In the state of Victoria, Australia, lies a true gem – the most wonderful and magical city of Melbourne. Not only is it the capital of Australia, but Melbourne is also well known for its delicious food, amazing fashion, and incredible nightlife. Melbourne nightlife is incredibly versatile and there is a little something for virtually every person who decides to visit. This is the reason we have taken it upon ourselves to come up with a list of different things that will stir your imagination and make you want to start exploring the city the moment the sun comes down.
Learn about the spooky side of Melbourne
Let’s be real for a second here: Melbourne is old, very old, and with a long history often comes a bunch of spooky stories and legends. The beginning of Australian colonization was actually the British Empire sending away their criminals and prisoners. Does it come as a surprise then to learn that many people believe there are parts of the city that are haunted? There are several Melbourne ghost tours that can leave you scared, or at least intrigued. Walking tours through the oldest parts of Melbourne will be great to visit, but even if you don’t see any vampires or ghosts, you are going to learn a lot about the history of the city.
Enjoy a rooftop movie
While rooftop bars are already becoming the norm, rooftop cinemas are just getting started. Because the virus has changed the rules significantly, watching movies in the open means you will be safe and be able to spend time in good company. Rooftop cinemas offer a wide variety of movies, so in addition to catching the latest blockbuster, you can also enjoy family favorites or good old classics. When the weather is nice and warm, you can enjoy a good movie while being surrounded by sparkling city lights and the stars above.
Get on the naughty list
Everyone has a wild side just waiting for the right moment to take over. While some might be happy visiting museums and restaurants, there are people craving a bit more unconventional time off. This is where Melbourne’s naughty side steps in and sweeps you off your feet. If you’re hoping to leave the city rich with experience of a more carnal kind, you can visit Melbourne brothels and feel like a king. Because the times have changed, you won’t have to go to shady parts of the city looking for red lanterns and whisper passwords to be allowed to enter. After spending time in a luxury brothel, you will bring home plenty of memories and a wild tale or two to share with your friends.
Explore the Queen Victoria market
Back in 1878 when Queen Victoria Market first opened, locals have been frequenting it for food, but also for socializing, and the practice remained until today. The market spreads over two city blocks and once you get there, you can buy anything from food to trinkets, as well as clothes. Even though the market is open in the morning and during the day, there are several nights a year when the market stays open. If you’re lucky enough to be in Melbourne during one of those days (nights), you should definitely visit. Such night markets are usually themed, so you will get the feeling like you’re visiting a carnival in an exotic destination.
Visit the planetarium
Built way back in 1860 and located in the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Melbourne observatory will take you a step closer to the stars. Instead of a wild night out, you can spend the evening gazing at the stars and learning about the night sky. The observatory was built with the intention to be used only for research, but it is open to the public, much to the joy of star-lovers. Your visit can be simply fun, but you can also learn a lot about stars and outer space. There are even special programs for schools so that kids can enjoy the experience too. The best thing about Melbourne planetarium, though, has to be the chance to use one of the giant telescopes.
Head to Eureka Skydeck
People might argue which part of Melbourne is best at night, but one thing is certain – nothing can beat the view of Melbourne at night from the Eureka Skydeck. It’s not for the faint of heart, though – the elevator will take you up 88 floors in under 4 seconds. The said elevator happens to be the fastest in the entire Southern Hemisphere, and you will feel like you’re in an amusement park enjoying a ride as the adrenaline pumps. The view of the city from above is unparalleled, and you will take some amazing photos while you’re there too.
Depending on who you ask for recommendations, you are going to get some very different answers about what’s best to see and do in Melbourne at night. We have compiled our list with this in mind and in hopes that you are going to find something to your liking. Even if you’re not exactly sure where to start and what to do, the most important thing is to keep an open mind and stay curious – even the simplest and seemingly boring corners can be truly magical.
