50 places to visit in melbourne

50 EPIC Places to Visit in Melbourne – Attractions in Every Suburb

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2023

This detailed list of places to visit in Melbourne Australia will help you plan the most perfect visit possible, or help you discover some places you may not have known before.

Melbourne isn’t exactly a ‘city of attractions and landmarks’ as much as, say, London. But, there are still plenty of places to visit in Melbourne to keep anyone occupied for weeks.

I’m not joking when I say weeks, either. Even if you try a new cafe every morning, explore a new park or museum or laneway or suburb each day, test a new restaurant for dinner each night, and then visit a new trendy/hidden bar…. you would still never finish it all. And that’s why I LOVE this city!

Melbourne has more cafes per capita than any other city in the world, has new restaurants and bars opening each and every week, and is a center for food, culture, art, music, theatre, and just about anything else you could think of. There’s a reason Melbourne won most livable city in the world 7 years running, people!

After living in Melbourne and working as a tour guide in the city center, I learned basically all there is to know about worthwhile places to visit in Melbourne… and now I’m going to share that information with you! If you are planning you trip to Melbourne, check out my guide.

Check out my Other Melbourne Guides, Too!

• 48 Hours in Melbourne Itinerary
• Map + Complete Guide to Hidden Bars in Melbourne
• Melbourne CBD Breakfast + Brunch Guide
• Melbourne Day Trips 
• Melbourne Weekend Getaways
• Great Ocean Road Trip Itinerary

Places to Visit in Melbourne CBD

The Melbourne CBD is what many would call ‘downtown.’ This is where all the hustle and bustle is – the corporate buildings, tiny laneways, hidden/rooftop bars, historical sites, restaurants tucked in every corner, cultural areas, parks, museums – the whole lot.

Although there are lots of other places to visit outside Melbourne city center, this is where you’ll want to begin to find the most noteworthy Melbourne attractions and a basic understanding of the city’s history. Scroll down or click here for my guide to Melbourne day trips.

I have organized the below in order so that you can pretty much walk in a seamless (but occasionally winding) line from each place to the next. You decide where to begin and how long to spend. You’re welcome. 

Parliament Building

The parliament building is, for the sake of comparison, like Melbourne’s White House. It’s where the government functions for the state of Victoria always have and still do take place. They have free tours of the inside each day if you’re into that kind of thing.

The building is known for its beautiful Victorian-style architecture and massive stone columns out the front. It and a few buildings around the city of Melbourne were all built in this style during the Victorian Gold Rush of the mid-1800’s, which played a main role in shaping the Melbs we know today. It’s a great place to get the city circle tram.

Tip: If you’re into historic Victorian gold rush-era buildings, book a room at the gorgeous Windsor Hotel across the street! 

Treasury Building Museum

Continuing the historic gold rush-era buildings, we have the Old Treasury Building Museum. This one was built to be, well, a treasury during the gold Rush. It used to be the place to weigh, class, and store the gold found out in the gold fields.

Today, it’s a museum all about the foundations of Melbourne. It’s one of the best places to visit in Melbourne to gain a bit more of a historic understanding of the city, which is why I recommend it first!

Street Art Laneways

Did you even visit Melbourne city if you don’t have a photo in a street art-filled laneway? No.  Melbourne is well-known for street art, and in the CBD you’ll find some of my favorite laneways for street art- AC/DC Lane and Hosier Lane.

AC/DC Lane is my personal favorite. They say AC/DC (the band) had some of their first gigs in a hidden rock bar called Cherry Bar (recently closed), which is why the laneway is named after them and why you’ll find all rock-related murals (many album covers for famous artists) covering the walls. See how many you can pick out!

Tip: Two of my favorite hidden bars are in this area: Eau de Vie (most incredibly presented cocktails in the city) and Trinket (enter the secret bar through the wardrobe). 

Hosier Lane is the most famous (read: crowded af) laneway in the city. This one has a high turnover rate of art, so you’ll often see someone doing a mural right in front of you.

If you have time, visit Presgrave Place a bit farther away in the city center too.

St Paul’s Cathedral

This is the tallest church in Australia and one of the many famous Melbourne city attractions. Take a photo from Federation Square or visit during some of their open hours or Sunday services.

Tip: One of the best cafes is next door, called Chapter House Cafe. 

Federation Square – Ian Potter Centre, ACMI Museum, and Koorie Heritage Trust Cultural Centre

Federation Square was created to be the main city square Melbourne never had (there are no parks in the CBD – funny story).

It opened back in 2002, intended to house lots of bars and restaurants, broadcast videos and games on a massive screen, hold festivals, house thousands of people for special occasions, and be home to many of the city’s free museums . Here are the Federation Square museums:

Ian Potter Centre

This is an Australian art museum – housing art made only by Aussie artists. There’s a whole floor dedicated to an aboriginal art gallery and cultural artifacts as well inside Ian Potter.

Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) Museum

Australian Centre for the Moving Image. This museum is your one-stop Federation Square shop for all things moving image – video, cinematography, video games, and the evolution of all the above, including fun interactive exhibits.

Koorie Heritage Trust Cultural Centre

This is the best free place to go to learn about Victorian aboriginal culture in Melbourne city. Indigenous culture is something very important to learn about during any trip to Melbourne/Australia, and this is a fantastic place to do so.

Flinders Street Train Station

Flinders Street Train Station is a Melbourne staple. It’s one of the most well-known Melbourne attractions, with a red and yellow facade, green dome top, clock tower, and row of train time clocks out the front. Fun Fact: the times on the train clocks used to have to be changed by hand 900 times in one day, with a long steel rod!

There has been a train station on this site since the 1850’s, but the current building was completed in 1909. A famous Melbourne saying is ‘meet me under the clocks,’ meaning meet me out the front of Flinders St Station (across from Federation square before it existed)!

Tip: If it’s summer, check out the Arbory Afloat floating bar or Ponyfish Island bar on the Yarra next to Flinders Street Station

Yarra River + Yarra River Cruise

The Yarra is Melbourne’s city center river. There are lots of great restaurants and bars along the water in the city, with great views. But perhaps the best way to see the Yarra and view the city from a different perspective is by taking a very affordable Yarra River Cruise.

You can book a river cruise here which will take you both upstream towards the sporting parks and downstream towards docklands.

Immigration Museum

As the city of Melbourne is founded on immigration (population boomed during the Gold Rush with people from all over the world), this type of museum is especially fascinating here.

Visit this museum to learn all about when people came to Melbourne, where they came from, why they came, what they brought with them, how this affected the city, and the current demographics of the area.

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Melbourne’s Aquarium – the Sea Life Aquarium – is right along the Yarra and is actually very spectacular. It’s one of the most popular Melbourne attractions included in the iVenture Melbourne unlimited Attractions pass.

You can also book discounted entrance to the Melbourne aquarium online in advance by clicking here.

Food Laneways

Laneways aren’t only good for street art! When you head back towards Flinders St train station, there are some fabulous laneways that are famous for restaurants and cafes.

Degraves St , “Melbourne’s Paris-themed laneway,’ is one of my personal favorites – great for breakfast and brunch. Next is Centre Place, where you’ll find hole-in-the-wall restaurants and cheap takeaway baguettes.

If you’re after dinner, Hardware Lane is the place to go. You’ll feel like you transported to Italy!

Melbourne Town Hall

The Town Hall is one of those Melbourne tourist attractions that you have to at least lay eyes on, but don’t necessarily need to stay long. It’s another Victorian-style Gold Rush-era buildings that are worth a photo when you pass by.

Block Arcade + Royal Arcade

Nope, not the kind of arcade you’re thinking of! During the Gold Rush, Melburnians constructed beautifully designed, covered ‘shopping laneways’ that became centers of social interaction during the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.

The most famous of these historic arcades are the Block Arcade and the Royal Arcade. They have gorgeous European architecture and some great venues inside.

Tip: If you are into High Tea, visit the Hopetoun Tea Rooms in the Block arcade (oldest in the city). Kaikey Lane is a personal favorite laneway brekky/brunch spot in Block Pl. 

Old Melbourne Post Office/ H&M

Yes, I did just list H&M in my guide to places to visit in Melbourne – strictly because of the historic building it’s now inside! The Old Melbourne Post Office is inside yet another beautiful Victorian style building on Bourke St, and it was active up until 1992.

Today, H&M has taken over the historic building (much to many locals’ dismay). I must give it to them, though – they have done really well with it. Marvel at the outside of the building, and even venture inside to view the original archways and glass ceiling. It’s only one time I’ll list an H&M on a travel guide, mmmkay?

Bourke Street Mall

The Bourke Street Mall is Melbourne’s shopping mall. It starts on Bourke Street and continues with 5-6 levels of shops for four blocks.  I usually get lost inside, but if you need to shop, this is THE PLACE to do it. A good place to enter is through the Myer/David Jones on Bourke Street and it’s all downhill you can find the rest from there.

Tip: One of my fave bars EVER called Beneath Driver Lane is around here. Try the cocktails. 

Did you know Melbourne has one of the oldest Chinatown’s in the world?! There were loads of Chinese immigrants during the Gold Rush, and there has been a very strong Chinese culture around here ever since.

Chinatown is a MUST visit in Melbourne – even if you only have 24 hours in Melbourne. You can visit all kinds of Chinese shops, check out the Chinese Museum, and every local’s personal favorite: CHINESE FOOD. More specifically, dumplings.

Pop into one of the dozens of BYO hole-in-the-wall dumpling houses (we call them ‘dirty dumplings’ because sometimes it may look a bit dodgy but you just grow to trust it after a while 😛 ), bring some booze, cram into a tiny table in the corner, and eat your heart out.

Some of my favorite dumpling houses: Empress of China, China Red, Shanghai Street, Juicy Bao

State Library Victoria

Guess what – ANOTHER big Victorian-style building in the CBD! This one is very special, though – so special I recommend it as an absolute MUST-SEE of the tourist attractions in Melbourne.

The State Library of Victoria is much more than a Library – it’s a museum, a study hub, and an architectural wonder. Visit the museum exhibits to learn all about Melbourne’s fascinating history, and marvel at the gorgeous La Trobe reading room with 4 floors of bookshelves and exhibits. It’s free to enter, too!

Old Melbourne Gaol

The Old Melbourne Gaol (the old spelling for ‘jail’) is one of my favorite Melbourne hidden gems – an 1800’s jail smack-dab in the middle of the city! My favorite part about it is that the old jail is now part of the RMIT college campus (LOL get it? going to school in a jail? No? Sorry, dad jokes).

The old gaol buildings that haven’t been converted into university buildings are now a fascinating museum. You can enter the Old Melbourne Gaol to learn all about how crime was managed through Melbourne’s History, what criminals were kept there, why they were arrested, the cells in which they were kept, and even the logistics of hanging the worst of them!

There’ a whole exhibit on Melbourne’s most famous criminal, Ned Kelly . For nicely discounted tickets, purchase online in advance here.

Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market or ‘Vic Market’ as many locals call it, is another of the best places to visit in Melbourne. It’s the southern hemisphere’s largest open-air market and is seriously the ONLY place you’ll need to go to get souvenirs and other Australian trinkets. You can also get very cheap produce here. It’s wonderful to explore. Keep in mind the Queen Victoria Market is open Tu, Th, Fri, Sat, and Sun.

On Wednesday nights from 5-10pm, they hold the Queen Victoria Night Market. This is something I highly recommend if you are in town on a Wednesday. The night market is totally different from the day market- at night they have dozens of street food stalls and artisans selling handmade crafts (whereas in the day it’s mostly souvenir-type stuff).

Tip: Make sure to check the opening hours of the Queen Victoria Market because they change the night market theme each season and it’s often closed for a week or two in between. It also closes at a different time each day.

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Southbank/South Melbourne

Southbank is basically a continuation of the CBD, just on the other side of the river. Southbank is characterized by high rise apartments, riverside bars and eateries, a lovely walking promenade, and the famous Crown Casino.

I actually began my Melbourne experience living in one of these high-rise apartments (33rd floor, baby!) and surprisingly adored it. So I got to know this area extra well.

I also have a specific Southbank Travel Guide – click to open it for later.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Melbourne’s royal botanic gardens are directly adjacent to Southbank, and these are DEFINITELY worth a visit. Trust me. Although slightly better in summer, they have blooms and beautiful gardens all year round.

The Melbourne royal botanic gardens are among some of the largest in the world, and you can truly get lost exploring them. You can also take a punt boat ride around the gardens’ lakes, and learn all about the ecosystems there.

Tip: Bring picnic supplies and set up under your favorite tree in the Royal Botanic Gardens on a nice day!

Shrine of Remembrance

Next to the Royal Botanic Gardens is a grandiose World War Memorial called the Shrine of Remembrance. It’s a massive concrete structure – about 4 stories tall – adorned with sculptures and a massive staircase.

You can go in the memorial and climb to the balcony level, which has one of my top 2 favorite views of the city skyline . You can also descend below the monument to visit the war museum – it was originally all about WW2 but now has info on Australian participation in a few other wars too.

NGV – National Gallery of Victoria

This is another MUST of the top Melbourne attractions.  The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is just across the Yarra from Flinders St station and is the most prominent art museum in the city.

The National Gallery of Victoria hosts exhibits from many well-known international artists and is constantly changing. Exhibits are usually free except for when a famous show comes through. Make sure to check what’s on for your visit.

Tip: They run NGV Friday Nights events during the summer and winter – with music, food, and drinks along with museum exhibits. 

State Theatre

Directly next to the National Gallery of Victoria (the building with the massive white spire on it that you can see from all over the city) is the State Theatre. This is one of the main places to view a play in Melbourne.

Melbourne is actually a massive city for theatre, and has dozens of theatres all around the city. If you’re into theatre, this is a great place to start!

Eureka Tower/Skydeck

The Eureka Tower is the 2nd tallest building in Australia, and the 4th in the Southern Hemisphere. It does have the highest viewing platform in the whole Southern Hemisphere, however – the Eureka Skydeck – which is the winner of my favorite view in Melbourne.

The Eureka Tower Skydeck takes up the entire 88th floor of the building, providing 360 degree views over the city. You can get drinks and snacks up top, and look through telescopes to get a bird’s eye view of any of your favorite Melbourne attractions.

I won’t lie – it’s definitely a touristy thing, but for the price, it’s 10000% worth checking out this view. You can book discounted tickets online too! It’s also a great place to visit for the New Year – you actually look DOWN on the fireworks!

Tip: arrive at the Eureka Tower about 30-40 mins before sunset. This gives you time to get up, enjoy the view in the daytime, perhaps catch one of Melbourne s best sunset views (over the ocean!), and then see the city when all the lights come on.

Southbank Promenade

The walking/biking path that runs along the river for the entirety of Southbank is known as the Southbank Promenade. Along this promenade, you’ll find some great vantage points to sit and relax along the river, and dozens of bumping bar-restaurants.

Walk down this promenade at any time of day and you’ll find full bustling venues and oftentimes street performers showing their stuff on the pathway.

