Exploring Melbourne: A Cultural Adventure with Friends

A Day of Discovery in Melbourne

Our day began at Fed Square, or Fed Square as the locals call it.
I met my friends there and we were immediately struck by the modern architecture and the bustling atmosphere. The square was alive with activity; there was even a free tour of Federation Square available. It's hard to believe that this space, now a central gathering place, was once a swampy area and later railway yards. It has truly transformed into the city's beating heart. It’s amazing to think that this area was once just railway tracks! Now, it's a vibrant hub where people gather, celebrate, and express themselves.
We spent some time wandering around, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. The square itself is a mix of old and new, with intricate architecture rubbing shoulders with modern designs. It was fascinating to learn about the history of Fed Square and its significance to Melbourne.
It’s also amazing to think that this area was once just railway tracks! Now, it's a vibrant hub where people gather, celebrate, and express themselves.


Discover Federation Square, Melbourne's dynamic cultural hub, where art, community, and stunning architecture come together in a vibrant atmosphere.

Melbourne's charm lies not just in its iconic landmarks, but in the unexpected discoveries waiting around every corner.

After soaking in the atmosphere of Federation Square, we headed to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV).
The NGV is split into two locations: NGV International and The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia. We visited NGV International, home to a vast collection of international art spanning various periods and styles. From European masterpieces to Asian antiquities, there was something to captivate every taste.
I was particularly drawn to the European collection, with its stunning displays of Renaissance and Baroque paintings. My friends were more interested in the contemporary art exhibits. We were there for hours.
I was particularly captivated by the temporary exhibitions, including the works of Anne Dangar and Ethel Carrick. The blend of historical and contemporary art was truly inspiring. The building itself is an architectural marvel, with its soaring ceilings and spacious galleries creating a sense of grandeur. Entry to the permanent collection is free, which is a fantastic way to experience world-class art without breaking the bank.


Explore the National Gallery of Victoria, Australia's oldest art museum, offering an extensive collection of local and international artworks in Melbourne.

For lunch, we ventured into the heart of Melbourne's CBD to Rice Paper Scissors.
Inspired by Southeast Asian hawker-style dining, this restaurant encourages you to eat with your hands, creating a truly immersive culinary experience. The restaurant was buzzing with energy, and the aroma of spices filled the air. The menu is designed for sharing, with a variety of small plates that showcase the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. We chose a selection of dishes, including the crispy barramundi, the lobster dumplings, and the Burmese tea leaf salad. Each dish was a burst of flavor. The crispy barramundi was perfectly cooked, with a delicate balance of sweet and savory. The lobster dumplings were rich and decadent, with a hint of spice. And the Burmese tea leaf salad was a unique and refreshing combination of textures and tastes. The emphasis on fresh, organic ingredients was evident in every bite. It reminded me a lot of home.


Experience vibrant Asian cuisine at Rice Paper Scissors in Melbourne – where flavor meets atmosphere for an unforgettable meal.

After lunch, we strolled through Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne's premier shopping destination.
The mall was bustling with shoppers and street performers, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. The Bourke Street Mall is a pedestrian and tram-only zone, making it a pleasant place to stroll and window shop. We popped into Myer and David Jones, two of Australia's iconic department stores, marveling at the range of high-end fashion, beauty products, and homewares.
I enjoyed watching the street performers, who were incredibly talented. The mall is also home to several heritage-listed arcades, such as the Royal Arcade and the Melbourne General Post Office, which are worth visiting even if you're not a shopper. We stopped for a coffee at a cafe outside the Melbourne General Post Office, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the passing parade of shoppers and office workers.


Discover the vibrant heart of Melbourne at Bourke Street Mall, where shopping meets culture in an iconic urban setting.

Our final stop for the day was Hosier Lane, Melbourne's most famous street art laneway.
Tucked away in the city center, this cobblestone laneway is a canvas for local and international street artists, with ever-changing graffiti, murals, and stencils adorning the walls. Hosier Lane is a de facto free-to-paint area, which means that the artwork is constantly evolving, with new murals appearing overnight. The lane was crowded with tourists and locals alike, all eager to capture the vibrant and often political artwork.
I was struck by the creativity and skill of the artists, who transformed this once-overlooked laneway into a vibrant and dynamic public space. The street art scene in Melbourne has its roots in the 1980s, when artists began using the city's laneways as a canvas for their work. Over time, stencil art, sculptures, and other art forms complemented the graffiti, transforming the laneways into vibrant cultural hubs. The street art continues along Rutledge Lane, which horseshoes back around to Hosier Lane. As the artworks evolve, with fresh murals continually thrown up overnight (officially most of this is actually illegal), no two visits will be the same.


Explore Hosier Lane, Melbourne's vibrant street art hub featuring ever-changing murals and a lively cultural atmosphere.

For dinner, we indulged in Cantonese cuisine at Flower Drum Restaurant.
This establishment is accessed via a lift or stairs, and the decor is traditional and warm. The windowless dining room is decorated with traditional artworks and flower arrangements. The menu offers a range of Cantonese dishes, including barbeque and cold appetizers, seafood, and meat dishes. The restaurant also offers a selection of desserts. We opted for the Peking duck, which was expertly prepared and served with delicate pancakes, hoisin sauce, and spring onions. The duck skin was crispy and flavorful, and the meat was tender and juicy. We also tried the braised Wagyu cheek, which was melt-in-your-mouth tender and rich in flavor. The service was impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who made us feel welcome and comfortable. It reminded me of my childhood.


Discover authentic Cantonese cuisine at Flower Drum Restaurant in Melbourne, where exquisite flavors meet exceptional service in an elegant setting.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the incredible experiences we had shared. Melbourne had exceeded all expectations, offering a vibrant blend of art, culture, and cuisine. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I am excited to visit the Queen Victoria Market and the Melbourne Museum. I am also looking forward to having a drink at Nick & Nora's Melbourne. Tomorrow promises to be another day of adventure and discovery in this amazing city.