19 Unique Things to Do in Melbourne

Melbourne rewards the curious. From sunrise paddles on the Yarra to after‑dark planetarium shows, this city blends art, sport, coffee culture, and coastal cool in one irresistible mix. Wander laneways bursting with street art, feast in hidden restaurants, and chase skyline views before soaking in hot springs just a short day trip away. Whether you’re a first‑timer or returning for more, these 19 memorable things to do in Melbourne will make you feel like a local or get you to       fall in love with the city all over again.

19 Unique Things to do in Melbourne For Every Traveler

1. Take a Walking Tour of Melbourne’s Laneways and Arcades

Explore Melbourne’s famous hidden laneways and arcades on foot. From the iconic street art in Hosier Lane to the European-style charm of Block Arcade and Royal Arcade, these guided or self-guided walking tours reveal street art, historic architecture, secret bars, independent boutiques, and stunning architectural details. It’s one of the best ways to experience the city’s creative heartbeat up close.

2. Paddle the Yarra on a Moonlight Kayak Tour

The Yarra River offers a quintessential Melbourne experience, and one of the optimal times to visit is as the sun begins to set. Discover the major iconic sights of Melbourne from a unique water-level view. Tours last approximately 2.5 hours long with kayakers going past Victoria Harbour, Bolte Bridge, Seafarers Precinct and Southbank on this 2.5 hour experience.

3. Take the Aboriginal Heritage Walk at the Royal Botanic Gardens

Deepen your understanding of First Peoples' rich heritage and vibrant culture, particularly concerning the plants and landscapes of Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.

Travelers can explore the Gardens with a First Peoples guide to learn about the Kulin Nation's rich history and vibrant culture. Discover significant native plants, their traditional Aboriginal uses, customs, and the ongoing connection to Country.

4. Explore the Fast Lane at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit

Just two hours outside of Melbourne, check out Phillip Island, a vibrant destination known for its wildlife, scenic coastline, and family-friendly activities. Motorsport fans will love the Grand Prix Circuit for major events like MotoGP or trying out a go-kart session on a scaled replica of the track. Nature lovers can get close to wildlife at popular spots such as Phillip Island Wildlife Park, Koala Conservation Reserve, and Seal Rocks. 

5. Brave The Edge at Melbourne Skydeck (Eureka Tower)

For those comfortable with heights, getting a bird’s eye view of Melbourne from the Eureka Skydeck is a must! Sitting on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower, this is the highest observation deck in the southern hemisphere. You’ll be greeted by excellent views and landmarks in every direction. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a dozen fixed binoculars, directed towards Melbourne’s most famous landmark, plan to spend an hour circling the floor in full.

6. Feast at the Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market, the Southern Hemisphere's largest open-air market, offers a blend of history, commerce, and culinary delights. Established in 1878, it's a rare surviving example of Melbourne's Victorian-era markets and a must-visit for any traveler. For the best experience, we strongly suggest visiting early on a weekday. The market operates daily from 6 am, excluding Mondays and Wednesdays, and tends to become extremely crowded by lunchtime.

7. Catch a film at Rooftop Cinema atop Curtin House

On a warm summer night in Melbourne, there's a unique cinema experience waiting for you: rooftop movies. Not only can you enjoy a film, but also grab a drink and a bite to eat, all with the convenience of a central city location. When the film begins, you’ll be able to live completely in those movie moments with personal headphones and an amazing view of the big screen.

8. Drift over the CBD at dawn on a hot-air balloon flight

Experience an unforgettable hot air balloon flight over Melbourne, the only major city globally offering CBD aerial views. Marvel at landmarks like the MCG, Port Phillip Bay, or Eureka while the sun rises over the Yarra River. Your journey begins with the gentle inflation of the balloon, followed by a peaceful float. 

9. Cycle the Capital City Trail around inner Melbourne

The Capital City Trail, a 29.6km loop, offers a picturesque route for cyclists through inner Melbourne. This trail integrates sections of the Yarra Trail, Merri Creek Trail, Moonee Ponds Creek Trail, and Inner Circle Rail Trail, winding through lush parks, and past charming inner suburbs. Not a biker? This trail is perfect for walkers too!

