australia places to visit in melbourne

The 14 best experiences in Melbourne

Oct 26, 2023 • 8 min read

Plan to spend some of your time soaking up Melbourne cafe culture © Noelia Ramon - TellingLife / Getty Images

You'll need more than a couple of days to truly get to know Melbourne . With steel-and-glass high-rise buildings and historic architecture, complemented by a richly multicultural population, this is a city with many layers and histories to uncover. 

Begin your explorations at Federation Square  – the nexus of many of the city's main sights – to orientate yourself before ticking off these quintessential Melbourne experiences. From high culture to local life, we have your Melbourne visit covered. 

1. Decide the "best coffee" in Melbourne is at...

It may have been Italian immigrants who first brought a passion for quality coffee to these shores, but now the tide has turned, and Aussies (and Kiwis) are leaders in the dark arts of the espresso machine. Declaring it may risk an international incident, but Melbourne is the coffee capital of the Antipodes and – perhaps – the world.

You can get a first-rate cup anywhere in Melbourne these days, but stalwarts of the city's coffee scene can be found everywhere from Seven Seeds in North Melbourne to Proud Mary in Collingwood, Market Lane Coffee in Prahran Market, Wide Open Road in Brunswick, St Ali in South Melbourne, Monk Bhodi Dharma in St Kilda, Patricia in the city… when we said almost anywhere in Melbourne, we meant it. 

2. Photograph Melbourne's murals and street art

Nothing screams Melbourne quite as loudly as a graffiti-covered lane or a city building bedecked in a huge public mural. The most famous (and most photographed) laneway of them all is Hosier Lane , with little Rutledge Lane jutting off it like a separate wing of the same gallery.

There are plenty of other such street art stretches to discover around the city center and beyond. Juxtaposed with the rough beauty of these lanes, dainty Victorian arcades tempt shoppers into their rarified confines.   

3. Explore the National Gallery of Victoria's two campuses 

The state gallery's extraordinary collection is too big to fit into its magnificent modernist home in Southbank and has had to be split between two locations. NGV Australia occupies the Ian Potter Centre in Federation Square, bringing significant local art right into the city's civic heart.

The Aboriginal collection is a must-see. In the main Southbank building, NGV International displays treasures from a who's who of art history, past and present, stretching back into antiquity and to all parts of the globe. Aside from special exhibitions, both galleries are free.

4. Learn about Aboriginal bush medicine at the Royal Botanic Gardens

Stretching for 38 glorious hectares on the south bank of the Yarra River, the Royal Botanic Gardens are one of the best examples of Victorian-era garden landscaping in the world. Alongside wonderful displays of Australian native flora are mature exotic trees and themed gardens devoted to roses, succulents, herbs and ferns.

If time allows, book the Aboriginal Heritage tour to learn about Indigenous plants and also gain some insight into how Melbourne became a city so blessed with parks and gardens. During the day, picnickers sprawl on the extensive lawns while kids flock to the children's garden.

Planning tip:  On summer nights people get comfy in the gardens to watch moonlight cinema or theatre under the stars. 

5. Relax for an afternoon at Abbotsford Convent and Gardens

No nuns remain – singing, flying or otherwise – at this 19th-century convent , but there are plenty of arty types to be found lurking amid the historic buildings, which have been converted into studios, galleries, cafes, a bakery, a bar, and a vegetarian restaurant where patrons pay by donation.

Melburnians come for the regular markets and to stroll the riverside grounds. The neighboring Collingwood Children's Farm brings city-slicker kids face to face with all manner of farm animals from guinea pigs and goats to cows. If you're traveling with children, this is an excellent way to spend an afternoon unwinding in a relaxed green space. 

6. Promenade St Kilda’s vibrant foreshore

The beach is nothing to write home about, but the seaside suburb of St Kilda has a roguish charm, symbolized perhaps by the slightly menacing but strangely mesmerizing creepy clown face forming the entrance to Luna Park . You'll dodge rollerbladers and cyclists as you stroll along St Kilda Foreshore  but the vibes are impeccable on sunny days with busy outdoor cafes and beer gardens along the seafront. 

Grab a coffee and a photo at the end of St Kilda Pier , which offers a wonderful panoramic view of the Melbourne skyline. Better still, you might even catch a glimpse of one of St Kilda's most charming residents: the little penguins that nest between the rocks of the breakwater.

7. Go green at CERES Community Environment Park

Brunswick locals shop here for organic produce and browse the market, but CERES (pronounced "series") is also a public park and community environmental center. If you’re interested in sustainability there’s a bookstore, organic cafe, and permaculture nursery onsite. Educational tours cover green themes such as renewable energy, sustainable building design, urban farms and ecotourism.

For travelers with children, there are chickens to see, a small playground, and occasional kid-focused workshops. CERES is located next to Merri Creek, where the green space continues. Stroll north or south through bushland which has been replanted over the last few decades with Australian natives, but look out for cyclists.

8. Book in for Melbourne’s best dining experiences

Melbourne is known for its exceptional hospitality scene, shaped by immigrants from all over the world and enthusiastically embraced by a discerning populace. While there are memorable cheap eats to be had in suburbs far and wide, the city is also home to a handful of top-end restaurants that scoop awards on the global dining scene.

Top of the bunch is Attica in Ripponlea, a regular in the World's 50 Best Restaurants rankings. 

9. Go explore Melbourne’s western regions

Melbourne’s working docklands with their stacks of containers and giant bleeping cranes divide the city’s central business district from the eclectic western suburbs. A 12-minute train to Footscray, Seddon or Yarraville, or a 30-minute off-road cycle, will get you over to this secret pocket of urban life.

This once solidly working-class area has slowly gentrified over the last decade, but still has a strong migrant population bringing all the globe to the table from Italian to Vietnamese to Ethiopian restaurants.

Scienceworks (an interactive science museum) and pretty Williamstown Beach are both great detours for families, while travelers without kids will love the bohemian bars, independent shops and outdoor cafes across "the west". Settle in and soak up a distinctly off-the-tourist-map vibe here. 

10. Catch a cult classic at the Art Deco Astor cinema

One of Melbourne's best-loved landmarks screens double features as well as a mix of new releases, art-house and classics (David Lynch, Jane Campion, Orson Welles), and cult films ( Tron , Goodfellas, Rocky Horror to name a few examples). The whole Astor cinema experience, from the plush furnishing and art deco fixtures to the grand foyer staircase, transports you to a bygone era of enigmatic screen stars and cinema nights as a special event. 

11. Discover Melbourne’s history at the Melbourne Museum

Victoria's cultural, social and natural history are given their due at this highly interesting museum , occupying a striking modern building at the heart of Carlton Gardens. There's an excellent Indigenous section, a forest in the atrium, and the highly venerated remains of Australia's favorite racehorse, New Zealand-born Phar Lap.

The museum shares the gardens with the exquisite Royal Exhibition Building , built in 1880 for an international show and repurposed in 1901 as the venue for the sitting of Australia's first-ever parliament. 

12. Learn about the Anzacs at the Shrine of Remembrance 

Taking the form of an ancient Greek temple, this secular shrine is a prominent and fitting civic memorial to those who lost their lives during WWI. It's the focus for Anzac Day commemorations on April 25, while on Remembrance Day a shaft of light shining through an opening in the ceiling illuminates the word "love" at precisely the same time as the signing of the armistice (11am on the 11th of the 11th). The views from the top of the monument are outstanding, and there's a museum beneath.

13. Watch a game at "The G" – that's the Melbourne Cricket Ground

It's not the prettiest or the most architecturally interesting stadium, but the Melbourne Cricket Ground (the MCG, or just "The G") is sacred ground for many Melburnians, carrying within its bulky frame the treasured hope of Grand Final glory for their beloved local footy team.

If you can't make it to a cricket or an Australian Football League (AFL) game, entertaining guided tours are available, visiting many nooks you wouldn't otherwise have access to. Cap it off with a visit to the excellent Australian Sports Museum , which lies within.

14. Sample gourmet treats at Queen Victoria Market 

This historic market sells gourmet produce by the box-load. With over 600 traders, "Vic Market" (as it’s referred to locally) is the largest open-air market in Australia attracting thousands of shoppers a day. Browse fresh produce among the booming cries of fishmongers and fruit-and-veg vendors. The ornate deli hall features everything from soft cheeses and fresh dips, to organic wines, Polish sausage and kangaroo biltong. Pack a picnic and head to nearby Flagstaff Gardens for lunch.

On Wednesday evenings from mid-November to the end of February the Summer Night Market takes over after hours. It’s a lively social event featuring hawker-style food stalls, bars, and music and dance performances. There's also a Winter Night Market on Wednesday evenings in August.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated October 2023

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Melbourne   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Boy_Anupong | Getty Images

11 Best Things To Do in Melbourne

Updated April 14, 2021

Like any major city, Melbourne features a zoo and museums like the Melbourne Museum and the National Gallery of Victoria . You'll also find  the  Melbourne Cricket Ground , a must-see attraction for any sports fan.  Meanwhile, n ature lovers will

• All Things To Do

Shrine of Remembrance Shrine of Remembrance free

To commemorate the 19,000 Victorians killed during World War I, the city of Melbourne built the Shrine of Remembrance in 1924. The monument, which was inspired by famous Greek sights like the Parthenon and the Acropolis , features several memorials, including the bronze Gallipoli Memorial, The Forecourt (a World War II memorial that houses the Eternal Flame) and the Remembrance Garden (where fallen soldiers from post-World War II conflicts are honored). Several military-themed exhibits are also available inside the shrine.

According to many recent travelers, the Shrine of Remembrance is one of Melbourne's best attractions. Though a sobering experience, you'll walk away with a greater understanding and appreciation of Australia's participation in major conflicts. Past visitors recommended joining one of the free property tours, which are offered daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and last about an hour. And for incredible views of the grounds and the Melbourne skyline, check out the second-floor balcony.

Port Campbell National Park Port Campbell National Park free

One of Australia's most stunning natural wonders is the Twelve Apostles rock formation found in Port Campbell National Park. Seven stacked rock structures constitute the Twelve Apostles, six of which can be seen from the attraction's main viewing platform. Other landmarks situated in the park include The Arch, London Bridge and a grotto.

Whether you love the great outdoors or just want to snap some jaw-dropping photos, you should consider making the 144-mile trek to Port Campbell National Park. If you decide to drive here, take some time to travel along the Great Ocean Road, which offers terrific views of the park. Another way to see the site is by helicopter. And if you're lucky, you may spot wild koalas and kangaroos during your visit.

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne free

Founded in the mid-1800s, the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne encompass 94 acres of greenery. Some of the gardens' highlights include region-specific plant collections, the Rare and Threatened Species Collection, the Gardens House and the Perennial Border. There are also pathways, shaded benches and statues situated throughout the property.

Though you can wander through this attraction within a couple of hours, past visitors recommended taking your time to truly appreciate all of the plants housed here. It's a great spot to read or enjoy an afternoon picnic as well. If you're traveling with kids, check out the childrens garden, which offers a variety of hands-on activities.

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Yarra Valley Yarra Valley free

Though you'll find five wine regions near Melbourne, the area's most well-known is the Yarra Valley. More than 70 wineries are located in this region. Two of the Yarra Valley's most popular vineyards include Domaine Chandon , which specializes in sparkling wine, and Giant Steps , where you'll find several kinds of chardonnays and pinot noirs.

Several wine tours throughout the Yarra Valley are available. Tour operators recommended by past visitors include Wild Wombat Winery Tours , Yarra Valley Winery Tours and Yarra Valley Private Winery Tours . If you're traveling without a car, consider choosing a tour operator that offers pick-ups and drop-offs from the CBD.

State Library Victoria State Library Victoria free

The State Library Victoria is a must-see attraction for book worms, architecture lovers and history buffs. Built in 1856 on 2 acres of land in Melbourne's central business district, the library houses a variety of books and historic artifacts, including famed Australian outlaw Ned Kelly's suit of armor and a collection of rare children's books from the 19th century. The site's architecture is equally as impressive. Pay close attention to the library's exterior, which features neoclassical architectural details like stone columns and a symmetrical layout, as well as the octagonal La Trobe Reading Room.

One of the best ways to see the State Library Victoria is to participate in one of the property's free tours. Most recent travelers said all of the tours are informative. Some tours are offered once daily, while others are only available on select days, so consult the library's website and plan your visit accordingly. Tours last approximately one to two hours.

National Gallery of Victoria National Gallery of Victoria free

Opened in 1861, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is the oldest and most visited art gallery in Australia. Local artists are mostly featured, although there are works from international masters like Anthony van Dyck, Claude Monet and René Magritte. You'll also find unique exhibits like Ichwan Noor's "Beetle Sphere" – a Volkswagen Beetle that's been molded into a sphere – and Kohei Nawa's "PixCell-Red Deer" – a taxidermied deer covered in glass and crystal beads.

Though many of the museum's free collections are worth exploring, several recent travelers said paying extra for specialty exhibits is a must. Notable current and past temporary exhibits focus on iconic artists and art styles. The permanent Pacific Art collection, which displays indigenous artwork and artifacts from Pacific nations like Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and New Zealand, is another favorite.

The Block Arcade The Block Arcade free

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, an art lover, a fashionista or a foodie, you'll find something to enjoy at The Block Arcade. More than 25 boutiques, galleries and specialty food stores are housed within this stunning structure, which features skylights, cast-iron details, mosaic floors and stained glass windows. Noteworthy shops include Haigh's Chocolates, Hopetoun Tearooms and a Dr. Seuss-themed art gallery.

Past visitors appreciated The Block Arcade's relaxed yet grand atmosphere and delectable food offerings. If you're a photography buff, you'll want to bring your camera. And if you visit during the holidays, you'll see beautiful Christmas decorations.

City Circle Tram City Circle Tram free

The City Circle Tram is a must-do. For one, it gives you a nice overview of Melbourne's top tourist attractions . More importantly, it's free. Just look for a burgundy and cream tram and hop right on. When you want to get off, push a red button (near the handrails) or pull down on the cord above your head.

Trams can get crowded, especially during the peak tourist season. However, many recent travelers said the trams are extremely convenient and efficient. If you don't feel like standing on a crowded tram, consider waiting for the next one. They depart every 12 minutes from the Flinders Street Station.

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Melbourne Cricket Ground Melbourne Cricket Ground

The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is Melbourne's main stadium for cricket and the beloved Aussie rules-style of rugby (or footy). The National Sports Museum is also located here, and tours of the property are offered on select days.

The best way to see this sports arena is to come for a footy or cricket match. Recent visitors said all views, including those from the cheap seats, are superb. You'll find that food and refreshments served here are pricey but comparable to those offered at other Aussie stadiums.

Melbourne Museum Melbourne Museum

This is Melbourne's natural and cultural history museum, and there are all sorts of wonders to peer at, including several dinosaur skeletons and the preserved Phar Lap – Australia's late famous racehorse. Other must-see exhibits include a collection of Aboriginal artifacts and "Sam the Koala," an exhibit that focuses on the Black Saturday bushfires of 2009.

While some recent travelers enjoyed the museum, others noted that some exhibits lack information and did not justify their high admissions fees. Most agreed, though, that this attraction is great for kids.

Melbourne Zoo Melbourne Zoo

The Melbourne Zoo opened in 1862 and holds the distinction of being Australia's oldest zoo. The property is home to more than 300 animal species, most of which are free to roam in areas that mimic their own natural habitats. Aussie natives include kangaroos, wallabies, platypuses, koalas and wombats. And don't miss the Australian fur seals or the Australian little penguins: They're too cute to forget.

Past visitors said the Melbourne Zoo offers plenty for families to see and do. Plan on spending a half or full day here if you want to see the bulk of the zoo's animals. And if you have time, check out one of the "Meet the Keeper" talks, which give you a chance to see and learn more about animals like giraffes, elephants, seals and orangutans. Meet the Keeper talks are offered every 30 minutes between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Multicultural Melbourne frequently tops the list of the world's most livable cities. Visit this vibrant city at the head of Port Phillip Bay, and you'll see why it's such a popular destination. Australia's second-largest metropolis exudes an unmistakably European feel. Grand Victorian buildings recall the city's Gold Rush riches, and tree-lined promenades and a tangle of hidden laneways make exploring the city especially rewarding.

Culture is a big draw. Art lovers can get their fix at Melbourne's impressive museums and galleries. And foodies will also find plenty to love. Famous Aussie chefs flaunt their talents here, whipping up creative concoctions from around the world — you can feast on everything from Greek, Italian, and Indian cuisine to Spanish and Vietnamese.

But perhaps Melbourne's biggest claim to fame is sports. The famous Melbourne Cup horse race , held on the first Tuesday in November, brings the entire nation to a standstill. And Australian Rules football ("footy") elicits an almost religious reverence. If you're a sports lover, try to catch a game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground while you're here. Tennis fans flock to the Australian Open in early February, and Formula One followers eagerly anticipate the Australian Grand Prix.

You'll never run out of things to do in Melbourne. Explore the city's diverse galleries, cafés, and shops; stroll through lush gardens; cruise along the Yarra River; or hop aboard a heritage tram to discover Melbourne's magic.

Melbourne also boasts a busy arts calendar. Highlights include the Melbourne International Comedy Festival (March to April), and if you're looking for things to do in Melbourne in August, scoop up some tickets to the Melbourne International Film Festival. Seeking a little slice of nature? Rewarding day trip adventures lie a short drive from the city buzz.

Before you head out on your sightseeing tour, find the best places to visit in the city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Melbourne.

See also: Where to Stay in Melbourne

1. Relax at the Royal Botanic Gardens

2. find inspiration at the national gallery of victoria, 3. check out federation square, 4. wander through melbourne's arcades and laneways, 5. get a culture fix at southbank & south wharf, 6. catch a game at the melbourne cricket ground and visit the national sports museum, 7. enjoy the views from melbourne skydeck at eureka tower, 8. attend a performance at arts centre melbourne, 9. explore the melbourne museum and royal exhibition building, 10. take a city circle tram tour, 11. meet the animals at melbourne zoo, 12. captain cook's cottage, fitzroy gardens, 13. cruise the yarra river, 14. pay your respects at the shrine of remembrance, 15. soak up the scene at docklands, 16. shop at queen victoria market, 17. take a tour of parliament house, 18. delve into melbourne's past at the immigration museum, 19. state library victoria, where to stay in melbourne for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to melbourne, melbourne, australia - climate chart.

Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens are among the finest of their kind in the world. Established in 1846, the gardens encompass two locations: Melbourne and Cranbourne.

The Melbourne gardens lie in the heart of green parkland extending south of the Yarra River , about two kilometers from the CBD. Covering an area of 38 hectares, they are home to more than 10,000 plant species from around the globe, including many rare specimens.

Highlights include the Ian Potter Foundation Children's Garden , designed to encourage the next generation of gardeners, and the Fern Gully Health and Wellbeing Garden , a tranquil spot to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Aboriginal Heritage Walk explores the rich heritage of Indigenous Australians.

In summer, live theater is a highlight of the gardens, and a moonlight cinema is set up under the stars. Rolling lawns, lakes, large trees, and abundant birdlife make this a beautiful spot to linger and enjoy a picnic or a traditional high tea at The Terrace café.

Special events add something new to every visit. Check the calendar for seasonal programs like guided birding walks; Forest Therapy walks; ClimateWatch walks; and Lightscape, when the gardens are illuminated after dark.

No matter what time of year you visit these beautiful gardens, this is one of the best free things to do in Melbourne. Note, though, that admission is charged for some special events.

If you're short on time or mobility is an issue, hop aboard the Explorer - Melbourne Gardens . This open-sided minibus will take you on a 30-minute tour of all the garden's highlights.

Address: Birdwood Ave, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria

Melbourne is famous for its culture, and the National Gallery of Victoria is the jewel in the crown. It's not only the oldest public art gallery in Australia , it's also the most visited. Here, you can admire more than 70,000 works of European, Asian, Oceanic, and American art in two city locations.

The international collection is housed in the St. Kilda Road building , originally opened in 1968. The building is renowned for The Great Hall, where visitors are encouraged to lie on the floor and gaze at the colorful stained-glass ceiling.

The extensive Australian collection is held in the Ian Potter Gallery in Federation Square , featuring the history of Australian art, from Aboriginal works through to the Heidelberg School and contemporary mixed media. One of the highlights is the large triptych format, The Pioneer by Frederick McCubbin.

There's always something new to see at the National Gallery of Victoria. It presents more than 40 exhibitions a year, as well as special events, children's programs, tours, and performances. Best of all, entry to the permanent exhibitions is free .

NGV International

Address: St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria

The Ian Potter Centre

• Federation Square, Flinders Street &, Russell Street, Melbourne Victoria

When Federation Square opened in 2002 to commemorate 100 years of federation, it divided Melburnians. There were those who loved it and those who hated it. Either way, "Fed Square" has become an integral part of the city, a popular meeting place, and a great spot for tourists to start their sightseeing.

You can't miss Fed Square. It's located opposite Flinders Street Station, a major public transport hub. The building's ultra-modern design of open and closed spaces stands in striking contrast to the surrounding Victorian architecture.

Live entertainment lures locals and tourists here. With more than 2,000 events annually, you can always find a performance or festival to enjoy in the central outdoor performance space and intimate indoor venues.

And you'll find plenty of cafés and restaurants here, too. Chocolate Buddha is a favorite serving casual Japanese cuisine with beautiful views of the city.

Museums and galleries are other highlights of visiting Federation Square. The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia is dedicated to Australian art. The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) hosts fascinating interactive exhibits on screen culture (film, TV, videos, and art); and the Koorie Heritage Trust , displays art, photographs, and artifacts from the Koorie Aboriginal people, who hail from parts of Victoria and New South Wales. Best of all, entry to these museums is free .

Fed Square is also one of the largest free Wi-Fi sites in Australia .

Address: Corner of Swanston and Flinders Streets, Melbourne, Victoria

Wandering the labyrinth of lanes and alleyways is one of the most popular things to do in Melbourne. Head to the area around Flinders , Collins, and Bourke Streets to see elegant, interesting, and quirky Melbourne at its best.

For high-end shopping, one of the most popular places to visit in Melbourne is the magnificent Block Arcade on Collins Street . With its mosaic floor, period details, and boutique shops, this is the place where late 19th-century gentry promenaded, coining the phrase, "doing the block."

You'll find everything here from Haigh's Chocolates and vintage jewelry to designer fashion, gifts, and cafés. It's also worth lining up for a morning or afternoon tea at the Hopetoun Tearooms . This Melbourne icon dates back to 1892 and is the only original shop still in the arcade today.

Cozy cafés beckon from the tangle of backstreets. Save time to order a coffee, pull up a chair, and people-watch for a while — it's a favorite Melbourne pastime.

The opulent Royal Arcade is Melbourne's oldest arcade, and Flinders and Degraves Lanes are also well worth exploring.

Southbank is the place to go for a dose of culture. Located on the banks of the Yarra River , a short stroll from Flinders Street Station, this scenic precinct is packed with shops, cafés, and cultural attractions. It's a wonderful place for a stroll along the river at any time of year.

Looking for things to do in Melbourne at night? You'll find some of the city's best nightlife here — especially in the South Wharf area, where heritage sheds are converted into lively entertainment venues. It's an evocative space after dark, when the city lights ignite and reflect off the river.

Southbank also hosts enticing alfresco cafés, restaurants, and live entertainment, and the many festivals held here throughout the year amp up the vibe.

If shopping is high on your list of things to do, you'll find an excellent arts and crafts market here every Sunday. Plus you can splurge at chic designer boutiques or grab a bargain at DFO South Wharf, factory outlet stores.

If you feel like catching a show, the Malthouse Theatre presents everything from musical theater, dance, drama, and comedy to contemporary opera and cabaret. Or catch a performance by the Melbourne Theatre Company at Southbank Theatre. Southbank is also home to Arts Centre Melbourne , the city's major performance venue.

While you're here, keep a lookout for the public art, like The Travellers steel sculptures along Sandridge Bridge and the Queen Bee gracing the side of the landmark Eureka Tower .

Looking for things to do in Southbank with kids? Climb aboard Polly Woodside in South Wharf, one of the country's last surviving 19th-century tall ships.

Melbourne is the sporting capital of Australia, so it's no surprise that a sports stadium numbers among the city's top tourist attractions. With a capacity of 100,000 and a history dating back to 1853, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is considered one of the world's greatest stadiums. It's also the largest and oldest sports venue in Australia.

As the main stadium for the 1956 Olympic Games and 2006 Commonwealth Games, the birthplace of Test Cricket, and the home of Australian Rules Football , "the 'G" is woven into the fabric of Melbourne.

Daily tours take visitors for a trip down a memory lane of great moments in sporting history and incorporate the Australian Sports Museum , including the Australian Gallery of Sport and Olympic Museum . You can also catch a game of cricket in summer, or football during winter.

Directly opposite the MCG is Melbourne Park , home of the Australian Open tennis tournament, held every January. You can hire a tennis court, and many concerts are held here during the year.

Address: Brunton Ave, East Melbourne, Victoria

Wondering where to find a great view over the city? Head to the 91-story Eureka Tower in the heart of Southbank. This striking skyscraper was named in recognition of The Eureka Stockade, the 1854 rebellion of prospectors in the Victorian goldfields. Adding to the Gold Rush theme, the building's gold crown and gold-plated windows literally sparkle when the sun catches the top of the building.

Melbourne Skydeck , on the 88th floor, affords the highest public view in any building in the Southern Hemisphere . For even more thrills, head out onto The Edge , a glass cube that slides out three meters from the building for vertigo-free visitors. You can also buy tickets to Voyager Theatre, a Virtual Reality experience that takes you on an immersive, multisensory journey to 16 famous Melbourne attractions.

Author's Tip : Arrive at sunset to see spectacular views over the city during the day and night, when the lights twinkle as the sun slips slowly beneath the horizon.

Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank, Melbourne, Victoria

Arts Centre Melbourne is the city's leading arts and culture venue. Easily recognizable by its spire, it sits on the banks of the Yarra River, near South Bank, and is a wonderful place to attend a performance of theater, dance, music, comedy, and more.

Arts Centre Melbourne incorporates a range of state-of-the-art theaters and spaces. These include the State Theatre , home to The Australian Ballet and Opera Australia; the 884-seat Playhouse ; the more intimate Fairfax Studio ; and Hamer Hall, the premier performance space for the revered Melbourne Symphony Orchestra . A short stroll away, you can attend an outdoor concert at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in the Kings Domain Gardens.

