How to Plan a Trip to Melbourne
Often associated as Australia’s ‘European enclave’, this vibrant city is a multicultural metropolitan hub that’s fit for everyone. Melbourne is the capital of sports, coffee, culture and creativity, and it’s jam-packed with buzzing artistic laneways, frenetic football fans, trendy cafes, and arguably Australia’s most insane nightlife. Here’s How to Plan a Trip to Melbourne.
Located in the south of the sunburned country, Melbourne is the city where you can party for six days straight and experience four seasons in one day. But most importantly, it’s my hometown, and it’s also the city where Ellen Degeneres shot me in the face with one of her infamous sock guns.
Make the most of your time with this guide on how to spend 2 days in Melbourne, Australia.
8-Step Planning Checklist
Before you can take the full plunge, work your way through these eight simple steps. Whether you’re planning for the summer, spring, winter or autumn, planning a trip to Melbourne couldn’t be easier!
Follow this checklist to begin the adventure of a lifetime!
Step 1: Determine the Destination Country & Cities
Step 2: Decide on the Trip Duration
Step 3: Figure out When is the Best Time to Visit
Step 4: Create a Travel Budget
Step 5: Book Your Accommodation (preferably 3 to 4 months in advance)
Step 6: Research & Organise Transport & Activities
Step 7: Get Your Documents in Order (Visa, Passport & Travel Insurance)
Step 8: Nail the Process with this Packing List
So before we get to it, let’s get one thing straight. It’s pronounced Mel-burn, not Mel-bourne.
Best Time to Visit Melbourne
Melbourne is a year-round destination; it’s more popular in the warmer months. However, it can be visited in the colder months. The summertime (December to February) is the busiest, with scorching hot temperatures sure to knock you off your feet and skyrocketing prices coming along with it.
I’m not going to lie; the wintertime in Melbourne can be pretty brutal. Not like the pimp-slap-to-the-face type difficult, just your standard Arctic winds and torrential rain type-brutal. But as per usual, low-season comes with some of the best travel rates and prices, so it might be more fitted if you’re a foodie or an art junkie.
Language
As with the majority of states in Australia, English is the predominant language spoken. More than 300+ traditional Australian Aboriginal dialects and languages are spoken throughout the mainland and islands. In some respective communities, there are also several Asian languages spoken.
Best Things to Do in Melbourne
If you want to plan a trip to Melbourne, you might feel overwhelmed with everything on offer. As with any big city, there’s a lot to do. So, here’s a breakdown of the best things to do in Melbourne, Australia.
Federation Square
Located directly opposite the domed Edwardian-style Flinders Street Railway Station is Federation Square. This contemporary building is a significant public space that hosts live music events, pop-up exhibitions and concerts, and various cafes, restaurants, bars and shops.
Close by is the Melbourne Skydeck, where you can view Melbourne’s breathtaking city views as you ride the fasted elevator in the Southern Hemisphere. If you want to escape the crowds, go down the stairs from Flinders Street Station and head down to the river. Many outdoor bars and restaurants also offer striking views with the city skyline as a backdrop.
The Arts Centre
Towering over the iconic Performing Arts Centre is an Eiffel Tower-style structure with a 162-meter spire. It’s home to ballet, opera, and theatre and hosts a series of outdoor concerts during the summer.
National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
This is one of my favourite things about living in Melbourne. There’s so much to see, and sometimes, you can do it without spending a single cent.
The NGV is one of the best things to do for free in Melbourne if you’re into art.
The National Gallery of Victoria hosts an Australian art collection and various international artists such as Picasso, Monet and many more.
During the summer, the NGV also hosts a series of night shows with drinks, light shows, DJs and more (for a small fee).
Queen Victoria Market
As the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere, the Queen Victoria Market is a significant landmark for Melbourne.
International foods, art, clothing and other goods are being sold all under a Victorian-era building. If you’re a sweet freak, head to Taki’s Balls for some of the best Greek doughnuts goin’ around! Prepare yourself for heaven in the form of a ball.
Prahran Market
Known as the food lovers’ market, the Prahran Market offers various fresh fruits and vegetables, organic produce and more. Amongst the bustling food market is a variety of multiple cafes. There’s also a little Spanish shop with killer tequeños and empanadas. Other popular markets include the Fitzroy Market, the Rose Street Market and the Camberwell Market, where you can score a good find.
