tourist attractions in south east melbourne

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• 10 Things To Do In South East Melbourne

Activities To Do In South East Melbourne 

Here are some things to do in south east melbourne:, quick navigation.

Relax At Peninsula Hot Springs

• Relax and recharge yourself as you take a dip in the hot springs of the peninsula. 
• Discover over 70 bathing and spa experiences that are seamlessly incorporated into the surreal environment. 
• Nestled in the coastal haven, unwind yourself in the panoramic views of the  Mornington Peninsula.
• It is one of the best things to do in South East Melbourne which lets you relax on a comfortable daybed and connect with others over a shared meal or picnic basket. 

Capture Pictures With Colourful Brighton Beach Boxes

• One of the most photographed spots in Melbourne, the colorful  Brighton Beach Boxes are very popular among tourists all around the world.
• There are about 82 spectacular bright colored wooden bathing boxes which were once used for changing into swimsuits. 
• Dendy Street Beach, also known as Tjos Beach, stretches over the coastline for 500 metres without interruption and is covered in golden sand. 
• In addition to clicking insta worthy pictures which are among fun things to do in South East Melbourne, one can also relax and watch the skilled kite surfers riding the best waves.

Explore The Beautiful Point Nepean National Park

• One of Victoria's most breathtaking natural vistas is Point Nepean, a unique location with a wealth of things to watch and discover. 
• The early development, quarantine, and defence of Victoria were significantly influenced by Point Nepean National Park, which has a long and illustrious history. 
• The park, which has stunning coastline scenery and expansive views of Bass Strait, the Rip, and Port Phillip Bay, is situated at the very tip of the Mornington Peninsula. 
• Visit military forts and tunnels, historic Quarantine Station and more while you explore around the park.

Hike At Mornington Peninsula National Park

• If you are thinking about things to do in South East Melbourne, then put on your walking shoes, get a map, and start your hike. The trail is of around 100 or more kilometres that make up the official Mornington Peninsula Walk. 
• Discover about stunning, isolated bays, rocky headlands, beaches with pounding surf, bushland, and lookouts with expansive views. 
• Take in the stunning views as you pound upon the picturesque and safe walking trails of the national and state parks of Mornington Peninsula. including Point Nepean and Arthurs Seat.
• Thinking about what things to do in South East Melbourne, take a leisurely trip into the hinterland or along the coast, or try the challenging two-day Arthurs Seat to Cape Schanck trek .  

Experience Tree Surfing At Enchanted Adventure

• On the Mornington Peninsula, in the picturesque hinterland of Arthurs Seat, is where you'll find the multi-award-winning natural attraction Enchanted Adventure!
• This flying adventure is one of the thrilling and interactive things to do in South East Melbourne that is sure to raise your heart rate.
• There is adventure for both adults and children, from our awesome Tube Slides to our Tree Surfing courses, enormous brainteasers, Canopy Walk, Sky Scramble, and more! 
• Start off by tackling the high ropes course, which features over 50 aerial obstacles, a variety of ziplines, a rock climbing wall, and a Tarzan swing. 

Golfing At Royal Melbourne Golf Club

• Golfing at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club is one of the interesting things to do in South East Melbourne.
• Dr. Alister MacKenzie, a well-known Scottish architect, was hired to create a course for the new Royal Melbourne campus. 
• These seven "home paddock" holes are the standout holes on the East Course, which begins and ends on the same main site as its more well-known brother. 
• Although the greens are smaller than those in the West, they are just as well designed and have interesting slopes, and the bunkering is excellent.

Snorkeling At Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary

• Lying within an Aboriginal cultural landscape of  Sea Country, the Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary is one of the wonderful locations where you can learn about the wonders of Victoria's underwater marine life.
• Do snorkeling and come across the sandstone platforms that are great for exploring rock pools as they are home to a variety of marine life. 
• The Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary is a popular tourist destination to enjoy a long list of things to do in South East Melbourne. 
• It is surrounded by protruding sandstone cliffs that have been weathered into a number of platforms, sea caves, and offshore reefs.

Best of Sydney

Picnic At Seawinds Garden

• Located nearby Arthurs Seat Summit region, the Seawinds Gardens are well-known because of its blend of formal native and exotic gardens and William Ricketts sculpture collection. 
• At the summit of Arthurs Seat, 305 metres above sea level, Seawinds Gardens span a 34-hectare area. 
• The lookouts throughout the gardens provide breathtaking views of Port Phillip and the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas. 
• The gardens are a popular place for some of the best activities to do in South East Melbourne like picnics because they have the facilities of electric barbecues, tables, and restrooms. 

Best of London

Shop And Eat At Dandenong Market

• Dandenong Market is the place for you if you demand locally grown, fresh produce. 
• With such a wide selection of organic, seasonal, and exotic produce, you're sure to find some excellent purchases that are affordable. 
• Additionally, you'll come across florists who offer roses grown on their own farms, beekeepers who sell honey from their own beehives, and a fantastic selection of seasonal vegetables that is available year-round. 
• Strolling through the street food market which is considered to be one of  the best activities to do in South East Melbourne, you may savour everything from delicious, hot jam donuts to an actual Sri Lankan goat stew under the gorgeous hanging lights.

Best of Australia

Relax At Rosebud Beach

• The nine-kilometre long beach is protected by sandbars off the coast and it is considered to be a very safe beach for kids. 
• Relax at Rosebud Beach and get the chance of watching  swans and pelicans that visit regularly.
• The new beachside playground close to the pier is without a doubt the greatest on the peninsula, and the foreshore reserve provides barbecues and covered picnic spaces. 
• You can also head to the skateboard park with your loved ones to enjoy the skateboarding sessions in the midst of enchanting nature. 

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Melbourne Top Attractions

All great cities in the world have great icons. And that icon is a point of recognition for it. And that’s what Eureka Tower is for Melbourne. It is a glistening, urban skyscraper in the modern, cosmopolitan city of Melbourne. It was named after the Eureka Stockade, which was a rebellion during the Victorian gold rush in 1854 and it is one of the famous places to visit in Melbourne.The Eureka Tower is more than just a tall building, it is a popular tourist spot. The tower stands tall at 297 meters (975 ft.). The building is gold-plated and is next to the Yarra River, in the center of the Southbank precinct. The top 10 floors have 24 carat (99.9%) gold plated glass windows. There is a constant system of pumps moving water between the two 300,000-liter tanks so it can beat the wind-induced oscillations.What makes this a very popular spot for tourists is the fantastic view from the Eureka Towers. From the top floors, one can get unrivaled views. This also happens to be the highest observation tower in the Southern Hemisphere. There are a whole lot of things that you can do here. In fact, the towers also have a range of activities available for everyone from kids to adults. There are interactive games, one can dine here and also do some shopping.These towers are more than just a tourist spots. You get to experience going up at speed -- quite enthralling. Plus, there’s something very soothing about being at a spectacular height. It still remains to be the third tallest building in Australia, with the Q1 in Queensland and Australia 108 leading the way.Checkout and Book Now: Eureka Skydeck Tickets

Luna Park, the oldest amusement park of Melbourne was built in 1912. It is brimming with various brand new thrilling rides to satisfy all the thrill seekers and is a destination for all Melbourne families as well as tourists. With existing for over 100 years, Luna Park in St. Kilda is the most renowned and adored theme park without a doubt. Roller Coaster is the most cherished attraction of the Park. The spectacular and large wooden coaster takes passengers around the entire park at lightning speed and it is one of the best places to visit in Melbourne.Luna Park extends a range of attractions and rides for every age from their latest additions, the free revolving mini roller coaster Speedy Beetle and relaxing ferries wheel Moon Balloons, to old classics such as Dodgems and fidgety thrill rides like the Pharaoh’s Curse and Power Surge.You can not miss visiting Luna Park when exploring Melbourne, no matter what your age is. You can also plan a function like kid’s parties, weddings, engagement events and Christmas parties at Luna Park.It also provides free Wi-Fi to all the visitors for smooth connection. As Melbourne’s ultimate destination for fun, Luna Park is the perfect venue for your school’s end of year activity day, school program or the start of the school holidays.Click here to Book Now: Luna Park Tickets

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31 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

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

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

Updated: July 16, 2023

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

Hosier Lane

Flinders st, melbourne.

Highly reccommended

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

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

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

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

Block Arcade

282 collins st, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

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

Flinders St Station

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

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

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

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

Little Bourke St, Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

City Circle Tram

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

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

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

Federation Square

Swanston st & flinders st, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eureka Skydeck

7 riverside quay, southbank.

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

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

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

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

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

State Library of Victoria

328 swanston st, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27-29 Tattersalls Ln, Melbourne

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

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

National Gallery of Victoria

180 st kilda rd, melbourne.

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

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

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

Old Melbourne Gaol

377 russell st, melbourne.

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

Melbourne River Cruise

Yarra river, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

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

Rooftop Bar

Swanston st, melbourne.

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

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

Queen Victoria Market

Queen st, melbourne.

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

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

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

Melbourne Museum

11 nicholson st, carlton.

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

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

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

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

Hot Air Balloon

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

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

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

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

Parliament House

Spring st, east melbourne.

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

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

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

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

The Yarra Valley

Regional victoria.

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

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

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

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

Cooks Cottage

Fitzroy gardens, east melbourne.

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

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

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

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

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Brunton ave, richmond.

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

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

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

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

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

Shrine of Remembrance

Birdwood ave, melbourne.

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

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

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

Royal Arcade

335 bourke st, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

The Yarra Trail

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

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

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

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

Phillip Island

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

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

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

Peninsula Hot Springs

140 springs lane, fingal.

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

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

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

Royal Botanic Gardens

Birdwood avenue, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

Melbourne Zoo

Elliott ave, parkville.

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

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

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

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

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

Dandenong Ranges

Great dividing range.

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

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

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

St Paul’s Cathedral

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

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

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

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

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Portsea Pier, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria © Mornington Peninsula

Places to visit near Melbourne 

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

By Anna Lavdaras

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

Bendigo Tram, Bendigo, Goldfields, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Where:  a two-hour drive north of Melbourne

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

High Country

Falls Creek, Victoria © Chris Hocking

Where:  about three hours north-east of Melbourne

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

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

Where: a 1.5-hour drive south of Melbourne

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

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

Did you know?

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

Where:  a one-hour drive south of Melbourne

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

Ninety Mile Beach, Gippsland, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Where:  about three hours south-east of Melbourne

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

The Great Ocean Road

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

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

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

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

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat, Victoria © Tourism Australia

Where:  a 1.5-hour drive west of Melbourne

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

MacKenzie Falls, Grampians National Park, Victoria © Roberto Seba

Where: a three-hour drive west of Melbourne

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

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

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Check out my Other Melbourne Guides, Too!

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne CBD

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

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

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

Parliament Building

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

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

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

Treasury Building Museum

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

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

Street Art Laneways

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

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

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

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

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

St Paul’s Cathedral

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

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

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

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

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

Ian Potter Centre

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

Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) Museum

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

Koorie Heritage Trust Cultural Centre

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

Flinders Street Train Station

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

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

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

Yarra River + Yarra River Cruise

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

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

Immigration Museum

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

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

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

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

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

Food Laneways

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

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

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

Melbourne Town Hall

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

Block Arcade + Royal Arcade

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

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

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

Old Melbourne Post Office/ H&M

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

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

Bourke Street Mall

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

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

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

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

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

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

State Library Victoria

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

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

Old Melbourne Gaol

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

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

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

Queen Victoria Market

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

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Southbank/South Melbourne

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

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

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

Royal Botanic Gardens

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

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

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

Shrine of Remembrance

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

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

NGV – National Gallery of Victoria

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

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

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

State Theatre

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

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

Eureka Tower/Skydeck

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

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

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

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

Southbank Promenade

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

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

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

Crown Casino

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

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

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

DFO South Wharf + Melbourne Convention Center

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

South Melbourne Market

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Carlton

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

Melbourne Museum

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

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

Royal Exhibition Building

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

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

Melbourne Zoo

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

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

Lygon Street

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

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Fitzroy + Collingwood

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

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

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

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

Brunswick Street

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

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

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

Rose St Market + Fitzroy Mills Market

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

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

Smith Street

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Abbotsford

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

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

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

Main Yarra Trail

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

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

Abbotsford Convent/Collingwood Farm + Market

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

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

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

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Richmond + East Melbourne

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

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

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Stadium

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

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

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

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

Olympic Precinct

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

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

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

Swan St + Bridge Rd

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

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

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

Cook’s Cottage – Fitzroy Gardens

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Docklands

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

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

Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

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

Book discounted tickets here! 

Marvel Stadium

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: St Kilda

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

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

St Kilda Pier + Penguins

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

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

Catani Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

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

St Kilda Esplanade Market: Sundays

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: South Yarra/Prahran

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

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

Chapel Street

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

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

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

Prahran Market

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

Places to Visit Near Melbourne – Melbourne Day Trips

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

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

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

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

Great Ocean Road

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

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

Yarra Valley Wine Region

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

Phillip Island Penguins

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

Puffing Billy + Dandenong Ranges

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

Visit the Mornington Peninsula

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

Visit a Music Festival

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

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South Melbourne area guide

The best restaurants, bars, shops and events in South Melbourne

Lest you only make the trek occasionally to visit  South Melbourne Market , let us tell you, there's a whole lot more to South Melbourne, from  St Ali  and  Chez Dre  for coffee, to  Lûmé  for dinner and Bibelot for dessert.

South Melbourne highlights

South Melbourne Market

Mine Escape Room

• 4 out of 5 stars
• price 1 of 4

The Kettle Black

• 3 out of 5 stars

The best restaurants in South Melbourne

The wood-fire grill burns bright at this glass-domed beauty in South Melbourne

Bibelot dishes up cakes and confectionary so couture, you’ll want to walk out wearing them

• 5 out of 5 stars

From a Covid-19 pivot to one of South Melbourne's quiet overachievers – James presents a near-faultless menu

The goal-kicking team behind Top Paddock has flung open the doors to a fresh new café in South Melbourne. It’ll look fab in your Instagram feed

A new chef is yet another reason to spend all your time and money at St Ali South

Mrs Kim's Grill

• price 2 of 4

Experience the thrill of the grill

Tempura Hajime

Tiny, hidden and serving elegant cuisine, Hajime ticks all the best of Japan boxes

Bellota Wine Bar

South Melbourne: much handier than Rome, Paris, Athens or San Sebastian

Proper & Son

This little piggy went to market, and found proper good food at this bright carvery café

• price 3 of 4

OK, adventure-hounds. You want something out of the box? Lûmé is just the ticket

The best bars in South Melbourne

The Palace Hotel: South Melbourne

Time Out's 2016 Pub of the Year remains at the head of the pack

This neighbourhood wine bar is where you’ll find drops of natural wine and some serious sourdough pizzas

Simply Spanish: South Melbourne

Simply Spanish is just that; authentic Spanish food served up fresh and simple. They’ve been dishing out their big-pan paella to lunch-goers at South...

More great venues in South Melbourne

Pick up fresh produce, locally designed goods and gourmet treats at one of Melbourne's biggest markets

Escape Room Melbourne

Melbourne's first escape room has a southside outpost – and it's as brain tickling as the original

Mine Escape

The makers of Melbourne's original puzzle room open a new, nail-biting escape adventure

Miss Nail Bar: South Melbourne Market

If you struggle to plan ahead or stick to a schedule, this nail salon is walk-in and call-ahead only

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Attractions and sights

Melbourne is packed with attractions, from laneways and street art to lush parks and grand galleries and museums, all wrapped up in a vibrant atmosphere.​

Tours and cruises

Discover what locals love about Melbourne with a guided tour of the city and its attractions.​​

• Walking tour

Melbourne laneways are filled with street art, stencils, paste-ups and mixed media.

Aboriginal Melbourne

Find out more about Aboriginal culture through Melbourne's galleries and museums.

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Explore Melbourne's public museums and galleries along with artist-run and commercial galleries.

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Iconic Melbourne experiences

Waterside views, hidden bars and amazing exhibitions.

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Queen Victoria Market

This beloved Melbourne landmark is the largest open air market in the southern hemisphere.

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Theatre and shows

Discover Melbourne's hit musicals, cutting-edge theatre and late-night cabaret shows.

Melbourne Museum

Explore history, culture, science, and nature at this popular Melbourne attraction.

Melbourne's most instagrammable shops

Our guide to the best looking shops in Melbourne, guaranteed to light up your Instagram feed.

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Melbourne Zoo

Journey through a world of wildlife in the heart of Melbourne.

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Federation Square

Melbourne's public square and meeting place, opposite Flinders Street Station.

Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia

The world’s first major gallery dedicated exclusively to Australian art.

Discover Melbourne's spectacular harbour at Docklands, just minutes from the city centre.​

Hidden gems of Kensington

Head into Kensington and discover these hidden cafes, bars, pubs, breweries, boutiques and more.

Let the hanging lanterns guide you along Little Bourke Street into Australia’s oldest Chinatown.

Your guide to Melbourne's unofficial Koreatown

Travel to South Korea from Melbourne with the best fried chicken, K-BBQ and more.

The ultimate walking guide to Carlton

How to find the best restaurants, hidden shops and stunning sights in Carlton - all on foot!

Greek Precinct

Experience Greek culture and cuisine in Melbourne's buzzing Greek Precinct on Lonsdale Street.

The ultimate guide to Degraves Street

Where to shop, dine and caffeinate in Melbourne's most famous laneway.

The best restaurants, cafes and bars in Hardware Lane

Out shopping? Stop for street food, Korean desserts and secret Italian bars.

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Secret gardens and majestic parks

Take a walk through Melbourne’s lush parks and gardens.

Iconic laneways and arcades walk

Take a walk through Melbourne’s arcades and laneways.

Aboriginal Melbourne walk

Discover Melbourne's Aboriginal heritage and culture on this walking tour of significant sites.

Melbourne music walk

Discover Melbourne’s music highlights, from music venues to busking hot spots and historic sites.

Melbourne Visitor Hub

Stop by Town Hall for information and help planning your time in Melbourne and Regional Victoria.

Parks and gardens

One of the most loved things about Melbourne is its picturesque parks, gardens and green spaces.

The ultimate guide to Melbourne's best markets

Explore Melbourne's iconic markets.

The ultimate guide to exploring Fitzroy Gardens

Make an exercise date and explore the beauty of this glorious city garden.

Things to do in the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Discover the best natural wonders, events and dining the RBG has to offer. 

How to visit Korea in Melbourne

The best K-pop stores, Korean cafes, BBQ restaurants and streetwear stores in Melbourne.

Hidden gems to visit in Docklands

From secret wine bars to amazing art galleries, Docklands offers more than meets the eye.

The ultimate guide to Centre Place

Discover laneway lunch spots, boutique shopping and hole-in-the-wall cafes.

Melbourne’s most Instagrammable experiences

You won't need filters at the city's most photogenic spots.

What’s new in Melbourne’s laneways

Take a peek down unfamiliar roads as we highlight the best hidden attractions in the city.

The ultimate guide to the Nicholas Building

Explore the iconic building that houses some of the most unique stores in the city

THE LUME Melbourne

Experience art, dining, wellness and more like never before across 3,000sqm of immersive space.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Discover thousands of aquatic animals in four enchanting worlds at this top Melbourne attraction.

Arts Centre Melbourne

With its iconic spire, the Arts Centre Melbourne is a cultural and architectural landmark.

Melbourne Town Hall Tours

Take a tour of one of Melbourne's most iconic buildings.

Old Melbourne Gaol

Visit Melbourne’s oldest prison, where most of Australia’s infamous characters spent time.

Melbourne Skydeck

This 300m high public observation deck captures everything that is special about Melbourne.

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State Library Victoria

Australia's oldest public library and one of the first free public libraries in the world.

Take a guided tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Shrine Tours

Experience more at the Shrine with a guided tour.

Royal Exhibition Building

World Heritage-listed and the oldest surviving Great Hall of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

NGV International

NGV International houses a whole world of international art.

Cooks' Cottage

Come and explore Cooks' Cottage and learn about its English origins and relocation to Melbourne.

An interactive 3D art gallery with optical illusions that visitors can touch and explore.

Museum dedicated to the moving image through events, film screenings and exhibitions.

Immigration Museum

An exploration of the stories of people from all over the world who have migrated to Australia.

The Conservatory

An indoor world of floral beauty with displays that change five times each year.

