Whether you’re new to Melbourne or a longtime local, there are some must-do activities you can’t miss. Melbourne city is home to some of the world’s top food, drink, coffee, art, theatre, and sports scenes. 

We believe you should experience each of these at least once in your lifetime. So, here we go! We created a list of the best things to do in Melbourne Australia including top Melbourne tourist attractions.

Top Things to do in Melbourne Australia

1. Watch the magnificent sunrise from a hot air balloon

No list of the top things to do in Melbourne, Australia, would be complete without including a mesmerizing hot air balloon tour around the city.

Seeing the stunning Melbourne sunrise from a hot air balloon is a one-of-a-kind experience. Melbourne is the only major city where you can take a commercial hot air balloon ride. 

Depending on the wind, you can float over the city or its suburbs, creating unforgettable memories. For the best experience, pick the right ballooning tour. Global Ballooning Australia is the biggest tour operator in Victoria, offering award-winning sunrise hot air balloon flights over Melbourne, the charming Yarra Valley, and scenic Mansfield. 

It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the tranquility of floating in the sky while soaking in the beauty of Melbourne’s sunrise. For  more information refer to Global Ballooning Australia’s website: Click here

2.Pay respect to the late Australian Soldiers at the Shrine of Remembrance

Don’t forget to visit the Shrine of Remembrance , one of the top Melbourne tourist attractions, when you’re in Melbourne. It’s a special war memorial dedicated to all Australian soldiers, no matter which war they fought in. Many people gather here for the Dawn Service on ANZAC Day. 

While some visitors only explore the outside, the inside is worth seeing too. Start by spending some time in the lovely gardens, especially at the Eternal Flame and the Lone Pine tree from Gallipoli. Inside, you can see the Gallery of Remembrance, which has lots of war medals, artifacts, and stories.

And even if you’re not into war history, it’s worth going inside to check out the views from the balcony. You can see all the way down Swanston Street into the city.

3.Take a Day Trip to Yarra Valley

If you are looking for cool things to do in Melbourne Australia, here is a cool idea for you.Why not take a day trip to Yarra Valley, Victoria’s top wine region? 

Yarra Valley is a stunning area with rolling green hills, vineyards, and charming farmhouses, all less than an hour’s drive from the CBD. A visit here promises to be a highlight of your time in Australia, thanks to its picturesque landscapes, wildlife, and delicious artisan foods. 

While wine tasting is a popular activity, Yarra Valley is also known for its dairy farming, making it a cheese and wine lover’s paradise. Stop by Yarra Valley Dairy for a coffee and some tasty treats to kickstart your day. On weekends, you can explore the cellar doors of famous wineries, with their restaurants becoming sought-after dining spots. And don’t forget to try free tastings at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterieand Ice Creamery—it’s a must!

4.Ride a Tram around Melbourne

Don’t miss out on riding a tram around Melbourne—it’s an essential experience! Many visitors have never even seen a tram, let alone ridden on one. 

Melbourne’s tram network is extensive, and the best part is that a significant portion of it is free within the city. Why should you hop on? Well, the tram network extends from the city center, making it the easiest mode of transport for getting around the CBD or exploring the inner suburbs. 

If you plan to use public transport outside of the free tram zone, you’ll need to get a myki card. You can purchase one at various locations like retail outlets, visitor centers, or train stations. Just load some money onto your myki card to cover your fares, and you’re good to go! 

You can top it up at convenience stores or train stations whenever your balance runs low.

Hop on the City Circle Tram to visit several attractions, including Federation Square and the Melbourne Gaol, all while enjoying a unique experience. 

Relax in a vintage Melbourne tram and listen to the commentary that provides fascinating insights into the sites you pass, delving into local history along the way. 

5.Experience a sleepover at Melbourne Zoo

Experience a one-of-a-kind adventure with a sleepover at Melbourne Zoo. Join the Roar ‘n’ Snore camping experience for an unforgettable night of feasting, snoozing, and exploring the zoo after dark. 

