Melbourne is the most popular city and capital of the Australian state of Victoria. Home to about 20% of Australia’s total population, this city is full of exciting adventures and sightseeing opportunities.
Some of the best things to do in Melbourne range from visiting world-famous landmarks, exploring the beautiful coastal landscapes, enjoying groundbreaking food and wine, and creating memories in the cities’ eclectic nightlife. Here are the best things to do in Melbourne.
Melbourne Attractions
There are many things to see in Melbourne. But with limited vacation time, you’ll most likely want to spend it visiting the best attractions. From historic landmarks to fun for the whole family, here are the best attractions you’ll want to consider visiting during your stay.
Places to Visit in Melbourne
Yarra River
Winding its way through Melbourne’s Central Business District, the Yarra River holds numerous activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to visit riverside landmarks like the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Federation Square, or experience local shops and fine dining, you’ll be sure to find it here.
Federation Square
For shopping, local food, and an amazing in-city experience, you’ll want to make sure you visit Federation Square. This area provides a collaborative experience between tourists and locals to give everyone enjoyable city encounters. There are a variety of tours to participate in and nearby historical landmarks to visit like Flinders Street Station and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Located in the heart of Melbourne, this historic landmark is one of the most compelling architectural sights to see. With about 100 years of history and the second tallest Anglican spire in the world, anyone who appreciates architecture and religious culture will love to experience this cathedral.
Melbourne Zoo
If you’re looking to experience all the wildlife that Australia has to offer and more, the Melbourne Zoo is the best place to visit. As Australia’s oldest zoo featuring more than 300 species, this attraction is one that anyone can enjoy. It is also a great way for a family to experience and learn about the surrounding wildlife together.
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
Explore the diverse underwater life of Australia at Melbourne’s exciting aquarium. Fit for all ages, there is something for everyone to enjoy and discover. Featuring the diverse Great Barrier Reef corals, penguins, sharks, stingrays, and thousands of tropical fish.
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
With almost 90 acres of tranquil lakes and lush landscapes, this royal garden features over 8,500 plant species. If you’re wondering what to do in Melbourne outside of the busy city, this flourishing oasis is the perfect getaway to explore.
Activities To Do in Melbourne
When you visit the area of Melbourne there are countless activities you can participate in. However, if you’re looking for the most fun things to do in Melbourne you’ll want to check out at least one of these top activities.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
An extremely popular activity in Melbourne that allows for a beautiful aerial view of the city is hot air balloon rides. Typically done during sunrise, the city’s views are extra appealing. It will help to create long-lasting memories and beautiful photography of the area.
Melbourne Star
For another option of aerial 360-degree views of Melbourne, take a 30-minute ride on the Melbourne Star. Similar to a Ferris wheel, this upgraded version includes fully enclosed air-conditioned cabins, beautiful LED light displays, and is available to ride day and night.
River Cruise
Travel down the Yarra River to view some of Melbourn’s greatest waterfront locations. This tour provides an experience of Melbourne from a relaxing water perspective and passes by some of the most appreciated landmarks. Popular places like the West Gate Bridge, Olympic Park, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Legoland Discovery Centre
If you’re traveling with your children, visiting the Legoland Discovery Center is a great way to keep them engaged and have fun. There are many interactive attractions to visit within this location that is fun for both kids and adults. This Lego-themed park features structures built with over 2 million lego bricks. Also, there is a place for your children to build their own as well.
Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a relaxing experience outside of Melbourne, take a scenic trip to the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs. Unwind in mineral-rich waters and explore the nearby wineries for the ultimate vacation within a vacation. There are full-day tours available from Melbourne or you can take the trip at your own pace.
Tours in Melbourne
One of the best things to do in Melbourne is to take a tour of the local areas and experience a greater perspective of Australia. It’ll be a way to discover Melbourne in a different way. There are a large variety of amazing tours to choose from. However, to make your experience more enjoyable we’ve included only the best.
Great Ocean Road
View 150 miles of stunning coastline views with a tour that starts in Melbourne and takes you down the Great Ocean Road. There are a variety of tour options to choose from including single and multi-day trips. Some tours even include access to other must-see sights like 12 Apostles and Apollo Bay as well.
Phillip Island
Gaze upon penguins in their natural habitat, koalas, and more Australian wildlife on a tour from Melbourne to Phillip Island. This is a great way to experience and connect with the amazing wildlife in the area. Most Phillip Island tours include tickets to the Moonlit Sanctuary, Phillip Island Penguin Parade, and access to Brighton Beach.
City Sightseeing Bus Tour
Discover city landmarks and must-see locations from an in-city perspective. These tours guide you through the heart of Melbourne to Federation Square and Luna Park. Enjoy a drive through the city without having to navigate locations yourself and hop on and off at any location along the way.
Grampians National Park
There is so much to discover at Grampians National Park, from aboriginal culture, wildflower valleys, and rugged mountains. While you can visit the park on your own, this tour guides you to the best locations in the area like Mackenzie falls and a lookout to view kangaroos in their natural environment. This full-day tour starts in Melbourne and takes you through the entire hiking experience.
Melbourne Bike Tour
If you’re looking for a physical and more personal way to explore the area, one of the best things to do in Melbourne is to take a bike tour. Travel with an expert local guide to the heart of Melbourne to view some of the most prized historical landmarks. This is a great way to view the area at a slower pace with physical interaction.
Melbourne Food & Wine
If you’ve been wondering what to do in Melbourne for food and drinks, look no further. Australia is full of fine dining, amazing cuisine, and delicious drinks. From local restaurants to dinner cruises, there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re looking for some of the best food and drink experiences in Melbourne, this next list will provide you with all you need to know.
Yarra Valley Wineries
Escape to the vineyards of Yarra Valley by experiencing the most popular wineries in the area. Enjoy lunch, wine tasting, and discover some of the best wines in Australia. If you’re looking to experience the culture and class that Australia has to offer, this is the best way to do it. Plus, there are many tours available if you are looking for a luxe chauffeured experience.
Queen Victoria Market
If you’d like to experience a local perspective of Melbourne, you’ll want to check out the Queen Victoria Market during your stay. This marketplace is home to some of the best foods, souvenirs, and shopping. If you’re also looking for some nightlife activities, on Wednesday evenings the market hosts live music, delicious foods, and artisan goods.
Hidden Bar Walking Tour
If you’re looking to explore the laneways of Melbourne while enjoying some drinks, consider taking a hidden bar walking tour. Discover some of the best local bars in the area and enjoy some nightlife out in the town. This is a great way to experience a variety of Australian wines, beers, and other drinks while getting a more personal view of the local scenery.
Dinner Cruise
Enjoy an Australian dining experience while you travel through the beautiful waters of the Yarra River. This is a fun and relaxing way to view the waterfront locations of Melbourne while experiencing delicious local foods and drinks at the same time. If you’re looking for a relaxing sunset dinner on the water, a dinner cruise has everything you need.
Local Food Tours
In the heart of Melbourne, there are so many amazing dining experiences to partake in, but to find the best ones, you’ll want to trust a local food expert to guide you through the experience. If you want to discover all the best local cuisine, this simple walking day tour is the best way to do it.
