The Best Australian Cities To Visit In Summer

The quintessential Australian outback is a sight to behold. Australia’s golden beaches are among the best in the world. But it would be a big mistake to overlook this country’s urban credentials. Here, the top Australian city breaks to help your summer sizzle.

Melbourne | Geelong | Hobart | Brisbane | Adelaide | Newcastle | Sydney | Perth

Melbourne, Vic

Yep, Melbourne gets top billing. Not only is Victoria’s capital an absolute must on any list of city breaks – Australian or otherwise – but after a turbulent battle with COVID-19 and its varying restrictions, Melbourne needs and deserves our support. So, let’s go!

Hosier Lane Melbourn — Explore the street art of Melbourne on Hosier Lane.

For the vibrant culture and destination dining; for the gritty laneways and sun-soaked rooftop bars; for the endless shopping and crammed events calendar; for the absolute love of this world-class city brought to a devastating standstill in 2020.

Lune Croissanterie Melbourne — Line up at Lune Croissanterie for one of their world-famous pastries.

Geelong, Vic

With its pretty-as-a-picture waterfront precinct as your backdrop, Geelong is a summertime treat. While Victoria’s second-largest city, Geelong has long been seen as a handy launch pad for the magical Great Ocean Road and Bellarine Peninsula, it’s also worth exploring in its own right.

The Geelong foreshore is a main attraction.

Visit the waterfront and learn about Geelong’s rich history with a stroll along the famous Bollard Trail . The city’s creativity shines elsewhere, too – there is the Waterfront Art Trail, galleries and museums, Geelong Performing Arts Centre and Melbourne-esque street art. And you certainly won’t go hungry. Little Mallop Street in particular is a hub of great eats and trendy bars, while Geelong is also home to one of Little Creatures’ two breweries . Stay on the water at Novotel Geelong or for architectural wow points, try The Warehouse Geelong or Devlin Apartments .

Little Creatures Brewery Geelong — Little Creatures Brewery is the perfect spot for a craft brew and pub feed.

Hobart, Tas

A charming waterfront, a strong sense of history and abundant natural beauty are among Hobart’s hallmarks, while the city’s culinary scene is a delicious celebration of local produce.

Hobart Waterfront — The serene Hobart waterfront is a sight to behold. (Image: Tourism Tasmania/Kathryn-Leahy)

Fico , Dier Makr , Willing Bros Wine Merchants are a few faves, or find a spot to dine among the galleries, theatres and markets of Salamanca Place. Peacock and Jones is another gem, which you’ll find in the Henry Jones Art Hotel , a truly chic stay on the water.

Don’t miss the lively atmosphere at Salamanca Markets. (Image: Graham Freeman/Tourism Australia)

Fico Hobart — Fico is one of the many top-notch eateries to try in Hobart. (Image: Osborne Images)

Drink connoisseurs will be satiated by local craft beer and whisky. And what is a trip to Hobart without a visit to MONA? Love it or be perplexed by it, the Museum of Old and New Art is quirky at the very least.

Bed down at The Henry Jones Art Hotel in Hobart. (Image: The Henry Jones/Adam-Gibson)

Brisbane, Qld

Brisbane’s standing as a big country town is long gone. A hotel boom, burgeoning dining scene and growing events schedule has helped complete this coming of age story and now the River City is holding its own alongside the usual big-ticket capitals.

Walk down James Street in Brisbane. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)

Packed with cafes, restaurants, bars and event spaces, and alight with atmosphere, Brisbane’s new multi-million-dollar lifestyle precinct, Howard Smith Wharves , could deliver a magic itinerary on its own. Visit Felons Brewing Co., Mr Percival’s , Greca and Ciao Papi , and that’s just for starters.

Soak up the summer vibes at Felons Brewing Co.(Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)

Elsewhere, West End and Fortitude Valley are cultural hubs. Stay at The Calile, an Instagram-friendly subtropical oasis in the thick of Fortitude Valley, or one of the city’s two Ovolo hotels, Ovolo The Valley or Ovolo Inchcolm .

Mr Percival's on Howard Smith Wharves — Sip, relax and watch the sunset at Mr Percival’s on Howard Smith Wharves. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)

Adelaide, SA

The City of Churches isn’t as demure as the moniker might suggest, bursting with culture, flavour, world-class events, and an atmosphere that is only bolstered by those long summer days. Australia’s largest open-access arts festival, Adelaide Fringe (19 Feb – 21 March 2021), is a major summer drawcard while the Adelaide Central Market is a year-round attraction.

