top places to visit in melbourne australia

The 14 best experiences in Melbourne

Oct 26, 2023 • 8 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Photograph Melbourne's murals and street art

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Relax for an afternoon at Abbotsford Convent and Gardens

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

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

6. Promenade St Kilda’s vibrant foreshore

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

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

7. Go green at CERES Community Environment Park

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

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

8. Book in for Melbourne’s best dining experiences

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

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

9. Go explore Melbourne’s western regions

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

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

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

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

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

11. Discover Melbourne’s history at the Melbourne Museum

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

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

12. Learn about the Anzacs at the Shrine of Remembrance 

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

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

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

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

14. Sample gourmet treats at Queen Victoria Market 

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

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

This article was first published Jun 28, 2021 and updated Oct 26, 2023.

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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

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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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.

Abbotsford Convent Arrow

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

Rooftop at QT Arrow

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

Melbourne Cricket Ground Arrow

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

Attica Arrow

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

Preston Market Arrow

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

The Rose St. Artists' Market Arrow

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

ST ALi Arrow

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

Federation Square Arrow

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

St. Kilda Beach Arrow

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

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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.

With a Melbourne City Pass , you can experience the best of Melbourne at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#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.

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#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!

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#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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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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• A Day at the Melbourne Zoo
• Best Yarra Valley Wineries
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• Melbourne's Top Attractions
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• Garden Trails of the Yarra Ranges; An Escape Through Natural Beauty
• Discovering Dandenong Ranges and the Village Life
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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.

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Yarra Valley Yarra Valley free

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

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

State Library Victoria State Library Victoria free

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

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

National Gallery of Victoria National Gallery of Victoria free

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

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

The Block Arcade The Block Arcade free

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

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

City Circle Tram City Circle Tram free

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

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

Small-Group Phillip Island Afternoon Day Trip from Melbourne

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Melbourne Cricket Ground Melbourne Cricket Ground

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

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

Melbourne Museum Melbourne Museum

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

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

Melbourne Zoo Melbourne Zoo

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

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

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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.

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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Melbourne, Victoria

Guide to Melbourne

Aboriginal name:  Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)

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• Getting to Melbourne
• When to visit
• Accessibility

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Trip essentials.

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Getting Around

Destinations near Melbourne

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The Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

Daylesford & the Macedon Ranges

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25 Things to Do in Melbourne Australia for First Timers

• Australia / In the City

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

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

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

Last Updated: May 29, 2020

• 25 Best Things to Do in Melbourne Australia

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

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

• Map of Best Melbourne Attractions

More Things to Do in Melbourne

Seasonal things to do in melbourne.

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

1. Street Art + Laneways

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Queen Victoria Market

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

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

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

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

4. Federation Square

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

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

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

5. Flinders Street Railway Station

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

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

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

6. Yarra River

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

7. Fitzroy Gardens

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

8. Royal Botanic Gardens

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

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

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

9. Eureka Skydeck

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

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

10. National Gallery of Victoria

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

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

11. Art Galleries

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

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

12. Penguins at St Kilda

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

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

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

13. Luna Park Melbourne

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

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

14. State Library Victoria

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

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

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

15. Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI)

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

16. St Paul's Cathedral

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

17. Old Melbourne Gaol

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

18. Parliament House

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

19. Brighton Beach

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

20. Melbourne Cricket Ground

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

21. Dandenong Ranges National Park

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

22. Shrine of Remembrance

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

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

23. Star Observation Wheel

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

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

24. Rooftop Bars

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

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

25. Docklands

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

Map of Best Things to Do in Melbourne

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

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

Essential Tips for First Time Visitors

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

Best Places to Stay

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

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

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

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

What's Nearby

These are some great day trips from Melbourne:

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

More Resources

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

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

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

Esther + Jacob

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

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30 Incredible Things to Do in Melbourne, Australia (By a Local!)

Melbourne is one of the greatest cities in the world.

I should know; I call this wonderful place home.

How did I end up here?

Well, after over a decade of continuous travel, during which I visited 100-odd countries and many more cities, I found myself faced with the difficult prospect of choosing just one place to settle.

So the fact that I had the entire world to choose from and decided that Melbourne was the best place in which to live? That should tell you all you need to know about how incredible this city is.

But don’t just take it from me: Melbourne has been ranking as one of world’s most liveable cities for well over a decade — even snapping up the top spot every now and then. There’s no doubt about it: this is a city that has tons to offer residents and visitors alike.

Many tourists in Australia tend to overlook Melbourne when it comes to planning their itineraries, opting instead to spend their time snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef or admiring the iconic landmarks of Sydney.

I view that as a huge mistake.

Melbourne has tons to offer its visitors. You’ve got beautiful beaches, expansive parks, glistening skyscrapers, bustling markets, hipster bars, excellent coffee, world-class street art, and the best brunches in the world .

But the best thing about it all? You’ll never feel as though you’re sharing the attractions with 362,403 tourists at the same time. You’ll feel like you’re living here, too. And there’s no greater feeling than that.

Being a travel writer, I hit the tourist ground running as soon as I moved to Melbourne. I’d taken a dozen-odd trips to the city before deciding to live here, but there were still so many attractions I’d yet to explore. And now that I’ve been here for many, many years? I feel confident in declaring that I know allll the the best things to do in Melbourne.

As always, I’ve personally tried and experienced every single item on this list myself and update the article whenever I discover something new. You can expect plenty of updates throughout 2024, too, as I’ve set myself the ambitious goal to try something new in this city every single week!

So grab yourself an oat flat white and get ready to start planning your trip. Here are the best things to do in Melbourne:

Buy Far Too Much Food at the Queen Vic Market

Now, if there’s one place in Melbourne that I always take visiting friends and family, it’s the Queen Victoria Market. This is one of my favourite markets in the world and it’s enormous .

If you’re staying in accommodation that has access to a kitchen, you’ll want to make this your first port of call when you arrive in the city. The food section of the market is jam-packed with seasonal produce; most of it with an Australian focus. After all, why go to a supermarket when you can pick up better quality food from the Queen Vic Market?

But even if you don’t plan on cooking while you’re in town, this is still a worthy place to explore. (I recommend going on a weekday before lunchtime to avoid the crowds).