Planning a pre-show dinner? Café Vic serves up seasonal contemporary cuisine, as well as snacks throughout the day.

While you're here, stop by the Australian Music Vault . The free exhibition here tells the story of Australian contemporary music.

A short tram ride from the CBD, the Melbourne Museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. This modern purpose-built museum houses a diverse collection depicting society and cultures, as well as science and the environment.

Highlights include Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre ; the Phar Lap exhibit, about Australia's greatest racehorse; and the Children's Gallery , a series of hands-on activities designed to stimulate and engage youngsters. You can also stroll through a vibrant forest, and immerse yourself in a world of life-size dinosaurs.

Adjacent to the Melbourne Museum is the elaborate Royal Exhibition Building. Built in 1880 to host Melbourne's International Exhibition, the building also held the first Commonwealth Parliament of Australia in 1901. Regular tours are available, and the building is still used for exhibitions and special events.

Address: 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton, Victoria

Want to do some city sightseeing the Melbourne way? Hop aboard the City Circle Tram . Melbourne is famous for its trams, and the City Circle Tram is a free and easy way of seeing the top sights in the CBD and Docklands.

Accompanied by a commentary, the hop-on, hop-off heritage tram passes many of the grand historic buildings, including Parliament House , the Old Treasury Building, Princess Theatre, and the Windsor Hotel . Plus you can hop off at major attractions like Federation Square. The trams run every 12 minutes and take about 50 minutes to complete the entire loop.

You can board the tram at any stop along the City Circle route, seven days a week, except Christmas Day and Good Friday.

From big cats to butterflies, animal lovers will have plenty to enjoy at the 22-hectare Melbourne Zoo . Although the zoo dates back to 1862, the 250-plus species of animals have the best of modern facilities in state-of-the-art enclosures, about five minutes from the Melbourne CBD.

You'll find animals from all over the planet here. The award-winning Trail of the Elephants is an insight into the lives of the resident Asian elephants in a traditional village-garden setting. Another highlight is the Orang-utan Sanctuary , where the animals live in their treetop home. And you can wander down a bush track to meet your favorite Aussie animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and emus.

With many wild encounters, including "roar and snore," twilight music concerts, and behind-the-scenes tours of some enclosures, Melbourne Zoo offers animal lovers a fun-packed experience.

Zoos Victoria operates two other zoos: Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo , and all run important conservation programs, including breeding and recovery work for endangered species.

Address: Elliott Ave, Parkville, Victoria

Captain Cook's Cottage was brought to Melbourne from Captain James Cook's native home in Yorkshire, England and erected in Fitzroy Gardens . The quaint cottage is an insight into the life and times of Cook's seafaring adventures and exploration of Australia and other parts of the world.

Also in the beautiful Fitzroy Gardens is the magnificent Spanish-mission style conservatory , which is always filled with a vibrant floral display. Children will love the tiny Tudor village and Fairy Tree .

After strolling around the gardens, head to hipster-packed Fitzroy for some of Melbourne's best vegan food, as well as vintage shopping and vibrant street art.

Address: Wellington Parade, East Melbourne, Victoria

A riverboat cruise is not only a relaxing way to see the sights, it's also an insight into the history of the Yarra River . Many cruise companies can be found along Southbank, and it's a fun way to get your bearings before you set out to explore the city on foot.

While you're gliding down the river, keep an eye out for Birrarung Marr, originally called "Birrarung," meaning "river of mists and shadows," a waterfront parkland celebrating Aboriginal ties with the Yarra River.

If you're short on time, the one-hour River Gardens Melbourne Sightseeing Cruise gives you a relaxing tour past top city sights, like the Royal Botanic Gardens , Melbourne Cricket Ground , and National Tennis Centre .

Sitting majestically in Kings Domain gardens, the Shrine of Remembrance was built after the First World War to commemorate Victorians involved in the Great War, either abroad or at home. Today, it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women. It's also the central focus for ceremonies on ANZAC Day, held on 25 April, and Remembrance Day, held on 11 November each year.

In the Galleries of Remembrance under the shrine you can explore photographs, artifacts, and artwork related to Australians at war and peacekeeping operations.

Guided or self-guided tours are available daily, and the lighting on the building is particularly beautiful at night. From the balcony, you can enjoy beautiful views over the 13 hectares of surrounding parkland and the city beyond.

If you happen to be visiting Melbourne on a Sunday, you can attend a Last Post Service here at 4:45pm with bugle calls and a wreath-laying at the Eternal Flame.

Address: Birdwood Ave, Melbourne, Victoria

Docklands is Melbourne's newest waterfront entertainment precinct. With the highest concentration of green-star-rated buildings in the Southern Hemisphere, the satellite village is filled with cafés, restaurants, tourist attractions, and parklands. It's one of the most popular Melbourne attractions at night.

You'll find something here for everyone. Snap some pics at ArtVo , an interactive 3D art gallery; take the Docklands Public Art Walk; or soak up some street art scenes at Blender Studios .

Docklands is also home to Marvel Stadium and the O'Brien Icehouse , a world-class ice sports venue.

Craving some retail therapy? An art and vintage market is also held along the waterfront every Sunday, and you can shop 'til you drop at the open-air shopping mall. Dining is also a highlight. You can feast around the world on everything from Turkish and Vietnamese cuisine to contemporary Australian creations.

Address: Harbour Esplanade, Docklands, Victoria

A popular place with locals and tourists, Queen Victoria Market has been at the center of fresh produce shopping since 1878. Farm-fresh goodies are a highlight here, but the market stalls sell everything from clothing, art, and toys to that hard-to-find unique souvenir, five days a week.

Are you a foodie? You can sign up for a two-hour guided walking tour with tastings of some of the market's best treats.

Special events such as winter night markets, music concerts, and other functions are often held throughout the year.

Address: Queen and Victoria Streets, Melbourne, Victoria

Parliament House is one of Melbourne's best-kept tourist secrets. This is where Australia's first federal parliament met from 1901 through 1927, and the building's grand colonnaded exterior makes a striking landmark on Spring Street.

One of Australia's oldest public buildings, Parliament House was built during the Gold Rush, and its interior is lavishly decorated with gold leaf, chandeliers, and a superb mosaic floor .

Today, you can watch the proceedings of the two Houses in the public galleries on days when parliament is sitting. Free, informative tours are held Monday to Friday on days when parliament is not in session.

Insider's tip: Another fun way to experience this grand building is to book High Tea or a farm-to-fork lunch at Strangers Corridor, the elegant wood-paneled restaurant.

Address: Spring Street, East Melbourne, Victoria

Want to learn about the interesting people who call Melbourne home? The Immigration Museum tells real stories of people who relocated here from all over the world. Every person arriving in Melbourne had to pass through customs here, and their poignant stories help explain the city's diversity today.

The museum is located in the elegant Old Customs House , and its permanent collection is interactive and engaging. Special exhibitions add to the museum's appeal.

A visit here provides a different perspective of early European settlement and its impact on Indigenous communities. If you're looking for things to do in Melbourne on a rainy day, this is a great option.

Address: 400 Flinders Street, Melbourne, Victoria

State Library Victoria is another worthy addition to your list of free things to do in Melbourne. As soon as you approach the building, you'll be impressed by its grand heritage architecture. First opened in 1856 , the building sports an elegant sandstone facade fronted with a series of grand Corinthian columns. Step inside for more surprises.

The Ian Potter Queen's Hall is a serene, light-filled space lined with white Corinthian columns. Chandeliers and filigreed original skylights add to the grandeur here, and the space hosts one of the world's largest chess collections . During the day, students huddle here buried deep in books. At night, it transforms into a magical event space.

If you're an art and history lover, you'll enjoy browsing the multiple galleries. The free exhibitions here range from Melbourne artists to historic artifacts, like Ned Kelly's armor, and photography collections.

Undoubtedly, though, the highlight is the La Trobe Reading Room . A soaring domed ceiling crowns this magnificent octagonal space, which was inspired by the British Museum in London and the Library of Congress in Washington. Four gallery levels rise above the vast space, and light floods in through the roof's many skylights. It's one of the most photographed sites in the library. Head to the upper galleries for the best shot.

Kids, too, will find things to love here. A two-story children's castle, reading nooks, and, of course, plenty of books await at The Pauline Gandel Children's Quarter.

The best way to explore the library is on a free self-guided digital tour . Alternatively, you can join one of the many free guided tours led by passionate volunteers. After exploring the rich history here, you can refuel with cake and coffee at one of the two on-site cafés.

Address: 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne Victoria

For first-time visitors to Melbourne, one of the best places to stay is either the city center or Southbank, with its restaurants, cafés, and lively events calendar. These tourist-friendly areas are close to prime attractions such as Federation Square; the Royal Botanic Gardens; and the labyrinth of laneways and shopping arcades around Flinders, Collins, and Bourke Streets. Here are some highly rated hotels in these areas:

Luxury Hotels:

• Steps away from St. Patrick's Cathedral and Fitzroy Gardens, the plush Park Hyatt is one of Melbourne's best hotels. Shops and restaurants lie a short stroll away, and sports fans can walk to the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Melbourne Park.
• Exuding elegance and old-world charm, The Langham, Melbourne is a romantic choice in Southbank overlooking the Yarra River. In your spare time, you can swim in the indoor pool topped by a glass roof, dine in the excellent on-site restaurant, and walk to popular shopping and entertainment venues.
• Also in Southbank, the serviced apartments of Quay West Suites are a favorite with families.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A couple of blocks from the famous Queen Victoria Market, the Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens has a tram stop on its doorstep and offers great value within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
• Also steps away from a free tram and a five-minute walk from outlet shopping, Alto Hotel on Bourke is Australia's first carbon-neutral hotel. Its modern apartments are a great choice for families.
• A five-minute walk from Federation Square, the boutique Adelphi Hotel surprises guests with its contemporary style and personal touches.

Budget Hotels:

• Near Melbourne Park, the family-run City Centre Budget Hotel offers excellent value, with a rooftop kitchen and plenty of public transport options on its doorstep.
• Within walking distance of Flinders Street Station, the Ibis Budget Melbourne CBD has basic rooms but a fantastic location.
• Also in the budget price range, Essence Hotel Carlton lies two tram stops away from the CBD and only a five-minute walk from the Melbourne Museum, IMAX Theatre, and the Free Tram Zone. The rooms are tiny but clean, and the beds are comfy.
• Neighbours Sightseeing Tour: Fans of the long-running Neighbours TV soap opera can take a "Neighbours" Tour of Ramsay Street to see filming locations and the original Ramsay Street houses. You also have the opportunity to meet one of the cast members.
• Great Ocean Road Day Trip: The most popular excursion from Melbourne is to the Great Ocean Road and the site of the famous limestone stacks known as the Twelve Apostles. The Great Ocean Road Small-Group Eco Tour from Melbourne is an easy and fun excursion. This tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, morning tea, lunch, transport in a 24-passenger vehicle, and park admission fees for stops at Great Otway National Park for wildlife viewing and Port Campbell National Park to see the Twelve Apostles. You can also upgrade this tour to include a scenic helicopter flight.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Day Trip Adventures : Need a nature fix? You'll find plenty of inspiring places to visit near Melbourne by car. Day trip destinations include the beautiful Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges and the golden beaches of the Mornington Peninsula . In less than a two-hour drive from Melbourne, you can also delve into the rich Gold Rush history of Ballarat, Bendigo, and the Macedon Ranges , and on the western side of Port Phillip Bay, Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are the gateway to the Great Ocean Road .

Outdoor Adventures : If you're after some fresh air fun, check out these other places to visit in regional Victoria. Skiers will find some of Australia's top ski resorts within a day's drive of Melbourne, as well as fantastic fishing and some of the country's best hikes . If you need help planning your trip, see our article on Australia's top itineraries .

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Melbourne

39 BEST Places to Visit in Melbourne (2024)

Melbourne is a multicultural haven, full of foods and cultures that can’t be found in the same concentrations in any other city in Australia. And that’s part of what makes the city such an exciting place to visit, because you will be able to eat, shop, and experience things that come from all over the world. This is a city that you visit because you want to experience that diversity in a very Australian way!

However, Melbourne isn’t all great food, it’s also gained a reputation lately as one of the most dangerous cities in Australia. A lot of this is media hype, but there are places in Melbourne that should be avoided if you want to have a safe and happy visit to the city. This isn’t hard to do, especially with our ultimate list of the best places to visit while you’re Down Under in Melbourne!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Melbourne:

These are the best places to visit in melbourne, faq on the best places to visit in melbourne, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in melbourne.

The CBD is the centre of Melbourne. It’s the neighbourhood at the heart of the action and is home to Melbourne’s most renowned sights and quality places to stay, which is why the CBD is the best area in Melbourne for sightseeing and exploring.

• Admire the architecture of the iconic Flinders Street Station.
• See your favourite fish and aquatic animals at SEA LIFE Aquarium Melbourne.
• Step back in time at the Old Melbourne Gaol.

Backpacking Melbourne is simply a must. The city has so much to offer for every traveller that you could spend weeks just exploring the different neighborhoods. Since not all backpackers can stay for this long, we’ve created an epic Melbourne itinerary . It might just be a guideline but at least you can be sure to fit in all of the important hotspots.

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#1 – National Gallery of Victoria

• Perfect for art lovers.
• Includes some world-class displays and paintings by the greatest masters from the past.

Why it’s so awesome : This gallery is actually made up of two different venues, the NGV International and the NGV Australia, both of them containing world-class art. There are also a number of exhibits by Aboriginal artists, which means that you can check out this part of Australia’s past and present.

What to do there: Make sure you don’t miss the Rembrandt, Tiepolo, and Bonnard that makeup part of this gallery’s permanent collection. The entrance also boasts a water wall that’s a great place to take photographs to remember your day by!

#2 – The ACMI – Cool place to see in Melbourne with friends!

• See Australia’s largest moving image collection.
• The venue also hosts some of the best exhibitions and shows in the country!

Why it’s so awesome : If you love the movies, then you need to check out what’s on at the ACMI while you’re in the city. This venue has hosted favorites like David Bowie Is and the DreamWorks Animation: The Exhibition . Basically, if it has to do with the cinema and the biggest and best exhibitions in Melbourne, then it’s probably going to be held at this venue.

What to do there: Before you arrive in Melbourne, check out what shows they have on at the ACMI. And don’t think for a minute that this venue only shows movies. In fact, it’s held Melbourne’s most popular talks, events, and blockbuster exhibitions over the last decade. And if you enjoy the show, make sure you check out the shop on the way out for some great souvenirs.

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#3 – The Great Ocean Road

• An absolutely amazing place to get pictures –  bring your camera.
• You’ll see some of the best scenery in the state from this road.
• Make sure you get a glimpse of the famous Twelve Apostles!

Why it’s so awesome : This drive is a little way out of Melbourne on the Great Ocean Road, but it’s an absolute must-see while you’re in the city. This drive is one of the best in the country, with stunning ocean vistas running alongside the road for miles. There are several great beaches where you can stop off along the way and you’ll get the chance to see the Twelve Apostles. These are imposing rock formations that rear up out of the ocean like sentries.

What to do there : You can take a load off and book a Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour where you’ll beat the crowds, yet still be with a bunch of like-minded travellers. Or, you can hire a car and take the drive up on your own if you’re confident enough. Make sure you stop along the way, there are a lot of different lookout points where you can take pictures, so take advantage of them. Remember to stay safe while taking selfies though, by not leaning too far over that lookout point railing (that water is freezing). If you prefer, you can join an ecotour . And look out for koalas, it’s not uncommon to see them by the side of the road or trying to cross!

#4 – The Queen Victoria Market – A great place in Melbourne if you love to shop!

• If you’re looking for a bargain, this is where you’ll find it.
• A great place to bargain hunt.
• And if you’re sick of eating in restaurants, buy some fresh produce and make your own!

Why it’s so awesome : This is an open-air market that’s filled with people who are passionate about their products and want to share them with everyone. It’s where the locals go for fresh vegetables, meat and small goods, but it’s also become popular amongst tourists for its relaxed vibe and great food. You’ll find everything at this market from food to clothes and toys, so wander the aisles and see what you can discover.

What to do there: The market is closed Mondays and Wednesdays so make sure you pick the right day to go. And while you’re there, wander the stalls looking for a bargain or for a unique souvenir to take home with you. When you’re done, check out some of the food options in the area. There’s a doughnut van called the American Doughnut Kitchen that makes juicy, gooey concoctions that are to die for!

#5 – Eureka Skydeck

• Not the tallest building in the world but with a unique twist that will scare you to pieces!
• You’ll get some amazing pictures from this spot as well as a view of the whole city.

Why it’s so awesome : Australia doesn’t have enormous skyscrapers like other countries so they can’t compete when it comes to tall observation decks. Instead, they choose to compete in another way. The Eureka Skydeck is hair-raising, in the best sense of the word. The Edge extends three meters from the 88th floor of the Tower and is designed to creak when you walk on it. So basically, you’re walking on glass that sounds like it’s going to break under your feet.

What to do there : This Skydeck is only for people with strong stomachs and nerves of steel, but once you’re up there the view is worth the fright. You can even  book in advance  to get exclusive offers and the chance to upgrade to the Edge Experience (which involves a glass cube 300m above ground with you inside it). It’s the best view of Melbourne you’ll get in the city, and you should try going up there at night if you want to see the city’s lights against the dark. We understand if heights aren’t your thing though and you’d prefer to  stay in an Airbnb  with great views instead.

#6 – The Astor Theater

• For lovers of old movies.
• A unique Art Deco building that turns heads!

Why it’s so awesome : The Astor Cinema has been in operation since 1936 and is the last cinema with a single screen in Melbourne. The building is Art Deco and the insides hark back to the old days of theater, with golden curtains and a distinctly old-world feel to everything. The movies on offer match that impression. The theater shows a mix of classic and new films as well as film festivals, independent films and double features for the really hardcore movie fans.

What to do there : This theater has a lot of special events and the sumptuous surroundings make a movie feel that much more amazing. You can get a cheap ticket on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, so check out what’s showing, take your friends with you, and enjoy a 1930s cinema experience!

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#7 – The Royal Botanic Gardens – A nice quiet place to see in Melbourne

• A serene space with lots of green areas and places to sit in the grass.
• You can take a tour through the garden or just go for a walk on your own and see what you can find.

Why it’s so awesome : Everyone needs a break from the city sometimes and the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne will give you the rest you need. These gardens contain more than 8,500 species of plants, lush lawns and pristine water features, which all make it the best place in the city to sit down and revitalize.

#8 – Brunswick Street – One of the more unique places to visit in Melbourne!

• The best place in the city to find retro clothes!
• A slightly quirky area that’s a remedy for the modern city.

Why it’s so awesome : Melbourne is a busy modern city, but it still has its alternative side and the center of that is Brunswick Street. This is where you’ll find shops, people, cafes and restaurants that are all a bit different. The vibe is determinedly bohemian, and you’ll find everything from great second-hand bookstores to the best vintage clothes shops.

What to do there : Make sure that you check out the vintage clothes shops. Melbourne is famous for them and there are several of them in this area. Try Vintage Sole , Yesteryear Vintage Clothing and Hunter Gatherer just to name a few. And other than that, just wander and see what you can find. This is a great place for people watching too as the vibe is relaxed and cool and attracts that kind of crowd too.

#9 – The Curtin House

• All of Melbourne on six floors.
• Some of the best shopping and restaurants in the city all in one place!

Why it’s so awesome : Spending time at the Curtain House is like seeing all of Melbourne in one shot. This house has six floors of interesting, amazing and weird shops that have become famous for their variety. The only reason you’ll need to hide your money while traveling in Melbourne is here because of the risk that you’ll spend all of it in one go. You’ll find a specialist bookshop, hairdressers, restaurants and the best bars in the city all packed in together.

What to do there : Explore of course! Have a haircut, look for books and clothes and make sure you check out the bar and band room at the famous Toff in Town. When you’re tired, you can get a meal and spend the rest of the night at the Rooftop Bar, overlooking the city. In fact, if you don’t have much time in Melbourne, you can get a pretty good snapshot of the whole city just by spending a day in this building.

#10 – Chinatown

• An area established in the 1850s that’s now the longest continuous Chinese settlement in the western world.
• The oldest Chinatown in the southern hemisphere.
• So many amazing restaurants you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Why it’s so awesome : This Chinatown district has been in Melbourne for over 160 years and it shows no signs of slowing down. It’s packed full of restaurants, shops and sights, the likes of which you’ll rarely see outside of China, and is a fascinating and busy place to spend an afternoon and evening.

What to do there : Make sure you explore the shops, karaoke bars and duty-free stores, but mostly you should go to Chinatown to eat. There are so many amazing restaurants in this area that you’ll probably have trouble picking one, so don’t even try! Instead, go from one to the other and eat snacks, mains and desserts at different places.

#11 – Old Melbourne Goal – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Melbourne

• A creepy and sometimes grisly look at the past.
• You can see the armor left behind by famous Australian outlaw Ned Kelly, with blood still attached!

Why it’s so awesome : Australia was once a giant open prison and so a visit to a small prison should be way high on your Australia itinerary. You may have your complaints about the modern criminal justice system but one look at the past will probably change that. This place is a haunting reminder of just how bad things got in the past and it will definitely make you grateful for the modern day. The goal opened in 1845 and is one of the oldest buildings in Melbourne. 133 people were hung in this building, so there are a lot of ghost stories about it.

What to do there : There’s lots to see and do in this goal. You can wander around the creepy, historical building on your own, experience a modern-day arrest procedure, and stand in the dock of the Court. And if you’re interested in exploring the more ghostly side of the goal, there are regular one-hour tours where you’ll learn all the grisly details. Also, make sure you have a look at the armor and death mask of famous Australian outlaw Ned Kelly. He’s an icon and almost a role model to the locals, so his blood-soaked armor holds pride of place.

#12 – St. Kilda – A great place in Melbourne if you love to shop!

• You might not think of Melbourne in connection with beaches, but it has St. Kilda!
• If you like cake, you’ll love this area.
• A great place for people who love to shop.

Why it’s so awesome : There are two main strips in St. Kilda that you need to see. The first is Fitzroy Street, with high-end designer stores and restaurants. And the other is Acland Street, which is where cake lovers come to put their blood sugar through the roof. This street has been famous for its cakes since 1934 and there are several cake shops along with it that you absolutely must experience!

What to do there : Go with an empty stomach and eat some cake! Better yet, stay in a hostel in St. Kilda so you can eat cake for breakfast! You’ll find everything from Cheesecake to vanilla slices and chocolate creations that will test your willpower and the strength of your trouser waistline! And afterwards, go down to the beach and work it off paddle boarding , or just sit in the sand and digest.

#13 – The Melbourne Museum

• The perfect place to learn more about Australia’s history.
• It’s a huge space, so it’s best seen in small bites.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum is enormous and filled with displays, cinemas, postmodern art and interactive areas. It’s a great place for the whole family too as there are permanent galleries just for children as well as a wealth of interesting displays where they can interact with the exhibits and learn through play. For adults who are interested in Australian history, there are displays about some interesting and slightly unusual facets of it.

What to do there : This museum is huge so it’s usually best if you make the choice to see only a few displays. The display dedicated to Phar Lap, Australia’s most famous racing horse, is a must-see as long as you’re not squeamish. The horse’s body is preserved and on display, so maybe don’t let the kids see it. There’s also a slightly disturbing display about the history of mental health treatment in Australia. It’ll make you very grateful that you were born in modern times.

#14 – The Cherry Bar

• Australia’s best live music scene.
• You’ll probably see some up and coming bands at this venue!

Why it’s so awesome : Melbourne is the center of the live music scene in Australia and this bar is the reason why. Over the years, it’s booked some of Australia’s best up-and-coming talent as well as the country’s biggest bands and singers.

What to do there : Just enjoy the scene. This small bar is famous for the quality of the acts it books and yet it hasn’t changed in over a decade. It’s still a little, rough and ready bar with graffiti on the walls. And that roughness is all part of the bar’s charm.

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#15 – Yarra Valley – A must-see for foodies!

• The best food in the city just outside the city.
• A stunning natural area with amazing, rolling landscape.
• If you like wine, you absolutely must try the options in the Yarra Valley.

Why it’s so awesome : Melbourne is a huge sprawling city where we recommend first-time visitors stay in the CBD . You wouldn’t think that there could be a green, lush area so close to it until you reach the Yarra Valley. Less than an hour from the CBD, this is the state’s best food and wine destination and you’ll find wineries, cellars and gourmet dining establishments everywhere.

What to do there : If you like wine, you’ll be in heaven. Take a winery tour around to the best wineries in the region and then put some food in your stomach to soak up all that alcohol at one of the many amazing restaurants set amongst the rolling green hills. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, visit the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery for the best sweet snacks in the region. Join a gourmet tour to really get the full experience.

Wonder how to spend a weekend in Melbourne? Head over to our   insider’s Weekend in Melbourne guide!

#16 – Lygon Street

• The little Italy of Melbourne!
• If you enjoy Italian food, you’ll find amazing bars, eateries and pizzeria in this area.

Why it’s so awesome : Melbourne is an intensely multicultural city and nowhere is this more clear than in Little Italy on Lygon Street. This area contains some of the best restaurants and eateries in the city as well as dessert shops, books stores and independent theaters.

What to do there : Eat your way across Italy. The bars and restaurants in this area are top-notch and you can go from one to the other enjoying a variety of courses. When you’re ready to walk around and work off all the food, check out the Readings Bookstore and the independent theater La Mama. You’re bound to find something to do!

Pssst! Haven’t packed yet? Check out our ultimate  Australia Packing List  to know what to bring with you on your Australian adventure!

#17 – Abbotsford Convent

• There’s a lot of history in this place, and you can feel it the moment you walk in.
• Today, it’s a bustling center for artists and other creatives.
• It’s surrounded by amazing gardens.

Why it’s so awesome : This site was a convent in the 1800s, then an orphanage and an aged care facility. And the weight of that past can be felt the moment you step onto the grounds and look up at the gothic spires. Now, it’s a creative hub, with amazing art inside and stunning surroundings. So if you’re looking for a bit of history and a relaxed, natural area, this is the place to visit.

