Where to enjoy a European-style winter in Melbourne

What Melbourne lacks in snow, we make up for with cool creativity. Here’s how to recreate a Northern Hemisphere winter.

Visit the Winter Night Market

Melbourne's iconic Winter Night Market is back in full swing. We're talking twinkling lights, roving performers and live music. Warm up with a mug of steamy mulled wine or spiced Milo. Grab a bite to eat at the dozens of food trucks. Then shop for locally-made homewares, vintage clothing, gifts for pets and more.

Wander through a glitzy Christmas shop

It’s Christmas year-round at Ambiance, right by the Queen Victoria Market. The store stocks blingy decorations and rare ornaments sourced from around the world. Head straight for the spectacular white-themed room and snap a pic among the snow capped trees, glowing lights and icicle baubles.

Have Christmas in July

Embrace the winter festive vibes and book in at a Christmas in July event. Pier 35 in Port Melbourne is switching to Santa mode for the month of July. Sip on mulled wine, eggnog or hot chocolate. Then settle in for a traditional Christmas dinner and even a visit from the man in the red suit himself. Or book a spot at Stamford Plaza's High Tea Buffet. There'll be all sorts of holiday-style treats like handcrafted sweets, festive desserts, warm scones and savoury favourites.

Dine in a private fondue chalet

Feast under the twinkling lights of your very own mini Fondue Chalet. This winter pop-up is back for another Euro-style winter in Melbourne. Visit the French alpine village at Skyline Fed Square, grab a mulled wine and choose your cheesy adventure. Will it be fondue or raclette? Sip European wine in front of the crackling fire pit as you soak in the cosy après-ski vibes.

Book a stay in a luxe hotel

Nothing says Euro vacation like a stay in a fancy hotel, so why not book a getaway right here in Melbourne? Sebel Melbourne Docklands is offering a hotel package complete with a free upgrade and complimentary winter treats. Over at Ibis Styles Southbank Melbourne you can feast on a free pizza and two drinks when you book a Superior Room Staycation Package. Book at Sheraton Melbourne stay and kids eat for free. Or why not organise a winter reatreat package at Lanson Place Parliament Gardens where you can enjoy a daily buffet breakfast, welcome drink and restaurant credit.

Have dinner in a private conservatory

A magical botanic conservatory pop-up has just landed in Melbourne. Head upstairs to this secret winter hideaway and settle into your own private pod surrounded by fairy lights. Go for the set menu featuring tasty shared entrees, mains and desserts. Or order from the premium menu where you'll be treated to freshly-shucked oysters, Wagyu rump and in true European style – a rich chocolate fondue to finish. Cocktails are on the dramatic side here and feature glowing bubbles and billowing smoke.

Settle in by the fire

Feeling the chill? Head to one of Melbourne's many cosy winter watering holes where crackling fires await. Warm your tootsies and get cosy in front of the open fire at West Melbourne’s Benchwarmer. Other spots include Town Hall Hotel, Courthouse Hotel and Aster. For something completely different, have a pub meal at Fortress, where the fireplace is an 8-bit animated delight.

Order a hearty roast dinner

Pass the gravy and warm up with a good-old-fashioned Sunday roast. Head to Langlands to share a full spread with friends. Settle in by the fire at Naughtons where the roast is accompanied by live music. And try an old-school feast with all the trimmings, including Yorkshire pud, at The Lincoln. Then eat your way through more of Melbourne's best Sunday roasts.

Dance in the snow at a cosy winter chalet

With a dusting of snow and a dash of après ski vibes, you'll be whisked away to the Italian Alps at Pepe's. The garden lounge has been transformed into a magical European winter chalet. Dine on Italian antipasti and pizza under the snow machine. Snap a pic with the sleigh. And finish the night with spiced whisky cocktails and sticky toffee pudding.

Take a spin around the ice rink

Get your skates on and practice your triple axel for year-round skating at O’Brien Icehouse. Whether you’re an expert or beginner, skating with your crew is always fun. Slice across the ice during their public skating sessions, with extended hours during school holidays. Grab a toastie at the Igloo Cafe or get a little fancy at the St Moritz bar on site. And remember to rug up in warm socks, gloves and a beanie.

Sip campfire hot chocolate 

Check out Mörk for an artisan cup of ethically sourced hot chocolate. Campfire is the Insta star, recreating the nostalgic atmosphere of a childhood bonfire. It comes complete with house-made marshmallows. Then discover more of Melbourne’s best hot chocolate including a Parisian-style hot chocolate overflowing with cream.

Plan a play date with penguins

For a slice of ice-cold Antarctica in Melbourne, make tracks to SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium. Meet the aquarium’s cutest residents, the king and gentoo penguins. These playful little bundles of energy will hold your attention for hours. Want a closer encounter? Suit up in your snow gear, get your Penguin Passport stamped and spend 45 minutes on the ice with the penguins.

Pick up a mulled wine spice kit

Just as winter is the time for mulled wine, Gewürzhaus is the place to buy the fixings to make your own at home. The spice kit includes the vanilla bean sugar, Glühwein Gewürz spice and infuser bags you’ll need. Just add to your own merlot. Follow the recipe and serve with orange and a cinnamon quill.