Leah Glynn is the editor for Time Out Melbourne. When she's not brunching with friends, going for long walks with her rescue greyhound or searching for Melbourne's best spaghetti bolognese, she loves reading and binge-watching TV shows. Leah has worked as a digital content creator, writer and editor for more than seven years, mostly across a range of travel publications.

Reach her at leah.glynn@timeout.com or connect with her on social media.

Instagram: @leahh_g

Leah Glynn

Leah Glynn

Melbourne Editor

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Articles (167)

The best things to do in Melbourne this weekend

The best things to do in Melbourne this weekend

Melbourne comes alive on the weekend, so be sure to leave some room in your schedule to get out and experience the best of it! To help you make the most of your Friday, Saturday and Sunday, we've gathered all the hottest events, shows, gigs, exhibitions, openings and pop-up activations in one easy spot – you're welcome! There's a lot to love about Melbourne's theatre scene this weekend, with a plethora of shows to catch. Beetlejuice the Musical continues its successful run, while Hadestown finishes up on July 13 – so it's your last week to catch it. Beloved production Annie has just begun at the Princess Theatre, along with the Melbourne Theatre Company's Mother Play (starring Sigrid Thornton). And don't forget to head to the Queen Vic Market for the annual Bastille Day French Festival – you can expect lots of cheese, crêpes, Champagne and pastries, plus can-can dancers and mime artists. Oui oui! When in doubt, 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 100 things to do in Melbourne before you die.   Looking for more ways to fill up your calendar? Plan a trip around our beautiful state with our handy travel guides.
The best of Melbourne theatre and musicals this month

The best of Melbourne theatre and musicals this month

July 2025: Listen up! It's your last chance to catch the smash-hit musical 'Hadestown', with the folk and jazz-infused production finishing up on July 13. Trust us, you'll have the soundtrack on repeat after you've seen it. 'Beetlejuice the Musical' is also continuing its mega successful run this month, leaving audiences in stitches night after night. For something completely unexpected, dont miss the Malthouse Theatre's 'ECHO: Every Cold-Hearted Oxygen'. Each night will see playwright Nassim Soleimanpour guide a new guest through the script for a (totally unrehearsed) performance that quite literally no one has seen before. 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 100 things to do in Melbourne before you die.  Want something else to do this month? Check out our gig guide.
Things to do in Melbourne today

Things to do in Melbourne today

Have your plans for tonight fallen through or are you simply the type to live on the edge and wait until the last possible moment to plan your day? Luckily, Melbourne is the type of city where you can always count on finding something fun to do on short notice – even right now, in the depths of winter. From five-star musicals to world-class exhibitions, there is plenty to do if you're keen to explore the city's arts and culture scene. Love nothing more than a good ol' pamper sesh? Hit up a day spa or book yourself in for a facial. And if you're hungry – boy, are you in luck. Head to one of Melbourne's best restaurants or bars for a meal you won't forget. We even have some cheap eat options, if you're on a budget.  The fun doesn't stop at the city limits, either. Hit the road for an epic day trip, where you can discover the coolest waterfalls or go on a stunning hike. And because it's officially snow season, here's everything you need to know about hitting the slopes in Victoria. So, what are you waiting for? Have a scroll, lace up your shoes and prepare to hit the town – these are the best things to do in Melbourne today. Want more? Check out these great free things to do, or work your way through our 100 best things to do in Melbourne before you die bucket list.
Things to do in Melbourne this week

Things to do in Melbourne this week

There's always something happening in this fair city of ours, so don't let the week pass you by without popping a few fun events into your social calendar. To help you plan, we've rounded up all the best activities happening this week, so all you have to do is scroll, pick and embark on your adventure. It's going to get really icy this week, but one surefire way to warm up is to head to Grazeland for its Winter Wonderland activation. There will be fire pits, cosy eats, mulled wine and even a snow machine. It's a similar vibe at the Queen Vic Winter Night Market, where you can shop specialty stalls, have a tarot card reading and eat warming dishes like soup served in a bread roll and melty, gooey raclette. Or you can just stay inside where it's warm and check out two of the NGV's spectacular new exhibitions: Kimono and French Impressionism: From the Museum of Fine Arts Boston. When in doubt, 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 100 things to do in Melbourne before you die.   Looking for more ways to fill up your calendar? Plan a trip around our beautiful state with our handy travel guides.
The nine best facials in Melbourne

The nine best facials in Melbourne

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.  After more self-care? Here are Melbourne's best spas and bath houses. Love a soak? Check out the best hot springs in Victoria.
The 49 best bars in Melbourne

