tour in melbourne city

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Melbourne City Discovery Tour

A captivating city exploration, brimming with culture, history & famous landmarks

Explore the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Melbourne with its iconic landmarks, colourful street art, quirky laneways, and stunning waterfront. Immerse yourself in its thriving arts scene, world-class cuisine, and dynamic nightlife while enjoying panoramic views of this culturally rich destination.

Explore Melbourne’s sporting precinct, Royal Botanic Gardens & much more!

Pick up 9am-10am (seasonal)

• Learn about Melbourne’s founding fathers and what led to the city being established at this location.
• Melbourne’s Sporting Precinct – a collection of world-class stadiums on the doorstep of the city

Albert Park – expansive parklands & sporting fields as well as the location of Melbourne’s Formula One Grand Prix circuit.

• The Royal Botanical Gardens –  home of rare and beautiful plants, breathtaking landscapes and iconic buildings. Visit the Ornamental Lake during a stop here.

The Shrine of Remembrance – Victoria’s spectacular national war memorial. Built to honour the men and women of Victoria who served in World War I, it now serves as a memorial to Australians who served in global conflicts throughout our nation’s history. Walk to the top to see stunning views of Melbourne.

• St Patrick’s Cathedral – Built from bluestone and sandstone, St Patrick’s Cathedral is a leading example of Gothic-revival architecture.

Planning a late night out or a lazy morning in Melbourne, but still want to fit in a trip to Phillip Island to see the penguins? Well, we have the perfect tour for you.

We’ll pick you up at a respectable hour and travel straight down to Phillip Island.

Arriving on the island we’ll visit Seal Rocks and the Nobbies Centre to take a walk along the boardwalk and soak in the stunning views back towards the Mornington Peninsula from Phillip Island’s most westerly point. From here you can also get a sneak peek of the main event, the Little Penguins, while they hide under the boardwalks and poke their heads out of the burrows waiting for dusk when their mates return from the ocean.

Just before sunset we head over to the Penguin Parade to take our spots at the beach, ready to see the hundreds of Little Penguins as they make their way across the sand and return to their burrows in the sand dunes. See them reunited with their partners, where they give each other a little kiss, do a dance, then waddle up and into their burrows.

With your group size guaranteed to be no larger than 24 guests, we ensure there is plenty of opportunity to get out and explore nature at its very best. Our friendly & engaging guides will help you create some travel memories to last a lifetime.

FAQs for the Melbourne City Discovery Tour

What level of fitness is required for this tour, do i need to bring food along on tour, or are stops made for meals, what time does the tour return to the starting point, have more questions.

Check Out Our FAQ Page!

Come with us to see why Melbourne was named “The World’s Most Liveable City” by The Economist Magazine for seven consecutive years.

With a population of over 4 million people, Melbourne has grown from its gold rush heritage of the 1850’s to be one of the most admired cities in the world and will soon become Australia’s most populated city.

There is so much to see in this diverse city with historical buildings, world-renowned gardens and markets, Australia’s best art museums, multiculturalism, exciting food scene, sporting stadiums, lively downtown café scene and the best shopping arcades in the land.

We make sure you get a feel for why Melbourne is regarded so highly and will show you all of the following locations.

Parliament Hill – Treasury Building, House of Parliament, Windsor Hotel

The ‘Paris End’ of Collins St – travel along the Golden Mile and see how the city was laid out during the ‘boom’ period of the 1850’s Gold Rush.

Queen Victoria Market – Australia’s largest ‘open air’ market. Home to the city’s freshest fruit and vegetables, the amazing delicatessen and the famous Melbourne ‘fish market’.

Lygon Street –  Melbourne’s Little Italy and the home of the city’s famed coffee culture.

Royal Exhibition Building –  UNESCO protected and surrounded by the Carlton Gardens.

Sports Precinct –  See Australia’s biggest stadiums and learn all about our original game of Australian Rules Football.

St Patrick’s Cathedral – Built from bluestone and sandstone, St Patrick’s Cathedral is a leading example of Gothic-revival architecture.

Royal Botanical Gardens –   home of rare and beautiful plants, breathtaking landscapes and iconic buildings. Visit the Ornamental Lake during a stop here.

Federation Square – Melbourne’s central square with its modern Architecture, surrounding  Flinders St Station & St Paul’s Cathedral.

St Kilda – Melbourne’s most popular beach-side suburb including Luna Park, the St Kilda Pier, Catani Gardens & the famous Esplanade Hotel. Travel along Port Phillip Bay to view mansions, historic sea baths and Luna Park’s eye-catching rides in this beautiful seaside suburb.

Melbourne’s Arts Precinct – one of the great creative and cultural destinations in the world including the National Gallery of Victoria, Victorian College of the Arts & Hamer Hall.

