What to do in Melbourne this winter

Explore the vibrant wonders of Melbourne during the winter season with our guide to the city’s top attractions and activities as the weather cools. From cosy cafés and art galleries to outdoor adventures, Melbourne offers a myriad of experiences that will make this winter truly memorable.

Embrace the chilly weather and explore Lightscape. After a hugely popular debut in Melbourne last year, the experience returns to the Royal Botanic Gardens from June 16th to August 6th. Take a night-time stroll and enjoy luminous pathways, tree-lit canopies and soothing soundscapes along a 2.1km trail accompanied by colour-changing installations, illuminated sculptures and much more. This family-friendly experience is a true winter masterpiece.

Get a dose of culture and stay warm by attending the Melbourne Now exhibition, currently on at the NGV. The exhibit highlights Victorianbased artists, designers, studios and firms whose practices are shaping the cultural landscape of our city and is a must-see for locals and visitors alike. Also at the NGV is the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition that this year presents the world premiere of Pierre Bonnard: Designed by India Mahdavi. Curated by Paris’s Musée d’Orsay, the exhibition showcases the work of the great French painter.

Indulge in comforting food and wine at the Winter Night Market at the Queen Victoria Markets. On every Wednesday evening between June and the end of August, the market has live music, food stalls, baked goods and warming drinks. Stay warm by staying inside and enjoying great food and wine at old favourites and newcomers such as Embla, Osteria Ilaria, Epocha, 1800 Lasagne and Centonove

Immerse yourself in cultural delights such as Rising Festival from the 7th – 18th June. This fortnight of powerful theatre, exhilarating dance, local and international music, public performance and outdoor works of mass participation gives Melburnians and visitors the opportunity to discover a new side of the city. The program includes 185 events featuring more than 400 artists and will take over Melbourne’s streets, carparks, churches, theatres and more.

Also in the CBD is the Raclette Igloo Experience at Federation Square. The pop-up experience exclusively dedicated to cheese and cold weather is on now until June 11th.

Whether you’re a local seeking new adventures or a visitor discovering the city for the first time, there are a range of options to ensure you make the most of the winter months.