Best 34 Things to Do in Melbourne That You Won’t Regret

There is no other place in the southern hemisphere quite like Melbourne! Diverse, vibrant, and cosmopolitan, this sports-mad Australian city is also known for its rich cultural heritage, world-class entertainment, incredible gastronomy, and dynamic aboriginal art scene. For those who are lucky enough to live there or are visiting on a short break or holiday, there are so many things to do in Melbourne. From exploring the amazing street art in its iconic laneways and watching a game at the iconic MCG to cruising down the Yarra River at sunset or shopping at the iconic Queen Victoria Markets, Melbourne has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best 34 things to do in Melbourne that you won’t regret. Whether you’re interested in art galleries, food, history, sport, or partying, there’s sure to be something on this list, in and around the city centre to pique your interest.

1. Melbourne Museum

Located in the Carlton Gardens, The Melbourne Museum is a ‘must-visit’ destination for those interested in the natural and cultural history of Victoria and Australia. It is home to a diverse collection of exhibits that range from dinosaur skeletons and Aboriginal art to interactive displays of the city’s modern-day culture and technology.

2. National Gallery of Victoria

Popularly known as the NGV, The National Gallery of Victoria is one of Australia’s most prestigious art galleries. Dating back to 1861, it is highly regarded for its impressive collection of international and Australian art. Offering free entry to view over 70,000 works of art that include everything from aboriginal art to contemporary installations.

3. Flinders Street

Flinders Street is a major street in the heart of the Melbourne CBD. It is lined with historic buildings, trendy cafes, and boutique shops, making it one of the busiest and most iconic streets in the city. Each time you visit Melbourne City, try and devote some time to exploring this area.

Flinders Street Station

One of the best things to do in Melbourne is visit Flinders Street Station. This historic train station in the Melbourne CBD is the busiest railway station in the city, serving as a hub for local, regional, and interstate trains. As well as its primary function, the Flinders Street station is a popular tourist attraction on account of its beautiful architecture and distinctive yellow facade. In addition, it is also a terrific spot for observing Melbourne life.

4. Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

If you have children, one of the most popular things to do in Melbourne is go to the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium. Nestled in the heart of the central business district, the aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine animals, including sharks, rays, penguins, and sea turtles. Visitors can explore numerous exhibits, including a 360-degree oceanarium and a walkthrough rainforest exhibit showcasing the diverse aquatic ecosystems of Australia.

5. Royal Botanic Gardens

Arguably the pride of Melbourne City is the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. Established in 1846, these beautiful gardens span 38 hectares around Melbourne’s CBD. Its display features a diverse collection of roses, orchids, and camellias, as well as Australian native plants such as eucalyptus and banksias. Visitors can also explore themed gardens such as the Fern Gully and the Southern China Collection, that showcase the diverse flora of different geographical regions.

6. St Kilda

When visiting Melbourne a trip to St Kilda is highly recommended. A comely beachside suburb, it is known for its beautiful beaches, trendy cafes and restaurants, and lively nightlife. Visitors can stroll along the iconic St Kilda Pier, explore the historic Luna Park amusement park, or check out several cultural attractions on St Kilda Road.

St Kilda Beach

Just a short drive from the central business district lies St Kilda Beach, one of Melbourne’s biggest attractions. Featuring a long stretch of golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a wonderful place to swim, sunbathe and enjoy a range of water sports. Close to the beach at St Kilda, you’ll also find plenty of excellent cafes, restaurants, and other local attractions.

St Kilda Pier

Few Melbourne attractions are as recognisable as St Kilda Pier. An iconic landmark on the beachside suburb of St Kilda, the pier offers stunning views of Melbourne city and the central business district skyline, as well as the beautiful Port Phillip Bay. It is also home to a very cute colony of little penguins. Visitors to the St Kilda pier can fish, walk along, or watch the sunset from it.

St Kilda Road

Running from the city centre to the beachside suburb of St Kilda, this is one of Melbourne’s major roads. It passes by several notable landmarks including the National Gallery of Victoria, the Shrine of Remembrance, and the Royal Botanic Gardens, and is also lined with office buildings, residential apartments, and shops.

