Activities & Itineraries

Bendigo has seriously diversified its portfolio since its opulent gold rush era. Now with an impressive food scene, buzzing creative community and regional charm aplenty, it's the weekend getwaway from the city you need to take. 

 Next-gen artists lighting up the city, tropical islands, ancient rainforests and sun-soaked afternoons await.

The vibes in Noosa are immaculate and the dishes are bucket list-worthy.

If there’s one guarantee in this life, it's that there's always something to do in Melbourne—even when the temps start dropping offensively low.

With a forecast of crisp sunny days and good times on the agenda, there’s endless places to play and stay in this literal slice of paradise.

You don't have to be a sailing fanatic to head to Hamilton Island Race Week. 

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.

The celebration of art, light, music, and cutting-edge technology has returned for its fifth edition, with more kaleidoscopic installations, late-night gigs set to trippy projections, and a new program of dining events. 

Whether it's Dolly Parton hitting the Comedy Theatre stage bootstraps and rhinestones in tow, or the awaited return of Lightscape’s epic winter trail, Melbourne’s serving up another weekend of top-tier happenings. 

Arguably Melbourne’s most picturesque regional city, Ballarat was founded in 1838 and was the centre of the gold rush in Victoria—and very briefly one of the wealthiest cities in the world. It’s come a long way since then and it’s not just about gold rush history anymore—there’s more things to eat, drink, do and see than ever before.

If you're planning on cosying up and leaving home only for the most impressive events this winter you're in luck, because Firelight Festival is set to return bigger and brighter than ever. 

This winter night market is the snow-dusted winter wonderland that Melbournians usually only dream about (or fly to Europe for). Here are all the reasons Queen Victoria Market's Winter Market is worth rugging up for. 

It's 2025, and Melbourne's cultural grounds are firing on all burners with plenty of things to do. Festivals, Theatre, food and more are all ripe for the filling of that social calendar, and your stomach. The real question is how many of these can you fit into one week? Here's what's on.

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.

Mighty MIFF (Melbourne International Film Festival) is back from Thursday 7 August to Sunday 24 August. We’ve deciphered the "First Glance" program into bite-sized pieces so you know what to watch without the hard work. 

We live in spa country. We’ve got some of the best day spas in Melbourne and beyond with Daylesford and Sorrento bringing the goods. Breathe in, breathe out, relax your shoulders, and get booking. Here is Urban List's guide to the best days spas Melbourne and Victoria have to offer.

Stuck for unique date ideas in Melbourne? The sheer number of options is overwhelming, but don't worry we've got you. If you're looking for the best, fun, cute, cheap, cool, free or first date ideas we have something good for everyone.

From the usual suspects like Gardens by the Bay and Universal Studios Singapore to more unusual offerings like Haw Par Villa and Changi Jurassic Mile, here are the best things to do in Singapore.

Between some seriously breathtaking natural gems, uber-exciting eats, and a range of stays to satisfy all kinds, Townsville has quickly become one of the country's best places to explore this year. 

No need for bowling shoes or chalked hands, axe throwing is the come-as-you-are pastime bringing infectiously good times to anyone who picks up a handle. 

Pickleball is a cocktail of racket sports. It uses a rubber paddle similar to table tennis, played on courts just like badminton, and has major squash vibes. You can play it indoors or outdoors, with two or four players, and if you did a double take passing by a game, you might almost mistaken it for tennis. In 2025, Pickleball in Melbourne is popping off, so we did some digging.

With no magical frozen lakes to skate on in Melbourne this winter (though it’s damn cold enough, am I right?), the closest thing we’re going to come to a winter wonderland is an ice skating rink. 

Looking for Melbourne's best mini golf? Whether you're after a glow-in-the-dark party, coastal views with your putts or the ultimate obstacle courses, we've teed up the city's top spots for unforgettable rounds. 

Netflix is bringing Squid Game to life with a spine-tingling activation at Federation Square this month. 

Sandy McIntyre is the actor, writer, producer and model making waves across Australia’s creative scene. We picked their brains on the best of what to do in Sydney this winter season. 

