What can I do in Melbourne during a 48-Hour stopover?
Second only to Sydney in terms of scale, Melbourne is an increasingly popular destination with tourists looking to experience the best of urban Australia. If you are planning a short city break or looking to make the most of a layover, you will no doubt be thinking to yourself what can I do in Melbourne in 48 hours? While planning an itinerary for such a brief spell can be daunting, there are plenty of exciting prospects in the Victoria state capital. Need some inspiration to help plan your short stay in Melbourne? Our handy guide outlines some of the most exciting attractions and experiences to look forward to when you visit Melbourne.
- Must visit attractions
- Head to the beach
- Best nightlife venues
- Dine out on local delicacies
- Where to Shop
Must visit attractions in Melbourne
Whether you are looking for the perfect backdrop for a selfie or simply want to take in the sights, there are no shortage of must-see landmarks in Melbourne. The central business district area of the city is home to some of the best architecture in Melbourne. Federation Square will provide a brilliant backdrop for a spectacular selfie. This central hub is also home to a variety of museums and laneway bars that are synonymous with the city. If you want to go upmarket, head to Southbank. Here you will find the Crown Casino complex, as well as a host of riverside dining venues. The Docklands area is another great place to spend an evening, with the Melbourne Star Wheel providing you with unrivalled views of the skyline and surrounding areas.
Head to the beach in Melbourne
If you want to take it easy during your stay in Melbourne, you will be glad to know this city offers some beautiful beaches and coastal waters. Port Phillip Bay which spreads to the east and west of the city hub offers extensive sandy stretches for sunbathers. You will also find more shaded areas where you can enjoy a picnic lunch as you take in the sights of the ocean. The surrounding coastal areas of the city are also host to beautiful promenades, with restaurants aplenty so you can enjoy fine dining with an incredible view. If you want to take to the water, schedule in some time for a visit to Brighton Beach or head on down to St Kilda. Here you will find a historic amusement park that will entertain visitors of all ages.
Best nightlife venues in Melbourne
No matter what day of the week you are in town, you will find plenty to keep you occupied, well into the early hours. Thanks to a 24-hour public transport system, Melbourne has a thriving nightlife scene. However, the weekend is when this city really comes into its own. Come Friday night, the city is abuzz with live music and entertainment. Melbourne has hosted some of the biggest names in music in recent years, with landmark venues like the Palais Theatre and the Tote still the place to go for incredible live music and shows. If clubbing and crowds aren’t your thing, you can head away from the city centre and seek out a more relaxed vibe in the surrounding areas of Collingwood and Fitzroy. These outlying areas are home to first class breweries and traditional pubs that cater to those looking to kick back and relax. If you want to stay sober during your stay in Melbourne, the local coffee culture provides you with the perfect alternative to a draught beer or cocktail. Thanks to its sizeable Italian population, Melbourne offers some of the best espresso bars and coffee houses in the country.
Dine out on local delicacies in Melbourne
Melbourne has long been a hub of multicultural cuisine. Some of the first immigrants to the city came from Italy and Greece, bringing with them a multitude of Mediterranean recipes that continue to influence the culinary scene to this day. If you are keen to savour some of the best Greek food outside of the Mediterranean, head to the Oakley district of the city. Here you will find established Greek eateries that have been serving happy diners for generations. Melbourne’s Carlton district is also worth seeking out if you are in the mood for freshly prepared pasta and Italian specialities, with the humble suburb informally known as Melbourne’s very own 'Little Italy'. Melbourne dining has also been heavily influenced by an influx of Asian immigrants over the years. If you are craving authentic Chinese recipes, Little Bourke Street is a must-visit destination. This corner of the city is populated by Chinese restaurants that accommodate all budgets and palates. The Richmond area of the city is another hub of Asian cuisine and has quickly become synonymous with Vietnamese eateries. If you are looking to dine a little a Melbournite then head to one of the many rated coffee houses in the city and sample the baristas brew, and maybe side it with some avocado on toast or a custard filled pastry, you can exercise off the calories later!
Where to Shop in Melbourne
Melbourne offers limitless shopping potential, with all the retail opportunities of any large city. The Royal Arcade is the historic home of all manner of boutiques and smaller gift shops, while the Myer Melbourne is one of the best department stores in the city. If you prefer to haggle for a bargain, visit the Queen Victoria Market and browse what’s on offer at hundreds of tiny shops and stalls. The Emporium Melbourne will definitely appeal to the serious shopper looking to stock up on designer labels and familiar brands. This modern shopping complex also houses many restaurants and cafes, where you can recharge your batteries with a spot of lunch or get a boost with a caffeine kick. If you want to return home with some truly unique souvenirs, the Rose Street Market in the Fitzroy district of the city is definitely worth investigating. Here you will discover an array of items from local designers, artists and craft enthusiasts.
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