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How much money do I need for visiting Melbourne? - Melbourne Forum

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The idea is to make an economic trip but open minded to spend more money in expensive things if they worth it.

Also I'd like to know which months are ideal to go.

Thanks! Pablo

Is accommodation to be included or are you talking spending money only?

Expensive things ... like jewellery?

Well, up to now is suppose that I shouldnt take care of it since I'm going to a friend's house but I want to take it into account just in case.

The previous reply was not complete.

@YorkFoodie

Well, up to know is supposed that I shouldn't take care of that since I'm going to stay at a friend's house, but I want to take accommodation into account just in case

Maybe expensive things was not the appropriate word. What I meant was about paying for some shows, going out at night, paying for excursions, etc

The cost will vary immensely. It really depends on your spending habits. With accommodation, are you looking at youth hostels or hotels? Food costs can be minimised by having as many meals at the hotel room or your friends place. Excursions and going out at night will depend on where you are going to. Allowing for no accommodation costs, I would think $50-$75 a day would be more than enough.

What you say is very interesting. About accommodation, hostels are ok.

Do you have any idea about transport prices? I've read that you can pay for all day tickets to move across the city by using buses, train, etc. Is that right? And about food What prices do you have to pay going to some cheap places?

http://ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/metropolitan-myki-fares/

In any case, don't bring cash. You will get better value by bringing a debit card and getting money out of ATMs.

Thanks a lot for the info about the myky card.. will help a lot. And regarding the use of a debit card, i'd use it but since we have a lot of taxes by using them out of argentina it's going to turn too much expensive in some cases. I have to pay 35% extra for each pay i make with it..

thanks a lot guys. Hope to be there soon

In regards to food, you should be able to get a decent, filling , budget type meal for $10 (lunch) but dinner will be about $15. Hope this helps

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Best places to exchange currency in Melbourne

Discover how to find the best deal when you need to exchange currency in melbourne..

In this guide

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Where can i change my money in melbourne, tips for getting the best deal when exchanging money, compare money transfer services.

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Exchange rates

Whether you're an international traveller visiting Melbourne or a local planning a trip overseas, there are plenty of convenient places to exchange foreign currency in and around the Melbourne CBD.

Keep reading for details of some of the currency exchanges to compare when searching for the best value for money.

Exchange my cash Send money overseas

S Money is an online currency exchange, but they also have one store in the Melbourne CBD. Based on our research, S Money offers the best exchange rates in Melbourne but charge a percentage-based service fee and a $14 service fee for home delivery. For example, they charge around 1.8% when exchanging AUD to USD. In comparison, Travelex and Travel Money Oz add a markup of 3.70% on conversions to US dollars.

2. Travelex

As one of the most recognised names in the world of currency exchange, Travelex allows you to buy and sell over 45 currencies either online or in-store. Travelex has 2 locations in the CBD and 13 locations within 20 miles of the CBD.

3. Travel Money Oz

Travel Money Oz supports more than 60 currencies, and also a travel money card that can be pre-loaded with up to 10 currencies. You can buy currency from Travel Money Oz online or in-store, with the provider boasting 3 locations in the CBD. Their exchange rates aren't as competitive as S Money's but their customer service is excellent.

4. United Currency Exchange

United Currency Exchange is a Melbourne-based provider with branches in Swanston Street and QV Melbourne. They are open five days a week from 9am to 5:30pm. You can place an order either online or in-store, and there are more than 35 currencies available.

5. Crown Currency

Crown Currency is a currency exchange company that was founded in 1998. They have 11 branches in Victoria but only one in Melbourne CBD. Crown Currency offers a wide range of currency exchange services, including cash exchange, traveller's cheques, and international money transfers. Unlike other services, they don't display exchange rates on their website so you will need to contact them for a quote.

• Know the mid-market rate. Use Google to find the current mid-market exchange rate. This will let you work out whether the rate being offered by a currency exchange service represents good value.
• Shop around online. Rather than visiting several stores in person, shop around online to find the provider with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Check for fees. Make sure you check the fine print to find out what fees apply to your transaction. Remember that even if an exchange bureau claims that it doesn't charge any fees, your transaction will still cost money as the provider always adds a margin to the mid-market exchange rate.
• Avoid airport exchange bureaus. These locations generally offer low exchange rates and higher fees.
• Steer clear of ATMs. Withdrawing money from a foreign ATM may be a simple and convenient option, but the high fees and disappointing exchange rates mean it's also quite expensive.

Looking to send an international money transfer rather than exchange currency? Compare our options below to save money on transfer fees and lock in stronger exchange rates.

We update our data regularly, but information can change between updates. Confirm details with the provider you're interested in before making a decision.

Learn how we maintain accuracy on our site.

Tim Falk is a writer for Finder, writing across a diverse range of topics. Over the course of his 15-year writing career, Tim has reported on everything from travel and personal finance to pets and TV soap operas. When he’s not staring at his computer, you can usually find him exploring the great outdoors.

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2 Responses

Is Bangkok a better place for exchange rate to change AUD to Japanese yen?

Thank you for getting in touch with Finder.

If you’re going to Bangkok and considering exchanging AUD for Japanese yen, that would be fine. Most travelers would have their money exchanged for Japanese yen before arriving in Japan. You may also use our travel money guide for Japan .

I hope this helps.

Thank you and have a wonderful day!

Cheers, Jeni

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Melbourne, Victoria

Guide to Melbourne

Aboriginal name:  Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)

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Melbourne is Australia's mecca for all things trendy and tasty. The city offers up exquisite dining, exhilarating sport and abundant opportunities to experience art.

A perfect blend of rich cultural history and new age trends is waiting for you in Melbourne. As the sun goes down, the city comes to life with a vibrant dining scene as well as events and exhibitions. Explore its bustling laneways, trendy neighbourhoods and sophisticated foodie scene to get a taste of what Melbourne is all about.

Melbourne stands on the ancient grounds of the Kulin Nation of the Wurundjeri people. For the Kulin Nation, Melbourne has always been an important meeting place for events of social, educational, sporting and cultural significance. Experience the culture through a range of heritage walks, cultural tours and galleries.

• Traditional name of Central Melbourne: Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)
• Indigenous Peoples of Central Melbourne: Wurundjeri people
• Traditional lands of Greater Melbourne: Kulin Nation
• Traditional languages: There are four traditional languages in Narrm. Bunurong (Bun-wurrung), Taungurung (Tung-ger-rung), Wathaurong (Wadha-wurrung) and Dja Dja Wurrung (Jar-Jar-Wur-rung).
• How to say g’day in Wathaurong: Wominjeka

Getting to Melbourne is easy with flights arriving direct to two airports. 

• Melbourne Airport at Tullamarine (MEL) is 22km (14mi) from the city and services international and domestic arrivals
• Avalon Airport (AVV) is 55km (34mi) from the city and services international and domestic flights 
• Hire cars, taxis, rideshares and a shuttle service are available from both airports

Getting around  is just as easy as finding a great cup of coffee in Melbourne. The city offers clean, reliable and affordable public transport services. There is even a free City Circle tram line with historical commentary.

Despite having four distinct seasons,  Melbourne's weather  is known for being a bit unpredictable. Summers are generally warm and winters cold, but just ask a local and they’ll tell you that it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day. So whenever you decide to visit, be sure to pack layers and carry an umbrella in your day bag. 

• High season: Spring and summer (November to February)
• Low season: Winter (June to August)
• Don’t miss: Melbourne’s world-class festivals and events

Melbourne is a dynamic city with plenty of accessible options for accommodation, attractions , restaurants , cafés and shopping . 

• Arrival: Disability assistance is available at Melbourne Airport, including for those with hidden disabilities .
• Getting around: Most Melbourne buses and trains have accessible options – check the Public Transport Victoria website  for information on using public transport.
• Accessible experience highlights: Several cultural institutions cater to travellers with accessibility and sensory needs, including the National Gallery of Victoria and Scienceworks .
• Helpful resources: Travellers Aid Australia provides mobility equipment hire and recharge points, while the City of Melbourne’s mobility map makes it easy to locate accessible facilities.

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MELBOURNE TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

Our first day in Melbourne was a series of unfortunate events.

We spent our first two hours wandering aimlessly along its almost empty streets. I was supposed to rely on data roaming on my first day, but for some reason, my service provider decided to cut my line despite having paid my bill in full even before my trip. It would have been easy finding a pocket wifi or SIM card but our plane landed in the early morning, at 3am, and none of the shops at the airport or the city were open. I connected to the airport wifi for a minute to load Google maps and search for some info and decided to head out to my hotel.

Without access to the internet, we took the bus and successfully reached the city only to end up boarding the wrong tram, taking us farther from my hotel. LOL. We tried hailing a cab, but there weren’t that many passing by and none of them would stop. With luggage in tow, we decided to just walk to the taxi queue that we spotted earlier, eight blocks away. The cold, cold mid-autumn wind was sweeping Melbourne’s wide streets. When we finally arrived at the hotel, the receptionist greeted us with a warm, warm welcome. I knew it would be too early for check-in, but she smilingly shared that there was already an available room and that we could check in if we so preferred. “It’s your lucky day,” she said. She had no idea.

When I finally hit the bed to rest, I was immediately reminded of the first years of The Poor Traveler. We built this blog to document our misadventures and share tips to our readers so they could learn from our mistakes. This trip is one of our most unforgettable because we made a lot of mistakes along the way. So here’s our Melbourne Travel Guide, and here’s hoping you’ll learn from it.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING MELBOURNE

Melbourne is located along the southern edge of Australia. It is cradled in the sheltered Port Phillip Bay, which opens up to Bass Strait, separating the mainland from the island of Tasmania.

Way before Europeans arrived, Australian Aborigines have inhabited the area for thousands of years. In the 19th century, free settlers from Tasmania (called Van Diemen’s Land at the time) moved to this corner of the Australian continent. Other groups of settlers followed. Back then, the area was part of the British colony of New South Wales. On 30 August 1835, the city was founded, named after the Prime Minister of Britain at the time, William Lamb, 2nd Viscount Melbourne. The next decades saw a gold rush fueling the fast development and population growth of the city.

Today, Melbourne is the capital of the Australian state of Victoria. Next only to Sydney, it is Australia’s second largest city, home to around 5 million residents, and one of the most visited by travelers, with its main airport welcoming over 35 million passengers in 2016-17.

Here are some useful bits about Melbourne.

• Location : Melbourne is part of Victoria, Australia. It’s on the southern hemisphere, so they enjoy summer in December-February and winter in June-August. Coordinates: 37°48′49″S 144°57′47″E.
• Time Zone : UTC+10. Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST). Melbourne is ahead of the Philippines, Singapore or Malaysia by 2 hours, and ahead of Japan by 1 hour. Daylight saving time is in effect in summer: AEDT (UTC+11).
• Language : English is spoken by the majority. But Mandarin, Greek, Italian and Vietnamese are spoken by a significant fraction of the population.
• Currency : Australian Dollar (AUD). AUD1 is roughly PHP36, USD0.7, SGD 0.95, EUR0.62, (as of July 2019). If you have Maestro, Cirrus, Visa, MasterCard Debit cards, you can withdraw from ATMs. Or before your flight, go to your local bank and buy AUDs.
• Modes of Payment : Cash and credit cards are both commonly accepted but the city is moving in the cashless direction.

WHERE TO STAY IN MELBOURNE

If you look at the map of Melbourne, you’ll find that it is split into two by the Yarra River. The city is further divided into several districts, but travelers can focus on five areas, which I’ll discuss below.

• Central Business District (CBD) , located north of Yarra River. In many cities around the world, the financial district is separated from its old town. In Melbourne, the CBD is also its historical core, which makes it the most ideal place to stay for tourists. It is well-connected to many other parts of the city and surrounding suburbs.
• Docklands , also north of Yarra River but west of the CBD. Think of it as Melbourne’s marina. There isn’t much activity here on a regular day, but attractions include the Marvel Stadium, the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, and some shopping centers.
• Southbank , which stands on the southern banks of the river, hence the name (duh). This is the city’s entertainment center with a theater complex and the Crown Casino area.
• Inner North , the area in the immediate north of the CBD. Its map is shaded by a number of gardens and parks, but the most popular tourist spot is the Melbourne Zoo.
• St. Kilda , south of the city center. It has emerged as the city’s backpacking district; thanks to its vibrant nightlife, accessible bay beach, and a multitude of affordable hostels and restaurants. Attractions include Luna Park and the Sunday art market.

BEST AREA TO STAY IN MELBOURNE

Which is the best area? Well, it depends on a lot of things.

If I’m traveling with family or friends, I’ll definitely choose the CBD. Everything else is also easily accessible from here. But if I’m traveling alone, I’ll probably consider St. Kilda. There are also direct buses from the airport to both areas.

If you choose to stay in CBD, pick a hotel or hostel near a train station, so you don’t need to walk long distances or rely on the tram too much if you decide to see attractions outside the city. In particular, consider the areas close to the following:

• Central Station
• Southern Cross Station

Both are in a good location: bursting with cheap lodging, dining, and shopping options. But I believe that Southern Cross Station is more ideal. I stayed near Central because I cluelessly assumed that it is the city’s main station. It turned out that Southern Cross Station is the real heart of the city because most train arteries pass through this area especially if you plan on seeing the suburbs and attractions outside the city like Werribee. In fact, I often find myself making a transfer at Southern Cross when I’m coming from Central.

Several bus lines also start or terminate at Southern Cross. Many organized tours also have their meet-up points somewhere around the area. So yep, it’s Southern Cross for me.

The most common accommodations in Melbourne are hotels. All of them are expensive, especially if you’re used to Southeast Asian rates. But cost of living in general is pretty high. There are budget hotels available in the CBD. Another slightly more affordable option is booking an apartment or a room in a residential building or area. Hostels are also available.

Below are the top-rated properties on Agoda, as scored by customers.

Top Budget Hotels in Melbourne

• ibis Melbourne Central. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Brady Hotels Central Melbourne. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• The Jazz Corner Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Melbourne Apartments for Rent

• The Escape in Southern Cross Station. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• AML Apartment. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Nest-Apartments Sea View Apartments. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Melbourne Hostels & Dormitories

For budget travelers and backpackers, staying at a hostel is a great idea. Not only do you save some bucks, you also get to meet other travelers. You can find hostels near Southern Cross Station (Melbourne Central YHA) or other parts of CBD that offer beds for as low as A$30 per night.

Most hostels also have an open kitchen where you can cook your own meals. You get to save a lot on food this way.

• United Backpackers. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Melbourne Central YHA. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Space Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Europa Melbourne. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Nomads Melbourne Backpackers. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Melbourne Hotels!

HOW TO GET TO MELBOURNE

As one of Australia’s most popular destinations, Melbourne is connected by air to numerous cities around the world and over 30 other destinations in Australia. It is served by two airports:

• Melbourne Airport (MEL), also known as Tullamarine Airport because it’s located in the suburb of Tullamarine, north of the city center. As the bigger airport, it is used by more airlines including Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific.
• Avalon Airport (AVV), located in Avalon in Geelong City, 50 km southwest of Melbourne. It’s used primarily by JetStar and AirAsia.

If you’re coming from Manila, the easiest and most convenient flights are offered by Philippine Airlines. PAL, the country’s four-star flag-carrier, uses a 309-seater Airbus A330-300. They use the Melbourne Tullamarine Airport. Travel time is only around 8 hours.

Regular fares can go as low as USD233 one-way, which can still go lower when there’s a promo. All bookings come with FREE 25kg baggage allowance and a hot meal, a snack, and complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

All seats are equipped with personal TV screen featuring an impressive collection of movies and series, and in-seat USB power supply! I binge-watched episodes of Young Sheldon onboard! Haha. It’s also myPAL wi-fi enabled!

MELBOURNE AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER

The easiest way to travel between the airport and the city center is by taking the SkyBus , which runs for 24 hours (varying frequencies throughout the day). The journey lasts 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

After emerging from the Immigration and Customs inspection area, head to the exit to your right. Immediately outside, you’ll fine the SkyBus stop. You’ll know you’re at the right place when you see the electronic ticket kiosks and a ticket booth.

You can book a SkyBus ticket via the electronic machines here. Note that these machines don’t accept cash, only credit cards. Fare: AUD 19.75, one-way; AUD 38, roundtrip. All buses are equipped with FREE wifi.

You can also book online. You can score a slight discount if you book with Klook ahead of time.

There is also a cheaper option: taking the public bus. But it takes a lot longer! If you’re interested, you can read about it here: MELBOURNE AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER!

AVALON AIRPORT TO MELBOURNE CITY CENTER

Avalon Airport (AVV) is located in the city of Geelong, roughly an hour away from Melbourne CBD. Just like at Melbourne Airport, you can catch the SkyBus to the city center. However, it is NOT available 24 hours.

• First trip: 9am
• Last trip: 12 midnight

The bus passes through Werribee before reaching Melbourne. It terminates at Southern Cross Station.

• Fare: A$24 one-way, A$46 round-trip.
• Travel time: 1 hour.

You can book at the airport when you arrive but you can also book online in advance for a slight discount.

SOUTHERN CROSS STATION TO YOUR HOTEL

Whether they’re coming from Melbourne Airport or Avalon Airport, all SkyBus units bound for Melbourne CBD terminates at Southern Cross Station . If your hotel is nearby, you can just walk from the station. This is just one of the reasons why the Southern Cross area is the best place to stay in the city. Just use Google Map to navigate.

If your hotel is located in other parts of the CBD, you have plenty of options too. If you’re arriving between 6:30am and 7:30pm, you can avail of the complimentary transfer from Southern Cross Station to a stop near your hotel. This is FREE-OF-CHARGE for those who took the SkyBus. It operates 7 days a week, 06:30 to 19:30. You can find the stop closest to your hotel here .

If your hotel is closer to Central Station, you can also travel by tram (free), train (fare: A$4.40), taxi (fare: around A$10.6), or Uber (around A$8.6) to Central area.

HOW TO GET AROUND MELBOURNE

If traveling within CBD, I prefer walking. Melbourne is a very pretty city, with a distinct European vibe that other Australian cities don’t possess. You’ll also stumble upon delightful surprises like artful graffiti and food kiosks.

By Public Transportation

There are plenty of options to get around including trams, trains and buses. But how do you know which is the best option for your desired destination? If you own a smartphone, you can download the PTV app. PTV stands for Public Transport Victoria, the agency that governs and runs the tram, train, and bus systems in this part of Australia. You can download here: iOS , Android .

On the app’s Journey Planner, enter your origin and destination and it will present a selection of routes that you may take. Pick one based on your schedule and preferences.

FREE Tram Zone

For visitors, one of the best things about Melbourne is its iconic FREE TRAM . You don’t need to get any sort of pass or ticket to avail of this; just hop into the tram. It’s FREE as long as you’re traveling WITHIN the FREE TRAM ZONE.

If your starting or ending point is outside the zone, the A$4.40 2-hour rate will apply.

Outside the free tram zone, you have plenty of options. But wait, before that, let me introduce to you the myki .

How Does the myki Card Work?

Melbourne’s public transportation systems no longer accept cash payments. Instead, they use the so-called myki , an electronic reloadable card. Even if you’re a tourist staying in Melbourne for a few days, you will need to get a myki card if you want to use the train and the bus, and the tram outside the free zone.

The problem is: myki is confusing to newbies.

So how does it work? Using it is easy to understand. Onboard the tram and the bus and at the entrance gate to the train station, you simply “touch on” the card at the start of the journey and “touch off” when you reach your destination. Easy.

