Melbourne has a lot on offer, including a smorgasbord of restaurants, cafes, pubs and clubs, a wide ranging music scene from punk to opera plus film, comedy, writers’ and arts festivals throughout the year. Into this mix throw the multiculturalism that is evident in the numerous cultural festivals that celebrate the uniqueness of Melbourne’s cultural complexities.
Pubs and clubs, which also means booze and music, head to St. Kilda (the Espy, Prince of Wales), Prahran (Revolver), Fitzroy (The Evelyn,
Laundry) or the city. The venues listed here are by no means extensive, and many pubs and clubs can be found all over Melbourne. Check local street press, such as Beat Magazine or Impress, to find the place and the party that best suits you.
For the more high-end entertainment, try Hamer Hall and the Arts Centre, where you will find opera, theatre and ballet, plus many multicultural gigs organised by Multicultural Arts Victoria (MAV).
You will notice that Melbourne is plastered with posters for all sorts of events, so take some time to read some while you are waiting for a tram or train and you might find the quirky, odd or just plain good fun times this way as well. There are often student-run, underground art and music events happening that may be up your alley (or, literally, down an alley) such as Sketch City.