After starting our Australian adventure in Perth, our next stop was Melbourne! This vibrant city is the capital of Victoria and the second-largest in Australia. But for us, it became something even more special—the coffee capital of the world. Seriously, the coffee here is next level. Locals are incredibly proud of their brew, and they have every right to be. The coffee culture in Melbourne is unlike anything we’ve experienced and might just be the best in the Western world.
Another standout feature of Melbourne is its warm and friendly locals. Sure, they might not be as laid-back as the folks in Perth, but for a bustling metropolis, their kindness really stands out. Compared to other big cities, Melbourne just has this welcoming vibe that pulls you in.
So, ready to explore Melbourne with us? Let’s go!
How to Get to Melbourne
Melbourne is one of Australia’s most iconic cities and a major entry point to the country, alongside Sydney. If you’re arriving from overseas, Melbourne could very well be your first stop in Australia.
In our case, we traveled to Melbourne from Perth, opting to fly since renting a car wasn’t part of our plan. The flight took about 3.5 hours and cost us $250 USD. This is where you really get a sense of Australia’s vastness—during the flight, we crossed three time zones!
Here’s a revised version for clarity and an engaging tone:
Where to Stay in Melbourne
Melbourne offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget, from affordable hostels to luxurious hotels. As with Perth, I’d recommend choosing a hotel over Airbnb. Hotels here often come with the convenience of kitchenettes, washing machines, and free cleaning services—all included in the price.
We opted for a mid-range hotel that checked all the boxes: great amenities, a convenient location, and a reasonable price. It’s called Brady Hotels Jones Lane, and it provided everything we needed for a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.
What to Do in Melbourne
1. The Great Ocean Road and the 12 Apostles
Driving along the Great Ocean Road was a bucket-list experience for us, and for good reason—this scenic route is truly one of a kind. However, since we were hesitant about driving on the left side of the road (not to mention the route’s popularity among tourists), we opted for a guided tour instead.
While taking a tour does mean less flexibility and limited coverage of the entire route, it guarantees you’ll see the key highlights—like the breathtaking 12 Apostles. To make the most of it, we booked a reverse tour. This clever option allows you to visit each major spot before the main crowds arrive, giving you a more peaceful experience.
Although I won’t recommend the exact tour we took due to some dissatisfaction with the guide, there are plenty of reverse tour options available on platforms like GetYourGuide.
PRO TIP
If your tour stops at the chocolate factory along the way, stock up on as much chocolate as you can. It’s that good—we regretted not buying more!
2. Hiking in Wilsons Promontory National Park
No trip is complete for us without at least one or two hikes, and Melbourne was no exception. While hiking options are a bit limited if you don’t have a car, we found an incredible solution: booking a hiking tour in Wilsons Promontory National Park.
Unlike the Great Ocean Road tour, which had its ups and downs, this experience was flawless—and I’m more than happy to share the tour link: Wilsons Promontory Small-Group Day Tour.
The hike itself is quite easy, but the views? Absolutely stunning. We were blown away by the natural beauty, from lush landscapes to some of the most pristine beaches we’ve seen in Australia. One highlight was visiting a secluded beach where we were the only ones there—a truly magical experience.
3. Royal Botanic Gardens
Spend a relaxing day at the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Melbourne. The gardens are vast and tranquil, offering the perfect setting for a leisurely picnic or a calming stroll. We grabbed some takeaway croissants and basked in the amazing weather while surrounded by lush greenery.
4. Queen Victoria Market
Take a stroll through the bustling Queen Victoria Market, home to countless stalls offering everything from fresh fish, meat, and vegetables to unique souvenirs. While the market is great for browsing and soaking in the local vibe, it might not be the best spot if you’re looking for a memorable meal—Melbourne has plenty of other fantastic food options to explore.
5. State Library
The State Library of Victoria is one of the most stunning libraries we’ve ever visited. Entry is completely free, and the building itself is an architectural gem. If, like us, you need to catch up on some work during your travels, this library is the perfect peaceful spot to stay productive.
6. Hosier Lane
Street art is an essential part of Melbourne’s cultural identity, and exploring it is a must! Hosier Lane is a vibrant hub where you can admire incredible murals and creative works from talented artists. To get a deeper understanding of the art and its stories, I highly recommend joining a walking tour that delves into the history and meaning behind the murals.
7. Shrine of Remembrance
Situated in the serene Kings Domain, the Shrine of Remembrance is a historic and solemn landmark originally built to honor the servicemen who fought in World War I. Over time, it has evolved into a memorial dedicated to all Australian men and women who have served in any conflict.
8. Flinders Street and Station
Flinders Street Station is one of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks and the oldest train station in Australia. Its striking architecture, built in the Edwardian Baroque style, makes it a must-see destination for visitors exploring the city.
9. National Gallery of Victoria
The National Gallery of Victoria is free to visit, making it a must-see, even for those who don’t typically explore museums. The gallery features a diverse collection of fascinating art, including the famous banana taped to the wall, interactive installations, and exhibits showcasing the evolution of art in Australia. It’s a captivating experience that offers something for everyone.
10. Café Hopping
As the city with some of the best coffee in the world, café hopping in Melbourne is an absolute must. The coffee culture here is unparalleled, and exploring the local cafés is a delightful experience. Here are a few of our favorite spots:
- Bakemono Bakers
Find it here - Monforte Viennoiserie
Find it here - The League of Honest Coffee
Find it here
Conclusion
After visiting Melbourne, I can confidently say that the city has a unique vibe—it’s artistic, modern, and wonderfully multicultural. While it didn’t surpass Perth as our favorite Australian city, Melbourne still left us with plenty of great memories and experiences.
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