tourist spot in melbourne australia

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.

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

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

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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Home » Travel Guides » Australia » 25 Best Things To Do In Melbourne (Australia)

25 Best Things To Do In Melbourne (Australia)

Melbourne is a hip, dynamic metropolis, with an exciting city centre, inner-city neighborhoods that are full of unique character, and lush green parks and mountain ranges where you can enjoy Australian nature at its finest.

The city is known for its many laneways, its cultural diversity, excellent dining options for all budgets, and amazing street art. It’s also known for being the coffee capital of the world, and for being regularly voted as the world’s most livable city!

Lets explore the best things to do in Melbourne :

1. Drink the world’s best coffee

It’s official: you’ll find the world’s best coffee in Melbourne, as voted by over a thousand users on website booking.com .

Melbourne beat out many of the world’s most renowned coffee cities, such as Rome and Vienna, for the title; you’ll certainly know why once you see how committed Melbourne baristas are to their craft.

It’s actually hard to find a bad cup of coffee in Melbourne: the city touts itself as a world leader in coffee and café culture, and the inhabitants are proud to be coffee snobs! Cafes in London even advertise that they have Melbourne baristas, as Australian and New Zealander baristas essentially brought high-quality coffee to the city.

Melbourne even plays host to a coffee expo, and the 2014 world barista champion Pete Licata (from the USA) has described coffee culture in Melbourne as “incredible”. If you’re a coffee lover, you’ve come to the right place.

You’ll find great coffee just wandering through the laneways of the city, and there are actually tailored tours available to coffee aficionados: check out Hidden Secret Tours or Melbourne Coffee Tours for details.

According to Yelp, the best cup of coffee in Melbourne can be found at Patricia on Little Bourke Street: it’s a tiny hole-in-the-wall place with no seating and a line-up to get in, but likely the best coffee you will ever taste! The staff are also friendly, and the place deserves the hype.

Book online: Melbourne Cafe and Coffee Culture Walk

2. Check out the amazing street art

Melbourne is very well-known for its street art, being considered one of the street art capitals of the world.

The city council has designated certain areas as approved for street artists, and the street art here is of exceptionally high quality and changes regularly; it’s a great way for budding street artists to get experience in the artistic side of graffiti, and having structured locations for this amazing creative outlet helps to reduce the levels of graffiti elsewhere, as well as adding a great urban vibe that tourists and locals both enjoy. You’ll find a map of street art in Melbourne here .

There’s even a Melbourne street art tour , run by street artists, for people who’d like a deeper understanding of what they’re seeing, how it’s made and who is involved in this fascinating underground art scene. There’s also one available on getyourguide.com .

3. Wander through laneways

An aimless wander through the many laneways of Melbourne is a wonderful way to see what this city has to offer.

City maps are available at the Federation Square Visitor Information Centre, and many hotels; some of the most interesting laneways include Centre Place, AC/DC Lane (named after the famous Aussie rock band!), Hardware Lane and Degraves Lane.

You’ll find plenty to see, do, buy and eat, and gain a new appreciation of Melbourne’s urban culture.

Available tour : Melbourne Laneways Tour

4. Visit Flinders Street Station and Federation Square

The main entrance to Flinders Street Station is a picturesque cultural symbol of Melbourne you’ll find on many postcards or tourist brochures: this gorgeous building was opened in 1910, and it is listed on the Victorian heritage register.

Inside you’ll find Australia’s busiest railway station, a small shopping area with tasty food options, and easy walking access to Southbank.

Across the road, Federation Square is another Melbourne icon, with a unique and fascinating architectural design, making the Square quite unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Once you’re at the Square, make sure that you visit the Australian Centre of the Moving Image, which has hosted fascinating displays on subjects such as Claymation, and the Ian Potter Centre art gallery.

5. Rock out

Melbourne is famous for its live music scene, particularly rock music.

There’s plenty of bands playing at any given time, and the city attracts international talent, including of the up-and-coming variety.

It’s also the home of the legendary Australian singer-songwriter-poet-author Nick Cave.

Some popular spots to catch a band include the Corner Hotel, the Evelyn Hotel, the Spotted Mallard, the Post Office Hotel, the Ding-Dong Lounge, the Esplanade Hotel and the Palais Theatre.

6. Learn how things work at Scienceworks

Scienceworks houses an exciting array of hands-on science exhibits, workshops and events.

It also includes a planetarium, a lightning room, and a mini-metropolis called Nitty Gritty Super City, that demonstrates in small-scale how a city works.

The planetarium hosts informative shows, and the Lightning Room offers 30-minute live shows that include a gigantic Tesla Coil that can generate over two million volts of electricity to produce 3 metre lightning bolts.

Children and adults alike will have a great time here!

7. Stroll the botanic gardens

The Botanic Gardens are walking distance from the city centre, and offer an oasis of calm, peace and greenery just outside of the urban bustle.

They’re a popular spot for local walkers and joggers, and the breathtaking landscapes make them ideal for a peaceful meditation session.

With more than 8,500 plant species, the botanic gardens are colorful, gorgeous and fascinating.

You could even bring a sketch book and try your hand at drawing some of the beautiful flowers or backdrops!

8. Have a gourmet Greek dinner

Melbourne has the largest Greek population of any city outside of Athens, and the close-knit, vibrant Greek community always has plenty of cultural events going on.

There’s also the wonderful Greek Precinct, where you’ll find Greek cuisine of a standard that you’d expect in Greece itself! This area also has many Greek cultural shops, and the Hellenic Museum is nearby.

If you’re in Melbourne in March or September, you may also wish to check out the Antipodes Festival or the Greek Film Festival respectively.

9. Get sporty at the MCG

The Melbourne Cricket Ground bills itself as “Australia’s favourite stadium”, with good reason.

Melbourne is a sports-mad city, and the MCG is the centre of the action.

Home to the Melbourne Cricket Club, the stadium also plays host to the wildly popular AFL, as well as international soccer, rugby and various other events.

Originally built in 1853, the stadium has been renewed many times, and is the largest stadium in Australia, as well as being the 10th largest in the world: the record for the largest crowd at the MCG is around 130,000 people.

The MCG is also home to the Australian Gallery of Sport and Olympic Museum.

Check out the MCG website for the latest on what’s on at the stadium, and catch a game of cricket or AFL to experience Melbourne’s passion for sport.

Or book a tour online: Melbourne Sports Walking Tour & MCG Tour

10. Shop till you drop

Melbourne is renowned for its world-class shopping; in particular, Chapel Street is popular with both local and international celebrities for its excellent range of high-quality clothing or visit the former Melbourne Government Post office, wich now functions as a shopping mall.

Bridge Road in Richmond is a great spot for outlet shopping, great food at budget prices, and excellent homewares.

Fitzroy is well-known for its eclectic, vintage finds, and further afield, Highpoint and Chadstone are excellent, large shopping malls with a wide range of Australian and international brands.

11. Learn about Victoria’s convict past at Old Melbourne Gaol

Old Melbourne Gaol is a museum in the city centre, which operated as a prison from its opening in 1842 to 1929. It was the site of the execution of many of Australia’s most infamous criminals, including Ned Kelly; 133 people were executed here while the prison was in operation.

The museum offers a glimpse into life in the 1800s; some mentally ill and homeless people were also interred in the prison, and the harsh conditions they were subject to seem quite shocking by modern standards.

The museum includes an impressive range of artifacts, including the death masks of many executed criminals.

The museum is considered by some to be haunted, and ghost tours are offered by the museum that tell stories recorded by visitors and staff alike.

Related tour : Melbourne Complete City Walking Tour

12. Visit the Immigration Museum

The Immigration Museum is a celebration of the melting pot of modern-day Australia, and the many cultures that have come together to make this country what it is today.

Located in the beautiful Old Customs House, the museum tells the stories of the diverse populations of Melbourne and Victoria at large, and tells of the immigration experience, the definitions of identity, and the long and arduous journey that many immigrants would have experienced on their way to Australia.

It also includes the Customs Gallery, a record of the past incarnation of the Old Customs House as the focal point for immigration, trade and shopping during the 19th Century.

13. Have a night out at the Crown Casino Comple

The Crown Casino Complex is a massive casino and resort complex adjacent to the Yarra River; it is the largest casino complex in the southern hemisphere, and one of the largest internationally.

Open 24 hours, 7 days a week, except for 3 public holidays per year, it’s great fun if you enjoy gambling, but has so much more to offer: it’s a luxury shopping destination, as well as having wonderful restaurants and pumping nightlife.

The Atrium area is gorgeous, with lovely fountains and sound/light shows, and there are pyrotechnic towers just outside the complex itself that are fascinating to watch; shooting fireballs into the night sky, they are referred to as the “Gas Brigades”, and are the largest of their type in the world.

14. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the Queen Victoria Markets

The Queen Victoria Markets have been an important food hub of Melbourne since they were opened in 1878. Home to some of Melbourne’s tastiest produce stalls and delicatessens, you’ll find excellent cheeses, olives and smoked meats here.

The building itself is a gorgeous example of Victorian architecture, and you’ll also find many artisanal crafts made by local creatives, as well as souvenirs for your friends back home.

Various events are held at the markets during the year, so check the website to see what’s on.

Suggested tour : Melbourne Multicultural Markets Culinary Culture Tour

15. Admire Aboriginal art

There are several Aboriginal art galleries within Melbourne’s city centres and surrounds, as well as an extensive collection of Aboriginal art within the City Gallery (inside Town Hall), the Flinders Lane Gallery, the Ian Potter Museum of Art and NGV International.

Aboriginal art is lauded internationally for its beauty and symbolism, and Melbourne is an excellent spot to learn about the importance of art in indigenous culture, and the beauty of the artworks.

Available tour : Melbourne Cultural Highlights City Walk

16. Enjoy a taste of Italy on Lygon Street

The Lygon Street Italian Precinct, also known as Little Italy, is a gorgeous leafy street running through several Melbournian suburbs, with a rich café culture that introduced Melbourne to the love of high-quality coffee for which the city is now famous.

You’ll find world-class Italian dining here, as well as Italian produce and culture stores, the beautiful Lygon Buildings (built in 1888), and shopping boutiques.

17. Visit the Block Arcade

The Block Arcade is a retail precinct housed in a gorgeous heritage shopping arcade, opened in 1892. Rich in history and boasting stunning architecture, the Block Arcade is a step into the nostalgia of the past, as well as housing some lovely luxury boutiques, and the quirkly Art of Dr. Seuss gallery, the Hopetoun tearooms and Haigh’s chocolates.

18. Have a picnic at the Carlton Gardens, and visit the Royal Exhibition Building

The Carlton Gardens complex are a 26-hectare site containing the Royal Exhibition Building, Melbourne Museum and Imax cinema.

The site is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and is an easy walk from the city centre.

It’s well worth a visit for the immaculate gardens, lovely fountains and beautiful architecture.

The gardens are a lovely spot for a stroll, and to get to know a diverse range of Australian and international flora (and occasionally fauna!) You can also often catch events here, including gardening festivals.

Included in : Melbourne 3-Hour Small Group Tour

19. Go penguin-spotting at St Kilda

St Kilda is full of attractions for tourists and locals alike, from the delicious cakes of Acland Street to the community gardens and the thriving nightlife.

There’s also a gorgeous beach, with famous Victorian beachhouses, and a pier; surprising to many, this busy suburb of Melbourne has some unexpected residents, a colony of the St little penguins! This colony established itself in the 1970s on the St Kilda breakwater, and arrive just after sunset every night of the year, being particularly numerous in summer.

Penguin guides are on duty during the daylight savings period, to answer any questions about the penguins that you may have.

They do request that visitors treat the penguins, their nesting sites, eggs and chicks with respect: they love their family as much as you do!

Top-rated Day Trip available: Phillip Island: Penguins and Wildlife Full-Day Tour

• 20.  Go bushwalking in the Dandenong Ranges

The Dandenong Ranges is a gorgeous mountain range on the outskirts of Melbourne, and it’s a perfect spot for walkers, cyclists, hikers, nature-lovers and bird-watchers.

The breathtaking scenery in the ranges make it a popular tourist destination, both for active travellers and for romantic getaways; it’s also a popular spot for wedding photos.

You’ll find many charming little towns within the ranges, fantastic farm-gate produce, and the famous Puffing Billy steam train.

Recommended tour : Dandenong Ranges Tour by Puffing Billy Train

21. Catch a festival

Melbourne is renowned for its festivals; it’s worth checking out the visitor centre in Federation Square, or looking online, to find out what’s going on during your visit.

Some particularly popular festivals include White Night (an illumination festival in the inner city), the Lonsdale Street Greek Festival, Cultural Diversity Week, the Lunar New Year celebrations, the Midsumma Festival, the Moomba Festival and the Christmas Festival.

22. Go on a safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo

The Werribee Open Range Open Zoo is a bit of a trek from the city centre, but it’s well worth it: this African-themed safari-style zoo allows you to get very close to a wide variety of exotic animals.

It also hosts various events, including the Rhythm of Africa.

It’s a great spot to keep younger travelers entertained, but also a lot of fun for wildlife-loving adults.

Book online :  Werribee Open Range Zoo Admission Ticket

23. Go gallery-hopping

There’s over 100 galleries in Melbourne, ranging from small studio galleries to the huge NGV, and with almost any art style you can imagine, including Melbourne’s iconic Heidelberg style.

If you’re an art lover, then you may wish to spend several days getting to know Melbourne’s vibrant art scene.

You’ll find some of the better-known galleries listed here . One currently very popular is the Immersive Art Gallery .

24. Go on a wooden roller-coaster built in 1912

Luna Park opened in St Kilda in 1912, and the Scenic Railway started operating in the same year.

This rollercoaster holds the honor of being the world’s oldest continually operating rollercoaster, and while it looks quite rickety by today’s standards, it’s a fascinating taste of what theme parks of the past must have been like.

Luna Park charges a small $5 entry fee for those wanting to visit the park without going on any of the rights (to help cover the preservation of the park). Even if you’re not a fan of theme park rides, you can still get some great photos on the grounds, and the rich history of the site makes it worth visiting in its own right. If you change your mind and want to go on any of the rides the entree fee will be deducted from the ticket price.

25. Take a river cruise

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

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

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

25 Best Things To Do In Melbourne (Australia):

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

Melbourne   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Boy_Anupong | Getty Images

11 Best Things To Do in Melbourne

Updated Apr. 14, 2021

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

• All Things To Do

Shrine of Remembrance Shrine of Remembrance free

To commemorate the 19,000 Victorians killed during World War I, the city of Melbourne built the Shrine of Remembrance in 1924. The monument, which was inspired by famous Greek sights like the Parthenon and the Acropolis , features several memorials, including the bronze Gallipoli Memorial, The Forecourt (a World War II memorial that houses the Eternal Flame) and the Remembrance Garden (where fallen soldiers from post-World War II conflicts are honored). Several military-themed exhibits are also available inside the shrine.

According to many recent travelers, the Shrine of Remembrance is one of Melbourne's best attractions. Though a sobering experience, you'll walk away with a greater understanding and appreciation of Australia's participation in major conflicts. Past visitors recommended joining one of the free property tours, which are offered daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and last about an hour. And for incredible views of the grounds and the Melbourne skyline, check out the second-floor balcony.

Port Campbell National Park Port Campbell National Park free

One of Australia's most stunning natural wonders is the Twelve Apostles rock formation found in Port Campbell National Park. Seven stacked rock structures constitute the Twelve Apostles, six of which can be seen from the attraction's main viewing platform. Other landmarks situated in the park include The Arch, London Bridge and a grotto.

Whether you love the great outdoors or just want to snap some jaw-dropping photos, you should consider making the 144-mile trek to Port Campbell National Park. If you decide to drive here, take some time to travel along the Great Ocean Road, which offers terrific views of the park. Another way to see the site is by helicopter. And if you're lucky, you may spot wild koalas and kangaroos during your visit.