Tip: My faves are Pure South (brunch) and Hopscotch (crafty beers and bites). 

Crown Casino

The Crown Casino is the largest casino in Australia – it’s like Melbourne attempting to channel a tiny bit of Vegas in the city 😉 They do a decent job of it, too – the Crown attracts all the high rollers, national and international, to some of their swanky restaurants and bars. One of their balcony bars famously shoots fire on the hour, every hour, at night – visible from all around.

Some of the most highly rated restaurants are also along the Crown’s Promenade, such as Gradi (Italian) and the ever-fancy Conservatory.

The Crown is also the most luxurious hotel in Melbourne. There are three hotels under the name, but if you want to go all-out, book a room at the Crown Towers.

DFO South Wharf + Melbourne Convention Center

If you need to do some shopping – the DFO at South Wharf is the place to go! There are tons of brand name outlets in a massive building here, that is connected to the Melbourne Convention Center which holds conferences nearly every weekend.

South Melbourne Market

South of Southbank, you have the suburb of South Melbourne. The highlight of this area is definitely the South Melbourne Market, which has fantastic and authentic varieties of street food and local produce. Pick up food to cook later or try any of dozens of small restaurants and food stalls. Open W-F-Sa-Su.

Tip: Check out the trendy coffee shop St Ali Coffee Roasters while you’re in the area – it roasts coffee for many Melbourne cafes.

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Carlton

Next, we’ve got the suburb directly north of the CBD: Carlton! Carlton is home to Melbourne University, the Royal Exhibition Building, and some notable parks, museums, and buildings. It’s walking distance from the CBD – in fact you can just keep walking to these points of interest from the last ones. Yep, in order!

Melbourne Museum

The Melbourne Museum is probably one of the most comprehensive places to visit in Melbourne to learn about history. There are lots of smaller museums around the city I have mentioned, but this is the kind of museum you could truly spend all day in.

Unfortunately this one is not free (it’ll set you back about $25 for an adult ticket, with concession and family prices too). But, it’s worth it!

Royal Exhibition Building

Next to the Melbourne museum within Carlton Gardens, you’ll find the historic Royal Exhibition Building. It’s a heritage-listed site, built-in 1880, and currently holds the title of one of the oldest exhibition pavilions in the world.

Nowadays, they hold all kinds of events at the Royal Exhibition Building, from cheese festivals to dog lovers festivals to car exhibitions and markets. Check if there’ anything on during your visit here. 

Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo is the closest place to the city to experience Australian wildlife. It’s just at the northern tip of Carlton and easily accessible via public transport. I recommend booking an entrance ticket with a kangaroo encounter so you can get up close and personal to the most famous Aussie animal while you’re there.

If you have more time, there are some fantastic animal sanctuaries outside the city I will mention below where you can also experience Australian wildlife. But if you don’t have much time, the Melbourne Zoo is definitely the place to go.

Lygon Street

Two words – LITTLE ITALY! Lygon Street will transport you to the streets of Italia with tables and chairs lining the cobbled sidewalk and waiters calling out to you to try their pizzeria or ristorante. 

This is the place to go for an authentic Italian meal. I’ll warn you that it most likely won’t be cheap, but it will be delicious, and many places are also BYO (hello, wine!).

Tip: My top recommendations are Tiamo, Brunetti, and Il Cantuccio.

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Fitzroy + Collingwood

Fitzroy and Collingwood are famously and lovingly known as “hipster Melbourne.” These two adjacent suburbs are where you need to go to find Melbourne’s ‘artsy’ side – complete with lots of street art, the trendiest cafes and eateries, and thrift/vintage stores to shop until you drop.

I also have an in-depth guide to this area and also a guide to the bars in the area with a map.

[irp posts=”12471″ name=”Things to Do in Fitzroy: Melbourne’s Hipster North Side”]

[irp posts=”12473″ name=”Fitzroy Bars: A Guide (+ Map) to the Best Brunswick St Bars and Beyond”]

Brunswick Street

Brunswick Street is the main street of Fitzroy, which could loosely be considered the even more hipster suburb of the two. The best way to make the most of Brunswick Street/Fitzroy as a whole is to take a leisurely walk down the street, allowing yourself to be pulled in whichever direction tickles your fancy.

Spot an awesome-looking shop? Go in. New beers on tap at a brewery? Try them. Cute little coffee shop? One flat white, please! See a rooftop bar? Someone show me to the stairs! 

I can, however, point you in the right direction for a lot of these things. 😉 Check my Fitzroy Guide for things to do, Best Brunch in Fitzroy , and Fitroy Bars.

Rose St Market + Fitzroy Mills Market

The Rose Street Market opens on weekends on, you guessed it, Rose Street. It runs from 10-4pm Saturdays and Sundays, with all kinds of artisans showing off their crafts. It would be a perfect trip to mix in with some brunch or croissants in the area.

The Fitzroy Mills Market is also on Rose St and has more produce than art, but is completely covered in street art.

Smith Street

Smith Street runs parallel to Brunswick Street, about a 10 minute walk east, and is actually itself the border between the suburbs of Fitzroy (west) and Collingwood (east). So it’s important to note that all Smith street activities can also be done in conjunction with Brunswick Street activities.

Smith Street has a similar vibe to Brunswick Street but with more shopping – think brand names like Kathmandu, Bonds, and more. These shops are peppered with other gems, too, also listed in my guides above.

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Abbotsford

Across Punt Road from Collingwood, you’ll find the lovely suburb of Abbotsford. Abbotsford is known for bordering the winding Yarra River, and also being the home of quite a few local breweries. It’s a bit more secluded of the places to visit in Melbourne, yet still close to everything… which is exactly why I love it!

I lived here for quite a while, and also have an in-depth guide to the best things to do, restaurants to eat at, and bars/breweries in Abbotsford below.

[irp posts=”12586″ name=”Abbotsford Melbourne: Things to Do, Eat, and Drink”]

Main Yarra Trail

The Main Yarra Trail is a run/walk/bike friendly trail that winds up and down next to the Yarra River for miles and miles. It is one of my favorite city escapes in Melbourne. Trust me, you’ll feel like you just entered the remote countryside far from civilization, and really be able to get back into nature.

Tip: After your walk, get a feed/coffee as some of my favorite joints: Au79 , Three Bags Full, or 8 Murray St.

Abbotsford Convent/Collingwood Farm + Market

Right along the Yarra river, Next to the Abbotsford Convent (which sometimes holds events, art exhibitions, festivals, and farmers markets), you’ll find a farm. This is when you REALLY feel like you are miles from the city!

The ‘Collingwood Children’s Farm’ has sheep, goats, cows, peacocks, and more available to pat each and every day, right next to the Main Yarra Trail. They have markets on the second Saturday of each month.

Tip: The Farm Cafe is a cute outdoor cafe on the farm. If you like vegan food, check out donation-based Lentils as Anything.

There are quite a few breweries along the Yarra river in Abbotsford. If you’re into beer, check out Carlton Brewhouse (for something a bit more mainstream) or Bodriggy, Moon Dog, or Stomping Ground for something a bit more crafty.

Tip: Is beer your thing? Lean in! Book a tour of the famous Carlton Brewhouse .

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Richmond + East Melbourne

South of Abbotsford (and directly east of the CBD), you’ll find Richmond. Richmond is quite a large suburb that is home to lots of residential areas, main streets with lots of shopping and venues, and essentially the middle ground between the ‘north side’ (Fitzroy/Collingwood/Brunswick) and the ‘South Side’ (South Yarra/Prahran/St Kilda etc).

East Melbourne is the suburb right between Richmond and the CBD. There’s not much going on, but all the main sporting parks are located here.

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Stadium

Sports fans, stop here! the Melbourne Cricket Ground is the largest stadium in the southern hemisphere, with a capacity to host over 100 thousand people. Wow! The National Sports Museum is also located here.

It hosts cricket matches during cricket season (Australian summer months – Dec-Feb). But all Melburnians get very excited whne March rolls around because that means it’s footy season! 

For anyone unfamiliar, the AFL (Australian football League) or “Aussie rules” as many call it, is a sport/league that started here in Victoria. It’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen called football before – trust me! If you’re here between March and September, make sure to attend a footy game in the MCG to get some true Aussie culture.

Tip: It’s very popular to take tours of the MCG. Book an affordable tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground stadium here .

Olympic Precinct

The Melbourne Cricket Ground isn’t the only stadium in East Melbourne. In fact there are 5 – giving Melbourne the title of “the only city in the world with 5 international-sized sporting stadiums within a 10 minute walk of the CBD.” That’s pretty special!

The entire precinct was built for the 1956 Olympics, and today holds the Rod Laver Arena, the AAMI Stadium, Margaret Court Arena, and the Melbourne Arena. If you’re around in January you can catch the Australian Open of Tennis here – the second largest in the world.

Tip: If you love sport, go all-out and book an all-day Melbourne Sports Lovers Tour visiting the MCG, Grand Prix track, Marvel Stadium, National Sports Museum, Flemington Racetrack, and more. 

Swan St + Bridge Rd

Although Richmond doesn’t have many specific landmarks to mention, it’s still important to list because it’s one of the most prominent Melbourne suburbs.

Take a stroll down Swan St or Bridge road to see tons of lively cafes, pubs, and bars that will be busy at any time of day. Swan Street is especially known for its shopping.

Tips: Check out the rooftop bar at Mt View Hotel for some drinks, and Top Paddock for brunch.

Cook’s Cottage – Fitzroy Gardens

Another of the popular attractions in Melbourne is Cook’s Cottage, located in the Fitzroy Gardens in East Melbourne. It actually was the cottage of the famous explorer Captain Cook (who landed on the East coast of Australia in the 1770’s).

This historical landmark was originally located in Yorkshire, UK, but was brought to Australia in the 1930’s and reconstructed in Fitzroy Gardens. It was rebuilt in exactly the same way – even with cuttings of the original ivy that lined the walls.

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Docklands

Okay so I’m going to be brutally honest with you guys – Docklands is NOT one of the COMPLETELY necessary places to visit in Melbourne. It’s funny – it’s right on the water and should have done really well as a suburb when they tried to build it up a few years ago, but it just kindof…. didn’t.  There are some cool restaurants and venues, but it’s just not of of the best things to visit in Melbs.

Either way, there are some important Melbourne attractions here that I must include, so here they are.

Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

The Melbourne Star is basically Melbourne’s version of the London Eye. It’s a big ferris wheel that looks out over the city skyline. I don’t think the view is as good as the Eureka Skydeck (as the foreground is very industrial in docklands) but it’s still really cool.

Book discounted tickets here! 

Marvel Stadium

The Marvel Stadium (previously the Etihad Stadium) is Melbourne’s other massive sporting arena other than the MCG. They hold many different sporting competitions and footy games here.

Tip: If you make it to a footy game, however, make sure to make it the MCG. Nothing against the Marvel Stadium, but the largest stadium in the southern hemisphere is a sight to behold! See both on a Melbourne Sports Lovers Tour.

Places to Visit in Melbourne: St Kilda

St Kilda is Melbourne’s loved local beach! Melburnians are aware that St Kilda beach may not be the nicest beach in the whole world… but its their beach and they still love it! 😛

It’s situated on a bay, so swimming is very possible – the water is just really shallow. The best part about St Kilda are the beachside bars and bustling community surrounding it. So read on for where to go in St Kilda from north to south.

St Kilda Pier + Penguins

The St Kilda pier is a big L-shaped pier that protects a small marina within it. This pier is famous because there’s a colony of ‘little penguins’ (yes, that’s what they’re called) that live there. These lil guys leave the rocks of the pier each morning around sunrise, and come back to burrow in for the night around sunset.

Tip: Arrive just before sunset, and wait at least 3o+ mins after the sun is gone for maximum penguin-age. Bring WARM clothes – it gets cold and windy out here. 

Catani Gardens

The Catani Gardens are some rolling grassy knolls next to the water. They often hold festivals and events, and are a fabulous place to have a summer picnic, too.

Each February, the St Kilda Festival – the largest free festival in Melbourne city – takes place on and around these gardens.

Luna Park is one of the best landmarks in Melbourne. It’s an iconic theme park right on the water, which is famous for the massive clown face entrance and for having one of the oldest wooden rollercoasters in the country.

Pop in on a weekend to do some rides, eat some bites, and have a classic Melbourne experience.

Acland Street is the main street of the Luna Park-end of St Kilda, complete with lots of cafes and restaurants. It’s most famously known to have a high concentration of delicious and authentic cake and pastry shops.

Tip: For a veggie brunch and some awesome flavored lattes, check out Matcha Mylk Bar. For drinks along the water, Captain Baxter is the go. 

St Kilda Esplanade Market: Sundays

If you venture to St Kilda on a Sunday, you can catch the amazing St Kilda Esplanade Market (and Luna Park – two birds with one stone!). This market has tons of artisans selling their handmade craft along the Esplanade each week. You never know what you might find!

Tip: After you shop till you drop, grab a drink/feed at “The Espy” Esplanade Hotel.

Places to Visit in Melbourne: South Yarra/Prahran

South Yarra and Prahran famously spearhead the scene of Melbourne’s ‘south side,’ which is known to have some luxurious bits but a fair bit of grunge as well… depending on where you go!

South Yarra is right across the river from Richmond, and has some of the nicest neighborhoods in the city. Prahran is a residential area centered around the famous Chapel Street.

Chapel Street

Chapel street runs through both South Yarra and Prahran, and is a well-known center for all things shopping (more in the north) and bars, restaurants and nightlife (more in the south). It runs for about 2km, with venues, shops, and bars lining it in its entirety.

Chapel Street is home to some of Melbourne’s most (in)famous nightclubs, such as Revolver Upstairs , which runs (literally) all weekend and hosts some famous dj’s, among many others. There are trendy bars on each corner and no shortage of delicious eats.

Kimmie’s Tips: Jungle Boy is a cool hidden bar where you enter through a fridge. Pawn & Co is half club, half Pawn Shop. Journeyman is great for brunch.

Prahran Market

About mid-way down Chapel Street you will find the Prahran market, which is yet another amazing Melbourne market. The Prahran market is a foodie paradise – with tons of different vendors selling delicious bites.

Places to Visit Near Melbourne – Melbourne Day Trips

Phew – finally done with all the places to go IN Melbourne Australia and closer suburbs. But, of course, there are many important Melbourne attractions that are outside of the city.

Luckily for you, I wrote a WHOLE POST of the most important Day Trips from Melbourne – read it by clicking below:

[irp posts=”12174″ name=”13 Must-See Day Trips from Melbourne – Victoria, Australia”]

For the sake of this post: I have listed what I consider the  MOST important places to visit outside of Melbourne below:

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is perhaps the most must-do day trip from Melbourne. Visit famous landmarks such as the twelve apostles, Port Campbell National Park,  and the Loch Ard Gorge along a rugged coastline.

