25 Top Things to Do in Melbourne: The Ultimate Guide

I recommend visiting the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens during your trip to Melbourne. This beautifully landscaped garden is home to more than 8,500 plant species and is a tranquil haven from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a relaxing stroll and admire the vibrant colors, wildlife, and impressive sculptures scattered throughout the park.

Immerse yourself in Melbourne's vibrant and eclectic art scene with a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria. This iconic cultural institution boasts an impressive collection of over 70,000 works of art across two stunning locations, featuring both contemporary and classic works by local and international artists. Be sure to take a look at the famous Waterwall, a fascinating installation that greets visitors as they enter the gallery, and admire the stunning stained glass ceiling in the Great Hall. Don't miss the impressive collection of indigenous artworks, a striking testament to Australia's rich cultural heritage. Just a short walk from the NGV are the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, where you can unwind and soak up the sun after a morning of art appreciation.

The Queen Victoria Market is an absolute must-see when visiting Melbourne. This bustling and historic market has been a popular spot for locals and tourists alike since it opened in 1878. In addition to an amazing selection of fresh produce, visitors can also browse boutiques selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing. Be sure to try the delicious street food and coffee from vendors who have been at the market for generations. Don't forget to visit the deli halls to sample the diverse array of locally made cheeses, charcuterie and baked goods. If you have time, be sure to visit the nearby State Library of Victoria, which boasts beautiful architecture and an extensive collection of books and artwork.

Looking for a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city? Carlton Gardens is the perfect destination for you! This picturesque place has beautiful gardens, fountains, and historic buildings, like the Royal Exhibition Building. Take a peaceful stroll through the gardens or have a picnic on the grass with friends and family. Want to learn more about the history of Carlton Gardens? Visit the Melbourne Museum, which is located nearby. You can also visit the Melbourne Zoo, which is just a short drive away. Don't miss out on this hidden gem!

If you're looking for an unforgettable wildlife adventure in Melbourne, Werribee Open Range Zoo should be at the top of your list. At this unique zoo, you can get up close and personal with incredible animals from the African savannah, including giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and many more. Take a safari tour, watch feedings, or even go camping for a truly unforgettable experience.

Are you looking for a truly moving and unforgettable experience in Melbourne? Then the Shrine of Remembrance is an incredibly inspiring place to visit. This grand and prestigious memorial honors the brave members of the Australian Defense Force who have fought and died in numerous conflicts throughout history. The stunning architecture and detailed exhibits take you on an impressive journey through time and give you a glimpse into the lives of those who sacrificed their lives for their country.

As a tourist, you should not miss to visit Kings Domain during your stay in Melbourne. This beautifully landscaped garden is located right next to the famous Royal Botanic Gardens and offers a breathtaking view of the city skyline. Take a stroll along the Yarra River or enjoy a picnic in the warm sunshine. Be sure to visit the Queen Victoria Memorial and the Shrine of Remembrance, two iconic monuments that tell of Australia's history.

Get ready for the ultimate bird's eye view of Melbourne from the impressive Melbourne Skydeck! This observation deck is located at the top of Eureka Tower and is the highest in the Southern Hemisphere. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and beyond. Experience the thrill of "The Edge," a glass cube that juts out from the building, giving you a breathtaking view of the streets below. Take advantage of the audio guides, touch screens and informative displays that help you explore the city and its landmarks. Don't miss this unique perspective on Melbourne. The Shrine of Remembrance is also nearby and definitely worth a visit.

Are you looking for a peaceful and quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city? Then Fitzroy Gardens in Melbourne is the perfect retreat for you! This lush garden offers a perfect blend of nature and history with its diverse flora and impressive landmarks. Explore the Conservatory, a greenhouse filled with rare and exotic plants, or marvel at the stunning Dolphin Fountain. Don't miss the miniature Tudor village inspired by Anne Hathaway's cottage in England. If you have time, visit nearby Captain Cook's Cottage, which offers a glimpse into Melbourne's colonial past.

Step right up and experience the wonders of the Melbourne Museum! This exciting attraction offers a unique insight into Victoria's cultural and natural history with a variety of displays and interactive exhibits. Admire the museum's stunning architecture and design, including the iconic Forest Gallery, an unparalleled rainforest experience. Inside the museum, you'll find exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to Indigenous Australians and everything in between. Be sure to check out the Melbourne Story exhibit, which offers an in-depth look at the history of the city itself, as well as the First Peoples exhibit, which showcases the rich and vibrant cultures of Indigenous Australians. And the best part? The Melbourne Museum is located right next to the stunning Royal Exhibition Building, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once you've explored the museum, be sure to take a walk through the beautiful gardens and admire the stunning architecture.

Immerse yourself in the magical underwater world of SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium. This spectacular aquarium in the heart of Melbourne is a marvel of engineering and design, displaying an incredible variety of marine life from the depths of the ocean. Discover the mysterious worlds of jellyfish, seahorses, penguins and even sharks! The aquarium caters to visitors of all ages and offers many interactive experiences, including an underwater tunnel, a touch tank and the chance to walk among the playful penguins.

If you want to experience Melbourne's vibrant arts and culture scene, a visit to Arts Centre Melbourne is a must. This iconic venue hosts a range of performances, exhibitions and events throughout the year to suit all tastes and interests. With its distinctive spire and riverside location, it's a landmark you won't want to miss.

