melbourne 3 day trips

How to Spend 3 Days in Melbourne (The Perfect 2024 Itinerary)

Last Updated: January 4, 2024

You’ll find that Melbourne is one of Australia’s most cosmopolitan cities! If you’re looking to plan a short trip, here’s a great 3 days in Melbourne itinerary!

Located on the Yarra River in the gorgeous southern state of Victoria, Melbourne is undoubtedly one of the best cities in Australia.

It wears many different hats, being the sports capital of the world, the arts and cultural capital of Australia and a mecca for foodies as well.

Certainly, Melbourne’s appeal lies in the fact that it has something to offer most travellers, no matter what their preference.

It’s a big, bustling place, surrounded by suburbs, each with its own distinct feel and flavour. So there is plenty of things to fill a 3 day Melbourne itinerary.

Plus, you’ll find you’re never too far from nature, even when you’re in the middle of Melbourne CBD (Central Business District).

And day trips from Melbourne can lead you to grand adventures to the famous 12 Apostles along the Great Ocean Road and other amazing places along the Yarra River. Enjoy our 3 days in Melbourne itinerary!

Table of Contents

Check out Flinders St Station and Federation Square

Have a poke around the laneways and markets, tour the mcg, visit the national gallery of victoria, check out the shrine of remembrance and the royal botanic gardens, grab dinner at chinatown, collingwood, take a street art tour, check out the abbotsford convent, visit the collingwood children’s farm, grab a craft beer, go shopping on brunswick street, have a meal at naked for satan, visit st kilda pier, stroll around luna park, wander down chapel street, have a drink by the beach, pose in front of the iconic beach boxes at brighton beach, madame brussels, fall from grace, a few day trip ideas, getting around melbourne for 3 days in melbourne, 3 days in melbourne itinerary.

If it is your first time visiting the city, you’ll find it is entirely possible to experience Melbourne in 3 days, although 5 days is ideal so you have more time for day trips.

Here’s an itinerary for 3 days in Melbourne that will help you see as much of the entire city as possible in a short time.

READ MORE – Check out our awesome guide to the best free things to do in Melbourne !

Day One – Exploring the CBD

You’ll spend Day 1 of your 3 day Melbourne itinerary hanging out in the Melbourne CBD, where many of the best-known sights and attractions are located.

Kick-off your time in Melbourne by getting yourself acquainted with Flinders Street Station.

It’s the central transport hub of the city and a good place to base yourself on your first day, if you get lost or need to meet someone in the city (locals tend to meet under the clocks that line the entrance).

The building itself is one of the oldest in the city and the prettiest, too. Most interesting is the presence of a decaying ballroom on the third floor that is only open to visitors on specific dates (such as Open House Melbourne and even then, not every year the event is held).

Federation Square is across the road from Flinders Street Station and houses some lively bars and eating areas, outdoor entertainment screens from which the sports are usually projected and ACMI – the Australian Centre for the Moving Image.

ACMI holds regularly exhibitions based in art, culture and film, so be sure to check out their website before arriving, to see if anything piques your interest!

Also near Federation Square is the Royal Exhibition Building and the Melbourne Museum, both located in Carlton Gardens. Both are classic city centre landmarks that have interesting showcases of art, history, and culture. If you have the time, check these out as well.

READ MORE: Here’s our brand new guide to help you travel to Australia !

Melbourne’s laneways are world famous, mostly due to the urban art and graffiti that is splattered across their surfaces.

The best-known laneways for art in the city centre are Hosier Lane (which is directly opposite Fed Square), Tattersalls Lane, Union Lane and AC/DC Lane, which is named after the Australian rock band, something that becomes evident when you see it for yourself. Hosier Lane is definitely worth not passing up.

Other Melbourne laneways that are great for food include Degraves Street, Centre Place or Hardware Lane.

It’s well worth wandering around and seeing what you unearth. I ducked into a random, quiet laneway once to find a photography exhibition had been plastered on its walls, a very pleasing moment indeed.

You never know what’s going to turn up when you visit Melbourne!

Near Hosier Lane is Queen Victoria Market, one of the best food markets in the city centre. Stop by Queen Victoria Market for some fresh donuts, coffees, or other snacks to fuel you up for sightseeing.

South Melbourne Market on Coventry Street is another great option for food and shopping.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our post on the best day trips from Melbourne !

If you’re sporting mad, you shouldn’t miss an opportunity to check out the Melbourne Cricket Ground, also known as “The MCG” or simply, “The G” (the shorter, the better in Australia).

If sport is a religion, then the MCG is Melbourne’s cathedral. It’s the largest sports stadium in Australia and the tenth-largest in the world.

As the name would suggest, cricket is played on the grounds, but in the wintertime, it becomes the home grounds of Aussie Rules, the main league of which is called the AFL.

It’s well worth catching a game if you visit Melbourne City during the footy season, which runs from late March ‘til October.

If not, you can still tour the grounds and learn a bit about Australia’s sporting history.

Another highlight of the city centre is the National Gallery of Victoria, one of the loveliest art galleries in the country.

It regularly features acclaimed international exhibitions, housing works by Escher, Van Gogh, Calver and Dior in recent times.

Entry to the permanent collection is free and most exhibitions are fairly reasonably priced.

It’s well worth spending a couple of hours wandering around this Melbourne museum. But make sure to get there early or visit on a weekday to avoid excessive crowds.

From the NGV, you can walk across St Kilda Road to have a look at the Shrine of Remembrance and the beautiful Botanic Gardens.

The Shrine pays homage to Australia’s fallen soldiers and is free to enter. You should climb to the top of this Melbourne landmark, where you’ll be rewarded of views of the city skyline.

The Botanic Gardens are a short walk away from there. Entry is free, but you will have to pay if you want to do any tours or go punting on the garden’s lake.

I thoroughly recommend the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, where you’ll find a traditional smoking ceremony, drink lemon myrtle tea and learn about the plants which are an integral part of Australia’s Indigenous culture.

You’ll find no better views of the city of Melbourne than the nearby Eureka Skydeck at Eureka Tower. Here there is an open air viewing platform with the highest views in the Southern Hemisphere!

All this walking and sightseeing will make you ravenous, so head back into the city center to stroll around Chinatown on Bourke Street.

Melbourne’s Chinatown dates back to the 1850s, where the gold rush era brought an influx of Chinese migrants, keen on making their fortunes in Australia.

Many stuck around and Chinatown around Bourke Street is now one of the busiest parts of the city, with plenty of places to eat.

Nearby, the Bourke Street Mall is a hub of shopping activity and definitely not to be missed on your Melbourne itinerary if you’re looking for a gift or two.

Day Two – Getting Out Into the ‘Burbs

On Day 2 of your 3 day Melbourne itinerary it’s time to leave the city centre and start exploring the suburbs around the city!

You’ll want to start your day with a hearty breakfast because this is an activity that could eat up several of your days in the city and you’re going to knock it out in one day.

But if you’re tight on time, you’ll be better served to stick to one or two day trips from Melbourne, close to the CBD.

In this instance, we’re going to visit Collingwood and Fitzroy, two of the better-known suburbs of Melbourne City.

Wherever you are in the city, be sure to treat yourself to a nice brunch in Melbourne . There are so many cool places to try, just keep your eyes peeled!

We’ll start with Collingwood, a suburb popular among young professionals. You’ll find it is colourful, hip and almost painfully trendy.

Collingwood and nearby Fitzroy are full to the brim with urban art.

You can wander around, taking your own self-tour or alternatively, take an organised tour of the area.

An organised tour can be helpful in many instances, as you’ll hear the backstories of much of the art and the artists behind them (the art can sometimes seem as though it needs explaining).

The Convent spreads over 16 acres and is Australia’s largest multi-arts precinct. It’s home to studios, galleries, a school, a radio station, parks, restaurants and cafes.

Most notable is Lentil As Anything, a vegetarian cafe and social enterprise where you pay what you believe the food is worth or whatever you can afford.

Nearby is the Collingwood Children’s Farm, which you don’t have to be a littlee to enjoy.

It’s one of Melbourne’s urban farms, with a heap of sheep, cows, horses and chickens onsite, amongst other animals.

You’ll find that Melbourne, Australia has an excellent craft beer scene, worth sampling.

In Collingwood, head to The Stomping Ground, an independent brewery in the area and try their wares.

If you’re not a fan of beer (guilty as charged, here), they have a good and tasty selection of ciders on hand, too.

Next on your 3 day Melbourne itinerary, head on to nearby Fitzroy for a lazy afternoon and evening spent browsing local stores and eating.

There’s some great shopping to be had in Fitzroy, particularly on Brunswick Street, the main street of the suburb.

Pretty much everything is on offer – boutique clothing and gift stores, stationary, homewares and plenty of thrift store (or op-shops as we call them in Australia).

This is not a great activity if you’re on a budget, unless you enjoy window shopping, in which case – go for your life!

When visiting Melbourne you’re going to want to visit Naked for Satan for fine dining with a view.

Make sure you’re hungry as you’ll find this tapas restaurant has a rooftop area, where you can sit either indoors or outside, to take your time watching the sun go down over the city.

I’d recommend booking a table in advance to avoid disappointment.

If you’re wondering where else to stay in Melbourne, there are quite a few other suburbs that are worth exploring as options.

Day Three – Take a Trip to the Seaside and Paint the Town Red

It’s your last day in Melbourne! On Day 3 you’ll be heading south, to check out the suburbs of St Kilda and nearby Brighton, before heading back into the city to sample its renowned nightlife.

St Kilda is a great place to visit on your 3 days in Melbourne itinerary and is easily accessible from the city via several trams (the 3, 16, 64 and 67 will all get you there).

There are a few sights worth seeing in this part of the city.

Walk along the jetty to check out the historic pier, where you can grab a coffee and watch locals fish or walk their dogs.

Luna Park opened in 1912 and is the oldest continuously running theme park in the country. Sydney has one too, but it has been closed down a couple of times – once due to a fire on the ghost train but mostly due to people who move nearby and then complain about the noise. Huh.

Its most famous ride is the Scenic Railway, a rollercoaster that runs around the park’s perimeter.

Don’t forget to snap a picture under the giant face that serves as the entrance to the park, which definitely won’t induce nightmares for you later on that night. Hrmm.

Chapel Street is one of the main hubs in St. Kilda where you can find shops, cafes, boutiques, galleries, and eateries. Check out the art, cuisine, and architecture here before continuing your exploration of the area!

Melbourne’s beaches are somewhat lacking, but it is nice to chill out in one of the bars or restaurants that line St Kilda Beach, with a tipple and a bowl of chips, if you feel so inclined.

You might have seen some pictures of brightly coloured beach boxes floating around the Internet and wondered where in Melbourne you can find them

They’re located in an affluent suburb east of the city, called Brighton.

You can get there by catching the Sandringham line train from Balaclava Station to Brighton Beach.

There are 82 Brighton Beach boxes lining the shore and they’re considered a status symbol. Ownership is open to locals only and they’re not cheap, costing upwards of $300,000 AUD.

They rarely come up for sale as well, with most being passed down through families.

You’ll need more days in your Melbourne itinerary if you want to spend some time around Melbourne, especially on a day trip along the Great Ocean Road.

Head Back to the City for a Night of Fun

From Brighton, you can catch the train back into the city (which should take around half an hour) and head into town.

Melbourne has a pulsating night scene, with many cool bars littered across this vibrant city. Some are themed, others are hidden, most are great fun to drink in.

If you want you can even join an awesome guided small bar tour of Melbourne to find some of the best and up-and-coming spots in the city.

Here are a few worth considering.

A themed bar in the city where you can choose to sit in ritzy, upmarket “West Berlin”, or grungier “East Berlin”.

Address: 2/16 Corrs Lane, Melbourne

A high end bar that sits on the 55th floor of the Rialto building with some grand views of the city. Perfect for watching Crown Casino’s hourly light show.

Address: 525 Collins Street, Melbourne

Another upmarket but swanky bar, where drinks are organised by era, from 1650 to today.

Address: 169 Exhibition Street, Melbourne

Feels a bit like you’re drinking and dining at a fancy garden party, plus there’s a nice rooftop area.

Address: 59 Bourke Street

Hidden bar, located in State of Grace – you have to navigate a sliding bookcase door to enter. The inside is delightfully kitschy and the staff some of the nicest in the city.

Address: 27 King Street, Melbourne

You can collapse into bed at any hour which suits you, because Melbourne has no lockout laws, UNLIKE SYDNEY.

So, there you have it – the best 3 day Melbourne itinerary. It can be done, although I’d thoroughly recommend giving yourself at least five days to explore this lovely Australian city and surrounds properly.

If you can muster up a 7 day Melbourne itinerary then you’ll want to consider a few of these ideas. Even with only 4 or 5 days, you’ll find your Melbourne itinerary is enhanced greatly with a day trip or two.

You definitely want to check out the Twelve Apostles along the famous Great Ocean Road . Make your way along the Great Ocean Road and stop briefly at Great Otway National Park Stop before arriving at the 12 Apostles. Then stop at the Loch Ard Gorge near Port Campbell on your way back to Melbourne.

You can also book a guided tour along the Great Ocean Road that picks you up and drops you off in the city. This saves you the hassle of renting a car yourself.

In the other direction, head out to Philip Island for the penguin parade, one of the best places to see penguins around the world. It’s hard not to want to get up close and personal with these cute creatures!

Another great day trip is the Yarra Valley, known for its high quality food and wine. Tour vineyards and ride in a hot air balloon through the Yarra Valley if you have time for a day trip.

If you’re arriving by plane to Tullamarine airport, you’ll want to catch the Skybus into the city, unless you’re hiring a car. Rideshare apps like Uber and Ola also service the airport.

There is no train from the airport to the city, which is crazy, but that’s just how things are at this point in time. The train can be used for traveling to other nearby destinations, however. Southern Cross Station is the main train hub in the city.

Melbourne’s transport system can be accessed by using a Myki card. They cost $6 AUD and can be bought from the airport, most news agencies and at train stations. You can’t top up a myki card on the buses or trams.

The city has an area known as the Free Tram Zone ( see a map of the area here ). You don’t have to touch your Myki card on or off when travelling in this part of the city.

It’s always best to pay attention to the announcements on the free tram as they will let you know when you’re entering and leaving the Free Tram Zone.

The City Circle Tram is also worth jumping on, if you’ve got the time. These older looking trams are designed for tourists and will give you a better understanding of where everything is located in the city. You’ll find the City Circle Tram is a great way to get around the city.

Download the PTV (Public Transport Victoria) app to keep across timetables and the inevitable delays.

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3 Days in Melbourne: A Local’s Perfect Melbourne Itinerary (2024)

Wondering how to spend 3 days in Melbourne? This itinerary covers the best things to do, see and eat, all planned neatly in a day-by-day guide.

Melbourne. What a city. There’s a reason why my home city has been crowned the world’s most livable city multiple years in a row.

We’ve got amazing museums, an array of international cuisine that would make any foodie’s eyes pop, laneways filled with super-cool street art, a coffee culture that beats the rest of the world.

If you’ve only got 3 days in Melbourne it’ll be hard to see and experience all of this. So, what’s the best way to make the most of your time?

Here, I’m sharing a few ideas for crafting a 3 day Melbourne itinerary that captures the best the city has to offer – sights, food, drinks and culture. Day-by-day, I’ve got recommendations for what to see, do and eat. This is a great itinerary for first-time visitors to Melbourne .

I’m a Melbourne local , so this itinerary draws on the countless hours I’ve spent pounding the pavements across this city.

PS. You can download this itinerary so you can easily print and plan your own trip!

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

What's in this article (Click to view)

At a glance: 3 days in Melbourne itinerary

Here’s what’s happening each day in Melbourne. I’ve selected the best areas to visit in Melbourne and I’ll highlight what to see and do.

Day 1 – CBD : Street art, strolling and architecture Day 2 – Queen Vic Market, Collingwood and Fitzroy : Hipster neighbourhoods and iconic markets Day 3 – The Royal Botanic Gardens, NGV International, St Kilda : Gardens, galleries, the beach – and penguins!

Melbourne itinerary mapped out

Everything listed in this Melbourne 3 days itinerary is also plotted out on the map below – and conveniently colour coded so you can see where you’ll be hanging out each day!

Of course, you can mix up the days depending on where you’re staying in Melbourne and to coincide with any activities that only operate on certain days of the week.

Also, while I have a guide to the best restaurants in Melbourne , I’ve also included some suggestions throughout this post so you’re not scrambling to figure out where to go when the hunger hits.

Day 1 – Check out the CBD

Melbourne’s CBD – that’s the central business district – is conveniently organised in a grid system, so it’s very easy to find your way around and very walkable. In the CBD, you’ll find many of the major Melbourne tourist attractions, along with tonnes of great places to eat and drink.

This is a fairly packed day, so put on some good walking shoes!

Federation Square

Federation Square (or Fed Square, in our typical Aussie way of shortening absolutely everything) is a great place to start your three days in Melbourne. This open-air venue has art galleries, museums, shops, cafés and bars.

Every weekend in Melbourne (in summer especially), it’s packed with people watching a free concert or show or enjoying a festival. (Speaking of free, don’t forget to check out my guide to the best free things to do in Melbourne .)

At Fed Square, visit ACMI, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image , where you can experience video and sound art and interactive spaces.

The Koorie Heritage Trust is the place to go to learn more about First Nations culture – the oldest continuous living culture in the world. The Trust has a huge Koorie art collection and you can buy art and handcrafted goods (and know that they’ve actually been made by Indigenous people). The Trust also runs regular walking tours, and I can recommend it as an opportunity to really delve into the culture.

Also at Fed Square is the Ian Potter Centre . This gallery features Australian and Aboriginal art.

You can also get a good look at Flinders Street Station from here. This station is the main hub for Melbourne’s public transport system , and an iconic and historic building itself.

Tips for visiting Fed Square

Fed Square is located at the corner of Swanston and Flinders Streets. It’s open 24 hours and always free to enter. Check the website for upcoming events, including regular meditation and fitness sessions, as well as screenings of sporting events like the Australian Open.
The Koorie Heritage Trust is open 7 days a week (except public holidays), from 10am to 5pm. Entry is free. Walking tours run weekdays at 1pm and cost $33 for an adult. The tours last for one hour.
ACMI is open daily and entry is free.
The Ian Potter Centre is open daily from 10am to 5pm and is free to enter.

Stroll the streets

Royal Arcade is one of the many beautiful arcades in Melbourne, Australia

After wandering through Fed Square, spend some time exploring the rectangle of the CBD that is bordered by Flinders, Swanston, Lonsdale and Elizabeth Streets. In this easily walkable area, there’s plenty to see.

At the top of Swanston Street, you’ll pass St Paul’s Cathedral . Entry is via Flinders Street, and there are information guides available so that you can do a self-guided tour. If you visit outside of the regular services, you’ll be able to explore more of the cathedral.

Keep walking until you hit Bourke Street. The Bourke Street Mall is a pedestrian-only block with plenty of shopping options, including Australia’s iconic department stores, Myer and David Jones. From here you can also check out the beautiful Royal Arcade and Block Arcade . These arcades were designed with the spoils of Melbourne’s huge wealth during the Gold Rush of the 1800s.

Check out street art

In the CBD, there’s also a labyrinth of laneways to discover. Originally used for horse and cart access, these alleyways are now bursting with cafés, bars and boutiques – as well as an outdoor gallery for some of Melbourne’s best street artists.

Melbourne’s street art scene is world famous, so make sure to pop into a few of the popular laneways to check out the work of local and international artists. Some of the best are Hosier Lane, ACDC Lane and Centre Place.

You can either explore these alleyways by yourself, or join a street art tour to get a bit more background on the art that you’re seeing. I think the tours run by Melbourne Street Tours are great. They’re led by actual street artists who can point out their own handiwork. The tours start at 1.30pm, however, so grab some lunch first.

(P.S. I have guides to the best Melbourne tours , walking tours of Melbourne and delicious Melbourne food tours if you want to explore more options for day tours around the city.)

Continue wandering down Swanston Street to Chinatown . While not as large as some other cities’ Chinatowns, here you’ll find the Museum of Chinese Australian History , along with plenty of food options.

Grab a table at Shanghai Village, Shanghai Dumpling House, HuTong or ShanDong Mama.

Tips for visiting Chinatown

Chinatown runs along Little Bourke Street, between Swanston and Spring Streets.
The Chinese Museum is located at 22 Cohen Place. Adult tickets cost $12.50. The museum’s open daily from 10am to 4pm (closed public holidays).

State Library

Satiated by dumplings, if you’re not heading back to Hosier Lane to take a street art tour , then make your way down Swanston Street to the State Library .

Even if you’re not that into books, you’ll be blown away the grandeur of one of Melbourne’s most beautiful buildings.

Inside, check out the La Trobe Reading Room – probably the most photographed room in the whole library – the newly reopened Queen’s Hall and Ned Kelly’s armour, which is on display in the Victoria Gallery. Funnily enough, the judge that sentenced Kelly to death by hanging was a key player in the founding of the library. I wonder how he’d feel today knowing that his armour now takes pride of place here!

There are also regular special exhibitions .

Tips for visiting the State Library Victoria

The library is at 328 Swanston Street. It’s open daily. Visit their website for details of special exhibits.
The library runs free tours on selected days of the week, which are a great way to learn more about the history of the library.
No food or drink is allowed in the library. If you’re carrying a big bag, there are self-service lockers at both entrances. There are public toilets at the library.

Beer at a rooftop bar

After all that walking and exploring, you’ve definitely deserved a beer! And one of the best things to do in Melbourne as the sun goes down is to enjoy that beer on a rooftop. Rooftop Bar is – unsurprisingly – a bar on the rooftop of Curtin House. Brave the creaking lift or take the stairs to the top.

For dinner tonight, there are several options nearby:

Simply wander downstairs from Rooftop Bar to either Cookie (Asian) or Mesa Verde (Mexican).
Or take the tram just a few blocks back down toward Fed Square for dinner at iconic Melbourne restaurants MoVida (Spanish) or Supernormal (Japanese). These two are some of my fave restaurants in the whole of the city.

I’ve got a whole lot more Melbourne CBD restaurant recommendations so you can plan your dinner.

Day 2 – Hit up the hipster hoods

Now that you’ve ticked off some of the top Melbourne CBD tourist attractions, spend day two visiting some of our coolest neighbourhoods.

The hip neighbourhoods of Fitzroy and Collingwood are on the city’s northern fringes, and are perfect for chilling out, grabbing a cold craft beer, browsing local boutiques and tasting great food.

Queen Vic Market

First up, though, let’s visit the Queen Victoria Market . Established in 1878, the market sits on 7 hectares and is one of the largest in the southern hemisphere. I love visiting markets in foreign cities and countries to get a glimpse of local life, and Melbourne’s Queen Vic Market is no different.

Spend some time wandering the shops along String Bean Alley (no prizes for guessing what was originally sold in this section!), grab a coffee and check out the locally made goods. Continue along the outdoor sheds and explore the undercover specialty shops and fruit and veg stands.

At the end of I Shed, join the queue to purchase some fresh, piping-hot jam doughnuts from the American Doughnut Kitchen van . This van has been operating here since the 1950s – and is still in the hands of the original family. Just be careful – wait for the doughnut to cool slightly before biting in, you don’t want to spend the rest of the day with a burnt tongue! (Every Aussie kid has experienced this at some stage!)

Head inside to the Dairy and Produce Hall to be wonderfully overwhelmed by the cheeses, deli meats, fresh breads, and herbs and spices for sale.

If it’s a Thursday, Friday or Saturday when you visit Melbourne, then consider joining the Ultimate Foodie Tour , a 2-hour tour that explores the market’s food and history. There are plenty of samples on the tour, so come with an empty stomach!

Tips for visiting the Queen Vic Market

The Queen Vic Market is at the corner of Elizabeth and Victoria Streets, and is within the free tram zone. Tram routes 19, 57, 58 and 59 stop out the front or nearby, or it’s a short walk from Melbourne Central or Flagstaff train stations.
The market is open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 6am to 3pm, Saturday 6am to 4pm and Sunday 9am to 4pm. Specialty shops open at 9am.
There are seasonal night markets on Wednesday evenings, take a look at the website to see what’s going on when you visit Melbourne.
The Queen Vic Market is plastic bag and straw free, so pack a reusable bag if you’re planning to make some purchases.
During your 3 days in Melbourne book a spot on the Ultimate Foodie Tour . It’s held Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 10am and takes 2 hours. The price is $99 for adults and $59 for children and includes tonnes of samples and a branded shopping bag. Book your tour online .

