10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Visiting Melbourne

Before heading to Melbourne, there are a few essentials to remember.

Pack layers for the city’s famous ‘four seasons in one day’ weather, and grab your Myki card for public transport – though you won’t need it in the Free Tram Zone.

Melbourne’s hidden laneways are home to some of its best-kept secrets, from top-notch coffee shops to vibrant street art.

Markets like Queen Victoria serve as local gathering spots, and the city’s beaches make great day trips.

With cultural events happening all year round and a restaurant scene that often requires bookings in advance, the more you explore, the better you’ll get to know Melbourne’s unique charm.

1. Pack For Four Seasons Daily

Melbourne’s weather is infamous for changing rapidly, often in a single day.

One moment, you could be basking in the sun; the next, you might be caught in a downpour.

This means you’ll need to be prepared for all four seasons—yes, in one day. The key to staying comfortable is mastering the art of layering your clothes.

Pack a mix of lightweight items and warmer layers that you can easily add or remove.

A waterproof jacket is essential to protect you from the unexpected rain, and comfortable walking shoes will keep your feet happy as you explore the city.

Don’t forget to toss a small umbrella in your bag, just in case.

Even during summer, it’s wise to have a light cardigan or sweater for those chilly moments.

Pack a thick winter coat to protect yourself from the cold winds in the winter months.

Choose versatile options for footwear that can handle sunny strolls and soggy streets.

A smart tip is to use packing cubes to organise your clothing by weight and season.

This will make it easier to grab what you need as Melbourne’s unpredictable weather shifts throughout the day.

2. Public Transport Requires Myki Cards

To get around Melbourne quickly, you’ll need a Myki card, the city’s reusable smart card for trains, trams, and buses.

You can purchase a Myki card for $6 from 7-Eleven stores and station ticket offices.

Once you have your card, add money before starting your journey.

Remember to tap on at the start of your trip and tap off when you reach your destination, except when travelling entirely within the Free Tram Zone.

If you’re using an Android phone, you can also opt for Mobile Myki through Google Wallet as a digital alternative, but unfortunately, iPhone users don’t have this option yet.

One important thing to note is that failing to touch off will charge your card a default maximum fare.

Remember, Myki cards aren’t refundable, so if you’re only visiting briefly, factor this cost into your travel budget.

The good news is that the cards work across Melbourne’s two main zones and even extend to regional Victoria, making exploring more of the area easy.

3. Free Tram Zone Exists

Melbourne’s Free Tram Zone is a fantastic way to explore the city’s central business district without worrying about transport costs.

The zone is marked by Spring Street, Flinders Street, La Trobe Street, and Spencer Street, with clear signage at each tram stop.

Tram announcements will also let you know when you’re leaving the free zone, so there’s no confusion.

When travelling exclusively within this area, you don’t need a Myki card, making it ideal for exploring Melbourne’s iconic landmarks like Federation Square, Queen Victoria Market, and the State Library of Victoria.

The City Circle Tram is also free and offers a convenient and scenic way to visit key tourist spots throughout the city.

4. Hidden Laneways Hold Secret Treasures

Melbourne’s true magic unfolds beyond the free tram zone, hidden in its intricate network of laneways.

These narrow, often overlooked passages are full of character and surprises.

Union Lane, for example, is a canvas for vibrant street art, while nearby, you’ll find Manchester Press café – a hidden gem known for its exceptional bagels and coffee.

Artists are often spotted working on murals, so there’s always something new to discover.

The laneways are also home to some of Melbourne’s most beautiful and historic buildings.

Explore the Victorian-era splendour of Block Arcade or the Art Deco charm of the Nicholas Building.

Don’t miss the iconic Hosier Lane, famous for its ever-changing murals, or head up to Loop Roof for a rooftop sanctuary to enjoy cocktails while admiring panoramic city views.

Take a self-guided tour for a deeper dive into Melbourne’s hidden treasures.

With 1.6 kilometres of laneways and 40 arcades, you’ll come across unique spots like Lucy Folk’s distinctive jewellery store in Crossley Street or Tonka’s innovative Indian cuisine in Duckboard Place.

5. Coffee Culture Runs Deep

Melbourne’s coffee culture is more than a trend—it’s a deep-rooted part of the city’s heritage.

The story of the city’s love for coffee goes back to the 1880s when coffee palaces emerged as Melbourne’s social alternative to pubs.

Italian and Greek immigrants played a pivotal role in shaping the coffee scene, introducing European-style espresso after World War II.

Today, the city’s vibrant coffee culture is alive and well, with cafés scattered across every corner.

From Fitzroy’s leafy streets to the CBD’s bustling laneways, each café offers a unique experience.

Whether you’re after artisanal roasts or innovative brewing techniques like pour-over or siphon coffee, Melbourne’s dedicated baristas are constantly experimenting to bring out the best in every bean.

Tipping isn’t expected, but rounding up your bill is polite.

Remember, when you grab your next cup, you’re not just enjoying a drink but participating in a cultural tradition woven into Melbourne’s social fabric.

6. Book Popular Restaurants In Advance

As you explore Melbourne’s vibrant coffee scene, plan for your dining experiences.

