Beautiful beaches and stunning cities are integral parts of any trip to Australia, and you’ll find both of these elements and more when you travel to Melbourne. The center of the city consists of Federation Square, a plaza that’s full of bars and restaurants. The Southbank area is home to the Melbourne Arts Precinct, the InterContinental Melbourne luxurious hotel, as well as good food and shopping. Follow this guide to make the most of your three-day trip to Melbourne.
Day 1 in Melbourne
Image via Flickr by Anthony’s Olympus Adventures
Start your day at Flinders Street Railway Station, an iconic hub that dates back to 1909. Next, stroll through the restaurants, museums, and arts venues in Federation Square. Head over Princes Bridge, which joins the north and south banks at one of the oldest river crossings. On the other side, visit Queen Victoria Gardens, where you can spend an hour meandering past ponds, the Queen Victoria monument, and the famous floral clock.
Next, stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens, where you’ll find a variety of Australian plants. Venture over to the Shrine of Remembrance, a beautiful memorial commemorating World War I. Don’t miss the National Gallery of Victoria, a public art gallery that features collections of Australian art and artifacts. End your first day at the Eureka Skydeck 88, a gold-plated observation deck that offers panoramic views of the city from a protruding glass tube.
Day 2 in Melbourne
Image via Flickr by Sheep”R”Us
Start your morning with an hour at the Queen Victoria Market. Spanning two city blocks, the market is a historic landmark where vendors sell food, clothing, and more. Next, stop by the State Library of Victoria, a landmark that dates back to 1856 and consists of 23 classical buildings. From the State Library of Victoria, move to the Old Melbourne Gaol. Although it’s now a museum offering tours, this tri-level jail once housed some of Australia’s most notorious inmates.
Once you escape the Old Melbourne Gaol, head to the Royal Exhibition Building, a 19th-century landmark and exhibition center in the midst of gardens. Finish your day with a few hours at the Melbourne Museum, which contains some of the best prehistoric and regional history exhibits you’ll find anywhere.
Day 3 in Melbourne
In the morning, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, a Gothic Revival structure that features twin spires, stained-glass processional doors, and unique bells. Just five minutes away, stop by Melbourne Town Hall, a stately 19th-century building that serves as the seat of local government. Next, visit the Old Treasury Building, which houses exhibitions, historic documents, and original gold vaults.
After a quick rest, walk through the Treasury Gardens, a tranquil city park that includes several interesting memorials and countless mature trees. End your third day Cooks’ Cottage, a reconstruction of an 18th-century cottage originally built in England by the family of Captain James Cook.
Are you ready to explore Melbourne? Use this guide to ensure that you don’t miss any highlights during your visit to this exciting city.
This is a sponsored post. I have been compensated for publication, however, all opinions are my own.