by Zoe Ng
posted on 8 December 2024
Did you know that Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities? Discover Australia’s cultural capital, which is well known for its hidden bars, galleries, and excellent restaurants.
Check out our guide on the top 10 list of things to do in Melbourne in 2024 and discover a complete cultural melting pot that’s home to over 100 art galleries, hidden street art, speciality coffee and plenty of things to do!
An overview of the 10 best tourist things to do in Melbourne
- Get your culture fix at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
- Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens
- Soak in the sights at Melbourne Skydeck
- Grab your foodie fix at the Queen Victoria Markets
- Watch a match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
- Take a dip at St Kilda Beach
- Venture out of the city to the Mornington Peninsula
- Hit the water with a boat cruise along the Yarra River
- Experience a cultural event at Federation Square
- Explore the State Library Victoria
The 10 best things to see and do in Melbourne
From iconic landmarks to hidden laneways, these are the 10 absolute must-see and must-do experiences that capture Melbourne’s magic!
1. Get your culture fix at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
- Travel time and distances from Melbourne: About a 15-minute drive from the city centre
- Ideal activity length: 1–3 hours
- Cost: Free, but limited-time exhibitions have an entry fee of $15-30. Cloaking is free
- Bookings: No bookings are needed for general admission, but it’s a good idea to secure tickets online for popular exhibitions to avoid queues
- Best for: Art lovers, culture enthusiasts, singles, couples and families
The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), Australia’s oldest and most visited art gallery, is a must-visit for its blend of global masterpieces and works by talented local artists. The gallery’s rotating exhibitions keep things fresh, showcasing everything from classic pieces to contemporary creations, like the popular yearly Triennial exhibition. Be sure to visit the Great Hall and gift shop to pick up a souvenir.
2. Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens
- Travel time and distances from Melbourne: Located in South Yarra, the gardens are a 5-minute drive from the CBD
- Ideal activity length: 1-3 hours
- Cost: Free. Guided tours and events may have fees
- Bookings: None required unless you’re planning on a guided tour like the Aboriginal Heritage Walk
- Best for: Sunbaking, learning about native and international flora, and getting lost in nature
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a serene oasis in the heart of Melbourne, offering over 38 hectares of stunning landscapes. From vibrant flowerbeds and generous grass areas to serene lakes, this spot is perfect for a walk, jog or picnic. Must-see areas include the Ornamental Lake and the stunning Fern Gully, where you’ll find a rainforest-like setting.
Don’t miss the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, where you’ll learn about the area’s historic sites and significance to the Wurundjeri people. This is a great spot to unwind after the buzz of the city, so get some takeaway, snacks or drinks and enjoy the grass!
3. Soak in the sights at Melbourne Skydeck
- Travel time and distances from Melbourne: 5-minute drive from Federation Square
- Ideal activity length: 1–2 hours
- Cost: General admission starts at $28 for adults, with additional costs for VR experiences or the Edge
- Bookings: Online bookings are recommended, especially during weekends and holidays
- Best for: First-time visitors, families, and anyone looking for the best view of the CBD skyline
Melbourne Skydeck, perched 88 floors above the city in the iconic Eureka Tower, offers unparalleled 360-degree views of Melbourne’s CBD and beyond. From this lofty vantage point, you can spot landmarks like the MCG, Yarra River, and even Port Phillip Bay on a clear day. For an added thrill, step into The Edge, a glass cube that extends out from the building, or try one of the immersive VR experiences.
4. Grab your foodie fix at the Queen Victoria Markets
- Travel time and distances from Melbourne: 5-minute drive from Federation Square
- Ideal activity length: 30 mins–1.5 hours
- Cost: Entry is free; food and goods are priced individually
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: Picking up a souvenir, fresh fruit, veg and deli selections, and other bargains
The Queen Victoria Market is a foodie’s paradise, offering an incredible variety of fresh produce, international cuisines, and street eats. From artisanal cheeses to handmade pastries, the market caters to every craving. Be sure to check out the food truck park, where you’ll find food trucks with an ever-changing lineup of gourmet bites, gelato and the famous hot-jam doughnuts.
