Leah Glynn

Cosmic chasers, this one's for you! When you combine vast stretches of national park, clear dark night skies and zero light pollution, you've got the perfect conditions for stargazing in Australia. From tracking the Milky Way in the outback to visiting world-class dark sky reserves, the Aussie night sky is unmatched. Our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley reckons Exmouth's Cape Range National Park has the best night sky on the planet, and she'd love to go stargazing at South Australia's Arkaroola – the country's first internationally recognised dark sky sanctuary. Here's your ultimate guide to the best stargazing spots in Australia. When is the best time to go stargazing in Australia?  Generally, the experts say winter for the crispest air and sharpest visuals. That being said, anytime from February to October should deliver the goods in any of the spots we've listed across the nation.  ☀️ The best places to watch the sunrise in Australia🌅 The best sunsets in Australia

A thermal dip in one of the best natural hot springs in Australia can solve (almost) all your problems! The healing powers of these mineral-rich geothermal pools have been celebrated, worshipped and enjoyed by humans across the world for millennia. Today, this ancient tradition is more popular than ever, with travellers seeking out hidden oases to relax, recharge and connect with nature.  From the turquoise thermal pools of the Northern Territory to the luxury mineral bathhouses of Victoria, the Land Down Under is home to some of the most incredible geothermal wonders on Earth. In this list, we've rounded up the best hot springs in Australia – and tell you exactly where to find them. Pack your towel, your togs and your sense of adventure! 💙 The best natural pools in Australia😱 The best waterfalls in Australia Remember that there are always risks involved with swimming, especially at unpatrolled places. Always take care to check things such as depth and currents before swimming or jumping into water, and confirm that others you’re swimming with are confident in the water before entering any swimming spot. If you're not a confident, experienced swimmer, avoid unpatrolled swimming spots altogether.

One of the greatest advantages of living in a city is having world-class art and culture right on your doorstep. On any given day, you can spend the morning seeing world-famous works of art, the afternoon browsing bookshops and poking around indie galleries, and the evening at a comedy night (or the theatre, or a gig). Then there’s all the other stuff, like neighbourhood cinemas, street art, traditional festivals and museum lates. The best bit? In many of the world’s best cities, you can experience all that wonderful human creativity for free.  Every year, Time Out sets out to find today’s cultural capitals, where enviable art collections, brilliant theatre, music and cultural celebrations are accessible and affordable to locals and visitors. To create the list this year, we asked 24,000 locals in over 150 cities to rate the quality and affordability of the culture scene where they live, and to tell us exactly what their city does best, from comedy and carnivals to live music and literature. We then combined their responses with the insight of Time Out’s culture panel – editors, writers and local experts – who voted for the cities they think are particularly exciting places to visit for culture and the arts right now. To ensure the list reflects the best cities for culture globally, we included only the highest-scoring cities for each country. In every city on this list, you’ll find legendary arts venues and absolutely jam-packed cultural calendars. Time Out’s local experts a

It's the weekend, baby! You made it! To celebrate, we've gathered all the hottest festivals, shows, exhibitions and openings in one place – you're welcome.   The Big Design Market returns this weekend with its 'Almost Winter' edition, featuring more than 250 stalls selling everything from ceramics and jewellery to fashion, homewares and lifestyle products. Melbourne Design Week continues right through to Sunday with exhibitions, talks and workshops to check out, while Malthouse's Game. Set. Match. finishes on Saturday night – this rom-com with a twist has a final scene you won't forget for a long time. For a little taste of the French Alps right here in Melbourne, head to the Fondue Chalet at Fed Square, where you can indulge in mulled wine, gooey raclette cheese and cosy vibes galore. Keen for an autumn road trip? The Ballarat Heritage Festival returns this weekend, and it invites visitors to look beyond the Gold Rush and uncover the stories and events that have shaped this remarkable regional city. There will be market stalls, a vintage car show, special exhibitions, yummy food and the hilarious Ballarat Beard and Stache Competition. And remember, you can always rely on our catch-all lists of Melbourne's best bars, restaurants, museums, parks and galleries, or consult our bucket list of the best things to do in Melbourne before you die.   Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. The fun doesn't s

Social calendar looking a bit empty? Don't worry, we've got you. There's always something happening in Melbourne, and this week is no different – so let's dive right in!   Waitress, the sweet-as-pie musical with a star-studded cast, has officially landed in Melbourne, and it's a sugary slice of wholesome musical theatre. For something with a little more bite, The Book of Mormon is still showing at the Princess Theatre. Pint of Origin enters its second week, and it's your chance to try more than 800 beers from right across the world. Our picks? Benchwarmer is showcasing Japanese brewers, and the Lincoln is pouring Tassie froffs. Melbourne Design Week is also continuing until May 24, and there are more than 400 events, exhibitions, talks and workshops to explore across the program. And if you're craving mulled wine, gooey raclette cheese and cosy alpine vibes, the Fondue Chalet at Fed Square is the place to be. When in doubt though, you can always rely on our catch-all lists of Melbourne's best bars, restaurants, museums, parks and galleries, or consult our bucket list of the best things to do in Melbourne before you die.   Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Counting down to Friday? Here's our guide to all the fun things happening in Melbourne this weekend.

