Australia's Best Towns for a Regional Sojourn in 2024
The best towns in Australia for a regional getaway have been revealed.
As the world's sixth-largest country by land mass, Australia has no shortage of destinations to explore. But it's not just the big cities or tropical islands we're talking about. Australia is bursting at the seams with rural towns rich in history and packed with cultural and foodie experiences.
But where to start? Wotif recently did the hard yards as part of their Aussie Town of the Year Awards and the winners are in. Read on for the best towns in Australia to visit in 2024...
Stanley, TAS
A coastal town packed with heritage cottages and historic landmarks? It's a yes please from us. Stanley offers plenty to do on a little weekend coastal escape from trips to the museum to seal cruises and hikes up the iconic The Nut.
Stay: Ship Inn Stanley
Don't Miss: Searching out some fairy penguins at Godfrey's Beach.
Bendigo, VIC
At just under two hours from Melbourne, Bendigo is a top choice for city slickers looking to escape the hustle and bustle for the weekend. A strong gold rush legacy lends the town historical interest with visitors able to explore the Central Deborah Gold Mine. The holder of Australia's first UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy title means there's plenty to eat, drink and do, too!
Stay: Mercure Bendigo Schaller
Don't Miss: Dining at Masons of Bendigo for a taste of the finest produce in the region.
Broken Hill, NSW
One of NSW's most famous country towns, Broken Hill has long been a hub for art and culture as well as a well-positioned base to explore Mutawintji National Park. You may recognise Broke Hill as featured in 1994 cult classic Priscilla Queen of the Desert.
Stay: Royal Exchange Hotel
Don't Miss: The Living Dessert and Sculptures for an outdoor, otherworldly art experience.
Stanthorpe, QLD
Just 2.5 hours west of Brisbane lies Stanthorpe, one of only two state-recognised wine-growing regions. With 50+ cellar doors, apple picking and truffle hunts, this foodie-focused town is ideal for a winter getaway.
Stay: Dimondvale Estate
Don't Miss: Embark on a two-wheeled wine tour with Granite Belt Bicycle Tours.
Katherine, NT
Sweeping gorges, tumbling waterfalls and cultural experiences abound in Katherine. Traditional lands of the Jawoyn, Dagoman and Wardaman Aboriginal peoples, this exceptionally significant land is home to a diverse art scene begging to be explored.
Stay: Cicada Lodge
Don't Miss: Take a dip in the incredible Katherine Hot Springs.
Bathurst, NSW
History lovers, this town is for you. If you haven't yet had a chance to explore Bathurst, prep yourself for gold panning, a visit to an authentic gold rush village and a selection of museums. You'll also find Mount Panorama/Wahluu, the home of V8 supercars.
Stay: Rydges Mount Panorama Bathurst
Don't Miss: Embark on an Indigenous cultural tour to learn about the rich history of the area.
Tanunda, SA
Nestled in the lush Barossa Valley, Tanunda is the place to head if top-tier wine and beautiful bites are the order of the day. Just an hour from Adelaide, it's easy to make a weekend of this regional escape, too.
Stay: Barossa Weintal Hotel
Don't Miss: Indulging in a chocolate and wine pairing experience at Barossa Valley Chocolate Company.
Griffith, NSW
With a rich history of Italian immigration combined with nutrient-rich soil and idyllic growing conditions, Griffith's food scene is worth a visit alone. You'd need at least a week to sample all the produce and wine the region has to offer so be sure to book an extra-long weekend.
Stay: Quest Griffith
Don't Miss: Griffith Pioneer Park Museum for a unique insight into the town's history.
Exmouth, WA
Famed for its azure waters and pristine beaches, Exmouth is the perfect destination for coastal enthusiasts. Buzzing with activity, diving, snorkelling and surfing are just a few of the water sports available to you.
Stay: Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef
Don't Miss: The experience of a lifetime, swimming with whale sharks!
Coober Pedy, SA
Famous as one of Australia's most-visited desert towns, Coober Pedy is also Australia's opal capital. To escape the heat, many of the town's homes, hotels, churches, museums, and shops can be found underground, offering visitors a chance to see what it's like to truly live in central Australia.
Stay: Desert Cave Hotel
Don't Miss: The underground churches.
If you've well and truly caught the travel bug from this edit of the best towns to visit in Australia in 2024 and are looking for more travel inspo, be sure to check out our edits of the best road trips in NSW and the best road trips in Australia.
