Free Things To Do In Melbourne
What to Expect
Melbourne is globally renowned for its beautiful arts, culture, and culinary delights, but it can stay in the bank to discover its many offerings. There are countless free things to do in Melbourne, whether you’re a local, a visiting tourist, or a student on a budget. From wandering through the charming laneways to exploring the treasures of Victoria Harbour, there’s truly something for everyone in this vibrant city.
One of the most unmissable experiences that shouldn’t cost a single cent is exploring Melbourne’s diverse range of street art. The city’s street art scene is world-famous and has become a defining characteristic of Melbourne’s urban landscape. You can start your journey of discovery at Hosier Lane, a narrow street between Flinders Street and Finders Lane. You could easily spend hours admiring its colourful murals and thought-provoking stencils.
Another must-visit in Melbourne is the iconic Queen Victoria Market. The market is situated on the northern edge of the CBD and is free to enter. Here you’ll find an array of fresh produce, international street food, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. Even if you can’t afford to splurge, plenty of free entertainment, including live music performances, workshops, and cooking shows, is still available.
If you’re hunting for stunning panoramic views of the city’s skyline, head to the Yarra River and Birrarung Marr Park. You’ll find ample space to browse the sculptures, enjoy a picnic, or sunbathe on the lush green lawns. Whether you’re exploring the city on foot or via public transport, the City Circle Tram is a fantastic way to see Melbourne’s most famous landmarks and attractions, and the tram ride is complimentary for all passengers.
Finally, Melbourne is home to many incredible museums, galleries, and exhibitions that offer free admission year-round. The Melbourne Museum is an excellent place to start, where you can learn about the city’s rich social and cultural history. Alternatively, you could check out the National Gallery of Victoria, which houses Australia’s most extensive permanent international and local artwork collection.
A Tourist's Guide to Melbourne
First and foremost, Melbourne is a city of culture and art. Spend a day wandering the laneways and admiring the street art in Hosier Lane and Caledonian Lane. For a more traditional art experience, head to the National Gallery of Victoria or the Ian Potter Centre for Australian Art.
Next on the must-see list is the iconic Flinders Street Station. This striking yellow and green building is an important transportation hub and an excellent spot for people-watching and enjoying the city’s energy.
While in the city’s heart, take advantage of the shopping and dining options. Centre Place and Degraves Street offer a variety of eateries and trendy cafes, while Bourke Street Mall is home to major fashion retailers.
For those who love to wander, stroll along the picturesque Southbank Promenade. With views of the Yarra River, the Melbourne skyline, and numerous restaurants and bars, it’s a great way to spend an afternoon or evening.
If you’re interested in the city’s history, head to the Old Melbourne Gaol, where famous bushranger Ned Kelly was executed, or the Melbourne Museum, which tells the story of Melbourne’s Aboriginal and colonial past.
Every trip to Melbourne is complete with a visit to the Queen Victoria Market. This historic marketplace has been around for over a century and offers everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Finally, if you have time for a day trip, head to the stunning Great Ocean Road. This scenic drive offers breathtaking coast views and famous landmarks like the Twelve Apostles.
With so much to see and do, this tourist guide to Melbourne will have you falling in love with the city’s vibrant culture and unique charm.
Hosier Lane
Located in the heart of Melbourne’s central business district, Hosier Lane is a must-see attraction for locals and visitors alike. Known for its vibrant and ever-changing street art, Hosier Lane is an outdoor gallery that showcases the artistic talent of Melbourne’s creative community.
The walls of Hosier Lane are adorned with vibrant murals, graffiti, and stencils that reflect the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Both renowned and up-and-coming artists create the artworks found here, and the best part is that they’re free for anyone to view.
In addition to the stunning artwork, Hosier Lane is a great spot to take photos or capture moments for your social media accounts. With so much colour and creativity, it’s hard not to snap a few pictures while you’re wandering around the alleyways.
The lane is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, making it the perfect location for a quick bite or to sit and relax while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
If you want to learn more about Melbourne’s street art scene, you can join a guided tour through Hosier Lane and other nearby laneways.
Overall, Hosier Lane is a must-see attraction that encapsulates Melbourne’s artistic and creative spirit. A vibrant hub of culture and expression, it provides a unique and memorable experience for anyone who visits.
Acland Street
Acland Street is one of the city’s most vibrant and bustling neighbourhoods in the heart of St Kilda. The street is famous for its eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists.
One of the highlights of Acland Street is undoubtedly its vibrant food scene, which features everything from traditional Australian cuisine to international flavours. Some must-visit spots include the iconic cake shops that line the street, where you can indulge in delicious sweets and pastries.
