Looking for things to do in Melbourne? Discover the top attractions, events, and hidden gems in this vibrant city. Plan your Melbourne adventure today!
Certain must-do activities should be noticed whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident of Melbourne. Melbourne is often ranked among the world’s most livable cities, and we have the data to support this claim. If you give some of these experiences a chance, you’ll come to the same conclusion.
Melbourne offers a diverse and vibrant culture with many attractions, activities and dining options.
Experience the beauty of nature at the Royal Botanic Gardens
The garden contains diverse plant species, lakes designed for relaxation and well-maintained lawns.
Melbourne has the Royal Botanic Gardens in the middle of the city. The gardens are easily accessible and perfect for picnics or a change of scenery for lunch. The extensive grounds ensure you won’t have to compete for a good spot.
Some recommended activities include taking a boat ride for Punting on the Lake or enjoying a picnic in the gardens around Ornamental Lake.
See Melbourne's sunrise from a hot air balloon
Hot air balloons can be seen flying over both the countryside and the city of Melbourne.
Going on a balloon flight at sunrise is worth it if you can wake up early. There weren’t many people around then, and floating over the city in the dawn light. Feels surreal. Depending on the day’s conditions, the balloon’s starting, travelling, and landing locations are always a surprise. You might see familiar Melbourne locations from above or discover new ones.
Please take advantage of the opportunity to experience a flight over the Yarra Valley, as it is equally impressive.
You can enjoy a Gimlet at Gimlet
This restaurant in Cavendish House is known for its sophisticated and delicious versions of its namesake cuisine.
If you enjoy Gimlets, this particular one is worth trying. It is made with Tanqueray gin, a three-citrus cordial, a splash of Moscato and Geraldton Wax. It is an excellent drink while enjoying the surroundings and imagining yourself in The Great Gatsby.
Sit at the bar and watch head bartender Cameron Parish and his team work their Magic. If you need help deciding what to order next, chat with Parish; he can help you find your perfect drink.
Take a look at the sheds at Queen Victoria Market
Queen Victoria Market is an open-air market with experienced stallholders who are enthusiastic about fresh produce and are willing to provide information about it.
The market is popular with locals for fresh produce and has become a tourist attraction. It offers a wide variety of items, including clothes and accessories. It is essential to check the market’s opening hours before visiting, as it is closed on Mondays and Wednesdays.
The American Doughnut Kitchen van offers hot jam doughnuts for sampling. These doughnuts are made with a perfect amount of crunchy oil; the dough is flavoured with vanilla, filled with a sticky and sweet dollop of strawberry jam and generously covered with sugar.
Discover Degraves Street, a famous laneway in Melbourne
Degraves Street is considered one of the best in a city known for its laneways and arcades.
The lane is a Parisian-inspired street connecting Flinders Lane and Flinders Street, featuring several cafes with outdoor seating. Enjoying a glass of red wine before browsing the artisan stationery store Il Papiro for a unique gift or personal item is recommended.
Be sure to try the delicious housemade gelato from Pidapipo.
Travelling along the Great Ocean Road is a memorable experience
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Road on an unforgettable tour. Discover stunning coastal landscapes, majestic cliffs, and iconic landmarks.
The Great Ocean Road tour is a popular tourist destination in Victoria, starting in Torquay and ending near Warrnambool.
This stretch of road offers various opportunities to connect with nature and engage in activities such as driving, walking, horseriding, surfing, sailing or cycling.
The drive takes about four hours without stops, but it is advised to take breaks along the way. There’s just too much happening along the coast not to. Many options are available to explore the Great Ocean Road tour, such as taking a day trip, staying for the weekend, or even considering a permanent move.
Enjoy a timeless movie at the Astor Theatre
The Astor is an Art Deco-inspired movie house in Melbourne, continuously welcoming patrons since 1936. It holds the distinction of being the city’s final solitary-screen cinema.
This theatre showcases various films spanning different genres, including recent hits, age-old classics and indie creations. Additionally, it serves as a venue for film festivals and distinctive events, positioning it as a hub for cinephiles.