New York has Broadway, London has the West End, and here in Melbourne, it's all about the East End. We're an all-singing, all-dancing city which means we're spoiled for choice when it comes to the musicals taking centre stage in the historic East End Theatre District in the CBD. From glitzy theatrical numbers and singalong musicals to smaller-scale productions, Melbourne is an absolute haven when it comes to all things razzle-dazzle. See for yourself by checking out the new and upcoming musicals making their way here in 2026. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Book the best spot with our guide to scoring the best seats in every Melbourne theatre. Keen on all kinds of theatre? Here are the best shows happening this month.

May 2026: May is a month to celebrate the motherly figures in our lives, so what better time to go and check out the NGV's free 'Mother' exhibition – which brings together more than 200 works to examine the experience of being, becoming and relating to motherhood. Over at the State Library Victoria, don't miss 'Rebel Heart: Love Letters and Other Declarations', which explores forbidden love stories and rebellious romances. And 'Rome: Empire, Power, People' is still going strong at Melbourne Museum. There's always something to see in this all-embracing city of ours, so don't let the month pass you by without getting your fix of the best art, culture and exhibitions in Melbourne. When in doubt, you can also always rely on our catch-all lists of Melbourne's best bars, restaurants, museums, parks and galleries, or consult our bucket list of the best things to do in Melbourne before you die.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Keen to add some art to your home? These are the best places to buy art in Melbourne.

May 2026: Fresh outta the oven and served up hot to an adoring audience at Her Majesty’s Theatre, 'Waitress the Musical' arrives in Melbourne as a sugary slice of wholesome musical theatre. With a star-studded cast it's sure to satisfy a hungry crowd. For a rom-com with smarts and shade – and a final act that you won't soon forget – don't miss Malthouse's 'Game. Set. Match.'. Our reviewer gave it four stars and said "we’re all winners for watching this work". And fresh from a run in Sydney, 'Art' is showing at the Comedy Theatre, starring a trio of legendary Aussie actors: Richard Roxburgh, Damon Herriman and Toby Schmitz. From the toe-tapping to the cathartic, consider this your ultimate guide to all the best Melbourne theatre shows happening this month. When stuck for things to do between shows, you can also always rely on our catch-all lists of Melbourne's best bars, restaurants, museums, parks and galleries, or consult our bucket list of the best things to do in Melbourne before you die.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Want something else to do this month? Check out our guide to the city's best exhibitions.

A cuisine that lends itself to long, leisurely meals shared with others, Italian usually doesn't stop at just one course. So, do as the Romans do: start with an aperitivo – and an antipasto spread – before a primo course (cue the pasta), secondo (a meat dish), contorno (a side, or three) and of course, something dolce (sweet). The Time Out team have spent years scouring the city for Melbourne's best Italian food, from hot-out-the-oven newcomers to traditional institutions that consistently deliver. So if you're looking for an Italian feast that'll knock your socks off, look no further – we've rounded up Melbourne's best Italian restaurants for you to try in 2025. Buon appetito! Editor's favourite Italian restaurants in Melbourne: 🥂 Best for a special occasion: Di Stasio Citta 👠 Best for a hot date night: Studio Amaro 🍴 Best for a long Sunday lunch: Lagotto 🍝 Best for regional Italian cuisine: Trattoria Emilia 👯 Best for a friends' catch-up: Pepe's Parlour If you're after more Italian cuisine, visit our guides to Melbourne's best pizza and gelato.

Melburnians are almost as passionate about their cocktails as they are about their coffee. What's the proper way to make a Martini? Gin or Vodka Gimlet? And should a cocky ever be on tap? Though if there's anything we love more than these heated debates about drinks, it's putting an end to all that nonsense and simply enjoying them – whether alone, with friends or sitting opposite a lovely date. Wondering where to try next? We've sipped our way around this great city to find the bars with the best atmosphere, the most creative (or at least, the most welcoming) bartenders and of course, the finest drinks. Go forth, dear readers – you may just discover your new signature tipple.  If you're keen on exploring the world of vino instead, head to Melbourne's best wine bars. 

From historic boozers to gastropubs and rocking live music venues, we believe that Melbourne boasts some of the finest pub culture in the world outside the British Isles, and we’ll gladly pass out on that hill. Our pub traditions are diverse and many – the weeknight chicken parma special, boisterous trivia nights, open mic gigs, friendly (read: competitive) pool games and that ever-wholesome Sunday roast. But every local has its own unique set of drawcards and that's what makes this scene so fun and diverse. Looking for somewhere you can bring your doggo? We know the pubs that'll greet your pooch with a smile. Want a pub where you can drink outside and soak up the rays? Our beer gardens are some of Melbourne's loveliest drinking playgrounds. And if you're looking for a pint with a side of history, we've got the intel on this town's oldest pubs. So without further ado, you know what to do: bookmark this guide and make your way through our recs with the same level of enthusiasm you'd scull your way through the taps.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Looking for more inspo? Take your drinking to new heights at the best rooftop bars.

