Discover Melbourne's cultural heart this winter

Friday afternoon

The newest luxury hotel is Crown Metropol, the perfect place for a romantic rendezvous. On the banks of the Yarra, it has indulgent spa retreat rooms with stunning views of the city for the ultimate pampering break. Downstairs, the good taste continues at Gordon Ramsay's Maze with its European-inspired menu. After dinner, take a stroll along river and sit outside at Left Bank where you can enjoy a glass of wine while watching the people pass by.

Saturday morning

Stroll among the beautiful books and gifts at the store, then take a seat at Gallery Kitchen in the NGV. Serving simple breakfast selections – ciabatta toasties, croissants and bagels – it will have you refuelled and ready to explore the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition, European Masters: Städel Museum, 19th-20th Century. Glorious pieces by some of the world's most famous artists including Degas, Cézanne and Monet, as well as rarely seen work by the likes of Munch and Beckmann, will be on show at NGV International.

Saturday afternoon

After feasting on classic fare at Self Preservation, you can peruse the locally produced and vintage jewellery on display at the back of the dwelling. It's just a stroll from here to the Paris end of Collins Street. Australian jewellery designer Jan Logan has her store here, as do many of the world's top luxe labels, including Prada, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci.

Saturday night

Hidden from the city bustle is the intimate, rustic Von Haus, where you'll feel as if you've entered another time. This is the place to share a glass or two of excellent Spanish wine, a bowl of whatever the hot meal is and a plate of cheese. Finish up early because you won't want to miss the opening of this year's hottest stage show, MARY POPPINS. Already a sensation on Broadway and in the West End, this production combines songs, like 'A Spoonful of Sugar', from the hit 1964 movie with elements of the original books by Australian PL Travers. After the show, get close on a banquette in the lounge or on the rooftop at The Emerald Peacock. The signature, eponymous cocktail – a combination of Pisco, Liqueur 43, watermelon, pomegranate molasses, apple and lime juice – is heaven in a tall glass.

Sunday morning

Take to the skies and see the city from the best vantage point with Balloon Sunrise. As the name suggests, this magical, silent journey at dawn takes you over the Yarra, magnificent parks and gardens, Federation Square and the rest of the city's highlights. When it's all over, champagne breakfast at The Langham Hotel awaits. Continue the indulgence of the morning back at Crown Metropol. On the 27th floor is the city's newest luxury retreat, Isika Day Spa. Float in the pool while enjoying city views and relax in the steam room before indulging in a holistic Isika Intuitive massage for both of you, in one of the treatment rooms for two.

Sunday afternoon

Share some glorious Italian fare – olives, salumi, frutti di mare and pasta – at the sleek, chic Giuseppe, Arnaldo & Sons, before stepping back in time. Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition, at Melbourne Museum, showcases almost 300 treasures – china from the doomed luxury liner, bottles of perfume, a piece of the hull – retrieved from the ocean floor.

Sunday night

Greg Malouf is one of the city's best-loved chefs so gourmands breathed a sigh of relief when his MoMo Restaurant reopened. In the elegant, souk-style surroundings, diners enjoy banquets of Malouf's signature Middle Eastern flavours. It's completely understandable that you won't want your romantic weekend to end, so curl up on a sofa at the Melbourne Supper Club and enjoy a martini or glass of red.