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OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

WINTER 2026

NARRM AND A VICTORIA

WIN MELBOURNE GETAWAY

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Stay, dine and explore your way through Melbourne for two. Valued at more than $2,900* • An ultimate foodie package, courtesy of the Queen Victoria Market. This bumper package includes a double pass to the Ultimate Foodie Tour, a gourmet gift hamper, a voucher to shop and dine at the market, market merchandise and complimentary onsite parking • A two-night stay in a suite at lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne, with daily à la carte breakfast at onsite restaurant Bonnibel • A Spanish-inspired lunch for two at El Rincon • A double pass to Melbourne Museum’s feature exhibition and lunch at the onsite cafe • A modern Australian dinner at Brick Lane Market • A sustainable wine voucher for ReWine Wine Bar

Competition closes on Friday 21 August 2026. *Terms and conditions apply. Scan the QR code for more information.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE COMPETITION

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INSIDE

MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER

WELCOME TO VICTORIA

There are plenty of other great attractions too, like Lightscape, which transforms the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne into a spectacular open-air gallery after dark.

Come Winter in Melbourne

INNER MELBOURNE

What’s On

Landmarks & Laneways

Eat & Drink

Aboriginal Victoria

Arts & Culture

Shop

Family Fun

BEYOND MELBOURNE

Neighbourhood Map

Grand Old Cinemas

VICTORIA’S REGIONS

104 Regional Map 112 Nature, Intensified 117

The Soft Reset

USEFUL INFORMATION

124 City Map

132 Seasonal Offers

Scan the QR code to access the Official Visitor Guide to Melbourne and Victoria online. visitvictoria.com/ officialvisitorguide

Welcome to Victoria. Winter is here and it brings a strong line-up of events, attractions and experiences right across the State. In the city, make the most of the cultural scene. Blockbuster musicals opening this season include A Beautiful Noise, the stage show based on music legend Neil Diamond’s life, and Pretty Woman: The Musical. The AFL Premiership season is well underway and it’s also

This is a great time of year to venture further across the State and experience nature at its most dramatic. Spot whales at coastal lookouts along the Great Ocean Road or in the wild on a cruise off Phillip Island. There’s also the Ballarat Winter Festival and, in Victoria’s second largest city, Geelong Gallery is hosting Claude Monet and Australian Impressionism. So, whether you’re keen to taste some Victorian-grown shiraz in front of a fire or spend a weekend exploring with the kids, there is plenty to see and do right across the State. I hope you find inspiration in these pages, and that your time here feels ‘every bit different’. Steve Dimopoulos MP Member for Oakleigh Minister for Sport and Major Events Kelly Defina

126 Transport Maps

Super Netball season, with our two Melbourne teams, the Vixens and the Mavericks, hosting home games at John Cain Arena.

Suncorp Super Netball

WOMINJEKA OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

WINTER 2026

NARRM AAND VICTORIA

WIN MELBOURNE GETAWAY

Cover image: Biyala Gum by Troy Firebrace Read the story on page 8

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY We acknowledge the First Peoples throughout Melbourne and Victoria and recognise their continuing connection to the land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to Elders, past and present. We ask that, during your travels, you respect the cultures, peoples and land. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers should be aware that this publication may contain images and names of people who have passed away.

Come Winter in Melbourne

COME WINTER IN MELBOURNE CEO VISIT VICTORIA

Josh Robenstone

BY BRENDAN MCCLEMENTS,

Winter Night Market at Queen Victoria Market

The season suits indulgent lunches, while shorter days set the scene for long nights with music, good company and menus driven by fire and flavour, with listening bars and late openings adding to the vibrant mix.

Wominjeka! That’s welcome in the local languages of the First Peoples of Narrm (Melbourne) and surrounding areas. Victoria’s calendar is packed this winter. In Melbourne, major sporting moments light up the season, with AFL matches, the Super Netball grand final and the second State of Origin rugby league game filling our stadiums with excited fans.

Daniel Mazzarella

While the weather cools outside, there are rich, immersive experiences. NGV International is hosting Melbourne Winter Masterpieces: Cartier, presenting the most spectacular creations from the French jewellery house dating back to the late 1800s. RISING returns, with live music, dancing and large-scale installations in unexpected spaces. At Melbourne Museum, ROME: Empire, Power, People features more than 180 objects dating as far back as the first century.

If you’ve visited Melbourne before, this is a good time to look a little closer, seek out the smaller museums and galleries, or find places you might have missed. The season suits indulgent lunches, while shorter days set the scene for long nights with music, good company and menus driven by fire and flavour, with listening bars and late openings adding to the vibrant mix. In winter, Victoria’s regions are at their best. Check out the Winter Blues Festival in Echuca Moama, or sample excellent food, wine and entertainment at the East Gippsland Winter Festival. Go on long walks to take advantage of the cooler weather, and sample seasonal dishes at outstanding regional restaurants. Find an open fire in a country pub or head to the ski fields for downhill or crosscountry action. Wherever you travel in Victoria this winter, you’re sure to discover the season’s finest. BRENDAN McCLEMENTS CEO Visit Victoria

WELCOME TO VICTORIA

WINTER BRINGS OUT THE BEST OF VICTORIA, YOU’RE HERE AT JUST THE RIGHT TIME. IT’S THE SEASON TO SURPRISE YOUR SENSES WITH DELIGHTFUL DISCOVERIES.

Covering Country

Leon Schoots

COVERING COUNTRY

Troy Firebrace

Leon Schoots

Troy Firebrace

Ochre and canvas

EVERYTHING CONNECTED

MURRAY-INSPIRED

One thing is certain: Troy Firebrace and his art are connected. “It is a practice of my culture,” he says. “That practice stems from my identity, and my identity is nourished by my connection to Country.” With ties to both Yorta Yorta, near the Murray River, and Dja Dja Wurrung Country, in Central Victoria, everything from both regions influences his practice. “Country, identity and culture exist in a living, continuous circle of relationships,” he continues. “Creating art allows me to breathe within that circle. My identity is reflected in waterways, the grain of wood, hill scapes, all the elements fundamental to Country. These are translated into patterns, materials and purpose within my work.”

Troy’s must-visit spot in Victoria is the Murray River. It’s his deep connection to this place that inspired Biyala Gum, the cover artwork he created. Sipping hot tea by the fire on brisk winter mornings alongside the misty river sharpens the interplay of colour, texture, light and sound, he says. “In those moments, you’re surrounded by the river red gum, the leaves glisten with the morning frost and take on a deeper winter green, contrasting against the flicker of orange and yellow from the crackling sparks.” His advice is to find your own place that speaks to you and your identity. “There is no one special place to visit, as all spaces within Country can impact you individually.” + firebracecreative.com.au

FIRST STEPS There was a time Troy would never have considered becoming an artist. He’d planned to be a physiotherapist, but after noticing him always drawing, a maths teacher convinced Troy to take art in Year 12. “Around the same time, I was grappling with my identity as an Aboriginal person and hadn’t yet explored Aboriginal art or found my own creative voice,” he says. He ended up studying sport and recreation and discovering a love of teaching, so pursued that and art. Now, he creates fulltime. “My first major mural was for Bendigo Bank, which opened the door to large-scale works, sculpture and artist collaborations,” he explains.

WELCOME TO VICTORIA

YORTA YORTA AND DJA DJA WURRUNG ARTIST TROY FIREBRACE CREATES WORK, INCLUDING THIS EDITION’S COVER, THAT EMBODIES HIS CULTURAL IDENTITY.

Peter Kelleher

MELBOURNE EVENTS

What’s On

AFL PREMIERSHIP SEASON Various locations + afl.com.au ROME: EMPIRE, POWER, PEOPLE Melbourne Museum + museumsvictoria.com.au Until 8 Jun RISING Various locations + 2026.rising.melbourne Until 12 Jul DINOS AT THE ZOO Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo + zoo.org.au Until 31 Aug THE VINYL FACTORY: REVERB ACMI + acmi.net.au

JUNE 3 Jun – 26 Aug WINTER NIGHT MARKET Queen Vic Market (Wednesdays) + thenightmarket.com.au 4–14 Jun ST KILDA FILM FESTIVAL Various locations + stkildafilmfestival.com.au

Melbourne Winter Masterpieces®: CARTIER at NGV International

ON NOW

6–7 Jun OZ COMIC CON Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre + ozcomiccon.com/melbourne

29 Jun – 11 Jul MELBOURNE MAGIC FESTIVAL Various locations + melbournemagicfestival.com

6–16 Jun THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET: ROMEO AND JULIET Regent Theatre + australianballet.com.au

JULY

From 12 Jun MELBOURNE WINTER MASTERPIECES® 2026: CARTIER NGV International + ngv.melbourne 17 Jun AMPOL NRL STATE OF ORIGIN: GAME II (NSW V QLD) Melbourne Cricket Ground + nrl.com 22 Jun - 25 Jul MTC PRESENTS: LOSING FACE Southbank Theatre + mtc.com.au 25–27 Jun THE WIGGLES LIVE IN CONCERT Festival Hall + festivalhall.com.au

4 Jul SUNCORP SUPER NETBALL GRAND FINAL John Cain Arena + supernetball.com.au 10 Jul NAIDOC WEEK CELEBRATION: EMMA DONOVAN X MSO Hamer Hall + mso.com.au 14 Jul – 23 Aug PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL Regent Theatre + prettywomanthemusical.com.au 21 Jul – 22 Aug MTC PRESENTS: UNCLE VANYA Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne + mtc.com.au

From 5 Aug A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL Princess Theatre + theneildiamondmusical.com.au 6–23 Aug MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Various locations + miff.com.au

WHAT’S ON – MELBOURNE

12 Jun – 2 Aug LIGHTSCAPE Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne + lightscape.com/melbourne

3–5 Jul FIRELIGHT FESTIVAL Docklands Precinct + firelight.melbourne.vic.gov.au

AUGUST

From 10 Aug 2026 AFLW SEASON Various locations + afl.com.au/aflw 19–30 August NOW OR NEVER Various locations + nowornever.melbourne.vic.gov.au

COMING SOON 11 Sep NFL LA RAMS V SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS Melbourne Cricket Ground + visitmelbourne.com/nfl 26 Sep AFL GRAND FINAL Melbourne Cricket Ground + afl.com.au

REGIONAL EVENTS

ON NOW CURIOSITY: BUILDING BREAKTHROUGHS IN LEGO® BRICKS Discovery Science & Technology Centre, Bendigo + bendigoartgallery.com.au FACING MODERNITY: DEGAS TO PICASSO Shepparton Art Museum + sheppartonartmuseum.com.au Until 11 Jul MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW Various locations + comedyfestival.com.au/roadshow

JUNE ALWAYS LIVE Various locations + alwayslive.com.au 5–8 Jun NATIONAL CELTIC FOLK FESTIVAL Portarlington + nationalcelticfestival.com 6–8 Jun HEATHCOTE ON SHOW Heathcote + heathcoteonshow.com

Mount Buller

6–8 Jun SNOW SEASON OPENING WEEKEND Various locations + visitvictoria.com/snow

19 Jun – 19 Jul EAST GIPPSLAND WINTER FESTIVAL East Gippsland + egwinterfest.com.au

27 Jun – 19 Jul BALLARAT WINTER FESTIVAL Ballarat + ballaratwinterfestival.com.au

19–21 Jun MANSFIELD LANTERN FESTIVAL Mansfield + mansfieldlanternfestival.com.au

JULY

20 Jun SORRENTO SOLSTICE Sorrento + sorrentosolstice.com.au From 20 Jun DISCOVERING THE IMPRESSIONISTS: PAUL DURAND-RUEL Geelong Gallery + geelonggallery.org.au 26 Jun – 12 Jul ELECTRIC WONDERLAND Bendigo + electricwonderland.com.au 26 Jun – 19 Jul PUFFING BILLY RAILWAY TRAIN OF LIGHTS Emerald Lake Park + puffingbillyrailway.org.au 26 Jun – 19 Jul WINTER WONDERLIGHTS Sovereign Hill + sovereignhill.com.au

AUGUST

3–5 Jul ISLAND WHALE FESTIVAL Phillip Island + islandwhales.com.au

7–16 Aug THE DARK SIDE OF WINE Rutherglen + explorerutherglen.com.au/listing/ the-dark-side-of-wine-rutherglen

4–12 Jul BALLOONS OVER MILDURA Mildura + globalballooning.com.au/mildura

15 Aug KANGAROO HOPPET Falls Creek + hoppet.com.au

10 Jul – 2 Aug NOOJEE TRUFFLE FESTIVAL Noojee + noojeetrufflefestival.com.au

21–23 Aug PHILLIP ISLAND FESTIVAL OF STORIES Cowes + pifestivalofstories.com

17–19 Jul AUSTRALIAN SHEEP AND WOOL SHOW Bendigo + sheepshow.com

27–30 Aug WINTER SOUNDS Daylesford and surrounds + wintersounds.com.au

20 Jun – 29 Aug WINTER GLOW Adventure Park, Geelong + adventurepark.com.au/winter-glow 23–26 Jul ECHUCA-MOAMA WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL Echuca Moama + winterblues.com.au

WHAT’S WHAT’S ON – REGIONAL ON

19–21 Jun NIGHTIDE Queenscliff + nightide.com.au

31 Jul – 2 Aug INVERLOCH JAZZ FESTIVAL Inverloch + inverlochjazzfestival.com

COMING SOON From 5 Sep ARCHIBALD PRIZE TOURING EXHIBITION Shepparton Art Museum + sheppartonartmuseum.com.au

EXPLORE VICTORIA’S REGIONS ON PAGE 102 13

UNMISSABLE FIXTURES Melbourne Cricket Club

ADD THESE TOP SPORTS EVENTS TO YOUR CALENDAR AND JOIN THE CHEERING CROWDS.

Stefan Gosatti

AFL

State of Origin

IN STRONG FORM

CAN THEY KICK IT?

ANOTHER LEAGUE

The pride of the city, the Melbourne Vixens, return this Suncorp Super Netball season as defending champions. The team won the premiership last year and will be gunning to go back-to-back in 2026. Catch them playing home games at John Cain Arena in the final two rounds, against the Melbourne Mavericks (7 June) and the West Coast Fever (14 June), before the finals begin. + melbournevixens.com.au + netball.com.au

Yes, they can. The AFL season is coming to its exciting conclusion. There’s a new, additional round this season that gives teams finishing ninth and tenth a shot at the cup. The teams finishing between seven and 10 will play two elimination matches, with the winners going through to the first finals week. Best of all, it gives fans an extra week of footy and visitors a chance to experience finals fever. + afl.com.au

Rugby league fans will be out in force when the second State of Origin game comes to the MCG (17 June), with Queensland taking on NSW. There’s more rugby league action with the NRL premiership. Melbourne Storm has a string of home games at the end of the season, playing the Bulldogs (31 July), Sea Eagles (8 August) and the Panthers (20 August), so be sure to grab a ticket. + nrl.com + melbournestorm.com.au

ALPINE ACTION ON NOW

Chris Hocking

FROM FIRST TRACKS TO APRÈS, MAKE THE MOST OF WINTER WITH THESE MAGIC MOUNTAIN MOMENTS.

THE SNOW DOWN

When the lifts close, the mountain shifts gear. At Mount Buller, Kooroora Hotel offers pub meals plus live music and DJs. Another favourite is The Birdcage, open early for coffee and later for cocktails and conversation between runs or after the sun sets. The General in Mount Hotham is the village hub, head there to regroup over drinks and a meal. + kooroora.com.au + thebirdcage.net.au + thegeneral.com.au

WHAT’S ON

AFTER HOURS

Falls Creek

DOWNHILL DIVERSIONS Beyond the snowline, the surrounding towns offer even more. Bright sits between Mount Hotham and Falls Creek, making it a natural base between peaks. Tomahawks is a standout with food-truck-inspired share plates and quality cocktails. Mansfield anchors access to Mount Buller and Mount Stirling. Delatite Winery is nearby and worth a visit as one of the region’s most established producers, with an organic focus and a strong reputation for wine and relaxed dining. + tomahawksbright.com.au + delatitewinery.com.au

The View From Here

Victoria’s alpine resorts are in full swing, drawing a steady flow of skiers and snowboarders. At Mount Hotham, steep terrain and advanced runs sit alongside cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and guided sled tours. Falls Creek has runs suited to beginners through to experienced skiers and riders, plus trails linking the village and lifts. Mount Buller has the state’s largest lift network, and Dinner Plain keeps things low-key for families with easy access to snow play areas. Focus on tobogganing at Lake Mountain and Mount Donna Buang, or head to Mount Baw Baw, the closest snow resort to Melbourne. + mthotham.com.au + fallscreek.com.au + mtbuller.com.au + mountbawbaw.com.au

Delatite Winery

NRL Photos

NRL State of Origin

READYFOR RIVALRY ONE OF THE BIGGEST EVENTS ON THE AUSSIE SPORTING CALENDAR IS COMING TO MELBOURNE. ARE YOU PRIMED FOR NRL STATE OF ORIGIN?

RUGBY LEAGUE STARS For 44 seasons, two teams have vied for one of the most prized shields in Australian sport. And, this year, game two of the Ampol State of Origin Series (17 June) is being played at the mighty MCG. It’s Queensland versus New South Wales, maroon versus blue, as

these two teams come head-to-head in an unmatched display of intensity. The Queensland team currently holds the State of Origin Shield – in fact, it has won 25 titles to NSW’s 17 (two were drawn) – so you can bet the NSW Blues will be putting everything on the line to even the score in Melbourne.

WHAT’S ON

Melbourne is built for major events, with an infrastructure, connectivity and event delivery that sets it apart. The MCG holds the record for the largest crowd to ever attend a State of Origin game – 91,513 spectators in 2015 – so you can expect the city to be buzzing when it returns. The sporting precinct is within walking distance to both Richmond Station and Jolimont Station, and trams along Swan Street and Wellington Parade stop close to the ground too. From the stadium, walk back to the midweek energy in the city along the riverfront path shoulder-to-shoulder with other fans, or head out to top venues in the inner suburbs to extend the fun long after the final whistle.

Grace Petrou

EVENT CAPITAL

POST-GAME PROMISE

Butchers Diner

Ferdi Photography

Hyped after the game? There’s plenty to do. In Richmond, Swan Street is always primed for a sporting crowd. It’s where you’ll find the Corner Hotel. Best-known as a live music venue, it also has a great rooftop bar and kitchen that’s open till late. Back in the city, another good option is Good Nature Hotel in Fed Square or Butchers Diner, a popular spot for burgers and steaks, plus it’s open till 1am. Everyone loves a kick-on at Supper Club, and you can get a late meal here at Greek restaurant Kafeneion. + nrl.com

Corner Hotel

Jesse Hisco

GAME DAY, MELBOURNE STYLE

MAKE THE MOST OF THE MOMENTOUS 2026 NFL MELBOURNE GAME BY TAKING CLASSIC GAME DAY GRUB AND GIVING IT A MELBOURNE SPIN.

Hickens Hotel

Peter Tarasiuk

NFL at the MCG

THE BIG DAY

PRE-GAME PREP

Melbourne is one of the world capitals of sport, and the action just gets bigger. American football is heading here for the first-ever regular NFL season game to be played in Australia. The Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers will make history when they run onto the MCG on 11 September. Whether you’re already a fan or simply love sport, this is a rare opportunity to experience the thrills, entertainment and excitement of America’s most-watched sport. Get planning this winter, and head to Melbourne early to soak up the Game Week atmosphere. Stay tuned for more details on Game Week fan events and activations.

In the United States, game day comes with traditions: tailgating, mariachi performances at SoFi Stadium for the Rams, and a strict red and gold dress code for 49ers fans. Then there’s the food: shareable, eaten with fingers, maybe a little messy. Think chicken wings, nachos, hot dogs and coolers of beer. Sports bars have that last option covered. Abe’s Athletic Hall at Hickens Hotel is an adult playground, with arcade games, cold beers and, of course, sport on the big screens. Feel the stadium vibrations at The Duke of Wellington. It’s a favourite with sports fans, just a short walk from the MCG and the city’s oldest licensed pub.