Dine with friends and family, then join a nighttime journey through the zoo, listening to captivating wild animal stories from your hosts. Afterward, retreat to your private tent for a cozy night surrounded by wildlife.

Wake up to a delicious breakfast before setting off on an exclusive morning guided tour. Then, spend the rest of the day exploring the zoo at your leisure. You can also join your hosts to learn about Melbourne Zoo’s remarkable 160-year journey from a zoo to a world-leading conservation organization.

Melbourne Zoo provides tents, camping mattresses, dinner, supper, breakfast, and admission to the zoo the following day. All you need to bring is your sleeping bag, pillow, and a sense of adventure. 

Looking for a unique gift idea? Zoos Victoria gift cards are available, so give the gift of an unforgettable experience. Contact 1300 966 784 to order yours now. For more information: Click here

6.Punting on the Royal Botanic Garden’s Ornamental Lake

Discover a hidden gem in Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens: punting on the Ornamental Lake. 

Did you know you can rent a boat and float away in the heart of this beautiful garden? Punting on the Lake offers a guided tour where you can relax in a wooden punt and enjoy a unique perspective of one of the world’s finest gardens. As you glide along, a professional punter will share fascinating insights into the garden’s history, environment, wildlife, and plants.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion like a birthday, enjoying a romantic outing, spending time with family, or catching up with friends, punting on the lake promises to be an unforgettable experience. Hence it is one of the best things to do in Melbourne Australia.

Duration: 30 Minutes

Price: From AUD $75.00

For more information: Click here

7.Rent your own boat to explore Yarra River from GoBoat.

Take charge of your own aquatic adventure with GoBoat’s picnic boat rentals—no boat license required. 

These eco-friendly boats feature quiet, non-polluting electric motors and are crafted from recycled plastic bottles. With room for up to eight people, including your furry friends, it’s a family-friendly and dog-friendly experience.

GoBoat prides itself on its eco-friendly practices, ensuring your journey is not only enjoyable but also environmentally friendly. Powered by whisper-quiet electric motors and constructed from recycled materials, you can relax knowing you’re exploring the waters in a sustainable manner.

Choose from the following rental options:

1 Hour ($129): Cruise past Melbourne Park to Richmond and back, or head towards Docklands and turn around before reaching the Bolte Bridge.

2 Hours ($199): Explore all of Melbourne from Banana Alley, visit Docklands, or turn around at Herring Island in South Yarra.

3 Hours ($289): Take a scenic cruise towards Hawthorn and back, or discover Docklands and the heart of the city at your own pace.

It’s an opportunity to enjoy Melbourne’s waterways on your terms while respecting the environment.

For more information: Click here

8.Enjoy a hike at Dandenong Ranges.

Explore the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges, just a short drive from Melbourne city center. Offering a variety of hiking trails suitable for all abilities, these ranges showcase the Australian bush in all its glory.

Popular trails like the Living Bush Nature Walk (2 miles) and Burkes Lookout (0.3 miles) provide stunning views, with Burkes Lookout offering panoramic vistas from the peak of Mount Kyeema.

Hiking through the ranges offers a chance to test your stamina and mental strength with uphill climbs, typically taking about an hour. As you descend, take your time to appreciate the melodic songs of the lyrebirds and the tranquility of the surroundings.

Beyond hiking, the Dandenong Ranges boast other attractions like the iconic Puffing Billy steam train and the serene Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or peaceful garden strolls, the Dandenong Ranges have something for everyone.

9.Experience fun activities at Luna Park

Experience a day of fun-filled activities at Luna Park, Melbourne’s beloved theme park since 1912. Perfect for families wondering what are the things to do in Melbourne Australia with kids, Luna Park offers a wide range of attractions for both young and old.

Step through the iconic entrance and discover thrilling rides like the pirate ship, giant drop, bumper cars, and kids’ rides, along with classic arcade and carnival games. With an affordable all-you-can-ride pass, you’ll get great value for your money.