Melbourne is home to some fantastic restaurants, but its most popular spots, like Gilson and Bentwood Fitzroy, often book up weeks in advance, particularly for weekend dining.

To secure your spot, consider using platforms like OpenTable, which connects you to over 7,000 restaurants, or First Table, where you can score 50% off early dinner bookings.

Dining during off-peak hours with First Table is a great way to try new places affordably.

For a taste of authentic Italian, don’t miss Cecconi’s Flinders Lane, or enjoy the flavours of Japan at Kuni’s.

For a genuine culinary adventure, venture beyond the city centre to neighbourhoods like Fitzroy or Carlton, where hidden gems await.

Don’t forget to use the filters on these platforms to tailor your search by cuisine, location, and price range, making finding the perfect spot for your Melbourne dining experience even easier.

7. Markets Are Local Social Hubs

When you step into one of Melbourne’s vibrant markets, you’ll quickly realise they’re not just places to shop – they’re social hubs where locals come together to share stories, food, and culture.

Each market has a unique character and lively community spirit, from the historic Queen Victoria Market to the artisan-focused Rose Street Market.

The Dandenong Market, operating since 1866, is a prime example of Melbourne’s multicultural soul. It celebrates diversity through exotic spices and international flavours.

Most of these markets are easily accessible, with plenty of public transport options and extended trading hours.

Whether browsing handmade crafts at St. Kilda’s Esplanade Market or sampling gourmet treats at South Melbourne Market, you’ll join in on a beloved local tradition.

For a truly immersive experience, visit the Red Hill Community Market, where over 300 stalls showcase Melbourne’s diversity and vibrant community spirit.

These markets offer more than shopping—they’re an opportunity to connect with locals and experience authentic Melbourne culture firsthand.

8. Beach Life Beyond City Center

Beyond Melbourne’s bustling city centre lies a stunning stretch of beaches, each offering its slice of paradise.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Melbourne’s beaches have something for everyone.

St Kilda Beach is perfect for those who love surfing and sailing, while Brighton Beach is famous for its 80 colourful beach cottages that make for great photo opportunities.

If you’re travelling with young children, Elwood Beach’s calm waters provide a safe and enjoyable spot for swimming and family picnics.

These beaches are easily accessible by public transport, with St. Kilda and Brighton connected by convenient train services.

Each beach has unique attractions, from the iconic Luna Park and penguin-watching pier at St. Kilda to the volleyball courts and playground facilities at South Melbourne Beach.

For a quieter, more peaceful experience, head to Sandringham Beach, known for its laid-back atmosphere, or visit Williamstown Beach to enjoy fishing and spectacular views across Port Phillip Bay.

For those keen on water sports, Port Melbourne Beach offers extensive white sand areas ideal for paddleboarding and kitesurfing.

Whether you want to get active or unwind, Melbourne’s beaches provide the perfect escape.

9. Street Art Changes Regularly

Melbourne’s laneways are a living, breathing canvas, constantly changing the city’s street art scene.

No two visits are ever quite the same.

In bustling spots like Hosier Lane and AC/DC Lane, you might see incredible works of art one week, only to be replaced by fresh creations the next, as both local and international artists leave their mark.

The variety of street art is vast, ranging from towering aerosol murals to intricate stencils and even interactive installations that invite you to engage with them.

While the city officially sanctions some pieces, others appear mysteriously overnight, adding an element of surprise to the city’s creative landscape.

Over the past two decades, public perception of street art has shifted, with the once controversial form now celebrated as a legitimate art movement.

Due to the ever-evolving nature of Melbourne’s street art, you’ll spot something new each time you visit, especially in high-traffic areas.

So, keep your camera handy – a new masterpiece may cover that stunning portrait or clever paste-up you discover today on your next trip.

10. Cultural Events Happen Year Round

Melbourne’s cultural calendar is packed with events year-round, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening.

From the bustling March festivals, such as the Food and Wine Festival, Fashion Festival, and the beloved Moomba celebration, to the wintertime wonders like Lightscape at the Royal Botanic Gardens, the city’s cultural energy never slows down.

Throughout the year, you can immerse yourself in performing arts at the Victorian Arts Centre, where the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Australian Ballet regularly take the stage.

Melbourne’s museums and galleries, including the National Gallery of Victoria, offer many exhibitions showcasing local and international talent.

During the holiday season, the downtown area comes alive with special Saturday events between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

For a truly unique experience, don’t miss the RISING festival in winter or the atmospheric Firelight Festival in June, which illuminates the Docklands with captivating light displays.

Whether theatre, art, or music, Melbourne’s cultural events guarantee unforgettable experiences.

The Wrap-Up: Things to Consider When Visiting Melbourne

Melbourne is a city full of surprises, from unpredictable weather to vibrant street art and bustling markets.

There’s always something new, whether navigating the Free Tram Zone or exploring hidden laneways.

With events happening all year round and a restaurant scene that demands early bookings, Melbourne offers an experience unlike any other.

The more you explore, the more you’ll fall in love with the city’s unique charm.