Melbourne’s secret gardens and green spaces

Take a break from indoors with a stroll through these city-side parks.

Children's Gallery Melbourne Museum

This is a wondrous place for young children to explore, play and learn.

Birrarung Marr

Popular park along the Yarra River next to Federation Square.

St Paul's Cathedral

This prominent and historic Anglican cathedral is a Melbourne landmark.

Fitzroy Gardens

These historic gardens are home to the famous Cooks' Cottage.

Melbourne's accessible and wheelchair-friendly attractions

These local attractions are accessible for everyone to experience.

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How to spend 24 hours in Melbourne

From secret street art to seasonal events, you’ll find something for everyone.

Weird, unique and unusual things to do in Melbourne

The ultimate guide to Melbourne weird.

Major events

From the Australian Open to the Melbourne Cup, major events take centre stage throughout the year.

Getting around

Melbourne is easy to explore by bike, tram, bus, train or taxi.​​​​​​​​​​​​​

The 14 best experiences in Melbourne

Oct 26, 2023 • 8 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Photograph Melbourne's murals and street art

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Relax for an afternoon at Abbotsford Convent and Gardens

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

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

6. Promenade St Kilda’s vibrant foreshore

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

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

7. Go green at CERES Community Environment Park

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

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

8. Book in for Melbourne’s best dining experiences

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

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

9. Go explore Melbourne’s western regions

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

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

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

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

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

11. Discover Melbourne’s history at the Melbourne Museum

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

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

12. Learn about the Anzacs at the Shrine of Remembrance 

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

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

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

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

14. Sample gourmet treats at Queen Victoria Market 

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

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

This article was first published June 2021 and updated October 2023

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

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

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

Culture is a big draw. Art lovers can get their fix at Melbourne's impressive museums and galleries. And foodies will also find plenty to love. Famous Aussie chefs flaunt their talents here, whipping up creative concoctions from around the world — you can feast on everything from Greek, Italian, and Indian cuisine to Spanish and Vietnamese.

But perhaps Melbourne's biggest claim to fame is sports. The famous Melbourne Cup horse race , held on the first Tuesday in November, brings the entire nation to a standstill. And Australian Rules football ("footy") elicits an almost religious reverence. If you're a sports lover, try to catch a game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground while you're here. Tennis fans flock to the Australian Open in early February, and Formula One followers eagerly anticipate the Australian Grand Prix.

You'll never run out of things to do in Melbourne. Explore the city's diverse galleries, cafés, and shops; stroll through lush gardens; cruise along the Yarra River; or hop aboard a heritage tram to discover Melbourne's magic.

Melbourne also boasts a busy arts calendar. Highlights include the Melbourne International Comedy Festival (March to April), and if you're looking for things to do in Melbourne in August, scoop up some tickets to the Melbourne International Film Festival. Seeking a little slice of nature? Rewarding day trip adventures lie a short drive from the city buzz.

Before you head out on your sightseeing tour, find the best places to visit in the city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Melbourne.

See also: Where to Stay in Melbourne

1. Relax at the Royal Botanic Gardens

2. find inspiration at the national gallery of victoria, 3. check out federation square, 4. wander through melbourne's arcades and laneways, 5. get a culture fix at southbank & south wharf, 6. catch a game at the melbourne cricket ground and visit the national sports museum, 7. enjoy the views from melbourne skydeck at eureka tower, 8. attend a performance at arts centre melbourne, 9. explore the melbourne museum and royal exhibition building, 10. take a city circle tram tour, 11. meet the animals at melbourne zoo, 12. captain cook's cottage, fitzroy gardens, 13. cruise the yarra river, 14. pay your respects at the shrine of remembrance, 15. soak up the scene at docklands, 16. shop at queen victoria market, 17. take a tour of parliament house, 18. delve into melbourne's past at the immigration museum, 19. state library victoria, where to stay in melbourne for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to melbourne, melbourne, australia - climate chart.

Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens are among the finest of their kind in the world. Established in 1846, the gardens encompass two locations: Melbourne and Cranbourne.

The Melbourne gardens lie in the heart of green parkland extending south of the Yarra River , about two kilometers from the CBD. Covering an area of 38 hectares, they are home to more than 10,000 plant species from around the globe, including many rare specimens.

Highlights include the Ian Potter Foundation Children's Garden , designed to encourage the next generation of gardeners, and the Fern Gully Health and Wellbeing Garden , a tranquil spot to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Aboriginal Heritage Walk explores the rich heritage of Indigenous Australians.

In summer, live theater is a highlight of the gardens, and a moonlight cinema is set up under the stars. Rolling lawns, lakes, large trees, and abundant birdlife make this a beautiful spot to linger and enjoy a picnic or a traditional high tea at The Terrace café.

Special events add something new to every visit. Check the calendar for seasonal programs like guided birding walks; Forest Therapy walks; ClimateWatch walks; and Lightscape, when the gardens are illuminated after dark.

No matter what time of year you visit these beautiful gardens, this is one of the best free things to do in Melbourne. Note, though, that admission is charged for some special events.

If you're short on time or mobility is an issue, hop aboard the Explorer - Melbourne Gardens . This open-sided minibus will take you on a 30-minute tour of all the garden's highlights.

Address: Birdwood Ave, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria

Melbourne is famous for its culture, and the National Gallery of Victoria is the jewel in the crown. It's not only the oldest public art gallery in Australia , it's also the most visited. Here, you can admire more than 70,000 works of European, Asian, Oceanic, and American art in two city locations.

The international collection is housed in the St. Kilda Road building , originally opened in 1968. The building is renowned for The Great Hall, where visitors are encouraged to lie on the floor and gaze at the colorful stained-glass ceiling.

The extensive Australian collection is held in the Ian Potter Gallery in Federation Square , featuring the history of Australian art, from Aboriginal works through to the Heidelberg School and contemporary mixed media. One of the highlights is the large triptych format, The Pioneer by Frederick McCubbin.

There's always something new to see at the National Gallery of Victoria. It presents more than 40 exhibitions a year, as well as special events, children's programs, tours, and performances. Best of all, entry to the permanent exhibitions is free .

NGV International

Address: St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria

The Ian Potter Centre

• Federation Square, Flinders Street &, Russell Street, Melbourne Victoria

When Federation Square opened in 2002 to commemorate 100 years of federation, it divided Melburnians. There were those who loved it and those who hated it. Either way, "Fed Square" has become an integral part of the city, a popular meeting place, and a great spot for tourists to start their sightseeing.

You can't miss Fed Square. It's located opposite Flinders Street Station, a major public transport hub. The building's ultra-modern design of open and closed spaces stands in striking contrast to the surrounding Victorian architecture.

Live entertainment lures locals and tourists here. With more than 2,000 events annually, you can always find a performance or festival to enjoy in the central outdoor performance space and intimate indoor venues.

And you'll find plenty of cafés and restaurants here, too. Chocolate Buddha is a favorite serving casual Japanese cuisine with beautiful views of the city.

Museums and galleries are other highlights of visiting Federation Square. The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia is dedicated to Australian art. The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) hosts fascinating interactive exhibits on screen culture (film, TV, videos, and art); and the Koorie Heritage Trust , displays art, photographs, and artifacts from the Koorie Aboriginal people, who hail from parts of Victoria and New South Wales. Best of all, entry to these museums is free .

Fed Square is also one of the largest free Wi-Fi sites in Australia .

Address: Corner of Swanston and Flinders Streets, Melbourne, Victoria

Wandering the labyrinth of lanes and alleyways is one of the most popular things to do in Melbourne. Head to the area around Flinders , Collins, and Bourke Streets to see elegant, interesting, and quirky Melbourne at its best.

For high-end shopping, one of the most popular places to visit in Melbourne is the magnificent Block Arcade on Collins Street . With its mosaic floor, period details, and boutique shops, this is the place where late 19th-century gentry promenaded, coining the phrase, "doing the block."

You'll find everything here from Haigh's Chocolates and vintage jewelry to designer fashion, gifts, and cafés. It's also worth lining up for a morning or afternoon tea at the Hopetoun Tearooms . This Melbourne icon dates back to 1892 and is the only original shop still in the arcade today.

Cozy cafés beckon from the tangle of backstreets. Save time to order a coffee, pull up a chair, and people-watch for a while — it's a favorite Melbourne pastime.

The opulent Royal Arcade is Melbourne's oldest arcade, and Flinders and Degraves Lanes are also well worth exploring.

Southbank is the place to go for a dose of culture. Located on the banks of the Yarra River , a short stroll from Flinders Street Station, this scenic precinct is packed with shops, cafés, and cultural attractions. It's a wonderful place for a stroll along the river at any time of year.

Looking for things to do in Melbourne at night? You'll find some of the city's best nightlife here — especially in the South Wharf area, where heritage sheds are converted into lively entertainment venues. It's an evocative space after dark, when the city lights ignite and reflect off the river.

Southbank also hosts enticing alfresco cafés, restaurants, and live entertainment, and the many festivals held here throughout the year amp up the vibe.

If shopping is high on your list of things to do, you'll find an excellent arts and crafts market here every Sunday. Plus you can splurge at chic designer boutiques or grab a bargain at DFO South Wharf, factory outlet stores.

If you feel like catching a show, the Malthouse Theatre presents everything from musical theater, dance, drama, and comedy to contemporary opera and cabaret. Or catch a performance by the Melbourne Theatre Company at Southbank Theatre. Southbank is also home to Arts Centre Melbourne , the city's major performance venue.

While you're here, keep a lookout for the public art, like The Travellers steel sculptures along Sandridge Bridge and the Queen Bee gracing the side of the landmark Eureka Tower .

Looking for things to do in Southbank with kids? Climb aboard Polly Woodside in South Wharf, one of the country's last surviving 19th-century tall ships.

Melbourne is the sporting capital of Australia, so it's no surprise that a sports stadium numbers among the city's top tourist attractions. With a capacity of 100,000 and a history dating back to 1853, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is considered one of the world's greatest stadiums. It's also the largest and oldest sports venue in Australia.

As the main stadium for the 1956 Olympic Games and 2006 Commonwealth Games, the birthplace of Test Cricket, and the home of Australian Rules Football , "the 'G" is woven into the fabric of Melbourne.

Daily tours take visitors for a trip down a memory lane of great moments in sporting history and incorporate the Australian Sports Museum , including the Australian Gallery of Sport and Olympic Museum . You can also catch a game of cricket in summer, or football during winter.

Directly opposite the MCG is Melbourne Park , home of the Australian Open tennis tournament, held every January. You can hire a tennis court, and many concerts are held here during the year.

Address: Brunton Ave, East Melbourne, Victoria

Wondering where to find a great view over the city? Head to the 91-story Eureka Tower in the heart of Southbank. This striking skyscraper was named in recognition of The Eureka Stockade, the 1854 rebellion of prospectors in the Victorian goldfields. Adding to the Gold Rush theme, the building's gold crown and gold-plated windows literally sparkle when the sun catches the top of the building.

Melbourne Skydeck , on the 88th floor, affords the highest public view in any building in the Southern Hemisphere . For even more thrills, head out onto The Edge , a glass cube that slides out three meters from the building for vertigo-free visitors. You can also buy tickets to Voyager Theatre, a Virtual Reality experience that takes you on an immersive, multisensory journey to 16 famous Melbourne attractions.

Author's Tip : Arrive at sunset to see spectacular views over the city during the day and night, when the lights twinkle as the sun slips slowly beneath the horizon.

Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank, Melbourne, Victoria

Arts Centre Melbourne is the city's leading arts and culture venue. Easily recognizable by its spire, it sits on the banks of the Yarra River, near South Bank, and is a wonderful place to attend a performance of theater, dance, music, comedy, and more.

Arts Centre Melbourne incorporates a range of state-of-the-art theaters and spaces. These include the State Theatre , home to The Australian Ballet and Opera Australia; the 884-seat Playhouse ; the more intimate Fairfax Studio ; and Hamer Hall, the premier performance space for the revered Melbourne Symphony Orchestra . A short stroll away, you can attend an outdoor concert at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in the Kings Domain Gardens.

Planning a pre-show dinner? Café Vic serves up seasonal contemporary cuisine, as well as snacks throughout the day.

While you're here, stop by the Australian Music Vault . The free exhibition here tells the story of Australian contemporary music.

A short tram ride from the CBD, the Melbourne Museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. This modern purpose-built museum houses a diverse collection depicting society and cultures, as well as science and the environment.

Highlights include Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre ; the Phar Lap exhibit, about Australia's greatest racehorse; and the Children's Gallery , a series of hands-on activities designed to stimulate and engage youngsters. You can also stroll through a vibrant forest, and immerse yourself in a world of life-size dinosaurs.

Adjacent to the Melbourne Museum is the elaborate Royal Exhibition Building. Built in 1880 to host Melbourne's International Exhibition, the building also held the first Commonwealth Parliament of Australia in 1901. Regular tours are available, and the building is still used for exhibitions and special events.

Address: 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton, Victoria

Want to do some city sightseeing the Melbourne way? Hop aboard the City Circle Tram . Melbourne is famous for its trams, and the City Circle Tram is a free and easy way of seeing the top sights in the CBD and Docklands.

Accompanied by a commentary, the hop-on, hop-off heritage tram passes many of the grand historic buildings, including Parliament House , the Old Treasury Building, Princess Theatre, and the Windsor Hotel . Plus you can hop off at major attractions like Federation Square. The trams run every 12 minutes and take about 50 minutes to complete the entire loop.

You can board the tram at any stop along the City Circle route, seven days a week, except Christmas Day and Good Friday.

From big cats to butterflies, animal lovers will have plenty to enjoy at the 22-hectare Melbourne Zoo . Although the zoo dates back to 1862, the 250-plus species of animals have the best of modern facilities in state-of-the-art enclosures, about five minutes from the Melbourne CBD.

You'll find animals from all over the planet here. The award-winning Trail of the Elephants is an insight into the lives of the resident Asian elephants in a traditional village-garden setting. Another highlight is the Orang-utan Sanctuary , where the animals live in their treetop home. And you can wander down a bush track to meet your favorite Aussie animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and emus.

With many wild encounters, including "roar and snore," twilight music concerts, and behind-the-scenes tours of some enclosures, Melbourne Zoo offers animal lovers a fun-packed experience.

Zoos Victoria operates two other zoos: Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo , and all run important conservation programs, including breeding and recovery work for endangered species.

Address: Elliott Ave, Parkville, Victoria

Captain Cook's Cottage was brought to Melbourne from Captain James Cook's native home in Yorkshire, England and erected in Fitzroy Gardens . The quaint cottage is an insight into the life and times of Cook's seafaring adventures and exploration of Australia and other parts of the world.

Also in the beautiful Fitzroy Gardens is the magnificent Spanish-mission style conservatory , which is always filled with a vibrant floral display. Children will love the tiny Tudor village and Fairy Tree .

After strolling around the gardens, head to hipster-packed Fitzroy for some of Melbourne's best vegan food, as well as vintage shopping and vibrant street art.

Address: Wellington Parade, East Melbourne, Victoria

A riverboat cruise is not only a relaxing way to see the sights, it's also an insight into the history of the Yarra River . Many cruise companies can be found along Southbank, and it's a fun way to get your bearings before you set out to explore the city on foot.

While you're gliding down the river, keep an eye out for Birrarung Marr, originally called "Birrarung," meaning "river of mists and shadows," a waterfront parkland celebrating Aboriginal ties with the Yarra River.

If you're short on time, the one-hour River Gardens Melbourne Sightseeing Cruise gives you a relaxing tour past top city sights, like the Royal Botanic Gardens , Melbourne Cricket Ground , and National Tennis Centre .

Sitting majestically in Kings Domain gardens, the Shrine of Remembrance was built after the First World War to commemorate Victorians involved in the Great War, either abroad or at home. Today, it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women. It's also the central focus for ceremonies on ANZAC Day, held on 25 April, and Remembrance Day, held on 11 November each year.

In the Galleries of Remembrance under the shrine you can explore photographs, artifacts, and artwork related to Australians at war and peacekeeping operations.

Guided or self-guided tours are available daily, and the lighting on the building is particularly beautiful at night. From the balcony, you can enjoy beautiful views over the 13 hectares of surrounding parkland and the city beyond.

If you happen to be visiting Melbourne on a Sunday, you can attend a Last Post Service here at 4:45pm with bugle calls and a wreath-laying at the Eternal Flame.

Address: Birdwood Ave, Melbourne, Victoria

Docklands is Melbourne's newest waterfront entertainment precinct. With the highest concentration of green-star-rated buildings in the Southern Hemisphere, the satellite village is filled with cafés, restaurants, tourist attractions, and parklands. It's one of the most popular Melbourne attractions at night.

You'll find something here for everyone. Snap some pics at ArtVo , an interactive 3D art gallery; take the Docklands Public Art Walk; or soak up some street art scenes at Blender Studios .

Docklands is also home to Marvel Stadium and the O'Brien Icehouse , a world-class ice sports venue.

Craving some retail therapy? An art and vintage market is also held along the waterfront every Sunday, and you can shop 'til you drop at the open-air shopping mall. Dining is also a highlight. You can feast around the world on everything from Turkish and Vietnamese cuisine to contemporary Australian creations.

Address: Harbour Esplanade, Docklands, Victoria

A popular place with locals and tourists, Queen Victoria Market has been at the center of fresh produce shopping since 1878. Farm-fresh goodies are a highlight here, but the market stalls sell everything from clothing, art, and toys to that hard-to-find unique souvenir, five days a week.

Are you a foodie? You can sign up for a two-hour guided walking tour with tastings of some of the market's best treats.

Special events such as winter night markets, music concerts, and other functions are often held throughout the year.

Address: Queen and Victoria Streets, Melbourne, Victoria

Parliament House is one of Melbourne's best-kept tourist secrets. This is where Australia's first federal parliament met from 1901 through 1927, and the building's grand colonnaded exterior makes a striking landmark on Spring Street.

One of Australia's oldest public buildings, Parliament House was built during the Gold Rush, and its interior is lavishly decorated with gold leaf, chandeliers, and a superb mosaic floor .

Today, you can watch the proceedings of the two Houses in the public galleries on days when parliament is sitting. Free, informative tours are held Monday to Friday on days when parliament is not in session.

Insider's tip: Another fun way to experience this grand building is to book High Tea or a farm-to-fork lunch at Strangers Corridor, the elegant wood-paneled restaurant.

Address: Spring Street, East Melbourne, Victoria

Want to learn about the interesting people who call Melbourne home? The Immigration Museum tells real stories of people who relocated here from all over the world. Every person arriving in Melbourne had to pass through customs here, and their poignant stories help explain the city's diversity today.

The museum is located in the elegant Old Customs House , and its permanent collection is interactive and engaging. Special exhibitions add to the museum's appeal.

A visit here provides a different perspective of early European settlement and its impact on Indigenous communities. If you're looking for things to do in Melbourne on a rainy day, this is a great option.

Address: 400 Flinders Street, Melbourne, Victoria

State Library Victoria is another worthy addition to your list of free things to do in Melbourne. As soon as you approach the building, you'll be impressed by its grand heritage architecture. First opened in 1856 , the building sports an elegant sandstone facade fronted with a series of grand Corinthian columns. Step inside for more surprises.

The Ian Potter Queen's Hall is a serene, light-filled space lined with white Corinthian columns. Chandeliers and filigreed original skylights add to the grandeur here, and the space hosts one of the world's largest chess collections . During the day, students huddle here buried deep in books. At night, it transforms into a magical event space.

If you're an art and history lover, you'll enjoy browsing the multiple galleries. The free exhibitions here range from Melbourne artists to historic artifacts, like Ned Kelly's armor, and photography collections.

Undoubtedly, though, the highlight is the La Trobe Reading Room . A soaring domed ceiling crowns this magnificent octagonal space, which was inspired by the British Museum in London and the Library of Congress in Washington. Four gallery levels rise above the vast space, and light floods in through the roof's many skylights. It's one of the most photographed sites in the library. Head to the upper galleries for the best shot.

Kids, too, will find things to love here. A two-story children's castle, reading nooks, and, of course, plenty of books await at The Pauline Gandel Children's Quarter.

The best way to explore the library is on a free self-guided digital tour . Alternatively, you can join one of the many free guided tours led by passionate volunteers. After exploring the rich history here, you can refuel with cake and coffee at one of the two on-site cafés.