It’s the pricing that is a bit complicated. But it gets less confusing once you get the hang of it. Let us break it down:

• The card costs AUD 6. That’s just for the card itself. You will need to top it up after.
• The standard fare is AUD 4.40, which is good for 2 hours — that is 2 hours from the moment you first use or touch on the card. However, if you touch on after 6pm, the 2-hour fare is valid until 3am the next day.
• The daily fare is AUD 8.80. This is the maximum you can spend per day as long as you’re traveling within Melbourne City (Zone 1) and suburbs (Zone 2). Meaning, if you use the card once, you’re gonna get charged A$4.40 for the first 2 hours. If you use it again after 2 hours, you’ll be charged A$8.80, valid for another 2 hours. But if after 2 hours, you decide to use it again, you will no longer be charged because the A$8.80 daily cap is already reached. Same with succeeding uses on that day. It sort of automatically becomes an unlimited pass.
• On weekends, the daily cap is only AUD 6.40. Same reduced rate applies to public holidays.
• A 7-Day myki Pass is available for only AUD 44. This is a good deal if you’re exploring Melbourne for 7 days. Note that these are consecutive days.
• Passengers 5-18 years old can avail of the 50% concession discount. The card price becomes only A$3, weekday fare A$2.20 for 2 hours, daily rate A$4.40, weekend daily cap A$3.2, and 7-day pass cost A$22. Passengers younger than 5yo can travel for FREE.
• You don’t need a myki when traveling by tram within the FREE Tram Zone. If you have a myki, you DO NOT need to touch on your card if within the Free Tram Zone. But if your starting or ending point is outside the zone, the A$4.40 2-hour rate will apply.

Here’s a quick summary of the fares (as of 2019).

There is actually a lower fare that applies when traveling within Zone 2 (suburbs far from the city center), but since most tourists will be coming from Zone 1, let’s not go into detail because it will just make matters more complicated.

IMPORTANT! Don’t forget to touch on and touch off when traveling outside the free zone. Ticket inspectors sometimes patrol the area and make random checks. I’ve seen it before. If you’re caught trying to score free rides, you may be fined around A$250!

MORE INFO: MELBOURNE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

By Uber or Taxi

If you’re in a hurry and money is not an issue, you may take the taxi or Uber.

Uber is generally cheaper than taxi. I once tried taking a cab from Southern Cross to Central Station and I was charged A$ 10.60 for the ride. Another day, I used Uber on the same route and paid only A$ 8.60.

By Sightseeing Bus

Another way to get around Melbourne conveniently is by taking the Sightseeing Bus, which passes by 27 attractions throughout the city (including St. Kilda). As you go around, you can get more information about each stop with the audio commentary guide installed at each seat. If you feel like you want to explore a site further, you can hop off easily and just wait for the next sightseeing bus when you’re done.

There are two routes: Melbourne City Tour and St. Kilda Tour. You can switch to experience both, if you have the time. There are two variants available: 24-hour and 48-hour passes.

THINGS TO DO IN MELBOURNE

Great ocean road.

Melbourne is already my seventh destination in Australia but I have to say that the Great Ocean Road is one of the most breathtaking journeys I have taken. This 243-km road runs along the southern coast of Victoria, Australia. Constructed by soldiers from 1919 to 1932, it is the largest war memorial ever built in the world.

The Great Ocean Road starts from the city of Torquay and ends in Allansford, but tours usually culminate at the 12 Apostles site, a group of limestone isles at the Port Campbell National Park. The park and its spectacular views became the highlight of our entire trip. If you can do only one tour from Melbourne, make it this one!

I don’t think it’s ideal to do this by public transport, so you’re left with two options: by car or by group tour. If you know how to drive and you have a driving license, do it. Otherwise, join a group tour, like we did. (We don’t drive!)

The great thing about joining a group tour is you get to learn more about each stop. Along the way, you’ll drop by some scenic viewpoints and meet koalas and native birds like the Australian cockatoo!

Melbourne City Tour

The map of Melbourne’s city center is dotted with several historic landmarks and interesting spots including the following:

• Federation Square
• Melbourne Museum
• Old Melbourne Gaol

Queen Victoria Market

• Melbourne Zoo
• Fiztroy Gardens

You can go around in many ways. For short distances, you can simply walk or take the free tram. For longer distances, you may take the train or the bus, as detailed in the How to Get Around section above. Just enter the attraction or the nearest station on the PTV app and follow the directions.

You can also take the hop-on hop-off bus tour. The City Sightseeing Bus will take you to 27 spots around the Melbourne city center and St. Kilda. Booking a pass means you have unlimited access to this bus for 24 or 48 hours.

The Queen Victoria Market, aka Vic Market, is one of the most popular spots in Melbourne. At seven hectares occupying two blocks, this 19th century market is the largest market in the city and the largest open-air market in all of the Southern Hemisphere.

It is divided into several sections trading a smorgasbord of products — meat, deli, organics, and dry goods, to name some. There’s also a small food court within the complex. But the most popular section among tourists is the Dairy Produce Hall, where you can enjoy tasty international snacks. Here are some of the treats you shouldn’t miss.

• Borek Shop (Dairy Produce Hall). A borek is a Turkish delicacy which is basically baked filled pastry. The filling can be a number of ingredients, but here at Vic Market’s Borek Shop, they offer three versions: cheese and spinach, potato and vegies, and spicy lamb. Cheese-and-spinach seems to be the most popular, but I have a love-hate relationship with cheese, so we got the lamb borek. We loved it. My mom, especially. She even bought another one and took it back to our hotel. Haha. Price: A$4 each.
• Bratwurst Shop & Co. (Dairy Produce Hall). Bratwurst is a variety of German sausage traditionally made of veal or beef. Not sure what type of meat is used by this shop, but I think it’s beef and pork. They have a wide selection: spicy, mild, cheese, black pepper, weisswurst. The sausages are grilled nicely and then put in a roll. You also get to choose the trimmings including mustard and sauerkraut. Price: A$5 for the sausage only, A$5.80 with all the trimmings.
• American Doughnut Kitchen (Outside, Queen Street). This donut shop whips out jam-filled goodness, best enjoyed hot. After trying it, I even returned another day to have another dose of it. That’s how much I enjoyed these donuts! Set in a 1950s van, you’ll find it parked along Queen Street, right in front of the Organics section. It’s impossible to miss because of the long, long queue leading to it. Don’t worry because the line moves fast. Price: A$5.50 for 5 dougnuts.

Some months, they also open a Night Market at the same site, but this is not open year-round. Usually there’s one in winter.

You can totally do this on your own (as I did), but if you want to learn more about the market — historically and gastronomically — you can join a food tour!

Klook’s food tour includes not only the stroll but tasting some of the best that the market has to offer. You’ll also enjoy a glass of Victorian wine!

How to get to Queen Victoria Market: Ride a Yarra Tram (Route 19, 57, 58 or 59), which stops outside the Market. If you’re staying near Melbourne Central, you can just walk. It’s only a few blocks away. Operating hours: Tuesday, Thursday, 6am-2pm; Friday, 6-am-5pm; Saturday, 6am-3am; Sunday: 9am-4pm. Closed: Mondays, Wednesdays.

Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

Spinning slowly at the Docklands, the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel faces Port Phillip Bay. At 120 meters, its highest point offers wonderful 360-degree views of the harbor and the central business district. It is perfect for families.

Klook sells DISCOUNTED and skip-the-line tickets to this wheel. When you book with Klook, all you need to do is print out or save the voucher on your phone. No need to fall in line for tickets. No need to exchange it for another ticket. Just walk straight though the entrance and find the boarding queues. There are two lines: alcohol and non-alcohol. An in-cabin audio guide will add depth to your experience.

Eureka Skydeck

At 297m, the Eureka Tower is the tallest building in Melbourne and the second tallest building in Australia. Visitors may take the southern hemisphere’s speediest elevator to its observation deck, at 285 meters above ground, for a fantastic 360-degree view of the city.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can avail of the Skydeck+Edge package and stand on the glass floor!

How to get there: Take the train to Flinders Street Station then travel on foot over the bridge to the other side of the river. The walk should take about five minutes. Hours open: 10am – 10pm, daily. Last entry is 9:30pm.

Phillip Island

Phillip Island is situated southeast of Melbourne, over 3 hours away by train/bus or around 2 hours by car. As a tourist destination, it is best known for the nightly Penguin Parade, in which fairy penguins, walk on the shore in groups after a day of fishing. The fairy penguins are the smallest species of penguins in the world. It attracts about 3.5 million visitors every year.

Although it doesn’t look much on the map, Phillip Island is huge. Aside from the Phillip Island Nature Park, where the penguin parade happens, it is also home to the historic Churchill Heritage Farm, the Koala Conservation Centre, and the Seal Rocks, where you can see dozens of fur seals frolicking on the coast.

It’s easy to reach Phillip Island by public transportation. You can catch a V/L bus at Southern Cross Station going to Cowes, which is the main township of Phillip Island. ( Schedule here! ) But there’s a catch. The buses are few and far between. That’s not all.

‼️ IMPORTANT! Public transportation on the island is very limited, so it’s pretty difficult to get around. There is a taxi service, which is expensive. Moreover, the last bus back to Melbourne leaves Cowes at around 6:30pm. It’s a problem if you plan to watch the penguin parade, which is the highlight of any Phillip Island visit. The parade happens at sunset, which is sometime between 5:30pm in summer and 8:45 in winter. Cowes and the Penguin Parade area are 20-30 minutes apart so even in summer, it is unlikely that you’ll catch the last bus out. Some visitors choose to just stay overnight in Cowes.

If you don’t want to stay overnight in Phillip Island, you can rent a car or join a group tour instead. Driving on your own is the most ideal so you have total control of your car. You can even drop by St. Kilda or Brighton Beach along the way. But if you can’t drive or you don’t have a license, you can join a group tour instead. Some tours also make a stop at Brighton Beach.

There are many Phillip Island offers on Klook but I’ve narrowed it down to only two. (See links below.)

The first link will take you to the Klook page where you can book DISCOUNTED attraction tickets only, no transfers, good for those with their own ride. The second link will take you to the DISCOUNTED DAY TOUR page. It’s a guided day tour package inclusive of transfers to and from Melbourne, hotel pick up and drop off, and a guide-driver service. The tour also stops at Brighton Beach where you can see their famous colorful beach boxes.

Werribee Open Range Zoo

We had to choose between Melbourne Zoo and the Werribee Open Range Zoo, and we chose the latter. Although both are managed by Zoos Victoria, the Werribee Open Range Zoo is much, much larger. It’s vast, spanning 225 hectares of land next to Werribee River, giving the animals plenty of space to move around.

The Australian Journey Walk will lead you to the kangaroos, emus, and koalas. But the rest of the site is impossible to be explored on foot. You can take the FREE safari bus tour to see much of the site. Yep, the bus tour is already covered by the entrance fee. Multiple tours happen a day. You just need to show up and queue up at the Safari Station. From the main entrance, turn right — multiple times a day. Along the way, you’ll spot dozens of animals including rhinoceros, hippopotamus, ostrich and zebra.

If you want to take your experience to the next level, you can join an off-road safari tour . This is different from the bus tour, which follows a fixed path. The off-road tour uses a smaller open vehicle that goes off the trail and much closer to the animals. This tour happens only twice a day so if you choose to do this, make sure you make it to the zoo in time for your schedule.

Klook offers both discounted entry tickets and the off-road safari tour. The cost of the off-road tour already covers the entrance fee so you DON’T need to book separate tickets.

How to get to Werribee Zoo: From Melbourne CBD, take the train to Werribee Station (A$ 4.40). Outside the station, you’ll immediately find the bus stop. Catch Bus 439 Werribee South and alight in front of Werribee Zoo. Note that there’s only one bus per hour. First bus leaves Werribee Station at around 6am, last bus around 7pm. See updated schedule here . (Click To Werribee South !) Hours open: 9am-5pm, daily. Entrance fee: Adult, A$38; Child 4-15yo, FREE on weekends/holidays, A$19 on weekdays.

Brighton Beach

Although located 14 km south of the city center, Brighton Beach has become an icon for Melbourne. Thanks to its 82 brightly painted and uniformly shaped bathing boxes! Along with St. Kilda, this is one of the most accessible beaches from the city so you can come here to swim, lounge on the sand, or simply admire the view. There are also cafes around the area.

How to get to Brighton Beach: From Melbourne CBD, hop on the train on the Sandringham Line and get off at Middle Brighton Station. From here, it’s a 15-minute walk to the Brighton Bathing Boxes.

St. Kilda is a suburb located 6km southeast of Melbourne CBD. It has emerged as the city’s backpacking district because it has the right ingredients — exciting nightlife, accessible beach, and a wide array of budget-friendly hostels, restaurants, and cafes. Key tourist sites include Luna Park and the Sunday art market.

You can explore St. Kilda on your own by using the public transportation. You can also use the City Sightseeing Bus (hop-on hop-off service), which also plies a St. Kilda route, stopping at major attractions in the city.

Other Melbourne Attractions

• Old Melbourne Gaol. Standing along Russel Street, this museum used to be a prison, where 135 people, including some of Australia’s most notorious criminals, were executed by hanging. Today, you can also do a ghost tour of the premises. Entrance Fee: A$28. Hours open: 9:30am — 5pm. Last entry: 3:30pm.

SAMPLE MELBOURNE ITINERARY

Here’s a sample 5-day Melbourne itinerary. This assumes the following:

• You’re arriving at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport.
• You’re staying at a hostel in the city center for A$30 per night.
• Your hostel has a shared kitchen where you can prepare your breakfast and dinner. For lunches, you can eat out with a budget of A$15 per meal.
• Prices below are in Australian dollars.

Note that the times here are just estimates, for sample purposes only. Actual times may vary so double check before your trip.

Feel free to change anything in the itinerary in order to match your preferences or flight schedule.

DAY 4 – BRIGHTON BEACH & ST. KILDA 07:00 am – Train to Middle Brighton Station, A$8.80 (whole day) 07:41 am – Walk to Brighton Bathing Boxes 08:00 am – Enjoy the beach, explore nearby sites 10:00 am – Train + tram to St. Kilda 10:36 am – Explore St. Kilda Beach 11:30 am – Lunch, A$15 12:15 am – Continue exploring St. Kilda 02:00 pm – Luna Park, A$22 (2 rides only) 04:00 pm – Tram back to Melbourne 05:00 pm – Explore Melbourne CBD, buy souvenirs 07:00 pm – Back to hotel, dinner

DAY 5 – DEPARTURE 04:00 am – Check out 04:37 am – SkyBus to Melbourne Airport 05:10 am – Arrival at airport 05:20 am – Flight check-in 08:00 am – Flight out

If you follow the itinerary above, prepare to shell out at least AUD 415 (PHP 14800, SGD 393, USD 290, EUR 257) per person excluding accommodations, airfare, travel tax, and shopping expenses.

If you’re able to book $30-accommodations, the itinerary will cost you AUD 535 (PHP 19100, SGD 507, USD 373, EUR 331) per person excluding airfare, accommodations, travel tax, and shopping expenses.

We added a little bit of extra allowance to cover incidental expenses, price adjustments, and other costs we might have missed.

There are many ways to reduce the budget. If you’re a group, you can split some of the costs. If one of you can drive and has a license, you can also save a lot by renting a car instead of joining the Great Ocean Road Tour.

More budget tips in the next section.

OTHER MELBOURNE TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Book a hostel with an open kitchen so you can prepare your meals on your own. On your first day, hit the grocery and shop for ingredients or ready-to-eat food. I usually buy bread and some filling, and it lasts for days. Doing this can drastically reduce your food expenses.
• If booking a hotel, choose one with a ref and microwave. You can buy cooked food items at the grocery too. Sometimes, I would purchase a pack of ready-to-eat chicken wings then I put the leftovers in the ref and just reheat it.
• If you must eat out, do so for lunch. Often, you’ll be out exploring in the day anyway. They have your dinner at the hostel/hotel. Note also that Australian servings are huge. You can just buy one and share.
• For dinner, you can also visit food courts at closing time (around 8pm). They usually pre-pack the last servings of the day and put them on sale. At Melbourne Central, many of the shops sell 2 rice meals or noodles with protein for only A$10. Yep, that’s only $5 each. But it only happens at closing time.
• Melbourne tap water is potable. You don’t need to purchase bottled water. Just bring a reusable water bottle with you and refill whenever you’re back at the hotel. A small bottled water costs A$4 at restaurants. If you must buy bottled water, drop by a grocery store or supermarket and buy a big bottle instead, which costs only $1.5-2.5.
• For souvenirs, you can find cheap ref magnets and keychains at specialty shopping section of the Queen Victoria Market. Ref magnets are at A$4 per pack or A$10 per 3 packs. Each pack contains 4-12 pieces.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MELBOURNE

Is melbourne safe.

Melbourne is a low-risk destination. Australia in general is one of the safest in the world.

Like most big cities around the globe, pickpocketing and transport accidents can happen, so you must never be careless. But if you’re worried about violent crimes, while it’s there, it doesn’t happen all the time. Just practice common sense, keep your valuables with you, and don’t invite trouble.

Do we need a visa to visit Melbourne?

Australia requires all visiting foreigners to have a visa, e-visa, electronic travel authority (ETA), or similar document. The only exception are the citizens of New Zealand, which can avail of a Special Category Visa (SCV) which can be obtained upon arrival.

Thankfully, nationals of several countries (including the Philippines) can apply for a visa online. It’s easy to apply. Here’s our step-by-step guide: AUSTRALIAN VISA REQUIREMENTS!

Are Immigration and Customs in Melbourne strict?

Yes. Immigration and Customs officers in Australia in general are very strict. Make sure you’re not bringing in any prohibited items or undeclared regulated items. They often do thorough baggage inspection. Aside from using sniff dogs, they may also require you to open your bags and show the content to them.

Cigarettes and food served to you on your flight are PROHIBITED.

Most food items must also be declared.

To check whether or not the item you’re bringing with you is allowed, visit this page: Australian Border Force .

When is the best time to visit Melbourne?

First of all, Australia is in the Southern hemisphere, so Australians enjoy summer in December-February and winter in June-August.

The amount of rainfall is pretty consistent year round, but the period between June and November gets drenched the most. Summer is the driest, but downpours are not uncommon even in these months.

Hence, the best time depends on the activities you want to enjoy. If you like the beach or you’re feeling festive, summer is a good time to visit. It’s also when the Australian Open happens. However, it is also the peak season so expect most attractions to be crowded and cost of almost everything to be higher than usual.

If you’re on a budget winter is okay because airfare and accommodation rates fall.

I personally prefer traveling to Australia in the shoulder periods: autumn (March-May) and spring (October-November). The temperatures are pleasant — not too hot, not too cold — and prices are great.

What type of power plug / socket is used in Melbourne?

Is Melbourne expensive? What are the usual costs of common items?

The cost of living in Australia in general is pretty high. Melbourne is not an exception. Here are the usual costs (in Australian dollars):

• Meal without drink from budget restaurant: $10-15
• Meal without drink from mid-range restaurant: $15-20
• Meal with drink from fast food chain: $10-20
• Fried rice from restaurants: $6-10
• Bottled water (350mL) from restaurant: $4
• Bottled water (1.5L) from grocery: $2
• Tram/Train/Bus fare: $4.40
• Coffee: $4-5
• Beer from restaurant: $10
• Beer from grocery: $5-6
• Bread (500g): $3-5

What is the tipping custom in Melbourne?

You don’t need to tip. Tipping isn’t obligatory in Melbourne or anywhere in Australia.

But if you can if you enjoyed the service! 5% is safe. For exceptional service, 10% should suffice. You can also just round off the bill.

What is the escalator etiquette in Melbourne?

Stand on the left, walk on the right.

Where is the best place to exchange money in Melbourne?

I spotted a lot of money changers around the Central area, and the rates aren’t that bad when I checked.

However, I still prefer just making withdrawals from an ATM. If you have Maestro, Cirrus, Visa, MasterCard Debit cards, you can withdraw from ATMs. Or before your flight, go to your local bank and buy AUDs.

What is better: Sydney or Melbourne?

