Winter isn’t on the way — it’s well and truly here. With heaters blasting and umbrellas constantly at the ready, Sydney’s chillier months can feel like a slog. And while the skies might be moody, that doesn’t mean your plans have to be. Swapping sunny afternoons for indoor alternatives has its challenges, we'll admit, but the chillier season still has plenty to offer. Rather than grumble through the cold, we're leaning in — with a few trusty tricks up my sleeve. So, before the next cold front rolls in, here’s our go-to guide for making the most of winter in Sydney.
Get on the reformer
If you ask the RUSSH team, Pilates is a true winter lifesaver. If you're searching for a workout that eases the restlessness of being stuck inside, without requiring long recover days, Pilates delivers. Gentle on the joints, but surprisingly tough on the core, a pilates class is low-impact, energising, and ideal for staying warm and active during the colder months. Here’s where to find a studio near you.
Feed the soul
Why not cook to ward off the chill? Dial up the heartiness with these soup recipes, or try your hand at some meditative winter-warmers, from succulent dim sum, to poached wine pears.
Tap into your creative side
With the 2025 Archibald, Wynne, and Sulman prizes now unveiled, a visit to the Art Gallery of NSW is the perfect time to pass a winter weekend. All three exhibitions — Archibald, Wynne and Sulman — are on display from 10 May to 17 August.
There's also plenty of smaller, independent exhibitions taking place across the city this winter. We've rounded them up, so you can keep up to date with everything happening in June across the city.
Explore a new restaurant
It's time to be fearless. So what if it's pouring down on the outside? Our foodie hearts can cut through fire and ice. This winter, make your way through our list of the newest and buzziest restaurants opening their doors in Sydney (and Melbourne) this year. For any last-minute dining plans, rally your boldest and try you luck at a last-minute reservation at one of these spots.
Pamper yourself
What better season than now to pamper our bodies, chapped from the cold? Carve out some time for self care, and warm up from the inside out at one of these wellness centres dotted across Sydney.
Get lost in a good book
We'll admit it: we're in the business of unfinished books. What better time than now to pick up on that dog-eared page that's been gathering dust on your shelf? If you're on the hunt for a new novel, we've got that too. These are the very best page-turners to come out of 2025, and here's our pick of literature to get you flush under the collar.
Throw a dinner party
Winter is the perfect time to open your homes. Gather your nearest and dearest for a dinner party that lasts long into the night -- no special occasion required. Not sure where to start? We've curated an edit of entertaining essentials, whether you're a seasoned hostess, or dinner party novice.
Schedule a binge-watching session
Can't be fussed leaving the house? We very well can't blame you. If you'd like an activity for your home screen, we've got you covered on that too. For your hiberanting pleasure, dig into our extensive list of the best movies of all time, or catch up on everything new and noteworthy coming to Netflix this month.
Escape the city
While our usual beach holidays might look a little different during the cooler months, there's still plenty of Sydney to explore — and you don't need to get on a plane or drive for hours to do it. Scratch your travel itch with seven winter weekend getaways you can drive to from Sydney.
