Package includes
The Melbourne Cricket Ground is the 10th largest sport stadium in the world and the home of Victoria cricket, as well as a regular host venue of the AFL. It is located within walking distance of the city centre and is well-serviced by public transport. At full capacity, the stadium can hold over 100,000 fans. AAMI Park, home of the NRL’s Melbourne Storm, is a modern and futuristic-looking sporting arena. It is the first rectangular stadium in the city and also hosts rugby and football matches. Your hotel, the QT Melbourne, is centrally located and the rooms offer great views of the city.
What to do in Melbourne
Melbourne is a vibrant and energetic city which blossoms under the bright Australian sun during the day and comes alive after dark, offering a thriving nightlife. Whilst staying for the AFL and NRL, you will have the chance to explore this unique Australian location. Getting around isn’t a problem as most attractions are within walking distance of one another, plus the city has an excellent tram and bus system.
Day 1
Begin your trip by getting to know the city. Start at the Queen Victoria Market, a quick 12-minute tram ride from the hotel. The Market spans two city blocks and offers everything from delicious fresh produce to clothes and souvenirs. Once you’re done with shopping, take a short walk or hop back on the tram and treat yourself to a meal at nearby Osteria Ilaria, a delightful and relaxed Italian restaurant.
Day 2
The second day of your trip takes you to AAMI Park, across the river from the botanical gardens. Here, you will get a chance to see teams fight it out for a place in the National Rugby League Grand Final. Rugby League holds a special place in the heart of Australia, so get ready for the electric atmosphere and unforgettable rugby. Unwind after the game at the nearby tapas bar MoVida and enjoy a little taste of authentic Spanish cuisine.
Day 3
Time for the AFL. Hop on the tram or enjoy a walk over to the MCG. Take some time to walk around the expansive Melbourne Sports and Entertainment Precinct before joining the crowds and finding your seat. Take a moment to enjoy your surroundings in the truly iconic stadium before settling back for the unique spectacle of Australian Rules Football. Your trip will be made all the better as you find yourself amongst a sold-out crowd for the Grand Final of the AFL, one of Australia’s biggest sporting events. After the match, take a walk to Kisumé, a delicious contemporary Japanese restaurant. With the restaurant spread over three levels, it is an impressive spot to visit.
Day 4
Start your day at the Royal Botanical Gardens and wander the 36-hectares, taking in some of the 8,500 plant species on display at this inner-city oasis. Play some sport yourself in the afternoon with a round at the nearby Yarra Bend Public Golf Course. Finish the day at Bar Liberty, a laid-back and friendly establishment that seeks to pair good food with good alcohol. Mix and match from their extensive menu and find the perfect combination of food and drink for you.
Day 5
Enjoy a little sea air and head down to St Kilda Pier. The pier dates back to the 1850s and offers all the attractions and scenic views that a good pier should. Be sure to be on the lookout for fairy penguins, as a colony of the world’s smallest penguin species live under and around the pier. If you prefer to enjoy a beach day, get up early and travel down to the iconic Bells Beach, the home of Australian surfing. Whatever you do, at the end of the day, enjoy the bold flavours at Lee Ho Fook, a Chinese restaurant that delights in presenting their own take on traditional cuisine.
Find out what else is going on during your time in Melbourne:
Pricing between £1,300 - £1,700 (p.p.)
(Prices are subject to change.)
Are you interested in such a trip or something similar? We are happy to help. Get in touch with us today.
Written on 28th September 2019
Photos by Flickerd, AAMI Park, Royal Botanical Gardens Victoria
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