Never been to Sydney (yet) so I can’t compare. But I know one thing: I love Melbourne. It is perhaps my favorite Australian city so far!

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣ • 7️⃣ • 3️⃣

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Thanks for this Yosh! Been waiting for this.

No prob! Took me a long time to finish it, haha. Hope you find it useful! :)

Hi Sir Yosh! How did you get connected while in Melbourne? Did you buy local sim card or rented a pocket wifi? Thanks po in advance.

Great article. Thanks for sharing.

Have a great day.

Hey ! thanks for such a great post.and many interesting point are cover in this blog. and this post is helpful for me . again thanks for a posting a interesting artical…

Love that you have stuff on Australia. I have a list of things to do with kids for free in melbourne, but I’m excited to try the grown ups list! :)

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Your Trip to Melbourne: The Complete Guide

Marina is a freelance writer who began contributing to TripSavvy in 2019. She set off with a one-way ticket to Asia in 2017 and has been living and traveling abroad ever since.

The culinary and sports capital of Australia, Melbourne is also a great city to catch live music, theatre performances, and comedy shows. Plus, shopping here is on a whole other level. On top of all that, this city is the perfect place to make your base as you explore the rest of Victoria for hiking, camping, and wine. Did you catch all of that? No worries, mate. Here’s your complete guide to Melbourne to help you plan the perfect trip. 

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: If you’re looking for hot temperatures and a lineup of things to do, then consider visiting during the summer months, between December and February. Yes, the city will be more crowded with international and domestic travelers, but summer is also when the city comes to life with festivals, events, rooftop bars, and things to do. While the other months of the year will be less crowded, the weather is hit and miss.
• Language: English, though Melbourne is the most linguistically diverse Australian capital city with 32 percent of residents speaking a language other than English.  
• Currency: Australian dollar
• Getting Around: The Public Transport Victoria’s train and tram lines are the cheapest and quickest ways to get around. You’ll need to purchase a myki card to get onto trains and trams, which can be bought at 7-Eleven stores or on myki machines at train stations. Next, you need to load the card with a certain amount of money to get from A to B. You can do this at the myki machine.
• Travel Tip: Metro police conduct random checks on every train to see if passengers paid for their ride. If you don’t tap on before entering the platform and an officer catches you, you'll be fined AS$248 which you have 28 days to pay.   So don’t skip on paying for public transportation!

Things to Do

No trip to Melbourne would be complete without visiting Queen Victoria Market, sipping coffee, exploring the laneways, or checking out a game at Melbourne Cricket Ground. If the weather is beautiful and you have time, you should take a day trip to the Yarra Valley wine region or the Great Ocean Road.

• To get acquainted with Melbourne, take a walking tour of the Central Business District. Opt for one that will guide you through the laneways and arcades filled with street art, boutique shops, and hidden bars. 
• There’s a lot of fuss around the city’s coffee culture. Decide for yourself if Melbourne has the best coffee in the world by stopping at Axil Coffee Roasters , Higher Ground , or St. Ali Coffee Roasters .  
• Shop for souvenirs at Queen Victoria Market . It’s a landmark in the city that hosts a variety of Australian produce, food, and products. 

Explore more attractions with our article on the top 20 things to do in Melbourne .

What to Eat and Drink

As we mentioned before, Melbourne is the food capital of Australia. So what makes Melbourne cuisine stand out? Its chefs and bakers upgrade regular food staples with an Australian flare. For instance, Aussies love their beetroot, so we recommend trying the True Blue Beetroot burger from YOMG . If you want to get in on the Golden Gaytime action (it is Melbourne's favorite ice cream treat, after all) order a Gaytime crunch doughnut from Bistro Morgan.

Melbourne’s beer and wine scene are top-notch as well. There are a bunch of breweries located within the city and its surrounding neighborhoods. Check out Carlton Brewhouse , Colonial Brewing Co. , and Mountain Goat Beer to learn about Melbourne’s beer scene. When it comes to wine, this city thrives. Wine regions surround Melbourne. Yarra Valley is the closest to the CBD and produces excellent Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Shiraz. When ordering wine from a menu at a restaurant or bar in Melbourne, try wines from the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, or Macedon Ranges regions.

There are a lot of different types of bars in Melbourne, including rooftop, cocktail, and karaoke bars; speakeasies; and pubs. The only thing you really won’t find is a traditional sports bars, with football, basketball, or baseball playing on monitors across every inch of the pub. For a classic cocktail bar, check out The Everleigh . If it’s a clear night, walk up to Rooftop Bar for wild cocktails and an open-air cinema. 

Explore our articles on Melbourne's top restaurants and foods you absolutely need to try during your visit.

Where to Stay

When thinking about the best places to stay in Melbourne, consider where you’ll be spending most of your time and what types of activities you want to do. If you love being in the center of the action, opt to stay in Melbourne CBD. It’s the most central location, with walkable streets and easy access to public transportation. 

Within the CBD, you’ll find every type of accommodation according to your budget, including hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and couch surfing. Making the CBD your base means you’ll have direct access to the best shopping, food, sports, and nightlife that Melbourne has to offer. Plus, from here you can easily explore the surrounding neighborhoods and parts of regional Victoria. 

If you’d prefer to stay outside of the big city, consider St Kilda. It’s by the beach and slightly cheaper than staying in the CBD. St Kilda is a popular hub for backpackers as there are many budget-friendly hostels in this neighborhood. There are also plenty of funky Airbnbs with the bonus of being next to the beach. Plus, it’s only a 20-minute tram ride from Melbourne CBD, so it's not too far from the center of the city.

Getting There

Melbourne Airport is the main hub for domestic and international travelers flying into and out of the city. The cheapest and most convenient way to get from the airport to Melbourne CBD is by SkyBus . It’s a 30 to 40-minute direct ride to Southern Cross Station, and it costs AU$19.75 for a one-way ticket. It’s not necessary to rent a car to explore Melbourne as public transportation is a cheap, clean, and reliable mode of transportation.

Culture and Customs 

Australian culture, in general, is very diverse. It’s home to the Aboriginal Indigenous community who have been living in Australia for at least 45,000 years though some scholars place estimates at 75,000-80,000 years  . This culture varies throughout the continent. You won’t find many Aboriginal communities in Melbourne since they tend to call the warmer climates of Queensland and Northern Territory home.  

European and British immigrants influenced the city of Melbourne during the 1850s Victorian gold rush. Today, the city is a major cultural hub, with large Italian, Greek, Chinese, and African migrant communities. It’s kind of like New York City in the sense that it’s a melting pot of people from all over the world.  

Australian slang is never easy to understand. For a quick lesson, “arvo” means “afternoon,” “chook” means “chicken,” “devo” means “devastated,” and “legless” means “someone who is really drunk.” There are different accents across the country.

In terms of customs, men and women are treated equally, and people are free to live where they like and follow whichever religion and occupation they choose. When you greet another Australian, it’s common to shake a person’s right hand. Go to a gas station, and you will pay after you fill up your tank. For ordering at restaurants, you usually pay first at the counter before you sit down. A server will bring the food to you, and tipping isn’t required. 

It’s known throughout the country that Melburnians are coffee snobs. They’re very particular about their coffee and might go so far as to say that it’s the best in the world

In terms of sports, Melbourne hosts several international sporting events throughout the year—including the Australian Open and Formula 1 Grand Prix —as well as local Australian Football League and National Rugby League games. The Melbourne Cricket Grounds is the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere.

Australia is generally a safe country, particularly in Melbourne. However, keep in mind that it’s always important to be aware of your safety when you travel. 

Money-Saving Tips 

• Search for restaurants that offer BYOB. Chinatown and St Kilda are excellent spots for cheap eats.
• Opt to stay in a hostel; most hostels offer private rooms and dorms. 
• Skip car rentals, taxis, and ride-sharing apps. Melbourne has a reliable, clean, and safe public transportation system that will get you where you need to go. As a bonus, you can ride the tram for free within Melbourne CBD.
• Want to check out a theater performance? TodayTix offers last-minute, discounted tickets, and Tixel is a ticket resale website. 
• There are plenty of free things to do in the city that include entry into the National Gallery of Victoria, a walk in the Royal Botanic Gardens, watching fairy penguins at St. Kilda pier, and browsing through the city's markets.
• Take a free walking tour of Melbourne to get acquainted with the city. A guide will explain the city’s art, cafe culture, and laneways.
• You can watch live music for free at Northcote Social Club on Monday nights.
• If you’re a student, flash that student ID! Most attractions (museums, theater tickets, public transportation, movie tickets) offer discounts to students.

 .id - The Population Experts. "Greater Melbourne: Language Spoken at Home." 2016.

Victoria State Government Department of Transport. "Public Transport Fines."

Encyclopedia Britannica. "Australian Aboriginal Peoples."

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Melbourne – Best Things To Do, See & Much More

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A Brief History of Melbourne

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As the sporting and cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne has plenty to offer visitors from all over the world. From the rooftop bars and designer boutiques that give the city a cosmopolitan feel, to its plentiful array of historical buildings and landmarks — Melbourne has something new to discover on every corner. You can immerse yourself in Melbourne’s rich Victorian heritage at the Royal Exhibition Building, one of the oldest remaining exhibition pavilions in the world. Or walk a mile in the shoes of the early western settlers, who found themselves paying for their crimes in the eerie but fascinating Melbourne Gaol.

Step straight back into the 21st century at the Scienceworks with plenty of interactive exhibits that link Melbourne’s industry, heritage, and applied technology in one place. Or enjoy the wonderful collection of museums and art galleries dotted throughout the city.

If food is your thing, Melbourne will certainly not disappoint. From traditional Aussie fare to cool contemporary cuisine, there’s a wealth of restaurants, cafes, bistros, and bars to keep your taste buds tempted. A nice cool beer is always on the menu, and so are some of the finest wines in Australia, many of which are produced in the neighboring wine regions and breweries of Victoria.

The city of Melbourne was first founded on the Yarra River in 1835 and went on to enjoy significant growth up until 1850, despite remaining a relatively rural settlement. The Gold Rush in 1851, however, totally transformed the area from a colony of smallholdings into a hotbed of immigration and development, which would later establish Melbourne as Australia’s major financial center.

The State of Victoria saw a major influx of new settlers all looking to strike gold! With them came a steady flow of provisions for housing, food, and mining equipment, which helped over £100 million worth of gold to be plucked from the region in the 1850s alone. With Victoria now being a very wealthy colony, the fortunes of the new Victorians flourished.

The International Exhibition of 1880 placed Melbourne firmly on the map as an important trade center for wool, wheat, and other agricultural products, as well as being Australia’s most refined city.

Despite suffering during the depression of the 1930s, the city rose again in the mid to late 20th century, becoming home to headquarters operations for a lot of the country’s largest companies (many of whom are still based in the city today). Now a culturally diverse city offering some of the best living standards throughout Australia, Melbourne has come a long way from its humble rural roots.

Tip: Flying to Australia? We’ve created a super in-depth guide on the best ways to fly to Australia using points and miles.  

Melbourne is Australia’s second largest city and is considered by many to be the cultural and sporting capital of Australia. For all of its fine restaurants, elegant buildings and historically important landmarks, the city is also extremely welcoming and has a multicultural feel that appeals to most visitors.

If you’d like to know some useful facts and figures before you visit, here are a few to get you going:

Population: 4.8 million

Area (including greater metropolitan area): 9,992.5 square kilometers

Official Language: English

Other Languages Spoken: Melbourne is home to residents from all over the world, and as many as 251 languages can be heard throughout the city every day.

Religion: The major religion of the country is Christianity. In Melbourne this is broken down into the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican Church, Eastern Orthodox, and the Uniting churches.

Current Prime Minister: Malcolm Turnbull

Time Zone: The standard time zone for Melbourne is UTC+10:00 (Coordinated Universal Time), changing to UTC+11:00 when daylight savings time (DST) is in operation.

Currency: Australian Dollar AUD

Country Dialing Code Prefix: +61

Emergency Numbers: Dial 000 and ask for the service you require (police, fire service, or ambulance service)

Open space: 9% (including parks and gardens)

Taxi Cabs: 7,544

Cafes and Restaurants: 2,336

Beaches: Over 30 designated public beaches plus many more private inlets and coastal spaces.

Australia may well be the smallest continent on Earth, but it is a vast region surrounded by water on all sides. Most visitors reach Australia by air, and flight times can be pretty long even from neighboring countries.

Flying Into Melbourne

Opened in the 1970s, Melbourne Airport (also known as Tullamarine Airport) is the only international airport serving the city of Melbourne , and the second busiest airport in Australia .

Avalon Airport, Essendon Airport, and Moorabbin Airport also service the city, but are limited to internal or cargo flights only.

Tullamarine Airport provides international flights to destinations all over the world and is serviced by the following airlines:

Air Asia, Aircalin, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air Mauritius, Air New Zealand, Air Vanuatu, Capital Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Emirates, Etihad, Fiji Airlines, Garuda Indonesia Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Japan Airlines, Jetstar Airlines, Latam Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Qantas Airways, Royal Brunei Airlines, Scoot, Sichuan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines, Thai Airlines, United Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Virgin Australia, Xiamen Air

Once you’ve landed on Australian shores, finding your way to the city of Melbourne is quite straightforward.

Traveling From the Airport to the City

Melbourne Airport offers a dedicated shuttle service from the terminal to the city itself. The SkyBus is the main airport shuttle, which leaves from 2 locations outside the terminals and operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. SkyBus runs to and from Southern Cross Station and leaves every 10 minutes for most of the day.

Tickets are $19 one-way or $38 return for adults; up to 4 children can travel for free. The journey time is usually between 20-40 minutes depending on traffic.

There are other shuttle buses available that run directly to some of the inner-city hotels. Prices range from $18-$25 depending on destination, and there is no need to change buses at Southern Cross Station.

Public transport can also take you from the airport into the CBD (Central Business District). Using a low-cost myki card, you can enjoy a leisurely route on both the train and the bus to reach your accommodation. The 901 bus to Broadmeadows station will let you catch a train for the remaining 40-minute trip to Flinders Street in the CBD. Services run at 15-minute intervals during the week, and every half hour at night and on weekends. Costs vary depending on your destination.

There are currently no direct train links between Melbourne Airport and the city center. If you do want to take the train, you would need to hop on the 901 bus to Broadmeadows Station and then catch the Craigieburn Line train into the city center. You’d need to allow well over an hour for this journey.

There are plenty of taxis located in designated ranks outside the exits of Melbourne Airport. The journey can take anywhere between 40-60 minutes (or sometimes more during busy periods), and it will cost you around $60 for a single journey.

You can pre-book a taxi to pick up you and your luggage from inside the airport if this is simpler. Taxi services like rideways.com and taxicode.com will allow you to book your pickup online.

Uber drivers also operate in and around Melbourne, and you can arrange your pickup simply by using the app on your Smartphone.

Trams are a major form of public transportation in Melbourne, with a network covering over 250 kilometers in the metro area. The City Trams are free, but they don’t extend all they way to the airport. You would need to reach Southern Cross station before enjoying a tram ride or 2.

Once you’ve arrived in the city, there are plenty of options for affordable, reliable, and easily accessible public transportation.

To travel on the Melbourne bus system, you’ll need to purchase a myki card. These cost $6 for adults and $3 for children, and they need to keep a positive balance in order for you to travel. Your myki card can be topped up at over 800 retailers throughout the city. Alternatively, you can purchase a myki explorer pack that combines a ready-to-use myki card with helpful information and special offers for visitors to the city. When you leave, you can even donate your myki card to charity.

Buses run all over the city from around 6:00am until 9:00pm most days, and the Night Network runs all night metropolitan trains, trams, and late night buses on weekends.

You can find more information about bus routes and timetables at Public Transport Victoria .

Trams have been an iconic sight in the city since 1885, and the network now offers over 490 trams covering 24 routes and 1,763 tram stops. It is the largest urban tramway network in the world…and better still, the City Tram Zone is entirely free to travel on! This makes it a great way to explore the inner-city areas. Trams run most days from 8:45am until around 4:00pm.

Again, further details on tram routes and timetables can be found at Public Transport Victoria .

Taxis and Ubers are also plentiful on the streets of Melbourne, and you can hail a car, pick one up at a designated taxi rank, or pre-book a trip online. Melbourne taxis display a light on top of the cab roof and are usually painted yellow, silver, or white. Drivers are required to wear a uniform in the city and display an identity card on the dashboard at all times.

Information about taxi firms, fares, and regulations can be found at the Taxi Services Commission website.

Melbourne’s metro trains run between the outer suburbs and Flinders Street Station. The City Loop is Melbourne’s very own underground system; although small, it offers quick and easy access to 5 stations within the central business district. If you want to travel further into the suburbs or out into Victoria, Southern Cross Station is the main hub for both regional and interstate rail services in and out of Melbourne. You can use your myki card on trains covering the metro area, but trains into the suburbs and beyond will need additional tickets.

For more information about ticketing, fares, and timetables, visit the Public Transport Victoria website.

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Melbourne is collection of different neighborhoods, each one bringing their own unique character and charm into the city. To really get to know Melbourne, spend some time moving between the different suburbs and developing a real taste for the Melbourne way of life.

Melbourne CBD

The Central Business District (or CBD) is the beating heart of the city of Melbourne. From the open spaces, royal gardens, and docklands eateries to the high-end shopping opportunities in Bourke Street Mall and the Melbourne Centre, the city has plenty to see and do. With first class restaurants, cool cafes, boutiques, and old arcades on every corner, a day spent exploring the CBD is a day well spent.

If you want to step back in time, the Old Melbourne Gaol and the Melbourne Aquarium sit nestled among the modern commercial buildings, adding gravity to the district. Meanwhile, the museums and galleries of Federation Square add grandeur. Students, families , and travelers are often seen mixing with commuters on their lunch hours — the CBD is open to everybody.

Where to stay:

• The Langham
• Mercure Welcome

An inner suburb of Melbourne, St Kilda is a beachside neighborhood frequented by backpackers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors. From the glorious mansions of days gone by to the historic Sea Baths and wild rides at Luna Park, St Kilda has a traditional seaside resort feel about it.

Sip coffee on the sea front while you watch the yachts sail by, or sample some of the great cake shops to be found on Acland and Carlisle streets. When night falls, the area’s pubs and music venues fill up with loud music and late night revelers.

• The Blackman
• Melbourne Parkview

Carlton is well known for the wide selection of cafes and restaurants tucked within the Lygon Street Italian precinct, giving this area the local moniker of “Little Italy.” It is also home to the historic Melbourne General Cemetery and Princes Park, playground for Melbourne’s very own Carlton Football Club.

With plenty of leafy avenues and open spaces to enjoy, Carlton Gardens themselves contain the contemporary Melbourne Museum and the domed 19th Century Royal Exhibition Building that has World Heritage status. Carlton is vibrant and friendly, with a truly cosmopolitan feel.

• Carlton Terrace
• Rydges on Swanston
• Best Western Plus

Fitzroy is home to all things alternative in the city of Melbourne. If something is cool and kooky, you can find it here. Secondhand book stalls, vintage clothing stores, quirky boutiques, and independent retailers can all be seen on Brunswick Street. Or stop for a bite in any of the awe-inspiring vegan, vegetarian, or alternative cafes and restaurants dotting the area.

Fitzroy is renowned throughout the whole of Australia for its street art, music scene, and bohemian feel, and it is also the main home of Melbourne’s Fringe Festival . Come and enjoy cocktails with the cool creatives just a short bus ride from the CBD.

• Quest Royal Gardens
• Melbourne Metropole Central

Richmond is a multicultural suburb that welcomes residents from all over the world. It’s best known for Victoria Street, or “Little Saigon,” which is brimming with Asian grocery stores and eateries serving pho and bánh mì. If you’re looking to grab a bargain, the Bridge Road factory outlets offer great valuing clothing, furniture, and design stores.

