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It’s easy to fall in love with Melbourne! It has everything you expect from a big city that will keep you on your toes for weeks. If you want to be one of its explorers, start with these amazing things to do in Melbourne and the rest will reveal itself on its own.
1. Take in 360 degrees view over Melbourne
Before you go anywhere else, climb to the top of the Eureka Tower and step on its Skydeck. As the second tallest building in the country, you will have an above view of the city that will give you a glimpse of its greatness.
Grab a drink up there or something to eat, have a look through telescopes, and take pictures with the city panorama behind you. If you come here before sunset, you will see one of the most beautiful sights of the sun going down over the ocean.
2. Hop on the Yarra River cruise
Going on a cruise on the Yarra River will give you a different view of the city and later you can stop by one of the many restaurants for dinner. However, Yarra may sound familiar for another reason and that’s some of the finest wines in the world. With more than 100 wineries, Yarra Valley is an attractive destination with scenic landscapes only an hour away from Melbourne.
Those interested in active holidays can go for a hike or bike ride on the Main Yarra Trail next to the river. While on the trail, stop by the Collingwood Children’s Farm where you can pet sheep, cows, and other animals, as well as have coffee at the Farm Café. Moreover, Yarra’s serene environment is also home to a variety of beautiful songbirds, creating a harmonious backdrop to your outdoor adventures. Fans of beer will love the breweries here that make some of the best craft varieties, like Moon Dog and Bodriggy.
3. Marvel the flora of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is one of the biggest botanic gardens in the world that is green throughout the year. If you come to the city in summer, you will enjoy the blooms but anytime is a good time to visit and explore this landmark.
When you are taking a day off from sightseeing, stop by the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria and have a picnic under one of the trees to relax. Close by the Gardens is the Shrine of Remembrance — a World War 2 Memorial with sculptures decorating its four floors.
4. Enjoy the bustling city nightlife
Those who are looking for fun and excitement can try the nightlife offered in Melbourne which has something for everyone. The Queen Victoria Night Market is a treat for those who want to buy handmade crafts and try a variety of street food every Wednesday night.
If you are into something wilder, stop by the largest casino in Australia, the Crown Casino to try your luck. Exclusive Melbourne brothels and classy restaurants are nearby, as well as bars and luxurious hotels. Night tours, like the Creepy Tales Tour of Melbourne CBD, are perfect to meet a different side of the city told through historical and spooky stories.
5. Have a ride at the Luna Park
Luna Park is located on the water and its wooden rollercoaster is one of the oldest in Australia. Walk through the huge clown face at the entrance during the weekend and enjoy some thrilling rides and carnival food.
If you get the munchies for something sweet afterward, you will find pastry shops on the nearby Acland Street. Moreover, you can stop by the St Kilda Esplanade Market on Sunday where you can buy crafts made by the local artisans.
6. Stop by the Icebar Melbourne
Icebar Melbourne offers a unique experience for its patrons by being the coldest place in the city. It’s made from 50 tons of ice which is turned into an interior and maintained by subzero temperatures. Tickets for the bar include Arctic gear to keep you warm and one cocktail.
Once here, you can visit St Paul’s Cathedral, the tallest church on the continent, and have a coffee at the Chapter House Café nearby. If you wanted to see Melbourne’s museums, there are many of those in the Federation Square close by, like the art museum Ian Potter Centre and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) Museum.
Granted, there are more amazing things to do in Melbourne than the ones on our list, but the city is more fun if you see it as an adventure to explore. Lots of landmarks are close to each other so you can fit them in the same day or you can take a trip outside the city for a more peaceful experience.