If there’s one person who knows how to make the most of a weekend in Sydney, it’s the powerhouse NRLW player, sharp-witted commentator, and podcast co-host Millie Elliott. 

With this year marking the event’s 20th anniversary and its biggest program to date, Sydney Comedy Festival is set to roll into town for a month of cracking jokes. 

Want an unfettered farmstay experience? Bluestone Ridge is the real deal, this 800 acre cattle farm is tucked away in Victoria's High Country and is the serene escape you're after.

No matter the season, it’s always prime time to pack the car and escape into Victoria’s wild backyard. From lush riverfront bushland to windswept coastal dunes (yes, you might spot a whale), the state is dotted with incredible free camping spots - some within just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne.

How far would you drive for some Sizzler-style cheese toast? 'Cos we're happy to spend an hour heading up to the Blackwood Hotel for a little slice of nostalgia and a frosty pint to match.

Whether you’re planning a first date, an anniversary, or a sweet surprise for your special someone, organising a date that makes them swoon (and scores you some serious brownie points) is always a win.

For those on the hunt for a cultural experience rich with all things history, people, stories, and nature, Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) should be top of the list. 

Winter just got cheesier. From 15 May to 22 June 2025, Fed Square transforms into a snow-dusted French alpine village for Fondue Chalet—the city’s most indulgent winter pop-up from the team behind Melbourne’s cult-favourite Raclette Igloo.

This destination diner in the Southern Grampians is the very essence of local, Victorian dining. And it doesn't hurt that the surrounds are stunning.

Hint, it involves free entry, and we're here for that to send them off.

Singapore has so much to offer that even a short stopover becomes its own holiday. Uncover the hidden gems of this incredible country—you might just find that you want to stay longer. 

Whether you have a couple of hours airside transiting to your next destination or you’re lucky enough to make a day of it in Jewel, we’ve sorted your next layover at Changi Airport in Singapore.

Tucked away on Japan’s southwestern island of Kyushu, Fukuoka thrives in the understated—a mix of old-world craft and neon-lit nights where every bite and every hidden corner convinces you to stay a little longer. 

The Formula 1 Louis Vuitton Australian Grand Prix 2025 is a pretty big deal for us Melburnians.

As the action revs up on the track, we'll show you how to ace the off-track scene

Expect a three-course meal, inventive minty cocktails, wine and conversation cards to get to know your new mates.

This year is a real biggie for Formula One. Melbourne has returned as the coveted season opener, host to the world’s first look at seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton debuting his new Ferrari red get up while Spain-born Carlos Sainz embraces a fresh Williams blue. And arguably one of the best parts of the AusGP weekend—the end of race track walk—is also back on the cards. Winning.

There’s a reason Jackalope on the Mornington Peninsula is on everyone’s bucket list: from its stunning grounds to unique architectural design, moody black colour palette or funky bar and restaurant, the hotel is the very definition of a luxury stay.

FISHER's Out 2 Lunch Festival with Vodafone is back, and we have the insider scoop on how to grab up presale tickets. 

From situationships to first dates and catch-ups with your mates, here’s how to date differently in 2025. 

We're hosting a first-home buyers pop-up complete with expert property panel, DJs, and a stack of freebies from local vendors. 

Summer might be coming to a close, but there’s no need to go thirsty.

As the temperature rises and summer holidays get into full swing, it’s time to hit the pool. Here’s our list of the best places to make a splash this summer.

We’re calling it a touchdown. Further cementing Melbourne as Australia’s sporting capital, next year we’re going to be able to catch live NFL games. Yep, American football—the National Football League—a la Travis Kelce is coming to us live.

Returning to where it all started Jurassic World: The Exhibition is pipelining for Melbourne with some raving reviews following its massive season in Sydney. 

Love languages were conceived over 30 years ago to help couples better show up for each other, but the internet’s fascination with relationship optimisation has thrust these five acts back into the cultural zeitgeist.

Sail through the slew of new year birthdays and anniversaries with these tips for budget-friendly celebrating.

