tourist places in melbourne

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Melbourne

1. Relax at the Royal Botanic Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Birdwood Ave, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria

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

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

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

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

NGV International

Address: St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria

The Ian Potter Centre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Brunton Ave, East Melbourne, Victoria

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

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

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

Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank, Melbourne, Victoria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton, Victoria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Elliott Ave, Parkville, Victoria

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

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

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

Address: Wellington Parade, East Melbourne, Victoria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Birdwood Ave, Melbourne, Victoria

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

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

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

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

Address: Harbour Esplanade, Docklands, Victoria

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

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

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

Address: Queen and Victoria Streets, Melbourne, Victoria

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

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

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

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

Address: Spring Street, East Melbourne, Victoria

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

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

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

Address: 400 Flinders Street, Melbourne, Victoria

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne Victoria

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels:

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

Budget Hotels:

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

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

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

More on Australia

The 14 best experiences in Melbourne

Oct 26, 2023 • 8 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Photograph Melbourne's murals and street art

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Relax for an afternoon at Abbotsford Convent and Gardens

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

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

6. Promenade St Kilda’s vibrant foreshore

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

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

7. Go green at CERES Community Environment Park

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

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

8. Book in for Melbourne’s best dining experiences

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

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

9. Go explore Melbourne’s western regions

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

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

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

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

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

11. Discover Melbourne’s history at the Melbourne Museum

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

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

12. Learn about the Anzacs at the Shrine of Remembrance 

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

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

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

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

14. Sample gourmet treats at Queen Victoria Market 

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

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

This article was first published Jun 28, 2021 and updated Oct 26, 2023.

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Melbourne, Victoria

Guide to Melbourne

Aboriginal name:  Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)

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• Getting to Melbourne
• When to visit
• Accessibility

Melbourne is Australia's mecca for all things trendy and tasty. The city offers up exquisite dining, exhilarating sport and abundant opportunities to experience art.

A perfect blend of rich cultural history and new age trends is waiting for you in Melbourne. As the sun goes down, the city comes to life with a vibrant dining scene as well as events and exhibitions. Explore its bustling laneways, trendy neighbourhoods and sophisticated foodie scene to get a taste of what Melbourne is all about.

Melbourne stands on the ancient grounds of the Kulin Nation of the Wurundjeri people. For the Kulin Nation, Melbourne has always been an important meeting place for events of social, educational, sporting and cultural significance. Experience the culture through a range of heritage walks, cultural tours and galleries.

• Traditional name of Central Melbourne: Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)
• Indigenous Peoples of Central Melbourne: Wurundjeri people
• Traditional lands of Greater Melbourne: Kulin Nation
• Traditional languages: There are four traditional languages in Narrm. Bunurong (Bun-wurrung), Taungurung (Tung-ger-rung), Wathaurong (Wadha-wurrung) and Dja Dja Wurrung (Jar-Jar-Wur-rung).
• How to say g’day in Wathaurong: Wominjeka

Getting to Melbourne is easy with flights arriving direct to two airports. 

• Melbourne Airport at Tullamarine (MEL) is 22km (14mi) from the city and services international and domestic arrivals
• Avalon Airport (AVV) is 55km (34mi) from the city and services international and domestic flights 
• Hire cars, taxis, rideshares and a shuttle service are available from both airports

Getting around  is just as easy as finding a great cup of coffee in Melbourne. The city offers clean, reliable and affordable public transport services. There is even a free City Circle tram line with historical commentary.

Despite having four distinct seasons,  Melbourne's weather  is known for being a bit unpredictable. Summers are generally warm and winters cold, but just ask a local and they’ll tell you that it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day. So whenever you decide to visit, be sure to pack layers and carry an umbrella in your day bag. 

• High season: Spring and summer (November to February)
• Low season: Winter (June to August)
• Don’t miss: Melbourne’s world-class festivals and events

Melbourne is a dynamic city with plenty of accessible options for accommodation, attractions , restaurants , cafés and shopping . 

• Arrival: Disability assistance is available at Melbourne Airport, including for those with hidden disabilities .
• Getting around: Most Melbourne buses and trains have accessible options – check the Public Transport Victoria website  for information on using public transport.
• Accessible experience highlights: Several cultural institutions cater to travellers with accessibility and sensory needs, including the National Gallery of Victoria and Scienceworks .
• Helpful resources: Travellers Aid Australia provides mobility equipment hire and recharge points, while the City of Melbourne’s mobility map makes it easy to locate accessible facilities.

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31 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

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

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

Updated: July 16, 2023

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

Hosier Lane

Flinders st, melbourne.

Highly reccommended

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

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

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

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

Block Arcade

282 collins st, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

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

Flinders St Station

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

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

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

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

Little Bourke St, Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

City Circle Tram

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

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

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

Federation Square

Swanston st & flinders st, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eureka Skydeck

7 riverside quay, southbank.

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

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

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

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

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

State Library of Victoria

328 swanston st, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27-29 Tattersalls Ln, Melbourne

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

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

National Gallery of Victoria

180 st kilda rd, melbourne.

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

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

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

Old Melbourne Gaol

377 russell st, melbourne.

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

Melbourne River Cruise

Yarra river, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

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

Rooftop Bar

Swanston st, melbourne.

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

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

Queen Victoria Market

Queen st, melbourne.

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

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

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

Melbourne Museum

11 nicholson st, carlton.

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

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

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

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

Hot Air Balloon

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

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

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

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

Parliament House

Spring st, east melbourne.

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

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

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

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

The Yarra Valley

Regional victoria.

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

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

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

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

Cooks Cottage

Fitzroy gardens, east melbourne.

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

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

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

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

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Brunton ave, richmond.

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

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

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

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

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

Shrine of Remembrance

Birdwood ave, melbourne.

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

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

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

Royal Arcade

335 bourke st, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

The Yarra Trail

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

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

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

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

Phillip Island

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

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

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

Peninsula Hot Springs

140 springs lane, fingal.

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

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

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

Royal Botanic Gardens

Birdwood avenue, melbourne.

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

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

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

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

Melbourne Zoo

Elliott ave, parkville.

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

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

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

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

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

Dandenong Ranges

Great dividing range.

