Hawthorn

Packed to the gills with foodie spots and pretty shops, private school kids, pristine heritage homes and leafy spaces, Hawthorn satisfies both spirit and stomach. Anchor yourself on Glenferrie Road and explore from there. You’ll want to barrack for the Hawks in these parts – Hawthorn's beloved AFL team.

Something for the spirit

Set your mind to creative, ethical or metaphysical matters. Try an introductory course at the School of Philosophy, and check out iconic Melbourne history at the Tram Museum. Feast your eyes with a film at Lido Cinemas – open-air on the rooftop if you like – and satisfy your ears with some live scats at the Lido Jazz Room.

And spirits …

Sample from Hawthorn’s extensive tasting paddle of pubs and bars. Slide into sleek cocktail bar The Kilburn, where whiskey is the star attraction. Pay homage to Melbourne's Italian heritage with Aperol spritz and cicheti at Vaporetto – cin cin! For elegant libations, Luton Lane Wine Bar convinces with 100-plus bottles and a food menu that's almost as competitive.

Coffee and beyond

Faced with more cafes than you can shake an AeroPress at, you can't go wrong. Try coffee and brunch at Light Years, Short Straw, Porgie and Mr Jones, and Liar Liar. Pick up a bag of beans with your espresso at cafe-roasteries Axil Coffee Roasters, then bring it all together with a bang-up burger at Melbourne's fav Huxtaburger, and sweeten the deal with a refreshing gelato from Piccolina.

Treat yourself

You'll want to look – and smell – your best when moving among Hawthorn’s denizens. Spray away at fine perfume purveyers Peony. Slip on a print top or pair of pants from Hokey Curator. Browse the Hawthorn Makers Market for bespoke artisan goods, find a gripping tale or two at Melbourne's legendary bookshop Readings, then splurge on top-shelf whiskey or bubbles at expert bottle-shop Small Patch.