Keytours Vacations Personalized Unique Travel Experiences

Discover Melbourne's Wonders

Melbourne, the state capital of Victoria, rests on the coast and has become known as the art center of Australia. At the city's centre is the modern Federation Square development, with plazas, bars, and restaurants by the Yarra River. In the Southbank Area, however, the art scene reigns with the performance complex, Art Centre Melbourne, and the National Gallery of Victoria, featuring both Australian and indigenous art.

Current Weather

53.64 °F - Clouds Min/Max: 50.95 °F / 55.9 °FFeels: 52.79 °F Humidity: 87%5 Day Forecast

Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

Melbourne is the second-largest city in Australia and is known to be Australia’s most cultured city — although some Sydney-siders would contest this. The city’s main attractions are museums, galleries and theatres, large green spaces and the Yarra River flowing across the urban centre. Melbourne has seen wave after wave of new arrivals with Italians, Greeks, Chinese and Vietnamese all adding ingredients to the cultural and culinary mix. And there are the sports-mad, of course. Each year, Melbourne plays host to some of the world’s major international sports events such as the Australian Open in tennis, and Formula 1 racing. The city developed during the height of the Victorian gold rush in the late 1800s, which shows through the Victorian-era architecture in some neighbourhoods. However, developments over the years have also left their mark, recently with the new and modern Federation Square complex, and the Docklands redevelopment. Probably the most famous snapshot of Melbourne is the television series "Neighbours" recorded here and broadcast across the world for more than 20 years. If you fancy a trip out of the city, Melbourne is also a great base for 1-2 day tours to, for example, the Grampians National Park, the Great Ocean Road with the Twelve Apostles, local wineries, or to observe the masses of penguins on Phillip Island coming home from a day at sea. Enjoy your stay in what many claim is the hippest city in the southern hemisphere.

Useful information

Population:

5.3 million (2024)

Currency:

Australian Dollar (AUD) $1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

Ambulance, fire or police: 000
(call 112 if using a mobile without network)
Poisons information: 13 11 26
Lifeline: 13 11 14

Opening Hours:

Most shops and businesses are open between 9am and 5:30pm on weekdays and Saturdays. Sunday trading is also becoming more common with shops being open from 10am to 4pm.

Do & See

Abbotsford Convent

Once known as the Convent of the Good Shepherd, the Convent provided refuge for vulnerable women, children and orphans. Nowadays, the convent building and formal gardens play host to events and festivals, workshops and classes, music and theatre performances, and in summer, outdoor cinema. Located on a bend of the Yarra river, the historic site features beautiful and eerie gothic spires of the convent, lush lawns, secluded courtyards and a meticulously restored formal garden. Entry is also free and the garden is open late. Have a beer or even join a team of gardening volunteers.

Astor Theatre

The oldest single-screen theatre in Melbourne's inner suburb of St Kilda, the Astor has become a must-do for cinephiles since it first opened its doors in 1936. The classic auditorium theatre runs a program of new and classic films in 35mm, 70mm and digital formats. Come here to enjoy remastered classics, new independent movies, film festivals and special events.

Australian Sports Museum

Sport is a very important part of Melbourne culture and Australian Sports Museum displays wonderful collections of cricket, football, Olympic Games, soccer and many other sports artefacts. This is a great place for the whole family; the younger visitors will certainly enjoy the on-site interactive games.

Brunswick Street

When in Melbourne, one must visit the bohemian Brunswick Street in Fitzroy, an area well known for its many bars, cafés, restaurants and unique boutiques that remain busy any hour of the day. Catch an indie music performance, see an art display or shop around for something unique.

Crown Casino

Melbourne is famous for its huge entertainment complex, Crown Casino at Southbank. Here you can enjoy a good dinner, gamble, dance your shoes off, or do some shopping. The complex also houses hotel and spa facilities, with special package offers available.

Dandenong Ranges

East of Melbourne lie the Dandenong Ranges, a scenic area containing low mountain ranges, tranquil lakes, lush forests and cute little villages. Here you can ride an iconic steam train, cycle or hike through magical places such as Sherbrooke Forest, or just relax in a spa. This is a great place for all nature lovers who wish to escape the bustling city life.

Federation Square

This futuristic plaza is one of the most complex and ambitious construction projects ever undertaken in Australia, serving as Melbourne’s civic centre with cafés, restaurants, an amphitheater and several museums such as the Ian Potter Centre that showcases Australian art. There’s also a farmers market every Friday and a book market on Saturdays.

Funfields

Funfields is located 40 kilometres north of Melbourne and is an outdoor family fun park with rides to suit all ages. Here you can enjoy limitless rides all day on all the attractions including toboggans, go karts, water slides, pony express carousel, the water playground and much, much more.