Many of the historic old buildings that formerly filled the area have been given a new lease on life as cool bars and happening music venues. A little rough around the edges, Richmond has a young but edgy vibe.

• Andre’s Mews
• Richmond Hill Hotel

Williamstown

Williamstown is a highly desirable suburb to visit, and it gets pretty busy all year round. Located right on the waterfront, Williamstown offers a rare combination of open spaces, good facilities, and a wide variety of options all within easy reach of the CBD.

It has lots of residential areas, so Williamstown is a nice place to stop for coffee or ice cream, and the area has a safe, welcoming feel to it. Parking is a nightmare though, and everywhere from the beach to the street can be packed on weekends.

• Quest Williamstown
• Punthill Apartment Hotel

South Yarra

South Yarra is an upmarket suburb of the city that is popular with aspirational professionals and young families. Art deco apartments facing the Yarra are highly sought after, as are well-preserved mansions like the famous Como House.

The streets here are filled with swanky boutiques, fine restaurants, art galleries, and cocktail bars, and Toorak Road or Chapel Street are the places to see and be seen. The Royal Botanic Gardens meet South Yarra at its most northerly point, making them the perfect place to enjoy a jog or picnic away from the apartments and nearby streets.

• Oaks South Yarra
• Hotel Claremont

The Docklands area of the city has been heavily regenerated over the past 20 years and is now a contemporary development full of high-rise apartments and office blocks. Dominated by the colorful Melbourne Star Observation Wheel that keeps a watchful eye over proceedings, the area is now full of big-name shops and ample opportunities for waterside dining.

Pedestrianized plazas are family friendly, and there are public murals, sculptures, and light displays to enjoy. This area is mostly a resort destination, but has a family feel encouraged by visitors coming to see sporting events at Etihad Stadium or enjoy Harbor Town’s mini-golf and sports car simulators.

• Crowne Plaza
• Vibe Savoy Hotel
• The Great Southern Hotel

Situated on the waterfront, Southbank is renowned for great restaurants, amazing public art displays, and upmarket shopping opportunities. The crowds here are sophisticated and worldly; they come to enjoy cultural venues like the Malthouse Theatre (based in a restored brewery) and the state-of-the-art Melbourne Recital Centre’s classical concerts.

The Crown Casino Complex is also nearby, making it a popular part of the city for high rollers. If you want to ensure you’re caught looking super-cool, check out the many al fresco fine dining experiences on the promenade, or spend your night sipping craft beer in a cargo shed.

• Crown Metropol
• Travelodge Hotel Southbank
• Urban Central

For the upwardly mobile and culturally aware, Brunswick offers a laid-back multicultural vibe that is popular with the young, alternative crowd. With plenty of live music venues, upbeat pubs, and beer gardens to choose from, Brunswick is not just a night out: it’s a lifestyle. At the heart of the area lies the Sydney Road, with all its Middle Eastern and Mediterranean eateries, unusual stores, quirky cafes, and lounge bars. Consider this area hipster heaven for Melbourne.

• Best Western
• Victoria Hotel
• Dolma Hotel

Hot Tip: If you enjoy unique accommodations, check out these boutique hotels in Melbourne .

As with most large cities, there are lots of things to do in Melbourne. Here are 10 of the top attractions you definitely should try to see on your trip.

1. Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Opened in 1846 and spread over 89 acres, the Gardens offer a slice of paradise within the city, as well as providing a home to over 8,500 species of plants and the wildlife that coexist with them. For a relaxing day out and a real feel for Australia in times gone by, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria can’t be beaten.

Visit: Open daily from 7:30am to sunset. Entry is free.

Get There: Use tram stop 19, which is the Shrine of Remembrance/St Kilda Rd stop. Via bus, take Route 605 to Melbourne Observatory/Birdwood Avenue.

2. Eureka Skydeck 88

Ride the fastest elevator in the southern hemisphere to the 88 th floor for unparalleled views over Melbourne from the Eureka Skydeck 88 . If that doesn’t impress you, try The Edge , a glass-covered cube that dangles you 300 meters over the city. If you don’t want to enjoy the breathtaking views while suspended in a large transparent box, there is also a nice coffee shop for a more relaxed option.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am. The Skydeck costs $20 and The Edge costs $12.

Get There: Flinders Street train station is just a 5-minute walk over the Yarra River

3. Federation Square

Federation Square is a large mixed-use area in the heart of Melbourne. Packed with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars, it also includes shops selling everything from groceries to souvenirs to high-end fashion. The Square makes a great meeting place in the center of the city, and it’s also home to a wide variety of pop-up shows and exhibitions. Federation Square has a creative program that showcases talent all year round.

Visit: Open 24 hours a day

Get There: Flinders Street train station is the nearest stop; it’s practically right on top of the square.

4. Southbank and Arts Centre Melbourne

Instantly recognizable with its 162-meter spire, the Arts Centre opened in 1982 and is now home to Melbourne’s ballet, opera, theatre, and everything else artistic and creative. The centre often holds outdoor concerts set against the skyscrapers of downtown Melbourne, with lights that dance to the music. With plenty of free entertainment and a full program of events throughout the year, the Southbank and the Arts Centre are always worth a visit.

Visit: Open 7 days a week from early morning to late evening

Get There: Use tram stop 14, Arts Precinct

5. National Gallery of Victoria

Opened in 1968, the National Gallery of Victoria (or NGV) is Australia’s oldest, largest, and most visited art museum. It houses works from across the art world, including Picasso, Monet, Rubens, and many others. For art lovers, the NGV is a must-see.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Entry is free.

6. Melbourne Cricket Ground

Visit the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground , or “G” as it’s known locally, and take a tour of the impressive stadium, with its vast dressing rooms and adjoining function suites. Have a look to see what’s on at the G when you’re there, as it might be something you’d hate to miss — tickets for many events (including cinema screenings) are easily available.

Visit: Tours are 75 minutes and run between 10:00am and 3:00pm daily. Tickets start around $25, depending on the level of tour you choose.

Get There: Use the tram stop MCG – Hisense Arena/Melbourne Park

7. Melbourne Museum

Opened in 2000, the Melbourne Museum is the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. The sprawling complex contains various exhibits, from natural history to cultural displays as well as cinemas, cafes, an amphitheater, and much, much more.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and free for kids.

Get There: On the tram, take route 86 to the corner of Nicholson and Gertrude Streets. By bus, use the Rathdowne Street stop.

8. Captain Cook’s Cottage

Built in 1755, Captain Cook’s Cottage is the oldest building in Australia. It was transported brick by brick from England to Melbourne in 1934. Today, it serves as a historical and cultural center and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country.

Visit: Open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Tickets cost $6.50 for adults.

Get There: By tram, use route 48 and get off at Wellington Parade

9. Shrine of Remembrance

Built in 1934, the Shrine of Remembrance is the Victoria state memorial to Australians who served in global conflicts throughout the nation’s history. Inspired by classical architecture, the Shrine was designed and built by WWI veterans. Special exhibitions and events are held throughout the year, providing an ever-changing experience.

Visit: Tours available daily from the visitor’s center at 11:00am and 12:45pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

Get There: Take tram route 21 to Dallas Brooks Dr/Domain Rd

10. Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

An easy one to spot, the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel stands next to the river and affords amazing views over the city. Flights last 30 minutes and can range from a simple sightseeing trip to a champagne trip, or even a wedding in your own private cabin.

Visit: Open 11:00am to 7:00pm (May to August); 11:00am to 10:00pm (September to April). Prices start at $16.50.

Get There: Take the tram route 86, Bourne Street

If you’re looking to get off the tourist trail and want some quirkiness from your visit, here are 10 more things you can do with your time in Melbourne.

1. Kryal Castle

Australia’s only medieval castle, Kryal Castle is home to brave knights, dueling warriors, dragons, mysteries, mazes, and plenty of medieval adventures. The kids will absolutely love it, and once they’ve slayed the dragon and conquered the maze, they can even have a go at archery.

Visit: Open Saturday & Sunday from 10:00am to 4:00pm, as well as school and public holidays. Tickets start at $35.

Get There: Grab the train to Ballarat Station.

2. Cat Cafe

What could be better than enjoying a latte in a homely cafe surrounded by dozens of friendly, happy, rescue cats? Melbourne’s Cat Cafe (the first one in Australia) does just that. Operating primarily as a cat rescue and a cafe second, the kitties are the priority and are spoilt rotten. You’ll get spoilt too, with a steaming hot cup of coffee and a slice of homemade cake.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm. 1-hour sessions cost $12 and must be booked in advance.

Get There: Take the tram to Melbourne Central on Elizabeth Street. The cafe is nearby in Guildford Lane.

3. Crafternoon

The perfect place to keep the kids happy, Crafternoon is a cafe where you can eat and create all under one roof. Choose from creating with playdough, painting, badge making, or a heap of other educational and fun sessions to keep the children entertained while you enjoy high tea. It’s not just for little people either — adults can also try their hand at something crafty while there.

Visit: Open daily (except Thursdays) from 8:30am to 4:00pm

Get There: Located on Sydney Road in Brunswick

4. Guided Boat Tours at the Royal Botanic Gardens

Capture the historic beauty of the gardens from a watery vantage point. Jump on board a wooden punt and enjoy a serene cruise around the islands dotted throughout this picturesque ornamental lake. Your own personal guide will talk you through the Gardens’ history, flora, and fauna. Perfect for stress-free sightseeing!

Visit: Guided boat tours run from 10:15am-5:00pm (September to May) and 11:00am-3:30pm (June to August). Tickets start at $25 per person.

5. Make Your Own Gin

At Bass & Flinders Distillery , you can make your very own gin. First you’ll take a masterclass in gin distillation, and by the end of the tour will have created not 1 but 2 unique flavors of gin. You’ll get a large bottle of it to take with you afterward, and the distillery will keep your recipe on file so you can order more when you run out (or decide to gift your creation to friends).

Visit: Book 2-hour classes in advance for $140 per person

Get There: The distillery is located on Red Hill Road in Red Hill

6. Western Water Treatment Plant

If heavy machinery and large civic operations are your thing, a tour around the Western Water Treatment Plant will show how the plant works and let you experience the scale and environmental importance of the site. Take a guided tour around the treatment rooms and processes to learn how energy is captured from methane gas and how the nearby wetlands are looked after.

Visit: Tickets start at $12 for adults, and tours must be pre-booked

Get There: The plant is located in Werribee and easily accessible by car

7. Eerie Ghost Tours

If you like all things ghost related, Eerie Tours offers ghost tours around some unique sites, including a cemetery, a sprawling old asylum, and an unused gaol. There are talks and tales along the way, and if you’re lucky you might come face-to-supernatural-face with a ghost or 2. Not for the faint-hearted!

Visit: Prices start at $27.50 per adult (less for kids)

Get There: Tours are based in Ararat, Ballarat, and the Gold Rush Cemetery, and must be pre-booked

8. Join the Circus

You no longer have to run away to join the circus; now you can do it while you’re here in Melbourne! Circus Oz offers classes in all things circus, including trapeze, hula hoops, German Wheels, acrobatics, flying, and even tumbling. They offer classes for both children and adults, and you can also book tickets to see one of their shows. Circus Oz does not use animals in their performances.

Visit: Prices vary depending on the course

Get There: Based in Johnston Street, Collingwood. Take the 86 tram to Johnston St/Smith St.

9. Neighbours Tour

For fans of the long-running show, the Neighbours Tour is a once in a lifetime opportunity. You will be taken on a guided tour of the Ramsey Street set, as well as other key locations used in the show. There’s a very strong chance you’ll meet one of the stars on your tour, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos and learn exclusive story details too.

Visit: Open Monday to Friday. Prices start at $59 per adult.

10. The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant

The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant is an authentic Colonial tramcar that has been transformed into a 5-star dining experience. The beautiful wagons cruise through the city streets as you enjoy freshly prepared cuisine surrounded by Victorian history and opulence. The restaurant will arrive back at the departure point at the end of the evening, and bookings can be in short supply.

Visit: Open daily year-round. Prices start at $90 per person, including all food and drink.

Get There: Take the tram to stop 125 Normanby Road

Melbourne offers some of the best beaches in Australia  within just a few miles of the central metro area. If you’re looking to make the most of the coast, here are the top 5 best beaches in and around the city.

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is an ideal spot for swimmers, sunbathers, and surfers alike, set against a backdrop of over 80 brightly colored beach boxes. The suburb itself is one of the most sought after parts of the city, and it’s located just to the east of the CBD. You can reach Brighton Beach easily by car or bus, and the nearest station is Brighton Beach.

With plenty of gourmet food outlets and contemporary retailers, you can spend your days on the long stretches of soft sandy beaches surrounding Brighton and Port Phillip, and then have a cool drink in the shade in one of the most popular and upmarket parts of Melbourne.

St Kilda Beach

You won’t find many waves at St. Kilda Beach, but you’ll still find plenty to enjoy. A hotspot for both tourists and locals, St Kilda Beach is a picturesque stretch of soft white sand that is always popular with photographers and film crews. Kite surfers, paddle-boarders, cyclists, and runners love the long straight palm-covered stretches, and there is more than enough beach to go around, no matter how busy it gets.

This beach is also really close to the cafes and restaurants on Acland Street that are perfect for a break from the sun. You can even make the beach your final destination after a busy day racing around the attractions at Luna Park. The best way to reach St Kilda Beach is by hopping on the 3a, 16, or 96 tram from the CBD.

Williamstown Beach

Known locally as “Willy Beach,” this small family-friendly beach is a hit with locals and tourists as well. Being in a popular residential area just a stone’s throw from the city, you can while away the day admiring the sea in front of you, or take in the stunning views of Melbourne just behind you.

This beach is also home to the historic Gem Pier, which offers spectacular unobscured views of the city skyline and looks resplendent thrust out to sea. With plenty of local cafes, shops, and other attractions, Willy Beach is great for kids of all ages. The nearest station is Williamstown Beach.

Mordialloc Beach

If you want a trip to a beach with more than just sand and water to keep you entertained, “Mordi” beach could be just what you’re looking for. With its very own Windows on the Bay restaurant, a children’s playground, and dedicated BBQ and picnic areas, Mordi Beach is a big hit for families, groups, and social gatherings. There is also a bike path that runs all the way back to the suburb of Mentone if you fancy sightseeing on 2 wheels.

Situated in the southern suburb of Kingston, Mordi beach can get very busy during weekends and holidays, so head down there during the week if you want the beach to yourselves. Mordialloc Station is closest, but it’s still about a 1.5 kilometer walk away from the main beach areas.

Elwood Beach

Elwood Beach is a swimming beach offering excellent facilities and long stretches of soft clean sand. It is close to local cafes and restaurants and only about a 20 minute drive from the city. For these reasons, Elwood Beach is very popular among families with young children, giving it a safe, family vibe all year long.

This beach makes the perfect base from which to explore the area’s other beaches, since you can walk around the bay to Brighton Beach or even St Kilda. Elwood offers a rare no boating zone, which is great for swimmers. Sadly, there are no local train or tram stations nearby, but you can easily reach Elwood Beach by car or bus.

Melbourne is renowned for its exceptional bar scene, so it’s tough to create a top 10 list. However, we’re big fans of quirky hidden bars, so here are some you should check out when in the city.

1. Jungle Boy, 96 Chapel Street, Windsor

To find this hidden cocktail bar, you first need to locate Boston Sub, a tiny American sandwich shop in Chapel Street. Head inside and make for the cooler door. Go through, and you’ll step into the tropical surroundings of one of the funkiest cocktail lounges in Melbourne. Plant yourself at the bar and start on the spritzers before getting sucked into the tiki-themed cocktails, each more inventive than the last. Jungle Boy also serves food.

Visit: Open daily from 5:00pm until 1:00am. The nearest tram stop is Windsor.

2. Eau De Vie, 1 Malthouse Lane, Melbourne

Skillfully tucked away down Malthouse Lane, you’ll need to keep yours eyes out for an unsigned service entrance and head inside. You’ll know you’re in the right place if you’re not chased out by some angry chefs, but instead welcomed by waistcoated greeters fresh out of 1920s Chicago.

Eau De Vie is a Prohibition-themed bar channeling all very best parts of vintage Americana. You can sit at the bar or share a private booth and get started on the best cocktails in the country. Behind a bookcase is another secret area, the Whiskey Room, that’s a whole new level of whisky drinking awesome.

Visit: Open Monday-Thursday 5:00pm to 1:00am, Friday & Saturday 4:00pm to 1:00am, and Sunday 4:00pm to 11:00pm. No Tommy guns please!

3. Hihou, 1 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

On Flinders Lane near the corner of Spring Street lies this amazing Japanese bar and restaurant. Keep your eyes peeled though, as the entrance is really easy to miss. Hihou offers a superb variety of worldwide fare all given a unique Japanese twist. There is also a wonderful cocktail menu on offer too.

If you choose to dine upstairs, you’ll be asked to remove your shoes as you’ll be sitting at traditional Japanese low tables. If you’re dining downstairs, usual rules apply.

Visit: Open Monday-Wednesday 5:00pm to midnight, Thursday-Saturday 5:00pm to 1:00am. Nearest station is Flinders Street.

4. Sister Bella, 22 Drewery Place, Melbourne

The ultimate in stripped-down hidden bar chic, this place is not easily spotted when passing by. Should you make the effort, though, you will be rewarded with a visit to one of the quirkiest bars in the city. Word of mouth advertising is all they’ve used here, so everyone else you see will have explored their way inside too.

The drinks menu is refreshingly basic, which fits the décor perfectly. A tattooed and cool staff will make you feel right at home as you take a seat on the recycled furniture to take in the surroundings.

Visit: Bar open Monday-Saturday 4:00pm to 1:00am, Sunday 4:00pm to 11:00pm

5. Murmur, 17 Warburton Lane, Melbourne

Melbourne’s only dedicated piano bar, Murmur is a hot spot with a drinks menu thicker than an old phone book. Serving fine drinks and cocktails from around the world as well as amazing food, this relaxing bar offers an oasis from the bustling city outside. A great place to impress that special someone in your life (or simply indulge your inner connoisseur), Murmur will forever raise your food and drink standards. It’s 1920s chic for the 21st century.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 4:30pm to 11:00pm, Saturday & Sunday 4:30pm to 1:00am

6. Loch & Key, 34 Franklin Street, Melbourne

The first thing you need to do here is find the Captain Melville Bar in Franklin Street. Once inside, look for a bookcase that gives way to a rickety staircase. This leads you to Loch & Key , a semi-secret but fabulous bar and lounge. You can remain fed and watered here until the sun comes up, all accompanied by 70s funk and electronica.

The food is experimental and delicious, but it’s the drinks you’ll come here for. Loch & Key’s bar staff will serve you anything from a cold beer to an outlandish cocktail — including everything in between.

Visit: Open Sunday-Thursday 5:00pm to 5:00am, Friday & Saturday 5:00pm to 7:00am

7. Marrakech, 25 Bank Place, Melbourne

Hidden underneath Bank Place, Marrakech is a Moroccan-themed bar that offers the latest R&B and soul music in sumptuous surroundings. Grab a comfortable booth and soak up the softly-lit décor while sipping fine cocktails and enjoying delectable cuisine.

They also have Shisha pipes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the Moroccan vibe. There are always special offers available, and you can find out about these on the Marrakech website before you go.

Visit: Open Monday-Thursday 11:00am till late, Friday 3:00pm to 3:00am, Saturday 6:00pm to 3:00am, Sunday 6:00pm till late

8. Bartronica, Basement, 335 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Bartronica is Melbourne’s first vintage arcade bar. Indulge your 80s inner child with this hidden bar that’s packed with retro arcade games. Once you’ve found the place, grab a beer or one of the many weird and wonderful cocktails and get on a classic machine like Mortal Kombat, Sonic, or Mario Kart. When you need to get some air, you can head out into the beer garden, which has been set up to feel like it’s in downtown New York .