Luna Park also boasts the world’s oldest continuously operating rollercoaster. 

While it may not match the scale of modern coasters seen at places like Disney World, this classic wooden ride still delivers exhilarating drops and breathtaking views of the city. It’s a timeless destination for endless fun and unforgettable memories. For more information: Click here

10.Explore Art and Culture at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV).

Discover the rich artistic heritage of Australia at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), the oldest art museum in the country. 

Situated on the picturesque Southbank of the Yarra River, the NGV is a highlight of Melbourne’s vibrant arts scene, offering a diverse collection of over 70,000 works.

Since its establishment in 1861, the gallery has hosted numerous world-class exhibitions featuring renowned artists such as Ai Wei Wei and collaborations with prestigious institutions like New York’s MoMA. 

While exploring the permanent exhibits, visitors can delve into Australian art spanning from the colonial and convict eras to contemporary Aboriginal art from across the country.

In addition to admiring the artworks, guests can participate in educational programs, including classes, lectures, concerts, and independent film screenings, making a visit to the NGV a multifaceted cultural experience.

11.Discover Melbourne’s Rich Heritage at the Melbourne Museum

Explore Melbourne’s rich history and natural surroundings at the Melbourne Museum. 

Learn about the Aboriginal communities that lived along the Yarra River for thousands of years, their heritage, customs, and art at the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Center. Sit in the Deep Listening space to hear stories from Creation to today.

The museum also features permanent and rotating exhibitions showcasing life in the city from the Gold Rush Era through the 20th century. Kids will love the children’s section, providing entertaining and educational experiences for the whole family.

12.Explore Beyond the Books at The State Library of Victoria

Discover more than just books at the State Library, conveniently located across the road from the Melbourne Gaol. While many visitors snap a quick photo from the viewing platform and move on, this grand building offers so much more to explore! Start your journey by heading to the top and working your way down. 

Look for signs directing you to the Dome Galleries when you enter the library. Follow them until you reach the reading room, then hop in one of the lifts and ride it to the top floor. That’s where you’ll find the famous viewpoint, offering stunning vistas of Melbourne.

13.Watch the amazing sunset at St.Kilda beach

St. Kilda is a much-loved beachside suburb in Melbourne, and it’s easy to see why.

With its bohemian vibe and iconic Luna Park, there’s plenty to do here. You can stroll along scenic paths by the sea or hop on a bike and explore. Plus, you’ll find some of Melbourne’s best restaurants, along with quirky bars, cafes, and shops waiting to be discovered.

And let’s not forget about the beaches! Whether you want to relax in the sun, paddle in the water, or catch some waves, St. Kilda has it all. With three main beaches—Catani Gardens Beach (The Garden), Middle Park Beach, and St. Kilda Beach—there’s a spot for everyone to enjoy.

14.Attend a Golf course in Melbourne

Known as the Sporting Capital of the World, Melbourne boasts an impressive array of golf courses. And if you’re up for a short day trip, Victoria offers nearly 400 courses to choose from.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, there’s a course for everyone. Experience the prestige of the world-renowned Royal Melbourne Golf Club, dating back to 1891 and featuring 36 holes—it’s consistently ranked among the best in the world. 

For those seeking a more intimate setting with stunning city views, check out inner-city spots like Yarra Bend and Albert Park. No matter your skill level, Melbourne’s golf scene promises an unforgettable experience.

So there you have it—Melbourne is jam-packed with awesome stuff to do! Whether you’re into exploring cool laneways, trying out top-notch dining spots, or getting your adrenaline pumping with outdoor adventures, this city has it all. We hope the list of things to do in Melbourne in this blog will help you plan your visit to Melbourne City.

And when it’s time to relax, Melbourne’s bar and pub scene is the place to be. For the inside scoop on the best spots to grab a drink, be sure to check out our website, “Top 10 Bars Australia.” Cheers to making memories in Melbourne!