Patrons are urged to use the reduced ticket prices provided on certain weekdays; however, contacting the establishment for verification is advisable.
Discover Melbourne's First Peoples at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Bunjilaka is a venue located within the Melbourne Museum. It was created to allow Aboriginal people to share and interpret their cultural heritage with Indigenous and non-Indigenous individuals.
Visitors can explore the rich cultures of Indigenous Australia through engaging exhibitions on traditional performances, storytelling rituals and artworks. This museum is highly recommended for a comprehensive experience.
One should not miss the Deep Listening space, where Victorian Aboriginal people share the stories of their culture from ancient times to the present day.
Delight in an opulent opera at the State Theatre
Whenever an illustrious opera graces the city, its grandeur is typically unfurled at the awe-inspiring, subterranean State Theatre, equipped with a stage of eight residential homes in breadth.
Ponder over the thought of indulging in an opera. It might not resonate with all, but venturing into the experience can be gratifying. The mesmerising attires, detailed stagecraft, and captivating acts might leave an impression on you.
Seize the chance to attempt tallying the numerous brass receptacles affixed to the theatre’s overhead expanse. Whispered tales suggest a count nearing 75,000, though authenticating this figure could be daunting.
Contemplate embarking on a day journey to the Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley tour, recognised as Victoria’s top wine region, is celebrated for its undulating verdant landscapes, vine patches and historical farmhouses. This picturesque spot is situated less than sixty minutes from the Central Business District.
The tasting rooms of the valley’s vineyards welcome guests every weekend, and the vineyard eateries are emerging as sought-after meal spots outside Melbourne. A few notable regional establishments are TarraWarra Estate, Maddens Rise and Rochford Wines. Moreover, sampling the cheese from Yarra Valley Dairy during your stay is a suggestion worth noticing.
Take advantage of a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery for complimentary samples. It comes with high endorsements.
Board a tram
Melbourne’s tram system offers a distinct and user-friendly way for tourists to traverse the city, with a significant segment of the service available without charge within the metropolitan boundaries.
In the heart of Melbourne, the tram service is a handy transportation means for those keen on visiting attractions in the city centre or delving into the nearby suburbs.
A suggested activity is embarking on the Route 96 tram from St Kilda to East Brunswick, coursing through Bourke Street. At halt 16, you can relish the renowned croissants at Lune, while stop 145 offers a chance to witness fairy penguins at St Kilda Beach.
Savor a parma
This pub classic features a crunchy chicken schnitzel adorned with Napoli sauce, ham slices, and gooey cheese. Its plant-based variant usually substitutes the chicken with either eggplant or faux meat and is generally paired with fries or a salad for the health-conscious, or sometimes both.
In a 2020 poll by Time Out, readers crowned this crispy delight as Melbourne’s top dish. It’s vital to emphasise accurate spelling and articulation: it’s parma ending with an ‘a’, not parmi ending with an ‘i’. This clarification is aimed at Geelong and the nation, highlighting their mistaken usage.
Melbourne has a profound affection for parmas, evident by its frequent appearance on many pub menus. The metropolis even celebrates parma-centric events and competitions, establishing itself as an ideal locale to indulge in some of the finest pharma.
Try Magic Coffee, a popular blend in Melbourne
A Magic is crafted from steamed milk combined with a double ristretto, resembling a flat white but presenting a more harmonious milk-to-coffee proportion. It’s pertinent to mention that requesting this beverage outside of Melbourne might lead to puzzled expressions.
Melbourne prides itself on its vibrant coffee culture. Ample choices exist for a quality coffee just around the corner. Yet, opting for a Magic promises a distinct and unforgettable brew. This beverage stands out as a rarity, offering a conversation starter.
Sample a Magic at renowned Melbourne coffee spots like Industry Beans, Captains of Industry, or St Ali.
Guests can swim in the rooftop pool at the Adelphi Hotel
The rooftop pool of the Adelphi Hotel has rapidly gained fame as one of Melbourne’s most snapped swimming locations.
