Winter in Australia: Best Holiday Destinations

Whether you are in search of some winter sun or eager to enjoy crisp winter mornings, there is plenty to see and do at these top winter holiday destinations around Australia.

Winter in Australia runs from June to August, offering a range of climates throughout the country's eight states and territories.

From snowfields perfect for skiing in parts of Victoria to a dry season in the tropical north offering ideal snorkelling conditions, winter in Australia offers something for every traveller.

Make the most of your winter break with a holiday in one of these Australian cities. With attractions that are just as much fun in winter as they are in summer, it's time to start planning your winter holiday.

While Sydney may shine in summer, it is just as beautiful in the cooler months – and less busy. 

Explore Sydney’s great cultural scene at one of the city’s many galleries and museums – the perfect way to escape the wet and windy weather outside. Uncover Australia’s colourful past at the Australian Museum or learn about all things aquatic at the Australian National Maritime Museum. 

Just because it’s a little chilly outside doesn’t mean you need to spend all your time indoors. Don your walking shoes and winter jacket and head for the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk which takes you around Sydney’s beautiful coastline. And don't miss the annual Bondi Festival when Bondi is transformed into a winter wonderland and you get the chance to go ice skating on Australia’s only beachside ice rink!

If you are in the mood to explore local shops and eateries, then there are plenty of Sydney suburbs to explore. From Surry Hills’ great foodie scene to Paddington’s amazing boutique shopping, you are sure to score yourself a one-off find.

Often overlooked, Adelaide in South Australia is a great Australian winter destination. While temperatures might dip in the wintertime, the city remains mostly dry, creating great conditions for you to get out and explore.

We suggest you start your trip in the city’s laneways. Offering everything from cosy wine bars, small craft beer pubs, boutique stores and of course some of Adelaide’s best cafes like Coffee Branch.

After your caffeine and breakfast fix, it’s time to get exploring. Head to the Botanic Gardens to stretch your legs in this 51-hectare public garden or wander through Adelaide’s museums and galleries for a dose of culture – we recommend the Art Gallery of South Australia which attracts 780,000 visitors each year. 

Need some inspiration on where to grab a bite to eat in Adelaide? From weekend farmer markets to restaurants offering regional comfort food, Adelaide offering something for everyone.

Book a table at one of Adelaide’s top eateries, Africola, which offers a modern spin on African cuisine like kingfish sashimi, wagyu rump and tahini ice cream.

If you are on the hunt for a great cocktail menu to enjoy with your meal, then Gin Long Canteen is a modern Asian eatery serving dishes such as spring rolls and slow braised pork belly alongside thirst-quenching cocktails.

Adelaide also offers a great range of close by towns and regions which are all within driving distance, making them great for day trips . Visit Australia's oldest surviving German settlement, Hahndorf or take a scenic drive to the Fleurieu Peninsula for sweeping beaches and lush, rolling scenery.

A trip to Adelaide is not complete without visiting the beautiful Barossa Valley, just a hop, skip and jump away from the CBD. What could be better than sipping a glass of shiraz as you sit by the fire in a beautiful winery overlooking stunning vineyards? Alternatively, you can enjoy a hearty meal in one of the award-winning restaurants scattered throughout the Barossa Valley.

It’s easy to see why Melbourne is one of Australia’s best winter holiday destinations. Winter in this artsy, cosmopolitan city provides plenty of indoor activities for you to escape the winter chill, such as museums and galleries, plus great shopping.

No visit to Melbourne is complete without walking the city’s famous street art laneways. From Hosier Lane to Duckboard Place, there are plenty of Instagram-worthy street art murals for to you marvel at. 

After you’ve explored Melbourne’s great cultural scene and shopping precincts you’ll be just about ready to enjoy a meal at one of the city’s top restaurants. From 5-star dining to hole-in-the-wall pizza joints and cafes tucked away down the city’s winding laneways, there is no shortage of places to eat and drink across Melbourne.

If you are an AFL (Australia Football League) fan, then Melbourne is the place to be in winter. With heaving crowds at both the MCG and Marvel Stadium, you are sure to enjoy the buzzing atmosphere. Be sure to book your tickets in advance though as sears can sell out fast. 

Want to escape the city for the day and enjoy regional Victoria? Luckily, there is a whole range of day trips from Melbourne for you to enjoy. From winery-hopping in the Yarra Valley to incredible beaches and coastline along the Great Ocean Road, you will never be short of day trips from Melbourne.

Just 100 kilometres west of Sydney located in the beautiful Blue Mountains, Leura is one of New South Wales’s hidden winter gems.

If you love nothing more than donning your winter coat and taking a brisk hike through the stunning Blue Mountains, or even staying in by the fire, then Leura is where you need to be this winter.

If you enjoy celebrating winter, the good news is the Blue Mountains is among the top destinations for mid-year winter festivities. Don’t miss this annual Winter Magic Festival where artists, musicians, and stalls take over the streets of Katoomba to celebrate the winter solstice. 

Hotels and restaurants such as Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains put on Christmas specials during this semi-festive season. From a lobby adorned with tinsel and Christmas trees, to a festive Yulefest with all the trimmings. It’s hard to not get in the Christmas spirit.

If your idea of the perfect winter holiday is to head to a warmer climate, we've got some dream holiday destinations that'll have you packing your swimmers and beach towel in no time.

Escape the chill and take a trip to tropical Cairns this winter. With warm sea temperatures and cooling breezes, it’s no wonder that winter in Cairns is peak season. 

Unpack your hiking shoes and explore the great outdoors on a walk through the magnificent Daintree Rainforest which is home to some of Australia’s unique wildlife such as the Cassowary.

With little to no humidity and crisp blue skies, there is no better time to enjoy the great outdoors around Cairns. From rainforest canopy tours to white water rafting and even hot air ballooning, there is a whole range of other outdoor activities to enjoy in Cairns. Whether you are snorkelling, scuba diving or just relaxing with a bit of beach time, there are plenty of ways to explore the Great Barrier Reef. 

If you are seeking out some winter sun during the chilly season, then Brisbane has got you covered. Not only does this city keep warmer temperatures throughout winter, it is also well set up for those colder or rainy days.

Roam around Brisbane’s great museums and galleries such as Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) and SparkLab at Queensland Museum for hands-on exhibits that kids and adults will enjoy.