Budget Melbourne

Description:

The free city circle tram is a hop on hop off service that runs every twelve minutes past tourist attractions from the old (Parliament House) to the new (Docklands prescient) within Melbourne's CBD. There is an audio description of attractions as people past them, offering a better understanding. The W-Class trams themselves are historic and culturally iconic to Melbourne derived from the 1920's era. They rattle and a quiet bumpy but that is all part of the experience. Many locals also choose to go on it as a cost effective way of getting around the city.

Description:

The Met is the major public transport body for Victoria. The staff at this shop will help with any public transport queries you have, tram, train or bus. They are also happy to help with general tourist enquiries. There are additional staffed booths at Flinders Street and Spencer Street train stations, and in the Royal Arcade (between Elizabeth and Swanston Streets).

Our Local Expert Says:

Even if books aren’t your bag, the State Library of Victoria is a cultural icon with stunning architecture not to be missed by any design guru.

Description:

Sitting proudly in the heart of Melbourne's Central Business District (CBD), the State Library of Victoria maintains a grandeur presence. Sprawling green lawn leads up to the grand example of 19th-century civic architecture, the mighty pillars and steps demanding a sense of knowledge and authority.

As the primary reference and research library in Victoria, the State Library is one of the oldest cultural institutions in Melbourne. With a focus on life-long learning, the State Library offers a wide range of educational lectures, seminars and exhibitions to keep the community engaged.

Don't fancy studying on your holiday? The design is worth the visit alone, the stunning La Trobe Reading Room will get you smarter by osmosis. The octagonal room houses balconies of journals, books and reference materials climbing the white walls to the glass ceiling.

Don't forget to pop into Mr Tulk Café on the La Trobe side of the building. This place makes books seem cool, and the café fare is so delectable locals come just for the coffee. Sleek and modern, the refurbished design bridges the gap between old and new, the massive arched windows permitting daylong sunshine to poor into the dark interior. read more

Description:

This is one of Australia's most exciting public art galleries, with a changing programme of exhibitions of Australian and international contemporary art, design, craft, architecture and new media. The gallery also hosts open lectures, forums, and performances which contribute to the lively discussion and experience of contemporary culture. Exhibitions this year include such areas as fashion photography, furniture design, architecture and pottery. You will find work by indigenous Australian artists, ethnic groups, and international cultural bodies. This gallery never fails to entertain and delight--well worth a visit. Admission is free. Advance notification of visits by large groups preferable. Talks by curators and artists can be arranged upon request.

Our Local Expert Says:

It might be small, but West Space has big ideas. The contemporary art inclined will revel in the grass roots operation of this artist run space. Turn up on Thursday nights for exhibition openings and free drinks before heading into Chinatown for some dumplings.

Description:

One of Melbourne's most prolific artist run initiatives, West Space exhibits challenging and innovative contemporary art on par with the Big Boys. Founded in 1993, West Space epitomises the throb of Melbourne's underground art scene, encouraging dialogue between the public and artists, and of course, free booze at exhibition openings.

Hidden in the Central Business District (CBD), West Space is well worth seeking out. The engaging program covers all things contemporary with collaborations that blur boundaries of traditional art practice.

Description:

Blindside is located inside the historically famous Nicholas building and provides a platform for contemporary artists to unleash their creativity. The studio also allows the artists to use the space at the venue for informal discussions and communication with fellow mates. Experimentation, innovation and freedom of expression are highly encouraged. The program mentors artists, writers, curators to explore their hidden talents. Read perspectives of your favorites in the studio's publications and stay in touch with their work through periodic exhibitions held at this studio.

Our Local Expert Says:

Where every night is action packed, Melbourne’s Chinatown is the best place to grab a cheap bite to eat when bar hopping in the CBD.

Description:

For something that's Chinese, there's nothing foreign about Melbourne's Chinatown.

Carving the centre of Melbourne's Central Business District (CBD) in the top end of Little Bourke Street, Chinatown is a bustle with restaurants, shops and a mixture of delicious aromas with at times, rather unsavoury wafts from back alleys. But we're talking Melbourne where smelly alleyways boast some of the coolest hole-in-the-wall bars, so best look for the giant dragon gates and jump on board the orient express.

Whether its Yum-Cha at the Shark Fin Inn or some Placenta face-cream from one of the many beauty shops, Chinatown is mostly hit up by Melbourne's hipsters for cheap and fast dumplings. David and Camy is an institution on Thursday nights for bright young things in tight denim, flannel and neon lipstick, fresh from the latest exhibition opening and hungry for some pork dumplings at below reasonable prices.

A maze of shops of things you didn't know you needed awaits and you'll feel strange air of shopper's delight and remorse when you leave with a giant cat shaped lamp under your arm.

Look up from street level windows of slightly depressed crayfish to reveal a plethora of karaoke joints... read more

Description:

This is the largest of Melbourne's four Shark Fin restaurants, renowned amongst both Asian and Western diners. Other locations are 50-52 Little Bourke Street, city; Keysborough; Burwood, and Crown Casino.

