Whatever the occasion (or the weather), Melbourne offers locals and visitors an incredible amount of interesting things to do on any day of the week.

Looking for fun things to do in Melbourne? How about some free things? Or even some delicious things? Things to do when it rains? There’s plenty. You’re spoiled for choice in Australia’s cultural capital, with a seemingly endless sea of stuff to keep you entertained, engaged and enriched.

Maybe you only have a few days in town. Or perhaps even a few weeks. Or maybe you just live here and you want to remind yourself why Melbourne is one of the world’s greatest cities.

I’ve visited the city of Melbourne more times than I care to count over the past two decades, and it never feels like I’ve done everything in this massive, culturally progressive town. It’s not only endless, it’s dynamic; there’s always something new popping up, in addition to the iconic things to do in Melbourne.

Whatever situation you’re in, keep this handy guide close as we guide you around Melbourne’s greatest hits, from the city’s numerous entertainment venues to fun family-friendly activities and free things to do.

Melbourne Entertainment & Events

It’s hard to be bored in Melbourne, given the city’s incredible amount of festivals, concerts and things to see throughout the week.

1. Watch opera at the historic State Theatre

The Arts Centre Melbourne is Australia’s largest performing arts venue. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Sitting pretty alongside the Yarra River, the heritage State Theatre in Arts Centre Melbourne is one of the country’s most coveted performing arts venues. Both Opera Australia and The Australian Ballet are residents, so check the schedule for regular performances from each company. When you see that famous Graham Bennett-designed curtain rise, you know you’re in for a memorable show.

2. Catch a classic film at The Astor Theatre

The grand Astor Theatre in St Kilda is a national film icon. (Image: State Library Victoria Collections)

As one of the finest historic buildings in Melbourne, The Astor Theatre plays a crucial role in the city’s cultural scene. You’ll often find that the only way to see big blockbusters and classic films in 35mm and 70mm prints is by heading to this single-screen theatre, designed in the Jazz Moderne style and operating since 1936. As a timeless symbol of St Kilda’s irrepressible charm, The Astor is an essential stop even if you aren’t settling down for a film.

3. Dance to live music at The Tote

The iconic music pub has been hosting live music since the ’80s. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The Tote is one of the most iconic pubs in Melbourne, having been around since 1980. Although modernisation has swept through and cleaned up some of the grime, there’s still a grungy layer of rock ‘n’ roll caked into those sticky floors. Loyalists swear The Tote has the best live music programming in the country, so line up either a mid-week or weekend gig and unwind to some homegrown tunes.

4. Support some live bands at The Espy

The Espy matches delicious food with good music. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Watching live music at The Espy is another bucket list Melbourne experience that’ll help you appreciate the city even more. This iconic mega-pub in St Kilda has multiple band rooms, bars, restaurants and a seemingly endless amount of nooks. Settle in, sample some local brews, and then get a good spot for the next gig.

5. Party all night at Heartbreaker

The neon-lit Heartbreaker is a temple for good times. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Head to the lively Heartbreaker on Russell Street if you feel like a big one. This bar is open until 3am Wednesdays through Saturdays and has hosted many of Melbourne’s greatest parties, washed in a blood-red tinge and glowing with neon. The crimson dancefloor is calling your name any day of the week. This is usually where you’ll find us hiding away on a rainy night, since the parties stretch until the early hours of the morning anyway.

6. Have a big night out at Rising Melbourne

Seeing is believing but feeling is the truth installation by Paul Yore at Rising 2022. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Melbourne has many arts festivals throughout the year, but one of the most exciting over the past few years has been Rising. Clocking in at just over two weeks, the arts and culture festival happens early to mid-June and is packed with ticketed events and free things to do. Some of the world’s best musicians put on special performances while creative minds across various industries curate interesting events like site-specific works, venue takeovers, keynotes and theatre performances.

7. See the world’s biggest artists at Laneway Festival

Get hyped at one of the hottest music festivals in Australia. (Image: Benny Clark)

St Jerome’s Laneway Festival is now one of Australia’s major touring music festivals. Though it had a modest start, a commitment to diverse programming has seen this event grow to fill the void left by the likes of Big Day Out and Future Music Festival. World-class international artists like Florence & The Machine, Fred Again…, and Stormzy, as well as locals like Rufus Du Sol and Dope Lemon have helped Laneway draw in capacity crowds over the years. Get a ticket early and head to The Park in Flemington; it’s one of the most exciting things to do in February.

8. Boogie to the beats of Listen Out Presents

Join the crowd of music lovers at the Listen Out festival.

