Many cafes, restaurants, bars and attractions have reopened in Melbourne, Australia in 2023 – so plan your visit now.
Despite extended closures over the past few years due to coronavirus lockdowns – Melbourne is recovering strongly. Many attractions have reopened and are welcoming visitors again. If you are considering a visit, make a note of all these wonderful things you can do. But the list is not exhaustive, this city is known for its endless treasures to discover.
Discover the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne Museum, the National Gallery of Victoria, Eureka Skydeck, Melbourne Cricket Ground and Queen Victoria Market
Here are some of the most popular attractions that are currently open in Melbourne.
Royal Botanical Gardens
One of the most popular attractions that is currently open in Melbourne is the Royal Botanic Gardens. These stunning gardens are located in the heart of the city and boast a wide variety of plant species from around the world. It’s the perfect place to stroll through the gardens, admire the flowers, trees and gardens, and learn about the history and ecology of Melbourne. The gardens are open daily and offer guided tours, as well as self-guided audio tours.
Melbourne Museum
Another popular attraction that is currently open in Melbourne is the Melbourne Museum. It is the largest in the southern hemisphere and offers a wide range of exhibits on the history, culture, and science of Australia. In particular the state of Victoria of which Melbourne is the capital. It’s a great place to learn about Indigenous cultures, explore the world of Australian animals, and discover some unique aspects of this country’s history.
National Gallery of Victoria
If you are interested in art and culture, the National Gallery of Victoria is a must-visit attraction. The gallery is home to an extensive collection of Australian and international art, including works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Monet and Van Gogh.
Eureka Skydeck
Another popular attraction that is currently open in Melbourne is the Eureka Skydeck – an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city. You can travel up to the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower to enjoy the views from the deck. There are also interactive exhibits to discover the history of the city and its landmarks.
Melbourne Cricket Ground
If you have a passion for sports, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is a must-see attraction. The MCG is the largest stadium in Australia and is host to games of Australian football (Australian Football League) and international cricket matches. Even if there are no games on, you can take a tour of the stadium. The tours explain the history and architecture of the MCG, as well as see the dressing rooms and player’s tunnel.
Queen Victoria Market
The Queen Victoria Market is a must-visit destination in Melbourne. This historic under-cover market is one of the oldest in Australia and you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, clothing, and souvenirs for sale. There is also a Night Market on for six months of the year – which features street food-style food stalls.
Melbourne Tours Currently Running
Our Melbourne day tours are back up and running in 2023. They are a great option to spend a day exploring, learning and enjoying your visit to Melbourne. All tours are led by a local guide and you will travel in the comfort of a 24-seater bus with upgraded seating.
Great Ocean Road at Sunset
- Visit the beaches of Victoria’s famous Surf Coast
- Spot wild koalas while strolling in the sweetly-scented eucalyptus forest
- Drive through the Great Otway National Park
- Marvel at the natural beauty of Loch Ard Gorge and hear the famous tale of shipwreck survival
- View two of the Apostles from beach level at Gibsons Steps (time permitting)
- Visit the charming coastal township of Apollo Bay
- Visit the 12 Apostles Lookout for sunset
Phillip Island
- A visit to the famous Brighton Beach boxes
- A guided tour at the award-winning Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park
- Meet and feed a wide range of Australian animals including koalas, wombats, dingoes, and many more
- Visit Point Grant to view the Nobbies and Seal Rock
- Stroll the coastal boardwalks to enjoy amazing panoramic views
- See the penguins waddle up the Phillip Island Penguin Parade at sunset
Yarra Valley
- Taste some of the valley’s freshest fruits, juices, and other local products at Yarra Farm Fresh
- Sample wine and cheese at the iconic Balgownie Estate – one of the great wineries of the Yarra Valley
- Taste the valley’s freshest cheeses at the Yarra Valley Dairy
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at Rochford Wines – choose from four different meal options and enjoy a glass of Rochford’s quality wine
- Sip away at a wine tasting in one of Australia’s great wineries, Yering Station
- Enjoy an exclusive chocolate tasting at the valley’s sweetest location, The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
Grampians National Park
- Take a stroll through shady forests to Silverband Falls
- Time to explore the wildlife and surroundings of Grampians township of Halls Gap
- Take a short hike from the Wonderland Turntable into the spectacular Grand Canyon
- Hike to one of the Grampians most famous sites, MacKenzie Falls
- Enjoy panoramic views from Reeds Lookout and views over the mountain range from Boroka Lookout
- Spot wild animals in their natural habitat
Great Ocean Road
- Enjoy morning tea on the picturesque beaches of Victoria’s Surf Coast
- Scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road
- See the Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell National Park
- Visit the Loch Ard Gorge, the site of the Loch Ard shipwreck
- See koalas in their natural habitat in the eucalyptus forests of the Kennett River township
- Visit the charming coastal township of Apollo Bay
- Walk through rainforest and eucalyptus trees at Maits Rest
Wilsons Promontory
- Explore pristine beaches and hear the sand squeak on Squeaky Beach
- Walk along Squeaky Beach to Tidal River
- Join a guided walk to the summit of Mount Oberon or Mount Bishop for stunning coastal views
- Marvel at the rugged granite mountains that make this area so picturesque
- Spot native wildlife like kangaroos, wombats, and emus
Written by: Leah Furey – Digital Content Coordinator @gowest.com.au