Welcome to Melbourne, a city full of life and energy. It’s a place where you can find both famous spots and secret places. Whether you love art, nature, culture, or adventure, Melbourne has something special for you.
This city is known for its great food, drinks, coffee, art, theater, and sports. It’s a place where you can always find something fun to do. Come and see why Melbourne is a top spot for travelers.
Key Takeaways
- Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world’s most livable cities
- The city offers a vibrant food, drink, coffee, art, theater, and sports culture
- Discover iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and a wealth of exciting experiences
- Explore a diverse range of attractions, events, and activities for all interests
- Experience Melbourne’s unique charm and why it’s a must-visit destination
Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens
In the heart of Melbourne, the Royal Botanic Gardens is a peaceful oasis. It has over 8,500 plant species from all over the world. This makes it a perfect place to escape the city’s noise.
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a top spot in Melbourne. It’s great for a calm picnic or a slow walk. You can enjoy the beauty of Melbourne parks and gardens. The peaceful lakes and green lawns make you feel calm.
Don’t Miss:
- Hop on a boat for Punting on the Lake, a unique way to explore the garden’s waterways.
- Enjoy a picnic surrounded by the garden’s natural beauty, with the iconic Melbourne skyline as a backdrop.
- Discover the diverse collection of cacti and succulents in the Arid Gardens, with over 3,000 species on display.
- Contribute to climate change research by joining the ClimateWatch Walk through the gardens.
The Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne is perfect for finding peace or connecting with nature. It’s an enchanting place in the city. Come and enjoy the beauty of its green spaces.
« The Royal Botanic Gardens is a true gem in the heart of Melbourne, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. »
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Area | 38 hectares |
| Plant Species | Over 8,500 |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair and walker access available throughout the gardens |
| Opening Hours | 7:30am to 5:30pm daily |
Admire Masterpieces at the National Gallery of Victoria
In Melbourne’s heart, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is a key spot for art lovers. It’s Australia’s oldest and most loved art museum. The NGV is famous for its vast collection and big international art shows. Here, you can see everything from classic masterpieces to modern art, making it a top cultural spot in the city.
Discover the NGV’s Impressive Collection
The NGV’s collection is full of art from different times. You’ll see works by famous artists like Nicolas Poussin, Rembrandt van Rijn, and the Pre-Raphaelites. There are also modern pieces by Francis Bacon and Fred Williams. The museum has many galleries to explore, showing famous paintings like The Crossing of the Red Sea, Two Old Men Disputing, and Drifting Smoke.
Immerse Yourself in Special Exhibitions
The NGV is also known for its big international art shows. These shows bring famous artworks to Melbourne, giving visitors a close look. Right now, you can see Pharaoh: King of Ancient Egypt, a show with over 500 artifacts about ancient Egyptian kings.
Whether you love art or are just starting to get interested, the National Gallery of Victoria will amaze you. It offers different ticket prices, including discounts for members and concessions. The NGV is a top spot for anyone wanting to see the things to do in Melbourne and its lively Melbourne art and culture scene.
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| NGV Member Adult | $34 |
| NGV Member Child (5–15 years) | $16 |
| NGV Member Family | $84 |
| Adult | $38 |
| Child (5–15 years) | $18 |
| Concession | $35 |
| Family (2 adults + 3 children) | $94 |
Make sure to visit the National Gallery of Victoria, one of the best Melbourne attractions. It’s a key part of the city’s vibrant Melbourne art and culture scene.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride over Melbourne
See Melbourne from above with a hot air balloon ride. Hot air balloons are usually for the countryside, but Melbourne lets you float over the city at dawn. You’ll leave before the sun rises for a peaceful view as the city wakes up.
Look down at famous spots, the Yarra River, and the suburbs. It’s a special way to see things to do in Melbourne and Melbourne activities.
Embrace the Magic of Melbourne from Above
Picture yourself in a colorful hot air balloon as the sun lights up the city. This hot air balloon ride is a top pick for visitors. You’ll be up in the air for up to 4 hours, taking in the Melbourne sights from above.
Take photos of the city’s landmarks, the Yarra River, and the suburbs from above. It’s a silent flight through the morning sky.