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

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

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

St Paul’s Cathedral

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

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

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

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

Related posts

The 29 Best Laneways in Melbourne

Where to see Penguins in Tasmania

5 Best Mexican Restaurants in Melbourne

The 24 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne

The 7 Best Themed Bars in Melbourne

5 Best Parks & Gardens in Melbourne

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Melbourne tourist attractions and places to visit that don't suck

You don't have to be a tourist to enjoy these popular Melbourne experiences

When you live in a city, you tend to avoid the popular tourist traps and attractions in favour of things that are off the beaten path like hidden bars or secret gardens . And while a lot of tourist attractions are simply money sinks, many of them are popular with visitors for a reason. 

That's why we've rounded up 27 experiences that we think are actually worth your while and showcase the best that Melbourne has to offer. 

For more inspo, work on your bucket list with  100 things to do in Melbourne before you die , or munch your way through the city with the 50 best restaurants in Melbourne .

An email you’ll actually love

Best Melbourne tourist attractions

1.  Zip across the Yarra in a GoBoat

• Things to do

You’ve had lunch by the river, now try lunch  on  the river. GoBoat is an electric boat hire service currently running in Melbourne that makes it super easy to have picnics at sea (well, a river in this case).  GoBoat’s five-metre-long boats seat up to eight people and don’t need a boating licence to operate. The best part? They come equipped with a built-in wooden picnic table in the middle of the boat.

2.  See the city from above at Melbourne Skydeck

If you think you've got a head for heights, the Melbourne Skydeck will seriously test you. The Edge is a glass box that extends three metres out from the 88th floor of Eureka Tower, and as you walk out, things get a bit freaky with cracking glass sound effects designed just to scare you senseless. T he sound effects are fake, but seeing the city from the highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere is an awesome and essential experience.

3.  Watch the footy at the MCG

• Sport and fitness
• East Melbourne

It doesn’t get much more Melbourne than cheering on your favourite team at the ‘G, piping hot meat pie in one hand, cold beer in the other. But AFL isn’t the only thing that’ll get your blood pumping at the Melbourne Cricket Ground; as the name implies, cricket is the go during summer, and the fascinating Australian Sports Museum is open throughout the year.

4.  Soak away your troubles at Peninsula Hot Springs

Craving a bit of down time? Drive down to the Mornington Peninsula and soak your cares away in the soothing thermal pools of the Peninsula Hot Springs. Spend time in cave pools, get massages and chill out on day beds – you’ve earned it.

5.  Catch an event at Federation Square

Melbourne’s central community hub is, shall we say, divisive – its geometric design isn’t loved by all. But architecture aside, it’s always buzzing with events, screenings, talks, performances and activities. Whether it’s a weekend craft market, an exhibition at NGV Australia or a panel talk, you’re almost guaranteed to find something to pique your interest. Events still run despite the Metro Tunnel works, so don't be put off by that huge construction site on the corner of Flinders Street and St Kilda Road.

6.  Wander round the Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens is the place to escape the madness of the CBD without actually leaving it. It's on the edge of the city, and more than 8,500 plant species call this place home. There lush lawns and glittering lakes that are  perfect for revitalising the mind and soul with a quick stroll, or for lingering longer with a weekend picnic. Tours, walks, workshops and talks are on offer to teach you more of the intricacies of the gardens, while the Aboriginal Heritage Walk takes you on a journey into the rich history of the Kulin nation.

7.  Paddle a kayak and see Melbourne's skyline from the water

• Walks and tours

Kayak Melbourne specialises in guided kayak tours that take you along the Yarra River between Victoria Harbour and Melbourne Park. You can choose to soak up the sunshine with the afternoon City Sights Kayak Tour, or you can explore our waterways by night with the Moonlight Kayak Tours. The nighttime tours include an on-water dining experience, and you'll be able to get some Instagram-worthy shots of the Melbourne skyline as the sun goes down. 

8.  Take a break at the State Library

• Attractions

The State Library of Victoria is a cultural landmark that houses an incredible amount of books, as well as several exhibitions and galleries with a lot of history. The library was established in 1856 and is a grand presence on Swanston Street with interior spaces to match. The La Trobe Reading Room is a six-storey-high domed room that is magnificent to look at. Along with books and artworks, the State Library houses thousands of heritage items, maps, manuscripts and newspapers. Digital material is also available for readers to access. And the best part? All of this is free. 

9.  Wine and dine in the Yarra Valley

It’s amazing how quickly suburban Melbourne gives away to the lush, rolling green hills of the Yarra Valley . It’s one of Victoria’s premier food and wine destinations and just over an hour from the Melbourne CBD. The valley is awash with wineries offering tours, cellar doors and gourmet dining experiences: here are the 11 best wineries in the Yarra Valley . Even those looking for more ‘child-friendly’ attractions won’t leave disappointed. You can keep the kids (little and big) quiet with a trip to the heavenly Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery .

10.  Get up early for the Queen Victoria Markets

Every great city has a great market, and the open-air Queen Victoria Market does Melbourne proud. The place is rammed full of veteran stallholders who are passionate about fresh produce and more than happy to talk you through their wares. The fresh produce, meat and a variety of dairy and small goods mean it's a working place that's popular with locals , but the market has become a must-visit for tourists, too. Cafés fight for space around the outside and heave with brunchers every weekend. Closing hours vary depending on the day, so make sure you check before visiting. And be sure to get a hot jam doughnut before you leave.

11.  Hit the seaside at St Kilda

St Kilda is defined by two main strips, Fitzroy Street and Acland Street, with the famous St Kilda Esplanade providing a pleasant link between the two. While Fitzroy Street is all retail shops, gyms and fancy restaurants, Acland is a haven for cake lovers . The cake shops and bakeries lining the street have been making Melbourne a sweeter place since 1934, and are still serving up Eastern European classics thick and fast: make sure you try the plain cheesecake from Europa Cake Shop , the vanilla slice at Le Bon Continental Cake Shop and the chocolate Kugelhaumpf at Monarch .

12.  Throw yourself in the cells at the Old Melbourne Gaol

This historical building is a monument to the bad old days of capital punishment, with most people visiting here to see the somewhat gruesome  armour and death mask of notorious Aussie outlaw Ned Kelly. But there's plenty else to see and do in this fascinating, creepy old place. Ex plore the gaol, experience a modern-day arrest procedure and stand in the dock of the Old Magistrate's Court. The gaol first opened in 1845, which means it's one of the oldest buildings in Melbourne. Unsurprisingly, a building this old, where 133 people were hung, has its fair share of ghost stories - and the Old Melbourne Gaol regularly hosts tours.

