Melbourne Official Visitors Guide - Summer 2018/19

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

Melbourne Summer 2019

Love Laneways

Melbourne’s secret spaces

Holding Court The Australian Open comes to town

Coupons

Discounts for the city’s best experiences

14–27 JAN

Rethink History Experience Roger rewrite history at the Australian Open

9 Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Matthew Murphy

24 My Melbourne

with Fiona Sweetman 78 Dining & drinking hot spots

Inside 4

Welcome to Melbourne

6

What’s On

8

Melbourneʼs Summer of Fun

12 Discover our Laneways

14 Melbourne Laneways Map

16 Neighbourhood Watch

18

Itineraries

26

See & Do

53

Shop

69

Eat & Drink

80 Reader Survey Competition

81

Arts & Culture

92

Neighbourhoods

98 Melbourne Neighbourhoods Map

106 Regional Victoria

113 V/ Line Network Map 114 Regional Victoria Map

123 Useful Information

131 Melbourne Tram Network Map

132 Victorian Train Network Map

136 Traveller Tips

Vertue Coffee Roasters, Carlton

18 Find the Melbourne

adventure for you

140 Frequently Asked Questions

142 Advertiser Index

143 Accommodation Index

144 Inner Melbourne Map

146 Melbourne City Map

149 Summer Coupons

3

Message from the Victorian Government

year to visit Victoria, Summer is the best time of does Victoria’s major as the weather heats up so events calendar. cultural capital, Melbourne As Australia’s sporting and events that brings of o tfoli por ting exci offers an rseas visitors to ove and thousands of interstate . our state delicious food and wine, From laid-back laneways to ns to lush parks and from vibrant cultural attractio rne is the hub for the bou Mel s, ape beautiful streetsc . best experiences this summer bourne is sure to have Whatever your tastes are, Mel mer season. sum this you something to excite

Message from the Lord Mayor Why just laze by the pool this summer when there is so much to do in the City of Melbourne?

From sunrise to sunset get out and enjoy our parks, gardens or the waterfront as Melbourne shine s in summer.

Our city buzzes with activity in Janu ary with the NGV Kids Summer Festival, the Aust ralian Open and the Midsumma Festival.

Make the most of the balmy nigh ts in February with Movies Under The Stars and the Chin ese New Year Festival.

Or simply cool down with a drink at one of our many rooftop bars or outdoor cafes.

Tag #melbmoment in your social media posts to share with your friends.

Sally Capp Lord Mayor

4

Welcome to

Melbourne Sport

Melbourne lives and breathes sport. A jam-packed calendar of high-profile sporting events runs year round, with spectators able to get up close to the action at our world-class arenas.

Shopping

Melbourne is a favourite destination for those with a passion for fashion. The city’s shopping precincts cater to all tastes and budgets with luxe designer boutiques, large department stores and local artisan markets.

Outdoors

Within the leafy city limits there are beautiful botanical gardens and public parks.

Explore Port Phillip Bay’s sheltered beaches, take a boat cruise on the Yarra River or follow a walking track along the water’s edge.

Welcome to Melbourne

Visitors to Melbourne are spoiled for choice with sporting spectacles, arts and culture attractions, stylish shopping, beautiful arcades and laneways, and picturesque public parks.

Food & Wine

Melbourne is renowned for its flair for food, acclaimed chefs and cool bar scene.

The city boasts more than 3,000 restaurants, cafes and bars representing about 75 different ethnic cuisines.

Arts & Culture

From grand theatres, museums and galleries to laneway street art and vibrant cultural festivals, Melbourne is the place to get your fix of art, design, music and live shows.

Bad Frankie, Fitzroy

5 5

What’s

on

School of Rock

Mandela My Life: The Exhibition

Festival of Sails, Geelong

On Now

Until 20 March (excluding 26 December)

Until 2 December

Queen Victoria Market w thenightmarket.com.au

State Theatre at Arts Centre Melbourne w evitathemusical.com.au

Until 28 April

14–16 December

The Big Design Market Royal Exhibition Building w thebigdesignmarket.com Until 23 December

Summer Night Market

Love Exhibition

From 5 December

EVITA

Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert

Santa’s Christmas Spectacular

Immigration Museum w museumsvictoria.com.au/ immigrationmuseum

Until 6 January

December

19 December – 27 January

From 2 December

Arts Centre Melbourne w peterpangoeswrong.com.au

Empire Theatre, Docklands w wonderlandjunior.com.au/events

Myer Christmas Windows Bourke Street Mall w myer.com.au

Until 17 February

School of Rock – The Musical

Her Majesty’s Theatre w au.schoolofrockthemusical.com Until 3 March

Mandela My Life: The Exhibition

Melbourne Museum w mandelamylifeexhibition.com

6

Escher X nendo | Between Two Worlds

Plenary at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre w mso.com.au/whats-on

Peter Pan Goes Wrong

NGV International w ngv.vic.gov.au

26–30 December

From 4 December

Melbourne Cricket Ground w cricket.com.au/tickets

Stomping Ground La Boca

Arts Centre Melbourne Forecourt w artscentremelbourne.com.au

Domain Boxing Day Test: Australia v India

31 December

New Year’s Eve

Various locations across Melbourne w nye.melbourne.vic.gov.au

Australian Open

January 2–12 January

Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus by Circa Fairfax Studio at Arts Centre Melbourne w artscentremelbourne.com.au

For more information on what’s happening in Melbourne whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au

26–28 January

Festival of Sails

Geelong Waterfront w festivalofsails.com.au 30 January – 3 February

Jayco Herald Sun Tour Various locations w heraldsuntour.com.au

14–27 January

Australian Open Melbourne Park w ausopen.com

From 16 January

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Princess Theatre w harrypottertheplay.com/au 19 January – 10 February

Midsumma Festival

Various locations across Melbourne w midsumma.org.au 24–27 January

Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race

Geelong, Barwon Heads & Torquay w cadelevansgreatoceanroadrace. com.au

February 5 February

Chinese New Year

Various locations across Melbourne w cnymelbourne.com.au 7–9 February

Six-Day Series Melbourne

Melbourne Arena w sixday.com/melbourne

22–24 February

MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship Phillip Island w worldsbk.com

From 23 February

Jersey Boys

Regent Theatre w jerseyboys.com.au

Looking Ahead 1–10 March

Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival Various locations w vamff.com.au

21–24 February

FIG International Apparatuses World Cup Series

Melbourne Arena w gymnasticsworldcup.com.au

7

Welcome to Melbourne

Chinese New Year Festival

Australian Open

Melbourne’s

SUMMER of FUN There’s so much to do at this time of year, when sport and culture get equal billing.

See the Greats

The best tennis players in the world arrive on our shores at the beginning of the year. First come the warm-up tournaments, including the Kooyong Classic (9–12 January), before everyone’s attention turns to the main event. The Australian Open (14–27 January) is the year’s first Grand Slam tournament and an amazing time to be in Melbourne, whether you’re spending lots of hours courtside or only have a passing interest.

Game, Set, Match

There are many ways to enjoy the almost carnival atmosphere of this incredible fortnight. Tickets are available to both day and night sessions on the main courts, or you could buy yourself a ground pass.

This budget-friendly option gets you entrance into Melbourne Park, where you can watch the action live on one of the outside courts, find a patch of grass in front of the big screens at Garden Square or Grand Slam Oval, or enjoy all the other entertainment options available.

8

Fun for Everyone

Kids love the Australian Open. There are adventure zones, ziplines and indoor play areas, as well as the chance to meet their favourite players at the Fan Zone.

If you’re past all that, there’s still plenty to excite.

When you’ve had enough tennis action, head to the AO Festival, where you can catch live music, ride the Ferris wheel, feed your hunger at the many outlets or hang out in the bars. w kooyongclassic.com.au w ausopen.com AO Live Stage

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Manuel Harlan

Halftime Harry The places to eat outdoors before, during and after the Cursed Child.

It could be the biggest theatre production Melbourne has ever witnessed. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (from 16 January) is set to thrill audiences of all ages. Presented at the Princess Theatre, the production, which runs for more than five hours in total, is designed to be viewed in a single day or on consecutive nights. This is the eighth story in the blockbuster series. Young Harry is now a grown-up. He’s married, has a son who is about to start at Hogwarts, and is an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic. Then… Well, you’ll just have to wait, since those who’ve seen it are encouraged to #keepthesecrets. Rest assured, whether you’re a Harry fan or newcomer, there’s much to love. w harrypottertheplay.com/au

Good Heavens

01 Good Heavens

If you’re looking for lunch before the matinee, tuck into the smoked brisket, pulled pork or fried eggplant sandwiches at this rooftop bar. w goodheavens.com.au

02 Siglo

This pretty rooftop, next door to the Princess Theatre, has a kitchen that serves up excellent bar snacks like rillettes, sausage rolls and polenta chips. w siglobar.com.au

03 Bomba Rooftop

The recently renovated outdoor area, with views of the Melbourne skyline, is perfect for a fix of tasty tapas. w bombabar.com.au

04 Arbory Bar & Eatery

There’s an excellent array of hearty dishes, share plates and burgers available all day and until late at this open-air eatery overlooking the Yarra River. w arbory.com.au

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Manuel Harlan

For more dining inspiration, see the Eat & Drink section on page 69

9

Welcome to Melbourne

Boy Wizard no More

Optical Illusions

Another blockbuster arrives at NGV International, with the opening of Escher X nendo | Between Two Worlds (from 2 December). This is the first major Australian exhibition to place the work of Dutch artist M.C. Escher in a ground-breaking immersive space created by Japanese design studio, nendo. The exhibition covers Escher’s entire career from 1916 to 1969, and includes 160 prints and drawings. w ngv.vic.gov.au

Stomping Ground La Boca

Peruse the Precinct

EVITA Jeff Busby

Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus Dylan Evans

10

NGV International is just part of Melbourne’s arts and culture precinct that includes Arts Centre Melbourne.

This summer it hosts Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s EVITA (from 5 December) and, to celebrate the spirit of Argentina, local brewery Stomping Ground and Asado by San Telmo are opening the pop-up Stomping Ground La Boca in the forecourt.

Returning for an encore performance after a sell-out first season is madcap musical Calamity Jane (12–23 December). For the smaller members of the family, book tickets for Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus (2–12 January), featuring amazing feats of daring from the Circa performers and a live accordion player. w artscentremelbourne.com.au

Pedal Pushing

Elite cyclists, along with families and everyday riders, take over a majestic stretch of road for the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race (24–27 January). This excellent weekend of action — in Geelong, Barwon Heads, Torquay and surrounds — combines scenic rides with fast-paced racing.

In The Know

Libby Birch Western Bulldogs AFLW player

w cadelevansgreatoceanroadrace.com.au

Sail Away

On the Australia Day long weekend (26–28 January), Festival of Sails sees hundreds of keel boats racing from Royal Geelong Yacht Club along the coast of the Bellarine Peninsula. You don’t have to be on the water to enjoy the action — there’s also the huge Waterfront Festival, featuring the best local food, wine and entertainment. w festivalofsails.com.au

Here are some of Libby’s favourite places.

Restaurant

Pellegrini’s has the best food and is a slice of Melbourne’s vibrant restaurant history.

Bar

There’s a variety of entertainment, from bowling to a ropes course, at Kingpin. You can have a lot of fun while enjoying cocktails and hearty snacks with friends.

Shop

You can get the latest and best sports and casual apparel and shoes at the best prices at Puma DFO South Wharf.

Event

Don’t miss any of the AFLW action at Whitten Oval during February. As well as a classic game of footy, there’ll be fireworks, giveaways, free rides, food stalls and music.

Place

No matter how many times I go there, I can never get over the feeling a visit to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) brings. It has to be one of the best stadiums in the world.

Connect with the Western Bulldogs AFLW team at: /bulldogsw @bulldogsw Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race

11

Welcome to Melbourne

After winning the Australian Football League Womens (AFLW) premiership cup last year, Libby and her teammates are keen to get out there for the 2019 season (from 2 February). “We’re all really excited,” she says. “It will be our biggest challenge yet to go back to back, and we can’t wait to work harder and smarter heading into the 2019 season.”

Section 8

Discover our Laneways Melbourne’s tiny backstreets hide a multitude of culinary and cultural delights.

Cherry Bar

ACDC Lane

Named after one of Australia’s favourite rock bands, this laneway is, unsurprisingly, home to one of our finest music venues. First though, check out the street art and have dinner at Pastuso, which serves fine Peruvian cuisine, before hitting Cherry Bar for some live tunes until late into the evening. w pastuso.com.au w cherrybar.com.au

Tattersalls Lane

This place comes alive after dark. Hidden in the middle of Chinatown, it boasts Section 8, a graffiti-covered bar created from pallets and shipping containers and populated by hipsters who love the late-night DJs. Looming above it is loft-style Ferdydurke, with its classic cocktails, hotdog menu and banging tunes. w section8.com.au w ferdydurke.com.au

12

Word on the Street Henry, 41, from Beechworth

Welcome to Melbourne

It doesn’t look like much from Bourke Street, but Meyers Place holds some little gems.

Last time we visited, we had sunset cocktails at Loop Roof, then amazing Argentinian steaks and fish cooked on the parrilla — a charcoal grill — at San Telmo. w looprooftopbar.com.au w santelmo.com.au

ACDC Lane

Centre Place

Especially at lunchtime, this pedestrian-only thoroughfare linking Degraves Street and The Block Arcade bustles with life.

Hit tiny hole-in-the-wall ShanDong MaMa Mini for amazing Chinese dumplings or, later in the day, grab a drink upstairs at Hell’s Kitchen. There’s shopping, too, including the vintage-inspired, colourful clothing and accessories at Kinki Gerlinki. /shandongmama w hellskitchenmelbourne.com w kinkigerlinki.com.au

San Telm o

Hardware Lane

Stroll along this cobbled laneway, with its air of European sophistication, and you’ll be overwhelmed by the number of restaurants from which to choose.

Early in the day, The Hardware Société is a favourite for breakfast, with its menu dotted with French and Spanish influences. Later on, tuck into oysters, caviar and steak frites at French Saloon. w hardwaresociete.juisyfood.com w frenchsaloon.com

Hosier Lane

Those who’ve lived in Melbourne for years will remember when the walls here were plain. Now, people flock from around the world to check out the ever-evolving gallery of street art. While you’re there, check out one of the city’s evergreen restaurants, tapas bar MoVida — you can’t go past dishes like the hand-filleted anchovy and smoked tomato sorbet on a crouton or the Galician-style octopus served with kipfler potatoes and paprika. Sister venue Bar Tini is newer on the scene and emulates a Spanish bodega. w movida.com.au w bartini.com.au

13

LA TR OBE ST

Sniders Ln

Drewery Ln

E LI Z AB ETH ST

Finlay Av

239

Caledonian Ln

Driver Ln

Emporium Melbourne

Postal Ln

259 Somerset Pl

01

Warburton Ln Rankins Ln

Racing Club Ln

Niagara Ln

Hardware Ln Hardware Ln

Lt Bourke St

Goldie Pl

f /manchesterpress

352

Drewery Pl

Melbourne Central

LON SDA LE ST Q UE E N ST

Its casual industrial vibe feels welcoming, and the excellent coffee and filled bagels at this Rankins Lane cafe are the perfect pick-me-ups during a big day of shopping.

Hardware St

Lt Lonsdale St

01 Manchester Press

WI LLI AM ST

Knox Pl

Melbourne Central Station

Guildford Ln

Bourke St Mall

Block Arc

Union Ln Howey Pl

Equitable Pl

Dame Edna Pl

Presgrave

220 Manchester Ln

City Library

Scott Al

Centre Pl

57

02

Degraves St

342

Bligh Pl

Flinders Ln

Fulham Pl

COLLIN S ST

Bond St

Immigration Museum

Block Pl

Lt Collins St

Carson Pl

Royal Arcade

53

Market St

w soledevotion.com

The Walk Arc

The Causeway

Bank Pl

Looking for handcrafted shoes from around the world? At this independent boutique in Degraves Street, you can try on styles from John Fluevog, Trippen, Post Sole Studio and more.

McKillop St

02 Sole Devotion

151

BOURK E ST

Cathedral Ar

FLIN DE RS ST

14

Flinders St Station

E X H I B I TI O N ST

180

SWANSTON ST

S PRI NG ST

Laneways

R US S ELL ST

Albert Coates Ln

56

2

120

Windsor Pl

Consumer culture sits alongside Communist austerity at this hidden cocktail bar in Corrs Lane.

We prefer the plush booths to the upturned grenade crates, but it’s really your decision.

75

Alfred Pl

03 Berlin Bar

Meyers Pl

TRAMS

Melbourne Pl

Melbourne Town Hall

Parliament Station

Liverpool St

Punch Ln Crossley St

153

Cohen Pl

Chinese Museum

Market Ln

Paynes Pl

03

Croft Al

Corrs Ln Coverlid Pl

Waratah Pl

180

Smythe Ln

Russell Pl

Rainbow Al

La Trobe Pl

Chinatown

Bullens Ln

Heffernan Ln

Celestial Av

Tattersalls Ln

Greek Precinct

St Paul’s Cathedral

Federation Square

Duckboard Pl

Malthouse Ln

Rutledge Ln

ACDC Ln

George Pde

w berlinbar.com.au

Oliver Ln

r

Red Cape Ln

Hosier Ln

0

State Library Victoria

Regent Pl

e Pl

Melbourne

Bennetts Ln

l

3 minutes’ walk per block

15

Docklands

Neighbourhood Watch

Check out these precincts around the city with their own distinct personalities.

Southbank

Head to Southgate’s berth five late in the afternoon for Melbourne River Cruises’ two-hour Summer Twilight Cruise. Take in Docklands, the Royal Botanic Gardens and Herring Island from the Yarra River.

When you’re done, grab a table at BearBrass, a stylish waterfront restaurant and bar serving pizza and share plates. w melbcruises.com.au w bearbrass.com.au

Docklands

Greek Precinct

w berth.com.au w newquay.com.au

w hellenic.org.au

Start the day at Berth, overlooking the marina. The breakfast menu includes healthy options and more indulgent dishes, like buttermilk hotcakes with lemon curd. On a sunny day, take a stroll to enjoy the public artworks, including Callum Morton’s Monument Park, that dot NewQuay.

Melbourne’s Hellenic Museum, located in the former Royal Mint, has an agreement with Athens’ Benaki Museum, which means local visitors can see exhibitions like Against the Ruins.

These photographs of some of Ancient Greece’s greatest monuments were taken by Elli Sougioultzoglou in the 1920s.

North Melbourne and Kensington

Take on the zombie apocalypse at Zero Latency, where you can test out a number of multiplayer virtual-reality games. When the undead get the better of you, it’s time for a cold one at Henry St Brewhouse, where 10 taps pour freshly brewed craft beers. w zerolatencyvr.com w henrystbrewhouse.com.au

16

Berth, Docklands

A Day at South Wharf Enjoy a day of sunshine and river views during a walk from the city.

10am Kick the day off right

w citizencafebar.com.au

12pm Take a stroll along

Chinatown

Chinatown

Lygon Street

Its streets always seem to be busy, and it’s no wonder with all the excellent bars and restaurants you can access in just a few city blocks. Hit Shark Fin Inn at lunchtime for excellent yum cha then find out more about Australia’s Chinese community at the Chinese Museum.

Browse through the thousands of titles at Readings Books, before sitting down to pizza and pasta at La Spaghetteria Ristorante.

This being the hub of Melbourne’s Italian community, you’re not short of places for dessert. Don’t miss the hand-churned gelato at Pidapipò.

w sharkfin.com.au w chinesemuseum.com.au

w readings.com.au w laspaghetteria.com.au w pidapipo.com.au

Federation Square

w nationaltrust.org.au

2pm Keeping with the

theme, stop for burgers, a salad or something more substantial at outdoor diner The Boatbuilders Yard. w theboatbuildersyard com.au

3pm Find yourself a bargain at DFO South Wharf, where the labels include Kate Spade, Armani, Levi’s and Converse.

Find out about the history and architecture of Melbourne’s meeting place on one of the free daily tours that leave the Swanston Street Forecourt at 11am (except Sundays). You’ll be finished in time for lunch, so ask for a table on the terrace at Japanese restaurant Chocolate Buddha. Afterwards, drop by The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia for Polyverse (until 3 February), an exhibition featuring work by photographer Polly Borland. w fedsquare.com w chocolatebuddha.com.au w ngv.vic.gov.au

the waterfront to Polly Woodside, a historic barque that sailed between British and South American ports in the late 1800s before arriving in Melbourne in the 1940s.

w dfo.com.au/south-wharf

6pm Along the waterfront,

there’s an amazing collection of bars and restaurants featuring many styles of cuisine. For something fun, take a seat at BangPop with its hawker-style Thai food and themed cocktails. w bangpop.com.au Pidapipò, Carlton

17

Welcome to Melbourne

with zucchini and pumpkin fritters, sage buttered mushrooms or a stack of pancakes at Citizen Cafe Bar.

Royal Arcade Robert Blackburn

Itineraries Find the category that suits your style, then follow the suggestions for Melbourne’s best.

18

Itineraries

The Craft and Co, Collingwood

For Music Lovers

3pm Discover the history of contemporary local

music at Australian Music Vault. The best and brightest of the scene are captured in photographs, memorabilia and digital experiences at this free attraction.

6pm There’s no pretension about the menu at

New York-style Angus & Bon — just great steaks cooked on the wood grill. And the concise drinks list is spot on.

10pm Catch some of the world’s best jazz, soul and funk musicians at Bird’s Basement. This fully seated venue has great drinks and a relaxed atmosphere. w australianmusicvault.com.au w angusandbon.com.au w birdsbasement.com

Time with Teens

12.30pm Give them a serious thrill — book the Shark Dive Xtreme experience at SEA LIFE Melbourne, where they’ll go deep with sharks, rays and more.