It’s also popular to rent a car and do a road trip yourself. If you’d rather do that, I suggest trying my 2-3 day Great Ocean Road Itinerary and staying at some places recommended in my Great Ocean Road Accommodation Guide.

Yarra Valley Wine Region

There are many wine regions near Melbourne, but the Yarra Valley takes the cake. It’s got over 100 wineries, beautiful scenic rolling hills, and is only an hour drive from Melbourne city center.

Phillip Island Penguins

Sure, you can see penguins at the St Kilda Pier, but if you want to see HUNDREDS of them, you must see the renowned Phillip Island Penguin Parade! Out here, there’s a massive nature center set up perfectly for you to watch, yet not disturb, hundreds of ‘little penguins’ as they make their way to the land for the night.

Puffing Billy + Dandenong Ranges

Puffing Billy is an old-fashioned steam train the runs through the Dandenong Ranges. The Dandenong Ranges are beautiful mountains with amazing hikes and views – both only an hour drive from Melbourne. Or, you can book a day tour to the steam train and the area.

Visit the Mornington Peninsula

The Mornington Peninsula is a beautiful and lesser-known area to visit outside Melbourne. They have at least a dozen breweries and hundreds of wineries , and is also famous for many beaches to surf or relax . They have hot springs and some beautiful countryside too and many activities.

Visit a Music Festival

Victoria is famous for many music festivals all throughout the summer. Check out my list of the best bush doofs in Australia or check out Rainbow Serpent , Babylon , Beyond the Valley (for the new year), Strawberry Fields , and Pitch Festival – ass famous in Australia.

Enjoyed this Melbourne travel guide? Pinned it yet? 

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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

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• 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 – Where to go in Melbourne if you’re a beach lover

• 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 – Where to go 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!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

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.

Alexandria Zboyovski

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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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Travel , Things To Do

Things To Do In Melbourne 2024

Here is our 50 best things to do in Melbourne.

1. Federation Square

Federation Square is an artistic and creative hub of Melbourne not to be missed. It hosts over 2000 events a year! These include cultural festivals, event launches, exhibitions, performances, forums, films, concerts, and fashion shows - and most are free.

Take in the architecture of the precinct. Visit one of the cafes or eateries and enjoy the ambience of multicultural Melbourne.

Visit the galleries including Ian Potter Centre and the Australian Centre For The Moving Image, a world leading centre for experiencing the moving image in all its forms.

Enjoy the many events often held in Federation Square! Sit and watch film on the massive screen. In fact it's become a Melbourne thing to watch major sporting events on the big screen. Wander around the corner and enjoy the Yarra River.    Check out the view from St Paul’s Cathedral steps – surely one of the best views in Melbourne!

Walk around the corner for a meal at Gazi, visit restaurants on Flinders Lane, or check out the restaurants on nearby Flinders Lane. Check out Flinders St Station as iconic Melbourne architecture.  

2. St Kilda

St Kilda is an eclectic place with many attractions. Check out the Esplanade (while taking in the markets on a Sunday). Stroll along the Pier and grab an ice cream.

Take in Acland Street and the fine European cake establishments.  In fact many of Melbourne’s finest restaurants are in St Kilda, with many in Fitzroy and Acland Streets. Enjoy fine dining at great restaurants like Donovan's and The Stokehouse. Sit outside and take in the ambience at Cicciolina on Acland St.

Nearby Prahran Market is world class.

Travel nearby to Chapel St with amazing shopping, op shops and restaurants and cafes. Chapel St is one of the hottest food and fashion precincts in Melbourne. It is also a popular spot for op shoppers! You can shop for about 3 km! Check out great designers here including Allanah Hill and Collette Dinnigan, not to mention Ksubi.

Another attraction is the Prahran Market open Tues - Sunday except Wednesday. Here you can grab a great coffee at Market Lane Coffee.  

3. Crown Melbourne Casino

Crown Melbourne  is a popular Melbourne destination and a massive massive complex! Parking is reasonable and available in the huge car parks. Along with gaming the complex offers first rate restaurants and cafes and designer shopping.

This is a great place to come for fine dining with acclaimed restaurants like Rockpool Bar and Grill, The Atlantic for seafood, Rosetta for Italian, Nobu for Japanese/Korean fusion, Bistro Guillaume and Spice Temple, to name a few!

Spice it up at Spice Temple.

You find here a concentration of hatted fine dining, as well as casual eateries that are also impressive.  Crown Casino is a popular destination for entertainment events. The Palladium hosts many high profile events.

Accommodation is world class with impressive rooms and suites including Crown Metropol and Crown Towers.  Many of Melbourne's glamour events on the social calendar are held at Crown Casino.

  4. Southgate and Arts Precinct

Southgate is a great precinct to enjoy the Yarra River, fine shopping and great restaurants and cafes. One can walk back and forth across the various bridges over the Yarra to enjoy a great city ambience. Stroll along the promenade in Southgate. Stop and enjoy a coffee. Enjoy fine shopping. Then step into a fine resaurant for a gourmet experience.

Southgate is also the home of the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition. Around Southgate are Arts venues such as Hamer Hall, The Arts Centre, and NGV.

Some of Melbourne's best restaurants are to be found in Southgate including Pure South, Melba Brasserie, Hophaus Bier Bar Grill, The Meat and Wine Co., Koko, Tutto Bene, Red Emperor, World Restaurant and Bar and many others.  

  5. Yarra Valley

Allocate a day to spend in the glorious Yarra Valley!  Just a short drive from Melbourne  (under an hour) the Yarra is full of amazing lush scenery, world class wine centres, outdoor activities and great cafes and restaurants. See our Best Yarra Valley Wineries article...

Head out to Healesville and call in to Domain Chandon to see how the Moet and Chandon French connection do it in grand style! Sweeping views, spectacular grounds and facilities and excellent tours.

Then travel a short distance to Oakridge Winery and Restaurant for some of the best winery dining in Australia. You have to love a winery with spectacular views! 

Check out the amazing foodie haven at Innocent Bystander in Healesville, which features amazing wood oven pizzas, wine, cheeses, gourmet breads, and the sourdough fruit bread is a killer! Sit out on the deck or in the restaurant next to the winery. Even the menu for kids is gourmet!

Head to Levantine Hill for luxe dining or Bella Vedere for some Italian fine dining.  Check out Punt Road Wines along the way to the Yarra Valley Dairy – another foodie haven. Grab yourself a cheese tasting plate and enjoy the views.  Head out to Yering Station, a massive and impressive winery – which also offers foodies fine dining, wine and much more.

Yarra Glen is another great stop and it's worth checking out De Bortoli winery.  

6. Adventure Clues  -  Street Art Scavenger Hunt

If you’re visiting Melbourne for the culture, then you won’t want to miss out on all of the amazing street art on offer. Some pieces are a little hard to find, but well worth discovering. Adventure Clues    has a dedicated cryptic street art tour that leads you straight to all of the most famous pieces without wasting time. Adventure Clues tours are self-guided on your mobile and set out in scavenger hunt style, so you get to solve fun clues and learn more about each destination without the tour guide. There’s also a trail set in Fitzroy and Collingwood that leads you to hipster bars and cool locations – so there’s something for everyone here. Reasonably priced at $25 per person be sure to check Adventure Clues out if you’re looking for something fun and different.  

7.  Brunswick St   

Iconic Melbourne  precinct! The best thing about Brunswick St is the people. Here you will see people from all walks of life. Appreciate the social ambience even before you hit the shopping. 

Take a long stroll down Brunswick St  which is full of interesting and cool establishments, such as jazz, bookstores, cafes, giftware and alternative shops! This place rocks – on a recent visit here a group spent the whole day just visiting shops and cafes over only a few hundred metres!

Check out cafes like Stagger Lee's, Industry Beans (just off Brunswick St), and Madame Sousou. Not to mention internationally acclaimed bar Black Pearl, Indian eatery Mukka and vegan delight Smith & Daughters.

Brunswick St is a great place for vintage clothing. Relive the 80s! It’s also great for op shops.  A popular stop are the factory outlets – get yourself some bargain Allanah Hill.

Brunswick St has been used as a location in the filming of Australian television series such as Offspring and Rush.   

  8. Smith St, Collingwood

Smith St has been transformed in recent years to be a trendy precinct full of fashion, great cafes and restaurants and boutique stores.

  Check out Lost and Found, an amazing second hand store with several levels of wares where treasures can be found.

  A must is to take a diversion to nearby Proud Mary, one of Melbourne’s finest cafes in a renovated warehouse.

  For fine dining check out  Saint Crispin also a hatted sensation. Or grab a gourmet burger from Huxtaburger (one of Melbourne's best), pizza from Bontempo, and savour the vegetarian delights of Smith & Daughters and Vegie Bar.

  Further down Smith St are some factory outlets including Nike and Adidas.  Also cool to duck out to the Abbotsford Convent nearby and check out the architecture and cafes.   

  9. SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium , along the banks of the Yarra River, is one of the best loved destinations in Melbourne! It is a world class aquarium!

  Not just for kids, but kids love this place! It’s easy to spend several hours here! Image: Sea Life Facebook.

  A striking exhibit is the penguin display – including large King Penguins and the Gentoo Penguins. To see these animals swimming is fantastic. To watch events at feeding time is breathtaking!

  Other highlights include displays such as River to Reef, Rockpool, Mangrove and Billabong. Some displays are interactive, and creatively put together!

  The upstairs Deck Café is a pleasant way to enjoy refreshments along the way!    The main exhibit is the large oceanarium which features sharks including the Grey Nurse! It is a magnificent exhibit and bound to enthral.  

10. Bourke St Mall and Melbourne Central  

Bourke Street Mall and Melbourne Central are two of the major shopping hubs of Melbourne. Enjoy the Bourke St Mall - a bustling and attractive precinct. Plenty of designer brands here including popular Myer and David Jones and overseas retailers like Zara.

Bourke St Mall has one of the best vibes in Melbourne and at lunchtimes it is usually packed with people and eclectic. Even then you can duck into a laneway cafe and escape the throngs.

The GPO precinct along Bourke St showcases some great upmarket shopping and houses the iconic Federal Coffee Palace. There is also great coffee nearby in Little Bourke St and surrounding laneways.

Melbourne Central is only a short distance away and offers a great shopping and dining experience. Once again there is great parking, especially if you can score an early bird park. Not only that you can travel down to the train station with lines out to most of Melbourne – so convenient! So many shops. So many eateries. And a big clock!    

  11.  City Circle Tram / Free City Trams

The City Circle Tram is a great free service that is an outstanding way to see and move around the city. It's one of the great attractions of the CBD. For a start these trams are historical themselves and exude a charm.  They travel around the CBD and take in some great views of Melbourne. You can get on and travel a couple of stops then get back on again later.

The City Circle Tram enables you to visit some of Melbourne's best known attractions including Old Melbourne Jail, the Melbourne Acquarium, Parliament House, Federation Square, the Immigration Museum and Marvel Stadium.

The City Circle Tram runs every 12 minutes between 10am and 6pm on Sunday to Wednesday and between 10am and 9pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday (except Good Friday and Christmas Day).  

12. Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo is a world class Zoo and an exciting place to visit! It’s also Australia’s oldest zoo.  It's easy to spend several hours there wandering around the various precincts. Upon arrival grab a map of the zoo then plan your visit. There are regular feeding times and other attractions.

You can appreciate 320 species at the Melbourne Zoo and enjoy several hours of fascination and excitement! A highlight is the Butterfly House – a tropical enclosure full of butterflies that fly all around you and some may settle on you! There has been a move for kids for free on weekends.    Image: Melbourne Zoo Facebook

  13.  Rod Laver Arena

One of the best complexes in Australia! Popular for sporting events like The Australian Open as well as for concerts and large events! Arrange to attend an event here or go on a tour! Check out the tournament control room, players change room, inside the arena, the superbox, the Davis Cup room and Media Theatrette.

Rod Laver Arena really comes alive in January during the Australian Open Tennis Tournament. The event is one of the hottest on the international sporting calendar and tickets sell out fast.   

  14. Great Ocean Road

Within striking distance of Melbourne the Great Ocean Road is another fantastic day trip! You can wind your way through some legendary town and stop at some great beaches, such as Bells Beach (famous for pro surfing) and Torquay. Image: Visit Great Ocean Road Facebook.

  15. Phillip Island

A real favourite is Phillip Island! Known for its amazing Penguin Parade Visitor Centre and racing with the Moto GP every year, there is plenty to offer on the island! There are some great tourist destinations like Nobby’s which showcases some spectacular coastline. You can also enjoy the world class Penguin Parade! Some great little beaches are to be discovered. In Cowes you find great dining and shopping.

The MCG is one of the world’s most famous sporting grounds! Take in a game of local football, the AFL where the matches are fierce and the crowds enormous! Or there may be cricket on display! Excellent museum to check out. The MCG is close to the CBD and is often called the “people’s stadium”. Do the MCG Tour - highly recommended.

17. Eureka Skydeck 88  

This place has the wow factor! On a good day this incredible 360 degree view on the 88th floor is incredible! See if you can point out various landmarks around the city!

Eureka Skydeck 88 has the best views of Melbourne, by day and by night. During the day you can see all the way out to the Dandenong Ranges.

There is also “The Edge”, an experience of being in a glass cube 3 metres out from the building and 300 metres suspended above the ground.

You can also step out onto “The Terrace” exposing yourself to the elements.

There are 30 viewfinders around the Skydeck floor so you can point out landmarks! See how you go! There a kid friendly heights with the viewfinders to assist kids.

It gives kids (and adults of course) a great perspective of Melbourne! Opening hours are 10am to 10pm, with Christmas Day and New Years Eve close at 5.30pm (last entry at 5pm).   Image: Eureka Skydeck 88 Facebook.

http://www.eurekaskydeck.com.au/  

18. Docklands

Attractions include the Melbourne Star, urban art sculptures, cool bridges, restaurants, cafes and shopping. A great place to shop and dine, including factory outlets and The District precinct.  Popular restuarants include Berth, Pok Pok, Kobe Jones, Byblos and The Hoff. Check out Marvel Stadium with the roof that closes!

Harbour Town Shopping Centre is popular for discounted shopping as well as specialty shopping. It also has a place to drop off the kids to have fun while you do your shopping.

Costco is also a popular retail establishment with a massive shopping complex. Or check out the DFO South Wharf for bargains. South Wharf nearby has some great restaurants including Munich Brauhaus, BangPop, and The Boatbuilders Yard.  

19. Old Melbourne Jail

Step into the history of crime and justice, with some of Australia’s most notorious criminals having spent time here since the 1840s. The Old Melbourne Jail is on the edge of the city near the State Library of Victoria. 

Home to Melbourne's oldest prison, historic Magistrate's Court and former Police City Watch House, Russell Street has been the heart of crime, law and order in Melbourne since the 1840's.

Most of Australia's infamous characters, including the iconic bushranger Ned Kelly and notorious gangster Squizzy Taylor have spent time within the walls of this amazing precinct. Today the award-winning tourism attraction is an opportunity to step back in time and walk the road to the gallows in a 19th century prison; or be arrested in a modern-day Police Station and put yourself on trial in court.

