City breaks are short and sweet, so it’s a good idea to know how to make the most of them. Here’s what to do in Melbourne, Australia, if you’re only there for a couple of days.
Yup, Australia’s second-biggest city is a super popular destination. To me, Melbourne has a quirky, European vibe and is very different from its younger sister, Sydney. I call Sydney the younger sister and Melbourne the mature, older sister, as that’s the vibes both cities give off (to me, anyway!)
Plus, it’s consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities, and the dining scene here is one of the best in the world. And even though Sydney has my heart – I still carry a torch for Melbourne.
Where to stay in Melbourne?
We stayed at The Adelphi Hotel on Flinders Lane. This is a super-stylish and popular hotel in the city. The rooftop pool is classy, and the rooms are very cool.
The Langham Melbourne is another fab place to stay – it’s located along the Yarra River, and many of the rooms offer incredible city views.
Is Melbourne worth visiting for a weekend?
Absolutely! Melbourne is a fantastic destination for a weekend getaway. Known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse foodie scene, and unique European-esque architecture, the city offers plenty to explore in a short time frame.
Begin your weekend with a stroll through the picturesque Royal Botanic Gardens, where you can have a picnic amongst the lush greenery.
For your art and culture fix, visit the National Gallery of Victoria, which boasts an impressive collection of international and local artworks. And in the evening, you could take a sunset cruise along the Yarra River, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city skyline. For a unique dinner experience, check out the hidden laneways that are filled with charming cafes and restaurants. FYI, we really rate Coda Melbourne.
How many days is ideal for Melbourne?
Although you likely only have a weekend to spend in Melbourne (hence why you’re reading this article), I highly recommend allowing 5 days in Melbourne to ensure you get to see its best bits without rushing. With 5 days, you’ll also be able to go further afield to cool spots like the Great Ocean Road and the Yarra Valley.
How much money do you need a day in Melbourne?
We probably spent around $200 AUD each per day, which included our hotel, two meals out per day (breakfast was included at our hotel), and an activity per day.
If you’re on a budget, you could get away with spending little over $100 AUD per day – that is, if you stay in a hostel, cook in, and do mostly free activities.
When should I visit Melbourne?
Hmm, the answer depends on what you want to get from your experience in Melbourne, but as a general rule of thumb, I’d say that the Australian spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) are good times to check out the city.
During these seasons, the city enjoys mild and pleasant weather, making it perfect for exploring Melbourne’s vibrant neighborhoods, lush parks, and cultural festivals. Spring brings blooming gardens and lively events like the Melbourne Cup, while autumn offers crisp air and stunning foliage in places like the Dandenong Ranges.
Unique Things to Do With Your Weekend in Melbourne
Watch Comedy at Spleen Bar
If you’re looking for some side-splitting entertainment, then make sure that you head on over to Spleen Bar for some free stand-up. The bar, at the top of Bourke, is totally unpretentious, but it has gained a reputation for itself over the last fifteen years for its quirky and, often, hilarious acts.
Comedians who frequent the venue always have new material, and the quality is consistently high. What’s more, the drinks aren’t bad, either. And they’re cheap!
A ticket costs $12 AUD for two hours of laughs.
See the City from High Above at Melbourne Skydeck
Melbourne Skydeck is the perfect vantage point to see the sprawling city in all its glory! Situated on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower, it proudly holds the title of the highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere.
From the high-up viewpoint, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and beyond, with highlights such as the Yarra River, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the distant Dandenong Ranges. The Skydeck also features “The Edge,” a glass cube that juts out from the tower, offering a unique experience for those seeking a bit of a thrill.
A general admission ticket costs $39 AUD – it’s more if you want to do “The Edge”.
Try an All-Australian Hamburger
We tend to think of the USA as the hamburger capital of the world, but down under, they’re also big beef eaters. Of course, in a city the size of Melbourne, there are plenty of places you can go for burger patties, but one of the best is Easey’s joint down in Collingwood. It serves over-the-top burgers (and other snacks), designed to tickle your taste buds in ways they’ve never been excited before.
What’s more, it’s one of those joints where it really doesn’t matter which burger you choose. They’re all good. There are even plant-based versions if you prefer how you feel after eating pea protein to regular beef.
