Top 10 things to do in Melbourne

This article first appeared on Skyscanner’s Top 10 things to do in Melbourne

In the world's most liveable city and at a loss for what to do? Skyscanner presents the top 10 Melbourne attractions to guarantee a fun-filled time in this fine Australian city.

Melbourne weather gets a lot of flak from its neighbouring states, but with a to-do list spanning everything from the famous Phillip Island to a booming coffee culture, there's no shortage of sights and sounds to satisfy the urban traveller.

What to do in Melbourne?

1. Hot air balloon over the city

When dawn breaks and the city wakes, what better way to view this glittering Australian metropolis than from above?

Take a hot air balloon ride and drift above the beautiful Melbourne skyline, watching as the city comes to life - a rare opportunity not found in many urban areas around the world. Get up early before sunrise for an experience you won't forget.

2. Drive along the Great Ocean Road

One of Australia's greatest natural treasures is Victoria's Great Ocean Road, a 243 km stretch of road that hugs a beautiful and scenic coast.

The road wraps along looming cliffs, waterfalls, gleaming beaches, the famous 12 Apostles, national parks, and an ocean that stretches as far as the eye can sea.

Embark on your road trip adventure, starting right at the beginning of the route in Melbourne and keep your camera at the ready for the breathtaking sights you'll definitely encounter along the way.

3. Attend a game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground

A visit to Melbourne isn't complete without catching a game at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The stadium at Yarra Park has been standing since the 1800s and is home to the Victoria Bushrangers.

Catch cricket (or footy) fever as you mingle with the local fans and chant along with the crowd. After the game, go for a guided tour of the MCG and visit the Olympic Museum and the Australian Gallery of Sport housed within the stadium itself.

4. Go to Phillip Island

Had too much of the city? Then head for Phillip Island, a quaint island located just 90 minutes off the coast of Melbourne for a day of relaxing fun in the sun.

Grab a surfboard, make a beeline for the island's spectacular beaches, and ride the protected swells of this National Surfing Reserve. If you prefer something less extreme, go swimming and explore hidden coves, rent a kayak, or enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the charming seaside villages.

End the day by catching the Penguin Parade at dusk, where wild penguins waddle back from the sea to their burrows after a day of fishing.

What to see in Melbourne?

5. The Queen Victoria Market

The historic Queen Victoria Market is the largest open-air market down in the Southern Hemisphere and has been open since the 1800's. The market is geographically and culturally at the heart of Melbourne and it beats along with the rhythm of the city.

It's hard to resist the energy and excitement of this buzzing bazaar, full of shops selling delicious food, handmade crafts, fresh produce, and even clothes.

There is no better place to go in Melbourne to experience this vibrant city, grab some souvenirs, and fill up on cheap food before heading out on the town!

6. The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

The Royal Botanic Gardens are an oasis in the midst of busy Melbourne.

Beautifully designed and curated, the serene 94 acres of landscaped trees, vibrant flora, calm lakes, and gorgeous pavilions come together to form a perfect place for picnics or a romantic date.

7. Melbourne Zoo

Travelling with kids in tow? A trip to the world-class Melbourne Zoo is a family-friendly activity that will astound (and tire!) the little ones with over 300 species of winged, loud, furry, and wonderful animals to see.

No kids? No problem! The zoo is still a fun and exciting experience for visitors of all ages.

What to eat in Melbourne?

8. Hamburger with beetroot

You need to try the Aussie burger for a truly authentic Australian experience. A juicy Australian beef patty actually makes a perfect companion to unorthodox beetroot slices.

Nowhere near a barbie? Then just head on over to Fat Bob's Bar and Grill - a quality restaurant beloved by the locals - for a burger and a beer; and make sure to order the Fat Bob!

9. Coffee

Melbourne is the coffee capital of Australia, much like Seattle is in the US. Its distinct and booming coffee culture ranks Melbourne as one of the world's top cities for coffee tourism, and it would be a shame to leave without at least grabbing a cuppa.

But where to go for the best coffee in Melbourne, you ask?

Why not try The League of Honest Coffee, where every bean is carefully sourced and selected from farm to cup, resulting in a quality roast you can taste. If you're still craving for more, you can also check out other cafes such as Seven Seeds, Brother Baba Budan, and 1000 £ Bend.

10. Singaporean food

Craving a taste of home? You're in luck.

Just outside of Melbourne's Central Business District in Collingwood is a great Singaporean eatery called The Old Raffles Place where you can find authentic Singaporean local hawker fare like Fried Carrot Cake, Hainanese Chicken Rice, and even Hokkien Mee!

The cute decor of the place and the familiar flavours are sure to take you back to fond school-day memories of the tuckshop.

If The Old Raffles Place is too out of the way, then try out any one of the Killiney Kopitiams spread out across downtown Melbourne.

The one on Bourke St is closer to the heart of downtown, and not only offers a full breakfast menu of kaya toast staples, but also has an expanded dinner menu that includes mee rebus, chicken rice, and even sambal kangkong.

Ready and raring for your visit to the world's most liveable city, and the art and heart of Australia that is Melbourne? Book cheap flights, hotels and car rental via Skyscanner today, or check out and download our free mobile apps for easy browsing and booking on the go.