While large-scale festivals have buckled under the cost-of-living crisis, the boutique-minded Listen Out has confidently steered the course for years. In 2025, the full-format music festival broke into pieces and started trying to do things a bit differently, moving towards a series of satellite events instead of just one big ticketed show. With top-tier curation, events are now spread throughout the year, so you’ve got more parties happening around Melbourne, agnostic to any one style of music and mirroring how diverse people’s music tastes have become.

9. Line up some games at the Australian Open

Don’t miss the Australian Open 2025 at Melbourne Park. (Image: Morgan Hancock)

One of the country’s most anticipated annual sporting events is the Australian Open, stretched across a few weeks in January. It’s the southern hemisphere’s only Grand Slam tournament, so organisers always make it as large, loud and exciting as possible, building up an entire festival around the sport so that the area of Birrarung Marr is full of live entertainment and fierce matches both from Tennis superstars and rising players. Book your tickets well in advance, as this is one of Australia’s most popular sporting events for good reason.

10. Satisfy your need for speed with F1

Albert Park Circuit comes alive for one epic weekend every March as the Australian Grand Prix takes place. Whether you’ve been pushed into the sport by your obsession with Netflix’s Drive to Survive, or have been a lifelong fan of all things car racing, there’s no denying this is one of the most exciting weekends in Melbourne’s packed events calendar. People from all over the world stop by as lavish after-parties, live entertainment, food activations, and races fill the day.

11. Catch an AFL Game at the MCG

Watch epic games at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Australian Rules Football is inseparable from Victoria’s cultural identity. The sport was born here, so expect an electric atmosphere when you head to the Melbourne Cricket Ground to catch a game. The epic sports stadium hosts all kinds of events throughout the week, but there’s something about the crowd shouting in unison during a heated AFL match that can’t be beaten.

12. Take a tour of the MCG

The epic sports stadium hosts some of the world’s biggest sporting events. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Did you know the Melbourne Cricket Ground is one of the biggest stadiums in the world? With a 100,024 capacity, it dwarfs every other sports stadium in Australia and is one of the largest operations in the country. I’m not sure it’s possible to get a true fix on this spectacular attraction unless you take one of the regular tours of the MCG and learn about what it takes to maintain a stadium that hosts some of the world’s biggest sporting events including the Australian Open, the Melbourne Cup, the Boxing Day Test, the AFL Grand Final, and the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. Tours are usually between 10am and 3pm most days of the week. You’ll get a full behind-the-scenes overview of the full grounds, from the player changing rooms to the media centre.

13. Celebrate Chinese New Year in Chinatown

Chinatown transforms into a bustling area filled with music and food. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Chinese New Year is one of the last major events of the summer holidays, so make the most of it by heading down to Melbourne’s Chinatown for the celebrations. The tight streets and alleyways that make up this area of the CBD are filled with live music, street performers, food stalls and more. But the real MVP is the traditional lion dance, which marches down Little Bourke Street to spread good fortune for all. Make sure you’ve got the date right and plan – it’s always a fun night out.

14. See a concert at Sidney Myer Music Bowl

Catch the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra at Sidney Myer Music Bowl. (Image: Visit Victoria)

To many, the Sidney Myer Music Bowl is the most unique concert venue in Australia. Located in the King’s Domain Garden, the outdoor music hall hosts big-ticket artists, festivals and cultural performances throughout the year. Even if there’s nothing to your taste on the venue’s schedule, be sure to check out the free concert series from Melbourne Symphony Orchestra every summer.

15. Get your experimental fix at Melbourne Fringe

Adelaide may get all the hype when it comes to the edgy Fringe festival, but Melbourne’s iteration is nothing to ignore. Melbourne Fringe is one of the country’s largest, with typically more than 300 shows across 100 venues. Artists produce shows independently, so head along to support the country’s most creative minds as they poke the imagination and fill the weeks of late September and early October with bold stage shows, provocative performances and a general carnival-esque atmosphere.

16. Share a belly laugh at Melbourne International Comedy Festival

Melbourne hosts one of the most celebrated comedy festivals in the world. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Did you know that the historic Melbourne International Comedy Festival, which has been running since 1987, is one of the largest dedicated comedy festivals in the world? Running through March and April each year, the long stretch of local and international comedians is always a riot, turning Melbourne into a stage for witty and thought-provoking comedy tackling just about every topic imaginable.

Melbourne Cultural Experiences

Melbourne is an artist’s paradise, and you’ll find many styles across town, including institutions shedding light on important moments in Australian history.