The 49 best bars in Melbourne

July 2025 update: It's that time of the year when all you want to do is settle by a cosy fireplace or in a quiet booth and sip delicious bevvies with the people you love. Luckily, this list is chock-full of charming spots where you can do just that. Our tip for a winter bev? If there's mulled wine or hot cider, always order it. Melbourne has some of the greatest bars in the world, whether you're looking for the laser-like focus of 16-seater Above Board or the rock‘n’roll ‘she’ll be right’ spirit of Lulie Tavern. You can find temples heroing whisky and palaces dedicated to gin, hole-in-the-wall nooks for sipping natural wines or classy spots for suited-and-booted cocktails. How about a prawn club sanga and a bottle of Champers from tiny charmer Apollo Inn? Or crocodile bites and ice-cold Martinis from Black Kite Commune?  If it's sky-high action you're after, then take a squiz at our guide to Melboune's best rooftop bars instead. For tipples a bit more out-of-the-box, we've got the scoop on some of Melbourne's weirdest drinking experiences. Yep, your options in this town are truly endless – even if you don't drink booze, since most bars in Melbourne have seriously upped their mocktail game in recent years. We've rounded up the top 49 bars that we're really loving right now – and we're sure you will, too.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READ: Hungry? We've got you covered  with
The best art and exhibitions in Melbourne this month

The best art and exhibitions in Melbourne this month

July 2025: If you thought winter was a quiet time in Melbourne's art world, think again. The NGV Winter Masterpieces has just opened, and it provides a dazzling deep dive into the world of French Impressionism, with exclusive works by Monet, Degas, Van Gogh and Renoir direct from the Museum of Fine Arts Boston. Also at the NGV is Kimono, a beautiful exhibition that showcases the extraordinary range of the once-humble Japanese outfit. And the Potter Museum of Art has reopened after a major transformation with 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art. It features more than 400 artworks from the likes of Destiny Deacon, Yhonnie Scarce, Albert Namatjira and Emily Kam Kngwarray, including rare cultural works. 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 this May. 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 100 things to do in Melbourne before you die.  Keen to add some art to your home? These are the best places to buy art in Melbourne.
Things to do in Melbourne in July

Things to do in Melbourne in July

Brrr! The winter chill has well and truly settled in across Melbourne, but that doesn't mean you should remain curled up on the couch with the heater blasting. Chuck on a beanie, scarf and your North Face puffer jacket, and get ready to explore everything the city has to offer this month.   Any local knows that Melbourne in July is all about glowing and illuminated events. We're talking Lightscape in the Botanic Gardens (grab a mulled wine to really spice up the experience), Puffing Billy's magical Train of Lights and Firelight Festival in Docklands. You can also catch dazzling lights shows across regional Victoria, including at the East Gippsland Winter Festival and Electric Wonderland in Bendigo. Foodies won't want to miss the collab of the year when Mould teams up with Pinot Palooza for a weekend of wine, cheese and... more wine and cheese. Those with a sweet tooth may prefer the Australian Chocolate Festival, where up to 42 exhibitors will be offering free samples of the good stuff. And Grazeland will be turning into a wintery oasis with cosy bites, live music, neon lights and a snow machine. On the arts and culture front, there's a blockbuster line-up of shows and exhibitions to catch: Beetlejuice the Musical, Hadestown, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Super, Kimono and French Impressionism: From the Museum of Fine Arts Boston. Phew! If that's not enough to stop you bingeing Netflix in your Oodie, we don't know what is. See you out there.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our f
A local's guide to Fitzroy

A local's guide to Fitzroy

Fitzroy is an eclectic suburb with a rich history etched into its pubs and gay bars, narrow streets and terrace houses, long-lasting retailers and modern wine bars that have kept the old decor. The suburb was once long associated with the working class and was known to have a bohemian vibe but became a casualty of gentrification in the ’80s and ’90s. Yet despite undergoing urban revitalisation, much of the heritage buildings and Victorian-era architecture have lasted through the decades and play a key role in the area’s ambience – right next to the street art.  You’ll find various characters within Fitzroy’s nooks, including students, young professionals and those of the older generation that have called the community home for decades. It’s economically diverse, too, having one of Melbourne’s largest public housing complexes while also putting up some of the most exxy rent in all of the city. It’s hard to pigeonhole the area but, why would you want to? The traditional custodians of the land are the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung of the Kulin Nation and the Kulin name for the area is Ngár-go, meaning high ground. Jump to a section: EAT DRINK COFFEE SHOPPING THINGS TO DO What’s Fitzroy known for? Fitzroy is known to be a cultural hub with a vibrant heart and is celebrated for its unconventional, arty and eccentric nature. Head along Gertrude Street and you’ll be met with designer shops and independent retailers nestled beside bars known for their drag bingo and queer nights. Head dow
The best things to do in Perth

The best things to do in Perth

Perth might feel like it's in a world of its own, but anyone who's been there will tell you it's absolutely worth the trip (which is a little over four hours by plane from Sydney or Melbourne). Once solely known for its pristine beaches and perfect weather, Perth’s booming restaurant and culture scenes, and its trendy sister city Fremantle (located just half an hour from Perth), have put Western Australia’s capital city on the international radar. Our expert writers, including Time Out's Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, have collated this mega guide on the best things to do in Perth. From a breezy stroll through Kings Park to a dip at the stunning Cottesloe Beach, the essentials are all here. We also reckon day trips to Fremantle and Rottnest Island are absolute musts. Happy exploring! 🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth right now🖼️ Perth's top museums and galleries⭐️ The best hotels in Perth
Light shows and festivals in Melbourne, including Lightscape

Light shows and festivals in Melbourne, including Lightscape

Do you love anything sparkling, glowing or illuminated? You've come to the right place – there are plenty of gorgeous light-up events to discover in Melbourne. It's time to get your glow on. Want to explore regional Victoria? Here's our list of winter light festivals outside of Melbourne.
A guide to Melbourne's best winter festivals and events

A guide to Melbourne's best winter festivals and events

There's something about Melbourne in winter. The moody afternoon light filtering through laneways; the warm glow of cosy wine bars; and of course, the plethora of events and festivals that keep the city buzzing.  This year, there's heaps to do including catching thrilling shows on the ice, feasting on wintery food and drink and exploring regional festivals.  Hungry? Grab a bite at these Melbourne pubs with fireplaces. Thirsty? Here's where you can get mulled wine in Melbourne.

