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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.

CBD

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.

best place to visit melbourne

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#1 – National Gallery of Victoria

National Gallery of Victoria melbourne

  • 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!

ACMI Logo

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

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

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

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#3 – The Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road

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

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

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

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

The Queen Victoria Market

  • 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

The 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

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

The Royal Botanic Gardens

  • 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!

Brunswick Street

  • 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

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

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

Old Melbourne Goal 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!

St. Kilda

  • 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 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

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!

Yarra Valley melbourne

  • 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

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

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

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 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

Phillip Island

  • 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

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

Shrine of Remembrance 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

melbourne 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

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

St. Paul’s Cathedral melbourne

  • 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

Degraves Street melbourne

  • 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

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!

The Adelphi Hotel Pool

  • 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 Centre Place melbourne

  • 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!

Hamer Hall

  • 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

Readings

  • 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 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

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!

Nicholas Building melbourne

  • 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

Beach Road

  • 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

The Forum melbourne

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

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

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

Get insured for your trip to Melbourne!

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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.

best place to visit melbourne

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

Alexandria Zboyovski

Alexandria Zboyovski

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

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

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

Melbourne skyline

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.

Royal Botanic Gardens

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.

Royal Botanic Gardens

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

National Gallery of 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 Great Hall at the National Gallery of Victoria

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

Federation Square

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

Arcade in Melbourne

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

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 Cricket Ground and the National Sports Museum

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

View of Melbourne from the Skydeck at Eureka Tower

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.

Eureka Tower

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

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.

Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building

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

City Circle Tram Tour

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.

Melbourne Zoo

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, Fitzroy Gardens

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

Cruise on the Yarra River

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 .

Shrine of Remembrance

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

Dusk at Docklands in Melbourne

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

Queen Victoria Market

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

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

Immigration Museum

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

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

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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 .

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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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best place to visit melbourne

11 Best Things To Do in Melbourne

Updated April 14, 2021

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

  • All Things To Do

best place to visit melbourne

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.

best place to visit melbourne

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.

best place to visit melbourne

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.

best place to visit melbourne

Popular Tours

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Great Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour from Melbourne

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best place to visit melbourne

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.

best place to visit melbourne

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.

best place to visit melbourne

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.

best place to visit melbourne

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.

best place to visit melbourne

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.

best place to visit melbourne

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best place to visit melbourne

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.

best place to visit melbourne

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.

best place to visit melbourne

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 14 best experiences in Melbourne

Tasmin Waby

Oct 26, 2023 • 8 min read

Woman with a hat taking a coffee in Fitzroy, in Melbourne. Street style.

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. 

Street art or grafitti in a CBD laneway, MELBOURNE

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.

Melbourne skyline from the Royal Botanic Gardens

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. 

The St Kilda Beach W-Class Tram in Melbourne.

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.

chef prepares food in commercial kitchen melbourne

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. 

Facade of the modern Melbourne Museum in Carlton Gardens

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.

Brad Ottens (6) stretched for a ruck contest during Geelong's preliminary final win over West Coast on September 24, 2011

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

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

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

14. Sample gourmet treats at Queen Victoria Market 

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

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

This article was first published June 2021 and updated October 2023

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St Kilda Beach, Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

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Best Melbourne tourist attractions

Zip across the Yarra in a GoBoat

1.  Zip across the Yarra in a GoBoat

  • Things to do

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

See the city from above at Melbourne Skydeck

2.  See the city from above at Melbourne Skydeck

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

Watch the footy at the MCG

3.  Watch the footy at the MCG

  • Sport and fitness
  • East Melbourne

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

Soak away your troubles at Peninsula Hot Springs

4.  Soak away your troubles at Peninsula Hot Springs

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

Catch an event at Federation Square

5.  Catch an event at Federation Square

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

Wander round the Royal Botanic Gardens

6.  Wander round the Royal Botanic Gardens

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

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

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

  • Walks and tours

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

Take a break at the State Library

8.  Take a break at the State Library

  • Attractions

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

Wine and dine in the Yarra Valley

9.  Wine and dine in the Yarra Valley

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

Get up early for the Queen Victoria Markets

10.  Get up early for the Queen Victoria Markets

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

Hit the seaside at St Kilda

11.  Hit the seaside at St Kilda

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

Throw yourself in the cells at the Old Melbourne Gaol

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

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

Explore the historic Abbotsford Convent

13.  Explore the historic Abbotsford Convent

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

Imbibe some culture at National Gallery of Victoria

14.  Imbibe some culture at National Gallery of Victoria

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

Go retro on Brunswick Street

15.  Go retro on Brunswick Street

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

Wander around the Royal Exhibition Building

16.  Wander around the Royal Exhibition Building

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

Check out all six floors of Curtin House

17.  Check out all six floors of Curtin House

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

Hunt out Melbourne's hidden bars

18.  Hunt out Melbourne's hidden bars

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

Let your hair down in Chinatown

19.  Let your hair down in Chinatown

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

Ride along the Yarra Trail

20.  Ride along the Yarra Trail

  • Port Melbourne

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

Expand your mind at Melbourne Museum

21.  Expand your mind at Melbourne Museum

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

Go on a road trip on the Great Ocean Road

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

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

Go penguin spotting at Phillip Island

23.  Go penguin spotting at Phillip Island

  • Wimbledon Heights

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

Meet the animals at Melbourne Zoo

24.  Meet the animals at Melbourne Zoo

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

Take in the sights and shops of Lygon Street

25.  Take in the sights and shops of Lygon Street

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

Immerse yourself in digital art at the Lume

26.  Immerse yourself in digital art at the Lume

  • South Wharf

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

Rock out at a live gig

27.  Rock out at a live gig

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

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13 Best Things to Do in Melbourne

By Krista Simmons

Melbourne Australia Things to Do Bar Rooftop at QT

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.

Melbourne Australia Restaurants Museums Ian Potter Centre NGV Australia

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.

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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.

Melbourne Australia Things to Do Queen Victoria Market

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.

Melbourne Australia Things to Do Block Arcade

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.

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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.

Melbourne Australia Things to Do Bar Rooftop at QT

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 Australia Things to Do Melbourne Cricket Grounds

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 restaurant Melbourne Australia

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.

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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.

Melbourne Australia Things to Do The Rose Street Market

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.

Coffee Shop Bar Melbourne Australia St. Ali

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.

Melbourne Australia Things to Do Federation Square

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.

Melbourne Australia Things to Do St. Kilda

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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The 21 Best Things to Do in Melbourne

The towering skyline of Melbourne, Australia on a bright summer day

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

Cool street art and murals on a narrow road in Melbourne, Australia

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

The stately and spacious interior of the State Library in Melbourne, Australia

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

The historic Flinders Street Station in Melbourne, Australia at night with traffic passing by

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

A bright blue sky over St Kilda beach in Melbourne, Australia

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

The scenic coastal views of Phillip Island near Melbourne, Australia

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

The famed 12 Apostles near Melbourne, Australia on a beautiful, sunny day

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.

Want More Information on Melbourne? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Melbourne for even more planning tips!

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best place to visit melbourne

31 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

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

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

Updated: July 16, 2023

best place to visit melbourne

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

best place to visit melbourne

Hosier Lane

Flinders st, melbourne.

Highly reccommended

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

Block Arcade

282 collins st, melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

Flinders St Station

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

Little Bourke St, Melbourne

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

City Circle Tram

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

Federation Square

Swanston st & flinders st, melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eureka Skydeck

7 riverside quay, southbank.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

State Library of Victoria

328 swanston st, melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27-29 Tattersalls Ln, Melbourne

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

National Gallery of Victoria

180 st kilda rd, melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

Old Melbourne Gaol

377 russell st, melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

Melbourne River Cruise

Yarra river, melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

Rooftop Bar

Swanston st, melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

Queen Victoria Market

Queen st, melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

Melbourne Museum

11 nicholson st, carlton.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

Hot Air Balloon

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

Parliament House

Spring st, east melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

The Yarra Valley

Regional victoria.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

Cooks Cottage

Fitzroy gardens, east melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Brunton ave, richmond.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

Shrine of Remembrance

Birdwood ave, melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

Royal Arcade

335 bourke st, melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

The Yarra Trail

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

Phillip Island

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

Peninsula Hot Springs

140 springs lane, fingal.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

Royal Botanic Gardens

Birdwood avenue, melbourne.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

Melbourne Zoo

Elliott ave, parkville.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

Dandenong Ranges

Great dividing range.

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

St Paul’s Cathedral

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

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

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Explore Victoria

23 Spectacular Melbourne tourist attractions you can’t miss

In a city like Melbourne, you can get stuck eating all the food for your whole visit. Many people visiting Melbourne come for the tiny laneways filled with some of the best food in the world, the cafe culture that many other countries wish they had and the beauty that has won us the most liveable city in the world numerous times…but what are some of the best Melbourne tourist attractions you can’t miss?

For locals, we have our Melbourne favourites, and some Melbourne tourist attractions get lost in the memory bank by accident. There are new Melbourne attractions popping up continuously and changing on a regular basis and at times it is hard to keep up and choose which ones to go to.

Melbourne city skyline overlooking the Yarra River

Places of interest in Melbourne for visitors and residents alike are everywhere in one of the world’s most liveable cities. Let us introduce you to some cool places to visit in Melbourne.

The best Melbourne tourist attractions

Melbourne city is easy to get around and you will find so many amazing things to do in Melbourne. There are Melbourne tourist attractions for all ages, all abilities and for every budget.

Spending time in Melbourne is brilliant. If you are visiting Melbourne for a weekend away you can always find some new Melbourne tourist attractions that you have not been to before. Melbourne is a wonderful city full of culture, fabulous food and sites for everyone.

These Melbourne tourist attractions should go on your next Melbourne getaway itinerary.

Melbourne Skydeck (Eureka Skydeck)

Located on Southbank this viewing platform will give you breathtaking views over the city of Melbourne . The building is just over 297 meters high and the viewing platform has floor-to-ceiling windows giving you an uninterrupted, spectacular view.

If you love heights and want an extra experience at the Eureka Skydeck you can go on The Edge. A top Melbourne tourist attraction that has a unique angle for the thrill-seeker. This glass cube hangs out over the Melbourne streets from the 88th floor.

You will find a small kiosk with snack foods and drinks, with a few seating options, so you can get the full experience while watching the views over Melbourne. If you’re on a romantic evening out in Melbourne, there is a fine dining restaurant with great views you can eat at as well.

Eureka 89 restaurant

If you are looking for an unforgettable Melbourne experience then a meal in the Eureka Skydeck restaurant would make your trip to Melbourne unforgettable.

Southern Hemisphere’s highest viewing deck!

Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006

Opening hours: Daily 12 pm – 10 pm

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Explore Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium in the heart of Melbourne, Australia. Witness awe-inspiring marine life in the massive Oceanarium, interact with penguins in the Antarctic Adventure zone, and admire delicate seahorses in Seahorse Pier.

Inside SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Discover jellyfish, and vibrant coral reefs, and even try Shark Dive Xtreme for a thrilling experience. Nearby, you can stay at the conveniently located apartments and hotels in Melbourne’s CBD , making it easy to access this aquatic wonderland.

Dive into a world of underwater marvels at Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium. Book your Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium tickets today.

Address: King St, Melbourne, VIC 3000

Opening Hours: 10.00-5.00 Monday to Friday and 9.30-5.00 on weekends.

Australian Sporting Museum – Melbourne sightseeing

The Australian Sporting Museum is located at the MCG and is a top of the Melbourne tourist attraction for anyone who loves sport. With interactive displays and a chance to actually play some games, there is a plethora of information about the history of some of the most popular sports in Australia and Victoria.

Address: MCG, Brunton Ave, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 5 pm

The MCG – Tourist Attractions Melbourne

The ‘G’ as many Australians would lovingly call it is the home of sport and one of the top Melbourne tourist attractions. For visitors to Melbourne, this is where you can see some of the sports played in our country, which is an experience in itself!

The MCG is the home to AFL (season running from March to September) and cricket (season running from November to February) and with seating available for 100,000 people it is one of the biggest arenas in the world. Not only can you watch a sporting spectacle you can also tor the stadium and learn about the history and home of all sports in Melbourne.

