Things to do in Melbourne: must-sees and where to stay
Contents
In short: Melbourne is discovered through its street-art laneways, its cafés and its neighbourhoods. Start at Flinders Street Station and Federation Square, browse the Queen Victoria Market, relax in the Royal Botanic Gardens, head to St Kilda, and keep time for the Great Ocean Road or Phillip Island. Seasons are reversed: summer runs from December to February.
Laneways and street art
The centre is crisscrossed by laneways lined with cafés and murals. Hosier Lane is the most famous for its ever-changing street art; Degraves Street for its terraces and coffee, a Melbourne institution.
Flinders Street and Federation Square
Opposite the yellow façade of Flinders Street Station, Federation Square is the city’s great meeting place, with museums and events. The banks of the Yarra and Southbank are close by.
Queen Victoria Market
A big indoor and open-air market, the Queen Victoria Market gathers fresh produce, delis and food stalls. Its summer night markets are very lively.
The Royal Botanic Gardens
South of the Yarra, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer lawns, lakes and plants from around the world, perfect for a quiet break.
St Kilda
On the bay, St Kilda is Melbourne’s seaside district: beach, pier, Luna Park and a lively promenade. At dusk, you can sometimes spot little penguins near the pier.
Day trips from Melbourne
- The Great Ocean Road, its cliffs and the Twelve Apostles rocks: a long day, or better, two days.
- Phillip Island and its penguin parade, at sunset.
- The Yarra Valley, for its vineyards.
Getting around
- Trams criss-cross the city; a free zone covers the centre.
- From the airport, the SkyBus express reaches Southern Cross station in 20 to 25 minutes outside peak hours (up to 45 minutes at busy times).
- A rental car is handy for the Great Ocean Road (you drive on the left).
All our tips for the country: Travel in Australia.
Where to stay in Melbourne?
- City centre (CBD). Laneways, cafés and shops, inside the free tram zone. Ideal for: first visit.
- Southbank. On the Yarra, near the performing arts venues and museums. Ideal for: couples, culture.
- Fitzroy and Collingwood. Creative areas: street art, vintage shops, bars and restaurants. Ideal for: solo, nightlife.
- St Kilda. The beach, the pier and Luna Park, a few minutes away by tram. Ideal for: families, beach.
The areas and useful services are on our Melbourne page.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Melbourne?
Three days for the city, plus one or two days for the Great Ocean Road or Phillip Island.
Do I need a visa for Australia?
An electronic travel authorisation is required before departure. Check the option for your nationality on the Australian government's official website.
When should I visit Melbourne?
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are pleasant. The weather can change fast within a day: bring an extra layer.
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