Melbourne is a city of endless charm, blending modern sophistication with rich cultural history. Known for its vibrant laneways, world-class coffee, and stunning natural attractions, this guide focuses on the most iconic and unique experiences that should top your list when exploring things to do in Melbourne
Introduction to Melbourne: A Vibrant Fusion of Culture, Nature, and Adventure
Melbourne, the capital city of the state of Victoria in Australia, is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern innovation. Known as the cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne offers a dynamic mix of art, food, sports, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you’re drawn to its artistic laneways, diverse dining scene, or stunning parks and gardens, Melbourne promises an unforgettable experience.
Why Visit Melbourne?
- Cultural Hub: Melbourne is often referred to as the cultural capital of Australia, with an abundance of museums, galleries, theaters, and festivals. The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) are just a couple of places where you can immerse yourself in Australian and international art and media.
- Gastronomic Paradise: From world-class restaurants to trendy cafés and street food, Melbourne’s food scene is as diverse as its people. Whether you're indulging in Italian cuisine in Lygon Street, savoring modern Australian flavors in the city’s best dining spots, or exploring Melbourne's famous laneway eateries, food lovers will find a culinary haven.
- Sporting Capital: Melbourne is also the sporting capital of Australia. Home to the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), it is the city to visit for major sporting events, including the Australian Open (Tennis), AFL (Australian Football League), and Formula 1 Grand Prix.
- Breathtaking Nature: While Melbourne is a bustling metropolis, it’s also a city surrounded by natural beauty. The Royal Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful retreat, and a short drive away, the Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island provide stunning coastal landscapes and wildlife experiences.
Discover Federation Square and Surrounds
Federation Square is Melbourne’s beating heart, where locals and visitors alike gather to experience art, culture, and events.
Melbourne, Australia + Lygon Street + Royal Exhibition Building + Federation Square + Melbourne War Memorial Half Day Tour
Up to AU$ 4
Duration:3hrs
Available from Jan 7
|
ID + E-Voucher
from AU$ 90.45
Book Now >
1. Dive into Melbourne's vibrant inner city, exploring iconic landmarks and uncovering its fascinating history and unique neighborhoods.
2. Join a half-day journey across Melbourne's urban highlights, guided by an expert who reveals the city's distinctive charm.
Highlights
| Attraction | Details |
| Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) | An interactive museum celebrating film, TV, and digital media. Ideal for movie buffs and creatives. |
| National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) Ian Potter Centre | Dedicated to Australian art, from Indigenous works to contemporary masterpieces. |
| St. Paul’s Cathedral | A stunning Gothic Revival church, perfect for photography and peaceful contemplation. |
Where to Eat Nearby
- Cumulus Inc.: A modern bistro offering European-inspired dishes.
- Chin Chin: Melbourne’s iconic spot for Southeast Asian fusion.
Where to Stay:
- The Westin Melbourne: Luxury accommodation steps away from Federation Square.
- Adina Apartment Hotel: Ideal for families or extended stays with self-contained apartments.
Wander the Royal Botanic Gardens
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Free entry
No.17 of Best Things to Do in Sydney
4.7/5
|
Recommended sightseeing time:1-3 hours
Free
Book Now >
Highlights
| Activity | Details |
| Punt Rides on Ornamental Lake | Relax on a traditional punt boat, gliding through serene waters surrounded by lush greenery. |
| The Ian Potter Children’s Garden | A fun, interactive space for kids to explore. |
| Aboriginal Heritage Walk | Learn about Indigenous culture and the significance of plants to their traditions. |
Pro Tip: Visit early morning for a tranquil experience and great photo opportunities.
Where to Eat Nearby
- The Terrace Café: Light meals with picturesque garden views.
- Jardin Tan: A French-Vietnamese fusion café located within the gardens.
Where to Stay
- The Langham Melbourne: Overlooking the Yarra River, this luxurious hotel is a short drive away.
- Quest Southbank: Perfect for families or groups with self-contained apartments.