I love the fruit and vegetable section, where you can find all sorts of weird and wonderful varieties of produce. I always pick up something unusual to try out whenever I’m here, whether it’s hot-pink kiwifruit or bright-white strawberries. Everything here is fresh, locally-sourced, and higher quality than the supermarkets.

The meat and fish sections are a delight to walk around. In particular, I recommend heading to Thompson Meat and picking up a bunch of different sausages to try at home. The kangaroo sausages are always a crowd-pleaser, but there’s dozens of other flavours to choose from, from English mustard to Thai basil chilli; beef burgundy to honey soy.

Away from the fresh produce, there’s a huge deli section plus a busy food court. The American Doughnut Kitchen is the most popular spot in the market, but my personal favourite is the Bratwurst Shop & Co. Their bratwursts are phenomenal so it’s rare for me to ever pay a trip to the market and not pick one up.

The Queen Vic Market hosts a number of events throughout the year, with none bigger than its popular night market. It runs year-round on Wednesday nights and is so much fun — definitely a good option if you don’t have access to a kitchen while you’re in town. It will, however, be extremely crowded, so go early for less stressful experience.

Sample a Flat White While You’re in the Best City for Coffee

Ask any coffee snob which city is home to best coffee in the world and if they’ve been to Melbourne, they’ll most likely confess it ranks top.

There’s a famous story in Melbourne. Way back in 2000, Starbucks expanded its operations into Australia but within less than a decade, had accumulated over $100 million in losses. Most of its stores sat empty. The company closed down a whopping 70% of its Australian cafes in response and has never really been able to gain a stronghold; this is one of the few countries in the world that is simply uninterested in what it has to offer.

Why go to Starbucks when you’ve got thousands of independent cafes offering far superior options?

I used to hate coffee. I was a committed tea-drinker for 30 years of my life, shuddering whenever I tasted the (to me) bitter, rough notes of a flat white.

Well, I eventually forced myself to try a Melburnian version — seeing as everybody couldn’t stop talking about them — and it was love at first sip. I love coffee now and drink it on a daily basis. (Well, I love the coffee in Melbourne, at least. I recently took a three-month trip and disliked every coffee I tried while I was away!)

So yes, if you’re a coffee fanatic, there’s no greater city in the world for getting caffeinated. Drinking lattes here has landed me with ridiculously high standards for this beverage, so drink with caution: you may find the coffees you drink back home will no longer do it for you.

No matter which neighbourhood you choose to base yourself in while you’re in Melbourne, there’ll be no end of excellent coffee shops to visit. After all, if you’re serving bad coffee, the locals won’t visit, and you won’t stick around for long.

Two of my favourite suburbs for coffee-drinking include Collingwood and Brunswick; be sure to head to either area if you want to try some of the best options in the city. I also have a whole range of coffee shop round-ups over on Everything Victoria (my Victoria travel site), so if you love your caffeine, go grab some recommendations for your time in town. Some of my favourites include:

• Woodside Green , Carlton
• Code Black , Brunswick
• Calere Coffee , Fitzroy
• Proud Mary , Collingwood
• Patricia Coffee Brewers , the CBD

Check Out Flinders Street Station and Federation Square

Meet me under the clocks.

Meet me on the steps.

Utter either of these two phrases to a Melburnian and they won’t have any confusion over where you’re talking about. Flinders Street Station is where locals gather; a popular meeting place for friends, it’s not only the busiest train station in the southern hemisphere, but also Australia’s oldest train station.

Most likely, it’s the most photographed building in the city.

There’s no question, then, that any trip to Melbourne couldn’t be complete without you taking your own shot of the city’s most iconic landmark. Take the time to admire its facade: the turquoise copper dome, the yellow brick walls, and the original clocks from 1854.

When the clocks were first installed, in fact, in the early 1900s, they had to be manually altered by somebody holding a very long pole. Every 30 seconds, the worker would change the time, meaning they were having to alter the clocks almost 3000 times in a 24 hour period!

Pair your visit to Flinders Street Station with a stroll around Federation Square. You can think of this spot as the main public square of Melbourne. Set on the banks of the Yarra River, this lively area is perfect for people-watching and taking a break from sightseeing.

There’s always something happening here on the weekends, whether it’s a sports game up on the big screen, a performance on the stage, an art installation to admire, or even a festival! With plenty of bars, cafes, restaurants, museums, and galleries, there’s enough going on for you to spend a full day exploring Fed Square’s delights. (But only on the weekends! It’s kind of a ghost town on weekdays.)

Catch a Game at (or Take a Tour of) the ‘G

Whether you’re a fan of Aussie Rules Football or once heard someone refer to it as “a blend of rugby and mugging somebody”, you can’t understand Melbourne without heading to the MCG and catching a game. Melburnians, in particular, are sports mad and that passion starts with their favourite footy team. 

A whopping 10 of the top 18 AFL teams are from Victoria, which might give you some indication of just how popular the sport is over here.

If you’re planning a trip to Melbourne between March and September, look to buy a ticket for an AFL game at the city’s most hallowed stadium — you can view the events calendar on the MCG website . I’m personally not a fan of AFL, but even I consider this one of the most fun things you can do in the city. Because the MCG is enormous . The stadium can hold up to 100,000 people, making the ‘G the 11th biggest stadium in the world. If you manage to grab a ticket for a popular game, the atmosphere is out of this world.

But it’s not just AFL that calls the MCG its home. During the summer months, it’s all about the cricket — the Boxing Day Test is a huge event! — and occasionally, even concerts are held here. (Yes, Taylor Swift performed at the MCG earlier this year).

If you happen to time your visit during an unusually quiet period, I highly recommend signing up for the guided tour of the stadium, which is run by the MCG. It costs A$35 per person and you can book through Viator .

When my cricket-obsessed dad came out to visit me in November last year, when the AFL season was over but the cricket hadn’t yet begun, my whole family jumped on one of these tours instead and came away so impressed by the experience! My mum even names it the highlight from her time in Melbourne, despite not being a sports fan.

Our tour guide was absolutely fantastic, sharing insider secrets about the stadium, showing us all around the grounds, and revealing little-known facts about the matches that have taken place here. Our guide attended his first game at the ‘G in 1957[!] so he had personally experienced so much of the stadium’s history.