A ticket to the Old Melbourne Gaol, Crime and Justice Experience grants you visiting rights to the past, present and future of crime and justice in Australia.  

  20. Queen Victoria Market

One of the world's best markets and a must visit in Melbourne. Highly recommend the tour! Great value and a perfect way to connect with Queen Victoria Market, the largest open air market in the southern hemisphere. 

Popular with locals and tourists alike for bargains! Also boasts quality fresh produce in abundance. Love the buzz early in the mornings! This is a Melbourne institution and I know people who've been coming here for decades.

Many come for the stalls and bargains on belts and leather jackets which is cool. All kinds of unique products are sold here! Something for everyone!

Frankly, I'm also a big fan of the gourmet offerings here. It's not hard to part with lots of cash when you see all the cheeses and meats and olives and specialist coffees.... And so it goes on.

Large parking area is great or simply catch a train to Melbourne Central or Flagstaff and walk.

Also check out the fine establishments serving great coffee including Market Lane Coffee who opened up across the road. I had one of the best coffees in my life there sourced from a farm in El Salvador.

21.  Heidi Museum of Modern Art & Garden

A great place to visit for a cultural and culinary fix. Heide Museum of Modern Art is a popular attraction and it takes several hours to wander the galleries and grounds. Admire the sculptures and the gardens including the herb garden. Take in the 3 sites of the gallery and its exhibitions. This place has an amazing history concerning the formative days of Australian art. Then when you've enjoyed a cultural feast visit the Cafe Vue Heide for a classy gourmet meal and a drink. Heide Museum of Modern Art is also popular for a picnic on the lawns. And it's only a short drive along the Eatern freeway to get to Heide Museum of Modern Art.

http://www.heide.com.au/

  22. National Gallery of Victoria

Incredible place to spend a day! Open in 1861 this is Australia’s oldest art gallery. NGV is full of exceptional art and excellent exhibitions. One of the best galleries in Australia! I’ve been known to spend hours here with my family. Features arts covering the Eastern and Western hemispheres. Ancient and modern! The fine arts and applied decorative ones! Spend time both on St Kilda Road for the European collection and in Federation Square for the Australian collection.

Most of the gallery is free with some exhibitions incurring a charge (often with unlimited access).

http://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/  

23. Scienceworks

A favourite place for children in Melbourne! Learning about science and technology! Scienceworks is only 5km from Melbourne in Spotswood! Hands on participation is the order of the day! Live demonstrations, shows, guided tours and special activities! Speak to kids all over Melbourne and they love coming here! It’s fun! It’s educational! It’s clever! It’s interactive! Scienceworks itself is great but there’s always added exhibitions next door. Plus the Planetarium is a big hit! There’s also shows and events in the round outdoor theatre.   Image: Scienceworks Facebook.

Great catering at the venue but personally I love to go to nearby great cafes like Duchess of Spotswood and The Cornershop in Yarraville.

http://museumvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/

  24. Royal Botanic Gardens

World class gardens! Incredible landscaped gardens are impressive to people of all ages. One of Victoria’s most popular tourist attractions with more than 1.5 million visitors each year! On a sunny Melbourne day it's just sensational to stroll around the Royal Botanic Gardens. And the gardens are massive! To explore them in full takes many hours. Enjoy the feature lakes. Enjoy the wide expanses of green lawn. Features 10,000 plants from all around the world! Includes The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden which is extremely popular, as well as a Tropical Hothouse. Your kids will love the Children's Garden - bamboo hideaways, sand, water, a lookout and more. Enjoy one of the guided walks! The Royal Botanic Gardens also has two cafes. Open every day of the year from 7.30am to sunset!

http://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/  

25. Werribee Open Zoo

  Another great favourite of children in Melbourne. This zoo is African themed as is located about 32 km out of Melbourne in Werribee. You can take a safari bus tour in the Open Range Zoo. The tour takes about 45 minutes. The safari tour includes hippo, animals of the grassland such as zebra and waterbuck, giraffe, ostrich, and rhinoceros, as well as the camel and the oryx.  Also lions, meerkats and much more! There is also a simulated African Village.  Image: @melbourneandwerribeezooevents Instagram.

http://www.zoo.org.au/WerribeeOpenRangeZoo

26. Melbourne Museum

A world class Museum that is also a favourite of children. Located in the Carlton Gardens opposite the Royal Exhibition Building!  It’s easy to spend hours here without being bored. I know people who aren’t keen on Museums but love this one! The permanent displays are first class over 8 galleries (including one for children) and there’s new displays regularly. Kids love it in the sand pit! Highlights include a complete skeleton of a blue whale, the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, a living rainforest, and the racehorse Phar Lap! Major international exhibitions are in the Touring Hall! Also next door is the IMAX so you can combine the two visits. The cost of visiting the Museum is reasonable for families.  Image: Melbourne Museum Facebook.

http://museumvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/  

26. City Circle Tram

What a service! Free trams running in a circular route in the CBD through many tourist attractions – with trams running in both directions every 12 minutes! Sensational! Great for tourists and locals alike! The beauty is to get on an off when you please as the service runs so regularly. A great part of the service is the tourist  presentation as you travel! On some occasions there will be a guide who dispenses with the recorded service and goes freestyle!  Image: Instagram @mprageemn on @theworldlovesmelbourne.

http://www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au/route/view/1112

27. Immigration Museum

 Melbourne is one of the most multicultural cities in the world! The Immigration Museum is a magnificent building on Flinders Street. This is a celebration of immigration. It celebrates people who have moved to Melbourne from all over the world! Located in the Old Customs House in the heart of the city! It brings to life the stories of people with moving images, personal and community voices, memories and memorabilia.

http://museumvictoria.com.au/immigrationmuseum/

28. Dandenong Ranges

One of the great spots of Melbourne only 45 minutes from the CBD. Take a picnic or stop at a great café. Enjoy the hills environment of ferns and huge Mountain Ash trees. There’s lots of spectacular scenery as you wind through the Ranges and check out the view below! Go to iconic towns like Sassafras and Olinda and Kalista! Check out great cafes like Ripe or Miss Marple in Sassafras. Take a stroll through the main street. Enjoy craft stores, artist studios and plant nurseries. Enjoy the great gardens of the Dandenong Ranges! The kids will love a trip on Puffing Billy – one of Australia’s favourite steam trains! ! Journey to Sky High at Mount Dandenong. Here are spectacular views of Melbourne and great gardens to enjoy. http://www.experiencethedandenongs.com.au/  

  29. Museum of Chinese Australian History

Another important part of our history located in the heart of Chinatown. The Museum has 5 floors and is a large museum. 

Located in the heart of Melbourne's Chinatown, the Chinese Museum's five floors include a Chinatown Visitor Centre, a Dragon Gallery displaying three generations of Chinese dragons, the "Finding Gold" below-ground experience, Australia's 200-year Chinese history told through artefacts as well as the story of recent arrivals from all parts of the Asia Pacific region since the 1950s.

View international and local exhibitions, cultural events and contemporary art shows in the temporary exhibition gallery.  Take your kids on a treasure hunt through the Museum or learn about the rich history of the Chinatown on a Heritage Walk.

As a national museum, the Chinese Museum reasearches, conserves and promotes the built, social and economic contribution the Chinese community has made to Australia.

Celebrating the Chinese contribution to Australia!

http://www.chinesemuseum.com.au/

30. Flinders Street Station

This is one of the most iconic attractions of Melbourne. Australia’s oldest train station! Amazing architecture including the famous domed clock tower! Over 100,000 people use the station everyday!

The steps at the main entrance under the famous domed clock tower are a popular meeting place for Melburnians.  The station concourse is a ticketed area on the ground level. Lifts and escalators on the concourse lead down to the platforms.  Flinders Street Station has services and facilities to assist metropolitan and regional passengers.

For me the best view in Melbourne is from the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral looking out to Flinders St Station, Federation Square and other attractions. There are some great cafes in and around the station, including short walk to iconic Degraves street.

Flinders Street Station also looks amazing at night and is prominent on the Melbourne landscape.  

  31. State Library of Victoria

One of the best libraries in Australia. The complex is impressive with library moving into the 21 st century! The architecture of the library is amazing! Many people love to also sit out on the lawns in front of the library on a sunny day. This library has great resources and many stations to connect with the internet. There are many exhibitions, events, classes, workshops, and so much more… Experimedia room is an amazing place to experiment with digital media, as well as being a great function room.

The Dome is an amazing structure to be appreciated inside the library!

  http://www.slv.vic.gov.au/  

32. Collins Street and  Block Arcade

Perhaps the most famous Melbourne shopping street is Collins Street, home to high end jewellery (including Georg Jensen, Makers Mark, Bvlgari, Jan Logan, Rutherford and Tiffany & Co), high end fashion (Cose Ipanema, Husk, Herringbone, Hugo Boss and the legendary appointment-only boutique Le Louvre), shoes and luxury goods (such as Ralph Lauren, Hermes, Chanel, Gucci, Bally, Salvatore Ferragamo and Louis Vuitton).   

There is also shopping complexes such as Collins Place, Georges on Collins, Collins two3four and  Australia on Collins , which feature fashion, home wares and gift stores.

Block Arcade forms a laneway between Collins St and Little Collins St. The arcade which was erected between  1891  and  1893 was designed by architect David C. Askew whose brief was to produce something similar to the Galleria Vittoria in Milan . The result was one of Melbourne's most richly decorated interior spaces, replete with mosaic tiled flooring, glass canopy, wrought iron and carved stone finishings. Block Arcade is one of Australia's best surviving examples of the Victorian Mannerist style.

Over 30 boutique shops include Haigh’s Chocolates, Melbourne-based Douglas & Hope (fashion and homewares), various fashion, jewellery and specialty shops.

Great cafes abound including the popular Hopetoun Tearooms which ooze elegance and charm, Café D’Uomo and Brown Sugar.

The Collins Street entrance is only a minutes walk from Flinders St Station.

http://www.theblockarcade.com.au/

33. The Regent Theatre

  One of the iconic theatres of Australia since 1929! Come to Collins Street and see a performance here! It was wonderfully restored in recent years and is a breathtaking venue.

The landmark Regent Theatre holds a key part in our city’s history since opening as a grand picture palace in 1929. Having survived a fire, a flood, twenty years in darkness and many threats of demolition to turn the magnificent theatre into a car park or tabaret, the venue reopened in August 1996 meticulously refurbished and returned to its breathtaking former glory.

Today it stands more lavish and grand than ever and continues to host some of the world’s most renowned theatre productions including Disney’s The Lion King, We Will Rock You, Sunset Boulevard, Wicked, Priscilla Queen of the Desert – The Musical and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Love Never Dies.

http://www.marrinergroup.com.au/  

34. Lygon Street

King and Godfree Rooftop is one of the most popular bars in Melbourne.

Iconic strip full of great cafes and restaurants running through Carlton, Carlton North and Brunswick East. It owes much to the Italian migrants. It’s known for the Italian restaurants but is also becoming more diverse. It was the first Melbourne precinct to promote outdoor dining with tables and chairs on the pavement! Great on a balmy summers evening! I enjoy places like Brunetti which is iconically Melbourne, 400 Gradi, as well as Carlton Espresso for a great Italian experience. And I love Ying Thai II for Thai cuisine. The Carlton Food Store is a winner and the list goes on.

Lygon Street has been transformed substantially since the 1970s and 1980s where the cuisine was predominantly Italian and Greek. These cusines still feature but recent years have seen the addition of other cusines notably Asian and Indian cusine.

Lygon Street has a great ambience with not just it's restaurants and cafes but also its boutique shopping.   

35. Marvel Stadium

Sporting lovers enjoy checking out this great multi purpose complex only minutes from the CBD! It’s the only complex in the Southern Hemisphere with a retractable roof! You can arrange to go on a tour. Or even hold a conference here! Of course attending an AFL fixture is a great Aussie thing to do!

The stadium is one of the major venues for AFL football and regularly sees large crowds of around 50,000 football lovers. It's one of the best stadiums to view sport - with the feeling you are never far from the action. The facilities at this stadium are also excellent for patrons and there is ample parking under the stadium or a short walk from Southern Cross Station.  

http://www.etihadstadium.com.au/  

36. Chapel Street

  Chapel Street is known to be one of the best fashion strips (if not the best) in Australia! It provides designer chains but also unique boutique experiences.

 Popular stores include French Connection, Sportsgirl, Cue, Mimco, Witchery, and Alannah Hill. Also check out Portobello Lane for divine jewellery, Mac for cosmetics, Louis Epstein for great jeans, Indigo Boutique and Eurotrash (eccentric selling vintage couture). Also Linda Black provides vintage accessories, shoes and clothing.

The Chapel St Bazaar is a classic featuring haberdashery, homewares and fashion, with hidden gems to be had!

Chapel St is a precinct where you can easily spend a day! Or two! Chapel St is also a popular spot for op shoppers!

St Kilda itself is an eclectic place with many attractions! Check out the Esplanade (while taking in the markets on a Sunday). Stroll along the Pier and grab an ice cream.

Take in Acland Street and the fine European cake establishments.  In fact many of Melbourne’s finest restaurants are in St Kilda, with many in Fitzroy and Acland Streets. Enjoy fine dining at great restaurants like Prince Dining Room.

http://www.chapelstreet.com.au/

37. Old Treasury Building

This is a great place to visit and it's free.  Another building with awesome architecture, the Old Treasury building has treasures inside! Regarded as one of the best and iconic buildings of the 19 th Century.

The Old Treasury building was designed by nineteen-year-old architect JJ Clark and built between 1858 and 1862.

Check out the original gold vaults where the gold bullion was stored. Also historic public documents and Ned Kelly’s “Euroa” letter are highlights. I recommend visiting cafes and restaurants on nearby Spring St or Collins St such as The European, the City Wine Bar or even high tea at The Windsor. 

http://www.oldtreasurybuilding.org.au/

38. Hosier Lane

Internationally acclaimed street art!  And street art is extremely popular and fashionable. This is such a cool place to visit and is considered “very Melbourne”. Melbourne is famous for it’s laneways and this is one of the best! Check out the street art all down this bluestone cobbled pedestrian laneway. One of the most photographed streets in Melbourne! Also some great restaurants and cafes nearby like Movida or Movida Next Door. And also close to Flinders Lane restaurants.  

39. Flinders Lane

Arguably the best dining strip in Melbourne! When people ask me where to dine in Melbourne I often direct them to Flinders Street which is full of to dining options! Places like Cumulus Inc., Tonka, Pastuso, Supernormal, Ezard, Cecconi’s, Chin Chin, Coda, and others are some of Melbourne’s best restaurants. Flinders Lane is a trendy street of food, but also fashion and culture.

Some of the old building of yesteryear have been demolished including at one stage the third tallest building in the world (built 1889).

