Melbourne 2025 Guide: Must-see attractions, local cuisine, and practical tips! | Trip.com

Savor Authentic Aussie Flavors

Bite into Melbourne's signature dishes, like airy pavlova with kiwi and cream, grilled kangaroo, or meat pies from Queen Victoria Market's stalls. Savor fresh oysters at South Melbourne Market or fish and chips by St Kilda Beach. Taste Italian pasta in Carlton or dim sum in Chinatown. These bold, local flavors, served in vibrant markets and laneways, capture Melbourne's multicultural culinary heart.

Discover World-Class Coffee Culture

Melbourne, crowned the world's coffee capital, dazzles in laneway cafes where expert baristas craft sublime espressos and velvety flat whites, bursting with rich, nutty flavors. Sip at Degraves Street's cozy nooks, paired with a flaky croissant. Roasted aromas and precise pours define this globally celebrated scene, inviting you into the city's caffeinated soul.

Stroll Melbourne's City Streets

Wander Melbourne's center, snapping photos of Flinders Street Station's ornate facade and St Paul's Cathedral's gothic spires. Admire Hosier Lane's vivid street art and AC/DC Lane's music-inspired murals. Step into the State Library Victoria's grand reading room and Block Arcade's ornate arches. These landmarks blend history, music, and creativity, pulsing with Melbourne's dynamic spirit.

Bask in Beachside Sunsets

Laze on St Kilda Beach, sunbathing or swimming in Port Phillip Bay, as gulls soar and sunsets glow. Spot little penguins at dusk or snap photos of Brighton Beach's colorful bathing boxes. Dip into Port Melbourne's gentle waves. These coastal havens, alive with sea breezes, offer laid-back escapes from Melbourne's urban pulse.

Soar in a Hot-Air Balloon

Float above Melbourne at dawn in a hot-air balloon, gazing over Yarra Valley's vineyards or the city's skyline. Watch the sunrise ignite rolling hills and coastal plains. From lush greenery to urban sprawl, this aerial adventure, launching near Yarra Glen, reveals Melbourne's beauty in serene silence.

Ride a Vintage Steam Train

Board the Puffing Billy steam train, chugging through the Dandenong Ranges' lush forests. Whistle through fern gullies, legs dangling over bridges for photos. From Belgrave to Gembrook, this century-old journey blends nostalgia with stunning views of emerald hills and misty valleys, capturing Melbourne's countryside charm.

Watch Penguins Return at Dusk

Travel 90 minutes to Phillip Island for the Penguin Parade, where hundreds of little penguins waddle from sea to burrows at sunset. From a viewing platform, see their tiny forms against crashing waves. Spot kangaroos and seals along Nobbies' boardwalks earlier. This twilight wildlife ritual, set in rugged coastal beauty, captivates with Melbourne's natural wonder.

Capture Melbourne's Skyline Views

Sip cocktails at a rooftop bar, like Naked in the Sky, and soak in Melbourne's twinkling skyline and Yarra River. Ascend Eureka Skydeck's 88th floor to photograph the Yarra's sparkling lights. Or dine at Burke's Lookout's hilltop restaurant in Dandenong Ranges, where sunsets melt into Melbourne's starry skyline, framing unforgettable vistas.

Tour the City by Tram

Hop on Melbourne's free City Circle tram, winding past Flinders Street Station and Federation Square. For charm, ride a vintage wooden tram through historic districts. This leisurely loop reveals landmarks and laneways, offering a relaxed way to soak in Melbourne's urban heartbeat under open skies.

Taste Yarra Valley Wines

Tour Yarra Valley's vineyards, an hour from Melbourne, sipping crisp Chardonnay or bold Pinot Noir at Domaine Chandon. Learn winemaking secrets amid rolling hills, then enjoy gourmet lunches overlooking vines. February's wine festival buzzes with tastings, blending Australia's viticulture with Melbourne's culinary flair.

Skydive Over Coastal Vistas

Leap from 15,000 feet above St Kilda or Yarra Valley, free-falling at 200 km/h for 60 seconds. Glide under a parachute, soaking in Melbourne's coastline, vineyards, or city skyline. This heart-pounding skydive, offered by local operators, delivers thrills and breathtaking views, defining adventure.

Feel the Australian Open's Energy

Join the electric crowds at Melbourne Park each January for the Australian Open, a Grand Slam tennis spectacle. Cheer world-class players under blazing sun or stadium lights, immersed in the city's sports passion. The roar of fans and the court-side buzz make this a Melbourne highlight.