Address: 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne Victoria

For first-time visitors to Melbourne, one of the best places to stay is either the city center or Southbank, with its restaurants, cafés, and lively events calendar. These tourist-friendly areas are close to prime attractions such as Federation Square; the Royal Botanic Gardens; and the labyrinth of laneways and shopping arcades around Flinders, Collins, and Bourke Streets. Here are some highly rated hotels in these areas:

Luxury Hotels:

• Steps away from St. Patrick's Cathedral and Fitzroy Gardens, the plush Park Hyatt is one of Melbourne's best hotels. Shops and restaurants lie a short stroll away, and sports fans can walk to the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Melbourne Park.
• Exuding elegance and old-world charm, The Langham, Melbourne is a romantic choice in Southbank overlooking the Yarra River. In your spare time, you can swim in the indoor pool topped by a glass roof, dine in the excellent on-site restaurant, and walk to popular shopping and entertainment venues.
• Also in Southbank, the serviced apartments of Quay West Suites are a favorite with families.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A couple of blocks from the famous Queen Victoria Market, the Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens has a tram stop on its doorstep and offers great value within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
• Also steps away from a free tram and a five-minute walk from outlet shopping, Alto Hotel on Bourke is Australia's first carbon-neutral hotel. Its modern apartments are a great choice for families.
• A five-minute walk from Federation Square, the boutique Adelphi Hotel surprises guests with its contemporary style and personal touches.

Budget Hotels:

• Near Melbourne Park, the family-run City Centre Budget Hotel offers excellent value, with a rooftop kitchen and plenty of public transport options on its doorstep.
• Within walking distance of Flinders Street Station, the Ibis Budget Melbourne CBD has basic rooms but a fantastic location.
• Also in the budget price range, Essence Hotel Carlton lies two tram stops away from the CBD and only a five-minute walk from the Melbourne Museum, IMAX Theatre, and the Free Tram Zone. The rooms are tiny but clean, and the beds are comfy.
• Neighbours Sightseeing Tour: Fans of the long-running Neighbours TV soap opera can take a "Neighbours" Tour of Ramsay Street to see filming locations and the original Ramsay Street houses. You also have the opportunity to meet one of the cast members.
• Great Ocean Road Day Trip: The most popular excursion from Melbourne is to the Great Ocean Road and the site of the famous limestone stacks known as the Twelve Apostles. The Great Ocean Road Small-Group Eco Tour from Melbourne is an easy and fun excursion. This tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, morning tea, lunch, transport in a 24-passenger vehicle, and park admission fees for stops at Great Otway National Park for wildlife viewing and Port Campbell National Park to see the Twelve Apostles. You can also upgrade this tour to include a scenic helicopter flight.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Day Trip Adventures : Need a nature fix? You'll find plenty of inspiring places to visit near Melbourne by car. Day trip destinations include the beautiful Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges and the golden beaches of the Mornington Peninsula . In less than a two-hour drive from Melbourne, you can also delve into the rich Gold Rush history of Ballarat, Bendigo, and the Macedon Ranges , and on the western side of Port Phillip Bay, Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are the gateway to the Great Ocean Road .

Outdoor Adventures : If you're after some fresh air fun, check out these other places to visit in regional Victoria. Skiers will find some of Australia's top ski resorts within a day's drive of Melbourne, as well as fantastic fishing and some of the country's best hikes . If you need help planning your trip, see our article on Australia's top itineraries .

More on Australia

• The Top 10 Things To...

The Top Things To Do And See In South Melbourne

In between Melbourne ’s CBD and Bayside is South Melbourne, one of the city’s oldest suburbs. Dozens of multicultural restaurants and cafés make South Melbourne one of the best suburbs for good food, wine and coffee. With beautiful architecture, historical sites, a market place and beach, South Melbourne incorporates the best of this city into one small suburb. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Visit south melbourne market for the best fresh food and produce.

South Melbourne Market is the heart and icon of this suburb, bustling throughout the year. Abundant with some of the country’s freshest produce, this market is a one-stop shop for the best fruit and veggies. If cooking isn’t your forte, delicious international cuisine can be enjoyed in the surrounding restaurants. Turkish gözleme, Spanish paella and Vietnamese dim sims are just some of the many simple street foods served throughout the market. Quality cappuccinos can be enjoyed at Clement Coffee on a cold day, while Fritz Gelato serves up dozens of ice-cream flavours throughout summer . This lively marketplace incorporates all of South Melbourne’s best food, stalls and produce under one roof. Be sure to visit in summer when the venue is transformed into a weekly night market on Thursdays. Opening hours: Wed 8am-4pm, Fri 8am-5pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm South Melbourne Market, 322-326 Coventry St, South Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Have a picnic outside South Melbourne Town Hall

Listed with the Victorian Heritage Register, South Melbourne Town Hall is hidden away from all the suburb’s busy street corners and boulevards. Built in 1879, the hall is an attractive exhibit of Melbourne ’s unique architecture. Just outside the building is a long patch of grass featuring a colourful rose garden, making it an ideal place for a quiet picnic. The hall is now home to the Australian National Academy of Music showcasing Melbourne’s outstanding musical talent.

Opening hours: Mon-Sun 9am-4pm

South Melbourne Town hall, Fishley St, South Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Enjoy coffee and cake at The Old Paper Shop

Featuring a cake shop, deli and café, The Old Paper Shop is an ideal place to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner in South Melbourne. It is hard to walk past The Old Paper Shop with mouth-watering sweets and cakes decorated across the window. Inside, you can enjoy a self-styled sandwich or salad from the fresh and extensive deli. Carefully crafted cappuccinos are also available from morning until midnight.

Opening hours: Mon-Sun 6am-10:30pm

The Old Paper Shop, 266 Clarendon St, South Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Meditate at See Yup Temple

Built in 1856, the See Yup Temple incorporates a unique blend of European and Chinese architecture. The temple was built by the See Yup Society as a spiritual centre and has been a site of prayers and worship for over a century. The temple was funded by donations from society members, and the names of thousands of deceased and present donors are inscribed on stone tablets. Originally an 18th-century Victorian-style building, the temple has been infused with oriental elements, and the entire space is abundant with handcrafted artefacts from China . The inside is adorned with beautiful oriental décor and a misty atmosphere where incense sticks burn throughout the day. See Yup Temple is an ideal place to spend a quiet and curious morning in South Melbourne.

See Yup Temple, 76 Raglan St, South Melbourne, VIC, Australia, +61 3 9699 7388

Sample authentic Italian pasta at Etto

Etto is all about authentic and simple Italian street food. Fresh pasta and sauces are made from scratch but are cooked to order and ready within minutes. Etto also makes delicious thin-style Napoli pizza, hot garlic bread and crisp salads. You can select your own pasta combination with 13 different sauces and 11 different pasta bases. Perfect for an outdoor lunch in summer, Etto also has a collection of cool Italian wine and beer.

Opening hours: Mon-Sun 12pm-9:15 pm

Etto, 261 Clarendon St, South Melbourne, VIC, Australia , +61 3 9696 3886

Take a walk on South Melbourne Beach

After a hectic day of shopping and eating, head down to South Melbourne Beach either by tram or a short scenic walk. This quiet but popular beach resembles Florida vibes, with palm trees, piers and rollerbladers passing by in every direction. The beach still radiates a local liveliness with fish and chip shops, plenty of beer and friendly dog walkers. Whether it’s a walk down the pier or a picnic on the sand, this beach is the best place in South Melbourne to enjoy a soothing sunset.

South Melbourne Beach, VIC, Australia

Visit Smart Artz Gallery

Hidden behind a laneway on Clarendon Street, Smart Artz Gallery features some of Melbourne’s best artworks. Converted from an industrial warehouse, Smart Artz is a chic setting ideal for enjoying low-key art and exhibitions. This hip space features paintings from self-taught contemporary artist Kim Kennedy who is Melbourne born and bred. The gallery also features original, hand wrought sculptures from Charles Rocco. Smart Artz also showcases the original piano of Dame Nellie Melba, listed as a national treasure. From live performances to original paintings, Smart Artz radiates the sophisticated vibes of South Melbourne.

Meet for Dinner at Red Petite

Red Petite is a tiny Thai restaurant squeezed between vintage terrace homes. Although small in size, Red Petite won’t fail to satisfy any kind of appetite. With a homely atmosphere and friendly staff, it is easy to relax at Red Petite without the hustle found in larger restaurants. Authentic Thai food ranges from stir-fried ground pork to fresh curries and salads. Simple Bangkok street food can also be enjoyed for lunch and dinner. With warm lighting, a cosy ambience and, most importantly, delicious food, Red Petite offers a homely dining experience.

Red Petite, 194 Bank St, South Melbourne, VIC, Australia , +61 3 9699 6969

Breathe history at the Emerald Hill Library & Heritage Centre

Historically known as Emerald Hill, South Melbourne is one of the city’s oldest suburbs. Set in the iconic 18th-century post office building, the Emerald Hill Heritage Centre sits alongside South Melbourne’s local library. The heritage centre focuses on aboriginal culture, local history research and Melbourne’s cultural heritage. Art and heritage exhibitions are also available throughout the year. The accompanying library also features frequent author talks, exhibitions and a comfortable outdoor setting to laze in the sun. Opening hours: Mon 10am-6pm, Tue 12pm-8pm, Wed 12pm-6pm, Thurs 12pm-6pm, Sat 10am-2pm

Emerald Hill Library and Heritage Centre, 195 Bank St, South Melbourne, VIC, Australia +61 3 9209 6611

By Jamal Ben Haddou

Jamal is studying journalism at Monash University in Melbourne. He loves all the food, music and culture this city has to offer so he thought he might as well write about it and share his experience. Jamal appreciates multiculturalism and talking to people about absolutely anything. You can follow him on Twitter, @jamal_ben1

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

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• 12 Things to do in East Melbourne, Melbourne

East Melbourne is known for hosting the  Melbourne Cricket Ground, and there simply is no separating East Melbourne from its relationship with top-flight Australian sport. 

But sport is not all that is on East Melbourne’s scorecard. This Melbourne neighborhood prides itself on a generous offering of green parks that give locals and visitors access to the natural world – all within walking distance of the CBD. 

East Melbourne also has an eclectic range of cultural sites, unique museums, and attractions that exist nowhere else in the world. 

To help decipher this intriguing neighborhood, here is  the  list of things to do in East Melbourne .

Table of Contents

Melbourne Cricket Ground 

Address: Brunton Ave, Richmond VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @mcg

There is no better way to begin breaking down the top things to do in East Melbourne than with the landmark that is the  Melbourne Cricket Ground  – or the  MCG , as it is colloquially known. The stadium is integral to Melbourne, not just the East Melbourne suburb. 

The MCG is the largest cricket stadium in the Southern Hemisphere, with a capacity of over 100,000 spectators. Contrary to its name, however, it hosts much more than just cricket matches. The  MCG  is also home to several Melbourne Aussie Rules teams: Collingwood, Hawthorn, Melbourne, and Richmond. Being a shared stadium among rivals makes the  MCG  an electric venue through the Aussie Rules season – April to September. 

Then, come October, cricket season begins. Fans can attend everything from Twenty20 formats to annual international Test matches played by the national men’s and women’s teams. 

As if cricket and Aussie rules weren’t enough, the  MCG  also sporadically hosts rugby fixtures – both international union and the domestic league – and football matches. Sports fans are truly spoiled for choice.

But it doesn’t stop there.  Melbourne Cricket Ground  also hosts a generous offering of non-sporting entertainment – world-famous bands and community events. 

The  MCG  is nothing short of a foundational pillar of Melbournian culture. It exists at the epicenter of many friendships and relationships: groups of Richmond supporters and cricket enthusiasts that feed their love of the game during the winter season. 

If there were ever anything considered non-negotiable when exploring East Melbourne, it would be visiting the  MCG. If you cannot attend a game, be sure to book an MCG Tour, which runs regularly between 10:00am and 3:00pm.

Fitzroy Gardens

Address: Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Melbourne makes a claim for itself as Australia’s ‘garden city,’ and  Fitzroy Gardens  exists in support of this statement.

Fitzroy Gardens provides 26 hectares of landscaped gardens just 1.5km from the very center of Melbourne’s CBD. Here, people step back from the concrete monotony and hustle of the inner city. It’s the perfect place for a family picnic or a park hang with friends, surrounded by the pleasantries of nature. The value of such proximity to open green spaces while still close to the city center cannot be understated. 

Few places in central Melbourne can even begin to equal the natural beauty of  Fitzroy Gardens  – it surely does separate itself as  the  park to visit near the CBD.

Parliament House

Address: Spring St, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @victorianparliament

East Melbourne is famed for hosting major sporting events. But the central neighborhood also earns significance as the home of Victoria’s Parliament –  Parliament House  being the epicenter of said Parliamentary district. 

Tourists with architectural interest will appreciate  Parliament House’s  columned façade, perhaps the most defining feature of the building constructed in 1856. 

History enthusiasts will find interest in the facility’s past. Melbourne’s  Parliament House  served as the meeting place for the Parliament of Australia between 1901 and 1927 – a period when Melbourne was the nation’s temporary capital. From 1928 to the present day, the building has remained just as the seat of the Victorian State Parliament. 

The free public tours that  Parliament House  hosts on non-sitting weeks are a great way to get a closer look at the inner workings of the Australian State Parliament. 

Cooks’ Cottage 

Address: Fitzroy Gardens, Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Cooks’ Cottage:  an English cottage deconstructed brick by brick and shipped to Melbourne in 253 cases and 40 barrels – now that is a unique story. Though, the intrigue does not end there. Before its grand voyage, the home was the family home of famous explorer James Cook – built and lived in by his parents, James and Grace Cook. 

Interestingly, Cooks’ Cottage is the oldest building in Australia, constructed in 1755 in Yorkshire, England. 

Cooks’ Cottage is an East Melbourne gem with its antiques, period-dressed volunteers, and depictions of Cook’s adventures. The Cottage nestles within the boundaries of  Fitzroy Gardens. 

The Scarred Tree and The Fairies Tree

Address: East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Let’s stay in  Fitzroy Gardens .

To prelude, when visiting Australia, it is greatly important to recognize the rightful and ancestral owners of the land – the Aboriginal peoples of Australia. That courtesy comes hand-in-hand with responsible and mindful travel. 

Fitzroy Gardens’  resident  Scar Tree  allows visitors to participate in this recognition and appreciation. The  Scar Tree  is one of many that exist within Victoria. It survives as a remembrance of Aboriginal life – Aboriginal people caused scars on trees when making canoes or shields. 

Fitzroy Gardens’ Scar Tree  is a landmark that should be on every traveller’s itinerary.

Then comes  The   Fairies Tree –  of less cultural importance but still a worthy East Melbourne landmark. The tree features a tapestry of intricate fantasy carvings ranging from fairies (of course) to gnomes, dwarfs, and even koalas and flying foxes.

In an effort to preserve  The Fairies Tree , the already dead trunk was extracted from the ground and treated with chemicals. It then was re-rooted in a concrete base to continue serving as an East Melbourne attraction.

The Tippler & Co.

Address: 58 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @tipplerandco

One of East Melbourne’s finest food and drink spots is The  Tippler & Co.  It’s one of the best spots for a pre- MCG  fuelling, a lunch with the whole family, or a midweek drink with friends.

Top tip:  The Tippler & Co.  holds happy hour from 5-7 pm during the week, and cocktails are a respectable $10 all day on Sundays.

From the Staff The favourite food is our Pan Fried Gnocchi! Made from Jones’ regenerative potatoes, sweet potato, sage burnt butter, lemon, pine nuts, chevre (v). All for $22 . Come by on Wednesdays for our 1/2 Price Gnocchi Night. – Gus at The Tippler & Co.

Fire Services Museum of Victoria

Address: 39 Gisborne St, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

A rather unique museum, the  Fire Services Museum of Victoria  opened to display the history of fire fighting in the state of Victoria. The museum holds Australia’s most extensive collection of fire bridge memorabilia – a collection of over 10,000 items. A visit to the museum accommodates both adults and children. 

Treasury Gardens

Address: 2-18 Spring St, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

East Melbourne continues its offering of relaxed, green spaces with  Treasury Gardens  – one of Victoria’s oldest public garden spaces that dates from the 1800s. The gardens themselves hold heritage listings and are noted for the avenues of trees that cross the walking paths. 

If you’ve already crossed  Fitzroy Gardens  off your itinerary,  Treasury Gardens  offer similar inner-city relaxation.

Heaven at the Hill

Address: 15 Gisborne St, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @heavenatthehill

Melbourne is known for its cafés. But  Heaven at the Hill  has accrued recognition for itself as a coffee caravan. 

You can find the not-for-profit social enterprise serving coffee and food on the corner of Gibson and Albert. Recognized as one of the top refueling spots in East Melbourne by the Australian Good Food Guide,  Heaven at the Hill  is a reliable option for anyone in the area. 

Australian Sports Museum 

Address: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Yarra Park, Gate 3 Brunton Ave, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @australiansportsmuseum

With East Melbourne’s affiliation with sport and the presence of the  MCG , it’s only fitting that visitors to the neighborhood should pay a visit to the resident  Australian Sports Museum. 

You can find the museum itself at the  MCG , so the walk from sporting history to live sports is short. With the emphasis on onsite interaction, the museum is ideal for all ages to celebrate sport’s involvement in Australian society. 

Geppetto Trattoria 

Address: 78A Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @geppettotrattoria

Melbourne has a strong Italian presence, something owed to inter and post-war immigration. Carlton’s Lygon Street is the epicenter, but there are also Italian institutions further afield. East Melbourne’s  Geppetto Trattoria  is one of those institutions.  

Since 1981, the family-run traditional trattoria has cooked authentic Italian dishes with fresh local ingredients. 

With its good food and humble atmosphere,  Geppetto’s  success is rightfully earned. 

The Johnston Collection

Address: 192 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia (Get Directions)

Social: @tjcmuseum

If arts and culture are on your mind in East Melbourne, visiting  The Johnston Collection  is a must. 

The   Johnston Collection  is a multi-award-winning museum and exhibition space with numerous collections of decorative arts. 

You can find the museum at its residence in Fairhall on Wellington Parade. 

Final Thoughts

The presence of the MCG dominates East Melbourne. But with the stadium’s stellar offering of top-tier action, its notoriety is deserved. There are genuinely few things to do in Melbourne that produce the atmosphere that a one-day cricket international, or a Hawthorn vs Richmond Aussie rules fixture, does. Attendance to Australia’s largest stadium is recommended, even essential. 

But in beautiful contrast to the electric intensity of the national sport, East Melbourne also offers several laidback green spaces to its visitors. With its size and onsite attractions,  Fitzroy Gardens  arguably holds the torch as  the  place to relax near the CBD. But you cannot forget places like Treasury Gardens either. 

East Melbourne can often get lost amongst the ranks of Melbournian neighborhoods due to its more easygoing demeanor. But the truth is, East Melbourne is an area of the city in perfect balance that warrants a visit all on its own.

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South Melbourne Attractions | 14 Top Things to do in South Melbourne and Surrounds

by Ashleigh Page Last Updated: Nov 4, 2023 Australia , Melbourne , Victoria

Page Contents

As soon as Melbourne lockdown ended, I was off! Straight to the city to explore and have some new adventures.

Personally, I’d never stayed in South Melbourne before, so I felt this would be the perfect place to base myself, just a short walk from many of the popular attractions and sites nearby.

In this article, I’ll be sharing my experience staying in and exploring South Melbourne. I’ll also list some of the top things to do in South Melbourne and its surrounding areas.

First I’ll start with things to do within the suburb of South Melbourne, then I’ll highlight some other activities that you can do in the city that are just a walking distance away.

Welcome to South Melbourne

South Melbourne is such a beautiful suburb to stay in if you want to explore the city, but away from all the hustle and bustle.

Known as one of Melbourne’s oldest suburbs, South Melbourne radiates charm, lush green leafy streets and pathways, old Victorian buildings, terrace houses and chic cafes, boutiques and restaurants.

South Melbourne is full of cultural diversity too which is really nice.

No matter your interests, I’m sure you’ll find tons of great things to do in South Melbourne and its surrounding suburbs.

Let’s now take a look at some of the most known attractions and activities you can do in this delightful suburb.

The Best Way to Get Around 

Depending on where you stay in South Melbourne, the best way to get around is to walk, drive or catch the tram.

