Melbourne is known for being one of the most artistic and unique cities in all of Australia! From the works of art in the streets full of graffiti to the endless tourist hotspots, this Melbourne Itinerary has something for everyone.
I actually explored Melbourne City over the course of 6 days but everything I did can easily be squeezed into 3 days in Melbourne.
So if you’re only on a whistle-stop tour of the city, then this 3 Day Melbourne Itinerary is going to be perfect for you. Equally, if you have a little more time in Melbourne then spread the load and take it easy, it’s totally up to you.
Also in this Melbourne Itinerary, I have included some other useful information on how to get to Melbourne, where to stay in Melbourne, getting around the city, things to know before you go and the best time to visit.
Have you got travel insurance for Australia? I know that nobody likes to talk about this stuff but accidents can happen and having World Nomads Insurance can save you thousands of dollars if something goes wrong.
Melbourne Itinerary Overview – 3 Days In Melbourne
Day 1:
• Eureka Skydeck
• Shrine Of Remembrance
• St Kilda and Brighton
Day 2:
• Melbourne River Cruise
• Albert Park and Beach
• Melbourne City Bikes
Day 3:
• Melbourne Ice Bar
• South Wharf
• Queen Victoria Market
• Melbourne Zoo
Where Is Melbourne & How To Get There
Melbourne is a city within the state of Victoria in Australia. Situated on Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne is famed for its art, cafe culture and incredible architecture. Years ago when Melbourne was being established, they decided that all buildings must be different from one another, henceforth creating this incredibly unique city.
By Plane:
Whether you’re coming from abroad or taking an internal flight within Australia, you’ll fly into Melbourne Airport in Tullamarine. From here you can grab any taxi or take the Sky Bus and make your way into the city.
Melbourne City is only about 20 to 30 minutes drive from Tullamarine Airport, depending on traffic.
Search All → Flights to Melbourne on Skyscanner.com
By Train:
Linked up by an incredible system of trams and trains, it’s super easy to make your way into Melbourne City via the train. The main station you’ll come into is the Southern Cross train station. This is the most centrally located train station within Melbourne.
From here you can take a taxi to your accommodation or jump on one of the many trams located outside the station. Within central Melbourne, there is a fee-free tram zone which is great for the budget when planning your Melbourne Itinerary.
Melbourne Itinerary – Day 1:
Eureka Skydeck
Standing 88 floors and almost 300 meters above sea level, the Eureka Skydeck in Melbourne is the World’s Tallest Residential Tower and the highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere.
Eureka Skydeck is one of the top attractions in the city and something that’s not to be missed on your Melbourne 3 day itinerary. This Melbourne landmark is located right in the center of the city making it super easy to find and super close to many other attractions.
With a range of different entry tickets and packages on offer, you have a few options depending on your budget. Click Here to purchase you Eureka Skydeck ticket online in advance with Klook for just $20.35 AUD.
At the top of Eureka Tower, you’ll be greeted with 360 degree, panoramic views of Melbourne City from a birdseye perspective. You’ll be able to take the walk around, marveling at the sights and reading the signs which inform you of the surrounding buildings.
If you purchased one of the packages that come with the additional extras, you’ll have the chance to take part in the Virtual Reality game where you get to walk on the Skydeck Plank. Equally, if you’ve purchased the Edge Experience tickets, you’ll queue up and wait your turn to experience the fear of stepping on the glass floor, 88 floors above.
Full Blog Post → Eureka Skydeck Melbourne
88 floors up – Melbourne Itinerary
Eureka Skydeck – 3 Days In Melbourne
Panoramic views of Melbourne
Eureka Skydeck Plank
Shrine Of Remembrance
This has to be one of the most underrated tourist attractions in the city and not to be missed on your Melbourne itinerary. The Shrine of Remembrance, commonly known as The Shrine is a war memorial standing in the center of Melbourne, located in Kings Domain on St Kilda Road.
Built for the women and men who served in World War I to remember the bravery they showed whilst serving their country. Take a walk around, learning about the people who served for Australia before climbing the stairs and walking out on the top balcony to soak up some of the most incredible views Melbourne has to offer.
Search All → Hostels / Resorts / Hotels in Melbourne
Shrine Of Remembrance
St Kilda & Brighton
A little further out of town, escape to the seaside town of St Kilda and Brighton during your 3 days in Melbourne. Two very popular towns, running side-by-side and home to some incredible beaches.