17. See the latest exhibitions at NGV International

One of the best galleries in Melbourne was first opened in 1861. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is one of Australia’s most recognised and revered institutions. Many of the world’s biggest exhibitions come through the contemporary art gallery each year, complementing the fascinating and deeply varied permanent collections, which are free for all visitors. Make sure you grab a ticket to the latest exhibition on arrival and carve out a few hours to see all 13,000 square metres of display space. It’s the first rainy day activity in Melbourne most people think of, given that you could spend hours here, and it costs nothing to scale the multiple floors of the permanent collection.

18. Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre

The Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Centre showcases Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists’ artworks. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Pop over to Carlton’s incredible Melbourne Museum and make a beeline for the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Centre. Dedicated to First Nations stories, the gallery and cultural centre hosts three major exhibitions each year, each showcasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Adult tickets are only $15 so it’s always worth going in to see what Bunjilaka is up to, especially when Melbourne’s weather is misbehaving.

19. Take a street art tour of Melbourne CBD

Browse beautiful murals on AC/DC lane. (Image: Visit Victoria)

You don’t have to fly far to find Melbourne’s best street art. Colourful, mesmerising murals are as crucial to the city’s cultural identity as its many art galleries and museums. There are many places where you can find some great street art in Melbourne, from the iconic Hosier Lane near Federation Square to Croft Alley. Although our favourite would have to be the quieter AC/DC lane, named for the legendary Aussie rock band, with murals from some of the city’s most renowned street artists.

20. Browse the State Library

Visit one of the coolest libraries in Victoria. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The State Library of Victoria is another essential cultural landmark for both locals and visitors in Melbourne. Not only will you find several exhibitions and galleries inside, but also an oasis of calm – a necessary escape from busy Swanston Street. Or just a great way to spend a rainy day. The famously asymmetrical La Trobe reading room opened in 1856 and remains one of the most photographed locations in Melbourne thanks to its perfect Harry Potter-esque aesthetic.

21. See a show at Arts House

The beloved institution is a vibrant world of contemporary art. (Image: Matthew Stanton)

Located in North Melbourne on Queensbury Street, Arts House is one of the leading spaces for contemporary performance and experimental theatre in the city. Melbourne’s reputation as one of the most creative cities in the world wouldn’t nearly be half as valid without this locally beloved institution, which brings artists and audiences together and serves as an incubator for some of Australia’s most inventive minds.

22. Hang out in the sculpture park of Heide Museum

Glimpse the country’s vibrant cultural scene. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Highlighting the modernist period of Australian art, the Heide Museum is a unique fixture for the country’s cultural scene with three buildings framed by immaculate gardens and an exciting sculpture park. It only takes 30 minutes to reach this essential stop from Melbourne CBD, opening you up to a former farm property that has undergone an impressive transformation and now sits as one of Australia’s most important hubs for the arts. Note that entry is always ticketed, and adult tickets are priced at $25 (free for members and residents).

23. Walk through free exhibitions at the Ian Potter Centre

Find a huge collection ranging from classic landscapes, prints and drawings, to textiles, decorative art and mesmerising land art. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The Ian Potter Centre is usually the first answer that pops up when I’m after something free to do in Melbourne. Operated by the nearby NGV, it’s located at Federation Square and is the world’s first major gallery to showcase only Australian art. I’m talking all kinds too, from classic landscapes, prints and drawings, to textiles, decorative art and mesmerising land art from First Nations artists. There’s a big focus on the power and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, so it’s always a great way for visitors to focus on art from the world’s oldest living continuous culture.

24. See the best of the best at the Photography Museum

MAPh hosts over 1,500 works by Australian photographers.

Not many tourists head out to Wheelers Hill, so you’ll find a mostly local crowd on any given day at the Museum of Australian Photography (MAPh). The beautiful Harry Seidler-designed building hosts over 1,500 works by Australian photographers, piecing together a narrative of visual storytelling from all corners of the country. If you plan to visit, check out what ticketed workshops are on that week or just enjoy the free-entry gallery. As a writer, I find that it’s a great place to visit whenever I feel a bit of a creative block, given the many different strands of inspiration you can follow. For that, I think it’s the single best thing to do in Melbourne when it rains (you’ve just got to worry about getting there first, given it is 22 kilometres south-east of Melbourne CBD).

25. Move through pop culture at ACMI

Marvel at the many rotating exhibitions of film, TV, video games and art. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) is dedicated entirely to the screen. Pop culture informs many of the exhibitions showcased at this unique Melbourne institution, spanning mostly the gaming, film and music industries with highly engaging works from around the world. Don’t miss the permanent collection of over 250,000 objects, dating back to 1946.

Melbourne Food & Drink Experiences

Melbourne is known around the world for its food and drink scene, so take some time to explore everything from classic restaurants to showstopping newcomers.

