Melbourne is a city that delights and surprises at every turn. Whether you’re exploring its vibrant laneways, relaxing in its lush gardens, or immersing yourself in its rich cultural offerings, there’s something for everyone. However there are so many places to visit in Melbourne, we have put together this list so you do not miss out on visiting these places while in Melbourne.
Federation Square
If you are visiting Melbourne for the very first time, then Federation Square is certainly the first place from where you can start your journey. It is also the heart of Melbourne’s cultural scene.
From here you can, not only enjoy the 360 degree view of the city’s skyline, glorious MCG, St Paul’s Cathedral, architecture but you can also experience great food, the city’s bustling vibe and fine transit very closely. The Fed square is also one of the popular place to capture the breathtaking photo of the city, Eureka skydeck tower and Arts Centre Spire.
Located just on the bank of the Yarra river and across the iconic Flinders street train station, there’s always some events and musical activities happening here.
If you happen to be in Melbourne in Christmas time, then visit to Fed square is a must. There’s always a big Xmas tree with colorful lights and various fun activities happening around that time.
Distance: Approximately 2 km from the Southern Cross train station
Royal Botanic Gardens
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and want to enjoy peace and serenity then you can visit Royal Botanic Gardens. It is also the green heart of Melbourne. This garden is home to huge variety of botanical species and plants.
Within this beautiful garden, you can see abundance of botanical treasures, arid garden, lakes, troll along various lawns also enjoy the collections of native and exotic plants in the tropical glasshouse. If you happen to visit in summer then there may be Moonlight Cinema showing at the central lawn but you will need to buy the ticket. Royal Botanic Garden is open throughout the year.
You can also visit Shrine of Remembrance, Kings Domain and Sidney Myer Music Bowl which is very close to the garden.
Distance: Approximately 4 km from the Southern Cross train station
Skydeck at Eureka Tower
If you come to Melbourne then the visit to the city is not complete without visiting Eureka tower located at the Southbank. The 300m tower was named after the Eureka Stockade, a rebellion that took place during the Victoria gold rush. The gold crown and the gold-plated windows refer back to this era.
You can travel to the 88th floor of this tower and enjoy the 360 degree panoramic view from the top. It is also the highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere and has numerous view finders and a moving view point called “The Edge”. If you want to challenge your fear and have the thrill-seeking experience then you can step in the The Edge, which is a transparent glass cube that slides out from the side of Melbourne Skydeck, leaving you suspended nearly 300 metres above the ground and make you feel like the city is literally at your feet.
You will need to buy the ticket online or at the Melbourne Skydeck Admissions desk to enter the tower.
Eureka tower was once the tallest building in the southern hemisphere until it was overtaken by Australia 108 tower.
Distance: Approximately 2 km from the Southern Cross train station
Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium
Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium located on the banks of Yarra river and in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, is another must-visit place in Melbourne particularly for the family with the kids. It not only features the species from the Australian, southern and tropical oceans but it also allows visitors to see some of the colourful inhabitants of the deep. Kids can get up close view of jellyfish, starfish. seahorses, reef fish, rainforest creatures, corals, penguins and even mega crocodile.
It is certainly one of a kind experience specially if you have not been to these aquarium before. There is also an immersive digital installation, the interactive Wonder Wall which allows kids to colour their own jellyfish on an interactive screen. There is also an enormous Oceanarium where you an walk right under the glass cylinder enjoying the view of sharks, rays and vibrant fish where you get a feeling like you are walking under the ocean.
From time to time, there is a short movie shown in a small theatre where you can have 4D movie experience.
You will need to buy the ticket online or at the Melbourne Skydeck Admissions desk to enter the tower.
Distance: Approximately 1 km from the Southern Cross train station
St Kilda beach
St Kilda beach is among top 5 beaches and also one one the most popular beach in Melbourne. If you like swimming, and sunbathing on a sandy beach then this beach provides both the options, not only that you can also play beach volleyball on the sand, do sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, rollerblading and you can also enjoy waterskiing.
The historic St Kilda pier has always been a magnet for the visitors. You also stroll along the beach on the walking track enjoying the view of Port Phillip bay and the sunset or ride on the bicycle on the cycling track as well.
And if you are in St Kilda beach then you can not miss visiting Luna Park.
Distance: Approximately 8 km from the Southern Cross train station
