Melbourne Travelers Recommend

Cool, laid-back, and foodie, Australia’s second city is a mecca for travelers from around the world. From the dramatic seascapes of the Great Ocean Road to the boutique wineries of the Yarra Valley, Melbourne’s countryside has a lot to offer. And that’s before you get to the Mornington Peninsula’s artisan food, Phillip Island’s adorable penguins, and the koalas and kangaroos that still frequent the bush. Whether you’re cruising the Yarra River, sampling street food, strolling the city’s laneways with an expert guide, or looking out over the skyscrapers from the Eureka Skydeck 88, it pays to plan ahead. See below for the experiences you shouldn’t miss in Melbourne, and book in advance to beat the crowds and secure your place.

With dozens of vineyards and wineries set along the banks of the Yarra River and its status one of Victoria's premier wine regions, the Yarra Valley makes for an idyllic escape and popular day trip destination from Melbourne. Here's how to visit.

Highlights

• Sample the region's renowned chardonnay and pinot noir wines during an expert-led wine tasting.

• Tour big-name wineries such as Rochford, Yering Station, and Domaine Chandon, or visit one of the many cellar doors.

• Tuck into a gourmet lunch at a wine estate or winery, accompanied by carefully selected regional wines.

• It's not only wine on offer—indulge in handmade chocolates, regional cheeses, and local beers and ciders.

• Combine wine tasting with other Yarra Valley activities such as a visit to Healesville Sanctuary, a ride on the Puffing Billy Steam Train, or an unforgettable sunrise hot air balloon flight.

• For a personalized experience, opt for a small-group or private tour.

Things to Know

• The Yarra Valley is located about 30 miles (50 km) east of Melbourne, about one hour away by road.

• Full-day tours to the Yarra Valley typically last between 6 and 10 hours.

• Bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and light layers if visiting on a full-day tour—the region's microclimate means it can be hot during the day but quickly cool after sunset.

• Most tours include wine tasting and lunch.

During the fall months of March through May, the weather in Melbourne can be unpredictable. Warm, sunny days are interspersed with rain showers and cool nights, so it’s best to plan for all eventualities. Here are some suggestions for how to enjoy autumn in Australia’s second city.

• See the city from above regardless of the weather with a skip-the-line admission ticket to Eureka Skydeck 88 ; upgrade to get your adrenaline fix on Vertigo or the Edge.
• Beat the rain at some of Melbourne’s kid-friendly indoor attractions, which include SEA LIFE® Melbourne Aquarium Centre and the Legoland Discovery Centre —book admission tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line.
• Get spooked on a ghost tour that covers the notoriously haunted Old Melbourne Gaol.
• Experience Melbourne’s trendy food scene on a market tour that showcases the city’s diversity.
• Browse the high-fashion boutiques of the Lanes and Arcades on a shopping tour.
• Catch the sunset during a cruise on the Yarra River ; opt for either a dinner cruise or one with coffee.
• Admire the fall colors of Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Garden on a walking tour that focuses on Australian Aboriginal heritage.

Three days in Melbourne allows you to get a proper taste of the city and the surrounding area. You can explore laneways, feast on world food, watch penguins waddle home at sunset, and cruise the Yarra River. Beyond the city, you can ride the iconic Great Ocean Road and experience the Yarra Valley’s gourmet food and wine scene. Here’s how.

Day 1: City Sights and Penguin Parade

Start your day by orienting yourself within Melbourne, perhaps with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Visit sights such as the Royal Botanic Gardens, Federation Square, and Parliament House; stroll the banks of the Yarra River; see 18th-century Cooks’ Cottage in Fitzroy Gardens; then break for a lunch of local produce and an artisan shopping spree at historical Queen Victoria Market. Up the adrenaline by taking in the views from Eureka SkyDeck—or hovering high above the city in the glass cube called the Edge—diving with sharks at the Melbourne Aquarium, or soaking up the city’s skyline from a kayak on the Yarra River. At sunset, park yourself at Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade, watch the adorable little penguins come waddling out of the ocean and into their burrows, then return to the city to feast on a Greek or Vietnamese dinner.

