18 top attractions and things to do in Melbourne (2023)

Multicultural Melbourne often tops lists of the world's most liveable cities. Visit this vibrant city at the head of Port Phillip Bay and you'll see why. Australia's second largest metropolis exudes an unmistakably European flair. Magnificent Victorian buildings are reminiscent of the city's gold rush, and tree-lined promenades and a maze of hidden lanes make the city particularly rewarding to explore.

Culture is a big draw. Art lovers will love Melbourne's impressive museums and galleries. And gourmets will also get their money's worth. Famous Australian chefs showcase their talents here, whipping up creative concoctions from around the world - you can enjoy everything from Greek, Italian and Indian cuisine to Spanish and Vietnamese cuisine.

But perhaps Melbourne's greatest claim to fame is sport. The famousMelbourne Cup horse racing, which takes place on the first Tuesday in November, paralyzes the entire nation. And Australian football ("footy") inspires an almost religious reverence. If you are a sports lover try to catch a game at Melbourne Cricket Ground while you are here. Tennis fans flock to the Australian Open in early February, and Formula 1 fans eagerly await the Australian Grand Prix.

You'll never run out of things to do in Melbourne. Explore the city's various galleries, cafes and shops. stroll through lush gardens; boat trip on the Yarra River; or hop on a historic tram to discover the magic of Melbourne.

Melbourne also has a busy arts calendar. Highlights include the Melbourne International Comedy Festival (March-April) and if you're looking for things to do in Melbourne in August, get tickets to the Melbourne International Film Festival. Are you looking for a little piece of nature? PleasingDay trip adventureYou are just a few minutes walk from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Before you embark on your sightseeing tour, find the best things to do in Melbourne with our list of top Melbourne attractions and things to do.

See also:Where to stay in Melbourne

1. Relax in the Royal Botanical Gardens

Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens are among the best of their kind in the world. Established in 1846, the Gardens span two locations: Melbourne and Cranbourne.

Melbourne Gardens is in the heart of a leafy park stretching south of MelbourneYarra-Flow, about two kilometers from the CBD. Covering an area of ​​38 hectares, they are home to more than 10,000 species of plants from all over the world, including many rare specimens.

Highlights include theIan Potter Foundation Nursery, designed to nurture the next generation of gardeners, and theFern Gully Health and Wellness Garden, a quiet place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. HeAboriginal Heritage Walkexplores the rich heritage of Indigenous Australians.

In the summer, live theater is the highlight of the gardens, and a moonlit cinema is set up under the stars. Rolling turf, lakes, large trees and abundant bird life make this a lovely place to stop and enjoy a picnic or traditional high tea at The Terrace Cafe.

No matter what time of year you visit these beautiful gardens, this is one of the top free things to do in Melbourne.

Adresse: Birdwood Ave, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria

Official page:http://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/

2. Find inspiration at the National Gallery of Victoria

Melbourne is famous for its culture and the National Gallery of Victoria is the jewel in its crown. it's not just himAustralia's oldest public art galleryIt is also the most visited. Here you can admire more than 70,000 works of European, Asian, Oceanian and American art at two locations around the city.

The international collection is in theConstruction of St. Kilda Street, originally opened in 1968. The building is famous forthe great hall,where visitors are encouraged to lie on the floor and gaze at the colorful stained glass ceiling.

The extensive Australian collection is inIan-Potter-Galerieinfederation place, which presents the history of Australian art, from Aboriginal works to the Heidelberg School to contemporary mixed media. The large triptych format is striking,the pioneervon Frederick McCubbin.

There is always something new to see at the National Gallery of Victoria. It presents more than 40 exhibitions each year, as well as special events, children's programs, tours, and performances. the best,Admission to permanent exhibitions is free.

Adresse: St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria

Official page:http://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/

3. Check out Federation Square

When Federation Square opened in 2002 to mark the centenary of the federation, Melbourne residents were divided. There were people who loved him and people who hated him. In any case, "Fed Square" has become a staple of the city, a popular meeting place and a great place for tourists to start sightseeing.

You can't miss Fed Square. It is opposite Flinders Street Station, a major public transport hub. The building's ultra-modern open and closed design is in striking contrast to the surrounding Victorian architecture.

Live entertainment attracts both locals and tourists here. With over 2,000 events a year, there's always a performance or festival to enjoy in the central outdoor venue and intimate indoor venues. And here you will also find many cafes and restaurants.

