Leah Glynn

Whether you're a first-time visitor to Melbourne or have lived here all your life, there are some absolute must-do bucket list items that just can't be missed. And yes, we may be slightly biased in saying that Melbourne is the greatest place on Earth – but we have the stats to back us up, because the city was crowned the best in the world in March 2026. Melbourne's food, drink, coffee, art, theatre and sport culture are among the best in the world, and we reckon you should try to experience every single one of them at least once before you die. So here is our ultimate bucket list: 71 amazing things to do in Melbourne right now, plus attractions, great restaurants, bars, fun festivals and everything in between. Enjoy, and thank us later. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Browse our guides to Melbourne's best restaurants and best bars. Need somewhere to stay? Check out Melbourne's best hotels.

Planning a trip Down Under? You've come to the right place. For almost six decades, Time Out has been inspiring people to get off the couch and discover the world's best experiences – and Australia is packed with them. Sure, you know the land Down Under for its pristine beaches and laid-back culture, but there's so much more to do beyond kissing koalas and yelling ‘g’day mate’. To help you plan the ultimate trip, our team (including Australian Editor Melissa Woodley) have curated the ultimate Aussie bucket list. It covers must-see attractions, experiences, events and landmarks across the country, tried and tested by our team. So, whether you’re chasing art and nightlife in the city, spotting native wildlife on secluded beaches or hiking in remote national parks, here's your guide to the best things to do in Australia. Editor's favourite things to do in Australia: ⭐️ Best city landmark: BridgeClimb, NSW 🖼️ Best for culture: MONA, TAS 🍷 Best food + drink: Adelaide Central Market, SA 🌊 Best outdoor adventure: Whitehaven Beach, QLD 🐿️ Best wildlife encounter: Rottnest Island, WA Jump to list: Landmarks | Outdoor Adventures | Culture | Food & Drink | Wildlife 🇦🇺 The best tourist attractions in Australia🌊 The best beaches in Australia

There’s never been a quiet year for theatre in Australia. From the bright lights of Broadway and the West End to our very own stages, Australia is lucky to host some of the world’s most spectacular musicals. We’re also a hotbed for homegrown gems, with fresh and experimental shows lighting up stages across the country every month.  From the grand return of the world’s #1 musical, The Lion King, to the Aussie premieres of A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical and Fiddler on the Roof, this year’s theatre line-up is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. Here are all the biggest and best shows to see in Australia, listed in order of what's currently showing/hitting the stage next. 👀 The best art exhibitions in Australia🎉 The most exciting events of 2026

Off the back of the footy finals and long weekend in Melbourne, we're feeling refreshed, revved up and ready to go, especially since daylight savings is blessing us with later sunsets this Sunday! Warmer weather, later nights and rooftop sunset tipples are in sight. There are plenty of festivals, shows and exhibitions, for those looking to get off the couch and make the most of their weekend, even though it isn't an extended one. If you want to bust out of the city, here are the best places near Melbourne to see gorgeous spring blooms – think roses, tulips and wildflowers. We suggest you catch the last of the CherryHill Blossom Festival for a taste of Japan in Melbourne. It's looking like it'll be a bit of a rainy one, so if you'd rather keep dry, NGV Friday Nights has its last session for the Cartier exhibition. Otherwise, we suggest attending the best-selling ballet, Dracula: Ballet at its Darkest. Want to get a little weird? Melbourne's Fringe Festival officially kicked off this week, and brings a wave of quirky, audacious and boundary-pushing performances to Melbourne's arts and culture scene. 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 stop on Monday! These are the best thing

Did you have a good long weekend? Already looking forward to the next one? Well the weather is fine (for now, anyway), so we reckon it's a good time to head up – to one of Melbourne's many spectacular rooftop bars. Here's our guide to Melbourne's very best rooftop bars.  Otherwise, head to the Yarra for a drink at Afloat – they're going Greek this season. It's spring, which means blossoms are blossoming – these are the best places to see springtime blooms in Victoria. Prefer indoor fun? Step inside one at ACMI, where acclaimed Chinese artist Feng Mengbo transforms modern Chinese history into a surreal, interactive adventure via Long March Restart. If you're a theatre and musical buff, make sure you check out A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, which spans the legendary singer-songwriter's career. With stellar performances, slick production elements and that extensive setlist of hits, it's a certified crowd-pleaser. 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.

Whether you have niggling muscle pain or you're simply keen on a bit of pampering, a massage session is sure to do the trick. There are heaps of styles to choose from, ranging from traditional Japanese shiatsu treatments designed to relieve blockages of energy in your body, to hot stone massages that alleviate soreness and induce relaxation. Some spots even offer remedial massage for treating injuries, and massages for expectant mothers to help reduce the pains in their back, stomach and abdomen from carrying a baby.  We've rounded up our top picks for dreamy Melbourne massages below. Relaxation, guaranteed. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Want a relaxing soak? These are Melbourne's best hot springs.