Beyond food, the market also boasts an eclectic range of clothing, souvenirs, and locally crafted goods. Whether you’re hunting for unique finds or indulging in delicious treats, Queen Victoria Market is a buzzing hub of culture and flavour right in Melbourne’s CBD. If you can’t get enough of markets, don’t forget to hit up South Melbourne Market for fresh oysters and the best food stalls.
Top stop: A short stroll from South Melbourne Market, Westside Ale Works is a hidden gem for craft beer enthusiasts. This cozy brewery specialises in American-style brews and serves up mouthwatering pizzas in a laid-back atmosphere. With regular events like trivia nights and a rotating beer selection, it’s the perfect spot to relax, sip on a freshly poured pint, and experience the welcoming charm that makes this brewery a local favourite.
5. Watch a match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
- Travel time and distances from Melbourne: A 5-minute drive from Melbourne CBD
- Ideal activity length: 3–4 hours per match, including pre and post-game celebrations
- Cost: Vary depending on the event, with general admission ranging from $30–$150
- Bookings: Book tickets online ahead of time, especially for major events like the AFL Grand Final or international cricket matches
- Best for: Sports fans, first-time visitors, and families
The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is a true icon of Australian sports and is the birthplace of Aussie Rules Football. With a seating capacity of over 100,000, the MCG delivers an electric atmosphere, particularly during big events like the Ashes or AFL finals. If you’re visiting outside match days, the National Sports Museum inside the MCG offers a fascinating dive into Australia’s sports history.
If tennis is more up your alley, Melbourne is home to the Australian Open, a tennis grand slam held annually over the summer.
6. Take a dip at St Kilda Beach
- Travel time and distances from Melbourne: 7 km from the CBD, 15 minutes away
- Ideal activity length: 2–3 hours
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: Not needed
- Best for: A day of sunbathing, families and beach lovers
St Kilda Beach is one of Melbourne’s most popular seaside destinations, offering a perfect mix of sun, sand, and stunning views of Port Phillip Bay. Take a refreshing dip, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pier, or relax on the golden sands and grab a bite nearby.
Beyond the beach, you can explore the lively St Kilda foreshore, lined with cafes, bars, and shops. For an extra dose of fun, check out Luna Park, the historic amusement park just a stone’s throw away.
7. Venture out of the city to the Mornington Peninsula
- Travel time and distances from Melbourne: 75 km from the CBD, a 1.5-hour drive
- Ideal activity length: A day trip is ideal
- Cost: Varies depending on activities; beach access is free, but wine tours or entry to local attractions like the Peninsula Hot Springs may range from $20–$50
- Bookings: Recommended for tours and hot spring sessions, especially during peak seasons
- Best for: A getaway into nature, a relaxing soak at the hot springs, and wine lovers
Mornington Peninsula offers a refreshing escape from Melbourne, with the best coastline views, quaint seaside towns, and excellent wineries. Whether you’re lounging at the Peninsula Hot Springs, taking a dip at Sorrento Beach, or exploring the Cape Schanck Lighthouse, this day trip is going to tick a lot of boxes.
For wine lovers, the region is known for its world-class vineyards. Consider joining a wine tour to explore the best local wineries and sample some of Australia’s finest drops. Make this one of your must-dos for your trip, just a short drive from Melbourne.
8. Hit the water with a boat cruise along the Yarra River
- Travel time and distances from Melbourne: Close to Federation Square, with cruises departing from Southbank or Docklands
- Ideal activity length: 1–2 hours
- Cost: Prices range from $25 for a basic cruise to $50+ for premium experiences
- Bookings: Booking in advance is necessary
- Best for: Sightseers, groups, couples, parties, and families
A boat cruise along the Yarra River is a great way to see Melbourne, providing picturesque views of the city’s skyline and landmarks like Flinders Street Station. As you glide through the water, admire the architectural mix of modern skyscrapers and historical buildings that line the riverbanks. With cruises running throughout the day and into the evening, it’s an unforgettable experience for anyone wanting a different view of the city.
