Melbourne Travel Guide

Live music and nightlife can best be experienced in Melbourne, Australia. Tourists from all over the world flock to this city to soak up its European vibe and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

Sydney may have more well-known attractions, but Melbourne offers the best nightlife and is a popular destination for international backpackers. It's no secret that I consider this to be Australia's greatest metropolis.

You could spend a week here and still have plenty to do with all the museums, galleries, and concerts. It's possible that you'll follow in the footsteps of many other tourists and never want to return home. A trip here is not something to be rushed. There is a wide variety of attractions, activities, and restaurants to choose from.

This Melbourne travel guide is meant to help you make the most of your time in Australia's second-largest city.

Vacation Ideas in Melbourne

Enjoy the cafés

The café culture in this city is part of its soul. Everyone here loves to enjoy coffee or tea and a snack while doing some work or conversing in an arty café.

Also, don't skip out on this. If you want to know why Melburnians spend so much time in cafés, you may take a trip with Melbourne Coffee Tours or Café Culture Walk and then spend the day reading a book at your new favourite place.

Celebrate in St. Kilda

As the location to be seen and be heard, Melbourne's famous nightlife district features a wide variety of low-priced restaurants, bars, and clubs. This is the place to go if you're looking for the seedier side of Melbourne.

If you want to go out and have a good time with a diverse group of international students and locals alike, one of my favourite spots is Base Melbourne. Their basement pub is frequented by locals for its low drink prices.

Experience the beauty of the setting sun on the beach before crossing the espy (Esplanade Hotel) road to enjoy a live music and a Chicken Parma. If the beachside amusement park Luna Park is operational, you might choose to spend the afternoon there first.

You can quench your sweet desire at 7 Apples Gelato, located on Acland St. Get one last look at the city lights reflected in Port Phillip from the beach in St. Kilda before retiring to your air BnB.

You might also try searching for penguins nesting in the breakwater with the aid of a torch (red light only).

Enjoying a film under the stars

The Royal Botanic Gardens have free movie screenings every night during the summer, and the films shown are typically blockbuster hits from Hollywood. You can enjoy a nice picnic while viewing movies if you bring your own food and drinks with you.

It's similar to visiting a drive-in theatre, except you won't need a car. If you want to come, you should bring a sweater and a blanket in case it gets cold (it can get a little chilly sometimes). Ticket prices begin at $ 19 AUD ($ 15 USD).

Terminal of Flinders Street

Flinders Street Station, which opened in 1854, is a major landmark and gathering spot in the heart of Melbourne.

Both the building and the clocks at the station have a Victorian style. For a time in the 1920s, it was the busiest train station in the world, and even now, it remains the busiest suburban train station in the Southern Hemisphere.

Federation Square is the place to be

Federation Square is located directly along the free City Circle train route and directly across from Flinders Street Station. This 8-acre public space was opened in 1968 and is a great place to people-watch.

We enjoy eating our lunches here while people-watching in the downtown. Several eateries and watering holes may be found along the riverbank just below the square. All sorts of unique events take place here throughout the summer.

You should check out the National Gallery of Victoria

The National Gallery of Australia, found in Federation Square, is the country's largest, oldest, and most-visited art museum (over 3 million people visit each year).

Over 75,000 sculptures, paintings, and other artworks by modern and contemporary painters, as well as aboriginal and indigenous artisans, are on display here.

In just a few hours, you'll have seen everything of interest. There aren't many better free things to do in town. Unless otherwise noted, there is no price for entry; however, some temporary exhibits may require a separate fee.

Read up on Victoria's State Library

Approximately 8 million people visit the State Library of Victoria each year, making it one of the most visited libraries in the world. The library, which was established in 1856, is now a popular community gathering spot.

If you show up early enough, you can see a line of people waiting to get the first available desks.

It would be a shame to miss the octogonal centre rotunda with its original dark wood furniture and book-lined walls. You can learn more about the library's rich past and impressive design by taking advantage of one of the many available guided tours.

Explore the Como Palace and Gardens

This grand estate is over 160 years old and features a sophisticated fusion of traditional Italianate design and Australian regency. Considered the finest of the city's historic homes, it provides an exclusive view into the extravagant lifestyle of 19th-century Australian high society.