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne free

Founded in the mid-1800s, the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne encompass 94 acres of greenery. Some of the gardens' highlights include region-specific plant collections, the Rare and Threatened Species Collection, the Gardens House and the Perennial Border. There are also pathways, shaded benches and statues situated throughout the property.

Though you can wander through this attraction within a couple of hours, past visitors recommended taking your time to truly appreciate all of the plants housed here. It's a great spot to read or enjoy an afternoon picnic as well. If you're traveling with kids, check out the childrens garden, which offers a variety of hands-on activities.

Popular Tours

Great Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour from Melbourne

(4791 reviews)

from $ 104.12

Phillip Island Penguin, Brighton Beach, Moonlit Sanctuary from Melbourne

(2428 reviews)

from $ 117.56

Puffing Billy And Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour

(227 reviews)

from $ 131.66

Yarra Valley Yarra Valley free

Though you'll find five wine regions near Melbourne, the area's most well-known is the Yarra Valley. More than 70 wineries are located in this region. Two of the Yarra Valley's most popular vineyards include Domaine Chandon , which specializes in sparkling wine, and Giant Steps , where you'll find several kinds of chardonnays and pinot noirs.

Several wine tours throughout the Yarra Valley are available. Tour operators recommended by past visitors include Wild Wombat Winery Tours , Yarra Valley Winery Tours and Yarra Valley Private Winery Tours . If you're traveling without a car, consider choosing a tour operator that offers pick-ups and drop-offs from the CBD.

State Library Victoria State Library Victoria free

The State Library Victoria is a must-see attraction for book worms, architecture lovers and history buffs. Built in 1856 on 2 acres of land in Melbourne's central business district, the library houses a variety of books and historic artifacts, including famed Australian outlaw Ned Kelly's suit of armor and a collection of rare children's books from the 19th century. The site's architecture is equally as impressive. Pay close attention to the library's exterior, which features neoclassical architectural details like stone columns and a symmetrical layout, as well as the octagonal La Trobe Reading Room.

One of the best ways to see the State Library Victoria is to participate in one of the property's free tours. Most recent travelers said all of the tours are informative. Some tours are offered once daily, while others are only available on select days, so consult the library's website and plan your visit accordingly. Tours last approximately one to two hours.

National Gallery of Victoria National Gallery of Victoria free

Opened in 1861, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is the oldest and most visited art gallery in Australia. Local artists are mostly featured, although there are works from international masters like Anthony van Dyck, Claude Monet and René Magritte. You'll also find unique exhibits like Ichwan Noor's "Beetle Sphere" – a Volkswagen Beetle that's been molded into a sphere – and Kohei Nawa's "PixCell-Red Deer" – a taxidermied deer covered in glass and crystal beads.

Though many of the museum's free collections are worth exploring, several recent travelers said paying extra for specialty exhibits is a must. Notable current and past temporary exhibits focus on iconic artists and art styles. The permanent Pacific Art collection, which displays indigenous artwork and artifacts from Pacific nations like Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and New Zealand, is another favorite.

The Block Arcade The Block Arcade free

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, an art lover, a fashionista or a foodie, you'll find something to enjoy at The Block Arcade. More than 25 boutiques, galleries and specialty food stores are housed within this stunning structure, which features skylights, cast-iron details, mosaic floors and stained glass windows. Noteworthy shops include Haigh's Chocolates, Hopetoun Tearooms and a Dr. Seuss-themed art gallery.

Past visitors appreciated The Block Arcade's relaxed yet grand atmosphere and delectable food offerings. If you're a photography buff, you'll want to bring your camera. And if you visit during the holidays, you'll see beautiful Christmas decorations.

City Circle Tram City Circle Tram free

The City Circle Tram is a must-do. For one, it gives you a nice overview of Melbourne's top tourist attractions . More importantly, it's free. Just look for a burgundy and cream tram and hop right on. When you want to get off, push a red button (near the handrails) or pull down on the cord above your head.

Trams can get crowded, especially during the peak tourist season. However, many recent travelers said the trams are extremely convenient and efficient. If you don't feel like standing on a crowded tram, consider waiting for the next one. They depart every 12 minutes from the Flinders Street Station.

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

(701 reviews)

from $ 95.39

Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour

(68 reviews)

from $ 145.10

Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise

(1230 reviews)

from $ 124.27

Melbourne Cricket Ground Melbourne Cricket Ground

The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is Melbourne's main stadium for cricket and the beloved Aussie rules-style of rugby (or footy). The National Sports Museum is also located here, and tours of the property are offered on select days.

The best way to see this sports arena is to come for a footy or cricket match. Recent visitors said all views, including those from the cheap seats, are superb. You'll find that food and refreshments served here are pricey but comparable to those offered at other Aussie stadiums.

Melbourne Museum Melbourne Museum

This is Melbourne's natural and cultural history museum, and there are all sorts of wonders to peer at, including several dinosaur skeletons and the preserved Phar Lap – Australia's late famous racehorse. Other must-see exhibits include a collection of Aboriginal artifacts and "Sam the Koala," an exhibit that focuses on the Black Saturday bushfires of 2009.

While some recent travelers enjoyed the museum, others noted that some exhibits lack information and did not justify their high admissions fees. Most agreed, though, that this attraction is great for kids.

Melbourne Zoo Melbourne Zoo

The Melbourne Zoo opened in 1862 and holds the distinction of being Australia's oldest zoo. The property is home to more than 300 animal species, most of which are free to roam in areas that mimic their own natural habitats. Aussie natives include kangaroos, wallabies, platypuses, koalas and wombats. And don't miss the Australian fur seals or the Australian little penguins: They're too cute to forget.

Past visitors said the Melbourne Zoo offers plenty for families to see and do. Plan on spending a half or full day here if you want to see the bulk of the zoo's animals. And if you have time, check out one of the "Meet the Keeper" talks, which give you a chance to see and learn more about animals like giraffes, elephants, seals and orangutans. Meet the Keeper talks are offered every 30 minutes between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

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10 Top Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on October 3, 2023

The city of Melbourne, is a coastal metropole with a cosmopolitan vibe. It is considered to the be the cultural capital of Australia, and it is easy to see why. Melbourne is home to galleries, gardens, museums and nature reserves. There is an abundance of interesting architecture ranging from Victorian structures to contemporary designs. With great food, nightlife, shopping and sports, Melbourne is a clear winner for an Australian getaway. An overview of the best attractions in Melbourne:

10. Royal Exhibition Building [SEE MAP]

Make your way to the district of Carlton in order to visit the magnificent Royal Exhibition Building. Constructed in 1880, the structure served as the meeting place for the very first Australian Federal Parliament. While parts of the building are gone thanks to fires, the main hall still stands, topped by an incredible domed ceiling. The Royal Exhibition Building is a common place for local events and conventions, but you can walk right in during open hours for a self-guided tour. Explore the incredible galleries, the beautiful furnishings and the impressive designs of the original architect, Joseph Reed.

9. Fitzroy Gardens [SEE MAP]

Just on the edge of the CBD, or Central Business District, is Fitzroy Gardens. The gardens date back to 1848, when they were set aside as a public space. At the time, the establishment of a beautiful public park was rare, so it is an important reminder of Melbourne’s role as the people’s city and as the garden city. Since Fitzroy Gardens is more than 160 years old, it boasts a number of older, tall trees. Blue gums, willows and elm trees were all popular during the 19th century. Today, you can tour the Victorian landscapes, but you can all see an ornamental lake and even the cottage where James Cook’s parents once lived, which was brought all the way from England to Melbourne.

8. Hosier Lane [SEE MAP]

Inject some local flavor into your trip to Melbourne by exploring Hosier Lane. Just a short walk from the banks of the Yarra River, Hosier Lane is ground zero for local street art and culture. The stone pathway is lined with walls that serve as canvases, and each is decorated with a variety of pieces. You can admire hastily drawn sketches next to murals using bold, bright colors. Grab a camera and walk up and down the lane on your own, or take part in a guided tour. Since you’re in the area, keep walking until you hit Rutledge, a less known but equally impressive gallery street in the area.

7. Melbourne Zoo [SEE MAP]

In the Parkville district of the city, you’ll find the Melbourne Zoo. This zoo is special because the animals live in natural settings, their habitats designed for animal comfort rather than visitor views. While the Melbourne Zoo boasts plenty of local animals, you’ll find some less common species as well. Don’t miss the Wild Sea Exhibit, where you can see penguins and seals up close. Also noteworthy is the baboon lookout, a spectacular spot where you can look for the members of a large baboon family. There’s also a 19th century English carousel in the zoo that kids will definitely want to ride.

6. Federation Square [SEE MAP]

If you want to get to the heart and soul of Melbourne, make your way to Federation Square. This is a central meeting place where lots of locals gather, and it is the ultimate spot for people watching. It’s also a place you’ll almost certainly pass through at some point, since it is a major transport hub and the site of the city’s Visitor Centre. Federation Square is where you’ll find the Australian section of the National Gallery of Victoria as well as the Australian Centre for the Moving Image. Come for the attractions but linger at the sidewalk cafes and bars to experience some of the local flavor.

5. National Gallery of Victoria [SEE MAP]

Australia’s biggest, oldest and most impressive art museum is located right in the city. The National Gallery of Victoria, known to locals as NGV, boasts an incredible collection of important works of art. The NGV is actually made up of two parts. The first, located in St. Kilda, is called the NGV International. This is where you’ll find art from Europe, Asia and the Americas. At The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, works come indigenous people, early colonial settlers and contemporary Australian artists. The two NGC branches are home to pieces by Rembrandt, Monet and Tom Roberts, just to name a few.

4. Melbourne Cricket Ground [SEE MAP]

The largest cricket stadium in the country, and one of the largest in the world, is the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Located in Yarra Park, the stadium is known to locals as simply The G. Built in the middle of the 19th century, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is virtually always going through some sort of renewal or remodel. Even if you’re not able to attend a cricket game while you’re visiting, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is worth a visit. You’re free to check it out while exploring the National Sports Museum, which is located on the grounds.

3. Eureka Tower [SEE MAP]

Smack dab in the city center is Eureka Tower, the tallest observation deck in all of Melbourne. If you want panoramic views over the city, this is the only spot worth visiting. When you visit, you’ll head to one of the twin elevators. In under 40 seconds, you’ll be whisked all the way from the ground level to the 88th floor. If you’re feeling bold, you can exchange the views of the Skydeck for the thrills of The Edge. The Edge is a glass square where even the floor is clear, providing unparalleled views from every single angle.

2. Queen Victoria Market [SEE MAP]

One of the must-see attractions in Melbourne is the Queen Victoria Market. It’s a huge open-air market, one of the largest in the world, and it dates back to the 19th century. Locals call is the Queen Vic or just Vic Market, and the name comes not from the Queen but from the location at the corner of Queen and Victoria Streets. The best way to experience the market is on foot, browsing the stalls and vendors selling everything from fresh farm veggies to handmade jewelry to specialty clothing items. Grab something tasty to eat, or pick up a refreshing beverage, and spend the day in this relaxed, exciting environment in the heart of the city.

1. Royal Botanic Gardens [SEE MAP]

In the high-end neighborhood of South Yarra, you’ll find the Royal Botanic Gardens. This is a lush, green oasis just steps from the heart of Melbourne, but it feels a million miles away. Within the Royal Botanic Gardens, you can stroll along the Australian Forest Walk, admiring local species and plant life along the way. Breathe in deeply while in the Rose Collection, a colorful array of blooms with a very romantic atmosphere. For a special treat, head to Ornamental Lake. On the shore, you can join a brief guided tour from a punt, a small boat that lets you see the garden from a new perspective.

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December 11, 2023 at 3:43 am

I found Melbourne very comfortable. It is a seaside metropolis with a distinct international character. It is understandable why it is regarded as Australia’s cultural capital.

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Melbourne

39 BEST Places to Visit in Melbourne (2024)

Melbourne is a multicultural haven, full of foods and cultures that can’t be found in the same concentrations in any other city in Australia. And that’s part of what makes the city such an exciting place to visit, because you will be able to eat, shop, and experience things that come from all over the world. This is a city that you visit because you want to experience that diversity in a very Australian way!

However, Melbourne isn’t all great food, it’s also gained a reputation lately as one of the most dangerous cities in Australia. A lot of this is media hype, but there are places in Melbourne that should be avoided if you want to have a safe and happy visit to the city. This isn’t hard to do, especially with our ultimate list of the best places to visit while you’re Down Under in Melbourne!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Melbourne:

These are the best places to visit in melbourne, faq on the best places to visit in melbourne, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in melbourne.

The CBD is the centre of Melbourne. It’s the neighbourhood at the heart of the action and is home to Melbourne’s most renowned sights and quality places to stay, which is why the CBD is the best area in Melbourne for sightseeing and exploring.

• Admire the architecture of the iconic Flinders Street Station.
• See your favourite fish and aquatic animals at SEA LIFE Aquarium Melbourne.
• Step back in time at the Old Melbourne Gaol.

Backpacking Melbourne is simply a must. The city has so much to offer for every traveller that you could spend weeks just exploring the different neighborhoods. Since not all backpackers can stay for this long, we’ve created an epic Melbourne itinerary . It might just be a guideline but at least you can be sure to fit in all of the important hotspots.

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#1 – National Gallery of Victoria

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• Perfect for art lovers.
• Includes some world-class displays and paintings by the greatest masters from the past.

Why it’s so awesome : This gallery is actually made up of two different venues, the NGV International and the NGV Australia, both of them containing world-class art. There are also a number of exhibits by Aboriginal artists, which means that you can check out this part of Australia’s past and present.

What to do there: Make sure you don’t miss the Rembrandt, Tiepolo, and Bonnard that makeup part of this gallery’s permanent collection. The entrance also boasts a water wall that’s a great place to take photographs to remember your day by!

#2 – The ACMI – Cool place to see in Melbourne with friends!

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

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

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

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#3 – The Great Ocean Road – Where to go in Melbourne if you’re a beach lover

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

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

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

#4 – The Queen Victoria Market – Where to go in Melbourne if you love to shop!

• If you’re looking for a bargain, this is where you’ll find it.
• A great place to bargain hunt.
• And if you’re sick of eating in restaurants, buy some fresh produce and make your own!

Why it’s so awesome : This is an open-air market that’s filled with people who are passionate about their products and want to share them with everyone. It’s where the locals go for fresh vegetables, meat and small goods, but it’s also become popular amongst tourists for its relaxed vibe and great food. You’ll find everything at this market from food to clothes and toys, so wander the aisles and see what you can discover.

What to do there: The market is closed Mondays and Wednesdays so make sure you pick the right day to go. And while you’re there, wander the stalls looking for a bargain or for a unique souvenir to take home with you. When you’re done, check out some of the food options in the area. There’s a doughnut van called the American Doughnut Kitchen that makes juicy, gooey concoctions that are to die for!

#5 – Eureka Skydeck

• Not the tallest building in the world but with a unique twist that will scare you to pieces!
• You’ll get some amazing pictures from this spot as well as a view of the whole city.

Why it’s so awesome : Australia doesn’t have enormous skyscrapers like other countries so they can’t compete when it comes to tall observation decks. Instead, they choose to compete in another way. The Eureka Skydeck is hair-raising, in the best sense of the word. The Edge extends three meters from the 88th floor of the Tower and is designed to creak when you walk on it. So basically, you’re walking on glass that sounds like it’s going to break under your feet.

What to do there : This Skydeck is only for people with strong stomachs and nerves of steel, but once you’re up there the view is worth the fright. You can even  book in advance  to get exclusive offers and the chance to upgrade to the Edge Experience (which involves a glass cube 300m above ground with you inside it). It’s the best view of Melbourne you’ll get in the city, and you should try going up there at night if you want to see the city’s lights against the dark. We understand if heights aren’t your thing though and you’d prefer to  stay in an Airbnb  with great views instead.

#6 – The Astor Theater

• For lovers of old movies.
• A unique Art Deco building that turns heads!

