Melbourne, the capital city of Victoria, Australia, is a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant culture, stunning landmarks, and diverse range of activities. With its beautiful architecture, thriving arts scene, and world-class dining options, Melbourne offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in exploring natural wonders, indulging in gourmet cuisine, or immersing yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage, Melbourne has it all.
Key Takeaways
- The Great Ocean Road, Twelve Apostles, and Royal Botanic Gardens are must-see landmarks in Melbourne.
- Attica, Chin Chin, and Vue de Monde are top restaurants to try in Melbourne.
- The Yarra Valley, Grampians, and Phillip Island are great vacation spots near Melbourne.
- The Melbourne Comedy Festival, Australian Open, and Melbourne International Film Festival offer exciting entertainment options.
- Aboriginal culture, National Gallery of Victoria, and Melbourne Museum provide insight into Melbourne’s rich culture.
Landmarks
The Great Ocean Road
One of the most iconic attractions in Melbourne is the Great Ocean Road, a scenic coastal drive that stretches for 243 kilometers along the southeastern coast of Australia. The road offers breathtaking views of the ocean and winds through picturesque towns and lush rainforests. Along the way, visitors can stop at popular attractions such as Bells Beach, known for its world-class surfing conditions, and the charming seaside town of Lorne.
The Twelve Apostles
Located along the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles are a collection of limestone stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean. These towering formations have become an iconic symbol of Australia and attract millions of visitors each year. Nearby attractions include Loch Ard Gorge, named after a shipwreck that occurred in 1878, and the Gibson Steps, which offer a unique perspective of the Twelve Apostles from the beach below.
The Royal Botanic Gardens
Situated in the heart of Melbourne, the Royal Botanic Gardens is a tranquil oasis that spans 94 acres and showcases an impressive collection of plants from around the world. Visitors can explore themed gardens such as the Australian Rainforest Walk and the Herb Garden, or simply relax on the lawns and enjoy a picnic. The gardens also host a variety of events throughout the year, including outdoor cinema screenings and live music performances.
Restaurants
Attica
Considered one of the best restaurants in Australia, Attica offers a unique dining experience that combines indigenous ingredients with modern techniques. Headed by chef Ben Shewry, the restaurant has received numerous accolades for its innovative menu, which features dishes such as “Potato Cooked in the Earth It Was Grown” and “Marron and Fermented Cabbage.” Attica’s commitment to sustainability and showcasing native Australian ingredients has earned it a reputation as a must-visit culinary destination.
Chin Chin
For those craving Southeast Asian flavors, Chin Chin is the place to go. This bustling restaurant in Melbourne’s CBD serves up vibrant dishes inspired by Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. From their famous crispy barramundi salad to their mouthwatering pad Thai, every dish at Chin Chin is bursting with flavor. The lively atmosphere and energetic staff make for an unforgettable dining experience.
Vue de Monde
Located on the 55th floor of the Rialto Tower, Vue de Monde offers diners breathtaking views of Melbourne’s skyline while enjoying a fine dining experience. Led by chef Shannon Bennett, the restaurant showcases modern Australian cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The tasting menu at Vue de Monde takes guests on a culinary journey, with dishes like “Roasted Kangaroo with Native Spices” and “Smoked Eel with Jerusalem Artichoke.”
Vacations
| Year | Number of vacation days | Average vacation length (days) | Most popular vacation destination |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 10 | 5 | Florida |
| 2019 | 12 | 6 | Hawaii |
| 2020 | 8 | 4 | California |
The Yarra Valley
Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is a picturesque wine region known for its vineyards, cellar doors, and gourmet food offerings. Visitors can spend their days exploring wineries and sampling award-winning wines, or indulge in a hot air balloon ride over the rolling hills. The Yarra Valley also offers a range of activities such as cycling, hiking, and visiting local farmers’ markets.
The Grampians
Located three hours west of Melbourne, the Grampians National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. The park is home to stunning mountain ranges, cascading waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife. Visitors can embark on hiking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints, rock climb on the sandstone cliffs, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature. The Grampians also offer opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and wildlife spotting.
Phillip Island
Just a short drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The island is home to a variety of animals, including the famous little penguins that come ashore every evening in what is known as the Penguin Parade. Visitors can also spot koalas in their natural habitat at the Koala Conservation Centre, or watch seals basking in the sun at Seal Rocks. Phillip Island also offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, and opportunities for surfing and fishing.
Entertainment
The Melbourne Comedy Festival
The Melbourne Comedy Festival is one of the largest comedy festivals in the world, attracting both local and international comedians. Held annually in March and April, the festival features a diverse range of shows, from stand-up comedy to improv and sketch performances. Some of the biggest names in comedy have graced the stages of Melbourne’s iconic venues during the festival, making it a must-visit event for comedy lovers.
The Australian Open
As one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments, the Australian Open attracts top tennis players from around the world to Melbourne each January. The tournament offers an exciting atmosphere as spectators cheer on their favorite players at Melbourne Park. In addition to watching thrilling matches, visitors can also enjoy live music performances, food stalls, and interactive activities throughout the tournament.
