What Are the Must-See Attractions to Visit in Melbourne?

The city of Melbourne, located in southeastern Australia, has become a favorite of travelers in the last decades thanks to its cosmopolitan and cultural mix, its landscapes and its industries. With so many options to explore, it can be difficult to decide what attractions to visit during your trip. Knowing how to match timing, budget and your preferences is key to allocate your time wisely and make the most of a trip. In this article, we will review some of the must-see attractions of Melbourne that are sure to impress you.

Federation Square

Located in the heart of the city, Federation Square is a modern piece of architecture that stands out and quickly became the background of many social media posts. Created by the renowned firm Lab Architecture Studio and opened in 2002, the impressive building hosts nearly 10 million visitors each year. Inside, you’ll find different spaces for events, art exhibitions and concerts, and diner options for every taste. This is one of the top attractions to visit in Melbourne if you are looking for photo opportunities, or a spot to have a quite lunch or dinner surrounded by modern art.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens are located close to the city centre and all their 38 hectares (94 acres) of natural reserves are free to enter. Its green spaces are beautifully landscaped and feature a big variety of trees and plants from around the world, in different areas such as the Arthur Rylah Ornithology Centre and the Victorian Education Centre. TBone area also provides more than 3 kilometres of trails you can walk while enjoying the native wildlife and birds that inhabit the area. For those who prefer to ride, bicycles are available to rent at the south side of the gardens.

Flinders Street Station

Near Federation Square and just steps from the iconic Yarra River lies Flinders Street Station, built in 1910 and one of Melbourne’s main cultural icons. Flinders Street Station was declared an historic monument by the Heritage Council Of Victoria in 2005 and its clock tower is one of the highest points in the city. The station is also a transportation hub for trains coming from different parts of Victoria and featuring one of the longest platforms in Australia.

Shrine Of Remembrance

The Shrine Of Remembrance, charmed by the public since it first opened in 1934, was built as a memorial of those who lost their lives in World War I. Located in Kings Domain Gardens, the shrine stands out with its impressive size and golden dome since it is the largest war memorial in Australia. This remembrance shrine offers guided tours of the elements that constitute its interior while providing a greater sense of awareness of Australian’s military history.

The Great Ocean Road

Finally, a visit to Melbourne wouldn’t be complete without a stop at The Great Ocean Road. This 243 kilometres (151 miles) long stretch that begins at Torquay located southwest of Melbourne, is recognised worldwide for its breathtaking scenery when driving along the coastline with views of deep blue waters, sandbanks, beaches and even with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting such as seals and dolphins. For a more joyful way to experience one of Australia’s most iconic attractions, Melbourne Guided Night-Time Food Walking Tour & Beer, an activity organised by GetYourGuide*, is available so you can get an unforgettable glimpse of Melbourne’s nightlife while tasting traditional dishes and local beer.

The best way to explore Melbourne is by finding the attractions that better suite your travel style. Whether it be historical monuments, stunning landscapes or getting to know its culture through restaurants and dishes, Melbourne has something for everyone. Think about what kind of experiences you are looking for during your travels and make sure you don’t miss these top attractions throughout your sightseeing. With this advice you are sure to get a better value-for-money experience that precisely fits your taste!

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The Insider’s Guide to Melbourne: Uncovering Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

As a local of Melbourne, I can attest that the city has a lot more to offer than just the common tourist spots. Here are some of the hidden gems and unique experiences that you shouldn’t miss while exploring Melbourne.

Local Attractions: Uncovering Melbourne’s Hidden Gems

While Melbourne is famous for its iconic landmarks and attractions like the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Flinders Street Station, a few other lesser-known destinations that only locals would know make the list of must-see places. These include:

– The Abbotsford Convent: This magnificent historical site has been transformed into a creative precinct that hosts art exhibitions, live performances, and a popular farmers market every month.

– The Block Arcade: This Victorian-era shopping arcade is home to some amazing local businesses selling everything from chocolates and coffee to designer fashion and jewelry.

– The Botanic Gardens: This picturesque garden spans over 36 hectares and features a variety of plant species from around the world, local wildlife, and is a perfect spot for a picnic.

Dining Spots: Exploring Melbourne’s Food Culture

Melbourne’s dining scene is incredible, and the city is home to some of the best restaurants, cafes, and bars in Australia. However, there are a few lesser-known spots that offer a unique dining experience and a glimpse into the city’s food culture.

– Queen Victoria Market: This historic market has been selling fresh produce, meat, seafood, and handmade goods since the 1800s. A foodie’s heaven, it offers a food fair every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday that is not to be missed.

– Chinatown: Home to some of the city’s most authentic and delicious Asian restaurants, Chinatown is a must-visit for anyone looking to sample some of Melbourne’s finest cuisine.

– The Kettle Black: This chic cafe in South Melbourne is known for its exceptional coffee, innovative brunch menu, and photogenic decor. Perfect for those who love brunch with a side of Instagramming.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Melbourne’s Traditions

Melbourne is a cultural melting pot, and the city is known for its year-round festivals, art, music, and customs. Here are some of the cultural experiences that should be on your list of must-do activities:

– The NGV: The National Gallery of Victoria is the oldest and largest public art museum in Australia and features a permanent collection of over 70,000 works and some amazing exhibitions.

– The Australian Centre for the Moving Image: ACMI hosts exhibitions, film screenings, and talks about the art, science, and culture of moving images, and is a must-visit for film and TV buffs.

– The Melbourne International Comedy Festival: This annual event is one of the largest comedy festivals in the world and features hundreds of shows from local and international comedians.

Local History: Discover Melbourne’s Fascinating Past

No guide to Melbourne would be complete without mentioning its rich history. Here are a few stories that capture some of Melbourne’s compelling past:

– The Ned Kelly Story: Ned Kelly is a legendary bushranger whose capture and execution in 1880 is one of Australia’s most significant historical events. Visit the Kelly Gang’s hideout in the town of Glenrowan and learn about this fascinating story.

– The Eureka Rebellion: In 1854, miners in the Ballarat goldfields staged an uprising against the colonial government that resulted in 27 deaths. Visit the Eureka Stockade Centre and learn about this event that shaped Melbourne’s history.

– The Haunted Melbourne Ghost Tour: Take a spine-tingling journey through Melbourne’s spooky past and explore the city’s most haunted locations. You’ll hear stories of ghosts, murder, and mayhem that will send shivers down your spine.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences You Won’t Forget

Finally, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will offer readers an unforgettable and unique experience in Melbourne:

– Rent a bike and explore Melbourne’s many bike paths and bike-friendly streets. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

– Take a hot air balloon ride over Melbourne’s stunning landscape at sunrise. It’s a breathtaking experience and a unique way to see the city.

– Visit the Australian Grand Prix and experience the thrill of F1 racing. It’s one of the biggest events on Melbourne’s annual calendar.

In conclusion, Melbourne is a dynamic and fascinating city that has a lot to offer tourists. Hopefully, this insider’s guide has provided some inspiration for exploring some of the hidden gems and unique experiences that make Melbourne such a special place.