean diner from the Bar Copains team called Bessie’s, a luxe seafood and steak grill from The Bentley Boys named Eleven Barrack (guess the address!), and Cibaria, a gorgeous new all-day Italian restaurant right on Manly's beachfront. Below, you’ll find Sydney’s best new restaurants. Hungry? I am too. Let’s dig in. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for something to wash it all down with? These are our favourite bars in Sydney right now. Keen to eat your way around the city? These are the best restaurants in Sydney, from hot newcomers to the OGs.

Sydney loves any chance for a spectator-sport party, so watching the (star-studded) NFL championship game, the Super Bowl, has well and truly become a thing in the Harbour City. That means plenty of venues and sports bars across the city air the game on the big screen, and throw Super Bowl parties with all the trimmings (read: Americana food and a whole lot of beer). What is the Superbowl start time in Sydney? You can watch kick-off from 10.30am (AEDT) on Monday, February 10. That means beer buckets and wings for breakfast – we don’t make the rules.  Who’s performing at the Super Bowl 2025? Along with the big-budget ads screened during the breaks, the Super Bowl half-time show is half of the reason for watching, and this year’s show will feature some of the biggest names in music: Kendrick Lamar and SZA (who collectively picked up six Grammys at this year’s awards).  What time is the Superbowl half-time show?  If you're just in it for the musical performance, tune in at midday Sydney time.   What channel is the Super Bowl on in Australia? The Super Bowl 2025 will be broadcast on free-to-air TV on Channel 7 and 7mate (as well as live streaming on 7plus if you're watching online). For subscribers, it will also show on Kayo and the ESPN channel on Foxtel. If you’re keen to get amongst it, we've rounded up the best Sydney venues that are playing the game live and loud this year.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and

In case you missed it, Valentine’s Day is coming up (this Friday, February 14), and the Harbour City is celebrating with a heap of love-themed events popping up in the lead up to (and following) the big day. If you want to ignore the occasion entirely, that won’t be difficult to do either; with an incredible line-up of theatre and a series of immersive exhibitions live around town for an escape from reality. If you’re keen to spend your leisure time learning, check out the Antenna Documentary Film Fest program: it might be your only chance to see some of these boundary-pushing movies.Keen to make the most of your days this week? We’d suggest starting with a swim at one of the city’s best outdoor pools or secret swimming spots, saving on lunch with one of these excellent cheap eats, then rounding out the day with a drink at one of the best rooftop bars in Sydney before catching a movie under the stars at one of the city’s magical outdoor cinemas. Need to cool off? These are our tips for beating the heat in Sydney, and these are our favourite ice cream scoops in town.Keen to keep moving? These are the best running routes in Sydney, and these are the city’s best gyms if you’d rather work out in air-con. Scroll on for our full list of the best things to do in Sydney this week. Mapping out your weekend? These are the best things to do in Sydney this weekend. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, straight to your inbox.

I love dates. I love feeling excited for one, I love going on them, and I love the post-date debrief with my friends. Of course, the most important part of a date is, well, your actual date – and whether there’s a spark – but I reckon it’s also pretty important to nail the venue, as it sets the foundation for a fun night out. In my job, I eat out a lot, and I’ve also gone on my fair share of dates (some amazing, some lacklustre), so I know what makes a great date night spot. You’re looking for a place that’s cosy and intimate, one that has a good vibe and moody lighting. Delicious drinks and food are important, as is a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. From classy cocktail bars to sexy wine haunts and candlelit restaurants, I’ve rounded up my favourite places in Sydney for a date. Whether you're celebrating your anniversary, looking for a place for Valentine's Day, or just getting out for date night, below you’ll find the most romantic spots in Sydney to celebrate your love. Call me Cupid. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Want to take the pressure off? Here are our top first date spots. Wooing on a shoestring? These are the best cheap eats in Sydney.