Feeling like you need a little extra glow in your life? Or just need to take some time out from your jam-packed schedule? Tick both boxes with these luxurious skin treatments delivered by the city's best practitioners.  We've rounded up some of the most highly regarded facials in Melbourne that also appeal to a broad range of skin types, from dry skin and fine lines to acne and stressed skin. Whether you prefer a science-based approach, or something a little more holistic, there's a treatment for everyone here.  Get ready to hydrate, exfoliate and massage your way to complete rejuvenation.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. After more self-care? Here are Melbourne's best spas and bath houses. Love a soak? Check out the best hot springs in Victoria.

Are you overdue for a bit of self-care? Give your muscles the gift of a deep tissue massage or refresh your complexion with a soothing facial at these retreats around Melbourne. From luxury day spas and bathhouses to cosmetic clinics and wellness centres, there's a range of treatment options for you to choose from that will leave you feeling soft, warm and radiant.  Editor's favourite day spas in Melbourne: 🛀 Best for a soak: Sense of Self 💆‍♀️ Best for a massage: Comma 🧖 Best for a facial: Kai Urban Retreat or Hüd Northcote 🧘‍♀️ Best for a luxury experience: Crown Spa Melbourne 👯 Best for a social wellness sesh: Soak Bathhouse Leah Glynn is a self-confessed self-care specialist. If there's a massage to be enjoyed or a bath to soak in, chances are she's experienced it. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Need some more pampering? Hit the road and discover the best hot springs in Victoria.

This list is from 2024. Read our 2025 ranking or check out our latest ranking for 2026 here. In 2024, what exactly makes a neighbourhood cool? Craft breweries, natty wine bars and street art are well and good, but the world’s best, most exciting and downright fun neighbourhoods are much more than identikit ‘hipster hubs’. They’re places that reflect the very best of their cities – its culture, community spirit, nightlife, food and drink – all condensed in one vibey, walkable district. To create our annual ranking, we went straight to the experts – our global team of on-the-ground writers and editors – and asked them what the coolest neighbourhood in their city is right now, and why. Then we narrowed down the selection and ranked the list using the insight and expertise of Time Out’s global editors, who vetted each neighbourhood against criteria including food, drink, arts, culture, street life, community and one-of-a-kind local flavour. The result? A list that celebrates the most unique and exciting pockets of our cities – and all their quirks. Yes, you’ll find some of those international hallmarks of ‘cool’. But in every neighbourhood on this list there’s something you won’t find anywhere else. Ever been to a photography museum that moonlights as a jazz club? Or a brewery with a library of Russian literature? How about a festival dedicated to fluff? When communities fiercely support and rally around their local businesses, even the most eccentric ideas can become a reality.

Brunch is a beloved institution across Melbourne. It doesn't require an early wake-up call and is simultaneously on the right side of the day, so you can still have your avo on toast if you need it. But how do you improve on perfection? By adding bottomless drinks, of course. Bottomless brunches have taken our city by storm, and if you've done one, you've no doubt discussed tactics with friends: what to drink, how to pace yourself, the best way to grab the waiter's attention and if it's possible to surreptitiously double park. After all, bottomless brunches are all about getting the best value and a healthy buzz. And not dissimilar to the chicken and egg debate, are drinks or food more crucial when selecting your venue? We believe you can have the best of both. We've compiled a list of Melbourne's best bottomless brunches so that you can enjoy your feast with a great selection of limitless bevs.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Only after a great coffee? Here are our fave spots in the CBD to get a fix. Planning a big day and night? Kick on at the best late-night bars in Melbourne.

Sure, you could hit up a bar on the main strip like an uninformed tourist would. But it's always more of a thrill to uncover one of Melbourne's secret booze lairs instead. Unearth sexy bars down cramped laneways, behind fridge doors, in basements and through antique wardrobes. Consider this list a scavenger hunt of Melbourne's most interesting hidden bars, and remember where they are for next time.  For more bars to hide away in, check out the best rooftop bars. Or if vino is your go-to tipple, check out the best wine bars in Melbourne. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.