Listings and reviews (144)

Melbourne International Film Festival

Melbourne International Film Festival

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 program of more than 275 films. 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 73rd 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 7 and 24, 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? Drumroll, please! The full MIFF line-up has just dropped, and let's just say it's getting a standing ovation (Cannes style, of course) from us. The 2025 program will feature more than 275 screen works – including both international and local picks – alongside a curated schedule of talks, panels and special events.  Kicking things off with a bang on August 7 is the Opening Night Gala Feature Film: If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, by writer-directo
Ballarat Winter Festival

Ballarat Winter Festival

There’s something a bit magical about the historic regional town of Ballarat in the dark, cold months – and that is exactly what the Ballarat Winter Festival seeks to amplify. Until July 27, the Gold Rush town will come alive with food and wine events, gigs and performances, a huge market and glowing Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill.  Highlights of the program include the much-loved pop-up skating rink; the Hot Choc Showdown, aka your chance to sample decadent hot chocolates by more than 25 local venues; the Ukiyo Spiegeltent, where you can catch circus and comedy acts; and the Design Exchange Market, which brings together a number of independent designers, artists and creators. Phew, talk about jam-packed! You can check out the full program on the Ballarat Winter Festival's website.  For more frosty fun, check out our guide to Melbourne's winter festivals and events.
Run Melbourne

Run Melbourne

On your marks, get set, go! Pop your activewear on and get ready to run the winter blues away, because Run Melbourne is back. On July 13 challenge yourself with a half marathon, ten-kilometre or 5.5-kilometre run or walk, all in the name of charity. Live music, cheer squads and hoards of fellow runners are sure to distract you from the hustle of pushing forward with every step, that is unless you’re into the competitive stuff. If that's the case, it's time to put your training to the test and see if you can beat your personal best (and the best of those around you). In its 17-year history, Run Melbourne has helped raise more than $20 million for more than 300 charities. This year's event will feature DJs, food trucks, pre-race warm-ups and finish-line celebrations. The route will also take participants past iconic Melbourne landmarks like Federation Square, Marvel Stadium, Flinders Street Station, the Arts Centre, Shrine of Remembrance and the Royal Botanic Gardens before finishing at Melbourne Park Oval. Registrations for all events are now open and you can raise funds for your chosen charity through the event's fundraising partner Grassrootz. For more information, visit the website. Need to get back in shape beforehand? Here are Melbourne's best gyms and best running clubs.
Winter Glow

Winter Glow

You might think water parks and winter don't mix (especially down here in Victoria). But Geelong's Adventure Park isn't letting a little cold weather stop it from providing Victorians with a good time – in fact, it's provided a little inspiration.  Adventure Park's Winter Glow event is bringing lights, fire, ice and snow to the amusement park this winter. The festival (which is running until August 9) features fire twirling, ice sculptures and 3.3 million lights that will twinkle all around the park along a two-kilometre trail. While real snow might be a rare sight in Geelong, there will be a huge snow play zone (the largest outside of the ski resorts) where kids can make snowmen and snow angels  –warm gloves, gumboots and jackets are recommended!  Eight theme park rides are included in entry, including the Tea Cups, Air Balloons, Crazy Coaster, Wave Swinger, Grand Carousel, Red Baron, Little Buggy Speedway and Ferris Wheel (what a way to see the park all lit up). Face painting and marshmallow toasting will be on offer for the kids, while adults can enjoy a spiked hot chocolate, mulled wine or spiced cider. And lots of delicious novelty food items available to dine on, too. Winter Glow is on at Adventure Park until August 9. Find out more here. Keen for more winter fun? Here are the best things to do in July.
Amaroo

Amaroo

5 out of 5 stars
The first thing I notice as my Uber cruises down Amaroo’s long driveway is just how lush and green the estate is – coming from Melbourne, where it’s been so very dry recently, the dewy rolling hills look almost fake to me, and I blink my eyes a few times to drink it all in. Have I landed in paradise? It certainly appears so. Amaroo is nestled in the Bangalow hinterland, about a five-minute drive from the township. It’s the brainchild of owners Mike and Cathy Tomkins, who purchased the property with the intent to restore its ecological balance. What they’ve created is a luxurious, extremely private retreat that is focused on sustainability, regeneration (the pair have planted around 45,000 native trees) and connection to the land. It also doubles as a working farm – go for a wander around the grounds and you’ll spot a herd of black Angus cattle. Farm life has never looked so appealing. Why stay at Amaroo? To immerse yourself in the splendour of a property that is working in harmony with the natural environment around it. This isn’t a place to stay only to remain glued to your phone or laptop. You’re encouraged to relax by the pool, enjoy a creek-side picnic, spot wildlife, cosy up with a book next to the fireplace or sip Champagne on the swing. All in total peace and quiet, too – Amaroo’s secluded location makes it feel as though you’re miles away from civilisation. While I found it to be a gorgeous spot for some R&R during my solo stay, it’s also perfect for a cosy couple’s g
Hume Winter Lights Festival

