If you're looking to visit Melbourne, then our ultimate guide about Melbourne tourist attractions is here to help you find the best destinations and attractions to visit in your limited time. Melbourne is home to literally hundreds of different tourist attractions that are visited by millions of people each year, and today we want to tell you about the very best ones.
This ultimate guide about Melbourne tourist attractions will provide you with all the information you need about not only the most visited tourist attractions in the area, but also about some hidden gems that even some locals don't know about.
Get ready to go on the ultimate Melbourne tour with the following destinations. Keep in mind that we'll also talk about what the best times to visit Melbourne are, how to get around Melbourne, and more. Let's get to it and find out where you, as a tourist, should visit when you come to the great city of Melbourne.
Table of Contents
- Top Melbourne Tourist Attractions
- Top Melbourne Tourist Attractions to Visit in the City
- Top Tourist Attractions in Melbourne: Mornington Peninsula
- Top Tourist Attractions in Melbourne: Bellarine Peninsula
- Top Melbourne Tourist Attractions in Melbourne: Yarra Valley
- Top Tourist Attractions in Melbourne: The Great Ocean Road
- What Are the Different Types of Tourist Attractions in Melbourne?
- What’s The Best Time of Year to Visit Melbourne?
- What’s the Best Way to Get Around Melbourne?
- The Best Melbourne Tourist Attraction is Anything to do with a Helicopter!
Top Melbourne Tourist Attractions
Let’s not waste any more time and get to talking about some of the very best tourist attractions in all of Melbourne.
Top Melbourne Tourist Attractions to Visit in the City
Melbourne’s city centre is where the old world meets modernity. There’s a lot to explore here, from iconic landmarks and lush gardens to cultural hubs and coastal escapes. Let’s find out what the main part of the city has to offer.
Melbourne CBD
Melbourne’s Central Business District is the heart of the city. It’s a hub of activity, with countless attractions ranging from luxury shopping outlets to charming cafes in small laneways that you might miss if you don’t look closely.
Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like Flinders Street Station or take a stroll down Bourke Street Mall for a bit of shopping. The CBD is also home to some of the best cultural spots, including art galleries, museums, and performance spaces.
The compact layout of the CBD makes it easy to navigate on foot, allowing you to take in the unique combination of heritage buildings and modern skyscrapers, although a birds-eye view is always recommended, because there’s nothing like seeing the city from high up above.
Queen Victoria Market
A trip to Melbourne isn’t complete without a visit to Queen Victoria Market. This historic open-air market has been a staple in the city since the 19th century and is still a favourite for both locals and tourists alike.
Here, you’ll find fresh produce, gourmet foods, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. The market is divided into sections, including a meat and fish hall, dairy and deli area, and various stalls offering everything from fresh fruits to street food. It’s also home to a lively atmosphere, with street performers and bustling crowds.
Melbourne Cricket Ground
For sports enthusiasts, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is a must-visit destination. Known as “the G” by locals, it’s the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere. Whether you're catching a cricket match in the summer or an Australian Football League (AFL) game in the winter, the MCG is electrifying.
Even outside of game days, visitors can take a guided tour of the stadium, learning about its rich history and visiting areas normally off-limits, such as the player’s change rooms and media facilities.
The MCG is also home to the National Sports Museum, which illustrates Australia’s love for sport with interactive exhibits and memorabilia from some of the country's greatest athletes.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Nestled close to the city, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne. Spread over 94 acres, the gardens are home to more than 8,500 species of plants, from colourful flowers to towering trees.
Visitors can explore themed areas such as the Guilfoyle’s Volcano and the Australian Forest Walk, while also enjoying serene lakes and open lawns. The gardens provide a perfect spot for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply sitting in the shade to enjoy the tranquility.
For a truly unique experience, you can take in the gardens from above with the Melbourne City Scenic helicopter tour. This tour provides a breathtaking aerial view of the lush greenery and surrounding city, allowing you to appreciate Melbourne’s natural beauty from a whole new perspective.
Port Melbourne
Located just a few kilometres from the CBD, Port Melbourne has sandy beaches, a lively promenade, and an array of trendy cafes and restaurants. Port Melbourne Beach is a great spot to relax, take a dip, or watch ships come in at Station Pier, where international cruise liners dock.
