Melbourne is one of Australia's most vibrant cities, celebrated for its thriving cafe culture, world-class food scene, and passionate love of sport. Its leafy laneways, eclectic street art, and rich arts scene give it a creative energy unlike anywhere else in the country.
Find out what Melbourne has to offer below.
Melbourne Zoo
Opening Hours
9 AM - 5 PM Daily
Pricing
Adult: $54.50
Child: Free Weekends & Holidays (4 - 15 Years: $28.50 on Weekdays)
About
Melbourne Zoo is home to hundreds of animals from around the world, offering immersive habitats and conservation-focused experiences. From exotic species to native wildlife, visitors can explore, learn and connect with nature through interactive exhibits and engaging talks. It’s a fun and educational destination for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and curious minds alike.
Sealife Aquarium
Opening Hours
10 AM - 5 PM Daily (Last entry 4 PM)
Pricing
Adult: From $39
Child: From $25
About
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium immerses visitors in the wonders of the ocean, showcasing marine life from Australia and around the world. Walk through underwater tunnels, discover sharks, rays, penguins and tropical fish, and enjoy interactive exhibits that educate and entertain. It’s a fun and engaging experience for families and marine enthusiasts alike.
Botanical Gardens
Opening Hours
7:30 AM - 7:30 PM Daily Visitors Center: 9:30 AM - 5 PM
Pricing
Free
About
The Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne is a lush sanctuary in the heart of the city, featuring stunning landscapes, themed gardens and tranquil lakes. Visitors can wander winding paths, discover native and exotic plants, and enjoy seasonal events and guided tours. It’s the perfect place to relax, explore and connect with nature.
Shrine of Remembrance
Opening Hours
10 AM - 5 PM Daily
Pricing
Free
About
The Shrine of Remembrance is Melbourne’s iconic war memorial, honoring the service and sacrifice of Australians. Explore its impressive architecture, contemplative galleries and panoramic views from the balcony. Set in the heart of the city, it offers a moving and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Old Melbourne Gaol
Opening Hours
10 AM - 5 PM Daily
Pricing
Adult: $38
Child (5 - 15 Years): $22
About
The Old Melbourne Gaol is a historic site that brings Victoria’s colonial past to life. Explore the cells, hear stories of infamous criminals, and learn about life behind bars in the 19th century. With guided tours and interactive exhibits, it’s a fascinating and immersive experience for history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
St. Pauls Cathedral Church
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 10 AM - 6 PM
Sat: 10 AM - 5 PM Sunday Services: 8 AM, 10 AM, 1 PM, 4 PM, 6 PM
Pricing
Free
About
St Paul’s Cathedral is a striking landmark in Melbourne’s city centre, known for its Gothic Revival architecture and rich history. Visitors can admire its soaring spires, intricate interiors, and beautiful stained-glass windows, or attend services and concerts. It’s a peaceful and inspiring space for reflection, culture, and exploration.
ACMI
Opening Hours
10 AM - 5 PM Daily
Pricing
Free entry (Some exhibitions will require a pre-paid ticket)
About
ACMI is Australia’s national museum of screen culture, celebrating film, television, videogames and digital art. Through interactive exhibitions, immersive installations and a diverse program of screenings and events, it explores how stories are told on screen. Located in the heart of the city, ACMI offers an engaging and contemporary cultural experience for all ages.
Melbourne Museum
Opening Hours
9 AM - 5 PM Daily
Pricing
Adult: $18
Child: Free
About
Melbourne Museum offers a fascinating journey through natural history, science, culture and society. Explore world-class exhibitions alongside iconic experiences such as the Forest Gallery and Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Set within Carlton Gardens, the museum provides an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
NGV: National Gallery of Victoria
Opening Hours
10 AM - 5 PM Daily
Pricing
Free entry (Some exhibitions will require a pre-paid ticket)
About
Australia’s oldest and most visited art gallery, the National Gallery of Victoria is a must-see for art lovers. Explore an ever-changing program of international and local exhibitions alongside an impressive permanent collection spanning centuries and cultures. Set within an iconic architectural space, the NGV offers an inspiring cultural experience in the heart of Melbourne.
Arts House
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 5 PM (Closed Sat and Sun)
Pricing
Pricing varies from free to $35 dependent on exhibitions
About
Arts House is a contemporary performance venue dedicated to bold, experimental and thought-provoking work. Showcasing a dynamic program of theatre, dance, music and interdisciplinary performances, it champions local and international artists pushing creative boundaries. Set within Melbourne’s cultural landscape, Arts House offers audiences the chance to experience innovative and immersive live performance.
Queen Victoria Market
Location
Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Market Hours
Closed Monday and Wednesday
Tues, Thurs, Fri 6 AM - 3 PM Sat 6 AM - 4 PM Sun 9 AM - 3 PM
About
Also known affectionately as ‘Vic Market’ or ‘Queen Vic’, the Queen Victoria Market has been the heart and soul of Melbourne for more than a century. An historic landmark spread over two city blocks, it’s a vibrant and bustling inner-city market where you can shop at over 600 small businesses for everything from Australian fruit and vegetables, local and imported gourmet foods, clothing and souvenirs.
South Melbourne Market
Location
322-326 Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205
Market Hours
Closed Mon, Tues, Thurs
Wed, Sat, Sun 8 AM - 4PM Fri 8 AM - 5 PM
About
Established in 1867, South Melbourne Market is the quintessential village market. Embracing and showcasing the local, supporting local farmers, artisans and producers. It’s a foodie’s paradise where freshness, quality and diversity are paramount with food stuffs from land to sea. We celebrate a philosophy of real food, encouraging you to cook food that is made from great quality, fresh produce sourced from our family of traders you know, love and trust.