The ULTIMATE Melbourne Travel Guide: Top attractions, best things to do, eat, stay & MORE

First-time travelers to Melbourne and you are confused about where to start? This article is a “pocket guide” to help you answer all your questions before the trip – from planning, choosing the hottest destinations to extremely useful tips to make your trip more complete. Melbourne is not only attractive because of the blend of contemporary beauty and classic imprints, but also a vibrant city with unique art, coffee culture and areas with their own identity. Now, let’s check out The ULTIMATE Melbourne Travel Guide: Top attractions, best things to do, eat, stay & MORE below!

To make your first trip to Melbourne more complete and memorable, please refer to the Melbourne Travel Guide compiled by Living Nomads specifically for you in the following article!

Melbourne Travel Guide: About Melbourne

Melbourne – the capital of Victoria – is the second largest city in Australia, located in the southeast of the continent, on the shores of Port Phillip Bay. This is Australia’s leading economic, cultural and creative hub, known for its harmonious blend of ancient and modern architecture, vibrant street art and a distinctive cosmopolitan atmosphere (an environment that is international, multicultural and open). Melbourne borders major areas such as Geelong (southwest), Ballarat (northwest) and is only 878 km northeast of Sydney.

The city is regularly ranked as one of the most livable places in the world thanks to its developed transport system, high-quality education and healthcare, and safe and friendly living environment. Melbourne is also known as the “cultural capital” of Australia, with festivals, museums, theaters and world-class sporting events such as the Australian Open tennis tournament or the F1 Grand Prix.

Traveling to Melbourne is a journey to discover diverse colors – from the bustling city center with Federation Square, Flinders Street Station with classic architecture to the bustling Queen Victoria Market – the ideal place for you to fully feel the local life. If you love nature, do not miss the green Royal Botanic Gardens in the heart of the city or the journey along the Great Ocean Road. Whether you love the excitement or the gentle relaxing moments, Melbourne can meet your needs.

When to come: Weather and seasons in Melbourne

Located in the Southern Hemisphere, Melbourne has a temperate climate with the seasons opposite to most of Asia. This brings a pleasant surprise to visitors when experiencing “Christmas in July” for the first time or admiring “autumn leaves in April”. Melbourne’s weather is divided into four distinct seasons:

• Spring (September – November): Warm, pleasant weather, fresh nature. During this time, you can enjoy pleasant walks in the park, admire the colorful flowers at the Royal Botanic Gardens or join in the bustling outdoor festivals.
• Summer (December – February): Melbourne enters its hottest season, temperatures can exceed 35°C on some peak days. During this time, you can freely explore the sands of St Kilda or leisurely stroll through the bustling streets in the city centre.
• Autumn (March – May): One of the most beautiful seasons of the year. Autumn in Melbourne impresses with cool, pleasant weather and poetic scenery when the leaves turn bright yellow and red – ideal for taking photos or strolling.
• Winter (June – August): Melbourne’s winter climate is cold and often accompanied by light rain. This is a good time to explore cozy cafes, museums, libraries or art centers.
  No matter the season, Melbourne’s weather can change dramatically in the same day – so you should prepare flexible clothes and bring a light jacket to adapt well to the typical “four seasons in a day” weather of this city.

What to prepare before traveling to Melbourne

Melbourne tourist visa

To travel to Melbourne, you need to apply for an Australian visa (subclass 600). The application can be submitted online through the ImmiAccount system of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Visa processing times are often long and you should refer to the updated time on the official website of the Australian Department of Home Affairs at the time of application. The current visa fee is about 190 AUD (equivalent to ~3 million VND), you should check the exact fee on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website because the fee may change.

Australia Visa Service from SPUN

If you apply for a visa yourself, you are required to book a flight ticket to Melbourne in advance and buy flight insurance. This not only increases the visa approval rate but also helps you get a refund if the visa is refused – minimizing risks and saving costs for the trip. You can also use a reputable Australian visa service package to make the application process more convenient.

SIM and Internet connection

5G eSIM Australia | Optus

When traveling to Melbourne, a travel SIM card will help you easily connect to the internet to look up maps, book a car and find necessary information. Australian travel SIM cards usually have large capacity, reasonable prices and do not require a contract. You can buy a SIM card online before departure through Klook and then receive it at the airport or have it delivered to your home. Preparing a SIM card in advance not only saves time but also gives you peace of mind when you first arrive in Melbourne.

Financial preparation

Traveling to Melbourne is a dream trip but also requires careful financial preparation. On average, the cost of a self-guided trip to Melbourne ranges from 25-40 million VND/person for 7 days, depending on the destination, time and travel style. In particular, you need to calculate in advance large expenses such as airfare (12-18 million), hotel (6-10 million), food – transportation – sightseeing tickets (7-12 million).