2.30pm They’ll have worked up an appetite, so order

a couple of the authentic pizzas at Crown’s 400 Gradi.

4pm More thrills are on offer at Kingpin, where

there’s ten-pin bowling, laser tag and arcade games. w melbourneaquarium.com.au w 400gradi.com.au w kingpinbowling.com.au

SEA LIFE Melbourne

Foodie Fun

6pm Sign up to one of The Craft and Co’s two-hour classes that run most Wednesday evenings. From limoncello to mozzarella, beer brewing to brie making, you’ll be in foodie heaven when you learn how to create these taste sensations.

8.30pm Afterwards, catch a tram into the city to

Natural History Bar and Grill. The kitchen stays open until 11pm every night, so you can take your time perusing the menu. Think Cajun fish sandwiches, crab lasagne and peach charlotte, and you’re on your way to late-night satisfaction. w thecraftandco.com.au w naturalhistorybarandgrill.com.au

19

Collingwood Childrenʼs Farm

Arbory Bar & Eatery

Brunetti Gareth Sobey

A Day with Kids

A Weekend Escape

in Abbotsford, where hearty breakfasts and tiny temptations fill the family-friendly menu.

4pm Find a spot overlooking the Yarra River at

9am You’ll feel far out of the city at The Farm Cafe

10.30am Let them pat the rabbits, help milk the

cow and check the coop for eggs at the adjacent Collingwood Children’s Farm.

12.30pm There’s plenty to see at Melbourne

Museum, but be sure to take them to the museum’s Milarri Pond at 1.45pm when the short-finned eels are fed.

3pm Catch the tram to Flinders Lane where you can refuel with coffee (for you), hot chocolate (for them), slices of wood-fired pizza and tempting pastries at Italian cafe, Brunetti.

4.30pm Take a walk along the river to the playground at Birrarung Marr, where they can burn off any remaining energy on the slides, climbing features and swings. w farmcafe.com.au w farm.org.au w museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum w brunetti.com.au

20

3pm Check in to your hotel and ditch your bags.

Arbory Bar & Eatery. It’s a great place to relax with an Aperol spritz as the sun dips.

7pm New to the scene is Ciao Cielo in Port

Melbourne, where creative Italian dishes are served in an atmospheric space that was once the local courthouse.

11am After a Sunday sleep-in, catch the tram to

St Kilda. Stroll down Acland Street, checking out the shops and stopping at the European cake shops for a treat.

1pm Browse the stalls at St Kilda Esplanade Market, before strolling along the sand and sticking your feet in the sea. You might even want to have a swim before heading back to the hotel. w arbory.com.au w ciaocielo.com.au w stkildaesplanademarket.com.au State Library Victoria Cameron Murray

Uniquely Melbourne Australia’s first traffic lights were installed at the corner of Collins and Swanston Streets in 1912.

Accessible Melbourne 1.5 hours before sunrise Meet your pilot

and crew for an unforgettable sunrise hot air balloon ride over Melbourne’s city skyline courtesy of Global Ballooning. The company has easy-access baskets so that passengers with impaired mobility can also enjoy the best views in town.

Itineraries

9.30am(ish) Back on solid ground, head to South of Johnston, with its easily accessed outdoor area at the front, for a hearty breakfast of delicious pancakes, southern-style baked beans and more. w globalballooning.com.au w southofjohnston.com.au

The Block Arcade

For Serious Shopaholics

10am Start your day of retail therapy by ducking into Royal Arcade and The Block Arcade, both of which still boast 19th-century architectural features, as well as dozens of independent, quality stores.

12pm Make your way to Emporium Melbourne,

an upmarket mall bursting with international designers and local labels. It’s also home to one of the most popular foodie hot spots in the city centre.

Try Unabara Lobster & Oyster Bar for Japanese cuisine with a twist. w royalarcade.com.au w theblock.com.au w emporiummelbourne.com.au w unabara.com.au

ACMI

21

Calling Sports Lovers

2pm When it’s not hosting a cricket game (or football during the winter months), the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) welcomes visitors for its MCG Tour.

Your friendly guide will give you a glimpse behind the scenes at this grand stadium, taking in the dressing rooms, media boxes and more.

3.30pm Combine your MCG Tour with a visit to the

National Sports Museum, also located at the MCG. You can see some amazing memorabilia, as well as have fun in the interactive Game On! gallery.

Suitable for all ages. w mcg.org.au w nsm.org.au

Love a Laugh?

3pm Spend some time checking out the merchandise at Third Drawer Down, a concept shop where you’ll find kooky and unusual homewares and books.

5pm Have dinner in a rooftop train carriage covered in graffiti. At Easey’s, it’s all about burgers served with twisted cocktails.

8pm Nearly every night of the week, The Comics Lounge hosts the funniest comedians in the country, usually with two or three support acts. Be warned, you may laugh till your sides hurt.

MCG Tour

Easey’s, Collingwood

22

w thirddrawerdown.com w easeys.com.au w comicslounge.com.au

Break Free to Bellarine Surrounded by ocean and bay waters, this is the perfect place for a night away.

Itineraries

Screen Worlds, ACMI

Movie Buffs’ Action

12pm Check out what’s showing at one of the early

sessions at Hoyts Lux cinemas at Melbourne Central.

Recline in one of big leather armchairs and order your lunch from the in-cinema menu designed by celebrity chef Manu Feildel.

3pm Head to ACMI to check out the free Screen Worlds exhibition that explores the history of the moving image in film, television, video games and more.

6pm Stroll over to the Royal Botanic Gardens for

Moonlight Cinema. Each night, a new release, crowd favourite or cult classic is played beneath the stars.

There are bars and food vendors on site so you can sort out dinner. w hoyts.com.au w acmi.net.au w moonlight.com.au

Annie’s Provedore, Barwon Heads

10am Head off in your rental car to the

Bellarine Peninsula — about 90 minutes away.

12pm Stop at House of Jack Rabbit for a casual

lunch — lemon pepper squid, Middle Eastern lamb pie, onion bhaji burger — with water views.

3pm Check into Seahaven Village, your accommodation in Barwon Heads.

4pm Spend the afternoon strolling down the

main street, lined with cafes, homewares stores and unique boutiques.

6pm Head to the jetty for picture-perfect views and a seasonal seafood meal at At the Heads.

10am Taste the best Bellarine produce when you head to Annie’s Provedore for breakfast.

11am The Bellarine is home to a number of golf

courses, but for the two award-winning courses and great views try 13th Beach Golf Links. w visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

Third Drawer Down, Fitzroy

Want more regional Victoria highlights?

See page 106.

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Liaison Matt Irwin

My Melbourne

Fiona Sweetman Owner of Hidden Secrets Tours Fifteen years ago, Melbourne was a very different place. “When Fed Square and the GPO opened, it really started something,” says Fiona Sweetman, who has watched over all the changes. “ And MoVida — when it opened Hosier Lane was just a street.”

It was around that time she started her business, Hidden Secrets Tours. There was only Fiona and her co-founder acting as guides at the time, but now there are 12 and, during the summer, they offer up to 30 tours a week. “It’s about taking in information differently,” she responds when asked why the

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tours are perennially popular.

“When you’re walking, you see things, you smell things — the sensory element was what charmed me.”

Her original tour, Laneways and Arcades, is still the most popular, but new additions are being made all the time.

“Our busiest tour in terms of growth is the Progressive Degustation, which visits three restaurants in one night,” she says. The restaurants change all the time, but include trusted and much-loved eateries, like Izakaya Den and Harley House.

“Of course, this might be the only tour people do with us, so we also cover a lot of history and do a lot of storytelling about the city, too. For Hidden Secrets, it’s always about the tour first, then we layer on top of that.”

Fiona's Favourites Cafe

That’s such a mean question, but at the moment it’s Barbarella in the Block Arcade. It’s in a very touristy spot, but everybody who goes there is treated like a local. You can tuck yourself into a corner and the food is really simple.

Bar

Restaurant

I really love the tone of the space at Bar Saracen, which serves Middle Eastern food.

I don’t really do big dinners any more, but the other place I really like is Annam. You can have a full-on Vietnamese dinner there or you can just order a hot pot.

The new owners at Liaison now have all the third-wave stuff — pour-overs and the like. Plus, you can sit in the laneway, which is gorgeous.

Shop

How can you go past the Alpha 60 Chapter House store? It’s the Melbourne uniform, with the architectural shapes. I wear a lot of their clothes — it’s my go-to.

Hidden Gem

Rocksteady Records is a fantastic vinyl shop on the first floor of the art deco Mitchell House. Pat Monaghan and the team have in-stores, they’ve got vinyl and it’s a lovely contemporary space.

Event

The buzz in Melbourne when the Australian Open is on, even if you’re not at the tennis, is so cool. I can’t always get there, so I just go and watch a bit of it for free over in Fed Square.

Place

As a girl who wanted to be an architect, but never quite could, MPavilion tells such a beautiful story of using space.

You can go there for a weird bit of contemporary dance or you can listen to architects talk about ideas.

Treat

For me, a road trip is a bit of a guilty pleasure. I’d head towards the Yarra Valley and visit Four Pillars Gin. I like to hear why people do things and how they reinvent ideas. Road trips aren’t about pretty scenery for me, they’re about the people you meet.

Connect with Hidden Secrets: w hiddensecretstours.com @hidden_secrets_melb

Four Pillars Gin, Healesville

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Itineraries

It’s very celebrity of me, but I love Arlechin. You can have a gorgeous drink and a bite to eat. It’s not trying to be a brandnew idea — the Grossi family, who are present in the space, saw a gap and they resolved it.

Coffee

Melbourne Zoo, Parkville

See & Do Get ready for fun. There are so many attractions in Melbourne, you can go from dawn to dusk and well into the night.

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Melbourne Star

See & Do

Holey Moley Lucas Dawson

Take in the View

Take the lift to level 88 and be awestruck by the views in all directions at Eureka Skydeck.

Feeling brave? Add a ticket to step out in the suspended glass cube known as The Edge. Take in all the different parts of the city as you move slowly through the air on a circuit of Melbourne Star, the only giant observation wheel in the southern hemisphere.

It’s not high, but one of the best sunset views in Melbourne can be had halfway across the Princes Bridge, near Flinders Street Station. Rowers training on the river, silhouettes of nearby skyscrapers and the grand form of the MCG can all be seen. w eurekaskydeck.com.au w melbournestar.com

Eureka Skydeck

A Bit of Fun

Find out just who’s the best with ball (and drink) in hand at Strike Bowling Bar. There’s also the chance to test your aim and get your revenge on annoying mates with a game of laser tag.

Add an element of difficulty at Holey Moley, where cocktails and mini golf (finally) sit side by side. If you fancy a Pac-Man or Galaga challenge, get yourself to Playtime Crown, where there are more than 150 arcade games. w strikebowling.com.au w holeymoley.com.au w playtime.com.au

Strike Bowling Bar

Turn to page 80 to enter our reader survey for your chance to win a $250 VISA gift card.

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Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

Located in the city’s waterfront precinct of Docklands, Melbourne Star is the perfect way to start your Melbourne visit. Hear stories of Melbourne’s origins and its place in the world while taking in views stretching up to 40 kilometres.

Special offer: Present this ad for 20% off full-price general admission tickets Open: Daily; May–Aug, 11am to 7pm; Sep–Apr, 11am to 10pm; Christmas Day and ANZAC Day, 1pm to 10pm Last flight departs 30 minutes prior to closing time Last ticket sales 45 minutes prior to closing time Tram: Route 35, 70 or 86 to stop D11, free from CBD 101 Waterfront Way, Docklands t 03 8688 9688 w melbournestar.com Find us on:

Puffing Billy Railway

Loved by locals and visitors from around the world, Puffing Billy is Australiaʼs favourite steam train.

Experience the historic train as it travels through the Dandenong Ranges, located only one hour east of Melbourne.

Experiences include: + An authentic open-carriage train journey to Lakeside or Gembrook + Lunch in style in the lovingly restored dining carriages + Enjoy an evening of mystery and suspense during Murder on the Puffing Billy Express Tours are offered by all major day-tour operators.

Train: Belgrave Line to Belgrave Station Open: Daily except Christmas Day 1 Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave t 03 9757 0700 w puffingbilly.com.au Find us on:

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HHHHH HHHHH HHHHH HHHHH DAILY MAIL

THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

TRIPADVISOR

‘I LAUGHED. I CRIED. I ROCKED!’ JACK BLACK

BASED ON THE HILARIOUS HIT MOVIE NOW PLAYING HER MAJESTY’S THEATRE SchoolOfRockMusical.com.au

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

Melbourne’s award-winning wildlife park. Explore our bushland, meet endangered species, feed kangaroos, cuddle up to koalas and enjoy encounters with colourful birds, reptiles, dingoes and many other animals. Or come on a magical lantern-lit evening wildlife walk.

Close to Melbourne on the way to Phillip Island.

Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm 550 Tyabb-Tooradin Road, Pearcedale t 03 5978 7935 w moonlitsanctuary.com.au Find us on:

RAAF Museum Point Cook

See Australia’s Air Force in fascinating detail through thousands of memorabilia items, beautifully preserved aircraft and interactive flying displays, just 25 minutes from the CBD. Admission is free!

Open: Tue–Fri, 10am to 3pm; weekends and public holidays, 10am to 5pm (closed Mon, Christmas Day & Good Friday) RAAF Base Point Cook, Point Cook Road, Point Cook t 03 8348 6040 e raaf.museuminfo@defence.gov.au w airforce.gov.au/raafmuseum

Yarra River Cruises

Experience the true charm of Melbourne from the water. Enjoy a one- or two-hour cruise along the Yarra to Herring Island, Docklands or both. We offer live commentary, tea and coffee, a bar, a sun deck and friendly service. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

Tram: Route 1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 13 Train: To Flinders Street Station Open: Daily, 9.30am to 3.30pm Berth 4, Federation Wharf, Princes Walk, Melbourne t 03 8488 8880 | 0450 778 000 w yarrarivercruises.com.au

Sunny Ridge

For generations, Sunny Ridge has been a much-loved attraction in the hinterland region of Victoriaʼs Mornington Peninsula.

We invite you to pick your own strawberries (November to April), enjoy delicious desserts from our cafe and browse our retail emporium of local products and seasonal produce.

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm (Nov–Apr); Fri–Sun, school and public holidays, 11am to 4pm (May–Oct) 244 Shands Road, Main Ridge t 03 5989 4500 w sunnyridge.com.au Find us on:

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Melbourne Zoo, Parkville

Word on the Street

Luna Park, St Kilda

Aurora Spa, St Kilda

SEA LIFE Melbourne

Julie, 35, from Brighton Whenever friends bring their kids to town, we take them for a day out at Luna Park. The teenagers, especially, are in their element scaring themselves on the rollercoasters, ghost train and all the other carnival rides. w lunapark.com.au

Treat Yourself

Animals Aplenty

Stay relaxed while you’re on holiday by having someone else pamper you for an hour or two.

Miss Fox has a variety of spa treatments, and its central city location makes it easy to duck in and duck back out into the action. If you’re near St Kilda Beach, book the signature Kitya Karnu treatment at Aurora Spa. This total body experience — exfoliation, massage, facial and hair treatment — takes place in the warmth of a steam room, which helps to revive the system.

Feel as though you’re walking beneath the ocean at SEA LIFE Melbourne. Rays and sharks swim above guests in the oceanarium’s glass tunnel, but there’s also the chance to visit penguins, sea horses and a huge saltwater crocodile. Get more out of your visit to Melbourne Zoo by organising an Australian Wildlife Tour — you’ll have access to the zoo before opening hours, feed some kangaroos their breakfast, check out a wombat’s burrow and spot native birds in the aviary.

w missfox.com.au w auroraspa.com.au

w melbourneaquarium.com.au w zoo.org.au

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An experience above all else

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

10%

DISCOUNT Present this offer to receive 10% off entry*

The Southern Hemisphere’s highest viewing platform with the world’s only EDGE EXPERIENCE @eureka_skydeck #eurekaskydeck

Open Daily from 10am | eurekaskydeck.com.au

6130517005

*Not valid in conjunction with any other offer.

Valid for all ticket types. Not valid for the EDGE Experience.

Melbourne River Cruises Enjoy a sightseeing cruise and discover the best of what Melbourne has to offer.

+ Yarra Sightseeing Cruises: One- or two-hour cruises. Daily, 11am, 12.10pm, 1.30pm & 3pm.

S e), 48 or top 9 exit)

+ City and Williamstown Ferry: One-way or return trip. Daily, 10.30am, 12.30pm & 2.30pm. + Summer Twilight Cruise: Two-hour twilight cruise operating every Sunday evening 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Beverages can be purchased on board.

, 12pm to m to 2pm

Special offer: 20% discount on all cruises (show this ad) Open: Daily, 9.30am to 3.30pm Ticket Kiosk: Southbank Promenade Berth 3 (below Southgate food court) t 03 8610 2600 w melbcruises.com.au

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Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant

Enjoy one of our relaxing three-hour Yarra River dinner cruises when you book a place on our Cruising Restaurant. Cruise includes:

S e), 48 or top 9 exit)

+ Entrée tasting platter + Main course (one selection per guest) + Dessert platter

, 12pm to m to 2pm

+ Cheese tasting platter + Tea, coffee and chocolates + Premium selection of Victorian red, white and sparkling wines, beers and spirits + Port or liqueur

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Adult: $140 | Child (14–17): $90 | Child (2–13): $60 Special offer: 10% off booking. Use code SOM10.

Operating hours: Daily, 7.30pm to 10.30pm Office and booking hours: Daily, 9am to 5pm

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Southbank Lower Promenade Berth 4 t 03 8610 2600 w melbcruises.com.au

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RIDE SOME OF THE WORLD’S COOLEST RIDES THIS SUMMER. adventurepark.com.au

See & Do

MCG

Experience the National Sports Museum, guided tours of the ‘G, special events and more at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Summer is a sporting season in Melbourne, and there is plenty on offer at the mighty MCG.

Go behind the scenes on a guided MCG tour

Whether you’ve been to the MCG once or 100 times, you are sure to learn something new during this captivating experience. Step out onto the ground, see the player change rooms, the famous MCC Tram: Route 48 or 75 to stop 12; or route 70 to stop 7C Train: To Richmond or Jolimont Station National Sports Museum: Daily, 10am to 5pm MCG Tours: Daily, every 30 minutes between 10am to 3pm Alternative trading hours apply on event days.

Please visit our website for information.

Gate 3, MCG, Brunton Avenue, Richmond t 03 9657 8879 w mcg.org.au /melbournecricketground @mcg @mcg

Long Room and more with a knowledgeable guide.

In the midst of a bumper cricket season headlined by the traditional Boxing Day Test, there’s no better time to visit the MCG for a guided tour.

Be inspired at National Sports Museum The National Sports Museum is home to countless sports and offers something for everybody all year round. Highlights include Australia’s largest collection of sporting memorabilia featuring cricket, Australian Rules football, horse racing, Olympics, tennis, and the Game On! interactive gallery. This state-of-the- art space is sure to impress.

Test out the Experience Lab

Sport and digital technology collide at the Experience Lab, where visitors of all ages can trial exciting new experiences in this interactive gallery at the National Sports Museum. Running from 8 December until 3 February, the experience comes at no extra cost when visiting the museum.

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The top 10 — in no particular order — of the best things to do in Melbourne this season.

Unmissable

SUMMER EXPERIENCES 01 Fun After Dark

02 Flying High

w thenightmarket.com.au

w globalballooning.com.au

Every Wednesday night during summer, Queen Victoria Market is taken over by amazing food vendors, design and fashion stalls and entertainment from local and international acts for the Summer Night Market.

It’s an early start but well worth it when you’re soaring above the city on an adventure with Global Ballooning. You’ll see landmarks like the MCG and Eureka Tower, as well as get a different perspective on the city and suburbs.

The Tan

03 Stretch Your Legs

The Tan is an almost four-kilometre track that runs in a circuit along the Yarra River and around the Royal Botanic Gardens and Kings Domain. Walk, jog or run, but do it early when the day is still cool. w onlymelbourne.com.au/tan-track

04 Sail Away

Summer Night Market

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The best way to get to historic Williamstown is by floating down the Yarra River. Williamstown Ferries runs a number of services each day, so you can spend some time exploring before you head back. w williamstownferries.com.au

05 Music and Monkeys

Arrive before dusk to take a stroll around the Melbourne Zoo then get ready for some great live music in a picnic-style setting.

Zoo Twilights highlights include The Cat Empire and Aloe Blacc playing beneath the stars to help protect endangered species. w zootwilights.org.au

06 Get in the Swim

w adelphi.com.au

See & Do

Many people are familiar with the Adelphi rooftop pool. It’s glass bottom cantilevers out over the street below. But did you know you don’t have to stay there to enjoy it? For $35 you can get a day pass that lets you splash and sun yourself on the deck.

Collingwood Childrenʼs Farm

07 Talk to the Animals

Take the kids to Collingwood Children’s Farm to give them a taste of country life. They can help milk the cow, collect eggs and pat the rabbits, all while running around in the sunshine. w farm.org.au

08 On Two Wheels

Cover a lot of ground and learn all about the city on an easy, 4.5hour trip with Freddy’s Bike Tours.

Its All-in-One City Tour takes in the major landmarks, green spaces and hidden hipster hangouts. w freddysbiketours.com.au Federation Square

Adelphi

09 Greet the Day

On a few days a week, free tai chi, qigong and meditation classes are held early in the morning at Federation Square.

