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The 8 Best Restaurants in Melbourne

By Chris Boyle

Australia’s stylish southern city is a boon for culinary travelers. A multi-cultural Mecca, Melbournians hail from all over Down Under — not to mention Greece, Spain, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Sudan, India, Sri Lanka and beyond.

The result is a destination rich with homegrown and international chefs, who together form one of the most dynamic dining scenes on the planet.

For proof, try the incredible Spanish tapas made with lamb from Australia’s Flinders Island at Melbourne’s haute MoVinda restaurant. Or follow the paths of the Michelin-starred chefs from Europe and North America, who trek to the Melbourne suburbs to sample hot spot Attica’s inventive treatment of hyper-local ingredients like Illawarra plum pine and mussels plucked from Victoria Harbour.

One of the city’s original culinary trailblazers is Andrew McConnell. A Melbourne native, McConnell trained in kitchens in Hong Kong, Shanghai and London before bringing European and Asian techniques back to his hometown. He now runs four revered restaurants across the city, whose cuisines vary from gourmet pub fare to modern Australian fine dining.

McConnell’s restaurants tend to elevate their neighborhoods as well. Individually designed by his architect wife, an Andrew McConnell vehicle has performed such feats as transforming an industrial district’s former metalworking plant into a see-and-be-seen dining destination.

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Thus far, McConnell and his contemporaries’ innovative output has seemed an exciting, inner-circle secret, but the good word is spreading. Fast.

Every March, top chefs from around the world come in droves to the Melbourne Food Festival, and leave raving about the city’s diverse culinary scene. No less discerning a diner than New York City’s Momofuku maestro David Chang recently tweeted that a potato dish at Attica was the best thing he ate in 2012. And Los Angeles’ digital nomad Roy Choi enjoyed his stint cooking at Melbourne’s Coda restaurant so much, he tattooed its street address on his arm.

Still not convinced? Rumor has it Michelin is eyeing Australia. Proud Melbournians are eager to give rival city Sydney a run for its dining dollars, and buzz about which Melbourne chefs will do best is spreading faster than popular restaurant reservationists can say, “I’m afraid we’re fully booked tonight.”

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While Oz awaits a “red bible” to call its own, we have compiled the elite traveler’s guide to Melbourne’s hottest tables. From Asian fusion in the city-center, to luxe locavore fare in suburban Ripponlea, consider this your ticket to ride – or, rather, fly – in Australia’s culinary capital.

Vue de Monde

Style / Ambiance : Featured among Elite Traveler ’s Top 100 Restaurants in the World, Vue de Monde is a fixture on Melbourne’s fine dining scene.

Chef Shannon Bennett serves four- and 10-course tasting menus in a recently renovated dining room situated 55 stories above the city. Those looking for an extra exclusive experience should book the Dom Perignon Room, a Joost Baker-designed private space that seats up to 14 guests.

+61 (3) 9691 3888

[email protected]

Level 55, Rialto Building, 525 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC

www.vuedemonde.com.au

Style / Ambiance: New Zealand-born chef Ben Shewry has won fans of such tastemakers as Rene Redzepi, David Chang and Magnus Nilsson with his innovative, fiercely local cooking.

His 55-seat Ripponlea hot spot is the only Melbourne-area restaurant on S.Pellegrino’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Attica’s signature dishes include a Virginia Rose potato peeled, dressed and steamed in the earth in which it was grown, a play on the traditional Maori cooking method hangi .

Restaurant Manager Banjo Harris Plane

+61 (3) 9530 0111

[email protected]

74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea VIC 3185

www.attica.com.au

Style / Ambiance: Born in Barcelona and raised in Córdoba, Chef Frank Camorra is credited with introducing Melbourne diners to Spanish cuisine at his perennially popular wine and tapas bar.

Advance reservations are essential at the original, fine dining outpost on Hosier Lane, which has since spawned two casual offshoots, MoVida Next Door and MoVida Terrazza.

Reception Manager Louisa Biviano

+61 (3) 9663 3038

[email protected]

1 Hosier Lane, Melbourne 3000

www.movida.com.au

Cutler & Co.

Style / Ambiance : Hometown hero Andrew McConnell has four influential Melbourne restaurants, but Cutler & Co. is his award-winning take on modern fine dining.

Proudly Australian ingredients like marron, a Western Australian freshwater crayfish, are served à la carte and in sophisticated, eight-course tasting menus. The industrial chic interiors are by McConnell’s wife, star architect Pascale Gomes-McNabb.

General Manager Pippa James

 +61 (3) 9419 4888

[email protected]

55–57 Gertrude St., Fitzroy 3065

www.cutlerandco.com.au

Style / Ambiance: Australian celebrity chef Mark Best, whose Sydney restaurant Marque was number 42 on Elite Traveler ’s Top 100 Restaurants in the World, helms this modern bistro named for architect IM Pei, who designed both the Pyramid at the Louvre and Melbourne complex Collins Place.

The seasonal menu changes daily, and is complimented by award-winning manager Ainslie Lubbock’s elegant service and expertly chosen wine list.

Reception Manager Emma Bottos

+61 (3) 9654 8545

[email protected]

Collins Place, 45 Collins St, Melbourne

peimodern.com.au

Rockpool Bar & Grill

Style / Ambiance: The Melbourne outpost of Sydney chef Neil Perry’s Rockpool brand brings top-quality meat and seafood to a luxe, 200-seat space in the stylish Southbank neighborhood.

From daily menus emblazoned with photographer Earl Carter’s elegant cattle images, to the artfully lit bovine display in the meat locker near the entrance, Rockpool presents a strong case for the carnivore. Less beefy menu items also impress, like sashimi-style swordfish belly and Tasmanian abalone with lemon, parsley and brown butter.

General Manager Vanessa Crichton

+61 (3) 8648 1900

[email protected]

8 Whiteman Street, Crown Complex, Southbank

www.rockpoolmelbourne.com

Supernormal Cantine

CUISINE: ASIAN FUSION

Style / Ambiance: Located in St Kilda, Supernormal Canteen is the latest concept from serial restauranteur Andrew McConnell. Taking inspiration from the most popular food in Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong and Shanghai, Canteen delivers the best of Asian fusion cuisine in an intimate dining experience.

Inspired by his five years working in Hong Kong and Shanghai, McConnell blends Asian flavors and techniques with an international palate, resulting in untraditional dishes like his interpretation of a lobster roll, made with poached local crayfish and Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise.

Office Manager Sarah Pongratz

+61 (3) 9525 4488

[email protected]

157 Fitzroy St., St Kilda 3182

www.supernormalcanteen.com

Style / Ambiance: As international as Melbourne itself, Adam d’Sylva’s smart bistro has an eclectic menu that ranges from rabbit rillettes with sourdough, to tender roast duck in tamarind-scented yellow curry.

The bustling bar area serves wines by the glass and shareable small plates. The minimalistic dining room has artfully distressed walls, wire and mesh light fixtures and chic aluminum window treatments designed by Melbourne studio Projects of Imagination.

Manager Tom Hunter

+61 (3) 9650 3155

[email protected]

141 Flinders Lane, Melbourne 3000

www.codarestaurant.com.au

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Melbourne Travel Guide

While Australia's southernmost mainland city seems understated on its surface, visitors quickly learn there are layers of passion, hard work, and history behind every aspect of Melbourne—Australia's cultural capital.

Situated on the Yarra River as it flows into Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne and its population of 5 million inhabits a land that has been lived on by Aboriginal Australians for more than 40,000 years.

After British settlement in the early 1800s, the wealth produced from the nearby gold rush of the mid-19th century funded the development of much of the city you see today. Magnificent Victorian-era buildings such as Parliament House, The Princess Theatre, and The Block Arcade remain as vibrant today as when they first opened, and compete for attention with the striking geometric newcomers that dot the cityscape.

From the Victorian era emerged the city's Hoddle Grid, a layout which created the many laneways now famous for their street art, and alleys that hide world-class restaurants, bars, and boutiques.

You'll notice that Melburnians have a lot of obsessions, most notably coffee, sport, and food. This is great for visitors, as it results in a city that constantly strives for the best. It's evident in the espresso-scented laneways, as baristas grind for that perfect espresso; or in the thousands of flavor combinations that come out of kitchens that encompass cuisines from around the globe, thanks to the city's proud multicultural heritage. And it can be heard coming from the hallowed Melbourne Cricket Ground when a 100,000-strong crowd packs "The G" for a game of Aussie Rules.

Beyond the arts and all these interests that could keep one endlessly entertained, there is the landscape itself—a mixture of grand parks, impressive gardens and beautiful seasides, all which make Melbourne a must on any Australian itinerary.

Australian Eastern Standard Time (UTC+10 hours)

Best Time to Go

Melbourne's temperate climate means visitors can comfortably sightsee year-round. Major sporting events (Australian Open, F1 Grand Prix) and festivals take place mainly in the warmer months, between November and March. Much of the city's action moves indoors as days become cooler, but Melburnians adapt to their winter well, switching out sun umbrellas for patio heaters at outdoor cafes and rooftop bars. Melbourne weather has a reputation for occasionally having "four seasons in one day," which should be kept in mind when packing for your trip here.

Things to Know

Currency: Australian Dollar (Check the current exchange rate )

Language: English* *Visitors will quickly learn that Australians use a lot of slang in their everyday language, often shortening frequently-used words (i.e. "arvo" for afternoon, "avo" for avocado).

Many common words are also different to their US equivalent. Some handy examples: Elevator = lift Sidewalk = footpath Trash can = bin Cell phone = mobile Cookie = biscuit Chicken = chook Liquor store = bottle shop Flip-flops = thongs Swimsuit = bathers Sweater = jumper

Calling Code: +61

Capital City: Canberra

Tipping is uncommon in Australia. While never expected, it's also seen as inoffensive, should you wish to offer a tip. Exceptional service at a restaurant is an example of a situation in which a tip would happily be accepted.

Australians drive on the left side of the road. People here also keep to the left when walking on the sidewalk or standing on an escalator.

How to Get Around

A relatively flat city, much of Melbourne's sites and attractions can be reached easily on foot—many within walking distance of one another. Public transit is ample within inner Melbourne, and the city's iconic trams are easy to find. Taxis and rideshare options are also readily available.

Tram: The City Circle line is free and a great way to move around the Central Business District (CBD). Twenty-four routes cover more than 160 miles of track. With the exception of the City Circle, you'll need a myki card to ride a tram, and across all other public transit services.

Train: Melbourne's Metro train system includes an underground City Loop, which encompasses the CBD. There are 17 train lines that branch out from the City Loop, which reach further than the tram network, and can often be faster than a tram if journeying more than a couple of miles.

Bus: Your myki will come in handy if you find yourself in need of a bus. While trains and trams access most attractions, buses will come in handy for less accessible parts of town.

Taxi: 13cabs and Silver Top are the two main accredited taxi operators in Melbourne. You can hail them, phone or book using their respective apps. Ride-share: Uber and Ola are popular ride-share options in Melbourne. Another is Shebah, an all-women service.

Best Hotels

The langham.

Address: 1 Southgate Ave, Southbank, VIC 3006 Phone: (03) 8696 8888 Website

Overlooking the Yarra River, The Langham offers a luxury stay in an iconic location, with many of the 388 rooms offering views that encompass the city skyline, Flinders Street Station, St Paul's Cathedral and the MCG. Its restaurant, Melba, is renowned for its decadent afternoon teas, and its menu showcases local produce. Wellness facilities include a fitness center, 16.4-yard pool, and award-winning Chuan Spa.

Park Hyatt Melbourne

Address: 1 Parliament Square, off Parliament Place, Melbourne, VIC 3002 Phone: (03) 9224 1234 Website Book with Travel + Leisure

Ever so slightly set back from the bustle of the CDB grid and surrounded by manicured parks and the Fitzroy Gardens, Park Hyatt Melbourne feels like a luxurious oasis while remaining a stone's throw from the action. With 245 rooms and suites, the hotel also offers outdoor dining at its Trilogy Gardens, a stunning mosaic-decorated 27.3-yard swimming pool, day spa, gym and tennis court.

Hotel Windsor

Address: 111 Spring St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9633 6000 Website

Established in 1883, this grand hotel has been dazzling guests since before The Ritz in Paris or New York's Plaza Hotel were even established. Over the years it has hosted royalty, movie stars ranging from Gregory Peck to Meryl Streep, and sporting legends like Muhummad Ali. Situated on Spring Street across from Parliament House and next door to the Princess Theatre, each of the hotel's 180 rooms boast timeless elegance and comfort. Dine at restaurant One Eleven, or enjoy a beer and a pub meal at the historic Cricketers Bar.

Ink Hotel Melbourne

Address: 167 City Rd, Southbank, VIC 3006 Phone: (03) 9115 7000 Website

Vibrant artwork decorates all interiors at this 162-room hotel in Southbank, inspired by Melbourne's graffiti and street art. The complimentary barista-made coffee during your stay seals the deal on a trendy scene, which also offers a bar and cafe. Attractions such as the Arts Centre, NGV, and the Royal Botanic Gardens are all within walking distance.

The Westin Melbourne

Address: 205 Collins St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9635 2222 Website

For those who like to be in the middle of the action, The Westin Melbourne sits in the heart of the CBD. The city's laneways wait right on the doorstep of this longtime favorite, which features 262 cosmopolitan rooms, many with balconies. A well-equipped gym and indoor pool are among The Westin's fitness facilities.

Coppersmith Hotel

Address: 435 Clarendon St, South Melbourne, VIC 3205 Phone: (03) 8696 7777 Website

With just 15 rooms, this understated, modern boutique hotel is removed from the hubbub of the city's CBD, while remaining close to attractions and transport. Albert Park Lake is nearby, along with the South Melbourne Market—perfect for a morning coffee and pastry pit-stop. Happy hour couldn't be easier to find, with a pub of the same name downstairs.

Best Restaurants

Flower drum.

Address: 17 Market Lane, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9662 3655 Website

A crown jewel in Melbourne's dining scene for over 45 years, the Flower Drum offers Cantonese cuisine at its finest, with first-class service to match. Pearl meat and wild barramundi are among super-fresh seafood on offer; and the restaurant's iconic Peking Duck highlights on a menu that is both traditional and inventive. Reservations essential. Indoor dining only.

Charcoal Lane

Address: 136 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065 Phone: (03) 9418 3400 Website

From crocodile ceviche to braised wallaby and mushroom wontons, this modern Australian restaurant showcases native game that delights and often surprises. Indigenous ingredients, such as lemon myrtle and davidson plum are utilized across the menu, infusing cocktails and desserts with a distinctive Australian flavor. Reservations recommended. Indoor dining.

Address: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea, VIC 3185 Phone: (03) 9530 0111 Website

This fine dining restaurant, frequently found on 'Best Restaurants of the World' lists. Here, the focus is on experimental cuisine featuring native Australian ingredients. Plan ahead for this restaurant: bookings become available three months in advance and are snapped up quickly. Indoor dining only.

Address: 125 Flinders Ln, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 8663 2000 Website

This lively laneway restaurant specializes in fresh, South East Asian fare. Kingfish sashimi, pulled pork roll-ups and corn fritters are reliable highlights on the a la carte menu. There's often a wait here, but the restaurant's moody basement bar, GoGo, will keep you happy with its selection of innovative cocktails.

Jim's Greek Tavern

Address: 32 Johnston St, Collingwood, VIC 3066 Phone: (03) 9419 3827 With one of the largest Greek populations in the world outside of Greece, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to top-notch Greek cuisine in Melbourne, but you're guaranteed a one-of-a-kind experience at Jim's Greek Tavern. Buckle-up for a ride with no menu, as restaurant staff guide you through a mouth-watering variety of classic Greek fare, including lamb, seafood, dips and saganaki. Jim's is BYOB, so be sure to stop by the bottle shop on your way. Reservations recommended.

The Esplanade Hotel

Address: 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Phone: (03) 9534 0211 Website

A beloved St Kilda mainstay dating back to 1878, "The Espy" has been through a number of reinventions over the years: most recently transforming from a dive bar into a slick, multi-floor venue offering a variety of vibes and dining options, with a focus on seasonal produce and shared plates. One thing that always remains the same: That gorgeous St Kilda Beach view. Indoor and outdoor dining options.

The Lui Bar

Address: 525 Collins St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9691 3888 Website

Perched on the 55th floor of the Rialto tower and adjacent to fine dining restaurant Vue de Monde, consider the Lui Bar your go-to for views over Albert Park Lake and the bay, with one or two exquisite cocktails on the side. Reservations only required for groups of 6+.

The Brandon Hotel

Address: 237 Station St, Carlton North, VIC 3054 Phone: (03) 9347 2382 Website

Tucked away in the backstreets of the inner-northern suburbs, The Brandon Hotel knows its pub grub. Offering a mix of Aussie classics—including a really good Chicken Parma—you'll also find less-typical menu items, such as ham-hock, leek and potato croquettes. Venom Golden Ale is among local beers on tap.

Young & Jackson's

Address: 1 Swanston St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9650 3884 Website

A landmark pub across from Flinders Street Station offering local and international beer along with classic pub fare. Dine upstairs in Chloe's Brasserie, where French painter Jules Joseph Lefebvre's famous "Chloe" portrait has gazed over patrons since 1909.

Things to Do

Federation square.

Address: Corner Swanston & Flinders Streets, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9655 1900 Website

A great starting point for first-time visitors, this striking public square sits between the Yarra River and the southern edge of the CBD, and directly across from Flinders Street Station. A popular meeting place and public event venue, it's where you'll find Melbourne's main Visitor Information Centre and the Koorie Heritage Trust, which offers information on Aboriginal history, walking tours and more. Two free museums are also located here: The Ian Potter Centre, which is the National Gallery of Victoria's home to Australian art; and the Australian Centre of the Moving Image (ACMI). A number of restaurants and bars operate within the square on a permanent and pop-up basis.

Popular laneways are dotted throughout the CBD grid, notably in the area between Flinders & Collins Streets / Elizabeth & Exhibition Streets Phone: (03) 9658 9658 Website

Melbourne's iconic laneways are home to numerous cafes, hidden bars, restaurants and boutiques. Famous for their striking graffiti and street art, these spaces effectively operate as free outdoor art galleries. Explore independently, or sign up to one of the many tours available. Tattersalls Lane, Duckboard Place, ACDC Lane, Croft Alley, and Hosier Lane are a handful of musts when it comes to viewing street art. If you're looking for quality cafes and hole-in-the-wall espresso bars, be sure not to miss Centre Place and Degraves Street.

Little Penguins at St Kilda Breakwater

Address: Pier Road, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Phone: Call Parks Victoria 131 963 Website

Enjoy a sunset stroll along St Kilda Pier before Little Penguins come home to roost at twilight. Around 1,400 Little Penguins call St Kilda home, returning to the breakwater every night after a hard day's fishing out at sea.

National Gallery of Victoria

Address: 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3006 Phone: (03) 8620 2222 Website

Australia's oldest museum, the NGV: International houses an impressive collection of artworks from around the world, and hosts major international traveling exhibitions. The Roy Grounds-designed building is worthy of a visit by itself: The ceiling of the Great Hall, designed by Leonard French, features 224 stained-glass triangles, and is the largest cut-glass ceiling in the world. The iconic Waterwall at the museum's entrance is a fun posing location for all visitors, whether you're six, 26, or 60 years old.

Melbourne Museum

Address: 11 Nicholson St, Carlton, VIC 3053 Phone: (03) 8341 7777 Website

Situated in the beautiful Carlton Gardens, Melbourne Museum is a natural history museum, and so much more. Prehistoric wonders unique to the Australian continent can be found in the Science and Life Gallery, while the Melbourne Gallery details the history of the gold rush and the city's development. The museum is also home to Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, which explores Aboriginal culture and history; and the living Forest Gallery replicates the rainforests environment found just outside of the city. Keep an eye out for the critters that call this space home, including frogs and stunning Satin Bower Birds.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Address: Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne, VIC 3004 Phone: (03) 9252 2300 Website

Find a moment of zen within nearly 94 acres of stunningly-landscaped gardens, which offer vistas of the city skyline as it peeks through unique scenes, like the Arid Garden and Australian Forest Walk. Fern Gully will transport you seemingly in space and time, while the Aboriginal Heritage Walk is a valuable experience, where you can learn about Aboriginal history, traditional uses of native plants, and the spiritual meaning of Country. With more than 8,500 species of plants, the gardens are also home to two cafes: The Terrace and Jardin Tan.

Eureka skydeck

Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank, VIC 3006 Phone: (03) 9693 8888 Website

With floor-to-ceiling windows and 360-degree views, the skydeck on the 88th floor of the Eureka building showcases the stunning geography in which the city is set. Views encompass Port Phillip Bay, Albert Park Lake, and the Dandenong Ranges, in addition to miniature versions of all those landmarks you've come to love. Suspended almost 980 feet above the ground is The Edge, a glass cube experience for those seeking thrills.

Best Shopping

Bourke street mall.

Address: Bourke Street, between Elizabeth and Swanston Streets, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Website

Running perpendicular between Swanston and Elizabeth Streets, Bourke Street Mall is a hub of activity, where tram riders, buskers, and shoppers intersect. Find department stores David Jones and Myer here, as well as popular chain stores and the entrances to several shopping arcades. On the corner of Elizabeth Street sits the GPO, a grand, Victorian-era building that once housed the general post office, and now operates as a luxe shopping mall.

Address: Within the CBD Website: royalarcade.com.au ; theblock.com.au

There are a number of historic arcades within the CBD, many of them heritage-listed and worth a visit for their architecture alone, particularly The Royal Arcade and The Block Arcade. The Royal Arcade offers a mix of curiosities: It's where local chocolate company Koko Black has its flagship cafe; while neighboring stores include Babushka, a shop dedicated to nesting dolls and Spellbox, for all your crystal and witchcraft needs. Celebrated local fine jeweler Canturi also finds a home here. The Block Arcade features a mix of design, fashion, and confectionary stores, including Haigh's, Australia's oldest family-run chocolate company.

