Travelling around Melbourne can be incredibly expensive. One can easily spend $100 in a day. Eating out, alcohol, housing, getting from place to place all come at a hefty price. However, exploring Melbourne doesn't need to break the bank! Melbourne has heaps of incredible free activities everyone will enjoy!
City Circle Trams
Within the CBD, all trams travel is free, however, not all the tram lines are created equal. If you're just worried about getting from point A to point B, take whatever tram you'd like. If you're wanting to hear all about Melbourne and the awesome attractions in the CBD, take the city circle tram.
You cannot miss these heritage class maroon and gold trams circling the city. Once you hop on board you'll be treated to an audio tour of Melbourne. The tram highlights the city's landmarks and major attractions such as Parliment House, Melbourne Aquarium, Federation Square, and more!
Street Art
Unlike in a majority of the US, street art is completely legal here in Australia. Take a walk down the many laneways and you'll find stunning artwork. Hosier Lane is one of the most popular graffiti laneways in Melbourne. The artwork changes frequently so each time you visit, you'll be treated to new art!
Botanical Gardens
Melbourne has beautiful parks all over the city. Whoever planned the city, did a fantastic job! Even within the CBD, there are gorgeous gardens but the most breathtaking of the gardens is the Botanical Gardens. Certain portions of the gardens give you incredible views of the Melbourne skyline.
Each portion of the garden has beautiful plants from around the world. There's a section that will transport you back to your childhood called Fern Gully. If you're a Californian missing home, there's also a section dedicated to the flora found in Cali. Once you've finished exploring the gardens, take a quick walk over to the Shrine of Remembrance. You will not be disappointed!
City Walking Tours
Discover everything Melbourne has to offer with a free 3-hour walking tour of the CBD. If you're a little unorganised with your trip, no need to worry. You do not need to book in advance, just show up!
Tours depart every day at 10:30 and 2:30. Greet your tour guide in front of the Sir Redmond Berry statue at the State Library Victoria. They'll be in a green fluoro vest so you can't miss them!
Museum at the State Library Victoria
Before beginning your walking tour, head into the State Library and explore this incredible building. I frequently do my school work in this library because of how stunning it is. If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of students trying to get uni work done, take the lift to the top floor. There you can guide yourself through the various alternating exhibitions on display.
Wanting a more personal touch? State Library Victoria offers free Ned Kelly Tours on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Decide for yourself if this infamous man was a hero or villain. Other free tours of the exhibitions run daily.
Australian Centre for Moving Images (ACMI)
It's rare you'll find a museum with free entry all day, every day. Melbourne's ACMI is a free museum that is fun for all ages. While there are some ticketed exhibits, on the first Sunday of every month, families can explore ticketed exhibits for free!
ACMI is filled with film clips, displays, and interactive games. It's sure to entertain even those with the shortest of attention spans. ACMI is open from 10 am to 5 pm daily and is located in Federation Square opposite Flinders Street Station.
Capital City Trail
If you're in Melbourne longer than a weekend, the Capital City Trail is a must! Should the weather break 30, be sure to bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen. This 30km round trip trail is great to walk or cycle.
There are plenty of cafes, drinking fountains, and toilets along the route. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it along the riverfront. If you're keen to keep going, try one of the pathways around Docklands. You'll be blessed with more waterfront views and the gorgeous city skyline.
Queen Victoria Markets
This historic landmark is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Wander up and down the various stalls to find the awesome souvenirs, trinkets and food. If you're on a tight budget, you can just window shop. It's absolutely free!
If you're looking for a low-cost lunch, head to the food court or the fresh markets. There you'll be able to get a meal for fairly cheap. Plus the fresh produce is incredible! Just be sure to avoid the markest on Monday and Wednesday because they're closed. Queen Victoria Markets open a night market on Wednesday nights during winter. The late night shopping and mulled wine definitely make the cold bearable.
Kodak Track Memorial Walk
Looking to get out of the city for the day but can only travel by public transport? Treat yourself to a day out in the Dandenong's and hike 1,000 Steps. The memorial track allows you to gain a small insight into the physical efforts experienced by ANZAC soldiers during WWII.
Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, pack plenty of water, and enjoy the sights. Even if it's pouring down rain, this hike is breathtaking. You'll be completely encompassed by the massive fern trees and privy to the unique sounds of the lyrebird.
Exploring Melbourne doesn't need to leave you bankrupt by the end of your holiday. Whether you're here for the weekend or a few weeks, these 9 activities will definitely make your trip memorable and enjoyable. If you've ever travelled to Melbourne before, did you try any of these activities? Would you recommend them?
City Circle Trams
Within the CBD, all trams travel is free, however, not all the tram lines are created equal. If you're just worried about getting from point A to point B, take whatever tram you'd like. If you're wanting to hear all about Melbourne and the awesome attractions in the CBD, take the city circle tram.
You cannot miss these heritage class maroon and gold trams circling the city. Once you hop on board you'll be treated to an audio tour of Melbourne. The tram highlights the city's landmarks and major attractions such as Parliment House, Melbourne Aquarium, Federation Square, and more!
