A First-Timer’s Guide to Melbourne!
Melbourne is a city that oozes creativity and cool. Whether you’re wandering its art-filled laneways, sipping cocktails on the river, or shopping in its historic arcades, this city has something for everyone. Here’s your go-to guide for an unforgettable first visit to Melbourne - packed with the things I loved most. Of course there’s so much more - after you go, comment where you fave spots were!
Things to See & Do
Wander the Yarra River Trail
Start your visit with a peaceful stroll along the Yarra River Trail. Follow the path through green spaces, past city skyscrapers, and enjoy the blend of nature and urban energy. Once you hit Southbank, stop for a coffee or simply people-watch along the bustling river promenade.
Float
Cocktails on the Water at Float
Yes, it’s a bar on a barge. Float on the Yarra River is the perfect place to pause with an afternoon cocktail and take in Melbourne’s skyline from a whole new perspective.
Street Art in ACDC Lane & Hosier Lan
You simply can’t visit Melbourne without exploring the laneways. Hosier Lane is an ever-changing outdoor art gallery of bold, political, and playful street art. Nearby, ACDC Lane offers a grungier, rock-n-roll vibe with hidden bars and eateries tucked among the murals.
Explore Fitzroy
A short tram ride from the CBD, Fitzroy is a creative, eclectic neighbourhood that’s full of character. Think indie boutiques, record stores, vintage treasures, buzzing brunch spots, and edgy art spaces. The vibe is relaxed, quirky, and full of colour - it’s one of my favourite spots to wander.
Chinatown & Little Bourke Street
For food, culture, and a touch of history, wander through Chinatown on Little Bourke Street. The area is a hive of energy with delicious eats and great shopping, including boutique arcades and side streets worth exploring.
Incredible street art at every turn
Laneway Love
Melbourne’s laneways are iconic, and not just for their street art. Some of the best boutique shopping, hidden cafes, and stylish bars are tucked away in laneways off Flinders Lane, Little Bourke Street, and Degraves Street.
Carlton Gardens
Just north of the city, Carlton Gardens is a beautiful green escape. Wide open lawns, grand trees, ornamental lakes, and fountains surround the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum. It’s a peaceful place for a walk or a moment of calm amidst city exploring and is close to Fitzroy if you want to combine with a visit there.
Where to Eat: My Top Picks
Melbourne’s food scene is next level. From Asian fusion to artisan pastries and Italian comfort food, there’s something for every craving.
Chin Chin (Flinders Lane)
Modern Asian fusion in a buzzing, vibrant atmosphere. One of the best restaurant experiences I’ve ever had - our waiter actually picked out all our food for us - it was incredible! I would definitely book in advance.
Ho Chi Mama (Little Bourke St & Richmond)
Incredible Vietnamese-inspired share plates, creative cocktails, and a fun, funky setting. There are locations in the city (Little Bourke Street) and Richmond.
Higher Ground
Higher Ground (Little Bourke Street)
A stunning industrial space perfect for breakfast or brunch. Great coffee, excellent food, and a beautiful interior.
Lune Croissanterie
The viral spot for croissants that people line up for around the block! Apparently they are to DO for… I wasn’t willing to wait, but if you’re up early, you might skip the line!
agathe patisserie (The ROYAL Arcade)
One of the best almond / choc croissants I’ve ever had! Also super popular at the South Melbourne Markets.
MACCARONI TRATTORIA
Higher Ground
My friend and I had a beautiful dinner here, Authentic Italian food which was excellent as was the service. A busy little hidden away spot on Manchester Lane.
brunetti
A Melbourne institution, and for good reason. An impressive selection of picture perfect cakes, pastries and desserts. They also do dinner here, which I haven’t tried - but can only guess based on the crowds it’s good!
Shopping Hotspots
Melbourne is one of the best cities to shop in - hands down. Whether you’re after luxury fashion, quirky gifts, or stylish homewares, the options are endless. There are lots of hidden spots in Melbourne because of the arcades and laneways, so it’s a good idea to look up where they are before you go.
Royal Arcade
Absolutely beautiful and one of Melbourne’s oldest arcades. Agathé Patisserie is a must-stop for authentic French pastries - perfectly flakey, buttery, and beautifully made. While you’re there, don’t miss Haigh’s Chocolates, one of Australia’s most beloved chocolatiers. Their handmade chocolates are seriously to die for. The rest of the time, just admire the floors and the ceilings!!
The Block Arcade
A heritage-listed arcade full of charm, boutique shops, and elegant little eateries. A Melbourne icon.
Flinders Lane & Surrounding Laneways
The laneways and arcades around Flinders Lane, Little Collins, and Little Bourke Street are where you’ll find the coolest little stores - clothing, art, books, and more.
Emporium & Melbourne Central
These neighbouring shopping centres cover everything - Emporium for higher-end fashion and brands, and Melbourne Central for everyday faves. Just across the causeway from one another.
H&M at the GPO
This has to be the most beautiful H&M in the world - housed in Melbourne’s grand old General Post Office building. It was big but well set out, found some goodies!
Fitzroy
If you love vintage, second-hand fashion, and indie designers, you’ll love Brunswick Street and Smith Street in Fitzroy.
Where to Stay
Location is everything in Melbourne. I recommend staying close to Flinders Lane or the East End laneways so you’re walking distance from the best of the city.
Ovolo Laneways
QT Melbourne
Boutique style, quirky and luxurious. Rooftop bar is a bonus!
Ovolo Laneways
Funky and modern, tucked right into Melbourne’s famed laneway culture. Loved staying here.
Final Thoughts
Melbourne is a city that truly reveals itself the more you explore - through its alleyways, its food, its green spaces, and the energy of its neighbourhoods. It’s BUSY, super cool and never boring. If you’re visiting for the first time, prepare to walk a lot, eat even more, and fall in love with the city’s blend of urban sophistication and creativity.
J xx
