Melbourne, a vibrant city in Victoria, Australia, is calling your name. Prepare to embark on a thrilling adventure as we guide you on how to plan your trip to Melbourne. From hidden gems and Instagram-worthy spots to essential travel tips, this personalized blogpost is your ticket to an unforgettable journey Down Under.
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Quick Peek
For our busy travelers, here is the Fact-sheet about our Melbourne adventure.
Travel Time
Early November
Travel Mode
Weekend Getaway
Our Must-Sees
St.Kilda, Melbourne CBD
Where to stay
Oaks Suites South Yarra
Plant-Based Food
Mobility
Rental car
Travel Budget
€1.310 / 2.165AUD
Unlocking Melbourne’s Hidden Treasures: Must-See Gems You Can’t Miss
After Adelaide, Melbourne was a welcome return to the bustling city life, and within just a few hours of arriving, we found ourselves declaring it one of the most fantastic cities we had ever visited. While Sydney would later take the lead, Melbourne held a unique fascination for us throughout our journey.
Melbourne boasts a dynamic blend of culture, cuisine, and charm that is impossible to ignore. As we roamed through its lively streets, we discovered that this city had something special for everyone.
Food, Bars, and Restaurants Galore
It seemed as though the entire city was on the move, hopping from one café to another, exploring hidden bars, and relishing the diverse culinary experiences. Melbourne’s food culture is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and cuisines that will leave you craving more.
St Kilda and Its Colorful Beach Houses
While the beach itself may not have been the most stunning, the picturesque St Kilda with its vibrant beach houses captured our hearts. The entire neighborhood exudes a dreamlike quality, making it a must-visit.
Melbourne CBD: A World of Exploration
The heart of Melbourne’s central business district (CBD) held us in its thrall. Every corner of this district invites exploration, and iconic landmarks like Marvel Stadium left us in awe. We couldn’t help but imagine the electric atmosphere when combined with a live concert.
Hidden Laneways and Street Art
Melbourne’s laneways are a treasure trove of street art, showcasing the city’s creative spirit. As we wandered through these narrow alleys, we were constantly surprised by the captivating artistry adorning the walls.
Our Melbourne Stay: Where We Rested and Recharged
In Melbourne, we decided to make Oaks at South Yarra our home for our stay. Opting for an apartment was a wise choice, providing us with both comfort and affordability. We were pleasantly surprised that the price was not only reasonable but also offered very good and fair value for money.
Navigating the parking situation turned out to be a bit of a challenge at first. However, persistence paid off, and we eventually secured parking close to the hotel. It was a minor inconvenience in the grand scheme of our Melbourne adventure.
What made our choice even more appealing was the affordability factor. Melbourne can be an expensive city, but we found a comfortable haven at a price that allowed us to fully enjoy our urban exploration without breaking the bank.
Vegan and Vegetarian Heaven: Exploring Melbourne’s Food Scene
Melbourne’s food scene is a culinary kaleidoscope, and it welcomed us with open arms, especially as vegan and vegetarian enthusiasts. The city’s diverse and inclusive culture means that there’s something delightful for every palate, including those who prefer plant-based options. However, it’s important to note that what we highlight here only scratches the surface of Melbourne’s incredible food offerings. The city boasts an astonishing array of dining possibilities, and we’re excited to share some of our favorites.
Nourish Café: A Memorable Breakfast
One of our memorable breakfast experiences was at Nourish Café, a cozy spot where we began our days with a hearty meal. While our kids played on the nearby playground, we savored delicious vegan breakfast options. It was a rare moment of tranquility amidst the bustling city.
Hidden Gems in Laneways, Including Madame K’s Thai Vegan
Melbourne’s laneways aren’t just famous for street art; they’re also home to hidden vegan and vegetarian gems. One such gem is Madame K’s Thai Vegan, where we savored the flavors of authentic Thai cuisine made entirely from plant-based ingredients. It was a culinary journey that left us craving for more.
Melbourne on the Move: Our Guide to Getting Around
Navigating Melbourne was a breeze thanks to its well-organized transportation options. During our stay, we adopted a mix of travel methods to explore the city fully.