AMERICAN FLAVOUR, MELBOURNISED Put a spin on the typical dishes you’d either eat at the game or afterwards. Instead of buffalo wings, head to Buza Chicken for Korean fried bird and tteok-bokki, which makes a great sub for mac and cheese. Chasing that smoked-brisket hit? Try a local classic at Stalactites, where tender, chargrilled meats are carved straight from the spit and wrapped into souvlaki with salad and homemade tzatziki. Upgrade a pulled pork sandwich with one of the offerings from Heartbaker Bun Mee. You can’t go past the fully loaded crispy pork bánh mì and a Vietnamese iced coffee. + ticketmaster.com.au/nfl + visitmelbourne.com/nfl

WHAT’S ON

Stalactites

Emily Godfrey

HEART OF THE ARTS SEE A STAGE SHOW, STROLL AROUND AN EXHIBITION OR GET A FESTIVAL FIX, WITH THE BEST OF ARTS AND CULTURE COMING TO MELBOURNE THIS WINTER.

ROME: Empire, Power, People at Melbourne Museum

Australian Dance Biennale at RISING

THE RIGHT MOVES

STAGE AND SCREEN

ON DISPLAY

RISING (until 8 June) is Melbourne’s festival of new music, art and performance. This year, the festival’s Australian Dance Biennale presents a city-wide platform for choreography including Defend the Throne at Hamer Hall and a free mass dance event at Fed Square. The Flinders Street Ballroom reopens for Land of 1000 Dances, hosting public classes across styles for all ages and abilities. ♦ At ACMI, take a journey into sound at The Vinyl Factory: Reverb (until 31 August). + 2026.rising.melbourne + acmi.net.au

Musical lovers are covered this season with Pretty Woman: The Musical (from 14 July), SIX: The Musical (from 24 July) and A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical (from 5 August) on at the Regent, Comedy and Princess theatres respectively. ♦ It’s also every movie lover’s favourite time of year. The Melbourne International Film Festival (6–23 August), known by all as MIFF, brings independent local and international films, both features and shorts, to Melbourne’s screens, from the central city to the suburbs. + marrinergroup.com.au + miff.com.au

The Melbourne Winter Masterpieces®: CARTIER exhibition (from 12 June) is an Australian exclusive showcase, featuring extraordinary objects from around the world. ♦ Delve into history at Melbourne Museum’s ROME: Empire, Power, People with a Brunetti Classico pop-up serving Italian favourites. ♦ The Royal Botanic Gardens glow after dark at immersive exhibition Lightscape (12 June – 2 August). + ngv.melbourne + museumsvictoria.com.au + lightscape.com

BE DAZZLED BY CARTIER, AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST EVER DISPLAY OF THE WORK OF THE FAMOUS JEWELLERY HOUSE.

ALL THAT GLITTERS

ORIGIN STORY

STARS IN THEIR EYES Known for its collections, including Love, Panthère and Tank watches, Cartier has long been a staple in the wardrobes of royalty and superstars. In fact, in 1904, King Edward VII proclaimed the house “the jeweller of kings and the king of jewellers”. The exhibition includes the famous diamond and ruby necklace gifted to Elizabeth Taylor in 1957, and a diamond rose clip brooch worn by Princess Margaret at Queen Elizabeth’s coronation in 1953.

LOCAL CONNECTIONS

Melbourne Winter Masterpieces®: CARTIER Above: Necklace, Cartier London, special order, 1932, Commissioned by Lady Granard, One 143.23-carat emerald, diamonds and platinum; Cartier Collection Vincent Wulveryck, Cartier Collection © Cartier

Many of the pieces in the exhibition come from London’s Victoria & Albert Museum and have never been seen in Australia. One famous Australian, however, was an early client of Cartier and necklaces and bodice pieces worn by Dame Nellie Melba, both on and off the stage, will feature in the exhibition. + ngv.melbourne 21

WHAT’S ON

Paris, 1847: Louis-François Cartier acquires his master’s workshop. His son Alfred takes over the business 27 years later, but it is Alfred’s sons, Louis, Pierre and Jacques, who take Cartier to the world. Now, NGV International is welcoming Melbourne Winter Masterpieces®: CARTIER (from 12 June). The exhibition features nearly 400 pieces, including necklaces, brooches, timepieces, design drawings and, of course, tiaras, with the exquisite Manchester Tiara, containing more than 1,400 diamonds, displayed as the exhibition’s opening piece.

Mitch Lowe

GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGHTS

EVEN IN THE COOLER MONTHS, IT IS ONE OF MELBOURNE’S FAVOURITE ATTRACTIONS, BLENDING NATURE, HISTORY AND AWARDWINNING EVENTS.

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne Lightscape 2026

FOR EARLY RISERS

AFTERNOON ACTION

There’s nothing better than starting the day surrounded by nature, and that’s right on the city’s doorstep at Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. Grab a hot drink from The Observatory Kiosk before joining either a free guided walk or an Aboriginal Heritage Walk (bookings are essential for both). You can also jump aboard The Explorer, an open-air minibus with live commentary while cruising through the highlights of the Gardens.

Why not have lunch at The Terrace Café, overlooking Ornamental Lake? It’s the perfect place to reflect and refuel before exploring the Gardens. There’s still plenty to see in bloom in the cooler months. Look for the daffodils on Oak Lawn or head towards the Herb Garden where you’ll find the Garden’s collection of camellias.

BRIGHT LIGHTS The winter wonderland of Lightscape (12 June – 2 August) returns with a new trail and spectacular new collection of artworks and installations created by leading artists from around the world, including Australian and First Peoples talent. This magical after-dark experience is unlike anything else you’ll see in Melbourne this winter. And with the new Anzac Station now open, it’s easier to get to than ever before. + rbg.vic.gov.au + lightscape.com/melbourne

Broadway Cast

HEAR THE NOISE WHAT’S ON

Broadway Cast

A Beautiful Noise

THE BROADWAY SMASH BASED ON THE LIFE OF NEIL DIAMOND IS HEADING TO MELBOURNE. GOOD TIMES NEVER FELT SO GOOD.

SMASH HIT Did you know Neil Diamond has sold more than 140 million albums? Or that his huge hit Hot August Night is celebrating its 54th birthday this year? Now the stage musical based on his life, A Beautiful Noise (from 5 August), is making its Australian debut at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre.

CREATIVE GENIUS The man behind the music, Neil Diamond himself, was a collaborator on A Beautiful Noise. The show tells the story of his rise from Brooklyn boy to American rock icon, one who’s had a string of hits – ‘Forever in Blue Jeans’, ‘Solitary Man’ and, of course, ‘Sweet Caroline’ – is an inductee into

the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the winner of a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

SONG SUNG TRUE A Beautiful Noise has garnered rave reviews on Broadway. For its Melbourne run, two actors, Will Swenson (as Neil Diamond – Then) and Terence Crawford (as Neil Diamond – Now), will play the singer. Swenson has portrayed Diamond on Broadway, while Crawford has a 45-year career on Australian stages and screens. This production features a live band and more than 25 of the legend’s hits and lesser-known tunes. Get ready to sing, sing a song! + theneildiamondmusical.com.au 23

Inner Melbourne

FUN FACTS FOR WINTER Matt Convery / Kaia Delaney

Melbourne dim sim

Rob Blackburn

Emily Godfrey

IT’S A CITY WITH ITS FAIR SHARE OF QUIRKS AND STORIES. EVEN IF YOU’VE BEEN HERE BEFORE, THESE MELBOURNE FACTOIDS MIGHT SURPRISE YOU.

BEHIND THE CLOCKS For five decades, the lavish ballroom inside Flinders Street Station was all but forgotten and fell into disrepair. It has since been partially restored and is used sporadically for events, including during RISING (until 8 June).

DUMPLING FUN

THE LOCAL GAME

Melbourne is the home of dim sims. Chef William Wing Young began serving them in the 1940s at his Chinatown restaurant Wing Lee, adapting Cantonese siu mai for local tastes.

The first competitive game of Australian Rules football was played in 1858 between Melbourne Grammar and Scotch College. It took three Saturdays to complete.

COFFEE KEEPSAKE In 2009, Melbourne siblings Abigail and Jamie Forsyth realised how many takeaway coffee cups were being used every day and invented the KeepCup, creating one of the world’s most successful sustainability products.

COOL COPYCATS They will imitate almost anything, and superb lyrebirds sing loudest and longest in winter. Go walking at Sherbrooke Forest in the Dandenong Ranges, just 40 kilometres from central Melbourne, for a good chance of hearing them.

CRIMINAL ELEMENT

CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

Legend persists that 1920s gangster Squizzy Taylor used Melbourne tunnels as escape routes, but definitive historical evidence remains limited. The discovery of a passageway under a disused factory in Richmond in 2013, however, seems to support the claims.

Melbourne has one of the densest networks of galleries, theatres and libraries in Australia, as well as more live music venues per capita than any other city globally. This concentration of cultural institutions reinforces the city’s reputation as a creative capital. 25

INNER MELBOURNE

Dandenong Ranges

Princess Theatre

THE CITY HEATS UP

Firelight Festival

THE CITY HITS ITS STRIDE THIS TIME OF YEAR. GROUNDBREAKING CREATIVITY MEETS UNTETHERED EXPLORATION. WHATEVER YOU’RE INTO, INCLUDING FASHION, FOOD AND FESTIVALS, YOU’LL FIND IT HERE.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT The night lights up at Firelight Festival (3–5 July) at Docklands. There’ll be fiery installations from some of the city’s hottest artists, as well as live music, pop-up food stalls and so much more. Later in the season, some of the city’s best-known landmarks are taken over during Now or Never (19–30 August), a festival of art, ideas, sound and technology. Swap festival beats for theatre seats at SIX the Musical (from 24 July) at the Comedy Theatre. It’s the hit show where Tudor queens

meet pop princesses in 500 years of history remixed into an electrifying pop concert.

THE RETAIL FIX The city is well known for its diverse and eclectic shopping scene, spanning high-end labels, independent boutiques and pre-loved vintage finds. Refresh your look at Above the Clouds, where a mix of incredible independent labels from around the world come together alongside the most-coveted shoes,

INNER MELBOURNE

Flinders Street Station

accessories and lifestyle products. There’s lots to do in Melbourne, so you need comfy shoes and the best place to get them is Bared Footwear. Its range of winter boots is exceptional. Then check out the fun clothing, designed by women for women, at Queen Victoria Women’s Centre Shop. This feminist gift store also stocks jewellery, body and beauty products, and homewares.

PHENOMENAL FOR FOODIES Australia’s culinary capital has more than 3,500 restaurants and cuisines from more than 70 countries shaping its dining scene. At Wong’s Late Night Hot Pot, choose your base, from spicy Sichuan to mushroom soup, then add whatever other ingredients you fancy, and you’ve got one of the city’s favourite winter dishes. Another cold weather favourite is cheese fondue, and you can get dipping at Edelwyss Bistro

Wong’s Late Night Hot Pot

& Bar in Flinders Lane. There are plenty of other Swiss dishes to enjoy too, including bratwurst and apple strudel. Craving a roast lunch? The Lincoln is one of the city’s favourite old-school pubs. Enjoy a full roast dinner in front of the fire on Sundays. For more information on all there is to do in the city, drop into the Melbourne Visitor Hub at Town Hall or visit the website. + whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au

Jeremy Shaw

FROM TOKYO TO THE SHELF A GLOBALLY RECOGNISED JAPANESE BOOKSTORE ARRIVES AT MELBOURNE CENTRAL, BRINGING A DISTINCT MIX OF LITERATURE, DESIGN, MANGA AND CULTURE

A CITY OF BOOKS This is a UNESCO City of Literature, so the latest Melbourne Central arrival is an excellent addition to our array of bookstores. Head to level two to find the new Books Kinokuniya, which opens its doors this winter. Originally established in Japan in 1927, Kinokuniya is now a globally recognised bookstore

Books Kinokuniya

offering a huge range of titles – literature, popular fiction, art and design, cooking, children’s books and much more – in English, Chinese and Japanese. Plus, it has become the destination for fans of pop culture, manga, anime and comics, with a wide variety of titles and merchandise.

FIND YOUR PEOPLE Kinokuniya is about more than selling books, though. It’s a unique space where readers, creatives and those with curious minds can come together and explore global publishing, culture and ideas. Another of its big attractions is its stationery department, filled with papers, pens, notebooks and much more from Japan, as well as gifts and lifestyle products. It’s the perfect destination when you’re searching out a present, whether for a younger sibling, bookish friend or yourself.

Books Kinokuniya is just one of the many reasons to visit Melbourne Central, your all-in-one retail, dining and entertainment precinct. Look up to see the famous Coop’s Shot Tower, built in 1890, and the Marionette Watch – on the hour, cockatoos and koalas parade to ‘Waltzing Matilda’ – before doing some shopping. There’s the LEGO® Certified Store, as well as lots of fashion and beauty options. Head to ELLA to find an array of eateries, serving all types of cuisine from sushi to tacos. Then there’s HOYTS, with its new IMAX screens, as well as the family fun of Strike Bowling. Spend a few hours or all day at Melbourne Central. + melbournecentral.com.au

Books Kinokuniya

Coop’s Shot Tower

INNER MELBOURNE

ONE-STOP DESTINATION

LIVE THE HIGH LIFE

TAKE TO THE SKIES, FLOAT OVER OR TOUCH DOWN IN VIC’S REGIONS FOR LUNCH OR A SKI, AND BE BACK IN THE CITY BY EVENING.

ON THE BREEZE

Global Ballooning

Soar above vineyards, farmland and native bushland and forest on an earlymorning hot-air balloon flight over the Yarra Valley. Whether you choose to lift

off with Go Wild Ballooning or Global Ballooning (which also has easyaccess baskets for passengers with mobility issues, including wheelchair users), you can organise city transfers and a delicious post-flight breakfast as part of the package. Enjoy all that epic scenery – you might even see kangaroos during your flight – and be back in the city by lunchtime. There are also balloon flights available over Melbourne and Geelong (with Go Wild). + gowildballooning.com.au + globalballooning.com.au

Emble Studio Kirk Richards

INNER MELBOURNE

Mount Hotham

FLYING HIGH Want to spend a day skiing on Mount Hotham? In winter, Adventure Flight Co has a full-day experience. Leaving early by light aircraft from Essendon Airport, it’s a 50-minute flight to the mountain before you’ll meet backcountry guides from Hotham Snowsports who can cater for any level of experience. ♦ Spend the day in the glorious King Valley by flying with Avia Aviation from Moorabbin to Brown Brothers at Milawa. It’s a 40-minute journey there, travelling

12 Apostles

over the Victorian countryside to the winery, where you’ll have lunch at its one-hat restaurant with matched wines. If you like, you can then take a bike ride into the town to sample locally made cheese. + adventureflightco.com.au + aviaaviation.com.au

HELI VENTURE There’s no more exciting way to travel than by helicopter. With Microflite Aviation, climb aboard in the city for a half-day scenic tour of the 12 Apostles.

In just over an hour, after flying along the Shipwreck Coast, you’ll land at the Visitor Information Centre with time to walk around and view the epic scenery before flying back. ♦ Rotor One offers a similar package that can be extended to a full day to include lunch and a visit to the Phillip Island Penguin Parade. Both companies offer options to the Mornington Peninsula, with time for bathing at thermal springs or lunch at a Yarra Valley winery. + microflite.com.au + rotor.one

Landmarks & Laneways

LANDMARKS AND LANEWAYS Reece Calculli

Solace

Steven Chau

MELBOURNE SHOWS ITS EDGE IN WINTER. IN THE LANEWAYS, NEW OPENINGS, STREET ART AND INDEPENDENT STYLE CAPTURE THE CITY’S CREATIVE SPIRIT.

NEW IN TOWN

SUBCULTURE SCENE

SHOP STARS

New to Russell Street is Ginza Kagari, famous in Tokyo. Refined ramen bowls are crafted with thoughtful process and quality ingredients, plus there’s Asahi on tap. Try the signature creamy tori paitan soba or the brothless mazesoba. ♦ Flavours from the other side of the world are featured at Boon Choou Thai diner, bringing together dishes from across the country’s regions. Order popiah sod (fresh spring rolls) or kuay tiew lord (pork belly rice noodle dumplings) or head upstairs to Joop Joop, the new cocktail bar that pairs Thai-inspired drinks with small plates. ♦ Then dance till dawn at Solace, the newest addition to Melbourne’s electronic music scene. + ginzakagari.com.au + boonchoou.com + findsolace.com.au

Melbourne’s laneways have always been known for their street art, with murals, paste-ups and other designs constantly changing and being replaced. Head to Meyers Place, AC/ DC Lane and the original graffiti street, Hosier Lane, to check out what’s new. Unsurprisingly, tattoo parlours and artists can also be found in the laneways, their work often reflecting the surrounding street art. Keen to wear your art beneath your sleeve? Book well in advance for Studio Absent or try Blue Lady Tattoo, which takes walk-ins. + studioabsent.com + blue-lady-tattoo.com

Head down a laneway to find some incredible hidden boutiques. Melbourne loves dark, avantgarde fashion, and Japanese label Comme des Garçons, by legendary designer Rei Kawakubo, offers that in abundance. The Somerset Place store offers selections from about seven of the brand’s lines, as well as its perfumes and pieces from the Converse collaboration. ♦ If you love designer fashion and preloved pieces, head to In Wang Vintage, where you’ll find a collection of rare and niche luxury bags, shoes and accessories. ♦ For big-name streetwear, from Adidas to Song For The Mute, try Up There. This is style you can wear anywhere. + comme-des-garcons.com.au + inwangvintage.com + uptherestore.com

LANDMARKS & LANEWAYS

Boon Choou

Laneways Map

Sutherland St

Melbourne Melbourne CentralCentral

Sniders Ln Sniders Ln

Caledonian 239 Ln

Caledonian Ln

Driver Ln

259 Somerset Pl Postal Ln

Driver Ln

259

Whitehart Ln

Somerset Pl Rankins Ln

Niagara Ln Whitehart Ln

Niagara LnLn Hardware

Hardware Ln Goldie Pl

Goldie Pl

Emporium Emporium Melbourne Melbourne

Postal Ln

Hardware Ln

Racing Club Ln Hardware Ln Warburton Ln Racing Club Ln Rankins Ln Warburton Ln

Lt Bourke LtSt Bourke St

Bourke St MallSt Mall Bourke

The Causeway The Causeway

McKillop St

151

McKillop St

151

BOURKE BOURKE ST ST

Royal Arcade Royal Arcade

Carson Pl

Howey Pl

Carson Pl

Howey Pl

Block Pl

Equitable Pl

Bank Pl

Equitable Pl

Lt CollinsLtStCollins St

Dame Dame Edna Pl Edna Pl Presgrave Presgrav Pl

Block Arc Block 5 Arc

220 220 Manchester Ln

Manchester Ln Centre Pl

Centre Pl

Bligh Pl57

Fulham Pl Bligh Pl

Fulham Pl

COLLINS COLLINS ST ST

Scott Al

City City LibraryLibrary Degraves St

342 342

Degraves St

Bond St

Flinders Flinders Ln Ln

Cathedral Ar Cathedral Ar

FLINDERS FLINDERS ST ST Flinders St Flinders St Station Station

Drewery Ln SWANSTON ST

DreweryDrewery Pl Pl Drewery Ln

352 352

ELIZABETH ST

Hardware St

Hardware St Finlay Av

Finlay QUEEN STAv

QUEEN ST 1

Bond St

Take a tour of the laneways and other city spots with an expert guide to discover local favourites Immigration Immigration Museum and hiddenMuseum delights. + visitvictoria.com/melbournetours

Knox Pl Knox Pl Melbourne Melbourne Central Central Station Station

LONSDALE LONSDALE ST ST

Market St

Bank Pl

1. Patricia The key to the quality of this standing-only coffee spot is simplicity: an exceptional house roast as well as a batch-brewed filter option. 2. Hardware Société The hot chocolate here is made with 54 per cent dark couverture chocolate, so it’s a rich way to warm up your day. 3. Mjølner At this Scandi restaurant, you can order the Blazing Glögg, consisting of cognac and spiced port, served hot and on fire. 4. Little Rogue Said to have the best matcha latte in Melbourne, this tiny cafe also does a Japanese cherry-flavoured milk tea, known as a sakuratte. 5. The Tea Rooms 1892 Best known for its tantalising selection of cakes in the window display, this Block Arcade stalwart also has a wide selection of teas. 6. Mörk Chocolate Looking Glass The sweet favourite’s experimental concept store serves the signature campfire hot choc, cacao tea and speciality boozy chocolate drinks. 7. Bar Clara This cocktail venue’s mulled wine is so popular it has a takeaway version to heat at home.

