Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital, is a vibrant city where art, food, and creativity converge. Known for its eclectic laneways filled with street art, quirky cafés, and boutique shops, the city invites exploration around every corner. Coming from Montreal (Canada), I found Melbourne to have a lot of similarities to home, which gave me a big sense of comfort when I visited. I travelled to Melbourne back in June of 2025 for 1 month, and I am so happy to say that Melbourne definitely stole a piece of my heart. I’m super excited to share with you the 23 best things to do in Melbourne, Australia. Happy travels!

Table of Contents

• 1. Visit the State Library Victoria
• 2. Take pictures at Brighton Bathing Boxes
• 3. Look for souvenirs at the Queen Victoria Market
• 4. Sign up for a free walking tour
• 5. Watch an Australian Football game
• 6. Buy vintage clothing at the Fitzroy Market
• 7. Discover the coffee shops in Melbourne
• 8. Stroll along the Yarra River
• 9. Visit the South Melbourne Market
• 10. Shop at the Emporium Mall
• 11. Discover the nightlife in Melbourne
• 12. Discover the restaurants around China town
• 13. Observe the penguins at St Kilda Pier
• 14. Watch the sunset from Point Ormond
• 15. Visit the Fitzroy Garden
• 16. Walk around the Royal Botanic Gardens
• 17. Admire the street art at Hozier Lane
• 18. Spend a rainy day at the National Gallery of Victoria
• 19. Explore the culinary scene in Melbourne
• 20. Visit the Flinders Street Station
• 21. Eat frozen yogurt at Yo-Chi
• 22. Road trip along the Great Ocean Road
• 23. Stroll around with kangaroos at Westerfolds Park

1. Visit the State Library Victoria

The State Library Victoria is one of Melbourne’s most beautiful and historic buildings, perfect for a quiet break in the busy city. Inside, you’ll find the stunning La Trobe Reading Room with its huge domed ceiling and rows of wooden desks—it feels like stepping into a grand old movie. The library is free to enter and also has cool exhibits, including Ned Kelly’s armour and rare old books. Whether you’re into history, architecture, or just want a peaceful place to relax, it’s a must-visit spot in the heart of Melbourne.

2. Take pictures at Brighton Bathing Boxes

The Brighton Bathing Boxes are a row of colorful wooden beach huts sitting on the sand at Brighton Beach in Melbourne, Australia. Each box is painted in bright, unique designs, making them a fun and eye-catching sight. Built over 100 years ago, they’re still used today to store beach gear. It’s a great spot for a beach walk, a swim, or just to enjoy the view and take some vibrant pictures.

I recommend coming around one hour before sunset because the lighting is incredible! The sun shines directly on the boxes, giving it a glow, and it’s also perfect for portrait pictures. To get there, I took the train from Flinders Station in Melbourne, and it is 15 minute walk from the nearest train station to the Brighton Bathing Boxes.

3. Look for souvenirs at the Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne is a big, lively place where you can find all kinds of fresh food, souvenirs, clothes, and handmade items. It’s been around for over 140 years and is full of energy, with friendly stallholders and delicious smells from food stands. You can try fresh fruit, cheese, coffee, and even hot jam doughnuts from a famous van. It’s a fun spot to walk around, grab a bite, and see the local culture in action.

If you want to get great deals for groceries, I recommend going to the Queen Victoria Market about 1 hour before it closes. At that time, since the vendors want to get rid of their products, they reduce the price of the produce. For example, they will sell a load of bread for 1$, or even 1 kg of fruits for 1-2$.

I loved this market so much that I came here multiple times. I mainly bought fun souvenirs, such as a rugby jersey t-shirt, hair clips, a stuffed animal, patches, pins, and jewelry. Honestly if I had less self control, I would have bought so many other things.

4. Sign up for a free walking tour

There are lots of free walking tours you can sign up to in Melbourne! I decided to book mine with Guru walks. I think that free walking tours are such a great way to discover a city because you get to learn about the history of the city with a local, and it’s a great way to start you time in a city when you don’t really know what to visit yet. We visited the main attractions in Melbourne such as the Flinders Station, St Paul’s Cathedral, Yarra River, Queen Victoria Market, and much more.

