Backpacking Melbourne Travel Guide (2023)

To celebrate Australia’s reopening to international travel, I have pulled together my definitive guide to backpacking in Melbourne (and even just travelling in Melbourne!)
COVID be gone, rules are being relaxed, international travel can now recommence, just be careful!

Be aware that as rules are regularly changing, bring a mask with you whenever you plan on being in contact with a humans – and for the love of God, if your barista asks you to put on a mask, put on a mask.

Everyone who has been to Melbourne or within 1000 miles of it says that it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Melbourne is actually the most fashionable and culturally significant city in Australia. I ate, I drank and I was revived as a huge footie fan at the MCG. My 7-month Australian sabbatical was a highlight of my time in Australia.

Backpacking in Melbourne, Australia can be a costly affair. It is very expensive to eat, drink, stay in hostels and all other things. You’ll soon run out of money if you get caught up in the Melbourne vortex.

This guide will cover everything from the “cheapest hostels Melbourne” to the “Melbourne daily cost”.

How Much does Backpacking Cost?

Melbourne is the most expensive city in one of Australia’s most expensive countries. For sometimes very basic accommodation, backpackers and residents will both pay exorbitant prices.

It is not uncommon to rent a room in a shared room for backpackers who are visiting Melbourne and the Rest of Australia while on a long-term visa.

Melbourne awaits.

However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit Melbourne on a tight budget. If you follow these tips, Melbourne can be affordable. You can afford Melbourne by limiting unnecessary spending and establishing good spending habits. This will allow you to have fun and make the most of your time.

The average daily budget in Melbourne is between $75 and $90. These numbers were once higher, but backpacking in Melbourne is now a lot more affordable due to Australia’s recent economic difficulties.

Even if you follow the strictest backpacker strategies like Couchsurfing and cooking at home, you can still make it work.

In Melbourne, the average hostel costs around $25 per night. This is a good deal considering the excellent reputation of Australia’s hostels.

Your expenses will be dominated by drinking, dining, and maybe a few shopping trips. Australia’s alcohol is expensive, and Australian food isn’t cheap. Even though Melbourne is one of the most expensive cities in the world, shopping there can be quite costly.

Melbourne Daily Budget Breakdown

Below is a breakdown of the costs of travel in Melbourne for the average backpacker.

• Hostel Dormitory:$20-$35
• Basic room for two:$140
• AirBnB/temp apartment:$140
• Average cost of public transport:$6-$10
• City-Airport transfer:$5-$20
• Sandwich:$10-$12
• Beer at a bar:$8
• Coffee:$4
• Bottle of wine from the market:$12
• Dinner for two:$50-$75

Melbourne Budget Backpacking Tips

You can save money in any way you want, and backpacking is one of them! You can live in Melbourne with good spending habits.

Here are some tips to backpack in Melbourne cheaply. These words of wisdom will help you to make your dollar go further.

• Never buy full-priced drinks at a bar. Buy booze from the store instead and enjoy a drink with friends at the hostel/their home/the park/anywhere else than the bar. It’s cheaper to buy store-bought wine than water occasionally!
• You should cook at home as much as you can. This is one of the best ways to save money for backpackers.
• You can take advantage of free public transport in Melbourne: With the City Circle Tram (Route 35) and the Free Tram Zone, backpackers can see the best sights of Melbourne without having to pay transport.
• Enjoy happy hour at a bar or cafe during quiet hours (from 4pm to 6pm). These deals are often quite affordable and popular among locals.
• Find a job: No matter if you are on a working holiday visa, there are many opportunities to work in Melbourne. In exchange for some labor, many hostels will offer you a bed free of charge.
• Bargain shop To buy vintage, visit one of the many Op-shops in Melbourne. Many are owned by individuals and use a bartering method. If you cannot afford to pay full price, don’t buy a product.
• Get free admission to many attractions in Melbourne. These attractions aren’t boring or dull.
• Save money every day by packing a water bottle

Why you should travel to Melbourne with a water bottle

Even the most beautiful beaches can be contaminated by plastics.

While you won’t be able to save the entire world in a day, it is possible to help solve the problem. You will see the extent of plastic pollution when you travel to remote areas of the globe. I hope that you feel more motivated to be a responsible tourist.

Where to Stay In Melbourne

The Village Melbourne

This amazing hostel is located at the CBD of Melbourne and is undoubtedly one of the most popular backpacking hostels in Melbourne.