Flinders Lane also connects with other iconic Melbourne lanes such as Hosier Lane, Manchester Lane and ACDC Lane.

Also home to several boutique hotels.  

40. Australian Centre for The Moving Image

A celebration of moving image in all it’s forms! The Australian Centre for The Moving Image is a great way to spend several hours. It's educational and it's fun and at times interactive. Immerse yourself in a world of film, television and digital culture! For many its a trip down nostalgia lane with footage of early Australian TV shows and imagery. Who remembers Skippy and even Astro Boy? Or films like Picnic at Hanging Rock? You can even sit down for a game on Wii. Award winning Australian and international exhibitions, films, festivals, live events, creative workshops, education programs and Collection resources, allows audiences to engage with the moving image! A permanent exhibition charts the journey of the moving image. Entry is free to some exhibitions.

  http://www.acmi.net.au/  

41. St Pauls Ca thedral

Iconic structure in the heart of the city. You’ll often find people here for quiet reflection and prayer during the day. At times you can hear the bells ringing which is a real treat. Inside the Cathedral is some interesting history. And from the steps is one of the best views in Melbourne!

http://www.stpaulscathedral.org.au/  

42. Southgate

  Southgate is a vibrant shopping, restaurant and entertainment precinct along the banks of the Yarra River. The centre is directly opposite Flinders Street Station. Enjoy a stroll and appreciate the ambience.   Restaurants such as Pure South and Asado Argentinian Bar & Grill impress.

http://www.celebratesouthgate.com.au/

  43. Australian Formula One Grand Prix

For racing enthusiasts the place to be is March in Melbourne!   Watch the cars race around the Albert Park Circuit! Also great for after the race as the venue is close to the city! Image from article on Jenson Button and Fernando Alonso at Chandon Winery.  

http://www.grandprix.com.au/

44. Cooks Cottage and Fitzroy Gardens

  The Fitzroy Gardens are first class and it's worth just wandering around them and admiring the flower gardens, pathways, stately trees and lush lawns!

For history lovers check out Cook's Cottage. Captain Cook may have lived in the cottage during his boyhood. It was purchased and shipped to Melbourne and given as a gift to the people. It’s a cottage that commemorates Cook’s voyages. It’s a great historical site giving us an idea of life in the 1700’s. The Fitzroy Gardens are delightful and contain some excellent flower beds and impressive trees. It’s great just walking through the gardens. The location is great and in proximity to the rest of the city if you want to do more for the day!

http://www.thatsmelbourne.com.au/PlacesToGo/CooksCottage/Pages/Cookscottage.aspx  

45. Grainger Museum

Percy Grainger was an internationally acclaimed Australian-American pianist and composer and a genius. A quirky eccentric genius! The Grainger Museum is a great piece of history. Percy is the guy who wrote “English Country Garden” and maybe surprisingly invented something of an early synthesizer. Fascinating for music lovers and history buffs!  Image: @graingermuseum on Instagram.

http://www.grainger.unimelb.edu.au/

  46. The Arts Centre

Melbourne has a great Arts Centre in Southbank! One of the most recognisable landmarks on the Melbourne landscape is the spire of The Arts Centre. This place is world class. It’s a great place to come and appreciate the performing arts! There are multiple theatres and arts spaces including Hamer Hall, State Theatre, The Playhouse, Fairfax Studio and Galleries. Also enjoy the great cafes/bar/restaurants. The Arts Centre also hosts many Australian and international performances and production companies. Great place to catch The Australian Ballet when in season. 

The Sidney Myer Music Bowl is also an Arts Centre Melbourne venue and in 2009 celebrated its 50th anniversary.  

http://www.artscentremelbourne.com.au/  

47. Warrandyte and Warrandyte State Park

Great place to take children and for all to enjoy!  A short drive out of Melbourne out to Warrandyte is worth the trip. Great cafes with playgrounds near the river, is popular with families. Check out the Warrandyte Bakery in Yarra Street and surrounding precinct by the river. Take your lunch to a nearby table or go down to the river and visit the ducks. There's a popular walk along the river here and it can get busy on a Sunday afternoon. Children seem to really enjoy this precinct. The park itself is the closest state park to the Melbourne CBD. It's fun to even stroll around Warrandyte town and visit some unique shops.  

http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/warrandyte-state-park  

48.  Mornington  Peninsul  

A great day trip is to visit the Mornington Peninsula! Check out the beaches! Enjoy the top class wineries. Drive all the way to Sorrento and walk the main street with awesome cafes and shops! Stop by on the beach at Sorrento! Head to Red Hill on the way back.

49. Parliament House

  For those interested in architecture and politics! Go on a public tour! You may even get to sit in the Speakers Chair! Check out the Upper and Lower Houses.  

Parliament House Melbourne is one of Australia's oldest and most architecturally distinguished public buildings. Building commenced in 1856 at the height of the gold rush and this is reflected in the lavish use of gold in the interior decoration.

http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/  

50. Melbourne Town Hall

Iconic structure in Melbourne! Enjoy a free tour of this grand 19 th Century building. Check out the organ with 10,000 pipes. The nearby City Square is a great place to relax with a coffee! Image: Facebook (Open House promotion).

http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/AboutMelbourne/History/TownHallHistory/Pages/MelbourneTownHallHistory.aspx

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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 .

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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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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.

CNT Editors

Todd Plummer

Caitlin Morton

Lale Arikoglu

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.

The 21 Best Things to Do in Melbourne

Melbourne is one of the funkiest cities in Australia . From its cool architecture to its robust art scene with hip cafés and music, Melbourne is often considered the cultural capital of Australia. Its narrow lanes, covered in world-class street art, hide beautiful cafés and beer gardens.

The city and I mix well together and it’s my favorite spot in the country. With plenty of culture, activities, art exhibitions, and live music, you could easily spend over a week here and not get bored.

Melbourne has a European feel to it and is popular with backpackers and young travelers looking to enjoy its laid-back vibe.

With so much to see and do, I wanted to share my list of the best things to do in Melbourne to help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this fun city!  

1. Take a Street Art Tour

If you’re on a tighter budget, take a free walking tour around the city instead. I’m Free Walking Tours offers a couple of different free walking tours that will give you a fun and educational introduction to the city and its history. You’ll learn a lot about the city and get access to an expert local guide who can answer any questions you have. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!  

2. Catch a Moonlight Movie in the Park

During the summer, there are nightly movies (most of them major Hollywood features) in the Royal Botanic Gardens. You can bring your own food and drinks (including alcohol) and have a cozy picnic while watching some great movies. Think of it like going to the drive-in but without the car. Just make sure to check the weather in advance and to bring a blanket to sit on as well as a sweater (it can get a little chilly sometimes). They will cancel if it rains a lot but not if it’s light rain so be sure to bring a rain jacket (or reschedule) if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Central Lawn Royal Botanic Gardens. For dates and times, visit moonlight.com.au. Tickets start at 25 AUD.  

3. Wander Queen Victoria Market

This outdoor market is the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere. Made up of both indoor and outdoor areas and occupying two entire city blocks, it’s a mix of food sellers and knick-knack vendors — think flea market meets food market. During the week, the food hall is the main draw, but the weekend offerings are bigger as sellers fill up the outdoor vending space.

When you’re in the food hall, be sure to get some free wine samples from Swords Wines; the staff is friendly and the wine is cheap (I bought two bottles for some afternoon drinking in the park!). And don’t miss the jam donuts either. They’ve been a staple there for over 50 years!

And during warmer months, don’t miss the Summer Night Market. This popular night market runs every Wednesday from 5pm-10pm (November 23-March 15). Free to enter, there is live music as well and tons of different food stalls, from dumplings to gyros, burritos, ice cream, BBQ, and more.

Queen St, +61-3-9320-5822, qvm.com.au. Check the website for seasonal hours and events.  

4. Visit the State Library of Victoria

328 Swanston St, +61 3-8664-7000, slv.vic.gov.au. Open 10am-6pm.  

5. Take the City Circle Tram

The City Circle Tram is a free hop-on/hop-off service between Melbourne’s sightseeing attractions. The route includes Federation Square, the Old Treasury Building, Parliament House, and the Princess Theater. There’s a running recorded commentary as you pass or stop at a place of historical, cultural, or architectural significance. It’s a free, fun way to see the main sights and get a feel for the city without having to spend any money!

The tram operates from daily 9:30am-6pm (9pm Thursday-Saturday).  

6. Relax in Federation Square

Right along the route of the free City Circle train and across the street from Flinders Street Station lies Federation Square. Opened in 1968, this open square spans around 8 acres and serves up stellar people-watching. I like to take lunch here and just watch the city go by. Below the square on the river are also a number of restaurants and outdoor bars. In the summer, there are often all kinds of different events here as well.  

7. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

Located in Federation Square, the National Gallery of Australia is the largest, oldest, and most-visited art museum in the country (over 3 million people visit each year). It’s home to over 75,000 works including modern and contemporary art, sculptures, paintings, and works from aboriginal and indigenous artists. You can see pretty much everything in a couple hours. It’s one of the best free activities in the city.

180 St Kilda Rd, +61 3-8620-2222, ngv.vic.gov.au. Open daily 10am-5pm. Admission is free (temporary exhibits may have an additional charge).

8. Wander the Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens covers 86 acres and is home to over 8,500 different plant species including flowers, shrubs, and trees from across the country and around the world. Hanging out here and wandering around is one of my favorite activities in Melbourne. It’s walking distance from the city center and is a nice place to spend some time strolling around, relaxing, and reading. Free guided walks or self-guided audio tours are also available from the main visitors center.

Birdwood Ave, +61 3-9252-2300, rbg.vic.gov.au. Open daily from 7:30am-5pm. Admission is free.  

9. Admire Flinders Street Station

10. Enjoy the Café Scene

While I’m not a coffee drinker (tea all the way!), even I could see that the café and coffee culture in this city is part of its soul. Everyone here loves to have coffee and a snack while doing work or chatting in some arty café. Try a Melbourne ‘Magic’ which is their version of a flat white; it has espresso coffee, but less added milk than a cafe latte and way less foam than a cappuccino. The Flat White was supposedly (this is disputed by Kiwis) invented in Sydney and this is Melbourne’s version.

You can also take a café tour with Café Culture Walk to learn more about why Melbournians love their cafés so much and then spend an afternoon with a good book at your new favorite spot.  

11. See the Como House and Gardens

Over 160 years old, this regal estate blends a mix of classic Italianate architecture and Australian regency. It’s considered the best of the historic houses in the city and offers a rare glimpse at the luxurious and opulent life of high society in 19th-century Australia. Guided tours are available for 15 AUD if you want to learn more about this beautiful mansion and its history.

Williams Rd &, Lechlade Ave, +61 3-9656-9889, nationaltrust.org.au/places/como-house-and-garden. Gardens are open Monday-Saturday from 9am-4pm and Sundays from 10am-4pm. Admission to the gardens is free.  

12. Visit the Immigration Museum

Founded in 1998, The Immigration Museum is located in the Old Customs House and features exhibitions about Australia’s immigration history. Europeans started flocking to the country in 1788, bringing with them their own cultures that eventually swept the island and displaced the aboriginal peoples who called the island home for over 50,000 years. I really enjoyed learning about the people who left their homes to move across the known world, undertaking the risky voyage and uprooting their entire lives.

400 Flinders St, +61 3-8341-7777, museumsvictoria.com.au/immigrationmuseum. Open daily from 10am-5pm. Admission is 15 AUD.  

13. Hit the Beach

14. Party in St. Kilda

If you’re looking to enjoy Melbourne’s famous nightlife, head to St. Kilda. The area is home to tons of inexpensive restaurants, bars, and clubs. If you want to find Melbourne’s wild side, this is where it will be. ( Nomads Melbourne is one of my favorite places to go party if you want to hang out with other travelers — and a few locals! Their downstairs bar is popular and has cheap drinks.)  

15. Enjoy the Fitzroy Gardens

Created in 1848, Fitzroy Gardens is a massive Victorian-era garden that covers over 65 acres. It’s one of Melbourne’s most historic and beautiful gardens and is meant to resemble the English gardens the early settlers left behind.

The area was originally a swamp but was painstakingly cultivated into the beautiful and sprawling garden that exists today. There are walking paths, greenhouses, cottages, and lots of flower gardens and greenspace. It definitely feels like an English garden!

Wellington Parade, +61 3-9658-9658, fitzroygardens.com. Open 24/7. Admission is free.  

16. Get Cultural at the Melbourne Museum

The Melbourne Museum showcases Australian social history, indigenous cultures, science, and the environment. The highlight of the museum, for me, was the extensive Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Center, which highlights aboriginal culture, art, and history. They also have a children’s section that’s great for anyone traveling with kids. There are also regular visiting and temporary exhibitions as well, so be sure to check their website to see what’s going on during your visit.

11 Nicholson St, +61 3-8341-7777, museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum. Open daily from 10am-5pm. Admission is 15 AUD.  

17. Go On a Wine Tour

Wine tours are super popular in this region. The Mornington Peninsula in the outer suburbs of Melbourne is a world-famous wine-producing region. Located 45 minutes from the city, it’s home to over 40 wineries. There are a lot of day trips available to the Yarra Valley too (which is where most tours take you). If you don’t have your own car or don’t feel like spending the night in the area, day trips from Melbourne cost 150-225 AUD per person for a full-day tour (8-10 hours).  

18. Take a Day Trip to Phillip Island

Full-day trips to Phillip Island start around 149 AUD and include kangaroo, koala, and penguin parades on the beach.  

19. Day Trip Along the Great Ocean Road

20. Take a Spooky Tour Through Pentridge Prison

For those that enjoy ghost stories, visit Pentridge Prison. It was home to some of Australia’s most notorious criminals, including Ronald Ryan (the last person to be legally executed in Australia), Chopper Reed (an infamous gang member), and Ned Kelly (an escaped convict famous for wearing armor in a shootout with police). Tours are super interesting, lasting 1.5 hours and costing 48 AUD.  

21. Take a Day trip to the Peninsula Hot Springs

About 1.5 hours outside of Melbourne, the famous Peninsula Hot Springs in Victoria is a great way to spend a relaxing spa day soaking in award-winning natural geothermal waters overlooking natural landscapes. There are 50 thermal pools that are said to have healing qualities. If you’re feeling brave, try their ‘fire and ice experience’ where you sauna first then go ‘chill’ out in Australia’s first ice cave. Entrance fees are 75 AUD. Robes, towels, flip-flops, etc. are extra to rent if you don’t have any.

Half-day tours from Melbourne including round-trip transportation and admission is $150 AUD.

With tons of museums, amazing parks and beaches, and lots of day trip opportunities, Melbourne is a city that just keeps on giving. You won’t be short on things to do here — just the opposite! It’s my favorite spot in Australia (and for good reason). Spend some time here and I promise you’ll fall in love with the food, cafes, beaches, and parks. It’s a city that doesn’t disappoint!

