It’s official: you’re visiting Melbourne on a business trip. While you’re undoubtedly excited to be experiencing one of Australia’s greatest cities, you have a problem: you’re only going to be there for a few days.
So now you’re wondering: what can you do in Melbourne over the course of a few days? In truth, quite a bit. Without further ado, here’s what to do in Melbourne during your short business trip.
Visit Queen Victoria Market
One option is to visit Queen Victoria Market, the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere. Chockful of shops and restaurants, it’s one of Melbourne’s most famous landmarks.
There are all kinds of things you can do at Queen Victoria Market. Whether you want to go on a food tour, go on an educational tour, or just hang out and check out the surroundings, it’s a great place to spend a few hours.
The market is open from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. It’s open on Saturdays from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM and on Sundays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Want to check it out at night? You can on Wednesdays. It’s open from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Go Sightseeing
While Melbourne isn’t exactly Paris, London, or New York City, it still has quite a few sites to see. So, if you have a few spare hours, you might consider taking to the streets and checking them out.
Some of Melbourne’s greatest sites include the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Eureka Tower, the Parliament House, the Shrine of Remembrance, and Captain Cook’s Cottage. You can also gaze out upon the Yarra River.
Melbourne has quite the atmosphere. So, just being in it is bound to stoke your excitement.
Check Out Some Artwork
Are you an art enthusiast? If so, Melbourne is a great place to be. Not only does the city itself consist of attractive artwork but it’s also home to a bevy of top-notch art exhibits.
Some of Melbourne’s best art exhibits include The Hellenic Museum, the Heide Museum of Modern Art, and the Johnston Collection. If you’re looking to check out some art for free, you can visit the National Gallery of Victoria, Australia’s oldest art gallery.
Visit a Museum
Not into art exhibits? If so, you might consider visiting a museum instead. Melbourne has tons of museums for tourists to visit, some of which are free and some of which require a ticket.
Some of Melbourne’s best museums include the Immigration Museum, the Melbourne Museum, the Chinese Museum, and the National Sports Museum. You could also visit the Victoria Police Museum, the RAAF Museum, or the Fire Services Museum of Victoria.
Over the course of a short trip, there’s no way to see them all. However, you’ll at least be able to get a few in during your stay.
Take a Trip to a Winery
If you like alcohol and if you have the chance, you might consider making a trip to a winery. There are quite a few wineries on the outskirts of the city, including Boat O’Craigo Winery, Panton Hill Vineyard and Winery, and Flowerale Winery, to name just a few.
Note, however, that in order to reach these destinations, you’re going to need a car. If you’re stranded without wheels, you’ll have to make do with local bars, breweries, and restaurants. Don’t worry; Whether you’re in a hotel in West Melbourne or in the serviced apartments of East Melbourne, you will have plenty of drink spots in close proximity to you.
Go On a City Circle Tram Tour
Melbourne has an excellent public transportation system. One of the key components in this system is the tram.
Interested in trying it out? You can do so for free by jumping on a City Circle Tram. This tram runs around every 12 minutes and takes passengers on a 50-minute tour around the city circle.
While on the tram, you’ll see a number of the city’s historic buildings, including the Parliament Building, the Windsor Hotel, and the Princess Theatre. All the while, a tour guide will teach you about what you’re seeing, giving you a crash course on Melbourne’s history.
Visit the Zoo
Interested in visiting one of the world’s oldest zoos? If so, you should stop by the Melbourne Zoo. Opened in 1861, the Melbourne Zoo offers visitors the chance to see over 300 animals.
The zoo is particularly lauded for its “Trail of the Elephants” exhibit. Consisting of Asian elephants, it’s highlighted by its traditional village and garden setting.
Other animals you can see at the Melbourne Zoo include orangutans, lions, rhinos, and zebra. Of course, these comprise only a small selection of what’s housed there.
If you have 4 or 5 hours to spare, this is a terrific place to go. If you’re an animal enthusiast, you’re sure to have a good time.
Spend Some Time at Federation Square
If you just want to get out and be around people, you should stop by Federation Square. Offering all types of free entertainment, this square sees tons of visitors on a daily basis.
At Federation Square, you can listen to live music, visit the Ian Potter Art Centre, take a look at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, and participate in a variety of other activities. It’s a can’t-miss type of place. Regardless of your interests, you’re bound to have an interesting experience there.
Now That You Know What to Do in Melbourne…
Now that you know what to do in Melbourne during your short business trip, you might be looking for some tips on other cities. If so, our website can help you.
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