What to Do in Melbourne, Australia
Welcome to Melbourne, a cosmopolitan city that blends creativity, sophistication, and charm at every turn. Its laneways tell stories through vibrant street art and hidden cafés, while the city’s passion for coffee, fashion, and food is matched only by its love of art and design. Just beyond the skyline, you’ll find world-class vineyards, coastal drives, and boutique retreats that make this destination endlessly rewarding.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best things to do in Melbourne for travelers who value authenticity, comfort, and curated luxury. From contemporary galleries and fine dining to scenic day trips and coastal escapes, the city offers inspiration for every style of traveler seeking memorable Melbourne vacation ideas.
Through our partnerships with exceptional local guiding companies like Localing and Acacia, we can arrange private, insider-led experiences that reveal Melbourne’s creative neighborhoods, hidden laneways, boutique producers, and cultural stories in a way few visitors ever see. These handpicked guides bring personal connection and deep local knowledge to every itinerary.
Let’s dive into the 16 best places to see and things to do in Melbourne, Australia:
1. Federation Square – Melbourne’s Cultural Heart
At the center of the city, Federation Square stands as a lively symbol of community and modern design. Surrounded by museums, galleries, and cafés, it’s the perfect starting point for exploring Melbourne attractions. Watch a live event in the open-air plaza, visit the ACMI museum’s digital exhibits, or enjoy the view from the nearby Melbourne Skydeck, where the city’s skyline stretches toward the horizon.
2. Lanes and Arcades – Melbourne’s Hidden Soul
Melbourne’s laneways are the beating heart of the city’s culture and creativity. Wander through Degraves Street and Hosier Lane to see colorful murals and local artisans at work or stop for an espresso in one of the tucked-away cafés. The Block Arcade offers timeless architecture, boutique shops, and a glimpse of history that every Melbourne travel guide celebrates. Taking a guided laneway tour is the best way to uncover stories, art, and flavors known only to locals.
3. St. Kilda – Melbourne’s Beachside Playground
Just a short tram ride from the city center, St. Kilda combines seaside relaxation with urban energy. Walk the palm-lined boardwalk, visit Luna Park’s vintage rides, and enjoy a meal overlooking the bay. The area’s eclectic dining perfectly represents the Melbourne food scene, where global influences and coastal freshness meet. Stay for sunset, when penguins return to their nests along the pier, a moment that captures Melbourne’s effortless charm.
4. Royal Botanic Gardens – A Peaceful City Oasis
The Royal Botanic Gardens provide a lush retreat right in the heart of Melbourne. Stroll among thousands of plant species, picnic by Ornamental Lake, or join an Aboriginal Heritage Walk to connect with the land’s history. During summer, the Moonlight Cinema transforms the lawns into an open-air theater. This serene space is one of the top Melbourne outdoor activities and a favorite spot for both locals and visitors seeking calm.
5. Harbourside Docklands Art Trail – Where Creativity Meets the Waterfront
Along the harbor, the Docklands Art Trail celebrates Melbourne art and culture against a waterfront backdrop. Contemporary sculptures and installations by local and international artists line the walking paths, while rooftop bars and restaurants invite you to pause and take in the skyline. Download the official Docklands Art Trail app for insider commentary and enjoy an afternoon of Melbourne’s public art and creative energy beside the water.
6. Shopping in Melbourne – Fashion, Design & Local Style
As Australia’s fashion capital, Melbourne offers endless options for stylish finds. Discover cutting-edge boutiques along Flinders Lane, international labels at Emporium Melbourne, and local designers at QV Melbourne. Vintage hunters will love the eclectic stores in Fitzroy and Collingwood. From bespoke tailoring to handmade jewelry, the city’s boutique shopping scene reflects Melbourne’s blend of innovation and individuality.
Shopping in Melbourne. Image: Tourism Australia
7. Chapel Street – Style Meets Nightlife
Chapel Street is where fashion, flavor, and fun collide. Spend the afternoon browsing designer shops or discovering hidden gems at the Chapel Street Bazaar. As evening falls, enjoy cocktails on a rooftop terrace or dine at one of the many multicultural restaurants that make this district buzz. Galleries, music venues, and creative pop-ups keep the energy alive late into the night, making Chapel Street a highlight in any modern Melbourne travel guide.