Try Paddleboarding at Black Rock
If you haven’t quite got the hang of surfing yet but still want to have fun on the water, then you might want to try your hand at paddleboarding at Black Rock. Nestled along the stunning coastline of Port Phillip Bay, Black Rock is renowned for its picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters. The gentle waves make it an ideal spot for those new to paddleboarding, while the more experienced can venture further out to explore the scenic coastline and the iconic Black Rock Jetty.
Luckily, there are plenty of instructors and hire shops here, providing you with everything you need for a fun and rewarding experience.
While you’re there, be sure to check out HMVS Cerberus, the nearby 1870s battleship, scuttled nearly a century ago to provide shelter for the local yacht club.
Learn Something New at the Melbourne Museum
The Melbourne Museum boasts an impressive array of exhibits, including the enthralling Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, which provides insights into Indigenous Australian culture and history.
You can also explore the Science and Life Gallery, where you’ll marvel at the skeletons of prehistoric creatures and learn about the biodiversity of Victoria. The museum also features the Melbourne Gallery, which showcases the city’s evolution, and the Forest Gallery, a living exhibit replicating a Victorian temperate forest.
See the Amazing Art at the National Gallery of Victoria
This is the oldest and most visited public art museum in the country. Established in 1861, it houses an extensive and diverse collection of over 75,000 works spanning centuries and continents.
It’s worth noting that the National Gallery of Victoria (also known as the NGV) is split into two sites: the NGV International on St Kilda Road, which focuses on international art, and The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square, which is dedicated to Australian art.
Experience a traditional Aussie Breakfast at Collingwood Children’s Farm
Collingwood Children’s Farm is a great place to take kids to milk cows, ride ponies, and feed the chickens. However, it’s also popular among adults for its café, a venue that serves surprisingly hearty and delicious food. Chefs cook everything from scratch and source all their ingredients locally. Everything they pile on your plate is delicious, no matter what you order.
Buy Some Tailored Jeans
Melbourne is replete with clothes shops selling generic pants designed for the “average” person. For the most part, we put up with these options, but in Melbourne, you don’t have to. Today, there are several stores that will custom-make and tailor your jeans for you so that they fit perfectly.
Take Dejour Jeans, for instance. Custom-fitting costs around $75 AUD and can usually be done same-day. You go in the morning, get measured up, and then return in the evening to find your new, custom-made pair of jeans waiting for you. Just be warned, though: it can get rather busy. Be prepared to wait in line.
Watch Formula 1 Racing
Melbourne is home to the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix, which takes over the city every March. The action takes place down at the Albert Park track, where superstar drivers duke it out for global supremacy.
There’s also plenty going on off the track as well, including brand activations, drinks, and food vendors looking to sell new concepts to an experimental international audience.
Who knows, you might even find yourself rubbing shoulders with F1 champions!
Check out Toff In Town
Toff in Town is one of Melbourne’s poshest and most celebrated bars. The venue features private booth bars, plus plenty of space for dancing. There’s also a red-curtained room that has played host to talent from far and wide, both Australian and international.
Those looking for a better view might want to head up the stairs to Toff in Town’s rooftop bar. Here, you can marvel at the sheer scale of the city and its beautiful architecture.
See an Australian Football Game
AFL has a different character from the American leagues. But no matter what’s going on on the pitch, you can still have a great time in the stands.
And with Melbourne being the birthplace of Aussie Rules football, attending a match at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or Marvel Stadium (formerly Etihad Stadium) is a must for sports enthusiasts. The atmosphere is electric, with passionate fans donning their team’s colors, cheering, and chanting as they watch the fast-paced action unfold on the field.
Sit down, cozy up, and then order a hot doughnut and beer. Shout your head off, even if you don’t care who’s going to win, and generally let off steam.
Wander Through the Botanical Gardens
These gardens cover a whopping 94 acres and feature a diverse collection of over 8,500 plant species from around the world. Visitors can explore themed areas such as the Australian Forest Walk, the Arid Garden, and the tranquil Fern Gully.
Try a Parma
Lastly, you might want to try a parma, a rare local Australian delicacy. Lol 🙂
Parmas are crispy chicken schnitzel with slices of smoked ham, Napoli sauce, and topped with melted cheese. Usually, they come with a side salad and chips, but sometimes on their own.
Thanks for reading!
I really hope you enjoyed reading about my favorite things to do in Melbourne. It honestly is one of my favorite cities in Australia. I just love its quirkiness, and I can’t wait to return soon!
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Last Updated on January 10, 2026 by snaphappytravel