Emporium Melbourne

Address: 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 8609 8221 Website

This multi-level complex in the heart of Melbourne's CBD houses over two dozen Australian fashion labels, including Dion Lee, Scanlan Theodore, Alice McCall, and Viktoria & Woods. Here you'll also find everyday favorites such as Uniqlo, T2, Muji, and Aesop.

Brunswick Street

Address: Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, is situated between Victoria Parade to the south and Alexandra Parade to the north.

Head here for local-fashion finds, such as the ethically-minded Arnsdorf and Kloke. Browse curated vintage at Hunter Gather and be sure to make a pit-stop at one of the street's many cafes or bars. Handcrafted jewelry and artistic decor stores embrace this district's bohemian vibe.

Queen Victoria Market

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

Address: Corner of Elizabeth and Victoria Streets, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: 03 9320 5822 Website

Dating back to 1878, this landmark market covers over 17 acres, making it the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Be sure to bring your appetite: this place is a food lover's heaven. Explore the artisanal purveyors, and be sure to get your hands on a hot-jam donut while you're here. Tea lovers must stop by McIver's for some of the best tea and coffee they can possibly find.

The Rose Street Artists' Market

Address: 60 Rose Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065 Phone: (03) 9419 5529 Website

Discover great local art and design at this weekend market located off the northern end of Brunswick Street. Homewares, jewelry, and paintings are just a few of the unique handmade offerings.

Dejour Jeans

Address: 542 Sydney Rd, Brunswick, VIC 3056 Phone: (03) 9939 0667 Website

Made in Melbourne since 1989, Dejour is all about quality denim at a great price. With free on-the-spot tailoring, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better denim deal.

Neighborhoods to Know

CBD : The CBD (Central Business District) is Melbourne's easy-to-navigate center, with its grid layout encompassed by the free City Circle tram. You'll find many of the city's iconic landmarks here: The State Library of Victoria, Flinders Street Station, Parliament House, and St Paul's Cathedral are standouts; along with historic and lovingly-maintained historic arcades. This is where the city's famous laneways reside, home to scores of tucked-away restaurants, bars, and boutiques. The Bourke Street Mall and Swanston Street are both closed to local traffic—but watch out for trams! Plenty of shopping is to be found around here. Chinatown, on Little Bourke Street, is steeped in history and delicious cuisine, and has formed an intrinsic part of Melbourne since the mid-1800s. Lined with stately London Plane trees, Collins Street has a distinct European vibe. Its east end is where you'll find designer boutiques such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Versace, along with Her Majesty's Theatre.

Southbank : The spire of Melbourne's Arts Centre acts as a beacon for the city's arts precinct on the south side of the Yarra River: The Australian Ballet, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Melbourne Theatre Company, and Opera Australia all call this institution home. The Malthouse Theatre, Melbourne Recital Centre, and Southbank Theatre are also nearby, all notable for their striking architecture as much as the creativity produced inside. The NGV International can also be found in this area, while along the riverbank itself you'll find restaurants, bars, and Crown casino.

St Kilda : Famous for its pier, palm trees, and penguins, this beachside suburb is abuzz on the water and off. Kite-surfing, jet-skiing, and fishing are all popular activities here, but nothing beats the relaxing simplicity in a walk along St Kilda Beach's tree-lined promenade, where nearby attractions include St Kilda Sea Baths, the historic St Kilda Pier, Luna Park amusement park, or one of the many seaside cafes, restaurants, and bars. Acland, Carlyle, and Fitzroy Streets are popular spots for food and shopping; after the sun sets, they are great places for live music, dancing, and nightlife.

Carlton : Head to Lygon Street in this inner-north neighborhood and you'll find Melbourne's Little Italy. Enjoy one of the many Italian restaurants here, or grab a sweet treat from famed pasticceria Brunetti. There are also more than a few gelateria to take your pick from here, too. The nearby Carlton Gardens are beautiful at any time of year, and is where you will find Melbourne Museum and the World Heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building.

Summer: December-February Melbourne's summers are typically hot and dry, but keep in mind the city's reputation for occasionally having "four seasons in one day." Averages can be deceptive because of this, with highs capable of reaching over 100, only to be erased by a cool change that causes temperatures to drop to the 60s. It happens infrequently enough not to affect summer vacation planning, but with that unpredictability in mind, be sure to pack a light jacket or cardigan, just in case.

Autumn: March-May This time of year can feel like an extension to summer, with plenty of warm, sunny days. Mornings become increasingly crisp as the season draws to a close. Evenings out on the town may require a coat.

Winter: June-August Melbourne's winters are mild enough to comfortably spend a day outdoors, with the right amount of layers. While Melbourne never sees a snowfall, winter mornings can be cold enough for frost in some areas, with overnight temperatures nearing freezing on occasion.

Spring: September-November Melbourne can sometimes be a little slow to come out of its winter, but spring here is typically sunny and comfortable, steadily warming up while remaining cool in the evenings.

Below are average temperatures in Fahrenheit. January: 61°F to 81°F February: 61°F to 80°F March: 58°F to 76°F April: 53°F to 70°F May: 49°F to 64°F June: 48°F to 59°F July: 45°F to 58°F August: 46°F to 61°F September: 49°F to 65°F October: 52°F to 69°F November: 55°F to 73°F December: 58°F to 77°F

Apps to Download

PTV : Melbourne public transport planner, routes, timetables, live updates. iOs | Android

National Gallery of Victoria : Navigation aid to the NGV's collections, events, and exhibitions. iOs | Android

The Fork : Restaurant, cafe, and bar reservations; reviews. iOs | Android

Yalinguth : An augmented-reality experience guided by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and storytellers that connects visitors to place and history. iOs | Android

The Happiest Hour : Guide to happy hours and other deals at local pubs and bars. iOs | Android

The Best Restaurants In Melbourne

photo credit: Steve Woodburn

Ellen Fraser

September 26, 2022

As a food city, Melbourne is up there with New York , Tokyo, and London . The dining scene is varied and innovative, bringing together different cultural influences from here and around the world.

Our wine bars take inspiration from those in  France  and Spain, our coffee culture kicked off thanks to Greek and Italian immigration, and the sheer number of excellent ramen, bánh mì, and noodle joints hint at our close proximity to Asia. And while native ingredients were once a hard-to-find novelty, you’ll now find them celebrated not just at adventurous fine-dining spots but at cafes and cocktail bars, too. You might also hear Melbourne referred to by its traditional name, Naarm, a gesture of recognition that reflects a growing desire by non-Indigenous Australians to better respect and understand First Nations and Torres Strait Islander culture.

There are a few other things you should know about eating here. Melburnians take brunch as seriously as dinner (many cafes are full table-service affairs), and we have a penchant for rooftop bars, late-night dining, and signature dishes (look out for The Anchovy Toast, The Lobster Roll, and The Vegemite Curry). You’ll hear locals refer to “the city” or “the CBD,” by which they mean the Central Business District and City of Melbourne, and while this guide focuses on the city and surrounding neighborhoods like Brunswick, Fitzroy, Carlton, and Richmond, you could also spend days further afield exploring Vietnamese and Ethiopian food in Footscray, or Cantonese and Korean in Box Hill.

Wherever you end up, Melbourne is a great place to be hungry right now.

HOTSPOTS WORTH THE HYPE

photo credit: Ari Hatzis

If you haven’t been brought up on the stuff, you’ve probably been scared off Vegemite. But for an excellent entry point try the Vegemite curry at Sunda, a Southeast Asian spot that kind of looks like a construction site, all exposed brick and steel beams. That Vegemite curry started out as a special, but now you can add it to the $130 four-course prix-fixe menu any night. And you absolutely should (technically, you can’t really say you’ve been to Melbourne if you haven't eaten this dish). See also: Aru , a similar concept but more fire-fuelled, by the same chef.

photo credit: Miranda Stokkel

1800 Lasagne

A night out at 1800 Lasagne is a guaranteed good time. The joyful Italian restaurant started out as a delivery service only for those in the know, run out of an old Holden hatchback. The candle-lit, brick-and-mortar version adds romance and nostalgia to the mix with brick archways, checkered tablecloths, and some of Melbourne’s best DJs on record duty. The pork-and-beef lasagne is big on silky bechamel, and there’s an eggplant option for vegetarians. There’s no shortage of amaro, chianti, or prosecco either. If it’s drinkable, delicious, and Italian, you’ll likely find it here.

Lagoon Dining

It’s hard to go past the togarashi fried chicken at Lagoon Dining, a modern Asian island in the sea of Italian restaurants that is Lygon Street, Carlton. But everything else on the menu (which reflects the Chinese, Thai, and Malaysian heritage of the owners) is just as loaded with umami and spice. Think kang kong (water spinach) stir-fried in chicken fat, or egg custard with mushroom mapo and pork floss. Cinema Nova is right across the street, so it’s a great spot for a dinner-and-a-movie date night.

photo credit: Gareth Sobey

Bar Margaux

If you find yourself wandering around the city late at night with a hankering for indulgent French food, get to Lonsdale Street and look for the door marked “MGX.” Beyond it, you’ll find a raucous, dimly-lit basement bar where you can easily lose the rest of your night. The same crew is behind dive bar Heartbreaker and speakeasy The Everleigh , and are known for their top-notch cocktails. Order the Manhattan and the cheeseburger with bordelaise and pomme frites, all served until 2:30am on Friday and Saturday nights.

Napier Quarter

For an introduction to what eating in this city is all about, head to Napier Quarter, a cafe-slash-wine-bar in a Fitzroy backstreet. Produce is prepared with a light but thoughtful touch, which by day might mean a plate of yellow peaches dressed with honey, or heirloom tomatoes with wild sorrel (by night there are natural wines and more substantial dishes). The Anchovy Toast is a cult favorite: Olasagasti anchovies, thick house mayo, salsa verde, and a sliced boiled egg served on rye. Lingering is encouraged—there’s no coffee to go, and there’s even an on-site guesthouse.

photo credit: Annika Kafcaloudis

Don’t let the polished concrete and bentwood chairs fool you into thinking this is just another neighborhood wine bar. Etta is one of the most exciting places to eat in Melbourne right now, largely thanks to a bold, punchy menu that draws on the chef’s Kashmiri, Chinese, Singaporean, and Filipino heritage. Read: scallops cooked in sambal-spiked butter, abalone-lardo skewers swept with soy and kampot pepper, and crayfish with curry-leaf butter. All primed for pairing with interesting wines from small-batch producers.

photo credit: Sarah Anderson

There’ll always be a place in this world for quiet bars, but if drinking in a library isn’t your bag, get yourself to Embla, where the music is loud and the room is almost always ​​chockablock. The crew here want you to have a good time—they certainly are—and make traversing the broad-ranging wine list effortless and fun. Within it you’ll find a mix of progressive and old-school producers from Australia and around the world, as well as a few hard-to-find drops not normally available to the public. The food, most of which gets fire-adjacent at some point, is ridiculously good, too.

photo credit: Jana Lanhorst

Bar Liberty

In all honesty, we’re kind of underselling Bar Liberty by calling it a wine bar. Sure, there’s a list loaded with interesting and exciting natural wines, but there’s also sake, pastis, and vermouth. And lurid blue cocktails. And a delightfully rascally vibe in the dining room, where you’ll eat salty, snackable things like miso king prawns or grilled mortadella with pickles. This is a perfect date night spot, even more so in summer when the astroturfed courtyard opens up. Just look for the graffiti-covered sign out front.

Carlton Wine Room

Carlton Wine Room is, in fact, many rooms spread across five levels of a 19th-century terrace house. We reckon the place to be though is the marble bar on the ground floor. Staff act as masterful guides for a 100-strong wine list covering both classic and contemporary terrain, while the kitchen puts up pretty dishes that drive you to delve deeper into that drinks selection. The potato focaccia has a pleasing squish-to-crunch ratio, begging to be torn apart and dipped into an accompanying bowl of stracciatella in chive oil. Don’t miss the rum-soaked baba either, though if you’re a few wines in be warned: it’s big on booze.

BAKERIES, CAFES, & DELIS

If you think New Yorkers take brunch seriously, you should meet a Melburnian. The city’s devotion to brunch is all-consuming, and Florian is one of the best in the game. Sit at the breakfast bar or a sunny outdoor table and order the popular gravlax with tarragon and ricotta on rye, or steel-cut oats with ruby-red poached quince and brown-butter crumb. The coffee is excellent, too, but you’re in Melbourne so that goes without saying. Go on a weekday to avoid a long wait.

photo credit: Melanie Desa

Lune Croissanterie

Bakery/Cafe

According to The New York Times , the Lune croissant “may be the finest you will find anywhere in the world.” But Melburnians already knew that, which is why we’ve been lining up for the perennially popular pastry shop’s peanut-pretzel pain au chocolat, coconut pandan croissants, and creme brûlée cruffins for years. The flagship is a futuristic bunker-like space in Fitzroy, and there are outposts in the city and Armadale. Book ahead if you want a spot at Lune Lab , an eight-stool bar at the Fitzroy location doing experimental three-course pastry meals and bottomless coffee.

Melbourne’s long lockdowns in 2020 and 2021 led to the opening of this sandwich shop from the team behind Anchovy (a Vietnamese fine diner that’s since closed). Billed as a “bánh mì bar,” Cà Com’s specialty is actually khao jee pate, a Lao breakfast sandwich that isn’t technically a bánh mì but gets pretty damn close. The OG is jungle-spiced pork sausage big on lemongrass, galangal, and garlic, served on a crunchy long roll with mayo, jeow bong, pickles, and herbs. Five-spice pork belly and turmeric-coconut chicken also make regular appearances. The venue only seats six, so we like to grab a sandwich and Vietnamese iced coffee and head to Citizen’s Park nearby.

The signature breakfast at Cibi is as understated and wholesome as the rest of this Japanese cafe and concept store: a piece of grilled fish, tamagoyaki, potato salad, greens, veggies, rice and a bowl of miso. It’ll give you the energy you need to shop the rest of the warehouse space, full of Japanese ceramics, kitchen tools, coffee accessories, plants, hand-dyed fabrics, and more.

All Are Welcome

Australians aren’t exactly known for being subtle, so when Northcote’s All Are Welcome was tagged with the line “Posh c*nts, good bread,” they spun it to their advantage and turned it into merch. And that anonymous artist was kinda right: you’ll pay more than average for the bread and pastries here, but they’re all well worth the price. There are just a handful of seats (same goes for the second location in Thornbury up the road), and while it’s open till 2pm, the excellent fennel-spiced pork sausage rolls and inventive fruit danishes can be sold out well before then, so you’ll want to arrive early.

photo credit: Kristoffer Paulsen

Smith & Deli

There’s so much variety at this vegan dining hall that the staff regularly has to assure customers that yes, it’s all plant-based. That includes the meatball sub, the black forest cannoli, the full English breakfast, and the seafood laksa. The setup is cafeteria-style, so you can load up your own tray and get the necessary fuel you’ll need to go vintage shopping on nearby Smith and Brunswick streets. Or get your vegan cold-cuts, cheeses, and almond croissants to go, and snack along the way.

Terror Twilight

Terror Twilight is an all-day cafe that’s wholesome in more ways in one. Light streams in through huge Venetian-clad windows, and there’s cozy booth seating and plenty of greenery, both hanging from the ceiling and on the menu. Build-your-own bowls include options like brussels sprouts with honey mustard, edamame with chili oil, and sumac-spiced smashed avo. Yes, there are kale smoothies, but there’s also coconut cold-brew coffee—splash of rum optional.

Hector's Deli

There’s no skimping at Hector’s. Not on sandwich size. Not on butter. Not on cheese or any really any other filling, whether you’ve ordered the tuna melt on rye or the fried-eggplant-and-stracciatella number. The corner shop is located in a residential street in Richmond and there’s a South Melbourne offshoot, too, and while Hector’s isn’t technically a deli, the “sangas” are always made fresh. Doughnuts are a new addition and come filled with interesting combos like whipped chèvre and hot honey, or sweet-sour plum jam.

CLASSIC ESTABLISHMENTS

You won’t find chicken chow mein or General Tso’s anything at most Chinese restaurants in Australia. Instead you get regional offerings like Sichuan-style hotpot, Yunnan noodle soups, and ShanDong-style dumplings. Always-buzzing Cantonese institution Ling Nan is a reliable go-to for its generous plates of pippies in XO and duck pancakes served until 2:30am. Service can be brusque (you definitely won’t be allowed to hang around after eating) but that’s balanced out by affordable prices and the ability to BYO.

France-Soir

The food at France-Soir is as classic French as the white-clothed tables and charming, suited-up waiters. You’ll eat escargot, cassoulet, steak frites, and crepes suzette while drinking champagne (or something else suitably French) from the 3000-strong wine list, one of the best and most reasonably priced in the country. The bistro is a Melbourne institution, open since 1986, and while you’ll still find business-types in the corner and staff who’ve worked here for more than 30 years, a younger generation has discovered the place and keeps things lively.

Middle Eastern

Maha is an institution—a well-oiled machine in a swish CBD space serving Middle Eastern dishes that recall the chef/owner’s childhood. You’ll find wines from as far afield as Morocco and Turkey to pair with spice-laden dishes like slow-roasted lamb shoulder with smoked eggplant, and miniature doughnuts stuffed with Turkish delight jelly. Offshoots Maha Bar in Collingwood and Maha East in Prahran are smaller, livelier, and often easier to get into.

Southeast Asian

There’s no avoiding it: if you plan on going to the “Double Chin,” plan on waiting. The no-reservations Southeast Asian spot has been pretty much slammed since opening in 2011. We recommend arriving before 7pm, putting your name down, then grabbing a drink at GoGo Bar downstairs. When you do get a table, crowd-pleasing dishes might include barramundi and caramelized pork salad, or diamond clams in jungle curry. For more by the same restaurant group, check out lively Japanese joint Yakimono , stylish Italian diner Grill Americano , glamorous fine diner Society , or sleek omakase restaurant Kisumé , all within walking distance.

photo credit: Tim Grey

If you’re not already familiar with Melbourne’s many laneways, the trip to Tonka will take you to one of the city’s most iconic: a u-shaped deviation from Flinders Lane that includes ACDC Lane and Duckboard Place. Arrive early to check out the street art, and to find the entrance to this modern Indian eatery drawing on the chef’s family recipes. Expect dishes like pani puri, tandoori ocean trout, and butter chicken, all with a contemporary twist.

CASUAL & LOWKEY

Melbourne’s fixation on hidden bars and restaurants has tapered off over recent years, but one mainstay is this colorful Thai spot concealed in a city car park. To order, check off items on a paper menu and hand it to staff as they dash about the tiny, rowdy space, which is decked out with blue and red tables and framed pictures of Thai royalty. Most dishes are $10, including the signature boat noodles, which come with braised beef or pork in an anise-rich pork broth. Don’t let the line put you off, it moves fast.

There are more first-rate ramen shops in Melbourne than you can chuck a wheat noodle at, but for something left-of-center look for the glowing neon-red sign promising “ramen, bun & pie” in Fitzroy. Once inside, dig into generous bowls of shoyu broth topped with pork belly and oyster mushrooms, or miso with barbecue chicken and sweet corn. The promised pies are frozen desserts in flavors like raspberry-yuzu, banana cream, or chocolate, marshmallow, and jam. Like most ramen joints, this is a goodie for solo diners.

Native Australian produce isn’t hard to find in this city if you know where to look. But Big Esso is one of the few places championing it that’s also Torres Strait Islander owned-and-run. Try the deep-fried crocodile dusted in saltbush and pepperberry, wild boar with native lemongrass, and the charred peach, rivermint, and candided quandong salad. Booze (like the Green Ant-Tini) is mostly Aussie, too.

Juanita Peaches

Fried Chicken

The typical Australian burger is not like its American counterpart. Order one with "the lot" at a fish-and-chip shop and you'll get less cheese, more bacon, a fried eff, and a slice of beetroot. But at this Brunswick diner the burger leans more In-N-Out or Shake Shack than beachside takeaway joint. Juanita’s is actually a fried chicken joint, so there’s just one burger on the menu: a brisket patty stacked with american cheese, dill pickles, and honey-mustard mayo on a house bun. Of course, the free-range fried chook (we’ll let you use context clues to figure that nickname out) is exceptional, as are the pink Simpsons-esque donuts. Stop here before catching a live music show or bar-hopping around Brunswick.

Pellegrini's

Open since the 1950s, Pellegrini’s is a Melbourne institution. The tiny time capsule serves espresso and classic Italian dishes all day long, with waiters in all-white plonking down bowls of spaghetti bolognese and glasses of watermelon granita like they’ve done a thousand times before. It sometimes feels like they’re doing you a favor just by serving you, and they kind of are: seating is limited, and you’re competing with some seriously dedicated regulars. Nabbing a seat though will set you up perfectly for a fuel-up between tourist sites in the city.

Hutong Dumpling Bar (胡同)

The Melbourne dumpling-scape is broad, with no shortage of options in Chinatown and beyond. But Hutong has been fueling our xiaolongbao obsession since 2008. Each little parcel of the housemade specialty comes filled with gingery minced pork and treacherously hot pork broth. Dip yours in black vinegar and wash it down with a local beer (it’s BYO). The original Hutong is in the city, and while the Prahran offshoot is slightly fancier, it’s best to book ahead at both. You might still have to wait at peak times, but these dumplings are worth it.

SPECIAL OCCASIONS & FINE DINING

Few places celebrate Australian ingredients like Attica. It’s one of the country’s best restaurants (you might remember it from season one of Chef’s Table ), so you’ll be booking and paying for the $360 degustation at least three months in advance. But that hefty price tag doesn't mean a typical fine dining experience—you won’t see any lobster or caviar on what can sometimes be a 20-course menu. More likely, you’ll find emu liver parfait, kelp-wrapped marron, or crocodile ribs on your plate (or the big flat rock or pile of grass that's subbing in as dishware).The vibe is more casual than you’d expect, with Patti Smith and The Brian Jonestown Massacre playing in the dining room, and street-art inspired works by local artists (including the chef) on the walls.