Collingwood and Fitzroy

Every Melbourne itinerary should include some street art spotting - and Fitzroy has some great murals to check out

Now, head over to Collingwood and Fitzroy . You can head over my full guide to the best things to do in Fitzroy , or read on for the highlights to these two neighbourhoods.

If you’re still hungry – even after the sampling extravaganza at the market – grab a burger inside an old train carriage on a rooftop (I told you Collingwood was super hipster) at Easey’s . Or the Vegie Bar serves up delicious vegetarian food that even carnivores will love.

Spend the afternoon exploring the area, strolling down Smith Street (voted the coolest street in the world !) and Brunswick Street. If it’s a Saturday or Sunday, the Rose Street Market will be taking up several blocks. More than 100 vendors sell handmade earrings, clothing, handbags and artworks.

If you feel like walking a bit (or grab an Uber), head over to the Abbotsford Convent . This former convent and orphanage is now an artsy community hub located on lush grounds. You can wander through the studios and galleries.

In the afternoon, stop for a pint at Stomping Ground Brewery or Fixation .

In the evening, there are plenty of options for dinner:

Budget: Grab a $5 pizza from Kewpie
Mid-range: A pub meal from the Marquis of Lorne (try their potato cakes, they’re so good!) or some vegan food from Smith and Daughters or Transformer
Fancy: Cutler & Co , known for great food that focuses on Australian ingredients

Getting to Collingwood/Fitzroy

After you leave the Queen Vic Market, walk about 7 minutes to the corner of Elizabeth and La Trobe Streets. From here you can take the number 12 tram to Smith Street. You’ll get off at the bottom of Smith Street and need to walk (don’t miss the Smith Street stop otherwise you’ll end up heading toward Richmond).

For less walking, from Queen Vic Market, take tram number 19 from Elizabeth Street (out the front of the market), go two stops and get off at the Bourke Street Mall. Then take the number 86 tram from Bourke Street/Elizabeth Street all the way to Smith Street.

Day 3 – Head to the beach

The final day of your Melbourne in 3 days is a super relaxed and gets you out of the CBD. We’re off to the beach!

To start the day, visit either the Royal Botanic Gardens or the National Gallery of Victoria . Both are great spaces to explore. So, you can make your decision based on whether you’re up for an indoor or outdoor kind of morning – and see what the weather’s doing.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Before you hit the beach, start at the Royal Botanic Gardens . Over 36 hectares of gardens make up this lovely relaxing spot in the middle of the noisy city.

You could easily spend a few hours wandering through the gardens yourself, but I highly recommend booking a spot on the Aboriginal Heritage Walk . The experience begins with a welcoming ceremony led by an Indigenous guide, followed by a walk through the gardens and a yarn over cups of lemon myrtle tea. This is one of the best ways to learn about First Nations history and traditions.

If you’d like to learn more about Aboriginal Australia culture and history, my guide to Indigenous Melbourne lists several more things to do.

Tips for visiting the Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens is located at Birdwood Avenue. It’s open daily from 7.30am to 5pm (7.30pm during daylight saving). Entry is free.
To get here, take a tram to stop 19 (Shrine of Remembrance/St Kilda Road). Tram routes 3/3a, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 and 72 go past the gardens. Otherwise, it’s a nice and easy walk from the CBD, directly down Swanston Street (which turns into St Kilda Road over the Yarra River).
The Aboriginal Heritage Walk can be booked online here . The tour is held Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday and costs $40. It starts at 11am and goes for 90 minutes.

National Gallery of Victoria

If you’d prefer to stay indoors – especially if it’s one of those days where Melbourne hasn’t quite made up her mind about what’s she’s doing with the weather! – head to the National Gallery of Victoria instead.

The NGV is free to enter, although special exhibitions have an entry fee. This iconic Melbourne museum is Australia’s oldest, largest and most visited gallery. It’s one of the best places to visit in Melbourne for art lovers.

You’ll probably need around 1-2 hours to wander through the museum’s free exhibits. Longer if you’re visiting a paid exhibition as well.

Tips for visiting NGV

The NGV is located at 180 St Kilda Road. The gallery is open daily from 10am to 5pm and is free to enter.
Tram routes 3/3a, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 and 72 stop out the front of the NGV.
There’s a secondary site, the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, at Federation Square. This gallery features only Australian art, including a large collection of Aboriginal art and artefacts.
There are regular free tours (check the website for details).

Jump on a tram to St Kilda . By the time you arrive in St Kilda, you’ll probably be starving, so grab lunch.

Mid-range: Fitzrovia is great for brunch or lunch.
Mid-range: Try Babu Ji , known for its delicious Indian food.

After lunch, stroll around St Kilda. If it’s a Sunday, the St Kilda Esplanade Market will be on, so you can spend some time wandering through the arts and crafts stalls.

Wander along the St Kilda Foreshore , sunbathe on St Kilda beach , watch the kitesurfers on the water, and walk out along the St Kilda Pier . This area is one of the most popular Melbourne attractions for locals and visitors alike, so it’ll be packed on a sunny day.

If you want to have some old-time fun, head to Luna Park . Brave the rickety rollercoaster, which is more than 100 years old! Luna Park is free to enter and there are some fun rides and games inside. It’s one of the best things to do in Melbourne with kids – but adults will have just as much fun.

As the sun goes down, head back to the St Kilda Pier to watch the cute Little Penguins waddle out of the water at dusk. There’s a viewing area above the breakwater at the end of the St Kilda Pier. No flash photography is allowed.

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

For dinner, St Kilda has plenty of options:

Mid-range: Lona Pintxos Bar for Spanish tapas.
Fancy: If you’ve got some cash to burn, try the multi-course tasting menu at Attica . It’s regularly voted one of the world’s best restaurants. I’ve eaten here and it’s incredible (but expensive)!

After dinner, if you’ve still got some energy, head to The Espy for another drink or to catch a gig. Or see if there’s a show on at the Palais Theatre . This iconic Melbourne venue has hosted huge international acts like The Rolling Stones, and regularly has great Aussie acts.

Getting to St Kilda

You’re heading out of the free tram zone when you go to St Kilda, so you will need to have a myki card. I’ve got information about those and how to purchase one at the end of this article.

From the CBD, take the #16 tram from Swanston Street, the #96 from Bourke Street or the #12 from Collins Street.

Got 5 days in Melbourne?

Got more than just 3 days in Melbourne? I’ve got a 5 days in Melbourne itinerary to help you plan!

Itching to add more to your Melbourne in three days itinerary? I’ve got more ideas in this guide to the top 30 things to do in Melbourne .

Day trips from Melbourne

Alternatively, if you’d like to get out of the city on one of the days during your 3-day Melbourne trip, swap one of the days above for a day trip from Melbourne . You can rent a car to do any of these day trips, or below I’ve linked some day tours you can book.

Yarra Valley – Just a short drive from Melbourne is one of Australia’s premier wine regions. This is one of the most popular places to visit near Melbourne. | This full-day tour includes visits to wineries, cheese producers and a gourmet lunch.
Healesville Sanctuary – This is where you can see Australia’s cute and cuddly animals. | This day tour combines a visit to the wildlife park and a ride on the Puffing Billy train, so it’d be a great trip if you’ve got kids.
The Great Ocean Road – An iconic Australian road trip. In my opinion, you need at least 2 days to do it properly, but you can see the highlights on a day trip. | This day tour runs the opposite way that most tourist buses do. You’ll see the 12 Apostles and maybe even some cute koalas.
Phillip Island – If you loved seeing the penguins at St Kilda, head to Phillip Island for even more cuteness. | On this day trip , you’ll get to see penguins and kangaroos and koalas.
Mornington Peninsula – This area just outside of Melbourne is known for its beaches, great short hikes and wineries. | This day trip includes a soak in the famous Peninsula Hot Springs.
Ballarat – One of the Victorian goldrush towns, Ballarat is filled with history.
Dandenong Ranges – Close to Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges are a lush forested area with hikes like the 1000 Steps trail and family-friendly activities like riding Puffing Billy .

If a day trip just wasn’t long enough, plan a few days away with my guide to the best Airbnbs in Victoria . They’re all within 1-4 hours’ drive of Melbourne.

Where to stay during your 3 days in Melbourne

I’ve got a whole guide on where to stay in Melbourne . But for this itinerary, the CBD is probably the best place to stay.

In the CBD, there are plenty of hotel options. Check out my full Melbourne CBD accommodation guide, or take a look through these recommended ones:

Brady Hotels Jones Lane – This hotel is a rare find. Affordable and stylish? Rooms have lots of natural light and openable windows. There’s a nice cafe downstairs. Check rates with Booking.com | Expedia

Ovolo Laneways – My pick of Melbourne hotels, this hotel has serious personality. And free lollies all day! Book a stay online with Booking.com | Expedia

Le Méridien – If you’re in Melbourne for a special occasion, stay at Le Méridien. This 5-star gem gets ticks from me for spacious rooms, friendly service, and comfortable, modern rooms. Check rates with Booking.com | Expedia

Check out more Melbourne hotels in the CBD | Read reviews of Melbourne CBD hotels

So, that’s everything you need to know to plan an awesome fun, food and culture-filled 3 days in Melbourne itinerary . Enjoy your visit!

Found this article useful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Is there anything else you’d add to this 3 days in Melbourne itinerary? Let others know your recommendations in the comments below!

Before you go… you might like these articles:

The ultimate Melbourne bucket list: 101 things to do
How to spend 5 days in Melbourne
The perfect weekend in Melbourne: 4 itinerary ideas

Best Melbourne resources

Check out my Melbourne travel guide for everything you need to know about planning a trip to Melbourne
Look for flights to Melbourne on Skyscanner .
Book accommodation on Booking.com or Expedia for your Melbourne trip. The Ovolo Laneways Hotel is a good choice in the CBD.
You won’t really need a car in Melbourne, but if you do want to get out of the city, then rent a car through DiscoverCars .
Pick up a copy of the Lonely Planet Pocket Melbourne to help plan your trip.

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Only got 3 days in Melbourne? Check out this local's guide to the perfect Melbourne itinerary, covering the city's highlights and local gems. | Melbourne | Australia | Visit Melbourne | 3 Days in Melbourne | Melbourne Itinerary | Things To Do in Melbourne | What To Do in Melbourne | Melbourne Travel Guide

About THE AUTHOR

I’m Rebecca, a Melbourne local excited to show you the best of Melbourne. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. After living abroad for 8 years, I’m back home in Melbourne, rediscovering this city that I love and have missed. My aim is to help you find the best things to do in Melbourne.

4 thoughts on “3 Days in Melbourne: A Local’s Perfect Melbourne Itinerary (2024)”

Hi, we really liked the guide and followed most of it through. Here are a few comments and recommendations: – We came between Christmas and New Year and Smith street in Collingwood was deserted and definitely not the coolest street on earth more like the saddest one. Lots of the shops. Where is the shuttle completely empty. – We were disappointed by the Koorie Heritage Trust and St Kilda beach but it was a cold windy day so it could be nicer on a sunny day. – We loved going to The Lume and o would add this to your 3 day guide – we had dinner in a great pizza place in Carlton: DOC pizza and mozzarella bar – we absolutely loved cafe Al Naturale in St Kilda. Beautiful food and great coffee, you have to try the tiramisu!

Hi Helene, thanks so much for your comments! These are all very helpful. The Koorie Heritage Trust is going through a renovation, but it’s a shame you were disappointed by it. And St Kilda is definitely MUCH better on a sunny day! The Lume is incredible, glad you got to experience that. I had excluded that from this itinerary because originally it was going to be a temporary exhibition, but you’re right – now that it’s permanent (at the moment), I will definitely add this in. And thanks for more eating recommendations – they will be very helpful to readers! I haven’t been to Au Naturale so will have to test that out. Happy new year to you!!

Hi Rebecca, just wondering. Are you also a professional tour guide?

Hi there, I’m not sorry – but I do have recommendations on the site for tour companies/guides! Let me know if you’re after someone specific.

The BEST 3 days Melbourne Itinerary (perfect for first timers)

This post probably contains affiliate links from which I earn a small commission if you buy from them, at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much for stopping by!

Looking to spend 3 days in Melbourne? It's an awesome place for street art, quirkiness, loads of food and beautiful architecture. Here's my 3 day Melbourne itinerary, perfect for your first time visiting. #3daysinmelbourne #melbourne #australia #visitvictoria #streetart

Are you planning a getaway to the quirky city of Melbourne for the first time? This is the perfect 3 day Melbourne itinerary, especially if you’re visiting for the first time.

There’s so much to do and see here that I can promise you, it won’t be your last visit. It’s famous for its street art, coffee culture and all-round relaxed alternative feel. With so much to fit into just 3 days in Melbourne, it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start. After visiting quite a few times now (because I simply can’t get enough of it) I think I’ve got the perfect itinerary for 3 days in Melbourne to help plan your time and really make the most of your trip.

My last trip to Melbourne was a completely spontaneous one. Tom and I had been in Sydney for Christmas and New Year and were heading back to the farm we had been working on via Melbourne. We landed in Melbourne and on the way to the city to catch our train to regional Victoria , we couldn’t resist stopping over. We booked a hotel and even though we’d been here before, we saw a lot of new things. Melbourne has really drawn me in and I think it will you for too!

So if this is your first time visiting Melbourne, here’s my tried and tested Melbourne itinerary for 3 days in this awesome city!

Take a look at Tom’s video below for a glimpse into what Melbourne has to offer!

Table of Contents

When is the best time of year to visit Melbourne?

When I describe Melbourne’s weather, I describe it as being similar to the UK’s, in that it very much has seasons. Melbourne is beautiful, sunny and hot in the summer, but can definitely get cold during the winter. I’ve visited in both summer and winter and to be honest, it’s a great city for any time of the year. There are plenty of things to do both outdoors and indoors so whether it’s to cosy-up or cool off, there are plenty of spots to choose from. No matter what time of year you visit, there are plenty of free and cheap things to do in Melbourne.

What to pack for Melbourne

Melbourne is a pretty cool but easy-going place to visit. With so much to see in the day and so many cool and quirky places to visit at night, you’re going to want to have a couple of outfits with you. I’m trying my best to travel light and for 3 days in Melbourne, it’s certainly do-able. If you’re going to be travelling around Australia, you should check out my ultimate Australia packing guide to make sure you have absolutely everything you need.

Visiting in the summer:

Lightweight breathable clothes : It gets pretty hot and sticky in the city. I would recommend a lightweight skirt, 2 x t-shirts a pair of shorts and a summer dress. I personally love h&m for stylish basics with some great prints and cuts.
Sunscreen : The sun is fierce in summer so be sure to wear a good sunscreen and reapply it regularly. I love Nivea sunscreens as they are non-greasy and waterproof.
Sunhat : If you can find one you like and that fits you (I never can) I would definitely bring it with you.
Sunglasses : Melbourne in the summer is mostly lovely and sunny so it’s important to protect your eye. Be sure to use sunglasses with high-level UV protection, not just ones with dark lenses as these might not be filtering out those harmful rays
Comfy shoes for walking : Melbourne is a very walkable city so over 3 days you’re probably going to cover quite a distance. Find some comfy shoes that you’ll be happy to walk in all day so you don’t have to put up with sore feet! I personally cope pretty well in some flat sandals but a nice pair of comfy trainers is ideal and can easily be paired with dresses and skirts.
Something for the evening : Melbourne has an awesome nightlife so I would recommend bringing 1 outfit for going out in. The summer evenings are still pretty hot so there’s no need to bring a jacket or anything bulky to wear.

Visiting in the winter:

Layers : Winter in Melbourne can be seriously chilly and rainy so it’s best to bring layers to wrap up. I would recommend a t-shirt or singlet under a warm jumper with a cosy coat over the top.
Boots : Because it does get cold and quite often rainy, I find boots to be better than trainers as they are warmer and more waterproof. A nice pair can also easily double up for the evening as well so you won’t need to bring any other pairs with you.
Umbrella : Having a compact umbrella that fits into your day bag can be a lifesaver so be sure to bring one with you.
Hat, scarf and gloves : As with the layers, you’re gonna want these to keep nice and toastie warm!

Where to stay for 3 days in Melbourne

For a whirlwind 3 days in Melbourne, it’s important to stay in the right location. I stayed in Hotel Atlantis on Spencer Street which is in an unbelievably convenient location super close to Southern Cross Station and also around the corner from a stop on the free tram line. Being so close to both transport areas was perfect as I didn’t waste time navigating my way across the city to find my hotel and I managed to travel around the city for very little cost.

Looking for street art, quirkiness, loads of food and beautiful architecture? Melbourne is the perfect city for you! Here's my 3 day Melbourne itinerary, perfect for your first time visiting.

Search here to book your perfect Melbourne Hotel:

Booking.com

Getting to Melbourne from the airport

If you’re flying into either of Melbourne’s 2 airports (Avalon or Tullamarine) the quickest and most convenient way to get to the CBD is by using the SkyBus airport shuttle. Tickets for the SkyBus can be bought in advance online here , or alternatively, you can buy them at the airport when you land. A one-way ticket cost $22 per adult and they regularly run from the airport to the city. If you are flying out of Melbourne, tickets can be bought online, at the airport while you’re there or from Southern Cross Train Station which is where you will catch the SkyBus from to return to the airport.

Transport in Melbourne

Melbourne is one of the easiest cities to navigate. It has an excellent free tram service that runs within Spring Street, Flinders Street and La Trobe Street. As well as this, Melbourne also has the beautiful old-fashioned number 35 City Circle Tram that travels the perimeter of the CBD and is also free to use. These 2 zones alone cover a lot of the city are great if you’re visiting on a budget.

For all other transport such as the buses, trains, and tram lines outside the free tram zone, you will need to buy a Myki Card. This is a reusable travel card that you simply just top up and touch on to transport as you go. You can get one from some of the Myki machines or from lots of retailers such as 7Eleven. Find more information about the Myki card here .

Melbourne is also a great city to walk around. It’s full of hidden laneways, beautiful architecture and it’s really easy to go from one place to the next. Be sure to wear some comfy shoes though as you’ll be walking a lot more than you realise!

Your Melbourne 3 day itinerary

Bourke street.

Grab some breakfast from a nearby cafe and then jump on the free tram line to Bourke Street . This is the main shopping area in Melbourne, but it is so much more than just the high street shops you expect to find. Walk along and you’ll find talented musicians and street artists putting on an awesome show so be sure to stop and take a listen. Music and art is a huge part of Melbourne culture so it’s a great way to delve into it. These guys and gals have all had to audition to get permits to perform on Bourke Street, so you might well be listening to the next big thing! The architecture all around here is stunning, too.

Just off the side of Bourke Street, keep your eyes open for Union Lane . This is one of Melbourne’s famous street art lanes and it is covered in designs, posters, stickers and colour. This lane is actually open to anyone to add their piece, so if you’re looking to leave your mark in Melbourne grab some paint and get creative. Take time to walk to the other end before making your way back onto Bourke Street and heading over to Chinatown. If you really love exploring the more hidden away parts of a city, then check out a Laneways Tour to really get your teeth stuck into it all!

I absolutely adore Melbourne’s Chinatown , and walking through one of its 5 gleaming gates makes you feel like you’ve been transported. Melbourne has a huge Chinese community and this is the heart of it. Chinatown holds a number of festivals throughout the year and is home to amazing restaurants to suit all budgets. tempting as it may be to stop here for some delicious eats, keep walking on to the Block Arcade to discover one of Melbourne’s iconic arcades.

The Block Arcade

Make your way down Russell Street and onto Collins Street to find your way to the Block Arcade . You will walk past Melbourne Town Hall along the way as well as plenty more shops. The Block Arcade is a glistening gem full of boutiques, high-end shops, luxurious cafes and restaurants, but above all, it’s definitely one of the most opulent buildings in the city. It was built in 1982 and was designed around a Galleria located in beautiful Milan.

Lunch at Centre Place

After a busy morning, it’s time to grab some delicious fresh and local food and experience the laneway dining that Melbourne offers. Centre Place is top of my list of places to eat in Melbourne and as it’s full of loads of small cafes, you’ll definitely find something you fancy. You will also find some street art here while you soak in the overall buzzing atmosphere of this unique place.

Hosier Lane

You’ve already visited Union Lane , home to the armature artists but now it’s time to check out the street art created by professionals. Hosier Lane is a lot wider but is just as vibrant and filled with colour. The guys who paint here need a permit and you will see awesome murals everywhere you look. It gets busy here but it’s worth joining the crowds to soak in the artwork.

Federation Square and the ACMI Museum

Once you’ve managed to tear yourself away from the street art in Union Lane, carry on to the end and you will reach Federation Square . More commonly known as Fed Square, this area has a lot going on. You’ll find restaurants and bars here and it hosts a number of big events throughout the year as well as street performers. It’s a space for the people and it’s always changing and being used for different things.

The ACMI Museum is also here and it’s a great place to spend some time in the afternoon. It’s the national museum of Film, TV, Digital Arts, Video Games and Culture and is a really fun and hands-on museum. It’s perfect for kids and big kids alike and ideal for Melbourne’s chillier winter days or hot summer days to escape the weather.

Flinders Street Station

From its bright golden yellow walls to its prominent green domed roof, Flinders Street Station stands out a lot. You will have probably seen it in photos but nothing beats seeing it for real. It’s right next to Federation Square so you won’t be able to miss it.

Eureka Tower

After freshening up for the evening (if you like, Melbourne’s nightlife is super chilled so anything goes) make your way over to Southbank . The Yarra river weaves through the city and being by the river is a must during your trip! Walk over one of the many bridges to Southbank and head over to the Eureka Skydeck to get a birds-eye view over the whole of Melbourne. The Eureka Tower is the skyscraper with a gold top and a red strip on and it’s viewing platform is stunning, especially during sunset and at night. Book your tickets in advance here to make sure you don’t miss out.

Dinner along Southbank

Southbank in Melbourne is full of restaurants to choose from so you’re bound to find something you like. From delicious Italian to the hearty German Hophaus , there’s a good selection of cuisines and with a view overlooking the Yarra and the city, it’s a beautiful spot for your first evening in Melbourne.

Evening Drinks

As you made your way over to Southbank earlier, you may have noticed a small bar tucked away under the pedestrian bridge. This bar is called Ponyfish Island and it’s just a brilliant use of the space. They serve up some enticing cocktails as well as an awesome selection of Aussie craft beers . During the summer you also have to check out the cocktails at Supafish ; a fluorescent floating bar in the shape of a fish, and the gin selection at Ahoy Arbory Afloa t too!

Queen Victoria Market

Today you will see the beautiful older side of the city. Jump back on the free tram line and head over to the famous Queen Victoria Market for breakfast and a wander. This huge market is open every day apart from Mondays and Wednesdays. You will find everything here from fresh fruit and vegetables to clothes, bags and souvenirs. There are also cafes and restaurants here to grab some breakfast or let your nose guide you to one of the bakery stalls for a real treat to start the day

Carlton Gardens

Whilst Melbourne may be incredibly hip in all its urban glory, it also has a number of beautifully sculpted gardens. The Carlton Gardens are just a short walk from the Queen Victoria Market and are a great place to relax and enjoy the greenery . In here you will also find the grand Royal Exhibition Building and the Melbourne Museum .

The old-fashioned City Circle Tram

Chances are you will have seen one of the old style red or green trams go past already and Victoria Street outside Carlton Gardens is the perfect place to jump on. Relax and let it take you round the loop to see a bit of everything across Melbourne.

Lunch at 8bit

Jump off the City Circle Tram at Flagstaff Gardens along La Trobe Street and navigate to Swanston St . where you will find 8bit . This is a hot dog and burger bar that I can’t get enough of and is always a quick eat that’s both delicious and filling. I would also recommend their peanut butter milkshake for the road as well!

State Library of Victoria

Not only is the outside of the library magnificent, but the inside is too. The library holds a number of exhibitions and galleries all through the year but a trip to the viewing gallery in the dome is unmissable. The gallery overlooks the beautiful La Trobe reading room . Think along the lines of Harry Potter and you’ll get an idea of what it looks like!