A pool section features a clear glass bottom jutting over Flinders Lane. This design lets you observe individuals below as you submerge. The pool deck atop the hotel has recently been revamped and presents a refreshing look. While you aren’t required to be a hotel resident to utilise the pool, there is an associated fee. Come equipped with your pool towel and relish a spritz during your stay.
It’s worthwhile contemplating a night’s stay at the Adelphi Hotel, nestled in a heritage structure on Flinders Lane in the CBD. The establishment boasts distinctive architecture, a prime position and top-tier hospitality.
One can experience an AFL match at the MCG
The roots of Australian Rules Football trace back to Victoria, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground is the premier location to experience this game.
There are many reasons to immerse oneself in a sporting event, irrespective of your team’s allegiance. Adorn yourself in cozy attire, savour some classic refreshments, voice your cheers, share your thoughts about the officials, and relish watching budding athletes during the intermission.
Attending an AFLW match is highly suggested, given the recent surge in the women’s league’s prominence. The AFLW fixtures span from August through November.
Savour artisanal whisky crafted at Starward Distillery
Located in Port Melbourne, this whisky creation centre churns out delectable and smooth flavours that resonate with whisky lovers.
The distillery is conveniently near the urban centre and boasts a vast warehouse setting. Its front bar welcomes all, serving as an ideal spot for mingling. They present a noteworthy whisky and tonic concoction. Their primary emphasis lies on whisky, particularly Starward, alongside other native spirits and boutique brews.
Guests can reserve guided excursions of the distillery, enabling a deeper dive into the whisky’s journey from grain to glass. Furthermore, attendees can taste the spirit at varied phases and inspect the cutting-edge apparatus and expansive barrel collection utilised for maturation.
You can spend the day (and possibly the night) at Melbourne Zoo
It is a large exhibition showcasing the animal kingdom outside Melbourne’s CBD.
Visiting Melbourne Zoo allows one to observe various animals, such as butterflies, birds and elephants. The zoo hosts special events like keeper talks and zoo high teas. Before leaving, make sure to greet the lion pride.
For a unique experience, consider booking a Roar ‘n’ Snore at the zoo, where you can camp in the historic elephant exhibition.
Explore every part of the Fitzroy Gardens
Situated amidst Melbourne’s vibrant urban setting, this expansive garden beckons visitors.
Those exploring the garden can relish its natural splendour and historical landmarks, including a miniature Tudor Village and the ancestral home of Captain Cook. Over its longstanding 150-year existence, the garden has accumulated an array of fountains, memorials, and ornate structures.
An essential feature to check out is the Conservatory, built in a Spanish Mission architectural style and inaugurated in March 1930. Throughout the year, it stages five distinct flower exhibitions, spotlighting an assortment of hydrangeas, fuchsias, begonias, cyclamens and calceolarias.
Take a leisurely walk through Abbotsford Convent
Abbotsford Convent traces its storied past to its origins as a convent in the late 19th century, later transitioning to roles as a commercial laundromat, orphanage and senior care home. It thrives as a pulsating community, uniting artisans, crafters, radio enthusiasts and educators, presenting an inviting realm for wanderers.
Venturing into the convent lets you immerse in its profound historical essence. Moreover, its serene surroundings are ideal for contemplation and leisure.
Suggested endeavours encompass admiring creations in neighbouring art showcases and engaging with creatures at the nearby Collingwood Children’s Farm.
Go to Phillip Island to see the famous penguins
Experience the wonder of nature on Phillip Island and witness the famous penguins in their natural habitat. Plan your trip today!
Situated roughly two hours from Melbourne, Phillip Island tour is celebrated for its diverse fauna. An estimated 3.5 million tourists gravitate towards this island each year.
A range of activities awaits visitors at this location, from a chocolate production facility to wildlife sanctuaries housing indigenous species and the evening spectacle of the penguin march. Moreover, the Motorcycle Grand Prix draws a significant crowd of racing fans during spring.
A particularly enchanting spectacle is the march of the fairy penguins as these petite birds conclude their aquatic hunting trips and tread the sandy stretch, heading to their rocky abodes.