Vue De Monde

Of the handful of places to eat with a view in Melbourne, Vue de Monde is the most impressive. Take the elevator to the 55th floor of the Rialto building where the dark and dramatic dining room is offset by show-stopping city views. Next, pull up a kangaroo-skin chair for a theatrical degustation that might have you churning your own butter or cooking your own seafood snag (that’s Australian for sausage). Indigenous flavors abound, from marron in native curry, to kangaroo tenderloin, to an Iced Vovo—an old-school Aussie biscuit—made with Davidson plum for dessert.

photo credit: Sharyn Cairns

Gimlet at Cavendish House

Prolific chef-restaurateur Andrew McConnell’s latest show-stopper is Gimlet, a refined bar and eatery in a grand 1920s building with comfy burgundy-leather booths and a house martini that’s quite possibly the best in the city. Expect perfectly executed Euro-centric dishes like tartare served table-side, oysters with seaweed butter, and dry-aged t-bone steaks. Other McConnell spots include Supernormal , a neon-lit Asian diner known for its lobster roll; the more formal Cutler & Co ; wine bars Cumulus Inc. and Marion ; and The Builder’s Arms , a fancy pub. Don’t leave town without eating at one of these.

Lee Ho Fook

Lee Ho Fook is one of many Melbourne restaurants hidden in a graffiti-scrawled laneway. Inside though this swish Chinese eatery is all polish. The menu combines modern techniques with traditional recipes, and it’s big on seafood. Think faux shark fin soup (made with mud crab) and “sea treasure” spring rolls. Upstairs it’s a tasting-menu-only scenario with optional matched Aussie wines, but downstairs is more casual and a la carte (and no less tasty).

Di Stasio Citta

This brutalist restaurant feels a bit like an art gallery. Towering concrete interior walls host video installations by Aussie artists such as Reko Rennie, while waiters move gracefully between tables, topping up a Barolo here, delivering a Campari and soda there. Pretty plates of upscale Italian dishes will impress—maybe crab capellini, or the signature foil-wrapped veal schnitzel sandwich, crusts off—but just know that a meal here can get pricey, fast. If you’re looking for a celebration spot though, Di Stasio Citta always delivers.

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The Eater Guide to Melbourne

Every single brekkie, bickie, sanger, parma, and plate of pippies worth eating in Australia’s culinary capital

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Asking, “What is Australian food?” is sort of like asking, “What is American food?” There’s the tired answer — something about meat pies and Vegemite — and there’s the real answer: a complicated, heavenly mess of banh mi, souvlaki, pippies in XO sauce, steaming bowls of bun bo hue , crisp cannoli, and yes, okay, sure, meat pies. Cities like Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth have their own spins on this story, warmer ones with slightly better beaches, but nowhere does it all come together quite so deliciously as Melbourne.

On the southeastern edge of the continent, gracefully aging Victorian architecture mixes with street art in a sprawl of distinct neighborhoods that converge along the Yarra River, among the soaring towers and narrow alleyways of the Central Business District, or CBD. It’s often said that Melbourne is the San Francisco of Australia. We’d argue it’s actually more of the Chicago, with the brusque spirit of New York and the diverse food culture of LA, but that’s beside the point: Melbourne is Melbourne, and despite the parade of analogies Americans love to throw at Australia’s second-largest city, it is wholly unique. And it is here, amid the gum trees, corner pubs, and cricket fields, that you’ll find one of the world’s most exciting places to eat .

Melbourne might be known today for its all-day cafe culture — the easy pairing of great coffee with sophisticated brunch food that grew out of the city’s Italian espresso bars of the 1950s, which has since taken over the world. But beneath Melbourne’s neon-lit veil of avocado toast is a food scene that mirrors the undulating demographics of its population: Greek, Italian, African, Lebanese, Southeast Asian, and Chinese flavors collide and spark in fascinating ways, while thriving immigrant-run restaurants preserve the cooking of a thousand different homelands. Increasingly, those homelands are in Asia — walk around the CBD today and you’ll see that the majority of ground-floor storefronts are selling milky boba, hand-pulled noodles, and crackling hunks of Asian fried chicken.

Despite the street-level bounty, Melbourne is not a street-food town. It’s a restaurant town — a really, really good restaurant town. Inside cramped cafes, cozy trattorias, and elegant dining rooms that are repeatedly hailed as among the world’s best, chefs dial up the city’s melting pot motif, presenting everything from crispy Chinese eggplant to handmade pasta to still-squirming native wichetty grubs with a spirit of hospitality that transforms diners into mates.

The Eater Guide to Melbourne is a chance to revel in all of it: fluffy ricotta hotcakes, ochre bowls of laksa, profound tasting menus, stiff espresso martinis, and late-night souvlaki stuffed with fries (sorry, chips ). If the southern hemisphere can make Santa come in summer and toilets swirl clockwise, maybe — just maybe — it can help the food taste better, too. Bajillion-hour flight be damned. It’s high time you got here to find out.

Ready to go? You can actually book a trip with Eater right now , brought to you by travel experts Black Tomato . And download one of our mouthwatering Melbourne phone wallpapers and start getting inspired.

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Editorial lead: Lesley Suter Consulting Editor: Besha Rodell Creative director: Brittany Holloway-Brown Contributors: Adam Moussa, Audrey Bourget, Besha Rodell, Fred Siggins, Jess Ho, Meister, Milly McGuinness, Russell Jackson, Tristan Lutze Photographers: Jacinta Moore, Jez Hunghanfoo, Tristan Lutze, Audrey Bourget Illustrator: Barry Patenaude Editors: Monica Burton, Lesley Suter, Matt Buchanan, Erin DeJesus Copy editors: Rachel P. Kreiter, Emma Alpern Fact checkers: Dawn Mobley, Lisa Wong Macabasco Engagement editors: Adam Moussa, Milly McGuinness Project manager: Ellie Krupnick Special thanks to Sonia Chopra, Patty Diez, Amanda Kludt

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Melbourne, Victoria

Guide to Melbourne

Aboriginal name:  Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)

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Melbourne is Australia's mecca for all things trendy and tasty. The city offers up exquisite dining, exhilarating sport and abundant opportunities to experience art.

A perfect blend of rich cultural history and new age trends is waiting for you in Melbourne. As the sun goes down, the city comes to life with a vibrant dining scene as well as events and exhibitions. Explore its bustling laneways, trendy neighbourhoods and sophisticated foodie scene to get a taste of what Melbourne is all about.

Melbourne stands on the ancient grounds of the Kulin Nation of the Wurundjeri people. For the Kulin Nation, Melbourne has always been an important meeting place for events of social, educational, sporting and cultural significance. Experience the culture through a range of heritage walks, cultural tours and galleries.

• Traditional name of Central Melbourne: Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)
• Indigenous Peoples of Central Melbourne: Wurundjeri people
• Traditional lands of Greater Melbourne: Kulin Nation
• Traditional languages: There are four traditional languages in Narrm. Bunurong (Bun-wurrung), Taungurung (Tung-ger-rung), Wathaurong (Wadha-wurrung) and Dja Dja Wurrung (Jar-Jar-Wur-rung).
• How to say g’day in Wathaurong: Wominjeka

Getting to Melbourne is easy with flights arriving direct to two airports. 

• Melbourne Airport at Tullamarine (MEL) is 22km (14mi) from the city and services international and domestic arrivals
• Avalon Airport (AVV) is 55km (34mi) from the city and services international and domestic flights 
• Hire cars, taxis, rideshares and a shuttle service are available from both airports

Getting around  is just as easy as finding a great cup of coffee in Melbourne. The city offers clean, reliable and affordable public transport services. There is even a free City Circle tram line with historical commentary.

Despite having four distinct seasons,  Melbourne's weather  is known for being a bit unpredictable. Summers are generally warm and winters cold, but just ask a local and they’ll tell you that it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day. So whenever you decide to visit, be sure to pack layers and carry an umbrella in your day bag. 

• High season: Spring and summer (November to February)
• Low season: Winter (June to August)
• Don’t miss: Melbourne’s world-class festivals and events

Melbourne is a dynamic city with plenty of accessible options for accommodation, attractions , restaurants , cafés and shopping . 

• Arrival: Disability assistance is available at Melbourne Airport, including for those with hidden disabilities .
• Getting around: Most Melbourne buses and trains have accessible options – check the Public Transport Victoria website  for information on using public transport.
• Accessible experience highlights: Several cultural institutions cater to travellers with accessibility and sensory needs, including the National Gallery of Victoria and Scienceworks .
• Helpful resources: Travellers Aid Australia provides mobility equipment hire and recharge points, while the City of Melbourne’s mobility map makes it easy to locate accessible facilities.

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Melbourne Travel Guide

Sophisticated, stylish, free-spirited: Melbourne lucked out and has all of Australia's best personality traits. There's more risk-taking and art-making in Oz's second-biggest city, so the ideal trip samples some of the world-class art (be it street or studio), its famed coffee and cuisine (Attica's Ben Shewry can do no wrong), and a beach town that has a hint of Coney Island...

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The Best Restaurants in Melbourne

The best restaurants in Melbourne, according to me, don’t always come with a Chef’s Hat (Australia’s equivalent of a Michelin star). I worked in marketing and PR for the hospitality industry in Melbourne for three years (and now do the same, but in New York), so eating at restaurants around the city was as much a personal passion as professional research.

My favourite restaurants in Melbourne range from historic, 100+ year old institutions like O’Connell’s, to game-changing contemporary restaurants that have stood the test of time like Movida, to new kids on the block who are charting their own path, like Atlas Dining.

I’ve handpicked restaurants that I really believe add to the soul of Melbourne, and offer a memorable and genuine dining experience for locals and travelers alike.

Explore More: Melbourne Travel Guide  

Bar Lourinha

Bar Lourinha was the first “good” restaurant I visited in Melbourne, courtesy of my uncles Matt & Thomas, who took me for dinner when I was visiting Melbourne, a couple of years before I moved there. I’ve returned several times since and it never fails to surprise and delight. This tiny Iberian tapas bar has been a mainstay on Little Collins for more than a decade – not an easy feat in Melbourne’s competitive and fickle hospitality landscape. Book a table or try your luck with a walk in for tapas and raciones such as queso san simon & congo potato cigars, spring bay mussels with fino, mojo picon & spicy crumbs and  morcilla & walnut migas.

It’s owned by Chef Matt McConnell, who is one of the three chef-restauranteur McConnell brothers. While his brother Andrew McConnell has more restaurants, a higher profile and is generally more celebrated, Matt’s tiny Little Collins St restaurant is my favourite from their family.

Trattoria Emilia

There is no shortage of great Italian food in Melbourne, but Trattoria Emilia is my absolute favourite. Opened in 2015 by Chef-Owners Francesco Rota and Luca Flammia, Trattoria Emilia is exactly as the name suggests: a trattoria is a slightly more casual and inviting version of a restaurant, and the cuisine focuses on Emilia-Romagna, Italy’s most celebrated food region. It manages to make every meal feel like a special occasion, at the same time as nailing that perfect warm, inviting and unfussy atmosphere that makes you want to linger for hours. In true Melbourne style, this cosy restaurant can be found down a CBD laneway – in Gills Alley off Little Collins Street.

Housed in a narrow Victorian terrace house on South Yarra’s Toorak Road, Da Noi is an elegant and yet homely Sardinian restaurant that is perfect for a special occasion. Chef-Owner Pietro Porcu draws on his childhood growing up on a farm in Sardinia, to inspire his farm-to-table Italian cuisine at Da Noi.The menu changes daily, and you won’t see a menu (unless you ask for the a la carte, few do). Instead, the opt for the tasting menu and wait for what comes out of the kitchen. Most of the produce comes from the family’s farm in Victoria, and you’re in very good hands. This is where my boyfriend and I celebrated when we found out that he had been approved for a transfer to New York City , so Da Noi has a very special place in my heart.

Lesa was one of the most anticipated restaurant openings in Melbourne in 2018. It was preceded by it’s wine bar sibling Embla, which won a string of awards when it opened and is widely regarded as one of the best bars in Melbourne. When co-owners Chef Dave Verheul and restaurateur Christian McCabe announced they were opening a restauran upstairs, Melbourne waited with baited breath. Whereas Embla is noisy and buzzy and busy, Lesa is quiet, elegant and relaxed. It bucks a few major Melbourne dining trends, too. First, rather than hip hop blaring from the speakers, it goes old school with some quiet jazz. Next, save for the bread and the salad, nothing is shared. You’ll wish you weren’t sharing the bread – the two-day potato flatbread comes with a ramekin half filled with pearly macadamia cream, and half with smoked shiitake mushrooms. It’s a modern restaurant, with the atmosphere of a dining room from yesteryear. Lesa serves a four-course tasting menu, with three options for each course. I am still thinking about my dessert, which was cherry four ways.

Osteria Ilaria

Can’t get into Tipo 00? Little sister  Osteria Ilaria is much more than just a consolation prize. This stylish Italian restaurant also books out early, but you’ve got a better chance of getting a table, as well as still enjoying a very special meal. The modern Italian restaurant is the second from Executive Chef Andreas Papadakis (ex-Vue de Monde), Luke Skidmore and Alberto Fava, and takes a more open-minded approach to European cuisine, borrowing ideas from here and there, to support it’s solid Italian foundations.

O’Connell’s Centenerary Hotel

O’Connell’s is a gorgeous, historic gastropub in the quiet, leafy backstreets of South Melbourne There are always beautiful, produce-forward dishes for veggie-heavy and pescatarian diners, like me, but my boyfriend and my Dad (and most of Melbourne’s top businessmen) are big fans of their longstanding classics like beef & guinness pie, the veal schnitzel and a variety of steaks and beef sharing boards.  Full disclosure, I used to be the marketing manager for O’Connell’s, but it is genuinely my favourite venue I’ve ever worked with in Melbourne, and will visit every time I’m back in town.

Much more casual than any of the other entries so far on this list, Tokyo Tina is a irreverent, upbeat, loosely Japanese restaurant on Chapel Street in Windsor. The neighbourhood boasts a glut of trendy, modern Asian restaurants, but Tokyo Tina is favourite of them all. The restaurant is part of Commune Group, which own a handful of popular restaurants on Melbourne’s southside, including nearby Hanoi Hannah and wine bar Neptune. Head Chef Sushil Aryal has done stints at Melbourne icons like Cutler & Co and Cumulus Inc, and spent 12 months travelling through 22 countries in search of fresh flavour ideas. Needless to say, it pays off on the plate.

MoVida is a Melbourne icon, and is credited with introducing Austalian diners to authentic tapas and raciones since opening in 2003. Barcelona-born, Australian-raised Chef-Owner Frank Camorra has become one of the city’s most celebrated modern chefs, and the restaurant’s popularity has endured to this day, nearly twenty years later – no small feat in a fickle, big-city dining scene. It’s success has led to two additional Movida locations in Melbourne and one in Lorne on the Great Ocean Road. If you’re in Melbourne, you can’t beat the location of the original Movida in graffiti-covered Hosier Lane, the city’s most famous (and tourist-clogged) laneway. The newfound popularity of tapas and raciones also played no small part in driving Melbourne’s obsession with small plates and restaurants tucked away in laneways and alleyways.

I adore this tiny, neighbourhood Spanish restaurant in St Kilda. Yet another wonderful restaurant introduced to me by my two in-the-know uncles, I’ve had dinner at Las Tapas a few times and love it each and every time. There’s no menu on the tables, but the daily menu is written on the chalkboard above the bar. The owners are Spanish, and it always feels lively and unpretentious, and the food is superb.

Mamasita is often credited as starting the craze for modern Mexican restaurants in Melbourne, and has inspired dozens of imitators since opening in 2010. Argentinian Head Chef Martin Zozaya draws upon his childhood in Mexico and what’s current in the Mexican food scene, to deliver a modern and slightly experimental take on regional Mexican cuisine. My favourite dishes are the street style corn on the cob, the crab & prawn tostaditas and the fish tacos. Mezcaliers (like sommeliers, for mezcal) will happily guide you through their lengthy tequila and mezcal lists, but don’t skip their signature tamarind margarita.

Owners Nick Peters & Matt Lane were among the first to institute a “no bookings” policy, which is now the norm across Melbourne. There’s still a line out the door every night, so put your name down early and then head to a nearby bar to wait it out – if the weather is nice, try the nearby rooftops at Siglo or Imperial Bourke Street. If it is not (and it’s Melbourne, so that’s likely), hole up in cocktail bar Romeo Lane while you wait.

Named after the bohemian barrio in Buenes Aires, San Telmo is a lively and romantic Argentinian steakhouse, tucked away in an alleyway off Little Collins Street. I don’t even eat meat, but I still found so much to love on the menu, especially the selection empanadas and ceviche. The owners, brothers Dave & Mickey Parker and Jason and Renee McConnell, started with San Telmo and have since brought the flavours of other parts of South America to Melbourne with Palermo and Pastuso.

Pastuso comes from the same team as San Telmo, and has a similar upbeat energy and ethos, despite offering a different South American cuisine. Tucked away at the end of famous AC/DC Lane, off Flinders Lane, Pastuso is a gorgeous restaurant that celebrates the food of Peru from the coast, to the mountains, to the jungle. Peruvian-born Executive Chef Alejandro Saravia is widely credited with introducing Peruvian cuisine to Australian dining, and Head Chef Juan Berbeo, has been recognized in a leading newspaper in his native Colombia, as pioneering the cuisine in Australia.

What’s your favourite restaurant in Melbourne? Are any of these restaurants on your list?

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Melbourne is culturally diverse and offers plenty to keep you entertained. Sip freshly brewed coffee in the hipster hangout of St. Kilda in the morning; in the afternoon, pick up the finer points of Aussie Rules Football (“footy”) at Melbourne Cricket Ground. Later, take in the mix of the city’s Victorian and modern architecture on a walking tour. After hours, Melbourne doesn’t skip a beat—plays, concerts, and nightclubs abound. If you get itchy feet, renowned Yarra Valley wineries and the world’s smallest penguins are both just a short drive away.

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Can’t miss things to do in Melbourne

Though Melbourne really does have something for everyone, there are certain attractions that all visitors should see. Federation Square and its neighbor, Flinders Street Station, give you a sense of the city’s thrumming pulse and offer top quality people-watching. The fact that they’re situated in one of the city’s best café districts is a bonus—you can’t visit Melbourne without sniffing out the perfect coffee. Step on the free City Circle Tram to tour the Central Business District, hopping on and off whenever the mood strikes. After exploring the CBD, visit beachside St. Kilda, which is hipster central. Further afield, the famed Great Ocean Road and Yarra Valley wine region make ideal day trips.

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is the centerpiece of the city’s thriving sports culture. You don’t have to know the rules to enjoy yourself—locals are more than happy to help newbies understand Aussie Rules Football (“footy”) or cricket. This venue hosts some of the country’s most important sports matches, including the annual Boxing Day Test, an international cricket match that plays to crowds upwards of 100,000, as well as the Australian Open, where the world’s best tennis players converge each January. Sport is so important in Melbourne that even if you don’t visit the MCG, you’ll still encounter athletes—whether it’s rowers on the Yarra or runners waking up early to crisscross the city grid.

Food and drink to try in Melbourne

Diverse cuisines flourish in Melbourne, and local chefs who train abroad tend to return, adding to the spread. Australian chefs feature regularly in the world’s top culinary lists, and Melbourne is home to many of the best. Start your day in the CBD, where the smell of roasting coffee wafts along cobblestone lanes. Make lunch memorable at Supernormal, or track down a food truck such as Beatbox Kitchen, which specializes in burgers and fries. For dinner, indulge in fine local cuisine at Attica (headed up by Ben Shewry), Cutler & Co, or Vue de Monde on the 55th floor of the Rialto building. Save room for dessert. Om Nom and Café Vue at Heide Museum of Modern Art are famous for dreaming up ornate sweet treats that look as lovely as they taste.

Culture in Melbourne

Melbourne is on the cutting edge of cultural and culinary trends, but also takes time to honor its Aboriginal past. See public artworks like those at Birrarung Marr park, as just one example. The synthesis of old and new is found throughout the city—turn-of-the-century Flinders Street Station stands just across the road from ultra-modern Federation Square. As for the city’s people, they’re get-up-and-go types who love the active lifestyle and high culture Melbourne offers. Join them by booking reservations at the finest restaurants, taking in a footy game at MCG, or touring the galleries of the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art.

Practical Information

Melbourne’s mild weather makes it an ideal shoulder-season destination. June and July are the coolest months; November and December are the wettest. Melbourne Airport, also known as Tullamarine Airport, receives international flights and is the point of entry for most visitors. American citizens are required to have a passport and visa to enter Australia. Set on Port Phillip Bay and bisected by the Yarra River, Melbourne is compact and easily navigable. The CBD is laid out in a grid, which makes exploring by foot easy. The city’s tram system is the biggest in the world, so no car is needed here. Tipping isn’t standard in Australia, but a 10 percent gratuity is a nice way to reward good service. Electricity is 240 volts and plugs are Type I.

Guide Editor

Steve Bramucci

The VICE Guide to the Best Filipino Restaurants in Melbourne

Here are VICE’s picks for Filipino food in Melbourne

1. cebu charcoal lechon belly filipino eatery – sunshine north, 2. super rapsa – dandenong.

Filipino sisig.

End of an Era: What Will Happen to the Iconic Chinese-Australian Restaurant?

3. kariton sorbetes – footscray, chinatown and glen waverley, 4. migrant coffee filipino cafe – west footscray.

Filipino food, in sandwich form at Migrant Coffee in West Fooscray.

5. Filipino BBQ House – Springvale South

6. barkada pinoy – melbourne cbd.

SKEWERS!!!!!!

7. Askal – Melbourne CBD

Filipino fine dining at Aksal. Photo: Instagram.

8. Pinoy Diner – Werribee

Melbourne’s paramount food court is more than you think, 9. tambayan – cairnlea, 10. lutong pinoy – deer park.

Lechon kawali

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Absolutely EVERYTHING to see, do and experience in Australia

Melbourne Travel Guide (See, Do, Eat, Stay, Save & More!)

Travelling to Melbourne and think it’s going to be just another big city? Think again. Melbourne is bursting with quirks, things to do, its unique culture and identity, diversity and is definitely one of the best places to visit in Australia .

