Melbourne Winter Guide: Things To Do in Victoria This Winter 2024

7 Things to Do in Melbourne This Winter to Stay Warm and Cosy

Winter in Melbourne is a season where the city wraps itself in a cloak of enchantment (in Melbourne black, of course). As the temperatures drop, the city's heartbeat quickens, resonating with the warmth of glowing streetlights and the pattering of feet on wet cement. Snowflakes may be a rarity, but the magic of Melbourne’s winter lies in its vibrant cultural festivals, glittering light displays, and the inviting pubs and restaurants. This is a city that thrives in the cold, offering a notable heir of adaptability that makes visiting Melbourne in winter a . With thousands of GoGet's available around town, you'll keep dry out of the notoriously temperamental weather, and get to your destination, black attire intact..

two women in winter coats drinking coffe by a GoGet with the Melburne skyline in the background

Explore the Winter Night Market at Queen Victoria Market

One of Melbourne’s most iconic winter attractions is the Winter Night Market at Queen Victoria Market. Running every Wednesday from 5pm-10pm June-August, the market comes alive with a bustling atmosphere of street food, live music, and eclectic stalls. As you wander through the market, you’ll find a variety of delicious winter menus that showcase the best of local produce. Enjoy a cup of steaming mulled wine as you browse through artisan crafts and indulge in the ambience.

Lightscape at Royal Botanic Gardens

For a breathtaking experience, visit the Lightscape installation at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. This event features mesmerising light displays and installations that illuminate the gardens, creating a stunning winter wonderland. As you stroll along the beautifully lit pathways, you’ll be captivated by the artistic light installations that highlight the natural beauty of the gardens. The Lightscape event is one of the must-see attractions in Melbourne during the colder months. It’s a perfect activity for a winter evening, offering a magical experience that combines art and nature in a unique and unforgettable way.

Cosy Pubs and Open Fires

When the weather’s chilly, windy, and rainy, there’s no better place to be than one of Melbourne’s cosy pubs with a toasty open fire. Some popular venues to check out include the Fitzroy area’s classic spot, The Napier Hotel. Or quickly hop over to the Grace Darling Hotel in Collingwood. complete with an intimate candlelit setting. These venues provide the perfect setting to stay warm and savour delicious food and drinks while catching up with friends, listening to live music, or simply relaxing.

Melbourne International Arts Festival

The Melbourne International Arts Festival is one of the best things to do during the early winter season, bringing together local and international talent in a celebration of the arts. The festival features captivating music and theatre performances as well as inspiring art exhibitions.  Imagine strolling through Melbourne’s streets, where every corner reveals a new surprise: a contemporary dance performance in a hidden laneway, an avant-garde theatre production in a historic building, or a mesmerising visual art installation in a bustling square. The festival's eclectic program is a testament to Melbourne’s thriving cultural scene, offering something for every taste. You might find yourself entranced by the haunting melodies of a symphony orchestra one evening and laughing out loud at a cutting-edge comedy show the next.

Sports and Entertainment

Winter in Melbourne is also a great time for sports enthusiasts, with events like AFL matches at the notorious MCG and rugby games at AAMI Park. The city’s sporting venues host thrilling games that are perfect for experiencing the local sports culture. Additionally, venues like the Marvel Stadium offer exciting entertainment options throughout the winter season.

A rower rows down the Yarra River with the MCG in the background

Experience the RISING Festival

Another must-attend event in Melbourne's winter calendar is the RISING Festival, a city-wide celebration of music, art, and performance. This festival brings Melbourne’s streets, laneways, and public spaces to life with an eclectic mix of light installations, immersive art experiences, and live performances from both local and international artists. The festival's diverse program includes everything from avant-garde theatre productions to cutting-edge musical acts, ensuring that there’s something to captivate every attendee. RISING is not just a festival; it’s an invitation to see Melbourne in a new light and embark on a journey through the city’s vibrant and dynamic cultural landscape.

Become A Film Critic at MIFF

The Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) is a jewel in the city's cultural crown, transforming Melbourne into a cinematic wonderland every winter. As one of the oldest film festivals in the world, MIFF showcases an extraordinary selection of films from across the globe, including thought-provoking documentaries, captivating dramas, and groundbreaking indie films. The festival takes over iconic venues throughout the city, such as Astor Theatre, creating an atmosphere where film lovers can immerse themselves in the art of storytelling.

Conclusion

There’s no shortage of events to warm your heart and ignite your imagination during the Melbourne winter. As you navigate this winter wonderland, GoGet is your perfect companion, providing the freedom and flexibility to explore every corner of the city with ease. Whether you’re heading to a cosy pub with a roaring fireplace, catching a late-night film screening, or attending an art exhibition, GoGet ensures you can make the most of Melbourne’s winter delights without the hassle of parking or public transport. Embrace the magic of winter in Melbourne and let GoGet Carshare help you make your seasonal adventures as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Travelling to Sydney? Check out our guide to the best winter attractions in Sydney.


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Veronica Mackie

Veronica Mackie is a seasoned freelance writer with 10 years of experience, harnessing her degrees in English and Cultural Anthropology. A passionate climate activist, she integrates her environmental advocacy into her work. Veronica has travelled to over 30 countries worldwide and currently embraces the lifestyle of a global travelling housesitter. She currently resides in Victoria, Australia with her husband.

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The Best Things To Do in Sydney in Winter for 2024