5. Watch an Australian Football game

AFL, or Australian Football League, is Australia’s most popular sport and a big part of the culture, especially in Melbourne. It’s a fast and exciting game played on a big oval field, where players kick, handball, and run with an oval-shaped ball to score points. The atmosphere at a live match is electric, with passionate fans wearing team colors, cheering loudly, and enjoying meat pies. Watching an AFL game is a fun way to experience Aussie sports and feel the local spirit.

We watched a game on a random Saturday that was Collingwood (Melbourne) vs West Coast Eagles (Perth). What really surprised me was the price of the tickets (16 AUD!), and what was nice was the tickets we got were “general admission,” so later when other people wanted to also join our plans, they could simply buy the “general admission” tickets, and we would still be seated together since those tickets are on a first come first serve basis for the seats.

6. Buy vintage clothing at the Fitzroy Market

The Fitzroy Market is a small, friendly market held in one of Melbourne’s coolest neighborhoods. It has a mix of second-hand clothes, handmade crafts, vintage treasures, and tasty food. Locals and visitors come to browse, chat with stallholders, and enjoy the relaxed, creative vibe. It’s a great place to find something unique, listen to live music, and soak up the artistic spirit of Fitzroy.

Personally the Fitzroy Market was my favourite out of all the markets in Melbourne. The pieces are so nice that I wanted to buy everything. I ended up getting a small brown purse. The only downside I would say is that the market can get very crowded, and the changing rooms aren’t very optimal.

7. Discover the coffee shops in Melbourne

Melbourne is famous for its amazing coffee scene, with cozy cafés on almost every corner. People here take their coffee seriously, and baristas are known for making perfect lattes, flat whites, and espresso with great care. Many cafés roast their own beans and offer beautiful latte art. It’s not just about the drink—it’s about the experience, with stylish spaces, friendly vibes, and a love for good conversation. If you enjoy coffee, Melbourne is the perfect city to explore cup by cup.

Here is a list of the coffee shops I went to and that I recommend the most:

• Good Measure. Famous for their MontBlanc coffee.
• Baguette Studios.
• Code Black Coffee
• Small Batch Roasting Co.
• Patricia Coffee Brewers

8. Stroll along the Yarra River

The Yarra River flows through the heart of Melbourne and is a peaceful place to relax and explore. You can walk or bike along the paths beside it, enjoy a riverside café, or take a boat ride to see the city from the water. The river is lined with parks, art, and city views, making it a great spot for both locals and visitors. At night, the lights from the buildings reflect beautifully on the water, creating a magical atmosphere.

9. Visit the South Melbourne Market

The South Melbourne Market is a lively and local favorite, known for its fresh food, friendly feel, and great variety. You can find everything from seafood, fruit, and veggies to handmade gifts, clothes, and flowers. There are also tasty food stalls where you can try dumplings, pastries, and fresh coffee. It’s a fun place to wander, shop, and eat, with a welcoming vibe that shows off Melbourne’s food and community spirit.

When I was at the South Melbourne Market, I went to Agathé Pâtisserie, which is a pastry shop that I recommend so much! I had seen on their reviews that the Pandan flavour croissant was very famous, but I didn’t understand how the croissant would taste could just looking at the picture. However, the taste really surprised me, and it is honestly one of the best croissants that I have ever had.

10. Shop at the Emporium Mall

Emporium Melbourne, nestled in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, blends historic charm with modern flair in a seven‑level shopping centre built behind the restored early 20th‑century Myer façade. Inside, you’ll find over 200 stores showcasing local designers and international brands like Uniqlo and Nike, all arranged in a stylish, light‑filled setting that feels uniquely Melbourne. On level three, the vibrant “café court” brings together more than 30 food vendors—from dumplings and pho to gourmet burgers and local treats—making it a perfect spot to rest while exploring. The centre also offers seamless connections via pedestrian bridges to neighbouring landmarks like Myer, David Jones, and Melbourne Central, so you can enjoy an uninterrupted shopping journey through the city’s fashion precinct.

There are so many stores that I was very overwhelmed. I bought stationary from the Muji store, Uggs from the Ugg Store, and clothes from Kookai (honestly my favourite store in Australia, the pieces are sooooo cute!!).

