The cultural capital of Australia is a great place to visit any time of the year – but when summer arrives, Melbourne truly brings its ‘A’ game.

During the sunny season, the city plays host to an incredible array of activities, thanks to longer days and balmy temperatures.

So if you’re stopping off in Melbourne, here’s what you can get set to enjoy in the stunning summer months.

Eat your way around Queen Vic Market

Every Wednesday night, surround yourself with amazing food, drink and fun at Melbourne’s Queen Vic Summer Night Market. From November to March, this iconic institution comes alive after dark to give summer shoppers even more time to enjoy 100 specialty shopping stalls, live music acts, festival bars and 60 global street food stalls. Choose from the likes sticky BBQ ribs, sweet stuffed ricotta cannoli or sugar-coated American doughnut balls while perusing the myriad of stalls.

 
All aboard Melbourne’s floating bar! We’ve had hidden and rooftop, but this summer, Melbourne is going one better with the return of its epic floating bar. The team behind popular outdoor eatery Arbory Bar and Eatery are once again treating guests to a sun-drenched drinking session with a difference. The floating platform boasts unbeatable 360-degree views of the CBD skyline as well as the Yarra River itself. Better yet, the bar offers a delectable range of fruit-laden cocktails, bespoke European gin creations and a Mediterranean-inspired wine list which encapsulates the ‘sipping pretty’ ideal to a tee. Peckish? Guests can dig into a seafood-driven menu that welcomes the Italian share plate mentality. Think wood-fired foccacias, fresh oysters and antipasto platters. If you’re a fan of unique drinking experiences, this is one bar you’ll want to be onboard with.
Rub shoulders with tennis greats at the Australian Open Between 14-27 January, Melbourne will once again play host to one of sport’s biggest tournaments: the Australian Open. Here, some of tennis’ biggest names will battle it out to take home the coveted trophy. World No.1 Simona Halep will head up the women’s field, while Serena Williams will make her highly anticipated return to Melbourne for the first time since winning in 2017. On the male side of the court, Nadal, Murray and Federer will all serve their superstar swings while eager fans watch from the stands. With strawberries and cream at the ready, get set to enjoy a summer of fantastic sporting action!

With so much to see and do in and around Melbourne this summer, make sure you’ve got the best transport to get you there. Get in touch with the team at East Coast Car Rentals today to see how we can help!