Best Of Melbourne

Easter is just around the corner, and while hot cross buns might’ve landed on supermarket shelves the week after Christmas, it’s this time of year where we really get to the good stuff: the city’s best bakeries serving up their takes on the humble hot cross bun.

We're cutting the niceties and sharing with you our picks for the best beaches on the Sunshine Coast in 2026.

If your dating strategy currently begins and ends with “restaurant, then Netflix”, Melbourne is begging you to do better.

Martini mania is nothing new to Melburnians. We’ve long been indulging in the stiff drink, whether it’s laced with olive brine or spiked with espresso. We continue to evolve the classic, offering many a martini to every kind of drinker. Here are our eight current favourite martini iterations around town: 

We've compiled a list of the warmest drinking dens from all city corners so you’ll know where to go for your next knock-off drink on a frigid winter's day. 

Whether it's a foodie find or a magical night market, Melbourne’s serving up another weekend of top-tier happenings. 

Ditch the big smoke and opt for wide-open vistas of rolling hills, lush native bushlands and stunning sunsets with the best farms stay in Victoria.

Grab your credit card, these are the best places to shop in Singapore.

Everything you’ve heard is true: the pavements heave, the pubs swell, and the queues might just make you faint. 

Fancy a kid-friendly weekend at a waterfront beach house with a gated pool? Or sneaking away to the hinterlands for a farmstay filled with horses and cows? You decide.

As the vibrant capital of Japan, Tokyo pulsates with an energy that is truly unparalleled.

Explore Fiji's best activities for every type of traveller in 2026.

We’ve hand-picked some of the best Daylesford accommodation options for 2026, including all the epic Airbnbs.

In Melbourne, coffee isn't just a drink; it's a daily ritual and a passionate debate. Whether you’re en route to work, waiting in line at your favorite cafe, or clutching your morning brew, conversations about Melbourne’s best coffee are always brewing. 

Finding quality lodging for six plus people can be difficult. But we’ve found these Victorian spots that are perfect for large groups.

Our guide to the best hotels in Melbourne for 2026, from boutique to bodacious.

Looking for a spot to stay in Victoria and spend time in the tub? Check out Urban List's pick of the best Airbnbs with outdoor spas and baths for 2026.

Although there are plenty out there, it's no easy task to find the best Airbnb in Victoria for your needs. Sometimes you're after something unique, other times only a pad with a hot tub will do... (what about one with a pool?)

The search for the perfect bar is the kind of quest you could commit your life to. But what if it isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of answer? In a city like Melbourne, there’s the best bar for every different type of mood, moment, night, and person. 

Planning the perfect romantic escape for your plus one can be tough when life is hectic. So Urban List has done the hard work for you, searching high and low to bring you the best romantic getaways in Victoria. 

If you’re craving a nature escape with a side of serious relaxation, Victoria’s hot springs are just what you need. These natural oases are designed for you to unplug, unwind, and soak away your worries in mineral-rich waters. From stunning coastal retreats to hidden mountain gems, we’ve rounded up the best hot springs in Melbourne and Victoria that are perfect for a rejuvenating day trip or a luxurious weekend getaway.

Some mornings are meant for sleep-ins and some are meant for indulging in the best bottomless brunch in Melbourne. Are you after endless mimosas, too many proseccos, more margaritas than you can poke a stick at? Well, if you've woken up on that side of the bed, get your Sunday (or Saturday) best on, and get ready to party. Check out our list of the best bottomless brunches in Melbourne for 2026.

From the perfect tomato juice to a uniquely concocted spice mix and extravagant garnishes, here are seven venues around Melbourne doing great bloody marys, and what makes each one stand out.

From water views to luxe city centre stays, Urban List has picked out the best pet-friendly hotels in Sydney and the packages on offer for you and your dog.

There are a range of different ways to escape the city and into Victoria's amazing regional areas—but out of all the quirky getaway options out there, we think tiny homes top the charts.

Love the thought of a weekend getaway in Victoria but worried about leaving the dog behind? You don’t have to, as Urban List has been hard at work digging out the best pet-friendly accommodation for you and your furry family member.

Ah, Melbourne. The city of a million suburbs, each with its own distinctive personality. Everyone should treat themselves to a little staycation once in a while, so start packing your overnight bag and take a look at the best Airbnbs in Melbourne for 2026.

