City of Melbourne

Chill out

in Melbourne

Rooftop Bar Robyn Lea

Cathedral Arcade

Melbourne’s Lord Mayor Sally Capp shares some of her top tips for the summer.

We’re bringing the buzz back with unrivalled Christmas and New Year celebrations and plenty of uniquely Melbourne experiences to dive into. You can plan your summer in the city with our fabulous What’s On Melbourne website, but these are my insider tips for how to best enjoy the warmer months.

Book in some retail therapy

Wrap up your Christmas shopping early as we turn Melbourne inside out, bringing indoor trading out onto our city’s laneways and streets. Nothing beats in-person retail therapy, and our boutiques and malls are ready and waiting for you to find your perfect fit – no delivery delays in sight.

Reconnect and refresh with those you’ve missed

Our popular rooftop and al fresco dining spots are set and ready for that long-awaited cool drink with friends – and perhaps a scoop or two of gelato. Cool down and reconnect as you watch the sun set over Melbourne’s skyline. Toast to a new year in a waterfront bar or restaurant along Docklands and Southbank, or pack the picnic basket with delicious fare from the Queen Victoria Market and enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of our beautiful parks and gardens.

Treat yourself to some real-life entertainment and a staycation

Summer days in Melbourne stretch into warm evenings filled with live music, festivals and holiday activities for all ages. Splash out with a city staycation to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the excitement. Our city’s inviting hotels are only ever a short stroll from our world-class dining and retail precincts, enthralling theatres and breathtaking galleries. A number of new luxury hotels have opened just this year and boast some of the most stunning and refreshing pools for cooling off after a day of exploring.

I can’t wait to welcome you back for our biggest and best summer yet.