Spending time in Melbourne, whether it’s a few days or you’ve decided to move to Melbourne, there are some things you need to learn about the city and how to make the most of your time in this awesome place. Read on for all the things you should know in this Melbourne travel guide (written by a local!)

Table of Contents

• 1.1 A Quick Guide to Melbourne Culture
• 1.2 Understand the Lingo
• 1.3 Be Prepared for Melbourne’s Weather
• 1.4 How to Get Around Melbourne (and from the airport)
• 1.5 Where to Stay in Melbourne
• 2.1 Food Scene
• 3 Melbourne is the Sporting Capital of Oz
• 4 Top 10+ Things You Must Do in Melbourne
• 5 Amazing Day Trips Near Melbourne

A Complete Melbourne Travel Guide (by a local!)

A quick guide to melbourne culture.

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria located in Southern Australia and is both an international gateway and a fantastic marker for Australian road trips. Visiting Melbourne is a unique trip in itself though because there is a culture in the city that residents abide by and tourists can sense.

To make the most out of your Melbourne trip, first you need to understand Melbourne culture. Melburnians are liberal, laidback, cool and accepting people. Melbourne is a multicultural city and the diversity is reflected in the street art, neighbourhoods, food, museums, galleries and events. The city is LGBTQ+ friendly .

You must learn the ways of the weather, catch a few Melbourne phrases, order the correct coffee, integrate music into your visit, know that the centre of the city is known as the CBD and confidently wear all black, every day.

Understand the Lingo

It’s not just the drinks lingo unique to Melbourne, all the locals seem to have nicknames too. If there’s a Jonathan it’s highly likely that he’ll be known as Jonno and I’m sure your Aussie friends will come up with a nickname for you at some point.

Above all, it’s the everyday language in Melbourne that is a great experience to live and work amongst, and if you meet locals on your travels then you’ll get to hear their talk too about the footie, their beloved Straya and when they answer ‘yeah, nah’ and you’re not 100% if it was a yes or a no.

Just remember, most things are abbreviated so: afternoon is arvo, avocado is avo, McDonalds is Maccas and, one of the most famous, a barbecue is a barbie!

Be Prepared for Melbourne’s Weather

There are some of the most gorgeous sunsets found on the city outskirts looking over the skyline, the most torrential hailstones, wind that can knock your socks off, blistering Australian heat and risk of flooding. That can all happen in one day. Yes, in one day!

Although it sounds apocalyptic to everyone outside of Melbourne, none of the locals bat an eyelid because it’s a normal occurrence. It will be the height of summer and you’ll see Melburnians carrying an umbrella in their bags or it’s a miserable, rainy day but some of the locals have planned a barbecue that afternoon. That’s because of the high likelihood of the weather flipping and how they are so accustomed to four seasons in one day.

To be prepared:

• Don’t be surprised when this happens on your trip and don’t get too annoyed about it, it’ll probably change in an hour
• Be mindful of the change in the weather and carry anything you may need like an umbrella or sun cream
• Embrace the wonder that is the weather in Melbourne and treat it as a part of the culture in the city
• Read our guide to the Best Time to Visit Melbourne (A Month by Month Guide) for more details!

How to Get Around Melbourne (and from the airport)

Once you’ve escaped the international airport, It’s so easy to get around Melbourne because the public transportation is reliable and often. The main means of transport is the inner-city tram but there are also train lines, buses and efficient, ever-growing Uber, Ola and DiDi.

To get around with any of the public transportation, you must get a myki card (pronounced my-kee). This little black piece of plastic is a key to the city. You can top up at most stops and 7/11s and all you have to do is tap it on for your journey. Be mindful that there are inspectors who check if people have tapped on and unlike Sydney, you cannot use a debit or credit card directly on the machines – you HAVE to have a Myki.

Tip: If you get the tram and you’re within Melbourne CBD (Central Business District), then you don’t have to tap on or tap off because the CBD is a completely free zone.

Another note about getting around Melbourne is the fact that traffic lights and stopping at crossings are taken seriously and the rules are followed very strictly. There is no jay-walking and you’ll soon get used to stopping every few blocks to cross the road and hearing the familiar sound that allows you to cross. So many people associate this noise with walking around Melbourne.

Where to Stay in Melbourne

• United Backpackers Melbourne (Backpackers <$50) United Backpackers has been voted the best backpackers in town and has the best location, directly opposite the iconic Flinders Street Station and 50 meters from Federation Square and the beautiful Yarra River. Check Prices for later  | Read Reviews
• Travelodge Hotel Melbourne Southbank (Mid-Range hotel <$200) The Travelodge is located in the heart of Southbank, close to the Yarra River and walking distance to many tourists attractions, restaurants, bars and the shopping precinct. Check Prices for later | Read Reviews
• Crown Towers (Luxury >$300) The Crown Tower is undoubtedly the most luxurious hotel in Melbourne. The rooms have recently been renovated and some have uninterrupted views of the Yarra and the city. Located in Southbank, it has the perfect location. Check Prices for later | Read Reviews on Trip Advisor

Where to Eat & Drink in Melbourne

Understanding the culture surrounding food and drink in Melbourne is something you will acquire over time spent in the city and eating/drinking out but there are some obvious points to learn about locals and the drinking/eating out culture.

The diverse food scene is one of the best parts of Melbourne and there are hundreds of quirky Melbourne eateries to choose from. Given that Melbourne has the largest Greek population outside of Greece, it’s obvious that the Greek food is authentic and delicious. There’s also Melbourne Chinatown with authentic Hot Pots (an absolute must-eat in Melbourne where you choose your own ingredients from shelves, pick a broth and they whip it up in under 10 minutes). Also, go to Lygon Street for the best, authentic Italian cuisine.

Don’t forget to try the Australian specialties too like a burger with an egg and beetroot, a parmigiana (fondly known to the locals as a ‘parmie’), an Australian pie and pavlova for dessert.

Our Melbourne CBD Restaurant Recommendations:

• Supernormal;
• Rice Paper Scissors.

Brunch is a way of life in Melbourne and has become ingrained in the culture. You’ll find brunch almost everywhere in Melbourne and to find some gems, get out to the suburbs of Melbourne. In addition, bottomless brunch is also popular with locals on the weekends and you can find some great deals to drink as much as you can in two hours with, of course, a choice of brunch.

Our recommended brunch spots in Melbourne:

• Top Paddock for brunch;
• Baco Brunswick for a Mexican inspired bottomless brunch; and
• Fargo and Co (Richmond) for typical Aussie fare and bottomless prosecco, mimosas + schooners of house beer !

Coffee is an integral part of Melbourne life. Everyone drinks coffee and everyone has their order perfected. It’s quite hard to find a bad coffee in Melbourne (even the 7/11 ones are good and cost just a dollar). There is an art to serving coffee so it will be hard to get a barista job in Melbourne without some experience (unless you luckily find a gig where they train you). There is no such thing as ordering ‘a coffee’. You must be specific in what coffee you want. Things to ask for:

• Type of coffee. E.g. Latte, Cappuccino, Macchiato,
• Caffeinated or Decaf
• How strong. E.g. half a shot, double, treble
• Frothy or flat
• Type of milk. E.g. full fat, skinny, oat, almond
• Sugar, sweetener or syrup
• How hot. E.g. Extra hot

It may seem like an ordeal but once you know, you know and you’ll notice every time a tourist asks for ‘a coffee’.

Insider Tips: As the undisputed coffee snobs of Australia, Melburnians are proud of the coffee culture, and some of the best drops can be found in the inner city suburbs. Head to Industry Beans in Brunswick Street or Heartattack and Vine in Carlton.

Melbourne is the Sporting Capital of Oz

The religion in Melbourne is Australian Rules Football via the Australian Football League (AFL). I have never seen anything like the day of the AFL Grand Finale. The streets were silent and the shops and public transport were empty because if they weren’t at work, every single Melburnian resident was either at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (above), at home or in a pub watching (and screaming at) the final game. Afterwards, there were swarms of people coming back to the city and the game colours looked like a moving parade through Melbourne CBD.

It’s not just the footie that is a major event in Melbourne, as the ground’s namesake above, cricket is a huge deal in Melbourne (and in Australia as a whole) and many international and major matches are played in the heart of Melbourne.

The famous Australian Open is a tennis tournament held in Melbourne every January and is the first of four global events across the year including French Open, Wimbledon and US Open. The Australian Open is a huge deal in Melbourne with lots of hype around the city in the lead up and promotions in bars/pubs for the matches. If you don’t have tickets to see the action live, the games are shown on a big screen in Federation Square and there’s other pop-up competitions around Melbourne for the chance to win tickets! It’s a fun time to be in Melbourne whether you like Tennis or not.

There’s also the Australian Grand Prix held a few weeks after the Australian Open and is a significant event for motor racers around the world. Formula One is hosted in Melbourne’s Albert Park Circuit every year with lots of hype and promotion for the event around the city. In Melbourne, you can hear the cars racing and revving from miles away and you can make your way to St Kilda on Tram number 96 to get in on the action of the competition.

Every November is a ‘race that stops the nation’, another sporting importance called the Melbourne Cup, Australia’s most famous horse racing competition, held in none other than its namesake, Melbourne. Venues all over Melbourne take advantage of this time of year and host fancy bottomless brunches and other organised afternoons specifically to show the Melbourne Cup. It’s a day where everyone dresses in their Sunday best, gambles and drinks.

A good place that will show almost all the sporting games is the Crown Casino, arguably its own landmark in Melbourne CBD, found next to the Yarra River. Visiting the Crown Casino is a must in Melbourne anyway but a good excuse to visit is to watch a sports game.

Hopefully, you can now understand why sport is of cultural significance for Melburnians with all the sporting events they hold in their city!

Top 10+ Things You Must Do in Melbourne

• Soar to the Southern Hemisphere’s highest viewing point, Eureka Skydeck (one of the ‘highest’ Melbourne attractions)
• Visit Melbourne’s Market lanes and street markets such as Queen Victoria Market (above), South Melbourne Market, Prahran Market and Flinders Lane for local produce, fresh food, books and vintage finds.
• Get tickets for the National Gallery of Victoria and Ian Potter Centre for exhibitions, art and history.
• Learn the history of prisoners in Australia and Old Melbourne Gaol in an immersive experience.
• Enjoy a picnic (with your goods from the markets) in one of the parks such as Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria or Fitzroy Gardens.
• See some live music.
• Mix Art and Culture as you explore the impressive street art in Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, Centre Place and more (it’s actually one of the best Free Things to do in Melbourne ).
• Take a picture outside iconic Flinders Street Station.
• Shopping at DFO South Wharf.
• See the penguins at night in the seaside suburb, St Kilda .
• Drive one of the World’s most scenic drives on a Great Ocean Road road trip . There are more day trips below but this is an absolute must which is why it’s made the top 10. (Read our 3 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary if you have more time!)

Amazing Day Trips Near Melbourne

• Great Ocean Road for scenic drives, spotting Koalas and Kangaroos and skydiving.
• Official Neighbours Tour in Melbourne for any Jason and Charlene fans.
• Mornington Peninsula for golden bay area, swimming with seals, and wineries.
• Phillip Island for wildlife and the world-famous penguin parade.
• Wilsons Promontory for the most southern part of Australia.
• Geelong for craft brewery tours.
• Dandenong Ranges for hiking and the Puffing Billy Steam Train.
• Grampians National Park or Macedon Ranges for hiking.
• Yarra Valley for Australian wine.

Hopefully, after reading our Melbourne Travel Guide you’re now in a great position to arrive in Melbourne with a plan to enjoy the city and the many things to do and experience in Melbourne. Enjoy your time and we hope you can use this travel information and travel guide for Melbourne to plan the perfect trip.

Have we covered everything you wanted to know about Melbourne? Let us know in the comments! And if you know of anyone heading to Melbourne and needs little help planning their trip, please share this article with them via Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, Whatsapp or Flipboard. Just remember, sharing is caring!

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Melbourne Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 3, 2023

The city has a European feel to it and is popular with backpackers and young travelers looking to enjoy its laid-back vibe.

With plenty of culture, activities, art exhibitions, and live music, you could easily spend over a week here and not regret it. Heck, you might end up like so many other travelers and never leave! You definitely don’t want to rush your visit here. There’s a lot to see and do, and plenty of amazing places to eat at.

This travel guide to Melbourne will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time here.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Melbourne

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Melbourne

1. Admire the 12 Apostles

One of the most iconic sights in the country, the 12 Apostles are a series of limestone rocks just off the Great Ocean Road along the coast of Australia (the route is an Australian National Heritage-listed section of highway with stunning coastal views). You’ll likely want to make this a multi-day visit as the Apostles are 275 kilometers outside the city and are best seen on a drive along the coast. However, if you’re pressed for time you can take a full-day tour along the Great Ocean Road for just 135 AUD.

2. See the Fitzroy Gardens

Fitzroy Gardens is one of Melbourne’s most historic and beautiful gardens. Created in 1848 (the land here was originally a swamp), this 26-hectare (64-acre) Victorian-era garden is meant to look like the English gardens the early settlers left behind. It’s a lovely place to stroll around and relax with a book, with plenty of tree-lined paths and areas to sit and relax with a book. If you visit on a Saturday, you can join a free guided walking tour at 10am starting from the visitor center.

3. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens spans over 34 hectares (86 acres) and features thousands of flowers, shrubs, and trees from across the country and around the world (there are over 50,000 plants here). Hanging out here and wandering around is one of my favorite activities in Melbourne. There is a cafe called The Terrace where you can grab a coffee while you stroll the gardens. There are free guided walks too. Admission is free.

4. Watch the sunset from the beach

Head to St. Kilda to watch the sunset. It’s a beautiful, wide beach, but the water is a little too cold for me. However, it faces due west, so you get some stellar sunsets before you head out for a night on the town. If you’re around the pier and get lucky, you may even spot a penguin (there’s a small colony of them here). Just remember not to feed to touch them!

5. Explore Queen Victoria Market

This outdoor market is a mix of food sellers and knick-knack vendors — think flea market meets food market. During the week, the food hall is the main draw, but the weekend offerings are bigger, as sellers fill up the outdoor vending space. Opened in 1878, it’s a heritage landmark that sees over 10 million people each year. When you’re in the food hall, be sure to get some free wine samples from Swords Wines.

Other Things to See and Do in Melbourne

1. enjoy the cafés.

The café culture in this city is part of its soul. Everyone here loves to have coffee or tea and a snack while doing some work or chatting in some arty café. Don’t miss doing this either. You can take the café tour with Café Culture Walk or Melbourne Coffee Lovers Walking Tour to learn more about why Melbournians love their cafés so much and then spend an afternoon with a good book at your new favorite spot.

2. Indulge in a wine tour

Wine tours are super popular in this region. The Mornington Peninsula in the outer suburbs of Melbourne is a world-famous wine-producing region. Located 45 minutes from the city, it’s home to over 50 wineries. There are a lot of day trips available to the Yarra Valley too (which is where most tours take you). If you don’t have your own car or don’t feel like spending the night in the area, full-day wine tours from Melbourne start around 150 AUD per person.

3. Party in St. Kilda

Melbourne’s famous nightlife area is home to inexpensive restaurants, bars, and clubs — it’s the place to see and be seen. If you want to find Melbourne’s wild side, this is where it will be. Base Melbourne is one of my favorite places to go party if you want to hang out with other travelers — and a few locals! Their downstairs bar is popular and has cheap drinks.

4. Moonlight Cinema in the Park

During the summer, there are nightly movies (most of them are major Hollywood features) in the Royal Botanic Gardens. You can bring your own food and drinks (including alcohol) and have a cozy picnic while watching some great movies. Think of it like going to the drive-in but without the car. Just make sure to check the weather in advance and to bring a blanket to sit on as well as a sweater (it can get a little chilly sometimes). Tickets start at 19 AUD but you may be able to find a deal on Groupon to save a few dollars.

5. Flinders Street Station

Opened in 1854, Flinders Street Station is a major landmark and popular meeting place in central Melbourne. The station features Victorian architecture and large clock faces. It was the busiest railway station in the world in the 1920s and is said to currently be the busiest suburban railway station in the Southern Hemisphere.

6. Hang out in Federation Square

Right along the route of the free City Circle train and across the street from Flinders Street Station lies Federation Square. Opened in 1968, this open square spans around 3 hectares (8 acres) and serves up stellar people-watching. I like to have lunch here and just watch the city go by. Below the square on the river are also a number of restaurants and outdoor bars. In the summer, there are often all kinds of different events here as well.

7. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

Located near Federation Square, the National Gallery of Australia is the largest, oldest, and most-visited art museum in the country (over 3 million people visit each year). It’s home to over 75,000 works including modern and contemporary art, sculptures, paintings, and works from indigenous artists. You can see pretty much everything in a couple of hours. It’s one of the best activities in the city. Admission is free though temporary exhibits may have an admission charge.

8. See the State Library of Victoria

The State Library of Victoria is a historic institution that sees 8 million visitors a year. Originally built in 1856, the library has grown into an event space that’s a source of pride for city residents. Come here before it opens and you’ll see a queue of people ready to pounce on the open desks. The famous central rotunda with its octagonal shape, original dark wood furniture, and book-lined walls is definitely something not to miss. There are a number of free events and tours of the library to teach you more about its history and striking architecture.

9. Wander the Como House and Gardens

Over 160 years old, this regal estate blends a mix of classic Italianate architecture and Australian regency. It’s considered the best of the historic houses in the city and offers a rare glimpse at the luxurious and opulent life of high society in 19th century Australia. Guided tours are available for 15 AUD if you want to learn more about this beautiful mansion and its history. Admission to the gardens is free.

10. Visit the Immigration Museum

Founded in 1998, The Immigration Museum is located in the Old Customs House and features exhibitions about Australia’s immigration history. Europeans started flocking to the country in 1788, bringing with them their own cultures that eventually swept the island and displaced the Aboriginal peoples who called the island home for over 50,000 years. Admission is 15 AUD.

11. See the Melbourne Museum

The Melbourne Museum showcases Australian social history, indigenous cultures, science, and the environment. The highlight of the museum, for me, was the extensive Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Center, which highlights the culture, art, and history of the Aboriginal peoples. They also have a children’s section that’s great for anyone traveling with kids. Admission is 15 AUD.

12. Plan a day trip to Phillip Island

Located a few hours from the city, Phillip Island is a weekend hot spot for locals looking to enjoy some beach time. The island is renowned for the nightly penguin parade (when thousands of penguins return from the sea to nest), its koala sanctuary, and the huge seal colony that lives offshore. The island can be visited as a day trip, but due to infrequent buses, I would recommend spending at least a night here.

13. Enjoy the festivals

Melbourne is a major festival city, with many events throughout the year: Comedy Festival, Aussie Rules football match, Spring Racing Carnival in November, the Melbourne Cup (part of a weeklong racing festival), and many more. Stop by the local tourism office (or ask your hotel/hostel staff) to see what’s going on during your visit!

14. Hang out at the markets

There are countless markets spread across Melbourne, from food truck markets to farmer’s markets, and from beach markets to flea markets. They’re fun places to hang out for a couple of hours, enjoying the local life and people-watching.

15. Take a street art tour

I love the tours run by graffiti artists from Blender Studios. It’s pricey at 75 AUD for a 2.5 to 3-hour tour, but the price helps support local artists and includes drinks. The tour takes you through the streets and alleyways of the Melbourne CBD or Fitzroy. You’ll learn about the art scene in the city and develop a deeper appreciation for why Melbourne attracts so many artists.

For more information on other cities in Australia, check out these guides:

• Alice Springs Travel Guide
• Brisbane Travel Guide
• Broome Travel Guide
• Cairns Travel Guide
• Fraser Island Travel Guide
• Gold Coast Travel Guide
• Perth Travel Guide
• Sydney Travel Guide
• Whitsunday Islands Travel Guide

Melbourne Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm room with 6-10 beds costs 25-48 AUD. Private rooms start at 70 AUD though most are closer to 105 AUD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most include free breakfast as well.

For those traveling with a tent, there are a few holiday parks outside the city with basic unpowered tent plots costing 20-60 AUD per night. For more rustic camping, there are a few free parks outside the city if you want to stay further afield (they aren’t close to the city but they are free).

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at 90 AUD per night for a double room. Expect the standard amenities like Wi-Fi, TV, and AC. Prices are higher in the downtown core.

Airbnb is also available around the city with private rooms starting at 30 AUD per night, though they average closer to 120 AUD. For entire homes and apartments, expect to pay at least 85 AUD (though prices are usually double that if not booked early).

Food – Food in Australia is diverse, with each region having its own specialities. You’ll be able to find all types of food in this city. It’s got one of the best food scenes in all of Australia!

You can easily find pizza parlors, noodle bars, and cafes where you can eat for 15-20 AUD. Melbourne is probably the best place to eat cheaply in Australia, especially if you like Asian food. The sushi and Chinese food is out of this world. However, expect to pay at least 20-25 AUD for most sit-down restaurants (without a drink).

There are many cool districts only a train or tram ride from town. Footscray (only 3 train stops away from Southern Cross) is on the water (perfect for walks/picnics) and the latest place to be for food (especially Vietnamese) and entertainment, as well as a market to get cheap food supplies.

Or take a tram up Sydney Road Brunswick and to Coburg for Middle Eastern food. Head to Grazeland in Spotswood for a night out eating & drinking with entertainment with many craft breweries for a great atmosphere and good beers. Fitzroy’s Brunswick St hosts a major strip of restaurants, bars, and pubs.

Grab and go places cost around 10 AUD for sandwiches while fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 12 AUD for a combo meal. Beer costs around 10 AUD (6 AUD during happy hour), a glass of wine is 10-15 AUD, a cocktail is 18-20 AUD, and a latte or cappuccino costs 5 AUD.

A week’s worth of food is 60-80 AUD for basic groceries like pasta, rice, produce, and some fish or meat.

Backpacking Melbourne Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Melbourne for 70 AUD per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in hostel dorms, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and sticking to mostly free activities like free walking tours. If you plan on drinking, add another 10-20 AUD to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 205 AUD per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do some paid activities like going to the Moonlight Cinema or the museums.