Day 2: Ocean Views and Laneway Life

Spend today discovering the majestic Great Ocean Road, which winds its way beside the Southern Ocean for 249 dramatic miles (400 kilometers). Admire rock formations such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge; search for koalas in the eucalyptus trees at Kennett River; explore the timeless rain forest at Great Otway National Park; and learn about the ships that perished on the notorious Shipwreck Coast. Along the way, stop for a lunch of seafood and local wine in Apollo Bay. Once night falls and you’re back in the city, explore Melbourne’s signature urban attraction: the cobbled laneways that knit together the city center. Head to Duckboard Place or Hosier Lane for street art; wine and dine on Meyers Place or Tattersall Lane; or soak up the rock ‘n’ roll vibe on AC/DC Lane. Finish the night with a cocktail at one of the city’s signature “secret” laneway bars.

Day 3: Scenic Flights and Gourmet Tours

Get out into Melbourne’s world-renowned wine country: the rolling fields and hills of Yarra Valley, which focus on elegant cool-climate chardonnays and refined pinot noirs. Greet the sunrise gliding high above the vineyards and the river in a hot-air balloon, then savor a Champagne breakfast after you land. Next, discover the fine wines and foods of the region: tour wine estates, taste premium vintages, explore vineyards and cellars, and feast on fare from artisan cheeses to local oysters, chocolates, and even beer. Stop in the pretty town of Healesville for boutique shopping, handmade crafts, and native wildlife at the Healesville Sanctuary. If traveling with children, don’t miss the chance to ride the Puffing Billy steam train. Wrap up your stay in Melbourne with a classic city experience—a dinner cruise along the Yarra River.

Whether you’re enjoying that precious first break as a couple or some much-needed time away from the kids, Melbourne’s romance extends beyond the city’s legendary food and wine. Here are a few ways to get romantic.

Take a Scenic Flight

The landscapes around the city are the perfect setting for love. Glide above the Yarra Valley vineyards in a hot-air balloon, or soak up the rugged landscapes of the Great Ocean Road on a helicopter tour.

Taste Wine Together

Savor the Yarra Valley’s world-class wines on a private tour of Melbourne’s wine country. Travel by convertible or Mercedes, meet the winemakers, and share tastings from chocolate to cheese.

Cruise the Yarra River

Few things are more romantic than taking in the city lights on a Yarra River cruise. Sip bubbles and nibble on oysters and sushi or savor a 4-course feast.

Ride a Horse and Carriage

Melbourne’s historic architecture makes the perfect setting for a romantic ride. Explore the city’s historic center in a horse-drawn carriage on a journey made for two.

With two days in Melbourne, you can get to grips with the city’s vibrant foodie and cocktail scene, soar above the skyscrapers in a balloon, and watch adorable little penguins waddling home at dusk. You can even experience Australia’s most iconic road trip, riding through the spectacular landscapes of the Great Ocean Road. Here’s how.

Day 1: Balloons, Penguins, and Food

**Morning:**Start the day the scenic way by drifting over Melbourne’s towering skyscrapers on a sunrise balloon flight. Next, check off the star attractions from ground level, including the Royal Botanic Gardens and Federation Square, perhaps via a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Finish your city explorations with a leisurely cruise down the Yarra River.

**Afternoon:**Shun lunch and get a handle on Melbourne’s diverse culinary scene with the help of a food-themed tour that includes tastings. Wander Chinatown and Little Italy; visit gourmet stores, contemporary coffee shops, and farmers markets; and then treat yourself to a happy-hour cocktail in a rooftop bar.

**Night:**Wrap up the magical day with a surreal sunset experience: watching delightful little penguins waddle in from the ocean to their burrows on Phillip Island, a nightly ritual that locals call the Penguin Parade. Once back in the city, dine on Melbourne’s signature Greek or Vietnamese cuisine.

Day 2: Road Trips and Laneways

**Morning:**The rugged coastline of the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most beautiful seaside routes, winds beside the Southern Ocean for 249 miles (400 kilometers). Use day two to experience the road’s spectacular views and rock formations, such as the Twelve Apostles, on a day trip by car or helicopter from Melbourne.

**Afternoon:**Still on the Great Ocean Road, meet some of Australia’s unique wildlife. Look for koalas in the eucalyptus trees at Kennett River; walk with kangaroos and wallabies through ancient rain forest at Great Otway National Park; and hear tales of past shipwrecks as you explore the Shipwreck Coast.

**Night:**Back in Melbourne, discover the city’s signature experience: its vibrant laneways, home to a wealth of hidden bars, restaurants, and galleries. Soak up the street art on Hosier Lane or Duckboard Place; get down to rock ‘n’ roll on AC/DC Lane; or eat and drink on Meyers Place or Tattersall Lane.

