Winter in Melbourne is more than just icy winds, puffer jackets, AFL and puddles!
There is something truly magical about all the little gems to discover, making embracing winter in this city easy!
Hi, I'm Bianca. I'm a born-and-bred Melburnian passionate about uncovering all the art, culture, adventures, and must-dos in my amazing hometown. You might know me from @biancainmelbourne, where I share it all as I go.
With my trusty Merry People Bobbi Boots on, here’s how I keep inspired — from morning markets to evenings under the stars — during a wintery Melbourne weekend!
Stop 1: Abbotsford Farmers Market
Abbotsford Regional Farmers Market is truly special. You can find delicious pastries, incredible produce and plenty of cute dogs to pat too!
Nestled within the grounds of Abbotsford Convent — a heritage-listed former convent that is now a hub of art, culture and learning — it always has such a warm and relaxed community feel.
With the markets open on the second Saturday of every month, I always look forward to heading down there with my dog Benji.
My Merry People boots are a must for navigating puddles and muddy paws, plus I never forget to bring my umbrella, a tote bag and reusable cup for my iced matcha.
Stop 2: Studley Park Boathouse
Another hidden gem nearby is Studley Park Boathouse, the oldest public boathouse on the Yarra River.
It’s only a few kilometres from the CBD, but you feel like you’re in the countryside!
This is one of my all-time favourite spots in Melbourne. Benji and I LOVE heading down here for a coffee and a walk. It’s also fun to hire a boat and row along the Yarra — lots of splashes and heaps of fun!
The Boathouse also has a winter marquee space with blankets and glowing lights by the water’s edge which is definitely worth checking out if you’re feeling fancy or have friends in from out of town.
Stop 3: Monforte Vennoiserie + Edinburgh Gardens
There’s nothing like a freshly baked pastry in winter, and Monforte Vennoiserie in Carlton North knows how to do it beautifully.
Think wine bar dishes, but reimagined as pastries! They’re all made on site in a tiny pasticceria each day and are created to reflect the produce of each season, ensuring each product is at its most flavourful.
You can’t go past their signature leatherwood honey and sea salt croissant; it’s absolutely delicious and the flavours pair so well together.
We also tried the cardamom and orange morning buns, as well as the Spent coffee and toasted koji buns.
With some tasty food and your favourite friends, a winter picnic is the perfect way to turn a cold day into a cosy one!
Stop 4: Coburg Drive-In
An iconic spot any season, Coburg Drive-In is a great way to mix up date night during winter. It’s nostalgic and romantic — and really budget-friendly.
Plus, Benji came along too, which is a bonus! I packed blankets and pillows to watch Toy Story 5 from the comfort of my car.
I kicked off my Merry People boots after a big day of exploring but slipped them on super easily to head out of the car and across the gravel for more popcorn!
All up, this was one super fun winter weekend. With so much to explore, the brisk temperatures seem much more bearable — plus I stayed warm, top to toasty toe with my Merry People boots!
Bianca's Melbourne Winter Style Tips
Comfort and warmth are key when heading out on a Melbourne winter day when you can get four seasons simultaneously! Here’s how I style my Brick Red Bobbi Boots.
- On a low-key day, I love to keep it simple with jeans and a jumper. It doesn’t have to be a perfect match in colour either, but part of the fun is grabbing tones from the boots and bringing them into the rest of the outfit any way you want.
- White denim jeans are also a favourite piece that really makes the Brick Red Bobbi Boots pop.
- I can never go past pairing my Bobbi Boots with Merry People socks. They are so warm and comfy, and you can play around with the colours.
More Must-See Melbourne Spots
Here are four more spots to warm up your winter.
- Dights Falls Walk: A 4.7km circuit a short distance from the CBD that feels like you’re deep in the countryside.
- Amann Patisserie: A beautiful hole-in-the-wall bakery in Carlton North, with a chef from Brittany in France. Don’t forget to try their maple bacon danish!
- Luther’s Scoops: Delicious and fun flavours by a chef with Michelin-starred creds — try the brown butter cheesecake ice-cream and the cookies.
- Kingpin Melbourne: If you’re wanting to switch things up and stay indoors, this new Kingpin venue in Collins Street, Melbourne has plenty of fun experiences — from karaoke to darts, bowling, billiards, and arcade games.
Get To Know Your Guide
There are very few Melbourne spots Lonely Planet Travel Correspondent Bianca hasn’t discovered! Born-and-bred in Melbourne, her passion for the city sees her uncover exciting – and lesser-known – experiences every day.
With a love for culture, creativity, arts, sport and food, Bianca is passionate about finding — and sharing — the joy in every Melbourne journey!
Discover more of Bianca’s Melbourne adventures here.
