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There are an array of 1. Federation Square – Melbourne
Federation Square is a vibrant cultural center and public square located in the heart of Melbourne.
What to see or do: – Admire the unique modern architecture of the buildings that make up Federation Square.
– Visit the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, an art gallery featuring Australian art and Aboriginal works.
Don’t miss: – The daily free guided tours of Federation Square.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the square early in the morning or late at night for a peaceful and less crowded experience.
2. Eureka Tower – Melbourne
Eureka Tower is a 297.3-metre skyscraper located in the Southbank precinct of Melbourne.
What to see or do: Take a ride up to the observation deck, known as the Eureka Skydeck, on level 88 for stunning panoramic views of the city.
Don’t miss: The Edge experience on the Eureka Skydeck, where visitors can step onto a glass cube that extends from the building, providing a vertigo-inducing view 88 floors above ground level.
Insider travel tips: Visit just before sunset to witness the city transform from day to night as the lights begin to twinkle.
Also, purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long queues at the ticket counter.
3. Flinders Street Station – Melbourne
Flinders Street Station is Melbourne’s most iconic railway station and one of the city’s most recognized landmarks.
The station serves as a transportation hub, connecting local, regional and interstate trains, as well as trams and buses.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the historic building and admire its stunning architecture, including the soaring dome, arched entrance and grand clock tower.
Catch a train to explore Melbourne’s suburbs or regional Victoria, or hop on one of the city’s iconic trams to explore the CBD.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the station’s interior, with its elegant Victorian-era fixtures and fittings, including its famous ballroom and ornate tiles.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the many cafes or restaurants located within the station.
Insider travel tips: Take a free guided tour of Flinders Street Station and learn about its rich history and heritage.
Look out for the famous “ghost platform” that sits idle next to platform and if you’re lucky, you might catch one of the many events and exhibitions held in the station’s ballrooms and galleries throughout the year.
4. Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) – Melbourne
The Melbourne Cricket Ground, or MCG, is one of the largest and most iconic stadiums in the world.
What to see or do: The MCG hosts a range of sporting events, from cricket to Australian rules football, and can hold up to 100,000 spectators.
Take a guided tour of the stadium, visit the National Sports Museum, or watch a game featuring one of Melbourne’s major sporting teams.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch one of the major events held at the MCG, such as the Boxing Day Test match or the AFL Grand Final.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance for major events, and arrive early to avoid crowds.
Consider taking public transportation to the stadium, as parking can be difficult to find.
5. Shrine of Remembrance – Melbourne
A war memorial and a monument to honor the sacrifices made by Australians during the First World War.
What to see or do: Climb up to the Shrine’s balcony to witness the stunning panoramic views of Melbourne.
Attend the daily Last Post Ceremony and explore the numerous galleries and exhibitions that display the Australian military history.
Don’t miss: The Remembrance Garden which showcases the 89,000 poppies made by volunteers in the memory of each individual who sacrificed their lives serving their nation.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Shrine during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, and attend the Last Post Ceremony at dusk for a more intimate and solemn experience.
Additionally, use public transport as parking in the area can be challenging.
6. Royal Exhibition Building – Melbourne
A World Heritage-listed building located in Carlton, Melbourne that was built in 1879 for the International Exhibition.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about its history and significance.
The building also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including expos, graduations, and cultural festivals.
Don’t miss: The Great Hall, which features a stunning dome ceiling and ornate decorations.
Also, be sure to check out the Museum Victoria exhibits in the west wing.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the annual Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show for an impressive display of floral artistry.
Take public transportation to avoid the parking fees, and bring a camera for some great photo opportunities.
7. State Library Victoria – Melbourne
State Library Victoria is a world-renowned cultural institution and the oldest public library in Australia, located in the heart of Melbourne.
What to see or do: The library is home to over 2 million books, newspapers, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and other historic documents.
Highlights include the iconic domed reading room, exhibitions on Australian history and culture, and special events such as author talks, film screenings, and concerts.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the original gold rush era “Welcome Stranger” nugget on display, weighing in at a whopping 72 kilograms.
Also, explore the library’s extensive digitized collections, including a vast collection of historical photographs of Melbourne and Victoria.
Insider travel tips: Admission to the library is free and open to the public, so take advantage of the opportunity to explore this cultural gem.
For a unique and immersive experience, join one of the library’s free guided tours or participate in a workshop or class.
And don’t forget to stop by the library’s café for some refreshments and fantastic views of the city skyline.
