How to have a European summer in Melbourne

Nothing says la dolce vita like a spritz on a summer's day. For a Roman holiday without leaving Melbourne, seek out the hidden Di Stasio Pizzeria courtyard. Knock back a classic Aperol spritz while admiring the authentic Italian water fountain. Next, head upstairs to Johnny’s Green Room for a Hugo spritz on the sun-drenched rooftop. Or swing by floating beach club Afloat, snag a cabana and enjoy a limoncello spritz. 

FIll your basket with deli staples and roll out the rug on the lawn under Melbourne’s own Eiffel Tower. That is, the glowing Arts Centre spire. Prepare for your Parisian picnic with snacks from the Queen Vic Market’s Dairy Produce Hall. Pick up baguettes, quality French cheeses and charcuterie for your spread. Or try Spring Street Grocer, which opens its cheese cellar to the public monthly. The resident cheesemonger can help you navigate the endless wheels.

Dreaming of floating down the canals of Venice on a gondola? Punting on the Lake in the serene Royal Botanic Gardens is every bit as romantic. If travelling down the Danube or the Rhine is on your bucket list, the Yarra River is the next best thing. Cruise in style on a floating restaurant, or book a classic steamboat cruise. For those that prefer to be their own captain, check out On a Boat and GoBoat. Pack a picnic and venture up the river at your own pace.

All great European meals end with refreshing gelato. For one of Melbourne’s most unique scoops that will whisk you away to the Italian coast, try Taste of Amalfi. The refreshing dessert is served in a whole lemon (or blood orange). The must-trys after a hot summer's day of sightseeing? Piccolina’s classic pistachio and Gelato Primavera’s seasonal flavours like peach and basil.

There are no magics or Mont Blancs in sight at these quintessential Italian espresso bars. Grab a seat at the counter for late-night coffee and cake under the neon lights of Pellegrini's. Order cute Sicilian-style cannoli and moka pot sets at Cannoleria. Or visit the beautiful Royal Arcade, where Caffe e Torta feels like a slice of Rome. Think table service, strong coffee and opera music. 

The world’s flakiest, butteriest pastries are just a tram ride away. Lune Croissanterie is world-famous for a reason. But Publique’s sourdough croissants and Baker D Chirico’s Italian bomboloni are equally loved. Find Central European flavours at Austro Bakery. Think big German pretzels and Vienna scrolls. If you’re looking for Portuguese tarts, Casa Nata has a stall at the Summer Night Market. They’re best enjoyed with a cup of Running Bull Sangria.    

When it comes to pizza and pasta, Lygon Street is a no-brainer. Johnny Vince and Sam’s feels like you’re dining at your Nonna’s house. While Tiamo is a local favourite for a big bowl of pasta. Find the world’s best margherita at Naples-style spot Gradi at Crown. Pair your Italian feast with a negroni or limoncello spritz fountain at Tippy Tay. And come lunchtime, order pizza by the slice at Romanello. Or loaded Puglian focaccia sandwiches at No22.

If the Spaniards have taught us anything it’s that drinks are best enjoyed with a tasty little snack. Visit Iberia with Bar Lourinhã’s small plates. Think cheesy croquetas, kingfish ‘pancetta’ and pork tongue pinxtos. Next, soar up to iconic rooftop bar Bomba. Inspired by a traditional worker's bar, Spanish wines are paired with chargrilled delicacies and aged jamon. Or try El Rincon’s traditional Spanish tortilla and tinned sardines.

Lined with stunning architecture, luxury fashion and iconic theatres, the top-end of Collins Street is a must for Melbourne Francophiles. Marvel at the heritage buildings as you flit from Longchamp to Louis Vuitton. Stop in at La Belle Miette, world-renowned for its perfectly crafted macarons. For the last word in traditional fine French cuisine, complete with white linen and silver service, dine at Philippe.