Ask any Melbourne resident and they’ll likely argue their city is the most flourishing creative, cultural hub of Australia. Maybe it’s the decades-long (light-hearted) feud between Melbourne and Sydney – the inhabitants of both will have you believe the other has little to offer in comparison – but those who live there just adore its food, creativity and nightlife, regardless of what other Aussies may say about the beaches (more on that below).
As someone who spends much of their year living in Melbourne, I’ve explored the city thoroughly. And from its lush green spaces to the thriving foodie scene and myriad artsy experiences, it’s one of the most liveable cities in the world. In fact, it was ranked fourth in the Global Liveability Index this year, and it has plenty to offer visitors, too.
Melbourne is highly walkable, with trains and trams aplenty if you fancy going further, quicker. There are different vibes and energies depending on where you go: the north has a cool, eclectic feel, while the south is a little more polished. When the hustle and bustle of the big city gets too much, there are beautiful green spaces to explore: the Royal Botanical Gardens are home to hundreds of flora and fauna and Albert Park’s scenic lake is the perfect spot to enjoy an iced coffee (not to mention, it hosts the yearly Australian Grand Prix). Then there’s the top-notch shopping, food and culture (think: museums such as the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre and an eclectic live comedy scene). If that isn’t enough to convince you to visit this cultural capital next time you’re in Australia, here are a few more highlights. This is my guide to making the most of 72 hours in Melbourne...
Day 1
CHECK INTO... A hotel or Airbnb. Most Melburnians will rightfully tell you that you needn’t centre your trip around the CBD (central business district) – the surrounding burbs have much more to offer in terms of authentic experiences. That said, the CBD is super central and has good transport links from the airport and into the rest of Melbourne, so it makes sense to stay here as a visitor. HYDE Melbourne Place is the epitome of Australian chic, while QT is another great mid-range option; both of which offer the best in boutique. For modern luxury, try the W or, if you’re on more of a budget, The Larwill Studio offers rooms starting at £84 per night.
GRAB A MORNING COFFEE AT... One of the CBD’s many incredible spots. As you may know, Melbourne is famed for its coffee scene and is proud of the theory it created the flat white. For coffee traditionalists, Patricia is the place to go. You may have to wait in line, but the queue moves fast and it’s absolutely worth it. If you have more of a sweet tooth, try one of Overlay’s viral Peanut Cream Lattes, or walk a little further out to reach Good Measure, famed for its Mont Blanc creations that combine cold brew with a delicious orange-flavored cream foam.
GET AROUND BY... Tram. The city is so easy to explore this way. You can buy – and top up – a Myki card (Melbourne’s answer to London’s Oyster) from any train station nearby via a ticket machine. The inner-city area around the CBD offers free tram travel, too. After a short perusal around the CBD (check out the State Library and take a pic from the viewing platform there), hop on a tram to the inner-city suburb of Richmond.
GRAB A BITE DURING... A mini food tour of Richmond. My favourite trifecta is Mile End Bagels – Baker Of Things – Hector’s Deli. I’ll start off with a number six bagel (ham, cheese and egg salad) at Mile End before crossing the road and grabbing a coffee and a white chocolate sprinkle cookie at the bakery, and sitting in to enjoy the sun-drenched space. A short walk brings you to Hector’s Deli, which is beloved for its mammoth sandwiches – they also do refreshing spritz drinks during the summer months. Get this order to take away for later on.
GET LOST IN... The Royal Botanic Gardens. Hop on the tram or – if it’s a nice day – walk across from Hector’s, which will take you around 45 minutes. These gardens made me fall in love with the city; they’re the perfect place to eat your sandwich and read a good book, or simply to bask in the sun and people watch.
END THE DAY AT... one of Melbourne’s many stylish wine bars for drinks and small bites. If you’re keen to stay in the area (Richmond/South Yarra), both Clover and Gracie’s Wine Room are safe bets for smooth reds, refreshing whites and experimental orange wines – as well as brilliant bread, cheese and meats. I also love Essie Wine in Malvern and Albert’s in Armadale. Afterwards, if you still fancy seeing more of the city, head up to the edge of Richmond (after-dark) to see the Skipping Girl Sign in Abbotsford all lit up, and take a picture.