A very cheap, easy and scenic way of getting around. This is one of my favourite ways to explore South Melbourne and its surrounding areas as so much of it is within walking distance.

For example:

• South Melbourne Market is around a 0.5km / 10 minute walk within South Melbourne
• Southbank is only a 1km /15 minute walk away
• The Botanic Gardens is only a 1-2km /30 min walk away
• Melbourne CBD is a 3km /30-40 minute walk away

Obviously, it does depend on where in South Melbourne you stay, but in general, everything is pretty close by.

If you have a car, you will find plenty of 2-4 hour parking spots available. Most of it is paid (between $1-3 dollars per hour), however if you’re lucky, you may find some free spots.

If you don’t want to move your car every 2 hours and are located near St Kilda Road, I’d suggest taking advantage of the 4 hour parking at the Royal Botanic Gardens (along Birdwood Avenue).

It costs around $1.20 per hour, which is cheaper than many the other parking locations the area.

Ensure to download the convenient PayStay parking app beforehand so you can organise payment of your parking and top ups, without having to go to your car or put coins into a meter.

Catching the tram from South Melbourne is pretty easy with various tram routes that pass through the suburb and along St Kilda Road.

Depending on where you want to go, you can jump onto:

• Route 1 – Which is the South Melbourne Beach Route
• Route 12 – Which goes to and from Victoria Gardens and St Kilda
• Route 58 – Which goes to and from West Coburg and Toorak

You can view and download a copy of the Melbourne tram network and relevant maps here .

Keep in mind that you will need to purchase a Myki public transport card s o that you can tap off and tap off.

7 Top Things to Do in South Melbourne

South Melbourne is such an incredible region of Melbourne to explore.

Over the next sections I will outline the top things to do in South Melbourne and its surrounds, particularly for adventurous travellers and locals!

You can also check out their relative locations on the map below.

1) Escape Room Melbourne

Keen to test your puzzle solving skills or simply have some fun with a group of friends?

Why not head over to Escape Room Melbourne , the first escape room in Australia.

If you’re an adventurous soul looking for adventurous things to do in South Melbourne, this should be at the top of your list.

Created by Ali Cheetham and Owen Spear, two designers with PhDs in psychology, you will get up to 70 minutes to escape from one of their three themed rooms:

• Mine Escape – In this room, you will need to help bring your friends to safety after being stuck in a mine. The question is, can you get them out in time? This room is recommended for groups of 2-6 people.
• Fractured – In this room, you will enter the mind of Robert, a World War 2 war veteran, who has fallen into a coma. To get out you must spark his consciousness by reconnecting his most important memories.
• Kellar’s Magic Emporium – In this room, you’ve been shortlisted for the role of Magician’s Assistant. You will therefore need to solve a series of puzzles to prove your magical skill.

The owners of Escape Room Melbourne are extremely passionate about puzzles, narrative, and immersion. Supposedly, they spend between 6-12 months designing and building each experience.

You will have 70 minutes to find the clues and unravel the hidden mystery of your room by solving a variety of quirky and inventive puzzles in order to escape!

All I can say is, good luck!

2) South Melbourne Market

If you’re into all things food, crafts and shopping then you’ll want to add this market to your list of cool things to do in South Melbourne.

The South Melbourne market is renowned for having some of the country’s freshest produce, which makes is the perfect place to stock up on groceries for the duration of your stay.

If you prefer to eat out, you will find an abundance of international cuisine and unique foods at the various food stalls and stores.

You can also shop for boutique items such as homewares, clothes, jewellery, wine, plants and more at the market.

Only a short walk from most places in South Melbourne, you will be able to visit the market on Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 8am-4pm.

3) Portable Iron Houses

I must admit, I was a bit bummed that I didn’t manage to get across to these when I was exploring South Melbourne. These three portable iron houses provide a cool insight into life during the Gold Rush era.

They are among the last nineteenth-century prefabricated iron buildings, with South Melbourne being one of the few remaining places in the world to see them.

In Victoria, gold was discovered around 1851 attracting a flock of migrants to the area – all needing some form of accommodation. This is what initiated the portable house to be built. By 1855, there were up to 100 portable buildings located in South Melbourne.

Of these, Patterson House is the only one left on its original site today. The other two portable houses; Abercrombie House and Bell House; were relocated to the current sites from North Melbourne and Fitzroy.

If interested in witnessing this awesome piece of Melbourne history, you will find them behind South Melbourne Market on Coventry Street, just before Montague Street.

Unfortunately, they are only open for public viewings at certain times of the year, however you can still admire the exterior at the following address:

• 399 Coventry Street, South Melbourne, VIC, 3025

The houses are often open for inspection as part of the Australian Heritage Festival which takes place between Sunday 25 th of April to Sunday 2 nd of May, between 1-4pm.

Entry usually costs around $6 AUD per person, but best to check on their site for the most up to date information.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Robert Ranclaud (@rjrfromoz)

4) Coventry Street

If you love boutique stores, good food and browsing, Coventry Street is the place to go. A popular thing to do in South Melbourne, you will not be short of activities here.

Given it is located close to South Melbourne Market, you may as well kill two birds with one stone by visiting them both in the same day.

5) South Melbourne Town Hall

One of the most significant landmarks in South Melbourne, this treasure is located right in the middle of the suburb’s streets and is walking distance from most locations.

Built in 1879, South Melbourne Town Hall is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.

If you love admiring the detail of Victorian architecture, there’s a convenient park bench located just outside the building on a small patch of grass ( actually where the below photo was taken).

Depending on the season, you’ll also get to sit amongst the colourful rose garden. This is a great way to view the building whilst enjoying a snack or having a picnic.

These days, the building is home to the Australian National Academy of Music , however you can usually get a look inside between the hours of 9am-4pm Monday – Sunday.

6) See Yup Temple

The See Yup Temple was built back in 1856, as a place to worship for the See Yup community who were settling in Melbourne during this time.

The temple reflects a combination of Chinese and European architecture and contains oriental décor and various hand-crafted artefacts from China.

There seems to be mixed information online as to whether non-Chinese people can enter inside the temple.

Even if you can’t go inside, you’ll definitely be able to admire and appreciate the unique exterior of this temple from the street.

So why not add it to your walking route through South Melbourne.

7) Smart Artz Gallery

I didn’t get to visit this gallery during my stay, however this gallery appears to be a pretty cool place to check out.

Formerly an industrial warehouse, it has been transformed into the chic modern gallery that it is today. It also hosts art exhibitions throughout the year.

If you love art, or just feel like being adventurous and trying something new, you can read more about the gallery here .

7 Top Things to Do in the Surrounding Suburbs

1) royal botanic gardens victoria.

If you love nature and adventure, exploring the lush green biodiversity of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is definitely one of the top things to do near South Melbourne.

Only a short walk across the road, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is one of Melbourne’s greatest treasures and has been around for over 170 years.

The garden spans an impressive 38 hectares and houses a collection of more than 8,500 species of plants from all over the world.

Some examples include camellias, rainforest flora, cacti and succulents, roses, perennials and many more.

Inside the gardens and along its perimeter, you can enjoy:

• 10km of walking tracks
• 6km of cycling tracks
• Self-guided walks
• Picturesque picnic spots
• Public BBQs along the Yarra River Reserve
• Playgrounds
• Exhibitions and events during the year including the Moonlight Cinema.

In my opinion, some of the most beautiful picnic spots are located beside:

• Central Lake (The Taxodium Lawn)
• The Yarra River Linear Reserve (Next to Alexandra Avenue).

It’s true that you can spend hours, if not days, wandering through the gardens.

There are also various historical attractions in the area including:

• The Shrine of Remembrance – A shrine dedicated to commemorating those who fought in World War I with memorials, exhibitions and gardens.
• Government House – Opened in 1876, and currently the official residence of the Governor of Victoria.
• Melbourne Observatory – Located on the hill adjacent to the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. It was constructed between 1861-63 and continued to expand until 1902. In 1965 it was eventually decommissioned from Government. Up until then, the buildings were used for weather forecasting, time setting, setting weights and measures standards and for the surveying of Victoria.

If this is your first time exploring Melbourne, this should be one of the top things you do.

2) Run Around The Tan

If you enjoy fitness, running along the Tan Track is one of the best things to do.

Bordering the Royal Botanic Gardens, this is Melbourne’s most popular running track and will give you the chance to enjoy stunning scenery including:

• Tree-lined roads
• Views of the Yarra River
• Skyline views of the city

It is predominately flat except for one uphill section (on Anderson St) and contains various drinking fountains along the trail. It is therefore suited for people of all fitness levels.

To my surprise, The Tan was originally built as a horse racing track and was named after the tan bark surfacing of the original track.

I must admit, as a local, I  didn’t even know this. I thought it was called “The Tan” due to surrounding the BoTANic Gardens.

You learn something new every day!

3) Victoria Barracks

The Victoria Barracks is located on St Kilda Road and is one of the most impressive 19th century government buildings in Victoria.

Some of its earliest buildings date back to the late 1850’s, with the original bluestone buildings constructed between 1856 and 1872.

Before World War II, the Victoria Barracks were used as accommodation for British Imperial Garrison troops.

Since then, it has been used by the Australian War Cabinet, Defence Force and acted as the administrative headquarters for the Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy, the Royal Australian Air Force and the Australian Federal Police.

4) The National Gallery of Victoria

The National Gallery of Victoria , commonly called the NGV, is Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum. Founded in 1861, it contains a spectacular range of artworks from all different eras and geographical locations.

Currently the gallery holds a permanent Collection of more than 75,000 works, showcasing the history and development of Australian, Indigenous and international art, design and architecture.

As it grows and evolves, the Collection embraces and reflects diversity in cultural identities, artistic practices and geographies with the intention to connect art and people.

They also host a variety of exhibitions each year to showcase artists from all over the world.

Entry to the main galleries and displays is FREE so you may as well head on down to the NGV and let it take you on an adventure through art.

4) Southbank & South Wharf  

If you love the combination of great food with stunning city skylines, Southbank must be added to your list of top things to do in South Melbourne and surrounds.

Just a short walk from the suburb of South Melbourne, you will be BLOWN away by the views along this riverside promenade and dining area.

Attracting sophisticated crowds, no matter the season, you will be able to enjoy:

• Fine dining at one of the many riverside restaurants
• A cocktail at one of the nearby bars (I definitely recommend Arbory or Riverland Bar)
• Spectacular views of the Melbourne CBD skyline
• Street artists and buskers
• Plays and music theatre performances at the Malthouse Theatre and Melbourne Recital Centre.

Southbank would have to be one of my favourite places in Melbourne. My partner and I recently treated ourselves to Teppanyaki at a place called Miyako . It was delicious!

4) South Melbourne Beaches

If planning a trip to South Melbourne or its surrounding areas in Summer, it would be worth organising a day trip to explore the South Melbourne Beaches.

Located on the south coast of the city, some of the most popular beaches include:

• Port Melbourne Beach
• Middle Park Beach
• St Kilda Beach

There’s a walking path along Beaconsfield Parade which allows you to easily walk between the beaches at your leisure to find the perfect spot to lay your towel.

It also gives off “Florida” vibes with palm trees lining the main road, long piers, dog walkers and roller-bladers. You can also walk down the nearby Princes and Lagoon Pier to take some nice photos.

There are various public toilets around this area, however there always seems to be queues at the lady’s – typical…

I was surprised to find that there’s not many food places near the beach, other than the Sand Bar which just offers takeaway snacks (Eg. fish and chips).

If you get hungry, I suggest walking up Victoria Avenue where you will find various restaurants and cafes options.

If you don’t have a car, the best way to get to the beaches from South Melbourne is to catch the Zone 1 Tram , which has tram stops along Victoria Avenue, or to walk.

5) Albert Park Lake

If you’re looking for adventurous things to do near South Melbourne, Albert Park Lake is a nice place to venture to.

Just 3km from the centre of Melbourne, it is home to a plethora of events including:

• Cycling events
• Pet-friendly meet-ups, and the iconic
• Australian Grand Prix.

Whilst at Albert Park Lake you can hire a boat, try out the indoor sports facilities or fitness gym at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre, and even sign up for some sailing or rowing lessons.

You can also admire impressive views of the city from the lake.

The Best Places to Eat in South Melbourne

If staying in South Melbourne, you’ll have no issue finding great spots to eat.

As mentioned above, we had a great time eating out and treating ourselves to some Teppanyaki in Southbank at Miyako .

No matter where you’re located, you’re sure to find a plethora of different restaurants and cafes to indulge in.

The best way to find places is to simply look on Google Maps, however you can also venture to the South Melbourne Market for some yummy international cuisine.

You can also check out some recommendations on Broadsheet .

In Summary:

So, there you have it!

14 Top things to do in South Melbourne and its Surrounding areas.

•   Escape Room Melbourne
• South Melbourne Market
• Portable Iron Houses
• Coventry Street
• South Melbourne Town Hall
• See Yup Temple
• Smart Artz Gallery
• Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
• Run Around The Tan Track
• Victoria Barracks
• The National Gallery of Victoria
• Southbank & South Wharf 
• South Melbourne Beaches
• Albert Park Lake

I hope that this article has given you some inspiration into things you can enjoy doing in this glorious suburb within the inner skirts of Melbourne.

Happy travelling!

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75 Best Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

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Consistently voted as one of the world’s most liveable cities, magnificent Melbourne is a melting pot of vibrant art, home-grown music, and fabulous food influenced by cultures near and far. The Victorian capital lives and breathes sport; hosts world-class events like the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Australian Grand Prix, Australian Open, and the AFL Grand Final; and boasts pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and natural hot springs within arm’s reach.

Take a stroll down Hosier Lane for some world-famous street art or wander through Degraves Street, awash with cafes and unique boutiques. Climb aboard for a ride on the historic City Circle tram and step back in time to Melbourne of yesteryear, or head to the Royal Botanical Gardens, where you’ll discover an oasis of native flora and fauna.

Outside of the city proper, each individual suburb showcases its own distinct personality. From the beachside playgrounds of St Kilda to the hipster haven of Fitzroy, or the non-stop nightlife in Prahran, there’s something for everyone in Melbourne.

How will you explore this marvelous metropolis? Let’s dive into this all-you-need-to-know rundown and uncover the treasures of this truly unique city — and before you know it, you’ll have a list of your own quintessential tourist attractions in Melbourne to tick off, one by one.

Whether it’s your first visit to Melbourne or you’re a local who’s looking for new things to explore, this city won’t disappoint.

1 – National Gallery of Victoria

Boasting free entry and an impressive collection of location and international art, the National Gallery of Victoria is considered a top-notch rainy-day destination for culture vultures.

Take time to wander through its vast selection of permanent exhibits — ranging from contemporary art to Indigenous work, and European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century — indulge in its ever-changing line-up of temporary exhibitions, or take part in one of its special art tours.

For those who love a good bargain, the NGV regularly hosts weekend markets on the forecourt near its infinite waterfall walls, where you can find handcrafted goods and vintage collectibles.

There are two galleries located in different parts of the city; one at Federation Square at The Ian Potter Centre and another (the main drawer) in St Kilda Road.

2 – Melbourne Cricket Ground

Arguably the world’s greatest stadium, The Melbourne Cricket Ground (The MCG – or just “the G”, as locals call it) is an iconic Australian sports venue steeped in history.

Since its construction in 1853, this colosseum has hosted countless events, including the 1956 Summer Olympics and the 2006 Commonwealth Games, and is capable of fitting over 100,000 people in its stands.

In the summertime, cricket fans flock for Test and ODI matches, while in winter it’s filled with football fans cheering on their favorite AFL teams. And if you happen to be visiting during September, a packed house for an AFL final offers an unmatched atmosphere.

Beyond the events themselves, visitors can also take a tour of the stadium or check out the National Sports Museum. Either way, a trip to the G is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

• Melbourne Cricket Ground tickets

3 – Werribee Open Range Zoo

Conveniently located just a 30-minute drive outside of the city, Werribee Open Range Zoo offers a unique safari experience where you can witness all kinds of animals — lions, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, emus, meerkats, hippos, monkeys, and more — roaming free in expansive paddocks.

This sprawling 225-hectare park is split into different zones, each with its own set of friendly, furry residents. Wander around the African Savannah and see if you can spot some baboons or elephants; join the ‘Early Morning Savannah Experience’ to see rhinos and giraffes up close as they wake up; or hop aboard the safari train for a ride through the grasslands and watch as zebras, ostriches, emus, and more run alongside you.

With a handful of free keeper talks throughout the day (koalas, meerkats, gorillas, and the like), this zoo promises a great day out for the whole family.

• Werribee Open Range Zoo tickets

4 – Luna Park Melbourne

As one of the oldest (and most famous) tourist attractions in Melbourne, Luna Park’s unmissable clown face entrance has greeted visitors since 1912. Sitting on the St Kilda foreshore, a stone’s throw from the cake shops on Ackland Street and the sands of St Kilda Beach, Luna Park is home to over 20 different rides, some of which have been around since it opened over a century ago.

While the Wild Mouse and Pharoah’s Curse (the scissors) are sure to deliver a thrill, it’s the Great Scenic Railway that takes the take. This heritage-listed wooden roller coaster holds the title of the oldest continually-operating roller coaster in the world and offers stunning views of Port Phillip Bay.

When you’re done with the rides, grab a snack from one of the concession stands or try your hand at one of the midway games.

Keep in mind: Luna Park is free to enter, just pay for any rides!

5 – Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Melbourne is a bustling city, but you don’t have to go far to find a tranquil oasis. Enter the 38-hectare Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – located in inner-city South Yarra, offering beautiful green spaces filled with native trees, plants, birds, and wildlife.

The perfect spot for a picnic or leisurely stroll, the hilly gardens showcase a range of stunning sculptures, monuments, and plant arrangements — plus a rainforest walk, a lake, and a cactus and succulent garden. Be sure to check out the National Herbarium, home to over 600,000 plant specimens from around the world, or perhaps take a guided tour with one of their knowledgeable volunteers.

During the summertime, the gardens come alive with outdoor events, including twilight concerts, plays in the park, and movie screenings – so check out the website to see what’s on during your visit.

Hot tip: take a walk around “The Tan”, which laps the Botanical Gardens as well as the Shrine of Remembrance and the Sydnye Myer Music Bowl — this track is a favorite amongst both locals and visitors alike.

6 – Scienceworks

Beloved by families and school groups alike, Scienceworks is an interactive science museum that brings the wonders of scientific discovery to life. Here you can explore over 200 hands-on exhibits and displays, including a lightning room with more than five million volts of electricity; the Think Ahead gallery featuring futuristic technologies; and the SportsWorks section, where you can race against a virtual Cathy Freeman.

On the site of Scienceworks, you’ll also find Pumping Station, an old (yep, you guessed it) water pumping station that has been converted into a museum — where you can explore how Melbourne’s water supply changed over time or join one of the free tours.

Don’t miss the planetarium either — shows run every day and cover a range of topics, from in-depth space exploration to outer space kids’ cartoons.

7 – Eureka Tower Skydeck

Home to Melbourne’s highest observation platform, at a whopping 285 meters high, the Eureka Tower Skydeck offers unrivaled views of Melbourne and its vast surroundings — from the city skyline to the north to Port Phillip Bay to the south, and the winding Yarra River snaking its way through the suburbs.

The Edge Experience — a glass cube that projects out over the edge of the building — will have your heart racing as you step into it for an even better view. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Phillip Island! The Skydeck also has interactive displays detailing Melbourne’s history, making this not just exhilarating, but educational too.

While the viewing deck sits on the 88th floor, you can take the lift even higher — to the 89th floor for an exclusive fine dining restaurant… talk about romance!

• Eureka Tower Skydeck tickets

8 – Federation Square

Smack bang in the center of Melbourne, Federation Square is a vibrant hub of culture and entertainment — bringing together galleries, restaurants, bars, shops, and theatres under one roof.

Right across the road from the historic Flinders Street Station, the unique architectural design of Fed Square makes it an instantly recognizable sight — comprised of a series of interconnecting buildings made from glass, steel, and sandstone.

The public plaza hosts free events year-round — including live music performances, art installations and sporting events on the big screen. And with the National Gallery of Victoria’s Ian Potter Centre, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) and the Koorie Heritage Trust on site, there’s plenty to keep you entertained here.

