Rating: 🌟 Highly Recommend

I only spent about a week here quite a few years ago so I do need to visit Melbourne again!

But if you're looking for vibrant arts scene, world class coffee, laneway culture, and diverse neighbourhoods surrounded by great food, iconic sporting events, and stunning nearby nature, you will love Melbourne!

 How Many Days to Spend

• Minimum: 3 full days – Explore the city’s highlights, laneways, and museums.

• Ideal: 5–7 days – Add day trips to the Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley, and Mornington Peninsula.

• More time? Use Melbourne as your base to discover Victoria’s beaches, national parks, and food regions.
  

Top Things to Do

• Laneway Art & Cafes – Explore Hosier Lane, Degraves Street, and Centre Place for street art and coffee culture.

• Sports & Events – Catch an AFL game at the MCG or a cricket match in summer.

• Museums & Galleries – National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Museum, and ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image).

• Royal Botanic Gardens – Peaceful green escape in the heart of the city.

• St Kilda Beach & Pier – Sunset views, Luna Park, and penguin spotting.

• Great Ocean Road – Iconic coastal drive with the 12 Apostles, rainforest walks, and beaches.

• Yarra Valley – Wine tastings and gourmet food just outside the city.

• Queen Victoria Market – Bustling market with fresh produce, street food, and souvenirs.
  

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (Sep–Nov): Mild weather and blooming gardens.

• Summer (Dec–Feb): Festival season, warm but sometimes hot and humid.

• Autumn (Mar–May): Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colours.

• Winter (Jun–Aug): Chilly but vibrant café culture and indoor events.
  

Where to Stay

• Budget: Space Hotel, The Village Melbourne

• Mid-range: QT Melbourne, Ovolo Laneways

• Luxury: Crown Towers, The Langham Melbourne

• Unique: Boutique hotels in Fitzroy or converted warehouses in Southbank
  

Where to Eat & Drink

• Higher Ground: Stylish café with brunch classics

• Chin Chin: Modern Thai favourite with a buzzing atmosphere

• Hardware Société: French-inspired brunch spot

• Lune Croissanterie: Renowned for some of the best croissants in the world

• Eau De Vie: Speakeasy-style cocktail bar

• AC/DC Lane: For live music and bar hopping
  

Top Photo Spots

• Hosier Lane street art

• Flinders Street Station exterior

• St Kilda Pier at sunset

• Bright autumn leaves in the Botanic Gardens

• Twelve Apostles on Great Ocean Road

• Queen Victoria Market vibrant stalls
  

Getting Around

• Trams: Free tram zone in the CBD and nearby suburbs

• Train: Connects the city to outer suburbs and regional Victoria

• Bike: Many bike lanes and rental options

• Car: Recommended for day trips outside Melbourne
  

Budget Breakdown (per day)

• Accommodation: $40–$300+ AUD

• Food: $30–$100+ AUD

• Transport: Free tram zone + $10–$20 for day trips

• Activities: Most museums $10–$20, tours $50–$150