Dining

Becco

Becco is a lively restaurant and one of the downtown's most popular Italian eateries. The speciality here is seafood, and if you’re a fish lover then try the ‘whole fish of the day’ special. Becco is most known for its innovative approach to Italian classics. You will also find an adjoining bar on-site.

China Bar Signature

China Bar Signature is the largest buffet restaurant in Melbourne, and one that offers the best of Asian cuisine. The food is prepared by some of the finest chefs from China, Vietnam, Malaysia and Hong Kong. Here you can enjoy dishes like sushi, sashimi, fresh oysters, Peking duck, yum cha, noodles and traditional Asian soups.

Hakata Gensuke QV — Chicken Ramen

Few are left indifferent by the copious servings of Hakata Ramen at this Melbourne joint. Arrive shortly after peak lunch hours (around 3 pm) and be seated with no wait. Several varieties of ramen are on offer.

Imperial South Yarra

Imperial bistro is located right in the heart of Chapel Street with a lovely view over the street action. This is one of the finest establishments in South Yarra, and so many come here to eat before they start their night out. The menu is varied, with a large selection of dishes to share made with fresh seasonal ingredients. Extensive local and international wine and beer lists available.

Jimmy Watson’s

Serving up predominantly European cuisine, this three-generation deep Australian wine dynasty provides a dining experience that will stick with you. Peruse their comprehensive wine selection on the refreshing verdant terrace, or ascend to the rooftop bar.

Laksa King

The wildly popular Laksa King is packed at lunch and dinner hours — no reservations and cash only — so do arrive in time to indulge in some of the city's most flavourful and authentic Malaysian cuisine and hawker food.

Robarta

The San Telmo Group, celebrated for their South American gastronomic expertise, welcomes a new member — Robata. This spot infuses the traditional Japanese robatayaki method into the group's grill-focused ethos. Robata offers an array of yakitori choices, each paired with a distinctive dressing. Its more filling menu items include pork tonkatsu and kaisen don with fresh, sashimi-grade fish. Housed in the ex-Gazi location, Robata mirrors the buzz of Tokyo's Shibuya district with a capacity for over 100 guests and a meticulously crafted ambiance.

Shark Fin Inn

Located in Chinatown, this restaurant serves some of the finest authentic Cantonese food in Melbourne. It is a favourite for dim sum, and the establishment's menu includes a daily selection of over 100 Chinese dishes. There are 4 locations in the area.

Cafes

Bakemono Bakers

Bakemono Bakery is a homey Japanese-inspired bakery with a wood-framed glass facade and a minimalistic natural clean look. Arrive early to have first dibs on almond-yuzu croissants and cream-cheese buns. Of course, you are welcome to have your baked goodies with a cup of coffee here.

BearBrass

The fun and artsy BearBrass provides a good reason to take in a coffee, drink or meal at a fantastic location in Southbank right on the Yarra River — you will have terrific views of the city as you stop by for a break.

Degraves Espresso Bar

This coffee bar with character serves a delicious morning fry-up and a great espresso. The decor is a blend between Paris and Melbourne and, in true Degraves Street style, it’s an alfresco café. Some seats were borrowed directly from an old cinema.

Norman South Yarra

Norman in South Yarra is a two-level brunch cafe. Aussie staples like Vegemite, avocado toast, waffles with red capsicum curd, and banana split french toast are served in a cozy space with wood paneling.

Operator25

Operator25 is an all-day brunch cafe and coffee spot in a historic 1900s building that housed Melbourne's first switchboard. The menu has a surprising and delightful Asian twist.

Pellegrini's Espresso Bar

Opened by two Italian brothers in 1954, Pellegrini's Espresso Bar has become one of the most well-known cafes in Melbourne. It doesn't have a fixed menu, so that every day's offer is a surprise. However, you can always expect fine pasta-based dishes like spaghetti Bolognese and lasagna. Finish your meal with a watermelon granita or their excellent espresso.

Proud Mary

Proud Mary serves breakfast and single-origin coffee in a warehouse style with exposed-brick walls. This venue in Collingwood market the beginning of a popular cafe chain. You will find the most hip methods of producing a cup of caffeinated goodness, as well as excellent food. Try their classic potato hash brown with bacon, spinach and egg.

Roule Galette

This excellent, authentic French creperie serves a wide variety of both sweet and savoury crepes. Roule Galette remains busy despite its tucked away location, so be prepared for a short wait (one that will certainly turn out to be more than worth it).

Bars & Nightlife

Above Board

Above Board is a perfect spot for pre-drinks or after-drinks when out in Collingwood. It is a tiny room with only 16 seats that face the visionary bartender Hayden Lambert, as he gives you a a masterclass in storytelling and cocktail craft. Personalised drinks come with a side of dad jokes and dry wit.