Autumn. It's a season of crisp mornings, statement scarves and (perhaps most significantly) really quite gorgeous red, gold and orange leafy displays. While Victoria is beautiful all year round (yes, even in the coldest depths of winter!), there's no denying autumn is one of the most spectacular seasons – especially when the deciduous leaves change colour to warm, crackly hues before dropping to the ground. If you're keen to make the most of this fleeting season, here are the best towns, parks and gardens in Victoria to see the leaves at their most vibrant. Rug up, pack a picnic and make sure your phone is charged –you won't want to miss capturing this fiery spectacle. Want more outdoor adventures? Here are the best day hikes from Melbourne and coolest waterfalls in Victoria.

Hotel Railway in Brunswick has lived many lives, and now this much-loved watering hole has entered a brand new era. It was recently taken over by the Riverland Group, which has given it a slick refresh and injected new life into the historic venue. But the heart of what makes this iconic pub remains: quality pub grub, beers on tap, footy on the big screens and a welcoming atmosphere. The menu features all the pub classics, with some Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours sprinkled in. We're talking parmas, burgers and steaks (obvs), plus yummy, flavour-packed dishes like sumac-roasted heirloom carrots, kingfish ceviche and popcorn fried chicken. You can grab a Sunday roast with Yorkshire pud and all the trimmings for $30, and a double serving of steak and chips for just $39 on Saturdays. Yum! Trivia takes place on Tuesday nights at 7pm, the beer garden is the place to be on sunny arvos and happy hour runs from 4-7pm on Tuesday to Friday – that's when you can score selected pints, wines, spirits and Spritzes for $10. And there are DJs spinning tunes on Friday and Saturday nights. Whether you're a Brunswick local or simply keen to soak up the community spirit at Hotel Railway, everyone's welcome in for a froff. Head to the website for more info. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Still hungry? These are the best restaurants in Melbourne right now.

Fresh outta the oven and served up hot to an adoring audience at Her Majesty’s Theatre (complete with the mouth-watering aroma of a fresh-baked pie wafting through the air), Waitress the Musical arrives in Melbourne as a sugary slice of wholesome musical theatre – but will you want to go back for a second helping?  Adapted from the 2007 cult indie flick by Adrienne Shelly, Waitress made its New York debut in 2016 with a female-led creative team (a first in the history of Broadway). That line-up included direction by Diane Paulus, a book by Jessie Nelson, choreography by Lorin Latarro and songs by Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles (whose knack for writing catchy, melodic pop hits are on full display here). Sprinkle in a tale of female friendship, dreaming big and finding courage – with some sugar, butter and flour, of course – and it’s no surprise Waitress ran for four successful years, with a stint on London’s West End, too. What is Waitress the Musical about? Set in the American South, Waitress follows the story of Jenna (Natalie Bassingthwaighte), a small-town waitress and baker who works at Joe’s Pie Diner, alongside her friends Becky (Gabriyel Thomas) and Dawn (Mackenzie Dunn). She’s unhappily married to the ghastly Earl (a truly brutish man played with a villainous sneer by Keanu Gonzalez), but upon discovering she’s pregnant, ends up in an (increasingly awkward) affair with her obstetrician, Dr Pomatter (Rob Mills). Mix in a looming pie-making contes

When a pub's been around for 172 years, you know it's doing something right. First opened in 1854, the Lincoln – located on the corner of Queensberry and Cardigan Streets – is one of Carlton's (and Melbourne's) most beloved spots for a pint, parma and all-round good time. While it's had a couple of tune-ups over the years, that old-world charm and iconic facade remains. The green-walled, Art Deco bar is a prime spot for punters to work their way through the 12 taps of rotating craft beers (which change frequently, so there's always something new to try), and the refurbished dining room is the perfect setting for a special meal – whether that's a birthday, anniversary, work do or group catch-up. The menu is loaded with all the classic pub grub – think fish and chips with mushy peas, steaks, pies and a chicken schnitty, of course. But it's the Sunday roast we love best. Available from 12pm every Sunday, it rotates between free-range pork and grass-fed lamb and beef, with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and seasonal veggies on the side. And all for just $35 – bargain, right?!  Charming, characterful and welcoming to all (with plenty of ice-cold bevvies to boot) – just how we like our pubs. To find out more and make a booking at the Lincoln, head to the website. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Still thirsty? These are the best pubs in Melbourne right now.  