26. Grab some ice cream from Pidapipo

Authentic artisanal Italian-style gelato at Pidapipo. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Lygon Street in the suburb of Carlton is the home of Italian food in Melbourne, and that means it’s the home of the city’s best gelato. Pidapipo has quickly gained a reputation as the hot spot for the cold sticky stuff. Often there’ll be queues down the street, it’s that good. Once you’ve selected your flavour (the pistachio is a winner), take a walk back towards the city and finish with a stroll around the awe-inspiring Melbourne Museum.

27. Have a barbecue by the Yarra

Soak up epic views while enjoying a barbecue by the Yarra River. (Image: Visit Victoria)

It’s sad but true. Melbourne doesn’t have Sydney’s glittering harbour. But what it does have is the undeniably brown Yarra River, which is a fine spot for a riverside barbecue with friends. Find a barbie out the front of the Botanic Gardens and settle in for an afternoon session where you can watch the rowers going through the drills down the river.

28. Lose yourself in Moon Dog World

Sip on brews paired with tasty burgers at Moon Dog World.

The northern suburbs of Melbourne (well, Preston to be exact) have been blessed with a wonderland that will delight both young and old. As soon as you enter, you realise this is not your average brewery. Sure, you can taste some of Moon Dog’s excellent brews (there are 72 taps at the main bar), but there’s also a jungle area, a lagoon, a hidden Tiki disco bar, an indoor waterfall and a pinball arcade. There’s also a playground for little people, making this the ultimate family-friendly brewery. You’ll also get tasty burgers, share plates and desserts from the kitchen.

29. Gimlet

Settle in for a long lunch at the historic Cavendish House. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Andrew McConnell opened Gimlet in 2020, but you’d be forgiven for thinking this Melbourne institution has been on the corner of Russell Street and Flinders Lane for decades. Its arrival has transformed the historic Cavendish House into a powerhouse scene of boozy long lunches and swanky client dinners. Sit at the bar, order an ice-cold martini and see if you can get your mouth around the kitchen’s stunning signature burger. Or settle for a half Southern Rock lobster baked in saffron rice and sauce rouille.

30. Lune

Bite into the flaky croissants at Lune Croissantarie.

Ever since a New York Times critic described his first experience at Lune Croissantarie, the Fitzroy favourite has been mentioned in culinary circles around the world. How does this humble croissant bakery produce some of the flakiest, fluffiest and most delicious pastries in the world? Fitzroy isn’t France. And yet, Lune’s tight collection of signature croissants, the most popular of which is the almond croissant, needs to be consumed to be believed. Join the inevitable queue and taste for yourself.

31. Find the best Parma in Melbourne

Order a parma and chips at Park Hotel.

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to find the best chicken parmigiana in Melbourne. This classic Aussie pub meal has been refined in many kitchens across the city. You’ll find that many of these venues have their own version of the chicken parma, with a few highlights being Napier Hotel, The Royston, Newmarket Hotel and Park Hotel.

32. Go on a classic pub crawl

Loch Brewery & Distillery started brewing beer using old English recipes. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If a parma crawl is too oddly niche for your friends, wrangle them together for the classic Melbourne pub crawl. Melbourne pubs are easily some of the best in Australia; many of these venues are best thought of as crucial pieces to the overarching history of Melbourne’s lifestyle throughout the centuries. Plus, you get to try some of the best drops from Melbourne’s many breweries and distilleries.

33. Cocktail bar crawl around Fitzroy

Odd Culture in Fitzroy is a cosy diner for wine lovers.

You could pick any of the distinctive suburbs in Melbourne for this one, but for a varied cocktail crawl, you and your crew should head out to Fitzroy. The suburb’s storied edginess has been smoothed by stylish world-renowned cocktail bars like Black Pearl and The Everleigh. Be sure to pop by legends like Polly, The Elysian, and Odd Culture.

34. Have a drink at Caretaker’s Cottage

The award-winning English pub on Little Lonsdale Street is one of the World’s 50 Best Bars. (Image: CC Media)

Shaped into a historic bluestone building, just behind Wesley Place church, Caretaker’s Cottage turns what used to be a tiny caretaker’s cottage into an intimate pub serving just a few cocktails, including a milk punch based on an old English recipe, plus local brews and Guinness on tap. Sit at the beautiful Tasmanian oak bar and drink in one of Melbourne’s most atmospheric offerings.

35. Find the best coffee in Melbourne

Get your caffeine fix at Industry Beans. (Image: Visit Victoria)

What’s the best coffee in Melbourne? Ask that question anywhere in town and you’ll start a screaming match. Every local has their own opinion on where to find Melbourne’s best coffee amongst a world-famous cafe scene, which is why you’ll find a highly curated list of recommendations. Check out our list of the best coffee shops in Melbourne. But if you’re in a rush, go for Industry Beans in Fitzroy or Traveller Coffee on Crossley Street.