On a “luxury” budget of 430 AUD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, take a day tour into the countryside to do some wine tasting, rent a vehicle to get around, go out drinking, and do as many other tours and activities as you want! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AUD.

Melbourne Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Melbourne can eat up your budget fast as restaurants, accommodation, and drinks are expensive. But there are plenty of ways to save money here! Here are some tips to help you save when you visit:

• Drink goon (box wine) – Goon is an infamous staple on the Australian backpacker trail. This cheap box of wine is the best way to drink, get a buzz, and save a lot of money at the same time.
• Cook often – Eating out in Melbourne is not cheap. The best way to reduce your food cost is to cook as many meals as possible at your hostel. Book a hostel with a kitchen to save money.
• Book tours as a package – Australia has a lot of fun activities and exciting tours that will eat into any budget. If you plan on doing any tours while you’re here, booking activities together through a hostel or tour agency can get you a discount and save you tons of money.
• Work for your room – If you’re on a budget and looking to save some cash, many hostels offer travelers the opportunity to work for their accommodation. In exchange for a few hours a day of cleaning, you get a free bed to sleep in. Commitments vary but most hostels ask that you stay for at least a week.
• Get cheap tickets – Check out Half Tix to get cheap deals on live shows and theatre.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation in Melbourne is pricey. If you plan ahead, you can find a fun Couchsurfing host for your visit. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you’ll have a local host that can share their insider tips and advice!
• Use the free City Circle tram – This free hop-on/hop-off tram has stops near most of the city’s biggest tourist attractions. Pick up a free map at a tourist info center, and get on your way!
• Take a free walking tour – I’m Free Walking Tours offers a handful of free walking tours to help you get oriented to Melbourne, and learn all about its sights and history!
• Fill up your water bottle – The tap water is clean and safe to drink in Melbourne. Saving a few bucks for each bottle of water will reduce your daily spending (and help the environment). LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Melbourne

There’s a lot of great budget accommodation in Melbourne. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• Base St Kilda
• Selina St Kilda Melbourne
• The Nunnery

How to Get Around Melbourne

Public transportation – Melbourne’s bus system is safe and reliable and travels between all major hub (shopping centres, attractions, etc.). The fare is determined by how many zones you’ll be travelling in, starting at 3 AUD. A day-pass is 10 AUD. You need a myki card (or the mobile app) to get around.

The bus to and from the airport with Skybus costs 19.75 AUD one-way or 32 AUD return.

Melbourne has a Free Tram Zone in the CBD (Central Business District), stretching from Queen Victoria Market to Docklands, Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, and Spring Street. The City Circle Tram is also free and stops at almost all of the city’s historic sites. You don’t need a myki if you’re using the free system.

Bike rentals – Biking is a great way to explore Melbourne as there are over 135 kilometers (84 miles) of bicycle trails here. You can rent a bike for 25 AUD per day.

Taxis – Taxis are expensive here, starting at 5 AUD per ride and going up almost 2 AUD per kilometer. Skip them if you can!

Ridesharing – Uber is available here.

When to Go to Melbourne

Melbourne is a great spot year-round and there’s always so much to do. I prefer visiting March-May or September-October. These are the shoulder seasons and temperatures are much more comfortable during this time (with the highest being about 24°C/75°F). It’s also less touristy.

The summer months from December to February are the busiest in Melbourne, as it’s Australia’s summer and many tourists flock here to escape the cold. The temperatures during this time are usually in the high 20s°C (high 70s°F), but they’ve been known to climb a lot higher.

Winter in Melbourne (June-August) can be quite cold and dreary, especially in comparison to Sydney and Brisbane. But you’ll certainly get the best travel deals and hotel rates during these months, so it might be worth your time anyway — especially if you’re most interested in the cafe and foodie scene.

How to Stay Safe in Melbourne

Melbourne is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. People are quite friendly and helpful and you’re unlikely to get into trouble.

As Melbourne is a big city, be on alert for pickpockets and keep your valuables secure at all times (as in any other big city), especially while around tourist landmarks or when taking crowded public transportation.

If you’re visiting Melbourne during the summer months, be prepared for high temperatures. Wear sunscreen, cover yourself, and drink plenty of water. Most incidents tend to occur because visitors are not used to the country’s unique climate.

If you’re venturing out of the city, be mindful of wildlife, especially snakes and spiders. If you’re bitten, seek immediate care.

Solo female travelers generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web that can help more!

If you’re worried about travel scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here . There aren’t many in Australia though.

If you experience an emergency, dial 000 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of safety advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Melbourne Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. Just enter your departure and arrival destinations and it will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost. It’s one of the best transportation websites out there!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Australia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Australia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Sydney

Where to Stay in Brisbane: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Brisbane

The Best Walking Tours in Melbourne

The Best Walking Tours in Sydney

Where to Stay in Melbourne: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Melbourne – Best Things To Do, See & Much More

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A Brief History of Melbourne

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As the sporting and cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne has plenty to offer visitors from all over the world. From the rooftop bars and designer boutiques that give the city a cosmopolitan feel, to its plentiful array of historical buildings and landmarks — Melbourne has something new to discover on every corner. You can immerse yourself in Melbourne’s rich Victorian heritage at the Royal Exhibition Building, one of the oldest remaining exhibition pavilions in the world. Or walk a mile in the shoes of the early western settlers, who found themselves paying for their crimes in the eerie but fascinating Melbourne Gaol.

Step straight back into the 21st century at the Scienceworks with plenty of interactive exhibits that link Melbourne’s industry, heritage, and applied technology in one place. Or enjoy the wonderful collection of museums and art galleries dotted throughout the city.

If food is your thing, Melbourne will certainly not disappoint. From traditional Aussie fare to cool contemporary cuisine, there’s a wealth of restaurants, cafes, bistros, and bars to keep your taste buds tempted. A nice cool beer is always on the menu, and so are some of the finest wines in Australia, many of which are produced in the neighboring wine regions and breweries of Victoria.

The city of Melbourne was first founded on the Yarra River in 1835 and went on to enjoy significant growth up until 1850, despite remaining a relatively rural settlement. The Gold Rush in 1851, however, totally transformed the area from a colony of smallholdings into a hotbed of immigration and development, which would later establish Melbourne as Australia’s major financial center.

The State of Victoria saw a major influx of new settlers all looking to strike gold! With them came a steady flow of provisions for housing, food, and mining equipment, which helped over £100 million worth of gold to be plucked from the region in the 1850s alone. With Victoria now being a very wealthy colony, the fortunes of the new Victorians flourished.

The International Exhibition of 1880 placed Melbourne firmly on the map as an important trade center for wool, wheat, and other agricultural products, as well as being Australia’s most refined city.

Despite suffering during the depression of the 1930s, the city rose again in the mid to late 20th century, becoming home to headquarters operations for a lot of the country’s largest companies (many of whom are still based in the city today). Now a culturally diverse city offering some of the best living standards throughout Australia, Melbourne has come a long way from its humble rural roots.

Tip: Flying to Australia? We’ve created a super in-depth guide on the best ways to fly to Australia using points and miles.  

Melbourne is Australia’s second largest city and is considered by many to be the cultural and sporting capital of Australia. For all of its fine restaurants, elegant buildings and historically important landmarks, the city is also extremely welcoming and has a multicultural feel that appeals to most visitors.

If you’d like to know some useful facts and figures before you visit, here are a few to get you going:

Population: 4.8 million

Area (including greater metropolitan area): 9,992.5 square kilometers

Official Language: English

Other Languages Spoken: Melbourne is home to residents from all over the world, and as many as 251 languages can be heard throughout the city every day.

Religion: The major religion of the country is Christianity. In Melbourne this is broken down into the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican Church, Eastern Orthodox, and the Uniting churches.

Current Prime Minister: Malcolm Turnbull

Time Zone: The standard time zone for Melbourne is UTC+10:00 (Coordinated Universal Time), changing to UTC+11:00 when daylight savings time (DST) is in operation.

Currency: Australian Dollar AUD

Country Dialing Code Prefix: +61

Emergency Numbers: Dial 000 and ask for the service you require (police, fire service, or ambulance service)

Open space: 9% (including parks and gardens)

Taxi Cabs: 7,544

Cafes and Restaurants: 2,336

Beaches: Over 30 designated public beaches plus many more private inlets and coastal spaces.

Australia may well be the smallest continent on Earth, but it is a vast region surrounded by water on all sides. Most visitors reach Australia by air, and flight times can be pretty long even from neighboring countries.

Flying Into Melbourne

Opened in the 1970s, Melbourne Airport (also known as Tullamarine Airport) is the only international airport serving the city of Melbourne , and the second busiest airport in Australia .

Avalon Airport, Essendon Airport, and Moorabbin Airport also service the city, but are limited to internal or cargo flights only.

Tullamarine Airport provides international flights to destinations all over the world and is serviced by the following airlines:

Air Asia, Aircalin, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air Mauritius, Air New Zealand, Air Vanuatu, Capital Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Emirates, Etihad, Fiji Airlines, Garuda Indonesia Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Japan Airlines, Jetstar Airlines, Latam Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Qantas Airways, Royal Brunei Airlines, Scoot, Sichuan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines, Thai Airlines, United Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Virgin Australia, Xiamen Air

Once you’ve landed on Australian shores, finding your way to the city of Melbourne is quite straightforward.

Traveling From the Airport to the City

Melbourne Airport offers a dedicated shuttle service from the terminal to the city itself. The SkyBus is the main airport shuttle, which leaves from 2 locations outside the terminals and operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. SkyBus runs to and from Southern Cross Station and leaves every 10 minutes for most of the day.

Tickets are $19 one-way or $38 return for adults; up to 4 children can travel for free. The journey time is usually between 20-40 minutes depending on traffic.

There are other shuttle buses available that run directly to some of the inner-city hotels. Prices range from $18-$25 depending on destination, and there is no need to change buses at Southern Cross Station.

Public transport can also take you from the airport into the CBD (Central Business District). Using a low-cost myki card, you can enjoy a leisurely route on both the train and the bus to reach your accommodation. The 901 bus to Broadmeadows station will let you catch a train for the remaining 40-minute trip to Flinders Street in the CBD. Services run at 15-minute intervals during the week, and every half hour at night and on weekends. Costs vary depending on your destination.

There are currently no direct train links between Melbourne Airport and the city center. If you do want to take the train, you would need to hop on the 901 bus to Broadmeadows Station and then catch the Craigieburn Line train into the city center. You’d need to allow well over an hour for this journey.

There are plenty of taxis located in designated ranks outside the exits of Melbourne Airport. The journey can take anywhere between 40-60 minutes (or sometimes more during busy periods), and it will cost you around $60 for a single journey.

You can pre-book a taxi to pick up you and your luggage from inside the airport if this is simpler. Taxi services like rideways.com and taxicode.com will allow you to book your pickup online.

Uber drivers also operate in and around Melbourne, and you can arrange your pickup simply by using the app on your Smartphone.

Trams are a major form of public transportation in Melbourne, with a network covering over 250 kilometers in the metro area. The City Trams are free, but they don’t extend all they way to the airport. You would need to reach Southern Cross station before enjoying a tram ride or 2.

Once you’ve arrived in the city, there are plenty of options for affordable, reliable, and easily accessible public transportation.

To travel on the Melbourne bus system, you’ll need to purchase a myki card. These cost $6 for adults and $3 for children, and they need to keep a positive balance in order for you to travel. Your myki card can be topped up at over 800 retailers throughout the city. Alternatively, you can purchase a myki explorer pack that combines a ready-to-use myki card with helpful information and special offers for visitors to the city. When you leave, you can even donate your myki card to charity.

Buses run all over the city from around 6:00am until 9:00pm most days, and the Night Network runs all night metropolitan trains, trams, and late night buses on weekends.

You can find more information about bus routes and timetables at Public Transport Victoria .

Trams have been an iconic sight in the city since 1885, and the network now offers over 490 trams covering 24 routes and 1,763 tram stops. It is the largest urban tramway network in the world…and better still, the City Tram Zone is entirely free to travel on! This makes it a great way to explore the inner-city areas. Trams run most days from 8:45am until around 4:00pm.

Again, further details on tram routes and timetables can be found at Public Transport Victoria .

Taxis and Ubers are also plentiful on the streets of Melbourne, and you can hail a car, pick one up at a designated taxi rank, or pre-book a trip online. Melbourne taxis display a light on top of the cab roof and are usually painted yellow, silver, or white. Drivers are required to wear a uniform in the city and display an identity card on the dashboard at all times.

Information about taxi firms, fares, and regulations can be found at the Taxi Services Commission website.

Melbourne’s metro trains run between the outer suburbs and Flinders Street Station. The City Loop is Melbourne’s very own underground system; although small, it offers quick and easy access to 5 stations within the central business district. If you want to travel further into the suburbs or out into Victoria, Southern Cross Station is the main hub for both regional and interstate rail services in and out of Melbourne. You can use your myki card on trains covering the metro area, but trains into the suburbs and beyond will need additional tickets.

For more information about ticketing, fares, and timetables, visit the Public Transport Victoria website.

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Melbourne is collection of different neighborhoods, each one bringing their own unique character and charm into the city. To really get to know Melbourne, spend some time moving between the different suburbs and developing a real taste for the Melbourne way of life.

Melbourne CBD

The Central Business District (or CBD) is the beating heart of the city of Melbourne. From the open spaces, royal gardens, and docklands eateries to the high-end shopping opportunities in Bourke Street Mall and the Melbourne Centre, the city has plenty to see and do. With first class restaurants, cool cafes, boutiques, and old arcades on every corner, a day spent exploring the CBD is a day well spent.

If you want to step back in time, the Old Melbourne Gaol and the Melbourne Aquarium sit nestled among the modern commercial buildings, adding gravity to the district. Meanwhile, the museums and galleries of Federation Square add grandeur. Students, families , and travelers are often seen mixing with commuters on their lunch hours — the CBD is open to everybody.

Where to stay:

• The Langham
• Mercure Welcome

An inner suburb of Melbourne, St Kilda is a beachside neighborhood frequented by backpackers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors. From the glorious mansions of days gone by to the historic Sea Baths and wild rides at Luna Park, St Kilda has a traditional seaside resort feel about it.

Sip coffee on the sea front while you watch the yachts sail by, or sample some of the great cake shops to be found on Acland and Carlisle streets. When night falls, the area’s pubs and music venues fill up with loud music and late night revelers.

• The Blackman
• Melbourne Parkview

Carlton is well known for the wide selection of cafes and restaurants tucked within the Lygon Street Italian precinct, giving this area the local moniker of “Little Italy.” It is also home to the historic Melbourne General Cemetery and Princes Park, playground for Melbourne’s very own Carlton Football Club.

With plenty of leafy avenues and open spaces to enjoy, Carlton Gardens themselves contain the contemporary Melbourne Museum and the domed 19th Century Royal Exhibition Building that has World Heritage status. Carlton is vibrant and friendly, with a truly cosmopolitan feel.

• Carlton Terrace
• Rydges on Swanston
• Best Western Plus

Fitzroy is home to all things alternative in the city of Melbourne. If something is cool and kooky, you can find it here. Secondhand book stalls, vintage clothing stores, quirky boutiques, and independent retailers can all be seen on Brunswick Street. Or stop for a bite in any of the awe-inspiring vegan, vegetarian, or alternative cafes and restaurants dotting the area.

Fitzroy is renowned throughout the whole of Australia for its street art, music scene, and bohemian feel, and it is also the main home of Melbourne’s Fringe Festival . Come and enjoy cocktails with the cool creatives just a short bus ride from the CBD.

• Quest Royal Gardens
• Melbourne Metropole Central

Richmond is a multicultural suburb that welcomes residents from all over the world. It’s best known for Victoria Street, or “Little Saigon,” which is brimming with Asian grocery stores and eateries serving pho and bánh mì. If you’re looking to grab a bargain, the Bridge Road factory outlets offer great valuing clothing, furniture, and design stores.

Many of the historic old buildings that formerly filled the area have been given a new lease on life as cool bars and happening music venues. A little rough around the edges, Richmond has a young but edgy vibe.

• Andre’s Mews
• Richmond Hill Hotel

Williamstown

Williamstown is a highly desirable suburb to visit, and it gets pretty busy all year round. Located right on the waterfront, Williamstown offers a rare combination of open spaces, good facilities, and a wide variety of options all within easy reach of the CBD.

It has lots of residential areas, so Williamstown is a nice place to stop for coffee or ice cream, and the area has a safe, welcoming feel to it. Parking is a nightmare though, and everywhere from the beach to the street can be packed on weekends.

• Quest Williamstown
• Punthill Apartment Hotel

South Yarra

South Yarra is an upmarket suburb of the city that is popular with aspirational professionals and young families. Art deco apartments facing the Yarra are highly sought after, as are well-preserved mansions like the famous Como House.

The streets here are filled with swanky boutiques, fine restaurants, art galleries, and cocktail bars, and Toorak Road or Chapel Street are the places to see and be seen. The Royal Botanic Gardens meet South Yarra at its most northerly point, making them the perfect place to enjoy a jog or picnic away from the apartments and nearby streets.

• Oaks South Yarra
• Hotel Claremont

The Docklands area of the city has been heavily regenerated over the past 20 years and is now a contemporary development full of high-rise apartments and office blocks. Dominated by the colorful Melbourne Star Observation Wheel that keeps a watchful eye over proceedings, the area is now full of big-name shops and ample opportunities for waterside dining.

Pedestrianized plazas are family friendly, and there are public murals, sculptures, and light displays to enjoy. This area is mostly a resort destination, but has a family feel encouraged by visitors coming to see sporting events at Etihad Stadium or enjoy Harbor Town’s mini-golf and sports car simulators.

• Crowne Plaza
• Vibe Savoy Hotel
• The Great Southern Hotel

Situated on the waterfront, Southbank is renowned for great restaurants, amazing public art displays, and upmarket shopping opportunities. The crowds here are sophisticated and worldly; they come to enjoy cultural venues like the Malthouse Theatre (based in a restored brewery) and the state-of-the-art Melbourne Recital Centre’s classical concerts.

The Crown Casino Complex is also nearby, making it a popular part of the city for high rollers. If you want to ensure you’re caught looking super-cool, check out the many al fresco fine dining experiences on the promenade, or spend your night sipping craft beer in a cargo shed.

• Crown Metropol
• Travelodge Hotel Southbank
• Urban Central

For the upwardly mobile and culturally aware, Brunswick offers a laid-back multicultural vibe that is popular with the young, alternative crowd. With plenty of live music venues, upbeat pubs, and beer gardens to choose from, Brunswick is not just a night out: it’s a lifestyle. At the heart of the area lies the Sydney Road, with all its Middle Eastern and Mediterranean eateries, unusual stores, quirky cafes, and lounge bars. Consider this area hipster heaven for Melbourne.

• Best Western
• Victoria Hotel
• Dolma Hotel

Hot Tip: If you enjoy unique accommodations, check out these boutique hotels in Melbourne .

As with most large cities, there are lots of things to do in Melbourne. Here are 10 of the top attractions you definitely should try to see on your trip.

1. Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Opened in 1846 and spread over 89 acres, the Gardens offer a slice of paradise within the city, as well as providing a home to over 8,500 species of plants and the wildlife that coexist with them. For a relaxing day out and a real feel for Australia in times gone by, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria can’t be beaten.

Visit: Open daily from 7:30am to sunset. Entry is free.

Get There: Use tram stop 19, which is the Shrine of Remembrance/St Kilda Rd stop. Via bus, take Route 605 to Melbourne Observatory/Birdwood Avenue.

2. Eureka Skydeck 88

Ride the fastest elevator in the southern hemisphere to the 88 th floor for unparalleled views over Melbourne from the Eureka Skydeck 88 . If that doesn’t impress you, try The Edge , a glass-covered cube that dangles you 300 meters over the city. If you don’t want to enjoy the breathtaking views while suspended in a large transparent box, there is also a nice coffee shop for a more relaxed option.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am. The Skydeck costs $20 and The Edge costs $12.

Get There: Flinders Street train station is just a 5-minute walk over the Yarra River

3. Federation Square

Federation Square is a large mixed-use area in the heart of Melbourne. Packed with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars, it also includes shops selling everything from groceries to souvenirs to high-end fashion. The Square makes a great meeting place in the center of the city, and it’s also home to a wide variety of pop-up shows and exhibitions. Federation Square has a creative program that showcases talent all year round.

Visit: Open 24 hours a day

Get There: Flinders Street train station is the nearest stop; it’s practically right on top of the square.

4. Southbank and Arts Centre Melbourne

Instantly recognizable with its 162-meter spire, the Arts Centre opened in 1982 and is now home to Melbourne’s ballet, opera, theatre, and everything else artistic and creative. The centre often holds outdoor concerts set against the skyscrapers of downtown Melbourne, with lights that dance to the music. With plenty of free entertainment and a full program of events throughout the year, the Southbank and the Arts Centre are always worth a visit.

Visit: Open 7 days a week from early morning to late evening

Get There: Use tram stop 14, Arts Precinct

5. National Gallery of Victoria

Opened in 1968, the National Gallery of Victoria (or NGV) is Australia’s oldest, largest, and most visited art museum. It houses works from across the art world, including Picasso, Monet, Rubens, and many others. For art lovers, the NGV is a must-see.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Entry is free.

6. Melbourne Cricket Ground

Visit the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground , or “G” as it’s known locally, and take a tour of the impressive stadium, with its vast dressing rooms and adjoining function suites. Have a look to see what’s on at the G when you’re there, as it might be something you’d hate to miss — tickets for many events (including cinema screenings) are easily available.

Visit: Tours are 75 minutes and run between 10:00am and 3:00pm daily. Tickets start around $25, depending on the level of tour you choose.

Get There: Use the tram stop MCG – Hisense Arena/Melbourne Park

7. Melbourne Museum

Opened in 2000, the Melbourne Museum is the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. The sprawling complex contains various exhibits, from natural history to cultural displays as well as cinemas, cafes, an amphitheater, and much, much more.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and free for kids.

Get There: On the tram, take route 86 to the corner of Nicholson and Gertrude Streets. By bus, use the Rathdowne Street stop.

