Winter Months Australia
Winter in Australia runs from June to August, offering a range of climates throughout its eight states and territories, which is the opposite to the northern hemisphere. 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.
Winter Destinations
Sydney
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. While taking a dip at the infamous Bondi Beach may not be at the top of your to-do list this winter, don’t miss the annual Bondi Winter Magic Festival in which Bondi is transformed into a winter wonderland – don’t miss 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 quaint 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! We all know that there is nothing better after a day out shopping than to go and enjoy a nice meal in a cosy café or restaurant. Sydney is bursting with top places to eat and drink but if you are looking to spoil someone special then check out our list of the most breathtaking restaurants around Sydney to celebrate a special occasion.
Looking for somewhere warm and welcoming to stay on your next trip to Sydney, Accor Hotels offers a range of accommodation around the city for you to choose from. Find your perfect Sydney winter accommodation now!
Adelaide
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 quaint 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 numerous award-winning restaurants scattered throughout the Barossa Valley.
Be sure not to miss the Barossa Gourmet Weekend which runs from the 6 – 8 September 2019 showcasing produce from over 20 local wineries, growers and restaurants.
Whether you are exploring the city, or using Adelaide as a base for your countryside adventures, Accor Hotels will make you feel right at home this winter. Find great accommodation in Adelaide this winter.
Melbourne
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 poking your head down 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) fanatic, then Melbourne is the place to be this 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.
My personal favourite is to attend Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series each year at the National Gallery of Victoria. This year we have Terracotta Warriors & Cai Guo-Qiang in a dual exhibition.
- Andrew Natoli - Chief Concierge, Sofitel Melbourne on Collins
Whether you are after affordable accommodation in the city centre or you would like to treat yourself with a hotel room in the city’s Parisian district, Accor Hotels is sure to have the ideal accommodation to suit your next winter escape. Find accommodation in Melbourne!
Leura
Just 100 kilometres west of Sydney and nestled 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 and watching the snow fall (fingers crossed), then Leura is where you need to be this winter.
Step into a winter wonderland at Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains during Yulefest with roaring fires, storybook scenery and even the occasional snowfall.
- Thomas Brand, Director of Sales & Marketing, Fairmont Resort & Spa
If you are a ‘winter in July’ fanatic, then the good news is the Blue Mountains is the top destinations for this mid-fear festivity. Don’t miss this year’s Winter Magic Festival where artists, musicians, and stalls take over the streets of Katoomba to celebrate the winter solstice.
Hotels and restaurants such as the Fairmont Resort and Spa even put on Christmas specials during this semi-festive season,
Celebrate Christmas in July this winter at The Fairmont Resort and Spa in Leura. 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.
Winter Sun
Cairns
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 jungle surfing 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. And you can rest assured that some of our marine ‘nasties’ take a break in winter – it’s no longer jellyfish season!
Looking for a great place for you and your family to call home during your next trip to Cairns? Accor Hotels offers a range of accommodation to suit all sizes of travelling groups. Find accommodation in Cains now!
Brisbane
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 (11o to 21o), it is also well set up for those colder or rainy days. Roam around Brisbane’s great museums & galleries such as GOMA and The Sceincentre for hands-on exhibits that kids and adults will enjoy.
For any foodies out there, Brisbane plays host to the Brisbane Good Food Month in July. Enjoy exclusive dinner experiences and tantalising lunches, cooking classes, demonstrations and of course the much-loved Night Noodle Market. This travelling pop up food market showcases 20 Asian food stalls which are sure to tantalise your tastebuds.
Looking to explore Brisbane as the locals do? Brisbane’s hidden laneways meander throughout the city offering unique weekend markets, hole in the wall coffee spots and top-notch restaurants serving meals alfresco. On the hunt for a cosy wine bar to make your second home this winter? Maeve Wine Bar is your venue of choice, offering a top-notch wine list accompanied by a seasonally driven menu designed to share.
Maeve Wine Bar has a great cosy atmosphere, where you feel comfortable, great food very nice to share with some modern dishes (garlic waffles & blue cheese). There is an international wine list and the staff are knowledgeable and friendly. Great location in South Bank to catch up with friends.
- Nicolas Jerz, Food and Beverage Manager, Novotel Brisbane South Bank
There are plenty of great day trips from Brisbane, making it an excellent base for your next winter sun holiday. Take a scenic road trip to Glass House Mountain or Mount Tamborine, or discover the best beaches within driving distance of Brisbane. No matter what brings you to Brisbane this winter, Accor Hotels is sure to make you feel at home with 17 hotels across the city. Find accommodation in Brisbane!
No matter where in Australia you are looking to visit this Winter, Accor has your covered with a range of hotels to suit all budgets. Check out Accor to book your next winter getaway.
