A visit to Melbourne's city centre puts you within easy walking distance of picturesque parks and gardens, and the winding, iconic Yarra River.
Perfect for wanders, picnics and learning about native Australian flora, the stunning 38-hectare Royal Botanic Gardens stretches out on the southern bank of the Yarra. This historic green space was established more than 170 years ago and is home to ancient trees and 3,500 species of plants. Book ahead for an Aboriginal heritage walk to be introduced to the gardens and the Country they are planted on by a local First Nations guide.
On the opposite bank, adjacent to Federation Square, Birrarung Marr is a reclaimed railyard turned modern nature space. It's home to Indigenous artworks and the enormous Federation Bells commissioned to celebrate the centenary of Australia's federation in 2001. Wander along the grassy, tree-shaded paths that follow the river, past popular public barbecue spots.
At the western edge of the central business district, Flagstaff Gardens was the first public gardens in Melbourne. While Fitzroy Gardens, near Melbourne's historic Parliament House at the CBD's northern edge, is the pretty site of Cook's Cottage – the birthplace of 19th-century explorer Captain James Cook – which was transported from Yorkshire, England. Don't miss the conservatory filled with indoor plant displays, a mini Tudor village and tree carvings by a local artist.
North of the city centre, the gorgeous Carlton Gardens features a pond and fountain, and forms the surrounds of the grand Royal Exhibition Building, erected for the Great Exhibition of 1880.
