Best Things To Do in Melbourne
Melbourne is probably the only place in Australia that can make you feel like you’ve been transported to a European city, but with better weather. With its trams, world renowned coffee culture (you won’t find a better flat white anywhere else), incredible festivals and culture at your fingertips, Melbourne will keep you coming back for more. Want to know what to do in Melbourne? Here are our top tips.
Cruise the city’s iconic laneways
Melbourne’s CBD is well known for its large number of hidden alleyways, known as laneways, which are home to hole in the wall restaurants, shops, street art and more. Some of the best known are AC/DC lane (near Swanston street), named after the famously successful Aussie rockers and adorned with images of the band and other musicians. Next up, and the most popular, is Hosier lane (just off Flinders street) which features an epic level of grungy street art. Centre Place is another gem and the laneway to visit for food, street art and shopping. There’s many more and you haven’t really been to Melbourne unless you’ve perched on a stool, coffee in hand and admired the latest piece of street art down a laneway.
Eat yourself silly at Queen Vic Markets
What to do in Melbourne on a Saturday morning? It’s not a hard question to answer. Get yourself down to Queen Vic Markets on the edge of the CBD and gorge on anything from bratwurst to locally produced cheese, wine and more. This huge expanse of stalls and shops is much loved by Melbournians and tourists alike and is the place to head for the freshest food and mix with the locals like a pro. The market runs every day except Monday and Wednesday, but the weekend is where the buzz is at.
Do a beach crawl from St Kilda to Elwood
What to do in Melbourne on a roasting hot day? Hop on the bus down to St Kilda and take a stroll along the bayside footpath that leads down to Elwood beach. St Kilda has had a much needed facelift and its boardwalk and beachside cafes and bars are the perfect spot to hang with a beer during one of Melbourne’s sweltering summer heatwaves. Follow the beach along to well-heeled Elwood with it’s quieter vibe and gorgeous beach with views across Port Philip Bay. Stop for lunch at Elwood Bathers, overlooking the waves, then make your way back to St Kilda for a perfect day by the beach.
Sample Melbourne’s many cultural delights
Whether you’re after a festival, world class art exhibition or live music Melbourne has something for everyone. The NGV is the place to head for all things art with regular special exhibitions and a beautiful location on the Yarra river. ACMI is for film buffs and photography nuts, and the Royal Botanic Gardens is the place for festivals of all kinds which are held throughout the year. One thing’s for sure, you’ll never have to wonder what to do in Melbourne when you visit; this vibrant, cosmopolitan city has it all.