The Melbourne International Film Festival
The Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) is one of the oldest film festivals in the world and showcases a diverse range of movies from around the globe. Held annually in August, the festival screens both international and Australian films, including feature films, documentaries, and short films. MIFF also hosts industry events, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers, making it a must-attend event for film enthusiasts.
Culture
Aboriginal Culture
Melbourne offers visitors the opportunity to learn about and experience Aboriginal culture through various activities and attractions. The Koorie Heritage Trust Cultural Centre provides insights into the history, art, and traditions of the local Aboriginal people. Visitors can also participate in guided walks and tours that explore significant Aboriginal sites and learn about the Dreamtime stories that are integral to Aboriginal culture.
The National Gallery of Victoria
The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum. It houses an extensive collection of artworks from around the world, including Australian Indigenous art, European masterpieces, and contemporary works. The NGV also hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase a diverse range of art forms, from painting and sculpture to photography and multimedia installations.
The Melbourne Museum
The Melbourne Museum is a must-visit for those interested in natural and cultural history. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including dinosaurs, indigenous culture, and the history of Melbourne. Visitors can explore interactive displays, view ancient artifacts, and learn about the flora and fauna that inhabit Australia. The museum also offers educational programs and special events for visitors of all ages.
Wildlife
The Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park
Located near Anglesea along the Great Ocean Road, the Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park is home to a variety of native Australian animals. Visitors can get up close and personal with kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and even hand-feed some of the animals. The park also offers educational talks and wildlife encounters that provide insights into Australia’s unique wildlife.
The Healesville Sanctuary
Situated in the Yarra Valley, the Healesville Sanctuary is a haven for Australian wildlife. The sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation and protection of native animals, and visitors can see a wide range of species, including kangaroos, wombats, platypus, and birds of prey. The sanctuary also offers interactive experiences such as close encounters with koalas and feeding sessions with kangaroos.
The Phillip Island Penguin Parade
One of the most popular attractions on Phillip Island is the nightly Penguin Parade, where visitors can witness hundreds of little penguins returning to their burrows after a day at sea. The parade takes place at sunset and offers a unique opportunity to observe these adorable creatures up close. Visitors can choose from various viewing options, including general viewing stands or premium experiences that allow for a more intimate encounter with the penguins.
Sports
Australian Football League (AFL)
Australian Rules Football, also known as AFL, is a popular sport in Melbourne, and attending a match is a quintessential Melbourne experience. The city has several AFL teams, including the Collingwood Magpies, Richmond Tigers, and Melbourne Demons. The atmosphere at AFL matches is electric, with passionate fans cheering on their teams and enjoying the fast-paced action on the field.
Cricket Australia
Cricket is another beloved sport in Australia, and Melbourne is home to the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The MCG has a seating capacity of over 100,000 spectators and hosts international cricket matches, including the famous Boxing Day Test match. Watching a cricket match at the MCG is an unforgettable experience, with fans enjoying the game while indulging in traditional cricket snacks like meat pies and sausage rolls.
Melbourne Cup
Known as “the race that stops a nation,” the Melbourne Cup is Australia’s most prestigious horse race and one of the richest turf races in the world. Held annually on the first Tuesday in November at Flemington Racecourse, the Melbourne Cup attracts visitors from around the globe who come to witness the excitement and glamour of the event. The race is a public holiday in Melbourne, and attendees dress up in their finest attire, with the highlight being the famous “Fashions on the Field” competition.
Shopping
Queen Victoria Market
The Queen Victoria Market is a historic landmark in Melbourne and one of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere. The market offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, gourmet food, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. Visitors can stroll through the bustling aisles, sample local delicacies, and interact with friendly vendors. The market also hosts special events such as night markets and live music performances.
Chadstone Shopping Centre
For those looking for a luxury shopping experience, Chadstone Shopping Centre is a must-visit destination. As one of the largest shopping centers in the Southern Hemisphere, Chadstone boasts an impressive selection of high-end fashion brands, designer boutiques, and luxury retailers. The center also features a range of dining options, including upscale restaurants and trendy cafes.
Collins Street
Collins Street is Melbourne’s premier shopping district and is known for its elegant architecture and designer stores. The street is lined with luxury brands such as Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, as well as high-end department stores like David Jones and Myer. Visitors can indulge in a day of retail therapy while admiring the beautiful heritage buildings that line the street.
Melbourne truly has something for everyone, from stunning landmarks and world-class dining to exciting entertainment options and unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re exploring the Great Ocean Road, indulging in gourmet cuisine at Attica or Chin Chin, or immersing yourself in Aboriginal culture at the Koorie Heritage Trust Cultural Centre, Melbourne offers a wealth of attractions and experiences that will leave a lasting impression. With its vibrant arts scene, diverse wildlife, and passion for sports, Melbourne is a city that captivates and delights visitors from around the world.
