You might be a foodie, an art lover, or an aficionado of vibrant cultures. Melbourne has something for all of the above. You can find hole-in-the-wall cafes, one of the best art and live music scenes in Australia, and more, all ready to be seen over a weekend.
If you are looking for fun activities in Melbourne, there are hidden gems, iconic attractions, and everything in between. Let’s explore!
Melbourne’s markets are a literal treasure trove of local culture, and while they ramp up to be one of the best things to do in Melbourne in December, they are a year-round staple that is worth a look. You’ll find fresh produce, unique finds, and plenty of other treats worthy of a slice of your weekend-in-the-city schedule.
The iconic Queen Victoria Market is a rite of passage for any visitor, offering everything from gourmet delicacies to souvenirs. For food lovers, South Melbourne Market delivers fresh pastries and a cheese room, which is a foodie’s dream come true. Over in South Yarra, Prahran Market focuses on high-quality, organic produce and artisanal delights, while Dandenong Market celebrates Melbourne’s multicultural fabric with street food from around the world.
Art and creativity shine at the Rose Street Artists’ Market, where you can meet local makers and snag one-of-a-kind items. Camberwell Market serves up a mix of second-hand goods, vintage finds, and retro treasures for a quirky Sunday adventure. Meanwhile, St Kilda Esplanade Market combines beach vibes with handcrafted goods, offering a perfect blend of shopping and seaside strolling.
If you’re after a farmers’ market vibe, check out the many options scattered across the city for fresh, local produce (there’s basically one in every suburb). And for night-time exploring, the Chinatown Melbourne Market is the place to go for delicious street food and some next-level energy.
Melbourne is a sanctuary for art enthusiasts, and while there are always free things to do in Melbourne this weekend, and most weekends, art galleries are at the top of the list. Both traditional and contemporary works are on display by local talents and international artists. Here are some of the best ones to visit:
A must-visit, the NGV International in Southbank is home to an impressive collection spanning centuries, including works by Rembrandt and Dali. Its famous Water Wall and the stunning stained-glass ceiling create an immersive art experience. For a focus on Australian art, the Ian Potter Centre in Federation Square showcases works from the colonial era to contemporary Indigenous artists.
ACCA, known for its striking rust-red facade, is a hub for avant-garde exhibitions. This not-for-profit space consistently challenges the boundaries of art, featuring bold works from local and international artists.
Take a trip over to Bulleen, Heide, for a blend of art, architecture, and nature. With a focus on Australian modernism, its three buildings and sprawling sculpture park offer an enriching escape for art lovers.
Located in St Kilda, Linden is a quirky, contemporary gallery spotlighting emerging Australian artists. Don’t miss their annual Postcard Show, where pint-sized artworks are showcased.
FCAC in Melbourne’s west is a cultural hub, championing diversity and inclusion, hosting exhibitions, performances, and workshops that celebrate the city’s rich artistic fabric.
For those wanting to explore or purchase contemporary art, MARS in Windsor offers an intimate look at some of the most innovative works from Australia and beyond.
Melbourne’s food culture celebrates diversity, creativity, and passion for exceptional flavours. This city is a destination for food enthusiasts with gems hidden in laneways or out in plain sight in some of the country’s best restaurants. It’s as simple as this: you’ll never have a bad meal in Melbourne. Here are some of the must-try spots during your Melbourne weekend:
Start your culinary journey with perfection in pastry. Lune’s croissants are crafted in a temperature-controlled lab, resulting in buttery, flaky layers that melt in your mouth. With lines often wrapping around the block, this is a Melbourne staple you need to experience.
For dumpling lovers (read: everyone), Shandong Mama offers a signature Spanish mackerel dumpling that is a truly soft, pillowy treat delicately flavoured with ginger and coriander. Whether you like them boiled or fried, they’re a must-try and easy to access in the heart of the city.
This beloved institution is famous for its chickpea bake, a hearty blend of toasted flatbread, chickpeas, ghee, and tahini. It’s comfort food with a North African twist, served in a spot that has a fun and engaging atmosphere you need to experience for yourself.
Affordable, authentic, and utterly delicious, A1 Bakery serves up some of the best Lebanese dishes in the city. Try the chicken tawouk wrap, packed with marinated chicken, crunchy pickles, and creamy garlic sauce.
One of the best restaurants in Melbourne also happens to be completely vegan! This is fine dining comfort food that you will need to book ahead for, as it is incredibly popular. The theme of the restaurant is always changing; it could be Italian one moment and Spanish the next, but no matter what is on the menu, you can be sure it will be one of the most delicious dishes you’ve ever tasted.
