Top 10 Things to Do in Melbourne: A Comprehensive Guide

Melbourne: the most livable city in the world. You don't get a title like that without doing something right. As the coastal capital of Victoria, it's a city radiating with culture, arts, and dynamic events every night of the week. While the trains and trams will get you from A-B, it's easy to zone out and miss all of the beautiful scenery (not to mention, public transport is sometimes a bit unpredictable with roadworks). With GoGet, you control the pace and have more time to hit all of the best things, not just in the city, but in harder-to-reach suburbs. From iconic sports complexes to tranquil gardens and bustling markets, there's no shortage of Melbourne attractions. In this guide, we'll explore the top 10 things to do in Melbourne, ensuring you experience the best of what this Australian gem has to offer.

1. Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens

Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, the Royal Botanic Gardens is an expansive sanctuary of flora spanning over 38 hectares. These gardens are not just a feast for the eyes with their thousands of plant species, but also a pivotal centre for botanical research. Strolling through the well-maintained paths, visitors can explore diverse plant collections and enjoy thematic gardens like the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, which offers an insight into the history of the indigenous peoples of Australia. The gardens are a perfect spot for a peaceful picnic or a leisurely walk, especially during Melbourne’s warm summers.

2. Catch a Game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

For sports enthusiasts, a visit to the Melbourne Cricket Ground is a must. Known as Australia's premier sports stadium, the MCG has a capacity of over 100,000 and serves as a venue for cricket in the summer and AFL in the winter. Touring the MCG provides an opportunity to learn about its storied history and significance in Australian sports, including hosting the 1956 Summer Olympics. For an unforgettable experience, try to catch a live game where the electrifying atmosphere is truly palpable.

3. Discover Sydney Road

A 20-minute drive north of the city centre, Brunswick is a cultural hotspot within Melbourne, renowned for its live music scene, bustling markets, and street art-lined laneways. A stroll through the iconic Sydney Road will have you exploring diverse cuisine from Middle Eastern to Mediterranean, housed in charming cafes and family-run restaurants. This is also a prime suburb for op shopping, with venues like Savers and Scavengers drawing in both modern vintage style lovers. For art enthusiasts, Brunswick’s galleries and workshops host regular exhibitions featuring local artists (be sure to check out Beinart Gallery and HONEY BONES for a truly inspiring art journey!). If you're in Brunswick East, be sure to drive by CERES, an environmental education community centre that has a cafe on site.

4. Shop at Queen Victoria Market

Queen Victoria Market, affectionately known as "Vic Market," is more than just Melbourne’s largest open-air market—it's a historic landmark and a sensory delight. Offering everything from fresh produce and gourmet foods to unique souvenirs and crafts, the market is one of the city's best places to interact with local vendors and soak in the surroundings. Don’t miss the hot jam doughnuts, a local favourite. It's also home to night markets where food, entertainment, and live music create a festive atmosphere during the Winter and Summer months. This should definitely be on your Melbourne bucket list.

5. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

The National Gallery of Victoria, the oldest and most visited gallery in Australia, holds a vast collection of art from around the globe. With two magnificent buildings, the NGV International and The Ian Potter Centre, these art galleries present an array of exhibitions ranging from classical to contemporary art with permanent exhibitions as well as rotating. Highlights include the gallery’s permanent collection of Australian art, which is the largest in the world, featuring works from the colonial period to modern times.

6. Explore the Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building

The Melbourne Museum and the adjacent Royal Exhibition Building offer a fascinating dive into the natural and cultural history of Victoria. The museum features diverse exhibitions that cover everything from the region’s environment to its people. The nearby Royal Exhibition Building, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a historical monument and is one of the world's oldest remaining exhibition pavilions. Together, these landmarks provide a comprehensive look at Melbourne's heritage and its ongoing cultural evolution.

7. Discover the Inner West 

Another quick 20-minute drive to the West, start your exploration in Yarraville, a charming suburb known for its quaint, village-like atmosphere, where you can browse through boutique shops and enjoy a film at the iconic Sun Theatre. Next, venture to Williamstown to visit Seaworks, an intriguing maritime precinct that often hosts markets, festivals, Summer outdoor movies, and exhibits, all set against the backdrop of historic docks and sweeping views of Melbourne’s skyline. This blend of cultural history, entertainment, and scenic beauty makes the Inner West an ideal destination for a fulfilling day out.

8. Sunbathe in St. Kilda Beach

As a hub for sunbathing, shopping, and bar hopping, St. Kilda Beach caters to all interests. The iconic St. Kilda Pier is not only a prime spot for stunning sunset views but also for observing the charming little penguins as they come ashore at dusk. A walk along the famous Acland Street will offer up numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops to pass the day. The lively Esplanade (or 'Espy') is another key attraction, hosting markets, live music, and outdoor activities that add to the energetic spirit of this seaside community. Every Sunday from 10 am, dive into the countless stalls spanning several blocks along the Esplanade. After all that browsing, stop by Luna Park with its historic roller coaster and epic photo op out front, providing endless entertainment for families and thrill-seekers alike.

9. See A Show at the Arts Centre and Queen Regent Theatre

Arts Centre Melbourne, nestled on the banks of the Yarra River, stands as a focal point of cultural sophistication. This iconic complex is home to various theatres and spaces, including the majestic State Theatre, the intimate Fairfax Studio, and the cutting-edge Hamer Hall. The Centre's striking spire, a celebrated Melbourne landmark, soars above the cityscape, illuminating the night with its light displays.

Just a short distance away, the Queen Regent Theatre in Melbourne's CBD is one of Victoria's most famous tourist attractions. This historic venue, known for its stunning Edwardian Baroque architecture, offers a mix of performances that often include Broadway hits, local productions, and international shows. Together, Arts Centre Melbourne and the nearby Queen Regent Theatre create a compelling cultural circuit for visitors.

10. Strut Your Stuff on Chapel Street

Chapel Street, stretching through the heart of Melbourne's inner suburbs, is a vibrant and eclectic strip renowned for its fashion, dining, and nightlife (with MANY bars). This bustling thoroughfare boasts boutique stores, upscale restaurants, and local galleries showcasing contemporary works. Catch a movie at the historic Astor Theatre or stumble upon live performances at one of the dozens of intimate theatres. As evening falls, Chapel Street transforms into a lively nightlife hub, with bars and clubs pulsing with music and energy, making it a perfect destination for those looking to experience the dynamic urban culture of Melbourne.

Conclusion

Each of these top attractions showcases the diversity and vibrancy of Melbourne's best hotspots, making them essential stops on any itinerary. Whether you’re a culture buff, a sports fan, or simply in search of some leisure and relaxation, Melbourne has something to offer for every traveller. GoGet fits the bill whenever you're looking for a cheap and efficient way to tour the town, with hundreds of options around the city for however long you need.

Travelling to Sydney? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Sydney in winter.