Best Things To Do in Melbourne City
Planning a trip down under and not sure what the best things to do in Melbourne City are?
You’re in the right place.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying a little longer, the best things to do in Melbourne City blend culture, creativity, and coffee better than anywhere else in Australia. From buzzing laneways and iconic landmarks to world-class food and unexpected hidden gems, this guide will help you uncover the best things to do in Melbourne City.
This 2025 travel guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect Melbourne adventure – including must-see sights, top cafes, local tips, and a 4-day sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time.
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Contents
Table of Contents
Finding a Boutique Hotel at a Glance
To help you plan your trip to Melbourne, use this custom Google Map with all the top spots. Included are the main attractions, foodie spots, hidden gems, and nightlife picks mentioned in this guide, as well as many more of the best things to do in Melbourne City – from a local.
Save it to your phone for easily exploring the best things to do in Melbourne City on the go!
Best Things To Do in Melbourne City
Must-See Attractions in Melbourne City
Melbourne is a city that reveals itself slowly – but once you explore beyond the typical best things to do in Melbourne City, you’ll uncover a creative, multicultural, and effortlessly cool destination that rewards curiosity. From laneways packed with street art to historic arcades, world-class museums and buzzing riverside precincts, here are some of the best things to do in Melbourne City that you shouldn’t miss when exploring.
Federation Square
Right across from Flinders Street Station, “Fed Square” is Melbourne’s modern meeting point. It hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and public screenings, and is home to the Ian Potter Centre (NGV Australia) and ACMI. Even if you’re just passing through, it’s worth pausing here to admire one of the best things to do in Melbourne City.
State Library of Victoria
Even if you’re not a book lover, the State Library is still one of the best things to do in Melbourne City for its beautiful architecture and historic reading rooms. The La Trobe Reading Room, with its vast domed ceiling, is particularly impressive. It’s free to enter and also houses exhibitions and chess boards, which make for some of the best things to do in Melbourne City on a rainy afternoon.
Flinders Street Station
The city’s most iconic building and easily one of the best things to do in Melbourne City, this heritage-listed train station is the oldest in Australia. Its dome and clocks are postcard staples – and make a great photo backdrop. Tip: Walk across to St Paul’s Cathedral for another striking architectural contrast.
Hosier Lane
Just across from Federation Square, this famous laneway is a living gallery of street art. Murals here change regularly, so no two visits are ever the same. Get your camera ready – but don’t forget to explore nearby laneways like ACDC Lane and Centre Place too, as these are one of the best things to do in Melbourne City.
Royal Botanic Gardens
A tranquil escape just a short walk from the CBD, these lush gardens span over 90 acres and are perfect for a picnic, a peaceful stroll, or a scenic lap around “The Tan”. You can also join an Aboriginal Heritage Walk, which is one of the best cultural things to do in Melbourne City.
National Gallery of Victoria (NGV International)
Melbourne’s premier art gallery houses both Australian and international works, and best of all – it’s free to enter. From the iconic water wall entrance to major temporary exhibitions, the NGV is one of the best cultural things to do in Melbourne City.
Queen Victoria Market
Open since 1878, this massive open-air market is beloved by both local and visiting foodies as one of the best things to do in Melbourne City. Come for the fresh produce, deli goods, handmade souvenirs, or to just soak up the lively atmosphere. Closed Mondays and Wednesdays, so plan ahead.
Southbank & the Yarra River
Follow the Yarra River past restaurants, bars, and public art installations on this popular walking route. Southbank is a great place to stop for lunch, take a river cruise, or simply enjoy the views of the city skyline from the pedestrian bridges.
2-Day Melbourne City Itinerary
Planning a weekend escape to Melbourne? Two days is the perfect amount of time to soak up the city’s vibrant energy, sample its famous coffee, and check out some of its most iconic sights. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this itinerary covers the best things to do in Melbourne City – from cultural highlights and laneway gems to local food spots and riverfront views.