Museums and galleries are another highlight when visiting Federation Square. HeIan Potter Center: NGV Australiendedicated to Australian art. HeAustralian Center for the Moving Image (ACMI)it houses fascinating interactive exhibits on screen culture (film, television, video and art); and theKoorie Heritage Trust, displays Koorie Aboriginal art, photography and artifacts from parts of Victoria and New South Wales. the best,Admission to these museums is free.

Fed Square is also one of theAustralia's Largest Free Wi-Fi Sites.

Address: Corner of Swanston Street and Flinders Street, Melbourne, Victoria

Official page:http://www.fedsquare.com/

4. Stroll through Melbourne's galleries and laneways

Strolling through the maze of lanes and alleys is one of the most popular things to do in Melbourne. Walk aroundFlinders,Collins,jBourkeStreets to see the best of Melbourne's stylish, interesting and quirky.

For high-end shopping, one of the most popular spots in Melbourne is the Grandioseblock arcadeinCalle Collins. With its mosaic floor, historical details and boutiques, the nobility of the late 19th century strolled here and coined the expression "doing the block". Here you can find everything from Haigh's Chocolates and vintage jewelery to designer fashion, gifts and cafes. It's also worth queuing for morning or afternoon tea at theHopetoun Teestuben. This Melbourne icon dates back to 1892 and is now the only original store still in the arcade.

Cozy cafés lure you out of the maze of alleys. Save time to order a coffee, pull up a chair and people-watch for a while – it's one of Melbourne's favorite pastimes.

the opulentroyal arcadeis the oldest arcade in Melbourne andFlindersjDegrades roadsThey are also worth exploring. Want to make sure you hit all the hotspots? Various companies organize tours through the streets and alleys.

5. Get a cultural fix at Southbank and South Wharf

Need a cultural solution? Go to South Bank. Located on the river bankYarra-Flow, just a short walk awayFlinders Street Station,This quaint neighborhood is packed with shops, cafes and cultural attractions. It is a wonderful place to stroll along the river at any time of the year.

Looking for things to do in Melbourne at night? You will find some of thethe best nightlife in townHere, particularly in the South Wharf area, where historic sheds become lively entertainment venues. It's an impressive place after dark, when the city lights come on and are reflected in the river.

Southbank is also home to attractive sidewalk cafes, restaurants and live entertainment, and the many festivals held here throughout the year add to the atmosphere.

If shopping is high on your list, you'll find an excellent craft market here every Sunday. You can also splurge at chic designer boutiques or grab a bargain at the DFO South Wharf Factory Outlets.

Do you fancy a show? HeMalting Theaterpresents everything from musical theatre, dance, drama and comedy to contemporary opera and cabaret. Or catch a Melbourne Theater Company performance at the Southbank Theatre. Southbank is also home toMelbourne Arts Center, the city's main entertainment venue.

While you're here, keep an eye out for public works of art such as The Travelers steel sculptures along the Sandridge Bridge and the Queen Bee adorning the side of the memorialEureka tower.

Looking for things to do with kids on the Southbank? to bring on boardPolly Woodsidein South Wharf, one of the last surviving 19th century sailing ships in the country.

6. Watch a match at Melbourne Cricket Ground and visit the National Museum of Sport

Melbourne is Australia's sporting capital, so it's no surprise that a sports stadium is among the city's top tourist attractions. With a capacity of 100,000 spectators and a history dating back to 1853, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is considered one of the finest stadiums in the world. It is also Australia's oldest and largest sporting venue.

As the main stadium for the 1956 Olympics and 2006 Commonwealth Games, the birthplace of Test cricket and home ofAustralian Rules Football, "the 'G" is woven into the fabric of Melbourne.

Daily tours take visitors on a journey down memory lane to great moments in sporting history and involve themNational Sports Museum,including theAustralian Gallery of Sportjolympic museum. You can also play a cricket match in the summer or football in the winter.

The MCG is directly in front of itMelbourne-Park, house ofAustralian OpenTennis tournament held in January every year. You can rent a tennis court and there are many concerts throughout the year.

