A Day in Melbourne
A self-guided walking/tram tour
Dreaming of uncovering Melbourne’s unique charm and vibrant culture all in a single day? With its lively laneways, iconic trams, and rich history, this city is an adventure waiting at every street corner and tram stop. To truly capture the essence of Melbourne, a self-guided walking and tram tour offers a perfect journey into its culinary delights, artistic expressions, and distinct atmosphere.
Kick off your day with a delightful breakfast at Bower to Williamsburg, setting the stage for a memorable exploration. From the vibrant graffiti of Hosier Lane to the cosmopolitan buzz of Federation Square, Melbourne reveals a myriad of sights and sounds. As you travel along the 16 tram line, be enchanted by the seaside allure of St Kilda, the bustling South Melbourne Markets, and the soothing retreat of Sakura Day Spa.
This guide will lead you through Melbourne's hidden gems and vibrant locales, making it a standout destination. Slip on your most comfortable shoes, grab a Myki card, and let your day unfold as you discover Melbourne, one tram stop and city block at a time.
Quick itinerary
Breakfast at Bower to Williamsburg
https://www.bowerytowilliamsburg.com.au/
16 Oliver Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000Explore the graffiti in Hosier Lane
Wander through Federation Square to the tram stop
Catch the 16 tram to Jacka Bvd/Fitzroy St
Walk along the beach to the St Kilda Pier and up to the lighthouse
Catch the 96 tram to South Melbourne Market for lunch
Note: Markets open Wed and Friday-Sunday (8:00 am to 4:00 pm)
Additional options belowTime for a massage at Sakura Lounge - catch the 96 to Elizabeth St/Bourke St
NOTE: NEED TO BOOK AHEAD:
https://www.sakuralounge.com.au/home/
8/10 Warburton Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000Watch the sunset at Naked for Satan - catch the 96 to Johnston St/Brunswick St
https://nakedforsatan.com.au/
285 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065Head to Chinatown for some dumplings at Shanghai Village - catch the 96 to Russell St/Bourke St
https://shanghaivillage.com.au/
112 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000Finish the night where East meets West at the Berlin Bar
https://berlinbar.com.au/
Level 2/16 Corrs Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
Full itinerary
Breakfast at Bowery to Williamsburg
16 Oliver Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
Begin your day in Melbourne with a delightful breakfast at Bowery to Williamsburg. Nestled in an alleyway off Flinders Street, across from ACMI, this cozy café offers a slice of Williamsburg's hip vibe right in Melbourne. Known for its quintessential New York-style breakfast, Bowery to Williamsburg promises a unique start to your day.
As you step inside, you're greeted by a menu that champions simplicity and flavour. Must-tries include their signature smashed avocado toast and the rich, creamy flat white—an essential part of the Melbourne coffee experience.
I recommend a bagel for a lighter breakfast, the lox and potato Latkes for a medium-sized option, or if you’re feeling extra hungry, the chicken and waffles.
Walk to Hosier Lane
Once you have finished breakfast, head to Flinders Street and turn right, walk about 3 minutes up the road to Hosier Lane.
Hosier Lane is renowned for its vibrant street art and graffiti, reflecting Melbourne's reputation as Australia's cultural capital.
As you wander through the laneway, you'll be amazed by the ever-changing urban art, a testament to the city's blend of history and contemporary creativity. The artwork spans every corner, providing ample time to take photos and immerse yourself in this vibrant visual feast.
Head to the Federation Square tram stop
Once you've finished looking at the art, head across Flinders Street to Federation Square. Walk through the square to get to Flinders Street Station.
Federation Square is renowned for its distinctive architecture and vibrant atmosphere, serving as a cultural hub in the heart of the city centre. As you stroll through, you can enjoy the blend of history and modern art with plenty of time to soak in the cultural events and interactive exhibitions often on display.
If you haven’t got a Myki card yet, head into Flinders Street Station and purchase one there. If you have one, then head straight to the Federation Square tram stop.
The Federation Square tram stop is located on Swanston Street, situated between Flinders Station and Federation Square. For the next part, you want to be on the side where the trams are departing from the city, the side closest to Federation Square.
Head to St Kilda on the Tram
Taking the 16 tram to Jacka Bvd/Fitzroy St in Melbourne is an exciting adventure.
Tap your Myki on as you get on; if you don’t want to look like a tourist, don't tap it again when you get off. You don’t need to, you won’t save any money, the card knows.
Walk up to the St Kilda lighthouse
Once off the tram, straight ahead is St Kilda beach. Walk along the beah to the pier and take in the coastal air.
St Kilda Lighthouse, a beacon of Melbourne's coastal charm, offers an invigorating walk up for visitors seeking both a stroll and stunning vistas. This iconic lighthouse, nestled in St Kilda, serves as a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
South Melbourne Markets for Lunch
Once you are finished at the pier, turn right and head towards Luna Park; you can’t miss the roller coaster. If you want to walk along the beach, you will turn off the beach once you hit Donovan’s restaurant.