Hume Winter Lights Festival

Back for another big year, this after-dark light festival in Melbourne’s north is coaxing you out of the house with live music, light projections, interactive art, roving performances, food trucks and family friendly activities On Saturday, June 21 from 6pm, the Town Hall Broadmeadows precinct will be bathed in colour while a festival of grand proportions takes place under the banner of the Hume Winter Lights Festival. The free, one-night-only festival will go big with a line-up that includes Bag Raiders (you bet we're excited to hear 'Shooting Stars' live) and Lastlings. You'll be able to dance the night away as these music legends get the crowd up and moving. Wander around a visual feast of interactive art, dazzling light projections and immersive experiences by local visual artists and community groups. Meanwhile, roving entertainers and acrobats will also keep you enthralled.  To keep you fuelled for a night of festivities, there will be more than 20 food trucks spanning a wide range of cuisines. Best of all, the night will be topped off with a shimmering fireworks display. To find out more and register your interest, head to the website.  Want more? Here are the best things to do in Melbourne this June.
Reclink Community Cup

Reclink Community Cup

Since 1993, the Reclink Community Cup has pitted two teams with questionable footy skills to raise money for Reclink Australia, an organisation that provides sports, recreation and arts programs to disadvantaged Australians. If you love footy, music and chilled-out fun times, then it's one of the highlights of winter. And this year, it's taking place on June 15 at Victoria Park in Abbotsford. So here's the deal. You've got two teams: the Megahertz (made up of radio folk from Triple R and PBS 106.7FM) and the Rockdogs (made up of Aussie musicians). Some are surprisingly skilled, and others not so much – but the main thing is that they put on a bloody great game to watch. On top of that, the day is packed with live performers. This year's line-up includes Spiderbait, Milo Eastwood, Frente, Charlie Needs Braces and more. Everyone is welcome at this event (which, combining rock and footy, is basically the most Melbourne event ever created) – so bring your family, your dog and get ready to cheer. There'll be plenty of children's activities and food stalls, too.  Tickets are on sale now via here.  Looking for more things to do? Check out our round-up of the best things happening in Melbourne this week.
Replay Festival

Replay Festival

Try as you might, it is awfully hard to see every single comedian at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF). The good news is you've been given a second swing at the best of the fest, with Comedy Republic's Replay Festival. For the entire month of July, Replay Festival is bringing some of the top MICF shows for a second round on stage. On the line-up are more than 40 comedians, including breakout acts, award nominees and critically acclaimed favourites who sold our their original runs. We're talking the likes of Scout Boxall, Brett Blake, Alex Ward, Gillian Cosgriff, Lloyd Langford, Nick White, Robyn Reynolds, Takashi Wagasuki and Greg Larsen, to name a few. Plus, US comedian Liza Treygor will also make an appearance, fresh off the debut of her Netflix special. Whether you couldn't get a ticket the first time around, or just want to keep the laughs going, Replay Festival is a guaranteed good time. Oh, and it also offers vital support to Melbourne's arts community in an otherwise quiet time of the year. What's not to love? Find out more and buy tickets here. Keen to keep laughing? Here's where you can see regular comedy in Melbourne.
Brownie Festival

Brownie Festival

The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and its sister venues, Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Mornington Peninsula Chocolaterie, are hosting a delicious 18-day festival dedicated to possibly the best baked invention since sliced bread: the brownie. During the sweet extravaganza, the chocolateries will be releasing 16 limited-edition brownie varieties to sample, along with a range of brownie-inspired desserts and drinks.  Wondering what flavours are available this year? Here's a tasty teaser about what to expect: Dubai chocolate, Basque cheesecake, peanut butter chocolate whisky, black sesame and yuzu tarte. Yum! There are even gluten-free and vegan options to try so no one misses out. If you eat, sleep and breathe brownies, you might want to consider booking one of the tasting sessions. This is where you'll get to concoct your dream brownie from 50 different ingredients and while that’s baking, get to sample eight exclusive creations including bites, a hot chocolate and brownie ice cream You can even order the brownies to take home too – if they last the drive home, that is. The Brownie Festival is on from June 11-29. You can find out more here.  Keen for more fun? Here are the best things to do around Victoria in June.
Oz Comic-Con