Score vintage treasures, designer items, crafted goods and op shop finds at the Round She Goes vintage market at Coburg Town Hall. The market features more than 60 stallholders selling handpicked and vintage clothing (1940s onwards), jewellery and accessories for cheap.  Stallholders are carefully handpicked by the Round She Goes team so that quality is ensured, sizing is diverse and the prices remain reasonable. In the past, shoppers have been able to snap up preloved designer goods from the likes of Zimmerman, Miu Miu, Versace, Scanlan Theodore, Marc Jacobs, Romance Was Born and so many more.   The market is held several times annually, with the next market taking place on May 3 from 10am to 3pm. Entry is $4, payable by cash or card, and there's plenty of free parking. Go early to fetch a good bargain and don't worry, there's coffee and baked goods inside to keep you going. Find out more here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Keen to snag more clothing? Here are Melbourne's best fashion markets. 

It’s time to dig out your puffer jacket and make the drive to Ballarat, because Sovereign Hill is hosting an illuminated extravaganza this chilly season. That’s right, the annual Winter Wonderlights program is back for another year and this edition promises to bring a bumper schedule of nighttime activities. From June 26 to July 19, the beloved Gold Rush museum will once again transform into a whimsical winter wonderland, with dazzling new light installations, Christmas carols, warming fires, cosy food and drink options, family-friendly activities, live music and more. Highlights are set to include St Nicholas’ winter hut, where you can snap a keepsake photo with the man in red himself; live comedy shows and pantomimes at the Victoria Theatre; a pop-up arts and craft studio; dustings of faux snow along Main Street; and the chance to experience the Goldfields by firelight.  Tickets are $77 for a day pass (10am-7pm) or you can opt for a short timeslot on weekends with an evening ticket (5pm-7pm) available on Saturdays and a night ticket (8pm-10pm) available on Friday and Saturdays for both $45. Snag yours here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Want more fun? These are the best things happening in Melbourne this weekend.

Been wanting to try hugely popular Melbourne restaurant Zareh, but haven’t been able to get a reservation? Now you have an exclusive, one-night opportunity to get in. To mark Time Out’s Food Month (and our Food & Drink Awards), we’re hosting a Time Out Social Club dinner at this special Award nominee restaurant. Come find out why it’s one of our Food & Drink Award nominees for 2026 – and why it’s often booked out. For one night only, Zareh will be serving a set menu, designed as a greatest-hits tour of their offering.  When Tuesday, May 12Times 6:30pmWhere Zareh, 368 Smith St, CollingwoodCost $120Book hereMenu: - 'Salma Hayek' cocktail: Arak, Gaza Cola and Fresh Lime- Haigo’s Olives- Torshi Bandari- Kafta Nayyeh, Radishes, Fried pita- Batata Harra- Chicken Kebab, Toum, Pickled Green Chilli - Hummus, King Prawns, Spanner Crab- Aish Baladi - Khorovats  | lamb cutlets, harissa, jajik- Ghapama | wood-fired pumpkin, rice, sour fruits, walnuts- Wood Baked Atayef | filled with akawi cheese & apricots with cardamom & orange blossom water Secure a table by clicking here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for more fun stuff to land in your inbox.

If you’re a foodie in Victoria (or, really, anywhere in Australia), chances are Wickens is on your must-dine bucket list. It was definitely on mine, and after a few prior fleeting visits to Dunkeld (a three-hour drive west of Melbourne) I was stoked to finally be locked in to experience the culinary magic of this regional restaurant for myself. As part of the acclaimed Royal Mail Hotel, Wickens was officially established in late 2017 by executive chef Robin Wickens, who had been working at the Royal Mail Dining Room since 2013. Since then, it has gone from strength to strength – building out one of the country’s most impressive wine collections; growing a bountiful kitchen garden that now supplies up to 80 per cent of the produce showcased in the menu; picking up two hats (along with multiple other awards); and driving up visitation to the small Southern Grampians community. The vibe  Name a more picturesque spot for a regional restaurant, we’ll wait. Located at the southern tip of the Grampians National Park, in the shadow of the majestic Mount Sturgeon, Wickens is an intimate dining room ensconced in nature – native plants line the boardwalk entrance, and towering trees dominate the panoramic vista that’s framed by floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s a beautiful sight to behold upon being seated; my only qualm with the 7.30pm booking is that once golden hour surrendered to darkness, so did our ability to continue admiring the views (book in for lunch if that’s important to you).

Calling all bookworms, literature lovers and BookTok obsessives: the Melbourne Writers Festival (MWF) line-up has just been unveiled. This year's program reads like a list of the crème de la crème of the 2026 literary world, featuring New York Times best-selling authors, Booker Prize standouts, first-timers and MWF exclusives, with a stellar cast coming together to celebrate the iconic festival's 40th anniversary.  The festival will spread big bookish energy across the city and surrounds via four days of workshops, talks, events and panels, running from May 7-10. This time around, the central theme of the program is 'Visions and Revisions' – which will explore the ideas that matter, futures we imagine, the strange stories we all carry, and the particular revisions, both personal and collective, that work to define us. International highlights include former NZ prime minister and all-round fan favourite, Jacinda Ardern, international bestseller R.F Kuang (Yellowface and Babel), recent Booker prize winner David Szalay (Flesh) and acclaimed Booker winner Yann Martel, whose known worldwide for his beloved book, The Life of Pi.  On the local front, expect to see journalist and human rights advocate Antoniette Latouff present 'Women Who Win', alongside activist and former Australian of the Year, Grace Tame. We'll also see Stephanie Alexander (aka the queen of Australian homestyle cooking) in conversation with beloved author and philanthropist Alice Zaslavsky, in a Mother's Day conv