Why it’s so awesome : The Astor Cinema has been in operation since 1936 and is the last cinema with a single screen in Melbourne. The building is Art Deco and the insides hark back to the old days of theater, with golden curtains and a distinctly old-world feel to everything. The movies on offer match that impression. The theater shows a mix of classic and new films as well as film festivals, independent films and double features for the really hardcore movie fans.

What to do there : This theater has a lot of special events and the sumptuous surroundings make a movie feel that much more amazing. You can get a cheap ticket on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, so check out what’s showing, take your friends with you, and enjoy a 1930s cinema experience!

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#7 – The Royal Botanic Gardens – A nice quiet place to see in Melbourne

• A serene space with lots of green areas and places to sit in the grass.
• You can take a tour through the garden or just go for a walk on your own and see what you can find.

Why it’s so awesome : Everyone needs a break from the city sometimes and the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne will give you the rest you need. These gardens contain more than 8,500 species of plants, lush lawns and pristine water features, which all make it the best place in the city to sit down and revitalize.

#8 – Brunswick Street – One of the more unique places to visit in Melbourne!

• The best place in the city to find retro clothes!
• A slightly quirky area that’s a remedy for the modern city.

Why it’s so awesome : Melbourne is a busy modern city, but it still has its alternative side and the center of that is Brunswick Street. This is where you’ll find shops, people, cafes and restaurants that are all a bit different. The vibe is determinedly bohemian, and you’ll find everything from great second-hand bookstores to the best vintage clothes shops.

What to do there : Make sure that you check out the vintage clothes shops. Melbourne is famous for them and there are several of them in this area. Try Vintage Sole , Yesteryear Vintage Clothing and Hunter Gatherer just to name a few. And other than that, just wander and see what you can find. This is a great place for people watching too as the vibe is relaxed and cool and attracts that kind of crowd too.

#9 – The Curtin House

• All of Melbourne on six floors.
• Some of the best shopping and restaurants in the city all in one place!

Why it’s so awesome : Spending time at the Curtain House is like seeing all of Melbourne in one shot. This house has six floors of interesting, amazing and weird shops that have become famous for their variety. The only reason you’ll need to hide your money while traveling in Melbourne is here because of the risk that you’ll spend all of it in one go. You’ll find a specialist bookshop, hairdressers, restaurants and the best bars in the city all packed in together.

What to do there : Explore of course! Have a haircut, look for books and clothes and make sure you check out the bar and band room at the famous Toff in Town. When you’re tired, you can get a meal and spend the rest of the night at the Rooftop Bar, overlooking the city. In fact, if you don’t have much time in Melbourne, you can get a pretty good snapshot of the whole city just by spending a day in this building.

#10 – Chinatown

• An area established in the 1850s that’s now the longest continuous Chinese settlement in the western world.
• The oldest Chinatown in the southern hemisphere.
• So many amazing restaurants you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Why it’s so awesome : This Chinatown district has been in Melbourne for over 160 years and it shows no signs of slowing down. It’s packed full of restaurants, shops and sights, the likes of which you’ll rarely see outside of China, and is a fascinating and busy place to spend an afternoon and evening.

What to do there : Make sure you explore the shops, karaoke bars and duty-free stores, but mostly you should go to Chinatown to eat. There are so many amazing restaurants in this area that you’ll probably have trouble picking one, so don’t even try! Instead, go from one to the other and eat snacks, mains and desserts at different places.

#11 – Old Melbourne Goal – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Melbourne

• A creepy and sometimes grisly look at the past.
• You can see the armor left behind by famous Australian outlaw Ned Kelly, with blood still attached!

Why it’s so awesome : Australia was once a giant open prison and so a visit to a small prison should be way high on your Australia itinerary. You may have your complaints about the modern criminal justice system but one look at the past will probably change that. This place is a haunting reminder of just how bad things got in the past and it will definitely make you grateful for the modern day. The goal opened in 1845 and is one of the oldest buildings in Melbourne. 133 people were hung in this building, so there are a lot of ghost stories about it.

What to do there : There’s lots to see and do in this goal. You can wander around the creepy, historical building on your own, experience a modern-day arrest procedure, and stand in the dock of the Court. And if you’re interested in exploring the more ghostly side of the goal, there are regular one-hour tours where you’ll learn all the grisly details. Also, make sure you have a look at the armor and death mask of famous Australian outlaw Ned Kelly. He’s an icon and almost a role model to the locals, so his blood-soaked armor holds pride of place.

#12 – St. Kilda – A great place in Melbourne if you love to shop!

• You might not think of Melbourne in connection with beaches, but it has St. Kilda!
• If you like cake, you’ll love this area.
• A great place for people who love to shop.

Why it’s so awesome : There are two main strips in St. Kilda that you need to see. The first is Fitzroy Street, with high-end designer stores and restaurants. And the other is Acland Street, which is where cake lovers come to put their blood sugar through the roof. This street has been famous for its cakes since 1934 and there are several cake shops along with it that you absolutely must experience!

What to do there : Go with an empty stomach and eat some cake! Better yet, stay in a hostel in St. Kilda so you can eat cake for breakfast! You’ll find everything from Cheesecake to vanilla slices and chocolate creations that will test your willpower and the strength of your trouser waistline! And afterwards, go down to the beach and work it off paddle boarding , or just sit in the sand and digest.

#13 – The Melbourne Museum

• The perfect place to learn more about Australia’s history.
• It’s a huge space, so it’s best seen in small bites.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum is enormous and filled with displays, cinemas, postmodern art and interactive areas. It’s a great place for the whole family too as there are permanent galleries just for children as well as a wealth of interesting displays where they can interact with the exhibits and learn through play. For adults who are interested in Australian history, there are displays about some interesting and slightly unusual facets of it.

What to do there : This museum is huge so it’s usually best if you make the choice to see only a few displays. The display dedicated to Phar Lap, Australia’s most famous racing horse, is a must-see as long as you’re not squeamish. The horse’s body is preserved and on display, so maybe don’t let the kids see it. There’s also a slightly disturbing display about the history of mental health treatment in Australia. It’ll make you very grateful that you were born in modern times.

#14 – The Cherry Bar

• Australia’s best live music scene.
• You’ll probably see some up and coming bands at this venue!

Why it’s so awesome : Melbourne is the center of the live music scene in Australia and this bar is the reason why. Over the years, it’s booked some of Australia’s best up-and-coming talent as well as the country’s biggest bands and singers.

What to do there : Just enjoy the scene. This small bar is famous for the quality of the acts it books and yet it hasn’t changed in over a decade. It’s still a little, rough and ready bar with graffiti on the walls. And that roughness is all part of the bar’s charm.

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#15 – Yarra Valley – A must-see for foodies!

• The best food in the city just outside the city.
• A stunning natural area with amazing, rolling landscape.
• If you like wine, you absolutely must try the options in the Yarra Valley.

Why it’s so awesome : Melbourne is a huge sprawling city where we recommend first-time visitors stay in the CBD . You wouldn’t think that there could be a green, lush area so close to it until you reach the Yarra Valley. Less than an hour from the CBD, this is the state’s best food and wine destination and you’ll find wineries, cellars and gourmet dining establishments everywhere.

What to do there : If you like wine, you’ll be in heaven. Take a winery tour around to the best wineries in the region and then put some food in your stomach to soak up all that alcohol at one of the many amazing restaurants set amongst the rolling green hills. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, visit the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery for the best sweet snacks in the region. Join a gourmet tour to really get the full experience.

Wonder how to spend a weekend in Melbourne? Head over to our   insider’s Weekend in Melbourne guide!

#16 – Lygon Street

• The little Italy of Melbourne!
• If you enjoy Italian food, you’ll find amazing bars, eateries and pizzeria in this area.

Why it’s so awesome : Melbourne is an intensely multicultural city and nowhere is this more clear than in Little Italy on Lygon Street. This area contains some of the best restaurants and eateries in the city as well as dessert shops, books stores and independent theaters.

What to do there : Eat your way across Italy. The bars and restaurants in this area are top-notch and you can go from one to the other enjoying a variety of courses. When you’re ready to walk around and work off all the food, check out the Readings Bookstore and the independent theater La Mama. You’re bound to find something to do!

Pssst! Haven’t packed yet? Check out our ultimate  Australia Packing List  to know what to bring with you on your Australian adventure!

#17 – Abbotsford Convent

• There’s a lot of history in this place, and you can feel it the moment you walk in.
• Today, it’s a bustling center for artists and other creatives.
• It’s surrounded by amazing gardens.

Why it’s so awesome : This site was a convent in the 1800s, then an orphanage and an aged care facility. And the weight of that past can be felt the moment you step onto the grounds and look up at the gothic spires. Now, it’s a creative hub, with amazing art inside and stunning surroundings. So if you’re looking for a bit of history and a relaxed, natural area, this is the place to visit.

What to do there : Australia doesn’t have a lot of history, its western history is only a few hundred years long after all, but what it does have is fascinating. Explore this site and the history it represents but enjoy the present as well. The artwork in the galleries and the gardens are amazing and are well worth seeing. And when you’re hungry, try the restaurant on site. It’s a vegetarian restaurant where you pay what you think the meal is worth.

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#18 – Federation Square

• There’s always something going on in this area, just find out what’s on and be part of it.
• This area contains interesting and divisive architecture.

Why it’s so awesome : This community hub has a geometric design that has caused a lot of argument over the years and yet it’s still the center of the city. There’s always something going on in this area including events, talks, performances, markets and activities. So no matter what you enjoy, chances are that you’ll find an event in this area that you’ll love!

What to do there: Before you arrive in the city, check out what’s on in Federation Square and make sure you attend the events that you’re interested in. But if that’s too much effort, just show up when you have a free afternoon! There’s sure to be something going on there that’ll interest you.

#19 – The MCG

• The incredibly violent football that Australians call AFL!
• There’s nothing like the comradery that comes from being in the crowd during an Australian football game.
• Fun for all ages.

Why it’s so awesome : Australians love their sport and AFL in particular and yet this game is nearly incomprehensible to outsiders. That doesn’t matter though, because the best part of the game is the sense of comradery. At sports events in Australia, there’s no anger or aggression against opposing teams. Instead, there is a general sense of community and togetherness that’s hard to beat.

What to do there : If you’re there in the right season, you can watch a game with a meat pie in one hand and a beer in the other. But even if you’re in Melbourne during the off-season, there are lots of sports played in the MCG including cricket. And make sure you check out the National Sports Museum while you’re there for a snapshot of Australia’s obsession with everything sports-related.

#20 – Phillip Island – A very cool place in Melbourne to go for a day

• A place for animal lovers.
• Remember that the penguins are wild animals so don’t try to touch or feed them.
• You’ll take some of the cutest pictures ever on this island.

Why it’s so awesome : Phillip Island is a short way from Melbourne and is basically a beach island that’s populated by animals. There’s great swimming and surfing on this island, but the animal watching is the real draw. You’ll see seals and tiny penguins marching across the sand like soldiers. And that’s a sight that sticks with you.

What to do there: Enjoy the wildlife! There are more seals on this island than people and the tiny penguins are quite possibly the cutest thing ever! Every evening at the same time they come ashore at the beach and march towards their burrows, and this is something everyone should see at least once.

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#21 – The Crown

• A huge entertainment complex with everything you could want to do in one place.
• If you want a fun, easy afternoon, this is where you can have it.

Why it’s so awesome : The Crown is basically a big entertainment complex that contains everything you could want for a fun, easy day out. There are a huge number of shops of all descriptions, eateries, theaters, nightclubs and cafes, so no matter what time of day you go there you’ll find something happening.

What to do there : Wander around the shops, duck into one of the many cafes for a coffee, and then round out your afternoon by eating at one of the many restaurants in the complex. You can also spend some money in the casino or go dancing. And if you get bored with that, the Crown is located over the river, so have a stroll along the promenade to work off all that food!

#22 – The Shrine of Remembrance – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Melbourne

• A memorial for all the people who died in war.
• A sobering but important place to visit.

Why it’s so awesome : Not everywhere you go when you’re on holiday will be fun and amazing. It’s also important to visit the places that make you think, remember and acknowledge the sacrifices that made our current world possible. The Shrine of Remembrance was built to honor the victims of the First World War. But over time, it has become a memorial to all the Australians who died in every war. The site is beautifully lit up, and the architecture is reminiscent of Roman buildings.

What to do there : Take a moment to remember the sacrifices of the people who came before while you visit this venue. These types of memorials are important because they remind everyone of the cost of hate and fear, so spend some time remembering the pain of the past in the hope that it won’t be repeated in the future.

#23 – Chapel Street

• A fun and vibrant area where you can shop and get a great meal.
• There are a number of important buildings in the area, so make sure you have a wander and check them out.

Why it’s so awesome : This street is filled to the brim with boutiques, restaurants and entertainment areas. It’s a vibrant area where you can check out the latest fashions in clothes and food while you enjoy watching some people watching.

What to do there : While you’re in Chapel Street, make sure you do more than shop. Some of the oldest and most important buildings in the city are in this area, so take the time to explore. Have a look at the Jam Factory , the Prahran Town Hall and Prahran Market.

#24 – The Immigration Museum

• A must-see for history buffs!
• A museum that teaches you about the importance and the role of diversity in society.

Why it’s so awesome : Australia has a strange and sometimes tragic history and most people who live there came from all over the globe. You can explore this history through the Immigration Museum, which emphasizes the importance and the role of diversity and immigration in the past and in the present.

What to do there : If you want to understand more about Australia’s history then you can explore the museum on your own. The museum’s collection of resources and information is vast, so spend some time getting to know this side of this highly diversified country.

#25 – St. Paul’s Cathedral

• One of the most important landmarks in the city.
• The center of the Anglican religion in the city.
• You can visit to worship or just check out the architecture.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum is located on the corner of Flinders Street and Swanston and is one of the most important landmarks in the city. The building is an unusual yellow-brown color because it’s made from sandstone and limestone, which is highly unusual for this type of construction. It was completed in 1891 on the site where the first public Christian service was held in 1835.

What to do there : The inside and the outside of the building are well worth a look as they were designed by some of the best architects alive at the time. The building is distinctly Victorian in design, reflecting Australia’s past, and the colors and design really stand out and are different to everything else in the city. Make sure that you spend some time in the interior as well as it features rich and contrasting colors and elegant stonework.

#26 – Degraves Street

• One of the best laneway’s in Melbourne.
• If you enjoy Paris, you’ll like the Parisian feel of this street.

Why it’s so awesome : Melbourne is famous for its laneways. You can turn down one and find yourself in a completely different place, even a different country. And Degraves Street is one of the best and the most famous in the city. It connects Flinders Lane and Flinders Street and has a real Parisian feel to it, with a surfeit of cafes and laneways.

What to do there : This is a great place to have a meal, dessert or coffee. There are also some great places where you should try some wine before you explore the shops. Make sure you look around the stationary store Il Papiro and eat some gelato at Pidapipo before you go.

#27 – Lune Croissanterie

• This store represents a dream and just how good it can be when dreams come true.
• If you enjoy croissants, you’ll absolutely love them at this store.

Why it’s so awesome : This store was created by brother and sister team Kate and Cameron Reid and it’s fast become the most popular patisserie store in the city. The croissants are just about good enough to die for and the crowds inside the store and the line outside of it back that up.

What to do there: You’ll have to wait in line to get into the store, but it’s absolutely worth it. The croissants are created in a climate-controlled lab and they’re perfectly crisp and golden with layers of pastry. Make sure you try the plain croissants because they’re incredible, but take some other varieties home with you as well.

#28 – The Adelphi Hotel Pool – One of the more unique places to visit in Melbourne!

• Swimming is a fact of life in Australia, and if you’re going to do it, you might as well do it in a truly amazing pool.
• Not for the squeamish!

Why it’s so awesome : Australia is hot, which is why the locals swim every chance they get. If you need to cool off, then why not do it in the most famous pool in Melbourne? The rooftop pool at the Adelphi hotel is glass-bottomed and it actually hangs out over the street below. This means that you can watch tiny little people scurrying below while you get some exercise.