Book Your Trip to Melbourne: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

• Nomads St. Kilda
• The Nunnery

For more hostel suggestions, here’s a complete list of the best hostels in Melbourne.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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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

Melbourne   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Boy_Anupong | Getty Images

11 Best Things To Do in Melbourne

Updated Apr. 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.

Popular Tours

Great Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour from Melbourne

(4789 reviews)

from $ 103.79

Puffing Billy And Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour

(227 reviews)

from $ 131.24

Phillip Island Penguin, Brighton Beach, Moonlit Sanctuary from Melbourne

(2421 reviews)

from $ 117.18

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.

Great Ocean Road Tour Plus Koalas, Forest Walk and Morning Tea

(700 reviews)

from $ 95.08

Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise

(1228 reviews)

from $ 123.88

Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Small Group Tour

(2670 reviews)

from $ 85.94

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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10 Top Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on October 3, 2023

The city of Melbourne, is a coastal metropole with a cosmopolitan vibe. It is considered to the be the cultural capital of Australia, and it is easy to see why. Melbourne is home to galleries, gardens, museums and nature reserves. There is an abundance of interesting architecture ranging from Victorian structures to contemporary designs. With great food, nightlife, shopping and sports, Melbourne is a clear winner for an Australian getaway. An overview of the best attractions in Melbourne:

10. Royal Exhibition Building [SEE MAP]

Make your way to the district of Carlton in order to visit the magnificent Royal Exhibition Building. Constructed in 1880, the structure served as the meeting place for the very first Australian Federal Parliament. While parts of the building are gone thanks to fires, the main hall still stands, topped by an incredible domed ceiling. The Royal Exhibition Building is a common place for local events and conventions, but you can walk right in during open hours for a self-guided tour. Explore the incredible galleries, the beautiful furnishings and the impressive designs of the original architect, Joseph Reed.

9. Fitzroy Gardens [SEE MAP]

Just on the edge of the CBD, or Central Business District, is Fitzroy Gardens. The gardens date back to 1848, when they were set aside as a public space. At the time, the establishment of a beautiful public park was rare, so it is an important reminder of Melbourne’s role as the people’s city and as the garden city. Since Fitzroy Gardens is more than 160 years old, it boasts a number of older, tall trees. Blue gums, willows and elm trees were all popular during the 19th century. Today, you can tour the Victorian landscapes, but you can all see an ornamental lake and even the cottage where James Cook’s parents once lived, which was brought all the way from England to Melbourne.

8. Hosier Lane [SEE MAP]

Inject some local flavor into your trip to Melbourne by exploring Hosier Lane. Just a short walk from the banks of the Yarra River, Hosier Lane is ground zero for local street art and culture. The stone pathway is lined with walls that serve as canvases, and each is decorated with a variety of pieces. You can admire hastily drawn sketches next to murals using bold, bright colors. Grab a camera and walk up and down the lane on your own, or take part in a guided tour. Since you’re in the area, keep walking until you hit Rutledge, a less known but equally impressive gallery street in the area.

7. Melbourne Zoo [SEE MAP]

In the Parkville district of the city, you’ll find the Melbourne Zoo. This zoo is special because the animals live in natural settings, their habitats designed for animal comfort rather than visitor views. While the Melbourne Zoo boasts plenty of local animals, you’ll find some less common species as well. Don’t miss the Wild Sea Exhibit, where you can see penguins and seals up close. Also noteworthy is the baboon lookout, a spectacular spot where you can look for the members of a large baboon family. There’s also a 19th century English carousel in the zoo that kids will definitely want to ride.

6. Federation Square [SEE MAP]

If you want to get to the heart and soul of Melbourne, make your way to Federation Square. This is a central meeting place where lots of locals gather, and it is the ultimate spot for people watching. It’s also a place you’ll almost certainly pass through at some point, since it is a major transport hub and the site of the city’s Visitor Centre. Federation Square is where you’ll find the Australian section of the National Gallery of Victoria as well as the Australian Centre for the Moving Image. Come for the attractions but linger at the sidewalk cafes and bars to experience some of the local flavor.

5. National Gallery of Victoria [SEE MAP]

Australia’s biggest, oldest and most impressive art museum is located right in the city. The National Gallery of Victoria, known to locals as NGV, boasts an incredible collection of important works of art. The NGV is actually made up of two parts. The first, located in St. Kilda, is called the NGV International. This is where you’ll find art from Europe, Asia and the Americas. At The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, works come indigenous people, early colonial settlers and contemporary Australian artists. The two NGC branches are home to pieces by Rembrandt, Monet and Tom Roberts, just to name a few.

4. Melbourne Cricket Ground [SEE MAP]

The largest cricket stadium in the country, and one of the largest in the world, is the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Located in Yarra Park, the stadium is known to locals as simply The G. Built in the middle of the 19th century, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is virtually always going through some sort of renewal or remodel. Even if you’re not able to attend a cricket game while you’re visiting, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is worth a visit. You’re free to check it out while exploring the National Sports Museum, which is located on the grounds.

3. Eureka Tower [SEE MAP]

Smack dab in the city center is Eureka Tower, the tallest observation deck in all of Melbourne. If you want panoramic views over the city, this is the only spot worth visiting. When you visit, you’ll head to one of the twin elevators. In under 40 seconds, you’ll be whisked all the way from the ground level to the 88th floor. If you’re feeling bold, you can exchange the views of the Skydeck for the thrills of The Edge. The Edge is a glass square where even the floor is clear, providing unparalleled views from every single angle.

2. Queen Victoria Market [SEE MAP]

One of the must-see attractions in Melbourne is the Queen Victoria Market. It’s a huge open-air market, one of the largest in the world, and it dates back to the 19th century. Locals call is the Queen Vic or just Vic Market, and the name comes not from the Queen but from the location at the corner of Queen and Victoria Streets. The best way to experience the market is on foot, browsing the stalls and vendors selling everything from fresh farm veggies to handmade jewelry to specialty clothing items. Grab something tasty to eat, or pick up a refreshing beverage, and spend the day in this relaxed, exciting environment in the heart of the city.

1. Royal Botanic Gardens [SEE MAP]

In the high-end neighborhood of South Yarra, you’ll find the Royal Botanic Gardens. This is a lush, green oasis just steps from the heart of Melbourne, but it feels a million miles away. Within the Royal Botanic Gardens, you can stroll along the Australian Forest Walk, admiring local species and plant life along the way. Breathe in deeply while in the Rose Collection, a colorful array of blooms with a very romantic atmosphere. For a special treat, head to Ornamental Lake. On the shore, you can join a brief guided tour from a punt, a small boat that lets you see the garden from a new perspective.

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December 11, 2023 at 3:43 am

I found Melbourne very comfortable. It is a seaside metropolis with a distinct international character. It is understandable why it is regarded as Australia’s cultural capital.

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46 fun, unique, and weird things to do in Melbourne

By: Author Brittany

Posted on Last updated: February 17, 2023

Welcome to the world’s most liveable city ! If you’re looking for unique experiences, amazing food, and weird things to do in Melbourne, you’ve come to the right place. Not many cities cater to artists, foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, hipsters, sports fanatics, and culture hunters… but quirky Melbourne has it all! What follows are some of my favorite unusual things to do in Melbourne, gathered over nearly two years calling it my home.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

First things first:

Airport transfer: Book your transfer from Melbourne Airport into the city, so your arrival is stress-free and you can start your holiday on the right foot!

Insurance: Accidents happen and it’s important to have insurance that will cover you in the event of lost luggage or a medical emergency. I use Safety Wing to stay covered. Check them out to see if they’re right for you!

46 unusual and unique things to do in Melbourne

1. freakshakes.

As The Sweet Wanderlust, I’d be failing at my blog (and life) mission to bring you the world’s best desserts if I didn’t include Melbourne’s best freakshakes at the top of the list. Sure, there’s culture, music, and history that make this city amazing, and if you keep reading, you’ll learn all about it.

And Melbourne does brunch better than anywhere else in the world I’ve ever been. Fairy floss-topped pancakes, ice cream cones garnishing waffles, and if you’re into savory foods, mac ’n’ cheese croquette eggs benedict with Bloody Mary hollandaise!

Not just tasty, check out some of Melbourne’s most Instagrammable brunches  or take a bottomless brunch cruise ! 

3. Yarra Valley

Don’t drink and drive! Check into a glamping pod or belle tent for a romantic weekend (or a super fun girls’ weekend). Or hop on a tour and let someone else worry about where you’re going.

4. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens

Every day, the Botanic Gardens offers free entry from 7:30am-sunset. Explore 38 hectares of garden beds with more than 50,000 plants from around the world. Stroll past tranquil lakes and sprawling lawns in this inner-city oasis.

Take a free Garden Discovery Tour at 10:30am or 2:00pm to learn more about the gardens. If you want to go deeper into the culture, join a ticketed Aboriginal Heritage Walk to experience a traditional smoking ceremony with an Indigenous guide and learn the traditional uses of plants.

5. Get your bearings with a free tram tour

The world’s most liveable city is pretty awesome for tourists, too. Hop on one of the old-fashioned #35 trams, which runs in the free tram zone, for commentary about the city. One loop of the City Circle Free Tram lasts about 55 minutes and you can hop on and off at leisure to continue exploring on foot.

6. Pay your respects at the Shrine of Remembrance

This war memorial, dedicated in 1934, serves to honor the service and sacrifice of the ANZACs (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps). If you happen to be in Melbourne on ANZAC Day, the dawn service is a memorable and moving way to start the day.

7. China Town

Prefer savory food to sweet? Check out this Melbourne: 3-Hour Foodie Discovery Walking Tour !

If you happen to be in Melbourne over Lunar New Year, be sure to visit China Town for parades and lion dances.

8. Sip cocktails at a secret bar

9. Catch a film at an outdoor cinema

10. Get the perfect Instagram shot at the Brighton Beach Boxes

On a sunny day, you’ll see tons of Instagrammers, families, and selfie-queens doing a photoshoot in front of the boxes. It’s definitely one of the cool things to do in Melbourne! 

11. Fall in love with the little penguins of St. Kilda

12. Puffing Billy

First launched in 1900, the Puffing Billy steam train was a low-cost way to open up remote areas. When a landslide blocked part of the track in 1953, a plan was made to close the line and a farewell day was organized. When 30,000 showed up to say goodbye, a dedicated group of train enthusiasts came together to save the Puffing Billy. It’s still chugging along today through Sherbrooke Forest in the beautiful Dandenongs. 

Book this tour for a ride on the Puffing Billy, a visit to see the kangaroos at Healesville Sanctuary, and a visit to the famous Yarra Valley Chocolaterie. 

13. Explore Melbourne’s alleyways and arcades

Melbourne is known for coffee, street art, and its adorable alleyways and arcades. Join this tour , which includes lunch, or this tour , which includes a chocolate tasting and a souvenir bag for one of the most unique experiences in Melbourne– a combination of beauty, history, and shopping!

14. Go for a drive down the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most stunning trips in Victoria. Take a trip on your own, or join a tour  (with morning tea and koalas!) to make sure you get the chance to see the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge in person. 

15. Have a smashing good time

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to hit a TV with a crowbar? Stop wondering and start smashing! The Smash Room in Keilor East offers all kinds of breakables for your smashing pleasure! Add in some cheeky neon signs and 80s retro vibes, and you’ve got one of the most fun things to do in Melbourne! 

Photo courtesy of The Smash Room Melbourne Australia

Bring your friends, family, or a date to this one-of-a-kind experience! 

16. Hang out with koalas and kangaroos at Healesville Sanctuary

If you don’t get out of the city, your chances of seeing some of Australia’s famed wildlife are approximately 0%. Lucky for you, Healesville Sanctuary is just over an hour away and even reachable by public transport!

17. Go hipster spotting in Brunswick

Among Brunswick’s Victorian architecture, op shops and music venues are Melbourne’s hipsters, taking part in all the alternative things to do in Melbourne. Check them out, because whatever they’re doing now is sure to be cool in a few months!

My favorite hipster joke: Why did the hipster burn his tongue? Answer: Because he ate his food before it was cool!

18. Ghost tour

Listen to spooky stories about your favorite haunts on a ghost tour  or a haunted prison tour . Is it Melbourne’s ever-changing weather or was that a ghostly presence that just sent shivers down your spine?

19. Forget ghosts… let’s learn about true crime!

Learn all about the seedy history of Fitzroy from an author and historian who will show you former brothels, and take you through the former crime district of Melbourne on this true crime tour .  

20. South Melbourne Market

At first glance, South Melbourne Market is a foodie’s paradise with fresh produce, exotic cheese, and multiple choices of ice cream vendors! Every third Saturday of the month, the market offers a To Market To Market tour for $15 which includes tastings and a reusable market bag. Book early to ensure your opportunity to meet the vendors who make the magic happen!

Dig a little deeper, though, and you’ll find that the market isn’t just for foodies. Shop second-hand books, get your nails done, or shop the latest local fashions. This market can keep you busy for hours! This Melbourne Multicultural Markets Culinary Culture Tour will take you to some of the city’s most eclectic markets for treats you may not discover on your own.

The South Melbourne Market is open Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday 8am-4pm and Friday 8am-5pm. From January 5 to February 23, visit the night market on Thursdays from 5:30 to celebrate summer with food and music.

21. Queen Vic Market

Queen Vic Market saved my friendsgiving celebration with a turkey and a recipe, but this market is more than just food!

Check out their clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs for a great way to bring Melbourne home with you. The Queen Vic Market is open Tuesday and Thursday 6am-2pm, Friday 6am-3pm and Sunday 9am-4pm.

Join the Melbourne: Bites & Sights Tour with Eureka Skydeck for great views, epic coffee, and a hearty snack.

22. Visit the Prahran Market

Don’t forget to visit Naheda’s Choice, the Turkish delight stand, for sugary delicacies of all colors and flavors. This market is open Tuesday and Thursday-Saturday 7am-5pm and Sunday 10am-3pm.

Pro Tip: If you arrive at 2:30pm on Sunday (30 minutes before closing time), you’ll get the best deals on produce in all of Melbourne.

23. St Kilda Esplanade Market

St. Kilda is full of colorful characters and it makes sense that its market celebrates that creative spirit! Every Sunday, from 10am-4pm, discover unique, local and handmade products sold by the artisans that created them.

24. Watch an AFL game at the MCG

Many Australians love rugby, but Melbourne is a footy town! Check out a game and cheer on my favorites: the Western Bulldogs, the Cinderella story winners of the 2016 AFL Grand Final. No games playing while you’re in town? You can still get inside the MCG with a tour of the stadium . 

25. Visit Melbourne’s pink lake

26. Stay out all night for Melbourne’s White Night

Quirky Melbourne delivers weird things to do in Melbourne… you’ve just got to stay awake to experience it!

27. Shop at Chadstone

Australia’s largest shopping center has a store for every taste. If you can walk out without buying anything, you’re a better woman (or man) than me! Typically, malls aren’t known for their culinary creativity, but Chadstone isn’t like most malls.

