Things to do in Melbourne

Melbourne is a busy cosmopolitan hub with plenty of cultural activities to keep visitors entertained for several days. The galleries and museums are among the finest in Australia and cover a wide range of subjects. Several streets, neighbourhoods and markets are also well worth closer inspection, and don’t miss the world’s oldest zoo, which is still one of the world’s best.  

Federation Square

This conglomerate of attractions is centred around a massive plaza, paved with oddly shaped cobblestones and covered in imaginative architecture. Here you can find the Australian Centre for the Moving Image and the National Gallery of Victoria. Equally impressive is the glass Atrium and other extraordinary pieces of architecture which surround the square. Events are often staged at the 450-seat amphitheatre, while other events take place in the plaza and along the Yarra River.

Luna Park

Just south of the pier is one of Melbourne’s icons, the timeless Luna amusement park. Upon walking through the giant mouth which serves as the park’s entrance, visitors are whisked into a realm of carousels, ghost trains and pirate ships. The Scenic Railway, built in 1912, is the park’s most popular ride and claims to be the oldest operating roller coaster in the world. A number of notable music festivals are also held in the park throughout the year such as Push Over, held each March.

Melbourne Museum

Australia’s largest museum is a massive and wildly interesting collection of natural history. The many interactive displays and scientific exhibitions allow visitors a hands-on experience. One of the highlights is the award-winning Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander Centre, called the Bunjikata, where you can learn more about the natives of Australia. Other interesting exhibits include a real blue whale skeleton, a fascinating insect and butterfly collection with many living exhibits and an indoor rain forest. Phone: +61 3 13 11 02.

Melbourne Observation Deck

At the top of the highest building in the southern hemisphere, you can soak in the stunning 360-degree views of Melbourne and beyond. There’s a 20-minute film which explains what you’re looking at, but it’s just as easy to take a map up with you and get your bearings for yourself. Phone: +61 3 9629 8222.

Melbourne Zoo

The oldest zoo in the world was built way back in 1862, and is still considered one of the best facilities around. There are over 3,000 different animals here including all the native species from Australia as well as every major creature from other parts of the planet. Best of all, the wildlife is kept in natural habitats rather than steel cages. Highlights include the lowland gorillas, tree-top monkey displays and the amazing butterfly house. Phone: +61 3 9285 9300.

National Gallery of Victoria

This spectacular gallery in the heart of Federation Square has some of the best Aboriginal art on the continent, with some 20 rooms dedicated to Australian art made by colonists and Aboriginals. In the NGV International wing, you can see the finest collection of world art in the country. Architecturally, the building itself is also a work of art. Phone: +61 3 8662 1555.

Old Melbourne Gaol

Convicts played a major role in the formation of Australia and this tiny, cramped prison offers a spooky glimpse at what life was like for them. The collection of death masks and 19th century prison artefacts are eerie but interesting. For the adventurous, there’s a night tour every Sunday and Wednesday. Phone: +61 3 9663 7228.

Queen Victoria Market

For something different, head down to this Melbourne institution which covers several blocks of the city centre. The market has hundreds of indoor and outdoor stalls selling everything under the sun. A lot of it is pure junk, but if you’re willing to browse, you’ll get a real taste for the city and its highly diverse ethnic mix. Great food can also be had at the market, and a 2-hour Foodies Dream Tour is offered several times a week to help you explore the market’s food and heritage. Phone: +61 3 9269 5835.