Famed for their brightly colored beach huts, Brighton is home to some stunning homes boasting amazing architecture, if that is your thing. If not, grab a towel, a few Corona’s and spend the day down by the beach. Don’t forget to get an Instagram-worth shot in front of the beach huts.
If you’re into water sports, St Kilda is a great location for those who enjoy windsurfing. Melbourne is known for being a windy city at times and St Kilda provides the best stomping ground for those who enjoy water activities.
Brighton beach huts
Melbourne Itinerary – Day 2:
Melbourne River Cruise
Fancy seeing the city a little differently, jump on one of the many Melbourne River Cruises that take you up and down the river, educating you on the buildings towering above you and the history of this incredible city.
You have the choice of which cruise operator to take and what direction you wish to travel in. Head inland, learning about things such as the sports arenas and the development of the city in that direction, or take the tour that heads towards the ports and docklands.
Here you’ll learn about the development and history of these highly important docklands, where they’ll also talk to you about the tragedies and successes Melbourne has suffered in its growth over the years. An absolute must on your Melbourne itinerary.
Albert Park & Beach
Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, head down to Albert Park. Slightly south of the city and bordering the beach, Albert Park is the perfect way to get some downtime, have time to do a little workout and soak up the atmosphere.
With a lake in the middle, cafes and restaurants surrounding and beautiful walkways, this is a great way to slow the pace of your Melbourne itinerary.
The highlight of Albert Park has to be the view of the Melbourne City Skyline. Simply epic!
Melbourne City Bikes
Dotted around the city, you’ll see Melbourne City Bikes, a cheap, easy and quick way of getting around town to all of the tourist spots. Download the app, locate your closest bike and hop on.
Whilst you’re down near Albert Park, I highly recommend getting some of these bikes. What better way to spend an afternoon than riding around one of the best locations in Melbourne!
Search All → Hostels / Resorts / Hotels in Melbourne
Melbourne City Bikes
Melbourne Itinerary – Day 3:
Melbourne Ice Bar
Ready for one of the most unique experiences to add to your Melbourne itinerary? Head to the one and only Ice Bar in Australia, Melbourne Ice Bar. Located in Federation Square, Melbourne Ice Bar is home to one of the most unique bars in the city.
The standard entry to Melbourne Ice Bar is around $39 AUD, however, when booking online with Klook you can save a couple of dollars and get this for $37 AUD. The standard entry also includes a complimentary cocktail.
Head in, get rugged up and take advantage of one of the free cocktails you get upon arrival. Enjoy looking around this insane bar, play a little ice hockey or simply pose for the cameras inside the bar. This is definitely a great way to spend the last day of your 3 days in Melbourne.
Full Blog Post: Ice Bar Melbourne
Melbourne Ice Bar
Ice Bar – Melbourne City Tour
South Wharf
Feel like you need to walk off the alcohol from the Ice Bar? Take a walk all the way down the South Wharf in Melbourne. This stunning walk through the city, all along the river takes you past historic and modern buildings, through some stunning suburbs and past some of the many entertainers along the wharf.
Feeling peckish? Jump into one of the many restaurants and bars located along the South Wharf and grab yourself a snack or something more substantial. Ranging from street-food-style bars to high-class restaurants, there’s something for everyone along here. Alternatively, just enjoy the view and atmosphere that South Wharf has to offer.
Queen Victoria Market
This one depends on what day you visit Melbourne. Closed on Wednesdays & Mondays and closed by 4:00 pm every day, Queen Victoria Market located in West Melbourne is a great way to see away some hours, wandering around the market looking for a few bargains. Whether it be souvenirs for loved ones or unique, one-of-a-kind finds for yourself, this market has it all.
As I mentioned, make sure you check the opening hours of Queen Victoria Market before you go as it’s definitely not an open-all-hours attraction. If you unfortunately happen to miss it, then check out the next thing on this Melbourne itinerary.
Queen Victoria Market – Melbourne Itinerary
Nighttime at the markets
Melbourne Zoo
Missed the market? Why not head to Melbourne Zoo? Great for both adults and children and home to a plethora of animal species, Melbourne Zoo is a great way to see away a few hours. Take part in animal feeding, educate yourself with the keeper talks and just enjoy what this zoo has to offer.
