Melbourne is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture and plenty to offer visitors. If you’re planning a trip to the ‘Land Down Under,’ here are some of the best places to visit.
Queen Victoria Market is one of the most iconic open-air markets in the world. It’s a perfect place to shop for souvenirs or pick up tasty treats.
1. Queen Victoria Market
Whether you’re looking for fresh fruit and vegetables, meats, cheeses, or small goods, Queen Victoria Market has it all. It’s a popular attraction for Melburnians and tourists, and the stallholders are incredibly friendly.
There are hundreds of stalls and shops, selling everything from clothes to souvenirs, food, and drinks. Visiting the market is an immersive experience for visitors of all ages and interests.
2. National Gallery Of Victoria
The National Gallery of Victoria is one of Australia's most popular public art museums, hosting epic exhibitions and an impressive collection. It houses works from ancient Greece, Egypt, Rome and the pre-Columbian period in addition to an Oceanic gallery dedicated to original cultures of the Pacific area.
It also hosts an outstanding collection of European paintings dating from 1200 to today. The museum also features photography, fashion and textile exhibits, sculptures and furniture.
3. Old Melbourne Gaol
A visit to the Old Melbourne Gaol is a great way to explore Victorian history. The former prison is now a popular tourist attraction and has a unique insight into Australia's dark criminal past.
Visitors can get a glimpse into the lives of prisoners, including bushranger Ned Kelly and gangster Squizzy Taylor. They can also see displays of prisoners' belongings and death masks.
4. Scienceworks
A classic Melbourne family favourite, Scienceworks links Melbourne's scientific industry, community, heritage and applied technology in an unbelievably fun environment.
With constantly changing exhibitions, live demonstrations, tours and activities to explore, it's an excellent choice for a day out with the kids!
There's a ton of things to do and see including live demonstrations, 3D star gazing, the Melbourne Planetarium and the exciting Lightening Room which generates 2 million volts of electricity. It's also home to the historic Spotswood Pumping Station which is a must-see.
5. Royal Botanic Gardens
In a picturesque setting of 38 hectares, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer a green escape from the bustle of Melbourne City. With a diverse collection of plants from around the world, they are a must-visit attraction.
The garden is also home to a variety of interesting and educational activities, including an Aboriginal Heritage Tour which takes visitors through the history of the land. This is an award-winning walk which introduces the stories and culture of the original inhabitants of this area along with their relationship to the land.
6. Eureka Tower
If you’re looking for a unique and stunning attraction in Melbourne, then Eureka Tower is the place to be. This skyscraper is one of the most recognizable symbols in Melbourne, and it features 24 carat gold plated windows on its top 10 floors.
The 88th floor of the building is home to the Eureka Tower Skydeck, which is the highest public observation deck in Australia. Here, you can view Albert Park Lake, Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges.
7. Melbourne Museum
The Carlton Gardens-adjacent Melbourne Museum is one of Australia's largest natural and cultural history museums. Here, you'll find dinosaur skeletons, a 600-species taxidermy hall and an indoor rainforest.
In addition, you can visit the IMAX theater, which is home to 2D and 3D films. The gallery also features a museum store that sells souvenirs.
8. IMAX Theatre
The IMAX Theatre is one of the city's most popular attractions. Its oversized screen makes you feel like you're right in the middle of the action.
It's the ultimate movie experience! With crystal clear images up to eight stories high, and wrap-around digital surround sound, you'll be swept away into worlds that only IMAX can show.