- 5-year validity for all RedBalloon vouchers and gift cards, except for experiences already booked in
- 4.6-star rating based on 150,000+ customer reviews
- 6 different hot air balloon ride experiences available in Melbourne
- Prices for Melbourne hot air balloon rides range from $449 to $1,270
- Duration of the hot air balloon experience over Melbourne is up to 4 hours
- Refunds for cancellations with more than 7 days’ notice, non-refundable fee of $50 per person for cancellations between 48 hours and 7 days prior
With over 30 years of experience and a 4.9-star rating, you’re in good hands. See Melbourne at dawn and experience the city in a new way.
Drive Along the Great Ocean Road
Just a short drive from Melbourne lies one of Victoria’s most iconic attractions, the Great Ocean Road. This winding coastal route snakes along the southwest coast, starting in Torquay and ending near Warrnambool. The scenic drive offers ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region, with sweeping ocean views, lush bushland, and the chance to spot local wildlife.
Exploring the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road spans a distance of 243km (151 miles) along the coastline of Victoria, Australia. The drive typically starts in Torquay, approximately 105km (65 miles) from Melbourne, and ends at Allansford near Warrnambool. Driving the route from east to west, starting in Torquay, is recommended to enjoy optimal ocean views and accessibility to the various viewpoints along the way.
Depending on your time and interests, there are several recommended itineraries for exploring the Great Ocean Road. A 2-day itinerary involves driving directly to Port Campbell to avoid crowds, followed by a leisurely drive back to Melbourne through chosen attractions. For a more relaxed experience, a 3 to 4-day itinerary with overnight stays near Apollo Bay and Port Campbell allows you to explore additional attractions at a comfortable pace. Those with more time can opt for a 5-day itinerary, which provides ample opportunity to delve into the highlights of the Great Ocean Road, including detours to the Otways for nature walks.
| Itinerary | Duration | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 2-day Itinerary | 2 days | Drive directly to Port Campbell, leisurely drive back to Melbourne |
| 3-4 day Itinerary | 3-4 days | Explore attractions at a relaxed pace with overnight stays near Apollo Bay and Port Campbell |
| 5-day Itinerary | 5 days | Ample time to explore highlights, including detours to the Otways |
Whether you’re driving, hiking, surfing, or simply enjoying the serene vistas, the Great Ocean Road provides the perfect day trip or weekend getaway from Melbourne to connect with the stunning Melbourne sights and nature.
things to do in Melbourne: Visit Queen Victoria Market
In the heart of Melbourne, the Queen Victoria Market is a top spot for locals and tourists. It’s filled with stallholders offering fresh produce, clothes, accessories, and unique items. This iconic market is a must-see.
For Melburnians, it’s a key place for weekly shopping. But it’s also a top spot for visitors. You can try local foods, check out fashion, homewares, and antiques. It shows off Melbourne’s lively culture and is a community center.
Explore the Diverse Offerings
The Queen Victoria Market is full of surprises. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood to handmade jewelry and sustainable fashion. It has something for every interest and taste. Whether you want a big lunch or a special souvenir, you’ll find it here.
A Community Hub
The market is more than just a place to shop. It’s a community center. It hosts events like the Winter Night Market, the Melbourne Book Market, and the CRFT*WRK Melbourne Craft Fair. These events bring people together, celebrating local culture and the work of artisans and entrepreneurs.
Looking for fresh produce, unique fashion, or a taste of Melbourne’s culture? The Queen Victoria Market is a key stop. It’s a chance to see the heart of Melbourne and feel the market’s energy. It’s one of the world’s top Melbourne markets.
Wander Down Degraves Street
Degraves Street is a key spot in Melbourne, known for its lively laneways and arcades. It connects Flinders Lane and Flinders Street, offering a Parisian vibe. Here, you’ll find cozy cafes and dining spots.
Walking down Degraves Street feels like being in Europe, with the smell of coffee and the city’s buzz. The laneway is famous for its unique character. It has many cafes where you can enjoy food outside, taking in the area’s energy.
Check out the shops and see what Degraves Street has to offer. It’s perfect for a coffee break, a meal, or just exploring Melbourne’s hidden spots. Degraves Street leaves a memorable mark.
Don’t miss Degraves Street when you’re exploring Melbourne’s laneways and arcades. Its Parisian feel is an experience you won’t forget.
