Leah Glynn

It's officially bun szn, baby! What’s not to love about a doughy, spicy, fruity, buttery ball of joy, warmed to perfection in the toaster or the microwave (controversial, we know!), and slathered liberally with salted butter? Melbourne has a wealth of brilliant bakers, all of whom have been elbow-deep in flour, sugar and spice, perfecting their recipes for Easter this year. We’ve rounded up our favourite floury heroes and where to get them below. Hop to it! 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? We've got you covered with the best restaurants in Melbourne right now

March 2026: If you love "did they really just say that?” humour, there's no way you can miss 'The Book of Mormon', which has returned to Her Majesty's Theatre. Over at Melbourne Theatre Company, 'West Gate' offers a haunting deep dive into Australia’s worst industrial disaster. Our reviewer called it "genuinely frightening". Meanwhile, Theatre Works is also exploring another one of Australia's darkest days, with 'Beyond the Neck' – a show that reckons with the deep wounds that remain following the Port Arthur massacre. 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 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. Want something else to do this month? Check out our guide to the city's best exhibitions.

Australia’s wildlife is one of its biggest drawcards – and for many travellers, seeing iconic animals up close is an experience you simply can’t skip. We totally get it – you can't really beat seeing a koala joey in the flesh by much.  In this guide to the best zoos and wildlife parks in Australia, we’ve rounded up top-rated, ethical zoos and wildlife sanctuaries where you can see both native and exotic animals. Each location has been selected for its strong commitment to animal welfare, conservation efforts and work protecting endangered species, both in captivity and in the wild. Because getting up close with these wondrous creatures isn’t just unforgettable – it's a powerful reminder of why protecting Australia's wildlife is more important now than ever.  Editor's favourite zoos and wildlife parks in Australia: 🐊 Best for families: Australia Zoo, QLD 🐨 Best wildlife park: Cleland Wildlife Park, SA 🦘 Best natural animal reserve: Kangaroo Island, SA 🦘 Where to see kangaroos and koalas in Australia🐳 Where to go whale watching in Australia 🐧 Where to go birdwatching in Australia

There are two types of Melburnians: those who have a signature dish and those who are one burnt risotto away from giving up on cooking entirely. Luckily, in a city obsessed with good food, help is never far away. From crimping dumplings with expert hands to mastering petite  French pastries or spice-laden curries, Melbourne’s cooking classes turn kitchen chaos into something delicious. Whether you’re a total novice or just looking to shake up your weeknight repertoire, these hands-on classes range from those led by professional chefs to those run by great home cooks who can share a thing or two about creating delicious dishes for the dinner table. Expect to cook, taste, laugh and maybe even impress yourself. 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? Browse our guide to Melbourne's best restaurants right now.  

Choosing the right hotel in Melbourne can be an almighty task. With so many incredible stays to choose between – from super modern sky-high towers to charming historic gems – it can be an overwhelming challenge to decide which one is right for you.Every traveller has their preference, but to make the job of deciding a little easier, our team of local experts have hotel hopped their way around the city to bring you our guide to the very best hotels in Melbourne. Many of the stays included in the list are favourites of Time Out Melbourne Editor Leah Glynn, with our Travel and Hotels Editor Winnie Stubbs chiming in and checking the guide to make sure it’s up to scratch.Whether you’re looking for a playful stay right in the CBD action (W Hotel, we’re looking at you) or somewhere more boutique in Melbourne’s buzzy Inner North (Standard X), we’ve got your back. Read on for our guide to the best hotels 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. RECOMMENDED:  These are the best places to go camping near MelbourneAnd these are our favourite glamping sites in VictoriaTime 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 help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Easter is just around the corner – and so also are the autumn school holidays. The burning question: how do you keep the kids busy for two whole weeks – without going crazy yourself? As luck would have it, we've just rounded up all the coolest kid-friendly events, festivals, shows and activities to ensure that you never have to hear the kids wail, "I'm borrrred". If and when the sun comes out to play, grab your chance to visit some of Melbourne's best playgrounds and then swing by the best kid-friendly pubs in Melbourne – for when Mummy and Daddy need a break. You're welcome. 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 fun? Here's everything happening around Melbourne this weekend. 

For the past eight years, we’ve made it our mission to scope out the coolest pockets of the world’s greatest cities in order to create our definitive annual ranking. The places where stuff like nightlife, art, culture, and affordable food and drink can be found on every corner and down every backstreet. Where diversity is championed and independent businesses thrive, from old-school boltholes to the newest avant-garde art space. Put simply, the world’s coolest neighbourhoods are places that represent the soul of our cities, while maintaining their own unique local character that draws people in to live, work and play. So, what are the neighbourhoods that fit the bill this year? To find out, we asked our network of writers and editors across a breadth of cities to nominate the vibiest district in their hometown right now. We then ranked every neighbourhood against criteria including culture, community, liveability, nightlife, food and drink, street life and that hard-to-define sense of ‘nowness’.  On our list this year, you’ll find everything from homely, village-like enclaves with tight-knit communities to revitalised city-centre hubs and formerly dormant, industrial areas transformed into creative districts. Many are underrated spots that sit in the shadow of their commercialised counterparts; others have become unexpected culinary hotspots or magnets for the city’s artists, writers and activists. What they all have in common is a DIY spirit – and an unshakeable proclivity f