Melbourne Street Art
Since the 1990s, street artists have bought character to Melbourne’s laneways with eye-catching street art, from detailed murals to tags and stencils. Melbourne is threaded with cobblestone laneways, and there’s almost always something new to see. The city’s landmark laneway is Hosier Lane, where every inch of it is decked out with street art.
Within the CBD, there’s also Strachan Lane, Drewery Lane, Duckboard Place, AC/DC Lane, Guildford Lane, Presgrave Place, Union Lane, Tattersalls Lane and Blender Lane. If you’re looking for something different, head down to one of your favourite parts of Melbourne, Chapel Street, and check out Artist’s Lane.
Royal Botanic Gardens
If you’re looking for a slice of nature amongst the hustle and bustle of Melbourne, look no further than the Royal Botanic Gardens. With over 10,000 native and exotic plant species spread over 89 acres, this lush space is perfect for rest and recharge.
During the summertime, the Royal Botanic Gardens hosts a series of movie nights featuring internationally renowned films. Pricing is around $ 19.00 AUD. It’s the perfect place for a picnic. Tip: bring a picnic rug, snacks, and an alcoholic beverage. Other green spaces within easy access to the CBD include Albert Park, St Kilda Botanical Gardens, Carlton Gardens and Flagstaff Gardens.
Shrine of Remembrance
Not far from the NGV is the World War I shrine and memorial complex, the Shrine of Remembrance.
It’s a memorial to all the Aussies that served their country, and the Shrine was designed and built by WWI veterans. Surrounded by green grass, it makes a picturesque spot to chill out on the grass and enjoy classic-style architecture.
State Library Victoria
Famous for its central dome with an octagonal shape, dark wood furniture, and book-lined Harry Potter-esque walls, the State Library of Victoria has much history.
This 19th-century building is also a cultural hub and comes to life at night, with locals gathering out the front conversing and singing amongst the State Library’s striking architecture.
Best Beaches in Melbourne
Australia has some of the finest beaches in the world, and some are located only a few kilometres away. Escape the hype of the city and make your way to the beach!
St Kilda Beach
Located close to the CBD, St Kilda is a popular beachside area with a pier, perfect for walking, exercising, sunbathing and even water sports. There’s kite surfing, paddle-boarding, cyclists and runners bracing the palm-covered stretch.
Hot tip: If you walk to the end of St Kilda pier, you can see little penguins flopping around in and out of the water. If you get your timing right, there’s also the opportunity to watch whales and dolphins.
Aspendale Beach
Aspendale Beach is quieter than the famous Mordialloc Beach, and the fine white sand and crystal clear waters provide a lot of space for everyone. This is one of my all-time favourite beaches for the summertime!
Brighton Beach
Brighton Beach is an ideal spot for swimmers and sunbathers, with a colourful array of iconic Victorian bathing boxes and the city skyline as a unique backdrop.
Plenty of gourmet food stores and up-market retailers are also dotted throughout the Brighton area.
Best Shopping in Melbourne
Melbourne is chockfull of quirky boutiques, trendy stores and unique brands. If you’re a shopaholic, don't miss the following places.
The Emporium
Melbourne Central
Chadstone Shopping Centre
Bourke Street Mall
DFO South Wharf
Best Vintage Shops in Melbourne
Let’s do the time warp!
Melbourne is a literal vintage lover’s galore, with almost every suburb brimming with some of the best vintage stores. Melbourne is the answer to your problems! Pop your pimp jacket on, a pair of Levi’s jeans, or that oversized 80s jacket; it’s time to discover some of the best finds to complete your outfit. You can read all about Melbourne’s Best Vintage Stores.
Best Nightlife in Melbourne
This one is perfect for all you late-night revellers and mischief-makers out there. Melbourne is home to Australia’s most hectic nightlife. It’s the city where you can party for six days straight, and there’s always something going on. With an insane techno scene to hip-hop and rap events, there is something to tickle everyone’s pickle... Here are some of my favourite clubs and bars.