Wednesday nights in Melbourne are known for one thing and one thing only: Queen Victoria Market’s legendary Night Market. With the summer iteration officially finished for the season, Queen Vic has announced it will be bringing back its insanely popular Asian night market to tide you over until the winter version takes over during the chilly season. The Hawker 88 Night Market brings Asian tastes, sights and sounds to Queen Vic’s sheds. Running every Wednesday night from April 8 until May 6, a tasty variety of stalls and trucks will be set up to sell authentic street food direct from China, Vietnam, Korea, India, Malaysia, Japan and beyond.  There's a line-up of more than 25 vendors selling tasty street eats like chicken and beef satay, handmade gyoza, spicy laksa bowls, pad see ew, moreish popcorn fried chicken, crispy wonton tacos, matchamisu and even durian (if you dare!). Quench your thirst at The Lucky Horse Bar with an Iced Watermelon Shochu or a non-alcoholic Lychee Lemonade. Across the five-week stint there will also be lion dances, KPop Demon Hunters performances, martial arts demonstrations, taiko drumming, Squid Game-inspired challenges, Bollywood dance workshops and a closing-night cosplay parade. There's even a Korean-style photobooth, vintage Japanese kimonos and souvenirs like custom keychains, bags and 3D printed toys to browse and buy.  Each Wednesday brings a distinct cultural focus. April 8 is Pan-Asian Night with lion dances; April 15 showcases the flavour

Melbourne's favourite illuminated event is back again in 2026, with 15 new and returning dazzling light installations to meander through in wonderment. From June 12 to August 2, take a nighttime stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens and experience luminous pathways, lit-up tree canopies, soothing soundscapes and more sparkly sights. This year, highlights of the 2.1-kilometre trail are set to be the Australian premier of Bifröst by French studio Pitaya, which boasts a 20-arch tunnel of flowing light that you can walk through; and Firefly Field by Dutch studio TOER, where 200 glowing points of light will dart like fairies above the grass. Returning faves include a reimagined 30-metre Winter Cathedral, plus the epic Fire Garden installation, which will include a circular spiral of 150 candles. Plus, there's plenty more to discover by more local and international artists alike.  Most importantly, you'll also be able to grab a bite to eat and warming drinks, like hot chocolate and mulled wine, at the Welcome Zone or dotted along the trail. If you ask us, Melbourne is at its best in winter and events like Lightscape (which now holds two consecutive Gold wins at the Victorian Tourism Awards), where you can rug up and join friends for a magical experience, are a big reason why. Adult tickets start at $36 and are available through Ticketek – be quick as they tend to go fast.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight t

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here. The fertile coastal landscape of the Mornington Peninsula has long been a breeding ground for excellent dining spots, both fancy and casual (hello, Tedesca Osteria, Many Little and Red Gum BBQ – to name a few). And now, we can add a newish name to that list: Barragunda Dining. Located on 400 hectares of farmland and sprawling native bush that forms Barragunda Estate, the property is owned by the Morris family, who, via their foundation, direct all profits made from the restaurant back into work that supports improvements and innovations in Australia’s food systems.  And really, that’s what the ethos is all about at Barragunda: focusing on sustainable agricultural practices that encourage regeneration, while creating a hyper-local culinary experience that feels rooted in place. When all these elements come together, it makes for one inspiring and unforgettable meal. The vibe Courtesy of David Dubois Architecture, Barragunda’s former farm shed has been transformed into a warm 40-seat restaurant that feels especially welcoming on an unseasonably grey and drizzly day in March. A large timber bar and shelves lined with jars of pickled veg and fermented fruit welcome guests, before the open kitchen and light-filled dining room unfurl as you walk further into the cat

The Makers and Shakers Market is back in 2026 to celebrate its 10th birthday. Showcasing a host of established and emerging designers at Carlton's Royal Exhibition Building, it's taking place April 18 and 19. So, bring your bags and nana trolleys, because this is a great opportunity to stock up on one-of-a-kind presents while also supporting local artists and creatives.  The curated event will feature more than 185 stalls run by independent Melbourne makers selling homewares, food and drink, art, accessories, ethical fashion, beauty products and more. It's also the only local makers market where the stallholders sell 100 per cent Australian-made products. There will also be a kids' zone with activities and a free Mother’s Day craft area, onsite bars and food stalls with interesting sips and dips, plus crafty workshops to get those creative juices flowing. Adult tickets are $6 and kids under 12 enter for free. You can pre-purchase tickets via the website.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Want more? These are the best things to do in Melbourne this week. 