Did you know the Melbourne Cricket Ground held the Melbourne Olympic Games in 1956 and Pope John Paul II held a mass here on his visit in 1986?

Address: Brunton Ave, Richmond VIC 3002

Opening hours: This will depend on your activity

Shrine of Remembrance

The Shrine of Remembrance is a War Memorial to honour all who served in the Australian Military . It is the National War Memorial of Victoria and is the largest in the State. This makes the Shrine of Remembrance a top Melbourne tourist attraction for anyone who loves history.

You will find the museum at the Royal Botanic Gardens featuring many displays from Returned Soldiers and their families who have donated items, letters and stories to be handed down to the next generations.

The Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne Australia

Address: Birdwood Ave, Melbourne VIC 3001

St Kilda Beach – Melbourne tourist spots

A little over 30 minutes out of the Melbourne CBD you can escape to the St Kilda beach on a hot Melbourne day. Here you will find a calm beach where you can have a paddle or a sunbake while getting beautiful views of the Melbourne skyline. You can get access to the beach via car or easily by public transport.

The St Kilda beach is also a wonderful place to sit and eat at one of the brilliant cafes that line the shore.

St Kilda Beach Little Penguin colony

Another bonus is that St Kilda Beach has a colony of Little Penguins that live there. If you are lucky you can see them come in from the water before dusk along the promenade at the St Kilda Breakwater .

Discover more of Victoria: 11 fun-filled day trips from Melbourne you have to do!

Melbourne Sights – Luna Park

If you have had your fill at the St Kilda beach, then make your way to the iconic Luna Park . This old-time funfair will have you entertained for hours with a hair-raising ride to one of the oldest continually running wooden roller coasters in the world.

There is parking around Luna Park but it is limited and it can be expensive. It is timed and the inspectors are all over it if you are late. The fines are astronomical if you don’t pay.

The scenic railway rollercoaster at Luna Park

Address: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182

Opening hours: Daily 11 am – 10 pm

Southbank – Melbourne places to visit

Wander beside the famous Yarra River with some of the very best restaurants in Melbourne at your fingertips. This is also a lot on during the evening which makes it a perfect romantic stroll. It is busy at times with street performers and art installations. the perfect location for Going on a date in Melbourne .

Planning a day at Luna Park? Here is everything you need to know to plan an epic visit to Luna Park

National Gallery of Victoria

Locally known as the NGV the National Gallery of Victoria is the oldest art gallery in Australia. Here you will find art from all over the world and at times travelling exhibitions as well.

Address: 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006

The City Circle Tram

The iconic Melbourne trams are one of the main features of the city and one that anyone visiting Melbourne must experience. Route 35 is a free route through the streets of Melbourne in an old-style W6 class tram and will see you pass many of the best Melbourne tourist attractions.

Using this tram is a great way to see the city, but it can get busy during holidays. You can plan your trip to Melbourne and all of the Melbourne tourist attractions that are on your must-see list easily with city circle tram route 35.

Cruise the iconic Yarra River

There is no better way to see a city than from the water and a cruise on the Yarra River in Melbourne is no different. Seeing all the best Melbourne tourist attractions from the water takes away the large crowds that can gather in the city and gives you a different view of Melbourne.

There are so many options to cruising the Yarra River when you visit Melbourne, from short cruises to dinner and show options.

Take a scenic 1 hour cruise on the Yarra

With dinner and drinks

Regional Victoria wants YOU! 21 of the best places to visit in Victoria

Queen Victoria Market – Melbourne City attractions

Want a Melbourne tourist attraction with a bit of everything? Then Queen Victoria Market is for you! This amazing mixture of everything Melbourne is famous for is held in one place. Here you will find a food hall with foods from all over the world and a huge fresh food market.

In the back of the market is a large shopping area with Melnpourne tourist souvenirs for you to take home or buy a Melbourne souvenir for friends.

People shopping at the Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne

During the year Queen Victoria Market also olds twilight markets and food truck events, making it one of the most popular Melbourne tourist attractions for the locals too!

China Town Melbourne

Many people visiting Melbourne love to spend some time in Chinatown Melbourne. Not only will you find fantastic food here, but there are plenty of bars with live music and clubs for you to dance the night away.

If you are looking for a great night out with a great meal, China Town is one of the best Melbourne tourist attractions.

Budget travel in Melbourne? Yes!  Here are the best free things to do in Melbourne

Old Melbourne Gaol

One of the oldest Melbourne tourist attractions and probably one with the most colourful past, the Melbourne Gaol can, at times, leave you with goosebumps.

The old bluestone building was home to some of Melbourne’s worst criminals from 1845 until its closure in 1924 and is now a museum where all can learn about the history of the Melbourne criminal system.

Cells are open, and you can also tour the adjourning watch house. The old Melbourne Gaol is also where Ned Kelly was hung.

Address: 377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening hours: Wed-Sun 10 am – 5 pm

Melbourne Museum and The Exhibition Building

Not only is Melbourne blessed with Australia’s oldest Art Gallery, the NGV, but it also has the largest history and cultural museum. Here you will find a plethora of displays, from Australian artefacts to ancient fossils.

At times the Melbourne Museum is also home to touring exhibitions usually held for a few months at a time to give visitors enough time to experience it.

iconic Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Melbourne Museum is located in the Carlton Gardens and is next door to the Royal Exhibition Building which is a UNESCO-graded building.

Address: 11 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053

Opening hours: Daily 9 am – 5 pm

ArtVo – Melbourne tourist places

Artvo at the Docklands puts you in the picture. This immersive ‘trick-art’ gallery allows you to get amazing pictures. You become part of the art with 3D images putting you on a surfboard in big waves, hanging off the side of a Melbourne tram or riding a gondola in Venice.

You will walk through various zones, including the fantasy zone, where people explore the ocean, polar ice caps, space and the forest. If you are visiting Melbourne with kids, this is one of the top Melbourne tourist attractions for families.

Address: 07 Level/1 26 Star Cres, Docklands VIC 3008

Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 6 pm

Sightseeing in Melbourne – Fitzroy Gardens

At the Fitzroy Gardens in Melbourne, you will find the Fairy Tree. The tree was one of the original trees planted over 300 years ago and has fairies carved into it today. Captain Cooks’s cottage was taken stone by stone in England and rebuilt in Melbourne Park. Cook founded Australia on one of his many exploration journeys.

You can wander the gardens and even bring a blanket for a wonderful picnic in the Fitzroy Gardens. This is one of the best Melbourne tourist attractions for relaxing free of charge in the city.

Need summer holiday plans? We have you covered with the best places for a summer holiday in Victoria

Federation Square – a famous place in Melbourne

Once deemed an eyesore by many Victorians, Federation Square has now grown on us and is part of the Melbourne tourist attractions you can’t miss. There are numerous bars and eateries where you can watch the Melbourne world go by. If you are looking for a budget option in Melbourne you can grab a sandwich or take away and sit on the steps.

Building design at Federation Square melbourne

You will also find on occasions that free events are happening in the square.

Flinders Street Station – sightseeing Melbourne

I’ll meet you under the clock! It’s an old saying and one that many Melbournians will know well. It meant I would meet you out the front of Flinders Steet Station, and as the saying says, there are clocks out the front. Flinders Street station was opened in 1854 and is Australia’s oldest train station.

Tour Parliament House

Another great free Melbourne tourist attraction is a tour of the Melbourne Parliament House. Here you can tour the Parliament on weekdays on a 45-minute guided tour. For entry, you will need proof of identity for all who have booked a ticket.

Everyone LOVES a road trip: Use our easy drive North East Victorian road trip itinerary for an epic journey!

Melbourne Immigration Museum

The Melbourne Immigration Museum is a wonderful collection of information and first-hand recollections from people who took the leap and immigrated to Victoria. It goes through the hardships and joys that people find once they reach Victoria.

Here you will also discover the people who helped get Melbourne the reputation of one of the most multicultural cities in the world.

Address: 400 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening hours: Daily from 10 am – 5 pm

Melbourne Zoo

Although visiting a zoo these days is not high on people’s lists of top places to visit, Melbourne Zoo is leading the way in animal conservation, especially for the unique Australian wildlife. Here, you can see all the Aussie animals you have read about in large enclosures with state-of-the-art equipment to keep them safe and healthy.

If you are looking for a full day out then a top Melbourne tourist attraction is the Melbourne Zoo. Many people would rank this as the best Melbourne tourist attraction for tourists visiting Melbourne but locals love it as well.

Overnight camping at Melbourne Zoo in tents!

Address: Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052

Arcades and famous laneways – Melbourne sightseeing

They are all over Instagram, and you can see them on the pamphlets that are released by the Victorian tourism associations, looking magnificent rain, hail or shine. The Melbourne Laneways and alleys are not only picture-worthy they are filled to the brim with amazing cafes, original art shops and quirky, vintage clothes sellers. You can find yourself lost in what treasures they hold for hours.

One of the many popular Melbourne lane ways with street art.

Melbourne Street art – what not to miss in Melbourne

One of the very best free Melbourne tourist attractions is the Melbourne street art installations. These amazing works of art are located all over the city in small lanes and painted by local artists as well as visiting artists from all over the world.

You will find so many around the city with more being added every day. If you are looking for some free Melbourne tourist attractions to visit then the Melbourne street art lanes are for you.

Some Melbourne street art lanes are:

  • Hosier Lane

Secret galleries, hidden shops, and lane way cafés.

There are so many amazing Melbourne tourist attractions, so put some of these amazing places on your next Melbourne trip itinerary. Attractions in Melbourne are everywhere, and you will never be short of Melbourne things to do.

Don’t forget, there are numerous places to go in Melbourne, ranging from the iconic Federation Square to the vibrant laneways filled with street art and trendy cafes. Melbourne offers a wide range of attractions for families, including the Melbourne Zoo, Luna Park, and the Royal Botanic Gardens

We hope this article from us here at Explore Victoria has inspired you to embark on your adventure in Victoria, Australia, from popular  caravan parks  and  pristine beaches  to drives along the  Great Ocean Road . Enjoy weekends away on the Mornington Peninsula and discover the cosmopolitan charm of  Melbourne, Victoria ,  with a range of experiences for every traveller who wants to visit Victoria.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Grampians, the cultural richness of Ballarat , or the autumn colours of  Bright  and  Northern Victoria , there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Victoria.

Even if you love  exploring Gippsland  or driving the  Great Alpine Road , Victoria has something special for you, and there is so much more for you to discover. If you are looking for more incredible and best places to  visit in Melbourne  or more travel in Victoria destinations,  Explore Victoria  has some more articles below for you to check out. Expand your horizons and get out and about in Victoria, Australia, for an unforgettable experience. 

If you have an idea, attraction, or top spot in Victoria, please comment or email us at  [email protected] .

More best places to visit in Victoria inspiration

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evbiorebecca

Bec Wyld is the creative force behind the words, blending Explore Victora with a touch of wanderlust. With an innate ability to tell a story that resonates, Bec invites readers on a journey through her home of Victoria Australia. Beyond the keyboard, Bec works in Aged Care helping people to live a better life. With a pen in one hand and on the road in front Bec is on a quest to inspire those looking to explore Victoria through words, images and lifestyle

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Places to Visit in Melbourne

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Tourist Places in Melbourne

Skydeck, Melbourne

Eureka Tower Melbourne (Melbourne Skydeck)

Eureka Tower Melbourne (Melbourne Skydeck)

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

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

Melbourne Skydeck Tickets

Luna Park Melbourne

Luna Park Melbourne

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

Top Experiences To Do in Luna Park Melbourne

Luna Park Tickets, Melbourne

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

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

Top Experiences To Do in Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Melbourne SEA Life Aquarium & Legoland Discovery Center Tickets

Healesville Sanctuary

Healesville Sanctuary

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

Top Experiences To Do in Healesville Sanctuary

Puffing Billy & Healesville Sanctuary Tour, Melbourne

Yarra Valley, Melbourne

Yarra Valley, Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

Top Experiences To Do in Yarra Valley, Melbourne

Explore behind the bar section of wineries

Peninsula Hot Springs

Peninsula Hot Springs

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

Top Experiences To Do in Peninsula Hot Springs

Peninsula Hot Springs Day Trip From Melbourne

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Melbourne Cricket Ground

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

Top Experiences To Do in Melbourne Cricket Ground

Sports Venue Sightseeing Tour, Melbourne

Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

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

Top Experiences To Do in Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

Queen Victoria Market Ultimate Foodie Tour

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iFly Melbourne

iFly Melbourne

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

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child Melbourne

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child Melbourne

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

Escape Room

Escape Room

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

Flinders Street Railway Station

Flinders Street Railway Station

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

St Paul's Cathedral Melbourne

St Paul's Cathedral Melbourne

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

National Gallery Of Victoria

National Gallery Of Victoria

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

Royal Botanical Gardens Melbourne

Royal Botanical Gardens Melbourne

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

Federation Square

Federation Square

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

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Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo

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

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

Top Experiences To Do in Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo Tickets

Puffing Billy Railway

Puffing Billy Railway

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

Top Experiences To Do in Puffing Billy Railway

St kilda beach.