Planning a trip Down Under? You've come to the right place. For almost 60 years, Time Out has been inspiring people to get off the couch and experience the very best of cities worldwide – and now we're here to do the same for Australia. You might know Australia for its iconic landmarks and laid-back culture, but there's so much more to experience beyond kissing koalas and yelling ‘g’day mate’. Our team (including Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley) have curated the ultimate Australia bucket list, covering must-see attractions, experiences, events and landmarks across the country. Whether you’re chasing art and nightlife in coastal cities, spotting fairy penguins on secluded beaches or kayaking at sunrise on Sydney Harbour, there’s something here for every kind of traveller. Here's your guide to the best things to do in Australia. Editors must do activities in Australia: ⭐️ Best city landmark: BridgeClimb, NSW 🖼️ Best for culture: MONA, TAS 🍷 Best food and drink: Barossa Valley, SA 🌊 Best outdoor adventure: Whitehaven Beach, QLD 🐿️ Best wildlife encounter: Rottnest Island, WA Jump to list: Landmarks | Culture | Food & Drink | Outdoors | Wildlife 🇦🇺 The top tourist attractions in Australia🌊 The best beaches in Australia

It's the weekend, baby! You made it! To celebrate, we've gathered all the hottest festivals, shows, exhibitions and openings in one place – you're welcome.    It's the funniest time of the year, because the Melbourne International Comedy Festival is finally here! You can laugh until your abs hurt as you catch an incredible line-up of homegrown and international acts – the shenanigans are happening until April 19. Keen green thumbs (or anyone aspiring to get their hands dirty) won't want to miss the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show – aka the largest horticultural event in the Southern Hemisphere. Expect incredible landscape designs, floral installations, workshops and plenty more.  Love ricotta? Who doesn't! You can celebrate the beloved Italian cheese at That's Amore's annual Ricotta Festival, which is back for its sixth year. There'll be live entertainment, generous tastings and plenty of the cheesy good stuff. Also kicking off this weekend is the Australian Sand Sculpting Championships. Head down to the Frankston Waterfront to discover a magical open-air gallery of sand and storytelling – this year's theme is ‘The Enchanted Realm’ so think dragons, castles and fairytale settings. 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 th

Social calendar looking a bit empty? Don't worry, we've got you. There's always something happening in Melbourne, and this week is no different – so let's dive right in!     If you thought things were starting to calm down in Melbourne, brace yourself, because Mad March still has a few tricks up its sleeve! Starting with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival – which is celebrating its 40th birthday this year and is the third largest comedy festival in the world. From stand-up and sketch to improv and musical comedy, this year’s line-up is stacked with hilarious heavyweights. The largest horticultural event in the Southern Hemisphere is also returning, with the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show kicking off on March 25. It's set to provide plenty of inspo for keen green thumbs. Speaking of floral fiestas, the Tesselaar KaBloom Festival has officially begun, and it's your chance to see more than one million flowers in full bloom. Over at Bunjil Place, The Offbeat Sari has just opened. This beautiful exhibition is making its Australian debut, and it explores how the 5,000-year-old sari is being reimagined today through everything from street style to couture. Another excellent exhibition to just open is Mother at the NGV. It's free to enter, and brings together more than 200 historical and contemporary works to examine how the experience of being, becoming and relating to motherhood has been imagined across cultures, generations and media. When in doubt though,

Right now, it feels like a great time to celebrate our cities. What cities do best is bring people together – everything we love about urban life, from the galleries and bars to the neighbourhood parks, exists thanks to the communities that make it all happen.  That’s why, every year, we raise a toast to the city with our definitive annual ranking, created on the back of a comprehensive survey of city-dwellers worldwide. Our survey asks not only what people love about their cities – the food scene and nightlife, the shops and museums, the parks and people – but also how it feels to live there. We asked you about happiness, affordability and quality of life, among a variety of other criteria. And, in order to dig deeper into the everyday lives of locals, this year we expanded our survey to cover aspects like love, romance and community feel. Time Out’s Best Cities with Intrepid Travel spotlights the destinations that offer the best of both worlds: an endlessly exciting catalogue of reasons to visit, as well as all the good stuff that makes a place feel like home. The 50 cities that made the list this year did so thanks to the insights of more than 24,000 people across 150 cities worldwide. To determine the final Best Cities ranking for 2026, we combined their thousands of responses with the votes of more than 100 Time Out city experts. Then we tapped up our network of local writers to tell us exactly what makes their city worth a visit right now. The result? A rundown of the m