Check the online schedule to see what’s coming up. w fedsquare.com

10 The Magic Garden

Tucked into the Royal Botanic Gardens is the interactive Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden. They can dig, create, hide and generally get their hands dirty. There are plenty of elements, including a veggie patch, bamboo forest and wetland area. w rbg.vic.gov.au

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Port Phillip Ferries

Set the cruise control. Travel by ferry from Docklands to the Bellarine Peninsula for a scenic day trip or regional getaway. Enjoy local seafood, wineries and fabulous beaches.

Experience the licensed on-board cafe and free Wi-Fi, plus look out for dolphins along the journey. Perfect for families, groups or a summer adventure. Departing just across from Marvel Stadium and directly on the CBD free tram network.

Tram: Route 35, 70 or 75 to stop D3 Train: To Southern Cross Station Open: 365 days a year. Two return services per day.

131 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands t 03 9514 8959 w portphillipferries.com.au Find us on:

William Ricketts Sanctuary

Wander along the lush, fern-lined paths and discover more than 90 beautiful clay sculptures. Created by William Ricketts and inspired by the culture and traditions of the Pitjantjatjara and Arrernte Aboriginal people of Central Australia, the forest gallery is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the Dandenong Ranges. Entry is free.

Make the most of your day with a picnic nearby in the Alfred Nicholas Gardens or Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden.

Train: Belgrave Line to Upper Ferntree Gully Station Bus: Route 688 from Upper Ferntree Gully Station Open: Daily, 10am to 4.30pm (except Christmas Day) 1402 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, Mount Dandenong t 13 1963 w parks.vic.gov.au

MelbourneĘźs Luna Park

S e), 48 or top 9 exit)

Step through the mouth of Mr Moon to soak up the carnival atmosphere, rides and attractions that have entertained visitors for more than a century. Brave the heights of the Great Scenic Railway, the oldest operating wooden roller coaster of its kind in the world, or ride one of the 68 beautiful horses on our magical Carousel. Grab an unlimited ride ticket for all the spinning and twirling you could possibly want all day long.

, 12pm to m to 2pm

Tram: Route 16, 96 or 3a to stop 138 Open: School holidays, weekends & public holidays from 11am.

See website for more details.

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18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda t 03 9525 5033 w lunapark.com.au Find us on:

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Advertorial

See & Do

Lunch on the Rails Sail away from Melbourne to discover a unique dining experience on board a restored heritage train.

9.30am At Docklands, board one of Port Phillip Ferries’ vessels and get ready to cruise to the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula. You’ll travel in comfort and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery — watch out for dolphins. The journey to Portarlington takes about 75 minutes.

11am Once you’ve arrived, a representative from Fergos Bongo Tours will meet you for a transfer to Drysdale Station where The Q Train departs.

11.15am Enjoy a glass of wine at the Club Loco Bar, before the maitre d’ asks you to board one of The Q Train’s restored dining carriages.

11.30am Travel in style on The Q Train along

a heritage railway line to the picturesque seaside town of Queenscliff. A six-course seasonal degusation menu, featuring the finest local Bellarine produce and wine, beer and cider from the region, will be served. A vegetarian menu is also available.

Peer out of the window between courses to see views of Swan Bay and the surrounding landscape, or wander up to the Club Loco Bar Car to chat to other travellers and soak up the train’s rich history.

2.30pm You’ll return to Drysdale for transfers back to the 3.30pm ferry to Docklands.

5pm Arrive at Docklands, ready for another exciting night in Melbourne.

The Sail, Rail and Dine package with Q Train and Port Phillip Ferries starts at $169 per person. Bookings are essential via 0474 968 309 or the website below. w theqtrain.com.au

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Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is one of the world’s finest botanic gardens, and a leading destination for nature, culture and science. With two locations in Melbourne and Cranbourne, the Gardens is home to stunning horticulture displays and unique experiences.

Melbourne Gardens is an inner-city oasis with breathtaking landscapes and stunning plant collections. Journey into the ancestral lands of the local First Peoples, and be immersed in their rich culture on an Aboriginal Heritage Walk, or enjoy views of this spectacular 38-hectare garden in comfort with a ride on the Garden Explorer.

Tram: Route 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 19 Open: Daily, 7.30am until sunset Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne Gardens Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne t 03 9252 2429 w rbg.vic.gov.au Find us on:

Punting on the Lake

Take a guided boat tour in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne. Settle back in a wooden boat to enjoy unique views of one of the world’s finest gardens as our professional guide tells you about its history, environment, wildlife and plants. Your boat will take you around the islands and bays of the Ornamental Lake, passing the floating islands and showing you these beautiful gardens from a surprisingly different perspective.

S e), 48 or top 9 exit)

, 12pm to m to 2pm

Each punt seats a maximum of eight people.

Private boats and evening tours also available.

Visit our website for tour information, departure times and bookings.

Tram: Route 3/3a, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 19 Bus: Route 605 to Anderson Street

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Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm Evening tours available with advance booking

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Royal Botanic Gardens Gate A (corner Alexandra Avenue & Anderson Street), Melbourne t 0481 455 410 w puntingonthelake.com.au

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© 2018 Tynong North Operations Pty Ltd (Gumbuya World)

Victoria’s No.1 Theme Park

FOR A GREAT DAY OUT

Rides · Wildlife · Waterpark Only 50 mins from Melbourne!

Book online gumbuya.com.au

Victoria Police Museum

Visit the Victoria Police Museum and see the largest collection of Kelly Gang armour in Australia. View forensic evidence from some of Melbourne’s most notorious cases and learn how police fight crime.

Tram: Route 12, 96 or 109 to stop 124; or route 35 (free City Circle), 70 or 75 to stop D6 Train: To Southern Cross Station Open: Mon–Fri, 10am to 4pm World Trade Centre, 637 Flinders Street, Melbourne t 03 9247 6354 w policemuseum.vic.gov.au

Hophaus Euro Bar & Bistro NYE Festival

It has one of the best vantage points in Southbank overlooking the river, city and fireworks. Join us at Hophaus for our Europeaninspired NYE festival and enjoy our exclusive St-Germain Garden Bar with live music, DJs and food stations. Dining and cocktail party packages available. Book online or call now.

Shop MR5, Southgate Restaurant & Shopping Precinct, Southgate t 03 9682 5900 w hophaus.com.au

Road to Zero Experience

Be enthralled and surprised by the new, high-tech Road to Zero experience, exploring the future of transport, at Melbourne Museum. Entry is free to the world-first immersive experience created by the Transport Accident Commission. Get hands-on with the large-scale projections and interactive activities, including a simulated elevator drop demonstrating crash forces. You’ll come away informed and inspired about how we can achieve a future where zero lives are lost on the roads.

S e), 48 or top 9 exit)

, 12pm to m to 2pm

Tram: Route 86 or 96 to stop 11; or route 35 (free City Circle) to stop 9 Train: City Loop to Parliament Station Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm

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11 Nicholson Street, Carlton t 03 8341 7150 w roadtozero.vic.gov.au

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The Great Outdoors

See the city in full bloom at Royal Botanic Gardens, an oasis of more than 8,500 plant species arranged in themed gardens. You could spend all day there, so take a picnic basket. Set beside the Royal Exhibition Building, impressive Carlton Gardens, with water features and majestic landscaping, is a popular lunch spot for students and city workers. Further afield, stop and smell the offerings at Werribee’s Victoria State Rose Garden. There are more than 5,000 roses and many are in full bloom now proving a huge attraction for native birds. w rbg.vic.gov.au a Carlton Gardens, 1–111 Carlton Street, Carlton w vicstaterosegarden.com.au

Take to the Water

Make a splash exploring the sights of the city from the Yarra River on a Kayak Melbourne tour.

An option where you’re less likely to get damp is on a tour with Melbourne River Cruises. At this time of year, the hour-long River Gardens cruise is highly recommended. w kayakmelbourne.com.au w melbcruises.com.au

Carlton Gardens

Movies Under the Stars

Summer means all Melbourne’s outdoor cinemas are ready to roll. Grab a beer and pull up a deckchair for arthouse, classic and indie new releases at Rooftop Cinema, at the top of Curtin House. Spread out a picnic blanket on the Central Lawn at Royal Botanic Gardens for a night viewing the latest blockbusters and fan favourites at Moonlight Cinema. It’s all about location, location, location at the American Express Openair Cinema, held by the bay at St Kilda Sea Baths. w rooftopcinema.com.au w moonlight.com.au w openaircinemas.com.au Moonlight Cinema

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Snap Happy Want to show off your best holiday pics?

Here are the places to do it.

01 Shrine of Remembrance

IMAX Melbourne, Carlton

Stand upon the steps and you can look north, up the entire stretch of Swanston Street and St Kilda Road. Aim for straight lines and plenty of greenery. w shrine.org.au

Screens Big and Small

w imaxmelbourne.com.au w thornburypicturehouse.com.au

Slice of History

Built in 1755 in North Yorkshire, England, by the parents of Captain James Cook, Cooks’ Cottage was transported to Melbourne in 1934 and rebuilt in the Fitzroy Gardens. Visit to see interpretations of the explorer’s voyages. Between 1842 and 1929, Old Melbourne Gaol held the state’s worst prisoners and witnessed 133 hangings, including that of bushranger Ned Kelly. See historic artefacts and find out what it was like to be held here during the Watch House Experience.

02 Flinders Street Station

Stand on the diagonally opposite corner to the railway clocks, wait for the pedestrian light to change to green aaaand… snap!

03 St Kilda Pier

See & Do

Get an eyeful of the action at the city’s biggest screen — it’s 23 metres high! IMAX Melbourne screens family-friendly blockbusters and nature documentaries. New to the northern suburbs is Thornbury Picture House, a 57-seat independent cinema showing arthouse and cult movies in a transformed 1920s petrol station. The bar has Italian food, local beers and batch-brew Padre coffee.

At dusk, with a nice bit of cloud cover, you’re a good chance to score a winning pic looking over the water.

04 Brighton Bathing Boxes

These small, brightly coloured bathing boxes are stunning, especially when the summer sun is shining. Against the contrast of the sand and sky, they make for a colourful backdrop to any holiday snap.

w melbourne.vic.gov.au/cookscottage w oldmelbournegaol.com.au

Old Melbourne Gaol

Brighton Bathing Boxes

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Parliament House

Visit Victoria’s Parliament House, one of Australia’s oldest and most architecturally distinguished public buildings. Free guided tours are provided on non-sitting days, Monday to Friday. Groups of six or more must book. On sitting days, come and see Parliament in action.

Public tours: Non-sitting days, Mon–Fri, 9.30am; 10.30am; 11.30am; 1.30pm; 2.30pm & 3.30pm Express tours: 1pm & 4pm Spring Street, East Melbourne t 03 9651 8568 w parliament.vic.gov.au/visit

Arts Centre Melbourne Sunday Market

On Sundays from 10am to 4pm, more than 80 local artisans fill Arts Centre Melbourneʼs lawn to showcase their unique, handmade goods, ranging from arts and crafts to freshly made edible delicacies. Everything on offer is produced locally, making the market a real favourite for those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures.

Open: Sun, 10am to 4pm 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne t 1300 182 183 w artscentremelbourne.com.au

Arthurs Seat Eagle

Get ready to soar! Board a state-of-the-art gondola and fly over the state forest to the highest point of the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. Enjoy breathtaking views across the bay to the city in the safety and comfort of a contemporary gondola cabin.

Open: Daily, from 10am 1085 Arthurs Seat Road, Dromana t 03 5987 0600 e info@aseagle.com.au w aseagle.com.au

Skydive Australia

Skydive Melbourne’s beach and see the sprawling cityscape as you exit the plane from up to 15,000 feet. Freefall into an unbeatable view of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay with spectacular water vistas that make this beach skydive one of Australia’s best tandem skydiving adventures. Use code FREEFALL for $40 off.

Open: Daily — bookings essential 42A Marine Parade, St Kilda t 1300 663 634 w skydive.com.au Find us on:

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staY A while

DISCOVER YOUR OLD MELBOURNE GAOL STORY OPEN DAILY 9.30am to 5.00pm 377 Russell St, Melbourne oldmelbournegaol.com.au

Summer AT CROWN

For terrace dining at award-winning restaurants, indulgent hotel escapes, sophisticated bars, and breathtaking views, Crown offers the perfect mix for the season. This summer, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy the sunny days and balmy nights, all under one roof.

Watch the cricket and tennis on the big screens, catch the latest blockbuster movie or live show and shop an impressive selection of latest summer fashion from leading designer brands. Then sit back with cocktail in hand enjoying the delicious summer menus as the Riverwalk crowds stroll by.

Train: The closest train stations are Southern Cross Station and Flinders Street

Trams: Catch the number 12, 96 or 109 tram to stop 124A; or the number 58 to stop 115

Visit crownmelbourne.com.au

Walk: From Southern Cross Station (9 mins) or Federation Square (17 mins)

Balloon Flights Over Melbourne

Take an unforgettable one-hour balloon flight over the city of Melbourne followed by a five-star champagne breakfast at Grand Hyatt.

Take pleasure from the serene spectacle of Melbourne, a bustling metropolis of more than four million people. Drifting with the wind, experience Melbourne’s wonderful landmarks.

Enjoy stunning 360-degree panoramic views only available from a hot-air balloon. Fly with owner/ operator Chris Shorten, the BalloonMan with more than 25 years experience.

Free in-flight photos, flight video and flight map.

See & Do

Heading to country Victoria? We offer flights over historic Bendigo, with a post-flight champagne breakfast at Balgownie Estate Winery, Bendigo. t 1800 468 247 (1800 HOT AIR) w balloonman.com.au Find us on:

Bunyip Tours

Come and discover some of the most amazing landscapes Victoria has to offer with Bunyip Tours, our small group sizes (24) ensure personalised and interactive experiences. From the Twelve Apostles to Wilsons Promontory, Phillip Island or Ramsay Street, we have something to blow everyone away.

Special offer: Save $73 with Melbourne Attractions Pass Package – Great Ocean Road + Phillip Island Tour + Melbourne Zoo and Melbourne Star.

Free translation app downloadable in seven languages on selected services. Available via app store for iPhone and Android.

For a 10% discount book online with promotion code OVG (valid for direct bookings only).

Tram: Route 35 (free City Circle), 70 or 75 to stop 1 Train: To Southern Cross Station Open: Daily, 7am to 6pm 570 Flinders Street, Melbourne t 03 9650 9680 w bunyiptours.com Find us on:

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Cooks’ Cottage A visit to the family-friendly Cooks’ Cottage in the heritage-listed Fitzroy Gardens is a must when exploring Melbourne. Step back in time and learn about life in the 18th century. Dress up in traditional costumes and surround yourself with centuries-old antiques. Stroll through a delightful English cottage garden and find out about how the cottage came to be in Melbourne, who lived in it and the stories of explorer Captain James Cook, the explorer and his connection to this cottage.

Experience Christmas at the cottage throughout December and see how an 18th-century family celebrated the occasion.

Transport: Route 48 or 75 to stop 10 Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm. Last entry 4.45pm (except Christmas Day) Fitzroy Gardens, Wellington Parade, East Melbourne t 03 9658 9658 w whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/cookscottage /whatsonmelb @whatsonmelb @whatsonmelb

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Come and see the oldest building in Australia dressed up in true Christmas style. Open daily from 1 December to 6 January, 9am to 5pm (last entry at 4.45pm).

Children can also enjoy this year’s summer holiday program, Maggie and the Goat. This is an interactive adventure for children aged six to 11 years (ask our staff for the activity for younger children). Open daily from 22 December to 28 February, 9am to 4.30pm.

No bookings required.

Elk Fiona Lynch

Shop All across Melbourne, you’ll find amazing retailers plying their wares. Fill a suitcase with local fashion or find the perfect gift while you’re here.

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St Kilda Esplanade Market

Artistic Finds

SO:ME Space, South Melbourne Market

Food and Fun

Open all weekend, Fitzroy’s Rose St Artists’ Market is a place to source, collect and commission amazing pieces of art, fashion, homewares and jewellery.

Go for a walk on the beach then fossick through the stalls at St Kilda Esplanade Market, held each Sunday. More than 140 artists and craftspeople show their work at this open-air gallery by the sea. Unique, handmade goods, from arts and crafts to freshly baked delicacies, are the drawcard of the Sunday Market, held on the lawn of Arts Centre Melbourne and along St Kilda Road.

A stroll around an amazing produce market will allow you to taste local delicacies and stock a picnic basket. Stop for sushi, gozleme or banh mi at South Melbourne Market’s food hall. Don’t forget to check out SO:ME Space, which is dedicated to great design and fashion, and stock up on croissants, cruffins and baguettes at Agathé Pâtisserie before you leave. Wander beneath the historic sheds at Queen Victoria Market, shopping for seasonal local berries, before moving to the Dairy Hall for cheese, charcuterie and fresh bread.

w rosestmarket.com.au w stkildaesplanademarket.com.au w artscentremelbourne.com.au

w southmelbournemarket.com.au w qvm.com.au

Bargain Hunter

Be part of a local institution when you rise early and head to the Camberwell Sunday Market. Hundreds of vendors at this popular flea market that launched in 1976 sell everything — vintage fashion, vinyl records, homeware relics and forgotten keepsakes — including, sometimes, the kitchen sink. w camberwellsundaymarket.org Dairy Hall, Queen Victoria Market

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Pickup your FREE Tourist Rewards book and discover your favourite brands without the full price tag.

SHOP WHERE @JESSALIZZI SHOPS, MELBOURNE CBD’S ONLY 201 Spencer Street, Docklands. Next to Southern Cross Station | spenceroutletcentre.com.au | @spenceroutletcentre

Lightning Ridge Opal Mines

Join the Le Souëf family to learn about the most beautiful gemstone in the world. With more than 40 yearsʼ experience mining, cutting and exporting opals, we can teach you about all eight varieties available in Australia and how they are cut, polished and valued.

Visit our showroom for a unique, interactive, obligation-free lesson, then browse our huge range of internationally guaranteed opals.

Tram: Route 19, 57 or 59 to stop 2 Open: Mon–Fri, 9.30am to 5.30pm & Sat–Sun, 10am to 5pm 63 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne t 03 9654 4444 w opals.net.au Find us on:

The Block Arcade

A Melbourne heritage building and key feature of the city’s Golden Heritage Trail, this Collins Street National Trust treasure is a must-visit.

S e), 48 or top 9 exit)

The Block Arcade opened in 1892 during Melbourne’s Golden Age. Truly Melbourne’s grandest arcade, it’s home to 29 fascinating shops, an amazing intricate mosaic floor and the National Trust Tapping Man who has been tapping Melbourne’s CBD windows for half a century.

, 12pm to m to 2pm

The Block Arcade is listed on the Heritage Register of Victoria.

Guided tours: Available every Tue & Thu — bookings by phone or email are essential 282 Collins Street, Melbourne t 03 9654 5244 e tours@theblock.com.au w theblock.com.au

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Superb Southbank and city locations. Walk to Melbourne CBD, Flinders Street Station, Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall, NGV, Royal Botanic Gardens, Crown, MCG, restaurants and cafes. Easy access to RMIT, Melbourne University and more.

Outstanding resident facilities: residents’ lounge, dining area with kitchen, landscaped barbecue terrace, indoor heated pool, gym, sauna, theatre, concierge services and more.

Brand new 1, 2, 3 bed apartments available for sale (off the plan).

Open to inspect: Mon–Sat, 10am to 5pm & Sun, 12pm to 5pm 75 City Road, Southbank | 560 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne t 03 9278 8888 w centralequity.com.au Find us on:

Creswick Woollen Mills

Experience Creswick’s showcase store in The Block Arcade.

Follow a tour spinning an Aussie yarn, the history of Australian natural fibres and 70 years of manufacturing in regional Victoria. Specialising in luxurious alpaca, merino, cashmere and possum. Proudly featuring Australian-made quilts, blankets, throws, scarves and apparel. The Creswick Mill is the only remaining coloured woollen spinning mill of its type left in Australia.

Tram: Route 11, 12, 48 or 109 to stop 6 Train: To Flinders Street Station Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm Basement Level, 96 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne t 03 9662 1346 w creswickwool.com.au

in.cube8r Gallery & Emporium in.cube8r is a gallery and emporium space where more than 100 Australian creatives rent cubes to sell their handmade wares, such as jewellery, ceramics, prints, clothing and more.

No commission is charged by the gallery meaning creatives keep all profits they make. Thereʼs something for everyone in this treasure trove!

Tram: Route 86 to stop 19 Open: Mon–Wed, 11am to 5pm; Thu–Sat, 11am to 6pm & Sun, 12pm to 4pm. Closed public holidays.

321 Smith Street, Fitzroy t 0414 736 659 w incube8r.com.au Find us on:

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Shop

12pm to to 2pm

Central Equity Apartments

Local & international fashion, exquisite giftware, quality entertainment & mouth watering cuisine.

45 Collins St, Melbourne | collinsplace.com.au

Masons

Oh So Sweet

w masonsofficial.com w mjbale.com w lordcoconut.com

w burchandpurchese.com w chocamama.com w bibelot.com.au

There are a lot of well-dressed men in Melbourne, many of whom pick up their most stylish pieces from Masons, which stocks luxe labels including Jil Sander, Dior Homme and Junya Watanabe.

Get suited at M.J. Bale, a local label with a focus on quality and value. Its pieces span business, formal and casual wear. Make a statement with a one-off piece from Lord Coconut, perhaps the only store in Australia to stock local, handcrafted contemporary men’s jewellery and cuff links.

Shopping shouldn’t only be about what you put over your body — it should be about what fills you as well.

Luckily, Melbourne has you covered with some truly decadent sweet shops, like Burch and Purchese in South Yarra. Its hand-crafted cakes and desserts are intense. Stop by Chocamama for some indulgent Melbourne-made chocolate and confectionery.

You’ll also find pretty sweet treats at Bibelot, which is worth a detour if you find yourself near the South Melbourne Market.