Adresse: Brunton Ave, East Melbourne, Victoria

Official page:http://www.mcg.org.au/

7. Enjoy the view from the Skydeck in the Eureka Tower

Wondering where to find a great city view? Visit the 91-story Eureka Tower in the heart of Southbank. This striking skyscraper was named in honor of the Eureka Stockade, the gold miners' rebellion of 1854 in the Victorian goldfields. Adding to the gold rush theme, the building's golden crown and windows literally sparkle as the sun reflects off the top of the building.

skydeck, on the 88th floor, offers thehighest public view of a building in the southern hemisphere. For even more thrills go toThe Edges, a glass cube that slides three meters out of the building to keep visitors from getting dizzy.

Insider Tip: Arrive at sunset for spectacular views of the city both day and night, when the lights flicker as the sun slowly creeps over the horizon.

Adresse: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank, Melbourne, Victoria

Official page:http://www.eurekaskydeck.com.au/

8. Watch a performance at Arts Center Melbourne

The Arts Center Melbourne is the city's premier arts and culture hub. Easily recognizable by its tower, it sits on the banks of the Yarra River near the South Bank and is a wonderful place to experience theatre, dance, music, comedy and more.

The Arts Center Melbourne comprises a range of state-of-the-art theaters and spaces. This includes thestate theatre, home of the Australian Ballet and Opera Australia; 884th placeTheater; the more intimateFairfax Studio; jSala Hamer,the main performance venue for the honoredMelbourne Symphony Orchestra. Just a short walk away you can catch an open air concert atSidney Myer music bowlin the gardens of the reign of kings.

Are you planning a pre-show dinner? Café Vic serves modern, seasonal cuisine and snacks throughout the day.

If you're here, take a lookAustralian Music Vault. The free exhibition here tells the story of contemporary Australian music.

Adresse: St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria

Official page:http://www.artscentremelbourne.com.au/

9. Explore the Melbourne Museum and the Royal Exhibition Hall

The Melbourne Museum is a short tram ride from the CBD and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. This modern museum houses a diverse collection representing society and cultures as well as science and the environment.

Highlights includeBunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Center; thePhar-TurnExhibition on Australia's largest racehorse; and thechildren's gallery, a series of hands-on activities aimed at stimulating and engaging young people. You can also hike through a vibrant forest and immerse yourself in a world of life-size dinosaurs.

Adjacent to the Melbourne Museum is the ornate Royal Exhibition Building. Built in 1880 to house Melbourneinternational exhibition,The building also housed Australia's first Commonwealth Parliament in 1901. Guided tours are offered regularly and the building is still used for exhibitions and special events.

Adresse: 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton, Victoria

Official page:http://museovictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/

10. Take a tram tour of the city

Want to do a bit of Melbourne-style sightseeing around the city? Hop on the City Circle Tram. Melbourne is famous for its trams, and the City Circle Tram is a free and easy way to see top attractions in the CBD and Docklands.

Accompanied by commentary, the historic hop-on hop-off tram travels past many of the grand historic buildings, includinggovernment building, theOld Treasury, Princess Theater,and theHotel Windsor. You can also hop off at major landmarks like Federation Square. Trams run every 12 minutes and take around 50 minutes to complete the entire route.

You can board the tram at any stop along the City Circle route, seven days a week except Christmas Day and Good Friday.

11. Meet the animals at Melbourne Zoo

From big cats to butterflies, animal lovers will find what they are looking for at the 50-acre Melbourne Zoo. Although the zoo dates back to 1862, the more than 250 species of animals have the best modern facilities in state-of-the-art enclosures about five minutes from Melbourne CBD.

Here you will find animals from all over the world. the winnerelephant pathis a glimpse into the lives of resident Asian elephants in a traditional village garden. Another point to note is theOrangutan sanctuary, where the animals live in their home in the top of a tree. And you can hike through a bush trail to meet your favorite Australian animals, including kangaroos, koalas and emus.

With plenty of wild encounters, including roar and snort, sunset music concerts and behind-the-scenes tours of some enclosures, Melbourne Zoo offers animal lovers a fun experience.

Zoos Victoria operates two other zoos: Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo, and all conduct significant conservation programs including breeding and restoration work on endangered species.

Address: Elliott Avenue, Parkville, Victoria

Official page:http://www.zoo.org.au/melbourne

12. Captain Cook's Cottage, Fitzroy Gardens

Captain Cook's Cottage was brought to Melbourne from and established in Melbourne from Captain James Cook's birthplace in Yorkshire, EnglandFitz Roy Gardens. The quaint cottage gives a glimpse into the life and times of Cook's maritime adventures and explorations of Australia and other parts of the world.