Visit: Open Wednesday-Saturday 4:00pm to 1:00am

9. The Alchemist, 361 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

This unusual drinking spot is decked out like an alchemist’s lab: everything’s covered in gold and festooned with old flasks and lab equipment. The Alchemist has an extensive wine list and probably one of the best and most experimental cocktail menus in Australia. Mixologists here can make anything you can think of — they’re as good at turning booze into cocktails as an alchemist is at turning lead into gold. Tapas-style food fills the gaps while live jazz on Tuesdays and Thursdays soothes the ears.

Visit: Open Sunday & Wednesday 3:00pm to 11:00pm, Thursday-Saturday 3:00pm to 1:00am

10. Pizza Pizza Pizza, 16 Meyers Place, Melbourne

This is a popular and very busy pizza place that does delicious New York-style pizzas with a variety of toppings. What’s that got to do with this list? Well, if you ask a member of staff to see the “special menu,” you’ll be taken through a secret door to a hidden retro-inspired bar out back! Here you can still enjoy delicious pizza, but you can also add a few cocktails to your order to help wash it down a bit better.

Visit: Pizza Pizza Pizza is open Tuesday-Thursday 12:00pm to 11:00pm, Friday 12:00pm to 3:00am, Saturday 6:00pm to 3:00am

Breakfast is the best meal of the day in Melbourne, and with so many great eateries to choose from you’ll never go hungry! Here are our top picks.

1. The Kettle Black, 50 Albert Road, South Melbourne

One of the finest cafes in the city, The Kettle Black offers amazing dishes at great prices that will set you up for the day ahead.

Need to blow the cobwebs away from the night before? They also have wine, beer, and a range of breakfast cocktails to go with their delicious menu. This place also serves a mean cup of coffee.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends and public holidays 8:00am to 4:00pm

2. Top Paddock, 658 Church Street, Richmond

Set in a beautiful location, this trendy cafe serves up some gorgeous dishes at reasonable prices. The menu is healthy and varied, and it’s accompanied by a fine range of beers and wines (as well as all-day cocktails).

Top Paddock is like a traditional cafe and kitchen, only much better. It’s the perfect spot for a quick breakfast or a long coffee break, whether you’re meeting friends or need a quiet moment to yourself.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm. The kitchen closes at 3:00pm though, so don’t dawdle!

3. Rudimentary, 16-18 Leeds Street, Footscray

Shipping container bars are getting popular all over the world, and now you can visit one in up-and-coming Footscray. Rudimentary offers breakfasts ranging from light bites to a pork belly extravaganza, none of which will seriously dent your wallet.

Add to this fantastic coffees and other drinks, and you can easily lose a whole day in this amazing venue. Rudimentary is also a community space that aims to contribute to the evolution of a vibrant part of Melbourne, as well as break the current trend of high rise developments.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:30am to 3:30pm, weekends 8:00am to 3:30pm

4. Bowery to Williamsburg, 16 Oliver Lane, Melbourne

This American diner is styled after a New York subway station, complete with signage and bustle! The amazing menu fuses hearty American classics with unique Melbourne touches for some unbeatable dishes. From BBQ bacon cheeseburgers to pastrami sandwiches and key lime pie, you can find it all at Bowery to Williamsburg .

They also do the best American breakfast in town with pretzels, bagels, waffles, and eggs all fresh every morning. You can join the other diners in this deli-style eatery, or have your food wrapped to go.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:30am to 3:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 3:30pm. Closed on public holidays.

5. Auction Rooms, 103-107 Errol Street, North Melbourne

This 150-year-old auction house certainly looks its age from the outside. Venture in, however, and you’ll be greeted with industrial steel and concrete, as well as the buzz of contented diners.

The Auction Rooms serves food from the Middle East, Mexico, and America and does a great selection of all-day breakfast, eggs, and sides. There are also cocktails, beers, and wine, as well as Small Batch coffee (made by the original owner who started the Small Batch company).

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 5:00pm, weekends 7:30am to 5:00pm

6. The Grain Store, 517 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Offering German, French, and Mediterranean-infused cuisine, The Grain Store cooks healthy meals in a bright space with industrial looks and a homely vibe. The daily breakfast menu includes plenty of healthy fare as well as more hearty fodder.

Their weekend brunch menu is absolutely stunning and available until 3:00pm. You can choose from bacon, eggs, salmon, or even pork belly, among other mouthwateringly lazy breakfast suggestions.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm

7. The Farm Cafe, 18 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford

What started out as a trestle table and coffee machine has evolved into an excellent rustic eatery, offering hearty country foods as well as healthy lighter options. Their breakfasts are made with love and flavor, and the menu includes a variety of fresh local fare: homemade sausage rolls, granola, and a gut-busting farmers breakfast. Located on an actual farm, The Farm Cafe is the perfect spot for weekend bunches with the kids.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 9:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 9:00am to 5:00pm

8. Cafe Ora, 156 Parkington Street, Kew

Hidden away in a tired parade of shops is this gem of an owner-operated cafe. Serving fine coffees to suit all tastes, they also offer fresh, healthy food made with herbs and spices grown out back. Breakfasts come in all shapes and sizes, alongside first-class coffee and ice cream too.

Visit: Open Tuesday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm

9. Lights in the Attic, 38 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East

This suburban cafe is well worth hunting down, as it offers an Asian infusion on traditional breakfast choices. Try the salmon scrambled eggs with Benito flakes or the Nourish bowl, a superfood fusion dish that will provide all the energy you’ll need for the day. Lights In The Attic also serves fresh fruit, eggs, and steaming hot coffee.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:30am to 3:30pm, Saturday 8:00am to 3:00pm, Sunday 8:30am to 3:00pm

10. Mr Hendricks, 469 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn

This family-run cafe offers French-inspired foods created by 2 chef brothers with a wealth of culinary experience. The menu is loaded with amazing dishes that wouldn’t be out of place in a top-end international restaurant.

With all-day breakfasts, a breakfast cassoulet, crispy eggs, and even vanilla brioche toast, these boys are really raising the breakfast game in Balwyn! Oh, and in case you were wondering, Mr. Hendricks is the name of the family dog.

Visit: Open Tuesday-Friday 7:30am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm

If you thought only cities like London and Seattle had cool coffee covered, think again. Melbourne has one the most incredible coffee cultures in the world. Every neighborhood brings something new to the mix, making it irresistible to stop and watch the world go by while sipping on the black stuff in the mild Melbourne climate.

Want to know where to find the very best coffee in the city? Check out these top 5 places for coffee lovers.

1. Market Lane

Market Lane is a specialty coffee roastery, cafe, and retailer born and based in Melbourne. With 5 shops throughout the city, they roast their own beans at their Parham Market roastery and are dedicated to sourcing some of the finest coffee from around the world.

Owner Fleur Studd and chief roaster Jason Scheltus were both big names in the Melbourne coffee scene in their own right. Together, they created a coffee company that is focused on not just providing fantastic tasting coffee, but also on educating every customer about the journey of the humble bean.

2. Proud Mary

Proud Mary is a specialty coffee roaster, cafe, coffee educator, and retailer that is dedicated to producing exceptional coffee, and who takes their roasting very seriously. So much so that you can visit their “Aunty Peg’s” roastery to learn all about the beans, brew your own gear at the shop, or enjoy a one-to-one brew from your own personal barista.

Nolan Hirte, the founder of Proud Mary, is now recognized as a pioneer of the specialty coffee industry in Australia. Having come face to face with the harsh reality of coffee farming during a trip to Bali , he decided to find a way to bridge the gap between farmer and consumer, and shortly afterward Proud Mary was born. Based in Collingwood, the cafe has a vibe that is perfect for locals who enjoy living in one of the quirkiest suburbs of the city.

3. Code Black

The guys and gals at Code Black describe their establishment as “a laboratory, a workshop, and a hub for connoisseurs of the dark art and science of coffee.” We can assume from this statement that they take their coffee very seriously indeed. Located in the trendy suburb of Brunswick, Code Black has created a coffee shop that perfectly matches the interests and inspirations of the local alternative music scene.

If the coffee they brew isn’t quite strong enough for your dark soul, they’ve also launched their very own brand of hot chocolate. Cocoa Jackson consists of a beautiful Venezuelan to give you a dark chocolate kick. Quirky, cool, and unashamedly dark…Code Black is probably just named after the way they take their coffee.

4. Industry Beans

When brothers Steve and Trevor Simmons set up in a tiny garage and began roasting coffee for themselves, they always had their eyes on bigger things. Now situated in a former warehouse in the super cool suburb of Fitzroy, the boys at Industry Beans are now pouring house blends for all to enjoy.

With a strong emphasis on sourcing the very best specialty-grade green coffee from across the globe, the team at Industry Beans creatively applies scientific methodology to the coffee roasting process. They can reveal the complex and distinctive qualities of each single origin coffee, which in the end, makes for a really great cup!

5. Patricia Coffee Brewers

In-house, artisanal coffee flows aplenty at this trendy standing-room-only spot. With their own blends ground on-site, Patricia Coffee Brewers offers a simple choice of black, white, or filter coffees for all to enjoy.

A joint venture between Bowen Holden and Pip Heath, Patricia Coffee Brewers is a quality-driven coffee bar in the heart of Melbourne. Their exceptional service meets carefully crafted coffees, and everyone who steps inside their tiny storefront knows they’re in for a coffee-shaped treat.

Melbourne offers some of the greatest shopping experiences in Australia. From designer boutiques to vintages markets, you can find it all within the city center itself. You may have heard of Chadstone, the largest shopping center in Australia but here are ten others.

1. Emporium Melbourne

The Emporium is the largest Australian luxury shopping area, offering a wealth of designer clothing stores and boutiques as well as over 30 food outlets. Situated on the corner of Lonsdale and Swanston streets, the complex also features large Myer and David Jones department stores.

With 225 stores providing a fusion of fashion, culture, food, and art all located in the central CBD, the Emporium is frequented by locals, commuters, and visitors alike.

Visit: Open from 10:00am until 7:00pm (9:00pm on Thursday and Fridays), and easily accessed by public transport

2. Queen Victoria Village (QV)

Known locally as the “QV,” the Queen Victoria Village is home to both Australian and international designer stores, a wide variety of restaurants, and some of Melbourne’s finest retailers. Occupying an entire city block, the QV is famous for its unique open-air design, with 120 stores running down each of its laneways.

There is also an international food court located in the basement of the building. The retail venue plays host to a wide variety of lifestyle events and shows throughout the year.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to as late as 9:00pm on some days.

Get There: Offers over 1,500 car parking spaces, but can also be reached by any tram or bus line.

3. Melbourne Central

The Melbourne Central shopping center is a large modern complex featuring shops, offices, and access to the city loop underground railway below. Refurbished in 2005, the complex now offers a wide range of shops and food stalls that are well-suited to their central location within the CBD.

Almost as well-known as some of the shops are the architectural delights on display. Coop’s Shot Tower, The Marionette Watch, The Glass Cone, and The Vertical Cone have all been built over the years to add interest to this city center retail and commercial complex.

4. Bourke Street Mall

Bourke Street is one of the main thoroughfares in Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD). It is well-regarded as a hub of entertainment and shopping in the city, and is a popular tourist destination. In recent years the area has become pedestrianized and is only accessible on foot or by tram, allowing visitors to explore the area at their leisure.

If you are looking to enjoy the full city center experience, Bourke Street has everything you need: great shops, fine food, and plenty of the authentic Melbourne atmosphere.

Get There: Nearest stations are Flagstaff Station or Southern Cross Station. Trams 86, 95, and 96 all stop in Bourke Street itself.

5. DFO South Wharf

Centrally located in Melbourne CBD and next to the popular upmarket Docklands suburb, DFO South Wharf is a factory outlet complex offering well-known branded goods for majorly discounted prices. Similar to the outlet stores normally found on the outskirts of major towns and cities, the DFO South Wharf offers all the fun of bargain hunting right in the city center. It also hosts a variety of cafes, bistros, and restaurants so you can enjoy a whole day’s shopping under one roof.

Visit: Stores open from 10:00am until 6:00pm every day, except Friday when they offer late night shopping until 9:00pm.

Get There: Nearest train station is Southern Cross, which is about a 15-minute walk away. Or, hop on any trams traveling along Swanston Street and St Kilda Road that stop at Federation Square, or the corner of Flinders and Swanston streets.

6. Prahran Market

Known as “the food lovers market,” Prahran Market offers a wide range of high quality fruit and vegetables, certified organic produce, sustainable seafood, free-range meat and poultry, and more. Having been on the same Commercial Road site for over 125 years, the market offers a variety of stalls and shops selling every type of food you could imagine. The market also has a dedicated Market Square where there are community performances, cafes, and a children’s playground.

Visit: Located in the suburb of South Yarra. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 7:00am until 5:00pm, and 10:00am until 3:00pm on Sundays. Closed Mondays and Wednesdays.

7. Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is a major landmark in Melbourne and the largest open air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Standing at around 7 hectares, the marketplace is both historically and architecturally important (and is actually listed on the Victorian Heritage Register). Visitors can expect to find a wide variety of fresh, high-quality produce and specialty shopping including clothing, art, and interior goods.

Visit: Open from 6:00am most mornings, closing times vary depending on the day. Night market during the summer months on Wednesdays from 5:00pm until 10:00pm. Closed Mondays.

Get There: Located between Queen Street, Victoria Street, and Peel Street, the market can be reached by train using either Melbourne Central or Flagstaff Stations. Alternatively, take tram 19, 57, or 59 to stop 7, Elizabeth St (or tram 58 to stop 9, Peel St).

8. The Rose Street Market

Rose Street Market is an artists’ market where everything on sale is handmade. Widely known as a platform for emerging artists, it is a great place to find one-off pieces of art, unusual fashion, unique jewelry, and work from local photographers.

Occupying an abandoned yard in Fitzroy, Rose Street Market is the creative hub of the CBD and the city’s most important home for independent art and design.

Visit: Market held every Saturday from 11:00am until 5:00pm.

Get There: Best reached by tram using the 96 from Bourke St (get off at stop 16) or 11 from Collins St. (get off at stop 17).

9. Fitzroy Market

The Fitzroy Market  is a community project that has been running since 2010. Selling a variety of secondhand clothing and goods, handmade items, and homemade food, the market is put on by the community and benefits partner organizations in education. There is always a welcoming atmosphere, lots of live music and entertainment, and a real neighborly spirit, making the market a lovely place to be on a sunny Saturday in Melbourne.

Visit: Market held on the 3rd Saturday of every month from 10:00am until 3:00pm at the Fitzroy Primary School.

Get There: Take trams 86 (travel to Smith St), 96 (travel down Nicholson St), and 112 (travel down Brunswick St). Or, buses 200, 201, 203, 205, and 207 all stop at nearby Johnston Street.

10. Camberwell Market

Camberwell Sunday Market is Melbourne’s premier vintage market, and it offers a wide range of secondhand goods and crafts. It sells anything retro and is the perfect place to find antiques, collectables, vintage clothing, handmade crafts, vinyl, musical instruments, knick knacks, and much more.

Visit: Market held every Sunday morning (except the Sunday before Christmas Day) from 7:30am until 12:30pm.

Get There: Take the train to Camberwell Railway Station, or bus routes 612 or 285 to Camberwell Junction.

Visiting foreign lands can be an expensive business, especially if you’re planning to spend any time in a major city. While Melbourne may not be the most expensive destination in the world, it certainly isn’t the cheapest either. Try these top hacks to help your vacation budget stretch a little further.

1. Explore Your New Surroundings

Getting your bearings needn’t be boring. Melbourne is a wonderful city to just roam around and explore for free. Take in the city center and browse the streets as you get a feel for that authentic Melbourne atmosphere. When you run out of steam, there are plenty of parks and green spaces to relax in.

2. Go to the Museums

While away the hours taking in the free galleries and museums dotted thought the city. The National Gallery Of Victoria has a vast collection of art from all around the world, and The Australian Centre for The Moving Image offers incredible interactive exhibits.

3. Take a Trip to the Beach

Melbourne may be a vibrant and bustling city, but you’re never more than a few miles away from the nearest beach. Australia has some of the finest beaches in the world, and the coast surrounding Melbourne is certainly no exception. Enjoy free sunbathing, surfing, or swimming at any of the beaches surrounding the city.

4. Soak up the Arts Scene

Melbourne is a very creative city full of musicians, magicians, buskers, breakdancers, and much more. You can catch any number of free outdoor performances all across the CBD and into the suburbs. Bourke Street, Southbank, and Federation Square are virtually guaranteed to have something going on nearly every day of the week.

5. Visit the Markets

Melbourne is full of amazing markets, and you’ll be able to find one that offers everything you need on pretty much any day of the week. From the vast and historical Queen Victoria Market to the foodies’ favorites at Prahran Market and everything in between, you will never be short of a bargain or 2.

6. Shop the Outlets

DFO South Wharf is a shopping complex dedicated to designer bargains. With 3 levels of shops and hundreds of outlets to choose from (as well as cafes and eateries), a visit to the DFO is a great day out.

7. Eat Away From the Riverside

Those waterside views will definitely add extra bucks to your brunch. If you want to enjoy fine food for less money, eat away from the docklands, Bourke Street, and main streets when you can.

8. Shop Around for Somewhere to Stay

Like many big cities, staying in the main tourist districts can be expensive. In Melbourne, even the hostels can be on the pricey side, so check out backpacker groups on social media for the best deals, or see if you can find an apartment share for your time in the city.

9. Go to a Gig

The north side of the city is famous for its live music venues and bohemian atmosphere. Dance the night away with free or cheap tickets to any of the area’s many music bars including the Tote , the Evelyn , Bar Open , or the Night Cat .

10. Eat the Oysters

If you want to live the high life without paying a high price, try eating oysters with a glass of Prosecco while overlooking the Yarra at Arbory Bar and Eatery , Melbourne’s longest and most affordable bar.

11. Drink Coffee

Melbourne has an uber cool cafe culture, and you can quickly become a complete coffee expert by enjoying free coffee tasting sessions at many of the first-class coffee shops and roasters throughout the city.

12. See the City From the Water

If you want to get a different perspective of the city, hop on a ferry from Southgate to Williamstown and explore the suburb’s historic waterfront, as well as the famous Castlemaine warship for just $18.

13. Make Use of the Visitor Shuttle

The visitor shuttle stops at 13 points around the city and offers an audio commentary for your journey. Learn about the history of Melbourne at your leisure, and jump on and off as you please.

14. Workout for Free

Princes Park is home to the Carlton football club and is a stunning place to go for a run, bike ride, or even a workout in the outdoor gyms during your stay in Melbourne.

15. Work the Transport System

Travel is not hugely expensive in Melbourne, but you can save money by taking advantage of the free trams, free off-peak travel, and the easy walking distance between many of the tourist areas.

Want to impress your hosts when you finally touch down in Melbourne? Wow them with your superior knowledge using these fun facts.

1. Traffic Management

Melbourne is home to the first ever traffic lights installed in Australia. They were first tested in mid-1928 at the intersection of Swanston and Flinders streets to address the growing problems of simultaneous vehicle control and increased pedestrian traffic.

2. Chocolate History

Chocolate lovers have a lot to thank Melbourne for. Chocolate makers MacRobertson’s Steam Confectionery Works, located in the suburb of Fitzroy, were the original inventors of the Cherry Ripe in 1924, the Crunchie in 1929, and the Freddo Frog in 1930. They continued to produce these for many years until the company was sold to Cadbury in 1967.

3. Name Change

Melbourne was originally named Batmania after one of the city’s founding fathers, John Batman. Upon discovering the first settlements of central Melbourne, he declared the location as being a “nice place for a village.” The name never stuck, however, and the land would later be christened Melbourne, after Lord Melbourne, then the Prime Minister of Britain.