If there's one thing that Australia does right, it's really beautiful beaches – and a lot of them, to be precise. With a whopping 12,000 fringing our island continent, it would take you a wild 32 years to see them all – if you tackled one beach per day. Assuming that your 32-year plan doesn't singularly involve beach hopping around Australia (although, we can of course, dream), we've put together a list of the best and prettiest beaches in Australia that you should visit this year – or at least once in your life. Each beach on this list has been selected for its remarkable beauty, safe swimming conditioning (read: you won't see anywhere with saltwater crocs on this list), and proximity to other incredible activities, so your adventure out doesn't end with just one dip. Some of these picks have been richly awarded in the past, while others are less mainstream – but rest easy knowing that every single one of them is well worth their salt, in more ways than one. Now, all that's left is for you to find out for yourself. 🌊 The best nudist beaches in Australia🏄 Australia's top surf beaches🌈 All the best places to visit in Australia

In the mood for a street party? We’ve got good news. City of Sydney’s street party series – aptly named Sydney Streets – is back for 2025, with festival-style street parties popping up across the city for six Saturdays this summer and autumn. Designed to celebrate the local community, Sydney Streets is taking over high streets across the city over the next few months, with the first one transforming Potts Point’s Macleay Street on Saturday, February 15. Kicking off at 11am and running into the night, the events will see the host streets closed to traffic – making space for outdoor dining, roving entertainment and live performance. Following a smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country facilitated by traditional custodians of the land, activities at the various events will range from origami workshops to dog agility, with each event specific to its suburb. Local businesses will be hosting pop-up stalls, with the neighbouring restaurants and shops included in the action. Although the specific businesses and events will vary, Sydneysiders can expect family-friendly fun and music into the night across the board. After the Macleay Street event on Saturday, February 15, Sydney Streets will take over Darlinghurst’s bustling Stanley Street on Saturday, February 22, Harris Street in Pyrmont on March 8, Glebe Point Road on Saturday, March 15, Redfern Street on Saturday, March 29 and Crown Street in Surry Hills on Saturday, April 5. Keen? You can learn more over here.  Stay in the loop: si

Golden hour in Sydney is a magical time – when the glare of the day fades and the dropping sun coats the city in a buttery glow. And there’s one particular spot in Sydney that seems to catch the light perfectly – a failsafe sunset spot with views across the Harbour, and one of the best places to stargaze when daylight disappears entirely. We’re talking about Sydney Observatory, and for the next five Fridays, golden hour here is going to the next level – elevated by a series of (free-to-attend) live performances programmed by the creative people behind Powerhouse.Sunset Variations will kick off this evening (Friday, January 31) with a performance by the ridiculously multi-talented artist, composer and producer xmunashe. Tonight only, there will also be 500 scoops of free gelato on offer from the good people at Messina – first in, best dressed, so get there when doors open at 5pm.Next up, on Friday, February 7, ambient instrumental duo Wilson Tanner (Andras and Eleventeen Eston) will soundtrack sunset with a mesmeric three-hour set.  On the day of love (February 14), experimental electronic artist e fishpool will set the tone as the light disappears from the sky above the Harbour City. Friday, February 21 will welcome the spellbinding Maryam Rahmani to the Observatory, and the series will come to a close with a powerful three-hour set from the magnificent force that is RONA. Remarkably, the event series is entirely free – though you’ll need to RSVP to secure your spot. Inside t

There are a select few career paths that live eternally rent-free on every 20-something Sydneysiders’ “one day” bucket list. Jewellery designer is undeniably one of them – there’s something powerful about the idea of creating, from elemental ingredients, something that will quickly become infinitely more valuable than the sum of its parts. If a full career change isn’t on the cards just yet, dipping in for a one-off jewellery making workshop might have to suffice – and we’ve found the perfect one. Hosted by Northern Beaches designer and jeweller Matt Candrick, The Fifth Lane ring-making workshops are an ideal intro course into the craft. During a three hour session, you’ll be guided through the process of ring-making and let loose with some power tools (does a handheld blow torch count as a power tool? I’m happy to go on record and say yes). Each guest will leave with two handcrafted silver or gold rings – super personal pieces that are water, sweat and rust-proof, and unique to you.  When I visited back in December, I set the gold standard for needy apprentices – falling at every minor hurdle and taking twice as long as any other guest at every (relatively simple) stage. Regardless, Matt remained totally unphased – a laid-back, calmly supportive teacher who (figuratively) held my hand until my two shiny silver rings were perfectly formed and ready to wear. If you’re unsure about your ability to tackle practical tasks (consider that my confession), this is the jewellery works