Melbourne Central

Opposite the State Library, you’ll find Melbourne Central . This is essentially a shopping mall but when you go in, be sure to look up and you’ll be both surprised and mesmerised!

Shrine of Remembrance

The Shrine of Remembrance is a National War Memorial dedicated to all those who have served Australia. It’s a truly moving place to visit and is surrounded by beautiful grounds. When you go inside you will walk through the crypt which commemorates the fighting units from WWI. Around the crypt you will find the permanent exhibitions to learn more about the wars and battles fought over the years. It’s an excellent museum and you’ll want to take some time to explore it. After this, go up to the Balcony for an amazing view of the city and watch the sunset.

Dinner in Chinatown

Chinatown comes alive at night with bright lights and waves of delicious smells flowing through the air. Melbourne has a huge Chinese and Asian population so it’s time to try some of the food. Make your way to Little Bourke Street , walk through one of the opulent gates and find a restaurant that takes your fancy. Many have excellent set menu deals so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a good feed without the price tag.

Evening drinks

Melbourne is famous for being super quirky and for having an awesome nightlife. It’s full of hidden bars down unsuspecting laneways and unmarked doors. With so many bars, a great way to spend an evening is by going on a bar crawl. Some of my favorites are the Croft Institute which is a bit of a Melbourne institution with a dark laboratory theme serving cocktails from syringes, Lily Blacks where the mixologists put on a show in the art deco styled bar and the Berlin Bar which has a great mix of old and new going on. Alternatively, if you love exploring the nightlife in a city, you can jump on a hidden bar tour, a hidden laneway bar tou r or even a craft beer evening tour and find some true gems!

After spending a couple of days in the heart of Melbourne, it’s time to leave the CBD and check out its suburbs. Catch a bus to Brunswick Street for Melbourne’s quirkiest suburb , Fitzroy , and spend the morning exploring it. Start at Marios for breakfast (another one of Melbourne’s institutions) to fuel you up. Afterwards, walk along Brunswick Street, Gertrude Street and Smith Street and check out the local designers, boutiques, vintage shops, op-shops, street art and some great markets. For more information about the gems you can find in Fitzroy, take a look at my guide here .

Fitzroy is Melbourne's oldest and definitely the quirkiest suburbs. You have to spend some time here when visiting this amazing city. Check out my itinerary to make sure you get a great feel of what it's all about.

Afternoon-Evening

Once you’ve shopped your heart out in Fitzroy, take a bus over to St Kilda beach for some sea air. Here you will find the crazy face of Luna Park which is home to the oldest operating wooden roller coaster in the world along with a number of other rides to go on. Walk along the Esplanade or the beach and grab a bite to eat from one of the cafes. Be sure to also take a walk along the pier there for a great view of the city skyline at the end.

As well as the beautiful beach and relaxing atmosphere at St Kilda, it also has some gorgeous wildlife , Every night, all year round, Little Penguins come ashore to go to their nests along St Kilda Pier. It happens every day after sunset and is amazing to watch. The pier can get busy so make sure you check what time sunset is during your visit and grab a spot in plenty of time. No photography is permitted as to not disturb the penguins and there are people there who are incredibly knowledgeable about them and are there to help keep the penguins safe.

Dinner at Souk

I actually found this awesome restaurant through Google Maps recommendations as being a ‘place where the locals eat’ and after going there, I can really see why. Souk specialises in middle eastern cuisine and is hands down one of the best restaurants I’ve been to in Australia. The restaurant oozes cool in a non-pretentious and fun way and the food will blow your mind. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to give recommendations, so pick some Mezze dishes and dive in.

Evening drinks with a view

What better way to finish your 3 days in Melbourne than with a view of the city from above. The CBD has a number of rooftop bars to choose from, each offering their own unique selection of drinks. Rooftop Bar (confusing I know but that’s it’s name) is a cosy little bar through an inconspicuous doorway serving up delicious cocktails, The Palmz rooftop bar in the Carlton Club will make you feel like you’re in a beautiful rainforest and Loop Roof is super chilled with a huge selection of drinks to choose from.

There you have it; a packed out itinerary to see the best of Melbourne in 3 days! If you’re planning to stay longer, there’s plenty more things you can do. Check out my guide to 33 awesome things to do in Melbourne that are all super budget-friendly so you can see more for less.

15 of the best travel apps for when you're on a budget

Are you planning a trip to Cairns and looking for the best value Great Barrier Reef Tour? Compass Cruises not only offers an amazing experience where you can snorkel and scuba dive on the reef, but it's also the cheapest reef tour from Cairns. Find out what it has to offer here! #australia #greatbarrierreef #reeftours #bucketlist #australiabucketlist #queensland #queenslandtourism

Is the cheapest Great Barrier Reef tour any good? My review of Compass Cruises

Forget the Sydney vs Melbourne debate, this is why you’ll love Brisbane!

Located just a short drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a must! Find out how to have a great 2 days exploring the island on a budget.

How to spend 2 days on Phillip Island

Planning a trip to Brisbane but want to see a bit of the surrounding area too? Here are 5 fantastic places that are easy to get to for a day trip out

5 fantastic day trips you can do from Brisbane

Hamizah Miasin

Hi Laura!Thank you for the wonderful tips.I just plan to go to Melbourne.

Don Schuldes

We really enjoyed this blog may we Please use it to introduce the city to our Japanese friends at our wedding reception?

Laura - Escapes Etc

Hi Don, of course! I hope they have a great time in Melbourne and all the best for your wedding day!

Hi Laura, just want to say thank you so much for this amazing itinerary! I’ll be traveling to Melbourne on business trip and this is perfect for an extended weekend. Hit all the must-sees without being overly packed 🙂

Ah I’m so glad you liked it! I hope you have the best time in Melbourne, it’s one of my favourite cities!

A 3 day Melbourne itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip – with insider tips

If you are planning a trip to Australia, then you absolutely have to include a Melbourne itinerary in there somewhere. Known as the cultural capital of the country, it’s a city with a roaring food and drink scene, graffiti clad alleyways, and a multicultural vibe. We spent 3 days in Melbourne getting to grips with the city, although I must confess, that as an Aussie, I spent many of my school holidays visiting the city, so going back for me, was very much like going home again.

Here is our guide to all things Melbourne. We cover everything you need to know including where to stay, what to eat, where to drink, and most importantly what to see on your 3 day Melbourne itinerary.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Melbourne Itinerary Factsheet

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Before we start our Melbourne itinerary here are some basic facts that you may want to know before you go.

Country : Australia

Language Spoken: English

Currency: Australian Dollar

Known For: Being multicultural, culture, coffee, an incredible food scene.

Melbourne is the capital of the southeastern Australian state of Victoria. It is very much known for its lively music and arts scene, which is why it is often referred to as the cultural capital of Australia. It is the second most populated city in Australia (after Sydney), and is constantly topping those ‘most liveable cities’ lists.

Wondering if Melbourne is worth visiting ? Here is a helpful guide.

Considering how big Australia is, chances are your 3 day Melbourne itinerary will be starting at the airport. There are a few airports in Melbourne, but the main airport is simply Melbourne Airport. This is where you will land on most domestic flights, and all international flights. The airport is around 23km away from the city centre, and there are a few ways to get from here into town.

The cheapest way is to get the SkyBus. This is an express bus that runs from Melbourne Airport to Southern Cross Station in the city centre. It normally takes a little over 20 minutes to get into town, and buses leave every 15 minutes.

This will probably set you back around $20 per adult, and tickets can be easily purchased on the day at the airport. Buses run 7 days a week, between the hours of 4am-1am.

If you are travelling in a group, or you have quite a bit of luggage with you, then getting a taxi or an Uber might be a better option. The taxi fare sits around $60-$70, and the plus side is you get taken straight to the door of your accommodation. Ubers are slightly cheaper, depending on the time of day, but you can get an Uber starting at $50.

Things to do as part of your 3 day Melbourne itinerary

There is so much to do in Melbourne in 3 days, and you will certainly find something for everyone. Here are our top things to do in Melbourne to help you plan your own itinerary.

If you love shopping the Melbourne city centre is the place to be. There are a number of large malls where you can spend your money, and Bourke Street is especially a shoppers favourite.

You also have a number of dining options, and some really cool bars to explore (but more on that later!) so you can give your legs a rest .

If you find yourself shopping in the Melbourne city centre like the above suggestion, then we highly recommend taking the time to visit the Block Arcade. It is a heritage shopping arcade, which opened in 1892, and there are some really quirky luxury boutiques, to stroll through. There is also a really good tea room here, with some of the most amazing cakes we have ever seen.

Another must to add to your 3 day Melbourne itinerary is to visit Flinders Street Station. Not only is it the busiest suburban railway station in Australia but it is also an architectural gem. It is by far one of Melbourne’s most recognisable landmarks with its copper green dome and distinctive yellow archways and facade.

Some interesting things to know about the station are, that there is supposed to be an abandoned ballroom on the 3rd floor. Sadly it isn’t open to the public so you will just have to imagine what it is like. The other thing that I thought was interesting is that the station is said to be haunted. Apparently the ghost is named George and many people are said to have seen him. So keep your eyes peeled when you visit.

You might be wondering why it is so famous, apart from it’s quirky design. Well, Flinders Street Station is the sight of the first railway station in Australia. Opening in 1854 it attracted large crowds who gathered to see the first public steam train.

These days it is an incredibly busy railway station, and from here you can hop on a train that will take you to the outer suburbs of Melbourne.

If you are looking to add a bit of seaside fun to your Melbourne itinerary then you should make your way out to St Kilda. This seaside neighbourhood is full of historic buildings, cafes, beaches, and a pretty rocking nightlife too.

Make sure you visit the Pier, especially around sunset as you might get to see the penguins returning home after a busy day out at sea fishing. It’s super cute, and a really amazing thing to see.

If you are looking to relax, head to one of the cafes serving food and cocktails along the beach. You can basically people watch whilst sipping a cool drink. And considering it is Australia always remember to wear sun cream, and a hat.

If you want to delve a little deeper into the area and the history there is a private tour you can do and it always includes penguin watching.

One of the more retro things to add to your 3 days in Melbourne, has to be visiting Luna Park. It’s essentially an amusement park that was built in 1912, and is still incredibly popular today. You will know you are in the right place when you come across the iconic clown like face at the entrance (apparently his name is Mr Moon).

The Park is small but does have quite a few rides to keep you entertained. The most famous though is the Roller Coaster, The Great Scenic Railway. It is a wooden coaster that takes you around the park, and it is the oldest continually operating wooden roller coaster in the world. It is operated by a standing brakeman who stands aboard the carriages as it operates. It also has some pretty incredible views of St Kilda.

You do need to pay to enter the park , and it is around $15 for entry and access to one ride. It was fun going inside, but we aren’t really into rides so it probably wasn’t worth it for us, but still it was cool to see inside the park.

The Queen Victoria Market is the largest open air market in the southern hemisphere. It covers a grand total of 7 hectares, and was built in the 19th Century. It is now a historic landmark and it tends to attract a lot of tourists. But it is also popular with locals, who come to buy fresh produce and other bits. There are tons of specialty stores and a food hall so you are bound to find something that you like.

Street art in Melbourne is a pretty big deal, so do make sure you check it out, particularly in the CBD. Hosier Lane, is one of the more famous places to go to admire the street art. If you want to explore a bit more then you can also book guided tours in advance .

One of the very cool things that you can add to your 3 day Melbourne itinerary, particularly if you are based in the CBD is to explore the laneways. They are essentially little streets, that originated in the Victorian era, to be used by those travelling on horse and cart. Explore them today and you will find hidden bars and coffee shops, street art, and much more.

And if you want to know more about the history of the laneways you can book yourself onto a guided tour .

Most cities in Australia have botanical gardens, but there is something a little extra special about the gardens in Melbourne. You can go for a bit of a wander around before settling in at one of the cafes for a well earned treat afterwards.

The gardens cover a whopping 38 hectares, and include a lot of tranquil walks by the lake, and through the fern gully to name but a few.

Take your time exploring the gardens. This is really a lovely bit of Melbourne, and offers a break from the hustle and bustle of the CBD.

If you enjoy seeing cities from a height, then we recommend a visit to the Eureka Skydeck as part of your 3 days in Melbourne. Located on the 88th floor of Eureka Tower, the Skydeck offers you a panoramic view of Melbourne.

The Skydeck is located in the Southbank area of Melbourne, and is the Southern Hemisphere’s highest observation deck. It is well worth doing for the photo opportunities alone.

It is recommended that you book your tickets in advance as lines can get very long.

It would be a mistake to visit Melbourne and only explore the city centre, when there are so many cool neighbourhoods just a stones throw away. We’ve already mentioned St Kilda, which is perfect if you are into live music, or just want to chill at the beach.

Another hip and happening area is Fitzroy, with plenty of cool bars and restaurants to explore. Carlton is also a great place to explore if you love coffee and Italian food.

But one of our favourites has to be South Yarra. Chapel Street in particular has a host of ultra cool boutiques, coffee shops, and bars, just waiting to be explored.

Sport is a pretty big deal in Melbourne, and the MCG or the Melbourne Cricket Ground is one of the most important sporting stadiums in the city. For starters it is one of the largest stadiums in the world with a capacity of 100,000. It’s not just cricket that is played here, with it also hosting Rugby matches among other things. Sports fans should definitely do a tour, and there are some options to book in advance below.

A great way to see Melbourne is to do a river cruise. There are several cruise options you can choose from but most of these consist of gliding down the Yarra and seeing the sights.

The Yarra River Cruises tend to leave from around the back of Federation Square. We do recommend booking your tickets in advance, and there are a couple of different tour options for you to peruse below.

Melbourne is synonymous with really good coffee. For this reason you have to add a visit to a coffee shop or two to your Melbourne itinerary. The coffee shops in Melbourne tend to be your quirkier, indie style cafes, so don’t expect a Starbucks (I mean there are a few but it’s not actually a big thing in Australia). And if there is a particular coffee that you want us to recommend we say go for the Flat White, it is very much an Aussie staple.

Sample 3 day Melbourne itinerary

Here is a sample 3 day Melbourne itinerary to help you plan your own trip to this incredible city. There is a lot to do in Melbourne, but in our honest opinion a lot of the city is about exploring, eating, and drinking.

Start the day with some coffee and explore some of the cities laneways and street art . Head to the Queen Victoria Market for lunch before making your way to Flinders Street Station , and Federation Square . Do a cruise in the late afternoon, and spend the evening enjoying the city bars and restaurants.

In the morning after coffee and brunch, make your way to Southbank . Head to the Eureka Tower for 12pm to admire the views from the top. Then hop on a tram and make your way to the Royal Botanical Gardens for an afternoon of exploring.

In the late afternoon/ evening head to South Yarra and hang out at Chapel Street . This is a great place to go for dinner and drinks too.

On the last of your 3 days in Melbourne, we recommend heading out to St Kilda for the day. Start with Luna Park , and then spend the afternoon at the beach. Make sure you head to the pier in the late afternoon to try and spot the penguins.

Romantic things to add to your 3 day Melbourne itinerary

If you are looking for some of the more romantic things to add to your 3 days in Melbourne here are some suggestions.

What could be more romantic than flying around in a hot air balloon at sunrise . The flights last about an hour, and you get some pretty amazing views of the city.

Melbourne has some pretty amazing rooftop bars, so if you want to add a little romance to your Melbourne itinerary, then grab some cocktails and soak up the views.

Another romantic option for your 3 days in Melbourne is to do a sunset or twilight cruise along the Yarra river. You get to experience the city at one of the most beautiful times of the day, all from the deck of a boat.

If you want the romance of sailing down the Yarra, without the crowds then we recommend hiring a picnic boat . You don’t need any sailing experience and it’s a bit more environmentally friendly then the other cruises as the boats are all electric.

Where to stay during your 3 days in Melbourne

If you have 3 days in Melbourne, you might be wondering where to stay. We break down the best areas to help you plan your own stay in the city.

If you are staying in Melbourne for the first time, or like us you are only in Melbourne for 3 days, then staying in the CBD is probably your best bet. Not only are you close to some of the main attractions but there is a range of accommodation here to suit all budgets. Public transport links are plentiful, as are your options for food and drink.

If you are a beach lover, then staying in St Kilda might be the best option for you. There are still tons of food and drink options here, with that seaside feel. You are also close to Luna Park which is a plus, particularly if you have kids. The only downside is that it is a bit out from the City Centre, but there is a frequent tram to get you there.

If you want to be a little closer to the CBD, but also want an alternative effortlessly cool edge then stay in Fitzroy. It is a very trendy area, and will give you more of an authentic Melbourne feel than the likes of the CBD.

Because our time in Melbourne was so short, we decided to stay in the CBD. And this worked out perfectly for us. We were close to public transport which meant that we got to explore a lot of the city, but also the surrounding areas. We were also spoilt for choice when it came to food and drink.

We chose to stay at the Causeway 353 Hotel , located on Little Collins Street. It is a 4 star hotel with spacious rooms, free wifi, and a 24 hour reception desk. Basically it ticked all our boxes. It was also located smack bang in the middle of the city centre, so a perfect spot if you want to be in the middle of the hustle and bustle.

Melbourne is a treasure trove of amazing restaurants and bars. You will find something to cover all tastes no matter where you are in the city. That being said we could spend ages listing all the best bars and restaurants in Melbourne, but you will probably need more than 3 days to try them all. Instead here are some of our highlights that we think are worth adding to your own 3 day Melbourne itinerary. Let’s start with bars.

The best bars to add to your 3 day Melbourne itinerary

This bar is named after the year that cocktails first ‘appeared’. It’s very retro with a very non pretentious vibe. It’s one of those low lighting, low music, just chill out and drink kind of places. The bar staff are also really nice, and they make some fantastic drinks.

Behind a beautiful Melbourne city church, you will find the unassuming Caretaker’s Cottage. They do a mean cocktail here, and the bar itself has won quite a few awards too.

This bar has very much a beach/club thing going on. It is located on the Yarra River, and is the perfect place to go on a warm Melbourne day. They do great summer cocktails, tapas style food, and there is even a pool, if you fancy a dip.

Enjoying one of the many rooftop bars, is a must to add to your 3 day Melbourne itinerary. There are so many to choose from, but one of our favourites has to be the Rooftop at the QT hotel. It’s a bright and airy bar, with a gorgeous rooftop terrace and some of the best views of Melbourne city too.

If you want a rooftop bar that is a little more laid back, Campari House is a great choice. There is even an Italian restaurant on the ground floor so you won’t have far to go for some delicious eats.

If it’s whiskey and cheese board you are after then Boilermaker House is a must. The bar has speakeasy kind of vibes, with a very chilled out atmosphere.

I’m adding Chuckle Park to this list because we stumbled upon it late one night, by complete accident. It’s a laneway bar that serves cocktails out of a caravan. There is such a chilled vibe here, and the atmospheric fairy lights and great music make you want to stay all night.

For a more rock and roll vibe, our recommendation in the Melbourne CBD is Heartbreaker. They do a lot of international beers, and have a great choice of whiskey too. But our favourite thing is the pizza slices they do, which obviously helps with the copious amounts of whiskey and beer.

If you want someone to take the stress of deciding on the best bars to go to in Melbourne, then you can do this hidden bars pub crawl .

The best restaurants to add to your 3 day Melbourne itinerary

This list of places to eat in Melbourne is by no means exhaustive. These are just some of our highlights.

For a decadent experience of oysters and wine head to Pearl Chablis and Oyster Bar. Admittedly Dave is not an Oyster fan and so we opted for a cheese board that honestly was incredible.

Borsht, Vodka, and Tears is somewhat a Melbourne institution, and the Eastern European in me obviously had to visit. It is a little further out of the city centre on Chapel Street in Windsor. It’s worth a visit though, and there are lots of quirky bars around it so you can make an evening of it. They serve Eastern European cuisine, and cocktails. Their vodka menu is also pretty impressive with mostly Polish serves, but I did find a couple of Ukrainian vodkas which my grandparents will surely be proud of me for ordering!

For something a little fancier you can go to Gimlet. They serve a variety of food like oysters, and seafood, and they even have their own caviar service. Gimlet is also a must for cocktails and world class wine.

This cafe is perfect if you are looking for a brunch spot in Melbourne’s CBD. It is located down a laneway, and in an old factory adding that edgy cool Melbourne vibe.

This is the creme de la creme of brunch spots in Melbourne. At least in my opinion anyway. It’s busy but for good reason. The food is incredible. The ricotta pancakes are unbelievable, as is the crab eggs benedict. It’s one of those places that actually does live up to the hype so definitely give it a go.

And if you feel like it’s all just too overwhelming, and you don’t know where to begin with the food portion of your Melbourne itinerary, then here are some suggested tours.

Good news for those of you that only have 3 days in Melbourne, it is a relatively easy city to get around. We found that we either walked places or caught the tram. Even better news is that trams are completely free in the city centre zone. You will be notified when the tram is no longer in the free zone and encouraged to tap on at this point.

If you find yourself travelling out of the city centre, then you will need to purchase a Myki Card. It’s essentially a pass which is the size of a credit card that you can top up throughout your time in Melbourne. You can purchase and top the cards up at selected stores across Melbourne, but the easiest is to find a 7/11 or a newsagent. The card costs $6 and then any additional credit can be added on top. For our 3 days in Melbourne we topped up with $20 and this saw us through to the end of the trip. But you may spend more depending on where you are going.

Melbourne (and Australia in general) can be quite expensive. I would consider a budget of $200 per person per day as a minimum not including accommodation. A big part of the culture and lifestyle in Melbourne revolves around good food and good drink, so if you plan to go to fancy places make sure you budget this in.

Accommodation costs can vary, and will largely depend on the time of year you book, and how far in advance you do this. We stayed at a 4 star hotel, which costs us around $170 per night. This is quite cheap compared to prices in Europe, but we did book well in advance.

Also in case you were wondering you can pay for things on card at most places in Melbourne, so cash isn’t really necessary. Although we had a bit with us just in case.

Personally I don’t think that there is ever a bad time to plan your Melbourne itinerary. There is so much to do, and you will find something whatever the weather. We visited in January, which is smack bang in the middle of summer. The weather was actually ok, and ranged from 20 – 35 degrees during our 3 days in Melbourne. Summer can get busy though as this is peak school holiday season. It can also get pretty hot – 3 days after we left it got to 38 degrees Celsius, so if you aren’t used to hot climates maybe avoid this time of year.

For moderate weather visit in March-May or September – November. This is shoulder season where there are fewer queues for attractions and less demand for hotels.

Low season in Melbourne is between June- August. The weather is quite cool, averaging between 8- 15 degrees Celsius. It can also be windy and rainy at this time, so maybe not ideal if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.

You might be wondering if 3 days in Melbourne is enough. The answer to that, obviously depends on what you want to see and do, but in our opinion 3 days is a reasonable amount of time to spend in Melbourne. You should be able to get to grips with the city centre, explore some of the outer suburbs, and even fit in a day trip if you wanted to.

Melbourne is very much about experiencing the culture, and the food and drink scene, so if you want to delve a little deeper into that you might need longer in the city. We found 3 days in Melbourne just enough time to see the main sights, and eat a lot of really good food!

Melbourne is a little different to other Australian cities in that the weather can be very unpredictable. We visited in January, which is peak summer and the temperatures ranged from 20 degrees Celsius to 35. So this is something to keep in mind when planning your Melbourne packing list. A trip to Melbourne is all about the layers. Here are some staples that we think you might need for your trip.

Jacket and warm clothes for the winter months
Suncream, hat, sunglasses for the summer months
A light cardigan (even for the summer months)
Comfortable walking shoes
Umbrella (the weather can turn quite quickly in Melbourne)

Here are some of our top tips for planning your 3 day Melbourne itinerary

Book your accommodation well in advance
Melbourne is known as the sporting capital of Australia, if you aren’t there to watch sport though check for any big matches/ games in advance as accommodation gets expensive due to the high demand
Don’t just stick to the city centre, the real charm of Melbourne lies in the different neighbourhoods

Longer than 3 days in Melbourne

If you have longer than 3 days in Melbourne, and you are considering some day trips, or further travel across Australia here is some more inspiration for you.

Wine lovers should definitely take advantage of Melbournes close proximity to the Yarra Valley. On this tour you can visit some of the regions top wineries and try some really good local food.

Another excellent day trip to add to your 3 day Melbourne itinerary is a visit to the Dandenong Ranges. You should also try and ride the Puffing Billy, a famous steam train that takes you through the ranges.

