Budget | Mövenpick Melbourne
Part of the Accor group, the Mövenpick Melbourne on Spencer is a vibrant and eclectic Swiss hotel in the CBD. The star attraction is the complimentary chocolate hour from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm daily.
Repeatedly named one of the world’s most liveable cities, Melbourne is a melting pot of culture, food, art and sport. This coastal city in the state of Victoria has plenty of things to see, taste and experience. I’ve listed some of the best things to do in Melbourne based on my trip highlights. Let’s jump right in!
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Top Things To Do in Melbourne City
The last time I had been in Australia was about 20 years prior. So I was excited to see how its cities have evolved. Melbourne certainly left a stellar impression. Here are some stand-out experiences to add to your itinerary.
Shop in Melbourne’s Laneways & Arcades
Melbourne’s arcades and shopping lanes aren’t just perfect for memento hunting. The shopping arcades feature impressive Victorian-era architecture like imposing domes and stunning mosaiced floors. These arcades are connected by narrow lanes lined with coffee shops, eateries and boutiques — ideal for a mid-shopping refuel.
Stop by popular spots like Cathedral Arcade, Royal Arcade and The Block Arcade to admire the architecture and unique shops. Look out for bustling Degraves Street, one of Melbourne’s first and most iconic laneways near Flinders Street Station. Known for its cafe culture and street art, this street is lined with boutique stores and quaint coffee spots.
Tip: To further enrich your experience, why not join a guided lanes and arcades tour to learn more about this beautiful city?
Create a Wine-tail in Yarra Valley
Ever heard of a wine-tail? Balgownie Estate offers a unique wine cocktail blending experience. Join their masterclass to learn the essentials of wine-based cocktails and craft your own with the wine estate’s varieties.
We created our own signature limoncello wine cocktails — the perfect pairing for a sunny day in Melbourne.
Explore Melbourne’s Public Gardens
Give your legs a stretch and escape the city buzz with a peaceful stroll through Melbourne’s serene gardens.
Located near the CBD, the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is the perfect spot for a picnic or some nature photography. These gardens are home to over 8,500 plant species, including impressive succulents, palms and seasonal rose blooms. During the warmer months (typically December to March), the Moonlight Cinema hosts cult-classic and new films under the stars.
The Fitzroy Gardens are equally beautiful, with plenty of historic sites scattered throughout. Look out for a quaint model Tudor Village, historic memorials and peaceful fountains. The Spanish Mission-style conservatory is another delight for the eyes and the perfect place to snap some colourful photos.
If you’re looking to experience some live music, add King’s Domain to your list. Here, you’ll find the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, one of the best outdoor music spots in the city. These gardens are also home to the Shrine of Remembrance — a war memorial honouring all Australians who have served in war.
Unwind at a Geo Spa
Alba Thermal Springs and Spa is a luxurious day spa on the Mornington Peninsula, situated about an hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD. This serene geo spa offers the perfect way to kick back and settle into the holiday mood.
Soak your worries away in the indoor and outdoor thermal springs, get a pampering massage, and savour some seasonal-inspired meals. You can even extend your experience by booking into The Sanctuary, an on-site hotel featuring minimalist interiors in calming hues.
Best Things To See in Melbourne
This diverse city boasts a stunning combination of modern and historic sights. Here are some of the unmissable attractions in Melbourne.
Admire Art at the National Gallery of Victoria
A visit to the National Gallery of Victoria is an excellent choice if you’re looking for free activities in Melbourne. There are currently two locations, as the gallery simply has too many stellar works to display. One (NGV International) hosts international art, while the other (NGV Australia) is home to Australian art.
Keep your eye out for the various free and ticketed guided tours. These tours allow you to learn more about specific collection highlights or art themes.
Explore Melbourne’s Street Art Scene
Australia is home to some of the best cities for street art enthusiasts. And with its colourful laneways, Melbourne is certainly one of the places to whip out your camera.
Wake up early to head to popular spots like Hosier Lane and AC/DC Lane for the perfect snapshots. These open-air galleries often get a repaint, which means you’re bound to spot something new on every visit. Some walls remain untouched, though, like Melbourne’s iconic Keith Haring Mural created in 1984.
Tip: Get to know the city’s graffiti scene with a local street artist on this street art walking tour.
Delve into History at the Melbourne Museum
If you’re looking for family-friendly activities in Melbourne, look no further than the Melbourne Museum. This cultural and natural museum has something for everyone. Take the kiddos to the interactive children’s gallery or cast your eyes on the remains of Australia’s treasured racehorse, Phar Lap.
The museum is also home to Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Centre. Here, you can learn about the history of the Aboriginal people through interactive displays and art.
Where to Eat in Melbourne
Australia is home to unique foods and world-famous desserts influenced by European and Asian cuisines. Here are some of the top places to visit in Melbourne to get to know the local foodie scene.
Dine Under a 1.5 Tonne Floating Dragon
You read that right! With its exceptional decor and nightly entertainment, Panda Hot Pot is one of Melbourne’s biggest hotpot destinations. Its focal point is an immense floating dragon overlooking the restaurant.
Bring your loved ones and your appetite and take a seat around a simmering pot of soup. You’ll get all sorts of ingredients, from seafood to veggies and tofu, to drop into and cook in your soup. It’s a unique experience perfect for connecting with friends or family over a hearty meal.
Treat Yourself to Dinner at Yūgen Dining
Yūgen Dining is a Japanese fine dining restaurant. I chose this spot as my birthday dinner destination while in Melbourne, and it did not disappoint. The chic subterranean dining den feels like stepping into another world.
Sample crowd favourites like their fried eggplant or prawn toast. If you’re feeling indecisive, opt for an omakase — a meal curated by the chef and prepared right in front of you. This spot is booked out months in advance, so be sure to secure your spot as soon as possible.
Sample Street Food Delights at Queen Victoria Market
Get a taste of Melbourne’s freshest produce and street food at the Queen Victoria Market — also known as “Vic Market”. This bustling open-air space hosts over 600 stalls selling everything from fresh produce and poultry to clothing and plants.
Stop by for some picnic basket essentials before heading to the park. Or grab some fresh goods to try your hand at cooking if you’re in a self-catering hotel.
Tip: Explore the market with a local and sample some of the market’s best bites on this Vic Market foodie tour.
Wrapping Up: What To Do in Melbourne City
There’s no denying that there’s something to do in Melbourne for every type of traveller. From its serene parks and artistic lanes to its bustling market and sports arenas, this city has got it all.
If you’re looking to explore other Australian cities, have a look at my guide to the best activities in Sydney. Or consider a trip to Cape Town, South Africa, if you’re looking for more vibrant getaway destinations in the south.
