Things To Do in Melbourne
Melbourne is known for its unique architecture, thriving art scene, and vibrant café and music culture. Often referred to as the cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne’s narrow lanes are adorned with impressive street art and hide charming cafés and beer gardens.
The city offers diverse cultural activities, including art exhibitions and live music, making it a favourite destination for many. Visitors can easily spend more than a week here without running out of things to do Melbourne.
Melbourne has a distinct European ambience and is favoured by backpackers and young travellers seeking a relaxed atmosphere.
I have compiled a list of the top attractions and activities in Melbourne to assist you in organizing your trip, saving money, and maximizing your time in this enjoyable city.
The Royal Botanic Gardens
Spanning 86 acres, the Royal Botanic Gardens is a sanctuary for over 8,500 varieties of plants, ranging from native flowers and bushes to international trees. One of my go-to activities when I’m in Melbourne is to roam these gardens leisurely. Easily accessible from the city’s core, it’s an ideal location for a peaceful walk, some relaxation, or even to catch up on some reading. The main visitor centre offers free guided strolls and self-led audio tours.
Located at Birdwood Ave, you can reach them at +61 3-9252-2300 or visit their website at rbg.vic.gov.au. The gardens are open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; entry is complimentary.
The National Gallery of Victoria
Nestled within Federation Square is the National Gallery of Australia, holding the distinction of being the country’s largest, oldest, and most frequented art museum (attracting over 3 million visitors annually). The gallery boasts a collection of over 75,000 pieces, encompassing modern and contemporary art, sculptures, paintings, and contributions from aboriginal and indigenous talents. A comprehensive tour would roughly take a couple of hours, making it one of the city’s premier complimentary attractions.
180 St Kilda Rd, +61 3-8620-2222, ngv.vic.gov.au. Open every day from 9 am-5 pm. Entrance is complimentary (there might be a fee for special exhibitions).
Ride the City Circle Tram
The City Circle Tram offers a cost-free way to hop on and off between notable sites in Melbourne, such as Federation Square, the Old Treasury Building, Parliament House, and the Princess Theater. A recorded narration will provide background on each significant stop. This is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the city’s main attractions without any financial burden.
The tram runs every day from 10 am-6 pm, with extended hours to 9 pm from Thursday to Saturday.
Step into the Immigration Museum
Inaugurated in 1998, this museum, situated in the historic Old Customs House, tells the poignant tale of Australia’s migration. Starting in 1788, European settlers made their mark, reshaping the island, at times to the detriment of its native inhabitants. Their stories, risks, and adventures truly resonated with me.
📍 400 Flinders St, +61 3-8341-7777, Immigration Museum. Open daily 10 am-5 pm. The entry fee is 15 AUD.
Uncover the hidden gem of Como House and Gardens
Prepare to be captivated by this awe-inspiring estate, a harmonious blend of Italianate and Australian Regency architecture, standing tall for over 160 magnificent years.
It’s among Melbourne’s finest historical homes, providing a window into 19th-century elite Australian society. Guided tours are an option for those eager to delve into its past.
Williams Rd & Lechlade Ave, +61 3-9656-9889, Como House and Gardens. Gardens open Mon-Sat 9 am-4 pm, Sun 10 am-4 pm. Garden entry is complimentary.
Take a Haunting Journey Through Pentridge Prison
For thrill-seekers, a tour of Pentridge Prison offers intriguing insights into Australia’s criminal history. The prison once housed infamous criminals like Ronald Ryan, Chopper Reed, and Ned Kelly.
Embark on an enchanting 1.5-hour journey, immersing yourself in the wonders of our captivating tours, all for the incredible price of just 48 AUD!
Embark on a Wine-Tasting Adventure
Wine tours are a big deal around here. The Mornington Peninsula, a short 45-minute drive from Melbourne, is known worldwide for its vineyards, hosting over 40 wineries. Day trips to the also-popular Yarra Valley are frequently available. Full-day trips range between 150-225 AUD per person.
Unwind at Federation Square
Situated right on the path of the complimentary City Circle tram and directly opposite Flinders Street Station is Federation Square. Inaugurated in 1968, this expansive plaza stretches over 8 acres, making it a prime spot for observing the daily hustle and bustle. It’s a favourite spot of mine to have lunch and immerse in the city’s ambience. Beneath the square near the river, you’ll find a selection of restaurants and alfresco bars. The square is a hub of activities, especially during the summer, with various events taking place.
Visit the Melbourne Museum to experience a rich cultural immersion
The Melbourne Museum offers a broad overview of Australian societal history, native cultures, scientific achievements, and environmental issues.
Step into the vibrant world of the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Center, an enchanting hub that immerses you in the rich tapestry of Aboriginal art, culture, and history.
Family-friendly exhibits are also available. Rotating exhibits come through regularly.
11 Nicholson St, +61 3-8341-7777, museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum. Open daily 10 am-5 pm. Admission fee is 15 AUD.
Unwind at the Peninsula Hot Springs
Located 90 minutes from Melbourne, the Peninsula Hot Springs offers a therapeutic experience.
There are 50 thermal pools reputed for their healing properties. For the daring, there’s a ‘fire and ice experience,’ starting with a sauna and followed by cooling off in Australia’s first ice cave.
Experience the magic of Melbourne with our half-day tours, complete with transportation and admission, all for just 150 AUD!