In addition, you should prepare a reserve fund of 5-10% for unexpected expenses. To save money, you can hunt for combo air tickets + hotel, book tickets in advance for tourist attractions through Klook to avoid price increases. An important note is to bring an international payment card and some AUD cash, exchange in advance in Vietnam to be more proactive when coming to the land of kangaroos.

Getting from Melbourne airport to the city center

Melbourne has two main airports serving international and domestic passengers:

• Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL): Located about 23 km northwest of the city center, this is Melbourne’s main and busiest airport.
• Avalon Airport (AVV): About 50 km southwest of the city center, mainly serving low-cost flights and some domestic routes.

Main means of transport from Melbourne to the city centre:

SkyBus

• From MEL: SkyBus provides a quick shuttle service between the airport and the city centre (Southern Cross Station). Buses depart every 10–15 minutes, operating 24/7. Tickets cost around 19 AUD/trip, travel time 30–45 minutes.
• From AVV: SkyBus also operates from Avalon to Melbourne CBD, Werribee and Geelong. Travel time is around 50–70 minutes.

You can easily book tickets at https://www.skybus.com.au.

Taxi

• From MEL: Taxis are always available at the airport arrivals hall. Fares range from 55–65 AUD and travel time is around 20–30 minutes.
• From AVV: The taxi fare for the journey from Avalon Airport to the CBD ranges from 100-120 AUD and the estimated travel time is 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Please note that this price may change depending on the time and actual traffic situation.

Bus

From MEL: To get from Melbourne Tullamarine Airport to the CBD, you need to take bus 901 to Broadmeadows Station and then change to the train. The bus fare is only about 4.5 AUD and the total travel time is about 60-90 minutes. Note that you need to use a Myki card to pay when using public transport in Melbourne.

Self-drive car rental

If you are traveling to Melbourne and want to explore freely, Klook’s self-drive car rental service available at both airports will help you satisfy your passion. Depending on your budget and needs, you can choose the appropriate means of transport to travel from the airport to the center of Melbourne conveniently and efficiently. You can also refer to the details of How to travel from Melbourne airport to the center of Melbourne before making a choice.

Means of transport in Melbourne

Melbourne car rentals – Save up to 20%

Melbourne has a modern and convenient public transport system, helping visitors easily explore the city.

• Trams are a symbol of Melbourne, the city owns the largest tram network in the world with more than 250 km of track. In particular, the CBD (Central Business District) has a Free Tram Zone – a completely free tram area, ideal for visitors to travel between highlights such as Flinders Street Station, Federation Square or Queen Victoria Market. Some notable tram routes include No. 86, 96 and City Circle Tram (No. 35) – a free tourist route with historical commentary.
• Buses and Metro trains form Melbourne’s main public transport system, operated by Public Transport Victoria (PTV). Buses cover areas where trams or trains are not available, while Metro trains connect the CBD with the suburbs. Travellers can use their Myki cards to pay for all three modes of transport.
• In Melbourne, Uber and Taxi are the best options for quick travel or outside of public transport hours.
• Car rental is also an ideal option if you want to explore outlying tourist destinations such as the Great Ocean Road. International visitors need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) with their original driver’s licence and passport and must be 21 years or older.

*A small note is that when traveling to Melbourne, you must equip yourself with a wonderful pass called myki! The myki card is the “golden key” to help you travel easily throughout Melbourne and surrounding areas by public transport. With a compact card, you can use the tram, bus, train with just one touch – no need to buy individual tickets or carry cash.

Where to go: Suggestions for outstanding Melbourne tourist destinations for you

Melbourne is not only famous for its modern lifestyle and unique coffee culture, but also a paradise for those who love to explore. From vibrant art streets, green parks, to impressive architectural works – each destination has its own unique color of this city. In the next section, you will be suggested the most outstanding tourist destinations in Melbourne. These will be suggestions not to be missed for your first trip to Melbourne!

Melbourne Skydeck

• Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia.
• Opening hours: 12:00 to 22:00.

If you are looking for a spectacular experience to admire the panoramic view of Melbourne city from above, Melbourne Skydeck (formerly Eureka Skydeck) is definitely a destination not to be missed. Located on the 88th floor of Eureka Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the Southern Hemisphere, Melbourne Skydeck opens up a stunning 360-degree view, covering the entire city, Yarra River, Port Phillip Bay and the mountains far away on the horizon.

Melbourne Skydeck Ticket

In addition, visitors can also relax with VR Plank Experience – a virtual reality experience walking on a plank in the air or sip a glass of wine in Skydeck Bar when the sunset falls. The Observatory is open both day and night, so you can choose the right time to visit to see Melbourne. Book your Melbourne Skydeck Tickets in advance on Klook so you don’t miss out on one of the most impressive views in Australia!

