Australia has once again captured global attention, with Melbourne securing the #1 spot in Time Out’s Best Cities 2026list.
Affectionately known as the “Coffee Capital of the World,” Melbourne earned the top ranking thanks to its vibrant café culture, outstanding culinary scene, major sporting events, and effortlessly cool neighbourhoods filled with indie cinemas and rooftop bars. Add to that heritage-listed architecture, colourful mural-lined laneways, expansive gardens, and the culturally significant Yarra River—and it’s easy to see why Melbourne continues to charm visitors from around the globe.
Two other Australian cities also made the list. Sydney ranked #21, celebrated for its lush green spaces, dynamic arts scene, and diverse international cuisine. Adelaide, at #29, impressed with its easy access to nature and highly walkable city centre.
Feeling inspired to plan your next adventure? Discover these unique experiences and explore the vibrant landscapes, flavours, and creativity that make Australia home to some of the world’s best cities.
Taste Melbourne’s Most Famous Croissants at Lune’s Largest Store
Lune Croissanterie—the bakery that transformed Australia’s croissant scene and gained a global following—has opened its largest location yet on Lonsdale Street in Melbourne.
Nicknamed “Maxi Lune,” the new flagship features a striking glass-walled production cube capable of producing over 6,000 pastries daily, double the capacity of the original Fitzroy store. The venue also offers seating for up to 50 guests.
Visitors can enjoy Lune’s iconic classic croissants, alongside favourites like the twice-baked almond croissant and seasonal cruffins. This marks Lune’s eighth store in Australia and fourth in Melbourne.
Distil Seaweed-Infused Gin on South Australia’s Wild Coast
On South Australia’s rugged coastline, Coffin Bay Spirits has introduced Wild Spirits: A Seaweed & Botanical Exploration, an immersive distilling experience overlooking Coffin Bay National Park.
Guests can wander the Botanical Trail, taste freshly harvested seaweed collected by local free divers, and sample specialty gin cocktails paired with local produce.
Located on the Eyre Peninsula, just a 50-minute flight from Adelaide, the experience includes return transport from Coffin Bay town.
Cook Fresh Seafood at the New Sydney Fish Market
Dive into Australia’s seafood culture with a hands-on cooking class at the newly opened Sydney Fish Market.
At the Sydney Seafood School, sunlit cooking stations overlook stunning harbour views, while a dedicated event space and oyster bar elevate the experience. Classes range from oyster shucking with market experts to chef-led demonstrations using the day’s freshest catch.
For more than two decades, the school has been teaching home cooks and food lovers how to prepare Australia’s world-class seafood.
Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Field of Light at Uluru
What began as a temporary one-year installation at the spiritual heart of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park has become one of Australia’s most iconic art experiences.
In April 2026, Bruce Munro’s Field of Light celebrates its 10th anniversary. Inspired by desert wildflowers blooming after rain, the breathtaking installation features 50,000 solar-powered light stems spread across an area the size of seven football fields.
Enhance the experience with the Field of Light Uluru Dinner, an unforgettable evening that begins with the award-winning Sounds of Silence dinner beneath the desert sky before exploring the illuminated landscape.
Stay in Eucalyptus-Inspired Rooms in Tasmania
Adina Apartment Hotels will debut in Tasmania in late 2026, bringing 48 stylish apartment-style rooms to the heart of Hobart.
The hotel’s design draws inspiration from Tasmania’s sweeping eucalyptus forests, featuring natural timbers, soft green hues, and warm earthy tones.
Guests can step outside to explore Hobart’s vibrant dining scene, galleries, and the iconic Salamanca Market. Studios and one- or two-bedroom apartments include fully equipped kitchens and flexible living spaces.
Located within the same development as Vibe Hobart, guests will also enjoy shared amenities including the Belvedere restaurant and bar, conference spaces, a swimming pool, and a gym.
Experience “Pond-to-Plate” Dining Near Perth
In Western Australia’s scenic Bunbury Geographe region—about a two-hour drive south of Perth—Capel Marron Farm offers a unique pond-to-plate dining experience.
Dine beside the farm’s working marron ponds while enjoying a menu centred on the prized freshwater crayfish, complemented by local produce, Murray cod, and silver perch.
Open for lunch from Wednesday to Sunday, the experience showcases the authentic flavours of Western Australia’s South West.
Meet Australia’s Largest Crocodiles on the Gold Coast
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has unveiled Croc Wetlands, a new crocodilian precinct where visitors can get remarkably close to one of Australia’s legendary five-metre saltwater crocodiles.
Guests can also meet four newly arrived alligators—Ace, Cal, Big John, and The Rock—alongside long-time residents Patty and Boss Hog.
Join the Croc Wetlands Keeper Talk for a fascinating opportunity to meet reptile experts, learn about each species’ unique characteristics, and discover how these ancient predators are cared for.
Discover Canberra’s First Specialty Matcha House
Canberra’s food scene has welcomed a refined new addition with the opening of Ujin Matcha House, the city’s first specialty matcha store.
The café serves matcha sourced directly from Japan and whisked using traditional bamboo chasen. Guests can choose from four signature blends as well as rotating seasonal matcha selections.
Pair your drink with beautifully crafted matcha-inspired desserts for a calming and flavourful experience.
Discover Something New in Australia
From vibrant cities and world-class food to unique nature experiences and cultural landmarks, there’s always something new to explore in Australia.
Start planning your next adventure and discover just how extraordinary a holiday Down Under can be.
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