In what's sure to be music to the ears of the avid outdoor lovers among us, a historic bridge on a popular walking and biking trail in regional Victoria has finally been repaired and restored to its former glory. Dee Slip Bridge, which makes up part of the O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail near Warburton, has now reopened to the public after falling into disrepair.  Located in the Yarra Ranges National Park, the timber bridge was originally used to access the O’Shannassy Aqueduct and the 30 kilometre trail that runs alongside it. It was constructed back in 1947 when the aqueduct collapsed, and was used by cyclists and walkers alike to get to the popular mountainside track that runs from East Warburton to the Don Valley.  But in 2021, the bridge was badly damaged when a big pine tree fell onto it, and it had to be closed off to the public, with a temporary bypass created instead.     Photograph: Parks VictoriaDee Slip Bridge In September last year, the Victorian Government announced plans to restore the heritage bridge, with works commencing in Novermber to preserve the structure. While some of the original piles had to be removed due to rotting, much of the original timber remains, with modern steel supports added to ensure long-term durability. This strengthening of the bridge’s deck also means it can support fire-fighting vehicles up to six tonnes in weight. Dee Slip Bridge is a vital piece of the region's history, and the only timber trestle bridge on the system. It also suppor

Missed out on Harry Styles tickets when they went on sale earlier this year? You're about to be thrown one final lifeline. The pop star – who kicked off his Together, Together tour in Amsterdam over the weekend – has just announced a fourth and final show for Melbourne. Yep, Styles will hit Marvel Stadium one extra time on Friday, December 4 – and we could not be more excited. It's been three years since Harry Styles last performed in Australia as part of his Love On Tour, and since that wrapped up all sightings of the international megastar have been few and far between – aside from popping up to run the odd marathon or being papped with Zoë Kravitz (who he recently got engaged too *sob*). He released his fourth studio album, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally, on March 6, and has now officially kicked off his massive seven-city global residency, finally giving us our first glimpse of what the shows will look like. And let's just say that marathon training has come in handy – the stage is huge. So, alert the group chat and get your game plan in action – these tickets are gonna go quick. Here's everything we know about Harry Styles' Melbourne shows so far.  Photograph: Anthony Pham When is Harry Styles in Melbourne?  The music gods have blessed Melbourne with not one, not two but four shows as part of Styles' Together, Together tour. He will kick off the Australian leg with performances on Friday, November 27, Saturday, November 28 and Wednesday, December 2 at Marvel St

Ignore what anyone tells you about places like Sydney or Adelaide chasing the crown of Australia's cultural capital – that title belongs firmly to Melbourne, especially after it was just named Time Out’s 6th best city in the world for art and culture in 2026! It’s been a big year for us Melburnians, with our city recently crowned the greatest on Earth in Time Out’s highly anticipated annual ranking. Beyond the overall title, we also set out to find today’s true cultural hotspots, where world-class art, theatre, music and festivals are both accessible and affordable to locals and visitors. To create this year’s list, Time Out surveyed 24,000 locals across more than 150 cities, asking them to rate the quality and affordability of their hometown’s culture scene, and to tell us exactly what their city does best – from comedy and carnivals to live music and literature. We then combined their responses with local insights from Time Out’s editors and contributors to identify the most exciting places to go for culture and the arts right now.  Photograph: Visit Victoria To ensure the list reflects the best cities for culture globally, Time Out only features the highest-scoring city from each country. While Sydney proudly secured that spot in 2025 – ranking fifth on the global index – the tide has turned. In 2026, Melbourne has rightfully reclaimed the spotlight, proving exactly why it’s Australia’s cultural capital. We landed sixth on the worldwide ranking for culture, only behind h

It's been almost 18 months since Melbourne welcomed a new Chris Lucas restaurant (hello, Maison Bâtard), but that countdown clock will reset in October with the arrival of Wishbone – an all-day Hong Kong-inspired eatery located in the city's Midtown precinct. Channelling the vibrant energy of Hong Kong's small restaurants and food stalls, the kitchen will be helmed by Dan Chan (Hong Kong's Yardbird), who has been leading the charge over at another Lucas Collective venue, Tombo Den. The menu – created in partnership between Lucas and Chan – will showcase the incredibly diverse and fun flavours of Hong Kong street food through a modern Aussie lens. Think a playful execution of classic dishes like dumplings and prawn toast, that draw on Chan's upbringing and his deep personal connection to the city. “The development of the menu is very close to my heart and draws on my time in Hong Kong, as well as broader travel.” says Chan. “The food scene in Hong Kong has always been a brilliant, chaotic mix of influences – a bit eccentric, and a lot of fun. That’s what I want people to feel when they eat at Wishbone.” The venue has been designed by Chris and Sarah Lucas in collaboration with DKO Architecture, and it's set to become one of the city's most eye-catching new additions. Red perspex stairs will be visible from the entrance on McKillop Street via gorgeous curved windows, with the lush red colour palette extending inside via retro furnishings and moody lights.  “Wishbone is going t