Driving along the Great Ocean Road is one of those things you should add to your Australia bucket list. You get to experience some of the beautiful and vast landscape Australia has to offer, all on a day trip from Melbourne.

This is an excellent 3 day Great Ocean Road itinerary to help you plan.

If you enjoyed spending time in Melbourne, then you might be wondering if Brisbane is worth visiting ? This guide details everything you can do for a week in Brisbane , but you can adapt it to your own timeframes to plan the perfect trip.

Or if you are looking for a perfect 3 day Sydney itinerary then we also have you covered.

If you are on the fence about visiting Melbourne, we hope that this article inspires you to visit. As you can see there is so much to see and do, and add to your own Melbourne itinerary. So if you are a fan of culture, good food, good drinks, friendly people, and much much more Melbourne is definitely the place for you. Have a great trip and enjoy your 3 day Melbourne itinerary.

And if you are trying to decide between Brisbane and Melbourne , or Melbourne and Sydney here are some helpful guides.

If you found this guide to spending 3 days in Melbourne useful, then make sure you pin it for later.

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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Melbourne is a multicultural metropolis known for being one of the world’s most liveable cities. It boasts unique street art, excellent dining options, and world-class sports events. If it’s your first-time visiting Victoria’s capital, don’t miss its state-of-the-art museums, art galleries, historical sites, and picturesque nature and green spaces. Each of its glorious attractions and hot spots will make your 3 days in Melbourne worthwhile and memorable no matter what time of the year you visit.

Although the weather here changes quickly and summer can be scorching, its welcoming vibe and the extraordinary experience it provides make up for everything. Follow your tastebuds and visit its hip restaurants and brunch spots, admire the colorful murals around town, or explore its central business district. If you don’t know where to start your 3 days in Melbourne, head to Flinders Street Station and get lost in the city. It’s the Southern Hemisphere’s busiest suburban railway station, a famous attraction for visitors, and a common meeting point for locals.

There’s no shortage of things to see and do in Melbourne, so you will never have any dull moment in the city. It can be hard to visit all of its top attractions and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture if you only have 3 days in Melbourne. But this guide should help you capture the best of the city and its unmissable locations. Just be sure to drop off your bags with Bounce luggage storage in Melbourne to start your adventure without the burden of extra gear and unneeded belongings.

Melbourne Itinerary: Day 1

Morning: breakfast at queen victoria market.

Commence your Melbourne trip at Queen Victoria Market , a bustling city market home to more than 600 small businesses. It has been the city’s heart and soul for around 140 years, with an abundance of fresh produce, unique, handmade products, clothing, souvenirs, and great food and coffee shops. Before heading out and beginning your journey, have a refreshing cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast at one of the cafés here to start your day with a bang.

For food lovers, you’ll enjoy the Ultimate Foodie Tour, a delicious two-hour guided walking tour of the historic Market. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about the Market’s history, taste fresh produce, learn some essential shopping and cooking tips, and discover numerous unique ingredients. You’ll also visit some of the best traders in the Market and stroll through its heritage-listed food halls.

Afternoon: Stroll at Federation Square

Over two kilometers from the Market, you’ll find Federation Square , also called Fed Square. It’s a modern piazza and the city’s cultural and civic center with an array of restaurants, bars, cafes, galleries, and excellent tourist experiences. It also hosts various events throughout the year that capture the hearts of its residents and visitors. Since its inception, it has received over 100 million visitors and has been recognized as the world’s sixth Best Public Square.

Directly opposite Fed Square is Flinders Street Station, the country’s oldest train station. It’s a distinctive railway station you won’t miss with its arched entrance, green copper dome, and yellow façade. It is situated on the corner of Swanston and Flinders streets in the Melbourne CBD. Then from the station, walk down Hosier Lane and marvel at its awe-inspiring street art.

If you’re looking for more shopping opportunities, the Bourke Street Mall is only about five minutes from Federation Square. It is home to two major department stores, David Jones and Myer, and several fashion retailers. Don’t miss the opportunity to walk around Bourke Street, which used to house some of the best cinemas and theaters in town. Today, its entertainment scene has become more vibrant with the addition of new restaurants, entertainment venues, and shops.

Night: Cruise on the Yarra River

Perhaps, there’s no better way to end the first day of your 3 days in Melbourne than cruising along the Yarra River . After a long day wandering around Melbourne CBD, it’s a relaxing way to see excellent sights and get an insight into the river’s history.

You’ll find an array of cruise companies along Southbank, offering various services to visitors. You can take advantage of a bottomless cocktail cruise, ideal for birthday parties, night outs, big groups, and special occasions. There are also deluxe boat cruises, offering luxury experiences on one of the iconic waterways in Victoria. It’s a great way to enjoy a memorable evening with families, friends, or yourself, which is why it should always be part of your Melbourne itinerary.

Melbourne Itinerary: Day 2

Morning: fitzroy and collingwood districts.

Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Fitzroy and Collingwood on the morning of the second day of your Melbourne itinerary. Start your day with a tasty breakfast in Collingwood at Two Birds Café at Peel Street, or get a dose of your daily caffeine at Aunty Peg’s or Proud Mary. You may also treat yourself to some Argentinian pastries at To Be Frank.

Head west of Collingwood, and you’ll reach another cultural hub in the city, the Fitzroy district. It embodies the city’s hipster personality, with trendy eateries, colorful street art, vintage shops, traditional pubs, restaurants, and live music. Most of the things to do here involve food and drink, but it also offers tons of activities to keep you entertained.

Stop at Gertrude Street and find independent retailers and several designer shops. You’ll also see galleries, boutiques, old-school pubs, vintage wares, and costume hire in just one strip. Then head down the lively Brunswick Street to explore more shops or discover the brand new Market. There’s also a gallery that provides exhibit space for emerging and experienced local and international artists.

Afternoon: Visit to Melbourne Museum

Your 3 days in Melbourne won’t be complete without visiting Melbourne Museum. It’s only a short walk from the Brunswick Street Gallery in the heart of Fitzroy. The gallery features seven spaces and four studios, which house some of the city’s leading designers and makers.

The Museum provides opportunities to discover history, culture, nature, and science. It is open every day, from 9 am to 5 pm, allowing visitors to experience the remarkable wonders of life. Kids and adults alike can explore the different aspects of life through exhibitions and galleries. You can learn about life’s origin and evolution in Victoria, delve deeper into the story of the renowned racehorse, Phar Lap, walk through a living rainforest, and more.

If you plan to visit Melbourne with kids, don’t miss the chance to take them to this museum. It offers immersive activities and interactive programs where your little ones can learn through hands-on experiences. Then come face to face with the Triceratops, one of the marvelous creatures that have ever walked on earth!

Take a refreshing break from exploring the galleries and head to the Mercury Restaurant at the ground level for a quick bite while overlooking the Royal Exhibition Building. Also located at the ground level, check out the Museum Market Café and get fresh foods that experienced and talented chefs meticulously prepared. Before heading out, stop at the museum shop, where you can buy local products that reflect the museum’s themes.

Night: Party at Melbourne Bars and Clubs

Now that you’re on the second night of your 3-day Melbourne itinerary, it’s time to experience its lively nightlife. As the most populous city in Victoria and the country’s second-most populous city, expect a rich and varied nightlife scene in Melbourne. Aside from its incredible cultural institutions, it’s also a global center for theater, street art, and live music. While it remains busy and glorious during the day, it quickly becomes a quirky yet relaxing and shining city at night.

When the sun goes down, its once-quiet streets become alive with lines of clubs, pubs, bars, theaters, restaurants, and other great entertainment options. There are also karaoke gigs around the city, casinos, and games, such as pool and bowling. It has everything, from some of the wildest nightclubs with high-profile musicians to quiet pubs, bars, and clubs to hanging out and meeting new people.

If you’re in the Melbourne city center, you don’t have to go too far and check out one of the city’s best bars, 1806. It’s an elegant gem you’ll discover at Exhibition Street, offering the finest wine collection you’ll love. Since 1930, it’s been setting the standards for cocktail making, providing visitors with the most delicious fusions in every glass.

For creative cocktails over the breathtaking city skyline, go to The Q. It's a rooftop bar on top of the Quincy Hotel Melbourne, offering a stunning rooftop experience while enjoying an outstanding selection of crafted signature cocktails and Asian-inspired plates. The Atrium on 35 is another bar with spectacular Melbourne skyline views perched on the 35th floor of a five-star hotel on Collins Street. It opens from 5 pm until late, serving signature cocktails and the best champagnes.

If you want to do more than partying during one of your 3 days in Melbourne, you can always participate in its nighttime events. Watch a show at Her Majesty’s Theatre, visit the comedy venues for a good laugh, or scare yourself on a spooky ghost tour.

Melbourne Itinerary: Day 3

Morning: south melbourne.

On the final day of your 3 days in Melbourne, explore South Melbourne, one of the oldest areas in Victoria’s capital. It is one of the city’s gastronomic centers, home to the historic South Melbourne Market . The market is your best stop for the freshest fruits and vegetables and the best ingredients you need in the kitchen. But if cooking isn’t exactly your forte, it has numerous restaurants that offer local and international cuisines.

After eating, take a scenic walk on South Melbourne Beach. Although a quiet and peaceful beach, it remains popular among locals, visitors, and athletes, who enjoy a relaxing walk, swimming, running and doing other activities in its welcoming atmosphere. Its clear waters, white sand, and various playgrounds around the area make it an ideal destination for families.

Afternoon Stroll at Royal Botanic Gardens

Another tourist spot you don’t want to miss when you visit Melbourne is the Royal Botanic Gardens. It attracts nearly two million visitors each year, featuring a Free Guided Walk and an Aboriginal Heritage Walk. You can also enjoy boating on the Ornamental Lake or riding on the Garden Explorer. Here, you can be close to nature and witness native wildlife just minutes from the city center.

The Botanic Gardens expand across over thirty-eight hectares and display a diverse collection of plants worldwide, including rare species. They are magnificently landscaped among the well-manicured lawns and tranquil lakes. The gardens are free for all, with wheelchair access and wide pathways for prams and strollers.

From the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, have a pleasant walk to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). It can hold up to 100,000 people, making it Australia’s largest stadium and the tenth-largest in the world. It’s proof of Australians' love for cricket and has been the setting for countless great events in the country’s sporting history since its establishment in 1853.

Night: Thrill at Melbourne Skydeck

End your Melbourne travel itinerary and enjoy breathtaking views at Melbourne Skydeck. Located in the heart of the city, the Skydeck is the highest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere. It captures everything special and beautiful about the city and beyond, providing visitors with unforgettable experiences. It’s a great place to see the delightful transition from sunset to nightfall. You’ll witness the changing sky hues and see how the city below comes alive with sparkling lights at night.

If you’re feeling brave or want to challenge your mates, try watching the city on the Edge. It’s a glass box experience that will leave you suspended about 300 meters above the city streets.

Visit Melbourne for 3 Days

Your Melbourne trip will be filled with endless fun, discovery, and entertainment, no matter your interest or reason for visiting. It’s so easy to find your way, and you can get around the city and visit major Melbourne attractions on foot.

If you don’t have a car, it’s convenient to take a bus, but there’s also an extensive train and tram system to take you to various tourist spots. You can also take the City Circle Tram, which will lead you around the central business district border and provide information on famous landmarks. Still planning your visit to Melbourne? Check out these guides for more ideas!

Things To Do In Melbourne With Kids Where To Stay In Melbourne: The Ultimate Neighborhood Guide Where To Find The Best Street Food In Melbourne

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3 Day Melbourne Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide

Melbourne is known for being one of the most artistic and unique cities in all of Australia!

From the works of art in the streets full of graffiti to the endless tourist hotspots, this Melbourne Itinerary has something for everyone.

I actually explored Melbourne City over the course of 6 days but everything I did can easily be squeezed into 3 days in Melbourne.

So if you’re only on a whistle-stop tour of the city, then this 3 Day Melbourne Itinerary is going to be perfect for you.

Equally, if you have a little more time in Melbourne then spread the load and take it easy, it’s totally up to you.

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – MELBOURNE ITINERARY

Eureka Skydeck
Shrine Of Remembrance
St Kilda and Brighton
Melbourne River Cruise
Albert Park and Beach
Melbourne City Bikes
Melbourne Ice Bar
South Wharf
Queen Victoria Market
Melbourne Zoo

WHERE IS MELBOURNE & HOW TO GET THERE

Melbourne is a city within the state of Victoria in Australia. Situated on Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne is famed for its art, cafe culture, and incredible architecture.

Years ago when Melbourne was being established, they decided that all buildings must be different from one another, henceforth creating this incredibly unique city.

Whether you’re coming from abroad or taking an internal flight within Australia, you’ll fly into Melbourne Airport in Tullamarine.

From here you can grab any taxi or take the Sky Bus and make your way into the city.

Melbourne City is only about 20 to 30 minutes drive from Tullamarine Airport, depending on traffic.

Search All → Flights to Melbourne

Linked up by an incredible system of trams and trains, it’s super easy to make your way into Melbourne City via the train.

The main station you’ll come into is the Southern Cross train station. This is the most centrally located train station in Melbourne.

You can take a taxi to your accommodation or jump on one of the many trams outside the station. Within central Melbourne, there is a fee-free tram zone which is great for the budget.

GETTING AROUND MELBOURNE

Honestly, if your feet allow it, the best way to get around Melbourne City is on foot.

It’s a relatively small city, everything is within easy reach, and you get to experience everything the city offers and see a hell of a lot more.

If you’re unable to walk, the next best thing is the tram. In the heart of the city, you’ll find the free tram zone where you can hop on and off the trams for free.

If you’re outside of that zone, then you’ll need to purchase an MYKI card that you’re able to top up and use to tap on and off the trams.

Note: You’re unable to use your debit/credit card to pay for the trams.

If you have your own rental car then great! This makes it much easier for you to explore Melbourne at your own pace.

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MELBOURNE ITINERARY – DAY 1

Eureka skydeck.

Standing 88 floors and almost 300 meters above sea level, the Eureka Skydeck in Melbourne is the World’s Tallest Residential Tower and the highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere.

Eureka Skydeck is one of the top attractions in the city and something that’s not to be missed on your Melbourne 3 day itinerary.

This Melbourne landmark is located right in the center of the city making it super easy to find and super close to many other attractions.

With a range of different entry tickets and packages on offer, you have a few options depending on your budget.

Click Here to purchase your Eureka Skydeck ticket online in advance with Klook for just $20.35 AUD.

At the top of Eureka Tower, you’ll be greeted with 360 degrees, panoramic views of Melbourne City from a birdseye perspective.

You’ll be able to take the walk around, marveling at the sights and reading the signs which inform you of the surrounding buildings.

Also, it’s worth noting that Southbank, where the Eureka Skydeck is located, is one of the best areas for accommodation in Melbourne CBD .

If you purchased one of the packages that come with the additional extras, you’ll have the chance to take part in the Virtual Reality game where you get to walk on the Skydeck Plank.

Equally, if you’ve purchased the Edge Experience tickets, you’ll queue up and wait your turn to experience the fear of stepping on the glass floor, 88 floors above.

Full Blog Post → Eureka Skydeck Melbourne

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SHRINE OF REMEMBRANCE

This has to be one of the most underrated tourist attractions in the city and not to be missed during your visit.

The Shrine of Remembrance, commonly known as The Shrine is a war memorial standing in the center of Melbourne, located in Kings Domain on St Kilda Road.

Built for the women and men who served in World War I to remember the bravery they showed whilst serving their country.

Take a walk around, learning about the people who served Australia before climbing the stairs and walking out on the top balcony to soak up some of Melbourne’s most incredible views.

Search All → Hostels / Resorts / Hotels in Melbourne

ST KILDA & BRIGHTON

A little further out of town, escape to the seaside town of St Kilda and Brighton during your 3 days in Melbourne.

Two very popular towns, running side-by-side and home to some incredible beaches.

Famed for its brightly colored beach huts, Brighton is home to some stunning homes boasting amazing architecture, if that is your thing.

If not, grab a towel, and a few Corona ‘s , and spend the day down by the beach. Don’t forget to get an Instagram-worth shot in front of the beach huts.

If you’re into water sports, St Kilda is a great location for those who enjoy windsurfing. Melbourne is known for being a windy city at times and St Kilda provides the best stomping ground for those who enjoy water activities.

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MELBOURNE ITINERARY – DAY 2

Melbourne river cruise.

Fancy seeing the city a little differently, jump on one of the many Melbourne River Cruises that take you up and down the river, educating you on the buildings towering above you and the history of this incredible city.

You have the choice of which cruise operator to take and what direction you wish to travel in.

Head inland, learning about things such as the sports arenas and the development of the city in that direction, or take the tour that heads towards the ports and docklands.

Here you’ll learn about the development and history of these highly important docklands, and they’ll also talk to you about the tragedies and successes Melbourne has suffered in its growth over the years.

ALBERT PARK & BEACH

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, head down to Albert Park.

Slightly south of the city and bordering the beach, Albert Park is the perfect way to get some downtime, have time to do a little workout, and soak up the atmosphere.

With a lake in the middle, cafes and restaurants surrounding, and beautiful walkways, this is a great way to slow the pace during your visit.

The highlight of Albert Park has to be the view of the Melbourne City Skyline. Simply epic!

MELBOURNE CITY BIKES

Dotted around the city, you’ll see Melbourne City Bikes, a cheap, easy, and quick way of getting around town to all of the tourist spots.

Download the app, locate your closest bike and hop on.

Whilst you’re down near Albert Park, I highly recommend getting some of these bikes. What better way to spend an afternoon than riding around one of the best locations in Melbourne?

Plus, while you’re at it, you can visit the city and take a self-guided street art tour in Melbourne . Can you think of a better way to stay fit?

MELBOURNE ITINERARY – DAY 3

Melbourne ice bar.

Ready for one of the most unique experiences in Melbourne? Head to the one and only Ice Bar in Australia, Melbourne Ice Bar.

Located in Federation Square, Melbourne Ice Bar is home to one of the most unique bars in the city.

The standard entry to Melbourne Ice Bar is around $39 AUD, however, when booking online with Klook you can save a couple of dollars and get this for $37 AUD.

Head in, get rugged up, and take advantage of one of the free cocktails you get upon arrival.

Enjoy looking around this insane bar, play a little ice hockey, or pose for the cameras inside the bar.

This is definitely a great way to spend the last day of your 3 days in Melbourne.

Full Blog Post → Ice Bar Melbourne

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SOUTH WHARF

Feel like you need to walk off the alcohol from the Ice Bar? Take a walk all the way down the South Wharf in Melbourne.

This stunning walk through the city, all along the river takes you past historic and modern buildings, through some stunning suburbs, and past some of the many entertainers along the wharf.

Feeling peckish? Jump into one of the many restaurants and bars located along the South Wharf and grab yourself a snack or something more substantial.

Ranging from street-food-style bars to high-class restaurants, there’s something for everyone here. Alternatively, just enjoy the view and atmosphere that South Wharf has to offer.

QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET

This one depends on what day you visit Melbourne. Closed on Wednesdays and Mondays and closed by 4:00 pm every day, Queen Victoria Market located in West Melbourne is a great way to see away some hours, wandering around the market looking for a few bargains.

Whether it be souvenirs for loved ones or unique, one-of-a-kind finds for yourself, this market has it all.

As I mentioned, check Queen Victoria Market’s opening hours before going . It’s definitely not an open-all-hours attraction.

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MELBOURNE ZOO

Missed the market? Why not head to Melbourne Zoo? Great for both adults and children and home to a plethora of animal species, Melbourne Zoo is a great way to see away a few hours.

Take part in animal feeding, educate yourself with the keeper talks and just enjoy what this zoo has to offer.

At $38 AUD for adults when booked online with Klook , it’s definitely worth the money for this Melbourne day trip.

If you’re looking to save a bit of money, children under 16 get in FREE on weekends only!

Get Your Ticket → Melbourne Zoo

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MELBOURNE

Melbourne has hundreds of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:

Luxury: Crowne Plaza

Arguably the largest and most luxurious hotel within the city, the Crowne Plaza. Located right on the South Wharf and in the heart of the city.

From concierge, luxury large rooms, comfortable beds, and a top-quality restaurant located at the foot of the hotel, this is perfect for those looking for a luxury stay in Melbourne.

Mid Range: Miami Hotel Melbourne

Located in West Melbourne and within walking distance to the city center, Miami Hotel makes for the perfect mid-range accommodation in Melbourne.

With small, compact rooms, equipped with a kitchenette, private bathrooms, and wifi, this hotel is great value for money.

Perfect for couples, traveling friends, and families.

Budget: Discovery Parks

This one is perfect for those on a budget, whether you’re a backpacker, couple, or solo traveler. If you’re traveling in a van, this accommodation option is perfect for you.

Located in Braybrook, northwest of the city has to be one of the nicest campgrounds around.

If you’re not traveling in a van, book into one of their many cabins. A little more expensive than the campsites but still well worth the money and you still get to make use of the incredible features.

FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN MELBOURNE, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

Best time to visit melbourne.

The best time to visit Melbourne is during the Autumn months between March and May for suitable temperatures and fewer tourists.

Alternatively, visiting Melbourne in Spring between the months of September to November is also a great time of the year, weatherwise.

WHAT TO PACK FOR MELBOURNE

When visiting Melbourne, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you.

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FINAL THOUGHTS – 3 DAYS IN MELBOURNE

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions at all about this Melbourne Itinerary, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

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THANKS FOR READING

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A gondola in the Yarra River with Melbourne city views in the background.

3 days in Melbourne: an itinerary for first-time visitors

Spencer Samaroo

Three days in Melbourne

Planning a trip to Melbourne? Here are our top picks...

Stay: Veriu Queen Victoria Market

Walking tour: Complete Melbourne

Food tour: Foodies Bucket Lis t

Experience: Melbourne Cricket Ground tour

Day trip: Great Ocean Road

To put it simply, Melbourne is an incredible city to visit.

Recognised as the cultural capital of Australia, it offers everything from world-class museums, art galleries, and an excellent nightclubbing scene to top-notch dining, numerous historical landmarks and plenty of outstanding natural beauty. On top of that, there are no less than 22 professional ball sports teams based in the city.

And that barely scratches the surface!

So, if you aren't sure where to begin, this three-day itinerary will give you an unforgettable introduction to this captivating city.

Colourful buildings on Brunswick St in Fitzroy, Melbourne

How long should I spend in Melbourne?

Ideally, the more time you spend in Melbourne, the better - you won't run out of things to do or see. However, as a general guideline, spending at least three to four days in the city is recommended for those coming here for the first time.

This will give you a decent taste of the Melbourne experience by exploring the city's iconic landmarks, enjoying its rich culture, savouring its diverse culinary scene, and even venturing on a day trip to the Great Ocean Road.

If you have more time, you can delve deeper into Melbourne's neighbourhoods, discover its vibrant arts and music scene and engage in local experiences.

Irrespective of what you are into and where you decide to go, Melbourne offers a variety of attractions and activities to satisfy the curiosity and preferences of all visitors.

Cars and a tram outside Flinders Station in Melbourne

Day 1: Exploring Melbourne's iconic sights

Start your first day in Melbourne with a quintessential Australian breakfast at one of the city's many cafes. Melbourne is renowned for its coffee culture, so make sure to enjoy a cup of flat white or cappuccino.

Head to Degraves Street or Centre Place , two charming laneways filled with cafes, for a delicious start to your day. The Quarter and Aix Cafe are good places to go, respectively.

Federation Square, Flinders Street Station and St. Paul's Cathedral

After breakfast, take a short walk to Federation Square - often called 'Fed Square' by locals.

This iconic meeting place is home to various cultural institutions, including the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) and the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV).

Take some time to explore the square's unique architecture and enjoy the outdoor art installations.

From Federation Square, walk across the street to the historic Flinders Street Station , an iconic Melbourne landmark. The station's stunning architecture and distinctive yellow façade make it a must-visit photo spot.

Right next door, you'll find St. Paul's Cathedral - a beautiful Gothic-style building worth visiting for its intricate stained glass windows and peaceful interior.

Melbourne CBD with the Yarra River in the foreground

Southbank, Eureka Skydeck 88 and the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

Make your way towards Southbank , a bustling waterfront precinct along the Yarra River. Here, you'll find plenty of lunch options, ranging from Japanese and Italian to French and Chinese.