You can also explore Bay Street, the main shopping and dining strip in the area, which features a mix of local boutiques, casual eateries, and fine dining options. The area’s maritime history adds another layer of charm, with historic buildings and piers galore.
Curtin House Rooftop Bar
The Curtin House Rooftop Bar is one of Melbourne’s favourite hangouts, and it’s a tourist hotspot too. Located on the top floor of the Curtin House building, this rooftop bar has panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a sunset drink or a casual evening with friends.
During the warmer months, it also transforms into an open-air cinema, where you can watch classic films under the stars. Whether you’re grabbing a cocktail, enjoying a movie, or just soaking in the atmosphere, Curtin House Rooftop Bar provides a uniquely Melbourne experience.
The Melbourne Museum
Located in Carlton Gardens, the Melbourne Museum is the largest museum in the Southern Hemisphere, providing visitors a walk through Australia’s natural and cultural history. The museum is home to a range of exhibits, from ancient fossils and dinosaur skeletons to artifacts from Indigenous Australian cultures.
One of the museum’s most famous exhibits is Phar Lap, the legendary racehorse, whose preserved hide is on display. The museum also houses the stunning Forest Gallery, a living indoor rainforest that illustrates Victoria’s diverse ecosystems. With interactive displays and engaging exhibits, the Melbourne Museum is perfect for families, history buffs, and anyone looking to learn more about Australia’s rich heritage.
The Royal Exhibition Building
Adjacent to the Melbourne Museum is the Royal Exhibition Building, one of the oldest remaining exhibition pavilions in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in 1880 for the Melbourne International Exhibition, this massive building features beautiful domes, intricate detailing, and expansive exhibition halls.
The building is still used for major events and exhibitions, but even if there’s no event on, it’s worth a visit just to admire the architecture and the surrounding Carlton Gardens. Of course, it’s best to visit when there’s an event happening! You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the building’s fascinating history and its role in Melbourne’s development as a cultural hub.
Brighton Beach
Known for its iconic Brighton Beach Boxes, this picturesque beach is one of Melbourne’s most famous coastal spots. The brightly coloured beach huts, with their vibrant designs, make for some great photo opportunities, as they’re the perfect backdrop for the golden sand and blue waters.
Brighton Beach is a fantastic spot for sunbathing, swimming, or for just taking a stroll along the coastline. The nearby Brighton Bathing Pavilion is also a great place to grab a bite or a drink after a day in the sun.
For a truly unforgettable experience, you can see the beach and surrounding area from the sky with the Melbourne City Coastal Scenic helicopter tour, offering breathtaking aerial views of Melbourne’s stunning coastline.
Eureka Tower – The Melbourne Skydeck
Standing 297 meters high, Eureka Tower is the tallest residential building in the Southern Hemisphere and home to The Melbourne Skydeck, the highest public observation deck in the region.
Located on the 88th floor, the Skydeck gives visitors panoramic 360-degree views of Melbourne.
For thrill-seekers, the Skydeck features The Edge, a glass cube that extends out from the building, allowing you to experience the city from a whole new level. It’s an unforgettable way to take in Melbourne’s stunning skyline, day or night.
Carlton Gardens
Yes, we already mentioned the Carlton Gardens several times, so here they are. Found in the middle of Melbourne, Carlton Gardens is a green and beautifully landscaped park that provides visitors a serene day of exploration and peace.
The gardens are home to huge lawns, flower beds, and beautiful fountains, making it an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely walks, or relaxing under the shade of century-old trees. It’s a peaceful retreat for anyone looking to take a break from the city’s fast pace on an otherwise adventure-filled trip to Melbourne.
Federation Square
As Melbourne’s cultural centre, Federation Square is where art, events, and architecture all come together in one great space. Located opposite Flinders Street Station, this open plaza is surrounded by cultural icons such as the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) and the Ian Potter Centre, which is home to an impressive range of Australian art.
The square itself often hosts festivals, outdoor screenings, and live performances, making it a lively place to visit throughout the year, no matter the season. Its modern architecture contrasts with its historic buildings, reflecting Melbourne’s blend of old and new.
Flinders Lane
A stroll down Flinders Lane will take you through some of Melbourne’s best hidden gems. Known for its boutique shopping, vibrant street art, and eclectic dining options, Flinders Lane is a reflection of Melbourne’s creative soul. You’ll find some of the city’s best restaurants here, ranging from high-end dining experiences to quirky cafes. The laneway also has plenty of galleries and street art, a great mix of culture and creativity.
