Explore the multi-faceted Australian city by the power of your feet
Priding itself on a multicultural population, the capital city of Victoria boasts a thriving culinary scene offering a melting pot of flavours and an an art-deco environment that’s second to none. With heritage buildings juxtaposed with modern architecture and a labyrinth of laneways and connecting arcades, Melbourne’s uniqueness is best taken in at street level. And the best way to do that is to put one step forward, start walking and soak it all in.
EXPLORE THE LANEWAYS
Melbourne’s laneways lie at the heart of the city and are made up off a maze of gothic lanes and cobblestoned pathways linked to several arcades. The sheer appeal of wandering the laneways is that you never know what hidden gems you might uncover. From tiny eateries, restaurants, hideaway places, quaint boutiques and bars as well as cafes, Melbourne’s laneways open up a wealth of surprises and possibilities for the curious traveller.
SOAK IN THE ART
A stroll through Melbourne is reminiscent of walking through an outdoor art gallery owing to the back alleys, walls and walkways that are lined and adorned with urban art and graffiti. Melbourne’s street art scene is bustling and prominent, and stands as an attraction in itself for visitors. The underpass that connects the Campbell Arcade and the Degraves Street Subway Station also doubles up a public art gallery and installation.
SAVOUR A CUPPA
Melbourne has been coffee mad since the 50s when reportedly the first espresso machine arrived in Victoria. Since then Melbournians have perfected the art of coffee making, which has made the city one of the best places in the world to enjoy a good ‘ol cup of Joe. The city’s vibrant coffee culture has given birth to a multitude of coffee shops and kiosks, all of which serve great-tasting coffees.
WALK THE SKYDECK
Opened in 2006, the Eureka Tower measures at nearly 300 metres with over 91 floors. The tower is also home to the Eureka Skydeck 88 (www.eurekaskydeck.com.au) the highest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere. Offering visitors a panoramic view of the city, the Eureka Skydeck 88 offers visitors a number of unique technological innovations that will make any visit an unforgettable one.
VISIT FEDERATION SQUARE
The cultural and art capital of Melbourne, Federation Square (www.fedsquare.com) is a building to marvel at in itself. Affectionately known as the city’s meeting place, the piazza houses the National Art Gallery of Victoria Australia as well as the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), which celebrates film, TV and digital culture. Fed Square also plays host to over 2000 events, exhibitions, performances and festivals each year and also boasts a wide variety of F&B outlets.
AFTERNOON TEA AT THE HOPETOUN
Situated in the Block Arcade on Collins Street, the Hopetoun Tea Room offers a charming setting and atmosphere reminiscent of the late 19th century. An institution for Melbournians and visitors, the tea room is decorated in décor typical of the time period and offers a wide selection of teas, as well as a wide selection of delectable and delicious sweet treats such as traditional cakes, pastries and teatime bites.