A wildlife haven just down the coast from Melbourne, Phillip Island is an idyllic retreat for those looking to get away from the city for a day. To savor the scenery and peek at the penguins, here are your options for day trips from Melbourne.

Phillip Island Wildlife Tours from Melbourne

Phillip Island is renowned for its wildlife, and its animal inhabitants are sure to be the focal point of your visit. Opt for a full-day tour and visit attractions such as the Maru Koala and Wildlife Park, the Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park, the Churchill Island Heritage Farm, and Seal Rocks, home to Australia's largest fur seal colony.

Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tours from Melbourne

If you only have time for one Phillip Island attraction, make it the Penguin Parade—an opportunity to watch the island's population of little penguins as they come ashore around sunset. Choose an evening Penguin Parade tour with or without access to the viewing platform, where you'll be afforded the best views, or opt for a great-value super saver deal to combine the experience with a Melbourne city sightseeing tour.

Things to Know

• Phillip Island is located about 87 miles (140 km) south of Melbourne, off the southeastern shore of the Mornington Peninsula.

• The island can be in about two hours by road from Melbourne.

• Day tours from Melbourne generally run between 6 and 12 hours. 

• Be sure to bring your camera, comfortable walking shoes, and warm clothing if you’re staying for the evening Penguin Parade—it can get chilly along the seafront at night.

• Most tours provide hotel pickup and entrance fees.

Australia’s second city, Melbourne lays claim to the status of the nation’s foodie capital. With one day in town, you can get a handle on the city’s geography, check off the key sights, feast on delicious fare from the Pacific and beyond, and watch the world’s smallest penguins parading home to their burrows at sunset. Here’s how.

Morning: City Slicker

Especially in summer, a sunrise balloon flight is a wonderful way to soak up Melbourne’s startling mix of sleek skyscrapers, green riverbanks, and historic laneways. Treat yourself to a Champagne breakfast when you land. Next, explore the city at ground level, perhaps with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour. Stroll through the Victorian-era Royal Botanic Gardens, explore vibrant Queen Victoria Market, and savor architectural masterpieces such as Parliament House alongside contemporary urban landscapes such as Federation Square. Conclude the morning with a Yarra River cruise that brings you through parks and cityscapes into the city’s modern Docklands harbor area.

Afternoon: Food Frenzy

Melbourne is Australia’s gourmet epicenter, with a food scene that stretches far beyond the coffee shops, Vietnamese and Greek restaurants, and laneway bars for which it is best known. Young chefs come from as far afield as Asia and Europe to train here. Find out what makes the city’s food scene tick as you tour ethnic enclaves such as Chinatown or Little Italy, or visit gourmet stores and farmers markets that major in artisan produce from the Yarra Valley’s fertile fields. Wrap up your explorations with a contemporary happy-hour cocktail in one of the city’s striking rooftop bars.

Night: Penguin Parade

An 1.5-hour drive south of Melbourne proper, Phillip Island is a unique wildlife reserve that’s home to a magical evening ritual. A colony of little penguins (the world’s smallest penguin species) lives here, and at dusk each night they waddle out of the ocean and into their burrows in the sand. Join a tour from the city to watch the famous Penguin Parade, and get an insight into the other local wildlife here, including fur seals. Once you’re back in the city, dine on your choice of world food—perhaps Greek street food, Greek fusion, or modern Vietnamese.

With a mellower climate than most Australian cities, laid-back Melbourne is a fabulous destination to visit with kids. From hot-air balloons to ziplines, from penguins and koalas to a century-old steam train, Australia’s second city has plenty of options that the whole family will love. Here are some of the best.

• Get up close and personal with animals. See the penguins at Phillip Island; watch koalas and kangaroos; take a trip to Africa at Werribee Open Range Zoo ; or discover Australia’s unique fauna at Melbourne Zoo.
• Ride Puffing Billy, a century-old steam train, through the scenic Dandenong Ranges.
• Race through the treetops on a zipline.
• Glide above the Yarra Valley in a hot-air balloon.
• Catch a magic show.
• Hover high above the city at the Eureka Skydeck 88.