Tasting Australia Adelaide — Tasting Australia is just one of many world-class events to attend in Adelaide.

The city’s dining scene is hyped for a reason (put Osteria Oggi , Africola and Shobosho on your shortlist) and a visit to the beachside suburb of Glenelg is a must. You can also feel the sand between your toes at The Moseley Bar & Kitchen ’s Beach Club.

Feel the sand between your toes at The Moseley Bar & Kitchen’s Beach Club.

Newcastle, NSW

Newcastle has been steadily building its reputation as a serious big-city contender over the past decade or so. Just two hours from Sydney, the once working-class city is now home to smart cafes, pubs and bars, fantastic boutique shopping, and a vibrant creative scene, which has ‘cosmopolitan’ written all over it.

Newcastle streetscapes — Hit the pavement and explore the streetscapes of Newcastle. (Image: Destination NSW)

For all of the above, hit up the village vibes of the popular Darby Street precinct . Newcastle Memorial Walk along the clifftop is a beautiful spot to take in the summer rays. Continue enjoying those sweeping harbour views at Rydges Newcastle or set up in the thick of things at The Lucky Hotel.

Dine at Parry Street Garage in Newcastle West. (Image: Destination NSW)

Where to eat in Newcastle — Newcastle boasts a vibrant dining scene. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sydney, NSW

A sparkling diamond, or emerald as it were, Sydney is quite simply an impossible omission on such a list. Omission Impossible, you might say.

Noahs Bondi Backpackers — Bondi is one of a handful of uber trendy suburbs in Sydney’s east. (Image: Destination NSW)

The icons hardly need introducing, but here we go: Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, Royal Botanic Garden, Darling Harbour.

Dine at Newtown's Continental Deli. — Head to the Inner West to dine at Newtown’s Continental Deli. (Image: Destination NSW)

Head to the centre of town and you can tick most of these off, but you could also spend your break in the grungier Inner West, the picturesque Northern Beaches, the trendy Eastern Suburbs and be spoilt for choice when it comes to first-rate dining, culture and events.

Bondi Icebergs Pool — Swim at the iconic Bondi Icebergs pool. (Image: Destination NSW)

Perth, WA

As far as summer playgrounds go, it’s hard to beat the Western Australian capital. The sand and surf blend effortlessly with the city’s urban energy, where restaurants, bars and creative arts thrive.

Elizabeth Quay in Perth — Perth is the ultimate summer playground. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

As far as beaches go, Cottesloe is the star and The Cottesloe Beach Hotel will sort you out with a crisp summer schooner.

Island Market at Trigg Beach has summer written all over it and, in Fremantle, you’ll find it easy to settle in at Bathers Beach House .

Perth's vibrant nightlife. — Make the most of Perth’s vibrant nightlife. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Fremantle is also a must: in addition to being packed with history, it’s a hub for eateries and bars. And don’t miss Kings Park and its splendid views. From Perth, both Rottnest Island and Swan Valley make for fab day trips.

Visit our Reclaim Summer hub for more ways to experience the best of summer.

It’s time to #ReclaimSummer, time to be better travellers, and time to find our joy again; share your summer with us by using the hashtag and tagging @AustTraveller on Instagram or Facebook .

Those dreaming of a river escape that’s less rush and more rest will discover the perfect getaway in Echuca Moama.

Best known for summer river holidays, Echuca Moama dishes up extraordinary options for those craving good food, experiences and culture. Discover how best to spend your getaway in this gorgeous river town.

1. Find unique stays in Echuca Moama

Goolwa River Retreat villas — Bathe under the stars at Goolwa River Retreat.

An adventure here starts with the perfect place to stay. Echuca Moama is famous for its luxury houseboats. Be spoilt for choice with amenities like spas, chef’s kitchens and en-suites onboard Murray River Houseboats and Echuca Luxury Houseboats .

For those who prefer to stay on dry land to sleep, there’s no shortage of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. The villas at Goolwa River Retreat offer spectacular views of the Murray Riverfront, cosy evenings by the fire pit. And, a truly unique and luxurious experience: bathing under the stars in an outdoor bathtub.

Families travelling with young kids will appreciate the fully self-contained cabins, which sleep up to six, at NRMA Echuca Holiday Park . Complete with BBQ facilities and a kids’ playground, Echuca Holiday Park is the perfect base for families exploring the Echuca Moama region.