Back for its thirteenth year, Australia’s biggest non-fiction film fest is coming to the Harbour City this February – bringing a 50-strong program of incredible documentaries to big screens across Sydney for ten horizon-expanding days.This year’s Antenna fest kicks off on Thursday, February 6, with a carefully selected program of films screening every night until Sunday, February 16. Opening night will welcome the Australian premiere of Reas, a documentary-musical hybrid following cis and trans women reenacting their incarceration experiences through music and performance. According to Festival Director Dudi Rokach, it’s these kinds of boundary-pushing, reality-expanding films that form the backbone of the program, with Rokach describing every feature as “imaginative, cinematic, and provocative.” Other highlights of this year’s program include About A Hero, a scarily futuristic film based on an AI-generated script, Union, a Sundance-winning documentary following a group of Amazon workers as they take on their employer, and Look Into My Eyes, a film documenting a group of NYC-based psychics (directed by Lana Wilson, the filmmaker behind Taylor Swift: Miss Americana). Among the 50 films on the program, 12 are Australian-made shorts, and three are feature-length Aussie documentaries. Films will be screened at Dendy Newtown and the Ritz in Randwick. Tickets start at $25 for a one-time adult pass – you can check out the program and book tickets over here. Stay in the loop: sign up

It’s time to clear your calendar and prepare your body for one helluva gig crawl, because Great Southern Nights is back in action. This means that some 300 gigs are taking over more than 120 live music venues across New South Wales, with a spotlight on major and emerging Aussie artists. This year’s eclectic line-up features Missy Higgins, Lime Cordiale, Budjerah, King Stingray and Mallrat, just to name a few. Other headliners include Winston Surfshirt, Marcia Hines, The Paper Kites, Hoodoo Gurus, Thirsty Merc and Birds of Tokyo.  Here in Sydney, shows will pop up across legendary live music venues as well as more intimate bars and restaurants – with joints like The Lansdowne, Machine Hall, PS40 and Jacksons on George getting amongst the fun. Outside of the big smoke, there are gigs set to take place in Tamworth, Broken Hill, Orange, Newcastle, Woollongong and Byron Bay, to name a few road-trip-worthy locations.  As well as forming part of the government’s plan to amp up Sydney’s nightlife, Great Southern Nights aims to bring a boost to the state’s regional towns, with major names like Sons of the East, The Cat Empire and Ziggy Alberts popping up in small towns across the state. With shows like Bec Sandridge, Boo Seeka and Missy Higgins already sold out, fans are encouraged to secure tickets soon, before they miss out. The series will be brought to life by Destination NSW in partnership with the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA).“Great Southern Nights is about f

Budget conscious movie fans, this one’s for you. For the third year running, Darling Quarter’s free open-air cinema is back – this time with dog-friendly seating and high-quality headphones for crystal-clear audio.Kicking off this Thursday, January 9, the free open-air cinema will run until Sunday, January 26, with the varied film program featuring big releases and old-school favourites.  First cab off the rank is a screening of the magical new Wonka featuring Timothée Chalamet, followed by a hot pink spectacular with a screening of Barbie on Friday, January 10. Other movies on this year’s program include Miss Congeniality, Happy Feet 2 and Wonder Woman. Potterheads can also get their fix at a series of Harry Potter marathons taking place over the weekends. Though screenings are free, it’s worth booking a place – with free unallocated seating and beanbags available to hire for an extra $10. This year’s movie experience sees the upgrade of all new headphones, meaning you don’t have to worry about the ambience of the area impacting your audio experience (though sound will be played through large outdoor speakers too). For a cinema snack, moviegoers can order Click and Collect from some of Darling Quarter’s fave eateries – including Churrascaria, Noodle Face and Gelatissimo.  With a flat evening parking rate of $20 per car, this is hands down one of the most affordable cinema experiences you can have in the Harbour City. Keen to spend those extra dollars on another movie-style e

You’re morally obliged to swim in the ocean before lunch at Amalfi. It’s implied in the name, and insisted upon through the menu – Italian-inspired plates that taste best after an hour or so spent between the sand and the sea. The bright, light-flooded restaurant, just steps from Bondi Beach, is designed to be enjoyed in holiday mode – arrive with salty hair and leave with a full belly and a Limoncello buzz. Occupying a glass-fronted space a three-minute walk from the ocean, the spacious new restaurant exists in a bubble of stillness – wide windows opening up onto a quiet residential street. White chairs and benches are scattered with yellow cushions – a colour theme that’s carried throughout by a striped accent wall above the well-stocked bar, and paper straws popping out of goblets of Limoncello spritz. Slim Aarons photographs and shots of the Amalfi Coast line the walls, and terrazzo-style tables are illuminated by big hanging lights. Like the aesthetic, the menu here is an ode to the Italian coastline: fresh, joyously salty antipasti (we’d recommend the oysters and the anchovy bruschetta) and bowls of rich, garlic-loaded pasta. Come here with the whole family, and you’ll find something for everyone – with crowd-pleasers like calamari fritti and butterflied king prawns, a super-affordable "bambini" menu and a good range of gluten-free and vego options. It’s a menu that doesn’t take itself too seriously, with a major focus on maximum flavour – tuna tartare arrives doused in