13.  Explore the historic Abbotsford Convent

You can feel the weight of the past as soon as you step into the grounds and look up to the gothic spires of the Abbotsford Convent. The complex began as a convent in the late 1800s and was also a commercial laundry, orphanage and aged care facility. These days, it’s a hub for artists, makers, community radio broadcasters and teachers – as well as a beautiful place to explore. Check out the work of local artists in the galleries, then roam the green hills and gardens.

14.  Imbibe some culture at National Gallery of Victoria

The National Gallery of Victoria is made up of two venues - the NGV International and NGV Australia. Both are impressive spaces, filled with world-class art, so you could easily while away an entire day at each. The International's permanent collections include a Rembrandt, a Bonnard and a Tiepolo, plus a much-loved water wall at the entrance. Over at Fed Square, the Ian Potter Centre houses art from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians from the colonial era to the current day.

15.  Go retro on Brunswick Street

Melbourne’s famed alternative side is in full force in  Fitzroy , the city-centre hub of all things hip and kooky. Wandering up Brunswick Street, Fitzroy’s main strip, you'll be confronted by everything from trendy bike shops and cool hairdressers, to second-hand bookshops and hometown fashion heroes such as Gorman , Búl ,  Kloke and Alpha 60 . It's the vintage clothes stores, though, that Brunswick is most celebrated for. Pre-loved clothing specialists like Hunter Gatherer and Vintage Sole are just a few of the spots to head for that new leather bag, pair of vintage slacks or ripper denim jacket from the '80s you've been after forever. 

16.  Wander around the Royal Exhibition Building

The Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens is one of the world's oldest remaining exhibition pavilions (and was the first building in Australia to be named on the UNESCO Heritage List). Aside from having a fascinating history, the REB is drop-dead gorgeous inside and out. Swing by to snap the façade any time (try getting a pic from in front of the fountain or from in between the many tree-lined pathways nearby). 

17.  Check out all six floors of Curtin House

If you do one thing in Melbourne, we recommend hitting the extremely Melbourne Curtin House on Swanston Street. This six-storey vertical lane houses some of Melbourne's most interesting tenants. There's Metropolis specialist bookshop , Human Salon the hairdresser, bar/restaurants Cookie and Mesa Verde , high fashion mavens Dot Comme , the swanky bar and band room at the Toff in Town , and Melbourne's crowning glory Rooftop Bar right at the top. Visitors can practically get the full Melbourne experience without setting foot outside the building.

18.  Hunt out Melbourne's hidden bars

Fact: Melbourne does hidden bars like no other city. And yes, sorry to all the Melburnians reading this, but we're about to reveal some of our underground drinking secrets. We've got one behind a fridge door ( Jungle Boy ) and a bookshelf ( Loch and Key ), a secret rooftop bar above a Chinese restaurant ( Goldilocks ) and in a basement at the end of an alley ( Beneath Driver Lane ). Sure, it might feel more like a scavenger hunt than a night out hunting these places out but,  for a drink with a difference,  it's definitely worth it.

19.  Let your hair down in Chinatown

Melbourne's Chinatown district was first established back in the 1850s  during the Victorian gold rush era , making it the longest continuous Chinese settlement in the western world. As such, it's also the oldest Chinatown in the southern hemisphere. This vibrant quarter of town is lined with karaoke bars, duty-free stores and so many fantastic little restaurants, that it's hard to know which one to choose. Located along Little Bourke Street and its surrounding lanes and streets, we recommend dumplings at Shanghai Village, mains at Supper Inn , and desserts at Secret Kitchen . 

20.  Ride along the Yarra Trail

• Port Melbourne

Itching for a new adventure? Saddle up and explore the city on two wheels. We recommend the easy-ish ride along the Yarra Trail. Starting in Eltham, this trail is a pretty satisfying 22-kilometre ride towards Fairfield that follows the flow of the Yarra. It’s flat most of the way with loads of leafy corridors to pass through. Closer to the city the trail is sealed and your necessary pit stops include the Heide Museum of Modern Art and the colonial-era Fairfield Boathouse for some scones.

21.  Expand your mind at Melbourne Museum

A glorious, sprawling space filled with themed displays, interactive areas, IMAX cinemas, postmodern art and no end of surprises, Melbourne Museum rewards first-time visitors and repeat patrons equally. For recent initiates, the sheer scope of the permanent galleries (including one just for children) can be intimidating, but for those who aren't intent on digesting it all on one visit, the greatest treasures – including Phar Lap’s preserved body and a fascinating exploration of the history of mental health treatment in Australia – can be taken in over several visits.

22.  Go on a road trip on the Great Ocean Road

Head southwest from Geelong and you’ll soon see it: the faded log arch announcing your arrival at the Great Ocean Road. Sandwiched between dense coastal eucalypt forests and the ocean, the road is one of the most spectacular drives in Australia. Technically the road starts just outside of Torquay but the best ocean vistas happen between Airey’s Inlet and Apollo Bay , where you’ll drive right along the precipice of the coastal cliffs. There are regular opportunities to stop at beaches and koala sightings are not uncommon. Travel off-season to avoid crowds – the road is just as great in the cooler months.

23.  Go penguin spotting at Phillip Island

• Wimbledon Heights

A two-and-a-half-hour trip from Melbourne is  Phillip Island : a chunk of coastal heaven famed for its penguins and seals. The craggy shoreline is broken up by numerous beaches perfect for swimming, surfing and seal watching: there are more seals living on the island than humans. However, giving the seals a run for their money in the cute stakes are Phillip Island’s Little Penguins. Every night, like clockwork, you can watch the tiny penguins come ashore at Summerland beach and march like little, feathery soldiers into their sandy burrows.

24.  Meet the animals at Melbourne Zoo

Australia’s oldest zoo is an inner-city oasis that's home to hundreds of creatures great and small, housed in lovingly cared for, stimulating environments. Watch seals and penguins gliding through blue water in the Wild Sea exhibit, then head to the sprawling Orangutan Sanctuary, where a family of intelligent orang-utans swing from tree to tree. And don't miss the Trail of the Elephants; an immersive Southeast Asian village and garden where you can learn about and see the gentle giants up close.

25.  Take in the sights and shops of Lygon Street

There are so many things to love about Carlton’s famous strip, which has long been Melbourne’s Little Italy. Gone are the irritating restaurant touters; these days it's all about top-notch bars and eateries like Heartattack and Vine and Milk the Cow , pizza at DOC or Tiamo . Culture-lovers flock to Cinema Nova , the huge Readings Bookstore and independent theatre La Mama .

