Melbourne has been on our travel bucket list for over a decade now. Not only is it on the opposite end of the world, but it has an amazing arts scene that’s hard to replace. That, and the beaches- we can’t forget the beaches. Figuring out what to do in Melbourne can be a chore, especially if you’re going for a short period of time. So, in order to help you have the best trip possible, we’ve put together a 4 day itinerary that will be sure to please everyone.
How to get there:
Your choices from North America are pretty limited. Airplane. You can take a boat, but why would you want to spend days and days in the water. Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Etihad and Qantas all operate flights from London Heathrow to Melbourne’s Tullamarine airport.
Where to stay:
You have a ton of options when it comes to place to stay. If you’re counting your pennies to be able to experience all that Melbourne has to offer, we suggest, Sleep and Go. There are also a ton of luxury hotels available if that’s your kind of thing.
DAY 1:
Get to know the city.
We also suggest getting a lay of the land before you make your way around any city. How else are you going to see where you want to focus your time if you don’t survey your options first? We suggest hoping on a bike, and wander the city. We also suggest checking out the Merri Creek Trail and the Yarra Trail. The perfect way to get rid of jet lag, and get your workout in while looking at some of the most breaktaking views in Melbourne. Also, this is a great way to get acquainted with the city without spending any money (not counting the bike rental).
All this biking is going to make you tired, so we suggest heading to Fed Square and take in the ongoing performances, and free events. Oh, and there is free wifi here so you can catch up on your Instagram posting here. See www.fedsquare.com
End your day on the Eureka Skydeck. There is no better way to get an idea of where you had been the entire day than watching it from one of the highest points in the world. From $19.50, but book ahead and save.
DAY 2:
It’s all about art.
Find some street art. Another free activity, but we can’t recommend it enough. Start with Hosier Lane, a laneway in the middle of the city and really close to Flinders Street, has some of the best and most famous street art in Melbourne.
Just incase you haven’t gotten your fill of all things art, head to Graigner Museum to get to know Percy Aldridge Grainger, and his eccentricities a bit better. Located at the University of Melbourne, Gate 13, Royal Parade, Parkville. Open Tue-Fri, and Sun, 1pm-4.30pm. Admission: Free.
And end the day off by heading to St Paul’s Cathedral/Flinder’s St Station. This stunning Gothic cathedral is across the street from Flinder’s St Station, and worth the visit. This is the perfect place to sit and admire this beauty of a hidden gem in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city.
DAY 3:
Get you bearings.
Start by heading to The Queen Victoria Market to pick up any knick-knacks that you’re been wanting to get. This vibrant market isn’t just for tourists. You’ll find plenty of local here for their local supplies. We suggest grabbing breakfast/lunch here as it provides a nice change of pace to the hustle and bustle of the Melbourne City Centre.
End your day at the Great Ocean Road. This is where you get to rent a car, and wander along the coast at your leisure. You also have the option of getting on a small group tour or a coach. This is why people come to Melbourne. The scenery is stunning, and worth the trip across the Atlantic.
Regardless of what route you decide to go, the 243km stretch along the Victorian Coast will provide you with some of the most breath-taking views.
DAY 4
It’s all about the Penguins.
Yes, you read that right. You can’t come all the way across the world, and not go look at penguins. While there are plenty of things to do on Phillip Island including the Koala Conservation Centre close by, the little tuxedoed birds will steal your heart. A mere 2 hours away from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a day trip worth going on before you pack your bags and head home.