All that to say, even if you’re not a sports fan, this is absolutely something you should look to experience while you’re in Melbourne.

Learn About the City’s Past at the Old Melbourne Gaol

For a young city, Melbourne is home to a surprisingly interesting past. And it’s at the Old Melbourne Gaol where you’ll get to learn all about the region’s very own Wild West.

Because while America had its pioneers and gunslingers, Australia was home to bushrangers ; none of whom were more famous than Ned Kelly.

In Australia, Ned Kelly and his gang are often praised as a symbol of resistance against social inequality and police corruption. Across the state of Victoria, they took part in bank robberies and shootouts, and their legacy today is subsequently rather complex. Some view Ned as a criminal and murderer while others celebrate him as a folk hero who was fighting against a biased establishment. Regardless, it’s impossible to travel around Melbourne and not encounter mentions of him on your journey.

The best place to learn more about his impact and life is at the Melbourne Gaol . The building opened back in 1842 and operated for over 80 years; during this time, 133 of the country’s most infamous outlaws were executed on its grounds — including Ned Kelly himself.

While this is a fairly pricey activity at A$35, I personally thought it was worth the entrance fee. The vast majority of the jail cells had information boards inside detailing the people who were imprisoned here, their crimes, and their experiences within their tiny cells. We spent two hours reading all the information on offer; there was much to learn!

Most unsettling for me was seeing the death masks of the prisoners. Back then, before photography, it was common to make a plaster mould of the prisoners’ faces after their execution, and several of these are on display in the gaol.

If you’re into getting spooked on your travels, check if there’s any availability for the candlelit night tours and ghost tours that the gaol runs on select days (usually Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays). You’ll hear about all the spooky happenings that have been uncovered over the years while getting a real sense for how poor the conditions must have been for prisoners.

Take Photos Inside the State Library of Victoria

The State Library is located just across the road from the Melbourne Gaol, so I recommend visiting both of them on the same outing.

This is one of my favourite buildings in the city, and I love taking visitors here to snap photos of the pleasing symmetry from the Dome’s viewing platform. Imagine being a student in Melbourne and getting to work in a library that looks like this .

One of the biggest mistakes that visitors make, however, is to head up to the viewing platform, take their photo, and leave. This enormous building is so much more than a library! On some visits, I’ve managed to spend as many as three hours roaming around all that it has to offer.

The best way to explore the space is to head to the top, then work your way down. When you enter the library, look for signs for the Dome Galleries and keep following them. Once you reach the reading room, jump in one of the lifts and take them to the top floor. That’s where you’ll find the famous viewpoint you can see in my photo above.

Just a word of warning: avoid visiting the State Library at lunchtime on the weekends. Protests are held outside the building every Saturday and Sunday with hundreds — sometimes thousands — of people turning up for each one. It’s loud, crowded, and tough to navigate past.

Roam Around the Royal Botanic Gardens

I chose to celebrate my 10 year anniversary with Dave at the Royal Botanic Gardens; that’s how much I love it here!

Located across the river from the MCG, and within walking distance of the CBD, this urban oasis is a surprisingly peaceful part of the city. Here, you can have a picnic on the grass, go punting on the lake, or wander through a forest full of towering ferns.

I tend to follow the same walking route through the gardens: entering from Gate A and walking around the perimeter of the Ornamental Lake in a counter-clockwise direction. Once I’m back at the start, I then follow the signs to Guilfoyle’s Volcano to the right.

This part of the garden is my favourite. The “volcano” is actually a reservoir; its water is pumped in by the Ornamental Lake and then gravity helps distribute it through the earth to the rest of the plants in the park! The viewpoint from the top is particularly impressive, looking out at the Melbourne skyline in the distance while the Arid Garden stretches out in front of you below.

After you’ve got your fill of cacti and succulents, move onward to the sizeable Australian Forest and New Zealand collection of plants. The beautiful palms collection always has me feeling like I’m hanging out on the equator, while nearby Fern Gully is one of the most atmospheric parts of the garden. If you happen to be in Melbourne when the Rose Garden is in full bloom (November or March), it makes for some excellent photos.

Plan to spend at least an hour at the Botanic Gardens, or better yet, buy some picnic foods from the Queen Vic market and spend an afternoon relaxing under the shade of a gum tree or two.

Pay Your Respects at the Shrine of Remembrance

The first time I stumbled upon the Shrine of Remembrance, I was taken aback. It felt like such a European example of architecture, rather than something you typically find in Australian cities.

This is Melbourne’s major war memorial, and the first to be built in Australia. It’s dedicated to all Australian soldiers — no matter which war they took part in — and is most well-known for the sizeable crowds that gather here for Dawn Service on ANZAC Day.

You could easily spend a full hour exploring this Melbourne landmark. Most visitors wander around the grounds of the Shrine before moving on, but the interior of the building is actually rather impressive. The shrine may look small, but it holds quite a few exhibitions and displays.

Start off in the beautiful gardens, taking a few moments at the Eternal Flame to pay your respects. Antipodean readers won’t want to miss the Lone Pine; grown from one of the pinecone seeds that a soldier brought back from Gallipoli.

Inside, you’ll find the Gallery of Remembrance; the walls of which are lined with thousands of war medals, plus artefacts and stories from Australia’s experiences at war. There’s even one of the lifeboats that was used during the landing at Anzac Cove on display.

Even if war history isn’t your kind of thing, and even if you’ve never even heard of Gallipoli, it’s worth entering the shrine to catch a glimpse of the views from the outdoor balcony. From up there, you can look down the length of Swanston Street all the way into the city.

You’ll Find the Best Views of the City at the Melbourne Skydeck

The Melbourne Skydeck is the perfect way to round off a trip to Melbourne. Once you get up to the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower, you’ll be able to spot all of the tourist attractions you’ve spent the past few days checking out.

I often bring friends here when they come to visit, but even as a local, I always enjoy the experience of towering over the city. This is the highest observation deck in the entire southern hemisphere — standing at 285 metres above the ground — and once you’re up there, it really does feel like it.

Unsurprisingly, you’re going to be blown away by the incredible 360° views you’ll have from the top. You’ll be able to look out towards the beachy suburbs in the south, the hipster neighbourhoods of the north, the rolling green hills of the east, and the mouth of the Yarra in west.

