Melbourne Cup: Where to Stay, Where to Eat & More

Australians put everything aside on the first Tuesday in November for one of the most exhilarating sports events of the year – the Melbourne Cup. The 2024 edition promises to deliver another unbeatable dose of excitement for the racing fans who make the annual pilgrimage to Flemington Racecourse. One of the most exciting aspects of the Melbourne Cup is betting, with bookmakers worldwide offering odds on the race several months in advance.

The Melbourne Cup bears some cultural similarities to the Grand National in England as it attracts bets from people who never usually wager during the rest of the year. Australian betting sites are inundated with wagers when the event rolls around, with punters hoping they can back the winner of the prestigious race. Aside from the betting interest, the city of Melbourne offers rich experiences for visitors, from luxury stays to fine dining, vibrant arts, and relaxing getaways. Read on to get the ultimate guide to making the most of your visit to Melbourne, whether you are an avid race fan or simply looking for an exciting break.

Where to Stay in Melbourne

Adelphi Hotel

Voted the best boutique hotel in Victoria, Adelphi Hotel is a stylish haven in the heart of Central Business District (CBD). The art-inspired gem features marshmallow king-size beds settled into a gorgeous interior, and the rooms carry a touch of sophistication with their in-house espresso machines. With a rooftop pool and deck area, it is perfect for people looking for luxury and convenience. Adelphi is only a stone’s throw from the city and invites you to lose yourself in the escape.

The Langham

Located on the Southbank Promenade, The Langham offers a five-star experience. The opulent hotel is renowned for its exceptional service and offers stunning, picturesque views of the Yarra River.

A tranquil spa awaits visitors looking to ease their stress before a delicious meal freshly harvested from Victoria’s bountiful farmland and the Tasman Sea at the Melba restaurant.

DoubleTree by Hilton

This 187-room hotel directly overlooks Flinders Street Station, the oldest train station in Australia. It is designed with contemporary furnishings and boutique touches inspired by the arts and entertainment district. DoubleTree is also a five-minute walk from Federation Square in Melbourne’s CBD, and visitors can experience some of the city’s most famous laneways, boutiques, and restaurants. Stylized with designer bathrooms, modern guest rooms, and 24-room service, DoubleTree offers a grand experience that is hard to beat.

Where to Eat

Chin Chin

Chin Chin on Flinders Lane is a must-visit for lovers of Thai cuisine. The restaurant has become so popular it is almost an institution of its own in Melbourne since opening in 2011. Diners can enjoy Southeast Asian flavors in an environment boldly designed with Australian art. Bustling with a lively atmosphere, lovely conversations, and fantastic dishes, it is perfect for a pre-race feast or a celebratory dinner.

Cumulus Inc

For a taste of modern Australian culinary delight, Cumulus Inc. offers a menu that showcases the best local produce in a stylish, relaxed environment. This ever-busy social hub is one of the most exciting openings on the strip. The chef will recommend their slow-roasted lamb, which is the star of the menu. However, everything here tastes great.

Centre Place & Degraves Streets

Centre Place is one of the most recognizable alleys in Melbourne from postcards and stereotypical images. It offers a delightful set of unlimited dining options. Grab a cup of coffee at Jungle Juice before heading for dumplings at Shandong Mama Mini and then cross Flinders Lane to Degraves Street for more treats and eats.

Brunetti Oro, the iconic pasticceria, sits Just around the corner for fresh cannoli and coffee.

Beyond the Races

There are several attractions if you have extra time to explore the city of Melbourne before or after the races.

Eureka Skydeck

Take in Melbourne from new heights at the Eureka Skydeck, an observation platform on the 88th floor of the majestic Eureka Tower. The Skydeck offers breathtaking views, exciting state-of-the-art virtual and augmented reality technology, and a thrilling glass cube experience, capturing everything beautiful about the city.

Hosier Lane

In a city famous for street art, Hosier Lane stands out with its glorious colors imprinted on ever-changing graffiti and murals, making it an iconic spot for photos and art. Visitors can go alone or join the walking tours for camaraderie and knowledge about the artists and their work. Many famous Australian and international artists have designed on Hosier Lane since it became a mainstay of the global art scene in the 1990s.

Dandenong Ranges National Park

Dandenong Ranges is quite the attraction for visitors looking to bask in nature. Take tranquil forest walks next to hilltop towns with exciting animals all around. Walk the infamous 1,000 steps to Olinda Falls and enjoy exciting views over Melbourne and the Yarra Valley. This rainforest getaway is home to many incredible experiences like antic trestle bridges and the little villages travelers can see through their carriages.