Monocle

With its picture-perfect terrace houses, enviable cachet of cultural hotspots and more sleek coffee shops than you can shake a bag of finely ground beans at, it’s little wonder that Melburnians regularly claim their bayside city to be the most liveable in the world. Add to the mix a first-rate food scene and an abounding wine region on its doorstep and you may just find yourself agreeing with them. We’ll give you plenty of reasons to hit the streets come rain or shine.

• Secret locations: In most cities, a venue that’s tucked away down a shady alley or up neverending flights of stairs may find it difficult to attract footfall. But in Melbourne the harder the place is to find, the better.
• Numbers game: Melbourne’s CBD follows a standard grid format but streets outside of these ordered city blocks stretch on, passing through several neighbourhoods. And, upon entering a new suburb, the numbers reset.
• Café culture: Working in a café in Melbourne is a coveted career choice. In fact, these well-paid positions attract talented and enthusiastic staff who are likely highly trained baristas.
• A little tip: Hospitality wages are excellent here but if the service is outstanding it’s polite to round up the bill or add 10 to 15 per cent.
• Weather: Melbourne’s weather can be notoriously fickle. Pack layers that both combat cold snaps and protect you from the searing sun, as well as an umbrella to keep yourself dry.