What to do there : Australia doesn’t have a lot of history, its western history is only a few hundred years long after all, but what it does have is fascinating. Explore this site and the history it represents but enjoy the present as well. The artwork in the galleries and the gardens are amazing and are well worth seeing. And when you’re hungry, try the restaurant on site. It’s a vegetarian restaurant where you pay what you think the meal is worth.

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#18 – Federation Square

• There’s always something going on in this area, just find out what’s on and be part of it.
• This area contains interesting and divisive architecture.

Why it’s so awesome : This community hub has a geometric design that has caused a lot of argument over the years and yet it’s still the center of the city. There’s always something going on in this area including events, talks, performances, markets and activities. So no matter what you enjoy, chances are that you’ll find an event in this area that you’ll love!

What to do there: Before you arrive in the city, check out what’s on in Federation Square and make sure you attend the events that you’re interested in. But if that’s too much effort, just show up when you have a free afternoon! There’s sure to be something going on there that’ll interest you.

#19 – The MCG

• The incredibly violent football that Australians call AFL!
• There’s nothing like the comradery that comes from being in the crowd during an Australian football game.
• Fun for all ages.

Why it’s so awesome : Australians love their sport and AFL in particular and yet this game is nearly incomprehensible to outsiders. That doesn’t matter though, because the best part of the game is the sense of comradery. At sports events in Australia, there’s no anger or aggression against opposing teams. Instead, there is a general sense of community and togetherness that’s hard to beat.

What to do there : If you’re there in the right season, you can watch a game with a meat pie in one hand and a beer in the other. But even if you’re in Melbourne during the off-season, there are lots of sports played in the MCG including cricket. And make sure you check out the National Sports Museum while you’re there for a snapshot of Australia’s obsession with everything sports-related.

#20 – Phillip Island – A very cool place in Melbourne to go for a day

• A place for animal lovers.
• Remember that the penguins are wild animals so don’t try to touch or feed them.
• You’ll take some of the cutest pictures ever on this island.

Why it’s so awesome : Phillip Island is a short way from Melbourne and is basically a beach island that’s populated by animals. There’s great swimming and surfing on this island, but the animal watching is the real draw. You’ll see seals and tiny penguins marching across the sand like soldiers. And that’s a sight that sticks with you.

What to do there: Enjoy the wildlife! There are more seals on this island than people and the tiny penguins are quite possibly the cutest thing ever! Every evening at the same time they come ashore at the beach and march towards their burrows, and this is something everyone should see at least once.

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#21 – The Crown

• A huge entertainment complex with everything you could want to do in one place.
• If you want a fun, easy afternoon, this is where you can have it.

Why it’s so awesome : The Crown is basically a big entertainment complex that contains everything you could want for a fun, easy day out. There are a huge number of shops of all descriptions, eateries, theaters, nightclubs and cafes, so no matter what time of day you go there you’ll find something happening.

What to do there : Wander around the shops, duck into one of the many cafes for a coffee, and then round out your afternoon by eating at one of the many restaurants in the complex. You can also spend some money in the casino or go dancing. And if you get bored with that, the Crown is located over the river, so have a stroll along the promenade to work off all that food!

#22 – The Shrine of Remembrance – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Melbourne

• A memorial for all the people who died in war.
• A sobering but important place to visit.

Why it’s so awesome : Not everywhere you go when you’re on holiday will be fun and amazing. It’s also important to visit the places that make you think, remember and acknowledge the sacrifices that made our current world possible. The Shrine of Remembrance was built to honor the victims of the First World War. But over time, it has become a memorial to all the Australians who died in every war. The site is beautifully lit up, and the architecture is reminiscent of Roman buildings.

What to do there : Take a moment to remember the sacrifices of the people who came before while you visit this venue. These types of memorials are important because they remind everyone of the cost of hate and fear, so spend some time remembering the pain of the past in the hope that it won’t be repeated in the future.

#23 – Chapel Street

• A fun and vibrant area where you can shop and get a great meal.
• There are a number of important buildings in the area, so make sure you have a wander and check them out.

Why it’s so awesome : This street is filled to the brim with boutiques, restaurants and entertainment areas. It’s a vibrant area where you can check out the latest fashions in clothes and food while you enjoy watching some people watching.

What to do there : While you’re in Chapel Street, make sure you do more than shop. Some of the oldest and most important buildings in the city are in this area, so take the time to explore. Have a look at the Jam Factory , the Prahran Town Hall and Prahran Market.

#24 – The Immigration Museum

• A must-see for history buffs!
• A museum that teaches you about the importance and the role of diversity in society.

Why it’s so awesome : Australia has a strange and sometimes tragic history and most people who live there came from all over the globe. You can explore this history through the Immigration Museum, which emphasizes the importance and the role of diversity and immigration in the past and in the present.

What to do there : If you want to understand more about Australia’s history then you can explore the museum on your own. The museum’s collection of resources and information is vast, so spend some time getting to know this side of this highly diversified country.

#25 – St. Paul’s Cathedral

• One of the most important landmarks in the city.
• The center of the Anglican religion in the city.
• You can visit to worship or just check out the architecture.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum is located on the corner of Flinders Street and Swanston and is one of the most important landmarks in the city. The building is an unusual yellow-brown color because it’s made from sandstone and limestone, which is highly unusual for this type of construction. It was completed in 1891 on the site where the first public Christian service was held in 1835.

What to do there : The inside and the outside of the building are well worth a look as they were designed by some of the best architects alive at the time. The building is distinctly Victorian in design, reflecting Australia’s past, and the colors and design really stand out and are different to everything else in the city. Make sure that you spend some time in the interior as well as it features rich and contrasting colors and elegant stonework.

#26 – Degraves Street

• One of the best laneway’s in Melbourne.
• If you enjoy Paris, you’ll like the Parisian feel of this street.

Why it’s so awesome : Melbourne is famous for its laneways. You can turn down one and find yourself in a completely different place, even a different country. And Degraves Street is one of the best and the most famous in the city. It connects Flinders Lane and Flinders Street and has a real Parisian feel to it, with a surfeit of cafes and laneways.

What to do there : This is a great place to have a meal, dessert or coffee. There are also some great places where you should try some wine before you explore the shops. Make sure you look around the stationary store Il Papiro and eat some gelato at Pidapipo before you go.

#27 – Lune Croissanterie

• This store represents a dream and just how good it can be when dreams come true.
• If you enjoy croissants, you’ll absolutely love them at this store.

Why it’s so awesome : This store was created by brother and sister team Kate and Cameron Reid and it’s fast become the most popular patisserie store in the city. The croissants are just about good enough to die for and the crowds inside the store and the line outside of it back that up.

What to do there: You’ll have to wait in line to get into the store, but it’s absolutely worth it. The croissants are created in a climate-controlled lab and they’re perfectly crisp and golden with layers of pastry. Make sure you try the plain croissants because they’re incredible, but take some other varieties home with you as well.

#28 – The Adelphi Hotel Pool – One of the more unique places to visit in Melbourne!

• Swimming is a fact of life in Australia, and if you’re going to do it, you might as well do it in a truly amazing pool.
• Not for the squeamish!

Why it’s so awesome : Australia is hot, which is why the locals swim every chance they get. If you need to cool off, then why not do it in the most famous pool in Melbourne? The rooftop pool at the Adelphi hotel is glass-bottomed and it actually hangs out over the street below. This means that you can watch tiny little people scurrying below while you get some exercise.

What to do there: You don’t have to stay in the hotel to use the pool, but you do have to pay an entrance fee. Just grab your towel and enjoy the view. And once you’re done, you can always try one of the hotel’s restaurant options for amazing meals and first-rate service.

#29 – The Spleen Bar – A great place to visit in Melbourne at night

• A casual bar with a great reputation for amazing comedy!
• If you’re looking to explore the lighter side of the city, you’ll find it at this bar.

Why it’s so awesome : This bar is small and unpretentious and yet it’s been operating for more than 15 years. In fact, it’s become the go-to bar for cheap drinks and snacks as well as an unbeatable Monday night comedy lineup. All the biggest acts in Australia try out their new material at this bar, so prepare for a laugh.

What to do there: If you want to see the comedy shows on Monday, arrive early so you can get a seat. The Spleen Bar isn’t large, and entrance is free, so you don’t want to miss out. Then just grab a drink and enjoy the show. The quality of the shows are consistently good and who knows, you might see a star!

#30 – Centre Place

• The home of Melbourne’s best street art.
• You’ll have lots of chances to take some great photos in this area.

Why it’s so awesome : This alley has great food, amazing shopping and some of Melbourne’s best street art as well. The art changes regularly because of the repainting schedule, so even if you’ve seen it before, it’s worth stopping by to see if there’s anything new.

What to do there : Eat, shop, and take photos of street art. Get there early if you want to explore without the crowds, but otherwise be prepared to have a lot of stranger in your pictures.

#31 – The Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Center

• An important venue that teaches visitors about Aboriginal Culture.
• Celebrate the vibrant stores and culture of Australia’s first people.

Why it’s so awesome: The Australian Aboriginal culture is vibrant and filled with stories and this museum seeks to teach some of those stories to the public. To this end, you’ll find lots of artworks, traditional performances and storytelling rituals in this museum. And you’ll walk away knowing more about this ancient culture than you did before.

What to do there: You’ll find a lot of fascinating exhibits in this area, particularly if you don’t know very much about the Aboriginal culture. Don’t miss the Deep Listening Space, where you can listen to Aboriginal people telling their cultural stories about creation and the time after it. Also, make sure you check the schedule of events while you’re there so you don’t miss any performances or exhibits.

#32 – Hamer Hall – One of the nicer places in Melbourne to sightsee!

• One of the city’s best concert halls.
• It’s also the only place in the city where you don’t have to ride in an elevator to see amazing views.

Why it’s so awesome : Hamer Hall is one of the best concert halls in the city, with lots of great shows, but the real draw is the view. You can walk up the stairs on the outside of the hall until you get to the top where you can get stunning views of the city and the riverside.

What to do there : Go there in the early evening and watch the sunset paint colors over the city. Make sure you do it on one of the days when there’s a show on at night too because this is the best place for concert music and theater performances in the city.

#33 – Readings – A great place to visit in Melbourne if you are alone/traveling solo

• An independent bookstore that’s one of the most popular places in the city at night.
• For book lovers and story lovers of all kinds.

Why it’s so awesome : A lot of bookstores have vanished recently, killed off by technology, but there are some that are going strong because they’ve learned to adapt. This bookstore has taken hold of the night crowds in Melbourne, with late night book readings that draw in audiences even at 10pm on Saturday nights.

What to do there : Make sure you go to one of the readings if there’s one on while you’re in the city but check out the store during the day as well. This bookstore has a great range, helpful staff, relaxing vibe and a strong sense of community to it, which is why it has lasted despite technological advances. And when you’re done in the bookstore, you’ll be in Lygon Street, which is one of the best areas for tourists. So check out the other stores in the area as well.

#34 – The Arts House

• The perfect place to see an innovative new show.
• The shows at this theater are experimental and cutting edge.
• You’ll pay less to see a show than you would at the bigger venues.

Why it’s so awesome : If you love the theater but don’t really have the money to see a big show then you can see something amazing at this venue. The Arts House stages cutting-edge local shows at around half the cost you’d pay anywhere else. This venue provides high-quality shows, so no matter when you go, you’ll get to see something that you’ll enjoy.

What to do there : Check the schedule of what’s on at this venue while you’re in the city. The owners of this venue like to push the margins, which is why they stage shows that are innovative and unusual. This includes theater, and dance, as well as digital, visual and live art shows. They also have art festivals throughout the year so check out what’s on while you’re there.

#35 – Hawker Chan – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Melbourne!

• Asian street food in the middle of an Australian city!
• Michelin starred food at a fraction of the normal price.

Why it’s so awesome : Australia is very close to Asia and sometimes that’s super obvious such as when this country adopts its food trends. In Singapore, street food is often served in hawker centers, with lots of stalls gathered together. And in Melbourne’s Hawker Chan, this has been adopted to Australian tastes. This location serves simple food, but it’s good enough to have people lining up around the corner for it!

What to do there: Get there early if you want to avoid the lines but be prepared to wait anyway. Try the chicken soya dish for a fraction of the price you’d find anywhere and see why this location got its Michelin stars.

#36 – Heide Museum of Modern Art

• The best modern art museum in the country.
• This venue champions Australian art of all descriptions.
• Make sure you check out the garden as well!

Why it’s so awesome : This museum was founded by John and Sunday Reed, collectors who supported the local modernist movement in the 1930s and 1940s, and it’s still going strong in this spirit. It’s filled with Australian modern artists and artwork, and it’s worth seeing just to experience the Australian creative spirit up close.

What to do there : Take some time to check out the art work first, but once you’re finished there, go out to Heide’s green sculpture park. You’ll find iron cows and an idyllic green area with metal sculptures all nestled next to the river bank. This is an awesome place to sit and relax while you enjoy the farmyard feel.

#37 – The Nicholas Building – An awesome place to visit in Melbourne for half a day!

• An art deco icon in the city.
• This old building has been turned into a hive for creative minds.

Why it’s so awesome : This is ten stories of shopping and adventure that was first built in the 1920s. You’ll find everything here from boutique retailers to art studios and tailors, all in one place. You won’t find anything ordinary to buy here, which is what makes it the perfect place to pick up some unusual items for yourself or for friends back home.

What to do there : You could spend a whole afternoon in this building just exploring the ten floors, and you probably will too. Make sure you check out RetroStar for vintage goods, Mattt for handmade satchels, and L’ucello the specialist haberdasher. You’re bound to come away with something beautiful and unusual when you visit this spot, so just keep your eyes open and go with it.

#38 – Beach Road – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Melbourne

• One of the most scenic roads in the state.
• Perfect if you want to take lots of photographs of Australia’s stunning natural scenery.
• If you love the beach, then there are plenty of chances along the road for you to indulge in that love.

Why it’s so awesome: if you love the idea of driving down winding, seaside roads but don’t have the time to do the Great Ocean Highway, then this is a great alternative. This road twists along the southeastern side of Port Phillip Bay from Brighton all the way to Mordialloc and there are amazing ocean views all the way along. The road also travels through some of Melbourne’s richest areas, so if you want to see how the wealthy live in Australia, this is the perfect place to do it.

What to do there: Take your camera, some friends and snacks and just enjoy the drive. There’s nothing quite like riding along an ocean road with the wind in your hair and your camera at the ready, so make sure you enjoy the experience. Also, take your swimmers along with you and have a dip at Half Moon Beach. It’s shaped like its name and is set at the bottom of an atmospheric, slightly intimidating scrub-covered cliff. Just be careful and remember that Australian beaches are usually rougher than what you would get overseas. So, if you aren’t a strong swimmer, stay close to the shore.

#39 – The Forum

• An atmospheric and historic building that plays host to the best rock and roll shows in the city.
• If you love architecture, you’ll enjoy this unusual building.

Why it’s so awesome : This building went up in the 1920s and is a lavish nod to Moorish architecture. It almost went derelict over the years but was saved and became the city’s best location for great rock and roll artists and shows. The inside of the building is amazing too. When you step inside, you’ll see that the ceiling is blue and dotted with lights like you’re looking at the night sky and the walls are designed to look like a gothic courtyard. This makes it an awesome place to see the kings and queens of rock and roll.

What to do there : The Forum was refurbished in 2017 and all the original features are now out in the open for you to enjoy. Make you sure have a close look at the mosaic floors, which were hidden until the renovation. But what you really want to see in the Forum is one of the shows. In the past, the venue has played host to stars like Nick Cave as well as comedy and theater performances. So, when you have a free night, see what they have on and grab yourself a ticket!

Get insured for your trip to Melbourne!

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They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Melbourne

Which places in Melbourne can you visit today?

To find out which places are open today, check out Klook or Airbnb experiences . They offer guided tours, classes and entry tickets to some of the best attractions in Melbourne.

What can you do in Melbourne for free?

Budget backpackers especially love these free places to visit in Melbourne: – Brunswick Street – The Great Ocean Road – The Spleen Bar

Are there any places to visit in Melbourne for families?

The whole crew will love these amazing places to visit in Melbourne: – The Melbourne Museum – Lune Croissanterie – The Royal Botanic Gardens

Which are the best places to visit in Melbourne during summer?

When it’s hot outside, visit these cool places in Melbourne: – National Gallery of Victoria – The Queen Victoria Market – The Curtin House

Melbourne is the second largest city in Australia, and it’s filled with an amazing amount of diversity. This is what makes the food so great and it also affects the vibe of the city too, making it progressive, edgy and exciting! With this complete guide to the city, you’ll be able to find the best experiences in the city that suit your taste, your budget, and the amount of time you have to spend there.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alexandria Zboyovski

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Home » Travel Guides » Australia » 25 Best Things To Do In Melbourne (Australia)

25 Best Things To Do In Melbourne (Australia)

Melbourne is a hip, dynamic metropolis, with an exciting city centre, inner-city neighborhoods that are full of unique character, and lush green parks and mountain ranges where you can enjoy Australian nature at its finest.

The city is known for its many laneways, its cultural diversity, excellent dining options for all budgets, and amazing street art. It’s also known for being the coffee capital of the world, and for being regularly voted as the world’s most livable city!

Lets explore the best things to do in Melbourne :

1. Drink the world’s best coffee

It’s official: you’ll find the world’s best coffee in Melbourne, as voted by over a thousand users on website booking.com .

Melbourne beat out many of the world’s most renowned coffee cities, such as Rome and Vienna, for the title; you’ll certainly know why once you see how committed Melbourne baristas are to their craft.

It’s actually hard to find a bad cup of coffee in Melbourne: the city touts itself as a world leader in coffee and café culture, and the inhabitants are proud to be coffee snobs! Cafes in London even advertise that they have Melbourne baristas, as Australian and New Zealander baristas essentially brought high-quality coffee to the city.

Melbourne even plays host to a coffee expo, and the 2014 world barista champion Pete Licata (from the USA) has described coffee culture in Melbourne as “incredible”. If you’re a coffee lover, you’ve come to the right place.

You’ll find great coffee just wandering through the laneways of the city, and there are actually tailored tours available to coffee aficionados: check out Hidden Secret Tours or Melbourne Coffee Tours for details.

According to Yelp, the best cup of coffee in Melbourne can be found at Patricia on Little Bourke Street: it’s a tiny hole-in-the-wall place with no seating and a line-up to get in, but likely the best coffee you will ever taste! The staff are also friendly, and the place deserves the hype.

Book online: Melbourne Cafe and Coffee Culture Walk

2. Check out the amazing street art

Melbourne is very well-known for its street art, being considered one of the street art capitals of the world.

The city council has designated certain areas as approved for street artists, and the street art here is of exceptionally high quality and changes regularly; it’s a great way for budding street artists to get experience in the artistic side of graffiti, and having structured locations for this amazing creative outlet helps to reduce the levels of graffiti elsewhere, as well as adding a great urban vibe that tourists and locals both enjoy. You’ll find a map of street art in Melbourne here .

There’s even a Melbourne street art tour , run by street artists, for people who’d like a deeper understanding of what they’re seeing, how it’s made and who is involved in this fascinating underground art scene. There’s also one available on getyourguide.com .

3. Wander through laneways

An aimless wander through the many laneways of Melbourne is a wonderful way to see what this city has to offer.

City maps are available at the Federation Square Visitor Information Centre, and many hotels; some of the most interesting laneways include Centre Place, AC/DC Lane (named after the famous Aussie rock band!), Hardware Lane and Degraves Lane.

You’ll find plenty to see, do, buy and eat, and gain a new appreciation of Melbourne’s urban culture.

Available tour : Melbourne Laneways Tour

4. Visit Flinders Street Station and Federation Square

The main entrance to Flinders Street Station is a picturesque cultural symbol of Melbourne you’ll find on many postcards or tourist brochures: this gorgeous building was opened in 1910, and it is listed on the Victorian heritage register.

Inside you’ll find Australia’s busiest railway station, a small shopping area with tasty food options, and easy walking access to Southbank.

Across the road, Federation Square is another Melbourne icon, with a unique and fascinating architectural design, making the Square quite unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Once you’re at the Square, make sure that you visit the Australian Centre of the Moving Image, which has hosted fascinating displays on subjects such as Claymation, and the Ian Potter Centre art gallery.

5. Rock out

Melbourne is famous for its live music scene, particularly rock music.

There’s plenty of bands playing at any given time, and the city attracts international talent, including of the up-and-coming variety.

It’s also the home of the legendary Australian singer-songwriter-poet-author Nick Cave.

Some popular spots to catch a band include the Corner Hotel, the Evelyn Hotel, the Spotted Mallard, the Post Office Hotel, the Ding-Dong Lounge, the Esplanade Hotel and the Palais Theatre.

6. Learn how things work at Scienceworks

Scienceworks houses an exciting array of hands-on science exhibits, workshops and events.

It also includes a planetarium, a lightning room, and a mini-metropolis called Nitty Gritty Super City, that demonstrates in small-scale how a city works.

The planetarium hosts informative shows, and the Lightning Room offers 30-minute live shows that include a gigantic Tesla Coil that can generate over two million volts of electricity to produce 3 metre lightning bolts.

Children and adults alike will have a great time here!

7. Stroll the botanic gardens

The Botanic Gardens are walking distance from the city centre, and offer an oasis of calm, peace and greenery just outside of the urban bustle.

They’re a popular spot for local walkers and joggers, and the breathtaking landscapes make them ideal for a peaceful meditation session.

With more than 8,500 plant species, the botanic gardens are colorful, gorgeous and fascinating.

You could even bring a sketch book and try your hand at drawing some of the beautiful flowers or backdrops!

8. Have a gourmet Greek dinner

Melbourne has the largest Greek population of any city outside of Athens, and the close-knit, vibrant Greek community always has plenty of cultural events going on.

There’s also the wonderful Greek Precinct, where you’ll find Greek cuisine of a standard that you’d expect in Greece itself! This area also has many Greek cultural shops, and the Hellenic Museum is nearby.

If you’re in Melbourne in March or September, you may also wish to check out the Antipodes Festival or the Greek Film Festival respectively.

9. Get sporty at the MCG

The Melbourne Cricket Ground bills itself as “Australia’s favourite stadium”, with good reason.

Melbourne is a sports-mad city, and the MCG is the centre of the action.

Home to the Melbourne Cricket Club, the stadium also plays host to the wildly popular AFL, as well as international soccer, rugby and various other events.

Originally built in 1853, the stadium has been renewed many times, and is the largest stadium in Australia, as well as being the 10th largest in the world: the record for the largest crowd at the MCG is around 130,000 people.

The MCG is also home to the Australian Gallery of Sport and Olympic Museum.

Check out the MCG website for the latest on what’s on at the stadium, and catch a game of cricket or AFL to experience Melbourne’s passion for sport.

Or book a tour online: Melbourne Sports Walking Tour & MCG Tour

10. Shop till you drop

Melbourne is renowned for its world-class shopping; in particular, Chapel Street is popular with both local and international celebrities for its excellent range of high-quality clothing or visit the former Melbourne Government Post office, wich now functions as a shopping mall.

Bridge Road in Richmond is a great spot for outlet shopping, great food at budget prices, and excellent homewares.

Fitzroy is well-known for its eclectic, vintage finds, and further afield, Highpoint and Chadstone are excellent, large shopping malls with a wide range of Australian and international brands.

11. Learn about Victoria’s convict past at Old Melbourne Gaol

Old Melbourne Gaol is a museum in the city centre, which operated as a prison from its opening in 1842 to 1929. It was the site of the execution of many of Australia’s most infamous criminals, including Ned Kelly; 133 people were executed here while the prison was in operation.

The museum offers a glimpse into life in the 1800s; some mentally ill and homeless people were also interred in the prison, and the harsh conditions they were subject to seem quite shocking by modern standards.

The museum includes an impressive range of artifacts, including the death masks of many executed criminals.

The museum is considered by some to be haunted, and ghost tours are offered by the museum that tell stories recorded by visitors and staff alike.

Related tour : Melbourne Complete City Walking Tour

12. Visit the Immigration Museum

The Immigration Museum is a celebration of the melting pot of modern-day Australia, and the many cultures that have come together to make this country what it is today.

Located in the beautiful Old Customs House, the museum tells the stories of the diverse populations of Melbourne and Victoria at large, and tells of the immigration experience, the definitions of identity, and the long and arduous journey that many immigrants would have experienced on their way to Australia.

It also includes the Customs Gallery, a record of the past incarnation of the Old Customs House as the focal point for immigration, trade and shopping during the 19th Century.

13. Have a night out at the Crown Casino Comple

The Crown Casino Complex is a massive casino and resort complex adjacent to the Yarra River; it is the largest casino complex in the southern hemisphere, and one of the largest internationally.

Open 24 hours, 7 days a week, except for 3 public holidays per year, it’s great fun if you enjoy gambling, but has so much more to offer: it’s a luxury shopping destination, as well as having wonderful restaurants and pumping nightlife.

The Atrium area is gorgeous, with lovely fountains and sound/light shows, and there are pyrotechnic towers just outside the complex itself that are fascinating to watch; shooting fireballs into the night sky, they are referred to as the “Gas Brigades”, and are the largest of their type in the world.

14. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the Queen Victoria Markets

The Queen Victoria Markets have been an important food hub of Melbourne since they were opened in 1878. Home to some of Melbourne’s tastiest produce stalls and delicatessens, you’ll find excellent cheeses, olives and smoked meats here.

The building itself is a gorgeous example of Victorian architecture, and you’ll also find many artisanal crafts made by local creatives, as well as souvenirs for your friends back home.

Various events are held at the markets during the year, so check the website to see what’s on.

Suggested tour : Melbourne Multicultural Markets Culinary Culture Tour

15. Admire Aboriginal art

There are several Aboriginal art galleries within Melbourne’s city centres and surrounds, as well as an extensive collection of Aboriginal art within the City Gallery (inside Town Hall), the Flinders Lane Gallery, the Ian Potter Museum of Art and NGV International.

Aboriginal art is lauded internationally for its beauty and symbolism, and Melbourne is an excellent spot to learn about the importance of art in indigenous culture, and the beauty of the artworks.

Available tour : Melbourne Cultural Highlights City Walk

16. Enjoy a taste of Italy on Lygon Street

The Lygon Street Italian Precinct, also known as Little Italy, is a gorgeous leafy street running through several Melbournian suburbs, with a rich café culture that introduced Melbourne to the love of high-quality coffee for which the city is now famous.