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• Re-done
• Underground Nightclub

Australia is known for its incredible hostels. Melbourne boasts some of the best in Australia! You’ll find the ideal place for you in the City Center, St Kilda and all around the city.

Long-term residents often get discounts at many hostels. These discounts are often offered to backpackers who have a working holiday visa and stay in Australia for a long time.

It is possible to stay for longer periods at these hostels. Everyone knows each other well and the camaraderie can be amazing.

Others choose to live in apartments while on holiday. Due to Melbourne’s high cost of living, most backpackers cannot afford a shared bedroom. You can check the classifieds in your area, such as Gumtree or your hostel’s bulletin boards. Many backpackers start out in hostels and eventually move into their own home.

Another option is Melbourne’s incredible Airbnbs. These are usually less expensive than hotels and cost a fraction more than hostels. You can find a place all to yourself with a little bit of luck and research.

Couchsurfing is a great way to save money and reach potential hosts. Australians are a friendly bunch who love to host strangers. You should still observe all the rules and courtesies of staying with strangers.

Accommodation costs also depend on the location you are staying in Melbourne. You’ll find lower prices if you live further from the center of the city.

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Best Overall Hostel for Backpackers in Melbourne: The Village Melbourne

This hostel is located in the CBD of Melbourne and is a top-rated backpacking hostel. The Village Melbourne has been renovated and offers many backpacking amenities. These include well-designed dorms, a huge communal kitchen, super comfy chill-out areas and an activity center.

The Village Melbourne is a wonderful place to be. They have thought of everything in terms comfort and backpacker requirements.

Best Party Hostel in Melbourne: United Backpackers

The United Backpackers is the best hostel in Melbourne for partying! This hostel is centrally located in the CBD. It also offers many alcohol-related activities. Anyone looking to party should feel at ease in this hostel.

The basement has a pub that serves all your usual drinks and hosts game nights throughout the week. You won’t need to worry about living in an unclean sty.

Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Melbourne: Melbourne City Backpackers

Melbourne City Hostel offers a great way to meet fellow travelers and just relax on your own. There are also smaller dorms for 4 people and gender-specific dorms.

The hostel offers many social events for people who want to meet new people. We forgot to mention the complimentary breakfast. That’s a nice bonus.

Best Airbnb Melbourne: Perfectly Located Apartment with City Views

This fully furnished and equipped apartment is located just minutes from the CBD. It’s ideal for budget-minded travellers to Melbourne. The apartment comes with all the basics, including A/C, heating, and everything you need for cooking. Near the entrance is a Woolworths Supermarket.

Every traveller needs one thing. It is essential for every traveller.

What is the secret to backpacker-life’s success? SPOILERS! You’ll only have to click on the button to find out.

Top Things To Do In Melbourne

Melbourne is filled with incredible places and things to. You’d need to spend a lot of time in Melbourne to explore all the hotspots. We’ve compiled a list of our top attractions to help you make your decision.

1. Visit the wineries in the Yarra Valley

Visit Victoria’s top wine regions like Heathcote, near Bendigo, or the Yarra Valley to go wine tasting! It’s easy to drive to many wineries from Melbourne, making them great day trips.

2. Street art is everywhere!

Melbourne is home to some of the most amazing graffiti in the world. Wander through the many back alleys and laneways to find amazing pieces of street art.

Melbourne is home to some amazing street art.

3. Take a stroll down the lanes and get lost!

There’s more to the laneways than street art. Here are some hidden bars and cafes. A walk in one of the many laneways is a must-have on any backpacking trip to Melbourne.

4. Attend an AFL match

The Australian Rules Football is a crazy game for Melbournians. You can see the crazy game in action at Etihad Stadium or the MCG.

5. People watch at Flinders Station, Federation Square

Flinders Station, near Federation Square, are like the switches of the city. Everybody and everything moves through these hubs throughout the day. You can just relax and watch the world go by.

6. Visit the Shrine of Remembrance

The Shrine of Remembrance, aside from its beautiful neoclassical architecture and beauty, is Australia’s most significant memorial. For a stunning view, pay respects at the Shrine of Remembrance.

7. St Kilda Party

St Kilda is a great place to go backpacking in Melbourne! These are the top backpacker bars in Melbourne.

