Many visitors to Australia choose to spend their time in Sydney, but with so much going on in the southern capital of Melbourne, it’s well worth breaking away from the norm. Some would even say that there’s, even more, to see and do in Melbourne! And with not a surf beach insight, you have plenty of time to visit all of the city’s fantastic museums, food markets, art galleries and sports venues. These are my top 10 things to do in Melbourne.
Top 10 things to do in Melbourne
Come and discover just why Melbourne boasts a reputation as a fantastic cultural city with our guide to its top sights and attractions.
National Sports Museum
It’s a well-known fact that Australians love their sport, and its newest attraction at Melbourne Cricket Ground celebrates this national obsession. Here you can see Ian Thorpe’s swimming trunks, a hologram of Shane Warne and an impressive collection of 3,500 pieces of sporting memorabilia.
Cook’s Cottage
Dating back to 1755, this parental home of the celebrated navigator Captain James Cook was transported from Yorkshire to Fitzroy Gardens in 1933.
Old Melbourne Gaol
Famous as being the place where infamous bushranger Ned Kelly was hanged, this former prison is a great place to visit for anyone who likes a scare, and you can even see the trapdoor where Kelly once stood before his execution in 1880.
Hidden Secrets Tour
Taking visitors into a labyrinth of alleyways in the heart of old Melbourne, the multi-award-winning Hidden Secrets Tour is a great way to see an alternative side of the city. This three hour escorted tour will take you to visit obscure buildings and some of the city’s more obscure and quirky stores and suppliers.
Melbourne Museum
Melbourne Museum is the largest museum complex in the southern hemisphere and is dedicated to the Australian culture and way of life, as well as its unique flora and fauna. Some of the most popular exhibits include champion racehorse Phar Lap and the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Containing some 12,000 species of plant, The Royal Botanic Gardens were established in 1846 and provide a fascinating glimpse into the city’s genteel past. The gardens are also home to the Shrine of Remembrance, dedicated to the Australian men and women who served during the First World War. Ideal for travellers on a budget, the gardens are free to enter. Looking at flights to Melbourne on cheapflights.com.au can save you even more money!
Queen Victoria Market
Operating since 1878, this market is one of the city’s top attractions and is a delight for visitors of all ages. Take a tour of the markets, stop for a coffee or have a chat with one of the markets’ growers or sellers.
Immigration Museum
It might not sound like the most exciting place to visit, but immigration is a crucial part of the history of the country and the city, and this museum tells its colourful story in an interesting and fascinating way. One of the highlights of the museum includes a display of a 55ft replica of a transport ship.
St Kilda’s Beach
St Kilda beach is close to the city of Melbourne and is the seaside playground for city lovers. It has beautiful views of Port Phillip and will keep you entertained all day long if you are outdoors in Melbourne. Whether you hang out at the beach swimming and sunbathing, roll along the Esplanade on bikes, or go to enjoy the food, St Kilda beach is the perfect trip.
Melbourne Farmers Markets
Melbourne has a plethora of farmers’ markets located in various suburbs throughout the city. They are the best place to pick up fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and local artisan products.
