Don’t let the frigid temperature fool you — Melbourne turns on its true charm in winter. Top Melbourne restaurants and bars have lit fireplaces and inviting atmospheres to escape to for a few hours with friends. Plus, the city’s labyrinth of laneways and boutiques are even more quaint in the cold, while the rich arts scene and AFL games (footy is a religion in this town) offer entertainment in spades.
On your next cosy winter trip to Melbourne, stay at one of the perfectly positioned Marriott Bonvoy Hotels to be in the thick of the action. Adding extra allure to a winter getaway, book a 2-night stay and receive a complimentary welcome drink, up to $100 of hotel credit toward a culinary experience, and a leisurely late 1pm check out with the ‘Room for More’ package.
So, book your flights for a memorable mini-escape in Melbourne this winter, and prepare to experience some of the city’s best dining haunts, ambient bars, boutique shopping, and a stay at a top hotel.
Day 1
8am
Drop your bags at the award winning Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne — one the city’s most popular and opulent hotels. Rising 80 stories above the CBD, its panoramic views take in the Dandenong Ranges, Victoria Harbour and Port Phillip Bay, giving visitors a unique vantage point from which to gain a sense of the city.
9.30am
Visit the iconic Queen Victoria Market — a must on any food lover’s to-do list. The 146-year-old Melbourne institution is well-loved for its bustling atmosphere and popular food stalls. Taste your way through an abundance of freshly made foods at your leisure, or, for extra insight, book the Ultimate Foodie Tour and enjoy a guided exploration of the market where you will taste fresh produce from some of the market’s best stalls. When you’re done, warm up with a cup of your favourite brew from socially conscious coffee roasters Market Lane, which has a cult-like following among locals.
12pm
It seems the burger craze phase is quietly returning to Melbourne so when you’re ready for lunch, head to Shush Burger and Bar by Sean Connolly. Tucked away on the first floor at Courtyard by Marriott, behind floor-to-ceiling curtains, this casual gem has a reputation for juicy burgers served with a side of disco (and fries, of course). Try the chicken wings with arbol chilli sauce or the Shush Grand Master burger for something larger.
2pm
For the culture seekers, take a creative stroll around the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art. Exhibiting this winter is the Future Remains: The 2024 Macfarlane Commissions, which supports emerging and mid-career artists. Seven artists will be exhibiting a large and diverse variety of pieces — so there’s sure to be something for everyone.
5.30pm
Did someone say cocktails? Curious, one of the city’s most stunning cocktail bars located underground within the W Hotel, offers an intriguing cocktail menu and warm, inviting atmosphere with its awarded interior design and plush seating. Forget all about the chill outside as you indulge in some of the best cocktails from the past and an incredible music programme featuring some of Melbourne’s best DJs.
7pm
Head back to the Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne for a sky-high dinner at Atria where you can enjoy stunning unbeatable views of the city skyline at night from the 80th floor. Honouring Australian produce and local growers and fishers, the menu changes monthly to hero the best seasonal produce. Try one of their signature dishes, the Victorian Crudo, which showcases lesser-known local seafood.
10pm
What’s better after a busy day exploring the city than to retire to your elegantly designed room that combines luxury with relaxation, and of course, more of those spectacular views. It’s time to hit the pillow before another thrilling day tomorrow.
Day 2
8am
Step out and enjoy a morning walk around one of Melbourne’s beautiful gardens. The Tan is a 3.8-kilometre track around the Royal Botanical Gardens and is easily a favourite activity for locals and visitors alike.
10am
Melbourne is renowned for its style, with the city filled with high-end boutiques, luxury lifestyle stores and eclectic artisanal shops. Knowing where they are, however, can be a different story, so a walking tour of the city’s laneways and arcades is a fun way to experience the city, while uncovering some truly unique Melbourne stores.
1pm
Melbourne’s entertainment scene shines even brighter during winter. Theatre lovers can choose between not one but two blockbuster international productions: Wicked (until 25 August) and Beauty and the Beast (until November). Grab a cocktail next door at the stunning Westin Melbourne before the show — Wicked‘s official hotel partner. If the theatre isn’t for you, get a dose of excitement and the buzz of the crowds with a live game of footy at Marvel or the home of sport, the MCG.
6pm
Channelling the glamour of 1930s Hollywood, Dolly at Le Méridien is the perfect venue to debrief your afternoon, while enjoying artfully presented food inspired by its location, deep in the heart of the theatre district.
After dinner
Not quite ready for bed? Dress to impress and head to the award-winning Cameo bar on the Ritz-Carlton rooftop for a dazzling selection of rare vintages, top-shelf spirits and timeless cocktails — plus another chance to drink in those sweeping Melbourne views.
Ready for your winter escape to Melbourne? Book now.