Looking to stay in style on your next Australian getaway? You've come to the right place. Our Great Southern Land is packed with exceptional stays, from new boutique hotels with heated infinity pools to revamped classics boasting buzzing rooftop bars and close proximity to our country's best attractions. But with so many options, finding the best hotels in Australia requires a bit of insider knowledge. That's where we come in. Our expert team of travel writers, including Time Out Australia's Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley, have visited every state and territory to bring you this ultimate guide to the best places to stay in Australia. Whether you’re looking for a photogenic city staycation or a coastal resort away from the crowds, these are the top-rated hotels to book in Australia right now. Editors' favourite hotels in Australia: 😍 Best for harbour views: Park Hyatt Sydney, NSW 🌊 Best for urban escape: The Calile Hotel, QLD 🤩 Best for heritage glamour: Capella Sydney, NSW ⭐️ Best hidden gem: COMO The Treasury, WA 🏝️ Best bucket-list stay: InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, QLD JUMP TO:Sydney | Byron Bay | Perth | Melbourne | Gold Coast | Brisbane | Adelaide | Hobart ☀️ The best resorts & lodges in Australia🤩 The best things to do in Australia🌏 The best places to visit in Australia Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do allow us to bring

In a serious case of IYKYK, there's a lively little Italian joint in Melbourne's north-west that has us (and the entire neighbourhood) completely charmed. Located on Woodland Street in Strathmore (about a 20-minute drive from the CBD), Pizzicotto Pizzeria e Cucina has developed a cult-like local following thanks to its warm, welcoming vibes and excellent Italian menu. It opened in 2018 with chef and owner Sergio at the helm. Originally from Trapani in Sicily, Sergio brings a delicious wealth of Italian culinary knowledge to the venue, and lives by the simple yet hearthwarming philosophy: “Food is not just food. Food is the culture. Food is family. Food is a journey.” It's an ethos that resonates right through Pizzicotto. Sergio and the team know many of the returning diners by name, but are just as enthusiastically friendly to new folk who walk through the door. The atmosphere is busy, buzzing and beautifully chaotic – it's not unusual to see the restaurant packed out at 5.30pm on weekends, and the last time I visited on a Saturday night there was a roaming musician singing and playing guitar. As for the food, think of it as a love letter to authentic Italian cuisine. There's a wood-fired oven churning out tasty thin-crust pizzas and calzones, and all the pasta is handmade – while it's impossible to pick just one fave, I can absolutely vouch for the gnocchi ragu and lasagne. Yum! For starters, you can expect to see all the classics: focaccia, arancini and pork and veal polpet

Could this be Melbourne’s best-kept wellness secret? Hidden away in the back streets of leafy Ashburton, Kai Urban Retreat offers a luxurious escape from the everyday busyness of life via a spa menu that guarantees relaxation and rejuvenation. If that sounds like your idea of heaven, read on.  Founded by Clare Kwok, Mika Kinoshita and Martin McGraw, the mission of Kai Urban Retreat is a simple but wholesome one: to create a welcoming, thoughtfully designed and community-focused wellness sanctuary where the nourishment of both mind and body is key. The retreat opened in late 2024, with Kwok drawing on her background as an architect to create a space that exudes peace and tranquility – the lighting is warm and soft, the colour palette features neutral tones with pops of pale peach and terracotta, and the robes are soft and fluffy. The expert team – led by head therapist Mika – brings a wealth of holistic knowledge to their roles, specialising in everything from Japanese shiatsu and remedial massage to tailored skincare and beauty treatments.  I was lucky enough to enjoy a Fire and Frost facial along with a full-body massage – and yes, it was every bit as blissful as I hoped it would be. Using Vanessa Megan skincare products, heat generated from vitamin C is used to stimulate collagen production, while a cooling cryo ice cube serum locks in the nutrients and triggers skin cell regeneration. Essentially, it’s all about brightening and hydrating your complexion so you feel glowy a

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 one taking place on September 13 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 the great Aussie dream, right? To get together with your mates, buy a country pub and turn it into a welcoming watering hole where locals and tourists alike can swing by for a pint and a parma. Well, that's exactly what four pals have done with the revamped Yack Hotel in Yackandandah, which is located an almost four-hour drive from Melbourne on the doorstep of the High Country. The publicans are Dale Kemp (former executive chef at Yolk Group) and his partner Brittany Hart, and fellow hospo legends Jackson Cartwright and Sian Haycock – and together, they've restored it to its former glory while losing none of its old-world charm.  Originally built in 1868 to serve the town’s gold-mining community, the Yack Hotel's four-month transformation saw many of the structural elements remain – like the heritage ceiling plasterwork and brown brick bar – while new additions included a fresh lick of paint and plush tartan carpet. A beautiful horseshoe-shaped bar top was also made from local red gum sourced from a farm just ten minutes up the road to really amp up the pub's rustic character. The menu delivers all the pub classics (parmas, burgers, fish and chips) and some rotating specials, and there's an emphasis on showcasing local ingredients – think steak from Yalandra Pastoral in the nearby Mitta Valley and a sticky toffee pudding spiked with Rutherglen muscat. On the drinks front, regional brewers dominate, with ice-cold froffs from Bright Brewery and Bridge Road Brewers sitting

