Every Stop To Make On The Sydney To Brisbane Drive

Put your foot down and soak up jaw-dropping splendour on your next Sydney to Brisbane drive.

If you like driving through country towns and not past them, then a Sydney to Brisbane drive through New England High Country is for you.

Whether you’ve got a few days or even a week to meander through charming country towns, delightful cafes, classic bakeries and stunning scenery, the journey flows with memorable sights from start to finish. We map out the absolute must-experiences so you can wind down the window and watch the good times roll on.

Sydney

No Sydney to Brisbane drive kicks off without dipping a foot in the unmistakable hum of the Harbour City.

A whip around Circular Quay, set right off Sydney Harbour, will help you tick off all the icons at once — think the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, Museum of Contemporary Art (one of the city’s best art galleries) and The Rocks’ historical precinct among a healthy dose of retail boutiques and world-class restaurants.

Ten Thousand Suns, 24th Biennale of Sydney 2024 — Admire awe-striking installations at the Museum of Contemporary Art. (Image: Image by Document Photography)

For a change of pace, head to the northern beaches, home to some of the most exceptional stretches of sand and surf in Sydney. Land in Manly for excellent cafe culture and plenty of adventure, and stretch your legs right up the coastline for relaxed beach towns spilling over with laid-back hipster scenes.

crowds flocking at Sydney Harbour — Admire the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. (Image: Destination NSW)

Stop 1: Newcastle

Once you kiss Sydney goodbye, hit the road for two hours to reach booming Newcastle. Here, you’ll discover a city that’s growing in popularity, and so much more than a relaxed and breezy weekender.

a person holding a surfboard at Merewether Beach, Newcastle — Spend a breezy surfing weekend on Merewether Beach. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Blessed with beautiful beaches of its own, cool cafes and a thriving arts scene, one stop in Newcastle is never enough to capture everything on offer.

the Merewether Beach in Newcastle — Newcastle is blessed with beautiful beaches. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Jana Restaurant & Bar , one of the city’s best restaurants, is the spot for foodies. With capacity for 75 diners, the eatery within the QT Newcastle spins magic out of humble ingredients.

the Jana Restaurant & Bar in Newcastle — The 75-seater Jana Restaurant & Bar is housed in the heritage David Jones building.

Keep exploring this beautiful corner of the world by grabbing your fuel to go. You’ll find top-notch takeaway coffee at the best cafes in Newcastle, including Good Brother Espresso Shop, Darks Coffee Roasters and Praise Joe.

people ordering coffee at Darks Coffee Roasters — Make a pit stop at Darks Coffee Roasters.

Keen to make a night of your adventure? There’s plenty of exceptional accommodation offerings in Newcastle including that QT you’ve already familiarised yourself with, as well as Quest Newcastle West and Crystalbrook Kingsley.

the bed at one of the rooms in Crystalbrook Kingsley — Crystalbrook Kingsley brings contemporary luxury to the CBD. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)

Stop 2: Tamworth

Journey about 3.5 hours and you’ll land in Tamworth, where country music thrives and the dining and entertainment scenes continues to grow. But first, coffee. Punch Double Picc in Muswellbrook into your Maps to find an outstanding fix.

colourful cookies at Double Picc in Muswellbrook — Grab a cookie to pair with your warm brew at Double Picc.

Jump back into the car and push on to Willow Tree where The Plains Pantry is a non-negotiable for fresh local produce, sweet treats or healthy bites, aka lunch.

Have you really visited Tamworth though if you don’t snap a selfie at the Big Golden Guitar? It’s on the southern approach on the New England Highway, so you can’t miss it and despite the clichés, it’s rather a cool tribute to the town’s country music roots. So too, the bronze statues along the main street that pay tribute to an assortment of country music legends.

The Big Golden Guitar Tourist Centre in Tamworth — Snap a selfie at the Big Golden Guitar. (Image: Destination NSW)

Your exploration has only just begun. For casual eats, The Pig & Tinder Box Restaurant & Bar is a local favourite. Housed within Tamworth’s beautiful old bank building, it’s got a menu of creative share plates and traditional wood-fired pizzas.

a plate of food at The Pig & Tinder Box,Tamworth — The Pig & Tinder Box Restaurant & Bar serves up creative share plates. (Image: Destination NSW)

Meanwhile, Goonoo Goonoo Station’s Glasshouse Restaurant is Tamworth’s most celebrated dining destination. With sweeping views over rolling hills to the distant Liverpool Range, it oozes sophistication.

sipping wine at Goonoo Goonoo Station’s Glasshouse Restaurant, Tamworth — Sip premium wines at Goonoo Goonoo Station’s Glasshouse Restaurant overlooking the rolling hills. (Image: Destination NSW)

Culture vultures should stop by the Tamworth Regional Gallery , located in the heart of town, and if you’re feely weary, Powerhouse Hotel Tamworth by Rydges is a five-star beauty with stylish rooms, an inviting bar and one impressive steakhouse.