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Melbourne Office

208 Little Collins St, Melbourne, Vic 3000

10/167 Beavers Road, Northcote VIC 3070

Email: [email protected] Phone: +61 39485 5290

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2. Phillip Island Penguin, Brighton Beach, Moonlit Sanctuary from Melbourne

3. Small-Group Yarra Valley Wine Tour: Wine, Gin and Cider

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

5. Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Small Group Tour

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12. Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wines, Beer/Gin & Choc Tour with Lunch

13. Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour

14. Grampians National Park Small-Group Eco Tour from Melbourne

15. Small-Group Phillip Island Afternoon Day Trip from Melbourne

16. Yarra Valley Wine and Winery Tour from Melbourne

17. Phillip Island Penguins, Wine Tasting and Dinner from Melbourne

18. Phillip Island Penguin Parade Day Trip with Koala Conservation Reserve Visit

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What travellers are saying.

Melbourne City Sightseeing Tour $85

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Melbourne City Sightseeing Tour Itinerary

Melbourne is packed with attractions, from laid back laneways and plush parks to grand libraries and museums, all wrapped up in a vibrant atmosphere. It is one of the most liveable cities in the world. People from all cultures and backgrounds come to Melbourne to experience all this modern city has to offer.

This Melbourne City Tour departs Melbourne every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Enjoy the day as your local giude takes you through the history, architecture and beautiful tree-lined streets to visit the following sites:

• Parliament Hill – House of Parliament, Windsor Hotel, Treasury Building
• Royal Exhibition Building  – centre of Carlton Gardens
• Lygon Street  – cafe central and ‘Little Italy’
• Collins Street – the ‘Paris End’
• St Patrick’s Cathedral – Gothic-revival architecture
• Sports Precinct – including the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
• Visit Queen Victoria Market – look for a bargain, wander around the fresh produce and take in the vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere
• Royal Botanic Gardens – find lots of beautiful plants and Ornamental Lake
• Flinders Street Station
• Albert Park – home to Melbourne’s Formula One Grand Prix circuit
• St. Kilda – seaside suburb with an esplanae, boardwalk, and Luna Park
• Cross over the Yarra River
• The Shrine of Rememberance
• Victorian Arts Precinct – including National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
• Federation Square

This Melbourne Day Tour allows you to experience everything that Melbourne has to offer. Book your Melbourne City Tour today!

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Personialised Melbourne

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Join Culture Quest Tours on private group tours as we adventure into Australia’s cultural capital. Experience Melbourne’s historic sites, creative hubs, and natural wonders while listening to colorful stories of the city’s past and present. Dive into the bustling backstreets of the urban center. Refresh in the captivating wilderness on the outskirts of the city. Journey with us into the heart and soul of Melbourne. Come and join our Melbourne City Tour for an unforgettable experience!

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One Day in Melbourne: Things to Do, Itinerary & Map

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: November 10, 2023

Planning a one day trip to Melbourne and looking for tips on how to see the best of Melbourne in one day? Wondering what are the best things to do in Melbourne or how to best plan your time? This article with insider tips and recommendations should help you make the most of your short time in the city. Read on!

Melbourne is one of Australia’s most lively and vibrant cities and there is plenty to see and do! Known as a foodie destination, but also for its colorful street art and stunning architecture, Melbourne also has some excellent museums, as well as sporting and cultural events…

With so many awesome things to do in Melbourne for the whole family , you could easily spend a week or more in the city and doing day trips nearby . However, if you’re just passing through and want to see the best of Melbourne in a day, then this guide should help you do just that.

In this article, we cover the best things to do on your first trip to Melbourne , focusing on the main highlights. In addition, you can find a map, tips for getting around the city, and recommendations for the best places to stay . We also included a suggested one day Melbourne itinerary. Find out!

The author of this guide is Melissa who is the writer behind Thrifty Family Travels and Queensland Camping She lives in Queensland, Australia, and has visited Melbourne many, many times. So this one day Melbourne itinerary is filled with insider tips that should help you make the most of your short trip to this bustling city.

Getting Around Melbourne

First things first. The easiest way to get around the Melbourne city center (aka Melbourne CBD) is on foot and by tram. The next thing you need to know is that Melbourne has an awesome City Circle Tram system that is FREE of charge.

This free tram route operates in a circle and you can travel in both directions. With trams running every 12 minutes, this is a very convenient way to get around the city center.

If you happen to stray a little bit too far from the City Circle Tram route, you can use rideshares like Uber or DiDi. That way you don’t waste too much time.

Hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus is also a good option for those who want to see as much as possible in a day. The bus is not really necessary if you are only planning to stay in the city center. But if you want to see more of Melbourne and visit places that are a bit further away, then it can be a good way to do it in just a day.