Apart from food, Acland Street is also home to a range of fashion boutiques, gift shops, and specialty stores, providing an extensive retail therapy experience. You will also find a variety of street performers and musicians showcasing their talents throughout the day, adding to the lively atmosphere.
City Circle Tram
The City Circle Tram is undoubtedly one of Melbourne’s most popular and recognisable attractions, providing locals and tourists with an easy and enjoyable way to explore the city’s top sights. This iconic tram service operates on a circular route that takes passengers around the city’s central business district, highlighting some of the area’s most famous landmarks and attractions.
The service operates every day of the week, with trams running in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions, allowing visitors to hop on and off at their leisure. The free service makes it an excellent choice for those exploring the city on a budget.
One of the City Circle Tram highlights is the onboard commentary, which provides passengers with an informative and engaging overview of each sight along the route. From the iconic Flinders Street Station and Flinders Street to the historic Parliament House and regal Princess Theatre, the tram tour offers visitors an immersive and fascinating look at Melbourne’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Melbourne Town Hall Tours
The Melbourne Town Hall tours are a must-do if you’re a history buff with a penchant for stunning architecture. This iconic building dates back to the late 1800s and boasts an intricate facade that will impress.
The Melbourne Town Hall is still in active use as the administrative Centre for the City of Melbourne, but guided tours are available for those who want to delve deeper into its history. These tours offer a peek behind the scenes, taking visitors through majestic halls and hidden nooks that are usually off-limits to the public.
One of the most impressive features of the Melbourne Town Hall is the Grand Organ, considered to be one of the largest and most impressive of its kind in the world. During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to step onto the stage and view the mechanics of the organ up close.
The tour also includes visiting the Main Hall, a soaring space accommodating up to 2000 people. The hall is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate mosaic floors that add to its grandeur.
Other tour highlights include the stunning portico entrance, a beautiful clock tower and intricate carvings, and the Council Chamber, where the city’s governing council meets.
Queen Victoria Market
We are looking for a vibrant and bustling place to spend your day in Melbourne. Look no further than the Queen Victoria Market. Located in the heart of Melbourne’s city centre, this market is a hub of activity and a true Melbourne icon.
This sprawling market is over 140 years old and is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a foodie’s paradise, offering visitors a chance to experience the best of Melbourne’s fresh produce and gourmet food. With over 600 traders selling everything from meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and locally sourced honey and eggs, to artisanal chocolates, pastries, and specialty teas, the market is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Not just limited to culinary treats, the market also offers plenty of opportunities for shopping. Visitors can browse a wide range of clothing, jewellery, and crafts local artisans make. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or exciting gifts, the market has something for everyone.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Queen Victoria Market is the night market, which takes place during the summer months. The night market features live music, performances, and delicious street food worldwide. It’s a great place to grab a bite and socialise with locals and visitors.
For those seeking to learn more about the history of the market and Melbourne itself, guided tours are available. The terms cover everything from the market’s founding in the late 1800s to modern-day business practices.
Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia
To experience some of the finest Australian art and culture, look no further than the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia. Located within the National Gallery of Victoria in Federation Square, the Ian Potter Centre is dedicated to showcasing Australia’s rich and diverse art history.
The Centre features an impressive collection of over 20,000 Australian works of art. The collection includes everything from the early colonial period to contemporary art and everything in between. You can see results from the likes of Sidney Nolan, John Brack, and Arthur Boyd, as well as sculpture, photography, and multimedia pieces.
One of the highlights of the Ian Potter Centre is the Australian Indigenous Art collection. This collection is one of the most significant in the world and showcases artwork by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. The collection includes traditional pieces such as bark paintings, carvings, weavings and contemporary works in various mediums.
The Ian Potter Centre also offers a range of educational opportunities and programs for visitors of all ages. You can participate in a guided tour, workshop, lecture, or live music or performance event.
Explore the Yarra River on foot
The Yarra River runs through the heart of Melbourne and offers stunning views of the city’s skyline. Start your journey from Southbank, where you can take in the beautiful architecture of some of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings, such as the Eureka Tower and the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. From there, follow the river upstream, enjoying the lush greenery and tranquil surroundings.
As you go along the river, you’ll come across various attractions. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens and marvel at the stunning collection of indigenous and exotic plant species worldwide. Or stroll in the Birrarung Marr, a popular family-friendly park on the river’s north bank.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddle boat and explore the river independently. Or join one of the many guided tours available along the way and learn about the river’s rich history and significance to the locals. You can also stop by some riverside cafes and bars and grab a drink while enjoying the scenery.
You’ll arrive at the historic Flinders Street Station towards the end of your walk. Take a few moments to appreciate the impressive architecture of this iconic building before crossing the pedestrian bridge to the Southbank side of the river. You can stop by one of the many restaurants and bars for a meal or simply sit back and watch the world go by.