9 – Yarra River cruise

A relaxing, informative and fun way to explore Melbourne, a Yarra River cruise is the perfect way to take in the sights of this beautiful city, from the bright lights of Southbank to the MCG, Docklands and more.

There are plenty of cruises on offer — from leisurely sightseeing cruises complete with commentary about Melbourne’s history, culture and top landmarks; to sunset dinner cruises, enhanced with gourmet food and drinks; or party boats, with open bars and music to get your groove on.

Hot tip: if you want a private Yarra River boat tour without breaking the bank, consider renting a GoBoat – these self-driven boats can fit up to eight people, and you don’t need a boat license to drive them.

• boat tours in Melbourne

10 – Melbourne Museum

Tucked away just north of the CBD in historic Carlton (home to the city’s best Italian restaurants), the 70,000-square-meter Melbourne Museum is overflowing with insights about the city’s past, present and future — spanning science, history, technology, migration, art and culture.

Across8 galleries spread over 6 floors, you can explore ancient Aboriginal artifacts at the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, get up close with some of Australia’s most unique wildlife (including an eight-meter-long skeleton of a blue whale, or legendary racehorse Phar Lap’s taxidermied body), or join a guided tour to uncover some of Melbourne’s hidden stories.

The Dinosaur Walk, full of larger-than-life dinosaur skeletons, is a must-see for kids and adults alike. And don’t forget to wrap up your visit with a stop at the gift shop — it’s full of awesome Melbourne-inspired souvenirs!

The vast museum also houses an IMAX theatre — you can take in full feature films, documentaries and educational films from around the world.

11 – Royal Exhibition Building

Erected in 1880, the Royal Exhibition Building (not to be confused with the Royal Melbourne Exhibition Centre) is a prime example of the great exhibition halls of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

This UNESCO World Heritage-listed building hosts major events and exhibitions year-round, from the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show to GABS (the Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular), and is located in the heart of Carlton Gardens, just a stone’s throw from Melbourne Museum.

Fun fact: Did you know that the first Parliament of Australia was held in the building’s main hall in 1901? You can also take a tour of the building’s interior to explore the impressive architectural design.

12 – Great Ocean Road

Arguably the country’s most scenic drive, the Great Ocean Road is a 243-kilometer stretch of coastline that winds from Torquay to the historic fishing village of Port Fairy in southwestern Victoria, passing through some of Australia’s most beautiful towns, beaches and forests.

The Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, Gibson Steps, and the Twelve Apostles headline the most revered landmarks here — but there’s so much more to the Great Ocean Road than these postcard-perfect coastal spots.

Take a break from the road and explore some of Victoria’s beautiful bushwalks in the Otway National Park, or carve some time to stop in Anglesea or Lorne for a dip in the ocean or a bite of lunch.

• Great Ocean Road tours

13 – St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Standing tall since 1858, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture and, remarkably, is the largest church building in Australia.

The expansive interior is awe-inspiring, and the countless stained glass windows that line the walls depict stories from the Bible and the history of the Catholic Church.

Make sure to take a few moments to admire the grand organ, which is one of the largest in Australia and has played an important part in religious ceremonies over its 150-year lifespan.

Services are held every day and the cathedral is free to enter.

14 – Queen Victoria Market

Chaotic in the best possible way, Queen Victoria Market is a Melbourne icon, and has been an integral part of the city since 1878.

From fresh produce to trinkets and souvenirs, you’ll find all sorts of interesting things here — and there’s plenty more than just shopping! Take some time to explore the market’s nooks and crannies, listen to the buskers, grab a bite from one of the many food stalls, or join in one of their guided tours.

Don’t forget to check out the night market on Wednesdays — with an extra dose of live entertainment, food trucks and illuminated art installations, it adds an extra touch of magic.

• Queen Victoria Market tours

15 – City Circle Tram

The Melbourne tram is as iconic as the city itself. And while many of the city’s routes and streetcars have been modernized over the years, the City Circle Tram remains true to its original design.

What makes it so special? Well, apart from being completely free to ride, the tourist-focused tram takes you around some of Melbourne’s most famous sights — including Parliament House, Queen Victoria Market, Flinders Street Station, Docklands and St Paul’s Cathedral.

Hop on and off at any of the designated stops, or go for a lap and get your bearings on the city while enjoying the fully narrated journey.

16 – ArtVo ‘museum’

Far from your traditional museum, ArtVo is an interactive ‘immersive gallery’ located in Melbourne’s Docklands that allows visitors to step into the artworks — quite literally!

The gallery features a range of large-scale installations and optical illusions, all of which are designed to be photographed.

With over 100 3D art installations and trick-art pieces, ranging from riding dolphins to hoverboarding through outer space, you’re sure to walk away with a stack of impressive photos.

While you’re in the area, consider catching a movie at HOYTS or lacing on the skates at O’Brien Icehous – both located just around the corner.

17 – Healesville Sanctuary

Providing a welcomed breath of fresh air from the hustle and bustle of the city, Healesville Sanctuary is a great place to explore Victoria’s native flora and fauna.

Situated in the heart of the Yarra Valley, about an hour’s drive from the city, this gorgeous sanctuary offers visitors a chance to get up close with some of Australia’s most infamous animals — including koalas, kangaroos, dingos, wombats and echidnas.

A must-see is the Sanctuary’s 80-meter-long treetop walk, which offers a rare bird’s-eye perspective of the habitats. Likewise, the free daily shows (such as Spirits of the Sky) and informative keeper talks are a great way to learn about the local wildlife.

• Healesville Sanctuary tours

18 – Brighton Bathing Boxes

Finding themselves on thousands of postcards and Instagram feeds, the Brighton Bathing Boxes are awash with color and character.

A staple of the beachfront, these 82 small wooden boxes have been part of Brighton’s landscape since the late 1800s when they were first used for changing into swimwear – and today, many are still in use as private beach huts. So while you can’t use them for yourself, you can still admire their charm and snap a few tourist photos in front of the Aussie flag box.

19 – Westgate Park (pink lake)

Just under Melbourne’s biggest bridge, Westgate Park remains somewhat of a hidden gem, tucked away between industrial warehouses.

Complete with picnic grounds, playgrounds and walking tracks, it’s a great spot for families to visit — but the main attraction is certainly the color of its lake!

Depending on the level of salt and algae, the lake can often appear bright pink. A stunning sight to behold, it’s a unique place to take photos and explore Melbourne’s green spaces without venturing too far from the city.

20 – Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI)

One of the non-negotiable tourist attractions in Melbourne for film buffs, gamers, photographers and tech-lovers alike, ACMI is the place to be for all things digital interactive.

Located at Federation Square, this interactive museum explores Australia’s rich film history alongside its current digital culture — with thousands of movies, television shows, computer games and photography archives on display.

The Story of the Moving Image exhibit showcases costumes, cameras and props from iconic Aussie films, while the interactive games room and virtual reality lounge are great for tech enthusiasts.

While free to enter, some special events do require a ticket – but trust us, it’ll be well worth the few dollarydoos.

Read more: 62 Fun Indoor Activities in Melbourne when it Rains

21 – Puffing Billy Railway

Ready for a ride down nostalgia lane with a century-old steam train journey through the stunning Dandenong Ranges?

The Puffing Billy Railway, which has been running since 1900, is a narrow-gauge track that operates daily from Belgrave to Gembrook — it’s a step back in time and a breath of fresh air in one of Victoria’s most beautiful forested regions.

This heritage railway offers a 25-kilometer round trip through lush fern gullies and towering forests and it takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete the full journey.

While you’re in the area, take a hike through the Dandenong Ranges National Park (the 1000 Steps Kokoda Walk is a must), check out the charming mountaintop towns of Olinda and Sassafras (don’t miss the sweet shop!), or soak in the view from SkyHigh Mount Dandenong.

• Puffing Billy Railway tours

22 – Flinders Street Station

As the busiest railway station in Victoria and the oldest nationwide, Flinders Street Station is an iconic landmark at a popular meeting place for locals (under the clocks). Far more than just a transit hub, it’s famous for its beautiful architecture, including the famous analog clocks and arched entranceway. That said, it does connect all of Melbourne’s train lines, as well as several trams and buses — so it could be a great starting point for your sightseeing adventure.

Thanks to its location adjacent to Federation Square, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Yarra River, even if you’re not catching the train, there’s a good chance you’ll walk past it – especially on any of the Melbourne free walking tours.

23 – SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

One of the top Melbourne tourist attractions for traveling families looking for a daytime activity, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is an underwater wonderland beloved by kids and kids at heart.

Just a short walk from Flinder Street or Southern Cross station (and a stop on the City Circle tram), the aquarium is home to over 10,000 animals, including sharks, rays, turtles, all kinds of colorful fish, and cute-as-a-button penguins, spread across no fewer than 12 interactive zones.

Curious visitors can walk through the underwater tunnels and watch the sea creatures swim overhead, come face to face with Pinjarra (one of Australia’s largest saltwater crocodiles) or learn about the importance of conservation at one of the daily shows.

The touch pools are always a hit with the kids, likewise the 4-D Cinema Experience, Penguin Playground and Interactive Wonder Wall!

• Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium tickets

24 – State Library Victoria

Bookworms, research aficionados and history buffs, rejoice — this is no ordinary library.

The State Library Victoria is the oldest public library in Australia (founded back in 1854) and holds an impressive collection of over two million books, periodicals, manuscripts, photographs and more than a million digital resources, not to mention exhibitions on Ned Kelly, the Royal Flying Doctors and much more.

Designed to be a space for learning and exploration, it’s home to several distinct spaces, each with its own flair — the Pauline Gandel Children’s Quarter is designed for little readers and budding writers, the Cowen Gallery showcases the Library’s rarest and most treasured items, and the Ian Potter Queen’s Hall is lined with soaring columns and twinkling chandeliers. Arguably the crown jewel, however, is the octagonal La Trobe Reading Roe (AKA The Dome), a stunning 19th-century reading that was inspired by the reading room at the British Museum

Not only is it a great place to get some work done (hello free wifi!), but this marvelous building also offers chess boards, book clubs, author talks and even free guided tours — so make sure to check out what’s on during your visit.

25 – Australian Centre for Contemporary Art

A heavily underrated Melbourne tourist attraction, ACCA is located in Southbank (right around the corner from the NGV and Hamer Hall) and is free to enter. Its modern home was opened in 2002 and showcases cutting-edge works from local and international contemporary artists – think installations, multimedia displays and interactive experiences.

The Centre’s mission is “to Do Art Differently”, and once you’ve stepped inside and seen the exhibitions (which change regularly), you’ll soon realize that ‘different’ is an understatement. One moment you’re admiring First People’s art, the next you’re in a room filled with neon signs or taking part in Sonic Meditation, and that’s only scratching the surface.

ACCA also hosts workshops for children, teens and adults, as well as talks and debates – so whatever your interest level in the arts, you’ll find something that piques it.

Hot tip: Head to the Centre on Sunday at 3 PM for a free guided tour from one of the knowledgeable Visitor Experience Team members.

26 – St Kilda Pier

By day, St Kilda Pier is one of the best places in Melbourne to take a stroll, soak up some sun and enjoy the views – from here, you can see Port Phillip Bay as it curves down the coastline, catch a glimpse of the towering CBD buildings, or watch the Spirit of Tasmania cruise ship make its way in and out of the harbor.

At the end of the pier, you’ll also find a heritage-listed kiosk (the St Kilda Pier Kiosk), a great spot for a coffee and snack to refuel.

Come sundown, however, this pier turns into one of the best places to spot Little Penguins in all of Australia — so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for their signature waddle! (Sure, Phillip Island has the Penguin Parade, but these guys live right here in St Kilda, so it’s a much more convenient experience!)

27 – Yarra Valley wine tour

Where in Melbourne do rolling hills, lush vineyards and fine wines come together? That would be the picture-perfect Yarra Valley! Just 45 minutes east of Melbourne, this region is home to more than 80 wineries and produces some of Australia’s best cool-climate blends.

The perfect way to explore it all? A guided wine tour! With a passionate guide by your side, you’ll learn about the region’s history, sample local delicacies and sip your way through some of the best wines in Australia. Think bold Cabernet Sauvignons, crisp Chardonnays and rosés that will transport you to the French Riviera.

With many of the wineries offering on-site restaurants and cellar door tastings, you’ll be able to learn about the Valley’s diverse terroir in style.

Tours range from half-day trips to combination tours (with Healesville Sanctuary of the Four Pillars Gin Distillery) to weekend getaways — so whatever type of experience you’re after, there’s something for everyone.

Already visited the Yarra Valley? A range of other wine tours from Melbourne is available that venture to places like the Morning Peninsula, South Gippsland, Macedon, and beyond

• Yarra Valley tours

28 – Immigration Museum

Melbourne is as multicultural as it gets. Over 250 languages are spoken in the city and (as of 2022) 49% of Victorians were either born overseas or have a parent who was born overseas — so it’s only fitting that this vibrant place should be home to the Immigration Museum .

Located at Melbourne’s iconic Old Customs House on Flinders Street (built in 1876), this museum tells the stories of migrants who have arrived in Australia since the 1800s. From its interactive audio-visual displays and permanent galleries, to its special exhibitions — here you’ll find stories of hardship, hope and homecoming that are sure to move and inspire you.

The Immigration Museum also hosts a range of talks and activities (such as art classes or film screenings) throughout the year – so it’s recommended to check their website before visiting to see what’s on.

29 – Chinatown

Dumplings, noodles, bubble tea and more — Chinatown is the perfect spot to get a taste of authentic Asian culture.

Always bustling with life, this colorful part of Melbourne — located right in the heart of the city on Little Bourke Street — is full of surprises. From its iconic red gates to its intricate laneways lined with hip cafes and trendy bars (Section 8, Ferdydurke) and the educational Museum of Chinese Australian History — here, you’ll find an exciting mix of old-meets-new.

Hungry? When it comes to food, you won’t be able to resist the array of Chinese restaurants serving up everything from dim sum and Sichuan dishes to Cantonese classics like char siu bao (barbecue pork buns).

For a rowdy, BYO value meal, head to Shanghai Village; or for something a bit more upmarket, try one of Chinatown’s fine-dining restaurants or teahouses like Hutong Dumpling Bar, Flower Drum or China Chilli (an all-you-can-eat Sichuan joint).

30 – St Paul’s Cathedral

While not as large or as ornate as St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St Paul’s Cathedral is impossible to miss thanks to its location at the Flinders Street and Swanston Street intersection – right next to Fed Square and Flinders St Station.

With its spire towering 95 above the busy walkways, this grand neo-Gothic cathedral has been a part of Melbourne’s landscape since the mid 1800s, serving as one the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Inside you’ll find stained glass windows, impressive vaulted ceilings and light fixtures that cast an ethereal glow — making it a place of calming relaxation amidst the city’s busiest intersection.

Welcoming over 400,000 visitors a year, the cathedral is free to visit — if you’d like a guided tour, these can be booked for groups of 5 people or more and come with the expectation of a $5 donation per person.

31 – Grampians National park

Covering an area of 168,000 hectares in Victoria’s west, the Grampians National Park (Gariwerd, the Aboriginal name) is one of Australia’s most stunning outdoor playgrounds.

Renowned for their towering sandstone mountains and spectacular waterfalls, The Grampians offers a slew of bushwalks through wildflower-filled valleys and forests; camping sites with panoramic views; and lookouts (such as ‘The Balconies’) that show off the park’s spectacular beauty.

In addition to its breathtaking landscapes, The Grampians is also home to 80% of Victoria’s Aboriginal rock art sites — some of which date back thousands of years!

For adventurers, the park is home to numerous walking trails — if you’re not sure where to start, the popular Pinnacle Walk takes you to one of the most stunning lookout points in the region, while the Mount William (Duwul) trek takes you to the park’s highest point.

With a near-infinite list of activities, a guided tour of the Grampians is a wonderful way to see the highlights without getting lost in its vastness!

• Grampians National park tours

32 – Old Melbourne Gaol

Located in the heart of Melbourne (within walking distance of many other popular attractions, including Queen Victoria Market and Melbourne Central), the Old Melbourne Gaol is one of Australia’s most notorious prisons.

Originally built to house criminals from 1842 and operational until 1929, this historic jail has seen more than its fair share of death and despair — but now it serves as a museum dedicated to sharing the stories behind some of Australia’s most infamous criminals, including the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly. Today, visitors can take a guided tour of the gaol, which includes the opportunity to see original cells, explore the gallows, and hear fascinating stories about the lives and crimes of the prisoners who once walked its halls

Feeling brave? Old Melbourne Gaol offers several different tours, including a night tour and a ghost tour, which are not for the faint of heart (or kids).

33 – Hot air balloon ride

At street level, Melbourne is a cacophony of attractions and activities — but from the sky, it’s a different story altogether.

Typically taking place at sunrise, Melbourne hot air balloon rides invite travelers to soar high above the city and take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges in the distance. Typically lasting between 1-2 hours, with a celebratory glass of champagne and a light breakfast served afterward, hot air balloon rides are the perfect way to see Melbourne in all its glory.

So if you’re looking for something truly special, why not consider taking to the skies for an unforgettable experience that will be remembered long after your feet hit the ground?

Choose from a flight over the city, from where you’ll see landmarks like the MCG and the Royal Exhibition Building from a new perspective, or a flight over the Yarra Valley, where you can take in views of rolling hills and vineyards. Whichever option you decide to go with, dress warm!

• hot air balloon rides in Melbourne

34 – Old Treasury Building

A little-known Melbourne attraction on the eastern side of the CBD (right next to Parliament House on Spring Street), the Old Treasury Building is a formidable example of 19th-century architecture and, therefore, a must-see for anyone interested in architecture or Melbourne’s history.

Constructed back in the 1850s, the building was once home to the state’s treasury, but today houses a range of exhibits and displays that tell the story of the building’s – and the city’s – history. Ongoing collections like “Protest Melbourne” and “Yarra: Stories of Melbourne’s River” showcase the city development through art, photography and artifacts — while other rotating exhibitions, such as “Women Work for Victory in WWII” and “Gold Rush” provide fascinating insights into various aspects of historic Melbourne life.

The building is open from Sunday to Friday, 10 AM to 4 PM, and makes for a great way to spend an hour or two on a rainy day.

35 – Abbotsford Convent

Set within 16 acres of stunning heritage-listed gardens, this historical site was once a convent and orphanage – with its longstanding buildings still strong today. Today, it offers a range of activities such as arts and cultural events, markets, food, and live music performances, making it a popular weekend walkabout destination.

All up, the grounds are home to 11 historical buildings, including a church, a bakery, a laundry, and a dormitory, all dating back to the 1860s. The Convent is surrounded by the stunning Yarra Bend Park and is a short walk from the Collingwood Children’s Farm – the perfect back-to-back itinerary for anyone traveling with kids in tow.

36 – Collingwood Children’s Farm

With daily activities such as meet-and-greets, animal feedings, and tractor rides, the family-friendly Collingwood Children’s Farm offers an authentic farm experience into farm life without leaving the comfort of the big city.

An easy drive or tram ride from the city, the farm is home to a range of animals, including cows, pigs, guinea pigs, horses, goats, and sheep, as well as a farmers’ market every second Saturday of the month (from 8 AM to 1 PM).

Make sure to grab a drink from the Farm Cafe and stroll through the Community Gardens before the day’s end.

37 – Beer tasting

It’s not exactly a secret – Melbournians (and Aussies in general) love their beer. With a rich (and ever-growing) craft beer scene, the city continues to pop up with new breweries every other month.

For those looking for an educational (and tasty) experience, why not join one of the many beer-tasting tours around Melbourne? With knowledgeable guides leading the way, explore some lesser-known brewers alongside a few more popular ones – with tours hopping through the inner city, the Yarra Valley, or the Mornington Peninsula.

Whether you’re into lagers or ales, sours or IPAs, a beer-tasting tour (sometimes combined with a sports theme, other times food) is the perfect way to experience Melbourne’s craft beer scene.

Want to head to a brewery yourself? The Stomping Ground Brewery & Beer Hall in Collingwood, Moon Dog in Abbotsford (or Preston), Bodriggy Brewing Co in Abbotsford, and the Mountain Goat Brewery in Richmond are all worth checking out.