8. Shop till ya drop

Melbourne is known for its many shopping districts and streets. You can find anything you need, from stylish clothing to exotic paraphernalia and organic produce on one of these streets. The Queen’s Market, Hawthorn, and Melbourne Central Shopping Center are all great examples.

9. Discover Melbourne’s Outlying Neighborhoods

The CBD’s edges are home to some of Melbourne’s most desirable neighborhoods. For a different experience, visit Collingwood, Carlton and Brighton.

10. Enjoy the incredible cafe and bar culture

Melbourne is a great place to eat and drink, not just in Australia but all over the world. You can find almost any kind of food here, including Thai, French, Italian and French. You’ll be out drinking all night so make sure you have a large dinner!

Backpacking Melbourne 3 Day Itinerary

You need some inspiration? Here’s an sample itinerary to spend 3-4 days in Melbourne. This itinerary is perfect for those who only have a weekend to spend in Melbourne. It’s free to take a look at and you can even try it out for yourself.

Day 1: The CBD

Our first day of backpacking in Melbourne sees us visit all the main attractions. They are located in close proximity in the CBD (City Center) on our first day. You won’t have to walk far if you take the Free Tourist Tram that covers most of the area.

Flinders Street Station is where you start your day. This iconic Edwardian-era building, which was built in 1899, is the city’s main transportation hub. You can always return here, no matter where you are.

Make a short walk to Federation Square before you jump on the tram. The public space boasts a lot of abstract and ultra-modern architecture. It also offers stunning views of the skyline. The ACMI’s Screen World’s exhibit, which is among the best free activities in Melbourne, is also close by.

You should also check Hosier Lane, which is across from Federation. This is one of the best spots to see Melbourne’s famous street artwork.

You can take the Free Tourist Tram from here and travel counterclockwise. You’ll be moving in a circular motion and pass Cook’s Cottage, Fitzroy Gardens and Parliament House before reaching the Royal Exhibition Building. The ornate structure is a Melbourne landmark and the gardens are great for relaxing.

Get back on the tram and head west. You’ll pass the Queen Victoria Market, the State Library of Victoria and Flagstaff Gardens along the way. The final leg will take you back to Flinders Street Station once you arrive at the Etihad Stadium.

After you’ve completed the tram loop, make sure to walk around the CBD. These are the famous laneways of the city, where you will find amazing street art and cool cafes and bars. A great way to end the day is to grab a drink at any of the watering holes along AC/DC Lane or Centre Place.

Day 2: The Hoods

Day 2 of backpacking Melbourne takes us to the satellite areas north of the CBD. These are Carlton and Fitzroy, Collingwood and Hawthorn.

These neighborhoods lack big attractions, but they make up for it with charm. It is best to simply walk around these areas.

Carlton is our first stop, as it is the westernmost neighborhood. Carlton is the place where you will find the largest number of Italians in Melbourne. It has also been home to the most delicious coffee and Italian food. There is also a vibrant student population at the University of Melbourne.

Next, we move east to Fitzroy or Collingwood. These close-knit neighborhoods are where the hipsters live and play. These neighborhoods are home to a lot of street art, galleries, and live music.

These neighborhoods are home to some of Melbourne’s best nightlife, with cheap drinks and lively performances at night. The Hawthorn district is further south, and is one of Melbourne’s main shopping areas. You can find everything from haute fashion to bizarre bobbles here.

You can spend an entire shopping day in Hawthorne, if you are a devoted shopper. But for now, let’s make it a stopover.

The Richmond district is where you will end your day. You will find excellent shopping and many bars and cafes in this area. Richmond is home to many breweries.

Richmond’s most significant attraction is the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground). The MCG is the biggest stadium in the city. It is also the church of sports fans.

Day 3: The Beach

It is impossible to visit Melbourne without visiting the beach at least once. We will be heading south towards Southbank and South Yarra, St Kilda, and Brighton on our final day of backpacking through Melbourne. We’ll be able to see the city’s most striking buildings and its only (real!) beaches along this route.

We’ll be heading south from the CBD and stopping in Southbank to see some of Melbourne’s most iconic sights. As you walk, the Eureka Tower will dominate the skyline and the National Gallery of Victoria.

The Shrine of Remembrance is the most prominent landmark in the area. The Shrine is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and is dedicated to the Australian soldiers who fought in WWI. For stunning views of the city, make sure you climb up to the top.

