Melbourne is the first city we visited in Australia and after exploring Japan it was quite a change. We only spend 3 days in Melbourne which was totally enough to get a feeling for the vibe of the city and visit the main attractions. Make sure you plan 3-4 days additionally to explore the famous Great Ocean Road close to Melbourne. We had so much fun dancing through the markets, enjoying strolls along the river and finding all the street art. And I think I don’t even have to mention the amazing vegan food in Fitzroy.
Top Things to Do in Melbourne
Visit Melbourne’s Markets
We went to one of the most famous markets the Queen Victoria Market and did some organic fruit shopping as well as snacked through the vegan options. There are lots of street festivals in Melbourne which makes it even more fun to stroll though the market and streets around. We learnt an Indian dance and had so much fun with all the dancers.
Explore Melbourne Laneway Icon at Degraves Street and Flinder Street
Just wander around the lane have a coffee and watch busy Aussie and tourists do their shopping and enjoy the wonderful architecture.
Get Lost in Street Art
Melbourne’s CBD district is full of impressive wall paintings. Wander around ACDC Lane, Croft Alley and Hosier Lane to see the best ones. We found some more nice art just walking the streets so keep your eyes open.
Watch the Sunset at St. Kilda Beach
Walking along the beach promenade is so relaxing. Bring some picnic or have a cocktail at the beach bars & cafes.
Have the Best Vegan Ice Cream in Town
Girls & Boys is the first completely vegan ice cream store we have ever visited and you can’t imagine how excited we both were. Entering the store I spotted all my favourite ice cream flavours which I couldn’t have for a long time. Beijing really does not have great vegan ice cream. If you are vegan or not make sure that you get your ice cream cravings fixed at Girls & Boys. The taste is just exactly like from a real Italian ice cream shop, but causes no harm to the environment. Enjoy your gelato!
Walk Along the Yarra River
The river runs through the Melbourne CBD area and is awesome for a picnic or just hanging out. With the tall office buildings in the back it is a very contrasty scenery. Also a great place for running, inline skating or biking
Spend an Afternoon in Fitzroy
Fitzroy is the hipster suburb of Melbourne with bohemian bars, restaurants and cafes. Walk along the streets, do second hand shopping and get lost in the vibe of Fitzroy. Around Brunswick Street you can find the best vegan restaurants. Our absolute favourite is Veggie Bar. The food is heaven and the prices are okay for Australia. We also loved Smith & Daughters, but be prepared these places are so hip that is is always super crowded. We were super thrilled to find complete vegan food and clothes stores. The street art also does not disappoint.
Walk up to the Shrine of Remembrance for Stunning views over Melbourne
This is the best free place to have a stunning views over the whole city. You can also learn some more about the Australia’s part in the world wars.
Plan 3-4 Days for the Famous Great Ocean Road
No visit to Melbourne is complete without renting a car to drive along the dramatic coastline of south-west Victoria. The highlight of the drive is watching the most stunning sunrise and sunset at the 12 Apostel’s. So stay somewhere close to it so you don’t need to get up even earlier. You can also spot wild Koala’s during your trip.
