Top 10 Things To Do In Melbourne
If you are a new visitor to our fair city then look no further than our list of top ten activities to make you feel like a ‘true’ Melbournian.
Queen Victoria Market
Wander through the fresh produce, grab a warm croissant and explore the endless stalls selling everything from jewellery and clothes to fresh flowers. Check out their website too for night markets in winter and summer. Locals flock to enjoy some of the region’s best independent designers, artisans, performers and chefs.
Located on corner of Elizabeth and Victoria Streets in Melbourne's CBD, the historic building is spread over two city blocks and is open five days a week—Tuesday, and Thursday to Sunday.
A Game at the MCG
Even if you know very little about Australian Football League (AFL) or cricket, a trip to the MCG is a must. Boasting a capacity of 100,000 wild sporting fans, the atmosphere at a local game can be nothing short of electric. So buy yourself a ticket in the nose bleed section, settle down with an Aussie beer and meat pie, and prepare to become an AFL fanatic in no time.
Shopping in Melbourne’s laneways
Most people’s to-do list includes a spot of retail shopping and Melbourne truly has it all. Local independent designers, global fashion chains such as Zara and H&M and luxury boutiques all reside in the CBD. Begin in Centres Place, take in the amazing street art, grab an espresso and let the city’s infamous European laneways lead you on a shopping expedition like no other. We are yet to see one of our hotel guests come back empty handed!
www.visitvictoria.com/Regions/Melbourne/Destinations/Laneways
A walk along the St Kilda Pier
Weather pending, grab your coat and head out to St Kilda pier. Take in the panoramic views over the bay across to the city. Hire a bike, skates or paddle board if you are feeling adventurous. Enjoy fish and chips on the sandy shores or choose from one of many amazing eateries on Acland or Fitzroy Streets. Otherwise Luna Park is great playground fun for the whole family. The Great Scenic Railway roller coaster is over 102 years old but don’t worry, restoration work has just been completed and with heart-stopping dips and turns it has the most stunning views of Port Phillip Bay.
www.stkildamelbourne.com.au
www.lunapark.com.au
Dinner at any of the following top establishments
Don’t panic but world-renowned restaurants are just a short stroll away from your hotel room. There is a plethora of fine dining choices located within Crown including innovative Japanese at Nobu, traditional French cuisine at Bistro Guillaume or one of the best steaks you’ll ever experience at Rockpool Bar & Grill. Off campus, we suggest you try any of the following unforgettable restaurants:
- Chin Chin
- Attica
- Hellenic Republic
- Cumulus Inc.
- Maha
6) Great Ocean Road
If time permits, we suggest taking a drive down the scenic Great Ocean Road. Arguably the best coastal drive in the world, take in the iconic surf spots and coastal villages, limestone cliffs and rainforests in the Great Otway National Park and, experience Victoria at its finest.
www.visitgreatoceanroad.org.au
7) Yarra Valley Wineries
Another highly recommended day trip is a visit to the Yarra Valley wineries. Just under an hour east of Melbourne, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Ranges this region is home to many of Australia's leading examples of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet blends. With outstanding local produce readily available you will not have to look too hard to find somewhere great to eat.
www.wineriesyarravalley.com.au
8) Melbourne Zoo or Aquarium
If you are visiting with children, a must-see is the Melbourne Zoo or Aquarium. Get up close and see lions, gorillas and baby elephants at the Zoo or saltwater crocodiles and sea turtles at the Aquarium. For the daredevils at heart- you can book a shark dive and take a swim with these amazing creatures of the deep.
www.zoo.org.au
www.melbourneaquarium.com.au
9) Discover Melbourne’s Best Coffee
Melbourne is renowned for its good coffee so be ahead of the pack and seek out these tried and tested cafes located in the CBD. Fans of artificial sweeteners and skim milk be warned!
- Brother Baba Budan
- Cup of Truth
- Patricia
- The Waiting Room
10) Dumplings in Chinatown
Take in the bustling Chinatown situated in the heart of the CBD on Little Bourke St. There is plenty to see and do but most importantly, there are some amazing dumpling houses to satisfy your cravings. We recommend Hutong Dumpling Restaurant which serves up thousands of mouth-watering dumplings every day!