Top Tourist Attractions in Melbourne: Mornington Peninsula
Just an hour from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is known for its beautiful beaches, rolling vineyards, and relaxing hot springs. It’s the perfect day trip for those looking to escape the city and enjoy a more laid-back, natural environment.
Peninsula Hot Springs
Mornington Peninsula is home to the Peninsula Hot Springs, a must-visit for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The geothermal waters that flow into the pools are rich in minerals and are said to have healing properties, maybe relieving some of that built-up stress!
Visitors can soak in the thermal pools, enjoy a massage, or experience a variety of wellness activities for the ultimate in relaxation. The hot springs are open year-round, making them a perfect destination no matter the season.
For an extra hint of luxury, consider arriving in style with the Peninsula Hot Springs helicopter tour, where you can take in the stunning Mornington Peninsula landscape before unwinding in the relaxing waters.
St. Andrew’s Beach Brewery
Found on a former racehorse training facility, St. Andrew’s Beach Brewery offers more than just great beer. The brewery transformed the horse stables into cosy and comfortable seating areas for everyone to enjoy some brews and pub foods.
With a focus on craft beer, there are plenty of options for everyone, from refreshing lagers to hoppy IPAs.
Visitors can enjoy a cold drink while taking in the expansive grounds that used to be a racehorse training facility. To make your visit even more special, consider the St. Andrew’s Beach Brewery helicopter tour for a scenic flight over the peninsula before landing for a cold brew.
Top Tourist Attractions in Melbourne: Bellarine Peninsula
The Bellarine Peninsula is a region known for its stunning coastal views, cosy towns, and fresh local produce. It’s a popular destination for food lovers and wine enthusiasts alike, and this is where you’ll find the ever-popular Jack Rabbit Restaurant.
Jack Rabbit Restaurant
With views of Corio Bay and vineyards, the Jack Rabbit Restaurant on the Bellarine Peninsula is a premier destination for food and wine lovers. The restaurant is known for its farm-to-table philosophy, using locally sourced ingredients to create a menu that changes with the seasons. There’s always something new to try.
Whether you’re enjoying fresh seafood or a perfectly cooked steak, the dishes are complemented by the restaurant’s own wines, which are made in-house by winemaking connoisseurs. If you want to take things to the next level, the Jack Rabbit helicopter tour is always worth considering.
Top Melbourne Tourist Attractions in Melbourne: Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley is Melbourne’s prime wine country, known for its rolling hills, award-winning wineries, and local produce that blends perfectly with the region’s fine wines. Just an hour’s drive from the city, it’s the perfect escape for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts, with wildlife and wine alike!
Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary
The Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Australia’s most visited wildlife parks, dedicated to the conservation of native Australian animals. Here, visitors can get up close with koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and even the ever-elusive platypus.
The sanctuary provides visitors the opportunity to learn about these animals in their natural habitats, with daily keeper talks and interactive experiences.
To take your visit to a whole new level, the Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary helicopter tour is something worth experiencing, where you can fly over Yarra Valley before landing at the sanctuary for a neat wildlife encounter.
Hubert Estate
Hubert Estate is a great destination for wine and food enthusiasts alike. Known for its premium wines and stunning vineyard views, this estate offers a blend of luxury and natural beauty.
Hubert Estate is all about fine wines, crafted from the valley's rich soil and climate. Visitors can enjoy a tasting session featuring the estate’s renowned wines, including their signature Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
The estate’s restaurant adds to the experience, with a farm-to-table dining philosophy to make sure that every meal is fresh, seasonal, and perfectly paired with their wines.
For those wanting a more exclusive experience, the Hubert Estate helicopter tour offers a magnificent aerial view of the Yarra Valley’s vineyards before landing at the estate for a day of indulgence. Imagine arriving in style, soaring over the rolling hills and verdant vineyards, and then settling in for a gourmet meal and wine tasting!
Zonzo Winery
Zonzo Estate is characterised by Italian hospitality and fine wine, making it an unforgettable stop for those who want to experience a taste of the finer things. Known for its picturesque setting and relaxed atmosphere, Zonzo provides visitors with a dining experience that feels like a warm family gathering.
