Melbourne at a Glance: A 24-Hour Itinerary

Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, is a city that thrives on diversity, creativity, and charm. Known for its mix of Victorian architecture, vibrant street art, buzzing laneways, and dynamic food scene, Melbourne has something for every traveler. Even if you only have 24 hours, the city offers a compact yet rich experience that blends modern sophistication with laid-back Australian spirit. This itinerary provides a carefully curated guide to exploring Melbourne in just one day—covering must-see attractions, hidden gems, culinary highlights, transportation options, costs, and practical tips for a safe and memorable trip.

Start with Melbourne’s Coffee Culture
Melbourne is often called the coffee capital of the world, and rightly so. Begin your morning in a laneway café such as Hardware Société or Brother Baba Budan. A flat white or cappuccino costs around AUD 5, and pairing it with a pastry will set you back another AUD 5–7.

Explore Federation Square and Flinders Street Station
From there, head to Federation Square, an iconic public space opposite the historic Flinders Street Station. Federation Square hosts galleries and cultural centers like the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, showcasing Indigenous and contemporary art. Entry is free, though special exhibitions may cost around AUD 15–20.

Walk Along Hosier Lane
A short walk away, Hosier Lane is Melbourne’s street art hub. Bright murals, graffiti, and urban art installations cover every wall, making it a paradise for photographers. No cost—just your time and camera.

Stroll Through the Royal Botanic Gardens
Next, enjoy the calm beauty of the Royal Botanic Gardens. With sprawling lawns, ornamental lakes, and over 8,500 plant species, it’s one of the most peaceful escapes in the heart of the city. Entry is free, and guided Aboriginal Heritage Walks cost about AUD 35.

Walk Along the Yarra River
From the gardens, walk along the Yarra River promenade. Street performers, open-air cafés, and views of Melbourne’s skyline make it an excellent spot for relaxation. Grab a smoothie or light snack here for around AUD 10–12.

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market
Head to the Queen Victoria Market, a historic open-air marketplace that has been serving Melburnians since 1878. Here, you’ll find food stalls offering everything from gourmet cheese to authentic paella. A filling meal costs between AUD 15–20, with desserts like doughnuts or gelato around AUD 5–8.

Explore Bourke Street Mall and Melbourne Central
After lunch, make your way to Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne’s shopping hub featuring international brands, local designers, and department stores like Myer and David Jones. Prices vary widely, but budget around AUD 100–150 if you plan on shopping. Even if you’re not buying, window-shopping is an experience in itself.

Sunset at Eureka Skydeck
As evening approaches, head to Eureka Skydeck—the Southern Hemisphere’s highest observation deck at 297 meters. The panoramic view of the city at sunset is breathtaking. General admission costs around AUD 28, while the “Edge Experience” (a glass cube that extends outside the building) costs an extra AUD 12.

Dinner on Southbank
After enjoying the skyline, walk down to Southbank, a riverside dining precinct. Choose from a range of restaurants offering cuisines like Italian, Asian fusion, or modern Australian. A main course meal typically costs AUD 25–40, with wine or cocktails priced at AUD 12–18 each. For a mid-range dinner for two, expect to spend around AUD 80–100.

Experience Melbourne’s Nightlife
If you still have energy left, Melbourne’s nightlife won’t disappoint. From rooftop bars like Naked in the Sky in Fitzroy to hidden speakeasies such as Eau de Vie, the options are endless. Drinks cost between AUD 10–20, depending on what you order.

Catch a Show
Alternatively, you can watch a live performance at the Arts Centre Melbourne or a musical at the Regent Theatre. Ticket prices vary, typically between AUD 50–150 depending on the event.

Arriving in Melbourne
Melbourne’s main airport is Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine), located 22 km from the city center. SkyBus operates regular shuttles to Southern Cross Station for about AUD 22 one-way. Taxis or rideshares cost around AUD 50–70.

Getting Around the City
Melbourne has an efficient public transport system—trams, trains, and buses. The Myki card is needed to travel, costing AUD 6 for the card plus recharge. Daily travel in the city center usually costs about AUD 9–10. The City Circle Tram is free and covers many key tourist attractions.

• Budget: Hostels like Space Hotel or The Village Melbourne, starting from AUD 35–50 per night.
• Mid-Range: Hotels such as Ibis Melbourne Central or Crown Promenade, ranging from AUD 120–200 per night.
• Luxury: Five-star options like The Langham Melbourne or Crown Towers, from AUD 350–600 per night.

• Coffee & Breakfast: AUD 10–15
• Attractions & Activities: AUD 30–50
• Lunch: AUD 15–20
• Transport (Myki + Airport transfer): AUD 30–40
• Shopping (optional): AUD 100+
• Dinner & Drinks: AUD 50–100
• Accommodation: AUD 50–200+ depending on budget

Total Estimate: Around AUD 250–450 for a comfortable 24-hour experience (excluding luxury splurges).

• Weather: Melbourne is famous for “four seasons in a day.” Carry a light jacket or umbrella.
• Costs: While some attractions are free, dining and shopping can add up quickly. Budget accordingly.
• Transport: Always tap your Myki card when entering and exiting trams/trains to avoid fines.
• Safety: Melbourne is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas late at night. Pickpocketing is rare but stay alert in crowded places.

Conclusion

Even with just one day, Melbourne offers a whirlwind of culture, food, art, and city life that leaves a lasting impression. From sipping world-class coffee in hidden laneways to watching the sunset from the Eureka Skydeck, this 24-hour itinerary captures the essence of Melbourne. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, Melbourne’s mix of tradition and modern flair ensures that every moment counts.