Oz Comic-Con

Unlock a new dimension at the 2025 edition of Oz Comic-Con, which is taking place at the Melbourne International Conference and Exhibition Centre on June 7 and 8. Some huge international stars are set to appear and meet fans, including beloved actress Catherine Tate (Doctor Who), Giancarlo Esposito (Breaking Bad, The Mandalorian), Brandon Rogers, Zach Aguilar and Renée O’Connor. There will be industry talks and panels, gaming opportunities, workshops, activations, live performances, parades and plenty of exclusive merch.  At the convention, eager cosplayers can enter one of the most prestigious contests in Australia, which highlights the jaw-dropping talent and craftsmanship. Attendees will betreated to a show floor and schedule that includes Artist Alley, Gaming Zones and more. No matter what fandom you're part of, everyone's welcome. For more information and to purchase tickets, head to the Oz Comic-Con website. Looking for more fun? Here are the best things to do in Melbourne this week. 
Woodend Winter Arts Festival

Woodend Winter Arts Festival

Looking for something to do this King's Birthday long weekend? Head up to the charming village of Woodend, located just an hour's drive from the CBD, for its annual Winter Arts Festival (WWAF) from June 6 to 9.  The diverse program features some of Australia’s leading classical musicians and greatest literary minds. Join in on discussions about a variety of big topics, as well as a talk from the great niece of legendary author Jane Austen.  For music fans, there's a wealth of sound to consume. The program features international artists exclusive to the festival, including violinist Anne Harvey-Nagl direct from Vienna, and Moroccan vocalist Lamiae Naki with her ensemble Seffarine, with a performance featuring flamenco dance.  Also on the line-up is a late-night show with jazz guitarist Chris Johnstone and two incredible performances from 8 Cellos, plus lots more.  Across the four-day feast of music, words and ideas there will also be book signings, workshops and exhibition openings to explore. The program features both free and ticketed events, and you can find out more via the WWAF website. Love exploring during the colder months? Check out our guide to the best winter getaways from Melbourne. 
The Bower

The Bower

5 out of 5 stars
It’s been 13 years since I last visited Byron Bay, and as I jumped on a plane in Melbourne – preemptively dressed in shorts and a cap – I was more than ready to get my dose of sun, sand and surf. Unfortunately the weather gods had other plans, and from the moment I touched down at Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, it was pouring. Luckily though, when you’re staying at The Bower, it doesn’t matter what conditions are like outside – this sleek and sophisticated New York-inspired accommodation opened in 2017 and delivers a guaranteed good time all year round. So despite the soggy start, I was given the warmest of welcomes at reception (a towel was even offered to help me dry off), quickly cementing my hunch that this was going to be a very special stay. Why stay at The Bower? There’s certainly no shortage of hotels, hostels, Airbnbs or holiday homes in Byron Bay, but The Bower makes a very convincing case as to why it should be top of your must-stay list. First of all, it’s giving laid-back glamour – think fancy finishes and a polished design aesthetic combined with lush palm trees and calming vibes. It’s the type of place where you can bring the whole family (yep, kids are welcome!) or escape to for a private getaway (honeymoon, anyone?). The Bower is also committed to sustainability, and aside from doing all the usual things – proper sorting and recycling of waste, solar power – the team also uses filtered water, requests environmental credentials from all suppliers and has insta

News (186)

Lewis Capaldi is touring Australia in 2025: Melbourne dates, prices, presale and more

Lewis Capaldi is touring Australia in 2025: Melbourne dates, prices, presale and more

It's the news Lewis Capaldi fans have been waiting a loooong time for: the chart-topping Scottish singer and master of tear-jerking ballads has just announced he's heading Down Under, with two massive shows scheduled for Melbourne. Incredibly, it’s been five years since the Capaldi last graced Aussie stages at Falls Festival, and two years since he heartbreakingly had to cancel his 2023 Australian tour due to the impact of his Tourette’s. But after an emotional surprise return at Glastonbury Festival over the weekend, the superstar has announced his long-awaited Aussie comeback. Brace your heartstrings, as the setlist is bound to hit you right in the feels with favourites like ‘Before You Go’, ‘Hold Me While You Wait’, ‘Bruises’, ‘Forget Me’, his latest release ‘Survive’ and, of course, the global smash hit, ‘Someone You Loved’ – which is the world’s fourth most streamed song in history. Want to cry-sing to these hits live? Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to Lewis Capaldi’s Melbourne shows. When is Lewis Capaldi going on his Melbourne, Australian tour 2025? We called it! After initially announcing only one show in Melbourne at Rod Laver Arena on Friday, December 12, Capaldi has just dropped the details for a second show on Saturday, December 13. The huge demand for tickets also saw him add an extra show in Sydney, and he'll also be performing in Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth When do Lewis Capaldi Melbourne tickets go on sale? General tickets for Lewis
Lorde has just announced that she's coming to Melbourne in 2025: dates, ticket prices, presale and everything you need to know

Lorde has just announced that she's coming to Melbourne in 2025: dates, ticket prices, presale and everything you need to know