Update Sunday, April 19: With petrol prices remaining high and the cost of living continuing to put pressure on local households, the Victorian Government has made the decision to extend the free public transport initiative until the end of May. And from June 1, half-price fares will kick in for the rest of the year – with the full daily fare costing $5.70, not $11.40. Under half-price fares, reimbursements will be available for people with Mykis, while under 18s and those with special pass holders can continue to travel for free. It means that from June 1, the Myki tap-and-go trial can also resume. It's expected this will cost the average daily commuter more than $850 between June and the end of 2026. It will also ease demand at the petrol pump and take cars off the road.  *** Feeling the pinch at the bowser? You're certainly not alone. With petrol prices skyrocketing across the country (and in some areas, drying up entirely), taking public transport has never looked more appealing. In an effort to ease the pressure at the pump, the Victorian Government has just announced that all public transport will be free across Victoria for a month, starting on Tuesday, March 31. That's right – until Thursday, April 30, all commuters will be able to travel across Victoria's trains (both metro and V/Line), trams and buses every single day without having to tap on their Myki. Instead, all Myki gates will be open to allow for easy and streamlined access to stations and platforms.  Don't w

The Australian Open. The Formula One Grand Prix. The AFL Grand Final. The Boxing Day Test. Melbourne has long been known as Australia’s sporting capital, but in case you needed further proof, here it is: this year, the city will play host to Australia’s first-ever regular season NFL game, as part of a massive multi-year deal. It also makes Melbourne the first city in the world to host an international tennis Grand Slam, a Formula One Grand Prix and an NFL Regular Season game. Further proof this really is the best city in the world. The match will feature the Los Angeles Rams as the ‘home’ team, with the San Francisco 49ers confirmed as the opposition. The game will be played at the MCG – aka the sporting heartland of Melbourne – with kick-off at 10.35am on September 11, 2026.  “It’s a win for jobs, a win for businesses and a win for fans who will get to see American Football played in the best stadium in the world,” said premier Jacinta Allan.  Supplied: Office of the premier of Victoria NFL, also known as American Football, is the USA’s most popular sport. That means footage of Melbourne as the host city will be beamed live to the almost 20 million Americans who tune into each game (not to mention the millions more who watch from across the globe). The 49ers are one of the NFL’s most illustrious franchises, having won the Super Bowl five times. Best of all, they share an intense rivalry with the Rams, which is sure to make the Melbourne match-up a hugely important – and

Update Monday, March 23: The latest alert from the Australian Space Weather Forecasting Centre (ASWFC) today confirms a geomagnetic storm is still in progress. According to the alert, the "Aurora may be observed during local nighttime hours in good observing conditions at high altitudes." The best chance to spot the lights is 60 to 75 minutes after sunset, with likely spotting in Tasmania and Victoria, plus parts of South Australia, Western Australia, the ACT and NSW, if skies are clear. On the weekend, Lady Aurora put on a dazzling show, with the Southern Lights spotted everywhere from Horsham and Wodonga in Victoria to the Tasman Peninsula, Kangaroo Island and the NSW Southern Highlands.Here’s everything you need to know about seeing the Southern Lights from Victoria. Where in the world can you see the Aurora? Bright, beautiful and bedazzling, the Aurora Borealis is a big-ticket bucket list item for pretty much everyone on Earth. Only those who have witnessed the Northern Lights with their naked eyes can truly understand its ethereal magic. But you don’t need to fork out on a ticket to Scandinavia to see the dramatic natural light display IRL. Australia has its very own version, called the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights – and last year was one of the brightest display in 20 years. Here’s everything you need to know about seeing the Aurora Australis in Australia. Will the Aurora Australis be visible tonight from Victoria? Australia’s first big Aurora Australis of the se

Big news! Time Out's 2026 ranking of the best cities in the world has just dropped, and Melbourne – yes, our Melbourne – has jumped three places (from fourth in 2025) to take out the number one spot. Cue the applause, fireworks and confetti, stat!  It's the first time ever that an Australian city has topped the annual list, with Melbourne previously peaking in second spot a decade ago in 2016. And our humble little metropolis outshone some heavyweights on the way to the top this year, beating out global powerhouses Shanghai, Edinburgh, London and New York, which rounded out the top five.  Even better, it's a celebration all round for Australia, with Sydney ranking 21st and Adelaide coming in at number 29. And while we can't promise we won't gloat about this for the next year (sorry, Sydney!), it's still an poignant reminder that Australia really is an exceptional places to live, visit and explore. Photograph: Supplied | Visit Victoria So, how was this ranking compiled? Time Out surveyed more than 24,000 locals in 42 languages about where they live. These questions covered topics that included everything from food, nightlife and culture to affordability, happiness and the overall city vibe. A panel of more than 100 Time Out city experts from around the world were also asked to name the most exciting cities in the world right now. All data from 44 different criteria was combined to create the ranking. Melbourne scored a strong overall ‘city rating’ as well as high ‘happiness

