What makes the perfect weekend getaway?

There's no question you deserve a weekend getaway. The only matter to settle is how you'll make the most of one.When you've only got two days – three if you're lucky – planning the perfect getaway becomes a matter of quality above all else. And a little forward thinking.So, if you're looking to have a good time without having a long time to spare, here are four simple steps for making the most of a trip before Monday comes around.Step one: consider the 'staycation'If you live in an Australian capital city, you're lucky enough to likely have bush, beach and bustling cities within an hour each way, no matter where you're based.If you're wanting a weekend away, the endless diversity of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth are sure to have something for you. The food, culture, entertainment and attractions are world class, and always changing, meaning you can make the most of it again and again.Taking advantage of your city is the number one secret to a perfect getaway. There's minimal travel time, a relative familiarity and it'll leave you with a deeper appreciation of the place you already live in.Step two: choose your hotelPick the perfect stay and let that shape your itinerary for the weekend. A great hotel is a destination in its own right, after all. And because you're only staying for two nights, you have all the more reason to loosen the purse strings and make it an extra special one.Favourites include Manly Pacific Sydney MGallery, where you can lap up unbeatable views of world-famous Manly beach. Whether you're looking to live out a beachside romance or are simply seeking a change of pace where you can stretch out your days, this is the spot.Or from Adelaide, drive one hour north and find Novotel Barossa Valley Resort – conveniently placed adjacent to Tanunda Pines Golf Course should you fancy a swing. Set in the heart of the Barossa Valley Wine Region, enjoy historic winery tours, farmers markets, cycling tracks and even nearby bushwalking tracks.But then again, with so many excellent facilities onsite – think outdoor play areas for the kids, a pool, gym, volleyball and basketball courts – guests staying at Novotel Barossa Valley Resort may never want to leave.https://www.instagram.com/p/C8Qz6oBym0H/?utm_source=ig_embed&Then there's the Novotel Swan Valley Vines Resort at half an hour outside of Perth, serving as a nice gateway to the city's wine region. If you wanted to stay more central, Tribe Perth Kings Park puts you on the doorstep of the endlessly fascinating, and endlessly explorable, city park.Back to the east coast for something more metropolitan, the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins is a showstopper in one of the most enviable locations in the city. So is Peppers Broadbeach, soaring high above Broadbeach's premier shopping and dining precinct – perfect for those seeking luxury, sophistication and relaxation.And on it goes. Find the most spectacular stay in your city and the rest will fall into place.Step three: plan your mealsTrying different foods at new restaurants is undoubtedly a huge part of the travel experience – perhaps one of the best parts, really. And while it may seem a bit over the top to 'plan' your meals, two days away means six opportunities to sample something new.Use a mixture of Google reviews, recommendation websites and social media to find options that pique your interest and write a list. A mixture of 'high' and 'low' will keep things interesting and take you to new places. Think: bakeries, fine dining and micro-breweries. Don't forget to factor in your hotel's restaurant too.Another hot tip is to call ahead – speak to the staff at the hotel you've chosen to assist with restaurant recommendations. Worst case, it'll get you excited for the trip. Best case, there won't be a bad bite all weekend.Step four: prioritise your 'to-see' listFinally, what's a getaway without an out-of-the-ordinary experience?If you've opted for a hotel that situates you amongst nature, plan out a hike or day at the beach. If your hotel is more urban, look up 'what's on' lists to see if there are any concerts, plays, museum exhibitions, or special events happening during your stay. Additionally, make use of the hotel's concierge service for personalised recommendations on things to do in and around the area.Even if you're only interested in reading a book next to a body of water, at least make it a body of water you've never seen before. Like one of Sydney's 'hidden' beaches (Milk Beach, Chowder Bay, etc) or this mind-blowing pool at Shadow Play Melbourne by Peppers.You get the gist. Now get booking!Nature lovers, adventure seekers, food fanatics and culture enthusiasts, we can't wait to welcome ALL the travellers in you. Find your perfect stay on ALL.com