8. Art Galleries – Melbourne’s Creative Core
Art flows through Melbourne like its coffee; rich, layered, and constantly evolving. Explore the National Gallery of Victoria, Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum, or the bold architecture of the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art. Smaller independent galleries showcase emerging talent and new perspectives. These spaces collectively define Melbourne attractions, where art and innovation intertwine to reflect the city’s global influence.
9. Melbourne Markets – Local Flavor & Community Spirit
If you’re wondering what to do in Melbourne, Australia to experience its true local charm, start with the city’s vibrant markets. The Queen Victoria Market brims with gourmet produce and artisan treats, while South Melbourne Market showcases local chefs, fresh seafood, and handmade goods. On weekends, the Rose Street Artists’ Market in Fitzroy highlights Melbourne’s creative spirit through unique crafts and design. Each market reflects the city’s love for quality, community, and connection.
10. Great Ocean Road – Australia’s Most Scenic Drive
A journey along the Great Ocean Road reveals one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal routes. Marvel at the Twelve Apostles rising from the sea, stop in surf towns, or take short hikes through lush rainforest. Private tours or helicopter flights above the road elevate the journey for those seeking luxury Melbourne experiences. Every turn delivers postcard views of cliffs, beaches, and the untamed Southern Ocean. If you’re on a mission to experience the best of summer in Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road should be on your itinerary.
11. Yarra Valley – Wine & Country Luxury
Just an hour from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is a haven for wine lovers. This region produces outstanding pinot noir and chardonnay, best enjoyed on guided tastings or at elegant vineyard restaurants. Hot-air ballooning at sunrise offers sweeping countryside views, and boutique lodges provide refined relaxation after a day among the vines. It’s no surprise the Yarra Valley tops the list of unforgettable Melbourne day trips.
12. Phillip Island – Wildlife Encounters & Natural Beauty
About 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island invites travelers into nature’s wonderland. The famous Penguin Parade delights families each evening, while nearby reserves protect koalas and seabirds. Eco-cruises, surfing beaches, and coastal walks round out a day of exploration. These immersive experiences showcase the importance of conservation and make Phillip Island one of the top spots for Melbourne wildlife tours.
13. Mornington Peninsula – Coastal Indulgence & Hot Springs
Less than an hour from the city, the Mornington Peninsula blends seaside luxury with rural charm. Wander coastal trails, visit boutique vineyards, and unwind in the Peninsula Hot Springs’ thermal pools. Many travelers pair a spa session with fine dining or wine tasting overlooking the sea, creating a balance of relaxation and indulgence. It’s one of the most rewarding coastal getaways near Melbourne.
14. Nature and Wildlife Tours – Australia’s Great Outdoors
For an authentic encounter with Australian wildlife, join a guided excursion just beyond Melbourne. Healesville Sanctuary offers close-up views of kangaroos and koalas, while eco-certified tours provide responsible experiences in the wild. These adventures highlight Victoria’s biodiversity and prove that unforgettable nature moments are always within reach of the city.
15. The Goldfields – Step Back in Time
A 90-minute drive from Melbourne leads to Ballarat, home to Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum recreating the gold-rush era. Pan for gold, explore 1850s shops, and witness the spectacular AURA sound-and-light show retelling the Eureka Rebellion. Nearby, boutique accommodations and spas make this historical region ideal for travelers seeking both culture and comfort during Australian history tours.
16. The Grampians – Nature, Culture & Scenic Trails
West of Melbourne, the Grampians region offers dramatic mountain scenery and deep cultural roots. Hike to panoramic lookouts, admire waterfalls, and discover ancient Aboriginal rock art sites. Boutique lodges, local wineries, and native wildlife encounters complete the experience, making the Grampians one of Victoria’s most inspiring destinations for outdoor exploration and cultural connection.
Our Australia travel specialists have visited Melbourne several times and are happy to chat about the best things to see and do! Call us at (888) 229-0082 to start planning your trip to Melbourne, or browse our Australia travel packages.