A specialist bookshop that stocks a vast range of books relating to graphic design, photography and architecture, to name a few. Many hours (and dollars) can easily be spent here.

Communal benches & an open kitchen create a buzzy setting for Asian-inspired cuisine.

Believe it or not, if you drive far enough from the city, the Yarra River is a beautiful place to spend a Summer's day swimming. Warrandyte is a haven of shady gumtrees, flowing rapids, and rocks to perch yourself on while the water rushes past. Bring beers, but esky optional - the water is cool enough to keep them chilled all day.

It’s only about ten meters above sea level, but for some reason it feels like you can see everything from the top of this hill. The 360 degree view spans from the city all the way across the bay and over the tree tops of the streets behind. I come up here to clear my mind and just to relax. Sunsets from here are amazing.

Mr Kitly is a shop and gallery specialising in ceramics, books, plants and textiles. Much of the stock is from Japan, and everything makes you want to weep because it's so charming and pretty. The hanging plants are amazingly affordable too.