7 Awesome Places in Melbourne You Have to Visit

Melbourne. Known for its vibrant arts scene, laneway cafes, world-class dining, and passionate sports fans, this Australian city has something to offer everyone. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Melbourne is a city that begs to be explored. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture vulture, or simply looking for a good time, this list of seven awesome places is your guide to experiencing Melbourne’s best. Get ready to discover why Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world’s most livable cities!

While Melbourne’s public transport is excellent, consider a car rental in Melbourne if you plan on exploring beyond the city center, visiting the surrounding regions like the Yarra Valley, or simply prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle.

1. Iconic Landmarks: Where History Meets Modern Marvels

• Flinders Street Station

  • The Heart of Melbourne: This iconic landmark, with its distinctive yellow facade, grand clock tower, and bustling atmosphere, is a Melbourne must-see. More than just a transport hub, Flinders Street Station is a symbol of the city itself.
  • Snap a Photo: Capture photos of its grandeur from across the street or soak in the lively energy as commuters rush by.
  • People-Watch: Grab a coffee from one of the cafes inside and simply watch the world go by. It’s a perfect starting point for exploring the city.

• Federation Square

  • A Hub of Culture: Located opposite Flinders Street Station, Federation Square is a modern public space that hosts a variety of events, festivals, and exhibitions throughout the year.
  • Explore the Architecture: Admire the unique architecture of the buildings surrounding the square, including the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia and the ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image).
  • Attend an Event: Check the Federation Square website for upcoming events and festivals.

• Shrine of Remembrance

  • A Place of Reflection: This imposing war memorial is a tribute to the men and women who served in World War I and other conflicts.
  • Reflect on History: Take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served.
  • Enjoy Panoramic Views: Climb to the top of the Shrine for panoramic views of the city skyline.

2. Laneway Culture: Hidden Gems and Street Art

• Hosier Lane

  • A Canvas of Urban Art: This iconic laneway is a riot of color and creativity, with its walls covered in ever-changing street art.
  • Wander and Discover: Wander through the laneway and discover new works of art around every corner.
  • Capture the Moment: Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of the street art.

• Degraves Street

  • A Foodie Paradise: This charming laneway is lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it the perfect place to grab a coffee or a bite to eat.
  • Enjoy a Coffee: Sit at one of the outdoor tables and soak in the atmosphere of this bustling laneway.
  • Sample Local Cuisine: Try some of the delicious food on offer, from Italian pasta to Vietnamese pho.

• AC/DC Lane

  • A Tribute to Rock and Roll: This laneway is a tribute to the legendary Australian rock band AC/DC, with its walls covered in graffiti and posters.
  • Rock Out: Take a photo with the AC/DC sign and soak in the rock and roll atmosphere.
  • Explore the Surrounding Bars: Check out the bars and pubs in the surrounding area, many of which play live music.

3. World-Class Dining: A Culinary Adventure

• Melbourne’s Restaurants

  • A Melting Pot of Flavors: Melbourne is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants offering cuisines from all over the world.
  • Fine Dining: Indulge in a fine dining experience at one of Melbourne’s many award-winning restaurants.
  • Casual Eats: Enjoy a casual meal at a cafe, bistro, or food truck.

• Queen Victoria Market

  • A Foodie’s Dream: This historic market is a great place to sample local produce, gourmet cheeses, and international delicacies.
  • Explore the Stalls: Wander through the market and discover new and exciting foods.
  • Grab a Bite: Enjoy a meal at one of the many food stalls or cafes in the market.

• Lygon Street

  • Melbourne’s Little Italy: This vibrant street is home to a large Italian community, with many authentic Italian restaurants and cafes.
  • Taste Authentic Italian Cuisine: Enjoy a delicious pasta dish or pizza at one of the many Italian restaurants on Lygon Street.
  • Gelato Time: Don’t forget to grab a scoop of gelato for dessert!

4. Arts and Culture: A Creative Hub

• National Gallery of Victoria (NGV):

  • This world-renowned art museum houses a vast collection of artworks from Australia and around the world.
  • Explore the Collections: Wander through the galleries and admire the diverse range of artworks on display.
  • Attend an Exhibition: Check the NGV website for upcoming exhibitions and events.

• Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI):

  • This museum is dedicated to the moving image, with exhibitions and screenings of films, television shows, and video games.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Explore the interactive exhibits and learn about the history of film and television.
  • Catch a Screening: Watch a classic film or attend a film festival at the ACMI cinema.

• Melbourne Theatre Company (MTC):

  • This leading theatre company stages a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.
  • See a Show: Book tickets to a performance and experience the magic of live theatre.
  • Support Local Theatre: Support local artists and contribute to Melbourne’s vibrant theatre scene.

5. Sporting Capital: A Passion for the Game

• Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG):

  • This iconic stadium is one of the largest cricket grounds in the world and a must-visit for sports fans.
  • Take a Tour: Take a tour of the MCG and learn about its rich history.
  • Attend a Match: If you’re lucky enough to be in Melbourne during cricket season, attend a match and experience the electric atmosphere.

