Melbourne Unlocked: A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Coffee, Street Art & Hidden Laneways

#summervacay

**Why Go Solo?**
Melbourne is a solo traveler’s dream—easy to navigate, packed with culture, and brimming with friendly locals. From specialty coffee to secret bars, this city rewards the curious.

---

### **Your Perfect 3-Day Melbourne Itinerary**

#### **☕ Day 1: Coffee, Culture & Laneways**
- **8:00 AM:** Start at **Patricia Coffee Brewers** (CBD) for Melbourne’s best flat white.
- **9:00 AM:** Wander **Degraves Street** for umbrella-lined cafes, then explore **Hosier Lane**’s ever-changing street art.
- **11:00 AM:** Ride the historic **City Circle Tram** (free!) to **Queen Victoria Market**—try a hot jam donut.
- **2:00 PM:** Get lost in **ACMI** (film museum) or **NGV** (art gallery).
- **6:00 PM:** Hidden bar alert: **Eau De Vie** (speakeasy with whiskey flights).

#### **🌿 Day 2: Nature & Neighborhoods**
- **9:00 AM:** Brunch in **Fitzroy** (try **Industry Beans**) + vintage shopping on Brunswick Street.
- **12:00 PM:** Stroll **Carlton Gardens** to see the **Royal Exhibition Building**.
- **3:00 PM:** Sunset at **St Kilda Beach** (look for penguins at the pier!).
- **7:00 PM:** Dinner at **Chin Chin** (iconic Asian fusion—go early or solo bar-seat).

#### **🚂 Day 3: Day Trip Escape**
- **Option 1:** **Great Ocean Road** tour (12 Apostles + koala spotting).
- **Option 2:** Train to **Mornington Peninsula** (hot springs + coastal hikes).

---

### **💰 Budget Breakdown (Solo Mode)**
- **Hostel (3 nights):** AUD $90–150 (Try **United Backpackers** or **Space Hotel**).
- **Food/Coffee:** AUD $40–60/day.
- **Transport:** Free trams in CBD + Myki card (AUD $10/day).

### **⚠️ Solo Travel Hacks**
- **Free Walking Tours** (Melbourne Greeters show hidden spots).
- **Sunday Market Hopping** (Rose St. Artists’ Market, South Melbourne Market).
- **Tinder Social** (for group hangs if you’re feeling social).

**Why It’s Perfect for You:**
Melbourne blends big-city energy with small-town charm—safety, walkability, and endless surprises.

**Tag your adventure #melbournealone!** ☕🎨

*(Want a live music tip? Cherry Bar on AC/DC Lane rocks.)*