Seven things to do and see in Melbourne, the host city of the first Formula 1 Grand Prix of 2025
Melbourne is one of the best places to visit, not only for the unique atmosphere at the Albert Park Circuit, but also because of its many attractions.
The city is a fusion of Europe, South East Asia and Australia (Indigenous communities) full of life and excitement.
Here, Travel News Blitz explores seven of the best things to do and see in Melbourne.
The Block Arcade
This grandiose late 19th century building is Melbourne’s most famous boutique shopping experience, from clothes to chocolate to art.
Admire the stunning architecture while window shopping, with its soaring glass canopy and the largest mosaic floor in the southern hemisphere.
National Gallery of Victoria
As the oldest gallery in Australia, the National Gallery of Victoria combines art from a variety of time periods, displaying more than 76,000 works in its beautiful building.
There’s always something new to explore, with the gallery hosting a variety of exhibitions, such as Kusama for Kids and Yayoi Kusama (her art style is known for lots of different coloured polka dots covering a room with sculptures and pieces of furniture).
Rice Paper Scissors
Come dine with your friends or family at this south east asian restaurant with bold street food-inspired dining, sharing all kinds of dishes.
Order all kinds of share platters from twice-cooked sticky pork belly to cured South Australian kingfish, partnered with signature cocktails, craft beers and curated wines.
Watch the Melbourne Grand Prix
Formula 1 takes over Albert Park every time it comes to Melbourne, with the famous Melbourne Walk, Pit Stop Park (kids area), M-Lane (live music, art and food), Legends Lane (vintage vehicles) and the Innovation Hub (technology display).
The Grand Prix on March 16 will be the first of the 2025 Formula 1 season (as well as Formula 2 and 3), boasting six rookie drivers, most importantly Jack Doohan who will be driving for Alpine at his home race.
Melbourne Central
This shopping mall is home to over 300 retailers on five levels with sportswear brands such as Adidas, Nike, JD Sports, New Balance and Under Armour (or LEGO if you wish to buy from their new Speed Champions F1 inspired collection).
If you’re not in the mood to shop there is also a cinema, bowling alley, an iconic Marionette Watch in Shot Tower Square and a modern addition of a glass cone.
Industry Beans Fitzroy
Melbourne is well known around the world for its great coffee, so make sure to check out Industry Beans Fitzroy, and perhaps take a bag of coffee beans back home to recreate your drink.
Besides their tasty coffee (as well as tea, juice and iced drinks), dishes vary from avocado on toast and overnight oats to burgers and salads, a perfect mix for brunch.
Melbourne Cricket Ground
If you wish to experience sports outside of F1, Melbourne Cricket Ground is the perfect sports arena to tour to learn all about the history and culture of sports in Melbourne.
The ‘G has hosted many sports such as rugby, football and cricket with the week of the Grand Prix hosting the AFL (Australian Football League) Premiership Season.
Honourable Mentions
Melbourne Museum: This modern museum shows Melbourne’s natural environment, cultures and history through different perspectives for the whole family to visit.
St Kilda Beach: Enjoy a stroll along the beach as walkers, joggers and rollerbladers race by, while kitesurfers, windsurfers and swimmers enjoy what the water has to offer.
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria: If you wish to escape the adrenaline and high speed of F1, visit this wonderful garden which is home to over 10,000 plant species from around the world, as well as sweeping lawns, tranquil lakes and majestic trees.
Summary
In Melbourne, travel around the city on the train, tram, bus or by foot to visit all these amazing places to experience what there is to offer Down Under.
Autumn will welcome you once you arrive in Melbourne, so don’t forget to pack some warmer clothing, with the average temperature ranging from 10.9 - 20.3°C.
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