a couple viewing an art exhibition at the Tamworth Regional Gallery — Head to Tamworth Regional Gallery for all things art. (Image: Destination NSW)

Stop 3: Armidale

Keep trucking about 1.5 hours to find Armidale, where community spirit soars.

the historic grounds of Petersons Armidale Winery & Guesthouse — Stop by Petersons Armidale Winery & Guesthouse to recharge. (Image: Destination NSW)

Hunt down Petersons Armidale Winery & Guesthouse for wine tasting (and potentially your night’s digs) as well as picnicking amid spectacular country gardens with a cheese platter.

a couple enjoying wine tasting at Petersons Armidale Winery & Guesthouse — Sip some of their finest drops. (Image: Destination NSW)

Before you jet off, grab a bottle of something special to enjoy at your next destination.

pouring wine into a glass at Petersons Armidale Winery & Guesthouse — Take one for the road. (Image: Destination NSW)

No trip to the ‘Cathedral City,’ dubbed so thanks to the town’s wonderous colonial buildings, is also in good proximity to hiking trails, like those found in the Washpool National Park and Gibraltar Range National Park.

Witness the sunrise over the Dandahra Crags walking track in Gibraltar Range National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

If it’s time to slow down and recharge your Sydney to Brisbane drive, Petersons is incredibly lush but there’s also the Tattersalls Hotel Armidale which dazzles in Art Deco style.

the historical facade of the Tattersalls Hotel in Armidale — Stay in the Art Deco-style Tattersalls Hotel Armidale. (Image: Destination NSW)

Stop 4: Tenterfield

Soldier on another two hours and you’ll bump into Tenterfield, just 20 kilometres away from the Queensland border. A visit to this town is not complete without visiting the historic Tenterfield Saddler , made famous by the great Peter Allen. The original saddlery is filled with interesting memorabilia and leather goods but it’s the old bones that are guaranteed to fascinate.

the entrance of Tenterfield Saddler — Visit the historic Tenterfield Saddler. (Image: Destination NSW)

Glenrock Gardens is another must-discover in all its 10-acre glory. There’s a working farm on site but simply wandering around the tranquil property is sure to fill up your cup.

a small pond at Glenrock Gardens — Bask in the lush, 10-acre glory of Glenrock Gardens.

On the main street of Tenterfield is The Corner , a sprawling store filled with homewares, fashion, jewellery, accessories and gifts you’ll struggle to say no to. When sleep time calls, The Commercial Boutique Hotel offers eight luxurious rooms above a tastefully restored pub decked out in Art Deco extravagance.

people dining inside the Commercial Boutique Hotel in Tenterfield — Step into the restored pub at Commercial Boutique Hotel. (Image: Destination NSW)

Stop 5: Stanthorpe

Next stop along your Sydney to Brisbane drive is Stanthorpe, one of the beautiful Queensland towns along the state’s Granite Belt.

the vineyard at Tobin Wines — Hop between vineyards in the stunning Stanthorpe. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Wine country flourishes in this neck of the woods so take your time as you hop between vineyards including Tobin Wines and Symphony Hill Wines , both technically in nearby Ballandean, and Ridgemill Estate .

the exterior of Tobin Wines in Stanthorpe — Pop by Tobin Wines for cellar door tastings. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Take advantage of the town’s excellent glamping stay, Alure Stanthorpe , by spending the night.

a couple sitting while admiring the scenic landscape at Alure Stanthorpe — Hit refresh with a relaxing glamping stay at Alure Stanthorpe. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

It’s nothing but misty mountains and cattle-dotted farmscapes so prepare to unwind amid one heck of a backdrop.

a couple relaxing in a tub at Alure Stanthorpe — Soak in the outdoor tub at sundown. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Stop 6: Brisbane

You made it all the way to Brisbane, the buzzing Queensland capital. From riverfront dining and laneway bars to world-class art galleries and breathtaking nature exploration, the city has evolved into one of Australia’s most exciting destinations.

a couple dining at Howard Smith Wharves — Nothing beats riverfront dining at Howard Smith Wharves. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Don’t miss Howard Smith Wharves, one of Brisbane’s best entertainment precincts scattered with killer bars and restaurants, plus one of the best breweries in the country.

a couple drinking beer by the Story Bridge at Howard Smith Wharves — Drink by the river with dazzling views of the Story Bridge. (Image: Tourism Australia)

As for a comfy bed to help you recharge overused batteries, you’re spoilt for accommodation options. Think plush five-star hotels, achingly cool boutique hotels and one of the world’s highly acclaimed urban oasis’.

a couple relaxing on a sunlounger at Howard Smith Wharves — Soak up waterfront views on a sun lounger. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Heading the other direction? Here are the stops you should make when driving from Brisbane to Sydney.

Explore some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines on this epic route.

This scenic, 1800-kilometre Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip takes in some of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the wildlife on Bribie Island to the rainforests of Far North Queensland. Our advice? Slow it down, take your time and really get to know this part of Australia.