9. Experience a cultural event at Federation Square
- Travel time and distances from Melbourne: Located in the heart of Melbourne CBD directly across Flinders Street Station
- Ideal activity length: 1-2 hours, depending on the activity
- Cost: Many events and installations are free, but special performances or exhibitions may have an entry fee of $10–$40.
- Bookings: None
- Best for: Culture lovers, event-goers, and families
Federation Square is Melbourne’s cultural hub, home to art galleries, performance spaces, and outdoor events. Fed Square hosts a diverse range of cultural events year-round like film screenings, art exhibitions, interactive installations or international festival city performances. With its open-air spaces and venues like ACMI and The Ian Potter Centre, you’ll find something new every day.
10. Explore the State Library Victoria
- Travel time and distances from Melbourne: 2 minutes from Melbourne Central Station
- Ideal activity length: 1-2 hours
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: Couples, singles, and lovers of history and books
The State Library Victoria is a Melbourne landmark, offering a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and culture. Its most iconic feature is the Domed Reading Room, a stunning space with a 35-metre-high dome, where you can sit and admire the architecture while diving into a good book. With over 2 million items in its collection, the library is a treasure trove for knowledge seekers.
In addition to the impressive collection, the library regularly hosts exhibitions, events, and free educational programs, making it a dynamic cultural destination. Plus, it’s also a great place to stop and charge your phone!
Exploring Melbourne: Your complete guide to what to do in Melbourne
Ready to dive into Melbourne’s vibrant neighbourhoods, iconic sights, and hidden gems? Here’s your ultimate guide for cool things to do in Melbourne.
Top foodie destinations in Melbourne
With over 3,500 restaurants, cuisines from over 70 countries to sink your teeth into, and plenty of hidden bars for you to discover, Melbourne is well known as the culinary capital of Australia. You should also know that Melbourne was voted the best city for coffee in Australia, so don’t forget to have a cup before you go!
- Top restaurants: Chin Chin, Cumulus Inc., Tipo 00, Farmers Daughter, Hawker Hall, and Soi 38
- Top cafes: Industry Beans, Market Lane Coffee, Proud Mary, St. Ali, Lune, and Seven Seeds
- Top bars: Caretaker’s Cottage, Byrdi, The Everleigh, and Leonard’s House of Love
Tip from the Author: If you’re heading to Lune, visit their OG shop in Fitzroy and skip the queues in the CBD. I’d also recommend ordering a “Magic coffee” at any cafe — it’s a Melbourne specialty popular for its rich blend of steamed milk and double ristretto.
Things to do in Melbourne with kids
Melbourne is packed with friendly activities that are perfect for creating memories with family.
- Melbourne Museum: A great destination for families with toddlers, featuring interactive exhibits and a dedicated children’s area.
- Werribee Open Range Zoo: An exciting safari experience where you can see animals up close on a guided tour.
- Royal Melbourne Zoo: A fun and educational visit featuring a wide range of animals from around the world.
- Luna Park: A classic amusement park in St Kilda, ideal for a day of fun with the kids, with rides for all ages.
- SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium: A fantastic underwater adventure for families, where kids can get up close to marine life and enjoy interactive displays.
Free things to do in Melbourne
Your pockets might be feeling lighter after eating out at so many of Melbourne’s best restaurants, so schedule a few free activities too!
- Spot street art in the city’s laneways: Wander through Melbourne’s famous laneways, like Hosier Lane, to discover vibrant, ever-changing street art.
- Take in the view from the Southbank Promenade: Walk along the Yarra River and enjoy stunning views of the city’s skyline.
- Hop on the City Circle Tram for a pleasant ride: Vintage trams from the 20’s–30’s that take you on a free tour around Melbourne’s CBD.
Things to do in Melbourne for young adults
Grab a few friends or head on a solo adventure to explore the best of Melbourne.
