Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Melbourne
Melbourne is a bustling, cosmopolitan city known for its vibrant arts, food, and coffee culture. It’s a great destination for holidaymakers and backpackers, offering a mix of trendy neighborhoods, street art, and a laid-back vibe. With plenty of budget-friendly accommodation, efficient public transport, and a variety of cultural experiences, Melbourne is ideal for travellers seeking a blend of creativity, urban exploration, and relaxation.
When to visit
Temp
Mar – May
Sep – Nov
6 – 30°C
43 – 86°F
Melbourne’s Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Eureka Skydeck | Visit the Eureka Skydeck, offering breath-taking 360-degree views of Melbourne from the highest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere. |
| Federation Square | Visit Melbourne’s cultural hub, home to galleries, museums, restaurants, and public events, all set within striking modern architecture. |
| Great Ocean Road | Drive along this iconic coastal route, marvelling at the stunning ocean views, rugged cliffs, and natural landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. |
| Melbourne Laneways | Explore Melbourne’s famous laneways, filled with vibrant street art, hidden cafes, boutique shops, and unique cultural experiences. |
| National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) | Explore Australia’s oldest public art museum, offering a diverse collection of international and Australian art in a stunning modern building. |
| Phillip Island Penguin Parade | Watch the nightly penguin parade on Phillip Island, where you can see hundreds of little penguins return to shore at sunset—a truly unique experience. |
| Queen Victoria Market | Explore this historic market, offering a wide range of fresh produce, gourmet food, clothing, and unique souvenirs in a vibrant atmosphere. |
| Royal Botanic Gardens | Stroll through this lush, expansive garden near the city centre, offering a peaceful escape with beautiful landscapes, lakes, and diverse plant life. |
| St Kilda Beach & Luna Park | Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of St Kilda Beach, known for its lively promenade, cafes, and the historic Luna Park amusement park. |
| Yarra River Cruise | Take a relaxing cruise along the Yarra River, offering scenic views of Melbourne’s skyline, parks, and landmarks from the water. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
Melbourne’s transport options include trams, trains, and buses, all accessible with a Myki card. The city’s extensive tram network is especially convenient for getting around the CBD. Taxis are available, and ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Ola, and Didi are commonly used. Public transport is efficient and budget-friendly for travelers.
Seasonality and Weather
Melbourne experiences four distinct seasons, with weather varying significantly throughout the year. Summer, from December to February, brings warm temperatures averaging 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). Autumn, from March to May, is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 24°C (75°F) and beautiful foliage. Winter lasts from June to August, where temperatures drop to around 6°C (43°F) to 14°C (57°F), often accompanied by rain. Spring, from September to November, features temperatures from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F) and blooming flowers. The best time to visit Melbourne is during spring or autumn for mild weather and vibrant scenery.
Where to stay
Melbourne CBD: Central, walkable, with easy access to attractions, restaurants, and public transport.
Southbank: Riverside, close to arts precincts, dining, and great city views.
Fitzroy: Trendy, known for street art, boutique shopping, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
St Kilda: Ideal for beach lovers, with a laid-back vibe and cafes.
Carlton: Close to museums, gardens, and Italian dining on Lygon Street.
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