Melbourne is a vibrant Melbourne’s got a lineup of heavy hitters—five spots blending history, nature, and skyline thrills. Here’s where to point your compass.

This steam train puffs through the Dandenong Ranges, an hour east of Melbourne, winding past lush fern gullies, towering mountain ash forests, and quaint wooden bridges. Built in 1900 to link rural communities, it’s now a living relic—open-sided carriages let you dangle your legs out, soaking in the misty air and whistle blasts. Book the classic Lakeside run tickets ahead for summer or holidays when families flock. The Menzies Creek Museum dives into its engineering past, and nearby trails—like the Emerald Lake loop—pair it with a quick hike. It’s a nostalgic escape that feels timeless.

Tucked in the CBD by the Yarra, this aquarium pulls you under with sharks gliding overhead, a massive croc named Pinjarra lurking in his lair, and penguins waddling through icy tunnels. The Oceanarium’s glass walkway is a highlight—rays swoop past—while the Jelly Lab lets you peek at breeding tanks. Midweek mornings dodge the school groups, leaving you room to linger. Conservation’s big here—talks on coral rescue and plastic bans add context—making it more than just a show. Step outside, and enjoy the riverfront views while you're there.

Rising 88 floors in Southbank, Melbourne Skydeck claims the Southern Hemisphere’s highest perch—nearly 300 meters up, with views stretching from the CBD’s spires to the Dandenong Ranges on clear days. The Edge glass cube juts out, floor dropping away below your feet—an adrenaline jolt with a killer panorama. VR pods trace Melbourne’s story in 8K, but the real draw’s the raw view—Port Phillip Bay glints south, the Yarra snakes east. Late afternoon beats midday haze; queues shrink post-4 PM.

In Carlton Gardens, this museum unravels Victoria’s layers—a blue whale skeleton suspended mid-flight, First Peoples’ artifacts at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, and Phar Lap’s preserved bulk, the racehorse that gripped a nation. The Forest Gallery’s a living slice of bushland—birds chirp overhead—while the Dinosaur Walk lines up prehistoric bones. Pair it with the Royal Exhibition Building’s gilded halls next door (UNESCO-listed). Mornings are calm—skip weekends unless you love a crowd. The IMAX nearby ups the ante for kids or film buffs with its giant screen.

An hour west in Ballarat, Sovereign Hill resurrects the 1850s gold rush—60+ buildings recreate a dusty boomtown where costumed blacksmiths hammer away and miners recount tales. Pan for gold in the creek (yours to keep), tour the Red Hill Mine’s damp tunnels, or catch the Gold Pour—molten metal shaped into a $150,000 bar. The AURA night show (extra fee) lights up the sky with goldfields lore. Train from Southern Cross (75 mins) beats the drive—weekends pack out, so midweek’s your best shot at breathing room. It’s history you can touch.

A Melbourne coffee icon—espresso with velvety steamed milk, less frothy than a latte. Born here via Italian migrants, it’s the city’s caffeine soul. Sip it at Axil Coffee Roasters in Hawthorn—baristas geek out on single-origin beans; mornings hum with locals. Go early—by 10 AM, seats go fast.

Melbourne's local waters are a rich source of oysters, often referred to as raw oysters. These freshly harvested oysters are succulent and alluring, offering a delicate and fresh flavor. Additionally, they can be cooked in numerous ways to cater to a range of culinary tastes.

Lean, gamey, and wild-caught—kangaroo’s a Melbourne delicacy, sourced sustainably from population control. Try it seared at The Meat & Wine Co (~$40)—tender with a red-wine jus, or stir-fried for softer chew. It’s high-protein, low-fat—ask for medium-rare; overcooking toughens it fast.

Flaky pastry stuffed with minced beef, gravy, and a ketchup squirt—Australia’s handheld hug. Bakeries like Pie Face dish out classics (~$6), but hit Bourke Street Bakery in the CBD for a next-level bite—pepper steak’s a standout. Grab it hot; football season (March-Sept) pairs it with a beer.

Sponge cake rolled in chocolate and coconut—a sweet Melbourne treat, often with a jam layer. Find them at Candied Bakery in Spotswood (~$4)—soft, fresh, and gone by noon. Afternoon tea’s the local ritual; they’re messy, so napkins are your friend. 