36. Tastings at Starward

Sign up for an interactive tasting at Starward. (Image: Visit Victoria)

There are many distilleries dotted around Melbourne offering tasting paddles at affordable prices. Award-winning distillery, Starward, is one of the best and most insightful, complemented by a tour of the production process detailing every step from grain to spirit. The interactive tastings are a highlight, so book one via the distillery’s official website.

37. Drive out to Little Creatures Village in Geelong

From Stomping Ground to Moon Dog, Melbourne has some of the best breweries in Australia. But don’t forget about the rest of the state. Take the short drive to Geelong and visit the immersive world Little Creatures has built alongside sister brewery White Rabbit. This massive set-up hosts two of Australia’s most imaginative brewers and is heaven for anyone who loves their IPAs, stouts and the various other styles that run through the many taps you’ll find scattered around.

38. Meander around a market

Queen Victoria Market hosts winter night markets. (Image: Visit Victoria)

There are many historic weekly and monthly markets in Melbourne. Pick any of them and you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll want to take home from local artisans, farmers and producers. While Queen Victoria Market (also on this list of the best things to do in Melbourne) is the most famous, equal attention should be paid to long-running institutions like South Melbourne Market. Grab some fresh catches from Aptus Seafood, stock up at The Fresh Pasta Shop and grab some energy from Padre Coffee – an outpost of one of Melbourne’s best coffee shops.

39. Crawl around Melbourne’s best rooftop bars

Drink up the summery vibes from The Rooftop at QT. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Another thing Melbourne has plenty of is rooftop bars. The city’s dense skyline is gorgeous from any angle, so you’ll find that plenty of venues need to have an open-air top to meet demand. They come in all shapes, sizes and styles, from classy establishments like The Rooftop at QT, Fable and the intimate Cameo, to casual charmers like Union Electric Bar and the kitschy Palmz Rooftop Bar.

40. Dress up for a meal at Attica

A rich Emu liver parfait at Attica. (Image: Colin Page)

Although it’s far from pretentious, Ben Shewry’s world-renowned Ripponlea fine diner, Attica, is worth the sense of occasion. This hard-working kitchen has built a reputation for telling imaginative stories of Australian produce through well-conceived set menus. You never really know what to expect when walking into that stylish dining room, whether it’s on a date or with some of your closest loved ones.

41. Vue du Monde

The indulgent chocolate soufflé at Vue du Monde.

Vue du Monde is one of Australia’s greatest fine dining experiences, with an extra layer of wow factor coming from the views. Since 2011, the culinary powerhouse has sat on the 55th floor of Rialto Towers, far above Collins Street with one of the most magical perspectives of Melbourne’s toothy skyline. You’re forking out just under $400 for a set menu, so treat a reservation with the ceremony it deserves, slowly savouring delectable dishes like a show-stopping grilled West Australian marron, fan-favourite marron row custard, and the kitchen’s signature chocolate soufflé.

42. Take a dumpling tour of Chinatown

Treat your taste buds to decadent dumplings. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Even if you’ve been through Melbourne’s Chinatown several times before, you’ll find something new to love on a walking tour of the distinct area. Walk Melbourne has put together a short but sweet small group dumpling tour where guests stroll through Chinatown and visit four different venues, each with a distinctive style of handmade dumplings. Grab a few friends and make a day of it, and then revisit your favourite if you’re still feeling peckish.

43. Supernormal

Supernormal delivers top-notch dishes focusing on seasonal fare. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Few people have defined Melbourne’s world-famous dining scene like Andrew McConnell. The culinary stalwart has opened up some tremendously popular concepts over the years, from fine dining with Cumulus Inc. to the transportive charm of Gimlet. But his ode to experimental Asian flavours, Supernormal, is still one of the chef’s brightest stars.

44. Reine & La Rue

The glamorous interior of Reine & La Rue. (Image: Visit Victoria)

An old church has been converted into one of Melbourne’s most dramatic venues. Reine and its sister venue, La Rue, only opened in 2023 but are already inseparable from discussions on Melbourne’s best restaurants. Large, decadent servings of classic wood-fired meats and fresh seafood are best enjoyed under those super-high ceilings, but remember to follow that up with a drink or two at the intimate La Rue.

45. Find Melbourne’s best wine bars

Expect creative dishes and exceptional wine at Marion Wine Bar. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Melbourne does have the “best of" almost everything. You’ve already dominated the pub scene, found the best parma and sipped around Fitzroy’s cocktail bars. Now it’s time to turn to Vino. Grab some friends and map out Melbourne’s best wine bars, with essential stops including Marion Wine Bar in Fitzroy and Embla in the CBD.