With sun-soaked beaches, open-air festivals, and Christmas illuminations, Melbourne is at its most atmospheric during summer, and there’s no better time to experience everything Australia’s cultural capital has to offer. Here are some of the best things to do in Melbourne this summer.

• Enjoy dazzling illuminations, candlelight carols, and spectacular fireworks during Melbourne’s Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations. 

• Escape the city for a day wine tasting in the Yarra Valley, wildlife watching on Phillip Island, or admiring the sights along the Great Ocean Road.

• Spend the day swimming and sunbathing at the beach, then relax with a cocktail at a rooftop bar.

• Watch a movie beneath the stars at the Moonlight Cinema in the Royal Botanical Gardens Melbourne, Rooftop Cinema in Melbourne’s Central Business District, or St. Kilda's outdoor cinema by the beach.

• Join the celebrations at the Australia Day Parade on Jan. 26. 

• Watch a tennis match with a bowl of strawberries and cream at the Australian Open in Melbourne Park.

• Attend a live music festival such as the Big Day Out or St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival.

• Shop for souvenirs and tuck into delicious street food at the Queen Victoria Night Market, held each Wednesday evening. 

The Great Ocean Road is a thrilling coastal drive, unveiling one postcard-worthy viewpoint after another. There are a number of ways to explore this 150-mile (243-km) route on a single- or multi-day trip—to help you choose, here are your options.

For the Time-Crunched Visitor

Day-trippers can see the best bits in one day on a Great Ocean Road day trip from Melbourne. Choose a private or group tour, and stop along the way to visit the famous Apollo Bay, explore the Shipwreck Coast, and admire the Twelve Apostles. Many tours include hotel pickup, entrance fees, and lunch.

For the Budget Traveler

If you have a tight budget, opt for a Super Saver or combo tour to pair your Great Ocean Road adventure with other best-selling activities such as a Melbourne city tour, a Yarra River cruise, or a visit to Phillip Island.

For the Bucket-Lister

If time is no issue, multi-day tours provide an opportunity to visit sites often overlooked by day-trippers. A two- or three-day tour from Melbourne offers ample time to check everything off your list—you can enjoy the seaside towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay, hike through the Great Otway National Park rain forest, and spot unique rock formations such as the Razorback and Dumpling Pots.

For the Active Adventurer

You don't have to drive the Great Ocean Road—those looking for a challenge can also hike along the coast. Tackle one of the Great Walks of Australia on a guided multi-day Twelve Apostles walk and hike along the coastal trails, stay overnight in a luxury eco-lodge, and cap it off with an unforgettable helicopter ride over the Twelve Apostles.

For the Nature Lover

For a back-to-nature adventure, opt for an eco-tour or choose an itinerary that goes off the beaten track. Prime wildlife-spotting locations include the Kennett River, the Grampians National Park, and Great Otway National Park, where you'll have the chance to see koalas, grey kangaroos, and swamp wallabies in the wild.

For the VIP Globetrotter

Those who want to travel in style can opt for the ultimate adventure—a private tour of the Great Ocean Road by helicopter from Melbourne. You'll enjoy VIP treatment and hotel pickup by limousine, but the real highlight will be the spectacular bird's-eye views as you soar along the coast.

Australia’s second city, Melbourne is best-known for coffee, food, and road trips. But with more than 150 years of museum history, there’s plenty for culture vultures—and families—to love. From sports to science, from trick art to prisons, here are some top museum picks.

National Sports Museum

Nestled inside the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia’s No. 1 sporting museum pays tribute to legends in cricket, sprinting, Australian-rules football, and more. Besides films, holograms, and memorabilia, there’s an interactive section where kids—and kidults—can test their sporting skills.

Old Melbourne Gaol

First built in 1841, this eerie structure with its cramped cells saw 133 prisoners go to their deaths before it closed in 1924. Learn about famous criminals such as Ned Kelly and the museum’s dark colonial past, or join a night tour to brave its many ghosts.

ArtVo Immersive Gallery Museum

The 3D trick-art phenomenon has taken Asia by storm. Join the fun at this pioneering gallery-museum and pose for epic selfies in your choice of 11 themed zones.

Scienceworks

Kids will love this interactive science and technology museum, suitable for preschoolers and up. Highlights include a planetarium, plenty of levers to tug and buttons to press, and the Lightning Room, with a Tesla coil.

