If you're planning to visit Melbourne, then you need to put together a solid itinerary, so you can see as much of this iconic city as possible, even though you only have 4 days in Melbourne. Melbourne central and the surrounding area is home to some of the most sightseeing worthy destinations, grand landmarks, and fine dining, all of which you absolutely need to experience. Whether you want to take a walking tour of the Melbourne CBD or venture further out into the suburbs and along the Great Ocean Road, there's something in Melbourne for everyone. This is your 4 day Melbourne itinerary.
Table of Contents
- Day 1 in Melbourne
- Breakfast at Cumulus Inc.
- Visit Federation Square and ACMI
- Go on the Melbourne City & Coastal Scenic Helicopter Tour
- Dinner at Freyja
- Day 2 in Melbourne
- Breakfast at Higher Ground
- See the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
- Take a Punt Boat Ride at the Royal Botanic Gardens
- Have Dinner at Tipo 00
- Day 3 in Melbourne
- Breakfast at St. Ali
- See the Memorial Arch and Take the Great Ocean Road Drive
- Visit the Twelve Apostles
- Dinner at Supernormal
- Day 4 in Melbourne
- Breakfast at Auction Rooms
- Explore Laneways and Street Art
- Visit Melbourne Zoo
- Dinner at Republica St Kilda Beach
- Other Destinations in Melbourne Worth Seeing
Day 1 in Melbourne
Day 1 of your 4 days in Melbourne looks as follows:
- Breakfast at Cumulus Inc.
- Visit Federation Square and ACMI
- Go on the Melbourne City & Coastal Scenic Helicopter Tour
- Dinner at Freyja
Breakfast at Cumulus Inc.
Break into your Melbourne itinerary with breakfast at Cumulus Inc. - a Melbourne CBD café that's just as well-known as it is loved. Seasonal ingredients shine on the menu, which caters to all tastes.
That means you can enjoy their signature shakshuka (baked eggs in spicy tomato sauce) or smoked ocean trout with soft-boiled eggs and sourdough just as much as you can their expertly brewed espresso. Though, if you're not a coffee fan, there are plenty of other options, such as fresh-pressed juices or herbal teas.
The communal dining style at Cumulus Inc. makes it a welcoming spot for solo travellers, couples or small groups. Plus, its location in the heart of Melbourne CBD means you can easily roll into the day's next activity.
Visit Federation Square and ACMI
After breakfast, head to Federation Square, the city's cultural hub. ACMI (the Australian Centre for the Moving Image) is based there.
This museum is all about film, television, and digital culture, and its interactive exhibits will give you a behind-the-scenes look at Australian cinema and the latest in digital media.
You'll find something to interest film buffs, families, and anyone curious about media technology. Federation Square itself is a great place to relax and plan your day-outdoor seating, with free public Wi-Fi included.
Go on the Melbourne City & Coastal Scenic Helicopter Tour
The Melbourne City & Coastal Scenic Helicopter Tour is a real highlight of your first day. You'll get 30 minutes of aerial views of Melbourne CBD, Port Phillip Bay, and other iconic locations from Essendon Airport (about an hour from the city centre).
You'll see the Yarra River, St Kilda Beach, Albert Park, and Luna Park from up high. Guaranteed window seats and a knowledgeable pilot who'll point out all the sights make this a great choice for families, couples, or anyone looking to see Melbourne from a new angle.
Dinner at Freyja
Finish off your day with dinner at Freyja, a modern Nordic-inspired restaurant in Melbourne CBD. Sustainability and high-quality ingredients are at the heart of their Scandinavian-flavoured menu.
You might like their slow-roasted lamb shoulder or cured kingfish, served with a side of whipped butter and rye bread.
Don't forget to leave room for dessert: lingonberry sorbet or cloudberry panna cotta are popular choices. Freyja's minimalist yet elegant décor makes it a great choice for couples or small groups looking for a refined dining experience.
Day 2 in Melbourne
The second day of your 4 day Melbourne itinerary looks as follows:
- Breakfast at Higher Ground
- See the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
- Take a Punt Boat Ride at the Royal Botanic Gardens
- Have Dinner at Tipo 00
Breakfast at Higher Ground
Start your second day in Melbourne with breakfast at Higher Ground, a café in the heart of the city. This place is a local favorite for its creative menu and stylish, industrial-chic setting.