46. Have an Italian food crawl of Lygon Street

Make a beeline for authentic gelato at Pidapipo. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Australia’s premier Italian precinct is Melbourne’s Lygon Street. The long, winding strip is crawling with popular Italian restaurants. Avoid the touts trying to get your attention and hop straight to the highlights like legendary Tiamo and Johnny’s Green Room. Both spots are right next to each other, so we recommend dinner at Tiamo followed by a digestif at the upbeat Johnny’s.

47. Slurp Noodles at Soi 38

A warm bowl of house-made noodles at Soi 38.

Melbourne boasts some of Australia’s best Thai restaurants, but few have the same grip over locals as Soi 38. The northeastern Thai restaurant moved from its carpark location into a new space on Bourke Street, fitting up to five times as many diners as before. Order a big bowl of boat noodles swimming in pork broth flavoured with star anise and a five-spice housemade powder.

48. Studio Amaro

Italian dining is moving away from those big, boisterous power moves that are perfect bait for client lunches. It’s all about sunny aperitivo-inspired casuals now, usually centred around pull-apart loaves of bread, rounds of colourful spritz, and share-style antipasto. Studio Amaro nails the trend perfectly, opening up to the Windsor side of Chapel Street with a buzzing, highly sociable space where simple plates like anchovies in olive oil and burrata salad are just as important as those big, twirly plates of seafood mafaldine.

Melbourne Attractions

Melbourne’s most definitive institutions each represent an important part of the city’s cultural history.

49. Snap a selfie at Degraves Street

This iconic strip captures the essence of Melbourne’s charm. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Melbourne’s laneway culture peaks with Degraves Street. The iconic strip is a self-contained image of everything that makes Melbourne so great, with on-street dining lining the area between Flinders Lane and Flinders Street. While Melbourne’s other big-name laneway, Centre Place, is noted for its food, Degraves Street is broader in scope with some incredible cafes, artisan stores, and wine bars.

50. Take the family to Melbourne Zoo

Have a close encounter with a meerkat. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’re after kids’ activities in Melbourne, you’ll find no greater option than Melbourne Zoo. Conveniently located in Parkville, just outside of Melbourne CBD, great lengths have been taken to turn this into a world-class animal sanctuary. Plan well in advance and book the Trial of the Elephants experience or book a room for the family at Roar ‘n’ Snore, where you can camp in the historic elephant exhibition before getting a private tour.

51. Ride a tram

Get around the CBD on a tram. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Melbourne’s trams are part of the furniture and an essential way for people to get around between the city’s distinctive suburbs. Much like New York City’s iconic subway, the city has been designed around tram stops, so even just one ride is a rite of passage for out-of-towners. Save some money and take advantage of the Free Tram Zone, which extends from Queen Victoria Market to Flinders Street Station and includes stops in Docklands, Spring Street and Federation Square.

52. Explore the depths of Melbourne Aquarium

See marine life up close at Melbourne Aquarium. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Much like Melbourne Zoo, the city’s signature aquarium is a great option if you’re looking for things to do with kids in Melbourne. The family-friendly activity pulls visitors into a series of interconnected aquatic ecosystems, showcasing everything from tropical reefs to unique arctic environments. You’ll see live jellyfish, sea dragons, saltwater crocodiles, and sharks.

53. Visit the Old Melbourne Gaol

The region’s oldest prison was built in the mid-1800s. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Rainy outside today? Distract yourself from the miserable weather at Old Melbourne Gaol, where the darker details of Melbourne history are laid bluntly. This is where Ned Kelly was hanged, after all. In fact, around 133 criminals were executed during the prison’s 80-year history, and the tour doesn’t shy away from the gory details. Nightly ghost tours run on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays and are the best way to bring this old place of death back to life.

54. Take some time out at Melbourne Botanical Gardens

I may be biased, but this is one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. On equal footing, I’d say, with gems like Kirstenbosch in Cape Town and Butchart Gardens in British Columbia. While it’s much smaller than those two, measuring around 94 acres, the sprawling sense of space and countless nooks make this a sanctuary when life gets a little bit too loud. The landscape slopes down to the river with many lakes and lawns, providing enough space for around 50,000 individual plants. The best part: it’s completely free to enter from 7:30am to 7:30pm seven days a week.

Melbourne Sights & Activities

The many sights, sounds and activities that define Melbourne range from sea to sky.

55. Fly over the city in a hot air balloon

Float over Melbourne at sunrise with Global Ballooning Australia. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Wake up before the crack of dawn and stroll into the undercarriage of a grand hot air balloon. Global Ballooning Australia offers an incredible sunrise expedition over some of Melbourne’s most iconic locations. The company also offers popular rides over the Yarra Valley, so go for that if you’re in the mood for some bucolic scenes instead.