8. Melbourne Museum – Melbourne
The Melbourne Museum is a popular museum that showcases cultural and natural history exhibits.
What to see or do:
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9. Queen Victoria Market – Melbourne
An iconic and bustling open-air market located in the heart of Melbourne, Australia.
What to see or do: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in an array of fresh produce, meat, seafood, baked goods, and specialty products.
You can also shop for souvenirs and local crafts, or grab a quick bite at one of the many food stalls.
Don’t miss: The historic Meat Hall, where you can find some of the best meat vendors in the city.
Also, make sure to check out the Deli Hall for a range of delicious cheeses and cured meats.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and nab the freshest produce.
Don’t forget to bring your own shopping bag and expect to haggle for a better price.
Finally, keep an eye out for special events such as night markets and live music performances.
10. Old Melbourne Gaol – Melbourne
The Old Melbourne Gaol is a historic prison-turned-museum located in the heart of Melbourne.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the gaol to see the cells where infamous Australian criminals, such as Ned Kelly, were held.
The gaol also features interactive exhibits on the history of crime and punishment in Victoria.
Don’t miss: The museum’s most chilling exhibit is the infamous “night watchman” who tells the story of his fatal encounter with one of the gaol’s most notorious inmates.
Insider travel tips: For a truly immersive experience, visitors can book a “ghost tour” of the gaol at night.
Be sure to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, as the gaol can get cold and the tour involves a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
11. Block Arcade – Melbourne
The Block Arcade is a popular heritage shopping arcade in Melbourne that is well known for its beautiful architecture and unique stores.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the arcade and admire the stunning Victorian-era architecture and intricate details, as well as explore the various specialty shops and cafes.
The arcade is particularly known for its fashion boutiques, jewelry shops, and upscale food vendors.
Don’t miss: The arcade’s famous Hopetoun Tea Rooms, which are known for their decadent cakes and elegant high tea services.
Also be sure to look up at the beautiful stained-glass ceiling and mosaic tiles depicting Australian flora and fauna.
Insider travel tips: The arcade can get busy, so try to plan your visit for a weekday instead of the weekend.
If you’re a fan of architecture, consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the history and design of the arcade.
12. Parliament House – Melbourne
Iconic government building in Melbourne that houses the Victorian Parliament.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the grand chambers of the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council, view historic portraits and artifacts in the Parliamentary Library, and take a guided tour of the building.
Don’t miss: The Queen’s Hall, a majestic space that connects the building’s two chambers and features an impressive display of Victorian art.
Insider travel tips: Visitors can watch parliamentary proceedings from the public galleries when Parliament is in session, and can also attend free public lectures and events hosted at the building.
Make sure to check the parliamentary calendar ahead of time.
13. Royal Botanic Gardens – Melbourne
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a sprawling parkland and one of the top-ranked tourist attraction in Melbourne, cultivating a vast collection of plants from all over the globe.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the lovely flower beds, rare plant collections, and tranquil lakes or enjoy family picnics on the lush grassy lawns.
Besides this, a trip to the Garden includes exploring the Tropical Glasshouse, the Arid Garden, and the Herb Garden. It’s a perfect place to relax, unwind, and discover incredible flora all year round.
Don’t miss: The Garden’s Ornamental Lake, which is home to a wealth of birdlife, including black swans, coots, moorhens, and dusky moorhens.
Moreover, the Guilfoyle’s Volcano, a stunning garden art structure featuring an extinct volcano that offers fabulous views across the city skyline.
Insider travel tips: – The Gardens offer free guided walks daily at 11 am from the Visitor Centre.
14. St Paul’s Cathedral – Melbourne
A historic Anglican cathedral located in Melbourne’s central business district.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive architecture of the cathedral, including the ornate stained glass windows and the grand organ. Attend a service or a concert.
Don’t miss: Climb to the top of the central tower for stunning views of the city.
Insider travel tips: Check the website for the schedule of services and events. Photography is not allowed inside the cathedral.
15. Melbourne Town Hall – Melbourne
Melbourne Town Hall is a majestic, heritage-listed building in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. Completed in 1870, it serves as a town hall and a popular venue for events and concerts.
What to see or do: Visitors can take guided tours of the town hall, which includes access to the auditorium and the historic pipe organ. The council chamber features impressive stained glass windows and ornate woodwork.