Cinephiles, this one’s for you. Flickerfest – Australia’s biggest short film competition – is back for 2025, taking over Bondi Pavilion with more than 200 short film screenings across a glittering ten-day program. Known for spotlighting some of the country’s best-received short films – with a heap of Academy® and BAFTA winners among its alumni – Flickerfest is returning for its 34th year, with films screening by the beach from January 17 until January 26, 2025.  This year, the carefully selected curation of short films were chosen from a pool of more than 3,400 entries, with the official selection including 63 Australian films, 36 international films, and 15 documentaries. Audiences can expect to see 37 world premieres, 46 Australian premieres, and 5 NSW premieres, with most of the films in the running for a series of awards, including Flickerfest Award for Best International Short Film, the Yoram Gross Award for Best International Animation, the Panasonic Lumix Award for Best Australian Short Film, and the Flickerfest Award for Best Documentary.  As well as the shortlisted films, the program features a celebration of young Aussie filmmakers (FlickerUp), a showcase of LGBTQI cinema (Rainbow Shorts), a series of films about relationships (Love Bites) and exploring films about relationships, Short Laughs (a comedy series) and FlickerKids: a special program of kids and family-friendly films. After the Bondi-based festival, Flickerfest will go on tour – taking selected films to m

Before jumping on the pans at Percy – Pyrmont’s new Spanish-inspired wine bar – chef Rosy Scatigna spent days on end exploring the pintxos bars of San Sebastian: “tasting fresh flavours and feeling that electric buzz of people enjoying their dining experience, sharing good food and wine.” As many people (including our very own Food and Drink Editor Avril Treasure) do, Scatigna fell in love with the Basque approach to dining, which she describes as “cool, casual and absolutely delicious”.It’s these pillars that guide the approach at Percy – the charmingly unpretentious but deftly executed wine bar hidden in a heritage-listed building in an unassuming corner of the city. Enter into the lobby, and you’ll be met by a busy warmth that’s immediately reminiscent of Spain’s intimate drinking caves. High ceilings are supported by thick wooden beams that stretch up from the stone floor, and deep red walls are lined with bottles of (mainly Spanish) wine. The location – housed within the Hotel Woolstore 1888 in Pyrmont – means you get a hotel bar and tapas bar experience in one. Get cosy on one of the statement sofas dotted throughout the lobby for a pre-dinner drink, then make your way into a table in the restaurant – each illuminated by wine bottle candlesticks. With Basque country pintxos bars as its inspiration, the menu focuses on easy-to-eat, flavour-forward sharing plates, brought to life with a sense of un-fussy fun. With creative direction from the bar’s executive chef Eli Lozad

When you’re thinking of spots to spend a sunny day in Sydney, South Eveleigh isn’t generally number one on the list. This summer, the people behind the precinct’s family-friendly activations (they hosted a whole heap of science-focused fun during the winter months, and their previous street parties have been off the charts) are hoping to change that – with South Eveleigh’s Summer Club bringing big beach energy to the city’s Inner East.  From Monday, December 2, the precinct will transform into an immersive urban summer club, complete with daily giveaways and visits from a very summery Santa. Every day from Monday, December 2 until Sunday, December 15, the Mini Kiosk will be giving away seasonal sweet treats – everything from fresh coconuts to mini pavlovas – and the first 130 customers to spend more than $10 at any retailer in the precinct will score a free summer accessory (choose from caps, tote bags and towels) from the Summer Club Kiosk. Visitors to the area can also join volleyball games, test their surfing skills on the mechanical wave rider,  hit the foam pool or kick back in the chill zone beneath an umbrella. If you’re keen to see the big man himself, Santa will be hitting the (mechanical) surf on Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays – available to snap Christmassy pics and take note of your present requests. The precinct will also be home to a “Sandy Clause Photo Booth” for your team and family festive shots, and throughout the two week program entertainment will be pro

