There is a lot to see and do in Melbourne, but as a tourist, it can always be confusing where to go and discover what’s on offer.
In this post, we’ll make a few suggestions to really take in the sights and atmosphere of this historic and multicultural city.
Take a Tram Around the City
Melbourne has hundreds of trams travelling to destinations all around the city, but there are some specialised trams that take tourists on city tours so you can see and learn more about the area.
An MC will keep you well informed during the course of the circuit around Melbourne CBD, taking in the city skyline, historical landmarks, the Yarra River, as well as learning more about places you can later explore for yourself.
If you’ve just arrived in Melbourne, then a tram tour like this can really help you get more familiar with your surroundings.
The Royal Botanic Gardens
Just a stone’s throw from the city proper is the Royal Botanic Gardens. It’s like a world away from the hustle of the city, yet it’s located right in the heart of Melbourne.
Thousands of acres of grassland, stunning flower gardens, forest walks, lakes and even areas of entertainment await visitors to one of the biggest parks in the entire country.
You could literally spend a whole day wandering the gardens, there is so much to see and explore, and it’s a fantastic way to wind down a little while on your holiday in Victoria’s capital.
A Day At the Races
This might sound like a rather unusual and not so common way to sightsee, but Melbourne’s most iconic race track – Flemington Racecourse – is truly a place of picturesque beauty with all its wonderful flower gardens.
Virtually any weekend you can spend a day at the races, but the very best time to be trackside is on the first Tuesday come November when you can watch the Melbourne Cup horses battle it out for glory in one of the world’s most famous thoroughbred horse races.
Everyone in Australia stops what they are doing to watch the race live on TV, but the best way to experience it, and absorb an integral part of Melbourne’s history, is to be trackside.
Cruise the Yarra River
Why not check out the city of Melbourne from an entirely unique viewpoint – From the water on a riverboat cruise.
Some of the cruises on offer are simply sightseeing cruises, but there are dinner cruises and cruises with a party vibe at night as well.
Pass beneath the iconic footbridge that links Southgate to the Melbourne CBD and Flinder’s Street Station. Take in the city skyline as you cruise on slowly by. There is also nature and river wildlife to enjoy along your journey.
A daytime river cruise is a very relaxing way to take in some of the sights of the area, so well worth considering when in Melbourne.
Experience Melbourne City from Above
The Eureka Tower Skydeck 88 will offer visitors a truly bird’s eye view of Melbourne’s cityscape. It’s located on level 88 of the Eureka Tower in the heart of the city and there are 2 high-speed elevators that get visitors up and down in as little as 40 seconds.
Once upon the Skydeck you’ll be totally amazed by the view. You can check out the city by day or by night, whatever you prefer. It’s not free (you need to buy a ticket) but it’s well worth it.
There is even a glass bottom platform you can walk out on that will really take your breath away.
Step Back Into History At the Melbourne Museum
There is so much to see and do at the Melbourne Museum that you could literally make a whole day of the experience. It’s located just north of the CBD in stunning Carlton Gardens, so it’s like a museum located within a park.
Visitors will be amazed at some of these world-class exhibits. Many feature items from the local area, while other exhibits come from all corners of the globe.
If you enjoy learning a bit more about the history and want a unique experience, you’re sure to find it at the Melbourne Museum.
By Laura Graham
Founder & Writer
awineanddine.com.au