Wander Melbourne’s Laneways
Melbourne Laneways Discovery Running Tour
Up to AU$ 4
Duration:2hrs
Departs from Melbourne
|
E-Voucher
AU$ 84.59
Book Now >
Must-Visit Laneways
| Laneway | What Makes It Special |
| Hosier Lane | Famous for its ever-changing street art and vibrant graffiti walls. |
| Degraves Street | A bustling laneway with cozy coffee spots and boutique shopping. |
Where to Eat Nearby
- Brother Baba Budan: Renowned for Melbourne’s best coffee and quirky hanging chair décor.
- Betty’s Burgers: A casual, delicious spot for American-style burgers.
Where to Stay
- QT Melbourne: A trendy hotel with a rooftop bar and stylish interiors.
- Citadines on Bourke Melbourne: Great for travelers seeking modern serviced apartments.
Visit the Melbourne Zoo
Melbourne Zoo combines family-friendly fun with conservation efforts, housing animals from across the globe.
Melbourne Zoo + Carlton Gardens + Melbourne Old Gaol + Yarra River + Flinders Street Station one-day tour
Up to AU$ 4
Tour with Private Driver
Duration:8hrs
|
E-Voucher
AU$ 729.82
Book Now >
Highlights
| Exhibit | Details |
| Trail of the Elephants | A lush Asian village with playful elephants. |
| Gorilla Rainforest | A captivating habitat for Western Lowland Gorillas. |
| Australian Bush | Meet kangaroos, koalas, and other native Australian wildlife. |
Where to Eat Nearby
- The Zoo Café: Casual dining inside the zoo for quick meals.
- Pope Joan: A nearby café offering hearty, locally sourced dishes.
Where to Stay
- Park Hyatt Melbourne: Luxury accommodation close to the zoo and city attractions.
- Oakwood Premier Melbourne: A boutique option blending charm with modern comfort.
Drive the Great Ocean Road
A must-do day trip or overnight excursion, this iconic coastal route offers jaw-dropping views and unforgettable stops.
Great Ocean Road Day Tour
Up to AU$ 4
Departs from Melbourne
Duration:8hrs
|
E-Voucher
AU$ 63.33
Book Now >
Highlights Along the Route
| Stop | Why It’s Special |
| Twelve Apostles | Towering limestone pillars emerging from the ocean. |
| Loch Ard Gorge | A stunning cove steeped in shipwreck history. |
| Apollo Bay | A picturesque seaside town with delicious seafood options. |
Where to Eat Nearby
- Dooleys Ice Cream (Apollo Bay): A must-stop for locally made ice cream.
- Chris’s Beacon Point Restaurant: Fine dining with breathtaking coastal views.
Where to Stay
- RACV Torquay Resort: Luxury accommodation perfect for starting your Great Ocean Road adventure.
- Apollo Bay Eco YHA: A sustainable and budget-friendly stay for travelers.
Weather and Best Time to Visit Melbourne
Melbourne is known for its unpredictable weather, with the city often experiencing “four seasons in one day.” Here’s a quick guide to what to expect in each season:
- Summer (Dec - Feb): Warm temperatures (14°C to 26°C). Great for outdoor activities like exploring gardens and beaches.
- Autumn (Mar - May): Mild weather (11°C to 20°C). Perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the fall colors.
- Winter (Jun - Aug): Cool temperatures (6°C to 14°C). Ideal for indoor activities like museum visits.
- Spring (Sept - Nov): Mild with occasional rain (9°C to 18°C). Great for outdoor explorations.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer is best for outdoor activities.
- Autumn and Spring offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
- Winter is great for cozy indoor experiences.
