Aioli everyone, we hope you have all been well. Last week, we had the pleasure of visiting the capital city of Victoria, Melbourne for the first time. Earlier in the year, we had a stopover in Melbourne but didn't leave the airport, so this visit was our official first time being outside and exploring all the city has to offer. Melbourne is such a vibrant city and while we didn't get to see it all in just the one week we were there, we were captivated by its rich blend of art, architecture, and cuisine. In this recap of our time in Melbourne, we share the highlights and insights that will help anyone planning a visit to discover this fantastic city.
A Taste of Melbourne's Culinary Scene
Melbourne's food scene is nothing short of extraordinary. There is an impressive range of flavours, and dining styles that can cater to all culinary preferences. During our culinary journey, we visited Queen Victoria Market, where you can find over 600 vendors offering everything from fresh produce to artisan cheeses. You can sample local specialties and the market’s lively atmosphere, brimming with locals and tourists, adds to the experience.

Next, you can venture into Chinatown, one of the oldest Chinatowns in the world. It is here, that you can dig into savoury dumplings and freshly made noodles while admiring the alleys lit by many a colourful neon signs. Studies suggest that Melbourne's Chinatown hosts approximately 40 restaurants, each offering a unique twist on Asian culinary classics.
Unmissable Melbourne Attractions
While the food was delightful, Melbourne also boasts must-see attractions.
A visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens can be pure bliss. Spanning an impressive 94 acres, the gardens feature over 50,000 individual plants, providing a lush escape from the urban rush. Strolling along the winding paths, it's hard not to appreciate the stunning interplay of greenery and the city skyline, especially during the golden hours of sunset.
Another standout was Federation Square, a cultural hub bustling with energy. With the local SBS broadcasting building in the background and just across the street from iconic Flinders Street Station, this area of Melbourne is always a hive of activity and history.
Not far from here, you can explore the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), where there is an impressive collection of diverse artworks. With over 75,000 pieces in its collection, the NGV houses everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary works, showcasing the artistic journey of humanity.
Exploring Melbourne’s Laneways
Melbourne's laneways are famous for their unique street art and vibrant ambience. One standout is Hosier Lane, a true treasure chest for art lovers, filled with ever-changing murals and graffiti. Strolling here, you can discover lots of hidden cafes and an array of local shops selling one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and just a short walk from here you can also visit ACDC Lane, which pays homage to the iconic Australian music rock group.
These laneways are also fantastic shopping destinations. There are a lot of vintage stores and artisan boutiques where you can pick up unique clothing items and handmade crafts that reflect the spirit of Melbourne.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions
If you have a vehicle, you can truly appreciate the beauty of Victoria, by taking a day trip down the Great Ocean Road, which stretches over 240 kilometers along towering cliffs and beautiful beaches. This scenic route is home to the iconic Twelve Apostles, where the rock formations rise dramatically from the Southern Ocean.
Another popular day trip is a drive to the Yarra Valley, renowned as Australia's top wine region. Tourists flock to this area, with over 80 wineries available for tastings. It is here you can enjoy sampling local wines, enjoy picturesque views of the vineyards and indulge in delicious cheese platters. An experience perfect for a leisurely afternoon in the sun.
Embracing Melbourne's Flora and Fauna
Melbourne impressively combines urban life with nature. At the Melbourne Zoo, they are committed to wildlife conservation. The zoo houses over 320 animal species, including a special exhibit showcasing Australian native wildlife such as koalas and kangaroos. Being able to witness these iconic animals here up close at the zoo can be both entertaining and enlightening, showing the importance of their conservation efforts.
The zoo collaborates with various wildlife organizations and contributes to global conservation efforts. The zoo can deepen your understanding of Australia’s diverse ecosystems.
Culture and Nightlife
As the sun sets, Melbourne bursts into life with an exciting nightlife scene. The city is filled with lots of stylish bars, casual pubs, and lively clubs. Wandering through the laneways after dark, there are many venues featuring live music and entertainment.
Especially coming into Christmas and the festive season there are a lot of decorations in particularly festive lights to check out and explore.
Shopping Adventures
There are lots of shopping options when it comes to shopping in Melbourne. You can spend a delightful afternoon shopping in Bourke Street Mall, which features a mix of both high-street retailers and local boutiques. At South Melbourne Market, where you can indulge in delicious snacks and discover handmade crafts.
Not to be missed, Chapel Street offers trendy boutiques and vintage shops, making it ideal for picking up chic fashion pieces to take home. The local shops provided an excellent opportunity to find special gifts and truly reflect Melbourne’s eclectic style.
Reflections on Our Time in Melbourne Recap Experience
Reflecting on our time in Melbourne, it has become clear that this city is filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Its diverse culinary offerings, stunning attractions, artistic laneways, and lively nightlife come together to form an unforgettable experience.
Melbourne caters to various interests, making it the ideal destination for solo travellers, couples, and families. If you're planning a visit, make sure to set aside time to explore some lesser-known spots, which give the city its unique charm.
Whether savouring delicious food, admiring breathtaking street art, or exploring natural beauty, Melbourne continually captivates visitors from around the globe. This city left a lasting impression on us, fueling our desire to return for another adventure!
For more photos and stories from our travels, please check out our Instagram account @_walkwithwilz_
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