As a new international student in Melbourne you will want to start exploring your new home - and going out in Melbourne is the perfect way to do it! Melbourne has a vibrant city life, complete with a thriving restaurant and bar scene.
Going out in Melbourne: Places to visit and things to do
So, you’re ready to go out in Melbourne - but where to go first? Check out a few of our top recommendations below.
Check out the night markets
There are several special night markets held throughout the year, including the Summer Night Market, the Winter Night Market, the Night Noodle Markets and the European Night Market, to name a few.
In this bustling environment, you can engage with local stallholders, enjoy tasty delights and purchase various goods, from fresh produce to handcrafted jewellery to clothing items.
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[On-screen text: Student life in Melbourne]
[Scenes around Melbourne including ice skating, food, water fun, heritage buildings, laneway art, studying, night street scenes, art gallery, band playing, fashion show, front of State Library, record player, coffee, outdoor chess, laneway art, Melbourne Central shopping centre, beach sunset, more coffee, waterfall down a building.]
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Connect with First Nations’ culture
What better way to get familiar with your new home than learning about its cultural roots? Explore Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens (a site of significance for the local Kulin Nation) on an Aboriginal Heritage Walk. On your tour, your guide will teach you about Aboriginal plants, customs and more .
The Koorie Heritage Trust (KHT) located at Federation Square is a fantastic place to learn about the rich cultural heritage, history and knowledge systems of First Peoples. Visit their What’s On page for information on exhibitions, public programs and events, and cultural experience walking tours.
The Birrarung Wilam (River Camp) Walk run by the KHT is free and open to everyone. It takes you through Federation Square and down to the Birrarung Wilam (River Camp) Aboriginal art installation. This is a great opportunity to learn about Aboriginal history with experienced guides.
Explore the art scene
From its street murals to its museums, Melbourne is known for its incredible art scene. For your next outing, consider heading to the NGV or ACMI - or both, since they’re located next to each other. You can also check out the street art at the nearby Hosier Lane and in other laneways across the city.
Sing your heart out at karaoke
Karaoke is an awesome activity for any group and the perfect way to unleash your inner rockstar. Thankfully, many Melbournians agree, which is why you’ll find an array of karaoke bars located around the city.
Feed your cravings at a late-night dessert bar
Melbournians love dessert, which means that whether you’re craving crepes, ice cream, doughnuts or anything in between, you’ll find somewhere to satisfy your sweet tooth. Many dessert bars are open late into the night, meaning you can get your sugar rush anytime.
Put your love of puzzles to the test with an escape room
Escape rooms are incredibly popular in Melbourne - and it’s not hard to see why. Gather some friends and put your teamwork to the test as you solve a series of fun puzzles in a race against the clock.
Perfect your putt at mini golf
Mini golf - also known as putt-putt - is another option for a fun outing. Head to any of the many courses around the city with a group for an evening of fun, laughter and friendly competition.
Getting home
When it’s time to head home, there are plenty of ways to get there safely.
Public Transport Victoria (PTV) operates an extensive night network of select train, tram, bus and inter-city coach routes, which run all night on Fridays and Saturdays.
Alternatively, you can hail a taxi or book one online from companies like 13 Cabs, Crown Cabs and Silver Top Taxis.
Rideshare services, like Uber, Didi and Shebah (an all-female rideshare service) also operate throughout the city, offering a safe, convenient way to get home. On many of these apps, you can even share your journey with trusted friends so they know once you’ve arrived home safely.
Going out: Understanding the basics
Australia’s legal age for drinking alcohol is 18 years old, and this rule is strictly enforced around the country.
Even if you don’t drink alcohol, you may be asked to provide a form of photo ID to enter clubs, bars, pubs, and even some restaurants.
Not all forms of ID can be used. For instance, most venues won’t accept a student ID card or an overseas driver’s licence as proof of age.
Accepted forms of photo identification include:
- A passport from any country
- A valid driver’s licence from an Australian state or territory
- A Victorian Proof of Age card
While your passport can be handy to use when you first arrive, you might want to consider getting an alternative ID to use during your stay. A Victorian Proof of Age card is inexpensive and means you won’t have to worry about losing your passport while you’re out and about.
Victorian proof of age cards are issued by the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR). You can apply at some police stations, Australia Post outlets, VicRoads offices and pharmacies.
Find out more about the Victorian proof of age card on the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation website or by calling 1300 182 457.
Learn more about going out in Melbourne
Going out is a great way to discover new places, enjoy adventures with friends and feel at home in your new city.
For more going-out inspiration, check out what’s on in the City of Melbourne, as well as Broadsheet and Concrete Playground.
You can also check out the Study Melbourne events page to explore a variety of free events designed for international students.
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