Packing Tips for Melbourne's Weather
| Season | Clothing | Tips |
| Summer | Light clothes, hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, light jacket for evenings | Pack sunscreen and a light jacket for cooler evenings. |
| Autumn | Layered clothing, light sweater, rain jacket/umbrella, comfortable shoes | Be ready for occasional rain and temperature changes. |
| Winter | Warm clothes (jackets, scarves, gloves), waterproof shoes, layers | It can be chilly, especially with wind, so pack a warm jacket. |
| Spring | Layered clothing, light sweater, jacket, umbrella, comfortable shoes | Prepare for fluctuating weather and occasional rain. |
Getting Around Melbourne
- Public Transport: Use the Myki card for trams, trains, and buses.
- Walking: Many attractions like Federation Square, laneways, and gardens are within walking distance.
- Biking: Melbourne is bike-friendly with dedicated lanes. Use Melbourne Bike Share for rentals.
Hotel Recommendations in Melbourne
Melbourne is known for its diversity, and this is reflected in the wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to unique boutique stays. Whether you’re visiting for a cultural exploration, a family vacation, or a weekend getaway, here are some top hotel recommendations located near the best things to do in Melbourne.
Melbourne
5 star
Very Good257 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.59km from downtown
The location is fantastic. Most major city attractions are within walking distance, and the free tram stop is just around the corner. Australia's two main supermarkets, Coles and Woolworths, are also only a short walk away, and it's right next to the library.
The room I booked came with amenities like a microwave and a kettle, which made it very convenient for heating up groceries. The room was perfectly adequate for two people. For those booking a small group tour to the Great Ocean Road via Ctrip, hotel pick-up is available.
Overall, despite the room showing its age, it was perfectly sufficient and served its purpose well – definitely good value for money. Breakfast was quite good. For check-in, a basic command of English is necessary.FromPHP 8,270
Great473 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.59km from downtown
My brief one-night stay at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne left a positive impression. The hotel exudes a classic, luxurious feel, evident from the grand lobby to the well-appointed rooms. The location is undeniably excellent, placing you right in the heart of Melbourne's CBD with easy access to shopping and dining. While a short stay limited my ability to fully explore all amenities, the service was professional and efficient. The room was comfortable and considered quiet, ensuring a restful night. Overall, the Grand Hyatt Melbourne offers a reliable and upscale experience for those seeking a central and comfortable stay.FromPHP 12,260
Very Good229 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.62km from downtown
My Sister and I shared a room for an overnight stay, we found the service excellent and the bed very comfortable. The room had everything we needed to feel at home.FromPHP 9,822
Very Good283 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.51km from downtown
Exceptional Stay at W Hotel Melbourne
I recently stayed at the W Hotel in Melbourne, and it exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I arrived, the experience was seamless, stylish, and luxurious.
The design of the hotel is modern and chic, with vibrant decor that perfectly captures Melbourne’s cosmopolitan vibe. My room was impeccably clean, thoughtfully designed, and offered stunning views of the city. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the attention to detail in amenities—from the plush robes to the high-end toiletries—made it feel like a true escape.
The staff were exceptional—attentive, warm, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure my stay was perfect. Dining at the hotel was also a highlight; the food was creative, fresh, and bursting with flavor.
The hotel’s location is ideal, placing you in the heart of Melbourne with easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions. Whether you’re there for business or leisure, the W Hotel offers the perfect blend of comfort and style.
I highly recommend the W Hotel in Melbourne for anyone looking for a luxurious and unforgettable experience. I can’t wait to return!
Feel free to tweak it with any specific highlights or personal touches!FromPHP 13,803
Great473 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.96km from downtown
Going to be honest one of the worse hotels I have encountered. Whole place from hallway to the room feels like a prison. Bad design there is no door to the toilet, it is open to the whole room, all it take is one person to flush and the whole bed filled with invisible germs. Also when u turn Ling’s on it will disturb everyone.
The shower and toilet made of bricks and feels like a public toilet. Really bad design with some silly transparent doors.
Wouldn’t recommend.FromPHP 9,772
Family friendly
Very Good46 Reviews
Sunshine West|1.52km from downtown
Very spacious room and very clean. Fantastic customer service but was not aware that we had pay $100 deposit upon checkin so just a heads up. But overall really enjoyed our stay. Highly recommend this place for short stays.FromPHP 4,513
Very Good100 Reviews
Coburg North|2.21km from downtown
Stayed here for 4 nights with my 3 children.