The actual CBD of Melbourne is not overly big, so you can see quite a lot in a day. To help you work out where everything is, I’ve put together this map so you can easily make your way around the city.

You can easily walk between many of the attractions and take a tram for the places that are somewhat further away.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Now that you know how best to get around the city and where everything is, let’s take a look in detail at what you can see and do in Melbourne in a day.

Things to Do in Melbourne in 1 Day

Flinders street railway station.

Flinders Street Train Station is one of the main train stations in Melbourne. The building that houses the station is over 100 years old and pretty impressive. It’s an iconic landmark and one of the places to see in Melbourne.

The art-nouveau style building backs onto the Yarra River and has a prominent dome, arched entrance, tower, and numerous clocks. If locals tell you “let’s meet under the clocks” , you’ll find them here. The building is exquisite both inside and out and well worth a few minutes of your time.

Here’s an interesting fact. Not only is the building impressive, but the railway station is also home to Australia’s longest train platform. With 708 meters (0,44 miles), it is also the 4th longest platform in the world!

The pedestrian crossing outside the station is one of the busiest in all of Melbourne. It’s an experience in itself. Crossing the road here is something that you really should do when visiting the city; just be careful!

Federation Square

As you walk across the road from Flinders Street Train Station, you’ll arrive at Federation Square . It’s a bustling heart of the city with restaurants, bars, and a few shops. It’s also a very popular venue for various events. There always appears to be something going here!

The square holds around 2000 events each year such as New Year’s Eve celebrations, the Melbourne Festival, the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. It is also the site for various public rallies. You can check their official website to see what’s happening there on the day of your visit.

If there is nothing happening on the day you visit, you could spend an hour or so at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) which is located here. The exhibition is free and is an interesting showcase of how TV, film, and other forms of entertainment has evolved over time in Australia. Often, they also have other exhibitions as well.

TIP: While you’re here make sure you pop on over to the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral for a great view of the area.

Street Art & Melbourne Laneways

Melbourne is a hip city. Its famous narrow laneways are lined with trendy cafes and colorful street art is one of the city’s most popular attractions.

If you like looking for street art, head to Hosier Lane . That’s where the most famous artwork is located. As you find your way there, peer down the various narrow laneways and side streets. If you see a group of people standing around, chances are big that there is some great street art here.

As you are well aware, street art changes all the time, so if you want to see some of the best places, consider joining a guided tour with a local. Here you can find a nice selection of Melbourne street art tours and tours that focus on more local experiences.

Coffee & Shopping Arcades

Supposedly Melbourne has the highest density of cafes and restaurants per capita in the world!

As you stroll around in this area, you’ll come across many excellent little cafes hidden away. It might be a good time to stop for a morning coffee or brunch. If you can’t find anything that you like, then head to Degraves Street . Here, you’ll find lots of cafes with outdoor seating.

If you’re into your shopping you’ll also find a range of super cute boutiques in the area too. Or head to one of Melbourne’s shopping arcades. Even if you are not planning to do any shopping, some of these historic arcades are well worth seeing. Check out the Royal Arcade and the Walk Arcade (both on Bourke Street), and also the Block Arcade on Collins Street.

Melbourne Skydeck (previously Eureka Skydeck)

Next, head back out towards the Yarra River and take the footbridge to the other side. The area on the other side of the bridge is called Southbank. It’s home to a range of restaurants, the Crown Casino and the Melbourne Skydeck.

The Melbourne Skydeck is the tallest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a great place to get 360-degree views across the city. The Skydeck is located on the 88th floor, but you wouldn’t know it because the elevator ride takes just a few seconds.

If you have no fear of heights, you may want to try the “Edge Experience”. This is the Southern Hemisphere’s highest viewing platform, a glass cube that sticks 3 meters out from the side of the building offering amazing views. It’s a truly exhilarating experience.

TIP: With just a day in Melbourne and limited time, it’s best to get the entry tickets in advance . On busy days, it can save you quite some time.

Good to know: You don’t need more than 15-20 minutes at the Melbourne Skydeck, plus some time to get to the top, etc. In any case, this is something that you can easily add to your one-day itinerary in Melbourne.

Cruise on the Yarra River

If you’re up for it and time permits, why not take a Yarra River Cruise . It’s a great way to get a different perspective of the city and see many different areas, especially for those who only have limited time. During the cruise, you can sit back and relax as you take in the various city landmarks. It’s also a good way to rest your legs from all the walking.

Some of the highlights of the river cruise include seeing the West Gate Bridge, a 19th-century sailing ship, the Polly Woodside, Docklands Crown Entertainment Complex, Princes Bridge, Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Government House, Olympic Park, Herring Island, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and many more.

