How to Travel Melbourne
Want to know how to travel Melbourne? This local guide hits all the highlights, hot spots and logistics. Smack bang on the head. To help you make the most of your trip, we cover everything you need to know about Victoria’s vibrant capital city. From the best time to visit Melbourne to navigating the international airport, you can get ready to say ‘‘g’day’’ to the top activities and attractions. So, let’s dive in deep.
This city is packed with things to do, from the buzzing gin bars and cheap eats to the labyrinth-like laneways and colourful culture scene. There’s always something going on, making Melbourne one of the most popular cities to visit in Australia.
For the past six years, I’ve been living in Barcelona, Spain. The fabulous fiestas, much-needed siestas and tasty tapas have kept me on my feet, but recently, I’ve decided to make the move back to Melbourne.
And if I’m completely honest, I feel like a tourist in my own city. It’s like I’m seeing everything through a fresh set of eyes. I seem to appreciate the sprawling city streets and array of attractions so much more than before.
And I can now see why the city reels in 10 million tourists, year after year.
I’ve scavenged the web for travel guides, itineraries and all things Melbourne. And after many months of careful compilation, I’ve decided to bring the best of the best to you, all from a local perspective.
This is the food, sports, nightlife, culture and fashion capital of Australia. There is a lot to see, but I’m determined to help you make the most of your time, money and energy, no matter whether you’re a solo globetrotter or a family-focused traveller.
If you’re planning a trip to Melbourne, this guide has everything you need to know. Literally. We’re going to give you a local take on many of the myriad experiences so that you can see more, spend less and ditch the tourist traps. Boo yeah!
So without further ado, here’s how to travel Melbourne.
How to Travel Melbourne
Whether you want to spend an entire week or just 2 days in Melbourne, Australia, you’ll be surprised at how much you can squeeze in… AFL football matches, 24-hour parties on Chapel Street, fashion-filled events and awe-inspiring art galleries.
Here’s what we cover in this guide on How to Travel Melbourne:
Aboriginal Melbourne: History, Highlights and Must-See Attractions
Top Things to do in Melbourne: Free Activities and Major Landmarks
Best Places to Eat in Melbourne: Budget Eats and High-End Restaurants
Nightlife in Melbourne: Best Clubs, Bars and Live Music
Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Best Time to Visit Melbourne: Pros and Cons of Summer and Winter
How to Get Around Melbourne: Public Transport, Rideshare, Taxis and More
Melbourne Airport: How to Get to/from Tullamarine
Where to Stay in Melbourne: Top 11 Places for Tourists
Accessibility in Melbourne
FAQs
Aboriginal Melbourne
Whether you’re travelling from Melbourne to Sydney or somewhere else abroad, don’t leave without some insight into Aboriginal Australia.
Melbourne was built on the land of the Kulin Nation of the Wurundjeri people. For many years, the ancient grounds have served as a significant meeting place. If you visit Melbourne, learn about its rich history through a diversity of experiences such as heritage walks, cultural tours and art galleries. Here are a few facts about the city:
Traditional name of Central Melbourne: Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)
Indigenous Peoples of Central Melbourne: Wurundjeri people
Traditional lands of Greater Melbourne: Kulin Nation
Traditional languages of Narrm: There are four traditional languages in Narrm. Bunurong (Bun-wurrung), Taungurung (Tung-ger-rung), Wathaurong (Wadha-wurrung) and Dja Dja Wurrung (Jar-Jar-Wur-rung)
You can take a deep dive into Aboriginal Australia at various sites that are spread across the city. Popular places to visit include:
Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia (don’t miss the 19th-century drawings by William Barak and 20th-century paintings by Albert Namatjira)
Birrarung Marr (check out the Birrarung Wilam art installation)
Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre (located inside the Melbourne Museum)
Top Things to do in Melbourne
It’s no secret that there are many places to visit in Melbourne.
Wander around the vintage shops in Prahran, indulge at brunch on Degraves Street and enjoy the live music shows in Richmond. Whatever your style, you’re bound to find something that’s fit for you. If you want the full scoop, find out everything you need to know in my guide on the best things to do in Melbourne.
If you’re planning a trip to Melbourne, here are the top seven things to add to your bucket list.
Federation Square
Federation Square is a quintessential experience in Melbourne. Centred smack bang in the middle of the city, it sits right opposite Flinders Street Railway Station and St Paul’s Cathedral.