There are also art displays and exhibitions to check out.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a look at the Grand Organ, one of the largest pipe organs in the world. The organ was built in 1929 and has over 10,000 pipes, with a sound that is truly awe-inspiring.
The Main Hall is also worth checking out, with its high ceilings and grand stage.
Insider travel tips: Guided tours are available daily and last around 30 minutes. Make sure to book ahead as these tours can be quite popular.
The Melbourne Town Hall also hosts a range of events, from weddings to musical performances, so it’s worth checking out their events calendar before your visit.
16. The Great Ocean Road – Victoria
A 243-kilometer stretch of road along the southeastern coast of Australia in Victoria.
What to see or do: Marvel at the stunning coastal landscape, including the iconic Twelve Apostles rock formations. Take a dip at the pristine beaches or have a swim with dolphins.
Visit the Otway National Park, spot koalas or enjoy a scenic walk through the lush rainforest.
Don’t miss: A visit to Loch Ard Gorge, where you can see the remains of a shipwrecked vessel over 130 years old. See the charming seaside towns along the road and their unique local businesses.
Insider travel tips: Take your time to explore, as there’s plenty to discover. Pack snacks and drinks as amenities can be scarce along the way.
Consider going out of peak tourist season to avoid crowds on this popular driving route.
17. Sovereign Hill – Ballarat
Sovereign Hill is an outdoor museum located in Ballarat, Victoria that depicts the life during the Victorian gold rush in the 1850s.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a step back in time and experience the gold rush era through various activities and displays. Visit the goldfields and pan for real gold, explore the underground mines, and watch a spectacular gold pour.
Don’t miss: The Blood on the Southern Cross sound and light show offers dramatic storytelling and spectacular special effects. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the rebellion and eventual end of the Eureka Stockade.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to grab a map at the entrance and plan your day accordingly. The park is vast, so wear comfortable shoes and pack plenty of water.
If you plan to visit multiple times, consider purchasing a multi-entry pass to save money. Finally, don’t forget your camera to capture great memories of your visit to Sovereign Hill.
18. Port of Echuca – Echuca
The Port of Echuca is a historic area located on the Murray River in Echuca, Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: – Take a ride on a paddle steamer and explore the Murray River.
Don’t miss: – The PS Emmylou paddle steamer, which is the only wood-fired steam-driven paddle steamer in the world.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re interested in history, consider taking a guided tour or visiting during one of the town’s heritage events.
19. Bendigo Art Gallery – Bendigo
Bendigo Art Gallery is a renowned Australian visual arts museum located in the historic regional city of Bendigo, Victoria.
What to see or do: The gallery hosts an impressive collection of Australian art, including works from the colonial period through to contemporary art. It also features important works from international artists and regularly exhibits a diverse range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The gallery’s permanent collection holds many notable works, including several pieces from Australian icon Sidney Nolan, as well as a large display commemorating the Chinese pioneers who played a major role in developing the Australian goldfields.
Insider travel tips: – Check out the museum’s website for information on current and upcoming exhibitions, admission, and opening hours.
20. Yarra Valley wineries – Yarra Valley
Yarra Valley is a renowned wine region located in Victoria, Australia. The region boasts of lush green vineyards, picturesque landscapes, and world-class wineries.
What to see or do: Wine tasting – Visit any of the numerous wineries in the region and taste some of their award-winning wines.
Don’t miss: Do not miss out on a visit to the Domaine Chandon winery, which is famous for its sparkling wines. Take a stroll through the vineyards and enjoy the panoramic views of the valley.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds and have a more intimate experience.
21. Puffing Billy Railway – Dandenong Ranges
Puffing Billy Railway is a historic steam train that runs through the scenic Dandenong Ranges near Melbourne, Australia.
What to see or do: Take a ride on the train and enjoy stunning views of the forests and mountains from the open-sided carriages. You can also stop off at various stations along the way to explore the local towns and attractions.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the journey is crossing the iconic trestle bridge near Belgrave station, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, try to book your tickets in advance and visit on a weekday. Also, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the amazing scenery along the way.
22. Melbourne Star Observation Wheel – Melbourne
The Melbourne Star Observation Wheel is a giant Ferris wheel located in Melbourne’s Docklands area that provides panoramic views of the city from a height of 120 meters.
What to see or do: Enjoy a 30-minute ride on the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and experience breathtaking views of Melbourne’s skyline and surrounding areas. The cabins are air-conditioned, and audio commentary is available in multiple languages for tourists.