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

• Address: King St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia.
• Opening hours: 10:00 to 17:00 (Weekdays); 9:30 to 17:00 (Weekends).

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium Ticket

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is a must-see destination when traveling to Melbourne, especially for those who love to explore the ocean world. Not only displaying a massive collection of more than 10,000 marine creatures, the aquarium is ideally located on the Yarra River (intersection of Flinders and King Street) and also creates opportunities for visitors of all ages to participate in exciting interactive activities.

Inside SEA LIFE Melbourne, you will explore 13 unique themed areas. At Penguin Playground, you have the chance to admire the playful King and Gentoo penguins in an icy environment. Ocean Invaders will take you into the mysterious world of glowing jellyfish while Bay of Rays allows you to observe the typical rays and sharks of Port Phillip Bay up close.

In particular, don’t miss the chance to touch starfish and shark eggs at Discovery Rockpools or come face to face with “Pinjarra” – one of Australia’s largest saltwater crocodiles, more than 5 meters long and weighing up to 750 kg. The aquarium also features the Coral Atoll area, where you can see colorful tropical fish such as clownfish and blue tangs. In addition, SEA LIFE Melbourne also organizes fish feeding shows, diving guides and many other interesting educational activities. To save time and avoid queuing, you can pre-book SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium Tickets on Klook.

Scienceworks Melbourne

Scienceworks Museum Ticket in Melbourne

• Address: 2 Booker St, Spotswood VIC 3015, Australia.
• Opening hours: 10:00 – 16:30.

Located in the Spotswood area, only about 5 km from the center of Melbourne, Scienceworks is one of the most attractive destinations for those who love to explore science in a visual and vivid way. The museum is not only a place to store knowledge but also an inspiring space for all ages to experience and learn.

With diverse and modern exhibition areas, Scienceworks offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the universe through the large dome of the Melbourne Planetarium or witness the power of electricity in the Lighting Room – where artificial lightning up to 3 meters long is created by Tesla generators.

The atmosphere here is always vibrant with interactive activities, especially the Sportsworks area – where you can race against the virtual image of Olympic athlete Cathy Freeman. Families with young children will also love the Tinkertown area, where children are encouraged to be creative and explore the world through scientific games. Scienceworks is not just a museum but also a bridge between knowledge and curiosity, between education and entertainment.

Don’t miss out on the chance to explore one of Melbourne’s most unique destinations on your next trip. Booking your Scienceworks Melbourne Pass in advance will help you enjoy your journey more comfortably and conveniently than ever before.

In addition attractions above, you also can visit other places such as Melbourne Museum, Melbourn Botanical Gardens, Flinders Street Station…

Recommended hotels in Melbourne for your trip

If you are preparing for your first trip to Melbourne, choosing the right accommodation will be an important part of creating a complete experience. This vibrant city has many hotels with diverse styles, from modern luxury to cozy, close. If you are looking for an ideal place to stay, refer to the following 3 suggested Melbourne hotels for the best choice!

InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto, an IHG Hotel

• Address: 495 Collins Street, Melbourne CBD, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
• Room rates: From VND 4,597,866/night.

Located at 495 Collins Street – one of the most vibrant and expensive streets in the heart of Melbourne, InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto is a 5-star hotel in Melbourne that is steeped in history combined with contemporary luxury. Managed by InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) – one of the world’s leading hotel groups, the hotel ensures world-class service, professionalism and sophistication.

The hotel’s ideal location will give guests easy access to prominent locations such as the Melbourne Convention Centre, Southbank Promenade, Crown Casino, Marvel Stadium and the Degraves Street food district – all within a few minutes’ walk. With a unique architecture consisting of two 19th-century heritage buildings – Neo-Gothic and Romanesque – the hotel is both ancient and sophisticatedly renovated with an impressive 9-storey skylight design. Not only does it own 253 splendid rooms and suites, the hotel also offers a perfect stay experience in the heart of a vibrant urban area. (agoda, klook)

Novotel Melbourne South Wharf

• Address: 7 Convention Centre Place, Southbank, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
• Room rates: From VND 5,125,486/night.

Novotel Melbourne South Wharf is a 4-star hotel in Melbourne located in South Wharf – one of Melbourne’s long-standing historical areas. The hotel has 26 floors with 347 luxurious rooms, many of which have large glass windows, offering panoramic views of the city or Port Phillip Bay.

The hotel is located adjacent to the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (MCEC) – the largest convention centre in the Southern Hemisphere. From here, visitors can easily access prominent destinations such as Crown Casino, Seafarers Bridge, Southern Cross Station, Docklands and the city centre within just a few minutes’ walk.

