Inspired by the city’s street art, W Melbourne at Flinders Lane sits in a laneway between two streets bursting with creativity. With a back-lane entrance, the 294-room hotel is perfect for late-night revellers looking to discover the city’s playground. Between matches, relax in the WET pool or detox in the state-of-the-art gym. Less than a 20-minute tram ride to Melbourne Park, W is also close to The National Gallery of Victoria and Melbourne Arts Centre for guests to soak in the city’s arty side.

Located in the heart of Melbourne, The Westin oozes sophistication and charm with modern amenities and Juliet balconies opening onto sweeping views of the city. With a heated indoor pool, fitness studio and a brisk 20-minute walk from Melbourne Park, it’s an idyllic location for an Australian Open stay.

Nestled in Melbourne’s picturesque Parisian end of Collins Street, Sheraton Melbourne Hotel is a great downtown location to attend the Open, just a 13-minute walk away. It’s a good spot to get your fix of charming restaurants and cafes, all while being a short walk or tram ride to Rod Laver arena. What’s more, the hotel’s al fresco Terrace Bar has expansive views over Melbourne’s iconic laneways where you can enjoy a post-match Aperol Spritz or elegant high tea.

Flinders’ Lane is a popular choice for dining when at the Open. Always buzzing with popular eateries, Nomad is one of the newest kids on the block (or lane). Originally from Sydney, its Melbourne establishment has a slight twist featuring a menu filled with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern vibes to highlight Victorian producers. From the wagyu brisket pastrami, kingfish ceviche topped with popping finger lime to flame-grilled meats and vegetables, it’s impossible to fault. It’s also just a 6-minute tram ride or 12-minute walk from Melbourne Park.

Glamourous, art-deco and serving a mean Martini, Gimlet at Cavendish is a polished establishment in a Chicago-style 1920s building. Focusing on European flavours using Australian produce, the menu is packed with showstoppers. For a quick bite, you can sit at the bar and enjoy smaller snacks, like freshly shucked oysters and even a caviar service. But for a long, intimate dinner, ask for a booth and indulge in steak grilled to perfection, warm duck salad and zucchini flowers. Thankfully, Gimlet is a quick 5-minute tram ride or 10-minute walk from Melbourne Park.

This Melbourne institution is always a hit with its classic French menu of escargot, steak tartare, muscles in white wine and confit duck and it’s only a 7-minute taxi ride from Melbourne Park. Between an extensive wine list, charming service, specials written in curly handwriting on the mirrored walls, the cosy space and bistro-feel of France-Soir will transport you to Paris.

Just in time for the AO, The Terrace at the Royal Botanic Gardens has reopened. If you want to do some sightseeing between matches, the stunning gardens are a short 8-minute walk from Melbourne Park. Having lunch at The Terrace overlooking the serene gardens is the cherry on top.