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As we keep mentioning that Melbourne is the cultural capital of Australia and a vibrant city with a perfect blend of art, food and outdoor experiences. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a foodie, or a nature lover, this city has an endless list of activities to enjoy. Here’s a detailed guide to making the most of your time in Melbourne.
1. Take a Stroll Down the Yarra River and Sightseeing
The Yarra River winds its way through the heart of Melbourne, and walking along its banks is a scenic and relaxing activity. You can explore the riverfront on foot or rent a bike and follow the extensive bike paths.
You can also stroll along the Yarra river to see Melbourne from a different view. There are also plenty of cafes and bars along the river where you can stop along the fine dining places to try wide variety of cuisines and enjoy the view.
Another exciting thing you can do is to go on the Yarra river cruises to experience the true charm of the city and enjoy the scenic view that you don’t see everyday. If you take the cruise downstream to port of Melbourne, you will be sailing under the popular Evan Walker bridge and Sandridge bridge, while getting a close view of some of the famous places in Melbourne including, Crown casino, aquarium, cargo port, Bolte bridge and Westgate bridge. If you take the cruise up historic Herring Island, then you can get a close view of MCG, Royal Botanic Gardens, Olympic park, Rod Laver Arena and AAMI park.
2. Explore Melbourne’s Laneways and Street Art
Melbourne is famous for its laneways, which have become an iconic part of the city’s landscape. These narrow alleys are filled with hidden gems, from boutique cafes to independent shops and vibrant street art.
Hosier Lane
It is arguably the most famous laneway in Melbourne, Hosier Lane is a haven for street art lovers. The walls are a canvas for some of the best local and international graffiti artists, and the lane is constantly evolving with new artworks.
ACDC Lane
Another well-known lane, named after the iconic rock band AC/DC, is home to murals celebrating music and pop culture.
Degraves Street
Known for its cozy cafes and European-style ambiance, Degraves Street is perfect for grabbing a coffee or a bite to eat while soaking in the artistic atmosphere of the laneways.
3. Dive into the Arts and Culture Scene
Melbourne is rich in culture, and there are numerous museums and galleries to explore.
National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
As one of the oldest and most visited public art museums in Australia, the NGV is home to an extensive collection of international and Australian art. Don’t miss the NGV’s impressive collection of European paintings, Asian art, and contemporary exhibitions.
Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building
This museum is perfect for history buffs and families as you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and natural heritage. It’s home to the world’s largest dinosaur skeleton, as well as fascinating exhibits on Australian culture, indigenous history, and natural sciences.
Immigration Museum
Melbourne has a rich immigrant history, and the Immigration Museum offers a detailed look at how this diversity shaped the city. It’s both educational and visually stunning.
ALSO VIEW: Places to visit in Melbourne
4. Attend Sporting Events and Venues
Melbourne is the sporting capital of Australia, with a rich history of hosting major sporting events. Whether it’s the thrill of live sport or a visit to iconic sporting venues, Melbourne is a must-visit for any sports enthusiast.
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
The MCG is an iconic venue and one of the largest stadiums in the world. It is home to Australian Rules Football (AFL) and cricket, hosting major events like the AFL Grand Final, international cricket matches and Boxing Day Test match. Beside the games, the MCG also houses the National Sports Museum, where you can learn about Australia’s sporting history. A guided tour of the MCG is highly recommended for any sports fan.
Australian Open
Melbourne is the host city for the Australian Open, one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments. Held annually in January, the event attracts the world’s best tennis players and thousands of visitors. Even outside the tournament, Melbourne’s tennis culture is alive with numerous public courts and events throughout the year.
Melbourne Cup
If you are in Melbourne in November then you can attend the Melbourne Cup for an experience that will last a lifetime. It is a prestigious horse racing event and its very popular as “the race that stops a nation”. Although the day is about the horse racing action but the Melbourne Cup day is extremely popular for the iconic Fashions on the Field, also don’t be surprised if you spot any famous national or even international celebrity on that day. Beside that you can also enjoy live music performance and the premium hospitality and dining.
Melbourne Cup is celebrated on the first Tuesday of November but usually there are few more events/carnivals happening around that week.
Entry to the this event is by purchasing the ticket to and we recommend booking the ticket in advance.