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

Wake up in the luxurious Sofitel Brisbane Central , enjoy a hot buffet breakfast and a swim in the outdoor pool before hitting the road to travel north. Take the exit to Bribie Island to view the abundant wildlife.

aerial view of bribie island — Enjoy the beauty and animals of Bribie Island. (Image: TEQ)

In the afternoon, check into Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas hidden near Noosa National Park and spend the afternoon relaxing at the luxury Aqua Day Spa. Daredevils can book a seat on an Ocean View Helicopters tour and experience the adrenaline of exploring the Glasshouse Mountains from the air.

Before dinner, head to the Original Eumundi Markets just 25 minutes away or explore the nearby trails in the national park. For dinner, book a table at Park & Cove located just near your hotel and feast on a locally-sourced menu that changes with the seasons.

table spread at Park & Cove Novotel Sunshine Coast — Refuel at Park & Cove.

Day 2: Noosa to Bundaberg

Wake up to sounds of the rainforest outside your window and take the opportunity for a quick swim before you dive into a freshly cooked buffet breakfast at Park & Cove. After breakfast and an expertly brewed coffee, stroll down the hill and spend the morning shopping along Hastings Street in the various boutiques, or hire a kayak or surfboard and conquer the waves.

After lunch, head north for the three-hour drive to historic Bundaberg . If you feel like feeding a kangaroo or wallaby, visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary . Once in Bundy, head to Spitter’s Farm just outside of town. This 160-acre property offers a unique experience in their deluxe glamping safari tents, where you can listen to the cows mooing as the sun sets.

baby kangaroo at australian wildlife Sanctuary — Say hello to the adorable creatures of Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Jewels Lynch)

Day 3: Bundaberg to Rockhampton

Before getting back on the road, take time to visit the many museums, and, of course, the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour. Then head to the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton.

Although, ‘Rocky’ is surrounded by beef cattle farms, your first stop should be to the impressive Rockhampton Museum of Art , which features an art collection valued at over $16 million. Rest your head at the centrally-located Mercure Rockhampton overlooking the mighty Fitzroy River. Grab a quick swim in their outdoor pool before enjoying a steak at their in-house restaurant.

Day 4: Rockhampton to Mackay

Grab a strong coffee at your hotel and drive the short distance to the nearby Capricorn Caves for a morning tour of these natural limestone beauties. Then hit the road for the four-hour drive to Mackay.

Reward yourself with a swim in the large, resort-style pool at the Mantra Mackay . Overlooking the marina, it’s the perfect location from which to explore the city, before enjoying a sundowner and dinner at the popular Latitude 21 on the hotel terrace.

woman exploring the Capricorn Caves in queensland — Explore the Capricorn Caves. (Image: TEQ)

Day 6: Mackay to Townsville

Grab your breakfast to go, then head just out of town to Finch Hatton Gorge. Here, spend the morning ziplining 25 metres above the rainforest floor with Forest Flying . Head to Airlie Beach for lunch and a swim in the famous Airlie Beach Lagoon , before heading north to Townsville.

Hop on a 20-minute ferry – they leave regularly – and check into the stunning Peppers Blue on Blue Resort . Spend the evening swimming in their two pools with views across the private marina to Mount Cook National Park, before feasting on fresh seafood at their on-site restaurant, Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.

aerial view of beach at Airlie Beach queensland — Dive into the crystal clear waters around Airlie Beach. (Image: TEQ)

Day 7: Townsville to Cairns

After a morning swim on one of Magnetic Island’s beautiful beaches, hop back on the ferry and travel north to the sleepy Mission Beach for lunch. You’ll be sandwiched by rainforest on one side, and the beach on the other.

Continue on to Cairns and check in at the centrally-located Novotel Cairns Oasis, where the lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar alone is worth the visit. Or continue north for 25 minutes to the coastal village of Palm Cove.

Once there it’s a tough choice between the luxurious, five-star Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple, or the beautifully designed Peppers Beach Club and Spa Palm Cove , where the pool has its very own beach.

two people in deck chairs by Novotel Cairns Oasis' lagoon-style pool — Relax by Novotel Cairns Oasis’ lagoon-style pool.

Day 8: To Port Douglas

No matter where you spent the night, your journey to Port Douglas will be one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever experience. Following the coastline, travel past champagne-coloured beaches, offshore islands and submerged reefs, before rolling into town at Port Douglas.

Although you’ll be spoilt for choice with hotels, two of the best are Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, which is closer to town (think stunning pool and walking distance to Macrossan Street) and the famous, five-star Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa , located a little further down the beach. If the 3000-metre-squared lagoon-style pool isn’t enough at this hotel, you’ll also find the exclusive Vie Spa and popular restaurant, Aluco Restaurant & Bar , widely known as being one of the finest restaurants in Port Douglas.

aerial view of pool at Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple — Revive from road-tripping in one of the best pools in Port Douglas.

Start planning your Queensland adventure at all.com.

Every stop you should make on a Sydney to Brisbane drive