The beaches may leave something to be desired in comparison to Sydney and the rest of the country, but what Melbourne lacks in beach beauty it makes up for in culture, vibe and food. The café and brunch scene here is unbeatable. Get familiar with the lingo because fraps are out and flat whites are in and footy games are the sporting event of choice. A city I called home for six months, Melbourne (pronounced Melbin for you Americans out there) holds a very special place in my heart.
Melbourne
Coming
When flying into Melbourne you’ll arrive at either Melbourne Airport (MEL) the main international airport or Avalon Airport (AVV) for Jetstar and AirAsia flights.
The best way to get to the Central Business District (CBD) is by taking Skybus. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the airport. It runs daily from 4:30 am to midnight leaving every 15 minutes. Prices vary depending on your destination as it also makes stopes in other parts of town. Prices range from $15 AUD to $24 AUD for a one way ticket with slight discounts for round trip tickets.
You can also take public transportation by buying a Myki card (Melbourne public transportation system) and taking the public bus. It will be cheaper but will take longer. Prices range from $4-$8 plus purchasing the Myki card.
You can also take the bus if you don’t mind long rides and it usually ends up being much cheaper than a flight. Take the overnight from Sydney and save yourself a night of accomodation. Find prices and schedules HERE.
The Best Coffee and Brunch Spots
Naked for Satan – Pintxos are some of my favorite ways to eat food. Self serve as many as you want and keep your toothpicks to tally up at the end. Come for the great prices and good food stay for the atmosphere and drink selection.
Eating
Sleeping
CBD for first timers is a good bet. I enjoyed spending time in South Bank on sunny days and Fitzroy and Carlton for food and bars.
Always check the What’s on Melbourne page for news, events and articles about the city
21 Best Things to do in Melbourne plus day trips
Great Ocean Road
Doing
Staying
3 – 4 days for the city and 1- 3 days for day trips
North to Sydney, west to Adelaide or fly down to Tasmania
For more general information on traveling Australia such as visas, money, Covid updates and more, visit my Australia travel page.
Going
