Melbourne 10 days

Melbourne's primary international airport, serving as your gateway to the city. It's well-connected with various transport options to the CBD.

• Consider the SkyBus for a direct and efficient transfer to Southern Cross Station.

An iconic Melbourne landmark with its distinctive Edwardian Baroque architecture and famous clocks. It's a central meeting point and a great spot to begin your city exploration.

• Take a photo with the station's facade and the surrounding street art.

A vibrant laneway famous for its ever-changing, dynamic street art. It's a photographer's delight and showcases Melbourne's thriving urban art scene.

• Visit during daylight for the best light and to see artists at work.
• Be respectful of the art and artists.

A long-standing Melbourne institution offering classic European fare in a sophisticated setting. Known for its excellent service and extensive wine list.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art. Don't miss the Great Hall with its stained-glass ceiling.

• Check the NGV website for current temporary exhibitions, which may have an entry fee.
• Allow ample time to explore the diverse collections.

A historic bustling market offering a vast array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, souvenirs, and clothing. It's a sensory experience with a lively atmosphere.

• Go on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Sample local delicacies from the food stalls.

Located in Federation Square, ACMI celebrates the art and culture of the moving image, from early cinema to contemporary video games. Its permanent exhibition is free.

• Explore the interactive exhibits that cover film, television, and digital culture.

A stylish and popular restaurant in the Flinders Lane precinct, known for its modern Australian cuisine and share-plate concept. It offers a vibrant dining experience.

• Bookings are essential, often weeks in advance.

A narrow, bustling laneway filled with quirky cafes, independent boutiques, and vibrant street art. It's a quintessential Melbourne laneway experience.

• Grab a coffee and pastry at one of the many cafes.

Another iconic laneway, known for its eclectic atmosphere, small shops, and numerous cafes. It's a great place to people-watch and soak in the city's vibe.

• Look out for the 'Centre Place' sign above the entrance.

Located at Federation Square, this branch of the NGV focuses on Australian art, including Indigenous and contemporary works. Entry to the permanent collection is free.

• Explore the extensive collection of Australian colonial art.

A highly popular Thai restaurant in Flinders Lane known for its energetic atmosphere and delicious, modern Thai street food. Expect a lively dining experience.

• They don't take bookings for small groups, so arrive early or be prepared to queue.
• The tasting menu is a great way to sample a variety of dishes.

A vibrant pedestrian precinct along the Yarra River, offering stunning city views, public art, and a lively atmosphere. It's a great place for a morning stroll.

• Enjoy the street performers often found here in the afternoons and evenings.

Located on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower, this observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Melbourne and beyond. It's the highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere.

• Visit closer to sunset for a magical experience.
• The 'Edge' experience, a glass cube extending from the building, is an optional add-on.

A performing arts complex housing theatres, concert halls, and art galleries. Explore the spire, designed by Harry Seidler, and the surrounding public spaces.

• Check the schedule for any free exhibitions or performances.
• The building itself is an architectural marvel.

A vibrant Greek restaurant offering modern twists on traditional dishes in a lively, art-filled setting. It's known for its creative small plates and cocktails.

• The lamb shoulder is a popular choice.
• The restaurant's decor is as memorable as its food.

The heart of Fitzroy, renowned for its eclectic mix of independent boutiques, vintage clothing stores, bookstores, and art galleries. It's a hub for bohemian culture.

• Explore the side streets for hidden gems and unique finds.

A vibrant weekend market showcasing works by local artists and designers, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and fashion. It's a fantastic place to find unique souvenirs.

• Open on Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting.
• Great place to meet artists and purchase directly from them.

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum. The gardens themselves are beautifully landscaped, offering a tranquil escape.

• Visit the Royal Exhibition Building for its stunning architecture.

A long-standing Fitzroy institution serving a modern European menu in a stylish, buzzing atmosphere. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

• Known for its excellent food and lively ambiance.

A charming laneway lined with cafes and restaurants, particularly lively during weekday lunchtimes. It's a great spot to experience Melbourne's cafe culture.

• Enjoy a classic Melbourne brunch here.

Revisit Queen Victoria Market to explore specific food stalls you may have missed, particularly the deli section and specialty food vendors.

• Look for the famous Borek or cheese tasting opportunities.

A free exhibition celebrating the history of Australian contemporary music, featuring iconic instruments, costumes, and memorabilia. It's a journey through the evolution of the local music scene.

• Engage with the interactive displays and learn about legendary Australian musicians.

A highly acclaimed Italian restaurant specializing in fresh, handmade pasta. It's known for its intimate setting and authentic flavors.

• Book well in advance as it's a small restaurant and very popular.

A historic steam train experience through the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, offering scenic views and a nostalgic journey. Several departure points are available.

• Book tickets online in advance, especially for popular services.
• Consider the various lunch or dinner train options.

A charming mountain village known for its quaint shops, artisan crafts, and delightful cafes. It's a perfect place to wander and enjoy the cool mountain air.

• Sample local scones with jam and cream.

A tranquil sanctuary in the Dandenong Ranges featuring sculptures by William Ricketts set amongst the fern gullies. It offers beautiful walking paths and stunning natural beauty.

• The sculptures are integrated into the natural environment, creating a unique spiritual atmosphere.

Travel back to Melbourne from the Dandenong Ranges. This will likely involve driving or public transport.

One of Melbourne's premier shopping destinations, offering a diverse range of fashion boutiques, department stores, and unique independent retailers. It's a hub for style.

• Explore both the high-end boutiques and the more affordable options.

A trendy inner-city suburb known for its fashion, dining, and vibrant atmosphere. Beyond Chapel Street, explore its side streets for cafes and galleries.

• Enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes along Chapel Street or its side lanes.

A magnificent 19th-century Italianate mansion set in beautiful gardens, offering a glimpse into Melbourne's colonial past. It's a heritage-listed property with stunning architecture.

• Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the house and its former residents.

A classic French bistro in South Yarra, offering authentic French cuisine and a sophisticated dining experience. It's a beloved Melbourne institution.

• Reservations are essential.
• Known for its extensive wine list and traditional dishes.

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, one of Australia's most famous sporting venues. See the change rooms, media centre, and walk on the arena.

• Check tour times in advance, as they can be affected by events.

Surrounding the MCG are other significant sporting venues like Rod Laver Arena and AAMI Park. It's a vast area dedicated to sports and recreation.

• Walk around the precinct to appreciate the scale of the stadiums.

Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Yarra River, offering unique perspectives of the city skyline, Southbank, and the Docklands. Various tour options are available.

• Consider a sunset cruise for a particularly scenic experience.

A sophisticated restaurant located at Albert Park Lake, offering fine dining with stunning views of the lake and city. Known for its seafood and modern Australian cuisine.

• Dress code is smart casual.
• Excellent for a special occasion.

A last chance to pick up any desired souvenirs or local produce from the vibrant Queen Victoria Market before heading to the airport.

• Look for local artisanal products like jams, honey, or coffee.

A popular cafe and restaurant located in a beautifully restored heritage building, offering excellent coffee and modern Australian cuisine. It's a great spot for a final Melbourne meal.

• Enjoy the impressive architecture and natural light.

Depart from Melbourne's international airport.

• Allow ample time for check-in and security.