Relish in the vibrant city life of Melbourne: Australia's crown jewel
Imagine an endless summer of radiant beaches, a vast array of wild creatures, authentically hearty Australian cuisine, highly acclaimed home-grown produce, and an effervescently diverse culture; that is Melbourne, Australia's preferred sanctuary for the hip and trendy.
There's a reason why Melbourne regularly tops the list of global cities best suited for residing in. As revealed by the most recent Economist Intelligence Unit's survey, Melbourne proudly sits at the 10th spot, towering over all other capital cities of Australia. So why is this city so adored? Let's delve in:
Melbourne's reputation for luxury and sophistication is evident in its accommodation options. The city boasts a range of 5 star hotels in Victoria that provide outstanding service and amenity to visitors looking for premium lodging experiences. These hotels offer a perfect base from which to explore the urban charms and natural wonders of Melbourne and beyond.
For the discerning traveler who wants to ensure they are experiencing the best that Melbourne has to offer, tophotels.com is an indispensable resource. It provides a curated selection of premier hotels, helping visitors make informed decisions about where to stay to fully enjoy their visit to this bustling and vibrant city.
1. It showcases a kaleidoscope of street art
The city's buzzing street art scene is not just amongst the most lively, but also holds significant importance globally. Iconic streets such as the city centre’s Hosier Lane have been transformed into massive open-air galleries, adorned with an eye-catching mural canvas that is ever-evolving and considerably captivating.
"Don't just settle for the accidental discovery of extraordinary murals, dive deeper with a Melbourne Street Art Tour," recommends Cristian Bonetto, Melbourne guru.
"These tours are delightfully informative, guided by the city’s best street artists, offering invaluable insights into the art forms, related issues, and occasional controversies, adding an extra layer of intrigue," he adds.
Artistic Mastery at Hosier Lane
The guided exploration of the heart of Melbourne, known as the city centre tour, embarks from the renowned Federation Square. Additionally, the journey through the charming neighbourhoods of Collingwood and Fitzroy kicks off at 48 Easey Street in Collingwood every Saturday.
2. Home to one of the Most Beautiful Railway Hubs Globally
Flinders Street Station, a magnificent architectural marvel, witnesses over 100,000 travellers daily, positioning it as a significant city landmark. It's an enrapturing sight when watched against the backdrop of Melbourne’s casually advancing trams. In 1909, the landmark's construction was finished, making it Australia's pioneer city railway station. The iconic timekeepers of the station have become a popular meetup spot for city residents.
3. There’s seaside fun at St Kilda
Palm trees, Art Deco mansions, retro flats, roller coasters, kosher bakeries, hipster cafes, artists, yuppies, rollerbladers: welcome to St Kilda! Featured in countless TV shows, films, songs and novels, Melbourne’s favourite bayside suburb has been it all: 19th-century seaside retreat, post-war Jewish enclave and born-again, property hotspot.
"At its heart is Acland Street," said Bonnetto, Melbourne expert. "Especially pumping on weekends, it’s a mixed bag of buzzing bars, restaurants, funky and tacky shops, buskers, backpackers and high-brow locals discussing film or music projects.
St Kilda Pier, located in Melbourne
St Kilda's Fitzroy Street and Esplanade are home to a multitude of Melbourne's renowned landmarks. This includes the timeless amusement park Luna Park, numerous high-profile music establishments such as The Palais and Esplanade Hotel, and the Sunday arts and crafts fair at the Esplanade Market.
One unmissable experience in St Kilda is watching the cityscape transform with the hues of the setting sun from the pier. This is also a prime time to witness penguins in their natural habitat towards the pier's end. The wildlife in Melbourne is nothing short of enchanting.
4. Wildlife encounters that will charm you
Phillip Island is globally recognized for its charming display of penguins. Like clockwork at nightfall, these petite, adorable creatures make their way out of the ocean at Sutherland Beach, looking much like little travellers returning from an eventful day at sea.