If you are interested in the history of this stunning estate, you can pay $15 AUD (approximately $11.50 USD) for a guided tour. The grounds are open to visitors at no charge.

See the National Museum of Immigration.

The Immigration Museum has been open since 1998 and is housed in the historic Old Customs House.

As early as 1788, Europeans began flooding into the nation, bringing with them their own cultural norms and so driving out the indigenous people who had lived there for over 50,000 years. There is a $15 ($11.50) entrance fee.

Check out the Melbourne Museum

Australian social history, indigenous culture, science, and the natural and built environments are all on display at the Melbourne Museum. The large Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Center, which showcases aboriginal culture, art, and history, was the highlight of the museum for me.

Any family on the road will like the children's segment. There is a $15 ($11.50) entrance fee.

Enjoy a relaxing wine tasting excursion

In this part of the world, seeing vineyards is a huge tourist draw. Melbourne's Mornington Peninsula is home to a thriving wine industry and is widely recognised as a top destination for wine tourism.

It is home to more than 40 vineyards and is about 45 minutes from the city. Additionally, the Yarra Valley is a popular destination for day vacations (which is where most tours take you).

Day trips from Melbourne cost between 150 and 225 AUD ($114 and 172 USD) per person, depending on whether you rent a car or stay overnight.

Plan a day trip to Phillip Island

Phillip Island is a popular weekend getaway for city dwellers who want to spend some time at the beach. The island is well-known for its koala refuge, its large seal colony, and the nightly penguin parade (during which thousands of penguins return from the sea to nest). Although day trips to the island are possible, I would advise staying at least one night due to the infrequency of bus service.

Costs of a Trip to Melbourne

The cost of a hostel

An individual can expect to pay between 20 to 25 AUD for a bed in a shared room with six to ten other people. Room rates for private accommodations start at $60 AUD per night, with the average being closer to $90 AUD . Common amenities such as free breakfast and Wi-Fi access are found at most of these establishments.

Tent campers can spend anything from $30 to $60 AUD  per night at one of a few of holiday parks outside the city with basic unpowered plots. If you're willing to camp a bit further from civilisation but still for free, there are a few parks on the outskirts of the city that are perfect for that.

Inexpensive hotel rates

The cheapest hotels in Australia provide double rooms for as little as 100 AUD ($77 USD) a night. Standard features such as Wi-Fi, TV, and air conditioning are provided. The downtown area will have higher costs.

Private rooms on Airbnb in the city start at 50 AUD ($38 USD) per night, however the average price is closer to 110 AUD ($87 USD). Costs for full houses and apartments will start at $170 AUD ($130 USD).

What the typical grocery bill looks like

In Australia, you can get a good meal for less than $20 USD ($15 AUD) at any number of restaurants serving pizza, ramen, and other inexpensive options. If you're looking for affordable eats in Australia, especially Asian eats, you should head to Melbourne. Some of the greatest sushi I've ever eaten was at this restaurant. However, the average cost of a supper at a sit-down restaurant is at least 20 AUD ($15 USD) (without a drink).

Fast food (like McDonald's) can run you about $12 AUD ($9 USD) for a combo meal, while a grab-and-go sandwich will run you about $10 AUD ($7 USD). In the neighbourhood of 10 Australian Dollars ($7 USD), you may purchase a six-pack of beer, while a latte or cappuccino will set you back only 5 Australian Dollars ($3 USD). You may anticipate to pay about $2 AUD ($2 USD) for a bottle of water.

Prices for staples like pasta, veggies, and chicken for a week range from $72 to $98 AUD ($55 to $75 USD).

Melbourne Travel Tips

Token for Rapid Transit System (Myki Card)

There are two surefire ways to strike up a conversation with a Melburnian: the weather and the Myki system. There have been some hiccups in Melbourne's contactless ticketing system for the public transportation system, which has a total worth of $1.5 billion and has been plagued with problems, but the bottom line is that a "Myki" card costs $6.

You can get them from vending machines and a few booths at train stations, as well as from some retailers including 7-Eleven and Tattersall's convenience stores.

Remember, too, that you can't buy them on the subway or bus. After purchasing a Myki, you can add "Myki money" or a "Myki pass," the latter of which gives you unlimited rides for a predetermined period of time, to your card.