Searching for the best Italian restaurants in Melbourne? From hidden trattorias to fine dining, here are Melbourne’s top Italian spots for pasta, pizza and more in 2026.

It's no secret that you can find some of the best ramen in Melbourne/Naarm. The list of ramen joints in this city is long. That's why we've done the broth-sipping, noodle-slurping hard work and found the most deliciously soul-warming bowls out there.

Here are the best bush walks on the Gold Coast, from a quick stroll to a full day in the wilderness.

Melbourne’s best pubs are redefining family-friendly dining—with proper playgrounds, delicious food  and cocktails to top you off. We’ve hunted down the 20 spots where kids go feral in enclosed play zones, teens disappear into arcades and parents finally get to enjoy a meal while it’s still hot. Genius? Absolutely. Long overdue? Even more so.

Where’s the best spot to get a good glass of vino in Melbourne? Here’s your handy cheat sheet.

Forget diamonds—Melbourne’s real luxury is a perfectly cooked steak. Whether you’re after a melt-in-your-mouth wagyu, a charred, smoky ribeye, or an old-school pub porterhouse with all the trimmings, this city delivers.

We may not love Melbourne’s cold, but it’s the perfect excuse to indulge in a steaming cup of hot cocoa. Sure, you can enjoy hot chocolate any time of year (no judgment here) but there’s something special about cradling a warm mug in both hands, savouring its silky richness as it melts away the chill.

Pho, a glorious Vietnamese noodle soup, has become a staple in Melbourne. Pronounced ‘fuh’, this dish involves a rich broth developed over hours of slow-simmering beef bones. Inside, you’ll find slippery rice noodles and thinly sliced beef. Top it off with fresh bean sprouts, herbs, and chilli, and you’ve got yourself one satisfying bowl of soup. Here's where you'll find the best pho in Melbourne. 

It’s well and truly roast season. When it’s woolly outside the comfort of a hearty slow-cooked roast lamb or chicken alongside golden crunchy potatoes (gravy optional but recommended) quells just about everything. 

Whether you're in the mood to channel some classic 19th-century vibes, complete with dainty finger sandwiches and scones stacked high, or something a bit more daring—think themed high teas, live music, and a splash of burlesque—Melbourne’s got you covered.

The heart of Melbourne, the CBD. We've got heaps of good restaurants here in Melbourne and Victoria as a whole. Whether you're looking for Flinders Lane restaurants or you're just looking to tuck into some affordable fare, we've nailed down the best.

Like the precinct’s spruikers, the choice really is overwhelming when it comes to Lygon Street restaurants. One will tell you they have the freshest carbonara in the southern hemisphere while the other will stake claim to a 400 cheese pizza. Both worthy options, but dig deeper and you’ll find a diverse culinary offering ranging from fiery ramen at one end and modern Australian at the other.

Melbourne's breakfast scene is unmatched—often imitated in cities around the world but never replicated. With so many stunners out there, some truly iconic brekkies have emerged. We gotchu covered with the best breakfast Melbourne has to offer for 2026.

When it comes to St Kilda restaurants, you’ll find a mix of iconic dining spots and hot new places just waiting for you to pay them a visit. From the freshest seafood around to classic pub fare and everything in between, here's your guide to the best St Kilda restaurants in 2026.

Starting as a slow burn, Melbourne’s flirtation with Filipino cuisine is blossoming into a fully-fledged love affair. 

As the cost of living climbs and cash flow stays stubbornly still, full-blown splurges are harder to justify. Enter: little treats. Edible indulgences in the form of a 3pm pick-me-up, a reward after a win, or a mood-lifter after a long day.

Collingwood is historically home to some of Melbourne's best restaurants, bars, shopping, street-art, and well ... just about everything else. But if you want a local tip, cut through the main drag on Smith Street and you'll see what's on offer is proper fire.

When judging cafes for solo working, my non-negotiables are aesthetically pleasing fit outs (vibes are important here), lovely staff who are up for a chat (you will need yap breaks), and of course, quality coffee.

Whether you’re here to eat your way across hawker centres, chase hidden bars, dive into the arts scene, or swap skyscrapers for jungle trails before lunch, there’s no shortage of ways to fill an itinerary.