Toy Story

Want something for the smallest members of your family? Jasper Junior is a treasure trove, with toys, dolls, teddies and costumes from floor to ceiling.

As well as super-soft Kallisto koala hand puppets and an Egmont Alice musical kangaroo with joey, you can buy games, books, party supplies and cute outfits at Big Dreams, an emporium of delights for kids. w jasperjunior.com.au w bigdreams.com.au

Big Dreams, Northcote

Bibelot, South Melbourne

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It’s a Man’s World

Taste of the Nation

You don’t have to leave Melbourne’s best flavours behind when you go home. Pack a jar of the sweet stuff (or skin products made from it) from Beechworth Honey at The Block Arcade. Locally made chocolates, preserves and other fine foods are on offer at Clementine’s. Match it a with a regional shiraz, chardonnay or other varietal from Prince Wine Store. w beechworthhoney.com.au w clementines.com.au w princewinestore.com.au

The Finishing Touch

Not much space in your luggage? Take home a piece of contemporary jewellery from e.g. etal.

The gallery space stocks artisans from around the world, but there’s a strong showing from Melbourne designers, including Julia deVille, Anna Davern and Darren Harvey. For something with a real sense of fun, head to Lucy Folk, a petite space featuring her colourful creations, including jewellery and eyewear.

Elk Fiona Lynch

w egetal.com.au w lucyfolk.com

Did You Know...

City Favourites

Take a piece of Melbourne home with you, with fashion from one of these local designers. The easy-wearing pieces and accessories from Elk have a sense of playfulness and individuality. Another favourite label for its sense of humour, bright colours and interesting collaborations is Gorman. Men should check out the work of designer Brian Huynh and his contemporary label MNDATORY.

Gog and Magog, the mythical giants flanking Gaunt’s Clock in Royal Arcade, were modelled by maker Mortimer Godfrey on similar figures that watch over London’s Guildhall.

w elkaccessories.com w gormanshop.com.au w mndatory.com

Gorman

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Lucy Folk

THE

DISTRICT

DOCKLANDS

The District Docklands is the experiential heart of the Docklands.

Shop your favourite Australian and global brands. Ride t e iconic Melbourne Star for a bird's eye view of Melbourne and experience 3D art at ArtVo immersive gallery. Enjoy a unique all-day expe ience with a new entertainment precinct, a place to imagine different.

Right next to the Melbourne Star thedistrictdocklands.com.au

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Downies Coins & Collectables

One of Australiaʼs largest displays of Chinese Lunar and collector coins featuring modern numismatic releases, decimal and pre-decimal Australian and world coins and banknotes.

Featuring three interactive, rotating coin display cabinets, mechanically controlled with a forward and reverse viewing function. Holding more than a thousand coins from all over the world, including an extensive British, Colonial, Ancient and Australian selection.

Specialised services include rare coin sales and wishlist fulfillment, valuation services including auction consignments, and gold and silver bullion sales.

Open: Mon–Thu, 9.30am to 5pm; Fri, 9.30am to 6pm & Sat, 9.30am to 5pm

Shop

Shop U04 Southgate 3 Southgate Avenue, Southbank t 03 9686 8411 w downies.com

Johnston Jewellers

Johnston Jewellers, a family business dating back to 1901, is proud to be one of Melbourne’s largest opal dealers.

With knowledge stemming from an involvement in opal mining and manufacturing, Johnston Jewellers can provide first-class quality and a selection to suit all budgets.

We stock a huge selection of unmounted opals, as well as set opal jewellery, and are only too happy to explain the intricacies of purchasing one of these fine gems.

Johnston Jewellers also has a magnificent range of South Sea black, white and gold pearls, as well as jewellery, to choose from.

124 Exhibition Street, Melbourne t 03 9650 7434 e info@johnstonjewellers.com w johnstonjewellers.com Find us on:

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Duzenman, Armadale

Shopping Hot Spots Olga de Polga, Prahran

Design A Space, Windsor

01 In the heart of Melbourne’s

02 Got a big event — even a

w stcollinslane.com.au

w highstreetarmadale.com.au

luxury shopping district is relative newcomer St. Collins Lane. This exclusive arcade harbours stores including Maje, Rodd & Gunn, The Kooples and Coach. When you’re feeling hungry, hit dining precinct The Aviary, where you’ll find Asian flavours, Mexican treats, fancy burgers and high tea salon Runya’s Room.

wedding — coming up? Leafy High Street Armadale not only hosts many high-end Australian designer labels like Dion Lee and Scanlan Theodore, but is also the home of a number of couturiers.

Outlets like Bernadette Pimenta Couture and Anna Campbell Bridal are the perfect option for a special occasion outfit.

03 For an all-day experience,

head to Chapel Street. This is one of Melbourne’s most famous streets and the atmosphere changes as it moves through different suburbs. The Prahran and Windsor sections tend to have edgier, more independent labels. For cute and colourful tees and dresses, head to Olga de Polga, or find fashion’s next big thing at Design A Space.

This gallery-style store showcases the brightest Australian talents. w chapelstreet.com.au

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04 An entire floor of Australian

designers, the full quota of luxury brands, big-name food outlets and just about every high-street label you can name make Emporium Melbourne one of the city’s premier shopping destinations. Whether you’re on a fulltime retail fling or looking for a single special piece, you’re sure to find it in one of the more than 200 stores. w emporiummelbourne.com.au

Emporium Melbourne

05 From indie fashion to

06 Bourke Street Mall is

07 It opened in 1893 and

w bourkestreet.com.au

w theblock.com.au

shopping central. Big department stores Myer and David Jones both have their flagship outlets here, plus you can start your exploration of a number of arcades — The Block and Royal are just two of them — right here. Check out the GPO Building on the corner of Elizabeth Street, a historic building that now houses H&M.

shopping at The Block Arcade is still a grand experience.

As well as browsing the wares at Georg Jensen Living, Alpaca Collection or Gewurzhaus, which offers small-batch blends of herbs and spices, don’t forget to check out the artful mosaic flooring, domed skylight and stainedglass windows.

08 Jump on the free Fashion

Shuttle from Federation Square to explore Chadstone. This enormous shopping centre has more than 550 stores, including 38 luxury brands. When you’ve spent all your holiday cash, there’s entertainment, too.

Catch up on the latest releases at Hoyts cinema or take the kids to LEGOLAND for rides, play zones and block building. w chadstone.com.au Gewurzhaus

Chadstone

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contemporary homewares and some of the city’s favourite bars and eateries, Gertrude Street is quintessential inner-city Melbourne. Dress to impress then promenade the length of the funky thoroughfare. Stop at ESS Laboratory, Handsom and The Standard Store for fashion, pick up stylish homewares at Spacecraft and Mud Australia, and refuel at spots like Marion Wine Bar and Gertrude Street Enoteca.

Tax Free Luxury at Melbourne Airport International travellers can now discover a premium, pre-flight retail and dining destination at Melbourne Airport.

Located within the International Terminal after security, the T2 luxury precinct is home to 11 global designer fashion and accessories brands offering endless pre-flight retail therapy.

Fashion in full flight Label lovers can shop the latest runway looks tax free, from an impressive line-up of international designers including Tiffany & Co, Burberry, Salvatore Ferragamo, Max Mara, Emporio Armani, Watches of Switzerland, Bally, Michael Kors, Hugo Boss, Furla and Tumi.

This curated collection of some of the world’s finest fashion brands is Melbourne’s newest, luxury shopping attraction.

Tax & Duty Free Prices

Dining destination

Travellers can also shop tax and duty free on their favourite premium brands from the new duty free retail store.

As the last stop on the travel itinerary, jetsetters can enjoy a pre-flight bite to eat or drink from some of the city’s top hospitality hot spots.

As one of Australia’s best duty free experiences, Melbourne Duty Free has popular cosmetics, liquor, health and wellbeing, jewellery, electronics, and accessories brands available at unmissable prices. Whether it’s shopping for that perfect souvenir, or a gift for a loved one, visitors can spend less on top brands and exclusive products to depart Melbourne with lasting memories.

Six of Melbourne’s favourite restaurants and bars are on the menu, serving up a variety of gourmet dishes and cuisines.

Enjoy Spanish tapas at Bar Pulpo by Movida, French-inspired fare at Café Vue, healthy snacks from Urban Provedore, a refreshing drink at Two Johns pub or coffee from local institution, Brunetti.

www.melbourneairport.com.au

Queen Vic Market Queen Victoria Market is an authentic, bustling, inner-city market that has been the heart and soul of Melbourne for 140 years. Home to more than 700 small businesses, it’s a great place to discover fresh and specialty produce, handmade and unique products, great coffee and food, souvenirs and clothing. Shopping at the market has always been one of life’s great pleasures. It’s not just the abundance of fresh food, it’s the friendly banter with the traders, the vibrant and multicultural atmosphere, the special events and festivals, and the sense of belonging that comes with it.

Tram: Route 19, 57 or 59 to stop 7; or route 58 to stop 9 Train: To Melbourne Central or Flagstaff Stations Open: Tue & Thu, 6am to 2pm; Fri, 6am to 5pm; Sat, 6am to 3pm & Sun, 9am to 4pm Corner Elizabeth & Victoria Streets, Melbourne t 03 9320 5822 w qvm.com.au/tours | thenightmarket.com.au /queenvicmarket | /queenvictorianightmarket @vicmarket | @thenightmarket

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Be sure to take the Ultimate Foodie Tour, a two-hour, guided walking tour where you’ll taste the freshest produce, discover unique ingredients, learn tips and tricks for shopping and cooking, discover the marketʼs history and meet some of our beloved traders. Bookings essential at the website (left).

Queen Victoria Market is also home to the Night Market on Wednesday nights, showcasing global street food, live music and entertainment, festival bars, specialty shopping and a great Melbourne night out.

Come and explore the Market and see why it is one of Melbourne’s best-loved places.

Fargo & Co, Richmond Carmen Zammit

Eat& Drink Don’t forget your appetite. At all times of the day and night, Melbourne has world-class restaurants, cafes and bars to enjoy.

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Pidapipò

Popstic

The Italian Connection

For four generations, Lello Lavezzi’s relatives have made gelato in Naples, and now — thanks to Melbourne-based Angelo Sperlingo — his recipes are available here. Lavezzi’s frozen treats are made daily and served from pozetti containers that offer protection from light and heat. Lisa Valmorbida studied at Bologna’s gelato university and now, at Pidapipò, creates amazing flavours like banana milk and pina colada. Having conquered Melbourne with his authentic pizzas, chef Johnny di Francesca travelled back and forth to Naples for two years to study gelato making. At Zero Gradi you can taste his always-evolving flavours. w lavezzi.com.au w pidapipo.com.au w zerogradi.com.au

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License to Chill

It’s all about the theatre at Fitzroy’s N2 Extreme Gelato, where your chosen flavour is frozen to order using liquid nitrogen. A long-time favourite spot for iced delights is Gelateria Primavera. Sweet and sour lemon sorbet is a perfect summer refresher. Stretchy icecream is a thing — in fact, it’s the main attraction at Cuppa Turca.

Dondurma (Turkish ice-cream), with flavours as diverse as salted caramel and feta and melon, is beaten with a long metal stick to achieve an elastic texture. w n2extremegelato.com.au a Gelateria Primavera, 157 Spring Street f /cuppaturca

Glace, Windsor

Frozen Moments

It’s all about dessert at Glace, Christy Tania’s bright yellow cafe.

And all the desserts, including the ones served during high tea, are frozen. Only natural ingredients are used to make Billy Van Creamery ice-cream, which is served at its Fitzroy North store, as well as from a food truck and cart that visit events across Melbourne. If you’re near Fed Square, drop by the Popstic cart to try adults-only sorbet popsicles in flavours like gin and tonic. w glacefrozen.com w billyvancreamery.com.au w popsticicecream.com.au

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The Hotel Windsor

Partake in afternoon tea under sweeping chandeliers at Melbourne’s grand hotel, The Hotel Windsor.

Relax in our beautiful tea lounge dating back to 1883 as you enjoy a three-tiered stand of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly-baked scones and modern Parisian patisserie. A glass of French sparkling wine is served on arrival, along with a choice of tea from our specially curated tea menu. On weekends, an indulgent dessert buffet with cakes, sweets and a towering chocolate fountain is sure to satisfy the sweetest of teeth!

Tram: Route 11, 12, 35 (free City Circle), 48 or 109 to stop 8; or route 86 or 96 to stop 9 Train: Parliament Station (Bourke Street exit) Open: Daily, 12pm to 2pm; Additionally, Wed–Fri 2.30pm to 4.30pm & Sat–Sun, 3pm to 5pm 111 Spring Street, Melbourne t 03 9633 6004 w thehotelwindsor.com.au/afternoontea Find us on:

A visit to Melbourne isn’t complete without experiencing the huge array of cuisine from around the globe available in the Bridge Road Precinct. With more than 145 restaurants and cafes, you will find the area bustling day and night. Make sure you also have enough time to explore the shops offering fashion and homewares.

Tram: Route 48, 75 or 78 Train: To Richmond or West Richmond Station w bridgerd.com.au Find us on:

Charcoal Lane

Charcoal Lane is a social enterprise restaurant run by Mission Australia that provides hospitality training and support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people. Located in the heart of Fitzroy, Charcoal Lane provides a twist on modern Australian food through the use of native Australian ingredients.

Tram: Route 86 to stop 14; or route 11 to stop 13 Open: Tue–Sat, 12pm to 3pm & 6pm to 9pm 136 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy t 03 9418 3400 w charcoallane.com.au

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Eat & Drink

Bridge Road Richmond

Advertorial

Down by the Water With summer in the air and the sun shining, there’s no better time of year to enjoy Melbourne’s finest riverside bars.

Ship Hot

Whether you’re looking for a great spot for lunch or somewhere to chill for the day, you’ll love The Boatbuilders Yard. Situated beside the Polly Woodside historic sailing ship — she makes the bar easy to find — this is the spot for an icy-cold beer over a game of bocce, wine and holiday reading in a deckchair, or impressing your significant other with sunset cocktails. w theboatbuildersyard.com.au

Four Seasons Covered

When you enter The General Assembly it’s as if the CBD’s laneway vibe has been transported to South Wharf. Local artists have created street art installations on walls and staircases around the

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indoor-outdoor venue. Peruse the menu featuring the latest food trends, while you sample a huge range of drinks and listen to local acoustic artists. w thegeneralassembly.com.au

Under the Arches

In the historic Federation Wharf vaults by the Yarra River, you’ll discover an enduring favourite, Riverland Bar. Locals love it for after-work drinks, but the location means it’s perfect for a meal before a show at Arts Centre Melbourne or if you’re walking to the MCG. Tuck into crowdpleasing favourites and wash it down with a full selection of local wines, craft beers and spirits. w riverlandbar.com

Small is Beautiful

Beneath Federation Square, discover a riverside venue that specialises in locally produced and boutique wines, beers and spirits. At Pilgrim Bar that philosophy extends to the focused menu of seasonal share plates. This intimate spot with spectacular views of the Yarra is the kind of unpretentious bar where you can take someone you want to impress or pop in after a hard day’s sightseeing. w pilgrimbar.com.au

Free Wi-Fi and Chinese menus available at all venues.

Alipay and WeChat Pay available at select venues.

Fargo & Co, Richmond Carmen Zammit

Start the Day Right

The inventive breakfast dishes, like polenta porridge with persimmon and fresh and dried raspberry, draw diners to stylish Higher Ground from across the CBD. Also popular is compact cafe Hardware Société, which serves up French- and Spanish-inspired dishes for breakfast. On the weekend, head to Richmond’s glam Fargo & Co for its bottomless brunch. w highergroundmelbourne.com.au w hardwaresociete.juisyfood.com w fargoandco.com.au

Best on Bread

Toasties or jaffles aren’t an Australian invention, but we do love them. Basically, they involve jamming ingredients between slices of bread and cooking them in a sandwich press. Seinfeld-inspired George’s Bar has a full toastie menu, including the Takai, with pineapple, ham, mozzarella and green Tabasco.

Another bar serving jaffles — this time alongside local small-batch booze — is Bad Frankie. At the end of the night, order the Lamington, which has jam toasted into chocolate sponge cake, rolled in coconut and served with cream. w georgesbar.com.au w badfrankie.com

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Higher Ground

Word on the Street Jan (39) from Brisbane Next door to Prince Wine Store in South Melbourne is a beautiful space called Bellota Wine Bar. Choose any one of the thousands of bottles at the store then drink them here.

There’s a selection of charcuterie, cheeses and seafood to order, as well as some European-style dishes.

Neighbourhood Niceties Get out of the CBD and enjoy these bars that are favourites with locals.

w princewinestore.com.au

Jungle Boy, Windsor

01 Jungle Boy

/jungleboybar

02 Tinto Lune Croissanterie

Fresh from the Oven

The New York Times suggested they might be the best croissants in the world, and you’ll want to get in line early to ensure you don’t miss out on the buttery, flaky delights at Lune Croissanterie. For pastries, breads and cookies with an American twist, head to Candied Bakery. Dine in and tuck into jelly donuts and an apple pie shake — yes, the whole pie, pastry and all, is blended. w lunecroissanterie.com w candiedbakery.com.au Want more suggestions for places to eat in Melbourne’s neighbourhoods?

See page 92.

This is just the place to sample a touch of Spain in Hawthorn. Wines come from around the world, but you can also sip on cava, Spanish varietals and sangria made from the house recipe. w tinto.net.au

03 Dingo’s Bar

What do you get when you combine Australiana kitsch and 80s retro? This bar in Collingwood has it all — signature cocktails, DJs on Friday and Saturday nights, and a fun atmosphere. w dingosbar.com.au

04 Bar Josephine

Sip on local craft beers at this Footscray favourite. It’s all very cosy, with well-priced drinks, books you can borrow, and a cute courtyard where people bring their dogs. /barjosephine295

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Eat & Drink

Head through the cool-room door at a sandwich shop in Windsor and you’ll find yourself in a secret tiki bar, where fruity, fun cocktails are shaken and stirred.

Advertorial

5 Reasons to Visit Hophaus Munich meets Melbourne at this Southgate favourite, a modern take on the Bavarian beer hall.

The Yarra’s Southern Star Just a short stroll from the city, discover one of Melbourne’s most exciting shopping and dining precincts, Southgate.

01 Choose from the finest German and Czech beers, served from the venue’s 30 taps.

02 Feast on house-smoked Perfectly Placed

Whether you jump off the train at Flinders Street Station or are cruising past on a tram, it’s a quick walk to Southgate, one of the city’s pre-eminent retail and gourmet destinations. There are casual and classy restaurants and bars, boutique shops and places to pick up life’s little essentials, seven days a week.

Rewarding Retail

Looking for a gift or something for yourself? Southgate has you covered. Browse the racks of carefully edited vintage fashion at American Rag, update your stationery at kikki.K. or pick up a holiday read at Mary Martin Books. w southgate.com.au

Dining Delights

With a number of fine-dining restaurants with beautiful river views — Pure South Dining, Miyako and Red Emperor, for example — it’s perfect if you’re planning a special night. On your way to a show? Check out ENA Greek Street Food and BearBrass.

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meats, schnitzels and, of course, bratwurst from the extensive menu.

03 The Art Deco-influenced dining hall has sweeping views of the Yarra and Flinders Street Station.

04 It’s open for lunch,

dinner, after-work catch-ups, pre-theatre drinks and just about whatever occasion you can think of.

05 Speaking of occasions,

get a group together for the house specialty, a whole suckling pig cooked to order over the coal pit.

Hophaus

w hophaus.com.au

Pour a Glass

The walls of City Wine Shop are lined with bottles, and you can either drop in to buy something to have with dinner elsewhere or take a table. There are more than 20 wines to try by the glass. It looks like the sort of place hipsters would hang out, but Bar Liberty has a serious wine list. There are plenty of low-intervention, skin-contact varieties alongside the classics. w citywinebar.net.au w barliberty.com

Our Own Brew

Head to Stomping Ground Brewing Co to taste ales and lagers, IPAs and wheat beers, in the huge beer hall and garden that seats 250 people. On a smaller scale is fun and funky Tallboy & Moose. The beers here can be experimental — for instance, the Berried Alive is described as a milkshake IPA with lactose, vanilla and mixed berries. w stompingground.beer w tallboyandmoose.com

Shake it Up

w blackpearlbar.com.au w eaudevie.com.au

Bar Liberty, Fitzroy

St Ali, South Melbourne

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Eat & Drink

City Wine Shop Tess Kelly

Often topping best bar lists around the globe is Black Pearl. For 15 years it’s been crafting innovative cocktails like the Three Drop Swizzle, with premium gin, lime, pine and Becherovka. Find the hidden door down the lane and enter Eau de Vie, where service, style and sophisticated drinking come together.

Vertue Coffee Roasters, Carlton

Summer's

TOP EATS & DRINKS Pillar of Salt

Start the day right with an excellent breakfast at this stylish Richmond haunt. There’s poached eggs and smashed avocado on toast — this is Melbourne, after all — but don’t miss the fluffy buttermilk pancakes or poached eggs served with house-smoked salmon and kimchi hollandaise.

Vertue Coffee Roasters

Iki-Jime

w vertuecoffee.com.au

w ikijime.com.au

Choose a batch brew, pour-over or other specialty coffee to have alongside an almond croissant or other fancy pastry. There’s a great brunch menu, too, including plenty of options for vegans.

w pillarofsalt.com.au

Feast of Merit

Check out the passing parade through the big windows while you’re enjoying excellent Middle Eastern fare. There’s also an intimate rooftop bar where you can enjoy a drink before or after your meal. w feastofmerit.com

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Feast of Merit, Richmond

Australia has some of the freshest seafood in the world, and you can taste the best of it here. Tuck into a contemporary take on the prawn cocktail, Moreton Bay bug tart or wood-grilled barramundi.

