Melbourne’s hidden and not so secret delights

There’s something truly enticing about Melbourne’s ‘hidden’ laneways – with trendy al fresco dining, chic boutiques and an eclectic mix of outdoor art – it’s the perfect fusion of sophistication and grunge. And of course it’s the ideal way to kickstart your weekend getaway.

Start from Melbourne’s iconic Flinders Street Station (easy and frequent public transport is another bonus in this lively city) and wander across to Degraves Place to follow the cobblestone laneways on this journey of discovery. Stop for a glass of wine or a latte and take in the best of the City of Melbourne’s special public art program.

>> Destination Melbourne, Weekends For Two

Until March 2008, temporary art works will be on show in city laneways to transform the western side of the inner city and give viewers an altered perspective of the urban environment.

Fashion is always at the heart of what makes Melbourne tick, and as the warmer weather arrives, Melbourne takes on a totally new feel as the dark colours and overcoats make way for a vibrant sense of style.

There’s no doubt Melbourne is a great place to shop.

Take in the upmarket Collins Street precinct, considered the ‘Paris end’ of Melbourne with its designer boutiques including Chanel and Louis Vuitton. From haute couture to hip culture and funky threads, Little Collins Street is where the city’s streetwise head to shop.

Chapel Street is another great shopping area. Over 1000 stores make up the Chapel Street precinct which stretches over two kilometres from South Yarra to Prahran.

Looking for a bargain? Bridge Road in Richmond is renowned for its clearance stores. Or at Direct Factory Outlets, next door to the new-look Southern Cross Station, in the heart of the city you’ll find more than 100 bargain shops and cafes.

If fashion is your thing, then don’t miss the glamour and excitement of the Spring Racing Carnival where style seems to take precedence over the punters’ love of horse racing. It’s something not to be missed, whether it’s the traditional ladies’ day – the Crown Oaks Day or the horse race that stops the nation – the eminent Emirates Melbourne Cup Day on November 6. Racing events are staggered from the official launch on October 3 with glamorous lunches, sophisticated breakfast events and a great opportunity for celebrity spotting.

Melbourne has rightly earnt a reputation as the events’ capital, and the Australian Open Tennis Championships from January 14-27 is another not to be missed.

Take in the action live at Rod Laver Arena as the world’s best tennis players serve up grand slam action for the first title of the year.

Away from the big events, Melbourne has a great range of regular markets to appeal to visitors.

The Queen Victoria Market, is a colourful sprawling mass offering everything from fresh seafood and organic vegetables through to souvenirs and cheap handbags.

For local art and crafts, the Sunday Market at the Victorian Arts Centre is a highlight, while every Sunday the St Kilda Esplanade Art and Craft Market features about 220 artisans from painters, potters, jewellers and glass blowers.

One of the latest editions is the Federation Square Book Market held every Saturday with a diverse range of new and secondhand books.

Federation Square is also a great hub for dining with a diverse mix of cuisines and local and international beers and wines.

For other dining experiences, explore Southgate Promenade on the southern side of the Yarra River with its array of shops, pubs and restaurants.

Afterwards return to the laneways where you’ll discover many of Melbourne’s grooviest bars and clubs. While sometimes they are hard to find, you’ll have fun looking!