Whether you’re new to Melbourne or you’re wondering where to take a friend that’s passing through the city, there are plenty of sights to explore that are conveniently located within a short distance from each other, for an overall experience of the city’s must-see highlights.
1. Federation Square & Flinders Street Station
Flinders Street Station is an architectural delight and central to the arts hub of the CBD. Grab a bite to eat and relax in Federation Square, and visit the city’s information centre, where you can fill your bags with leaflets on attractions within the city and greater Victoria for longer stays in the area.
2. Hosier & Degraves Laneways
Tucked away in the city centre’s iconic laneways, the popular Hosier Lane is famous for its ever-changing display of street art. Nearby, Degraves St features an abundance of cafes and restaurants with delicious treats for your tastebuds.
3. National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI)
Sitting next door to Federation Square you’ll find AMCI, a museum for movie-lovers. The gallery houses the original copy of scripts, props and more on historically revered Australian history. The centre is also a hub for the curious and nostalgic, with a range of vintage video games and film equipment dating back to the birth of the moving image.
4. Royal Botanic Gardens
Within the bustling city of Melbourne’s inner city, the Royal Botanic Gardens provides a picturesque escape from the crowds, where you can sit and soak up the sun among the vast array of exotic flora.
5. St. Kilda
St. Kilda’s beach is a popular destination for those staying in the city to enjoy a day by the sea. In the evening (preferably in Winter), walk along the boardwalk and see the local colony Fairy Penguins.
6. Victoria Markets
A perfect Sunday session in the city isn’t complete without meandering through Melbourne’s largest street market.
7. Lui Bar at Vue de Monde
Take in all of Melbourne from Lui Bar, which overlooks the entire city. Fine food, service and atmosphere add to the breathtaking scenery.
8. Ponyfish Island
Under the boardwalk, Ponyfish Island serves the river & skyline scenery in combination with a selection of classic cocktails.
9. Melbourne Zoo
Located in Parkville, the Melbourne Zoo is Australia’s oldest zoo and is home to over 300 species. A day trip to experience the wildlife is a delightful retreat from the bustling city centre.
10. Brunswick Street
Take a walk down Brunswick Street and window-shop the bohemian stores that line the street. You might also be lucky enough to catch one of the many street festivals that run throughout the year.