We're just as sad as you are that cherry blossom season is over, but the good news is that it heralds the start of the cherry-picking season. And if you can't get enough of those sweet and juicy red morsels, then make your way to CherryHill Orchards this summer to pick and eat as many cherries as your heart desires. This year's cherry-picking season will kick off at CherryHill's two Yarra Valley orchards: Coldstream in early November, followed by the OG orchard in Wandin East.  Sessions last for two hours, and cherries are charged per kilogram – trust us when we say these are some of the largest, sweetest cherries going around. And as you pick, feel free to eat as many as you like! The fun doesn't stop at picking cherries; the orchard will host on-site food trucks and stalls hawking food and cherry-flavoured products. On top of the famed cherry ice cream, you can also shop pantry goods like cherry vinaigrette, cherry syrup, cherry barbecue sauce and cherry glaze. You can also bring your own picnic, or pre-order a box of goodies to enjoy on the orchard grounds. And if you visit on a weekend or public holiday, you'll be treated to the sweet sounds of live tunes performed by a rotating line-up of local musos. For more information head to the CherryHill website. 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 things to do? Check out our round-up of the best things happening in Melbourne this

It’s been a cinema, a nightclub, a live theatre and even a Pentecostal church, but nowadays, this historic institution on 20 Bourke Street glistens as the glamorous Le Méridien Melbourne. Originally built as a hotel in the 1850s, the venue has long been a keystone of the city’s cultural scene as the former site of the Palace Theatre and Metro Nightclub, where live music once reverberated wall-to-wall. Like the iterations that came before, Le Méridien Melbourne invites visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant sights, sounds and flavours of the city. Riffing on its Art Deco facade, the 235-room hotel is where contemporary chic meets Mid Century elegance. Walking into the lobby of the hotel, you’ll clock a cinematic-style lobby café and wine bar, where you can enjoy a coffee, cocktail or a cone of Le Scoop gelato. There’s also a striking mural by local artist Stephen Baker, a large-scale sculptural installation by Marta Figueiredo and projected video art by Wendy Yu.  All of the rooms are spacious and exquisitely furnished, but it’s the Palace Suite you’ll really want to splurge on. Located on level 12 with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow for panoramic views stretching over Parliament House, the MCG and beyond to the Dandenong Ranges, it offers a tantalising taste of sky-high luxury.  Delivering more of an elegant private apartment vibe than a standard hotel room, it boasts two bedrooms, a living and dining space, a well-appointed kitchen and two bathrooms – one with a

Melbourne’s stages have seen a slew of jukebox musicals tread the boards over the past few years. They’ve ranged from the powerful (Tina – The Tina Turner Musical) to the cheesy-yet-crowd-pleasing (Mamma Mia! The Musical) and the glossed-over tributes (MJ the Musical). Thankfully, at a time when it feels more important than ever to encourage people to get out and support the local arts industry, A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical arrives at the Princess Theatre full of razzle-dazzle, an abundance of infectious energy and a stacked setlist guaranteed to appeal to the masses. What is A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical about?  Written by Anthony McCarten, directed by Michael Mayer and created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A Beautiful Noise opens on a dour therapy session between an older Diamond (played with commanding gravitas by Terence Crawford) and his doctor (Monica Sayers). It’s an unflinchingly sharp first introduction to the musical legend – all the more surprising given the heavy involvement of Diamond and his wife Katie – who is being particularly stubborn about revealing anything about the “clouds” that darken his demeanour. Enter the doc whipping out a book of all his lyrics, and suddenly, in true musical theatre fashion, the songs are quite literally spilling onto the stage in the form of the ensemble singing a teasing medley of hits to come.   From there we’re transported back in time as a young Diamond (Will Swenson) gets his big br

Just an hour out of the CBD is one of Melbourne's most magical nature havens, home to creatures great and small. And on August 29 and 30, Healesville Sanctuary is hosting its annual Wine and Wildlife event, which is all about celebrating food, wine, winter and beloved Aussie animals. You'll be able to sip and sample delicious tipples from 19 Yarra Valley wineries, breweries and distilleries, including Zonzo Estate, Oakridge, De Bortoli, Stag Lane Distillers, Hop Hen Brewing, St Huberts and more. Non-alcoholic options will also be available. Don’t forget to refuel between cute animal viewings with some snacks from food vendors like the Greatest Doughman, Lady Paella and the Yumpling Truck. Then relax by a bonfire or listen to some live acoustic music. Children aged 18 and under are free, so it'll be fun and affordable for the whole family. And the best part, besides the wine and wildlife? Funds from ticket sales help Healesville Sanctuary continue its work in rescuing and rehabilitating injured wildlife.  For more information and to snap up a ticket, head to the website. Want more? Here's where you can see and cuddle animals in Melbourne. 