26.  Immerse yourself in digital art at the Lume

• South Wharf

The Lume is a cutting-edge digital gallery and immersive art space created by Melbourne's Grande Experiences permanently located within the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre .  Instead of looking at paintings on walls or sculptures on plinths, art is projected onto the walls to make you feel like you've stepped inside the paintings themselves.  The popular digital gallery's current exhibition is titled Connection , and features  First Peoples art and culture.

27.  Rock out at a live gig

Melbourne is not only Australia's live music capital, it's also the   best city in the world for live music   with 553 live music venues in 2018 (that's one for every 9,500 Melburnians). Cherry Bar has now reopened in Boney's old location and there are plenty of other haunts to check out. The Tote , the Gaso and the Corner Hotel are some of the best live music pubs, while the Toff in Town is great for a boogie. We even have   a healthy population of slick jazz clubs . 

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

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Check out my Other Melbourne Guides, Too!

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne CBD

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

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

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

Parliament Building

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

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

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

Treasury Building Museum

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

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

Street Art Laneways

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

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

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

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

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

St Paul’s Cathedral

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

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

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

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

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

Ian Potter Centre

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

Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) Museum

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

Koorie Heritage Trust Cultural Centre

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

Flinders Street Train Station

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

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

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

Yarra River + Yarra River Cruise

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

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

Immigration Museum

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

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

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

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

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

Food Laneways

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

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

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

Melbourne Town Hall

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

Block Arcade + Royal Arcade

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

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

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

Old Melbourne Post Office/ H&M

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

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

Bourke Street Mall

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

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

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

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

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

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

State Library Victoria

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

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

Old Melbourne Gaol

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

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

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

Queen Victoria Market

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

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Southbank/South Melbourne

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

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

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

Royal Botanic Gardens

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

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

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

Shrine of Remembrance

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

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

NGV – National Gallery of Victoria

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

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

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

State Theatre

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

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

Eureka Tower/Skydeck

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

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

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

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

Southbank Promenade

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

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

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

Crown Casino

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

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

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

DFO South Wharf + Melbourne Convention Center

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

South Melbourne Market

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Carlton

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

Melbourne Museum

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

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

Royal Exhibition Building

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

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

Melbourne Zoo

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

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

Lygon Street

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

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Fitzroy + Collingwood

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

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

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

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

Brunswick Street

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

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

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

Rose St Market + Fitzroy Mills Market

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

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

Smith Street

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Abbotsford

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

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

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

Main Yarra Trail

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

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

Abbotsford Convent/Collingwood Farm + Market

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

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

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

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Richmond + East Melbourne

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

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

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Stadium

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

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

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

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

Olympic Precinct

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

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

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

Swan St + Bridge Rd

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

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

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

Cook’s Cottage – Fitzroy Gardens

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: Docklands

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

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

Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

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

Book discounted tickets here! 

Marvel Stadium

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: St Kilda

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

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

St Kilda Pier + Penguins

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

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

Catani Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

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

St Kilda Esplanade Market: Sundays

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

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

Places to Visit in Melbourne: South Yarra/Prahran

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

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

Chapel Street

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

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

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

Prahran Market

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

Places to Visit Near Melbourne – Melbourne Day Trips

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

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

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

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

Great Ocean Road

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

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

Yarra Valley Wine Region

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

Phillip Island Penguins

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

Puffing Billy + Dandenong Ranges

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

Visit the Mornington Peninsula

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

Visit a Music Festival

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

Enjoyed this Melbourne travel guide? Pinned it yet? 

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23 Spectacular Melbourne tourist attractions you can’t miss

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

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

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

The best Melbourne tourist attractions

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

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

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

Melbourne Skydeck (Eureka Skydeck)

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

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

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

Eureka 89 restaurant

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

Southern Hemisphere’s highest viewing deck!

Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006

Opening hours: Daily 12 pm – 10 pm

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

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

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

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

Address: King St, Melbourne, VIC 3000

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

Australian Sporting Museum – Melbourne sightseeing

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

Address: MCG, Brunton Ave, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 5 pm

The MCG – Tourist Attractions Melbourne

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

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

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

Address: Brunton Ave, Richmond VIC 3002

Opening hours: This will depend on your activity

Shrine of Remembrance

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

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

Address: Birdwood Ave, Melbourne VIC 3001

St Kilda Beach – Melbourne tourist spots

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

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

St Kilda Beach Little Penguin colony

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

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

Melbourne Sights – Luna Park

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

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

Address: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182

Opening hours: Daily 11 am – 10 pm

Southbank – Melbourne places to visit

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

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

National Gallery of Victoria

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

Address: 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006

The City Circle Tram

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

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

Cruise the iconic Yarra River

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

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

Take a scenic 1 hour cruise on the Yarra

With dinner and drinks

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

Queen Victoria Market – Melbourne City attractions

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

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

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

China Town Melbourne

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

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

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

Old Melbourne Gaol

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

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

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

Address: 377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening hours: Wed-Sun 10 am – 5 pm

Melbourne Museum and The Exhibition Building

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

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

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

Address: 11 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053

Opening hours: Daily 9 am – 5 pm

ArtVo – Melbourne tourist places

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

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

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

Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 6 pm

Sightseeing in Melbourne – Fitzroy Gardens

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

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

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

Federation Square – a famous place in Melbourne

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

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

Flinders Street Station – sightseeing Melbourne

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

Tour Parliament House

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

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

Melbourne Immigration Museum

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

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

Address: 400 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening hours: Daily from 10 am – 5 pm

Melbourne Zoo

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

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

Overnight camping at Melbourne Zoo in tents!

Address: Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052

Arcades and famous laneways – Melbourne sightseeing

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

Melbourne Street art – what not to miss in Melbourne

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

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

Some Melbourne street art lanes are:

• Hosier Lane

Secret galleries, hidden shops, and lane way cafés.

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

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

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

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

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

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

More best places to visit in Victoria inspiration

Fun things to do with kids in Victoria

All the best things to do in Bright – weekend itinerary

11 of the very best Victorian beaches

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

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Melbourne

39 BEST Places to Visit in Melbourne (2024)

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

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

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

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

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

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#1 – National Gallery of Victoria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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#3 – The Great Ocean Road

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

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

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

#4 – The Queen Victoria Market – A great place in Melbourne if you love to shop!