Revolver Upstairs, Prahran
OneSixOne, Prahran
Section 8, CBD
Tyranny of Distance, Prahran
Morris Jones, Prahran
Somewhere Bar, Prahran
Death or Glory, Prahran
Whitehart Bar, CBD
Madame Brussels, CBD
Naked for Satan, Fitzroy
Side note: The majority listed above are located in Prahran. It’s no accident. I’m biased and love this area. Strictly chaps laps.
Sports in Melbourne
As the sports capital of Australia, Melbourne is home to some seriously fierce sporting rivalries. There’s something special about that high-energy atmosphere where the fans are going absolutely mental. I am a dedicated Carlton Blues supporter... C’mon, the blues!
If you’re a sports fanatic, watch a classic AFL footy game or a cricket match at the impressive MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground). There’s also the Rod Laver Arena, Docklands Stadium, Hisense Arena and the Olympic Park.
Best Activities in Melbourne
If you’re searching for the top-rated attractions in Melbourne, look no further. Here is the best of what Victoria’s capital city has to offer.
Best Day Trips from Melbourne
Take a break from the commotion of cosmopolitan Melbourne and venture out for a day trip. There’s plenty to be seen!
For the full scoop, check out this in-depth guide on the 19 Best Day Trips from Melbourne, Australia.
Great Ocean Road
Whether it’s the feeling of freedom or the unprecedented chaos of a road trip, Victoria’s Great Ocean Road should be on your bucket list.
Stretching over 250km, the Great Ocean Road winds around the southwest coast of Victoria, offering diverse landscapes with staggering cliffs, a raging surf, ancient volcanoes, windswept beaches, bountiful native wildlife and lush rainforests.
This is one of the most outstanding coastal drives Australia has on offer. Some of my fondest memories are driving down the Great Ocean Road with the tunes blasting, demolishing the never-ending supply of snacks, the sun beaming, and the ocean breeze matting up my bird’s nest (hair).
If you’re a chocoholic, you won’t want to miss the Chocolate Factory in Torquay. I am talking literal chocolate heaven, people. For more information, hot spots, and hidden gems, read all about my road trip on the Great Ocean Road.
Yarra Valley
With hot air balloons and sky diving, the Yarra Valley has enough up its sleeve to fulfil just about everyone’s desires. The area is packed with incredible award-winning vineyards and wineries and hosts many popular wine tours too. There’s an influx of spas, private estates, restaurants and places to stay if you want more of a premium experience.
Mornington Peninsula
As one of my favourite escapes from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula boasts many stunning coastlines and quaint seaside towns. Cycling, surfing, golf, wineries, and much more are to be enjoyed.
One of my favourite things to do is visit the Peninsula Hot Springs, where there’s a variety of outdoor pools and day spa services. Check out this blog post on the Best Things to do in the Mornington Peninsula.
Phillip Island
Just a few hours from Melbourne, Phillip Island has a wildlife park with free-roaming animals and a hot spot for classic Aussie beaches. There’s also a koala sanctuary and conservation centre. One of the major attractions of Phillip Island is the nightly penguin parade on Summerland Beach, which is when thousands of penguins make their way from the ocean to their nests.
The Grampians
One of Victoria’s most prominent series of sprawling sandstone ridges, or The Grampians, brims year-round with panoramic scenes that look straight out of an adventure book. With native wildlife roaming around the plethora of hanging cliff faces, soaring peaks, plunging valleys and thunderous waterfalls, The Grampians epitomises a visual feast.
Amidst the many hiking and bushwalking opportunities, there’s also rock climbing, fishing, and canoeing to hit the sweet spot for all you adventure junkies. Apart from mesmerising yourself with the jagged towers of ancient stone that make up The Grampians, there’s also the opportunity to learn about the landscape’s history at the aboriginal rock art and culture centre in Brambuk. Read all about The Grampians in this post.
What to Eat in Melbourne
Melbourne is Australia’s food capital. So if food is your thing, I can assure you that Melbourne will not disappoint. There’s a wealth of trendy cafes, bistros and restaurants to tempt your taste buds.
Beer-wise, this city has a lot on offer. Test out a VB, Fosters, Furphy or a Melbourne Bitter.