4. Heating Up

Melbourne can get pretty hot. As you would expect anywhere on the Australian continent, the sun is almost always shining on this city. Sometimes, though, it gets a little too hot to handle: the maximum temperature ever recorded in Melbourne was 115.5 degrees Fahrenheit (46.4 degrees Celsius) in 2009!

5. Big Window

The world’s largest stained-glass ceiling is located in Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria. It was designed by Australian artist Leonard French, and his geometric masterpiece is known as the Persian Rug of Light. It measures a whopping 60.9 x 15.24 meters and features 224 tiles in a kaleidoscope of colors.

6. Feeling Foxy

According to the RSPCA, Melbourne is officially the fox capital of the world. There are apparently anywhere between 6 and 23 foxes per square kilometer in the urban area of the city. Despite these numbers, it’s still quite rare to see one, and the urban fox is very much revered.

7. Bath Time

Melbourne used to be very well known for its public bathing. Residents would happily jump in the Yarra, the sea, and the City Baths to keep cool on hot sunny days. Such was its popularity that there are still more than 1,800 bathing boxes scattered around the city’s beaches.

8. Fancy a Beer

The now world-famous Australian beer Fosters was first brewed in Melbourne in 1888. Even thought it was originally brewed by American brothers William and Ralph Foster right here in the city, it went on to become synonymous with the “Aussie” love for a nice cold tinnie.

9. One for Sport Lovers

As a city, Melbourne is utterly obsessed with sports and is the only city in the world to have 5 international standard sporting facilities on the fringe of its central business district: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Docklands Stadium, Rod Laver Arena, Hisense Arena, and Olympic Park in Melbourne Park.

10. No Down Time

Keeping with the sports theme, one of Australia’s most famous games, Australian Rules Football was invented in Melbourne in 1858 by Tom Wills and his friends as a way to keep cricketers fit during the off-season.

You can’t come all the way to Melbourne and not explore at least a little bit more of Victoria. Even if you don’t stay long, try and take at least one of these awesome day trips away from the city during your visit.

1. Great Ocean Road, Victoria

As one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, a trip along the Great Ocean Road is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Stretching from the towns of Torquay to Nelson, the 249-mile roadway winds alongside the wild and windswept Southern Ocean coast of Victoria.

The road will take you through Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, the Great Otway National Park, and the Shipwreck Coast as you explore local towns and villages, stopping at iconic locations along the way.

The Great Ocean Road is approximately 2 hours south from Melbourne CBD, and you can spend days traveling its entire length at your leisure.

2. Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is packed with award-winning vineyards, tasting rooms, and wineries. Many visitors to the region come to learn about the fermentation process and join in with an organized wine tour. There are many to choose from throughout the region, from a simple half-day tour to a full week away in a winery.

Many of the vineyards have been transformed into exclusive estates, offering spas, restaurants, and even rooms for visitors to stay with them overnight. Prices will vary depending on the tour and location you choose, but half-day private tours start at around $50 per person, while overnight stays will obviously be much more. Find out about tours in the region at Yarra Valley Wine .

3. Mornington Peninsula

Just an hour outside Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula offers miles of stunning coastlines and pretty seaside towns, as well as local wineries and impressive restaurants.

Go cycling, horseback riding, golfing, surfing, or visit a winery or a national park…or just relax on the beach. The Mornington Peninsula has something for everyone. You can drive there from Melbourne using the M1 and the Western Port Highway. If you want to take the train, you can connect from Frankston through Hastings to Stony Point on Westernport Bay. Or if you would rather go by bus, they travel from Melbourne to all areas, and local bus routes operate around each Mornington Peninsula village.

4. Phillip Island

Phillip Island is a very popular day trip destination from Melbourne. You can watch the Penguin Parade from Summerland beach, or spot the fur seals gathering off the coast from The Nobbies Centre . If you’d rather, you could simply stop and spend some time with the koalas at the Conservation Centre . The island is also well known for motorcycle and car racing events held at the Phillip Island Circuit if man-made entertainment is more your thing.

Around a 90-minute drive away from Melbourne, you can reach the island by car using the M1, the M420, and the A420. Private coach trips from the city are also available, or you may be able to access the island using the V-Line train service . Tickets for the attractions vary in price depending on what you wish to see. General viewing tickets for the Penguin Parade are $25 per adult, whereas a guided ranger tour of the parks could be as much as $90 per adult. Find prices, times, and park information at the Phillip Island website .

5. Dandenong Ranges

The Dandenong Ranges make for a great day out away from hustle and bustle of the city. Soaring forests, fern glades, and some of the world’s tallest flowering trees can all be found here. There are also pretty villages and rustic farms, and you can jump aboard the historic Puffing Billy Steam Train to see them all. A trip on the steam train will cost from $59 per adult and $29.50 per child.

The Dandenong Ranges are about an hour away from Melbourne by car using the M1 freeway, Ferntree Gully Road, and the Burwood Highway. If you’d rather use public transport, you can also get there using the  V-Line train service  from Melbourne. There are many options for day tours and accommodations for longer stays.

Melbourne has relatively low crime figures for a city of its size, meaning that you should be able to relax and enjoy your time there. That said, all travel comes with risks, and you should always be aware of your surroundings and take the appropriate precautions.

Emergency Contacts in Melbourne

• If you are the victim of a crime, have been in an accident, or need urgent assistance in relation to a fire, call 000 and ask to speak to the police, ambulance, or fire department.
• If you need to contact the police in relation to a non-urgent matter, call 131 444.
• If you need advice or assistance about a Maritime and Aviation Rescue , call 9674 3000.
• If you need travel information, updates about disrupted or canceled services can be found at Public Transport Victoria .

Keep Safe in the City

• In a crowded area, stay aware of what is going on around you and keep together in groups. If there is a chance you could become separated, arrange a meeting point prior to travel.
• Pickpockets and thieves operate all over the world. To ensure that you are not a target, keep your mobile phones, wallets , and purses safely tucked away, and never leave them in plain sight.
• If you are eating out, keep your handbags or briefcases out of sight under your chair in bars and restaurants, or use a table clip if the venue provides one.
• Never accept drinks from strangers and always keep yours with you in crowded bars.

Visiting Public Places

• Never leave your bags unattended.
• Always carry your wallet or purse close to you.
• Carry backpacks forward-facing in crowded areas.
• Keep mobile phones and other devices out of sight when not in use, and never leave them in your back pocket or coat pocket.
• Before you travel, make a note of your electronic serial numbers (ESNs).
• If your valuables are lost or stolen, dial 131 444 for the nearest police station. You will need to make a full report as soon as possible.
• Do not carry large amounts of cash on you, and if you are using an ATM, be sure nobody is looking over your shoulder as you enter your PIN.

At Your Hotel

• Always keep your passports and other valuables in a locked room safe if available.
• Keep a note of your hotel’s phone number and address with you at all times. If you get lost, you can use this to find your way back.

The National Security Hotline is the single point of contact for the public to report possible signs of terrorism. It also provides information to callers on a wide range of national security matters. Visit http://www.nationalsecurity.gov.au or call the National Security Hotline at 1-800-123-400.

Weather Conditions

Melbourne has a hot climate and strong UV rays all year round, which may be warmer than some visitors are used to. To ensure you’re not at risk from the sun, always take the following precautions:

• Slip-on sun-protective clothing.
• Slop on SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen at least 20 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours outdoors.
• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, neck, and ears.
• Seek shade.
• Slide on sunglasses.

At the Beach

Only swim on lifeguard-patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags. Remember to always apply proper protection against the sun, even on cloudy days.

Bites and Stings

If you are concerned about a bite or sting, visit the Symptom Checker at healthdirect.gov.au . If you or anyone in your party is suffering from chest pain, loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, turning blue, or is badly bleeding, call 000 immediately.

Forest Fires

Bush fires are a real concern in Victoria. Before you travel, make sure you know how to safely deal with fire in a bush environment and what to do if a fire begins to spread. You can find all the information you need on the Forest Fire Management Victoria website.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is melbourne best known for.

Melbourne is regularly voted as one of the most livable cities in the world. It is also known for its street art and coffee culture.

How do you travel around Melbourne?

Melbourne has many transport options such as trains, buses and taxis but the trams are very popular. Trams are a unique way to explore the city and have a good network in the city center and nearby suburbs.

Where should I go for a day trip in Melbourne?

There are plenty of options for day trips from Melbourne including:

• Great Ocean Road
• Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade
• The Mornington Peninsula
• Grampians National Park
• Wilson’s Promontory National Park

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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How Much Money Should I Bring To Melbourne?

The average daily price for visitors in Melbourne is AU$219 (about $164), so plan on spending around that amount throughout your stay there.

A typical day's budget for a tourist includes AU$37 ($28) for lunch and AU$24 ($18) for transportation. Moreover, the average cost of a night at a luxury hotel in Melbourne is AU$296 ($221).

This results in an average cost of AU$3,066 ($2,289) for a week for two people to visit Melbourne. We have prepared this information on typical travel expenses based on information supplied by our customers to help you plan a suitable budget for your trip.

Melbourne, Australia, is a popular tourist destination, and a weekly stay there costs an average of AU$1,533. Consequently, a vacation to Melbourne for a week with your better half will cost you about AU$3,066. The total cost of a two-week trip to Melbourne, Australia, is AU$6,133.

Travelling with three or four members of your family might help you save money since you can get cheaper tickets for the kids and book a room with more space. If you're able to extend your trip duration, you may save money each day.

Sharing a hotel room in Melbourne may cut your monthly hotel costs in half, from what they would be for a single person to what they would be for two people.

Below, we've broken out the average, minimum, and maximum costs associated with taking such a trip. If you know the airport you'll be leaving from, you may utilise that information to locate airline fares to destinations that are more relevant to you.

The Cheapest Times To Visit Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

• Booking a ticket to MEL and a hotel in Melbourne at these times will often save you the most money.
• January 29th to March 25th
• April 16th to May 6th (except the week of April 23rd)
• August 6th to December 2nd (except the week of October 8th)

In general, the cheapest time to visit Melbourne is the second half of August or the beginning of September.

Travelling Cheap To Melbourne

How much time and money would you need to save if you decided you wanted to visit Melbourne? A trip to Melbourne may be had for less than a quarter of that if you're ready to fly standby and put up with a few minor hassles. We found that the lowest price per night for a vacation rental was $42 and that roughly 1% of units were available for less than $100 per month.

It is recommended to book these inexpensive hotels as far in advance as possible, although their locations may not be ideal. Generally speaking, a night in a 1-star hotel will cost you between $33 and $36.

Flight Costs To Melbourne

Flights throughout the globe cost an average of $1,003 from late August to early September, falling to an average of $1,872 in late December. The average airfare today is $1,302. Millions of flights were used to get these costs. In our database, we have information on 274 departure airports and 157 airlines serving Melbourne.

There is more pricing variation in the region than in other regions. A flight from Provincetown Municipal (PVC) in Provincetown, Massachusetts (USA) to Melbourne, Australia (MEL) would set you back an average of $9,378 compared to a flight from Hobart (HBA) in Hobart, Australia (AUS) for an average of merely $95.

Tuesday is often the most cost-effective day for both arrival and departure flights. How much plane tickets to your airport cost. By following our free flight advice and booking in advance, you can easily save over 87% on your next trip to Melbourne. The price difference between the lowest and most costly week is roughly $868.

FAQs About Melbourne

How much money should i bring to australia.

An ideal combination would be to put 60% of your money in the travel card, 30% in an Australian Bank account and the rest in cash. For example, if you plan to bring $5000, you can bring $3000 in a travel card, transfer $1500 to the Australian bank account and keep $500 as cash.

Do You Need 5000 To Enter Australia?

When you enter Australia, you'll need to show that you have enough money to support yourself during your first few months. Usually, $5,000 (about $2,400) is considered enough. To prove this when you arrive, make sure you travel with a certified copy of your bank statement, not one printed from your online account.

How Much Money Do I Need For A Week In Melbourne?

A vacation to Melbourne for one week usually costs around AU$1,533 for one person. So, a trip to Melbourne for two people costs around AU$3,066 for one week. A trip for two weeks for two people costs AU$6,133 in Melbourne.

How Much Is A Bank Balance Required For An Australian Visa?

Financial requirements for a Visitor Visa are important requirements that also become a benchmark in determining whether you are eligible or not in applying for a visa visitor.

In submitting visitor visas to any country, these financial requirements must be included, although, in each visa application to several countries, different conditions are required.

These financial requirements for Visitor Visa Australia generally include bank statements for the past three months with a closing balance of at least $5,000 per applicant, payslips, audited accounts, taxation records, or credit card limits.

How Much Is The Show Money For An Australian Visa?

Australian student visa requirements

Financial requirements: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, travel and living costs. From February 2018, the amount you need to prove you have for living costs (separate from tuition and travel) is set at AU$20,290 (~US$13,750) for a year.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily expenses are less sensitive to changes in vacation plans. The average cost of a lunch for two at a decent Melbourne restaurant is around $17, but the cost of a supper for two at a top restaurant, including drinks, may easily reach $260.

While independent visits to the lights are free, guided tours may cost up to $524 per day. Since rates vary so widely, we can only provide recommendations based on our experience and the averages we've observed for trips of this kind taken in other countries.

Food Budget in Melbourne

Average Daily Costs

• Meals may range from AU$37 to AU$60, but on average, a day's worth of eating in Melbourne would set you back approximately AU$37. Based on the average expenditure of previous travellers, a supper in Melbourne will set you back roughly AU$15 per person. Feeding yourself a hearty breakfast will often save you money throughout the day. A meal in a stay restaurant in Melbourne will often cost more than the same meal at a fast-food restaurant or from a street vendor.

Budget For Transportation In Melbourne

• Taxi fares in Melbourne are much higher than those of the public transportation system. Average daily public transportation costs for tourists in Melbourne have been about AU$24.

Melbourne Entertainment Budget

• Enjoying everything that Melbourne has to offer will set you back roughly AU$33 per day (that's about US$21) for a single travelling. Included are also the prices of day excursions, tours, and museum visits.

Handouts And Tips Budget In Melbourne

• Generally speaking, a day of freebies and tips in Melbourne will set you back about AU$50. In Melbourne, a standard tip ranges from 5 to 15 percent.

Melbourne On A Budget

Melbourne is the second biggest city in Australia, behind Sydney. It is the state capital of Victoria and can be found in southern Australia. Melbourne, one of Australia's most populous cities, is a fantastic cultural destination.

Sydney and Melbourne are friendly competitors when it comes to liveability and beauty, but if you want to visit some theatres, galleries, stores, restaurants, and parks, you should go to Melbourne.

Its waterfront position is similar to that of Sydney, except that it sits at the head of Port Phillip Bay rather than the harbour. It's beautiful here, and you won't be bored even if it lacks Sydney's most recognisable sites like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Staying here is convenient for seeing nearby sights including the Great Ocean Road, Grampians National Park, and Phillip Island, site of the annual Penguin Parade.

Melbourne, Australia has a warm climate due to its oceanic location. The city is prey to harsh and irregular weather due to its position between the hot interior and the temperate southern shore.

In the summer and spring, the cold fronts are common, and with them come storms with high winds and sometimes damaging hail. Temperatures might hit 40 degrees Celsius at the peak of summer. In the winter, temperatures often drop to roughly 14 degrees.

Those who are considering a vacation to Melbourne will have a wonderful time. There is a wide variety of entertainment options in downtown. Some of Melbourne's most recognisable features are Flinders Street Station, the State Library, Parliament House, Queen Victoria Market, the Yarra River, Federation Square, the Eureka Tower, Southgate, Old Melbourne Gaol, and the Shrine of Remembrance.

Many museums and other historical places may be found in Carlton, while the Melbourne Zoo can be found near Parkville. If you're searching for a fun nightlife scene close to the water, St. Kilda is the place to go.

Neighbourhoods

The financial area and the city's historic centre are both located in what is called "City Centre" in Melbourne. Moreover, the trendy Docklands neighbourhood is featured. There is a vibrant nightlife and excellent dining options in the neighbourhood. A vacation to Southbank may be filled with fun activities like going on a river cruise or enjoying some of the city's best restaurants.

There are plenty of restaurants and beaches in St. Kilda. Both Albert Park and Port Melbourne are located in South Melbourne. The Inner East is home to Fitzroy, Richmond, and Collingwood, while the Inner North is where you'll find Carlton and Parkville. South Yarra and Toorak, Prahran, are all neighbourhoods inside Stonnington.

Activities, both indoor and outdoor, are abundant in and around Melbourne. Find interesting street art all throughout town as you go around the city. Sports competitions, theatrical performances, and concert halls may all be found here. All the major Australian holidays are celebrated in Melbourne with a broad variety of events, festivals, and activities.

In addition, Melbourne is a good starting place for exploring the rest of Victoria. The city of Melbourne is conveniently located close to several exciting day trip and weekend vacation options. Despite its fame, the Great Ocean Road is not the only place to see wildlife in the area. Phillip Island and the wine region are also well worth a visit.

Food And Dining

The food of Melbourne is wide, diverse, and very expensive. You should anticipate excellent service and a 10% tip as a minimum. Always leave a larger tip for outstanding service and utilise the tip to express your discontent with subpar treatment.

There is a plethora of dining alternatives, with some of the more touristic establishments located in the Carlton neighbourhood. Likewise, there is a wide variety of establishments on Southbank and Victoria Street. The most cost-effective dining alternatives, such as Vietnamese and Southeast Asian eateries, may be found in the Richmond neighbourhood. Sydney Road in Brunswick and Coburg is the place to go for Middle Eastern cuisine.

Transportation

Melbourne may be a huge city, yet the majority of the city's sights are concentrated in one area. In Melbourne, the public transit system, Metlink, is so reliable that you won't need a vehicle throughout your visit.

The trams, buses, and trains of Metlink make getting about the whole city a breeze. For visitors staying in Melbourne for less than five days, a day pass for Zone 1 may be purchased for about $7.

It might not be worth it to get a full-day pass if single-ticket costs are cheaper over the weekend. Make sure you weigh the benefits and drawbacks before committing to anything.

From Flinders Street Station, a large number of suburban trains use the City Loop to get to Southern Cross Station. Many trains operate, however they may get rather packed during peak times. One of the world's biggest tram networks may be found in Melbourne.

As a result, it goes through a considerable section of both inner and outer suburbs. The Docklands neighbourhood and the financial district are both accessible by the free City Circle tram. Passengers may ride the bus when other forms of public transit do not get there. More often than not, they go to the outskirts of the city to see the suburban centres there.

How Much Was Spent In Melbourne In 10 Days?

As one may guess, there were numerous distinctions between travelling in Southeast Asia and travelling in Melbourne, Australia. Pricing was a major point of differentiation. Although we knew Melbourne wouldn't be as inexpensive as Southeast Asia, we were nevertheless taken aback by the high cost of living.

The Cost Of Accommodation In Melbourne Is $415.

A private apartment or hut in Southeast Asia might be rented for under $10 per night. You won't find people acting like that in Melbourne. We picked the Melbourne neighbourhood of St. Kilda since it was cheaper. Although, a dormitory room was still just $35 a night.

During our time at Base St. Kilda, we resided in the sanctuary dorm, the best accommodation available to female service members. Breakfast wasn't provided, but the private toilets, huge showers, and hair dryers for each eight-bed dorm room more than made up for it.

Given that We spent 43 hours travelling there, we thought it prudent to book a hotel room for my arrival night. It cost me $112 for a double room since there were no singles available. Apollo Bay, on the Great Ocean Road, was the most affordable option for us, at just $25 for a single night. With 10 nights total, our total cost came to roughly $41.50 per night.

Visa For Australia: $25

To use Australia's electronic visa system, which they've been using for the last five years, and which cost us $25 each, we had to pay an additional fee. You fill out a web-based application, submit a credit card payment, and get approval by email. Easy to accomplish, and no paper is wasted in the process. To verify your visa status, customs officials will run your information through their databases upon your arrival.

