There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the summertime. The layers come off, and it feels criminal to spend any less than 90% of your day outside — sipping coffee, reading in the perfect patch of shade in Carlton Gardens, or lingering in a laneway over a glass of wine.
Mornings start slow, maybe with a wander to one of the city's many (many) bakeries, while afternoons are for art galleries, shopping, or, if you're there at the perfect time, a trip to the Australian Open. And when the sun starts to dip, Melbourne really comes alive — rooftop drinks, late dinners, and nights that stretch far longer than you meant them to. If you ask me, this is a city best experienced in Summer, so consider this a postcard from a perfect January weekend in Melbourne.
Stay...
Having lived in Melbourne’s northern suburbs for several years, they’re always the first place I gravitate back to when I visit. So when The StandardX opened its doors on Fitzroy's Rose Street, it felt like a fitting place to base myself for the weekend. Set among the neighbourhoods I know best, the hotel blends seamlessly into its surroundings, making it easy to slip straight back into the rhythm of the city.
The street is quiet most of the time, but comes alive on Saturdays and Sundays with the Rose Street markets at your doorstep. You're also only a stone's throw away from the hustle and bustle of Brunswick Street, where you'll find and endless array of cafes, restaurants, and incredible shopping.
Despite all that, the rooms are something of a sanctuary — compact but cosy, and thoughtfully fitted out with everything you’d need for a weekend getaway. My room came with a small veranda, which instantly made it feel like a home away from home. Or if you really want to capitalise on the fresh air (and Melbourne's famously unpredictable weather manages to cooperate for a few hours), park up on the rooftop, where you'll find both a pool and bar (aptly named On Top), for whichever mood strikes.
Eat...
Breakfast is not a meal I'm usually excited by, but in Melbourne it's hard not to be. I made the short walk to Mile End Bagels and then retreated back to the balcony in my room to enjoy it. If even that feels like a little too much effort, you'll also find great coffee and goodies like Baker Bleu pastries on the in-room dining menu.
If you find yourself in the neighbourhood around lunchtime, Florian, Morning Market, and Baker Bleu are famous for good reason, specialising in fresh, healthy(ish) bites. In the mood for something heartier? Make your way to Hector's Deli for a chicken sandwich — but be warned, you'll need to be prepared to line up.
If you ask me, dinner is what Melbourne really does best. Make your way to Gertrude street and stop by Builder's Arms for a drink (and perhaps a nibble of their famous flat bread cod roe dip). Then, wander up the tree-lined street to Marion for a veritable feast. The flatbread, steak, and vodka pasta are all must-orders, and if you can score a seat outside on a warm night, you've really hit the jackpot.
Do...
No January weekend in Melbourne would be complete without a little tennis — and the Australian Open is the perfect excuse to soak it all in. Even if you’re not sitting courtside, Grey Goose’s bar at the grounds is a must. There's nothing that says summer quite like an afternoon spent sipping their signature Lemon Ace cocktail, a little people-watching, and a game of tennis going on behind you. It's the perfect zingy refreshment on a hot afternoon.
Shop...
Don't overpack: Melbourne's shopping scene is second-to-none. Over in Collingwood you'll find Pan After and The Hub General Store — both specialising in unique homewares and everyday provisions. Fashion-wise, Somebuddy Loves You and Man are both independent boutiques offering an impeccable selection of local and international labels.
And of course, it wouldn't be a trip to Melbourne without a visit to Mecca's famous flagship. If you can push past the overstimulation, a piercing or a new fragrance is my favourite way to commemorate a special trip.