GuildfordGuildford Ln Ln

Lt Lonsdale Lt Lonsdale St St

WILLIAM ST

Healeys Ln

Melbourne’s laneways and arcades offer plenty of good places to find warmth in a glass. + visitvictoria.com.au/laneways

LA TROBE LA TROBE ST ST Sutherland St

HOT STUFF

State Library Station

SPRING ST

Chinese Museum

Chinatown

Parliament House

Amphlett Ln Ridgway Pl

Sargood Ln

Howitt Ln

Old Treasury Building Museum

Throssell Ln

Collins Pl Malthouse Ln

Windsor Pl

Liverpool St Meyers Pl

Crossley St

153 75

80 Collins

Pink Alley

Alfred Pl

Duckboard Pl

East End Theatre District

George Pde Hosier Ln

Rutledge Ln

AC/DC Ln

Watson Pl

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Market Ln

Melbourne Pl Southern Cross Ln

120

St Paul’s Cathedral

Croft Al

Paynes Pl

Coverlid Pl

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180

Russell Pl

Rainbow Al

Melbourne Town Hall

Town Hall Station

Parliament Station

Punch Ln

Cohen Pl

Corrs Ln

Waratah Pl

Heffernan Ln

Celestial Av

Tattersalls Ln

Smythe Ln

Madame Brussells Ln

Greek Precinct

Oliver Ln

ve Pl

EXHIBITION ST

180

Wesley Pl

Albert Coates Ln

RUSSELL ST

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239

SWANSTON ST

State Library Victoria

3 minutes’ walk per block

Trams Federation Square City Ambassadors

Njord content

BLINK AND MISS IT

Casa Camino, Bar Ampere

SMALL IN SIZE BUT BIG ON FLAVOUR, THESE HOLE-IN-THE-WALL LANEWAY SPOTS PUNCH WELL ABOVE THEIR WEIGHT.

A TIGHT LINE-UP Whether you’re on your way to drinks or even dinner, stop by Muli Express, where a selection of oysters is ready to be shucked and slurped at the counter. ♦ Okay, Union Kiosk might also brew coffee, but it’s where folks come for vegan jaffles, including ones stuffed with black bean, salsa and guacamole or mushroom, basil, spinach and mozzarella. ♦ At 7 Alfred, there’s one dish and it’s a good one: steak frites, featuring a 200-gram O’Connor grass-

fed scotch fillet from Gippsland. There’s a choice of sauces, two desserts and an excellent drinks list too. + instagram.com/muli_express + unionkiosk.com.au + 7alfred.com.au

TINY BUT MIGHTY Get your caffeine fix at Dukes Coffee Roasters on Flinders Lane. There are a few seats, but most customers grab one of the specialty brews and maybe a pastry before heading off to their

Jackson Grant

LANDMARKS & LANEWAYS

Saluministi

Palace Coffee Roasters

next stop. ♦ The precisely brewed espresso, fresh pastries and rotating single-origin pours at the compact Palace Coffee Roasters on Drewery Lane will have you returning for another cup. ♦ Saluministi in Flinders Lane serves tightly packed focaccia sandwiches, filled with cured meats and Italian-style ingredients, over the street-side counter. + dukescoffee.com.au + instagram.com/palace_melbourne + saluministi.com.au

IN THE KNOW It’s a great spot for a slice but slip through the curtain at the back of Pizza, Pizza, Pizza and you’ll find a moody bar. It doesn’t have a name, but it does specialise in classic cocktails. ♦ There’s a secret passageway near the bathroom at Bar Ampere that is home to Casa Camino, a dark and very hidden space celebrating agave- and tequilainspired drinks. Pair a margarita with a tasty raclette, then who knows where the evening could lead? ♦ Discreet and

distinctive, and harnessing the spirit of Japanese hospitality, One or Two serves elevated cocktails in a sleek, small space. + pizzapizzapizza.com.au + barampere.com + oneortwo.com.au

LANEWAY STAYS WITH A TWIST ELEVATED AND UNEXPECTED

THE WHOLE CREW

CENTRAL AND CHIC

Book a family suite at Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer and not only are you directly across the road from Southern Cross Station to access other parts of the city easily, but there’s a complimentary Chocolate Hour at 2pm and a great pool kids will love. Want to spread out a bit more? Veriu Queen Victoria Market offers apartment-style stays opposite the market’s open sheds and internal laneways, with easy eats, space to roam and narrm ngarrgu Library’s kids’ areas a short walk away. + movenpick.accor.com + veriu.com.au

For something a little different, Lola by Escape the Ordinary pairs heritage character with a styled, two-bedroom apartment that feels more curated than conventional, looking out over Little Lonsdale Street. The Howey is a chic spot in an ideal location. It offers a central base just steps away from laneway arcades, boutiques, cafes and bars. + escapetheordinarycollection.com + causeway.com.au

Scott Hunter

Hotel No

LANDMARKS & LANEWAYS

It’s like camping out on a city rooftop. Hotel No consists of six vintage Airstream trailers with pink shower stalls, a free minibar and an iPad for in-bed Netflix binges. One trailer even has a private outdoor hot tub. For something more theatrical, QT Melbourne leans into designled interiors, with moody rooms, statement details and Yamagen, a newly opened izakaya-style Japanese restaurant off Portland Lane. + hotelno.melbourne + qthotels.com/melbourne

NOT YOUR STANDARD HOTEL LINE-UP. THINK CLEVER DESIGN, OFFBEAT IDEAS AND STAYS THAT FEEL ANYTHING BUT PREDICTABLE.

ORGANISER

EXHIBITION PARTNERS

MAJOR SPONSORS

MAJOR DONOR

CULTURAL PARTNERS

MEDIA PARTNER

MCG TOURS AND AUSTRALIAN SPORTS MUSEUM

LANDMARKS & LANEWAYS

WARNE: Treasures of a Legend

WARNE: TREASURES OF A LEGEND

See the coupon on page 132

DISCOVER THE HEART OF OUR SPORTING NATION WITH A VISIT TO THE MCG AND AUSTRALIAN SPORTS MUSEUM. SECRETS OF THE ’G

NO ORDINARY MUSEUM

Take an MCG Tour and go behind the scenes of the largest and most iconic stadium in the southern hemisphere. Led by a passionate MCC volunteer, the tour takes you through the players’ change rooms and the media centre. Then explore the famous Long Room and even walk the boundary line of the hallowed turf. Uncover the hidden secrets of an Australian landmark and walk in the footsteps of some of the world’s greatest sportspeople.

Explore the magic of the Australian Sports Museum, where immersive exhibits and treasured memorabilia bring the nation’s sporting culture to life. Relive moments that have shaped Australian sport, from AFL and cricket to Olympic triumphs. Then put your own skills to the test in the interactive space, Game On! Whether you’re young or old, a casual fan or a sports enthusiast, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t miss this world-first exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of legendary cricketer Shane Warne. Discover an extraordinary collection of personal items and career memorabilia from the King of Spin, including the Gatting Ball, his 1999 World Cup winner’s medal, the ball from his 700th Test wicket at the MCG, and his signature floppy white hat. + mcg.org.au + australiansportsmuseum.org.au

WHILE EXPLORING LANEWAYS CAN REVEAL HIDDEN GEMS, DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE CITY’S VERTICAL VERSIONS.

Eugene Hyland

GOING UP

Loop Roof

Mesa Verde

CURTIN HOUSE HEIGHTS

NOTABLE IN NICHOLAS

ABOVE THE BUSTLE

Melbourne’s original vertical laneway is Swanston Street’s Curtin House, which has an interesting history that includes a stint as the headquarters of both the Tattersalls Club and the Communist Party of Australia. Now, it is home to some of the city’s best restaurants, stores and bars. Find the latest collections from a local label focused on craftsmanship and detail at Kahe. Its neighbour is Metropolis Bookshop, which specialises in titles about design, architecture, art and culture. Hungry? Mesa Verde is the spot for Mexican food and agavebased spirits in a stylish setting. + kahe.shop + metropolisbookshop.com.au + mesaverde.net.au

The 1920s Nicholas Building is filled with artists, writers, designers and other creatives at work. On the ground floor is the stunning Cathedral Arcade, with popular Cathedral Coffee and the flagship store for Melbourne label Kuwaii. Head upstairs to RetroStar Vintage Clothing for a wide selection of pre-loved fashion. On the sixth floor, step into World Food Books. It defies expectation and is not the place to find recipes. Instead, explore ideas as sustenance. Expect radical, underground and unconventional voices through global art, design and experimental publishing. + kuwaii.com.au + retrostar.com.au + worldfoodbooks.com

Melburnians love a rooftop, whatever the season, so the city’s bar owners have made our favourites weatherproof. Loop Roof is an oasis in the city, with its lush gardens and panoramic views, plus it has a retractable roof and heaters for when the weather turns cold. Need a spot to meet up before a show? Cabinet Bar & Balcony, tucked into a lane near Melbourne Town Hall, has a list of martinis and cocktail jars, as well as excellent snacks. Goldilocks Rooftop Bar, above Swanston Street, is the perfect people-watching perch. Heaters and covered seating ensure it’s not too hot, not too cold, but just right. + looprooftopbar.com.au + cabinetbar.com.au + goldilocksbar.com.au

LANDMARKS & LANEWAYS

Nicholas Building

SHRINE OF REMEMBRANCE

MARVEL STADIUM

Discover one of the world’s most visited war memorials in Melbourne’s picturesque King’s Domain. The Shrine honours the service and sacrifice of Australians in war, peacekeeping and peacemaking. Explore its timeless architecture, wander the Galleries of Remembrance, and reflect on powerful personal stories. Enjoy stunning city views from the Balcony, as well as peaceful spaces for contemplation.

It’s one of the city’s premier destinations, with refreshed spaces and state-of-the-art technology within the vibrant surrounding precinct. See major sporting events and live entertainment where culture and community come together 365 days a year.

Free entry. Ticketed tours depart hourly from the Visitor Centre (except 1pm). Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne Train: Anzac Station Tram: Route 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 19 Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm (last entry 4.30pm) t: 03 9661 8100 w: shrine.org.au Find us on:

This AFL season, Marvel Stadium is hosting 46 matches, offering fans an unparalleled experience to enjoy Australia’s best-loved game. Aside from footy there are exciting free events scheduled at Stadium Square (Gate 2/3) including a live site NBA Finals watch party in June. 740 Bourke Street, Docklands Train: Southern Cross Station Tram: Route 11, 48, 86 and 96 towards Southern Cross Station. Route 30, 35 and 86 for La Trobe Street entrance. w: marvelstadium.com.au Find us on:

Kit Edwards

WINTER MARKET MAGIC FROM DAWN TILL DARK, SHOP, SAMPLE AND SAVOUR THE ATMOSPHERE AT QUEEN VIC MARKET.

LANDMARKS & LANEWAYS

Kit Edwards

Queen Vic Market

RIGHT AT NIGHT Rug up in your warmest winter gear before heading to the Queen Vic Market on Wednesday evenings (3 June – 26 August) for the fun and fantastic Winter Night Market. Wander among the stalls, sample some of Melbourne’s best street food and sip drinks made by local brewers and distillers, all with the backdrop of great live entertainment.

TAKE A TOUR During the day, join the Ultimate Foodie Tour, a culinary journey

See the coupon on page 132

through Queen Vic Market. Taste some of the finest produce, from delicious artisan cheeses to melt-inthe-mouth pastries, as your guide leads your small group through the many stalls, introducing you to the traders as you explore. Tours are held every Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 10am. Bookings essential.

Winter Night Market

for its huge selection of fresh and specialty produce in the Dairy Produce Hall. But there’s plenty more, including homewares, souvenirs and clothing in the sheds, as well as the creations of local makers and creators along String Bean Alley. + qvm.com.au + thenightmarket.com.au

FILL YOUR BASKET Queen Vic Market is Melbourne’s favourite place to shop. With almost 150 years of history, it is the city’s most authentic marketplace, best known 45

THE ROSE ST. ARTISTS’ MARKET In the heart of eclectic Fitzroy, The Rose St. Artists’ Market is packed to the rafters with always-original art and design. Showcasing hundreds of Melbourne’s freshest artists and makers, the market offers the opportunity to peruse numerous stall displays, collect, source and commission unique handmade works, and meet, greet and speak with artists and designers in person. If you’re a lover of all things handmade then look no further. Come along and experience it for yourself. 60 Rose Street, Fitzroy Tram: Route 11 to stop 17 or route 96 to stop 14 Open: Sat–Sun, 10am to 4pm t: 0414 803 228 w: rosestmarket.com.au Find us on:

MELBOURNE ZOO Experience a world of wildlife in the heart of Melbourne. Stay cosy in the balmy Butterfly House, explore the wonders of Wild Sea and discover native Australian animals like koalas and kangaroos – there’s always something exciting happening at Melbourne Zoo. Don’t miss the 15 daily animal talks led by our zookeepers, all included with your ticket. For a truly unforgettable adventure, check out the premium animal experiences. Kids visit free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays. Elliott Avenue, Parkville Train: Upfield Line, Royal Park Station Tram: Route 58 to stop 26 Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm t: 1300 966 784 w: zoo.org.au/melbourne Find us on:

OLD TREASURY BUILDING Discover Melbourne’s history, heritage and people. Built at the height of the gold rush, the magnificent Old Treasury Building hosts a variety of displays centred on the history of Melbourne. Uncover the development of the city, from fledgling village to modern metropolis. Explore the basement gold vaults to discover the Victorian gold rush of the 1850s. Join a paid tour on the last Sunday of the month. Admission is free. See the website to book. 20 Spring Street, Melbourne Open: Sun–Fri, 10am to 4pm (closed Saturdays) w: oldtreasurybuilding.org.au Find us on:

Eat & Drink

EAT AND DRINK

Lune Lonsdale

Embla

ALL THE LATEST

PUB LIFE

BEST IN GLASS

It’s been dubbed Maxi Lune and is twice the size of the original Fitzroy store. Head to Lune Lonsdale, watch the pastry chefs in action, and try some of the best croissants you’ll find outside of Paris. ♦ The K-wave rolls on with the opening of Seoul Tiger 1988, with its twist on American classics. Expect bulgogi-inspired cheeseburgers, Korean fried chicken burgers, corndogs and buttermilk soft-serve sundaes. ♦ After something new, but on a budget? Frenchie, as the name suggests, is a French bistro where everything – dishes, cocktails, caviar bumps – is $14. + lunecroissanterie.com + instagram.com/seoultiger1988 + frenchierestaurant.au

Head to Mitre Tavern, just off Bank Place. One of the city’s oldest pubs, it has a strong line-up of local beers and generous pub classics like the Mitre’s beef and Guinness pie, just the thing on a chilly evening. ♦ The Sherlock Holmes Inn on Collins Street has snug, low-lit rooms, British memorabilia and tucked-away corners alongside the front bar for a quick pint and classic pub fare. ♦ Head downstairs at The Block Arcade to the Charles Dickens Tavern for a warm, woodlined interior, hearty dishes and an easy pre-game atmosphere. + mitretavern.com.au + thesherlockholmes.com.au + thecharlesdickenstavern.com.au

You’re spoiled for choice with wine bars in Melbourne, and Embla pairs a thoughtful wine list with top-notch bar snacks. It’s cosy, too. ♦ If you’re looking for the local equivalent of an enoteca, try City Wine Shop, where you can choose a bottle to have with a plate of pasta. ♦ Melbourne Winery, on Flinders Lane, has a cellar door for tastings, a restaurant that specialises in food and wine matching, and events including monthly masterclasses. + embla.com.au + citywineshop.net.au + melbournewinery.com.au

EAT & DRINK

WINTER SHARPENS THE SENSES. IN MELBOURNE, EATING WELL IS PART OF THE CULTURE AND THIS SEASON DRAWS OUT RICHER FLAVOURS, SEASONAL PRODUCE AND ROBUST LOCAL REDS.

Florentino & Gavin Green

FIRE IT UP

Café Florentino

WHEN FIRE LEADS IN THE KITCHEN, FLAVOUR FOLLOWS. CHARCOAL, EMBERS AND SMOKE ARE SHAPING SOME OF THE CITY’S TASTIEST JOINTS.

THE KITCHEN IS LIT At Hazel, fire and smoke shape the menu, while chef Lauren See works with the harvest calendar for her takes on charcoal chicken, grilled market fish and a 10-day-aged duck crown. Meanwhile, one of Melbourne’s oldest restaurants, Florentino, has entered a new era. With a change in ownership comes Café Florentino, a Tuscan grill. Here, flathead, locally raised steaks

and lamb get flamed over a wood-fired grill. Rockpool Bar & Grill focuses firmly on steak. Its pasture-to-plate program ensures only top-quality beef hits the wood-fired grill. There are also grilled king prawns, calamari, halloumi and more on the menu. + hazelrestaurant.com.au + florentino.melbourne + rockpoolbarandgrill.com.au

EAT & DRINK

Find American barbecue at Fancy Hank’s, where the smoky brisket and pork ribs are cooked low and slow for 16 hours. While it’s a steakhouse at heart, Meatmaiden also gets all fired up for dishes like smoked whole pig croquettes and smoked lamb ribs with black vinegar. Take a tram to Port Melbourne for Big Earle’s Roadhouse Barbecue, where it feels like Texas has come to Melbourne – walk-ins only, dog- and kid-friendly and serving up big plates of smoked goodness. On Fridays and Saturdays, there’s a BYO bar ($8 per drinker) and live music. + fancyhanks.com + meatmaiden.com.au + instagram.com/bigearlesbbq

Chip Mooney

WHERE THERE’S SMOKE

GLOBAL GRILLS

Fancy Hank’s

Jenn Fluri

Many traditional cuisines use fire as a cooking source, and you can taste them right across Melbourne. Try Japanese robata’s hot charcoal flavours – hakusai (cabbage) with king brown mushrooms and speck, crispy pork belly with nashi pear, miso-glazed toothfish – at Yamagen. Meanwhile, the Argentine traditional parrilla grill brings char and smoke to meat and vegetables, from short ribs to pumpkin, at San Telmo. Filipino flavours come to the fore at Serai, where they meet the heat of the wood-fired grill. Don’t miss the lamb ribs with sticky adobo sauce and Port Lincoln calamari with smoked longganisa nduja. + yamagenmelbourne.com.au + santelmo.com.au + seraikitchen.com.au

Yamagen

“

THE YIAGA EXPERIENCE

COFFEE CRAFT

YES, CHEF!

Arrive a little early and walk through Fitzroy Gardens to settle into the experience. Both lunch and dinner have their own beauty. At lunch, the gardens are more on show, but at night it can feel more intimate – the lighting and overall mood are beautiful.

My coffee order’s usually just a flat white. Market Lane Coffee is a regular stop for me on the way to work. We also use its coffee at Yiaga, so it’s a product I really believe in.

MEET HUGH ALLEN, CHEF AND OWNER OF YIAGA, A FINE-DINING RESTAURANT SET IN FITZROY GARDENS.

WINE PAIRING

Head to the National Gallery of Victoria, then on to the theatre for a play or show and, if it’s your thing, finish with a nightcap somewhere in town like Lui Bar or Apollo Inn.

Jason Loucas

We are really enjoying Bandicoot Run Pinot Noir, produced by some really exciting young makers. Another great one is Jamsheed Riesling. For something special, the Bass Phillip Rare Pinot Noir, from a respected Victorian producer, is pretty stunning, too.

LOCAL HAUNTS Some places I keep going back to have great atmosphere, food and teams behind them, like France Soir, Flower Drum, Di Stasio Città and Gimlet. I also love ramen, and Melbourne’s full of great options.

