Melbourne City Guide
Plan your next trip to Melbourne with our guide to the best boutique hotels, restaurants, art galleries and more, as handpicked by residents of the city
Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital – home to a burgeoning live music scene ranging from alternative jazz to psych rock, thriving creative industries and many of Australia’s best street art and galleries. Add to that an innovative coffee scene, strong sporting pedigree and cutting-edge restaurants serving up unbeatable local produce, and it’s no surprise that Melbourne is one of the happiest cities in the world.
Hotels
A string of characterful new openings have enlivened the city’s existing accommodation options, bringing global brands and sophisticated indie boutiques to the table – all of which means overnighting in Melbourne has never been better.
Restaurants
Access to Victoria’s abundance of world-class food and wine ensures Melbourne is one of the best places in the world to dine. The city’s multicultural makeup also informs a diverse food culture that encompasses European, Asian and Middle Eastern influences.
"What's held me here ... is the city’s intriguing mix of confidence and self-doubt"
Michael Harden's My City personal essay
Museums & galleries
From national institutions to artist-run initiatives, independent craft studios to mural-clad neighbourhoods, Melbourne’s art scene is like no other.
Bars & nightlife
A constellation of historic corner pubs, stellar wine bars and killer live music venues means a night out in Melbourne is not one to forget.
Coffee shops and co-working
Long blacks, flat whites and piccolos are all the products of Melbourne’s innovative artisanal coffee scene. From independent roasters to contemporary coffee shops, these are the best places to grab a brew, and get your work done while you’re at it.
Shopping
Melbourne’s distinctive style can be traced in its boutiques, flagship stores and vintage shops, from Collingwood and Fitzroy to the CBD.
