From hidden bars and weekend brunch options to the top cultural venues, find the best ways to explore the charming Australian city of Melbourne
Australian trends are often first spotted in Melbourne. Known for the glorious street art, bustling laneways and buzzing coffee scene, the coastal capital of Victoria is filled with hip hangouts. Here are a few of our favourite haunts in Melbourne.
EAT
For Saturday brunch, try out Sir Charles in Fitzroy. While the menu changes seasonally, stand-out dishes include the salmon Benedict and the Korean fried chicken burger. At the South Melbourne Market, be sure to visit Oyster Bar by Aptus for some oysters, which are shucked right there on the spot. Melbourne is also home to one of the largest Greek communities in the world. Head to Tsindos to sample the legendary lamb cutlets that have been served there for decades. Finally, head to Fritz Gelato for Italian-style ice cream, sorbet and frozen yoghurt.
DRINK
Naked for Satan in Fitzroy has a great rooftop bar and terrace. They are known for the in-house vodka infusions – try the alpine chocolate or green apple and cherry versions. Manchuria Bar, a speakeasy hidden in the heart of Chinatown, is one of Melbourne’s best-kept secrets. Meanwhile, CQ Melbourne has something for everyone, with a cocktail bar downstairs, R&B room upstairs and a huge dance floor.
EXPLORE
Carlton Gardens is a beautiful park that’s great for having a picnic or for taking a stroll. You can also visit the Melbourne Museum nearby, with an IMAX cinema. This can all be found on the northern border of the gardens. Southbank, the city’s bustling waterfront hub, is worth a visit for its cultural venues. Head to the Malthouse Theatre and Melbourne Recital Centre, alongside the lively riverside promenade. If you’re looking to get out of the city, plan a wine tour of the Yarra Valley or take a drive down the Great Ocean Road.
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SHOP
For botanical-based skincare and haircare products, you can’t go wrong with homegrown brand Aesop. Queen Victoria Market turns up some one-of-a-kind treasures – from clothing and jewellery to handicrafts and souvenirs. We also suggest taking a trip to Gertrude Street in Fitzroy. It has a truly eclectic mix of small boutiques.
TIPS
The tram system is a great way to get around the city. The entire CBD is a Free Tram Zone, which makes it easy for tourists to move around. Those who prefer to explore Melbourne by bike can take advantage of Melbourne Bike Share, a public bicycle hire scheme.
View other useful insider’s guides.
Please check the establishments’ respective websites for opening hours as well as booking requirements before visiting, and remember to adhere to safe-distancing measures while out and about.
The information is accurate as of press time. For the latest travel advisory updates, please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website.
To learn more about Singapore Airlines flights to Melbourne, visit singaporeair.com. To join us in protecting the environment by offsetting your carbon emissions on your future flights, visit the following websites to learn more: carbonoffset.singaporeair.com.sg and carbonoffset.flyscoot.com=
This article was originally published in the December 2018 issue of SilverKris magazine with suggestions from Lexus Lian.
