Things to do, Activities and Tours in Melbourne

Planning a trip to Melbourne and overwhelmed by all the exciting options? Known as Australia’s most vibrant city, Melbourne promises an extensive array of activities that cater to all interests.

Our handy guide is here to cut through your confusion, showcasing top-notch things to do in Melbourne, along with popular tours and unique experiences awaiting you in this bustling metropolis.

What are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the heart of this lively southern hemisphere city!

Key Takeaways

• Melbourne offers a wide range of activities and tours for all interests, including exploring iconic laneways and street art in places like Hosier Lane.
• Don’t miss out on experiencing Melbourne’s coffee culture, known as the coffee capital of the world with over 2,000 cafes to choose from.
• Popular activities and tours include city sightseeing tours, visiting Melbourne Zoo or Healesville Sanctuary, taking a trip along the Great Ocean Road, wine tasting in Yarra Valley, cruising along the Yarra River, visiting Eureka Skydeck for breathtaking views of the city skyline, exploring Phillip Island for its famous penguin parade and natural beauty, and discovering unique experiences such as hidden bars and live music performances.

Top Things to Do in Melbourne

Explore iconic laneways and street art, including the famous Street Art in Hosier Lane.

Explore iconic laneways and street art (including Street Art in Hosier Lane)

Get lost in Melbourne’s special lanes. They are full of color and life. Check out the street art in Hosier Lane! This lane is famous around the world for its amazing artwork. Artists from all over come to paint here.

You can see a cool mix of big names and local artists on these walls. With new art every day, each visit to Hosier Lane will be unique!

Enjoying the beauty of parks and gardens (including Royal Botanic Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens, Carlton Gardens)

Melbourne is full of lovely parks and gardens. The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is one place you can’t miss. Every corner holds a new surprise! You’ll find rare plants, pretty flowers, and calm lakes.

Also, go see the Fitzroy Gardens and Carlton Gardens. Both have wide green spaces where you can relax or play. So take time to sit on the grass or walk under tall trees in these parks.

Away from the city noise, enjoy peace in nature’s lap right here in Melbourne.

Experience the coffee culture (with the best coffee in the world)

Melbourne is the coffee capital of the world. The city has a deep love for this drink. You will find over 2,000 cafes here. Many say that Italian people moving to Melbourne brought their love for coffee with them.

Now, you can taste it in each cup served in the city’s cafes. With creative baristas from all across the globe, every cup feels special here. They focus on making sure each brew tastes perfect.

So don’t miss out! Make sure to try some of Melbourne’s famous coffee culture when you are visiting.

See an AFL game at the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground)

Going to the MCG is a must when you visit Melbourne. This big place holds lots of AFL games. AFL stands for Australian Football League. You can watch a game there. It’s very fun! The MCG is also home to the Australian Sports Museum.

This museum has many interesting things about sports in Australia. Besides, you can take a tour of the MCG too! On this trip, you will see cool spots that are not often seen by people.

Enjoy the vibrant food scene (including eating a Parma)

Melbourne’s food scene is full of life. You can find all sorts of foods from around the world. The city’s many cultures help make this happen. One big favourite here is the Parma, a classic dish served in pubs.

It’s so loved that people even go on trips to find the best one! If you want to try new foods or enjoy your favourites, Melbourne is the place to do it. So come and taste what we have for you!

Immersing in the vibrant art scene at galleries and museums (including see a blockbuster exhibition at the NGV)

Melbourne is a great city for art lovers. You can dive into the lively art scene at many places. The National Gallery of Victoria, known as NGV, is one such place. It has many free exhibits that you can see.

One cool thing to do at the NGV is to visit a blockbuster exhibition. These exhibitions have famous works byDo big artists. For example, they had shows like “Rembrandt: True to Life” and “Pierre Bonnard: Designed by India Mahdavi”.

Dr Miranda Wallace, a head person at the NGV, helps get these major exhibitions for people to enjoy in Melbourne.

So if you love art or want to learn about it, don’t miss out on this chance!

Crack the code in an escape room

Escape rooms in Melbourne offer a fun challenge. You work with others to find clues and solve puzzles. Each room has a different theme and puzzle set. One popular room is like Sherlock Holmes, where you use your smarts to escape.

If you love Harry Potter, the magician’s lair escape room is for you! Escape Room Melbourne (ERM) gets top ratings from players for its exciting themes and tricky puzzles. Try it out! Who knows? You might crack the code and make an epic escape!

Taking walking tours

Melbourne offers a variety of walking tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s history, landmarks, and natural features on foot. One popular option is Chocoholic Tours, where you can indulge in Melbourne’s chocolate scene while strolling through the city streets.

