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Top 10 attractions in Melbourne

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Penguin Parade
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Gippsland

Penguin Parade

8.5
4.3/5
189 reviews
The Penguin Parade is a popular attraction in Phillip Island Nature Park. Here you can hear the penguins' "whoosh" up close and watch the little penguins slowly walk back to the caves on land from the sea. This penguin, which is unique to Australia, is small and cute, with an average height of only 33 cm. Regardless of the season, they have returned to their nests along the same route every night for thousands of years, which is of great ornamental and educational value. △ The little penguins leave the island and go out to sea to find food during the day, and return to their nests on the shore to rest at night. △ These little penguins are the smallest penguins in the world. Not only are they small in size, they are also very timid. Please do not use flash to avoid irritating their eyes. △ Penguins can be seen returning to their nests all year round. The weather is warm from September to January of the following year, which is the breeding season. Penguins will be more active and suitable for viewing.Summerlands · 78.7km from Melbourne
Carlton Gardens
No. 4 of Spring Outings in Australia

Carlton Gardens

8.2
4.1/5
75 reviews
Carlton Gardens is located on the north side of Melbourne's city center and is one of the few United Nations World Cultural Heritage sites in Australia. The core building of the garden, the Royal Exhibition Building, was built in the late 19th century, combining Byzantine, Renaissance and Gothic styles. It has hosted the World Expo and is still used for large-scale exhibitions and celebrations. Its dome structure and cast iron decorations show the architectural features of the Victorian era, and the light yellow tones of the exterior walls form a harmonious contrast with the surrounding green plants. The layout of the garden is mainly geometrically symmetrical, with a central fountain surrounded by an open lawn and neatly trimmed shrubs and seasonal flower beds on both sides. The garden is shaded by ancient trees, and many trails connect historical buildings and leisure areas. Citizens often jog or have picnics here. The glass curtain wall of the Melbourne Museum on the south side adds modern elements to the classical landscape, creating a unique atmosphere of interweaving time and space. As a cultural and educational venue, the garden regularly hosts open-air movies, art fairs and other activities, and its winter light show attracts many families. When visiting, pay attention to the reliefs of mythological figures on the facade of the building and the original wooden stage structure preserved inside the exhibition hall.Carlton · 703m from downtown
Melbourne Skydeck
2026 Global 100 - Night Attractions

Melbourne Skydeck

8.1
4.6/5
751 reviews
Melbourne Skydeck, the Eureka Skydeck 88, is located on the 88th floor, is 285 meters above the ground. With a direct elevator, you can overlook the entire city of Melbourne, 360 degrees, in a few seconds. There is a viewfinder for accurate observation of important landmarks throughout Melbourne. There is also a glass cube called The Edge that extends out of the edge of the building, and extremely exciting to stand up and look downstairs. △ Enjoy the sunset over Melbourne city △ Feel the exciting Edge experienceSouthbank · 1.1km from downtown
Sovereign Hill
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Goldfields

Sovereign Hill

7.8
4.6/5
573 reviews
Sovereign Hill is a living museum that presents the story of Ballarat as a gold rush boomtown. It covers 30,000 square metres of open space including a township with a gold panning area, underground mines, costumed characters, coach rides and 1850s shops, trades, schools and dwellings. △ Traveling back to the gold rush era of the 1850s △ Observe confection demonstration up close △ Listen to the story of the Redcoat SoldiersAustralia · Golden Point
Phillip Island
2026 Global 50 - Cool Water Escapes

Phillip Island

7.4
4.7/5
500 reviews
Phillip Island, also known as Penguin Island, is located at the entrance of Western Port Bay in southern Victoria, Australia. It is a true wildlife paradise where you can see koalas, kangaroos, penguins, seals, and many other wild animals. △ The Penguin Parade is one of the most popular attractions on Phillip Island. Here, you can hear the "huffing" sounds of the penguins up close and watch the little penguins waddle from the sea back to their burrows on land. △ Panny's Chocolate Factory is a fun and delicious attraction on Phillip Island, perfect for a family visit. You can watch the chocolate-making process and purchase them as souvenirs. △ Phillip Island Wildlife Park is home to many native species, including kangaroos, koalas, emus, and various birds. Visitors can observe these animals up close, feed kangaroos, and take photos with koalas.Ventnor · 78km from Melbourne
State Library Victoria
No. 18 of Best Things to Do in Victoria