The magnificent Spanish missionary style is also evident in the beautiful Fitzroy Gardensconservatory, which is always filled with a vibrant display of flowers. kids will love itsmall Tudor townjFeenbaum.

After strolling through the gardens, head to the hipster sectionFitzRoyfor some of Melbourne's best vegan food, as well as vintage shopping and vibrant street art.

Adresse: Wellington Parade, East Melbourne, Victoria

13. Sail down the Yarra River

A river cruise is not only a relaxing way to see the sights, but also provides a glimpse of the city's historyYarra-Flow. Many cruise companies can be found everywheresouth shore,and it's a fun way to get your bearings before exploring the city on foot.

As you slide down the river, keep an eye outBirrarung Marr,Originally called 'Birrarung', meaning 'River of Mists and Shadows', a waterfront park celebrating Aboriginal people's connections to the Yarra River.

If you are short on time, the timeMelbourne River Gardens sightseeing tourcruiseoffers you a relaxed tour of the city's main attractions, such asRoyal Botanical Garden,Melbourne Cricketplatz, jNational Tennis Center.

14. Pay your respects to the Shrine of Remembrance

Sit majesticallyroyal domainGardens, the shrine was erected after the First World War to commemorate the Victorians who took part in the First World War, whether abroad or at home. Today it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers and soldiers. It is also the focal point of the ceremonies for ANZAC Day, which falls on April 25th, and Remembrance Day, which falls on November 11th each year.

insideSouvenirgalleryBelow the shrine you can explore photographs, artifacts and artwork relating to Australians in war and peacetime operations.

Guided or self-guided tours are available daily, and the building's lighting is especially beautiful at night. From the balcony you can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding 13 acres of parkland and the city beyond.

If you're visiting Melbourne on a Sunday, you can join a Last Post service here at 4:45pm. m. with horn calls and a wreath at Eternal Flame.

Adresse: Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne, Victoria

Official page:http://www.shrine.org.au/Home

15. Enjoy the scene at Docklands

Docklands is Melbourne's newest waterfront entertainment district. With the highest concentration of green-star rated buildings in the southern hemisphere, the satellite town is packed with cafes, restaurants, tourist attractions and parks. It is one of Melbourne's most popular nighttime attractions.

Here you will find something for everyone. Enjoy 360-degree views of Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges and Port Phillip Bay from the giant observation wheel.Melbourne-Stern. take a few picturesArtVo, an interactive 3D art gallery; take the Docklands Public Art Walk; or enjoy some street art scenes at Blender Studios.

Docklands is also home toEtihad Stadium; Youth WonderlandAmusement park; and therefrigerator, a world-class ice sports venue.

Fancy shopping therapy? An art and antiques market is held along the waterfront every Sunday, and you can shop 'til you drop at the open-air mall. Dinner is also a highlight. You can enjoy everything from Turkish and Vietnamese cuisine to contemporary Australian creations.

Adresse: Harbour Esplanade, Docklands, Victoria

Official page:http://www.docklandsmelbourne.com.au/

16. Shop at Queen Victoria Market

Popular with locals and tourists alike, this historical icon has been the hub for sourcing fresh produce since 1878. Farm-fresh treats are the highlight here, but market stalls sell everything from clothing, art, and toys to hard-to-buy items. - Find unique souvenirs five days a week.

Are you a foodie? You can sign up for a 2-hour guided walking tour that includes tastings of some of the best delicacies on the market.

During the summer, special events such as night markets, music concerts and other events are often held.

Adresse: Queen Street und Victoria Street, Melbourne, Victoria

17. Take a tour of the Houses of Parliament

Parliament House is one of Melbourne's best kept tourist secrets. Australia's first federal parliament met here from 1901 to 1927, and the building's magnificent colonnaded facade is a prominent landmark on Spring Street.

One of Australia's oldest public buildings, Parliament House was built during the gold rush eraThe interior is luxuriously decorated with gold leaf, chandeliers and a rich mosaic floor.

Today, on days when Parliament is in session, you can follow the negotiations between the two chambers in the visitors' gallery. Free information tours take place Monday to Friday on non-session days.

Insider tip: Another fun way to experience this magnificent building is to book a high tea or farm-to-table lunch at Strangers Corridor, the elegant, wood-panelled restaurant.