• beer tastings in Melbourne

38 – Rippon Lea Estate

A historic Victorian mansion located just 8km southeast of Melbourne’s CBD, the Rippon Lea Estate was built in 1868 and boasts 14 acres of pristinely-manicured gardens and parklands, including a lake, a waterfall, and a fernery. The estate is open to the public, and visitors can enjoy guided tours of the mansion, picnics in the gardens, and high tea in the ballroom – not to mention a slew of events (like handicraft markets, botanica festivals, and classic car displays) throughout the year that are great for the whole family.

Inside the mansion, you’ll find opulent furnishings, decorative touches and elements that are hundreds of years old — all best experienced on a docent-led tour.

39 – Melbourne Zoo

Lions, tigers, and bears – oh my! The Melbourne Zoo is home to close to 350 animal species from Australia and around the world, including elephants, giraffes, and gorillas, to name a few.

The zoo’s award-winning attractions include the Trail of the Elephants — where you can learn about their habits, culture, diet and more — and the Gorilla Rainforest, which offers a unique insight into their natural habitat.

There’s also an educational aspect to the zoo, with interactive learning activities such as animal talks and keeper presentations throughout the day. It’s all part of a larger effort to raise awareness about conservation and help protect endangered species around the world.

Want an extra special experience? Consider signing up for the Roar ‘n’ Snore overnight camp or joining the early morning Australian Wildlife Tour (both for an additional fee).

• Melbourne Zoo tickets

40 – THE LUME Melbourne

One of the more recent tourist attractions in Melbourne to open to the public, THE LUME is an immersive digital art gallery that blends art, light, and sound to create a multi-sensory adventure, transporting visitors to different eras and locations.

Located at South Wharf (right next to the DFO shopping center), this exhibition showcases some of the most famous artworks and brings them to life through cutting-edge technology — expect to see artworks by the likes of Van Gogh, Monet, and Klimt, depending on what’s on projection at the time. You can even join yoga and pilates classes, with the immersive projection backdrop.

As the largest digital art gallery in the Southern Hemisphere (four storeys high), it’s quickly making a name for itself as a must-consider rainy-day activity.

41 – Princes Pier

Found in Port Melbourne, Princes Pier is a historic, yet rather unknown landmark where visitors can enjoy stunning views of both Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne skyline. Rich in history, the pier was built in 1915 and was once one of the busiest piers in Victoria — and, at more than 580 meters in length, it also once held the title of being the biggest timber-piled pier in the country. Now rather derelict of cruise ships and tourists, these days, people come here to enjoy fishing, picnicking, and taking a stroll while enjoying the sunset.

As one of the closest piers (and beaches) to the city, it’s surprisingly calm, making for a relaxing getaway if you’re wandering around Port Melbourne.

42 – Legoland Discovery Centre Melbourne

Almost a city in its own right, Chadstone Shopping Centre is one of the largest shopping complexes in Australia with more than 500 stores and services. And, if you’re traveling with kids, then you can’t miss Legoland Discovery Centre — the first Legoland attraction in the Southern Hemisphere, and the perfect place to let youngsters’ imaginations run wild (while you run up the credit card and the department stores around the corner).

Little ones (and those young at heart) will love a visit to Legoland Discovery Centre Melbourne — an indoor theme park packed with activities like LEGO-building workshops, character meet-and-greets, rides, and interactive games. There are also two Lego-themed rides (Kingdom Quest and Merlin’s Apprentice), a 4D cinema, and a Mini Melbourne replica made entirely of Lego bricks.

This attraction is open every day and tickets can be purchased online or at the venue. For the best bang for your buck, consider a combo tour that also includes access to the SeaLife Aquarium (see #23).

• Legoland Melbourne tickets

43 – Hellenic Museum

For a healthy dose of culture and history, swing by the Hellenic Museum — an award-winning museum located in Melbourne’s CBD that focuses on Greek culture and its influence on Australia.

The museum houses over 16,000 artifacts (from ancient to modern times) including jewelry, coins, sculptures, pottery and religious artwork — all presented in a beautifully-restored building just off La Trobe Street.

As the only museum in Australia dedicated solely to Greek antiquities (which, mind you, span over 8,000 years), and with collections from both Australia and Greece, it serves as an intriguing way to spend an hour or two.

The museum is open from 10 AM to 4 PM daily.

44 – Sovereign Hill

Fancy a day trip out of Melbourne? Then head to the goldfields and experience life as it was in the 1850s.

Sovereign Hill is a living museum that offers visitors an immersive insight into Australia’s 19th-century gold rush — with all its bustling, shops, and attractions painstakingly recreated as if time had stood still for more than 150 years.

Just 90 minutes outside of Melbourne, this open-air museum is most beloved for its mine tours, gold-panning activities, and theatrical shows with costumed staff. Throw in special events throughout the year, like the magical Winter Wonderlights festival, and you’ll have plenty of reason to head out to the Ballarat region.

• Sovereign Hill tickets

45 – The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia

An arm of the National Gallery of Victoria dedicated exclusively to Aussie art, The Ian Potter Centre sells itself as one of the quintessential tourist attractions in Melbourne for art enthusiasts – especially considering its can’t-miss location inside Federation Square.

The gallery showcases the best of Australian art from the 19th century to the present day across three levels, which feature an ever-changing selection of works by some of the country’s most beloved artists — think Sidney Nolan, Joseph Brown and Arthur Boyd.

You’ll find everything from paintings, ceramics, sculptures and photographs, to multimedia installations, fashion pieces and interactive displays. Much like its sibling gallery on St Kilda Road, the Ian Potter Centre is open daily and entry is free.

46 – Shrine of Remembrance

Built to commemorate the sacrifice of Australian soldiers in World War I, this stunning memorial has evolved into an honor to all who have served in wars and conflicts. The eternal flame burns bright in its courtyard, and a balcony overlooking the city from its peak offers an unobstructed view of Melbourne’s skyline. And the Shrine itself — modeled on the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus in Turkey, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — is an architectural statement in its own right.

Inside, you’ll find a range of interactive exhibits and displays that explore Australia’s military history from World War I to the present day — including a poignant Hall of Memory, next to the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier.

The Shrine’s galleries and exhibitions are open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, and 45-minute guided tours are available for visitors to learn more about the Shrine’s history and significance (starting from the Visitor Centre hourly).

Note: April 25th is Anzac Day, a national day of remembrance for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. A moving dawn service takes place yearly – if you’re in town, it’s a powerful, must-see event.

• Shrine of Remembrance tours

47 – Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery

Connected to the Melbourne Museum, the Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery is a fun and interactive space that encourages children to explore science, technology and culture (giving the parents a chance to relax).

Designed specifically with kids aged 0–5 in mind, this exhibition features plenty of hands-on activities — think funhouse mirrors, climbing gyms, and a dinosaur dig, as well as plenty of educational programs throughout the year.

48 – Heide Museum of Modern Art

While a little off the beaten track, over in the leafy, hilly suburb of Bulleen, the Heide Museum of Modern Art is well worth a visit.

Set on 16 acres of gardens and grounds within Banksia Park — which includes sculptures, wetlands and ponds — this gallery celebrates its unique connection to Australia’s modern art movement by exhibiting works the likes of Sidney Nolan and Albert Tucker amongst a range of 20th and 21st-century Australian art.

The heritage-listed museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 5 PM, with regular exhibitions, events, and educational programs for adults and children.

49 – Ballarat Wildlife Park

When you’ve checked off most of the tourist attractions in Melbourne and want to experience a different side of the state, why not venture out to Ballarat? Home to Sovereign Hill, Kryal Castle, the Ballarat Tramway Museum, and, of course, the Ballarat Wildlife Park ?

Approximately 90 minutes drive from Melbourne, the park is home to a diverse range of animals (400+ species!) — from wombats and koalas, to dingoes and emus. You can also get up close with some of Australia’s most dangerous creatures in the Reptile House or take a leisurely walk through the aviary.

With far smaller crowds than the Melbourne Zoo, the park promises more opportunities to get up close with the animals — hold a snake, cuddle a koala, hand-feed an emu, or pet a kangaroo!

• Ballarat Wildlife Park tickets

50 – Her Majesty’s Theatre

A longstanding Melbourne icon, Her Majesty’s Theatre stands as one of the city’s oldest and most beloved theatres. At the time, it was the largest theatre in the Southern Hemisphere — and while that title’s since been stripped, its reputation for elegance and entertainment remains as large as ever.

Featuring a sprawling façade that dates back to 1886, this grand old theatre has hosted all kinds of plays, comedy shows, musicals, and operas over the decades. From Mary Poppins to Hamilton, Chicago, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, with new shows debuting roughly once a year, there’s always something to look forward to.

Check out their website to see what’s on during your visit.

51 – Wilsons Promontory

An enchanting green paradise, Wilsons Promontory (or ‘The Prom’) is one of Victoria’s most beloved national parks. Home to untouched beaches, hiking trails, lookouts, camping areas, towering cliffs, lush rainforest and plenty of wildlife, this coastal park is unquestionably an ideal place for a weekend getaway (or, if you’re up for it, a long day trip).

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something here for everyone. Hikers, make a beeline for the Mount Oberon Summit Track; beachgoers, head to Squeaky Beach and Norman Bay.

With over 50,000 hectares awaiting, the best way to explore the area is usually with a guided tour — these often include transport and meals too.

• Wilsons Promontory tours

52 – Skydiving

Craving a dose of adrenaline? Nothing quite beats the thrill of skydiving. And while it’s certainly not for the faint-hearted, there are plenty of experienced instructors around Melbourne to guide you through your first (or 15th) jump — so don’t be afraid to give it a go!

Jump sites near Melbourne include the Yarra Valley, over the rolling hills and vineyards; Torquay, where a bird’s-eye view of the Great Ocean Road awaits; and St Kilda Beach, over the city’s bustling inner suburbs and the sparkling Port Phillip Bay.

From 15,000 feet, you’ll experience a rush of speed and freedom unlike anything else. So, what are you waiting for?

• skydiving in Melbourne

53 – Australian Sports Museum

Housed within Australia’s greatest stadium (where else but the MCG, of course), the Australian Sports Museum celebrates the history of sport and its impact on Aussie culture — a sport-obsessed culture, might we add.

Start your visit with a walkthrough of the Australian Football Gallery before wandering through the Cricket Gallery, Horse Racing Gallery, or Olympic Gallery. The interactive Game On section is a crowd favorite, likewise the MCC museum, showing the fan side of sports.

Whether you explore solo or as part of a guided tour, you’ll learn about Australia’s sporting heroes from past and present, admire a range of memorabilia, and get to see the Sport Australia Hall of Fame while you’re at it.

54 – Penguin parade/Phillip Island Wildlife Park

A couple of hours southeast of Melbourne lies Phillip Island , a picturesque island home to an array of wildlife — most famously, the world’s smallest penguins (aptly named, the Little Penguin).

Every evening around sunset, these tiny birds will come ashore in what is known as the Penguin Parade. Visitors flock here to watch them waddle their way up the beach and back into their burrows.

Along with the parade, don’t miss out on a visit to the Phillip Island Wildlife Park — home to koalas, kangaroos and other native Aussie animals. More so than the larger Melbourne-based zoos, here, you can get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most beloved creatures, so be sure to bring your camera!

Hot tip: while you’re down in the area, consider visiting A Maze N Things, a quirky amusement park full of puzzles and illusions; the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, and the Koala Conservation Centre.

• Phillip Island tours

55 – Docklands district

A hotbed of Melbourne tourist attractions, the Docklands district (or just “Docklands”, as the locals call it) offers cinemas, ice skating rinks, elegant restaurants and bars, the interactive ArtVo museum, mini golf, and, of course, plenty of waterside track for a breezy stroll.

Docklands is also where you’ll find MARVEL Stadium, Melbourne’s second-largest venue for Aussie Rules Football, Rugby League, soccer, cricket and music concerts.

Keep in mind: The free City Circle Tram makes a stop at Docklands. Otherwise, it’s a short walk from Southern Cross Station.

56 – Bike tours

A wonderful way to check off a handful of tourist attractions in Melbourne in one go, locally-led bike tours are a fun and active way to explore the city.

Typically combining a few quintessential landmarks (like Federation Square, the Shrine of Remembrance, the MCG and Carlton Gardens) as well as hidden gems like Hosier Lane’s colorful street art, the backstreets of Collingwood and bohemian Fitzroy, these tours give you an exclusive look into the city’s nooks and crannies.

Take your pick from sightseeing tours in the city, or book one that focuses more on the bayside suburbs and beaches – either way, you can expect to get a unique perspective on Melbourne’s fascinating history, culture and lifestyle.

• bike tours in Melbourne

57 – Pentridge Prison

Once a notorious maximum-security prison in the 1800s and 1900s, Pentridge Prison is now a heritage site and diverse tourist attraction – with the ominous shell of the prison still standing tall. Here you can tour the former exercise yards and cells of criminals from days gone by, listen to stories about Australia’s most infamous inmates like the notorious Chopper Reed, or even join a lantern-lit ghost tour (if you dare…).

Located in Coburg, the prison is a little out of the way compared to some of the other Melbourne tourist attractions. However, with the on-site Pentridge Cinemas and BrewDog Pentridge brewery – as well as with nearby to-dos like the Merri Creek Trail and Brunswick’s hipster Sydney Road shops – it’s worth the journey if you want to make a day of it.

58 – South Melbourne Market

A local favorite, the South Melbourne Market is a vibrant space for shopping, eating and socializing – with some of the best boreks, croissants (Agathé Pâtisserie), dim sims, paella (Simply Spanish) and oysters that you’ll find anywhere in the city.

The market is brimming with fresh produce from local farmers, gourmet delights from artisanal food vendors and unique items like handcrafted jewelry and vintage clothing pieces – all of which you can explore while chatting to the friendly stall owners.

It’s best to go early in the morning if you’re hoping to beat the lunchtime crowd. The market’s only open on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

59 – Street art tours

It’s grungey. It’s colorful. And it’s what this bold-personality city is all about — as any past visitor will attest, Melbourne is a street art mecca, with laneways like Hosier Lane, Degraves Street and AC/DC Lane playing host to some of the country’s most iconic graffiti pieces. Get up close to these works with a guided walking tour (or join an electric bike tour if you’re feeling adventurous).

Tours usually involve plenty of stops along the way for photos, as well as a chance to learn about the various artistic styles on display and some of the stories behind them. Plus, you get to explore Melbourne’s coolest laneways – which is an experience in itself!

Don’t underestimate the street art in inner-city suburbs like Richmond, Fitzroy and Collingwood – each of these has its own unique vibe, and some of the most impressive murals to discover.

• street art tours in Melbourne

60 – Polly Woodside

Anchored at South Wharf, Polly Woodside is an old-school tall ship (read: pirate ship!) with a fascinating history – used mostly to transport cargo between Australia and England, with a helpful stint during WWII for the navy and a final selling price of one cent.

You can explore the deck of this 19th-century, 64-meter-long vessel; learn about life on board as you wander through its grand saloon and galley, or even go below decks to see crew quarters and workshops.

This maritime museum takes visitors back in time – all while providing impressive views of the Melbourne skyline. And afterwards, you can wander around South Wharf’s many cafes and restaurants – or take a stroll along the Yarra River towards nearby spots like Docklands or Southbank.

61 – Southbank & South Wharf

Foodies and party-goers alike will love Southbank – one of the city’s cultural playgrounds and an epicenter of nightlife. Dotted along the Yarra River waterfront you’ll find some of Melbourne’s best restaurants, bars and live music venues (many on rooftops with stunning views over the river).

In Southbank, you’ve got a long list of venues to choose from. From fine-dining establishments like DOC, Bistro Guillaume and Nobu, to casual bars like Ponyfish Island, Yarra Botanica and P.J. O’Brien’s, not to mention Crown Casino.

Meanwhile, South Wharf is a little further afield, often slightly less crowded and home to spots like the Boatbuilders Yard, Polly Woodside (see above), the Munich Brauhaus German beer hall, and DFO(for discounted outlet shopping).

Southbank is closer to Flinders Street, while South Wharf lends itself closer to Docklands. Start at one and wander your way down to the other!

62 – Chocolate tastings

In between checking off all the tourist attractions in Melbourne, why not treat yourself to something sweet? Melbourne is home to some of Australia’s best chocolatiers and chocolate-makers (Haigh’s, Koko Black, and more), so why not indulge in a decadent tasting experience (or two)?

Choose from chocolate-themed walking tours through the Melbourne laneways or day trips out to the Yarra Valley, where wine and cocoa go hand in hand — either way, you’ll learn more about the history of chocolate and how it’s made, as well as get to taste some seriously delicious samples.

• chocolate tastings in Melbourne

63 – Cooks’ Cottage

Flying under the radar, Cooks’ Cottage is a historic building hidden away in the beautiful (and equally hidden) Fitzroy Gardens. The thatched-roof cottage was originally built in Yorkshire, England, in 1755 and later moved to Melbourne in 1934 as a tribute to the famous explorer, Captain James Cook (who never actually lived here – but his father did build it).

Upon visiting, you can take a tour of the cottage and see how people lived during the 18th century, wandering through the kitchen, dining room and bedrooms – all filled with period furniture and artifacts.

The cottage is open every day from 10 AM to 4 PM, and tickets can be purchased at the entrance.

64 – Arthurs Seat Eagle

The closest cable car attraction to Melbourne is Arthurs Seat Eagle , located down on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, just over an hour’s drive out of the city. Operating year-round, this chairlift takes passengers up the side of Arthurs Seat – one of Victoria’s tallest mountains (with a 315-meter summit).

The entire journey takes about 15 minutes and dishes up panoramic views of the area as you pass over the treetop canopy. From the top, on a clear day, you can see as far as the Melbourne city skyline and the You Yangs mountain range to the west.

Ride the 15-minute gondola up and down or take a one-way trip and hike back down (1-2 hours each way).

65 – Kayaking

It might not be the first activity that comes to mind when you think of Melbourne, but kayaking is becoming increasingly popular in the city.

The Yarra River winds its way through central and inner-city suburbs, with plenty of great spots for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. The flat waters of Albert Park Lake provide a serene skyline backdrop, with the small rapids at Dwight Falls offer a challenge for experienced kayakers.

At places like St Kilda or Southbank, you can hire a single or double kayak and explore solo, or join a tour and explore with an experienced guide – the sunset kayak tours are particularly beautiful.

• kayaking in Melbourne

66 – Australian Music Vault

Housed within the Melbourne Arts Centre (famous for its Eiffel Tower-esque spire), the Australian Music Vault is an interactive institution dedicated to celebrating all things Australian musical history.

Explore a diverse range of topics and homegrown acts, from AC/DC and Kylie Minogue to The Seekers and more. Exhibits include touchscreens with artist interviews, strum-along instruments, costumes, and artwork – all free to see, seven days a week.

Keep your eyes peeled on the website for occasional special events, such as the “In Conversation” series with different artists, or workshop series on how to use music production software.

67 – Peninsula Hot Springs

After you’ve seen all of the tourist attractions in Melbourne and need a dose of rejuvenation (you’re on holiday after all), make your way down to the Mornington Peninsula for a day of indulgence.

The Peninsula Hot Springs is renowned as one of Australia’s best natural hot springs, offering R&R-seeking visitors over 70 options for bathing and wellness experiences in the mineral-rich waters. Choose from private baths, spa packages, moonlit swims, reflexology and a whole lot more. And with on-site optional accommodation, you can make a whole weekend out of it.

68 – Melbourne Laneways bars

Looking for fun things to do in Melbourne at night ?

Make no mistake; Melbourne knows how to party. But before you hit up the nightclubs and dance floors, don’t miss out on the city’s famous laneway bars.

Hidden down low-key alleyways and tucked away corners, these small-scale venues offer some of Melbourne’s best nightlife experiences. Cozy up with a craft beer at Campari House or Charlie’s Bar on Hardware Lane, enjoy classic cocktails at Lily Blacks , or let your hair down at the iconic Bar Americano .

Eau de Vie pays homage to jazz, with an expansive whisky selection; Section 8 is an open-air courtyard bar; and Beneath Driver Lane is housed in an old bank vault.

If you’re still thirsty, Her Bar , Murmur , and the Loop Top Rooftop Cocktail Bar are all worthy of a tipple.

69 – Chapel Street Precinct

For a spot of shopping, you can’t go past the Chapel Street Precinct. This vibrant neighborhood which stretches from South Yarra down to Windsor is a melting pot of op shops, boutique pop-up stores and eateries. But, after sundown, it grows a new facade — one of tequila shots, thumping dancefloors and all-out partying.