St Kilda Beach

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

Melbourne Museum

Melbourne Museum

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

Crown Melbourne

Crown Melbourne

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

Royal Exhibition Building

Royal Exhibition Building

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

Shrine Of Remembrance

Shrine Of Remembrance

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

Old Melbourne Gaol

Old Melbourne Gaol

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

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Chinatown, Melbourne

Chinatown, Melbourne

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

Collins Street

Collins Street

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

Southbank

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

South Melbourne Market

South Melbourne Market

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

Enchanted Adventure

Enchanted Adventure

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

Maru Koala and Animal Park

Maru Koala and Animal Park

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

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach

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

Top Experiences To Do in Brighton Beach

Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tour

Melbourne Central

Melbourne Central

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

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Immigration Museum

Immigration Museum

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

People Also Ask About Melbourne

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

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

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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

Melbourne Coffee Tours

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

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

Hardware Lane

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

Flinders Street Station

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

the Palais Theatre

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

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

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

Hellenic Museum

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

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

The Melbourne Government Post Office

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

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

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

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

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

the Ian Potter Museum of 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

Little Italy

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

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 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

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

White Night

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

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

National Gallery of Victoria

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

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

best place to visit melbourne

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

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

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

25 Best Things To Do In Melbourne (Australia):

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

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  • Preparing For Your Cruise
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  • Destinations

15 Best Places to Visit in Melbourne

By Daniel James Clarke

Last updated: March 6th, 2023

Royal Exhibition Building, one of the best places to visit in Melbourne

  • Find a Cruise

Melbourne is an enchanting destination to explore thanks to its rich tapestry of culture, coast, countryside—and coffee.

Australia’s second city, set in the southeastern state of Victoria, is a laid-back metropolis of tramways, laneways, and beautiful beaches. Melbourne is adorned with Victorian-era buildings, tempting museums and galleries, and prominent performing arts venues.

Melbourne also acts as a great gateway to the verdant wineries, wildlife viewing, and dramatic coastline that the state of Victoria is recognized for–with some of the best places to go just a short drive away.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Melbourne on your next vacation.

Federation Square

Unique architecture in Federation Square

Commonly referred to as Fed Square, this central hub of creativity, culture, cuisine, and compelling performing arts has quickly become one of the city’s leading attractions since its opening in 2002.

Centrally located across from Flinders Street Station, the public plaza is flanked by the impressive Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), a museum dedicated to the silver screen and digital media, housed in a remarkable triangle pattern-clad building.

Further cultural exhibitions can be enjoyed at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, a branch of the National Gallery of Victoria dedicated entirely to Australian art, both contemporary and Indigenous, and the Koorie Heritage Trust, a First Nations owned cultural center hosting Aboriginal events and exhibitions.

Federation Square with view of Riverland restaurant

After your cultural fix, make time for refreshments. Sample a local craft brew at Riverland, sitting alongside the Yarra River, snack on sensational sushi at Chocolate Buddha, or enjoy a classic late-morning Aussie brunch at Time Out Café.

Melbourne’s Laneways

Street art of Melbourne’s Laneways

Melbourne’s Laneways Photo by Bex Walton on Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0

For the best introduction to the lively lifestyle of Melburnians, dive into the vibrant laneways that are a cornerstone of the city’s culture.

While Melbourne is home to an ever-growing population of some five million people, a trip down these celebrated alleys serves up a small-town vibe. Be drawn into a smorgasbord of street art, chic coffee shops, bustling boutiques, and many more of the city’s secrets.

Flat white at a cafe in Melbourne

With more than 40 laneways, you’ll need to whittle down the best ones to visit. Perhaps the most illustrative laneway is Centre Place, an ideal lunch destination for European-focused dishes and perfectly crafted coffee—the flat white is a Melbourne staple.

For more upscale dining, you’ll want to make a beeline to Flinders Lane, where premium restaurants serve up internationally inspired plates.

People exploring Hosier Lane

Hosier Lane Photo by Bernard Spragg. NZ on Flickr, licensed under CC0 1.0

To dig deeper into the city’s street art scene, head to Hosier Lane, which is by far the most famous for its constantly changing selection of colorful murals. Union Lane and Presgrave Place are other popular spots to admire the art form of authorized graffiti.

If retail therapy is calling, round off your laneway experience by visiting some of the most interesting shopping arcades that Australia is known for , with the Royal Arcade, the nation’s oldest, and The Block.

Melbourne Museum

Unique architecture of the Melbourne Museum

Melbourne Museum Photo by Francisco Anzola on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 3.0

Nestled inside the Victorian-era Carlton Gardens, the Melbourne Museum, with its futuristic exterior, provides a modern contrast to the historic manicured grounds.

Dinosaur skeleton in Melbourne Museum

As you explore the galleries and interactive exhibitions focused on nature and the state’s heritage, you’ll discover the history and landscape of Victoria, from rainforests to an immersive world of dinosaurs.

Be sure to visit the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, housed within the Museum. This incredible space is focused entirely on the achievements, culture, and history of Victoria’s Aboriginal people. Through storytelling, performances, and displays from the Koorie community, the Cultural Centre provides a first-hand understanding of Indigenous history.

Royal Exhibition Building

Royal Exhibition Building, one of the best places to visit in Melbourne

Opposite Melbourne Museum, also in Carlton Gardens, the UNESCO-listed Royal Exhibition Building shares another side of Melbourne’s history. Constructed for the international exhibitions of 1880 and 1888, this Australian landmark is one of the oldest exhibition pavilions remaining globally.

Aerial view of the Royal Exhibition Building

Over the past 140 years, the grand building has served various purposes beyond its initial intention, from hosting the opening of the first Australian Parliament and operating as a hospital to acting as an Olympics venue. Thankfully, much of the original building is still standing and has been lovingly restored, allowing for impressive events to grace its halls again.

If you’re visiting Melbourne while the pavilion isn’t in use, you can join a guided tour to admire the impressive blend of Renaissance, Byzantine, and Romanesque elements which adorn the interior.

St. Kilda Beach

St Kilda Beach, one of the best places to visit in Melbourne

While Brighton Beach–with its iconic and colorful early 1900s Bathing Boxes–is one of the city’s most recognized sandy stretches, a day trip to the suburb of St Kilda promises much more than just a chance to top up your tan.

Waterfront view of Luna Park, St. Kilda Beach

Luna Park, St. Kilda Beach

This eclectic neighborhood, only four miles from the city center, is renowned for boutiques of inspired apparel, creative cafés, farm-to-fork restaurants, and the beloved Luna Park theme park.

It’s also home to an ever-growing creative arts scene, with the recently renovated 1927 Palais Theater (the largest seated theater in Australia ) just moments from the beach.

Beyond the palm-lined boardwalk that frames the golden sands, the lapping waves of St Kilda Beach will happily lull you into a state of relaxation.

Plate of savory chicken parma with wine

Chicken parma

Once you’ve made the most of the shoreline, head to St. Kilda Sea Baths to wine and dine. With a handful of bars and restaurants to choose from in this historic pavilion, you can enjoy some signature Aussie dishes such as fish and chips or chicken parma (Australian for “parmigiana”), with oceanside views.

Little Penguin spotted in St. Kilda Breakwater

Little Penguin in St. Kilda Breakwater

One of the best things to do in Melbourne with kids is to stroll along St. Kilda Breakwater, a pier famous for its “residents”, who make a special evening appearance. Just after sunset, the colony of Little Penguins waddle their way back home, making for a terrific opportunity to spot these adorable creatures.

Read: Best Beaches in Melbourne

Eureka Skydeck

View outside the Eureka Skydeck

One of Australia’s tallest buildings and home to the highest observation platform in the southern hemisphere, the Eureka Skydeck soars above the city’s sophisticated Southbank neighborhood .

Undoubtedly the best place to go in Melbourne for a birdseye view of the metropolis, it’s not just the 360° panoramas that await you at the top. Settle in at a window-side table at Bar 88 to enjoy the outstanding perspective while sipping on a coffee or cocktail, or head to the top floor where Eureka 89 restaurant awaits.

With an inspired tasting menu crafted by award-winning chef Renee Martillano, it’s a refined spot in which to enjoy lunch with a view.

View of the Edge in Eureka Skydeck

Edge, Eureka Skydeck Photo by Long Zheng on Flickr, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

If you seek an adrenaline-pumping extra, then the “Edge” experience is an exciting addition. Step into a protruding glass cube suspended nearly 1,000 feet above the city and marvel at the incredible vertical view—it’s certainly a moment you won’t forget.

Read: Amazing Places to Go This Summer in Australia

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Aerial view of Melbourne Cricket Ground

If you’re a fan of Australia’s national sport, cricket, this mega stadium is one of the best places to go in Melbourne during your visit.

Affectionately known as “The G” by locals, Melbourne Cricket Ground is one of the largest in the world, with the capacity to accommodate up to 100,000 spectators. It’s challenging to comprehend the stadium’s sheer scale until you’re standing by the wicket.

Street view of Melbourne Cricket Ground

During a one-hour tour, you’ll not only have the chance to go behind the scenes of this iconic arena but also follow in the footsteps of cricketing legends, and set foot on the famous grass.

Take a sneak peek into the players’ changing rooms, visit the famous Long Room (previously named the Members’ Lounge), and extend your tour to include the Australian Sports Museum located within the grounds.

The Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles

View of The Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road

One of Australia’s most awe-inspiring routes, The Great Ocean Road is a captivating coastal drive of crumbling cliffs, dreamy Australian beaches , and untamed waves, courtesy of the Southern Ocean.

While it might be tempting to take the more direct inland route to the 12 Apostles, a series of limestone sea stacks and arguably the route’s most famous sight, half of the magic is found in the journey.

Koala spotted in Otway National Park

Koala in Otway National Park

Beginning in Torquay, just over an hour from Melbourne, for the most part, the Great Ocean Road hugs the coast, passing sun-drenched villages and golden bays. A popular detour along the way is through Otway National Park to spot koalas in the wild.

12 Apostles, one of the best places to visit in Melbourne

12 Apostles

On arrival at the 12 Apostles, of which only eight remain standing, the sea breeze and awe-inspiring cliffs set the scene for one of Australia’s most beautiful places . Just beyond the Apostles, the laid-back coastal town of Port Campbell is the perfect spot to enjoy lunch before laying out your towel on the pocket-sized beach.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Lush landscape of Royal Botanic Gardens

Hugging the Yarra River, the cherished Royal Botanic Gardens have been one of the best places to visit in Melbourne since their opening in 1846.

This delightful verdant space is the perfect urban refugee, with more than 8,000 plant species across the garden’s 38 hectares. Pristine and picturesque collections of rainforest flora, threatened species, bamboo gardens, and ornamental and lily lakes will take your senses on a journey of aromas accompanied by the soundtrack of birds such as spinebills and cormorants.

Fitzroy Gardens

Beautiful Fitzroy Gardens with fountain

The Victorian-era Fitzroy Gardens is another of the city’s delightful green spaces. Created as a reserve in 1848, and thus one of the most historic parks in Melbourne, it’s a serene setting of ornamental shrubs and landscaped lawns and flowers.

