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 Good253 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 7,287
Great470 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.59km from downtown
We initially booked just two nights at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne, but the outstanding service we received made us extend our stay—and I’m so glad we did. The level of attentiveness and genuine care shown by the staff truly elevated our experience.
One moment that stood out was during breakfast. My husband asked a staff member at the pastry section whether the items were halal. She explained it to him politely, and to our surprise, about 15 minutes later, the Assistant Director of the restaurant, Mr. Albert, personally came to our table. He took the time to explain the halal options available and even assured us that eggs could be prepared using separate utensils.
While I was getting bread, Mr. Albert noticed and came over again, kindly asking if I would like my eggs prepared then. He immediately instructed the chef to prepare eggs and nuggets for me and told me to sit comfortably while he arranged everything to be brought over.
His thoughtfulness and proactive service left a lasting impression. It’s rare to see such initiative and care, and it made me feel confident that I had chosen the right hotel.
I will definitely recommend Grand Hyatt Melbourne to my family and friends. The hotel is fortunate to have a staff member like Mr. Albert—he truly deserves recognition for his outstanding hospitality.FromPHP 12,128
Great229 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.62km from downtown
The room was very clean and quiet, and the front desk staff were extremely friendly and helpful. However, one major disappointment was the “city view” — despite purchasing a city view room, there was no actual city view, which was quite disappointing at first. That said, the outstanding service made up for it overall.
The pillow selection in the room was very limited and the pillows themselves were quite small and uncomfortable — they didn’t really feel like proper pillows, which was also disappointing. Additionally, the desk lamp was not working properly and kept flashing, and the room lighting setup was inconvenient; there was no option to select which areas to light up, so the room often felt too bright.
The room service menu offered very limited food choices, so we ended up going out for both dinner and breakfast. Lastly, the shower head switch was extremely tight and difficult to turn, which needs improvement.FromPHP 9,082
Very Good282 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 13,693
Great466 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.96km from downtown
Office staffs are very nice and helpful. Location is excellent, that is within free tram zone. The supermarket nearby is good. There is cheap items occasionally. The view of apartment is also great, especially the sunset and night view.FromPHP 9,494
Family friendly
Very Good101 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 6,505
Great285 Reviews
Melbourne Airport Attwood|0.85km from downtown
The hotel was super spacious with a kettle , I think it had a fridge
Lots of coffee in cOn counter , nice warm shower and cosy huge bed
The staff were ok, to be honest few of them could have been friendlier or more helpful, I had to lug suitcase down a big flight of stairs and back up again at 5 am because there either was ..no elevator or just I couldn't find a sign for one
Which I found off for an airport hotel..
The menu looked decent
The shuttle bus was swift and super friendly drivers
It's a little bit of a distance because of traffic
I'd stay there again tho, and the price was ok , decor and rooms were modern and I really liked the room., tv on wall was good , and aircon / heater super great.FromPHP 4,619
Very Good64 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 3,779
Very Good49 Reviews
Chadstone|0.71km from downtown
Booked the Nightcap at Matthew Flinders for the great price on offer and also the reasonably positive reviews. This was perfect for our two night stay in Melbourne for a wedding and relo crawl on that few days. Checking in late around 10:45pm was though the Gaming Room at the rear of the complex The staff there were very friendly and chatted with me while waiting for the manager to check us in. All went smoothly considering it was very late and my wife was feeling weary after flying in from Brisbane. The room was a good size, clean with a comfortable double bed and a single that was handy for laying out clothes etc. The shower was nicely refurbished and the water flow was hot and strong. Cant really fault the stay as it met all of our needs and the value for money was excellent. The location was only half hour from most places we needed to visit so overall a well positioned hotel for a short stay in Melbourne. Nestled in beside Bunnings it was nice and quiet for a busy road location. Would definitely stay again if we need to be that side of town.FromPHP 4,438
71 Reviews
Broadmeadows|2.93km from downtown
It was very comfortable.
In addition, as soon as I entered the store, there was disinfectant and there was also an automatic temperature checker, so I felt safe using the store.FromPHP 3,969
Gym
Very Good301 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|1km from downtown
Hotel is very central to everything. Despite being in the CBD, it is very quiet in the room. You cannot hear the street noise.FromPHP 4,603
Great410 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 4,850
Very Good373 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.74km from downtown
Very good service. Here very good. Staff so nice. We have night flight we can left the luggage here by no need to pay anything more. Just we would like to give you improve about some cleaning because a lot of dust in the room makes us cough because of dust and winter should have some hotel slippers in the room. Everything good and connivence. Thank you. We feel very happy rest here when travel at Melbourne.FromPHP 3,359
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 Good162 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.46km from downtown
On first night we can’t sleep due to noise in middle of night (some kind of construction and noise by truck) until 5am.
We requested to move it another room that not facing the construction site and the staff is willing to arrange for us. Better sleep after change room.
Staffs are friendly and helpful.
Facilities are ok. Comfortable bed.FromPHP 5,854
Swimming pool
Very Good135 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 7,246
Very Good90 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.66km from downtown
The guy at the front desk was very nice. He took the initiative to help me change to a higher floor, asked about my flight time, and arranged for a late check-out at 2 o'clock.
The club lounge is generally ok, except for the fact that one of the lounge waitresses was a bit impatient when we checked in on the first day. She frowned when we called her because we were Asian? They are very nice to white foreigners. Treat differently.FromPHP 11,404
Great119 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 15,076
Very Good102 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 10,226
Good47 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.9km from downtown
The whole building height 26th floor. No daily room cleaning service. Parking is 35 dollars extra. bathroom quite small. kitchen well design for good cooking. location near to CrownFromPHP 4,026
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.