Day 1: Iconic Sights and Laneway Culture
Morning
- Start at Federation Square and explore Flinders Street Station
- Wander through the vibrant Hosier Lane and surrounding laneways (ACDC Lane, Centre Place)
- Coffee break at one of the nearby cafés (e.g. Patricia Coffee Brewers)
Afternoon
- Head to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV International) for art and culture
- Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens for a relaxing nature escape
- Optional: Join an Aboriginal Heritage Walk in the gardens
Evening
- Dinner and drinks at Southbank along the Yarra River
- Optional: Catch a show at the Melbourne Arts Centre or enjoy rooftop cocktails nearby
Day 2: Markets, History and Hidden Gems
Morning
- Explore Queen Victoria Market for breakfast and shopping
- Visit the State Library of Victoria, admire the architecture, and maybe catch an exhibition
Afternoon
- Discover some hidden gems – such as the Capitol Theatre, Manchester Unity Building, or Koorie Heritage Trust
- Wander through Chinatown and grab a casual lunch
Evening
- Experience Melbourne’s nightlife – rooftop bars like Rooftop Bar at Curtin House or the laneway vibe at The Quarter
- Late-night eats at Chin Chin or Hakata Gensuke ramen
Best Food and Drinks in Melbourne City
Melbourne is a foodie’s paradise – and nowhere is that more obvious than in the heart of the city. From world-class coffee and laneway brunch spots to quick bites and fancy dinners, Melbourne City offers something for every craving and budget. Below are a few standout recommendations across different categories to help you experience the city’s culinary scene, perhaps the best thing to do in Melbourne City.
Best Coffee
Patricia Coffee Brewers
Little Bourke St
A beloved hole-in-the-wall standing spot known for top-tier espresso and minimalist vibes. Locals line up here for a reason.
Market Lane Coffee
Queen Victoria Market or Collins St
A specialty roaster with a focus on traceable, single-origin beans – plus they offer free tastings if you’re curious!
Best Brunch Spots
Hardware Société
Hardware St
French-inspired brunch with beautifully plated dishes and cozy vibes. Their baked eggs are iconic.
Higher Ground
Little Bourke St
Located in a stunning converted warehouse with high ceilings and refined café fare. Expect a short wait – but it’s worth it.
Best Cheap Eats
Shanghai Street
Little Bourke St
A no-frills favourite for dumplings and handmade noodles. Their xiao long bao and pan-fried pork buns are crowd-pleasers, and the prices are super reasonable. Expect a line – but it moves fast!
Hakata Gensuke Ramen
Russell St
Authentic tonkotsu ramen with a cult following. You order by filling out a preferences sheet – fun and delicious!
Dinner Favourites
Tipo 00
Little Bourke St
An intimate Italian restaurant with handmade pasta and a warm, welcoming feel. Booking ahead is a must.
Chin Chin
Flinders Ln
A trendy, high-energy spot for modern Thai fusion. Expect bold flavours and a bustling vibe – perfect for a fun night out.
Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Spots
The Grain Store
Flinders Ln
A warm, rustic café with a seasonal, produce-driven menu and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
Sister of Soul
Swanston St
Their original St Kilda location is iconic, but they’ve recently opened a CBD outpost serving up hearty, globally inspired vegetarian and vegan fare.
Sweet Treats and Desserts
Brunetti Classico
Lygon St or Flinders Ln
A Melbourne institution for all things Italian and sweet. The Flinders Lane location is perfect for a post-dinner dessert.
Lune Croissanterie
Collins St or Rose St
These cult-status croissants live up to the hype. The CBD location makes it easy to grab a flaky pain au chocolat or almond croissant on the go – just get there early if you want to avoid the queue.
Hidden Gems in Melbourne City
While Melbourne’s iconic laneways and attractions draw the crowds (and for good reason), there’s something truly special about wandering slightly off the main tourist path. Whether it’s a peaceful garden tucked behind a tram stop or a quirky museum that sparks your curiosity, the city is full of low-key local favourites waiting to be discovered. Here are a few of my favourite hidden things to do in Melbourne City.
Carlton Gardens and Melbourne Museum
Just a short stroll from the city buzz, the Carlton Gardens offer a peaceful, green escape with tree-lined paths, ornamental lakes, and a stunning view of the Royal Exhibition Building. It’s the perfect spot to recharge with a picnic under the trees after a morning of exploring the best things to do in Melbourne City.