If you want to ride the train, tram, or bus, you'll need to 'touch on' your Myki by tapping it on the reader. To "touch off," simply touch it again after you've reached your destination.

Administrators on trams are often friendly and polite. They'll give you a heads up when it's time to get off at the next stop. They are in charge of the cable car, so get out of their way!

The vast majority of residents are happy to offer guidance and other helpful information regarding the intricacies of the public transit system in such a situation.

Managing One's Time

Melbourne is a culinary mecca, and you can find fantastically priced dinners all across the city. You will also look for Michelin-starred meals for under $10 in Melbourne.

Alternatively, you can visit Chinatown and sample a variety of delicious, inexpensive dumplings. The title of "Late Night Champion" is one that our sincere city is pleased to claim.

You can't party till the wee hours and then stop for a nice lunch anywhere else in the country.

While it's true that some Melbourne eateries close their doors at around 9 or 10 p.m., plenty more remain open.

One can purchase alcoholic beverages late at night, although this is not the case everywhere. While Melbournians like to think of their city as always open, it is not quite as hectic as New York.

Many of the nightclubs closed at 2:00, and the last one even earlier, at 1:00. Melbourne is often regarded as having first-rate shopping, but don't count on finding your favourite store open past 5 o'clock on weekdays or on Sundays.

Some stores close quite early on weekdays and may only be open throughout the week and/or on Sunday mornings. Weekends and weeknights are the best times to go shopping late, as many stores remain open until 9 or later.

If you want to take it easy when riding the escalator, remember to stand on the left side of the platform.

Pack For ‘Four Seasons’

Melbourne has a mild, temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters. The months of December and February are summer, followed by the months of March and May for fall, June through August for winter, and September through November for spring.

Within the winter, temperatures can drop to 5°F, while the summer can reach highs of 95°F. Overall rainfall is relatively modest, although the city often feels damp because of the persistent light rain that falls mostly in the winter.

During the spring and fall, Melbourne's weather is known to undergo dramatic changes from day to day, with some days experiencing all four seasons in just 24 hours.

The climate in Melbourne can be unpredictable. It may be chilly and wet in the winter, but there are also days when the sun shines brightly and the temperature is in the high 20s. While you might arrive in the thick of a 40-degree inferno in the summer, you might also find a cool high of 14 degrees with a chance of rain.

Consequently, you should consider bringing items for all four seasons when you pack. Prepare for the changing seasons by packing a coat, boots, and extra layers. When it comes to mould, Melbourne considers itself Australia's "capital." Include some dark pieces in your suitcase if you want to blend in with local fashion trends. Another essential piece of advice for visiting Melbourne is the following.

Tips for Melbourne's Safety

Regardless of where you're going, you should always be aware of your surroundings and take measures as necessary. If you're planning a vacation to the city, here are a few safety precautions to take:

• Although you may be in close quarters, it is important to maintain awareness of your surroundings and to stick together as a group. In case you become separated along the way, plan a place to meet up.
• If you're not into strip clubs and dive bars, you may want to avoid Kings Street. It's no secret that Kings Street is one of Melbourne's naughtiest thoroughfares.
• Theft and pickpocketing are commonplace. Keep your money, phone, and belongings concealed and out of sight at all times to reduce the risk of being a victim of theft. Place bags and briefcases discreetly under your chair in restaurants and pubs, or use a table clip if one is provided.
• Never trust anyone else with your bags, and have your money and ID close at hand at all times. Do not forget to keep your backpack facing forwards, especially when in a crowded location. Lost property can be reported to the nearest police station by dialling 131 444. It will be up to you to condense a lengthy report into as few words as feasible.
• Don't walk around with a tonne of cash, and if you must use an ATM, make sure no one can see your PIN number while you type it in.
• Passports and other valuables should be kept in a secure location at all times. And remember to always have the hotel's contact information with you. It can be used to find your way home if you get lost.

What to Do to Avoid Danger in Melbourne?

For lone female travellers or those who prefer to be on their own, Melbourne is a safe and welcoming destination.

Generally speaking, people will be nice to you and willing to lend a hand. Always be on the lookout for pickpockets, and remember that Melbourne is a large city (like any other big city).