Our Local Expert Says:

Get a taste of the 'laneway' energy, with graffiti and garbage in equal doses, that is such a feature of Melbourne’s laneway nightlife. This happening little bar is tucked away in a nondescript laneway, but it is a great venue for sipping cocktails or dancing hard.

Description:

Tiny, unpretentious and a little bizarre, Meyer Place is short on pizazz and choice, but definitely not short on patrons, especially on Friday nights. One wood panelled wall, another purple, and another covered in burgundy shag pile! A group of architect friends opened this bar and it seems they could not agree about anything. Despite this, the intimate atmosphere makes it a good place to meet with friends. Not the venue for a hearty feed, or even a sophisticated drink (martinis? Maybe not). People come here rather for the conversation and quirkiness. Cheap prices and amenable service also add to the appeal.

Description:

Gaylord specializes in Southern Indian cuisine, including many vegetarian dishes. The slightly eccentric decor features a large ceramic jaguar, fake plants and permanent Christmas decorations. Gold and red flocked wallpaper, mirror tiles and a bizarre wall-mounted 1970s wagon wheel complete the look. Start with Vegetable Samosas or the Tandoori Mixed Platter. For main, try the Gaylord Special--succulent lamb with cheese, vegetables and nuts or hot Beef Vindaloo. Vegetable dishes include Aloo Matter Paneer (cottage cheese with potato and peas in tomato gravy), and Baigan Bharta (Tandoor-baked eggplant puree). Cool your palate with Kulfi ice cream.

Our Local Expert Says:

With three levels of accommodation available (Guesthouse, Townhouse and Budget) the charming boutique hotel (Guesthouse) offers old-world style and class. Only five minutes' walk from the City Centre, The Nunnery is ideal for upmarket backpackers and low-key business travelers. But behave yourself-it is said that the ghosts of strict matriarchs still patrol the rambling hallways!

Description:

This former boarding house which was once operated by nuns to house catholic ladies, is now one of the most popular hostels in the bohemian suburb of Fitzroy. Due to its incredible location, directly opposite the Carlton Gardens, Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum, it is also popular with tourists, who want to be in the thick of the action. There are two sections of the Nunnery, the budget area which has dorms and simple doubles on offer, and the guesthouse which resembles the standard of an elegant bed and breakfast. There is a comfy communal lounge room that is ideal for meeting other travelers on your stay.

Description:

Starting at Southbank, this 38 kilometre path shows you the best of Melbourne as it winds its way to the north-eastern suburb of Eltham. Following the meandering Yarra River through inner urban areas and parkland, you will see gardens, historic homes and schools, bushland and impressive city views. The surface is mainly asphalt, concrete or gravel, suitable for beginners to intermediate level cyclists. Of course you do not have to go the whole 38 kilometres. Every section of the path offers something to see and there are plenty of cafés and refreshment stops along the way.

Description:

Flowing through the heart of Melbourne is the Yarra River. Originally known as Birrarung or the river of mist to the city's Aboriginal inhabitants, the Yarra played a vital role in the development of the city. Today, it is lined with some of Melbourne's most popular attractions. A 10 minute stroll along its banks in the city centre will take you past the World Trade Centre, Exhibition Centre, Crown Casino Complex, the Aquarium, the Southgate Centre, Flinders Street train station, the ornate Princes Bridge and the Domain gardens. To the East of the city centre, the river is lined with grassy green parks with picnic areas and barbecues that are thronged on sunny weekends with locals and visitors.

Description:

Located only five kilometres from the city centre, this farm gives urban kids a real hands-on country experience. Cows, pigs, horses, chickens, lambs and even a donkey are all there large as life and just as smelly! It is a great opportunity to show your little ones where milk and eggs come from before they get to the supermarket shelves. Farm staff are happy to answer questions and will let children touch most of the animals. There is a kiosk or you can bring a picnic lunch.

Our Local Expert Says:

Learn to survive the harsh Australian outback and learn about Aboriginal culture and heritage. On Wednesdays during spring and summer a local Aboriginal elder takes one-hour tours identifying bush food at the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Description:

Established in 1846, Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens are magnificently landscaped and boast a superb collection of plants from around Australia and the world. Spend a few hours strolling around, observing the beautiful black swans and water birds. Alternatively, join a tour, such as the Aboriginal Heritage Walk or the Night Sky Experience (bookings required). There are special holiday and educational programs for children. Moonlight Cinema takes place nightly during summer. The Plant Craft Cottage sells unique handcrafts and the Observatory Café is great for light refreshments. The more formal Terrace Restaurant is ideal for corporate and private functions. Admission: Free.

Description:

Cookie is a funky spot to grab a pint and a bite to eat. There is a wide array of fancy bar food available, such as drunken prawns with garlic, grilled Thai sausage, taro dumplings, deep friend chicken drumettes with kaffir lime, mussels steamed in ginger, and lots more. In the evening (and a few pints later) feel free to break out the moves on the dance floor.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of the few eateries that is unlicensed but, through sheer authenticity and entertainment value, it isn't missed.