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

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

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

#5 – Eureka Skydeck

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

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

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

#6 – The Astor Theater

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#9 – The Curtin House

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

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

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

#10 – Chinatown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#13 – The Melbourne Museum

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

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

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

#14 – The Cherry Bar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#16 – Lygon Street

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

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

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

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#17 – Abbotsford Convent

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

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

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

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#18 – Federation Square

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

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

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

#19 – The MCG

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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#21 – The Crown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#23 – Chapel Street

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

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

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

#24 – The Immigration Museum

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

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

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

#25 – St. Paul’s Cathedral

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

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

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

#26 – Degraves Street

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

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

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

#27 – Lune Croissanterie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#30 – Centre Place

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

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

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

#31 – The Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#34 – The Arts House

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#36 – Heide Museum of Modern Art

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#39 – The Forum

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

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

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

Get insured for your trip to Melbourne!

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

Which places in Melbourne can you visit today?

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

What can you do in Melbourne for free?

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

Are there any places to visit in Melbourne for families?

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

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

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

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

Alexandria Zboyovski

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Melbourne   Travel Guide

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11 Best Things To Do in Melbourne

Updated April 14, 2021

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

• All Things To Do

Shrine of Remembrance Shrine of Remembrance free

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

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

Port Campbell National Park Port Campbell National Park free

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

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

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne free

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

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

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Yarra Valley Yarra Valley free

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

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

State Library Victoria State Library Victoria free

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

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

National Gallery of Victoria National Gallery of Victoria free

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

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

The Block Arcade The Block Arcade free

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

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

City Circle Tram City Circle Tram free

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

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

Small-Group Phillip Island Penguin Parade Day Tour from Melbourne

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Melbourne Cricket Ground Melbourne Cricket Ground

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

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

Melbourne Museum Melbourne Museum

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

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

Melbourne Zoo Melbourne Zoo

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

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

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10 Top Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on October 3, 2023

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

10. Royal Exhibition Building [SEE MAP]

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

9. Fitzroy Gardens [SEE MAP]

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

8. Hosier Lane [SEE MAP]

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

7. Melbourne Zoo [SEE MAP]

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

6. Federation Square [SEE MAP]

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

5. National Gallery of Victoria [SEE MAP]

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

4. Melbourne Cricket Ground [SEE MAP]

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

3. Eureka Tower [SEE MAP]

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

2. Queen Victoria Market [SEE MAP]

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

1. Royal Botanic Gardens [SEE MAP]

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

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Places to Visit in Melbourne

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places in Melbourne

Eureka Tower Melbourne (Melbourne Skydeck)

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

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

Luna Park Melbourne

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

Top Experiences To Do in Luna Park Melbourne

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

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

Top Experiences To Do in Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Healesville Sanctuary

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

Top Experiences To Do in Healesville Sanctuary

Yarra Valley, Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

Top Experiences To Do in Yarra Valley, Melbourne

Peninsula Hot Springs

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

Top Experiences To Do in Peninsula Hot Springs

Melbourne Cricket Ground

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

Top Experiences To Do in Melbourne Cricket Ground

Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

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

Top Experiences To Do in Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

Best of Sydney

iFly Melbourne

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

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child Melbourne

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

Escape Room

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

Flinders Street Railway Station

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

St Paul's Cathedral Melbourne

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

National Gallery Of Victoria

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

Royal Botanical Gardens Melbourne

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

Federation Square

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

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Melbourne Zoo

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

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

Top Experiences To Do in Melbourne Zoo

Puffing Billy Railway

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

Top Experiences To Do in Puffing Billy Railway

St kilda beach.

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

Melbourne Museum

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

Crown Melbourne

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

Royal Exhibition Building

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

Shrine Of Remembrance

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

Old Melbourne Gaol

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

Best of Australia

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

Collins Street

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

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

South Melbourne Market

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

Enchanted Adventure

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

Maru Koala and Animal Park

Maru Koala and Animal Park is a captivating wildlife haven located in Grantville, Victoria.

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach in Melbourne is a picturesque coastal gem, renowned for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere.

Top Experiences To Do in Brighton Beach

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

Best of Gold Coast

Arts Centre Melbourne

A theatrical experience awaits you at Southbank Arts Centre Melbourne, world-renowned as a hub of performing arts. With magnificent architecture and dedicated zones for each of the performing arts, Arts Centre Melbourne offers guided tours explaining its history and culture. From pop music artists to ballet dancers and exhibitions to stage plays, drop by Arts Centre Melbourne for a memorable time.

People Also Ask About Melbourne

Which are the best cultural places in melbourne, which are the best places to stay in melbourne, which are the romantic places to visit in melbourne, how can we spend 2 days in melbourne, what is melbourne famous for, what is the best time to visit melbourne, which are the best tourist places to visit in melbourne, which are the best adventurous activities in melbourne that we can book via thrillophilia, which are the best day tours in melbourne that i can book from thrillophilia, which are the best melbourne attractions tickets that i can buy from thrillophiilia, how to reach melbourne.

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

How many days are enough to explore Melbourne?

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Welcome to the vibrant city of Melbourne! Known for its cultural diversity, stunning architecture, and culinary delights, Melbourne is a must-visit destination for any traveller. This e-book serves as your comprehensive guide to exploring the city's top attractions, neighbourhoods, dining and nightlife scene, shopping experiences, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, events and festivals, and practical information you need to make the most of your trip. "Travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer." - Anonymous

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The Eloquent Avian: A Tale of an Australian Magpie And Willpower.

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17 Places to Eat in Melbourne: Top Restaurants & Pubs!

T here’s not many guarantees in life, but this is one of them – there is no shortage of great places to eat in Melbourne, and you could have enough options for all tastes and budgets to last a lifetime.

Melbourne is a food lovers paradise and just one of the many reasons why I love this city.

One of the great things about Melbourne is the many neighborhoods who have their own cultural focus.

From the vibrant markets offering fresh produce to the craft cocktails served at rooftop bars in the bustling CBD to the relaxed and intimate dining experiences in downtown Melbourne, there is something for every mood.

If you’re new to the city and not sure how to narrow down the options, then below are some of the best places to eat in Melbourne from our personal experience!

1. Tiamo – Lygon Street, Carlton

2. brunetti – lygon street, carlton, 3. metro burgers – degraves street, 4. creatures of habit bar & bandroom (formerly little creatures pub) – fitzroy, 5. vegie bar, fitzroy, 6. queen victoria night markets, 7. chinatown – little bourke st, cbd, 8. loving hut – victoria street, richmond, 9. dim sims at south melbourne market, 10. riverland bar & cafe – yarra river, 11. transport hotel – federation square, 12. high tea at the langham hotel, 13. the boiling crab, melbourne cbd, 14. st kilda beach and acland street cake shops, 15. south bank, 16. picnic in a park, 17. north east china family house – cbd, locals suggestions for places to eat in melbourne, map of these places to eat in melbourne, popular food tours of melbourne, save it on pinterest, the best places to eat in melbourne.

