The 10 Prettiest Autumn Towns To Visit

From brilliant colours to out-of-this-world wildlife experiences, autumn hits differently in these Australian towns.

One can no more say what autumn ‘is’ in Australia than you can rattle off the thousands of ecosystems we have here on this mind-boggling big continent.

Here, autumn is not so often the scent of spiced pumpkin in the air and piles of dead leaves to kick through, as it is a definite shift in the natural world towards the colder months.

Whether you want your autumnal experience to be gallivanting through a deciduous forest or escaping the incoming chill for just that little bit longer, we’ve got the town for you.

1. Orange, NSW

While it’s always a good time to visit the vines in this Central West town, come autumn Orange attracts visitors from all around the state for its Orange F.O.O.D (Food of Orange District) Week . If you can’t make it for the end of March when the festival is on, don’t fret. Head out apple picking, book in for some tastings at a local vineyard and prepare for your tastebuds to be dazzled at one of its gourmet natural restaurants.

Cook Park Orange in autumn — Orange in Autumn is not to be missed. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Bright, Vic

Take a weekend break up in the High Country town of Bright. In autumn, the Victorian Alps are at their best as local poplars, elms, oaks and maple trees burst into spectacular fall colours.

If you come at the end of April, there are the activities of the 10-day Bright Autumn Festival to enjoy too; like a gala day with street stalls and the charming Wandiligong Nut Festival .

Autumn leaves in Bright Victoria — Enjoy a weekend break in the High Country town of Bright.

3. Exmouth, WA

Swap one majestic natural experience for another when you fly to the town of Exmouth on the Coral Coast to see the annual migration of whale sharks. These gentle giants are the biggest fish in the world.

Each year, they make their way to the Ningaloo Reef on the Western Australian coast, near Exmouth. Once you spot them on a tour, you can even slip into the waters for a closer look.

Exmouth Dive & Whalesharks, Ningaloo — See the annual migration of whale sharks in Exmouth. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

4. The Barossa, SA

When the days begin to cool and the foliage turns, it’s grape-picking time in Barossa Valley wine country.

As well as stopping at the region’s famous cellar doors, spend an afternoon bushwalking in the nearby Kaiserstuhl Conservation Park or Para Wirra Conservation Park, or cycling through town with your friends.

Trevallie Orchard in the Barossa — Pick some grapes in the Barossa this autumn. (Image: Barossa Grape & Wine Association)

5. Strahan, Tas

Located at the entry to the wilderness of western Tasmania, Strahan is surrounded by a whopping 19 national parks and reserves.

Embark on an adventure with Gordon River Cruise, explore the nearby rainforests, get a taste of the harsh convict life at Sarah Island on Macquarie Harbour , and gorge yourself on the freshest of fresh seafood at this marine town.

Strahan Waterfront in tasmania — Explore the wilderness from this marine town. (Image: Stu Gibson)

6. Armidale, NSW

Take the Waterfall Way inland out to this New England High Country town for the Armidale Autumn Festival. A celebration of the changing of seasons, it takes place at the beginning of April, when the burnt oranges begin to take root in the foliage.

For the rest of the time, take a trip out to the stunning Ebor Falls, sip on Armidale’s cool climate wines, take a heritage tour , stop by the Armidale Folk Museum to find out more about the region’s settler backstory, and visit the Armidale and Region Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place .

Autumn leaves across the city of Armidale NSW — Visit the Armidale Autumn Festival for a celebration of the changing of seasons. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Toowoomba, Qld

Ninety minutes from the state’s capital, up in the Great Dividing Range, ‘the garden city’ of Toowoomba is resplendent come autumn.

Start with a walk in the heritage-listed Queens Park, with its tree-lined avenues, and then head up to Picnic’s Point, with its epic views over the colours of the Great Dividing Range. Want more? We’ve lined up the best things to do in Toowoomba, here.

Vines on walls in Toowoomba Queensland — Toowoomba, ‘the garden city’, blooms in autumn. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

8. Margaret River, WA

Come March, the summer crowds that visit this magical wine and produce region are dying down, making the summer the perfect time to plan your trip here.

Between the food and wine trails, walks among the towering karri forests and on the Cape to Cape Track, and explorations of ancient cave systems, take a trip to the actual town of Margaret River for its boutique shops and bars.

Group of friends walking through the Boranup Karri Forest — Walk among the towering trees of the Boranup Karri Forest. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

9. Richmond, Tas

Take a day trip from Hobart to the colonial-era town of Richmond. With buildings that date back to the 1820s, a trip to this pretty Tassie town can seem like a step back in time.

Check out the view of the Coal River from the Richmond Bridge, which was built by convict labour, and take a trip to Australia’s oldest intact gaol.

Try a tipple from the nearby Coal River Valley growing region, stop by the miniature model village, and search for goodies at the village market.

Richmond Bridge in Tasmania — This pretty Tassie town can seem like a step back in time. (Image: Poon Wai Nang)

10. Yarra Valley, Vic

While it may be most famous for its pinot noir and chardonnay, the Yarra Valley is also a stunner when it comes to its pretty autumnal gardens.

From the water features and blooms of the Alfred Nicholas Gardens to the golden canopy of the George Tindale Memorial Garden , there’s plenty to see.

Closer to the heart of the Yarra, take a tour of the wineries; that, at this time of the year, will be collecting up the grape harvest.

Autumn leaves falling at TarraWarra Estate, Yarra Valley — The Yarra Valley is also a stunner when it comes to its pretty autumnal gardens.

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

The 10 prettiest autumn towns you need to visit