48 hours in Melbourne

Although it was only a short trip in the wonderfully cosmopolitan Melbourne, I absolutely loved the place straight away. For me the best way to explore a city is to just keep walking, and walking, getting lost down lanes, discovering funky, unique cafes and shops along the way. Melbourne is the perfect place to do this. It has a fabulous hip, cool culture, famous for its weaving, hidden laneways and alleys that burst alive with some seriously impressive streetart splashed across its brick walls. You’ll struggle to pick which bustling cafe to enjoy your freshly roasted coffee in, amongst al fresco eateries, boutique shops and stylish bars.

Degraves street

Walk, eat…walk, eat! -For a great morning brekkie, Little Collins street, Chapel Street, Hardware Lane, Caledonian Lane and Degraves Street. (I adore Degraves Street, it’s the perfect place to get caffeinated and tuck in to a delicious breakfast while people watching in a cosy cafe). -South Bank – scenic walk along the river with shops and fancy restaurants to entice you. -Acland Street, St. Kilda – for lunch by the beach. -Johnston St and Brunswick St, Fitzroy – plenty of fabulous shops, bars and restaurants. Kind of underground-trendy in style. -Lygon St, Carlton – Same as the above but close to the city and more Italian food.

Degraves street

South Bank

See -Queen Victoria Market – a huge open-air market, an ideal visit for food lovers. -Flinders Street Station – Melbourne’s first railway station built in 1854 is a city landmark and popular meeting place. -Federation Square – Controversial due to the strikingly unique architecture makes this a must-see. -National Gallery and Museum – often hosts some interesting exhibits.

Rooftop Bar, Curtin House

Eat/Drink -Little Bourke Street – grown to become Melbourne’s Chinatown with an abundance of great asian eateries. -Tattersalls Lane – discover Section 8 down here which is a very cool, unique bar in a shipping container. -Croft Institute – venture down Croft Alley which will lead you to this intriguing bar with a science lab decor. -Curtin House – here you’ll find a rooftop bar in the heart of the city which has quite a spectacular setting for a beer or cocktail. There is also a rooftop cinema. You have to climb up a dozen flights of stairs but the view is worth it. There’s also a bar in the same building called Cookies that is very popular.