10. Do a progressive degustation through hidden laneway restaurants

Embark on a progressive degustation evening walk and discover Melbourne's diverse culinary landscape. Experience a truly delicious and memorable visit through the city's hidden laneways to three local restaurants. Each stop offers curated wine tastings and savory delights, showcasing their distinct flavor and flair. Along the journey, engage with passionate staff and learn the stories behind each venue's design, menu, and its place in Melbourne's vibrant food scene.

11. Browse indie makers at the Rose Street Artists’ Market

At Fitzroy's famous Rose Street Market, explore unique handmade art, design, homewares, jewelry, and more directly from Melbourne's top indie artists and makers. Over 100 local creators showcase original pieces, offering a vibrant atmosphere and opportunities to meet artists and commission custom works. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and friendly stallholders, get ready to shop for unique pieces you won't find elsewhere.  

12. See a gig at Section 8, the open-air shipping-container bar

Section 8, Melbourne's longest-running pop-up bar since 2006, is a graffiti-covered outdoor space in Chinatown. On tap? A funky staff, rotating beer list, cocktails, and generous wine pours amidst the smells of nearby eateries and smoke. It embodies Melbourne's pure rock'n'roll vibe.

13. Ride the Puffing Billy steam train through the Dandenongs

Just an hour east of Melbourne, Puffing Billy offers a chance to reconnect with loved ones amidst the Dandenong Ranges' fresh air. This historic train journey from Belgrave to Gembrook, along its original mountain track, winds through lush fern gullies and towering Mountain Ash trees, providing a relaxing experience in the temperate rainforest.

14. Soak at Peninsula Hot Springs on a day trip from the city

Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, on the Mornington Peninsula, lies the award-winning Peninsula Hot Springs. This natural hot springs, day spa, and wellness destination offers a coastal oasis where natural geothermal mineral waters feed into pools and private baths, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The Bath House is family-friendly, while the Spa Dreaming Centre (16+) offers tranquil spaces.

15. Get lost under the dome of the State Library’s La Trobe Reading Room

Don't miss the La Trobe Reading Room in Melbourne. Opened in 1913, this Edwardian octagonal room, inspired by the British Museum and Library of Congress, is six stories high, holding 32,000 books and 320 readers. Once the world's largest reinforced-concrete structure, it was renovated in 2003. Capture a "Dome selfie" from the floor or sixth-floor balcony, and admire its original features and tranquil study environment.

16. Hop on the free City Circle Tram for a heritage loop of the CBD

Melbourne's free City Circle Tram, a heritage tram, offers a scenic CBD loop, passing major attractions with audio commentary. Easily identifiable by its burgundy, green, and gold exterior, it's popular with both tourists and locals. The one-hour loop is a popular option for tourists and locals alike, with Trams running every 12 minutes in both directions within the Free Tram Zone. 

17. Tour the MCG and the National Sports Museum like a local fan

Even if sports aren't your passion, a tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is a must. Melbourne, Australia's sports capital, hosts major events like the Australian Open and Formula 1. Often called the city's cathedral, this 100,000-person capacity is one of the world's largest stadiums. In fact, Taylor Swift played to a record 96,000 here!

18. Dive into contemporary art at NGV International & NGV Australia

Art lovers rejoice! Melbourne is home to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), which boasts an extensive collection of contemporary art. Comprised of two main buildings — NGV International, dedicated to international art, and NGV Australia, which features Australian art, including Indigenous works. Featuring a vast collection of over 75,000 pieces, both buildings offer free entry to the permanent collections, though some special exhibitions may require a fee. 

19. Stargaze at Scienceworks’ Melbourne Planetarium After Dark sessions

The Melbourne Planetarium reawakens after hours for adults only with a stellar line-up of fulldome film screenings. Offering a unique and immersive experience beyond its regular operating hours and two screenings a night, join for one or both sessions. Whether you love science, art, or both, these screenings are out of this world!

Tips for Traveling to Melbourne

Excited to travel to Melbourne?

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Count on the experienced and savvy team here at Aspire Down Under to help you plan the trip of a lifetime. From navigating the best neighborhoods to stay to securing exclusive tours of iconic landmarks, we offer a mix of meticulous attention to detail, local insight, and logistical expertise. 

There are so many more things to do in Melbourne. We can recommend hidden-gem restaurants, art galleries, and seasonal festivals that match your interests, while also handling flight bookings, transfers, and accommodations. 

With personalized planning and on-the-ground knowledge, let’s connect today about your dream Melbourne holiday!