Destination Melbourne: An F1 fan’s guide

As the second largest city in Australia, Melbourne is a fascinating location that is just as captivating on the tenth visit as it is on the first. It’s known as a multicultural melting pot, as the city is home to over 200 different nationalities.

From breathtaking beaches and lush parks to bustling markets and entertaining museums and galleries, Melbourne is a fantastic location to explore whilst in town for the Grand Prix. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning a return trip, this guide covers some essentials – from getting around and what to expect, to insider tips that will help you make the most of your stay.

Introduction to Melbourne

Population: 5.2 million (approx.)

Time Zone: UTC +11

Language: English

Currency: $AUD (Australian Dollars) – most places accept card payment

Power socket: Type I – if you’re travelling from overseas, don’t forget to bring your adapters

Weather: Prepare for four seasons in one day

The Australian Grand Prix takes place in March when temperatures in Melbourne can reach up to 24 degrees Celsius during the day, before dropping in the evenings. It’s not uncommon to experience rain showers either (remember the wet weather chaos in the 2025 season opener), so think about that when packing. Make sure you pack a raincoat as well as your sunscreen... just in case!

Attractions

Visit one of the many (free) museums and galleries

Melbourne is famous for its culture, boasting an impressive array of museums and galleries that are free to enter. It’s home to the famous National Gallery of Victoria, one of the most-visited galleries in the world. The Australian Centre for Contemporary Art, NGV International, and Seventh Gallery all host works of some of the most exciting artists in Australia and are totally free to visit.

Museums such as the Melbourne Museum and Australian Sports Museum are also well worth a look for a small entry fee. Don't forget about the F1 Exhibition this year either!

Take a street art tour

In addition to its many art galleries, Melbourne is a hub for street artists, with unique illustrations hidden around every corner. You could wander freely down these artistic lanes, but there is also the option to take tours that hit the best spots in the city.

Notable streets include AC/DC Lane with its tributes to rock and roll, the ever-changing canvas of Hosier Lane, and the views of Tattersalls Lane – home to many of Melbourne's favourite restaurants and bars.

Discover Aboriginal Melbourne

There are a host of activities dedicated to Melbourne’s Aboriginal background. Connect with Aboriginal culture and histories at the Koorie Heritage Trust, or take a walking tour to visit some of the historical sites, artefacts and monuments.

Peruse the Queen Victoria Market

With an array of adventurous small businesses, it's worth going for a wander around the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere. Whether you want an extravagant brunch, a coffee on the go, shopping or gifts for friends (or yourself), this vibrant market of unique small shops deserves a visit.

Take a trip to the coast

Melbourne has some stunning scenery just a short drive away – why not take a a couple hours to enjoy the beaches at Mount Martha, or the Great Ocean Road out west?

Food and drink

There’s plenty of excitement that comes with hosting a Grand Prix weekend, so make sure you take a moment to explore – including the fantastic food and drink options to fuel up over the weekend.

Restaurants galore

Melbourne boasts over 3,500 restaurants and caters to a whole host of different cuisines that suit all tastes. From its steak and Michelin star restaurants, to its seemingly endless brunch locations – and even crocodile bites – Melbourne is an exciting city for all foodies.

Brilliant brunches

Brunch isn’t just a meal but an event in Melbourne. The city possesses a whole host of spots with innovative menus to delight every palate. Head towards the Fitzroy area to find some trendy establishments that serve elaborate sweet and savoury concoctions that are as visually enjoyable as they are tasty.

Coffee connoisseurs

Coffee is deeply ingrained in Melbourne’s DNA, and you’ll struggle to find a local who thinks otherwise. It is one of the top importers of coffee beans worldwide, with dozens of cafes scattered around every square mile around the city – there’s a coffee spot to suit everyone.

If you are partial to an afternoon caffeine hit, make sure to do this before 3pm as this is when most cafes close. Perhaps order a ‘Magic’ from the menu, a double ristretto topped with steamed milk – a Melbourne special which was invented in the city.

Compelling Chinatown

Melbourne’s Chinatown is one of the oldest in the world, and the restaurants in the area showcase the rich diversity of Chinese cuisine – with many making shortlists for food critics’ top choices in the city. Make sure to book in advance, as they are high in demand.

Travelling around Melbourne

Public transport is the ideal way to get around during your time in Melbourne, especially over the Grand Prix weekend.

You can pick up a myki smartcard for easy and flexible travel across Melbourne’s large array of trains, trams and buses, whether you’re planning on hopping around for only a few hours or exploring all day.

The city is home to the world’s largest tram network and on weekends Melbourne’s Night Network keeps things moving around the clock, making it easy to travel long after dark.