The wood-fired pizzas, hearty Italian-inspired dishes, and an impressive selection of wines, such as Shiraz, Sangiovese, and Pinot Grigio are served against the backdrop of stunning vineyard views.
For a truly unique way to experience the winery, consider arriving by air with the Zonzo Estate helicopter tour. Flying over the Yarra Valley, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the region’s rolling hills and vineyards before touching down at Zonzo for an afternoon of wine, food, and relaxation.
Levantine Hill
For tourists who want an elevated wine and dining experience, Levantine Hill is the place to be. This award-winning winery is celebrated for its world-class wines and stunning estate. The modern design of the estate is as impressive as the wines. Levantine Hill is renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Chardonnay, which have earned international acclaim.
The estate’s fine dining restaurant offers a gourmet menu that pairs beautifully with its wines. Each dish is crafted with precision and care, highlighting the best of local produce. From decadent multi-course meals to expertly paired wine tastings, Levantine Hill is a true paradise.
What sets Levantine Hill apart is not just its luxury but also the opportunity to arrive in style via the Levantine Hill helicopter tour. This scenic flight over the Yarra Valley lets you take in the beauty of the region from the skies before landing at the estate for a day of fine wine and dining.
Top Tourist Attractions in Melbourne: The Great Ocean Road
Last but certainly not least, we have The Great Ocean Road, perhaps one of the most popular tourist attractions of all.
The Great Ocean Road & The 12 Apostles
The 12 Apostles are the main attraction on Great Ocean Road. These towering limestone stacks rise from the Southern Ocean, creating a breathtaking view that draws in millions of visitors each year. The scale of these rock formations is awe-inspiring, and their beauty is made just that much more stunning by the ever-changing colours of the ocean and sky around them.
While you can take in the 12 Apostles from various lookouts along the coast, there’s nothing quite like seeing them from the air. The 12 Apostles helicopter tour offers a unique and unparalleled perspective, flying over the coastline and giving you a bird’s-eye view of the Apostles and the surrounding landscape.
What Are the Different Types of Tourist Attractions in Melbourne?
What’s neat about being a tourist in Melbourne is that there are so many different types of attractions to consider. Let’s find out what tourists love the most about Melbourne.
Art, Culture, and History Attractions
Melbourne is a city rich in art, culture, and history, with a massive range of attractions for visitors. Federation Square serves as a cultural hub, housing the National Gallery of Victoria and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image.
The city’s street art, particularly in Hosier Lane, is world-renowned, with murals that change on a regular basis.
History buffs can explore Melbourne Museum and the Royal Exhibition Building, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The blend of modern galleries and historical landmarks makes Melbourne a must-visit destination for anyone interested in culture and history.
Fine Dining Locations
Melbourne is a foodie’s paradise, as it is home to some of Australia’s finest dining. From world-class restaurants like Attica to hidden gems in Flinders Lane, the city has a rich culinary landscape.
Melbourne’s diverse cuisine reflects its multicultural roots, with fine dining restaurants serving everything from Italian and Japanese to modern Australian cuisine that is sure to tantalise your taste buds.
Yarra Valley and Winery Destinations
A short drive from Melbourne (or an even shorter helicopter flight!), Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s most popular and known wine regions, regarded for its lush vineyards and world-class wineries.
Visitors can enjoy wine tastings at estates like Levantine Hill, Zonzo Estate, and Hubert Estate, where the picturesque scenery adds to the appeal, something that you can really enjoy thanks to a bird’s-eye view from a chopper. The Yarra Valley isn’t just about wine, because it’s also home to fine dining experiences that pair seasonal local produce with award-winning wines.
Wildlife Attractions
Melbourne offers fantastic opportunities to experience Australia’s unique wildlife. At Healesville Sanctuary, visitors can get up close with koalas, kangaroos, and wombats, all in their natural habitats.
Melbourne Zoo is another top spot, with well over 300 species of native and exotic creatures from around the world. These attractions are perfect for families and nature lovers alike, offering both fun and educational experiences.
Sightseeing in Melbourne
Melbourne’s skyline and diverse architecture make it a great city for sightseeing. Iconic landmarks like the Eureka Skydeck offer panoramic views of the city, while the Royal Botanic Gardens provide a tranquil escape.
Federation Square, Flinders Street Station, and the Queen Victoria Market are must-see spots for those looking to experience Melbourne’s vibrant urban culture. It’s also a great place to experience the Yarra River, which flows right through the city.