What to do there: You don’t have to stay in the hotel to use the pool, but you do have to pay an entrance fee. Just grab your towel and enjoy the view. And once you’re done, you can always try one of the hotel’s restaurant options for amazing meals and first-rate service.

#29 – The Spleen Bar – A great place to visit in Melbourne at night

• A casual bar with a great reputation for amazing comedy!
• If you’re looking to explore the lighter side of the city, you’ll find it at this bar.

Why it’s so awesome : This bar is small and unpretentious and yet it’s been operating for more than 15 years. In fact, it’s become the go-to bar for cheap drinks and snacks as well as an unbeatable Monday night comedy lineup. All the biggest acts in Australia try out their new material at this bar, so prepare for a laugh.

What to do there: If you want to see the comedy shows on Monday, arrive early so you can get a seat. The Spleen Bar isn’t large, and entrance is free, so you don’t want to miss out. Then just grab a drink and enjoy the show. The quality of the shows are consistently good and who knows, you might see a star!

#30 – Centre Place

• The home of Melbourne’s best street art.
• You’ll have lots of chances to take some great photos in this area.

Why it’s so awesome : This alley has great food, amazing shopping and some of Melbourne’s best street art as well. The art changes regularly because of the repainting schedule, so even if you’ve seen it before, it’s worth stopping by to see if there’s anything new.

What to do there : Eat, shop, and take photos of street art. Get there early if you want to explore without the crowds, but otherwise be prepared to have a lot of stranger in your pictures.

#31 – The Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Center

• An important venue that teaches visitors about Aboriginal Culture.
• Celebrate the vibrant stores and culture of Australia’s first people.

Why it’s so awesome: The Australian Aboriginal culture is vibrant and filled with stories and this museum seeks to teach some of those stories to the public. To this end, you’ll find lots of artworks, traditional performances and storytelling rituals in this museum. And you’ll walk away knowing more about this ancient culture than you did before.

What to do there: You’ll find a lot of fascinating exhibits in this area, particularly if you don’t know very much about the Aboriginal culture. Don’t miss the Deep Listening Space, where you can listen to Aboriginal people telling their cultural stories about creation and the time after it. Also, make sure you check the schedule of events while you’re there so you don’t miss any performances or exhibits.

#32 – Hamer Hall – One of the nicer places in Melbourne to sightsee!

• One of the city’s best concert halls.
• It’s also the only place in the city where you don’t have to ride in an elevator to see amazing views.

Why it’s so awesome : Hamer Hall is one of the best concert halls in the city, with lots of great shows, but the real draw is the view. You can walk up the stairs on the outside of the hall until you get to the top where you can get stunning views of the city and the riverside.

What to do there : Go there in the early evening and watch the sunset paint colors over the city. Make sure you do it on one of the days when there’s a show on at night too because this is the best place for concert music and theater performances in the city.

#33 – Readings – A great place to visit in Melbourne if you are alone/traveling solo

• An independent bookstore that’s one of the most popular places in the city at night.
• For book lovers and story lovers of all kinds.

Why it’s so awesome : A lot of bookstores have vanished recently, killed off by technology, but there are some that are going strong because they’ve learned to adapt. This bookstore has taken hold of the night crowds in Melbourne, with late night book readings that draw in audiences even at 10pm on Saturday nights.

What to do there : Make sure you go to one of the readings if there’s one on while you’re in the city but check out the store during the day as well. This bookstore has a great range, helpful staff, relaxing vibe and a strong sense of community to it, which is why it has lasted despite technological advances. And when you’re done in the bookstore, you’ll be in Lygon Street, which is one of the best areas for tourists. So check out the other stores in the area as well.

#34 – The Arts House

• The perfect place to see an innovative new show.
• The shows at this theater are experimental and cutting edge.
• You’ll pay less to see a show than you would at the bigger venues.

Why it’s so awesome : If you love the theater but don’t really have the money to see a big show then you can see something amazing at this venue. The Arts House stages cutting-edge local shows at around half the cost you’d pay anywhere else. This venue provides high-quality shows, so no matter when you go, you’ll get to see something that you’ll enjoy.

What to do there : Check the schedule of what’s on at this venue while you’re in the city. The owners of this venue like to push the margins, which is why they stage shows that are innovative and unusual. This includes theater, and dance, as well as digital, visual and live art shows. They also have art festivals throughout the year so check out what’s on while you’re there.

#35 – Hawker Chan – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Melbourne!

• Asian street food in the middle of an Australian city!
• Michelin starred food at a fraction of the normal price.

Why it’s so awesome : Australia is very close to Asia and sometimes that’s super obvious such as when this country adopts its food trends. In Singapore, street food is often served in hawker centers, with lots of stalls gathered together. And in Melbourne’s Hawker Chan, this has been adopted to Australian tastes. This location serves simple food, but it’s good enough to have people lining up around the corner for it!

What to do there: Get there early if you want to avoid the lines but be prepared to wait anyway. Try the chicken soya dish for a fraction of the price you’d find anywhere and see why this location got its Michelin stars.

#36 – Heide Museum of Modern Art

• The best modern art museum in the country.
• This venue champions Australian art of all descriptions.
• Make sure you check out the garden as well!

Why it’s so awesome : This museum was founded by John and Sunday Reed, collectors who supported the local modernist movement in the 1930s and 1940s, and it’s still going strong in this spirit. It’s filled with Australian modern artists and artwork, and it’s worth seeing just to experience the Australian creative spirit up close.

What to do there : Take some time to check out the art work first, but once you’re finished there, go out to Heide’s green sculpture park. You’ll find iron cows and an idyllic green area with metal sculptures all nestled next to the river bank. This is an awesome place to sit and relax while you enjoy the farmyard feel.

#37 – The Nicholas Building – An awesome place to visit in Melbourne for half a day!

• An art deco icon in the city.
• This old building has been turned into a hive for creative minds.

Why it’s so awesome : This is ten stories of shopping and adventure that was first built in the 1920s. You’ll find everything here from boutique retailers to art studios and tailors, all in one place. You won’t find anything ordinary to buy here, which is what makes it the perfect place to pick up some unusual items for yourself or for friends back home.

What to do there : You could spend a whole afternoon in this building just exploring the ten floors, and you probably will too. Make sure you check out RetroStar for vintage goods, Mattt for handmade satchels, and L’ucello the specialist haberdasher. You’re bound to come away with something beautiful and unusual when you visit this spot, so just keep your eyes open and go with it.

#38 – Beach Road – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Melbourne

• One of the most scenic roads in the state.
• Perfect if you want to take lots of photographs of Australia’s stunning natural scenery.
• If you love the beach, then there are plenty of chances along the road for you to indulge in that love.

Why it’s so awesome: if you love the idea of driving down winding, seaside roads but don’t have the time to do the Great Ocean Highway, then this is a great alternative. This road twists along the southeastern side of Port Phillip Bay from Brighton all the way to Mordialloc and there are amazing ocean views all the way along. The road also travels through some of Melbourne’s richest areas, so if you want to see how the wealthy live in Australia, this is the perfect place to do it.

What to do there: Take your camera, some friends and snacks and just enjoy the drive. There’s nothing quite like riding along an ocean road with the wind in your hair and your camera at the ready, so make sure you enjoy the experience. Also, take your swimmers along with you and have a dip at Half Moon Beach. It’s shaped like its name and is set at the bottom of an atmospheric, slightly intimidating scrub-covered cliff. Just be careful and remember that Australian beaches are usually rougher than what you would get overseas. So, if you aren’t a strong swimmer, stay close to the shore.

#39 – The Forum

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

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

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

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Melbourne

Which places in Melbourne can you visit today?

To find out which places are open today, check out Klook or Airbnb experiences . They offer guided tours, classes and entry tickets to some of the best attractions in Melbourne.

What can you do in Melbourne for free?

Budget backpackers especially love these free places to visit in Melbourne: – Brunswick Street – The Great Ocean Road – The Spleen Bar

Are there any places to visit in Melbourne for families?

The whole crew will love these amazing places to visit in Melbourne: – The Melbourne Museum – Lune Croissanterie – The Royal Botanic Gardens

Which are the best places to visit in Melbourne during summer?

When it’s hot outside, visit these cool places in Melbourne: – National Gallery of Victoria – The Queen Victoria Market – The Curtin House

Melbourne is the second largest city in Australia, and it’s filled with an amazing amount of diversity. This is what makes the food so great and it also affects the vibe of the city too, making it progressive, edgy and exciting! With this complete guide to the city, you’ll be able to find the best experiences in the city that suit your taste, your budget, and the amount of time you have to spend there.

Alexandria Zboyovski

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23 Spectacular Melbourne tourist attractions you can’t miss

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

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

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

The best Melbourne tourist attractions

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

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

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

Melbourne Skydeck (Eureka Skydeck)

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

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

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

Eureka 89 restaurant

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

Southern Hemisphere’s highest viewing deck!

Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006

Opening hours: Daily 12 pm – 10 pm

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

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

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

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

Address: King St, Melbourne, VIC 3000

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

Australian Sporting Museum – Melbourne sightseeing

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

Address: MCG, Brunton Ave, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 5 pm

The MCG – Tourist Attractions Melbourne

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

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

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

Address: Brunton Ave, Richmond VIC 3002

Opening hours: This will depend on your activity

Shrine of Remembrance

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

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

Address: Birdwood Ave, Melbourne VIC 3001

St Kilda Beach – Melbourne tourist spots

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

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

St Kilda Beach Little Penguin colony

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

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

Melbourne Sights – Luna Park

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

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

Address: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182

Opening hours: Daily 11 am – 10 pm

Southbank – Melbourne places to visit

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

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

National Gallery of Victoria

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

Address: 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006

The City Circle Tram

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

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

Cruise the iconic Yarra River

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

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

Take a scenic 1 hour cruise on the Yarra

With dinner and drinks

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

Queen Victoria Market – Melbourne City attractions

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

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

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

China Town Melbourne

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

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

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

Old Melbourne Gaol

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

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

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

Address: 377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening hours: Wed-Sun 10 am – 5 pm

Melbourne Museum and The Exhibition Building

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

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

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

Address: 11 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053

Opening hours: Daily 9 am – 5 pm

ArtVo – Melbourne tourist places

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

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

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

Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 6 pm

Sightseeing in Melbourne – Fitzroy Gardens

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

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

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

Federation Square – a famous place in Melbourne

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

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

Flinders Street Station – sightseeing Melbourne

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

Tour Parliament House

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

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

Melbourne Immigration Museum

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

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

Address: 400 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening hours: Daily from 10 am – 5 pm

Melbourne Zoo

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

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

Overnight camping at Melbourne Zoo in tents!

Address: Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052

Arcades and famous laneways – Melbourne sightseeing

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

Melbourne Street art – what not to miss in Melbourne

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

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

Some Melbourne street art lanes are:

• Hosier Lane

Secret galleries, hidden shops, and lane way cafés.

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

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

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

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

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

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

More best places to visit in Victoria inspiration

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

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Places to Visit in Melbourne

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Tourist Places in Melbourne

Eureka Tower Melbourne (Melbourne Skydeck)

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

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

Luna Park Melbourne

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

Top Experiences To Do in Luna Park Melbourne

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

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

Top Experiences To Do in Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Healesville Sanctuary

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

Top Experiences To Do in Healesville Sanctuary

Yarra Valley, Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

Top Experiences To Do in Yarra Valley, Melbourne

Peninsula Hot Springs

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

Top Experiences To Do in Peninsula Hot Springs

Melbourne Cricket Ground

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

Top Experiences To Do in Melbourne Cricket Ground

Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

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

Top Experiences To Do in Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

Best of Sydney

iFly Melbourne

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

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child Melbourne

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

Escape Room

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

Flinders Street Railway Station

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

St Paul's Cathedral Melbourne

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

National Gallery Of Victoria

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

Royal Botanical Gardens Melbourne

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

Federation Square

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

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Melbourne Zoo

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

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

Top Experiences To Do in Melbourne Zoo

Puffing Billy Railway

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

Top Experiences To Do in Puffing Billy Railway

St kilda beach.

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

Melbourne Museum

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

Crown Melbourne

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

Royal Exhibition Building

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

Shrine Of Remembrance

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

Old Melbourne Gaol

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

Best of Australia

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

Collins Street

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

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

South Melbourne Market

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

Enchanted Adventure

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

Maru Koala and Animal Park

The family-run Maru Koala and Animal Park is located only fifteen minutes from Phillip Island, on the Bass Highway in Grantville in southern Victoria. Revel in spending some time with the native wildlife of Australia and get an opportunity to get closer to some of them. Opt to interact with friendly animals such as Koalas, kangaroos, parrots, dingos and many others while listening to their keepers talk. Learn about their species and know about their conservation status and threats as you enter the habitat of these animals.

Brighton Beach

Take time out from the hustle and bustle of the city and head towards Brighton Beach, a picturesque beach in Melbourne. An ideal place for unwinding, Brighton Beach is located between Hampton and Elwood. It also comprises three beaches - Upper Brighton, Middle Brighton Beach and Dendy Street Beach. While Upper and Middle Brighton have piers and sea baths, Dendy Street Beach is popular for its colourful beach huts.

Top Experiences To Do in Brighton Beach

Gog and Magog

Gog and Magog, a striking geological formation situated within the Grampians National Park in Victoria, Australia, stands as a testament to the ancient forces of nature. These imposing sandstone pillars, towering high above the surrounding landscape, evoke a sense of awe and wonder in all who behold them.

Best of Gold Coast

Renowned as Melbourne’s most photographed beach, Brighton Beach is a must-visit. Located in Port Phillip Bay, the prominent highlight of the beach is its 82 vibrant bathing boxes set in the backdrop of Melbourne’s stunning skyline. With calm bay waters and a sandy beach, Brighton Beach is an ideal spot for a family picnic and a popular destination for swimmers and surfers.

People Also Ask About Melbourne

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

How many days are enough to explore Melbourne?

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Things To Do In Melbourne

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• Filter (56)
• Sightseeing (7)
• Things To Do (6)
• Shopping Market (4)
• Monument (3)

1. National Gallery of Victoria

1 km from city center 1 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The National Gallery of Victoria, or NGV, is located in Melbourne, Australia. Founded in 1861, it is the oldest museum in the country and archives an abundance of heritage showcased through its magnificent collection of over 70,000 exemplary art compositions! The collection bears witness to the various ideas, styles, and disciplines of art across centuries and cultures in the country.

2. Royal Botanic Gardens

2 km from city center 2 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Royal Botanic Garden in Melbourne is home to over 50,000 plants like camellias, rainforest flora, succulents, cacti, Californian species, herbs, plants from Southern China, and many more species. Catch sight of the Guilfoyle’s Volcano and Melbourne Observatory. Visit the Terrace or Jardin Tan cafe to relish delicacies and the Gardens shop to pick botanical souvenirs. Lakes and natural wildlife complete the natural aesthetic of the garden.

3. Melbourne Cricket Ground

2 km from city center 3 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Built in the mid-19th century, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, or simply the MCG, is the Australian Cricket Team's primary and largest home stadium. It is a world-renowned stadium with world-class facilities and has borne witness to some of the best cricket matches in the world. The first test match in the sport's history was played here in 1877. It has seen many renovations and upgrades, always keeping up with international cricket standards.

4. Queen Victoria Market

1 km from city center 4 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Queen Victoria Market, carrying its 140+ years of legacy, is situated in Melbourne. It serves as a one-stop destination for fresh veggies, clothes, snacks, beverages, souvenirs, hand-made products, imported finds, and awakening coffee to taste! Stretching across two city blocks, the market is home to 600 small businesses and is a significant landmark of the central business district of Melbourne, serving as a retail and wholesale hub since the late 1860s.

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Mesmerising australia holiday tour, amazing tour of australia in 10 nights, wondrous australia family tour package, australia extravaganza tour package, melbourne holiday tour with great ocean road, 5. melbourne zoo.

