I remember the anxiety and excitement that gnawed at me in college, eager for the adventures ahead. I vividly remember the long hours spent researching what to see, what to do, how to get to the main attractions, and where to even begin.
If you are thinking about visiting Melbourne and do not know where to start, this is it. Here is to ease your travel planning by ushering you through the 10 reasons to visit Melbourne, Australia!
Experiencing such weather changes is unique, considering the fact that we do not experience this in Singapore. If it’s your first time visiting Melbourne, it would be wise to bring extra thick clothing out – even in the summer!
I was blown away by the wall graffiti and architecture that embellish Melbourne in a subtle yet noticeable way. The most impactful designs are at St Patrick’s Cathedral near Fitzroy Gardens at East Melbourne, and Flinders Street Station.
Address: Flinders Street Station Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia
The Conservatory at Fitzroy Gardens is free to enter for all who are intrigued by horticulture or who just want to admire floral beauty.
Address:Fitzroy Gardens East Melbourne VIC 3002 Australia
Address:Westgate Park Todd Road Port Melbourne VIC 3207 Australia
About a half hour’s drive from Melbourne’s city centre, Werribee Open Range Zoo, is quite an unique experience. An African safari themed zoo, this place allows the animals to roam freely, as they would in their natural habitat. An Off Road Safari tour gives you an African savanna experience that brings Africa so much closer to you!
The Lion Encounter is a special guided tour option that brings you to the off-limits area where the keepers feed and care for the lions. A closer interaction with the King of the Jungle, with commentary by the keepersm, makes for an educational wildlife experience all in one.
Be sure to catch the animals in action during the stipulated showtimes as well. You will be awed by the Serval Cat presentation as the animal leaps and hunts right before your eyes.
Address: Werribee Open Range Zoo K Road Werribee South VIC 3030 Australia
Home of Victorian wine, the Yarra Valley is where wine growing started. With indulgence in good food, accompanied with wine and the inspiring view that surrounds it, the journey here has all the ingredients to be a road trip to remember. With loads of luxury cafes and restaurants to choose from, this place is worth a visit, even if you’re alone.
Yarra Valley is not just well-known for its wine – the valley also offers pristine regions with nature walks and villages to explore, as well as art galleries and markets! A day of enriching and pampering sounds like the plan to take on a getaway.
Address: Yarra ValleyVictoriaAustralia
The iconic bathing boxes in Brighton are so brightly coloured, it is definitely a must visit during the Summer!The pop of colours totally blends in with the vibrancy of the season. Thanks to their distinctive decorations, these colorful bathing boxes make the Brighton seaside a popular iconic destination for tourists and locals.
A great lazy day to spend by the beach, enjoying the sun, the sand, and the cute beach bathing boxes as the backdrop. Ahh, the life.
Address: Dendy Street Beach Victoria Australia
Imagine coming up close with the wild penguins and seeing them in their natural habitat without glass windows impeding your peripheral version – it is an experience not to be missed!
Philip Island also has other activities to offer other than penguin watching at dusk. With a drive to the western end of the island, The Nobbies is also a great and splendid area to see seal colonies. If you are not into wildlife, there are tons of nature walking and cycling trails available. For an adrenaline rush, the Philip Island Grand Prix Circuit is wonderful for the whole family too!
Definitely include this humble island as part of your itinerary. You won’t regret it!
Address: Phillip Island Victoria Australia
Be inspired by the fresh air and get active in the national park with a wide range of adventures to pick from! Be it trekking, fishing, canoeing or even rock climbing, these activities can cater to everyone with different level of fitness. A casual stroll or an overnight trek, it is your own calling! So get geared up for a good walk and be greeted with magnificent panorama views at the lookouts. The views are definitely worth your sweat.
Address: Grampians National Park Victoria Australia
Address: Great Ocean RdVictoriaAustralia
Address: Federation Square Corner Swanston St & Flinders St Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia
Hope you are as inspired as I was back when I was doing my research. Melbourne is indeed the destination to be for a getaway Down Under.
Until next time!
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