Jimmy Watson’s

This old-school European restaurant and bar has been serving up charm since 1935.

Those in the know, however, head upstairs to the tiny open-air bar known as Wolf’s Lair. w jimmywatsons.com

Minamishima

Embla

Make sure your book in advance to enjoy chef Koichi Minamishimi’s omakase menu at this small yet perfectly formed sushi restaurant.

From the timber-top kitchen bar you’ll get to see all the precise skills that go into creating a perfect meal.

Embla

Try natural wines from small producers at this cosy, rustic bar, and team them with dishes that are sure to impress. The menu changes regularly, but expect the likes of skate with macadamia, shiitake and wattleseed. w embla.com.au

Kaprica

/kapricacarlton

Kaprica, Carlton

Jinda Thai, Richmond

Jinda Thai

Spicy, fragrant food is in plentiful supply at this industrial-style warehouse space. At peak times, it really bustles, because the traditional dishes — papaya salad, pad thai, jungle curry — are really affordable. /jindamelb

Pastuso

Heartattack and Vine

Named after a Tom Waits song and taking its inspiration from neighbourhood bars in Italy, this is the place for coffee and ciabatta-style sandwiches during the day, or wine, aperitifs and cicchetti (Venetian bar snacks) in the evening. w heartattackandvine.com.au

Corner Hotel

The flavours of Peru come to one of Melbourne’s quintessential laneways. The ceviche — raw seafood cured in citrus juices — is the house specialty, utilising all the fruits of the sea from baby octopus to red snapper.

Grab a table among the lush greenery of the rooftop garden, then order from the excellent menu of hearty pub food. There are burgers and steaks, barbecue pork ribs and fish and chips, all of which are perfect teamed with icy local beers or classic cocktails.

w pastuso.com.au

w cornerhotel.com

Corner Hotel, Richmond

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Eat & Drink

See the pizza you’ve ordered being made at this rustic neighbourhood eatery. It’s all completely low key, and if you don’t fancy a slice there are also some simple pasta dishes, like gnocchi with pomodoro and mozzarella, from which to choose.

w minamishima.com.au

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Duckboard Place Robert Blackburn

Arts& Culture Blockbuster exhibitions, incredible festivals and show-stopping stage spectaculars are all on the calendar during a Melbourne summer.

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Mirka Mora: Pas de Deux – Drawings and Dolls

Peter Pan Goes Wrong Alastair Muir

Word on the Street Brian (16) from Adelaide My mum made me do the Ned Kelly tour at the State Library Victoria last time we visited. I thought I’d be bored, but it was really interesting hearing about the siege at Glenrowan and we even got to see his armour. w slv.vic.gov.au

State Library Victoria

Raise the Curtain

Mischief Theatre is bringing the mishaps of Peter Pan Goes Wrong (19 December – 27 January) to Arts Centre Melbourne’s Playhouse Theatre. London’s Evening Standard described the production as “a joyous masterclass of physical comedy and general disaster”. The whole family will enjoy the stage version of School of Rock (until 17 February) at Her Majesty’s Theatre. Another one the kids will enjoy is Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus (2–12 January) at Arts Centre Melbourne. It’s a daredevil re-creation of the life and music of Mozart. w peterpangoeswrong.com.au w au.schoolofrockthemusical.com w artscentremelbourne.com.au

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Here Today

Check out MPavilion (until 3 February), a temporary structure designed by Barcelona-based architect Carme Pinós and standing in the Queen Victoria Gardens. During summer, it becomes a hub for cultural get-togethers from talks to performances. Out in NGV International’s garden, you’ll find the 2018 NGV Architecture Commission (until 24 March), a work called Doubleground, designed by Melbourne firm Muir and landscape studio Openwork.

Inspired by the architectural features of the Sir Roy Grounds building, it’s designed to activate this outdoor space. w mpavilion.org w ngv.vic.gov.au

A Life Remembered

She was a central figure in the cultural life of Melbourne and Heide Museum of Modern Art is celebrating the late artist.

Mirka Mora: Pas de Deux — Drawings and Dolls (until 24 March) features the sketches and soft, sewn dolls collected from her home and studio where she kept them close for decades. w heide.com.au Top left: Mirka Mora, Mother and Child on Bird 1970, pastel and charcoal on paper, 73cm x 52cm Courtesy of the artist and William Mora Galleries, Melbourne

e h t e f h o t y f r o o t y r S Sto istmaass Thee Th

Chhrristm r e y C Myer indowwss M Windo W

Now Showing

Melbourne Museum 17 November – 9 February

Melbourne Theatre Company

S e), 48 or top 9 exit)

A much-loved cultural icon, Melbourne Theatre Company is your ticket to the city’s best entertainment, all year round. This summer, Shakespeare’s classic romantic comedy Twelfth Night comes to Southbank Theatre in a dazzling new production playing until 5 January, and Miriam Margolyes stars in The Lady in the Van (pictured) from 2 February. Discover whatʼs on and experience Melbourneʼs home of theatre during your stay.

, 12pm to m to 2pm

Tram: Route 1 to stop 17 Train: To Flinders Street Station

bers

MTC Box Office at Southbank Theatre: Mon–Sat, from 9am 140 Southbank Boulevard, Southbank t 03 8688 0800 w mtc.com.au Find us on:

TYLE

Heide Museum of Modern Art

S e), 48 or top 9 exit)

Visit the home of modern Australian art. Founded in 1934 by art patrons John and Sunday Reed, Heide encompasses three distinct gallery buildings and a sculpture park on 16 acres of heritage parkland and gardens. Lunch at Cafe Heide, shop at the Heide Store or join a daily tour.

, 12pm to m to 2pm

Train: Hurstbridge Line to Heidelberg Station Bus: Route 903 to Bridge Street / Manningham Road stop Open: Tue–Sun & public holidays, 10am to 5pm

bers

7 Templestowe Road, Bulleen t 03 9850 1500 e info@heide.com.au w heide.com.au Find us on:

TYLE

MPavilion

S e), 48 or top 9 exit)

Queen Victoria Gardens is now home to MPavilion, a cultural laboratory pop-up pavilion designed by world-renowned Barcelona-based architect Carme Pinós of Estudio Carme Pinós. MPavilion hosts hundreds of free public events showcasing art, design, dance, architecture and ideas. Divided up into MTalks, MMeets, MMusic, MKids and MProjects, events bring the community together. Just want to be in the park?

The onsite kiosk offers locally sourced coffee and beverages.

, 12pm to m to 2pm

Tram: Route 1, 3, 3a, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 14 Train: To Flinders Street Station

bers

Open: Daily, 9am to 4pm and earlier/later for scheduled events Queen Victoria Gardens, St Kilda Road, Melbourne w mpavilion.org Find us on:

TYLE

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Advertorial

In-spire-ing

Arts Centre Melbourne

Sitting beneath one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks — the magnificent spire — Arts Centre Melbourne is at the heart of Australia’s largest performing arts precinct.

The Cultural Hub

Arts Centre Melbourne is much bigger than even most Victorians realise, comprising three venues on both sides of St Kilda Road: The Theatres Building has the impressive State Theatre, Playhouse and intimate Fairfax Studio; Hamer Hall is a premier venue for musical performances, including those by Melbourne Symphony Orchestra; and Sidney Myer Music Bowl is popular for open-air concerts.

More than merely a place to see a show, this buzzing cultural precinct is a remarkable tourist attraction in its own right that can be explored and enjoyed in a variety of ways.

More Than Meets the Eye Take an entertaining insiderʼs journey with guided tours available daily. On Sundays (10am to 4pm), local artisans present their unique handmade goods at the Sunday Market on the Arts Centre Melbourne lawn.

Wining and Dining

There are plenty of great places to eat and drink. The Barre is perfect for a pre-show wine, meal or late-night drink. For a quick coffee and cake break try Café Vic and the café on the forecourt. At Hamer Hall, Bombini Buzz serves coffee and ice-cream during the day, morphing into a pre-show bar.

Fatto Bar & Cantina, Teatro and Saké all overlook the Yarra River.

Australian Music Vault Open daily, free

Melbourne has long been Australia’s music capital, but now it’s the permanent home of the Australian Music Vault, a free exhibition showcasing the stories of contemporary Australian music.

tixatsix

Line up at the Theatres Building Box Office at 6pm nightly for your chance at one of 20 tickets to select evening performances for just $30. w artscentremelbourne.com.au

Guided tour

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Arts & Culture

For more than 30 years, Arts Centre Melbourne has been a hub for story-telling through world-class theatre, dance, music, art and circus, and has thrilled audiences with a diverse program of local and international productions and exhibitions.

The Cultural Hub

Summer sees a series of three Sidney Myer Free Concerts (7–14 February), held at the huge outdoor amphitheatre known as the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Pack a picnic basket and arrive early to bag a spot to hear the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra play classic favourites. For indie pop, rock and hiphop from the likes of Camp Cope, Baker Boy and Parquet Courts, grab at ticket for Laneway Festival (9 February), held at Footscray Park. w mso.com.au w melbourne.lanewayfestival.com

The History of Love

Love, Immigration Museum

They say it’s all you need, and you’ll discover plenty of it at Love (until 28 April), in the Long Room of the Immigration Museum. Combining visual art, personal reflections and historic and contemporary artefacts, this moving exhibition will be a powerful exploration of love in all its joyous, illogical, heart-breaking and tender glory. Think about those you feel most strongly about as you encounter deeply personal accounts told simply, directly and tenderly, by those connected to each story. w museumsvictoria.com.au/immigrationmuseum

Immigration Museum

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Steph’s Favourites We asked Steph to share some of her city favourites.

The Tote Tahlia Palmer

Cafe

My old local, John Gorilla, in Brunswick West. The owner, Jo, and staff are brilliant and their strong coffees have towed me through many ambitious deadlines.

Live Music Venue

In The Know

Steph Hughes

Attraction

Melbourne artist, musician and radio host It’s the early 2000s and Steph Hughes is a cash-strapped student whose rock band needs gig posters to spruik upcoming shows. Steph decides to take matters into her own hands and crafts the first of what will become hundreds of gig posters.

Fast-forward 13 years and she’s a respected graphic artist whose quirky illustrations and prints are in high demand.

Renowned for her encyclopedic knowledge of local music, Steph has worked as a music presenter for triple j and triple j unearthed.

She also drums, sings and plays guitar for several Melbourne bands.

Steph’s newest artwork can be seen at the recently opened Road to Zero, the world’s first immersive, hands-on youth road safety experience created by the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) at Melbourne Museum.

Melbourne Museum! I was so happy to create these murals for Road to Zero — it’s an amazingly tactile show that’s really going to stick with people.

Festival

I usually avoid setting up tents at any cost, but I make an exception for Meredith Music Festival, held on a farm outside of Melbourne, in December — it’s that good.

Connect with Steph and Road to Zero: w stephhughes.com.au w roadtozero.vic.gov.au

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Arts & Culture

The Tote is a legendary Melbourne music pub where I’ve had way too many good times. A Fan’s Notes in Carlton North is another favourite.

State Library Victoria The fourth most popular library in the world and the busiest in Australia, State Library Victoria is a mustvisit Melbourne icon.

Dating back to 1856, the State Library boasts incredible heritage architecture, including the majestic domed La Trobe Reading Room — one of the city’s most magnificent and photographed spaces. It has a soaring glass ceiling and book-lined balconies; head up to the viewing platform on level six for the best view in the house.

Free exhibitions with daily tours surround the dome showcasing some of the Library’s most precious Tram: Route 1, 3, 3a, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 8; or route 30 or 35 (free City Circle) to stop 7 Train: To Melbourne Central Station Open: Mon–Thu, 10am to 9pm & Fri–Sun, 10am to 6pm Corner Russell Street and La Trobe Street, Melbourne t 03 8664 7000 w slv.vic.gov.au /statelibraryofvictoria @library_vic @library_vic

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Russell Street Welcome Zone

treasures from its collection of more than five million items. See the original armour of Australia’s most infamous bushranger, Ned Kelly, and a dedicated display of some of the world’s rarest books, including medieval manuscripts illuminated in gold.

Visit the recently opened redeveloped spaces including two new reading rooms and the Russell Street Welcome Zone, a vibrant lounge and meeting space that includes Open Book, a stunning artwork spanning a 29m x 5m wall.

Free entry and Wi-Fi available.

Relax before or after your visit at one of the two onsite cafes.

ONLY IN MELBOURNE AT NATIONAL GALLERY OF VICTORIA PRESENTING PARTNER

PRINCIPAL PARTNER

MAJOR PARTNERS

M. C. Escher Study for Drawing hands February 1948 (detail) pencil.

Escher Collection, Gemeentemuseum Den Haag, The Hague, the Netherlands © The M. C. Escher Company, the Netherlands. All rights reserved LEARNING PARTNER

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Old Treasury Building Discover Melbourne’s history, heritage and people.

Built at the height of the gold rush, the magnificent Old Treasury Building now hosts a variety of displays centred on the history of Melbourne, featuring rare original documents from the Public Record Office Victoria.

Uncover the development of Melbourne from fledgling village to modern metropolis. Explore the basement gold vaults, where the precious metal was stored in the 1860s, and the caretakers apartment: a faithful re-creation of where the Maynard family lived during the 1920s. Over Christmas, this space will be filled with re-created paper decorations from the time.

Tram: Route 11, 12, 35, 48 or 109 to stop 8 or 10; or route 86 or 96 to stop 9 Train: To Parliament Station Open: Sun–Fri, 10am to 4pm 20 Spring Street, Melbourne t 03 9651 2233 w otb.org.au /oldtreasurybuildingmuseum @oldtreasurymelb @oldtreasurymelb

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I Have Got It Eugen von Guérard

Gold Rush: 20 Stories, 20 Objects presents the turbulent tale of Victoria’s gold rush through the individual stories of just 20 objects. There is a rich lode of stories to be discovered and the 20 objects chosen for this exhibition show just how varied they can be. From tiny manuscript dairies kept by men and women on the goldfields, to a replica of the largest nugget found in the world at the time, this exhibition has stories for everyone!

History Retold

At Melbourne Museum, Bunjilaka’s First Peoples exhibition tells the story of Aboriginal Victoria.

It’s a story that stretches back more than 60,000 years and this exhibition celebrates the diversity, continuity and vitality of the Koorie people. Visit the Milarri Garden to see plants used by the Indigenous people and view sculptures and animals.

At 1.45pm each day, a guide feeds the short-finned eels in Milarri Pond and explains their importance to Aboriginal people. w museumsvictoria.com.au/ bunjilaka

Connect with the Land

w rbg.vic.gov.au

Victorian Stories

Trace the history and culture of the Indigenous people of southeastern Australia from Creation Time till the present day at the Koorie Heritage Trust Indigenous Culture Centre’s interactive multimedia exhibition. The centre is also the starting point for the Birrarung Wilma (River Camp) Walk. With a friendly guide, you’ll walk down to Birrarung Marr on the banks of the Yarra River to gain a more meaningful appreciation of the location and its significance to local Indigenous people. w koorieheritagetrust.com

Bunjilaka, Melbourne Museum

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Arts & Culture

Aboriginal Heritage Walk

Take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk in the Royal Botanic Gardens’ Melbourne Gardens, on the land of the Kulin nation, with an Indigenous guide. He or she will perform a traditional smoking ceremony, then tell you about the local Boonerwurrung and Woiwurrung people and how they used native plants for food, tools and medicine.

Williamstown Parks Victoria

Neighbourhoods

Journey from the city centre to discover the unique personalities of Melbourne’s urban villages. Spend a few hours or a whole day taking in the attractions.

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Yarra Bend Park, Kew

South Melbourne Market

South Melbourne

w southmelbournemarket.com.au w properandson.com.au w austapestry.com.au

Kew

Surrounded by parks and bordered by the Yarra River, the suburb of Kew is leafy and serene despite being so close to the Melbourne CBD. It’s also where many of Melbourne’s grand historic homes are located, so keep your eyes peeled for architectural highlights when you’re visiting. Catch tram route 48 to Kew Junction where you can do some shopping at boutiques like Oscar and Wild and Ooshka. When it’s time for lunch, head to Studley Park Boathouse and its cafe, where casual dishes like burgers, salads and pizza are served with views on the side. Afterwards, you can hire a row boat for a cruise down the river. w oscarandwild.com ooshkawomenswear w studleyparkboathouse.com.au

Windsor

Catch a Sandringham line train to Windsor station then hit Chapel Street for some serious retail therapy.

There are plenty of boutiques and vintage stores — Shag is a colourful favourite — stretching all the way to Prahran and beyond. On the way, stop at funky Mr Mister for dishes like crispy chicken burgers and pulled pork arepas.

Australian Tapestry Workshop, South Melbourne

w shagmelbourne.com w mrmistercafe.com

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Neighbourhoods

Catch tram route 96 to the stop called South Melbourne and you’re just a few metres from all the culinary delights of South Melbourne Market.

Stroll the stalls before stopping for lunch at Proper & Son, where fresh salads and rolls are filled with the best from the produce aisles. Later, check out all the shops on Clarendon Street or admire the craft on display at Australian Tapestry Workshop.

St Kilda Pier

Moonee Ponds

There’s a lot of history on these streets. Queen Victoria’s Silver Jubilee was commemorated in Moonee Ponds in 1897, and it is the home of Dame Edna Everage (created by comedian Barry Humphries), who made her debut in 1955. Head to Queens Park with its lovely lake and follow the 3.5-kilometre heritage trail — a map is downloadable from the Moonee Valley City Council website — that takes in historic places and landmarks. When you’re done take a seat at Curators Collective, a cafe serving up a range of breakfast dishes, burgers and salads. w mvcc.vic.gov.au w curatorscollective.com

St Kilda

This bayside suburb has so much to offer visitors.

Catch tram route 96 to the waterfront in the afternoon and, as the sun starts to set, head to St Kilda Pier to see the penguins come in from the ocean. When darkness settles, head to Topolino’s where huge servings of pasta have been keeping diners fulfilled for four decades. Afterwards, go for a cocktail at the unpretentious local favourite, 29th Apartment. w stkildapenguins.com.au w topolinos.com.au w 29thapartment.com.au

Williamstown

Take a relaxing ride with Williamstown Ferries from Southgate to this historic port settlement. There are parks, beaches and museums to enjoy throughout the day. When you’re hungry, get a sweet fix at Chocolate Dip, where all your crepe, cake and coffee desires will be fulfilled. Beer lovers should instead stroll along the waterfront to Hopheads, a bar with craft brews from across the country. w williamstownferries.com.au /chocolatedip177 /hopheadsau

Curators Collective, Moonee Ponds

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Andrew’s Favourites

In The Know

We asked Andrew to share some of his favourite haunts in Fitzroy and Collingwood.

Cafe

I love the nature of the people who work at CIBI — the philosophy is head, hands, heart. I will order something fresh and healthy, walk around and look at some beautiful handcrafted tableware, then sit down and have a delicious lunch.

Bar

It’s quite a predictable choice, but The Everleigh.

I don’t drink a lot, so when I do I want something that’s really special.

Restaurant

Chef and restaurateur In February, Andrew McConnell will celebrate the tenth birthday of his fine-dining restaurant Cutler & Co, located on Fitzroy’s Gertrude Street. “When you open your own restaurant, you just think about getting through the first 12 months,” he says. “You never think about the tenth year. It’s gratifying that people still think it’s fresh and relevant.”

It’s just one of the businesses he has on the strip — Marion Wine Bar is next door and the Builders Arms Hotel is down the road — so he knows almost everything that happens around here.

Treat

I don’t get there often enough but the Japanese Bath House.

The first couple of times I went it was quite confronting, but then I travelled to Japan and it suddenly made sense.

Hidden Gem

There’s a tiny cocktail bar called Above Board that you can only get into by heading around the back. It’s great for a quiet drink with a friend.

Connect with Andrew: w cutlerandco.com.au @cutlerandco

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Neighbourhoods

Andrew McConnell

Once a month I need to have a burger, so I go to Rockwell & Sons. It’s more chill than a restaurant, but it’s not just a burger joint either.

Werribee

Get up early and head in your rental car to this suburb in Melbourne’s west. Start the day at The Social Sutra, a small, trendy cafe with plenty of hearty breakfast options to power you through the day. You’ll definitely want to spend some time at Werribee Open Range Zoo, where guests can climb aboard a safari vehicle and travel past giraffes, zebras and other animals that normally live on the African savannah. When you’ve seen all the creatures, head to Pacific Werribee, where you can browse the stores or grab a bite to eat from one of the outlets at Urban Diner. /thesocialsutra w zoos.org.au w pacificwerribee.com.au

Ascot Vale

Wander down Union Road, the popular shopping street, and check out the boutiques and homewares stores. After dark, grab a table at Fork & Fingers, an Indian restaurant that puts a contemporary spin on classic dishes. Butter chicken lasagne, anyone? w unionroad.com.au w forkandfingers.com.au

Footscray

In the afternoon, jump on a train to Footscray Station and you’ll arrive in the midst of this rapidly changing suburb. Grab a cheap bowl of noodles at Footscray Market, then head to Littlefoot, where the cocktails are inspired by the many cultures of the neighbourhood’s residents. w footscraymarketvictoria.com.au w littlefoot.com.au

Sandringham

Catch the Sandringham train to the end of the line and wander along the beach. Get a rush of adrenaline taking kitesurfing lessons with Sandy Beach HQ. On a sunny day, tables on the footpath at rustic Black Squirrel Cafe are in high demand. Classic dishes sit on a menu alongside healthy choices, including poke bowls, burgers and sandwiches. w sandybeachhq.com.au w blacksquirrel.com.au

Werribee Open Range Zoo

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Sandringham

Walking the Suburbs Take a little time out of your day to enjoy a relaxing stroll.

