Melbourne street art
Melbourne street art
A City of Culture, Creativity and Cosmopolitan Charm

Melbourne

Street art, café culture, vibrant neighbourhoods, and scenic drives—Melbourne is where creativity and lifestyle come together in perfect harmony.

This down-to-earth city is brimming with fantastic things to see and do—from quirky hidden bars and boutique shopping to Aussie-style brunches, art galleries, vibrant markets, penguin spotting and so much more.

With TravelEssence, you’ll discover the city like a local, with carefully chosen places to stay and one-of-a-kind experiences that bring your journey to life.

For hair-raising excitement, visit Luna Park
© Tourism Australia
Discover the hidden gems of Melbourne from a local’s perspective
© Flynn Edwards

Sample trips

Discover the treasures of the south 5 week family-friendly journey with the perfect mix of culture, nature and history

Australia

31 days - £6,299 Per person

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City sightseeing and beyond Discover Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula, Great Ocean Road, and the Grampians

Australia

14 days - £2,480 Per person

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Combining family visits with relaxation and adventure Discover Melbourne outskirts with your family

Australia

8 days - 3980 £ In high season

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Cities, Outback, Rainforest and Reef Best of Australia

Australia

16 days - £6,900 Per person

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Things to see and do in Melbourne

Federation Square and the Arts Precinct

Start your journey in Federation Square, a striking blend of architecture, public art and open space. From here, explore the nearby National Gallery of Victoria or catch a performance at the Arts Centre, Melbourne. The area is a hub for culture, creativity and connection.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Just a short walk from the city centre, Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens is a 94-acre sanctuary of calm. Stroll among ornamental lakes, native plant collections and shaded lawns—perfect for a picnic or a moment of peace away from the urban buzz.

Queen Victoria Market

A Melbourne institution, the Queen Victoria Market is a lively place to sample local produce, artisan goods and international cuisine. It’s a feast for the senses and a great way to connect with the city’s multicultural roots.

Street art and laneways

Melbourne is famous for its laneway culture. Don’t miss a walk through Hosier Lane, where colourful street art bursts from every wall. Discover hidden cafés, independent boutiques and wine bars tucked into the city’s most unexpected corners.

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

For sports lovers, a visit to the MCG is a must. Whether you catch an Aussie Rules football game or take a behind-the-scenes tour, it’s a chance to experience one of the most iconic stadiums in the world.

Enjoy a flat white (Aussie-style coffee) at Federation Square
© Visit Victoria
Street art Melbourne | Australia holiday
Discover Melbourne's laneways together with a local guide
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A taste of Melbourne

Café culture

Melbourne’s coffee scene is legendary. From tiny espresso bars to airy brunch spots, the city takes its caffeine seriously. Join the locals in discovering the perfect flat white or pour-over brew.

Dining hotspots

From elegant fine dining to laneway dumpling bars, Melbourne’s food scene reflects its global spirit. Explore diverse cuisines in neighbourhoods like Carlton (Italian), Richmond (Vietnamese), or Footscray (African and Middle Eastern).

Rooftop bars and night markets

Sip cocktails above the city skyline or browse after-dark street food stalls at Queen Victoria Night Market. Melbourne’s nightlife is vibrant and eclectic, with something to suit every mood.

St Kilda Beach, Victoria
Feel the beach vibes in St Kilda on the terrace
Purchase local delicacies at Queen Victoria Markets
© Queen Victoria Market

Where to stay?

Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our large collection of hand-selected accommodations located in Melbourne and beyond. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel in the heart of the CBD, an apartment overlooking the Yarra River in Southbank or a quirky bed & breakfast along the Great Ocean Road, we have found the perfect place for you. 

Your travel specialist will match you up with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. A journey where your accommodation is an experience in itself.

Experience Melbourne in absolute luxury
Local Aussie hosts with their dog in The Grampians
Stay with local hosts along the Great Ocean Road

Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.