Or try Scroll’d for some freshly made Thai ice cream, made right in front of you! I’m partial to the cookies ’n’ cream flavor.

28. Don your black and white attire for Derby Day at the Melbourne Cup

29. Luna Park

Opened in 1912, Luna Park retains the charm of yesteryear while providing modern-day thrills to adrenaline seekers. Step through Mr. Moon’s giant mouth and go for a spin on The Carousel, listed on Victorian and National Heritage Registers and built in 1913 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. Or take a ride on The Great Scenic Railway, the oldest continuously operating roller coaster in the world. It even rolled through World War I, making it one of my favorite unique things to do in Melbourne!

30. Visit the State Library

31. Throw some i-darts

If you’ve got poor aim, i-darts might be the darts game for you! The plastic darts are flung into the computerized dart board which calculates your score automatically. Note: if you accidentally completely miss your board and hit the board next to you, it does not count for your score, and your neighboring players may be upset.

The i-darts pub also has beer pong. And it’s kind of hilarious. As a sorority girl, I know a thing or two about beer pong. i-darts’ version is nothing like the games we played in frat boys’ garages, but it’s probably a whole lot safer and more sanitary. This game of beer pong is played on an automated board that lights up when a ping pong ball lands in a cup. When this happens, the beer pong attendant pours a shot of beer for the losing team.

32. Dialogue in the Dark

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be blind? Through a partnership with Guide Dogs of Australia, Dialogue in the Dark takes you on a sensory journey as you discover the challenges of navigating Melbourne in the dark, gaining a new understanding for the challenges faced by those with vision impairment.

Equipped with a white cane and a skilled blind or low-vision guide, you’ll learn to navigate the city in a simulated environment, promising one of the most unique experiences Melbourne has to offer. Expect to see nothing, but learn a lot!

33. Coffee culture

34. Picnic at Hanging Rock

It’s been years since the fictional disappearance, so I can 99.999% guarantee you’ll make it out alive if you organize a picnic at Hanging Rock today. Take a group of friends to go climb the rock formations and enjoy the view. Just in case… it’s always good to stay with a buddy. 

35. Explore Melbourne’s best street art

Local artists and worldwide legends, like Bansky, have made their mark on the streets of Melbourne. I love checking out the street art on Hosier Lane and will often detour down the street every time I’m in the CBD to check out the newest art. It’s a different experience every time you go!

Book a street art tour here . 

36. Party with the bands at Cherry Bar

ACDC Laneway, named for the Australian rock band, is among the best street art in Melbourne. It’s important for another reason, too, though. Cherry Bar, founded by former Cosmic Psychos drummer Bill Walsh, is an institution in the rock community, and it’s not uncommon for arena-headlining acts to make their way to Cherry Bar after the encore. You never know who you might find at Cherry Bar… In the past, it’s welcomed Axl Rose and The Black Keys and Jack Black is said to have danced the night away at this 200-capacity dive bar.

The bar has since moved from it’s spot on ACDC Lane to 68 Little Collins St. 

37. Laugh the night away at Crab Lab

For free comedy on Wednesday nights with $5 wine and all-you-can-eat free popcorn, you’ll be laughing at the show… and then all the way to the bank with the money you’ll save!

38. Go out on Chapel Street

39. Check out an exhibit at ACMI

40. Shop ’til you drop at DFO South Wharf

39. Go take a bike!

Melbourne’s Bike Share service provides 50 bike share racks around the city if public transportation isn’t your thing. Rent a bike for as little as $3/ day or $8/ week (which covers unlimited 30-minute trips). Be sure to wear a helmet!

40. Rub elbows with the tennis pros at the Australian Open

41. Night Noodle Market

42. Drink a cocktail on a rooftop bar

43. Visit the Melbourne International Comedy Festival

Melbournians may be known for their all-black ensembles, but they love to laugh! From the end of March to the end of April, comedians from around the world flock to Melbourne to perform. Get in early and take a chance on some lesser-known talent for more affordable tickets.

44. Check out a loo with a view

45. SEA LIFE Aquarium

46. Chill out on an ice bar tour

It’s cool to be chill, and Melbourne’s IceBar is the place to be! With more than 50 tons of ice, winter gear, and a free Arctic-themed cocktail, this tour is the coolest in town!

Unique Melbourne has so much to offer and this article truly is just the tip of the iceberg that is Australia’s most liveable city. What’s your favorite thing to do in Melbourne? Let me know in the comments!

Pin this post so you won’t forget any of these quirky things to do in Melbourne!

Sunday 4th of June 2023

Great list of fun things to do in M Town! Love Melbourne's roof top bars in summer and love the Cherry Bar. My nephew works behind the bar there. Chad from Red Hot Chili Peppers called in to The Cherry Bar and got up and played drums for a band he didn't know there earlier this year. There were about 15 people in the audience! Anyway, nice post. Cheers, Maryanne from travelswithmaryanne.com

Monday 12th of June 2023

Oh I wish I could have been in the audience for that one!!

Tammara gledhill

Friday 14th of April 2023

I really want to see more plz

Friday 16th of July 2021

What a fantastic list! I wish you'd do one for Canberra too. That's my next stop :)

Monday 19th of July 2021

Unfortunately, I never made it to Canberra! It's my biggest regret because the freakshake was invented there!! I hope you have a great trip!

Mike Vogler

Tuesday 11th of December 2018

I picked two in the middle of the pack as my first choices though they are all amazing! Driving down the coast and a meal on a tram! Have a great day, Brittany! :)

Two very good choices!! Thanks, Mike :)

23 of the best things to do in Australia

Nov 2, 2023 • 13 min read

Experience the best of Australia with this guide to the top things to do © Dallas and John Heaton / Getty Images

An ancient land of diverse ecosystems, Australia is a nature lover’s wonderland.

From emerald rainforests and fragrant, eucalyptus-covered mountains, to golden ribbons of coastline  and woodland caves with Aboriginal art, there are countless ways to experience the beauty of this vast island nation. Even in urban settings, nature is never far away. Rainbow lorikeets squeal at sunset and crashing crystal waves will beckon you outdoors, if just to sip Aussie wine and scoff prawns. Here are the best things to do in Australia.

1. Admire the Sydney Opera House from a different angle

Inspired by yacht sails and surrounded by water, the glorious Sydney Opera House is an Australian icon. The majestic curves dominate Sydney Harbour and look impressive from every angle. Stroll right around its base – something many don’t know you can do – then take a white-knuckle climb up the  Sydney Harbour Bridge with a guide to get a view of the Opera House. For a quiet perspective, kayak at dawn as the sun kisses the surrounding waters, or picnic under Moreton Bay fig trees in the crowd-free Tarpeian Lawn in the Botanic Gardens.

Local tip: Time your visit to watch  Badu Gili  – a light show of First Nations stories by Aboriginal artists – projected onto the Opera House. It has been such a hit that in recent years it has turned into a daily free event at sunset.

2. Learn about bush food under the stars in the Red Centre 

The didgeridoo plays while the sun shimmers on the horizon and the earth’s rusty red intensifies. Then the Southern Cross and stars spill across the sky. Enjoy a tasting menu of native bush ingredients in the Northern Territory 's Red Centre alongside this remarkable backdrop.

3. Be dazzled by the marine life at Ningaloo Reef

The Great Barrier Reef has a lesser-known but equally dazzling sibling in Western Australia. Ningaloo Reef is a jeweled necklace of coral reef that fringes the coast, especially near Exmouth , making it very accessible for snorkelers. Nearby, blowholes force ocean water through sea caves and up to 20m (66ft) into the air. Ningaloo Reef is a magical place for swimming alongside whale sharks (the world’s largest fish) and migrating humpback whales (be sure to always give these wild creatures a lot of space).

Planning tip:  For children and those who don't want to swim, glass-bottom boats are a comfortable option to see manta rays and turtles gliding above the coral below.

4. Eat authentic world cuisine and new Australian fusions

Nearly half of all Australians were born overseas or have at least one parent born overseas. That’s why eating at restaurants in a Little Korea, Thai Town or Greek Precinct means you get the real deal. As always, it pays to window-shop for somewhere that has mostly local diners.

Modern Australian food highlights these world flavors through European cooking techniques, and its varied climate and nutrient-rich land produces top-quality fresh ingredients. Chefs are exploring pairing indigenous flavors such as desert lime and bush banana (which resembles snow peas) with seafood, Australia’s specialty. This kind of dining is always the most exquisite with a beach, river or harbor view.

5. Walk at Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania

On first seeing Cradle Mountain , even Aussies might exclaim, “I didn’t know Australia could even look like this!” It’s true that the glacier-hewed crags and alpine heaths here have a touch of the Scandinavian. Cradle Mountain is all Australian though, with pristine ancient rainforests, mirrored lakes, and unique fauna isolated from the rest of the world.  Hiking newbies: head to Ronny Creek for a glimpse of wombats drinking from a creek in a buttongrass moorland. The terrain is flat, and most visitors head for Dove Lake, so you’ll have the marsupials (and shuttle bus stop) to yourself.

6. Watch baby penguins waddle 

The sun won't even be up yet, but it'll be worth it – and your heart might melt – when you witness little blue penguins waddling across the sand. Phillip Island is the most famous penguin site, but there are other islands and even secret spots in cities such as  Manly in Sydney and St Kilda in Melbourne. 

7. Learn to surf, or at least have a laugh trying

You might not ride a tube on your first lesson, but paddling and standing on a surfboard for one glorious moment before being dumped in a fizzle of white foam is an amazing feeling. Besides, getting water-confident will help you enjoy some of Australia’s nearly 12,000 beaches . When the water’s choppy, try sandboarding on dunes across the country, often in places with rich Aboriginal history, including Henty Dunes in Tasmania . 

Local tip: Want to learn more about the history of surf culture and the grassroots campaign by women surf pros to be recognized and celebrated in the sport? Check out the 2021 documentary  Girls Can't Surf . 

8. Join Sydney locals on the Bondi to Coogee walk

Hugging 6km (3.7 miles) of coast between two beaches, the clifftop walk from Bondi beach is saturated by blue skies and rolling ocean. No matter how many times you walk it, each turn is a delight: outdoor baths that glitter with crashing ocean waves; Gordon’s Bay, decorated with wooden boats; Waverley Cemetery with the most exclusive resting place in Australia; McIver’s Ladies Seawater Baths hewn from rock; and lounging locals at Tamarama, Clovelly, and Bronte beaches, each with their own personality . 

Local tip: Stop at the Clovelly Bowling Green for a beer and a barefoot game of lawn bowls overlooking the ocean – you just need to sign in as a guest. The walk gets steep after this, so it may be tempting to stay and linger.

9. Feel ancient Australia in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory

Kakadu is the perfect kind of middle of nowhere. It’s the wild Australia that you might have already daydreamed about. Waterfalls bloom from rock, prehistoric crocodiles thrash the wetlands, lorikeets sing, and Aboriginal guides bring ancient rock art to life. As you trek between gorges and woodlands or hike for views over endless treetops, your worries seem far away. 

Planning tip: Helicopter or fixed-wing scenic flights are a wonderful way to get a sense of the sheer scale and beauty of Kakadu. Note that flights are only available over Jim Jim Falls in the wet season (November to April). Traditional owners request that the skies are rested in the dry season (May to October).

10. Celebrate Pride at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade 

It might have started off as a protest, but today, over 40 years later, Australia’s largest LGBTIQ+ Pride parties all night. What makes the parade the highlight is the 200 flamboyant floats. The vehicles are decorated 12 months ahead, and dancers practice weekly to sashay for that one night. Grab a stool or milk crate to watch from the sidelines and prepare to shout “Happy Mardi Gras!” to strangers. But the nightlife excels  all year round in Sydney , with cozy, queer-friendly pubs including the Bearded Tit . 

11. Explore Uluru with an Aboriginal guide

Uluru has been a sacred site to the Anangu, the area’s Aboriginal people, for 10,000 years. It’s definitely worth engaging an Anangu guide for the Kuniya walk to the Mutitjulu Waterhole at the base of Uluru to hear ancient stories, decipher rock art, and appreciate the significance of Uluru’s towering slopes.

Planning tip: Go at dawn to beat the heat, then go back at night to see the desert illuminated by 50,000 lights in the Field of Light show.

12. Spot native wildlife on Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Kangaroo Island is a montage of Australian nature on show. In one day, you can glimpse koalas snoozing in eucalyptus trees, echidnas waddling, and kangaroos and wallabies sunbathing. In between, walk under the towering stone fossils of Remarkable Rocks and dip your toes in the clear blue waters of a parade of beaches you'll have all to yourself (except those guarded by sea lions).

13. Cheer on Aussie sports from the Dunny Derby to AFL

Sport is everywhere in Australia, from international matches to the local Dunny Derby (yes, it’s a toilet race). Even if you aren’t a sports nut, seeing a big match taps you into the Australian psyche at its most excitable. Women’s sport is finally getting the attention it deserves in Australia and there’s a good turnout for women’s cricket and Australian Football League (AFL) games these days. Sydney will host the 2027 Netball World Cup, and netball might make it into the Brisbane 2032 Olympics lineup.

Planning tip:  Plan ahead for tickets to see the Australian Open tennis in Melbourne or the World Surfing Championships on the Gold Coast . 

14. Get naked at a nudist beach

Aussies aren’t that fussed about nudity or what adults do in their own time. Feel the sun bathe every inch of your body at one of Australia’s community-minded nudist beaches . Don’t forget sunscreen; the rays are mighty here and burnt bits aren’t fun.

15. Spot a koala 

Who doesn’t love a cuddly koala? Just look at their high-on-eucalyptus faces! Fortunately, cuddling koalas is no longer encouraged in most states, even in controlled environments like wildlife parks. Instead, you can spot one high up in the street trees of rural towns around Australia’s southeast coast. As well as admiring the wildlife , look out for opportunities to learn about Australian bush conservation and how people can help wildlife recover after bushfires.

16. Cycle Victoria’s High Country on dedicated rail trails

Thank lockdowns for the cycling rebirth in Australia. The Victorian High Country has rewarding views at every turn. Ribbons of roads and disused railway lines (now reinvented as cycling rail trails) roll out alongside olive groves, tree ferns, and wineries between alpine valleys and lake swims. There are long stretches of flats for families and casual riders, and mountain trails right into the bush for the adrenaline-chasing cyclist.

Detour: The Victorian High Country boomed with gold in the 1850s, and there are traces of this wealth – and the Chinese miners who sought it – in the towns along the way. Eldorado has a gold museum, while Yackandandah has both quaint tinned-roofed buildings and a historic cemetery dedicated to Chinese gold miners.

17. Admire Aboriginal rock art

Art has been essential to cultural life through 65,000 years of Aboriginal Australian history. Seeing Aboriginal art is a captivating launchpad to conversations about Australia today for its First Nations people. Learn more about the significance of rock art at the Northern Territory's Arnhem Land and the Quinkan rock galleries in Queensland; the emergence of dot paintings on canvas in the 1970s in the Northern Territory; or the storytelling of contemporary works displayed at city museums, such as the Yolngu women’s bark paintings.