There are a variety of river cruises available from either the Southbank side of the river or by Federation Square. So, depending on which side you take your cruise from, you can either do this before or after visiting the Skydeck.

Queen Victoria Market

No doubt by now you’ve well and truly worked up an appetite. So head on over to the Queen Victora Market for lunch. This is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere and features some of Melbourne’s most delicious food!

This place is huge! Any food you can think of, you will find it here. From delicious cheeses from around the world, smoked and cured meats, locally produced wines, freshly cooked donuts, and loads more… So make sure you come with a healthy appetite.

As well as unbelievable food and fresh produce, Queen Victoria Market also houses some great stores selling clothes, antiques, and Aboriginal arts and souvenirs.

Good to know: Queen Victoria Market is open daily except for Mondays and Wednesdays. It closes at 3 PM on weekdays and at 4 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. It’s located a bit further away from the previously mentioned attractions, so you may want to take a free tram to get here faster.

Visit one of the Melbourne Museums

In the afternoon, check out one of the city’s various museums in Melbourne. Depending on your interests, there are loads of options to choose from. With just one day in the city, I suggest you pick just one of the places mentioned below.

A few blocks from Queen Victoria Market is the Melbourne Museum , the largest museum in the Southern Hemisphere. This is a natural history museum where you can see various local historical and cultural artifacts. Here you can learn about the origin of life in Victoria dating back to 600 million years ago, see prehistoric creatures, or learn about Indigenous Culture.

One of my personal favorites is Old Melbourne Gaol . It’s a former jail that has been turned into a museum. For 87 years, this gaol was the home for both minor offenders as well as notorious criminals. It was here that the infamous Australian bushranger Ned Kelly was executed saying the words “such is life”. Wandering through this old prison is a fascinating experience!

This is a good museum to visit as you only need 1-1.5 hours for it. See their website for more information.

Another good option is the Immigration Museum . It’s a fantastic place to learn about the past of the Australian people. This museum is located in the Old Customs House and displays a range of interesting immigrant stories.

Alternatively, you may want to check out the State Library Victoria . The La Trobe Reading Room is spectacular and worth a visit in itself! This impressive reading room has a round shape and is located under a majestic dome. It has become popular with those looking for the best Instagrammable spots in Melbourne.

Other interesting museums to explore include Sceinceworks, the National Sports Museum, the Medical History Museum, and many others. But with just one day in Melbourne, I think you’ll find plenty of better things to do.

Fitzroy Gardens

Historic Fitzroy Gardens is one of the most beautiful parks in Melbourne. It has a model Tudor village, an ornamental shrub, several fountains, lots of flowers, and tree-lined walking paths. There is also a cafe and a playground for kids.

This is not an absolute must in the city, but really nice to see, especially if you are visiting Melbourne with kids. Don’t miss the Cooks’ Cottage and the Conservatory. Kids will love the Dolphin Fountain and the Fairies Tree.

Interesting to know: Captain Cook’s Cottage is the original house of Captain Cook who mapped the east coast of Australia in 1770. The house that originally stood in England, was shipped to Australia in 1934 and re-erected in Fitzroy Gardens.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Melbourne is a great city for sports fans, especially if you happen to be in town on a Friday or Saturday night. One of the best places to be is the Melbourne Cricket Ground , also known as MCG.

If you enjoy cricket, you may even be able to see a game ( check the MCG events calendar ).

But you can also visit Australia’s favorite stadium even if there is no game. They have an interesting museum and offer behind-the-scenes stadium tours .

Catch a Show

If you’re not the sporty type, then how about seeing a theatre production in the evening? Melbourne has some great performances throughout the year at both the Regent Theatre or Princess Theatre .

Some of the shows are so popular that people often fly down to see them from other east coast cities. On the website of the city of Melbourne , you can find a calendar with all the theater performances and shows.

Dinner in Chinatown

There are numerous wonderful places for dinner in Melbourne such as Southbank along the Yarra River or in Lygon Street. But one of the best places for dinner is Melbourne’s Chinatown .

The most popular dish to eat in Chinatown is dumplings! But of course, you’ll find all sorts of Asia cuisines including Thai food, ramen, yum cha, and more.

There is a range of great places to eat. Just follow your nose or better yet, if you find a place with a long line then you know it’s going to be good. Some popular places include Shanghai Village, ShanDong Mama, Longrain, Mr Ramen San, or Secret Kitchen. I indicated all of these in the map above.

Melbourne’s Chinatown is located in the area between Little Bourke Street, from Swanston Street to Spring Street. Be sure to wander down all the little arcades throughout the area as this is where you’ll often find some of the best places.

One Day Melbourne Itinerary

So there you have it, the best things to do on a one day trip in Melbourne. Below, you can find an overview of a perfect Melbourne itinerary for 1 day, following our suggestions above.