Melbourne’s walkable CBD and inner suburbs are well-served by the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) network of trains, trams, and buses. Taxis, ride-shares, and bike-sharing options are easily accessible. While driving is convenient in outer areas, it can be challenging in the city center due to traffic and parking.

Tickets and Myki Card: A Myki card is required for all PTV services (trains, trams, buses) in Melbourne’s zones. Buy a Myki card at the airport or major stations upon arrival. Load with Myki Money for pay-as-you-go or Myki Pass for unlimited travel (7 days or 28-365 days). 

Purchase or top up Myki at:

- Ticket machines at train/tram stations or major stops.
- PTV Hubs, 7-Eleven stores, or other retailers.
- Online via the PTV website or app.

Payment methods include cash, contactless credit/debit cards, or mobile payments at machines or via the app. Touch on (and off for trains/buses) with Myki at readers to validate; no validation needed on trams in the Free Tram Zone (CBD). PTV conducts inspections, so keep your card ready. 

Trains: The metro network consists of 16 lines that radiate from Flinders Street and Southern Cross stations, serving suburbs such as St Kilda and Footscray. It operates daily from 5 AM to midnight, with trains running frequently every 10 to 20 minutes. The Night Network provides all-night train, tram, and bus services on Fridays and Saturdays, operating from approximately midnight to 6:00 AM. Some services run hourly or every half hour, depending on the line. Additionally, services are available on selected public holidays.

Trams: Melbourne boasts the world's largest tram network, featuring 24 routes that are perfect for accessing the Central Business District (CBD) and surrounding areas like Fitzroy. The tram services operate from 5 AM to 1 AM, with trams running every 5 to 10 minutes during peak times. Some routes operate less frequently during the night on Fridays and Saturdays as part of the Night Network.

Additionally, Melbourne has a Free Tram Zone within the CBD, allowing passengers to ride any tram without a ticket. This free zone includes popular landmarks such as Federation Square, Queen Victoria Market, and Docklands.

Buses: Extensive bus routes connect outer suburbs, airports, and areas lacking tram or train service. Regular bus routes typically operate from around 5:00 AM to midnight, while a 24-hour service is available on Fridays and Saturdays through the Night Network.

Taxis: Metered taxis often wait in designated cab ranks at clearly signposted locations and busy areas such as Flinders Street Station. You may also hail a taxi from the street. Alternatively, download a taxi service app like 13cabs, Silver Top Taxi, or Rydo. Accommodating up to 4-5 passengers.

Ride-Shares: Uber is available, and its fares are similar to those of taxis. It is particularly popular for airport transportation and late-night rides.

Bike Rentals: To use a bike-sharing service, first download the Lime app for e-bikes or the Melbourne Bike Share app for traditional bikes. Next, create an account and enter your payment information. You can then use the app to locate and unlock a nearby bike by scanning its QR code. 

For traditional bike shares that operate from fixed stations, ensure you return the bike to a designated station. In contrast, for on-demand e-bike shares, make sure to park the bike within the designated zones indicated in the app.

Car Rentals: Renting a car in Melbourne is a great option for road trips outside the city, such as to the Great Ocean Road or Yarra Valley. However, for exploring the city itself, it may be unnecessary and could even be inconvenient, as public transport and free trams in the CBD are readily available.
 

Melbourne’s neighborhoods offer an option for every traveler—whether you crave city buzz, suburban calm, or a cultural mix. Here’s the rundown on three top spots to coose from.

The CBD puts you right into Melbourne’s pulse—Flinders Street Station’s golden glow, Federation Square’s artsy hum, and Queen Vic Market’s bustle are steps away. Hotels like The Langham lean luxe with Yarra views, while QT Melbourne mixes quirky design with rooftop sips—budget travelers can bunk at Space Hotel. Trams (free in the zone) and trains from Southern Cross make it really easy to navigate; it’s loud with trams rattling till late—earplugs help if you’re noise-shy. Perfect for culture hounds and urban explorers who want it all on their doorstep.

Out east, 20km from the CBD, Glen Waverley swaps city clamor for a laid-back suburban feel—think quiet streets and a killer Asian food scene along Kingsway, from dumplings at Din Tai Fung to spicy Sichuan at Dainty. The Novotel’s a comfy mid-range pick with train access; homestays pop up too for a local touch. The Glen Waverley station (Lilydale/Belgrave lines, ~30 mins to Flinders) links you in—buses fill the gaps. It’s a breather from the city noise, ideal for foodies or those craving calm with a city lifeline nearby.