State Library Victoria

6.5
4.5/5
289 reviews
A modern learning organization in the heart of historic Melbourne, the State Library of Victoria is an interesting blend of library and museum. The largest library in the state, it is home to over 2 million books and volumes of audio and video recordings. The library also contains a large selection of artwork and historical artifacts on display for the public to view. The library also plays host to an assortment of traveling exhibits and entertainment acts. This library is much more than just a place for reading. Come explore, delight in the art and maybe take in a little something.Melbourne · 522m from downtown
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens
No. 2 of Spring Outings in Australia

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens

6.5
4.6/5
468 reviews
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens is located on the beautiful south bank of the Yarra River, where thousands of exotic plants from Australia and around the world thrive. The gardens also feature diverse architecture and engaging activities. 1. The Children's Garden helps kids explore the natural world Inside the Children's Garden, there are many interactive facilities where kids can play to their heart's content and get up close with nature. The garden offers everything to help children explore the natural world: crawl-through plant tunnels, climbable rocks, and bamboo groves perfect for playing hide-and-seek. The Children's Garden is temporarily closed for maintenance every winter. Opening hours during other seasons are Wednesday–Sunday from 10:00 AM until sunset, with daily operation during Victoria school holidays. 2.ObservatoryExplore the brilliant starry sky Next to the Children's GardenObservatoryThe bright yellow exterior walls and silver semi-dome make it easily recognizable. Built between 1861–1863, it has maintained close ties with the Astronomical Society of Victoria. The interior is only open to tour groups, and general visitors cannot enter. Planetarium visits are typically scheduled for the evening. 3. Herbarium plant specimen collection To the right of the Children's Garden is the Herbarium, a white circular building. It houses over 1.2 million plant specimens, mostly from Victoria, Australia, with more than half being at least a century old. The facility also includes a small library dedicated to botanical literature. Unfortunately, visitors are not permitted inside. 4. Tropical Greenhouse Step into the tropical greenhouse and discover exotic plants from around the world.Melbourne · 2.3km from downtown
Hosier Ln
No. 14 of Best Things to Do in Melbourne

Hosier Ln

6.5
4.4/5
192 reviews
There are a lot of graffiti in Melbourne, which is also a major feature of Melbourne. Among them, Hosier Lane is quite famous. This is an officially licensed graffiti location. The graffiti will be refreshed from time to time, and local graffiti celebrities will gather at Hosier Lane to create again.Melbourne · 581m from downtown
Old Melbourne Gaol
No. 16 of Best Things to Do in Melbourne

Old Melbourne Gaol

6.2
4.2/5
117 reviews
Many tourists are intrigued by the history of the Old Melbourne Gaol. Victoria's oldest surviving prison, which operated from 1845 until 1924, is now one of Australia's most famous museums and attractions. Known to harbor Australia's most violent and notorious criminals, including Australian convict and folk hero Ned Kelly. With most of the original architecture untouched, a tour of the historical prison gives guests a bone-chilling experience. Check out the unique souvenirs and memorabilia at the gift shop, or take a candlelight tour of the prison at your own risk!Melbourne · 720m from downtown
Yarra River
No. 13 of Night Attractions in Australia

Yarra River

6.1
4.5/5
317 reviews
The lower end of the Yarra River near Melbourne, Australia, is a must-see location if you love nature. The river is home to a vast and fragile ecosystem, including several species of fish. Dolphins are often seen swimming upstream into this river due to the salinity of its southern waters. The banks of the Yarra River are home to cultural events, such as Melbourne's annual Moomba festival which includes a water skiing competition. Rowing is another popular sport along the Yarra and Melbourne's private schools are known for training their teams here.Southbank · 1.4km from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in Melbourne

Featured Cultural experiences in Melbourne

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Old Melbourne Gaol: Entry Ticket
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Plaza Premium Lounge VIP lounge service at Melbourne Airport
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Melbourne Puffing Billy Steam Train + Redwood Forest + Yarra Valley & Dandenongs Ranges Day Tour [Premium Group | Hotel Transfers]
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Melbourne Immigration Museum: Entry Ticket
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Mosaic Art Classes Melbourne: Turkish Lamp Workshop
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Duration: 150 mins
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Private Melbourne Tour with a Local: Custom Highlights and Gems
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Duration: 24 hrs
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Melbourne: Mosaic Art Classes - Turkish Lamp Workshop
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Duration: 2.5 hrs
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Featured Outdoor experiences in Melbourne

