Melbourne-4-day-itinerary

Melbourne Itinerary: 4 Days of Culture, Coffee & Charm

This itinerary is designed for first-time visitors looking to experience Melbourne’s vibrant mix of culture, food, art, and natural beauty.

Things to Know:

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (September - November) and Autumn (March - May) offer pleasant weather. Summers can be hot, while winters are cool.
  • Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD).
  • Getting Around: Melbourne has a fantastic public transport system with trams, trains, and buses. Purchase a Myki card for easy travel. Walking is also great for exploring the city center.

Accommodation:

Consider staying in Fitzroy, Collingwood, or South Yarra for trendy vibes and easy access to attractions.

Day 1: City Exploration & Street Art

  • Morning:
    • Start your day with a delicious brunch at Hardware Société (CBD). Their ricotta pancakes are legendary.
    • Explore the iconic Federation Square, wander through Flinders Street Station, and admire the street performers.
  • Afternoon:
    • Dive into Melbourne’s laneway culture in Hosier Lane and Degraves Street. Marvel at colorful murals and quirky cafes.
    • Visit ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) for interactive exhibitions on film, TV, and digital culture.
  • Evening:
    • Enjoy dinner at Chin Chin (CBD) for delicious South-East Asian cuisine in a buzzing atmosphere.

Day 2: Gardens & Culture

  • Morning:
    • Stroll through the lush Royal Botanic Gardens, enjoy a picnic by the lake, and visit the Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden.
  • Afternoon:
    • Immerse yourself in art at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), home to an impressive collection spanning centuries.
    • Explore the quirky shops and cafes along Chapel Street in Prahran.
  • Evening:
    • Catch a live music performance at one of Melbourne’s many pubs or music venues like The Corner Hotel or The Tote.

Day 3: Coastal Charm & Foodie Delights

  • Morning:

    • Take a tram to St Kilda and enjoy the vibrant beach atmosphere. Walk along the pier, spot penguins at sunset (seasonal), and have lunch with ocean views.

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore the trendy cafes and boutiques in Fitzroy. Grab a coffee at Patricia or a delicious pastry at Brunetti.

  • Evening:

    • Indulge in a fine dining experience at Attica (Ripponlea) - renowned for its innovative Australian cuisine.

Day 4: Markets & Farewell

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne’s bustling marketplace, and sample local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
  • Afternoon:
    • Relax in Fitzroy Gardens, explore the Captain Cook’s Cottage, or enjoy a final coffee at one of Melbourne’s many specialty cafes.

Tips for Tourists:

  • Myki Card: Purchase a Myki card for easy travel on public transport.
  • Coffee Culture: Embrace Melbourne’s thriving coffee scene and try a “flat white” or “long black”.
  • Laneway Exploration: Get lost in Melbourne’s laneways, discovering hidden bars, cafes, and street art.
  • Free Activities: Take advantage of free events and activities happening throughout the city (check Time Out Melbourne for listings).

Have a wonderful time exploring Melbourne!