You’ll also find heritage buildings dotted around the park, such as the Corinthian style bandstand and the 1930s Conservatory, which houses mesmerizing seasonal floral displays.

Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges

Lush vineyards in Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley

While some visitors to Melbourne will opt to walk the Capital City Trail along the Yarra River or take a river cruise, those in the know will follow the river inland to the Yarra Valley.

Around 20 miles from the city, this lush natural setting of breathtaking scenery and celebrated vineyards is undoubtedly one of the best places to go in Melbourne’s surrounding region.

Spend a lazy day hopping between cellar door tastings and meeting the makers before enjoying a refined farm-to-table menu in one of the region’s acclaimed restaurants. With countless award-winning vintages to sample from exceptional estates such as Yering and Rochford Wines, prepare your palate for an extraordinary experience.

Steam train in Dandenong Ranges

Dandenong Ranges

Ramblers and wildlife-seekers will also find refuge in the valley. The Dandenong Ranges are an ideal place to traverse bushwalking trails, spot king parrots dancing in the canopy, or simply soak in the scenery of the Sherbrooke Forest on an antique train ride.

Read: Best Wine Cruise Destinations for Oenophiles

National Gallery of Victoria

Exterior of National Gallery of Victoria

National Gallery of Victoria Photo by Donaldytong on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

The main National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) on St. Kilda Road is home to a vast collection of international art from all four corners of the globe.

With a treasure trove of over 70,000 pieces hosted across permanent displays and temporary exhibitions, and an extensive program of talks and tours to enjoy throughout the year, the NGV remains one of the best places to visit in Melbourne.

From thought-provoking fashion, paintings from acclaimed artists, and the often less explored topics presented in the temporary spaces, you’ll quickly appreciate why this is Australia’s most visited gallery.

Healesville Sanctuary

Kangaroos resting in Healesville Sanctuary

Kangaroos in Healesville Sanctuary

Shrouded by Bushland, the Sir Colin Mackenzie Sanctuary (located in Healesville) is an expansive conservation zoo where you’ll enjoy the chance to spot native wildlife in a protected environment.

An hour inland from the city, the sanctuary is one of the best places to go in Melbourne’s Yarra Valley to learn about the many protected and indigenous species. Here you’ll have the chance to tour various habitats ranging from wetlands to woodlands, recreating the typical surroundings of the animals’ usual territory.

Dingo spotted in Healesville Sanctuary

Dingo in Healesville Sanctuary

Wander the main track to encounter beguiling birds, such as the native emu or orange bellied parrot, before heading to Kangaroo Island to spot everyone’s favorite furry marsupial. Continue along the bushland trail, where wombats, wallabies, and koalas reside, followed by the chance to spot the naturally shy dingo (a distant relative of the Indian Wolf) or the equally scary-sounding Tasmanian Devil.

Try to attend one of the Keepers’ Talks for an intriguing insight into the stories and facts about the native species direct from those who care for the animals.

Queen Victoria Market

Entrance to Queen Victoria Market

One of the best places to visit in Melbourne for tasty treats, retail therapy, and to search for souvenirs, Queen Victoria Market has been a beloved part of the city’s landscape since 1878.

You’ll find everything from fresh produce and handmade pearl jewelry to bamboo crafts and specialized culinary cookbooks. With over 600 small businesses under the same roof, you’ll be hard-pressed not to come away with something special.

When you’ve exhausted all the stalls, settle into the fantastic food hall to devour regional delicacies and diverse international cuisine or sip on a local craft beer.

Abbotsford Convent

Street view of Abbotsford Convent

Abbotsford Convent Photo by Michael Coghlan on Flickr, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Boasting the title of Australia’s largest multi-arts precinct, this National Heritage-listed building, which originally opened as a convent in 1863, is another of the best places to visit in Melbourne to experience the city’s cultural scene.

View of the peaceful Abbotsford Convent

Abbotsford Convent Photo by ToMelbourne.com.au on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 4.0

The verdant grounds of the convent are open 365 days a year and provide the perfect place to pause, whether on the sun-kissed lawn or under the flora-shaded deck of Kappaya, where you can refuel with an organic coffee.

Self-guided audio tours can be downloaded to your phone to explore the grounds and learn more about the precinct’s history. Of particular interest is the Indigenous Sound Trail, created by the Traditional Custodians of the land, the Wurundjeri Elders, featuring soundscapes by celebrated local musicians.

Inside, the convent has been lovingly reimagined and is now home to over 100 artists’ studios, the work of the artists displayed in temporary exhibitions at St Heliers Street Gallery.

Pretty waterfront of Melbourne

Are you eager to explore the best of Melbourne and all of Australia’s outstanding attractions? Browse Celebrity Cruises’ luxury cruises to Melbourne to start planning your next vacation to the “Land Down Under”.

Daniel James Clarke

Daniel James Clarke is a British-born travel writer and photographer, now calling Portugal home—and yes, eating far too many pastéis de nata . His writing has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and The Times, and he is happiest exploring a new destination, from indulgent local restaurants to scuba diving adventures.

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Australia » Places

Top 25 Mesmerizing Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

  • Bhavya Singh
  • Updated January 22, 2024

Melbourne

Popularly known as the cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne is an enthralling place that can leave you stunned with its rich culture, coast, cuisines, festivals, and coffee. The city is an admired tourist attraction with a unique blend of art, culture, and nature. 

The theme parks, laneways, and museums make Melbourne a perfect place for adventure enthusiasts. Melbourne has something for everyone, so, if you are a nature and wildlife gateway person, worry not, Melbourne won’t disappoint you with that too. Without any further delay, let’s discuss some captivating tourist attractions in Melbourne.

Best Places to Visit in Melbourne

Eureka skydeck, federation square, puffing billy railway steam train, sovereign hill, melbourne museum, royal exhibition building.

  • Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Healesville Sanctuary

Melbourne cricket ground, royal botanic gardens, fitzroy gardens, werribee zoo.

  • Queen Victoria Market

Melbourne Zoo

Otway fly zipline, gumbuya world, abbotsford convent, national gallery of victoria, the great ocean road and 12 apostles, st. kilda beach, melbourne’s laneways, luna park melbourne, virtual reality escape room, legoland discovery centre, scienceworks, tips to make your melbourne trip memorable.

Need help in deciding where to go in Melbourne, we got you covered. Melbourne has so much to explore that sometimes it gets hard to decide what exactly you should start with. The below-given list will suggest you some of the best places to go in Melbourne so that you don’t miss any exotic and worth-visiting locations. 

Eureka Skydeck is a 285-meter-high viewing platform and one of the major tourist attractions in Melbourne. It is the highest observation point in the Southern Hemisphere, that’s why it is listed among the best places in Melbourne. The iconic 360° view of the city from Eureka Skydeck will leave you mesmerized. You can also get binoculars and viewfinders there to get a closer look at a particular place in the city.

Eureka Skydeck

Visiting Time – From 10 am to 10 pm

Favorable Season to Visit – Spring and Summer

Entry Ticket: –

  • For Adults – $12
  • For Children Below 4 – $8 
  • Concession Tickets – $10

Popularly known as Fed Square, Federation Square is an unskippable name when talking about the best places to visit in April in Melbourne. Established in 2002 at Flinders Street Station in Australia, Fed Square is a central hub of creativity, culture, and cuisine. It has become a popular exhibition site since its opening. 

Federation Square

Visiting Time – Open 24 hrs a day

Favourable Season to Visit: – 

  • March to May 
  • September to November 

Entry Ticket – Free entry 

If you are a nature lover who prefers being close to nature, you would love Puffing Billy Railway Steam Train. Operational since 1900, Puffing Billy Railway Steam Train is a historic train that takes passengers through the verdant rainforest of the Dandenong Ranges. 

Puffing Billy Railway Steam Train

The train gives a nostalgic Vintage train vibe and is perfectly maintained by the authorities. Boarding a Puffing Billy Railway Steam Train feels like traveling back in time, which makes it a major Melbourne tourist attraction.

Operation Days – Operates daily except Christmas Day

Best Season to Visit – Summer 

  • Family – $196.50
  • For Adults – $78.50
  • For Children 4-15 – $39.50
  • Infants – Free

The operational charges of Puffing Billy Railway Steam Train may vary depending on your starting point and destination. 

The Sovereign Hill will remind you of the Gold Rush Days. You can travel back in time and experience Ballarat’s Gold Rush Era at Sovereign Hill through the immersive exhibits. To get the exclusive vintage experience, you can ride a carriage across the streets. Besides, you can also learn traditional crafts and communicate with locals to connect with the people.

Sovereign Hill

Public Visiting Hours – Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm 

Favourable Season to Visit – October to April

  • For Adults – $49
  • For Children 5 to 15 – $29
  • Family (2 Adults and 2 Children) – $129
  • Single Parent Family (1 Adult and 3 Children) – $93
  •  Concession Tickets – $40

The Melbourne Museum is located inside the Victorian-Era Carlton Gardens and gives a modern contrast to historic manicured grounds. Melbourne Museum is an incredible place that has stored the history and landscape of Victoria, from rainforests to dinosaurs. 

Melbourne Museum

The interactive exhibitions and galleries have not missed even a single segment of Victorian history. It is among the most fascinating Melbourne tourist attractions that introduces visitors to the rich history of Melbourne. 

Visiting Time –  From 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Good Friday and Christmas) 

Favourable Months to Visit – September to May 

  • Adults – $15 (estimate)
  • Seniors – $10 (estimate)
  • Child – Free

Located exactly opposite to Melbourne Museum, the Royal Exhibition Building is a UNESCO-listed royal building that proudly represents Melbourne’s history. The exhibition building was constructed for international exhibitions in 1880 and 1888 and is counted among the landmark places in Melbourne. This Australian masterpiece is the only oldest exhibition pavilion left in the world. 

Royal Exhibition Building

Public Visiting Hours – From 9 am to 5 pm

Best Season to Visit – Spring

  • Adults – $29
  • Senior Citizen – $32
  • Children below 3 yrs of age – Free 

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium 

The Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium unlocks the door of the majestic underwater world for tourists. The aquarium is home to diverse marine species, and you can closely explore the sea creatures in several themed zones inside the aquarium. 

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Mermaid Garden is the center of attraction in the museum, as it has astonishing mermaid statues surrounded by sharks. The best part about visiting the museum is that you can enjoy all those exhibits without harming or scaring the underwater creatures. 

Public Visiting Hours – From 9:30 am to 5 pm

Favourable Time to Visit: – 

  • September to November
  • For Adults – $47
  • For Children 3 to 15 yrs – $32 
  • Infants – Free  
  • Concession Tickets – $36 

The charges of the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium may vary during the off-peak weekdays.

Nested around bushland, Healesville Sanctuary is a famous Melbourne Sightseeing location. It is an expansive conservation zoo that preserves native wildlife by providing a protected environment. 

Healesville Sanctuary

Healesville Sanctuary is a beautiful place best suited for people who have a knack for wildlife photography. During your visit to the Healesville Sanctuary, you can get an interesting insight into the specialty and facts of native stories from locals. 

Favourable Time to Visit – Early in the Morning 

Entry Ticket: – $42 (estimate) 

If you are a cricket lover, Melbourne Cricket Ground is a must-visit place for you. Popularly referred to as “The G,” Melbourne Cricket Ground is one of the largest cricket grounds in the world, with a capacity to accommodate 10,000 spectators in one sitting. 

Melbourne Cricket Ground

The size of the stadium is quite big, and you would require a lot of time to visit the major attractions like changing rooms, members’ lounge, national sports museum, and playing area in the stadium.

Public Visiting Hours – From 10 am to 3 pm

Best Months to Visit: – 

  • For Adults – $35
  • For Children up to 15 – $18
  • Concession Tickets – $29

Inaugurated in 1846, Royal Botanic Gardens is a peaceful parkland with diverse flora and exceptional landscape. Royal Botanic Gardens have a significant role in preserving endangered plant species and plant research. 