For nightlife, Chapel Street is synonymous with the word rowdy. From charming speakeasies like Jungle Boy and Katuk to nightclubs like Circus, Poof Doof, Electric, and Revolver, bedtime is optional in this part of Melbourne. And when that late-night hunger pang strikes, Chapelli’s 24-hour restaurant is there to save the day.

70 – Chadstone Shopping Centre

Big enough to be its own suburb, Chadstone Shopping Centre is the largest retail center in the Southern Hemisphere. If you’re looking to fill your closet with designer fashion and home goods, this is where it’s at.

The shopping complex features over 500 stores including international brands like Zara, Uniqlo, and Tiffany & Co., as well as its very own H&M, Sephora, and Apple Store.

Throw in a bowling alley, movie theatre, and kid-friendly LegoLand (see #42), and you’ve got an entire day’s worth of to-dos!

71 – Birrarung Marr

Connecting the MCG to Melbourne’s CBD, Birrarung Marr is a riverside parkland that offers sweeping views of both the city and the river.

Take your pick between BBQs, playgrounds, or relaxed grassy areas for some downtown R&R. A wonderful spot for a leisurely walk, the park is also home to various art installations, sculptures and free outdoor movie screenings throughout the year.

When annual festivities like Moomba or White Night roll around, Birrarung Marr really comes alive with vibrant music and festival amenities.

72 – Degraves Street

Easily the city’s most coveted laneway, Degraves Street — which connects Flinders Lane and Flinders Street — is jam-packed with cafes, restaurants and boutiques, flanked by your classic Melbourne laneway graffiti. The busy atmosphere is complemented by the old-world architecture and cobblestone pavements that make up this Melbourne classic.

For a sweet treat, you can’t go past Pidapipo for a scoop of ice cream. While you wouldn’t spend too long here (unless you’re having lunch), it’s an essential detour if walking about the city.

73 – Historic cinemas – the Astor or the Lido

For a dose of nostalgia, check out one of Melbourne’s historic cinemas. The Astor in St Kilda and the Lido in Hawthorn both feature art deco interiors, velvet-lined seating and movies that can’t be seen anywhere else.

The Astor has been playing films since 1936 and routinely offers double features of cult classics and new releases. Meanwhile, the Lido, built in 1912, still retains many of its original fixtures, with a classic candy bar. Both venues offer a unique experience that pays homage to the golden age of cinema.

74 – The Block Arcade

Originally built in the 1890s, a walk through the inner-city Block Arcade is like a step back in time. With intricate glass roofing, stone walls and Victorian architecture, it’s easy to feel like you’ve been transported to a different era.

Along the arcade, you’ll find shops selling a range of antiques, fashion and gourmet food items. Be sure to stop by Haigh’s for a chocolate treat, or the Hopetoun Tea Rooms for exquisite cakes and drinks.

75 – Sidney Myer Music Bowl

Melbourne’s largest open-air venue, the Sidney Myer Music Bowl hosts concerts and events throughout the year. Welcoming local Aussie artists as well as international stars, this venue has seen the likes of Arctic Monkeys, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Lorde, The National, Paramore, Guns N’ Roses, the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, and so many more grace its stage.

Big-name acts aside, the venue also hosts the annual Carols by Candlelight as well as summer music festivals capable of holding around 30,000 fans.

With its lush greenery and panoramic views of the city skyline, this is also an ideal spot for a picnic on non-event days.

Looking for the best Melbourne tours?

There are so many great things to do in Melbourne , and a trip around the city can be an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a guided tour of the classic spots, an exploration of the hidden gems or something more tailored to your interests – from foodie tours to sports excursions, or adventure activities, when it comes to tours in Melbourne there are plenty of amazing options with experienced guides.

You’ve got food tours, ghost tours, bike tours, Yarra river cruises, walking tours, wildlife tours, and even street art tours – all designed to give you an insight into the city’s vibrant and diverse culture. So what are you waiting for? Check out some of Melbourne’s best tour options today!

• Melbourne tours

If you wish to visit several attractions during your stay in Melbourne, consider booking an attraction pass.

Booking a Melbourne City Card or an Iventure Attractions Pass provides visitors to Melbourne with a cost-effective way to experience the city’s top tourist attractions, with the added bonus of skip-the-line access and exclusive discounts.

Where to go next?

Australia is a tourism paradise. After ticking Melbourne and Victoria off the bucket list, why not explore further and cross the state line? Just an hour’s flight north, Sydney is Australia’s largest city, its iconic harbor and beaches a must-see.

Heading south? Tasmania offers everything from stunning wilderness hikes to picturesque beachside villages (check out Hobart and Launceston), while the vibrant cultural hub of Adelaide in South Australia is well worth a visit. Further north lies the tropical rainforest and golden coastline of Cairns – gateway to the Great Barrier Reef – and the famously beautiful capital city of Brisbane .

If you’re not sure where to start, have a look at our deep dive into the best places to visit in Australia , and see what tickles your fancy.

Final thoughts

Well, that’s a wrap! As you’ve seen, when it comes to tourist attractions in Melbourne, we’re truly spoiled for choice. From the MCG to Luna Park; from the Botanical Gardens to the Eureka Tower; from laneway bars to hot springs – there’s something for everyone in Australia’s culture capital.

Are there any other quintessential Melbourne experiences that you’d recommend? Let us know in the comments below! As always, happy travels!

20 Top Places to Visit in Melbourne for a Memorable Australia Vacation

Prepare to have the best time of your life in Melbourne, where fun and thrills never stop. From swanky city life on the coast to national desert parks. Melbourne will make you fall in love with its diversity, and all you have to do is step out of your hotel room. Let’s explore the places to visit in Melbourne,

The Royal Botanic Gardens

• Dandenong Ranges
• The Eureka Tower
• Luna Park Melbourne
• The Healesville Sanctuary

Peninsula Hot Springs

Phillip island, ifly melbourne, national gallery of victoria.

• Captain Cook’s Cottage

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Puffing billy railway.

• Collins Street
• Hampton Beach

Melbourne City Centre

Yarra river cruise, city circle tram, library of victoria, altona beach, rod laver arena.

Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne is one of Australia’s finest tourist attractions in the heart of Melbourne City. This garden houses more than 8,500 plant species. The Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne are open all year, and admission is free.

The Dandenong Ranges

Dandenong Ranges are the best tourist places to spend holidays with your family. Where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery, which will be a treat for your eyes. The Dandenong Ranges, Melbourne, is a relaxing place to visit.

Eureka Tower

Eureka Tower in Melbourne is a skyscraper that stands at 297 m. It is one of Melbourne city’s top tourist attractions. The Eureka Tower acts as Melbourne’s highest observation deck and offers surreal views of the entire city illuminated by twinkling lights.

Melbourne’s Luna Park

The Luna Park Melbourne is one of Australia’s most well-known amusement parks. The iconic entrance facade of Luna Park Melbourne, featuring a giant grinning face, is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The iconic Scenic Railway roller coaster, the Ghost Train, the Dodgems, and the Carousel are among the park’s thrilling rides and attractions.

Healesville Sanctuary

The Healesville Sanctuary is a nature reserve in Healesville, Australia. Over 200 species of native animals call the sanctuary home, including kangaroos, koalas, wombats, echidnas, platypus, dingoes, and many more. The sanctuary is open to the public daily from 9am to 5pm, and can be accessed by car or public transport.

This natural hot spring in the Mornington Peninsula has a variety of thermal pools and spa facilities, making it a popular destination. The natural minerals found in the hot springs have various benefits, including aiding muscle relaxation and stress reduction.

The island is one of the few popular destinations worldwide for whale and dolphin watching. The island holds several spectacular natural attractions, including the Phillip Island Nature Park, home to the world’s largest colony of Little Penguins, and the Nobbies Centre, located at the island’s westernmost tip.

Also read: Australia in March

For first-time flyers, iFly offers introductory packages that include everything you need to get started. You will also be able to practice in the simulator before flying in the wind tunnel. So, if you want to experience an adrenaline rush, come to iFly Melbourne.

Being Australia’s oldest public art museum, located in Melbourne, housing a permanent collection of over 70,000 works of art from around the world. Also, one of the world’s largest and most renowned galleries,

The Captain Cook’s Cottage

The Captain Cook’s Cottage, the museum houses a variety of period artifacts, including furniture, maps, and artifacts from Cook’s voyages.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground is an iconic Australian sports venue and is the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere. Located in the city of Melbourne, it is the 10th largest stadium in the world and is most famous for hosting the annual cricket match known as the Boxing Day Test.

The Puffing Billy Railway is one of the oldest continuously operating steam railways in the world and is a popular tourist attraction. This railway is operating since 1900 as part of the Melbourne and Ferntree Gully Railway. Today, Puffing Billy Railway is still operated by steam locomotives and offers a range of scenic trips.

The Collins Street

One of the major attractions for shopping, dining, and entertainment spot in Melbourne, Australia. It is known for its elegant Victorian-era architecture and luxury shopping. The street is also lined with many historical landmarks, including the Collins Street Baptist Church, the Old Treasury Building, and the Princess Theatre.

The Hampton Beach

This beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, as well as a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the ocean. The beach is situated in a stunning location, with stunning views of the Melbourne skyline.

Melbourne City Centre Located in the heart of Australia’s second-largest city, Melbourne City Centre is the perfect destination for tourists to explore and experience all the culture, food, and attractions that the city has to offer. From the top of this building, you can get a stunning panoramic view of the city.

The Yarra River Cruise takes you through the Yarra River, giving you a chance to discover some of the city’s most iconic sights, including the Royal Botanic Gardens, the historic Flinders Street Station, and the iconic Eureka Tower.

The City Circle Tram is the perfect way to explore the city, as it is a great way to get around without having to pay for public transport. They Provide a free service that runs along a circular route around the city, providing an easy and convenient way to get around. The tram stops at some of the city’s most popular attractions, such as Queen Victoria Market, the State Library of Victoria, Federation Square, Flinders Street Station, and the Docklands.

The State Library Of Victoria is one of the most iconic landmarks in Melbourne, Australia. It is a beautiful building with an ornate facade, and it houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, and other materials.

One of the best beaches in Melbourne! Located just 18km southwest of the city center, it’s the perfect spot for a day at the beach. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in the sun or an adventure-filled day of swimming, surfing, and fishing.

Rod Laver Arena! Located in Melbourne, Australia, it is one of the most iconic sports and entertainment venues in the world. It is home to the Australian Open tennis tournament, as well as many other sporting events, concerts, and shows. Hope this places to visit in Melbourne might give you an idea while planning a trip to Melbourne.

Also read: Budget-friendly Trip to Australia

From tall skyscrapers to mesmerizing Gardens, Melbourne has everything to offer you. It’s one of the top destinations which covers every category of people. I’m gonna assure you that Melbourne will give you an unforgettable experience for a lifetime. Don’t wait any longer check out Melbourne tour packages right away, thanks to Pickyourtrail , we have some of the greatest offers. Even better, you can customize your trip to Melbourne to your specific needs and make it just how you want to spend your time there. The only thing you have to do is to take a peek at the Australia tour packages ASAP! Get in touch with our travel experts right away to start planning your vacation. Catch up soon!

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The Best Places To Visit Outside Australian Cities

Best Places To Visit In Victoria’s East

Best places to visit in victoria’s east.

Venture east of and outside Melbourne you will discover some of the best places to visit in Victoria . Exploring anywhere in Victoria you will find incredible exhibits of nature and the eastern side of Victoria offers fabulous landscapes, natural wonders including beaches, lakes, caves, National Parks, rivers and so much more.

In this article we will give you some great Australian holiday ideas that may just take you off the main tourist trail to discover some remarkable holiday destinations in Victoria.

Mornington Peninsula

You may have heard of the Bellarine Peninsula at its wonderful Great Ocean Road to the west of Melbourne, but to the east is the equally beautiful Mornington Peninsula. The Peninsula is an easy 90-minute drive from central Melbourne and ends at the Point Nepean National Park.

The bay beaches of the eastern side of the peninsula are lined with small towns such as Mornington, Dromana, Rosebud, and Blairgowrie. The two best known and beautiful towns on the Mornington Peninsula are Sorrento and Portsea. The wild and beautiful western side of the Peninsula is where the towns such as Rye are located. Portsea manages to span both sides of the peninsula.

Between the two beach strips however are wineries, hot springs, hiking and sculpture trails. Mount Marta, Mount Elizabeth, Red Hill and Arthur’s Seat can be found here just by following your nose! On weekends the wineries fire up their pizza ovens and open their gourmet restaurants with local produce, many grown on the wineries alongside the grapes. Montalto and Point Leo Estates even have dedicated sculpture parks among the vines.

It is Portsea and Sorrento that tourists and Melburnians flock to. Millionaire’s Walk is a simple but truly stunning coastal walk along the gentle cliff edge behind the mansions of Portsea. It is part of a wider walk that has been created called the Artists’ Trail and along the walk you will see information plaques showing the paintings of some of Australia’s greatest artists painted of the landscape from that spot. Follow the Walk down to Sorrento and stop for coffee over the water at The Baths restaurant.

Written by Monique at Trip Anthropologist

Phillip Island

For a great getaway close to Melbourne, Phillip Island is a great choice. Located an easy two hour drive from the city centre, it’s perfect for either a quick break or a long stay with many things to do on this small island.

The list of things to do in Phillip Island is long. It is best known for its penguin parade held in the evenings when hundreds or even thousands of wild penguins waddle up the beach to sleep for the night. It is famous for a reason and this is a must visit. During the day, there are other natural attractions to check out like sea lions and seals along the rocky coastline at the Nobbies Centre. While at the Nobbies Centre, The Antarctic Journey is worth a stop. The interactive displays and exhibits help visitors learn more about this region of the world as well as giving them a taste of what it feels like to be in Antarctica with huge screen displays and a room with temperatures like those in Antarctica.

For a farm experience, Churchill Island Heritage Farm is recommended. There are experiences here like whip cracking and milking cows. Afterwards, visitors can head to the Koala Conservation Centre to spot koalas in their natural environment. Of course, being an island, there are also many beaches to enjoy.

There are many accommodation options in Phillip Island. A recommended option is the Ramada Resort which has many facilities and room types including spacious units. For a great meal and a cool beverage, try the Rusty Water Brewery in the centre of the island. For dessert, try a chocolate from the Panny’s Phillip Island Chocolate Factory. Also recommended is fresh seafood that visitors can catch themselves than have cooked at the Rhyll Trout and Bush Tucker Farm.

With all of these attractions, accommodation options and natural scenery and beaches, Phillip Island is the perfect choice for an eastern Victoria getaway.

Written by Sharon from Baby Journey

Lakes Entrance

Lakes Entrance is a sleepy seaside town in the cooler months but once the sun starts to beat down and the Aussie summer sets in it comes to life. Car loads of people, families, day-trippers and holiday makers flock to the area to bask in the sunshine, relax and hit the beach.

Nothing was different at the start of the 2019/2020 summer holidays but as many found out it changes quickly when a bush fire is threatening the tourist town. Lakes Entrance was evacuated in their busiest time.

For most visiting Lakes Entrance there is everything you need. Being one of the bigger towns on the Gippsland Lakes there is so much to do. You can play mini-golf with the family, sample a local craft beer while the kids play, visit the summer carnival, buy some fresh seafood off the boats, take the Entrance walk to look for seals on the rocks, laze on the 90-mile beach and if you wander far enough you may end up being the only person on the beach.

If you are looking for some good food you can visit the many cafes for a coffee and cake. Some of the bigger restaurants have local seafood on the menu as well as good pub grub that fills you up. 

There are so many accommodation options there too. From basic camping sites to fully equipped hotels, there is something for every budget in Lakes Entrance. You will find most of the caravan parks filled with families with kids eager to play and meet new friends on the summer holidays.

Written by Bec from Travels In Gippsland

Inverloch, located 143 kilometres south-east of Melbourne on the gorgeous Gippsland coastline, is the perfect destination for a post-isolation Victorian getaway.

Sitting on the picturesque and protected waters of Andersons Inlet, the beach boasts a shallow and crystal-clear bay that is perfect for small children and can be enjoyed year-round for swimming, walking, fishing and water sports.

Low tide is a great time to explore the western headland, nearby surf beaches and The Caves where the Inverloch Dinosaur Dreaming dig site is located.

The town’s main foreshore reserve, The Glade, is a lovely grassy area that extends from the local shops and Bunurong Environment Centre down to the beach with plenty of picnic areas and BBQs plus a great playground to keep the kids occupied.

The Inlet Hotel and Bayside Lady are located in the town centre and provide excellent varied menus with all-day dining and early seating times to suit families.

When considering Inverloch accommodation suitable for children, our recommendation is  either the RACV Resort or the BIG4 Inverloch Holiday Park. It is located within walking distance to the gorgeous Anderson Inlet and offers a wide range of accommodation options and recreational facilities. If you are looking for camping in Inverloch, the caravan and camping sites are well maintained and lush with great ensuite facilities and there are various options for self-contained villas spread across the park to suit single travellers, couples and families.  Plus, two super luxurious and cosy eco glamping tents with comfortable beds, kitchen facilities, plenty of room for the kids to play and great heating for a winter stay.

The BIG4 Inverloch Holiday Park features an indoor heated pool and splash park, well-equipped children’s playground, jumping pillow, arcade games and array of activities to suit both children and adults…you can be assured that the kids will never want to leave!

Written by Alison from muMEcations

Metung is located between Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance in East Gippsland, on a small peninsula on the Gippsland Lakes between Lake King and Bancroft Bay; there are so many wonderful things to do in Metung . Water lovers flock to Metung to explore the quaint waterside village, learn to sail or hire a boat and discover all that the Gippsland Lakes have to offer. With a boat take a trip to the Barrier Landing where you’ll have access to beautiful Ninety Mile Beach.

Metung is hard not to fall in love with at first sight. You’ll love taking morning walks along the Metung boardwalk, stopping in at one of the many cafes for a coffee or grabbing some freshly baked bread from the Metung Bakery. A highlight in the town is the Metung Farmer’s Market, which you will find on the Green on the second Saturday every month.

Golfer’s can enjoy a round of golf, families will love the protected waterways for great times at the beach and the playground in the village. At the front of the Metung Yacht Club, you’ll find Legend Rock which is also found along the Bataluk Cultural Trail; Legend Rock is a significant site for the Kurnai and Gunai people. You can see this detailed guide for more 

Metung is a lovely holiday destination in Victoria and there are endless accommodation options; here you’ll find a full guide on accommodation in Metung . McMillans of Metung Coastal Resort is a popular well resourced and located choice for couples and families.

Written by Geoff, from Go Camping Plus

Mallacoota is one of Gippsland’s most beautiful escapes, nestled in among the Croajingolong National Park and sitting on the Mallacoota Inlet. This popular place to go in Victoria is not to be missed when exploring Victoria’s eastern regions. 

Mallacoota is a gorgeous coastal town and is a popular holiday destination in Victoria all year round, with it’s warmer than others winter climate and pleasant sea breeze throughout Summer. There is an endless list of things to do in Mallacoota, but if you’re there in Summer you should start by exploring the popular and patrolled Mallacoota beach, Betka Beach. If you like to snorkel, grab your beach gear and head to rugged Quarry Beach, or as it’s name says Secret Beach for a more peaceful experience. Don’t miss Top Lake, Bottom Lake and Gipsy Point, a beautiful inlet jutting into Top lake. In fact, all aspects of the Mallacoota waterside are remarkable and worthy of exploration.

If you’re looking to explore nature, Mallacoota is the place to go. You can enjoy some great self drive 4WD trips, discover the National Parks and Gabo Island. Be sure to spend some time exploring the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Croajingolong National Park – the pure white sands, granite peaks, extensive wildlife and plant species, will make it hard to leave this beautiful Victorian holiday destination.

Take your time exploring this magnificent part of Victoria. There is an extensive range of Mallacoota accommodation options, however we would recommend Blue Waters Holiday Cottages for couples or Mallacoota Beach Houses for families.

Written by Love To Travel, Stay-Eat-Do

Buchan is a town found in a beautiful valley in East Gippsland. Known for the magnificent limestone Buchan Caves, Buchan is a popular holiday destination in Victoria for families and outdoor nature lovers. 