It's shaping up to be a Lorde summer, with the alt-pop superstar dropping the tour announcement we've all been waiting for. Fresh off her incredible surprise set at Glastonbury, Lorde has confirmed the details for her Ultrasound World Tour, and you can bet it includes a show in Melbourne. Lorde’s 2026 homecoming visit will be her first time performing on New Zealand and Aussie soil since her 2023 Solar Power Tour. With a whole new album (the already-approaching-cult-status Virgin) now out in the open, we can't wait to hear 'What Was That', 'Favourite Daughter' and 'Clearblue' live for the first time. (Not to mention all her other hits.) Keen? Here’s everything you need to know about Lorde’s Melbourne show. When is the Lorde Melbourne show? So far, Lorde has confirmed the details for just one Melbourne show – she’s set to take over Rod Laver Arena on Saturday, February 21. If other artists of her calibre are anything to go by, we’re pretty certain this won’t be the only show – we’ll keep you posted if and when additional dates are announced (and you can stay in the loop over here). When do Lorde Melbourne tickets go on sale? General release tickets go on sale at 2pm local time on Friday, July 18 via the Frontier Touring website. Is there a Lorde pre-sale for her Melbourne show? Absolutely. Presale for American Express Card Members goes live at 1pm on Tuesday, July 15, and presale for Frontier Members will go live at 2pm on Thursday, July 17. How much are Lorde tickets? Ticket
Melbourne named the ninth most unaffordable city in the world to buy a home

Melbourne named the ninth most unaffordable city in the world to buy a home

As if the prospect of owning a property wasn't daunting enough, a global study has revealed the most unaffordable cities to buy a house – and we're saddened to reveal that Melbourne has landed at ninth on the list. But hey, that's better than seventh, which is where our city ranked last year. Gotta look at the (small) positives, right? For more than 20 years, the Demographia International Housing Affordability Report has analysed middle-income housing affordability across 95 major markets in eight countries, including Australia, Canada, China, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. To determine the rankings, the researchers at Chapman University compare median house prices to median household incomes, scoring each market on a scale from ‘affordable’ (3.0 or less) to ‘impossibly unaffordable’ (9.0 or more). For the first time ever, not a single one of the 95 housing markets assessed was classified as ‘affordable’. This news is even more grim for potential Aussie homebuyers, with Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth joining Melbourne among the 15 least affordable places to buy a home worldwide in 2025. While Melbourne's ranking of ninth, with a median multiple score of 9.7, is a shock, spare a thought for anyone hoping to buy a home in Sydney. Australia’s largest capital city is the second least affordable major property market in the world, with a staggering median multiple score of 13.8. That means the median house prices across the city
Two luxe Melbourne lodgings were just named among the best city hotels in Australia for 2025

Two luxe Melbourne lodgings were just named among the best city hotels in Australia for 2025

One of our fave things to do is play tourist in our own city – and a cheeky staycation is a great way to do that. After all, Melbourne is home to a suite of fabulous hotels, ranging from swanky luxury lodgings to quirky boutique spots with plenty of personality. And now, two of the city's top hotels have been honoured in Travel and Leisure's Luxury Awards, which recognises Australia's best hotels, pools and spas. Both the Ritz-Carlton Melbourne and the W Melbourne have landed on the list of Australia's best city hotels for 2025, coming in at second and sixth, respectively. If you've stayed at either of these hotels, you'll know they have dreamy sky-high pools, world-class drinking and dining options (hello, Atria and Curious), excellent service and beautiful rooms you'll wish you could move into. But it was Sydney's Capella that took out the top spot, with Travel and Leisure saying "this regal hotel has upped the luxury factor in Sydney’s heart".  That's not the only category the Ritz-Carlton starred in though – the bougie hotel also got a mention on the best hotel spas list (coming in second, with Crown's spa landing at seventh), while general manager Rachel Harman was named among the country's best.  Other local hotels to score a shout out include the InterContinental Sorrento and Jackalope, both located on the Mornington Peninsula, which took out seventh and eighth spots on the list of Australia's best country hotels and lodges for 2025. You can read the full list of awar
Mecca’s huge new Bourke Street flagship store finally has an opening date – and it’s very soon

Mecca’s huge new Bourke Street flagship store finally has an opening date – and it’s very soon

Hey, Beauty Loopers! You’re going to want to clear your schedule on this day: Friday, August 8. Yep, after months of speculation on the official opening date (not to mention years of planning, construction and unexpected delays), the sparkling jewel in Mecca’s crown is officially ready to open – and trust us when we say it’s been worth the wait. The launch of the massive Bourke Street flagship store will mark the beginning of a bold era in Mecca’s history, and set a new gold standard for experiential beauty retail. Spanning 4,000 square metres across three storeys (that’s three times the size of Sydney’s George Street store), it will play host to upwards of 200 leading beauty brands, 80-plus services and more than 300 team members. Oh, it’s also estimated that 50,000 people will walk through the doors weekly.  Specifically designed as an all-day destination where no two visits are the same, what awaits inside can only be described as the beauty playground of your wildest dreams. There’s the Perfumeria, aka an immersive fragrance gallery guided by scent sommeliers (yes, really); the Apothecary, where on-site naturopaths can advise on wellness issues relating to sleep and gut health; the Beauty Atelier, for hair, make-up and nail appointments; and Mecca Aesthetica, with seven private rooms for cosmetic consultations and clinical skin treatments like meso-needling and microdermabrasion. But wait, there’s more! The Meccaversity Auditorium is a world-first educational space that w
Usher has cancelled his Melbourne shows – here's what you need to know