Royal Botanic Gardens

Once you visit the park, you will witness the plethora of plants and due to the beautiful plant species, it is considered amongst the best places to visit in Melbourne CBD. 

Visiting Time – From 7 am to 6:30 pm (estimate)

Favourable Months to Visit – April to July

  • For Adults – $5.50
  • For Children and Senior Citizens – $4.40

Created as a reserve in 1848 Fitzroy Gardens is a gratifying plant conservative with historic significance. It is considered as one of the most historic parks in Melbourne that has beautiful shrubs, lawns, and flowers. 

Fitzroy Gardens

In Fitzroy Gardens, you will see a dotted heritage building around the park with seasonal floral displays. The views, vibe, and calmness of the environment make it one of the most beautiful places in Melbourne that you must visit.

Favourable Season to Visit – Autumn (March to May)

Entry Ticket: – Free

Visiting Werribee Zoo can give you an African Safari experience in Melbourne. The zoo has several wild cats and other animals, and you can observe them and their habitat just by riding on a safari jeep or some other vehicle. 

Werribee Zoo

Werribee Zoo is a great place to visit with family, your kids will absolutely enjoy watching animals in their habitat. It is a place where animals from African Savannah visit freely without any fear, and watching them is absolute bliss. 

Visiting Hours for Public – From 9 am to 5 pm

Best Time to Visit – Early in the Morning and Late Afternoon

  • For Adults – $42
  • For Children (4-15) – Free on Weekends and Holidays and $21 on Weekdays
  • Concession Tickets – $31.50
  • Seniors – $38

Queen Victoria Market 

Queen Victoria Market is one of the best tourist places in Melbourne, ideal for searching for souvenirs, tasty treats, and retail therapy. Since 1878, the exquisite market has been an iconic part of the city’s landscape and offers a lot of things to shopping enthusiasts. Queen Victoria Market assembles over 600 businesses under one roof and provides a popular platform to them for selling their products.

Queen Victoria Market

Visiting Time: –

  • Tuesday – 9 am to 3 pm
  • Thursday – 9 am to 3 pm
  • Friday – 9 am to 3 pm
  • Saturday – 9 am to 4 pm
  • Sunday – 9 am to 4 pm

Best Time to Visit – Early Morning

Entry Ticket: – Free for 6 am to 9 am, after that $6 for two hours

Melbourne Zoo is another celebrated tourist attraction in Melbourne for wildlife enthusiasts. The popular zoo is full of greenery with Sumatran Tigers, Orangutans, Snow Leopards, etc., which makes it a perfect escape place from the hustle-bustle of the city. Melbourne Zoo is among the best places to visit in Melbourne, so you should immediately add it to your bucket list.

Melbourne Zoo

Best Time to Visit – Prefer coming early in the morning

  • For Children – Free 

Otway Fly Zipline is the dream destination for adventure enthusiasts. The zipline will take you 30 meters above the rainforest, thus allowing you to enjoy the diverse flora and fauna and spectacular view. 

Otway Fly Zipline

With its alluring views and peaceful acquaintance, the Otway Fly Zipline is one of the best places to visit in Melbourne in summer. The Otway Fly Zipline will thrill you and give you a memorable experience for a lifetime.

Visiting Time For People – From 10 am to 5 pm daily

Best Season to Visit – Visit in summer for the best experience and to avoid rain

  • For Adults – $120
  • For Children (5 to 15 years) – $85
  • Family Tickets (2 Adults and 2 Children) – $375

Popularly known for the adventure rides, the Gumbuya World is a three-in-one combination of the theme park, water park, and wildlife park. You can enjoy adventures of rides and thrilling activities in the lap of nature away from the buzzing life of the city. Gumbuya World is the only place in Melbourne that provides all three unique experiences in one place.

Gumbuya World 

Take Note: Remember that due to weather changes throughout the year, one of the three parks may not be operational on certain days.

Visiting Time – 10 am to 4 pm on wildlife days and 10 am to 6 pm on water, wildlife, and rides days

Best Season to Visit – Summer

  • For Adults – $52.29
  • For Children (3 to 15) – $49.19

Inaugurated as a convent in 1863, the Abbotsford Convent is a National Heritage building which is Australia’s largest multi-art area. The building proudly showcases the city’s cultural scenes. You can download self-guided audio tours to your phone to explore the campus and history of the building. 

Abbotsford Convent

If you are a music lover, you will definitely love the Indigenous Sound Trail, originally created by the Wurundjeri Elders, who are the Traditional Custodians of the land. It features soundscapes by popular and admired local musicians.

Visiting Time: –

  • Sun to The – 7:30 am to 9:30 pm
  • Wed to Sat – 7:30 am to 10:30 pm
  • Closed on public holidays

Situated on St. Kilda road, the National Gallery of Victoria has a vast collection of international art from all around the world. The gallery has a treasure of over 70,000 unique and exclusive pieces hosted across permanent displays and temporary exhibitions.

National Gallery of Victoria

The entire building is a beautiful piece of art that carefully preserves the huge collection of artworks of various genres and disciplines. It is among the oldest public galleries in the city and one of the major tourist attractions in Melbourne.

Visiting Time – From 10 am to 5 pm

Best Season to Visit – Fall and Spring (March to May and September to November)

Entry Ticket – Free for Everyone

The Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles are the most awe-inspiring routes that have a captivating coastal drive of cliffs, Australian beaches, and courtesy of the Southern Ocean. It is one of the most epic road trips to explore in Australia . 

Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles

The Great Ocean Roads consist of coasts, aesthetic villages, and golden bays. There you can enjoy the enchanting cliffs with the soothing sea breeze. Beautiful views and calming breeze make The Ocean Road and 12 Apostles one of the best places in Melbourne.

Visiting Time – 365 Days a year from dawn to dusk

Best Season to Visit – Spring and Summer (February to May and September to November)

Entry Ticket – Free 

St. Kilda Beach is one of the fun beaches to explore in Australia. Honestly, summer in Melbourne is absolutely incomplete without spending a day sitting by the seaside of St. Kilda Beach. The beach will surely give you quality time, and there you can find many enthralling activities like kite surfers, swimmers, joggers, etc. 

 St. Kilda Beach

Furthermore, St. Kilda Beach is the house of the famous Sunday Esplanade Market, Luna Park, Palais Theatre, and Sea Baths. The view and fun activities make it one of the finest tourist attractions in Melbourne.

Best Time to Visit – At night or before Sunrise

Entry Ticket – Free

The vibrant laneways are the cornerstone of the city. Melbourne’s Laneways represent the street art and lively lifestyle of the people of Melbourne. Melbourne has more than 40 laneways and each one has bustling boutiques and exclusive coffee shops. 

Melbourne’s Laneways

You can also find premium restaurants that serve up internationally inspired plates and cuisines in the illustrative laneways of Melbourne. With some of the most interesting shopping arcades, Melbourne’s Laneways can also give you some retail therapy. In addition, the laneways are on top of their beauty and look incredibly beautiful during festivals.

Best Season to Visit – Festive Season

Luna Park Melbourne is a renowned theme park and has been one of the major tourist attractions in Melbourne since 1912. It has a carnival theme and its plethora of rides will thrill you. Here you can explore one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the world, The Great Scenic Railway. The exciting rides and the nostalgic theme will remind you of your childhood and will give a lifelong remembering experience for your kids.

Luna Park Melbourne

  • Monday to Friday – Morning 9 am, to Evening 5 pm
  • Saturday and Sunday – Morning 11 am, to Evening 6 pm

Best Season to Visit –  

Entry Ticket:–

  • Up to 3 Years – $18 (Unlimited Rides)
  • 4 to 12 Years – $41.50 (Unlimited Rides)
  • 13+ Years – $51.50 

The Virtual Reality Escape Room will take you to the world of action and fiction where you will be solving mysteries, riddles, and puzzles. The exclusive games will jog your mind and commemorate your experience. 

Virtual Reality Escape Room

You will enter a world of vivid graphics and colors in a Virtual Reality Escape Room. Adventurous games and unique puzzles make the Virtual Reality Escape Room worth experiencing.  

Game Completion Time – 1 hour (but you can stretch it to 1.5 hours) 

Legoland Discovery Centre has a whopping 2 million Lego bricks and many play zones that will revive your inner child. In total, there are 13 family play zones with different Lego installations. 

Legoland Discovery Centre

At the Legoland Discovery Centre, you can make your own Lego building. There is a racing section with a racing track where you can race Lego cars. In a nutshell, Legoland Discovery Centre is all about Legos, fun, and photos.

Take Note: Adults who are 18 years or above that age are required to be accompanied by a child aged 17 or under to visit Legoland Discovery Centre. 

Visiting Time:–

  • Monday to Friday – 10:30 am to 3 pm
  • Saturday – 10 am to 6 pm
  • Sunday – 10 am to 5 pm

Best Time to Visit – Afternoon

  • Standard play session – £25 per person (estimate)
  • Legoland Discovery Centre and one more attraction – £35 per person (estimate)
  • Legoland Discovery Centre and two more attractions – £50 per person (estimate)
  • Annual pass – Starts from £30 per person (estimate)

If you are fond of space exploration, you will surely love the renowned science and technology museum. Scienceworks connects you deeply with science in a more fun way. It is an interactive learning gallery that has multiple exhibits and installations.

Scienceworks

The exhibits and installations in Scienceworks develop the curiosity of learning science in all age groups. It is a perfect place for science and robotics enthusiasts and if you are having a long trip to Melbourne, Scienceworks should definitely be on your wish list.

Visiting Time – From 10 am to 4:30 pm (Closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day)

  • For Adults – $15
  • Seniors – $10
  • For Children till 16 years – Free
  • Concession – Free

A perfect trip doesn’t exist, and you need to put in a lot of effort to make your trip worth remembering. So, here are some useful travel tips for an exquisite Melbourne trip.

1. Plan Ahead  

Melbourne is a bustling city, so planning ahead will always save you from the last minute-fuss. From December to February, the city observes huge traffic of visitors and if you are planning to visit Melbourne in its peak season planning ahead will surely be your savior. 

Book the event tickets beforehand and make a list of must-do activities in advance. Planning everything you want to do in advance will save you a lot of time and money.  

2. Be Mindful While Choosing Accommodation

If your trip to Melbourne is short, then you must choose your accommodation wisely. Before booking your stay, carefully think about the things you want to do in Melbourne, and then book your hotel accordingly. 

For instance, if you are visiting Melbourne for adventure, glamorous nightlife, food, and music festivals, investing in expensive accommodation would be a waste of money. The majority of your time will be spent in a cab or public transport, so, it’s better to get accommodation near the CBD in Melbourne.

3. Pack Meticulously  

Regardless of the season, you should pack a jacket, umbrella, light-weight raincoat, and trousers as the city experiences four seasons in one day. Locals in Melbourne usually wake up to a cloudy day with chilly air and sleep with thunderstorms and wild winds at night. 

In midday, the temperature generally hits 35 °C, which confuses visitors in Melbourne. You need to pack appropriately to face both wild winds and hot air. 

4. Never Forget to Explore the Food

Melbourne is a paradise for foodie people. The city offers diverse cuisines around the world, and you can eat any dish, from Afghani to Italian, in Melbourne. If you have a low budget, nothing to worry about, Melbourne cuisines have something for every budget. 

Additionally, even the authentic cuisine of Melbourne fits the budget of almost all tourists. Besides, it’s best to make reservations beforehand otherwise you would need to wait for a long time, especially during the peak season.

5. Get Well-Versed with Road Rules

In case you want to drive a car or other vehicle in Melbourne, firstly, you need to get along with the traffic rules of the city. Trams are popularly used as public transport. So, remember that you will be sharing the road with the tram and avoid overtaking them. 

Apart from this, there’s a thing called “Hook Turn” in CBD. Hook turn is used for turning your car to the other road. Suppose you want to move into the right lane, then instead of sitting in the right lane and waiting for your turn, you would sit in the left lane. 

You can move only when the light gets orange and if there’s no other vehicle in front of you. Hook turns are quite complicated, so you should be very careful while taking a hook turn.  