8. Captain Cook’s Cottage

Built in 1755, Captain Cook’s Cottage is the oldest building in Australia. It was transported brick by brick from England to Melbourne in 1934. Today, it serves as a historical and cultural center and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country.

Visit: Open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Tickets cost $6.50 for adults.

Get There: By tram, use route 48 and get off at Wellington Parade

9. Shrine of Remembrance

Built in 1934, the Shrine of Remembrance is the Victoria state memorial to Australians who served in global conflicts throughout the nation’s history. Inspired by classical architecture, the Shrine was designed and built by WWI veterans. Special exhibitions and events are held throughout the year, providing an ever-changing experience.

Visit: Tours available daily from the visitor’s center at 11:00am and 12:45pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

Get There: Take tram route 21 to Dallas Brooks Dr/Domain Rd

10. Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

An easy one to spot, the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel stands next to the river and affords amazing views over the city. Flights last 30 minutes and can range from a simple sightseeing trip to a champagne trip, or even a wedding in your own private cabin.

Visit: Open 11:00am to 7:00pm (May to August); 11:00am to 10:00pm (September to April). Prices start at $16.50.

Get There: Take the tram route 86, Bourne Street

If you’re looking to get off the tourist trail and want some quirkiness from your visit, here are 10 more things you can do with your time in Melbourne.

1. Kryal Castle

Australia’s only medieval castle, Kryal Castle is home to brave knights, dueling warriors, dragons, mysteries, mazes, and plenty of medieval adventures. The kids will absolutely love it, and once they’ve slayed the dragon and conquered the maze, they can even have a go at archery.

Visit: Open Saturday & Sunday from 10:00am to 4:00pm, as well as school and public holidays. Tickets start at $35.

Get There: Grab the train to Ballarat Station.

2. Cat Cafe

What could be better than enjoying a latte in a homely cafe surrounded by dozens of friendly, happy, rescue cats? Melbourne’s Cat Cafe (the first one in Australia) does just that. Operating primarily as a cat rescue and a cafe second, the kitties are the priority and are spoilt rotten. You’ll get spoilt too, with a steaming hot cup of coffee and a slice of homemade cake.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm. 1-hour sessions cost $12 and must be booked in advance.

Get There: Take the tram to Melbourne Central on Elizabeth Street. The cafe is nearby in Guildford Lane.

3. Crafternoon

The perfect place to keep the kids happy, Crafternoon is a cafe where you can eat and create all under one roof. Choose from creating with playdough, painting, badge making, or a heap of other educational and fun sessions to keep the children entertained while you enjoy high tea. It’s not just for little people either — adults can also try their hand at something crafty while there.

Visit: Open daily (except Thursdays) from 8:30am to 4:00pm

Get There: Located on Sydney Road in Brunswick

4. Guided Boat Tours at the Royal Botanic Gardens

Capture the historic beauty of the gardens from a watery vantage point. Jump on board a wooden punt and enjoy a serene cruise around the islands dotted throughout this picturesque ornamental lake. Your own personal guide will talk you through the Gardens’ history, flora, and fauna. Perfect for stress-free sightseeing!

Visit: Guided boat tours run from 10:15am-5:00pm (September to May) and 11:00am-3:30pm (June to August). Tickets start at $25 per person.

5. Make Your Own Gin

At Bass & Flinders Distillery , you can make your very own gin. First you’ll take a masterclass in gin distillation, and by the end of the tour will have created not 1 but 2 unique flavors of gin. You’ll get a large bottle of it to take with you afterward, and the distillery will keep your recipe on file so you can order more when you run out (or decide to gift your creation to friends).

Visit: Book 2-hour classes in advance for $140 per person

Get There: The distillery is located on Red Hill Road in Red Hill

6. Western Water Treatment Plant

If heavy machinery and large civic operations are your thing, a tour around the Western Water Treatment Plant will show how the plant works and let you experience the scale and environmental importance of the site. Take a guided tour around the treatment rooms and processes to learn how energy is captured from methane gas and how the nearby wetlands are looked after.

Visit: Tickets start at $12 for adults, and tours must be pre-booked

Get There: The plant is located in Werribee and easily accessible by car

7. Eerie Ghost Tours

If you like all things ghost related, Eerie Tours offers ghost tours around some unique sites, including a cemetery, a sprawling old asylum, and an unused gaol. There are talks and tales along the way, and if you’re lucky you might come face-to-supernatural-face with a ghost or 2. Not for the faint-hearted!

Visit: Prices start at $27.50 per adult (less for kids)

Get There: Tours are based in Ararat, Ballarat, and the Gold Rush Cemetery, and must be pre-booked

8. Join the Circus

You no longer have to run away to join the circus; now you can do it while you’re here in Melbourne! Circus Oz offers classes in all things circus, including trapeze, hula hoops, German Wheels, acrobatics, flying, and even tumbling. They offer classes for both children and adults, and you can also book tickets to see one of their shows. Circus Oz does not use animals in their performances.

Visit: Prices vary depending on the course

Get There: Based in Johnston Street, Collingwood. Take the 86 tram to Johnston St/Smith St.

9. Neighbours Tour

For fans of the long-running show, the Neighbours Tour is a once in a lifetime opportunity. You will be taken on a guided tour of the Ramsey Street set, as well as other key locations used in the show. There’s a very strong chance you’ll meet one of the stars on your tour, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos and learn exclusive story details too.

Visit: Open Monday to Friday. Prices start at $59 per adult.

10. The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant

The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant is an authentic Colonial tramcar that has been transformed into a 5-star dining experience. The beautiful wagons cruise through the city streets as you enjoy freshly prepared cuisine surrounded by Victorian history and opulence. The restaurant will arrive back at the departure point at the end of the evening, and bookings can be in short supply.

Visit: Open daily year-round. Prices start at $90 per person, including all food and drink.

Get There: Take the tram to stop 125 Normanby Road

Melbourne offers some of the best beaches in Australia  within just a few miles of the central metro area. If you’re looking to make the most of the coast, here are the top 5 best beaches in and around the city.

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is an ideal spot for swimmers, sunbathers, and surfers alike, set against a backdrop of over 80 brightly colored beach boxes. The suburb itself is one of the most sought after parts of the city, and it’s located just to the east of the CBD. You can reach Brighton Beach easily by car or bus, and the nearest station is Brighton Beach.

With plenty of gourmet food outlets and contemporary retailers, you can spend your days on the long stretches of soft sandy beaches surrounding Brighton and Port Phillip, and then have a cool drink in the shade in one of the most popular and upmarket parts of Melbourne.

St Kilda Beach

You won’t find many waves at St. Kilda Beach, but you’ll still find plenty to enjoy. A hotspot for both tourists and locals, St Kilda Beach is a picturesque stretch of soft white sand that is always popular with photographers and film crews. Kite surfers, paddle-boarders, cyclists, and runners love the long straight palm-covered stretches, and there is more than enough beach to go around, no matter how busy it gets.

This beach is also really close to the cafes and restaurants on Acland Street that are perfect for a break from the sun. You can even make the beach your final destination after a busy day racing around the attractions at Luna Park. The best way to reach St Kilda Beach is by hopping on the 3a, 16, or 96 tram from the CBD.

Williamstown Beach

Known locally as “Willy Beach,” this small family-friendly beach is a hit with locals and tourists as well. Being in a popular residential area just a stone’s throw from the city, you can while away the day admiring the sea in front of you, or take in the stunning views of Melbourne just behind you.

This beach is also home to the historic Gem Pier, which offers spectacular unobscured views of the city skyline and looks resplendent thrust out to sea. With plenty of local cafes, shops, and other attractions, Willy Beach is great for kids of all ages. The nearest station is Williamstown Beach.

Mordialloc Beach

If you want a trip to a beach with more than just sand and water to keep you entertained, “Mordi” beach could be just what you’re looking for. With its very own Windows on the Bay restaurant, a children’s playground, and dedicated BBQ and picnic areas, Mordi Beach is a big hit for families, groups, and social gatherings. There is also a bike path that runs all the way back to the suburb of Mentone if you fancy sightseeing on 2 wheels.

Situated in the southern suburb of Kingston, Mordi beach can get very busy during weekends and holidays, so head down there during the week if you want the beach to yourselves. Mordialloc Station is closest, but it’s still about a 1.5 kilometer walk away from the main beach areas.

Elwood Beach

Elwood Beach is a swimming beach offering excellent facilities and long stretches of soft clean sand. It is close to local cafes and restaurants and only about a 20 minute drive from the city. For these reasons, Elwood Beach is very popular among families with young children, giving it a safe, family vibe all year long.

This beach makes the perfect base from which to explore the area’s other beaches, since you can walk around the bay to Brighton Beach or even St Kilda. Elwood offers a rare no boating zone, which is great for swimmers. Sadly, there are no local train or tram stations nearby, but you can easily reach Elwood Beach by car or bus.

Melbourne is renowned for its exceptional bar scene, so it’s tough to create a top 10 list. However, we’re big fans of quirky hidden bars, so here are some you should check out when in the city.

1. Jungle Boy, 96 Chapel Street, Windsor

To find this hidden cocktail bar, you first need to locate Boston Sub, a tiny American sandwich shop in Chapel Street. Head inside and make for the cooler door. Go through, and you’ll step into the tropical surroundings of one of the funkiest cocktail lounges in Melbourne. Plant yourself at the bar and start on the spritzers before getting sucked into the tiki-themed cocktails, each more inventive than the last. Jungle Boy also serves food.

Visit: Open daily from 5:00pm until 1:00am. The nearest tram stop is Windsor.

2. Eau De Vie, 1 Malthouse Lane, Melbourne

Skillfully tucked away down Malthouse Lane, you’ll need to keep yours eyes out for an unsigned service entrance and head inside. You’ll know you’re in the right place if you’re not chased out by some angry chefs, but instead welcomed by waistcoated greeters fresh out of 1920s Chicago.

Eau De Vie is a Prohibition-themed bar channeling all very best parts of vintage Americana. You can sit at the bar or share a private booth and get started on the best cocktails in the country. Behind a bookcase is another secret area, the Whiskey Room, that’s a whole new level of whisky drinking awesome.

Visit: Open Monday-Thursday 5:00pm to 1:00am, Friday & Saturday 4:00pm to 1:00am, and Sunday 4:00pm to 11:00pm. No Tommy guns please!

3. Hihou, 1 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

On Flinders Lane near the corner of Spring Street lies this amazing Japanese bar and restaurant. Keep your eyes peeled though, as the entrance is really easy to miss. Hihou offers a superb variety of worldwide fare all given a unique Japanese twist. There is also a wonderful cocktail menu on offer too.

If you choose to dine upstairs, you’ll be asked to remove your shoes as you’ll be sitting at traditional Japanese low tables. If you’re dining downstairs, usual rules apply.

Visit: Open Monday-Wednesday 5:00pm to midnight, Thursday-Saturday 5:00pm to 1:00am. Nearest station is Flinders Street.

4. Sister Bella, 22 Drewery Place, Melbourne

The ultimate in stripped-down hidden bar chic, this place is not easily spotted when passing by. Should you make the effort, though, you will be rewarded with a visit to one of the quirkiest bars in the city. Word of mouth advertising is all they’ve used here, so everyone else you see will have explored their way inside too.

The drinks menu is refreshingly basic, which fits the décor perfectly. A tattooed and cool staff will make you feel right at home as you take a seat on the recycled furniture to take in the surroundings.

Visit: Bar open Monday-Saturday 4:00pm to 1:00am, Sunday 4:00pm to 11:00pm

5. Murmur, 17 Warburton Lane, Melbourne

Melbourne’s only dedicated piano bar, Murmur is a hot spot with a drinks menu thicker than an old phone book. Serving fine drinks and cocktails from around the world as well as amazing food, this relaxing bar offers an oasis from the bustling city outside. A great place to impress that special someone in your life (or simply indulge your inner connoisseur), Murmur will forever raise your food and drink standards. It’s 1920s chic for the 21st century.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 4:30pm to 11:00pm, Saturday & Sunday 4:30pm to 1:00am

6. Loch & Key, 34 Franklin Street, Melbourne

The first thing you need to do here is find the Captain Melville Bar in Franklin Street. Once inside, look for a bookcase that gives way to a rickety staircase. This leads you to Loch & Key , a semi-secret but fabulous bar and lounge. You can remain fed and watered here until the sun comes up, all accompanied by 70s funk and electronica.

The food is experimental and delicious, but it’s the drinks you’ll come here for. Loch & Key’s bar staff will serve you anything from a cold beer to an outlandish cocktail — including everything in between.

Visit: Open Sunday-Thursday 5:00pm to 5:00am, Friday & Saturday 5:00pm to 7:00am

7. Marrakech, 25 Bank Place, Melbourne

Hidden underneath Bank Place, Marrakech is a Moroccan-themed bar that offers the latest R&B and soul music in sumptuous surroundings. Grab a comfortable booth and soak up the softly-lit décor while sipping fine cocktails and enjoying delectable cuisine.

They also have Shisha pipes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the Moroccan vibe. There are always special offers available, and you can find out about these on the Marrakech website before you go.

Visit: Open Monday-Thursday 11:00am till late, Friday 3:00pm to 3:00am, Saturday 6:00pm to 3:00am, Sunday 6:00pm till late

8. Bartronica, Basement, 335 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Bartronica is Melbourne’s first vintage arcade bar. Indulge your 80s inner child with this hidden bar that’s packed with retro arcade games. Once you’ve found the place, grab a beer or one of the many weird and wonderful cocktails and get on a classic machine like Mortal Kombat, Sonic, or Mario Kart. When you need to get some air, you can head out into the beer garden, which has been set up to feel like it’s in downtown New York .

Visit: Open Wednesday-Saturday 4:00pm to 1:00am

9. The Alchemist, 361 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

This unusual drinking spot is decked out like an alchemist’s lab: everything’s covered in gold and festooned with old flasks and lab equipment. The Alchemist has an extensive wine list and probably one of the best and most experimental cocktail menus in Australia. Mixologists here can make anything you can think of — they’re as good at turning booze into cocktails as an alchemist is at turning lead into gold. Tapas-style food fills the gaps while live jazz on Tuesdays and Thursdays soothes the ears.

Visit: Open Sunday & Wednesday 3:00pm to 11:00pm, Thursday-Saturday 3:00pm to 1:00am

10. Pizza Pizza Pizza, 16 Meyers Place, Melbourne

This is a popular and very busy pizza place that does delicious New York-style pizzas with a variety of toppings. What’s that got to do with this list? Well, if you ask a member of staff to see the “special menu,” you’ll be taken through a secret door to a hidden retro-inspired bar out back! Here you can still enjoy delicious pizza, but you can also add a few cocktails to your order to help wash it down a bit better.

Visit: Pizza Pizza Pizza is open Tuesday-Thursday 12:00pm to 11:00pm, Friday 12:00pm to 3:00am, Saturday 6:00pm to 3:00am

Breakfast is the best meal of the day in Melbourne, and with so many great eateries to choose from you’ll never go hungry! Here are our top picks.

1. The Kettle Black, 50 Albert Road, South Melbourne

One of the finest cafes in the city, The Kettle Black offers amazing dishes at great prices that will set you up for the day ahead.

Need to blow the cobwebs away from the night before? They also have wine, beer, and a range of breakfast cocktails to go with their delicious menu. This place also serves a mean cup of coffee.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends and public holidays 8:00am to 4:00pm

2. Top Paddock, 658 Church Street, Richmond

Set in a beautiful location, this trendy cafe serves up some gorgeous dishes at reasonable prices. The menu is healthy and varied, and it’s accompanied by a fine range of beers and wines (as well as all-day cocktails).

Top Paddock is like a traditional cafe and kitchen, only much better. It’s the perfect spot for a quick breakfast or a long coffee break, whether you’re meeting friends or need a quiet moment to yourself.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm. The kitchen closes at 3:00pm though, so don’t dawdle!

3. Rudimentary, 16-18 Leeds Street, Footscray

Shipping container bars are getting popular all over the world, and now you can visit one in up-and-coming Footscray. Rudimentary offers breakfasts ranging from light bites to a pork belly extravaganza, none of which will seriously dent your wallet.

Add to this fantastic coffees and other drinks, and you can easily lose a whole day in this amazing venue. Rudimentary is also a community space that aims to contribute to the evolution of a vibrant part of Melbourne, as well as break the current trend of high rise developments.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:30am to 3:30pm, weekends 8:00am to 3:30pm

4. Bowery to Williamsburg, 16 Oliver Lane, Melbourne

This American diner is styled after a New York subway station, complete with signage and bustle! The amazing menu fuses hearty American classics with unique Melbourne touches for some unbeatable dishes. From BBQ bacon cheeseburgers to pastrami sandwiches and key lime pie, you can find it all at Bowery to Williamsburg .

They also do the best American breakfast in town with pretzels, bagels, waffles, and eggs all fresh every morning. You can join the other diners in this deli-style eatery, or have your food wrapped to go.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:30am to 3:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 3:30pm. Closed on public holidays.

5. Auction Rooms, 103-107 Errol Street, North Melbourne

This 150-year-old auction house certainly looks its age from the outside. Venture in, however, and you’ll be greeted with industrial steel and concrete, as well as the buzz of contented diners.

The Auction Rooms serves food from the Middle East, Mexico, and America and does a great selection of all-day breakfast, eggs, and sides. There are also cocktails, beers, and wine, as well as Small Batch coffee (made by the original owner who started the Small Batch company).

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 5:00pm, weekends 7:30am to 5:00pm

6. The Grain Store, 517 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Offering German, French, and Mediterranean-infused cuisine, The Grain Store cooks healthy meals in a bright space with industrial looks and a homely vibe. The daily breakfast menu includes plenty of healthy fare as well as more hearty fodder.

Their weekend brunch menu is absolutely stunning and available until 3:00pm. You can choose from bacon, eggs, salmon, or even pork belly, among other mouthwateringly lazy breakfast suggestions.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm

7. The Farm Cafe, 18 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford

What started out as a trestle table and coffee machine has evolved into an excellent rustic eatery, offering hearty country foods as well as healthy lighter options. Their breakfasts are made with love and flavor, and the menu includes a variety of fresh local fare: homemade sausage rolls, granola, and a gut-busting farmers breakfast. Located on an actual farm, The Farm Cafe is the perfect spot for weekend bunches with the kids.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 9:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 9:00am to 5:00pm

8. Cafe Ora, 156 Parkington Street, Kew

Hidden away in a tired parade of shops is this gem of an owner-operated cafe. Serving fine coffees to suit all tastes, they also offer fresh, healthy food made with herbs and spices grown out back. Breakfasts come in all shapes and sizes, alongside first-class coffee and ice cream too.

Visit: Open Tuesday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm

9. Lights in the Attic, 38 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East

This suburban cafe is well worth hunting down, as it offers an Asian infusion on traditional breakfast choices. Try the salmon scrambled eggs with Benito flakes or the Nourish bowl, a superfood fusion dish that will provide all the energy you’ll need for the day. Lights In The Attic also serves fresh fruit, eggs, and steaming hot coffee.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:30am to 3:30pm, Saturday 8:00am to 3:00pm, Sunday 8:30am to 3:00pm

10. Mr Hendricks, 469 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn

This family-run cafe offers French-inspired foods created by 2 chef brothers with a wealth of culinary experience. The menu is loaded with amazing dishes that wouldn’t be out of place in a top-end international restaurant.

With all-day breakfasts, a breakfast cassoulet, crispy eggs, and even vanilla brioche toast, these boys are really raising the breakfast game in Balwyn! Oh, and in case you were wondering, Mr. Hendricks is the name of the family dog.

Visit: Open Tuesday-Friday 7:30am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm

If you thought only cities like London and Seattle had cool coffee covered, think again. Melbourne has one the most incredible coffee cultures in the world. Every neighborhood brings something new to the mix, making it irresistible to stop and watch the world go by while sipping on the black stuff in the mild Melbourne climate.

Want to know where to find the very best coffee in the city? Check out these top 5 places for coffee lovers.

1. Market Lane

Market Lane is a specialty coffee roastery, cafe, and retailer born and based in Melbourne. With 5 shops throughout the city, they roast their own beans at their Parham Market roastery and are dedicated to sourcing some of the finest coffee from around the world.

Owner Fleur Studd and chief roaster Jason Scheltus were both big names in the Melbourne coffee scene in their own right. Together, they created a coffee company that is focused on not just providing fantastic tasting coffee, but also on educating every customer about the journey of the humble bean.

2. Proud Mary

Proud Mary is a specialty coffee roaster, cafe, coffee educator, and retailer that is dedicated to producing exceptional coffee, and who takes their roasting very seriously. So much so that you can visit their “Aunty Peg’s” roastery to learn all about the beans, brew your own gear at the shop, or enjoy a one-to-one brew from your own personal barista.

Nolan Hirte, the founder of Proud Mary, is now recognized as a pioneer of the specialty coffee industry in Australia. Having come face to face with the harsh reality of coffee farming during a trip to Bali , he decided to find a way to bridge the gap between farmer and consumer, and shortly afterward Proud Mary was born. Based in Collingwood, the cafe has a vibe that is perfect for locals who enjoy living in one of the quirkiest suburbs of the city.

3. Code Black

The guys and gals at Code Black describe their establishment as “a laboratory, a workshop, and a hub for connoisseurs of the dark art and science of coffee.” We can assume from this statement that they take their coffee very seriously indeed. Located in the trendy suburb of Brunswick, Code Black has created a coffee shop that perfectly matches the interests and inspirations of the local alternative music scene.

If the coffee they brew isn’t quite strong enough for your dark soul, they’ve also launched their very own brand of hot chocolate. Cocoa Jackson consists of a beautiful Venezuelan to give you a dark chocolate kick. Quirky, cool, and unashamedly dark…Code Black is probably just named after the way they take their coffee.

4. Industry Beans

When brothers Steve and Trevor Simmons set up in a tiny garage and began roasting coffee for themselves, they always had their eyes on bigger things. Now situated in a former warehouse in the super cool suburb of Fitzroy, the boys at Industry Beans are now pouring house blends for all to enjoy.