We continue on to South Yarra, and St Kilda. South Yarra is a wealthy area of Melbourne that boasts some of the best bars in the city. Albert Park, which is nearby, is a more affordable attraction for backpackers.

St Kilda is Melbourne’s most popular beachside suburb. Many people compare the district to Sydney’s borough and call it “Little Sydney”.

There are many beachy attractions like Luna Park and Palais Theater. This area also hosts some of Melbourne’s most popular backpacker bars.

After our third day backpacking in Melbourne, we spent the afternoon in Brighton. These are the most beautiful and peaceful homes in the city.

It’s a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon, walking among these charming Victorian homes and mini-mansions. The famous, multicolored Brighton Bath Houses are a must-see.

Optional Day 4: The Yarra Valley

You can spend an extra day in Melbourne! Take the train to the Yarra Valley for wine tasting. These are some of Australia’s finest vintages and varietals, as well as beautiful countryside.

You can travel to Yarra via public transit by taking the train from Lilydale to Lilydale, then connecting with the 685 bus. The best way to travel around the Yarra Valley is by bicycle. There are many paths and none of them are difficult.

The Yarra wine is amazing. The most highly-respected grapes in the Yarra are sparkling and Chardonnays.

Off The Beaten Path in Melbourne

You want to get out of the city? I recommend renting a car to get out of the city and driving. You can either go to a beach community or to the rugged northern reaches. For a true taste of Victoria, go somewhere less visited by tourists.

Here are some suggestions for day trips from Melbourne.

Phillip Island

This idyllic island is a popular day trip from Melbourne. It has beautiful coastline and a penguin colony. Phillip Island is a great place to catch waves. The colony makes a short migration every night from the ocean to their nests on land at sunset.

Bendigo

Bendigo, located north of Melbourne, is a wealthy and small city. Bendigo, which has benefited from the great Australian Gold Rush is home to many elegant buildings that were built with royal and wealthy sensibilities.

A number of wineries are located around the city, which produce some great red wines. There are many music festivals here, including Groovin’ the Moo and the Bendigo Blues and Roots Festival.

Great Ocean Road

Perhaps the most well-known Victoria landmark is the Great Ocean Road, which is located outside of Melbourne. This section of stunning coastline is located southwest of Melbourne and is best known for its impressive cliffs, sea stacks, and breathtaking views.

This is one of the most popular roads in Victoria. We recommend renting a car to take a short trip along this route. You should see the Twelve Apostles, Loch Arch Gorge and Great Otway National Park. These are located north of the Great Ocean Road.

Grampians

The Grampians, a rugged part of the Great Dividing Range, are one of the most popular outdoor getaways close to Melbourne. Here, you can enjoy rock climbing and hiking. These adventurous activities are not the only thing that the Grampians offer. They also have some of the most well-preserved Aboriginal art anywhere in Australia.

Wilson’s Promontory National Park

The nation’s finest coastline is located at the southernmost tip, Victoria. These beaches, which include Norman Beach and Squeaky Beach, are exceptional. The latter is named after the sound it makes when you walk on the sand.

Some of Australia’s most loved creatures, such as wallabies and wombats, can be found at the Promontory. The best way to spend your time here is camping.

The Best Walks in Melbourne

These top 5 walks in Melbourne offer a great mix of urban hiking and nature.

Capital City Trail This 30km hike will take you past many Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks, including Southbank, MCG, Southbank and Docklands.

Bayside Coastal Art Trail A 17-km walk from Brighton to Beaumaris that includes over 90 interpretive signs. It’s informative and fascinating and offers great views of the coast and local art and culture.

Kokoda Memorial WalkThe Walk of 1000 Steps. This track, which runs 5km through the forest, is intended to recreate the conditions faced by Australian soldiers in Papua New Guinea. It also includes exposes and informative plaques.

Albert Park Lake One the most beautiful and largest parks in Melbourne. You can enjoy great views of the CBD from this location. There are also many recreational facilities.

Merri Creek Trail 21km bucolic track running along the Yarra River. It can be connected to the Capital City Trail or greater Yarra River Trail.

Melbourne Backpacking Tips and City Guide

Here are my top Melbourne travel tips. These include how to get around Melbourne, the best time to visit Melbourne and the best coffee culture.

