We’re going to go ahead and say it – no other Australian sporting event garners as much international attention as the Australian Open.
Last year, 1,020,763 fans strolled into Melbourne Park for the main draw, making it the first grand slam to attract more than 1 million spectators in a single tournament.
And as the Victorian capital prepares for yet another buzzy fortnight of tennis, it’s not too late to get your itinerary sorted.
With the Australian Open in full swing, here’s how to make the most of your travel time in Melbourne.
If you’re not going to the AO, keep these picks on hand for your next jaunt to Victoria (you can thank us later).
Where to stay during the Australian Open 2025
StandardX
62 Rose St, Fitzroy
An easy 3km away from Melbourne Park, Fitzroy’s StandardX is for the trendy traveller.
Boasting 125 design-led rooms over eight floors and a trifecta of drinking and dining spots, finishing your day here will be easy. You can sit in for an all-day Thai feast at BANG or perch yourself up at The Roof for a pre-match bite and drink.
If you’re after something on the go, The Box retail offering has you covered.
Laneways by Ovolo
19 Little Bourke St, Melbourne
Laneways By Ovolo is the perfect landing pad if you need something a little more central for your Australian Open travel adventure.
Nodding to Melbourne’s Laneway culture, this stay is on the doorstep of Melbourne’s best bars and restaurants, and less than a 30-minute walk to Melbourne Park.
For the entire summer, you can also check-in and take advantage of Ovolo’s Summer Concierge. This promo will get you 20 per cent off room prices and sweet deals from hospitality venues.
Where to eat and drink during the Australian Open 2025
Gardiner Hotel
84 Glenferrie Road, Malvern
The Gardiner Hotel is the perfect place to wind down after a day of sitting in the sun.
With a fresh take on your classic neighbourhood pub, this multi-level public house boasts a sun-drenched rooftop terrace.
Expect a seasonal menu with plenty of shareable plates perfect for grazing and plenty of cold ones on tap.
Hope St Radio
35 Johnston St, Collingwood
Hope St Radio is where natural wine and community radio combine. As one of Melbourne’s coolest bars – located in the iconic Collingwood Yards – you can lock in for a quick glass of vino or pasta special dinner.
Best yet? You can do it while catching a live radio broadcast. As we said, this place is cool, so if you’re after a bite to eat be sure to book.
Beverly Rooftop
627 Chapel St, South Yarra
Tower over South Yarra with a cocktail in hand? Don’t mind if we do! Distinct pastel pinks and orange hues pay homage to Beverly Hills in this South Yarra rooftop bar and restaurant.
With extensive cocktail and wine lists, you’re spoilt for choice – but a Beverly Mai Tai is the way to go.
Food is also on offer here, plus a $160pp chefs’ selection if you’d rather skip the decision-making entirely.
Marmelo Restaurant
130 Russell Street Melbourne
Woodfired cooking is the game at Marmelo. In fact, the charcoal grill and wood oven is the centre of this restaurant’s universe – well, its kitchen at least.
As one of Ross and Sunny Lusted’s first Melbourne venues, Marmelo offers a peek into Portugal with its fresh Mediterranean menu served in a moody dining room.
Whether you’re after a serving of light bites – think Salted Murray Cod and Potato Croquette, and Southern Calamari – or something heavier from over the fire, your tastebuds are in for a treat.