Planning carefully is very important for ensuring a joyous and hassle-free trip. If this is your first international trip then, as an additional tip, I will suggest you reach the Airport on time. Now, moving further, let’s discuss the best places to visit in Melbourne. 

If you are planning a long trip to Melbourne, the aforementioned tourist attractions in Melbourne are a must-visit. In case you are up for adventurous activities and willing to explore the best in Melbourne and Australia, you should try RV in Australia . The places listed above are very celebrated among tourists and will give you a worth remembering experience. 

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Places to visit near Melbourne 

Indulge in incredible food and wine, spot native wildlife and admire the ancient landscapes when you take a few days to explore some of the scenic locations surrounding Melbourne.

By Anna Lavdaras

Melburnians love their city almost as much as they love escaping it – at least for a day or two. Whether you're a history buff, foodie or nature-lover, the regions surrounding  Melbourne  are worth exploring. 

Bendigo Tram, Bendigo, Goldfields, VIC © Visit Victoria

Bendigo Tram, Bendigo, Goldfields, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Where:  a two-hour drive north of Melbourne

The grand buildings, Chinese heritage and living museums of Bendigo are a visible legacy of the 1850s gold rush. More recently, the town's art and culture scene has flourished with one of the best regional galleries on the country, the  Bendigo Art Gallery . Bendigo is also known for its shiraz, which you can taste at one of 60 cellar doors with  Bendigo Winery Tours . The food scene has a strong farm-to-table ethos. Try  Bendigo Wholefoods , or one of the fancier eateries like  Masons of Bendigo  or  The Woodhouse . Check into The Schaller Studio  for the night, inspired by the working studio of Australian artist Mark Schaller.

High Country

Falls Creek, VIC © Chris Hocking

Falls Creek, Victoria © Chris Hocking

Where:  about three hours north-east of Melbourne

Like its name suggests, this is alpine country, known for its snow-covered slopes come  winter  (June-August). If you're not fond of the cold, there are equally as many drawcards in the warmer months. Adventure lovers can tackle all varieties of mountain biking or snowmobiling at Mount Buller. Take a drive up to  Mount McKay  for some of the region's best mountain views, or cycle or horse ride across  Mount Stirling . Explore  Beechworth , one of the best-preserved gold rush-era towns. Stop for lunch at  The Provenance  where you can also sleep in the converted stables out back. Just a half-hour away lies  Rutherglen , famous for its fortified wines, and the award-winning eatery,  Terrace Restaurant . If beer is more your style, follow the  High Country Brewery Trail . End your adventure at  Circa 1936  in Corowa, a restored Art Deco bank with just three guestrooms, a day spa, and butler service.

Penguins, Phillip Island Nature Park, Phillip Island, VIC © Phillip Island Nature Park

Penguins, Phillip Island Nature Park, Phillip Island, Victoria © Phillip Island Nature Park

Where: a 1.5-hour drive south of Melbourne

Wildlife lovers can't leave Melbourne without making the drive south to  Phillip Island . Known for its daily  Penguin Parade , visitors get to watch resident penguins come ashore after a day of fishing out at sea. While you're waiting for sunset, head to the treetops for another kind of furry encounter at the  Koala Conservation Centre . Alternatively, jump on board with  Wildlife Coast Cruises  to see local seals, dolphins, whales and birdlife. If you'd rather stay on dry land, head for the cliff-top boardwalks at  The Nobbies  where you can view Seal Rocks, home to the country's largest Australian fur seal colony. Follow the  South Gippsland Drink Trail  and experience Phillip Island's excellent cool-climate wineries and fresh produce. Settle in for the night at  Clifftop , a cosy B&B with spectacular ocean views from most rooms.

Woman in the pool at Peninsula Hot Springs in the Mornington Peninsula © Peninsula Hot Springs

Peninsula Hot Springs, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria © Peninsula Hot Springs

Vineyard in Mornington Peninsula © Victorian Wine Industry Association

Did you know?

The Mornington Peninsula is famous for its pinot noir. These vines thrive in the region's cool maritime climate so they can ripen slowly.

Where:  a one-hour drive south of Melbourne

The relaxing region of  Mornington Peninsula  is home to great food, wine and thermal springs. Do a tasting at a  local winery , blend your own bubbly at Foxeys Hangout or discover some of Australia's premier craft breweries on the  Beer, Cider and Spirits Trail . When you need something to soak it all up, head to  Laura at Point Leo , an award-winning restaurant overlooking the vineyards. At Willow Creek Vineyard estate you'll find the stellar  Jackalope Hotel , with one of the most exciting restaurants in the area,  Doot Doot Doot . And don't forget to visit the local growers supplying them, like  Green Olive at Red Hill ,  Main Ridge Dairy  and  Red Hill Truffles . After a full day of eating and drinking, relax at  Peninsula Hot Springs , a natural thermal mineral spa house. If the weather is fine, enjoy the sandy shores of  Port Phillip Bay . The colourful bathing boxes are an attraction in their own right.

Ninety Mile Beach, Gippsland, VIC © Visit Victoria

Ninety Mile Beach, Gippsland, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Where:  about three hours south-east of Melbourne

The wilderness of  Gippsland  stretches from Melbourne to Victoria's border with New South Wales, covering 542km (337mi). It offers Victoria's largest coastal wilderness area,  Wilsons Promontory , which is threaded with  walking tracks  and wildlife. For more of the unique Gippsland landscape, head out to explore the  Gippsland Lakes , a network of lakes, marshes and lagoons covering more than 600sq km (230sq mi). Go on a  guided tour  to see the stalactites and stalagmites of Fairy Cave and the calcite-rimmed pools of Royal Cave or spot wildlife at the  Buchan Caves Reserve  where you can stay in  safari-style wilderness retreats . Follow the Gippsland  Food and Wine Trail  for the freshest seafood along the coast, wines at Dirty Three Wines and  Tambo Wine , batch beers and gins at  Loch Brewery & Distillery ,  Prom Country Cheese  and a local meal at the  Tinamba Hotel .

The Great Ocean Road

Surfers at a beach in Port Fairy © Belinda Van Zanen Media

Port Fairy, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Belinda Van Zanen Media

Driving along the Great Ocean Road © Tourism Victoria

Winter (June - August) is the off-season on the Great Ocean Road. During this time you'll find fewer crowds, raging waterfalls and the chance to spot migrating whales.

Where:  a 1.5-hour drive south-west of Melbourne

Forget the destination, the  Great Ocean Road  is all about the journey. If it's the highlights tour you want, head for the world-famous waves at Bells Beach or laze on the sand at Anglesea. Visit the charming fishing village of Port Fairy and get among the buzzing arts community in Lorne. Take a selfie with the 12 Apostles, and then head inland to see the thundering waterfalls as you walk along the tops of ancient, mossy trees at the  Otway Fly Treetop Walk . Thrill seekers can opt for the  Otway Fly Zipline Tour  which zips between "cloud stations" 30m (98ft) above the forest floor. Cool-climate wineries stretch the length of the Great Ocean Road, so be sure to stop off at cellar doors like  Basalt  in the Henty region, or  Bellbrae Estate  near Bells Beach. Book well in advance for the upmarket restaurant  Brae , and settle in for the night at  Drift House  in scenic Port Fairy.

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat, VIC © Tourism Australia

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat, Victoria © Tourism Australia

Where:  a 1.5-hour drive west of Melbourne

Stepping into  Sovereign Hill  feels like going back in time, way back to 1851. The town is an open-air museum that re-creates Ballarat during the first 10 years after the discovery of gold. Set on an original mining site, and complete with costumed characters, you can walk into the shops, hotels, theatre, school, factories, gold diggings and underground mines as if they were still functioning today. Return from your foray into the past with a visit to the  Ballarat Wildlife Park , then head to  Tuki Trout Farm . Hook a rainbow trout from the farm's pond, then have it cooked fresh in the on-site restaurant. Stay at the Tuki Retreat, or head into Ballarat. Indulge in a meal at  Underbar , an exclusive dining experience serving tasting dishes inspired by the seasons and surrounds for 16 diners at a time, so book ahead.

MacKenzie Falls, Grampians National Park, VIC © Roberto Seba

MacKenzie Falls, Grampians National Park, Victoria © Roberto Seba

Where: a three-hour drive west of Melbourne

One of Victoria's most popular hiking destinations, the  Grampians National Park  is an incredible mountain landscape dotted with quaint towns. Get a taste of local Aboriginal culture and see ancient rock art at the famous Bunjil's Shelter. Take a  guided tour  from Halls Gap for a richer understanding. The area is also known for quality wines with big names like  Seppelt , Montara and Best's . You can jump aboard a  Grampians winery tour , or hop on a  Grampians Helicopters picnic tour  and really take in the grand scale of the surrounds. After you've indulged, trek the rugged cliffs and cascading waterfalls, go fishing or canoeing and get up close to native wildlife. Then wind down your day with a meal at the  Royal Mail Hotel , regularly voted one of the best dining destinations in Australia.

More articles like this

Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, VIC © Greg Snell, Tourism Australia

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The Boutique Adventurer: Luxury Adventure Travel Blog focussed on Emerging Destinations for those over 35

18 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Melbourne

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

Melbourne, Australia, is known for its multicultural heritage and mesmerising street art. Not to mention that it’s said to be the coffee capital of the world. On top of all of this, it has also received the title of the most livable city worldwide.

There is so much to do when visiting this beautiful part of Australia . This includes watching the sunset in Melbourne from many spectacular spots. You can even visit the Flinders Street Station Victoria, one of many Australian landmarks you need to visit.

sunset from princess pier

  • 18 Places to Watch the Sunset in Melbourne

Table of Contents

1. Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

2. the boatbuilders yard, 3. st. kilda pier, 4. eureka skydeck 88, 5. flagstaff gardens, 6. transit rooftop bar, 7. albert park lake, 8. half moon bay, 9. swan street bridge, 10. the shrine, 11. olivigna restaurant, warrandyte, 12. rooftop bar, 13. lui bar melbourne, 14. atrium bar on 35 at the sofitel, 15. boat cruise on the yarra river, 16. ponyfish island/southbank, 17. vue de monde, 18. mount dandenong’s skyhigh, see the sunset in melbourne.

If you’re heading to this coastal city sometime soon, you’re going to want to put ‘ watching the sunset ’ on your list of things to do in Melbourne.

Here are 18 of the best spots to watch the sun go down in Melbourne.

And if you’re looking for accommodation, here are some of the best places to stay .

The Melbourne Star Observation Wheel is one of the highest lookout points in Australia to watch the sun go down.

Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

Take your choice of what kind of cabin you want to go up in. And once you’ve chosen, enjoy a slow night of 360 degree views of the sunset.

The Boatbuilders Yard is a cafe and bar on the waterfront of the Yarra River. With both indoor and outdoor venues, and up to 20 guests per party, this place has everything you need to enjoy a magnificent Melbourne sunset.

boatbuilder's yard melbourne

Decide between a waterfront river and cityscape view or the spacious beer garden with the city skyline. You can even pick the decks by the Yarra River. With so many options to choose from, try a different sunset experience at The Boatbuilders Yard each evening.

Whether you’re in the mood for a stroll, a cycle, or a quick fishing trip, St. Kilda Pier is the perfect spot. Here you can enjoy a relaxing outdoor activity while watching the sun go down.

st kilda pier sunset

They also offer ferry-rides if you want to be on the water while embracing the afternoon glow. Travel between Gem Pier in Williamstown or Station Pier in Port Melbourne. You might even spot some penguins and rakali (native water rats).

Take the fastest elevator (in the Southern Hemisphere at least) up to the 88th floor of the Eureka Skydeck for stunning sunset views. This luxury building offers you a 360 degree view to fully soak in the sunset from all angles.

eureka skydeck melbourne

And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can step into The Edge. This glass cube on the side of the building offers views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Watching the sun go down from this 88th floor will be unlike any other sunset setting you’ve seen before.

Flagstaff Gardens offers you a sunset experience unlike any other as you embrace the nature around you in the oldest park in Melbourne. Whether you prefer a picnic or barbeque, or even both, this is the perfect spot.

flagstaff gardens sunset in melbourne

And if you’re looking for a cute date idea, this garden offers you romantic park benches surrounded by rose gardens, to enjoy watching the sun setting through the trees. A simple yet beautiful way to see the sunset.

