Melbourne is Australia’s cultural and artistic capital, its side streets bristle with tiny cafes and bars, and you can lose yourself in its compact attractions. Whether you venture north of the river for bohemian distractions, or head south to the gay heart of Commercial Road for clubbing, Melbourne has something for every day tripper.

Eat

Red Tongue

Located in the heart of Fitzroy’s Brunswick Street, Red Tongue is ideally located for a casual coffee or an intimate dinner. Smokers can enjoy the street-side tables, a perfect vantage point to watch the bold and beautiful parade by in this iconic bohemian precinct. And right now you can tuck into Red Tongue’s winter-warming Sunday roast! 275 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy. (03) 9415 9244. Tram 112 from Collins Street, Stop 16.

Drink

Libation

Just down the road from Red Tongue is Libation, one of the coolest spots for queers who enjoy a drink in a relaxed but sophisticated setting. Chill out in the back-room lounge with music piped through from the onsite DJ. Sunday afternoons are the place to be for women and friends. 302 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy. (03) 9416 5302. Tram 112 from Collins Street, Stop 16.

Club

The Market

Commercial Road boasts a string of GLBT nightclubs, including the Xchange, Priscilla’s, Heaven’s Door and The Market. With one of the best sound systems in Melbourne, and regularly featuring international artists, The Market has a reputation for clubbing excellence. Dance the night away or watch the dancefloor action from the second floor balcony. Open Fridays and Saturdays. 143 Commercial Road, South Yarra. (03) 9826 0933.

Play

National Gallery of Victoria

The immense basalt block of the NGV sits just behind the Arts Centre’s spire. It’s a short walk from the City centre over Princes Bridge. Boasting permanent art collections that span 13th century European through to contemporary Australian works, the NGV is currently home to a major exhibition of the surrealist Salvador Dalí – the first comprehensive retrospective to visit Australia. 180 St Kilda Road, City. (03) 8620 2222.

Stay

Cosmopolitan Hotel

Melbourne has an abundance of hotels in all price ranges, but on your next visit you should check out the newly-renovated Cosmopolitan Hotel. Located in the heart of trendy St Kilda on the doorstep of Luna Park, The Esplanade, St Kilda Arts Markets, St Kilda Beach and Melbourne's finest restaurants and shops, the Cosmopolitan Hotel stands out with its boutique interiors and great value for money. With Trams almost at the door, getting around is easy and you will certainly be made to feel very welcome by the friendly and efficient staff. Rooms start at $135 per night. 2-8 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Beach. (03) 9534 0781. cosmopolitanhotel.com.au