Your Ultimate Melbourne Bucket List

This February, I will be heading to Melbourne, Australia to study abroad for a semester. I am extremely excited to see what this opportunity brings me and have therefore decided to make a bucket list of a few things I hope to do in Melbourne while I am living abroad. Though I know most of these are probably the generic tourist stops, every adventure has to start somewhere!

1. The City Circle Tram

The City Circle Tram is a free way to get around Melbourne while hearing a little bit of history along the way. It supposedly provides information about the big historical spots in the city, such as the Princess Museum, Melbourne Aquarium, and Parliament House.

2. Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

These gardens are considered Melbourne’s inner oasis and is home to over 10,000 plant species from around the world.

3. ArtVo

ArtVo is Australia’s first immersive, 3D ‘trick-art’ gallery. Here, you are actually allowed to touch the art and there are over 11 themed zones.

4. Yarra Valley Wine and Winery Tour

On this tour, you will get to visit 4 different wineries of Yarra Valley Wines, including tastings and a vineyard lunch.

5. Koalas and Kangaroos in the Wild Tour

On this trip, small groups are taken out with a naturalist, who maximizes your chances of spotting kangaroos, koalas and emus in their natural habitats.

6. Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula has tons of walking trails, but also opportunities for snorkeling or surfing (one of the activities I am not leaving Australia without trying).

7. Wilsons Promontory National Park

This park is supposed to be a great place to spot wombats. You can walk from Squeaky Beach and Picnic Bay from Tidal River, where you can find a cafe, groceries and general store.

8. Queen Victoria Market

Queen Victoria Market has fresh produce, specialty shopping, and a string bean alley with flowers, gifts, coffee and more. There is also a summer night market, which goes from 5pm-10pm on Wednesday nights until March 20th.

9. Naked for Satan Rooftop Restaurant & Bar

Naked for Satan is one of the most well-known rooftop bars and restaurants with a great view overlooking the city. With an assortment of tasty tapas and unique cocktails, you really get to dive into the culture of the city.

10. Melbourne’s Best Coffee Shops

I am a huge fan of local cafes and make it a point to stop at them any chance I can get while traveling. I did some research on the city and The Best Cafes in Melbourne. I cannot wait to explore this list further and post a follow up on my blog about my experiences in the caffeine travels.

I’m hoping this collection makes for a good place to start my year overseas, but if anyone has suggestions on things to do while in Melbourne or Australia in general, feel free to drop your ideas in the comment section. I will always be looking for new suggestions!

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