11. Discover the nightlife in Melbourne

Melbourne’s nightlife is fun, diverse, and full of energy. As the sun goes down, the city comes alive with rooftop bars, hidden laneway pubs, live music venues, and buzzing nightclubs. You can listen to local bands, dance to DJs, or just relax with a drink and enjoy the city lights. There’s something for everyone—whether you like quiet wine bars or late-night parties. The friendly atmosphere and variety of places make Melbourne a great city to explore after dark.

Some places that I went to that I recommend:

• Mango Club. They have 5 rooms with different styles of music in each. There is a 30 AUD entry fee.
• Revolver Upstairs. THE place for techno music. There is a 40 AUD entry fee. The space is nice, but I found there to be a lot of men that made me uncomfortable…
• Section 8. The set up is nice because it’s outdoor, and it’s a mix of a casual space made with wood, but that is also classy. Entry is free.
• The Albion Rooftop. We went on a Friday, which is when they play latin music. Entry is free.

12. Discover the restaurants around China town

Melbourne’s Chinatown, nestled along Little Bourke Street, is a vibrant culinary haven offering a delightful mix of traditional and modern Asian dining experiences. Melbourne is very multicultural, and there is a big population of asian people, making it a great place for authentic asian cuisine.

I craved dumplings, so I went to Camy Shanghai Dumpling House and Shanghai Village which were very delicious. But whether you’re craving dumplings, hot pots, or traditional banquets, Chinatown’s diverse eateries promise a memorable dining adventure.

13. Observe the penguins at St Kilda Pier

St Kilda Pier, located just 6 km south of Melbourne’s city centre, is home to a charming colony of Little Penguins. These small, nocturnal seabirds return ashore at dusk after a day of fishing in Port Phillip Bay. Visitors can observe them from the breakwater and the newly constructed viewing boardwalk, which is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. To protect the penguins, the boardwalk is closed in the evenings, and visitors are advised to maintain a minimum distance of 3 metres, avoid flash photography, and stay on designated paths. The penguin colony is managed by Earthcare St Kilda, a dedicated not-for-profit organization focused on research, monitoring, and protection of this urban wildlife population.

For a more immersive experience, consider booking a sunset penguin cruise with St Kilda Ferries. These cruises offer a unique vantage point to witness the penguins’ return to shore. The cruises run every day except Tuesday, providing a reliable option for penguin viewing.

14. Watch the sunset from Point Ormond

Point Ormond Lookout in Elwood is a hidden gem for watching Melbourne’s sunsets. Situated just 6 km south of the city centre, this elevated spot offers panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline and Port Phillip Bay. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, providing a perfect backdrop for photos. 

The area is popular among locals for walking, cycling, and picnicking, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the evening. The day I went to Point Ormond Lookout for sunset, I walked from the Brighting Bathing Boxes to Point Ormond Lookout, and the walk was so dreamy and peaceful. I recommend walking or cycling that route if you are physically capable!

15. Visit the Fitzroy Garden

Fitzroy Gardens, located just east of Melbourne’s city centre, is a serene 26-hectare park that offers a peaceful retreat with its tree-lined avenues, expansive lawns, and charming features. Visitors can explore the historic Cook’s Cottage, stroll past the whimsical Fairies’ Tree, admire the intricate model Tudor village, and relax by the ornamental lake. The gardens also house a conservatory showcasing seasonal blooms, a rotunda, fountains, and sculptures, making it a delightful spot for both relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk, Fitzroy Gardens provides a picturesque setting to unwind in the heart of Melbourne.

16. Walk around the Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne offer a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. Spanning 38 hectares along the Yarra River, the gardens are home to over 8,500 plant species from around the world. Visitors can explore themed areas like the Arid Garden, Fern Gully, and the Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden, each showcasing unique flora and landscapes. 

The gardens also feature the historic Guilfoyle’s Volcano, a water recycling system designed in the 19th century. For a leisurely experience, guests can enjoy a punt ride on the Ornamental Lake or participate in free guided walks led by knowledgeable staff. The gardens are open daily from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM, offering a serene setting for relaxation and exploration.

