A day in Melbourne

Dive into downtown Melbourne for a day and get into the rhythm of this exciting metropolis. Discover distinctly Melbourne attractions, primo shopping and a world-renowned culinary scene right in the heart of town.

Hop on and off the free City Circle Tram as it loops around the CBD, creating the perfect jumping off point for major and minor attractions.

Squares and laneways

Start at cultural hub, Federation Square. Take in exemplary works by Australian artists past and present at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, explore film and digital culture at ACMI, or learn about Indigenous history on a walk led by guides from the Koorie Heritage Trust.

Cross Flinders Street and delve into the city’s laneway tendrils for street-art inspiration. Cruise through uber-famous Hosier Lane, nearby Rutledge Lane and further east to AC/DC Lane and Duckboard Place and come face to face with a wild display of urban art.

Coffee breaks, shopping escapades

It's about time for a pit stop and you can't go wrong with a sweet or savoury pick-me-up from Degraves Street. Cafes Dukes at Ross House or Journal do Melbourne coffee right, while blinged-out Bruentti Oro evokes the pasticcerie of Rome. Following the laneway, cross over Collins Street to check out the gorgeously ornate Block Arcade and its bevy of boutiques.

Continue further north to explore glitzy Emporium, home to over 200 designers, boutiques and gift stores, as well as a dedicated gaming and entertainment hub.

Melbourne Central offers more great shopping plus striking views of the 19th-century façade of the State Library of Victoria. Step inside to wonder at the magnificent domed reading room. 

For boutique-style shops to switch up your seasonal wardrobe, check out fashion establishments such as Vault in the Block Arcade, Masons menswear and Alpha60 on Flinders Lane.

Venture northwest to the legendary Queen Victoria Market. Pick up fresh bread, produce and deli delights for your ultimate picnic lunch or tuck into hot borek, bratwurst and jam doughnuts as you shop for souvenirs.

NGV and parklands

Spend some time by the great Yarra River, the perfect backdrop to your cityscape pics. From Flinders Street Station, cross the river to Southbank and South Wharf, a waterside entertainment precinct. 

Find myriad dining options, including Bistro Guillaume, Pure South Dining Room and The Atlantic, or toast to glorious river views at the Arbory or Ponyfish Island.

Need some green in your day? While away an afternoon in Melbourne's famous public parks and gardens. Cross the road into the Domain Parklands, past the Shrine of Remembrance war memorial and onto the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Neighbourhoods

If you have some time up your sleeve, venture out into the surrounding neighbourhoods, each with its own charms. Enjoy seaside breezes and vibes at St Kilda, eclectic arts and eats in Fitzroy or a taste of Italy on Lygon Street in Carlton, all accessible by tram.