Melbourne Museum

Dedicated to Victoria state’s natural and cultural history, the Melbourne Museum traces its story back to 1854. The modern building showcases everything from dinosaurs to Aboriginal culture, with an IMAX cinema, too.

Immigration Museum

Set in Melbourne’s Old Customs House, the Immigration Museum tells the stories of some of the millions who immigrated to Australia. An ever-changing array of exhibitions covers topics as diverse as Ramadan and tattoos.

Along with Australia’s other big cities, Melbourne is not known for its affordability. With some advance planning, though, it’s possible to check off the top attractions of Australia’s second city without breaking the bank. Here’s how.

Book a Hop-On-Hop-Off-Bus Tour

Melbourne’s attractions are scattered throughout the city and its suburbs, so transport between them can be costly and time-consuming. Save time and money with a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour, which covers popular attractions such as Melbourne Gaol, Luna Park, and Cathedral Place and lets you explore at your own pace. 

Take a Combo Tour

Combo tours combine two or more activities and experiences at a discounted rate, making them an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to cover more sights in less time. Top choices include tours that blend a Great Ocean Road trip with a Melbourne city tour, a Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary admission ticket, or a ride on the Puffing Billy steam train.  

Choose a Tour That Includes Tastings

Dining out in Melbourne can be expensive, so opt for a sightseeing tour that includes lunch or tastings to save money on meals. Nearly all tours of the Yarra Valley wine region include ample wine tastings, but for the best value, look for those that also include nibbles, lunch, and even chocolate. 

Buy an Attraction Pass

As well as letting you create a flexible schedule, attraction passes grant you discounted admission to some of Melbourne’s top attractions—which include the SEA LIFE® Aquarium, Eureka Skydeck 88, and the Old Melbourne Gaol. Plus, you can choose between several packages to suit your budget and the length of your stay. 

Explore Melbourne’s Green Spaces

With their diverse range of flora and fauna, Melbourne’s parks and gardens beg to be explored on foot; the best part is, they’re all completely free to enter. Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon exploring either the Royal Botanic Gardens or Albert Park.

Even in the depths of winter, the sun shines in Melbourne. The season’s cooler temperatures and smaller crowds make sightseeing a breeze. Whether you want to attend a winter festival, hit the slopes, or cozy up in an atmospheric cafe, here’s how to experience Melbourne this winter.

• Shop for souvenirs or tuck into seasonal delicacies at the Queen Victoria Winter Night Market from June to August.

• Put your skating skills to the test at the open-air ice rink in Federation Square or tackle the Melbourne Ice Slide at the Eureka Skydeck.

• Stroll along the crowd-free sands of St. Kilda Beach, then sip a hot chocolate at a beachfront cafe.

• Soak up the atmosphere at a winter festival such as the Melbourne International Film Festival, the Light in Winter Festival, Open House Melbourne, Melbourne International Jazz Festival, or the St. Kilda’s Winter Garden.

• Enjoy the weekly fireworks displays in the Melbourne Docklands.

• Watch an Australian Football League (AFL) game at one of the city’s top stadiums or snag tickets for the grand final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in September.

• Get your powder fix skiing or snowboarding at the Mount Buller ski resort or take a snow day at Lake Mountain Alpine Resort.

Admire some of the world’s most dramatic coastal scenery on a tour of the Great Ocean Road, located in the state of Victoria. Australia’s famous stretch of coastline includes the sea stacks known as the Twelve Apostles, situated in Port Campbell National Park. Here are a few things to consider when selecting the right tour for you.

For the First-Timer

Travelers making their first foray to this popular destination should opt for a full-day tour with multiple stops en route. Possibilities include the seaside towns of Apollo Bay and Port Campbell, Loch Ard Gorge on the Shipwreck Coast, and wildlife viewing in Great Otway National Park. While it makes for a long day from Melbourne, you’ll have more time to linger.

For the Independent Traveler

Those traveling with friends or family or simply wanting a less “touristy” experience can enjoy a more intimate excursion on a small-group tour. These include the added benefits of better window views and personalized commentary without the crowds, plus the comfort of transport by minivan or minibus along each bend in the road.

For the Photographer

Australia’s Great Ocean Road is equally stunning from the sky, and you can view the Twelve Apostles from an entirely different perspective on a helicopter tour. Alternatively, book your coastal sightseeing to be timed with sunset to make the most of the majestic scenery with postcard-worthy pics.