Adventure and Action Attractions
For thrill-seekers, Melbourne offers a wide range of adventure activities. The Melbourne Skydiving Centre is a top choice for adrenaline junkies, offering breathtaking views of the city as you freefall through the air.
For a more leisurely adventure, the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel provides a bird’s-eye view of the city.
However, for the ultimate action-packed experience, there’s just nothing like taking a thrilling helicopter ride over one thousand feet in the air, as you look down on the magnificent scenery below.
Winter
Winter in Melbourne, lasting from June to August, sees cooler temperatures averaging around 10 to 15°C. It’s the perfect time to explore the city's vibrant arts scene, with events like the Melbourne International Film Festival. Though chilly, winter in Melbourne is lively with indoor events and fewer tourist crowds, making it a peaceful time to visit.
Spring
Spring, lasting from September to November, is one of the best times to visit Melbourne. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 22°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
The foliage and flowers at the Royal Botanic Gardens bloom, and the Melbourne Cup Carnival starts off in November, drawing visitors from all over the world.
Spring also marks the start of numerous festivals, making it a vibrant and colourful time to explore the city and enjoy its cultural events and natural beauty. It also happens to be a great time of year for a comfortable, luxurious, and exciting helicopter ride.
Summer
Melbourne’s summer, lasting from December to February, sees temperatures averaging between 20 to 30°C, although with climate change, things are getting hotter. It’s the perfect season for beach lovers, with St. Kilda Beach and Brighton Beach drawing crowds.
Summer is also festival season, with events like the Australian Open and outdoor cinema screenings. It’s an energetic time of year, filled with outdoor dining, rooftop bars, and lively streets.
If you enjoy sunny weather and a bustling atmosphere, summer in Melbourne won’t disappoint. If you want to do some outdoor wining and dining at one of Yarra Valley’s wineries, this is a great season to do so in.
Autumn
Autumn, from March to May, is a fantastic time to visit Melbourne because the weather cools to 15 to 25°C, and the city’s parks and gardens are full of vibrant fall colours. It’s a great time for wine lovers to visit the Yarra Valley for harvest season and outdoor enthusiasts to explore Melbourne’s gardens and walking trails.
What’s the Best Way to Get Around Melbourne?
The great thing about being a tourist in Melbourne is that there are plenty of ways to get around.
On Foot
Melbourne’s city centre is compact and easy to navigate on foot. Walking allows you to explore its famous laneways, discover hidden cafes, and appreciate the city’s rich street art scene. Walking around Federation Square, Flinders Street Station, and the Royal Botanic Gardens provides visitors an up-close view of Melbourne’s vibrant city life.
By Car – Taxi or Uber
Taxis and Uber are available throughout Melbourne, particularly convenient for late-night transport. They’re ideal for quick trips to restaurants, attractions like the Melbourne Museum, or even for exploring the surrounding suburbs.
By Bicycle
Melbourne is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and rental services like Blue Bikes available in many locations. Cycling is a fun way to explore scenic spots like the Yarra River Trail or the coastal routes near St. Kilda Beach. The flat terrain and scenic paths make biking a great way to see the city.
Using Public Transport
Melbourne’s trams, trains, and buses provide excellent public transport options for exploring the city and nearby areas. The tram network, particularly the free tram zone in the CBD, makes getting around the city’s central attractions quick and easy.
With a Helicopter!
For a truly extraordinary way to explore Melbourne, consider taking one of Rotor One’s helicopter tours. A helicopter ride offers a breathtaking aerial view of iconic landmarks like the Eureka Tower, Brighton Beach, and the Yarra Valley.
Whether it's a scenic flight over the city or a tour to nearby vineyards and coastlines, flying high above Melbourne’s stunning landscapes offers an experience like no other. It’s all about traveling in luxury and style while getting to experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
The Best Melbourne Tourist Attraction is Anything to do with a Helicopter!
Okay, so let’s be clear here. If you want to visit Melbourne, and you want to make the most of your trip, then there’s just nothing like taking a helicopter tour. There’s just something about being thousands of feet up in the sky and flying over landmarks that you would otherwise only get to experience from a rather boring perspective. Sometimes the perspective you have on life can make all of the difference, and a helicopter provides you with one heck of a perspective on the world below!