• Rod Laver Arena

  • Home of the Australian Open: This tennis stadium is home to the Australian Open Grand Slam tournament, held every January.
  • Take a Tour: Take a tour of Rod Laver Arena and learn about its history and the tennis stars who have played there.
  • Attend the Australian Open: If you’re a tennis fan, attending the Australian Open is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Flemington Racecourse

  • Where the Melbourne Cup is Won: This famous racecourse is home to the Melbourne Cup, one of the most prestigious horse races in the world.
  • Take a Tour: Take a tour of Flemington Racecourse and learn about its history and the Melbourne Cup.
  • Attend the Melbourne Cup: If you’re in Melbourne during the spring racing carnival, attending the Melbourne Cup is a must-do.

6. Parks and Gardens: Escape to Nature

• Royal Botanic Gardens

  • A Tranquil Oasis: These beautiful gardens are a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • Explore the Gardens: Wander through the various themed gardens, including the rose garden, the cactus garden, and the fern gully.
  • Enjoy a Picnic: Pack a picnic lunch and relax by the lake or under a shady tree.

• Fitzroy Gardens

  • A Victorian-Era Gem: These historic gardens are home to Captain Cook’s Cottage, a charming cottage that was brought to Melbourne from England.
  • Visit Captain Cook’s Cottage: Take a tour of the cottage and learn about its history.
  • Explore the Gardens: Wander through the gardens and admire the beautiful flower beds and sculptures.

• Yarra Park

  • A Green Space by the River: This large park is located on the banks of the Yarra River and is a popular spot for picnics, walks, and bike rides.
  • Enjoy a Walk or Bike Ride: Take a stroll or bike ride along the Yarra River Trail.
  • Have a Picnic: Find a shady spot in the park and enjoy a picnic lunch.

7. Day Trips: Explore Beyond the City

• Great Ocean Road

  • A Scenic Coastal Drive: This iconic road trip is a must-do for any visitor to Melbourne, with its stunning coastal scenery and dramatic cliffs.
  • Rent a Car: Rent a car in Melbourne and embark on this unforgettable road trip.
  • Stop at Scenic Lookouts: Stop at the many scenic lookouts along the way to capture photos of the breathtaking views.

• Yarra Valley

  • Wine Country: This region is home to many world-class wineries, offering visitors the opportunity to sample delicious wines and enjoy stunning vineyard views.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit some of the wineries in the Yarra Valley and sample their award-winning wines.

• Dandenong Ranges

  • A Mountain Escape: These lush mountain ranges are a great place to escape the city and enjoy fresh air, scenic walks, and charming villages.
  • Go Hiking: Explore the many hiking trails in the Dandenong Ranges and discover hidden waterfalls and fern gullies.
  • Visit a Village: Explore the charming villages of Olinda, Sassafras, and Mount Dandenong, with their quaint shops and cafes.

Bonus Tip: Embrace the Local Vibe

• Capture Candid Moments: Capture the essence of Melbourne by capturing candid moments of everyday life, such as people enjoying coffee at a cafe, locals strolling through a park, or street performers entertaining crowds. These authentic moments will bring your travel photos to life and tell the story of your Melbourne experience.
• Strike Up a Conversation: Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals. Melburnians are generally friendly and welcoming, and they can offer valuable insights into the city’s hidden gems and best-kept secrets.
• Attend a Local Event: Check out local events calendars and attend a festival, market, or sporting event to experience Melbourne’s vibrant culture firsthand.
• Explore Different Neighborhoods: Melbourne is made up of diverse and distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Take the time to explore different areas, from the trendy streets of Fitzroy to the bohemian vibes of Brunswick.
• Embrace the Coffee Culture: Melbourne is renowned for its exceptional coffee, so be sure to indulge in the city’s thriving cafe scene. Try different brews and explore the many unique cafes tucked away in laneways and side streets.

This list offers a taste of the many amazing experiences Melbourne has to offer. From its vibrant city life to its stunning natural beauty, Melbourne is a city that will capture your heart and leave you wanting more. So, start planning your trip and get ready to discover the magic of Melbourne!

Conclusion: Your Melbourne Adventure Awaits

Melbourne is a city that truly has it all. From its iconic landmarks and hidden laneways to its world-class dining, thriving arts scene, and passionate sporting culture, there’s something to captivate every traveler. Whether you’re exploring the bustling city center, venturing out on scenic day trips, or simply soaking up the unique atmosphere of its diverse neighborhoods, Melbourne promises an unforgettable experience. This guide has provided you with a starting point for your Melbourne adventure, highlighting some of the must-see attractions and hidden gems. But the real magic of Melbourne lies in discovering its unique character for yourself. So, pack your bags, embrace the local vibe, and get ready to create your own cherished memories in this dynamic and captivating city. Your Melbourne adventure awaits!

Car Rentals Melbourne: Book Your Melbourne Adventure

While Melbourne’s public transport system is extensive and efficient, a car rental in Melbourne offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, especially if you plan on exploring beyond the city center. Having your own vehicle allows you to easily access scenic drives like the Great Ocean Road, venture into wine regions such as the Yarra Valley, or discover the charming towns of the Dandenong Ranges at your own pace. A car rental also simplifies getting around with luggage and can be particularly convenient for families or groups. Ready to explore Melbourne and its surrounding areas on your own terms? Book your Melbourne Airport car rental today with Alpha Car Hire and unlock the full potential of your Victorian adventure.