If your algorithm is anything like mine, your current feed likely features a seemingly disproportionate number of selfie-style clips of influencers getting a head massage. If you’re wondering who’s responsible, I’m here to fill you in. Tokyo Headspa first popped up in Bondi Junction’s new beauty precinct – Salon Lane – back in June of this year, after making its Sydney debut in St Leonards in November 2022. Since opening, the Japanese-style head spa has gone from strength to heavily-Instagrammed strength. After being fed content about Sydney’s new wellness “must” for weeks, I decided it was time to try out the experience for myself, and I have to admit – it was pretty damn dreamy. My therapist met me at the entrance to Salon Lane after a busy day at work and a hectic cycle through the city, and her presence alone made my shoulders drop. Chisato – who worked as a physiotherapist in Japan before relocating to Sydney – has a divinely calming aura, and a truly masterful touch. I’d booked in for Tokyo Headspa’s 'Dream Labs' treatment – a new treatment designed to dramatically improve sleep by regulating the autonomic nervous system and helping you drop into a deep sense of calm. Reclined back on the ridiculously comfy chair, surrounded by curtains illuminated by projections of a slowly-moving solar system and soundtracked by an ethereal soundscape, the seventy minutes slipped past in a surreal, transcendent blur. Using the super-luxe Oribe lotion that I’d chosen as my favourite (y

If you've ever dreamed of running off with the circus, this one’s for you. After a record-setting season in Brisbane that saw more than 120,000 tickets sold, Cirque du Soleil’s spectacular new show has landed in Sydney for its final Aussie encore. It's already got a big thumbs up from none other than Robert Irwin, who described it as “just next level”, and now the wildly impressive Luzia is pitching up under the Big Top at the Entertainment Quarter until February 9, before it ships off to New York City.Originated some 40 years ago in Canada, Cirque du Soleil is the world-leader of live circus – and as with every Big Top show they roll out, Luzia features ridiculously impressive acrobatics and stunning visual effects, with this particular show transporting spectators to a vibrant and surreal Mexico-inspired setting. Morphing from a vintage movie set to the aquatic depths of the ocean, and from a hazy dance hall into an arid desert, the stage brings Mexican landscapes (and seascapes, and atmospheric indoor settings) to life through an immersive, spellbinding show. The poetic narrative of Luzia was crafted by playwright Julie Hamelin Finzi, and the transporting story is brought to life under the direction of author, director, choreographer, lighting designer and actor Daniele Finzi Pasca. On the acrobatics front, you can expect trapeze artists, hoop divers, football freestylers and contortionists to defy the laws of gravity – all set within a magical dreamlike setting complete w

After a few weeks of relatively regular programming, Sydney’s rail workers are taking industrial action again – meaning trains across the city will be delayed, disrupted and cancelled from today. By 9am this morning (Friday, February 14), more than 400 services had already been cancelled, and it’s not likely to get better any time soon. (Hope you weren't planning to train it to a Valentine's Day date.) The disruption comes as the Rail and Tram Bus Union (RTBU) have come to another standstill in their negotiations with the NSW government – with rail workers deliberately running trains more than 20-kilometres-per-hour slower than usual in an act of defiance. When the government stated they wouldn’t be paying participating drivers, the RTBU encouraged rail workers to stay home instead of coming in to work today.  So far, today’s industrial action has impacted most lines in the Greater Sydney area, including the Blue Mountains and South Coast lines – so if you were planning a trip for Valentine’s weekend, you might want to take a car. While most lines are experiencing significant delays, the South Coast Line has halted entirely – with buses operating between Wollongong and Kiama and Kiama and Bomaderry. Is the Sydney Metro running? The Sydney Metro is still running, but as with buses, it's expected to be more packed than usual. At this point, Transport for NSW is encouraging Sydneysiders to “delay non-essential travel”, explaining that although their teams are “working hard to re

We wholeheartedly believe that Melbourne is one of the best cities in the world – but we'll acknowledge that there's no doubt we're biased. That's why it's always wonderful when it turns out that other people feel the same way about this city as we do.  Earlier this year, Time Out surveyed thousands of readers to determine its global list of the world’s best cities and our city was crowned as the fourth best worldwide – so there's plenty of people who are on our wavelength about Melbourne being top-notch. Now, we’ve got a new title to share – consultancy firm Resonance has released its annual list of the best cities in the Asia Pacific region, and Melbourne has ranked in the top ten. Resonance's rankings of Asia Pacific's best cities assess more than 140 metropolitan areas, which qualify by having a population of more than one million people. To determine which cities should rank among the best, the team at Resonance analyse a number of factors – from air quality to prosperity – as well as recommendations by locals and visitors. They then use their findings to rate the "liveability" and "loveability" of a city, to order their final rankings.  Melbourne ranked in ninth place overall, scoring shout-outs for its impressive sights and landmarks, including the graffiti-splattered Hosier Lane and colourful Brighton Bathing Boxes. The Victorian capital’s easy access to 21 world-class wine regions, like the Yarra Valley and the Mornington Peninsula, and major sporting events, like th

