David Bowie, camping on a skyscraper and more coffee shops than can you can possibly imagine: no wonder we're planning a trip to sunny Melbs. It's a city packed with choices, so this week we've helped narrow it down – here's where to sleep, drink and hang out.
Stay: St Jerome's: The Hotel
Love Instagramming your breakfast in bed? Stop being so smug! Although we'll just about forgive you if it's breakfast in bed, in a tipi tent, on the roof of a Melbourne skyscraper.
Yep, thanks to a new 'hotel' opening in Melbourne, you can do just that. This luxe campsite comes complete with bathrobes (but no bath, sorry), bulging breakfast hampers delivered directly to your double bed and free tai chi and meditation sessions in the morning. Some advice: don't look down. stjeromesthehotel.com.au
Atomica Caffé
It’s a bit rough around the edges, with peeling paint and scruffy decor, but you’d expect that in Fitzroy. Atomica Caffé fits right in with the vintage and design shops on Brunswick Street, but don’t let that distract you from the fact this place has a heck of a reputation for its beans.
Breakfast in bed, in a tent, on the roof of a skyscraper…
Roasting custom mixes on-site twice a week, Atomica delivers the goods without frills, keeping flavour squarely in focus. There are hundreds of cool coffee shops to choose from in Melbourne, but this place gets our vote. atomicacoffee.com.au
Federation Square
Federation Square is a great place for hanging out in the city. Definitely check out the David Bowie is exhibition, or if that doesn't appeal, make the most of the free guided tours of the square, fitness classes and the mind boggling selection of cafes and shops. Be sure to visit the Federation Story, a free exhibition detailing Australia's history. fedsquare.com
Qantas offers return economy fares from London Heathrow to Melbourne from £738; price is valid until 3 September unless sold out before. Visit the website for more information, qantas.com
To read our full coffee lover's guide to Melbourne, head here.