Halfway out (15km east), Box Hill thrums with multicultural energy—think Cantonese BBQ joints, Vietnamese pho spots, and Korean dessert cafés crowding Box Hill Central. Stay at Best Western Plus for modern ease or scout for short-term rental apartment steals—guesthouses are rare despite the hype. The train (Lilydale/Belgrave, ~20 mins to CBD) and trams (Route 109) keep it well-connected; Whitehorse Road’s a shopping hub too. It’s lively but less polished than the CBD—great for travelers who look for diverse eats and a suburban pulse without the downtown noise.

Melbourne’s location in the Southern Hemisphere flips its seasons compared to the Northern Hemisphere. 

March to May (autumn) and September to November (spring) are ideal for mild weather, vibrant festivals, and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring laneways or coastal trails. January brings the excitement of the Australian Open, while November hosts the iconic Melbourne Cup.

Spring (September–November): Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F–68°F), with sunny days, occasional rain, and blooming gardens. Events like the AFL Grand Final (September) and Melbourne Cup (first Tuesday in November) create a lively atmosphere. Moderate crowds and pleasant conditions make it great for outdoor markets, Yarra River walks, or day trips to the Dandenong Ranges. Book early for Cup week due to high demand.

Summer (December–February): Expect 15°C to 30°C (59°F–86°F), with warm, dry days, occasional heatwaves, and long daylight hours. Peak season sees bustling beaches, the Australian Open tennis (January), and festive Christmas events. Crowds increase 20-30%, and prices rise, so book accommodations 3-4 months ahead, especially for major events. 

Autumn (March–May): Temperatures between 10°C and 25°C (50°F–77°F) bring crisp air, colorful foliage in parks, and fewer tourists. Perfect for laneway coffee stops, Great Ocean Road trips, or exploring street art with mild, sunny days.

Winter (June–August): Cooler at 5°C to 15°C (41°F–59°F), with frequent rain, shorter days, and occasional fog. Lower crowds and prices make it budget-friendly; pack layers and umbrellas for variable weather.

1. Declare Items at Australian Entry
Complete an eTravel declaration online at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before arriving in Melbourne, declaring all medicines (with English prescriptions for Rx drugs), cash over AUD 10,000, and food. Australia bans the import of meat, dairy, and fresh produce to protect biosecurity; however, snacks or packaged foods can be declared for inspection to avoid fines or detention. Check online for the full list of restricted items.

2. Drive with a Valid License
To rent a car in Melbourne, bring your driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) or certified English translation (e.g., from your country’s auto association) if your license isn’t in English. Drive on the left side of the road and obey the speed limits. Book rentals for day trips, but use public transport in the city to avoid parking hassles.

3. Use a Myki Card for Public Transport
Buy a Myki card online, at train stations, convenience stores, or Tullamarine Airport for Melbourne’s trams, trains, and buses. Top up with cash or a card at Myki machines. Tap on for paid tram zones (Zones 1 and 2); no card is required in the Free Tram Zone (CBD, marked stops). Cash or credit isn’t accepted, so keep your Myki topped up.

4. Get to Melbourne from the Airport on a Budget
From Tullamarine Airport, take the SkyBus (one-way or return available; every 15 minutes) to Southern Cross Station, bookable at skybus.com.au. Another budget option is to buy a Myki card at airport terminals 2–4, add credit, and catch the 901 bus from Terminal 4 to Broadmeadows Station, then transfer to a city-bound train. Taxis to the city center cost around AUD 75, depending on location.

5. Follow Transport Etiquette
On Melbourne’s trams, step off to let passengers exit during crowded rides, then reboard. Hail buses by waving to stop them, and tap your Myki at train platform validators before boarding. Stand to the left on escalators, leaving the right side for walkers, especially at busy stations like Parliament, where the escalators are steep and long.

6. Follow Pedestrian and Public Etiquette
Press buttons at Melbourne crosswalks to trigger green pedestrian signals; wait for the green man to cross, as jaywalking risks fines. Keep to the left on sidewalks to match the local flow. In public spaces like Federation Square, keep voices low and avoid blocking paths, respecting the city’s relaxed yet orderly vibe, especially during events or peak hours.

7. Understand Melbourne’s No-Tipping Culture
Tipping isn’t expected in Melbourne’s restaurants, cafes, or taxis, as wages cover service. Tip only for exceptional service (5–10%), at your discretion. Expect a 1.5% card surcharge or a 10–15% surcharge on weekends and holidays at eateries, as listed on menus.