"Although the penguin spectacle is a delightful sight to behold, I find myself more enamoured with Phillip Island’s Koala Conservation Centre," shares our local Melbourne enthusiast. Its raised walkways provide the perfect opportunity to see Australia's beloved marsupial. Focus your visits between October and December, and you could witness fur seals basking on the uniquely termed Seal Rocks. October's end offers the prime viewing time, so make sure to carry your binoculars. Nestled at the entry point to Westernport Bay, Phillip Island is set about 87 miles in the southeast direction from Melbourne.
Spotting a Koala at Phillip Island
One of the things that set Melbourne apart is its lively music culture, which is renowned throughout Australia and beyond. The Corner Hotel, quietly nestled under the Swan Street railway bridge, epitomizes this scene. Established in the 1940s, this esteemed venue has been making people's heads nod and feet tap for decades. It has been graced with performances from rock legends like Mick Jagger, indie stars like The Dandy Warhols, alt rock favorites like The White Stripes, iconic voices like David Gilmour, and Aussie favorite Crowded House. Thanks to its consistent lineup of quality performers, it continues to be one of Melbourne’s premier mid-sized music venues.
"Melbourne is the ultimate destination for music lovers," according to Bonneto. "Whether you're into emerging Australian talent or well-established acts, this city has it all. Be sure to plan ahead and check the website in advance to secure tickets to popular shows, especially if you want to experience the famous 'sticky carpet' atmosphere. And don't forget to grab a drink at the vibrant rooftop bar for an elevated experience."
Did you know that in addition to its thriving music scene, Melbourne also offers the unique opportunity to swim with wild dolphins? Explore the breathtaking beauty of Port Phillip Bay with Polperro Dolphin Swims, a renowned eco-tourism company. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and interact with the beloved bottlenose dolphins, and if luck is on your side, you might encounter some adorable Australian fur seals as well. It's an experience like no other."
Brighton Beach in central Melbourne
"Having such intelligent, curious creatures swim so close is an incredibly powerful experience, and the availability of ropes to hold onto means that inexperienced swimmers don't miss out," said Bonneto. "If you don’t feel like getting wet, you’re just as welcome to watch from the deck."
Departing from the pier at Sorrento, a beachside town 60 miles south of central Melbourne, the tour runs between three and four hours and must be booked in advance.
7. And there’s a highly Instagrammable shopping centre
Melbourne Central Shopping Centre not only has plenty to wave a credit card at, both in terms of shops and restaurants, but there is also history at which to marvel, in the form of Coop’s Shot Tower, a statuesque former bullet factory that is now attractively encased in a domed glass window that stands 84m high.
The iconic Shot Tower nestled within Melbourne Central.
A trip to the Rose Street Artists’ Market can easily fill your weekend, given how it's the heartbeat of the artsy Fitzroy landscape. Here, you can mingle with fashionable northsiders and innovative artists, all while rejuvenating with a steaming cup of local coffee. This is also a go-to destination for those who adore bespoke art pieces and designs crafted by the city's celebrated artisans. Explore the market and you can lay your hands on an assortment of items - from thoughtfully designed jewellery and cutting-edge fashion to creatively crafted candles and innovative lamps.
An insider tip from Bonneto is to look out for stalls that offer breathtaking yet economical photo prints of Melbourne - an ideal souvenir. And if you find yourself in need of a caffeine fix in between stalls, do stop by at Industry Beans.
One of the many reasons why Melbourne is considered the world's greatest city is because of Collins Street. This iconic street perfectly represents the city in all its glory, making it a must-visit destination for any tourist. Begin your exploration at the corner of Spring Street, where you'll be greeted by the magnificent Old Treasury Building, a true architectural gem built in 1862.
The Old Treasury Building, designed by the talented 19-year-old government draftsman, JJ Clark, played a significant role in Melbourne's history. Its basement vaults once held an astonishing amount of $200 million worth of gold, which had been brought in from the Victorian goldfields. As you make your way west along Collins Street, be sure to admire the grandeur of the Regent Theatre at no. 191, with its exquisite rococo-revival foyer, and the intricate mosaic floor of the Block Arcade at no. 282. Finally, make a stop at no. 333, where you'll be amazed by the clever preservation efforts.