This iconic meeting place is woven with well-known art galleries, eclectic restaurants and buzzing corners. Fed Square also hosts a wide range of action-packed events on Christmas, New Year’s Eve, the Australian Open and the AFL Finals. Don’t miss the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), the Koorie Heritage Trust (KHT) and The Ian Potter Centre (NGV).
Street Art: Melbourne’s Iconic Laneways
Falling in love with Melbourne is easy, especially thanks to its character-packed streets.
The city is lined with unique stencil art, grand murals and mixed-media creations. The spectrum of street art here ranges from simple tags to jaw-dropping pieces. And the best part is, it’s ever-changing and ever-evolving.
Iconic laneway locations include Centre Place, Strachan Lane, Meyers Place, Drewery Lane, Pesgrave Place, Duckboard Place, AC/DC Lane, Guildford Lane, Presgrave Place, Union Lane, Tattersalls Lane, and Blender Lane. That’s a long list, I know. But if you only have time for one, make it Hosier Lane. Otherwise, find out more on this Laneways Tour.
State Library of Victoria
The State Library of Victoria is one of the best free things to do in Melbourne. With events, tours, exhibitions, art, books and more, it really is more than just a library. It’s an entire cultural experience!
Highlighting a huge haul of the city’s history, the State Library of Victoria opened in 1856. Walk around the reading rooms, admire the artwork in the galleries and spot unique finds in the exhibition spaces.
Oh yeah, and don’t miss the Aussie legend, Ned Kelly’s armour. Crowned as the oldest public library in Australia, this a must-see for anyone’s first time in Melbourne.
St Kilda
Theme parks, palm-lined beaches and a buzzing nightlife… What more could you ask for?
St Kilda is situated southeast of the CBD and sits on the cusp of the seashore. It’s well-known for Luna Park, Acland Street and the Palais Theatre, but there’s a heck of a lot more beneath the surface. Taste succulent seafood dishes in the restaurants on Barkly Street, go for a dip in the St Kilda Sea Baths or spend a summer’s afternoon swimming at St Kilda Beach.
Shop til you drop at the Sunday St Kilda Esplanade Arts and Craft Market and spot the little penguins at the St Kilda Breakwater. See all the historical and cultural highlights with this St Kilda Super Tour in Melbourne.
Queen Victoria Market
The Queen Victoria Market is a foodie’s haven. Downright. With over 140 years of history, this massive inner-city market mixes up a range of experiences.
Housing over 600 small businesses, this is the best place to shop for fresh, local and artisanal produce. Plus, there are plenty of hand-made products, souvenirs and snacks too. If you’re in Melbourne on a Wednesday evening, don’t miss out on the Night Market. This buzzing event boasts global street eats, bustling bars and live music, all evening long.
NGV (National Gallery of Victoria)
There are many places to travel in Melbourne, but this one sits right in the heart of the CBD. And it’s completely free, making it a must-see for budget-conscious travellers.
The National Gallery of Victoria is sandwiched next to the soaring Arts Centre on St Kilda Road. It’s filled with a fascinating collection of Asian, European, Oceanic and American art. There are over 70,000 works of art and you’ll find everything from temporary exhibitions to in-depth tours.
If you want to amp up the energy on your trip to Melbourne, don’t miss a late-night performance on a Friday evening. You can pair the sounds of local DJs with awe-inspiring art and scrumptious snacks.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Last but not least, the Royal Botanic Gardens! Home to a huge haul of verdant ferns, vibrant flowers and meticulously manicured gardens, this piece of paradise feels like the ultimate respite from the CBD.
If you’re a nature lover, the Royal Botanic Gardens is a must-see. Stroll around the winding paths and breathe in the fresh air as you enough one of the best free things to do in Melbourne. During the summertime, be sure to check out the outdoor cinema, theatre shows and art exhibitions. Don’t miss the Aboriginal Heritage Walk and learn about the Koolin nation and Aboriginal traditions.
If you want to get outside of the city more, check out this guide on the best day trips from Melbourne.
Best Places to Eat in Melbourne
When you travel to Melbourne, don’t forget to pack your appetite. Because this city takes food as seriously as it takes its sports. Hardcore!
Famous for its diverse culinary scene, you’ll find a mix of everything in the city. Melbourne is fringed with a fantastic fusion of districts, from the Asian restaurants in Chinatown to the Italian eateries in Lygon Street. For more options, don’t miss Victoria Street, Sydney Road, Chapel Street and Barkly Street.