- Catch a live gig at the Corner Hotel: A popular venue for live music, showcasing both local and international talent.
- Attend a comedy show at The Comedy Theatre: Enjoy a laugh at one of Melbourne’s best spots for stand-up and improv comedy.
- Go rooftop bar hopping: Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline at Melbourne’s coolest rooftop bars, like Rooftop Bar, Siglo or Naked for Satan.
Things to do in Melbourne at night
Melbourne comes alive at night, offering a mix of vibrant nightlife, stunning views, and exciting events.
- Take a night walk along Southbank: Enjoy the sparkling city lights and stunning views of the Yarra River while soaking in Melbourne’s lively atmosphere. Street performers can frequently be found showcasing their talents for free in public spaces, especially on a Saturday night.
- Explore hidden bars in the city: Discover Melbourne’s hidden speakeasies, like The Everleigh or Bar Margaux.
- Catch a show at Melbourne’s Theatre District: From Broadway-style musicals to cutting-edge performances, the city’s theatre scene is buzzing at night.
Top stop: If your night out in Melbourne calls for burgers, beers, and a bit of mischief, swing by Lulie Tavern in Abbotsford. Downstairs delivers divey rock ’n’ roll charm, free pool, live music and stacked burgers, while upstairs, Full Moon Fever, a Cali-desert-inspired rooftop bar, brings saloon vibes with DJs, cocktails, a retractable roof and cactus-themed décor. It’s a local favourite for casual catch-ups that run late into the night.
Indoor things to do in Melbourne
You’ll find plenty of things to do to keep you busy when the weather’s looking a bit glum — these are also great options for escaping the heat or if you just want to explore things indoors.
- Learn something at the Melbourne Museum: A fun and educational spot for all ages, with interactive exhibits and fascinating displays on everything from dinosaurs to technology.
- Go bowling at Strike Bowling: Have a fun and competitive night with friends or family at one of Melbourne’s lively bowling alleys.
- Enjoy a movie at the Astor Theatre: Experience classic films in one of Melbourne’s oldest and most charming cinemas.
Fun things to do in Melbourne for couples
Looking for things to do with your boo? Snap a pic at a photobooth or create long-lasting memories at any of these things to do below:
- Watch a movie at an outdoor cinema: Head to the Moonlight Cinema or Rooftop Cinema for a cosy outdoor movie experience under the stars.
- Visit the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel: Take a ride on this iconic Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the city, which is especially beautiful at night.
- Enjoy a couples’ spa day: Treat yourselves to a relaxing spa day at places like Endota Spa or The Langham Melbourne’s Chuan Spa for some well-deserved pampering.
Explore Melbourne by suburb
The locals know that the real hidden gems are hidden in the inner suburbs, so it’s worth hitting up a few neighbouring suburbs in a day if you’re sick of the city or have the time! Here’s our top suburb roundup:
South Yarra
Much like Collins Street in the city, this is One of the more bougie areas of Melbourne. Located in Melbourne’s south, you’ll find swanky boutiques, the popular cinema Jam Factory and iconic mansions like the 1847 Como House. You’ll also find some of Melbourne’s best bars and brunches for a drink and a bite.
Fitzroy
Head up to north Melbourne to drop by Fitzroy for the vibes. Check out the street art and vintage finds at Rose Street Artist’s Market and Napier Street, and Fitzroy Beer Garden is a local hotspot for a great selection of craft brews and a good chat.
Brunswick
Full of character, you’ll find plenty of great op-shops, tattoo parlours and a great music scene in this suburb. Have a drink and enjoy the live music at the Howler or take a dip in the heritage-listed pool at Brunswick Baths.
Collingwood
Collingwood is the original hipster suburb. Here, you’ll find plenty of trendy eateries and the best cafes and brunches Melbourne has to offer. Shop at local boutiques like Swop, Black Finch Jewellery, Shag and Goodbyes for some thrifty, one-of-a-kind finds.
Docklands
Check out the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel for panoramic views of the city from 120 metres up, explore Harbour Town for some shopping or stroll along the waterfront around the Docklands.