Many of these venues offer al fresco dining that lets you enjoy delicious meals with sparkling views of the river and Melbourne's impressive skyline.

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the Yarra River to the Eureka Tower .

Standing proudly as the highest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere, the Eureka Skydeck 88 , as its name implies, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Melbourne from 88 floors up.

On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Dandenong Ranges and beyond. If you are not afraid of heights, don't forget to experience The Edge , a glass cube that extends from the building - giving you the sensation of floating above the city.

Then return to Federation Square and visit the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). It's Australia's oldest public art gallery and houses an impressive art collection, including works from renowned international artists including Constable, Gainsborough, Pissarro and Renoir.

Before you go, make sure you refer to the NGV's website for any special exhibitions or events scheduled during your visit.

Dinner in Chinatown

For dinner, head to Melbourne's vibrant Chinatown, which resides on Little Bourke Street in the heart of the CBD. There, you'll find a plethora of restaurants serving delicious Chinese, Vietnamese and other Asian cuisines.

Whether you prefer dumplings, sizzling hot pot, or Peking duck, Chinatown has a variety of options to satisfy your cravings. There are also some lovely shops you can check out too.

After dinner, you can walk off what you ate by strolling through Melbourne's famous laneways.

Hosier Lane and AC/DC Lane are known for their ever-changing street art and graffiti. Exploring them is a great way to experience Melbourne's artistic side and capture some great photos.

If you're a fan of live music, you can also check out some of the city's live music venues for a memorable night out.

People wandering through the food section of the Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Shopping

Start your second day with breakfast at Hardware Lane - another charming laneway in Melbourne's CBD. The lane is lined with cafes offering a range of breakfast options to suit all tastes. So you can enjoy your meal while soaking in the laneway's European-Melbourne atmosphere.

Melbourne Museum

After breakfast, head to Carlton Gardens . There, you'll find the Melbourne Museum . This terrific museum is an excellent place to explore Victoria's cultural and natural history.

Inside it, you'll find a range of exhibits displaying everything from dinosaur skeletons to cultural artefacts that date back centuries.

Overall, the museum offers a wide range of interactive areas, themed displays and IMAX cinemas that are sure to fascinate visitors of all ages.

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

After the museum, take a short tram ride to the Queen Victoria Market . This historic market has been a Melbourne institution since it opened in 1878. It covers more than seven hectares, making it the largest open-air marketplace in the Southern Hemisphere.

Overall, it is an excellent place to browse the various market stalls, selling everything from funky clothing to eclectic souvenirs. It is also a lovely place to enjoy international street food, fresh seafood and gourmet sandwiches, among other delightful food options.

The historic Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne, Australia.

Royal Exhibition Building and shopping on Bourke Street

Adjacent to the Queen Victoria Market, you'll find the Royal Exhibition Building .

This UNESCO World Heritage-listed building is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture and is often used for exhibitions and events.

Even if there's no exhibition during your visit, you can still admire the building's grandeur from the outside. It is also a terrific place for people-watching.

Head back to the CBD and indulge in some retail therapy on Bourke Street . This bustling shopping district boasts plenty of high-end boutiques and popular chain stores.

If you are looking for fashion, electronics, crafts or souvenirs, Bourke Street has plenty of options to satisfy your shopping cravings.

Dinner in Fitzroy

For dinner, venture to the trendy neighbourhood of Fitzroy - known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and street art.

Whilst there, you can choose from a wide variety of dining options, including Rice Paper Scissors (Asian) and Mukka (Indian), two of the most popular venues in town.

After you have eaten, Fitzroy's unique atmosphere and creative energy make it a great place to explore after your meal.

Melbourne is renowned for its thriving cultural scene. So why not consider catching a live performance in the evening?

Check out what's playing at one of the city's theatres or live music venues. On any given day, there are usually plenty of options for plays, concerts and comedy shows. So you should not have trouble finding an entertainment option you'll be interested in.

The 12 Apostles along Australia's Great Ocean Road.

Day 3: Great Ocean Road

On your final day in Melbourne, embark on a day trip to the Great Ocean Road - one of Australia's most scenic coastal drives.

Book a guided tour in advance or rent a car for the journey. If you intend to drive from Melbourne, the transit to the Great Ocean Road takes about three hours - so an early start is essential.

As you make your way along the Great Ocean Road, stop for lunch in the charming coastal town of Apollo Bay .

There are several cafes and restaurants there that offer delicious seafood, which you can enjoy with stunning ocean views - either at the venues themselves or one of the picnic tables at the beach.

Explore the Twelve Apostles

Continue your drive along the Great Ocean Road to the iconic Twelve Apostles . These majestic limestone rock formations - rising imperiously from the Southern Ocean - are a must-see.

Take a stroll along the viewing platforms and admire the dramatic scenery. Walk down the Gibson Steps for an even more breathtaking view of some of them.

A short drive from the Twelve Apostles, you'll find Loch Ard Gorge . This natural wonder is named after the ship Loch Ard - which ran aground nearby in 1878.

Whilst there, you can explore the gorge's beautiful beach and limestone cliffs, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for Instagram selfies.

Make your journey back to Melbourne in the late afternoon, enjoying the scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road once more. The return trip will take around 3 hours and enable you to see the sun starting to set - so plan accordingly.

Arriving back in Melbourne, you'll have time for a final meal in the city. Choose a restaurant or eatery that you haven't had the chance to visit yet, or revisit one of your favourites.

Loch Ard Gorge on Great Ocean Road, Australia

If you have more time in Melbourne

If you have more than three days to spend in Melbourne, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city in greater depth and venture beyond its immediate surroundings. Here's a list of additional attractions and experiences to consider during your extended stay:

Royal Botanic Gardens: Take a leisurely stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens - a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Marvel at its lush landscapes and the various themed gardens that have been beautifully and skillfully cultivated by the team there.

St Kilda : Take the tram to St Kilda and spend the day in Melbourne's most popular beachy suburb. Relax on the beach, go to the iconic Luna Park, and watch the adorable penguin colony at sunset.

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG): Sports fans may want to catch a cricket or Australian Rules Football (AFL) game at the MCG - Melbourne Cricket Ground. You can even take a guided tour of this iconic stadium .

Phillip Island: Head to Phillip Island to witness the famous Penguin Parade - where gorgeous little penguins tootle back to their nests after enjoying a day in the sea. You can also visit the Koala Conservation Centre and enjoy the island's beaches.

Wilsons Promontory National Park: Travel to Wilsons Promontory , Victoria's largest coastal wilderness area. It offers pristine beaches, hiking trails and abundant wildlife - making it a true nature lover's paradise.

Grampians National Park: For a more extended adventure, visit the Grampians National Park. It is known for its rugged landscapes, hiking trails, waterfalls and remarkable Aboriginal rock art. Plan to spend two days here to really appreciate its wonders or if you're really pressed for time, you can visit as a day trip from Melbourne .

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Author - Spencer Samaroo

Spencer is a freelance travel writer with over 20 years of experience in producing written content for tourism-related blogs and businesses. A thalassophile who was afflicted with wanderlust from a young age, he has visited over 40 countries in the world.

An ex-pat Brit who now lives on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, he cites Miami Beach in the USA and Palm Cove in Australia as his favourite travel destinations. Specialising in writing about beach destinations around the world, he would probably bleed sand if you cut his arm open

Last Updated 3 March 2024

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MELBOURNE Itinerary (How To Spend 3 Days)

Day 1: exploring melbourne’s city center.

Welcome to Melbourne, the vibrant and cosmopolitan capital of the state of Victoria, Australia. On your first day, immerse yourself in the energy and charm of Melbourne’s city center, where you’ll find a rich blend of history, culture, and modern attractions.

Start your day by visiting Federation Square, a bustling cultural precinct that showcases Melbourne’s contemporary art and architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the Yarra River, enjoying the picturesque views and stopping by the iconic Flinders Street Station for a photo opportunity.

Next, head to the historic Queen Victoria Market, a must-visit for any food lover. Marvel at the fresh produce, indulge in delicious street food, and browse through unique souvenirs. Don’t forget to grab a famous Melbourne coffee while you’re there.

Continue your exploration by wandering through the laneways and arcades that Melbourne is famous for. Discover hidden street art, boutique shops, and trendy cafes. Degraves Street, with its lively atmosphere and European-inspired vibe, is a must-visit.

For lunch, indulge in a multicultural feast at one of Melbourne’s many food precincts. Whether you’re craving Chinese, Italian, or Vietnamese cuisine, Melbourne has it all. Explore Chinatown or Lygon Street, known as Melbourne’s “Little Italy,” and savor the diverse flavors on offer.

In the afternoon, visit the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), one of the world’s most famous sporting arenas. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and experience the thrill of standing on the hallowed turf.

To end your day on a high note, make your way to Eureka Skydeck 88, the highest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere. Enjoy panoramic views of the city as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over Melbourne’s skyline.

Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at one of Melbourne’s renowned restaurants. From fine dining establishments to hidden gems in the laneways, there are endless options to satisfy your taste buds.

As you explore Melbourne’s city center, be sure to keep an eye out for the city’s iconic trams, which add to the charm and character of the streets. They are not only a convenient mode of transportation but also an essential part of the Melbourne experience.

With a day spent exploring Melbourne’s city center, you’ll have just scratched the surface of what this dynamic city has to offer. Soak in the atmosphere, immerse yourself in the local culture, and get ready for more adventures in the days to come.

Day 2: Discovering Melbourne’s Cultural Highlights

On your second day in Melbourne, immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural scene. From art galleries to museums and iconic landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Start your day with a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum. Explore the extensive collection of Australian and international art, including works by renowned artists such as Picasso and Warhol. Don’t miss the iconic stained glass ceiling at the Great Hall, a true masterpiece.

Next, head to the Docklands precinct, a vibrant waterfront area that offers a blend of modern architecture, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. Take a ride on the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel for stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

For lunch, venture to the vibrant neighborhood of Fitzroy and explore its eclectic mix of cafes, boutiques, and street art. Enjoy a diverse range of cuisines, from trendy brunch spots to hidden gems serving global flavors.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Melbourne Museum, located in the stunning Carlton Gardens. Discover the rich natural and cultural history of Australia through interactive exhibits, including the famous Phar Lap, a legendary racehorse.

Continue your cultural journey by exploring the bustling arts precinct of Southbank. Be captivated by live performances at the Arts Centre Melbourne or attend a play or musical at one of the world-class theaters. Take a leisurely stroll along the Southbank Promenade, lined with restaurants and bars offering stunning views of the city skyline.

In the evening, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Melbourne’s street art scene in the famous laneways of Hosier Lane and AC/DC Lane. Marvel at the colorful murals and graffiti that adorn the walls and immerse yourself in the creativity that defines Melbourne’s urban landscape.

End your day with a delightful dinner at one of Melbourne’s multicultural precincts, such as Fitzroy or Brunswick. Explore the diverse range of international cuisines on offer, from Thai and Ethiopian to Mexican and Lebanese.

As you explore Melbourne’s cultural highlights, keep in mind that the city is known for its ever-changing and dynamic arts scene. Be open to unexpected discoveries and embrace the creativity that permeates every corner of the city.

With a day dedicated to exploring Melbourne’s cultural highlights, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s artistic heritage and creative spirit. From world-class museums to vibrant street art, Melbourne is a cultural paradise waiting to be discovered.

Day 3: Exploring Melbourne’s Nature and Surroundings

On your final day in Melbourne, it’s time to venture outside the city and embrace the natural beauty that surrounds it. From stunning coastlines to serene gardens, there are plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts.

Start your day early and make your way to the famous Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives. Marvel at the breathtaking views as you wind your way along the rugged coastline, passing iconic landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.

As you explore the Great Ocean Road, take the opportunity to spot native wildlife along the way. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, koalas, and diverse bird species that call this region home.

After an exhilarating drive, head back towards Melbourne and visit the Royal Botanic Gardens. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque gardens and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Admire the diverse flora, including exotic plants, serene lakes, and colorful flowerbeds.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic in the gardens or dine at one of the nearby restaurants, offering delectable cuisine amidst a serene setting.

In the afternoon, make your way to the Yarra Valley, a renowned wine region just outside of Melbourne. Embark on a wine tasting tour, sampling some of Australia’s finest wines while enjoying the picturesque vineyards and rolling hills. Visit the local cellar doors and indulge in artisan chocolates and cheeses.

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Dandenong Ranges is a must. Explore the lush rainforest trails, visit the iconic Puffing Billy steam train, and enjoy breathtaking views from the Mount Dandenong lookout.

As the day comes to a close, make your way back to Melbourne and savor a delicious dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants along the Yarra River. Enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline as you reflect on your memorable Melbourne adventure.

Throughout your day of exploring Melbourne’s nature and surroundings, remember to respect the environment and practice responsible tourism. Take only photographs, leave only footprints, and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you.

With a day dedicated to exploring Melbourne’s nature and surroundings, you’ll get a taste of the breathtaking landscapes that Victoria has to offer. From stunning coastlines to lush gardens, this day will leave you with lasting memories of Melbourne’s natural wonders.

Helpful Tips for Your Melbourne Adventure

As you embark on your Melbourne adventure, here are some helpful tips to make the most of your time in this vibrant city:

Plan your itinerary: While Melbourne offers a plethora of attractions, it’s important to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time. Research the must-visit places and allocate enough time for each activity.
Public transportation: Melbourne has an excellent public transportation system that includes trams, trains, and buses. Consider purchasing a Myki card, which allows you to travel seamlessly across the city. Trams are free within the city center, so hop on and explore!
Explore on foot: Melbourne is a pedestrian-friendly city, so put on some comfortable shoes and explore its charming neighborhoods on foot. Wander through the laneways, discover hidden gems, and embrace the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Weather: Melbourne’s weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for all seasons in one day. Pack a light jacket or umbrella, regardless of the time of year, to be ready for sudden changes in weather.
Coffee culture: Melbourne is known for its coffee culture, so make sure to indulge in a cup of coffee at one of the local cafes. From specialty roasters to cozy laneway coffee shops, the city offers an array of options for coffee enthusiasts.
Food experiences: Melbourne is a food lover’s paradise, so be sure to sample the diverse culinary scene. From world-class restaurants to food trucks and bustling markets, the city offers an array of cuisines to suit every taste bud.
Stay connected: Melbourne offers free Wi-Fi in many public spaces, including Federation Square and various parks. Stay connected to navigate the city and share your experiences with loved ones back home.
Safety: Melbourne is generally a safe city to explore, but it’s always important to take necessary precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, be aware of your surroundings, and follow any local safety advice provided.
Time to relax: Melbourne has a beautiful coastline, so take some time to relax and unwind at one of its picturesque beaches. St Kilda, Brighton, and Williamstown are popular choices, offering stunning views and a chance to soak up the sun.
Events and festivals: Keep an eye out for events and festivals happening during your visit to Melbourne. The city hosts a wide range of cultural events, sporting competitions, and music festivals throughout the year.

With these helpful tips in mind, you’re ready to embark on a memorable Melbourne adventure. Embrace the city’s vibrant culture, explore its stunning surroundings, and create unforgettable memories in this captivating destination.

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The Wanderbug

Travel blog.

Itinerary: 3 Days in Melbourne

Melbourne is Australia’s second largest city and is considered Australia’s capital of food, culture and sport. It might not have a world-famous icon like the Opera House, but there is much more to do in Melbourne beyond the famous street art and cafe culture.

If you had just three days in Melbourne, I’d recommend spending a day each in the CBD, the southside and the northside.

Explore More: Melbourne Travel Guide

Friday: City Centre

Ngv international.

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is the best art museum in Australia, and luckily, it’s also free which means there are no queues to get in. The NGV has two locations, the NGV International on St Kilda Road (my favourite) and the NGV Australia at the Ian Potter Centre in Fed Square. At the NGV International, you can check out artefacts from the Ancient world (Greece, Italy and the Americas), marvel at Medieval masterpieces and precious Renaissance paintings and sculptures, as well as art from Asia, India and modern times. There are free guided tours twice daily too. I definitely recommend visiting the NGV on a weekday if you can, when you’ll have the museum nearly to yourself.

Flinders Street Station & Fed Square

After the NGV, head across the beautiful Princes Bridge into the Melbourne CBD. As you walk along the bridge towards the city, you’ll have views of Melbourne’s two most iconic sights: Flinders Street Station and Federation Square. Fed Square’s design ruffled a few feathers when it opened in 2002, but it’s since become a well-loved part of Melbourne’s unique skyline. Behind Fed Square is the iconic, towering St Paul’s Cathedral. Three major sights, down!

Check out Melbourne’s famous street art

Melbourne is famous for it’s street art, particularly in the laneways in the CBD. Hosier Lane is the most famous laneway for street art, but they can be found all over the city. You’ll find the most dense collection of street art in the laneways off Flinders Lane (like Hosier Lane, ACDC Lane), but also off Little Bourke Street.

Laneway wanderings

Melbourne’s laneways aren’t just splattered with street art, they’re also crammed with bars, restaurants and cafes. Degraves Street & Centre Place are the most famous laneways for eating and drinking, but keep in mind that these are the most touristy. My picks for the two connected streets are Shandong Mama Mini in Centre Place and the French baguette window in Degraves.

Dinner & drinks in the city

My favourite cocktail bars along Melbourne’s laneways are Eau De Vie and 1806 . Don’t forget to check out some of the city’s rooftop bars: Siglo is simply gorgeous and The Duke Rooftop is one of Melbourne’s newest rooftop bar, perched on top of the city’s oldest pub, and has views out to Fed Square and the historic Forum building.

Chin Chin and MoVida are the most popular restaurants for tourists, but my favourite restaurants in the Melbourne CBD are Trattoria Emilia and San Telmo . Check out my full list of the best restaurants in the Melbourne CBD for more ideas.

Take advantage of Melbourne’s cultural capital and see a show. There are three major theatres in the CBD, as well as at Hamer Hall & the Arts Centre, just across the Yarra (next to the NGV). There is always something on, check out the Arts Centre website to check upcoming shows for your visit. If you’re seeing a show in Southbank at the Arts Centre, Fatto is a great spot for a pre or post show drink, with beautiful views of the Melbourne skyline.

Saturday: Melbourne’s Southside Neighbourhoods

Breakfast at the market.

Melbourne has dozens of markets, but there are three major food markets which rule the roost.

The Queen Victoria Market is the largest covered market in the Southern Hemisphere, and is the oldest in Melbourne. It’s in the northern end of downtown Melbourne, and is the busiest.

The Prahran Market and South Melbourne Market are smaller, but are my favourites. They’re less touristy, and have more of a community atmosphere. I used to do my weekly shopping at the South Melbourne Market when I first moved to Melbourne, and now I live closer to the Prahran Market, so I do my shopping there. Both markets have plenty of stalls and cafes serving breakfast and lunch – my favourites at the Prahran Market are the gozleme stand, the grilled cheese cart and the occasional mushroom burger BBQ pop up outside the coffee shop. At the South Melbourne Market, I can never resist the $10 fish sandwich from the bread & fish peddler outside Claypots Evening Star – if you’d rather sit at a table than on a crate, eat inside at Claypots, which is also fantastic.

Shop on Chapel Street

Chapel Street is Melbourne’s famous shopping & nightlife precinct, which runs through four neighbourhoods on the southside. Chapel Street gets progressively grungier as you work your way down from South Yarra in the north, through to Prahran , Windsor and, then finally, St Kilda in the south. If you’ve gone for breakfast at the Prahran Market, you’ll be a block away from Chapel Street.

The best places to eat on Chapel Street: Lucky Penny for cafe-style fare, Oriental Teahouse for modern Chinese and Leonard’s House of Love for down and dirty Southern USA-style comfort food. Start in the northern end, so you wind up in St Kilda in the afternoon.

Bayside beauty in St Kilda

St Kilda is one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Melbourne , and it’s a must-visit for any first time travellers to the city. This bayside neighbourhood is full of cool bars, shops and fantastic food.

If it’s not too cold, head down to St Kilda Beach (not to swim), but to watch the sunset over the water. You can walk down St Kilda pier at dusk to spot Little Penguins as well, which you can spot climbing all over the rocks at the end of the pier.

Best places to eat in St Kilda: Radio Mexico and Las Tapas.

Sunday: Northside Neighbourhoods

Brunch in richmond.

Brunch is big business in Melbourne, and those avocados aren’t going to eat themselves. Try one of Richmond’s best brunch spots, like Pillar of Salt or St Thomas (the most relaxed of the bunch) on Church Street, or Fifty Acres or Touchwood , both on Bridge Road. After breakfast and coffee, check out the shops along Church Street, Swan Street & Bridge Road.

Wander Fitzroy

Head to Fitzroy for lunch and wander around Smith St & Gertrude St, which have the best cafes & shops in the area. Some of my favourite spots in Fitzroy are Transformer (upscale vegetarian dining), Panama Dining Room and Bad Frankie, which specialise in jaffles (toasted sandwiches).

Tick off a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Melbourne’s Royal Exhibition Building is the city’s only UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the few manmade sites in Australia that has made the cut. This 19th century pavilion is the centrepiece of the beautiful Carlton Gardens, which are a great place for a picnic or just a break from the city.

If you’re so inclined, the Carlton Gardens is also home to the Melbourne Museum.

Over indulge in Melbourne’s Little Italy

Be warned: it’s impossible not to overindulge in Carlton. Carlton is Melbourne’s famous Italian neighbourhood, which centres around Lygon street. Milk the Cow is one of my favourite places to take visitors in Melbourne – you can order cheese flights matched with sparkling or still wine, whiskey or beer. While you wait for a table, have a glass of wine next door at Heart Attack & Vine.

Dodge the Lygon Street tourist trap trattorias and enjoy the real deal for dinner at DOC pizza, followed by a sweet treat from Italian food emporium Brunetti.

What’s your favourite thing to do in Melbourne? What would you like to do on your first time visiting the city?

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Melbourne Itinerary: 3 Days in Melbourne, Australia

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Planning a Melbourne Itinerary is both exciting and challenging – but we have made it easy for you! We have created a perfect 3-Day Melbourne Itinerary that features the best sights. Plus, we venture beyond the city with an amazing Australian Day Trip. Our detailed trip plan includes absolutely everything you need to know for spending 3 Days in Melbourne!

Best Melbourne Itinerary

Our itinerary for Melbourne, Australia is packed with top sightseeing and additional adventures. Ideal for first-time visitors, our Melbourne 3-Day Itinerary contains must-see sights, hidden gems and alternate ideas. Travelers visiting Australia solo, as a family, couple or with a group of friends will all find our Melbourne trip planner useful.

3 Days in Melbourne Trip Plan

In our 3 Day Melbourne Itinerary, we offer a succinct travel plan. Not only do we highlight the prime places to visit in the Melbourne CBD (Central Business District), we include tour recommendations, where to stay and how to get there.

Planning this 3 Day Melbourne Itinerary

While we cover the best activities for a Melbourne 3-Day Itinerary, we understand that some travelers are planning shorter or longer trips to Australia. Therefore, we also share our recommendations for various Melbourne itineraries. Whether you have just one day in Melbourne or are planning a 7-Day Melbourne Itinerary, we’ve got you covered!

Pro Tip: Consider using Travel Planning Printables (like we do) to get (and keep) your vacation to Australia organized.

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com

Our Melbourne Travel Itinerary

Our Melbourne Travel Guide contains everything you need for your Australia trip. So what are we waiting for? Let’s get started touring Melbourne!

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Melbourne Trip Itinerary to plan your trip to Australia!

Day 1: Top Places to Visit in Melbourne CBD

Flinders St Station, Melbourne, Australia

On the first day of your Melbourne in 3 Days Itinerary, explore the sights in the heart of the city, the Melbs CBD.

Melbourne City Exploration

Our List of the Best Things to Do in Melbourne, Australia - Views from the Eureka Skydeck JetSetting Fools

Begin your Melbourne City Tour Itinerary with our Free Self-Guided Walking Tour – and route yourself to the city’s top sights. It includes all the details as well as step-by-step directions. We are sharing some important highlights that you won’t want to miss here, as well.

There were crowds at the Euro Union, a Sunday event at the Queen Victoria Market

Start your day with a cup of coffee at the buzzing Queen Victoria Market . After perusing the goods for sale, stroll through the city to historic Melbourne sights on our walking tour. Arrive in Chinatown by lunchtime so that you can feast on a meal of famous Melbourne dumplings.