One of my favourite parts of the observation deck are all the free viewfinders that are scattered around its circumference. They’re fixed in place and pointing towards all of the city’s major landmarks, like the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Flinders Street Station, and the Shrine of Remembrance — making it so easy to spot the city’s highlights from above.

One of my least favourite aspects of every observation deck I’ve ever been to is the difficulty in taking a photo without reflections from the glass walls. At the Skydeck, they actually have an outdoor terrace, where you can take photos through the gaps in the metal fencing without obstruction. While you’re on the terrace, make sure you stick around for a few minutes to watch the Edge , as it happens right beside you.

This is one of the main attractions of the Skydeck. Basically, you stand in a small glass cube and try very hard to remain calm as it slowly travels horizontally outside of the skyscraper and into the air, until you’re fully outside, looking straight down at the ground below you. You can see what I mean in my photo below. And yes, it’s a long way down.

Should you sign up to experience the Edge for yourself? I’ll be honest: it’s a little pricey (an additional $18 for five minutes in the box) and you can’t bring a phone in to take your own photos either. You do get a free digital photo included but, well, it’s not the best quality. The Edge experience itself was pretty cool, in that it’s not something that you can do in many places in the world, and it was a bit spooky to be able to look straight down to the ground below. At the same time, the views weren’t any different to what you can see elsewhere in the Skydeck.

It’s a bit of a gimmick.

Below, I’ve shared the photo that Dave and I got from our Edge experience. I mean, you can sort of see that we’re in a glass box, but it’s at a weird angle, doesn’t show much of the surrounding city, and is also tinted green.

Lots of people recommend visiting the Skydeck at sunset, but I’m not a huge fan of doing so. I find the glare of the sun makes it tough to make out some of the city viewpoints, and then I end up hanging around for an hour or two, just waiting for the city lights to turn on.

Instead, I recommend visiting in the middle of the afternoon, on a blue-sky day on a weekday. There’ll be hardly anybody there at that time of day (there was about 10 people total at 2 p.m. on a Tuesday) so you should have it all to yourself.

Aim to book the experience a couple of days before you plan to go, so you know when the weather will be at its best, as tickets are cheaper if you book online in advance (A$34 if you just turn up, or A$30 if you buy ahead of time).

Go Shopping in the Historic Arcades

Melbourne has several famed laneways, which we elaborate on below, but an extension of this is the city’s arcades. Allowing you to cut through buildings, the arcade lanes are shopping havens themselves and none are as prominent as the Block Arcade.

Like a scene from Harry Potter or Olde England, the Block Arcade features 19 th century-style architecture and beautiful post beams. The grandeur is immediately obvious as you wander in. A simple stroll through will be enough for some, but there are many high-end stores in the arcade. Be sure to stop by Haigh’s for some fancy chocolate!

The Melbourne Museum

A great way to learn about Melbourne’s long history and the surrounding nature is to visit the Melbourne Museum. Here you can explore, in depth, the Aboriginal communities that lived along the Yarra River for thousands of years. The Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Center elaborates on their heritage, customs and art. Sit in the Deep Listening space to hear stories from the time of Creation to today.

The Melbourne Museum also has permanent and rotating exhibitions that show life in the city, from the Gold Rush Era through the 20 th century, while the kids will be entertained in the children’s section.

Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

The oldest art museum in Australia, the NGV, is the highlight of Melbourne’s diverse arts scene. On the Yarra River’s Southbank, the National Gallery of Victoria houses over 70,000 works and is high on the list of best things to do in Melbourne.

Since opening in 1861, the gallery has presented several world-class exhibitions from touring artists. From Ai Wei Wei to a partnership with New York’s MoMA. Permanent exhibits focus on local Australian art from the colonial and convict eras to Aboriginal art from around the country. 

Visitors will also have the chance to take part in classes and lectures or attend concerts and independent films.

Stroll Through the Laneways

Melbourne embracing street art and pop-up graffiti helped channel the city’s bursting creativity in a positive way. Over the years, the city’s iconic laneways have been filled with art. Much of which continually changes, seemingly covering the news and events better than the presenters themselves.

You can access many of the best graffiti alleys on foot from Flinders Street Station. These include Hosier Lane, Duckboard Place and AC/DC Lane. Although you can wander down these streets and take all the selfies you can, why not enjoy an artist’s perspective? Take a tour through the Melbourne’s street art scene before ending at an artist studio for a drink or two.

BYOB and Dumplings in Chinatown

Eating out in Melbourne is always a fun adventure. International cuisine is well covered, whether it be Thai, Ethiopian, Italian or a fusion of everything. Many restaurants allow guests to bring their own booze, which not only adds to the fun but cuts down on the bill. But what if I told you that you can drink and eat on the cheap without sacrificing flavor?

Melbourne’s bustling Chinatown is a maze of activity on any night of the week. Dumpling houses pack with residents, with chefs slinging dirt cheap but delicious dumplings in insane numbers. Wine is inexpensive here, so grab a bottle and take your pick of the dozens of restaurants. Our choice? Shanghai Village. The double-story restaurant is essentially a mess hall. With service so quick, don’t worry about the line out the door.

Ride Puffing Billy

Melbourne’s much-loved Puffing Billy is an old time steam train from the year 1900. The steam train roams through the beautiful Dandenong Ranges just out of the city center. The train’s early years were spent serving the local community, delivering anything from livestock to timber. 

Thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteers, you can step back in time and experience a ride on a classic train while admiring the stunning scenery. The open carriages allow you the feel the wind pass by while you stick your head out the side. Enjoy food on board or grab a picnic and sit under the trees. Later, explore the museum to learn more about the famous Puffing Billy. 

Dine on Lygon

Melbourne’s version of Little Italy is a gorgeous, shady street full of cafes and restaurants. The original buildings came to be in the late 19 th century, but the influx of Italian migrants transformed the suburb of Carlton and Lygon Street into what we see today. Not only introducing locals to delicious eats, they played a huge role in Melbourne’s love of espresso coffee.

Today you can walk down the street in the afternoon and enjoy the community atmosphere, just a brief trip from downtown. In the evening, take your pick of world class restaurants, although the best ones will require a reservation. 