Tucked within the gardens, the Melbourne Museum is an often-overlooked cultural highlight. It’s home to fascinating exhibits on natural history, Indigenous culture, and Victoria’s history – and it’s surprisingly easy to spend a whole afternoon exploring inside. Don’t miss the living forest gallery or the IMAX theatre for one of the best things to do in Melbourne City on a rainy day!
Rose Street Artists' Market
Tucked behind Brunswick Street in the heart of Fitzroy, the Rose Street Artists’ Market is a weekend must for lovers of art, design, and handmade treasures.
You’ll find everything from ceramics and prints to artisan skincare and one-of-a-kind jewellery, all sold directly by local creatives. It’s a great place to support small businesses, chat with the makers, and pick up a truly unique Melbourne souvenir.
If you’re feeling peckish after browsing, there are heaps of great cafés just around the corner.
Catch a Game at the MCG or AAMI Park
Melbourne isn’t called the sporting capital of Australia for nothing!
While most tourists focus on sightseeing and laneways, locals know that catching a footy match (AFL) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is one of the best ways to experience the city’s spirit.
The atmosphere is electric – especially during the AFL season – and even if you don’t know the rules, it’s a fun and uniquely thing to do in Melbourne City.
Bonus: it’s walkable or just a short tram ride from the CBD.
Koorie Heritage Trust
Tucked inside Federation Square, the Koorie Heritage Trust is a cultural treasure many tourists miss from their list of best things to do in Melbourne City.
This not-for-profit centre showcases the art, history, and stories of the Aboriginal peoples of south-eastern Australia, with rotating exhibitions, a permanent collection, and a shop featuring handcrafted items by Indigenous artists.
It’s a powerful way to connect with the deep cultural roots of the land you’re exploring, and an essential stop for those wanting a more thoughtful, rounded experience of Melbourne.
Moonlight Cinema
Looking for the best thing to do in Melbourne City on a warm summer evening?
The Moonlight Cinema is an open-air cinema set within the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, just a short walk from the city.
From cult classics to the latest blockbusters, you can kick back on a picnic rug or beanbag under the stars with snacks, drinks, and city skyline views in the background.
It’s a relaxed, magical experience – and locals would easily place it on their list of best things to do in Melbourne City.
Local Tips for Visiting Melbourne
Melbourne is an easy city to explore – but here are a few local quirks and practical tips that can make your trip even smoother. Here are some helpful things to know before you visit.
Use the Free Tram Zone
The city has a Free Tram Zone that covers most of the CBD and Docklands. You don’t need a ticket within this area – just hop on and off as you like. Plus, riding a tram is one of the best things to do in Melbourne City!
If you’re heading further out (like Fitzroy or St Kilda), you’ll need a Myki card, which you can buy at train stations, 7-Elevens, and some supermarkets.
Melbourne is a grid, but the laneways are the fun part
The CBD is laid out in a neat grid, so it’s easy to navigate – but don’t miss the laneways!
Some of the city’s best cafés, bars, and street art are hidden down these narrow alleys. Exploring these areas is one of the best things to do in Melbourne City.
Skip the chains - go independent
Melbourne thrives on independent cafés, restaurants, and boutiques – and that’s where you’ll find some of the best hidden things to do in Melbourne City.
Skip the big-name chains and try a local brunch spot, artisan bookstore, or boutique fashion store instead.
The quality is usually better, and you’ll be supporting the creative energy that makes Melbourne what it is.
Pack for four seasons in one day
The Melbourne cliché is true: you can experience sun, wind, rain, and chill all within the same afternoon.
Even in summer, bring a light jacket or umbrella – just in case.
Plan around events
Melbourne hosts huge events year-round – like the Australian Open (January), Formula 1 Grand Prix (March), and Melbourne International Comedy Festival (March/April).
Attending one of these events is often one of the best things to do in Melbourne City. But, if you’re visiting during one of these, expect higher accommodation prices and book in advance.