Highlights of Degraves Street:
- Cozy cafes with alfresco dining options
- Artisan shops and specialty boutiques
- Vibrant and lively atmosphere
- Parisian-inspired architectural elements
- Convenient location connecting Flinders Lane and Flinders Street
| Cafe/Shop | Offerings |
|---|---|
| Tulip Coffee | Open Monday to Friday, serving specialty coffee and light bites |
| Clementine’s | Open Wednesday to Saturday, 12pm to 3pm, offering European-inspired cuisine |
| John Fluevog Shoes | Specialty shoe store featuring vegan ‘leather’ and 100% recycled rubber soles |
| Il Papiro | Vintage-style leather journals and stationery |
| Pidapipo Gelateria | Artisanal gelato with unique flavors like blood orange sorbetto and rhubarb crumble |
« Degraves Street is a pint-sized, Parisian-looking lane that brings a touch of Europe to the heart of Melbourne. »
Spend the Day at Melbourne Zoo
Just minutes from Melbourne’s city center is the famous Melbourne Zoo. It’s a big place filled with a wide variety of Melbourne wildlife. You can walk through different areas, like the butterfly room and the aviary, and see the animals up close.
Melbourne Zoo lets you see many animals, from colorful birds to big elephants. It has over 300 species and more than 5,000 animals. It’s a great place for a fun and educational day with your family.
Explore and Discover
For $45 per person, you can go on an Australian Wildlife Tour at the Melbourne Zoo. Or, for $32 per person ($28.80 for members), you can have a Close Up Encounter with the animals.
The zoo has places like the Zoo Bakery, Lakeside Cafe, and Giraffe Lookout Cafe. There are also guided tours and other things to make your visit better.
Getting to Melbourne Zoo
The Melbourne Zoo is just 20 minutes from Melbourne Airport and close to the city. You can take the Route 505 bus or Tram Route 58 to get there. The tram stops right at the zoo.
The Melbourne Zoo is in a great spot, has lots of animals, and offers many facilities. It’s a top spot for anyone visiting Melbourne.
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Australian Wildlife Tour | $45 per person |
| Close Up Encounter | $32 per person ($28.80 for members) |
| Zoo Parking | $2 for 5 hours |
| Zoo Opening Hours | 9:00 AM daily |
« Visiting the Melbourne Zoo is a must-do for anyone exploring the city. The diverse array of animals and immersive exhibits make for a truly memorable day out. »
Sip a Gimlet at Gimlet
For a sophisticated and stylish drinking experience, head to Gimlet. It’s a glamorous 1920s-inspired restaurant and bar in the historic Cavendish House. Known for its expertly crafted Gimlet cocktails, made with premium spirits and garnishes. Enjoy these refined drinks in an Art Deco-inspired setting, feeling like you’re in the golden age of Melbourne’s cocktail culture.
Crafting the Perfect Gimlet
Gimlet’s signature cocktail, the Gimlet, is a balance of elegance. It combines tequila, bergamot, rose amaro, and Victorian bergamot juice. Finished with Tasmanian pepperleaf, it offers a unique and memorable taste. Whether you’re a Gimlet expert or just exploring Melbourne’s bar scene, Gimlet’s version will impress you.
Celebrating Seasonal Ingredients
Gimlet also highlights seasonal ingredients on its menu. You’ll find wood-fired flatbread with clams and chili, and a house salad with frisée, butter lettuce, watercress, and sorrel. They work with sustainable seafood producers and small-scale farmers, making each dish a true reflection of the season.
Elegant Dining and Impeccable Service
Entering Gimlet feels like stepping back in time to an era of sophistication and glamour. The 150-seat restaurant and bar boasts an Art Deco vibe, with warm and attentive service. Whether you’re having a three-course meal or just cocktails, Gimlet offers a unique taste of Melbourne’s vibrant scene.
Visit the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre
The Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre is inside the Melbourne Museum. It celebrates the rich culture of Indigenous Australians. Here, you can see interactive exhibits, performances, and artworks. These show the traditions and modern expressions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
What is Bunjilaka?
Bunjilaka is a special exhibit at the Melbourne Museum. It focuses on the Koorie experience. The exhibit has three main areas: Birrarung Gallery, Millari Garden, and Kalaya performance space.
