Weekend in Melbourne, Australia – A Pictorial

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We recently spent a weekend in Melbourne and want to share the highlights with you through this (mostly) picture-based story. Melbourne certainly has its own vibe and being one of Australia’s largest and most populated cities, there is something to do for everyone. 

Converted Warehouse Brunch

This red brick laneway feels like a small slice of calm even though it is only metres from traffic filled La Trobe and Elizabeth streets. The greenery from an eclectic mix of potted plants lining the laneway is a welcome change from the routinely grey city streets. Behind massive wooden doors of a former warehouse is Krimper Cafe. We were lucky that we were early enough to avoid the massive queue for Sunday brunch that we passed on our way out. Really good coffee and well-cooked eggs hit the spot.

Culture Hit at the NGV (National Gallery of Victoria)

The gallery building itself is worth a look for its cascading water features and stained glass ceiling event space. It would be easy to miss the large park-like space out the back of the gallery, but while we were in town, an amazingly colourful attraction was drawing the crowds to the shady tree-lined garden. I present to you the Temple of Boom, by Adam Newman and Kelvin Tsang.

Tram Travel

The tram network in Melbourne is Australia’s best. It is wide ranging and you never have to wait too long for the next one. It’s also very well utilised, so getting a seat is an achievement in peak hours. 

They criss-cross all over the city, and are free within Melbourne’s large central business district, which is great for heading back to your hotel after a tiring day of shopping.

Suss the Street Art

Melbourne promotes its street art as one of its ‘must see’ features. Hosier Lane is a popular stop for anyone looking to check out the work of those with spray can talents. There is a lot of trash mixed with the treasure in Hosier Lane, but art is subjective. 

We found amazing street art all over the city centre and beyond. We structured a day on hunting out impressive murals, using the tram network and stopping for a drink or a snack where the opportunities arose. It was a good way to find neighbourhood cafes and bars. Check out our favourites and follow #streetartmelbourne on Instagram for more inspiration. 

Unwind in a Wine Bar

I love libraries, and the way the shelves of Bijou were stacked to the ceiling with wines and other attractive bottles immediately had me feeling warm and fuzzy (before any consumption!). 

Only room for a few tables, and on one of the city’s single laned, one way streets (Little Collins Street), this place is more relaxing than many inner city alternatives. The staff were happy to help us with our wine choices; they will also make you a cocktail. Attractive charcuterie boards and other snacks can be chosen from the blackboard, a good reason for us to return. 

Evocative Exhibition

For something unique, and continuing with the street art theme, hubby had booked us tickets to the artist Rone’s ‘Time’ exhibition. The exhibition was held on level three of the Flinders Street Railway Station. 

Rone has created a moody atmosphere through the use of props and large murals. We were captivated by these impressive scenes. It was like walking through an abandoned building, where the inhabitants just stopped what they were doing and walked away forever. If you are intrigued by these pictures, check out more photos and read more about the Time exhibition in hubby’s recent post.

Dinner Indulgence

For something different, we caught a tram to Lygon Street. Brunswick East, and had a fabulous dinner at Rumi.

We kicked off with a cocktail: a Sultan’s Negroni for hubby and a Turkish Delight Martini for me. Both were delicious! I would return to Rumi just to have another one of those Turkish Delight Martinis.

We ordered a number of small and larger plates, and thoroughly enjoyed the tastes and textures of the middle east in a vibrant setting. Melt in the mouth slow cooked lamb shoulder was a standout. 

Melbourne is a great destination for a weekend break, all year round. For us, it is a 70-minute flight from home, so within easy reach without losing too much time to travelling. If you have the opportunity, book yourself a fabulous weekend away in this vibrant city.