A Blend of Transportation Choices
When you plan your trip to Melbourne think of mixing different travel modes. We utilized a rental car for convenience and flexibility, allowing us to explore areas beyond the city center. While staying in South Yarra, we drove to Flinders Street, where we discovered an unexpected perk – affordable parking, especially by Australian standards. From there, we had easy access to Melbourne’s CBD.
Exploring Melbourne CBD on Foot
In Melbourne CBD, we found that the best way to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere was by walking. The compact layout of the central business district allowed us to discover hidden laneways, street art, and iconic landmarks at our own pace.
Free Tram Zone: A Convenient Option
Melbourne introduced us to a brilliant concept – the Free Tram Zone. This zone covers the central area of the city, making all tram rides within it absolutely free. We found it incredibly convenient for getting around. It’s a cost-effective and hassle-free way to explore Melbourne’s CBD without worrying about fares.
Airport Transport Simplicity
While we primarily relied on our rental car for getting around the city, Melbourne’s overall organization and efficient public transportation system gave us confidence that getting to and from the airport would be straightforward for travelers. The city’s reputation for ease of navigation held true in all aspects of our journey.
Melbourne’s transportation options cater to every traveler’s needs, whether you prefer the flexibility of a rental car or the convenience of walking and utilizing the Free Tram Zone. Getting around Melbourne was a seamless and enjoyable part of our exploration.
Budgeting for Melbourne: How to Enjoy Without Breaking the Bank
Accomodation
Oaks Suites South Yarra 3nights €570
Food & Dining
Breakfast, Dining, Snacks
in total around €290
Mobility
Rental Car (Toyota Prado) €120 per day = €360
Petrol & Parking €90
Activities
Explored Melbourne for free
Total Spent
€1.310 / 2.165AUD
Melbourne’s Visual Treasures: Where to Take the Perfect Shot
During our visit to Melbourne, we embarked on a captivating night photography session that left us in awe of the city’s visual delights. Melbourne has an abundance of stunning locations that are perfect for capturing the magic of the night. In fact, we were so enchanted that we’d return to Melbourne solely for another photography expedition.
Here are some of the top locations we recommend for capturing the perfect night shot, complete with GPS coordinates and brief descriptions which you should not miss when you plan your trip to Melbourne:
Webb Bridge
Webb Bridge’s unique architectural design is even more impressive at night, with its illuminated spiral sculpture.
Princes Pier (Wooden Poles in the Water)
Princes Pier presents a surreal scene at night, with its wooden pylons casting mesmerizing reflections in the water.
Hosier Lane
Wander through Centre Place and Hosier Lane to discover Melbourne’s world-renowned street art illuminated by the city’s nocturnal charm.
Sandridge Bridge
The Sandridge Bridge offers an excellent vantage point to photograph Melbourne’s skyline against the Yarra River.
Here Are Your Top Travel Questions for plan a trip to Melbourne
Absolutely! Melbourne offers a wide range of family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for travelers with children. Pristine beaches, nature reserves, playgrounds, and various attractions ensure that families can create lasting memories in Melbourne.
Melbourne boasts a plethora of must-see attractions, including its vibrant central business district (CBD), iconic laneways filled with street art, Queen Victoria Market, Royal Botanic Gardens, and the picturesque St Kilda beach. The city’s diverse cultural scene and culinary delights are also worth exploring.
Yes, Melbourne is known for its thriving vegan and vegetarian food scene. You’ll find numerous cafes and restaurants offering delicious vegan options. Don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s plant-based culinary offerings.
Melbourne is approximately 470 kilometers (about 292 miles) from Sydney. You can reach it by car or opt for a quicker journey by flying into Melbourne Airport. Both options offer convenient access to the city.
Yes, you can fly drones in Melbourne, but it’s essential to adhere to local regulations and guidelines. Ensure you have all necessary permits and follow safety rules to ensure a smooth aerial photography experience.
Melbourne offers stunning aerial photography opportunities, especially around its coastline and nature reserves. Popular drone photography locations include the Merimbula Wharf, Bar Beach, and the Bournda National Park. Always check for any local restrictions before flying.
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