Trendsetters take note: Windsor is reportedly the “new playground of the urban hipster.”

Begin with a spot of shopping—Plane carries high-quality fashion staples for both sexes, while The Windsor Annex is known for its casual daywear outfits. For the perfect suit (“one of the best fits in the country”), head to P. Johnson, which also stocks off-the-rack shirts and ties.

Have a weakness for retro fashion? Vintage lovers will have fun treasure hunting in Vintage Sole and Shag.

Next, catch a classic or current movie at the single-screen Astor Theatre. At this Art Deco theatre, every movie-going day is an eclectic cinematic adventure. Depending on the theme of the day, you could find yourself immersed in Spike Lee’s latest offering BlacKkKlansman, chick flicks such as Clueless and Mean Girls, or sci-fi classics such as Aliens and Blade Runner.

Looking for things to do in Melbourne at night? The nightlife scene in Windsor can be equally exhilarating.

Asian food features prominently in the neighbourhood—Tokyo Tina, House of Hoi An, and Red Door Yum Cha have all been namechecked on Broadsheet’s “best of Windsor” list. Cafe dwellers and bar hoppers will appreciate the variety here too.

For the best of both dining and drinking worlds, head to Boston Sub for a quick dinner, followed by a walk through the cool-room door behind the sandwich counter to enter Jungle Boy, a hidden cocktail bar.

Live music fans: Northcote is where you need to be.

To watch up-and-coming acts, head to the Northcote Social Club—this was where the Grammy-nominated Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett cut her teeth when she was still a relative unknown. The club’s 300-capacity band room has also hosted “secret gigs” by luminaries such as Lady Gaga and The Pixies.

Other places to spot musical talent include Open Studio (also a crêperie), Wesley Anne (a former church-turned-pub, “old and character-filled”), and 303 (eclectic live music and film nights).

Northcote was also once heralded as Australia’s “country music capital.” Spend enough time in one of its bars or cafes, and you may have the good fortune of rubbing shoulders with an aspiring or veteran country music songwriter.

More hippie than hipster, Brunswick attracts free-spirited individuals who are not afraid to flout convention.

“Brunswick is a delightful mecca of diversity and inclusivity,” says Ellen Hookey, a tour leader at Urban Adventures, which runs day tours in Melbourne. “Everyone feels free to wear what they want and express themselves in very different ways, which gives the suburb a beautiful sense of freedom.” Read her Brunswick guide for a recommended itinerary, or contact Urban Adventures to arrange a customised tour.

Australian singer-songwriter Kate Ceberano recommends spending time at the charming Elsternwick suburb. Her favourite haunts include Classic Cinemas (“quality mainstream” and arthouse cinema) and the adjoining After The Tears (“the most delicious beetroot salad and savoury pierogi dumplings”), as well as 48H (pizzeria and “gnoccheria”) and Ripponlea (restaurant and cocktail bar).

To eat, drink, and watch the world go by, heed the advice of Masterchef Australia judge Gary Mehigan and head to Malvern, where you can unwind at the Milton Wine Shop and Riserva, or enjoy “fabulous coffee” at Coffee & Soul and Millstone. Or save this guide for more suburban secrets, as dished out by local personalities.

Welcome to Melbourne! Need more information on Melbourne attractions, or accommodation advice? Speak to our friendly team at Pan Pacific Melbourne.