We’re not big fans of fine dining, and look for value for money and family friendly locations above anything else, but we’ve tried to include a dining experience for every taste.

Below are places to dine in Melbourne that we enjoyed, plus further down below are some HOT TIPS from our readers.

• Hours: 12.00 – 9.00pm daily
• Address: 303 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053
• Price range: $20-$40 per meal

Lygon Street is that famous Italian area of Melbourne, and home to many popular restaurants and cafes.

With so many choices it can be hard to narrow down a selection. Luckily our local friend with an Italian background new the place for us – Tiamo .

Synonymous with traditional Italian cuisine, Tiamo has a focus on pizza, but I enjoyed another Italian specialty, spaghetti marinara, and Caz said her risotto was to die for.

Going there with a group, why not order a few pizzas, some pastas and risotto and share everything.

The bustling vibe is great, feels very homely and genuinely Italian. And for it being a touristy part of the city was impressed with their reasonable prices.

• Hours: 6.00am – 10.00pm week days, 6.00am – 11.30pm weekends
• Address: 380 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053

Speaking of Lygon street, Brunetti is a Melbourne institution.

A place to indulge in an Italian style coffee from the bar or get a quick breakfast of pancakes, eggs and other healthy options.

It’s said they serve 20,000 coffees per week, and has been serving cakes, pastries, biscuits and gelati since 1985.

You’ll also find excellent crepes, chocolates and savoury dishes.

We had breakfast with a friend and couldn’t believe how big and popular this place is. And the pastries are like art work.

• Hours: 11.30am – 8.00pm Tuesday – Sunday, Closed Monday
• Address: 12 Degraves Street, Melbourne

If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat, then you can’t go wrong with a tasty burger place.

One of the best burgers in Melbourne is made at Metro Burger, which makes fresh, succulent burgers with a variety of flavors and toppings.

They whip up Australian favs, including kangaroo, emu and crocodile burgers, and has a classic industrial style decor with only a few tables – so get there early to grab a seat.

• Hours: 4.00pm – 12.00am Wednesday, 4.00pm – 1.00am Thursday – Sunday, Closed Monday and Tuesday
• Address: 319 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
• Price range: $1-$20 per meal

I’m a big fan of the Creatures of Habit Bar & Bandroom craft beer, and was excited when we got yet another tip from a local Melbourne friend to hit up this pub for lunch.

Fitzroy is a great neighbourhood to explore on foot, and we timed our visit so that we could recharge with a bite to eat (and a drink) at this pub / Melbourne Dining Hall.

The interior is open plan and inviting, kid friendly, and the quality of their beer was matched with yummy food making for a great pub lunch experience.

• Hours: 11.30am – 9.00pm Monday – Thursday, 11.30am – 9.30pm Friday, 11.00am – 9.30pm Saturday, 11.00am – 9.00pm Sunday
• Address: 380 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065

If you find yourself in Fitzroy, and you should because it’s a cool neighbourhood to explore, grab a bite to eat at Vegie Bar.

We’ve been there twice now and it satisfies our health conscious mind, and our taste buds. We also love how it has indoor and outdoor seating. Grab a seat on the patio on a nice, sunny day!

Be prepared to wait a little in line though, as they we’re lined up out the door on both our visits. The sandwiches and wraps are very popular!

• Hours: 6.00am – 3.00pm Tuesday – Thursday – Sunday, Closed Monday and Wednesday
• Address: Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000,

The Queen Victoria Markets are not just a place to go shopping, the Wednesday Night Market serves up a global street food extravaganza with offerings from all over the world.

It was like any night food market you’d find in Asia, buzzing with atmosphere and cheap (for Melbourne) street food.

The kids tucked into a crepe, Caz had a goat curry and I demolished a kangaroo burger.

The night market runs every Wednesday from November – March.

• Hours: 24 hours
• Address: Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000

If there’s a Chinatown in town, we’re there! Rarely are we disappointed, and our bank balance is always happy.

One place in Melbourne we kept going back to was the popular Camy Shanghai Dumpling and Noodle Restaurant .

It’s not for the posh and fancy, it’s a genuine Chinese experience with below par service, but their pork dumplings were a highlight and cheap too!

• Hours: 5.00pm – 9.00pm Monday, Wednesday – Friday, 12.00pm – 9.00pm Saturday and Sunday, Closed Tuesday
• Address: 10/242 Victoria St, Richmond VIC 3121

Just walk up and down Victoria street in Richmond and you’ll have oodles of cheap Vietnamese restaurants and cafes on offer, as well as Malaysian and Chinese.

Not knowing which one to try, a local tip we got was the vegetarian-friendly Loving Hut , which turned out to be a good recommendation with not only cheap and tasty food, but that family friendly service.

Trams travel along Victoria Street from the city, or jump on the train to the North Richmond station.

• Hours: 8.00am – 4.00pm Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, 8.00am – 5.00pm Friday, Closed Monday, Tuesday and Thursday
• Address: 91 Cecil St & Coventry Street, Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205

I was told the Dim Sims at the South Melbourne Market were famous, and judging by the lunchtime crowd they were worth a try.

They were not wrong, so good in fact I went back for seconds.

Well priced and quick service added to the positive experience. Open Wed, Fri, Sat and Sunday. For transport options click here.

• Hours: 12.00pm – 9.00pm Monday – Tuesday, 12.00pm – 10.00pm Wednesday, 12.00pm – 11.00pm Thursday, 11.00am – 11.00pm Friday and Saturday, 11.00am – 10.00pm Sunday
• Address: Federation Wharf Vaults 1-9, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Price range: $40-$60 per meal

On a sunny day in the city a great place for lunch, and a beer, is the Riverland Bar & Cafe on the banks of the Yarra River.

With prime position overlooking the river, the Princess Bridge and the many rowers doing their thing, it felt like we were back in London in the summer.

They have a kids menu and room for kids to move with its open beer garden configuration. And located right above Riverland Bar is the happening Federation Square.

• Hours: 12.00pm – 10.00pm Monday – Thursday, 12.00pm – 12.00am Friday, 11.30am – 12.00am Saturday, 11.30am – 10.00pm Sunday
• Address: Transport Hotel, Ground Level Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3000

Speaking of Federation Square, another of our pub favourites is the Transport Hotel .

