Melbourne Nightlife 101: Best Bars, Clubs, and Live Music for Students

It's no wonder Melbourne is widely considered to have the best nightlife in the country. From hard-core techno to smooth jazz, rooftop bars to comedy shows, the city has something for everyone. Being a student here at UC means you have access to some incredible nightlife spots across the CBD, Fitzroy, Carlton and beyond - and many of them won't break the bank.

Whether you're looking to dance until sunrise, catch a live gig or simply grab frozen yoghurt with friends, here are some of the best ways to experience Melbourne after dark.

Clubs Worth Checking Out

If dancing is your thing, here's a quick guide to some of our students’ favourites:

Monday: The Evelyn Hotel and Workers Club (both in Fitzroy)
Tuesday:  The Hawthorn (Hawthorn)
Wednesday:  Prince Alfred (Carlton)
Thursday:  Yah-Yah's (Fitzroy) – queer friendly
Friday:  Glamorama (Fitzroy) – for techno lovers
Saturday:  Revolver Upstairs (Prahran), The Toff in Town (CBD) or Sub Club (CBD)
Sunday:  The Night Cat (Fitzroy)

No matter your music taste, Melbourne's club scene is known for being diverse, welcoming and full of personality. Give a few places a try and you'll soon find your favourites.

Best Bars for a More Relaxed Night

If clubs aren't your scene, Melbourne also has plenty of great bars where you can catch up with friends without shouting over the music.

The Brunswick Green is a firm student favourite and is only a short tram ride from UC. It's the perfect place to chill out after classes, soak up the sun in summer or cosy up by the fire in winter.

Closer to campus, The Clyde Hotel and The Lincoln are classic Carlton pubs that are always buzzing with students.

Live Music

Melbourne is famous for its live music scene, and there's no shortage of venues to explore.

The Curtin in Carlton is a must for indie bands and local gigs, while Northcote Social Club is worth the tram ride for bigger acts and a great atmosphere. Rock fans should add Cherry Bar to their list - it's a Melbourne institution.

Jazz lovers are spoiled for choice too. The JazzLab in Brunswick hosts incredible performances throughout the year, while Paris Cat Jazz Club offers an intimate setting right in the CBD.

Clubs and Bars Not Your Thing?

Melbourne's nightlife isn't just bars and dancefloors. From frozen yoghurt runs to comedy shows and outdoor cinemas, there's plenty to do after dark.

If you're studying at UC, chances are you'll become very familiar with late-night YO-CHI runs. Frozen yoghurt somehow tastes even better after a long day of classes, and the store is often packed with college students loading up on toppings at all hours of the day.

Melbourne is also known for its arts scene. Her Majesty's Theatre and the Princess Theatre host award-winning musicals and plays throughout the year, while Melbourne Theatre Company (MTC) and La Mama showcase brilliant productions year-round. The best part? La Mama is only a 10-minute walk from UC.

And of course, there's the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, which takes over the city every March and April. Whether you're seeing a big-name comedian or taking a chance on a newcomer, it's one of Melbourne's most-loved events.

If you're around in summer or winter, the Queen Victoria Market Night Market is another must-do. Think food trucks, live music and plenty of sweet treats. In the warmer months, you can also grab some friends and head to Moonlight Cinema for a movie under the stars.

Have Fun!

The best thing about Melbourne nightlife is that there's no right way to experience it – no matter what you’re into, there's always something to do and plenty of memories waiting to be made.