It’s lights, camera, action for the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) this August, when a red carpet will be rolled out for a massive eighteen days of cinematic revelry. The festival celebrates Australian and international filmmaking with a huge program of flicks. With so much to see, we've cut through the curtain to unveil everything you need to know.   What is the Melbourne International Film Festival? Now in its 74th year, MIFF is one of the oldest film festivals in the world, alongside Cannes and Berlin. The annual festival is held over three weeks each year throughout Melbourne and surrounds. Founded in 1952, the festival presents a curated global program of screen experiences and the world's largest showcase of Australian filmmaking.  When is the Melbourne International Film Festival? Running between August 6 and 23, MIFF will include 18 days of bold in-cinema programming with star-studded events, world premiere screenings, headline features and filmmaker talks.  What sort of things can we expect from the program? At this stage, we've only just scored a first look at the MIFF line-up for 2026, but let's just say it's already getting a standing ovation (Cannes style, of course) from us. Here are some of the highlights so far. MIFF will host the world premiere of The Airport Chaplain, a drama series set in Melbourne Airport, starring Hugo Weaving and Shabana Azeez, and inspired by a real encounter with Tullamarine's own chaplain. Straight outta Berlinale comes

Melburnians, we know it’s getting chilly. But we’re not the type of city to give up on going out just because the weather is less than ideal. Aside from the inconvenient truth that we’d never get anything done if we didn’t venture out into the cold, Melbourne is heating up with a red-hot good reason to hit the streets this winter. Firelight Festival is returning to Docklands from Friday, July 3 to Sunday, July 5. The area around Victoria Harbour will be set alight, literally, with fire artists, fire pits and flame jets. The blazing highlight of this year's program is set to be an exciting new large-scale laser and light show, featuring water fountains, high-impact lasers and synchronised music. It will transform the waterfront into a kaleidoscope of colour and movement with nightly performances at 6.30pm and 8.30pm. The free, family-friendly festival is a true celebration of winter with a focus on family, community, food, music, fire and light. The program also includes live music, roving entertainment, silent discos, glow-in-the-dark pickleball and neon face painting. There’ll be plenty of snacks to satisfy the appetite you're guaranteed to work up, with food trucks serving everything from s'mores and hot chocolates to other hearty, warming treats.   To find out more and see the festival's full program, 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. Looking for more things to do? Ch

Our second Time Out Social Club at Melbourne's first and only Ukrainian restaurant Otakoï isn't just going to be a big, delicious feast. As well as a Journey to Ukraine set menu, there'll be live Ukrainian music, a homemade nalyvky tasting (of traditional Ukrainian-infused liqueurs), and prizes and giveaways. It'll feel like a journey to Ukraine, without the plane trip.   Otakoi claimed the People's Choice Award title for Favourite Restaurant in this year's Time Out Melbourne Food & Drink Awards (as well as being nominated for the Editors' Choice Best Restaurant Award). Here are all the details:  When: Thursday, June 18Start times: 6pm Cost: $120 per personWhere: Otakoï, 34 Chapel St, Windsor, 3181Book here: Time Out Social Club x Otakoï tickets Set menu: - Ukrainian meat plate- House pickle selection- Borshch (the Ukrainian icon)- Varenyky tasting plate- Main (choose one): holubtsi (stuffed cabbage rolls) or pechenya- Dessert: traditional Ukrainian sweets- 1 alcoholic drink (beer or wine or nalyvka – their Ukrainian signature)- 1 soft drink (e.g. Uzvar or Compot)- Nalyvky tasting Get in quick – secure a table ASAP by clicking here. Read our five-star review of Otakoï here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for more fun stuff to land in your inbox. Still hungry? These are the best restaurants in Melbourne right now.

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.

Here in Victoria, we’re lucky to have access to a glorious range of boutique regional accommodation – from exclusive coastal stays and stargazing bubbles to quirky off-grid tiny houses. And as part of my job, I’ve had the privilege of visiting many of them (lucky duck, I know!). But as I drive up the gorgeous tree-lined driveway to Dairy Flat Lodge and Farm, past a field of curious alpacas and sheep, and catch my first glimpse of the grey-and-white, gable-roofed homestead, I have an immediate hunch that this spot could just be one of the most special places I have ever stayed. And that’s before I discover more about the rich family ties of the property and its strong sustainability ethos. Dairy Flat is located on a 38-hectare regenerative farm in Musk, just a ten-minute drive from the township of Daylesford. It’s owned and operated by the Wolf-Tasker family, who are best known for establishing the nearby Lake House (aka one of Victoria’s most highly acclaimed restaurants) more than 40 years ago, and firmly putting the region on the culinary map.  Photograph: Leah GlynnDairy Flat Farm and Lodge While Dairy Flat officially opened in late 2019, the Wolf-Tasker family has been continuously developing and evolving the property to create what is now, undoubtedly, one of the state’s premier country escapes. The homestead itself can accommodate up to 12 guests across six spacious individual suites, and it’s available for exclusive use – hello, multi-generational holiday. There’s al