With a beer garden that overlooks Fed Square and the live music stage – this place quickly became a fave of ours with the Sunday carafes of white sangria and jugs of cider.

Not to mention the pints of James Boags and the yummy nachos!

• Hours: 10:00am – 12:00pm, 1:00pm – 3:00pm, 4:00pm – 6:00pm daily
• Address: 1 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia
• Price range: $20-$40 per person

This was actually more of a treat for our kids, as the High Tea theme at the time of our visit to the Langham Hotel was based around the newly released Disney movie FROZEN.

But I must say, I’m a fan of all things cakes and old English favourites – as well as tea and coffee – and thoroughly enjoyed this as a family treat.

The Langham Hotel is known for its signature high tea with three different offers.

• Hours: 12.00pm – 9.30pm daily
• Address: Cajun-spiced crawfish, oysters, shrimp & other shellfish.

For the lover of CHEAP seafood that’s also delicious, head to The Boiling Crab in Melbourne CBD.

Of course, the specialty is crab, but you can also find oysters, shrimp and fried fish baskets.

Pro tip: Don’t wear anything too fancy, as these are meals designed to make a mess!

Who knew Melbourne could offer a spectacular sunset?

St Kilda is its most famous beach and one of our favourite experiences was simply grabbing a takeaway pizza from St Kilda Pizza House , a bottle of wine, and sitting on the beach watching the sun go down.

A cheap and family friendly dinning experience you can’t beat!

Acland Street is the place to go in St Kilda for cafes and restaurants, but also for the famous cake shops.

I dare you to walk past without the temptation of indulging!!

Southbank is a pretty location along the Yarra River with great views back over the city, and what seems like endless dining and bar options.

We walked this location many times as we were staying at the nearby Mantra Apartments , but never actually ate here.

But a local tip we got was to try the Blue Train cafe for a cheap eat with views of the city.

Looking for a cheap eat in Melbourne?

Why not grab some fresh produce of fresh cheeses, fruits and other fresh ingredients from Queen Victoria Markets and head to either Fitzroy Gardens or Carlton Gardens for a picnic?

Or, how about take the family for a picnic in the Botanic Gardens or sit on the banks of the Yarra and watch the world go by.

• Hours: 11.30am – 3.00pm, 5.00pm – 9.30pm Monday – Wednesday and Saturday, 11.30am – 3.00pm and 5.00pm- 10.00pm Thursday and Friday, Closed Sunday
• Address: 302 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000

Not all that appealing from the outside, and don’t come here for the service – they actually forgot to bring out one of our meals – but in terms of flavour and quantity the food here is delicious and cheap.

The dumplings are their specialty, and the noodles were a hit with Kalyra. Casual and kid friendly, North East China Family House is located at Flinders Lane in the city.

Below are some hot tips from our readers – you can’t beat local advice:

Steve Davidson says:

• Lucky Coq (Chapel Street, Prahran) offer very cheap pizzas, and I am a huge fan.
• For stylish, I’d recommend Eureka 89 and Vue De Monde mainly because I love a good view from high above the city. For stylish yet casual, I’d recommend anywhere on Little Collins Street from Swanston Street, up to Spring Street.
• Terra Rosa is a personal favourite of mine along this strip.

Kim Bibby says:

• Sake Restaurant and Bar , which is located in Southbank under the arts centre & alongside the Yarra River, is a great place serving modern and classic Japanese cuisine. It has a lovely atmosphere and I find the food/service superior to the famous Nobu at a much more reasonable price.
• Chiba in Moonee Ponds is also fantastic for Japanese cuisine, atmosphere & service. We often start with a drink at the Valley Cellar Door across the road. Actually, the Valley Cellar Door is awesome as well….great selection of wines to buy AND you can BYO food or take away!
• I enjoy Gingerboy , it has a nice modern atmosphere and excellent hawker style Asian Food.
• Red Spice Road whips up some amazing flavours, presentation and atmosphere. The Lamb Shank main is to die for.
• Meat & Wine Co is a good place to go for a good steak.
• Donovans at St Kilda for a more intimate dining room experience. I enjoy eating there on a winters afternoon for lunch with a bottle of red….love the atmosphere & views.
• There is a little French restaurant, Bistrot d’Orsay , on Collins Street that I go to every year with a friend before the St Pauls Carols with the Melbourne Philharmonic & Choir. We start with a glass of champagne (French of course) with the AMAZING pate for appetizers. We have the Duck for mains washed down with a beautiful red. Same routine every year. It’s expensive, but it is awesome!
• Pure South in South Bank has a large menu that features only Tasmanian Produce. We had THE best steak we have ever had here.

Want a deeper insight into the food and culture of Melbourne. Why not try some of these Melbourne food tours?

More Melbourne Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for your trip to Melbourne? Check out these other guides!

• 8 Exciting Places to visit near Melbourne (Less than three hours away)
• Why have we not heard of Wilsons Promontory National Park?
• 16 Highlights of the Great Ocean Road Drive in Australia
• 6 Beaches in Melbourne to Visit Once You’re Done with the City
• There’s Something About Marysville, Victoria
• 11 things to do in Melbourne with kids

What about you? Do you have any tips on places to eat in Melbourne?

The best new hotels in Sydney and Melbourne

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The Capella Sydney is a place of history and culture. Photo / Timothy Kaye

Who boasts the latest and greatest new hotels to wow guests in 2024 - Melbourne or Sydney? With a flush of new openings, Melbourne-based writer, Michelle Tchea tries to take an unbiased approach

When it comes to rivalries, Melbourne and Sydney have a pretty competitive fight on their hands.

While everything is friendly - we challenge each other on what some may consider trivial things like sports, culinary prowess, and also best beaches - we are quite serious about who ends up on top.

The friendly rivalry between the two Australian cities is very much tongue--in-cheek. Us Melburnians don’t fear Sydneysiders because we know we are superior. Perhaps I’m biased being born and raised in the beautiful Garden City.

However, I’m happy to see that our affectionate love/hate relationship for each other has made both our cities more alluring, enticing and exciting for travellers who choose to visit here - especially when it comes to hotels.

In the last couple of years, both cities have seen a boom in hotel openings . Post-pandemic, luxury properties have opened up across the country - pushing Melbourne to be the country’s largest hotel market for the first time - overtaking Sydney in a category which it has dominated for more than 23 years.