You'll find everything from ricotta hotcakes with seasonal berries to smoked salmon on sourdough with poached eggs, and the spiced avocado toast served with dukkah is a must-try.
Coffee lovers will appreciate the single-origin espresso and creamy lattes on offer. And with its location near Melbourne Central, Higher Ground is a convenient spot for travellers staying in the city centre or exploring further.
See the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
After breakfast, head to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). One of the southern hemisphere's top art museums, the NGV is a treasure trove of local and international art.
You'll see everything from contemporary works to classical masterpieces, including Indigenous Australian art, European paintings, and modern sculptures.
The NGV is great for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find the interactive exhibits and diverse galleries engaging. A visit can easily take a few hours, so you can make it a substantial part of your day.
Take a stroll along the Yarra River after your visit, as the NGV's location offers some beautiful views. It's an essential stop for anyone who wants to combine culture and history in their Melbourne itinerary.
Take a Punt Boat Ride at the Royal Botanic Gardens
Later, spend the afternoon at the Royal Botanic Gardens. Take a punt boat ride on Ornamental Lake and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Guides will show you around the gardens' flora and fauna as you glide across the water. This is a great spot for couples, families, and solo travellers looking to unwind.
Birdwatching, taking photos, or simply relaxing in nature are all great ways to spend your time at the gardens. And with its location near Melbourne Central, it's easily accessible for travellers exploring the city.
Have Dinner at Tipo 00
Finish off your day with dinner at Tipo 00, an Italian restaurant in the central business district. This place specialises in handmade pasta and traditional Italian flavours that locals and visitors love.
Try the squid ink tagliolini with crab meat, the slow-cooked beef cheek with polenta, or the rich ricotta gnocchi served with brown butter. Don't forget to leave room for the tiramisu or panna cotta. Tipo 00's intimate atmosphere makes it perfect for couples or small groups.
Day 3 in Melbourne
Day 3 of your 4 day Melbourne itinerary looks as follows:
- Breakfast at St. Ali
- See the Memorial Arch and Take the Great Ocean Road Drive
- Visit the Twelve Apostles
- Dinner at Supernormal
Breakfast at St. Ali
Breakfast at St. Ali sets the tone for your day in Melbourne. This specialty coffee spot near St Kilda Road is where you'll find high-quality, locally sourced ingredients on your plate, and in your cup.
Think smashed avocado with poached eggs, ricotta pancakes, or their signature beef brisket Benedict. Coffee aficionados will love the single-origin espressos and pour-over options.
That location near St Kilda makes it a convenient choice for visitors staying in or around the area, especially if you're planning to continue along the Great Ocean Road.
St. Ali is an essential stop on your Melbourne itinerary because it combines excellent food with a relaxed atmosphere. That's a pretty memorable way to kick off your day trip.
See the Memorial Arch and Take the Great Ocean Road Drive
After breakfast, you can embark on the Great Ocean Road drive, one of the Southern Hemisphere's most scenic routes. Your first stop is the Memorial Arch, a landmark that commemorates the construction of the road by World War I veterans.
The views of the surrounding coastline and the Great Otway National Park from there are perfect for photos.
The drive itself is a highlight for anyone looking to visit Melbourne and experience the natural beauty of Victoria. You'll see the ocean, cliffs and lush rainforests. That's a combination that's hard to resist.
This activity is great for families, couples and solo travellers who love photography or scenic drives. The Great Ocean Road is a fantastic addition to any Melbourne itinerary, offering a unique perspective on the region beyond St Kilda and the city.
Visit the Twelve Apostles
The Twelve Apostles are a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience Australia's unique landscapes.
These limestone stacks rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean are among the most photographed landmarks in the Southern Hemisphere. You can enjoy designated viewing platforms and walking trails for different perspectives of this natural wonder.
Information boards along the trails explain how the constant erosion of the cliffs has shaped these towering structures over millions of years.
Spending a few hours here allows you to fully appreciate the scenery and serene atmosphere. Visitors often take the opportunity to walk along Gibson Steps, which lead down to the beach for an up-close view of the stacks. Alternatively, you can explore Loch Ard Gorge.
Visiting the Twelve Apostles is an essential part of any day Melbourne itinerary. It combines breathtaking sights with education, making it a highlight of your Great Ocean Road adventure. And an absolute must when you visit Australia.