7. Melbourne CBD

Whenever you visit Melbourne, it is worth spending some quality time in the Melbourne CBD. One of the biggest commercial and cultural centres in the southern hemisphere, it features a captivating mix of historic and modern buildings, trendy cafes and restaurants, and a vibrant arts scene. Some of the major landmarks in Melbourne’s city centre include Federation Square, Flinders Street Station, the botanic gardens, and the Yarra River.

Shopping

For many people, shopping is one of the most popular things to do when visiting Melbourne. The Melbourne CBD is home to a diverse range of shops, that range from luxury high-end fashion boutiques to quirky vintage stores. Many of these are located within the Bourke Street Mall, which features several major department stores. Other popular shopping destinations include the Block Arcade, the Emporium, Queen Victoria Markets, and Melbourne Central Shopping Centre.

Amazing Street Art

Another one of Melbourne’s main draw cards is its amazing street art. Throughout Melbourne’s CBD, there are plenty of examples of its vibrant street art scene within its various laneways and alleyways. Showcasing stunning murals and graffiti, some of the most famous street art locations in the city to view them include Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, and Blender Lane.

8. Melbourne Zoo

One of the most popular of all Melbourne attractions is the Melbourne Zoo. Home to over 320 animal species from around the world, including tigers, gorillas, and koalas, you’ll find the Melbourne Zoo in the northern suburbs. There are also various exhibits on display and you will be able to attend different animal shows and keeper talks.

9. Melbourne Gaol

One of the more unique Melbourne things to see is the Old Melbourne Gaol. Featuring on the Victorian Heritage Register, this historic prison operated from 1845 to 1929. It was the site of numerous hangings including that of the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly. Today, visitors can tour the cells and execution yard, as well as learn about the prison’s history and the tough lives of its inmates.

10. Bourke Street

A major Australian centre for retail within the Melbourne CBD, this destination is a shopper’s paradise, it features a mix of high-end retailers, department stores, and independent boutiques. The street is also home to several iconic landmarks, including the historic Royal Arcade and the modern Emporium shopping centre.

Little Bourke Street

Little Bourke Street is a bustling laneway located in the Melbourne CBD. Better known as ‘Chinatown’, it houses numerous Chinese restaurants, grocery stores, and souvenir shops. Many visitors recommend coming here to sample authentic Chinese cuisine, watch cultural performances, and explore the colourful lantern-lined streets, as one of the best things to do in Melbourne.

Bourke St Mall

For any visitor to Melbourne Australia, the Bourke St Mall is well worth visiting. A pedestrian-only shopping precinct nestled within the heart of the CBD, it features a lovely mix of major department stores, upscale fashion retailers, and high-end independent boutiques. The mall is also a popular destination to eat and hosts various cultural events throughout the year.

11. Carlton

If you fancy visiting somewhere other than the city centre it is worth popping over to Carlton. Located just to the north of the CBD, the area is known for its charming Victorian-era architecture, beautiful parks, and lively atmosphere. It is also home to several cultural institutions, including the Melbourne Museum and the Royal Exhibition Building, and numerous trendy cafes, bars, and fine dining restaurants.

Carlton Gardens

If you are not able to make it to the world-class Royal Botanic Gardens then consider a visit to the Carlton Gardens instead. One of the best things to do in Melbourne for those who love flowers, the gardens here were established in the 19th century and feature stunning landscapes, ornamental lakes, and historic buildings such as the Royal Exhibition Building and the Melbourne Museum.

12. Brunswick

A visit to Brunswick is one of those Melbourne attractions that tends to fly under the radar. However, this diverse and vibrant inner-city suburb is highly regarded by locals for its thriving music and arts scene, multicultural community, and bustling cafes. It is also home to several beautiful parks and outdoor recreational spaces, including the Merri Creek Trail.

Brunswick Street

Brunswick St is another one of Melbourne’s popular shopping and dining destinations. Situated in the inner-city suburb of Fitzroy, it is known for its eclectic mix of vintage boutiques, independent retailers and hip cafes and restaurants. Along the street, there are also several iconic landmarks, such as the historic Fitzroy Town Hall and the art deco Brunswick Street Bookstore.

