14-Day Melbourne Itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival & First Look at Melbourne

Your first day in Melbourne is all about settling into the city and taking in its welcoming atmosphere. After checking into your hotel, head to Southbank for an easy stroll along the Yarra River, where you’ll get your first glimpse of the city’s skyline and lively culture. Wander through Federation Square, explore the surrounding laneways, and soak in the creative energy that Melbourne is known for. If you’re up for it, finish the day with a sunset view from the Eureka Skydeck to set the tone for your two weeks ahead.

Suggested activities:

• Check into your hotel in the CBD, Southbank, or Fitzroy.
• Walk the Southbank Promenade for Yarra River views.
• Explore Federation Square and ACMI.
• Wander Melbourne’s laneways for food, murals, and boutique shops.
• Optional: Visit Eureka Skydeck for sunset city views.

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Day 2 — Laneways, Cafés & Street Art

Today dives into the heart of Melbourne’s café and laneway culture. Start with a specialty coffee at one of the city’s iconic cafés before exploring Degraves Street, Centre Place, and Hosier Lane—each one packed with street art, boutique shops, and hole-in-the-wall eateries. Take your time wandering between laneways, visiting the historic State Library Victoria, and browsing the Queen Victoria Market for local snacks and souvenirs. This day captures everything that makes Melbourne quirky, creative, and endlessly fascinating.

Things to do:

• Grab specialty coffee at Patricia Coffee, Dukes, or Brother Baba Budan.
• Explore Degraves Street, Centre Place, and Hosier Lane.
• Visit the stunning State Library Victoria dome reading room.
• Browse the Queen Victoria Market for fresh food and souvenirs.

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Day 3 — Museums & Gardens

Day three blends nature and culture with a visit to NGV International, one of Australia’s most significant art museums, followed by a peaceful stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens. Between lush lawns, serene lakes, and shaded walking paths, it’s an ideal spot to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. Continue to the Shrine of Remembrance for sweeping views over the city before optionally exploring NGV Australia or the Immigration Museum for deeper insight into Australia’s history and identity.

Highlights:

• Spend the morning at NGV International, Australia’s oldest art museum.
• Stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens (don’t miss the ornamental lake).
• Visit the Shrine of Remembrance for panoramic city views.
• Optional: Head to NGV Australia at Federation Square or the Immigration Museum.

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Day 4 — St Kilda Beach & Pier

Escape to the coast with a relaxing day in St Kilda, one of Melbourne’s most beloved beachside neighborhoods. Enjoy the sunshine as you walk along the golden sand, grab pastries on Acland Street, and wander the iconic St Kilda Pier. Stick around until dusk and you might spot the local penguin colony returning from their day at sea. With its laid-back vibe and stunning sunset views, St Kilda offers the perfect urban beach experience without ever leaving the city.

What to do:

• Ride the tram to St Kilda.
• Walk the sandy stretch of St Kilda Beach.
• Visit Acland Street for bakeries and cafés.
• Sunset at St Kilda Pier, where penguins appear at dusk.
• Optional: Visit Luna Park.

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Day 5 — Fitzroy, Collingwood & Local Culture

Immerse yourself in Melbourne’s creative side with a full day exploring Fitzroy and Collingwood. These neighborhoods are packed with independent boutiques, bookstores, breweries, and colorful murals that showcase local artistry. Grab brunch on Brunswick Street, wander through vintage shops and galleries, and explore Collingwood’s growing food and bar scene. This area captures the city’s youthful edge and alternative culture, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Melbourne like a local.

Highlights:

• Brunch on Brunswick Street.
• Vintage shops, record stores, and murals in Fitzroy.
• Galleries, craft breweries, and small bars in Collingwood.
• Evening cocktails at The Everleigh.

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Day 6 — Great Ocean Road Day Trip

One of the world’s most breathtaking coastal drives awaits along the Great Ocean Road. Spend the day weaving past surf beaches, seaside towns, and lush rainforest before reaching the dramatic limestone formations of the Twelve Apostles. From Loch Ard Gorge to Apollo Bay, each stop offers postcard-perfect views and the kind of scenery you’ll remember long after the trip ends. Though it’s a long day, the Great Ocean Road is an essential Melbourne experience.

Must-see stops:

• Torquay (surf culture)
• Anglesea & Lorne
• Apollo Bay
• Twelve Apostles
• Loch Ard Gorge

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Day 7 — Yarra Valley Wine + Healesville Sanctuary

Today combines fine wine, rolling vineyards, and Australian wildlife. Begin in the Yarra Valley, where world-class wineries like Chandon and De Bortoli offer tastings with stunning views. From sparkling wines to bold reds, the region is a paradise for wine lovers. Pair this with a visit to Healesville Sanctuary, where kangaroos, koalas, and other native animals live in a natural bush setting. It’s a peaceful, scenic, and flavorful escape from the city.

What to do:

• Sip sparkling wine at Chandon.
• Visit De Bortoli or Yering Station.
• Stop by Healesville Sanctuary to see koalas and kangaroos.