Another recommended tour is the Royal Botanic Gardens’ Aboriginal Heritage Walk, which gives insights into indigenous culture and history. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Hidden Secrets Tours specializes in unique walking tours that take you to hidden gems around Melbourne.

And if you prefer to explore at your own pace, Melbourne also offers self-guided walks and itineraries for an independent adventure. So put on your walking shoes and get ready to discover Melbourne’s charm step by step!

Popular Activities and Tours in Melbourne

City sightseeing tour, Melbourne Zoo or Healesville Sanctuary visit, Great Ocean Road trip, Yarra Valley wine tasting, Yarra River cruise, Eureka Skydeck experience, Phillip Island tour and Mornington Peninsula exploration are some of the popular activities and tours in Melbourne.

City sightseeing tour

The City Sightseeing Melbourne bus tour is a great way to explore the city and see its top attractions. You can hop on and off the distinctive red double-decker buses at various stops, allowing you to visit places like the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Zoo, or the Eureka Skydeck at your own pace.

There are two different routes available that cover popular landmarks and destinations in Melbourne. As you ride on the open-top bus, you’ll enjoy informative commentary about each place you pass by.

It’s an easy and convenient way to see all that Melbourne has to offer! Whether it’s your first time visiting or you want to rediscover the city, the City Sightseeing tour is an excellent choice for exploring Melbourne’s highlights.

Visit Melbourne Zoo or Healesville Sanctuary

Melbourne Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary are popular attractions in Melbourne that you shouldn’t miss. Both places showcase a wide variety of Australian wildlife, allowing you to get up close and personal with animals like kangaroos, koalas, and wombats.

At Melbourne Zoo, you can explore the different exhibits and learn about conservation efforts. Healesville Sanctuary, on the other hand, is located in the picturesque Yarra Valley and offers a unique opportunity to interact with native animals in their natural habitat.

Remember to pre-book your tickets for both places to ensure entry.

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is an iconic road trip destination near Melbourne. Stretching for around 240km, it offers breathtaking coastal views and stunning natural attractions. Starting in Torquay, a short drive from Melbourne, you can explore popular spots like Bells Beach and the Memorial Arch along the way.

The Twelve Apostles and the picturesque Otway Ranges are must-see attractions on this scenic route. Whether you enjoy surfing, hiking, or biking, there are plenty of activities to choose from in this beautiful region.

So hop in your car and embark on an unforgettable adventure along the Great Ocean Road!

Yarra Valley wine tasting

When visiting Melbourne, a must-do activity is going on a Yarra Valley wine-tasting tour. The Yarra Valley is famous for its rich history and fertile soil, making it the perfect region for producing premium wines and food.

During the tour, you can enjoy tastings of Chardonnay, Sparkling, and Pinot Noir wines. If you’re not into wine, there are also cider tastings available as well as visits to a gin distillery in the area.

Soak in the beautiful vineyard scenery while sipping on delicious wines – it’s an experience that shouldn’t be missed!

Yarra River cruise

The Yarra River cruise in Melbourne is a popular activity for tourists visiting the city. Departing from Docklands, this two-hour cruise offers breathtaking panoramas and stunning mountain peaks to admire along the way.

It’s a great way to see the beauty of Melbourne from a different perspective. The Yarra River cruise is suitable for big groups, birthday parties, hens or guys’ night outs, and special occasions.

You can choose from various types of tours including sightseeing cruises and cabaret tours. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also explore the lower reaches of the Yarra River by foot or bike, or even try canoeing or kayaking.

Eureka Skydeck

Eureka Skydeck is a must-visit attraction in Melbourne. Located at Level 88 of the Eureka Tower, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. As one of the tallest buildings in the southern hemisphere, Eureka Tower has become a landmark in Melbourne since its opening in 2006.

At Skydeck 88, you can enjoy stunning views of Melbourne and beyond. So don’t miss the chance to see the city from above at Eureka Skydeck!

Phillip Island

Phillip Island is just 90 minutes away from Melbourne and it’s a must-visit destination for tourists. This island offers a range of exciting activities and tours that you won’t want to miss.

One of the highlights is the famous penguin parade, where you can see adorable little penguins waddling back to their nests at sunset. It’s an incredible wildlife experience! Apart from that, Phillip Island is also known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Take in breathtaking views, go hiking along scenic trails, or relax on beautiful beaches. Phillip Island should be on your list when visiting Melbourne!

Mornington Peninsula

The Mornington Peninsula is a fantastic destination for tourists visiting Melbourne. Here, you can have exciting adventures like dolphin encounters and coastal hikes. If you love wine, you won’t be disappointed with the world-class wineries on the peninsula.

