A Melbourne Itinerary - our cultural guide

Indulge in a one-of-a-kind breakfast experience at Lune Croissanterie, whilst you observe the art of creation. Enjoy the ultimate freshly-made croissant at one of Melbourne's locations including Armidale, Fitzroy and Melbourne CBD. 

From flaky traditional croissants that melt in your mouth, to chocolate treats or salted caramel delights, there’s bound to be a flavour to surprise your taste buds. If you want to take your breakfast experience to the next level, indulge in an exclusive booking-only experience of taste with the Lune Lab in Fitzroy. Lune aims to provide an exclusive and unforgettable experience of European taste with a hint of Australian culture.

Wander through the National Gallery of Victoria and explore its seasonal exhibitions. Running till the 29th of January 2023 between 10 am and 5 pm daily explore the current Mecca X NGV women in design commission by Tatiana Bilbao, showcasing architectural design that stimulates social change. 

The artworks challenge the ideas about unpaid labour, gender politics, sustainability and care, represented by Tatiana Bilbao's instillation of La ropa sucia se lava en casa. Experience the ever-changing culture and Australian historical context as you explore stories told by art. 

Indulge in a simple yet decadent lunch at Greta, a European-inspired sandwich and wine bar off the iconic Flinders Lane. With an elegant backhouse atmosphere decorated with olive and mustard tones, treat your taste buds to mouthwatering sandwiches and European bistro classics representing elegance in its simplest form. 

Recommended from the menu is the cheek and vino, consisting of beef cheek and Napoli dip served with a class of “very good” wine to cure your hunger. The unique menu confidently offers only three sandwiches. Whilst this is a simple dining experience run by the Mariani siblings, this exclusive offering is not one to be missed alongside the maverick and mayday coffee. 

When visiting Melbourne, it is essential to partake in a shopping spree at the iconic Flinders Lane boutiques. Filled with exclusive unique boutiques, designer brands and local luxury products, experience the fashion culture of Melbourne and refresh your style with the new season. With exclusive designer stores such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Jack London, Cinori Shoes, Miss Louise and many more, you'll have more to do than just window-shop.

Wander over to the Emporium Melbourne to shop the best of exclusive Australian luxury brands and big international names. Shop till you drop at Aje, Alice McCall, bassike, Bec and Bridge, Camilla, Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren and Sass and Bide to name a few. Treat yourself to something sparkly and new with fine jewellers such as APM Monaco, Georg Jensen and Swarovski. With such an array of stores to explore, you won't want your shopping experience to come to an end.

Indulge in a degustation at Chancery Lane, showcasing some of the finest seasonal ingredients prepared with traditional European cuisine techniques. Found in the historic Normanby Chambers building, Chancery Lane offers a classic bistro experience with an edge. 

Immerse yourself in an ambiance recreating the decadent, bygone era as you indulge in a menu of classic creations with a modern touch. Incorporating the finest seasonal ingredients matched with European cooking techniques, you're guaranteed to experience a food affair like no other. Treat yourself to caviar, seafood platters and charcuterie, or indulge in a main of ricotta gnocchi, mushrooms and beurre noisette. With exceptional service, blended with great food, you are guaranteed to enjoy a meal like no other.

Be transported back in time at Bar Margaux where tradition and modern elegance combine, creating an exclusive experience with a relaxed ambience. Enjoy French comfort through food, cocktails and wine until the early hours of the morning. Enjoy award-winning hospitality and produce as you sip on dessert cocktails,  sparkling wine or champagne. Complement your bar experience with a selection of hors d’oeuvres, le plat principal and les garnitures. No matter if you're sitting at a booth or the bar, expect exceptional service for a night of European luxury.

Located on level 35 of the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, indulge in curated cocktails or an after-dinner drink at the exclusive Atrium Bar on 35. Sip on bountiful, balanced and flavourful cocktails from a carefully crafted menu that transports you back to the 40s and 50s bar scene. With wine flight samplers, enjoy an array of sparking, red or white wines from the 35th floor. If you're looking for a très chic weekend adventure with more than 10 people, indulge with the celebrate me package, offering an exclusive personalised cocktail menu inspired by a famous French fashion house and as shared in Vogue.

Relax and unwind at Sofitel on Collins Melbourne for a luxurious weekend escape. Experience the best in culture, wellness and gastronomy as you explore elegant hotel facilities. Immerse yourself in local customs and traditions and you'll find yourself in an atmosphere where international culture meets local home comforts. Indulge in the Prestige Suite and enjoy a magnificent corner room, offering full city views and access to exclusive Club Sofitel, an elevated space to lounge, relax and dine, offering executive breakfasts, pre-dinner drinks and canapés. Enjoy the little luxuries in life with Balmain Pairs couture hair and bath amenities, Nespresso pod coffee and fluffy Sofitel slippers and bathrobe. With a separate living room for family dinners and a lounge area, you can relax in tranquillity.

 With the comfort of Sofitel MyBed you can tailor your bedding to your preference for the perfect night's sleep. Take a relaxed approach to your morning routine, a hot shower in the elegant bathroom with marble fittings, or perhaps a quiet moment with a barista-made coffee whilst enjoying the floor-to-ceiling views out to central Melbourne below.  

Devour a European-inspired breakfast from the laneways of Melbourne at Hardware Société, bringing a new experience to breakfast. Immerse yourself in café-style dining from a booth or traditional table setting as you are waited on by friendly staff. Indulge in their mouthwatering menu with favourites such as the continental, consisting of lemon curd yoghurt, house-made granola, orange and lychee jelly alongside a via porta croissant. 

If you’re one for traditional favourites, treat your taste buds to an Eggs Benedict with a twist - incorporating coffee-rubbed smoked chicken or scrambled eggs with roasted chorizo, Danish and ricotta salata. Complement your meal with a barista-made coffee by market lane, homemade ice tea, organic cold-pressed juices or an array of teas by the pot. Perhaps you prefer to add some sparkle to the most important meal of the day with brunch cocktails, mimosas, European bottled beers or ciders to elevate your experience.

Experience the magic and excitement of the previously sold-out musical Moulin Rouge throughout August 2023. Immerse yourself in a world of splendour and romance with a hint of glitz, grandeur and glory, inviting you to pop the champagne in preparation for the European-inspired spectacular. Experience the best of theatre tradition, with chic ambience, grand chandeliers, and red velvet curtains setting the scene perfectly.

After a full morning of theatre entertainment and culture, cure your hunger in style with a decedent luxury experience with High Tea at No35. Available every Sunday, feast on decadent sweets such as gateau opera, berry panna cotta, chocolate bonbons, macarons and milk chocolate and cherry bombe. 

There are savoury options too including sandwiches like cucumber and cream cheese, artisan smoked ham with wholegrain mustard and roast beef with horseradish cream. Of course, it wouldn't be high tea without soft scones served with clotted cream and assorted jams. Complete your three-tiered high-tea experience with a glass of sparkling wine on arrival, followed by your choice of tea or coffee. With exclusive views of the Melbourne skyline, dine in style with a European touch to cure your cravings.

Explore Melbourne's iconic St Kilda as you walk along the seashore and explore the unique boutique stores, cafes, or Luna Park's house of fun. St Kilda holds the best of live music and entertainment as well as breathtaking heritage venues. Feel a part of the community with the Sunday markets along the esplanade showcasing local arts and crafts whilst you take in the magnificent seaside views. 

Experience a thrill at the iconic Luna Park with traditional rides, and dont forget to get a photo under the historic grand park entry. Add authenticity to your adventure with a traditional tram experience to get to and from the hotel. With plenty to explore in St Kilda, you'll count it as a highlight of your getaway.