Every year, Birrarung Gallery shows three contemporary Koorie artists. The Millari Garden grows plants important to Victoria’s first peoples.
Why Visit Bunjilaka?
Bunjilaka lets Indigenous Australians share their stories and traditions. It helps visitors understand and value the First Nations’ cultures in Melbourne and Melbourne museums. Here’s what you can do:
- See the daily eel feeding in the Millari Garden at 1:45 pm
- Explore the Milarri Garden Trail to learn about native Aboriginal plants
- Join weaving workshops by artist Bronwyn Razem, learning traditional and modern weaving
- Check out the permanent exhibits like First Peoples and Wurreka, showing the diversity of Melbourne Indigenous culture
The Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre is a key spot for learning about Indigenous Australian cultures. It’s free with museum entry, making it easy for everyone to visit and learn.
Taste the « World’s Best » Croissants at Lune Croissanterie
If you love croissants, you must visit Lune Croissanterie in Melbourne. This bakery is famous for making what many think are the best croissants in the world. They use a special lab to keep the temperature at 18°C. This helps make their croissants perfectly layered and textured.
Try these buttery, flaky croissants and see why people come from all over for them. Making these croissants takes three days. But the result is a croissant that The New York Times calls the best in the world.
Lune Croissanterie offers a classic croissant for $5.80 and many other flavors like Ham and Gruyere Croissant ($9) and Cauliflower Croissant ($10). You can also try the Kouign Amann ($6.50), Almond Croissant ($9), Pecan Pie Croissant ($10.50), and Pumpkin Pie Cruffin ($7.50). These pastries are best eaten within 2-3 hours of baking for the freshest taste.
To taste Lune’s famous croissants, go to their Fitzroy location at 119 Rose Street. Be ready for a line, as they open at 8 am on Saturdays and get busy quickly. Waiting 30 minutes is worth it for the best croissant you’ve ever had.
Lune Croissanterie is planning to open a new location in Sydney in 2023. This might challenge Melbourne’s status as the top spot for croissants. Don’t miss your chance to try this pastry perfection in its birthplace.
« Lune Croissanterie’s croissants have been dubbed ‘the world’s best’ by international critics. »
Visit the Bathrooms at Sofitel Hotel
For a unique sightseeing experience in Melbourne, check out the luxurious bathrooms at the Sofitel Hotel. They’re on the 35th floor, offering amazing views of the city. It’s a chance to see Melbourne’s landmarks while you’re taking care of your needs.
The Sofitel Melbourne has a modern powder room inspired by different architectural styles. It’s a stunning and high-tech place to use the restroom. Guests can enjoy features like Japanese Toto toilets with bidets and heated seats. And they can look at the city through huge windows.
Visiting the Sofitel Hotel’s bathrooms is a special way to see Melbourne. It’s a hidden spot that gives you a new view of the city. You get to see the skyline in a fancy, high-tech setting.
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Room Size | The entry-level King Classic room at Sofitel Melbourne is 390 sq ft in size. |
| Breakfast Discount | The hotel’s breakfast buffet is discounted to $30 AUD, down from the regular price of $47 AUD. |
| Internet Access | In-room internet access at Sofitel Melbourne is available for $39 AUD per day. |
| Room Service | Room Service at Sofitel Melbourne is available 24 hours a day. |
| Laundry Service | The hotel’s laundry service provides luxurious presentation of laundered clothes. |
If you’re in Melbourne, don’t miss the Sofitel Hotel’s bathrooms. It’s a special activity that gives you a new view of things to do in Melbourne and Melbourne sights and views.
« The Sofitel’s bathrooms offer a hidden gem experience, allowing visitors to admire the city’s iconic skyline in a luxurious and unexpected setting. »
Enjoy Carnival Rides at Melbourne’s Fun Parks
Melbourne is perfect for a day of classic carnival fun. Visit the iconic Luna Park on the St Kilda foreshore. It has a historic wooden roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and other nostalgic rides. For a modern twist, check out Funderdome or Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq. They offer laser tag, bowling, and high-tech motion rides.
Looking for thrills or family fun? Melbourne’s fun parks have it all. From Luna Park’s seaside charm to the latest in amusement park tech, there’s fun for everyone. It’s a great way to enjoy a day out with family or friends.