Parliament House
Visitors to Parliament House can take a free guided tour of the building, which gives them an inside look at the government’s workings and the state’s history. The times are led by knowledgeable guides who provide fascinating insights into the history and architecture of the building, as well as the political system in Victoria.
One of the tour’s highlights is the Legislative Assembly Chamber, where the members of parliament gather to debate and pass laws. Visitors can sit in the public gallery and watch politicians do their business, which is a unique and fascinating experience.
Another highlight of the tour is the Queen’s Hall, the main entryway to the building. The hall is decorated with beautiful stained glass windows and ornate carvings, providing a lovely welcome to visitors.
Visitors to Parliament House can also explore the extensive art collection displayed throughout the building. The exhibition features works by some of Australia’s most famous artists, providing a fascinating glimpse into the state’s artistic heritage.
In addition to the free guided tours, Parliament House hosts various special events and exhibitions throughout the year. These events include debates, lectures, and cultural events, which are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of Victoria.
State Library Victoria
Visitors to the library can take a free guided tour or explore the many exhibitions on display throughout the building. The library also hosts various events, from book launches to author talks and workshops, making it a vibrant hub for literary and cultural activities.
One of the most popular features of the State Library Victoria is the iconic dome, which stands 35 meters high. The crown, completed in 1913, is made of glass and steel and provides visitors with breathtaking views of the city from its viewing platform.
Another must-see attraction in the library is the La Trobe Reading Room, one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. The Reading Room is home to a collection of rare books and manuscripts, and its exquisitely designed interior provides an ideal environment for quiet study or contemplation.
For those interested in history, the State Library Victoria also offers a range of online resources and databases, which provide access to an extensive collection of digitised historical documents and photographs. These resources allow visitors to explore Melbourne’s fascinating history and gain insights into the city’s development over the years.
St Kilda Penguins
The penguins are easy to spot, especially if you visit at dusk when they come ashore to their nests. Remember that they are wild animals, so respecting their space and observing from a distance is essential. The St Kilda Breakwater has a viewing platform perfect for watching the penguins without disturbing them.
While the St Kilda Penguins are a popular tourist attraction, it’s important to remember that they are a protected species. Strict rules are in place to ensure their safety, so it’s essential to follow them during your visit. These rules include not touching or feeding the penguins, keeping a distance of at least three meters from them, and not using flash photography.
For those interested in learning more about the St Kilda Penguins, guided tours provide a wealth of information about these fascinating creatures. The times are led by knowledgeable guides who can answer questions about the penguins and their behaviour.
Melbourne's churches
One of Melbourne’s most notable churches is St. Paul’s Cathedral, located in the city’s heart. Completed in 1891, the Gothic Revival-style church is an impressive example of Victorian architecture. Visitors can admire the intricate stone carvings, stained glass windows, and soaring spires contributing to the cathedral’s grandeur. Regular services, concerts, and events are held at St. Paul’s throughout the year, making it a vibrant hub for the community.
Another iconic church in Melbourne is the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, located in East Melbourne. This grand cathedral was completed in 1937 and featured a mix of Gothic and Renaissance Revival styles. Visitors can admire the impressive spires, towering stained glass windows, and ornate carvings adorn the cathedral’s interior. The cathedral is illuminated at night, creating a stunning display that can be seen from afar.
For those interested in exploring churches outside the city centre, there are several beautiful examples in Melbourne’s suburbs. The St. Kilda’s Anglican Church, located in the trendy beachside suburb of St. Kilda, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Built in 1855, the church is notable for its ornate stonework and gorgeous stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.
The Holy Trinity Church in Kew is another impressive example of church architecture in Melbourne. The Neo-Gothic-style building was constructed in the late 19th century and features intricately carved stone and stunning stained glass windows. The church’s location on top of a hill also offers visitors panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Founded in 1846, the Royal Botanic Gardens has long been a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike. The gardens are home to over 8,500 plant species worldwide, focusing heavily on Australian native species. As you wander the gardens, you’ll discover everything from towering eucalyptus trees to delicate flowers and succulents.
One of the garden’s highlights is the stunning Ornamental Lake, home to various water birds, including swans, ducks, and pelicans. You can stroll around the lake on one of the winding walking tracks or sit back and relax on a bench while enjoying the beautiful views.
The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden will surely be a hit for those visiting with children. The garden is designed specifically for kids, with interactive exhibits, sensory experiences, and plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning. Kids can dig in the mud pit, climb the lookout tower, or explore the plant tunnels, all while learning about the importance of plants and nature.
The Royal Botanic Gardens also host various events and exhibitions throughout the year, ranging from guided plant walks to art installations and outdoor concerts. These events provide a unique opportunity to experience the gardens in a new and exciting way and are not to be missed.