Here’s what your day in Melbourne could look like:

• Start your morning at Flinders Street Train Station .
• Head across to Federation Square and see what’s on, if there is nothing on of interest to you, consider checking out the ACMI.
• Check out Melbourne’s famous street art and grab yourself a coffee from one of the cafes in the narrow laneways.
• Cross the Yarra River and check out the city views from the Melbourne Skydeck .
• If time permits take a cruise down the Yarra River .
• Head to Queen Victoria Market for some lunch.
• After lunch, check out one of Melbourne’s great museums and/or check out Fitzroy Gardens .
• In the evening, watch a game, go to the theatre , or take a pub-crawl tour if that’s more your thing.
• Have dinner in Chinatown .

If you find this itinerary too busy and rather have a more relaxing day instead of trying to see everything, skip one or two places that don’t interest you much. Also, if there is something that you absolutely want to see, you may want to do it first to ensure that you don’t run out of time.

TIP: If you want to see all the highlights of Melbourne in a short time or if you rather go discover some hidden gems in the city, you can also consider a walking tour with a local guide. There are various tours available and they usually don’t take more than a few hours. So you can easily incorporate a tour like that in your one-day itinerary.

If You Have More Time

If you have two or three days in Melbourne, consider taking a day trip to see some of the stunning nature nearby. As nice as Melbourne is, it would be a shame not to explore more of its surroundings.

The most popular day trips from Melbourne are the famous Great Ocean Road (must do!), the Grampians National Park (our personal favorite in the area), and Phillip Island , where, among others, you can expect to see koalas and penguins.

Where to Stay in Melbourne

No matter what your budget is, there are plenty of good accommodation options in Melbourne. If you have just one day in Melbourne, I suggest staying very centrally. That way, you can make the most of your time.

Here are some of my personal recommendations for places to stay in Melbourne city center, depending on your budget:

• $$$$$ Grand Hyatt . This centrally located 5* hotel is one of the top picks in Melbourne. Located within easy walking distance from most of the above-mentioned attractions, the hotel features rooms in different sizes, including big family rooms for up to 6 people.
• $$$$ DoubleTree by Hilton . This is a great centrally located 4* hotel , just minutes from Flinders Street Station and all the cool little Melbourne laneways.
• $$$ The Victoria Hotel . This is the most popular lower-mid budget hotel just a short walk from Federation Square. It’s very centrally located and has thousands of great customer reviews.
• $$ Space Hotel . This is a very popular budget hotel with great facilities (including a movie theatre, rooftop bar, and a gym). It has various room types (most with shared bathrooms), but there are also double and family rooms with private bathrooms.

READ ALSO: Great Ocean Road – Best Places to See

More travel tips for Australia:

• Planning a trip to Australia
• Australia itinerary
• 1 Day in Sydney
• Things to Do in Hobart, Tasmania
• Kennet River Koala Walk
• Kangaroo Island
• Alice Springs to Uluru – Red Center Itinerary
• Darwin Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Melbourne Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Melbourne. We've got 127 adventures going to Melbourne, starting from just one day in length, and the longest tour is 50 days. The most popular month to go is March, which has the largest number of tour departures.

127 Melbourne tour packages with 205 reviews

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Great Ocean Road and Rainforest Walk 1 DAY

Great tour leader - Chris.

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Yarra Valley Winery Tour 1 DAY

We had so much fun on tour, especially the last stop, which was extra time for us.

• Coach / Bus
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3 Day Melbourne to Adelaide Overland (One Way)

Private tour winery best driver, friendly and funny and hospitality was sensational

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3 Day Adelaide to Melbourne Overland (One-Way)

We had a brilliant time on this tour. The alternative walks which still afforded magnificent views kept us extremely happy.

Hike the Great Ocean Walk

Melbourne Adventure | ULTIMATE

• €35 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

The Great Ocean Road Melbourne - Adelaide 4 day 3 night Tour

Four days packed with interest and variety, better than I had expected all round, would recommend this tour.

3 Day Melbourne to Adelaide

Great tour, friendly, attentive, knowledgeable, flexible and very sociable.

3 Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians

We saw & learned so much in four packed days. The hotels and included meals were first rate.

Great Ocean Road & Grampians Adventure

We saw a great deal of very interesting views and places. Well worth the upsets and confusion.

Best of Melbourne with Great Ocean Road & Phillip Island

Coastal Drive In Australia

South Australia, Melbourne & the Great Ocean Road

Southern Capitals - City Meets Bush (2024/2025, 5 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Discover Australia National Geographic Journeys

This trip was a dream come true to mystical magical places around Australia!!!