Description:

Unchanged for decades, Pellegrini's is a home-food and good-coffee stalwart. There's no menu to speak of, just a few daily dishes of home-style, soups, pasta and pizza.

Our Local Expert Says:

With three levels of accommodation available (Guesthouse, Townhouse and Budget) the charming boutique hotel (Guesthouse) offers old-world style and class. Only five minutes' walk from the City Centre, The Nunnery is ideal for upmarket backpackers and low-key business travelers. But behave yourself-it is said that the ghosts of strict matriarchs still patrol the rambling hallways!

Description:

This former boarding house which was once operated by nuns to house catholic ladies, is now one of the most popular hostels in the bohemian suburb of Fitzroy. Due to its incredible location, directly opposite the Carlton Gardens, Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum, it is also popular with tourists, who want to be in the thick of the action. There are two sections of the Nunnery, the budget area which has dorms and simple doubles on offer, and the guesthouse which resembles the standard of an elegant bed and breakfast. There is a comfy communal lounge room that is ideal for meeting other travelers on your stay.

Description:

St Kilda on a Sunday is a microcosm of Melbourne life in the summer: sunshine, coffee, friends, sports, the beach and shopping! Situated on The Esplanade above St Kilda's beach, this market is a great excuse for a stroll in the sunshine. The stalls are excellent and offer a wide variety of art and craft work, including cosmetics, toys, ornaments and clothing--all handmade by the stall holders and all with their own sense of individuality. The market is close to the continental cake shops of Acland Street and the cafes and restaurants of Fitzroy Street--making it a perfect Sunday outing.

Description:

Despite its rather insalubrious location behind Luna Park and opposite the Acland Street public toilets, Bala's is undeniably the most popular takeaway outlet in St Kilda if not all Melbourne. Bala's interior design is more non-existent than hard on the eye. Fast, Asian street food is what it is about, and patrons are not encouraged to hang around. Locals love the food and many survive on a weekly diet of Bala's either fresh or reheated. The quality varies from day to day, but the dishes remain consistent; yellow curry tofu and mushrooms, panang curry beef, pakoras.

Our Local Expert Says:

With its curious mix of wealthy hedonists, struggling artists and bohemian in-betweens, St Kilda has always had something different to the rest of Melbourne. Grotty backpackers mingle with sophisticated diners; street performers and kite boarders contort themselves on sand and water; poets and songwriters occupy the grassy flats beneath towering palms.

Description:

With its markets, funfairs and nightclubs, St. Kilda's actual beach is often overlooked. Just 20 minutes from the city by tram, it runs between the St. Kilda marina and the Royal Melbourne Yacht Club and is backed by parks and bike paths. It is a popular spot for a stroll, rollerblade or a sun-bake on a warm weekend, or to people watch, but swimming is somewhat less popular (not surprising so close to the city!) However, there is plenty more to keep you occupied. The historic St. Kilda pier is a favorite spot for a romantic evening stroll and the adjacent breakwater contains a small but growing colony of fairy penguins. And of course, the lively street life of Acland and Fitzroy Streets is just around the corner. The sand is raked daily by especially imported cleaning machines, and dogs are banned from the beach from Nov 1 to Apr 30, except for a small section north of the yacht club, where they are permitted year round.

Description:

Given a makeover and name change, this now funky establishment is definitely a crowd puller - and with good reason. Spread over two floors, it has a very relaxed feel, with numerous huge sofas to lounge in, invitingly dim lighting, a pool table, booze and music in the background. This place is also famous for its cheap pizzas. For something different, try their sweet pizzas. In line with its name, the décor has a playful feel, with many rooster figurines and paintings littered around the place.

Description:

Horse Bazaar is an eclectic mix of arty tastes, virtual decor, finest alcohol, light meals and music from every possible genre. The interiors reflect the tech-savvy culture, and video projection surface of 20m is a treat for the eyes. Check out the famed World's first Rear Projection Urinal(RPU) at Horse Bazaar. The relaxed and friendly ambiance make it an interesting spot for get-togethers. Apart from the bar, there is lots to please your senses.

Our Local Expert Says:

With three levels of accommodation available (Guesthouse, Townhouse and Budget) the charming boutique hotel (Guesthouse) offers old-world style and class. Only five minutes' walk from the City Centre, The Nunnery is ideal for upmarket backpackers and low-key business travelers. But behave yourself-it is said that the ghosts of strict matriarchs still patrol the rambling hallways!

Description:

This former boarding house which was once operated by nuns to house catholic ladies, is now one of the most popular hostels in the bohemian suburb of Fitzroy. Due to its incredible location, directly opposite the Carlton Gardens, Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum, it is also popular with tourists, who want to be in the thick of the action. There are two sections of the Nunnery, the budget area which has dorms and simple doubles on offer, and the guesthouse which resembles the standard of an elegant bed and breakfast. There is a comfy communal lounge room that is ideal for meeting other travelers on your stay.