Ever wanted to live out your very own White Lotus experience but without the murder mystery? Three Hummock Island, a private island off the Tassie coast might be just the spot to do it—best of all you can rent it for pittance. 

The Super Bowl is a big deal, and whether or not you're into American sport you can't help but get caught up in the fever, the chicken wings and of course the drama.

We'll show you how to ace the off-court scene by serving up Melbourne's best during the Australian Open

It's something that Melburnians can take deep pride in, other states might have the weather but our bustling late-night music culture and good-time mentality is second to none in this country. 

The sight of the blossoming purple flowers of the Jacaranda trees is a friendly reminder that the true frosty season is over and there are warmer climates ahead. The Jacaranda is typically earmarked with the coming of summer and Christmas (according to the jingle). The floral tree is an Australian icon in the plant community and a welcome beacon to the tail end of the year. 

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 2025 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.

Remember when an adventurous night out meant a couple of lukewarm pints in a pub that was two suburbs away from your house? Not anymore. Now, it’s all about Melbourne's escape rooms.

Go karting is a timeless activity. The almost child-like pursuit of speed and reckless endangerment is a thrill that you can’t (and shouldn’t) get driving to coles. With many tracks and karts around town, all with their own different bends and different levels of engine CC’s, it can be a little difficult to know where exactly you should burn rubber. 

The Lunar New Year is fast approaching and 2025 is the year of the Wood Snake, which symbolises wisdom, transformation, stability and creativity and we're here to learn and grow, and celebrate.

From 4WDing amongst exotic animals to tackling river rapids, there’s no shortage of active experiences in Melbourne to fill your calendar with. 

We’ve sussed out everything you need to know to ensure you’re ready to hit the the ground running in 2025.

With a jam-packed schedule of Christmas-themed activities kicking off in early November, a huge range of gifting options and a fresh dining precinct, Highpoint is the spot to beat in Melbourne this summer. 

In a monumental celebration of contemporary art, NGV International is hosting the largest-ever retrospective of iconic Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Featuring over 180 works, this expansive exhibition spans Kusama’s extraordinary eight-decade career, making it a global first and an unmissable event.

The High Country means something different to every Victorian. Maybe it’s fond memories camping at Sheepyard Flat over Christmas as a kid, or skiing at Hotham when the powder is heaving. Best of all, there's something for everyone so we've put together a solid travel guide and three-day itinerary for your next country escape.

Ah, Christmas—the season of sparkly lights, festive tunes and a to-do list longer than Santa’s. Between finding the perfect gift, planning events that scream “holiday spirit” and navigating the chaos of end of year celebrations, it’s easy to feel like an overworked elf. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you shop, explore and eat your way to a stress-free December 25th.

Melbourne loves to make a big deal of things—think laneways and the metro rail project—and fortunately for us, Christmas falls into that category of ‘things’. Kicking off at the end of the month is the City of Melbourne’s four-week-long Christmas Festival set to take over the city.

It’s that time of year again where Melbourne welcomes Moonlight Cinema back for its 28th summer. Returning to their usual turf—the Botanic Gardens Friday 29 November 2024. This annual cinematic tradition has multiple flicks to feast your eyes on. 

No matter the health of your post-silly season wallet or your ability to swindle that extra week of leave, these 2025 travel trends will ensure that the next holiday in your calendar is one to remember.

Every city has something to offer, so we’ve leaned on our editors to give you those juicy, affordable recommendations.

Known for its sprawling mansions, thriving entertainment industry and palm-studded streets, Los Angeles is a natural celebrity habitat. To give you the best chance of clapping eyes on Hollywood’s rich and famous, we uncovered 10 of the top spots for VIP sightings. 

Grab your camera team, because Sony Scene Festival just made a massive return to Australian shores. They've lined up over 120 events from a crew of Sony digital imaging ambassadors and industry experts, bringing the creative events platform to the masses.

Winter’s finally packing up and the lure of an outdoor getaway has never been stronger.