View from Eureka Melbourne Sky Deck, Melbourne, AU

Continue on your walking tour of Melbourne, navigating your way to the Eureka Tower. Soar to the 88th floor observation deck ( buy your ticket in advance ) and take in the spectacular Melbourne views. Adrenaline junkies will want to upgrade their ticket to experience “The Edge”. It’s where you basically hang off the side of the building in a glass cube!

Docklands Highrises, Melbourne, Australia

Then, continue your Melbourne walk along the Yarra River to the Docklands. The revived area features heaps of food, drink and entertainment opportunities as well as pleasant views across the harbor to the impressive Bolte Bridge.

To complete your Melbourne city tour, hop on Free Tram #35 (one of our favorite Free Tours in Melbourne ) at the Docklands and ride back to downtown. Not only is a great way to get around, there’s commentary to help you better understand what you’re seeing!

View of Melbourne at Night, Victoria, Australia

In the evening, discover the intriguing Laneways of Melbourne. Dine alfresco along the pedestrian zone on Hardware Lane (locals love Campari House and Max on Hardware). Then delve into the Melbourne nightlife scene hidden deep in the laneways. Use our article about Melbourne Laneways to get our suggestions for where to eat and drink!

Day 2: Melbourne to 12 Apostles Tour

View from 12 Apostles National Park, Australia

On Day 2 of your Melbourne tour itinerary, leave the city behind. Discover the dramatic coastline along the Great Ocean Road (GOR) to the iconic rock formations, the 12 Apostles.

Day Trip to the 12 Apostles

Amazing Loch Ard Gorge View, Great Ocean Road, Australia

Find specific details about what to see and how to choose the right 12 Apostles Tour in our article – Great Ocean Road Day Tour . There’s heaps of tour options, so we can help you make the most of your day trip from Melbourne!

The GOR is a 150-mile-long coastline road that stretches from Torquay to Allansford. The world-famous road features some of the most stunning scenery in Australia. The Great Ocean Road was built after World War I and is dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives during the conflict.

View looking down at Loch Ard Gorge, Australia, Victoria

The biggest Great Ocean Road attraction along the route is the 12 Apostles rock formations. The weather-worn, limestone rocks that stand offshore are simply magnificent. Other places of interest along the Great Ocean Road are cute coastal villages, sandy beaches, parks and memorials.

More Melbourne Day Trips

While the GOR is our top pick for a Melbourne day trip, it is a very long excursion and may not appeal to all travelers. Visitors looking for other day trip options from Melbourne have many choices, too!

Yarra Valley Wine Tasting

Located just 30 miles from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is a well-known wine producing region of Australia, excelling at chardonnay and pinot noir wines. Visitors can join half-or full-day tours of the vineyards and top Australian wineries. Popular tours include tastings at wine estates, gourmet lunches, additional sightseeing and regional offers unique to Victoria. Find out more !

Phillip Island Penguins

Phillip Island – just a two-hour trip from Melbourne – is a wildlife refuge and the best place to see Fairy Penguins! This is an ideal day trip from Melbourne for people of all ages. Most Phillip Island tours include roundtrip transport, wildlife viewing (including koalas and fur seals) and a good position along the Penguin Parade route. This when the little penguins make their evening walk from the water to their burrows. Get more details!

Day 3: Melbourne Neighborhoods and Culture Tour

On the last day of your trip, immerse yourself in the culture of the city by exploring historic neighborhoods and visiting Melbourne’s best museums.

Melbourne Coffee Culture

One of Melbourne's many trendy laneways.

The Melbourne coffee scene is legendary! While opinions vary on who makes the best coffee in Melbourne, Brother Baba Budan, Patricia Coffee Brewers and Dukes Coffee Roasters are all raved about by local coffee aficionados.

Museums in Melbourne

After you are properly fueled for the day, spend the morning in one of the top Melbourne museums. The city boasts a wide range of art galleries, interactive exhibition halls and historic Australian institutions. We’ll leave it up to you to choose how many or how much time you want to spend at these sights.

Bright flowers at the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne, Australia

One of our favorite museums in Melbourne is the National Gallery of Victoria, which offers free entry into the main collection. The nearby Shrine of Remembrance and Royal Botanic Gardens (which is an ideal spot for a picnic lunch) are beautiful destinations that can easily be added to your Melbourne city itinerary.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground from the Eureka Skydeck.

Other entertaining museums and attractions include SEA Life and ScienceWorks – both of which are great things to do in Melbourne when traveling kids. The State Library of Victoria, Melbourne Museum and the Melbourne Gaol are all excellent places to learn more about the history of the city. Sports fans will want to head for the Melbourne Cricket Ground for a stadium tour and to visit the adjoining National Sports Museum.

Melbourne Neighborhood Discovery

In the afternoon, venture beyond the Melbourne CBD to one of the surrounding neighborhoods. Among our favorite Melbourne neighbors are Fitzroy, Collingwood and St. Kilda. The Fitzroy district was developed in the 1830s as a working-class neighborhood and is just a quick tram ride or short walk from downtown Melbourne.

Collingwood Street Art, Melbourne, Australia

Visitors can tour the historic area, which is highlighted by Victoria-era architecture, classic pubs and excellent examples of the thriving Melbourne street art scene. If this is your jam, neighboring Collingwood offers heaps more of the same vibe. Explore on your own or join an intriguing Street Art Tour .

St. Kilda is a seaside bohemian enclave of boutique shops, hipster cafes and stylish restaurants. Many of these are clustered along the Esplanade and Fitzroy Street. Other top reasons to visit the district is the famed Luna Amusement Park, the beautiful residential architecture and the St. Kilda Beach and pier.

Well-connected to the CBD by trams (#12 or #16), St. Kilda is easy to access with Melbourne public transport. Alternately, visitors can take a tram to Port Melbourne then walk along the stunning 2.75mi coastline path to the St. Kilda Pier.

Best Melbourne Pubs & Bars

Beers at Pony Island, Melbourne, Australia

End your Melbourne 3 Days Tour by hoisting a local beverage from an ideal perch. Ponyfish Island is one of our favorite Melbourne Bars due to its unique location on the Yarra River. Other solid options along the water are the Arbory Bar, General Assembly and Riverland.

The best Melbourne rooftop bars – like Naked For Statan (Fitzroy), Madame Brussels, Rooftop Bar & Cinema, Goldilocks or The Rooftop at QT (CBD) and Johnny’s Green Room (Carlton) – are fun spots, too. Cheers to Melbourne!

How Many Days in Melbourne, Australia?

Exterior view of Royal Exhibition Building, Melbourne, Australia

We think our 3-Day Melbourne Itinerary is just long enough to see the top sights. However, there are so many more things to see and do in Melbs!

Our suggested itinerary provides key tips on how to plan a trip to Melbourne. We believe it is the perfect place to start your visit to Australia. That said, if you are spending more (or less) time in the city, we are sharing our advice for creating an itinerary to Melbourne that works best for you!

Melbourne in a Day

Planning what to do in Melbourne for a day is tough – there are just so many options! To create a Melbourne 1-Day Itinerary, visitors will need to pick and choose which sights and attractions interest them most.

For us, an ideal One Day in Melbourne itinerary would feature the sightseeing outlined in Day 1 of our 3-Day Melbourne Itinerary. If time allowed in the evening, we would venture into the Fitzroy neighborhood, as well.

Alternatively, let a tour guide plan your complete Melbourne One-Day Itinerary for a hassle-free trip to the city. This highly-rated coach tour features the best sights of Melbourne. Book it now!

2-Day Itinerary

Creating a 2-Day Melbourne Itinerary is a little bit easier. Still, you will need to make the difficult decision between going on a day trip or staying in the city for further exploration.

We think there are so many fantastic things to see that we would spend both days of our 2 Days in Melbourne Itinerary in the CBD. Basically, we would follow Days 1 and 3 of our above itinerary for Melbourne.

Alternate Melbourne Itinerary 3 Days

Vie w of Docklands, Melbourne, Australia

We believe our 3-Day Melbourne Suggested Itinerary outlined above is the best way to spend a few days in the city. However, visitors not interested in taking a tour on such a short trip should forego the day trip to the 12 Apostles. Instead, spend a third day sightseeing more of the CBD or another Melbourne neighborhood that are reachable by tram.

4 Days in Melbourne Itinerary

Travelers planning a Melbourne 4-Day Itinerary will have no problem filling up their days! To create our ideal 4 Days Melbourne Itinerary, we would follow our outlined 3 day plan above. Then, on the fourth day, we would spend the entire day in St. Kilda discovering the seaside neighborhood, enjoying time on the beach and walking to Port Melbourne.

Melbourne Itinerary 5 Days

With 5 days there is ample time to see the city and explore more of the region. On our perfect 5 days Melbourne Itinerary, we would use our plan for 4 Days – then take an additional day trip. We would choose going to the Yarra Wine Valley . In the evening, hop on a Yarra River Cruise to see Melbourne sights at night!

6 Days in Melbourne

Planning a 6-Day Melbourne Itinerary allows for visitors to see more sights as well as learn about the history. Use our above Melbourne 5-Day Itinerary to start planning your trip. On the last day of either go to Williamstown – an old port town – or Brighton Beach to see the colorful bathing boxes.

Melbourne in 7 Days

Visitors spending 1 week in Melbourne will still find there is plenty to do. We recommend following our tips for our Melbourne 6 Days Itinerary, then attend a local festival or event (like an exciting AFL Footy Match)! Alternatively, the last day could be spent simply wandering your favorite neighborhood, shopping at vintage shops and sipping coffee at a popular Melbourne café.

Melbourne Itinerary 10 Days

Spending 10 days allows sufficient time to really get acquainted with the city, surrounding neighborhoods and state of Victoria. For a fun and adventurous Melbourne 10 Days Itinerary, we recommend following the basic outline of our 7 Days Trip and use the additional 3 days on a guided tour of Grampians National Park. Get more details!

For more advice, read our ultimate guide to the Best Things To Do in Melbourne, Australia .

Where To Stay in Melbourne, Australia

The best neighborhood to stay in Melbourne is the CBD – especially on a short trip. That said, we have also stayed in Collingwood and along the coast in Seaford. We loved experiencing the unique vibes of those Melbourne neighborhoods, as well.

There are a range of accommodations in and around the Melbourne CBD. We recommend starting your search for the perfect place to stay on Booking.com . There, you can search for the exact location, preferred amenities and read fellow traveler reviews.

Some of the top-rated hotels are the Quay West Suites , The Como MGallery by Sofitel and the centrally located Rendezvous Hotel .

We have also found that staying in Airbnb Apartments is often a better value than hotel rooms. This may be especially true for couples or groups traveling together.

How To Get to Melbourne, Australia

Trains at Flinders Street, Melbourne, AU

Most travelers will arrive by plane at the Melbourne International Airport (MEL). To find the best prices on airline tickets , we use SkyScanner . Here we can compare prices, flight times and even set up alerts to score the best fares. To get to the city center from Melbourne airport, visitors can take the SkyBus, a shared shuttle bus or book private transfer .

Once in the city, visitors can use the network of trains, trams and buses that make up the Melbourne public transportation network. Find out more about the system and tickets on the official PTV Website . Rideshares apps, like Uber , are also available in Melbourne.

What To Pack For Your Melbourne Trip

View of Melbourne on Yarra River, Australia

Ready to travel to Melbourne? Great! We have a few final travel tips and packing hacks for your trip Down Under!

Durable Travel Shoes

Our Melbourne Itinerary does include a lot of walking, so make certain you bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes for your vacation. I like to wear lightweight shoes – like these by Columbia – or in summer Reef Flip Flops . Kris is most comfortable in Merrell trail shoes.

Melbourne Weather Appropriate Attire

Melbourne has a temperate subtropical oceanic (and notoriously fickle!) climate. Meaning summers are hot and winters are mild and sometimes rainy (but it rarely gets below freezing). During the spring and summer, there is a high chance of storms and erratic changes in temperature.

Regardless of the time of year of your trip to Melbourne, you will likely want to pack clothing that can be layered. In the summer months, don’t forget sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat – and a packable raincoat or travel umbrella is a good idea, too.

Travel Camera

We think Melbourne is an incredibly photogenic city! Rather than relying on your phone, we recommend upgrading to a DSLR Camera that will take high quality pictures. We always carry a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens – and love it! It is perfect for beginner photographers and an ideal budget camera because it comes bundled with heaps of accessories.

WiFi, Day Pack and Melbourne Map

It’s a much more enjoyable visit when you know where you are going! To stay connected when we travel , we use a GlocalMe Mobile WiFi Hot Spot . It can connect up to 10 devices at one time, which is perfect for families, friends or groups traveling together. You can access data either by using a SIM card or purchasing an eSIM online. As a bonus, it doubles as a power bank, which is perfect for late afternoon boosts when out exploring!

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you will also want a great day bag for keeping all of your essential everyday travel items organized!

While Wi-Fi is great for online maps, checking restaurant reviews and sharing pictures on social media, we also like to carry a paper map. We recommend buying an actual map – like this one – in advance of your trip to Melbourne. Of course, a guidebook for Australia can also be helpful!

Australia Travel Insurance

Trip insurance may be useful in the case of delayed flights or lost luggage , and it can also be handy when travelers get sick or injured abroad. Consider the rates and coverage at World Nomads to insure your trip to Australia.

Start planning your trip to Australia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing ! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

Visiting More of Australia? Good on ya! Be sure to check our complete guides to Sydney , including Bondi and Manly Coastal Walks as well as a day trip to the Blue Mountains .

Get started planning your vacation to Brisbane , Perth , Cairns (including the Great Barrier Reef ) and the stunning shores of the Gold Coast . Cheers!

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Kate Abroad

3 Days In Melbourne Itinerary for 2024

Wondering what to do with 3 days in Melbourne Australia? No worries, this Melbourne 3 day itinerary has you sorted with the best attractions and activities to fill your time.

Spending three days in Melbourne, Australia is the perfect length of time to explore all that this city has to offer. With its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and exquisite food and coffee scene, it doesn’t take long for visitors to fall in love with this cosmopolitan city.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning local, there are countless activities to keep you entertained throughout your stay.

If you are staying in Melbourne for 3 days you’ll need to find somewhere to base yourself. Located just 2 kilometres west of the city centre it’s worth thinking about staying at the Docklands.

Not only is there some great Docklands accommodation , but it puts you within easy reach of the CBD. From here you can catch a tram, train, or even walk into the city centre, you can also catch the ferry to Geelong and Portarlington on the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula.

It’s a good idea to book your room well in advance if you’re visiting Melbourne during the peak summer season from December to February.

However, if you want to avoid the crowds and high hotel prices, consider visiting in the months of October, November, March, or April.

Here is our guide to the top must-see highlights of Melbourne during three days in this amazing city!

Best Things To Do In Melbourne In 3 Days

Here’s the short list of the activities we’d recommend for a 3 day Melbourne holiday If you want to know how to fit them into an itinerary then keep reading.

People watch in Federation Square
Visit St Paul’s Cathedral
Catch a tram at Flinders Street Station
Wander the laneways
Explore Southbank on foot
Eat your way around Queen Victoria Market
Visit the Royal Exhibition Building
Learn about local history at the Melbourne Museum
Tour the iconic MCG
Relax on a Yarra River Cruise
Explore the Docklands district
Act like a pirate on Polly Woodside
Take a trip out to Werribee or Geelong

Melbourne Itinerary 3 Days

Day 1 in melbourne.

Home to many of the city’s attractions, Melbourne’s central business district, is designed in a convenient grid system that makes it easy to navigate.

While it’s possible to get around on foot, the area is quite hilly, so you might want to make use of the free city circle tram as well.

Federation Square

Start your three days in Melbourne at Federation Square and grab your free city map at the visitor information centre.

Known by locals as “Fed Square”, the open-air venue is filled with art galleries, museums, cafes, and bars.

Here, you’ll find ACMI, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, the Koorie Heritage Trust where you can learn about First Nations culture, the National Gallery of Victoria, and the Ian Potter Centre, which features only Australian and Aboriginal art.

Flinders Street Station

Flinders Street Station is undeniably Melbourne’s most renowned building. Not only is it a popular spot for locals to gather before a night out, but its stunning French Renaissance architecture, clock, green dome, and arches make it an unmistakable landmark.

Originally constructed for steam-powered locomotives, this iconic station has stood the test of time and remains a central hub for commuters, travellers, and tourists alike.

With its striking yellow brickwork and prime location in the city centre, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the famous Melbourne landmarks.

Intriguingly, there’s a decaying ballroom on the third floor that only opens its doors to visitors on exclusive dates. If you’re interested in checking it out Open House Melbourne is your best chance at entry, although it may not be available every year.

iconic historic facade of Flinders Street Station Melbourne

St Paul’s Cathedral

Built on the site where the first public Christian service in Melbourne was conducted, St Paul’s Cathedral is a must-visit for those who are interested in the city’s cultural and religious heritage.

This impressive cathedral dates back to 1880 and was built in the gothic style of architecture. You’ll find it opposite Federation Square surrounded by modern buildings.

Interior of St Paul's Cathedral Melbourne

Melbourne Laneways

The laneways of Melbourne are not only known for their street art, but also for the unique shops, cafes, and hole-in-the-wall restaurants you’ll find tucked away in them.

To help find the best spots, consider taking a laneways tour , or even a specialised food or art tour depending on your tastes.

Exploring these alleyways is a must for any visitor to the city. Enjoy a coffee while taking in some incredible street art or pop into one of the many specialty stores that line the narrow pathways.

Hosier Lane is the best-known laneway for graffiti art and there are always loads of people here posing for their Instagram shot.

Other lanes worth checking out include Tattersalls Lane, Union Lane, and AC/DC Lane which is named after the famous Australian rock band of the same name.

For food and coffee head to Degraves Street, Centre Place, or Hardware Lane. But it’s always fun to wander around and discover your own special place.

After a day of sightseeing, Southbank is ideal for relaxing with a drink and a bite to eat. Located on the south side of the Yara River, you’ll find loads of drinking, dining, and entertainment options here.

Some of the more well-known venues include the Melbourne Recital Centre and Crown Casino.

For something a little different try Ponyfish Island, where you can drink cocktails while floating under the Pedestrian Bridge.

Day 2 In Melbourne

Queen victoria market.

Established in the late 1800s, the Queen Victoria Market spreads out across two city blocks on the edge of the CBD. If you love fresh food and bargain hunting then this is a top spot in Melbourne for you.

With its diverse range of family-owned businesses, the market is a haven for food enthusiasts, coffee lovers, and those seeking unique handmade products and souvenirs.

The market is closed on Mondays and Wednesdays and closes early at 2 p.m on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Sunday is the most popular day to visit, and in summer a night market is held on Wednesdays and Sundays featuring live entertainment and food trucks.

exterior of Queen Victoria Market melbourne Australia

Royal Exhibition Building

The Royal Exhibition Building is one of the last purpose-built exhibition pavilions left on the planet.

Located in the Carlton Gardens it was built for the Melbourne International Exhibitions of 1880 and 1888 that introduced Australian industry and technology to the world.

It’s also where the very first Commonwealth Parliament of the Australian Federation was held in 1901.

Today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and various events, exhibitions, and community and cultural festivals are held here throughout the year.

It’s an impressive building with dramatic domes and arches and the beautiful gardens it sits in are worth a stroll through as well.

Melbourne Museum

Also located at the Carlton Gardens, the Melbourne Museum offers a unique blend of natural history and human culture through a range of exhibits.

It was originally set up in the State Library building, but in October 2000, it moved to its current location.

The museum hosts regular events and exhibitions, and visitors can enjoy a documentary or feature film at the onsite IMAX theatre.

One of the “biggest” highlights of the museum is the life size skeleton of a Blue Whale, the largest creature on the planet. It’s also home to one of the largest collections of Aboriginal artefacts in Australia.

dinosaur skeleton inside Melbourne Museum

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Melbournians love their sport and no stadium in the city, or Australia for that matter is more important than the Melbourne Cricket Ground . Able to fit 100,000 people, the stadium is one of the largest in the world, yet it is often filled to capacity even on normal game days.

Visiting the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) , fondly known as “The G”, is a truly local Melbourne experience. As the birthplace of test cricket and Australian Rules Football, this sporting mecca has a rich history and is an integral part of Melbourne culture.

Guided tours offer the chance to explore the inner sanctum, walk on the hallowed turf, and learn about the iconic moments in Australian sporting history that have played out within this stadium.

The National Sports Museum, located within the MCG, is another must-visit spot for sports fans, housing an extensive collection of memorabilia and offering interactive exhibits to engage visitors of all ages.

Yarra River Cruise

A highlight of any visit to Melbourne is a boat cruise along the sparkling Yarra River. Sit back and relax as you see the city’s sights from a new perspective on the water.

Cruise options range from hour-long excursions to special occasion parties, and dinner, or sunset trips. For a unique experience become the captain of your own self-drive boat, no boat license needed.

Day 3 In Melbourne

The docklands.

If you’re staying in the Docklands, or even if you’re not, it’s worth spending time exploring the area.

This waterfront neighbourhood is filled with restaurants, bars, boutiques, and galleries. Take a stroll around the harbour and discover the unusual public art sculptures like the “Cow Up A Tree” and stop in for a coffee at a waterside café.

Afterwards, visit The District an open air shopping centre that is home to many of the Docklands attractions. Here you’ll find ArtVo an interactive 3D art gallery, GlowGolf a unique miniature golf in the dark experience, and the O’Brien Icehouse skating rink.

view of Docklands meburne from above with trees and water

Polly Woodside

For something a little different visit the Polly Woodside one of Australia’s last surviving tall ships.

Originally built in Belfast, Ireland, this remarkable vessel made an impressive 17 trips around the world between 1885 fand 1904. Braving the perilous Cape Horn 16 times.

Today this National Trust tall ship is docked at South Wharf alongside Melbourne’s Yarra River.

Visitors can tour the ship to see the sleeping quarters, ring the bell, and take a look below deck. There’s also a gallery and museum with more information inside the main building.

If you’re travelling with children they’ll love Pirate Sunday where they get to dress up as a pirate, walk the plank, and hunt for treasures.

The Polly Woodside is conveniently located close to many South Wharf and Crown restaurants as well as DFO shopping where you can pick up a bargain.

pirate ship at wharf 3 days in melbourne Australia

Lying just over 30 kilometres from the CBD, Werribee is a quick half hour drive down the highway. It’s often overlooked by tourists, but there are enough attractions in Werribee to keep you busy for a day.

Such as the beautiful Werribee Mansion which offers an insight into life in 19 th century Victoria . Another must-see is the Werribee Open Range Zoo, home to hundreds of exotic animals from around the world.

Wine enthusiasts should not miss out on visiting Shadowfax Winery , a family-run vineyard with an impressive selection of wines and a fabulous restaurant.

Last but not least, the State Rose Garden is ideal for those who love flowers and nature. Here, you can admire the beauty of over 600 varieties of roses while enjoying a picnic on the lush lawns.

Geelong Waterfront

If Werribee doesn’t appeal then one of the fun things to do on a 3 day Melbourne trip is to catch the ferry across the bay to the Geelong Waterfront – especially in summer.

This cosmopolitan area is chock full of restaurants, bars, and cafes, and on a hot day, you can take a dip in the swimming enclosure at Eastern Beach.

While you’re there be sure to explore the heritage-listed promenade and pier, browse the shops, and take a ride on the Giant Skywheel for views all the way to Melbourne.

Alternatively, take a stroll along the Baywalk Bollard Trail and check out over 100 individually designed wooden bollards featuring artwork by a local artist.

FAQ About Visiting Melbourne

3 days in Melbourne is the ideal amount of time to see all the city’s highlights and maybe squeeze in a half-day trip outside of the city.

Yes! Melbourne is possibly the most fun city to visit in Australia and an absolute must on any itinerary.

If you want decent weather but also to avoid the crowds and high hotel prices, consider visiting in the shoulder season months of October, November, March, or April.

Melbourne is known as Australia’s biggest city and as a artsy foodie city with tons of urban culture and the iconic Yarra River.

In Short: Melbourne 3 Day Itinerary

Three days is the perfect amount of time to experience all that this city has to offer. From exploring its bustling CBD laneways filled with street art and cafes, to travelling further afield, or visiting the bustling local markets, there’s something for everyone in Melbourne.