17. Admire the street art at Hozier Lane

Hosier Lane in Melbourne is a vibrant, ever-changing canvas that showcases the city’s dynamic street art scene. Located just off Flinders Street, this laneway is adorned with colorful murals, stencils, and graffiti created by both local and international artists. The artworks cover every inch of the walls, making it a popular spot for photography and a must-visit for art enthusiasts. 

What makes Hosier Lane unique is its status as a “free-to-paint” area, allowing artists to express themselves freely, which contributes to the lane’s constantly evolving appearance. It was really interesting because I didn’t know that while visiting Hozier Lane for the first time, but when I visited it for the second time during a free walking tour that I booked, the tour guide mentioned that, and I also noticed that the art was very different! So it’s definitely worth it to come back if you have to time to see the changing art.

18. Spend a rainy day at the National Gallery of Victoria

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) in Melbourne is Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum, offering a rich tapestry of art and culture. Visitors can explore a diverse range of collections, from European masterpieces and Asian art to Indigenous and contemporary Australian works. The gallery regularly hosts special exhibitions, educational programs, and events, making it a dynamic cultural hub. 

Admission to the permanent collections is free, allowing everyone to experience the beauty and depth of art without barriers. There are also sections that have a paid entry. I only went to the free areas, and they were all super beautiful.

19. Explore the culinary scene in Melbourne

Melbourne’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, offering food from all around the world. Whether you want tasty street food, cozy cafés, fine dining, or multicultural dishes, the city has it all. You can enjoy fresh local produce, amazing coffee, and creative menus made by talented chefs. From trendy laneway eateries to big markets and elegant restaurants, Melbourne is a food lover’s paradise where every meal is an adventure.

Here are some of my recommendations for food:

• Pastries: Bread Club, Lune Croissanterie (Fitzroy or CBD), Agathé Pâtisserie
• Brunch: Higher Ground, Brick Lane Melbourne
• Lunch/supper: Soi 38 (amazing Thai food), + 39 Pizzeria

20. Visit the Flinders Street Station

Flinders Street Station is one of Melbourne’s most famous landmarks and a busy meeting spot right in the city center. With its beautiful old-fashioned architecture and big clocks, it’s easy to recognize and loved by locals and visitors alike. The station connects many train lines, making it a key hub for getting around Melbourne. It’s not just a place to catch a train—it’s also a popular spot to hang out, take photos, and feel the city’s lively energy.

21. Eat frozen yogurt at Yo-Chi

Yo-Chi is a popular frozen yogurt shop in Melbourne known for its creamy, tasty treats and healthy options. You can choose from a variety of yogurt flavors and add lots of fresh fruits, nuts, and fun toppings to make your perfect dessert. It’s a great spot to cool down on a warm day or enjoy a guilt-free sweet treat while exploring the city. Friendly staff and a bright, casual atmosphere make Yo-Chi a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Just be mindful because they charge by the weight of the unit, so make sure to be aware of the amount of substance you are putting in your bowl because it can be easy to get carried away. The bowl that I had above, with the final product having a few more toppings, cost me around 9 AUD.

22. Road trip along the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most beautiful drives, stretching along the stunning coastline of Victoria near Melbourne. This scenic route offers breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and forests, with famous sights like the Twelve Apostles—tall limestone rock formations rising from the sea. Along the way, you can stop at charming seaside towns, beaches, and rainforests. It’s a perfect trip for nature lovers and anyone wanting to experience Australia’s amazing coastal beauty.

This was probably one of the favourite things I did while in Melbourne (and it’s not even technically in Melbourne lol). The views are insanely gorgeous. If I was comfortable driving on the left side, I would of definitely rented a car and taken maybe 3 days to drive the whole Great Ocean Road, and take my time to stop and camp along the way.

23. Stroll around with kangaroos at Westerfolds Park

Westerfolds Park, nestled beside the Yarra River in Templestowe, offers over 120 hectares of natural beauty and recreational activities just 20 km northeast of Melbourne’s city center. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring more than 5 km of sealed trails ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot Eastern Grey Kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, and a variety of birds, including the rare Swift Parrot.

I went to Westerfolds Park because I was told that there were a lot of kangaroos roaming around the park. And I was surprised to see so many! They usually are all grouped together, so whenever I saw one, I would see around fifteen more. Make sure to respect their space because they can also get agressive, although I didn’t have any problems during my experience.