More adventurous guests can experience off-grid serenity at Carriages Water Front Retreat , where they can slumber among the redgums in a lovingly converted vintage train carriage.

If you prefer a more central place to stay, the Mercure Port of Echuca is located just five minutes from the Port of Echuca on foot and offers comfortable rooms, as well as easy access to all the region has to offer.

2. Explore the Murray River

PaddlesteamerS on the Murray River — Jump aboard one of Echuca Moama’s famous paddlesteamers.

A trip to Echuca Moama isn’t complete without seeing the Murray River. Take in views from the water, with Murray River Paddlesteamers and Echuca Paddlesteamers . Or combine sightseeing with lunch at a local winery or brewery on a Wharf to Winery or Port to Plate cruise .

Those who prefer an active holiday can hire a stand-up paddleboard with Echuca SUP to explore the river. Duck under the historic Echuca Moama Bridge and listen out for local wildlife. At the end of your paddleboarding trip, you’ll find a shuttle service to return you to the car park.

Kayaking is another great option if you like to combine seeing the sights with a full-body workout. Hire a kayak from River Country Adventours , or join a river safari for a guided experience.

3. Go hiking and biking in Echuca Moama

two bikers riding on the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail — Peddle along the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail.

On foot or by bike, there are plenty of trails to explore the region. Embark on a guided e-bike tour with Green Pedal (or hire an e-bike and go it alone) to explore the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail . Traverse through beautiful bushland and the scenic Waranga Basin. Bakeries and picnic areas in the historic town of Rushworth provide the perfect place for refreshments.

Day trip to the lookout at Whroo Forest, near the now-abandoned Whroo township, located on historic Balaclava Hill. The Hill was once the site of Victoria’s largest open-cut gold mine and home to a thriving town. Today, the area offers picturesque walking tracks and picnic sites.

4. Taste Echuca Moama’s best dining options

lobster dish on the table at opa in echuca moama — Taste delicious, authentic Greek at Opa. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Whether you like a candlelit dinner or a coffee in the sunshine, Echuca Moama is ready to delight your taste buds.

Pop into Opa for authentic Greek fare with views of the town from its upstairs balcony. Enjoy seasonal produce at The Mill , offering everything from global street food and share plates to classic dinner and dessert options inside a historic building.

Discover a local secret at Monkee and Co , a relaxed Asian-fusion restaurant serving up classics like Banh Mi and dumplings.

Start the day with excellent coffee and waterfront views at the family-run Watson St Pavilion .

5. Drink at Echuca Moama’s best bars

two people drinking cockatails at paradise bar in echuca moama — Cheers to neon at Paradise Bar.

Top-notch tipples can be found at Paradise Bar , a new cocktail bar serving up handcrafted cocktails to delight the taste buds in the heart of Echuca. The menu features classics like mojitos, margs, and spritzers. As well as Paradise’s own creations featuring funky ingredients like bubble gum syrup and an Old Fashioned with truffle oil.

Bar Lee at the Echuca Distillery is the place to go to watch the sun go down at the rooftop bar, taste Echuca’s locally made spirits and nibble your way through an exceptional selection of share plates.

For river views, excellent service and a more than extensive wine menu, head to Social Wine Bar . You’ll find a laid-back atmosphere in the riverfront beer garden that sprawls out under an ancient pine tree and a cosy interior perfect for hiding away on a cool evening.

6. Follow local art trails

Jump in the car and follow the Silo Art Trail.

The region’s silos have been transformed into impressive, towering canvases depicting local fauna, Echuca’s historical links to industry and the building of the local railroad. Follow the Silo Art Trail by car, which takes between three and four hours.

Rochester Mural Park is home to an annual lineup of changing murals, while the Rochester Mural Festival showcases established and emerging artists.

7. Dive into local history

Echuca Port Museum and Penny Tourism — See the historic Port of Echuca.

The Echuca Moama region is bursting with history. Among its historical treasures is the Port of Echuca . Interactive displays showcase the port’s importance to historical trade along the river, industrial sites like the Evans Brothers Sawmill and the Port of Echuca railway station with its very own heritage steam train.

The displays pay homage to the site’s significance to the local Yorta Yorta People and their ancestral connection to the land where the Murray, Campaspe and Goulburn Rivers meet.

Explore the port independently or join a guided tour to learn from Echuca’s history buffs.

Learn more and start planning the perfect holiday to Echuca Moama at visitechucamoama.com.au.

The best city breaks in Australia this summer