You can try the best croissant in the world at Lune Croissanterie
Lune Croissanterie’s croissants were ranked first on Time Out Melbourne’s best patisseries list, and a writer for the New York Times called them “the world’s best.” This recognition has been an excellent achievement for Kate and Cameron Reid, the brother-sister team behind the venue.
Lune is a popular Melbourne eatery, like Chin Chin. It often has long lines due to its high accolades. The croissants at Lune are created in a climate-controlled lab and are almost mathematically perfect. They have a crisp and golden exterior with visible layers of delicate pastry. This may be expected considering Kate Reid’s previous career as a racing car engineer.
The plain croissants are the original, but the almond croissant is also highly recommended. Fortunately, Lune has also opened a location in Melbourne’s CBD.
Visit Victoria's two Californian redwood plantations
Californian redwoods can be found in coastal California and the southwestern corner of Oregon in the US. They were also planted in the Great Ocean National Park and the Warburton Valley in the 1930s.
These trees are known for their impressive height, reaching up to 115 meters, and unique horizontal branches. They are considered some of the oldest living organisms on Earth.
One should not miss the experience of walking through these plantations, which can make one feel relatively small. The plantation in Warburton, with its grid-like pattern, consists of over 1,400 trees, each reaching a height of up to 55 meters.
The Southern Lights are Australia's version of the Northern Lights
Images of this mesmerising light spectacle are genuinely captivating. Winter and the equinox in September present the optimal periods for witnessing it. For an unparalleled viewing experience, it’s advisable to pick a location with a clear horizon and minimal urban illumination. Some suggestions include Point Lonsdale, Cape Schanck, Flinders, Phillip Island’s southern region, Tidal River at Wilson’s Promontory, Aireys Inlet, or Anglesea.
Like its northern twin, predicting the Aurora Australis remains a challenge. A healthy dose of patience is essential. Remember to pack your camera; while the human eye might overlook the faint hue variations during an aurora event, DSLRs can document them. Stay alert and ready.
Steer a boat along the Yarra River using GoBoat
GoBoat is a boat rental service located in Docklands that provides a five-metre-long boat for adventures on the Yarra River.
There’s no boating license needed to helm one, ensuring a fun time for all participants.
GoBoat presents a distinctive outing where guests can carry their refreshments and relish them aboard, thanks to a handy picnic table in the middle of the vessel.
Peruse the collections at the State Library
This longstanding cultural icon houses an extensive array of books alongside several exhibitions and galleries that narrate its rich past. Founded in 1856, this public space stands majestically on Swanston Street, showcasing remarkable interior designs.
A trip to the State Library is a rewarding venture, catering to people of all ages and varied interests. Its breathtaking architecture and the two-tiered children’s section offer avenues for discovery, knowledge, and enjoyment.
For photography enthusiasts looking to capture an image evocative of Hogwarts, heading to the La Trobe Reading Room is a must. The dome of this six-storey space presents a captivating view, with the second or third level being the ideal spot to get that impeccable photo.
Take a tour of the Bellarine Peninsula and try local drinks
The Bellarine near Melbourne has become a popular destination for wine enthusiasts.
The Bellarine has been producing wines since the 1980s and is worth visiting to experience its offerings.
Some recommended stops include the cellar doors of Scotchmans Hill, Curlewis Winery, or Basils Farm. Additionally, there is the Whiskery for those who enjoy spirits or the Queenscliff Brewhouse for beer enthusiasts.
Visit the unique pink Lake that appears in Melbourne
Westgate Park, located on the city’s edge in Port Melbourne, turns pink every summer.
The reason to go is because it’s pink. The colour change is entirely natural. It has been turning pink yearly since 2012/13 summer due to hot temperatures, algae, lack of rainfall and excessive sunlight. These factors combined to create a pink hue similar to a witch’s brew.
One should notice the phenomenon of the pink colour that occurs in late summer. The colour can intensify as the water evaporates in the summer heat. Fortunately, the pink colour does not affect the birdlife on the Lake, as you will frequently observe them playing along the shoreline.