8. Follow Alcohol Purchase and Drinking Rules
Show a passport or ID (19+ age) when buying alcohol at Melbourne’s bars, bottle shops, or restaurants. Public drinking is prohibited in parks, on beaches, or streets, with strict fines. Drink only at licensed venues or bring your own (BYO) restaurants (check for “BYO” signs and bring wine or beer).

9. Stay Safe in Melbourne
Melbourne’s CBD is generally safe, but avoid walking alone late at night in areas like Flinders Street Station or King Street. Keep bags zipped and phones secure in busy spots like Bourke Street Mall. Ignore strangers offering unsolicited help to avoid scams.

10. Book Popular Attractions in Advance
Reserve tickets for Puffing Billy Steam Train, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, or Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade at least a week ahead via official sites or Trip to skip peak-season queues. Book early for timed entries, especially for families, and arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time to ensure a smoother visit.

11. Order Coffee Like a Local
Melbourne’s coffee culture, rooted in 1950s Italian migration, shuns chains for indie cafes. Order a “magic” (double ristretto with steamed milk - a unique Melbourne invention) at CBD spots like Degraves Street for a local experience; it’s an off-menu favorite.

12. Stay Calm About Wildlife Myths
Melbourne’s urban areas pose no threat from Australia’s infamous wildlife, like snakes or spiders, despite tourist fears. Encounters are rare in the CBD or St Kilda; focus on sunscreen (SPF 50+) for UV protection instead.

13. Plan Around Shopping Hours
Melbourne’s boutiques and malls, such as Melbourne Central, close early (5 PM) on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, and often on Sundays. Shop late on Thursdays or Fridays (until 9 PM) for extended hours, or visit Saturday mornings for markets like Queen Victoria. Check store hours ahead to plan visits, especially in South Yarra or Chadstone.

14. Prepare for Melbourne’s Unpredictable Weather
Melbourne’s weather, dubbed “four seasons in a day,” shifts rapidly—think sunny 68°F (20°C) mornings turning rainy and windy by noon, or summer heatwaves hitting 104°F (40°C) then cooling to 57°F (14°C). Winter brings chilly days with temperatures as low as 41°F (5°C), accompanied by occasional warm surprises of up to 75°F (24°C). Pack layers (t-shirts, sweaters, waterproof jacket), a compact umbrella, and sturdy walking shoes for CBD’s cobblestone laneways.

15. Save Emergency Contacts
Save Australia’s emergency number, 000, for police, ambulance, or fire, and 131 444 for non-urgent police help. Keep your hotel’s address handy for quick assistance.

English is the primary language, spoken with an Australian accent.

Citymapper: Maps trams, trains, and walks—tells you exact stops and times.

Public Transport Victoria (PTV): Real-time train, tram, and bus schedules, Myki top-ups, and route planning.

TramTRACKER: Live tram arrivals and routes.

13CABS: Books taxis across the city.

Uber: Books rides and food delivery.

BOM Weather: Hour-by-hour forecasts for Melbourne's changeable climate.

Beachsafe: Beach weather, tides, hazards.

Time Out Melbourne: Guides to events, dining, and attractions.

eSIM: Providers like Airalo, Holafly, Saily, or local Optus, Telstra, Vodafone offer prepaid plans for travelers. Buy online for instant activation or at Tullamarine Airport kiosks.  

Physical SIM: Available at airport booths (Optus, Vodafone), supermarkets like Coles, or phone stores.  

Pocket Wi-Fi: Rent from providers like Travel WiFi or airport counters, suitable for groups.  
 
Free Wi-Fi is widespread in hotels, cafés, public libraries, and hotspots via networks like VicFreeWiFi (registration may be required).  

Pre-book eSIMs or pocket Wi-Fi online for easy airport pickup. 

Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD, $).

In Melbourne, credit/debit cards and contactless payments are dominant, especially in tourist areas, with cash useful for markets or small vendors.

Credit/debit cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, including contactless; American Express is less so. Notify your bank of your travel to prevent blocks.  

Cash: ATMs (plentiful at airports, malls) require a 4-digit PIN; withdraw AUD but check fees. Carry some cash for small purchases or emergencies. 

Mobile payments: Apple Pay, Google Pay are popular at shops, transport, and restaurants.