When you think of some of the most beautiful towns on Earth, it’s not hard to immediately conjure imagery of fairytale spots like Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland and Praiano in Italy, or even the laidback beach hamlet of Noosa in Queensland.  For me, the first place that comes to mind is Port Fairy – a charming fishing village about three-and-a-half hours from Melbourne, and the final stop along Victoria’s famed Great Ocean Road. Home to towering Norfolk pine trees, a buzzing food and arts scene, and a postcard-perfect red and white lighthouse, it’s everything you could want from a dreamy, underrated coastal destination. And apparently, I’m not the only one who agrees. Condé Nast Traveler just named Port Fairy one of the 20 most beautiful towns on Earth. Featured alongside the aforementioned Lauterbrunnen and Praiano, as well as gorgeous locations in Japan, Ecuador, Indonesia and Slovenia, Port Fairy is the only Aussie inclusion on the global list. According to the round-up, which is all about making a case for the sleepy, quiet towns that are still equally worth a visit when on holiday, Port Fairy is worth lingering in for a while to soak up the rugged beachside scenery and check out the antique shops and historic 19th-century cottages.  Photograph: Belinda Van ZanenPort Fairy I’ve been coming to Port Fairy regularly since I was a child, with my family making the annual pilgrimage every Labour Day long weekend to attend the Port Fairy Folk Festival (affectionately known as ‘t

Melbourne has done it again! Time Out has just dropped its list of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods for 2026, and one of our city’s oldest suburbs has claimed its place in the top 40. Before we reveal exactly where, let’s run you through how we chose the coolest neighbourhoods. Each spot was nominated by an on-the-ground expert from our global network – someone who spends their days exploring the trendiest spots to eat, drink, shop and hang out in their hometown. A panel of Time Out editors then vetted each neighbourhood against a range of criteria, including dining, nightlife, unique local businesses, liveability and community. Topping the list was Seoul’s dynamic hub of Jongno 3-ga, followed by L’Ocean District in Rabat, Neos Kosmos in Athens and Chinatown in Los Angeles. Three Australian neighbourhoods made the cut this year, including Brisbane’s leafy suburb of New Farm (#29), North Hobart (#32) and our very own South Melbourne at number 39. Photograph: Michael PhamUpper Middle in South Melbourne It may be one of the city’s oldest suburbs, but South Melbourne’s cool cred stands the test of time. It’s home to the legendary South Melbourne Market – this historic site (it opened in 1867!) is a gastronomic delight with 150+ traders. But the neighbourhood’s culinary tendrils extend far beyond its namesake market: there’s charming café Juniper, elegant Greek restaurant Aegli, swanky fine diner Lucia, and all-day Euro eatery Upper Middle.  South Melbourne is fast becoming qu

We can die with a smile now, because it's just been announced that Bruno Mars is officially coming to Melbourne in 2027. The 16-time Grammy-winning hitmaker will bring his record-breaking The Romantic Tour to Marvel Stadium in February for four (!!) mega shows – and we can't wait to get our uptown funk on! The ‘I Just Might’ and ‘Locked Out Of Heaven’ singer is currently tearing through the second North American leg of his global tour, where he racked up the largest single-day sales in Ticketmaster history. Safe to say, Aussie tickets will be just as hot a commodity. Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to Bruno Mars’ Melbourne shows in 2027. When is Bruno Mars in Melbourne? The funk master will perform four massive Melbourne shows at Marvel Stadium on Friday, February 19; Saturday, February 20; Tuesday, February 23; and Wednesday, February 24. When do Bruno Mars Melbourne tickets go on sale? Anyone else wanna be a billionaire so they can shout tickets for the whole gang? General public tickets go on sale on Friday, September 4 at 2pm in Melbourne. When is the Bruno Mars Melbourne presale? Superfans can score early access to tickets via the presale, which kicks off on Wednesday, September 2 at 2pm local time in Melbourne. Just make sure to sign up for pre-sale access on Ticketmaster by Sunday, August 30 at 11.59pm. How much are Bruno Mars tickets in Melbourne? Ticket prices range from $101.74 to $500, plus a booking fee.  Who is the support act for

Another day, another reason to feel good about living in Melbourne. Hot off the news that the Victorian capital is one of the best cities for Gen Z to live comes the announcement that Melbourne is also one of the world's best nightlife hotspots. Yep, from bar-hopping to pulling an all-nighter at a club (and all the secret parties, raves and events in between), if there's fun to be had when the sun sets, you bet this city of ours is delivering.  As always, to curate the ranking, Time Out went straight to the people who know their city best. More than 24,000 locals were quizzed about the nightlife scene in their hometown right now, on things like preferences for clubbing or cocktail bars, how affordable it is to go out at night, the overall quality of nightlife, how easy it is to find community, and how safe, exciting, welcoming and diverse their city is. That data was then crunched by Time Out’s city editors and culture experts who voted for their favourite cities for after-dark fun. To ensure global representation, only the highest-scoring city for each country made the list. Which brings us to the official ranking... Topping the list in 2026 is Bangkok. The Thai capital offers everything from pokey street-side bars and mega clubs to 360-degree rooftop bars and LGBTQIA+ parties. Global club hub Berlin followed (no surprises there), and New York City took out the bronze medal.   Coming in fourth top spot is our very own city of Melbourne (which means it also takes the crown as