Your guide to Melbourne's best concerts and live gigs this year. 

London is a veritable revolving door of imaginative restaurateurs with deep pockets.

Calling all seasoned beer appreciators, sippers and clinkers. Here are the best breweries on the Sunshine Coast worthy of your next sip.

Strap on some comfy shoes and grab the trail mix. These are the best walks near Melbourne.

​Sometimes you just want to splash out on something spesh, and Melbourne's the place to go if you want to pair your luxury stay with world class food and epic views.

The Lunar New Year is fast approaching and 2026 is the year of the horse, which symbolises momentum, fresh opportunities and forward movement.

It's the earmarked sports event of the summer, the Australian Open 2026 is the iconic stretch of January where Melbourne suddenly transforms into tennis-arm-chair experts. 

Looking for the best things to do with kids in Melbourne? We’ve rounded up the top family-friendly activities across the city.

In Melbourne, if there's a stage, there'll be theatre, and fortunately, there are plenty of both in this city. 

On the hunt for the best cafe in Melbourne? It's a tough one, simply due to the sheer volume of options. The standard the city has set has been replicated all over the world, and it's no surprise as the quality of our coffee is world-class and our brunch is unbeatable.

If you’re looking for the perfect place to indulge in epic food to ring in the New Year, Melbourne/Naarm has you covered. It’s a foodie hotspot, after all! These are the best spots to eat and drink (and party) your way into 2026. 

Bring on the silly season by visiting the best Christmas lights in Melbourne. 

Lorne is celebrated for its vibrant surf culture, diverse dining options and lush natural landscape. Top it off with the best accommodation in which to lay your head.

Home to towering Mountain Ash trees, the iconic Puffing Billy steam train and some seriously lush Airbnbs—the Dandenong Ranges cast a spell.

We sat down with Ross James Howse, the Naarm-based Chief Sandwich Officer and founder of @banginsangas. This ex-UK baker turned Melbourne food creator has built a devoted community around epic sangas and lifestyle bites. Here, Ross guest edits our best sandwiches list and shares why Melbourne’s scene bangs harder than anywhere else.

Looking for something a little bit fancy on the Mornington Peninsula to treat your family, friends or other half? Take some inspo from Urban List's round-up of the best luxury accommodation.

Nothing beats ditching the big smoke for a stint by the sea, and Victoria has some of the most unique beaches in the world. Here are the best beach house stays to book.

From moody rooftops where you'll drink by candlelight to iconic venues serving up the city's best views, we've sussed out the Melbourne rooftop bars that are on another level. These are the best rooftop bars calling Melbourne home in 2026.

Ready for a blast from the past? Combining the nostalgia of the Australian classic chicken shop with punchy, contemporary Athenian wine bar vibes, Kokoras is bringing woodfired, Greek style chicken to the inner west. 

It's that time of year again, Melbourne. As the chill finally breaks, our beautiful city and its surroundings are ready to burst into a glorious palette of colours. Get your cameras ready, because spring has sprung.

Hotdogs. No mere sausage-and-bun, but an American icon synonymous with baseball, the Fourth of July, Manhattan street-vendors and Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. And a strong contingent have sprouted up in Melbourne.

Looking for the best cheap eats in Melbourne? We've got you covered with a curated list of delicious, budget-friendly spots around the city. Dive into our picks for the top cheap eats Melbourne has to offer and discover how to satisfy your cravings without splurging.

If you’re seeking a sugary treat with a dollop of nostalgia, these eateries are serving up classic desserts set to send you hurtling back in time.

Dogs love water just as much as we do, from chasing garden hose streams to splashing in shallow pools. Watching your pup frolic in the waves at Melbourne’s best dog-friendly beaches is pure joy. However, not all beaches welcome furry friends. We've curated the top dog beaches in Victoria for 2026 so you and your best mate can enjoy the coast together. Here are Urban List's picks for the best dog-friendly beaches in Victoria.

Finding the perfect venue for your Christmas soiree isn’t the easiest job (I mean, no one wants to have drinks at the office…) Luckily, we’re here to help speed you along your way and make sure you pick the perfect place.

We Aussies are a pretty healthy bunch, so it's no wonder we host some of the best fitness events in the world—these are the best fun runs, marathons, triathlons, obstacle courses and ocean swims in Australia coming up in 2025. 