Here’s a handful of the top places to eat in Melbourne:
A greasy burger at Easey’s, a rooftop train carriage with views of the CBD.
A drool-worthy pasta dish at Grossi Florentino, Bourke Street.
A fancy as f**k meal at Flower Drum in the CBD.
A pocket-friendly and appetite-quenching $5-dollar pizza at Lucky Coq, Prahran.
An afternoon filled with boozy brunch at Abacus, Prahran.
A splurge-worthy meal inside an old cathedral at ritzy Reine and La Rue, CBD.
A Thai meal at Colonel Tan’s, followed by a dance inside Melbourne’s famous nightclub, Revolver Upstairs.
Nightlife in Melbourne
This is one of my favourite things about living in Melbourne. The nightlife scene is unparalleled here, and it’s arguably the best in all of Australia.
Whether you’re a budget backpacker, a group of friends or a solo traveller in Melbourne, there’s something here for everyone. Just like New York, this city never sleeps and you’ll find everything from high-end clubs to rowdy underground raves. Get your dancing shoes on and boogie the night (or day) away at these popular places.
Best Nightclubs in Melbourne
The Night Cat, Fitzroy (great live music and events)
Revolver Upstairs, Prahran (warning - this club is not for the faint-hearted)
Sub Club, CBD (underground as f**k)
New Guernica, CBD (young, fun atmosphere)
161, Prahran (international travellers and expat hot spot)
Section 8, CBD (mix of local and international DJs)
Best Bars in Melbourne
Black Pearl, Fitzroy
Somewhere Bar, Prahran
Heartbreaker, CBD
Bar Ampere, CBD
Le Bon Ton, Collingwood
Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Whether you want to make an impression on your first date or get the party started with your crew, rooftop bars certainly come in no shortage. As an official nightlife nut’s haven, here are some of the best rooftop bars in Melbourne:
Toff in Town, Swanston Street (CBD)
Naked for Satan, Fitzroy
Fable Melbourne, Lonsdale Street (CBD)
The Loop, Meyers Place (CBD)
Good Heavens, Bourke Street (CBD)
Adelphi Hotel, Flinders Lane (CBD)
Blossom Rooftop Bar, Little Bourke Street (CBD)
Best Time to Visit Melbourne
Arguably, there’s no wrong time to travel to Melbourne. But the best time to visit comes down to your personal preferences, style and travel budget.
Melbourne is popular during the summer season, with December to February seeing the biggest crowds and hottest weather. This is the best time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities, action-packed events and fun festivals. Don’t forget to squeeze in a day trip to places like the Grampians, Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Great Ocean Road.
Melbourne’s winter season is from June to August and is the best choice for budget travellers. With cheaper rates on hotels, flights and activities, you can also enjoy fewer crowds too. The winter is a great time to visit if you’re interested in seeing museums and art galleries and indulging in the array of foodie experiences.
How to Get Around Melbourne
Next up in this Melbourne travel guide, we’re going to cover transportation, rideshare services and car rental. Seeing the top attractions is fairly straightforward as the city is well-connected, so here’s everything you need to know.
Trains, Trams, Buses & City Circle Tram
Victoria’s capital is home to an extensive public transport network that covers major landmarks, the surrounding suburbs and rural areas. With trains, trams and buses available throughout the city, you can easily plan your trip using the PTV (Public Transport Victoria) app. Before you travel, buy a Myki card from a train station or convenience store and top up your balance.
Walking & Bike Share
Melbourne is a walkable city, especially if you plan on spending most of your time in the CBD. Wander around the maze-like laneways, sip cocktails in the terrace-lined streets and strut at your own speed for sightseeing.
Speed things up on a shared bicycle using the Melbourne Bike Share app. If you’re a budget traveller, you can opt for a pocket-friendly day pass that costs as little as $3.00 AUD.
Car or Motorbike Rental
Renting a car in Melbourne offers more freedom than public transport or tours. With your own car, you can explore on your own schedule and make stops anywhere you want.
This is the best option if you want to do day trips to the Mornington Peninsula, Grampians and Phillip Island. Keep in mind that parking in the CBD is limited and traffic congestion can get a little out of hand. Plus, the price of fuel can put a big dent in your wallet.