5. Enjoy Rides at the Luna Park
One of the exciting things you can do in Melbourne is enjoy the fun rides and activities at the Luna Park for all the fun activities. This iconic amusement park is located just on the foreshore of St Kilda beach and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Melbourne. When you reach there you will be welcomed by a giant mouth and certainly worth taking the picture in front of it. One you are inside the park you can enjoy a lot of amazing rides and attractions like supernova, swings, coney drop, carousel, dodgems, ghost train and roller coaster that the whole family can enjoy. So if you have a family with kids then Luna Park is another place that you must visit in Melbourne.
Distance: Approximately 8 km from the Southern Cross train station
How to get there?
Beside driving you can take tram 96 to get to the Luna Park.
6. Take a Ride on a Tram
A visit to Melbourne can not be considered as complete if you do not take a ride on a tram. Some of the major metropolitan cities around the world do not offer a tram service so if you are in Melbourne, which offers the world largest tram network, then you have to hop on to tram and experience the city in a different way.
There is also a City Circle Tram which is another way to see major attractions around the city. This heritage tram provides informative commentary on the city’s landmarks making it a fun ride as well as getting to know about the city.
Within Melbourne CBD, there is a free tram zone, so if you ride within the free tram zone then you will not have have to pay for the service. But if you travel outside the free tram zone then you will have to touch on your myki card.
7. Watch Movies at the IMAX
Many people who visit the city may not know about the IMAX in Melbourne but it is the one of the biggest IMAX movie theatre in the world. It has the screen size of 32 metres wide by 23 metres high and seats 450 people.
Whether you’re a film buff or just looking for an extraordinary night out, IMAX Melbourne offers an experience that is both grand and intimate. Its cutting-edge technology, rich history and commitment to community make it a standout destination in Melbourne’s vibrant cultural scene.
So next time you’re in the city, be sure to catch a film at IMAX Melbourne – it’s another experience you won’t soon forget. The curved shape of the screen, width of the theatre, earth-shattering sound and the configuration of an IMAX theatre will make you feel like you’re part of the onscreen action and provide you with no other cinematic experience like it.
It is nestled within Melbourne Museum next to Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton garden.
We recommend that you book the tickets in advance specially in school holidays so you don’t have to be disappointed to get in.
8. Experience 3D Arts at ArtVo
One of the fun things you can do while in Melbourne is visit ArtVo to experience art through touching and interacting with the artworks, being part of the art by taking photographs in front of the 3D installations and escaping into a world of immersive ‘trick-art’ gallery.
ArtVo is a place where you can take a lot of photographs of the murals exploring the space, forest, ocean, polar ice caps, come face to face with wild animals and even scale rocky crevasses.
If you have a family with kids, you should then certainly visit ArtVo so you can step into a world of optical illusions, experience this 3D art museum in a whole new way and have fun at the same time.
ArtVo is located at the Docklands.
We recommend that you book the tickets in advance specially in school holidays so you don’t have to be disappointed to get in.
9. Hot Air Baloon
Out of all different fun ways to experience Melbourne, hot air balloon is completely unique and exciting way to view Melbourne. It is bit costly compared to other activities in Melbourne but it’s certainly a worthy affair and once in a life time adventure. You can soar above one of the most beautiful cities in the world, enjoy the breathtaking views and experience the magic of hot air ballooning.
On clear days, from the air you can catch a glimpse of Port Phillip Bay glistening in the distance, the sprawling Royal Botanic Gardens, the Yarra River winding its way through the city, the impressive Olympic park, MCG and Eureka tower. Don’t forget to bring a camera so you can capture the spectacular views and the memories.
10. Shop Till you Drop
Melbourne is a shopping paradise, with everything from high-end fashion boutiques to quirky vintage stores, the city offers a diverse range of shopping experiences. Whether you’re looking for luxury, bargains, or something in between, Melbourne has it all. Here are some of Melbourne’s most popular shopping centres where you can shop which cater to every taste and budget:
Bourke Street Mall
While not a traditional shopping centre, Bourke Street Mall is a pedestrian-friendly strip in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. Flanked by iconic department stores like Myer and David Jones, it’s a bustling hub of activity and a must-visit for any shopping enthusiast.
Emporium Melbourne
Located in the heart of the city, Emporium Melbourne is a hub for luxury shopping and high-end fashion. With a mix of international brands and local designers, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking the latest trends. The centre also features a gourmet food court, making it a great spot to recharge after a shopping spree.