18. Drink in Australia's varied wine regions

Australia is blessed with clean water and rich soil to produce some top wines. Winery hopping lets you feel the sun and country air that fed the grapes while you taste test. Try old vine Shiraz in the Barossa Valley (South Australia) or a cabernet sauvignon from the Margaret River region (Western Australia), chased down with chardonnay in the Hunter Valley (New South Wales) and finishing with a pinot noir in the Yarra Valley (Victoria) or a sweet Riesling in Tasmania. You’ll need a few weeks to do it all, and every one of these wine regions is worth visiting for more than just its grapes.

Local tip: Include a gourmet farm-to-table lunch right in the vineyards, with produce freshly plucked from the garden. If you’re booze-free, try some non-alcoholic wine, which is becoming easy to find in Australia.

19. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef sustainably

The Great Barrier Reef is a masterpiece of thousands of smaller reefs, coral, and islands. It’s a world must-see, not just for Australia. There’s no way to recommend a free-for-all visit; climate change has caused mass coral bleaching, and tourism can be damaging. Yet there are still ways to visit in a sustainable way, as well to contribute to its conservation, such as by participating in a citizen science or reef restoration program facilitated by local tour operators. Don't forget to wear reef-safe sunscreen. 

There is so much to see: turquoise waters resplendent with sea turtles floating above you and a kaleidoscope of coral beneath you; manta rays, dugongs, and a treasure trove of fish so diverse that there are species yet to be discovered. It’s enough to turn you into an advocate for marine conservation.

20. Try Aussie snacks

Australian food is world food, but there are some must-try Aussie staples that locals still adore. You might wince, but at least sample some yeasty, salty Vegemite spread thinly on toast. A smoother brunch is smashed avocado toast, an Australian invention; or a Thai curry pie, a spin on a classic Australian meat pie; and a sausage sizzle, the Aussie barbecue version of a hot dog.

You’re most likely to bring home Tim Tams, the chocolate-covered biscuits that Aussies longingly sob for when overseas. Australia’s greatest export to the coffee world is the flat white, which is most famously fine-tuned in Melbourne.

21. Stay out all night in Melbourne

In central Melbourne , the street-art-decorated laneways hide a society of wonderfully grungy cocktail bars and clubs. The famously moody weather of the city makes Melbourne an excellent place to go out while being entertained indoors. For interesting drinking, live music, historic theatres, and the Melbourne International Comedy and Film Festivals, the city dominates the country’s nightlife calendar.

Planning tip: If you're traveling with children and want a night out with the kids, check out the Victoria Market Night Market . There's one in summer and one in winter with street food stalls, buskers, live music, and local maker markets. Alternatively, many summer sporting events that run into the dark hours, like Friday night football, are also pretty child friendly.

22. Learn about Australia’s migration story

Australia is a vibrant nation of migrants. The Immigration Museum in Melbourne and the Migration Museum in Adelaide bring out the colorful threads of this timeline through memorabilia, voices, artifacts, and photos. They celebrate the positive elements in this story and are worth a visit for a deeper understanding of multicultural Australia.

23. Get used to sharing Australia with crocs, spiders and sharks

It’s true, Australia has some top-of-the-food-chain creatures. You have to go out of your way to bump into them, though. Wildlife parks are a (safe) way for kids – and adults – to get their thrills being splashed by a jumping crocodile, wincing at a funnel-web spider or black snake being milked of venom, and spotting the deadly spurs on a platypus. An even mightier heart thumper is cage diving at eye and teeth level with a great white shark.

Local tip: Obviously, you don't want to get cozy with deadly Australian animals. Always ask locals for advice on where it is safe to swim or walk, and heed warning signs before heading out. 

This article was first published Aug 20, 2021 and updated Nov 2, 2023.

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10 Charming Towns Two Hours Or Less From Melbourne

These picturesque towns come with excellent markets, scenic lookouts , old-school architecture and more.

Victoria is in no short supply of charming country towns and picture-perfect villages . From those with 19 th Century enchantment and golden beginnings to seaside towns and mountain escapes, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy. If you’re looking to get out of the city, add these towns near Melbourne to your list of must-visit places. All of these towns are just under a two-hour drive from Melbourne , making them perfect for day trip adventures.

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Notable mentions

Maldon, located 145kms northwest of Melbourne or just 40kms south of Bendigo, remains largely unchanged since its golden beginnings. Retaining much of its 19 th Century aesthetic , you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a set from another time.

Visitors keen on a blast from the past can take a ride in the steam train that departs Maldon Railway Station, explore the Maldon Vintage Machinery and Museum and dive into Maldon’s many gold-mining relics, ruins and artefacts like Union Hill Gold Mine or the Porcupine Flat Gold Dredge .

Declared Australia’s first notable town, Maldon has also got plenty of local gourmet food and wine to savour as well as a heap of boutique and antique shopping to keep daytrippers entertained. And once you’ve walked all over town, make your way up to Mount Tarrengower for a view. Or, step into the 150-year-old Kangaroo Hotel for a bite and a drink.

2. Trentham

Just north of the Wombat State Forest (got to love the name), Trentham offers city-slickers a quick country escape that’s bursting with nature, wildlife and a smattering of foodie options including wineries and orchards. It styles itself as “Cool Country” and just one day out in Trentham will show you just how cool it can be.

Victoria’s highest single-drop waterfall (32m) can be found just a few minutes from the centre of the historic town so if you’re big fans of chasing waterfalls , then Trentham Falls has to be on your to-do list. You’re sure to find a great spot for a picnic stop nearby.

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Trek up to McLaughlins Lookout in Wombat State Forest for uninterrupted scenic views. Up top, you’ll find yourself gazing out across Mount Macedon, the You Yangs and the Dandenong Ranges while those keen on a jaunt through the forest can tackle the Domino Trail — an easy walk that will take you all the way to Lyonville along the railway line.

But, what about in town? Visit du Fermier for seasonal French farmhouse dishes from renowned chef Annie Smithers. Enjoy fresh vegetables picked from the garden alongside meat from the surrounding area. Head to RedBeard Bakery and feast on sourdough from their 140-year-old scotch oven. For classic pub fare, you can’t go wrong with The Cosmopolitan Hotel , which was built in 1866.

Gold had a huge part to play in Bendigo’s beginnings, and like Trentham, Victoria’s golden era has left a lasting impression on the state’s fourth most populous city , from authentic heritage attractions to cultural discovery and gastronomic offerings that make mouths water.

Since 2019, Bendigo has been a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy . For good reason, too. Bendigo’s only dedicated steakhouse, The Woodhouse , cooks their locally sourced produce with applewood in the charcoal-fired oven. Meanwhile, Alium Dining uses local and seasonal ingredients to push the boundaries. For sophisticated Asian fusion, you can’t miss Malayan Orchid, which serves up a tasty mix of Chinese and Malaysian cuisine. You can explore the area’s food and drink culture here .

For many, the Central Deborah Gold Mine is on the top of many to-do lists when visiting Bendigo. Descend 61 metres underground and discover a labyrinth of underground tunnels. Then, explore the surface of the mine with a gold panning experience, authentic mining buildings and more.

Other popular hotspots in Bendigo include the Bendigo Art Gallery and the Golden Dragon Museum . Bendigo’s Sacred Heart Cathedral the second-tallest church in Australia and the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion happens to be the largest Buddhist stupa in the western world.

If you feel like a gentle stroll, be sure to pop by Lake Weerona, the Bendigo Botanic Gardens and Rosalind Park. Visit Bendigo for their annual tulip display in spring for an extra dose of nature.

4. Daylesford

The beauty of Daylesford is no mystery to most Victorians. From the lavender farms to the day spas, the scenic walks to the uncovering of hundreds of vintage and antique goods , and boutique gallery visits followed by coffee at boutique cafes, there’s plenty to do in Daylesford.

So, where to start? If you’re after coffee (and by coffee we also mean breakfast), then Pancho Café on Vincent Street is a hot pick while Cliffy’s Emporium is also a solid choice. Once you’re all fuelled up, it’s time to hit the down and check out The Amazing Mill Markets for all the vintage finds under one massive roof.

Wander up to Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens , which is on top of an extinct volcano, and have a picnic with the help of Wombat Hill House . Then, climb up Pioneers Lookout Tower for splendid views of Daylesford and the surrounding areas. If you like walks, then you simply must stroll around the tranquil Lake Daylesford .

For your dose of art and culture, visit the beautiful Convent Gallery , which as you might guess from the name, is set in a former convent.

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And, if you know anything about Daylesford, you’re probably aware that the surrounding area is graced with magical mineral waters. Hit up Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa where you’ll find not only mineral baths but also other spa facilities and therapies so that your mind, body and soul can relax and rejuvenate.

5. Healesville

East of Melbourne also boasts beautiful and charming country towns, and Healesville has got to be right up there as one of our favourite regional destinations. Located up in the Yarra Ranges, it’s not only home to the famous Healesville Sanctuary but it’s also got a plethora of wineries — Innocent Bystander, Boat O’Craigo and TarraWarra Estate to name just a few — as well as a great selection of brewers and distillers making a name for themselves.

When it comes to food, feast on a shared-style menu paired with organic wines at No. 7 Healesville . If you want to take something home, pick up some cheese, meat and hampers from Kitchen & Butcher .

Art aficionados can mosey on over to YAVA Gallery and Arts Hub, Hearth Galleries or head a little out of town to visit TarraWarra Museum of Art , a cultural icon in the region featuring the best of modern and contemporary art.

Since you’re in the area, you can find one of Australia’s most beautiful, scenic drives — Black Spur . It’s an hour-long, 36-kilometre drive linking Healesville with Marysville lined on either side with towering mountain ash trees and ferns. Also, a visit to Maroondah Reservoir Park is well worth a visit for some downtime.

6. Sassafras/Olinda

Sassafras or Olinda? Why not both? The two towns in the Dandenong Ranges are more than worth your time and, if you like, you can walk between the two in less than an hour — Olinda to Sassafras if you want to go more downhill than up.

Sassafras is all 19 th Century charm complete with the Alfred Nicholas Gardens (famous for its autumn colours and that iconic boatshed) and Miss Marple’s Tearoom , a traditional English tearoom inspired by none other than Agatha Christie.

Meanwhile, Olinda has the serene Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, complete with the newly opened Chelsea Australian Garden , which feature thousands of native plants, a waterfall and a billabong.

When in Olinda, make sure to the local art galleries and studios, handcrafted jewellery and fashion at local boutiques , as well as, sweet shops and antique stores , which you’ll also be able to find in Sassafras. However, what Sassafras does have that Olinda doesn’t is Geppetto’s Workshop — a paradise of wooden toys and puppets.

7. Jindivick

Way out east on your way to Warragul, you’ll come across a tiny yet delightful town called Jindivick. Take in majestic views of rolling hills, explore the beautiful Garden at Broughton Hall and wander through the Sculpture Garden by artist Laurie Collins.

When it comes to food, you can’t go past The Caf’, Gypsy Creek Winery , or Brandy Creek Estate .

All of that’s on offer in this tiny charming town but you’ve still got plenty of walks you can go on including the famous Jacksons Track (it’s also the title of Daryl Tonkin’s memoir), several in Nangara Reserve and around Glen Cromie by the Tarago River , which is replete with facilities for a fantastic day out.

Loch it in even if you’ve never been to this swell South Gippsland town. Once you go, you’ll know exactly why it’s on this list. But if you need some convincing, the local council website describes it as a picture-perfect town “almost like something out of a fairy tale” .

With the stunning Strzelecki Ranges in the background , the alluring town is all 20th-century buildings housing boutique stores and quaint cafés . From Yakkity Yak, which sources its wares from Nepal and beyond, to all the antiques you didn’t know you want from Carringtons, you’ll be enamoured — but, they are by no means the only shops you’ll find. Explore the main street and surrounds and you won’t be disappointed.

With all the fabulous local produce around town, you can bet on finding some great foodie places for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. From Olive at Loch for all kinds of baked goods to Loch Village Foodstore & Café and The Loch Grocer , you’re well covered. When it’s time for drinks, hit up Loch Brewery & Distillery, Loch Wine Bar and the Gippsland Wine Company .

The Loch Suspension Bridge is a must for all tourists to the area.

9. Red Hill

Melburnians need no introduction to the Mornington Peninsula. And those who’ve done their research know all about Red Hill — the hidden hinterland town between Dromana and Shoreham. It might not have beaches, but they’re not at all far away and who cares when this place is peppered with wineries, farms, restaurants and cafes .

When it comes to meats, Red Gum BBQ makes America proud while modern Australian cuisine is well represented with the likes of Montalto, Max’s at Red Hill Estate and Port Phillip Estate (both its dining room and cellar door).

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Red Hill is also home to the Ripe n Ready Cherry Farm which are favourites in summer while the Red Hill Lavender Farm & Distillery is a more-than popular choice when the flowers are blooming . Combine with a wine tasting — say from Mount Rouge Estate or Polperro Winery — and you’ve got a spectacular day planned.

10. Queenscliff

Not to be outdone, the Bellarine Peninsula has its own charming town. Known as the “grand dame” by some, they say that Queenscliff is reminiscent of an English seaside resort , oozing elegance and overflowing with history.

The town, which was renamed in 1854 to honour Queen Victoria, features Victorian-era hotels, wide boulevards peppered with antique stores, and some pretty dignified-looking churches . A walk through town, especially down Hesse Street, will showcase some of the best sights, from lookouts to landmarks. Make sure you walk along the foreshore and stroll down the century-old Queenscliff Pier.

Step into the maritime and historical museums for a blast from the past or join a guided tour of Fort Queenscliff , which was built in 1860 and served to protect the entrance of Port Phillip Bay.

But if history doesn’t float your boat, visitors to Queenscliff can do a spot of snorkelling and immerse themselves in the colourful world of the sea at Pope’s Eye, part of the Port Phillip Heads Marine Park , or get tickets to the Queenscliff Music Festival . It takes place on the last weekend in November and is actually so popular that tickets sell out well in advance.

If you’d like to explore the Bellarine even further, hop on The Q Train . Journey along a heritage rail line between Drysdale and Queenscliff, and enjoy a degustation that showcases the best seasonal produce that the Bellarine Peninsula has to offer. If you don’t feel like travelling, don’t worry. Queenscliff is packed with options when it comes to food so you won’t be disappointed.

The ten charming Victorian towns near Melbourne that we’ve mentioned are by no means an exhaustive list. There are plenty more beautiful, scenic and memorable towns you can visit in a two-hour drive (or less) from Melbourne. Notable mentions of other lovely towns near Melbourne we haven’t been able to include in this list (next time) include Castlemaine, Kyneton, Macedon, Ballarat, Clunes and Maryborough.

And, there are plenty more if you’re willing to drive a little longer and a little farther away.

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