Melbourne is a world-class city with something for everyone, from fun attractions to fab restaurants.
There’s something marvellously robust about Melbourne. Having survived the longest lockdown in the world, it’s ready to welcome back visitors in 2022. The city combines moody urban street vibes with an endless catalogue of sport, theatre and cultural events throughout the year. And we haven’t even mentioned the fabulous food scene. It has everything from high-end dining to diverse cuisines to a passionate love affair with all things coffee. This Australian destination definitely ticks all the foodie boxes! We’ve got the inside track on all the latest and coolest things to do for your Melbourne bucket list…
Best restaurants in Melbourne: Eat to your heart’s content
Starting at the high-end, you have the new and sophisticated Society Dining Room and Italian-inspired Florentino. Plus, the classical Vue de monde for fine dining with the best native Australian ingredients and those stunning Rialto Tower panoramic views. Let’s not forget The Farmers Daughter for unabashed quality.
Meanwhile, old world meets new at Gimlet, which celebrates European flavours and traditions. Next stop: located on the land of the Wurundjeri and Boonwurrung peoples is Big Esso by Mabu Mabu, bringing indigenous food and culture into the spotlight by the Yarra River.
We’re also big fans of the lively Arbory Afloat located right on the Yarra River for all-day Turkish eats, scrummy pizzas and bangin’ tunes till late. For Asian staples, you can’t go past the rambunctious and popular Thai-inspired Chin Chin on Flinders Lane for experimental dishes. Oh, and any chocolate lovers in the house? Join one of the two daily Chocoholic Tours around the streets of Melbourne to enjoy the sweeter side of the city.
Things to do in Melbourne: Play the day away
Full days can be spent just doodling around Southbank checking out the latest self-sustaining pop-up on Fed Square or cruising around the CBD laneways on a tour of famous street art and murals with Blender Studios. Continuing the cultural trip through Melbourne, head to the National Gallery of Victoria where there’s no shortage of ancient and modern artefacts to dive into. Or, check out the latest Gabrielle Chanel exhibition to knock off a morning.
Cruise over to the neighbouring Royal Botanic Gardens for a spot of high tea at the Terrace Tea Rooms. Next, a gondola ride at Ornamental Lake, complete with cute sun umbrellas to complete the #Insta vibe. There’s also an Aboriginal Heritage Walk for a truly enlightening botanic experience. For an epic adventure into digital art, pop by The Lume Melbourne.
Got sports on your mind? Make sure you check out the inner sanctum of the world-renowned MCG Tour for an informative 60-minute guided tour of the history of Australian cricket. And theatre buffs, we haven’t forgotten you. Melbourne has productions for every taste, from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to Frozen the Musical to Phantom of the Opera.
Outdoor activities in Melbourne: Road trippin’ on nature’s trail
If you’re looking to slip out of Melbourne’s big city lights for a night or two and embrace the great outdoors, swing by the newly launched and self-contained Sky Pods near Great Ocean Road. Sleep amongst the great Aussie wildlife in eco-friendly, solar-powered pods situated in the middle of an off-grid wildlife refuge. You’ll get up close with some of Australia’s iconic animals including koalas, kangaroos and wallabies.
Looking for the perfect spa getaway? Take a trip to an award-winning natural hot springs and day spa on Mornington Peninsula. Sitting just 90 minutes from the city centre, Peninsula Hot Springs offers weary travellers a range of natural thermal mineral waters to relax and rejuvenate.
Where to stay in Melbourne: Cool and groovy hotels
For the perfect combination of sleek, sustainable and stylish, look no further than Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne Southbank. Choose from 220 light-filled modern rooms and fully equipped apartments. Plus, enjoy facilities like the gym, indoor lap pool and meeting space with the comforts of a daily hotel cleaning service. Our money is on the two-bedroom apartment for your next family getaway! You’ll be gazing at those stunning city views and staying in a central location close to the bustle of Melbourne’s cultural heartland.
For solo travellers, couples and party groups, you can’t go wrong with the freshly launched Quincy Hotel Melbourne on Flinders Lane. It serves up all the tastes and treats of Singapore from three zingy dining options: Salted Egg, The Q and SingSong. Also on Flinders Lane: the new W Melbourne. It’s caused quite the stir, oozing all types of designer cool with dining offerings like the mysterious and futuristic hidden bar, Curious. No doubt it’ll be an unforgettable stay!
Melbourne offers something for every traveller – no wonder it’s nicknamed the cultural capital of Australia. Our advice? Take advantage of what the city has to offer and book your trip soon!