There's nothing we love more than planning a holiday. But do you ever stop to think about the reasons why you travel? Of course, there's the usual: gain new life experiences, learn about different cultures, create lasting memories with loved ones. But there's also the big bucket list moments – like major sporting events – that drive a desire to see the world. Because let's be real, who hasn't dreamed of one day attending Wimbledon, the Super Bowl, or even the Olympics?  Yep, when you start to think about it, sports really do seem to be emerging as a major player in tourism world. And Melbourne – home to the Australian Open, AFL Grand Final, Boxing Day Test, the F1 Australian Grand Prix and an upcoming regular-season NFL game – is undoubtedly at the centre of it. A recent survey by Hilton conducted across China, India, Australia, Singapore and Japan confirms this, revealing that 40 per cent of respondents were likely to plan international trips around major sporting events. And more than half (60 per cent) have already travelled domestically or internationally for a sporting event.   People aren't attending these sporting spectacles alone, either. The rise in sports tourism stems from a drive to be social and connect – 47 per cent of of respondents travel with friends, while 55 per cent travel with partners. This aligns with one of the aforementioned fundamental reasons we travel: to create special shared memories.  And while having an interest in the sport itself (like Formu

It's been almost three years since Ed Sheeran serenaded crowds of 110,000 and 108,000 people over two epic nights at the MCG in March 2023, and now he's back in Melbourne and ready to rock Marvel Stadium.  As one of the best-selling music artists of all time (not to mention everyone's favourite wedding first dance artist), Sheeran has already performed in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney as part of his Loop Tour – and from what we've heard, he does not disappoint. Expect to hear hits such as ‘Castle on the Hill’, ‘Thinking Out Loud’ and ‘Perfect’, as well as songs off his brand new album Play. Excited? You bet we are. If you're heading to see Ed Sheeran in Melbourne, here’s everything you need to know... When is Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour in Melbourne? Sheeran is taking over Marvel Stadium for three massive shows on Thursday, February 26; Friday, February 27; and Saturday, February 28. How to get to Ed Sheeran's Melbourne concerts Marvel Stadium is right next door to Southern Cross Station, so public transport is by far the best option to get to the concert. Simply walk over the convenient footbridge to get from the platforms to the stadium entrance. For info on how to plan your public transport journey, head over here.  What time will Ed Sheeran come on stage? Gates open at 4pm, and Sheeran is expected to begin by around 8pm. The support acts will kick off around 5.15pm (more on that below). What can I bring to Ed Sheeran's Melbourne shows? There are specific rules for what you can an

Just when you thought a stay at Jackalope couldn’t get any more enticing, the stunning luxury hotel in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula’s wine region has announced the return of its pop-up outdoor cinema that will screen blockbuster flicks, cult classics and romcoms all through March. Created in collaboration with Lexus Australia, season two of Jackalope Cinema will open on Sunday, March 1, with a viewing of the Leonardo DiCaprio and Margot Robbie smash-hit, The Wolf of Wall Street. Other excellent movies on the month-long line-up include La La Land, Silver Linings Playbook, Black Swan, Lost in Translation and The French Dispatch.  Photograph: Griffin Simm This fully immersive experience a film buff’s dream, and will begin with the opportunity to enjoy a pre-movie bite at Doot Doot Doot (Jackalope’s renowned on-site restaurant) – think a menu loaded with delicious dishes showcasing the region’s local produce. Guests can then either head to their room to catch the flick from their vineyard-facing private terrace or get cosy on the infinity pool deck under the twinkling night sky. Bluetooth headphones will be provided to ensure top sound quality, and there will be plenty of snacks on offer, including unlimited popcorn (yes, really!), ice cream and other nostalgic treats. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Melbourne (@timeoutmelbourne)   “Having studied film before pivoting to designing spaces and experiences, the pillar of storytelling

Hey now, hey now! If you're a millennial of a certain age, these words are guaranteed to awaken something deep inside. They are, of course, the opening lyrics of Hilary Duff's (aka Lizzie McGuire) seminal 2003 track 'What Dreams Are Made Of' – which is widely considered one of the best songs of all time (according to me, that is). And now, we have news that is certainly what dreams are made of: Hilary Duff is officially coming to Melbourne. Duff has recently been on the comeback trail, having dropped hot new singles 'Mature' and 'Roommates' ahead of the release of her album luck… or something. After a string of intimate shows in London, Toronto, New York and Los Angeles as part of her Small Rooms, Big Nerves Tour – her first live performances in a decade – she's just announced a huge global tour. The Lucky Me Tour will hit Australia in October *squeals!* and it's for everyone who never thought they would get to see hits like 'Come Clean', 'So Yesterday' and 'Wake Up' live in person. Without further ado, here's everything we know about Hilary Duff's Melbourne shows. When is Hilary Duff in Melbourne?  Duff will perform at Rod Laver Arena on Monday, October 26 AND Tuesday, October 27, 2026. Lucky us! When do Hilary Duff Melbourne tickets go on sale? General ticket sales for Duff's Melbourne show will begin at 1pm on Friday, February 20. You can find out more via Live Nation. When is the Hilary Duff Melbourne presale? If you pre-order Duff's new album from the official Warner Mus