Best time of year to visit Melbourne

Melbourne’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. Many Melbournians joke about how Melbourne can receive four seasons in one day. Are you missing the summer sun? Wait 5 minutes. Do you long for rain? Trust me, it’ll be back within 5 minutes.

Melbourne is blessed with a temperate climate, despite its chaotic behavior. There are four climates, extreme weather is rare. Depending on the activities you are interested, Melbourne can be enjoyed at any time of year.

The summers in Melbourne (December-February), are generally mild. It is still quite common to have rain in summer, even in torrential amounts. Melbourne can experience a heat wave of up to 3 days, which lasts between 2 and 3.

This time has seen flooding in the past. Prices will rise because summer is still Melbourne’s busiest season.

The winters (June to August) are mild but not too cold in Melbourne. It rains a lot and fog is common. The hills around the city are home to snow, while the CBD is largely unheard of. You can also go skiing in Alpine National Park if you visit Melbourne in winter.

Spring (September to November) and Fall (March to May) are the best times of year for Melbourne. The wettest season of the year is spring, and everything is lush. Autumn offers more variety with all types of weather. These seasons are great because tourists will start to disappear and prices will drop.

Get into and out of Melbourne

You have many options to get into and out of Melbourne via land, air, or sea.

There are many roads that lead to Melbourne, whether you’re driving by bus or in your own car. The A1 runs east to Sydney, and all the way up the South Pacific Coast. North there are many highways that lead to the Australian countryside and other major cities such as Sydney. The A1 runs west to Adelaide and South Australia. Along this route, you will find the famous Great Ocean Road.

All roads in Australia will be long and arduous because they are Australian. It takes 11 hours from Melbourne to Sydney, and 9 hours to Adelaide. The 11-hour drive to Sydney doesn’t take you on the scenic A1, but rather on the faster and more direct A/M41. Road trip across Australia is a great way to see Australia, but it’s not a quick one.

Many people who plan to backpack in Melbourne fly to the city. Avalon and Tullamarine are both served by multiple airlines, so ticket prices can sometimes be very affordable. Most international flights fly into Tullamarine, while domestic flights usually land at Avalon.

If you are flying into the country please be aware of local restrictions around the Coronavirus. At the time of writing, PCR Tests and negative tests from this are required to enter and leave the country.
We found a handy little COVID travel calculator which helps you calculate the window that you need to get your test completed. There are very strict rules around this and if you don’t get tested at the right time you may find that you are not allowed to fly.
More information on Melbourne’s entry/re-entry and quarantine requirements can be found on Smartraveller.gov.au

Victoria has a vast rail network with many operators that covers dozens of routes. All rail lines connect to Melbourne, the capital of the state. It should be easy to find your way back. For regional train travel in Victoria, check out

It is possible to take a ferry from the Bass Strait to Tasmania. It takes about 10 hours to complete the trip, and you will be dropped off in Davenport. The most basic seat is $100, but this is an amazing journey for those who love the sea.

You can book your tickets online instead of buying them at the station when you travel to Melbourne. It’s possible to book transportation in advance for most parts of Asia with 12Go. This can save you time and money.

How to Get Around Melbourne

Melbourne’s public transport system is fantastic and allows residents and visitors to travel around the city without any hassle. Backpackers in Melbourne will have no trouble getting around the city thanks to the numerous buses, trams and trains as well as other modes of transport.

The City Circle Tram Zone and the Free Tram Zone are both free for backpackers in Melbourne. These zones are home to many of Melbourne’s most popular attractions. You can also see the best of Melbourne from your own backyard without having to pay for a ride.

A myki card will be required if you are forced to pay for a ticket. On Melbournian public transport, paper tickets are no more available. A myki card can be purchased at most machines or stalls for $6 AUD ($4.50). Simply make sure that you have enough credit to charge your myki card at machines. Then tap the card to the reader when you enter public transport.

Myki rates range from 4.30 AUD ($3) to two hours, and 8.60AUD ($6.50 for a whole day within one zone. Melbourne is divided into multiple zones. If you want to cross one of these zones with public transport, you will have to pay a variable rate instead of a flat rate.

Once you are done with your card, it is not possible to sell or return it to the city. Drop it in a myki donation container located in the station or at your hostel.

Walking is the best and most cost-effective mode of transportation, and Melbourne is very pedestrian-friendly. Rent a bike to go backpacking in Melbourne. There are many bike lanes that you can use.