Hugh Allen

VIC’S REGIONS My favourite part of regional Victoria is the High Country’s alpine areas. I spent a lot of time there as a kid, especially around Beechworth. And of course, Dan Hunter at Brae [Great Ocean Road] has been helping define a thoughtful, farm-to-table approach at a high level for over a decade. + yiaga.au

” Jason Loucas

Jason Loucas

Kangaroo and maitake at Yiaga

UNMISSABLE MELBOURNE

Yiaga

Tim sonmez

II.II.VI

Jesse Hisco

DOWN UNDER

KEEP IN MIND THESE OUT-OF-SIGHT RESTAURANTS AND BARS IN SPACES HIDDEN BELOW THE CITY STREETS AND LANDMARKS.

EAT & DRINK

Bodega Underground

BRUNCH BRILLIANCE

BENEATH THE SURFACE

COCKTAIL HOUR

Bodega Underground is much-loved for its excellent Mexican menu with plenty of options for vegans. On the weekends it also hosts a bottomless brunch, featuring chilaquiles, birria tacos and churros, as well as a range of cocktails and mocktails, wine and Tecate beer. Or, for a more Italianleaning lunch paired with drinks by acclaimed mixologist Matt Bax, Cellar Caffetteria sits beneath The Lodge Little Collins, Rodd & Gunn’s global flagship store. + bodegaunderground.com.au + roddandgunn.com/restaurants

Modern Thai flavours and seasonally changing cocktails are the drawcard at Dessous, where the old-world interior feels a far cry from the bustle of Flinders Lane, glimpsed through the ceiling-height windows. Also on Flinders Lane is II.II.VI (pronounced two-two-six), a contemporary finedining restaurant where dishes are prepared over flames and charcoal, inspired by the cooking techniques of Japan, South America and Spain. + dessous.com.au + 226.au

Under Flinders Street Station, in its bluestone foundations, discover Miss Gunn’s Basement Bar, an intimate space with speakeasy swagger, for perfectly crafted cocktails and seasonal snacks. Or go through the bookcase at its larger sister venue, State of Grace, and venture down the stairs to Fall From Grace, with its vintage, candle-lit vibe and extensive drinks list. + clocksatflinders.com.au/missgunns + stateofgracemelbourne.com.au

Scan the QR code to learn more SCAN ME

NAKED FOR SATAN

THE TEA ROOMS 1892

Perched above Brunswick Street in the middle of Fitzroy, Naked for Satan serves up a lively rooftop bar and a pizza parlour with pool tables downstairs. Upstairs, sweeping skyline views set the scene for long lunches, sunset drinks and late nights, with cocktails, craft beers and houseinfused vodkas alongside tasty share plates. Equal parts impressive and unpretentious, it’s a go-to for locals and visitors chasing atmosphere, flavour and one of the city’s most memorable outlooks.

The Tea Rooms 1892 are a must-visit for anyone who comes to Melbourne. The first tenant of The Block Arcade when it opened on 14 October 1892, the famous tea rooms have been serving cakes, sandwiches, tea and scones, all made daily on site, for more than 134 years. Although changing names three times in its storied history, this is the oldest tea room in Australia. Be sure to book for the delicious high tea. @thetearooms1892

285 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy Tram: Route 11 to stop 16 Bus: Route 200, 200–207, 207 and 241 to stop 938 Open: Mon–Thur, 12pm to 12am; Fri–Sat, 12pm to 1am; Sun, 12pm to 10pm. t: 03 9416 2238 w: nakedforsatan.com.au Find us on:

Shops 1 and 2, The Block Arcade, 280 Collins Street, Melbourne Open: Mon–Fri, 8am to 5pm; Sat–Sun, 9am to 5pm w: thetearooms1892.com.au Find us on:

Aboriginal Victoria

ABORIGINAL VICTORIA

Wurrdha Marra, Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia

Jim Arneman

GET A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF THIS LAND AND THE FIRST PEOPLES OF VICTORIA THROUGH THE SHARING OF STORIES, ART AND THEIR ENDURING CONNECTION TO COUNTRY.

TO SEE THIS SEASON

EXPLORING CULTURE

TAKE A WALK

RISING (until 8 June) welcomes this year’s First Peoples Melbourne Art Trams, with six new works hitting the tracks. Also part of the program is Flower Power, a walk-through field of reflections, by Barkindji artist, Kent Morris, at City Square. ♦ Find out more about history at Treaty, a collection of items related to the Batman Treaty, signed by John Batman and Victorian First Peoples leaders in June 1835 (declared invalid by the government of the time), on display at State Library Victoria. + 2026.rising.melbourne + slv.vic.gov.au

Visit Wurrdha Marra, a permanent, evolving gallery space at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia dedicated to the First Nations collection. See a wide range of work, from the historical to the contemporary, by First Peoples artists. ♦ Inside Melbourne Museum’s Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, explore Biik Milboo Dhumba | Country Is Always Talking, in the Forest Gallery, to gain a deeper understanding of Victoria’s First Peoples and their connection to the natural environment. + ngv.melbourne + museumsvictoria.com.au

On the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne Aboriginal Heritage Walk, be led by a knowledgeable guide who will share how the gardens hold stories, knowledge and practical uses embedded in the landscape. ♦ Download the Yalinguth app and use its audio walks that share history through story, song and soundscapes. One goes through Ngár-go/Fitzroy, the other along the Birrarung/Yarra River. ♦ Further afield, near the town of Castlemaine, join Jaara Elder Uncle Rick Nelson of Waaman Tours. He welcomes visitors with a smoking ceremony, shows them scar and boundary trees, as well as his collection of artefacts, and serves a bush tucker morning tea. + rbg.vic.gov.au + yalinguth.com.au + waamantours.com.au

Left: Brook Andrew, Polemics 2000 neon, mirror, transparent synthetic polymer resin 172.5 × 102.3 cm National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Gift of the artist, 2002 © Brook Andrew/Copyright Agency, 2023 Photo: Christian Markel / NGVVictoria

ABORIGINAL VICTORIA

Treaty, State Library Victoria.

Daniel Boud

RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW

Bangarra Dance Theatre

MARVEL AT THE CREATIVE WORK BY VICTORIA’S FIRST PEOPLES ARTISTS, MUSICIANS AND DANCERS RIGHT ACROSS THE SEASON.

CREATIVE VISION FUTURE COUNTRY, the latest in the Country Road + NGV First Nations Commissions at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, shows the work of eight emerging First Peoples artists and designers who have been mentored by established Indigenous creatives. ♦ At Craft Victoria, Camp Stove (4 July – 29 August) is an exhibition and program series focusing on the experiences of Queer Blakfullas and

their techniques for survival. ♦ Head out of the city to Heide Museum of Modern Art in Bulleen and check out the work exploring cultural landscapes, collaborative storytelling and the importance of plants developed by nine artists on Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung land at Watch These Hands (from 4 July). + ngv.melbourne + craft.org.au + heide.com.au

ABORIGINAL VICTORIA

Bangarra Dance Theatre brings Sheltering (18–27 June) to Arts Centre Melbourne. This program of three powerful works, Keeping Grounded, Brown Boys and Sheoak, each looking at shelter as a sacred, transformative space, is intergenerational and honours the company’s past while looking to its future. ♦ Gumbaynggirr and Noongar singer Emma Donovan is well known for her expressive way around a tune. Now, she’s joining forces with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for Take Me to the River (10 July) at Arts Centre Melbourne. During this performance she’ll deliver some of her favourite soul classics, from singers like Al Green and Aretha Franklin. + bangarra.com.au + mso.com.au

Michelle Grace Hunder

MUSIC AND MOTION

MANY CELEBRATIONS

Emma Donovan

Justin Meneguzzi

Across interactive and immersive spaces at Arts House, a bit thing (24 June – 17 July) explores Blak neurodivergent perspectives using a wide scope of media from weaving to digital artwork. ♦ Head to Fed Square for NAIDOC in the City (10 July), featuring live music and cultural performances. There’ll also be kids’ activities, food trucks and the Koorie Heritage Trust (KHT) NAIDOC Market. With more than 20 First Peoples stallholders, it’s the place to shop for Indigenous fashion, art and crafts. Alongside the market, KHT will host workshops for all ages. More NAIDOC Week (5–12 July) events can be found online. + artshouse.com.au + fedsquare.com + kht.org.au

Koorie Heritage Trust

Arts & Culture

ARTS AND CULTURE Pierre Toussaint

Romeo & Juliet by The Australian Ballet

EXPLORE THE CITY’S CREATIVE SIDE AT GALLERIES, MUSEUMS AND THEATRES RIGHT ACROSS MELBOURNE.

There’s lots on offer at Melbourne’s premier winter festival, RISING, like EMERGENCE(Y) (from 5 June) at Science Gallery Melbourne. This living, evolving exhibition considers ecological instability, technological acceleration and social change and positions adaptation as a response. ♦ Step inside Melbourne during Open House Melbourne (24–26 July), offering mostly free access to more than 200 hidden, historic and contemporary sites usually closed to the public. ♦ See innovative work exploring materiality, technology, sustainability and community practice by the VCE’s most-talented students at Top Designs (until 26 July) at Melbourne Museum. + 2026.rising.melbourne + openhousemelbourne.org + museumsvictoria.com.au

ON THE STAGE

ART APART

A 90s movie classic comes to the stage, with Samantha Jade starring as Vivian in Pretty Woman: The Musical (from 14 July) at the Regent Theatre. ♦ See a majestic version of Shakespeare’s beloved Romeo & Juliet (6–16 June) when The Australian Ballet performs it at the Regent Theatre. ♦ At Arts Centre Melbourne, Eddie Izzard performs Shakespeare’s Hamlet (30 June – 12 July) is one of the season’s big tickets. Performed solo and on a bare stage, the Melbourne season follows extended runs in London, Chicago and New York. + prettywomanthemusical.com.au + australianballet.com.au + artscentremelbourne.com.au

Head to ACCA to explore the relationships between contemporary art and human emotion at the ambitious new exhibition Are you lonely tonight? I’m so lonesome I could cry (3 July – 30 August), featuring artwork by Polly Borland, Seth Brown and more. ♦ See pieces from the Cartier Collection in Melbourne Winter Masterpieces®: CARTIER (from 12 June), exploring five decades of jewellery, design and craftsmanship at NGV International. ♦ Add to your own collection at the Affordable Art Fair (27–30 August), with galleries from right across Australia participating. + acca.melbourne + ngv.melbourne + affordableartfair.com

ARTS & CULTURE

Top Designs at Melbourne Museum

BEST OF THE REST

HI-FI HANGOUTS Jack Hems

The Vinyl Factory: Reverb at ACMI

LISTENING ROOM CULTURE IS WELLLOVED IN MELBOURNE. PREPARE FOR EPIC TUNES, GREAT DRINKS AND MAYBE EVEN SOME TASTY MORSELS.

SOUND WAVES At ACMI's The Vinyl Factory: Reverb, The Listening Room (until 31 August) pairs high-fidelity sound with stillness. Day sessions invite slow listening, while nights bring close-range sets, talks and artist-led listening parties. One of Melbourne's first listening bars came courtesy of hospitality maven Con Christopoulos: Angel Music Bar has an epic sound system and

DJs. Need more? Make your way to the multistorey HER venue for more focused listening, superior speakers and dancing, upstairs in the music room. This sophisticated, intimate spot holds just 80 people and is designed so the listener feels as though they're hanging out in a speaker box. + acmi.net.au + instagram.com/angelmusicbar + her.melbourne

Hop on a tram from the city and head to Bar Selecta in Hawthorn. This 10-seat vinyl bar celebrates Japanese craft and local creativity, pairing jazz to city pop with inventive cocktails, curated sake and rare whiskies. At Brunswick East's Waxflower, it's hard to say whether the crowd or the staff members are cooler. The focus here is on natural wines and excellent cocktails teamed with a sound system loved by the DJs and record collectors who play rare grooves. There's also an above-par Peru-meets-Europe menu from chef Dave Falvey. + barselecta.co + waxflowerbar.com.au

Waxflower

ARTS & CULTURE

SUBURBAN TURNTABLES

HER Music Room

Duncographic/Duncan Jacob

Many local venues are inspired by Japan's original listening bars. At the heart of Disuko is its retro-cool vinyl bar, where you can kick back beneath the disco balls while the bartenders shake cocktails and DJs set the mood. LB's Record Bar has vinyl sourced from local music stores, a rotation of DJs and an agavefocused cocktail menu to get the party started. At the tiny-but-mighty Caretakers Cottage the decks are built into the bar where the beats and top shelf drinks are mixed. Its cocktail list appears regularly on “best of” lists around the world. + disuko.com.au + merivale.com + caretakerscottage.bar

Parker Blain

PRECISION BEATS

Daily guided tours of a cultural landmark

Arts Centre Melbourne Tours Monday – Saturday

Scan to book

FULL HOUSE ENERGY THIS SEASON, THE MELBOURNE THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS WORLD-CLASS PERFORMANCES, FROM CLASSICS REVISITED TO CONTEMPORARY EPICS. ARTS & CULTURE

COSMETIC CHALLENGES Melbourne Theatre Company’s line-up this winter includes screenwriter and playwright Marieke Hardy’s Losing Face (22 June – 25 July). Described as an unhinged, perimenopausal Weekend at Bernie’s, it stars Michala Banas, Genevieve Morris and Christie Whelan Browne. When an almost50-year-old travel writer invites her two best friends on a lavish trip to a wellness resort, they get more than the spa treatments they were expecting. Prepare for medical mishaps and some wildly unexpected side effects.

RUSSIAN REVIVAL One of Australia’s foremost playwrights, Joanna Murray-Smith, breathes new life into Chekhov’s classic tale of unrequited love, Uncle Vanya (21 July – 22 August). All the hallmarks of the original – its humour, frustration and examination of the human condition – remain but are cleverly refocused to bring modern

Losing Face

audiences closer to 19th-century Russia. This adaptation stars Daniel Henshall in the title role and Catherine Văn-Davies as his subject of adoration, Yelena, the beautiful and much younger wife of an esteemed professor visiting his estate.

A TALE OF SURVIVAL

the Sea (from 14 August), following a family’s epic journey to retain their dignity and safety during Sri Lanka’s civil war. This play, which features live Carnatic music and a Bharatanatyam dancer in the cast, won the prize for drama at the 2024 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award. + mtc.com.au

In a follow-up to their muchlauded Counting and Cracking, S Shakthidharan and Eamon Flack have written and directed The Jungle and 65

Photographed by Simon Shiff

ALWAYS REMEMBER STEP INSIDE THE MELBOURNE HOLOCAUST MUSEUM, AN INSTITUTION BUILT BY SURVIVORS TO PRESERVE THEIR STORIES AND LEGACIES.

Photographed by Simon Shiff

Everybody Had A Name

Marking Memory

MESSAGE OF HOPE

MARKING MEMORY

Founded by a group of survivors in 1984, the Melbourne Holocaust Museum is the largest Australian institution of its kind, honouring victims and supporting survivors and their families. Since it opened, the museum has collected more than 14,000 survivor testimonies and 12,000 historical artefacts. Now, thousands of people visit every year to learn from the past. Through education, the Melbourne Holocaust Museum aims to combat darkness and prejudice, celebrate human resilience, and build a better future.

Kathy Temin is one of Australia’s most respected contemporary artists. She is also the daughter of a Holocaust survivor. For the past 20 years, Kathy has been creating a body of Remembrance works that will be displayed in an exhibition entitled Marking Memory (until 12 July). It shows her monumental sculptural pieces made of faux fur, teamed with sound and shared testimonies, that explore memory, loss and intergenerational dialogues.

EVERYBODY HAD A NAME The museum’s major exhibition is Everybody Had a Name, which traces life before the Holocaust, the rise of Nazism, the outbreak of World War II and its aftermath. Visitors can choose to follow the path of a Holocaust survivor through a multimedia experience that allows them to hear the story of someone who lived through the war and migrated to Melbourne. + mhm.org.au

Eugene Hyland

ARTS & CULTURE

FOCUSED COLLECTIONS World of the Book

OTHER TIMES Now in its 21st year, World of the Book showcases a selection of the incredibly rare and historically significant pieces in the State Library Victoria’s extensive collection. ♦ There are more than 300 objects on display at the Victoria Police Museum,

including Australia’s largest collection of Kelly Gang armour, as well as details and information about some of Melbourne’s most notorious crimes. + slv.vic.gov.au + policemuseum.vic.gov.au ▼

THESE SPECIALIST MUSEUMS INVITE VISITORS OF ALL AGES TO EXPLORE MORE DEEPLY, COVERING A MIX OF CULTURE, HISTORY AND INTERACTIVE DISCOVERY.

FOCUSED COLLECTIONS Continued

Hellenic Museum

DISTANT PLACES They were among the first immigrants to arrive in number on Australian shores, and the Chinese Museum tells their stories from the gold rush to present day. See the world’s largest ceremonial dragon and find out about the 200-year-old Chinese Australian story. ♦ Experience 8,000 years of history at the Hellenic Museum, where the exhibitions include Ten Thousand Sorrows, an interactive display about the legend of Pandora. + chinesemuseum.com.au + hellenic.org.au

Chinese Museum

FOR SMALLER EXPLORERS

CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

Step aboard Polly Woodside at South Wharf, a restored nineteenth-century cargo ship where children can explore decks, cabins and rigging while gaining a hands-on sense of maritime life and early engineering. Then hop on a tram to Southern Cross Station where a short train trip will get you to Scienceworks, perfect for families and children with curious minds. The exhibition on now is Colour. Explore 21 hands-on exhibits and experiment with light, illusions and perception. + nationaltrust.org.au/polly-woodside + museumsvictoria.com.au/ scienceworks

Koorie Heritage Trust acts as a meeting place for everyone who wants to celebrate the cultural heritage, history and knowledge systems of the First Peoples of south-eastern Australia. While you’re there, check out the exhibitions or join a walking tour. ♦ Find out more about how different nationalities of people came to arrive here among the many exhibitions at the Immigration Museum, all displayed in Old Customs House. + kht.org.au + museumsvictoria.com.au/ immigrationmuseum

Jo Duck

A CHEKHOV CLASSIC THE LEADS IN UNCLE VANYA SPEAK ABOUT THE LATEST ADAPTATION COMING TO MELBOURNE.

ARTS & CULTURE

Daniel Henshall and Catherine Văn-Davies, Uncle Vanya, Melbourne Theatre Company

VANYA REDEFINED

LIFE, OH LIFE

Anton Chekhov wrote Uncle Vanya in 1896 Russia. The new Melbourne Theatre Company production (21 July – 22 August), however, has been adapted by local playwright Joanna Murray-Smith, and stars Daniel Henshall in the title role and Catherine Văn-Davies as his infatuation, Yelena. “She arrives and completely destabilises the household,” says Văn-Davies of her character. “The men project everything on to her, the women resent her and she spends a lot of the time complaining about how bored she is.”

Uncle Vanya is an examination of the human condition, filled with humour, frustration and hope for change, all themes that resonate with modern audiences. “The play speaks to a natural world in demise, and questions how we coexist and care for it,” says Henshall. “Like today, there’s the cost of living, the sacrifices, the choices made, the lasting impact years later, and the feelings suppressed, perhaps to manage the daily grind, and how they manifest under pressure, especially when family is around.”

OFFSTAGE IN MELBOURNE Both actors are based interstate but are eager to be on stage in front of Melbourne audiences. “I wouldn’t be the artist I am today had I not really invested the first decade to making theatre in Melbourne,” says VănDavies. Between performances, she’s looking forward to exploring the city: “I’m always wandering Chinatown for tasty treats, Footscray for Vietnamese food, and Gertrude Street in Fitzroy for independent designers.” + mtc.com.au

Shop

SHOP Samee Lapham

The Finders Keepers Market

GET SET FOR RETAIL RECREATION. MELBOURNE HAS EVERYTHING YOU COULD DESIRE, FROM DESIGNER LABELS TO FASHIONABLE FUN.

