Projections, installations, unbelievable cocktails and more. These aesthetic spots in Melbourne need to be snapped ASAP.

Snap Melbourne's glitziest Christmas decorations

See the city sprinkled with sparkly lights, epic projections and stunning installations from 28 November. The big tree at Fed Square will be back in all its 17.5 metre LED glory. See colourful projections lighting up Flinders Street Station, Melbourne Town Hall and Chapter House. Wander through laneways awash with decorations. And yes, the magical Crown Christmas River Show is back!

A giant green LED Christmas tree in the city surrounded by crowds.
Christmas Square

See stunning views from the top of a Ferris wheel

Jump on board Melbourne's newest Ferris wheel and take in the most beautiful views. Located right next to the river, Skyline Melbourne soars 35-metres into the sky. There's plenty to do on solid ground too. Play a round of mini golf at the Australian-themed course. Or grab a bite to eat from the food trucks at the base of the wheel.

Sink into an adult-sized ball pit

Check in at technicolour dream world, Hijinx Hotel. This rainbow-bright experience is filled with ten larger-than-life puzzle rooms. Solve spooky puzzles, play mind-boggling games and make a splash in the ball pit. Then celebrate your success with a bite at the diner. Quirky cocktails range from bubble-topped bevs to drinks served in disco balls.

Discover a mind-blowing underwater world

Experience the magic of the ocean at the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium. Journey through a huge underwater tunnel and see the huge sharks. Plus majestic stingrays, tropical fish and more swimming all around you. For the most photogenic sea species, head straight to the jellyfish exhibit. Here you'll see thousands of these mesmerising colourful little creatures. Don't skip a visit with Pesto and his adorable penguin friends before you leave!

Find the hidden door to a vintage speakeasy

It may look like a sewing shop, but behind the secret mirrored wardrobe door lies a vintage speakeasy. Mill Place Merchants is tucked inside a heritage-listed building in the city. Skilled bartenders are whipping up classic cocktails by candlelight. The stunning interiors pay homage to the venue's former life as a factory that once produced hats, soap, and small goods. 

A hallway with old sewing shop details including a suit on a mannequin and an old wardrobe.
Mill Place Merchants

See a spectacular glowing weather forecast

Melburnians love any excuse to talk about the weather. And Victoria Harbour's Light House is a towering ode to our favourite conversation starter. The building projects Melbourne’s weather in real-time. Every night after dark, see stunning abstract light installations. Stick around to see the lights forecast tomorrow’s weather on the hour, every hour. Will it be rain, clouds, wind or sunshine?

Order too-cute-to-eat desserts

Food, art, or just perfect Insta-fodder? Melbourne's most Instagrammable desserts are a bit of everything. Start with a novelty cupcake topped with a bunny or teddy bear from The Butter Room. Then embrace the whimsy at Musu and Co. The adorable emoji cakes are inspired by Jellycats.

Colourful cakes including one with a candle, legs and smiley face.
Musu and Co

Go for gold at a luxury shoe boutique

Golden Goose’s Melbourne digs are as eye-catching as the cult Italian sneakers on sale. A gold metal staircase leads to glowing white walls lined with backlit shelves. The flagship store's industrial edge complements Golden Goose's range of handmade, distressed sneakers. Speak to the sneaker creator to co-create your new pair of star-detailed shoes.

Pose in a retro gaming arcade

Arcade games old and new will have you clicking away at Archie Brothers. Go classic with Space Invaders, or take a seat in the life-sized Mario Kart. Be dazzled by neon while playing Let’s Bounce or NBA Hoops. Then order a fairy-floss topped cocktail for the ultimate Insta-feed. Find it in Docklands or the new location at QV Melbourne.

More photo-worthy Melbourne fun

The Magic Table
Until

The Magic Table

Experience an immersive 3D dinner show, perfect for curious minds of all ages.

ArtVo

ArtVo

An interactive 3D art gallery with optical illusions that visitors can touch and explore.

Oxi Tea Room

Oxi Tea Room

Afro-Asian tea room serving modern high tea and desserts with unique Taiwanese and Kenyan teas.

Melbourne Skydeck

Melbourne Skydeck

This 300m high public observation deck captures everything that is special about Melbourne.

Melbourne's most instagrammable shops

Melbourne's most instagrammable shops

Our guide to the best looking shops in Melbourne, guaranteed to light up your Instagram feed.

Reina Melbourne

Reina Melbourne

An archival designer clothing store.

Sarah & Sebastian

Sarah & Sebastian

Fine jewellery store and luxury piercing by an Australian jewellery designer.

Pollon Flowers

Pollon Flowers

Pollon Flowers is noted for creative floral arrangements and their stunning window display.

dot COMME

dot COMME

A rare and extensive collection of Japanese and Belgian fashion dating back to the 1970s.

Magical places to watch the sunset in Melbourne

Magical places to watch the sunset in Melbourne

Daylight saving starts on 5 October. Here's where to make the most of it.

Last updated on Thu 13 Nov 2025

Christmas

Christmas things to do

Christmas things to do

The city’s wrapped and ready with magical moments, twinkling lights and festive fun.

Christmas eat and drink

Christmas eat and drink

Savour the city’s festive flavours with rooftop bars, laneways and menus made for merry moments.

Christmas shopping

Christmas shopping

Start ticking off your list in the city’s iconic laneways, arcades and malls.

Discover more

NGV International

NGV International

NGV International houses a whole world of international art.

Shrine of Remembrance

Shrine of Remembrance

The national war memorial of Victoria, honouring all Australians who have served their country.

Tolarno Galleries

Tolarno Galleries

One of Australia’s most stimulating exhibitors of contemporary art and design.

Meyers Place

Meyers Place

Explore one of Melbourne's most iconic laneways, filled with bars, restaurants and murals.