Don't second-guess yourself; always go with your gut. When taking a cab, if the driver gives off a bad vibe, it's best to get out of there. Don't stay there if it's seedier than you anticipated it would be. In case of an unexpected emergency while abroad, you should make duplicates of your important documents, such as your passport and photo identification.

If you wouldn't do it at home, don't do it in Melbourne. Keeping to that guideline will ensure your safety.

In the summer, Melbourne may get very hot, so pack accordingly if you plan on coming. Apply liberal amounts of sunscreen, keep yourself covered, and hydrate well.

The single most important thing you can do to protect yourself when travelling is to get travel insurance. Insurance can help you avoid financial loss in the event of things like lost luggage, cancelled flights, medical emergencies, or theft.

It's a safety nett for the worst case scenario. Having used it numerous times before, it is an item you should never leave home without.

Conclusion

Travelers flock to Melbourne, Australia, because it is the country's second-largest city. Using this advice, you'll be able to take full advantage of the relaxed atmosphere of this city. Melbourne's Flinders Street Station is a local icon. During the summer, the Royal Botanic Gardens screen movies for free. The National Gallery of Victoria is the largest, oldest, and most-visited art museum in Victoria.

The State Library of Victoria is a well-visited institution. The Como Palace and Gardens are a window into the lifestyles of Australia's upper class during the 19th century. The Australian Aboriginal history is on display at the National Museum of Immigration. Mornington Peninsula is a popular destination for wine lovers. The cheapest double rooms in Australia can cost up to $100 AUD ($77 USD) per night.

Spend between $30 and $60 per night when tent camping away from the city. The going rate for homes and flats is $170 AUD ($130 USD). If you're looking for affordable Asian cuisine in Australia, go no further than Melbourne. It costs at least $15 USD for a sit-down meal (without a drink). In exchange for $10 AUD ($7 USD), you can purchase a convenient sandwich to eat on the fly.

There are problems with Melbourne's contactless ticketing system. Myki cards are not available for purchase on the subway or bus for $6. The reader needs to feel your Myki. While some Melbourne eateries close at nightfall (about 9 or 10 p.m.), many others do not. At one in the morning, the final nightclub shut its doors.

Some shops are open exclusively on weekdays, and even then, they could close early. The summers in Melbourne are hot, while the winters are cold. Seasons in order: summer (December and February), autumn (March and May), winter (June through August), and spring (September through November). Keep in mind the varying temperatures throughout the year and pack accordingly. How to be safe in Melbourne.

Melbourne is a large metropolis with a high rate of pickpocketing. Establish a safe location to regroup with your group in case you become separated.

Content Summary

• Live music and nightlife can best be experienced in Melbourne, Australia.
• You should check out the National Gallery of Victoria.
• Read up on Victoria's State Library.
• See the National Museum of Immigration.
• Check out the Melbourne Museum.
• Plan a day trip to Phillip IslandPhillip Island is a popular weekend getaway for city dwellers who want to spend some time at the beach.
• If you're looking for affordable eats in Australia, especially Asian eats, you should head to Melbourne.
• However, the average cost of a supper at a sit-down restaurant is at least 20 AUD ($15 USD) (without a drink).Fast food (like McDonald's) can run you about $12 AUD ($9 USD) for a combo meal, while a grab-and-go sandwich will run you about $10 AUD ($7 USD).
• There have been some hiccups in Melbourne's contactless ticketing system for the public transportation system, which has a total worth of $1.5 billion and has been plagued with problems, but the bottom line is that a "Myki" card costs $6.You can get them from vending machines and a few booths at train stations, as well as from some retailers including 7-Eleven and Tattersall's convenience stores.
• Remember, too, that you can't buy them on the subway or bus.
• After purchasing a Myki, you can add "Myki money" or a "Myki pass," the latter of which gives you unlimited rides for a predetermined period of time, to your card.
• If you want to ride the train, tram, or bus, you'll need to 'touch on' your Myki by tapping it on the reader.
• You will also look for Michelin-starred meals for under $10 in Melbourne.
• One can purchase alcoholic beverages late at night, although this is not the case everywhere.
• Weekends and weeknights are the best times to go shopping late, as many stores remain open until 9 or later.
• The climate in Melbourne can be unpredictable.
• Consequently, you should consider bringing items for all four seasons when you pack.
• Prepare for the changing seasons by packing a coat, boots, and extra layers.