You can enjoy the views from Naked Satan's rooftop
Naked for Satan’s downstairs has a dark and moody atmosphere, but taking the elevator to its rooftop will offer breathtaking views of the CBD.
For those who enjoy rooftop bars, our city offers many options. However, consider visiting Fitzroy if you prefer a more peaceful atmosphere with stunning views. You can indulge in a delectable tapas menu that surpasses typical bar food while enjoying the sprawling view.
The selection of infused vodkas made on-site is extensive. You can choose from flavours such as blueberry, ginger, or peach for a safer option, or try the Hot Ho (chilli and cinnamon) or Naked Bitch (chilli and cherry) infusions for a bit of spice.
See the lion dance in Chinatown for Chinese New Year
Melbourne holds its Chinese New Year celebrations every January or February, featuring traditional live music, food, firecrackers, street performers, martial artists, and the traditional lion dance down Little Bourke Street, also known as Chinatown.
Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year are celebrated in Melbourne as a time for people to gather with loved ones and wish for good luck and a prosperous year. The city invites everyone to join in the festivities happening all around.
Be sure to combine it with a visit to Melbourne’s top yum cha eateries. You won’t be disappointed.
You can attend a performance at the Arts House
You can attend a performance at the Arts House
Arts House, one of Melbourne’s small theatres, offers an affordable alternative for those unable to attend a mainstage show.
Visiting a smaller theatre can be a cost-effective way to experience cutting-edge, locally-produced theatre. Arts House showcases contemporary performances from national and international artists, spanning various art forms, including theatre, dance, live, digital and visual art.
Arts House also hosts annual festivals such as the Festival of Live Art (FOLA) and Dance Massive and offers various artistic development programs to the creative community.
You can go kayaking on the Yarra River
Kayak Melbourne offers a unique experience of a kayak ride through the city centre.
One of the reasons to go is that it provides a unique and beautiful view of Melbourne’s skyline, especially during sunset.
The Moonlight Kayak Tour is a two-and-a-half-hour activity suitable for all ages and requires no prior experience.
See the impressive sights at Organ Pipes National Park
The site consists of 2.5 million-year-old basalt columns that closely resemble organ pipes. It is situated just 20 kilometres north of Melbourne.
The rock formations in this area are unique and exciting. They are known as trap rocks in the geological community. These rock walls in Jacksons Creek are Pleistocene volcanic rocks that fractured during cooling, resulting in vertical columns. People visit the park to see these fascinating rock formations and appreciate the traditional land of the Wurundjeri People.
Be sure to visit the Tessellated Pavement and observe the fossils.
You can go tobogganing at Lake Mountain
Lake Mountain is an alpine village just two hours away from Melbourne, making it an ideal destination for a day trip.
This alpine region offers a variety of activities throughout the year, including skiing and snowboarding in winter, hiking, biking, picnicking, and nature walks in the warmer months.
One activity to be noticed is trying out tobogganing at Lake Mountain, which offers dedicated slopes perfect for beginners.
Experience diverse marine life at the Melbourne Aquarium
The Melbourne Aquarium invites guests to dive into various aquatic environments, from vibrant tropical sanctuaries to chilly arctic zones.
At the aquarium, guests can witness aquatic beings, including formidable saltwater crocodiles, endearing penguins, ethereal jellyfish, and captivating sea dragons. Moreover, the establishment facilitates bookings for exclusive occasions like celebrations or matrimonial events.
It’s imperative to allocate time for the immersive shark passage. Reclining and watching the awe-inspiring ancient predators glide above is genuinely memorable without bustling student groups.
Consider visiting the Mornington Peninsula
Experience the beauty of the Mornington Peninsula, where stunning coastlines, delicious local food, and world-class wineries await. Start planning your visit today!
This picturesque coastal stretch in Victoria is handily positioned just a 90-minute commute south of the CBD.
The Mornington Peninsula tour teems with alluring spots, from beaches and vineyards to parks, gardens, and relaxation retreats, establishing it as an ideal escape destination.