Drive the Great Ocean Road

As one of the top tourist destinations, not just for Melbournians, but for all of Australia, the Great Ocean Road is an epic experience. You could consider the road a tourist trap, but the good thing about road trips is that it’s easy to avoid the crowds. Beginning at the coastal town of Torquay , grab yourself a fantastic brunch then start to drive.

The amazing coastline is as beautiful as it is rugged, having caused the demise of several ships throughout history. The roaring ocean continues to erode the coastline, creating dramatic cliffs and winding turns. Feel the ocean breeze, stop for a surf or continue on until you reach the 12 Apostles .

See the Penguins on Phillip Island

Only a straightforward two hour drive exists between Melbourne and one of Victoria’s best attractions. At the end of Phillip Island, is a penguin parade which occurs nightly. This natural phenomena see sometimes thousands of penguins return home to their shelters on the shoreline.

You can enjoy the spectacular sight from the comfort of the seats built above the sand. From there, an expert narrator will guide you through the experience. The first penguin bobbing up from the ocean will give you chills as the adorable creature waddles home.

In addition to this site, I also run a Victoria travel site , where I share insider tips for all of the most popular attractions across the state. I’m particularly proud of my enormous guide on the Phillip Island Penguin Parade — if you’re heading that way, be sure to have a read before you get there.

Have fun at Luna Park

Melbourne’s classic theme park, which opened in 1912, is home to a variety of fun activities for young and old. If you’re wondering what to do in Melbourne with kids, then here’s your answer. 

Through the iconic entrance, you’ll find the pirate ship, giant drop, arcade and carnival games along with bumper cars and kids’ rides. The all-you-can-ride pass is inexpensive and provides great bang-for-buck.

Luna Park is home to the world’s oldest continuously operating rollercoaster. The ride may not reach the exploits of modern coasters seen at Disney World, yet the classic wooden ride has some butterfly-inducing drops and brilliant views of the city.

Grab a drink on the Yarra

Melbourne’s Yarra River may be murky and very much not for swimming, but the dining on the Yarra is one of the best things to do in Melbourne. The city has a famed hospitality scene which has taken over this part of town, an area that was once rundown.

When dining out or enjoying a drink on the Yarra, you have two choices, the north or south side. Southbank is home to some of the best restaurants in the city. With spectacular views at night when the skyscrapers are lit up, this is the perfect spot for date night. Every hour on the hour, mini-towers along the bank spurt fire towards the heavens. The simple yet spectacular sight is the perfect way to end your evening.

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a pint during the day, then head to the other side. Right next to Flinders Street is the renowned Arbory. Set right on the river, the bar and eatery is always happening. 

Ride the City Circle Tram

There are many exceptional free things to do in Melbourne, but perhaps the best of them is the City Circle Tram. Also known as the W-class Tram, this free form of public transport travels in a square shape around the city. Hop on and off as many times as you like until you complete the full route.

The City Circle Tram hits up many attractions on this list, including Federation Square and the Melbourne Gaol. But the ride itself is an experience. Sit back in an old Melbourne tram and listen to the commentary that elaborates on the sites you pass, offering a fascinating insight into local history.

See the Beach Boxes at Brighton Beach

The popular Brighton Beach is one of the most exclusive suburbs in Melbourne. Beyond the beachfront mansions are another sort-after piece of real estate: beach boxes. You may be confused at this point, but the famous boxes (essentially tiny garages) line this beach and others.

What began as changing rooms for ladies over 100 years ago has grown into a must-have. Today they store beach gear, shade and BBQs, perfect for a day at the beach. Those that own one have made sure to break out the paint and be creative. The colorful beach boxes are one of the most Insta-worthy spots in the city.

Once you’ve snapped your photos, stroll along the Brighton Coastal Walk for more views or jump into Port Phillip Bay for a refreshing swim.

Visit the Immigration Museum

One of the top museums in Melbourne is the Immigration Museum. Modern day Australia is a diverse community, with people hailing from all around the world. Found within the historic Old Customs House, this museum tells the tales of many generations of immigrants who left behind their lives to begin anew Down Under. 

The many fascinating stories of newcomers make for interesting reading. While the many displays will help visitors understand both the journey to Australia and the difficulties faced once they arrived, from the Gold Rush era into the 20 th century.

A top exhibit within the Immigration Museum is the Customs Gallery. The gallery explores Old Customs House, which was both a focus point for immigration along with trade in the 1800s. 

Explore the Yarra Valley

Barossa Valley may be Australia’s premium wine-making region, but less than an hour out of Melbourne is one that’s just as picturesque. The mesmerizing rolling green hills alit with vineyards and farmsteads is the perfect escape from the bustle of downtown.

But far from just being easy on the eyes, Yarra Valley produces some amazing wines and ciders. The many estates open their door on a daily basis, welcoming guests and allowing them to try new and vintage creations.

Many of the top estates in the region have an expansive menu, allowing you to indulge not just a perfect pinot noir but to eat among the amazing scenery. 

See the best of the Yarra Valley all the while sampling delicious wines and tasty treats on this 8-hour guided tour .

Take a Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Ride

Speaking of amazing scenery, why not enjoy a memorable sunrise from above ? Anyone who has driven through Melbourne on a beautiful cloudless morning would have spotted the many hot-air balloons floating among the heavens. A lot of us have become so accustomed to it that we forget to try it, don’t make the same mistake.

As the sun comes up from the east, see the city light up against the early rays with the river and harbor sparkling. Away from the noise of traffic, have the best seat in the house. Better yet, enjoy a champagne breakfast when it’s all said and done.

Rather float above the Yarra Valley? Trade the city for wineries on this hot-air balloon experience.

Enjoy a Festival

As Sydney was developing tourist hot spots and showing off their amazing beaches, Melbourne was hard at work, becoming Australia’s cultural capital. The city is home to world class festivals and events that cover each month of the calendar. Whether or not you arrive in the summer or winter, there’s bound to be something on.

From the International Comedy Festival, to the Festival of Live Art and the Fringe Festival, we are just scratching the surface. Beyond major events, many local neighborhoods will have smaller festivals that help celebrate community heritage, arts and cuisine, not to mention many delicious food truck festivals.

For an extensive list of what’s on in Melbourne, take a look at What’s On in Melbourne .