It's been a big couple of weeks for theatre fans in Melbourne. First it was announced that a brand new stage adaptation of the classic Aussie film The Castle is premiering at Her Majesty's Theatre in March next year. Then came the news that The Lion King is officially returning (also next March!), after a hugely successful run in Sydney. And now, there's another blockbuster production to add to the must-see list. Matilda the Musical – based on the beloved children's book by Roald Dahl – is coming to Melbourne after more than a decade. The award-winning show, written by Dennis Kelly and with music and lyrics by Australia's own Tim Minchin, will open at the Princess Theatre in October 2027. If you're not familiar with the story of Matilda (which was also adapted into a film version in 1996 directed by Danny DeVito), it tells the tale of an extraordinary young girl with an incredible imagination and some newly discovered telekinetic powers who stands up to injustice. Loaded with heart, humour and featuring themes of bravery, courage and kindness, it's a timeless narrative that the whole family can enjoy. Matilda the Musical has won more than 100 international awards and has been seen by more than 13 million people across the globe. The 2027 Australian production will be produced by Louise Withers, Michael Coppel and Linda Bewick. While there have been no announcements on the cast yet, we will keep you updated as we know more. Photograph: Hanan AssorMatilda the Musical “I am s

It's the news local theatre fans have been eagerly hoping for. And now, we can finally confirm that The Lion King is coming to Melbourne!  After playing to delighted audiences in Sydney since April, and following the announcement it was heading to Brisbane this November, the world's number one musical will return to Melbourne in March 2027. The iconic stage production – which has been seen by more than 124 million people worldwide – had its Melbourne premiere in 2005, and was last in town in 2015. Now that's a long time between Hakuna Matatas. This time around, it will take up residency at the Regent Theatre from March 25, 2027, with tickets set to go on sale on October 15. The Lion King has played to nearly 4 million Aussies across its two previous tours, and the upcoming Melbourne season is an exciting opportunity for loyal fans to reconnect with the songs they know and love, and to spark a new wave of excitement in the next generation of theatregoers.  Photograph: Daniel BoudThe Lion King The cast features some of the very best local talent, along with performers from across the globe. This includes Buyi Zama as Rafiki (who is playing the role for the third time), Nick Afoa as Mufasa (who first roared onto the stage as Simba more than a decade ago) and Australian stage and screen favourite Daniel Frederiksen as the villainous Scar.  The show also features more than 232 puppets that represent 24 different kinds of animal species. Plus, five African languages are spoken or

In what may come as a shock to our older readers, Gen Z really are all grown up and paying rent, holding down important jobs and just trying to have as much fun as possible without spiralling about the current state of the world (tough, we know!). So where's the best place for a twenty-something to try and live their best life right now? Well, as part of Time Out's annual ranking of the best cities in the world (which, ICYMI, Melbourne ranked number one on), we filtered down our 2026 global data to reflect only the responses of those under 30.  Taking the crown is the city of Tokyo, which received standout scores for Gen Z happiness (100 per cent of the Gen Zs surveyed agreed that they find joy in everyday experiences) and nightlife. Landing at number two is Porto, thanks to its ‘community feel’ and affordability. And our very own city of Melbourne ranked third. Why? Melbourne scored exceptionally well for restaurants and eating out, with a 100 per cent Gen Z approval rating, as well as for its culture, which garnered positive reviews from 97 per cent of our young respondents. While 94 per cent of people had good things to say about their local neighbourhood.   It shouldn't come as too much of a surprise. After all, Melbourne boasts an exciting and diverse arts scene, where indie theatre and live music (or comedy, improv and even secret raves) can be found most nights of the week. And those opportunities to get involved are only set to grow with the recent announcement of a 

