Welcome to Melbourne—voted one of the world’s most liveable cities, and for good reason. From iconic landmarks to hidden local gems, this guide reveals the real things to do in Melbourne Australia—no tourist fluff, just authentic experiences. Whether exploring leafy laneways, sipping world-class coffee, or catching a sunset at St Kilda Beach, every corner has a story. Want to know what to visit in Melbourne beyond the postcards? Think rooftop bars, vibrant street art, and neighbourhoods brimming with culture. From art lovers and foodies to history buffs and nature seekers, there’s something in Melbourne for everyone. Let’s explore.
We might receive a commission when you buy through our links.
1. Tour the Legendary Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
One of the best things to do in Melbourne Australia is taking a guided tour of the iconic MCG. As someone who’s not a huge sports fan, I was amazed by its scale and history—100,000 seats, world records, and legendary events like the AFL Grand Final and Taylor Swift’s 96,000-strong concert! The tour gave me behind-the-scenes access and stories that truly connect with Melbourne’s identity. I booked it easily through GetYourGuide for $35. Even if you’re here during a quiet season, don’t miss it. It’s an unforgettable cultural experience backed by real heritage—and yes, the energy is absolutely unmatched. A must-do for all travelers.
2. Step Inside History at the Old Melbourne Gaol
If you’re into dark history, one of the most chilling Melbourne sightseeing places is the Old Melbourne Gaol. I visited out of curiosity and left truly fascinated. This 1842 prison once held Ned Kelly and over 130 executed criminals. The atmosphere? Cold, grim, and downright eerie. The gallows, death masks, and haunting prisoner stories gave me a real sense of Melbourne’s past. I skipped the Watch House add-on, but the main Gaol tour was well worth the $38. If you’re braver than me, book the ghost tour at night—it’s seriously spooky!
3. State Library of Victoria
A trip to the State Library of Victoria is a must when considering what to visit in Melbourne. Just a block away from the Old Melbourne Gaol, this historic landmark offers more than just architecture. The La Trobe Reading Room, with its majestic domed ceiling and octagonal layout, is an iconic sight often featured in travel guides.
Visitors can head to the sixth floor for panoramic photos of this elegant space. Beyond its Instagram-worthy views, the library houses Ned Kelly’s original armour, rare chess collections, and captivating exhibitions like the Rennie Ellis photography series. As one of the world’s oldest free libraries, it showcases Melbourne’s rich cultural and intellectual heritage—perfect for those exploring the city’s meaningful highlights.
4. Shop With Locals at Queen Victoria Market
One of the top things to do in Melbourne Australia is visiting Queen Victoria Market. As the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere, it blends history, community, and flavour. Established in 1878, the market features over 600 stalls offering everything from fresh produce to gourmet sausages—kangaroo included.
The deli section tempts with sourdough, cheese, cured meats, and more—ideal for a local picnic. For those without a kitchen, street food stalls serve up global flavours, including the legendary American Doughnut Kitchen and Bratwurst Shop & Co. Visiting early on weekdays avoids crowds and ensures the freshest picks. A stroll through Queen Vic is a true taste of Melbourne’s culture, perfect for food lovers and first-time visitors alike.
5. Enjoy Panoramic Views from the Eureka Skydeck
For unbeatable views of Melbourne, the Eureka Skydeck ranks among the best Melbourne sightseeing places. Located on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower, it offers sweeping vistas of the city, from the Yarra River to the Dandenong Ranges. The floor-to-ceiling glass and telescopes make it easy to spot iconic landmarks like the MCG and Royal Botanic Gardens. Visitors can also try “The Edge”—a glass cube that projects outside the tower for a thrilling suspended view. Based on personal experience, visiting in late morning on a clear day provides the best light and fewer crowds.
6. Climb the Dome at the Royal Exhibition Building
Among Melbourne’s lesser-known gems is the Royal Exhibition Building—Australia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site and the birthplace of its first Parliament. For those seeking hidden history, one of the most rewarding experiences is the Dome Promenade Tour. It’s a guided hour-long journey through grand interiors, colourful ceiling murals, and World Fair exhibits in the basement. The highlight? Stepping onto the terrace to walk around the dome and take in 360° city views. Not many tourists know about this rooftop access, making it feel exclusive.
7. Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
The Royal Botanic Gardens is one place every visitor should prioritise. Located just a short walk from the CBD, this green paradise features over 8,500 plant species, tranquil lakes, and shaded paths perfect for peaceful strolls. A favourite route starts at the Southern Africa Collection, winds through Fern Gully and Palm Lawn, then leads to the Nymphaea Lily Lake—often dotted with sunbathing turtles.
For a unique experience, try punting on the Ornamental Lake (September–May), but book early. Don’t miss Guilfoyle’s Volcano, an eco-conscious water reservoir cleverly designed as a visual treat. It’s also the best photo spot for Melbourne’s skyline, making it both a photographer’s dream and a quiet escape within the city.
8. See the Iconic Brighton Beach Boxes
One of the most photogenic things to do in Melbourne Australia is visit Brighton’s colourful beach boxes. These iconic wooden huts have lined the sand since the 1800s, each painted in eye-catching colours and designs. They may be small, but they’re incredibly valuable—some selling for over $300,000 despite having no electricity or plumbing. While owning one might be a dream, visiting them is a must. The soft golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and distant city skyline make Brighton Beach an ideal spot for sunbathing or photography. After soaking in the beach vibes, wander over to Brighton’s chic cafés for brunch.
9. Stroll or Speed Around Albert Park Lake
For those seeking chill vibes or an urban nature escape, Albert Park Lake is one of the top things to do in Melbourne Australia. This scenic spot near the CBD offers a peaceful lakeside path perfect for walking, jogging, or simply relaxing with views of the Melbourne skyline. Swans glide across the water while locals walk their dogs or enjoy a Pinterest-worthy picnic. But come Grand Prix season, the park turns into a high-speed racetrack for the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. Whether it’s peaceful mornings or adrenaline-fueled events, Albert Park Lake blends nature and excitement—making it one of the most versatile Melbourne sightseeing places to explore year-round.
10. Marvel at the Historic Flinders Street Station
Flinders Street Station is hands down one of the most iconic things to do in Melbourne Australia. With its mustard-yellow walls, green dome, and famous row of clocks, it’s impossible to miss. It’s not just Australia’s oldest train station—it once held the title of the busiest in the world!
Today, it’s still the lifeline of Melbourne’s public transport system. Meeting someone? Say “under the clocks” and locals will know exactly where. Inside, it’s buzzing with energy, music from buskers, and glimpses of its historic charm. There’s even a closed-off ballroom upstairs that has reached near-legend status. This isn’t just a stop on your route—it’s a place to experience Melbourne’s heartbeat. Make sure it’s on your list of Melbourne sightseeing places.
11. Retro Arcades of CBD
Exploring Melbourne’s retro arcades is like uncovering a hidden world of charm and elegance. Block Arcade is a standout with its mosaic-tiled floors and vintage tea rooms—Hopetoun Tea Rooms has been delighting cake lovers for over 100 years. Just a short stroll away, Royal Arcade (built in 1869) features Gaunt’s Clock, where the legendary figures Gog and Magog strike each hour. It’s also home to local favourites like Koko Black and Spellbox.
For architecture lovers, Cathedral Arcade is a must—tucked above Flinders Lane, its stained-glass ceiling and art deco design create a stunning atmosphere. These arcades reflect Melbourne’s layered history and creativity, offering a mix of shopping, treats, and visual delight that’s easy to miss unless you’re paying attention.
Happy Reading!