SHOPPING SPACES

Behind the original windows and beneath the vaulted glass ceilings of The Block Arcade is an array of retail options, from the designer wares of Georg Jensen Living to the sweet treats of Haigh’s Chocolates. ♦ At the Royal Arcade, check out Gog and Magog watching over Gaunt’s Clock then peruse stores like Curiosity Merchants for artisanal and sensory goods, and fragrances from Florence at Santa Maria Novella. ♦ Contemporary Collins Arcade is the place for Birkenstock, MJ Bale, Mimco, Swatch and more. + theblock.com.au + royalarcade.com.au + collinsarcade.com.au

Shop your way through the city’s covered retail hubs, where design, fashion and specialty stores sit under one roof. At Emporium Melbourne, Incu brings a tightly curated mix of international and Australian labels, while Aesop’s signature store offers considered skincare. ♦ In Melbourne Central, Milligram focuses on designforward stationery, objects and travel accessories. ♦ Over at QV Melbourne, Monsterthreads leans into art-led retail, collaborating with Australian illustrators on clothing, prints and design-focused gifts. + emporiummelbourne.com.au + melbournecentral.com.au + qv.com.au

MARKET DAYS The Finders Keepers Market (10–12 July) takes over the Royal Exhibition Building, bringing together a huge range of Australia’s best makers and designers, as well as tasty food and fun music. ♦ There’s more amazing local work, from cool fashion to independent artworks, on offer from the variety of stalls every weekend at The Rose St Artists’ Market. ♦ On Saturday and Sunday at Queen Vic Market, check out thousands of tomes, as well as records, CDs and DVDs, at The Melbourne Book Market. + thefinderskeepers.com + rosestmarket.com.au + themelbournebookmarket.au

Emporium Melbourne

SHOP

ARCADE ACTION

Jesse Hisco

OBJECTS OF DESIRE YOU’VE SEEN THE CARTIER EXHIBITION, NOW VISIT THE FINEST STORES TO BROWSE THE RACKS, DISCOVER NEW LABELS OR START YOUR OWN COLLECTION.

Cartier

Josie Withers

Marais Women QV

LUSTRE AND LIGHT

LUXE LABELS

ARCHIVAL EDIT

Of course, your first stop should be Cartier on Collins Street to see its latest range of jewellery, timepieces and accessories. Almost next door is Jan Logan, an Australian designer of high jewellery set with South Sea pearls from the Kimberley coastline and diamonds and gemstones that have been sustainably sourced. If you’re looking for something wearable and practical, head to Monards, run by watch expert Bernard Fung. As well as many of the big brands, including Hublot and Piaget, it sells timepieces by a selection of independent watchmakers, too. It also has jewellery from the likes of Qeelin and Hearts on Fire. + cartier.com + janlogan.com + monards.com.au

From its signature travel trunk to the latest garments by the maison’s creative directors Pharrell Williams and Nicholas Ghesquière, you’ll find the full Louis Vuitton range at the label’s Collins Street store. See the ready-to-wear range from new creative director Jonathan Anderson, as well as handbags, shoes and accessories, at the Dior store. If you want to browse a range of the world’s most coveted luxury designer labels – Balmain, Celine, Helmut Lang, Kenzo and many more – head to one of the city’s Marais stores. As well as clothing, it stocks shoes, bags and accessories, and smart streetwear. + au.louisvuitton.com + dior.com.au + marais.com.au

Great fashion is timeless. For fans of archival pieces from the avant-garde designers of Japan and Belgium, find a slice of heaven in Curtin House. Dot COMME, on level four, sells pieces from designers like Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto and Walter Van Beirendonck. Go down one floor to find Reina Melbourne, which focuses on Japanese and European designers from the early 1990s to the mid-2000s. Shop preowned luxury handbags, wallets and accessories at The Purse Affair. If you’ve ever wanted to own a Balenciaga City or Gucci Jackie Hobo bag, this is where resale and vintage pieces bring them within reach. + dotcomme.net + reinamelbourne.com + thepurseaffair.com 73

SHOP

Louis Vuitton

VINYL VIBES Stephen Boxshall

VINYL IS HAVING A MOMENT. IF YOU LOVE SPINNING THE DECKS, YOU’RE IN JUST THE RIGHT PLACE TO TOP UP YOUR COLLECTION.

SHOP

IN THE CITY Melbourne has one of the highest numbers of record stores per capita worldwide. Here’s where to find a handful of some of the best, in the city and just beyond. Wax Museum Records on Flinders Lane is known for its strong hip hop selection. Find foundational releases and newer local and international pressings. Across the city and up the stairs on Lonsdale Street, Rocksteady Records offers a broader mix, spanning reggae, soul, jazz and more. + waxmuseumrecords.com + rocksteadyrecords.com.au

AROUND THE CORNER Tram routes 12 or 109 will get you to Gertrude Street and surrounds for a strong cluster of stores within easy walking distance. Northside Records is a long-running staple for soul, funk and global sounds, with a tightly curated range for browsing or collecting. Nearby,

Heartland Records

Searchers Records leans into secondhand and underground releases, while Licorice Pie Records is perfect for crate-digging the dense collection of second-hand stock. Head up Nicholson Street for more at Goldmine Records. The shelves span decades and genres, making it a reliable stop if you want range in one visit. + northsiderecords.com.au + thesearchers.com.au + licoricepie.com + goldminerecords.com.au

ONE MORE SPIN Take the train from the city to Greville Records in Prahran, just off Chapel Street. This cult favourite has been named one of the world’s best vinyl stores. Head there for a reliable and well-organised range. Not done yet? Heartland Records in North Melbourne offers a balanced mix of new and used vinyl, making it a worthwhile final stop on the loop. + grevillerecords.com.au + heartlandrecords.com.au 75

COLLINS234 Just a few steps from the corner of Collins and Swanston streets, we’re small enough to make short visits easy, and large enough to have that special item you’ve been searching for. From the collectable to the everyday, it’s perfectly central, perfectly you. With books, craft, fashion and wellbeing retailers all under one roof, Collins234 is your perfect destination for lunchtime admin, to find that special gift, or to escape the city bustle. Make it yours at Collins234. 234 Collins Street, Melbourne Train: Flinders Street or Town Hall Station Tram: Route 1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, 72 to stop 11 or route 11, 12, 48 or 109 to stop 6 Open: Daily, refer to website for hours w: collins234.com.au Find us on:

ST KILDA ESPLANADE MARKET With its idyllic beachside location, the St Kilda Esplanade Market is a favourite stop in St Kilda. A world-renowned art-and-craft makers’ haven, the market has been the destination of choice for those seeking high-quality and authentic Australian products since 1970. This familyfriendly market features original artworks and handmade crafts, exquisite jewellery and delicious food. Meet the makers and designers every Sunday. If you’re after handmade, unique, local, that’s your Esplanade Market. Upper Esplanade, St Kilda Tram: Route 16 or 96 to stop 138 Open: Sunday, 10am to 4pm t: 03 9209 6777 w: stkildaesplanademarket.com.au Find us on:

Family Fun

FAMILY FUN

Bluey’s Big Play: The Stage Show

WHETHER YOU WANT TO BE INDOORS OR OUT, FIND FUN AND FESTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE IN YOUR GROUP, RIGHT ACROSS THE CITY.

CULTURE TOP-UP

ENERGY BURNERS

IT’S SHOWTIME

They can get dressed up, learn to play Magic: The Gathering and meet stars of TV and film at Oz Comic Con (6–7 June), on at Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. ♦ Wondering what to do with teens who love fantasy? Monsteen, part of RISING (until 8 June), is a participatory theatre piece where they create characters to face off with friends and enemies at a supernatural high school. ♦ Get involved in workshops, expert panels, children’s activities and much more during celebrations for National Science Week (15–23 August) at Melbourne Museum. + ozcomiccon.com + 2026.rising.melbourne + museumsvictoria.com.au

Strap on some skates and hit the rink at O’Brien Icehouse. There’s public skating every day and, if you’re a beginner, there are skate aids and plastic seals for the blades. ♦ At District Docklands, Dreamskape/ Dreamrace are multimedia sensory experiences in a futuristic digital theme park. ♦ Babies to five-year-olds can dig for fossils, play in the discovery garden and go to the camouflage disco at Melbourne Museum’s Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery. + obrienicehouse.com.au + dreamskape.com.au + museumsvictoria.com.au

See everyone’s favourite dog family come to life at Bluey’s Big Play: The Stage Show (1–12 July) at the Comedy Theatre. ♦ They’re celebrating 35 years with their biggest tour ever, so don’t miss The Wiggles Live in Concert (25–27 June) at Festival Hall. ♦ It’s the biggest event of its kind in the southern hemisphere, and Melbourne Magic Festival (29 June – 11 July) will see magicians arrive from around the world, with many shows at a variety of locations suitable for the whole family. + marrinergroup.com.au + thewiggles.com + melbournemagicfestival.com

FAMILY FUN

The Wiggles Live in Concert

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED

FAMILY FUN

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

WILDLIFE MISSIONS Head to Melbourne Zoo, where your mission is to a take a photo of a baby animal. Hint: there are snow leopard cubs and a little giraffe called Zambezi. Little ones might also like to see what’s happening in the Nature Play Garden. Head to SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium and discover what goes on beneath the waves. Get a selfie with one of the residents of Penguin Playground or take a pic with a sea star at the rockpools. At

Collingwood Children’s Farm, take part in the daily activities and pat the farm animals. Before you leave, find a feather to take home. + zoo.org.au + visitsealife.com + farm.org.au

TASKS AND CHECKPOINTS Make a visit to Queen Vic Market extra fun when you pick up one of the Kids Passports from the information

▼

MAKE YOUR DAYS IN MELBOURNE A FAMILY CONTEST, WITH A FUN ITINERARY YOU CAN DOCUMENT ALONG THE WAY.

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED Continued

Kids Passport at Queen Vic Market

Jesse Hisco

Zambezi at Melbourne Zoo

hub on Queen Street. As you shop, the kids can get stamps from the different traders. Before a visit to NGV International, find printable activities on the website (or just get inspired and use your own pen and paper). Here’s a good one: sit opposite the Waterwall at the entrance to the gallery, and draw a mural you’d place across it, taking cues from artists NGV has exhibited (like the bold line work of Keith Haring or Eko Nugroho). + qvm.com.au + ngv.melbourne 82

ON THE MOVE Play I Spy onboard the free City Circle tram and tick off some of the landmarks along the way. Marvel Stadium, Federation Square, the Forum Theatre and Old Melbourne Gaol are just a few. Go to Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre to collect its outdoor adventure challenge to answer 12 questions on the map. Wander along the river towards Southbank to the Polly Woodside. It’s a sailing cargo vessel built in 1885 and now open to

NGV International

visitors on the first and third Sundays of the month. Its first voyage was from Belfast to Chile. Pretend you were on it and write a postcard to a friend. + transport.vic.gov.au + whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au + nationaltrust.org.au

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LEGOLAND® DISCOVERY CENTRE MELBOURNE LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre is the ultimate indoor LEGO® playground! Located in Chadstone, this unique family attraction features multiple build and play zones, a LEGO replica of Melbourne, two rides, a 4D cinema and LEGO retail store. Featuring more than two million LEGO bricks, the centre gives children a bricktastic hands-on experience, building everything their imagination desires. Designed for families with children aged three to 12. Adults must be accompanied by a child (except when visiting the store or attending Adult Night). Level 2, Chadstone 1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone Open: Mon–Fri, 10am to 5pm (last entry 3.30pm), Sat–Sun, 9am to 6pm (last entry 4.30pm). See website for latest holiday hours. w: legolanddiscoverycentre.com/melbourne Find us on:

WERRIBEE OPEN RANGE ZOO Hop on the safari bus and adventure across the savannah to see giraffes, zebras, rhinos and more. Roam the Elephant Trail and spot the herd exploring their 21-hectare habitat. Say hello to our lion pride on the African River Trail and visit the playful kangaroos on the Australian Trail. Don’t miss the 10 daily animal talks led by our zookeepers, all included with your ticket. For a truly unforgettable adventure, check out the premium animal experiences. Kids visit free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays. K Road, Werribee Train and Bus: Werribee Line to Werribee Station then bus route 439 to Werribee South Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm t: 1300 966 784 w: zoo.org.au/werribee Find us on:

MAKE IT AND TAKE IT CREATIVE KIDS AND TEENS WILL LOVE THESE HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES, WITH OPTIONS TO JOIN ON THE DAY OR BOOK AHEAD. CHECK THEM OUT AND GET STUCK IN. FAMILY FUN

Museum of Play and Art

STREET ART STYLE

CRAFT AND POSE

LEARN AND CREATE

If they’ve expressed an interest in street art, book them in for a twohour freehand workshop at Blender Studios with Melbourne Street Art Tours. They’ll sketch a design, learn can techniques and, at the end of the session, will have their own spraypainted piece of art to take home. During school holidays (27 June – 12 July), there are extra classes, including one for creating and painting custom skateboard decks. + melbournestreettours.com

Little kids love the Pauline Gandel Children’s Quarter of State Library Victoria, where there are places to craft, read and play. On weekends at 3pm, there are also guided craft activities based on a book. ♦ The District Docklands has many immersive fun options for kids. At Artvo, more than 80 hand-painted scenes turn walls and floors into interactive sets. Take turns stepping into each illusion while budding photographers capture it all on camera. + slv.vic.gov.au + artvo.com.au

From Flinders Street Station, take a train to Sandringham and head to the Museum of Play and Art for hands-on winter sessions. Children can make and take home their own clay monster (14 July – 15 August) and explore the rest of the museum, known for its immersive, play-based exhibits. ♦ Take the shuttle from Fed Square straight to Chadstone for a day of shopping. At Build A Bear you can create a personalised stuffed animal, with matching outfits and accessories, to take home. + museumofplayandart.com.au + buildabear.com.au

Beyond Melbourne

BEYOND MELBOURNE David Green

Huzzah

Timur Sonmez

JUMP ON A TRAIN OR TRAM AND GO BEYOND THE CITY LIMITS. MELBOURNE’S NEIGHBOURHOODS OFFER A WORLD OF EXPERIENCES.

HEAD NORTH

BEYOND MELBOURNE

Inject yourself into the heart of Melbourne’s Italian community in Carlton. For pies with charry crusts and innovative toppings, try Garfield Pizzeria. ♦ Comedy trio Sooshi Mango has opened Sangaweech, serving up fully stuffed paninis. ♦ On a visit further north to Pentridge Prison – the tours are excellent – stop for a meal at Koi Toy, a diner where the shareable plates are a twist on Japanese classics. + instagram.com/garfield_pizzeria + instagram.com/sangaweech + instagram.com/koitoy.pentridge

Koi Toy

SOUTH OF THE CITY

IN THE EAST

GO WEST

If you love excellent upmarket shopping, dining and galleries, explore High Street Armadale. For elevated evening wear, head to the flagship store of Effie Kats, where all the designs are made in Australia. ♦ Find a vintage poster for your wall at Letitia Morris Gallery. ♦ Ready to refuel? Head to Amaru, a modern Australian restaurant, where the chefs create dishes like mud crab with white asparagus and caviar. + effiekats.com + letitiamorris.com + amarumelbourne.com.au

At Chadstone experience the debut Light to Night festival (11 June – 12 July). Street artist and muralist Rone will transform a space within the centre into a large-scale interpretation of suburbia and decay, set across a footprint the size of a suburban house block, including a backyard and driveway. Evening events include dinners, art, music, workshops and family-friendly activities. ♦ In Glen Iris, stop at Huzzah, a massive open-air beer garden – it’s family- and dog-friendly – with Romanstyle pizza and 15 taps. + chadstone.com.au + wearehuzzah.com

Seddon is a cute neighbourhood with a village feel. Along Victoria Street, you’ll discover independent retailers – boutiques, gift shops, bookstores – and a true cafe culture. New to the street is Ilza, where you can sup on Japanese sandos, udon and black sesame lattes. ♦ In a new development in Kensington, head to Younghusband Market, where makers and craftspeople set up their stalls once a month. + ilza.com.au + instagram.com/ younghusbandmelbourne

Neighbourhood Map

Sunbury Sunbury Line Line

For more information within Victoria, visit the local Visitor Information Centres. + visitvictoria.com/vic

Craigieburn U Craigieburn Line Line Li TULLAMARINE TULLAMARINE

Melbourne Melbourne FWY FWY Airport Airport

Calder Park Calder Park

CALDER CALDER FWY FWY Sydenham Sydenham Hill Taylors Taylors Hill

SkyBus SkyBus route route Keilor Keilor

Keilor Downs Keilor Downs

WESTERN WESTERN CarolineCaroline SpringsSprings FWY FWY

Tullamarine Tullamarine Oak Park Oak Park

Keilor Park Keilor Park

St Albans St Albans

Essendon EssendonPascoe PV Fields Fields

Maribyrnong Maribyrnong Essendon Essendon River River

MooneeMoonee Ponds Po Maribyrnong Maribyrnong

Deer Park Deer Park

Ascot Vale Ascot Vale

Par Flemington Flemington

Sunshine Sunshine

Footscray Footscray Derrimut Derrimut

SeddonSeddon West Melbourne West Melbo

20km 20km

10km10km

Yarraville Yarraville

5km 5km

Spotswood Spotswood Port Melbourne Port Melbou So Altona North Altona North

WEST WEST GATE GATE FWY FWY Alb

Hobsons Bay

Laverton Laverton

Altona Altona

Werribee Werribee Line Line PRINCES PRINCES Altona Meadows Altona Meadows FWY FWY

Williamstown Williamstown

Williamstown Williams Line Line

Werribee Werribee Werribee

Geelong Geelong Avalon Avalon Airport Airport

Port Phillip Port Phillip Bay Bay

N N

Upfield Line

Mernda Line

BEYOND MELBOURNE Hurstbridge Line

Greensborough

Bundoora

COBURG 1

Fawkner

There are two ways to get to Pentridge Eltham Prison: catch a Route 19 tram to the door or take an Upfield Line train to Coburg Station for a short walk. Take a tour of the old jail, enjoy lunch at The Boot Factory and catch a movie at Pentridge Cinemas. Warrandyte Templestowe

Reservoir Yallambie

Pascoe Vale

Viewbank

Preston

Coburg

Heidelberg Ivanhoe Fairfield Northcote

onds Brunswick

Yarra River

Clifton Hill

Carlton 2 Fitzroy Collingwood

Kew

Balwyn

Melbourne

Richmond

Lilydale Lines

Canterbury

Hawthorn

urne South Melbourne South Yarra

stown

Box Hill

Burwood

St Kilda

Prahran Malvern Armadale

Elwood

Alamein Line

Caulfield Elsternwick

Chadstone

Carnegie

Clayton

Hampton

Sandringham Line

Heatherton Cheltenham

Black Rock Beaumaris

MONASH FWY Plan your journey at + transport.vic.gov.au Springvale

Moorabbin

Sandringham

Scoresby

Notting Hill

Oakleigh

Brighton

ARMADALE 3 Catch a Route 6 tram or a Frankston Vermont Line train to Armadale Station. Head down High Street, one of the premier shopping and dining streets in Melbourne’s neighbourhoods. After you’veWaverley checked out stores like Camilla, Glen Şener Besim and Bassike, treat Line Glen yourself Waverleyto dinner at fine Vietnamese diner Le Tonkin.

Camberwell

Toorak

Albert Park

Smith Street is a hotbed of cool. From the city, catch a Route 86 tram, which travels its length. Look for books, Doncaster albums and gifts at Happy Valley, check out the vintage furniture at EASTERN FWY Smith Street Bazaar and have lunch in an old train carriage on a rooftop Belgrave and at Easey’s.

Bulleen

Noble Park Frankston

Frankston Line

Cranbourne and Pakenham Lines

Dandenong

BEYOND MELBOURNE

Parkville

ourne

COLLINGWOOD 2

Thornbury

THE FASHION CAPITAL

PLAY SHOP

DINE

STAY

WELCOME TO CHADSTONE AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST SHOPPING DESTINATION Unmatched in scale in the Southern Hemisphere, Chadstone is a destination unlike any other, where luxury fashion, Australian designer boutiques, bustling restaurants, vibrant bars and five-star accommodation meet to shape unforgettable experiences. Here you’re invited to wander - and to wonder. Because each visit carries the promise of something new, waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re here to shop, to savour or to stay - surprise is guaranteed.