Tucked away in the lush, tranquil Otway Ranges, just a stone’s throw from the legendary Great Ocean Road, there’s a slice of nature that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a fairy tale

Everoyne's favourite train is running a late timetable this spring, with Twilight Trains choo chooing us into the balmy evenings ahead and making room for plenty of Instagrammable moments. 

If you’re up the top end of the Sunshine Coast and looking for things to do in the bustling hub that is Noosa, we’ve got you covered.

To the delight of Melburnians and Sydneysiders, Westinghouse is back on its mission to serve free food to hungry crowds.

This month, more than 250 works from the visionary Czech artist will take over the Art Gallery of New South Wales for Alphonse Mucha: Spirit Of Nouveau, the biggest solo exhibition of the legendary artist's work in the Southern Hemisphere.

From the same crew that brought us So Frenchy, So Chic, tuck into 110 wines from 13 wine regions at Le Grape Escape in St Kilda's historic Town Hall.

Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses, has landed at the Gallery Of Modern Art (GOMA) and it’s jaw-droppingly good, so there’s never been a better time to book a sneaky getaway to our northern neighbour. 

Big swing, all ding! The suburbs are set for another cracking entertainment venue, this time in the form of an indoor golf simulator. X-Golf is moving into Clyde North on August 21 and will provide a sports entertainment hybrid with a big food and drink offering. 

Those frosty mornings and dark arvos have well and truly hit, and suddenly rolling out of bed for that 6am HIIT class seems impossible. We've teamed up with our mates at Battery World to bring you the ultimate guide to not just surviving, but absolutely thriving in Melbourne this winter.

With one of the biggest days on Sydney’s event calendar just around the corner, join Urban List's City2Surf Run Club as we train to look and feel our best—from the start line all the way through to the inevitable kick ons.

To help you get out there in the colder months, we teamed up with Kathmandu to uncover a fresh slew of outdoor activities that'll fend off the frost. 

Clear your calendars for a night of daringly dark jokes from the depths of humour as The Kraken Black Spiced Rum's Darkest Show returns for a second year. This time with Rhys Nicholson, Anne Edmonds, Greg Larsen, and Daniel Muggleton at the helm. 

We’re looking to level up our holidays and train travel is absolutely at the top of our list.

The NGV Winter Masterpieces announcement is always a highly anticipated affair, in the past few years we've seen massive unveilings from a complete Picasso exploration, a journey through French Impressionism and more. 

Getting out and pounding the pavement and mixing up your environments is a bloody good way to refresh the body and the mind. There are plenty of ripper trails and paths across the city that’ll give you some great vistas of Melbourne and show off some of its most pristine stretches and undiscovered spots.

In the small town of Moama just on the outside of the Victorian border sits a stretch of the Murray river that holds a long and special history. 

Dig out the CamelBak you bought in 2001, invest in some super tough band aids, and drop your adventure pin on any of Australia's best hikes and walks. 

Whether you’re looking for an eventful vacation or a leisurely cruise along the shore, there’s a road trip across this spectacular country to suit your style.

If you’re ready to laugh your guts out, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival is rolling into town for another year, with three weeks and over 600 shows of non-stop chuckles. We’ve rounded up some of the must-see performances, with comedians from all corners of the globe. Here's our guide to the best shows at Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

The highly anticipated  Australian Grand Prix is returning to the iconic Albert Park this week, and Melbourne’s gone all-out with things to do to get rev-heads in the mood. From themed-cocktails and huge street parties to photography exhibitions and racing simulators , we’ve curated a list of every F1-themed event you can race to.

Here’s a round-up of kid-friendly places to see and things to do in Melbourne CBD. 

We asked our crew to share their top sun safe things to do this summer, from outdoor films to art galleries.