For Those with More Time

If you’ve got more than a day to spend in Melbourne, consider extending a full-day trip by combining your sightseeing with other nearby attractions. Guides often include highlights such as the penguin parade at Phillip Island and a visit to Seal Rocks or the Koala Conservation Centre.

For the Natural-History Buff

Aside from glorious photo ops, nature lovers can learn more on an ecotour while exploring the rugged cliffs or visiting koalas and kangaroos. Ask questions catered to your personal interests during a private tour, and benefit from individualized attention while you discover the ecological processes that erode the famous limestone pillars.

Australia’s cultural capital has always been proud of its creative heart, and the city’s legendary art scene is perhaps most vibrant on its streets. From spectacular murals to political statement pieces, and to stencil art by iconic artists like Banksy, here’s where to find Melbourne’s best street art. 

Hosier Lane

Take a walking tour of Melbourne’s historic arcades and laneways, and discover the street art hub of Hosier Lane, home to an eclectic array of street art styles, including stencil art, paste-ups, spray-painting, and graffiti.

Caledonian Lane

Tucked between Little Bourke Street and Lonsdale Street in Central Melbourne, Caledonian Lane is a favorite haunt of urban artists. Head there to admire some of the city’s most vibrant murals and to discover up-and-coming graffiti artists. 

Blender Studios

The Docklands is one of Melbourne’s coolest districts, and a Melbourne street art tour will take you behind the scenes at one of the region’s most renowned art centers—the famous Blender Studios. The converted warehouse is where both established and upcoming street artists run workshops, paint large-scale murals, and showcase groundbreaking pieces. 

St. Kilda

The beachside neighborhood of St. Kilda harbors some of Melbourne’s most interesting street art, from the colorful shop fronts of Acland Street, to the underground street art of Fitzroy Street, and the cutting edge art on sale at the Rose Street Market. Explore St. Kilda, Fitzroy, and Collingwood on a bike tour, or soak up the atmosphere on a walking tour led by a local guide.

From designer emporiums to quirky boutiques and bustling markets, shopping in Melbourne is as varied and eclectic as the city itself. Whether you want to hunt down a bargain, sample regional delicacies, or pick up some Australian souvenirs, here’s a rundown of the best places to shop in Melbourne. 

Queen Victoria Market

The historic Queen Victoria Market is legendary, and no Melbourne shopping trip would be complete without a visit to the sprawling collection of open-air shops, which sell everything from fresh produce to clothing to souvenirs. For a greater insight into local culture and the lowdown on where to find Melbourne’s tastiest street foods, opt for a guided walking tour. 

Melbourne CBD

Bourke Street is one of the city’s main shopping streets. It’s lined with international brands and home to some of Melbourne's biggest department stores, including Myers and David Jones. Nearby, Collins Street boasts high-end designer boutiques from the likes of Gucci and Prada, while the Block Arcade and Melbourne Central are two of the city’s best shopping centres, with a huge range of shops. To escape the beaten path, take a guided tour of Melbourne’s laneways and discover a trove of independent boutiques, art galleries, cozy cafes, and vintage clothing shops, hidden in the heart of the city.

Melbourne Docklands

The huge open-air complex of Harbour Town in Docklands is one of Melbourne’s biggest and most popular shopping destinations. Head here to browse the almost 200 shops, pick up a bargain at the many factory outlet stores, or even take a ride on the Melbourne Star, the area’s only Ferris wheel.

St. Kilda

St. Kilda shopping offers an alternative to central Melbourne, with plenty of quirky shops, vintage markets, speciality shops, and local designers. Chapel Street is the main hub, while creative types can head to the Greville Village Market to pick up distinctive clothing and accessories.

While the shoulder-season months of September through November still bring plenty of sunshine, visiting Melbourne in spring means that you’ll have far fewer crowds to contend with. Take advantage of warm days with outdoor activities, but prepare for rain showers by planning indoor activities, too. Here are our top tips for spring fun in Australia’s second city.

