20 Best Things to Do in Melbourne: Top Attractions & Hidden Gems

Melbourne, often dubbed Australia’s cultural capital, is a vibrant city brimming with life, color, and a unique blend of modern sophistication and old-world charm. From its eclectic laneways and trendy cafés to world-renowned art galleries and scenic parks, Melbourne offers a delightful experience for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking for free things to do in Melbourne, cultural indulgence, or hidden local treasures, this detailed guide has it all. 

1. Admire Federation Square

The centre of Melbourne’s civic and political life, Federation Square is known for its intriguing architecture, varied exhibits and lively events. It is one of the most exciting places to visit in Melbourne. When you are here, make sure you visit the Australian Centre and see the Moving Image (ACMI). Just let yourself loose in the vibrant atmosphere of this place.

2. Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens

A peaceful green oasis offering a retreat away from the stressful and fast-paced city life, these gardens cover an area of over 38 hectares and have thousands of plant species, lakes and walking trails. It is one of the most amazing free things to do in Melbourne especially for nature lovers. 

3. Walk Through Melbourne’s Famous Laneways

Behind Melbourne’s busy streets are its famous laneways. These populars lanes like Hosier Lane and Degraves Street are known for their classic street art, indie boutiques and cozy cafes. For those who love urban vibes and enigmatic places, this is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Melbourne.

4. Discover National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

The oldest and most popular art museum in Australia, the NGV has an amazing collection of artworks from Australia and around the world. You can explore the permanent collection for free which makes this one of the most exciting free things to do in Melbourne.

5. Hop on City Circle Tram for a scenic ride

This is a heritage tram that circles around the central business district and stops at some of the most famous sightseeing places in Australia. There’s an informative commentary that will tell you about the major attractions that the tram will stop at for you to explore. This is definitely one of the most fun free things to do in Melbourne.

6. Visit The Melbourne Museum

Nestled in the beautiful Carlton Gardens, the Melbourne Museum is a unique place that houses the treasures of history, science, and culture. The major highlights at the museum are the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre and the famous Phar Lap exhibit.

7. Go to the Queen Victoria Market

A visit to Melbourne is not complete without exploring the Queen Victoria Market. This is an open-air market and offers fresh produce and handmade crafts. You can also visit its night markets if you do not have time during the day. This exotic market is definitely one of the most vibrant places to visit in Melbourne throughout the year.

8. Soak in the Views from the Eureka Skydeck

If you are someone who loves breathtaking panoramic views of beautiful cities,head up to the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower for stunning views of the city of Melbourne. “The Edge” which is known as the glass cube experience offers picturesque views of the city below. 

9. Relax at St Kilda Beach

Watch a scenic sunset, look at penguins at the pier or just unwind on the sandy shore at St Kilda Beach which is an exotic coastal retreat away from the city’s bustling life. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Melbourne, especially in summer.

10. Catch the Sun at Brighton Beach

Known for its colourful bathing boxes, Brighton Beach is not just a scenic coastal escape, it is also a great place to relax and take in the beautiful views of the ocean. It is one of the most amazing coastal places to visit in Melbourne.

11. Visit the State Library of Victoria

Known for the architectural marvel that it is, this is an historic library which is free to explore. It has beautiful rooms for reading, exhibitions and events. Visiting and exploring this place is one of the most soulful free things to do in Melbourne for those who have a love for books and history. 

12. Sip Coffee in Melbourne’s Best Cafés

Melbourne is known across the world for its coffee culture. There are locales like Proud Mary, Market Lane, or Patricia Coffee Brewers that offer some of the most aromatic brews. for the best brews. Discovering the coffee culture of this city is one of the best parts of experiencing places to visit in Melbourne especially for coffee lovers.

13. Look at the Street Art in Fitzroy

The spirit of Melbourne’s hipster side, Fitzroy has some of the most amazing art galleries, vintage shops and murals. It is a chic, alternative area that is worth your time and a great place for those who want to explore free things to do in Melbourne that offer a creative twist.

14. Watch a Game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

Whether you love cricket or AFL, the MCG is a land that is worshipped by sport enthusiasts. There are tours that you can take. Make sure you visit the National Sports Museum that is attached to the ground. 

15. Watch a Show at the Arts Centre Melbourne

From stunning ballet to broadway-style musicals, this arts centre hosts spectacular shows at the beautiful riverside. Even if you can catch a show, just admiring the architecture would be a worthwhile experience if you want to explore free things to do in Melbourne close to the city centre.

16. A Day Trip to the Yarra Valley

An hour from Melbourne is the famous Yarra Valley known for its exotic wineries, gourmet food and breathtaking views. You can book a wine tour or drive yourself through its beautiful countryside and soak in the beauty of nature in its unfiltered prime. 

17. Visit the Shrine of Remembrance

This shrine was built in honour of the Australian service members and is not only a ceremonial monument but also a place that offers stunning expansive views of Melbourne. The entry to this magnificent monument is free which makes it one of the most informative and meaningful free things to do in Melbourne.

18. Explore the Docklands

This is a waterfront area and has exquisite shops, various avenues for entertainment, and the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel. It is a new place but is growing rapidly, and is definitely one of the liveliest places to visit in Melbourne that has a fun thing to do or explore for every touristy soul. 

19. Experience Chinatown Melbourne

This is one of the oldest Chinatowns in the world. If you want to taste Melbourne’s authentic cuisine, discover its nightlife scene and experience its traditional charm, head to this vibrant district where you can also explore the Chinese Museum. If you want to enjoy the vibes of a unique cultural place, this is one of the best places to visit in Melbourne for this experience. 

20. Explore Albert Park and Lake

A great place for basking in the midst of nature, here you can jog, cycle or just relax. This park has a spectacular lake, open green areas and is overall an amazing place for those who are looking for free things to do in Melbourne where they can just unwind in the fresh air and enjoy nature.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne is a fast-paced and diverse city that offers a unique blend of art, culture, nature and a modern way of life. Whether you are visiting the city on a business trip or for a vacation, you will find a plethora of activities to do here. There are world class galleries, vibrant markets, peaceful parks and chic neighbourhoods. All in all, places to visit in Melbourne have something for everyone. What is even more exciting is that many of these things are absolutely free. So if you are budget-conscious, you will get a lot of free things to do in Melbourne without losing out on experience or value. So don’t think much! Pack your bags and get ready to enjoy the bestthings to do in Melbourne.