Princesses and villains: How to have the ultimate Disney day out in Melbourne

Where better to turn on the charm and channel your inner Disney Princess than over high tea at the Hotel Windsor. This grand old establishment – which has welcomed many a royal through its doors – boasts luxurious furnishings that are fit for, well, a princess. You’ll dine on cakes, pastries, scones, finger sandwiches and more, in a truly sumptuous banquet setting the likes of which have not been seen since Belle was treated to a parade of French delicacies in Beauty and the Beast.

For an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at how some of your favourite princesses came to life on the big screen, you need to check out ACMI’s incredible, 90-year showcase of Disney animation. Direct from the Walt Disney Animation Studio in California, the Disney: The Magic of Animation exhibition shines a spotlight on more than 500 ​​original paintings, sketches and concept art that have rarely been seen by the public. But the best bit? You can channel your inner Snow White when you step inside a scene from the 1937 classic, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Take to the mighty Yarra River to survey your kingdom when you jump aboard a GoBoat. These five-metre-long, eco-friendly vessels seat up to eight loyal subjects, and don’t require a boating license to operate. Departing from Sandridge Wharf at Southbank, you can cruise past famous landmarks like Flinders Street Station, Fed Square and Birrarung Marr, or why not find a quiet spot away from the city crowds and recreate the ‘Kiss the Girl’ scene from The Little Mermaid – go on, you know you want to.

With glowing neon signs, plush velour lounges and a sun-drenched outdoor terrace, Pinchy's is the ideal spot for a princess to spend a balmy evening with her besties. This pink-hued lobster and Champagne restauarant is an inner-city oasis, and offers a fun, playful dining experience that will leave any fair maiden swooning. Kick off happy hour with a cheeky glass of bubbles or a cocktail adorned with flowers, and load up on bite-sized treats like a tuna taco or snapper croquette. And no visit is complete without ordering at least one lobster roll (you'll thank us later).

Iconic sisters Elsa and Anna take to the stage as part of Frozen the Musical at Her Majesty’s Theatre. This magical tale – which you’re probably already very familiar with – is even more dazzling to see on stage, and features gorgeous costumes and jaw-dropping special effects, plus all the songs you know and love. And while it’s hard to pinpoint just one highlight of the production, there’s no denying the moment ‘Let It Go’ begins (and everyone inevitably starts to sing along) is a pretty special one. This theatrical event definitely calls for your finest princess gown, so be sure to frock up for the occasion.

After such a busy day, it’s safe to assume you’ll fall into an Aurora-like slumber as soon as you enter your room at this newly-opened hotel, located at the Paris end of Bourke Street. With a sparkling, grandiose chandelier at the entrance you’ll think you’re right back at the castle, while the fully stocked mini bar and Hunter Lab amenities are extra nice touches. And there’s no need to worry about feeling groggy in the morning – with soft-but-sturdy beds, heavenly pillows and soundproof rooms, you’ll awaken fresh as daisy, just like a real-life Sleeping Beauty.