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[September Promotion] Melbourne Great Ocean Road Trail + Twelve Apostles Day Trip
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4.8/5
· 853 reviews· 9k booked
Duration: 6.8 hrs
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96.1% of travelers recommend
From£20.24
[Affordable Price for Tomorrow] Melbourne Puffing Billy Steam Train + Phillip Island & Penguin Island Day Trip
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4.8/5
· 1.2k reviews· 15.8k booked
Duration: 6 hrs
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Winter limited-time special: 1-day tour to Phillip Island cruise for whale & dolphin watching in Melbourne
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4.9/5
· 26 reviews· 162 booked
Duration: 11.6 hrs
English
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Mercedes-Benz CNY 599] Melbourne Puffing Billy Railway + Phillip Island 1-day tour
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4.8/5
· 1k reviews· 14.8k booked
Duration: 6.4 hrs
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31 consecutive positive reviews
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Melbourne Great Ocean Road + Twelve Apostles Day Tour -General Route or Reverse Route-The reverse bus tour, plus some tour types, includes lunch at the zoo at the participants' own expense.
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Melbourne Puffing Billy Steam Train & Phillip Island Penguin Parade one-day tour
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4.7/5
· 282 reviews· 1.7k booked
Duration: 6.1 hrs
English
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93.6% of travelers recommend
From£91.46
Great Ocean Road Classic Sunset Day-Tour [English & Chinese speaking driver/guide & popular spots & air-conditioned bus] in Melbourne
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4.7/5
· 207 reviews· 956 booked
Duration: 8.8 hrs
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Melbourne Great Ocean Road skydiving [high-altitude ocean view skydiving/free skydiving certificate]
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4.5/5
· 15 reviews· 161 booked
Duration: 1 hr
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Featured Food & drink in Melbourne

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Affordable and relaxing - 1-day tour to Puffing Billy Railway and Yarra Valley & Dandenongs Ranges winery in Melbourne
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4.9/5
· 84 reviews· 1.2k booked
Duration: 4.8 hrs
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74 consecutive positive reviews
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[Includes Wine Tasting] 1-day Tour to Yarra Valley & Dandenongs Ranges Wineries from Melbourne / A Wine Feast
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5.0/5
· 12 reviews· 224 booked
Duration: 6 hrs
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Melbourne classic dinner cruise experience
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Yarra Valley & Dandenongs Ranges | wineries | hot air balloon private charter
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Melbourne Puffing Billy Train + Redwood Forest + Yarra Valley Winery English Day Tour in Australia
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 5.9 hrs
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Flavours of Melbourne CBD – Food Tour
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Duration: 24 hrs
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Featured Spa & wellness in Melbourne

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1-day round-trip tour to Peninsula Hot Springs from Melbourne
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Duration: 8.3 hrs
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Mornington Peninsula: Hot Springs and Body Clay Ritual
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Melbourne: Small Group Peninsula Hot Springs, Lunch & Wine
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4.9/5
· 54 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
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26 consecutive positive reviews
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Melbourne Mornington Peninsula join-in tour hot springs, lunch and winery tour
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Melbourne: Peninsula Hot Springs private charter day tour
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Duration: 8.4 hrs
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Mornington Peninsula Small Group Wine & Hot Springs with Lunch
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4.6/5
· 12 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
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Melbourne: Peninsula Hot Springs Early Bathing & Scenic Tour
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4.5/5
· 4 reviews
Duration: 6.5 hrs
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Free things to do in Melbourne

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Melbourne Cruises

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Private Tours in Melbourne

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What travellers say about Melbourne

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Anonymous user7 September 2026
5.0
Really awesome experience to see the natural penguin back to home from sea. They will come back in group by group. All the penguin are so cutie and lovely. Must visit penguin parade if you are travelling to Melbourne. Photo taking is prohibited after evening

Penguin Parade

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Mandadadada30 May 2023
5.0
Lovely place to walk past on the way to the Melbourne museum. This time of the year, there’s autumn leaves covering the walkways. There is even a small pond with some ducks in the corner. And right in front of the royal exhibition hall, there is a fountain where sometimes you will catch couples taking their wedding photos here.

Carlton Gardens

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Avinash Khanapur22 March 2026
4.0
I have completed summit of various tallest buildings and observatory decks. However Eureka Towers lacks the punch or experience and assuming that I was never designed from a commercial aspects. However being jn CBD, it does offer some spectacular views and photographic opportunities. But challenge always remains that Wearher should support u. The GenZ experiences like EDGE and VR are there but can be much better. Felt they are not value for money.

