Melbourne, the second largest city in Australia, is also a contender for “best livable city in the world.” It’s a multicultural city that has a variety of seasons. Melbourne is a city of cultures, colors, and coffee. We have compiled a list of the top Melbourne attractions for those who are visiting this urban metropolis that has a rural charm. Take a look.
Eureka Tower
The tower has the highest viewing platform in the southern hemisphere. Do you need more reasons to visit? Alright! The tower rises 91 floors above the ground, and from its gold-plated top, you can see a 360-degree panorama of the city. The Edge is a 3-meter glass cube that slides away from the tower for those who like to go beyond the lines.
Federation Square
Alright, fellas, free Wi-Fi on your way! This historical monument, also known as Fed Square, is Australia’s largest free-internet zone. The ultra-modern architecture hosts over 2000 events each year. This Melbourne tourist attraction is located amidst the stunning Victorian architecture buildings. It has entertainment zones in both its intimate indoor theater and central outdoor performance space.
Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens is home to half a million plants spread across 40 hectares. Around 1.5 million people visit the gardens each year. This garden is one of Melbourne’s most popular tourist attractions. It offers horticulture classes for the next generation. The park also provides Aboriginal heritage tours that explore the rich history and culture of Aboriginal Australians. Where? Birdwood Ave., South Yarra
Opening Hours: From 7 am to the end of the business day.
Entry Charges: Free
Melbourne Cricket Ground
MCG, the birthplace of Test Cricket, the main stadium for the 1956 Olympics, and home to Australian Football has a history dating back to 1853, with a capacity of 100,000. It is a must-visit among Melbourne’s best tourist attractions. The curator organizes a daily 75-minute guided tour to help visitors relive their memories. For a sporty outing, the summer months host cricket matches and the winter months football matches. Tennis courts can be rented in the stadium.
Penguin Parade
While the sun is melting on the Melbourne beaches, hundreds of penguins are flocking across the sandy beach. A stroll with these adorable creatures as they walk towards their burrows in the sand is an experience of a lifetime. Different agencies offer these packages at various locations in the city.
Dandenong Ranges
The Dandenong Ranges is another must-see place in Melbourne. It has dense rainforests, long walks, small towns, box-like shops, and views of the vast Mountain Ash forest, waterfalls, and hidden historical gems. The “Puffing Bill” train ride is one of the world’s most famous narrow gauge railways. It sails through leisurely winds, and the scenic views are worth the trip. If you are in Melbourne, you must visit the Sherbrooke Forest, the tranquil village of Sassafras, and the Dandenong Ranges National Park.
Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building
Bunjilaka is a cultural and historical museum that includes the Blue Box Cube, the Aboriginal Center, and the gallery of societies and cultures from the past. All this and more can be seen on a tram ride around the city. The beautiful gardens and parkland that surround Melbourne are a must-see on any list of tourist attractions. The building was also the site of the first Commonwealth Parliament in 1901.
Captain Cook’s Cottage
Captain Cook is synonymous with seafaring and adventure. Fitzroy Gardens was chosen to house his cottage in Yorkshire, England. This cottage’s solitude will transport you back to the time of Cook’s Australian explorations. The floral display in the conservatory, done in mission style, is an absolute delight for the senses.
Melbourne Zoo
Here is a zoo that has an Orangutan Sanctuary, where animals are housed in the treetops. The zoo also hosts some innovative events, such as ‘roar-and-snore wild encounters’ and twilight concerts. It is one of the best zoos in the world. With a history dating back 150 years, state-of-the-art facilities housing 320 different species of animals, frog displays, and the famous Trail of the Elephant, it has a rich history.
National Gallery of Victoria
It would be best if you lay down on the floor to see the stained glass ceilings in this gallery. The two locations in each city have a collection of 68000 pieces of art. The triptych format Pioneer by Frederick Mccubbin is one of the main attractions at the National Gallery.
Where? St. Kilda Road in Melbourne, Federation Square
Queen Victoria Market
Queen Victoria Street is one of Australia’s most vibrant and happening streets. This heritage market, which dates back to 1878, is still heavily thronged with locals and tourists. It sells fresh produce even today. This market has everything for everyone: clothing, art, toys, and the rarest souvenirs. The market also has a large food hall. This Melbourne tourist attraction is unique. It organizes a variety of weekend events, including night markets, concerts, and street tours.
Queen Street and Victoria Streets in Melbourne
Opening Hours: 6 am to 3 pm
Parking is around 8$ per hour.
South Bank and Arts Centre
This art center, located on the river Yarra’s bank and within walking distance of Finder Streets, is a popular tourist attraction in Melbourne. There are many indoor and outdoor restaurants and cafes that host live music and stand-up comedy. On Sunday, the arts and crafts market is a weekend highlight. The center is home to several theatres, including the Fairfax Theatre, as well as the Hammer Hall, which is the venue for the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.