Visit Flinders Street Station
Established in 1854, Flinders Street Station stands as an iconic structure and a well-known gathering spot in the heart of Melbourne. Showcasing Victorian-style architecture and grand clocks, the station was the world’s most frequented railway hub during the 1920s and is believed to be the most bustling suburban train station in the Southern Hemisphere today.
Visit St. Kilda Beach
Make your way to St. Kilda Beach if you’re keen to swim, soak up some sun, or catch a breathtaking sunset. Though the water may be a bit chilly for some, the beach is expansive and offers a direct view of the west, promising excellent sunset vistas. If you’re a certified diver, the nearby diving spots, which include caves, are worth checking out.
Enjoy a Moonlit Film at the Botanical Gardens
During summer months, open-air screenings are hosted nightly in the Royal Botanic Gardens. Visitors are encouraged to pack their own refreshments and snacks for a comfortable picnic while enjoying the films. It’s similar to a drive-in movie experience sans the vehicle. Do keep an eye on the weather forecast and bring along a blanket and sweater. The event will be cancelled for heavy rain, so make sure to pack a raincoat just in case.
Check moonlight.com.au for scheduling and ticket prices, starting at 25 AUD.
Embark on a Tour of Street Art
Begin your journey with a guided exploration of street art. The tour Melbourne Street Art Tours offers is highly recommended from my experience. Though the price tag is 75 AUD, the fee supports local artisans. This tour gave me a nuanced understanding of Melbourne’s vibrant artistic culture, making it a must-do activity.
Alternatively, if you’re looking to save, opt for a complimentary city stroll. I’m Free Walking Tours provides several free guided walks that offer both fun and educational insights into Melbourne’s history. Don’t forget to tip your knowledgeable guide at the conclusion of the tour!
Dive into the Café Culture
Though tea is my beverage of choice, I can’t help but admire the city’s vibrant café scene. People from all walks of life come here to enjoy a cup of coffee, perhaps a Melbourne ‘Magic’ — a unique blend of espresso with just the right amount of milk, standing somewhere between a café latte and a cappuccino. Origin stories say the Flat White was born in Sydney, but Melbourne has made it its own. For a deeper dive, join the Café Culture Walk, and later, settle down with a gripping novel in your newfound favourite café.
Experience Nightlife in St. Kilda
St. Kilda is the go-to spot for experiencing Melbourne’s vibrant after-dark scene. The neighbourhood is filled with affordable eateries, bars, and nightclubs. Nomads Melbourne is a favourite for those who want to mix with fellow tourists and locals. It features a well-liked bar downstairs that offers budget-friendly drinks.
Explore the Queen Victoria Market
The Queen Victoria Market is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest outdoor marketplace. Spanning two entire city blocks, it combines elements of a traditional food market and a flea market. During weekdays, the food hall attracts most visitors, but at weekends, there is an expanded array of outdoor vendors.
Don’t miss out on free wine tasting at Swords Wines in the food hall. I even picked up a couple of wine bottles for leisurely park sipping. Also, the jam doughnuts are a longstanding market tradition you’ll want to try.
The market also hosts a Summer Night Market with live music and a variety of food stalls every Wednesday from 5 pm-10 pm between November 23 and March 15.
Visit qvm.com.au for seasonal timings and events.
Venture Along the Great Ocean Road
Day trips from Melbourne often include a journey along the scenic Great Ocean Road. The 150-mile stretch features coastal cliffs and stunning sea views. Popular stops include the 12 Apostles, monumental limestone formations. Tours might also offer forest walks and lunch.
Guided day tours begin at around 125 AUD.
Phillip Island
A two–hour drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a popular weekend destination for those seeking beach activities. Notable attractions include the daily penguin march, a koala sanctuary, and a sizable offshore seal colony. While possible as a day trip, an overnight stay is advisable.
Full-day trips start at approximately 115 AUD and include wildlife spotting.
Explore Fitzroy Gardens
Established in 1848, Fitzroy Gardens spans over 65 acres and is one of Melbourne’s most renowned and historically significant gardens. Designed to mimic the English gardens the early settlers missed, it was transformed from a swamp into the sprawling garden it is today. The garden boasts walking trails, greenhouses, quaint cottages, and lush flower beds.
Wellington Parade, +61 3-9658-9658, fitzroygardens.com. Open 24/7. Free entry.
Conclusion
Melbourne offers many attractions, including museums, parks, and beaches. There is no shortage of activities in this city. It is widely regarded as a favourite destination in Australia. The food, cafes, beaches, and parks are all reasons to love Melbourne. For those looking to explore beyond the city, a Grampians tour from Melbourne is the perfect way to experience Victoria’s stunning natural beauty. It is a city that never fails to impress.
FAQ
What are the best free attractions in Melbourne?
The Royal Botanic Gardens, National Gallery of Victoria, and the City Circle Tram offer top-quality experiences without an entry fee.
Where can I experience Melbourne’s art and culture?
Visit the National Gallery of Victoria, explore street art tours, and spend time at Federation Square’s galleries and events.
What day trips can I take from Melbourne?
Popular options include the Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island for penguin parades, and the Mornington Peninsula’s wineries and hot springs.
Which Melbourne markets are worth visiting?
The Queen Victoria Market is a must for fresh produce, artisan goods, and seasonal night markets with live music and street food.
How can I explore Melbourne’s history?
Step into the Immigration Museum, tour historic Como House and Gardens, or take a guided visit through Pentridge Prison’s storied past.
Related Tours
