The Local Guide to Melbourne: Must-See Places

Melbourne is a vibrant city full of culture, art, cuisine, and entertainment. As the second most populated city in Australia, it’s no wonder why there’s so much to see and do in Melbourne. From the iconic sights to the hidden gems, there’s something for everyone. To help you make the most of your time in Melbourne, we’ve put together a list of the must-see places in the city.

1. Federation Square

Federation Square is one of the most iconic places in Melbourne. Located right in the heart of the city, it’s a vibrant hub of activity. Here, you can find everything from art galleries and museums to cafes and restaurants. There are always interesting events taking place, so it’s worth checking out the website to see what’s on. You can also just wander around and take in the sights.

Federation Square is also home to the famous Polly Woodside sailing ship, a reminder of Melbourne’s maritime history. There’s plenty to explore here, and it’s a great place to start your journey around the city.

Federation Square is also a great place to take a break and watch the world go by. Grab a coffee and relax in one of the many outdoor seating areas. You can also catch a free outdoor movie in the summer months.

2. Queen Victoria Market

Queen Victoria Market is a Melbourne icon. It’s one of the largest open-air markets in the world and has been operating since 1878. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs and gifts. It’s also a great place to pick up a snack or a coffee, or just wander around and soak up the atmosphere.

The Queen Victoria Market is also home to some great street art. There’s a vast array of artworks, from vibrant murals to intricate stencils, which are sure to capture your imagination.

On Wednesday nights, the market comes to life with the Night Market. Here, you can sample some of the city’s best street food, listen to live music, and enjoy the carnival atmosphere.

3. National Gallery of Victoria

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is one of the largest art galleries in Australia. Here, you can explore an impressive collection of art from around the world. The NGV also hosts some fantastic temporary exhibitions, so it’s worth checking out what’s on before you visit.

The NGV is also home to the Ian Potter Centre, which houses an impressive collection of Australian art. Here, you can find artworks from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, as well as art from the colonial and modern eras. There’s something for everyone here.

The NGV also has plenty of activities for all ages. From hands-on workshops to guided tours, there’s something for everyone. So, whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for something to do, the NGV is a great place to visit.

4. Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens is one of the most beautiful places in Melbourne. Spanning over 38 hectares, it’s a lush oasis in the heart of the city. Here, you can wander around the gardens and take in the sights, or simply relax and enjoy a picnic.

The gardens are also home to a variety of wildlife, including kookaburras, cockatoos, and possums. There are plenty of walking trails, so you can explore the gardens at your own pace. You can also join a guided tour to learn more about the plants and wildlife.

The Royal Botanic Gardens is also home to a number of events throughout the year. From music performances to art exhibitions, there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing day out, the Royal Botanic Gardens is the perfect place to visit.

5. Eureka Skydeck

Eureka Skydeck is the highest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere. Located on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower, it offers stunning views of the city skyline. Here, you can take in the sights and get a bird’s eye view of Melbourne.

At Eureka Skydeck, you can also experience the Edge, a thrilling glass cube that extends 3 metres out from the building. It’s the perfect place to take some amazing photos and get your adrenaline pumping!

Eureka Skydeck is also home to the world’s highest outdoor observatory. Here, you can explore the constellations and planets in the night sky, or simply sit back and admire the incredible views.

6. St Kilda Beach

St Kilda Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Melbourne. Located just a short tram ride from the city centre, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Here, you can relax on the sand, take a dip in the ocean, or just watch the world go by.

St Kilda Beach is also home to some great bars and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite to eat or a romantic dinner, there’s something for everyone. The beach is also a great place to catch some live music or watch the sun set over the bay.

St Kilda Beach is also a great place to enjoy some water sports. From kayaking and windsurfing to stand-up paddleboarding, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

7. State Library of Victoria

The State Library of Victoria is one of the oldest libraries in Australia. It’s home to an impressive collection of books, manuscripts, and maps, and it’s a great place to explore the history of Melbourne. Here, you can find everything from ancient books to modern texts.

The State Library of Victoria also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. From book readings and lectures to exhibitions and workshops, there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the State Library of Victoria is the perfect place to visit.

The State Library of Victoria also has some great cafes and restaurants. Here, you can grab a coffee or a bite to eat and relax in the peaceful atmosphere of the library.

8. Melbourne Cricket Ground

The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world. It’s home to some of the biggest sporting events in Australia, including the AFL Grand Final and the Boxing Day Test Match. Here, you can experience the atmosphere of a game in person, or just wander around and explore the stadium.

The MCG also offers a variety of tours and activities. From behind the scenes tours to guided walking tours, there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for an exciting day out, the MCG is the perfect place to visit.

The MCG is also home to some great restaurants and bars. Here, you can grab a bite to eat and watch the game, or just relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

9. Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most iconic road trips in Australia. Here, you can explore some of the country’s most stunning coastline, from the majestic Twelve Apostles to the secluded beaches of the Great Ocean Walk. There are plenty of stops along the way, so you can take your time and explore the area at your own pace.

The Great Ocean Road is also home to some great towns and villages. Here, you can sample some of the local cuisine, explore the art galleries, or just wander around and soak up the atmosphere.

The Great Ocean Road is also the perfect place to spot some wildlife. Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and whales, as well as the native birds and animals that call the area home.

10. Melbourne Zoo

The Melbourne Zoo is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Here, you can explore the vast array of animals from around the world. From kangaroos and koalas to lions and tigers, there’s something for everyone.

The Melbourne Zoo also offers a variety of activities for all ages. From behind-the-scenes tours to interactive experiences, there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for an exciting day out, the Melbourne Zoo is the perfect place to visit.

The Melbourne Zoo also has some great restaurants and cafes. Here, you can grab a bite to eat and watch the animals, or just relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

11. Lygon Street

Lygon Street is the heart of Melbourne’s Little Italy. Here, you can explore the vibrant cafes, restaurants, and bars, as well as the unique boutiques and galleries. It’s also the perfect place to sample some of the city’s best Italian cuisine.

Lygon Street is also home to some great events throughout the year. From street parties and music festivals to art exhibitions and theatre performances, there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a vibrant night out, Lygon Street is the perfect place to visit.

Lygon Street is also a great place to pick up some souvenirs. Here, you can find everything from gourmet food to vintage clothing, so you can take a piece of Melbourne home with you.

12. Melbourne Museum

The Melbourne Museum is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Here, you can explore the history of Melbourne and discover some of the city’s most fascinating stories. It’s also home to some great interactive exhibitions, so it’s a great place to learn and have fun.

The Melbourne Museum also offers a variety of activities for all ages. From behind-the-scenes tours to interactive experiences, there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for an exciting day out, the Melbourne Museum is the perfect place to visit.

The Melbourne Museum also has some great cafes and restaurants. Here, you can grab a bite to eat and watch the world go by, or just relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Melbourne is a vibrant city full of culture, art, cuisine, and entertainment. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. But by taking a look at our list of must-see places in Melbourne, you’ll be sure to make the most of your time in the city. Whether you’re looking for art galleries and museums, restaurants and bars, or spectacular views, there’s something for everyone in Melbourne.