Melbourne 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Central Melbourne

  • Morning:

    • Start your day at the iconic Federation Square, home to Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) and National Gallery of Victoria (NGV).
    • Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic Revival sandstone building.
    • Head to the Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce, local goods, and souvenirs. Don’t miss the European-style deli for breakfast!

  • Afternoon:

    • Take a stroll along the Yarra River and cross the Bolte Bridge to reach Southbank. Visit the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA).
    • Relax at Southbank Beach or take a ride on the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel for panoramic city views.
    • Explore the artsy and trendy streets of Hosier Lane and AC/DC Lane.

  • Evening:

    • Dine at Cumulus Inc., a popular restaurant by chef Andrew McConnell, offering modern Australian cuisine.
    • End your day with a comedy show at The Comedy Theatre or the classic movie experience at Cinema Nova in Carlton.

Day 2: Melbourne’s Iconic Neighbourhoods

  • Morning:

    • Visit Fitzroy, home to vintage stores, street art, and cafes. Grab breakfast at famous café, Cafe Di Stasio or Brother Baba Budan.
    • Explore the vibrant Collins Street for high-end shopping and visit the blockbuster exhibition at the NGV International if it’s on during your visit.

  • Afternoon:

    • Head to the trendy suburb of Brunswick, stop by Lentil As Anything for a vegan lunch, then explore Sydney Road’s boutique shops and street art.
    • Visit Melbourne Zoo or Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton before they close.

  • Evening:

    • Dine at Cutler & Co., another award-winning restaurant by Andrew McConnell, known for its shared plates menu.
    • Catch a gig at the Northcote Social Club or The Toff in Town.

Day 3: Beyond Central Melbourne

  • Morning:

    • Take a day trip to St. Kilda, just a short tram ride from the city. Visit Luna Park, walk along the beachfront promenade, and check out the penguin colony at St. Kilda Pier.
    • Explore the Acland Street’s famous gelaterias and bakeries for lunch.

  • Afternoon:

    • Head to the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne or Healesville Sanctuary for a taste of Victoria’s wildlife and landscapes.
    • Return to Melbourne and visit the Eureka Skydeck 88 for sunset views over the city.

Where to Stay:

  • budget: Base Melbourne Hostel (North Melbourne)
  • mid-range: QT Melbourne (CBD)
  • luxury: The Langham, Melbourne (Southbank)

Transportation: Melbourne has an extensive public transport system, including trams, buses, and trains. A myki card can be purchased for unlimited travel within a day or week.

Tips:

  • Download the Free Tram Zone map to avoid tram fare in the CBD.
  • Check opening times before visiting attractions as some may have changed due to COVID-19 restrictions.
  • Enjoy the city’s famous coffee culture! Melbourne is known for its cafes and coffee roasters.
  • Respect the street art, do not touch or deface it.