Chadstone isn’t just a destination. It’s an icon. Arriving in style is part of the experience. Hop on our free Tourist Shuttle from Fed Square – it runs every hour and delivers you straight to Chadstone.

SCAN TO BOOK FREE SHUTTLE OR VISIT CHADSTONE.COM.AU

Grand Old Cinemas

Jim Lee

GRAND OLD CINEMAS BEYOND MELBOURNE

ACROSS MELBOURNE, A WAVE OF HERITAGE AND INDEPENDENT THEATRES BRINGS GLAMOUR TO THE BIGSCREEN EXPERIENCE.

St Kilda Film Festival, Palais Theatre

Filmmaking duo Lou and Gus Berger took a 1920s petrol station and turned it into the 57-seat, single-screen Thornbury Picture House, where you can see new-release films, encore presentations and cult classics. The drinks and snacks all come from local suppliers, too. ♦ Just five minutes from St Kilda is Elsternwick’s Classic Cinemas, where films have been shown for more than a century. As well as the latest releases, it hosts retrospectives and filmmaker Q&As. ♦ It has a sister complex in Belgrave, called Cameo Cinemas. It first opened

in 1935 and is now a community hub for the Dandenong Ranges. + thornburypicturehouse.com.au + classiccinemas.com.au + cameocinemas.com.au

GOLDEN OLDIES The Jazz Moderne Revival-style single-screen Astor Theatre on the border of Windsor and St Kilda is probably one of Melbourne’s best-known venues. It keeps film lovers satisfied with eclectic programming that includes Sunday double features, concert films and anniversary screenings. ♦ In its 1940s

heyday, Yarraville’s Sun Theatre was loved as much as it is today. Now the Art Deco building has eight screens that show new and arthouse releases and director retrospectives, like the ‘Temple of Quentin’, now on. ♦ The 1912 building that houses Hawthorn’s Lido Cinemas has had top-notch technology added to ensure visitors get the best possible experience. After a movie on Friday or Saturday night, head to the Lido Jazz Room for live music. + astortheatre.net.au + suntheatre.com.au + lidocinemas.com.au

▼

LOCAL FAVOURITES

GRAND OLD CINEMAS Continued Zan Wimberley

Melbourne International Film Festival, Capitol Theatre

The Melbourne International Film Festival (6–23 August) spreads right across the city, with venues including Hawthorn’s Lido Cinemas, Pentridge Cinemas, Sun Theatre in Yarraville and many more turning over their screens to its program. ♦ It’s one of the country’s biggest short film festivals, and a qualifier for the Academy Awards, so book your tickets for St Kilda Film Festival (4–14 June), with screenings at St Kilda Town Hall, the Astor Theatre and Palais Theatre. ♦ Carlton’s

Cinema Nova is one of the hosts for another important annual event: the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival (15–31 July), which celebrates true stories from around the world. + miff.com.au + stkildafilmfestival.com.au + mdff.org.au

Ain Raadik

FESTIVAL FUN

Sun Theatre

A Grand Day Out Return Ferry, Lunch and Drink Package

Begin your adventure with a scenic cruise across Port Phillip Bay aboard a fast ferry to the historic Portarlington Grand Hotel, where heritage meets modern luxury. Available every day except Tuesdays, the Grand Day Out Package includes a return ferry journey, a delicious lunch, and your choice of drink. After lunch, explore Portarlington’s charming boutiques or enjoy a scenic stroll along the pristine Bellarine coastline.

Docklands

Ferry Time

70 min

Portarlington Bellarine Peninsula

Portarlington Grand Hotel

Port Phillip Bay

BLISS BEYOND THE BEACH WAYS TO WARM UP MELBOURNE’S SOUTHSIDE MIGHT BE KNOWN FOR ITS STRETCHES OF SAND, BUT THERE’S PLENTY MORE TO ENJOY IN WINTER. Red Stitch Theatre

Raye Reyes

MEET THE MAKERS Tucked into the back streets of Port Melbourne and South Melbourne are local brewers and distillers pouring well-crafted beers and spirits. Choose from 16 brews on tap at Brewmanity, try the Fillet‑O‑Shrimp with a pint at CBCo Brewing, or head to Starward Distillery where you can join a whisky masterclass. Other top spots include Pirate Life, Patient Wolf Gin and Westside Ale Works.

IT’S SHOWTIME

George Lane

St Kilda is home to great live music and theatre experiences. Head to Red Stitch Theatre for the Australian premiere of Funeral Flowers (25 July – 23 August), an unflinching play about social inequality and selfdiscovery. Catch a live gig at George Lane, a bigger one at the Prince Bandroom, or experience the St Kilda Film Festival (4–14 June) at the Palais Theatre. + whatsonstkilda.com 97

BEYOND MELBOURNE

Whether you’re starting in Port Melbourne or St Kilda, Melbourne’s Southside hits its stride in winter – bright, buzzing and built for long, lively nights. In South Melbourne, head to Hector’s Deli for a delicious tuna melt or to Juniper for its standout roast chicken roll. Nearby Albert Park is the place to find a wine bar where you can sample a glass of red. Try Wally’s, the Village Wine Bar or The Vincent Bistro & Wine Bar.

ESCAPE TO HUME CITY THIS WINTER HUME IS THE IDEAL GETAWAY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY. SURF WORLD-CLASS WAVES, COSY UP AT A LOCAL WINERY AND ENJOY GLOBAL FLAVOURS JUST 25 KILOMETRES FROM THE CITY CENTRE AND AT MELBOURNE AIRPORT’S DOORSTEP.

Woodlands Homestead Cafe

VINES WITH VIEWS

FUN FOR FAMILIES Step into AFL Max in Tullamarine and discover more than just football, with trampolines, bouldering, skills zones and inflatables. Head to URBNSURF Tullamarine for a surf experience like no other. There are different waves

to suit all abilities, and lessons for beginners. After your surf, cosy up to the fireplace and enjoy a meal at Three Blue Ducks. Feel the adrenaline at Campbellfield’s PowerPlay, the ultimate electric go-karting experience, with a multi-level indoor track designed for epic drifting, close racing and unforgettable fun. Experience authentic farm life at Animal Land Children’s Farm in Diggers Rest. Meet and feed the animals and ride the ponies.

HISTORY AND NATURE At Greenvale’s Living Legends meet retired champion racehorses including Twilight Payment (Twiggy), who won the 2020 Melbourne Cup. Enjoy guided tours and horse encounters and indulge in a Devonshire tea by the fire at the historical Woodlands Homestead Cafe. In Sunbury, discover the natural beauty of Emu Bottom Wetlands. Enjoy a serene escape rich in wildlife, walking trails and history. Nearby,

AFL Max

explore Artrise, a beautifully restored heritage building with a rich history dating back to the early 1900s, now a vibrant creative hub with breathtaking views, an art gallery and more.

STAY A WHILE Settle into one of the cosy, architecturally designed cabins at Marnong Estate and marvel at the view of the Macedon Ranges. Alternatively, experience the contemporary accommodation at Melbourne Airport’s Novotel & ibis Styles, including three eateries, a health club, indoor pool and spa facilities. For a truly unique stay, watch planes take off from your room window at PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport or holiday with your fur baby at the petfriendly Quest Melbourne Airport. For more inspiration on things to do, places to see and foods to eat, follow + instagram.com/discoverhume

Arundel Farm Estate

BEYOND MELBOURNE

Hume City is home to the closest wineries to Melbourne’s city centre, so why not add a vineyard visit to your weekend getaway? Explore Marnong Estate in Mickleham for estate-grown wine and dining with breathtaking views. Enjoy tastings at the cellar door and Italian flavours at La Vètta, Cucina 3064 and Caffé Vista. In East Keilor, Arundel Farm Estate is a boutique winery surrounded by century-old trees, vineyards and farm animals. Taste a variety of wines at the cellar door, then enjoy your favourites at the Italian-inspired restaurant. In Sunbury, heritage vineyard Goona Warra Estate offers bluestone elegance, fine dining and a welcoming cafe.

A DAY IN WILLIAMSTOWN John Palermo

A QUICK TRIP FROM CENTRAL MELBOURNE WILL SEE YOU IN ONE OF THE CITY’S OLDEST AND MOST INTERESTING NEIGHBOURHOODS.

Hobsons Bay Hotel

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John Palermo

A MELBOURNE ORIGINAL You may not know this, but what was once King William’s Town – now known as Williamstown – is the original capital of Victoria. First established in 1835 on the traditional lands of the Yalukit-Willam clan of the Kulin Nation, this bayside area became a key hub for building ships and housing criminals. Today, many of its historical landmarks, including Gem Pier (built in 1838) and the Time Ball Tower (1852), can still be seen around the suburb.

exploring World War II relic, the HMAS Castlemaine. To learn more about the history, pick up brochures for a selfguided heritage walk from the Visitor Information Centre in Commonwealth Reserve. You might also want to head to Seaworks, the local maritime museum and events space. See an exhibition called Piratefest (until 21 June), join the fun of the Swiss Festival 2026 (8 August) or tempt your tastebuds at the Melbourne Cheese, Wine & Spirits Festival (22 August).

HMAS Castlemaine

sublime pastries and sandwiches. For a glass of vino, small plates and antipasto platters, try Lower Westside Wine Bar. An option for a hearty meal is the Hobsons Bay Hotel. Start by heading up to the rooftop in the late afternoon, where you can see the city beginning to light up. In the dining room, order seafood dishes, pub classics or a great steak. Afterwards, find a spot by the fireplace and have a nightcap to toast your excellent day out in Williamstown. + experiencehobsonsbay.com.au

BEST OF THE ’BURB MARITIME HISTORY There is plenty from days long gone to be discovered throughout Williamstown, including remnants of the first settlement, sailing on a replica of the tall ship Enterprize and

There are plenty of landmarks to explore along Nelson Place or you can browse the boutiques of Ferguson Street. When hunger strikes, head to one of the local cafes, like Sourdough Kitchen, for top-notch coffee and 101

BEYOND MELBOURNE

Hobsons Bay

Victoria’s Regions

VICTORIA’S REGIONS Lauren Anderson

East Gippsland Winter Festival

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HEADING TO VIC’S REGIONS FOR THE WEEKEND? THERE ARE FESTIVALS AND EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE STATE. CHECK THESE OUT TO ADD TO YOUR ITINERARY.

MATTER OF TASTE

There’s an entire month of celebrations – incredible feasts, inspiring art, fun street parties and so much more – on offer at East Gippsland Winter Festival (19 June – 19 July). ♦ Get out and about when Ballarat Winter Festival (27 June – 19 July) takes over the city and surrounds with its dazzling light displays, entertainment, food and fun. ♦ On the longest night of the year, head to the family-friendly Mansfield Lantern Festival (20 June) for a parade, live performances, open fires and market stalls. + egwinterfest.com.au + ballaratwinterfestival.com.au + mansfieldlanternfestival.com.au

Discover the secrets of the vines when Rutherglen’s vignerons open their cellars for Dark Side of Wine (7–16 August). There’ll be stories and celebrations of wine and its history. ♦ Celebrate shiraz during Heathcote on Show (6–8 June), when various venues and wineries open their doors for exclusive tastings, gourmet food and live music. ♦ The world’s favourite fungi will be the focus at Noojee Truffle Festival (10 July – 2 August), with chef-led feasts, farm gate tours, truffle hunts with dogs, cooking demonstrations and market stalls. + explorerutherglen.com.au + heathcoteonshow.com + noojeetrufflefestival.com.au

ARTS APLENTY In one of its biggest exhibitions, Geelong Gallery welcomes Discovering the Impressionists: Paul Durand-Ruel (from 20 June). It features more than 70 artworks by Monet, Renoir, Pissarro and more, and traces the history of the movement. ♦ Big bands and small will grace the venues at Inverloch Jazz Festival (31 July – 2 August). ♦ Get your fix of live blues and roots music at Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival (23–26 July). More than 60 artists will play across 20 venues and every show is free. + geelonggallery.org.au + inverlochjazzfestival.com + winterblues.com.au

Heathcote on Show

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VICTORIA’S REGIONS

CELEBRATE COOL

Regional Map Mildura

Murray Sunset National Park

Hattah-Kulkyne National Park Ouyen

Swan Hill

SUNRAYSIA HWY

Wyperfeld National Park

Kerang

Yarrawonga

Rutherglen

Echuca Warracknabeal

Wangaratta Shepparton GOULBURN VALLEY FWY

St Arnaud Horsham

Bendigo

WIMMERA HWY

NORTHERN HWY

Castlemaine

Halls Gap Grampians National Park Ararat

HUME FWY

CALDER FWY

Maryborough

Stawell

The Goldfields

Seymour

Mansfield Alexandra Alpine National Park

Daylesford

Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

WESTERN FWY

Ballarat

GLENELG HWY

Hamilton

Benalla King Valley

MELBOURNE

ower Glenelg ational Park Geelong

Camperdown Portland

Port Fairy Warrnambool Port Campbell

Colac PRINCES HWY WEST

Great Otway National Park

Lorne

Geelong and The Bellarine Torquay

Mornington Peninsula Phillip Island

Traralgon Warragul Loch Leongatha Inverloch

Apollo Bay

Great Ocean Road

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Wilsons Promontory National Park

For more information within Victoria, visit the local Visitor Information Centre. + visitvictoria.com/vic Plan ahead of travel by checking Victoria’s weather and safety warnings. + bom.gov.au + emergency.vic.gov.au Albury Albury Wodonga Wodonga Beechworth Beechworth

Alpine Alpine NationalNational Park Park Mt Beauty Mt Beauty Bright Bright Mt Buffalo Mt Buffalo NationalNational Park Park

High Country High Country Omeo Omeo

y rk

Snowy River Snowy River NationalNational Park Park

Gippsland Gippsland

Sale

Mallacoota Mallacoota

Orbost Orbost

Bairnsdale Bairnsdale

PRINCES PRINCES HWY HWY EAST EAST

KYNETON 2 Take the whole family for a fun day out, a 70-minute regional train ride from Southern Cross Station. Stretch your legs in the botanical gardens, where you’ll find a kids’ playground, then grab lunch at not-for-profit cafe Social Foundry. After, head to Piper Street, where you’ll find the Kyneton Museum, galleries and independent retailers.

Corryong Corryong

Park

Consider a weekend at this historical town, known for its gold rush heritage and grand Maryborough Station. Catch a regional train from Southern Cross Station – some services are direct, while others include a coach connection. Once you’re there, visit McLandress Square to admire the courthouse, post office and town hall, and the Central Goldfields Art Gallery. If you have a Victorian Seniors Card, it’s free to travel on Victorian public transport on weekends.

Under 18s can travel free on all Victorian public transport with a Youth myki. Get a Youth myki at staffed stations, selected retail outlets or the Transport Victoria website.

Lakes Entrance Lakes Entrance

Sale Ninety Mile Beach Ninety Mile Beach

50 25

50 75

25 0

0 25

25 50

Plan your journey at + transport.vic.gov.au

100 75 km 100 km 50 75

75 100 mi100 mi

Regional Regional rail andrail coach and coach services services

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VICTORIA’S REGIONS

VICTORIA

MARYBOROUGH 1

Arianna Leggiero

REGIONAL FLAVOURS

Barragunda Dining

EASE INTO THE SEASON, WITH A SESSION BY A PUB FIREPLACE, A VISIT TO A CELLAR DOOR, OR A MEAL AT A RESTAURANT SERVING FINE LOCAL PRODUCE.

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COUNTRY PUB COMFORT Right across Victoria, you’ll find different kinds of country pubs. On the Bellarine Peninsula, the Portarlington Grand Hotel is, as the name suggests, a large, lovely, refurbished pile. Have a glass of local pinot by the fire then order a bowl of the signature mussels. They’re grown just off the coast here. ♦ In a Murray River town of the same name, Gunbower Hotel is owned by a butcher and farmer.

Of course, the best thing to order is a home-grown steak. ♦ For almost 150 years, Bethanga Hotel has been serving great food and drinks to locals and travellers to northeastern Victoria. + portarlingtongrandhotel.com.au + gunbowerhotel.com.au + bethangahotel.com.au

FROM THE SOURCE They grow beneath the oak trees on chef Liam Downes’s property outside Ballarat, and guests to Black

Fotoarco

VICTORIA’S REGIONS

Mount Macedon Winery

Cat Truffles can go hunting for the prized fungi and enjoy an incredible six-course lunch when they book one of the winter experiences. ♦ It’s a family affair at Warragul’s Messmates Dining, where the finest produce from Gippsland, including incredible seafood, is prepared using classic European techniques. ♦ On a 400-hectare regenerative farm on the Mornington Peninsula, chef Simone Watts uses produce from the kitchen garden, augmented by ingredients from other local farmers, foragers and

Messmates Dining

winemakers, to create the set menu at intimate Barragunda Dining. + blackcattruffles.au + messmatesdining.com + barragunda.com.au

CELLAR DOOR STOPS Head to the architecturally designed wine den at Woodend’s Mount Macedon Winery to taste its offerings, or book a table at its Uumm Restaurant for woodfired pizza and seasonal share plates matched to a glass or two. ♦ In the Yarra Yalley, sip

on exceptional chardonnay and pinot noir and enjoy the picturesque view at Oakridge Wines. ♦ Visitors to the Bendigo wine region, which includes Heathcote, have the choice of more than 60 different cellar doors they can visit. Can’t make a decision? Shiraz Republic is a winery and brewery with a simple pizza menu and live music on the weekends. + mountmacedonwinery.com.au + oakridgewines.com.au + shirazrepublic.com.au

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BALLARAT IS BRILLIANTLY UNEXPECTED WHEN THE TEMPERATURE DROPS, THE CITY TURNS IT UP, WITH COMFORT FOOD, LIVE SHOWS, THEATRE AND AFTER-DARK ENERGY.

SEASONAL DELIGHTS

Hot chocolate at Near East Kitchen

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The season’s most exciting event is the Ballarat Winter Festival (27 June – 19 July), which includes Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill,

Knights of Fire at Kryal Castle and skating on the ice rink next to Ballarat Town Hall. There will also be a hot chocolate trail with 35 special drinks to sample across the city. For theatre lovers, Ray Lawler’s classic of 20th-century Australian theatre, The Doll Trilogy (18–21 June) – Kid Stakes, Other Times and Summer of the Seventeenth Doll – arrives at Her Majesty’s Theatre Ballarat. You can even experience all three plays on a single day (20 June).

Chris McConville

VICTORIA’S REGIONS

Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill

TOP TASTES Ballarat’s Best Pie is a winter crowdpleaser. Throughout August, there are 30 different pastries, both savoury and sweet, to try across the city’s cafes, restaurants, pubs and bakeries. Pick up a map at the Ballarat Visitor Centre (or online) then vote for your favourite in the People’s Choice Awards. There’s plenty more to explore in Ballarat’s food, wine and spirits scene. Head to luxe distillery Itinerant Spirits to taste a curated selection of whiskeys, either as part of a flight or in a cocktail. On

Kilderkin Distillery, Ballarat’s Best Pie

the first Sunday of the month, Craig’s Royal Hotel hosts a lavish high tea. Venture further afield to the Pyrenees Ranges to try the cool-climate shiraz at cellar doors, including Taltarni, Dalwhinnie and Sally’s Paddock.

also experiences focused on vintage fashion, local food and distilling. Once the sun goes down, join Eerie Tours for either its ghost tour of the city or the cemetery tour. + visitballarat.com.au

EXPERIENCE IT ALL The historical streets of Ballarat become even more atmospheric as the season changes. Begin exploring on your own or join a tour with Hidden Lanes. As well as its signature Ballarat City Tales guided walk, there are

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WARMTH LIVES HERE Love by Lou

NORTH OF MELBOURNE, THE GOULBURN REGION DELIVERS AN ART AND FOOD-FUELLED WINTER ROAD TRIP.

VICTORIA’S REGIONS

Rory Daniel

Shepparton Art Museum

A WINTER ROAD TRIP Just an hour north of Melbourne something wonderful happens. As you reach the Great Dividing Range, the clouds open to blue skies, revealing an expanse of rolling hills and abundance. There’s a natural warmth here, and not just in temperature – it’s the people, hospitality and experiences, all of which makes for a perfect road trip to The Goulburn Region.