Transit Rooftop Bar is the perfect place for you to watch the sun set slowly over the Yarra River and the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

transit-rooftop-bar

With live music and the Taxi Kitchen to offer delicious food, you’ll be able to enjoy every moment. Whether you want to watch the sun go down from the dining room, the terrace, or the river room, you won’t be disappointed by the views.

This inner Melbourne suburb is home to the beautiful Albert Park Lake and also the location for the Australian Grand Prix. As if that wasn’t enough it also offers a gorgeous sunset. The best way to experience the sunset from Albert Park Lake is to take an early evening stroll around the lake and then head to The Point for a drink and/or dinner.

albert park melbourne

Half Moon Bay is located in the Melbourne suburb of Black Rock. This is a classic sunset from the beach or bay view. Sit on the rocks at Half Moon Bay and watch the sunset over Port Philip Bay.

half moon bay

This well known Melbourne bridge stretches over the Yarra River in the Melbourne inner city suburb of Richmond. If you’re attending any of Melbourne’s many sporting events Swan Street Bridge is very close to the MCG, the Rod Laver Arena, the Myer Music Bowl and Melbourne’s Botanic Gardens.

swan street bridge

The bridge is about a 15 minute walk from Flinder’s Street Station so you’ll easily be able to head into the centre of Melbourne for a post sunset dinner.

The Shrine is where both the ANZAC and Remembrance Day ceremonies are held as well as being home to an eternal flame. Located on the busy St Kilda Road, hop on a tram from Flinder’s Street Station and then sit and watch the sunset in Melbourne from this iconic Melbourne landmark.

The shrine melbourne

Unlike most of the other viewing spots in this article, Warrandyte is a bit of a ways from the heart of Melbourne but worth it. Warrandyte provides a bit of a country Australia feel in the north east of Melbourne. Olivigna is both a winery and a restaurant. They are Italian in theme and have 20 acres of grapes.

olivigna warrandyte

Rooftop Bar is in fact the name of one of Melbourne’s best rooftop bars. With backyard barbecue vibes and delicious food, this is the perfect spot for a sunset dinner.

rooftop-bar-melbourne

Be sure to purchase a ticket for the rooftop cinema to ensure you don’t get sent home before the sun goes down. The Rooftop Bar and movie make this an intimate and entertaining sunset experience.

The Lui Bar is located on the 55th floor of Melbourne’s iconic Rialto building in the heart of the city’s central business district. The bar features an extensive wine list (covering many of Australia’s best) as well as a snack menu designed by Vue de Monde, more about this fantastic restaurant later in the post. A great location for drinks and a sunset view in the heart of Melbourne.

Lui Bar melbourne

Level 35 of the Sofitel Hotel on Melbourne’s Collins Street is home to the Atrium Bar and some fantastic sunset views of Melbourne. The Atrium Bar has some fantastic cocktails as well as offering wine flights – red, white or sparkling – to accompany your sunset.

atrium bar on 35 sofitel

⇒ Heading to Sydney? Check out my posts on the best Barangaroo Restaurants , the perfect Sydney Itinerary , a day trip to Watsons Bay Sydney and the best weekend getaways from Sydney .

Melbourne’s Yarra River runs along the eastern side of the city’s Central Business District and is a great place to see Melbourne at sunset. Many of the cruises kick off from Melbourne’s southbank area (up next) so you’ll get a southbank sunset as well as potentially one from the docklands with some great views of the city skyline.

As you head north you’ll also cover Richmond and the Swan Street Bridge which is earlier in this post plus the iconic Nylex sign. This is the best option if you’re looking to get several Melbourne sunset viewpoints in one day.

This floating restaurant and bar sits underneath the pedestrian bridge on the Yarra adjacent to Melbourne’s southbank. You’ll get some stunning shots – or head to Southbank and visit one of the many bars and restaurants there and enjoy the view with the bridge in the foreground of the Melbourne skyline.

southbank melbourne

Planning a trip to Queensland? Check out my posts on the top 15 Brisbane Boutique Hotels and my Gold Coast Itinerary .

You may have liked the sound of the Lui Bar earlier in this post. Well Vue de Monde is the restaurant that sits on the 55th floor of the Rialto Building and is one of Melbourne’s top restaurants. This is definitely the place for a decadent, money is no object Melbourne sunset experience.

vue de monde melbourne

Vue de Monde specialises in local indigenous ingredients often applied in a European style. The tasting menu isn’t cheap but combine it with the view and Vue de Monde’s iconic wine list and you will have a night to remember.

With lavish seafood and a warm sunset glow, Mount Dandenong’s SkyHigh is perfect for a sunset session. With stunning views from the terrace and peaceful trail walks around the place, the sunset is just the cherry on top.

Views from Sky High

⇒ Planning a trip to Melbourne? Read about the Best Place to Stay in Melbourne , where to have a fantastic Melbourne Brunch , 18 brilliant places to watch the sunset in Melbourne , and 2 of Melbourne’s best side-trips: The Mornington Peninsula and Daylesford . And don’t forget Melbourne is very close to the wonderful Tasmania .

And if the bistro isn’t your vibe, enjoy your own little barbeque and picnic while the sun sets and the moonlit sky arrives. The perfect end to your week of wonderful sunsets.

Well, there you have it. The best spots to watch the sun go down in the coastal capital of Victoria, Australia. Now you can add it to your bucket-list, and you know exactly where to go for a spectacular sunset next time you’re in Melbourne.

And if you need a good brunch spot to grab a bite before your sunset session, we’ve got you covered.

melbourne sunset

I covered all of the costs associated with writing this article. However, this sunset in Melbourne post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

IMG 2300 scaled

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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best place to visit melbourne

These Are the 4 Best Places to Live in Florida

F lorida isn't just one of the most meme-able states in America. It's also one of the most livable places. And after the pandemic made working from home a possibility for more people, they began moving to Florida in droves.

Who wouldn't want to live with nonexistent winters, great food and gorgeous beaches? Of course, this has meant that popular spots like Miami and Tampa have seen some dramatic jumps in housing prices.

But don't worry. There are still some places where you can live your dreams of tropical days eating Cuban sandwiches without going broke. These are the four best places to live in Florida, and they rank among the places to live in the U.S.

How the Ranking Was Determined

We have based the livability ranking on the U.S. News and World Report's Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2023-2024 . The annual ranking takes into account numerous factors to come up with a list of 150 cities. According to the report, "a place had to have good value, be a desirable place to live, have a strong job market and a high quality of life" to make the cut.

After analyzing the report, we've taken the four Florida cities that made it into the top 30 of U.S. cities overall. We considered the report's ranking and scores for the cities and also added our own editorial input, based on the experience of our staff writer (me), who lives in the state.

Take it from a local and consider moving to these awesome places in Florida.

1. Sarasota

Population: 824,160 (metro population)

U.S. News ranking: 5 (out of 30)

Value: 6.1*

Quality of life: 7.0

Overall score: 6.8

*Value, quality of life, and overall score are from the U.S. News and World's Report rankings , based on their analysis of public data and user opinions.

Bottom Line: Sarasota

Sarasota comes in at number five in the overall list of livable cities. We aren't surprised to see it do so well, especially because we lived there for almost half a decade and are well-acquainted with its charms. 

The city is known to the outside world as a sleepy town where retired northerners come to spend the winter. And the stereotype is definitely true. Snowbirds flock here when the weather gets cold. What doesn't get advertised as much, however, is that Sarasota is also a college town, with New College of Florida, the Ringling College of Art and Design, and another four secondary education institutions. 

Both snowbirds and college students love cultural events, so Sarasota has a constant roster of plays, concerts, art shows, plays and performances happening. You will also be able to visit institutions like the Ringling Museum, which has an impressive art collection that spans from ancient times to the current century and includes works by Peter Paul Reubens and Marcel Duchamp.

In terms of food, you can expect both variety and quality. From Peruvian to Thai to American to Spanish, you'll find it all Downtown, on Main Street or Saint Armand's, along with boutique shops and bars. 

Of course, the real reason to move to Sarasota is the beach. Siesta Key constantly ranks amongst the most beautiful in the country. The flour-like sand is so soft that you'll have the urge to eat it and the water in the Gulf of Mexico is clear and warm. At sunset, groups of dolphins often come close to the shore and bioluminescence happens seasonally. 

As someone who lived there for a long time, Sarasota deserves to be in the top 10 best cities in the U.S.

Population: 372,797 (metro population)

U.S. News ranking: 6 (out of 30)

Quality of life: 7.1

Overall score: 6.6

Bottom Line: Naples

About two hours south of Sarasota, you'll find Naples, which ranks at number 6 on the overall list. 

Another town in the Gulf of Mexico, Naples is pricey —  unless you're bringing in a considerable amount of money home, you won't be able to buy a home right on the beach. But condos are attainable, and it is entirely possible to find a decent-ish value on homes that are a 10-15 minute drive to the beach. And we definitely prefer that to living in a shoebox in New York City.

We'll let you in on a Florida secret: Naples is where people from Miami go on vacation. The city doesn't have as much to do as Sarasota, but it is a perfect midway point between Tampa and Miami, which is what draws so many business people to it — either permanently or as a place to spend long workcations. It is also smaller and quieter, which is why people from the big cities come here for vacation. 

If you make the move to Naples, you can expect summers to be extremely busy with tourists and winters to be filled with snowbirds. But the latter stay for enough months to actually contribute to the community. In the offseasons, however, you can enjoy a taste of Florida like it used to be before everyone realized it's an awesome place to live.

3. Melbourne

Population: 601,573 (metro population) 

U.S. News ranking: 15 (out of 30)

Quality of life: 6.8

Bottom Line: Melbourne

Many people have never heard of Melbourne, which is surprising given its proximity to one of Florida's darlings, Orlando. 

One of the major appeals of Melbourne is that it's only an hour away from Mickey's backyard. And if you move to Florida, that means that you get the discounted resident prices for many of the theme parks like Islands of Adventure (where you'll find Harry Potter World) and Disneyland.

But Melbourne — which ranks No. 15 overall — has charms of its own outside of its connection to theme parks. The biggest one is, again, the beach. Located on Florida's Space Coast and Cape Canaveral, you will be able to see space shuttle launches or take your kids to the educational Kennedy Space Station.

Better yet, the city has managed to keep its market from skyrocketing. That doesn't mean it's necessarily cheap, but it's reasonable for real estate next to the beach. There is also proximity to nature, including several state parks and lakes. This combines to earn Melbourne a solid 7 in quality of life.

4. Jacksonville

Population: 1,581,680

U.S. News ranking: 16 (out of 30)

Bottom Line: Jacksonville

Coming in at No.16, Jacksonville is far from the messy stereotype movies would have you believe. OK, yes, there are a lot of drunk people who come to party at the beach, which sometimes makes this city seem like it's trying to imitate its cooler older cousin, Miami. 

But those are things residents don't usually deal with since they don't go to the tourist beaches anyways. And what movies don't typically show are the numerous trails and kayaking routes that residents enjoy quite frequently. Plus, it's right on the border with Georgia, so if you ever feel like leaving on a road trip, you won't have to drive eight hours before crossing a state line. 

The main downside to Jacksonville is that winters do get colder than in the rest of the state. Though we're saying that from a South Florida perspective — if you enjoy cooler temperatures, then this is a definite plus. 

Another downside is that the business and job markets aren't as developed as in other places in Florida. But that is rapidly changing as more companies look to relocate to the Sunshine State for its tax laws.

Right now, the real estate market is still reasonable and affordable. But if Jacksonville follows the path of other Florida cities, it won't stay that way for long. And that's just another reason to consider moving here sooner rather than later.

These Are the 4 Best Places to Live in Florida

The VICE Guide to the Best Lunch Spots in Melbourne

Arielle Richards

Where to get lunch in Melbourne CBD

dinner at nana thai

Biang Biang [Multiple Locations]

hand-pulled noodles with chilli oil at biang biang's elizabeth street location

thick hand pulled noodles are a gift from humanity, to humanity

Sakura Sushi Train

fresh squid. very slippery!