Melbourne Food And Beverage Costs: $350

We did a poor job of monitoring my expenditures here, too. We conducted some preliminary calculations and found that our daily meal and drink costs amounted to about $35. We just had a few cocktails with two females from the hostel and a few beers with a third girl over the course of one night.

Though we saved money by buying granola bars and other snacks at the supermarket, we did not use the store's prepared foods section to make whole meals. Food isn't the only thing that's pricey in Melbourne. Subway and other generic Chinatown restaurants were the extent of our dining options.

Activities In Melbourne Cost $205

• Despite Melbourne's abundance of paid activities, we made good use of numerous of the city's free offerings.

My biggest cost in Australia was the two-day Great Ocean Road excursion we booked (at $185, without including accomodation (see above) or meals).

A small breakfast of fruit and cookies was provided in addition to your choice of tea or coffee and your morning beverage of choice (coffee, tea, or hot chocolate). In the morning, guests may help themselves to a complimentary breakfast that was provided by the hostel.

Additionally, the price of the ticket, which was $20, was quite painful. Worse, it was for the Twilight film in which Edward and Bella eventually get married (we won't even try to guess the title). Avoid making hasty conclusions. The two females we were having out with were our major incentive for attending.

Transportation In Melbourne Costs $50.

Getting from St. Kilda to Melbourne every day cost us $31 for a weeklong tram fare. Even after hopping on the wrong tram twice, we found the system to be straightforward.

After the first night, the hostel paid for the airport transfer, but on the way out, we had to pay $19.

Melbourne Miscellaneous Expenses: $105

The internet alone accounted for $69 of the price, so much for free access in hostels. McDonald's down the street had free internet, but we didn't feel like sitting in there for hours to write, Skype with Andy, and check email.

Postcards, a few garments, and a load of washing are also included in this, in addition to the internet. It cost me $12 to do a load of washing at the laundromat.

Spending Total For Melbourne: $1,150

During our 10 days in Melbourne, we spent an average of roughly $115 each day (not including airfare). If you prepare your own meals, you may save money on groceries. Changing hostels might help you save a little money.

There are cheaper day trips you may do along the Great Ocean Road, but we believe it's worth it to stay longer and see more of the region. Melbourne is an expensive city, yet it is possible to visit without going into debt and still have a wonderful time.

Visiting Melbourne for a week will set you back an average of AU$1,533. Spending a week in Melbourne with your significant other will earn you roughly AU$3,066. The second half of August and the first week of September is the least expensive period to visit Melbourne. The average price of a flight from Provincetown Municipal (PVC) to Melbourne, Australia (MEL) is $9,378. Between $33 and $36 will get you a night at a 1-star hotel.

Generally, Tuesday is the cheapest day of the week for flights entering and leaving the country. Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, is situated in the south of Australia. Port Phillip Bay's waterfront location is comparable to Sydney's, except that Melbourne lies at the bay's head rather than the harbour. Even though it doesn't have any of Sydney's most famous landmarks, you won't be bored here because of how gorgeous the area is. Melbourne's attractions and activities may be found in one central location.

Nightlife and eating are fantastic in Docklands, St. Kilda, and the Southbank. Melbourne has many events, festivals, and activities to commemorate Australia's national holidays. The Metlink system of trams, buses, and trains makes around Melbourne a pleasure. Many suburban trains depart from Flinders Street Station and travel the City Loop to Southern Cross Station. The cheapest place to stay was at Apollo Bay, on the Great Ocean Road, and it only cost us $25 for the night.

We were required to pay extra to utilise Australia's electronic visa system, which has been in place for the country for the last five years. The two-day Great Ocean Road tour we planned was my largest expense (at $185). Although Melbourne is a costly destination, it is still feasible to enjoy a vacation there without breaking the bank. A daily expenditure of about $115 was typical for us (not including airfare). Buying food might be expensive, but you can save money by cooking at home. To save costs, consider switching hostels.

Content Summary

• Moreover, the average cost of a night at a luxury hotel in Melbourne is AU$296 ($221). This results in an average cost of AU$3,066 ($2,289) for a week for two people to visit Melbourne.
• We have prepared this information on typical travel expenses based on information supplied by our customers to help you plan a reasonable budget for your trip.
• The total cost of a two-week trip to Melbourne, Australia, is AU$6,133. Travelling with three or four family members might help you save money since you can get cheaper tickets for the kids and book a room with more space.
• Generally, a night in a 1-star hotel will cost you between $33 and $36.Flights throughout the globe cost an average of $1,003 from late August to early September, falling to an average of $1,872 in late December.
• Our database has information on 274 departure airports and 157 airlines serving Melbourne.
• There is more pricing variation in the region than in other regions.
• Following our free flight advice and booking in advance, you can easily save over 87% on your next trip to Melbourne.
• The price difference between the lowest and most costly week is roughly $868.Daily expenses are less sensitive to changes in vacation plans.
• Generally speaking, a day of freebies and tips in Melbourne will set you back about AU$50.
• Melbourne, one of Australia's most populous cities, is a fantastic cultural destination.
• Melbourne, Australia, has a warm climate due to its oceanic location.
• There are plenty of restaurants and beaches in St. Kilda.
• Both Albert Park and Port Melbourne are located in South Melbourne.
• The food of Melbourne is wide, diverse, and very expensive.
• Melbourne may be a huge city, yet most of the city's sights are concentrated in one area.
• For visitors staying in Melbourne for less than five days, a day pass for Zone 1 may be purchased for about $7.It might not be worth getting a full-day pass if single-ticket costs are cheaper over the weekend.
• As one may guess, there were numerous distinctions between travelling in Southeast Asia and Melbourne, Australia.
• Although we knew Melbourne wouldn't be as inexpensive as Southeast Asia, we were nevertheless taken aback by the high cost of living.
• To use Australia's electronic visa system, which they've been using for the last five years and which cost us $25 each, we had to pay an additional fee.
• Customs officials will run your information through their databases to verify your visa status upon your arrival.
• We conducted some preliminary calculations and found that our daily meal and drink costs amounted to about $35.
• Subway and other generic Chinatown restaurants were the extents of our dining options.
• My highest cost in Australia was the two-day Great Ocean Road excursion we booked (at $185, without including accomodation (see above) or meals). A breakfast of fruit and cookies was provided in addition to your choice of tea or coffee and your morning beverage (coffee, tea, or hot chocolate).
• In the morning, guests may help themselves to a complimentary breakfast the hostel provides.
• Getting from St. Kilda to Melbourne daily costs us $31 for a weeklong tram fare.
• After the first night, the hostel paid for the airport transfer, but on the way out, we had to pay $19.The internet alone accounted for $69 of the price, so much for the free access in hostels.
• Postcards, a few garments, and a load of washing are included in this, in addition to the internet.
• During our ten days in Melbourne, we spent an average of roughly $115 daily (not including airfare).
• If you prepare your meals, you may save money on groceries.
• Changing hostels might help you save a little money.
• There are cheaper day trips you may do along the Great Ocean Road, but it's worth it to stay longer and see more of the region.
• Melbourne is expensive, yet it is possible to visit without going into debt and still have a wonderful time.

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Table of Contents Add a header to begin generating the table of contents The average daily price for visitors in Melbourne is AU$219 (about $164), so plan on spending around that amount throughout your stay there. A typical day's budget for a tourist includes AU$37 ($28) for lunch and AU$24 ($18) for transportation. Moreover, the […]

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Equal parts dynamic, cosmopolitan, sports-mad and arty, Melbourne simultaneously exudes style and keeps its best spots hidden, inviting discovery by food and culture lovers.

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St Paul’s Cathedral

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The PERFECT Melbourne Itinerary for 4 to 7 Days | Travel Guide

There’s a reason that the Australian city of Melbourne held onto the mantle of the “World’s Most Liveable City” for so many years in a row, and this Melbourne itinerary has got it all covered.

In a short amount of time, you can be transported from one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Australia to some of the best coastlines. This Melbourne travel itinerary will go over everything you need to know and do to experience the best that this incredible Aussie destination has to offer.

The capital of the south-eastern Australian state of Victoria, the appeal of Melbourne doesn’t seem to be losing any steam. Each year, the city welcomes 12 million domestic and international visitors and is rapidly overtaking Sydney, Australia as a must-see Australian city. Whether you are spending 4 days in Melbourne or up to a week (or even more!), it’s a place you won’t want to leave in a hurry. 

It’s one of my personal favorite cities in the world, and I’m always looking for a way to get back!

Melbourne Itinerary Overview

I’ve visited Melbourne on a couple of occasions now, and every time I visit I find myself thinking how much I would love to live there. It’s a city that will steal your heart and (despite its unpredictable weather), delivers the best food and coffee in the country and has a strange way of keeping you in its grasp for much longer than you ever thought.

There are so many incredible things to do to keep you busy during your time here that one week in Melbourne won’t ever feel like it’s enough.

I put together this Melbourne 7-day itinerary, but it’s also a helpful destination guide for if you only have 2 days, 4 days, or 6 days in the city – I know you’ll get some great ideas!

My 7-day Melbourne itinerary covers all of the major landmarks and day trip options that are highly recommended and even includes some insider tips that I picked up while there. These include the best places to eat, drink, and party!

I’ve also included some other helpful Melbourne travel tips to ensure your visit is a breeze!

What are the best things to do in Melbourne?

My Melbourne travel guide goes deep into all of the weird and wonderful things to do in the Victorian capital, but here’s a quick breakdown of what’s included. 

• Eat up big in Melbourne’s famous laneway cafes and immerse yourself in the city’s hipster vibe. 
• Sip on Melbourne’s world-famous coffee – it’s truly the best!
• Get involved in the sporting action that the city is renowned for. 
• Shop up a storm at premier retailers across Melbourne. 
• Win big at Crown Casino, one of the country’s best entertainment complexes. 
• Travel down the coast to the majestic Great Ocean Road or into the mountains of the Dandenong Ranges. 
• Cuddle up with cute Australian animals at Melbourne Zoo or Werribee Open Range Zoo. 
• Enjoy the sunshine and take a dip at one of Melbourne’s many picturesque beaches. 

Plus much more! Keep scrolling for an in-depth look at these Melbourne activities! 

Where should I stay in Melbourne?

Melbourne is a cultural melting pot with distinctly different neighborhood aesthetics, reminiscent of eternal world favorites London and Paris. A far-reaching metropolis that is ever-expanding as more and more people lay roots here, Melbourne accommodation has something for everyone.

Here are just a few of my recommended picks of where to stay on your Melbourne itinerary. 

Booking.com is always my favorite way of booking travel accommodation, and Melbourne is such a fantastic city to have your apartment to get a sense of local life. There are countless incredible apartments available all across the city and often work out cheaper than booking a hotel room!

• Brand New Apartment With Balcony, Gym, and Sauna (Located in Richmond, one of the coolest inner-city suburbs)
• Incredible 3-Bed Home in The Heart of St Kilda (St Kilda – right near the beach and an amazing bar scene!)
• The Marker Apartments Melbourne (Right in the heart of the action in the Melbourne CBD!)

Which Melbourne hotel should I stay at?

What if you want to stay at a hotel while enjoying a week in Melbourne? I have some incredible recommendations for that stay style too.

Park Hyatt Melbourne – One of my favorite hotels I’ve stayed at while exploring Melbourne. Great location, food, customer service, and overall amazing experience. While it’s on the luxury side of things, it’s absolutely worth it!

Selina Central Melbourne – If you’re looking to save a bit of money, then there’s no better place to stay than the iconic Selina Brand, which is known around the world for their amazing hostels and communities. It’s the BETS location right opposite the iconic Flinders Street Station in the heart of Melbourne, and 

Credit: Park Hyatt Melbourne

How many days should I spend in Melbourne?

Trying to decide how long to spend in Melbourne isn’t an easy choice. On the one hand, a visit to the city can be very expensive; but on the other, it’s a widespread city and needs more than just a few days to be fully experienced.

That’s why I created this guide. Technically,  a 4-day Melbourne Itinerary would be enough, but I also stretched the itinerary below to 7 days, which gives you more time to explore. I would say between 4 and 7 days is ideal.

The answer to this question will be based on your preferences and available time for your trip in Australia, but make sure you start every morning with a cup of delicious Melbourne coffee or two!

What is the best time to visit Melbourne?

Now that you’ve figured out how long you want to stay, it’s time to decide when should you visit Melbourne! While the summer season is between December and March and these months are more expensive than others, I’d recommend coming here during the shoulder seasons between March and May (autumn) and September and November (spring). 

During these two periods, the temperature is mild enough for you to enjoy some of this week-long Melbourne itinerary on foot, and it also won’t hurt your wallet too much.

If you’re heading to Melbourne on a budget, head down during the low season between June and August. This is winter in Melbourne, but winters here aren’t as cold as winter in the Northern Hemisphere, and the sun often comes out! Winter in Melbourne is the cheapest time to visit the city, but you’ll have to be content with the somewhat chilly weather and occasional rainfall. But this is also a great time to visit for winter lovers as you can go ice skating and skiing just outside the city, amongst other activities!

How do I get around Melbourne? 

Melbourne is famous for having one of the most extensive and well-serviced public transport networks in Australia, and getting around the city is relatively easy. Either way, there’s always a friendly local to ask for directions! It is Australia, after all. 

First things first. To use Melbourne public transport you need a Myki card, which is an easy-to-use tap-on/tap-off card, just like other world cities have in place. The card itself is cheap and sold at most premium stations, and you just top it up with money as needed. Myki covers not just Melbourne City but regional Victoria as well, and only recently, the government has made travelling across Melbourne or into the countryside even cheaper, with a capped per-day rate regardless of how far you travel on Myki. How cool is that!

Melbourne public transport options

Melbourne has a detailed rail network, which services not just the CBD (including the underground portion known as “The Loop”), but the outer suburbs and beyond too. They also have a ton of bus lines that criss-cross the city, and they have one little other things that sets them apart from the rest of Australia… trams! Melbourne’s famous tram system is smooth and streamlined and services the inner city and city fringe, passing through some of the coolest and most sought-after suburbs. One of the best things about Melbourne trams? The city also offers a “Free Tram Zone”, which means you don’t have to pay to cruise on Melbourne trams within the city centre! In addition, Melbourne has a handy “Night Network”, which runs all-night train, bus and tram services on weekends. This is fantastic if you’re planning a big weekend hitting Melbourne’s many bars and clubs!

Public Transport Victoria is your one-stop site for all Melbourne public transport timetables, routes, fare estimates and any other information you may need.

Other ways to get around Melbourne

If you’re eager to get where you’re going without trying to make sense of a Melbourne public transport map, the city is saturated by ride share options, including Uber Melbourne and Lyft, which can be a fair bit less expensive than Melbourne’s 13 CABS , which can cost a pretty penny, especially at peak periods or on holidays. There’s ferries that service the seaside locales of the city, and you can even rent a Lime Bike , an electric bike share service offered by the City of Melbourne. Just scan the QR code on a bike through the Lime or Uber app, and away you go!

Finally, if you want to have the freedom of coming and going where you want, when you want, you can easily hire a car in Melbourne. Hertz and Budget are major car rental companies available across Melbourne, and offer flexible pick-up and drop-off locations and times. Uber now offers a cost-effective carshare service as well!

You’ll have zero issue getting around Melbourne, thanks to its extensive public transport service and other travel offerings. The city is so well covered that getting from A to B is a breeze. 

Melbourne Itinerary Breakdown: 

Okay, I’ve rambled enough. It’s now time to get into the best itinerary Melbourne has to offer! Keep reading to learn more, but here’s a great starting point to get a basic idea of how to make the most of your time here!

• Day 1: Laneway Eateries & All The Coffee
• Day 2: Sporting Tours & A Culture In Spades
• Day 3: World-Class Shopping & High Rolling
• Day 4: Day Trip To The Coast – Or The Mountains!
• Day 5: Seaside Fun In St Kilda
• Day 6: Hang out with Australian furry friends
• Day 7: Explore hipster inner-city hangouts

Melbourne Itinerary Day 1: Laneway Eateries & All The Coffee

If you’ve traveled from abroad, the long flight to Melbourne might have left you feeling a little jetlagged. Take this opportunity to decompress and fuel up your energy levels with the coffee that Melbourne is world famous for. During your Melbourne trip, you’ll likely be enjoying many great coffees. Make sure to order an Aussie icon, the flat white. 

Melbourne is famous for its artistic, often grungy laneways, and these hip walkways are packed with some of the best cafes and eateries the city has to offer. Centre Place is a standout. Even if you are only doing a Melbourne 4-day itinerary, this is one of the must-visits.

Where is the best coffee in Melbourne?

My top five recommendations for central Melbourne cafes or coffee shops that serve up a roast you will want to write home about are…

Pellegrini’s Espresso Bar – “Pellegrini’s is all about character, honest Italian fare and coffee. In fact, it is said (by Pellegrini’s themselves) that the first espresso machine to arrive in Melbourne was delivered here in 1954 – opening the gates to a city-wide obsession.”

Proud Mary – “We take great pride in supporting and representing coffee producers and communities. We visit our producers each year and venture into their farms, homes and families. This is a relationship. We discover who they are, what motivates them and how we can support one another. Through this tangible form, we generate mutual understanding and appreciation. These are the true rock stars of coffee, the story starts with the producer.”

Axil Coffee Roasters – “Our aim has always been simple; to source, roast and produce the best cup of coffee. We have a passionate and enthusiastic team who travel the globe to find the best specialty coffee available. We are continuously building relationships with coffee producers to ensure we are getting the highest quality.”

Dukes Coffee Roasters – “We are an Australian specialty coffee roasting company whose focus is the craft of carefully roasting the best coffees in the world using innovative and methodic roasting practices. We are committed to bringing the best selection of exceptionally grown, amazing tasting, and in-season specialty coffees to cafes and consumers in Australia.”

Auction Rooms – “We believe in quality, detail, great food, and good vibes. Combine that with a backdrop that will take your breath away and we are well on the way to hosting the most memorable of events for you.”

Where should I eat in Melbourne? 

After inflight “food” from hell, I’m sure you’ve got a raging appetite too, and you’ve touched down in the right city to satisfy any palate. Melbourne has been a cultural melting pot of international influences since its earliest days, and that has spilled over into not only coffee, but food as well. Culinary delights can be found on every corner of this beautiful city. But tonight, I recommend heading straight for the center of epic Asian food in Melbourne, Chinatown! Melbourne’s Chinatown is located in the heart of the CBD.

Once you’ve found your way there, make a beeline for the locally-loved Shanghai Dumpling House . This rickety old building is always heaving with visitors and locals filling up on their share of pork dumplings, Shanghai fried noodles, and Chinese broccoli. You won’t regret it.

“Looking for a “cheap & cheerful”? Tight budgets are never a problem here, with meals from around $10, served with complimentary Chinese tea.

Melbourne Itinerary Day 2: Sporting Tours & A Culture In Spades

Today you’re hopefully feeling fresher and with endless energy to make the most of your time in this vibrant city tackling this 4-day Melbourne itinerary. You’ve sampled some gold-star food and coffee, but now it’s time for sports lovers to get excited.

Melbourne is often referred to as the “sporting capital of Australia” – and for good reason. A year-round sporting schedule sees globally-recognized events hit town, with cricket, AFL (Australian Football or “footy”), and tennis being the main players that locals can’t get enough of.

The MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) runs tours of the holy grail of Aussie cricket, where you’ll get to walk on the very turf legends of the game have played on. You can also enjoy a tour of the various rooms, including player changing rooms.

If tennis is more your style and you don’t miss a minute of the Australian Open Grand Slam each year, you’ll have a blast on the Australian Open Tour, which takes you around the major arenas of the tournament, including Rod Laver Arena. There’s a range of Melbourne Park tours available, where you’ll be treated like a top seed yourself.

