Living in Melbourne as a Visitor: What to Know Before You Book

Melbourne is one of Australia’s most vibrant and attractive cities, attracting thousands of leisure and business travellers every year. The city has plenty to offer, ranging from incredible street art and top-notch cuisine to cultural landmarks a gorgeous riverfront.

Yet, before you live in Melbourne as a visitor, there are some things you should know before you book your stay. These cover multiple aspects like transportation, neighbourhood cultures and dining. Let us look at this brief guide below.

Things to Know Before You Book Your Stay in Melbourne

There are quite a few things to keep in mind before you book your trip to Melbourne. Living in the city is quite convenient, as you’ll find out, provided you are prepared in advance. Let us look at these crucial aspects below.

• Choose your accommodation wisely: Melbourne has several hotels across categories and traditional rentals. However, you will be better off with budget friendly serviced apartments in Melbourne if you want lower rates, flexible stays and more space. They ensure a combination of home-like comfort with hotel-style services, complete with self-catering and on-site laundry (for higher savings).
• Note the Free Tram Zone for more convenience: The CBD in Melbourne has its own Free Tram Zone. You don’t have to pay as long as you begin and conclude your trip within the specific CBD grid.
• Get a Myki Card for other travel: If you are travelling outside the CBD, i.e. to destinations like Fitzroy or St Kilda, you will need a Myki Card. The Public Transport Victoria app can be downloaded for this purpose. It will help you manage your tickets and top up on the move, while planning the routes conveniently.
• Be aware of the Hook Turns: If you are renting a vehicle to drive around in Melbourne, be careful of the unique hook turns at particular intersections. They are designed to allow trams to pass seamlessly.
• Plan your meal bookings in advance: Know that Melbourne has a vibrant dining circuit and popular restaurants often have stringent seating policies. Weekend brunches here do not always take reservations. So, make sure you book your seats in advance for top restaurants across platforms like OpenTable Australia.
• Avoid the chain cafes if you can: The city’s charming café circuit includes numerous third-wave and independent cafes. You may consider bypassing the regular coffee chains and try the local favourites. Don’t miss the magic, which is an acclaimed local specialty.
• Plan for the weather: Melbourne is known for its sudden weather fluctuations. You should always have a wind-proof and light jacket, along with an umbrella. Keep them in hand even when you venture out on a sunny day.
• Early closures are standard: Unlike many global metropolitan cities, retail stores in Melbourne often follow a standard closure time (between 5 PM and 6 PM). However, some bigger shopping complexes and the CBD usually have extended hours till 9 PM on Fridays.
• Choose your location wisely: If it’s a short stay and you’re a first timer, consider the CBD for its walkability and proximity to multiple attractions. Collingwood or Fitzroy are suitable for a more bohemian and independent vibe, while St Kilda is ideal for beach and music lovers.
• Go beyond the city: Do not stay restricted to only Melbourne city; you can easily access the Great Ocean Road and the Yarra Valley winery circuit. There are options for day trips to the Dandenong Ranges and Phillip Island Penguin Parade.

Best Locations for Your Stay in Melbourne

Your choice of neighbourhood directly influences the quality of your stay. That’s where being aware of some of the city’s top localities is important.

1.   The City Centre (CBD) and Southbank:

This stretch is ideal if you’re a first-timer and if you want more convenience and walkability. The zone is dotted with high-rises and vibrant laneway cafes, along with top-notch shopping options.

Southbank is just across the Yarra River and offers premium dining experiences with fantastic skyline views. Some of the key attractions nearby include the Bourke Street Mall, Federation Square, Crown Casino complex and the Melbourne Skydeck.

2.   Fitzroy and Collingwood:

These are areas that are synonymous with vibrant nightlife and hipsters. At the same time, they are popular with creative professionals as well. The vibe here is often similar to Portland and Brooklyn. They are the coolest and oldest neighbourhoods in the city, dotted with street art and independent galleries.

You will also discover several vintage op stores in the area, along with well-known coffee joints like Proud Mary. Key landmarks here include Gertrude Street, Smith Street and Brunswick Street for the best shopping and dining experiences.

3.     St Kilda:

St Kilda is one of the most popular destinations for backpackers, beach lovers and nightlife enthusiasts. You will find this seaside area incredibly fascinating, only 6 kilometres south of the CBD (Central Business District). The bohemian vibe here is incredibly appealing, while the quintessential summer holiday vibe is also present. You can expect to find a bustling social circuit and palm-dotted beaches.

St Kilda Beach is also nearby for leisure, while the Acland Street cake shops are also accessible from the area. The Esplanade Hotel is also in the vicinity for you to explore.

4.   Carlton:

Carlton is worth considering if you are a serious foodie, history lover and want to visit the universities nearby. This area is often called the European hub of Melbourne and will wow you with its historic thoroughfares, leafy environment and top-class Italian dishes.

You will also find Lygon Street nearby for the best espresso and pasta. The Melbourne Museum and the Royal Exhibition Building are also short strolls away for visitors.

5.   South Yarra:

You will find several long and short-term rentals in this neighbourhood, with its upscale and fashionable vibe. It is a trendy suburb that is situated to the southeast of the CBD and houses multiple quaint cafes and boutiques. Chapel Street is nearby, offering high-end fashion, while other attractions in the vicinity include the Royal Botanic Gardens. The Yarra River is also easily accessible from the locality.

Choose your neighbourhood depending on your preferences. Book serviced apartments in advance and make sure you check out nearby transportation options for smoother commutes.