Taxis and Ridesharing
Taxis are available in Melbourne, but they can be an expensive way of getting around if you use them frequently. I’d only recommend opting for taxis if you’re splitting the cost with other travellers. Otherwise, opt for budget-friendly ride-sharing alternatives like Uber and Didi.
Melbourne Airport
Whether you’re flying from Melbourne to Sydney or elsewhere abroad, you’re most likely arriving at the Melbourne Airport (MEL).
This major airport is located just 23 km from the CBD, making it a quick and convenient trip to your accommodation. Melbourne Airport is home to four different terminals as well as stores, souvenir shops, restaurants, bars, ATMs and other services. Once you arrive, you’ll have two different options:
SkyBus: The SkyBus is the best mode of transport for backpackers and budget-savvy travellers. This express bus service links the airport with destinations like Southbank, St Kilda and some of the surrounding suburbs. Tickets cost $19.00 AUD one-way or $36.00 AUD for a round-trip.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: This is the most convenient and comfortable option. If you’re travelling in a large group, as a couple or with a family, you can enjoy a 30-minute ride to the city centre. Standard taxi rates from Melbourne Airport usually cost around $60 to $70, but the total will depend on the traffic and time of day.
Where to Stay in Melbourne
Now that you know how to plan a trip to Melbourne, let’s cap off this guide with the best neighbourhoods and places to stay. Here are the top 11 areas to stay:
Melbourne CBD
Most Melbourne travel guides are centred around the CBD. The Central Business District is situated in the heart of Melbourne and is home to lush gardens, trendy restaurants and non-stop nightlife and shopping experiences. If you’re wondering where to stay in Melbourne CBD, you’ll find a mix of luxury hotels and serviced apartments.
Best Places to Stay in Melbourne CBD:
Budget ($): YTI Garden Hotel
Mid-range ($$): Meriton Suites King Street
Luxury ($$$): The Ritz Carlton
South Yarra
South Yarra boasts high-end hotels, upmarket stays and art deco apartments. Replete with cocktail bars, a delectable culinary scene and fashion boutiques on Chapel Street and Toorak Road, this is a spot that oozes luxury.
Best Places to Stay in South Yarra:
Budget ($): Davis Avenue Apartments
Mid-range ($$): Ovolo South Yarra
Luxury ($$$): The Lyall
Richmond
Located just east of the CBD, Richmond is a multicultural hub that's crowned with historic buildings, vibrant bars and famous music venues. If you’re interested in live music or seeing sports events at the MCG, Richmond is a great option.
Best Places to Stay in Richmond:
Budget ($): Lanbruk Richmond
Mid-range ($$): 381 Cremorne
Luxury ($$$): Caroline Serviced Apartments
Fitzroy
Filled with vintage stores, quirky bookstores and veritable vegan and vegetarian restaurants, this artsy inner-city suburb is well-known among locals as a hipster’s haven. Fitzroy is an ideal choice for creatives and young travellers looking for a place to stay in Melbourne.
Best Places to Stay in Fitzroy:
Budget ($): Comfort Apartments Royal Gardens
Mid-range ($$): Veriu Collingwood
Luxury ($$$): District Apartments Fitzroy
St Kilda
Sitting southeast of the city centre, St Kilda is steeped deep in seaside charm. With a thrilling theme park, salty sea baths and a buzzing waterfront district, you can take your pick between the array of guesthouses, backpacker hostels and apartments.
Best Places to Stay in St Kilda:
Budget ($): Saint Kilda Beach Hotel
Mid-range ($$): Quest St Kilda Bayside
Mid-range ($$): Sixty Two On Grey Serviced Apartments
Windsor & Prahran
My favourite suburbs in Melbourne, by far! Windsor and Prahran are coined as Melbourne’s bohemian capital and it’s not hard to fall in love here. With the street art, the style, the people and everything else that’s weird and wonderful about these two suburbs… You’ll encounter a mix of markets, nonpareil nightclubs, neon-lit bars and vintage shops.
Best Places to Stay in Windsor/Prahran:
Budget ($): Quest Prahran
Mid-range ($$): Art Series: The Cullen
Luxury ($$$): Fawkner Mansions Heritage Hotel
Carlton
Carlton is famous among Melburnians for its Italian flair. The iconic Lygon Street precinct is a must-see, so be sure to leave plenty of room in your stomach before heading to the restaurants and cafes here. You can expect to find boutique hotels and family-friendly homes.