Check-in was quick and smooth, with a complimentary litre of milk.
Pool and spa quite spacious - spa was perfect temperature.
There's an outdoor playground as well as an indoor playground, table tennis, giant chess, giant connect 4, kids TV area, outdoor cinema, adults TV area and gym.
Amenities, laundry, and camp kitchen were all clean as easily accessible.
There's a Woolworths just down the road.FromPHP 6,553
Great289 Reviews
Melbourne Airport Attwood|0.85km from downtown
I have a bit trouble of finding the place where the shuttle pick up, and the receptionist did not explain to me clearly. I told him I'm at the arrival T2 but he did not tell me to go down so I miss the bus. Other than that, the driver is really friendly, the receptionist and driver are responsible for waking me up on the following day, they are super great!!!FromPHP 4,496
Very Good62 Reviews
Braybrook|0.74km from downtown
Great cabin! Very spacious and well stocked for cooking. There were a couple of things that needed to be fixed, a broken towel hanger and holes in the screen door but management responded right away. The location wasn’t great and we had to drive to get anywhere, downtown or to public transport, groceries, and restaurants. The one shopping complex you could walk to didn’t offer much. Great pool!FromPHP 5,093
Very Good68 Reviews
Coolaroo|0.89km from downtown
15 minutes easy drive to Tullamarine airport, and next door to a service station, convenient to fill up the hire car I was returning.
Also across the road from a convenience store and a couple of food options if you dont want to eat in-house. The room was large, and very clean (other then a couple of stains on the carpet. In room tea/coffee was appreciated for my early morning departure. Also quite a large in-room fridge. Not somewhere I would choose to stay at long term but perfect for one night convenience to the airport. Would stay again.FromPHP 5,458
Gym
Very Good311 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|1km from downtown
The hotel’s quite near to the tram station which makes it’s easy for you to travel around the CBD. No water provided so you have to prepare for this. The staff are very helpful and friendly. Great stay for a short visit!FromPHP 4,695
Great420 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.35km from downtown
Got to the hotel early and our room was not available. Sat in the check in area for an hour because we were too tired frombour red eye flight. And the kind staff offered us a free upgrade so we can check into our room earlier. We managed to catch some sleep before heading out. Hotel was clean and location was excellent. The room was spacious, but the arrangement was a bit weird as you can see from the location of the sink. Water pressure was low and a full body mirror would be nice. Overall, good hotel and thank you to the staff who let us check in early.FromPHP 5,342
Very Good388 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.74km from downtown
Stayed at Ibis Kingsgate for two weeks as I was here to celebrate my birthday. It is my second time staying here; I also came here last year for two weeks and for my birthday!
The hotel is located within a good and safe area - which is great for solo travellers such as myself.
I’ve seen families at this hotel too.
Ibis Kingsgate is within the free tram zone (you can take the 86 or 96), with access to many amenities nearby such as Coles, Woolies, Southern Cross Station (great for when you have to catch the SkyBus), My Chemist, and a range of food and cafe options.
Located at the cross junction of King and Bourke St, the hotel is also walking distance to other popular streets such Elizabeth, Queen, Williams, Colins, Lonsdale, La Trobe, and more! Flinders is nearby too, and you can just cut across to Southbank as well! In fact, you can even walk to Lygon, Docklands or even as far as Collingwood, which I did!
If walking is not your thing, there are also many options for trams, trains, and buses near this hotel.
Room is adequate and clean, with a nice range of television channels. There’s a fridge, kettle and tea/coffee which is occasionally refilled. Bathroom is good too; sufficient and spacious enough, and for some - there’s even a window in the bathroom!