56. Hike around Hanging Rock Summit

Located in Newham, just an hour from the CBD, the Hanging Rock Summit offers some of the best and most picturesque hiking in Melbourne. Numerous trails lead from the car park and require varying levels of fitness, so you’re guaranteed to find something that’d suit while you get outdoors for a bit and give yourself over to some of Victoria’s best views, coloured by the rustic red faces of the six-million-year-old rock formations that make up the Macedon Ranges.

57. Explore the history of Abbotsford Convent

Watch artists spin high-quality ceramics at Abbotsford Convent. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Opened in 1863 by The Sisters of the Good Shepherd, the historic Abbotsford Convent acted as a shelter for thousands of women and children dealing with poverty. What was once a charitable venture providing food, education, and work is now one of Australia’s largest arts and cultural precincts, with over 120 studios, galleries, a school, and a women-led restaurant called Julie. Head here for lunch and spend a few hours exploring the site’s illuminating history.

58. Watch the penguins march at Phillip Island

A colony of penguins on Phillip Island. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Take the two-hour drive down to Phillip Island for an amazing family-friendly experience. The small, scenic island features its own chocolate factory and wildlife parks, but the real reason most make the trek is to watch the fairy penguin parade just after sunset. Given the island is home to the largest fairy penguin colony in the world, watching as they collectively waddle across the sand is pure magic.

59. Find some peace of mind at Fitzroy Gardens

The Victorian-era Fitzroy Gardens are peppered with colourful flowerbeds. (Image: Visit Victoria)

While there are many impressive parks around Melbourne, Fitzroy Gardens hold a special place in our hearts. The massive inner-city garden contrasts with the grungy surroundings, with many different areas and points of interest. Take a few hours and walk around; your path should lead you to surprising moments like a model Tudor Village, the Spanish Mission-style Conservatory, and even Captain Cook’s 1755 family home. Don’t forget to bring a camera to snap shots of all the gorgeous floral arrangements.

60. Try to catch the Aurora Australis

Cape Schanck Lighthouse is a popular spot to see the Southern Lights. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Rare phenomenon aside, it’s hard to catch a glimpse of the Aurora in Australia. That is, unless you know where and when to look. The Aurora Australis, also known as Southern Lights, can be seen during winter from a few places in and around Melbourne. If feeling lucky, make sure the conditions are clear and then try to get up to Cape Schanck, Point Lonsdale, and Aireys Inlet.

61. See the Yarra from a GoBoat

Hire a tiny boat and sail down the Yarra. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Get a group together and head on over to Docklands. The very unique GoBoat is located here, offering these tiny round boats for hire that you can sail down the Yarra River with a picnic table in the middle. Sail past Melbourne’s bustling waterfront while you sip wine and pick at a charcuterie board. The best part is that anyone can do it; you don’t even need a boating licence to operate one of these simple vessels.

62. Shop along Brunswick Street

Pop into one of the trendy cafes along Brunswick Street. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Melbourne has a few iconic shopping strips, but few are as diverse and endlessly engaging as Brunswick Street. Fitzroy’s main drag is a pure trove of homegrown fashion labels sandwiched next to vintage clothing stores, secondhand emporiums and markets. You’ll easily find a few things to complement your style, so be patient and dedicate a few hours to shopping up and down this busy inner-city strip.

63. Kayak tour down the Yarra

Paddle down the scenic river. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If taking a GoBoat down the Yarra River isn’t to your taste, perhaps you’d like to switch your picnic dinghy for a good old-school kayak. Hit up Kayak Melbourne, grab a few friends, and have a scenic paddle down the river while looking up at Melbourne’s skyline. The best time to do all this is during the Moonlight Kayak Tour, which lasts 2.5 hours and is suitable for all ages.

64. Discover the timeless charm of St Kilda

Stroll down the pier at sunset. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Melbourne’s most timeless and romantic suburb always feels like a warm hug from the past. Nostalgia is caked into every corner of St Kilda, making the iconic scene of Luna Park, St Kilda Beach and the esplanade enough to make anyone tear up. The unique suburb has never shed its bohemian image, so it has plenty of trendy restaurants, bars and shops to keep you busy for days. Spend some time at the beach, grab a drink nearby and relive your childhood at Luna Park. Just don’t forget to stroll down to Jacka Boulevard during sunset – you might get some company from a dozen or so fairy penguins. The best part: it costs nothing, and you’ll usually find buskers soundtracking the sunset with the sweet sounds of jazz.