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Day 8 — Phillip Island Penguins

Phillip Island delivers one of Australia’s most memorable wildlife experiences. Start your visit with the Koala Conservation Centre or rugged ocean views at The Nobbies before heading to the famous Penguin Parade at sunset. As hundreds of little penguins waddlе ashore after a day of fishing, you’ll witness an authentic natural spectacle that appeals to travelers of all ages. This day perfectly blends coastal scenery, wildlife, and unforgettable moments.

Highlights:

• Koala Conservation Centre
• The Nobbies & dramatic coastal views
• Penguin Parade at sunset

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Day 9 — Market Day & Relaxation

After several big sightseeing days, take things slow with a relaxed morning around Melbourne’s markets. Queen Victoria Market and South Melbourne Market offer fresh food, handmade goods, and local energy that reflects the city’s multicultural roots. Wander the stalls, enjoy a casual lunch, and spend your afternoon exploring waterfront areas like Docklands or South Wharf. This is the perfect recharge day before the adventures continue.

Ideas:

• Explore Queen Victoria Market or South Melbourne Market.
• Wander through Docklands or South Wharf.
• Optional spa experience or cooking class.

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Day 10 — Daylesford & Hepburn Springs

Head into the countryside for a wellness-focused getaway in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs. Known as Australia’s spa capital, the region features mineral-rich waters, cozy cafés, and peaceful walking paths around Lake Daylesford. Spend the afternoon soaking in natural thermal waters at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, browsing local boutiques, or simply enjoying the slow pace of this charming town. It’s the ultimate day for relaxation and restoration.

What to do:

• Scenic walk around Lake Daylesford
• Boutique shops & local galleries
• Mineral baths at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

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Day 11 — The Grampians National Park

The Grampians offer some of Victoria’s most spectacular natural landscapes, making this day an adventure for nature lovers. Hike to iconic lookouts like The Pinnacle and Boroka Lookout for sweeping views of rugged cliffs, vast valleys, and forested trails. Along the way, you’ll likely encounter wild kangaroos and native birds. Whether you’re hiking or simply taking in the scenery, the Grampians deliver an unforgettable connection to Australia’s wilderness.

Top sights:

• The Pinnacle
• Boroka Lookout
• Reed Lookout
• Wildlife spotting (kangaroos, emus)

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Day 12 — Werribee Open Range Zoo + Williamstown

Experience a taste of African-style safari at the Werribee Open Range Zoo, where animals roam spacious open plains that mimic their natural habitats. After your wildlife encounters, make your way to Williamstown, a charming seaside suburb known for its calm beaches, cafes, and panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline. It’s a relaxing day that mixes adventure, fresh air, and coastal beauty without straying too far from the city.

Activities:

• Open-air safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo
• Explore Williamstown cafés & sandy beaches
• Optional sunset ferry back to Melbourne

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Day 13 — Shopping, Rooftops & Modern Culture

Your second-last day in Melbourne is all about urban exploration and contemporary culture. Browse major shopping destinations like Emporium and Melbourne Central, visit weekend design markets if they’re running, or explore hidden boutiques around the CBD. In the evening, discover Melbourne’s vibrant nightlife with a visit to one of its iconic rooftop bars, where you can toast to your final night with city views and a lively atmosphere.

Ideas:

• Shop at Emporium, Melbourne Central, and Bourke Street Mall.
• Visit design markets (usually on weekends).
• End the night with a rooftop bar: HER, Naked for Satan, or Rooftop at Curtin House.

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Day 14 — Final Day in Melbourne

Spend your last day embracing the parts of Melbourne you loved most—whether that’s a final café brunch, a scenic walk along the Yarra River, or some last-minute shopping. Use this day to reflect on the highlights of your two-week journey and soak in the city’s creative spirit one more time. As you head to the airport, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for everything Melbourne has to offer.

Suggestions:

• One final café brunch
• Last-minute souvenir shopping
• Peaceful walk along the Yarra River
• Transfer to the airport

Final Tips for Your 14 Days in Melbourne

• Weather: Melbourne changes quickly — always bring a light jacket.
• Trams: Free within the CBD Free Tram Zone.
• Coffee: Some of the best in the world — try a flat white.
• Driving: Needed only for day trips (Yarra Valley, Great Ocean Road, Grampians).
• Peak times: January–March offers the best weather.

A 14-day trip to Melbourne gives you the perfect balance of city culture, coastal scenery, exciting wildlife, and unforgettable day trips. From wandering iconic laneways and tasting world-class coffee to exploring the Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley, and the Grampians, this itinerary helps you experience the very best of Victoria at a comfortable, enjoyable pace. Whether you’re here for the food, the nature, or the creative energy that defines the city, Melbourne delivers something memorable every single day.

Use this guide as your starting point, mix in your own interests, and let Melbourne surprise you. No matter how you choose to spend your two weeks, you’ll leave with incredible photos, deeper appreciation for Australia’s culture, and a strong desire to come back and explore even more.