There are also markets, shopping areas, picnic spots, and BBQ areas to explore. And if relaxation is what you’re after, there are spa and well-being experiences available too. Don’t miss out on the various tours and trails offered here – they’re a great way to discover all that the Mornington Peninsula has to offer!

Unique Experiences in Melbourne

– Discover hidden bars and speakeasies that offer a taste of Melbourne’s vibrant nightlife.

– Explore street markets and pop-up events, where you can find unique handmade crafts and delicious food from local vendors.

– Immerse yourself in the city’s thriving music scene, with live performances ranging from indie rock to jazz.

– Visit cultural institutions such as the Melbourne Museum, National Gallery of Victoria, and Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) to indulge in art, history, film, and technology.

– Soar above the city with a hot air balloon ride that provides breathtaking views of Melbourne’s skyline.

– Wander through Fitzroy’s streets adorned with captivating street art that showcases the city’s creative spirit.

– Indulge in Melbourne’s brunch culture by trying out trendy cafes offering innovative dishes paired with exceptional coffee.

Discover hidden bars and speakeasies

Melbourne is famous for its hidden bars and speakeasies, which offer unique experiences for adults. These bars can be found tucked away in laneways and behind secret doors, adding to their allure.

If you’re looking to uncover these hidden gems, Melbourne walking tours are available to guide you through the city’s vibrant bar scene. Some popular hidden bars include Above Board and the Whisky Den, where you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish atmosphere.

So if you’re feeling adventurous and want to discover Melbourne’s best-kept secrets, don’t miss out on exploring these hidden bars and speakeasies during your visit!

Explore street markets and pop-up events

Melbourne is famous for its vibrant street markets and exciting pop-up events. These markets offer a wide range of products and goods, from fresh produce to unique artisan crafts. You can explore Queen Victoria Market, one of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere, or discover hidden gems at South Melbourne Market.

The pop-up events in Melbourne are always changing, offering a dynamic and lively experience. You can enjoy live music performances, admire art installations, try delicious food from local vendors, and even take part in interactive workshops.

Whether you’re looking for something specific or just want to soak up the atmosphere, Melbourne’s street markets and pop-up events are a must-visit for any tourist.

Experiencing the music scene

Melbourne is famous for its thriving music scene, making it a must-visit destination for music lovers. Whether you enjoy jazz, rock, or any other genre, there is something for everyone here.

You can catch live performances at various venues like jazz basements and rock’n’roll pubs throughout the city. The Melbourne Conservatorium of Music also offers world-class music courses taught by renowned teachers.

So don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant and diverse music culture that Melbourne has to offer!

Cultural institutions: Melbourne Museum, National Gallery of Victoria, Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI)

Melbourne is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, and there are three cultural institutions that you shouldn’t miss during your visit. The Melbourne Museum offers a fascinating look into the history and natural wonders of Australia.

From dinosaur fossils to Aboriginal artifacts, this museum has something for everyone. The National Gallery of Victoria is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, with its impressive collection of both international and local artworks.

You can admire masterpieces from renowned artists or discover emerging talents in their ever-changing exhibitions. Lastly, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) celebrates all things film and digital media.

Hot air balloon ride over the city

Experience the thrill of a hot air balloon ride over the city and get a unique perspective of Melbourne’s famous landmarks. During this one-hour flight, you’ll soar above the CBD and surrounding suburbs, taking in breathtaking views of iconic attractions like the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), and Eureka Tower.

Whether you choose to see the sunrise or admire the cityscape during the day, this scenic adventure offers an unforgettable experience. Plus, you can enjoy a sparkling breakfast onboard as you float through the sky.

Don’t miss out on this luxurious and awe-inspiring way to explore Melbourne from above!

Explore Fitzroy’s street art

Fitzroy is a trendy suburb in Melbourne that’s famous for its vibrant street art. If you’re visiting Melbourne, make sure to take the time to explore the colourful and ever-changing artworks that adorn the walls of Fitzroy.

Guided tours are available that will show you some of the best street art spots in Fitzroy and neighbouring Collingwood. The route of these tours frequently changes as new artworks are constantly popping up in the area.

So, whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for something unique to see, exploring Fitzroy’s street art is worth adding to your itinerary!

Melbourne’s Brunch Culture

One of the highlights of visiting Melbourne is immersing yourself in its vibrant brunch culture. Known for its amazing food scene, the city offers a wide variety of breakfast and brunch options that are sure to satisfy any palate.

From trendy cafes to hidden gems, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re craving classic eggs benedict or innovative avocado toast creations, you’ll find it all in Melbourne’s brunch spots.