01 Dights Fall Loop

You’ll feel a million miles from the city, but you’re not. Start at Kanes Bridge in Yarra Bend Park, near Kew, and follow the river to the falls before looping back. It’s an easy four kilometres.

02 Merri Creek Trail Union Road, Ascot Vale

If you start at Fitzroy North you can stroll along this path shared by dog walkers, joggers and bike riders all the way to Coburg, eight kilometres away. Stop at CERES for a coffee.

03 Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail

For 10 kilometres from Williamstown to Altona, you’ll pass bay beaches, gardens and historic landmarks, while enjoying beautiful views of the city skyline.

04 Bayside Coastal Trail Rockabye Candy, Altona

Altona

It stretches for 17 kilometres, but you can just do a little chunk like the stretch between Beaumaris and Sandringham that takes in beautiful Half Moon Bay.

Neighbourhoods

When the days are hot, one of the best places to cool down is Altona Beach. There’s a long, white stretch of sand backed by Norfolk pines and the water is calm and safe for swimming. If you catch the Werribee line here early, start the day at Creme, where you’ll get good coffee and a hearty breakfast.

Another hot brekkie option is Rockabye Candy, which has an extensive selection of healthy and more decadent dishes. /cremealtona /rockabyecandy

Richmond

Catch tram route 48 to Bridge Road, one of Melbourne’s best areas for discount fashion shopping. If you hit the wall, stop at Richmond Hill Cafe & Larder where you can regroup over plates of simple, seasonal Mediterranean-style food. w bridgerd.com.au w rhcl.com.au

Half Moon Bay, Black Rock

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Sunbury

Melbourne Airport Broadmeadows

Melton

Keilor

Airport West

St Albans Caroline Springs

Essendon Moonee Ponds Flemington

Sunshine

Footscray

Melbourne Neighbourhoods

Altona

Hoppers Crossing

Werribee Point Cook

Wyndham Harbour

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Seddon Yarraville Spotswood

Newport

Williamstown

Port Phillip Bay

Epping

Hurstbridge

Diamond Creek

Thomastown

Kangaroo Ground

Bundoora Greensborough Eltham Pascoe Vale Preston

Coburg

Brunswick

Northcote

Parkville

Melbourne

Docklands

South Melbourne

Doncaster Kew

Richmond

Port Melbourne

Bulleen

Ivanhoe

Carlton Collingwood North Melbourne Fitzroy

Hawthorn

South Yarra Toorak

Camberwell

Burwood

Armadale

St Kilda

Box Hill

Canterbury

Mitcham

Ringwood

Wantirna

Glen Waverley

Caulfield

Brighton

Oakleigh

Wheelers Hill

Bentleigh Mulgrave Clayton South

Hampton

Springvale

Noble Park

Sandringham Beaumaris

Rowville

Mentone Mordialloc

Dandenong

Doveton

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Neighbourhoods

Prahran Windsor

Elsternwick

Warrandyte

Templestowe

Heidelberg

Explore the inner west’s heritage, culture and waterfront locations.

It’s the perfect day trip — close to the CBD yet a world away.

Williamstown, Altona, Spotswood & Newport Historic Spotswood

Home of Scienceworks, the Melbourne Planetarium, cool cafes and Australian history. Head to Scienceworks where you can explore, unearth and unveil the inner workings of the world. See a show at Melbourne Planetarium then download the Spotswood industrial heritage tour app. Take the train to Spotswood Station. w museumsvictoria.com.au/ scienceworks

Beach Town Altona

Stroll the beach, spot the birds, walk the pier then watch the sun set over the bay as you dine alfresco from a selection of restaurants and bars. With the beach and a tree-lined reserve adjacent to the shopping area, Altona is a destination with something for everyone. Take the train to Altona Station.

Waterfront Williamstown

Historical charm mixes freely with a contemporary lifestyle, showcasing cafes and restaurants overlooking the picturesque waterfront in Melbourne’s oldest suburb. Board the HMAS Castlemaine, a floating museum.

Experience a seaplane flight, ghost tour, Titanic adventure, railway museum and more.

Take one of three self-guided tours and visit more than 300 shops in a friendly main street with more than 70 restaurants, bars and cafes. Take the ferry from Southgate, St Kilda and Port Melbourne or the train to Williamstown Station.

w thesubstation.org.au

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Biking and Walking

Hobsons Bay is blessed with 23 kilometres of paved walking and cycling trails set along a stunning coastline. Take the punt across the Yarra River, start at Spotswood and set your own course passing through Williamstown, Altona and beyond. Look out for public artworks and markers along the trail.

Cultural Newport

The SUBSTATION is one of Melbourne’s most exciting arts destinations. Check out the schedule of performances and exhibitions. Take the train to Newport Station.

Altona Beach

Cherry Lake, Altona

What’s On During Summer Movies by the Bay Various dates and locations Outdoor movies. w hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au December — March Accessible Beaches Williamstown Beach & Altona Beach Accessible beach matting (seven days a week) and beach wheelchairs (free to hire during patrol hours) available at Williamstown Beach and Altona Beach throughout summer.

3 January 2019 Mitchelton Bay Cycling Classic Williamstown Cycling criterium event series returns to Williamstown.

January — February Summer Sounds 13, 20, 27 January & 3 February at Commonwealth Reserve, Williamstown 9 February at Logan Reserve, Altona Free outdoor music events. w hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

Victorian Open Water Championships

Markets Regional Farmers Market, Williamstown Second Sunday of the month, 9am to 2pm Robertson Reserve, Williamstown

16 December 2018 Victorian Open Water Championships Williamstown Beach Swimming Victoria hosts the 5km and 10km championship events.

Pier Farm, Willia mstown Simon Shiff

Fourth Sunday of the month, 9am to 2pm John Morley Reserve, Williamstown w rfm.net.au

w williamstowncraftmarket.com.au Altona Beach Market Every Tuesday, 9am to 3pm

Visitor Information Hobsons Bay Visitor Information Centre

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day)

Ferguson Street Pier, Williamstown

Commonwealth Reserve, Williamstown t 03 9932 4310 w visithobsonsbay.com.au w dyob.com.au/hobsonsbay

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Neighbourhoods

Williamstown Craft Market Third Sunday of the month, 10am to 4pm

Victoria State Rose Garden, Werribee

Werribee & Surrounds

Just 30 minutes from the city and en route to the famed Great Ocean Road is one of Victoria’s holiday playgrounds. Werribee and its surrounds have so much to offer visitors this summer. Don’t miss it!

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Werribee Open Range Zoo Cormac Hanrahan

Werribee Park Mansion

Summer is the perfect time to visit the Werribee Park Precinct, a hub of activity and world-class attractions.

Where else can you experience a morning wander through a grand mansion, an afternoon safari across the savannah and get cosy for the night in a luxury hotel? And that is just a taste. Come see it all.

Take the chance to visit the superb Victoria State Rose Garden. With more than 5,000 roses it will be at its bloomin’ best right about now as the vibrant summer roses flower.

Big cats, towering giraffes and quirky meerkats are just a few of the creatures great and small you will find at the amazing Werribee Open Range Zoo. It’s wild!

While you’re with us, don’t forget to taste awardwinning food and wine at the famous Shadowfax Winery, or indulge yourself with a night or two at the gorgeous Werribee Park Mansion Hotel and Spa. Feed your soul in the full-featured day spa or sit down to a grand high tea.

Every Fri & Sat night, November — March 6pm to 9pm Sunset Safari Werribee Open Rang Zoo Spend an incredible night out with some of the world’s most iconic animals at this new and exclusive after-hours event.

Start the evening with a complimentary drink on arrival at the pop-up bar then set off on one of the night’s three incredible experiences. Adventure onto the savannah for a guided sunset tour, feast with friends at an intimate dinner of African cuisine, then enjoy an immersive performance that showcases the rhythm and soul of Africa.

Proceeds from Sunset Safari help Zoos Victoria support international conservation partners such as Rhino Fund Uganda.

Werribee Visitor Information Centre Train: Werribee Line to Werribee Station Bus: Route 439 from Werribee Train Station to Werribee Park and Werribee Open Range Zoo Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm

Victoria State Rose Garden, Werribee

Werribee Park Tourism Precinct, K Road, Werribee t 03 8734 6006 w experiencewyndham.com.au /experiencewyndham @experiencewyndham

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Neighbourhoods

Step into history at Werribee Park Mansion where stories brim of scullery maids and wealthy pastoralists. Just beyond the mansion’s formal garden you will discover the bluestone homestead, a sculpture walk and the heritage orchard.

What’s On

Cityof Boroondara Hot summer nights, just east of the city.

Lido Cinemas, Hawthorn

Melbourne’s long, balmy summer evenings are tailor-made for al fresco enjoyment. But while the inner-city’s rooftop bars and cinemas attract most of the fanfare (and crowds), those in the know head to Boroondara, where summer nights aren’t just hot — they’re sizzling.

St Cloud, Hawthorn East

Lido Cinema, Hawthorn

w stclouddininghouse.com.au

With its diverse film program and none of the crowds associated with its CBD counterparts, the Lido rooftop’s ‘local favourite’ status might soon be history, as more and more visitors discover its charms. After all, nothing says summer like relaxing in a deckchair and watching a movie under the stars. w lidocinemas.com.au/rooftop

Contemporary, ultra-fresh Vietnamese fare and creative cocktails (Lady Boi, anyone?) make St Cloud a hot tip for summer. Chill out to laid-back beats on the rooftop or dine downstairs under high ceilings and dangling pot plants.

NineteenForty, Hawthorn East

Perched atop the gorgeous Art Deco Rivoli Cinemas, nineteenforty is all about panoramic views, magnificent cocktails and effortless chic.

Perfect for a pre- or post-movie drink (or skip the film altogether!), this hidden gem won’t remain a secret for long. w villagecinemas.com.au/ cinemas/rivoli

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Read Gardens, Camberwell

Getting There

Tram: Route 16, 48, 70, 72, 75 or 109 Train: Belgrave or Lilydale Line to Auburn, Hawthorn, Camberwell or Glenferrie Stations w boroondara.vic.gov.au @boroondaralife

Advertorial

Republica, St Kilda

South of the River

Exploring Melbourne’s southern suburbs is as easy as downloading the PTV app.

St Ali, South Melbourne

9am Start the morning by

catching tram route 12 to stop 127, at York Street, where you’re just a short stroll from St Ali Coffee Roasters. This industrial but welcoming warehouse space is where Melbourne’s third coffee wave began, and the breakfast menu is amazing.

11am Get back on the same

4pm On the corner of Acland

1pm Now you’re ready for lunch!

6.30pm Stop for a spicy dinner

tram then hop off at stop 131, the Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre. Sure, you can swim a few laps, but there’s also a wave pool and water slide to enjoy.

Head to the light rail station, stop number 129, and catch tram route 96 to St Kilda. Get off at stop 136 — The Esplanade — and you’re on the doorstep of Republica.

Overlooking the bay, it’s the perfect spot for lunch.

2.30pm Stretch your legs along

the beach and marvel at the kite surfers and sailboats as you walk up to Acland Street.

and Barkly streets you’ll find the bus stop for Route 246. Head towards Punt Road/Toorak Road in South Yarra and check out the retail strip. at Dainty Sichuan, where the dishes do not disappoint. When it’s time to return to your hotel, catch the train from South Yarra Station back to the city. w stali.com.au w melbournesportshub.com.au w republica.net.au a Dainty Sichuan, 176 Toorak Road, South Yarra w ptv.vic.gov.au

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Neighbourhoods

Expand the limits of your Melbourne visit by heading across the Yarra River to discover the delights on offer in some of the close suburbs to the south.

Using your myki and the PTV app, you can easily navigate the best of the ’burbs on an exciting day trip.

Phillip Island

Regional Victoria A day trip or longer will take you far from the city to areas with amazing landscapes, vineyards and farms, and history beyond compare.

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Geelong Waterfront Neale Cousland / Shutterstock

Bellarine Peninsula

w visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

The Grampians

Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Halls Gap

Be amazed by the natural beauty of this diverse region northwest of Melbourne. You’ll definitely need a car to get there and also to enjoy everything this vibrant region has to offer. It’s a popular destination for hikers, who follow trails through the sandstone mountains and past waterfalls in Grampians National Park. Halls Gap is a good town to use as a base, especially since it’s home to Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre, where you can learn about this ancient culture. w visitgrampians.com.au

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Regional Victoria

Rev up the rental car and head to this lush peninsula, southwest of Melbourne. Stop in Geelong on your way and go for a walk along the waterfront at Corio Bay to stretch your legs. You’ll pass the restored heritage carousel and the wooden bollards painted to represent historical figures. When you reach the Bellarine, you’ll discover it’s dotted with chilled-out coastal towns, like Barwon Heads, where you can do some shopping or enjoy meals in cafes that hero the local produce. Want more of the fresh stuff? Follow the Bellarine Taste Trail and stop at farmers’ markets, cellar doors like Scotchmans Hill and local restaurants. If you need a break from eating and drinking, get wet at Adventure Park, the biggest water park in Victoria.

Peninsula Hot Springs, Fingal

Mornington Peninsula

Daylesford

Jump in a rental car and head south stopping at Arthurs Seat Eagle for a gondola ride with majestic views across Port Phillip Bay to Melbourne. Tour vineyards and beaches before checking in at RACV Cape Schanck Resort.

The next day soak away your troubles at Peninsula Hot Springs.

Known for its healing spa waters and excellent produce, this region is a must-do for visitors seeking indulgence. Enjoy a spa treatment at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. Stroll along Vincent Street and browse the shops, before heading to Sakana for contemporary Japanese dishes.

w visitmorningtonpeninsula.org

w visithepburnshire.com.au

Hop Temple, Ballarat

Ballarat

This historic goldrush town is easy to reach on a V/Line service from Southern Cross Station. There are great cultural attractions on offer throughout summer, from exhibitions at Art Gallery of Ballarat to historical retellings of the days on at goldfields at Sovereign Hill. Don’t forget to bring your appetite, since there’s a range of restaurants and cafes.

Artists David and Yuge Bromley have opened The Pub With Two Names, with accommodation upstairs and an art-filled restaurant and bar, with local produce given the Argentinian grill treatment. Another favourite for casual eats and craft beer is Hop Temple. w visitballarat.com.au

Murray River

Murray River

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There’s no time better than summer to hire a houseboat in Echuca and spend a few lazy days cruising the mighty Murray, taking breaks to fish and swim. w visitthemurray.com.au

12 Apostles, Port Campbell

Stretch of Sand Don’t miss these spectacular beaches on your Victorian travels.

Gippsland

This region boasts quaint coastal villages and vast tracts of lush farmland. Anyone who’s active, however, should jump on a bike and tackle part of the East Gippsland Rail Trail. This 100-kilometre path follows an old train line from Bairnsdale to Orbost, with plenty of places to stop along the way. w visiteastgippsland.com.au

Yarra Valley

Just an hour from Melbourne is one of Victoria’s oldest wine regions. Tour the cellar doors — Domaine Chandon is a mustvisit — and stop at Only Mine, a chocolate maker that produces incredible flavours like lemon and peppermint, and dried apple and cinnamon. w visityarravalley.com.au

Great Ocean Road

It’s recognised as one of the most beautiful drives in the country, so hire a car and give yourself a couple of days to explore.

Get up early to see the stunning 12 Apostles as the sun rises, then stop for lunch at Port Campbell’s 12 Rocks Beach Bar. Stay the night at Drift House in Port Fairy before heading back towards Melbourne. w visitgreatoceanroad.org.au

Winkipop, Bells Beach

01 Winkipop

Just around the corner from famous Bells Beach, this right-hand reef break is famous with surfers the world over.

02 Squeaky Beach

This famous white sand beach on Wilsons Promontory actually makes a noise when you walk across it.

03 Johanna Beach Port Fairy Lighthouse

04 Safety Beach

The name says it all. This bay beach on the Mornington Peninsula is perfectly calm for all-day splashing and swimming. There’s a park and playground there, too.

Domaine Chandon, Coldstream

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Regional Victoria

The Great Ocean Road is just one beautiful beach after another, but Johanna has its own charm. Often quite deserted it sits in front of huge dunes and the surf crashes in. It’s great for walking, but can be dangerous for swimming.

Did You Know...

The little penguins who live at Phillip Island can dive to 73 metres and hold their breath for almost two minutes?

Masons of Bendigo

Bendigo

Regular V/Line services leave Southern Cross Station bound for Bendigo, about two hours away. Be sure to check out the latest blockbuster exhibition, Frida Kahlo: Her Photos (8 December – 10 February), at the excellent Bendigo Art Gallery. More history can be recalled at Golden Dragon Museum, which examines the lives of Chinese immigrants to this region. Bendigo has fantastic places to eat, but a favourite is Masons of Bendigo, where the seasonal menu utilises the finest produce from Central Victoria. You can taste the local wines at bars like Wine Bank on View. w bendigotourism.com

High Country

Drive through Bright on your way to Alpine National Park. Summer is the perfect time to hike and mountain bike here. Another way to get around is in the saddle with Bogong Horseback Adventures. w victoriashighcountry.com.au

Penguin Parade, Phillip Island

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Penguin Parade, Phillip Island

Phillip Island

Make the most of a day here by purchasing a 4 Park Pass that not only gives you the ticket to see the island’s famous Penguin Parade, but also includes visits to the Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island Heritage Farm and the multimedia experience at Antarctic Journey. w visitphillipisland.com.au

In The Know

Claire’s Favourites Here are some of Claire's favourite places on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Cafe

In Barwon Heads, Annie’s Provedore is a beautiful, cosy space serving exceptional produce and wine from all over the region.

Restaurant

If you’re looking for amazing food and spectacular views of the You Yangs over the water, head to Jack Rabbit Vineyard.

Bar

Noble Rot Wine Bar is a local’s hangout on the main street of Point Lonsdale.

There are plenty of local and international wines.

Claire Gemes Lon Retreat, owner and managing director

As a long-time resident of this part of Victoria, Claire knows the region like the back of her hand.

The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race comes through the main street of Barwon Heads. Cycling is big here and this brings lots of visitors down to the Bellarine.

Place

The Lonnie [Point Lonsdale] Back Beach is my place.

There are beautiful walks around the lighthouse, you can go rock-pooling, and there’s an off-shore reef where you can snorkel.

Connect with Claire and Lon Retreat: Lon Retreat Nikole Ramsay Photography

w lonretreat.com.au @lon_retreat

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Regional Victoria

For four generations, Claire Gemes’ family has farmed the land on the Bellarine Peninsula where this new retreat, with its seven luxury suites, now stands.

“Mineral springs run under the dune system,” she says, adding that the spa facilities and rooms at Lon Retreat all have direct access to this water. “You can turn on the tap to the bath tub in your suite, and mineral water comes out naturally heated to 40ºC.”

Event

Self-drive Adventures Hit the open road to discover Victoria’s regions at your own pace on a self-drive tour.

Go Beyond Melbourne

Travel from Melbourne to the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, Phillip Island and on to the white beaches and wineries of the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas. Put together a three-, four- or five-day journey winding through lush valleys and pristine coastal landscapes.

Sydney–Melbourne Touring Routes Chart a course from Melbourne to Sydney (via Canberra) on the Heritage Drive, exploring historic gold rush towns, award-winning vineyards and the mighty Murray River along the way. Alternatively, the 1160-kilometre Coastal Drive hugs the southeast coast of Australia, taking in national parks, pristine beaches and amazing native wildlife.

Great Alpine Road

The Great Alpine Road extends from the High Country region to East Gippsland, winding through lofty mountains, pine forests, bushland and past rivers, vineyards and farms. The 308-kilometre touring route got its name for being the mountain equivalent of Victoria’s famous Great Ocean Road.

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Great Southern Touring Route

The 850-kilometre Great Southern Touring Route takes in the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Road, rich Aboriginal culture in the Grampians and the intriguing history of the Goldfields.

Toll Roads

Some major roads around Melbourne carry tolls, which means you need to pay to use them. If you use the CityLink or EastLink toll roads, you’ll need to pay in advance or within three days of travel via the applicable operator’s website (see below).

Alternatively, you can call CityLink or EastLink (see website for phone numbers) to make a payment over the phone, or purchase a pass over the counter at a post office.

If you are hiring a car, check with your hire company to see if toll payments are taken care of as part of the hire fee. w citylink.com.au w eastlink.com.au

Halls Gap

Grampians

Bendigo

Ararat

He Castlemaine

Daylesford

Creswick

Dunkeld

Ballarat

Woodend

Daylesford & The Macedon Ranges

Geelong & The Bellarine Peninsula

Me Geelong

Portarlington

Ocean Grove Torquay

Warrnambool

Great Ocean Road

Apollo Bay

Mornington Peninsula

12 Apostles

Distance from Melbourne Geelong & The Bellarine Bendigo Ballarat

The Murray

Mornington Peninsula

Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

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75km / 47mi 147km / 91mi 115km / 71mi 214km / 133mi 55km / 34mi 60km / 37mi

Gippsland

Great Ocean Road

188km / 117mi 207km / 128mi

Phillip Island

142km / 88mi

High Country

308km / 191mi

Daylesford & Macedon Ranges Grampians

113km / 70mi 254km / 158mi

So

The Murray

Bright Mount Beauty

Nagambie

eathcote

High Country

MansďŹ eld

Marysville Healesville

elbourne

n

Myrtleford

Shepparton

Echuca

Port Phillip Bay

orrento

Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

Lakes Entrance

Gippsland

French Island

Regional Victoria

Phillip Island

Mt Baw Baw

Wonthaggi Inverloch Wilsons Promotory

Regional

Victoria

115 115

Geelong & The Bellarine

Ocean Grove Nikole Ramsay

Geelong is emerging as a go-to destination for outstanding dining, hip new cafes, a thriving waterfront, world-class events calendar and an emerging cultural scene.