What people love about Melbourne Tours

On the Yarra Valley Tour, the tour guide is Mr. Camel. He is a very friendly guy. We had so much fun on tour, especially the last stop, which was extra time for us (1 hour of sleep).

I enjoyed the experience, overall it was the tours fault the ITN changed due to fires, overall it was good,

Top operators

"The Oz east coast trip with Intro is an amazing way to explore the entire east coast trip fast! It is well organised and as described, with the option to do extra activities along the way too. My leader was Molly who has fantastic. She got the group to each destination safe and sound, without any hassle, and with lots of laughs! She also was extremely knowledgeable about each destination we went to and about the general Aussie culture. She was extremely approachable to any queries that you had and gave me lots of tips and advice for working in OZ after! It is also a great way to make lifelong friends and travel safely. I would definitely recommend. I would also suggest bringing a suitcase or wheely backpack as it is much easier to travel with. 😊

INTRO Travel is an expert in:

"I really liked the itinerary, it was varied with some active days like the hike to Hells gate and back. Other days we could do our own thing which was great. Most of the hostels were to be expected, however the one in Airlie Beach was awfully dirty and lacking basic things such as lockers and safes. Apart from that, I enjoyed the trip!

G Adventures is an expert in:

"Guide was great - friendly, organised, knowledgeable. Back office support was really bad eg. not contacting hotels in previous 3 weeks so hotels didn't know how many were arriving. Taking weeks to confirm if they could provide a single room for a traveller.

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The Essential Melbourne Travel Guide

A city like Melbourne has so much to offer. These are some of the best experiences to put on your to-do list for your next Melbourne holiday.

• City breaks

The heart of Victoria, Melbourne is a city with depth and layers to peel back. Every visit reveals something new: a new café, new art to take in, new experiences to enjoy.

Whether you’ve never been to Melbourne before or you’re a seasoned visitor, there are plenty of exciting new things just waiting for you to discover.

Finding a place to eat in Melbourne isn’t hard. The bustling city seems to have a trendy café on almost every street corner.

But finding the best places to eat in Melbourne, the hidden gems that will make you want to come back to the city with friends to show off the amazing restaurant you found, those are a little more hard to find.

Underground Melbourne Dining

Take Izakaya Den 2029. Formerly known as  Izakaya Den , the restaurant has recently rebranded and reopened with an entirely new look and feel. The entrance to the Den is behind a plain looking door and down a flight of stairs. Once you walk into the space, you’ll be drawn in by the dark stylish aesthetic and the open kitchen filling the room with enticing scents. 

Sky High Melbourne Dining

In contrast to the cosy atmosphere of Izakaya Den 2029, head up to  No. 35  for breath-taking city views to go with a delectable European inspired meal. Seat yourself by one of the massive glass windows that look out over the Melbourne skyline.

Head in for dinner and watch the city start to light up and come alive at night, or enjoy a relaxed brunch and take in the city in all its sunshine-filled glory.

Vegetarian, vegan, dairy free, and gluten free meals are all available without ever sacrificing an inch of quality. From a forest mushroom velouté on toasted brioche with parmesan tuile to Moroccan slow cooked lamb to black forest crème brûlée, each and every dish is a luxurious experience to remember.

French-Melbourne Dining

The door to Bar Margaux is plain and just says “MGX”, but when it opens, you’re met with a vibrant buzz of music and chatter. The space is designed to evoke a late-night, New York-inspired, French bistro.

The menu is unashamedly French and all about the classics such as escargot (snails in lots of garlic and Pernod butter) with the late-night menu ramping it up a notch serving croque monsieur filled with rotisserie lobster. 

Their cocktails lean toward the classics and the wine list offers a good mix of French drops and locally made French varietals. 

Classic Melbourne Dining

Australians love a good steak dinner, and there aren’t any better steakhouses than  Pretty Boy Italian Steakhouse .

For dinner with a show, sit up at the chefs table to watch the talented chefs prepare contemporary Italian cuisine including handmade pasta, crudo and Melbourne’s best dry aged steak from the impressive meat cabinet.

Featuring 30 day dry aged 9+ score Kobe Wagyu porterhouse for melt in your mouth steak dreams are made of.

Their cocktails celebrate Italians finest spirits and liqueurs with its very own bespoke limoncello made right here in Melbourne distilled by Lin Lon Distilling Co & the wine list boasts handpicked Italian drops along with well-crafted Victorian wines.

Melbourne Coffee

Did you know that Melbourne has more than 24 specialty coffee roasters? There’s no way to visit Melbourne and not sample some of the coffee the city is so well-known for.

There are plenty of options, but we recommend a stroll along Centre Place and the charming laneway cafés that sprawl through the street.

Poke your head into one of the hole-in-the-wall restaurants or cafés for your morning caffeine fix and bite to eat. You’ll also be able to see some of Melbourne’s iconic street art within Centre Place.

