From stunning beaches to lush gardens and its buzzing nightlife to a thriving cultural scene, Melbourne has something for everyone. Take a stroll through the city’s iconic laneways and explore the hidden gems that lie within. Visit the bustling markets and sample some of the city’s best food. Take a ride on the historic trams or simply relax in one of the city’s many parks and gardens.
No matter the type of experience you’re after, you’ll find plenty of amazing attractions in Melbourne to enjoy. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, you’re sure to enjoy an unforgettable experience. To help start your planning, here are some of the best Melbourne attractions to check out on your next visit to the city.
Explore The Melbourne Laneways
Hidden amongst the streets of Melbourne CBD, Melbourne’s laneways are home to a thriving culture of street art, boutique shops, and quirky cafes. One of the most popular laneways to visit is Hosier Lane, renowned for its ever-changing graffiti and street art. Another must-visit laneway is Degraves Street with its European-style atmosphere and many cafes, restaurants, and quaint specialty shops – perfect for refuelling as you walk the laneways.
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, head to the Block Arcade, a heritage-listed shopping arcade that dates back to the 1890s. Here you’ll find an array of charming boutique shops selling everything from handmade jewellery to high-end fashion and endless spots to stock up on Melbourne souvenirs and trinkets to take home with you.
Some of our favourite Melbourne laneways:
- AC/DC Lane
- Block Arcade
- Cathedral Arcade
- Centre Place
- Degraves Street
- Hardware Lane
- Hosier Lane
- Tattersalls Lane
Ascend The Melbourne Skydeck
Towering a staggering 285 metres above the ground, Melbourne Skydeck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, waterways and Port Phillip Bay. Located on the 88th floor of the iconic Eureka Tower, the Skydeck is officially the highest public viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere. On a clear day, you can see up to 40 kilometres in all directions, from the stunning city skyline to the rolling hills of the Dandenong Ranges, making it one of the best Melbourne city attractions.
Another highlight of the Skydeck experience is The Edge – a glass cube which extends 3 metres out from the building, allowing you to take in the views while suspended almost 300 metres above the ground. Take the experience to the next level with the new virtual reality Plank Experience, which dares the brave to balance on a wobbly plank in VR, with Melbourne beneath their feet. Enjoy a meal with a view at the Skydeck Cafe or the Edge Restaurant, or simply relax on a uniquely elevated experience that you’ll remember for years to come.
- Eureka Tower: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia.
- Open Times: 12 pm to 10 pm daily.
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon and sunset.
Visit SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
Visiting the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is an absolute must-do for anyone visiting the city. Be transported to a world of underwater wonder in the heart of the city. Home to a huge variety of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and jellyfish, the aquarium lets you get up close to a huge variety of species. Tanks are designed to mimic the natural habitats of the creatures, giving a real sense of what it’s like to be in the ocean.
One of the highlights of Sea Life Melbourne are the King and Gentoo penguins. The aquarium also offers interactive experiences, such as the chance to touch a starfish or feed the fish. These activities are great for kids, and they’ll love the chance to get up close and personal with the creatures.
Whether you’re a kid or an adult, you’ll leave Sea Life with a newfound appreciation for the ocean.
- Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium: King St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia.
- Weekday Opening: Monday – Friday: 10 am to 5 pm.
- Weekend Opening: Saturday & Sunday: 9:30 am – 5 pm.
Explore the National Gallery of Victoria
Another iconic attraction in Melbourne that you won’t want to miss is the one and only National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). Boasting an impressive collection of more than 75,000 works of art spanning multiple genres, cultures and time periods. In addition to its vast collection, the NGV is also known for its world-class exhibitions and events, which take place around the year. Enjoy an afternoon of classic culture as you view pieces from renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Rembrandt, as well as a significant collection of contemporary art.
NGV International is one of two locations of the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) in Melbourne, Australia. the NGV International houses the museum’s international art collection, featuring artworks from Europe, Asia, America, and Oceania. Located at Federation Square, The Ian Potter Centre NGV Australia is the second of the two locations. Dedicated to Australian art, it showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage from colonial times to the present day. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, photography, and multimedia installations from some of Australia’s most renowned artists.
- NGV International: 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne.
- Opening Hours: 10 am to 5 pm, 7 days a week.
- NGV Australia Fed Square: The Ian Potter Centre, Fed Square, Melbourne.
- Opening Hours: 10 am to 5 pm, 7 days a week.
Ride the City Circle Free Tram
Riding the City Circle Free Tram in Melbourne is one of the very best ways to explore all that the city has to offer. Enjoy a journey around the city, past some of the most beloved attractions in Melbourne and iconic landmarks. Departing from the corner of Flinders Street and Swanston Street, hop on the City Circle Tram and learn about Melbourne as you soak up the vibrant street art and historic buildings.
Stopping at some of the most popular Melbourne city attractions, hop off to explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, the National Gallery of Victoria, Federation Square, and the Melbourne Museum. You can also take in the stunning views of the Yarra River and the city skyline. A fun, convenient and affordable way to explore the city and its attractions, riding the City Tram is an activity in itself.
- 10 am – 6 pm Sun-Wed & 10 am – 9 pm Thurs, Fri & Sat.
- Run times: Every 12 minutes.
- Cost: Free.
Shop Til You Drop at DFO South Wharf
South Wharf DFO offers a wide variety of local and international brands at discounted prices, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers. Located on the banks of the Yarra River, spend a day browsing a variety of items, including clothing, footwear, accessories, homeware, and technology products. With over 100 stores to choose from, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring the shopping centre’s offerings.
Stock up on popular fashion brands such as Nike, Adidas, Calvin Klein, and Tommy Hilfiger, as well as technology giants like Apple. South Wharf DFO also features a range of specialty stores offering products such as chocolates, confectionery, and fragrances. For those looking for a quick bite, South Wharf DFO features several cafes and food courts offering coffee, sandwiches, wraps, and pastries.
- Opening Times: 10 am to 6 pm Daily.
- Location: 20 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf VIC 3006.
Make a Weekend of Melbourne
Take advantage of the best activities and attractions in Melbourne when checking into Crowne Plaza Melbourne – Melbourne’s only absolute riverfront accommodation. Relax in guest rooms made for memorable stays, dine in the onsite restaurants, or explore the city with ease from the hotel’s convenient location.
Enjoy a day of shopping or take a stroll along the Yarra River. Visit the iconic Melbourne Skydeck for stunning views of the city skyline, or tour the city on the Free Tram. With so much to do, Crowne Plaza Melbourne is the ultimate inner-city oasis to retreat to after a long day of fun and adventure.