It’s 2025, and in case you missed it – camping is in. Thankfully for Sydneysiders, there are some incredible camping (and glamping) sites right on our doorstep – from a magical safari experience in the city’s most famous zoo to an incredible site on an island in the middle of the harbour. If being coastal is at the top of your camp site tick list, we’re here to help. We spoke with CEO of Reflections Holidays, Nick Baker, for his top picks of the best coastal camping sites in NSW. Naturally, a fair few of them are Reflections parks, but (brand names aside) they all fit the brief: affordable, accessible, beautiful camping sites just steps away from the sand. **** Where to find the best beachfront camping in NSW Byron Bay Byron Bay is just the spot for a laid-back beach getaway, and Reflections Byron Bay is where you want to be. Just a short stroll from Byron’s iconic Clarkes Beach, this campground gives you the perfect balance of beach vibes and town access. Wake up to ocean views, then grab your board and hit the surf at the Pass or head into town for the best cafés, local markets, and boutique shopping. Whether you’re roughing it in a tent or opting for a cabin, the park’s beachfront location is an unbeatable base for exploring all that Byron has to offer. Photograph: Supplied | Reflections Holidays Honeymoon Bay Looking for something a bit more secluded? Honeymoon Bay Beach Campground, located in Jervis Bay National Park, is a beautiful spot where you can camp right next

In case you missed it, Drake is Down Under. The divisive star has had a big few months, to say the least – but we know when that hotline bling, it can only mean one thing. And this summer, you better believe it will be blinging – with Drake bringing his Anita Max Win Tour to Sydney for a series of five (5!) shows. Here’s everything you need to know before you go. When is the Drake Anita Max Win Tour in Sydney? Drake launched the news of his Sydney tour with just two dates, and has gone on to add an additional three shows – meaning he’ll be performing a total of five shows in the Harbour City. Drake’s Sydney stint will kick off on Sunday, February 16, with shows on Monday, February 17, Wednesday, February 19, Thursday, February 20 and Friday, March 7. How to get to the Drake 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 car park at the end of the night, so public transport is often the best option for getting to Qudos Bank Arena. Olympic Park Station is less than a ten-minute walk from the stadium, and hundreds of additional trains and buses will run to and back from Olympic Park during the concerts – you’ll find more info here. What time will Drake come on stage in Sydney? Gates at the Qudos Bank Arena will open at 6pm. The ticketed start time for Drake’s Sydney shows is 8pm, with Champagne Papi himself likely to take to the stage at around 9pm. The set is expected to run for a

It’s a happy day when the world acknowledges just how incredible it is to live in Australia. That day happened not too long ago when for the very first time, four Aussie cities ranked among the world’s 50 best in Time Out’s global annual survey. And the good days just keep coming, with Resonance Consulting having just released its very own list of the 100 best cities in the Asia Pacific region, which sees not four, but five Australian capitals cracking the top 30. To determine which cities should rank among the 100 best, the team at Resonance analyse a number of factors – from air quality and prosperity to landmarks and nightlife. Their findings shape two key scores: ‘liveability’ and ‘lovability,’ which together determine each city's overall ranking. Two Australian cities secured spots in the top ten of the 2025 rankings, with Sydney coming in a very impressive seventh place. Boasting the second-best air quality in the whole of Asia Pacific, Sydney also ranked as the fifth most ‘liveable’ city in Asia Pacific for 2025, and the seventh highest on the ‘lovability’ scale. Other points contributing to the Harbour City’s high score include the recent revitalisation of Sydney's CBD and the focus by the NSW government on improving the city’s nighttime economy, with Resonance citing the city's  “24-Hour Economy Strategy” as a key factor in securing it seventh place on the list. Sydney’s recently expanded Art Gallery of New South Wales also got a mention, with the award-winning Sydne

