Chicago vs Melbourne
Chicago or Melbourne? Best season, ideal length of stay, neighbourhoods, dining and where to stay, compared side by side.
Chicago or Melbourne? Side-by-side on best time to go, ideal length of stay, neighbourhoods, dining, costs and where to stay — with a clear verdict.
Chicago, United States
Chicago is America's architecture capital: a skyline of landmark towers rises along the river and Lake Michigan, backed by world-class museums, a celebrated dining scene and the Magnificent Mile's shopping. A luxury stay works best in late spring through early autumn, when the lakefront, rooftop bars and architecture cruises are at their best.
- Getting around: The 'L' trains connect both airports to downtown: the Blue Line serves O'Hare and the Orange Line serves Midway. Downtown is walkable, and taxis and ride-hailing are easy to find. Arrange a car service for airport transfers if you are arriving with luggage at rush hour.
- What to avoid: Visiting in deep winter unless you are prepared for freezing lake winds.,Driving downtown, where parking is expensive and traffic is slow.,Asking for ketchup on a Chicago-style hot dog.,Leaving architecture cruise tickets until the day in summer, when departures sell out.
Where to base yourself in Chicago
- River North & Streeterville: Central and polished, around the Magnificent Mile with flagship stores and many of the city's luxury hotels. Best for Shopping, hotels within walking distance of the lake and the river.. An evening walk along the Chicago Riverwalk.
- The Loop: The historic business district of landmark skyscrapers, theatres and Millennium Park. Best for Architecture, the Art Institute and Millennium Park.. Cloud Gate and the Art Institute of Chicago on the same morning.
- Gold Coast: Elegant tree-lined streets of mansions and brownstones near Oak Street Beach. Best for Boutique shopping on Oak Street and a quieter, residential feel.. Oak Street's designer boutiques, then the lakefront path.
- West Loop & Fulton Market: Former meatpacking warehouses now home to the city's busiest restaurant row. Best for Dining, cocktails and design hotels.. Dinner along Randolph Street's restaurant row.
Dining in Chicago
- Alinea: Progressive tasting menu. The full tasting menu, known for theatrical courses and edible balloons.
- Smyth: Contemporary American tasting menu. The seasonal tasting menu built on produce from the restaurant's partner farm.
- Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse: Steakhouse. A prime steak and an oversized slice of cake to share.
Planning details for Chicago
- Take the Chicago Architecture Center's river cruise early in your trip to understand the skyline.
- Book Art Institute tickets online to skip the line.
- Walk or cycle the Lakefront Trail for the best free views of the city.
- Pack layers, even in summer; the lake can drop temperatures quickly.
Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne, a city of understated elegance, beckons the discerning traveler with its sophisticated laneway culture, world-class dining, and a vibrant arts scene. Experience a seamless blend of historical grandeur and contemporary flair, all wrapped in a distinctly European sensibility.
- Getting around: For unparalleled convenience and luxury, utilize private chauffeurs or high-end car services. Melbourne's tram network is extensive, but a private vehicle ensures seamless access to exclusive destinations and avoidances of public schedules.
- What to avoid: Driving during peak hour in the CBD. Traffic can be notoriously congested.,Eating at chain restaurants in prominent tourist areas; the true culinary gems are in the laneways.,Underestimating the speed of Melbourne's weather changes – always carry layers.
Where to base yourself in Melbourne
- Southbank: Opulent and culturally rich, with stunning river views and premier entertainment venues. Best for Fine dining, theater, and luxury shopping along the Yarra River.. Crown Casino Complex for high-end dining and entertainment.
- Fitzroy: Bohemian chic and artistically vibrant, known for its independent boutiques and street art. Best for Unique fashion finds, artisanal coffee, and a lively bar scene.. Gertrude Street for its eclectic mix of galleries and eateries.
- CBD (Central Business District): Bustling and architecturally diverse, with hidden laneways and grand historical buildings. Best for High-end retail, iconic landmarks, and a labyrinth of gourmet cafes.. Block Arcade for its stunning Victorian architecture and boutique shops.
- St Kilda: Breezy and eclectic, offering a seaside escape with a vibrant nightlife and quirky charm. Best for Beachfront dining, quirky boutiques, and panoramic bay views.. Acland Street for its famous cake shops and European delis.
Dining in Melbourne
- Attica: Modern Australian. The 'Plight of the Bees' dessert, a truly unique culinary narrative.
- Vue de Monde: Contemporary French-Australian. The Chef's Tasting Menu with wine pairing for a theatrical culinary journey.
- Flower Drum: Cantonese Fine Dining. Peking Duck, carved tableside with exquisite precision.
Planning details for Melbourne
- Explore the city's hidden laneways and arcades; they hold the best coffee, art, and boutique finds.
- Attend a live performance at the Arts Centre Melbourne or a show at the Princess Theatre.
- Take a private hot air balloon ride over the Yarra Valley at sunrise, followed by a gourmet breakfast.
How to choose
- Chicago suits travellers who want its particular character
- Melbourne suits travellers who want its particular character
- They sit in different regions, so most travellers pick one per trip.
Chicago city guide · Melbourne city guide
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Chicago against other cities
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Published by Peters Signature Travel.