This Friday 8 March, round up your allies and join in on the wide range of events and celebrations for International Women's Day to help break the gender bias. From hospitality events to public speaking panels, all the way to limited-edition nibbles, there is a way for you to be a part of the world-renowned women's rights movement this year. Keep on reading:

Brunswick, or Bulleke-bek in Woi Wurrung language, is the inner-city suburb in Melbourne's northeast, and once a year the entire suburb lights up for the long-loved Brunswick Music Festival. Nine huge days, the festival stands to celebrate the people, place, culture and music of Brunswick. From compelling performances to free live music, here are five things to do this year at the Brunswick Music Festival for 2024:

Keen to experience the best of summer but wanting to mix up that same old dinner party routine?

Missed out on Taylor Swift tickets? It’s your lucky day—Ticketek is releasing a handful of limited tickets today (Tuesday 13 February) at 2pm on the dot, so get ready to feverishly hustle for a golden ticket to The Eras Tour in Melbourne.

Round up the office crew, fire up the competition, and get into the Christmas spirit with these end-of-year party ideas.

This year treat yourself to more Monday-to-Friday fun, and cash in some of that annual leave for a cheeky mid-weeky up the Gold Coast.

Attention all summer beach lovers, The Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Series returns for a massive 11th season in 2024 ready to delight and inspire with stunning agility, skill and team spirit.

Taylor Swift is coming to Melbourne, and the whole city seems to know it. With definitive proof that this is her world and we’re just living in it, there’s everything from cocktail nights to cruises, cookies to the Queen Vic Summer Night Market, completely Taylor-inspired, and best believe it’s all bejewelled. To find out all the details on Queen Taylor’s takeover, keep on scrolling.

These are the best things to eat, drink and do in St Kilda this summer.

If you’re keen to impress your Valentine with a slice of originality this February 14, we’ve teamed up with Timezone to serve up some adrenaline-pumping experiences that’ll have your significant other swooning.

What better time to upgrade on some culture and history and explore what makes Victoria unique. Melbourne newbies can check out the classic Melbourne Museum or locals can head a few hours out to one of the largest surf museums in Australia. Regardless, such interesting niches exist within this state and it would be remiss to not get cracking to at least one museum Melbourne and Victoria have on offer.

Beachside bars, rooftop restaurants and chic shopping are just the start of a great Sydney stay—and this is the ultimate cheat sheet for the savvy traveler, who knows where to stay, what to do, and how to live it up like a local. 

In just a few days time, new-comer FoMo Cinemas in East Brunswick Village is set to pop corn for the first time to debut a new premium approach to the cinema-going experience that celebrates film nostalgia.

Whip out the calendars and mark down 20 January, limited edition Messina ice cream will be popping up in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.

Say hello to Australia's hottest new hotel brand—Hotel Indigo, elevating the style game across the country. With 143 global hotels, the brand’s bringing its boutique vibes to down under with four new chic pads across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide.

Whatever your dream vacay looks like, Village Roadshow Theme Parks has over 120 world-class rides, slides, shows, characters and attractions to choose from.

As we brace ourselves for a scorcher of a summer, nothing seems more enticing than a refreshing dip in the pool. 

We’ve teamed up with Wintjiri Wiru to guide you through the Uluru adventure from sunset to dusk—including the latest addition of a thought-provoking light show

Following an extended season in the US, the closest thing to taking a walk in Jurassic Park has arrived in Melbourne at Dinos Alive, an immersive exhibition featuring 80+ life-sized, animated dinosaurs. 

Here’s everything happening over Brisbane International.

There’s no need to jet off to Europe for a culture fix. Instead, set your sights on Auckland (aka Tāmaki Makaurau) just a short plane ride away. New Zealand’s largest city turns it on over the summer months with a vibrant event line-up encompassing music, art, culture, and all things inspiring.

Taking aim at the conventional candy bar and the tired menu options of larger chains, FoMo is the brand-spanking six-screen cinema with a serious focus on food and film. 

When the weather turns sour and things start to get soggy, as it often does this time of year, it can be hard to find the motivation to leave the house. But just because it’s miserable outside doesn’t mean that you have to be—rainy days can make for some of the best social events if you know where to look. To help you find ways to fill the rainiest of days, we’ve rounded up a list of the best things to do when it’s bucketing down that aren’t just staying home all day.