Update Wednesday, February 12: The intrigue around Drake's second Melbourne concert was at an all-time high off the back of *that* Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl halftime show, plus his huge cash giveaway on night one. He may not have directly addressed the diss, but he did splash the cash again, offloading $50,000 to two lucky groups of fans. Here's hoping there's some money left in the kitty for the remaining two shows.  When is Drake's Anita Max Win Tour in Melbourne? Due to huge demand – turns out there's a lotta Drake fans here in Melbourne – the superstar rapper will be performing a total of four shows. Drake will kick things off with a bang at Rod Laver Arena on Sunday, February 9, with three more shows on February 10, 12 and 13. How to get to the Drake concert in Melbourne Public transport is considered the quickest and easiest option. You can walk from Flinders Street Station (it's a ten-minute stroll via Birrarung Marr or the Tanderrum Bridge) or from Richmond Station or Jolimont Station. Tram 70, 48 and 75 also all have stops near Rod Laver Arena. Be sure to allow plenty of extra travel time in case of a disruption. There is parking available at the Eastern Plaza Car Park (Entrance D, Olympic Boulevard), and it's highly recommended that you pre-book your spot. Bookings close at midnight the night before the event. What time will Drake come on stage in Melbourne? Gates will open at 6.30pm, and the Rod Laver Arena website has stated the support act will come on at 8pm fol

We’ve all got our opinions on where Sydney stands as a city: with some people (yours truly) proclaiming this city to be undoubtedly the best in the world, and others taking a more critical lens. Earlier this year, Time Out released its global list of the world’s best cities, and the Harbour City ranked in 15th place. Now, we’ve got a new title to share – consultancy firm Resonance has released its annual list of the best cities in the Asia Pacific region, and the Harbour City has ranked in seventh place. Back in November, Resonance released its list of the best cities in the world for 2025, with Sydney coming in an impressive tenth place overall. The Harbour City’s stunning landmarks, excellent air quality and high liveability are some of the factors that gained it such a high score on the global index, and these factors (among others) helped Sydney rank as the Asia Pacific region’s seventh best city for 2025.  To determine which cities should rank among the best, the team at Resonance analyse a number of factors – from air quality to prosperity – and use their findings to rate the "liveability" and "loveability" of a city. With the second-best air quality in the whole of Asia Pacific, Sydney has ranked as the fifth most “liveable” city in Asia Pacific for 2025, and in seventh place on the "loveability" scale. Other points contributing to the Harbour City’s high score include the recent revitalisation of Sydney's CBD and the focus by the NSW government on improving the city’s

Even if you don’t think you’ve heard of Hans Zimmer, you’ll have heard from Hans Zimmer. The legendary composer is the mastermind behind some of the most memorable and beloved movie soundtracks of all time, including Interstellar, Inception and The Lion King. And in excellent news for music fans, he's bringing his musical magic to Australia for a national tour. Backed by a spectacular live orchestra, the five-time Grammy Award winner will be performing live in Sydney later this year. Keen? Find out everything you need to know about the upcoming Hans Zimmer 2025 Australian tour, including ticket info, below.  When is Hans Zimmer going on his Sydney, Australia tour in 2025? Hans Zimmer will play two huge Sydney shows as part of his 2025 tour of Australia. He will perform at the Qudos Bank Arena on Saturday, April 26 and Sunday, April 27 2025. When do Hans Zimmer Sydney tickets go on sale? General sale tickets are available from 12pm on Wednesday, February 12 – you can score yours here. According to Frontier Touring, all dates for this tour have been announced, and the presale allocation sold out in one day due to overwhelming demand. So basically, get in quick!   How much do Hans Zimmer tickets cost? The most affordable D reserve tickets start from $119 and prices go all the way up to $259 for A reserve aisle seating. For mega fans, there is also a range of VIP packages, starting from $449. What are the dates for Hans Zimmer's 2025 Australian tour? Zimmer will touch down in Bri

There’s nothing more romantic than going for a leisurely stroll with your lover, maybe holding hands and stopping for a picnic at the end. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, the good people from hiking company AllTrails has put together a list of the ten most romantic hikes in Australia. Think: dreamy routes tracing stunning coastlines and spectacular forests, with appropriately romantic names to match. Loves Bay to Gerringong via Kiama Coast Walk, NSW Photograph: Tim Clark This spectacular 10.9-kilometre coastal walk just south of Sydney will lead you and your lover along rolling green farmland with gorgeous coastal views. It’s a popular route – so you won’t have it to yourselves – but it’s so beloved for very good reasons. Make a weekend of it with a sleepover in Kiama – it was crowned the best tourism town in NSW in 2024, so it’s worth looking around to find out why. Saint Valentines Peak, TAS This popular yet challenging 8.7-kilometre trail sits just south of Burnie in northwestern Tasmania. Don’t dress to impress, as you’ll likely get a little muddy at the start. However, it’s worth it for panoramic summit views of Mount Roland, Cradle, Barn Bluff, Dial Ranges and beyond. Lovers Walk, NSW If you like the idea of leaving time for other V Day activities, this short but sweet 3.4-kilometre walking route just outside of Sydney is for you. Shaded by towering gum trees, the path is mostly wide and flat – making it an easy trail for beginner hikers. Leave time for a

