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Food and drink
The best board game café in Melbourne depends on the kind of experience you want. Marche Board Game Café is a strong choice for traditional board games with food and drinks, while Fortress Melbourne suits groups looking for a broader gaming experience. For a casual night out, Boardies Bar and Pixel Bar & Café are also worth considering.
By Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
Food and drink
Melbourne is a food lover’s city with plenty of must-try dishes and drinks. Start with a Melbourne-style coffee, then try hot jam doughnuts, South Melbourne dim sims, Australian meat pies and smashed avocado on sourdough. The city’s multicultural food scene also makes dumplings, noodles, ramen and other Asian cuisines worth exploring.
By Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
Getting around
Melbourne has many beautiful spots for a surprise picnic. Royal Botanic Gardens is ideal for a romantic and peaceful experience, while St Kilda Botanical Gardens offers a relaxed setting. Carlton Gardens is perfect for an elegant picnic, Studley Park suits nature lovers, and Alexandra Gardens is a great riverside option. Bring a picnic basket, flowers, a small gift and a camera to make the surprise extra memorable.
By Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
City guides
Melbourne offers plenty of romantic events and experiences for couples, from Yarra River cruises and outdoor movies to art exhibitions, Christmas lights, festivals, live entertainment and scenic garden walks. Whether you're planning a first date, anniversary or weekend getaway, Melbourne has options for every season and budget. Couples can also enjoy romantic dinners, explore the city's famous laneways, visit seasonal markets or simply take an evening walk through the city.
By Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
Getting around
November is a great time to explore Melbourne, with spring weather, longer days and plenty of outdoor activities. Visitors can explore Melbourne’s famous laneways, enjoy cafés and brunch spots, relax at St Kilda Beach, visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, discover museums and galleries, attend seasonal events and markets, or take a day trip to nearby destinations. Whether you enjoy food, culture, nature or entertainment, Melbourne offers plenty to see and do throughout November.
By Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
Getting around
November is a busy month for entertainment in Melbourne, with a wide range of theatre shows, musicals, opera, family performances and live concerts. Visitors can enjoy productions such as La Bohème, My Fair Lady, Mrs. Doubtfire – The Musical and The Trumpet of the Swan, along with major music performances across the city. Whether you enjoy theatre, music or family entertainment, Melbourne has plenty of shows to explore in November.
By Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
Getting around
Melbourne offers plenty of ways to enjoy New Year's Day 2027, from music events and Docklands boat parties to cultural celebrations, gardens, galleries and city attractions. For entertainment, smalltown NYD in Cremorne and the WAVE AFTER WAVE boat party are options, while Melbourne's parks and attractions are ideal for a relaxed day. Always check event times, tickets and opening hours before visiting.
By Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
Getting around
Australia is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, combining natural wonders, cultural heritage and impressive architecture. The top five include the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Uluru, Great Barrier Reef and Twelve Apostles. Each landmark offers a unique experience, from Sydney’s iconic harbour views to Uluru’s cultural significance and the spectacular landscapes of the Great Barrier Reef and Great Ocean Road.
By Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
City guides
Living in Melbourne as an international student requires careful planning, as expenses can vary depending on accommodation, location and lifestyle. Rent is usually one of the largest costs, with shared housing offering an option for students looking to manage their budget. Grocery shopping and preparing meals at home can help control food expenses, while Melbourne’s public transport network makes it easier to travel without owning a car. Students should also plan for utilities, phone bills.
By Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
Food and drink
Whether you're craving a buttery croissant, freshly baked sourdough, a beautifully decorated cake, or a simple pastry with your morning coffee, Melbourne has plenty of bakeries to explore. The seven bakeries featured in this guide offer a variety of styles and specialties, giving locals and visitors plenty of options for their next bakery visit. Explore Melbourne Sphere to find more local bakeries and discover great food businesses near you.
By Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
Food and drink
Whether you're looking for specialty coffee, creative breakfast dishes, a stylish interior, or a relaxed weekend meal, Melbourne has plenty of brunch options to explore. The seven cafés featured in this guide provide different experiences across the city, giving visitors and locals plenty of choices for their next breakfast or brunch outing. Explore Melbourne Sphere to discover more local cafés and restaurants and find your next Melbourne brunch destination.
By Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
Around the city
Find your way around the city and its neighbourhoods.
