Come rain or shine
Don’t let an unexpected shower spoil your trip to Melbourne. There’s plenty to do in Australia’s cultural capital even when the heavens open, writes Akash Arora.
Check out historic architecture
Melbourne is dotted with many period buildings and a wet spell is a great time to go indoors and explore them. Spend a few hours at State Library Victoria; established in 1854, it’s the oldest public library in Australia and one of the world’s first free ones. Or explore the Manchester Unity Building, a 1930s neo-Gothic Art Deco-style high-rise in the CBD. St Paul’s Cathedral and the Nicholas Building are other city-based attractions, while further afield (about 30 minutes’ drive from the CBD) there’s Werribee Mansion, a 19thcentury estate featuring Italianate architecture and Victorian-style interiors. Relax in a spa There’s a plethora of luxury day spas in Melbourne and spending a few indulgent hours at one of them when it’s raining is, in our book, the best thing to do. Imagine sinking into a hot bath or relaxing in a steam room when it’s cold and wet outside. If you’re after a city-based spa, your best options are Miss Fox, Chuan Spa at The Langham, and Isika Day Spa and Crown Spa at the Crown.
Enjoy a long lunch
Melbourne’s restaurant and café scene is outstanding – perfect for long, leisurely lunches or brunches. Café Di Stasio in St Kilda, Epocha in Carlton and MoVida in the city are the obvious choices. But also consider Supernormal, on Flinders Lane, where the food ranges from dumplings and Asian-inspired salads to delicious meat and fish dishes.
Go undercover
Explore Queen Victoria Market in the city or make your way to Prahran Market or South Melbourne Market.
For the full story, “10 things to do in Melbourne on a rainy day”, visit travelinsider.qantas.com.au.