When it comes to modern-day Melbourne hospitality legends, it's hard to think of a name more impressive than Andrew McConnell. The prominent chef and restaurateur, along with his partner Jo McGann and their tight-knit Trader House group, have spearheaded some of the city's best-loved restaurants and bars over the years – Gimlet, Apollo Inn, Supernormal, Builders Arms Hotel, Marion, Cumulus Inc, Cutler and several more successful projects. And the powerhouse team aren't planning to slow down anytime soon, with a brand-new restaurant to add to their portfolio: Côte Basque. Opening on Friday, August 7 in the former Becco site in Melbourne’s CBD, the European-style grill will take inspiration from the fresh ingredient-driven, flame-grilled cuisine and vibrant energy of the Basque Coast.    Photograph: Sharyn CairnsCôte Basque “Since my first trip to the Basque in the '90s I have been inspired by the region,” says McConnell. “We wanted to do an authentic wood grill and wood-oven restaurant, dedicating a menu to the beauty of that tradition of cooking. We’re trying to keep it as simple as possible – the best produce we can get our hands on, treat it with care, grill it perfectly, put it on the plate.” The two-part menu will feature a daily grill list of fresh seafood, prime cuts of of David Blackmore’s Rohne hybrid of Wagyu and Galician rubia gallega, desserts such as a chocolate soufflé and what's set to be an instant Côte Basque classic: the calamari à la brute (aka calamari se

Rio de Janeiro. Mexico. The Italian isle of Capri. No that's not the itinerary for our upcoming holiday (we wish!), it's a look back at some of the past themes to have transformed Melbourne's most beloved floating bar and restaurant, Afloat. And now – drumroll, please – we finally know which sunny destination will take over for the upcoming 2026/27 spring-summer season. It's time to smash a plate and down a shot of ouzo because the theme is ‘Yamas Greece’. That's right, it doesn't matter if you didn't make it to Milos for a Euro summer this year, because the bright colours, delicious flavours and lively spirit of the Greek Islands are coming to Melbourne.  Channelling the name from the famous Greek toast, which means “to our health”, we can expect the design elements to reflect the relaxed, coastal vibes of the sun-soaked islands. Think natural textures, terracotta and that iconic blue-and-white colour palette. The drinks menu will spotlight a selection of Greek wines (mostly whites, rosés and medium-bodied aromatic reds), while the cocktails will feature a Hellenic twist. We're talking a Long Island Iced Tea made with Greek mountain tea or a ouzo frozen cola. And if you've been craving a gyros just like the one you had in Mykonos in the summer of 2018, you're in luck – the menu is set to be loaded with everything from fresh seafood and grilled meets to meze, gyros and some yummy sweet treats. “Our new menu dishes are inspired by travels and time spent working in Greece, dr

‘Delmonte’ is Italian for ‘from the mountains’; at Carlton's just-opened Delmonte restaurant, the name is a nod to the history, heritage and hospitality of Valli del Pasubio in Italy’s mountainous Veneto region. After all, owner Jamie Valmorbida’s grandfather Carlo was born there. When he moved to Melbourne, Carlo took over the heritage-listed King and Godfree building on Lygon Street in 1955, shaping it into an iconic food destination.  Delmonte has just opened its doors inside this very same building, returning to those Italian roots of community, food and wine. The second of three new venues from hospo entrepreneur Valmorbida, this 120-seater (with room for 40 outside) marks the next chapter in the revival of this historic landmark, which earlier saw the opening of Garfield Pizzeria.    Photograph: SuppliedDelmonte Delmonte leans into something slower and more soulful: a neighbourhood Italian restaurant and wine room built around woodfired cooking and exceptional wine. At its heart is a wood oven and grill, setting the tone for a menu that’s grounded in the simplicity of a classic Italian osteria, yet open to a more modern interpretation.  “We’ve built the sort of place we'd want to go ourselves,” says owner Valmorbida. “Delmonte is Carlton’s new local. Somewhere you can come in for one drink and end up staying for dinner.” Leading the kitchen is head chef Diana Desensi from Daphne (ex-Saint George, Julie, Pt Leo Estate), who also worked alongside culinary director Karen

“How’s the serenity?” “We’re going to Bonnie Doon!” “That's going straight to the pool room” – if these quotes mean something to you, chances are you've seen the classic Aussie film The Castle once or twice (or a hundred times, we're not judging).  Well, in exciting news for all those who consider the loveable Kerrigan crew part of their own extended family, it has just been announced that a brand new theatrical adaptation of the flick will land in Melbourne next year – premiering at Her Majesty's Theatre in March.  It's been almost 30 years since the film was first released, starring local acting legends Michael Caton, Anne Tenney, Stephen Curry, Eric Bana and Sophie Lee. It told the tale of working-class battler Darryl Kerrigan as he fought to save his beloved family home (“A man's home is his castle!”) from greedy developers keen to expand the neighbouring airport.  The stage adaptation is being developed by the film's original creators – Rob Sitch, Tom Gleisner, Santo Cilauro and Jane Kennedy – and is set to recapture all the heart, humour and larrikin magic audiences know and love. With a few contemporary references thrown in, of course.  While the cast is yet to be announced, the production will be directed by Paige Rattray (best known for her work on Netflix's Heartbreak High), with set and costumes by AACTA Award-winning designer Jonathon Oxlade.  And if you're hoping to snag a seat, we reckon you'll want to more fast – The Castle has just smashed Her Majesty Theatre'