Best Places to Stay in Carlton:
Budget ($): Melbourne Carlton Central Apartment Hotel
Mid-range ($$): Best Western Plus Travel Inn
Luxury ($$$): Zagame’s House
Williamstown
Sitting southwest of the CBD, Williamstown offers a wealth of luxury and waterfront accommodation options. This well-kept area in Melbourne is ideal for families, high-end travellers and couples.
Best Places to Stay in Williamstown:
Mid-range: ($$): Aligned Corporate Residences Williamstown
Mid-range ($$): Punthill Williamstown
Mid-range ($$): Quest Williamstown
Southbank
Sitting in the southern end of the Yarra River, Southbank boasts fine dining experiences and popular attractions. There are luxury apartments and upscale hotels, and it’s just a stone’s throw away from the Crown Casino Complex and Arts Centre.
Best Places to Stay in Southbank:
Mid-range ($$): Mercure Melbourne Southbank
Mid-range ($$): WRAP on Southbank
Luxury ($$$): Crown Towers Melbourne
Brunswick
Brunswick is the perfect slice of Melbourne’s alternative side. Replete with live music venues, verdant beer gardens and awe-inspiring art galleries, you can enjoy a mix of shopping, dining and cultural experiences here.
Best Places to Stay in Brunswick:
Budget ($): Brunswick Tower Hotel
Mid-range ($$): Artel Apartments Brunswick
Luxury ($$$): East Brunswick Hotel
Docklands
Let’s wind up this list of places to stay in Melbourne in the dazzling Docklands. Home to towering skyscrapers, premier apartment buildings and big-name hotels, this area combines convenience and luxury. If you choose to stay here, you’ll enjoy waterfront dining, famous landmarks and jaw-dropping vistas of the CBD.
Best Places to Stay in Docklands:
Budget ($): Nesuto Docklands
Mid-range ($$): Vibe Hotel Docklands
Luxury ($$$): Melbourne Marriott Docklands Hotel
Accessibility in Melbourne
Melbourne is coined as a traveller’s hot spot, with art, culture and culinary delights that could keep you entertained for days. Better yet, there is a wide array of accessible options too. You’ll find wheelchair-friendly accommodations, attractions, restaurants and shopping experiences spread throughout the city.
To help you locate accessible facilities on your trip to Melbourne, check out the City of Melbourne’s mobility map. Travellers Aid Australia also provides mobility equipment hire and recharge points, so be sure to see what’s available.
Melbourne Airport: Check out the disability assistance that’s available at Melbourne Airport
Getting around Melbourne: The majority of buses and trains in the city offer accessibility. Before you travel, find out everything you need to know and plan your trip on the Public Transport Victoria website
Wheelchair-Friendly Attractions: Some of the highlights include popular places like the Melbourne Zoo, National Gallery of Victoria and Scienceworks.
Now you know how to travel to Melbourne, but would you ever consider moving here?
There are many pros and cons of living in a place as dynamic and diverse as this. Among the array of advantages, you’ll enjoy the lifestyle, pay rates, events and more. But out of all the disadvantages, the cost of living definitely is a drawback. I’ve got plenty of in-depth content coming on my YouTube channel, so be sure to check it out.
FAQs
Now that we’re coming to the end of this guide, let’s finish things up with some frequently asked questions.
What is the best way to travel around Melbourne?
Trains are a quick, convenient and cost-effective way of travelling around the CBD and surrounding suburbs. Trams, buses, taxis and rideshare options are also available in Melbourne.
How many days do you need to see Melbourne?
I’d recommend setting aside at least four to five nights for your Melbourne itinerary. During this time, you’ll be able to see a handful of the highlights, eat at the top restaurants and do a few day trips too.
What is the best time to travel to Melbourne?
This all comes down to your preferences, That being said, the summertime is the most popular time to visit Melbourne. The spring, September to November, and autumn, March to May boast pleasant weather and affordable airfares. Plus, it’s a great time to see the parks and enjoy outdoor attractions.
What is the cheapest month to go to Melbourne?
Although this changes every year, May is usually the most affordable month to visit Melbourne. During the shoulder season, you’ll see fewer tourists and also score better airfare and accommodation prices.
How to Travel Melbourne
So, now you know how to travel Melbourne, what are you waiting for? Get planning your Aussie adventure today!