Last year, I discovered Melbourne — my first experience in Australia — and it quickly became one of my favorite cities. I like it so much that I came back 2 more times this year, each visit adding new reasons, places and experiences to justify why I love it there.
One thing that struck me immediately is how homey Melbourne is. It feels like you are being hugged wherever you go. Weird, but that’s how this city makes me feel. Lol! The vibe is incredibly laid back, which was a refreshing change for a Manila girl like me. Parang walang nagmamadali dito. Chill na chill lang.
When I went the first time, I already felt that I want to settle in a place like Melbourne. Have you experienced living in one of their suburbs? Sobra child-friendly! Everywhere you look, there are clean, well-maintained parks and playgrounds — not just one or two, but playgrounds every 200 meters! And the parks are unlike the common ones you see here. They have accessible tree houses, climbable towers, trampolines, water features where kids can actually play and get wet in, really tall slides, different kinds of swings, monkey bars and kung ano ano pa. Akala mo may pa-contest ng pagandahan ng park eh.
The weather in Melbourne was another pleasant surprise. I visited during the tail end of their summer and autumn, and both seasons were comfortable and enjoyable. Sure, it can get cold sometimes but nothing extreme. The locals often mention that summer can get really hot, but honestly, I was lucky every time I went; it never felt overwhelming. Compared to Manila’s tropical heat, feeling ko nasa Baguio ako when I was in Melbourne.
As someone who loves staying active, I liked how easy it is to get around by foot. Melbourne is incredibly walkable. Hindi ka tatamarin maglakad dito, guys. Sarap maglakad lakad everywhere regardless if you’re in the suburbs or in the city. The sidewalks are wide and well-maintained, lined with greenery, and the streets are clean and safe. Public transport is efficient and accessible. Okay ako magcommute dito.
Now, where to go, what to do, what to eat when you’re in Melbourne. Here are some places and experiences that I want to share with you.
When you are in the city, I suggest you go to these places:
Flinders Street Station
This train station is located at the heart of the Melbourne CBD. It was built in the 1900s and no visit to Melbourne is complete without seeing this station. It’s one of the most photographed spots there.
St Paul’s Cathedral
Diagonally in front of Flinders Street Station is this beautiful church. I always go here whenerver I visit Melbourne. During my first time there, 3 years after my separation, I prayed and thanked God where I was that time. Hindi ko namalayan, tears were falling na from my eyes. I was just extremely grateful I was able to get past that stage of my life
Melbourne Parliament House
From 1901 to 1927, this grand building was home to the Australian Federal Government while Canberra was still under construction. I’ve never managed to visit when it’s actually open (laging sarado when I pass by 😅). They offer free guided tours, and one day, I will go back to explore the inside and see the architecture up close.
State Library Victoria
The oldest public library in Australia—and one of the prettiest! I had to see the La Trobe Reading Room in person and it did not disappoint. I love libraries, and this one is chef’s kiss. Ang sarap mag-aral dito, kahit hindi ka talaga mag-aaral. 😄
Hosier Lane
Melbourne’s street art scene is iconic, with spots like AC/DC Lane, Degraves Street, and of course, Hosier Lane. I went expecting to be blown away… and to be honest, medyo underwhelmed ako (lol). Maybe it was the hype. Still worth a visit, just manage your expectations. The vibe is cool and artsy naman!
Queen Victoria Market
I kept hearing about this place on my earlier trips but only visited on my third time in Melbourne—with Anika! It’s like a big open-air tiangge selling everything from souvenirs to fresh produce. It’s definitely touristy (and a bit pricey), but still fun to explore. My fave find? Canvas bags with hand-painted designs. Super cute!
Southbank Stroll
If you’re into a mix of old and new architecture like I am, take time to walk around Southbank. It’s right along the Yarra River and full of great cafes and restaurants. I didn’t get to explore it fully, but it’s on my list for next time—perfect for a relaxed city walk with nice views.
There are a lot of nice places also outside the Melbourne CBD.
Sovereign Hill
Sovereign Hill in Ballarat is a living museum that brings the 1850s gold rush era to life. It’s one of my favorite places near Melbourne. You feel like you’ve time-traveled—with people in costume, gold panning, and horse-drawn carriages. I made an Instagram reel if you want a sneak peek!
YARRA VALLEY WINERIES
Just an hour from Melbourne, Yarra Valley is great for wine lovers—or road trippers who want beautiful views. We had lunch at Beechworth Bakery in Healesville (est. 1984), and I highly recommend their Ned Kelly pie—steak with bacon, cheese, and a whole egg for $8. So good!
I don’t really drink, but I gave wine tasting a try at Yering Station, one of the oldest vineyards in Victoria. I got the Village tasting for $15. A friendly reminder: bring a designated driver—strict sila sa alcohol laws. I was already woozy halfway through 😅. My favorite? The Merlot!
YARRA VALLEY CHOCOLATERIE AND ICE CREAMERY
Honestly, not mind-blowing, but if you love chocolate (like I do) or you’re with kids, it’s still worth a quick stop. Lots of free samples and sweet treats to try!
BRIGHTON BEACH HOUSES
The Brighton Beach Bathing Boxes are a must-see when you’re in Melbourne. These colourful wooden huts have been around since the early 1900s and were originally used as changing rooms by beachgoers. Each one is painted differently, and they all sit in a perfect row right along the sand. If you do not mind having just 12 square meters of space and no running water or electricy, you can actually buy one of these at 400,000 AUD each, provided you are a resident of Brighton.. and if a previous owner decides to put his up for sale.
BALLARAT WILDLIFE PARK
If you are a first timer in Melbourne, you definitely have to see, pet and hand feed some of the 100 free roaming kangaroos at the Ballarat Wildlife Park. They are adorable. My tip is you go early in the morning. Dudumugin ka ng kangaroos. Anika and I went late in the afternoon and bundat na sila. Ayaw na kumain. They were all just lazying around the place.
MACEDON RANGES / MOUNT MACEDON
If you’re in Melbourne during autumn, do a day trip to Mount Macedon. Start with a stroll along Honour Avenue, a lane lined with massive oak trees that turn fiery red, orange, and gold. It’s breathtaking. Even though we were a few days late for peak colours, it was still gorgeous.
We also hiked Camel’s Hump, the highest point in the Macedon Ranges at 1,011 meters. The view from the top? Amazing. It’s a 500-meter uphill walk—chicken lang for Anika, pero ako hupa agad 😅. Definitely a spot where you want to slow down, breathe, and just take in the beauty of nature.
GEELONG BEACH
One of my absolute favorite places. I wish I visited more often while we were in Melbourne. I want to spend more time walking around, exploring the area or just tumambay lang dun ng wala lang. It has a 133 kms of coastline (magsasawa ka maglakad). It’s really beautiful there. My mind was quiet for once and I was able to relax even for a while.
Anika and I also strolled the Eastern Beach Reserve boardwalk—built in the 1930s. It’s got everything: sea baths, pools, diving towers, floating islands, changing rooms, and even cafes. Catch the sunset here—it’s romantic and super calming.
After three visits, I’ve realized that Melbourne isn’t just another city on the map—it feels like a community that embraces life’s simple joys. Whether it’s strolling through a quiet park, sipping coffee in your kitchen or at a cafe, or admiring beautifully preserved historic buildings, every moment here feels thoughtful and grounded. Totoo, no exaggeration. There’s just something about Melbourne that sticks with you, even after visiting other countries.
Melbourne truly feels like a place I could call home. If you ever get the chance, I highly recommend experiencing it for yourself — you might just fall in love with it as I have.