Hero image courtesy of QT Gold Coast

Each year, as the weather begins to cool down, our socials seem to do exactly the opposite – heating up as the European summer starts to flood our feeds. 

If you’re not one of the lucky ones jet-setting internationally, it’s easy for FOMO (fear of missing out) to creep in.

We’ve teamed up with Newcastle Airport to bring you the best Queensland alternatives that will see you enjoying the laid-back charm of Australia with the vibrant energy of a European experience – basking in the sunshine and inspiring some serious vacay-envy amongst your nearest and dearest this winter, minus the long-haul flights and dreaded drive down the M1.

Cairns – A taste of Spain and Croatia

Flight time from Newcastle: 2 hours, 50 minutes direct
Book now with Jetstar

If you’ve been dreaming of the romance of Spain and the natural beauty of Croatia, then Cairns is the ideal Queensland destination for you.  

Things to do

Step into a fairytale realm at Paronella Park. Wander through lush gardens, admire the Spanish-inspired architecture, and learn about the captivating love story behind this unique heritage site.

Channel your inner adventurer with an experience akin to Croatia’s famous Krka National Park as you explore the waterfalls around Cairns. Dive into the refreshing waters of the Crystal Cascades, Babinda Boulders, Josephine Falls, and Emerald Creek Falls and embrace the natural exhilaration.

Eat & drink

Savour authentic Spanish tapas paired perfectly with fine wines at Seabean. Indulge in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours at Rocco, the city’s highest rooftop bar and restaurant, or tropical tastes inspired by European seaside tavernas at the Calypso Club. Delight your palate with even more Mediterranean, featuring fresh seafood, vibrant salads, and succulent meats at Piato, and the menu at Flynn’s – full of regional, seasonal produce accompanied by an extensive Italian wine list.

Stay

When it’s time to hit the hay, extend your European-inspired holiday in a private villa surrounded by lush gardens at Villa San Michele, relax in five-star luxury at Crystalbrook Riley, or stay at the centre of all the action in the heart of Cairns at Crystalbrook Flynn.

Brisbane – Discover the best of European fusion

Flight time from Newcastle: 1 hour, 15 minutes direct
Book now with Jetstar, Qantas, or Virgin Australia

Brisbane seamlessly blends European-style architecture with a vibrant cultural scene, evocative of iconic European river cities like Prague, Paris, London and Bilbao. 

Things to do

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Brisbane River, soaking in panoramic views and a cosmopolitan atmosphere akin to the many iconic riverside walks throughout Europe. Get a taste of the local produce at Brisbane City Markets, reminiscent of the bustling Borough Market in London.

Discover a treasure trove of stylish boutiques, trendy cafes, and hidden laneways along James Street in Fortitude Valley before escaping into the lush oasis of Brisbane Botanic Gardens.

Don’t leave without immersing yourself in Brisbane’s vibrant art scene with street art, galleries, and cultural landmarks like the Brisbane Powerhouse and QAGOMA.

Eat & drink

The first stop on any journey to Brisbane for food and drink is the riverside dining precinct at Howard Smith Wharves. Drop into Felons Barrel Hall and experience its German beer hall-inspired space; soak up the overwater vibes at Mr Percivals; or dive into an Italian feast at Ciao Papi.

Check out more in the Brisbane culinary scene and dine in a historic bistro setting at Rothwelll’s Bar and Grill; enjoy a trendy Italian trattoria experience at Biànca Restaurant and taste the best of Greek cuisine at Hellenika, inside The Calile Hotel.

For something extra special, book a table at Queensland’s most-awarded French Restaurant, Montrachet, or treat yourself to artisanal pastries and bread reminiscent of Parisian boulangeries at King Street Bakery.  

Stay 

Accommodation offerings in Brisbane are bountiful. Enjoy an urban luxury retreat at The Calile Hotel, a cosmopolitan riverfront sanctuary at Crystalbrook Vincent, or the boutique charm of Spicers Balfour.

Gold Coast – A touch of European coastal glamour

Flight time from Newcastle Airport: 1 hour, 5 minutes direct
Book now with Jetstar

For those seeking European beach club vibes and coastal luxury, the Gold Coast offers a taste of the glamourous jet-setting life.

Things to do

Head out to the hinterland to be transported to Provence, southern France, at the Kooroomba Vineyards and Lavender Farm, or discover hidden swimming holes and rock pools including the Currumbin Rock Pools and Cougal Cascades.

Escape from the everyday hustle of holidays to relax and rejuvenate. Swap Szechenya Baths, Budapest for one of the Gold Coast’s many thermal bathing spots – take your pick from Greenhouse the Bathhouse, Soak Bathhouse or Native State. Or ride the waves and embrace the Gold Coast's surf culture just like you would along Portugal’s vibrant coastline.

Eat & drink

Soak up European beach club vibes with seaside dining, refreshing cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere at Le Luna Beach Club, or delight in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at The Tropic and Maman Bar & Kitchen in Burleigh Heads. Drop by the neighbourhood wine bar, Paloma, for a pre-dinner tipple.

Spritz it up opposite the beach at Tommy’s Italian, escape to a European-inspired oasis at Hyde Paradiso or indulge in modern-Australian cuisine in a chic setting that captures the essence of European dining at Restaurant Labart.

Stay

Dive into luxury accommodation at QT Gold Coast, with a stunning pool area reminiscent of Saint-Tropez, go all out with a stay at the exclusive Rolling Seas Billinga, or keep it simple at the Cheshire Cat Motel with its very Instagrammable Tuscan-inspired plunge pool.

Europe might be calling this winter, but so is Queensland! 

With over 110 Queensland flights a week, Newcastle Airport is your gateway to a quick and easy Europe-inspired getaway, with direct connections to Cairns, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast. To book your flights and airport parking, visit the Newcastle Airport website. Queensland is calling – fly the Newy way!