10 Tourist Spots You Must Visit In Melbourne

Melbourne, a stunning city on Australia's southern coast, serves as the capital of Victoria. Recognized as the world's most liveable city for six consecutive years by the Economist Intelligence Unit, Melbourne is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural richness. The city boasts a wide array of attractions, including wildlife parks, museums, historical sites, and aquariums, making it a magnet for tourists from around the globe. To simplify your trip planning, we've compiled a list of some of the most admired places to visit in Melbourne.

# Royal Botanic Garden

The Royal Botanic Garden in Melbourne, located in South Yarra, is one of the world's most beautifully designed botanical gardens. Spanning 38 hectares, it features over 50,000 plants, including 10,000 species of native and non-native flora. This garden is a prime example of Victorian landscape art and is adorned with various monuments and pillars. Major attractions within the garden include Guilfoyle’s Volcano, Ornamental Lake, the Melbourne Observatory, and the National Herbarium, making it a must-visit spot in Melbourne.

# Docklands

Docklands, a waterfront suburb in Melbourne, is a major attraction that promises a fun-filled day for families and friends. With a plethora of activities such as theatre shows, shopping, dining, entertainment, wellness treatments, and musical events, Docklands offers something for everyone. It's an ideal place to relax and enjoy Melbourne's beautiful landscapes.

# Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley, one of Melbourne's premier destinations, is renowned for its natural beauty, including high deserts, ocean fronts, and lush vineyards. This world-famous region, home to about 50 wineries and microbreweries, is perfect for wine enthusiasts and wildlife watchers. The valley also features dense forests inhabited by koalas, wombats, lyrebirds, and kangaroos. Visitors can enjoy trekking and explore charming villages like Warburton and Marysville, offering a close encounter with Australia's unique fauna.

# Shrine of Remembrance

The Shrine of Remembrance, one of Australia's largest war memorials, is a prominent Melbourne landmark located in the Kings Domain garden. Built in a neo-classical design inspired by the Parthenon of Athens and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, it commemorates Australian soldiers who served in wars. Since its inauguration in 1934, the Shrine has undergone several refurbishments. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Melbourne's skyline from the upper balcony.

# Flinders Street Station

Flinders Street Station, Melbourne's oldest railway station, is an emblem of the city's rich history and culture. This iconic station, with its green copper dome, grand façade, and large arched entrance, attracts over 90,000 daily passengers. Notable features include "The Clocks" and "The Steps," making it a significant tourist attraction. The station also houses a ballroom on the third floor, where visitors can enjoy dance performances, adding to the station's charm.

# Melbourne Cricket Ground

The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), located in Yarra Park, is Australia's premier sporting venue and one of the largest cricket stadiums globally, with a capacity of 100,000. The MCG hosts major cricket matches and events and features the Melbourne Cricket Club Library and the inner sanctum, offering insights into Australia's cricket history. It's a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.

# Royal Exhibition Building

The Royal Exhibition Building, Australia's first UNESCO World Heritage-listed building, is a top tourist spot in Melbourne. Built in 1880, its stunning architecture and grand interior make it a favorite for photographers and history buffs. The building hosts numerous exhibitions, trade fairs, and events annually. Surrounded by Carlton Gardens, it is also the venue for fashion shows, gala dinners, and the International Flower and Garden Show.

# Peninsula Hot Springs

Peninsula Hot Springs, a major tourist attraction near Melbourne, offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience just 90 minutes from the city. This award-winning natural hot spring features private baths and pools fed by thermal mineral waters. It's a serene day spa destination with bamboo showers, cold plunge pools, thermal mineral pools, saunas, and more. Visitors can also participate in activities like yoga, body clay treatments, and Pilates.

# SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, located at the corner of King Street and Flinders Street, is one of the best places to visit in Melbourne. This award-winning attraction offers an immersive experience with aquatic animals and Australia's native marine creatures. Visitors can see stingrays, sharks, penguins, seahorses, and tropical fish up close. The aquarium also features Melbourne's only underwater restaurant, providing a unique dining experience.

# St Kilda Beach

St Kilda Beach, located 6 km from Melbourne's city center, is a popular destination with its white sand shorelines and various waterfront activities. The best time to visit is during the summer, where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing. The beach is lined with restaurants, cafes, and food stalls, offering a variety of global cuisines. Nearby attractions include the St Kilda Sea Baths, Sunday Esplanade Market, Palais Theatre, and Luna Park, making it one of Melbourne's most beloved tourist spots.