If you are a foodie and want to enjoy fresh, local produce, you must visit the South Melbourne Market. This iconic market is located just minutes from the city center and offers a selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and meats. Here you can sample one of Melbourne's best coffees or grab a snack from one of the many food stalls.

Melbourne Zoo is a must-see for any animal lover or adventurer in Melbourne. This renowned attraction is home to over 320 species of animals from around the world, including gorillas, tigers and elephants. A highlight of the zoo is the Trail of the Elephants exhibit, where visitors can observe the majestic animals in a replica habitat.

Get ready for a wild adventure in Melbourne's Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park! Here you'll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of Australia's most famous animals, such as wallabies, kangaroos and wombats! It's also the perfect opportunity to see some of Australia's lesser known animals, such as quokkas and bettongs!

St. Patrick's Cathedral in Melbourne is a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture or religion. Dating back to the 19th century, the cathedral boasts impressive Gothic-style architecture and is one of the city's landmarks. Insiders recommend taking the time to explore the interior of the cathedral, which contains intricate stained glass windows and impressive religious artwork. Nearby, you can also visit Fitzroy Gardens or take a short walk to the lively bars and cafes of Brunswick Street.

If you're looking for a quiet and picturesque place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, a visit to Melbourne's Birrarung Marr is a must. This beautifully landscaped park offers panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline and is home to an impressive array of public art, including a giant bird's nest and a whimsical chess set. You can relax on the lush green lawns, stroll along the Yarra River, or even catch a performance at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, just a stone's throw from the park.

The Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne is an architectural masterpiece that is sure to leave you speechless. Built in 1880, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is a prime example of 19th century architecture in Australia. The beautiful dome, intricate details and stunning design will transport you to another time. Did you know that the building was originally intended as a venue for international exhibitions? Today, it hosts a variety of events, including art exhibitions, trade shows, and music concerts.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature, Lysterfield Park is the perfect destination for you. Located in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, this stunning park offers over 1,100 hectares of bushland, walking trails and tranquil lakes. While exploring this natural oasis, look out for native wildlife such as wallabies, kookaburras and echidnas.

St. Paul's Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece and one of Melbourne's most recognizable landmarks! This neo-Gothic building houses an impressive collection of stained glass windows and features stunning spires that reach for the sky. The cathedral was built during the gold rush era and is a testament to Victorian-era architecture. Be sure to stay until sunset, as the cathedral is illuminated by soft lights that create a truly magical atmosphere. Don't miss the opportunity to take a stroll down neighboring Hosier Lane, where you'll find some of the city's most fascinating street art.

If you're looking for a hub of entertainment, culture and excitement in Melbourne, Fed Square is the place to be. This bustling square in the heart of the city is popular with locals and tourists alike. Stroll through the square and admire the unique architecture that houses galleries, restaurants, and studios. Don't miss the opportunity to take a photo with the iconic Flinders Street Station in the background! Be sure to also visit the nearby ACMI, Melbourne's museum of film, television, video games, digital culture and art.

Geelong Waterfront is a beautiful destination in Melbourne that you can't miss! This area simply has everything you need to relax and make the most of your stay in Melbourne. From diverse culinary offerings to scenic coastal views and cultural entertainment, you'll find it all here. Visit the Geelong Botanic Gardens and experience the breathtaking beauty of fauna and flora. You can also take a walk on the historic carousel or take a refreshing dip at Eastern Beach. If you're hungry, we recommend trying the local specialty fish n' chips at one of the many restaurants in the area. Be sure to include Geelong Waterfront in your itinerary, you won't regret it!

Flinders Street Railway Station is the heart of Melbourne's public transport system and a landmark that simply cannot be missed. With its grand architecture and impressive clock tower, the station offers a glimpse into Melbourne's rich history and vibrant present. Take a stroll and take in the hustle and bustle of Melbourne, or head inside for a coffee or snack at one of the many cafes and restaurants. For a unique view of the city, head to the station's hidden rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the Yarra River and Southbank. Don't forget to take a photo in front of the famous station clocks! And if you have some time, don't miss the nearby Federation Square across the street.

If you love nature, Warrandyte State Park is an absolute must-see for you in Melbourne. This park offers everything from tranquil forests to breathtaking gorges, so you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience. Just a 30-minute drive from the city, outdoor adventurers can enjoy the flexibility and beauty of this park. There are an abundance of hiking and walking trails suitable for both novice and experienced hikers. Visit the park in the fall to admire the stunning colors of the foliage. If you're looking for other activities nearby, you can enjoy delicious dining in the towns of Warrandyte and Eltham.

Luna Park Melbourne is a must for all thrill seekers looking for an unforgettable time. Located in the heart of St. Kilda, Luna Park Melbourne offers a timeless carnival atmosphere with its iconic entrance smiling at all visitors. The park offers a range of rides and attractions, from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to whimsical carousels. Don't miss the Great Scenic Railway, a heritage wooden roller coaster with breathtaking views of Port Phillip Bay. At Luna Park, don't forget to take a photo with Mr. Moon, the park's lovably creepy mascot. Afterwards, stroll along iconic St. Kilda Beach and visit the local cafes and stores. Overall, Luna Park Melbourne offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.