Muse

Region at the Tallarook Pub. Expect hearty meals served with a smile. Afterwards, take things outdoors and walk or cycle part of The Great Victorian Rail Trail from Tallarook to Trawool, a brisk 28-kilometre journey. You’ll see immersive artworks integrated into the landscape along the trail, like Nook by Donna Marcus. Trawool Estate is another delicious stop, with multiple venues, including the acclaimed Wild Water Restaurant.

REGIONAL FLAVOUR From Melbourne, head north to Tallarook, where you can feast on the abundant flavours of The Goulburn

overnight stay at the hotel or a fireside wine shared with a loved one at Muse. For a deeper cultural perspective, the Mitchelton Gallery of Aboriginal Art is the perfect space to experience a phenomenal collection of artworks. Art lovers should head to Shepparton Art Museum, too, where Facing Modernity: Degas to Picasso (from 23 May) makes its Australian debut along with the 2026 Archibald Prize winners (from 5 September). + goulburnregiontourism.com

OVERNIGHT SENSATION Continue travelling north to Mitchelton Wines, a glorious estate, for a cosy 111

Nature, Intensified

VICTORIA’S GLORIOUS IN WINTER. WILD COASTLINES, DRAMATIC VIEWS AND CRISP, CLEAR DAYS BRING THE REGION’S BEST FEATURES INTO FOCUS.

Tourism North East

NATURE, INTENSIFIED

Falls Creek

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Roberto Seba

Mackenzie Falls

FALLS IN FULL FORCE FRESH TRACKS

WILD WONDERS

It doesn’t matter whether you’re skiing or snowboarding, a learner or have been on the slopes for years, you’ll find exactly the right spot to get your dose of snow in Victoria’s High Country, where Mount Buller, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek are the big resorts. Together, they’ve got about 250 runs across 50 lifts. Got the kids? Mount Baw Baw is closer to Melbourne and perfect for snow play. For something completely different, join Alpine Nature Experience’s Snowshoe to Fondue tour, where you’ll hit the trails to an eco-village for sunset then enjoy a three-course dinner, including a melty cheese dip. + victoriashighcountry.com.au + mountbawbaw.com.au + alpinenatureexperience.com.au

If you’re heading to Mildura, Australia’s citrus and table grape heartland, add an extra day and book a tour to Mungo National Park with Discover Mildura. It takes a full day to get to this extraordinary ancient landscape, explore the Walls of China and learn about the area’s First Peoples history. ♦ Winter is whale season and one of the best places to see them is Phillip Island. Join Wildlife Coast Cruises for your best chance to sight humpback and southern right whales. ♦ Rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean are the sea stacks known as the 12 Apostles. Stop at the lookout for the perfect view. + discovermildura.com.au + wildlifecoastcruises.com.au + parks.vic.gov.au

In the Grampians, rugged ranges, shifting light and wide views open out across the landscape. If you’re tackling the Grampians Peaks Trail or just spending the day nearby, Mackenzie Falls is a must. With the walk to the base of the falls closed for maintenance, the best way to see the cascading water is from the lookout at the top, a stroll from the car park. ♦ A favourite with travellers since the 1860s is Steavenson Falls at Marysville in the High Country, which spills more than 80 metres into a waterhole. ♦ Serious hikers should consider the Southern Circuit Walk at Wilsons Prom. It takes three to five days, but takes those who tackle it to some of the most beautiful and deserted beaches in the state. + visitgrampians.com.au + victoriashighcountry.com.au + parks.vic.gov.au 113

VICTORIA’S REGIONS

Mungo National Park

FRESH PERSPECTIVES CHECK OUT ART GALLERIES AND OTHER CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS IN REGIONAL VICTORIA. Below: Henri Matisse, Espagnole (Buste)/The Spanish Woman, 1922, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, gift of Julian and Josie Robertson through the Auckland Art Gallery Foundation, 2023

VICTORIA’S REGIONS

Electric Wonderland

Facing Modernity: Degas to Picasso

LIT AFTER DARK

ON DISPLAY

CRAFTED HERE

Head to Bendigo’s Rosalind Park for Electric Wonderland (26 June – 12 July), a visual feast of light installations and immersive nighttime moments. ♦ Get into the spirit of the season at Winter Wonderlights (26 June – 19 July), where nightly light projections, faux snow and a festive atmosphere take over Ballarat’s Sovereign Hill. ♦ Take a hot chocolate-fuelled ride after dark on Walhalla Winter Light Trains (Saturdays in August). + electricwonderland.com.au + sovereignhill.com.au + walhallarail.com.au

Shepparton Art Museum is hosting Facing Modernity: Degas to Picasso, which brings together 37 exceptional paintings and sculptures by such luminaries as Salvador Dalí, Henri Matisse and Barbara Hepworth that have never been seen in Australia. ♦ Throughout the Wimmera Mallee, large agricultural structures have been given a colourful makeover. Follow the Silo Art Trail to see these majestic murals. + sheppartonartmuseum.com.au + visitwimmeramallee.com.au

Find a piece for your home at Elizabeth Bell Ceramics, located in the Fyansford Paper Mill precinct, near Geelong. As well as buying handcrafted jugs and noodle bowls, you can sign up for a pottery class. ♦ In Kyneton, Leanne Coates makes her own garment line using Japanese fabrics and sells them alongside pieces from other slow fashion brands, as well as books and stationery, at Cavaletti Gallery. + elizabethbellceramics.com + cavalettigallery.com

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KYABRAM FAUNA PARK

HEALESVILLE SANCTUARY

HEPBURN BATHHOUSE & SPA

Located in Victoria’s historical Goulburn Valley, Kyabram Fauna Park is a must-visit destination for those exploring the Echuca, Kyabram and Shepparton regions. Just a 35-minute drive from both Echuca and Shepparton, the park features expansive wetlands, free-roaming kangaroos, and the world’s most dangerous bird, the cassowary. For a truly unforgettable experience, check out the premium animal experiences.

Healesville Sanctuary, a hidden gem in the Yarra Valley wine region, is the ultimate Australian wildlife experience just outside of Melbourne. Explore beautiful trails in a unique bushland setting and spot kangaroos, koalas, echidnas and more. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Spirits of the Sky presentation where you can watch magnificent birds of prey in action, and the 10 daily animal talks led by our zookeepers, all included with your ticket. For a truly unforgettable adventure, check out the premium animal experiences.

Rejuvenate in Victoria’s tranquil spa country.

Kids visit free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays. 75 Lake Road, Kyabram Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm (excluding Christmas Day) t: 1300 966 784 w: zoo.org.au/kyabram Find us on:

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Kids visit free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays. Glen Eadie Avenue, Healesville Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm t: 1300 966 784 w: zoo.org.au/healesville Find us on:

Experience the contrast therapy ritual, centred on mineral bathing and the restorative effects of heat and cold. Move through cooling mist, a salt-lit sauna and warm magnesium bath with views to nature. Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, this heritage retreat offers a calming reset for winter wellness seekers and road trippers alike. Mineral Springs Reserve Road, Hepburn Springs Open: Sun–Thu, 9am to 7pm; Fri–Sat, 9am to 9pm t: 03 8727 8901 w: hepburnbathhouse.com Find us on:

The Soft Reset

THE SOFT RESET TAKE SOME TIME OUT DURING YOUR VISIT TO RELAX AT ONE OF VICTORIA’S MANY SPAS AND RETREATS.

VICTORIA’S REGIONS

Peninsula Hot Springs

TIME OUT

RETREAT YOURSELF

FEEL THE HEAT

Take time to soak away stresses at the Sanctuary, part of Ballarat Sanctuary Day Spa, before enjoying a massage or facial. Got a little longer? Escape life’s stresses for a few hours with a signature spa journey. Float therapy, saunas, a cold plunge, salt room and body therapies are all on offer at Soult Wellness near Phillip Island. It’s a great way to ease into a beach break. + ballaratsanctuary.com.au + soultwellness.com.au

In Victoria’s High Country, The Benev offers luxe rooms, spa therapies dedicated to restoration, and serene surroundings where you can stroll along bush tracks before returning for nourishing meals. There’s more relaxation to be had at the Bellarine Peninsula’s Lon Retreat & Spa. Springs bring mineral water from deep beneath the earth for soaking spells between spa sessions and strolls around farmland and along the coastline. + thebenev.com.au + lonretreat.com.au

For a Japanese-inspired bathing experience, head to Shizuka Ryokan in Hepburn Springs. It offers private bathing and spa treatments in a pared-back setting with warm timber interiors and a focus on quiet, restorative time, rather than communal soaking. Or, if you’re travelling along the Mornington Peninsula, enjoy nature and a long soak at Peninsula Hot Springs. Somehow the 50 different bathing experiences are even more enticing when the temperature drops. + shizuka.com.au + peninsulahotsprings.com

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BALLARAT WILDLIFE PARK

PHILLIP ISLAND NATURE PARKS

Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne’s city centre, the award-winning Ballarat Wildlife Park offers an unforgettable experience with Australia’s favourite animals.

Experience our wildlife island and help us protect nature by purchasing our best value ticket, the 3 Parks Pass.

Wander through scenic grounds where kangaroos roam freely, meet cuddly koalas and get up close to wombats, dingoes and crocodiles. Daily animal presentations provide fun and educational encounters for all ages. Whether you’re a nature lover or a curious traveller, Ballarat Wildlife Park is a must-visit destination for authentic Aussie wildlife adventures. 250 Fussell Street, Ballarat East Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm t: 03 5333 5933 w: wildlifepark.com.au Find us on:

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Witness one of nature’s true spectacles as little penguins waddle home every night at Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade. Spot koalas, other native wildlife and birdlife in their bushland habitats at the Koala Conservation Reserve, and meet the Highland cattle while experiencing the heritage working farm, historical grounds and beautiful gardens at Churchill Island. Phillip Island Nature Parks is a self-funded organisation. Revenue raised through our attractions is invested in vital research and environment and education programs. See our website for attraction and location information. 1019 Ventnor Road, Summerlands, Phillip Island Open: (Penguin Parade) Daily, from 12pm. Penguins arrive at sunset. t: 03 5951 2830 w: penguins.org.au Find us on:

Michael Turtle

ANCIENT LANDS

VICTORIA’S REGIONS

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE HISTORY AND CULTURE OF VICTORIA’S FIRST PEOPLES. Budj Bim Cultural Landscape

SHARING STORIES

LEARNING CULTURE

TALKING COUNTRY

On Yorta Yorta country near Shepparton, Kaiela Arts is a hub for creativity and connection. As well as hosting exhibitions, the centre has a retail hub and holds cultural workshops so people can learn about Aboriginal culture and history through art making and storytelling. ♦ Bound for the High Country? Pause in Yea and take a walk along the sculpture trail at Yea Wetlands on Taungurung land to see work by Indigenous artists, including Sammy Trist. + kaielaarts.org.au + yeawetlands.com.au

Join a creative workshop, stroll through the gardens (at no cost) where native animals roam, and enjoy a meal made using native ingredients at Wathaurong Booln Booln Cultural Centre, outside of Geelong. ♦ Visit the Grampians (Gariwerd) to explore publicly accessible rock art sites and learn about the region’s deep Indigenous history. Parks Victoria provides guidance on where visitors can access these sites, along with background on the Jardwadjali and Djab Wurrung peoples and the cultural significance of the artworks found across Gariwerd. + wathaurongcc.org.au + parks.vic.gov.au

Experience the Murray River from a Yorta Yorta perspective on the Kingfisher Cruise through the Barmah National Park with Dharnya Centre. It also offers guided walks of the trails that weave through river red gum forest and wetlands. ♦ At Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, tours introduce guests to the kooyang (eel), ancient aquaculture systems, stone house sites and old smoking trees. There’s also a cafe, with meals prepared by a Gunditjmara chef. + dharnyacentre.com.au + budjbim.com.au

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WINTER’S THE TIME TO TOUR TURN TO THE EXPERTS TO ENSURE YOU SEE THE BEST OF THE REGIONS. THESE TOURS WILL GET YOU MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.

CENTRAL DEBORAH GOLD MINE At Central Deborah Gold Mine, descend 61 metres underground to explore the tunnels of a real gold mine. Discover what life as a miner was really like, see how 929 kilograms of gold was extracted and explore historic equipment and heritage-listed buildings on the surface. 76 Violet Street, Bendigo t: 03 4444 2810 w: bendigoheritage.com.au Find us on:

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WILDLIFE COAST CRUISES Experience whale watching along Victoria’s southern coastline. Cruise the waters off Phillip Island and Wilsons Promontory as whales follow their annual migration. Watch for humpback and southern right whales surfacing, tail slapping and occasionally breaching. You may also spot dolphins, seabirds and Australian fur seals in their natural habitat. Phillip Island t: 03 5952 9500 w: wildlifecoastcruises.com.au Find us on:

DUMAWUL

LOCAL WAY TOURS

Explore the rich history and culture of Dja Dja Wurrung Country in Central Victoria, with DUMAWUL’s immersive walking tours. Join knowledgeable Dja Dja Wurrung cultural educators and delve into Djandak (Country). Discover the significance of the region’s landscapes and deepen your understanding as you walk with us.

Warm up this winter on the Mornington Peninsula.

273-277 Hargreaves Street, Bendigo t: 03 5444 2888 w: dumawul.com.au/tours Find us on:

HIDDEN LANES Discover the secrets of Ballarat through intimate, curated walking tours and experiences. Uncover hidden stories and forgotten histories that bring the city to life. Hidden Lanes reveals a side of Ballarat most visitors never see, including grand Goldfields architecture, tucked-away laneways, vintage fashion houses and boutique gin distilleries. 119 Sturt Street, Ballarat Central t: 0455 528 741 w: hiddenlanes.com Find us on:

Join Local Way Tours for a small-group escape from Melbourne, blending coastal scenery, a relaxed winery lunch and three indulgent hours at Peninsula Hot Springs. With daily departures from Melbourne and a focus on comfort and indulgence, it’s winter done right. 100R St Kilda Road, Southbank t: 0417 887 234 w: localwaytours.com.au Find us on:

HEALESVILLE SANCTUARY – SKY COUNTRY TOURS Journey through Sky Country at Healesville Sanctuary in an after-hours guided experience with award-winning author and astrophysicist Krystal De Napoli. Walk beneath dark skies to Lake Coranderrk, exploring Indigenous astronomy, constellations and seasons, and the importance of protecting dark skies for nature, culture, storytelling and science. Glen Eadie Avenue, Healesville t: 1300 966 784 w: zoo.org.au/healesville Find us on: 121

Traveller Tips

TRAVELLER TIPS HERE ARE SOME HANDY TIPS TO HELP YOUR VISIT RUN SMOOTHLY.

DISCOVER WHAT’S ON Discover the latest events and what’s happening right now across Melbourne and Victoria. + visitvictoria.com/whats-on

BOOK AHEAD Victoria’s most popular experiences can book out fast, especially on weekends and holidays. Secure your spot early and explore by region or interest to make the most of your visit.

TOURS Whether it’s arming yourself with a map and making your own way around or joining a professional tour, you’ll uncover Melbourne and Victoria’s hidden treasures. So, get onto the footpath, jump in a luxury coach, climb aboard a boat or join a group and discover Victoria. + visitvictoria.com/tours

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES For travel recommendations, itinerary planning or to find out about experiences and local attractions, head to a Visitor Information Centre, found throughout Victoria. + visitvictoria.com/visitorinformation-centres 122

ACCESSIBLE VICTORIA There are accessible activities, attractions, accommodation and transport options across Victoria. Travellers Aid at Southern Cross, Parkville and Flinders Street Stations in Melbourne, and Seymour, Geelong and Ballarat Stations in regional Victoria offers assistance to anyone who needs it. Bookings are essential. Some services attract a small fee. + visitvictoria.com/practicalinformation/accessible-victoria + travellersaid.org.au

PLAN BEFORE YOU TRAVEL Plan ahead of travel by checking Victoria’s weather and safety warnings. + emergency.vic.gov.au/prepare

with trains, trams and buses linking suburbs across the city. The City Circle Tram offers a free loop service around key attractions in the city centre. For travel beyond the city, regional trains and coach services connect Melbourne to destinations across Victoria. Most services operate under the myki ticketing system, providing seamless access across the network. + transport.vic.gov.au

SELF-DRIVE Victoria welcomes safe drivers. We want you to have a fantastic holiday and this means staying safe on our roads. Be sure to acquaint yourself with local laws and know-how. + visitmelbourne.com/practicalinformation/getting-here-andaround/self-drive

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS Melbourne and Victoria observe several public holidays that may affect business hours and transport services. Plan ahead, especially around major events, to avoid disruptions during your visit. + visitvictoria.com/practicalinformation/public-holidays

GETTING AROUND PUBLIC TRANSPORT Melbourne’s public transport network is well-connected and easy to navigate,

RIDE SHARE A wide range of ride share options is available across Victoria, with many offering accessible services by request. + visitvictoria.com/practicalinformation

SCAN FOR MORE ON GETTING AROUND

EMERGENCY CONTACTS Emergency Services 000 Police, Fire, Ambulance Poisons Information 13 11 26

AIRPORT ACCESS

KEEP SAFE IN AN EMERGENCY Victoria is a safe and welcoming destination, but it’s important to take the same precautions with personal safety and belongings as you would anywhere else. VicEmergency is a helpful source of state emergency information from Emergency Management Victoria. Stay informed of conditions before you visit anywhere unfamiliar. + emergency.vic.gov.au

PHARMACIES (CHEMISTS) These can be found across Melbourne and Victoria for general advice and medical supplies. + findapharmacy.com.au

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BEACH AND SUN SAFETY Beaches can be dangerous, with rips and undercurrents, so make sure you always swim between the yellow and red flags on lifeguard-patrolled beaches. Australia has some of the highest UV levels in the world, with 15 minutes in the sun enough for your skin to burn. It’s important to regularly apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing when spending time outdoors, at any time of year. + beachsafe.org.au + sunsmart.com.au

WI-FI AND CONNECTIVITY Wi-Fi is freely available at many spots across the inner city. In addition, Wi-Fi, as well as standard national and mobile calls, are free of charge from all public Telstra payphone locations around Australia. + vic.gov.au/find-vicfreewifihotspots-victoria + telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/ payphones

SCAN FOR MORE TRAVEL INFORMATION

Melbourne East Police Station 03 9637 1100 202 Bourke Street, Melbourne Melbourne West Police Station 03 9624 3999 313 Spencer Street, Docklands Nurse-On-Call 1300 60 60 24 Free professional health advice Royal Melbourne Hospital 03 9342 7000 300 Grattan Street, Parkville St Vincent’s Hospital 03 9231 2211 41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy Alfred Health 03 9076 2000 55 Commercial Road, Melbourne The Royal Children’s Hospital 03 9345 5522 50 Flemington Road, Parkville Wildlife Victoria 03 8400 7300 To seek help for injured wildlife

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USEFUL INFORMATION

SkyBus offers convenient travel, connecting passengers from Melbourne and Avalon Airports to Melbourne city. Services operate seven days a week, including public holidays, and can be booked on arrival or in advance. + skybus.com.au

City Map

SCAN THE QR CODE TO ACCESS THE MELBOURNE OFFICIAL VISITOR MAP ONLINE.

Transport Maps

TRANSPORT MAPS STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE Getting around

Melbourne tram network

All you need to know about public transport in Victoria.