Melbourne Skydeck

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Shiri W19 August 2026
5.0
Was nice when its cold weather, in the dark to see the Christmas lights, like a fairytale world. Better than summer visit

Sovereign Hill

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谢颖华24 October 2025
5.0
It's actually not bad. There are a lot of people, and I really followed the online suggestions and bought ordinary seats. There is no need to buy too good seats. They will be close to each other anyway. Overall, this trip is worth experiencing.

Phillip Island

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lucialuo4 February 2025
5.0
Free to visit, no, it should be called free admission. The library, which was originally supposed to be a quiet space for reading, is now full of tourists taking photos and checking in! The library is large and beautiful, an old and beautiful building that is well worth a visit!

State Library Victoria

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蝴蝶飞了25 November 2024
5.0
The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is one of Australia's most famous botanical gardens. It is located on the banks of the Yarra River south of Melbourne's city center and covers an area of ​​about 38 hectares. The garden is famous for its beautiful natural scenery, diverse flora and tranquil environment. It is an ideal place for local residents and tourists to take a leisurely walk. Scenic features: 1. Diverse plant areas The garden has more than 8,500 species of plants, including native Australian plants and rare plants from all over the world. In particular, the Australian rainforest area and the cactus garden show completely different natural landscapes. 2. Lakes and wetlands The central lake (Ornamental Lake) is the core landscape of the garden. The lake reflects the surrounding trees and sky, providing visitors with a peaceful view. There are seats and paths by the lake, suitable for slow walking and relaxation. 3. Hiking and viewing trails There are many trails in the garden that shuttle through the trees. From the winding trails, you can enjoy the natural landscape from different angles, especially in spring and autumn, when the garden is most colorful. 4. Landscape Architecture and Sculptures There are some exquisite pavilions, stone bridges and sculptures in the garden. These buildings are harmoniously integrated with the natural environment, adding cultural and artistic atmosphere to the scenic area. 5. Bird watching and wildlife The garden is home to many kinds of birds, including black swans, parrots and ducks, making it a paradise for bird watchers. In addition, you can occasionally see traces of kangaroos or possums. 6. Seasonal landscape In spring, the garden is full of flowers, especially the rose garden area, which is fragrant; in autumn, maple trees and deciduous plants present brilliant colors of golden and crimson. Featured activities: • Moonlight Cinema During the summer, visitors can enjoy open-air movies on the lawn and experience the combination of nature and culture. • Guided tours and educational activities The botanical garden provides free or paid guided tours to help visitors better understand plants and their ecological significance. Summary The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is not only a place to appreciate natural beauty, but also a window to experience Australia's unique ecological environment. Whether it's a leisurely walk, a family gathering, or a photography project, this place can bring an unforgettable experience.

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens

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Journeyyyme25 May 2023
4.0
The graffiti street is full of art. It's so cool. There might be homeless people. Overall, I like it a lot. It's a street full of art.

Hosier Ln

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小岛乱子29 January 2026
5.0
It feels like stepping onto a movie set, with a unique sense of time travel. Especially for movie buffs, it's a must-see when visiting Melbourne. If you're staying in the city center, it's within walking distance. A top choice for independent travelers.

Old Melbourne Gaol

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多多猪5 December 2025
4.0
A boat trip on the Yarra River in Melbourne was quite pleasant. The river's current was very calm, and the boat facilities were decent. Complimentary coffee and tea were provided on board, and the ride was very smooth. English commentary was also available along the way. The water quality was average; it wasn't particularly murky, but it wasn't exceptionally clear either. However, the scenery along the banks of the Yarra River in Melbourne was quite nice. 👍

Yarra River

Popular cities near Melbourne

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Melbourne?

Don't miss these attractions in Melbourne: Penguin Parade, Carlton Gardens, and Melbourne Skydeck. If you like Cultural experiences, try Old Melbourne Gaol: Entry Ticket. If you enjoy Outdoor experiences, try [September Promotion] Melbourne Great Ocean Road Trail + Twelve Apostles Day Trip.

You can give Affordable and relaxing - 1-day tour to Puffing Billy Railway and Yarra Valley & Dandenongs Ranges winery in Melbourne and [Includes Wine Tasting] 1-day Tour to Yarra Valley & Dandenongs Ranges Wineries from Melbourne / A Wine Feast a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

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