Adresse: Spring Street, East Melbourne, Victoria

Official page:https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/visit

18. Delve into Melbourne's past at the Immigration Museum

Want to delve a little deeper into the people who call Melbourne home? The Immigration Museum tells true stories of people who have moved here from all over the world. Everyone arriving in Melbourne had to go through customs here, and their touching stories help explain the city's diversity today.

The museum is located in the elegantancient customs, and its permanent collection is interactive and engaging. Special exhibitions add to the attraction of the museum.

A visit here offers a different perspective on early European settlement and its impact on indigenous communities. If you're looking for things to do in Melbourne on a rainy day, this is a great option.

Adresse: 400 Flinders Street, Melbourne, Victoria

Official page:https://museosvictoria.com.au/immigrationmuseum/

Where to stay in Melbourne for sightseeing

For first-time visitors to Melbourne, the city center or Southbank is one of the best places to stay with its restaurants, cafes and lively calendar of events. These tourist areas are close to major attractions like Federation Square; the Royal Botanic Gardens; and the maze of alleyways and shopping arcades surrounding Flinders, Collins and Bourke Streets. Here are somehighly rated hotelsin these areas:

Luxury hotels:

• Steps from St. Patrick's Cathedral and Fitzroy Gardens, the luxuriousParkHyattIt is one of the best hotels in Melbourne. Shops and restaurants are a short stroll away and sports fans can walk to Melbourne Cricket Ground and Melbourne Park.
• Exuding elegance and old-world charm,El Langham,Melbourneis a romantic option on the south bank overlooking the Yarra River. During leisure, you can swim in the indoor glass-roof pool, dine at the excellent on-site restaurant, and walk to popular shopping and entertainment venues.
• Also on Southbank, serviced apartmentsWestpierbedroomThey are family favorites.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A few blocks from the famous Queen Victoria MarketRadisson and FlagstaffGardensIt has a tram stop on its doorstep and is excellent value for money within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
• Also steps from a free trolley and a five minute walk to the outlet stores,high hotel inBourkeit is Australia's first carbon neutral hotel. The modern apartments are a great option for families.
• Five minute walk from Federation Square, the boutiqueAdelphiHotelinspires guests with its contemporary style and personal touch.

Budget-Hotels:

• Close to Melbourne Park, the family hoteldowntown budgetHotelIt's excellent value for money, with a rooftop kitchen and plenty of public transport on the doorstep.
• Not far from Flinders Street StationIbis Budget MelbourneCDBIt has basic rooms but a great location.
• Even in the budget price range,hotel essenceCarltonIt is two tram stops from the CBD and just a five minute walk from the Melbourne Museum, IMAX theater and the Free Tram Zone. The rooms are small but clean and the beds are comfortable.

Tips and Tours: How to make the most of your visit to Melbourne

• Neighbors Tourist visit:Fans of the long-running soap opera Neighbors TV can snap it upRamsay's "Neighbors" tourPhone callto see the original filming locations and homes on Ramsay Street. You also have the opportunity to meet one of the cast members.

• great ocean roadday trip:The most popular excursion from Melbourne is the Great Ocean Road and the site of the famous limestone stacks known as the Twelve Apostles. HeSmall Group Eco Tour on the Great Ocean Road fromMelbourneIt's an easy and fun outing. This tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, morning tea, lunch, transportation in a 24-passenger vehicle, and park entrance fees for stops at Great Otway National Park for wildlife viewing and Port Campbell National Park for wildlife viewing to the Twelve Apostles. You can also add a scenic helicopter flight to this tour.

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Day trip adventure: Do you need a dose of nature? There are many inspirational places to visit near Melbourne by car. Day trip destinations are the beautiful onesYarra Valley and Dandenong Rangesand the golden beaches ofMornington-Halbinsel. Less than two hours' drive from Melbourne, you can also delve into the rich gold rush historyBallarat, Bendigo and Macedonia Ranges, and on the west side of Port Phillip Bay,Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsulaare the gategreat ocean road.

outdoor adventure: If you're looking for some outdoor fun, check out these other places in the Victoria region. Skiers will find some of themThe best ski resorts in Australiawithin a day's drive from Melbourne, as well as fantasticfishingand some of thethe best hikes in the country. If you need help planning your trip, check out our articleAustralia's best Itinerary.