Melbourne is my favorite city in Australia. It has a hip, vibrant culture and tons of fabulous eating and shopping venues and is more relaxed than Sydney. Melbourne is on the southern coast and is the capital of the state of Victoria. Transportation makes this city so easy to get around in. The metro is fabulously efficient and has a free tram zone within the CBD, so you can easily access most of my things to do. Trains are also available to take you out of the city.

If you’re heading Down Under, be sure to read Australia: Know Before You Go! Here are my tips on what to do in Melbourne.

Myki Card

The first thing you’ll want to do is purchase a Myki card, available at 7-Elevens and all train stations, as well as many retail locations. This is your ticket to ride the Metro trams. Make sure to tap the card on the machine when you get on, and off of the tram! But, don’t worry about tapping while in the free tram zone!!!

City Circle Tram

If you don’t feel like navigating the Metro map and stations, Melbourne offers a free City Circle Tram with stops along the CBD. You can hop on and off all day and visit the sites you’d like to see.

Flinders Street Station

Flinders Street Station can be found at, you guessed it, Flinders Street. It’s a main train station in Melbourne, and the tram stop is just outside. This station is also on the free City Circle Tram route. The historic building is quite a sight in itself.

Brighton Beach

From Flinders Street Station, hop on a 20 minute train ride to Brighton Beach Railway Station. From there it’s a short walk to the beach made famous by its artistically painted bath houses. Sun worshippers will love this beach!

Queen Victoria Market

Foodies will be in heaven at this gem! Take tram routes 19, 58, 57, or 59 to Melbourne Central Station. Inside you’ll find butchers and fish mongers. Right next to the building is the largest open air market in Melbourne…in a word amazing! I love farmer’s markets and could spend all day strolling along the stalls. You’ll find fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as many local products and souvenirs to bring home!

Yarra River

Take a leisurely stroll along the Yarra River on one of the walkways. Stop by one of the many restaurants, cafes, or pubs for a pint along the way. Or, take a romantic Yarra River Seafood, Champagne and Sunset Cruise!

Shopping

Ha, bet you thought I’d leave this one out! Seriously? Shopping is king in my book. Head to Bourke Street Mall. You’ll find tons of shops and boutiques, as well as restaurants and pubs to spend several hours of retail therapy!

Head on down to Melbourne, it has the best vibe and is so much fun! Keep calm and travel on!

XOXO

Susie