Melbourne: When To Go

Peak Season: December to February Like much of Australia, Melbourne’s high season runs from December to January. With many local Aussies on annual leave, accommodations fill up quickly, so book ahead. The city is also prone to hot spells during this period, with the mercury climbing into the 90s. But with average daytime temperatures in the mid-to-high 70s, it’s a great time to hit the beach.

Off Season: June to August With average winter temperatures between 43 and 55 degrees, Melbourne is much colder than its neighbors further north in Sydney or Brisbane. But Melbourne does two things very well: the arts and winter. So, with plenty of good deals on accommodations on offer, grab a sturdy coat and a café latte and prepare to discover the city’s thriving cultural scene.

Sweet Spot: March to May; September to November The best time to visit Melbourne is during the spring (September-November) and fall (March-May). Days tend to be clearer and the extremes of heat and cold are kept at bay, as are high room rates. Fall sees the city’s parks turn various shades of amber, while spring brings out the flowers and makes its mark with the horse race that stops the nation – the Melbourne Cup (held the first Tuesday in November).