Street Art
Unlike in a majority of the US, street art is completely legal here in Australia. Take a walk down the many laneways and you'll find stunning artwork. Hosier Lane is one of the most popular graffiti laneways in Melbourne. The artwork changes frequently so each time you visit, you'll be treated to new art!
Botanical Gardens
Melbourne has beautiful parks all over the city. Whoever planned the city, did a fantastic job! Even within the CBD, there are gorgeous gardens but the most breathtaking of the gardens is the Botanical Gardens. Certain portions of the gardens give you incredible views of the Melbourne skyline.
Each portion of the garden has beautiful plants from around the world. There's a section that will transport you back to your childhood called Fern Gully. If you're a Californian missing home, there's also a section dedicated to the flora found in Cali. Once you've finished exploring the gardens, take a quick walk over to the Shrine of Remembrance. You will not be disappointed!
City Walking Tours
Discover everything Melbourne has to offer with a free 3-hour walking tour of the CBD. If you're a little unorganised with your trip, no need to worry. You do not need to book in advance, just show up!
Tours depart every day at 10:30 and 2:30. Greet your tour guide in front of the Sir Redmond Berry statue at the State Library Victoria. They'll be in a green fluoro vest so you can't miss them!
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Before beginning your walking tour, head into the State Library and explore this incredible building. I frequently do my school work in this library because of how stunning it is. If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of students trying to get uni work done, take the lift to the top floor. There you can guide yourself through the various alternating exhibitions on display.
Wanting a more personal touch? State Library Victoria offers free Ned Kelly Tours on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Decide for yourself if this infamous man was a hero or villain. Other free tours of the exhibitions run daily.
Australian Centre for Moving Images (ACMI)
It's rare you'll find a museum with free entry all day, every day. Melbourne's ACMI is a free museum that is fun for all ages. While there are some ticketed exhibits, on the first Sunday of every month, families can explore ticketed exhibits for free!
ACMI is filled with film clips, displays, and interactive games. It's sure to entertain even those with the shortest of attention spans. ACMI is open from 10 am to 5 pm daily and is located in Federation Square opposite Flinders Street Station.
Capital City Trail
If you're in Melbourne longer than a weekend, the Capital City Trail is a must! Should the weather break 30, be sure to bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen. This 30km round trip trail is great to walk or cycle.
There are plenty of cafes, drinking fountains, and toilets along the route. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it along the riverfront. If you're keen to keep going, try one of the pathways around Docklands. You'll be blessed with more waterfront views and the gorgeous city skyline.
Queen Victoria Markets
This historic landmark is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Wander up and down the various stalls to find the awesome souvenirs, trinkets and food. If you're on a tight budget, you can just window shop. It's absolutely free!
If you're looking for a low-cost lunch, head to the food court or the fresh markets. There you'll be able to get a meal for fairly cheap. Plus the fresh produce is incredible! Just be sure to avoid the markest on Monday and Wednesday because they're closed. Queen Victoria Markets open a night market on Wednesday nights during winter. The late night shopping and mulled wine definitely make the cold bearable.
Kodak Track Memorial Walk
Looking to get out of the city for the day but can only travel by public transport? Treat yourself to a day out in the Dandenong's and hike 1,000 Steps. The memorial track allows you to gain a small insight into the physical efforts experienced by ANZAC soldiers during WWII.
Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, pack plenty of water, and enjoy the sights. Even if it's pouring down rain, this hike is breathtaking. You'll be completely encompassed by the massive fern trees and privy to the unique sounds of the lyrebird.
Exploring Melbourne doesn't need to leave you bankrupt by the end of your holiday. Whether you're here for the weekend or a few weeks, these 9 activities will definitely make your trip memorable and enjoyable. If you've ever travelled to Melbourne before, did you try any of these activities? Would you recommend them?
And until next time...
Stay curious!
I need to save this post for myself as we are going to start travelling with the kids soon so I can use your tips then. Thank you so much for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI've read a lot about the murals in Melbourne. Would love to see them in person
ReplyDeleteI love when museums are free! I would love to see the botanical gardens here because I'm sure it's not only beautiful, but full of plants I've never seen as a North American!
ReplyDeleteThe botanical garden looks amazing. I would love to see the murals! Looks like an amazing place.
ReplyDeleteI would love to visit Melbourne - free city walks and the botanical gardens would be top of my list I think! great post.
ReplyDeleteAs a family of six finding free activities is important! I would love to visit Melbourne sometime and when I do these stops would be on the top of the list.
ReplyDeleteThese are very cool activities, I will have to remember these if I get a chance to visit Australia, thanks for sharing!
ReplyDelete~xo Sheree
poshclassymom.com
If we ever make it to Melbourne, I will keep these things in mind. My husband loves history so he would like the Kodak Track Memorial Walk. I would love the museum at the library and botanical gardens.
ReplyDeleteAll of these activities look like they are so much fun. I will definitely keep them in mind if I ever visit Australia.
ReplyDeleteI am yet to set my foot in Australia and Melbourne is definitely gonna be on the list. All these free activities recommendations are amazing.
ReplyDelete