The hotel staff are nice and it’s always great to be back. Thank you for the room upgrade, it made my trip even more special. I returned the gesture by keeping the room as clean and tidy as possible. ;p
Until next time! See ya later!FromPHP 4,015
0 Reviews
Carlton|0.34km from downtown
Positioned on the fringe of Melbourne's CBD, Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton is a vibrant cosmopolitan hub overlooking the iconic Lincoln Square park The hotel's ideal position central to the world-class Melbourne Innovation District places you within minutes of RMIT and the University of Melbourne, State Library Victoria, Melbourne Museum, Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens. The hotels location provides accommodation near and The Royal Women's, Children's, Melbourne and Melbourne Private Hospitals and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.Enjoy the ambiance of our lobby bar and restaurant celebrating Carlton’s historic Italian influence, venture through the birthplace of Melbourne’s cafe culture on foot, or step onto one of Melbourne’s iconic trams from the Swanston Street stop at our doorstep and within minutes, find yourself surrounded by theatres, attractions and events. A short 2.5km drive or walk will have you arriving in Melbourne's stadium precinct including Marvel Stadium, MCG, Rod Laver Arena, and more.Our 107 modern guest rooms have been purposefully designed with premium amenities and tech to ensure you’re connected, when you need to be. Seamlessly transition between business to leisure with the convenience of our working lobby lounge, fitness centre, onsite parking as well as private dining and conference facilities, wedding and event spaces, in a destination where local history is perfectly complemented with modern surroundsSOLD OUT
Very Good166 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.46km from downtown
We stayed at the hotel as a family with two children for 4 nights and had a wonderful experience overall. The staff was very friendly and attentive, which made our stay even more enjoyable. The swimming pool, complete with a Jacuzzi, was a highlight for both the adults and the kids.
The beds were comfortable, and the room cleaning service was thorough and efficient. The hotel’s location is excellent, making it convenient to explore the surrounding area.
The only downside was the cost of laundry services—$8 in total ($4 for washing and $4 for drying)—which felt a bit steep.
Overall, a great stay with excellent service and amenities. Highly recommended for families!FromPHP 6,603
Swimming pool
Very Good138 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.23km from downtown
Novotel Melbourne on Collins was a fantastic base for our family trip! The location truly is perfect – having multiple free city tram stops within 100 meters made exploring effortless. We easily walked to major spots like Flinders Street Station and the stunning State Library Victoria. Food options were plentiful nearby, making ”food hunting” a breeze.
A major plus for us was the onsite parking. Renting a car was stress-free knowing we had a guaranteed, convenient spot each night (parking fee applicable, refer to hotel front desk).
The room was impressively spacious, comfortably accommodating our family of two adults and a kid. Having two queen-size beds was ideal – everyone had plenty of room to sleep well.
**Things that could elevate the experience further:**
1. Breakfast Variety: While the breakfast was good, a wider selection of hot and cold options would be appreciated, especially for a longer stay.
2. TV Upgrade: The current TV channel is very limited. Upgrading to Smart TVs with access to streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube would be a huge improvement for in-room entertainment, especially for families with young kids / toddler.
3. Shaving Kit Quality:The provided shaving kit's ”cream” (which was a soap) and blade weren't great. Offering a slightly higher quality kit with proper shaving cream would be a noticeable touch.
**Overall:** We had a very comfortable and convenient stay thanks to the unbeatable location, easy parking, and spacious family room. Addressing the breakfast variety, TV upgrade, and shaving kit quality would easily push this towards a perfect 5-star experience. Highly recommended, especially for families needing space and city access.FromPHP 7,300
Very Good91 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.66km from downtown
We stayed altogether three nights here. The hotel was converted from a historical building dated back to 1890s . We enjoyed the stay-included breakfast at Alluvial restaurant. It got charming vibe. the King Classic room we stayed is spacious consider it is in zone 1 of Melbourne. The hotel is in walking distance to many of the Melbourne city attractions we are even able to take some rest in the room in our planned city walking trip in the middle of a very hot summer sunny day.