You’ll find world-class Italian dining here, as well as Italian produce and culture stores, the beautiful Lygon Buildings (built in 1888), and shopping boutiques.

17. Visit the Block Arcade

The Block Arcade is a retail precinct housed in a gorgeous heritage shopping arcade, opened in 1892. Rich in history and boasting stunning architecture, the Block Arcade is a step into the nostalgia of the past, as well as housing some lovely luxury boutiques, and the quirkly Art of Dr. Seuss gallery, the Hopetoun tearooms and Haigh’s chocolates.

18. Have a picnic at the Carlton Gardens, and visit the Royal Exhibition Building

The Carlton Gardens complex are a 26-hectare site containing the Royal Exhibition Building, Melbourne Museum and Imax cinema.

The site is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and is an easy walk from the city centre.

It’s well worth a visit for the immaculate gardens, lovely fountains and beautiful architecture.

The gardens are a lovely spot for a stroll, and to get to know a diverse range of Australian and international flora (and occasionally fauna!) You can also often catch events here, including gardening festivals.

Included in : Melbourne 3-Hour Small Group Tour

19. Go penguin-spotting at St Kilda

St Kilda is full of attractions for tourists and locals alike, from the delicious cakes of Acland Street to the community gardens and the thriving nightlife.

There’s also a gorgeous beach, with famous Victorian beachhouses, and a pier; surprising to many, this busy suburb of Melbourne has some unexpected residents, a colony of the St little penguins! This colony established itself in the 1970s on the St Kilda breakwater, and arrive just after sunset every night of the year, being particularly numerous in summer.

Penguin guides are on duty during the daylight savings period, to answer any questions about the penguins that you may have.

They do request that visitors treat the penguins, their nesting sites, eggs and chicks with respect: they love their family as much as you do!

Top-rated Day Trip available: Phillip Island: Penguins and Wildlife Full-Day Tour

• 20.  Go bushwalking in the Dandenong Ranges

The Dandenong Ranges is a gorgeous mountain range on the outskirts of Melbourne, and it’s a perfect spot for walkers, cyclists, hikers, nature-lovers and bird-watchers.

The breathtaking scenery in the ranges make it a popular tourist destination, both for active travellers and for romantic getaways; it’s also a popular spot for wedding photos.

You’ll find many charming little towns within the ranges, fantastic farm-gate produce, and the famous Puffing Billy steam train.

Recommended tour : Dandenong Ranges Tour by Puffing Billy Train

21. Catch a festival

Melbourne is renowned for its festivals; it’s worth checking out the visitor centre in Federation Square, or looking online, to find out what’s going on during your visit.

Some particularly popular festivals include White Night (an illumination festival in the inner city), the Lonsdale Street Greek Festival, Cultural Diversity Week, the Lunar New Year celebrations, the Midsumma Festival, the Moomba Festival and the Christmas Festival.

22. Go on a safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo

The Werribee Open Range Open Zoo is a bit of a trek from the city centre, but it’s well worth it: this African-themed safari-style zoo allows you to get very close to a wide variety of exotic animals.

It also hosts various events, including the Rhythm of Africa.

It’s a great spot to keep younger travelers entertained, but also a lot of fun for wildlife-loving adults.

Book online :  Werribee Open Range Zoo Admission Ticket

23. Go gallery-hopping

There’s over 100 galleries in Melbourne, ranging from small studio galleries to the huge NGV, and with almost any art style you can imagine, including Melbourne’s iconic Heidelberg style.

If you’re an art lover, then you may wish to spend several days getting to know Melbourne’s vibrant art scene.

You’ll find some of the better-known galleries listed here . One currently very popular is the Immersive Art Gallery .

24. Go on a wooden roller-coaster built in 1912

Luna Park opened in St Kilda in 1912, and the Scenic Railway started operating in the same year.

This rollercoaster holds the honor of being the world’s oldest continually operating rollercoaster, and while it looks quite rickety by today’s standards, it’s a fascinating taste of what theme parks of the past must have been like.

Luna Park charges a small $5 entry fee for those wanting to visit the park without going on any of the rights (to help cover the preservation of the park). Even if you’re not a fan of theme park rides, you can still get some great photos on the grounds, and the rich history of the site makes it worth visiting in its own right. If you change your mind and want to go on any of the rides the entree fee will be deducted from the ticket price.

25. Take a river cruise

The Yarra River that separates Melbourne city centre from Melbourne is home to many stunning views, and taking a cruise down the river is a great way to experience this important part of Melbourne.

Many cruise operators operate on the river, so you can pick and choose which suits your needs and budget the best.

It’s also possible to kayak down the river with a kayak tour operator; keep in mind that the water quality of the Yarra is very low, so if you capsize you will need to shower and get changed as soon as possible.

25 Best Things To Do In Melbourne (Australia):

• Drink the world’s best coffee
• Check out the amazing street art
• Wander through laneways
• Visit Flinders Street Station and Federation Square
• Learn how things work at Scienceworks
• Stroll the botanic gardens
• Have a gourmet Greek dinner
• Get sporty at the MCG
• Shop till you drop
• Learn about Victoria's convict past at Old Melbourne Gaol
• Visit the Immigration Museum
• Have a night out at the Crown Casino Comple
• Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the Queen Victoria Markets
• Admire Aboriginal art
• Enjoy a taste of Italy on Lygon Street
• Visit the Block Arcade
• Have a picnic at the Carlton Gardens, and visit the Royal Exhibition Building
• Go penguin-spotting at St Kilda
• Catch a festival
• Go on a safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo
• Go gallery-hopping
• Go on a wooden roller-coaster built in 1912
• Take a river cruise

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13 Best Things to Do in Melbourne

By Krista Simmons

Arguably Australia's cultural capital, there's certainly no shortage of unique things to do in Melbourne. With its diverse residents, world-class art and architecture, and vibrant music, food, and comedy scenes, it's not just the heart of the state of Victoria, but the country as a whole. Here's our list of can't-miss activities for when you're on the ground, our editor's picks of what to do when you're in Melbourne.

Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia Arrow

Australia's oldest pre-eminent public art museum is arguably the hub of culture in Melbourne. With two separate wings—the Ian Potter Center at the iconic Federation Square and the International gallery across the river—there’s certainly no shortage of creativity to take in. While the International wing does get some amazing exhibitions (including the recent installment from MOMA), what’s truly unique to AUS is the Indigenous and non-Indigenous art from the colonial period to the present day at the Potter Center, which includes over 20 galleries.

The Blender Studios Street Art Tour Arrow

Organized and led by actual artists from the ultra edgy Blender Studios collective, this is one of the most organic walking tours we have ever done. The homespun, authentic feel of walking some of the city's most iconic laneways for street art with someone who has an intimate knowledge of—and participation in—the scene is an unrivaled experience. Ending the tour at Blender Studios for an informal gallery tour with wine and nibbles, and interacting with some of the artists in their workspace, was a unique and organic way to round out the day.

Queen Victoria Market Arrow

The Queen Vic Market was officially opened in 1878, and since that time has operated as a cemetery, a livestock market, and a wholesale fruit and vegetable market. Today it’s one of the city’s most vibrant community centers, with entire halls dedicated to organic produce, meats, cheeses, and artisan wares. And in the wintertime, it turns into a night market with plenty of soul warming offerings to keep you cozy.

The Block Arcade Arrow

Designed to mimic by the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan, this stunning architectural gem opened in 1893 in the center of the city—once the premiere place in Melbourne to see and be seen—boasts mosaic-tiled floors, stained glass windows, sweeping skylights, wrought iron fixtures and carved stone finishes. Bonus: There’s still some great shopping to boot. It's only fitting that the historic Block Arcade also would be home to the original location of AUS's original chocolatier, Haigh's, which is a must-stop for any sweet tooth. There's also an entire store dedicated to naturally died alpaca wool scarves and clothing, also originating from Australia.

Jessica Puckett

Olivia Morelli

Rachel Chang

Abbotsford Convent Arrow

Australia's largest multi-arts community hub, this historic, well groomed convent is a converted mixed-use space that includes artist studios, exhibitions, events, workshops, good food, spaces for hire, gardens, and more. The convent was originally built in 1893 for an order of Roman Catholic nuns as a self-sufficient orphanage for more than 1,000 children—and it included a massive farm and school. Spend the day wandering the property with a craft beer from their brewery in hand, and enjoy the revitalized and homespun feel of the new community spaces.

Rooftop at QT Arrow

The first thing that hits you as you walk into the indoor-outdoor space on the 11th floor of the stylish yet unpretentious QT Hotel are the sweeping views of Melbourne's ever-growing skyline. While many think of the city's hidden laneways and cafes as its signature, rooftop bars are becoming just as much of a "thing," with QT having one of the largest in the city. It makes a perfect spot to kick off a cocktail crawl around the CBD.

Melbourne Cricket Ground Arrow

MCG, or “The G" as it's known, is an institution both in Australia and worldwide. It's the largest cricket pitch in the Southern Hemisphere, and was the site of the 1956 Olympic Games. In addition to hosting Cricket World Cups, the stadium is also where Aussie rules football games, or footie, are played. Plus rugby, soccer, and more. The G is also home to the National Sports Museum, so be sure to check that out. Aussies are known to be some of the most passionate and vibrant fans, so you almost want to sit in the nosebleeds to get the full experience.

Attica Arrow

Ben Shewry has become the poster child for modern Australian cuisine, with this nondescript Ripponlea restaurant consistently gracing the World's 50 Best List, as well as top shows like “Chef’s Table.” Though Shewry is actually a New Zealand expat, the menu is distinctly Aussie, using ingredients like emu eggs, foraged herbs, and even Vegemite, all spun into artfully presented cuisine. His meticulous approach to cooking and sourcing has propelled his restaurant as one of the most sought-after reservations in the Southern Hemisphere, so prepare to book early if you want to snag a seat.

Preston Market Arrow

If there's one thing Melbourne nails, it's markets. It's difficult to pick a favorite among them all, and really it depends on what area you're based in, but Preston Street is a highlight because of its eclectic cultural offerings. Melbourne is home to huge hubs of Greek and Italian immigrants, and you'll find delis and bakeries reflecting that here, as well as traders selling unique artisan wares.

The Rose St. Artists' Market Arrow

Every Saturday and Sunday, a gaggle of local jewelers, crafters, artists, and designers convene in the Fitzroy neighborhood to peddle their wares. The indie vibe reaches peak hipster at the market’s rooftop bar and diner that caters to both creatives and shoppers alike, making for the perfect ending to a day wandering the area. The handmade jewelry game is really on point here, with colorful and whimsical clay jewelry from folks like Polly Collective and B Hunny Designs. And considering the AUD/USD conversion rates, you're getting a great deal on statement pieces that'll be the center of attention with basics.

ST ALi Arrow

It’s hard to imagine the third-wave coffee scene in Australia—and throughout the rest of the world—without St. Ali. Since its opening in 2005, the South Melbourne coffee shop has served as the home base for a series of offshoot businesses dedicated to mindfully sourced coffee, in a city that's now well regarded as ground zero for the global craft coffee movement. So you’d be remiss not to hop in to one of their cafes and grab a “magic,” a small cup that’s filled with steamed milk poured over a double ristretto, now Melbourne’s signature drink. Like any great cafe, though coffee is only half the story: There's great food coming out of the kitchens, too. The menu changes depending on the season, featuring dishes like creme brûlée pancakes, or the totally addictive “dirty” poached eggs made with roasted bull horn peppers, smoked paprika mousse, crispy potato noodles, and a padrón pepper sauce.

Federation Square Arrow

Whether you're heading out on a walking tour, cruising along the Yarra River, or scoping out a day at the NGV, you're likely going to spend a good chunk of time at Federation Square. Arguably the hub of Melbourne's CBD, the square is a center of cultural activity. You'll find countless museums, live performances, and of course the main Metro hub right nearby.

St. Kilda Beach Arrow

If you visit Melbourne and don't step foot on the St. Kilda sand, were you even there? This landmark is famous for its colorful bathing boxes that make it Insta-famous, but it's also a great spot for walking, rollerblading, wind surfing, and all matter of water sports. There's never a shortage of activity, so if you're looking for something secluded, this isn't the place. But it sure is great for people watching.

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31 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

Travelling to Melbourne? But not sure which tourist attractions to visit?

From street art to iconic markets, museums and sporting arenas, there are heaps of attractions to see in Melbourne. I’ve done the research, bought the tickets, and put together a guide to the best tourist attractions in Melbourne – enjoy!

Updated: July 16, 2023

Taylor I lived in Melbourne for 10 years and loved exploring the best things to do.

Hosier Lane

Flinders st, melbourne.

Highly reccommended

When people think of Melbourne, many think of the incredible laneways ; these winding burrows channel the life of the city. These thin alleys are filled with cafes, street-art, bars and buskers; they are brimming with charm and an essential visit for any tourist.

Originally dingy service lanes (built to service local businesses and residents) Melbourne’s laneways were first revitalised in the 1980’s by the city council. This ushered in many small businesses and the beginning of a Melbourne icon.

Melbourne’s most popular and commercial laneway is Hosier Lane, just down from Flinder’s Street Station. This laneway is bursting with street art from local artists, including a giant mural of a young Indigenous boy.

Join a laneway walking tour and let an expert guide you to the best laneways. This is an excellent way to ensure you don’t miss any.

Block Arcade

282 collins st, melbourne.

Standing in stark contrast to the city’s laneways are the glamourous arcades. They substitute street art and cobblestones with boutique shops and tiled floors.

The city features several glamourous arcades , including The Royal Arcade , the oldest arcade in Australia. While it’s very easy to visit them all (and we suggest you do) our pick of the bunch is The Block Arcade .

Modelled after the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan – it’s a pretty blatant copy – The Block Arcade features a giant domed roof, mosaic floor, and carved stone finishings.

Why is it called ‘The Block Arcade’? From the 1860s to the 1930s, men and women would walk around this city block, dressed in their finest clothes in an attempt to be admired by others.

This past time of high society was referred to as ‘doing the block.’

Flinders St Station

While Sydney has the Opera House (pfft), Melbourne has Flinders Street Station . Operating as the hub of the metropolitan train network, this city icon welcomes thousands of workers into the city every day.

The station is also Melbourne’s most popular meeting place. Phrases like “I’ll meet you under the clocks” refers to the clocks that indicate train departures – important knowledge if you want to blend in with the locals.

While you can venture into Flinders Street Station , there isn’t much to do unless you’re catching a train.

Instead, stand on the diagonally opposite corner for the perfect Instagram photo opportunity.

Little Bourke St, Melbourne

During the Victorian Gold Rush (1851) thousands of Chinese workers immigrated to Melbourne in order to mine the goldfields.

With the offer of riches, the Chinese commonly referred to Victoria as ‘New Gold Mountain.’

The Chinese settlers established a community in the city centre, and this has evolved into Melbourne’s Chinatown – the world’s oldest Chinese settlement in the Western world.

Taking up two blocks, the opium dens and brothels have been replaced with dumpling houses and bars. Hutong & Shandong Mama are widely regarded for their handmade parcels of deliciousness.

To learn more about how Chinese immigrants have influenced Melbourne, a visit to The Chinese Museum is also worthwhile.

City Circle Tram

Jumping on a tram is an instinctive behaviour of the Melbournian. As a tourist, you’ll need to join the locals, and the best way to practice is by catching the No 35.

This is the City Circle Tram, an iconic heritage W-Class tram (one of the old ones) that travels in a loop around the city centre.

You’ll pass city landmarks and major attractions, including Melbourne Museum, Parliament House, State Library of Victoria, Docklands, Federation Square, and the Sealife Aquarium.

Federation Square

Swanston st & flinders st, melbourne.

Located on the busiest intersection in Melbourne, Federation Square (more commonly called Fed Square) is the city’s only official town square.

It was opened in 2002, 101 years after Australia’s federation from Britain.

At the time of construction, Federation Square was one of Melbourne’s most controversial constructions; many critiqued its ‘army camouflage’ colours, claiming that it looked like a war-torn site.

But now, Fed Square is an integral part of the city’s identity. Inside you’ll find the Ian Potter Centre , the world’s first major gallery dedicated exclusively to Australian art.

There is also ACMI – The Australian Centre for The Moving Image – a museum that documents film & TV throughout Australia’s history.

Fed Square is one of Melbourne’s best free things to do , and a great place to take a break and people-watch.

Eureka Skydeck

7 riverside quay, southbank.

Rising 297 metres (975 ft) above Southbank, is Eureka Tower, one of the tallest residential towers in the world.

Named after the Eureka Stockade (a rebellion during the Victorian gold rush) the building’s top is coated in 24-carat gold and split by a red stripe, representing the bloodshed during the battle.

It’s here that you can access the Eureka Skydeck and enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the city.

With 30 viewfinders you’ll be able to find Melbourne landmarks or use the binoculars to zoom in for a closer look.

Or try the Edge Experience – a glass cube that projects out from the 88th floor and suspends visitors almost 300 meters high.

State Library of Victoria

328 swanston st, melbourne.

Melbourne can claim many of Australia’s oldest attractions; the oldest public art gallery, oldest building, and the oldest arcade.

We also have the oldest public library in Australia, and indeed one of the first libraries in the world.

The State Library of Victoria is opposite Melbourne Central – and is filled with historical artifacts.

It’s mammoth in size; home to over 2,000,000 books and 350,000 photographs spread across several floors.

The main attraction is the Latrobe Reading Room. Opened in 1913, this octagonal study room is six stories high and topped with a glass dome.

It can fit 320 readers at its desk, and at the time of completion was the tallest structure of its kind.

You’re welcome to wander around (keeping quiet of course) and even ascend the surrounding stairs for a beautiful view overlooking the study desks.

27-29 Tattersalls Ln, Melbourne

You can find just about anything down Melbourne’s alleys, including award-winning laneway bars.

The most iconic laneway bar is Section 8, built inside an old car park complete with wooden palettes for seating. Only intended to be a temporary bar, Section 8 proved so popular with the locals that it has stuck around ever since. And in true dedication to good times, it’s open 365 days a year – even Christmas Day.

National Gallery of Victoria

180 st kilda rd, melbourne.

Melbourne’s passion for art collection began back in 1851, during the Victorian Gold Rush. Melbourne was the largest and richest city in Australia, and many called for the government to establish a public art gallery.

The National Gallery of Victoria is the oldest and most visited gallery in Australia, home to over 70,000 works, stretching over multiple disciplines and even thousands of years – and the best part is, it’s (mostly) free.

You’re welcome to enter and explore; there is a lot to see for no entrance fee. You’ll only need to pay to see the rotating big-name exhibition. Make sure you visit the stained glass ceiling; it’s the biggest in the world.

Old Melbourne Gaol

377 russell st, melbourne.

The Old Melbourne Gaol operated from 1824 to 1929, and was the scene of 133 hangings, including that of the notorious gang leader, Ned Kelly. Now it’s open as a museum and allows you to walk through the cells, see the stocks and learn about its grisly past. They operate day tours and ghost tours.

Melbourne River Cruise

Yarra river, melbourne.

Melbourne was built around the Yarra River ; when the founders arrived, the river provided fresh water for the newly established settlement.

Eventually, factories were built on the river bank and expelled their waste into the river making it unsuitable for drinking.

Our lawyers have told us to make this very clear; you can’t drink from the Yarra River , but you can cruise it.

Take a river cruise and travel through the city’s inner suburbs. You can decide to travel two ways; west (towards the port district,) or east (through the leafy suburbs.)

Heading east is recommended; you’ll pass the historic Herring Island , Como House , Birrarung Marr Park , the Royal Botanic Gardens , The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and fancy Toorak mansions.

Rooftop Bar

Swanston st, melbourne.

Australia’s rooftop bar scene began in Melbourne. Thrifty proprietors had empty roof space and saw the perfect opportunity. One of these original rooftop bars is very simply called Rooftop Bar.

Perched seven floors up, this spacious bar is covered in astroturf and has a beautiful view of the city. However come prepared to climb the stairs: the tiny lift, as charming as it is, is often out of action. Rooftop Bar is open all year round, however, it truly shines during the warmer months.

Queen Victoria Market

Queen st, melbourne.

At over 140 years old, Queen Victoria Market is a staple of local Melbourne culture. Occupying two city blocks, the Vic Market (as the locals call it) houses hundreds of stores.

These include the meat & fish hall, delicatessen, fruit & vegetables, and specialty shopping. It’s a bustling environment, and worth just wandering around.

We recommend grabbing a bite from the deli (go for the gözleme) and a coffee from Market Lane Coffee. The Vic Market also hosts market food tours , allowing you to sample the wares from several different stores.

Melbourne Museum

11 nicholson st, carlton.

Located in the lush Carlton Gardens, The Melbourne Museum showcases Australian history and interactive learning. There are free exhibitions, so you don’t have to spend a cent, but they also have rotating paid exhibitions.

There is a dinosaur section, which features a skeleton of a Diprotodon – a giant wombat-like creature along with a bunch of other installations, including a kids section.

Visit the preserved hide of Pharlap, Australia’s iconic racing horse. This horse ran during Australia’s depression period in the 1930s and won 37 of the 51 races he entered.

IMAX Cinema is directly next door. This single-screen movie theatre has one of the biggest screens in the world. Make sure to wander the Carlton Gardens, one of the best gardens in Melbourne .

Hot Air Balloon

There’s nothing like a hot air balloon to get a view of the city.

Every morning, these hot air balloons fire up in a Melbourne suburb and then float for an hour above the city; Melbourne is one of the few cities in the world where that’s possible.

Not only does it make for an exciting adventure, but it’s also a great way to understand the layout of Melbourne.

Pickup is from the city, and after the flight, you’ll float down into one of Melbourne’s many parks.

Parliament House

Spring st, east melbourne.

From 1901 to 1927, Parliament House was the home of the Federal Government before it moved to its permanent home of Canberra.

At the top end of Bourke Street, is where the Victorian Parliament sits to make legislation. Politics doesn’t seem like a big draw-card, but the building has a very fascinating history.

Parliament House offers a free tour that will take you through the chambers, library, and all sorts of fascinating rooms. You’ll spend an hour or so wandering throughout the building with a very knowledgeable tour guide.

Because Parliament House was built just after Victoria’s gold rush, several of the ceilings are covered in actual gold.

The Yarra Valley

Regional victoria.

Do you like wine? We thought so. You’ll be spoilt for choice at the Yarra Valley . This regional area is home to hundreds of wineries, notably producing Chardonnay, sparkling wine, and Pinot noir.

It’s a very popular tourist destination, welcoming over three million visitors every year. You can visit wineries, try samples, and then purchase your favourites.

There are also non-wine makers, producing gin, vodka and other spirits. Four Pillars & Alchemy are both worth noting.

Avoid driving – we don’t want you going to jail – and take a tour of the Yarra Valley instead.

Cooks Cottage

Fitzroy gardens, east melbourne.

Cook’s Cottage is technically the oldest building in Australia. Built in 1755 in the English village of Great Ayton, North Yorkshire, it was constructed by James and Grace Cook.

Their son, also James, is responsible for the first recorded European contact with the east coast of Australia; you might know him better as Captain Cook.

In 1934 Cook’s Cottage was deconstructed and transported to Melbourne, where it was rebuilt in Fitzroy Gardens.

Purchase a ticket and you’re able to explore the cottage with an audio guide. While you’re here, it’s also worth exploring the Fitzroy Gardens, they’re 64 acres of lush greenery right next to the city.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Brunton ave, richmond.

Melbourne loves sports – and the Melbourne Cricket Ground is the sports capital of the nation. Commonly referred to as ‘The G’ it is the largest stadium in the southern hemisphere and the 10th largest in the world.

Founded in 1853 by the Melbourne Cricket Club, the MCG has since hosted the 1956 Summer Olympics, two cricket world cups, and The Commonwealth Games. The MCG regularly hosts AFL matches (Australian Football League) and hosts the AFL Grand Final every September.

When it comes to Australian beaches, Melbourne isn’t the first place that comes to mind, but we do have St Kilda; a beachside precinct about 6km from the city centre. Here you’ll find a dining district, beachside bars, a theme park, and adorable fairy penguins.

Not far from Acland St is Luna Park, a historic amusement park built in 1912. Based on the park in Coney Island in New York, Luna Park is filled with amusement rides, including a roller coaster that skirts the park’s circumference.

Head to the beach, and onto the pier, and you’ll come to the fairy penguin viewing platform. At sunset, these adorable critters waddle up to their nests in the rocks, returning from a day of fishing.

Shrine of Remembrance

Birdwood ave, melbourne.

The Shrine of Remembrance (commonly referred to as The Shrine) is a war memorial built in honour of the men that fought in World War I. It now functions as a memorial for all Australians who have been sent to war.

The Shrine was built during the great depression and construction relied heavily on public contributions. £160,000 out of a total of £250,000 was donated by the public. This equates to around £ 9.4 million by today’s standards.

As a visitor, you’re able to visit the exhibitions that document Australia’s presence in world conflict, all housed in a cathedral-like underground chamber beneath The Shrine. It is a beautiful testament to the men who gave their lives for our country. It’s humbling, and highly recommended.

Royal Arcade

335 bourke st, melbourne.

Built in 1870, the Royal Arcade is not only Melbourne’s most popular arcade but also the oldest in Australia. The Royal Arcade is a marvel to walk through, with checkered tiles and glass ceiling, making it a great photo opportunity.

Like most of the city’s arcades, Royal Arcade is filled with small independent producers – many of which are confectionaries.

At the Little Collins St end, there are two giant carvings of the mythical figures, Gog & Magog: biblical figures that were said to be allies of Satan. They stand flanking a large clock that was designed by Thomas Gaunt, once ‘the only watchmaker of the Australian colony.’

Visit on the hour and you’ll see them both ring the bell.

The Yarra Trail

While walking is the best way to explore the city, a bike will help get you out to the suburbs.

The Yarra Trail winds along the (Yarra) river for 35km (22 miles), passing Dights Falls, wattles and eucalypts, and Studley Park Boathouse.

You can ride it either way, but you’ll probably start at Southbank (opposite Flinder’s Street Station) and head away from the city.

For an easier ride, you can stop at the Eltham Railway Station and catch the train directly back into the city.

Phillip Island

Phillip Island is known for many things, but just like St Kilda, it’s the fairy penguins that capture visitor’s hearts.

These adorable creatures can only be spotted on the southern coast of mainland Australia, and spend 80% of their time out at the sea. Come sunset they waddle up the beach to take roost, in what is dubbed ‘the penguin parade.’

