'I visited Melbourne during the busiest week of the year - here's what it was like'
I recently landed in Melbourne during arguably the busiest weekend of the year, and the city felt quintessentially itself.
With the Victorian capital abuzz for the opening day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival and Oasis in town simultaneously, the city's famed streets exploded into a mix of black and white racewear, and Adidas jerseys with bucket hats.
While no Oasis ticket for me, I had a different spectacle planned.
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My view of the Pre-Parade Ring from the Parade Lounge. Supplied
Instead of Britpop anthems and stadium chaos, I was set to step into luxury with my sights set firmly on Derby Day at Flemington: an event promising heart-stopping track action, head-turning fashion and first-class hospitality.
Raceday tickets and hospitality
The team at Melbourne Cup Travel & Experiences hosted us for Derby Day, where we first arrived at the Parade Lounge, primarily for the exclusive dining experience on offer.
Perched above the horse stalls and Pre-Parade Ring, the location delivered an intimate view of the world's best racehorses before they hit the track.
As an all-inclusive offering, every detail was taken care of, allowing me to enjoy the non-stop entertainment throughout the day.
I enjoyed premium, all-day grazing and a selection of top-quality wines, beers and non-alcoholic drinks from the private bar – where wait times were at a minimum.
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The Parade Lounge offered sweeping views of both the Front Lawn and the track action. Supplied
The premium all-day grazing menu in the Parade Lounge was superb, featuring an array of gourmet bites. Supplied
Positioned right amongst the action, the casual seating incorporated indoor comfort, complete with betting facilities, and an outdoor area featuring Parade Ring and track views. The lounge also provided quick access to the Front Lawn and betting ring.
The day's action kicked off at 11:30am and did not let up until the bar closed around 6:00pm.
Beyond admission, a ticket also granted access to The Park, where Australian rock legends Icehouse performed following the last race.
The Parade Lounge provided the perfect vantage point to enjoy the all-day entertainmentn at Derby Day. Supplied
Transfers
To ensure race day is complete and entirely stress-free, personalised additions such as private transfers can be included.
My race day travel was perfectly orchestrated with relaxed and comfortable private transfers arranged directly to and from Flemington Racecourse and my accommodation in the CBD.
It was easy and fast – going from city to track in under 30 minutes.
Furthermore, the direct drop-off at The Elms Gate allowed me to skip the lengthy queues typically found at the Main Gate.
Getting to the stunning Flemington Racecourse was a breeze. Getty
Hotels
The tailor-made packages are available across all four race days of the carnival and incorporate accommodation, transfers, official tickets, desired hospitality and curated extras beyond Flemington.
All packages pair a Melbourne Cup Carnival ticket or hospitality option with a minimum travel component, such as transfers or accommodation.
Packages can include premium accommodation chosen from a curated collection of luxury partner hotels.
For my stay, I was booked into a twin room at the Sheraton Melbourne Hotel, with breakfast included in the morning.
I enjoyed a twin room stay at the Sheraton Melbourne Hotel. Hotels Combined
The location was strategic, allowing for effortless travel without sacrificing the feeling of being connected to Melbourne's dynamic pulse.
The hotel room itself came complete with double beds and a well-appointed ensuite. It provided every amenity required for a comfortable stay.
For me, the hotel served as the ideal preparation hub - perfect for getting glammed up for the races - and a restful haven between city activities.
The writer was a guest of Melbourne Cup Travel & Experiences. Official 2026 packages are now on sale.
