A culmination of culture, style and decadent cuisine, Melbourne is an escape like no other. Whimsical laneways abound with hidden wine and whisky bars adorn the CBD. Wake up with the fragrant aroma of coffee at a local cafe or enjoy a theatrical presentation like no other at the many playhouses. For striking views and sites, enjoy the many tours and attractions that bring nature, wildlife and even vineyards to your doorstep.
Enjoy modern Melbourne accommodation, just moments from the heart of the city, at Peppers Docklands. A newly appointed hotel, Peppers Docklands boasts stunning views of the city in contemporary settings.
Activities
The city itself is divided into cultural precincts which add their own identity to the multi-cultural city. The CBD precinct houses Melbourne’s famed laneways which are best explored when you have time to wander. Get lost amongst the impressive laneway art, browse the small boutiques or simply seat yourself down at the bluestone cobbled Degraves Street and watch as the world passes by. Some of Melbourne’s best eateries and independent shops can be found housed here in Victorian buildings for which the city is famed for.
The South Bank of Melbourne is home to the city’s arts precinct. The National Gallery of Victoria boasts a large collection of colonial, impressionist and modern Australian art, Indigenous art and artefacts as well as an extensive international collection. Situated next door is the Arts Centre Melbourne for the performing arts. Designed by architect Sir Roy Grounds, the Arts Centre has regular performances by the Australian Ballet, Opera Australia and the Melbourne Theatre company.
During the week the Docklands offer a hub of activity with many international businesses setting up offices on this waterfront suburb. Here there are many fine dining options for lunch and dinner to choose from. Look to the newly opened MOMAMI for a forward thinking, Asian inspired menu. On the weekends the area remains popular with public art, live music and events held at Marvel Stadium. Grab a seat at one of the waterfront cafes and watch as the dragon boats go by, or spend the day in this growing shopping precinct.
The city, proud of its European heritage, is host to an established diaspora of Greek and Italians which benefits the dining scene greatly. The nearby Greek Precinct is situated on Lonsdale Street and Russell Street in the centre of the city. Graze on homemade pita and mezzanines, enjoy a lunch of spanakopita, slow cooked lamb and eggplant moussaka and then finish it all off with sweet baklava. Venture to Lygon Street, the Italian precinct stretching across inner north Melbourne suburbs Carlton, Carlton, Princes Hill and Brunswick East, for a taste of Little Italy. Alfresco dining lines the street year round, which is perfect for lunch or dinner. Finish the Italian experience off with a gelato from internationally renowned Il Dolce Freddo.
Melbourne’s international flavour extends beyond Europe with the world’s oldest continuous establishment of Chinese settlement in the West. Starting on Little Bourke Street and extending to Swanston and Spring Streets, hanging lanterns and vibrant lights will let you know you’ve arrived in Chinatown. Feast on a range of Mandarin and Cantonese street food or spend an entire Sunday afternoon at Yum Cha.
When you’re through exploring Melbourne’s intricate laneways, take a scenic tram to St Kilda. Renowned for its breathtaking beach, this bohemian seaside suburb is spoilt for choice when it comes to theatres, restaurants and fashion boutiques.
Seasonal Activities
The fashion stakes are high in Melbourne. The social calendar revolves around opportunities for dapper young men and women to flash their fashion credentials culminating with the Spring Races. Visit iconic Chapel Street, stretching from the South Yarra to Windsor, for all your sartorial needs. You’ll find everything from lavish vintage designer wears, to one off pieces and collections from young Australian designers for any occasion.
Located on the South Bank of the Yarra River, Melbourne’s Royal Botanical Gardens are within easy reach of the city. These beautifully designed gardens are the perfect retreat from a vibrant city life. In the summer months the gardens are host to an open air cinema where you can enjoy a film under the starry night. Or simply take a stroll through the large array of Australian flora.
Accommodation
Enjoy a unique Melbourne experience all year round. For the ideal Melbourne accommodation, Peppers Docklands offers stylish one bedroom hotel rooms and premium suites overlooking the city. This contemporary Melbourne accommodation is ideally centrally located within reach of the best attractions.