Bad Frankie

The guys at Bad Frankie have a pretty incredible selection of exclusively Australian spirits — all the big ones and plenty of small distilleries. Their cocktail use native ingredients such as pepper berry, macadamia, lemon myrtle, and gum tree leaves. The grilled sandwiches — jaffles — are hot, homely and absolutely mouthwatering. Open late, casual and always fun.

Curious

Curious is a "hidden bar" at the Flinders Lane hotel W Melbourne with a tasteful nod to Alice in Wonderland. The entrance can be found on Market Street — a glass door in front of a wall adorned with numerous clocks. Step around the wall of clocks and head down the spiral staircase towards a dimly lit underground space. The interior design is impressive and it is definitely the place to see and be seen. Sample their menu of small bites and shared plates.

Goldilocks Bar

Goldilocks is a lovely tucked away rooftop bar. Really tasty drinks and lovely little lights for that ultimate cozy vibe. The drinks menu is always changing, so you will never get bored of coming here.

Inflation

Inflation features pool tables, padded booths, large TV screens, a rooftop area and, of course, bars and dance floors playing electro house. Dress to impress! Come to the rooftop on a Friday night and enjoy a cocktail in the breezy setting.

Madame Brussels

This third floor bar is an indoor beer garden and cocktail bar with exceptionally friendly staff and garden furniture. The pink-and-white decor itself is half the establishment's attraction. If you are feeling hungry, order a light meal served in tapas-sized portions.

Mr Wilkinson

Mr Wilkinson is a cozy bar with a relaxed atmosphere and a compact courtyard. The staff will serve you light bites and will expertly help you choose one of the craft beers.

NFS Restaurant

This rooftop bar decorated with antiques serves small plates and infused vodka. The view does not get much better than this. The name is a bit controversial: Naked For Satan, after Satanovich, the entrepreneurial grandson of a Russian vodka maker who ran shop here in the early 20th century.

Shopping

Brunswick Street

Brunswick Street is also a popular place to go shopping with plenty of alternative fashion shops and vintage clothing stores mixed among funky record shops and retro furniture stores. It’s your best bet for Melbourne-specific designs and artistic creations.

Chapel Street

Chapel Street is a famous Melbourne shopping strip which runs from Windsor, through Prahran and towards South Yarra. Don't miss the unique opportunity to check out young Australian designers and so some people-watching from the excellent bars and restaurants. Stay in South Yarra for designer clothes or head south to Prahran and Windsor for alternative cafes, vintage stores and relaxed bars frequented by locals.

Melbourne Central Shopping Centre

This urban inner-city arcade is a style-laden destination for shopping, eating & entertainment with over 300 stores to explore. You can easily spend an afternoon here. There is also a decent food court inside the shopping centre, which makes grabbing a bite easy and convenient.

Myer

Myer is a city institution established over 80 years ago and the biggest single department store in Australia where you will find everything from clothes, shoes, accessories, beauty products to toys and home decor. The best goods to look out for are woollen garments, bush gear, handcrafted jewellery (particularly opals), woodwork design and ceramics.

Prahran Market

The Prahran Market is the city’s best food market and is a great place to grab some delicious lunch and high quality fruit and vegetables. Also a place to buy sustainable seafood and meat products.

Queen Victoria Market

The heart and soul of Melbourne, The Queen Victoria Market is the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere, selling everything there is to find under the sun. When the hunger kicks in, stop by any of the food stalls for some affordable tasty street-style lunch. It is located on the corner of Victoria and Peel streets.

QV

Short for "Queen Victoria Village", QV is one of Melbourne’s latest and most exciting retail developments which boasts a mix of fashion boutiques, homeware and furniture stores, and multiple other outlets, down to supermarkets, restaurants and cafes.

The Block Arcade

This arcade on Collins Street - Melbourne’s main shopping street - is a grand 1892 Victorian building packed with exclusive shops selling elegant leather wear, glassware and couture. The building itself is worth a visit and is often included into the itinerary of Melbourne heritage walks.

Tourist Information

Best Time To Visit

Time your visit to Melbourne for autumn (March to May) or spring (September to November). These are the sweet spots when the city's weather is at its finest. Ideal for sauntering about on foot or pedalling around on a bike, you'll revel in the abundance of outdoor activities Melbourne has to offer.

