An Australian city break: best attractions and activities

A weekend city break could be just what you need for inspiration and re-energising. Lucky for us then, that Australia’s top cities literally burst with opportunities for fun, exploration and indulging in top fashion, shopping and family-friendly attractions.

Here, we take a look at some of the very best.

Melbourne

Graffiti-strewn laneways, cosy street bars and quirky galleries blend with renowned museums and sporting events in Melbourne. Take a tour of the MCG or the Tennis Centre at Melbourne Park. The kids will love Luna Park at St Kilda, not to mention the beach, plus cakes and pastries bursting from bakery windows in Acland Street. Museum-hop, at the National Gallery of Victoria and Cook’s Cottage in the Fitzroy Gardens.  Don’t forget to have a picnic in the lush Royal Botanical Gardens.

Brisbane

It may be the ‘big smoke’ in Queensland, but Brisbane still retains a casual vibe in the centre of the action. Spend a day swimming at Southbank Parklands and take a ride to the top of the City Hall clock tower for free - which is great news for holiday finances. Climb the iconic Story Bridge or jump on the Wheel of Brisbane for city views. When it’s time for a bite to eat, relax by the water at an Eagle Street Pier restaurant, then jump on a boat for a sunset river cruise.

Sydney

Famous for the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney offers a lifetime’s worth of weekend break attractions. Discover history, shopping and dining at The Rocks, get into the festive vibe at Darling Harbour and blend panoramic harbour views with animal fun, at Taronga Zoo. Find bargains in bustling China Town, marvel at the coastline on the Bondi to Coogee clifftop walk and get your dancing shoes on for a night at the glitzy Star Casino.

Adelaide

Adelaide has certainly made a name for itself on the food and wine scene, with the Peel-Leigh Street district a trendy hub of exotic cuisine in gorgeously restored buildings. If you can’t get enough, check out the abundant fresh produce at the Central Market. Port Adelaide offers a walk through history and you’ll find plenty of culture on North Terrace, with the Art Gallery of South Australia and the South Australian Museum.

Perth

Skyscrapers, green parks and colonial architecture blends with pristine beaches on the Indian Ocean, in Perth. Kings Park is where you’ll find river views and bushland walks. Shop till you drop in Leederville’s Oxford Street, discover historic remnants in Fremantle and enjoy the flourishing wine and tapas scene in the CBD.

An Australian city break is an escape into unique culture, family fun and a serious sense of wonder.