With a strong emphasis on sourcing the very best specialty-grade green coffee from across the globe, the team at Industry Beans creatively applies scientific methodology to the coffee roasting process. They can reveal the complex and distinctive qualities of each single origin coffee, which in the end, makes for a really great cup!

5. Patricia Coffee Brewers

In-house, artisanal coffee flows aplenty at this trendy standing-room-only spot. With their own blends ground on-site, Patricia Coffee Brewers offers a simple choice of black, white, or filter coffees for all to enjoy.

A joint venture between Bowen Holden and Pip Heath, Patricia Coffee Brewers is a quality-driven coffee bar in the heart of Melbourne. Their exceptional service meets carefully crafted coffees, and everyone who steps inside their tiny storefront knows they’re in for a coffee-shaped treat.

Melbourne offers some of the greatest shopping experiences in Australia. From designer boutiques to vintages markets, you can find it all within the city center itself. You may have heard of Chadstone, the largest shopping center in Australia but here are ten others.

1. Emporium Melbourne

The Emporium is the largest Australian luxury shopping area, offering a wealth of designer clothing stores and boutiques as well as over 30 food outlets. Situated on the corner of Lonsdale and Swanston streets, the complex also features large Myer and David Jones department stores.

With 225 stores providing a fusion of fashion, culture, food, and art all located in the central CBD, the Emporium is frequented by locals, commuters, and visitors alike.

Visit: Open from 10:00am until 7:00pm (9:00pm on Thursday and Fridays), and easily accessed by public transport

2. Queen Victoria Village (QV)

Known locally as the “QV,” the Queen Victoria Village is home to both Australian and international designer stores, a wide variety of restaurants, and some of Melbourne’s finest retailers. Occupying an entire city block, the QV is famous for its unique open-air design, with 120 stores running down each of its laneways.

There is also an international food court located in the basement of the building. The retail venue plays host to a wide variety of lifestyle events and shows throughout the year.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to as late as 9:00pm on some days.

Get There: Offers over 1,500 car parking spaces, but can also be reached by any tram or bus line.

3. Melbourne Central

The Melbourne Central shopping center is a large modern complex featuring shops, offices, and access to the city loop underground railway below. Refurbished in 2005, the complex now offers a wide range of shops and food stalls that are well-suited to their central location within the CBD.

Almost as well-known as some of the shops are the architectural delights on display. Coop’s Shot Tower, The Marionette Watch, The Glass Cone, and The Vertical Cone have all been built over the years to add interest to this city center retail and commercial complex.

4. Bourke Street Mall

Bourke Street is one of the main thoroughfares in Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD). It is well-regarded as a hub of entertainment and shopping in the city, and is a popular tourist destination. In recent years the area has become pedestrianized and is only accessible on foot or by tram, allowing visitors to explore the area at their leisure.

If you are looking to enjoy the full city center experience, Bourke Street has everything you need: great shops, fine food, and plenty of the authentic Melbourne atmosphere.

Get There: Nearest stations are Flagstaff Station or Southern Cross Station. Trams 86, 95, and 96 all stop in Bourke Street itself.

5. DFO South Wharf

Centrally located in Melbourne CBD and next to the popular upmarket Docklands suburb, DFO South Wharf is a factory outlet complex offering well-known branded goods for majorly discounted prices. Similar to the outlet stores normally found on the outskirts of major towns and cities, the DFO South Wharf offers all the fun of bargain hunting right in the city center. It also hosts a variety of cafes, bistros, and restaurants so you can enjoy a whole day’s shopping under one roof.

Visit: Stores open from 10:00am until 6:00pm every day, except Friday when they offer late night shopping until 9:00pm.

Get There: Nearest train station is Southern Cross, which is about a 15-minute walk away. Or, hop on any trams traveling along Swanston Street and St Kilda Road that stop at Federation Square, or the corner of Flinders and Swanston streets.

6. Prahran Market

Known as “the food lovers market,” Prahran Market offers a wide range of high quality fruit and vegetables, certified organic produce, sustainable seafood, free-range meat and poultry, and more. Having been on the same Commercial Road site for over 125 years, the market offers a variety of stalls and shops selling every type of food you could imagine. The market also has a dedicated Market Square where there are community performances, cafes, and a children’s playground.

Visit: Located in the suburb of South Yarra. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 7:00am until 5:00pm, and 10:00am until 3:00pm on Sundays. Closed Mondays and Wednesdays.

7. Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is a major landmark in Melbourne and the largest open air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Standing at around 7 hectares, the marketplace is both historically and architecturally important (and is actually listed on the Victorian Heritage Register). Visitors can expect to find a wide variety of fresh, high-quality produce and specialty shopping including clothing, art, and interior goods.

Visit: Open from 6:00am most mornings, closing times vary depending on the day. Night market during the summer months on Wednesdays from 5:00pm until 10:00pm. Closed Mondays.

Get There: Located between Queen Street, Victoria Street, and Peel Street, the market can be reached by train using either Melbourne Central or Flagstaff Stations. Alternatively, take tram 19, 57, or 59 to stop 7, Elizabeth St (or tram 58 to stop 9, Peel St).

8. The Rose Street Market

Rose Street Market is an artists’ market where everything on sale is handmade. Widely known as a platform for emerging artists, it is a great place to find one-off pieces of art, unusual fashion, unique jewelry, and work from local photographers.

Occupying an abandoned yard in Fitzroy, Rose Street Market is the creative hub of the CBD and the city’s most important home for independent art and design.

Visit: Market held every Saturday from 11:00am until 5:00pm.

Get There: Best reached by tram using the 96 from Bourke St (get off at stop 16) or 11 from Collins St. (get off at stop 17).

9. Fitzroy Market

The Fitzroy Market  is a community project that has been running since 2010. Selling a variety of secondhand clothing and goods, handmade items, and homemade food, the market is put on by the community and benefits partner organizations in education. There is always a welcoming atmosphere, lots of live music and entertainment, and a real neighborly spirit, making the market a lovely place to be on a sunny Saturday in Melbourne.

Visit: Market held on the 3rd Saturday of every month from 10:00am until 3:00pm at the Fitzroy Primary School.

Get There: Take trams 86 (travel to Smith St), 96 (travel down Nicholson St), and 112 (travel down Brunswick St). Or, buses 200, 201, 203, 205, and 207 all stop at nearby Johnston Street.

10. Camberwell Market

Camberwell Sunday Market is Melbourne’s premier vintage market, and it offers a wide range of secondhand goods and crafts. It sells anything retro and is the perfect place to find antiques, collectables, vintage clothing, handmade crafts, vinyl, musical instruments, knick knacks, and much more.

Visit: Market held every Sunday morning (except the Sunday before Christmas Day) from 7:30am until 12:30pm.

Get There: Take the train to Camberwell Railway Station, or bus routes 612 or 285 to Camberwell Junction.

Visiting foreign lands can be an expensive business, especially if you’re planning to spend any time in a major city. While Melbourne may not be the most expensive destination in the world, it certainly isn’t the cheapest either. Try these top hacks to help your vacation budget stretch a little further.

1. Explore Your New Surroundings

Getting your bearings needn’t be boring. Melbourne is a wonderful city to just roam around and explore for free. Take in the city center and browse the streets as you get a feel for that authentic Melbourne atmosphere. When you run out of steam, there are plenty of parks and green spaces to relax in.

2. Go to the Museums

While away the hours taking in the free galleries and museums dotted thought the city. The National Gallery Of Victoria has a vast collection of art from all around the world, and The Australian Centre for The Moving Image offers incredible interactive exhibits.

3. Take a Trip to the Beach

Melbourne may be a vibrant and bustling city, but you’re never more than a few miles away from the nearest beach. Australia has some of the finest beaches in the world, and the coast surrounding Melbourne is certainly no exception. Enjoy free sunbathing, surfing, or swimming at any of the beaches surrounding the city.

4. Soak up the Arts Scene

Melbourne is a very creative city full of musicians, magicians, buskers, breakdancers, and much more. You can catch any number of free outdoor performances all across the CBD and into the suburbs. Bourke Street, Southbank, and Federation Square are virtually guaranteed to have something going on nearly every day of the week.

5. Visit the Markets

Melbourne is full of amazing markets, and you’ll be able to find one that offers everything you need on pretty much any day of the week. From the vast and historical Queen Victoria Market to the foodies’ favorites at Prahran Market and everything in between, you will never be short of a bargain or 2.

6. Shop the Outlets

DFO South Wharf is a shopping complex dedicated to designer bargains. With 3 levels of shops and hundreds of outlets to choose from (as well as cafes and eateries), a visit to the DFO is a great day out.

7. Eat Away From the Riverside

Those waterside views will definitely add extra bucks to your brunch. If you want to enjoy fine food for less money, eat away from the docklands, Bourke Street, and main streets when you can.

8. Shop Around for Somewhere to Stay

Like many big cities, staying in the main tourist districts can be expensive. In Melbourne, even the hostels can be on the pricey side, so check out backpacker groups on social media for the best deals, or see if you can find an apartment share for your time in the city.

9. Go to a Gig

The north side of the city is famous for its live music venues and bohemian atmosphere. Dance the night away with free or cheap tickets to any of the area’s many music bars including the Tote , the Evelyn , Bar Open , or the Night Cat .

10. Eat the Oysters

If you want to live the high life without paying a high price, try eating oysters with a glass of Prosecco while overlooking the Yarra at Arbory Bar and Eatery , Melbourne’s longest and most affordable bar.

11. Drink Coffee

Melbourne has an uber cool cafe culture, and you can quickly become a complete coffee expert by enjoying free coffee tasting sessions at many of the first-class coffee shops and roasters throughout the city.

12. See the City From the Water

If you want to get a different perspective of the city, hop on a ferry from Southgate to Williamstown and explore the suburb’s historic waterfront, as well as the famous Castlemaine warship for just $18.

13. Make Use of the Visitor Shuttle

The visitor shuttle stops at 13 points around the city and offers an audio commentary for your journey. Learn about the history of Melbourne at your leisure, and jump on and off as you please.

14. Workout for Free

Princes Park is home to the Carlton football club and is a stunning place to go for a run, bike ride, or even a workout in the outdoor gyms during your stay in Melbourne.

15. Work the Transport System

Travel is not hugely expensive in Melbourne, but you can save money by taking advantage of the free trams, free off-peak travel, and the easy walking distance between many of the tourist areas.

Want to impress your hosts when you finally touch down in Melbourne? Wow them with your superior knowledge using these fun facts.

1. Traffic Management

Melbourne is home to the first ever traffic lights installed in Australia. They were first tested in mid-1928 at the intersection of Swanston and Flinders streets to address the growing problems of simultaneous vehicle control and increased pedestrian traffic.

2. Chocolate History

Chocolate lovers have a lot to thank Melbourne for. Chocolate makers MacRobertson’s Steam Confectionery Works, located in the suburb of Fitzroy, were the original inventors of the Cherry Ripe in 1924, the Crunchie in 1929, and the Freddo Frog in 1930. They continued to produce these for many years until the company was sold to Cadbury in 1967.

3. Name Change

Melbourne was originally named Batmania after one of the city’s founding fathers, John Batman. Upon discovering the first settlements of central Melbourne, he declared the location as being a “nice place for a village.” The name never stuck, however, and the land would later be christened Melbourne, after Lord Melbourne, then the Prime Minister of Britain.

4. Heating Up

Melbourne can get pretty hot. As you would expect anywhere on the Australian continent, the sun is almost always shining on this city. Sometimes, though, it gets a little too hot to handle: the maximum temperature ever recorded in Melbourne was 115.5 degrees Fahrenheit (46.4 degrees Celsius) in 2009!

5. Big Window

The world’s largest stained-glass ceiling is located in Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria. It was designed by Australian artist Leonard French, and his geometric masterpiece is known as the Persian Rug of Light. It measures a whopping 60.9 x 15.24 meters and features 224 tiles in a kaleidoscope of colors.

6. Feeling Foxy

According to the RSPCA, Melbourne is officially the fox capital of the world. There are apparently anywhere between 6 and 23 foxes per square kilometer in the urban area of the city. Despite these numbers, it’s still quite rare to see one, and the urban fox is very much revered.

7. Bath Time

Melbourne used to be very well known for its public bathing. Residents would happily jump in the Yarra, the sea, and the City Baths to keep cool on hot sunny days. Such was its popularity that there are still more than 1,800 bathing boxes scattered around the city’s beaches.

8. Fancy a Beer

The now world-famous Australian beer Fosters was first brewed in Melbourne in 1888. Even thought it was originally brewed by American brothers William and Ralph Foster right here in the city, it went on to become synonymous with the “Aussie” love for a nice cold tinnie.

9. One for Sport Lovers

As a city, Melbourne is utterly obsessed with sports and is the only city in the world to have 5 international standard sporting facilities on the fringe of its central business district: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Docklands Stadium, Rod Laver Arena, Hisense Arena, and Olympic Park in Melbourne Park.

10. No Down Time

Keeping with the sports theme, one of Australia’s most famous games, Australian Rules Football was invented in Melbourne in 1858 by Tom Wills and his friends as a way to keep cricketers fit during the off-season.

You can’t come all the way to Melbourne and not explore at least a little bit more of Victoria. Even if you don’t stay long, try and take at least one of these awesome day trips away from the city during your visit.

1. Great Ocean Road, Victoria

As one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, a trip along the Great Ocean Road is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Stretching from the towns of Torquay to Nelson, the 249-mile roadway winds alongside the wild and windswept Southern Ocean coast of Victoria.

The road will take you through Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, the Great Otway National Park, and the Shipwreck Coast as you explore local towns and villages, stopping at iconic locations along the way.

The Great Ocean Road is approximately 2 hours south from Melbourne CBD, and you can spend days traveling its entire length at your leisure.

2. Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is packed with award-winning vineyards, tasting rooms, and wineries. Many visitors to the region come to learn about the fermentation process and join in with an organized wine tour. There are many to choose from throughout the region, from a simple half-day tour to a full week away in a winery.

Many of the vineyards have been transformed into exclusive estates, offering spas, restaurants, and even rooms for visitors to stay with them overnight. Prices will vary depending on the tour and location you choose, but half-day private tours start at around $50 per person, while overnight stays will obviously be much more. Find out about tours in the region at Yarra Valley Wine .

3. Mornington Peninsula

Just an hour outside Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula offers miles of stunning coastlines and pretty seaside towns, as well as local wineries and impressive restaurants.

Go cycling, horseback riding, golfing, surfing, or visit a winery or a national park…or just relax on the beach. The Mornington Peninsula has something for everyone. You can drive there from Melbourne using the M1 and the Western Port Highway. If you want to take the train, you can connect from Frankston through Hastings to Stony Point on Westernport Bay. Or if you would rather go by bus, they travel from Melbourne to all areas, and local bus routes operate around each Mornington Peninsula village.

4. Phillip Island

Phillip Island is a very popular day trip destination from Melbourne. You can watch the Penguin Parade from Summerland beach, or spot the fur seals gathering off the coast from The Nobbies Centre . If you’d rather, you could simply stop and spend some time with the koalas at the Conservation Centre . The island is also well known for motorcycle and car racing events held at the Phillip Island Circuit if man-made entertainment is more your thing.

Around a 90-minute drive away from Melbourne, you can reach the island by car using the M1, the M420, and the A420. Private coach trips from the city are also available, or you may be able to access the island using the V-Line train service . Tickets for the attractions vary in price depending on what you wish to see. General viewing tickets for the Penguin Parade are $25 per adult, whereas a guided ranger tour of the parks could be as much as $90 per adult. Find prices, times, and park information at the Phillip Island website .

5. Dandenong Ranges

The Dandenong Ranges make for a great day out away from hustle and bustle of the city. Soaring forests, fern glades, and some of the world’s tallest flowering trees can all be found here. There are also pretty villages and rustic farms, and you can jump aboard the historic Puffing Billy Steam Train to see them all. A trip on the steam train will cost from $59 per adult and $29.50 per child.

The Dandenong Ranges are about an hour away from Melbourne by car using the M1 freeway, Ferntree Gully Road, and the Burwood Highway. If you’d rather use public transport, you can also get there using the  V-Line train service  from Melbourne. There are many options for day tours and accommodations for longer stays.

Melbourne has relatively low crime figures for a city of its size, meaning that you should be able to relax and enjoy your time there. That said, all travel comes with risks, and you should always be aware of your surroundings and take the appropriate precautions.

Emergency Contacts in Melbourne

• If you are the victim of a crime, have been in an accident, or need urgent assistance in relation to a fire, call 000 and ask to speak to the police, ambulance, or fire department.
• If you need to contact the police in relation to a non-urgent matter, call 131 444.
• If you need advice or assistance about a Maritime and Aviation Rescue , call 9674 3000.
• If you need travel information, updates about disrupted or canceled services can be found at Public Transport Victoria .

Keep Safe in the City

• In a crowded area, stay aware of what is going on around you and keep together in groups. If there is a chance you could become separated, arrange a meeting point prior to travel.
• Pickpockets and thieves operate all over the world. To ensure that you are not a target, keep your mobile phones, wallets , and purses safely tucked away, and never leave them in plain sight.
• If you are eating out, keep your handbags or briefcases out of sight under your chair in bars and restaurants, or use a table clip if the venue provides one.
• Never accept drinks from strangers and always keep yours with you in crowded bars.

Visiting Public Places

• Never leave your bags unattended.
• Always carry your wallet or purse close to you.
• Carry backpacks forward-facing in crowded areas.
• Keep mobile phones and other devices out of sight when not in use, and never leave them in your back pocket or coat pocket.
• Before you travel, make a note of your electronic serial numbers (ESNs).
• If your valuables are lost or stolen, dial 131 444 for the nearest police station. You will need to make a full report as soon as possible.
• Do not carry large amounts of cash on you, and if you are using an ATM, be sure nobody is looking over your shoulder as you enter your PIN.

At Your Hotel

• Always keep your passports and other valuables in a locked room safe if available.
• Keep a note of your hotel’s phone number and address with you at all times. If you get lost, you can use this to find your way back.

The National Security Hotline is the single point of contact for the public to report possible signs of terrorism. It also provides information to callers on a wide range of national security matters. Visit http://www.nationalsecurity.gov.au or call the National Security Hotline at 1-800-123-400.

Weather Conditions

Melbourne has a hot climate and strong UV rays all year round, which may be warmer than some visitors are used to. To ensure you’re not at risk from the sun, always take the following precautions:

• Slip-on sun-protective clothing.
• Slop on SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen at least 20 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours outdoors.
• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, neck, and ears.
• Seek shade.
• Slide on sunglasses.

At the Beach

Only swim on lifeguard-patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags. Remember to always apply proper protection against the sun, even on cloudy days.

Bites and Stings

If you are concerned about a bite or sting, visit the Symptom Checker at healthdirect.gov.au . If you or anyone in your party is suffering from chest pain, loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, turning blue, or is badly bleeding, call 000 immediately.

Forest Fires

Bush fires are a real concern in Victoria. Before you travel, make sure you know how to safely deal with fire in a bush environment and what to do if a fire begins to spread. You can find all the information you need on the Forest Fire Management Victoria website.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is melbourne best known for.

Melbourne is regularly voted as one of the most livable cities in the world. It is also known for its street art and coffee culture.

How do you travel around Melbourne?

Melbourne has many transport options such as trains, buses and taxis but the trams are very popular. Trams are a unique way to explore the city and have a good network in the city center and nearby suburbs.

Where should I go for a day trip in Melbourne?

There are plenty of options for day trips from Melbourne including:

• Great Ocean Road
• Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade
• The Mornington Peninsula
• Grampians National Park
• Wilson’s Promontory National Park

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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15 Melbourne Travel Tips Every Visitor Should Know in 2024

Looking for some handy Melbourne travel tips to make sure you have a smooth stay?

First time visiting Melbourne? Welcome! I bet you have a lot of questions. When’s the best time to visit ? What should you do here? Where should you stay ? How can you save some money ?

As a Melbourne local, I’ve spent some time putting myself into “traveller mode” to think about some of the things I’d want to know if I was visiting Melbourne, particularly for the first time.

So, here are a few travel tips and tricks to help you plan the perfect Melbourne trip.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

1. Consider the seasons

While Melbourne is a great city to visit year-round, if you’re flexible with your travel plans it’s definitely worth spending some time taking a look at the pros and cons of each season.

I outline these in my post about the best time to visit Melbourne , but here’s a quick and dirty:

• Summer in Melbourne is so much fun – there are plenty of events on and the warmer weather is making everyone happy! Daylight savings is in effect, so you can squeeze a whole lot more into longer days. The downsides: crowds (so book hotels well in advance ) and stinking-hot weather.
• In autumn , the leaves in Melbourne start to change, making for some beautiful leaf-peeping around the city. The weather is (usually) fairly mild around March and April, but May cools right down and is the month with the highest rainfall. (If it does rain on your visit to Melbourne, check out a few ideas for indoor activities in Melbourne .)
• Winters in Melbourne can be freezing – but we don’t get snow in the inner city. Even though it’s cold, there are still plenty of fun events on the schedule. And, of course, you can always slip into a cosy bar with a fireplace.
• Finally, spring in Melbourne is gorgeous. Everyone is emerging from the winter hibernation – including all the lovely flowers. 

If budget is driving your trip to Melbourne or you’re particularly averse to crowds, then it may be worth considering the high and low seasons:

• High/peak season: The summer months of December to February are the peak travel periods for Melbourne. School holidays begin in mid- to late-December and last until the end of January.
• Shoulder season: March to May and September to November are usually the shoulder seasons, so you can likely nab some good accommodation deals.
• Low season: June to August bring lower prices and fewer crowds – a benefit offsetting the cooler weather.

2. Plan your visit around a festival

Melbourne is the events capital of Australia. With something on every month (every day!), time your trip to the city around one of our amazing festivals or events.

We’ve got the Australian Open and Midsumma in January, Laneway Festival in February, the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival in March, the comedy festival in April, RISING winter festival in June, Melbourne Fashion Week and Fringe Festival in October, Melbourne Queer Film Festival in November, and all the Christmasy fun in December.