Sydney is golden for a whole lot of reasons, but apparently, finding love is not one of them. We’re not here to break any hearts, but Time Out’s annual global survey has turned out some bad news – the Harbour City has ranked among the world’s ten worst places to find love. (Single and ready to mingle? We’ve also got the stats on the best cities for romance – just don’t expect to find any in Australia.) As part of the 2025 best cities survey, Time Out asked more than 18,500 city-dwellers about their dating life. Specifically, we wanted to know whether locals think finding love in their city is a battle or a breeze. Sydneysiders don’t have a particularly rosy outlook, with 29 per cent agreeing that dating in the Harbour City is difficult. This earned Sydney the unfortunate title of the ninth worst city in the world for finding love. At least that’s almost double the measly 14 per cent of locals in Bilbao, Spain, which ranked as the absolute worst city for romance. Things aren’t looking too sweet for Brisbane singles either, with Australia’s third-most populous city ranking as the seventh worst place for finding love (tying with London). Only 28 per cent of Brisbane locals said they think it’s easy to meet a soulmate, leaving the other 72 per cent navigating the dating scene with little luck. On the flip side, Mumbai topped the list as the world's best city for dating, with 72 per cent of locals saying it’s easy to couple up. Beijing followed in second, followed by Jakarta in th

February 14 is fast approaching, and Sydney is a pretty special place to be on the day of love – with romance-themed events popping up around the city, and a whole lot of incredible new restaurants opening up just in time for the big day. But if your Valentine is less into sitting down for a candle-lit dinner, more into setting out on a hike, we’re here to help. The good people from the hiking company AllTrails have put together a list of the six most romantic hikes in NSW. Think: dreamy routes tracing stunning coastlines and spectacular forests, with appropriately-romantic names to match.  Loves Bay to Gerringong via Kiama Coast Walk    Photograph: Supplied | AllTrails   Distance: 10.9 kilometres (2hr 44 mins)Drive time from Sydney: 1hr 53 minsThis spectacular coastal walk just south of Sydney will lead you and your lover along rolling green farmland with gorgeous coastal views. It’s a popular route – so you won’t have it to yourselves – but it’s so beloved for very good reasons. Make a weekend of it with a sleepover in Kiama – it was crowned the best tourism town in NSW in 2024, so it’s worth looking around to find out why. Lovers Walk  Photograph: Supplied | AllTrails Distance: 3.4 kilometres (50 minutes)   Drive time from Sydney: 51 minutes If you like the idea of leaving time for other V Day activities, this short but sweet walking route is for you. Shaded by towering gum trees, the path is mostly wide and flat – making it an easy trail for beginner hikers. Leave ti

It’s a well-known fact that NSW is home to some truly stunning stretches of sand – with 2024 seeing Bondi and Wategos ranking in Lonely Planet’s World’s Best Beaches guide, Manly ranking among the top ten beaches in the world according to Tripadvisor, and Mona Vale ranking as the sixth best beach in the world according to Conde Nast Traveller. Now, Tourism Australia has released their official guide to the best beaches in the country for 2025, and a quiet beach on the Coffs Coast has ranked at number two. It’s a big call made by Brad Farmer AM, Tourism Australia’s official beach ambassador, who annually assesses 130 key factors – from aesthetics and safety to history, facilities and weather – to decide the nation's best (and second-best) beaches. RECOMMENDED: Here's Time Out's guide to Sydney's very best beaches It’s not the first time a NSW gem scored the silver medal, with a gorgeous surfing beach just south of Sydney ranking in second place in Farmer’s 2024 list. And though this year’s highest ranking NSW spot is a little further from Sydney, it’s worth a visit on your next road-trip en-route to Byron or Port Macquarie. Woolgoolga (also known as Woopi) is a gorgeous long stretch of sand – with the nearby park and extensive stretches of shade making it the perfect place to set up camp on a summer day. The southern corner of Woopi’s wide and sweeping beach is patrolled seasonally, while the surrounding lagoons, waterways and headlands provide endless opportunities for snork