Melbourne Art

Melbourne is known for being a trendy city, full of art and life. One of the best ways to truly understand the energy of Melbourne is to wander the streets and take in some of the best street art you’re likely to come across anywhere in the world. 

You can book a tour, with a guide who can take you to some of the best hot spots in the city, or you can simply wander at your leisure. The  City of Melbourne has a recommended route and map  to take in some of the best street art.

Try walking Myers Place, one of the oldest laneways in Melbourne. Its grey walls have been brought to life by green galleries, including a giant Mike Makatron mural, 'Jungle Funk'. Then wander the famous Hosier Lane. Hosier Lane celebrates often political graffiti and art installations from local and international artists alike. 

Melbourne Shopping

As you wander through Melbourne, you’d be remiss to ignore some of the best shopping opportunities in the country.

Walk up and down  the Chapel Street Precinct  and pop into whichever store beckons. The Precinct Association is an independent, not-for-profit group that represents the small indie stores that make up the precinct. You won’t find many big-name stores here, but you will find charming vintage shops and unique boutiques. 

Then head to Chadstone, the biggest shopping centre in Australia. You could spend hours, days inside the Chadstone Shopping Centre if you wanted.

Maybe even  stay in the Hotel Chadstone  (connected to the shopping centre via a walkway), for a luxurious experience in the heart of the fashion capital of Melbourne.

Iconic Melbourne Fun

The first Luna Park in Australia opened in Melbourne in 1912 and it has been a place of fun and adventure since. Thrill rides, family rides, sideshows, and more wait beyond the iconic mouth entryway.

Another iconic site in Melbourne is Federation Square. When you think of Melbourne, Fed Square is often one of the first places of interest that comes to mind. And it’s not hard to see why. Fed Square is home to several restaurants and cafés as well as galleries and museums that all embody the casual, trendy energy the city is known for.

Just a street away is St Paul’s Cathedral, a great attraction for history and architecture lovers, as well as Flinders Street railway station, an icon itself in addition to being an important public transportation hub.

Melbourne Sights

There are a lot of ways you can see all that Melbourne has to offer, but the best way to take it all in is from high up in the sky, at the  Melbourne Skydeck .

Head up at sunset to watch the sun paint the sky in warm hues as you look out over not only the city but across the serene Port Philip Bay as well.

The more adventurous visitor may want to try the Skydeck Edge, the only moving glass structure in the world. The Edge is like stepping into Willy Wonka’s glass elevator as you find yourself suspended nearly 300 meters over Melbourne in a glass cube.

If you ever find yourself hungry for views of the city, there are plenty of sights to take in from the Skydeck. 

In a city as varied as Melbourne, you have plenty of options when it comes to where to stay. 

With views of the bustling city below and a fabulous bar and restaurant, the  Quay West Suites Melbourne  stands out as one of the best accommodation options in the city. Apartment-style accommodation keeps you in comfort and control as you can whip up dinner in your room, or pop into the Jarrah Restaurant and Bar for fresh, local food and a glass of wine.

If staying close to the city centre is high on your priority list, the  ibis budget Melbourne CBD  is perfect. Right in the heart of the city, the ibis is well within reach of Federation Square, laneway cafés, and public transportation, if you want to head further out of the city.

The ibis budget Melbourne CBD prides itself on convenience, with inexpensive prices to help you get the most out of your Melbourne holiday. Discover more budget accommodation options in Melbourne to save money to spend on more rich and exciting experiences throughout the city.

In true old meets new fashion, the newly built  Novotel Melbourne South Wharf Hotel  stands proud as one of the newest additions to one of Melbourne’s oldest districts.

The sleek, modern style of the Novotel is accented by opulent elements of gold and marble, making any stay feel palatial. Floor to ceiling windows look out onto Melbourne, letting in plenty of natural light throughout the day and showcasing the inviting city that lights up at night.

For cocktails,  1806  is the place to be. 1806 sits in a building that was once a theatre restaurant, and the owners made good use of the space, turning the stage into the bar.

The floor space is taken up by red velvet and dark leather chairs and overhead chandeliers illuminate the glamourous space. The menu features cocktails from every decade since 1806, the year when the word 'cocktail' was first printed.

The knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to help you decide which drink to try and if you still want to learn more, you can sign up for one of their cocktail masterclasses. 

In St Kilda, head to The Prince rooftop beer garden (stairs and lift access available) to breathe in the fresh air and have a cheeky beer while you’re at it. Look out over views of the bay as well as the city while a DJ plays nearby. If you’re looking for the perfect Saturday afternoon to evening venue with friends, The Prince’s rooftop has to be on your list. 

