Only a handful of sporting events worldwide can claim to command the attention of an entire nation quite like the Melbourne Cup.
Every year, the event lives up to its mantra as ‘the race that stops the nation’, bringing Australia to a standstill on the first Tuesday in November.
That trend will continue this year, with thousands of spectators set to attend Flemington Racecourse while millions more tune in at home and abroad.
The Melbourne Cup gathers plenty of attention from the betting community, with bookmakers around the world offering odds on the race several months in advance.
On race day, Australian betting platforms are inundated with punters eager to place their wagers in the hope of backing the winning horse.
Those who aren’t familiar with the inner workings of the race can use reliable Melbourne Cup tips to inform their bets on Australia’s biggest sporting event.
If you are planning to visit Flemington Racecourse to watch the Melbourne Cup this year, here’s a handy travel guide to ensure your trip runs smoothly.
Where to Stay
Brighton Savoy
Brighton Savoy is the go-to destination people looking for high-quality accommodation in Melbourne, offering top-class luxury right on Brighton Beach.
It started out as a motel but has grown into one of the best hotels in Melbourne. The owners have embraced modern design and hospitality while preserving its legacy every step of the way.
The hotel’s location is one of its many selling points. Not only do guests get to enjoy the beauty of a beachside retreat, but they can also access the bustling parts of the city with relative ease.
Brighton Savoy offers corporate rates for people travelling for business. There’s also an array of business-friendly amenities, which adds to the hotel’s allure and makes it an excellent choice.
Whether you are going for a standard room or taking up their deluxe option, guests are guaranteed stunning views of Port Phillips Bay as well as breathtaking beach vistas.
Brighton Savoy’s Seaview Restaurant serves some of the best international cuisines in the city and is a spot often used by guests travelling for business and corporate meetings.
The hotel’s front desk is available 24/7, and housekeeping makes sure to keep the rooms in sparkling condition on a daily basis.
The exotic space is just a short drive away from Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD), and the hotel provides free Wi-Fi, undercover parking, and daily housekeeping for guests.
Brighton Savoy is the ideal spot for business or leisure. It’s the perfect relaxation centre for racing fans looking to make the most of their visit to the Melbourne Cup.
Where to Eat
Sons of Mary
If you are looking for the ideal location to enjoy tasty and delicious meals, the Sons of Mary should be your go-to destination.
The Spink Street restaurant is open every day and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a vibrant dining experience.
The restaurant has a cosy indoor fireplace for winter and outdoor seating in the summer. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian or want a gluten-free meal, Sons of Mary has you covered.
Guests are also welcome to try out the bar – they serve beers on tap, fine wines and rotating cocktails.
Brighton Soul
Brighton Soul is another one of Victoria’s gems and is a must-visit for those who fancy tasting Australian food.
It started in 2013 with milk crates for chairs and old doors as tables but has grown into one of the finest cafes in the city. The venue is renowned for its creativity and quality.
Brighton Soul used to be a small space built on a passion for great coffee, but it now hosts over 100 guests across multiple dining areas, so there’s plenty of room in the restaurant.
The cafe is renowned for its bright neon lights, blue smoothie bowls, quirky graffiti and super fresh food.
Beyond the Races
If you have time on your hands before or after the Melbourne Cup, there are several attractions worth exploring in the region.
You could start out at the Shrine of Remembrance. The relic was built in 1934 and is the Victorian national memorial to Australians who served in war and peacekeeping operations.
Touring Phillip Island is also an exciting experience for visitors. When you get there, keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, koalas and the adorable tiny penguins who populate the island.
You can wrap up your sightseeing at the Melbourne Skydeck. Nothing will prepare you for the jaw-dropping view of Melbourne from the highest public vantage point in the southern hemisphere.