Not only is the coffee culture embedded deep within every nick and corner of Melbourne, but it’s also one of the best in the world. If you’ve travelled to a country like Spain or Greece, you know exactly what I’m talking about…
Why do Melbournians love a good cafe? No idea.
Grab yourself a nice book, a snack buddy, or whatever tickles ya fancy, and explore the endless options on offer. Listed below, you have some of my all-time favourite restaurants and cafes:
Massive Wieners, Prahran (order the Disco fries)
Colonel Tan’s, Prahran
Vegie Bar, Fitzroy
Huxtaburger, Prahran
Chapelli’s, Prahran
SpudBar, South Yarra
Koko Black, CBD (chocoholics, this one’s for you)
Mr Miyagi, Windsor
Chinatown, CBD
Brunch:
Tusk Cafe and Bar, Prahran
Two Birds One Stone, South Yarra
Abacus Bar & Kitchen, Prahran
Henry and The Fox, CBD
The Kettle Black, South Melbourne
Top Paddock, Richmond
Merchant’s Guild, Bentleigh East
Where to Stay in Melbourne
Melbourne has an abundance of charming neighbourhoods and sprightly districts that bring their own character to the city. Victoria’s capital city is diverse, with plenty to dabble in. Here's everything you need to know about where to stay in Melbourne.
Melbourne CBD
The CBD (Central Business District) is the beating heart of Melbourne’s city life. Boasting perfectly-manicured gardens, trendy cafes and shopping boutiques, there is plenty to see and do. Stroll through the old arcades, taste the flavours of the first-class eateries and hit the high-end shopping streets. The CBD is one of the best places to stay in Melbourne, especially if you’re looking for various experiences.
The CBD has easy access to major attractions, shopping areas, and nightlife, given its central location. Offering a mix of luxury hotels, budget-friendly accommodations and serviced apartments, the CBD is an excellent choice for your first time planning a trip to Melbourne.
South Yarra
Hugging Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River, South Yarra is more of an upmarket area that boasts art deco apartments and well-preserved mansions. You’ll find everything from ritzy boutiques and fine-dining options to elegant cocktail bars and endless shopping opportunities. With the Royal Botanic Gardens tucked at the northern end, South Yarra offers the chance to escape the city buzz.
This trendy inner-city suburb is well-known for its high-fashion boutiques, sprawling shopping streets (Chapel Street and Toorak Road) and diverse dining scene.
Windsor/Prahran
Primarily defined by the famous strip of Chapel Street, these two areas were once known as the bohemian capital of Melbourne. By day and night, Prahran and Windsor are bustling, and it has an undeniable charm.
With established markets, these two areas are also home to some of Melbourne’s best underground nightclubs, live music events, vintage shops, unique street art displays, and stylish eateries. Windsor and Prahran are the perfect neighbourhoods for backpackers, couples and the younger crowd.
St Kilda
Located 6 km southeast of the CBD, St Kilda is a beachside suburb known for its rowdy backpacker crowd. The prominent Luna Park, the historic sea baths and grand mansions topped off with an Esplanade where windsurfers and yachts can be seen on the bay. The nightlife is filled with lively pubs, nightclubs and music venues, making it the perfect fit for all you late-night revellers. St Kilda presents a panoply of lodging options, from boutique hotels and guesthouses to hostels and apartments.
Carlton
Home to the infamous Lygon Street Italian precinct, Carlton is well-known for its cafe and restaurant scene. Situated in the north of the CBD, this gem boasts Victorian-era buildings, authentic Italia restaurants and unique shops. Carlton offers a fusion of boutique hotels, guesthouses and locally-rented apartments. Carlton has leafy streets and open gardens, perfect for families and couples. It also hits Melbourne’sMelbourne'seam (in my opinion), the Blues!
Fitzroy
Known amongst locals as the ‘alternative’ side of Melbourne, Fitzroy has many vintage stores, eccentric boutiques, second-hand book shops, and much more to tickle your pickle. If it’s different, you’ll find it here. Brunswick Street is jam-packed with vegan and vegetarian cafes and restaurants dominating the area, so if you’re plant-based, this is one of your best options.
This inner-city neighbourhood is well-known for its lively culture and vibrant arts scene, with trendy cafes and unique finds aplenty. There are various live musThere'sts, street art, and much more.