While it’s great to time your trip with one of these events, it’s also good to be aware that they’re on – because you might actually want to avoid them! When the Aus Open and Grand Prix are on, you can guarantee that hotels are booked out or prices have totally skyrocketed.

3. Plan ahead  

Outside of the peak travel season (December to February), you can usually rely on being able to book events and attraction tickets a few days beforehand.

But no matter what time of the year, it pays to seriously think through your Melbourne itinerary and book your must-do activities, whether that’s seeing a show or dining at a particular restaurant, to avoid disappointment. Melbourne is a popular city for tourists, and locals love getting out and about.

Need itinerary ideas to help you plan your trip? I’ve got guides to:

• Weekend in Melbourne
• 3 days in Melbourne
• 5 days in Melbourne

4. Choose where you stay wisely

If you’ve only got a short time in Melbourne, then pick your neighbourhood carefully. 

If you want hang out in Fitzroy and Collingwood, then it doesn’t make sense to book accommodation in St Kilda – you’ll end up spending most of your time getting from one place to another on public transport or in an Uber.

Think about the things you absolutely must do on your trip to Melbourne: do you want to be by the beach? Do you want to stay up all night drinking in cool bars? Do you need somewhere quieter so your kids sleep at night?

Each of the Melbourne neighbourhoods I recommend visitors stay in have their various pros and cons, so it’s definitely worth having a think through before you book. I think the Melbourne CBD is a great area to base yourself, and you can check out my guide to the best hotels in Melbourne CBD .

5. Know your airports

If you’re flying in to Melbourne, then you need to know that there are two airports that service the city.

Most flights come into Melbourne International Airport (also known as Tullamarine), which is the closest airport to the city, about a 30-minute drive into the CBD.

The second airport is Avalon, which is further from the city, near Geelong. It’ll take you about an hour to get to the city from here. The airport is currently only servicing a few domestic routes.

Whatever you do, make sure you book a flight to/from the right airport! You don’t want to think you’re flying into Melbourne but actually end up at Avalon. To make your booking process easier, look for the airport codes: Melbourne International Airport is MEL and Avalon Airport is AVV.

6. Get a myki card

Melbourne’s a super walkable city, but we also have an extensive public transport network. If you’ve only got a short amount of time in Melbourne, a car won’t be necessary – and will probably be more trouble than it’s worth.

Despite Melburnians’ regular complaints about our public transport system, it’s actually quite decent. As a visitor to Melbourne, it’ll get you to most places you need to go fairly directly.

We’ve got a range of trams, trains and buses to get you from A to B. You’ll need to purchase a myki , which is a pain for short-term visitors because it does cost a one-off fee of $6. The maximum you’ll pay on public transport is $10 a day. You can calculate fares online .

If you’re sticking to the inner city, take advantage of the Free Tram Zone .

Read more in my full guide to Melbourne transport .

7. Don’t just stick to the CBD on your visit

Melbourne’s central business district (CBD) is where you’ll find many of the city’s main attractions. But you’re doing yourself a disservice if you don’t explore outside of this area.

Neighbourhoods like Fitzroy , Collingwood, Carlton, St Kilda, Prahran and South Yarra – and even further out like Brunswick and Northcote – are where you’ll experience “local” Melbourne life. Outside of the city is where the majority of Melburnians live and play, so there are plenty of cool cafés and restaurants to discover, bars to drink in, live music venues to enjoy and shops to spend money at.

Check out my guide to the best Melbourne neighbourhoods to find something that suits your style.

8. Pack appropriately

There’s an adage that all Melburnians live by: this city has four seasons in one day. 

It’s not uncommon to wake up to a cloudy day with a chill in the air, before it hits 35°C by midday, ending with a thunderstorm and wild winds at night.

This means you need to pack appropriately. Always carry an umbrella and a light, packable rain jacket. Wearing layers is a great idea!

9. Come hungry

Melbourne is a foodie’s paradise. In this city you can eat your way around the world, from Afghani food to Italian dishes to Yemeni cuisine. There’s something for every budget, as well. I highly recommend planning your itinerary around food! I’ve got a guide to 75+ of my favourite restaurants in Melbourne .

Many restaurants have had to introduce securing reservations with a credit card because people were booking and then not turning up – resulting in significant lost income to already struggling businesses. Even if you don’t need to leave a credit card with your reservation, if you change your mind, give the restaurant 24-48 hours’ notice so that they can open up your reservation to someone else. Hospitality in Melbourne has been hit hard, so show them some love and respect!

9. Pay at the counter

Speaking of food, if you’re visiting Melbourne from overseas, you may be confused about how to pay at the end of a meal. In cafés and more casual restaurants, the staff will usually leave the bill on your table once you’ve finished eating but you need to pay it at the counter.

In more upscale restaurants, they’ll bring the bill and an EFTPOS machine to you.

I wanted to include this tip here because I have lived in multiple countries and I had completely forgotten this was how things happened in Australia when we moved home! It took me a while to get used to, and even now I still ask where to pay.

10. Expect to pay more on public holidays

If you’re eating out on a public holiday, then expect to pay a 10% or even 15% surcharge.

This frustrates me to no end, but it’s there to cover the higher wages restaurants need to pay their staff on public holidays.

Check with restaurants before booking because some even add a weekend surcharge!

11. Dine early to save money

If you’re willing to eat dinner early, then the new First Table app can serve you up some huge discounts.

Book the first table of the evening at a participating restaurant and you can get a whopping 50% off your meal.

Using First Table is straightforward. Visit the First Table app or website to find a list of participating restaurants in Melbourne offering the discount for their first tables of the day or night. A small booking fee of $10 secures this early bird offer, unlocking half-price meals.

11. Take a tour for local insights

I used to avoid tours and preferred to explore on my own – that’s how I’d discover those local secrets and hidden gems, right?

Wrong. Having a local guide when you visit a new city can open up your eyes to history, culture and hidden secrets that you’ll never discover on your own. 

In Melbourne you can join some amazing tours that celebrate our city’s Indigenous culture, food, street art and history. I’ve got a guide to the best Melbourne tours (including some free ones), as well as excellent walking tours in Melbourne and the best Melbourne food tours .

12. Save some money

Melbourne is expensive, there’s no doubt about that! But there are ways to save money here.

• Book accommodation in advance. I like using Booking.com .
• Do some or all of the many free things to do in Melbourne , or check out these tips for saving money in Melbourne .
• If you’re hankering to see a show, see if you can save some money through TodayTix , Halftix or TIXAT12 .
• If you’re travelling as a family, one of the best Melbourne tips to save money is to buy an iVenture Card or Melbourne City Card . I have a post that compares all the Melbourne attractions passes , but I think the Melbourne and Beyond Pass is the best option, as you have 90 days from purchase to use the pass (you can read my full Klook Melbourne and Beyond Pass review for all the details).

13. Learn the road rules

If you’re only in Melbourne for a short time, you really don’t need to rent a car .

The only time you’d need to rent a car is if you’re planning to take a day trip from Melbourne and want to drive yourself (rather than take a day tour).

If you do decide to drive in Melbourne, there are a few unique rules you’ll need to know about.

Sharing roads with trams

You’ll be sharing the road with trams. Trams can’t swerve or get out of your way. They’re also a lot heavier than your rental car, so don’t mess with them.

If you’re behind a tram, only overtake them when they’re moving. You’ll know passengers are alighting from a tram when the doors open (with big “STOP” signs on them) and the tram lights are flashing. NEVER drive past a tram when the doors are open because you could hit someone.

In the CBD, we have a unique/weird/scary thing called a hook turn when you want to turn right into some streets.

Instead of sitting in the right lane and waiting until it’s clear for you to turn, you sit in the left lane and then turn right as the lights turn orange (and if no cars are oncoming).

These hook turns can be very complicated if you’ve never done one. I still plan my trips in the city to avoid them!!

14. Leave your luggage

Have to check out of your hotel but your flight’s not until later in the day? No problem – leave your luggage and head out to continue your city exploration.

There are several luggage storage options around Melbourne . My top pick is Bounce , because it has the most luggage storage locations around the city. Bag storage charges start from $8 per bag per 24-hour period.

Other handy services are Mind My Bag and Stasher , and there are also luggage storage lockers at Southern Cross Station or a Travellers Aid at Flinders St Station.

15. Know your escalator etiquette

Okay, this is just my personal gripe, but if you’re visiting Melbourne you need to know that you stand on the left side of the escalator if you just want to take a ride to the top/bottom. If you’re in a hurry, then use the right side to walk up or down. Don’t stand still on the right hand side – you’ll be holding up a bunch of grumpy Melburnians.

And if you want a thrill ride… take the escalator at Parliament Station.

Found this article useful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

What other Melbourne travel tips do you have for visitors?

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these other Melbourne travel blogs:

• The absolute best things to do in Melbourne
• Where to stay in Melbourne
• How to spend a weekend in Melbourne
• What to do with 3 days in Melbourne
• The ultimate 5 days in Melbourne itinerary

Best Melbourne resources

• Check out my Melbourne travel guide for everything you need to know about planning a trip to Melbourne
• Look for flights to Melbourne on Skyscanner .
• Book accommodation on Booking.com or Expedia for your Melbourne trip. The Ovolo Laneways Hotel is a good choice in the CBD.
• You won’t really need a car in Melbourne, but if you do want to get out of the city, then rent a car through DiscoverCars .
• Pick up a copy of the Lonely Planet Pocket Melbourne to help plan your trip.

MELBOURNE TRAVEL GUIDE: PIN IT FOR LATER

Save these Melbourne travel tips to Pinterest so you can plan your trip to Melbourne later.

About THE AUTHOR

I’m Rebecca, a Melbourne local excited to show you the best of Melbourne. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. After living abroad for 8 years, I’m back home in Melbourne, rediscovering this city that I love and have missed. My aim is to help you find the best things to do in Melbourne.

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Pros and Cons of Moving to Moscow

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Rich in history and culture, Moscow is an exciting destination for expats. Nevertheless, they may experience frustrations arising from bureaucracy, a difficult language adjustment and extreme weather conditions. Nonetheless, the city offers an attractive lifestyle with its active social life and vibrant arts and culture scene. 

Accommodation in Moscow

Densely populated Moscow offers a variety of options for accommodation, though lots of competition and high prices make finding the perfect home a bit tricky.

+ PRO: Range of options

There are many different types of accommodation available in Moscow. Expats are just as likely to find themselves in a pre-revolutionary apartment with high ceilings, thick walls and interesting architecture as in a modern apartment block with good facilities and high-tech features. There are also several international compounds with other expats. These gated communities usually offer their own sports facilities and social activities. 

- CON: High demand and expensive 

With so many people living in Moscow, housing is in great demand and can therefore be expensive. Apartments are also often small, and expats may be disappointed with what their money can buy. Realistically, size, quality and location are the most important factors influencing the cost of accommodation in Moscow. Expats with a limited budget may need to compromise on one or more of these factors to find a home that best suits them.

Lifestyle in Moscow

Moscow is a huge city, offering a wide range of activities and events . The expat community is close-knit, giving new arrivals the opportunity to make friends.

+ PRO: Great social scene 

There is so much to do in Moscow, with activities catering for every interest. Most groups and organisations are well-organised and welcoming to newcomers. The expat community is busy throughout the year with balls and charity events.

Nightlife within the city is excellent, with a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants to choose from. The quality of museums, art galleries, theatres and concerts is also outstanding.

- CON: Eating out can be expensive

Restaurants in Moscow can be extremely expensive. Expats may find their social life is limited if living on a budget. Luckily, knowing the right places will help make going out more affordable.

Education and schools in Moscow

+ pro: international schools are available .

There are several international schools in Moscow offering excellent quality education and facilities. There are also good private Russian schools, although only a small percentage of expat children attend these.

- CON: Demand is high and space is limited

The demand for schools outweighs the supply. Therefore, schools in Moscow can be expensive with long waiting lists. Schools are usually located outside of central Moscow. So, unless expats live close to the school, children will have to travel some distance by school bus or car each day.

Climate in Moscow

+ pro: many winter and summer outdoor activities.

The climate in Moscow is quite extreme. Winter weather can be beautiful in Moscow, with blue skies and sunshine on the white snow. Cross-country skiing is popular with expats and ice-skating is possible all over the city as many playgrounds are made into ice-rinks. Summer is a great time to explore Moscow, as the city is generally quieter. There are lakeside and river beaches in Moscow, where expats and locals alike can take advantage of the good weather.

- CON: Long winters 

The extreme winter weather can make living in Moscow challenging for most of the year. Expats should make sure to have enough thick and warm winter clothing to get them through. 

Safety in Moscow

- con: bribery and corruption.

Bribery and corruption are still issues in Moscow, and expats are sometimes affected by this. It's also not uncommon to find incidents of racism.

Healthcare in Moscow

+ pro: medical facilities are of a high standard .

There are many private medical centres in Moscow with well-trained doctors who can, in most cases, speak English. Dental treatment is also of a high standard in the city.

- CON: Healthcare is expensive

Getting medical treatment can sometimes be expensive, although most expats have insurance to cover these costs. Dental treatment is also pricey, although competitive with other European prices. 

Public transport in Moscow

+ pro: comprehensive public transport system.

Moscow has an impressive public transport system . The metro is not only clean, safe, efficient and fast; it is also a tourist attraction. Daily tours explore the metro system, with guides showing tourists through some of the city's most beautiful stations. These stations often resemble palaces, with sculptures, mosaics and even chandeliers. There is also an extensive bus, trolleybus and tram route throughout Moscow. Many of Moscow’s buses now even have Wi-Fi access.

- CON: Crowded public transport during rush hour 

Rush hour on the metro can be unpleasantly crowded. Many of the metro stations and trains also haven’t changed all their signs to show both the Cyrillic alphabet and the Latin alphabet. Being able to read place names in Russian is therefore helpful to avoid getting lost in the rush hour chaos.

- CON: Heavy traffic

Bad traffic can put people off travelling in and around Moscow. Luckily, the metro system is good and expats living near transport stops shouldn't have any issues getting around. The traffic could be a problem for those who choose to drive in Moscow, however. 

Further reading

►For a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for basic goods and services in Moscow, see  Cost of Living in Russia .

Expat Interviews " What I like the most about Moscow is the city itself. It is always clean, vibrant, and full of entertainment and friendly pedestrians. It means that you can walk as far as you want to and feel safe about doing so." Read about Eva's experience living in Moscow as an expat .  "What I like about Moscow is that it’s very dynamic and animated; there is always something to do at any time of the day and of the night!"  Read about Laurent's experience and his likes and dislikes of living in Moscow.

Are you an expat living in Moscow?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Moscow. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.

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• A Brief Guide to All the Key Hotels in Washington D.C.

Seven hotels earned at least one MICHELIN Key in Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. MICHELIN Keys Travel Hotels

On April 24, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide announced its very first Key hotels in the United States — a brand new distinction recognizing the most outstanding hotels in the country. We're thrilled to report that, in Washington D.C., seven hotels earned at least One Key. And while hotels in the capital have historically skewed towards the traditional, our seven Key hotels run the gamut of styles. Among the newest and hippest, the Eaton DC sports a boho aesthetic and a firm commitment to a progressive ethos — this hotel, set downtown on K Street, is a launchpad for progress, where rotating art exhibits fill the first floor and activists and political groups make use of its radio station, screening room, and co-working space. Representing the more traditional luxury hotels, the Hay Adams has been an institution — set in a monumental Italian Renaissance building just across from the White House — since 1928. Here, the feeling is of old-world elegance. Between the Eaton and the Hay Adams, we find the rest of our Key hotels somewhere in the stylistic middle. For waterfront views try the Pendry , with its modernist, Parisian-influenced aesthetic set on the Potomac in the city’s Southwest Waterfront. Or head to Georgetown and the Rosewood , where vistas from the rooftop bar overlook the C&O Canal. Other highlights: the  Dupont Circle Hotel , one of the only hotels privileged enough to set up in Dupont Circle, with its sophisticated restaurant and a swanky cocktail bar. The Jefferson , another option downtown, has the Quill, an upscale cocktail bar and lounge in its historic building dating back to 1923. At the Riggs , in the city’s Penn Quarter, there’s both an enchanting cafe and a subterranean bar. You can hardly go wrong. Below, explore the map of every Key hotel in Washington D.C. And scroll down to learn more each accommodation.

The Seven MICHELIN Key Hotels in DC:

The Jefferson - 2 Keys

Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf - 1 Key

Eaton DC - 1 Key

Riggs Washington DC - 1 Key

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Rosewood Washington, D.C. - 2 Keys

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A Foodie’s Guide to Moscow: 10 Must-Try Restaurants and Local Cuisine

Introduction:

Moscow, the bustling capital city of Russia, is not only famous for its rich history and stunning architecture but also for its vibrant food scene. From traditional Russian dishes to international cuisines, Moscow offers a plethora of culinary delights that are sure to satisfy any foodie’s cravings. In this guide, we will take you on a gastronomic journey through the city, highlighting 10 must-try restaurants and local cuisine.

1. Café Pushkin:

Address: Tverskoy Blvd, 26A, Moscow, 125009 Website: cafe-pushkin.ru Café Pushkin is an iconic Moscow institution that offers a unique dining experience. Housed in a grand 19th-century mansion, the restaurant takes you back in time with its elegant decor and classic Russian cuisine. Indulge in dishes like beef stroganoff, borscht, and blinis while immersing yourself in the old-world charm of the venue. Don’t forget to visit the pastry counter on the ground floor, where you can find an array of delectable Russian sweets and pastries.

2. White Rabbit:

Address: Smolenskaya Square, 3, Moscow, 121099 Website: whiterabbitmoscow.ru Perched on the 16th floor of a skyscraper, White Rabbit offers not only breathtaking panoramic views of Moscow but also a culinary experience like no other. This restaurant combines Russian traditions with innovative techniques to create a menu that is both visually stunning and delicious. The dishes are beautifully presented and often feature seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Make sure to try their famous “Tree Cake” dessert, a multi-layered masterpiece that is as tasty as it is Instagrammable.

3. Mari Vanna:

Address: Spiridon’yevskiy per., 10A, Moscow, 123001 Website: marivanna.ru Mari Vanna is a cozy and charming restaurant that transports you to a traditional Russian home. The interior is adorned with vintage items, floral wallpapers, and old photographs, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. The menu features classic Russian dishes with a homestyle touch. Indulge in hearty comfort foods like pelmeni (dumplings), borscht, and Olivier salad. Don’t miss the chance to try their infused vodkas, which come in a variety of flavors and add an extra dimension to your dining experience.

Address: ul. Malaya Dmitrovka, 7/5, Moscow, 125009 Website: durdin.ru A true hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Moscow, Durdin is a small Georgian restaurant that will transport you straight to the Caucasus region. The cozy interior features traditional Georgian decorations, creating an inviting ambiance. The menu is filled with Georgian delights such as khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (dumplings), and shashlik (grilled meat). Pair your meal with a glass of Georgian wine, renowned for its high quality and unique flavors.

Address: Tverskaya St, 27, Moscow, 125009 Website: shinok.ru If you want to experience authentic Ukrainian cuisine without leaving Moscow, Shinok is the place to go. This rustic restaurant recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Ukrainian village, with its wooden interiors and folk decorations. The menu showcases a variety of Ukrainian classics, including varenyky (dumplings), borscht, and salo (cured pork fat). The portions are generous, and the flavors are rich and comforting. Shinok also offers live music performances, adding to the overall festive ambiance.

6. Korchma Taras Bulba:

Address: Mokhovaya St, 28, Moscow, 125009 Website: tarasbulba.ru Korchma Taras Bulba is a Ukrainian restaurant chain with several branches in Moscow, but it is the one on Mokhovaya Street that stands out. The rustic wooden interiors, colorful Ukrainian decorations, and friendly staff create an inviting atmosphere. The menu offers a wide range of Ukrainian dishes, including traditional soups, grilled meats, and a variety of varenyky (also known as pierogies). Save room for dessert and try their heavenly honey cake, which will leave you craving for more.

8. Danilovsky Market:

Address: Mytnaya St, 74, Moscow, 115191 Website: danilovsky.market For a unique culinary experience in Moscow, head to Danilovsky Market, a bustling food market that showcases the best of Russian and international cuisines. Here, you can find an array of stalls and food counters offering everything from fresh produce and meats to street food and gourmet treats. Indulge in traditional Russian snacks like pirozhki (stuffed pastries) or try dishes from different parts of the world. You can also purchase high-quality ingredients to take home and recreate your favorite Russian dishes.

9. Dr. Zhivago:

Address: Kuznetskiy Most St, 5/6, Moscow, 125009 Website: drzhivago.ru Dr. Zhivago is a contemporary restaurant that pays homage to Russian cuisine with a modern twist. Located in the heart of Moscow, this stylish eatery offers a menu featuring classic Russian dishes presented in a creative and innovative way. From their reinvented Olivier salad to their succulent beef stroganoff, every bite is a delight. The restaurant’s chic interiors, inspired by Soviet nostalgia, add to the overall experience. For a truly unique Moscow experience, try their signature cocktail, the “Mule Russe,” a Russian twist on the classic Moscow Mule.

10. XVII Vek:

Address: Kutuzovskiy Ave, 36/1, Moscow, 121170 Website: 17vek.ru Located in the prestigious Moscow City district, XVII Vek offers a fine dining experience combined with a breathtaking view of Moscow’s skyline. This elegant restaurant specializes in modern Russian cuisine with influences from European and Asian traditions. The menu is carefully curated, focusing on seasonal ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. Each dish is a work of art, showcasing the chef’s meticulous attention to detail. With its refined ambiance and impeccable service, XVII Vek is a perfect spot for a special occasion or a memorable culinary experience.

Moscow is undoubtedly a city that caters to the food-loving traveler. From traditional Russian cuisine to international flavors, there is something to please every palate. Whether you choose to indulge in classic dishes at Café Pushkin or explore the vibrant culinary scene at Danilovsky Market, Moscow’s gastronomy will leave you impressed and satisfied. So, pack your appetite and embark on a foodie’s journey through the diverse and delicious cuisine of Moscow.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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