Whether you’re looking to explore art galleries and museums, sample delicious coffee, or just soak up the city’s cool vibes, you won’t be disappointed with a 3 day trip to Melbourne.

For those looking to extend their stay, there are plenty of nearby attractions such as Phillip Island Nature Park , the Great Ocean Road , and the Yarra Valley all within easy reach of Melbourne.

With its diverse offerings and unique culture this city is sure to make for a memorable trip no matter how long you choose to stay.

Audrey is the principal blogger behind Victoria Uncovered . A site that helps people get the most out of their visit to Victoria Australia. Book Lover | Breakfast Nut | Aussie Gal | She’s usually craving coffee.

Australia Travel Resources

Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
Find awesome day tours on Viator and Get Your Guide
Save on Sydney attractions with a Go City Pass
Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
Sort your Australian dollars with a Wise currency card

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3 Days in Melbourne: A Melbourne 3 Day Itinerary

This article on 3 Days in Melbourne: A Melbourne 3 Day Itinerary may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase using these links, I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much for supporting Frugal Frolicker! :)

Oh my goodness is this post long overdue!

You’d think that after 5 years in Australia, 6 months of which I lived in Melbourne, I’d have already shared a Melbourne itinerary on the blog.

The reason why I haven’t until now is that it’s actually really difficult to organize the best bits of Melbourne into an itinerary of must-sees and must-dos. It just isn’t the kind of a city that’s full of tourist attractions to check off your list.

And that’s exactly why Melbourne is such a joy to experience! You can visit this oh-so-liveable city without any agenda, simply following your tastebuds from cafe to restaurant to bar. Or if you’re less of a foodie and more of a street art lover, you can play the game I like to enact where I just chase after colorful murals around town and craft my own little spontaneous street art tour.

These days, whenever I return to Melbourne for a quick visit, I tend to shape my days around whatever new (or tried-and-true favorite) cafes I feel like sampling coffee from, and then fill in the rest of my time in the moment based on how I’m feeling.

I may have moved to Sydney for its beaches and beauty, but I adore Melbourne for its ability to make me more PRESENT. I’m never thinking ahead to what other things I want to see when I’m there, or turning over future blog post ideas in my mind as I do most anywhere I go (’tis the curse of being a travel blogger) – I simply follow my whims and design my days in real time.

Melbourne is a city with a seemingly endless supply of restaurants, bars, brunch spots, and coffee shops – but it’s not just the quantity, it’s the QUALITY of these venues that makes Melbourne shine. You will eat and drink SO WELL in this city and it’ll be the highlight of your trip guaranteed.

I’ve taken a crack at creating a Melbourne 3 day itinerary that I think you’ll enjoy, which includes many of my favorite things in this city (however, I give you full permission to ignore it and just do your own thing).

Planning a trip to Melbourne?

These are the sites I use and recommend for booking travel:

Hotels in Melbourne: Booking.com

Car rental in Melbourne: DiscoverCars.com

Activities in Melbourne: GetYourGuide or Viator

Travel insurance for Australia: Safety Wing or World Nomads

Table of Contents

Day 1: Melbourne CBD

We’re staying central on Day 1 of this Melbourne 3 day itinerary and exploring Melbourne CBD and surrounds.

Coffee & Breakfast

First thing’s first: coffee and breakfast at one of Melbourne’s best cafes. Hit up Seven Seeds in Carlton or Auction Rooms in North Melbourne (both are a quick tram ride away from the city center, or a longer walk). These Melbourne coffee shops have been around for years and are widely considered to be two of the city’s best, which is why I always make a point to stop in at both whenever I visit Melbourne.

Note that there are ALWAYS new cafes popping up around the city that get super trendy for a year (mainly due to Instagram), but personally I’d rather go to these older classics because it’s hugely important to me to be able to count on consistently amazing coffee. You can never go wrong with either option: they have some of the best coffee in Melbourne.

I always love buying a bag of Seven Seeds coffee beans to take home with me. And on my most recent Melbourne trip, I finally sampled the Barista Breakfast at Auction Rooms (a double espresso, a flat white, and a long black). This is a great move if you’re sharing with someone or have the discipline to just take a few sips of each – all of their coffee drinks are SO GOOD. I wouldn’t recommend devouring the whole thing after 2pm like I did though (Sleep? What’s that?).

From late morning to early afternoon, you’ll be frolicking around Melbourne CBD, making your way from the northeast corner of it to the southeast corner by Federation Square.

Here’s what I recommend doing along the way:

Queen Victoria Market

Fun fact: the Queen Vic Market is the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere!

Not only is it a top shopping spot in Melbourne, it’s also somewhat of a foodie mecca with its sweet treats, fresh produce, and plentiful cafes on offer. You might want to stick around to grab lunch here!

Street Art in Melbourne CBD

Lots of Melbourne’s street art is concentrated in the CBD, so you’re bound to spot some without even looking for it.

But if you want a cheatsheet, check out: Queen Street Laneway, Tattersalls Lane, Croft Alley, Blender Lane, Centre Place, and the famous Hosier Lane.

READ MORE IN THIS POST: Where To Find The Best Street Art in Melbourne

Federation Square

Federation Square is more of a cool landmark than anything else, and it’s worth a quick walkaround.

Flinders Street Station

Right across from Fed Square is Flinders Street Station, which is impossible to miss with its distinct yellow architecture. If you’re taking the train at all while in Melbourne, you’re likely to pass through this station.

The Yarra River

One of my favorite things to do in Melbourne is just wander along the banks of the Yarra, particularly during golden hour. If you have time in the afternoon, do this; otherwise you can do your frolicking after the boat trip!

Melbourne River Cruise

Speaking of boat trips, I highly recommend booking a Melbourne River Cruise during your 3 days in Melbourne. Boats run up and down the Yarra and give you some sensational views of the city and its bridges along the way.

I’ve gone with Melbourne River Cruises , which is a 2 hour trip that cruises out to Williamstown and back and costs $29. You also have the option of taking a boat in the opposite direction toward the stadiums and gardens.

READ MORE IN THIS POST: Highlights From A Melbourne River Cruise

Drinks & Dinner

End your day with a drink at Ponyfish Island, a floating bar in the middle of the Yarra. It’s a bit touristy, but the vibe is great and it’s an ideal place to watch the sunset if you time it right.

For dinner, check out the Asian fusion dishes at popular Red Spice Road, or wander into Chinatown for other Asian eats.

Day 2: Northside to Southside

Day 2 of this Melbourne 3 day itinerary mirrors what a typical day in my old Melbourne life would look like. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Kick off the day northside exploring some of Melbourne’s most colorful neighborhoods: Fitzroy, Collingwood, and Abbotsford.

Depending on which suburb you start in, I’ve got a few options for coffee and breakfast: Industry Beans (Fitzroy), Proud Mary (Collingwood), or Three Bags Full (Abbotsford).

My go-to has always been Proud Mary – like the cafes I recommended on Day 2, Proud Mary’s a longtime Melbourne favorite (i.e. very legit) and their coffee is always incredible. Industry Beans is more of an insta-sensation, and I usually order my coffee beans from them online to have shipped to me in Sydney. 3BF I’ve yet to try, but they have hundreds of stellar reviews so I feel pretty good about recommending them.

Fitzroy & Collingwood

Spend the morning wandering around Fitzroy and Collingwood, part of Melbourne’s hipster hub and absolutely brimming with murals on every other block. There’s a high concentration of street art in this part of town with new pieces popping up frequently. And if you like quirky shops, art galleries, and ethnic eats, you’ll have plenty to occupy yourself with here.

Be sure to pop in for a drink at Naked For Satan , a venue that’s universally loved by Melburnians and visitors alike for it’s rooftop views and infused vodka drinks (I’m not much of a drinker, yet I can’t even count how many times I’ve been to this bar over the years. It’s always the place people suggest meeting for catchups or dates, it seems!).

For lunch, you’ve got a healthy and an unhealthy option:

Option A is Easey’s , where you can nom on burgers from inside a train carriage set on a rooftop in Collingwood. Yep, only in Melbourne! Even if you don’t eat here, it’s worth passing by just to glimpse the spectacle of train cars on top of a 5-story building.

Option B is Lentil As Anything in the Abbotsford Convent, serving all-vegan food typically buffet-style. Meals are donation-based, and there’s often live music and other events on at the venue while you dine. It’s got a really warm, cozy vibe to it – and plus, the convent grounds are pretty beautiful on their own.

Brighton to St. Kilda

Come afternoon, hop on the train to the southside – Brighton, to be specific.

Melbourne isn’t known for its beaches like Sydney is, but it does have a few worth noting. Brighton Beach is famed for its colorful bathing boxes in the sand, definitely a must-do for photos.

From here, there’s a coastal pathway you can walk all the way up to St. Kilda Beach, which should take you 1.5-2 hours depending on how often you stop.

St. Kilda is the unofficial backpacker HQ in Melbourne, so consider yourself warned! Nevertheless, it’s worth coming here at least once for sunset – not just for the daily spectacle itself, but also to catch the little penguins which are only really out at this time of day.

For southside dinner and drinks, you can either hang around St. Kilda or head up to South Yarra. In general, both suburbs are full of young folk and social venues, which may or may not be your scene. I think it’s worth lingering for the evening just so you can compare this part of Melbourne to the northern part you saw earlier in the day.

There are plenty of good restaurants in this area: try St. Luja or Republica in St. Kilda, or anywhere on Chapel Street in South Yarra.

Day 3: Cycling

If you have a third day in Melbourne, spend it on a bike as many Melburnians do. Apart from the coffee, the other thing I miss the most from living in Melbourne is how bike friendly the city is. There are so many bike paths and designated bike lanes on the streets that it feels very safe to be cycling here. And SO many people do!

I once hired a bike from The Humble Vintage in Collingwood and can definitely recommend their quality stylish bikes, but feel free to get a bike from another vendor if it’s more convenient.

Two wheels obtained, head north on the Upfield bike path which runs alongside the train line. There’s a lot of cool street art works along the route and minimal vehicular traffic.

This area is definitely not short on quality cafes, but my picks are Wide Open Road in Brunswick or East Elevation in Brunswick East.

Brunswick is the hipster heart of Melbourne. The northside in general reminds me a lot of Brooklyn, but if Fitzroy is Williamsburg, Brunswick is Bushwick. It’s a bit less polished and a bit more… colorful, let’s say.

Feel free to wander around the suburb on foot or by bike, whatever you fancy!

READ MORE IN THIS POST: Things To Love About Brunswick, Melbourne

Cycling Merri Creek Trail & Yarra Trail

From Brunswick, hop onto the Merri Creek Trail with your bike and pedal south along the creek until it turns into the Main Yarra Trail.

You’ll forget you’re even in Australia’s second-largest city until the trail curves in toward the city skyline and you’re riding along the Yarra River. These trails are such an oasis, full of greenery and trees and even farmland in one part. It’s the perfect thing to do in Melbourne if you’re craving some nature, quiet, and physical activity.

READ MORE IN THIS POST: Cycling Melbourne Is The Best Way To See This City

Once the bike trail hits Burnley, stop off and head for lunch at Serotonin Eatery , the “world’s first happiness centre”, aka an incredible cafe with healthy, inventive dishes and drinks which I discovered on my latest trip to Melbs.

This place is relatively new to the scene, but I absolutely love what they’re about. One look at their menu and it’s clear that holistic health is their jam – they even offer free community yoga classes, how cool!

NGV & Royal Botanic Gardens

Depending on the time and on your interests, you can end your epic bike ride with a wander around the Royal Botanic Gardens, or a visit to the nearby National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). If you’re at all into art, this is THE best place to see it in Melbourne.

Eureka Skydeck

Aim to be at Eureka Skydeck in time for sunset, and plan to linger afterwards so you can watch the city get dark and sparkly. This is one of the best views in Melbourne at 300 metres above street level and well worth the $25 ticket (or $23 if you buy online).

READ MORE IN THIS POST: Eureka Skydeck: Melbourne From the 88th Floor

For your last night in Melbourne, hit up the laneway bars in the CBD: Eau De Vie for whiskey, Gin Palace for gin, Croft Institute for a science lab theme (to name just a few). There are heaps of cool bars in the city so your best bet is just to wander and see what looks good to you.

As for dinner, have a look at this extensive list of the so-called best restaurants in Melbourne CBD. Then report back and let me know which one I should try the next time I’m in Melbourne! ;)

Where to Stay in Melbourne

I stayed Space Hotel in a dorm room back in my backpacker days and loved it then; more recently, I returned and got to experience a private room this time. And yup, still love it!

Space Hotel is centrally located in the CBD, which makes it super easy to get most anywhere mentioned in this post. It’s got a hip modern vibe and a smattering of common areas for various uses (think fitness center, lounge, game room, and cinema).

Basically, stay at Space Hotel if you’re on a budget but still wanna feel fancy and abundant. It’s more of a flashpacker hostel than a typical backpacker hostel.

CLICK TO BOOK A BED OR ROOM AT SPACE HOTEL

My absolute FAVORITE aspect of Space Hotel is its rooftop space. I loved starting my morning on the roof with coffee and reading, and catching sunset over the CBD skyline later in the day. My only regret is not packing a bathing suit to wear in the rooftop hot tub! Don’t be silly like me and be sure to pack your swimsuit if you stay here.

Dorm beds start at around 33AUD and private rooms start at around 75 AUD (prices vary slightly seasonally).

Thank you to Space Hotel for hosting me on my last Melbourne trip. Note that I paid to stay there on a past trip and was already a happy customer of theirs before they approached me for this partnership. Note that all opinions expressed here and elsewhere on this blog are my unbiased own, and are uninfluenced by any gifts or incentives I may receive.

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Melbourne Travel Guide

Melbourne is the capital of Victoria, Australia, and one of the country’s largest cities. As a vibrant and multicultural city, Melbourne offers numerous breathtaking attractions and activities, as well as natural landscapes that draw visitors from around the world. Whether it’s captivating architecture, thriving arts and cultural scenes, or unique culinary culture, Melbourne promises an unforgettable journey for tourists.

If you have only one day for a brief stopover, you can refer to the article “ How to Spend One Day in Melbourne’s CBD .”

Day 1: Explore the Melbourne city

Flinders street railway station.

Flinders Street Railway Station, also known as Flinders Street Station, is a railway station located in the center of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. As one of the busiest transportation hubs in Australia, it is not only the main transportation hub in the center of Melbourne, but also the largest passenger station in the country.

As a landmark building in the center of Melbourne, Flinders Street Railway Station is a must-visit for tourists. Here, you can appreciate architectural styles from different eras and feel the charm of Australian railway history. In addition, it is also the main transportation hub to other areas of Melbourne, making it easy for you to visit surrounding cities and attractions.

Melbourne Skydeck

The Melbourne Skydeck is a must-visit attraction. This architectural marvel is located on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower, towering at an impressive height of 297 meters (975 feet). It is truly breathtaking. As you step into the Skydeck, you’ll be greeted with a 360-degree panoramic view of the city, stretching endlessly. With floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor terrace, you’ll feel like you’re floating above the clouds.

When you gaze out from the Melbourne Skydeck, you’ll witness the full splendor of this city. The bustling streets below are vibrant and alive. From famous landmarks like Federation Square and Flinders Street Station to the distant Dandenong Ranges, the entire panorama unfolds before your eyes.

Melbourne’s Street Art Melbourne’s street art is a major highlight of the city. Especially in places like Hosier Lane and other art alleys, you’ll be captivated by the vibrant graffiti and murals. These art pieces showcase the creativity of the younger generation and their passion for free expression,

Infusing the city’s corners with vibrancy and allure. Each artwork carries the artist’s unique style and perspective on the world, allowing you to gain deeper insights into Melbourne’s culture and society.

Wandering through Melbourne’s street art alleys, you’ll feel the fusion of art and life. The artworks here are not just decorations; they serve as a wellspring of inspiration for the city. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply interested in urban culture, these art pieces will provide you with a rich experience and endless inspiration.

Old Melbourne Gaol

Old Melbourne Gaol is one of the most popular attractions in Melbourne, this ancient prison is full of history and culture, allowing people to travel back in time.

At the same time, it is a place that makes people feel suffocated, wanting to see the real life of prisoners and understand the history. Try to imagine what kind of stories this small space holds.

If you want to delve deeper into the stories of the old prison, you can participate in a night tour led by professional actors. In the darkness, you will listen to the true stories about prisoners, prison officers, and executioners, feeling deep fear and excitement.

In addition to history and culture, the old prison also offers many interesting activities and exhibitions, allowing you to fully experience the richness of this place. If you want a journey full of excitement and adventure, don’t miss this opportunity, visit the old prison, and experience a true historical adventure.

Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market, located in the heart of Melbourne, Australia, is an iconic landmark that not only captures the hearts of the locals but also attracts the attention of countless visitors. This market is not only a melting pot of Melbourne’s culture. But also a true reflection of its diverse population.

The Queen Victoria Market is renowned for its abundant fresh produce. As you step into the market, the vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables immediately catch your eye. They are only visually appealing. But not also tantalizing your taste buds with their freshness. Here, you can find a wide variety of agricultural products, ranging from local specialties to international ingredients.

Whether you’re in pursuit of fashionable boutique items, unique home decor, or handmade crafts, the Queen Victoria Market is a paradise for you. It offers a collection of various goods, from vintage treasures to modern designs, catering to different personal tastes.

Upon entering the market, you’ll feel a special atmosphere as if you’re wandering through a labyrinth of shopping delights. You can stroll among the myriad of stalls with a sense of treasure hunting enjoyment. The products here are infused with the inspiration and creativity of designers, each showcasing a unique style and taste. Whether you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind gift or looking to find a distinctive accessory for yourself, this market will fulfill your desires.

Brighton Beach

It’s safe to say that Brighton Beach is one of Melbourne’s most iconic destinations thanks to its distinctive row of Victorian-era colourful house, which make the perfect backdrop to spend a sunny summer day

If you like the beach, you can take pictures as a souvenir of this trip an ordinary but not to be missed attraction ha-ha

Day 2: Melbourne Yarra Valley Day Trip

Yarra valley.

The Yarra Valley, located in Victoria, Australia, is a true gem renowned for its breathtaking scenery and world-class wines. It is a treasure trove that captivates countless travelers with its magnificent natural beauty and serene atmosphere. Whether you’re in pursuit of culinary delights, indulging in fine wines, or simply reveling in the wonders of nature, the Yarra Valley fulfills your every desire. Prepare to be enchanted as you embark on a journey that will touch your soul and leave you with cherished memories.

The Yarra Valley is not only renowned for its wines but also a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a tantalizing array of local produce. From artisanal cheeses to organic fruits and more, the region tells a captivating story of its abundant agricultural heritage and the admirable farmers behind it

Domaine Chandon

Yarra Valley’s Domaine Chandon is an enchanting winery that evokes a rich tapestry of emotions. Nestled in the outskirts of Melbourne, this captivating destination is renowned for its unique winemaking craftsmanship and breathtaking landscapes. Within this alluring haven, you’ll have the opportunity to taste a range of meticulously crafted, high-quality sparkling wines while immersing yourself in a romantic ambiance shared with your loved ones.

Domaine Chandon is the sister winery of the renowned French Champagne house, Moët & Chandon, and boasts over three decades of winemaking history. Here, expansive vineyards and verdant grapevines create a wondrous sensation of unity with nature. Sit outdoors and luxuriate in the slow-paced embrace of life as you savor the beauty that surrounds you.

Yering station winery

The Yering Station Winery in Melbourne is not just a winery; it is a treasure trove brimming with culture and history. You can embark on a journey to this enchanting place and delve into the winemaking process while immersing yourself in the local traditions and stories. The above two wineries have their own characteristics, If you have a good drinker, it is another matter

Yarra valley dairy

The region is renowned for its dairy farming, where the fertile land provides lush pastures and a mild climate, creating excellent conditions for milk production. After a well-deserved rest from wine tasting, choosing the perfect accompaniment—”cheese”—is a harmonious pairing. Each dairy product is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who are passionate about their craft.

They insist on using fresh, high-quality milk and employ traditional methods to ensure the utmost quality and flavor of their products. Through their masterful skills and unwavering attention to detail, the dairy producers of the Yarra Valley create unique flavors and textures that are truly exceptional.

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

In the workshop, you’ll find a wide array of chocolate choices that cater to your preferences, from traditional dark chocolate to innovative fruit-infused creations. Whether you’re gifting someone special or treating yourself, the chocolates here are an incredibly emotional and delicious gift.

For ice cream lovers, the Yarra Valley Chocolate Workshop and Ice Cream Shop will never disappoint. The ice cream here is luxuriously creamy, with a variety of flavors to satisfy your cravings. Whether you prefer classic tastes or have a bold spirit to explore new flavors, you’ll find the perfect choice here.

Day 3: Great Ocean Road

As one of Australia’s most famous self-drive routes, the Great Ocean Road in Melbourne winds its way like a poetic gallery. Stretching over 300 kilometers, this coastal route leads you into the embrace of nature, allowing you to embark on an emotional journey amidst magnificent landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or a traveler in search of inner tranquility, the Great Ocean Road will leave you spellbound.

The Great Ocean Road is a gathering place of natural wonders, where you find yourself surrounded by grand and awe-inspiring scenery. Along the way, coastal cliffs, picturesque beaches, and lush forests become a part of your journey. You’ll witness towering sea cliffs, crashing waves, and an endless coastline. Whether it’s the rising sun or the lingering sunset, the road creates a romantic and majestic atmosphere.

The journey is enriched by a wealth of historical and cultural sites along the Great Ocean Road. During your trip, you can visit a number of historic towns and villages and immerse yourself in the rich history behind Melbourne’s Great Ocean Road. Explore these towns and you’ll gain insight into the colonial era and experience how Australia’s early settlers lived.

Melbourne One Day Trip

5 best beaches in sydney – famously stunning coastline.

Visit Melbourne with the ultimate Melbourne Trip Planner

Things to do in Melbourne Melbourne Travel Guide Melbourne Trip Planner

Melbourne is a top destination for travelers in Australia who want to experience something different and maybe even more refined than their barbecuing beach holiday to the coast. While many destinations in Australia are known for their pristine beaches and blistering hot weather, Melbourne has a character that's hard to match. Whether you're a culture vulture or someone who appreciates the finer things in life, you'll fall head over heels in love with this unforgettable destination. Boasting a rich cultural history as well as world-famous events and exhibitions, it doesn't get any better than this. Reveling in vibrant laneways, trendy neighborhoods, and a sophisticated foodie scene; Melbourne offers something for everyone to explore! This Melbourne trip planner will help you sort out your Melbourne itineraries, what to pack, the best time to visit Melbourne, and a lot more.

Best Time To Visit Melbourne

Melbourne is a great city to visit but not everyone can decide when to go. If you are visiting for the first time, you might want to know when is the best time to visit. This city experiences hot and sunny summers from December through February, which is when most tourists travel there. But it can get quite stuffy and stifling in the summer months. The best times for a visit are March through May and September through November, which tends to be favorable conditions in terms of temperature with fewer crowds across the board!

Read more about the best time to visit Melbourne .

Melbourne Itineraries

Depending on how long you're in Melbourne for - whether it's just a day, 3 or 5 days, we have the perfect itineraries crafted for you. Go through these Melbourne itineraries and plan your stay well in advance!

If this is your first time traveling to Melbourne, we know you'd love some help planning your daily itineraries. Apart from the basic planning (flight tickets, visa, accommodation etc.), you'll need to consider your day-to-day activities - where to go, what to see, how to get there, and more. But fret not, for we are here to help.

Melbourne 1-Day Itinerary

Royal Botanic Garden

Shrine of Remembrance

National Gallery of Victoria

SEA Life Melbourne

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Melbourne Zoo

Eureka/Melbourne Skydeck

Yarra River Cruise

IceBar Melbourne

Melbourne 3-day itinerary.

Flinders Street Station

Royal Botanic Gardens

Mornington Peninsula

Breakfast at Queen Victoria Market

Packing For Melbourne

With a huge range of things to do, there's something for everyone in Melbourne. But how do you plan your Melbourne adventure? A lot of people do not know what they should pack and what they need to see. Melbourne is a place that has no limits when it comes to fashion. You will need some warm and fuzzy coats for those cool nights which might come about after the sun has gone down, but you should also bring your swimsuits in case you have time for a quick swimming session as well! Don’t forget to pack your boots, overcoat, and a few dainty winter accessories to compete with Melbourne’s moody weather.