Noteworthy spots in the region encompass the Peninsula Hot Springs, Jackalope Hotel, Arthurs Seat chairlift, Bushrangers Bay Trail at Cape Schanck, Enchanted Adventure Garden, Pt Leo Estate vineyard, Laura eatery, along with dolphin and seal viewings in the bay. An array of options and activities beckon every visitor.
Have a picnic at the Heide Museum of Modern Art
The Heide Museum of Modern Art is known for endorsing Australian modernism and the latest Australian art. This closely aligns with its founders, John and Sunday Reed, prominent benefactors and collectors advocating for the local modernist wave in the 1930s and 1940s.
Guests can immerse themselves in contemporary Australian artwork within the museum and then relax in the tranquil ambience of Heide’s riverside sculpture garden. The garden, famed for its corrugated metal bovines, was a gathering spot for eminent artists like Sidney Nolan, Albert Tucker, and Joy Hester in times past.
For those with a zest for activity, we recommend cycling to Heide. The journey alongside the Yarra River is genuinely delightful.
Try Michelin-starred cuisine for less than $15
Singaporean street food outlet Hawker Chan opened in Lonsdale Street in late 2024 and has gained popularity.
Hawker Chan is a unique combination of street food and Michelin stars. People often line up outside before it opens, excited for their serving of soya chicken, rice, and beans. The simplicity of the dishes can be deceiving, as they are pretty challenging to perfect.
The Michelin star rating is based on the preparation method used by Hawker Chan for its chicken. The chicken is marinated in a homemade soya marinade overnight, costing $11.30.
Join a guided walking tour to discover the history of drinking
For an unparalleled tour, accompany guide Ben Oliver on the Drinking History Tour. This expedition provides a twist, diverging from usual walking tours and bar hops.
Embarking on this adventure is rewarding, as you’ll witness iconic Melbourne spots like Federation Square, the Forum, the MCG, AC/DC Lane, the Old Treasury Building, and Chinatown. Along the route, you’ll drop by three distinctive bars. As you meander, you’ll be regaled with riveting narratives of Melbourne’s gritty history, encompassing tales of crime, bordellos, and age-old enigmas. For wine lovers, a wine-centric version of this tour is in the works.
Take advantage of the diverse tours Melbourne offers, as there’s a plethora to explore.
Hit the slopes at Mt Hotham
Mt Hotham is an Australian ski haven featuring 13 lifts and catering to skiers with over 80 distinct runs.
Many attractions draw visitors to Hotham, including its expansive 320-hectare ski domain, airport, 18 eateries and bars, and even a lavish day spa. Whatever your inclinations, everything you desire is available here.
A suggested activity is to indulge in a serene dip at the mountaintop onsen. The Onsen Retreat and Spa provides a Japanese-inspired onsen maintained at a cozy 38 degrees, complemented by facilities such as an indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, and treatment chambers. It’s the ideal relaxation after a day on the slopes.
Capture images of the mural art at Centre Place
This alleyway, reminiscent of Diagon Alley, showcases delectable cuisine, retail options and some of Melbourne’s most renowned mural art.
Tourists might be keen to wander through the city’s CBD laneways, given they frequently receive fresh coats of paint and highlight famed art locales like AC/DC Lane, Croft Alley, and Hosier Lane. It’s a good idea to revisit these spots several times within a year.
To achieve the best photography conditions, waking up at dawn is advised to minimise disruptions from strolling passersby.
Consider going for a bike ride along the Yarra Trail
The 20-kilometre trail through suburban Greenland is a great way to spend your weekend and enjoy nature.
There are many reasons to go on the Yarra Trail. It is a fun experience with numerous route options. One option is starting from Richmond under the Swan Street Bridge and ending at Dights Falls, where artificial weirs and rock rapids exist. To return, you can retrace your steps.
Make sure to allocate enough time for stops along the Yarra Trail, as it covers exciting attractions such as the massive rainbow sculpture by Ugo Rondinone, ‘Our Magic Hour‘, the Collingwood Children’s Farm, and the Abbotsford Convent.