Phillip Island is its own attraction, and deserving of at least a dedicated day. When’s the most popular time to visit? During the Summer, the population of Phillip Island swells by 400%.

Peninsula Hot Springs

140 springs lane, fingal.

All of this sightseeing, eat and drinking can be tiring, so break it up with a visit to the Peninsula Hot Springs.

Founded by brothers Charles and Richard Davidson in 1997, the inspiration for the baths began when Charles visited several hot springs while living in Japan in 1992.

Throw on your bathers, kick off the shoes and sink into one of many geo-thermal pools. Inspired by the baths in Japan, the water is infused with natural minerals which they claim detoxifies the body and rejuvenates the spirit.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Birdwood avenue, melbourne.

In 1844, Charles La Trobe, the colony’s first Lieutenant Governor, received a request from the Melbourne council asking for parks close to the town, ‘where they could conveniently take recreation therein after their daily labor.’

The 500 acres that La Trobe reserved included Royal Park, The Domain, Fitzroy Gardens, Fawkner Park and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

The Royal Botanic Gardens is now one of Melbourne’s finest attractions; stretching over 89 acres, it is filled with 50,000 individual plants representing 8,500 different species.

There is no entry fee, and you’re welcome to wander around and explore the gardens.

Melbourne Zoo

Elliott ave, parkville.

Modeled after the London Zoo, The Melbourne Zoo is the oldest Zoo in Australia, and home to over 5000 animals from 320 species; if you want to see a kangaroo or koala, this is the closest location from the city.

Along with their Australian outback section, there is also an elephant enclosure, butterfly kingdom, orangutan sanctuary, and reptile house.

Each suburb in Melbourne has its own distinct flair. One of the liveliest and historical is Fitzroy. Located approximately 3km from the city, Fitzroy is Melbourne’s oldest suburb.

It’s known for its street art, music scene, and general bohemian culture. The main street is Brunswick Street (not to be confused with the suburb of the same name) and it’s filled with restaurants, bars, cafes, and clothing stores.

Fitzroy is the vegan capital of Melbourne, with restaurants like Veggie Bar and Transformer.

Dandenong Ranges

Great dividing range.

The Dandenong Ranges (or just ‘the Dandenongs) are a range of mountains located 35km (22miles) east of the Melbourne city centre. Since the 1870’s they’ve been a popular destination for daytrippers looking to escape the concrete jungle.

373 million years ago it was an active volcano, now it’s home to scenic walks, lookouts, picnic areas and Puffing Billy – a heritage-listed steam railway.

The public transport options available to travel to the ranges can get complicated; you’ll need to change between trains and buses. The easiest way is to hire a car and travel there yourself.

St Paul’s Cathedral

Where St Paul’s Cathedral sits is the site of Melbourne’s first Christian service, held in 1835. The block was then used as a corn market until St Paul’s Cathedral was constructed in 1891. Since then it’s been a significant piece of Melbourne’s identity.

St Paul’s is open to everyone and its central location makes it easy to visit and admire the architecture. Entry is free, but there is a small cost to be able to take photos.

Taylor was born and raised in Tasmania. He moved to Melbourne to study Film & television, and went on to start a marketing agency for hospitality.

He has a love for rock ‘n’ roll bars & New York-style pizza. In 2020 he was amongst the top 1% of Frank Sinatra listeners on Spotify.

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25 Things to Do in Melbourne Australia for First Timers

• Australia / In the City

Tiny penguins, a beautiful library, and one too many cups of coffee. That’s what I remember most about Melbourne (or Mel-bin as the locals say). Today, we’re sharing the best things to do in Melbourne for first-timers.

Our trip to Australia was the last trip we took before the world changed from the pandemic. We’ve been holding off on posting some of our travel content, but we’re cautiously excited to see the world open up again.

A big thank you to Doubletree Melbourne for hosting our stay. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: May 29, 2020

• 25 Best Things to Do in Melbourne Australia

Melbourne is the biggest city and capital of Victoria. The city is known for its laneways, unique blend of international cuisine, and coffee. If you love food and coffee, this city is perfect for you.

We also loved that it’s a walkable city, which always makes exploring so much easier and you get in your 10,000 steps.

• Map of Best Melbourne Attractions

More Things to Do in Melbourne

Seasonal things to do in melbourne.

• Essential Tips for First Timers
• Where to Stay in Melbourne

1. Street Art + Laneways

The city also has a bunch of cobbled laneways, or alleyways, which are filled with coffee shops, cafes, and boutiques. It’s a lot of fun to get lost and wander the city through the laneways.

In some of the laneways, you will find incredible street art. Here are some notable ones:

• Hosier Lane is easily the most famous and the most crowded. 
• AC/DC Lane + Duckboard Place
• Centre Place
• Caledonian Lane

Pro Tip: When we walked down a bit further to AC/DC Lane and Duckboard Pl, the crowds thinned out. 

We may have OD’d on some coffee while we were in Melbourne. I know I was walking around jittery. Was it worth it? Absolutely.

There is a rich coffee culture in Melbourne. Many reputedly say it’s the coffee capital of the world. With thousands of cafes to choose from, you could spend an entire trip just hunting down some of the best baristas. 

Pro Tip: The Flat White is Australia’s signature coffee. Similar to a latte, it’s an expresso-based drink with a thin layer of steamed milk. Don’t say it to an Aussie, but there’s still a feud going on about whether the Flat White was invented in Australia or New Zealand.

3. Queen Victoria Market

QVM aka Vic Market or Queen Vic is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere covering 2 city blocks.

We spent a few hours wandering up and down the rows and buildings, picking up snacks along the way. There was so much to see and eat that it can get overwhelming without a plan. You’ll find everything here from general goods, fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, seafood, delicatessen foods, and more. 

We braved the long line at the American Doughnut Kitchen truck. It’s hard to see in the photo below, but the line keeps going. Maybe it’s because we come from the land of doughnuts but it didn’t taste all that special either. Pretty standard donut. We did enjoy the fresh oysters, but it’s also the most touristy part of the market.

Pro Tip: Bring cash. We found several spots we wanted to eat at only accepted cash. The market is closed on Mondays and Wednesdays so be sure to plan accordingly. During the summer, they open it up on Wednesday evenings as a night market.

4. Federation Square

Federation Square is a great spot to relax and people watch. As a center for arts, culture, and public events, you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful architecture, locals picnicking outside, and restaurants.

We picked up some Luna Croissants and devoured them as we people watched.

Local Tip: There are a lot of pigeons in the area that really come after your food!

5. Flinders Street Railway Station

This iconic metro hub opened in 1909 as the first railway station in an Australian, and is still one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. The station is responsible for two of Melbourne’s busiest pedestrian crossings.

The photo below is from our hotel room window at DoubleTree. You can see the station and the pedestrian crossing.

Note: If you hear a local say “I’ll meet you under the clocks,” they are referring to the row of clocks above the main entrance.

6. Yarra River

The Yarra River runs right through the heart of Melbourne so it’s hard to miss it. I love a good cityscape with a river. A great way to see the city from the river is via a river cruise or kayak tour (or a hot air balloon from above it!).

7. Fitzroy Gardens

This Fitzroy Gardens is a huge garden located right in the city. It reminded us a lot of the Mall in Central Park . Within the park, you’ll find historic sites, unique fountains, memorials, and even a conservatory.

8. Royal Botanic Gardens

Talking a walk in the Royal Botanic Gardens transports you out of the busy city. That’s what we love about these urban green spaces. There are over 8,500 plant specifies covering 94 acres of land, right in the center of the city.

You’ll often find walkers and joggers here, and it’s the perfect spot to picnic. 

Pro Tip: Stop by the Visitor Centre to get details on their audio tour.

9. Eureka Skydeck

The Eureka Skydeck gets you 88 floors above the city with panoramic views and photo ops. After riding the fastest elevator in the South Hemisphere, you get to enjoy the floor-to-ceiling views. If you dare, you can also step out on The Edge, which was the world’s first glass cube.

Pro Tip: You can see Dandenong Ranges National Park from the skydeck!

10. National Gallery of Victoria

The NGV is Australia’s oldest and largest art museum. Admission to the permanent collection is free and features art from all over the world.

They also have special exhibits with an entrance fee, and while we there, there was a Yayoi Kusama exhibit.

11. Art Galleries

Melbourne has over 100 art galleries scattered throughout the city. Here are some worth checking out:

• The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia – dedicated to Australian art
• Australian Centre for Contemporary Art
• Buxton Contemporary
• Centre for Contemporary Photography
• Heide Museum of Modern Art
• NGV International

12. Penguins at St Kilda

Head to the St Kilda Breakwater to see this unique penguin habitat. They live in the breakwater and return here every evening. There are volunteers there to help protect the penguins, answer any questions, and they even have red flashlights to help point out the penguins without disturbing them (white light and flash is prohibited). The best viewing time is 30 minutes after sunset, although some may show earlier.

We arrived an hour before sunset and the viewing platform was already packed. By the time the penguins arrive, it’s practically dark and most people start leaving.

Local Tip: The volunteer told us that it’s better just to come after sunset so you don’t have to wait around and that’s what most local photographers do.

13. Luna Park Melbourne

This historic amusement park is a great spot for families. We came to St Kilda for the penguins and happened to park right next to it. 

The Luna Park in Melbourne was built in 1912, 9 years after the Luna Park on Coney Island was built. It’s not affiliated with the original Luna Park but found its inspiration from it.

14. State Library Victoria

The state library is another cultural landmark that is popular amongst locals and tourists. The building was built in 1956 and is now a mix of old and new architecture.

Don’t miss the La Trobe Reading Room, which is the centerpiece of the library and super photogenic. The six-story high domed space is absolutely stunning and worth checking out from the ground level as well as from higher levels.

Pro Tip: If you want to learn more about the library, head to an information desk and ask about the free tours.

15. Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI)

ACMI is Australia’s national museum of film, TV, video games, and digital culture. We didn’t make time to visit this round, but it’s one of the spots we’re bummed we missed after the fact. We checked out a moving image museum in NYC that we loved, and ACMI is apparently the most popular moving image museum in the world.

16. St Paul's Cathedral

The twin spires of this Neo-Gothic cathedral is one of the cities big landmarks. It is free to enter, but if you want to take photos, there is a $5 fee. We found that the architecture on the outside was more impressive than inside, but it’s still cool to see.

17. Old Melbourne Gaol

This was an operating prison from 1842 to 1929, housing some of the most infamous criminals in Australia. It’s now a museum that gives you a glimpse into life in the 1800s and is considered to be haunted. There are ghost tours!

18. Parliament House

The colonnaded Victorian building is hard to miss when you’re walking by since it towers over you and can be seen at the end of Bourke Street. We stumbled across it while walking hopping coffee shops and couldn’t resist stopping for a few photos.

19. Brighton Beach

Melbourne isn’t known for its beaches like Sydney, but Brighton Beach is located in the burbs of Melbourne. It’s a nice spot for a swim and is famous for its colorful Brighton Bathing Boxes. On windy days, you’ll find kiteboarders.

20. Melbourne Cricket Ground

The Melbourne Cricket Ground isn’t only about cricket. They also host the AFL, international soccer, rugby, and more. It’s the largest stadium in Australia and 10th largest in the world.

21. Dandenong Ranges National Park

The Dandenong Ranges National Park is just on the outskirts of Melbourne and draws nature-lovers, bird-watchers, and hikers from all over. Don’t miss the SkyHigh lookout, 100 Steps Trail, and One Tree Hill.

22. Shrine of Remembrance

This memorial commemorates all the Australians who served in World War 1. You can walk through the memorial for free, although donations are welcome, and there’s a great view of the city from the top of the stairs.

Pro Tip: This is a great spot for sunset as well.

23. Star Observation Wheel

The Star Observation Wheel gives you another high vantage point of Melbourne. It is 394 ft (120m) tall and each ride, or one complete rotation, takes 30 minutes.

Photo Tip: For great photos of the wheel itself, head over to the Victoria-Harbour Promenade.

24. Rooftop Bars

Melbourne has some amazing rooftop bars. Here are a few you should check out:

• Naked in the Sky
• Rooftop Bar
• The Emerson Rooftop
• Imperial Hotel
• Easey’s

25. Docklands

The Docklands is known for its shopping and waterside dining. You’ll find urban art sculptures, beautiful bridges, and plenty of shops and restaurants.

Map of Best Things to Do in Melbourne

On your second, third, or 10th visit? Here are some more places to visit in Melbourne.

• Abbotsford Convent
• The Australian Ballet
• The Australian Music Vault
• Australian Sports Museum
• Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre
• Esplanade Hotel
• Half Moon Bay
• Hammer Hall
• Immigration Museum
• Koorie Heritage Trust
• Melbourne Museum
• Melbourne Zoo
• Peninsula Hot Springs (has an Ice Cave)
• Pumping Station at Scienceworks
• Royal Melbourne Show
• Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium
• Shop (Chapel Street, Bourke Street, Block Arcade)
• Sidney Myer Music Bowl
• State Theatre
• Welcome to Thornbury
• The Wheeler Centre
• Werribee Open Range Zoo
• Pink Lake (Summer)
• Australian Open (Jan)
• Midsumma Festival (Jan)
• Lonsdale Street Greek Festival (Feb)
• Melbourne Japanese Summer Festival (Feb)
• MSO Sidney Myer Free Concerts (Feb)
• Moomba Festival (Mar)
• Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix (Mar)
• Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show (Mar)
• Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (Mar)
• Light Up Melbourne Festival (Mar)
• Victoria’s Multicultural Festival (Mar)
• Melbourne International Comedy Festival (Apr)
• Good Beer Week (May)
• Good Food and Wine Show (Jun)
• MIFF – Melbourne International Film Festival (Aug)
• Melbourne Festival (Oct)
• Melbourne Cup Carnival (Nov)
• MMW – Melbourne Music Week (Nov)

Essential Tips for First Time Visitors

• Summer (Dec – Feb) with average temps of 57° to 77°F
• Fall (Mar – May) with average temps of 51° to 69°F
• Winter (Jun – Aug) with average temps of 43° to 58°F
• Spring (Sept – Nov) with average temps of 49° to 68°F
• Walking is the best way to see most of these attractions. It’s a great walkable city.
• Public transportation is an option in Melbourne. There are free tram rides within the city center. Otherwise, you can purchase a myki card to use public transportation outside of the city center. 
• Want to know what to wear to the airport ? These are our ideal airport outfits .
• Carry on essentials to improve your next flight.

Best Places to Stay

We stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton during our time in Melbourne and it was the perfect home base. As you can see below, we were right in the heart of all the CBD action with a view of Flinders Station right from our window. We even took sunset photos from our window on the day we arrived.

Besides being in such a convenient location, we absolutely loved the design of the building. Unlike the cookie cutter DoubleTrees you see in most cities, this one had a boutique vibe. The rooms drew inspiration from the location across such a historic station with custom headboards designed like pulled back drapery in train carriages and subway-inspired bathrooms.

The lobby had a semi-industrial urban feel, and the breakfast buffet was on another level. Neither of us like to wake up for breakfast, but we woke up early each morning to try all the international cuisine.

If you have any questions about our stay, just let us know in the comments below.

What's Nearby

These are some great day trips from Melbourne:

• Great Ocean Road is probably the most popular day trip.
• Mornington Peninsula
• Phillip Island
• Yarra Valley for wine tasting

More Resources

• Melbourne City Map
• Lonely Planet Melbourne & Victoria
• Coastal Victoria Road Trips

Can you think of any other things to do in Melbourne that we missed?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, which is one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found both near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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Melbourne tourist attractions and places to visit that don't suck

You don't have to be a tourist to enjoy these popular Melbourne experiences

When you live in a city, you tend to avoid the popular tourist traps and attractions in favour of things that are off the beaten path like hidden bars or secret gardens . And while a lot of tourist attractions are simply money sinks, many of them are popular with visitors for a reason. 

That's why we've rounded up 27 experiences that we think are actually worth your while and showcase the best that Melbourne has to offer. 

For more inspo, work on your bucket list with  100 things to do in Melbourne before you die , or munch your way through the city with the 50 best restaurants in Melbourne .

An email you’ll actually love

Best Melbourne tourist attractions

1.  Zip across the Yarra in a GoBoat

• Things to do

You’ve had lunch by the river, now try lunch  on  the river. GoBoat is an electric boat hire service currently running in Melbourne that makes it super easy to have picnics at sea (well, a river in this case).  GoBoat’s five-metre-long boats seat up to eight people and don’t need a boating licence to operate. The best part? They come equipped with a built-in wooden picnic table in the middle of the boat.

2.  See the city from above at Melbourne Skydeck

If you think you've got a head for heights, the Melbourne Skydeck will seriously test you. The Edge is a glass box that extends three metres out from the 88th floor of Eureka Tower, and as you walk out, things get a bit freaky with cracking glass sound effects designed just to scare you senseless. T he sound effects are fake, but seeing the city from the highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere is an awesome and essential experience.

3.  Watch the footy at the MCG

• Sport and fitness
• East Melbourne

It doesn’t get much more Melbourne than cheering on your favourite team at the ‘G, piping hot meat pie in one hand, cold beer in the other. But AFL isn’t the only thing that’ll get your blood pumping at the Melbourne Cricket Ground; as the name implies, cricket is the go during summer, and the fascinating Australian Sports Museum is open throughout the year.

4.  Soak away your troubles at Peninsula Hot Springs

Craving a bit of down time? Drive down to the Mornington Peninsula and soak your cares away in the soothing thermal pools of the Peninsula Hot Springs. Spend time in cave pools, get massages and chill out on day beds – you’ve earned it.

5.  Catch an event at Federation Square

Melbourne’s central community hub is, shall we say, divisive – its geometric design isn’t loved by all. But architecture aside, it’s always buzzing with events, screenings, talks, performances and activities. Whether it’s a weekend craft market, an exhibition at NGV Australia or a panel talk, you’re almost guaranteed to find something to pique your interest. Events still run despite the Metro Tunnel works, so don't be put off by that huge construction site on the corner of Flinders Street and St Kilda Road.

6.  Wander round the Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens is the place to escape the madness of the CBD without actually leaving it. It's on the edge of the city, and more than 8,500 plant species call this place home. There lush lawns and glittering lakes that are  perfect for revitalising the mind and soul with a quick stroll, or for lingering longer with a weekend picnic. Tours, walks, workshops and talks are on offer to teach you more of the intricacies of the gardens, while the Aboriginal Heritage Walk takes you on a journey into the rich history of the Kulin nation.

7.  Paddle a kayak and see Melbourne's skyline from the water

• Walks and tours

Kayak Melbourne specialises in guided kayak tours that take you along the Yarra River between Victoria Harbour and Melbourne Park. You can choose to soak up the sunshine with the afternoon City Sights Kayak Tour, or you can explore our waterways by night with the Moonlight Kayak Tours. The nighttime tours include an on-water dining experience, and you'll be able to get some Instagram-worthy shots of the Melbourne skyline as the sun goes down. 

8.  Take a break at the State Library

• Attractions

The State Library of Victoria is a cultural landmark that houses an incredible amount of books, as well as several exhibitions and galleries with a lot of history. The library was established in 1856 and is a grand presence on Swanston Street with interior spaces to match. The La Trobe Reading Room is a six-storey-high domed room that is magnificent to look at. Along with books and artworks, the State Library houses thousands of heritage items, maps, manuscripts and newspapers. Digital material is also available for readers to access. And the best part? All of this is free. 

9.  Wine and dine in the Yarra Valley

It’s amazing how quickly suburban Melbourne gives away to the lush, rolling green hills of the Yarra Valley . It’s one of Victoria’s premier food and wine destinations and just over an hour from the Melbourne CBD. The valley is awash with wineries offering tours, cellar doors and gourmet dining experiences: here are the 11 best wineries in the Yarra Valley . Even those looking for more ‘child-friendly’ attractions won’t leave disappointed. You can keep the kids (little and big) quiet with a trip to the heavenly Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery .

10.  Get up early for the Queen Victoria Markets

Every great city has a great market, and the open-air Queen Victoria Market does Melbourne proud. The place is rammed full of veteran stallholders who are passionate about fresh produce and more than happy to talk you through their wares. The fresh produce, meat and a variety of dairy and small goods mean it's a working place that's popular with locals , but the market has become a must-visit for tourists, too. Cafés fight for space around the outside and heave with brunchers every weekend. Closing hours vary depending on the day, so make sure you check before visiting. And be sure to get a hot jam doughnut before you leave.

11.  Hit the seaside at St Kilda

St Kilda is defined by two main strips, Fitzroy Street and Acland Street, with the famous St Kilda Esplanade providing a pleasant link between the two. While Fitzroy Street is all retail shops, gyms and fancy restaurants, Acland is a haven for cake lovers . The cake shops and bakeries lining the street have been making Melbourne a sweeter place since 1934, and are still serving up Eastern European classics thick and fast: make sure you try the plain cheesecake from Europa Cake Shop , the vanilla slice at Le Bon Continental Cake Shop and the chocolate Kugelhaumpf at Monarch .

12.  Throw yourself in the cells at the Old Melbourne Gaol

This historical building is a monument to the bad old days of capital punishment, with most people visiting here to see the somewhat gruesome  armour and death mask of notorious Aussie outlaw Ned Kelly. But there's plenty else to see and do in this fascinating, creepy old place. Ex plore the gaol, experience a modern-day arrest procedure and stand in the dock of the Old Magistrate's Court. The gaol first opened in 1845, which means it's one of the oldest buildings in Melbourne. Unsurprisingly, a building this old, where 133 people were hung, has its fair share of ghost stories - and the Old Melbourne Gaol regularly hosts tours.

13.  Explore the historic Abbotsford Convent

You can feel the weight of the past as soon as you step into the grounds and look up to the gothic spires of the Abbotsford Convent. The complex began as a convent in the late 1800s and was also a commercial laundry, orphanage and aged care facility. These days, it’s a hub for artists, makers, community radio broadcasters and teachers – as well as a beautiful place to explore. Check out the work of local artists in the galleries, then roam the green hills and gardens.

14.  Imbibe some culture at National Gallery of Victoria

The National Gallery of Victoria is made up of two venues - the NGV International and NGV Australia. Both are impressive spaces, filled with world-class art, so you could easily while away an entire day at each. The International's permanent collections include a Rembrandt, a Bonnard and a Tiepolo, plus a much-loved water wall at the entrance. Over at Fed Square, the Ian Potter Centre houses art from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians from the colonial era to the current day.

15.  Go retro on Brunswick Street

Melbourne’s famed alternative side is in full force in  Fitzroy , the city-centre hub of all things hip and kooky. Wandering up Brunswick Street, Fitzroy’s main strip, you'll be confronted by everything from trendy bike shops and cool hairdressers, to second-hand bookshops and hometown fashion heroes such as Gorman , Búl ,  Kloke and Alpha 60 . It's the vintage clothes stores, though, that Brunswick is most celebrated for. Pre-loved clothing specialists like Hunter Gatherer and Vintage Sole are just a few of the spots to head for that new leather bag, pair of vintage slacks or ripper denim jacket from the '80s you've been after forever. 

16.  Wander around the Royal Exhibition Building

The Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens is one of the world's oldest remaining exhibition pavilions (and was the first building in Australia to be named on the UNESCO Heritage List). Aside from having a fascinating history, the REB is drop-dead gorgeous inside and out. Swing by to snap the façade any time (try getting a pic from in front of the fountain or from in between the many tree-lined pathways nearby). 

17.  Check out all six floors of Curtin House

If you do one thing in Melbourne, we recommend hitting the extremely Melbourne Curtin House on Swanston Street. This six-storey vertical lane houses some of Melbourne's most interesting tenants. There's Metropolis specialist bookshop , Human Salon the hairdresser, bar/restaurants Cookie and Mesa Verde , high fashion mavens Dot Comme , the swanky bar and band room at the Toff in Town , and Melbourne's crowning glory Rooftop Bar right at the top. Visitors can practically get the full Melbourne experience without setting foot outside the building.

18.  Hunt out Melbourne's hidden bars

Fact: Melbourne does hidden bars like no other city. And yes, sorry to all the Melburnians reading this, but we're about to reveal some of our underground drinking secrets. We've got one behind a fridge door ( Jungle Boy ) and a bookshelf ( Loch and Key ), a secret rooftop bar above a Chinese restaurant ( Goldilocks ) and in a basement at the end of an alley ( Beneath Driver Lane ). Sure, it might feel more like a scavenger hunt than a night out hunting these places out but,  for a drink with a difference,  it's definitely worth it.

19.  Let your hair down in Chinatown

Melbourne's Chinatown district was first established back in the 1850s  during the Victorian gold rush era , making it the longest continuous Chinese settlement in the western world. As such, it's also the oldest Chinatown in the southern hemisphere. This vibrant quarter of town is lined with karaoke bars, duty-free stores and so many fantastic little restaurants, that it's hard to know which one to choose. Located along Little Bourke Street and its surrounding lanes and streets, we recommend dumplings at Shanghai Village, mains at Supper Inn , and desserts at Secret Kitchen . 

20.  Ride along the Yarra Trail

• Port Melbourne

Itching for a new adventure? Saddle up and explore the city on two wheels. We recommend the easy-ish ride along the Yarra Trail. Starting in Eltham, this trail is a pretty satisfying 22-kilometre ride towards Fairfield that follows the flow of the Yarra. It’s flat most of the way with loads of leafy corridors to pass through. Closer to the city the trail is sealed and your necessary pit stops include the Heide Museum of Modern Art and the colonial-era Fairfield Boathouse for some scones.

21.  Expand your mind at Melbourne Museum

A glorious, sprawling space filled with themed displays, interactive areas, IMAX cinemas, postmodern art and no end of surprises, Melbourne Museum rewards first-time visitors and repeat patrons equally. For recent initiates, the sheer scope of the permanent galleries (including one just for children) can be intimidating, but for those who aren't intent on digesting it all on one visit, the greatest treasures – including Phar Lap’s preserved body and a fascinating exploration of the history of mental health treatment in Australia – can be taken in over several visits.