Dinner at Supernormal
Finish your day with dinner at Supernormal, a contemporary restaurant located near St Kilda Road. This Asian-inspired menu features favorites like lobster rolls, pork bao, slow-cooked Szechuan lamb, and raw kingfish with soy and lime. The blend of traditional flavours and innovative techniques is what makes Supernormal stand out.
The relaxed yet modern atmosphere makes it a great choice for groups, couples or solo diners looking for a satisfying end to their day.
The dessert menu features popular options like peanut butter parfait and soft-serve ice cream with miso caramel. The drinks menu includes a variety of cocktails, sake, and locally sourced wines. Supernormal perfectly complements the day's adventure, showcasing Melbourne's vibrant culinary scene.
Day 4 in Melbourne
The fourth day of your Melbourne visit looks as follows:
- Breakfast at Auction Rooms
- Explore Laneways and Street Art
- Visit Melbourne Zoo
- Dinner at Republica St Kilda Beach
Breakfast at Auction Rooms
Finish off your 4 days in Melbourne with breakfast at Auction Rooms, a North Melbourne café.
Known for their great coffee and creative menu, this café serves dishes like baked eggs with spicy tomato sugo, ricotta hotcakes with seasonal fruit, and their famous smashed avocado on sourdough.
Coffee lovers can enjoy their single origin espressos or a range of filter brews, making it a lovely spot to start your day.
Auction Rooms is also close to the Queen Victoria Market, so you can browse the fresh produce and local goods after breakfast.
This breakfast is perfect for solo travellers, couples, and families looking to experience Melbourne’s café culture - a great way to start your last day in the city before the day ahead.
Explore Laneways and Street Art
Spend the morning exploring Melbourne’s famous laneways and street art.
Hosier Lane is the most famous, with colourful murals and constantly changing artwork. Degraves Street, nearby, is a bustling laneway with cafes and boutiques, a real taste of Melbourne’s culture.
Walk through these laneways, take in the atmosphere, and photograph the street art. It's easy to get to and a must see for anyone visiting Melbourne and wanting to experience the artistic side of the city.
This is suitable for all ages and interests, especially those who want to experience local culture. The laneways add a bit of magic to your 4 days in Melbourne so make sure to include them in your itinerary.
Visit Melbourne Zoo
In the afternoon head to the Melbourne Zoo, just a short drive from St Kilda. The zoo has a mix of native Australian wildlife like kangaroos, koalas, and platypus, and international species like lions, giraffes, and elephants.
You can also explore the Butterfly House and the Trail of the Elephants.
A few hours here is perfect for families, couples, and animal lovers. The zoo has educational experiences, zookeeper talks and interactive exhibits that will appeal to all ages.
It’s close to other attractions, so a great addition to your day trip around the city.The Melbourne Zoo is a great way to wrap up your 4 days in Melbourne, a mix of relaxation, learning, and seeing the city’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
Dinner at Republica St Kilda Beach
Finish off your last day with dinner at Republica, a beachfront restaurant at St Kilda Beach. Known for its laid back vibe and fresh seasonal menu, Republica serves up dishes like grilled barramundi, wood fired pizzas, and seafood platters.
Vegetarians can also enjoy their charred vegetable salad or margherita pizza.
The restaurant has great views of the Melbourne skyline and is right on St Kilda Pier, so you can take a post dinner walk. Dining at Republica is the perfect way to cap off your 4 days in Melbourne and experience St Kilda.
Other Destinations in Melbourne Worth Seeing
Although we've put together an extensive 4 day Melbourne itinerary, it doesn't cover nearly everything that this awesome city has to see. Here are just some of the other iconic Melbourne destinations worth seeing.
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State Library Victoria
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Koala Conservation Centre
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Melbourne's Southbank
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Grampians National Park
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Brunswick Street
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Crown Casino
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Little Bourke Street
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Flinders Street and Flinders Street Station
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AC DC Lane
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Fed Square
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Swanston Street
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Eureka Tower
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Brighton Beach & The Brighton Bathing Boxes
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Carlton Gardens
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Melbourne Museum
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Southern Cross Station
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Luna Park
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Ian Potter Centre
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Collins Street
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Queen Victoria Market
