Melbourne 3-Day Trip Itinerary
Melbourne Trip - Dec 25 to Dec 27
A 3-day exploration of Melbourne, combining iconic city views, vibrant markets, cultural institutions, and a magical evening experience. This itinerary assumes one person traveling.
Arrival & City Icons
Thursday, December 25Arrive & Hotel Check-in
Arrive at Melbourne Airport (MEL), take an airport transfer to your hotel, and check in.
Allow time to settle in.
You can book a private transfer via Viator for convenience: https://www.viator.com/tours/Melbourne/Mnmridez-Melbourne-Chauffeur-Service/d384-341902P2
Consider pre-booking an airport transfer or using the SkyBus.
Lunch in CBD
Enjoy lunch at a cafe or restaurant in Melbourne's central business district.
Melbourne offers a diverse range of culinary options, from laneway cafes to upscale dining. Explore Flinders Lane for great choices.
Melbourne Skydeck
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Melbourne from the Southern Hemisphere's highest public vantage point.
Book tickets in advance to save time. Pricing varies, check their website for current rates. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g255100-d654640-Reviews-Melbourne_Skydeck-Melbourne_Victoria.html?m=66827
Alexandra Gardens Stroll
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the beautiful Alexandra Gardens, a peaceful green space along the Yarra River.
A great spot for relaxing and enjoying the city's natural beauty. You can often see rowers on the Yarra River.
Federation Square & ACMI
Explore Federation Square, Melbourne's vibrant public space, and visit ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) for its unique exhibitions on film, TV, and digital culture.
ACMI often has free exhibitions, check their website for current offerings.
Dinner in Southbank
Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along the Southbank promenade, offering diverse cuisines and river views.
Culture & Markets
Friday, December 26National Gallery of Victoria
Immerse yourself in art at the National Gallery of Victoria, Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring a vast collection of international and Australian art.
General admission is free for the permanent collection, with charges for special exhibitions. Check their website for current exhibitions.
South Melbourne Market
Experience 'The Village Market' at South Melbourne Market, a historic landmark offering fresh produce, gourmet foods, fashion, and unique gifts.
Grab lunch from one of the many vendors.
A vibrant spot for foodies and shoppers. The market has been operating since 1867. Check opening hours as they vary. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g255100-d2301500-Reviews-South_Melbourne_Market-Melbourne_Victoria.html?m=66827
Old Melbourne Gaol
Step back in time at the Old Melbourne Gaol, where Australia's most infamous criminals, including Ned Kelly, were once held.
Explore the prison cells and learn about its history.
Highly recommended for history buffs. Book tickets online to ensure entry, especially during peak times. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g255100-d256568-Reviews-Old_Melbourne_Gaol-Melbourne_Victoria.html?m=66827
State Library Victoria
Visit the magnificent State Library Victoria, an architectural gem with stunning reading rooms, exhibitions, and a rich history.
Don't miss the iconic La Trobe Reading Room.
Free entry. Check their website for guided tours or special exhibitions.
Dinner & Evening Entertainment
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the CBD, then consider catching a show at Arts Centre Melbourne or exploring one of Melbourne's famous laneway bars.
Arts Centre Melbourne offers a range of performances. Check their schedule in advance if you'd like to see a show. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g255100-d257322-Reviews-Arts_Centre_Melbourne-Melbourne_Victoria.html?m=66827
River Fun & Magic
Saturday, December 27Self-Drive Yarra River Boat
Hire a self-drive boat on the Yarra River and see Melbourne's skyline from a unique perspective.
No boat license required, perfect for a relaxing morning.
A fun way to explore the city! Price is for up to 10 people, making it great value for groups, or a unique experience for solo travelers. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Melbourne/2-Hour-Self-Drive-Boat-Hire-on-the-Yarra-River/d384-15438P2
Queen Victoria Market
Discover the historic Queen Victoria Market, a bustling inner-city market selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to souvenirs and clothing.
Grab lunch from a food stall.
Australia's largest open-air market. Check opening hours, as they are usually closed on Mondays and Wednesdays. They have special night markets too.
Maho Magic Bar
Be transported to downtown Tokyo for a neon-lit night of mischief, magic, laughter and cocktails at Maho Magic Bar, featuring an ultimate line-up of sleight-of-hand artists.
An intimate and unique experience. Check venue for specific pricing and available showtimes (another show is at 4:00 PM). Booking: https://ticketmaster.evyy.net/c/6095736/2038760/24024?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.universe.com%2Fevents%2Fmaho-magic-bar-tickets-FX1PKM%3Fref%3Dticketmaster&utm_medium=affiliate
Depart Melbourne
Head to Melbourne Airport for your departure.
You can book a private transfer via Viator for convenience: https://www.viator.com/tours/Melbourne/Mnmridez-Melbourne-Chauffeur-Service/d384-341902P2
Allow ample time for travel to the airport and check-in procedures. Consider pre-booking an airport transfer.
This 3-day itinerary for Melbourne can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.