The Bellarine, half an hour from Geelong, is dotted with small seaside villages, sprawling beaches and award-winning wineries and producers.

Summer is when Geelong and The Bellarine shines. For a region hugging the coastline and surrounded by water, it’s any wonder people flock to feel the sand between their toes and the warmth of the water on their faces.

It’s in the water that mussels can be found, and they are celebrated at the iconic Portarlington Mussel Festival in January, where upwards of 30,000 people descend on the town.

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Australian International Airshow, Avalon

A cycling legend resides in the region and a world-class UCI race is held in his honour. The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race takes place over Australia Day. One of the worldʼs oldest events and an all-round water and onshore extravaganza is the Festival of Sails held in late January.

Sporting events dominate the calendar in summer with the Vic Open Golf Championships bringing world-class players to Barwon Heads in February as Australian golf’s richest week plays out.

Be captivated by the magic displayed in the air by the masters of the sky at the Australian International Airshow held at the start of March. t 1800 755 611 (toll free) w visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

What’s On 12 January Portarlington Mussel Festival Portarlington 26–27 January Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race Geelong, Bellarine & Surf Coast 26–28 January Festival of Sails Geelong 7–10 February Vic Open Golf Championships Barwon Heads 23 February Pako Festa Geelong 1–3 March Australian International Airshow Avalon Airport

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Pyrenees Ranges Vineyard

Discover

Ballarat this

Summer

Yellow Espresso, Ballarat

Located just over an hourʼs drive west of Melbourne, Ballarat is a melting pot of art, culture, food and wine just begging to be discovered.

Major Attractions

Discover Ballarat’s nationally renowned attractions that take you on a journey filled with history, art, culture and imagination.

Pan for gold at outdoor museum Sovereign Hill, watch the jousting demonstrations at Australiaʼs only medieval theme park Kryal Castle, visit the Ballarat Wildlife Park to get close and personal with some of Australia’s famous native animals or admire the colonial and contemporary art at the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

Dining for All

Cafes, restaurants, gastro pubs and casual eats — your visit to Ballarat is sure to be punctuated by delectable dining experiences.

With a cafe culture on par with Melbourne’s, culturally diverse eats, award-winning restaurants and family-friendly eateries, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.

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An Outdoor Affair

Head to the Pyrenees region where wineries and wonderments are ample. Admire the rolling hills and stunning vineyards before you find your place at a local winery or restaurant and indulge in the best food offerings straight from the paddocks, patches and vines.

Festivals and Events

Ballarat’s annual calendar of festivals and events is a force to be reckoned with. During summer, check out the 2019 FedUni Road National Championships, the Ballarat Beer Festival, the Ballarat Beat Rockabilly Festival and Summer Sundays.

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat

Gardens and Lakes

Immerse yourself in the city’s lake and gardens precinct. Admire the local swans gliding along the glistening waters as you take a stroll, jog or ride around the sixkilometre Steve Moneghetti track.

Stop by one of the lakeside cafes for a coffee break, or picnic by the water’s edge before visiting the historic Ballarat Botanical Gardens and taking in the grand floral displays, heritage oak trees, Italian marble statues and Prime Ministers’ Avenue.

Ballarat Visitor Information Centre

Town Hall, 225 Sturt Street, Ballarat Central t 03 5337 4337 w visitballarat.com.au /visitballarat @visitballarat @visitballarat

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Meet Australia’s famous native animals, including koalas, wombats and 100 friendly free-roaming kangaroos. Around the park you’ll see Tasmanian devils, dingoes, southern cassowaries, giant tortoises, and a colony of little penguins — the world’s smallest penguin species. Visit the reptile house and find Crunch a five-metre-long super croc, as well as snakes, frogs and lizards. Marvel at the newest arrivals to the park — six cheeky meerkats — as they dig and explore.

A daily tour and a schedule of animal and conservation presentations will immerse you in the animal world.

Enquire about up-close Animal Encounters to spend time one on one with the animals. Pat a koala, cuddle a wombat or have a snake wrapped over your shoulders! Encounters include a professional photo as a memento of the experience.

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm (except Christmas Day) 250 Fussell Street, Ballarat East t 03 5333 5933 w wildlifepark.com.au Find us on:

Sovereign Hill

By night, be instantly transported into an immersive multi-sensory experience during the new sound-andlight spectacular, or join a lamplight tour and learn about the darker side of Goldfields life.

Train: Ballarat Line Bus: Goldrush special Open: Daily, 10 am to 5pm (except Christmas Day).

During daylight savings, Sovereign Hill is open until 5.30pm.

Bradshaw Street, Ballarat t 03 5337 1100 w sovereignhill.com.au Find us on:

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Regional Victoria

Named Australia’s best Major Tourist Attraction, Sovereign Hill brings to life the action and excitement of Australia’s 1850s gold rushes. There’s real gold to be panned — and it’s finders keepers — underground gold mines to be explored, street theatre and costumed characters. See a spectacular $160,000 gold pour and skilled craftsmen at work in the blacksmith’s forge, the candle works, the coachbuilder’s and the confectionery factory.

Craig’s Royal Hotel Ballarat

Located on historic Lydiard Street, Craig’s is a legendary Australian gold-rush-era grand hotel. Sample the best in local produce in The Gallery restaurant or indulge in our famous high tea in the stunning ballroom.

Experience the extraordinary.

10 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat t 03 5331 1377 w craigsroyal.com.au Find us on:

Art Gallery of Ballarat

Discover great Australian stories at Australia’s premier regional gallery. Experience the amazing collection, with works by leading artists, or catch an exciting temporary exhibition. Join a free tour, and enjoy a coffee or lunch in Kittelty’s Café.

Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm (except Christmas Day and Boxing Day) 40 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat t 03 5320 5858 w artgalleryofballarat.com.au Find us on:

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

Located a short 90-minute drive from Melbourne, the historic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa is a must-visit destination.

S e), 48 or top 9 exit)

, 12pm to m to 2pm

The historic bathhouse has been providing traditional wellness bathing since 1895. Drawing mineral-rich waters directly from the source, this bathhouse reconnects you with an array of mineral wellness experiences, including indulgent 100% pure, private mineral baths and a selection of specially designed wellness packages.

bers

Enjoy indulgences ranging from the large social bathhouse or experience the more exclusive Sanctuary bathing, which includes the aroma steam room, magnesium salt therapy pool and relaxation pool.

Mineral Springs Reserve Road, Hepburn Springs t 03 5321 6000 e info@hepburnbathhouse.com w hepburnbathhouse.com Find us on:

TYLE

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Explore Bendigo

Bendigo is a vibrant regional city with beautiful heritage streets, the legacy of one of the world’s greatest gold rushes.

Bendigo is only a 90-minute drive from Melbourne Airport and 90 to 120 minutes via V/Line trains from Southern Cross Station.

Bendigo Visitor Centre

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day) 51–67 Pall Mall, Bendigo t 1800 813 153 w bendigotourism.com /explorebendigo @explorebendigo

Until 10 February Gothic Beauty: Victorian notions of love, loss and spirituality Bendigo Art Gallery December – February Summer in the Parks Various locations in Bendigo 2–9 December World Junior Table Tennis Championships Bendigo Stadium

Regional Victoria

Explore these streets to discover the heart of Bendigo.

Thereʼs arts and culture led by the acclaimed Bendigo Art Gallery, award-winning restaurants and cafes, and stores where you can unearth unique vintage fashions and collectables. Relive the gold rush by visiting our world-class attractions, and taste quality local wines and produce from markets, nearby farms and surrounding vineyards.

Top Summer Events

8 December – 10 February Frida Kahlo, Her Photos Bendigo Art Gallery 9 February Chinese New Year Dai Gum San Precinct 2 March Scots Day Out Bendigo Rosalind Park & View Street

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Visit Baw Baw

It’s closer than you think Unique in its diversity, unparalleled beauty, and within easy reach from Melbourne, Baw Baw is closer than you think. We invite you to visit and explore a region renowned for its spectacular natural landscapes and wilderness attractions, historic townships, gourmet delights and world class hospitality.

Welcome to Noojee and Surrounds Leave the hustle and bustle of Melbourne behind and visit Noojee. The town boasts a rich heritage and unique natural attractions to delight and inspire.

Visit for the day or stay the weekend.

Noojee provides a range of places to stay with options from luxury chalets to deluxe cabins. Be spoilt for choice and indulge the foodie within at the local cafes, restaurants and boutique wineries.

Noojee Trestle Bridge Located just a short drive from Noojee and set in beautiful tall forest, the majestic Noojee Trestle Bridge is the tallest surviving wooden trestle bridge in Victoria.

The bridge is a legacy of the old railway that ran from Noojee to Warragul.

Toorongo Falls

Amidst scenic eucalypt and fern forest, the Noojee Trestle Bridge makes the perfect break to stretch your legs and enjoy the peaceful surrounds.

An impressive, tiered waterfall, Toorongo Falls is unparalleled in its beauty, and will ignite and delight all your senses.

visitbawbaw.com.au

Find yourself immersed in the dense native bush of Toorongo Falls Reserve. Surround yourself with towering gums and lush ferns as you walk the 750m, mostly uphill track to the awaiting Toorongo Falls.

Visit Baw Baw

@visitbawbaw

Flinders Street Station

Useful Information

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Melbourne Airport

With four terminals servicing arrivals and departures, Melbourne Airport is Victoria’s gateway to the world.

More than 305 million passengers use the airport each year, and there are plenty of ways to spend your time before your plane takes off.

Terminal 1

Terminal 2

Home to Qantas’ Melbourne domestic aircraft, Terminal 1 has more than 60 retail outlets, offering a broad range of products and services. Whether it’s the latest fashions, a new magazine or just some travel essentials, there’s something for everyone.

The transformation of the Terminal 2 luxury precinct is now complete. Showcasing the sophisticated essence of Melbourne city, all 11 world-class retailers are ready for travellers to explore a range of luxury goods.

Fashion labels such as Victoria’s Secret, Mimco and Sunglass Hut will ensure you’re suitably dressed for any occasion, while restaurant Billie Chu brings a taste of Asia to travellers, offering a range of exciting dishes. Throw in a number of other cafes, bars and fast food outlets, and there’s a meal for any traveller.

This international terminal houses some of the most fashionable and desirable brands in the world, including Tiffany & Co, Burberry, Salvatore Ferragamo, Max Mara, Emporio Armani, Watches of Switzerland, Bally, Michael Kors, Hugo Boss, Furla and Tumi.

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Terminal 2

Adjacent to the luxury precinct is our nextgeneration Melbourne Duty Free and a variety of new shopping and dining experiences.

Reflecting the Melburnian food and coffee culture, our restaurants and bars feature culinary delights from some of the city’s most celebrated chefs, serving up an authentic taste of the city.

Terminal 3

Virgin Australia operates from Terminal 3, which is located at the left end of the main airport building, directly adjacent to the International Terminal.

One of the most popular venues in the airport is PJ O’Brien’s Irish pub, with Able Baker Charlie another favourite for authentic Italian food.

Terminal 4

Among the extensive list of retailers are household names Country Road, Witchery, Mimco and Peter Alexander. One of Melbourne’s favourite eateries, Brunetti Café, is also on hand to provide a tasty way to spend your time before flying off on your Jetstar, Tigerair or Regional Express flight. w melbourneairport.com.au Terminal 2

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Useful Information

Terminal 4 was opened in August 2015 and features new technology, including automated check-in kiosks and bag-drop facilities, as well as an expanded departure lounge and more shopping and food choices.

Getting into

Melbourne After touching down at Melbourne or Avalon Airport, you have a number of options for making your way into the city.

SkyBus

SkyBus operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides an express service every 10 minutes from Melbourne Airport to Southern Cross Station in the city. There are three SkyBus stops just outside Terminal 1, Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. Tickets can be bought online and shown to the driver in paper form or on your smartphone. Alternatively, you can visit one of the SkyBus ticket booths near the terminals. For a one-way trip to the city, it costs $20 per adult and $20 to $39 for families. w skybus.com.au

Starbus

Starbus Melbourne Shuttle Service offers transfers from Melbourne Airport to your accommodation in the CBD or inner suburbs. The service runs seven days a week from 6am to 7pm, with departures every 15 minutes between 6am and 7pm then every half hour until 9pm.

The Starbus leaves from Bus Zone L (otherwise known as Groups and Charters). Bookings can be made online or via phone.

The price for a one-way trip to the city is $20. w starbusshuttle.com.au

Taxi

You can catch a taxi from designated taxi ranks located on the ground floor outside Terminal 1 and between Terminals 2 and 3 at Melbourne Airport. If you’ve pre-ordered a taxi to pick you up from the airport, the driver will park in the short-term car park and should meet you at the baggage carousel or exit point.

Taxi fares vary based on distance, location and time of travel. You can use the taxi fare estimator on the Taxi Services Commission’s website to obtain an approximate cost. w taxi.vic.gov.au

Hire Car

If you like the idea of deciding where you want to go and for how long, then a hire car from one of the many car hire companies. Pick up the keys to your temporary set of wheels and let the adventure begin.

Avalon Arrivals

If you’re flying into Avalon Airport, you can catch a ride to Southern Cross Station in the city on a SkyBus Avalon Express. Meeting all departing and arriving flights, the service offers access to free Wi-Fi and easy ticketing options. You can buy tickets online or at dedicated e-kiosks at Avalon Airport or Southern Cross Station. One-way tickets are $22 for adults (or $42 return) and children 16 and under travel free when booked with an adult fare. Avalon Airport also has a taxi rank directly outside the terminal.

For travellers heading to Geelong, Bellarine or the Surf Coast, SkyBus also offers a SkyBus Geelong Express. Tickets are available at the SkyBus ticket counter at Avalon Airport and a one-way journey costs $18 for an adult. Skybus has reached an agreement with Geelong Taxi Network to provide pick-up and drop-off services throughout Geelong, Bellarine and the Surf Coast for reservations made through SkyBus on 03 5278 8788. w skybus.com.au

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SkyBus Airport Transfers SkyBus operates a world-class, budget-friendly airport transfer to and from Melbourne Airport 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our Southbank, Docklands, St Kilda and Peninsula Express services operate seven days a week.

SkyBus Western Express from Werribee and Tarneit launched in July. SkyBus meets every flight at Avalon Airport.

Enjoy free Wi-Fi, unlimited luggage and free travel for kids on all family tickets.

SkyBus Link is a free transfer service between Southern Cross Station and accommodation in Melbourne’s city centre, available to all Melbourne City Express and Avalon City Express passengers.

24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Melbourne Airport at kerbside (T1, T3 & T4 outside arrivals) CBD SkyBus Gateway Terminal at Southern Cross Station t 1300 SKYBUS w skybus.com.au Find us on:

Avalon Airport

If you want to touch down and drive straight out to enjoy the sights, choose Avalon Airport. Avalon is the most efficient and economical airport in Australia.

It’s only 40 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, which is now easier than ever to reach through SkyBus Avalon City Express.

Avalon Airport is also the closest international airport to the Great Ocean Road, Bells Beach, Geelong and the 12 Apostles.

Bus: SkyBus Avalon City Express to/from Southern Cross Station via Werribee, or SkyBus Geelong Express to/from Geelong, the Bellarine and the Surf Coast.

Open: Daily, 4am to midnight 80 Beach Road, Lara t 03 5227 9100 w avalonairport.com.au Find us on:

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Useful Information

Drive straight up the highway, park out the front, grab a drink or meal and stay connected with free Wi-Fi, while charging all your devices in comfort right by the gate. It really is flying made easy.

Getting

Around From trams and trains to bike hire and ferries, here’s all you need to know about getting around Melbourne.

Tickets

myki is a reusable travel card — your ticket for trains, trams and buses in Melbourne and many parts of regional Victoria. To get started, buy a myki Explorer pack or myki card.

myki Explorer

Enjoy a ready-to-use myki card with one day’s unlimited travel on public transport in Melbourne.

Your pack also includes handy maps, a souvenir wallet and discounts to lots of our favourite places.

If you want to keep travelling, just top up your myki at a huge range of shops, myki machines or online.

To find out where to buy yours, visit the website below. w ptv.vic.gov.au/mykiexplorer

Buy Your myki Card and Top Up

You can buy and top up your myki at a huge range of shops (including all 7-Eleven stores), myki machines and station ticket offices. As a guide, $10 will get you around Melbourne for a day, with a little change.

For more on fares, visit the website below. w ptv.vic.gov.au/fares

Plan Your Journey

Download the PTV app or visit the website below to plan your journey and get real-time travel updates. w ptv.vic.gov.au

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James HH Morgan

Melbourne Art Trams

Melbourne is well known for its iconic trams and every year eight of the cityʼs trams are transformed into moving artworks designed by community artists.

You will see these stunning trams weaving through Melbourneʼs extensive network each adding to the vibrancy of the city.

Free Tram Travel

The city offers a Free Tram Zone, which includes the city centre and extends from Queen Vic Market to Docklands, Spring Street, Flinders Street Station and Federation Square (see the Melbourne tram map on page 131). If you’re only travelling in the Free Tram Zone you don’t need a myki.

Travel on the City Circle Tram is also free. Hop on and off the historic trams as often as you like. You don’t need a myki if you’re only travelling on the City Circle Tram.

Regional Victoria

With the largest public transport network in Australia, Victoriaʼs trains and coaches can take you to many parts of regional Victoria. Simply make your way to V/Lineʼs passenger hub at Southern Cross Station and the staff will help you plan your next adventure.

PTV Hubs

To find out more about public transport in Melbourne and Victoria, visit a PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station or 750 Collins Street, Docklands.

Night Network

Explore the night with the Night Network on weekends. Public transport runs all night on weekends for metropolitan trains, some trams and buses, with coaches running to regional towns from 2am. Stay out longer and enjoy Melbourne’s vibrant nightlife, popular hot spots and special events throughout the year. w ptv.vic.gov.au/nightnetwork

SkyBus

SkyBus is a direct service between Southern Cross Station and Melbourne Airport that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The buses depart every 10 minutes in both directions and stop at Terminals 1, 3 and 4. If you’re heading to Southbank, Docklands, St Kilda, Elsternwick, Elwood, Brighton, Frankston or Mornington Peninsula, SkyBus runs services to these areas. w skybus.com.au

Melbourne Water Taxis

Catching a Melbourne Water Taxi can be a smart way to beat the traffic or simply enjoy a scenic ride to your destination. There’s a regular service between Southgate, Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Park and the MCG for major events, such as football matches and concerts. Water taxis operate on the Yarra and Maribyrnong Rivers seven days a week, day and night.

Taxis

Taxis can be hired off the street, from designated taxi ranks or by phone/online bookings. There are taxi ranks all over the CBD (refer to the Melbourne City map on the inside back cover), including four safe-city taxi ranks for late-night travellers. Taxi fares vary based on distance, location and time of travel. You can use the taxi fare estimator on the Taxi Services Commission’s website to obtain an approximate cost. Between 10pm and 5am, Victorian taxi drivers are allowed to ask for an upfront deposit for the trip fare. Melbourne’s major taxi companies are 13 CABS and Silvertop Taxis.

Uber is another way to get around Melbourne.

Download the Uber app on your smartphone then book a driver. Although they are generally more affordable than taxis, Uber can implement surge charging at busy times. w taxi.vic.gov.au w 13cabs.com.au w silvertop.com.au w uber.com/en-au

w melbournewatertaxis.com.au

Melbourne Bike Share allows locals and visitors aged 15 and older to hire a set of wheels (and helmet) from one of 50 public bike racks across the CBD. You can borrow and return bikes at any of the racks across the borrowing network. Bikes can be hired for as little as $3 per day and $8 per week (providing you with unlimited 30-minute trips) using VISA or Mastercard. For everything you need to know about the bike sharing program, including pricing and rack locations, visit the website. w melbournebikeshare.com.au

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Useful Information

Bike Hire

Driving around town Road Rules

Traffic laws in Victoria may be different to those in your home city. Below are some of the major traffic rules that apply in Victoria to keep road users safe and ensure traffic flows efficiently. ++ Drivers are required to carry a licence at all times. International Driver Licences are acceptable for up to three months, however you will require a Victorian Drivers Licence after this period. ++ Australians drive on the lefthand side of the road, which can be initially disconcerting for visitors used to driving on the right. ++ Drivers and passengers are required to wear seatbelts.

Infants must be restrained in baby capsules and small children in an appropriate booster seat. ++ Speed limits are clearly marked (generally 50km/h or 60 km/h in built-up areas and 100 km/h on open roads) and police operate speed safety cameras across Victoria. ++ Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol carries serious penalties. In Australia, you are not permitted to drive a car if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.05 or higher. If you hold a probationary or provisional driver’s licence, your blood alcohol level must be zero at all times.

130

Driving is an efficient way to get around during your time in Melbourne, so read on to familiarise yourself with our road rules before taking to the street.

Traffic Near Trams

Cars share the roads with trams on many streets within Melbourne. With these trams come some important rules about driving near them: ++ Tram lanes are designated by a tram lane sign (that may indicate hours of operation) and continuous yellow line.

You must not drive in a tram lane during the times it is operational, except for up to 50 metres before turning, so long as you do not obstruct the progress of a tram. ++ You may only overtake a tram on the left. ++ Do not drive past the rear of a tram stopped at a tram stop (where there is no safety zone, dividing strip or traffic island). ++ You must stop level with the rear of the tram and wait for people to get on and off.

The tram doors must be closed again before proceeding.

Bicycle Lanes

Bicycle lanes are indicated by a bicycle lane sign and a continuous or broken white line. You must not drive in a bicycle lane during the times it is operational, except for up to 50 metres before turning or when parking.

