Ultimate 3-Day Melbourne Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

A vibrant fusion of arts, coffee culture, laneways, and multicultural flavors makes Melbourne a city that surprises and delights at every turn.

Main view of Melbourne

Day 1: Laneways, Art, and Iconic Sights

Morning

Begin your Melbourne adventure with a stroll through the vibrant Hosier Lane, famous for its ever-changing street art and urban creativity.

Hosier Lane

Hosier Lane

Refuel with a specialty coffee at Degraves Street, a bustling laneway filled with iconic Melbourne cafés and European ambiance.

Degraves Street

Degraves Street

Afternoon

Marvel at masterpieces both old and new at the National Gallery of Victoria, Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum.

National Gallery of Victoria

National Gallery of Victoria

Walk through the lush Royal Botanic Gardens, a tranquil escape in the city, and enjoy a picnic or a leisurely lakeside stroll.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Royal Botanic Gardens

Evening

Experience Melbourne’s culinary scene at Chin Chin, a buzzy modern Thai restaurant beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Chin Chin

Chin Chin

Have a nightcap at Eau De Vie, a hidden speakeasy bar with world-class cocktails and vintage vibes.

Eau De Vie

Eau De Vie

📍 Directions for Day 1

Day 2: Markets, Culture & Waterfront

Morning

Start the day at the bustling Queen Victoria Market, sampling gourmet bites and browsing fresh produce, artisan goods, and souvenirs.

Queen Victoria Market

Queen Victoria Market

Enjoy a classic Melbourne brunch at Hardware Societe, renowned for its French-inspired dishes and exceptional coffee.

Hardware Societe

Hardware Societe

Afternoon

Discover local history and culture at the Melbourne Museum, home to fascinating exhibits on everything from indigenous culture to natural history.

Melbourne Museum

Melbourne Museum

Wander through the adjacent Carlton Gardens and admire the grand Royal Exhibition Building, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Carlton Gardens

Carlton Gardens

Evening

Head to Southbank Promenade for a riverside stroll, lively street performers, and stunning city views as the sun sets.

Southbank Promenade

Southbank Promenade

Dine at The Deck Restaurant for refined modern Australian cuisine and romantic riverside ambiance.

The Deck Restaurant

The Deck Restaurant

📍 Directions for Day 2

Day 3: Seaside, Wildlife & Neighborhood Charm

Morning

Take a tram to St Kilda Beach for a sunrise stroll along the sand, watch kite surfers, or relax at one of the beachfront cafés.

St Kilda Beach

St Kilda Beach

Indulge in a sweet treat at the legendary Acland Street Cakes, where European cake shops line the boulevard with freshly baked delights.

Acland Street Cakes

Acland Street Cakes

Afternoon

Encounter iconic Australian animals up close at Melbourne Zoo, set in beautiful parklands just north of the city center.

Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo

Explore the eclectic boutiques, vintage stores, and indie cafés of Fitzroy, Melbourne’s creative and alternative heart.

Fitzroy

Fitzroy

Evening

For a memorable dinner, head to Cutler and Co, a celebrated Fitzroy restaurant offering contemporary Australian cuisine in a chic converted warehouse.

Cutler and Co

Cutler and Co

At dusk, return to St Kilda Pier and breakwater to spot the colony of wild little penguins returning home—a magical, free wildlife experience in the heart of the city.

St Kilda Pier

St Kilda Pier

📍 Directions for Day 3

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