Don’t miss out on experiencing this unique aspect of the city’s culinary scene during your visit!

Free and Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Melbourne

Explore Melbourne’s vibrant laneways, ride the iconic City Circle Tram, discover street art on Degraves Street, and soak up the atmosphere at Queen Victoria Market. Experience the city without breaking the bank! Read more to uncover all the free and budget-friendly activities in Melbourne.

Ride the City Circle Tram

The City Circle Tram in Melbourne is a fantastic way to explore the city for free! This tram service runs every 20-30 minutes and takes you on a ride around some of Melbourne’s top attractions.

It follows route number 35, covering landmarks such as Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, Parliament House, and the Queen Victoria Market. The best part is that it’s fully informed – providing commentary along the way about the city’s history and sights.

Whether you’re a tourist or a local looking for an affordable way to see Melbourne, hopping on board the City Circle Tram is a must-do activity!

Explore Federation Square (on a walking tour, if you like)

Federation Square in Melbourne is a vibrant and bustling hub that offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. You can take a walking tour around the square and explore its many attractions, including art galleries, cafes, specialty shops, and display areas.

If you’re interested in art, don’t miss the Ian Potter Centre which features contemporary Australian artwork. Federation Square is also home to the National Gallery of Victoria, where you can admire stunning collections of art from around the world.

When you visit Federation Square, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in Melbourne’s culture and experience its vibrant atmosphere.

Explore Melbourne’s laneway icon, Degraves Street

Degraves Street is a famous pedestrian walkway in Melbourne that offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink, have a meal, or simply enjoy browsing through the shops.

As one of Melbourne’s iconic laneways, Degraves Street is known for its unique character and charm. You’ll find an array of charming cafes, boutique stores, and trendy bars along this bustling street.

Exploring Degraves Street is a must-do activity in Melbourne as it offers a chance to experience the city’s hidden gems and immerse yourself in its thriving culture.

Queen Victoria Market

Queen Victoria Market, Australia’s largest market, is a must-visit for tourists in Melbourne. Since 1878, this vibrant and bustling market has been attracting visitors with its wide range of products and lively atmosphere.

Spanning two city blocks, Queen Victoria Market is home to over 600 small businesses, offering everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. You can wander through the stalls and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of this iconic market.

Whether you’re looking for delicious local food or unique crafts, Queen Victoria Market has something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to experience this historic landmark during your visit to Melbourne!

Watch the sunset at St Kilda Beach

St Kilda Beach is a must-visit spot in Melbourne if you want to witness a breathtaking sunset. This beautiful beach offers stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

At St Kilda Pier, you can admire the picturesque sunset while taking in the scenic backdrop of the city skyline. As a bonus, St Kilda Pier is also home to a colony of adorable little penguins, making your sunset-watching experience even more unique.

Whether you choose to take public transport or drive, St Kilda Beach is easily accessible for everyone. So don’t miss out on this opportunity to marvel at one of Melbourne’s most iconic sights!

State Library of Victoria

The State Library of Victoria is a must-visit attraction for tourists in Melbourne. It offers free tours, exhibitions, events, and family activities that everyone can enjoy. One of the highlights is the stunning La Trobe Reading Room, which is known for its magnificent architecture.

You can also take a free self-guided digital tour called Wander to explore the library’s rich history and discover interesting facts about its collection. Speaking of the collection, it holds a wealth of information and stories that will captivate your interest.

Whether you’re interested in books, art, or history, the State Library has something for everyone. So if you’re looking for free things to do in Melbourne, make sure to add a visit to the State Library of Victoria to your itinerary.

Explore the lively Chinatown

Chinatown in Melbourne is a vibrant and bustling area that you won’t want to miss. Located between Swanston and Spring Streets, it’s known for its delicious food, lively atmosphere, and fascinating sights.

As you walk through the streets of Chinatown, you’ll be greeted by the enticing aromas of Chinese cuisine from the many restaurants and food stalls. Don’t forget to try some dumplings or noodles! There are also buskers performing traditional music and dance, adding to the festive ambience.

Throughout the year, Chinatown is host to various festivals and events that celebrate Chinese culture, so there’s always something happening here. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not belt out your favourite songs at one of the karaoke bars? With over 70 options for things to do in Chinatown alone, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained.

Have a picnic in the Fitzroy Gardens

Fitzroy Gardens is one of the best places to have a picnic in Melbourne. It’s a beautiful and free option for tourists looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors. You can find various picnic areas within the gardens, whether you prefer a spot in the inner-city parks or by the secluded riverbanks.