The hotel is managed by Accor Group – one of the world’s leading hotel groups, ensuring professional and world-class service quality. With a prime location, modern facilities and professional service, Novotel Melbourne South Wharf is an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers who want to explore the beauty of Melbourne. (agoda, klook)

ibis Melbourne Hotel & Apartments

• Address: 15-21 Therry Street, Melbourne CBD, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
• Room rates: From VND 2,883,086/night.

ibis Melbourne Hotel & Apartments is a 3-star hotel in Melbourne that meets international standards and belongs to the Accor group – one of the world’s leading hotel management units. The hotel has 250 rooms, including standard hotel rooms and apartments with kitchenettes, suitable for both short-term and long-term stays.

One of the biggest strengths of ibis Melbourne is its prime location, just a few minutes’ walk from Queen Victoria Market and close to famous tourist attractions such as Melbourne Central Station, State Library of Victoria or Emporium shopping area. With affordable prices and professional service, ibis Melbourne is an ideal choice for independent travelers, families or business travelers on a trip to Melbourne. (agoda, klook)

Suggestions for delicious restaurants when traveling to Melbourne

Besides its beautiful scenery and unique culture, Melbourne is also known as the “culinary paradise” of Australia. With a melting pot of cultures from around the world, this city offers a wide range of dining options, from fine dining to local eateries. If you are wondering what to eat in Melbourne, check out these suggestions!

Farmer’s Daughters

• Address: 95 Exhibition Street 80 Collins Precinct Melbourne Victoria.

Farmer’s Daughters is committed to providing a unique “farm-to-table” dining experience, highlighting local produce from Victoria’s Gippsland region. The restaurant space is divided into three distinct areas: The Deli – an all-day snack and wine bar; The Restaurant – a cozy space with a seasonal menu; and The Rooftop – an airy outdoor bar, ideal for cocktails and city views.

The restaurant’s menu changes seasonally, featuring signature dishes such as roast lamb, smoked salmon and fresh Gippsland vegetables. With a modern design space using many natural materials such as wood and greenery, Farmer’s Daughters creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere, keeping the spirit of rural Gippsland right in the heart of Melbourne.

Cumulus Inc.

• Address: 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne.

Cumulus Inc. is an all-day restaurant and bar that opened in 2008. The restaurant’s modern industrial style features high ceilings, natural light and an open design, creating a vibrant and friendly atmosphere. Cumulus Inc.’s menu focuses on seasonal dishes using fresh Victorian ingredients, showcasing the sophistication of modern Australian cuisine.

One of the restaurant’s signature dishes is the grilled lamb chops with chimichurri sauce, which is highly appreciated for its rich flavor and exquisite presentation. With a combination of quality cuisine, unique design space and convenient location, Cumulus Inc. is the ideal destination for those who want to experience Melbourne cuisine to the fullest.

Flower Drum Restaurant Melbourne (Chinese resto)

• Address: 17 Market Lane, Melbourne, Victoria.

Flower Drum is an extremely famous restaurant with Cantonese cuisine, possessing a top-notch cooking style and excellent service. The restaurant is designed luxuriously, imbued with traditional Asian features with red carpets, wooden tables and chairs and warm lighting, creating an elegant and cozy space.

Flower Drum specializes in serving traditional Cantonese dishes, using fresh seasonal ingredients to bring special flavors. One of the restaurant’s outstanding dishes is the carefully prepared Peking duck with crispy skin, tender meat, served with thin pancakes, green onions and sweet plum sauce. With more than 40 years of operation, Flower Drum is not only a favorite destination of locals but also attracts many international tourists to enjoy authentic Cantonese cuisine in Melbourne.

To have a smooth and complete trip to Melbourne, don’t forget to remember important points such as carefully studying the weather in Melbourne by season, choosing the right means of transportation in the city, making a list of attractive attractions and restaurants, and booking necessary services such as air tickets, hotels and sightseeing tickets.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Melbourne you can refer to

• Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL) Express Transfers by SkyBus
• Avalon Airport (AVV) Express Transfer by SkyBus for Melbourne City
• Werribee Zoo Ticket
• Penguin Parade, Wildlife & Phillip Island Day Tour from Melbourne
• Moonlit Sanctuary Ticket or Bus Tour
• Great Ocean Road Reverse Adventure Tour with 6 Iconic Stops
• SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium Ticket
• Melbourne Museum Ticket
• Puffing Billy and Phillip Island Wildlife Day Tour from Melbourne
• Puffing Billy Railway Ticket or Bus Tour
• Great Ocean Road Tours from Melbourne
• Great Ocean Road Day Tour: 12 Apostles, The Loch Ard Gorge and More
• Klook Pass Melbourne

Are you looking for more Melbourne travel guide and top things to do in Melbourne: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Melbourne travel blog — The fullest Melbourne city guide for a budget trip to Melbourne for the first-timers.