Usher has cancelled his Melbourne shows – here's what you need to know

July 4 update: In news just in – and a huge blow to Aussie fans of 2000s era R'n'B – Usher has just cancelled the local leg of his Past Present Future Tour. Yes, you read that right – the 'Love in this Club' and 'OMG' singer was scheduled to perform six huge shows at Rod Laver Arena in November, along with another six at Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena in early December. Tickets for these performances (which only went on sale in May) have now been removed from sale, but there's no word yet from either Usher or tour promotors Live Nation on the reasoning behind the sudden cancellation.  As per Ticketek's website, all ticketholders will receive automatic refunds within 30 business days via the original payment method used. Well, safe to say he ain't got us fallin' in love anymore! (Sorry, we had to.) *** If you never got over the R'n'B era of the early 2000s, now's your time to shine. The man who is arguably the king of the genre is coming to Melbourne for a run of arena shows – yes, the one and only Usher is gracing us with his presence. OMG!  As part of his Past Present Future world tour, Usher has announced 12 (!!!) Aussie shows in Melbourne and Sydney later this year. It's a long-awaited return Down Under for the 'Love in this Club' singer, who hasn't performed on our shores since his first solo headline tour, the OMG tour, in 2011. All we can say is, yeah! The tour is essentially a victory lap for the iconic artist, who is performing in celebration of his incredible 30-year ca
This swish, award-winning bathhouse has finally opened right off Melbourne's Chapel Street

This swish, award-winning bathhouse has finally opened right off Melbourne's Chapel Street

It's no secret that Melburnians love recreational bathing. Whether it be at one of our city's many bathhouses and spas or at world-class hot springs resorts across the state, we love feeling a little luxe and taking a relaxing dip. So as you can imagine, when we heard that Melbourne is gaining another swanky bathhouse, we were very excited.  The award-winning Soak Bathhouse has just opened its latest iteration in the heart of South Yarra. The lush oasis offers mineral bathing in huge pools, hot spas, a dry cedarwood sauna, a steam room and cold plunge pools, all nestled amongst leafy greenery. Plus, you can also treat yo' self to additional wellness treatments like infrared saunas, LED facials and full-body massages. We can feel the tension melting away from our shoulders already.  Soak has already opened two bathhouses in Brisbane and the Gold Coast (where it was awarded the Best of Queensland Experience Award by Tourism Queensland), along with another one in Alexandria in Sydney. The Melbourne location is one of the largest bathhouses yet, spanning 700 square metres.  Photograph: Supplied Soak Bathhouse owner Niki Dean said with the Melbourne venue located just behind Chapel Street, it will offer a relaxing oasis to escape the busy city.  “Our goal is to provide a space where people can come together, relax and build meaningful connections,” says Dean. “Whether it’s a solo visit to unwind after a long day or a social outing with friends, Soak Bathhouse offers a versatile
Melbourne is the second most diverse and inclusive city in the world, according to locals

Melbourne is the second most diverse and inclusive city in the world, according to locals

Here at Time Out Melbourne, it’s easy to assume that our beloved city is a friendly space where diversity and inclusivity are welcomed. After all, Melbourne is a thriving metropolis that prides itself on being highly liveable, with cool neighbourhoods and streets that are home to various cuisines, communities and cultures.  But sometimes it’s good to get that confirmation from others, and off the back of Time Out’s huge annual survey, we can reveal that locals themselves actually consider Melbourne the second most diverse and inclusive city in the whole world. The survey asked 18,500 city-dwellers what they think of their hometown’s transport, food, nightlife, green spaces and more. But all of this is pointless if people don’t actually feel welcome, so we also wanted to find out whether they would describe their city as ‘diverse’ and ‘inclusive’ too. Melburnians responded in an overwhelmingly positive fashion, with 77 per cent of people agreeing with the sentiment. The city that (just!) nabbed the crown ahead of Melbourne was London, with 78 per cent of locals deeming the UK capital diverse and inclusive. And look, we get it – with a long history as a hub of immigration and around 300 languages spoken, it’s a true representation of what a modern, multicultural city looks like.  Rounding out the rest of the top five were Brighton (also in the UK) and New York City tied for third, followed by Los Angeles and Chicago, respectively.  So what are some of the factors that make our
Katy Perry at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena: start time, set list, tickets and everything you need to know

Katy Perry at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena: start time, set list, tickets and everything you need to know

