Melbourne must do's!
 

Want to experience Melbourne also for a couple days end of February. We love to hike, bike, kite, eat, drink..what don't we want to miss? Also suggestions on places to stay that aren't too outrageous in price. Thanks for the suggestions!

This is a very useful site
http://www.visitmelbourne.com/

Hi Caroljayne,

I've suggested the YHA for Adelaide, but maybe you have more to spend....?

What is your budget for accommo?

I notice you're also visiting Adelaide. A guidebook would be a very good investment and would give you more options for activities and accommodation than you'll get here. For budget stays the Lonely Planet will be more useful than Fodors.

Plenty to see (and eat) in the CBD. Fitzroy Gardens and Southwalk good for strolls in the city. For outdoorsy further out, try the Dandenongs, the Yarra Valley, Warrandyte along the river, or even south to Philip Island to see the penguins come in from the sea to their burrows at dusk.

Ok. Breakfast at the Eoropean on Spring St. coffee & cakes at Brunettis, Faraday St. Carlton, check out the Queen Vic. Markets, experience the Skydeck at Eureka Tower, hire a bike near boatsheds and ride cycle path along Yarra River (must for you) catch City Circle free tram and HOHO sights mentioned on tram, chocolate at KoKo Black 52 Collins St. Checkout Degraves St. & Arcades all musts in Melbourne, and of course the many late night clubs. You won't have time for Adelaide!!!!

Your reply to Caroljayne also helpful to us. BUT when I tried to print one of these postings earlier all I got was a listing (ie:index) of all postings.Does Fodors not let one print?

anelew, I just copy, paste & print from that.

For inexpensive accommodation - there is a YHA motel in Elizabeth Street, Melbourne - not far from the Queen Vic market.
Also try Travelodge on Southbank and the Ibis Hotel in Melbourne. Both are centrally situated.
In February there will be free concerts in the city parks. If you are into art and museums, the Ian Potter Gallery at Federation Square and the National Gallery of Victoria in St Kilda Road (very close to each other) are well worth visiting.

Here are a few suggestions (ie my favourites!):
* Eat - Richmond Hill Cafe and Larder (fabulous breakfasts, great atmosphere and if even if you only slightly like cheese, you've got to check out their cheese room!).
* Visit - the QV Markets on a Saturday morning. It'll be bustling with locals and tourists shopping up a storm. It's just like those European food markets!
* Stay - Jasper Hotel (www.jasperhotel.com.au) - a decent hotel that's not over the top $$ wise. You may also get some good bargains on wotif.com.au closer to the day.
* Do - Sail Phillip Bay - it'll be warm then so you might need a bit of cooler time on the water. I booked it online here: www.godo.com.au/activity/DVSL100
* Do - plenty of the gardens, the galleries and if you're into it - shopping!!
Enjoy!