For more outdoor drinks,  Arbory  sits along the Yarra River as it runs through Melbourne. Beer on tap, sprits, signature cocktails, wine, and more await anyone who walks into Arbory. Grab dinner or a light snack (maybe a cheese plate to share) to go with your drinks as you enjoy the rustic-chic style of this riverside venue.

With all the bar hopping, touring, and walking through the city, you might need to treat yourself to an afternoon of indulgence.

Relax in Melbourne with a visit to a spa. One of the most popular in the city,  Laurel Beauty and Spa  is dedicated to creating a tranquil space for massages, facials, and skin treatments. 

To the south of the Melbourne CBD is St Kilda and, more importantly, St Kilda beach. The beach faces Port Phillip Bay and while the westerly winds can create impressive waves, the bay is protected from ocean swell and often enjoys calm waters.

If you find yourself needing a break, a day in the sun, of lying on soft sand, of wading in cool waters, St Kilda beach is never far away. Grab an ice cream cone from the ice creamery nearby for a sweet treat on a relaxing afternoon.

Back in the heart of the city, when you need to take a moment in nature, try a visit to the  Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria . Seasonal events, workshops, talks, and activities run throughout the year that can enrich your time in the gardens.

Or you can take things at your own pace and stroll through the lush greenery. Grab lunch and a coffee at one of the two dining options within the gardens before finding the perfect tree to relax under with a good book or a loved one. If you are going to spend a large part of your time unwinding in the beauty here, why not find a  hotel close to Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria .

Book Your Melbourne Trip

Melbourne is a bustling city, a city that feels alive, a city that’s begging to be explored. So why not start planning your Melbourne holiday now? Get started by finding your favourite Melbourne hotel .

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Taylor Swift: Homeless face being sent outside of Edinburgh as shows push up hotel demand

Taylor Swift is set to perform at Murrayfield Stadium on 7, 8 and 9 June, with tens of thousands of fans expected to flock to Edinburgh - many with prior hotel reservations.

Scotland reporter @Jenster13

Thursday 30 May 2024 16:33, UK

A number of homeless people face being sent outside of Edinburgh to make way for tourists ahead of Taylor Swift performing in the city.

The City of Edinburgh Council said it is working with those affected to find "alternative accommodation".

The local authority said as a result of its housing emergency, it must at times use tourist accommodation to house homeless people.

However, as it won't be available year-round - particularly over the summer holidays - it is "reluctantly" used as a last resort as a short-term fix and is only booked one week at a time.

Swift is set to perform at Murrayfield Stadium next week on 7, 8 and 9 June, with tens of thousands of fans expected to flock to the Scottish capital to see the US singer - many with prior hotel reservations.

If the council fails to source accommodation in the city, then the homeless households will be moved elsewhere in the country.

There is no evidence of homeless people being removed from accommodation where they are currently staying.

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Councillor Jane Meagher, housing, homelessness and fair work convener, said: "It is a symptom of the housing emergency we face in Edinburgh that at times we must use tourist accommodation to house homeless households.

"We know it won't be available year-round, particularly over the busy summer months, so we use it reluctantly as a last resort.

"We're aware of the situation and are working with the affected households to find appropriate, alternative accommodation."

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Shelter Scotland described the situation as "a blatant injustice".

Alison Watson, director of the charity, said: "This situation is yet further evidence of the urgency of Scotland's housing emergency.

"In Edinburgh that emergency now places people experiencing homelessness in direct competition with tourists; a blatant injustice.

"Our frontline services have seen people in need of a bed tonight being told their only option is to leave the city.

"A family going through the trauma of homelessness in Edinburgh should not have to move miles from their job, school, and community to find emergency accommodation."

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There is a legal obligation for people declared homeless in Scotland to be offered emergency temporary accommodation, and this can come in the form of hotels.

The council declared a housing emergency last November in the face of increasing homelessness figures and a lack of supply.

The Scottish government followed suit earlier this month after sustained pressure from campaigners and opposition parties.

Ms Watson is calling for Holyrood to deliver its promise of a national housing emergency action plan.

She said that without change, the council will be facing the same issue during Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August.

Ms Watson stated: "At a time when the City of Edinburgh Council has declared a housing emergency and the Scottish Housing Regulator says the city's homelessness services are experiencing systemic failure, we need a different response from the Scottish government.

"Scottish ministers must deliver their promise of a national housing emergency action plan that delivers more homes and more money for Edinburgh.

"Without that change we can expect more of the same when the festival kicks off in a few weeks' time."

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City Living At Its Best…

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Contact Agent

Email enquiry to Jellis Craig - Fitzroy

Property ID : 145025528

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Parkside Opulence at the Conservatory

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High Yield Investment (7% p.a.), Perfect Entry Into Luxurious Conservatory Apartment