Looking to live it up on your next Aussie getaway? We’ve got you covered. Australia is packed with standout accommodation, from new boutique stays with heated infinity pools to revamped classics boasting five-star rooftop bars and close proximity to our country's best attractions. But with so many options, finding the best hotels in Australia can feel a bit overwhelming. That's where we come in. Our expert team of travel writers, including Time Out Australia's Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley, have stayed at hotels across every state and territory to bring you this ultimate guide to the best hotels in Australia. Whether you’re a local looking for a gram-worthy staycation or a tourist eager to be in the heart of the action, these are the top places to stay in Australia right now. Editors' favourite hotels in Australia: 😱 Best new hotel: Mondrian Gold Coast, QLD ⭐️ Best hidden gem: COMO The Treasury, WA 🌊 Best bucket-list hotel: InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, QLD Sydney | Byron Bay | Perth | Melbourne | Gold Coast | Brisbane | Adelaide | Hobart ☀️ Australia’s most incredible resorts🤩 The best things to do Down Under🌏 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 you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Calling all bookworms, literature lovers and BookTok obsessives: the Melbourne Writers Festival (MWF) line-up has just been unveiled. 2026's program reads like a list of the crème de la crème of the 2026 literary world, featuring New York Times best-selling authors, Booker Prize standouts, first-timers and MWF exclusives, with a stellar cast coming together to celebrate the iconic festival's 40th anniversary.  The festival will spread big bookish energy across the city and surrounds via four days of workshops, talks, events and panels, running from May 7-10. This time around, the central theme of the program is 'Visions and Revisions' – which will explore the ideas that matter, futures we imagine, the strange stories we all carry, and the particular revisions, both personal and collective, that work to define us. International highlights include former NZ prime minister and all-round fan favourite, Jacinda Ardern, international bestseller R.F Kuang (Yellowface and Babel), recent Booker prize winner David Szalay (Flesh) and acclaimed Booker winner Yann Martel, whose known worldwide for his beloved book, The Life of Pi.  On the local front, expect to see journalist and human rights advocate Antoniette Latouff present 'Women who Win', alongside activist and former Australian of the Year, Grace Tame. We'll also see Stephanie Alexander (aka, the queen of Australian homestyle cooking) in conversation with beloved author and philanthropist Alice Zaslavsky, in a Mother's Day convo ab

Wednesday nights in Melbourne are known for one thing and one thing only: Queen Victoria Market’s legendary Night Market. With the summer iteration officially finished for the season, Queen Vic has announced it will be bringing back its insanely popular Asian night market to tide you over until the winter version takes over during the chilly season. The Hawker 88 Night Market brings Asian tastes, sights and sounds to Queen Vic’s sheds. Running every Wednesday night from April 8 until May 6, a tasty variety of stalls and trucks will be set up to sell authentic street food direct from China, Vietnam, Korea, India, Malaysia, Japan and beyond.  There's a line-up of more than 25 vendors selling tasty street eats like chicken and beef satay, handmade gyoza, spicy laksa bowls, pad see ew, moreish popcorn fried chicken, crispy wonton tacos, matchamisu and even durian (if you dare!). Quench your thirst at The Lucky Horse Bar with an Iced Watermelon Shochu or a non-alcoholic Lychee Lemonade. Across the five-week stint there will also be lion dances, KPop Demon Hunters performances, martial arts demonstrations, taiko drumming, Squid Game-inspired challenges, Bollywood dance workshops and a closing-night cosplay parade. There's even a Korean-style photobooth, vintage Japanese kimonos and souvenirs like custom keychains, bags and 3D printed toys to browse and buy.  Each Wednesday brings a distinct cultural focus. April 8 is Pan-Asian Night with lion dances; April 15 showcases the flavour

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here. The fertile coastal landscape of the Mornington Peninsula has long been a breeding ground for excellent dining spots, both fancy and casual (hello, Tedesca Osteria, Many Little and Red Gum BBQ – to name a few). And now, we can add a newish name to that list: Barragunda Dining. Located on 400 hectares of farmland and sprawling native bush that forms Barragunda Estate, the property is owned by the Morris family, who, via their foundation, direct all profits made from the restaurant back into work that supports improvements and innovations in Australia’s food systems.  And really, that’s what the ethos is all about at Barragunda: focusing on sustainable agricultural practices that encourage regeneration, while creating a hyper-local culinary experience that feels rooted in place. When all these elements come together, it makes for one inspiring and unforgettable meal. The vibe Courtesy of David Dubois Architecture, Barragunda’s former farm shed has been transformed into a warm 40-seat restaurant that feels especially welcoming on an unseasonably grey and drizzly day in March. A large timber bar and shelves lined with jars of pickled veg and fermented fruit welcome guests, before the open kitchen and light-filled dining room unfurl as you walk further into the cat