3 km from city center 5 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Within the Royal National Park in Parkville is situated the Melbourne Zoo or the Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens. Home to over 320 species of wildlife, visitors can spot Tigers wandering, Monkeys swinging, Orangutans, the Trail of Elephants, Wombats, Asian pachyderms, African Zebras, and Savanna Giraffes. One can also witness marine life creatures like Penguins and fur seals and also closely interact with Australian Koalas and Kangaroos in their natural habitat.

6. Shrine of Remembrance

2 km from city center 6 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Shrine of Remembrance is the National War Memorial of Victoria and a landmark of Melbourne. Originally dedicated to the bravery of the servicemen of Victoria in World War I, it is currently a tribute to all the brave Australians who served in the war for the country and is among Australia’s largest war memorials.

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7. Flinders Street Station

1 km from city center 7 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Flinders Street Station is the central railway station of Melbourne and an icon of the city’s culture and history. Designed in the historical Art Nouveau style in 1910, it is Australia’s oldest and busiest railway station. Once the busiest station in the world, today, it attracts over 90,000 daily commuters and large crowds of tourists who come to admire its iconic green copper dome and beautiful facade.

8. Eureka Tower

1 km from city center 8 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Eureka Tower, at a staggering height of almost 300 metres tall, was once the tallest structure in Melbourne, Australia. Opened in 2006, it is a residential highrise that is quite popular for its viewpoint, the Skydeck 88. From Skydeck 88, panoramic views of the city skyline can be viewed far out into the distance. In addition, a popular event called the Eureka Climb, which started in 2012, is held annually to see who can climb the tower fastest to the top level.

9. Day Trip to Yarra Valley

1 km from city center 9 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

A 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley offers more than a scenic view. Immerse yourself in the indigenous restaurants and wine tasting from over 70 wineries, waterfalls, and gardens. Watch the sunrise on the Hot air balloon, stop at local markets and gourmet stalls, taste their Yarra Valley Dairy Cheese and chocolate, visit the Four Pillars distillery, Ice Creamery Factory, and Healesville Sanctuary, home to over 200 species of wildlife, interact with Koalas and kangaroos.

10. Drive on the Great Ocean Road

10 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Along the southwest coast of Victoria lies the Great Ocean Road Drive. Stretching 243 kilometres along Australia's southeastern coast, it is widely believed to be one of the most scenic and beautiful drives in the country. On this drive, one can witness the 12 Apostles, Apollo Bay, waterfalls, ancient lighthouses, tree-top adventures, wildlife wonders, and beaches. Wildlife sightings such as Koalas, Kangaroos, and even whales over the shores are quite common as well.

11. Dandenong Ranges

0 km from city center 11 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

East of Melbourne City, the Dandenong Ranges are low mountain ranges covered by an enchanting spread of lush green forests, lovely little villages and awe-inspiring beauty. These mountain ranges are a famous tourist trip out of the city - whether as a day trip or over an entire weekend. Witness spectacular views from the summit of Mt. Dandenong, take a trip on the Puffing Billy, or indulge in the delectable traditional food of the ranges. Explore the many attractions, such as the 1000 Steps or the Kokoda Walk, or visit the Dandenong National Park and gain a new perspective on flora and fauna of the region.

12. Explore Flinders Lane

0 km from city center 12 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located in Melbourne, Flinders Lane is a hotspot for world-renowned fine dining, galleries, and fashion labels. Grill Americano, Supernormal, Coda, Tippy Tay, and Kenzan are popular eateries around the area. Visit the nearby Degraves street for cafes, bars, coffee, and garment boutiques. Anna Schwartz Gallery and Flinders Lane Gallery hold exhibitions. Umpteen handicrafts, jewellery, and homeware authentic to the Victorian era are available here. Do not miss visiting historic buildings like Murray and Chapter House.

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13. Melbourne City Centre

1 km from city center 13 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Melbourne City Centre is where the city's foundation was laid back in 1835. Today it is one of the busiest commercial areas of the city, filled with shops, boutiques, restaurants, theatres and even sports stadiums. The city centre is also known as the central business district or the CBD of Melbourne.

14. Sea Life Aquarium

1 km from city center 14 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Home to over 500 species of aquatic animals, the Sea life Melbourne aquarium is located in central Melbourne. The majestic king, gentoo penguins, and the world's largest crocodile are some of the aquarium's main attractions. Experience dining under the massive oceanarium among stingrays, sharks, and many multi-coloured fishes. 4D aquatic cinema shows, hands-on wave touch pools, feeding shows, and other programs help visitors virtually interact with marine life as well.

15. Royal Exhibition Building

1 km from city center 15 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Built in 1880, the Royal Exhibition Building is a UNESCO World Heritage Sight and was the first building in Australia to get this status. Its magnificent architecture and imposing size make it a popular tourist attraction. It is one of the only remaining exhibition buildings in the world and was built during the wave of the international exhibition movement to host the Melbourne International Exhibition of 1881. Today, the stunning building serves as the prime location in Melbourne to host all sorts of shows, exhibitions and events.

16. Scienceworks

6 km from city center 16 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Another wing of the Museum Victoria, Scienceworks is a famous science museum in Australia that aims to impart scientific knowledge and awareness in a fun manner. Opened in 1992, the museum offers exhibits, tours and demonstrations that are enjoyable for adults and children alike, ensuring an interactive and fruitful experience. Some popular exhibitions include the steam engines and the 'lighting room', where a lighting bolt as long as 3 metres is synthetically produced.

17. Healesville Sanctuary

52 km from city center 17 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Nestled in the Yarra Valley near Melbourne, Healesville Sanctuary is a bushland haven for different species of Australian native animals and birds. It is a part of Zoos Victoria and is spread over an area of 30 hectares. The sanctuary is one of the two places across the globe that has successfully bred a Platypus. Wander through the tranquil trails and get a glimpse of the wildlife in the exhibits.

18. Explore Degraves Street

2 km from city center 18 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Situated in the Central Business District in Melbourne, Degraves street is a pedestrian walkway known for its sit-out cafes and eateries. This narrow laneway houses restaurants, cafes, breweries, garments and fashion outlets, sweet treats, victorian-hand-made gifts, jewellery, and much more around every corner. The Flinders Street Station is easily accessible from here. One can expect to find it packed with crowds throughout the week.

19. Shop at South Melbourne Market

2 km from city center 19 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Popularly known as the ‘local village market’, the South Melbourne Market, located in Melbourne, Victoria, is famous for its coffee, cafes, and restaurants serving food from locally procured ingredients. The highlight of this market is the four-day Moomba festival held annually. Merchandise like local handicrafts, homeware, garments, books, and fashion equipment are also available. In addition, live concerts, exhibitions, and offerings display support for their rich heritage.

20. Organ Pipes National Park

23 km from city center 20 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Situated in the central region of Victoria, The Organ Pipes National Park is famous for its geological location and the Organ Pipes hanging off a cliff. The Rosette Rock, Keilor Plains, and Tessellated Pavement, with fossils dating back to 4 million years, are notable attractions of the park. Native plants and rich wildlife with animals like Kangaroos, Echidnas, and Platypus are sited here. Trails are tailored to show around corners of the park. Camping, fishing, hiking, and picnicking are everyday activities one can try their hand at while visiting the park.

21. Abbotsford Convent

3 km from city center 21 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Abbotsford Convent is located in Abbotsford, Victoria. It is a preserve of Culture, Learning, and Creativity, a space, home to over 100 art studios, galleries, eateries and cafes, radio stations, a school, open-air cinema, all surrounded by greenery. St. Heliers Street Gallery, an artistically rich space, is a ‘must-visit’. The Convent has educational and social history tours, mysteries podcasts, exhibitions, markets, festivals, private and corporate events, workshops, and performances to celebrate community enrichment.

22. Astor Theatre

6 km from city center 22 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Astor Theatre in St Kilda, Australia, provides a grand cinematic experience, running old classics, cult favourites, and select new releases via a single-screen in a not-so ‘old-fashioned’ auditorium. The space is equipped with the Barco 4K Digital Projector and a hi-fi audio system elevating the quality of audio and visuals. Their seats lack comfort due to heritage protection, exhibiting ancient Victorian vibes. The nearby train station and restaurants attract customers due to the easy access. Stalls are available, serving snacks and beverages.

23. Heide Museum of Modern Art

12 km from city center 23 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Heide Museum of Modern Art is situated in Bulleen, a suburb of Melbourne. It houses modern and contemporary art. The pleasant garden at Heide serves as a great picnic spot for visitors, and the sculpture park is also one other major attraction within the museum. Exhibitions are held with the Heide Market showcasing works of artistry expertise and handcrafted goods. Learning opportunities are offered too. The cafe Heide serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch made from seasonal produce grown in-house in the kitchen garden.

24. Fitzroy Gardens

2 km from city center 24 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Situated in East Melbourne, Fitzroy Gardens is home to a wide array of Flora, historical buildings, and sculptures. Sites of Heritage and Tourist Attractions include the Captain Cook’s Cottage, Carved Fairies Tree, the Scarred Tree, Myriad Fountains, Statues, Model Tudor Village, Band Pavillion, Sinclair’s Cottage, and the Rotunda. In addition, scenic water elements are distributed throughout the garden that visitors can spot while on a leisurely stroll.

25. Enjoy a Concert at Hamer Hall

22 km from city center 25 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Hamer Hall, formerly the Melbourne Concert Hall, is Melbourne's top location for orchestra and chamber music. Concerts including jazz, rock, pop, multicultural, chamber, classical, cabaret, and contemporary music with an Assistive Hearing System are held in Hamer Hall's space of 2500 seats throughout the year. In addition, companies like the Australian Ballet, Opera Australia, and Melbourne Theatre organize regular events and performances at the Hall.

26. State Theatre

10 km from city center 26 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The State Theatre, located in Melbourne, is part of the Arts Centre Melbourne. The underground space is ideally used for artists showcasing their talents in the form of theatre performances, dancing, and musical talents, specifically Ballet and Opera. The Theatre is equipped with Assistive Hearing System enriching every execution ever! Opera Australia and Australian Ballet host varied events and acts regularly. Do not forget to notice the 75,000 tiny brass cups adorning the ceiling of this gigantic setting.

27. Day Out at St Kilda

6 km from city center 27 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Known as the beachside playground, St Kilda is an inner suburb in Melbourne. Visitor attractions like Luna Park, Catani Gardens, and Acland street. Visitors can cycle along the shores of the Phillip port, walk through the sandy beach, and enjoy the outdoor pubs, cafes, multi-cuisine restaurants, and breweries on Fitzroy street. It houses Melbourne’s famous St Kilda beach, the Astor, and St Kilda Breakwater, where penguins can be spotted. Catch a show, go shopping or just relax at St Kilda, one destination for all leisure.

28. Lune Croissanterie

28 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located in Melbourne, and Fitzroy, Lune Croissanterie is famous for its artisanal confectionery and natural ingredients used in its composition. Their Croissants were declared as ‘finest’ in the world by The New York Times. Other specialities on the menu include sweet treats like Kouign-amann, pain au chocolat, doughnuts, cakes, and a good brew. The pâtisserie introduces monthly specials as well. Be sure to experience their Lune Lab, a fine dining experience authentic to the taste of the Lunes.

29. Sidney Myer Music Bowl

18 km from city center 29 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Amidst the Kings Domain Gardens in Melbourne, Sidney Myer Music Bowl is a famous summertime location, famous for Carols by Candlelight and Melbourne Symphony Orchestra., their annual event. In addition, it hosts yearlong live concerts, symphony performances, theatre, and more. The music hub has seen some world-renowned artists like Paul McCartney, Neil Diamond, Metallica, Florence, and The Seekers. It was nominated for the Best Venue Award at the Music Victoria Awards in 2021.

30. Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

29 km from city center 30 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens is located in the Sherbrooke settlement, Victoria, Australia. It is known for its water elements and extensive and seasonally changing flora like orchids, azaleas, ferns, maple leaves, rhododendrons, and camellias, all adorning the trails of the garden. Lakes, picnic spots, curated trails, and boathouses at the venue magnify the individual experience. Cafes and food joints serve delicious food whilst you admire nature.

31. Whisky Tasting at Starward Distillery

0 km from city center 31 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located in Melbourne, Starward Distillery is dignified as the whisky haven of Australia. Made from high-quality secret ingredients and aged in red wine barrels, the authentic Australian whisky made here has a unique, lighter, and fruitier taste. The venue exhibits sophisticated visitor facilities that include a bar and food joints. Distillery tours and cocktail-tasting menus add to the wholesome experience.

32. Bellarine Peninsula

42 km from city center 32 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located southwest of Melbourne, Victoria, Bellarine Peninsula offers tourists beaches, vineries, authentic village markets, breweries, museums, water sports, and exposure to fine dining! You can opt for curated tours, like the Seal and Dolphin swim, Balloon Flights in Geelong, Fort Queenscliff, and Local Wildlife sightseeing. Hit the beach at Barwon Head, look out for Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, and consume the traditions at Narana Cultural Centre.

33. The Toff in Town

39 km from city center 33 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Toff is situated in Curtin House, Melbourne offering fine dining with a musical ambience every evening. Their private train-carriage theme is famous to book for a relaxed evening with friends while they serve you exceptional Thai food. The venue has an extensive food and drinks menu, brought to your booth! Also hosted are late-night parties with gigs, DJ nights, comical performances, and cabaret acts.

34. Luxury Shopping at Block Arcade

101 km from city center 34 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Situated in the centre of Melbourne’s CBD, Block arcade is a luxury shopping arcade with branded fashion outlets, cafes, bakeries, vintage jewellery, gift stores, and art. It is home to the original Hopetoun Tea Rooms and renowned traders like Basement Discs, Sol Alpaca, and Haigh’s Chocolates, Australia’s premium chocolatiers! Private functions are held at the venue, and a guided tour twice every week showing around the luxury food outlets and artisan cafes, explaining the rich history behind the 100-year-old building.

35. Street Art at Centre Place

0 km from city center 35 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Centre Place is located between Collins Street and Flinders Lane in Melbourne. The laneway is lined with shopping outlets, food corners, boutiques, and coffee shops. Notice the varying, colour-splashed Street Art and innovative Graffiti painting on the walls of this street. The stencil work and details are elaborately themed, almost professional looking. Visit Jungle Juice for international coffee, Aix for crepes, dumplings at ShanDong MaMa Mini, and Hell’s Kitchen to chug a cold beer.

36. Skiing at Lake Mountain Alpine Resort

85 km from city center 36 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

A two-hour drive from Melbourne, Lake Mountain Alpine Resort offers fun activities like mountain biking, skiing, tobogganing and snow play, and snowshoeing. The kid-friendly toboggans are family-recommended, and the best time for this is between early June and late September. Village Run, Koala Creek, and Leadbeaters are the three major slopes for tobogganing. Other popular nearby places include Healesville sanctuary, phantom falls, and lake mountain Bristo, which serve locally seasoned food.

37. Kayak Along the Yarra River

26 km from city center 37 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Yarra river is one of Melbourne’s significant waterways. Kayak along the river to come across tourist attractions like the royal Botanical Gardens, Australian Tennis Open, Herring Island Park, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Eureka Tower, Bolt Bridge, and Crown Casino. Wearing old joggers or feather-light garments and carrying your own essentials kit is advised. Dry bags, kayaks, and life jackets will be provided at the departure spot.

38. Mount Hotham

38 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

A 4.5-hour drive from Melbourne, Mt Hotham, Australia’s alpine village, is famous for its breathtaking views of mountain ranges and skiing for experienced and beginners. It houses a few of the best resorts, like Chalet Hotham, Mountain Dreaming, and Gotcha Chalet. Other popular activities include husky sled dog tours, helicopter rides over the mountain, spa retreats, snowmobile rides, cross-country skiing, and much more. The best time to visit Mt Hotham is between July and August, when it receives most of the snowfall.