As the cities go head-to-head and try to exceed expectations, we’re seeing an exciting hotel rivalry. Here are the best newcomers to check out in each city.

Melbourne hotels

Ritz-Carlton

A lofty hotel offering sweeping views of Melbourne is now found in Australia’s tallest building and most luxurious hotel: The Ritz-Carlton. After opening two years ago, Melburnians finally have a five-star luxury hotel to rival Crown Towers which has been catering to Melbourne’s elite for the last 30 years. It is no longer the most elegant, most classy and most sought after luxury experience in town with the presence of the Ritz-Carlton looming high above. The luxury urban retreat has a private Ritz-Carlton Club, which caters to the most discerning travellers who want a 24-hour butler service, as well as access to an expansive spa on the 64th floor equipped with a steam room, sauna and vitality pool - whatever catches your fancy. But the piece de resistance is the dining. Cameo is the place for great cocktails and level 80 offers you the best afternoon tea in Melbourne right now, but real foodies will gravitate to Atria where chef Michael Greenlaw perfects sustainable and seasonal ingredients - taking them to new heights (no pun intended) with seemingly very little effort. Choose from handpicked mud crab, dry-aged duck and a chocolate manjari dessert - just don’t look down if you’re afraid of heights.

ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/melrz-the-ritz-carlton-melbourne/overview

READ MORE: What it’s like to stay at The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne

W Melbourne

If you’re looking for culture in the inner confines of your hotel room - stay a night (or two) at W Melbourne. Opened in 2021, the hotel takes its cue from the famous Melbourne laneways - street art is found splashed out on the hotel walls, colourful murals are in public spaces and there’s a slight buzz around the property with it being tucked in one of Melbourne’s most popular streets: Flinders Lane. You can’t beat the location and if you are a foodie - you will love the closeness to some of Melbourne’s hottest restaurants . However, you really don’t have to leave the hotel for a great meal, the hotel has it all: start with a pre-dinner drink at Curious with live DJ acts and stiff cocktails which change every four months in the hotel’s slightly hidden underground bar, before heading up to Lollo for a casual dinner showcasing some of Australia’s finest ingredients like grilled octopus and fresh-caught snapper . If you feel like indulging in Melbourne’s exciting melting pot culture, have an intimate Omakase dining experience at Warabi. The nine-course dinner tasting menu takes you from land to sea with wagyu beef simmered in a soy-broth to grilled eel prepared on a Hibachi BBQ - be sure to choose the Expressionist sake and wine pairing for the complete experience.

marriott.com/en-us/hotels/melwh-w-melbourne/overview

The Interlude, Pentridge

How brave are you? When it comes to superlative experiences, The Interlude, Pentridge takes the cake. The former prison was recently converted into a luxury five-star hotel and stands as one of Australia’s most luxurious urban retreats. Only 19 suites exist in this beautifully transformed property where four cells have been converted into premier rooms for weary travellers to indulge in. But while the rooms boast marble bathroom floors, comfy Dreamcatcher beds and a locally sourced mini-bar, the hotel amenities make it hard to stay in the inner confines of your room (no pun intended). There is the Olivine wine bar with a very impressive wine list and the hotel’s only restaurant: North and Common, headed up by new chef Abhi Dey who worked in our very own the Sugar Club, Auckland, before coming to Melbourne. Late night dwellers who don’t like to sleep can either take part in the hotel’s private tours of the former prison or take a warm dip in the subterranean pool.

theinterlude.com.au

Sydney hotels

Some say this is the most exciting hotel to open in Australia and it’s hard to argue with the rumoured $1billion W Sydney setting a whole new standard on Sydney’s Harbour. Located on the other side of the Bridge and Opera House (away from the crowds yet still just a 25 minute walk to iconic landmarks), the W Sydney is a cultural destination meant for locals and travellers alike to mingle, drink cocktails and even swim on the lifestyle hotel’s rooftop pool, Wet. With its location on the cusp of Chinatown, by the marina and also just a short six-minute walk into the Sydney CBD, the hotel pays tribute to its surroundings with a marine life vibe in the hallway, cool graffiti art in the restaurant, BTWN, and also an urban hideaway found in the Away spa - perfect for manicures, pedicures and a deep tissue massage. The hotel is deeply proud of its design and has an energetic team behind it. “At W Sydney, we channel the boundless energy of our beautiful harbour city and its culture of inclusivity with a tuned-in curious attitude - amplified through the always-on programming and locally inspired design native,” says newly appointed general manager Titus Rosier.

marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sydwh-w-sydney/overview

Capella Sydney

Sitting in the Sandstone Precinct, just minutes from the Sydney Harbour Bridge, is the Capella Sydney. More than just a hotel, the property stands as a place of history and culture with the original inhabitants, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation - one of the oldest custodians of the land being honoured in the hotel’s activities that all guests can enjoy free of charge. Showing respect for the Indigenous heritage on which the luxury property stands on, the hotel private wellness sessions and also evening sessions discuss stories detailing Australia’s past - all of which are best enjoyed with a cocktail in hand. There are three dining options here: Brasserie 1930, McRae Bar and Aperture where dinner, late-night drinks, as well as afternoon tea can be enjoyed, respectively.

capellahotels.com/en/capella-sydney

The Porter House

Located in a 1870s heritage-listed building, the 36-storey building with 122 guest rooms and suites sits idly on Hyde Park - perfect for morning walks and afternoon strolls. The hotel offers quiet elegance with an almost urban feeling oozing through the walls of the historical property. A place for urban dwellers who want to make Sydney feel like home during their short holiday in the city, the hotel restaurant Henry’s Bread and Wine and also Dixson & Sons restaurant are both destinations for people who want to indulge in homegrown Aussie ingredients - helmed by chef Emrys Jones who likes to keep things local with Yamba prawns and Murray cod all on the menu.

porterhousehotel.com.au

Crown Sydney

The first six-star luxury property on Sydney’s Harbour is none other than the lofty Crown Sydney Towers. All the experiences are here for the flashiest stay in Sydney: a glittering infinity pool, luxurious interiors and even a home-made pasta palace: A’mare. Celebrities apparently all choose to stay at Crown Sydney with Taylor Swift the most recent guest. The hotel staff are quite hush-hush about her stay but let’s assume she had sushi at Nobu, enjoyed a T-bone steak at Woodcut and celebrated her last show at Oncore by Clare Smyth. Then again, maybe she just sat around her suite and admired the views of the harbour at 75-floors above water.

crownsydney.com.au

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