Melbourne's favourite illuminated event is back again in 2026, with 15 new and returning dazzling light installations to meander through in wonderment. From June 12 to August 2, take a nighttime stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens and experience luminous pathways, lit-up tree canopies, soothing soundscapes and more sparkly sights. This year, highlights of the 2.1-kilometre trail are set to be the Australian premier of Bifröst by French studio Pitaya, which boasts a 20-arch tunnel of flowing light that you can walk through; and Firefly Field by Dutch studio TOER, where 200 glowing points of light will dart like fairies above the grass. Returning faves include a reimagined 30-metre Winter Cathedral, plus the epic Fire Garden installation, which will include a circular spiral of 150 candles. Plus, there's plenty more to discover by more local and international artists alike.  Most importantly, you'll also be able to grab a bite to eat and warming drinks, like hot chocolate and mulled wine, at the Welcome Zone or dotted along the trail. If you ask us, Melbourne is at its best in winter and events like Lightscape (which now holds two consecutive Gold wins at the Victorian Tourism Awards), where you can rug up and join friends for a magical experience, are a big reason why. Adult tickets start at $36 and are available through Ticketek – be quick as they tend to go fast.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight t

The Makers and Shakers Market is back in 2026 to celebrate its 10th birthday. Showcasing a host of established and emerging designers at Carlton's Royal Exhibition Building, it's taking place April 18 and 19. So, bring your bags and nana trolleys, because this is a great opportunity to stock up on one-of-a-kind presents while also supporting local artists and creatives.  The curated event will feature more than 185 stalls run by independent Melbourne makers selling homewares, food and drink, art, accessories, ethical fashion, beauty products and more. It's also the only local makers market where the stallholders sell 100 per cent Australian-made products. There will also be a kids' zone with activities and a free Mother’s Day craft area, onsite bars and food stalls with interesting sips and dips, plus crafty workshops to get those creative juices flowing. Adult tickets are $6 and kids under 12 enter for free. You can pre-purchase tickets via 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. RECOMMENDED: Want more? These are the best things to do in Melbourne this week.   

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here. If you follow the line of cool kids down the busy Brunswick East end of Lygon Street, chances are they’ll lead you straight to Times New Roman. The sister venue of Fitzroy North’s Good Times – aka the northside’s favourite purveyor of cheap pasta and late-night feasting – this newish joint has quickly built up a cult following of its own, thanks in no small part to bowls of the good stuff being available from just $6.66 (yes, really!). With owners Chelsea Davis and Jarrod Agatanovic (who met at Good Times) at the helm, Times New Roman is serving up affordable Italian that would make Nonna proud – with a side of Cheezels, of course. The vibe With a 5pm booking locked in (in my defence, I was heading to see Wuthering Heights at 7.30pm – but also, early dinners for the win!), I wasn’t sure the vibes would be pumping upon arrival. But within half an hour of sitting down in a two-seater booth, this charming spot has filled up entirely with a jovial mix of patrons spanning couples on date nights, friend groups and gals fuelling up before a night on the town. I notice that the decor is immediately more elevated than the casual, hodge-podge charm of Good Times. There’s dark wood panelling on the walls, a mix of warm sconce lights (some with cute little cherub figurin

Calling all fashionistas! On March 21 and 22, the National Trust's beloved annual vintage sale is returning to the Abbotsford Convent. This year, the sale will be taking place at the massive Magdalen Laundry. You'll be able to peruse a huge selection of vintage and pre-loved designer clothing and accessories – in the past, brands like Armani, Alexander McQueen, Diane von Fürstenberg and Marimekko have been up for grabs. A lot of household linen, furnishings, dress fabrics, shoes, bags, jewellery and even haberdashery will also be on offer. New stock will be released on the Sunday morning (perfect if you’re planning a second visit) and from 3-5pm that afternoon you will also be able to take 50 per cent off all remaining items. Plus, if you're a member, you can score early access from 9-10am each day – you can join up here when allocations open in early March. Bring a gold coin donation for entry and prepare to refresh your wardrobe with fun new designer finds for a fraction of the price. Best of all, proceeds from the sale support the work of the National Trust in conserving our state's cultural and built heritage. Donations are also accepted in the lead-up to the event, so if you have some quality items you'd like to offload in the name of a good cause, now's your chance. For more information on donating and the event, visit the website here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Want more shop

It's your last chance to power up, unlock that final level and beat the big boss, because ACMI's Game Worlds is about to be clocked (aka it's finishing up soon). So don't let it be game over before you get a chance to enter this immersive, fully playable exhibition. Perfect for fans of The Sims, Neopets or World of Warcraft, this blockbuster celebration of video games will transport you into the worlds of more than 30 iconic titles, including Final Fantasy XIV Online, Minecraft, Doom and Stardew Valley. Also featured are classics like Maze War and Zork, fan faves with cult followings like The Elder Scrolls Online, and new releases like Guardian Maia. Spanning games from the 1970s right through to this year, you'll be able to check out rare concept art, original design materials, early hands-on protoypes and so much more. There are 44 fully playable experiences (think Celeste speedruns on two huge screens), and four new microgames by emerging and established Aussie game developers have been specially commissioned for the exhibition.   “Our exhibition honours the real-life experiences that are made possible by and through videogames, highlighting the players and developers – and stories that bring videogame worlds to life,” said co-curators Bethan Johnson and Jini Maxwell. Want to take a part of the exhibition home with you? There's limited-edition merch and exclusive books available for purchase at the ACMI shop. Game Worlds is now on at ACMI until March 29. For more informa

