We know, it's pretty big over here, but if you just so happen to be doing a romp across our gorgeous country, you should probably know the best bars to go with your adventure. From unmissable Sydney spots by the water to the secret Brisbane bars where whisky is king, check out our recommendations for the best bars in Australia.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 25th April 2025
Flight Club is the quirky activity bar with fairground-style interiors to bring a nostalgic edge to the classic game of darts. But that's not all, as the high-tech games here offer something a little different for your group outing.
Alcotraz Melbourne: Cell Block Five-Nine-Two is the perfect night out for anyone that loves quirky activities. Located right in the heart of Melbourne, this prison-themed cocktail bar promises live actors, orange jumpsuits and cells to lock you up in.
You'll be given the task of hiding contraband, and swapping it for four bespoke cocktails made by the inmate bartenders. Corrupt guards will help you out, but be sure to avoid the warden.
Not just one of the slickest bars in Brisbane, Savile Row over in Fortitude Valley also boasts one of the most well-stocked bars around. Considering the shelves are stacked with over 750 spirits, you can expect all kinds of cocktails to excite and ignite the senses.
A nightclub and late-night bar in Fremantle, Metropolis is the Perth mainstay with an elevated DJ booth, state-of-the-art sound system and a range of eclectic events. Whether electronic, rock, pop, or hip hop is your music of choice, there's something here for you.
Forrester's is a real stalwart in Sydney's bar scene having served the Surry Hills community for over 100 years. This friendly local dishes up a seasonal menu of organic dishes and freshly poured Aussie pints, with a packed event schedule of trivia nights, stand-up comedy and food deals.
It's all flaming cocktails and tropical shirts over at Flamingos Tiki Bar in Cairns. This boozy oasis has been decked out with neon signs and pretty murals, and is a pretty little spot to try rums from all over the world alongside quirky mixes served in exotic vessels.
Identifiable by its striking beer drums, 4 Pines Truck Bar is one of the coolest places to drink in Sydney. The bar itself is built into a pickup truck, featuring a full range of core beers and rotating guests, all of which come paired with a menu of mouthwatering stacked burgers.
Not only is Coogee Pavilion darn beautiful to look at, but it's also throwing some of the best parties in Sydney. One of Australia's top bars, this sprawling venue is keeping partygoers entertained with live music, club nights and top-tier drinks, all while overlooking pristine white beaches.
Over at Wildflower Gin in Burleigh, you can not only taste their award-winning spirits but you can also make your own. With the help of their expert distillers, you'll get to concoct your own bottle using over 50 various botanicals.
Giving you old school speakeasy vibes with its mahogany hues, leather seating and an entire wall of spirits, Death and Taxes is one of the best bars in Brisbane. Boasting an impressive collection of over 100 bottles, this bar whips up innovative mixes with unmatched finesse.
When it comes to the top Australian bars, Shady Pines Saloon is up there with the finest. Tucked away behind a secret door, this underground Sydney speakeasy comes decked out in American-style knick-knacks, with whiskey cocktails and a rock 'n' roll soundtrack to match.
One of the best bars in Sydney, Ivy Pool Club is a vibrant party palace that's always bursting at the seams when summer rolls around. Book a private cabana, soak up the colourful surroundings and enjoy a holiday at home with cocktails, live DJs and fresh pizza.
Found on the picturesque shores of Bondi Beach, Icebergs Dining Room and Bar is one of Australia's most jaw-dropping bars. Boasting panoramic views and an outdoor pool on the shoreline, this stunning spot provides post-swim meals of fresh seafood and handcrafted tipples.
This swoon-worthy bar in Melbourne lives up to its name with sexy red neon lighting, luxurious leather booths and a jukebox soundtrack. When you're not scanning through the menu of signature cocktails? You can tuck into a curated choice of Italian bites before a big night out.