22.  Go on a road trip on the Great Ocean Road

Head southwest from Geelong and you’ll soon see it: the faded log arch announcing your arrival at the Great Ocean Road. Sandwiched between dense coastal eucalypt forests and the ocean, the road is one of the most spectacular drives in Australia. Technically the road starts just outside of Torquay but the best ocean vistas happen between Airey’s Inlet and Apollo Bay , where you’ll drive right along the precipice of the coastal cliffs. There are regular opportunities to stop at beaches and koala sightings are not uncommon. Travel off-season to avoid crowds – the road is just as great in the cooler months.

23.  Go penguin spotting at Phillip Island

• Wimbledon Heights

A two-and-a-half-hour trip from Melbourne is  Phillip Island : a chunk of coastal heaven famed for its penguins and seals. The craggy shoreline is broken up by numerous beaches perfect for swimming, surfing and seal watching: there are more seals living on the island than humans. However, giving the seals a run for their money in the cute stakes are Phillip Island’s Little Penguins. Every night, like clockwork, you can watch the tiny penguins come ashore at Summerland beach and march like little, feathery soldiers into their sandy burrows.

24.  Meet the animals at Melbourne Zoo

Australia’s oldest zoo is an inner-city oasis that's home to hundreds of creatures great and small, housed in lovingly cared for, stimulating environments. Watch seals and penguins gliding through blue water in the Wild Sea exhibit, then head to the sprawling Orangutan Sanctuary, where a family of intelligent orang-utans swing from tree to tree. And don't miss the Trail of the Elephants; an immersive Southeast Asian village and garden where you can learn about and see the gentle giants up close.

25.  Take in the sights and shops of Lygon Street

There are so many things to love about Carlton’s famous strip, which has long been Melbourne’s Little Italy. Gone are the irritating restaurant touters; these days it's all about top-notch bars and eateries like Heartattack and Vine and Milk the Cow , pizza at DOC or Tiamo . Culture-lovers flock to Cinema Nova , the huge Readings Bookstore and independent theatre La Mama .

26.  Immerse yourself in digital art at the Lume

• South Wharf

The Lume is a cutting-edge digital gallery and immersive art space created by Melbourne's Grande Experiences permanently located within the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre .  Instead of looking at paintings on walls or sculptures on plinths, art is projected onto the walls to make you feel like you've stepped inside the paintings themselves.  The popular digital gallery's current exhibition is titled Connection , and features  First Peoples art and culture.

27.  Rock out at a live gig

Melbourne is not only Australia's live music capital, it's also the   best city in the world for live music   with 553 live music venues in 2018 (that's one for every 9,500 Melburnians). Cherry Bar has now reopened in Boney's old location and there are plenty of other haunts to check out. The Tote , the Gaso and the Corner Hotel are some of the best live music pubs, while the Toff in Town is great for a boogie. We even have   a healthy population of slick jazz clubs . 

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36 Hours in Melbourne, Australia

By Tacey Rychter Updated Nov. 30, 2023

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Melbourne, long seen as Australia’s second city, is runner-up no more after officially edging past Sydney in population for the first time in more than a century. But if Sydney is the extroverted showboat full of grand gestures (opera house! beaches!), arts- and food-loving Melbourne plays it cool. Visitors will discover odd and wonderful surprises, sometimes hidden in the laneways (or alleys), including spaces like a church caretaker’s cottage turned cocktail bar or a limestone art gallery tucked amid rustling gum trees. Get swept up in the city’s sports obsession at the Australian Open in January, as well as its coffee addiction: Knowing the lingo — like the difference between a magic (a smaller, stronger flat white) and a long black (double espresso poured over hot water) — is just one way to get a dose of Melbourne’s leisure-loving culture.

Recommendations

• Caretaker’s Cottage , a cocktail bar in a former church caretaker’s quarters, has exceptionally warm hospitality and freezer-cold martinis.
• Heide Museum of Modern Art , an art museum and a sculpture park, feels like a secret piece of bushland northeast of the city.
• National Gallery of Victoria , better known as the NGV, is Australia’s most visited museum, with walls made of bluestone, the same volcanic rock used to pave Melbourne’s cobblestone streets.
• Manzé is a Mauritian restaurant and natural wine bar that amps up flavors with fruity, fermented chile sauces and spiced chutneys.
• Soi 38 is a Thai-street-food kitchen hidden in a parking garage.
• Thai Baan draws diners to line up for its boat noodles, a Thai dish with a dark, aromatic broth originally sold by vendors in canals.
• One or Two , down an alley in Chinatown, is a welcoming cocktail den that offers a brief respite from the city.
• Stalactites is a long-standing Greek restaurant where families and late-night revelers come together for the love of a midnight souvlaki.
• Cathedral Coffee is a cafe by day, wine bar by night in a historic arcade in the city.
• Gimlet at Cavendish House , with its charming, light-filled dining room, is the kind of place where you can order lobster, caviar or a late-night cheeseburger.
• ShanDong MaMa is a mother-and-daughter-run dumpling house in a Chinatown shopping arcade.
• American Doughnut Kitchen , a food van parked at the Queen Victoria Market, is where your obsession with hot jam doughnuts begins.
• Pidapipó is a popular, neon-lit gelateria with seasonal flavors, warm Nutella on tap and gorgeous gelato cakes in the fridge.
• Cibi is a Japanese cafe, design store and grocer in a sunny warehouse space.
• Royal Botanic Gardens sprawls over 94 acres just south of the Yarra River, with green lawns, a rainforest walk, lakes and a new arid garden . There is also an open-air cinema in the summer.
• Museum of Chinese Australian History is a small, four-story museum in a former furniture warehouse in Chinatown.
• The Forum is a beloved live-music hall in a grand and slightly bizarre-looking 1920s cinema palace.
• Northcote Theater , which opened in the inner-north neighborhood last year, is another ornate former cinema transformed into a live-music space.
• Alpha60 , a Melbourne brother-and-sister fashion label, has a stunning shop in a cathedral-like hall in the Chapter House building on Flinders Lane.
• Craft Victoria is a subterranean gallery and shop that shows experimental ceramics, textiles and fashion pieces from Australian designers.
• Queen Victoria Market , open since 1878 and encompassing 17 acres, is the city’s favorite food market. There is also a summer street-food market on Wednesday nights.
• Books for Cooks is a home cook’s dream, with thousands of new and secondhand cookbooks, food memoirs and culinary histories lining its shelves.
• Readings is a much loved independent chain of bookstores that spotlights Australian literature and nonfiction.
• Nicholas Building is a 1926 landmark whose 10 floors have been taken over by creative tenants, including tattooists, tailors, milliners, clairvoyants, booksellers and jewelers.
• United Places , a luxury boutique hotel in the South Yarra neighborhood, offers a sleek spin on Brutalist architecture, offset by the lush green of the Royal Botanic Gardens at its doorstep. Its 12 suites have textured concrete walls, rain showers and private terraces. One- and two-bedroom suites available, starting from 695 Australian dollars, or about $460.
• QT Melbourne , recognizable from the outside by its reflective copper double doors, is a 188-room hotel whose striped, gold-accented and neon lobby encapsulates its quirky industrial vibe and maximalist décor. Its central location is unbeatable for convenience. Rooms from about 300 dollars.
• Zagame’s House , a once faded motel that was gutted and modernized, has 97 rooms with dark tones and gold accents. The hotel is a few minutes’ walk from both the city center and the lush Carlton Gardens, popular for its green lawns and the grand Royal Exhibition Building . Rooms from about 229 dollars.
• For short-term rentals , the city center has listings for mostly modern, boxy condo apartments. You’re more likely to find homes with more character, and to get the flavor of local life, in suburbs like Fitzroy, East Melbourne, Richmond, South Yarra and South Melbourne.
• Melbourne’s train network is safe and easy to use, although services are minimal after midnight. Trams are slower but may drop you off closer to your destination. Both require a physical or digital Myki card before you board (although trams are free in the city center ). Be warned: Inspectors are vigilant and hand out fines of up to 288 dollars for traveling without a valid ticket. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and the Chinese-owned DiDi are available.

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Have a weekend to explore a destination we’ve got the perfect travel itinerary..

Paris: A different side of the French capital reveals smaller museums, under-the-radar spots in Montmartre and a diverse performance scene .

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Glasgow:  Take in Gothic architecture, green riverside walks and a global banquet  in Scotland’s largest city.

Chicago:   ​​ Cycle miles of urban trails, tour a restored Frank Lloyd Wright masterwork and catch golden hour  along Lake Michigan.

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Places to Visit in Melbourne

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places in Melbourne

Eureka Tower Melbourne (Melbourne Skydeck)

Standing at a height of 297 meters, Eureka Tower Melbourne is the tallest residential and public vantage point located in the Southern Hemisphere. Featuring the highest observation deck in Melbourne, the Eureka Tower offers surreal views of the entire city covered in twinkling lights during the evening. Visitors can also take the thrilling experience of walking on a glass cub called The Edge.

Top Experiences To Do in Eureka Tower Melbourne (Melbourne Skydeck)

Luna Park Melbourne

Melbourne’s iconic Luna Park, renowned as the city’s oldest amusement park, is among the top attractions that are frequented by thrill-seekers from across the world. With more than a century of expertise, Luna Park, which dates back to 1912, houses rides and thrills designed to cater to visitors of all ages and preferences. From roller coasters to motion simulators, the park offers classic family entertainment with its state-of-the-art attractions.

Top Experiences To Do in Luna Park Melbourne

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is an interactive and immersive experience of discovering the fantastic aquatic world unfolding in front of your eyes. It showcases over 10000 marine animals in 12 different themed zones hailing from the Southern Ocean and Antarctic Regions. Visitors can explore the different exhibits of these aquatic animals and indulge in feeding activities to learn more about these beautiful creatures

Top Experiences To Do in Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Healesville Sanctuary

Witness the magic of Australia’s unique wildlife come alive at Healesville Sanctuary, one of Melbourne’s most loved tourist destinations. From iconic wild inhabitants like kangaroos and koalas to numerous species that are threatened with extinction, Healesville Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of animal and bird species. Meet native species in their natural habitats and interact with their knowledgeable keepers as you explore and quench your curiosities at Healesville Sanctuary.

Top Experiences To Do in Healesville Sanctuary

Yarra Valley, Melbourne

The name ‘Yarra Valley’ denotes the region on the upper bank of the Yarra River in Victoria, Australia. Located to the east of the Melbourne central business district, the valley lies across the river banks stretching towards the Port Phillip Bay and it is one of the best places to visit in Melbourne.

The region is endowed with myriads of natural treasures- from bushlands to ocean fronts, high deserts, and acres after acres of mesmerizingly beautiful vineyards. Owing to the natural features, agricultural produce, as well as the picture-perfect Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail, the valley attracts a large number of weekenders and day-trippers from around Melbourne.

The valley is also a fast-growing wine country, with several vintages and thriving new wineries offering Cellar Door facilities within its perimeters. The area enjoys year-round cool and salubrious temperatures, making it apt for the production of premium-quality chardonnay, pinot noir, and sparkling wine.

Matching up to the quality of premium wines, the food culture too is of note in the Yarra Valley. It is extremely rewarding to discover and share the regional passion for food with multitudes of fresh produce sourced from all corners of the Valley.

In the diverse landscape of the Yarra Valley, you can trek your way up gentle slopes strung with vineyards, stop by for a meditative moment in the secluded ravines across the blue mountains, stroll through forests of conifers, or dip your feet in the sea. Idyllic little villages like Marysville and Warburton make for perfect rest stops, while the diverse wildlife parks bring you close to the endemic Australian fauna.

Top Experiences To Do in Yarra Valley, Melbourne

Peninsula Hot Springs

Peninsula Hot Springs is an award-winning natural hot spring and day spa destination located on the outskirts of Melbourne. Rejuvenate your body and mind as you enjoy an exclusive bathing and spa experience at the Mornington Peninsula. From bathing and spa options inspired by the world’s sought-after practices to wellness programmes that heal and relax, Peninsula Hot Springs is a must-visit Melbourne attraction.

Top Experiences To Do in Peninsula Hot Springs

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Melbourne Cricket Ground has witnessed the greatest sporting legends create history in cricket, rugby, football, and other major sports. Located in Melbourne’s Yarra Park, Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is among the city’s most renowned tourist attractions and hosts seasonal cricket and football matches. The magnificence of the grounds, its century-old history, and easy accessibility make it one of Melbourne’s most visited tourist destinations.

Top Experiences To Do in Melbourne Cricket Ground

Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

If you haven’t been to Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne, renowned for its 140+ years of heritage, you have missed out on an iconic experience in Australia. Famous as the most prominent fresh produce market in the nation, the lively marketplace stretches over two blocks housing more than 600 stores. From fresh veggies and fruits to street food, clothes, souvenirs, and live entertainment, Queen Victoria Market has everything you can imagine.

Top Experiences To Do in Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

Best of Sydney

iFly Melbourne

iFly Melbourne is an indoor skydiving experience where the dream of flying becomes a reality. This attraction offers an opportunity to fall in love with the freedom and sensation of floating in the air. It is an adventurous free-fall experience without the need for jumping out of the plane. The vertical wind tunnel creates a wall-to-wall cushion of air that ensures safe floating without any parachute.

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child Melbourne

Experience the magic of Harry Potter and The Cursed Child at Princess Theatre, Melbourne. This enchanting play, a hit on Broadway, draws tourists, especially Potter fans. Enhance your Australia trip with an evening of spellbinding adventure and savor delicious Australian cuisines at Nomad restaurant.

Escape Room

Australia’s first live puzzle game awaits you and fellow adventurers at Escape Room Melbourne, among the city’s most popular escape room experiences. Escape Room Melbourne stands a notch above other escape rooms in the city due to the intense psychological thrills it offers in its new rooms. Solve puzzles and find clues in 70 minutes to ace the challenges of Escape Room Melbourne.

Flinders Street Railway Station

Flinders Street Railway Station, Melbourne's iconic landmark, is the oldest and fourth-largest train station in Australia. With its distinctive green copper dome, yellow facade, arched entrance, clocks, and towers, it's a must-see. Explore the rich history and stories of the metropolitan rail network. Enhance your visit with Australia travel packages for a comprehensive experience.

St Paul's Cathedral Melbourne

St. Paul’s Cathedral is an Anglican church that serves as a peaceful place of worship with a colorful and diverse community of members from over 25 nations. The church serves as an official residence of the Archbishop of Melbourne that attracts over 400000 tourists to enjoy peace in the loving presence of God. Constructed in sandstone, this architectural masterpiece combines Decorative Gothic and Early English styles.

National Gallery Of Victoria

Explore a paradise for art enthusiasts at the National Gallery of Victoria, Australia’s oldest and most renowned public art museum, which should be on your radar when considering Australia tour packages. From works on indigenous Pacific cultures to artworks from ancient Egypt, Rome, and Greece, the museum’s massive collection is sure to captivate visitors. Witness priceless decorative arts, drawings, paintings, fashion and textile exhibits, sculptures, furniture pieces, and photography at the National Gallery of Victoria, making it a cultural highlight for those embarking on Australia tour packages .

Royal Botanical Gardens Melbourne

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is one of the most stunning green spaces and a treasured part of heritage rich city of Australia. Garnering the interest of over 1900000 visitors annually, this garden offers remarkable vistas with diverse plant collections and tranquil lakes. You will come across different collections of plant species in this garden that provides a fantastic precinct for exploration.

Federation Square

Visit Melbourne’s most happening public square, Federation Square, which is renowned as one of the world’s best public squares. An architectural masterpiece, Federation Square has nine structures that host the greatest gatherings of the square. From tourist attractions like the National Gallery of Victoria to restaurants, speciality stores and bars, Federation Square hosts Melbourne’s greatest events and attractions throughout the year.

Best of London

Melbourne Zoo

Commonly known as the Melbourne Zoo, the Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens is the oldest zoo of Australia. Established on 6th of October 1862, this phenomenal zoo is home to a large variety of animal, bird and reptile species. Located just five minutes away from the city center, this popular zoo is inspired by the London zoo and is the perfect place to learn about animals. 

The zoo also has a large schools section and caters to many school visitors throughout the year.

Top Experiences To Do in Melbourne Zoo

Puffing Billy Railway

Located in the Dandenong Ranges, Puffing Billy Railway is a premier preserved steam railway in Australia that provides visitors a chance to witness a timeless world of wonder. Constructed in 1900, this railway is the fundamental tourist attraction in Melbourne that welcomes visitors to come and experience nostalgia, animated adventure, or cultural enjoyment of the centuries-old tradition throughout the year.

Top Experiences To Do in Puffing Billy Railway

St kilda beach.

St Kilda Beach ranks as Melbourne’s most visited beach and is the ultimate destination for tourists who wish to spend a day in the balmy breeze and sands of the seashore. With white sands and numerous water-based adventures, St Kilda Beach offers amazing shopping and dining opportunities for visitors looking for a ‘local’ experience. Renowned for its penguin sightings, the beach offers stunning views of the ocean waters and Melbourne’s skyline.

Melbourne Museum

The Melbourne Museum, the largest museum in the Southern Hemisphere, definitely needs to be on your itinerary. From prehistoric remains to insights into Australian pop culture, the Museum is a storehouse of everything that has shaped modern Australia. One of Melbourne’s popular destinations, explore the fascinating exhibits and tours of the Melbourne Museum that bring to life the rich cultural traditions of the nation.

Crown Melbourne

With some of the best views of the iconic Yarra Valley and luxurious five-star services and accommodations, Crown Melbourne ranks among the most renowned attractions of the city. Crown Melbourne holds the unique reputation of being the first casino in the city, and today boasts being a worldwide brand that offers visitors unmatched hotel, spa, restaurant, casino, and entertainment experiences and highly professional services.

Royal Exhibition Building

Dating back to 1879, the Royal exhibition building is one of the oldest places to visit in Melbourne which still hosts exhibitions. With its grand architecture and beautiful interior, this place is a go-to spot for photography enthusiasts and history buffs.

Shrine Of Remembrance

Take a walk down the lanes of history as you visit the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia. One of the city’s popular tourist attractions, the Shrine of Remembrance pays homage to the hundreds of soldiers of Australia who lost their lives during the First World War. Among the biggest war memorials in the country, the shrine offers a glimpse into historical events through its exhibition, museum, and educational activities.

Old Melbourne Gaol

Old Melbourne Gaol is a building in Victoria that once consisted of the most notorious criminals, including the outlaw and infamous bushranger Ned Kelly and gangster Squizzy Taylor. It is now one of the ancient preserved structures that has been transformed into a museum dedicated to the past of criminals. Visitors are attracted to this tourist destination to understand how men and women lived and died in imprisonment.

Best of Australia

Chinatown, Melbourne

Get a glimpse of Asia’s rich cultural and food heritage at Melbourne’s Chinatown, which ranks as one of the most unique and crowded tourist hotspots in the city. Established by Chinese immigrants, Chinatown transports you to a classic marketplace of Asia where you can indulge in delicious street food, witness art and history come alive at exhibitions and museums, experience theatre, drama and music, and shop till you drop.

Collins Street

Collins Street stands out as a premier destination in Melbourne, seamlessly blending classic luxury and contemporary allure. Located in the heart of the central business district, this iconic street embodies a rich fusion of global brands, diverse business cooperatives, and local creatives. For those embarking on an Australia tour, a visit to Collins Street is a must, offering an exclusive glimpse into Melbourne's sophisticated lifestyle. Wander through luxury retail stores, indulge in world-class dining, experience premium accommodations, enjoy top-notch entertainment, and witness the bustling activity around the primary business headquarters, making Collins Street a singular tie to the essence of Melbourne's cosmopolitan charm.

If recreation is what you seek, head to the banks of Melbourne’s Yarra river for a memorable day out at Southbank. Southbank offers stunning views of skyscrapers and houses major attractions like Crown Melbourne, Victorian Art Centre, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, and much more. Hop on river cruises or simply embark on shopping, art and food tours on your Southbank visit.

South Melbourne Market

Immerse yourself in Australian culture at South Melbourne Market, a must-visit in Melbourne. Known as the 'local village market,' it showcases organically produced groceries, spices, seafood, and local merchandise. Experience local flavors at cafes and restaurants and enjoy live cultural entertainment. Enhance your trip with Australia packages .

Enchanted Adventure

Venture into the heart of nature at Enchanted Adventure in Arthurs Seat, Australia. With 25 acres of verdant landscapes to explore, this award-winning attraction delivers thrills through its unique mazes, exciting Tube Slides, and daring Tree Surfing adventures. The park offers over 20 themed gardens with distinctive sculptures and puzzles, thus promising an unforgettable adventure for both adults and children alike.

Maru Koala and Animal Park

Maru Koala and Animal Park is a captivating wildlife haven located in Grantville, Victoria.

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach in Melbourne is a picturesque coastal gem, renowned for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere.

Top Experiences To Do in Brighton Beach

Melbourne Central

Discover the vibrant heart of Melbourne at Melbourne Central. Explore its iconic architecture, diverse shopping, and gourmet dining options. Plan your Australia tour packages for an unforgettable experience in this cultural hub.

Best of Gold Coast

Immigration Museum

Housed in the Old Customs House, the Immigration Museum showcases the diverse customs of Australian immigrants from the 19th century. Explore exhibits depicting the lifestyles of early settlers and delve into your family's history through the museum's immigrant archive. Enhance your experience with Australia tour packages.

People Also Ask About Melbourne

Which are the best cultural places in melbourne, which are the best places to stay in melbourne, which are the romantic places to visit in melbourne, how can we spend 2 days in melbourne, what is melbourne famous for, what is the best time to visit melbourne, which are the best tourist places to visit in melbourne, which are the best adventurous activities in melbourne that we can book via thrillophilia, which are the best day tours in melbourne that i can book from thrillophilia, which are the best melbourne attractions tickets that i can buy from thrillophiilia, how to reach melbourne.

• By Flights : Melbourne has interconnecting flights to almost all national capitals. Once you reach Melbourne airport you can get across the city by booking a taxi or accessing your accommodation’s shuttle services.
• By Sky bus : Another fun way to travel across Melbourne is on SkyBus. This is very reasonable and has stoppages across all destinations in the city.  Skybus will drop you at Spencer street station and from there on, you will have to select your own travel mode like trains, buses, taxis, and tram to reach your ultimate tourist places to visit in Melbourne.
• By Train : The NSW TrainLink XPT connects Melbourne to Sydney, and the Overland trains will get you to Adelaide and Perth if you want to ride the train.

How many days are enough to explore Melbourne?

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30 Awesome Things To Do in Melbourne in 2024

Looking for things to do in Melbourne? Whether it’s your first time or you’ve visited the city dozens of times, I’ve got you covered.

Ah, Melbourne. My beautiful hometown. Cool cafes, art galleries, amazing dining and drinking, a vibrant music scene – all of this gives Melbourne its nickname as the “ culture capital of Australia ”.

There’s a LOT to do here.

If you’ve read my Melbourne bucket list , you’ll know that there’s enough to keep you busy here for a few days,  a week  or even a month.

But I don’t want to overwhelm you. So I’ve narrowed down the list to 30 of my favourite things to do in Melbourne, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems to where to eat and shop.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

Map of Melbourne things to do

To help you plan your itinerary, here are all the Melbourne attractions I’ve listed in this article plotted out on a map. If you want a paper map, pick up a free copy from the visitor centre at Federation Square or in the Bourke St Mall.

Top things to do in Melbourne

With so much to do in Melbourne, here are my top 30 recommendations for the absolute must-dos when you visit. Whenever anyone visits me and asks me where to go in Melbourne, these are the things I always suggest. These are the things I do over and over again in the city.

1. Go hunting for street art

It’s in Melbourne’s laneways that you’ll also stumble upon some very cool  Melbourne street art  plastered over the walls. Some of the world’s most famous street artists have marked Melbourne’s laneways with their work.

And even if you’ve wandered Melbourne’s laneways before and think you’ve been there, done that, you haven’t. The walls change regularly as artists paint over existing pieces, creating new things to see in Melbourne on an almost weekly basis.

The best places to see Melbourne street art ? Hosier Lane, Caledonian Lane, ACDC Lane, Degraves Street and Union Lane.

You can also take a street art tour. One of the best Melbourne tours is a walking street art tour with an actual street artist. When I took this tour, my guide showed us art that he’d done himself. You can book the Melbourne Street Art tour online here or try this tour in Fitzroy .

Pro tip: Hosier Lane is always crowded (as you can see from my pic above), and particularly so on weekends when hordes of people come through to snap photos of what’s now considered one of the most popular Melbourne tourist attractions. Visit early, or head out of the central business district (CBD) to check out the street art in Fitzroy where there are fewer people.

2. Get lost in laneways and arcades

Melbourne’s city centre is well-ordered and the grid system makes it easy to get around.

But it’s worth getting lost in Melbourne’s laneways which twist and turn and are home to a secret world of restaurants, bars, cafes, art galleries and boutique clothing stores – and street art. You can easily while away several hours wandering, watching and eating.

As well as interesting laneways, we have beautiful arcades that date back to the late 1800s.

Royal Arcade is the oldest in Melbourne and its high, domed ceilings are worth a look. On the hour, you can watch and hear Gog and Magog (statues of two mythical giants) strike the chimes.

The Block Arcade is also worth a stroll to admire the ornate floors. Stop for afternoon high tea at the Hopetoun Tea Rooms – or just salivate at the window. If you can’t get a seat, make do with bag of the delicious chocolate frogs from Haighs.

3. Eat your way around the world

There aren’t just hundreds of things to see in Melbourne, there are hundreds of places to eat . And eating should play a big role in any Melbourne itinerary (FYI, I’ve got guides to a weekend in Melbourne , 3 days in Melbourne and 5 days in Melbourne ). Melbourne is renowned for its food scene, and in this city you can find pretty much any cuisine you’re after.

From gourmet pub food, to Thai and Vietnamese, to Ethiopian, to American barbecue, to Greek, to Pakistani, to homestyle cooking and everything else in between – you name it, we have it.

We’ve also got something for everyone’s budget, from cheap eats to cover-your-eyes-when-you-sign-the-credit-card-bill fine dining.

You can read my (constantly updated) recommendations for where to eat in Melbourne where I highlight the best Melbourne restaurants.

If you’d like to join a foodie tour of Melbourne , check out this 4-hour walking food and culture tour .

4. Grab a pub meal

Speaking of food, there’s nothing more Australian than grabbing a pub meal.

A classic Aussie pub meal is a chicken parmigiana, or a parma (not a parmi!). A piece of chicken is flattened and smothered with tomato sauce, sometimes ham and always plenty of cheese. And always served with chips.