When it comes to ice cream, are you a classic chocolate-and-vanilla type of person, or are you game for more experimental flavours? (Hello, caramelised fig blue cheese mascarpone – yes, really!) Whatever you fancy, the annual Ice Cream Festival has something tasty for you.  The famous Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery, along with its sister venues on the Great Ocean Road and the Mornington Peninsula, are hosting the annual scoop-a-thon from February 11-22. And in news that is sure to have you salivating, 10 new flavours will be dropping every four days – so you're gonna want to go back for seconds (and maybe even thirds). The line-up of flavours is set to include coconut limoncello margarita, pistachio tiramisu and matcha blueberry. Yum! There will also be old-school choc tops, gluten-free, vegan and no added sugar serve options available, so no one misses out on the fun. And that's not all... true ice cream aficionados can partake in a 45-minute tasting session, during which you'll sample the one-off flavours and make very own ice cream chocolate sauce. Bookings for these workshops are essential, and cost $28. There will also be a DIY scoop lab and if you enter the Guess the Flavour competition, you'll be in the running to win 12 of your favourite flavours to enjoy in take home tubs – yes please! Entry to the festival is free, with mega scoops starting from $6.75. For more information, head to the website. Craving more icy treats? These are the best ice cream and ge

Prosecco: refreshing, versatile, bubbly. It's a winning combo. Melburnians will once again be able to indulge their love of sparkling wine when the Prosecco Festival takes over the Abbotsford Convent on Saturday, February 28. Returning for its ninth year, the event will feature more than 50 international and homegrown bubbles from coveted brands. These include Aussie superstars like Dal Zotto Wines, Brown Brothers, Tar and Roses, De Bortoli and Innocent Bystander, plus Italian heavyhitters like Babo, Bellusi and Cipriani Bellini – along with loads more.  If you're sober curious or the allocated deso driver, Edenvale is one of the official partners and will have you sorted with a range of alcohol-free vinos and cocktails. Plus, all the growers, makers and importers will be on-site to chat about their wine. And if you want to get particuarly festive, you're in luck. Hydrodol will be on the ground all day, providing recovery 'wallets' that will be stacked with their suite of pre-drink vitamin and rehydration products. But it's not all about the bubbles. To line your stomach there will be sweet and savoury treats from local vendors like Abruzzo Lab (one of our fave street food eats around Melbourne), Taste of Puglia and Arancini Art. Vegetarian and gluten-free options will also be available. You can even book in for a VIP masterclass with Melissa Brauer (aka the Prosecco Queen and founder of the event), which will teach you everything there is to know about the effervescent tippl

Werribee Open Range Zoo is bringing back its Sunset Safari for an eighth season in 2026, inviting visitors to embark on an immersive safari adventure at dusk when the animals tend to be at their most active.  Every Saturday until February 21, visitors can hop on a bus at the zoo and watch as the summer sun sets and illuminates the open range. You'll get to witness majestic animals like zebras, ostriches, giraffes, rhinos and lions as they roam the savannah, and learn from zoo guides about efforts to protect them from endangerment and extinction. And for the first time ever, you'll be able to explore the waterhole and incredible elephant trail (which only opened last year) after hours when everyone else goes home. In addition to the after-hours safari tour, you can also explore the walking trails (among meerkats, monkeys and wild dogs) at dusk and catch live performances of drums, song and dance. Food and beverage options include an African-inspired barbecue, à la carte dining and cocktails at the Elephant Terrace (these are all sold separately). The Sunset Safari experience runs from 5.30pm to 9pm on Saturday nights, and costs $62 for adults and $32 for children. Head to the Zoos Victoria website to purchase your tickets.  Looking for more fun in the city? Here's our round-up of what's on in Melbourne this weekend.

It's officially that time of year again when the Moonlight Cinema returns to Melbourne for the summer. There's just something special about snuggling into a bean bag and catching a film under the stars in the Royal Botanic Gardens – with an ice cream or a wine in hand, of course.  Australia's favourite outdoor cinema has dropped its summer screening schedule, with tons of  blockbusters, nostalgic favourites and comedies on the program. February and March highlights include new releases like Wuthering Heights, Hamnet, Marty Supreme and a special screening of Charli xcx’s mockumentary The Moment. Those looking to splurge can opt for Singapore Airlines' Gold Grass that comes with prime viewing, express entry and food and drinks delivered to your seat. Anothere cool option is the Connoisseur Lounge ticket that includes a bean bed plus a yum Connoisseur ice cream. And did you know the Moonlight Cinema is pooch friendly? For the first time ever you'll also be able to order a doggie bag meal from the food menu thanks to Lyka. Doggy date night, anyone? Screenings kick off at sundown, so bring your picnic rug, your snacks and your friends. Tickets are now available via the website. Want more fun in the sun? Here are the best things to do in Melbourne this December.

