Relax and Reset: The Top 5 Australian Holiday Destinations for 2023 Revealed

Whoever coined the phrase "change is as good as a holiday" clearly hasn’t nipped off for a frolic in The Whitsundays as of late. If it’s been a while since your last escape, we’re here to inspire (and encourage you) to book one in. There is nothing quite as motivating as the thought of a weekend city escape or a weeklong soiree on a tropical island to get you through the impending winter months.

Australian travel company Luxury Escapes has released its annual Travel Trends report just in time to help you plan a winter getaway. With the finding that nine in ten Australians plan to travel this year with bucket list trips and foodie-focused adventures taking priority, the only question left is: where to go? We’ve got it on good authority that these are the top five Australian holiday destinations you ought to hit up in 2023. Read on for the goods…

Tropical Far North Queensland

With experiential travel high on Australian travellers’ bucket lists, we’re not surprised that Tropical Far North Queensland has swooped in at number one. With an abundance of waterfalls, hiking trails and wildlife encounters, it’s the ideal destination for the adventure-seeking tourist. Take a peek at our edit of one-of-a-kind experiences in FNQ if you’re keen to plan the trip of a lifetime. For the full FNQ experience, we recommend booking one of these rainforests stays.

The Whitsundays & Queensland Islands

Nothing screams holiday more than an island escape and here in Australia, we’re blessed with some of the best. White sand, world-class snorkelling and seafood platters abound in The Whitsundays and Queensland Islands. If your top priority is relaxation, this pick is for you. Not sure where to start on selecting your dream island? Peruse our edit of Australia’s best island holidays. Whether you’re after something remote or an island packed with foodie gems, there’s something for everyone.

The Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is a classic Australian holiday destination and for good reason – it’s got a bit of everything. You’ll find bars, cafes and restaurants lining the streets with plenty of beaches to visit by day and cocktails to sip by night. Sort out your hit list with this edit of the best restaurants in the Gold Coast which covers everything from fine dining to casual bites. As for hotels, you’re spoiled for choice with options ranging from the boujee Palazzo Versace to the retro Mysa Motel. If you’re feeling nostalgic you can tour Australia’s most famous theme parks or take a day trip to the hinterland for meandering walks and scenic spots.

Hobart

This petite capital really does have it all from artisanal eats to mind-blowing art, markets and boutique stays so we’re not surprised it made the list. Hobart is a year-round destination with cosy pubs making it ideal for a winter escape and summer sun the perfect backdrop to a morning spent wandering Salamanca Market. If seasonal eats, cheese and wine are at the top of your wish list, this is the city for you.

Melbourne

Melbourne is the ultimate city escape with an endless stream of incredible bars, cafes and restaurants to hit up. If you’re keen to shop, eat and sip coffee to your heart’s content, this is the place to do it. There are plenty of events occurring in the city every week as well as a heap of free activities if you’re on a budget. Each suburb of this lifestyle-focused city boasts its own array of gems so be sure to check out our suburb guides to find which is right for you. Don’t forget to indulge in one of Melbourne’s finest day spas whilst you’re here – you’re on holiday after all!

Soaked all of this in but keen to glean some more travel inspiration? Check out our travel guides here. Road trips, staycations and international gems are in abundance. All about one-of-a-kind experiences? Here are some of our top picks.