39. Day Trip to Mornington Peninsula

46 km from city center 39 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

An hour's drive from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is home to some fine vineyards, beaches, national parks, and meals made from local produce. Some leisure activities visitors can engage in include peninsula hot springs, dolphin and seal swim tours, hiking, sightseeing, and ferry rides. Do not miss Arthur's seat, the highest viewpoint of the peninsula, Pt Leo Estate, the sculpture garden, London Bridge, and Digger's Club, Australia's largest organic garden.

40. Hawker Chan

56 km from city center 40 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located at 157 Lonsdale St Melbourne, Hawker Chan is famous for its Michelin-starred food from Singapore. Globally known for being the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant, it offers over 20 dishes, with its bestseller being the soy sauce chicken noodles. The secret ingredient is their soya sauce marinade and a budget starting at only $6.80. Other popular dishes include soya chicken rice and pork ribbed rice.

41. Butchers Diner

28 km from city center 41 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Advertising premium Australian meat, butcher's diner is a dine-in and takeaway joint located in Melbourne's central business district. Prepared in-house, the meat is juicy, smoked, and tender and paired with fresh buns and veggies. Other popular dishes include blood sausage, sesame-spiked Japanese fried rice, devilled egg rolls, steak sandwiches, and the classic cheeseburger. Spanish doughnut dunked in chocolate sauce is the go-to dessert for all the customers to end their night.

42. Melbourne International Comedy Festival

42 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival stretches for three to four weeks annually, between March and April. It hosts the absolute supremacy of comedy talents, plays, workshops, debates, theatre, music shows, and exhibitions in Australia. Flagship events include Australia’s largest open mic comedy competitions, RAW, Roadshow, Class clowns where high school students compete, and Deadly Funny, unique to celebrating indigenous Australian humour. In addition, exquisite Food and Drinks are served to elevate the individual experience.

43. Hot Air Balloon Ride in Melbourne

43 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Hot Air Ballon Ride is a lifetime experience, flying high to get a bird’s view of the city and a scenic view. These Balloon Rides are arranged at different locations with one meal included. Queensland is famous for its floating-in-air and highest ride counts. They last for an average of one hour. In addition, customised packages like Sunrise Ballooning at Alice Springs, Yarra Valley Balloon Flight at Sunrise, Balloon flights at Geelong, and Hot air balloon tours in Brisbane are available throughout the year.

44. Ride a Tram

44 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Tram is a public transport in Australia under the Yarra Trams. At designated stops, timings of arrival and departure, destination, number, and routes to trams are mentioned so you can easily access them. Travelling within the CBD and Docklands using a tram is free. In addition, Melbourne’s burgundy and City Circle Tram offers a free tour of attractions and commentary at places of interest.

45. Experience the Aurora Australis

45 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Australian version of the Northern lights is Aurora Australis. The further down south, the better its chances of visibility, preferably if you’re in Tasmania. Within Melbourne, Rickett’s Point in Beaumaris, coasts close to Port Phillip, Werribee South, and Point Cook hold high chances of spotting the light. Other locations in Victoria include Point Lonsdale, Cape Schanck, Flinders, and Anglesea. Winter season, May to August or around the equinox, is the best time to spot this mesmerizing natural phenomenon.

46. Sip Some Magic Coffee

46 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia's Coffee Capital, has breweries and cafes in every laneway. However, their famous 'Magic Coffee' is a secret from the rest of the world and Australia itself! It's a Melbournian 'thing' that you rarely spot on any menu. Double Rissetto topped with steamed milk, served in a regular 160ml or 5oz sized cup, is what the coffee constitutes. 'The Auction Rooms' at 107 Errol street in North Melbourne is an excellent place to try the signature coffee of the city.

47. Watch the Australian Open

47 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Australian Open, or the ‘Happy Slam’, is a Tennis Tournament annually held in January at Melbourne Park. The venue sees massive crowding during the season from across the globe. It is the first of the four Grand Slam Tours every year. The tournament hosts singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and junior championships for both men and women, with exhibition events parallelly. High-profile names like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Pete Sampras face off here.

48. Watch the New Year's Fireworks

48 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

New Year’s and New Year’s Eve is a grand time to visit Melbourne. They welcome the occasion with colourful fireworks across the sky arranged at wide locations. Visit the waterfront, Yarra Park, Southbank, or Federation square for a better sight of them. Pubs organize performances, DJ nights, and feasts for outdoor celebrations. The city is decorated, and Rooftop lounges are packed. The H2O Event on New Year’s Eve is their best voted to kickstart celebrations.

49. Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre

49 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Bonjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre is situated at Melbourne Museum, Australia. Through the many exhibitions showcasing artefacts, storytelling, and events held, it is a hotspot for Art, Culture, History, and Heritage lovers! Visit the Birrarung Gallery and First peoples, their art space for exhibitions, Milarri Garden Trails, home to flora from the native era, and Kalaya, for performances celebrating the roots of the native Victorians.

50. Drinking History Tour in Melbourne

72 km from city center 50 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

An experiential tour, experiencing the undercover settings of Melbourne with their historical context and visiting bars while exploring the nightlife. These tours last for three hours, inspecting three bars in the city or Fitzroy, spending an average of 35-40 minutes at each stop. Drinks are included, one per bar. The idea is to discover the overlooked attractions of the city and socialize. The tour is not available for individuals under 18.

51. Stay at Adelphi Hotel

22 km from city center 51 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

Located at 187 flinders lane Melbourne, Adelphi hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel famous for its rooftop swimming pool. The exemplary cantilevered glass bottom pool hangs from the ninth story giving the guests an extraordinary swimming experience and an overview of Flinders lane. The hotel’s kitchen Om Nom has an extensive menu offering varied cuisines with its own dessert bar.

52. Nicholas Building

38 km from city center 52 out of 56 Things To Do in Melbourne

The Nicholas Building is located at the intersection of Swanston Street and Flinders Lane, Melbourne. The building is home to shoemakers, milliners, artists, jewellers, architects, and the famous cathedral cafe. In addition, art studios, business offices, galleries, bookstores, Patch Attack, Pasteup, Retro Fashion labels, Sticky Institue for craft supplies, and Brendan Dwyer for leather footwear are notable outlets inside the heritage building.

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10 best places to visit in melbourne.

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Are you also a wanderer who loves exploring new places, capturing mesmerizing sunsets and ticking off your bucket list? Well, in that case, you have landed in just the right spot! It’s time to explore Melbourne, Australia and get flabbergasted by the beauty, serenity and top Melbourne tourist places. 

If not already, then it’s time to add Melbourne to your bucket list, and also tick it off. Whether you are a student or a tourist in Australia , you should not miss some of the most beautiful places to visit in Melbourne. So, let’s begin exploring the main attractions in Melbourne, and fill your camera roll with the two beauties – you & Melbourne. 

List of places to visit in Melbourne

Queen victoria market .

• Location: Queen and Victoria Streets, Melbourne 
• Timing: 6 am to 3 pm 
• Entry Fee: Free 

This street is one of the most happening and alive places in Australia. Here, you can find hundreds of locals and tourists, who come especially to shop for the rarest of rare goods. This heritage market from 1878 is located in one of the best Melbourne tourist area. The market is known for selling fresh goods and having the rarest of rare souvenirs. And for all food lovers, visit the Queen Victoria Market to be a part of the mouthwatering grand food hall. This is perhaps one of the best free places to visit in Melbourne. 

Melbourne Zoo 

• Location: Elliott Ave, Parkville  
• Timing: 9 am to 5 pm everyday  
• Entry Fee: Start from $31 

You may think that why is a zoo in the list of best tourist places in Melbourne. The truth is this is no ordinary zoo. This zoo hosts an Orangutan sanctuary, where the animals are kept safely in their treetops. Along with this, you can also enjoy several ‘roar and snore’ wild encounters, music and twilight concerts, and more. The famous trail of elephant, frog shows, and other such events make this zoo one of the most entertaining zoos in the world. 

Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building 

• Location: 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton  
• Timing: 10 am to 5 pm  
• Entry Fee: Start from $14 

The list of best places to visit in Melbourne is incomplete without this aesthetic museum and Royal exhibition building. While taking a tram ride through the city of Melbourne, you can witness the aboriginal center, Blue Box Cube and Bunjilaka. The gorgeous gardens with blossoming colorful flowers will leave you in awe, and you won’t be able to help but capture this beauty forever. A fun fact about this building is that in 1901, it hosted the first ever Commonwealth parliament. 

Penguin Parade 

• Location: Koala Conservation Centre, 1810 Phillip Island Road, Phillip Island, Victoria 3923  
• Timing: 10 am to 5 pm daily  
• Entry Fee: Start from $85 

We all visit beaches often, take a swim, eat our snacks or watch the sunset. But something different and worth watching show takes place in Melbourne when the sun sets beautifully on the beaches. Here, you will see hundreds of Penguins walking across the sandy beaches. It is a must-watch show, as these cute creatures definitely leave everyone in awe with their adorable walk. To witness this cuteness, it is best to book your tickets with an agency. 

Royal Botanic Gardens 

• Location: Birdwood Ave, South Yarra  
• Timing: From 7:30 am till the end of the day  

If you are also someone who loves green and peaceful areas, then this Botanic Garden may be the ideal place for you. This is the perfect place for friends and family to have a nice time, have a picnic and cherish the beautiful weather. In these 40 hectares of land, there are about half a million plants, that makes about 1.5 million tourists visit the garden every year. This is not just it. For the next gen gardeners, horticulture courses are also delivered here. 

Eureka Tower 

• Location: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank 
• Timing: 24 hour
• Entry Fee: Start from $11

If you are a fan of heights, lights and a breathtaking view, then Eureka Tower should be your first destination. In the entire southern hemisphere, this tower provides tourists with the highest view. This 91 storied building with a panorama view is one of the best Melbourne city attractions. And if you still need a reason to visit this tower, then discover The Edge, which is a glass cube that extends 3 meters from the building.  

South Bank and Arts Centre 

• Location: St. Kilda Road, Melbourne  
• Timing: Depends on shows & events  
• Entry Fee: Depends on shows & events 

If you are looking for some of the best visiting places Melbourne, then this entertainment arena is your one-stop destination. Situated at the bank of Yarra, this art Centre is just walking distance from Finder streets. The Centre has outdoor and indoor cafes, live concerts and even stand-up comedy shows. The Centre also houses some of the most famous shows, such as Fairfax Theatre. The Hammar Hall hosts the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.  

Captain Cook’s Cottage 

• Location: Wellington Parade, East Melbourne 
• Timing : 9 am to 5 pm  
• Entry Fee: Start from $6 

Are you interested in the history of adventures, seafaring and explorations? Captain Cook’s cottage in Yorkshire, England was brought to Fitzroy Gardens. This cottage provides complete solitude and peace and will take you back to Australian explorations of Cook. Surrounded with trees, plants and fresh air, this is the perfect place to enjoy your own company. 

Dandenong Ranges 

• Location: 1 hour outside Melbourne, Victoria  
• Timing: 9 am to 5 pm for train ride
• Entry Fee: Free  

This one is for all nature lovers, adventure seekers and history enthusiasts. A place full of dense forests, walking treks, waterfalls, and secret gems, the Dandenong Ranges have small towns that are covered with box-like shops. One of the world’s famous railways, the Puffing Billy train ride is an experience you must have. The serenity and refreshing winds are perfect for anyone who is looking for a peaceful break or adventure. 

Melbourne Cricket Ground 

• Location: Brunton Ave, East Melbourne  
• Timing: Everyday  
• Entry Fee: Start from $70 

Oh, there is just so much about this famous Melbourne Cricket Ground. The main stadium of Olympics 1965, birthplace of test cricket, and home of Australian Football, this ground is famous all over the world. With a capacity of 1,00,000, the ground dates to 1853. You can register yourself for a 75-minute journey down memory lane. In summers, cricket matches and in winters, football matches take place here. Moreover, you can also book tennis courts in the stadium.  

Also Read:- Best Places To Live In Melbourne , Top 5 Universities In Melbourne 2024

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55 Fun Things to Do in Melbourne At Night to Uncover Hidden Gems and Popular Hotspots

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Melbourne is a buzzing cosmopolitan city that still exudes the charm of a close-knit community. As a city that is know to experience “four seasons in one day”, it is always a wise idea to have a selection of indoor and outdoor activities on your list of things to do in Melbourne at night .

Victoria’s state capital is full of fun and interesting activities and attractions. You’ll certainly be spoiled for choice when making plans for a night out.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Melbourne tours

1 – Focus your sights on the city from the Melbourne Skydeck

See the city from above, and experience the sparkling city lights on a visit to the  Melbourne Skydeck at night. With a height of almost 300 meters, the Skydeck is the southern hemisphere’s highest observation deck and is open daily until 9:30 PM in the summer months and 8:30 PM during the winter.

This attraction is a popular spot for romantic proposals and offers dining experiences, virtual reality and 6-D theatre activities and an observation deck bar.

• Melbourne Skydeck tickets

Read more: Best Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

2 – Surround yourself with culture at National Gallery of Victoria’s NGV Friday Nights

This National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) encompasses two buildings and is the oldest and most visited gallery in Australia. A recent addition to the NGV is the The Fox, the new home for NGV’s contemporary   art and design works. NGV Friday Nights are a gallery highlight.

These sell-out evening events combine music, dining and the works of featured artists. With over 76,000 works on display, the gallery is a veritable cultural treasure chest.

• NGV Friday Nights tickets

3 – Appreciate the glow of a candlelight concert

Candlelight concerts take place in more than 100 cities worldwide. In Melbourne, you can enjoy modern and classical favourites at diverse venues including Sea Life Aquarium, the Athenaeum Theater, Fitzroy Town Hall, and Collingwood Town Hall.

If you choose an evening of Tchaikovsky, you will also be treated to a ballet performance – it is definitely one of the best things to do in Melbourne .

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4 – Attend a sports event at the magnificent Marvel Stadium

Having hosted over 42 million fans since its opening in 2000,  Marvel Stadium has seen some of the world’s biggest entertainment stars and sporting events staged there.

This technologically advanced stadium has variable seating configuration, a retractable roof to accommodate most weather conditions and a special stadium sensory room to be as inclusive as possible to those with sensory sensitivities.

5 – Sample the produce at The Night Market at Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market has been serving Melbourne residents with fresh produce and other wares for over 140 years. The market stretches over a city block and can be enjoyed five days a week. Queen Victoria Market tours are led by local Market guides and ensure you discover the best produce while learning about the market’s history.

The Night Market is hosted on Wednesdays from mid-April to mid-May adding, for a short while, another fun thing to do at night in Melbourne.

6 – Show yourself a good time at Palais Theatre

The classically restored Palais Theatre is the home of Melbourne’s Live Theatre. Since its inception in 1914, the venue has operated as a dance hall, cinema, ballet stage and live entertainment venue.

Today, the theatre hosts top local and international artists and offers a premium lounge and Winter Garden experience for patrons looking to add an extra layer of pizazz to their night out.

7 – Take a chance at Crown Melbourne Casino

If you enjoy a game of chance, or consider yourself lucky, you can head to the Crown Melbourne where the hotel and spa, restaurants, and casino offer a world-class entertainment and dining experience.

The venue offers an array of gaming and entertainment activities and the casino operates 24 hours a day with the exception of Christmas Day, Good Friday and ANZAC Day when they close from 4 AM to 12 PM.

8 – Admire the grace and precision of The Australian Ballet

The Australian Ballet is the country’s national ballet company and has exisited since 1962. Each year, the talented dancers entertain audiences throughout the country with their bold, athletic and graceful style.

The company are based in Melbourne where their premises also accommodate the Australian Ballet School. In the city, you can attend one of the season’s performances at venues such as Arts Centre Melbourne and the State Theatre.

In 2024, performances will take place at the Regent Theater while the State Theater undergoes renovations.

9 – All aboard for an indulgent dinner cruise

Set sail on a dinner cruise along Melbourne’s picturesque Yarra River. Indulging in delicious cuisine while enjoying stunning views of the city skyline and iconic landmarks, creating a romantic and unforgettable dining experience under the stars.