• See the springtime blooms during a walking tour of the Royal Botanic Garden.
• Spend a sunny day cruising along the Great Ocean Road, and enjoy one of Australia’s most popular—and most scenic—routes with fewer crowds.
• Feast on the bounty of spring during a wine-and-chocolate-tasting tour of the Yarra Valley.
• Prepare for any weather by booking a ride on the historic Puffing Billy steam train, which takes you through deciduous woods and bushlands.
• Take cover on a rainy afternoon at Melbourne Zoo and Melbourne Aquarium, and book skip-the-line admission tickets in advance to beat the lines.
• Take advantage of cooler springtime temperatures on a walking tour, which cover everything from history to street art.
• Watch the enchanting Penguin Parade during a half-day trip to Phillip Island. An earlier sunset means you’ll see the phenomenon and be back in Melbourne in time for dinner.
• Soar over Melbourne’s cityscape and coastline during a scenic helicopter tour.

The grand finale of the Spring Racing Carnival, the Melbourne Cup, is the year’s biggest horse race and a glittering event. Whether you’ve got tickets—to Victoria Derby Day, Emirates Melbourne Cup Day, Kennedy Oaks Day, or Emirates Stakes Day—or want an inside peek, here’s how to enjoy the Melbourne Cup.

• Ensure you arrive in style at the Melbourne Cup with a racing day cruise package and indulge with in a decadent morning or afternoon tea as you sail down the Yarra River. 

• Come face-to-face with champion racehorses on a tour of the Living Legends stables in Woodlands Historic Park.

• Discover Melbourne’s favorite sports, including Australian Football League (AFL), cricket, and horse racing at the National Sports Museum.

• Admire sports venues including the Flemington Racecourse and an AFL stadium on a cultural tour of Melbourne.

• Be sure to save some time for sightseeing—the Eureka Skydeck, Fitzroy Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, and St. Kilda beach are all must-sees.

• Make the most of your time in Melbourne with a day tour to the Yarra Valley wine region, Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island, or Great Ocean Road.

Melbourne has long been proud of its status as Australia’s cultural capital, and as a city that is constantly changing, the help of a local guide is invaluable. Whether you venture off the tourist trail, see a different side of the city, or get the scoop on where to eat, shop, and party—here are some ways to see Melbourne like a local.

Highlights

• Explore Melbourne’s laneways, arcades, and alleyways on a guided walking tour and discover quirky shops, historic landmarks, coffee houses, and street art masterpieces.

• Discover Melbourne’s renowned foodie scene and sample tasty regional delicacies on a walking tour of the city’s markets and street food stalls.

• Leave the sightseeing cruises to the tourists and instead hire your own boat or go kayaking along the Yarra River.

• Watch an AFL football game at Etihad Stadium or a cricket match at Melbourne Cricket Ground—or better yet, go behind-the-scenes on a guided tour.

• Learn about local legends, haunted houses, and spooky happenings in Melbourne on an evening ghost tour.

• Escape the winter sun for a day in the snow at Mt. Buller ski resort, a popular weekend escape for Melbournians.

• Take a scenic road trip with friends, and enjoy camping and surfing along the Great Ocean Road.

• Get glammed up for a day at Melbourne Cup Carnival, one of the most hotly anticipated events of spring.

With a coastal location that supplies prime fresh seafood, the influence of its international population, and a stable of established and up-and-coming culinary talent, Melbourne is one of Australia’s top food destinations. Here are a few things you don’t want to miss when visiting Australia’s second-largest city.

Chocolate

Melbourne’s European-like vibe means the city is home to plenty of shops and patisseries dedicated to the art of chocolate. Head to the city’s laneways and arcades to find some of the best.

Dumplings

Make your way to Chinatown to sample dumplings and compare your favorites from the neighborhood’s stalls and restaurants. Try them with hot chile sauce if you’re feeling brave.

Oysters

Being a coastal city, Melbourne is home to numerous places to enjoy fresh oysters and other seafood. Queen Victoria Market is a popular spot to get your oyster fix—along with nearly anything else your foodie heart desires.

Curry

With influences from many Asian countries, Melbourne is teeming with eateries that offer different styles of curry, from creamy to spicy to vegetarian. Sri Lankan, Indian, and Thai cuisine can be found at popular city-center restaurants such as Chin Chin and Delhi Rocks. 

Meat Pie

Not your grandma’s chicken pot pie, meat pies in Australia are sized for one person and come in several varieties, including steak, cheese, lamb, and seafood. These fast-food staples are available at most bakeries, but look for pies that are house-made instead of commercially produced to experience local flavor.

As the creative capital of Australia, it’s no surprise that Melbourne delivers when it comes to museums and galleries. Whether you prefer a cutting-edge and contemporary-art scene or masterpieces from the old masters, Melbourne has something to suit all art enthusiasts. Here are a few of our top picks. 

Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA)—Modern Art in a Dynamic Building

Housed in an award-winning building that’s characterized by sharp lines and rusty steel, the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art favors an ever-changing program of exhibitions over a permanent collection. Past shows have explored everything from poetry to political unrest. 

Ian Potter Centre: NGV—The Home of Australian Art

Located in bustling Federation Square, this offshoot of the National Gallery of Victoria focuses entirely on Indigenous and non-Indigenous art from Australia. The permanent display pays homage to the work of Melbourne's own Heidelberg School and displays many colonial paintings. 

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)—Worldwide Classic and Contemporary Art

As the largest and oldest art gallery in Australia, the National Gallery of Victoria is a must-visit for art lovers. Highlights of the 75,000-strong permanent collection—which spans Asian, Australian, and Indigenous art—include works by Monet, Bacon, Rembrandt, and Gainsborough.  

Hosier Land and Fitzroy—Street Art and Murals

If you’ve had your fill of the more formal environment of a museum, head to graffiti-saturated city districts such as Hosier Land and Fitzroy, which give you the chance to indulge your love of art in a more casual setting. Murals are bright and bold, with some expressing political statements. 

From the exoitc flora of the Royal Botanic Gardens to the fragrant lavender fields of Ashcombe, Melbourne is awash with green spaces and gardens that lend themselves well to wanders and picnics. See below for the best parks and gardens in Melbourne. 

Royal Botanic Gardens

Escape Melbourne’s busy city center without actually leaving town with a visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Established in 1846, the RBG is home to the Melbourne Observatory Building as well as extensive information on Australia’s native people. Take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk and learn how tribes use plants as food and medicine, and see a traditional smoking ceremony.

Albert Park

Though it’s best-known as the home of the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Albert Park is an inner-city sanctum home to sports venues, playgrounds, and a lake inhabited by swans. The park is a staple of sports-focused sightseeing tours and offers a clean and leafy place to picnic. 

Kings Domain Gardens

Located just outside the CBD, Kings Domain Gardens—which encompasses several distinct gardens—is reachable via the Royal Botanic Gardens. Points of interest include the Queen Victoria Garden, home to rosebeds and a statue of the monarch herself, and the Alexandra Gardens, which skirt the Yarra River. 

Fitzroy Gardens

With English Elms and deciduous Australian trees, Fitzroy Gardens is hailed as one of Melbourne’s finest gardens—an accolade that ensures that it’s a staple of sightseeing tours. Park highlights include Captain Cook’s cottage and a model Tudor village.  

Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Garden

Part of the Mornington Peninsula, Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Garden features the oldest traditional hedge maze in Australia. Explore sculpted gardens on the self-guided discovery trail; breathe the fragrance of lavender from the field; or enjoy coffee and cake in Ashcombe Café.

From fine dining to food trucks, burgers to barbecue, and freshly ground coffee to spicy red curry—Melbourne’s foodie scene is a global melting pot. In addition to world-class restaurants, explore regional delicacies and local artisan products. Here are the dishes and Melbourne food experiences not to miss.

Must-Try Dishes

Melbourne serves up an array of delicious food, with specialties from all corners of the world. Tuck into a classic Australian meat pie; take a trip to the Mediterranean via a plate of Greek souvlaki, lamb kebab, or soave; get your spice fix with a traditional Indian curry; or dig into Turkish and Lebanese inspired eats like hummus, haloumi, and spinach pies. Other popular choices include the many Chinese and Vietnamese restaurants in Chinatown, Spanish tapas bars, and North American-style taco shops.

Must-Do Experiences

• Hop aboard a traditional tramcar at the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant and dine on gourmet cuisine as you drive around South Melbourne.

• Experience Melbourne’s cafe culture and sample brews from around the world on a coffee walking tour of the city's atmospheric laneways.

• Indulge your sweet tooth with handmade chocolates and other treats on a tour of Melbourne’s chocolatiers, patisseries, and candy stores.

• Taste regional delicacies, artisan products, and seasonal fruits with a market tour of the historic Queen Victoria Market, accompanied by a local guide.

• Pair fine Australian wines with delicious tapas on a food and wine tasting tour.

• Discover Melbourne’s vibrant neighborhoods and tuck into Indian, Turkish, and African cuisine on a Taste of Melbourne food tour.