“Get a room,” they said—so we did.

With the highly anticipated debut of Pop Mart's flagship in Melbourne, the city’s love affair with eccentric collectibles has reached a fever pitch. And this time, it’s all about Labubus—the adorably fanged monster with a name that sounds like you’re accidentally summoning a demon.

Somewhere between smashed avo and artisanal gelato, Melbourne rediscovered its love for the humble fro-yo. Suddenly, those self-serve swirl bars are everywhere again with half of Melbourne wandering the streets clutching those telltale mini tubs—their contents barely visible under mountains of toppings.

Finding the best oyster bar in Melbourne is no easy task, that’s why we're shelling out the details on the city’s best.

With warm weathered days increasing in frequency and summer just around the corner we are looking for places to escape the urban concrete jungle and explore Victoria’s scenic outdoors. But the guilt of leaving behind our dogs when planning our getaways is all too real. Regional Victoria has no shortage of stunning campsites to feel grounded in nature and the best part, for a lot of them you can bring along your furry friends.

Whether you’ve been out at one of Melbourne’s best restaurants and require an equally excellent dessert or just have a craving for sugary goodness that warrants an excursion, Melbourne is home to plenty of dessert bars, patisseries and other sweet offerings that are sure to tickle your fancy. 

Whether you're a self-proclaimed bread enthusiast or a total croissant fiend after a fix you'll find something that’ll have your tastebuds doing a happy dance at Melbourne's best bakeries for 2025.

Geelong, it's only an hour away from Melbourne but it's a whole new world and there's plenty of things to get around. Here's the local inside scoop on where to eat, drink, play and stay when you're in The Pivot.

Mochi, a deliciously gooey and chewy Japanese dessert, originated in Japan during the Jamon period when rice cultivation began to flourish—and thank goodness it did because us mochi enthusiasts have grown very fond of the bite-sized treat. Now, the specialty dessert can be found all over Melbourne. 

Melbourne’s CBD is a treasure trove for bar lovers, the hardest part is just choosing where to go first. We've got you sorted with all the best bars Melbourne has to offer, from knock off through to night on the town. 

When the clock hits cocktail hour you don't want to be messing around, it's time for a crisp martini or meaty negroni. Thanks to Melbourne's stellar culinary and bar scene there are some seriously good spots around the city to get a glass in hand. From hidden watering holes to some serious first-class swank here are Urban List's picks for the best cocktail bars Melbourne has to offer in 2026.

We’ve got the largest Greek population outside of Athens, so it’s no surprise the city is brimming with Greek taverns and family-owned restaurants to suit all occasions and budgets. It’s a tough task, but we’ve pulled together the best Greek restaurants Melbourne has to offer, with plenty of options for the souv-fans, seafood lovers, dairy queens and vegetarians out there. 

Consider this your Melbourne bucket list that covers both tourist attractions and local haunts. There are endless things to do, see, eat and drink but sometimes it's difficult to know where to start. Like all good city guides, we’ve divided our hit list into a compass-like fashion to help you navigate your way around Melbourne’s best activities. So this is your chance to discover something new in your suburb or dare to venture into an unfamiliar area.

Rainy day? School holidays? Just need to get the kids out of the house before they climb the walls (or you do)? Melbourne’s packed with indoor play centres that go way beyond your average ball pit. 

Skip the south side/north side arguments this weekend, because Melbourne's city centre is a brunch destination of its own right. Here are the best (neutral ground) spots for brunch in Melbourne CBD. 

Welcome to our shiny new series, Budget Ballin’—a curated collection of Melbourne’s best eats and drinks that will have you living the good life without the hefty price tag. We’ll be covering all bases from midweek bites and fancy chef menus to call-in-sick-worthy happy hours.

One of the most important food groups to Melburnians, pizza is held in a treasured category of its own. Boasting some of the finest pizzerias outside of Italy, the level of craft here is world-class from classic leopard spotted Neapolitan-style to thick-cut deep dish. 

Arriving at the local watering hole with your best mate by your side is unmatched. You’ll take a swig of a pint and your furry companion dives into the communal watering bowl. You both look up at each other—it doesn't get much better than this. For those seeking dog-friendly pubs in Melbourne, here are the top recommendations for 2024: