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20 things every Melbourne visitor needs to know

If you're planning a visit, consult our handy guide to what to do (and not to do) in our city

Coming to Melbourne for the first time? Welcome to Australia's cultural capital (sorry, Sydney)! But where should you stay ? What should you pack? How should you spend your time and money ? There's a lot to see and do in our city — and there's a lot that you can probably give a miss. To help you sort the wheat from the chaff, here are 20 tips every first-time visitor to Melbourne needs to know for a successful trip.

Looking for more tips on what to do? Consult our guide to 101 things everyone should do in Melbourne at least once  and make sure at least one of our city's best restaurants makes its way onto your itinerary.

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Melbourne travel tips

1.  Plan your visit to coincide with a festival

Melburnians love to have a good time, and as a result, our city has festivals devoted to comedy, food and wine, beer, theatre, dance, film and art throughout the year.  Check out LGBTQIA+ festival  Midsumma in January, the Fashion Festival in March, the  Comedy Festival  in April,  Good Beer Week in May,  Open House Melbourne in July,  Melbourne International Film Festival in August,  Melbourne Fringe  in September... Yep, we told you: there are heaps. 

2.  Buy a Myki before you board

If you want to engage a Melburnian in conversation, there are two sure-fire topics: the weather and the Myki system. The contactless ticketing system for Melbourne's public transport network cost $1.5 billion and has been riddled with problems, but the bottom line is this: a Myki card costs $6. You can buy them at machines, train stations and in some retail outlets (such as 7-Eleven and Tattersall's outlets), but you cannot buy them on the tram or bus. When you buy a Myki, choose between 'Myki money' (your fare will be deducted each time) or 'Myki pass', which is a set amount of money for a set number of days of unlimited travel. If you board a train, tram or bus, 'touch on' your Myki by tapping it against the Myki reader. When you get off at your station or stop, 'touch off' by tapping it again. The only exception is trams in Melbourne CBD – listen out for announcements, they will tell you whether you are in the free tram zone. If you are, you don't need to touch on or touch off. 

3.  Stand on the left, walk on the right

If you want to take it easy on an escalator and let the machine do its thing, stand on the left and chill. If you are in a hurry and you want to do a hectic run up or down (NB: safely, please), you are welcome do to do so on the right of of the escalator steps. And an extra tip: know what you are getting in for before you decide to climb the escalator at Parliament Station. It is a long way to the top if you want to walk and roll. 

4.  Go on a walking tour

If you are able, the best way to see Melbourne is on foot, so lace up those boots. A walking tour is a great way to learn some of the history of the city, discover some hidden gems and get the lay of the land. These are our nine favourite walking tours in Melbourne , or you could check out the  fluro-green shirt-wearing  I'm Free Walking Tours  – they are, as advertised, free.

5.  You can eat late, but you need to know where

• Restaurants

Our fair city wears the mantle of 'Late Night Champion' with pride. Nowhere else in the country can you party at all hours and then go out for a civilised meal. Many Melbourne restaurants do close their kitchens at by 10pm, but there are plenty that keep going. When the streets have gone quiet and you're after something greasy to soak up all the booze mingling in your stomach, consult our handy guide . 

6.  Pack for all seasons

The 'four seasons in one day' trope is old and tired, and the 'you don't like the weather, wait an hour' trope is even older and tireder, but you get the gist. Melbourne weather is like a flaky boyfriend  — incredibly unreliable and never seems to have a solid plan.  In winter it is likely to be cold and rainy, but you can also get some gorgeous 24-and-sunny days. In summer you might arrive smack-bang in the middle of a 40-degree heatwave, but it could equally be a chilly high of 14 with a chance of showers. Bring a raincoat, boots and layers, so you can stay comfortable when the winds of change blow. 

7.  You can get a drink late at night, but not everywhere

• Cocktail bars

Melbourne does think of itself as a 24-hour city, but it's not New York. Many bars close at 1am, and more close at 3. But if you're looking to grab a quiet-ish drink late into the night, we've rounded up our favourite nocturnal bars here . And if you've got your dancing shoes on and you want to party until dawn? We've got you covered for that too . 

8.  You can eat well, for cheap

• price 3 of 4

Melbourne has a robust fine dining scene, but you can also find  wonderful cheap meals  in every corner of the city. Did you know that we have the best croissants in the world (no less than The New York Times says so )? You can also try formerly Michelin-starred food in Melbourne for less than $10 . Or you can head to Chinatown and try some of our wonderful cheap and cheerful dumplings . But if you're after something elevated that won't leave you scrounging for pennies when rent is due, we've rounded up cheap hacks for fine dining restaurants here . 

9.  Get off the main drag

Melbourne's famous laneways are the result of subdividing big properties, but they are among the city's happiest accidents. Street artists have turned our laneways and alleys into a colourful playground, and they are ever-so-'grammable. You'll also find some of our best bars hidden in laneways and off the beaten track. 

10.  Theatre need not cost an arm and a leg

Melbourne has a relatively small (relative to Broadway and the West End, that is) but very vibrant theatre scene. At any one time, there could be half a dozen big blockbuster shows and at least a dozen smaller productions around the city. Tickets to many shows can be well over $100, and there is no TKTS booth like in London or New York to snag half-price tickets. But that doesn't mean you always have to shell out the sticker price. Find out our secrets to scoring cheap tickets here .

11.  Get into coffee culture

Melbourne is the coffee capital of Australia, and some Melburnians would say the world. Thousands of baristas in thousands of cafés across the city pride themselves on the quality of their roasts, beans, milk ratios and all the rest, and Melbourne does not tolerate bad coffee. For the best of the best, consult our handy guide here .

12.  Go exploring

One of the best things to do in Melbourne is get out of Melbourne, at least for a little while. One of Australia's best cool-climate wine regions, the Yarra Valley , is right on our doorstep, and you can get there by car in under an hour. Check out our list of the best wineries in the Yarra Valley , and if you don't have a designated driver, there are plenty of bus tours  that depart from Melbourne and will let you taste and buy to your heart's content without risking a knock on the window from the cops. If you want to see Victoria's famous Twelve Apostles, you should hit the Great Ocean Road . This one isn't as suited to a day trip, though – stay overnight in a coastal town like Aireys Inlet, Lorne or Port Campbell to make the most of your time and really explore the area.

13.  Research accessibility requirements

Melbourne's cobblestone laneways and heritage-listed buildings are charming, but they are not always wheelchair-, crutches- or pram-friendly. To stay on the safe side, do a bit of research or call ahead and find out what venues are suited to your needs. 

14.  Do your shopping during the day

Melbourne is known for its  great shopping , but don't expect that awesome boutique to be open after 5pm or on Sundays. Many shops close pretty early Monday-Wednesday and might be open just Saturday and/or Sunday morning. Your best bets for late-night shopping are Thursday and Friday nights, with many shops open until 9pm on those days. 

15.  Get amongst Melbourne's live music scene

Melbourne has a thriving live music scene, and you don't need to shell out big bucks to see gigs at stadiums or big halls. Live music stalwarts in the north,  the Tote  and the Gasometer , have gigs on most nights, and you'll find great undiscovered gems alongside more established acts. We have compiled a list of where to see live music every single night of the week in Melbourne, so you never have to suffer in silence. 

16.  Be respectful about what you take home

If you’d like to take home an Indigenous-made souvenir, be aware that not all Aboriginal art is authentic or ethically sourced. There’s an Indigenous Art Code that provides a legal framework for commercial dealings and sets ethical standards. If you’re buying from a gallery, pick one that’s a signatory to the Code. Besides this, you should always ask for details of the work’s provenance (who made it, where, and when) and proof of authenticity (did the artist named actually make this work?).

17.  Many of our museums and galleries are free

Melbourne is home to one of the world's most visited galleries , with millions of people stopping by the National Gallery of Victoria every year. The NGV houses some absolutely world-class art in its permanent collection, and it's absolutely free to see. The gallery hosts a rotating cast of temporary exhibitions, which cost money, but the permanent collection is always free. The permanent collection of film, video, games, pop culture and history at the  Australian Centre for the Moving Image  is also always free. For more, check out our guide to Melbourne's best free galleries . 

18.  Our beaches don't have waves

Many a visitor to Melbourne has been left underwhelmed by our beaches, because there's something rather fundamental missing: waves. All of Melbourne's beaches are on Port Phillip Bay, which is great for avoiding sharks, but not so great for surfing. Many of us enjoy the tranquility and safety of Melbourne beaches, where the ocean more resembles a gentle, shallow bath than the fearsome sea. But if it's waves you want, you'll need to hit the road. Drive to  Phillip Island  or head down the Great Ocean Road  to enjoy Victoria's more celebrated (and wave-filled) beaches.

19.  Embrace the first meal of the day

It's apparently the reason millenials can't buy houses , but breakfast (and brunch) in Melbourne is a big deal. Melbourne is really big on café culture , and you can get fantastic smashed avocado on toast and much more adventurous brunch options all over the city. Most cafés will serve breakfast until at least 2pm, especially on weekends, so there's no need to get up at the crack of dawn. At lunch, you can depend on Melbourne's cafés for simple chicken-and-avocado, ham-and-cheese or chicken schnitzel sandwiches, toasties or wraps. 

20.  Explore the suburbs

There is a lot of great stuff in Melbourne CBD, but that's not all there is to Melbourne. To really get to know our city, it's crucial that you spend some time exploring areas outside the city grid. Our area guides  can help you make the most of the suburbs – highlights include the Abbotsford Convent in Abbotsford, the Astor Theatre in Windsor, Lune Croissanterie in Fitzroy and  Heide Museum of Modern Art in Bulleen. 

Where should you stay?

The best spa hotels in Melbourne

• Luxury hotels

In the mood to treat yourself? A visit to one of the best spa hotels in Melbourne will do the trick. After a day of exploring the best that this city has to offer, you’ll probably be in the mood for some relaxation, whether that be a luxurious massage or a refreshing dip in a cool hotel pool. So kick back, put your feet up and enjoy.

The best luxury hotels in Melbourne

Spending a night in a luxurious hotel is a treat that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. Thankfully, you don't need to leave Melbourne to find world-class accommodation in the heart of the city. 

The best boutique hotels in Melbourne

• Boutique hotels

Do you want to stay somewhere just a little bit different, somewhere with a story or unique selling point – somewhere boutique? Fortunately Melbourne's boutique hotel scene is heaving with interesting stays available across the city. 

Want to see the rest of Victoria?

The best day hikes from Melbourne

For a breath of fresh air, head out of the city this weekend with our guide to Melbourne’s best day hikes. From local wonders to seaside spectacles, regional Victoria is brimming with picturesque walks great for getting your heart pumping. 

The best day trips from Melbourne

If you're looking for a break from the inner-city grid, there's no better cure than a day trip from Melbourne. The state of Victoria is full of friendly neighbourhood towns, whether you're in the mood for a winery tour, a road trip or a national park to explore. 

The best road trips from Melbourne

Don't just read about Melbourne getaways... get out and try one! These day trips from Melbourne are paved with cool things to see and do, and driving means you won't miss a thing along the way. Just choose your direction and hit the road.

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Absolutely EVERYTHING to see, do and experience in Australia

Melbourne Travel Guide (See, Do, Eat, Stay, Save & More!)

Travelling to Melbourne and think it’s going to be just another big city? Think again. Melbourne is bursting with quirks, things to do, its unique culture and identity, diversity and is definitely one of the best places to visit in Australia .

Spending time in Melbourne, whether it’s a few days or you’ve decided to move to Melbourne, there are some things you need to learn about the city and how to make the most of your time in this awesome place. Read on for all the things you should know in this Melbourne travel guide (written by a local!)

Table of Contents

• 1.1 A Quick Guide to Melbourne Culture
• 1.2 Understand the Lingo
• 1.3 Be Prepared for Melbourne’s Weather
• 1.4 How to Get Around Melbourne (and from the airport)
• 1.5 Where to Stay in Melbourne
• 2.1 Food Scene
• 3 Melbourne is the Sporting Capital of Oz
• 4 Top 10+ Things You Must Do in Melbourne
• 5 Amazing Day Trips Near Melbourne

A Complete Melbourne Travel Guide (by a local!)

A quick guide to melbourne culture.

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria located in Southern Australia and is both an international gateway and a fantastic marker for Australian road trips. Visiting Melbourne is a unique trip in itself though because there is a culture in the city that residents abide by and tourists can sense.

To make the most out of your Melbourne trip, first you need to understand Melbourne culture. Melburnians are liberal, laidback, cool and accepting people. Melbourne is a multicultural city and the diversity is reflected in the street art, neighbourhoods, food, museums, galleries and events. The city is LGBTQ+ friendly .

You must learn the ways of the weather, catch a few Melbourne phrases, order the correct coffee, integrate music into your visit, know that the centre of the city is known as the CBD and confidently wear all black, every day.

Understand the Lingo

It’s not just the drinks lingo unique to Melbourne, all the locals seem to have nicknames too. If there’s a Jonathan it’s highly likely that he’ll be known as Jonno and I’m sure your Aussie friends will come up with a nickname for you at some point.

Above all, it’s the everyday language in Melbourne that is a great experience to live and work amongst, and if you meet locals on your travels then you’ll get to hear their talk too about the footie, their beloved Straya and when they answer ‘yeah, nah’ and you’re not 100% if it was a yes or a no.

Just remember, most things are abbreviated so: afternoon is arvo, avocado is avo, McDonalds is Maccas and, one of the most famous, a barbecue is a barbie!

Be Prepared for Melbourne’s Weather

There are some of the most gorgeous sunsets found on the city outskirts looking over the skyline, the most torrential hailstones, wind that can knock your socks off, blistering Australian heat and risk of flooding. That can all happen in one day. Yes, in one day!

Although it sounds apocalyptic to everyone outside of Melbourne, none of the locals bat an eyelid because it’s a normal occurrence. It will be the height of summer and you’ll see Melburnians carrying an umbrella in their bags or it’s a miserable, rainy day but some of the locals have planned a barbecue that afternoon. That’s because of the high likelihood of the weather flipping and how they are so accustomed to four seasons in one day.

To be prepared:

• Don’t be surprised when this happens on your trip and don’t get too annoyed about it, it’ll probably change in an hour
• Be mindful of the change in the weather and carry anything you may need like an umbrella or sun cream
• Embrace the wonder that is the weather in Melbourne and treat it as a part of the culture in the city
• Read our guide to the Best Time to Visit Melbourne (A Month by Month Guide) for more details!

How to Get Around Melbourne (and from the airport)

Once you’ve escaped the international airport, It’s so easy to get around Melbourne because the public transportation is reliable and often. The main means of transport is the inner-city tram but there are also train lines, buses and efficient, ever-growing Uber, Ola and DiDi.

To get around with any of the public transportation, you must get a myki card (pronounced my-kee). This little black piece of plastic is a key to the city. You can top up at most stops and 7/11s and all you have to do is tap it on for your journey. Be mindful that there are inspectors who check if people have tapped on and unlike Sydney, you cannot use a debit or credit card directly on the machines – you HAVE to have a Myki.

Tip: If you get the tram and you’re within Melbourne CBD (Central Business District), then you don’t have to tap on or tap off because the CBD is a completely free zone.

Another note about getting around Melbourne is the fact that traffic lights and stopping at crossings are taken seriously and the rules are followed very strictly. There is no jay-walking and you’ll soon get used to stopping every few blocks to cross the road and hearing the familiar sound that allows you to cross. So many people associate this noise with walking around Melbourne.

Where to Stay in Melbourne

• United Backpackers Melbourne (Backpackers <$50) United Backpackers has been voted the best backpackers in town and has the best location, directly opposite the iconic Flinders Street Station and 50 meters from Federation Square and the beautiful Yarra River. Check Prices for later  | Read Reviews
• Travelodge Hotel Melbourne Southbank (Mid-Range hotel <$200) The Travelodge is located in the heart of Southbank, close to the Yarra River and walking distance to many tourists attractions, restaurants, bars and the shopping precinct. Check Prices for later | Read Reviews
• Crown Towers (Luxury >$300) The Crown Tower is undoubtedly the most luxurious hotel in Melbourne. The rooms have recently been renovated and some have uninterrupted views of the Yarra and the city. Located in Southbank, it has the perfect location. Check Prices for later | Read Reviews on Trip Advisor

Where to Eat & Drink in Melbourne

Understanding the culture surrounding food and drink in Melbourne is something you will acquire over time spent in the city and eating/drinking out but there are some obvious points to learn about locals and the drinking/eating out culture.

The diverse food scene is one of the best parts of Melbourne and there are hundreds of quirky Melbourne eateries to choose from. Given that Melbourne has the largest Greek population outside of Greece, it’s obvious that the Greek food is authentic and delicious. There’s also Melbourne Chinatown with authentic Hot Pots (an absolute must-eat in Melbourne where you choose your own ingredients from shelves, pick a broth and they whip it up in under 10 minutes). Also, go to Lygon Street for the best, authentic Italian cuisine.

Don’t forget to try the Australian specialties too like a burger with an egg and beetroot, a parmigiana (fondly known to the locals as a ‘parmie’), an Australian pie and pavlova for dessert.

Our Melbourne CBD Restaurant Recommendations:

• Supernormal;
• Rice Paper Scissors.

Brunch is a way of life in Melbourne and has become ingrained in the culture. You’ll find brunch almost everywhere in Melbourne and to find some gems, get out to the suburbs of Melbourne. In addition, bottomless brunch is also popular with locals on the weekends and you can find some great deals to drink as much as you can in two hours with, of course, a choice of brunch.

Our recommended brunch spots in Melbourne:

• Top Paddock for brunch;
• Baco Brunswick for a Mexican inspired bottomless brunch; and
• Fargo and Co (Richmond) for typical Aussie fare and bottomless prosecco, mimosas + schooners of house beer !

Coffee is an integral part of Melbourne life. Everyone drinks coffee and everyone has their order perfected. It’s quite hard to find a bad coffee in Melbourne (even the 7/11 ones are good and cost just a dollar). There is an art to serving coffee so it will be hard to get a barista job in Melbourne without some experience (unless you luckily find a gig where they train you). There is no such thing as ordering ‘a coffee’. You must be specific in what coffee you want. Things to ask for:

• Type of coffee. E.g. Latte, Cappuccino, Macchiato,
• Caffeinated or Decaf
• How strong. E.g. half a shot, double, treble
• Frothy or flat
• Type of milk. E.g. full fat, skinny, oat, almond
• Sugar, sweetener or syrup
• How hot. E.g. Extra hot

It may seem like an ordeal but once you know, you know and you’ll notice every time a tourist asks for ‘a coffee’.

Insider Tips: As the undisputed coffee snobs of Australia, Melburnians are proud of the coffee culture, and some of the best drops can be found in the inner city suburbs. Head to Industry Beans in Brunswick Street or Heartattack and Vine in Carlton.

Melbourne is the Sporting Capital of Oz

The religion in Melbourne is Australian Rules Football via the Australian Football League (AFL). I have never seen anything like the day of the AFL Grand Finale. The streets were silent and the shops and public transport were empty because if they weren’t at work, every single Melburnian resident was either at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (above), at home or in a pub watching (and screaming at) the final game. Afterwards, there were swarms of people coming back to the city and the game colours looked like a moving parade through Melbourne CBD.

It’s not just the footie that is a major event in Melbourne, as the ground’s namesake above, cricket is a huge deal in Melbourne (and in Australia as a whole) and many international and major matches are played in the heart of Melbourne.

The famous Australian Open is a tennis tournament held in Melbourne every January and is the first of four global events across the year including French Open, Wimbledon and US Open. The Australian Open is a huge deal in Melbourne with lots of hype around the city in the lead up and promotions in bars/pubs for the matches. If you don’t have tickets to see the action live, the games are shown on a big screen in Federation Square and there’s other pop-up competitions around Melbourne for the chance to win tickets! It’s a fun time to be in Melbourne whether you like Tennis or not.

There’s also the Australian Grand Prix held a few weeks after the Australian Open and is a significant event for motor racers around the world. Formula One is hosted in Melbourne’s Albert Park Circuit every year with lots of hype and promotion for the event around the city. In Melbourne, you can hear the cars racing and revving from miles away and you can make your way to St Kilda on Tram number 96 to get in on the action of the competition.

Every November is a ‘race that stops the nation’, another sporting importance called the Melbourne Cup, Australia’s most famous horse racing competition, held in none other than its namesake, Melbourne. Venues all over Melbourne take advantage of this time of year and host fancy bottomless brunches and other organised afternoons specifically to show the Melbourne Cup. It’s a day where everyone dresses in their Sunday best, gambles and drinks.

A good place that will show almost all the sporting games is the Crown Casino, arguably its own landmark in Melbourne CBD, found next to the Yarra River. Visiting the Crown Casino is a must in Melbourne anyway but a good excuse to visit is to watch a sports game.

Hopefully, you can now understand why sport is of cultural significance for Melburnians with all the sporting events they hold in their city!

Top 10+ Things You Must Do in Melbourne

• Soar to the Southern Hemisphere’s highest viewing point, Eureka Skydeck (one of the ‘highest’ Melbourne attractions)
• Visit Melbourne’s Market lanes and street markets such as Queen Victoria Market (above), South Melbourne Market, Prahran Market and Flinders Lane for local produce, fresh food, books and vintage finds.
• Get tickets for the National Gallery of Victoria and Ian Potter Centre for exhibitions, art and history.
• Learn the history of prisoners in Australia and Old Melbourne Gaol in an immersive experience.
• Enjoy a picnic (with your goods from the markets) in one of the parks such as Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria or Fitzroy Gardens.
• See some live music.
• Mix Art and Culture as you explore the impressive street art in Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, Centre Place and more (it’s actually one of the best Free Things to do in Melbourne ).
• Take a picture outside iconic Flinders Street Station.
• Shopping at DFO South Wharf.
• See the penguins at night in the seaside suburb, St Kilda .
• Drive one of the World’s most scenic drives on a Great Ocean Road road trip . There are more day trips below but this is an absolute must which is why it’s made the top 10. (Read our 3 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary if you have more time!)

Amazing Day Trips Near Melbourne

• Great Ocean Road for scenic drives, spotting Koalas and Kangaroos and skydiving.
• Official Neighbours Tour in Melbourne for any Jason and Charlene fans.
• Mornington Peninsula for golden bay area, swimming with seals, and wineries.
• Phillip Island for wildlife and the world-famous penguin parade.
• Wilsons Promontory for the most southern part of Australia.
• Geelong for craft brewery tours.
• Dandenong Ranges for hiking and the Puffing Billy Steam Train.
• Grampians National Park or Macedon Ranges for hiking.
• Yarra Valley for Australian wine.

Hopefully, after reading our Melbourne Travel Guide you’re now in a great position to arrive in Melbourne with a plan to enjoy the city and the many things to do and experience in Melbourne. Enjoy your time and we hope you can use this travel information and travel guide for Melbourne to plan the perfect trip.

Have we covered everything you wanted to know about Melbourne? Let us know in the comments! And if you know of anyone heading to Melbourne and needs little help planning their trip, please share this article with them via Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, Whatsapp or Flipboard. Just remember, sharing is caring!

READY MORE TRAVEL INSPIRATION? YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN THESE RECENT POSTS, TRAVEL ARTICLES, DESTINATION GUIDES, TRAVELER RESOURCES, TRAVEL GEAR GUIDES AND RELATED POSTS ABOUT OTHER AMAZING PLACES AROUND AUSTRALIA:

• Test Your Aussie Knowledge: The Big Australia Trivia Quiz + 80+ Interesting Facts about Australia
• New South Wales: Top Things to do in Sydney (inc. The Sydney Opera House, Byron Bay & the Blue Mountains ) & Best Places to visit in NSW
• South Australia: Guide to the Ikara Flinders Ranges
• Northern Territory: Best Things to do in Darwin
• Victoria: The Ultimate Victoria Bucketlist, Melbourne Travel Guide (Perfect for First Timers), Best Time to Visit Melbourne , Free Things to do in Melbourne + 16 Best Day Trips from Melbourne
• General Australia Inspiration:  Best Australian Travel Apps + Australia Travel Tips to Know Before You Go
• Queensland News & Events: Things to do on the Gold Coast, Best Beaches in QLD , Great Barrier Reef & 50 Things to do in Outback Queensland

Hi There! Thanks for reading our Melbourne guide to the Ultimate Guide to Melbourne Travel Guide (See, Do, Eat, Stay, Save & More!).   I just wanted to let you know that this post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full disclosure here .

1 thought on “Melbourne Travel Guide (See, Do, Eat, Stay, Save & More!)”

Your Melbourne travel guide is awesome. I liked how you explained everything, It seems really convenient and easy to understand. Thank you for sharing all this valuable information with us.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Melbourne – Best Things To Do, See & Much More

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A Brief History of Melbourne

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As the sporting and cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne has plenty to offer visitors from all over the world. From the rooftop bars and designer boutiques that give the city a cosmopolitan feel, to its plentiful array of historical buildings and landmarks — Melbourne has something new to discover on every corner. You can immerse yourself in Melbourne’s rich Victorian heritage at the Royal Exhibition Building, one of the oldest remaining exhibition pavilions in the world. Or walk a mile in the shoes of the early western settlers, who found themselves paying for their crimes in the eerie but fascinating Melbourne Gaol.

Step straight back into the 21st century at the Scienceworks with plenty of interactive exhibits that link Melbourne’s industry, heritage, and applied technology in one place. Or enjoy the wonderful collection of museums and art galleries dotted throughout the city.

If food is your thing, Melbourne will certainly not disappoint. From traditional Aussie fare to cool contemporary cuisine, there’s a wealth of restaurants, cafes, bistros, and bars to keep your taste buds tempted. A nice cool beer is always on the menu, and so are some of the finest wines in Australia, many of which are produced in the neighboring wine regions and breweries of Victoria.

The city of Melbourne was first founded on the Yarra River in 1835 and went on to enjoy significant growth up until 1850, despite remaining a relatively rural settlement. The Gold Rush in 1851, however, totally transformed the area from a colony of smallholdings into a hotbed of immigration and development, which would later establish Melbourne as Australia’s major financial center.

The State of Victoria saw a major influx of new settlers all looking to strike gold! With them came a steady flow of provisions for housing, food, and mining equipment, which helped over £100 million worth of gold to be plucked from the region in the 1850s alone. With Victoria now being a very wealthy colony, the fortunes of the new Victorians flourished.

The International Exhibition of 1880 placed Melbourne firmly on the map as an important trade center for wool, wheat, and other agricultural products, as well as being Australia’s most refined city.

Despite suffering during the depression of the 1930s, the city rose again in the mid to late 20th century, becoming home to headquarters operations for a lot of the country’s largest companies (many of whom are still based in the city today). Now a culturally diverse city offering some of the best living standards throughout Australia, Melbourne has come a long way from its humble rural roots.

Tip: Flying to Australia? We’ve created a super in-depth guide on the best ways to fly to Australia using points and miles.  

Melbourne is Australia’s second largest city and is considered by many to be the cultural and sporting capital of Australia. For all of its fine restaurants, elegant buildings and historically important landmarks, the city is also extremely welcoming and has a multicultural feel that appeals to most visitors.

If you’d like to know some useful facts and figures before you visit, here are a few to get you going:

Population: 4.8 million

Area (including greater metropolitan area): 9,992.5 square kilometers

Official Language: English

Other Languages Spoken: Melbourne is home to residents from all over the world, and as many as 251 languages can be heard throughout the city every day.

Religion: The major religion of the country is Christianity. In Melbourne this is broken down into the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican Church, Eastern Orthodox, and the Uniting churches.

Current Prime Minister: Malcolm Turnbull

Time Zone: The standard time zone for Melbourne is UTC+10:00 (Coordinated Universal Time), changing to UTC+11:00 when daylight savings time (DST) is in operation.

Currency: Australian Dollar AUD

Country Dialing Code Prefix: +61

Emergency Numbers: Dial 000 and ask for the service you require (police, fire service, or ambulance service)

Open space: 9% (including parks and gardens)

Taxi Cabs: 7,544

Cafes and Restaurants: 2,336

Beaches: Over 30 designated public beaches plus many more private inlets and coastal spaces.

Australia may well be the smallest continent on Earth, but it is a vast region surrounded by water on all sides. Most visitors reach Australia by air, and flight times can be pretty long even from neighboring countries.

Flying Into Melbourne

Opened in the 1970s, Melbourne Airport (also known as Tullamarine Airport) is the only international airport serving the city of Melbourne , and the second busiest airport in Australia .

Avalon Airport, Essendon Airport, and Moorabbin Airport also service the city, but are limited to internal or cargo flights only.

Tullamarine Airport provides international flights to destinations all over the world and is serviced by the following airlines:

Air Asia, Aircalin, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air Mauritius, Air New Zealand, Air Vanuatu, Capital Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Emirates, Etihad, Fiji Airlines, Garuda Indonesia Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Japan Airlines, Jetstar Airlines, Latam Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Qantas Airways, Royal Brunei Airlines, Scoot, Sichuan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines, Thai Airlines, United Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Virgin Australia, Xiamen Air

Once you’ve landed on Australian shores, finding your way to the city of Melbourne is quite straightforward.

Traveling From the Airport to the City

Melbourne Airport offers a dedicated shuttle service from the terminal to the city itself. The SkyBus is the main airport shuttle, which leaves from 2 locations outside the terminals and operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. SkyBus runs to and from Southern Cross Station and leaves every 10 minutes for most of the day.

Tickets are $19 one-way or $38 return for adults; up to 4 children can travel for free. The journey time is usually between 20-40 minutes depending on traffic.

There are other shuttle buses available that run directly to some of the inner-city hotels. Prices range from $18-$25 depending on destination, and there is no need to change buses at Southern Cross Station.

Public transport can also take you from the airport into the CBD (Central Business District). Using a low-cost myki card, you can enjoy a leisurely route on both the train and the bus to reach your accommodation. The 901 bus to Broadmeadows station will let you catch a train for the remaining 40-minute trip to Flinders Street in the CBD. Services run at 15-minute intervals during the week, and every half hour at night and on weekends. Costs vary depending on your destination.

There are currently no direct train links between Melbourne Airport and the city center. If you do want to take the train, you would need to hop on the 901 bus to Broadmeadows Station and then catch the Craigieburn Line train into the city center. You’d need to allow well over an hour for this journey.

There are plenty of taxis located in designated ranks outside the exits of Melbourne Airport. The journey can take anywhere between 40-60 minutes (or sometimes more during busy periods), and it will cost you around $60 for a single journey.

You can pre-book a taxi to pick up you and your luggage from inside the airport if this is simpler. Taxi services like rideways.com and taxicode.com will allow you to book your pickup online.

Uber drivers also operate in and around Melbourne, and you can arrange your pickup simply by using the app on your Smartphone.

Trams are a major form of public transportation in Melbourne, with a network covering over 250 kilometers in the metro area. The City Trams are free, but they don’t extend all they way to the airport. You would need to reach Southern Cross station before enjoying a tram ride or 2.

Once you’ve arrived in the city, there are plenty of options for affordable, reliable, and easily accessible public transportation.

To travel on the Melbourne bus system, you’ll need to purchase a myki card. These cost $6 for adults and $3 for children, and they need to keep a positive balance in order for you to travel. Your myki card can be topped up at over 800 retailers throughout the city. Alternatively, you can purchase a myki explorer pack that combines a ready-to-use myki card with helpful information and special offers for visitors to the city. When you leave, you can even donate your myki card to charity.

Buses run all over the city from around 6:00am until 9:00pm most days, and the Night Network runs all night metropolitan trains, trams, and late night buses on weekends.

You can find more information about bus routes and timetables at Public Transport Victoria .

Trams have been an iconic sight in the city since 1885, and the network now offers over 490 trams covering 24 routes and 1,763 tram stops. It is the largest urban tramway network in the world…and better still, the City Tram Zone is entirely free to travel on! This makes it a great way to explore the inner-city areas. Trams run most days from 8:45am until around 4:00pm.

Again, further details on tram routes and timetables can be found at Public Transport Victoria .

Taxis and Ubers are also plentiful on the streets of Melbourne, and you can hail a car, pick one up at a designated taxi rank, or pre-book a trip online. Melbourne taxis display a light on top of the cab roof and are usually painted yellow, silver, or white. Drivers are required to wear a uniform in the city and display an identity card on the dashboard at all times.

Information about taxi firms, fares, and regulations can be found at the Taxi Services Commission website.

Melbourne’s metro trains run between the outer suburbs and Flinders Street Station. The City Loop is Melbourne’s very own underground system; although small, it offers quick and easy access to 5 stations within the central business district. If you want to travel further into the suburbs or out into Victoria, Southern Cross Station is the main hub for both regional and interstate rail services in and out of Melbourne. You can use your myki card on trains covering the metro area, but trains into the suburbs and beyond will need additional tickets.

For more information about ticketing, fares, and timetables, visit the Public Transport Victoria website.

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Melbourne is collection of different neighborhoods, each one bringing their own unique character and charm into the city. To really get to know Melbourne, spend some time moving between the different suburbs and developing a real taste for the Melbourne way of life.

Melbourne CBD

The Central Business District (or CBD) is the beating heart of the city of Melbourne. From the open spaces, royal gardens, and docklands eateries to the high-end shopping opportunities in Bourke Street Mall and the Melbourne Centre, the city has plenty to see and do. With first class restaurants, cool cafes, boutiques, and old arcades on every corner, a day spent exploring the CBD is a day well spent.

If you want to step back in time, the Old Melbourne Gaol and the Melbourne Aquarium sit nestled among the modern commercial buildings, adding gravity to the district. Meanwhile, the museums and galleries of Federation Square add grandeur. Students, families , and travelers are often seen mixing with commuters on their lunch hours — the CBD is open to everybody.

Where to stay:

• The Langham
• Mercure Welcome

An inner suburb of Melbourne, St Kilda is a beachside neighborhood frequented by backpackers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors. From the glorious mansions of days gone by to the historic Sea Baths and wild rides at Luna Park, St Kilda has a traditional seaside resort feel about it.

Sip coffee on the sea front while you watch the yachts sail by, or sample some of the great cake shops to be found on Acland and Carlisle streets. When night falls, the area’s pubs and music venues fill up with loud music and late night revelers.

• The Blackman
• Melbourne Parkview

Carlton is well known for the wide selection of cafes and restaurants tucked within the Lygon Street Italian precinct, giving this area the local moniker of “Little Italy.” It is also home to the historic Melbourne General Cemetery and Princes Park, playground for Melbourne’s very own Carlton Football Club.

With plenty of leafy avenues and open spaces to enjoy, Carlton Gardens themselves contain the contemporary Melbourne Museum and the domed 19th Century Royal Exhibition Building that has World Heritage status. Carlton is vibrant and friendly, with a truly cosmopolitan feel.

• Carlton Terrace
• Rydges on Swanston
• Best Western Plus

Fitzroy is home to all things alternative in the city of Melbourne. If something is cool and kooky, you can find it here. Secondhand book stalls, vintage clothing stores, quirky boutiques, and independent retailers can all be seen on Brunswick Street. Or stop for a bite in any of the awe-inspiring vegan, vegetarian, or alternative cafes and restaurants dotting the area.

Fitzroy is renowned throughout the whole of Australia for its street art, music scene, and bohemian feel, and it is also the main home of Melbourne’s Fringe Festival . Come and enjoy cocktails with the cool creatives just a short bus ride from the CBD.

• Quest Royal Gardens
• Melbourne Metropole Central

Richmond is a multicultural suburb that welcomes residents from all over the world. It’s best known for Victoria Street, or “Little Saigon,” which is brimming with Asian grocery stores and eateries serving pho and bánh mì. If you’re looking to grab a bargain, the Bridge Road factory outlets offer great valuing clothing, furniture, and design stores.

Many of the historic old buildings that formerly filled the area have been given a new lease on life as cool bars and happening music venues. A little rough around the edges, Richmond has a young but edgy vibe.

• Andre’s Mews
• Richmond Hill Hotel

Williamstown

Williamstown is a highly desirable suburb to visit, and it gets pretty busy all year round. Located right on the waterfront, Williamstown offers a rare combination of open spaces, good facilities, and a wide variety of options all within easy reach of the CBD.

It has lots of residential areas, so Williamstown is a nice place to stop for coffee or ice cream, and the area has a safe, welcoming feel to it. Parking is a nightmare though, and everywhere from the beach to the street can be packed on weekends.

• Quest Williamstown
• Punthill Apartment Hotel

South Yarra

South Yarra is an upmarket suburb of the city that is popular with aspirational professionals and young families. Art deco apartments facing the Yarra are highly sought after, as are well-preserved mansions like the famous Como House.

The streets here are filled with swanky boutiques, fine restaurants, art galleries, and cocktail bars, and Toorak Road or Chapel Street are the places to see and be seen. The Royal Botanic Gardens meet South Yarra at its most northerly point, making them the perfect place to enjoy a jog or picnic away from the apartments and nearby streets.

• Oaks South Yarra
• Hotel Claremont

The Docklands area of the city has been heavily regenerated over the past 20 years and is now a contemporary development full of high-rise apartments and office blocks. Dominated by the colorful Melbourne Star Observation Wheel that keeps a watchful eye over proceedings, the area is now full of big-name shops and ample opportunities for waterside dining.

Pedestrianized plazas are family friendly, and there are public murals, sculptures, and light displays to enjoy. This area is mostly a resort destination, but has a family feel encouraged by visitors coming to see sporting events at Etihad Stadium or enjoy Harbor Town’s mini-golf and sports car simulators.

• Crowne Plaza
• Vibe Savoy Hotel
• The Great Southern Hotel

Situated on the waterfront, Southbank is renowned for great restaurants, amazing public art displays, and upmarket shopping opportunities. The crowds here are sophisticated and worldly; they come to enjoy cultural venues like the Malthouse Theatre (based in a restored brewery) and the state-of-the-art Melbourne Recital Centre’s classical concerts.

The Crown Casino Complex is also nearby, making it a popular part of the city for high rollers. If you want to ensure you’re caught looking super-cool, check out the many al fresco fine dining experiences on the promenade, or spend your night sipping craft beer in a cargo shed.

• Crown Metropol
• Travelodge Hotel Southbank
• Urban Central

For the upwardly mobile and culturally aware, Brunswick offers a laid-back multicultural vibe that is popular with the young, alternative crowd. With plenty of live music venues, upbeat pubs, and beer gardens to choose from, Brunswick is not just a night out: it’s a lifestyle. At the heart of the area lies the Sydney Road, with all its Middle Eastern and Mediterranean eateries, unusual stores, quirky cafes, and lounge bars. Consider this area hipster heaven for Melbourne.

• Best Western
• Victoria Hotel
• Dolma Hotel

Hot Tip: If you enjoy unique accommodations, check out these boutique hotels in Melbourne .

As with most large cities, there are lots of things to do in Melbourne. Here are 10 of the top attractions you definitely should try to see on your trip.

1. Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Opened in 1846 and spread over 89 acres, the Gardens offer a slice of paradise within the city, as well as providing a home to over 8,500 species of plants and the wildlife that coexist with them. For a relaxing day out and a real feel for Australia in times gone by, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria can’t be beaten.

Visit: Open daily from 7:30am to sunset. Entry is free.

Get There: Use tram stop 19, which is the Shrine of Remembrance/St Kilda Rd stop. Via bus, take Route 605 to Melbourne Observatory/Birdwood Avenue.

2. Eureka Skydeck 88

Ride the fastest elevator in the southern hemisphere to the 88 th floor for unparalleled views over Melbourne from the Eureka Skydeck 88 . If that doesn’t impress you, try The Edge , a glass-covered cube that dangles you 300 meters over the city. If you don’t want to enjoy the breathtaking views while suspended in a large transparent box, there is also a nice coffee shop for a more relaxed option.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am. The Skydeck costs $20 and The Edge costs $12.

Get There: Flinders Street train station is just a 5-minute walk over the Yarra River

3. Federation Square

Federation Square is a large mixed-use area in the heart of Melbourne. Packed with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars, it also includes shops selling everything from groceries to souvenirs to high-end fashion. The Square makes a great meeting place in the center of the city, and it’s also home to a wide variety of pop-up shows and exhibitions. Federation Square has a creative program that showcases talent all year round.

Visit: Open 24 hours a day

Get There: Flinders Street train station is the nearest stop; it’s practically right on top of the square.

4. Southbank and Arts Centre Melbourne

Instantly recognizable with its 162-meter spire, the Arts Centre opened in 1982 and is now home to Melbourne’s ballet, opera, theatre, and everything else artistic and creative. The centre often holds outdoor concerts set against the skyscrapers of downtown Melbourne, with lights that dance to the music. With plenty of free entertainment and a full program of events throughout the year, the Southbank and the Arts Centre are always worth a visit.

Visit: Open 7 days a week from early morning to late evening

Get There: Use tram stop 14, Arts Precinct

5. National Gallery of Victoria

Opened in 1968, the National Gallery of Victoria (or NGV) is Australia’s oldest, largest, and most visited art museum. It houses works from across the art world, including Picasso, Monet, Rubens, and many others. For art lovers, the NGV is a must-see.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Entry is free.

6. Melbourne Cricket Ground

Visit the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground , or “G” as it’s known locally, and take a tour of the impressive stadium, with its vast dressing rooms and adjoining function suites. Have a look to see what’s on at the G when you’re there, as it might be something you’d hate to miss — tickets for many events (including cinema screenings) are easily available.

Visit: Tours are 75 minutes and run between 10:00am and 3:00pm daily. Tickets start around $25, depending on the level of tour you choose.

Get There: Use the tram stop MCG – Hisense Arena/Melbourne Park

7. Melbourne Museum

Opened in 2000, the Melbourne Museum is the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. The sprawling complex contains various exhibits, from natural history to cultural displays as well as cinemas, cafes, an amphitheater, and much, much more.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and free for kids.

Get There: On the tram, take route 86 to the corner of Nicholson and Gertrude Streets. By bus, use the Rathdowne Street stop.

8. Captain Cook’s Cottage

Built in 1755, Captain Cook’s Cottage is the oldest building in Australia. It was transported brick by brick from England to Melbourne in 1934. Today, it serves as a historical and cultural center and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country.

Visit: Open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Tickets cost $6.50 for adults.

Get There: By tram, use route 48 and get off at Wellington Parade

9. Shrine of Remembrance

Built in 1934, the Shrine of Remembrance is the Victoria state memorial to Australians who served in global conflicts throughout the nation’s history. Inspired by classical architecture, the Shrine was designed and built by WWI veterans. Special exhibitions and events are held throughout the year, providing an ever-changing experience.

Visit: Tours available daily from the visitor’s center at 11:00am and 12:45pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

Get There: Take tram route 21 to Dallas Brooks Dr/Domain Rd

10. Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

An easy one to spot, the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel stands next to the river and affords amazing views over the city. Flights last 30 minutes and can range from a simple sightseeing trip to a champagne trip, or even a wedding in your own private cabin.

Visit: Open 11:00am to 7:00pm (May to August); 11:00am to 10:00pm (September to April). Prices start at $16.50.

Get There: Take the tram route 86, Bourne Street

If you’re looking to get off the tourist trail and want some quirkiness from your visit, here are 10 more things you can do with your time in Melbourne.

1. Kryal Castle

Australia’s only medieval castle, Kryal Castle is home to brave knights, dueling warriors, dragons, mysteries, mazes, and plenty of medieval adventures. The kids will absolutely love it, and once they’ve slayed the dragon and conquered the maze, they can even have a go at archery.

Visit: Open Saturday & Sunday from 10:00am to 4:00pm, as well as school and public holidays. Tickets start at $35.

Get There: Grab the train to Ballarat Station.

2. Cat Cafe

What could be better than enjoying a latte in a homely cafe surrounded by dozens of friendly, happy, rescue cats? Melbourne’s Cat Cafe (the first one in Australia) does just that. Operating primarily as a cat rescue and a cafe second, the kitties are the priority and are spoilt rotten. You’ll get spoilt too, with a steaming hot cup of coffee and a slice of homemade cake.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm. 1-hour sessions cost $12 and must be booked in advance.

Get There: Take the tram to Melbourne Central on Elizabeth Street. The cafe is nearby in Guildford Lane.

3. Crafternoon

The perfect place to keep the kids happy, Crafternoon is a cafe where you can eat and create all under one roof. Choose from creating with playdough, painting, badge making, or a heap of other educational and fun sessions to keep the children entertained while you enjoy high tea. It’s not just for little people either — adults can also try their hand at something crafty while there.

Visit: Open daily (except Thursdays) from 8:30am to 4:00pm

Get There: Located on Sydney Road in Brunswick

4. Guided Boat Tours at the Royal Botanic Gardens

Capture the historic beauty of the gardens from a watery vantage point. Jump on board a wooden punt and enjoy a serene cruise around the islands dotted throughout this picturesque ornamental lake. Your own personal guide will talk you through the Gardens’ history, flora, and fauna. Perfect for stress-free sightseeing!

Visit: Guided boat tours run from 10:15am-5:00pm (September to May) and 11:00am-3:30pm (June to August). Tickets start at $25 per person.

5. Make Your Own Gin

At Bass & Flinders Distillery , you can make your very own gin. First you’ll take a masterclass in gin distillation, and by the end of the tour will have created not 1 but 2 unique flavors of gin. You’ll get a large bottle of it to take with you afterward, and the distillery will keep your recipe on file so you can order more when you run out (or decide to gift your creation to friends).

Visit: Book 2-hour classes in advance for $140 per person

Get There: The distillery is located on Red Hill Road in Red Hill

6. Western Water Treatment Plant

If heavy machinery and large civic operations are your thing, a tour around the Western Water Treatment Plant will show how the plant works and let you experience the scale and environmental importance of the site. Take a guided tour around the treatment rooms and processes to learn how energy is captured from methane gas and how the nearby wetlands are looked after.

Visit: Tickets start at $12 for adults, and tours must be pre-booked

Get There: The plant is located in Werribee and easily accessible by car

7. Eerie Ghost Tours

If you like all things ghost related, Eerie Tours offers ghost tours around some unique sites, including a cemetery, a sprawling old asylum, and an unused gaol. There are talks and tales along the way, and if you’re lucky you might come face-to-supernatural-face with a ghost or 2. Not for the faint-hearted!

Visit: Prices start at $27.50 per adult (less for kids)

Get There: Tours are based in Ararat, Ballarat, and the Gold Rush Cemetery, and must be pre-booked

8. Join the Circus

You no longer have to run away to join the circus; now you can do it while you’re here in Melbourne! Circus Oz offers classes in all things circus, including trapeze, hula hoops, German Wheels, acrobatics, flying, and even tumbling. They offer classes for both children and adults, and you can also book tickets to see one of their shows. Circus Oz does not use animals in their performances.

Visit: Prices vary depending on the course

Get There: Based in Johnston Street, Collingwood. Take the 86 tram to Johnston St/Smith St.

9. Neighbours Tour

For fans of the long-running show, the Neighbours Tour is a once in a lifetime opportunity. You will be taken on a guided tour of the Ramsey Street set, as well as other key locations used in the show. There’s a very strong chance you’ll meet one of the stars on your tour, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos and learn exclusive story details too.

Visit: Open Monday to Friday. Prices start at $59 per adult.

10. The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant

The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant is an authentic Colonial tramcar that has been transformed into a 5-star dining experience. The beautiful wagons cruise through the city streets as you enjoy freshly prepared cuisine surrounded by Victorian history and opulence. The restaurant will arrive back at the departure point at the end of the evening, and bookings can be in short supply.

Visit: Open daily year-round. Prices start at $90 per person, including all food and drink.

Get There: Take the tram to stop 125 Normanby Road

Melbourne offers some of the best beaches in Australia  within just a few miles of the central metro area. If you’re looking to make the most of the coast, here are the top 5 best beaches in and around the city.

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is an ideal spot for swimmers, sunbathers, and surfers alike, set against a backdrop of over 80 brightly colored beach boxes. The suburb itself is one of the most sought after parts of the city, and it’s located just to the east of the CBD. You can reach Brighton Beach easily by car or bus, and the nearest station is Brighton Beach.

With plenty of gourmet food outlets and contemporary retailers, you can spend your days on the long stretches of soft sandy beaches surrounding Brighton and Port Phillip, and then have a cool drink in the shade in one of the most popular and upmarket parts of Melbourne.

St Kilda Beach

You won’t find many waves at St. Kilda Beach, but you’ll still find plenty to enjoy. A hotspot for both tourists and locals, St Kilda Beach is a picturesque stretch of soft white sand that is always popular with photographers and film crews. Kite surfers, paddle-boarders, cyclists, and runners love the long straight palm-covered stretches, and there is more than enough beach to go around, no matter how busy it gets.

This beach is also really close to the cafes and restaurants on Acland Street that are perfect for a break from the sun. You can even make the beach your final destination after a busy day racing around the attractions at Luna Park. The best way to reach St Kilda Beach is by hopping on the 3a, 16, or 96 tram from the CBD.

Williamstown Beach

Known locally as “Willy Beach,” this small family-friendly beach is a hit with locals and tourists as well. Being in a popular residential area just a stone’s throw from the city, you can while away the day admiring the sea in front of you, or take in the stunning views of Melbourne just behind you.

This beach is also home to the historic Gem Pier, which offers spectacular unobscured views of the city skyline and looks resplendent thrust out to sea. With plenty of local cafes, shops, and other attractions, Willy Beach is great for kids of all ages. The nearest station is Williamstown Beach.

Mordialloc Beach

If you want a trip to a beach with more than just sand and water to keep you entertained, “Mordi” beach could be just what you’re looking for. With its very own Windows on the Bay restaurant, a children’s playground, and dedicated BBQ and picnic areas, Mordi Beach is a big hit for families, groups, and social gatherings. There is also a bike path that runs all the way back to the suburb of Mentone if you fancy sightseeing on 2 wheels.

Situated in the southern suburb of Kingston, Mordi beach can get very busy during weekends and holidays, so head down there during the week if you want the beach to yourselves. Mordialloc Station is closest, but it’s still about a 1.5 kilometer walk away from the main beach areas.

Elwood Beach

Elwood Beach is a swimming beach offering excellent facilities and long stretches of soft clean sand. It is close to local cafes and restaurants and only about a 20 minute drive from the city. For these reasons, Elwood Beach is very popular among families with young children, giving it a safe, family vibe all year long.

This beach makes the perfect base from which to explore the area’s other beaches, since you can walk around the bay to Brighton Beach or even St Kilda. Elwood offers a rare no boating zone, which is great for swimmers. Sadly, there are no local train or tram stations nearby, but you can easily reach Elwood Beach by car or bus.

Melbourne is renowned for its exceptional bar scene, so it’s tough to create a top 10 list. However, we’re big fans of quirky hidden bars, so here are some you should check out when in the city.

1. Jungle Boy, 96 Chapel Street, Windsor

To find this hidden cocktail bar, you first need to locate Boston Sub, a tiny American sandwich shop in Chapel Street. Head inside and make for the cooler door. Go through, and you’ll step into the tropical surroundings of one of the funkiest cocktail lounges in Melbourne. Plant yourself at the bar and start on the spritzers before getting sucked into the tiki-themed cocktails, each more inventive than the last. Jungle Boy also serves food.

Visit: Open daily from 5:00pm until 1:00am. The nearest tram stop is Windsor.

2. Eau De Vie, 1 Malthouse Lane, Melbourne

Skillfully tucked away down Malthouse Lane, you’ll need to keep yours eyes out for an unsigned service entrance and head inside. You’ll know you’re in the right place if you’re not chased out by some angry chefs, but instead welcomed by waistcoated greeters fresh out of 1920s Chicago.

Eau De Vie is a Prohibition-themed bar channeling all very best parts of vintage Americana. You can sit at the bar or share a private booth and get started on the best cocktails in the country. Behind a bookcase is another secret area, the Whiskey Room, that’s a whole new level of whisky drinking awesome.

Visit: Open Monday-Thursday 5:00pm to 1:00am, Friday & Saturday 4:00pm to 1:00am, and Sunday 4:00pm to 11:00pm. No Tommy guns please!

3. Hihou, 1 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

On Flinders Lane near the corner of Spring Street lies this amazing Japanese bar and restaurant. Keep your eyes peeled though, as the entrance is really easy to miss. Hihou offers a superb variety of worldwide fare all given a unique Japanese twist. There is also a wonderful cocktail menu on offer too.

If you choose to dine upstairs, you’ll be asked to remove your shoes as you’ll be sitting at traditional Japanese low tables. If you’re dining downstairs, usual rules apply.

Visit: Open Monday-Wednesday 5:00pm to midnight, Thursday-Saturday 5:00pm to 1:00am. Nearest station is Flinders Street.

4. Sister Bella, 22 Drewery Place, Melbourne

The ultimate in stripped-down hidden bar chic, this place is not easily spotted when passing by. Should you make the effort, though, you will be rewarded with a visit to one of the quirkiest bars in the city. Word of mouth advertising is all they’ve used here, so everyone else you see will have explored their way inside too.

The drinks menu is refreshingly basic, which fits the décor perfectly. A tattooed and cool staff will make you feel right at home as you take a seat on the recycled furniture to take in the surroundings.

Visit: Bar open Monday-Saturday 4:00pm to 1:00am, Sunday 4:00pm to 11:00pm

5. Murmur, 17 Warburton Lane, Melbourne

Melbourne’s only dedicated piano bar, Murmur is a hot spot with a drinks menu thicker than an old phone book. Serving fine drinks and cocktails from around the world as well as amazing food, this relaxing bar offers an oasis from the bustling city outside. A great place to impress that special someone in your life (or simply indulge your inner connoisseur), Murmur will forever raise your food and drink standards. It’s 1920s chic for the 21st century.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 4:30pm to 11:00pm, Saturday & Sunday 4:30pm to 1:00am

6. Loch & Key, 34 Franklin Street, Melbourne

The first thing you need to do here is find the Captain Melville Bar in Franklin Street. Once inside, look for a bookcase that gives way to a rickety staircase. This leads you to Loch & Key , a semi-secret but fabulous bar and lounge. You can remain fed and watered here until the sun comes up, all accompanied by 70s funk and electronica.

The food is experimental and delicious, but it’s the drinks you’ll come here for. Loch & Key’s bar staff will serve you anything from a cold beer to an outlandish cocktail — including everything in between.

Visit: Open Sunday-Thursday 5:00pm to 5:00am, Friday & Saturday 5:00pm to 7:00am

7. Marrakech, 25 Bank Place, Melbourne

Hidden underneath Bank Place, Marrakech is a Moroccan-themed bar that offers the latest R&B and soul music in sumptuous surroundings. Grab a comfortable booth and soak up the softly-lit décor while sipping fine cocktails and enjoying delectable cuisine.

They also have Shisha pipes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the Moroccan vibe. There are always special offers available, and you can find out about these on the Marrakech website before you go.

Visit: Open Monday-Thursday 11:00am till late, Friday 3:00pm to 3:00am, Saturday 6:00pm to 3:00am, Sunday 6:00pm till late

8. Bartronica, Basement, 335 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Bartronica is Melbourne’s first vintage arcade bar. Indulge your 80s inner child with this hidden bar that’s packed with retro arcade games. Once you’ve found the place, grab a beer or one of the many weird and wonderful cocktails and get on a classic machine like Mortal Kombat, Sonic, or Mario Kart. When you need to get some air, you can head out into the beer garden, which has been set up to feel like it’s in downtown New York .

Visit: Open Wednesday-Saturday 4:00pm to 1:00am

9. The Alchemist, 361 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

This unusual drinking spot is decked out like an alchemist’s lab: everything’s covered in gold and festooned with old flasks and lab equipment. The Alchemist has an extensive wine list and probably one of the best and most experimental cocktail menus in Australia. Mixologists here can make anything you can think of — they’re as good at turning booze into cocktails as an alchemist is at turning lead into gold. Tapas-style food fills the gaps while live jazz on Tuesdays and Thursdays soothes the ears.

Visit: Open Sunday & Wednesday 3:00pm to 11:00pm, Thursday-Saturday 3:00pm to 1:00am

10. Pizza Pizza Pizza, 16 Meyers Place, Melbourne

This is a popular and very busy pizza place that does delicious New York-style pizzas with a variety of toppings. What’s that got to do with this list? Well, if you ask a member of staff to see the “special menu,” you’ll be taken through a secret door to a hidden retro-inspired bar out back! Here you can still enjoy delicious pizza, but you can also add a few cocktails to your order to help wash it down a bit better.

Visit: Pizza Pizza Pizza is open Tuesday-Thursday 12:00pm to 11:00pm, Friday 12:00pm to 3:00am, Saturday 6:00pm to 3:00am

Breakfast is the best meal of the day in Melbourne, and with so many great eateries to choose from you’ll never go hungry! Here are our top picks.

1. The Kettle Black, 50 Albert Road, South Melbourne

One of the finest cafes in the city, The Kettle Black offers amazing dishes at great prices that will set you up for the day ahead.

Need to blow the cobwebs away from the night before? They also have wine, beer, and a range of breakfast cocktails to go with their delicious menu. This place also serves a mean cup of coffee.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends and public holidays 8:00am to 4:00pm

2. Top Paddock, 658 Church Street, Richmond

Set in a beautiful location, this trendy cafe serves up some gorgeous dishes at reasonable prices. The menu is healthy and varied, and it’s accompanied by a fine range of beers and wines (as well as all-day cocktails).

Top Paddock is like a traditional cafe and kitchen, only much better. It’s the perfect spot for a quick breakfast or a long coffee break, whether you’re meeting friends or need a quiet moment to yourself.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm. The kitchen closes at 3:00pm though, so don’t dawdle!

3. Rudimentary, 16-18 Leeds Street, Footscray

Shipping container bars are getting popular all over the world, and now you can visit one in up-and-coming Footscray. Rudimentary offers breakfasts ranging from light bites to a pork belly extravaganza, none of which will seriously dent your wallet.

Add to this fantastic coffees and other drinks, and you can easily lose a whole day in this amazing venue. Rudimentary is also a community space that aims to contribute to the evolution of a vibrant part of Melbourne, as well as break the current trend of high rise developments.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:30am to 3:30pm, weekends 8:00am to 3:30pm

4. Bowery to Williamsburg, 16 Oliver Lane, Melbourne

This American diner is styled after a New York subway station, complete with signage and bustle! The amazing menu fuses hearty American classics with unique Melbourne touches for some unbeatable dishes. From BBQ bacon cheeseburgers to pastrami sandwiches and key lime pie, you can find it all at Bowery to Williamsburg .

They also do the best American breakfast in town with pretzels, bagels, waffles, and eggs all fresh every morning. You can join the other diners in this deli-style eatery, or have your food wrapped to go.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:30am to 3:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 3:30pm. Closed on public holidays.

5. Auction Rooms, 103-107 Errol Street, North Melbourne

This 150-year-old auction house certainly looks its age from the outside. Venture in, however, and you’ll be greeted with industrial steel and concrete, as well as the buzz of contented diners.

The Auction Rooms serves food from the Middle East, Mexico, and America and does a great selection of all-day breakfast, eggs, and sides. There are also cocktails, beers, and wine, as well as Small Batch coffee (made by the original owner who started the Small Batch company).

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 5:00pm, weekends 7:30am to 5:00pm

6. The Grain Store, 517 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Offering German, French, and Mediterranean-infused cuisine, The Grain Store cooks healthy meals in a bright space with industrial looks and a homely vibe. The daily breakfast menu includes plenty of healthy fare as well as more hearty fodder.

Their weekend brunch menu is absolutely stunning and available until 3:00pm. You can choose from bacon, eggs, salmon, or even pork belly, among other mouthwateringly lazy breakfast suggestions.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm

7. The Farm Cafe, 18 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford

What started out as a trestle table and coffee machine has evolved into an excellent rustic eatery, offering hearty country foods as well as healthy lighter options. Their breakfasts are made with love and flavor, and the menu includes a variety of fresh local fare: homemade sausage rolls, granola, and a gut-busting farmers breakfast. Located on an actual farm, The Farm Cafe is the perfect spot for weekend bunches with the kids.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 9:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 9:00am to 5:00pm

8. Cafe Ora, 156 Parkington Street, Kew

Hidden away in a tired parade of shops is this gem of an owner-operated cafe. Serving fine coffees to suit all tastes, they also offer fresh, healthy food made with herbs and spices grown out back. Breakfasts come in all shapes and sizes, alongside first-class coffee and ice cream too.

Visit: Open Tuesday-Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm

9. Lights in the Attic, 38 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East

This suburban cafe is well worth hunting down, as it offers an Asian infusion on traditional breakfast choices. Try the salmon scrambled eggs with Benito flakes or the Nourish bowl, a superfood fusion dish that will provide all the energy you’ll need for the day. Lights In The Attic also serves fresh fruit, eggs, and steaming hot coffee.

Visit: Open Monday-Friday 7:30am to 3:30pm, Saturday 8:00am to 3:00pm, Sunday 8:30am to 3:00pm

10. Mr Hendricks, 469 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn

This family-run cafe offers French-inspired foods created by 2 chef brothers with a wealth of culinary experience. The menu is loaded with amazing dishes that wouldn’t be out of place in a top-end international restaurant.

With all-day breakfasts, a breakfast cassoulet, crispy eggs, and even vanilla brioche toast, these boys are really raising the breakfast game in Balwyn! Oh, and in case you were wondering, Mr. Hendricks is the name of the family dog.

Visit: Open Tuesday-Friday 7:30am to 4:00pm, weekends 8:00am to 4:00pm

If you thought only cities like London and Seattle had cool coffee covered, think again. Melbourne has one the most incredible coffee cultures in the world. Every neighborhood brings something new to the mix, making it irresistible to stop and watch the world go by while sipping on the black stuff in the mild Melbourne climate.

Want to know where to find the very best coffee in the city? Check out these top 5 places for coffee lovers.

1. Market Lane

Market Lane is a specialty coffee roastery, cafe, and retailer born and based in Melbourne. With 5 shops throughout the city, they roast their own beans at their Parham Market roastery and are dedicated to sourcing some of the finest coffee from around the world.

Owner Fleur Studd and chief roaster Jason Scheltus were both big names in the Melbourne coffee scene in their own right. Together, they created a coffee company that is focused on not just providing fantastic tasting coffee, but also on educating every customer about the journey of the humble bean.

2. Proud Mary

Proud Mary is a specialty coffee roaster, cafe, coffee educator, and retailer that is dedicated to producing exceptional coffee, and who takes their roasting very seriously. So much so that you can visit their “Aunty Peg’s” roastery to learn all about the beans, brew your own gear at the shop, or enjoy a one-to-one brew from your own personal barista.

Nolan Hirte, the founder of Proud Mary, is now recognized as a pioneer of the specialty coffee industry in Australia. Having come face to face with the harsh reality of coffee farming during a trip to Bali , he decided to find a way to bridge the gap between farmer and consumer, and shortly afterward Proud Mary was born. Based in Collingwood, the cafe has a vibe that is perfect for locals who enjoy living in one of the quirkiest suburbs of the city.

3. Code Black

The guys and gals at Code Black describe their establishment as “a laboratory, a workshop, and a hub for connoisseurs of the dark art and science of coffee.” We can assume from this statement that they take their coffee very seriously indeed. Located in the trendy suburb of Brunswick, Code Black has created a coffee shop that perfectly matches the interests and inspirations of the local alternative music scene.

If the coffee they brew isn’t quite strong enough for your dark soul, they’ve also launched their very own brand of hot chocolate. Cocoa Jackson consists of a beautiful Venezuelan to give you a dark chocolate kick. Quirky, cool, and unashamedly dark…Code Black is probably just named after the way they take their coffee.

4. Industry Beans

When brothers Steve and Trevor Simmons set up in a tiny garage and began roasting coffee for themselves, they always had their eyes on bigger things. Now situated in a former warehouse in the super cool suburb of Fitzroy, the boys at Industry Beans are now pouring house blends for all to enjoy.

With a strong emphasis on sourcing the very best specialty-grade green coffee from across the globe, the team at Industry Beans creatively applies scientific methodology to the coffee roasting process. They can reveal the complex and distinctive qualities of each single origin coffee, which in the end, makes for a really great cup!

5. Patricia Coffee Brewers

In-house, artisanal coffee flows aplenty at this trendy standing-room-only spot. With their own blends ground on-site, Patricia Coffee Brewers offers a simple choice of black, white, or filter coffees for all to enjoy.

A joint venture between Bowen Holden and Pip Heath, Patricia Coffee Brewers is a quality-driven coffee bar in the heart of Melbourne. Their exceptional service meets carefully crafted coffees, and everyone who steps inside their tiny storefront knows they’re in for a coffee-shaped treat.

Melbourne offers some of the greatest shopping experiences in Australia. From designer boutiques to vintages markets, you can find it all within the city center itself. You may have heard of Chadstone, the largest shopping center in Australia but here are ten others.

1. Emporium Melbourne

The Emporium is the largest Australian luxury shopping area, offering a wealth of designer clothing stores and boutiques as well as over 30 food outlets. Situated on the corner of Lonsdale and Swanston streets, the complex also features large Myer and David Jones department stores.

With 225 stores providing a fusion of fashion, culture, food, and art all located in the central CBD, the Emporium is frequented by locals, commuters, and visitors alike.

Visit: Open from 10:00am until 7:00pm (9:00pm on Thursday and Fridays), and easily accessed by public transport

2. Queen Victoria Village (QV)

Known locally as the “QV,” the Queen Victoria Village is home to both Australian and international designer stores, a wide variety of restaurants, and some of Melbourne’s finest retailers. Occupying an entire city block, the QV is famous for its unique open-air design, with 120 stores running down each of its laneways.

There is also an international food court located in the basement of the building. The retail venue plays host to a wide variety of lifestyle events and shows throughout the year.

Visit: Open daily from 10:00am to as late as 9:00pm on some days.

Get There: Offers over 1,500 car parking spaces, but can also be reached by any tram or bus line.

3. Melbourne Central

The Melbourne Central shopping center is a large modern complex featuring shops, offices, and access to the city loop underground railway below. Refurbished in 2005, the complex now offers a wide range of shops and food stalls that are well-suited to their central location within the CBD.

Almost as well-known as some of the shops are the architectural delights on display. Coop’s Shot Tower, The Marionette Watch, The Glass Cone, and The Vertical Cone have all been built over the years to add interest to this city center retail and commercial complex.

4. Bourke Street Mall

Bourke Street is one of the main thoroughfares in Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD). It is well-regarded as a hub of entertainment and shopping in the city, and is a popular tourist destination. In recent years the area has become pedestrianized and is only accessible on foot or by tram, allowing visitors to explore the area at their leisure.

If you are looking to enjoy the full city center experience, Bourke Street has everything you need: great shops, fine food, and plenty of the authentic Melbourne atmosphere.

Get There: Nearest stations are Flagstaff Station or Southern Cross Station. Trams 86, 95, and 96 all stop in Bourke Street itself.

5. DFO South Wharf

Centrally located in Melbourne CBD and next to the popular upmarket Docklands suburb, DFO South Wharf is a factory outlet complex offering well-known branded goods for majorly discounted prices. Similar to the outlet stores normally found on the outskirts of major towns and cities, the DFO South Wharf offers all the fun of bargain hunting right in the city center. It also hosts a variety of cafes, bistros, and restaurants so you can enjoy a whole day’s shopping under one roof.

Visit: Stores open from 10:00am until 6:00pm every day, except Friday when they offer late night shopping until 9:00pm.

Get There: Nearest train station is Southern Cross, which is about a 15-minute walk away. Or, hop on any trams traveling along Swanston Street and St Kilda Road that stop at Federation Square, or the corner of Flinders and Swanston streets.

6. Prahran Market

Known as “the food lovers market,” Prahran Market offers a wide range of high quality fruit and vegetables, certified organic produce, sustainable seafood, free-range meat and poultry, and more. Having been on the same Commercial Road site for over 125 years, the market offers a variety of stalls and shops selling every type of food you could imagine. The market also has a dedicated Market Square where there are community performances, cafes, and a children’s playground.

Visit: Located in the suburb of South Yarra. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 7:00am until 5:00pm, and 10:00am until 3:00pm on Sundays. Closed Mondays and Wednesdays.

7. Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is a major landmark in Melbourne and the largest open air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Standing at around 7 hectares, the marketplace is both historically and architecturally important (and is actually listed on the Victorian Heritage Register). Visitors can expect to find a wide variety of fresh, high-quality produce and specialty shopping including clothing, art, and interior goods.

Visit: Open from 6:00am most mornings, closing times vary depending on the day. Night market during the summer months on Wednesdays from 5:00pm until 10:00pm. Closed Mondays.

Get There: Located between Queen Street, Victoria Street, and Peel Street, the market can be reached by train using either Melbourne Central or Flagstaff Stations. Alternatively, take tram 19, 57, or 59 to stop 7, Elizabeth St (or tram 58 to stop 9, Peel St).

8. The Rose Street Market

Rose Street Market is an artists’ market where everything on sale is handmade. Widely known as a platform for emerging artists, it is a great place to find one-off pieces of art, unusual fashion, unique jewelry, and work from local photographers.

Occupying an abandoned yard in Fitzroy, Rose Street Market is the creative hub of the CBD and the city’s most important home for independent art and design.

Visit: Market held every Saturday from 11:00am until 5:00pm.

Get There: Best reached by tram using the 96 from Bourke St (get off at stop 16) or 11 from Collins St. (get off at stop 17).

9. Fitzroy Market

The Fitzroy Market  is a community project that has been running since 2010. Selling a variety of secondhand clothing and goods, handmade items, and homemade food, the market is put on by the community and benefits partner organizations in education. There is always a welcoming atmosphere, lots of live music and entertainment, and a real neighborly spirit, making the market a lovely place to be on a sunny Saturday in Melbourne.

Visit: Market held on the 3rd Saturday of every month from 10:00am until 3:00pm at the Fitzroy Primary School.

Get There: Take trams 86 (travel to Smith St), 96 (travel down Nicholson St), and 112 (travel down Brunswick St). Or, buses 200, 201, 203, 205, and 207 all stop at nearby Johnston Street.

10. Camberwell Market

Camberwell Sunday Market is Melbourne’s premier vintage market, and it offers a wide range of secondhand goods and crafts. It sells anything retro and is the perfect place to find antiques, collectables, vintage clothing, handmade crafts, vinyl, musical instruments, knick knacks, and much more.

Visit: Market held every Sunday morning (except the Sunday before Christmas Day) from 7:30am until 12:30pm.

Get There: Take the train to Camberwell Railway Station, or bus routes 612 or 285 to Camberwell Junction.

Visiting foreign lands can be an expensive business, especially if you’re planning to spend any time in a major city. While Melbourne may not be the most expensive destination in the world, it certainly isn’t the cheapest either. Try these top hacks to help your vacation budget stretch a little further.

1. Explore Your New Surroundings

Getting your bearings needn’t be boring. Melbourne is a wonderful city to just roam around and explore for free. Take in the city center and browse the streets as you get a feel for that authentic Melbourne atmosphere. When you run out of steam, there are plenty of parks and green spaces to relax in.

2. Go to the Museums

While away the hours taking in the free galleries and museums dotted thought the city. The National Gallery Of Victoria has a vast collection of art from all around the world, and The Australian Centre for The Moving Image offers incredible interactive exhibits.

3. Take a Trip to the Beach

Melbourne may be a vibrant and bustling city, but you’re never more than a few miles away from the nearest beach. Australia has some of the finest beaches in the world, and the coast surrounding Melbourne is certainly no exception. Enjoy free sunbathing, surfing, or swimming at any of the beaches surrounding the city.

4. Soak up the Arts Scene

Melbourne is a very creative city full of musicians, magicians, buskers, breakdancers, and much more. You can catch any number of free outdoor performances all across the CBD and into the suburbs. Bourke Street, Southbank, and Federation Square are virtually guaranteed to have something going on nearly every day of the week.

5. Visit the Markets

Melbourne is full of amazing markets, and you’ll be able to find one that offers everything you need on pretty much any day of the week. From the vast and historical Queen Victoria Market to the foodies’ favorites at Prahran Market and everything in between, you will never be short of a bargain or 2.

6. Shop the Outlets

DFO South Wharf is a shopping complex dedicated to designer bargains. With 3 levels of shops and hundreds of outlets to choose from (as well as cafes and eateries), a visit to the DFO is a great day out.

7. Eat Away From the Riverside

Those waterside views will definitely add extra bucks to your brunch. If you want to enjoy fine food for less money, eat away from the docklands, Bourke Street, and main streets when you can.

8. Shop Around for Somewhere to Stay

Like many big cities, staying in the main tourist districts can be expensive. In Melbourne, even the hostels can be on the pricey side, so check out backpacker groups on social media for the best deals, or see if you can find an apartment share for your time in the city.

9. Go to a Gig

The north side of the city is famous for its live music venues and bohemian atmosphere. Dance the night away with free or cheap tickets to any of the area’s many music bars including the Tote , the Evelyn , Bar Open , or the Night Cat .

10. Eat the Oysters

If you want to live the high life without paying a high price, try eating oysters with a glass of Prosecco while overlooking the Yarra at Arbory Bar and Eatery , Melbourne’s longest and most affordable bar.

11. Drink Coffee

Melbourne has an uber cool cafe culture, and you can quickly become a complete coffee expert by enjoying free coffee tasting sessions at many of the first-class coffee shops and roasters throughout the city.

12. See the City From the Water

If you want to get a different perspective of the city, hop on a ferry from Southgate to Williamstown and explore the suburb’s historic waterfront, as well as the famous Castlemaine warship for just $18.

13. Make Use of the Visitor Shuttle

The visitor shuttle stops at 13 points around the city and offers an audio commentary for your journey. Learn about the history of Melbourne at your leisure, and jump on and off as you please.

14. Workout for Free

Princes Park is home to the Carlton football club and is a stunning place to go for a run, bike ride, or even a workout in the outdoor gyms during your stay in Melbourne.

15. Work the Transport System

Travel is not hugely expensive in Melbourne, but you can save money by taking advantage of the free trams, free off-peak travel, and the easy walking distance between many of the tourist areas.

Want to impress your hosts when you finally touch down in Melbourne? Wow them with your superior knowledge using these fun facts.

1. Traffic Management

Melbourne is home to the first ever traffic lights installed in Australia. They were first tested in mid-1928 at the intersection of Swanston and Flinders streets to address the growing problems of simultaneous vehicle control and increased pedestrian traffic.

2. Chocolate History

Chocolate lovers have a lot to thank Melbourne for. Chocolate makers MacRobertson’s Steam Confectionery Works, located in the suburb of Fitzroy, were the original inventors of the Cherry Ripe in 1924, the Crunchie in 1929, and the Freddo Frog in 1930. They continued to produce these for many years until the company was sold to Cadbury in 1967.

3. Name Change

Melbourne was originally named Batmania after one of the city’s founding fathers, John Batman. Upon discovering the first settlements of central Melbourne, he declared the location as being a “nice place for a village.” The name never stuck, however, and the land would later be christened Melbourne, after Lord Melbourne, then the Prime Minister of Britain.

4. Heating Up

Melbourne can get pretty hot. As you would expect anywhere on the Australian continent, the sun is almost always shining on this city. Sometimes, though, it gets a little too hot to handle: the maximum temperature ever recorded in Melbourne was 115.5 degrees Fahrenheit (46.4 degrees Celsius) in 2009!

5. Big Window

The world’s largest stained-glass ceiling is located in Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria. It was designed by Australian artist Leonard French, and his geometric masterpiece is known as the Persian Rug of Light. It measures a whopping 60.9 x 15.24 meters and features 224 tiles in a kaleidoscope of colors.

6. Feeling Foxy

According to the RSPCA, Melbourne is officially the fox capital of the world. There are apparently anywhere between 6 and 23 foxes per square kilometer in the urban area of the city. Despite these numbers, it’s still quite rare to see one, and the urban fox is very much revered.

7. Bath Time

Melbourne used to be very well known for its public bathing. Residents would happily jump in the Yarra, the sea, and the City Baths to keep cool on hot sunny days. Such was its popularity that there are still more than 1,800 bathing boxes scattered around the city’s beaches.

8. Fancy a Beer

The now world-famous Australian beer Fosters was first brewed in Melbourne in 1888. Even thought it was originally brewed by American brothers William and Ralph Foster right here in the city, it went on to become synonymous with the “Aussie” love for a nice cold tinnie.

9. One for Sport Lovers

As a city, Melbourne is utterly obsessed with sports and is the only city in the world to have 5 international standard sporting facilities on the fringe of its central business district: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Docklands Stadium, Rod Laver Arena, Hisense Arena, and Olympic Park in Melbourne Park.

10. No Down Time

Keeping with the sports theme, one of Australia’s most famous games, Australian Rules Football was invented in Melbourne in 1858 by Tom Wills and his friends as a way to keep cricketers fit during the off-season.

You can’t come all the way to Melbourne and not explore at least a little bit more of Victoria. Even if you don’t stay long, try and take at least one of these awesome day trips away from the city during your visit.

1. Great Ocean Road, Victoria

As one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, a trip along the Great Ocean Road is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Stretching from the towns of Torquay to Nelson, the 249-mile roadway winds alongside the wild and windswept Southern Ocean coast of Victoria.

The road will take you through Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, the Great Otway National Park, and the Shipwreck Coast as you explore local towns and villages, stopping at iconic locations along the way.

The Great Ocean Road is approximately 2 hours south from Melbourne CBD, and you can spend days traveling its entire length at your leisure.

2. Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is packed with award-winning vineyards, tasting rooms, and wineries. Many visitors to the region come to learn about the fermentation process and join in with an organized wine tour. There are many to choose from throughout the region, from a simple half-day tour to a full week away in a winery.

Many of the vineyards have been transformed into exclusive estates, offering spas, restaurants, and even rooms for visitors to stay with them overnight. Prices will vary depending on the tour and location you choose, but half-day private tours start at around $50 per person, while overnight stays will obviously be much more. Find out about tours in the region at Yarra Valley Wine .

3. Mornington Peninsula

Just an hour outside Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula offers miles of stunning coastlines and pretty seaside towns, as well as local wineries and impressive restaurants.

Go cycling, horseback riding, golfing, surfing, or visit a winery or a national park…or just relax on the beach. The Mornington Peninsula has something for everyone. You can drive there from Melbourne using the M1 and the Western Port Highway. If you want to take the train, you can connect from Frankston through Hastings to Stony Point on Westernport Bay. Or if you would rather go by bus, they travel from Melbourne to all areas, and local bus routes operate around each Mornington Peninsula village.

4. Phillip Island

Phillip Island is a very popular day trip destination from Melbourne. You can watch the Penguin Parade from Summerland beach, or spot the fur seals gathering off the coast from The Nobbies Centre . If you’d rather, you could simply stop and spend some time with the koalas at the Conservation Centre . The island is also well known for motorcycle and car racing events held at the Phillip Island Circuit if man-made entertainment is more your thing.

Around a 90-minute drive away from Melbourne, you can reach the island by car using the M1, the M420, and the A420. Private coach trips from the city are also available, or you may be able to access the island using the V-Line train service . Tickets for the attractions vary in price depending on what you wish to see. General viewing tickets for the Penguin Parade are $25 per adult, whereas a guided ranger tour of the parks could be as much as $90 per adult. Find prices, times, and park information at the Phillip Island website .

5. Dandenong Ranges

The Dandenong Ranges make for a great day out away from hustle and bustle of the city. Soaring forests, fern glades, and some of the world’s tallest flowering trees can all be found here. There are also pretty villages and rustic farms, and you can jump aboard the historic Puffing Billy Steam Train to see them all. A trip on the steam train will cost from $59 per adult and $29.50 per child.

The Dandenong Ranges are about an hour away from Melbourne by car using the M1 freeway, Ferntree Gully Road, and the Burwood Highway. If you’d rather use public transport, you can also get there using the  V-Line train service  from Melbourne. There are many options for day tours and accommodations for longer stays.

Melbourne has relatively low crime figures for a city of its size, meaning that you should be able to relax and enjoy your time there. That said, all travel comes with risks, and you should always be aware of your surroundings and take the appropriate precautions.

Emergency Contacts in Melbourne

• If you are the victim of a crime, have been in an accident, or need urgent assistance in relation to a fire, call 000 and ask to speak to the police, ambulance, or fire department.
• If you need to contact the police in relation to a non-urgent matter, call 131 444.
• If you need advice or assistance about a Maritime and Aviation Rescue , call 9674 3000.
• If you need travel information, updates about disrupted or canceled services can be found at Public Transport Victoria .

Keep Safe in the City

• In a crowded area, stay aware of what is going on around you and keep together in groups. If there is a chance you could become separated, arrange a meeting point prior to travel.
• Pickpockets and thieves operate all over the world. To ensure that you are not a target, keep your mobile phones, wallets , and purses safely tucked away, and never leave them in plain sight.
• If you are eating out, keep your handbags or briefcases out of sight under your chair in bars and restaurants, or use a table clip if the venue provides one.
• Never accept drinks from strangers and always keep yours with you in crowded bars.

Visiting Public Places

• Never leave your bags unattended.
• Always carry your wallet or purse close to you.
• Carry backpacks forward-facing in crowded areas.
• Keep mobile phones and other devices out of sight when not in use, and never leave them in your back pocket or coat pocket.
• Before you travel, make a note of your electronic serial numbers (ESNs).
• If your valuables are lost or stolen, dial 131 444 for the nearest police station. You will need to make a full report as soon as possible.
• Do not carry large amounts of cash on you, and if you are using an ATM, be sure nobody is looking over your shoulder as you enter your PIN.

At Your Hotel

• Always keep your passports and other valuables in a locked room safe if available.
• Keep a note of your hotel’s phone number and address with you at all times. If you get lost, you can use this to find your way back.

The National Security Hotline is the single point of contact for the public to report possible signs of terrorism. It also provides information to callers on a wide range of national security matters. Visit http://www.nationalsecurity.gov.au or call the National Security Hotline at 1-800-123-400.

Weather Conditions

Melbourne has a hot climate and strong UV rays all year round, which may be warmer than some visitors are used to. To ensure you’re not at risk from the sun, always take the following precautions:

• Slip-on sun-protective clothing.
• Slop on SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen at least 20 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours outdoors.
• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, neck, and ears.
• Seek shade.
• Slide on sunglasses.

At the Beach

Only swim on lifeguard-patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags. Remember to always apply proper protection against the sun, even on cloudy days.

Bites and Stings

If you are concerned about a bite or sting, visit the Symptom Checker at healthdirect.gov.au . If you or anyone in your party is suffering from chest pain, loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, turning blue, or is badly bleeding, call 000 immediately.

Forest Fires

Bush fires are a real concern in Victoria. Before you travel, make sure you know how to safely deal with fire in a bush environment and what to do if a fire begins to spread. You can find all the information you need on the Forest Fire Management Victoria website.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is melbourne best known for.

Melbourne is regularly voted as one of the most livable cities in the world. It is also known for its street art and coffee culture.

How do you travel around Melbourne?

Melbourne has many transport options such as trains, buses and taxis but the trams are very popular. Trams are a unique way to explore the city and have a good network in the city center and nearby suburbs.

Where should I go for a day trip in Melbourne?

There are plenty of options for day trips from Melbourne including:

• Great Ocean Road
• Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade
• The Mornington Peninsula
• Grampians National Park
• Wilson’s Promontory National Park

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Melbourne Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 3, 2023

The city has a European feel to it and is popular with backpackers and young travelers looking to enjoy its laid-back vibe.

With plenty of culture, activities, art exhibitions, and live music, you could easily spend over a week here and not regret it. Heck, you might end up like so many other travelers and never leave! You definitely don’t want to rush your visit here. There’s a lot to see and do, and plenty of amazing places to eat at.

This travel guide to Melbourne will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time here.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Melbourne

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Melbourne

1. Admire the 12 Apostles

One of the most iconic sights in the country, the 12 Apostles are a series of limestone rocks just off the Great Ocean Road along the coast of Australia (the route is an Australian National Heritage-listed section of highway with stunning coastal views). You’ll likely want to make this a multi-day visit as the Apostles are 275 kilometers outside the city and are best seen on a drive along the coast. However, if you’re pressed for time you can take a full-day tour along the Great Ocean Road for just 135 AUD.

2. See the Fitzroy Gardens

Fitzroy Gardens is one of Melbourne’s most historic and beautiful gardens. Created in 1848 (the land here was originally a swamp), this 26-hectare (64-acre) Victorian-era garden is meant to look like the English gardens the early settlers left behind. It’s a lovely place to stroll around and relax with a book, with plenty of tree-lined paths and areas to sit and relax with a book. If you visit on a Saturday, you can join a free guided walking tour at 10am starting from the visitor center.

3. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens spans over 34 hectares (86 acres) and features thousands of flowers, shrubs, and trees from across the country and around the world (there are over 50,000 plants here). Hanging out here and wandering around is one of my favorite activities in Melbourne. There is a cafe called The Terrace where you can grab a coffee while you stroll the gardens. There are free guided walks too. Admission is free.

4. Watch the sunset from the beach

Head to St. Kilda to watch the sunset. It’s a beautiful, wide beach, but the water is a little too cold for me. However, it faces due west, so you get some stellar sunsets before you head out for a night on the town. If you’re around the pier and get lucky, you may even spot a penguin (there’s a small colony of them here). Just remember not to feed to touch them!

5. Explore Queen Victoria Market

This outdoor market is a mix of food sellers and knick-knack vendors — think flea market meets food market. During the week, the food hall is the main draw, but the weekend offerings are bigger, as sellers fill up the outdoor vending space. Opened in 1878, it’s a heritage landmark that sees over 10 million people each year. When you’re in the food hall, be sure to get some free wine samples from Swords Wines.

Other Things to See and Do in Melbourne

1. enjoy the cafés.

The café culture in this city is part of its soul. Everyone here loves to have coffee or tea and a snack while doing some work or chatting in some arty café. Don’t miss doing this either. You can take the café tour with Café Culture Walk or Melbourne Coffee Lovers Walking Tour to learn more about why Melbournians love their cafés so much and then spend an afternoon with a good book at your new favorite spot.

2. Indulge in a wine tour

Wine tours are super popular in this region. The Mornington Peninsula in the outer suburbs of Melbourne is a world-famous wine-producing region. Located 45 minutes from the city, it’s home to over 50 wineries. There are a lot of day trips available to the Yarra Valley too (which is where most tours take you). If you don’t have your own car or don’t feel like spending the night in the area, full-day wine tours from Melbourne start around 150 AUD per person.

3. Party in St. Kilda

Melbourne’s famous nightlife area is home to inexpensive restaurants, bars, and clubs — it’s the place to see and be seen. If you want to find Melbourne’s wild side, this is where it will be. Base Melbourne is one of my favorite places to go party if you want to hang out with other travelers — and a few locals! Their downstairs bar is popular and has cheap drinks.

4. Moonlight Cinema in the Park

During the summer, there are nightly movies (most of them are major Hollywood features) in the Royal Botanic Gardens. You can bring your own food and drinks (including alcohol) and have a cozy picnic while watching some great movies. Think of it like going to the drive-in but without the car. Just make sure to check the weather in advance and to bring a blanket to sit on as well as a sweater (it can get a little chilly sometimes). Tickets start at 19 AUD but you may be able to find a deal on Groupon to save a few dollars.

5. Flinders Street Station

Opened in 1854, Flinders Street Station is a major landmark and popular meeting place in central Melbourne. The station features Victorian architecture and large clock faces. It was the busiest railway station in the world in the 1920s and is said to currently be the busiest suburban railway station in the Southern Hemisphere.

6. Hang out in Federation Square

Right along the route of the free City Circle train and across the street from Flinders Street Station lies Federation Square. Opened in 1968, this open square spans around 3 hectares (8 acres) and serves up stellar people-watching. I like to have lunch here and just watch the city go by. Below the square on the river are also a number of restaurants and outdoor bars. In the summer, there are often all kinds of different events here as well.

7. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

Located near Federation Square, the National Gallery of Australia is the largest, oldest, and most-visited art museum in the country (over 3 million people visit each year). It’s home to over 75,000 works including modern and contemporary art, sculptures, paintings, and works from indigenous artists. You can see pretty much everything in a couple of hours. It’s one of the best activities in the city. Admission is free though temporary exhibits may have an admission charge.

8. See the State Library of Victoria

The State Library of Victoria is a historic institution that sees 8 million visitors a year. Originally built in 1856, the library has grown into an event space that’s a source of pride for city residents. Come here before it opens and you’ll see a queue of people ready to pounce on the open desks. The famous central rotunda with its octagonal shape, original dark wood furniture, and book-lined walls is definitely something not to miss. There are a number of free events and tours of the library to teach you more about its history and striking architecture.

9. Wander the Como House and Gardens

Over 160 years old, this regal estate blends a mix of classic Italianate architecture and Australian regency. It’s considered the best of the historic houses in the city and offers a rare glimpse at the luxurious and opulent life of high society in 19th century Australia. Guided tours are available for 15 AUD if you want to learn more about this beautiful mansion and its history. Admission to the gardens is free.

10. Visit the Immigration Museum

Founded in 1998, The Immigration Museum is located in the Old Customs House and features exhibitions about Australia’s immigration history. Europeans started flocking to the country in 1788, bringing with them their own cultures that eventually swept the island and displaced the Aboriginal peoples who called the island home for over 50,000 years. Admission is 15 AUD.

11. See the Melbourne Museum

The Melbourne Museum showcases Australian social history, indigenous cultures, science, and the environment. The highlight of the museum, for me, was the extensive Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Center, which highlights the culture, art, and history of the Aboriginal peoples. They also have a children’s section that’s great for anyone traveling with kids. Admission is 15 AUD.

12. Plan a day trip to Phillip Island

Located a few hours from the city, Phillip Island is a weekend hot spot for locals looking to enjoy some beach time. The island is renowned for the nightly penguin parade (when thousands of penguins return from the sea to nest), its koala sanctuary, and the huge seal colony that lives offshore. The island can be visited as a day trip, but due to infrequent buses, I would recommend spending at least a night here.

13. Enjoy the festivals

Melbourne is a major festival city, with many events throughout the year: Comedy Festival, Aussie Rules football match, Spring Racing Carnival in November, the Melbourne Cup (part of a weeklong racing festival), and many more. Stop by the local tourism office (or ask your hotel/hostel staff) to see what’s going on during your visit!

14. Hang out at the markets

There are countless markets spread across Melbourne, from food truck markets to farmer’s markets, and from beach markets to flea markets. They’re fun places to hang out for a couple of hours, enjoying the local life and people-watching.

15. Take a street art tour

I love the tours run by graffiti artists from Blender Studios. It’s pricey at 75 AUD for a 2.5 to 3-hour tour, but the price helps support local artists and includes drinks. The tour takes you through the streets and alleyways of the Melbourne CBD or Fitzroy. You’ll learn about the art scene in the city and develop a deeper appreciation for why Melbourne attracts so many artists.

For more information on other cities in Australia, check out these guides:

• Alice Springs Travel Guide
• Brisbane Travel Guide
• Broome Travel Guide
• Cairns Travel Guide
• Fraser Island Travel Guide
• Gold Coast Travel Guide
• Perth Travel Guide
• Sydney Travel Guide
• Whitsunday Islands Travel Guide

Melbourne Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm room with 6-10 beds costs 25-48 AUD. Private rooms start at 70 AUD though most are closer to 105 AUD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most include free breakfast as well.

For those traveling with a tent, there are a few holiday parks outside the city with basic unpowered tent plots costing 20-60 AUD per night. For more rustic camping, there are a few free parks outside the city if you want to stay further afield (they aren’t close to the city but they are free).

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at 90 AUD per night for a double room. Expect the standard amenities like Wi-Fi, TV, and AC. Prices are higher in the downtown core.

Airbnb is also available around the city with private rooms starting at 30 AUD per night, though they average closer to 120 AUD. For entire homes and apartments, expect to pay at least 85 AUD (though prices are usually double that if not booked early).

Food – Food in Australia is diverse, with each region having its own specialities. You’ll be able to find all types of food in this city. It’s got one of the best food scenes in all of Australia!

You can easily find pizza parlors, noodle bars, and cafes where you can eat for 15-20 AUD. Melbourne is probably the best place to eat cheaply in Australia, especially if you like Asian food. The sushi and Chinese food is out of this world. However, expect to pay at least 20-25 AUD for most sit-down restaurants (without a drink).

There are many cool districts only a train or tram ride from town. Footscray (only 3 train stops away from Southern Cross) is on the water (perfect for walks/picnics) and the latest place to be for food (especially Vietnamese) and entertainment, as well as a market to get cheap food supplies.

Or take a tram up Sydney Road Brunswick and to Coburg for Middle Eastern food. Head to Grazeland in Spotswood for a night out eating & drinking with entertainment with many craft breweries for a great atmosphere and good beers. Fitzroy’s Brunswick St hosts a major strip of restaurants, bars, and pubs.

Grab and go places cost around 10 AUD for sandwiches while fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 12 AUD for a combo meal. Beer costs around 10 AUD (6 AUD during happy hour), a glass of wine is 10-15 AUD, a cocktail is 18-20 AUD, and a latte or cappuccino costs 5 AUD.

A week’s worth of food is 60-80 AUD for basic groceries like pasta, rice, produce, and some fish or meat.

Backpacking Melbourne Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Melbourne for 70 AUD per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in hostel dorms, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and sticking to mostly free activities like free walking tours. If you plan on drinking, add another 10-20 AUD to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 205 AUD per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do some paid activities like going to the Moonlight Cinema or the museums.

On a “luxury” budget of 430 AUD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, take a day tour into the countryside to do some wine tasting, rent a vehicle to get around, go out drinking, and do as many other tours and activities as you want! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AUD.

Melbourne Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Melbourne can eat up your budget fast as restaurants, accommodation, and drinks are expensive. But there are plenty of ways to save money here! Here are some tips to help you save when you visit:

• Drink goon (box wine) – Goon is an infamous staple on the Australian backpacker trail. This cheap box of wine is the best way to drink, get a buzz, and save a lot of money at the same time.
• Cook often – Eating out in Melbourne is not cheap. The best way to reduce your food cost is to cook as many meals as possible at your hostel. Book a hostel with a kitchen to save money.
• Book tours as a package – Australia has a lot of fun activities and exciting tours that will eat into any budget. If you plan on doing any tours while you’re here, booking activities together through a hostel or tour agency can get you a discount and save you tons of money.
• Work for your room – If you’re on a budget and looking to save some cash, many hostels offer travelers the opportunity to work for their accommodation. In exchange for a few hours a day of cleaning, you get a free bed to sleep in. Commitments vary but most hostels ask that you stay for at least a week.
• Get cheap tickets – Check out Half Tix to get cheap deals on live shows and theatre.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation in Melbourne is pricey. If you plan ahead, you can find a fun Couchsurfing host for your visit. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you’ll have a local host that can share their insider tips and advice!
• Use the free City Circle tram – This free hop-on/hop-off tram has stops near most of the city’s biggest tourist attractions. Pick up a free map at a tourist info center, and get on your way!
• Take a free walking tour – I’m Free Walking Tours offers a handful of free walking tours to help you get oriented to Melbourne, and learn all about its sights and history!
• Fill up your water bottle – The tap water is clean and safe to drink in Melbourne. Saving a few bucks for each bottle of water will reduce your daily spending (and help the environment). LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Melbourne

There’s a lot of great budget accommodation in Melbourne. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• Base St Kilda
• Selina St Kilda Melbourne
• The Nunnery

How to Get Around Melbourne

Public transportation – Melbourne’s bus system is safe and reliable and travels between all major hub (shopping centres, attractions, etc.). The fare is determined by how many zones you’ll be travelling in, starting at 3 AUD. A day-pass is 10 AUD. You need a myki card (or the mobile app) to get around.

The bus to and from the airport with Skybus costs 19.75 AUD one-way or 32 AUD return.

Melbourne has a Free Tram Zone in the CBD (Central Business District), stretching from Queen Victoria Market to Docklands, Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, and Spring Street. The City Circle Tram is also free and stops at almost all of the city’s historic sites. You don’t need a myki if you’re using the free system.

Bike rentals – Biking is a great way to explore Melbourne as there are over 135 kilometers (84 miles) of bicycle trails here. You can rent a bike for 25 AUD per day.

Taxis – Taxis are expensive here, starting at 5 AUD per ride and going up almost 2 AUD per kilometer. Skip them if you can!

Ridesharing – Uber is available here.

When to Go to Melbourne

Melbourne is a great spot year-round and there’s always so much to do. I prefer visiting March-May or September-October. These are the shoulder seasons and temperatures are much more comfortable during this time (with the highest being about 24°C/75°F). It’s also less touristy.

The summer months from December to February are the busiest in Melbourne, as it’s Australia’s summer and many tourists flock here to escape the cold. The temperatures during this time are usually in the high 20s°C (high 70s°F), but they’ve been known to climb a lot higher.

Winter in Melbourne (June-August) can be quite cold and dreary, especially in comparison to Sydney and Brisbane. But you’ll certainly get the best travel deals and hotel rates during these months, so it might be worth your time anyway — especially if you’re most interested in the cafe and foodie scene.

How to Stay Safe in Melbourne

Melbourne is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. People are quite friendly and helpful and you’re unlikely to get into trouble.

As Melbourne is a big city, be on alert for pickpockets and keep your valuables secure at all times (as in any other big city), especially while around tourist landmarks or when taking crowded public transportation.

If you’re visiting Melbourne during the summer months, be prepared for high temperatures. Wear sunscreen, cover yourself, and drink plenty of water. Most incidents tend to occur because visitors are not used to the country’s unique climate.

If you’re venturing out of the city, be mindful of wildlife, especially snakes and spiders. If you’re bitten, seek immediate care.

Solo female travelers generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web that can help more!

If you’re worried about travel scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here . There aren’t many in Australia though.

If you experience an emergency, dial 000 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of safety advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Melbourne Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. Just enter your departure and arrival destinations and it will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost. It’s one of the best transportation websites out there!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Australia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Australia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Sydney

Where to Stay in Brisbane: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Brisbane

The Best Walking Tours in Melbourne

The Best Walking Tours in Sydney

Where to Stay in Melbourne: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

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Melbourne Travel Guide

While Australia's southernmost mainland city seems understated on its surface, visitors quickly learn there are layers of passion, hard work, and history behind every aspect of Melbourne—Australia's cultural capital.

Situated on the Yarra River as it flows into Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne and its population of 5 million inhabits a land that has been lived on by Aboriginal Australians for more than 40,000 years.

After British settlement in the early 1800s, the wealth produced from the nearby gold rush of the mid-19th century funded the development of much of the city you see today. Magnificent Victorian-era buildings such as Parliament House, The Princess Theatre, and The Block Arcade remain as vibrant today as when they first opened, and compete for attention with the striking geometric newcomers that dot the cityscape.

From the Victorian era emerged the city's Hoddle Grid, a layout which created the many laneways now famous for their street art, and alleys that hide world-class restaurants, bars, and boutiques.

You'll notice that Melburnians have a lot of obsessions, most notably coffee, sport, and food. This is great for visitors, as it results in a city that constantly strives for the best. It's evident in the espresso-scented laneways, as baristas grind for that perfect espresso; or in the thousands of flavor combinations that come out of kitchens that encompass cuisines from around the globe, thanks to the city's proud multicultural heritage. And it can be heard coming from the hallowed Melbourne Cricket Ground when a 100,000-strong crowd packs "The G" for a game of Aussie Rules.

Beyond the arts and all these interests that could keep one endlessly entertained, there is the landscape itself—a mixture of grand parks, impressive gardens and beautiful seasides, all which make Melbourne a must on any Australian itinerary.

Australian Eastern Standard Time (UTC+10 hours)

Best Time to Go

Melbourne's temperate climate means visitors can comfortably sightsee year-round. Major sporting events (Australian Open, F1 Grand Prix) and festivals take place mainly in the warmer months, between November and March. Much of the city's action moves indoors as days become cooler, but Melburnians adapt to their winter well, switching out sun umbrellas for patio heaters at outdoor cafes and rooftop bars. Melbourne weather has a reputation for occasionally having "four seasons in one day," which should be kept in mind when packing for your trip here.

Things to Know

Currency: Australian Dollar (Check the current exchange rate )

Language: English* *Visitors will quickly learn that Australians use a lot of slang in their everyday language, often shortening frequently-used words (i.e. "arvo" for afternoon, "avo" for avocado).

Many common words are also different to their US equivalent. Some handy examples: Elevator = lift Sidewalk = footpath Trash can = bin Cell phone = mobile Cookie = biscuit Chicken = chook Liquor store = bottle shop Flip-flops = thongs Swimsuit = bathers Sweater = jumper

Calling Code: +61

Capital City: Canberra

Tipping is uncommon in Australia. While never expected, it's also seen as inoffensive, should you wish to offer a tip. Exceptional service at a restaurant is an example of a situation in which a tip would happily be accepted.

Australians drive on the left side of the road. People here also keep to the left when walking on the sidewalk or standing on an escalator.

How to Get Around

A relatively flat city, much of Melbourne's sites and attractions can be reached easily on foot—many within walking distance of one another. Public transit is ample within inner Melbourne, and the city's iconic trams are easy to find. Taxis and rideshare options are also readily available.

Tram: The City Circle line is free and a great way to move around the Central Business District (CBD). Twenty-four routes cover more than 160 miles of track. With the exception of the City Circle, you'll need a myki card to ride a tram, and across all other public transit services.

Train: Melbourne's Metro train system includes an underground City Loop, which encompasses the CBD. There are 17 train lines that branch out from the City Loop, which reach further than the tram network, and can often be faster than a tram if journeying more than a couple of miles.

Bus: Your myki will come in handy if you find yourself in need of a bus. While trains and trams access most attractions, buses will come in handy for less accessible parts of town.

Taxi: 13cabs and Silver Top are the two main accredited taxi operators in Melbourne. You can hail them, phone or book using their respective apps. Ride-share: Uber and Ola are popular ride-share options in Melbourne. Another is Shebah, an all-women service.

Best Hotels

The langham.

Address: 1 Southgate Ave, Southbank, VIC 3006 Phone: (03) 8696 8888 Website

Overlooking the Yarra River, The Langham offers a luxury stay in an iconic location, with many of the 388 rooms offering views that encompass the city skyline, Flinders Street Station, St Paul's Cathedral and the MCG. Its restaurant, Melba, is renowned for its decadent afternoon teas, and its menu showcases local produce. Wellness facilities include a fitness center, 16.4-yard pool, and award-winning Chuan Spa.

Park Hyatt Melbourne

Address: 1 Parliament Square, off Parliament Place, Melbourne, VIC 3002 Phone: (03) 9224 1234 Website Book with Travel + Leisure

Ever so slightly set back from the bustle of the CDB grid and surrounded by manicured parks and the Fitzroy Gardens, Park Hyatt Melbourne feels like a luxurious oasis while remaining a stone's throw from the action. With 245 rooms and suites, the hotel also offers outdoor dining at its Trilogy Gardens, a stunning mosaic-decorated 27.3-yard swimming pool, day spa, gym and tennis court.

Hotel Windsor

Address: 111 Spring St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9633 6000 Website

Established in 1883, this grand hotel has been dazzling guests since before The Ritz in Paris or New York's Plaza Hotel were even established. Over the years it has hosted royalty, movie stars ranging from Gregory Peck to Meryl Streep, and sporting legends like Muhummad Ali. Situated on Spring Street across from Parliament House and next door to the Princess Theatre, each of the hotel's 180 rooms boast timeless elegance and comfort. Dine at restaurant One Eleven, or enjoy a beer and a pub meal at the historic Cricketers Bar.

Ink Hotel Melbourne

Address: 167 City Rd, Southbank, VIC 3006 Phone: (03) 9115 7000 Website

Vibrant artwork decorates all interiors at this 162-room hotel in Southbank, inspired by Melbourne's graffiti and street art. The complimentary barista-made coffee during your stay seals the deal on a trendy scene, which also offers a bar and cafe. Attractions such as the Arts Centre, NGV, and the Royal Botanic Gardens are all within walking distance.

The Westin Melbourne

Address: 205 Collins St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9635 2222 Website

For those who like to be in the middle of the action, The Westin Melbourne sits in the heart of the CBD. The city's laneways wait right on the doorstep of this longtime favorite, which features 262 cosmopolitan rooms, many with balconies. A well-equipped gym and indoor pool are among The Westin's fitness facilities.

Coppersmith Hotel

Address: 435 Clarendon St, South Melbourne, VIC 3205 Phone: (03) 8696 7777 Website

With just 15 rooms, this understated, modern boutique hotel is removed from the hubbub of the city's CBD, while remaining close to attractions and transport. Albert Park Lake is nearby, along with the South Melbourne Market—perfect for a morning coffee and pastry pit-stop. Happy hour couldn't be easier to find, with a pub of the same name downstairs.

Best Restaurants

Flower drum.

Address: 17 Market Lane, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9662 3655 Website

A crown jewel in Melbourne's dining scene for over 45 years, the Flower Drum offers Cantonese cuisine at its finest, with first-class service to match. Pearl meat and wild barramundi are among super-fresh seafood on offer; and the restaurant's iconic Peking Duck highlights on a menu that is both traditional and inventive. Reservations essential. Indoor dining only.

Charcoal Lane

Address: 136 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065 Phone: (03) 9418 3400 Website

From crocodile ceviche to braised wallaby and mushroom wontons, this modern Australian restaurant showcases native game that delights and often surprises. Indigenous ingredients, such as lemon myrtle and davidson plum are utilized across the menu, infusing cocktails and desserts with a distinctive Australian flavor. Reservations recommended. Indoor dining.

Address: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea, VIC 3185 Phone: (03) 9530 0111 Website

This fine dining restaurant, frequently found on 'Best Restaurants of the World' lists. Here, the focus is on experimental cuisine featuring native Australian ingredients. Plan ahead for this restaurant: bookings become available three months in advance and are snapped up quickly. Indoor dining only.

Address: 125 Flinders Ln, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 8663 2000 Website

This lively laneway restaurant specializes in fresh, South East Asian fare. Kingfish sashimi, pulled pork roll-ups and corn fritters are reliable highlights on the a la carte menu. There's often a wait here, but the restaurant's moody basement bar, GoGo, will keep you happy with its selection of innovative cocktails.

Jim's Greek Tavern

Address: 32 Johnston St, Collingwood, VIC 3066 Phone: (03) 9419 3827 With one of the largest Greek populations in the world outside of Greece, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to top-notch Greek cuisine in Melbourne, but you're guaranteed a one-of-a-kind experience at Jim's Greek Tavern. Buckle-up for a ride with no menu, as restaurant staff guide you through a mouth-watering variety of classic Greek fare, including lamb, seafood, dips and saganaki. Jim's is BYOB, so be sure to stop by the bottle shop on your way. Reservations recommended.

The Esplanade Hotel

Address: 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Phone: (03) 9534 0211 Website

A beloved St Kilda mainstay dating back to 1878, "The Espy" has been through a number of reinventions over the years: most recently transforming from a dive bar into a slick, multi-floor venue offering a variety of vibes and dining options, with a focus on seasonal produce and shared plates. One thing that always remains the same: That gorgeous St Kilda Beach view. Indoor and outdoor dining options.

The Lui Bar

Address: 525 Collins St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9691 3888 Website

Perched on the 55th floor of the Rialto tower and adjacent to fine dining restaurant Vue de Monde, consider the Lui Bar your go-to for views over Albert Park Lake and the bay, with one or two exquisite cocktails on the side. Reservations only required for groups of 6+.

The Brandon Hotel

Address: 237 Station St, Carlton North, VIC 3054 Phone: (03) 9347 2382 Website

Tucked away in the backstreets of the inner-northern suburbs, The Brandon Hotel knows its pub grub. Offering a mix of Aussie classics—including a really good Chicken Parma—you'll also find less-typical menu items, such as ham-hock, leek and potato croquettes. Venom Golden Ale is among local beers on tap.

Young & Jackson's

Address: 1 Swanston St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9650 3884 Website

A landmark pub across from Flinders Street Station offering local and international beer along with classic pub fare. Dine upstairs in Chloe's Brasserie, where French painter Jules Joseph Lefebvre's famous "Chloe" portrait has gazed over patrons since 1909.

Things to Do

Federation square.

Address: Corner Swanston & Flinders Streets, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9655 1900 Website

A great starting point for first-time visitors, this striking public square sits between the Yarra River and the southern edge of the CBD, and directly across from Flinders Street Station. A popular meeting place and public event venue, it's where you'll find Melbourne's main Visitor Information Centre and the Koorie Heritage Trust, which offers information on Aboriginal history, walking tours and more. Two free museums are also located here: The Ian Potter Centre, which is the National Gallery of Victoria's home to Australian art; and the Australian Centre of the Moving Image (ACMI). A number of restaurants and bars operate within the square on a permanent and pop-up basis.

Popular laneways are dotted throughout the CBD grid, notably in the area between Flinders & Collins Streets / Elizabeth & Exhibition Streets Phone: (03) 9658 9658 Website

Melbourne's iconic laneways are home to numerous cafes, hidden bars, restaurants and boutiques. Famous for their striking graffiti and street art, these spaces effectively operate as free outdoor art galleries. Explore independently, or sign up to one of the many tours available. Tattersalls Lane, Duckboard Place, ACDC Lane, Croft Alley, and Hosier Lane are a handful of musts when it comes to viewing street art. If you're looking for quality cafes and hole-in-the-wall espresso bars, be sure not to miss Centre Place and Degraves Street.

Little Penguins at St Kilda Breakwater

Address: Pier Road, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Phone: Call Parks Victoria 131 963 Website

Enjoy a sunset stroll along St Kilda Pier before Little Penguins come home to roost at twilight. Around 1,400 Little Penguins call St Kilda home, returning to the breakwater every night after a hard day's fishing out at sea.

National Gallery of Victoria

Address: 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3006 Phone: (03) 8620 2222 Website

Australia's oldest museum, the NGV: International houses an impressive collection of artworks from around the world, and hosts major international traveling exhibitions. The Roy Grounds-designed building is worthy of a visit by itself: The ceiling of the Great Hall, designed by Leonard French, features 224 stained-glass triangles, and is the largest cut-glass ceiling in the world. The iconic Waterwall at the museum's entrance is a fun posing location for all visitors, whether you're six, 26, or 60 years old.

Melbourne Museum

Address: 11 Nicholson St, Carlton, VIC 3053 Phone: (03) 8341 7777 Website

Situated in the beautiful Carlton Gardens, Melbourne Museum is a natural history museum, and so much more. Prehistoric wonders unique to the Australian continent can be found in the Science and Life Gallery, while the Melbourne Gallery details the history of the gold rush and the city's development. The museum is also home to Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, which explores Aboriginal culture and history; and the living Forest Gallery replicates the rainforests environment found just outside of the city. Keep an eye out for the critters that call this space home, including frogs and stunning Satin Bower Birds.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Address: Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne, VIC 3004 Phone: (03) 9252 2300 Website

Find a moment of zen within nearly 94 acres of stunningly-landscaped gardens, which offer vistas of the city skyline as it peeks through unique scenes, like the Arid Garden and Australian Forest Walk. Fern Gully will transport you seemingly in space and time, while the Aboriginal Heritage Walk is a valuable experience, where you can learn about Aboriginal history, traditional uses of native plants, and the spiritual meaning of Country. With more than 8,500 species of plants, the gardens are also home to two cafes: The Terrace and Jardin Tan.

Eureka skydeck

Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank, VIC 3006 Phone: (03) 9693 8888 Website

With floor-to-ceiling windows and 360-degree views, the skydeck on the 88th floor of the Eureka building showcases the stunning geography in which the city is set. Views encompass Port Phillip Bay, Albert Park Lake, and the Dandenong Ranges, in addition to miniature versions of all those landmarks you've come to love. Suspended almost 980 feet above the ground is The Edge, a glass cube experience for those seeking thrills.

Best Shopping

Bourke street mall.

Address: Bourke Street, between Elizabeth and Swanston Streets, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Website

Running perpendicular between Swanston and Elizabeth Streets, Bourke Street Mall is a hub of activity, where tram riders, buskers, and shoppers intersect. Find department stores David Jones and Myer here, as well as popular chain stores and the entrances to several shopping arcades. On the corner of Elizabeth Street sits the GPO, a grand, Victorian-era building that once housed the general post office, and now operates as a luxe shopping mall.

Address: Within the CBD Website: royalarcade.com.au ; theblock.com.au

There are a number of historic arcades within the CBD, many of them heritage-listed and worth a visit for their architecture alone, particularly The Royal Arcade and The Block Arcade. The Royal Arcade offers a mix of curiosities: It's where local chocolate company Koko Black has its flagship cafe; while neighboring stores include Babushka, a shop dedicated to nesting dolls and Spellbox, for all your crystal and witchcraft needs. Celebrated local fine jeweler Canturi also finds a home here. The Block Arcade features a mix of design, fashion, and confectionary stores, including Haigh's, Australia's oldest family-run chocolate company.

Emporium Melbourne

Address: 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 8609 8221 Website

This multi-level complex in the heart of Melbourne's CBD houses over two dozen Australian fashion labels, including Dion Lee, Scanlan Theodore, Alice McCall, and Viktoria & Woods. Here you'll also find everyday favorites such as Uniqlo, T2, Muji, and Aesop.

Brunswick Street

Address: Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, is situated between Victoria Parade to the south and Alexandra Parade to the north.

Head here for local-fashion finds, such as the ethically-minded Arnsdorf and Kloke. Browse curated vintage at Hunter Gather and be sure to make a pit-stop at one of the street's many cafes or bars. Handcrafted jewelry and artistic decor stores embrace this district's bohemian vibe.

Queen Victoria Market

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

Address: Corner of Elizabeth and Victoria Streets, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Phone: 03 9320 5822 Website

Dating back to 1878, this landmark market covers over 17 acres, making it the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Be sure to bring your appetite: this place is a food lover's heaven. Explore the artisanal purveyors, and be sure to get your hands on a hot-jam donut while you're here. Tea lovers must stop by McIver's for some of the best tea and coffee they can possibly find.

The Rose Street Artists' Market

Address: 60 Rose Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065 Phone: (03) 9419 5529 Website

Discover great local art and design at this weekend market located off the northern end of Brunswick Street. Homewares, jewelry, and paintings are just a few of the unique handmade offerings.

Dejour Jeans

Address: 542 Sydney Rd, Brunswick, VIC 3056 Phone: (03) 9939 0667 Website

Made in Melbourne since 1989, Dejour is all about quality denim at a great price. With free on-the-spot tailoring, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better denim deal.

Neighborhoods to Know

CBD : The CBD (Central Business District) is Melbourne's easy-to-navigate center, with its grid layout encompassed by the free City Circle tram. You'll find many of the city's iconic landmarks here: The State Library of Victoria, Flinders Street Station, Parliament House, and St Paul's Cathedral are standouts; along with historic and lovingly-maintained historic arcades. This is where the city's famous laneways reside, home to scores of tucked-away restaurants, bars, and boutiques. The Bourke Street Mall and Swanston Street are both closed to local traffic—but watch out for trams! Plenty of shopping is to be found around here. Chinatown, on Little Bourke Street, is steeped in history and delicious cuisine, and has formed an intrinsic part of Melbourne since the mid-1800s. Lined with stately London Plane trees, Collins Street has a distinct European vibe. Its east end is where you'll find designer boutiques such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Versace, along with Her Majesty's Theatre.

Southbank : The spire of Melbourne's Arts Centre acts as a beacon for the city's arts precinct on the south side of the Yarra River: The Australian Ballet, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Melbourne Theatre Company, and Opera Australia all call this institution home. The Malthouse Theatre, Melbourne Recital Centre, and Southbank Theatre are also nearby, all notable for their striking architecture as much as the creativity produced inside. The NGV International can also be found in this area, while along the riverbank itself you'll find restaurants, bars, and Crown casino.

St Kilda : Famous for its pier, palm trees, and penguins, this beachside suburb is abuzz on the water and off. Kite-surfing, jet-skiing, and fishing are all popular activities here, but nothing beats the relaxing simplicity in a walk along St Kilda Beach's tree-lined promenade, where nearby attractions include St Kilda Sea Baths, the historic St Kilda Pier, Luna Park amusement park, or one of the many seaside cafes, restaurants, and bars. Acland, Carlyle, and Fitzroy Streets are popular spots for food and shopping; after the sun sets, they are great places for live music, dancing, and nightlife.

Carlton : Head to Lygon Street in this inner-north neighborhood and you'll find Melbourne's Little Italy. Enjoy one of the many Italian restaurants here, or grab a sweet treat from famed pasticceria Brunetti. There are also more than a few gelateria to take your pick from here, too. The nearby Carlton Gardens are beautiful at any time of year, and is where you will find Melbourne Museum and the World Heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building.

Summer: December-February Melbourne's summers are typically hot and dry, but keep in mind the city's reputation for occasionally having "four seasons in one day." Averages can be deceptive because of this, with highs capable of reaching over 100, only to be erased by a cool change that causes temperatures to drop to the 60s. It happens infrequently enough not to affect summer vacation planning, but with that unpredictability in mind, be sure to pack a light jacket or cardigan, just in case.

Autumn: March-May This time of year can feel like an extension to summer, with plenty of warm, sunny days. Mornings become increasingly crisp as the season draws to a close. Evenings out on the town may require a coat.

Winter: June-August Melbourne's winters are mild enough to comfortably spend a day outdoors, with the right amount of layers. While Melbourne never sees a snowfall, winter mornings can be cold enough for frost in some areas, with overnight temperatures nearing freezing on occasion.

Spring: September-November Melbourne can sometimes be a little slow to come out of its winter, but spring here is typically sunny and comfortable, steadily warming up while remaining cool in the evenings.

Below are average temperatures in Fahrenheit. January: 61°F to 81°F February: 61°F to 80°F March: 58°F to 76°F April: 53°F to 70°F May: 49°F to 64°F June: 48°F to 59°F July: 45°F to 58°F August: 46°F to 61°F September: 49°F to 65°F October: 52°F to 69°F November: 55°F to 73°F December: 58°F to 77°F

Apps to Download

PTV : Melbourne public transport planner, routes, timetables, live updates. iOs | Android

National Gallery of Victoria : Navigation aid to the NGV's collections, events, and exhibitions. iOs | Android

The Fork : Restaurant, cafe, and bar reservations; reviews. iOs | Android

Yalinguth : An augmented-reality experience guided by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and storytellers that connects visitors to place and history. iOs | Android

The Happiest Hour : Guide to happy hours and other deals at local pubs and bars. iOs | Android

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Melbourne Travel Guide

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The ultimate guide to getting around Melbourne

Nov 22, 2023 • 7 min read

Melbourne's trams have become intertwined with the city's identity, especially the City Circle line © Craig Dingle / Shutterstock

As a progressive metropolis that regularly tops rankings of the world’s most livable cities, you might expect Melbourne to be a breeze to navigate – and you wouldn’t be wrong.

Although Greater Melbourne is a sprawl that can take hours to cross without a car, most major attractions are concentrated in the city center (also known as the central business district or CBD) and its surrounding neighborhoods .

This part of the city is well-serviced by public transportation, including the world’s longest tram network. These areas are also highly walkable and bikeable, a quality aided by relatively flat terrain and the availability of bike rentals. And for attractions further afield, trains, trams, buses and even boats carry you to them with ease.

To help you experience everything the city has to offer, here’s our guide to getting around in Melbourne.

Use a Myki card to get moving

To collect fares, Melbourne’s trains, trams and buses use Myki , a touch-on, touch-off system with card readers located aboard trams, buses and on train station platforms.

It’s the only way to pay for public transit and should be one of your first purchases on arrival. Standard Myki cards cost $6 and can be purchased and topped with credit at convenience stores and staffed train stations, or from dedicated vending machines at stations and major tram stops. There are also Myki vending machines within Terminals 2, 3 and 4 at the Melbourne Airport.

If you have an Android phone, you can use your phone to tap on and off using Myki via the Wallet app . An app for iPhone users does not yet exist.

The standard two-hour fare across Melbourne is $5, and there’s a daily fare cap of $10 on weekdays and $7.20 on weekends. You can either pay as you go from your credit balance or purchase a seven-day unlimited travel Myki Pass ($50).

Note that there are large fines for traveling without having touched on a valid Myki card, and ticket inspectors are unforgiving and sometimes undercover.

For timetables, maps and a journey planner, visit Public Transport Victoria (PTV). Handy transport planning apps include PTV , tramTRACKER and CityMapper .

Visitors also have the option of a Myki Explorer pack ($16), which includes the card, one day's travel credit and discounts on various attractions including several museums. It's available from SkyBus terminals, the PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station and some hotels.

Catch an iconic tram through eclectic neighborhoods

Trams are both a practical means of transport and a quintessential Melbourne experience. They run roughly every 10 to 12 minutes during the day (more frequently in peak periods) and every 15 minutes in the evening. Services operate until around 12:30am Sunday to Thursday and 1am Friday and Saturday on most lines. A night service is also available (every 30 minutes) on Friday and Saturday on a handful of lines.

All aboard for a free introduction to the city center

Trams are free to ride within the Free Tram Zone in the city center. The zone is signposted on tram stops, with announcements made when you're nearing its edge.

One tram route entirely within the Free Tram Zone is the City Circle (route 35), on which delightfully retro W-class trams follow a clockwise circuit around the CBD and Docklands.

Ride the train network to speed across the city

Melbourne’s suburban trains are the fastest and most comfortable way to travel significant distances across the city. Flinders Street Station and Southern Cross Station are the main downtown hubs for Melbourne's 17 train lines, which radiate out to the suburbs.

Trains start operating around 5am on weekdays, run until after midnight Sunday to Thursday, and all night on Friday and Saturday nights. Trains generally run every 10 to 20 minutes during the day, every 20 to 30 minutes in the evening and more frequently during peak periods.

Use the bus – or night bus – to reach your destination

Melbourne has an extensive bus network, with over 300 routes covering places trains and trams don't go. Most routes run from 6am to 9pm on weekdays, 8am to 9pm on Saturdays, and 9am to 9pm on Sundays. Night Bus services operate after midnight on weekends to many suburbs. You need to hail buses as they approach your stop, so the driver knows you want to board.

Explore Melbourne’s parks and streets on two wheels

Melbourne is up there with the most cycle-friendly cities in Australia, with work ongoing to improve the infrastructure. Bikes can be rented from outlets including Blue Tongue Bikes , BikeNow and Port Melbourne Cycles . Though conventional bikes can be taken on trains (but not the first carriage), only folding bikes are allowed on trams or buses. Helmets are compulsory for cyclists.

Some of Melbourne's cycle paths head through lush parklands, beside shaded creeks and along rivers. Detailed cycle maps are available from the Melbourne Visitor Hub at the Melbourne Town Hall .

Since 2022, Melbourne has also been trialing an e-scooter share scheme in the city center and surrounding neighborhoods. Helmets must be worn while using e-scooters and they must be ridden on roads only. To zip around on one, download the Lime or Neuron apps.

Car rentals are best left to adventures further afield

Cars tend to be more of a hindrance than a help when exploring Melbourne, as parking is difficult to find and expensive (even at hotels) and roads are busy. You’ll also have to contend with trams sharing the street and the distinctive road rules that apply to them.

For example, there’s Melbourne’s infamous “hook turn,” in which cars wanting to turn right across a tram line must first pull over on the far left of the street, in order not to block trams. Unless you’re planning to drive into the countryside – such as along the Great Ocean Road – you might prefer to stick to public transportation. If you do decide to drive, see Vic Roads for further details on local road rules.

In Melbourne itself, most street parking is metered and parking inspectors are particularly vigilant in the city center and popular nearby suburbs such as St Kilda, Collingwood and Fitzroy. Motorcyclists are allowed to park on the sidewalk, except in some parts of the city center where there are signs.

Cars and campervans can be rented from companies such as Jucy , Avis , Hertz and Rent a Bomb (“bomb” being Aussie slang for an old car). Motorbike rental spots include Moto Sparta north of the city center and EagleRider Melbourne in eastern Ringwood.

Summon taxis and ride-hailing services if you're short on time

Melbourne’s taxis are metered and require an estimated prepaid fare when hailed between 10pm and 5am; one of the taxi ranks most likely to have a vehicle waiting is next to Flinders St Station on Swanston St.

Two of the largest taxi companies are Silver Top and 13 Cabs , both of which have booking apps. Several ride-hailing services also operate, such as Uber , DiDi , and Shebah , the latter of which features an all-female fleet of drivers offering rides for women and children.

Set sail to see Melbourne from the water

Though boats are a less-used form of transport, it’s a fun way to see the city and get around.  Melbourne Water Taxis conveys clients along the Yarra and Maribyrnong Rivers, while other passenger boats link the Southbank promenade and Williamstown's Gem Pier several times a day. The charming Westgate Punt carries pedestrians and cyclists across the Yarra between Port Melbourne and Spotswood.

Accessible transportation in Melbourne

All trains and most buses are accessible by way of ramps. If using trains, you need to be at the front of the platform so the driver can see you and put the ramp out.

Trams are more hit-and-miss – many vehicles and stops are low-floor and wheelchair-accessible, but less so outside the CBD. The free tramTRACKER app displays a wheelchair icon to indicate approaching low-floor trams. The journey planner on the PTV website has a useful filter for wheelchair-accessible services and stops.

13 Cabs offers wheelchair-accessible taxis , but be aware that you may have to wait a long time, especially during peak hours and in the evenings.

Holders of current and valid interstate or overseas disability parking permits may park in reserved disability parking spaces for the specified time, and may also park in regular parking bays for twice the specified time upon payment of applicable parking fees (often waived for permit holders – see signs on parking meters for confirmation).

Elsewhere, sidewalks are generally in good repair and curb cuts are standard, as are tactile paving markers. Pedestrian crossings feature sound cues and accessible buttons.

Travellers Aid centers inside Flinders Street Station and Southern Cross Station are particularly helpful for those with mobility issues and offer a variety of facilities for travelers, including fully accessible toilets, wheelchair/scooter recharging facilities, and wheelchair/scooter hire.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated November 2023

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The PERFECT Melbourne Itinerary for 4 to 7 Days | Travel Guide

There’s a reason that the Australian city of Melbourne held onto the mantle of the “World’s Most Liveable City” for so many years in a row, and this Melbourne itinerary has got it all covered.

In a short amount of time, you can be transported from one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Australia to some of the best coastlines. This Melbourne travel itinerary will go over everything you need to know and do to experience the best that this incredible Aussie destination has to offer.

The capital of the south-eastern Australian state of Victoria, the appeal of Melbourne doesn’t seem to be losing any steam. Each year, the city welcomes 12 million domestic and international visitors and is rapidly overtaking Sydney, Australia as a must-see Australian city. Whether you are spending 4 days in Melbourne or up to a week (or even more!), it’s a place you won’t want to leave in a hurry. 

It’s one of my personal favorite cities in the world, and I’m always looking for a way to get back!

Melbourne Itinerary Overview

I’ve visited Melbourne on a couple of occasions now, and every time I visit I find myself thinking how much I would love to live there. It’s a city that will steal your heart and (despite its unpredictable weather), delivers the best food and coffee in the country and has a strange way of keeping you in its grasp for much longer than you ever thought.

There are so many incredible things to do to keep you busy during your time here that one week in Melbourne won’t ever feel like it’s enough.

I put together this Melbourne 7-day itinerary, but it’s also a helpful destination guide for if you only have 2 days, 4 days, or 6 days in the city – I know you’ll get some great ideas!

My 7-day Melbourne itinerary covers all of the major landmarks and day trip options that are highly recommended and even includes some insider tips that I picked up while there. These include the best places to eat, drink, and party!

I’ve also included some other helpful Melbourne travel tips to ensure your visit is a breeze!

What are the best things to do in Melbourne?

My Melbourne travel guide goes deep into all of the weird and wonderful things to do in the Victorian capital, but here’s a quick breakdown of what’s included. 

• Eat up big in Melbourne’s famous laneway cafes and immerse yourself in the city’s hipster vibe. 
• Sip on Melbourne’s world-famous coffee – it’s truly the best!
• Get involved in the sporting action that the city is renowned for. 
• Shop up a storm at premier retailers across Melbourne. 
• Win big at Crown Casino, one of the country’s best entertainment complexes. 
• Travel down the coast to the majestic Great Ocean Road or into the mountains of the Dandenong Ranges. 
• Cuddle up with cute Australian animals at Melbourne Zoo or Werribee Open Range Zoo. 
• Enjoy the sunshine and take a dip at one of Melbourne’s many picturesque beaches. 

Plus much more! Keep scrolling for an in-depth look at these Melbourne activities! 

Where should I stay in Melbourne?

Melbourne is a cultural melting pot with distinctly different neighborhood aesthetics, reminiscent of eternal world favorites London and Paris. A far-reaching metropolis that is ever-expanding as more and more people lay roots here, Melbourne accommodation has something for everyone.

Here are just a few of my recommended picks of where to stay on your Melbourne itinerary. 

Booking.com is always my favorite way of booking travel accommodation, and Melbourne is such a fantastic city to have your apartment to get a sense of local life. There are countless incredible apartments available all across the city and often work out cheaper than booking a hotel room!

• Brand New Apartment With Balcony, Gym, and Sauna (Located in Richmond, one of the coolest inner-city suburbs)
• Incredible 3-Bed Home in The Heart of St Kilda (St Kilda – right near the beach and an amazing bar scene!)
• The Marker Apartments Melbourne (Right in the heart of the action in the Melbourne CBD!)

Which Melbourne hotel should I stay at?

What if you want to stay at a hotel while enjoying a week in Melbourne? I have some incredible recommendations for that stay style too.

Park Hyatt Melbourne – One of my favorite hotels I’ve stayed at while exploring Melbourne. Great location, food, customer service, and overall amazing experience. While it’s on the luxury side of things, it’s absolutely worth it!

Selina Central Melbourne – If you’re looking to save a bit of money, then there’s no better place to stay than the iconic Selina Brand, which is known around the world for their amazing hostels and communities. It’s the BETS location right opposite the iconic Flinders Street Station in the heart of Melbourne, and 

Credit: Park Hyatt Melbourne

How many days should I spend in Melbourne?

Trying to decide how long to spend in Melbourne isn’t an easy choice. On the one hand, a visit to the city can be very expensive; but on the other, it’s a widespread city and needs more than just a few days to be fully experienced.

That’s why I created this guide. Technically,  a 4-day Melbourne Itinerary would be enough, but I also stretched the itinerary below to 7 days, which gives you more time to explore. I would say between 4 and 7 days is ideal.

The answer to this question will be based on your preferences and available time for your trip in Australia, but make sure you start every morning with a cup of delicious Melbourne coffee or two!

What is the best time to visit Melbourne?

Now that you’ve figured out how long you want to stay, it’s time to decide when should you visit Melbourne! While the summer season is between December and March and these months are more expensive than others, I’d recommend coming here during the shoulder seasons between March and May (autumn) and September and November (spring). 

During these two periods, the temperature is mild enough for you to enjoy some of this week-long Melbourne itinerary on foot, and it also won’t hurt your wallet too much.

If you’re heading to Melbourne on a budget, head down during the low season between June and August. This is winter in Melbourne, but winters here aren’t as cold as winter in the Northern Hemisphere, and the sun often comes out! Winter in Melbourne is the cheapest time to visit the city, but you’ll have to be content with the somewhat chilly weather and occasional rainfall. But this is also a great time to visit for winter lovers as you can go ice skating and skiing just outside the city, amongst other activities!

How do I get around Melbourne? 

Melbourne is famous for having one of the most extensive and well-serviced public transport networks in Australia, and getting around the city is relatively easy. Either way, there’s always a friendly local to ask for directions! It is Australia, after all. 

First things first. To use Melbourne public transport you need a Myki card, which is an easy-to-use tap-on/tap-off card, just like other world cities have in place. The card itself is cheap and sold at most premium stations, and you just top it up with money as needed. Myki covers not just Melbourne City but regional Victoria as well, and only recently, the government has made travelling across Melbourne or into the countryside even cheaper, with a capped per-day rate regardless of how far you travel on Myki. How cool is that!

Melbourne public transport options

Melbourne has a detailed rail network, which services not just the CBD (including the underground portion known as “The Loop”), but the outer suburbs and beyond too. They also have a ton of bus lines that criss-cross the city, and they have one little other things that sets them apart from the rest of Australia… trams! Melbourne’s famous tram system is smooth and streamlined and services the inner city and city fringe, passing through some of the coolest and most sought-after suburbs. One of the best things about Melbourne trams? The city also offers a “Free Tram Zone”, which means you don’t have to pay to cruise on Melbourne trams within the city centre! In addition, Melbourne has a handy “Night Network”, which runs all-night train, bus and tram services on weekends. This is fantastic if you’re planning a big weekend hitting Melbourne’s many bars and clubs!

Public Transport Victoria is your one-stop site for all Melbourne public transport timetables, routes, fare estimates and any other information you may need.

Other ways to get around Melbourne

If you’re eager to get where you’re going without trying to make sense of a Melbourne public transport map, the city is saturated by ride share options, including Uber Melbourne and Lyft, which can be a fair bit less expensive than Melbourne’s 13 CABS , which can cost a pretty penny, especially at peak periods or on holidays. There’s ferries that service the seaside locales of the city, and you can even rent a Lime Bike , an electric bike share service offered by the City of Melbourne. Just scan the QR code on a bike through the Lime or Uber app, and away you go!

Finally, if you want to have the freedom of coming and going where you want, when you want, you can easily hire a car in Melbourne. Hertz and Budget are major car rental companies available across Melbourne, and offer flexible pick-up and drop-off locations and times. Uber now offers a cost-effective carshare service as well!

You’ll have zero issue getting around Melbourne, thanks to its extensive public transport service and other travel offerings. The city is so well covered that getting from A to B is a breeze. 

Melbourne Itinerary Breakdown: 

Okay, I’ve rambled enough. It’s now time to get into the best itinerary Melbourne has to offer! Keep reading to learn more, but here’s a great starting point to get a basic idea of how to make the most of your time here!

• Day 1: Laneway Eateries & All The Coffee
• Day 2: Sporting Tours & A Culture In Spades
• Day 3: World-Class Shopping & High Rolling
• Day 4: Day Trip To The Coast – Or The Mountains!
• Day 5: Seaside Fun In St Kilda
• Day 6: Hang out with Australian furry friends
• Day 7: Explore hipster inner-city hangouts

Melbourne Itinerary Day 1: Laneway Eateries & All The Coffee

If you’ve traveled from abroad, the long flight to Melbourne might have left you feeling a little jetlagged. Take this opportunity to decompress and fuel up your energy levels with the coffee that Melbourne is world famous for. During your Melbourne trip, you’ll likely be enjoying many great coffees. Make sure to order an Aussie icon, the flat white. 

Melbourne is famous for its artistic, often grungy laneways, and these hip walkways are packed with some of the best cafes and eateries the city has to offer. Centre Place is a standout. Even if you are only doing a Melbourne 4-day itinerary, this is one of the must-visits.

Where is the best coffee in Melbourne?

My top five recommendations for central Melbourne cafes or coffee shops that serve up a roast you will want to write home about are…

Pellegrini’s Espresso Bar – “Pellegrini’s is all about character, honest Italian fare and coffee. In fact, it is said (by Pellegrini’s themselves) that the first espresso machine to arrive in Melbourne was delivered here in 1954 – opening the gates to a city-wide obsession.”

Proud Mary – “We take great pride in supporting and representing coffee producers and communities. We visit our producers each year and venture into their farms, homes and families. This is a relationship. We discover who they are, what motivates them and how we can support one another. Through this tangible form, we generate mutual understanding and appreciation. These are the true rock stars of coffee, the story starts with the producer.”

Axil Coffee Roasters – “Our aim has always been simple; to source, roast and produce the best cup of coffee. We have a passionate and enthusiastic team who travel the globe to find the best specialty coffee available. We are continuously building relationships with coffee producers to ensure we are getting the highest quality.”

Dukes Coffee Roasters – “We are an Australian specialty coffee roasting company whose focus is the craft of carefully roasting the best coffees in the world using innovative and methodic roasting practices. We are committed to bringing the best selection of exceptionally grown, amazing tasting, and in-season specialty coffees to cafes and consumers in Australia.”

Auction Rooms – “We believe in quality, detail, great food, and good vibes. Combine that with a backdrop that will take your breath away and we are well on the way to hosting the most memorable of events for you.”

Where should I eat in Melbourne? 

After inflight “food” from hell, I’m sure you’ve got a raging appetite too, and you’ve touched down in the right city to satisfy any palate. Melbourne has been a cultural melting pot of international influences since its earliest days, and that has spilled over into not only coffee, but food as well. Culinary delights can be found on every corner of this beautiful city. But tonight, I recommend heading straight for the center of epic Asian food in Melbourne, Chinatown! Melbourne’s Chinatown is located in the heart of the CBD.

Once you’ve found your way there, make a beeline for the locally-loved Shanghai Dumpling House . This rickety old building is always heaving with visitors and locals filling up on their share of pork dumplings, Shanghai fried noodles, and Chinese broccoli. You won’t regret it.

“Looking for a “cheap & cheerful”? Tight budgets are never a problem here, with meals from around $10, served with complimentary Chinese tea.

Melbourne Itinerary Day 2: Sporting Tours & A Culture In Spades

Today you’re hopefully feeling fresher and with endless energy to make the most of your time in this vibrant city tackling this 4-day Melbourne itinerary. You’ve sampled some gold-star food and coffee, but now it’s time for sports lovers to get excited.

Melbourne is often referred to as the “sporting capital of Australia” – and for good reason. A year-round sporting schedule sees globally-recognized events hit town, with cricket, AFL (Australian Football or “footy”), and tennis being the main players that locals can’t get enough of.

The MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) runs tours of the holy grail of Aussie cricket, where you’ll get to walk on the very turf legends of the game have played on. You can also enjoy a tour of the various rooms, including player changing rooms.

If tennis is more your style and you don’t miss a minute of the Australian Open Grand Slam each year, you’ll have a blast on the Australian Open Tour, which takes you around the major arenas of the tournament, including Rod Laver Arena. There’s a range of Melbourne Park tours available, where you’ll be treated like a top seed yourself.

Melbourne Itinerary Day 3: World-Class Shopping & High Rolling

Day three in Melbourne has to be spent blowing some cold hard cash. After all, it’s just another reason visitors flock here throughout the year. Melbourne is a shopper’s paradise, with a long list of shopping centers, laneways, and city streets selling all the wares you could ever dream of. 

Chadstone Shopping Centre referred to as “The Fashion Capital”, is located in suburban Melbourne, approximately 20 minutes from the city center. It is the biggest shopping center in Australia. A free shuttle bus service for tourists runs to and from Melbourne Central to Chadstone each hour, so there’s no reason not to check it out while you visit Melbourne.

If you’re looking for other ideal shopping locations and love authentic markets, The QV Market and South Melbourne Market are other great options in Melbourne. If you happen to be in Melbourne on Sunday morning, get down to the hipster paradise of the Camberwell Market , on the city centre fringe bright and early and find a one-off treasure. It’s a huge flea market and wildly popular, and there’s hot jam donut and coffee stands to fuel you, if that tempts you. It tempts me!

Other top Melbourne shopping spots include DFO South Wharf for heavily discounted bargains and the famous Bourke Street Mall smack bang in the center of the city. 

Now that you’ve picked up a knockout outfit on your Melbourne shopping free, wear it somewhere deserving tonight and head to Crown Casino , located on Southbank. This huge, glittering casino runs alongside the Yarra River, and you can’t miss the riverside fire display each night. Inside, try your hand at blackjack or attempt to talk your way into the VIP high rollers area.

On your way home, if you’ve enjoyed a few drinks (or “bevvies”, as the Aussie say) you definitely need a good meal to put some pep in your step. Head over to one of Melbourne’s only 24-hour eateries, Stalactites , on Lonsdale Street. This Greek restaurant is a dining institution, and they won’t judge you for eating a souvlaki at 6am (that’s a Greek-style Aussie gyros). My kind of place!

Melbourne Itinerary Day 4: Day Trip To The Coast – Or The Mountains!

You’ve spent a few days exploring the incredible city limits of Melbourne, so now is the perfect time to pack your bag and head off on a day trip to experience a little of what Greater Melbourne has to offer.

Melbourne has so many doable day trips that it’s hard to pick the best, but the iconic Great Ocean Road has to be ticked off any bucket list.

Drive Along The Majestic Great Ocean Road

Whether you’re renting a car and doing it yourself, or taking advantage of the endless number of tour companies that run trips down this stunning slice of Aussie coastline, the Great Ocean Road is really deserving of a few days if you have it to spare.

Starting on the outskirts of Geelong, approximately 40 minutes from Melbourne CBD, this long and winding coastal road takes you through an array of gorgeous Victorian towns with crashing ocean views. Don’t miss world-famous surfing and swimming destinations like Bells Beach, Lorne, Torquay, Apollo Bay, Port Campbell, and Port Fairy.

Like every other visitor who has ever found themselves on the Great Ocean Road, you have to stop off at the natural formation that is the  12 Apostles , and take a snap to upload to the socials and make everyone back home green with envy. To do the entire Great Ocean Road right down to the Twelve Apostles and Port Fairy and back again, you’ll need about 10 hours at an absolute minimum. That’s taking into consideration stopping off at major lookouts and for a bite to eat along the way. It’s 275 km one way, after all.

For more information, check out this awesome Great Ocean Road Trip Itinerary for everything you need to know! Looking for other outdoor activities but closer to the city? Head down to the Mornington Peninsula or stick around the city centre and wander through the lush landscape that is the Royal Botanic Gardens .

Immerse Yourself In The Dandenong Ranges

If you’d choose the mountains over the beach any day of the week, another popular day trip that’s a lot more manageable time-wise than the Great Ocean Road is  the Dandenong Ranges,  a breathtaking natural landscape and less than an hour from the city.

This mountain range is located to the east of Melbourne, with their peak, Mount Dandenong, topping the range. The Dandenong Range are full of charming small towns, gardens, restaurants, cafes, hotels, and hikes. The 1000 Steps (official name the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk ) is an uphill trek that is absolutely packed with visitors most days but worth it to say you made it! It’s a serious test of your fitness, but you can go at any pace you want.

While you’re touring around the Ranges, enjoy a ride on the Victorian institution, Puffing Billy . This historic steam train winds its way from Belgrave to Gembrook through lush Australian bush. 

If you still have the energy upon your return to Melbourne, head to inner-city Carlton – specifically Lygon Street. This is a street name everyone in Melbourne knows – for a lot of reasons. Not only is it the unofficial home of Italian influence in Melbourne, but it serves up some of the best Italian food you’ll get your hands on in Australia. Melbourne’s answer to “Little Italy” is also a location where a lot of the well-documented Gangland Wars of the 1990s and 2000s took place. Culturally enriched, Lygon is where it’s at.

With that, you’d have been about done with what to do in Melbourne for 4 days, but I have a few more ways to spend days 5 to 7 in the city, if you’re sticking around. I’d recommend it!

Melbourne Itinerary Day 5: Seaside Fun In St Kilda

You’re still here! Awesome. That means that you’re planning on spending a little more time in the city of Melbourne. Great choice! 5 days in Melbourne gives you an extra day to explore.

After a day like yesterday, that no doubt involved a lot of walking (did you manage the 1000 Steps?), your fifth day in beautiful Melbourne is going to be a little slower, with lots of time allocated for R&R. If you’ve come to Melbourne during spring or summer, you’re in luck, as heading to the beach here is a popular pastime that you should reserve some time for. 

Head down to iconic St Kilda, a beachside suburb of Melbourne a short distance from the city. You can get there from the CBD on one of the city’s iconic trams and tick that off your list as well.

The St Kilda Esplanade stretches along the coast, from Fitzroy Street, a hub for eating and partying, to Acland Street , where achingly trendy bars and pubs exist alongside the landmark amusement park, Luna Park .

If you are lucky enough to visit St Kilda on a Sunday, the Esplanade Market stretches the length of the road and overlooks the sea, selling everything you could imagine. Other than that, you can visit the South Melbourne Market just up the road, which opens between Wednesday and Sunday with traders ranging from food stalls to florists.

Take a dip in Port Philip Bay, soak up some of that (really strong) Aussie sun, walk along St Kilda Pier, and visit the penguins. About five minutes from St Kilda Beach is Brighton Beach, which I recommend for a photo op in front of its unique Bathing Boxes. From a ginger to you, I recommend packing some sunscreen for your day on the beach. 

Back to St Kilda, the area is filled to the brim with incredible bars and clubs, and a night out here is like no other. If it’s a summer night, there’s a unique hippy vibe to it that’s indescribable.

What are the best bars in St Kilda, Melbourne?

After a sunny day on the beach or jumping off St Kilda Pier, it’s time to enjoy a refreshing Aussie ale at one of the burb’s best bars and live music venues, which the neighborhood is positively packed with. A few St Kilda bars I recommend are…

• The Vineyard
• The Esplanade Hotel (“The Espy”)
• The Local Taphouse 
• The Prince of Wales Hotel

If your day/night out in St Kilda gets particularly messy, head back to your hotel via Chapel Street in Windsor and experience the grungiest, dirtiest and potentially the most fun time of your life at Revolver . With tons of dark rooms pumping everything from hip-hop to electronic and techno, it’s a night you won’t forget. Or may actually, forget. I can speak to that. 

Melbourne Itinerary Day 6: Hang out with Australian furry friends

No trip to Melbourne, or Australia as a whole, is complete without a visit with some of the country’s native animals. And no, I don’t mean those animals that are popular for terrorizing Australians. I mean those cute, fluffy, and friendly critters. Your friends expect a picture of you cuddling a koala, so make it happen. 

Which Melbourne zoos should I visit?

Luckily for those visiting Melbourne, there are a number of zoos and sanctuaries you can get to that are a stone’s throw from the city. Melbourne Zoo , probably the most heavily trafficked, is a short train ride from the CBD and is home to over 5,000 Aussie and international animals. If checking out some of Australia’s (often bizarre-looking) furry inhabitants is on your agenda, head to the koala, kangaroo, platypus, Tasmanian Devil, and wombat enclosures.

Werribee Open Range Zoo is slightly further afield but can be reached by car in about 40 minutes. A more interactive, natural environment than Melbourne Zoo, Werribee Zoo lets you get up close and personal with some majestic beasts in a safari-style habitat. You can even do a “Slumber Safari”, where you sleep amongst the lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!) under the stars in a luxury camp.

Finally, Healesville Sanctuary , nestled the picturesque Yarra Valley and just an hour from Melbourne, is another natural bush haven for native wildlife. Wandering around Healesville Sanctuary is a joy, as the location has conservation and care for the animals foremost in its mind.

Hot tip: A day at these wildlife parks involves a lot of walking, so wear sensible footwear.

Melbourne Itinerary Day 7: Explore hipster inner-city hangouts & Night Tour

It’s your final day in Melbourne, and I bet you’ve had an absolute blast and are devastated (“devo”, to Aussie) to leave. Don’t worry, I’ve got a final treat in store for you to cap off your trip. Get your skinny jeans and your fedora on because the most hipster suburbs of Melbourne await you.

Exploding in popularity in recent decades, the urban, inner-city hubs of Fitzroy, Brunswick, and Northcote have transformed themselves from some of the least-coveted suburbs to topping the list of the most in-demand real estate in the city. The hippest of Melbourne’s cool crowd either live in or flock to these neighborhoods to be seen at the unique bars, clubs, thrift stores and cafes that cram the streets.

What are the coolest suburbs in Melbourne?

In trendy inner-city Fitzroy, I recommend The Rum Diary for a well-earnt drink or  Naked for Satan for a wild night out with a superior view of the Melbourne skyline. Always buzzing, Brunswick is packed with bars, coffee shops, and unique shopping along Sydney Road, so pick up a strong espresso at warehouse cafe Lux Foundry and rub shoulders with the in-crowd.

For a few bevvies, don’t miss Howler . Northcote is a suburb close to Melbourne CBD that is so damn hip it makes you instantly feel inferior. The entire city knows the institution, Northcote Social Club , a popular venue for regular live entertainment, gigs, and a great outdoor deck where you can smash some of the best eats and drinks in Melbourne.

While you’re exploring the inner-city suburbs of Melbourne, take a leaf out of the local’s book and be sure to spend some time wandering around the many “op shops” (thrift stores, as we Americans say) and vintage stores. You are sure to pick up a one-off treasure that will remind you fondly of your time in Melbourne.

Where can I see art in Melbourne?

After spending a couple of hours in the inner-city, Melbourne’s famous street art won’t go unnoticed. Its famous laneways are often heaving with budding photographers, taking snaps of its street art. For the best street art in Melbourne, head to AC/DC Lane (yep!), Caledonian Lane, Hosier Lane and Degraves St, just for starters.

If you’re in the mood for taking in some classic art, be sure to pop into the National Gallery of Victoria . One of Australia’s best museums, the NGV is home to thousands of pieces of both Australian and foreign art, and regularly host exciting events or nighttime shindigs. 

What’s a fun Melbourne night tour to do?

Tonight, do something a little different and sign up for a spooky nighttime Melbourne tour. There’s a range of tours that takes you on foot through the darkened streets of this awesome city, telling you twisted, scary stories of Melbourne of the past and the ghosts that lurk down its eerie laneways. Or head to the eerie Old Melbourne Gaol for a frighteningly good time on the “ Hangman’s Night Tour “. 

Melbourne Itinerary Tours and Experiences 

Tackling Melbourne on your own is pretty easy, but I definitely recommend using tours to see more of the city with a local guide. There are a number of you can look at during this Melbourne 1 week itinerary, including the following:

• From Melbourne: Phillip Island Penguin Parade Eco Tour : “Experience the magic of Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park on a bus tour from Melbourne. Enjoy views at Cape Woolamai prior to visiting the world-famous Penguin Parade on Phillip Island.”
• Melbourne: Complete City Walking Tour : “Join your tour guide for a walk through Australia’s culture capital and learn what makes this city great and so much more.”
• Melbourne: Hidden Alleyways, Ghosts and Best Instagram Spots : “Travel back to 19th-century Melbourne on a 1.5-hour ghost tour of the most haunted and Instagrammed locations. Discover hidden lanes, historic buildings, and spooks that still linger on the city streets.”

And there you have it.

My tips for the best week-long Melbourne tour itinerary . I hope you find it as diverse and enjoyable as this world-class city.

Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance!

Whether you are heading to Melbourne for just a few days or embarking on a lengthy trip around Australia, travel insurance is absolutely essential. Have you seen some of the crazy animals they have Down Under, or indeed, how expensive some things can be in Australia?

Getting sick or having items stolen while traveling is rare, but when it does happen, it can be an absolute nightmare. Having insurance (which is essential for visas in some countries) will give you the peace of mind that if anything terrible does happen, you are covered.

I highly recommend HeyMondo due to their extensive range of cover for all situations and trip lengths, their fair pricing, and their handy app, which allows you to not only manage any claims within the app but also access free assistance online, so you don’t need to rack up an expensive phone bill while abroad!

So, whether you need a single trip cover or an affordable annual cover for multiple trips worldwide, be sure to buy your travel insurance before you travel and relax during your trip, knowing that HeyMondo has your back. Nowadays I would never travel without insurance again, especially after hearing so many (expensive and dangerous) horror stories from other travelers I’ve met!

Still planning your trip? Get a no-obligation  travel insurance quote now, so you have an idea of how much extra to budget for your vacation. 

Planning a trip to Australia?

I’ve got so much love for this country, and I think everyone needs to visit down under at least once in their life. I actually lived and worked in Sydney for a year, and I miss it so damn much. I’ve written a lot about Australia, so check out some of my other top articles!

• Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
• 30 Music Festivals in Australia To Experience Before You
• Top 30 Music Festivals in Melbourne
• 14 Words You’ll Start Saying When You Move to Australia
• The Ultimate Guide For Moving To Sydney on a Working Holiday Visa
• Cairns – Sydney: The Ultimate Greyhound Bus Pass Itinerary
• The 15 Best Music Festivals in Sydney
• 15 Best Beach Resorts In Australia
• 15 Best Yurts In Australia For A Glamping Getaway
• 57 Quotes About Australia  

Thanks so much for reading my Melbourne Itinerary!

If you’re not already following me, be sure to check out my Facebook & Instagram for more of my international adventures!! As always, if you have any questions about anything you read, feel free to shoot me a DM or email me. I’m happy to help any way I can!

suggesting shopping….seriously? who goes to melbourne to do shopping? no comment…

Everyone in Australia would go to Melbourne to shop, I reckon. It’s considered to be the prime shopping destination in the country and was the first place to have Direct Factory Outlets, years and years ago. Now there’s plenty of boutique stores selling all sorts of interesting things.

Hi, great site and awesome insights. Very helpful to get an overview before I book the tickets :) I am planning for a 10-12 day vacation in australia from India this August. Is it a good time to visit? I would like to cover the best, most in a little relaxed mode with medium budget to spend. Travelling with husband and 2 kids under 10 years of age. Any tips, itinerary options are welcome! PS: I am a photographer and would appreciate any specific photography spots/times.

I’d definite;y make sure you do the Great Ocean Road for a few days! It’s a must for photographers! :-)

The Park Hyatt was way out of my league. But i stayed there as a treat to myself at the end of a business trip.

Hey ! thanks for such a great post.and many interesting point are cover in this blog. again thanks for a posting a interesting artical…

Thank you very much for all your beautiful pictures and ideas!! We are going to visit Australia next month. You give/ gave us a lot of inspiration!!!

Excellent post it is very helpful and knowledgeable content good work keep it up. Makes me want to visit Melbourne again so bad

Thanks so much for the article.Really thank you! Keep writing. What’s your favorite thing to do in Melbourne?

Excellent post, although I generally don’t like Australia. I think if you were to travel to Australia Melbourne is the best city to go to.

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Your Trip to Melbourne: The Complete Guide

Marina is a freelance writer who began contributing to TripSavvy in 2019. She set off with a one-way ticket to Asia in 2017 and has been living and traveling abroad ever since.

The culinary and sports capital of Australia, Melbourne is also a great city to catch live music, theatre performances, and comedy shows. Plus, shopping here is on a whole other level. On top of all that, this city is the perfect place to make your base as you explore the rest of Victoria for hiking, camping, and wine. Did you catch all of that? No worries, mate. Here’s your complete guide to Melbourne to help you plan the perfect trip. 

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: If you’re looking for hot temperatures and a lineup of things to do, then consider visiting during the summer months, between December and February. Yes, the city will be more crowded with international and domestic travelers, but summer is also when the city comes to life with festivals, events, rooftop bars, and things to do. While the other months of the year will be less crowded, the weather is hit and miss.
• Language: English, though Melbourne is the most linguistically diverse Australian capital city with 32 percent of residents speaking a language other than English.  
• Currency: Australian dollar
• Getting Around: The Public Transport Victoria’s train and tram lines are the cheapest and quickest ways to get around. You’ll need to purchase a myki card to get onto trains and trams, which can be bought at 7-Eleven stores or on myki machines at train stations. Next, you need to load the card with a certain amount of money to get from A to B. You can do this at the myki machine.
• Travel Tip: Metro police conduct random checks on every train to see if passengers paid for their ride. If you don’t tap on before entering the platform and an officer catches you, you'll be fined AS$248 which you have 28 days to pay.   So don’t skip on paying for public transportation!

Things to Do

No trip to Melbourne would be complete without visiting Queen Victoria Market, sipping coffee, exploring the laneways, or checking out a game at Melbourne Cricket Ground. If the weather is beautiful and you have time, you should take a day trip to the Yarra Valley wine region or the Great Ocean Road.

• To get acquainted with Melbourne, take a walking tour of the Central Business District. Opt for one that will guide you through the laneways and arcades filled with street art, boutique shops, and hidden bars. 
• There’s a lot of fuss around the city’s coffee culture. Decide for yourself if Melbourne has the best coffee in the world by stopping at Axil Coffee Roasters , Higher Ground , or St. Ali Coffee Roasters .  
• Shop for souvenirs at Queen Victoria Market . It’s a landmark in the city that hosts a variety of Australian produce, food, and products. 

Explore more attractions with our article on the top 20 things to do in Melbourne .

What to Eat and Drink

As we mentioned before, Melbourne is the food capital of Australia. So what makes Melbourne cuisine stand out? Its chefs and bakers upgrade regular food staples with an Australian flare. For instance, Aussies love their beetroot, so we recommend trying the True Blue Beetroot burger from YOMG . If you want to get in on the Golden Gaytime action (it is Melbourne's favorite ice cream treat, after all) order a Gaytime crunch doughnut from Bistro Morgan.

Melbourne’s beer and wine scene are top-notch as well. There are a bunch of breweries located within the city and its surrounding neighborhoods. Check out Carlton Brewhouse , Colonial Brewing Co. , and Mountain Goat Beer to learn about Melbourne’s beer scene. When it comes to wine, this city thrives. Wine regions surround Melbourne. Yarra Valley is the closest to the CBD and produces excellent Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Shiraz. When ordering wine from a menu at a restaurant or bar in Melbourne, try wines from the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, or Macedon Ranges regions.

There are a lot of different types of bars in Melbourne, including rooftop, cocktail, and karaoke bars; speakeasies; and pubs. The only thing you really won’t find is a traditional sports bars, with football, basketball, or baseball playing on monitors across every inch of the pub. For a classic cocktail bar, check out The Everleigh . If it’s a clear night, walk up to Rooftop Bar for wild cocktails and an open-air cinema. 

Explore our articles on Melbourne's top restaurants and foods you absolutely need to try during your visit.

Where to Stay

When thinking about the best places to stay in Melbourne, consider where you’ll be spending most of your time and what types of activities you want to do. If you love being in the center of the action, opt to stay in Melbourne CBD. It’s the most central location, with walkable streets and easy access to public transportation. 

Within the CBD, you’ll find every type of accommodation according to your budget, including hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and couch surfing. Making the CBD your base means you’ll have direct access to the best shopping, food, sports, and nightlife that Melbourne has to offer. Plus, from here you can easily explore the surrounding neighborhoods and parts of regional Victoria. 

If you’d prefer to stay outside of the big city, consider St Kilda. It’s by the beach and slightly cheaper than staying in the CBD. St Kilda is a popular hub for backpackers as there are many budget-friendly hostels in this neighborhood. There are also plenty of funky Airbnbs with the bonus of being next to the beach. Plus, it’s only a 20-minute tram ride from Melbourne CBD, so it's not too far from the center of the city.

Getting There

Melbourne Airport is the main hub for domestic and international travelers flying into and out of the city. The cheapest and most convenient way to get from the airport to Melbourne CBD is by SkyBus . It’s a 30 to 40-minute direct ride to Southern Cross Station, and it costs AU$19.75 for a one-way ticket. It’s not necessary to rent a car to explore Melbourne as public transportation is a cheap, clean, and reliable mode of transportation.

Culture and Customs 

Australian culture, in general, is very diverse. It’s home to the Aboriginal Indigenous community who have been living in Australia for at least 45,000 years though some scholars place estimates at 75,000-80,000 years  . This culture varies throughout the continent. You won’t find many Aboriginal communities in Melbourne since they tend to call the warmer climates of Queensland and Northern Territory home.  

European and British immigrants influenced the city of Melbourne during the 1850s Victorian gold rush. Today, the city is a major cultural hub, with large Italian, Greek, Chinese, and African migrant communities. It’s kind of like New York City in the sense that it’s a melting pot of people from all over the world.  

Australian slang is never easy to understand. For a quick lesson, “arvo” means “afternoon,” “chook” means “chicken,” “devo” means “devastated,” and “legless” means “someone who is really drunk.” There are different accents across the country.

In terms of customs, men and women are treated equally, and people are free to live where they like and follow whichever religion and occupation they choose. When you greet another Australian, it’s common to shake a person’s right hand. Go to a gas station, and you will pay after you fill up your tank. For ordering at restaurants, you usually pay first at the counter before you sit down. A server will bring the food to you, and tipping isn’t required. 

It’s known throughout the country that Melburnians are coffee snobs. They’re very particular about their coffee and might go so far as to say that it’s the best in the world

In terms of sports, Melbourne hosts several international sporting events throughout the year—including the Australian Open and Formula 1 Grand Prix —as well as local Australian Football League and National Rugby League games. The Melbourne Cricket Grounds is the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere.

Australia is generally a safe country, particularly in Melbourne. However, keep in mind that it’s always important to be aware of your safety when you travel. 

Money-Saving Tips 

• Search for restaurants that offer BYOB. Chinatown and St Kilda are excellent spots for cheap eats.
• Opt to stay in a hostel; most hostels offer private rooms and dorms. 
• Skip car rentals, taxis, and ride-sharing apps. Melbourne has a reliable, clean, and safe public transportation system that will get you where you need to go. As a bonus, you can ride the tram for free within Melbourne CBD.
• Want to check out a theater performance? TodayTix offers last-minute, discounted tickets, and Tixel is a ticket resale website. 
• There are plenty of free things to do in the city that include entry into the National Gallery of Victoria, a walk in the Royal Botanic Gardens, watching fairy penguins at St. Kilda pier, and browsing through the city's markets.
• Take a free walking tour of Melbourne to get acquainted with the city. A guide will explain the city’s art, cafe culture, and laneways.
• You can watch live music for free at Northcote Social Club on Monday nights.
• If you’re a student, flash that student ID! Most attractions (museums, theater tickets, public transportation, movie tickets) offer discounts to students.

 .id - The Population Experts. "Greater Melbourne: Language Spoken at Home." 2016.

Victoria State Government Department of Transport. "Public Transport Fines."

Encyclopedia Britannica. "Australian Aboriginal Peoples."

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The Ultimate 7-Day Melbourne Itinerary 2023

Planning a trip to the land down under, but not sure where to start? We’ll do the heavy lifting for you. Here’s our 7D6N Melbourne itinerary that covers everything you need to do in this bustling city!

Often known as the cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne sure does live up to its reputation. With hidden gems tucked away in iconic laneways, amazing coffee shops at literally every corner, and a thriving art scene that never fails to inspire us, this city is teeming with excitement and wonder, and we can’t wait for you to explore all that it has to offer. 

From cult-status cafes to nature’s marvels and other local gems, discover all that Melbourne has to offer in our comprehensive week-long travel guide! Read on for a glimpse of your next adventure 👇

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Getting Around

While there are plenty of taxis you can hail on the street, there are ridesharing options like Uber, Ola, and Shebah, an all-female rideshare service, which offer more convenience.  However, you should definitely make use of their trams and extensive train and bus networks as these tend to be more affordable and just as convenient. Purchase a Myki Card for fuss-free travel!

Day 1: Melbourne City Centre

As with most guides you’ll find online, you’ll be advised to start off your Melbourne adventure in the CBD — and with good reason! Here’s where all the magic happens and it’s where you can find some of the most iconic cafes and restaurants.

Manchester Press

Image Credits: Visit Melbourne

No trip to Melbourne is complete without a trip to Manchester Press, home of some of the most to-die-for bagels. Order the Bacon and Maple — a sweet-savoury dream machine that’ll leave you wanting more, we promise.

🕒 Opening Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 3:30 PM

📍 Address: 8 Rankins Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

The Ultimate 7-Day Melbourne Itinerary 2023: Find out more here

Queen Victoria Market

Image credits: Eater

Then, make your way towards Queen Victoria Market just a short distance away to feast your eyes and stomach on more food and fresh produce.

🕒 Opening Hours: Tues, Thurs, Fri, 6 AM – 3 PM. Sat, 6 AM – 4 PM. Sun, 9 AM – 4 PM. Closed on Mondays and Wednesdays

📍 Address: Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Shotstop Coffee & Donuts

Image credits: Concrete Playground

Continue ambling along the laneways and discover hidden gems of all stripes. Don’t forget to stop by Shortstop Coffee & Donuts for their artisanal donuts and purchase a box or two, because you’ll likely want to try them all.

🕒 Opening Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 5 PM

📍 Address: 12 Sutherland St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Hosier Lane & St. Paul’s Cathedral

Image credits: Nomad + Living

If you enjoy art, visit Hosier Lane for the iconic wall murals. Then, pay a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral just across the street to admire the Neo-Gothic architecture. Because the CBD falls within the Free Tram Zone, you can easily cover most of the attractions in the area. However, we reckon travelling by bike would be the best option — you get to look out for hidden gems and more importantly, work up an appetite!

Lucky Liu Kitchen & Bar

Image credits: TripAdvisor

Cap off your first night with a meal at the famed Lucy Liu Kitchen and Bar, conveniently located a walking distance from Hosier Lane. Order their Soft Shell Crab Jianbing and Fried Chicken Ribs, but if you’re hungry, they have omakase-style set menus too. We’d recommend making a booking ahead of time to avoid disappointment!

🕒 Opening Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 11 PM

📍 Address: 23 Oliver Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Day 2: South Melbourne

South melbourne market.

Image credits: Alto Cibum

Make a trip down south and explore one of Melbourne’s oldest suburbs. Start the day over at the iconic South Melbourne Market, where you’ll be able to enjoy an impressive variety of food and drink, from freshly baked French-style pastries to authentic Banh Mi, and even homely Turkish food. 

Grab your daily cuppa from the many roasters in the area, and explore the rest of the market. From fresh flowers to gorgeous boutiques, there’s plenty to see and do in this versatile market!

🕒 Opening Hours: Wed, 8 AM – 4 PM, Fri, 8 AM – 5 PM, Sat & Sun, 8 AM – 4 PM. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

📍 Address: 322-326 Coventry St., South Melbourne VIC 3205, Australia

National Gallery Of Victoria

Image credits: Public Galleries Association Of Victoria

Then, make your way toward the National Gallery of Victoria. While we think the permanent collection of Australian, Indigenous, and international art pieces will keep you occupied for the most part of the day, you can also expect a wide variety of special exhibits too. However, entry fees may apply to these exhibits. Otherwise, entry into the museum is free!

🕒 Opening Hours: Open daily, 10 AM – 5 PM

📍 Address: 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006, Australia

The Kettle Black

Image credits: Broadsheet

A midday snack is always in order when on holiday, so head over to The Kettle Black for their delicious selection of pastries, desserts, and their stellar coffee.

🕒 Opening Hours: Mon – Fri, 7 AM – 4 PM, Sat & Sun, 8 AM – 4 PM

📍 Address: 50 Albert Rd, South Melbourne VIC 3205, Australia

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Image credits: Visit Melbourne

Then, take a nice stroll towards the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria for some serious eye candy. Spend the rest of the afternoon walking through the 36-hectare garden and discover all sorts of plants and flowers that are native to Australia. Stay for the sunset, and catch a movie in the park with their Moonlight Cinema series. Remember to book early and bring a cosy blanket!

Naked For Satan

Image credits: Freewheel Weekends

If you’re staying in the city, make your way to Naked For Satan for a nightcap. We love its rooftop bar, delicious cocktails, and tapas-style snacks — the perfect end to a long day out! 

🕒 Opening Hours: Mon – Thurs, 12 PM – 12 AM, Fri & Sat, 12 PM – 2 AM, Sun, 12 PM – 4 PM

📍 Address: 285 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Day 3 & 4: Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

Coming from Singapore, a trip out to Melbourne is already a huge change of pace. But if you’re really looking to immerse yourself in nature and disconnect from the real world just for a little while, we’d recommend spending a couple of days out in the famed wine region and its surroundings.

Image credits: ST.ALi

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the iconic ST. ALi to fuel up for your hour-long drive out. If you’re a fan of a savoury brekkie, their Koo Koo Ca Choo hits the spot. Otherwise, their decadent Banoffee Madelines are a must-order. Don’t forget to order yourself a cuppa or two — you’ll need it!

🕒 Opening Hours: Open daily, 7 AM – 5 PM

📍 Address: 12 – 18 Yarra Pl, South Melbourne VIC 3205, Australia

Embark On A Wine Tour In Yarra Valley

Image credits: Tourism Guide Australia

Once you arrive in Yarra Valley, take your pick from over 70 wineries. If you’re a self-professed wine connoisseur, go ahead and curate your very own cellar door experience. Otherwise, there are plenty of tours you can choose from on Klook for a fuss-free experience.

Warrartina Lavender Farm

Stay for the night in one of the many hotels and Airbnbs in the vicinity before making your way out to the Dandenong Ranges for a day of peace and tranquillity in nature. Stop by Warrartina Lavender Farm en route to the national park, and admire the stunning views as you savour a variety of lavender-themed sweet treats, drinks, and snacks.

🕒 Opening Hours: Wed – Sun, 9 AM – 5 PM

📍 Address: 105 Quayle Rd, Wandin North VIC 3139, Australia

Dandenong Ranges National Park

Once you arrive at Dandenong Ranges National Park, amble along the trails that give you breathtaking views of waterfalls and mountain ranges. Don’t forget to pack a small snack to fuel your adventure!

Day 5: St. Kilda & Prahran

Galleon cafe.

Image credits:  Klook

Grab a quick breakfast over at Galleon Cafe, a cosy, unpretentious coffee house located just three minutes from our highlight of the day, the historic Luna Park. Remember to eat light because of all the exhilarating rides you’ll be taking!

🕒 Opening Hours: Fri, 6 PM – 10 PM, Sat, 11 AM – 10 PM, Sun, 11 AM – 7 PM

📍 Address: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia

Chapel Street Bazaar

Image credits: Chapel Street

Make your way over to the melting pot of cultures that is the suburbs of Prahran, located just a short tram ride from St. Kilda, where you’ll be greeted by a vibrant array of shops, bars, and cafes. Check out the Chapel Street Bazaar, and if you’re lucky, you’d be able to find some hidden gems while rifling through dozens of vintage clothing and furniture stalls.

🕒 Opening Hours: Mon – Sat, 10 AM – 6 PM, Sun, 12 PM – 5 PM

📍 Address: 217 Chapel St, Melbourne VIC 3181, Australia

Greville Street

Image credits: Chapel Street

Then, head over to Greville Street, a must-visit when you’re in Prahran. Once the epicentre of bohemian culture in Melbourne, Greville still retains its boho aesthetic, which has been a draw for many local independent retailers. Not to be missed along this charming street, include shops like Brick + Mortar Supply, Handworks Nouveau Papery, and the iconic Grenville Records.

Yoku Ono Ramen + Sake

Image credits: SBS

For a hearty dinner and a cheeky drink or two, head over to Yoku Ono Ramen + Sake. Prahran is known for its wide array of Asian cuisine, and this Japanese joint does not disappoint.

🕒 Opening Hours: Wed – Sun, 12 PM – 3 PM, 5.30 PM – 10 PM

📍 Address: 6A Anchor Pl, Prahran VIC 3181, Australia

Revolver Upstairs

Image Credits: Time Out

Finally, head over to Revolver Upstairs, a Melbourne establishment not to be missed, and prepare for an evening of fun at this highly respected and notorious party institution.

🕒 Opening Hours: Hours vary

📍 Address: Level 2/229 Chapel St, Prahran VIC 3181, Australia

Day 6: Bush Rangers Bay, Cape Schanck

If you plan to get out of the city once more but don’t intend on doing the whole Great Ocean Road trip, then Cape Schanck is a great alternative that isn’t too touristy.

Image Credits: Broadsheet

You know the drill — start your day at a cafe of choice. Today, we recommend Hardware Société for a hearty breakfast. Go for their baked eggs for a protein-packed meal or treat yourself to their fried brioche. Then, grab their coffee to-go and begin your journey down south.

🕒 Opening Hours: Open daily, 8 AM – 2:30 PM

📍 Address: 123 Hardware St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Bushrangers Bay Walking Track

The journey will only take you slightly over an hour, so this leaves you plenty of time to explore all that Cape Schanck has to offer. Head for the Bushrangers Bay Walking Track, and enjoy the gorgeous coastal scenery — a sight for sore eyes. Then, make your way to the tidal rock pools hidden amid the hulking basaltic landscape and relax to the sound of crashing waves from a distance. Don’t forget to pack lots of water and some snacks — it can get very warm. 

After a long day by the Bay, you can start to make your way back to the city. But before that, remember to fuel up! There are plenty of eateries peppered along Cape Schanck and en route to Melbourne city with small bites to help tide you through till dinner.

Image Credits: The City Lane

For some reason, fast food always tastes best after a long day out. We recommend heading over to 8bit, a retro video game-themed burger and hot dog joint that serves up some of the most delicious fast food there is. Grab the 8bit dog, a side of chilli cheese fries, and wash it all down with a Nutella milkshake, then head back to enjoy that delightful food coma.

🕒 Opening Hours: Open daily, 11 AM – 11 PM

📍 Address: 8 Droop Street, Footscray, Melbourne VIC 3011, Australia

Day 7: Fitzroy

On your last day, it’s all about taking things slow. An eclectic suburb, the Fitzroy neighbourhood is the perfect place to visit if you love all things artsy.

If you happen to be around over the weekend, pay a visit to the Rose Street Artists’ Market where you’ll get to meet talented local artists and makers selling a wide array of artisanal products — the perfect place to get some unique souvenirs for your loved ones. 

🕒 Opening Hours: Sat & Sun, 10 AM – 4 PM

📍 Address: 60 Rose St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Lune Croissanterie

Image Credits: Nice Food And Healthy

No trip to Melbourne is complete without paying a visit to Lune Croissanterie, and thankfully, there’s an outlet just a couple of minutes away!

🕒 Opening Hours: Mon – Fri, 7:30 AM – 3 PM, Sat & Sun, 8 AM – 3 PM

📍 Address: 119 Rose St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Lost & Found Market

Then, wander along the streets and check out the thrift shops in the area. We’d recommend visiting the weird and wonderful Lost & Found Market, a huuuuge warehouse full of vintage fashion, furniture, art, records, and all things quirky and kitschy.

🕒 Opening Hours: Open daily, 11 AM – 5 PM

📍 Address: 288 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Cutler & Co

Image Credits: Cutler & Co

Once you’ve worked up an appetite with all that shopping, make your way down for your final dinner of the trip. This time, we’re going fancy, paying Cutler & Co, part of Andrew McConnell’s repertoire of establishments which includes the likes of Cumulus Inc. and Supernormal, a visit. Housed in a former metalworks factory, Cutler & Co is truly an establishment not to be missed — so book early!

🕒 Opening Hours: Wed – Sat, 5:30 PM – 11 PM, Sun, 12 PM – 11 PM

📍 Address: 55/57 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Gelato Messina

Image Credits: The Weekend Edition

As we know, dessert stomach is a thing. After dinner, make your way to Gelato Messina and take your pick from over 50 different flavours, with Hokey Pokey, Pear & Rhubarb, and Coconut & Lychee our top picks. Grab your cones, sit by the road, and watch the world go by, a fitting way to end your Melbourne trip!

🕒 Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs, 12 PM – 10:30 PM, Sat & Sun, 12 PM – 11 PM

📍 Address: 237 Smith St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

A Week of Adventure Awaits In The Land Down Under

As you can tell, there are simply too many things to experience in Melbourne. So we hope that this list can help take away the stress of planning out an itinerary. And no matter if you’re off thrift shopping or drinking your weight in coffee, don’t forget to use your YouTrip Card to enjoy those wholesale exchange rates !

As Singapore’s favourite multi-currency wallet, we aim to get those pesky fees out of the way and help you save on your travels. With the best foreign exchange rates, no longer will you have to deal with those long queues at money changers! So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with promo code < YTBLOG5 > to get FREE S$5 in your account! Then, head over to our YouTrip Perks page for exclusive offers and promotions — we promise you won’t regret it. For more great tips and articles like this, join our Telegram (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here or down below.  

And while you’re at it, why not join the conversation with thousands of #YouTroopers in our very own Community Telegram Group @YouTripSquad ? Get tips and tricks to everything YouTrip including exclusive invites to exciting events and experiences, & be part of the #YouTripSquad! 💜

Stay safe and happy travels!

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Flinders Street Station, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

Getting around Melbourne

Whether you self-drive or take advantage of Melbourne’s efficient public transport system, you’ll find it easy and efficient to get around the city.

By Mark Sariban

Australia’s cities all offer clean, efficient and affordable public transport options, allowing visitors to explore with ease and comfort. Known for its historic suburban tram system, Melbourne is no exception to this rule. Jump on board any of these great transport options and discover how easy it is to get around Melbourne.

Transport in Melbourne

St Paul's Cathedral, Swanston Street, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

• Airport Transfers
• Accessibility

Melbourne offers free tram rides within the city centre. To use public transport outside of the free tram zone, you need to purchase a myki card . You can purchase a myki card from retail outlets displaying the myki sign, visitor centres and at train stations.

• Use your myki card on trains, trams and buses. You’ll need to load your card with some money to cover your fares. You can top it up at convenience stores and train stations as your balance runs low. 
• You can also purchase a  myki Explorer kit, which includes a myki card loaded with a full day of unlimited travel on trains, trams and buses in metropolitan Melbourne, handy maps and discounts on tickets to major attractions.
• To start your ride, tap your myki card on the reader when you board your selected mode of transport and be sure to tap off when you disembark.

Melbourne is serviced by two airports, Melbourne Airport (MEL) and Avalon Airport (AVV). There are several public transport options available for reaching the city from either airport.

• SkyBus express services run between 4am and 1am daily from Melbourne Airport and from early morning to evening from Avalon Airport. Both SkyBus services stop at Southern Cross Station on Spencer Street in the city. Tickets can be purchased either online or at the airport.
• You’ll find taxi ranks and rideshare pick-up areas at the front of each terminal – simply follow the signage. The journey to the city from Melbourne Airport takes around 30 minutes, or 50 minutes from Avalon Airport.

Tip:  If you’re in a group, it will be less expensive to travel from Melbourne Airport to the city by taxi or rideshare.

In Australia, airlines, trains, buses and ferries have accessible options for people using a wheelchair or mobility device.

• Melbourne Airport provides special assistance for people with disabilities and can help with baggage, getting around the airport, and getting on and off the plane. 
• The majority of buses and trains have accessible options – check the Public Transport Victoria Accessibility page for information on using public transport before your trip.

Tip: Download the City of Melbourne’s  mobility map  to easily locate accessible toilets and car parks in the city.

Getting around Melbourne on public transport

Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

Trains are a great way to visit attractions across the city and reach the surrounding suburb. Major stations in the city include Central, Flinders and Southern Cross Station. Use the Journey planner tool to find your route.

• Trains to regional destinations including Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and Albury operate on the V/Line services. You can use your myki card on all train networks.

Catching a tram is a great way to get around Melbourne while getting a feel for the city. Use the Journey planner tool to find your route.

• A Free Tram Zone operates in Melbourne city centre. If your travel is within this zone you don’t need to tap on or off with your myki card.
• The free hop-on, hop-off City Circle Tram (number 35) is a great introduction to Melbourne, with city loop services running every 15 minutes. 
• Melbourne’s suburban tram routes run in two zones, with the cost using your myki card calculated according to the zones you travel in.

The bus network is another efficient way of hopping around metro Melbourne and popular neighbourhoods. Use the Journey planner tool to find your route.

• Night Network trains, trams and buses operate throughout the night on Fridays and Saturdays.

Getting around Melbourne by car

Flinders Lane, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

Driving in Melbourne is easy and safe, but you may want to check whether your hotel charges a daily parking fee.

Melbourne is the only city in Australia with a ‘ hook turn ’ (a right-hand turn you make from the left-hand lane), so be sure to familiarise yourself with this manoeuvre if you’re planning to drive in the city.

Having a car for part of your trip may be beneficial if you plan to visit some of the stunning destinations outside of Melbourne, but you can also book tours to many of these places and leave the driving to someone else.

Tip: If you’re hiring an electric vehicle, you’ll find a map of charging stations here.

Melbourne is served by numerous taxi companies. 

• You can hail a taxi on the street (a taxi is available if its rooftop light is on) or at taxi ranks in built-up areas.
• You can also book a taxi by phoning individual companies, or by downloading an app from 13cabs or GoCatch .

Tip: You will be asked to pre-pay an estimated fare when riding in a taxi after 10pm.

Most major ridesharing platforms operate in Melbourne, including Uber , Ola and DiDi , as well as local operator GoCatch .

Tip: Female travellers can also book a ride with Shebah , a rideshare service with all-women drivers catering to women. (Adult men can use the service if they need to transport a child who requires an approved child safety seat.)

Make the most of your time in Melbourne with a guided tour . Many tour operators offer half-day and full-day driving tours of the city and surrounds, including Show Me Melbourne and Melbourne Private Tours . 

• Enjoy an emissions-free sightseeing tour of Melbourne by pedicab with Green Cabs .

Where to stay in Melbourne

Other forms of transport in Melbourne

Southbank, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

• Water taxis
• Cycling & scooting
• Williamstown Ferries offers two-hour cruises from Southbank to Williamstown, a seaport at the mouth of the Yarra River.

If you’re in town for a sporting event or a stadium concert, you can catch a water taxi from Southbank to Melbourne’s sports precinct .

Melbourne is mostly flat and has an extensive network of bike paths, making it easy to cycle around the city.

• Download an app from Neuron to access a pool of shared e-scooters across Melbourne.

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Visit Melbourne with the ultimate Melbourne Trip Planner

Things to do in Melbourne Melbourne Travel Guide Melbourne Trip Planner

Melbourne is a top destination for travelers in Australia who want to experience something different and maybe even more refined than their barbecuing beach holiday to the coast. While many destinations in Australia are known for their pristine beaches and blistering hot weather, Melbourne has a character that's hard to match. Whether you're a culture vulture or someone who appreciates the finer things in life, you'll fall head over heels in love with this unforgettable destination. Boasting a rich cultural history as well as world-famous events and exhibitions, it doesn't get any better than this. Reveling in vibrant laneways, trendy neighborhoods, and a sophisticated foodie scene; Melbourne offers something for everyone to explore! This Melbourne trip planner will help you sort out your Melbourne itineraries, what to pack, the best time to visit Melbourne, and a lot more.

Best Time To Visit Melbourne

Melbourne is a great city to visit but not everyone can decide when to go. If you are visiting for the first time, you might want to know when is the best time to visit. This city experiences hot and sunny summers from December through February, which is when most tourists travel there. But it can get quite stuffy and stifling in the summer months. The best times for a visit are March through May and September through November, which tends to be favorable conditions in terms of temperature with fewer crowds across the board!

Read more about the best time to visit Melbourne .

Melbourne Itineraries

Depending on how long you're in Melbourne for - whether it's just a day, 3 or 5 days, we have the perfect itineraries crafted for you. Go through these Melbourne itineraries and plan your stay well in advance!

If this is your first time traveling to Melbourne, we know you'd love some help planning your daily itineraries. Apart from the basic planning (flight tickets, visa, accommodation etc.), you'll need to consider your day-to-day activities - where to go, what to see, how to get there, and more. But fret not, for we are here to help.

Melbourne 1-Day Itinerary

Royal Botanic Garden

Shrine of Remembrance

National Gallery of Victoria

SEA Life Melbourne

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Melbourne Zoo

Eureka/Melbourne Skydeck

Yarra River Cruise

IceBar Melbourne

Melbourne 3-day itinerary.

Flinders Street Station

Royal Botanic Gardens

Mornington Peninsula

Breakfast at Queen Victoria Market

Packing For Melbourne

With a huge range of things to do, there's something for everyone in Melbourne. But how do you plan your Melbourne adventure? A lot of people do not know what they should pack and what they need to see. Melbourne is a place that has no limits when it comes to fashion. You will need some warm and fuzzy coats for those cool nights which might come about after the sun has gone down, but you should also bring your swimsuits in case you have time for a quick swimming session as well! Don’t forget to pack your boots, overcoat, and a few dainty winter accessories to compete with Melbourne’s moody weather.

Travel Packing Checklist

Where to stay in melbourne.

Melbourne is a city that has so much to offer. There are many different neighborhoods in Melbourne, each with its unique characteristics. If you are looking for a city that has a lot of green space, St. Kilda is the place for you. St. Kilda is one of the adventurous neighborhoods in Melbourne. It is a township located right near the ocean and boasts plenty of fresh seafood restaurants, trendy bars, and picturesque cafes. There are also many stunning old buildings, famous theaters (such as the Palais Theatre), and festivals that happen throughout the year like Viva! If you want to explore the arts, Fitzroy is the place for you. If you want to explore the nightlife, Southbank is the place for you. Melbourne has a lot to offer and all of these neighborhoods are worth exploring.

Accommodation on a Budget

Melbourne is a great city to visit, but it can be expensive to stay in Melbourne for a long period. There are budget-friendly accommodations with included breakfast and access to kitchens. Some of the cheap hotels in Melbourne are Oaks On Collins, Brady Hotels Central Melbourne, Atlantis Hotel Melbourne, YHA Melbourne Central, and The Victoria Hotel.

Melbourne is a city that has a lot to offer. Whether you are looking for some late-night food or want to go out and see some live music, Melbourne has it all. One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Melbourne has gorgeous cafes and bars on every street. You’ll be greeted by the kindest, most open-minded people you’ve ever met; a melting pot of multiculturalism just like Australia itself. The Toff In Town, Bar Ampere, Loop Project Space & Bar, Cabinet Bar, Crown Melbourne, and Queen Victoria Night Markets are some of the notable names where you will get the experience the amazing nightlife of Melbourne.

Shopping Hub

Melbourne is a bustling city with so many things to do and see. Shopping is also one of the things that many people enjoy doing in Melbourne. There are so many unique shops and a wide variety of items to choose from. It's easy to get lost in the crowd, but it's also easy to have a good time. Bourke Street Mall, Queen Victoria Market, Chadstone Shopping Center, Melbourne Emporium, Melbourne Central, Brunswick Street, and Sydney Road are some places to shop till you drop!

Kiss of Luxury

Melbourne has a lot of great restaurants, but it can be hard to decide where to go. In Melbourne, you can have the best of both worlds because there are many options for every budget. The best part about dining in Melbourne is that there are so many different kinds of food. There are restaurants with American, Italian, and Thai food, and more. The city also has a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options like Cutler & Co, MoVida, Attica, Rockpool Bar & Grill, Dinner by Heston, and The Carlton Wine Room.

Getting Around In Melbourne

Melbourne is a city with many attractions, which is why it can be difficult to get around. You can always rely on the public transport system and hop on a tram, train, or bus. To get to your destination quicker, you can purchase a Myki card, which will allow you to travel around the city using public transport. If you don't want to carry around a wallet or purse, you can also purchase a Myki card that has a built-in chip that you can swipe when you board the tram or train. To start your ride, tap your card on the reader when you board your chosen form of transport. Do make sure you tap off so that your fare is calculated correctly and you don't get charged any extra money.

Melbourne Travel Tips & Hacks

Melbourne is a beautiful city with a lot of things to do. You can walk around the city, visit some of the amazing museums, or get out and explore the surrounding areas. There are many things to do in Melbourne that you might not know about, so here are some Melbourne travel tricks and hacks.

• If you are visiting Melbourne for the first time, try to plan your trip during a weekday so that you can avoid the busy weekend crowds.
• If you need to travel around the city by public transport, make sure you have a map and know where you are going.
• When it comes to food, Melbourne is a great place to try out new cuisines. Try something new and find your favorite!
• Make sure you bring some extra cash with you because Melbourne has a lot of great shopping opportunities.
• Melbourne is a very bike-friendly city so if you don't have your bike, rent one for the day!
• Use your Myki card while boarding public transport. One can easily recharge it on the go and it’s convenient too.
• Pack light and be ready for four seasons as the weather in Melbourne can be extremely moody.
• Embark on your journey early to get free train rides.
• If you’re headed to South Australia or a place known as an epicurean capital, then you should look forward to finding some free food. If you time it just right, you could end up getting a bucket load of goodies from brands looking to advertise their products in hopes of reaching the people most likely to enjoy them.
• As a traveler, always keep with you at all times your passport and credit or debit cards. Also, remember to take note of the hotel or hostel's official address and contact details so that you can find your way back later.

5 Best Day Trips From Melbourne

Melbourne is a city that is popular with tourists, but many hidden gems are waiting to be discovered. Yarra Valley is famous for its wine production and it is also home to many wineries. It is a beautiful drive through the countryside and you will be able to experience the beautiful scenery and nature. There are plenty of wineries to visit along the way, so make sure you have your camera ready to capture all the amazing sights. One of the best day trips from Melbourne is the Great Ocean Road. The Great Ocean Road is a scenic drive that will take you through the twelve Apostles, limestone caves, and the Twelve Apostles Lighthouse. These are some of the places that you should include in your Melbourne itinerary.

Check out our list of 5 best day trips from Melbourne :

FAQs: Melbourne Trip Planner

Is melbourne worth visiting.

Melbourne is a bustling city with so much to offer. From the amazing food, shopping, and nightlife, to the beautiful architecture and stunning beaches, Melbourne is a city that anyone would be lucky to visit.

What is the  best time to visit Melbourne?

The best time to visit Melbourne is from November to February when the weather is cooler and the locals are out enjoying the outdoors.

What are the top things to do in Melbourne?

One can wander through Melbourne’s laneways, explore vibrant art and culture scenes, discover the city’s Aboriginal culture and embrace the eccentric nightlife of Melbourne. Plan your Melbourne itineraries judiciously before you pack your bags and set upon the journey!

What is the cheapest way to get around Melbourne?

The tram is the cheapest, most convenient, and most-popular mode of transportation in Melbourne.

What should you pack for Melbourne?

While packing for Melbourne, make sure you have a balance of warm and lightweight clothes in your bag. Sundresses or skirts, cotton trousers, sandals, comfortable walking shoes, sunhat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are must-haves while packing for Melbourne.

Which is the best place to stay in Melbourne?

St. Kilda is one of the adventurous neighborhoods and the best place to stay in Melbourne.

See more Melbourne. Save more money.

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Amulya Chintaluri

Amulya's love for travelling was a natural consequence of her moving around so much as a child. Throw in her love for writing into the mix, and there's no better way to spend her time. A person who collects hobbies like Infinity Stones, she loves reading, sketching, drawing, painting, dry pressing flowers, music, cooking, eating cake, watching TV and sleeping.

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The City of .

Melbourne is the place where people come to be inspired. It has it all: street art, vibrant markets, colourful laneways, stunning vineyards, beautiful beaches and all round incredible vibes. It’s a city that needs to be experienced.

Experience Melbourne

A Global Sporting Capital

Love sport? Love Melbourne. Tennis, F1, Cricket, AFL & Rugby, it’s all going on.

A Foodie’s Paradise

Hidden bars, coffee culture, quirky cafes and charming restaurants, it has it all.

A Great Starting Location

With the Great Ocean Road to the West, and East Coast to the North – it’s perfect.

City of Arts

Live music, street art, comedy, galleries, there’s a reason Melburnians are never in.

Our Melbourne Tours

8 days / 7 nights, welcome to melbourne.

The Award Winning Welcome to Melbourne tour is our OG tour. This tour has over 1,000 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ reviews on Google.

5 Days / 4 Nights

Great ocean road (add-on).

One of the most iconic road trips in the world. Experience it with your new found travel family straight after your tour!

4 Days / 3 Nights

Melbourne mini pack.

Short on time but want to see the city and still get work and travel help? Our Melbourne Minipack is for you!

Melbourne Travel Packages

52 days / 51 nights, the hemsworth.

Melbourne, Surf & East Coast

Melbourne & East Coast

Travel Is All About Meeting People

Want to know more about our melbourne tours.

We love to hear from you and help you with your travel plans. If you have any questions at all then feel free to get in touch. Not only can you message us, we also offer free travel advice calls meaning you can have a real conversation with a real person that’s been in your shoes.

• [email protected]
• (03) 7065 9970
• 6b 300 King Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000
• 812B, George Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000

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