If you’ve found yourself short of cash, it can be difficult to stay social. Thankfully, there are plenty of great watering holes in Melbourne which cater to a student budget. Read on for our top picks for bagging yourself a cheap drink whilst studying in the city.
Asian Beer Café
Where: Central Business District (CBD), Melbourne Central
Happy hour: 4pm-8pm every day; AU$14 jugs, $8 cocktails, $6 spirits
Central, cheap, carefree – what else would you want from a bar in Melbourne? Located opposite the State Library, it could not be more conveniently located for visiting after a hard day studying. With daily specials on food and drinks, you’ll find yourself a bargain any day of the week. Its student vibe is perfect for a fun night out without breaking the bank.
Ferdydurke
Where: Central Business District, Tattershall Lane
Happy hour: 4pm-7pm every day
Another hidden gem in the Central Business District which offers a fun night out at an affordable price is Ferdydurke. Located in an underrated hipster venue, expect lots of well-groomed beards and impressive tattoos. The exposed brick walls, wooden beams and cosy fireplace make this the perfect getaway for a post-lecture drink. Don’t miss their daily deal of a Polish hotdog and a pot for $10.
The Provincial Hotel
Where: Fitzroy, Brunswick Street
Happy hour: 4-7pm everyday with $7 drink offers
Located right in the heart of Brunswick Street, this bar is ideal for some post-dinner drinks. Between the Trivia and Parma night on Tuesdays, live music on Fridays and happy hour every day between 4-7pm, you’re guaranteed to have a great night here any day of the week. Watch out for their new rooftop bar opening this summer!
The Mill House
Where: CBD, Flinders Lane
Happy hour: 4pm-7pm every day, $7.50 pints, house wine and spirits
This conveniently located underground bar is ideal for those looking for an after work tipple. From chilled out vibes in the early evening, the place really gets going once the live DJ turns up every night at 8pm. With $20 cocktail carafes every Saturday, where else would you rather be?
Howler
Where: Brunswick, Dawson Street
Happy hour: free slider with every drink purchase 4pm-6pm on Friday; 12pm - 5pm on Sundays
This multi-faceted arts hub in Brunswick is suitably placed for the large population of young professionals who live in the area. Howler is an old converted warehouse now acting as an open-top beer garden with plenty of leafy décor, giving the impression that you’re far far away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Penny Black
Where: Brunswick, Sydney Road
Happy hour: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 4pm-7pm
A Melbourne institution originally known for its live music nights is now becoming famous for its huge beer garden, movie nights and good value pub food! With a somewhat grungy feel to its interior, this one is perfect for a carefree night on the town.
Easey’s
Where: Collingwood, Easey Street
Happy hour: Wednesdays, 7pm-10pm
As the name suggests, this cool little burger joint in a converted train offers a relaxed venue for a delicious burger and some mid-week drinks. It’s worth going just to marvel at the impressive graffiti decorating the walls.
Hairy Little Sister
Where: CBD, Little Collins Street
Happy hour: 5pm-7pm every day
This funky and somewhat classier bar has a chilled but sophisticated vibe. In the day you can get a tasty brunch and in the evening, light bites are on offer. Hidden in one of Melbourne’s laneways, it can be a little tricky to find at first, but is totally worth it for the glass of bubbly included in their happy hour!
Baxter’s Lot
Where: Fitzroy, Brunswick Street
Happy hour: Weekdays – 4pm-8pm, Weekend 2pm-5pm
What looks like just a hole in the wall bar opens up to be one of the most laid-back venues in Melbourne, with friendly staff, delicious drinks and live music by local bands. Expect comfy couches, candle lit rooms and a cute little alcove under the stairs. This is definitely a Melbourne favorite.
Lucky Coq
Where: Windsor, Chapel Street
Happy hour: food and drinks included in the happy hour all week long 4pm-7pm
This hip pizza bar offers late night events every day of the week as well as cheap eats. Located on the infamous Chapel Street, it’s a perfect place to start, or end, your night out, any day of the week.
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Main image credit: Adam Selwood (Flickr)