Fitzroy has a range of boutique accommodations and serviced apartments, making it a popular choice for many. This is one of the best places to stay in Melbourne for the younger crowd, creative types and families.
Williamstown
Located on the waterfront, the area boasts eclectic, lush, open green spaces and a new cafe or restaurant popping up every weekend. As it’s relatively easy to get to the CBD, Williamstown is perfect for families and couples.
Docklands
The Docklands is a bustling area filled with towering apartment buildings and office complexes. You'll find plenty of popular brand names and scenic waterfront dining options here. Sports fans will appreciate its close proximity to the Etihad Stadium. This modern district, situated just west of the CBD, features impressive architecture and stunning views of the waterfront precinct.
The Docklands is famous for its contemporary architecture, marina and entertainment venues. This area in Melbourne presents upscale hotels and serviced apartments, many of which boast water views. The Docklands is well-connected to the city centre by tram, making it a feasible option for those interested in public transport around the city.
Southbank
Located on the southern bank of the Yarra River, Southbank is well-known for its al fresco fine dining experiences on the ever-so-popular promenade.
As one of Melbourne’s more sophisticated ends, there are teeming shopping opportunities on offer. Southbank is also home to some of Melbourne’s premier cultural venues, such as the Crown Casino Complex, the Arts Centre and the National Gallery of Victoria.
Southbank hosts a massive haul of hotels, luxury properties and apartments that offer stunning city views.
Richmond
Richmond is a multicultural hub that’s packed with people from all over the globe. It’s typically perceived as a little rough around the edges. Still, the area is home to charming historic buildings that have been transformed into hip bars, famous music venues and, of course, classic Aussie pubs.
Richmond is situated just east of the CBD and is well-known for its animated shopping and dining scene. With its proximity to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and the Melbourne Sports Precinct, this is one of the best places to stay in Melbourne for sports fanatics.
Brunswick
With a more laid-back vibe, Brunswick is home to many upbeat pubs, live music venues and beer gardens. Sydney Road hosts an array of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine options, trendy cafes and hip bars. Brunswick is known as a ‘hipster haven’, making it popular amongst the younger crowds.
Top Hotels in Melbourne, Australia:
How to Get Around Melbourne
Getting around Melbourne is quick, convenient and relatively affordable. With a well-connected public transportation system that spans the city centre and surrounding suburbs, there are many ways to travel.
The Victorian capital’s transport network helps to keep the city connected. Better yet, it’s affordable and runs frequently. Check out my guide on the cost of living in Melbourne to find out about transport, groceries, entertainment, housing and more.
Here's everything you need to know about how to get around Melbourne.
Trains, Trams, Buses & City Circle Tram
Melbourne has an extensive train and bus network covering the city and suburbs. Metro Trains run the train system, and you can plan your journey on the PTV (Public Transport Victoria) app. Melbourne is also home to the largest tram network in the world, with trams operating through the CBD and some suburbs.
In order to use the trains, trams and buses in Melbourne, you’ll need a Myki card. You can buy a card and top up the balance at train stations, convenience stores and retailers. Don’t forget to tap on and tap off when using public transport. Otherwise, you might get fined by PTOs (Public Transport Officers).
Additionally, Melbourne offers a free tram service called the City Circle Tram. If you plan a trip to Melbourne, you can jump aboard this service in the CBD. This is a convenient and pocket-friendly way of getting around central Melbourne. Plus, you’ll learn a little about the city's history through the onboard commentary.
Walking & Bike Share
Melbourne’s inner city is pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for exploring on foot. The CBD and a handful of the inner suburbs are best explored on foot, and you’ll be able to discover hidden laneways and soak up the vibrant ambience.
If you’re not really into public transport, there’s no hassle; Melbourne, like most major cities worldwide, has a tremendous bike-sharing system. Download the Melbourne Bike Share app to pedal your life away. A day pass costs only $3.00AUD. You can hire bicycles from some stations that are scattered throughout the city. You only need to purchase a subscription or single-use pass from the docking station. Don’t forget to return the bike to the station when you’re finished! It sounds silly, but some of these bikes have ended up on the nearby beaches. Random.