Pellegrini’s

Paramount food court.

curry udon and a tempura prawn with a side of kimhi - hail the ten dollar lunch!

Claypots Barbarossa

Jang go mama.

this naengmyeon was actually eated in sydney, but it's included as inspiration to order it for lunch at jang go mama.

The Borek Bakehouse

Butcher’s diner.

the best burger in melbourne eaten for lunch at butcher's diner, with a side of greek salad and contentedment

Rooftop Bar

City wine shop, mr ramen san, shandong mama, empress of china, where to get lunch in melbourne’s inner north, indian hungarian restaurant.

the fusion you never knew you needed

Danny’s Burgers

marios: the ultimate classic

Fatto a Mano

fatto a mano's pizzas are gluten free, vegan, delicious works of art.

QQQst Kitchen

have you seen a more elegant and enticing lunch? no.

Wazzup Falafel

mussbaha, fatteh and stuffed falafel. incredible.

ahmad busy making his stuffed falafel from scratch.

Tammy’s Borek

a huge takeaway lunch from tammy's borek, including kibbeh, borek, homemade turkish bread and okra stew

here it is: heaven.

the perfect bite of which i speak

tiropita and spanakopita from melissa's, the OG

do not sleep on the galaktoboureko

Where to get lunch in Southside Melbourne

Pacific seafood bbq house .

dream lunch: just a plate of pippis in XO.

Happy Tummy

fresh and affordable sushi lunch

Union House

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Australian GP: Red Bull's Sergio Perez given grid penalty for blocking Nico Hulkenberg in qualifying

Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri each gain a place after Red Bull's second car drops back three on the Melbourne grid; watch the Australian GP live on Sky Sports F1 at 4am on Sunday morning

Saturday 23 March 2024 10:26, UK

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best place to visit melbourne

Sergio Perez has dropped from third to sixth on Sunday's Australian GP grid after being penalised for blocking Haas' Nico Hulkenberg in qualifying.

McLaren's Lando Norris is promoted to third, Ferrari's Charles Leclerc takes over fourth, and the second McLaren of Oscar Piastri moves into fifth for his home Melbourne race ahead of the demoted Perez.

Perez's Red Bull team-mate Max Verstappen claimed pole position ahead of Ferrari's Carlos Sainz.

Perez met with stewards after qualifying about the incident with Hulkenberg in Q1 and they subsequently ruled that the world champions' pit wall had only warned their driver about the fast-oncoming Haas, which was on a hot lap whereas the Red Bull was on a slow one, "significantly too late".

  • Australian GP qualifying report: Max Verstappen beats Carlos Sainz, Lewis Hamilton 11th
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In their statement confirming the decision, stewards said: "Hulkenberg was on a fast lap when he approached turn 13. Perez, who was on an out lap was at the apex of the turn and Hulkenberg had to leave the racing line to drive around him.

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Australia GP highlights

"Hulkenberg was forced to lift the throttle early and brake early for that corner. In reviewing the audio from Perez's car, the Stewards observed that the team was focused on the car in front of Perez that had just slowed, and did not give Perez a warning that Hulkenberg was behind him until one second before Hulkenberg arrived, and significantly too late to avoid impeding Hulkenberg.

Checo will now be starting the race in P6 after receiving a three-place grid penalty. Let’s get ready for some overtakes 👀 https://t.co/g7sm6Unmj6 — Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) March 23, 2024

"While the Stewards appreciate the dynamic situation facing the team and driver during the Q1 session, which was described in the hearing, the Stewards find that Perez 'unnecessarily impeded' Hulkenberg and issue a three grid place drop, consistent with previous cases."

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Australian GP grid: Revised top 10

1. Max Verstappen, Red Bull 2. Carlos Sainz, Ferrari 3. Lando Norris, McLaren 4. Charles Leclerc, Ferrari 5. Oscar Piastri, McLaren 6. Sergio Perez, Red Bull 7. George Russell, Mercedes 8. Yuki Tsunoda, RB 9. Lance Stroll, Aston Martin 10. Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin

What does Perez's penalty mean for the race?

Sky Sports News reporter Craig Slater:

"It's quite significant in the context of the Grand Prix on Sunday.

"It means Verstappen is now a little bit isolated at the front. Sainz of Ferrari is second and Leclerc in the other Ferrari is now up to the second row, with McLaren's Lando Norris between them in third.

"Maybe the Ferraris can now gang up on Verstappen at the front."

Sergio Perez receives a 3-place grid penalty ahead of Australia GP.

Sky Sports F1's live Australian GP schedule

The third round of the 2024 F1 season takes place on Sunday, with lights out at 4am on Sky Sports F1

Sunday March 24

  • 12.30am: F2 Feature Race
  • 3am: Australian GP build-up: Grand Prix Sunday
  • 4am: THE AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX
  • 6am: Australian GP reaction: Chequered Flag
  • 7am: Ted's Notebook
  • 7.30am: Australian GP highlights
  • 8.30am: Australian GP build-up: Grand Prix Sunday replay
  • 9.30am: Australian GP race replay
  • 10am: Australian GP highlights (Sky Showcase)
  • 11.30am: Australian GP reaction: Chequered Flag replay

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COMMENTS

  1. 39 BEST Places to Visit in Melbourne (2024 Guide)

    CBD. 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. Places to visit: Admire the architecture of the iconic Flinders Street Station.

  2. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Melbourne

    The City Circle Tram is a free and convenient way to see the sights of central Melbourne and the Docklands while experiencing a ride on one of the city's much loved heritage trams.An audio commentary provides details of city landmarks and major attractions such as the City Museum, Parliament House, Docklands, Federation Square, Melbourne Aquarium and the Princess Theatre.The City Circle Tram ...

  3. 19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

    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."

  4. 11 Best Things to Do in Melbourne

    Rachael Hood. Ranking of the top 11 things to do in Melbourne. Travelers favorites include #1 Shrine of Remembrance, #2 Port Campbell National Park and more.

  5. 14 best things to do in Melbourne

    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 ...

  6. 27 Best Tourist Attractions in Melbourne That Don't Suck

    27. Rock out at a live gig. Melbourne is not only Australia's live music capital, it's also the best city in the world for live music with 553 live music venues in 2018 (that's one for every 9,500 ...

  7. Travel Guide to Melbourne, Victoria

    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 ...

  8. 13 Best Things to Do in Melbourne

    Our top recommendations for the best things to do in Melbourne, Australia, with pictures and travel tips. Find fun things to do, best places to visit, unusual things to do, and more for couples ...

  9. The 21 Best Things to Do in Melbourne

    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.

  10. Top 45 Places to Visit in Melbourne: The World's Most Livable City

    Melbourne is a rapidly growing city of nearly 5 million. The climate, good infrastructure, political stability, education, business conditions, and health care services have helped Melbourne rank as the world's most livable city for seven years in a row, according to an index in The Economist magazine. The city also attracts millions of visitors every year, from within Australia and from other ...

  11. 31 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Melbourne for 2024

    To learn more about how Chinese immigrants have influenced Melbourne, a visit to The Chinese Museum is also worthwhile. City Circle Tram Melbourne. Highly reccommended. Free. Jumping on a tram is an instinctive behaviour of the Melbournian. As a tourist, you'll need to join the locals, and the best way to practice is by catching the No 35.

  12. 50 EPIC Places to Visit in Melbourne

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

  13. 23 Spectacular Melbourne tourist attractions you can't miss

    If you are looking for an unforgettable Melbourne experience then a meal in the Eureka Skydeck restaurant would make your trip to Melbourne unforgettable. Melbourne Skydeck Experience. Southern Hemisphere's highest viewing deck! Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006. Opening hours: Daily 12 pm - 10 pm.

  14. 35 Places to Visit in Melbourne, Tourist Places & Attractions

    Tourist Places in Melbourne. Flinders Street Railway station, Queen Victoria Market, National Gallery of Victoria, Royal Botanical Gardens, Federation Square, Eureka Tower Melbourne, Melbourne Zoo, Puffing Billy Railway, St Kilda Beach, Luna Park, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne Museum and many more. Offering a perfect amalgamation of ...

  15. 25 Best Things To Do In Melbourne (Australia)

    9. Get sporty at the MCG. Source: commons.wikimedia. The Melbourne Cricket Ground bills. 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.

  16. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Melbourne (UPDATED 2024)

    The City Circle Tram is a free and convenient way to see the sights of central Melbourne and the Docklands while experiencing a ride on one of the city's much loved heritage trams.An audio commentary provides details of city landmarks and major attractions such as the City Museum, Parliament House, Docklands, Federation Square, Melbourne Aquarium and the Princess Theatre.The City Circle Tram ...

  17. The 30 Best Tourist Attractions in Melbourne You Have to Visit

    Delve into a majestic underwater world at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, home to diverse species of marine life housed in several themed zones.You can check out Penguin Passport, where you can see sub-antarctic penguins up close! There's also the awe-inspiring The Mermaid Garden, a 2.2 million litre Oceanarium with nurse sharks and stingrays swimming around astonishing mermaid statues.

  18. 15 Best Places to Visit in Melbourne

    Royal Botanic Gardens. Royal Botanic Gardens. Hugging the Yarra River, the cherished Royal Botanic Gardens have been one of the best places to visit in Melbourne since their opening in 1846. This delightful verdant space is the perfect urban refugee, with more than 8,000 plant species across the garden's 38 hectares.

  19. 25 Best Places to Visit in Melbourne

    Eureka Skydeck. Eureka Skydeck is a 285-meter-high viewing platform and one of the major tourist attractions in Melbourne. It is the highest observation point in the Southern Hemisphere, that's why it is listed among the best places in Melbourne. The iconic 360° view of the city from Eureka Skydeck will leave you mesmerized.

  20. Melbourne's west

    Festivals. 15 - 24 Mar 2024. A much-loved feature of the Festival, the Eat Drink Westside program is a unique collaboration between Melbourne's western region councils and Melbourne... Explore a little further on each visit to Melbourne's west, either returning to favourites in Footscray and Yarraville or uncovering hidden secrets.

  21. Places near Melbourne to visit

    Where: a 1.5-hour drive south-west of Melbourne. Forget the destination, the Great Ocean Road is all about the journey. If it's the highlights tour you want, head for the world-famous waves at Bells Beach or laze on the sand at Anglesea. Visit the charming fishing village of Port Fairy and get among the buzzing arts community in Lorne.

  22. 18 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Melbourne

    albert park. 8. Half Moon Bay. Half Moon Bay is located in the Melbourne suburb of Black Rock. This is a classic sunset from the beach or bay view. Sit on the rocks at Half Moon Bay and watch the sunset over Port Philip Bay. half moon bay. 9. Swan Street Bridge.

  23. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Melbourne (UPDATED 2024)

    Sweeping lawns, tranquil lakes and majestic trees are home to an amazing range of wildlife. 2. Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is Australia's largest, oldest and most popular sporting venue. The MCG has hosted plenty of international cricket, including the first-ever Test and the 1992 World Cup final, countless ...

  24. Travelling from airport to city centre late night

    Hi Will be advisable to travel from melbourne aiport to city center late at night at 1-2am... Melbourne. Melbourne Tourism Melbourne Hotels Melbourne Bed and Breakfast ... Melbourne Hotels and Places to Stay. The Langham, Melbourne. 7,830 Reviews . View Hotel. Melbourne, Victoria . Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne. 3,768 Reviews . View Hotel.

  25. These Are the 4 Best Places to Live in Florida

    We have based the livability ranking on the U.S. News and World Report's Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2023-2024.The annual ranking takes into account numerous factors to come up with a list ...

  26. The VICE Guide to the Best Lunch Spots in Melbourne

    $10 lunch special $10 lunch special $10 lunch special. I could go on. $10 LUNCH SPECIAL. The best lunch special in Melbourne CBD? An institution known for food so good the exacting next-day-sting ...

  27. Australian GP: Red Bull's Sergio Perez given grid penalty for blocking

    Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri each gain a place after Red Bulls second car drops back three on the Melbourne grid; watch the Australian GP live on Sky Sports F1 at 4am on Sunday ...