Travel Packing Checklist

Where to stay in melbourne.

Melbourne is a city that has so much to offer. There are many different neighborhoods in Melbourne, each with its unique characteristics. If you are looking for a city that has a lot of green space, St. Kilda is the place for you. St. Kilda is one of the adventurous neighborhoods in Melbourne. It is a township located right near the ocean and boasts plenty of fresh seafood restaurants, trendy bars, and picturesque cafes. There are also many stunning old buildings, famous theaters (such as the Palais Theatre), and festivals that happen throughout the year like Viva! If you want to explore the arts, Fitzroy is the place for you. If you want to explore the nightlife, Southbank is the place for you. Melbourne has a lot to offer and all of these neighborhoods are worth exploring.

Accommodation on a Budget

Melbourne is a great city to visit, but it can be expensive to stay in Melbourne for a long period. There are budget-friendly accommodations with included breakfast and access to kitchens. Some of the cheap hotels in Melbourne are Oaks On Collins, Brady Hotels Central Melbourne, Atlantis Hotel Melbourne, YHA Melbourne Central, and The Victoria Hotel.

Melbourne is a city that has a lot to offer. Whether you are looking for some late-night food or want to go out and see some live music, Melbourne has it all. One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Melbourne has gorgeous cafes and bars on every street. You’ll be greeted by the kindest, most open-minded people you’ve ever met; a melting pot of multiculturalism just like Australia itself. The Toff In Town, Bar Ampere, Loop Project Space & Bar, Cabinet Bar, Crown Melbourne, and Queen Victoria Night Markets are some of the notable names where you will get the experience the amazing nightlife of Melbourne.

Shopping Hub

Melbourne is a bustling city with so many things to do and see. Shopping is also one of the things that many people enjoy doing in Melbourne. There are so many unique shops and a wide variety of items to choose from. It's easy to get lost in the crowd, but it's also easy to have a good time. Bourke Street Mall, Queen Victoria Market, Chadstone Shopping Center, Melbourne Emporium, Melbourne Central, Brunswick Street, and Sydney Road are some places to shop till you drop!

Kiss of Luxury

Melbourne has a lot of great restaurants, but it can be hard to decide where to go. In Melbourne, you can have the best of both worlds because there are many options for every budget. The best part about dining in Melbourne is that there are so many different kinds of food. There are restaurants with American, Italian, and Thai food, and more. The city also has a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options like Cutler & Co, MoVida, Attica, Rockpool Bar & Grill, Dinner by Heston, and The Carlton Wine Room.

Getting Around In Melbourne

Melbourne is a city with many attractions, which is why it can be difficult to get around. You can always rely on the public transport system and hop on a tram, train, or bus. To get to your destination quicker, you can purchase a Myki card, which will allow you to travel around the city using public transport. If you don't want to carry around a wallet or purse, you can also purchase a Myki card that has a built-in chip that you can swipe when you board the tram or train. To start your ride, tap your card on the reader when you board your chosen form of transport. Do make sure you tap off so that your fare is calculated correctly and you don't get charged any extra money.

Melbourne Travel Tips & Hacks

Melbourne is a beautiful city with a lot of things to do. You can walk around the city, visit some of the amazing museums, or get out and explore the surrounding areas. There are many things to do in Melbourne that you might not know about, so here are some Melbourne travel tricks and hacks.

If you are visiting Melbourne for the first time, try to plan your trip during a weekday so that you can avoid the busy weekend crowds.
If you need to travel around the city by public transport, make sure you have a map and know where you are going.
When it comes to food, Melbourne is a great place to try out new cuisines. Try something new and find your favorite!
Make sure you bring some extra cash with you because Melbourne has a lot of great shopping opportunities.
Melbourne is a very bike-friendly city so if you don't have your bike, rent one for the day!
Use your Myki card while boarding public transport. One can easily recharge it on the go and it’s convenient too.
Pack light and be ready for four seasons as the weather in Melbourne can be extremely moody.
Embark on your journey early to get free train rides.
If you’re headed to South Australia or a place known as an epicurean capital, then you should look forward to finding some free food. If you time it just right, you could end up getting a bucket load of goodies from brands looking to advertise their products in hopes of reaching the people most likely to enjoy them.
As a traveler, always keep with you at all times your passport and credit or debit cards. Also, remember to take note of the hotel or hostel's official address and contact details so that you can find your way back later.

5 Best Day Trips From Melbourne

Melbourne is a city that is popular with tourists, but many hidden gems are waiting to be discovered. Yarra Valley is famous for its wine production and it is also home to many wineries. It is a beautiful drive through the countryside and you will be able to experience the beautiful scenery and nature. There are plenty of wineries to visit along the way, so make sure you have your camera ready to capture all the amazing sights. One of the best day trips from Melbourne is the Great Ocean Road. The Great Ocean Road is a scenic drive that will take you through the twelve Apostles, limestone caves, and the Twelve Apostles Lighthouse. These are some of the places that you should include in your Melbourne itinerary.

Check out our list of 5 best day trips from Melbourne :

FAQs: Melbourne Trip Planner

Is melbourne worth visiting.

Melbourne is a bustling city with so much to offer. From the amazing food, shopping, and nightlife, to the beautiful architecture and stunning beaches, Melbourne is a city that anyone would be lucky to visit.

What is the best time to visit Melbourne?

The best time to visit Melbourne is from November to February when the weather is cooler and the locals are out enjoying the outdoors.

What are the top things to do in Melbourne?

One can wander through Melbourne’s laneways, explore vibrant art and culture scenes, discover the city’s Aboriginal culture and embrace the eccentric nightlife of Melbourne. Plan your Melbourne itineraries judiciously before you pack your bags and set upon the journey!

What is the cheapest way to get around Melbourne?

The tram is the cheapest, most convenient, and most-popular mode of transportation in Melbourne.

What should you pack for Melbourne?

While packing for Melbourne, make sure you have a balance of warm and lightweight clothes in your bag. Sundresses or skirts, cotton trousers, sandals, comfortable walking shoes, sunhat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are must-haves while packing for Melbourne.

Which is the best place to stay in Melbourne?

St. Kilda is one of the adventurous neighborhoods and the best place to stay in Melbourne.

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Amulya Chintaluri

Amulya's love for travelling was a natural consequence of her moving around so much as a child. Throw in her love for writing into the mix, and there's no better way to spend her time. A person who collects hobbies like Infinity Stones, she loves reading, sketching, drawing, painting, dry pressing flowers, music, cooking, eating cake, watching TV and sleeping.

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Melbourne 3 day itinerary — how to spend 3 days in melbourne & what to do in melbourne for 3 days.

Melbourne – the largest city in Victoria state, the second largest city in Australia after Sydney and one of the most livable places in the world. Thanks to owns the magnificent architectural works, Melbourne prides itself on a harmonious combination of ancient and modern features. Parks and gardens, beautiful roads, and a vibrant multi-ethnic community make Melbourne become one of Australia’s most attractive destinations. Dubbed as the city of “Four seasons in one day”, so you can traveling to Melbourne all year round. Are you planning a trip to Melbourne during this holiday season but do not know where to start? Let’s check out our suggested Melbourne 3 day itinerary on how to spend 3 days in Melbourne and what to do in Melbourne for 3 days to find out the answer!

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People walking along the Yarra River in Melbourne Australia

Take time to explore the cafes, bars or shops hidden in the alleys in a busy, bustling city. Take a walk along the river and breathe the fresh air from Southbank and visit Federation Square, experience the creative coffee culture.

shire mornington peninsula melbourne thing to do attractions (1)

A cruise down the Yarra River, wandering on the grass, and visiting the famous lakes at the Royal Botanic Gardens is also a great idea when coming to Melbourne. The varied lands from upstream South Yarra to the beaches of St. Kilda or Fitzroy headland give you new and energetic experiences.

It would be great if after the journey above, you spend time visiting the wineries, galleries, and entertainment at the golf course of the Mornington Peninsula.

You can start from the exciting alleyways in the vibrant city of Melbourne to St Kilda Bay. Afterwards, get ready for a trip straight to the Mornington Peninsula and explore wineries and spend relaxing moments at the coastal villages.

Melbourne 3 day itinerary — Day 1: Discover Melbourne city center

melbourne itinerary 7 days blog 7 days in melbourne21

In the morning, get up early to start your Melbourne tour by taking the City Circle Tram tram around the city without worrying about the price. This is one of the free trams in the city tourism conservation and introduction program. City Circle Tram has an old style design, painted in dark brown with yellow borders and golden letters. This tram runs through Melbourne’s main streets such as Flinders, Spring, Latrobe and Spencer Streets, every 10 minutes with a trip.

You’ll go to visit Melbourne attractions not to be missed such as St Paul’s Cathedral, Parliament House and the Royal Exhibition Building. Then get off the tram at Flagstaff Station, from here you are just a five–minute walk to Melbourne Market – a famous tourist destination in Melbourne with a diverse and rich local cuisine.

To recharge for your next city adventure, buy a cup of coffee and some snacks to eat along the way before returning to the City Circle Tram to getting to Federation Square. The site is famous for its liberal architectural style, in stark contrast to the imposing Victorian and Gothic buildings surroundings. Only with the bold and angular structures in Federation Square have created a tourist attraction not to be missed.

Once the day’s sunshine has softened on the patios, it’s time to take a stroll around the cobbled streets of Melbourne. Melbourne’s cobbled lanes are a mecca of coffee shops, small shops selling extremely unique clothes and items. Here you can find special souvenirs, or enjoy special dishes with culinary tastes from around the world.

You can also stop by at the Royal Botanic Gardens – a tourist destination not to be missed when traveling in Melbourne. Stretching along the Yarra River, the gardens are beautifully designed with a selection of flora from all over the world and Australia’s signature plant species. Small flora, such as cacti, herbs and native tropical plants, are planted among the vast grasslands. You just need to bring a book, prepare a picnic and spend time relaxing for yourself in this place.

When you’re hungry, head to Little Bourke Street to tasting Chinese food for dinner. End your day in downtown Melbourne with the melodious sounds of jazz at a performance at Bennetts Lane.

Supper Inn Chinese Restaurant melbourne22

What to do in Melbourne for 3 days — Day 2: Discover interesting life on the banks of the Yarra River

Melbourne was founded on the banks of the Yarra River of Australia in 1835, creating opportunities for the first city settlers. Today, the Yarra River becomes a famous entertainment and playing area in Melbourne. Along the river banks are public picnic and barbecue areas, fishing pier, bicycles and pedestrian trails that are commonly used by both Melbourne residents and visitors.

Start your day at the famous breakfast restaurant Two Birds One Stone , enjoy a ricotta cake covered with creamy sauce, syrup, baked with sunflower seeds to help you recharge for your upcoming trip to explore Melbourne.

Next, you can visit Prahran market – the cheap market of Melbourne. Here you’ll find some gourmet food, bargain-bought clothes and all sorts of merchandise, along with troubadours and the bustle of the locals. From here you only take 15 walk to St Kilda beach – located in the south of downtown Melbourne. St. Beach Kilda has almost no wave, so visitors can relax without worry. If you don’t want to swim, you can take a walk on St. Kilda pier, which stretching deep into the bay and at the end of the pier had a gazebo and a pretty little kiosk. From the pier, visitors can take beautiful pictures of the sea and the Melbourne skyline.

From St Kilda Beach, take the tram to return to the city center. The afternoon is a good time for you to visit Australia’s oldest exhibition – the National Gallery of Victoria. It has a fixed rich collection of more than 66.000 works of art from Europe, Asia, the Americas and Oceania. Admiring the sculptures, drawings, paintings and antiques created by international and local artisans.

National Gallery of Victoria melbourne blog melbourne travel blog melbourne travel guide blog (1)

If you want to explore more aspects of Melbourne, take a yacht on the Yarra River or kayak on the river. The cruise will take you through the city’s fascinating attractions such as Federation Square, Princes Walk, Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Lower Promenade, Crown Casino and Westgate Bridge.

3 days in Melbourne — Day 3: Exploring Mornington Peninsula

Rent a self–driving car from Melbourne and go to the Mornington Peninsula in the southeast of Melbourne – the capital of Victoria state, about an hour from the south of the city center. This is considered to be Australia’s summer paradise, and is a favorite holiday spot for Australians on the weekends. Unlike many other tourist attractions, you can spend a week on the Mornington peninsula to experience without getting bored because there are so many interesting things waiting for you to explore.

Imagine the moments of strolling along Sorrento Ocean to Portsea, stopping by galleries, visiting big hotels and cafes with impressive designs.

In the Mornington Peninsula there are many beautiful and highly safe beaches located in Port Philip Bay and the bays in Franston such as Mount Martha, Dromana, Safety Beach, Point Leo, Flinders, Portsea, Sorrento. After immerse yourseft in the sea, you can lie on the sand to sunbathe, the beaches of the Mornington Peninsula are always full of sunlight, so you can take care of your skin.

In addition, tourists can also participate in sea sports such as swimming, snorkeling, sailing. Another special feature is that on the beaches of Mornington Peninsula, there are always beautiful wooden houses with many colors so that tourists can change clothes, as well as avoid the intense sun. Nowadays, these houses have been renovated into extremely strange beach resorts.

For explore and adventure lovers, take a swim with dolphins or watch and observe them from a yacht. On the verdant hill of the peninsula, you’ll see the Portsea, a separated amusement park for the wealthy and famous of Melbourne, a series of luxurious mansions lining the cliffs.

After all, drive to Red Hill and enjoy a romantic dinner at the restaurant, visit the wineries and delight in picking the berries at the farms.

montalto-vineyard-and-olive-grove_mp_r_1325943_1150x863

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Melbourne you can refer to

Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL) Express Transfers by SkyBus
Shared Melbourne Airport Transfers (MEL) for Melbourne
Private Melbourne Airport (MEL) Transfers for Melbourne
Avalon Airport (AVV) Express Transfer by SkyBus for Melbourne City
Private Melbourne Airport (MEL) Transfers for Melbourne CBD
Private Avalon Airport (AVV) Transfers for Melbourne
Great Ocean Road Day Tour: 12 Apostles, The Loch Ard Gorge and More
Morning City Sights Half Day Tour
Melbourne Morning City Sightseeing Tour
Great Ocean Road and Twelve Apostles Day Tour from Melbourne
Grampians National Park Day Tour from Melbourne‎
iVenture Melbourne Unlimited Attractions Pass
Melbourne City Sightseeing
iVenture Melbourne Flexi Attractions Pass
Greyhound Australia Hop On Hop Off Bus Pass from Melbourne (3 Months)

Are you looking for more Melbourne travel guide and top things to do in Melbourne: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Melbourne travel blog — The fullest Melbourne city guide for a budget trip to Melbourne for the first-timers.

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How to Spend 3 Days in Melbourne (2024 Itinerary)
Table of Contents. 3 Days in Melbourne Itinerary. Day One - Exploring the CBD. Check out Flinders St Station and Federation Square. Have a Poke Around the Laneways and Markets. Tour the MCG. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria. Check out the Shrine of Remembrance and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
3 days in Melbourne
Day 1: City centre and South Bank. Melbourne's cool, quirky character permeates through the entire city - its colourful laneways, trendy cafés and legendary live music venues. Here's how to get yourself acquainted with Melbourne.
3 Days in Melbourne: The Perfect Itinerary
Day trips from Melbourne. Alternatively, if you'd like to get out of the city on one of the days during your 3-day Melbourne trip, swap one of the days above for a day trip from Melbourne. You can rent a car to do any of these day trips, or below I've linked some day tours you can book.
The BEST 3 days Melbourne Itinerary (perfect for first timers)
This is the perfect 3 day Melbourne itinerary, especially if you're visiting for the first time. There's so much to do and see here that I can promise you, it won't be your last visit. It's famous for its street art, coffee culture and all-round relaxed alternative feel. With so much to fit into just 3 days in Melbourne, it can be a bit ...
A 3 day Melbourne itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip
Sample 3 day Melbourne itinerary. Here is a sample 3 day Melbourne itinerary to help you plan your own trip to this incredible city. There is a lot to do in Melbourne, but in our honest opinion a lot of the city is about exploring, eating, and drinking. 3 days in Melbourne -Day 1
3 Days In Melbourne: Perfect Melbourne Itinerary!
A 3-day Melbourne itinerary might be a small amount of time to enjoy the city, but you can cram a lot into this short space of time. Let's dive in! ... Great Ocean Road - The Great Ocean Road is located outside of the city limits, but it's an ideal place for a day trip from Melbourne or as part of a journey from Adelaide to Melbourne. The ...
3 Days in Melbourne: Everything You Should Know
Melbourne Itinerary: Day 1 Morning: Breakfast at Queen Victoria Market. Commence your Melbourne trip at Queen Victoria Market, a bustling city market home to more than 600 small businesses.It has been the city's heart and soul for around 140 years, with an abundance of fresh produce, unique, handmade products, clothing, souvenirs, and great food and coffee shops.
3 Day Melbourne Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide
See this Ultimate Guide to the perfect 3 Day Melbourne Itinerary. Melbourne is known for being the most unique city in all of Australia! See this Ultimate Guide to the perfect 3 Day Melbourne Itinerary. ... At $38 AUD for adults when booked online with Klook, it's definitely worth the money for this Melbourne day trip. If you're looking to ...
3 days in Melbourne: an itinerary for first-time visitors
Day 3: Great Ocean Road. On your final day in Melbourne, embark on a day trip to the Great Ocean Road - one of Australia's most scenic coastal drives. Book a guided tour in advance or rent a car for the journey. If you intend to drive from Melbourne, the transit to the Great Ocean Road takes about three hours - so an early start is essential.
MELBOURNE Itinerary (How to Spend 3 Days)
Day 2: Discovering Melbourne's Cultural Highlights. On your second day in Melbourne, immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural scene. From art galleries to museums and iconic landmarks, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Start your day with a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), Australia's oldest and most visited ...
3 Days in Melbourne Itinerary • The Wanderbug
Itinerary: 3 Days in Melbourne. Melbourne is Australia's second largest city and is considered Australia's capital of food, culture and sport. It might not have a world-famous icon like the Opera House, but there is much more to do in Melbourne beyond the famous street art and cafe culture. If you had just three days in Melbourne, I'd ...
Melbourne Itinerary: 3 Days in Melbourne, Australia
Planning a Melbourne Itinerary is both exciting and challenging - but we have made it easy for you! We have created a perfect 3-Day Melbourne Itinerary that features the best sights. Plus, we venture beyond the city with an amazing Australian Day Trip. Our detailed trip plan includes absolutely everything you need to know for spending 3 Days ...
3 Days In Melbourne Itinerary for 2024
Take a trip out to Werribee or Geelong; Melbourne Itinerary 3 Days Day 1 In Melbourne. Home to many of the city's attractions, Melbourne's central business district, is designed in a convenient grid system that makes it easy to navigate.
3 days in Melbourne itinerary
Walk off your breakfast with a free Melbourne walking tour, they leave every day at 11am from the State Library, not far from Hardware Lane. This is the walk tour I used when i first arrived in Melbourne and took my family on when they came to visit.. The tour lasts for 2.5-3 hours and is a great way to get a feel for the city, learn about its history and take in the sights.
3 Days in Melbourne: A Melbourne 3 Day Itinerary
Day 3: Cycling. If you have a third day in Melbourne, spend it on a bike as many Melburnians do. Apart from the coffee, the other thing I miss the most from living in Melbourne is how bike friendly the city is. There are so many bike paths and designated bike lanes on the streets that it feels very safe to be cycling here.
How to get around the Melbourne 3 Day Itinerary
Day 3: Great Ocean Road. As one of Australia's most famous self-drive routes, the Great Ocean Road in Melbourne winds its way like a poetic gallery. Stretching over 300 kilometers, this coastal route leads you into the embrace of nature, allowing you to embark on an emotional journey amidst magnificent landscapes.
12 Best Day Trips from Melbourne Within 3 Hours: Breathtaking ...
Go beyond the city centre to explore Melbourne's surrounds on a road trip! Nature adventures, golden beaches, vineyard excursions and wildlife encounters are as close as a 30-minute drive away!
The Ultimate Melbourne Trip Planner: Best 1-Day & 3-Day Itineraries
One of the best day trips from Melbourne is the Great Ocean Road. The Great Ocean Road is a scenic drive that will take you through the twelve Apostles, limestone caves, and the Twelve Apostles Lighthouse. These are some of the places that you should include in your Melbourne itinerary. Check out our list of 5 best day trips from Melbourne : 1.
3 days in Melbourne
Visit Melbourne's beloved beach suburb. Hop on the city's beloved tram to the bustling beach suburb of St Kilda. Take a stroll along the esplanade and the historic St Kilda Pier, throw a towel down on the sand or grab a bite to eat overlooking the ocean.
Melbourne 3 day itinerary
Melbourne 3 day itinerary — Day 1: Discover Melbourne city center Yarra river flows CBD of Melbourne. In the morning, get up early to start your Melbourne tour by taking the City Circle Tram tram around the city without worrying about the price. This is one of the free trams in the city tourism conservation and introduction program.
3 Days in Melbourne with Kids Itinerary
Day Three: Day Trips from Melbourne. If you are lucky enough to have a third day in this exciting city, then you should definitely take one of these popular day trips from Melbourne for families. Melbourne is in the ideal location to reach many beautiful places within just an hour or two drive from the city.
3 day Great Ocean Road getaway
Immerse yourself in truly Big Nature, from the wild and unpredictable Southern Ocean, the intriguing 12 Apostles, vast volcanic plains and national parks steeped in history. Explore villages and seaside towns, hinterland hospitality and fine foodie trails. Explore the best of the Great Ocean Road on our three-day getaway road trip.
12 Best Day Trips from Melbourne Within 3 Hours: Penguins ...
Rent a car while in Melbourne and drive out for a day trip! From the Yarra Valley to Phillip Island, Werribee, and Brighton, these are 12 day trip destinations reachable within 3 hours from Melbourne city.

How to Spend 3 Days in Melbourne (The Perfect 2024 Itinerary)

Check out Flinders St Station and Federation Square

Day One – Exploring the CBD

Day Two – Getting Out Into the ‘Burbs

Day Three – Take a Trip to the Seaside and Paint the Town Red

Head Back to the City for a Night of Fun

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3 Days in Melbourne: A Local’s Perfect Melbourne Itinerary (2024)

At a glance: 3 days in Melbourne itinerary

Melbourne itinerary mapped out

Day 1 – Check out the CBD

Federation Square

Tips for visiting Fed Square

Stroll the streets

Check out street art

Tips for visiting Chinatown

State Library

Tips for visiting the State Library Victoria

Beer at a rooftop bar

Day 2 – Hit up the hipster hoods

Queen Vic Market

Tips for visiting the Queen Vic Market

Collingwood and Fitzroy

Getting to Collingwood/Fitzroy

Day 3 – Head to the beach

Royal Botanic Gardens

Tips for visiting the Royal Botanic Gardens

National Gallery of Victoria

Tips for visiting NGV

Getting to St Kilda

Got 5 days in Melbourne?

Day trips from Melbourne

Where to stay during your 3 days in Melbourne

Related posts

Best Melbourne resources

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The BEST 3 days Melbourne Itinerary (perfect for first timers)

Take a look at Tom’s video below for a glimpse into what Melbourne has to offer!

When is the best time of year to visit Melbourne?

What to pack for Melbourne

Visiting in the summer:

Visiting in the winter:

Where to stay for 3 days in Melbourne

Search here to book your perfect Melbourne Hotel:

Getting to Melbourne from the airport

Transport in Melbourne

Your Melbourne 3 day itinerary

The Block Arcade

Lunch at Centre Place

Hosier Lane

Federation Square and the ACMI Museum

Flinders Street Station

Eureka Tower

Dinner along Southbank

Evening Drinks

Queen Victoria Market

Carlton Gardens

The old-fashioned City Circle Tram

Lunch at 8bit

State Library of Victoria

Melbourne Central

Shrine of Remembrance

Dinner in Chinatown

Evening drinks

Afternoon-Evening

Dinner at Souk

Evening drinks with a view

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A 3 day Melbourne itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip – with insider tips