The Australian Open. The Formula One Grand Prix. The AFL Grand Final. The Boxing Day Test. Melbourne has long been known as Australia’s sporting capital, but in case you needed further proof, here it is: this year, the city will play host to Australia’s first-ever regular season NFL game, as part of a massive multi-year deal. It also makes Melbourne the first city in the world to host an international tennis Grand Slam, a Formula One Grand Prix and an NFL Regular Season game. Further proof this really is the best city in the world. The match will feature the Los Angeles Rams as the ‘home’ team, with the San Francisco 49ers confirmed as the opposition. The game will be played at the MCG – aka the sporting heartland of Melbourne – with kick-off at 10.35am on September 11, 2026.  “It’s a win for jobs, a win for businesses and a win for fans who will get to see American Football played in the best stadium in the world,” said premier Jacinta Allan.  Supplied: Office of the premier of Victoria NFL, also known as American Football, is the USA’s most popular sport. That means footage of Melbourne as the host city will be beamed live to the almost 20 million Americans who tune into each game (not to mention the millions more who watch from across the globe). The 49ers are one of the NFL’s most illustrious franchises, having won the Super Bowl five times. Best of all, they share an intense rivalry with the Rams, which is sure to make the Melbourne match-up a hugely important – and

Update Monday, March 23: The latest alert from the Australian Space Weather Forecasting Centre (ASWFC) today confirms a geomagnetic storm is still in progress. According to the alert, the "Aurora may be observed during local nighttime hours in good observing conditions at high altitudes." The best chance to spot the lights is 60 to 75 minutes after sunset, with likely spotting in Tasmania and Victoria, plus parts of South Australia, Western Australia, the ACT and NSW, if skies are clear. On the weekend, Lady Aurora put on a dazzling show, with the Southern Lights spotted everywhere from Horsham and Wodonga in Victoria to the Tasman Peninsula, Kangaroo Island and the NSW Southern Highlands.Here’s everything you need to know about seeing the Southern Lights from Victoria. Where in the world can you see the Aurora? Bright, beautiful and bedazzling, the Aurora Borealis is a big-ticket bucket list item for pretty much everyone on Earth. Only those who have witnessed the Northern Lights with their naked eyes can truly understand its ethereal magic. But you don’t need to fork out on a ticket to Scandinavia to see the dramatic natural light display IRL. Australia has its very own version, called the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights – and last year was one of the brightest display in 20 years. Here’s everything you need to know about seeing the Aurora Australis in Australia. Will the Aurora Australis be visible tonight from Victoria? Australia’s first big Aurora Australis of the se

Big news! Time Out's 2026 ranking of the best cities in the world has just dropped, and Melbourne – yes, our Melbourne – has jumped three places (from fourth in 2025) to take out the number one spot. Cue the applause, fireworks and confetti, stat!  It's the first time ever that an Australian city has topped the annual list, with Melbourne previously peaking in second spot a decade ago in 2016. And our humble little metropolis outshone some heavyweights on the way to the top this year, beating out global powerhouses Shanghai, Edinburgh, London and New York, which rounded out the top five.  Even better, it's a celebration all round for Australia, with Sydney ranking 21st and Adelaide coming in at number 29. And while we can't promise we won't gloat about this for the next year (sorry, Sydney!), it's still an poignant reminder that Australia really is an exceptional places to live, visit and explore. Photograph: Supplied | Visit Victoria So, how was this ranking compiled? Time Out surveyed more than 24,000 locals in 42 languages about where they live. These questions covered topics that included everything from food, nightlife and culture to affordability, happiness and the overall city vibe. A panel of more than 100 Time Out city experts from around the world were also asked to name the most exciting cities in the world right now. All data from 44 different criteria was combined to create the ranking. Melbourne scored a strong overall ‘city rating’ as well as high ‘happiness

There's nothing we love more than planning a holiday. But do you ever stop to think about the reasons why you travel? Of course, there's the usual: gain new life experiences, learn about different cultures, create lasting memories with loved ones. But there's also the big bucket list moments – like major sporting events – that drive a desire to see the world. Because let's be real, who hasn't dreamed of one day attending Wimbledon, the Super Bowl, or even the Olympics?  Yep, when you start to think about it, sports really do seem to be emerging as a major player in tourism world. And Melbourne – home to the Australian Open, AFL Grand Final, Boxing Day Test, the F1 Australian Grand Prix and an upcoming regular-season NFL game – is undoubtedly at the centre of it. A recent survey by Hilton conducted across China, India, Australia, Singapore and Japan confirms this, revealing that 40 per cent of respondents were likely to plan international trips around major sporting events. And more than half (60 per cent) have already travelled domestically or internationally for a sporting event.   People aren't attending these sporting spectacles alone, either. The rise in sports tourism stems from a drive to be social and connect – 47 per cent of of respondents travel with friends, while 55 per cent travel with partners. This aligns with one of the aforementioned fundamental reasons we travel: to create special shared memories.  And while having an interest in the sport itself (like Formu