Bonus Tip: Follow 'What's On Melbourne' for free events and pop-ups
There’s always something happening in Melbourne – from outdoor art installations and pop-up food stalls to community festivals and twilight markets.
To stay in the loop, check out What’s On Melbourne or follow @cityofmelbourne on Instagram.
It’s a great way to find unique local events that you might not see on the typical list of best things to do in Melbourne City.
Best Day Trips from Melbourne
If you have a bit more time in your itinerary, one of the best things to do from Melbourne City is take a day trip beyond the city limits. From coastal drives to wine country and relaxing hot springs, these three day trips are all within easy reach and well worth the journey.
Mornington Peninsula
If you’re after a day of relaxation, the Mornington Peninsula is an easy escape just 90 minutes from Melbourne.
You can soak in the Peninsula Hot Springs, hike along scenic coastal trails, visit wineries and farm gates, or chill at one of the area’s peaceful beaches.
It’s a great all-rounder thing to do in Melbourne – perfect for couples, solo travellers, or even a quiet group day out.
Yarra Valley
Just over an hour’s drive from the city, the Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine regions.
Known for its cool-climate wines (especially Chardonnay and Pinot Noir), it’s a dreamy spot for wine tasting, scenic drives, and long lunches at vineyard restaurants.
If you’re not into wine, there are also craft breweries, distilleries, chocolate shops, and even a wildlife sanctuary.
You can self-drive or join a small group wine tour from Melbourne City.
Great Ocean Road
This is one of the best things to do in Australia, let alone in Melbourne – and for good reason.
The Great Ocean Road winds along dramatic cliffs and surf beaches, through charming coastal towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, all the way up to the legendary Twelve Apostles rock formations.
It’s a long day if done as a return trip from Melbourne City (around 10-12 hours total), but you’ll be rewarded with epic scenery the whole way.
For a more relaxed pace, consider making it an overnight trip.
FAQ
Is two days in Melbourne enough?
Yes – two days in Melbourne is just enough to experience the best things to do in Melbourne City without feeling too rushed. You can explore iconic sights like Federation Square, the laneways, and the Botanic Gardens on day one, then dive into local food, culture, and hidden gems on day two.
If you want to venture out to places like the Great Ocean Road or Yarra Valley, adding a third day is ideal for exploring even more of the best things to do from Melbourne City.
Can you walk around Melbourne City?
Absolutely! Melbourne City is very walkable, with a flat, grid-style layout that’s easy to navigate on foot. Most major attractions – like Flinders Street Station, the NGV, and Queen Victoria Market – are within 15-20 minutes of each other. Plus, some of the best things to do in Melbourne City are made to be explored on foot – especially the laneways.
What are the best free things to do in Melbourne?
Many of the best things to do in Melbourne City are free, including visiting the State Library of Victoria, exploring street art in Hosier Lane, relaxing in the Royal Botanic Gardens, or checking out exhibitions at the NGV and Koorie Heritage Trust. Even riding the trams in the CBD is free within the Free Tram Zone!
How do I get around Melbourne as a tourist?
Melbourne has an excellent public transport system. Trams are the easiest way to get around, especially in the Free Tram Zone in the CBD. To travel further, you’ll need a Myki card, which you can use on trains, buses and trams.
Rideshare apps and walking are also great options, especially in the city centre.
What's the best time to visit Melbourne?
The best things to do in Melbourne City can be explored year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring (September-November) or autumn (December-February), when the weather is mild and the city’s parks are especially beautiful.
Many of the best seasonal things to do in Melbourne City are best enjoyed in the scorching summer months. Summer (December-February) can be fun for festivals and outdoor events, but it’s also the busiest and most unpredictable weather-wise.
How can I experience Melbourne like a local?
To discover a local’s list of best things to do in Melbourne City, skip the chains and head for independent cafés, browse weekend markets like Rose Street Artists’ Market, explore Fitzroy and Collingwood’s creative streets, and keep an eye on What’s On Melbourne for pop-ups, free events, and other hidden things to do in Melbourne City.
And of course – order your coffee like a local (flat white, magic, or long black)!
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