You want to head back towards the city, but get off at South Melbourne Station.
Cross the tram tracks and head up the stairs to the South Melbourne Market. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings, this market is a perfect spot for both locals and tourists alike.
Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a variety of delicious food options. From fresh seafood and gourmet burgers to artisan cheeses and exquisite pastries, there's something to tantalise every palate. Don’t miss the famed South Melbourne Market dim sims, a local favourite!
Here's some must-try food and drinks:
South Melbourne Dim Sims
Fresh Oysters at Aptus Seafood
Coffee at Padre’s
Paella at Simply Spanish
Crossiant at Agathe’s
After enjoying your meal, take some time to explore the variety of stalls offering unique goods, from homemade crafts to fresh produce. Whether you’re a foodie or simply exploring Melbourne’s cultural capital, South Melbourne Market provides an authentic taste of the city’s vibrant food scene.
Note: The South Melbourne Market is only open on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
In this case, I recommend staying on the tram till Spencer St/Bourke St and heading to Il Mercato Centrale Melbourne 546 Collins Street. The Eateries Melbourne location is the first outside of Italy, following the success of markets in Rome, Milan, and Turin.
Time for a Massage
NOTE: NEED TO BOOK AHEAD:
https://www.sakuralounge.com.au/home/
If you follow this guide, I would say around 3:30 pm, though it depends on when you start your day.
Begin your soothing journey by hopping back onto the 96 tram at Bourke Street and heading to Elizabeth Street. This is the stop in front of H&M in the Bourke Street Mall, and there is a statue of a coin purse outside the front.
Once you arrive, head up Elizabeth St past H&M to Little Bourke St. Cross Elizabeth St and head up a small hill and down an alley to Sakura Lounge. If you have more days in Melbourne, I would also recommend checking out Murmur Piano Bar for a fun sing-along in the same alleyway.
Sakura Day Spa is fabulous for an indulgent massage. This peaceful oasis provides a variety of massage therapies designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. Whether you opt for a deep tissue massage or a calming aromatherapy session, you’re promised a perfect escape from the urban hustle.
Consider these tips for an optimal experience:
Book in Advance: Ensure your preferred time by making a reservation.
Arrive Early: Allow yourself time to unwind in the serene surroundings before your session.
Communicate Needs: Inform the therapist about any specific preferences or areas of concern that you have.
Relaxation and revitalisation are guaranteed at Sakura Day Spa, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists eager to unwind while enjoying the culture capital's vibrant atmosphere.
Time for a drink at Naked for Satan
https://nakedforsatan.com.au/
285 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Now you are all relaxed, it’s time for a drink.
Hope back on the 96 where you got off, this time heading for the north (so on the same side you got off, in front of H&M and the purse).
Get off at Johnston St/Brunswick St stop, turn left after exiting, and you are at Naked for Satan. Go to the back of the restaurant and take the lift up to the rooftop bar.
While enjoying your drink, soak in the sunset over the Melbourne skyline. The rooftop setting offers an excellent vantage point, ideal for those seeking a moment of relaxation amidst their city adventures.
Dumpling time
https://shanghaivillage.com.au/
112 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hop on the 96 tram back into the city, so you will need to cross the street. Get off at Russell St/Bourke St and turn right onto Russell St and head up to Little Bourke St. Turn right onto Little Bourke St and walk about 3/4 up the block to Shanghai Village.
Treat yourself to a delicious dumpling experience at Shanghai Village. Melbourne's famed dumplings are the perfect way to explore the city's vibrant culinary scene. This spot is well-loved by locals and visitors alike for its mouth-watering selection of freshly made dumplings.
The must-try is the Xiao Long Bao - Soup-filled dumplings with savoury pork filling.
Finish up at the Berlin bar where East meets West
https://berlinbar.com.au/
Level 2/16 Corrs Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
Melbourne is renowned for its hidden bars, which can be a bit tricky to locate. Turn right outside of Shanghai Village and go past two alleyways, and then you will see Corrs Lane. If you reach Russell, you have gone too far; if you hit the exhibition, you have gone the wrong way. You have to go up some stairs to find the Berlin Bar.
The Berlin Bar offers a unique experience where East meets West. This eclectic venue is divided into two distinct sections—one representing the opulence of the West and the other capturing the raw, industrial vibe of the East. As you step inside, you'll be transported back to the Cold War era, complete with an imaginative cocktail menu that reflects this divided city.
The Berlin Bar is an ideal spot to finish off your day in Melbourne. With its immersive atmosphere and unique concept, it's more than just a place for a drink; it's a journey through the historical and cultural tapestry of Berlin. Whether you choose to unwind in the opulent West or the gritty East, the Berlin Bar offers an unforgettable experience.
