There is a lot to do in and around the Melbourne suburb of Carlton. This is a thriving part of the city that is situated only 2km to the north of the central business district of Melbourne. Being so close to the centre of the city it is a primary destination for visitors looking for good dining and entertainment spots.
The fact that it is also well known for the Little Italy precinct in Lygon Street it is also a place where it is possible to find some very good Italian restaurants. The number and quality of Italian restaurants along Lygon Street makes it an important part of the cultural identity of the suburb and it is one that the locals are justifiably proud of.
There are a few notable public spaces in Carlton that have been formed to ensure the area is a place where reflection and remembrance can take place. The Bali Memorial has been located in Lincoln Square, a memorial to commemorate the victims of the 2002 Bali bombings. On the northern part of Argyle Square a redevelopment has taken place to create Piazza Italia, a project to celebrate the areas ties to Italy. The twin city of Milan was part of this project.
Some of the architecture in Carlton is also something to behold with some examples of the finest 19th century design. Look for the Royal Exhibition Building, the Carlton Court House, the Carlton Club, Melbourne Trades Hall and the Melbourne Museum. Then there is the Carlton Gardens, a wonderful World Heritage Site that is 26 hectares of gardens and historical buildings that is a great place to come and relax or stroll around.
As mentioned earlier, those looking for a fine dining experience would definitely come to Lygon Street where there are many fine cafes and restaurants. If Italian food is not your thing, that’s okay, there’s much more on offer with all types of cuisines represented. The area is also home to an assorted collection of fine retail stores too.
There are plenty of things to see and do in Carlton, most of them are most suitable for the person who is looking for a relaxed lifestyle and wishes to enjoy some of the finer things in life.