Backpacking Melbourne is a must for any backpacker visiting Australia. Known as the backpacker hub of Australia, every backpacker should visit Melbourne on their Australia loop. The coastal capital of the state of Victoria is the city most backpackers fall in love with the most on their travels. With a vibrant music scene, bustling nightlife, and chilled vibe there is something that everyone backpacking Melbourne falls in love with. Crowned for seven years running as ‘The world’s most liveable city’ everyone should experience Melbourne living for a while.
Backpacking Melbourne – What’s on offer?
For those who are thinking about backpacking Melbourne, there is nothing better than exploring Melbourne’s Laneways. By staying off Main Street and exploring the alleyways around Melbourne visitors find walls covered in street art, quirky bars, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and more. Melbourne is known for its famous laneways and the best way to explore them is to dive straight in. Laneway tours are available for those who want a more structured idea of what the city has to offer, although backpackers can spend hours exploring the laneways on top of a guided tour. For more information on tours see here.
The bustling live music scene is something every person visiting Melbourne should embrace. With live shows available almost every night of the week, you don’t have to look far to find a bar with a musician playing. From bars to basements, Melbournes music scene will have something for all music lovers. For the most up-to-date listings see here.
Backpacking Melbourne wouldn’t be complete without seeing some of Melbournes’ most iconic sites. From The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), to taking a trip on the city circle tram to see the city, there is something for all. Taking the city tram is an enjoyable experience and gives a true view of Melbourne living. The tram which is free to ride is a historic part of Melbourne and shows views of central Melbourne and the docklands as well as the famous Queen Victoria Markets. The markets have been running since 1878 and are now National Heritage listed, they are the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. For any backpacker, these markets are a must-see.
Backpacking Melbourne – Where to lay your head!
For those backpacking Melbourne, a great hostel is a must and there are plenty of options! Arguably the best option overall for those backpacking Melbourne is Nomads (Base) Hostel in St Kilda. Located a two-minute walk from the beach, and a 15-minute drive from Federation Square you are in a great location. With activities on offer such as Inappropriate Bingo to jelly wrestling and comedy nights, there is always something going on for those staying. With options up to a bed in a 10-bed dorm there are options for all types of backpackers. For more information on Nomads see here.
Another option for those backpacking Melbourne is The Mansion. Located in East Melbourne next to Fitzroy, the Mansion is a great option for backpackers looking to explore Melbourne. Freshly redecorated following a time closed during Covid, The Mansion offers a great option for female-only travellers. With female-only rooms offered, swipe cards are supplied for extra safety. With options for couples up to groups of 12 there are a variety of options for backpackers looking to stay here.
For the backpackers who love to party The Nunnery is a great option. Located in a prime spot between Fitzroy and the City the hostel is in a great spot for music lovers. With events such as yoga, bar crawls, and trivia/ comedy nights, there is something for all staying at the Nunnery. The bar crawls offer free entry into all bars, deals on drinks and beer pong, a favourite for many backpackers. With single rooms up to 12-bed dorms, there are options for solo backpackers looking to keep to themselves or groups of backpackers to stay together. The Nunnery does also offer a guest house separate from the main building, this is ideal for families who are backpacking in Melbourne or in groups. For more information see here.
Backpacking Melbourne – Job Opportunities
For those backpacking Melbourne who require work whilst travelling there are plenty of opportunities. Fruit picking is available outside of Melbourne with options throughout the state of Victoria. An option for those looking to complete their 88 days of farm work is to head to Mornington Peninsula which is just an hour south of Melbourne. With work available throughout the year backpackers will thrive here. For more information see here.
Another option for backpackers is to get a job in one of the many bars or restaurants in Melbourne. These roles often require an RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol Certificate) which can be obtained here. The work can pay from $30.10 an hour if backpackers remain in a casual role which means they are not entitled to sick leave or annual leave. This is often ideal for many backpackers who want to work as much as possible for shorter periods.
A job in construction is also a common role for those backpacking Melbourne. Although more physically demanding the roles are very rewarding as you can see your results. A white card is required to work on construction sites which can be obtained here. Days on a construction site start early but often run for 8 hours which means work is usually completed by 4pm leaving the late afternoon and evening for backpackers to continue exploring this amazing city.
Backpacking Melbourne – Conclusion
For anyone backpacking in Australia, backpacking Melbourne is a must. From historical markets to famous cricket grounds Melbourne has something for everyone. The bustling nightlife and live music scene mean there is always an option for visitors to keep busy. The beautiful surroundings mean that a day trip out of the city is a great option. For backpackers who love Melbourne and the East Coast, a trip to Western Australia is a must, visit Fremantle in Perth for a Western Australian equivalent to the bustling Melbourne. For more information see here.