Some particular driving manoeuvres that are used in Melbourne are described below.

Hook Turns

Due to tramlines running down the middle of major city streets, there are some intersections where cars turning right need to do so from the left lane. The vehicle remains there until the traffic lights for the road it’s entering turn green, then carefully executes its turn. See the website below for a short video demonstration of how to perform a hook turn.

U-turns

To perform a U-turn, a driver makes a 180-degree turn to head back in the direction from which they came. The simple rule to remember is drivers performing U-turns are required to give way to other vehicles and pedestrians. In Victoria, drivers are allowed to make U-turns at intersections with or without traffic signals and at breaks in the median unless there is a ‘No U-turn’ sign.

Visit the VicRoads website For more information about Victoria’s road laws and guidelines for appropriate child restraints. w vicroads.vic.gov.au

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132

Useful Information

133

City of

Melbourne Visitor Services

Visitors will find much to love in Melbourne. On every street and laneway, there are shopping, dining and cultural experiences to discover.

It’s all here — let a local show you the way.

Melbourne Visitor Services

Melbourne visitor services are your key to unlocking the secrets of the city and getting the most out of your visit to Melbourne. With key hubs around the city, pop-up services at premier events and roving ambassadors in some of our most visited areas, you’re never too far away from helpful, local advice.

Let the friendly staff and volunteers give you their tips on the must-visit bars and restaurants, shopping, key attractions and events not to miss in Melbourne.

Find us at: ++ Melbourne Visitor Booth ++ Melbourne Visitor Hub at Town Hall ++ Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre ++ City Ambassadors ++ Queen Victoria Market Visitor Hub

Melbourne Visitor Hub at Town Hall

Located within the historic Melbourne Town Hall, this hub is close to the retail, dining and laneways for which Melbourne is revered. City Ambassadors can help you plan your time in Melbourne and share tips only a local would know, as well as provide maps, give advice on public transport connections and access to free Wi-Fi. Open: Daily, 9am to 6pm (closed Christmas Day)

134

Melbourne Visitor Booth in Bourke Street Mall

Friendly volunteers at the Melbourne Visitor Booth provide free maps and information on shopping, attractions and what’s on in Melbourne, from the centre of this busy retail strip.

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm (closed Good Friday & Christmas Day)

Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre

Make this hub your first stop when visiting the heritage-listed Fitzroy Gardens. Find out about the picturesque surrounds, current events and attractions, purchase your Cooks’ Cottage tickets, and pause to enjoy the cafe and free Wi-Fi. Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day)

Queen Victoria Market Visitor Hub

Visit the hub in String Bean Alley at the Queen Victoria Market or seek out our ambassadors in their eye-catching red uniforms to receive trusted, local advice on how to best explore the sights and delights of the market and beyond.

Open: Market days, Tue & Thu, 9am to 2pm; Fri–Sun, 9am to 3pm

Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre

City Ambassadors

Dressed in their distinctive red uniforms, City Ambassadors provide a mobile information service in the city and can help with advice on shopping, events and how to get around.

Mon–Sat, 10am to 4pm; Sun, 11.30am to 3pm (excluding Good Friday & Christmas Day)

Melbourne Greeter Service

Free two- to four-hour walking orientations of the city are conducted by trained volunteers. Orientations in English depart daily at 9.30am. Orientations in other languages are available upon request.

Bookings are essential. Phone 03 9658 9658 on weekdays and 03 9658 9942 on weekends or visit the website for further information.

Melbourne Town Hall Tours

Mon, Wed–Fri, 11am & 1pm (excluding public holidays)

Cooks’ Cottage

A visit to the family-friendly Cooks’ Cottage in the heritage-listed Fitzroy Gardens is a must when exploring Melbourne. Step back in time and learn about life in the 18th century. Dress up in traditional costumes and surround yourself with centuries-old antiques. Stroll through a delightful English cottage garden, and find out about James Cook’s adventures.

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day) For ticket prices and more information visit the What’s On website.

24/7 Guide to What’s On in Melbourne For more information on events, restaurants, shopping destinations and things to do in Melbourne City visit the dedicated What’s On website. Share your favourite city experiences using #melbmoment.

Explore Melbourne in Chinese

For the latest updates on what’s going on in Melbourne, including upcoming events and opportunities, search CityofMelb in the WeChat app to subscribe.

Useful Information

Free one-hour tours of the historic Melbourne Town Hall give visitors the chance to learn about the architectural, social and political significance of this impressive 19th-century building.

Cooks’ Cottage

t 03 9658 9658 e visitor@melbourne.vic.gov.au w whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/visitors /whatsonmelb @whatsonmelb @whatsonmelb

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Traveller

Tips Wondering where to get your hands on visitor information, buy tickets to a show or what to do in an emergency? Here is a handy reference guide and tips to help your trip run smoothly.

Time Zone

Melbourne is located in the Australian Eastern Time zone.

Standard Time is UTC/GMT +10 hours. Daylight Saving Time is UTC/GMT +11 hours.

Weather

During summer (December to February), Melbourne’s average temperatures during the day are 14 to 26ºC (57 to 79ºF). For daily forecasts, check the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) website. w bom.gov.au

136

Luggage Lockers

Be Sun Smart

Various sized lockers are available at Southern Cross Station and hire ranges from $6 to $12 for 24 hours. Travellers Aid offers short-term luggage storage at Flinders Street Station between 8am and 8pm daily (same day only, not overnight). For costs, visit the website.

w sunsmart.com.au

Lockers are available for hire at several locations throughout Melbourne.

w southerncrossstation.com.au/ luggage-services w travellersaid.org.au

Too much of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause painful sunburn. Australia has some of the highest UV levels in the world, so it is important to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing such as a shirt, hat and sunglasses if you’re spending time outdoors. Visit the SunSmart Victoria website to check the daily UV index and alerts.

Smoking Laws

Victoria has strict laws on where people are permitted to smoke tobacco as well as e-cigarettes and personal vaporisers.

Smoking is not allowed in or around non-enclosed drinking and eating venues, outdoor areas where food is served (alfresco dining), train stations and platforms, public transport, cars carrying passengers under the age of 18 years, shopping centres, and enclosed spaces that are workplaces (to protect the health of employees, customers and public).

QV Melbourne and The Tan running track have also been declared smoke-free precincts.

Visit the website below for full details of smoke-free locations and smoking laws in Melbourne. w melbourne.vic.gov.au

Accessible Melbourne

Improving accessibility to Melbourne’s public transport, visitor attractions, events, venues and amenities for people with special mobility needs is a major priority of the Victorian Government and City Council.

Maps and Resources

The City of Melbourne offers downloadable Mobility Maps on its website covering the different city precincts. Lonely Planet also offers a free Accessible Melbourne e-book packed with tips and recommendations for travellers with special needs.

Other useful online resources for accessible travel and recreation throughout Victoria and Australia are provided by Australia For All and NICAN. w melbourne.vic.gov.au w lonelyplanet.com/ accessible-melbourne w australiaforall.com w nican.com.au

Travellers Aid

The below support numbers can be of service during an emergency.

Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance) 000 Lifeline (Counselling/crisis support) 131 114 Poisons Information 131 126 Nurse-On-Call 1300 606 024

Police Stations

Melbourne East 226 Flinders Lane, Melbourne East 03 9637 1100

Melbourne West 313 Spencer Street, Docklands 03 8690 4444

Major Hospitals

Epworth Hospital 89 Bridge Road, Richmond 03 9426 6666 Royal Melbourne Hospital 300 Grattan Street, Parkville 03 9342 7000 St. Vincent’s Health 41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy 03 9288 2211

Useful Information

Assistance and Support Travellers Aid provides travelrelated support and aid, including accessible toilets, showers, equipment loan and a rest area.

It provides advice and assistance to older and frail people, and people with disabilities to ensure safe passage. This not-for-profit operation has been helping travellers for almost 100 years.

Some services attract a small fee, but many are performed free of charge by staff and volunteers. Travellers Aid is located at Southern Cross Station (open seven days from 6.30am to 9.30pm) and Flinders Street Station (open seven days from 8am to 8pm).

In an Emergency

The Alfred Hospital 55 Commercial Road, St Kilda 03 9076 2000 The Royal Children’s Hospital 50 Flemington Road, Parkville 03 9345 5522

w travellersaid.org.au

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Hamish Munro, Collingwood

Shopping and Bank Hours

As a general guide, large shopping centres and specialty stores are open from 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday (except Friday where stores tend to stay open longer). Sunday shopping centre opening hours are usually 10am to 5pm.

Most banks are open 9.30am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and 9.30am to 5pm Friday. Most banks are closed on weekends.

ATMs are operational 24 hours.

Currency Exchange

The currency used throughout Australia is the Australian dollar (AUD). Foreign money can be exchanged for Australian dollars at banks and currency exchange desks at the airport and other locations (such as currency kiosks at shopping centres) around Melbourne.

Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS)

A 10% goods and services tax (GST) is incorporated into the price of all goods and services, except some basic items, sold in Australia. Under the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) you can claim a refund of the GST and wine equalisation tax (WET) that you pay on goods you have purchased during your stay.

To claim a refund you must: ++ Spend $300 (GST inclusive) or more in the one store and retain your invoices ++ Have purchased the goods no more than 60 days before your departure from Australia ++ Wear or carry the goods on board the aircraft or ship and present them along with your original tax invoice, passport and international boarding pass to a Customs and Border Protection Officer at a TRS facility. w border.gov.au

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Tipping

Unlike other countries, tipping is not customary and generally not expected, although it is appreciated.

City Postal Services

Melbourne GPO 260 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne Mon–Fri, 8.30am to 5.30pm & Sat, 9am to 5pm. w auspost.com.au

Visa Information

For comprehensive information about visitor visas, bridging visas and transit visas, visit the Australian Government’s Department of Immigration and Border Protection website. w border.gov.au

Consulates

All of the following countries have consulates in Melbourne: China

03 9822 0604

France

03 9690 6075

Germany

03 9642 8088

Greece

03 9866 4524

India

03 9384 0141

Indonesia

03 9525 2755

Italy

03 9867 5744

Japan

03 9679 4510

United Kingdom 03 9652 1600 USA

03 9526 5900

Fast and Free Wi-Fi

Free public Wi-Fi is available in Melbourne CBD, including CBD train stations, Bourke Street Mall, Queen Victoria Market and South Wharf Promenade at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The VicFreeWiFi pilot is managed and maintained by telecommunications company TPG and allows for the download of up to 250MB per device, per day. It also does not require personal information or feature pop-up advertising.

To login to VicFreeWiFi: 1. Look up available networks on your device 2. Select 'VicFreeWiFi' 3. Accept the terms and conditions VicFreeWiFi is also available in two regional Victorian cities: central Ballarat and central Bendigo.

As you explore Melbourne CBD use VicFreeWiFi to contact family and friends, book accommodation, get directions, book tickets to events or find restaurants and cafes.

Visit the website below to find your nearest outdoor VicFreeWiFi hotspot. w vic.gov.au/wifi

Public Phones

Arts Centre Melbourne Robert Blackburn

Frequently Called Country Codes Australia

61

Canada 1 China

86

Germany 49 Greece 30 Indonesia

852 62

Ireland 353 Italy 39 Japan

81

New Zealand

64

Spain 34 Taiwan

886

UK 44 USA 1

Ticket Booking Services Tickets for major events, theatre productions, exhibitions and attractions can be booked and bought through a number of vendors, including Ticketek and Ticketmaster.

Halftix is a great way to save money on last-minute bookings.

Located in the Melbourne Town Hall Administration Building on Swanston Street, Halftix sells tickets to events on the day at a discount.

Arts Centre Melbourne also has a Tixatsix offer. At 6pm each night, at least 20 tickets become available for selected evening performances for just $30. Tickets must be booked in person from the Box Office on level five of the Theatres Building. w ticketek.com.au w ticketmaster.com.au w halftixmelbourne.com w artscentremelbourne.com.au

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Useful Information

Hong Kong

Public phone boxes are dotted throughout the city and can be used for local, interstate and international calls (mobile and landline numbers). Local calls cost 50 cents, while long-distance calls are charged depending on duration. You can use either coins or prepaid phone cards.

Alternatively, prepaid SIM cards for mobile phones can be purchased at retailers across the city. To make an international phone call, dial 0011 (the international access code), then the country code followed by the telephone number, including area code.

Frequently Asked

Questions New to Melbourne? Here are the answers to common travel questions.

What’s the best way to get around the city? What are the public transport options in Melbourne?

Melbourne’s public transport system is an ideal (and cost-effective) way to explore every pocket of the city and further afield. The extensive train, tram and bus network stretches from the city into surrounding suburbs and regional areas.

For more information about public transport, refer to page 128.

Are there any free ways to travel around the city?

Melbourne has a Free Tram Zone in the CBD and Docklands. You don’t need a myki to ride any tram in this zone. However, if you travel anywhere outside this zone, you will need to touch on with a valid myki card. See the map on the inside back cover for zone boundaries.

You can also see Melbourne on the free City Circle Tram, an iconic W-Class tram that travels past major attractions and shops. If you’re only travelling on the City Circle Tram, you don't need a myki.

140

What type of ticket do I need to use public transport in Melbourne?

myki is the name of Melbourne’s public transport ticketing system and covers travel on trains, trams and buses. International and interstate visitors can purchase a myki Explorer Pack that includes: a myki smartcard (a credit card-sized plastic card that is effectively your ticket) pre-loaded with enough credit for one day’s unlimited travel in metropolitan Melbourne; instructions on how to use myki; handy maps; discount offers at many tourist attractions (more than $200 value); and souvenir wallet. A full fare pack for an adult is $15; child and concession packs are $7.50.

The myki Explorer Pack is available from the PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station and SkyBus terminals at Melbourne Airport and Southern Cross Station.

Where can I find public bathrooms or accessible public bathrooms around Melbourne?

Public bathrooms can be found throughout the city.

For locations, please refer to the map on the inside back cover.

Where can I find travel-related assistance and help?

Travellers Aid Access Services operates from both Southern Cross and Flinders Street train stations, offering personal care and assistance for senior, disabled or disadvantaged travellers, as well as information, referrals for accommodation, showers, rest facilities, internet access, and transport and travel information. Travellers Aid Access Services at Southern Cross are available weekdays from 10am to 5pm and weekends from 11am to 4pm.

The Flinders Street service is open seven days from 8am to 8pm. w travellersaid.org.au

Where can I buy discounted tickets to shows and events?

Halftix is a great way to save money on last-minute bookings. Located in the Melbourne Town Hall Administration Building on Swanston Street, Halftix sells tickets to events on the day at a discount.

Arts Centre Melbourne also has a Tixatsix offer.

At 6pm each night, at least 20 tickets become available for selected evening performances for just $30. Tickets must be booked in person from the Box Office on level five of the Theatres Building. w halftixmelbourne.com w artscentremelbourne.com.au/tixatsix

Collins Street

Where can I get face-to-face information about what to do and how to get around Melbourne?

City Ambassadors and the Melbourne Greeter Service are local experts who know everything there is to know about Melbourne. They offer useful advice and assistance and can be found at a variety of locations. For more information, refer to page 134. You can also visit a PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station or at 750 Collins Street for public transport information.

Useful Information

Travellers Aid

Southern Cross Station

141

Advertiser Index See & Do Adventure Park Geelong

35

Queen Victoria Market

68

Arthurs Seat Eagle

48

Spencer Outlet Centre

55

Arts Centre Melbourne Sunday Market

48

The Block Arcade

56

The District Docklands

61

Australian Open BalloonMan

2 51

Bunyip Tours

51

Cooksʼ Cottage

52

Crown Melbourne

50

Eureka Skydeck

33

Gumbaya World

43

Hophaus Euro Bar & Bistro NYE Festival

44

Last Minute Day Tours

31

Luna Park Melbourne

40

Melbourne Cricket Ground

37

Melbourne River Cruises

34

Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

28

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

30

National Sports Museum

37

Old Melbourne Gaol

49

Parliament House

48

Port Phillip Ferries

40

Puffing Billy Railway

28

Punting on the Lake

42

RAAF Museum Point Cook

30

Road to Zero Experience 44 Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

42

School of Rock The Musical

29

SEA LIFE Melbourne

45

Skydive Australia

48

Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant

34

St Kilda Esplanade Market

36

Sunny Ridge

30

The Q Train

41

Victoria Police Museum

44

Yarra River Cruises

30

Werribee Open Range Zoo

148

William Ricketts Sanctuary

40

Shop Central Equity Apartments

57

Collins Place

58

Collins234

62

Creswick Woollen Mills

57

Downies Coins & Collectables

63

in.cube8r Gallery & Emporium

57

Johnston Jewellers

63

Lightning Ridge Opal Mines

56

Melbourne Airport Shopping

66

142

Eat & Drink Bridge Road Richmond

71

Charcoal Lane

71

Marnong Estate

73

Pilgrim Bar

72

Riverland Bar

72

Southgate

76

The Boatbuilders Yard

72

The General Assembly

72

The Hotel Windsor

71

Arts & Culture Arts Centre Melbourne

85

Escher X nendo | Between Two Worlds

89

Heide Museum of Modern Art

84

Make Believe — The Story of the Myer Christmas Windows

83

Melbourne Theatre Company

84

MPavilion

84

Old Treasury Building

90

State Library Victoria

88

Regional Victoria Art Gallery of Ballarat

120

Ballarat Wildlife Park

119

Craigʼs Royal Hotel

120

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

120

Sea All Dolphin Swims

117

Sovereign Hill

119

Visit Baw Baw

122

Useful Information Avalon Airport

127

SkyBus

127

Accommodation Index Refer to maps on pages 144–147 Melbourne CITY MAP

GRID REF

31

QT Melbourne | 03 8636 8800

E3

32

Rydges Melbourne | 03 9662 0511

F2

Atlantis Hotel Melbourne | 03 9600 2900

C2

33

Sheraton Melbourne Hotel | 1800 450 010

F2

3

Batmanʼs Hill On Collins | 03 9614 6344

C3

34

Stamford Plaza Melbourne | 03 9659 1000

F2

4

City Limits Hotel Apartments | 03 9662 2544

F2

35

The Hotel Windsor | 03 9633 6002

F2

5

Crossley Hotel Melbourne | 03 9639 1639

F2

36

The Langham, Melbourne | 1800 858 662

E3

6

Crown Metropol Melbourne | 03 9292 6211

C4

37

The Paramount Serviced Apartments | 03 9251 5555

F2

7

Crown Promenade Melbourne | 03 9292 6688

D4

38

The Sebel Melbourne Docklands | 03 9641 7500

B1

8

Crown Towers Melbourne | 03 9292 6868

D3

39

The Westin Melbourne | 1800 450 010

E3

9

DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne — Flinders Street 03 9654 6888

E3

40

Treasury On Collins Apartment Hotel | 03 8535 8535

D2

10

Four Points by Sheraton Melbourne Docklands 1800 450 010

A1

11

Fraser Place Melbourne | 03 9669 6888

F2

12

Grand Hyatt Melbourne | 03 9657 1234

F3

13

Holiday Inn Melbourne on Flinders | 1800 HOTELS

C3

14

The Victoria Hotel | 03 9669 0000

E2

15

Jazz Corner Hotel | 03 9454 9000

D1

16

Melbourne Marriott Hotel | 1800 251 259

17

1

Adelphi Hotel | 03 8080 8888

2

INNER Melbourne MAP

E2

GRID REF

Abode St Kilda | 03 8598 0251

42

Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne | 1800 339 436

F2

43

Bayview Eden Melbourne | 03 9250 2222

E3

44

Quest Flemington Central | 1300 929 992

B1

45

Crest On Barkly | 1800 335 318

E4

F2

46

Crest on Park (Apart Hotel) | 03 9525 4139

D4

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments, City Tempo 1800 008 910

D1

47

Easystay Studio Apartments | 03 8598 0255

E4

18

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments on Lonsdale 1800 008 910

48

Hyatt Place Melbourne | 03 9190 1234

C1

C2

49

Miami Hotel Melbourne | 03 9321 2444

C1

19

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments, MP Deluxe 1800 008 910

50

PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport | 03 8347 2000

C1

C4

51

Punthill Essendon | 1800 331 529

C1

20

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments on Power 1800 008 910

52

Punthill South Yarra Grand | 1800 331 529

E3

D4

53

Punthill Williamstown | 1800 331 529

A4

21

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments, Southbank Collection 1800 008 910

D4

54

Quest Hawthorn | 03 8803 7700

G2

22

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments, SouthbankONE 1800 008 910

55

Royce Hotel | 03 9677 9900

E3

D4

56

The Blackman | 1800 278 468

E3

23

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments on Whiteman 1800 008 910

57

The Chen | 1800 278 468

G1

C4

58

The Cullen | 1800 278 468

E3

24

Novotel Melbourne South Wharf | 1300 656 565

B3

59

The Larwill Studio | 1800 278 468

D1

25

Pan Pacific Melbourne | 03 9027 2000

B3

60

The Olsen | 1800 278 468

F3

26

Pegasus ApartʼHotel | 03 9284 2400

D1

27

Punthill Flinders Lane | 1800 331 529

E3

28

Punthill Little Bourke | 1800 331 529

F2

29

Punthill Manhattan | 1800 331 529

F3

30

Punthill Northbank | 1800 331 529

C3

Published by Destination Melbourne Melbourne’s Tourism Organisation e marketing@destination.melbourne w destination.melbourne

E4

This guide uses paper from internationally certified sustainably managed forests and is printed at a plant that holds the ISO14001 Environmental Management System certification.

The following organisations have actively endorsed this publication as the Official Visitor Guide to Melbourne While every attempt has been made to ensure accurate information at the time of going to press, the publishers accept no responsibility for supplied information or omissions.

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