Whatever tempts your tastebuds, pubs (or “boozers”) are where the locals hang out, so they’re the best places to visit to appreciate Melburnian local life.

The best boozers can be found outside of the CBD, especially in the inner suburbs of Fitzroy and Collingwood. Here, the pubs are unpretentious and usually have a reputation for great food.

My personal faves are the  Union Club Hotel , the  Napier , the  Standard  or the  Rose . I’m also a huge fan of the food at the Marquis of Lorne – try the potato cakes.

For something a bit fancier, the Builders Arms Hotel is under the helm of celebrity chef Andrew McConnell – but you’ll still find classic comfort meals.

5. Check out the bar scene

If a pub’s not really your scene, don’t worry. Melbourne is awash with cocktail bars and rooftop bars, and you’ll have plenty of choices when deciding where to go out in Melbourne.

In the city, check out Rooftop Bar (aptly on a rooftop), Beneath Driver Lane (in a basement), or Chuckle Park (down a laneway).

In the Fitzroy/Collingwood area, I love the classy prohibition vibe of The Everleigh , the Black Pearl is a neighbourhood staple, and Naked in the Sky is great for the views.

Don’t know where to begin? Join this hidden bar tour to discover some of the best bars in Melbourne, or on this boozy history tour you’ll learn about history with a drink in hand.

6. Go neighbourhood-hopping

A lot of Melbourne’s best things to do can be found in the CBD. But the CBD is also busy and it’s not where most Melburnians live .

On your visit to Melbourne, make some time to get out of the CBD and explore a few of Melbourne’s neighbourhoods .

Smith Street in Collingwood (recently voted the coolest street in the world ), Brunswick Street in Fitzroy , High Street in Northcote, Lygon Street (the Brunswick East end), Sydney Road in Brunswick, Swan Street in Richmond, Fitzroy Street in St Kilda, and Carlisle Street in Balaclava are all great spots to grab a bite, go shopping and people-watch.

7. Explore the Queen Vic Market

The  Queen Victoria Market  is Melbourne’s most famous market. While it’s a market that locals shop at – here you can buy everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to cheese and quince paste to seafood – it’s also an iconic Melbourne attraction to explore.

Must-try foods are the piping-hot jam donuts from the American Doughnut Kitchen and the gooey cheese toasties from Ripe.

Simply wander the alleyways, stopping for samples and buying snacks, or join a food tour. I love the Ultimate Foodie Tour . It’s a great way to learn more about the market and its vendors and, most importantly, eat your way through the best stores. (Come hungry – I was stuffed by the end of this awesome Melbourne walking tour !)

For souvenir shopping, focus your efforts on the cute shops in String Bean Alley.

If you’re in town on a Wednesday night, check out the night markets . The summer and winter markets are packed with street food vendors, live music and drinks. There are also specialty festivals most weekends, usually focusing on different cuisines from around the world.

8. See a band at an iconic music venue

Melbourne is known for its music culture, and you can catch both up-and-coming and well-known bands at venues like the  Corner Hotel , the  Tote , and the  Northcote Social Club .

Sticky carpet included.

Many have cheap or even free live music throughout the week. (Read more cheap things to do in Melbourne to help save you money.)

For big-name bands, the Forum Melbourne is right in the CBD. This iconic music venue has hosted everyone from Ozzy Osbourne to Harry Styles to Madonna. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but the interior is stunning.

9. Learn about First Nations culture

Australia is home to the oldest living culture on the planet, and you don’t even need to leave the city to learn more about Indigenous Australia.

One of the best Melbourne tours to take is the Aboriginal Heritage Walk at the Royal Botanic Gardens. The tour starts with a traditional welcoming ceremony, then, over 90 minutes, you’ll spend time with an Indigenous guide learning about traditional uses of trees and plants for medicine, food and tools.

It’s also a chance to learn more about First Nations’ connection to the land, and have a yarn about culture, history and modern-day challenges facing Aboriginal people in Australia. In my opinion, this is a tour that international visitors and Australians alike should take.

The Koorie Heritage Trust also runs an hour-long tour around Fed Square and along Birrarung Marr. This organisation works toward bridging the gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people and raising awareness and appreciation of Aboriginal culture.

At the Melbourne Museum , check out the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre . There are permanent exhibitions as well as temporary exhibits that showcase the vibrant Indigenous culture.

Keen to learn more? This guide to Indigenous Melbourne has many more ways to deepen your knowledge of Aboriginal culture and history.

10. Visit a museum

You could easily spend days in Melbourne exploring just the museums. Many of them are also free – and if you’re on a budget in Melbourne, then check out my guide to the best free things to do in Melbourne .

In addition to the Melbourne Museum (which has extensive exhibits about the city’s history and is one of the best things to do in Melbourne with kids ), check out the following:

• NGV International – Melbourne’s signature museum, the National Gallery of Victoria is free (although special exhibits sometimes have an entrance fee)
• Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia – The sister museum to the NGV International, this is where you’ll find Australian art
• Immigration Museum – Explore the history of Australian immigration in the former Customs House building
• ACMI – This is one of the top Melbourne attractions, you can spend the day watching TV here!

You can also read my full guide to the many museums Melbourne has to offer.

11. Grab a coffee

Melbourne is renowned for its coffee. You can easily get into an animated conversation in this city about the right way to drink coffee, where to drink coffee and where to buy your beans. So, while you’re in Melbourne, try some.

We even have our own coffee, a Magic. It’s rarely on a coffee shop menu, so you have to be in the know. It’s basically a strong ristretto.

Confession: I don’t drink coffee. Never have, never will (and that doesn’t make me less of a Melburnian!).

In any case, I asked around for some recommendations for the best coffee shops in Melbourne, and the responses consistently came back as Proud Mary’s , Brother Baba Budan , Seven Seeds and St Ali . They’re just a handful of the best places to visit in Melbourne to get good coffee – there are dozens more.

This walking tour covers cafes and culture in the CBD, visiting four popular coffee houses.

12. Ride a tram

I felt a bit silly including this here, because trams are a common mode of transport for Melburnians. So it might seem funny to include this as something you must do when you visit Melbourne.

BUT, if you’re from a city that doesn’t have trams (and that’s most cities around the world…), then riding a tram is a pretty novel thing to do and something you must do in Melbourne.

While our trams aren’t as historic as the ones in, say, San Francisco, they’re often the easiest way to get around the city. You can check out a tram map online or download the Public Transport Victoria app. You’ll need a Myki card to ride a tram, except in the free tram zone, which covers the CBD and some inner parts of the city.

The City Circle Tram network is free all the time and the perfect transport for Melbourne sightseeing. These heritage trams pass all the major Melbourne attractions with bonus commentary, so they’re also a good way to orient yourself with the city.

13. Check out Federation Square

Fed Square is a great hub for visitors and one of Melbourne’s points of interest.

It’s close to Flinders Street Station, the city’s main train station – which is also worth a gander for its architecture.

Fed Square is also stuffed with museums, restaurants and bars, and on most weekends there’s a concert or event or exhibition here, so you can rest your weary feet while being entertained. During major sporting events like the Australian Open, seats are set up so you can watch the matches on the huge TV screen.

I highly recommend checking out The Ian Potter Centre (Australian art), the Koorie Heritage Trust and ACMI , all located at Fed Square.

14. View the grandeur of the State Library

During the Victorian gold rush of the 1850s and 1860s, a lot of money poured into Melbourne, which resulted in extraordinary investment in architecture.

One of the most beautiful buildings in Melbourne is our State Library . It’s just undergone a huge renovation, and it’s definitely worth your time to pop in here for a look.

Check out the photogenic La Trobe Reading Room and recently reopened Queen’s Hall. You can also view Ned Kelly’s armour in the Victoria Gallery, and Australian art in the Cowan Gallery. Or just take some time out in one of the best places to go in Melbourne for some peace and quiet.

If you’d like to learn more about the library, there are free tours throughout the week.

15. Sample craft beer

The craft beer scene in Melbourne has blown up in the past few years, and there are several breweries that you can visit.

Head to Collingwood and start at Bodriggy Brewing Company (technically in Abbotsford), Stomping Ground (family-friendly), Molly Rose and Fixation .

A bit harder to reach but worth the Uber ride is Moon Dog World in Preston. It’s got an indoor pond and reminds me of a tiki bar.

Many of the beers from these breweries are also served on tap at the pubs I mentioned earlier.

16. Go wine-tasting in the Yarra Valley

Melbourne is lucky – we have an incredible wine region right on our doorstep. Just an hour from the city is the Yarra Valley.

Known for producing delicious Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blancs, you can easily take a day trip to the Yarra Valley and sample these specialties.

It’s easy to drive yourself out here, but I want you to be safe, so book a guided day tour instead. This wine tour visits four wineries, with stops for lunch and chocolate tasting, while on this day tour to the Yarra Valley you’ll sample wine, cheese and chocolate.

17. See a show

As the country’s “Capital of Culture”, Melbourne gets the pick of the theatre shows that come to Australia. We also have a thriving arts scene with bold and creative local productions.

Wondering what to see in Melbourne? It’s hard to keep up with what’s on, so check out the theatre websites for the latest:

• The Princess Theatre
• Her Majesty’s Theatre
• The Regent Theatre
• The Athenaeum
• Arts Centre Melbourne
• Union House

Seeing a musical or a dance performance or an opera is a great way to spend a night out in Melbourne .

18. Get on a bike

Melbourne is slowly creating the infrastructure for bike riders, on its way to becoming the Copenhagen of Australia.

Well, not quite – we still have a long way to go.

We used to have a bike share system but unfortunately that was scrapped several years ago. Instead, you can hire a bike from a private rental company like  Blue Tongue Bikes . 

Take your wheels for a spin around the streets of Melbourne’s city centre and suburbs, or get out of the city on a bike path such as the  Yarra Trail .

19. Hike in the Dandenong Ranges

One of the closest national parks to Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges is a great place to escape the city. Located only an hour’s drive east of Melbourne, this national park is known for its scenic views, lush forests and cute villages.

Hike through towering mountain ash trees, visit the majestic waterfalls or have a picnic in one of the many parks. You might even be lucky to spot a lyre bird (we always hear them when we’re walking out here but are yet to see one!).

A famous thigh-burner, the 1000 Steps is a 3-kilometre track up – you guessed it – a LOT of steps.

Easier trails include the Margaret Lester Forest Walk and Hardy Gully Nature Walk.

Pro tip: These walks and picnic areas are BUSY on the weekends, so aim for a weekday or get up early on the weekend.

20. Watch a game of footy

Australians are sports-mad, and the sport of choice for Melbourne is footy, aka Aussie Rules.

It’s a game that rarely makes sense to outsiders, but to put it simply, it involves 36 very fit men in short shorts chasing an oval-shaped ball up and down a large field, with the aim of getting that ball through some white poles at each end.

I’m not a huge footy fan, but even I can’t help getting caught up in the excitement of the roaring crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

The footy season starts in March each year and ends in late September with the Grand Final.

21. Shop at a market

A great way to remember your Melbourne trip is by taking something home with you. Beyond the retail centres and boutique shops, there are several markets around the city that sell great souvenirs.

On the weekend, vendors at the  Rose St Artists’ Market in Fitzroy sell handcrafted jewellery, handbags, clothing and homewares.

If you time your trip right, you might also catch the Heide Market , which is a collaboration with the Rose St Artists’ Market. You can then explore the Heide Museum of Modern Art while you’re there.

Pro tip: Avoid the touristy souvenir shops along Swanston Street. All the stuff here is mostly mass produced and you’ll find many selling fake Indigenous artworks and crafts.

22. See a movie outdoors

In summer, Melburnians come out in their droves and, like most Aussies, there’s no place we’d rather be than outdoors.

If you visit Melbourne in summer, you have to catch a flick at the  Rooftop Cinema or the  Moonlight Cinema . They play a range of classic movies and new releases, and there’s always something to please everyone. You can book a bean bag or picnic basket, and buy snacks and drinks.

23. Pack a picnic for the Royal Botanic Gardens

Once you’ve seen a movie in the Royal Botanic Gardens , come back here during the day for a picnic. You’ll be able to find a quiet spot in the over 36 hectares of gardens.

As cliché as it is, these gardens really are like a little oasis in the middle of a noisy city. It’s the perfect place to relax on a nice sunny day.

And for those who like a riddle or two, this Mystery Picnic Date will have you solving clues to find all the goodies for your picnic basket. You’ll then relax in the Botanic Gardens to enjoy a delicious picnic. It’s a great idea for couple and friends. Read my full Mystery Picnic Melbourne review for more info.

24. Hit the beach

Okay, I need to be clear upfront: Melbourne beaches are nothing like the beaches of Sydney.

Now that I’ve sufficiently lowered your expectations, you should still plan to come and check out the bay area beaches. St Kilda is a good place to start, as it’s easy to access from the city and there are plenty of restaurants, bars and other things to do while you’re here.

Stroll along the palm tree-lined St Kilda Foreshore and end at the St Kilda Pier for epic views of Melbourne. Don’t forget to check out the huge smiling entrance at Luna Park (or go inside to ride the century-old rollercoaster if you dare).

Much further on (it’ll take around 1.5 hours to walk) are the picturesque Brighton Bathing Boxes , great for Instagrammers.

25. See Little Penguins

Most people think of Phillip Island when they hear about penguins, but the good news is that you don’t have to go that far to see these furry little guys.

While you’re in St Kilda, stay until dusk for a special treat: hundreds of Little Penguins waddling out of the water to nest for the night. There’s a viewing area above the breakwater at the end of the St Kilda Pier.

The spectacle happens every night of the year, and the best viewing time is about 30 minutes after sunset. No flash photography allowed!

Update: The penguin viewing area is currently closed while the St Kilda Pier is redeveloped.

26. Visit Chinatown

While our Melbourne Chinatown isn’t huge, it’s somewhere you should visit in Melbourne. It’s right in the city, so you’re likely to pass it at some point.

Come here for the food. Plan to be here around lunch so you can gorge on yum cha (dim sum) or BYO booze to accompany plate loads of dumplings. Shanghai Village has long been a favourite of mine for a rowdy night with friends (the service isn’t friendly but the food is GOOD). You can even take a Melbourne dumpling tour !

There are also plenty of bars in Chinatown. Section 8 is great day or night (it opens at midday every day) and Union Electric serves up great cocktails alongside hip-hop tunes. StoryVille is a fairytale-themed cocktail bar.

But don’t just stop here for the food and drinks. The Museum of Chinese Australian History explains the history of how the Chinese came to Australia during the gold rush, as well as some of Australia’s xenophobic embarrassing past (like the shocking White Australia policy).

Chinatown is also a stop on most ghost tours of Melbourne – a spooky way to learn about the city!

27. Stroll along the Yarra River

The Yarra River , known as The Birrarung to the people of the Kulin Nations, runs through Melbourne and it’s lovely to wander along for a bit of peace and quiet. Head down to Birrarung Marr via the stairs near Federation Square.

Along here you’ll find walking paths, artworks and sculptures, a kids’ playground and park benches where you can just chill out.

Want something a bit rowdier? There are bars along the riverbank ( Arbory and Riverland Bar ) and even a bar in the middle of the river ( Ponyfish Island ).

28. Steer a GoBoat

If you’d prefer to be on the river, then hire a GoBoat with a group of mates. You can be your own captain on these boats and spend an hour cruising up and down the river.

BYO drinks and snacks for the perfect afternoon.

Just watch out for the rowers!

Other options for getting out on the river are a sunset kayaking adventure or taking a Yarra River cruise .

29. Enjoy a festival

With something happening daily in Melbourne, there’s bound to be an event or festival on when you visit Melbourne. But you might want to time your trip so you can be here for a major event.

I’ve got a whole post written about the best time to visit Melbourne , which includes what’s on during each season. But I’ll summarise a few of my favourite events here:

• Australian Open (January) – Even if you’re not a huge tennis fan, you can’t help but get into the spirit during one of the most famous tennis tournaments in the world
• Food and Wine Festival  (March) – Melbourne’s top restaurants arrange specially priced lunches and dinners, and there are other events including the longest lunch (which is lunch at a really, really long table)
• International Comedy Festival  (March to April) – Comedians from Australia and around the world descend on Melbourne to make you wet your pants with laughter
• RISING Festival (June) – Night-time winter festival that celebrates art, culture and music
• Melbourne International Film Festival  (August) – Film buffs will love Australia’s leading film festival
• Melbourne Writers Festival  (September) – Australian and international writers flock to Melbourne to share ideas and stories, and launch new books
• Melbourne Fringe (October) – The most cutting-edge independent artists from Melbourne, Australia and overseas

Plan a weekend in Melbourne so that you can experience these great events.

30. Take a day trip

If you’ve got more than a few days in Melbourne, then consider taking a day trip out of the city. There are so many amazing places to visit near Melbourne that can be reached by car, public transport or on a tour. Here’s a whole guide to 17 Melbourne day trips ideas.

Head out to the Mornington Peninsula to explore the lovely seaside towns. This area is great for local produce, bushwalks, bike rides and strolls along the beach. It’s also home to the Peninsula Hot Springs . This area also produces wines, so try a tour like this one , which includes wines and cheese and chocolate tastings.

For a change of scenery, head inland to the Dandenong Ranges and tackle the 1000 Steps hike. There are also beautiful gardens like William Ricketts Sanctuary and the magical Alfred Nicholas Gardens . Throughout the area there are lovely little cafes serving food and selling homemade jams, sauces and produce. You’ll need a car to experience this area properly.

While I think you need more than a day to really experience the famous Great Ocean Road , it is possible to drive it in a (long, tiring) day. One of the highlights is the Twelve Apostles , limestone formations that jut vertically out of the ocean. Along the way, you can stop at surf beaches like the famous Bells Beach, visit beachside towns and photograph lighthouses. If you don’t want to do the driving, there are plenty of companies that arrange day tours .

If you need longer than a day away, my guide to the best Airbnbs in Victoria will give you some inspiration.

Tips for visiting Melbourne

Now you know what to do in the city, here are some tips for visiting Melbourne.

• You don’t need to rent a car . Unless you’re planning to take a couple of day trips from Melbourne or you’re staying way out in the ‘burbs, public transport will be your best bet for getting around the city to see all the best places to visit in Melbourne.
• Come prepared for all types of weather . The four-seasons-in-one-day adage is true in this city. Bring a raincoat, a brolly (umbrella) and sunscreen when you visit Melbourne. My guide to indoor activities in Melbourne will help if it does rain during your visit.
• Melbourne can be visited year-round , although I personally think the city really shines in summer and spring. You can check out my guide to the best time to visit Melbourne so you can plan accordingly.
• Pick your accommodation carefully . I’ve broken down the best Melbourne neighbourhoods in my guide to where to stay in Melbourne .
• Just wander! Melbourne doesn’t have some of the big shiny tourist attractions that other capital cities do, so the best way to see it is to just wander and find things that take your fancy.
• Melbourne is a great city if you’re travelling with little ones – check out my full guide to the best things to do in Melbourne with kids .
• Save money by bundling activities together with the Melbourne and Beyond Pass . One of the bonuses of this pass is that you have 90 days from purchase to use the pass, which offers great flexibility.
• Check out more Melbourne travel tips .

Where to stay in Melbourne

I’ve got a whole guide on where to stay in Melbourne . But here are my top picks.

Brady Hotels Jones Lane – This hotel is a rare find. Affordable and stylish? Rooms have lots of natural light and openable windows. There’s a nice cafe downstairs. Check rates with Booking.com | Expedia

Ovolo Laneways – My pick of Melbourne hotels, this hotel has serious personality. And free lollies all day! Book a stay online with Booking.com | Expedia

Le Méridien – If you’re in Melbourne for a special occasion, stay at Le Méridien. This 5-star gem gets ticks from me for spacious rooms, friendly service, and comfortable, modern rooms. Check rates with Booking.com | Expedia

Check out more Melbourne hotels in the CBD | Read reviews of Melbourne CBD hotels

Hopefully this guide helps you narrow down what to do in Melbourne as you make your travel plans!

Found this article useful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Of this list of things to do in Melbourne, what are you most looking forward to? Let me know in the comments below.

Related posts

Before you go… you might like to read some of these articles:

• How to spend a weekend in Melbourne
• What to do with 3 days in Melbourne
• The perfect 5-day Melbourne itinerary

Best Melbourne resources

• Check out my Melbourne travel guide for everything you need to know about planning a trip to Melbourne
• Look for flights to Melbourne on Skyscanner .
• Book accommodation on Booking.com or Expedia for your Melbourne trip. The Ovolo Laneways Hotel is a good choice in the CBD.
• You won’t really need a car in Melbourne, but if you do want to get out of the city, then rent a car through DiscoverCars .
• Pick up a copy of the Lonely Planet Pocket Melbourne to help plan your trip.

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About THE AUTHOR

I’m Rebecca, a Melbourne local excited to show you the best of Melbourne. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. After living abroad for 8 years, I’m back home in Melbourne, rediscovering this city that I love and have missed. My aim is to help you find the best things to do in Melbourne.

1 thought on “30 Awesome Things To Do in Melbourne in 2024”

I just returned from Africa last week as my kenya airways flight was homebound. I am a frequent traveler and I enjoy exploring global destinations. The picture you have shared of street art in Melbourne intrigued me. It is indeed captivating. Pub meal and the bar scene also appear to be worth a try. Keep sharing such posts about your travel experiences around the world.

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Things To Do In Melbourne

Top hotel collections.

Near Half Moon Bay

Near Melbourne Central

Near DFO South Wharf

Near Marvel Stadium

• Filter (56)
• Sightseeing (7)
• Things To Do (6)
• Shopping Market (4)
• Monument (3)

1. National Gallery of Victoria

1 km from city center 1 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The National Gallery of Victoria, or NGV, is located in Melbourne, Australia. Founded in 1861, it is the oldest museum in the country and archives an abundance of heritage showcased through its magnificent collection of over 70,000 exemplary art compositions! The collection bears witness to the various ideas, styles, and disciplines of art across centuries and cultures in the country.

2. Royal Botanic Gardens

2 km from city center 2 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Royal Botanic Garden in Melbourne is home to over 50,000 plants like camellias, rainforest flora, succulents, cacti, Californian species, herbs, plants from Southern China, and many more species. Catch sight of the Guilfoyle’s Volcano and Melbourne Observatory. Visit the Terrace or Jardin Tan cafe to relish delicacies and the Gardens shop to pick botanical souvenirs. Lakes and natural wildlife complete the natural aesthetic of the garden.

3. Melbourne Cricket Ground

2 km from city center 3 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Built in the mid-19th century, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, or simply the MCG, is the Australian Cricket Team's primary and largest home stadium. It is a world-renowned stadium with world-class facilities and has borne witness to some of the best cricket matches in the world. The first test match in the sport's history was played here in 1877. It has seen many renovations and upgrades, always keeping up with international cricket standards.

4. Queen Victoria Market

1 km from city center 4 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Queen Victoria Market, carrying its 140+ years of legacy, is situated in Melbourne. It serves as a one-stop destination for fresh veggies, clothes, snacks, beverages, souvenirs, hand-made products, imported finds, and awakening coffee to taste! Stretching across two city blocks, the market is home to 600 small businesses and is a significant landmark of the central business district of Melbourne, serving as a retail and wholesale hub since the late 1860s.

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3 km from city center 5 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Within the Royal National Park in Parkville is situated the Melbourne Zoo or the Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens. Home to over 320 species of wildlife, visitors can spot Tigers wandering, Monkeys swinging, Orangutans, the Trail of Elephants, Wombats, Asian pachyderms, African Zebras, and Savanna Giraffes. One can also witness marine life creatures like Penguins and fur seals and also closely interact with Australian Koalas and Kangaroos in their natural habitat.

6. Shrine of Remembrance

2 km from city center 6 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Shrine of Remembrance is the National War Memorial of Victoria and a landmark of Melbourne. Originally dedicated to the bravery of the servicemen of Victoria in World War I, it is currently a tribute to all the brave Australians who served in the war for the country and is among Australia’s largest war memorials.

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7. Flinders Street Station

1 km from city center 7 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Flinders Street Station is the central railway station of Melbourne and an icon of the city’s culture and history. Designed in the historical Art Nouveau style in 1910, it is Australia’s oldest and busiest railway station. Once the busiest station in the world, today, it attracts over 90,000 daily commuters and large crowds of tourists who come to admire its iconic green copper dome and beautiful facade.

8. Eureka Tower

1 km from city center 8 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Eureka Tower, at a staggering height of almost 300 metres tall, was once the tallest structure in Melbourne, Australia. Opened in 2006, it is a residential highrise that is quite popular for its viewpoint, the Skydeck 88. From Skydeck 88, panoramic views of the city skyline can be viewed far out into the distance. In addition, a popular event called the Eureka Climb, which started in 2012, is held annually to see who can climb the tower fastest to the top level.

9. Day Trip to Yarra Valley

1 km from city center 9 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

A 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley offers more than a scenic view. Immerse yourself in the indigenous restaurants and wine tasting from over 70 wineries, waterfalls, and gardens. Watch the sunrise on the Hot air balloon, stop at local markets and gourmet stalls, taste their Yarra Valley Dairy Cheese and chocolate, visit the Four Pillars distillery, Ice Creamery Factory, and Healesville Sanctuary, home to over 200 species of wildlife, interact with Koalas and kangaroos.

10. Drive on the Great Ocean Road

10 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Along the southwest coast of Victoria lies the Great Ocean Road Drive. Stretching 243 kilometres along Australia's southeastern coast, it is widely believed to be one of the most scenic and beautiful drives in the country. On this drive, one can witness the 12 Apostles, Apollo Bay, waterfalls, ancient lighthouses, tree-top adventures, wildlife wonders, and beaches. Wildlife sightings such as Koalas, Kangaroos, and even whales over the shores are quite common as well.

11. Dandenong Ranges

0 km from city center 11 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

East of Melbourne City, the Dandenong Ranges are low mountain ranges covered by an enchanting spread of lush green forests, lovely little villages and awe-inspiring beauty. These mountain ranges are a famous tourist trip out of the city - whether as a day trip or over an entire weekend. Witness spectacular views from the summit of Mt. Dandenong, take a trip on the Puffing Billy, or indulge in the delectable traditional food of the ranges. Explore the many attractions, such as the 1000 Steps or the Kokoda Walk, or visit the Dandenong National Park and gain a new perspective on flora and fauna of the region.

