What is the Best Way to Explore Melbourne?

Exploring Melbourne can be an exciting adventure. With plenty of attractions to see, restaurants to try, and iconic landmarks, there is something for everyone in Australia’s second-largest city. But with so much on offer, it can be overwhelming. To help make the decision of what to do easier, here is a guide to start your exploration of Melbourne to get the most out of your trip

Visit the Local Landmarks

Exploring the iconic landmarks and streets of downtown Melbourne is a must. The city offers tourists a great opportunity to view some of the finest architecture in Australia. Prominent landmarks such as Federation Square, the Princess Theatre, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Royal Exhibition Building all make for great photo opportunities and memories which will last for a lifetime. In order to explore some of these landmarks, it is recommended to use public transport. It is much cheaper and easier than having to rely on a taxi or a tour guide.

Take a Tour

There are plenty of official and independent tour companies in Melbourne offering guided walking and bus tours. These types of tours are great for getting an overview of Melbourne, and they can often include access to well-known attractions such as the Eureka Skydeck and the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Tour companies usually provide information about their tours on their website, so shopping around for prices and locations should be relatively simple. Additionally, many of these tour companies provide discounts for large parties and group bookings.

Eat Like a Local

Australia is renowned for its cuisine, and Melbourne’s food scene is one of the best in the world. From trendy rooftop venues to local farmers markets, there’s something for every palette. With so many dining options, exploring the different types of Australian cuisine with local restaurants and bars can be a rewarding experience. Some areas to check out include Collingwood, Southbank, and Fitzroy. These neighbourhoods offer a diverse selection of local quisine, all within walking distance.

Take the Time to Shop

Shoppers can rejoice! Throughout its many laneways filled with designer boutiques and vintage stores, Melbourne offers something for everyone in terms of shopping. Whether it’s snagging a bargain from one of its many op-shops or hitting up the array of designer stores in Emporium Melbourne, shoppers will be spoilt for choice. Additionally, Melbourne also boasts some of the best markets in Australia ranging from street fashion to vintage apparel.

Hit the Beach

One of the best things about living in Australia is its access to sandy beaches – and no beach is more famous than St Kilda beach. Located just outside the city centre, it is just a short tram ride away. There are plenty of activities to do such as boating, swimming and even surfing depending on the season. There’s also a variety of cafes and restaurants located along Acland Street that all offer delicious snacks and food options.

Enjoy an Experience: The Melbourne Hidden Bar Tour

Visiting pubs in the evening is a great way to get introduced to the local culture in Melbourne and to make new friends in an informal setting. The Melbourne Hidden Bar Tour offered by GetYourGuide offers an enjoyable evening filled with great drinking spots and conversations with locals. This 3-hour tour will take you through some of the city’s best bars for craft beer, wine and cocktails making it a perfect way to explore the city’s nightlife. Your ticket will give you complimentary drinks and snacks throughout the tour to keep you going even after hours. Book your ticket now here to start your journey exploring Melbourne in a unique way.

Exploring Melbourne: An Overview

Exploring this beautiful city doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive – there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in visiting monuments and classic architecture or taking in street art and fashion, you can find it all in Melbourne. Don’t forget to visit St Kilda’s beach (summer or winter!) or taste some Australian cuisine while you’re there! And if you’re looking for a night out unlike any other – book The Melbourne Hidden Bar Tour. That way, you can explore what makes this vibrant city come alive after dark.

Insider’s Guide: Discovering the Hidden Charms of Melbourne

When you think of Melbourne, you might picture renowned tourist spots like the Great Ocean Road or Federation Square. However, this city is much more than just its famous landmarks. As a local, I can tell you that Melbourne is full of hidden treasures that only insiders know about. Let’s explore some of these lesser-known attractions!

Hidden Gems

If you want to escape the crowds, head to the Abbotsford Convent, a 19th-century convent-turned-arts-precinct. Here you will find a variety of art galleries, a bakery, a chocolatier, and even a gym. Another unique spot is the Larundel Mental Asylum, located in the suburbs of Melbourne. This abandoned hospital was once a place of frightening treatments and dark stories. Now it’s become a tourist attraction, offering guided tours that delve into its chilling past.

Culinary Delights

When it comes to food, Melbourne is a melting pot of different cultures and cuisines. If you’re a meat-lover, head to Chinatown for some juicy steak at The Meat & Wine Co. For a taste of local culture, try the famous meat pie at Harry’s Cafe de Wheels. This dish has been a Melbourne staple for over 70 years. For something sweet, try the iconic Lamington – a cake consisting of sponge cake dipped in chocolate and coated with desiccated coconut – at Babka Bakery Café.

Cultural Experiences

The Melbourne International Jazz Festival is one event that music lovers should not miss out on. For ten days every year, world-class jazz performers light up the city with their smooth renditions. Another cultural landmark is the Opera House, renowned for its opulence and grandeur. You can also catch some indigenous Australian performances at the Koorie Heritage Trust, where you can learn about Aboriginal art, history, and culture.

Local History

Melbourne is steeped in history, from the Gold Rush era to modern times. Visit the Royal Exhibition Building, the oldest exhibition hall in the world, to appreciate its stunning architecture and rich history. You can also explore the old Melbourne gaol, where some infamous criminals were imprisoned and executed, including the bushranger Ned Kelly. For something different, take a night tour of The Old Melbourne Cemetery, where you can hear the stories of Melbourne’s past residents and experience the city’s paranormal side.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Looking for something truly unique? Take a stroll along Bicycle Boulevard, a street where bikes rule the road and cars take a backseat. Also, try a class at the Circus Oz Training Centre, where you can learn the ropes of circus performance. For a bird’s eye view of the city, try the Edge – an attraction where you can step out over the city’s skyline and marvel at the views of Melbourne city.

In conclusion, Melbourne is a city full of surprises, waiting to be discovered. With its blend of cultures, history, and unique experiences, you are sure to leave with unforgettable memories. So why not escape the touristic hotspots and delve into the hidden gems that Melbourne has to offer?