It's been almost three years since Ed Sheeran serenaded crowds of 110,000 and 108,000 people over two epic nights at the MCG in March 2023, and now he's back in Melbourne and ready to rock Marvel Stadium.  As one of the best-selling music artists of all time (not to mention everyone's favourite wedding first dance artist), Sheeran has already performed in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney as part of his Loop Tour – and from what we've heard, he does not disappoint. Expect to hear hits such as ‘Castle on the Hill’, ‘Thinking Out Loud’ and ‘Perfect’, as well as songs off his brand new album Play. Excited? You bet we are. If you're heading to see Ed Sheeran in Melbourne, here’s everything you need to know... When is Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour in Melbourne? Sheeran is taking over Marvel Stadium for three massive shows on Thursday, February 26; Friday, February 27; and Saturday, February 28. How to get to Ed Sheeran's Melbourne concerts Marvel Stadium is right next door to Southern Cross Station, so public transport is by far the best option to get to the concert. Simply walk over the convenient footbridge to get from the platforms to the stadium entrance. For info on how to plan your public transport journey, head over here.  What time will Ed Sheeran come on stage? Gates open at 4pm, and Sheeran is expected to begin by around 8pm. The support acts will kick off around 5.15pm (more on that below). What can I bring to Ed Sheeran's Melbourne shows? There are specific rules for what you can an

Just when you thought a stay at Jackalope couldn’t get any more enticing, the stunning luxury hotel in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula’s wine region has announced the return of its pop-up outdoor cinema that will screen blockbuster flicks, cult classics and romcoms all through March. Created in collaboration with Lexus Australia, season two of Jackalope Cinema will open on Sunday, March 1, with a viewing of the Leonardo DiCaprio and Margot Robbie smash-hit, The Wolf of Wall Street. Other excellent movies on the month-long line-up include La La Land, Silver Linings Playbook, Black Swan, Lost in Translation and The French Dispatch.  Photograph: Griffin Simm This fully immersive experience a film buff’s dream, and will begin with the opportunity to enjoy a pre-movie bite at Doot Doot Doot (Jackalope’s renowned on-site restaurant) – think a menu loaded with delicious dishes showcasing the region’s local produce. Guests can then either head to their room to catch the flick from their vineyard-facing private terrace or get cosy on the infinity pool deck under the twinkling night sky. Bluetooth headphones will be provided to ensure top sound quality, and there will be plenty of snacks on offer, including unlimited popcorn (yes, really!), ice cream and other nostalgic treats. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Melbourne (@timeoutmelbourne)   “Having studied film before pivoting to designing spaces and experiences, the pillar of storytelling

Hey now, hey now! If you're a millennial of a certain age, these words are guaranteed to awaken something deep inside. They are, of course, the opening lyrics of Hilary Duff's (aka Lizzie McGuire) seminal 2003 track 'What Dreams Are Made Of' – which is widely considered one of the best songs of all time (according to me, that is). And now, we have news that is certainly what dreams are made of: Hilary Duff is officially coming to Melbourne. Duff has recently been on the comeback trail, having dropped hot new singles 'Mature' and 'Roommates' ahead of the release of her album luck… or something. After a string of intimate shows in London, Toronto, New York and Los Angeles as part of her Small Rooms, Big Nerves Tour – her first live performances in a decade – she's just announced a huge global tour. The Lucky Me Tour will hit Australia in October *squeals!* and it's for everyone who never thought they would get to see hits like 'Come Clean', 'So Yesterday' and 'Wake Up' live in person. Without further ado, here's everything we know about Hilary Duff's Melbourne shows. When is Hilary Duff in Melbourne?  Duff will perform at Rod Laver Arena on Monday, October 26 AND Tuesday, October 27, 2026. Lucky us! When do Hilary Duff Melbourne tickets go on sale? General ticket sales for Duff's Melbourne show will begin at 1pm on Friday, February 20. You can find out more via Live Nation. When is the Hilary Duff Melbourne presale? If you pre-order Duff's new album from the official Warner Mus

Lily Allen fans, you won't want to sleepwalk through this announcement! Earlier this week, British pop superstar Lily Allen hinted in a radio interview with Triple J that she might be visiting Down Under before the end of the year – and now we finally have confirmation. Allen is heading to Australia this spring for six mega shows across the country, including two in Melbourne. After seven long years without new music, the British icon returned to the airwaves in late October with West End Girl, a 44-minute-long chronicle of her marriage breakdown to David Harbour (aka Jim Hopper in Stranger Things). Appropriately, the tour is titled Lily Allen performs West End Girl – and she’ll be playing the entire album front-to-back, exactly as it appears on the record. Yes, we can already predict that seeing 'Pussy Palace' IRL is going to change our lives. We're also crossing our fingers she’ll perform some old-school bangers, like ‘The Fear’, ‘Smile’ and ‘Not Fair’. Keen to grab a ticket? Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to Lily Allen’s Melbourne shows. When is Lily Allen in Melbourne? Allen will perform at Rod Laver Arena on Wednesday, October 28 and Thursday, October 29, 2026. When do Lily Allen Melbourne tickets go on sale? Tickets for all of Allen’s Australian shows (including the Melbourne ones) go on sale at 1pm local time on Monday, February 9 via Frontier Touring. When is the Lily Allen Melbourne presale? Telstra Plus members get first dibs on ticket