13. Australian Rules Football (AFL)

AFL is practically a religion in Melbourne with the city boasting no less than nine different professional teams. The season runs from March to September, with games being played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Marvel Stadium. Seen as major sporting events, watching a match is a must when you visit Melbourne. The current AFL champions are the Geelong Cats.

14. Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground is one of the world’s great sports stadiums. Boasting a capacity of over 100,000, it is home to cricket and AFL, although other major sporting events like soccer and rugby are sometimes played there. If you love sports you simply have to come to the G when you visit Melbourne. If you aren’t able to watch a match live, going on a tour of the ground is still one of the best things to do in Melbourne.

15. Fine Dining

For foodies, Melbourne is known for its vibrant culinary scene which features several fine-dining restaurants and world-class gastronomy. Boasting a number of Michelin-starred chefs, its trendy eateries collectively serve up a huge range of international cuisines, showcasing innovative menus that use the best in local and seasonal produce.

Vue de Monde

Vue de Monde is a prestigious fine dining restaurant in the Melbourne CBD. It is known for its innovative and contemporary Australian cuisine, which uses locally-sourced ingredients and unique cooking techniques to create exceptional dishes. As well as its food, the multi-award-winning restaurant is notable for the stunning view of the city it presents from its 55th-floor location in the Rialto Tower.

Lûmé

Lûmé is a highly acclaimed and world-class modern Australian restaurant located in South Melbourne. It offers a unique dining experience, with a focus on experimental cuisine and molecular gastronomy. The menu features a range of innovative dishes that blend different flavours and textures and are often presented in surprising and creative ways. Having received numerous awards and accolades, it is a top destination for foodies who visit Melbourne.

Nomad Melbourne

Based in the city centre, NOMAD Melbourne is a popular Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant. It offers a modern take on traditional dishes that will surprise and delight you. Operating in a relaxed and welcoming space, the venue features an open kitchen and communal dining spaces, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors to Melbourne.

16. Yarra River

The Yarra River is the prominent waterway of Melbourne Australia. Running through the heart of the city centre, the river is surrounded by parks, gardens, and cultural landmarks. A lovely place to view the Yarra River is from opposite Flinders Street Station. However, if you would like to explore it closer up, one of the best things to do in Melbourne is take a Yarra river cruise or kayak along it.

17. Immigration Museum

One of the best things to do in Melbourne is to visit the Immigration Museum. Showcasing the history and stories of the diverse people who have lived in and migrated to Victoria over the years, the museum features interactive displays, multimedia installations, and artifacts. All of which tell the personal stories of Indigenous Australians and immigrants and their contributions to Victoria’s cultural, social, and economic landscape.

18. Port Phillip Bay

Port Phillip is a large, shallow bay located in the south of Melbourne. Featuring several beaches, parks, and marine reserves, the beautiful bay is also home to dolphins, seals, and penguins. It also has several ports and shipping terminals located along its shores, and a rich history, which points to the significant role it has played in Melbourne’s maritime industry.

19. Phillip Island Penguin Parade

Although it’s located a bit of distance from the CBD, the Phillip Island Penguin Parade is one of the best things to do in Melbourne. During this nightly event, visitors to Phillip Island can witness the spectacle of hundreds of little penguins emerging from the ocean at sunset and waddling up to their burrows on the Phillip Island beach.

20. Ian Potter Centre

Named after the prominent philanthropist and businessman Sir Ian Potter, this world-class gallery is the first of its kind to dedicate itself solely to Australian art. It is located at Federation Square and exhibits almost 25,000 works.

21. Old Customs House

For history buffs, The Old Customs House is one of those Melbourne things you simply must see. Situated near Flinders Street Station, this structure was originally built in the mid-19th century. Formerly used as the headquarters of the Customs and Excise Department until 1989, Customs House is a significant landmark and a prime example of Melbourne’s rich architectural heritage.