Buchan was one of Victoria’s earliest European settlements and was originally named Bukan-Mungie , meaning ‘the place of rocks with holes in them’. Aboriginal Heritage is rich in Buchan with 18,000 year old original artefacts still visible. Taking a tour at Buchan Caves is a great opportunity to hear stories of Aboriginal dreamtime while exploring this unique Victorian landmark.

The Snowy River National Park is also a great highlight of the area. If you like to 4WD, you will love to explore the high country. Meander through the tall forests throughout the Snowy River National Park – don’t miss Little River and the spectacular Little River Falls. If you are up for some exhilarating adventure you can also go white-water rafting down the Snowy River. Cycling through the region is also very popular.

Camping in Buchan is popular, however, if you’re looking for alternative Buchan accommodation we would recommend the two bedroom house, Cottage on Main .

Wilsons Promontory

The southernmost tip of mainland Australia is famous for its rugged, untouched and well protected wilderness. You can walk and camp with the only company being the local kangaroos, wombats and emus and the sound of waves lapping on the pristine secluded beaches. Wilsons Prom has so much to offer all travellers, see our guide on the great things to do in Wilsons Prom and ultimate guide to Wilsons Prom accommodation .

Tidal River is the starting point for most people’s Prom adventures . For day walkers it gives access to Norman Beach where you can swim and snorkel in Victoria’s largest Marine National Park. Popular walks in the area include: Tidal Overlook; Tidal River Board Walks; Lilly Pilly Gully; Norman Point; Mt Bishop; Whisky Bay; Pillar Point; Little Oberon Bay; and the famous Squeaky Beach. Walks in the north include: Vereker Outlook; Five Mile Beach; Big Drift; Cotters Beach; Millers Landing; and Darby River to Tongue Point. Southern walks include: Mt Oberon Summit; Wilsons Promontory Lightstation; Sealers Cove; Waterloo Bay; and the 3 Day Southern Prom Circuit.

Tidal River offers family friendly accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, starting with camping, glamping, huts, cabins, units and lodges. For the completely secluded wilderness experience there are plenty of remote campsites scattered throughout the Prom for those wanting to hike overnight. There is also the Wilsons Promontory Lightstation for a unique stay in an 1859 lighthouse keeper’s cottage. The Tarra Bulga Guesthouses accommodate groups and are not far away from Wilsons Promontory.

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• 10 Marvelous Melbourne Attractions to Mesmerize Your Senses

23 Mar 2023

Second largest in Australia and a frequent contender of “world’s best livable city”; multicultural Melbourne is a city of all seasons. Cultures, colors, and coffee – marvelous Melbourne has it all for its lovers. For those visiting this urban metropolis with a rural charm, we have attempted to breakdown the best of Melbourne tourist attractions. Have a look.

1. Eureka Tower

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This tower is the highest viewing platform in the entire southern hemisphere. Need more reasons to come here? Alright! This tower is 91 stories above ground and the viewable distance from the gold plated top covers 360 degree panorama of the city and its mountain ranges. For those who love going beyond the lines, there is The Edge – a glass cube which slides 3 meters away from the tower. Where: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank Opening hours: Riverside Quay, Southbank Melbourne 3006 Entry charges: Start from 11$; for further details, check website

2. Federation Square

Alright fellas, free Wi-Fi on your way! Popularly called as Fed Square, this historical monument is the largest free internet zone in Australia. Its ultra-modern design hosts more than 2000 events annually. Located amidst the mesmerizing Victorian architectural buildings, this Melbourne tourist attraction has entertainments zones in its central outdoor performance space and intimate indoor amphitheaters. Where: Corner Swanston and Flinders Streets, Melbourne Opening hours: Who wants a free wi fi zone with a closed tag? Fed Square is open 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. Entry charges: Check their website

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

Half a million plants in spread over 40 hectares of green land – the Royal Botanic gardens is visited by around 1.5 million people annually. One of the most popular Melbourne tourist attractions, this garden runs horticulture courses for next gen gardeners. It also organizes Aboriginal heritage walks through the rich history of indigenous Australians. Where: Birdwood Ave, South Yarra Opening hours: From 7:30 am till the end of the day. Entry charges: Free

4. Melbourne Cricket Ground

Birthplace of test cricket, main stadium of 1956 Olympics, home of Australian football, a heritage dating back to 1853 and a capacity of 100,000 – MCG is definitely a must visit among the best Melbourne tourist attractions. The curator of the stadium organizes a daily 75-minute tour to take visitors for a trip down a memory lane. Summers host cricket and winters have football matches for sporty day outs. One can also rent tennis courts in the stadium. Where: Brunton Ave, East Melbourne Opening hours: Everyday Entry charges: Start from 70$, for details, visit www.mcg.org.au

Suggested Read: 10 Free Things To Do In Melbourne

5. Penguin Parade

While the sun melts at the beaches in Melbourne, hundreds of little penguins flock across the sandy beaches. An evening with these cute creatures while they stroll towards their sand burrows is a lifetime experience to cherish. Various agencies offer these parade packages at different locations across the city. Where: Koala Conservation Centre, 1810 Phillip Island Road, Phillip Island, Victoria 3923 Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm daily Entry charges: Start from 85$; for details, check the website

6. Dandenong Ranges

Another must see place in Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges have dense rainforests, long walking treks, small towns with box-like shops amidst the views of vast Mountain Ash forests, waterfalls and secret historical gems. The historic “Puffing Billy” train ride – one of the most famous narrow-gauge railways in the world sails through the leisurely winds and scenic worth spending a life. A visit to the beautiful Sherbrooke Forest and the serene village of Sassafras and the Dandenong Ranges National Park is a must if one is here. Where: 1 hour outside Melbourne, Victoria Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm for train ride

7. Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building

Bunjilaka, aboriginal center, Blue Box cube and a gallery exhibiting the societies and cultures of yesteryear – all this can be experienced while you take a free tram ride through the city. AAny list of Melbourne tourist attractions is incomplete without mentioning the gorgeous gardens and parkland on the way this scenic luxury that hold everyone’s eyes forever. This building also hosted the first Commonwealth parliament in 1901. Where: 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm Entry charges: Start from 14$, check website for further details

8. Captain Cook’s Cottage

The name Captain Cook itself is replete with the history of seafaring, adventures and explorations. His cottage in Yorkshire, England was picked and brought to the Fitzroy Gardens. The solitude of this cottage takes you into the times of the Australian explorations of Cook. The mission style floral display in the conservatory is a delight to the senses. Where: Wellington Parade, East Melbourne Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm Entry charges: Start from 6$; details available at the website

Suggested Read: 9 Fun Things To Do In Melbourne For A Hell Of A Trip

9. Melbourne Zoo

So here is a zoo that hosts an Orangutan sanctuary which houses animals in its treetops. It also organizes some innovative events like ‘roar and snore’ wild encounters, and twilight music concerts. A history as old as 150 years, 320 species of animals in the state of art facilities, frog shows, and famous trail of the Elephant makes it one of the most entertaining zoos in the world. Where: Elliott Ave, Parkville Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm every day, animal areas close at 4:40 pm Entry charges: Start from 31$, browse the website for detailed info

10. National Gallery of Victoria

This gallery of art works, both national and international, needs you to lie on the floor and look at the colorful stains of the ceiling glass. It is located in the two city locations with a total collection of some 68000 works of art. Among the major attractions at the National Gallery is the triptych format of the Pioneer by Frederick Mccubbin. Where: St. Kilda Road, Melbourne and Federation Square Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm Entry charges: Free usually; special exhibitions may charge; for an updated schedule visit the website

11. Queen Victoria Market

One of the most alive and happening streets in Australia is Queen Victoria Street. Heavily thronged by locals and tourists, this heritage market from 1878 sells fresh products even today. Clothing, art, toys, rarest of rare souvenirs – this market place has it all for everyone. It also hosts a grand food hall. One of its kinds, this Melbourne tourist attraction organizes several weekend events such as night marts, concerts and street tours. Where: Queen and Victoria Streets, Melbourne Opening hours: 6 am to 3 pm Entry charges: Free, parking costs around 8$ per hour

12. South Bank and Arts Centre

At a walking distance from Finder streets on the bank of river Yarra, this art centre is another famous tourist attraction in Melbourne. It is full of indoor and outdoor cafes and restaurants hosting live concerts and stand up comedies. The art and craft mart on Sunday is a special weekend attraction. This center houses several theaters including the famous Fairfax Theatre and Hammer hall which hosts the celebrated Melbourne Symphony orchestra. Where: St. Kilda Road, Melbourne Opening hours: As per the shows, events and performances; check schedule on website Entry charges: As per the performances tickets, car parking starts at 6$ per hour.

Further Read: 17 Dreamy Australia Honeymoon Destinations In 2022 That Define A Romantic Vacation

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• [ April 27, 2024 ] PETER CRANIS: Economic Impact of Tourism on Brevard in 2023 Was $4.6 Billion, Visitor Spending $2.95 Billion Attractions
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Home » Home » PETER CRANIS: Economic Impact of Tourism on Brevard in 2023 Was $4.6 Billion, Visitor Spending $2.95 Billion

PETER CRANIS: Economic Impact of Tourism on Brevard in 2023 Was $4.6 Billion, Visitor Spending $2.95 Billion

By Peter Cranis, Space Coast Office of Tourism Executive Director  //  April 27, 2024

industry supports 46,000 direct and indirect jobs with wages of nearly $1.5 billion

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – We recently completed a Visitor and Economic Impact Study with 2,500 visitors being interviewed. This is the most comprehensive study we have done since COVID and it revealed some very interesting data.

First of all, the overall economic impact of tourism on the County was calculated at $4.6 billion with visitor spending at $2.95 billion. Overnight visitors accounted for nearly 3 million room nights in 2023 including hotel/motel and vacation rental.

The report also shows the industry supports nearly 46,000 direct and indirect jobs with wages of nearly $1.5 billion.

In terms of trip planning 63% of visitors saw something from the Space Coast Office of Tourism prior to coming – whether it was our website, social media, or other advertising/promotions we have done.

In terms of origin of visitors, 37% come from within Florida, 17% from the Southeast, 12% from the Northeast, 17% from the Midwest, 12% from the West, and 5% are from international markets, mostly Canada, UK and Germany. The split between flying here or driving is 54%/46%.

Visitors stay here 4.5 nights on average and are in travel parties of 3.1 people, 47% having children in their party. On average, each travel party spends $2,762 which is $197 per person per day, or $891 per trip.

In terms of accommodations, 36% stay in hotel motel, 28% with friends and family, and 26% in vacation rental. They stay in Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral (33%), Melbourne (14%), Titusville (12%), Melbourne Beach/South Beaches (10%), and Palm Bay (9%).

While here they engage in beach activities (68%), go shopping (61%) and sightseeing (48%), watch a rocket launch (41%), do some kind of outdoor activity (40%), go to Kennedy Space Center (29%), take an overnight cruise (25%), or participate in watersports (22%). Other things they do include going to a museum, the zoo, fishing, golf, play in a sporting event, or a business activity.

They enjoy being here and 93% said they would return here, 79% said within the next 12 months. Of those that took an overnight cruise, 91% stayed here overnight either before or after the cruise and 27% said they stayed both before and after. There are a lot more data points we collected, but these are the highlights. We will share more in future stories.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

– Peter Cranis, Space Coast Office of Tourism Executive Director

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Seven Aussie tourist attractions make world’s ‘most boring’ list

Australia appears to be home to seven of the world’s ‘most boring’ attractions and not everyone is happy about it.

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Australia appears to be home to seven of the world’s “most boring” attractions, according to a contentious new global study.

The research — conducted by Solitaired in March — has listed the Top 100 Most Boring Attractions Worldwide and it’s already got some Aussies fired up after iconic hotspots across Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Tasmania made the cut.

“We analysed 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide, spanning 384 cities across 71 countries, focusing on 11 keywords indicative of tiresome, lifeless, and downright boring impressions,” Solitaired wrote on its site.

As such, researchers ranked the attractions by the frequency with which tourists mentioned boredom-related keywords, comparing the mentions to the total reviews for each spot.

The study did not focus on the star-rating of Google reviews, but rather identified the number of times words such as “tiresome”, “lifeless,” and “boring”, were written by reviewers.

American attractions took up the top seven spots, while Shrek’s Adventure London snagged eighth place.

Four Legoland Discovery Centres made the top 25, with Melbourne’s coming in at 24th alongside a ‘boredom score’ of 2.30.

The other Melbourne attraction to make the list was Luna Park at 80. It had a ‘boredom score’ of 1.90, i.e the number of times the boredom-related keywords were mentioned in its 7996 reviews.

Some West Aussies were shocked to learn the WA Museum Boola Bardip ranked 16th on the global list, with the unique Bell Tower scraping in at 92.

“Naw I thought the museum was good. Maybe it needs a better name that makes it sound more exciting,” one person wrote on Facebook.

“Fantastic museum, got something for everyone in here. Lots about the history of Perth/ Western Australia as well as some really interesting geology exhibits,” another wrote in their Google review.

“I love the museum!!” a third proclaimed, while others also defended Bell Tower.

“Bell tower times is an absolute belter though,” one said.

However, not everyone was of the same view with many agreeing the only four-year-old $400 million WA museum is “underwhelming”.

“Yup I’d agree. Spent so much money on it and now there’s nothing left in it to see. Such a shame,” one local wrote.

“It was a great museum when my kids were little. There was a great kids area with lots of activities and some very interesting collections. Now you need a torch to go round,” wrote another, while others blamed the location.

“It’s not only the museum but where it is,” one person added.

It’s also worth noting that out of the 3515 Google reviews, it has a 4.5 star-rating.

But the Northbridge-based attraction wasn’t the only “boring” Aussie museum on the list with Melbourne’s Immigration Museum raking at 52 and the Museum of Sydney at 32.

They had a 4.4 star-rating based on 2,659 Google reviews and 41 star-rating based on 2345 reviews, respectively.

Meanwhile, WA Museum CEO Alec Coles argued the findings were at odds with other “credible” sources, insisting feedback on the Perth-based museum has been largely complimentary.

“The results of this supposed ‘survey’ contradict all credible data sources, all of which suggest that visitors are overwhelmingly positive about Boola Bardip,” Mr Coles told Perth Now .

He considered the museum’s dynamic calendar of events as key to attracting both new and repeat visitors.

“Each year WA Museum Boola Bardip develops and presents a range of captivating local and international exhibitions, interactive displays, diverse programs, and events.

“Last year’s Discovering Ancient Egypt exhibition attracted over 135,000 visitors and people have come over the last two weeks in their droves to visit the To the Moon exhibition.”

Another well-known attraction that also made the list was MONA in Berriedale, Tasmania.

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It ranked 76th out of 100 with a ‘boredom score’ of 1.90 based on 11,067 reviews.

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Over 100 pilot whales beached on western Australian coast have been rescued, officials say

Wildlife authorities and volunteers are trying to save dozens of whales that are stranded on a beach in Western Australia, local media reported on Thursday. The marine animals are stranded at Toby’s Inlet near the town of Dunsborough.

This image supplied by Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, shows a pod of pilot whales stranded on a beach at Toby’s Inlet in Western Australia, Thursday, April 25, 2024. Dozens of pilot whales have beached on the western Australian coast and wildlife authorities were attempting to rescue them, a state government said on Thursday.(Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions via AP)

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MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — More than 100 long-finned pilot whales that beached on the western Australian coast Thursday have returned to sea, while 29 died on the shore, officials said.

Ships and a spotter plane were monitoring the rescued whales in case they returned to shore, the Parks and Wildlife Service of Western Australia state regional wildlife officer Pia Courtis said.

“So far so good, they haven’t made it back to shore, but we will keep monitoring them,” Courtis told reporters.

Local whale researcher Ian Wiese joined hundreds of volunteers who helped rescue the whales at Toby’s Inlet near the tourist town of Dunsborough.

“When I first arrived, there was, I think, 160 in the water — almost out of the water — and there were a couple of hundred people who were with the whales, they were trying to comfort them and make sure that their heads were out of the water so they could breathe. And then after an hour or so, all of a sudden the ones that were in the water that were still alive left and went out to sea,” Wiese said.

“They may well decide to come back to shore somewhere on another beach nearby or something — that often happens, but we’re hopeful that they won’t,” Wiese added.

A team of wildlife officers, marine scientists and veterinarians had earlier reached the scene and reported 26 dead among up to 160 stranded.

Wiese said he earlier thought 31 whales had died, but the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions later said the final death toll was 29.

In July, almost 100 long-finned pilot whales died or were euthanized after a two-day rescue attempt in a mass stranding on Cheynes Beach near the former whaling station of Albany, 355 kilometers (220 miles) southeast of Dunsborough.

Dunsborough is 285 kilometers (177 miles) by road south of Perth, Western Australia state’s capital and largest city.

Based on previous strandings, including the 2023 Cheynes Beach event, euthanizing the beached whales is usually the most humane outcome, the department said in a statement.

“We always hope for the best outcome,” the statement said.

Wiese said Thursday was the third mass stranding he had responded to and the result was by far the best.

“It’s been a very good story today because normally with these sorts of strandings, you wind up with a 100 whales beaching and five or six being saved,” Wiese said.

Courtis said the whales were believed to have become stranded early Thursday.

The dead whales were dragged from the water so that their carcasses didn’t attract sharks.

Marine scientist Holly Raudino said tissue samples had been taken from the dead whales to exclude potential causes of the stranding, in particular infectious disease.

Dunsborough was the scene of a mass stranding of 320 long-finned pilot whales in 1996. Only 20 died on that occasion, with rescuers returning the rest to sea.

Scientists don’t know what causes whales to strand, although it appears their location systems can be confused by gently sloping, sandy beaches.

Theories include that they are avoiding predators such as killer whales, or following a sick leader ashore. Human-made undersea noise could also interfere with their navigation.

Over 100 pilot whales beached on western Australian coast have been rescued, officials say

MELBOURNE, Australia — More than 100 long-finned pilot whales that beached on the western Australian coast Thursday have returned to sea, while 29 died on the shore, officials said.

Ships and a spotter plane were monitoring the rescued whales in case they returned to shore, the Parks and Wildlife Service of Western Australia state regional wildlife officer Pia Courtis said.

“So far so good, they haven’t made it back to shore, but we will keep monitoring them,” Courtis told reporters.

Local whale researcher Ian Wiese joined hundreds of volunteers who helped rescue the whales at Toby’s Inlet near the tourist town of Dunsborough.

“When I first arrived, there was, I think, 160 in the water — almost out of the water — and there were a couple of hundred people who were with the whales, they were trying to comfort them and make sure that their heads were out of the water so they could breathe. And then after an hour or so, all of a sudden the ones that were in the water that were still alive left and went out to sea,” Wiese said.

“They may well decide to come back to shore somewhere on another beach nearby or something — that often happens, but we’re hopeful that they won’t,” Wiese added.

A team of wildlife officers, marine scientists and veterinarians had earlier reached the scene and reported 26 dead among up to 160 stranded.

Wiese said he earlier thought 31 whales had died, but the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions later said the final death toll was 29.

In July, almost 100 long-finned pilot whales died or were euthanized after a two-day rescue attempt in a mass stranding on Cheynes Beach near the former whaling station of Albany, 355 kilometers (220 miles) southeast of Dunsborough.

Dunsborough is 285 kilometers (177 miles) by road south of Perth, Western Australia state’s capital and largest city.

Based on previous strandings, including the 2023 Cheynes Beach event, euthanizing the beached whales is usually the most humane outcome, the department said in a statement.

“We always hope for the best outcome,” the statement said.

Wiese said Thursday was the third mass stranding he had responded to and the result was by far the best.

“It’s been a very good story today because normally with these sorts of strandings, you wind up with a 100 whales beaching and five or six being saved,” Wiese said.

Courtis said the whales were believed to have become stranded early Thursday.

The dead whales were dragged from the water so that their carcasses didn’t attract sharks.

Marine scientist Holly Raudino said tissue samples had been taken from the dead whales to exclude potential causes of the stranding, in particular infectious disease.

Dunsborough was the scene of a mass stranding of 320 long-finned pilot whales in 1996. Only 20 died on that occasion, with rescuers returning the rest to sea.

Scientists don’t know what causes whales to strand, although it appears their location systems can be confused by gently sloping, sandy beaches.

Theories include that they are avoiding predators such as killer whales, or following a sick leader ashore. Human-made undersea noise could also interfere with their navigation.