Ditch the couch this winter and explore Melbourne and Victoria

DITCH the couch, rug and fire — Melbourne has heaps to offer as the mercury drops and winter arrives.

AS THE mercury drops and the rain sits in, Melburnians can’t be blamed for wanting to snuggle up on the couch under a doona and snooze the weekend away.

But as comfortable and cozy that sounds — you’d be missing out on the winter wonderland that this city, and surrounding areas provides.

Sport

WE are the self proclaimed sporting capital of the world and it’s not winter unless you attend at least one game of whichever football code takes your fancy.

There’s nothing better than watching your team win, proudly wrapped up in your team scarf and beanie and getting stuck into a hot pie.

One member of the crowd prepares for the cold weather

Art

RATHER fittingly van Gogh and the Seasons is being presented at the National Gallery of Victoria until July 9. Explore van Gogh’s connection to nature through nearly 50 paintings and drawings, many of which depict places that were the setting for defining moments in the artist’s tumultuous life.

Leader competition: Friday Nights at the NGV

WITH so many amazing stage shows on in town at the moment, from Aladdin to Book of Mormon, why not take the opportunity to venture into one of Melbourne’s old theatres, take in the atmosphere and history and enjoy a show.

Disney Theatrical Productions under the direction of Thomas Schumacher presents Aladdin.

Eat

There has to be nothing better than to indulge in a Devonshire tea up in the Dandenong Ranges over winter. Snuggle up by the fire and enjoy the breathtaking views as you warm up with a cup of tea and delicious, fluffy scones.

Scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream, served with a cup of tea.

Markets

A FAVOURITE for many Melburnians, the Queen Victoria Market “Winter Night Markets” will return from June 9. Visitors will be welcomed with crackling fires, mulled wine and a revolving line-up of roving entertainers and live music while they explore their way through a global feast of street vendors and stalls.

Winter Night Market at Queen Vic Market.

FARMERS markets are often a popular feature of a good weather weekend, but don’t let the rain or cold put you off. Numerous markets are held across the state on weekends and show off the best local produce and bargains. Plus, they always have a coffee van and delightful warm treats to keep you warm.

Golden Plains' Farmers Market in Bannockburn.

Something different

ICE SKATING is something most affiliate with our cousins in the US, but Federation Square is bringing back their riverrink from July 1.

A temporary ice skating rink like this one at Fed Square could be set up on the Sorrento foreshore. Picture: Supplied

FIREWORKS don’t spring to mind when you think Melbourne and winter, but Docklands Winter Fireworks start in July.

Fireworks display over Victoria Harbour at 9:45pm. Picture: Mike Keating

What are your favourite things to do in Melbourne during winter?

@melissameehanau