Taxis and Ridesharing
Taxis are available throughout Melbourne, and you can book them through the local apps, hail them on the street or find them at designated taxi ranks. If you’re a wallet-conscious traveller, opt for ride-hailing services like Uber and Didi.
Car or Motorbike Rental
Renting a car is one of the best ways to get around Melbourne, especially if you plan on exploring the outer suburbs and surrounding regions. If you want to visit areas like the Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island or the Grampians, hiring a car is a must. Many rental companies are available in Melbourne, and you can rent a car at the airport. Keep in mind that parking in the CBD is notoriously expensive. Melbourne's CBD can experience intense traffic congestion during peak hours, so it might be best to plan your travel accordingly or consider public transportation.
Melbourne Airport
If you’re planning to visit Melbourne, you’ll most likely arrive at Tullamarine Airport, located about 23 km from the city centre. Also known as Melbourne Airport, this is Australia’s second-busiest airport and is home to four different terminals. You’ll find facilities and services like shopping, dining, currency exchange, ATMs, lounges and free wifi. Here’s everything you need to know about how to get to/from Melbourne Airport:
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Didi are available through the apps and can be found at designated ranks outside each terminal. A standard taxi fare can cost up to $60 - 70, so it may not be worth it unless you travel in a group.
SkyBus: If you plan a trip to Melbourne, the SkyBus is one of the best ways to get to the city centre. This express bus service between the airport stops at various destinations like Southbank, St Kilda and some western suburbs. It costs $19.00 AUD one-way or $36.00 AUD for a round-trip.
Melbourne Travel Tips
Cook at your accommodation. Eating out in Melbourne is certainly not cheap. The most efficient way to reduce your food expenditure is to prepare and cook as many meals as possible in your hostel/hotel/Airbnb/etc.
Bring a reusable water bottle. The water in Melbourne is clear and perfectly safe to drink. Not only will it impact your wallet, but it’ll also make an even more significant impact on the environment. You’d also be doing our oceans and planet a huge favour.
Make use of the free city circle tram. Melbourne’s public transport system is one of the best but not cheap. Take advantage of the free city circle tram!
Booking tours through your hostel or hotel will score discounted rates and save you heaps of cashola.
Accommodation in Melbourne can be pretty pricey if you’re on a budget, but luckily, Couchsurfing is the all the rave here. If you’ve no idea what that even is, check out this post on some of my best Budget Travel Hacks here to learn all the tricks and tips.
Get a phone plan. Go for either Telstra or Vodafone. You can get a SIM Card for around $30-40, which should last up to a month.
Compared to Europe, the booze in Melbourne sits at a pretty hefty price. If you want the whole Aussie bogan experience, buy a goon bag (boxed wine), peg it to a washing line (clothes hanger) and demolish that sh*t like there’s no tomorrow. Do it for the thrill, right?!
If you’re hitting up the movie nights in the Royal Botanic Gardens, let alone travelling anywhere at night, bring a jacket because it can get pretty damn chilly at night. Say adios to your nipples if you do not come prepared.
If you’re using public transport, get a Myki pass. Ensure you always have a valid ID because those PTOs (Public Transport Officers) are downright ruthless. I’ve ended up with multiple $200 fines, and trust me; you don’t want to be dealing with one of these jerks.
There’s a Myki Explorer Pack, which includes one day of unlimited travel anywhere on the PTV system and special discounts on other attractions.
If you’re visiting during the summer, make sure you deck yourself in plenty of sunscreen. The Aussie sun is harsh and you don’t want to end up looking like a freshly cooked lobster.
Eat away from the main streets like Bourke Street, the Docklands, etc., to enjoy great food for less the price!
Hotel prices and flights are much more expensive during the main school holidays (Easter, Christmas and New Year). This also applies to major events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix. So if it’s feasible, avoid booking your trip during these times.
Whether you’re a fan of exploring unique street art, trendy eateries, local live music or off-the-radar adventure, I assure you that these spots will not disappoint. For the full scoop, check out The Ultimate Guide to Melbourne.
Be sure to add Melbourne as a destination to your Travel Bucket List. This comprehensive guide on How to Plan a Trip to Melbourne can kick the hassle out of your next getaway. So, what are you waiting for?