Car Rental Melbourne Airport

Arriving at Melbourne Airport? Get ready to explore a city brimming with culture, coffee, and stunning natural landscapes. With this guide—and a Thrifty rental car—you’ll navigate Melbourne like a local, from its lively laneways to breathtaking coastal and wine regions. 

Welcome to Melbourne! As soon as you touch down at Melbourne Airport, you’re at the gateway to a city famous for its coffee culture, street art, world-class restaurants, and scenic day trips. Whether you’re here to explore the city’s vibrant heart, venture down the Great Ocean Road, or sip wine in the Yarra Valley, a Thrifty rental car is your ride. Let’s dive into Melbourne! 

Stay Central, Go Wandering 

Melbourne’s city centre is an energetic network of bustling streets and laneways, each with a character of its own. Here’s a rundown of where to go, what to do, and what to eat. 

Exploring the Streets 

• Bourke Street Mall – A pedestrian-only shopping strip, packed with flagship stores and street performers. 

• Swanston Street & Elizabeth Street – Two of the city’s main arteries, lined with historic buildings, retail hubs, and major attractions. 

• Little Bourke Street – Home to Chinatown where you’ll find authentic dumplings, noodles, and regional Chinese specialties. 

• Flinders Lane & Little Collins Street – A mix of high-end boutiques, top-tier restaurants, and hidden cocktail bars. 

• Melbourne’s Laneways – Don’t miss Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, and Degraves Street for vibrant street art and atmospheric cafes. 

Melbourne Restaurants: A Destination in Itself 

Melbourne’s food scene is always expanding and evolving, making it one of the most exciting places to eat. Here are some must-visit spots: 

Cheap Eats 

• Old Beijing – Authentic Chinese classics served in a lively atmosphere. 

• Soi 38 – A hidden Thai street food haven. 

• Mensho Tokyo – Ramen perfection, but get there early! 

Breakfast 

• Lune Croissanterie – World-renowned croissants that are worth the wait. 

• Ondo – Korean breakfast sets paired with specialty coffee. 

• Higher Ground – An industrial-chic all-day eatery. 

Something Special 

• Aru – Modern Australian cuisine with Southeast Asian influence. 

• Tipo 00 – Fresh pasta done right. 

• Embla – Cozy wine bar with inventive share plates. 

Melbourne’s Coffee Culture 

Melbourne takes coffee seriously, and you’ll find exceptional brews at: 

• Hikari – A peaceful Japanese-style retreat. 

• Brother Baba Budan – A must-visit for espresso lovers. 

• Tori’s – A nostalgic, cozy spot in a hidden laneway. 

Explore Melbourne’s Green Spaces 

When you need a break from the bustle, escape to one of Melbourne’s amazing parks. If you’re sticking to the centre of the Royal Botanic Gardens will impress with a massive 38 hectares of stunning plant life from all around the world. A smaller, even closer option is Fitzroy Gardens, which makes a walk in the park a walk in the park. 

Take in the Arts 

Melbourne is a hub for creativity, with galleries that’ll satisfy your curiosity. Head to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), Australia’s oldest and most visited gallery that features blockbuster exhibitions, plus a permanent collection of local and international works. Nearby, at Buxton Contemporary, step into the  private collection of contemporary and lesser known Australian art. At Science Gallery Melbourne, have your thoughts provoked with interactive art fused with science. Further afield at TarraWarra Museum of Art you’ll browse interesting works with a breathtaking vineyard backdrop. 

Exploring Beyond the City 

Melbourne’s inner-city suburbs offer even more to explore, giving you a window into the city’s working class roots and the exciting evolution that continues to this day. Head to both Fitzroy and Collingwood for quirky shops, vintage stores, and lively bars and eateries, and don’t forget the rival areas South Yarra & Prahran, where chic cafes, luxury boutiques, and refined hospitality scene.  

When it’s time to really escape the city, take a drive out to the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most famous coastal drives. At the Yarra Valley, Victoria’s premier wine region, cruise through rolling hills and visit the region’s esteemed vineyards—remembering to have a designated driver with you if you plan to drink any alcohol. For something lush, take an hour-long drive to Dandenong Ranges National Park and be greeted by vast, natural bushland. 

Catch a Local Game 

If you’re in town during March–September, catch an AFL match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or Marvel Stadium—it’s a must-do Aussie experience! 

More of Melbourne with Thrifty 

Melbourne is a city of endless discovery. From hidden laneways to scenic road trips, every experience is better with the freedom of your own wheels. With a Thrifty rental car, you can explore at your own pace and make the most of your time in this incredible city. Book your car today and start your Melbourne adventure!