These two Aussie neighbourhoods made the world's top 10 cool list

Time Out’s list of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world for 2024 has highlighted the street-cred of two Australian suburbs.

Innovative restaurants, showstopping street art, hidden bars, historic charm, a diverse mix of cultures—what actually makes a neighbourhood “cool”? Well according to Time Out’s yearly list, “They’re places that reflect the very best of their cities.” The publication has just released its list of the coolest neighbours for 2024, and two Aussie suburbs have made the top 10—more than any other country—beating trendy major cities such as Paris, Berlin, and Tokyo.

Time Out’s coolest neighbourhoods list

Every year Time Out quizzes its global network of travel writers and editors to vote on the neighbourhoods they believe capture the essence of cool. According to the team the list takes into consideration “culture, community spirit, nightlife, food and drink – all condensed in one vibey, walkable district.” Last year, Laureles in Medellín, Colombia was crowned the top spot.

City view of the vibrant neighbourhood Laureles. (Image: Getty Images)

Taking out the top spot in this year’s list is the artistic district of Notre-Dame du Mont in Marseille, France. The French attitude toward life—often seen as fashionable and laid-back—is exemplified here. This rebellious, art-led hub in the sixth arrondissement features colourful streets swathed in graffiti, a thriving nightlife, a vibrant dining scene, a charming blend of historic architecture, and lively community life. The suburb was praised by Time Out for having the “jovial, laidback feel of a local market.”

Notre-Dame du Mont is adorned in colourful graffiti. (Image: Flickr/Luca Di Gaetano)

No.2 takes us to culturally rich Morocco, with Mers Sultan in Casablanca exuding its allure. A mix of urban energy and creative charm, Mers Sultan is known for its Art Deco architecture, lively street markets, youthful spirit, and growing arts scene.

Which Aussie neighbourhoods made the list

Last year, Brunswick East in Melbourne came in at no.6 on the list and Enmore in Sydney took out the 17th spot. This year Sydney and Melbourne suburbs have once again featured at the top of the list.

Coming in at no.7 is the much-loved Chippendale in Sydney. Once a semi-industrial hub, the inner-city suburb is now a buzzing food and arts centre that combines convenience, cultural diversity, and community.

Chippendale features a mix of historic and modern architecture. (Image: Destination NSW)

Old warehouses and historic buildings have been sensitively transformed into art galleries such as the contemporary White Rabbit Gallery, or design-led boutique hotels like The Old Clare Hotel. Popular restaurants like Ester reside here alongside Asian hawker fare at Spice Ally and the multi-level late-night haunt The Abercrombie. 

The White Rabbit Gallery showcases Chinese contemporary art. (Image: Destination NSW)

Melbourne’s Windsor also made the list, coming in at no.10. For a long time this charming suburb has been overlooked due to neighbouring suburbs Prahran and South Yarra, but the inner suburb is gaining attention for its dynamic and growing cultural scene. Victorian terraces, vintage stores, cool cafes and bars make it a fascinating place to live and socialise. Foodies are spoilt for choice with venues like Japanese restaurant Mr Miyagi and Italian restaurant Studio Amaro, while film lovers can enjoy everything from arthouse films to cult classics at the charming Art Deco Astor Theatre.

(Image: Visit Victoria)

Planning a holiday soon? Be inspired by this year’s list of the coolest suburbs.

Time Out’s list of the top 10 coolest neighbourhoods in the world

1. Notre-Dame du Mont, Marseille, France
2. Mers Sultan, Casablanca, Morocco
3. Pererenan, Bali, Indonesia
4. Seongsu-dong, Seoul, South Korea
5. Kerns, Portland, USA
6. Stokes Croft & St Paul’s, Bristol, UK
7. Chippendale, Sydney, Australia
8. Principe Real, Lisbon, Portugal
9. Glória, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
10. Windsor, Melbourne, Australia