Northern suburbs Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink, where to stay, and more in Melbourne's Northern Suburbs with this comprehensive travel guide.


Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs are a hidden gem that offer visitors a diverse range of experiences. From cultural attractions and scenic views to outdoor adventures and delicious food, this region has it all. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs.

Introduction to Northern suburbs

Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs consist of a collection of suburbs located to the north of the city center. This region is known for its diverse culture, lively entertainment, and stunning natural beauty. The Northern Suburbs are easily accessible by public transportation and offer visitors a range of experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Northern suburbs

If you’re looking for things to do in Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs, you won’t be disappointed. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Melbourne Museum: This museum has something for everyone, from dinosaur skeletons to historical exhibitions.
  • Heide Museum of Modern Art: A beautiful art museum set on 15 acres of landscaped gardens.
  • Old Melbourne Gaol: Immerse yourself in Melbourne’s criminal history with a visit to its former jail.

Natural Attractions of the Northern suburbs: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Merri Creek Trail: This hiking trail offers stunning views of the city skyline and Melbourne’s North.
  • Bundoora Park: A beautiful park and wildlife reserve that’s perfect for a family day out.
  • Darebin Parklands: A beautiful park full of native flora and fauna with walking trails, BBQ areas, and a lookout.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern suburbs

The Northern Suburbs offer a variety of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning scenic views and a chance to stay active. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Capital City Trail: This 29-kilometer trail starts at Docklands and runs through the Northern Suburbs, taking in the Yarra River and Darebin Creek.
  • Merri Creek Trail: A beautiful trail that follows the Merri Creek from Dights Falls to the city’s outskirts.
  • Plenty River Trail: This trail follows the Plenty River through parks, bushland, and residential areas.

Best Things to Do in Northern suburbs: Activities and Tours

For those who love to stay active and take in the sights, there are plenty of activities and tours to choose from. Here are some of the top things to do:

  • Melbourne Bike Tours: Take a guided bike tour of Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs and see some of the region’s top sights.
  • Preston Market: A bustling market with a range of fresh produce, food stalls, and crafts.
  • Vineyard Tours: Take a trip to some of Australia’s finest vineyards and winemakers located in Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern suburbs

If you’re looking to spend a week in the Northern Suburbs, here’s one itinerary to follow:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the city center and its major attractions.
Day 2 Visit the museums and historical places.
Day 3 Take a vineyard tour and enjoy some wine tasting.
Day 4 Spend the day hiking or biking in the Northern Suburbs.
Day 5 Visit some of the region’s beautiful parks, such as Darebin Parklands or Bundoora.
Day 6 Relax and enjoy some of the local cuisine and drinks.
Day 7 Spend your final day shopping for souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Northern suburbs

Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs have a vibrant food and drink scene that’s known for innovative cuisine and locally sourced produce.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Parma: A classic pub meal of chicken schnitzel topped with Napoli sauce and mozzarella cheese.
  • Borek: A savory pastry filled with spiced lamb, cheese, and vegetables.
  • Laksa: A spicy noodle soup that’s a Malaysian favorite.

Local Beverages

  • Boutique beers: Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs has a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries producing unique and flavorful beers.
  • Wine: Take a vineyard tour and sample some of Australia’s best wines, made from locally sourced grapes.
  • Coffee: Melbourne is known for its excellent coffee, and the Northern Suburbs have plenty of cafes serving up delicious brews.

Where to Stay in Northern suburbs: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs offer a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some popular options:

  • Art Series the Larwill Studio: A stylish hotel, with spacious rooms and a vibrant artsy atmosphere.
  • Comfort Inn Greensborough: A budget-friendly option with clean, comfortable rooms.
  • Bundoora Homestead Art Centre: A historic guesthouse with period-style rooms and a beautiful garden.

What to Buy in Northern suburbs: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs are known for their local produce and artisans. Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Fresh local produce: Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs have several markets where you can purchase locally grown produce, such as the Preston Market.
  • Handmade crafts: Artisans and designers in the Northern Suburbs create beautiful crafts, including ceramics, jewelry, and textiles.
  • Boutique beer and wine: Bring home some of the region’s best beer and wine.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern suburbs

Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs are known for their diverse cultural heritage, with residents from all over the world creating a melting pot of customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Northern suburbs

The best time to visit Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs is during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and the scenery is stunning.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern suburbs

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take public transportation when possible.
  • Try the local cuisine and crafts.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Be noisy or disruptive to locals.
  • Ignore signs and regulations.

Safety and Health

Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs are generally safe, with a low crime rate. Here are some safety tips to consider:

Safety in Northern suburbs

  • Be aware of your surroundings and belongings.
  • Take care when walking or biking along trails and roads.
  • Use caution when swimming in rivers and lakes.

Health in Northern suburbs

  • Australia has an excellent healthcare system, but visitors should have health insurance.
  • Be aware of potential hazards when hiking or biking, including snakes and spiders.
  • Practice sun safety, wear sunscreen, and avoid exposure during peak sunlight hours.

Getting to Northern suburbs: Transportation Options and Logistics

The Northern Suburbs are easily accessible by car, train, bus, and tram. The Melbourne Airport is located approximately 20km from the city center, and there are several transportation options available to reach the Northern Suburbs.

Airports Near Northern suburbs

  • Melbourne Airport: The main airport for Melbourne, located approximately 20km from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Northern suburbs

  • Broadmeadows Station: Located in the Western Suburbs, offering connections to the Northern Suburbs.
  • Northcote Station: Located in the Northern Suburbs and offering connections to the city center.

Other Options

  • Tram: The tram network offers several routes through the Northern Suburbs.
  • Train: The train network offers several lines connecting the Northern Suburbs to the city center.

How to Get Around in Northern suburbs

Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs are relatively compact and easy to navigate. Walking and cycling are popular options, and there’s an extensive public transportation network.

Where to Go Next from Northern suburbs: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs are a great base for exploring the surrounding areas. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Yarra Valley: A beautiful wine region located approximately one hour from Melbourne.
  • Dandenong Ranges National Park: A beautiful park with rainforests, waterfalls, and stunning scenic views.
  • Great Ocean Road: A scenic coastal drive that passes through several picturesque towns and landmarks.

Conclusion

Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs are a fantastic destination for anyone looking for a diverse range of experiences. From hiking and biking to cultural attractions and local cuisine, this region has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to make the most of your visit to the Northern Suburbs and discover all that this beautiful area has to offer.

Sydney Road in Brunswick Sydney Road in Brunswick Art Deco Moreland Community Health Centre, formerly the Brunswick City Baby Health Centre, 320 Lygon Street, Brunswick East, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Art Deco Moreland Community Health Centre, formerly the Brunswick City Baby Health Centre, 320 Lygon Street, Brunswick East, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.