Take in the Action at the Australian Open

Australian football isn’t the only sport that takes Melbourne by storm. The annual Australian Open is one of the biggest events on the city’s calendar, with almost a million fans flocking to the two-week event.

In the second half of January, the Australian Open comes with sunshine and hot weather. May opt for the shade in the major stadiums, with the center court matches also providing the best international players. 

However, many would argue the best way to experience the Open, especially in the first week, is the purchase a Ground Pass. Although you’ll miss out on the big arenas, you can see many top-line tennis players on the open courts. Pick and choose your matches or kick back on the spacious lawns and enjoy a match on the big screen.

The Melbourne Zoo

Just out of downtown Melbourne, in the city’s beautiful northern neighborhoods, is the Melbourne Zoo. One of the best family activities in Melbourne is to explore the zoo, home to over 300 different species.

The Melbourne Zoo is modeled after London’s equivalent and has been a major attraction since opening in 1862. The many species here can be found in a variety of habitats that represent different parts of the world. Popular exhibits include the Aussie Outback, where you’ll find native kangaroos, emus and koalas.

Far from just a place to see elephants and giraffes, the Melbourne Zoo is focused on education. There are several programs for young and old that aim to cultivate an appreciation for conservation.

GoBoat down the Yarra River

All aboard! Take the helm of your very own boat and enjoy a day on the Yarra River. You can hire your own GoBoat, with no boat license. All you need to bring are your friends and family, some booze and treats.

The 16ft (5m) boat comes with a built-in picnic table and is easy to handle. After a quick tutorial, you’ll be off and racing, venturing through downtown Melbourne without a care in the world. 

The Yarra River is a calm stretch of water, allowing for a relaxing experience. Just be sure not to fall into the murky waters. Yarra River is often called the upside-down river .

Hike the Dandenong Ranges

After a few too many slices of brie, venture off into the mountains for a day of hiking. Although out of the city, the Dandenong Ranges are still a part of the greater Melbourne area. Within the ranges, you’ll find a number of hiking trails to suit all abilities and motivation.

The beautiful scenery shows off the Australian bush just a short drive from the city center. Popular trails include the Living Bush Nature Walk (2 miles) and the short Burkes Lookout (0.3 miles) which sits at the peak of Mount Kyeema. 

For a thigh-burning challenge, then test yourself on the famous 1000 steps. The aptly named trek should give you an idea of what’s to come. Often taking an hour to complete, your stamina and mental strength will be put to the test as you enjoy nothing but ascent. On the way down, take your time as your legs will be jelly and also to appreciate the lyrebird’s singing.

Other fun attractions in the Dandenong Ranges include the Puffing Billy and the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens. 

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Wealth of Geeks

The 24 Best Things To Do in Melbourne as a Family

Posted: March 16, 2024 | Last updated: March 16, 2024

Australia is one of the most diverse countries in the world, with incredible nature and countless things to try out. In today’s article, we’ll be taking you on a tour around Melbourne, one of Australia’s most iconic cities. It’s especially family-friendly, with numerous activities that all family members can enjoy. Without further ado, here are 24 things you can do in Melbourne if you’re going on a family vacation.

1. Explore the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Welcoming guests of all ages, SEA Life Melbourne Aquarium hosts 550 animal species. Take your boys through the Rainforest adventure while your daughters explore the Mermaid Garden at this multi-level attraction or vice versa. We recommend spending at least two hours here to fully experience the Aquarium’s charms.

2. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

This site holds the most significant art collection in the region, with more than 76,000 artworks. The most popular paintings are Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and van Eyck’s Arnolfini Portrait .

3. Drive Along the Great Ocean Road

Along the coast of the southwest Victoria region, you’ll be able to drive down one of the most scenic roads in the world. The natural beauty here is unlike anywhere else — you can stop by the Loch Ard Gorge beach or find your ideal place to surf, as Australia has the perfect climate to try your hand with a board on the water.

4. Watch the Magic Happen at the Australian Open

As one of the most prestigious tournaments in tennis, this Grand Slam attracts thousands of sports enthusiasts and tourists every year. The Australian Open is one of the biggest tennis tournaments in the world, along with Wimbledon, Roland Garros and the US Open. You can get ground passes for your family and enjoy a day full of long matches on the hard courts are pure entertainment.

5. Treat Yourself at the Block Arcade

This historic shopping arcade is located in the central business district of Melbourne. It’s most famous for its boutique hotels and the many restaurants and vintage stores where everyone can find something they’re interested in.

6. Relax at the Royal Botanic Gardens

They were founded in 1846 when land on the left bank of the Yarra River was reserved for a Botanic Garden area. Their importance lies in the fact that they play a key part in the preservation of plants through biodiversity programs and research. Royal Botanic Gardens are the place to be if you’re looking for an exercise in nature, a picnic spot, or some time away from city life.

7. Educate Yourself at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre

This center was designed with the help of Australia’s Aboriginal people in order to present their history and traditions in the most accurate manner. Bunjil is the ancestral symbol of the creator. It’s important for us to understand the history of the country we’re visiting so that we can appreciate their mark on the world.

8. Visit the Shrine of Remembrance

The Shrine was originally built to serve as a memorial to the fallen soldiers who served in World War I, but today, it celebrates the bravery of Australians who sacrificed themselves in any war. It’s designed in the neoclassical style, and the Ray of Light shines on the commemorative stone every half hour.

9. Walk Around Federation Square

A big venue for events related to art, culture, and other gatherings is exactly what Melbourne needed to establish itself as a true creative hub. You can catch a screening of a relevant movie, attend a carnival, or enjoy an exhibition.

10. Explore the Melbourne Zoo

The Melbourne Zoo is within the grounds of the Royal Park in Parkville, about 2.5 miles away from the city center. Some of the popular exhibits include “Treetop Apes and Monkeys,” “Lion Gorge,” and “Butterfly House.” Save an afternoon for this Zoo. Don’t miss your chance to see all the beautiful animals. Your kids will be thankful.

11. Stroll Through St Kilda Beach

Our Melbourne visit is incomplete without some people-watching at St Kilda! It’s home to a colony of Little Penguins, and the sandy beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy a variety of water sports here or walk to the St Kilda Pier. 

12. Buy Something at the Queen Victoria Market

Covering over 17 acres of land, this is the largest open-air market below the Equator. It attracts ten million tourists annually as you can get some fresh produce and other locally sourced goods. It’s open every day except for Mondays and Wednesdays.