The bathroom provides Byredo toiletries which we like. However, the decor is a bit dated and need refreshing and we are not happy with the service level of the staff. For example, the phone handfree function is not working properly; the safe is according to the hotel ”in the process of replacement” and not working either; the call to ”Instant Service” for help often took more than 5-seconds ring especially during the night time. There is even a false fire alert during one of the morning time of our stay. I doubt it is a standard of Intercontinental hotel or a 5-star rated hotel.
For whom consider staying at this room type of this hotel, please note the windows is fixed and facing the hallway so the room has 1. no natural sunlight 2. no fresh air and 3. needs closing the curtains all the time if you prefer privacy. Another point worth noting is the bathroom floor is very slippery after bath, I would call it a death trap if you wear the one-off slippers that is provided in the room as you can easily get a slip and fall on the bathroom floor even for a grown adult.FromPHP 12,194
Great122 Reviews
Melbourne|1.12km from downtown
First time we stay at Park Hyatt Melbourne and the experience can't be better. The hotel is a little far away from the middle of the city but it has its own advantages such as better gardens, more quiet and also pretty spacious courtyard. The hotel and rooms gave me a touch of the 1900s decoration style, which is pretty impressive. The room was spacious and well equipped, and I was especially loving the Le Labo brand used in the bathroom. The fine dining experience was truly amazing, with pretty good acoustic music. Overral, the stay was pleasant, and I would definitely visit again.FromPHP 12,418
Very Good107 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.83km from downtown
On 24/6 I ordered fried eggs during breakfast, yet the quality of the eggs were not up to standard, yolk was not normal and with no taste at all, yet I ordered same on the next day with a different chef, that was back to a normal egg, I wondered Sheraton would use such quality of eggs!
Another opinion is that gym room facilities are not enough, thanks!FromPHP 10,659
Good48 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.9km from downtown
A great room and location for solo travellers. Within easy walking distancxe to entertainment, food choices and the free tram network.FromPHP 4,372
FAQs about things to do in melbourne
What are the top attractions in Melbourne?
Some of the top attractions in Melbourne include: Federation Square: A cultural hub with museums, galleries, and restaurants. Royal Botanic Gardens: A beautiful park for relaxation and nature walks. Queen Victoria Market: A bustling market offering fresh produce, food, and unique goods. National Gallery of Victoria (NGV): Australia's oldest and most visited art museum. Eureka Skydeck: Offering stunning views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in Melbourne.What are the best things to do for first-time visitors in Melbourne?
Take a ride on the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel for breathtaking views. Explore the laneways: Melbourne is famous for its hidden alleyways filled with street art, cafés, and boutique stores. Visit the Melbourne Zoo or Healesville Sanctuary to see Australian wildlife. Walk along the Yarra River or take a boat cruise for a different perspective of the city.What are some free activities to do in Melbourne?
Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens or Carlton Gardens. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), which offers free entry to its permanent collection. Walk along the Yarra River or visit St. Kilda Beach for a relaxing day by the water. Discover street art in the laneways, particularly in Hosier Lane and AC/DC Lane.What are the best day trips from Melbourne?
Great Ocean Road: One of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, famous for the Twelve Apostles rock formations. Phillip Island: Known for its penguin parade, where visitors can watch little penguins waddle ashore. Yarra Valley: A renowned wine region perfect for wine-tasting tours. Grampians National Park: Ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and enjoying panoramic views.What are some family-friendly activities in Melbourne?
Melbourne Zoo or Melbourne Museum offer fun and educational experiences for children. Scienceworks Museum: A hands-on science and technology museum for kids of all ages. Luna Park: A historic amusement park with rides and games. SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium: Explore marine life, including penguins, sharks, and other sea creatures.When is the best time to visit Melbourne?
Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) are the best times to visit Melbourne due to mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (December to February) offers warm weather, but it's also the peak tourist season. Winter (June to August) is cooler and quieter, with a chance to explore Melbourne’s vibrant indoor culture, such as galleries, theatres, and museums.