At $38 AUD for adults when booked online with Klook, it’s definitely worth the money for this Melbourne day trip. If you’re looking to save a bit of money, children under 16 get in FREE on weekends only!
Get Your Ticket → Melbourne Zoo
Curious giraffe at Melbourne Zoo
Best Places To Stay In Melbourne
Melbourne has hundreds of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay in Melbourne to suit the needs of luxury travelers and budget backpackers. See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:
Luxury: Crowne Plaza
Arguably the largest and most luxurious hotel within the city, the Crowne Plaza. Located right on the South Wharf and in the heart of the city. From concierge, luxury large rooms, comfortable beds and a top-quality restaurant located at the foot of the hotel, this is perfect for those looking for a luxury stay in Melbourne.
Check prices on Agoda | Check prices on Booking.com
Mid Range: Miami Hotel Melbourne
Located in West Melbourne and within walking distance to the city center, Miami Hotel makes for the perfect mid-range accommodation in Melbourne. With small, compact rooms, equipped with kitchenette, private bathrooms and wifi, this hotel is great value for money. Perfect for couples, traveling friends and families.
Check prices on Agoda | Check prices on Booking.com
Budget: Discovery Parks
This one is perfect for those on a budget, whether you’re a backpacker, couple or solo traveler. If you’re traveling in a van, this accommodation option is perfect for you. Discovery Parks campground, located in Braybrook, North-West of the city has to be one of the nicest campgrounds around. With heated, clean toilets and shower rooms, wifi and swimming pool. If you’re not traveling in a van, book into one of their many cabins. A little more expensive than the campsites but still well worth the money and you still get to make use of the incredible features. This accommodation is a little further out of the city so either jump on the train or take a taxi.
FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN MELBOURNE, SEARCH ON AGODA OR SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM
Getting Around Melbourne
Honestly, if your feet allow it, the best way to get around Melbourne City is on foot. It’s a relatively small city, everything is within easy reach and you get to experience everything the city has to offer and see a hell of a lot more.
If you’re unable to walk, the next best thing is the tram. In the heart of the city, you’ll find the free tram zone which is where you’re able to hop on and off the trams for free. If you’re outside of that zone, then you’ll need to purchase a MYKI card that you’re able to top up and use to tap on and off the trams.
Note: You’re unable to use your debit/credit card to pay for the trams.
If you have your own rental car then great! This makes it much easier for you to explore Melbourne at your own pace.
Search All ∼ Car Rentals in Melbourne
Best Time To Visit Melbourne
The best time to visit Melbourne is during the Autumn months between March and May for good temperatures and fewer tourists.
Alternatively, visiting Melbourne in Spring between the months of September to November is also a great time of the year, weatherwise.
3 Days In Melbourne – Things To Know Before You Go
Traffic can be pretty mega. If you’re needing to grab a taxi in or out of the city, be prepared to pay quite a lot for it. Try to stick to trams and trains… it’ll get you around a lot quicker.
If you’re into shopping, Melbourne has the 2nd largest H&M in the world and within the building, is a compass painted on the roof which marks the exact center of Melbourne.
BEST MELBOURNE TOURS
MAP OF MELBOURNE
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MY CAMERA GEAR
• DSLR Mirrorless Camera: Sony A7ii
• Drone Camera: DJI Mavic Pro 2
• GoPro: GoPro Hero 8 Black
• Everyday Lens: Sony F2.8 24/70mm
• Camera Bag: Lowepro Protactic 31L
• Selfie Stick: Sandmarc Metal Edition 1.2m
• Tripod: Joby Flexible GorillaPod
• GoPro Dome: Underwater GoPro Dome
• Power Bank: Anker Powerbank
• External Hardrive: WD Elements 4TB
WHAT TO PACK FOR MELBOURNE?
• Waterproof Phone Case: Universal Waterproof Case
• Reusable Water Bottle: Hydro Flask Water Bottle
• Rain Jacket: North Face Rain Jacket
• Day Bag: Nomatic 20L Day Bag
• Power Adapter: Universal Power Adapter
• Packing Cubes: 4 Set Packing Cubes
• Microfibre Towel: Quick Dry Travel Towel
• Travel Insurance: World Nomads Travel Insurance
• Money Belt: Hidden Money Belt
I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions at all about this Melbourne Itinerary, please leave me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
Happy Travels!