When the Foo Fighters performed a one-off concert in the quiet Tassie city of Launceston last month, it's safe to say fans around the country felt pretty jealous. Well, now the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers – Dave Grohl, Nate Mendel, Chris Shiflett, Pat Smear, Rami Jaffee and Ilan Rubin – have announced they are returning, bringing their Take Cover tour to seven Aussie cities. And yes, Melbourne has made the cut! Here's everything you need to know about getting tickets to the Foo Fighters when they head to Australia this November. When are the Foo Fighters coming to Melbourne? The Foo Fighters will take to Marvel Stadium for one huge show on Saturday, November 14, 2026. When do Foo Fighters tickets go on sale in Melbourne? General public tickets go on sale on Wednesday, February 25 at 11am local time. Grab yours via the Frontier Touring website here. Is there a Foo Fighters presale? There always is! Telstra Plus Members score first dibs on tickets, with a presale kicking off on Friday, February 20 at 12pm local time via telstra.com.au/plus. A second presale for Frontier Members starts on Monday, February 23 at 12pm local time, and you can sign up for that one here. How much are tickets to the Foo Fighters in Melbourne? There are multiple ticket options, ranging from $99.90 for D reserve seating to $249 for A reserve seating and $249.90 for front general admission standing. Who is the support act for the Foo Fighters in Melbourne? The Foo Fighters will be joined by different sp

It's officially that time of year when the summer glow starts to fade, work begins to ramp up again and you start to question whether the 9-5 grind is really for you. Well, we've got the antidote to your February slump: book a holiday. And luckily, Qantas has just announced a surprise sale – and it's one of the Flying Kangaroo's biggest global sales of the year.  Qantas has released more than 500,000 discounted seats to 30-plus popular international destinations. Dreaming of a Euro summer? Keen to explore Asia? Ready to cross the ditch and visit New Zealand? If it’s on your travel wish list, chances are it’s on sale. This mega sale comes off the back of new Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data revealing Aussies took more than 12.5 million overseas trips in the 12 months ending November 2025. That’s an almost nine per cent jump on the year before, proving our appetite for exploring the world beyond our shores isn’t slowing down anytime soon. The Qantas sale runs for just one week, ending at 11.59pm (AEDT) on Monday, February 9. You don’t even have to wait long to jet off, with travel dates ranging from this month to December 11, 2026. So, where can you go? The 500,000-seat global sale covers more than 60 routes, with reduced fares to more than 30 international destinations across Europe, North and South America, Asia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the Pacific. Economy return fares from Melbourne to Bali start from just $659, while Melbourne to Singapore is $769. Ot

If there's one thing regional Victoria knows how to do well – you know, besides delivering gorgeous natural wonders and scenic road trips, of course – it's provide a warm welcome to weary travellers. From the far reaches of East Gippsland to the Grampians National Park, you're guaranteed a smile, a tip of the hat and a jovial g'day. But what are the townships that go above and beyond when it comes to friendliness?  Well, every year, Booking.com analyses more than 300 million verified customer reviews to determine the world’s most welcoming cities. From laid-back beach towns in Australia to historic hilltop towns in Italy and coastal gems in Taiwan, the 14th annual awards celebrate destinations known for hospitality that leaves a lasting impression with thoughtful touches, warm interactions, and hosts who go the extra mile. And in 2026, three Victorian destinations have made the official list of the most welcoming places in Australia. Landing in fourth is Port Campbell – located just past the 12 Apostles along the Great Ocean Road. With spectacular coastal scenery, some excellent dining spots and a close-knit, small-town energy it's no wonder this beach town was recognised.   Photograph: Supplied | Visit Victoria   Another seaside spot to be honoured was Ocean Grove, which nabbed eighth on the list. This Bellarine beauty came in fifth last year, so you know the good vibes are real. And making a repeat appearance in ninth spot is Daylesford. Also known as a haven of relaxatio

Nobody panic! It's been three years since Harry Styles last performed in Australia as part of his Love On Tour, and since that wrapped up all sightings of the international megastar have been few and far between – aside from popping up to run the odd marathon or being papped with Zoë Kravitz. But when Styles dropped the surprise announcement about his upcoming fourth album, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally, on January 16, we knew something bigger was brewing. And now, in the best Friday news any of us could ask for, Styles has revealed plans for a massive seven-city global residency titled Together, Together – with Melbourne *squeal* scoring three shows. Best of all, it's happening THIS YEAR. Oh, and as if that wasn't enough to send us into a spin, Styles also released his much-hyped new single 'Aperture' on Friday, January 23. So, alert the group chat and get your game plan in action – these tickets are gonna go quick. Here's everything we know about Harry Styles' Melbourne shows so far. When is Harry Styles in Melbourne?  The music gods have blessed Melbourne with not one, not two but three shows as part of Styles' Together, Together tour. He will kick off the Australian leg with performances on Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28 at Marvel Stadium. An extra third show has also just been announced for Wednesday, December 2, also at Marvel Stadium. When do Harry Styles Melbourne tickets go on sale? General ticket sales for Harry Styles' Melbourne shows will b