Guide to Melbourne
Aboriginal name: Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)
Melbourne is Australia's mecca for all things trendy and tasty. With exquisite dining, exhilarating sport and abundant art experiences, there are plenty of brilliant things to do in Melbourne.
A perfect blend of rich cultural history and new age trends is waiting for you in Melbourne. As the sun goes down, the city comes to life with a vibrant dining scene as well as events and exhibitions. Explore its bustling laneways, trendy neighbourhoods and sophisticated foodie scene to get a taste of what Melbourne is all about.
Top things to do in Melbourne
Wander through Melbourne’s laneways
Lose yourself in a wonderland of colourful street art, al fresco cafes, intimate wine bars, and quirky boutiques – you never know what you’ll find just around the corner. Discover all the hidden secrets of Melbourne’s laneways.
Explore a vibrant arts and culture scene
Melbourne’s arts and culture scene is jam-packed with international and local exhibitions and shows. Visit Australia’s oldest gallery and catch a musical at one of the many theatres. Find out why Melbourne is the culture capital of Australia.
Shop the markets
From emerging local designers and international brands to boutique-lined shopping strips and vintage markets, Melbourne is a shopper’s mecca. Find out where to shop for eclectic Melbourne style, one-of-a-kind creations and bargain finds.
Discover the city’s Aboriginal culture
Melbourne is a melting pot of cultures and characters. Hear the stories of the local Aboriginal community, the Kulin nation, and learn about their history and culture through guided tours and taste native ingredients.
Seek out Melbourne’s secret spots
There’s always something new to discover in Melbourne. Laneway haunts, bustling markets and Aboriginal art installations all contribute to Melbourne’s dynamic vibe. These hidden gems will show you a different side of Melbourne.
Find fun for all ages
Melbourne is bursting with attractions for all ages. Head to a buzzing sports match, visit an open range zoo and visit museum exhibitions made for young minds. Here are the best places to eat, stay and play on a family holiday in Melbourne.
Tune into the live music scene
Melbourne’s live music scene is always thriving with a vibrant mix of genres and talent. From concert halls and jazz basements across the city, to pubs and warehouses in neighbourhoods, there’s a gig on almost every corner.
Take a day trip
Within an hour or two from inner Melbourne, you can be exploring renowned wineries, charming seaside towns, natural hot springs, unique wildlife and much more. Leave the city behind and hit the wide-open road.
See what’s on in Federation Square
As the city’s main culture and entertainment hub, Federation Square is where it all happens. Explore galleries, pop-up, bars, special events, cultural exhibitions and a plethora of shopping and dining, all at Fed Square.
Be a fan at a sporting match
From high-speed car races and high-energy footy games, to the Australian Open tennis and the glamorous Melbourne Cup, Melbourne’s sports calendar is brimming with activity all year long. Find out where the action is and get amongst it.
Seek out the sand
Dotted around Port Philip Bay, Melbourne’s beaches are calm and sheltered, making them ideal for swimming. Each bay and beach has its own unique quirk – from colourful bathing boxes to resident penguins. It's the perfect way to escape the city.

3 days in Melbourne
Plan a trip to Melbourne

Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne On Spencer
Hotels • Swimming Pool • 5 Stars
Accommodation
From AU$220 to AU$550

Melbourne Marriott Hotel
Hotels • Swimming Pool • 5 Stars
Accommodation
From AU$229 to AU$800

The Langham Melbourne
Hotels • Gym • 5 Stars
Accommodation
From AU$280 to AU$810

The Hotel Windsor
Hotels • Bar • 5 Stars
Accommodation
From AU$229 to AU$1350

Brady Hotels Jones Lane
Hotels • Gym • 4 1/2 Stars
Accommodation
From AU$189 to AU$499

Next Hotel Melbourne a Curio Collection by Hilton
Hotels • Gym • 4 1/2 Stars
Accommodation
From AU$270 to AU$870

Lakeside Cottage
Apartments, Bed and Breakfast, Cottages • Spa/Sauna • 4 1/2 Stars
Accommodation
From AU$390 to AU$490

Werribee Park Motor Inn
Motels • Swimming Pool • 3 1/2 Stars
Accommodation
From AU$145 to AU$225

Pullman Melbourne on the Park
Hotels • Swimming Pool
Accommodation
From AU$329 to AU$699

Avani Melbourne Central Residences
Apartments
Accommodation
From AU$149 to AU$1200