On a 3-hour cruise, you will see the city light up as you cruise past attractions like the Royal Botanic Gardens and Federation Square.

• dinner cruises in Melbourne

10 – Engage your sense with the sublimne strains of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

Whether you are new to the joy of classical music, or a seasoned aficionado, be enchanted by the melodic performances of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO). The MSO is Australia’s preeminent orchestra and one of Victoria’s cultural cornerstones.

With performances at the prestigious Hamer Hall, the symphony’s rich sound reverberates through the elegant auditorium, captivating audiences with each note.

11 – Attend an historic theater performance

Immerse yourself in history and culture with a visit to Melbourne’s historic theaters like Her Majesty’s Theatre which dates back to the 1880’s.

The lavish Regent Theatre, the iconic Princess Theatre, and The Forum, where the ornate interiors and grand stages transport you to another era of theatrical splendor are all among the earliest sites of stage entertainment that still endure today.

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12 – Visit the vibrant Docklands

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Docklands at night, where the glittering lights of the city reflect off the tranquil waters, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for dining and leisurely strolls along the promenade.

This inner-city entertainment district offers over 30 dining options, 15 unique experiences and a variety of international brand shopping. The district is pet friendly, has undercover walkways for all weather conditions, and hosts an artisanal Sunday Makers Market.

13 – Reach great heights with a gourmet dinner in the sky

Elevate your dining experience with dinner in the sky , where you’ll enjoy gourmet cuisine suspended high above the city, offering breath-taking views of Melbourne’s skyline and landmarks as you dine in the clouds.

You and your party of diners will be spoiled with an unforgettable dining experience up to 50 meters in the air.

14 – Game night vibes at Melbourne Cricket Ground

Experience the thrill of Melbourne Cricket Ground with guided tours that take you behind the scenes of Australia’s most iconic sporting venue, showcasing its rich history and legendary moments, including access to exclusive areas and interactive exhibits.

While on tour you’ll experience panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline from the fourth level of the Ponsford Stand.

• Melbourne Cricket Ground tours

15 – Evoke a sense of nostalgia at The Astor and The Lido Historic cinemas

Step back in time at historic cinemas like The Astor Theatre and The Lido , where the vintage décor and evokes a sense of nostalgia and cinematic charm, transporting you to the golden age of cinema.

There is nothing dates about the cinematic experience, however, with state-of-the-art projection and sound systems providing patrons with an excellent viewing experience.

16 – Re-energize and relax at Melbourne’s best rooftop bars

Take in panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline from the city’s best rooftop bars. Rooftop Bar at Curtin House is especially popular on warm and sunny days and Lui Bar at Rialto Towers combine innovation and luxury with sweeping Phillip Bay and city views.

The Eureka Skydeck 88 is located on the Melbourne Skydeck, while Her Rooftop serves cocktail-centric drinks and tasty Thai cuisine. Sip on cocktails under the stars in venues with an unforgettable ambiance perched high above the bustling streets below.

17 – Immerse yourself in the distinctive ambience of Chinatown

Chinatown, Melbourne is the western world’s longest continuous Chinese settlement, dating back to the 1850s.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and flavors of Chinatown , where bustling streets such as Little Bourke Street, Lonsdale Street and the alleys between the two come alive with the sights, sounds, and aromas of traditional Asian cuisine and vibrant market stalls.

18 – Be enchanted by Degraves Street

Wander through Degraves Street, a bustling laneway filled with charming cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.

The street epitomises the essence of Melbourne with its eclectic dining and shopping scene, with colorful street art adorning the walls, and busking violinists and saxophonists adding to the ambience.

19 –  Paddle off into the sunset: Yarra River kayaking with dinner

Experience the beauty of Melbourne’s skyline at sunset with a kayaking adventure along the Yarra River.

Once you are done paddling along the waterway, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner served on the water’s edge as the city lights begin to twinkle against the dusky sky.

• sunset kayaking in Melbourne

20 – Shop in style at The Block Arcade

Step into the elegant surroundings of The Block Arcade , a historic shopping arcade featuring ornate architecture and boutique shops. Stores sell everything from fashion to gourmet treats, where every corner exudes old-world charm and sophistication.

The arcade is home to well-known The Tea Rooms 1892 and you can join a guided walking tour that takes you back to the early days of colonial Australia and the city’s rich history.

21 – Awaken your wild side and overnight at the Melbourne Zoo

Spend a night surrounded by wildlife when you overnight at the Melbourne Zoo . Here you can enjoy exclusive after-hours access to exhibits, guided tours, and overnight accommodations in safari-style tents.

Before or after your night among the animals, you can visit the exhibits or one of the specific animal experiences with some of Australia and the rest of the world’s diverse creatures.

22 – Fun times await at Melbourne’s arcade bars

Immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of arcade bars like Archie Brothers , a cirque electriq that combines arcade fun with a kaleidoscope of cocktails. Bartronica has a more bar-like vibe with pinball machines, consoles and arcade games livening up the venue.

B. Lucky & Sons Melbourne Central  in the heart of the CBD is the newest of Melbourne’s arcade bars, and The Funderdome offers retro  and new school arcades, karaoke rooms, table games and diner food.

23 – Let off steam at The Smash Room

Release your stress and pent-up energy at The Smash Room , a venue with an 80’s retro-neon feel, where you can safely smash objects to your heart’s content in a controlled environment.

This cathartic and exhilarating way to blow off steam in a room of your choice can be followed up with a game of UV table tennis and is great fun for couples and groups.

24 – Get “rich” quick at Monopoly Dreams Melbourne

Embark on a journey through the world of Monopoly at Monopoly Dreams Melbourne , an interactive attraction where you can experience the iconic board game come to life, with life-sized game boards and immersive challenges around every corner.

This multi-sensory, 4D experience drops you into the fast paced world of Mr Monopoly. Visit his mansion, enter the iconic Monopoly jail and shop for merchandise you won’t find anywhere else.

• Monopoly Dreams Melbourne tickets

25 – Play it cool at O’Brien Icehouse

Glide across the ice at O’Brien Icehouse , Melbourne’s premier ice skating rink. The venue offers public skating sessions, figure skating lessons, and ice hockey games on their two rinks, providing a cool and exhilarating escape from the summer heat.

Even if you have never skated before the friendly staff are ready to get you skating safely.

26 – Let your imagination run wild with a movie experience under the stars at Melbourne outdoor cinemas

Experience the magic of outdoor cinemas at locations like Moonlight Cinema Melbourne where, in the summer months, you can watch a movie on the big screen on the lawns of Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.

A premium experience will get you a comfortable bean bed and decadent ice-cream. Lido on the Roof shows the latest releases on their roof screens and movies are also occasionally screened in the square at Federation Square , where you can enjoy blockbuster films under the stars, surrounded by the buzz of the city.

27 – Sharpen your aim with darts in the city

Sharpen your aim and compete with friends at darts bars like Ballers Clubhouse and Oche , where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere and friendly competition, with state-of-the-art dartboards and delicious drinks to keep you fuelled.

The experience at Oche can be described as gastro-gaming while Ballers Clubhouse is an experiential venue that offers multiple adult-focused games like darts, table tennis, shuffle board and a fun adult ball pit.

28 – Delight your tastebuds with a fine dining restaurant reservation

Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at Melbourne’s fine dining restaurants. Vue de monde , presents an impeccable experiential dining experience from the 55th floor of the Rialto Building.

Attica draws its inspiration from Australia itself with Grossi Florentino highlighting Italian gastronomy. Maha Restaurant , is a Middle Eastern taste sensation and bistro classics are cooked by master chef Phillipe Mouchel at Philippe .

29 – Give yourself goosebumps on a ghost tour

Explore Melbourne’s haunted history with ghost tours that take you to spooky sites and share chilling tales of paranormal activity throughout the city.

These walking tours visit some of the city’s most notorious spots and you guide will regale you with spine-tingling tales into the supernatural and unknown.

• ghost tours in Melbourne

30 – Shop ’til you drop at Myer Melbourne

Myer Melbourne is a premier department store whose first store launched in Bendigo in 1900. The merchandiser has a range of offerings including fashion, beauty, and homeware brands.

You can wander through this large department store located in the heart of the city and indulge in a luxurious shopping experience complete with personal stylists and exclusive designer collections.

31 – Dive into an alternate reality at Fortress Melbourne

Immerse yourself in the world of gaming at Fortress Melbourne, a state-of-the-art esports and gaming entertainment venue.

This gaming paradise features cutting-edge technology and immersive experiences, where gamers of all levels can come together to play, compete, and connect. Multiple bars and a fantasy-themed tavern and eatery add to the fun at Fortress.

32 – Discover the Old Melbourne Gaol on a spooky tour

Step into the past with a visit to Old Melbourne Gaol, where you can take ghost tours and explore the site of infamous historical events, including the execution of Australia’s most notorious criminals, offering a chilling glimpse into Melbourne’s dark and intriguing past.

Old Melbourne Gaol ghosts tours are one of the more unusual fun things to do in Melbourne at night.

• Old Melbourne Gaol tickets

33 – Cool off at IceBar Melbourne

Chill out at IceBar Melbourne , literally the city’s coolest spot. Everything from the walls to the glasses are made of ice, creating a unique and frosty drinking experience that transports you to a winter wonderland in the heart of the city.

This unique activity is a great experience for people of all ages!

• IceBar Melbourne tickets

34 – Putt it there at Holey Moley Mini Golf

Putt your way through themed courses at Holey Moley Mini Golf , where you can enjoy a round of golf with a twist in a funky and fun environment, complete with quirky obstacles and Instagram-worthy backdrops.

Located in the Melbourne CBD’s famous laneways, this mini golf course and bar also entertains with a funky karaoke room in the downstairs area.

35 – Let your star shine at a Melbourne karaoke bar

Belt out your favorite tunes in an open mic venue or a private room at one of the several karaoke venues in Melbourne.

At karaoke bars like Kbox Karaoke offer private karaoke rooms perfect for a few duets or a private party as does Ocean 12 Entertainment with its upgraded entertainment system and luxurious private rooms.

At Heroes Bar you can choose between slipping into a private karaoke room or hopping onstage and entertaining the audience.

36 – Witness Impossible Occurrences, Melbourne’s Exclusive Magic Show

Be amazed by Impossible Occurrences , Melbourne’s exclusive magic show featuring mind-bending illusions and sleight of hand tricks that will leave you spellbound.

The show is an intimate and immersive live experience with Luke Hocking, one of Australia’s most talented magicians.

The show is set in lavish surrounds at the Marriot Hotel, and you can also book a dinner and show package.

37 – Have a laugh at side-splitting comedy clubs

One of the most fun things to do in Melbourne at night has to be a visit to a comedy club. Whether you are watching enthusiastic amateurs, hilarious local or international acts at venues The Comic’s Lounge or Comedy Theatre laughter is all but guaranteed.

During the Melbourne International Comedy Festival , you can enjoy stand-up performances by top comedians from around the world, promising you a night of side-splitting laughter and good vibes.

38 – Embrace your inner child at Luna Park Melbourne

Rediscover your inner child at Luna Park Melbourne , an iconic amusement park offering thrilling rides, carnival games, and family-friendly entertainment along St Kilda’s foreshore.

At this historic and enduring theme park and entertainment zone, nostalgic charm and a vibrant atmosphere create memories that last a lifetime.

You can opt for a park entry ticket and pay for rides individually, or go for a ticket that permits entry and unlimited rides.

39 – Reveal your inner tough-guy with axe throwing

Unleash your inner lumberjack or viking at axe throwing venues like MANIAX Axe Throwing and Lumber Punks Axe Throwing Melbourne , where you can learn to throw axes like a pro in a safe and controlled environment.

Maniax is considered one of Australia’s best axe throwing venues and Lumber Punks is a fun locale for individual, small and large group experiences. Expert instructors and adrenaline-pumping challenges will keep you captivated.

40 – Take a stroll along Southbank Promenade

Stroll along Southbank Promenade, a bustling waterfront precinct dotted with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.

The promenade boasts stunning views of the Yarra River and city skyline, where the lively atmosphere and scenic vistas combine to create the perfect setting for a night out on the town.

41 – Exit the High Street to Melbourne Laneways bars

Explore Melbourne’s vibrant laneway bars, such as the below-ground Beneath Driver Lane for a speakeasy vibe with live Blues music, the 1920’s styled Eau de Vie for craft cocktails, Lily Blacks for the cocktail afficionado, and Her Bar for the warm European-inspired atmosphere.

Dive into these hidden Melbourne gems and experience the city’s unique bar scene.

42 – Drop a few pins bowling in Melbourne

Strike up some fun at Melbourne’s premier bowling alleys like Strike Bowling , Kingpin Crown , or The Keys .

Not all bowling alleys are just bowling alleys and you might find other activities like lazer tag, karaoke and escape rooms at some of the larger arcade locations.

Whether you’re a casual bowler or a competitive player, these venues offer a lively atmosphere perfect for a night out with friends.

43 – Zoom to the finish line at indoor karting

Get your adrenaline pumping with indoor karting at Auscarts Racing or Karting Madness . At Auscarts you can race the exhilarating 450 meter track with 12 bends.

At Karting Madness you’ll find Australia’s largest indoor karting center with a 600 meter standard track, state of the art racing simulators, a gaming arcade, golf simulator and other amusements.

Race against friends or challenge yourself to beat the track record for an exhilarating night of speed.

44 – Spend a night at the muesum with Nocturnal | Museum After Dark at Melbourne Museum

Experience Melbourne Museum like never before with Nocturnal , a series of after-dark events featuring live music, DJs, and exclusive access to exhibitions.

These adults-only experiences are themed and hosted by imminent experts, providing the chance to immerse yourself in culture and entertainment at this unique night-time experience.

45 – Boogie the night away at Melbourne’s best nightclubs

Dance the night away at Melbourne’s best nightclubs, including The Carlton Club , a lively and inclusive nightclub, the posh Curtin House and other popular hotspots.

Explore the city’s dynamic nightlife scene and discover new beats and vibes at every turn. The Night Cat is a Fitzroy institution with a diverse line-up and boudoir vibe.

The Sub-Club basement nightclub caters to the techno and left-field electro crown and New Guernica with its well-known disco ball entertains with weekly raves and special events.

46 – Surround yourself with the Masters at THE LUME Melbourne

Immerse yourself in art and technology at THE LUME Melbourne , an immersive digital art gallery showcasing stunning light projections and interactive exhibits.

This expansive 3000 square meter space surrounds visitors in a way that must be seen to be truly appreciated.

These profound and multi-sensory encounters are both playful and enlightening and literally position art in a new light. Lose yourself in a world of creativity and innovation at this one-of-a-kind attraction.

47 – Make a break for it at a Melbourne escape room

Test your wits and teamwork skills with an challenging adventure at one of the escape rooms in Melbourne ,  Adventure Rooms Melbourne , have standard escape room experiences as well as Duel Adventures where teams compete against one another.

Escape Room Melbourne is the original escape room location and has rooms designed by two expert puzzle-makers.

At Escape Hunt Melbourne you can solve puzzles, unravel mysteries, and escape before time runs at the venue or with an online challenge in the comfort of your home. Escape rooms provide participants with  an unforgettable night of fun.

48 – Defy gravity at indoor skydiving

Feel the thrill of indoor skydiving at iFLY Melbourne , where you can experience the sensation of freefalling in a safe and controlled environment.

Take flight and defy gravity for an exhilarating night of airborne excitement. With a full safety briefing and expert instructors, this fun thing to do in Melbourne at night or during the day is perfect for adventurers of all ages.

• indoor skydiving in Melbourne

49 – Indulge in some retail therapy at Chadstone Shopping Centre

Shop ’til you drop at Chadstone Shopping Centre , Australia’s largest shopping mall. The center offers a wide range of luxury brands, boutique stores, and dining options.

You can spend an evening indulging in retail therapy and exploring the latest fashion trends or spend time enjoying a meal and some entertainment in The Social Quarter.

