Looking for the best things to do in Melbourne? Consider this your ultimate travel guide to Victoria’s cultural capital!
The city of Melbourne offers a plethora of activities and attractions that promise an unforgettable experience for all ages. Whether it’s a unique dining experience, visiting a local exhibition, or catching one of Australia’s favorite pastimes (the footy!) you will find a host of local haunts and hidden treasures in this vibrant and charming city.
Here are the top things to do in Melbourne 2023:
1. Discover Melbourne’s Iconic Landmarks
Melbourne is home to some incredible landmarks, from heritage-listed buildings to modern attractions. To kick off your Melbourne getaway, visit the Eureka Skydeck. The Skydeck is the second-tallest skyscraper in the southern hemisphere where you can get panoramic views of the city and beyond. From there, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Yarra River, and marvel at the stunning architecture of the Royal Exhibition Building – a true landmark of Melbourne.
2. Go Gallery-Hopping
Melbourne is home to many museums, art galleries, and exhibitions that cater to all interests. Head to the world’s largest digital art gallery and step inside your favorite art at LUME. Next, visit Melbourne Museum to discover Australia’s natural and cultural history. Got kids? Let their imagination run wild in the interactive exhibits at Scienceworks.
3. Spend Time in Nature
Venture into Melbourne’s beautiful outdoor spaces for some peace away from the bustle. Pack a picnic and spend a day at the Royal Botanic Gardens, where children can run around and play. For animal lovers, a trip to Melbourne Zoo or Healesville Sanctuary offers the chance to see unique Australian wildlife up close. For something unique, hire a boat and cruise the Yarra River for the best view of the city’s surroundings.
4. Delight in Fun-Filled Theme Parks
Melbourne is home to exciting theme parks that guarantee a day of fun and excitement for the whole family. Step inside the giant laughing clown face with a visit to the historic Luna Park for classic carnival games and amusement rides, including the heritage-listed Great Scenic Railway (the oldest operating rollercoaster in the southern hemisphere and the second-oldest in the world!).
5. Explore Local Markets and Festivals
Stroll through Melbourne’s family-friendly markets and immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine. Queen Victoria Market offers a diverse range of food, shopping, and entertainment options from fresh seafood and locally-produced coffee. In 2023, Melbourne is host to some exciting festivals including Rainbow Serpent (a multi-day music, arts, lifestyle and cultural festival), electronic music festival Strawberry Fields, and The Melbourne Royal Show. Make sure to check What’s On for all upcoming events in Melbourne.
6. Have a Beach Day
Melbourne’s stunning beaches offer a perfect setting for family relaxation. St Kilda Beach, in particular, is a favorite spot for families with its sandy shores and adjacent playgrounds. When spending a day outdoors in Melbourne, follow some basic family health and safety practices such as keeping properly hydrated and wearing sunscreen – Melbourne can get very hot in summer!
7. Attend the Football
Immerse yourself in the local culture by getting involved in a Melbournian’s favorite pastime – the AFL! Australian Rules football is the nation’s #1 sport, and Melbourne is the home of it. Catch a game at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and enjoy a hot meat pie while barracking for your chosen team!
8. Visit Cafes and Restaurants
Melbourne is famous for its incredible coffee! So no visit to Melbourne would be complete without a visit to a local cafe. The city has several Instagram-worthy cafes and restaurants, but to get a full sense of the city’s eclectic vibe, try The Little Social on Melbourne’s famous Hosier Lane – this landmark laneway boasts colorful street art and installations that are always changing. You may even spot a Banksy piece!
9. Ride the City Circle Tram
Melbourne’s free tourist tram is one of the best ways to take in the city and all of its landmark sites. The city’s tram network dates back to 1884 and remains one of the favorite modes of transport for locals. They are fast, efficient and prove to be a memorable experience for all ages! Just hop on and jump off as you please.
10. Attend a comedy show
Melbourne is home to the Melbourne Comedy Festival and is renowned for its live entertainment scene. There are several bars, clubs and theatres that host comedy nights and performances from up and coming artists. For a fun night out (and a lot of belly laughs!) head to The Comic’s Lounge for great food & drinks alongside a great comedy variety.
Melbourne offers a diverse range of activities and experiences that cater to various interests and ages. There are endless things to do, see and eat in this incredible city. No matter what direction you head, you will find something to keep yourself entertained in Melbourne 2023. All the above activities can be done at your own pace, but if you prefer, you could organize a local private tour guide to provide you with a fun, jam-packed Melbourne itinerary for the duration of your stay.
