Not many sporting events can capture the collective attention of an entire nation quite like the Melbourne Cup.
Famously dubbed ‘the race that stops the nation’, Australians set everything aside on the first Tuesday in November for the most exhilarating sporting event of the year.
The cultural phenomenon will continue this year as horse racing fans make the annual pilgrimage to the iconic Flemington Racecourse for another exciting edition of the Melbourne Cup.
Australians are not the only ones who enjoy the thrilling event. Racing fans from around the world will converge on Melbourne for the four-day carnival.
Fashion and festivities play just as big a role, with elegant outfits and extravagant hats taking centre stage alongside the thunder of hooves on the track.
The Melbourne Cup also garners plenty of attention from the betting industry, with bookmakers around the world offering odds on the race several months in advance.
All of the leading betting sites in Australia are inundated with wagers in early November, with punters hoping to strike gold on the right horse.
If you are planning on attending the race this year, our handy travel guide will help to ensure you make the most of your visit to Melbourne.
Where To Stay In Melbourne
1. Dorsett Melbourne
Dorsett Melbourne is one of the best value-for-money hotels in the city. It is a stylish haven in the heart of Melbourne’s new leisure and hospitality district.
The hotel features 316 elegant rooms and suites at the western end of Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD).
Guests have access to world-class facilities, including a luxurious Jin Bar, a bright and inviting restaurant, and an exclusive club lounge.
With modern leisure, including a spa, sauna, steam room and heated indoor pool, Dorsett Melbourne is the perfect relaxation centre for visitors looking to make the most of their visit.
2. The Victoria Hotel
The Victoria Hotel is a fantastic choice for anyone who fancies contemporary accommodation, and it is perfect for either business or leisure.
The luxury spot is within walking distance of some of the city’s finest attractions. It is also close to Melbourne Town Hall and just minutes away from Flinders Street Station and Federation Square.
The Victoria Hotel is a perfect blend of classic charm and contemporary comfort, with 370 spacious, stylishly furnished heritage rooms for guests to choose from.
Guests can also enjoy a full, delicious buffet and Modern Australian cuisine at the hotel’s Mister Munro’s Restaurant & Bar. They can also unwind at Vic’s Bar, which is one of the CBD’s best-kept secrets.
3. Grand Hotel Melbourne
The Grand Hotel is one of Melbourne’s most cherished heritage landmarks.
It directly overlooks the Southern Cross Station and is only a stone’s throw from the Convention Centre, shopping districts, theatres and museums.
The four-star hotel features a spacious studio along with one and two-bedroom apartments. Visitors have access to a restaurant, bar, heated indoor pool, spa, gym and a serene hidden garden.
You also get free Wi-Fi of up to 400MB per day to keep you connected, which is especially handy if you want to keep up with the latest happenings in the Melbourne Cup.
Where To Eat
1. Chilli India
Chilli India in Victoria is a must-visit for lovers of Indian food. The restaurant has been the number one spot for authentic Indian cuisine, offering exceptional flavours for nearly two decades.
Diners can enjoy a vibrant dining experience from a restaurant that has consistently topped ratings, thanks to their commitment to authenticity and quality.
Their biryani is highly recommended, but there are many other delicious dishes on the menu.
2. The Railway Club Hotel Steakhouse
For the best steakhouse in the city, head over to the Railway Club Hotel Steakhouse.
The stylish restaurant has built a reputation as one of the busiest dining rooms in Melbourne, with an atmosphere and ambience that has stood the test of time.
With a policy centred around transparency and perfection, diners have the option of choosing their preferred meat and can even supervise the preparation in their open kitchen.
If you are looking to try something new, they also have a wide range of seafood and other specials to choose from.
3. Punch Lane
If you are a fan of cosy spots, Punch Lane is your best bet. The Melbourne dining icon serves delicious food and an exceptional wine service that takes your experience up a notch.
Punch Lane is located along the northern section of Little Bourke Street, which places it right at the heart of the city’s entertainment and political district.
The restaurant is open five days a week, and its lovely atmosphere makes it perfect for a pre-race feast of a celebratory dinner.
Beyond The Races
While the Melbourne Cup is undoubtedly the main event, the city offers many attractions for visitors to explore before or after the races.
Nature lovers will have a field day at Fitzroy Gardens, exploring the towering trees, vintage cottages and lots of open spaces.
The Scarred Tree is also a fascinating sight – a living testament to the Wurundjeri people’s deep connection to the land.
If you are looking for a more expansive experience, Centre Place is worth a visit. It is packed with shops, cafes and other hidden gems if you look closely enough.