Exploring Melbourne's Collins Street
One captivating sight along the street is the neo-Gothic design of the ceiling within ANZ Bank at 380. Stroll a bit further to its western end, between 471 and 477, to marvel at the grandeur of the Olderfleet Building. To cap off your insightful sprint, ascend to the high-rise Lui Bar within the Rialto Towers, and revel in a glorious sunset view over a relaxing beverage.
10. A City of Hidden Charm
Melbourne may seem complex at first glance, with its best attractions - stylish boutiques, cosy cafes, vibrant bars, and enchanting art spaces - carefully tucked away in unassuming lanes, behind unobtrusive doors, or atop timeworn stairways. Unravel Melbourne's best-kept secrets with a Hidden Secrets Tour, an excursion curated to showcase the city's unconventional creativity, distinctive charm, and unforeseen discoveries.
The tour offers a variety of themes, weaving through Melbourne’s hidden lanes and historical arcades, art and architectural wonders to meal spots that would delight even the most discerning foodie. A noteworthy element of this tour company is their enthusiastic guides, individuals profoundly smitten with their hometown, which is not surprising considering Melbourne's beauty and allure. Ensuring comfort's key on these tours, opt for comfy footwear. For more details on tour schedules, costs, and reservations, visit the website.
11. Find refuge in radiant gardens
The bewitching grandeur and pure alluring nature of Melbourne's green jewel, The Royal Botanic Gardens, has few equals in the realm of horticulture. It's an indispensable Melbourne highlight that deserves a portion of your itinerary.
Embark on a miniature global journey through its diverse eco-systems, relish an afternoon sprawled on its vast lawns engrossed in your favorite novel, or indulge in an educational exploit with one of the garden's special themed tours, several of which come with no charge at all.
If you arrive without a prepared alfresco lunch, make your way to the renowned Jardin Tan, a unique dining experience where dishes are flavored with the fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisines and are crafted from what's harvested in the café's own verdant plots," as per Bonneto's advice.
Experience the beauty of Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens.
When the summer heat is on, one of the city's most delightful experiences is partaking in an outdoor film show at the renowned Moonlight Cinema.
No matter what season it is, it's always a good time to join the myriad of city denizens testing their endurance at the Tan: a converted horse-training track now buzzing with fitness enthusiasts drawn by its 4-kilometer scenic route.
12. Explore a coastline of variety
Behold the Mornington Peninsula, a magnificent stretch of land cosily attached to Melbourne. This iconic location is a summer hotspot, offering two distinct kinds of beach experiences: the calm, shallow waters perfect for family outings, and the wild, surfer-friendly back beaches.
Treat your taste buds by sipping on rich pinot noirs at boutique wineries such as Ten Minutes by Tractor, sample innovative wine flights at the Crittenden Wine Centre, delight in locally produced cheeses at Red Hill Cheese, or browse through a variety of fresh produce and artisan crafts at the monthly Red Hill Market.
The Mornington Peninsula boasts over 50 boutique cellar doors, and Red Hill Market is popular for more than 300 stalls of handmade products and homewares.
Victoria's Sorrento
Sorrento, a charming historic town in Victoria, is celebrated as the jewel in the crown. This quaint town has a rich ambience, generated by a fusion of sandstone structures hailing from the 19th century, niche boutiques radiating a Laura Ashley-esque feel, and elegant ladies engaged in erudite chatter about academia while enjoying a glass of chardonnay.
13. Melbourne: The Coffee Capital of Australia
Known for having the best coffee in Australia, Melbourne prides itself on its skilled baristas who consider coffee making as an art that deserves respect and precision. Enjoy the flavoursome brewed beverage at the renowned cafes such asPatricia Coffee Brewers, Market Lane Coffee, or Brother Baba Buden and experience the essence of Melbourne’s coffee culture firsthand.