There are also historic homesteads where you can lay down your picnic blanket and enjoy your meal surrounded by history. If you’re interested in learning more about the gardens, there’s even a free guided walking tour available every Saturday at 10 a.m. that starts from the visitor center.

So grab some food, find a cozy spot, and have a wonderful picnic experience at Fitzroy Gardens!

Free events and festivals in the city

Melbourne is a city that offers a wide range of free events and festivals, perfect for visitors on a budget. You can enjoy music concerts, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals without spending any money.

One popular event is the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, where you can catch hilarious performances from both local and international comedians. Another great option is exploring the city’s vibrant street markets and pop-up events, where you can find unique treasures and delicious food stalls.

Remember to check out ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image), which offers free exhibitions showcasing the best of film and digital culture. With so many options available, you’re sure to find an exciting event or festival in Melbourne that suits your taste!

Conclusion

Melbourne is a vibrant and exciting city with so much to offer. From exploring iconic laneways and experiencing the coffee culture, to immersing in the art scene and enjoying delicious food, there’s something for everyone.

With popular activities like city sightseeing tours, visiting the Melbourne Zoo or Healesville Sanctuary, and taking a trip along the Great Ocean Road, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Whether you’re on a budget or looking for unique experiences, Melbourne has it all. So grab your walking shoes and get ready to discover all that this amazing city has in store!

FAQs

1. What are some top things to see in Melbourne?

Melbourne boasts many attractions like the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition, Arts Centre Melbourne, and Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium.

2. Which places should I visit if I spend a day in Melbourne city centre?

Taking a trip from the Melbourne CBD you can explore popular tourist sites like Old Melbourne Gaol, see animals at the Melbourne Zoo or enjoy sightseeing tours.

3. Are there any good parks in this city for quiet time?

Yes! The City of Melbourne has many peaceful parks one can visit for relaxation including the well-known Royal Melbourne Park.

4. Can anyone suggest free activities offered within the city limits of Melbourne?

Yes! The Circle Tram is a free tram service within the Free Tram Zone which gives access to major attractions as it circles the City of Melbournce’s centre.

5. Is there anything fun that happens only at night in Melbourne?

One popular thing tourists love about visiting Melbourne at night is attending performances by the famed Melbourne Symphony Orchestra – An absolute delight!

6. Could someone recommend the best restaurants or food tours to have authentic local cuisine?

Melbourne offers unique food experiences with an array of top-rated restaurants available throughout its suburbs; guided food tours are also a great way to sample delicious offerings across venues.

7. What are some popular tourist attractions in Melbourne?

A: Some popular tourist attractions in Melbourne include the Queen Victoria Market, the National Gallery of Victoria, the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Melbourne Zoo, and the Melbourne Museum.

8. Can you recommend any day trips from Melbourne?

A: Yes, there are several day trips you can take from Melbourne. Some popular options include visiting the Yarra Valley for wine tasting, exploring the Great Ocean Road, or taking a trip to the Mornington Peninsula.

9. What can I see at the Melbourne Zoo?

A: At the Melbourne Zoo, you can see a wide variety of animals from around the world, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and orangutans. There are also interactive exhibits and daily animal presentations.

10. What is there to do at the Melbourne Museum?

A: The Melbourne Museum offers a range of exhibitions on subjects such as natural history, culture, and science. You can explore the museum’s collections, participate in interactive displays, and learn about the history and culture of Melbourne.

11. What are some must-visit places in Melbourne?

A: Some must-visit places in Melbourne include Flinders Street, known for its iconic train station and street art, the Eureka Tower for panoramic views of the city, and the Shrine of Remembrance, a memorial to the fallen soldiers of Australia.

12. Are there any guided tours available in Melbourne?

A: Yes, there are plenty of guided tours available in Melbourne. You can take boat tours along the Yarra River, explore the street art scene with a guided tour, or join a guided kayak tour to explore the city from a different perspective.

13. What are some other attractions in the Melbourne CBD?

A: In the Melbourne CBD, you can visit the Arts Centre Melbourne for performing arts, go shopping at Melbourne Central, or attend an event at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

14. What are some of the best things to do in Melbourne?

A: Some of the best things to do in Melbourne include visiting the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground, exploring the vibrant street art scene, and taking a trip to the picturesque Yarra Valley for wine tasting.

15. How can I get to Melbourne from the airport?

A: There are several options to get from Melbourne Airport to the city centre. You can take a taxi, use a ride-sharing service, hop on the SkyBus, or rent a car.

16. What are some of the parks in Melbourne that are worth visiting?

A: Some parks in Melbourne that are worth visiting include the Royal Botanic Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens, and the Queen Victoria Gardens. These parks offer beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and recreational activities.