Don’t miss: The lighting display of the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel is a sight to behold. The lighting changes colors every night and can be seen from miles away.
Also, don’t forget to take pictures with the stunning views of the city.
Insider travel tips: To avoid long queues, it is better to purchase the tickets online beforehand.
The best time to visit the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel is during the sunset and after dusk, when the city lights start to illuminate.
23. St Kilda Beach and Pier – Melbourne
St Kilda Beach is a popular seaside getaway located just 6km from Melbourne’s city center. The beach is situated along a scenic esplanade that features a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
What to see or do: There are plenty of activities to enjoy at St Kilda Beach, including surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
The beach is also home to a range of events and festivals throughout the year, including the St Kilda Festival and the Luna Park Summer Series.
Make sure to take a stroll down the historic St Kilda Pier, which offers stunning views of the coastline and the city.
Don’t miss: If you’re visiting St Kilda Beach, make sure to check out Luna Park, the iconic amusement park that has been entertaining visitors since 1912.
You can also explore the St Kilda Botanical Gardens or take a scenic bike ride down the beachfront bike trail.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit St Kilda Beach is during the summer months (December-February) when the weather is warm and sunny.
24. Melbourne Aquarium – Melbourne
Melbourne Aquarium is an impressive indoor aquatic attraction located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a vast range of underwater exhibits showcasing diverse marine life from around the world. You can enjoy interactive encounters with creatures like penguins, rays, and crocodiles.
Prepare to be amazed by ocean magic and underwater adventures.
Don’t miss: The massive Oceanarium tunnel that allows you to walk beneath giant stingrays, sharks, and sea turtles. Get up close and personal with Gentoo penguins and King Penguins during feeding time.
Don’t forget to visit the interactive Touch Pool, where you can touch and learn about the sea creatures that inhabit rockpools.
Insider travel tips:
25. Healesville Sanctuary – Healesville
Healesville Sanctuary is a zoo-like animal sanctuary in Healesville, Victoria, Australia. It works towards the conservation of native Australian wildlife and features a variety of species.
What to see or do: If you’re interested in wildlife conservation and care, there’s plenty to see and learn at Healesville Sanctuary. You can witness the beauty of Australian animals such as kangaroos, koalas, wombats, platypus, Tasmanian devils and more.
The sanctuary provides different kinds of activities like daily shows and keeper talks.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Australian Wildlife Health Centre at the sanctuary, where you can see veterinarians and nurses caring for sick and injured animals.
Another highlight is the Spirits of the Sky bird show, where you can experience the thrill of witnessing some of Australia’s native birds in flight.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and make the most of your day at the sanctuary.
26. Phillip Island Nature Parks – Phillip Island
Phillip Island Nature Parks is a conservation area, home to an array of Australian wildlife, including penguins, seals and koalas.
What to see or do: Penguin Parade – watch the daily parade of little penguins as they make their way from the sea to their burrows on the beach.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the daily penguin parade, a unique and unforgettable experience, as the world’s smallest penguin species waddle across the beach to their burrows.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets online in advance to avoid the long queue.
27. Werribee Open Range Zoo – Werribee
The Werribee Open Range Zoo is a conservation park located in Werribee, Victoria. The zoo allows guests to experience an African-style safari within Australia.
What to see or do: The zoo is home to a variety of African animals, including lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and rhinoceroses.
Visitors can take a safari tour, either by bus or on foot, to see the animals up close in their natural habitat.
Additionally, the zoo offers educational programs and experiences such as animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the lions up close, as they are often seen lounging on the grass near the viewing platform.
The hippopotamus enclosure is also a must-visit as they can be watched swimming underwater and basking in the sun.
Insider travel tips: – For an even more immersive experience, visitors can book an overnight safari tour, where they can listen to the sounds of the African savanna at nightfall.
28. The Royal Arcade – Melbourne
The Royal Arcade is an iconic shopping arcade located in the heart of Melbourne’s central business district.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the arcade and browse through the wide range of boutique shops and designer stores. The arcade’s beautiful Victorian architecture and stained-glass windows also make it an Instagram-worthy spot for photos.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the giant statue of Gog and Magog, the mythical guardians of London’s Guildhall, which chime on the hour. Also, make sure to indulge in some delicious handmade chocolates from the famous Koko Black chocolatier.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit the arcade during the weekdays, especially in the morning before lunchtime.
For those interested in history, there are free guided tours available on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 pm, which provide a fascinating insight into the arcade’s past.
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