Passport/Visa

Unless you are a New Zealand citizen granted visa exemption on arrival (in most cases), you will need to obtain a visa prior to visiting Australia. Citizens of all European Union countries, as well as Andorra, Norway, Iceland, San Marino, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, and Vatican City are eligible for an eVisitor visa, which can be applied for online. For citizens of the United States, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Brunei, South Korea and Malaysia, the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) entry permit is available, which can be applied for online and grants holders the right to enter Australia an unlimited amount of times for stays of no longer than 3 months per visit. Citizens of all other world countries (with the exception of Somalia) are also able to apply for a visitor visa online. For more information, visit the official website of the Australian government's department of home affairs.

Avalon Airport (AVV)

Avalon Airport, an international hub located in Avalon, is part of the Greater Geelong area in Victoria. It holds the title of the second busiest airport serving Melbourne, despite not being located in the city's metropolitan area. Positioned 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) from Geelong's city centre and 50 kilometres (31 miles) from Melbourne's heart, it's easily accessible. SkyBus manages the Avalon City Express, providing regular airport transfers to Melbourne CBD and Werribee, in line with major flight schedules. The taxi pick-up and drop-off area is conveniently situated right outside the terminal, making your journey hassle-free. Avalon Airport is served by the Geelong Taxi Network, Black & White Cabs, and 13 CABS.

Melbourne Airport (MEL)

The Melbourne Airport, also known as Tullamarine Airport, is located 25 kilometres north of the city. The Skybus shuttle bus offers service from the airport to Southern Cross Station in Melbourne city from 4am to 1 am every day. Airport taxis are available from the ground floor level outside all terminals.

Public Transport

Tram travel is free throughout all of Melbourne's city centre, with "free zone" limits clearly marked at tram stops and indicated on board the trams themselves. Fare payment is required outside the free tram zone, which is done by a chargeable "myki" travel card (works on trains, trams and buses). Metro trains cover the city centre and suburban areas with Flinders Street Station as the main hub and run from around 5am to midnight. There are 5 central stations: Flinders Street, Southern Cross, Flagstaff, Melbourne Central and Parliament. Buses cover the whole city and suburbia, and run from 5:30 am to 11:30 pm, with several routes operating throughout the night. Bike Share service is also available for those eager to explore the city by bicycle, first 30 minutes of use are free of charge but a small deposit is required. You can also use the Yarra River as a means of transportation, where boat cruises, water taxis and even gondolas will take you on board.

Taxi

Uber, Ola, DiDi, Shebah and GoCatch ridesharing apps are used in Melbourne. It’s usually easy to find a cab in Melbourne. Taxis are metered. Here are two popular taxi companies: Silver Top Taxi Services (+61 13 10 08) and 13CABS (+61 13 22 27).

Electricity

Australia operates on a 230/240V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The country uses Type I power plugs, which feature two flat pins forming a 'V' shape, along with a grounding pin. This standard is also commonly used in New Zealand, Argentina, China, and several Pacific island nations. Remember to pack a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type to ensure hassle-free charging.

Pharmacy

Many of the pharmacies in the city centre are open from 8 am to 8pm or later. Two major pharmaceutical chains in Melbourne are Soul Pattinson and Amcal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Melbourne?

The best time to visit Melbourne is during the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) when the weather is mild and the city hosts numerous events and festivals.

What are the must-see attractions in Melbourne?

Must-see attractions in Melbourne include the Royal Botanic Gardens, Federation Square, the Melbourne Zoo, and the vibrant street art in the laneways of the CBD.

How can I get around Melbourne efficiently?

Melbourne has an extensive public transport system, including trams, trains, and buses. The city is also very walkable, and cycling is popular with many bike lanes available.

What local dishes should I try in Melbourne?

In Melbourne, try local favorites such as a classic meat pie, barramundi fish, or a flat white coffee. The city is also renowned for its diverse international cuisine.

How many days should I spend in Melbourne to see the main sights?

Spending 3 to 4 days in Melbourne is ideal to explore the main sights, enjoy its vibrant culture, and take a day trip to nearby attractions like the Great Ocean Road.

What are some popular neighborhoods to explore in Melbourne?

Popular neighborhoods to explore include Fitzroy for its bohemian vibe, St Kilda for its beach and nightlife, and Southbank for its arts precinct and dining options.

Are there any day trips I can take from Melbourne?

Yes, popular day trips from Melbourne include visiting the Yarra Valley wine region, the scenic Great Ocean Road, and the wildlife-rich Phillip Island.

Trips

Australia and New Zealand Ultimate Private Journey

Melbourne Pre or Post Cruise

Australia and New Zealand Ultimate Private Journey

Melbourne Pre or Post Cruise

Australia and New Zealand Ultimate Private Journey

Melbourne Pre or Post Cruise

Let’s plan your next vacation

Let us take care of all the details to create the perfect trip for you. With our expertise and personalized service, we will ensure that every moment of your trip is special and unforgettable. Get ready to embark on a dream adventure!

Your Trip Plan is Empty