13. Explore the Melbourne Cricket Ground

Known by locals as simply the “G,” the Melbourne Cricket Ground is the biggest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere. It hosted the Cricket World Cup in 2015, a sport Aussies are very passionate about. It’s also home to Australia’s Sports Museum.

14. Have Fun at Luna Park

Amusement Parks are a great way to bond with your children, as well as to have relaxing family time together. Overflowing with different activities, we single out the Supernova and the Pharaoh’s Curse as the most exciting rides at this landmark. On the foreshore of Port Phillip Bay, you can enjoy amazing views.

15. Camp in the Dandenong Ranges

If you find yourself in Melbourne, it would be a shame to miss out on the Dandenong Ranges and the beauty that the Yarra Valley offers. Take a day trip to one of the smaller towns such as Belgrave or Cockatoo and embark on an adventure in nature! For fans of camping or wildlife, this is a perfect weekend getaway.

16. Cruise Through the Yarra River

By far the most iconic waterway in Melbourne, the Yarra has spiritual and cultural significance to the Aboriginal community. While it’s not safe to swim in, it is a great river to cruise through or try your hand at Moomba water skiing.

17. Take a City Circle Tram

It’s one of the most famous tours you can take through Melbourne, and it includes Flinders Street, Harbor Esplanade, and Docklands Drive. It’s the perfect way to explore the city, as it takes you to the most important sites in just under an hour.

18. Marvel at the Carlton Gardens

This World Heritage Site contains the Melbourne Museum, Royal Exhibition Building, and the Imax Cinema. The Carlton Gardens are famous for their beautiful fountains, and they’re a popular spot for the locals to organize barbecues.

19. Enter the Old Melbourne Gaol

Old Melbourne Gaol, the former jail turned museum, is now a popular spot for tourists with unusual travel appetites. It displays information about former prisoners, such as memorabilia and death masks. The museum contains the pen of Colin Campbell Ross, which he used to protest his innocence before his execution.

20. Discover the Twelve Apostles

This collection of limestone stacks is included in every list containing Victoria’s most beautiful sights. They’re located by Ocean Road, and this natural wonder is something you must include on your Melbourne itinerary.

21. Climb up Eureka Skydeck 88

As one of the tallest observation decks in the world, this skyscraper provides you with a beautiful view of Melbourne’s skyline. We think it’s the perfect place to take memorable photos.

22. Visit the Albert Park and Lake

Only two miles from the city center, Albert Park and its artificial lake are some of the locals’ top choices for recreational activities. It’s also home to the Australian Grand Prix, a Formula 1 spectacle which usually takes place in March.

23. Admire the Street Art

Melbourne is truly a city of artists, meaning it was simply made to be walked through leisurely with your loved ones. You can find street art on almost every corner, but the places that stand out are Hosier Lane, Keith Haring Mural, and AC/DC Lane.

24. Explore the Arts Centre Melbourne

Also known as the Victorian Arts Centre, this cultural hub is a popular place for opera and ballet performances to take place, as it promotes performing arts. It was designed by Sir Roy Grounds as a part of the project, which also included the National Gallery.

We hope we ignited a flame of curiosity and love for the curious island of Australia. Melbourne is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the Victoria region, and we’re certain you’ll have an amazing time Down Under.

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Brisbane has been named as Australia’s happiest city, but here’s what the locals think

Queensland’s capital was one of five Australian cities to make the Happy City Index in 2024

Want to start your week with a smile? A fresh ranking of the happiest cities on the planet has been released, and five Australian capital cities made the cut. We were pretty stoked to see our friends in Brisbane having their time in the spotlight, ranking as the happiest city in Australia and the 21st most cheerful in the entire world – but it seems like the locals aren’t fully on board with the hype.

Curious about how Brisbane snagged such a high spot? Every year, the Happy City Index reviews 250 locations worldwide, assessing them on thousands of quality of life factors across five categories: citizens, governance, environment, economy and mobility. Cities are then ranked by their total score and awarded gold, silver or bronze status. 

This year, 37 cities earned the prestigious title of 'Golden Happiness Cities', with Europe claiming the entire top 15. The happiest of them all was Aarhus in Denmark, followed by Zurich in Switzerland and Berlin in Germany. Minneapolis in the US was the only non-European city to crack the top 20, with Brisbane landing just outside in 21st place. 

The future Olympic host city is loved for its laid-back charm, year-round sunshine and lively music scene. However, some locals were surprised at the high ranking, with users quick to share their thoughts on a post made by the Brisbane Facebook page . One user commented, “The weather is great in Brisbane, but the city is boring, so much more to do in Melbourne or Sydney.”

Another added, “What a joke, how can someone be happy after spending 80 per cent of their wages [on] housing.”

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @BRISBANE (@brisbane)

Facebook users also called out Brisbane’s high rates of youth crime and the homelessness crisis. However, these issues aren’t exclusive to the Sunshine State, with one person defending the study, stating, “All [these] nonsense comments about housing, crime, price of living is everywhere in the world!”

So sure, Australia has a rep for being expensive , but there is still plenty to be happy about if you live here. Speaking of which, here are the best free things to do in Brisbane right now .

Want to see how Australia’s other capital cities ranked? 

Here are the happiest cities in Australia in 2024, according to the Happy City Index:

21. Brisbane

41. Melbourne

116. Sydney

Stay in the loop: sign up for our free   Time Out Australia newsletter   for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. 

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🧉  no booze, no worries: australia is one of the world’s best countries for sober travellers, 💰   travelling on a budget hobart has been named the world’s 5th best destination for free fun, 🏖️   the gold coast overtakes sydney and melbourne as the top winter holiday spot for families  .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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The first Biden vs Trump presidential debate of 2024: Where to watch and what to expect

US President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump will meet on a debate stage for the first of two televised face-offs as they embark on a tight rematch race to win the White House in November.

It is the first-ever debate between a sitting president and a former one.

Here's what you need to know ahead of the debate taking place on Friday morning in Australia.

When and where is the debate?

The first debate will air in the US at 9pm Eastern Time on Thursday, which is 11am AEST on Friday .

