With the warm days of summer fading away into a distant memory, Melbourne transforms into a winter wonderland. As nature enters its deep slumber, this vibrant City bursts into life, making it the perfect place for a winter escape.
Short days, long nights, and crisp winter air create a truly romantic atmosphere. Forget about the intense heat of summer holding you back from exploring the best things to see and do in Melbourne. Now is the time for the city to shine.
Crowne Plaza Melbourne is the only absolute riverfront hotel in Melbourne City. When you're not out exploring, stay cosy in warm and stylish accommodation with uninterrupted sweeping views of the Yarra River and beyond. With the free tram zone right on your doorstep, visiting Melbourne's biggest and best attractions is easy.
When it comes to magical winter escapes, Melbourne is an absolute must. But don't just take our word for it. Here are some fantastic winter wonders for you to enjoy, day or night.
Wander Melbourne Winter Night Market
Kicking off our list of things to do in Melbourne during the winter is the Melbourne Winter Night Market. Starting on June 5th and running right through to August 28th, the Melbourne Winter Night Market returns to the bustling Queen Victoria Market.
Every Wednesday, the Winter Night Market bursts into life with artisan stalls, festival bars and plenty of spectacular street food. Keep the winter chill at bay with a steaming hot chocolate or glass of mulled wine you make your way from stall to stall before sinking your teeth into a freshly made pizza.
Foodies will fall in love with the delectable dishes to be found, bringing flavours and fragrances from all four corners of the world to Melbourne. Stock up on fresh produce and seasonal goods before taking in live performances from some of Melbourne's finest local talent.
Throughout July, the Winter Market takes on a Christmas in July theme. Dig out your ugliest Christmas sweater and wander through a magical world of glittering lights, decorations, and snow! After all, Christmas is too good to only have once a year!
In Winter, Melbourne is made for heading out, not hibernating. Whether you want to enjoy a dreamy date night, spoil the kids to a second Christmas, or simply shop till you drop, Melbourne Winter Night Market definitely doesn't disappoint.
Free Fun at Melbourne Docklands Fireworks
There is only one thing better than a winter firework display. And that is a FREE winter firework display. We have got your winter Wednesdays covered with the Melbourne Night Market. Now it's time to move on to your frozen Fridays.
The perfect early evening activity in Melbourne for the whole family, fireworks at the docklands are guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The evening typically kicks off at around 6:30 pm with plenty of hot food and live music available. Grab a bite to eat from one of the many food trucks while enjoying some live music.
The free Docklands firework display starts at 7:30 pm, lighting up the Melbourne City skyline for an entire hour. Kids will love watching the sky fill with showers rainbows and stratosphere-reaching rockets. When it comes to the best family-friendly nighttime activities in Melbourne, you will be hard pushed to find better than this.
Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens
There is nothing quite like winter to transform the outdoors into a sparkling and magical wonderland. See the Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens in a whole new light. Early mornings provide the best chance of experiencing a fairy tail frozen landscape. Plants take on a glass-like appearance, encased in a blanket of shimmering early morning frost. The sun rests lower in the sky, giving the gardens a more romantic and atmospheric look and feel.
Escape the chill of the day in the tropical hothouse and learn more about the rich history of indigenous culture. Participate in one of the guided aboriginal heritage walks, which highlights the different plants used for medicine and tools. And then take to the ornamental Lake on an English-style punt and get a different view of the gardens and beyond.
Must-Visit Melbourne Winter Festivals
Throughout winter, Melbourne is home to festivals fit for every age group. From music to multicultural extravaganzas, you will never be short of activities to enjoy. Here are some of the best Melbourne festivals to experience on your winter escape to the city.
July
July seize the open House Melbourne enter its 12th year. More than 200 of Melbourne City's most iconic buildings open their doors to the public. Gain unprecedented views and insights behind the architecture of Melbourne City's landmarks. Also entering its 12th year is Run Melbourne, the cities biggest and best race weekend.
August
August is literally filled to the brim with fantastic festivals and events. Get up close and personal with the movie industry at the Melbourne international film festival. Celebrate the end of winter and the start of spring with interactive and creative experiences spread out across three different venues. Bringing a world of mysterious and mythological magic to life, it is the ultimate nighttime festival running for three consecutive days.
- Melbourne Day
- Melbourne Fishing And Boating Expo
- Melbourne International Film Festival 2019
- The Melbourne Home Show 2019
- The Melbourne Writers Festival
- White Night Melbourne 2019
Winter Done Your Way
Love it or hate it. There's no denying that winter is the most wondrous time of year. If you're not planning on heading off to sunnier climes to escape winter, then head to Melbourne for the ultimate winter escape.
This vibrant city guarantees to warm the heart and soul of every visitor. And Crowne Plaza Melbourne is the perfect place to stay for exploring the best things to see and do in Melbourne during winter.