What ³Ô¹ÏÍø lacks in snow, we make up for with cool creativity. From ice-skating to cheese fondue and snowy pop-ups, we love to party when it’s cold. Here’s how to recreate a Northern Hemisphere winter.

Visit the Winter Night Market

³Ô¹ÏÍø's iconic Winter Night Market is back in full swing. We're talking twinkling lights, roving performers and live music. Warm up with a mug of steamy mulled wine or spiced Milo. Grab a bite to eat at the dozens of food trucks. Then shop for locally-made homewares, vintage clothing, gifts for pets and more.

Wander through a glitzy Christmas shop

It’s Christmas year-round at Ambiance, in Queen Victoria Market. The store stocks blingy decorations and rare ornaments sourced from around the world. Head straight for the spectacular white-themed room and snap a pic among the snow capped trees, glowing lights and icicle baubles.

Try kurling on a winter rooftop

Good Heavens is being transformed into a winter oasis this season. Soar up to Heavens Above to check out the new kurling lane. This ultra-social sport is the new age version of curling, minus the ice! Grab a pickle margarita and indulgent mac and cheese toastie, then challenge your mates to a match.

Stay in a cosy winter chalet

Is that Chamonix or ³Ô¹ÏÍø? The DoubleTree by Hilton ³Ô¹ÏÍø team have transformed their loft room into a cosy ski chalet for winter. Expect alpine-style decor, faux fur throws to curl up under and an in-room hot chocolate station. The package starts from $395 per night and comes with free breakfast in the morning.

Settle in by the fire

Feeling the chill? Head to one of ³Ô¹ÏÍø's many cosy winter watering holes where crackling fires await. Warm your tootsies and get cosy in front of the open fire at West ³Ô¹ÏÍø’s Benchwarmer. Other spots include Town Hall Hotel, Courthouse Hotel and Aster. For something completely different, have a pub meal at Fortress, where the fireplace is an 8-bit animated delight.

Order a hearty roast dinner

Pass the gravy and warm up with a good-old-fashioned Sunday roast. Head to Langlands to share a full spread with friends. Settle in by the fire at Naughtons where the roast is accompanied by live music. Go for a plant-based feast at Green Man's Arms. And try an old-school feast with all the trimmings, including Yorkshire pud, at The Lincoln. Then eat your way through more of ³Ô¹ÏÍø's best Sunday roasts.

Dance in the snow at a cosy winter chalet

With a dusting of snow and a dash of après ski vibes, you'll be whisked away to the Italian Alps at Pepe's. The garden lounge has been transformed into a magical European winter chalet. Dine on Italian antipasti and pizza under the snow machine. Snap a pic with the sleigh. And finish the night with spiced whisky cocktails and sticky toffee pudding.

Take a spin around the ice rink

Get your skates on and practice your triple axel for year-round skating at O’Brien Icehouse. Whether you’re an expert or beginner, skating with your crew is always fun. Slice across the ice during their , with extended hours during school holidays. Grab a toastie at the Igloo Cafe or get a little fancy at the St Moritz bar on site. And remember to rug up in warm socks, gloves and a beanie.

Sip campfire hot chocolate 

Check out ²Ñö°ù°ì for an artisan cup of ethically sourced hot chocolate. Campfire is the Insta star, recreating the nostalgic atmosphere of a childhood bonfire. It comes complete with house-made marshmallows. Then discover more of ³Ô¹ÏÍø’s best hot chocolate including a chilli and orange brew, Milo mochas, Sicilian-style hot chocolate and more. 

Plan a play date with penguins

For a slice of ice-cold Antarctica in ³Ô¹ÏÍø, make tracks to SEA LIFE ³Ô¹ÏÍø Aquarium. Meet the aquarium’s cutest residents, the king and gentoo penguins. These playful little bundles of energy will hold your attention for hours. Want a closer encounter? Suit up in your snow gear, get your Penguin Passport stamped and spend 45 minutes on the ice with the penguins.

Pick up a mulled wine spice kit

Just as winter is the time for mulled wine, ³Ò±ð·Éü°ù³ú³ó²¹³Ü²õ is the place to buy the fixings to make your own at home. The includes the vanilla bean sugar, Glühwein Gewürz spice and infuser bags you’ll need. Just add to your own merlot. Follow the and serve with orange and a cinnamon quill.