Melbourne Itinerary Day 3: World-Class Shopping & High Rolling

Day three in Melbourne has to be spent blowing some cold hard cash. After all, it’s just another reason visitors flock here throughout the year. Melbourne is a shopper’s paradise, with a long list of shopping centers, laneways, and city streets selling all the wares you could ever dream of. 

Chadstone Shopping Centre referred to as “The Fashion Capital”, is located in suburban Melbourne, approximately 20 minutes from the city center. It is the biggest shopping center in Australia. A free shuttle bus service for tourists runs to and from Melbourne Central to Chadstone each hour, so there’s no reason not to check it out while you visit Melbourne.

If you’re looking for other ideal shopping locations and love authentic markets, The QV Market and South Melbourne Market are other great options in Melbourne. If you happen to be in Melbourne on Sunday morning, get down to the hipster paradise of the Camberwell Market , on the city centre fringe bright and early and find a one-off treasure. It’s a huge flea market and wildly popular, and there’s hot jam donut and coffee stands to fuel you, if that tempts you. It tempts me!

Other top Melbourne shopping spots include DFO South Wharf for heavily discounted bargains and the famous Bourke Street Mall smack bang in the center of the city. 

Now that you’ve picked up a knockout outfit on your Melbourne shopping free, wear it somewhere deserving tonight and head to Crown Casino , located on Southbank. This huge, glittering casino runs alongside the Yarra River, and you can’t miss the riverside fire display each night. Inside, try your hand at blackjack or attempt to talk your way into the VIP high rollers area.

On your way home, if you’ve enjoyed a few drinks (or “bevvies”, as the Aussie say) you definitely need a good meal to put some pep in your step. Head over to one of Melbourne’s only 24-hour eateries, Stalactites , on Lonsdale Street. This Greek restaurant is a dining institution, and they won’t judge you for eating a souvlaki at 6am (that’s a Greek-style Aussie gyros). My kind of place!

Melbourne Itinerary Day 4: Day Trip To The Coast – Or The Mountains!

You’ve spent a few days exploring the incredible city limits of Melbourne, so now is the perfect time to pack your bag and head off on a day trip to experience a little of what Greater Melbourne has to offer.

Melbourne has so many doable day trips that it’s hard to pick the best, but the iconic Great Ocean Road has to be ticked off any bucket list.

Drive Along The Majestic Great Ocean Road

Whether you’re renting a car and doing it yourself, or taking advantage of the endless number of tour companies that run trips down this stunning slice of Aussie coastline, the Great Ocean Road is really deserving of a few days if you have it to spare.

Starting on the outskirts of Geelong, approximately 40 minutes from Melbourne CBD, this long and winding coastal road takes you through an array of gorgeous Victorian towns with crashing ocean views. Don’t miss world-famous surfing and swimming destinations like Bells Beach, Lorne, Torquay, Apollo Bay, Port Campbell, and Port Fairy.

Like every other visitor who has ever found themselves on the Great Ocean Road, you have to stop off at the natural formation that is the  12 Apostles , and take a snap to upload to the socials and make everyone back home green with envy. To do the entire Great Ocean Road right down to the Twelve Apostles and Port Fairy and back again, you’ll need about 10 hours at an absolute minimum. That’s taking into consideration stopping off at major lookouts and for a bite to eat along the way. It’s 275 km one way, after all.

For more information, check out this awesome Great Ocean Road Trip Itinerary for everything you need to know! Looking for other outdoor activities but closer to the city? Head down to the Mornington Peninsula or stick around the city centre and wander through the lush landscape that is the Royal Botanic Gardens .

Immerse Yourself In The Dandenong Ranges

If you’d choose the mountains over the beach any day of the week, another popular day trip that’s a lot more manageable time-wise than the Great Ocean Road is  the Dandenong Ranges,  a breathtaking natural landscape and less than an hour from the city.

This mountain range is located to the east of Melbourne, with their peak, Mount Dandenong, topping the range. The Dandenong Range are full of charming small towns, gardens, restaurants, cafes, hotels, and hikes. The 1000 Steps (official name the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk ) is an uphill trek that is absolutely packed with visitors most days but worth it to say you made it! It’s a serious test of your fitness, but you can go at any pace you want.

While you’re touring around the Ranges, enjoy a ride on the Victorian institution, Puffing Billy . This historic steam train winds its way from Belgrave to Gembrook through lush Australian bush. 

If you still have the energy upon your return to Melbourne, head to inner-city Carlton – specifically Lygon Street. This is a street name everyone in Melbourne knows – for a lot of reasons. Not only is it the unofficial home of Italian influence in Melbourne, but it serves up some of the best Italian food you’ll get your hands on in Australia. Melbourne’s answer to “Little Italy” is also a location where a lot of the well-documented Gangland Wars of the 1990s and 2000s took place. Culturally enriched, Lygon is where it’s at.

With that, you’d have been about done with what to do in Melbourne for 4 days, but I have a few more ways to spend days 5 to 7 in the city, if you’re sticking around. I’d recommend it!

Melbourne Itinerary Day 5: Seaside Fun In St Kilda

You’re still here! Awesome. That means that you’re planning on spending a little more time in the city of Melbourne. Great choice! 5 days in Melbourne gives you an extra day to explore.

After a day like yesterday, that no doubt involved a lot of walking (did you manage the 1000 Steps?), your fifth day in beautiful Melbourne is going to be a little slower, with lots of time allocated for R&R. If you’ve come to Melbourne during spring or summer, you’re in luck, as heading to the beach here is a popular pastime that you should reserve some time for. 

Head down to iconic St Kilda, a beachside suburb of Melbourne a short distance from the city. You can get there from the CBD on one of the city’s iconic trams and tick that off your list as well.

The St Kilda Esplanade stretches along the coast, from Fitzroy Street, a hub for eating and partying, to Acland Street , where achingly trendy bars and pubs exist alongside the landmark amusement park, Luna Park .

If you are lucky enough to visit St Kilda on a Sunday, the Esplanade Market stretches the length of the road and overlooks the sea, selling everything you could imagine. Other than that, you can visit the South Melbourne Market just up the road, which opens between Wednesday and Sunday with traders ranging from food stalls to florists.

Take a dip in Port Philip Bay, soak up some of that (really strong) Aussie sun, walk along St Kilda Pier, and visit the penguins. About five minutes from St Kilda Beach is Brighton Beach, which I recommend for a photo op in front of its unique Bathing Boxes. From a ginger to you, I recommend packing some sunscreen for your day on the beach. 

Back to St Kilda, the area is filled to the brim with incredible bars and clubs, and a night out here is like no other. If it’s a summer night, there’s a unique hippy vibe to it that’s indescribable.

What are the best bars in St Kilda, Melbourne?

After a sunny day on the beach or jumping off St Kilda Pier, it’s time to enjoy a refreshing Aussie ale at one of the burb’s best bars and live music venues, which the neighborhood is positively packed with. A few St Kilda bars I recommend are…

• The Vineyard
• The Esplanade Hotel (“The Espy”)
• The Local Taphouse 
• The Prince of Wales Hotel

If your day/night out in St Kilda gets particularly messy, head back to your hotel via Chapel Street in Windsor and experience the grungiest, dirtiest and potentially the most fun time of your life at Revolver . With tons of dark rooms pumping everything from hip-hop to electronic and techno, it’s a night you won’t forget. Or may actually, forget. I can speak to that. 

Melbourne Itinerary Day 6: Hang out with Australian furry friends

No trip to Melbourne, or Australia as a whole, is complete without a visit with some of the country’s native animals. And no, I don’t mean those animals that are popular for terrorizing Australians. I mean those cute, fluffy, and friendly critters. Your friends expect a picture of you cuddling a koala, so make it happen. 

Which Melbourne zoos should I visit?

Luckily for those visiting Melbourne, there are a number of zoos and sanctuaries you can get to that are a stone’s throw from the city. Melbourne Zoo , probably the most heavily trafficked, is a short train ride from the CBD and is home to over 5,000 Aussie and international animals. If checking out some of Australia’s (often bizarre-looking) furry inhabitants is on your agenda, head to the koala, kangaroo, platypus, Tasmanian Devil, and wombat enclosures.

Werribee Open Range Zoo is slightly further afield but can be reached by car in about 40 minutes. A more interactive, natural environment than Melbourne Zoo, Werribee Zoo lets you get up close and personal with some majestic beasts in a safari-style habitat. You can even do a “Slumber Safari”, where you sleep amongst the lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!) under the stars in a luxury camp.

Finally, Healesville Sanctuary , nestled the picturesque Yarra Valley and just an hour from Melbourne, is another natural bush haven for native wildlife. Wandering around Healesville Sanctuary is a joy, as the location has conservation and care for the animals foremost in its mind.

Hot tip: A day at these wildlife parks involves a lot of walking, so wear sensible footwear.

Melbourne Itinerary Day 7: Explore hipster inner-city hangouts & Night Tour

It’s your final day in Melbourne, and I bet you’ve had an absolute blast and are devastated (“devo”, to Aussie) to leave. Don’t worry, I’ve got a final treat in store for you to cap off your trip. Get your skinny jeans and your fedora on because the most hipster suburbs of Melbourne await you.

Exploding in popularity in recent decades, the urban, inner-city hubs of Fitzroy, Brunswick, and Northcote have transformed themselves from some of the least-coveted suburbs to topping the list of the most in-demand real estate in the city. The hippest of Melbourne’s cool crowd either live in or flock to these neighborhoods to be seen at the unique bars, clubs, thrift stores and cafes that cram the streets.

What are the coolest suburbs in Melbourne?

In trendy inner-city Fitzroy, I recommend The Rum Diary for a well-earnt drink or  Naked for Satan for a wild night out with a superior view of the Melbourne skyline. Always buzzing, Brunswick is packed with bars, coffee shops, and unique shopping along Sydney Road, so pick up a strong espresso at warehouse cafe Lux Foundry and rub shoulders with the in-crowd.

For a few bevvies, don’t miss Howler . Northcote is a suburb close to Melbourne CBD that is so damn hip it makes you instantly feel inferior. The entire city knows the institution, Northcote Social Club , a popular venue for regular live entertainment, gigs, and a great outdoor deck where you can smash some of the best eats and drinks in Melbourne.

While you’re exploring the inner-city suburbs of Melbourne, take a leaf out of the local’s book and be sure to spend some time wandering around the many “op shops” (thrift stores, as we Americans say) and vintage stores. You are sure to pick up a one-off treasure that will remind you fondly of your time in Melbourne.

Where can I see art in Melbourne?

After spending a couple of hours in the inner-city, Melbourne’s famous street art won’t go unnoticed. Its famous laneways are often heaving with budding photographers, taking snaps of its street art. For the best street art in Melbourne, head to AC/DC Lane (yep!), Caledonian Lane, Hosier Lane and Degraves St, just for starters.

If you’re in the mood for taking in some classic art, be sure to pop into the National Gallery of Victoria . One of Australia’s best museums, the NGV is home to thousands of pieces of both Australian and foreign art, and regularly host exciting events or nighttime shindigs. 

What’s a fun Melbourne night tour to do?

Tonight, do something a little different and sign up for a spooky nighttime Melbourne tour. There’s a range of tours that takes you on foot through the darkened streets of this awesome city, telling you twisted, scary stories of Melbourne of the past and the ghosts that lurk down its eerie laneways. Or head to the eerie Old Melbourne Gaol for a frighteningly good time on the “ Hangman’s Night Tour “. 

Melbourne Itinerary Tours and Experiences 

Tackling Melbourne on your own is pretty easy, but I definitely recommend using tours to see more of the city with a local guide. There are a number of you can look at during this Melbourne 1 week itinerary, including the following:

• From Melbourne: Phillip Island Penguin Parade Eco Tour : “Experience the magic of Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park on a bus tour from Melbourne. Enjoy views at Cape Woolamai prior to visiting the world-famous Penguin Parade on Phillip Island.”
• Melbourne: Complete City Walking Tour : “Join your tour guide for a walk through Australia’s culture capital and learn what makes this city great and so much more.”
• Melbourne: Hidden Alleyways, Ghosts and Best Instagram Spots : “Travel back to 19th-century Melbourne on a 1.5-hour ghost tour of the most haunted and Instagrammed locations. Discover hidden lanes, historic buildings, and spooks that still linger on the city streets.”

And there you have it.

My tips for the best week-long Melbourne tour itinerary . I hope you find it as diverse and enjoyable as this world-class city.

Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance!

Whether you are heading to Melbourne for just a few days or embarking on a lengthy trip around Australia, travel insurance is absolutely essential. Have you seen some of the crazy animals they have Down Under, or indeed, how expensive some things can be in Australia?

Getting sick or having items stolen while traveling is rare, but when it does happen, it can be an absolute nightmare. Having insurance (which is essential for visas in some countries) will give you the peace of mind that if anything terrible does happen, you are covered.

I highly recommend HeyMondo due to their extensive range of cover for all situations and trip lengths, their fair pricing, and their handy app, which allows you to not only manage any claims within the app but also access free assistance online, so you don’t need to rack up an expensive phone bill while abroad!

So, whether you need a single trip cover or an affordable annual cover for multiple trips worldwide, be sure to buy your travel insurance before you travel and relax during your trip, knowing that HeyMondo has your back. Nowadays I would never travel without insurance again, especially after hearing so many (expensive and dangerous) horror stories from other travelers I’ve met!

Still planning your trip? Get a no-obligation  travel insurance quote now, so you have an idea of how much extra to budget for your vacation. 

Planning a trip to Australia?

I’ve got so much love for this country, and I think everyone needs to visit down under at least once in their life. I actually lived and worked in Sydney for a year, and I miss it so damn much. I’ve written a lot about Australia, so check out some of my other top articles!

• Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
• 30 Music Festivals in Australia To Experience Before You
• Top 30 Music Festivals in Melbourne
• 14 Words You’ll Start Saying When You Move to Australia
• The Ultimate Guide For Moving To Sydney on a Working Holiday Visa
• Cairns – Sydney: The Ultimate Greyhound Bus Pass Itinerary
• The 15 Best Music Festivals in Sydney
• 15 Best Beach Resorts In Australia
• 15 Best Yurts In Australia For A Glamping Getaway
• 57 Quotes About Australia  

Thanks so much for reading my Melbourne Itinerary!

If you’re not already following me, be sure to check out my Facebook & Instagram for more of my international adventures!! As always, if you have any questions about anything you read, feel free to shoot me a DM or email me. I’m happy to help any way I can!

suggesting shopping….seriously? who goes to melbourne to do shopping? no comment…

Everyone in Australia would go to Melbourne to shop, I reckon. It’s considered to be the prime shopping destination in the country and was the first place to have Direct Factory Outlets, years and years ago. Now there’s plenty of boutique stores selling all sorts of interesting things.

Hi, great site and awesome insights. Very helpful to get an overview before I book the tickets :) I am planning for a 10-12 day vacation in australia from India this August. Is it a good time to visit? I would like to cover the best, most in a little relaxed mode with medium budget to spend. Travelling with husband and 2 kids under 10 years of age. Any tips, itinerary options are welcome! PS: I am a photographer and would appreciate any specific photography spots/times.

I’d definite;y make sure you do the Great Ocean Road for a few days! It’s a must for photographers! :-)

The Park Hyatt was way out of my league. But i stayed there as a treat to myself at the end of a business trip.

Hey ! thanks for such a great post.and many interesting point are cover in this blog. again thanks for a posting a interesting artical…

Thank you very much for all your beautiful pictures and ideas!! We are going to visit Australia next month. You give/ gave us a lot of inspiration!!!

Excellent post it is very helpful and knowledgeable content good work keep it up. Makes me want to visit Melbourne again so bad

Thanks so much for the article.Really thank you! Keep writing. What’s your favorite thing to do in Melbourne?

Excellent post, although I generally don’t like Australia. I think if you were to travel to Australia Melbourne is the best city to go to.

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How much does it cost to travel to Melbourne?

You should plan to spend around $176 (AU$271) per day on your vacation in Melbourne. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $30 (AU$46) on meals
• $20 (AU$30) on local transportation
• $237 (AU$364) on hotels

A one week trip to Melbourne for two people costs, on average, $2,470 (AU$3,791) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 176 AU$ 271
• One Week Per person $ 1,235 AU$ 1,896
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 2,470 AU$ 3,791
• One Month Per person $ 5,294 AU$ 8,125
• One Week For a couple $ 2,470 AU$ 3,791
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 4,941 AU$ 7,583
• One Month For a couple $ 10,588 AU$ 16,249

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Melbourne cost?

A one week trip to Melbourne usually costs around $1,235 (AU$1,896) for one person and $2,470 (AU$3,791) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Melbourne on average costs around $2,470 (AU$3,791) for one person and $4,941 (AU$7,583) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Melbourne will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Melbourne on average costs around $5,294 (AU$8,125) for one person and $10,588 (AU$16,249) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Melbourne has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in Melbourne are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within the Pacific, which is known to be an expensive region, Melbourne is a somewhat more expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in the Pacific for its travel costs. While some cities in the region are more expensive, Melbourne is generally more expensive than most.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Melbourne Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Melbourne?

The average Melbourne trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Melbourne travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Melbourne

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Melbourne is $119 (AU$182). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Melbourne is $237 (AU$364). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 119 AU$ 182
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 237 AU$ 364

Hotel Prices in Melbourne

Looking for a hotel in Melbourne? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Melbourne based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $111. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Werribee Park Motor Inn Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 94
• Gracehill Accommodation Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 124

Transportation Budget in Melbourne

The cost of a taxi ride in Melbourne is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $20 (AU$30) per person, per day, on local transportation in Melbourne.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 20 AU$ 30

Recommended Services

• Luxury Airport Transfers & Best Limo Service in Melbourne Viator $ 103
• Melbourne Airport Transfers Viator $ 112

Flights to Melbourne

Rental cars in melbourne, what did other people spend on transportation in melbourne.

Typical prices for Transportation in Melbourne are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Melbourne, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Airport Bus AU$ 16
• Tram Ride AU$ 3.80

Food Budget in Melbourne

While meal prices in Melbourne can vary, the average cost of food in Melbourne is $30 (AU$46) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Melbourne should cost around $12 (AU$19) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Melbourne is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 30 AU$ 46

Recommended

• Street Food of Asia Cooking Class Viator $ 131
• The Q Train - First Class For 2 - Dinner (Departing Drysdale) Viator $ 251

What did other people spend on Food in Melbourne?

Typical prices for Food in Melbourne are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Melbourne, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Coffee AU$ 4.00
• Pizza AU$ 7.00

Entertainment Budget in Melbourne

Entertainment and activities in Melbourne typically cost an average of $27 (AU$42) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 27 AU$ 42

Recommended Activities

• Small Group: Mornington Peninsula Hike and Hot Springs Day Tour from Melbourne Viator $ 185
• Mornington Peninsula Wine Region Tour Viator $ 232

Tips and Handouts Budget in Melbourne

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Melbourne is $41 (AU$63) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Melbourne is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 41 AU$ 63

Alcohol Budget in Melbourne

The average person spends about $17 (AU$25) on alcoholic beverages in Melbourne per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 17 AU$ 25
• Wine Tour Yarra Valley, Vic - inc. 2 course lunch + glass… Viator $ 173
• MELBOURNE Spirits and Ales Haunted Pub Tour Viator $ 26

What did other people spend on Alcohol in Melbourne?

Typical prices for Alcohol in Melbourne are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Melbourne, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Bottle of Wine AU$ 7.75

Water Budget in Melbourne

On average, people spend $1.22 (AU$1.88) on bottled water in Melbourne per day. The public water in Melbourne is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 1.22 AU$ 1.88

Related Articles

Melbourne on a budget.

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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PUBLISHED: 11 APRIL 2024

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