65. Go gift shopping at Block Arcade

The iconic arcade feature ornate architecture. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Melbourne’s charming Block Arcade has been sitting pretty since the 1890s, admired for its elevated domed glass ceilings and ornate architecture. The visually impactful shopping strip also sets the scene for some of Australia’s most beloved businesses, ranging from vintage tea rooms and watchmakers to Haigh’s chocolate and several excellent jewellers. It’s a popular spot for gift shopping, but you’ll likely find something you want to keep for yourself as well.

66. Run around The Tan

Start your morning right with a scenic run around The Tan.

The best way to see any city is to go for a scenic jog. If you feel like getting your steps up while seeing some of the most beautiful sights in Melbourne, then make a beeline for The Tan. This 3.8-kilometre stretch, a former horse-racing track, is perfect for joggers, framed by the Royal Botanic Gardens. You won’t find much privacy, as locals have adored this spot for decades, but you will find just one more thing to love about Melbourne’s relaxed lifestyle.

67. Hang out on the world’s coolest street

The coolest street features eclectic boutiques and trendy cafes. (Image: Visit Victoria)

High Street, the massive strip that threads Northcote with Thornbury and Preston, was dubbed the world’s coolest street in 2024. It’s hard to argue when the street’s boho-chic aesthetic is elevated by various record shops, indie cinemas, restaurants, bars, cafes and shops. There are little to no chain stores on the strip, meaning you’re darting across exclusively independent businesses offering a sharp sense of place in Melbourne’s inner north.

Melbourne Staycations

Melbourne has some of the best hotels in Australia scattered across town, so base yourself in one of those exceptionally comfortable pockets of hospitality.

68. The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne

Take in city views from the infinity pool on the 5th floor. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Opened in 2023, The Ritz-Carlton is just a stone’s throw from Marvel Stadium and offers incredible views of the Melbourne skyline. If you’re in the mood for an elevated stay, book into one of the 257 guest rooms and suites that have been treated with a gentle, calming approach to interior design. The 80-floor hotel is also crowned by one of Melbourne’s hottest restaurants, Atria, and a cosy cocktail lounge that keeps things simple and premium.

69. The Olsen

The hotel features original works and prints by John Olsen. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Melbourne has several Art Series hotels, each with their own loyal following of locals and visitors who swear by them every time they need somewhere to stay. The Olsen, which is dedicated to the colourful art of John Olsen, is the most sophisticated of them, with a great location on Chapel Street in South Yarra. We recommend booking a night or two and exploring the winding strip, which is packed with some of Melbourne’s best casual restaurants and bars.

70. QT Melbourne

The stylish hotel features bold design and artistic flair. (Image: Visit Victoria)

QT Melbourne is much more than its iconic rooftop bar. The quirky, fashion-forward lifestyle hotel has done plenty to establish itself as one of Melbourne’s best hotels, piercing the heart of the CBD with a buzzy social scene and 188 guest rooms and suites. Book in for a quick staycation if you can’t stand to peel yourself away from the city centre, and make sure you’ve got dinner booked in at the excellent Pascale Bar & Grill.

71. Adelphi Hotel

Modern elegance meets historic charm at the Adelphi Hotel. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Noted mostly for its angular cantilevered pool with glass-bottomed views of Flinders Lane, Adelphi Hotel remains one of the most coveted boutique hotels in Melbourne. The property only has 34 rooms, each generously sized with a tremendous amount of privacy. So if you want that air of exclusivity and to feel like you’ve escaped the hustle and bustle of Melbourne CBD, Adelphi Hotel is a great choice for a staycation.

72. Quincy Hotel

Quincy Hotel on Flinders Lane makes a great base for exploration.

Located on Flinders Lane, the Quincy Hotel is a colourful boutique-minded hotel with three restaurants, a rooftop pool and 241 rooms and suites. Although it’s only been around for a few years, the property is a local favourite, given that it’s surrounded by an incredible amount of high-quality shopping and dining. Its proximity to Federation Square also means you’re a short walk from NGV International and everything that makes Melbourne CBD such a walkable gem.

73. 1 Hotel Melbourne

Book your stay at the eco-luxury 1 Hotel Melbourne on the edge of Melbourne’s CBD.

The fresh-faced 1 Hotel brand has debuted in Australia, choosing the banks of the Yarra River as its first local location. And what a debut it’s been for 1 Hotel Melbourne, bringing us a sustainable luxury hotel that goes far beyond the typical green-washing talk and really connects guests to nature. The biophilic design, upcycled materials and health-conscious options are the headliners, but the real reason to stay here is to get inspired by the seamless blend of luxury and eco-conscious living, showing guests that they can easily have both with the right design choices.