THE AUSSIE CITY JUST NAMED ONE OF THE WORLD'S MOST UNDERRATED DESTINATIONS
Forget the crowds of Byron Bay, because one of the world's most underrated destinations is just a two-hour drive north of Sydney.
Newcastle has been named on Time Out's global list of the 41 most underrated destinations to visit in 2027, coming in at number 30.
It is in good Aussie company too, with Tasmania at number 28 and Victoria's Gippsland at number 39.
If you have been looking for an easy summer escape that won't break the bank, this could be the nudge you need.
Why Newcastle Made The List Of Underrated Destinations
Compiled by Time Out's international travel team, the list celebrates places that deliver plenty but have not yet been overrun by tourists.
Time Out Sydney reports that the former coal-mining and port town has quietly grown into a destination in its own right.
Think a thriving café culture, great restaurants, live music venues, a respected art gallery and spectacular coastal walks.
Time Out travel editor Alice Ellis summed it up nicely, saying you get "the best of a relaxed beach escape and buzzing city break in one".
The city sits on the traditional lands of the Awabakal and Worimi people.
Beaches, Ocean Baths And A Famous Lighthouse
If you love a swim, Newcastle is pure bliss.
Merewether Ocean Baths is billed as the biggest ocean pool in the Southern Hemisphere, and it is the perfect spot for a morning dip without the worry of big surf.
Nobbys Beach is another favourite, with the much-photographed Nobbys Lighthouse perched on the headland above.
Pack comfortable shoes, because the coastal walks here are made for lazy mornings and a takeaway coffee in hand.
The Honeysuckle waterfront precinct is lovely for an afternoon stroll along the harbour, with plenty of places to stop for lunch.
Where To Eat And Drink
Time Out's tip is to start the evening with a sunset drink at the rooftop bar of QT Newcastle.
From there, head to Flotilla, a restaurant that focuses on regional produce and wine from the surrounding area.
With the Hunter Valley wine region on Newcastle's doorstep, it is easy to add a day trip to the cellar doors if you are staying a little longer.
The Rest Of The World's Most Underrated Destinations
Topping the full Time Out list is Bucovina in Romania, a region famous for its painted monasteries and rolling countryside.
South Dakota in the United States came second, followed by the cities of Asturias in northern Spain.
Other picks that caught our eye include the Azores, Ishikawa in Japan, Malmö in Sweden and Côn Đảo in Vietnam.
Prince Edward Island in Canada, Karpathos in Greece and Turku in Finland also made the cut, so there is inspiration for every kind of traveller.
It is a lovely reminder that some of the most memorable trips happen away from the usual tourist hotspots.
How To Plan Your Newcastle Getaway
Getting there could not be simpler, as it is roughly two hours by car from Sydney or around two and a half hours on the train.
That makes it ideal for a girls' weekend, a family road trip or a romantic overnight stay without the hassle of airports.
Summer weekends and school holidays will be busiest, so book accommodation early if you have your heart set on particular dates.
If you can manage a midweek visit, you are more likely to snag better rates and quieter beaches.
Remember to pack sunscreen, a hat and a reusable water bottle, as the coastal walks offer limited shade on hot days.
Time Out's advice is to visit soon, before the secret is well and truly out.
With Christmas holidays around the corner, it might just be the easy escape your summer needs.