Update June 12: From stage crashers to a mid-set Tim Tam break, there's no denying Katy Perry's first few Aussie shows have been chaotic in the best way possible. With one performance already down in Melbourne, she's gearing up for three in a row – if you've got tickets, prepare for anything! Whether you love her or not, there's no denying that Katy Perry has a huge Australian fanbase – after all, it's no easy feat to sell out four shows at Rod Laver Arena alone. And after wowing the crowd at the MCG as part of last year's AFL Grand Final half-time show (where she performed with local legend Tina Arena), Perry is back with her first major tour in seven years. The Lifetimes Tour is every Katy Cat's chance to see the award-winning pop star live in a show that includes everything from aerial acrobatics and AI intelligence to lightsaber battles and dance breaks. Get ready to roar Melbourne, here's everything you need to know if you're heading along to see Katy Perry. When is Katy Perry in Melbourne? Perry kicked off her Aussie tour in Sydney on Wednesday, June 4. She's set to perform at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena on June 7, 12, 13 and 14, with more shows to come in Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. All up, Perry is performing 15 sold-out gigs across the country. Who is Katy Perry’s support act in Melbourne? Joining Perry as her support act for the Australian leg of the Lifetimes Tour is Kinder – a duo from Maitland comprising sisters Briony and Savannah Osei. The Ghanaian-A
Kendrick Lamar at Melbourne's AAMI Park: presale, ticket prices and all the details

Kendrick Lamar at Melbourne's AAMI Park: presale, ticket prices and all the details

It's safe to say we all lost our collective minds when Kendrick Lamar was announced as the headline act for Spilt Milk (alongside Doechii, Dominic Fike and Schoolboy Q), but when tickets sold out immediately, many of us who missed out were left devastated. Thankfully, the multi-Grammy Award-winning rapper heard the cries of local fans and has just confirmed he'll be performing a massive show in December.  The Grand National Tour will take over Melbourne’s AAMI Park on Wednesday, December 3 – and we could not be more excited. Here’s everything we know so far.  When is Kendrick Lamar in Melbourne? The beloved artist will be bringing his Grand National Tour to AAMI Park on Wednesday, December 3 – it will be the first time he’s been in the Melbourne since his 2022 The Big Steppers Tour. When do Kendrick Lamar Melbourne tickets go on sale? The general sale kicks off at 11am on Monday, June 16 via Ticketek. Is there a Kendrick Lamar presale for his Melbourne show? For an icon like Lamar, you better believe it! The Vodafone presale goes live on Thursday, June 12 at 11am. Not a Vodafone customer? Several other presales go live on Friday, June 13 at 9am, with options for Visa holders, Live Nation members and My Ticketek members. How much do Kendrick Lamar tickets cost? Start rustling those money trees! Exact ticket prices are yet to be released, but we don’t expect them to come cheap. Real committed Kenfolk can get in on the VIP packages – which include premium reserved seats and VIP
This boutique Melbourne hotel was just honoured with a major style and design award

This boutique Melbourne hotel was just honoured with a major style and design award

Hands up if the name La Liste rings a bell? You may recognise it as the Paris-based restaurant ranking guide that unveils an annual list of its top 1,000 restaurants – last year, it crowned Melbourne's very own fine diner Vue de Monde as the best restaurant in Australia (and fifth in the whole world). Now La Liste is back with a hotly anticipated 2025 guide to the most outstanding hotels around the globe. And you may be surprised to hear that a new boutique accommodation in Fitzroy has been awarded a very special accolade. The StandardX – an uber-cool, industrial-style venue that we reviewed in November 2024 – is among just five hotels to receive the prestigious Style and Design Award. These are hotels that have been either "launched or refurbished with outstanding design". La Liste called the StandardX "arty, bold and unfiltered", and it shared the honour with Maison Heler Metz in France, ÖÖD Hekla Horizon in Iceland, Reschio Hotel in Italy and Ulaman Eco Luxury Resort in Indonesia.  Photograph: Supplied The hotel only opened in August 2024, and is the first StandardX iteration from famed hotel chain the Standard. Described as "the rebellious younger sibling", it boasts 125 rooms over eight floors, as well as an all-day Thai street food-inspired restaurant called Bang, a rooftop bar with panoramic city views and a retail offering. Led by Melbourne-based interior design firm Hecker Guthrie, the styling elements blend the grittiness of Fitzroy with modern comforts – think ru
Melbourne is the fifth best city in the world for green space and access to nature

Melbourne is the fifth best city in the world for green space and access to nature

Hot on the heels of news that the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne has been named among the world's top ten gardens, comes the big reveal that Melbourne has been ranked the fifth greenest city in a global list compiled by Time Out. Excuse us while we adjust our (flower) crown.  It shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone who's had the pleasure of strolling through our city's many lush parks and gardens. From the grand beauty of the Royal Botanic Gardens to the peaceful tranquility of Fitzroy Gardens – and let's not forget the city's biggest bushland reserve, Yarra Bend Park – we Melburnians really are spoiled when it comes to easy access to nature. And have you even done Melbourne right if you haven't had a picnic and cheeky bev with mates in Eddy Gardens? That's right – so much of our socialising takes place in the city's green spaces.   Photograph: Visit Victoria   To determine the rankings, Time Out quizzed 18,500 locals across the planet about their green spaces and the access they have to nature. The 20 that made the list had the highest share of ‘good’ or ‘amazing’ ratings. Melbourne really did knock it out of the park, receiving an 86 per cent positive rating that saw it share fifth spot with Austin and Edinburgh. Dubbed the ‘city of eternal spring’, Medellín in Colombia ranks as the top city for green thumbs and nature lovers, where a whopping 92 per cent of locals positively rated its green spaces and access to nature. Boston claims second place with 88 per cent ‘go