22. Live Music

One of the best things to do in Melbourne is to see a live music performance. The city’s music scene is vibrant and there are several very good venues to head to, including the Corner Hotel, Espy, Tote, and Forum Theatre. Often these gigs are free events. International superstars and big-name artists tend to perform at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Rod Laver Arena, and Melbourne Cricket.

23. Port Melbourne

When you fancy getting away from the CBD, head to Port Melbourne. This charming coastal suburb is known for its historic architecture, beaches, and bustling port. It also has plenty of parks and green spaces to relax in, as well as an eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, and shops.

24. Mornington Peninsula

When you visit Melbourne, consider a trip to the Mornington Peninsula. This popular holiday destination boasts spectacular beaches, world-class wineries, and fantastic hot springs. Powered by the Yarra River’s lower reaches, the Mornington Peninsula is also home to a range of galleries, markets, and restaurants, and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and surfing.

25. Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre

The Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre is located within the Melbourne Museum and is dedicated to celebrating and preserving the cultural heritage of indigenous Australia. The centre features a range of exhibits, interactive displays, and cultural programs that provide visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal art, history, and culture.

26. State Library

For bibliophiles, a trip to the State Library of Victoria is one of the best things to do in Melbourne. Located within a grand 19th-century building within the CBD, it houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, photographs, and other fascinating cultural artifacts. The library also features several galleries and exhibitions, including the iconic domed La Trobe Reading Room.

27. Werribee Open Range Zoo

If you love animals, the Werribee Open Range Zoo is a terrific place to visit. Located about 35 km southwest of Melbourne it features a range of African animals in a savannah-like environment. Visitors to this Melbourne zoo can take a safari tour to see giraffes, rhinos, and zebras. They can also engage in interactive experiences like feeding the giraffes and a behind-the-scenes tour of the lion enclosure at this Australian centre for animals.

28. Royal Exhibition Building

The Royal Exhibition Building is a stunning 19th-century World Heritage-listed building located in Carlton Gardens. Built in 1880, it was the site of the first international exhibition in Melbourne Australia and has hosted several other major events. Today, it is a popular venue for exhibitions, events, and cultural festivals, and its historic architecture and elegant interior make it an attraction in its own right.

29. Queen Victoria Markets

The Queen Victoria Markets provides one of the best things to do in Melbourne for those who love fresh produce. A historic and bustling marketplace, it offers an abundance of fresh produce, meat, seafood, and specialty goods. In addition to sampling gourmet treats and purchasing souvenirs, the Queen Vic market is also known for live music and entertainment.

30. Nitty Gritty Super City

For those heading to Science Works, be sure to take the kids to Nitty Gritty Super City. Situated upstairs from it, this area has been specifically set up for kids aged between three and eight. It has lots of interactive areas based around the attraction’s main theme and will entertain your little ones for hours.

31. National Sports Museum

If you live and breathe sport, then one of the best things to do in Melbourne is to visit the National Sports Museum. Found within the MCG, it showcases the history of Australian sports through interactive exhibits, displays, and memorabilia. Visitors can explore the Olympic Games, Hall of Fame, and Cricket sections. The museum also has a section dedicated to the history of the AFL.

32. Federation Square

Federation Square is the heartbeat of the CBD. Home to many of Melbourne’s key cultural institutions, including the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), the square hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year. It also offers some of the best dining and retail options that Melbourne Australia is known for, as well as easy access to the Yarra River.

33. The Block Arcade

The Block Arcade is a heritage shopping arcade located on Collins Street. Dating back to the late 19th century, its facade features a stunning Victorian-era design with intricate mosaics, stained glass windows, and a glass canopy roof. The arcade houses several boutique shops and is an excellent spot on the Melbourne map of foodies for afternoon tea at one of its many cafes.

34. Paint and Sip Experience With Pinot & Picasso

Known as a big arts centre, Melbourne Australia has some wonderful galleries to peruse. However, if you would prefer to create a masterpiece of your own then why not visit a paint and sip studio in Melbourne? Not only can you make new friends, but you can also drink fantastic wine and indulge your creative side in a relaxed and welcoming environment. You even get to keep your work!