It will be broadcast live on CNN, from a studio in Atlanta, Georgia , but there will be no audience present.

More than four months ahead of the November 5 vote, the CNN debate will be the earliest presidential debate in modern US history.

How can I watch it in Australia?

CNN's debate will be broadcast live on the ABC News Channel from 11am AEST .

Jeremy Fernandez will be joined by US and political experts for special analysis after the debate.

NewsRadio will be streaming the debate live from 11am AEST. Listen via the ABC Listen app .

Why are only Trump and Biden debating?

CNN said only Biden and Trump met its conditions for participating in the debate.

The candidates had to appear on enough state ballots to potentially win the presidency , and receive at least 15 per cent in four separate national polls of registered or likely voters.

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr did not make the cut.

What are the rules?

CNN has shared some rules that the 90-minute debate, moderated by veteran CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, is set to follow.

The moderators "will use all tools at their disposal to enforce timing and ensure a civilised discussion", CNN said. The first debate between Trump and Biden in 2020 was rife with interruptions and attacks.

• Candidates will be given a pen, paper and bottle of water.
• They cannot use props or bring in notes.
• Microphones will be muted except for the candidate whose turn it is to speak.
• Biden will be on the podium on the right side of viewers' screens and Trump on the left, decided with a coin toss.
• The coin toss also decided that Trump will get the last word.
• Campaign staff may not interact with candidates during the two ad breaks.

What is expected to come up?

Strategists say there are risks for both candidates, who are locked in a tight race and share low enthusiasm from voters.

Biden, 81, and Trump, 78, are the oldest candidates ever to seek the presidency and viewers will likely question their cognitive abilities and emotional steadiness.

Trump aides see Biden as prone to verbal slip-ups that could amplify voter concerns about the president's age .

Biden aides think debates could hurt Trump by exposing his volatility and sometimes changing positions on issues , such as abortion.

Biden's campaign is hoping to talk about abortion and Trump's about immigration , but CNN's moderators will decide the questions.

Some topics that are likely to feature in questions include:

• How the candidates would handle challenges posed by persistently high grocery prices
• Migrants on the US-Mexico border
• The ongoing Israel-Gaza and Russia-Ukraine wars

Both candidates have had their share of unfavourable news coverage that could come up during the debate.

For Trump, that includes his role in the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol , efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his conviction on 34 felony counts for involvement in a hush money scheme .

The same goes for the legal woes facing Biden's son, Hunter, who was convicted of lying about his drug use to illegally buy a gun .

What happened last time?

Then-president Trump and Biden debated twice during the 2020 race.

More than 73 million people tuned in for the first exchange, which devolved into a chaotic shouting match.

For the second debate, moderators said they would mute each candidate's microphone to allow the other to speak without interruption for the first two minutes of each debate segment. The candidates behaved more civilly and the mute button was not a major factor.

A third debate was cancelled after Trump tested positive for COVID-19 and spent three days in a hospital. He declined to participate in a virtual event.

Ahead of the upcoming CNN debate, Trump asked the crowd at an election rally in Philadelphia if he should be "tough and nasty" or "nice and calm" — so what the tone of conversation will be this time around remains to be seen.

"How should I handle him? Should I be tough and nasty and just say, 'You're the worst president in history?' Or should I be nice and calm and let him speak?"

He has thrown some early blows at Biden and CNN, and accused the moderators of being biased against him.

What's next?

The US broadcaster ABC will host a second debate on September 10 , but the network has not yet shared details on where the event will be held.

Traditionally, there are three presidential debates, however no third Trump-Biden match-up has been announced yet.

Vice-President Kamala Harris accepted a CBS News invitation for a vice-presidential debate on either July 23 or August 13, according to a campaign spokesperson.

Trump hasn't named his running mate yet.

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Melbourne Remains Australia's Best Student City

Melbourne has cemented its position as Australia’s best student city after the release of global rankings today highlighted the state’s unparalleled education opportunities, affordability, and cultural diversity.

The results, released today by global higher education specialist Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) ranks Melbourne as the world’s fifth-best student city and solidifies the city as Australia’s top destination for international students.

QS’s Best Student Cities index is based on affordability, quality of life, standard of universities and diversity. The index saw Victoria’s capital rise from third to first in the Student Mix indicator which assesses on-campus diversity, reflected in the state’s 287,000 international enrolments coming from around 175 countries to study in Victoria.

Melbourne also ranks second for Student View , an indicator based on student experience across eight categories: tolerance and inclusion, diversity, friendliness, transport, affordability, nightlife, employment opportunities, arts and culture, and sustainability.

Melbourne leads the nation in QS’ measure of employment and work experience opportunities, highlighting the city as a hub for jobs and industry, as well as the importance of international students to meet the state’s workforce demands.

The Allan Labor Government is supporting Victorian universities to be the best in the world by providing $350 million to support universities with capital works, applied research and research infrastructure through the Vic-torian Higher Education State Investment Fund.

Victoria’s outstanding education sector is home to two of Australia’s universities ranked in the top 50 of the QS Universities Rankings, with the University of Melbourne this year climbing higher to place 13th overall and reinforcing its position as Australia’s top ranked university, while Monash University rose to 37th from 42nd place globally.

Last year, Melbourne also retained the title of Australia’s most liveable city in the Economist Intelligence Unit Global Liveability Index and moved up to third in the world rankings, thanks to our world-class education, healthcare and infrastructure.

International education is Victoria’s biggest services export, generating $14.8 billion in revenue in 2023 and supporting 63,000 jobs across the state.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Economic Growth Tim Pallas

“It’s no surprise Melbourne has once again proven to be Australia’s top destination for international students. With unmatched education opportunities, a world-class cultural scene, and an inclusive community, we’ve cemented our position on the global stage.”

“We will continue to invest in the international education sector, recognising its pivotal role in fostering economic growth through the diverse perspectives and innovative ideas brought by international students.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney

"Melbourne's recognition as Australia's best student city underscores our priority of providing world-class education, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, and creating unparalleled opportunities for our students to thrive."

Quote attributable to QS Chief Executive Officer Jessica Turner

“We are delighted to celebrate Melbourne as one of the world's top five best student cities—an achievement that underscores the strength of Australia’s international education and the importance of maintaining and advancing this success.

Reviewed 18 June 2024

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