Long Distance Travel From Melbourne

Guess what guys? You are in Australia, so everything is quite far away.  You should be ready for long travel times if you plan to travel across the country.

You can catch a bus or train from Melbourne to Brisbane, Perth, and Darwin. These destinations will require travel times that are measured in days, not hours. These routes are home to some of Australia’s most memorable train rides, such as and the Ghan.

Long-distance travel to Australia is best done by flying. Prices have fallen because locals have grown to depend heavily on airline travel. You should fly to Australia unless you are road-tripping or have a lot of time.

You should consider a road trip to Australia if you have the time. This is the most popular way to see Australia. Road trips to Australia are unbeatable, whether you travel from Melbourne or Adelaide,

Safety in Melbourne

Australia is the most safe country in the world. You’re less likely to be the victim of a kangaroo beat than a stabbing, beating, or mugging. You’ll be quite safe backpacking in Melbourne if you remove the wilderness element.

Let’s face it, if you really want to get into trouble, you can just get drunk in any of the pubs. The odds of you getting into a fight are significantly higher at this point. Melbourne is a hotbed for hooliganism and bar fights.

If you are apprehended and you still remember the guide’s suggestions, calm down. They will sit you down and give you a break; worst case, you’ll be thrown in the drunk tank.

The trams of Melbourne can pose a danger to pedestrians who are not aware. The steel giants can travel at a surprising speed and are very large, which is something that the city council reminds Melbournians. When crossing tram tracks, make sure you look both ways.

Travel Insurance for Melbourne

It would be dangerous to travel without insurance so make sure you have good backpacker insurance before you embark on your adventure.

I’ve been using World Nomads for a while now, and have made several claims over the years. They are easy to use, very professional, and fairly affordable. You may be able to buy or renew a policy after you have started your trip. This is extremely convenient.

World Nomads is the only insurance company that I can trust.

While it is okay to sometimes get lost, it is also important not to get too confused. There are many people who want you to return home safely.

The Broke Backpacker only trusts one travel insurer… World Nomads

Get a quote for your insurance, or read our detailed review of World Nomads’ coverage. Then… Let the shenanigans start.

Melbourne Accommodation Travel Hacks

Sometimes, we all need to sleep in a hostel. Hostels are great places to meet fellow travelers or just have a place where you can do what you want at your own pace.

However, backpacker accommodation in Melbourne can be quite expensive. Once you know what the costs are, I’ll just say that they are quite high. Stay in a hostel for one night and then consider other options.

Couchsurf! Couchsurfing in Melbourne: This will eliminate your largest expense: Accommodation. Let me be transparent with you. Couchsurfing has never been more popular.

According to Couchsurfing hosts in Melbourne, they can receive 50+ requests per day! Despite not being able to count on Couchsurfing in Melbourne for my needs, I would give it a try. You should convey a convincing message without selling your soul or your body.

Get in touch with your backpacker network: You may know someone who has done backpacking before. Australians love backpacking! Before you start your Melbourne backpacking trip, it is a good idea to get out there and see if anyone you know has a friend who would be willing to host you for a night.

Although it may sound absurd, I have found this to be extremely helpful in Melbourne and other cities. My friend of a friend was an amazing host and we remain friends. You will end up with more money for beer and coffee if you find the right balance between a hostel and a free night.

Dining and Drinking in Melbourne

Melbourne is a top gastronomic destination in the world. It’s also the best place to grab food in Australia. It is home to some of Australia’s best Asian cuisine, as well as some of the finest international cuisine.

Backpackers in Melbourne should make sure to budget some time for dining out when they are there.

There are numerous cafes and bars that offer a quick respite for thirsty travellers all over the city. Melbourne’s coffee (and Australia in general) is of high quality due to its prominent Italian immigrant population.

There are many places in Melbourne where you can find delicious food and drink. However, the CBD has the best selection. Here’s a quick overview of the most common types of Melbourne food and where you can find them.

Australia everywhere

Chinese: Chinatown is a predominantly Cantonese language.

Thai: Almost everywhere.

Indonesian/Malay: CBD, Flemington, Southbank

Vietnamese: Richmond, Footscray

Japanese, CBD Collingwood – Lots of sushi and traditional Japanese kuni.