Town Hall NDE RS Station F LI

LINS

E RD VAL OT

QUE EN ST

G ST

ST STA TION

MON ORIA

AVE

MILLS ST

VICT

ACL

HTO

AND

BRIG

DTP1064/26

South Kensington

Noble Park

Southland

Dandenong Hallam

Murrayville

Lynbrook

Seaford

Bonbeach

Carrum

FRANKSTON

Kananook

Baxter

Leawarra

Tyabb

Somerville

To Griffith

Manangatang

Bittern

Cardinia Road

Hastings

Crib Point

Morradoo

Tocumwal

Deniliquin

9 Swan Hill

Barham

Nathalia

Barmah

Moama

Cobram

Mulwala

Yarrawonga

Corowa

transport.vic.gov.au

Numurkah Hopetoun

Sea Lake

Kerang

Cohuna

9 Shepparton

Echuca 9

Birchip

Warracknabeal

REGIONAL TRAIN AND COACH NETWORK

Nhill

Horsham

Rupanyup

Murtoa

Wedderburn

St Arnaud

Heathcote

Malmsbury

Kyneton 9

9 Gisborne

Creswick Beaufort

Halls Gap

Caroline Cobblebank 9 Springs 9

Ballan 9

Rockbank

Wendouree 9

Melton 9

Skipton

Mortlake Terang

Colac 9

9 Winchelsea

Camperdown 9 Birregurra

Sherwood Park Port Fairy

Port Campbell

Apollo Bay

Little River Lara 9 Corio

South Geelong 9

North Shore North Geelong 9 GEELONG 9

Melbourne Airport

Deer Park Ardeer 9 A Sunshine Wyndham Vale 9

THE OVERLAND

Marshall 9

Waurn Ponds 9

Warrnambool 9

A Sunbury

A Watergardens

Tarneit 9

Lismore

Derrinallum Koroit

Heywood Portland

BALLARAT 9 Bacchus Marsh 9

Glenthompson Dunkeld

Casterton Mount Gambier

Romsey

9 Clarkefield

Clunes

Hamilton

Lancefield

Macedon

9 Riddells Creek

Talbot

A Footscray A SOUTHERN CROSS

Avalon Airport

To Canberra

Wodonga 9

Beechworth

SEYMOUR 9

To Canberra

Tallarook

Bright

Broadford 9 Kilmore

Woodend 9

Daylesford

9 Maryborough

Ararat 9

Avenel

BENDIGO 9

Kangaroo Flat 9

Avoca

Stawell

To Sydney

Chiltern

Violet Town Euroa

Nagambie

Castlemaine 9

Albury

Springhurst

Benalla 9

Murchison

Huntly Epsom

Eaglehawk

Dunolly

Dimboola

Stanhope

Goornong

Raywood

THE OVERLAND

Wangaratta 9 Murchison East

Elmore

Dingee

To Adelaide

Rutherglen

Mooroopna

Kyabram

Rochester

Pyramid

Donald

East Pakenham

STONY POINT

Finley

Piangil

DTP1064/26

PAKENHAM

Officer Beaconsfield

CRANBOURNE

Chelsea

Effective 1 February 2026 © Department of Transport and Planning 2026

To Adelaide

Berwick Narre Warren

Merinda Park

Edithvale

Robinvale

Metropolitan line stations staffed 7am to 9am Monday to Friday. Regional line staffed station hours are available on the website. Ouyen

Nar Nar Goon

Yarraman

Mentone

Aspendale

Mildura 9

Stations staffed first to last train seven days a week.

Tynong

Sandown Park

Mordialloc

myki required to travel, or use contactless payments where available. Paper ticket or eTicket required to travel.

SkyBus airport shuttle terminus. For full stop and route information visit skybus.com.au Pinnaroo

Garfield

Springvale

Parkdale Zone 1 and 2 boundary

Lift or ramp access into all stations except Heyington.

Bunyip

Westall

Cheltenham

Regional ticketing fare zones

Metropolitan ticketing fare zones Stony Point Line Special event Line

Drouin Longwarry

Clayton

Highett

SANDRINGHAM

Regional trains travelling towards Melbourne terminate at Southern Cross Station.

Frankston Line

Interchange station

Traralgon Line – Bairnsdale

West Tarneit construction complete 2026

Sandringham Line

Craigieburn and Upfield lines

Mernda and Hurstbridge lines

Moe Yarragon Warragul

Huntingdale

Moorabbin

Hampton

Trafalgar

Oakleigh

Patterson

Brighton Beach

Morwell

GLEN WAVERLEY

Syndal

Hughesdale

Bentleigh

Regional train and coach network Lilydale, Belgrave, Alamein and Glen Waverley lines

Sale Rosedale

Jordanville

Murrumbeena

McKinnon

Middle Brighton

Ballarat Line – Ararat, Maryborough Bendigo Line – Swan Hill, Echuca

Seymour Line – Shepparton, Albury

Metro Tunnel stations Arden, Parkville, State Library, Town Hall and Anzac

Cranbourne, Pakenham and Sunbury Line

Stratford

TRARALGON

Mount Waverley

Holmesglen

East Malvern

Carnegie

Ormond

North Brighton

Geelong Line – Warrnambool

BAIRNSDALE

ALAMEIN

Glen Iris Darling

Glen Huntly

Gardenvale

Regional train lines City Loop stations Flinders Street, Southern Cross, Flagstaff, Melbourne Central and Parliament

Ashburton

Gardiner

Caulfield

Ripponlea

Metropolitan train lines

BELGRAVE

Tooronga

Elsternwick

Werribee, Laverton and Williamstown Line

Burwood

Kooyong

Malvern

Balaclava

Sherwood Park

Hartwell

Hawthorn Heyington

Hawksburn Toorak Armadale

Prahran Windsor

WARRNAMBOOL

Willison

Auburn Glenferrie

Burnley

East Richmond

South Yarra

Anzac

Tecoma

Flinders Street

WILLIAMSTOWN

Upwey

Jolimont Richmond

Williamstown Beach

Port Phillip Bay

Upper Ferntree Gully

Riversdale

Town Hall

North Williamstown

Seaholme

Colac Terang

LILYDALE

Ferntree Gully

Chatham

East Camberwell

Camberwell

Mooroolbark

Croydon

Boronia

Canterbury

Victoria Park Collingwood North Richmond West Richmond

HURSTBRIDGE

Wattle Glen

Ringwood East

Bayswater

Box Hill Union

Clifton Hill

Birregurra

Ringwood

Heatherdale Heathmont

Laburnum

Fairfield Dennis

State Library

Winchelsea

Eltham

Mitcham

Newport

Westona

Waurn Ponds

Greensborough

Nunawading

Westgarth

Parliament

Diamond Creek

Montmorency

Macleod

Blackburn

Eaglemont Ivanhoe Darebin

Rushall

Melbourne Central Southern Cross

MERNDA

Hawkstowe

Watsonia

Alphington

Merri

Parkville

Seddon

Camperdown

HAWTHORN RD

Footscray

Heidelberg

Bell Croxton Northcote

Flagstaff

Middle Gorge South Morang

Rosanna

Thornbury

Flemington Bridge Macaulay Arden

Epping

Lalor

Preston

Brunswick

Jewell

Royal Park

Newmarket

Yarraville

Altona

LAVERTON

Marshall

KILD

North Geelong GEELONG

Regent

Spotswood

Aircraft

South Geelong

Reservoir

Moreland Anstey

North Melbourne

Williams Landing

ALBURY

Wangaratta

Thomastown Keon Park Ruthven

Coburg

West Middle Tottenham Footscray Footscray

Hoppers Crossing

Wodonga

East Chiltern Brighton

Violet Town

Merlynston Batman

Strathmore Glenbervie

Moonee Ponds

WERRIBEE

Carnegie

GLEN HUNTLY RD

Glen Huntly Springhurst Station

Benalla

Station

Avenel

WAVERLEY RD

Caulfield Station Caulfield Racecourse

SHEPPARTON

GLEN HUNTLY RD Murchison East Elsternwick Euroa

Essendon

Kensington

Sunshine

Deer Park

West Tarneit*

North Shore

BALACLAVA RD

Balaclava Station

NagambieBalaclava Mooroopna

UPFIELD Gowrie Fawkner

Pascoe Vale

Ascot Vale

Showgrounds

St Albans

Corio

East Malvern

CARLISLE ST

Jacana

Ginifer

Ardeer

K ST

Glenroy

Albion

Tarneit

Watergardens

Avalon Airport

Lara

Flemington Racecourse

Keilor Plains

Caroline Springs

/ PAR

St Kilda

transport.vic.gov.au

Diggers Rest

Wyndham Vale

WATTLETREE RD

Malvern Station

Oak Park

Melbourne Airport

SUNBURY

Little River

Cabrini Hospital

DANDENONG RD

Y RD

CHAPEL ST

Clarkefield

Rockbank

Malvern

Armadale Station

Windsor Station

Riddells Creek

Melton

HIGH ST

St Kilda Junction

BUR

Broadmeadows

Gisborne

Cobblebank

TER

Glen Iris Station

Glen Iris

Toorak Station

Prahran Station

Coolaroo

Kyneton Macedon

Creswick

Ballan

DAN

South Melbourne Beach

Free Tram Zone

Malmsbury

MARYBOROUGH Talbot

Bacchus Marsh

CAN

Vermont South

Gardiner Station

MALVERN RD

HIGH ST

Luna Park Heathcote Kilmore Zone 1 Donnybrook Junction East Tallarook Zone 2 Wallan Wandong Broadford SEYMOUR St Kilda Effective February 2026 Beach © Department ofCRAIGIEBURN Transport and Planning 2025 Roxburgh Park Not to scale, not all stops shown

Woodend

MELBOURNE TRAIN NETWORK

Prahran Market

COMMERCIAL RD

Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre

TAG

Tram to tram connection Eaglehawk

Toorak

South Yarra Station

TOORAK RD

K ST

Albert Park Lake

K ST

GLENFERRIE RD

PAR

ALBERT RD

Tram interchange Raywood

Dingee

STURT ST

Fare zones

Clunes

BALLARAT

Shrine of Remembrance Anzac Station

PAR

Alfred Hospital S

Tram crossroad connection Tram to train connection Train station within short walk of stop City train station Kangaroo Flat Hospital Castlemaine

Wendouree

WAY

BURWOOD HWY

KILD

Hartwell Station Deakin University Kooyong Station

CHAPEL ST

KING

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

ESP

KIN

RAR

DON

Wattle Park

Riversdale Station

RIVERSDALE RD

Burnley Station

Sidney Myer Music Bowl

ROY

BOU

Port Melbourne

Port Phillip Bay

Tram route Tram route with Night Network service BENDIGO Huntly Free City Circle Tram route Epsom Goornong Tram route termination

SWAN ST

East Richmond Station

Hamer Hall/ Arts Centre Melbourne/ NGV International

FITZ

HAR

FER

South Melbourne Market

REN

Hawthorn Station

Richmond Station

Melbourne Park

Arts Precinct

Southbank Theatre/ Melbourne Recital Centre ACCA Malthouse Theatre

Box Hill Station

Camberwell Station

BURWOOD RD

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Jolimont Station

Fed Square NGV Australia Koorie Heritage Trust

Flinders Street Station

CLA

Routes and symbols

Pyramid

Glenferrie Station

POWER ST

COL

Box Hill

Box Hill Hospital

WHITEHORSE RD

Camberwell

BURKE RD

RKE

TER

COTHAM RD

CHURCH ST

TH BOU

Melbourne Aquarium

CAS

HIGH ST

ABE

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre SOUTH WHARF

Victorian train network

Kerang

CHURCH ST

ELIZ

Station Pier

Beaufort

SMITH ST

SDA

Yarra River

SWAN HILL

North Richmond

Epworth Hospital

SOUTHBANK

ARARAT

North Richmond Station

St Patrick’s Cathedral

Parliament Station

ACMI

North Balwyn

er Riv

Kew

BRIDGE RD

Casino

Elmore

NCE

LON

Southern Cross Station

Victoria Harbour Docklands

Rochester

ING

NST

L ST

SPE

DOCKLANDS SkyBus Docklands Stadium

COL

ECHUCA

SPR

SWA

SEL

ION

CHINATOWN

rra

DON

LIAM

TRO

WIL

Flagstaff Station

Central Pier Docklands

You don’t need a myki if you’re only travelling in the Free Tram Zone or on the City Circle Tram.

Melbourne events

HIGH ST

MACARTHUR ST

RUS

PEEL ST

The District Docklands

Victoria Harbour

Going to a major event? We often add extra public transport services. Visit our website for the latest updates.

BRUNSWICK ST

TRO

IBIT

ERROL ST

Melbourne Central Station

Kew Junction HIGH

Victoria Gardens VICTORIA ST

EXH

DROOP ST

Plan your journey at transport.vic.gov.au

ST GEORGE S RD

ASC

GILBERT RD

State Library Station

DOCKLANDS DR

Travel on the City Circle Tram (Route 35) is also free. Hop on and off the historic trams as often as you like and hear the stories of Melbourne. They loop clockwise around the CBD and Docklands every 12 minutes between 9.30am and 5pm daily.

NICHOLSON ST

SWANSTON ST

GTO

LAR

MIN

ABBOTSFORD ST

FLE

BAL

Haymarket

VICTORIA ST

Waterfront City Docklands

Clifton Hill Station

St Vincent’s Plaza

St Vincent’s Hospital

VICTORIA PDE

Queen Victoria Market

Bundoora RMIT

La Trobe University

Westgarth Station

Rushall Station

GERTRUDE ST

Melbourne Museum Royal Exhibition Building

Parkville Station Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

Footscray Station

Croxton Station Northcote Station Merri Station

Melbourne University

ELGIN ST

Royal Melbourne Hospital

PLENTY

Thornbury Station

East Brunswick

LYGON ST

ROYAL PDE

GORDON ST

Arden Station

West Preston

MORELAND RD

Moreland

Royal Park Station Melbourne Zoo Royal Children’s Hospital Royal Women’s Hospital

Footscray

The Free Tram Zone includes the city centre and extends to Queen Victoria Market and Docklands.

East Coburg

NICHOLSON ST

MELVILLE RD

Abbotsford Interchange

Free tram travel for all

SYDNEY RD

EPS

MELBOURNE TRAM NETWORK

Anstey Station

Jewell Station

Highpoint Flemington Melbourne Shopping Bridge Showgrounds Centre / Flemington Racecourse Newmarket RACECOURSE RD Station

Footscray Hospital

North Coburg

Coburg Station

Brunswick Station

DER

Once you have a myki card, download the free PTV App, select the myki icon, scan your myki card and follow the prompts to instantly add funds.

MARIBYRNONG RD

Moreland Station

XAN

Make sure you tap your myki on and off when you travel.

Top up instantly

Moonee Ponds

ALE

Those with a Victorian Seniors myki card can also travel free on weekends.

You can buy and top up full fare and concession mykis at hundreds of shops (including all 7-Eleven stores), myki machines and station ticket offices. Regional tickets are available online or at the PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station.

Batman Station

West Coburg

Essendon Station

West Maribyrnong

Buying and travelling

Airport West

Anyone aged 5 to 17 years can travel free on all public transport with a Youth myki. Buy one at a staffed train station or on our website, then tap on and off when travelling. Children under 5 don’t need a ticket to travel.

Free travel across Victoria

myki is the reusable card for travel on trains, trams and buses in Melbourne, and some parts of regional Victoria. eTickets or paper tickets are needed for all other parts of regional Victoria.

KEIL

Tickets

Kilmore East 9

To Narooma & Batemans Bay

Mount Beauty

Wandong

Genoa

Heathcote Junction Wallan 9

Orbost

Donnybrook Craigieburn A

Mount Buller

Mansfield

9 Bairnsdale

Yea

Broadmeadows A Essendon A

Maffra

Stratford

Rosedale

Eildon

Ringwood

Flinders Street A

Marlo

Paynesville Sale 9

Whittlesea

North Melbourne A

Mallacoota Cann River

Lakes Entrance

TRARALGON 9 Morwell 9 Moe 9

Richmond A

Trafalgar

Caulfield A

Yarragon

Clayton A Dandenong A Berwick# A

Nar Nar Goon

Anglesea

Pakenham A

Lorne

Koo Wee Rup

Warragul 9 Garfield

Tynong

Bunyip

Drouin 9 Longwarry

Lang Lang Korumburra Anderson

Leongatha Yarram

Train and coach lines

Train and coach interchange Coach interchange

V/Line coach – paper ticket or eTicket required Mt Buller Seasonal Services Additional fare required The Overland – to Adelaide Run by another operator

Limited services at Berwick Station

DTP1064/26

Interchange with metropolitan train services

SCAN THE QR CODE TO DOWNLOAD

126

Symbols

V/Line train – travel with myki V/Line train – paper ticket or eTicket required

Train station and coach stop Train station

Wonthaggi

Customer service hub For opening hours visit transport.vic.gov.au State boundary

Coach stop End of line

Airport connections SkyBus services

Cowes (Phillip Island)

Cape Paterson

Inverloch

transport.vic.gov.au

Under 18s travel free on all public transport with a Youth myki

DTP1315/25

Get a Youth myki

transport.vic.gov.au/youthmyki Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

Seasonal Offers

SEASONAL OFFERS

SCAN THE QR CODE TO GET SEASONAL DEALS STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE

5% OFF ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

FREE LUXURY COACH TRANSFERS

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Chadstone

Enjoy 5% off an animal encounter.

Enjoy free luxury coach transfers to and from Fed Square and Chadstone, Australia’s leading lifestyle destination and the largest shopping centre in the Southern Hemisphere.

250 Fussell Street, Ballarat 03 5333 5933 wildlifepark.com.au info@wildlifepark.com.au Use promo code: WINTER5

1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone 03 9567 1062 chadstone.com.au chadstone.shuttle@vicinity.com.au

T&Cs apply: Scan QR code for details.

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Experience 10% off Bathhouse and Sanctuary mineral bathing at Australia’s historic bathhouse near Daylesford. Discover the rich heritage of this much-loved wellness destination.

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Mineral Springs Reserve Road, Hepburn Springs 03 8727 8901 hepburnbathhouse.com reservations@hepburnbathhouse.com

LEGO® Store Melbourne Central, Level 2, Shop 240, Melbourne Central, Cnr LaTrobe and Swanston streets, Melbourne 03 8398 9193 lego.bricksmegastore.com

T&Cs apply: Scan QR code for details.

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LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Melbourne

MCG Tours and Australian Sports Museum

Enjoy a 15% discount on adult and child tickets purchased on-site or online at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Melbourne.

Discover one of the world’s most iconic stadiums and celebrate Australia’s unique sporting culture with 20% off tickets.

Level 2/1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone legolanddiscoverycentre.com/melbourne

Gate 3, Melbourne Cricket Ground 03 9657 8879 australiansportsmuseum.org.au contactus@australiansportsmuseum.org.au

Use promo code: OVG15 T&Cs apply: Scan QR code for details.

Present this coupon or use promo code: OVG20 T&Cs apply: Scan QR code for details.

132

WINTER 2026

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T&Cs apply: Scan QR code for details.

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T&Cs apply: Scan QR code for details.

Use promo code: OVGSpecial15 T&Cs apply: Scan QR code for details.

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10% DISCOUNT ON TICKETS

Queen Victoria Market

SEA LIFE Melbourne

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Enjoy a 10% discount on adult and child tickets purchased on-site or online at SEA LIFE Melbourne.

Bookings essential. 0437 190 249 qvm.com.au/tours tours@qvm.com.au Use promo code: WINTER2026 T&Cs apply: Scan QR code for details.

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SEASONAL COUPONS

20% OFF RIVER TOURS

OFFICIAL VISITOR MAP

YOUR ESSENTIAL MAP A comprehensive snapshot of Melbourne’s inner city and surrounding suburbs, must-visit experiences, travel tips and public transport information. Grab your FREE copy today. visitvictoria.com/officialmapmelbourne

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READ IT ONLINE Keep up to date with the latest events, attractions, activities, food and drink with the Official Visitor Guide to Melbourne and Victoria. visitvictoria.com/officialvisitorguide

Visit Victoria produces the Official Visitor Guide to Melbourne and Victoria, publishing independently commissioned and sponsored content in collaboration with partners of the Victorian visitor economy. visitvictoria.com For all enquiries and orders, get in touch with the team today: e: officialvisitorproducts@visitvictoria.com.au w: corporate.visitvictoria.com/resources/marketing-opportunities

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THE ARCTIC BIT COME WINTER IN VICTORIA

ALPINE NATURE EXPERIENCE, MOUNT HOTHAM

Have you heard about the arctic bit of winter in Victoria? That’s the crunch of fresh snow under your feet, endless stars above your head, and the toasty warmth of a cosy igloo… kind of arctic. VISITVICTORIA.COM