Best Melbourne Staycations
Find Your Melbourne Getaway Today
Renowned for its café culture, arts scene, and eclectic laneways, Melbourne effortlessly mixes creativity and sophistication. From hidden street art to lively waterfronts and lush parklands, this city is brimming with possibilities for a local getaway. Here’s how to dive into Melbourne’s charm without leaving town.
Melbourne Staycations Available Now
Your Melbourne Staycation Guide
Top Walkable Activities
Federation Square & Flinders Street Station:
Start at Federation Square, a cultural hotspot opposite the iconic Flinders Street Station, for art events, free exhibitions, and people-watching.
Laneways & Street Art:
Wander down Hosier Lane and Degraves Street for vibrant murals, artisan coffee spots, and hidden boutiques.
Southbank Promenade:
Stroll along the Yarra River past NGV International and the Arts Centre, stopping at riverside cafés and bars for city skyline views.
Royal Botanic Gardens:
A short walk from the CBD, these beautiful gardens offer seasonal displays, lakeside paths, and the chance to do a Punting on the Lake tour.
Queen Victoria Market:
Explore QVM for fresh produce, specialty stalls, and weekend night markets with live music and street eats.
Quick Excursions Under 45 Minutes
St Kilda Beach:
Catch a tram to St Kilda for sandy shores, Luna Park amusements, and a classic beach-town vibe.
Brighton Beach & Bathing Boxes:
Drive or train down to Brighton Beach to see the colorful, iconic beach boxes.
Williamstown:
A historic maritime suburb with scenic waterfront views, cafés, and an easy ferry ride back to Southbank.
Werribee Park & Zoo:
Werribee Open Range Zoo offers an African safari experience, and Werribee Park Mansion boasts splendid gardens.
1-Day Staycation Itinerary
Morning Coffee:
Start with a flat white at a local favourite like Market Lane Coffee, then stroll through laneways around Degraves Street.
Late Morning:
Visit NGV International on St Kilda Road for world-class art, or cross the river to Federation Square for ACMI’s film exhibits.
Afternoon:
Explore Queen Victoria Market for lunch – grab a bratwurst, paella, or fresh produce. Wander the stalls and pick up local treats.
Late Afternoon:
Jump on a tram to St Kilda for a beach stroll or a photo with Luna Park’s iconic entrance, then enjoy a gelato by the pier.
Evening:
Head back to the city for dinner on Flinders Lane or in Chinatown. Wrap up with a cocktail at a speakeasy like Eau de Vie.
2-Day Staycation Itinerary
Day 1: Culture + City Pulse
Morning:
Grab coffee in Fitzroy at Proud Mary, then browse boutique shops and street art in the backstreets of Gertrude and Brunswick Streets.
Afternoon:
Ride a tram into the city. Explore the Arcades & Laneways including Block Arcade and Royal Arcade.
Evening:
Dine at a hidden laneway restaurant or a modern Aussie spot like Chin Chin. Catch a show at Arts Centre Melbourne or wander Southbank’s lit-up promenade.
Day 2: Neighbourhoods + Nature
Morning:
Take a train to Fitzroy or Collingwood for brunch in a converted warehouse café. Sample artisanal pastries or cold-drip coffee.
Afternoon:
Head to the South Melbourne Market for a famous dim sim or shop for local produce. Alternatively, relax in the Royal Botanic Gardens with a picnic.
Evening:
If you’re up for sports, catch a game at the MCG or head to Docklands for a sunset stroll and dinner near the water.
Best Neighborhoods
CBD & Laneways:
Vibrant alleys, hidden bars, and street art off Flinders Lane and Degraves Street.
Fitzroy & Collingwood:
Quirky boutiques, indie music venues, and a thriving brunch culture.
St Kilda:
Seaside suburb with Luna Park, esplanade walks, and beach cafés.
South Yarra & Prahran:
Chapel Street’s trendy shopping, weekend markets, and stylish bars.
Richmond:
Sports fan central near the MCG, plus multicultural dining along Victoria Street.
Where To Visit & Dine
National Gallery of Victoria:
Australia’s oldest public art museum, offering free exhibitions and striking architecture. NGV
Melbourne Zoo:
Family-friendly wildlife encounters just north of the city. Zoo
Chin Chin:
Iconic modern Asian eatery in the CBD. Chin Chin
LUNE Croissanterie:
Known for world-famous croissants and pastries. LUNE
Crown Entertainment Complex:
Riverside views, casinos, and upscale dining. Crown
Insider Tips
Free Tram Zone:
Melbourne’s CBD trams are free within the city centre – hop on and off at will.
Coffee Culture:
Melbourne’s known for its specialty coffee scene. Try a flat white at Proud Mary or Market Lane Coffee for the city’s best brews.
Hidden Bars & Rooftops:
Seek out laneway entrances for speakeasy-style bars or head to Rooftop Bar for skyline views.
Night Markets:
The Queen Victoria Night Market runs seasonally, offering street eats, music, and a bustling atmosphere.
Art & Festivals:
Keep an eye on What’s On Melbourne for events like White Night, the Comedy Festival, or cultural showcases year-round.
