As the days become shorter and the weather cools, Melburnians dust off their coats and ready themselves for brisk mornings, chilly afternoons and evenings in the cold.

Footy, footy and more footy…

Australian rules football takes centre stage across winter, as Melburnians don their team colours for the most talked about topic in town - the battle for the AFL premiership.

Masses at Etihad Stadium or the Melbourne Cricket Ground create an atmosphere that has to be experienced first hand, as passionate fans cheers on their idols. For visitors not making it to the ground, one of Melbourne’s iconic pubs can be just as good a setting with action playing out on the big screen over a pint of craft beer.

Wind your way through the regions…

Local markets, an abundance of decadent food and wine and natural experiences as green as green can be. What more could visitors ask for from an escape to Victoria’s regions this winter?

Victoria boasts an endless array of touring routes to fill a weekend or week-long getaway, with Ballarat, the Great Ocean Road, the Yarra Valley, Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges among those to welcome visitors year round.

Head north to the high country…

Pack your skis and head for the snowfields as snow brings Victoria’s alps to life with bunnies of a different kind.

Mt Buller, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek are among the locations to tackle a black run, with accommodation, dining and event experiences for the whole family ensuring a trip to remember.

Dine by an open fire…

The addition of an open fire to any dining experience in winter brings a warmth that no hot meal can achieve. From Allpress Espresso and Bluebonnet Barbecue, to the Local Taphouse, L’Hotel Gitan and Donovans, Melburnians are spoiled for choice.

Article originally written by Visit Victoria