Last Updated on May 22, 2022 by snaphappytravel
City breaks are usually short and sweet, so it’s a good idea to know how to make the most of them. Here’s what to do in Melbourne, Australia, if you’re only there for a couple of days.
Go For Free Comedy At Spleen Bar
If you’re looking for some side-splitting entertainment, then make sure that you head on over to Spleen Bar for some free stand-up. The bar, at the top of Bourke, is totally unpretentious, but it has gained a reputation for itself over the last fifteen years for its quirky and, often, hilarious acts. Comedians who frequent the venue always have new material, and the quality is consistently high. What’s more, the drinks aren’t bad, either.
Try An All-Australian Hamburger
We tend to think of the USA as the hamburger capital of the world, but down under, they’re also big beef eaters. Of course, in a city the size of Melbourne, there are plenty of places you can go for burger patties, but one of the best is Easey’s joint down in Collingwood. It serves over-the-top burgers (and other snacks), designed to tickle your tastebuds in ways they’ve never been excited before.
What’s more, it’s one of those joints where it really doesn’t matter which burger you choose. They’re all good. There are even plant-based versions if you prefer how you feel after eating pea protein to regular beef.
Try Paddleboarding At Black Rock
If you haven’t quite got the hang of surfing yet but still want to have fun on the waves, then you might want to try your hand at paddleboarding at Black Rock. There are instructors and hiring shops at the venue, providing you with everything you need for a fun and rewarding experience.
While you’re there, be sure to check out HMVS Cerberus, the nearby 1870s battleship, scuttled nearly a century ago to provide shelter for the local yacht club.
Experience A Traditional Aussie Breakfast At Collingwood Children’s Farm
Collingwood Children’s Farm is a great place to take kids to milk cows, ride ponies and feed the chickens. However, it’s also popular among adults for its café, a venue that serves surprisingly hearty and delicious food. Chefs cook everything from scratch and source all their ingredients locally. Everything they pile on your plate is delicious, no matter what you order.
Buy Some Tailored Jeans
Melbourne is replete with clothes shops selling generic pants designed for the “average” person. For the most part, we put up with these options, but in Melbourne, you don’t have to. Today, there are several stores that will custom-make and tailor your jeans for you so that they fit perfectly.
Take Dejour Jeans, for instance. Custom-fitting costs around $50 to $60 Australian and can usually be done same-day. You go in the morning, get measured up, and then return in the evening to find your new, custom-made pair of jeans waiting for you. Just be warned, though: it can get rather busy. Be prepared to wait in line.
Watch Formula 1 Racing
Melbourne is home to the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix which takes over the city every March. The action takes place down at the Albert Park track, where superstar drivers duking it out for global supremacy.
There’s also plenty going on off the track as well, including brand activations, drinks, and food vendors looking to sell new concepts to an experimental international audience. Who knows, you might even find yourself rubbing shoulders with F1 champions.
Check Out Toff In Town
Toff in Town is one of Melbourne’s poshest and most celebrated bars. The venue features private booth bars, plus plenty of space for dancing. There’s also a red-curtained room that has played host to talent from far and wide, both Australian and international.
Those looking for a better view might want to head up the stairs to Toff in Town’s rooftop bar. Here, you can marvel at the sheer scale of the city, and its beautiful architecture.
Check Out An Australian Football Game
AFL has a different character from the American leagues. But no matter what’s going on on the pitch, you can still have a great time in the stands. Sit down, cozy up, and then order a hot doughnut and beer. Shout your head off, even if you don’t care who’s going to win, and generally let off steam.
Try A Parma
Lastly, you might want to try a parma, a rare local Australian delicacy.
Parmas are crispy chicken schnitzel, with slices of smoked ham, Napoli sauce, and topped with melted cheese. Usually, they come with a side salad and chips, but sometimes on their own.