12. Explore Flinders Lane

0 km from city center 12 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located in Melbourne, Flinders Lane is a hotspot for world-renowned fine dining, galleries, and fashion labels. Grill Americano, Supernormal, Coda, Tippy Tay, and Kenzan are popular eateries around the area. Visit the nearby Degraves street for cafes, bars, coffee, and garment boutiques. Anna Schwartz Gallery and Flinders Lane Gallery hold exhibitions. Umpteen handicrafts, jewellery, and homeware authentic to the Victorian era are available here. Do not miss visiting historic buildings like Murray and Chapter House.

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13. Melbourne City Centre

1 km from city center 13 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Melbourne City Centre is where the city's foundation was laid back in 1835. Today it is one of the busiest commercial areas of the city, filled with shops, boutiques, restaurants, theatres and even sports stadiums. The city centre is also known as the central business district or the CBD of Melbourne.

14. Sea Life Aquarium

1 km from city center 14 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Home to over 500 species of aquatic animals, the Sea life Melbourne aquarium is located in central Melbourne. The majestic king, gentoo penguins, and the world's largest crocodile are some of the aquarium's main attractions. Experience dining under the massive oceanarium among stingrays, sharks, and many multi-coloured fishes. 4D aquatic cinema shows, hands-on wave touch pools, feeding shows, and other programs help visitors virtually interact with marine life as well.

15. Royal Exhibition Building

1 km from city center 15 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Built in 1880, the Royal Exhibition Building is a UNESCO World Heritage Sight and was the first building in Australia to get this status. Its magnificent architecture and imposing size make it a popular tourist attraction. It is one of the only remaining exhibition buildings in the world and was built during the wave of the international exhibition movement to host the Melbourne International Exhibition of 1881. Today, the stunning building serves as the prime location in Melbourne to host all sorts of shows, exhibitions and events.

16. Scienceworks

6 km from city center 16 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Another wing of the Museum Victoria, Scienceworks is a famous science museum in Australia that aims to impart scientific knowledge and awareness in a fun manner. Opened in 1992, the museum offers exhibits, tours and demonstrations that are enjoyable for adults and children alike, ensuring an interactive and fruitful experience. Some popular exhibitions include the steam engines and the 'lighting room', where a lighting bolt as long as 3 metres is synthetically produced.

17. Healesville Sanctuary

52 km from city center 17 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Nestled in the Yarra Valley near Melbourne, Healesville Sanctuary is a bushland haven for different species of Australian native animals and birds. It is a part of Zoos Victoria and is spread over an area of 30 hectares. The sanctuary is one of the two places across the globe that has successfully bred a Platypus. Wander through the tranquil trails and get a glimpse of the wildlife in the exhibits.

18. Explore Degraves Street

2 km from city center 18 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Situated in the Central Business District in Melbourne, Degraves street is a pedestrian walkway known for its sit-out cafes and eateries. This narrow laneway houses restaurants, cafes, breweries, garments and fashion outlets, sweet treats, victorian-hand-made gifts, jewellery, and much more around every corner. The Flinders Street Station is easily accessible from here. One can expect to find it packed with crowds throughout the week.

19. Shop at South Melbourne Market

2 km from city center 19 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Popularly known as the ‘local village market’, the South Melbourne Market, located in Melbourne, Victoria, is famous for its coffee, cafes, and restaurants serving food from locally procured ingredients. The highlight of this market is the four-day Moomba festival held annually. Merchandise like local handicrafts, homeware, garments, books, and fashion equipment are also available. In addition, live concerts, exhibitions, and offerings display support for their rich heritage.

20. Organ Pipes National Park

23 km from city center 20 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Situated in the central region of Victoria, The Organ Pipes National Park is famous for its geological location and the Organ Pipes hanging off a cliff. The Rosette Rock, Keilor Plains, and Tessellated Pavement, with fossils dating back to 4 million years, are notable attractions of the park. Native plants and rich wildlife with animals like Kangaroos, Echidnas, and Platypus are sited here. Trails are tailored to show around corners of the park. Camping, fishing, hiking, and picnicking are everyday activities one can try their hand at while visiting the park.

21. Abbotsford Convent

3 km from city center 21 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Abbotsford Convent is located in Abbotsford, Victoria. It is a preserve of Culture, Learning, and Creativity, a space, home to over 100 art studios, galleries, eateries and cafes, radio stations, a school, open-air cinema, all surrounded by greenery. St. Heliers Street Gallery, an artistically rich space, is a ‘must-visit’. The Convent has educational and social history tours, mysteries podcasts, exhibitions, markets, festivals, private and corporate events, workshops, and performances to celebrate community enrichment.

22. Astor Theatre

6 km from city center 22 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Astor Theatre in St Kilda, Australia, provides a grand cinematic experience, running old classics, cult favourites, and select new releases via a single-screen in a not-so ‘old-fashioned’ auditorium. The space is equipped with the Barco 4K Digital Projector and a hi-fi audio system elevating the quality of audio and visuals. Their seats lack comfort due to heritage protection, exhibiting ancient Victorian vibes. The nearby train station and restaurants attract customers due to the easy access. Stalls are available, serving snacks and beverages.

23. Heide Museum of Modern Art

12 km from city center 23 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Heide Museum of Modern Art is situated in Bulleen, a suburb of Melbourne. It houses modern and contemporary art. The pleasant garden at Heide serves as a great picnic spot for visitors, and the sculpture park is also one other major attraction within the museum. Exhibitions are held with the Heide Market showcasing works of artistry expertise and handcrafted goods. Learning opportunities are offered too. The cafe Heide serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch made from seasonal produce grown in-house in the kitchen garden.

24. Fitzroy Gardens

2 km from city center 24 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Situated in East Melbourne, Fitzroy Gardens is home to a wide array of Flora, historical buildings, and sculptures. Sites of Heritage and Tourist Attractions include the Captain Cook’s Cottage, Carved Fairies Tree, the Scarred Tree, Myriad Fountains, Statues, Model Tudor Village, Band Pavillion, Sinclair’s Cottage, and the Rotunda. In addition, scenic water elements are distributed throughout the garden that visitors can spot while on a leisurely stroll.

25. Enjoy a Concert at Hamer Hall

22 km from city center 25 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Hamer Hall, formerly the Melbourne Concert Hall, is Melbourne's top location for orchestra and chamber music. Concerts including jazz, rock, pop, multicultural, chamber, classical, cabaret, and contemporary music with an Assistive Hearing System are held in Hamer Hall's space of 2500 seats throughout the year. In addition, companies like the Australian Ballet, Opera Australia, and Melbourne Theatre organize regular events and performances at the Hall.

26. State Theatre

10 km from city center 26 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The State Theatre, located in Melbourne, is part of the Arts Centre Melbourne. The underground space is ideally used for artists showcasing their talents in the form of theatre performances, dancing, and musical talents, specifically Ballet and Opera. The Theatre is equipped with Assistive Hearing System enriching every execution ever! Opera Australia and Australian Ballet host varied events and acts regularly. Do not forget to notice the 75,000 tiny brass cups adorning the ceiling of this gigantic setting.

27. Day Out at St Kilda

6 km from city center 27 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Known as the beachside playground, St Kilda is an inner suburb in Melbourne. Visitor attractions like Luna Park, Catani Gardens, and Acland street. Visitors can cycle along the shores of the Phillip port, walk through the sandy beach, and enjoy the outdoor pubs, cafes, multi-cuisine restaurants, and breweries on Fitzroy street. It houses Melbourne’s famous St Kilda beach, the Astor, and St Kilda Breakwater, where penguins can be spotted. Catch a show, go shopping or just relax at St Kilda, one destination for all leisure.

28. Lune Croissanterie

28 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located in Melbourne, and Fitzroy, Lune Croissanterie is famous for its artisanal confectionery and natural ingredients used in its composition. Their Croissants were declared as ‘finest’ in the world by The New York Times. Other specialities on the menu include sweet treats like Kouign-amann, pain au chocolat, doughnuts, cakes, and a good brew. The pâtisserie introduces monthly specials as well. Be sure to experience their Lune Lab, a fine dining experience authentic to the taste of the Lunes.

29. Sidney Myer Music Bowl

18 km from city center 29 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Amidst the Kings Domain Gardens in Melbourne, Sidney Myer Music Bowl is a famous summertime location, famous for Carols by Candlelight and Melbourne Symphony Orchestra., their annual event. In addition, it hosts yearlong live concerts, symphony performances, theatre, and more. The music hub has seen some world-renowned artists like Paul McCartney, Neil Diamond, Metallica, Florence, and The Seekers. It was nominated for the Best Venue Award at the Music Victoria Awards in 2021.

30. Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

29 km from city center 30 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens is located in the Sherbrooke settlement, Victoria, Australia. It is known for its water elements and extensive and seasonally changing flora like orchids, azaleas, ferns, maple leaves, rhododendrons, and camellias, all adorning the trails of the garden. Lakes, picnic spots, curated trails, and boathouses at the venue magnify the individual experience. Cafes and food joints serve delicious food whilst you admire nature.

31. Whisky Tasting at Starward Distillery

0 km from city center 31 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located in Melbourne, Starward Distillery is dignified as the whisky haven of Australia. Made from high-quality secret ingredients and aged in red wine barrels, the authentic Australian whisky made here has a unique, lighter, and fruitier taste. The venue exhibits sophisticated visitor facilities that include a bar and food joints. Distillery tours and cocktail-tasting menus add to the wholesome experience.

32. Bellarine Peninsula

42 km from city center 32 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located southwest of Melbourne, Victoria, Bellarine Peninsula offers tourists beaches, vineries, authentic village markets, breweries, museums, water sports, and exposure to fine dining! You can opt for curated tours, like the Seal and Dolphin swim, Balloon Flights in Geelong, Fort Queenscliff, and Local Wildlife sightseeing. Hit the beach at Barwon Head, look out for Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, and consume the traditions at Narana Cultural Centre.

33. The Toff in Town

39 km from city center 33 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Toff is situated in Curtin House, Melbourne offering fine dining with a musical ambience every evening. Their private train-carriage theme is famous to book for a relaxed evening with friends while they serve you exceptional Thai food. The venue has an extensive food and drinks menu, brought to your booth! Also hosted are late-night parties with gigs, DJ nights, comical performances, and cabaret acts.

34. Luxury Shopping at Block Arcade

101 km from city center 34 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Situated in the centre of Melbourne’s CBD, Block arcade is a luxury shopping arcade with branded fashion outlets, cafes, bakeries, vintage jewellery, gift stores, and art. It is home to the original Hopetoun Tea Rooms and renowned traders like Basement Discs, Sol Alpaca, and Haigh’s Chocolates, Australia’s premium chocolatiers! Private functions are held at the venue, and a guided tour twice every week showing around the luxury food outlets and artisan cafes, explaining the rich history behind the 100-year-old building.

35. Street Art at Centre Place

0 km from city center 35 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Centre Place is located between Collins Street and Flinders Lane in Melbourne. The laneway is lined with shopping outlets, food corners, boutiques, and coffee shops. Notice the varying, colour-splashed Street Art and innovative Graffiti painting on the walls of this street. The stencil work and details are elaborately themed, almost professional looking. Visit Jungle Juice for international coffee, Aix for crepes, dumplings at ShanDong MaMa Mini, and Hell’s Kitchen to chug a cold beer.

36. Skiing at Lake Mountain Alpine Resort

85 km from city center 36 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

A two-hour drive from Melbourne, Lake Mountain Alpine Resort offers fun activities like mountain biking, skiing, tobogganing and snow play, and snowshoeing. The kid-friendly toboggans are family-recommended, and the best time for this is between early June and late September. Village Run, Koala Creek, and Leadbeaters are the three major slopes for tobogganing. Other popular nearby places include Healesville sanctuary, phantom falls, and lake mountain Bristo, which serve locally seasoned food.

37. Kayak Along the Yarra River

26 km from city center 37 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Yarra river is one of Melbourne’s significant waterways. Kayak along the river to come across tourist attractions like the royal Botanical Gardens, Australian Tennis Open, Herring Island Park, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Eureka Tower, Bolt Bridge, and Crown Casino. Wearing old joggers or feather-light garments and carrying your own essentials kit is advised. Dry bags, kayaks, and life jackets will be provided at the departure spot.

38. Mount Hotham

38 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

A 4.5-hour drive from Melbourne, Mt Hotham, Australia’s alpine village, is famous for its breathtaking views of mountain ranges and skiing for experienced and beginners. It houses a few of the best resorts, like Chalet Hotham, Mountain Dreaming, and Gotcha Chalet. Other popular activities include husky sled dog tours, helicopter rides over the mountain, spa retreats, snowmobile rides, cross-country skiing, and much more. The best time to visit Mt Hotham is between July and August, when it receives most of the snowfall.

39. Day Trip to Mornington Peninsula

46 km from city center 39 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

An hour's drive from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is home to some fine vineyards, beaches, national parks, and meals made from local produce. Some leisure activities visitors can engage in include peninsula hot springs, dolphin and seal swim tours, hiking, sightseeing, and ferry rides. Do not miss Arthur's seat, the highest viewpoint of the peninsula, Pt Leo Estate, the sculpture garden, London Bridge, and Digger's Club, Australia's largest organic garden.

40. Hawker Chan

56 km from city center 40 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located at 157 Lonsdale St Melbourne, Hawker Chan is famous for its Michelin-starred food from Singapore. Globally known for being the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant, it offers over 20 dishes, with its bestseller being the soy sauce chicken noodles. The secret ingredient is their soya sauce marinade and a budget starting at only $6.80. Other popular dishes include soya chicken rice and pork ribbed rice.

41. Butchers Diner

28 km from city center 41 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Advertising premium Australian meat, butcher's diner is a dine-in and takeaway joint located in Melbourne's central business district. Prepared in-house, the meat is juicy, smoked, and tender and paired with fresh buns and veggies. Other popular dishes include blood sausage, sesame-spiked Japanese fried rice, devilled egg rolls, steak sandwiches, and the classic cheeseburger. Spanish doughnut dunked in chocolate sauce is the go-to dessert for all the customers to end their night.

42. Melbourne International Comedy Festival

42 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival stretches for three to four weeks annually, between March and April. It hosts the absolute supremacy of comedy talents, plays, workshops, debates, theatre, music shows, and exhibitions in Australia. Flagship events include Australia’s largest open mic comedy competitions, RAW, Roadshow, Class clowns where high school students compete, and Deadly Funny, unique to celebrating indigenous Australian humour. In addition, exquisite Food and Drinks are served to elevate the individual experience.

43. Hot Air Balloon Ride in Melbourne

43 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Hot Air Ballon Ride is a lifetime experience, flying high to get a bird’s view of the city and a scenic view. These Balloon Rides are arranged at different locations with one meal included. Queensland is famous for its floating-in-air and highest ride counts. They last for an average of one hour. In addition, customised packages like Sunrise Ballooning at Alice Springs, Yarra Valley Balloon Flight at Sunrise, Balloon flights at Geelong, and Hot air balloon tours in Brisbane are available throughout the year.

44. Ride a Tram

44 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Tram is a public transport in Australia under the Yarra Trams. At designated stops, timings of arrival and departure, destination, number, and routes to trams are mentioned so you can easily access them. Travelling within the CBD and Docklands using a tram is free. In addition, Melbourne’s burgundy and City Circle Tram offers a free tour of attractions and commentary at places of interest.

45. Experience the Aurora Australis

45 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Australian version of the Northern lights is Aurora Australis. The further down south, the better its chances of visibility, preferably if you’re in Tasmania. Within Melbourne, Rickett’s Point in Beaumaris, coasts close to Port Phillip, Werribee South, and Point Cook hold high chances of spotting the light. Other locations in Victoria include Point Lonsdale, Cape Schanck, Flinders, and Anglesea. Winter season, May to August or around the equinox, is the best time to spot this mesmerizing natural phenomenon.

46. Sip Some Magic Coffee

46 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia's Coffee Capital, has breweries and cafes in every laneway. However, their famous 'Magic Coffee' is a secret from the rest of the world and Australia itself! It's a Melbournian 'thing' that you rarely spot on any menu. Double Rissetto topped with steamed milk, served in a regular 160ml or 5oz sized cup, is what the coffee constitutes. 'The Auction Rooms' at 107 Errol street in North Melbourne is an excellent place to try the signature coffee of the city.

47. Watch the Australian Open

47 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Australian Open, or the ‘Happy Slam’, is a Tennis Tournament annually held in January at Melbourne Park. The venue sees massive crowding during the season from across the globe. It is the first of the four Grand Slam Tours every year. The tournament hosts singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and junior championships for both men and women, with exhibition events parallelly. High-profile names like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Pete Sampras face off here.

48. Watch the New Year's Fireworks

48 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

New Year’s and New Year’s Eve is a grand time to visit Melbourne. They welcome the occasion with colourful fireworks across the sky arranged at wide locations. Visit the waterfront, Yarra Park, Southbank, or Federation square for a better sight of them. Pubs organize performances, DJ nights, and feasts for outdoor celebrations. The city is decorated, and Rooftop lounges are packed. The H2O Event on New Year’s Eve is their best voted to kickstart celebrations.

49. Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre

49 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Bonjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre is situated at Melbourne Museum, Australia. Through the many exhibitions showcasing artefacts, storytelling, and events held, it is a hotspot for Art, Culture, History, and Heritage lovers! Visit the Birrarung Gallery and First peoples, their art space for exhibitions, Milarri Garden Trails, home to flora from the native era, and Kalaya, for performances celebrating the roots of the native Victorians.

50. Drinking History Tour in Melbourne

72 km from city center 50 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

An experiential tour, experiencing the undercover settings of Melbourne with their historical context and visiting bars while exploring the nightlife. These tours last for three hours, inspecting three bars in the city or Fitzroy, spending an average of 35-40 minutes at each stop. Drinks are included, one per bar. The idea is to discover the overlooked attractions of the city and socialize. The tour is not available for individuals under 18.

51. Stay at Adelphi Hotel

22 km from city center 51 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located at 187 flinders lane Melbourne, Adelphi hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel famous for its rooftop swimming pool. The exemplary cantilevered glass bottom pool hangs from the ninth story giving the guests an extraordinary swimming experience and an overview of Flinders lane. The hotel’s kitchen Om Nom has an extensive menu offering varied cuisines with its own dessert bar.

52. Nicholas Building

38 km from city center 52 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Nicholas Building is located at the intersection of Swanston Street and Flinders Lane, Melbourne. The building is home to shoemakers, milliners, artists, jewellers, architects, and the famous cathedral cafe. In addition, art studios, business offices, galleries, bookstores, Patch Attack, Pasteup, Retro Fashion labels, Sticky Institue for craft supplies, and Brendan Dwyer for leather footwear are notable outlets inside the heritage building.

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Portsea Pier, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria © Mornington Peninsula

Places to visit near Melbourne 

Indulge in incredible food and wine, spot native wildlife and admire the ancient landscapes when you take a few days to explore some of the scenic locations surrounding Melbourne.

By Anna Lavdaras

Melburnians love their city almost as much as they love escaping it – at least for a day or two. Whether you're a history buff, foodie or nature-lover, the regions surrounding  Melbourne  are worth exploring. 

Bendigo Tram, Bendigo, Goldfields, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Where:  a two-hour drive north of Melbourne

The grand buildings, Chinese heritage and living museums of Bendigo are a visible legacy of the 1850s gold rush. More recently, the town's art and culture scene has flourished with one of the best regional galleries on the country, the  Bendigo Art Gallery . Bendigo is also known for its shiraz, which you can taste at one of 60 cellar doors with  Bendigo Winery Tours . The food scene has a strong farm-to-table ethos. Try  Bendigo Wholefoods , or one of the fancier eateries like  Masons of Bendigo  or  The Woodhouse . Check into The Schaller Studio  for the night, inspired by the working studio of Australian artist Mark Schaller.

High Country

Falls Creek, Victoria © Chris Hocking

Where:  about three hours north-east of Melbourne

Like its name suggests, this is alpine country, known for its snow-covered slopes come  winter  (June-August). If you're not fond of the cold, there are equally as many drawcards in the warmer months. Adventure lovers can tackle all varieties of mountain biking or snowmobiling at Mount Buller. Take a drive up to  Mount McKay  for some of the region's best mountain views, or cycle or horse ride across  Mount Stirling . Explore  Beechworth , one of the best-preserved gold rush-era towns. Stop for lunch at  The Provenance  where you can also sleep in the converted stables out back. Just a half-hour away lies  Rutherglen , famous for its fortified wines, and the award-winning eatery,  Terrace Restaurant . If beer is more your style, follow the  High Country Brewery Trail . End your adventure at  Circa 1936  in Corowa, a restored Art Deco bank with just three guestrooms, a day spa, and butler service.

Penguins, Phillip Island Nature Park, Phillip Island, Victoria © Phillip Island Nature Park

Where: a 1.5-hour drive south of Melbourne

Wildlife lovers can't leave Melbourne without making the drive south to  Phillip Island . Known for its daily  Penguin Parade , visitors get to watch resident penguins come ashore after a day of fishing out at sea. While you're waiting for sunset, head to the treetops for another kind of furry encounter at the  Koala Conservation Centre . Alternatively, jump on board with  Wildlife Coast Cruises  to see local seals, dolphins, whales and birdlife. If you'd rather stay on dry land, head for the cliff-top boardwalks at  The Nobbies  where you can view Seal Rocks, home to the country's largest Australian fur seal colony. Follow the  South Gippsland Drink Trail  and experience Phillip Island's excellent cool-climate wineries and fresh produce. Settle in for the night at  Clifftop , a cosy B&B with spectacular ocean views from most rooms.

Peninsula Hot Springs, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria © Peninsula Hot Springs

Did you know?

The Mornington Peninsula is famous for its pinot noir. These vines thrive in the region's cool maritime climate so they can ripen slowly.

Where:  a one-hour drive south of Melbourne

The relaxing region of  Mornington Peninsula  is home to great food, wine and thermal springs. Do a tasting at a  local winery , blend your own bubbly at Foxeys Hangout or discover some of Australia's premier craft breweries on the  Beer, Cider and Spirits Trail . When you need something to soak it all up, head to  Laura at Point Leo , an award-winning restaurant overlooking the vineyards. At Willow Creek Vineyard estate you'll find the stellar  Jackalope Hotel , with one of the most exciting restaurants in the area,  Doot Doot Doot . And don't forget to visit the local growers supplying them, like  Green Olive at Red Hill ,  Main Ridge Dairy  and  Red Hill Truffles . After a full day of eating and drinking, relax at  Peninsula Hot Springs , a natural thermal mineral spa house. If the weather is fine, enjoy the sandy shores of  Port Phillip Bay . The colourful bathing boxes are an attraction in their own right.

Ninety Mile Beach, Gippsland, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Where:  about three hours south-east of Melbourne

The wilderness of  Gippsland  stretches from Melbourne to Victoria's border with New South Wales, covering 542km (337mi). It offers Victoria's largest coastal wilderness area,  Wilsons Promontory , which is threaded with  walking tracks  and wildlife. For more of the unique Gippsland landscape, head out to explore the  Gippsland Lakes , a network of lakes, marshes and lagoons covering more than 600sq km (230sq mi). Go on a  guided tour  to see the stalactites and stalagmites of Fairy Cave and the calcite-rimmed pools of Royal Cave or spot wildlife at the  Buchan Caves Reserve  where you can stay in  safari-style wilderness retreats . Follow the Gippsland  Food and Wine Trail  for the freshest seafood along the coast, wines at Dirty Three Wines and  Tambo Wine , batch beers and gins at  Loch Brewery & Distillery ,  Prom Country Cheese  and a local meal at the  Tinamba Hotel .

The Great Ocean Road

Port Fairy, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Belinda Van Zanen Media

Winter (June - August) is the off-season on the Great Ocean Road. During this time you'll find fewer crowds, raging waterfalls and the chance to spot migrating whales.

Where:  a 1.5-hour drive south-west of Melbourne

Forget the destination, the  Great Ocean Road  is all about the journey. If it's the highlights tour you want, head for the world-famous waves at Bells Beach or laze on the sand at Anglesea. Visit the charming fishing village of Port Fairy and get among the buzzing arts community in Lorne. Take a selfie with the 12 Apostles, and then head inland to see the thundering waterfalls as you walk along the tops of ancient, mossy trees at the  Otway Fly Treetop Walk . Thrill seekers can opt for the  Otway Fly Zipline Tour  which zips between "cloud stations" 30m (98ft) above the forest floor. Cool-climate wineries stretch the length of the Great Ocean Road, so be sure to stop off at cellar doors like  Basalt  in the Henty region, or  Bellbrae Estate  near Bells Beach. Book well in advance for the upmarket restaurant  Brae , and settle in for the night at  Drift House  in scenic Port Fairy.

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat, Victoria © Tourism Australia

Where:  a 1.5-hour drive west of Melbourne

Stepping into  Sovereign Hill  feels like going back in time, way back to 1851. The town is an open-air museum that re-creates Ballarat during the first 10 years after the discovery of gold. Set on an original mining site, and complete with costumed characters, you can walk into the shops, hotels, theatre, school, factories, gold diggings and underground mines as if they were still functioning today. Return from your foray into the past with a visit to the  Ballarat Wildlife Park , then head to  Tuki Trout Farm . Hook a rainbow trout from the farm's pond, then have it cooked fresh in the on-site restaurant. Stay at the Tuki Retreat, or head into Ballarat. Indulge in a meal at  Underbar , an exclusive dining experience serving tasting dishes inspired by the seasons and surrounds for 16 diners at a time, so book ahead.

MacKenzie Falls, Grampians National Park, Victoria © Roberto Seba

Where: a three-hour drive west of Melbourne

One of Victoria's most popular hiking destinations, the  Grampians National Park  is an incredible mountain landscape dotted with quaint towns. Get a taste of local Aboriginal culture and see ancient rock art at the famous Bunjil's Shelter. Take a  guided tour  from Halls Gap for a richer understanding. The area is also known for quality wines with big names like  Seppelt , Montara and Best's . You can jump aboard a  Grampians winery tour , or hop on a  Grampians Helicopters picnic tour  and really take in the grand scale of the surrounds. After you've indulged, trek the rugged cliffs and cascading waterfalls, go fishing or canoeing and get up close to native wildlife. Then wind down your day with a meal at the  Royal Mail Hotel , regularly voted one of the best dining destinations in Australia.

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