50 – VR in Melbourne

Step into a virtual world at Virtual Room Melbourne , where you can embark on immersive multiplayer adventures with friends.

Experience the latest in virtual reality technology as an escape room concept merges with a virtually immersive experience for an unforgettable night of gaming and excitement.

VR experiences in Melbourne utilise high quality equipment and state of the art technology to prevent motion sickness and deliver a mind-lowing adventure suitable for families, friends, groups and couples.

• VR experiences in Melbourne

51 – Reach dizzying heights at indoor rock climbing

Set your fear of heights aside and step up and onto the climbing walls at indoor rock climbing experiences at Hardrock Climbing , Northside Boulders , or Bayside Rock .

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, these indoor gyms offer challenging routes and a thrilling workout.

52 – Craft a beer tasting session to remember

Sample the best of Melbourne’s craft beer scene at one or more of the city’s local breweries.

Discover unique brews and flavors while soaking in the city’s laid-back brewery atmosphere with beer tastings in Melbourne . Moon Dog World crafts beers and seltzers and has been growing since 2010.

Stomping Ground Brewing Co. celebrates the city with their lagers, ales, shandy’s and zero alcohol drinks. Welcome To Thornbury is located in the northern parts of the city and is a reimagined space, originally a car manufacturing factory, now a beer garden, bar and event space.

53 – Get rocking at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl

Enjoy a night of live music under the stars at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl . This beloved outdoor venue hosts concerts and events year-round.

Pack a picnic, gather your friends, and unwind to the sounds of local and international artists.

54 – Explore the city night scene on a characterful pub crawls

If you can’t decide between wine, beer or cocktails, embark on a pub crawl adventure through Melbourne’s eclectic neighborhoods.

From the bustling CBD to the trendy suburbs there are hidden gems, small joints off the beaten path, popping clubs and trendy drinking dens. Sample tasty local or premier drinks and soak up the city’s vibrant nightlife culture.

• pub crawls in Melbourne

55 – Attend a cabaret or burlesque performance at The Butterfly Club

Delight in cabaret and burlesque performances at The Butterfly Club , a cozy venue showcasing talented artists and captivating shows.

With over 1200 performances annually, the club is the perfect launchpad for new and exciting shows and performers. Experience the glamour and allure of Melbourne’s thriving performing arts scene at this intimate theater.

For a fun night in Melbourne, consider supporting local talent with a show and drinks in the heart of the city.

Final thoughts

As the sun sets over Melbourne, the city truly comes alive with exciting activities and experiences waiting to be discovered.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or simply a memorable night out with friends, Melbourne offers something for everyone after dark.

From dining cruises on the Yarra River to thrilling arcade bars and immersive theater performances, the options of things to do in Melbourne at night are endless.

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23 of the best things to do in Australia

Nov 2, 2023 • 13 min read

Experience the best of Australia with this guide to the top things to do © Dallas and John Heaton / Getty Images

An ancient land of diverse ecosystems, Australia is a nature lover’s wonderland.

From emerald rainforests and fragrant, eucalyptus-covered mountains, to golden ribbons of coastline  and woodland caves with Aboriginal art, there are countless ways to experience the beauty of this vast island nation. Even in urban settings, nature is never far away. Rainbow lorikeets squeal at sunset and crashing crystal waves will beckon you outdoors, if just to sip Aussie wine and scoff prawns. Here are the best things to do in Australia.

1. Admire the Sydney Opera House from a different angle

Inspired by yacht sails and surrounded by water, the glorious Sydney Opera House is an Australian icon. The majestic curves dominate Sydney Harbour and look impressive from every angle. Stroll right around its base – something many don’t know you can do – then take a white-knuckle climb up the  Sydney Harbour Bridge with a guide to get a view of the Opera House. For a quiet perspective, kayak at dawn as the sun kisses the surrounding waters, or picnic under Moreton Bay fig trees in the crowd-free Tarpeian Lawn in the Botanic Gardens.

Local tip: Time your visit to watch  Badu Gili  – a light show of First Nations stories by Aboriginal artists – projected onto the Opera House. It has been such a hit that in recent years it has turned into a daily free event at sunset.

2. Learn about bush food under the stars in the Red Centre 

The didgeridoo plays while the sun shimmers on the horizon and the earth’s rusty red intensifies. Then the Southern Cross and stars spill across the sky. Enjoy a tasting menu of native bush ingredients in the Northern Territory 's Red Centre alongside this remarkable backdrop.

3. Be dazzled by the marine life at Ningaloo Reef

The Great Barrier Reef has a lesser-known but equally dazzling sibling in Western Australia. Ningaloo Reef is a jeweled necklace of coral reef that fringes the coast, especially near Exmouth , making it very accessible for snorkelers. Nearby, blowholes force ocean water through sea caves and up to 20m (66ft) into the air. Ningaloo Reef is a magical place for swimming alongside whale sharks (the world’s largest fish) and migrating humpback whales (be sure to always give these wild creatures a lot of space).

Planning tip:  For children and those who don't want to swim, glass-bottom boats are a comfortable option to see manta rays and turtles gliding above the coral below.

4. Eat authentic world cuisine and new Australian fusions

Nearly half of all Australians were born overseas or have at least one parent born overseas. That’s why eating at restaurants in a Little Korea, Thai Town or Greek Precinct means you get the real deal. As always, it pays to window-shop for somewhere that has mostly local diners.

Modern Australian food highlights these world flavors through European cooking techniques, and its varied climate and nutrient-rich land produces top-quality fresh ingredients. Chefs are exploring pairing indigenous flavors such as desert lime and bush banana (which resembles snow peas) with seafood, Australia’s specialty. This kind of dining is always the most exquisite with a beach, river or harbor view.

5. Walk at Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania

On first seeing Cradle Mountain , even Aussies might exclaim, “I didn’t know Australia could even look like this!” It’s true that the glacier-hewed crags and alpine heaths here have a touch of the Scandinavian. Cradle Mountain is all Australian though, with pristine ancient rainforests, mirrored lakes, and unique fauna isolated from the rest of the world.  Hiking newbies: head to Ronny Creek for a glimpse of wombats drinking from a creek in a buttongrass moorland. The terrain is flat, and most visitors head for Dove Lake, so you’ll have the marsupials (and shuttle bus stop) to yourself.

6. Watch baby penguins waddle 

The sun won't even be up yet, but it'll be worth it – and your heart might melt – when you witness little blue penguins waddling across the sand. Phillip Island is the most famous penguin site, but there are other islands and even secret spots in cities such as  Manly in Sydney and St Kilda in Melbourne. 

7. Learn to surf, or at least have a laugh trying

You might not ride a tube on your first lesson, but paddling and standing on a surfboard for one glorious moment before being dumped in a fizzle of white foam is an amazing feeling. Besides, getting water-confident will help you enjoy some of Australia’s nearly 12,000 beaches . When the water’s choppy, try sandboarding on dunes across the country, often in places with rich Aboriginal history, including Henty Dunes in Tasmania . 

Local tip: Want to learn more about the history of surf culture and the grassroots campaign by women surf pros to be recognized and celebrated in the sport? Check out the 2021 documentary  Girls Can't Surf . 

8. Join Sydney locals on the Bondi to Coogee walk

Hugging 6km (3.7 miles) of coast between two beaches, the clifftop walk from Bondi beach is saturated by blue skies and rolling ocean. No matter how many times you walk it, each turn is a delight: outdoor baths that glitter with crashing ocean waves; Gordon’s Bay, decorated with wooden boats; Waverley Cemetery with the most exclusive resting place in Australia; McIver’s Ladies Seawater Baths hewn from rock; and lounging locals at Tamarama, Clovelly, and Bronte beaches, each with their own personality . 

Local tip: Stop at the Clovelly Bowling Green for a beer and a barefoot game of lawn bowls overlooking the ocean – you just need to sign in as a guest. The walk gets steep after this, so it may be tempting to stay and linger.

9. Feel ancient Australia in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory

Kakadu is the perfect kind of middle of nowhere. It’s the wild Australia that you might have already daydreamed about. Waterfalls bloom from rock, prehistoric crocodiles thrash the wetlands, lorikeets sing, and Aboriginal guides bring ancient rock art to life. As you trek between gorges and woodlands or hike for views over endless treetops, your worries seem far away. 

Planning tip: Helicopter or fixed-wing scenic flights are a wonderful way to get a sense of the sheer scale and beauty of Kakadu. Note that flights are only available over Jim Jim Falls in the wet season (November to April). Traditional owners request that the skies are rested in the dry season (May to October).

10. Celebrate Pride at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade 

It might have started off as a protest, but today, over 40 years later, Australia’s largest LGBTIQ+ Pride parties all night. What makes the parade the highlight is the 200 flamboyant floats. The vehicles are decorated 12 months ahead, and dancers practice weekly to sashay for that one night. Grab a stool or milk crate to watch from the sidelines and prepare to shout “Happy Mardi Gras!” to strangers. But the nightlife excels  all year round in Sydney , with cozy, queer-friendly pubs including the Bearded Tit . 

11. Explore Uluru with an Aboriginal guide

Uluru has been a sacred site to the Anangu, the area’s Aboriginal people, for 10,000 years. It’s definitely worth engaging an Anangu guide for the Kuniya walk to the Mutitjulu Waterhole at the base of Uluru to hear ancient stories, decipher rock art, and appreciate the significance of Uluru’s towering slopes.

Planning tip: Go at dawn to beat the heat, then go back at night to see the desert illuminated by 50,000 lights in the Field of Light show.

12. Spot native wildlife on Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Kangaroo Island is a montage of Australian nature on show. In one day, you can glimpse koalas snoozing in eucalyptus trees, echidnas waddling, and kangaroos and wallabies sunbathing. In between, walk under the towering stone fossils of Remarkable Rocks and dip your toes in the clear blue waters of a parade of beaches you'll have all to yourself (except those guarded by sea lions).

13. Cheer on Aussie sports from the Dunny Derby to AFL

Sport is everywhere in Australia, from international matches to the local Dunny Derby (yes, it’s a toilet race). Even if you aren’t a sports nut, seeing a big match taps you into the Australian psyche at its most excitable. Women’s sport is finally getting the attention it deserves in Australia and there’s a good turnout for women’s cricket and Australian Football League (AFL) games these days. Sydney will host the 2027 Netball World Cup, and netball might make it into the Brisbane 2032 Olympics lineup.

Planning tip:  Plan ahead for tickets to see the Australian Open tennis in Melbourne or the World Surfing Championships on the Gold Coast . 

14. Get naked at a nudist beach

Aussies aren’t that fussed about nudity or what adults do in their own time. Feel the sun bathe every inch of your body at one of Australia’s community-minded nudist beaches . Don’t forget sunscreen; the rays are mighty here and burnt bits aren’t fun.

15. Spot a koala 

Who doesn’t love a cuddly koala? Just look at their high-on-eucalyptus faces! Fortunately, cuddling koalas is no longer encouraged in most states, even in controlled environments like wildlife parks. Instead, you can spot one high up in the street trees of rural towns around Australia’s southeast coast. As well as admiring the wildlife , look out for opportunities to learn about Australian bush conservation and how people can help wildlife recover after bushfires.

16. Cycle Victoria’s High Country on dedicated rail trails

Thank lockdowns for the cycling rebirth in Australia. The Victorian High Country has rewarding views at every turn. Ribbons of roads and disused railway lines (now reinvented as cycling rail trails) roll out alongside olive groves, tree ferns, and wineries between alpine valleys and lake swims. There are long stretches of flats for families and casual riders, and mountain trails right into the bush for the adrenaline-chasing cyclist.

Detour: The Victorian High Country boomed with gold in the 1850s, and there are traces of this wealth – and the Chinese miners who sought it – in the towns along the way. Eldorado has a gold museum, while Yackandandah has both quaint tinned-roofed buildings and a historic cemetery dedicated to Chinese gold miners.

17. Admire Aboriginal rock art

Art has been essential to cultural life through 65,000 years of Aboriginal Australian history. Seeing Aboriginal art is a captivating launchpad to conversations about Australia today for its First Nations people. Learn more about the significance of rock art at the Northern Territory's Arnhem Land and the Quinkan rock galleries in Queensland; the emergence of dot paintings on canvas in the 1970s in the Northern Territory; or the storytelling of contemporary works displayed at city museums, such as the Yolngu women’s bark paintings.

18. Drink in Australia's varied wine regions

Australia is blessed with clean water and rich soil to produce some top wines. Winery hopping lets you feel the sun and country air that fed the grapes while you taste test. Try old vine Shiraz in the Barossa Valley (South Australia) or a cabernet sauvignon from the Margaret River region (Western Australia), chased down with chardonnay in the Hunter Valley (New South Wales) and finishing with a pinot noir in the Yarra Valley (Victoria) or a sweet Riesling in Tasmania. You’ll need a few weeks to do it all, and every one of these wine regions is worth visiting for more than just its grapes.

Local tip: Include a gourmet farm-to-table lunch right in the vineyards, with produce freshly plucked from the garden. If you’re booze-free, try some non-alcoholic wine, which is becoming easy to find in Australia.

19. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef sustainably

The Great Barrier Reef is a masterpiece of thousands of smaller reefs, coral, and islands. It’s a world must-see, not just for Australia. There’s no way to recommend a free-for-all visit; climate change has caused mass coral bleaching, and tourism can be damaging. Yet there are still ways to visit in a sustainable way, as well to contribute to its conservation, such as by participating in a citizen science or reef restoration program facilitated by local tour operators. Don't forget to wear reef-safe sunscreen. 

There is so much to see: turquoise waters resplendent with sea turtles floating above you and a kaleidoscope of coral beneath you; manta rays, dugongs, and a treasure trove of fish so diverse that there are species yet to be discovered. It’s enough to turn you into an advocate for marine conservation.

20. Try Aussie snacks

Australian food is world food, but there are some must-try Aussie staples that locals still adore. You might wince, but at least sample some yeasty, salty Vegemite spread thinly on toast. A smoother brunch is smashed avocado toast, an Australian invention; or a Thai curry pie, a spin on a classic Australian meat pie; and a sausage sizzle, the Aussie barbecue version of a hot dog.

You’re most likely to bring home Tim Tams, the chocolate-covered biscuits that Aussies longingly sob for when overseas. Australia’s greatest export to the coffee world is the flat white, which is most famously fine-tuned in Melbourne.

21. Stay out all night in Melbourne

In central Melbourne , the street-art-decorated laneways hide a society of wonderfully grungy cocktail bars and clubs. The famously moody weather of the city makes Melbourne an excellent place to go out while being entertained indoors. For interesting drinking, live music, historic theatres, and the Melbourne International Comedy and Film Festivals, the city dominates the country’s nightlife calendar.

Planning tip: If you're traveling with children and want a night out with the kids, check out the Victoria Market Night Market . There's one in summer and one in winter with street food stalls, buskers, live music, and local maker markets. Alternatively, many summer sporting events that run into the dark hours, like Friday night football, are also pretty child friendly.

22. Learn about Australia’s migration story

Australia is a vibrant nation of migrants. The Immigration Museum in Melbourne and the Migration Museum in Adelaide bring out the colorful threads of this timeline through memorabilia, voices, artifacts, and photos. They celebrate the positive elements in this story and are worth a visit for a deeper understanding of multicultural Australia.

23. Get used to sharing Australia with crocs, spiders and sharks

It’s true, Australia has some top-of-the-food-chain creatures. You have to go out of your way to bump into them, though. Wildlife parks are a (safe) way for kids – and adults – to get their thrills being splashed by a jumping crocodile, wincing at a funnel-web spider or black snake being milked of venom, and spotting the deadly spurs on a platypus. An even mightier heart thumper is cage diving at eye and teeth level with a great white shark.

Local tip: Obviously, you don't want to get cozy with deadly Australian animals. Always ask locals for advice on where it is safe to swim or walk, and heed warning signs before heading out. 

This article was first published Aug 20, 2021 and updated Nov 2, 2023.

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