Melbourne Central
This iconic shopping centre combines retail therapy with architectural beauty. Home to over 300 stores, Melbourne Central offers everything from fashion and beauty to electronics and homewares. Don’t miss the historic Shot Tower, which is encased in a stunning glass dome—a unique feature of this shopping destination.
DFO South Wharf
For bargain hunters, DFO South Wharf is the ultimate destination. This outlet shopping centre features discounted prices on popular brands, like Nike, Adidas, Fila, Asics and more making it a favorite among savvy shoppers. Located along the Yarra River, it’s also a great spot to enjoy waterfront views while you shop.
Chadstone Shopping Centre
Known as the “Fashion Capital,” Chadstone is the largest shopping centre in the Southern Hemisphere. Located just a short drive from the city, it boasts an impressive array of luxury brands, department stores, and specialty shops. With a cinema, dining precinct, and even a Legoland Discovery Centre, Chadstone is more than just a shopping destination—it’s an experience.
The Royal Arcade
Step back in time at the Royal Arcade, Melbourne’s oldest shopping arcade. This heritage-listed gem is home to boutique stores offering unique fashion, jewelry, and gifts. The arcade’s charming architecture and iconic Gog and Magog clock make it a must-visit for both shopping and sightseeing.
Don’t forget to explore the independent stores in Melbourne’s laneways for unique finds.
11. Enjoy the Culinary Delights and Coffee Culture
Melbourne is renowned for its diverse food scene, with influences from around the world. The city is particularly famous for its café culture, and coffee enthusiasts will find a wealth of high-quality cafes to explore.
Queen Victoria Market
As one of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere, Queen Victoria Market is a must-visit for food lovers. The market is a bustling hub that offers fresh produce, food stalls, gourmet foods, and specialty items. You can sample street food from international cuisines or purchase ingredients for cooking at home. The Night Markets, held during summer months, feature food stalls, live music, and entertainment.
Chapel Street
Chapel Street is Melbourne’s trendy shopping and dining precinct, lined with boutique stores, stylish cafes, and modern restaurants. It’s a great destination for those seeking a combination of fashion and food. The street offers everything from high-end fashion boutiques to vintage shops, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Melbourne’s Coffee Scene
Melbourne is widely regarded as one of the coffee capitals of the world. The city’s coffee culture is deeply embedded in its daily life, with countless cafes serving expertly crafted espresso-based drinks. Areas such as Fitzroy, Collingwood, and Carlton are known for their high-quality cafes. Melbourne’s laneways are home to countless cozy cafés that serve world-class coffee and brunch.
Chinatown
If you like chinese food then you can head over to Chinatown to indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine or discover hidden dumpling restaurants.
ALSO VIEW: Fast food restaurants in Melbourne
12. Get in Touch with Nature and Enjoy Outdoor Activities
Despite being a bustling metropolis, Melbourne offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, from tranquil gardens to scenic coastal drives.
Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens are a must-visit for nature lovers and they provide a peaceful environment in the heart of the city. You can explore various themed gardens, such as the Australian Garden, featuring native plant species, or the Rainforest Walk, offering a lush, tropical experience. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or outdoor yoga session.
St Kilda Beach
Located a short distance from the city center, St Kilda Beach offers a popular spot for beachgoers. The area is ideal for swimming, walking along the St Kilda Pier, and enjoying views of the bay and the city skyline. St Kilda is also home to Luna Park, an amusement park with vintage rides.
Great Ocean Road
If you are looking to venture outside the city, the Great Ocean Road offers one of the most scenic drives in the world. This coastal route provides dramatic views of cliffs, beaches, and rainforests, along with famous landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Otway Ranges. The drive is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
13. Take the Day Trips and Excursions
In addition to the Great Ocean Road, Melbourne is ideally located for a variety of day trips and excursions.
Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine regions, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne. You can explore a large number wineries, enjoy wine tasting and sample gourmet food. The region is also home to beautiful landscapes, making it ideal for scenic drives or hiking.
Phillip Island
A short drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island offers stunning coastal views and wildlife experiences. The island is best known for the Penguin Parade, where you can watch hundreds of little penguins return to their burrows at sunset. Phillip Island is also home to beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and a koala sanctuary.
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