Thrilling Rides and Nostalgic Fun at Melbourne’s Amusement Parks
- Experience the iconic wooden roller coaster at Luna Park, a classic seaside funfair
- Explore the modern, tech-savvy attractions at Funderdome, including laser tag and bowling
- Unleash your inner daredevil on the high-speed motion rides at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq
- Enjoy a day of family-friendly entertainment and carnival-style fun at these Melbourne hotspots
« For a day of classic carnival fun, Melbourne offers several thrilling amusement parks and fun centers. »
Whether you’re into thrills or just want a fun day out, Melbourne’s parks have it. They offer endless ways to let loose and have fun. It’s a great way to bring out your inner child.
Catch a Wave or Try Surfing at URBNSURF Park
Looking for an aquatic adventure in Melbourne? The URBNSURF Park is your spot for catching waves or learning to surf, even if you’re far from the ocean. It’s a top-notch surf park, just a short drive from the city, with a wave pool that makes waves for all skill levels.
At URBNSURF, whether you’re an expert or a beginner, you can surf in a safe, urban setting. This lets you improve your skills and have fun in the heart of Melbourne. It’s a leading surf park globally and was named the best in 2021.
The park uses Wave Garden technology for its waves. It offers waves for everyone, from beginners to pros. With Melbourne’s pleasant weather all year, it’s perfect for outdoor fun.
It’s close to Melbourne Airport, making it easy to get to. You’ll find hotels and places to eat nearby. URBNSURF Park is a top spot for things to do in Melbourne, whether you’re surfing for the first time or just want to ride some waves.
- State-of-the-art wave pool generating consistent, high-quality waves
- Waves catering to surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts
- Proximity to Melbourne Airport and various accommodation options
- On-site dining options at the Three Blue Ducks café
- Convenient location just 20 minutes from the Melbourne city center
Ready for the thrill of surfing in the city? Visit URBNSURF Park and ride some waves during your Melbourne trip.
Test Your Courage at Melbourne Skydeck
For an adrenaline-fueled sightseeing experience, visit the Melbourne Skydeck at the top of the Eureka Tower. From almost 1,000 feet up, you’ll see the city in a whole new way. The Skydeck gives you 360-degree views of the Melbourne skyline. And then there’s « The Edge, » a thrilling glass platform that sticks out from the building. It lets you walk over the city below.
Are you brave enough to face your fear of heights? Step onto « The Edge » for a unique view of Melbourne’s iconic landmarks and the city’s layout. The Melbourne Skydeck also has fun and educational activities. They show off the city’s rich culture and history.
There’s more than just the Skydeck at this spot. Bar 88 is open from noon to 10pm every day. Here, you can enjoy amazing views while having a drink.
« The Eureka Skydeck in Melbourne is the highest point in the city and offers a panoramic view of the Southern Hemisphere from its highest viewing platform, Skydeck 88. »
What to Expect at Melbourne Skydeck
- 360-degree panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline from nearly 1,000 feet up
- The thrilling « The Edge » glass-floored viewing platform that extends out from the building
- Exciting and educational activities and displays highlighting Melbourne’s rich culture and history
- Bar 88 for drinks and dining with a view
Looking for an adrenaline rush or just want to see the views and sights of Melbourne? The Melbourne Skydeck is a top spot. It will give you memories to last a lifetime.
Conclusion
From the lush Royal Botanic Gardens to the thrilling carnival rides and sky-high views, this guide has shown you the fun things to do in Melbourne. It doesn’t matter if you’re visiting for the first time or you live here, there’s something for everyone. The city has lots of attractions, activities, and experiences for all interests and tastes.
Experience Melbourne’s lively art and culture, enjoy its famous food and drinks, or check out the beautiful nature around the city. You can take a hot air balloon ride over the city, have a fancy Gimlet at the Gimlet restaurant, or test your limits at the Melbourne Skydeck.
Melbourne has so much to offer, it will surely make a big impact and make you want to come back. From the famous Great Ocean Road to the busy Queen Victoria Market, the city mixes city life with nature in a special way. Dive into the lively spirit of Melbourne and make your own special memories in this amazing place.