Day 2
HEAD UP TO... The Fitzroy and Collingwood area via tram. This is like the East London of Melbourne; full of cool shops, revered food spots and artsy experiences. Start with brunch at Terror Twilight and pick up some of the cafe’s cool merch while you’re there. If you fancy something smaller (think: coffee and a pastry), opt for To Be Frank: a great Collingwood bakery that has a community feel. There’s a high chance you’ll see some very cute dogs there, too.
RELAX BY... Heading to one of the area’s super stylish bathhouses. Sense Of Self and Inner Studio (both Collingwood) offer casual day passes for an hour or two at a time. Facilities include saunas, steam rooms, plunge pools and chill-out areas.
SWING BY... The famous vintage photobooth at 48A Smith St – but time it right (not at peak hours) to avoid a queue. Afterwards, wander the Smith Street area for some great indie concept stores selling fashion, beauty and homeware. End with a visit to Hommey’s Fitzroy store to pick up some cosy PJs or a striped robe. Alternatively, rather than shopping you could visit the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Carlton to learn more about the history, art and culture of Aboriginal peoples in Victoria.
EAT AROUND... The Fitzroy area, which is the city’s foodie hub. Try Amarillo for jalapeño margaritas and Spanish tapas, or opt for one of the area’s beloved pubs like the Builders Arms Hotel or Marquis of Lorne. Alternatively, head up to Carlton North and grab a bite at Florian for a wholesome, produce-driven menu on Thursdays and Fridays, followed by life-changing ice cream at Luther’s Scoops, a little further up in Brunswick (the brown butter cheesecake flavour is a must).
FINISH THE NIGHT WITH... 10/10 late-night cocktails at Caretaker’s Cottage back in the CBD. I love its vibrant-yet-cosy energy and the drinks are phenomenal. The space is open until 1am but gets very busy, meaning you’ll likely have to queue a little to get in – but it’s worth the wait.
Day 3
START YOUR DAY... With an early-morning pilates session at Fluidform in Malvern. I’ve tried nearly every boutique reformer studio in Melbourne, and this is easily my favourite – the space is lovely and the instructors are so knowledgeable, friendly and hands-on (book in for Jordyn or Makalia’s classes, they’re my go-tos).
TAKE A SHORT STROLL... From Malvern up to Armadale high street. On your way you’ll pass Readings bookstore, which is worth dropping into if you always have a book in your hand. At the top of the high street, you can pick up a coffee at Nigel, an unpretentious cafe that does a great flat white. Sip your coffee as you peruse the shops on Armadale high street: there’s Dissh, Stylerunner, Nude Lucy, Assembly Label and the new Henne store for cool Aussie fashion buys, and a Mecca store for beauty (alternatively, you may want to check out the amazing new Mecca flagship back in the CBD that boasts three floors).
SPEND YOUR AFTERNOON... One of two ways. You could either catch the tram northwest to Prahan market for a Fondue Special toastie at Maker & Monger (worth travelling for), or head southwest to the beach. Melbourne isn’t exactly known for its beaches (cue jokes from Sydney dwellers), but there are still some nice spots to catch some rays and take a dip on a hot day. My favourite is Elwood beach. It’s worth swinging by Arlo for a coffee and a lunch-to-go as you make your way there.
TRAVEL BACK... To the CBD for dinner (try Supernormal for delicious East Asian-inspired cuisine) and nighttime activities. Melbourne has a great comedy scene and there are often shows on throughout the year. Alternatively (depending on when you visit), there are usually other events on that are worth checking out, from the Moonlight Cinema at the Botanic Gardens (over the summer) to AFL ‘footy’ matches during winter. If you happen to be around in March and are a Formula 1 fan, you can also experience the Melbourne Grand Prix in Albert Park, where the new year of racing officially kicks off.