St Kilda
Relax on St Kilda beach, take a walk along the pier and have a good feed at the Espy with the salty beach breeze. Don’t forget to drop by St Kilda Pier. It’s a great spot for seeing fairy penguins return to land at sunset. Alternatively, if you’re down by Port Melbourne, check out Port Phillip Bay for amazing views and surrounding restaurants.
Frankston
Visit the Frankston Arts Centre for live performances before taking a walk along the Frankston pier and getting your tan on at Frankston Beach. If you’re looking to touch some grass, head to George Pentland Botanic Gardens.
Carlton
Explore Lygon Street for the best gelato, Italian cafes, and eateries, or catch a movie at the long-running arthouse movie theatre, Cinema Nova. If you’re feeling pizza, hit up Tiamo or D.O.C., or check out Carlton Gardens which is home to the Royal Exhibition Building.
Top stop: Tucked away in Berwick—one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing outer suburbs—Thirty Eight O Six Brewing delivers big-city craft beer experience with local charm. This independent brewery pairs its small-batch beers—like the Berwick Draught and tropical Hazy Pale—with a smart menu featuring standout wood-fired pizzas, buttermilk fried chicken, and bold share plates. The vibe is warm and laid-back, with live music on weekends and plenty of space for casual catchups, date nights, or family dinners.
Before you go: What you need to know about Melbourne (VIC)
- How to get to Melbourne: Melbourne city is easily accessible by air, road, and rail. The city’s main airport, Melbourne Tullamarine, is just 23 km from the CBD, offering both domestic and international connections. Road trippers can reach Melbourne via major highways like the Hume Highway from Sydney or Great Ocean Road from Adelaide. Taking a train in? Just hop on regional and interstate services like the V/Line and XPT.
- Best time to visit Melbourne: Melbourne is known for unpredictable weather, so skip the dreary winter and plan your trip between September and May, depending on the climate you prefer. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather averaging around 24 degrees.
- What you’ll love about Melbourne: The smorgasbord of cuisines to choose from, iconic coffee culture for caffeine addicts, grungy street art culture neighbourhoods like Fitzroy, Brunswick and Hosier Lane in the CBD. There’s also plenty of accessible arts and nature side by side, and great waterside views, fine dining, nightlife and street performers along the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay.
- Driving conditions in Melbourne: The roads are well-maintained, but look out for peak traffic hours, ongoing construction and hook turns at intersections with trams. Parking can be expensive, so research parking spots via Parkopedia beforehand. You can also save money through prepaid parking from Wilson Parking or CarePark. Watch out for posted speed limits and be mindful of tram stops and pedestrian crossings.
- Best vehicle to hire in Melbourne: You’ll get by easily with a compact car if you’re exploring the city due to tight parking spaces. If you’re planning day trips to places like the Great Ocean Road or the Yarra Valley, opt for an SUV for comfort and storage space.
- Accommodation and camping options in Melbourne:
- Budget: Space Hotel, The Nunnery, or budget hotels like Ibis Budget in the CBD
- Mid-range: Oaks Melbourne on Collins, or the Adina Apartment Hotel
- Luxury: Crown Towers Melbourne, or The Langham for unmatched comfort and views
Explore Melbourne by car
If you want to make the most out of your Melbourne trip, check out some of the best car lookouts, fit in a road trip or hit up the inner suburbs — a car is a must. This way, you can see multiple spots in a day and have somewhere to store all your thrifted finds, gifts and souvenirs!
There’s so much to do and see in this vibrant city. So when you’re ready to hit the road, discover Melbourne car rental on Turo, and start your Melbourne adventure with ease and convenience.
Zoe Ng
Zoe is a writer from Malaysia who now calls Sydney home. With a background in crafting engaging campaigns and writing for one of Asia’s largest airlines, Zoe loves creating compelling travel content and sharing her experiences and insights. When she’s not off planning her next big trip, Zoe enjoys discovering new food spots and living vicariously through Google Maps.
