Marvellous Melbourne was voted the world's most liveable city not just once - but SIX times you guys! That's pretty good going. But for me what makes a place liveable is the stuff you can do without blowing your hard earned cash. Here are our top 10 FREE things to do while you're in Melbourne.
1. Get some culture in you
The National Galleries of Victoria are spread across two sites. The first is the NGV International; it plays host to international artworks from across the globe. It’s featured works range from old masters to young and contemporary pieces. The second is the Ian Potter Centre; it was the very first major gallery dedicated to Australian art. Exhibits range from paintings and prints to sculptures and textiles, representing the nation’s art from the colonial period right up to the present day- enough to please even the most discerning art critic!
NGV International
Location: 180 St Kilda Road
Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 5 pm, closed Tuesdays
Ian Potter Centre
Location: Federation Square Cnr Russell & Flinders Sts
Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 5 pm Closed Mondays
2. Visit city parks and gardens
Why not take a break from the bustling of the city and chill out amongst the trees?
Melbourne has some of the best parks to explore in Australia. But which is our favourite you ask?!
Royal Park, Fitzroy Gardens, Royal Botanic Gardens and the Alexandra Gardens have to be top contenders! All are close to the city, and Royal Park is the largest - covering a whopping 180 hectares, just north of the CBD it's home to sports fields, trams and Melbourne’s Zoological Gardens. The Royal Botanic Gardens are south of the CBD and home to over 50000 plants from all around the world, including many rare and threatened species. Fitzroy Gardens lie side by side with Treasury Gardens so why not combine both in one visit?! The Alexandra Gardens run along the banks of the Yarra River and are full of lush plants. These gardens also boast some of the best views of the most famous buildings and landmarks in Melbourne CBD, including Federation Square and Birrarung Marr.
3. Circle Tram
Melbourne has a free tram zone, and you can jump aboard the circle tram to explore places of interest such as; Melbourne Aquarium, Parliament House and Federation Square. Hop one of these old style trams in any direction, they run every 12 minutes between 10am and 6pm from Sunday to Wednesday and between 10am and 9pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
4. FREE Tourist Bus
Enjoy the idea of seeing the sites and saving your hard earned dollar for that extra coffee? Melbourne also offers a free tourist shuttle bus! Marked by red signs on bus stops, this free service regularly operates throughout the day. There are stops at popular attractions such as; Queen Victoria Market, Chinatown and Fed Square. The full trip takes around 1.5 hours and even has commentary on board.
5. Let’s go to the beach!
Head to St Kilda and relax on the white sandy beaches, only a quick trip from the CBD! You’ll find heaps of new restaurants and bars to explore - it's ideal people watching territory. While you're there, pay Luna Park a visit, Melbourne's famous 1913 amusement park - it costs to go on the ride, but spectating can be just as fun! Don't forget to snap a selfie with the famous Mr Moon! Enjoyed your day on the beach? Stick around St Kilda Esplanade and check out a couple of gigs and live music venue, luckily enough, many of them are free! On Sundays, a craft market sets up along the Esplanade too.
6. Visit a market or two!
Melburnians love a good market, and Queen Victoria Market is the place to be! Busy with tourists, customers and stall holders the atmosphere in the open air market is electric. Wednesdays play host to the Winter/Summer night markets, while Sundays offer a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s free to enter, but bring your willpower, or like me, you will end up trying all of the delicious food on offer and be drawn in by the amazing smells! There is a variety of activities and live acts performing, so be sure to check out their website for more info on what to expect. Other favourites are the Sunday Camberwell market or the Fitzroy Rose Street Artists Market!
7. The Yarra River
Want to enjoy a hot Aussie day? Take a wander down beside the Yarra River, day or night there is always something interesting to see, whether it's the bright lights of the city reflecting on the water at night or the contemporary pieces of art and usual venues to spot along the way. Grab a Yarra River Precinct Artswalk map to make sure you don't miss any!
8. Explore alleys and laneways
I don’t think you can visit Melbourne and not know about the alleys, lanes and arcades! They play host to more than just shortcuts to your next destination, they are canvasses for some of the world’s best street art. Start at the famous Hosier Lane, always keep your eyes peeled - you never know when new art will pop up, or what cute little shops or coffee houses you’ll find. Part of the experience is getting a little lost, but if that's not your style then grab a street walking map to make sure you don’t miss the best bits!
9. Architecture spotting!
Wander around Melbourne and you will quickly fill up your camera with snaps of magnificent buildings! Standouts include; old advertising paintings and far-out futuristic structures, Flinders Street Railway Station, Federation Square and Block Arcade. Why not head to the Victorian State Library? This heritage building, was established in 1854 and is home to over 2 MILLION books! Grab a free map from reception and explore all the nooks and crannies, the library also hosts exhibitions from literary to the fine arts and even free classes.
10. Shrine of Remembrance
Just off St Kilda Road, you will find the statuesque Shrine of Remembrance, completed in 1934 as a dedication to the men and women who lost their lives in WW1. Planning regulations restrict any building to be built that would obstruct the view of the shrine down Swanston Street and goes as far back as Lonsdale Street! Your reward for climbing the steps of the memorial is fantastic views across the city.
Adding a City to your trip doesn't have to be expensive. A little research will allow you to discover a fun, vibrant side to Melbourne. PLUS, you can put the money you've saved on freebies towards a beer to celebrate, a skydive or even a flight to a new country! Planning your next adventure? Why not check out our ultimate packing guide here!