Italian: Carlton

Greek: Precinct/Greek

French, Collingwood, South Yarra

Turkish: CBD, St. Kilda

Lebanese/Arab Brunswick, Coburg

Indian CBD

African, Footscray and Fitzroy – mainly of the Ethiopian variety.

Jewish, St. Kilda (Caulfield)

Spanish: CBD, Fitzroy

These cuisines, and many others, are available for you to enjoy in Melbourne. Each one will impress you with its authenticity and high quality.

Nightlife Melbourne

Melbourne is the perfect place to party in Australia. The city is home to almost every kind of person: binge drinker and raver, as well as kickbacker and miscreant. Melbourne has everything you need to have a great time.

Melbournians are proud of their city’s nightlife. You won’t find anywhere else in Australia where you can stay up until 7am and drink all night. While Sydney did manage to establish a controversial 2 AM bar lockout, Melbourne abandoned the idea. It’s no wonder that everyone is making progress!

Every district in Melbourne has a unique after-hours experience. The CBD is known for its eclectic mix of bars located in both the lowest and highest towers.

You’ll find tiny speakeasy-like spots in this area of town. My favorite is Hell’s Kitchen. To soak up the views and sun after a wander through the alleyways, climb to a roof bar.

Southbank is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink by the lazy Yarra. There are plenty of beer halls around Southbank, including the Hophaus or Belgian Beer Cafe. This is a relaxed afternoon.

As a bohemian, the hipster areas of Fitzroy and Collingwood are cheaper, more relaxed and often full of musicians. For a cheap pint and live music, walk up and down Smith Street. There are many little cafes in the vicinity of Carlton that offer outdoor tables and chairs.

For a more upscale evening out, visit chique South Yarra or Prahran. You’ll need to dress up and be willing to spend lots to enjoy this part of town. One of the most extravagant bars in the area is The Emerson.

A trip to St. Kilda is a must for any party. This suburb on the beach is like a little Sydney within Melbourne. Although there is a lot to do, travelers will be made to feel at home in one of the many backpacker bars. Red Eye Bar.

Books to read while traveling in Melbourne

• The Mystery of the Hansom Cab A mystery novel about a murder victim discovered in a hansom taxi. The story explores Melbourne’s social stratification. One of Australia’s most loved novels.
• On The Beach Civilization is destroyed by a devastating nuclear World War III. A group of survivors hiding in South Australia receives a message from the Pacific Northwest of America. They set out to find life. This is one of the most important post-apocalyptic novels.
• Monkey Grip A mother struggles to raise her daughter, deal with her heroin-addicted husband, and live in Melbourne. This is a classic in Australian literature.
• The Slap is the novel that inspired the TV series of the same title. A suburban man hits a neighbor’s child for being disruptive at a barbecue. This incident causes shockwaves in the community and makes many question their beliefs.
• Lonely Planet Melbourne It is sometimes worth travelling with a guidebook. Lonely Planet has done a great job with Melbourne, despite their history of selling out and writing about locations they haven’t visited.

Be a responsible backpacker in Melbourne

Reduce your carbon footprint: Perhaps the most important thing you can do to help the planet is to ensure that you don’t contribute to the problem of plastic pollution all around the globe. Do not buy single-use water bottles. The plastic ends up in the ocean or in landfill. Instead, bring a tough water bottle.

You can watch A Plastic Ocean on Netflix. It will change the way you see the plastic problem in the world. You don’t have to believe it matters, so get off my fucking website.

You don’t need single-use plastic bags if you are a backpacker.

Keep in mind that animal products from many countries you will be traveling through won’t have been ethically raised and are not of the highest quality. Although I am a carnivore, when I travel, I eat only chicken. Mass-farming cows and other animals leads to rainforest destruction – which is clearly a serious problem.

You want more information? Need more guidance?

You will have plenty of opportunities to indulge in debauchery while backpacking in Melbourne. It is important to have fun, be a bit wild, and let loose at times, as the Aussies do. Every backpacking trip I’ve been on around the globe has included at least one morning where I woke up feeling like I had gone too far.

If you do certain things, you will be deemed a straight-up jackass. It is a common rookie backpacker error to be loud and disruptive in a small hostel at 3AM. You will be hated by everyone in the hostel if you wake them up.

While backpacking in Melbourne, or anywhere else, show respect to your fellow travellers and locals!