A whirlwind 72 hours in Melbourne. A design-led work trip filled with long walks, great food and beautifully considered spaces. Melbourne reminded me more of New York than Sydney….

Hyatt Centric Melbourne |

We stayed at Hyatt Centric Melbourne, a calm, design-forward hotel just off Flinders Lane.

What really stood out was the design of the common areas, where art and craft play a central role. The interiors are inspired by Melbourne’s laneway culture and landscape, with warm brick, stone and earth-toned finishes layered throughout. A curated collection of handmade pieces by local artists and makers is woven into the spaces — from sculptural details and bespoke objects to custom lighting — giving the hotel a strong sense of place rather than a generic feel.

Restaurant, entrance and the pool area of Hyatt Centric

The lobby in particular feels grounded and atmospheric, almost like a modern gathering place, where texture, materiality and light do the talking. It’s thoughtful, quietly expressive and unmistakably Melbourne — a hotel that rewards those who notice the details.

Where to Eat, Drink & Wander

Melbourne rewards curiosity. The best spots are often just off the main streets — a tucked-away cocktail bar, a rooftop above the bustle, or a café where the interiors are as memorable as the menu.

Maison Bâtard

French Dining | Terrace

Dinner on the terrace at Maison Bâtard felt effortlessly indulgent. The interiors balance old-world European elegance with contemporary Melbourne polish, creating a space that feels refined but never formal. On the terrace, the atmosphere is relaxed and light-filled, perfect for lingering over a long meal. Classic French food paired with a setting that feels confident, warm and timeless.

Longrain

Thai | Institution

Longrain is a Melbourne institution for a reason. Having been around for over 20 years, it still feels relevant, vibrant and full of energy. The space hums — lively but not overwhelming — and the food is consistently bold, generous and made for sharing.

There’s a nostalgic element for us too, as one of our closest friends worked at Longrain when it first opened in Sydney. It’s the kind of place that holds memories while continuing to evolve — a must-visit if you appreciate longevity done well.

Death & Co

Cocktail Bar

Dark, moody and quietly iconic, Death & Co is so New York. The interiors are intimate and deliberately low-lit, with rich materials and layered lighting that immediately set the tone. Every detail feels intentional, from the seating layout to the bar itself, creating a space that invites you to slow down and stay awhile. The cocktails are exceptional — refined, balanced and worth booking ahead.

Disuko

Rooftop Bar & Restaurant

Disuko was a lovely surprise. The rooftop is light-filled and relaxed, offering a refreshing contrast to the city below. Inside, the restaurant interiors are striking and thoughtfully designed, with strong use of texture, colour and mood. Even for a casual afternoon drink, it feels special — somewhere you’d happily return to for a longer evening stay.

Mill Place Merchants

Cocktail Bar

Hidden down an alley and behind an unassuming door, Mill Place Merchants feels like stepping into a New York speakeasy. The interiors are old-school and full of character, with dark finishes, intimate seating and menus presented in book form. It’s atmospheric and quietly cool, with a sense of nostalgia that feels authentic rather than themed. A great spot for a pre-dinner drink or a late-night cocktail.

Art & Design

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

The National Gallery of Victoria is worth visiting even if you only have a short window. The architecture alone makes an impression, with dramatic scale and calm, considered interiors. Inside, the mix of international and local exhibitions is beautifully curated across art, design, fashion and architecture. It’s a space that encourages you to slow down and look closely.

Shopping

CBD Edit

Melbourne is a city made for walking, and shopping naturally follows. Wandering through the CBD reveals a mix of grand department stores and beautifully designed retail spaces. A standout was Mecca, opposite David Jones and Myer, spanning three levels with an entire floor dedicated to fragrance. The interiors feel immersive and generous — more experience than shop.

The Milk Bar - Docklands

Café | Brunch & Coffee

The Milk Bar in Docklands strikes a beautiful balance between relaxed café culture and strong interior design. Rich tones, terracotta detailing, timber finishes and a curved stone bar give the space warmth and character. Large windows flood the interior with natural light, softening the palette and making it easy to linger. The Turkish Eggs are a standout and pair perfectly with the calm, considered setting.

72 Hours in Melbourne