Melbourne, Australia, a city known for its dynamic culture and diverse attractions, truly comes alive on a sunny day. The vibrant streets, lush parks, and stunning waterfronts beckon both locals and visitors to step outside and savor the warmth of the sun. In this guide, we will explore 20 fantastic things to do in Melbourne when the skies are clear and the weather is perfect for outdoor adventures. From enjoying the city’s beautiful gardens to indulging in delicious culinary experiences, Melbourne offers a myriad of opportunities to make the most of those glorious sunny days. So, let’s embark on a journey through this sun-kissed city and discover the best ways to soak up the sunshine in Melbourne.
As the most liveable city in the world, for the second year in a row, Melbourne is quite simply the people’s city. Need to get around? We’ve got trams, trains, buses and even city bikes. Need a quick bite or a lazy graze? Cafes and eateries pepper the laneways and streets of Lady Melbourne. So with summer fast approaching it’s time to clear the schedule because here are just 20 things to do in our fair city.
Outdoor & Nature Experiences
1. Royal Botanical Gardens
Stocked up with a picnic basket full of yummy food? Well what better place to enjoy the flavours of the city then with a picnic in the picturesque setting of Melbourne’s biggest garden. Take the train, tram, or free tourist shuttle bus.
Trams from the city stop right at the gate. Entry is free, and there’s a visitor centre and café on-site—don’t miss the tranquil Guilfoyle’s Volcano and ornamental lake.
2. Half Moon Bay Beach
Ready to escape the cityscape? Grab your transport of choice and head 40 minutes from the city, to Half Moon Bay beach. Enjoy the summer rays before taming that grumbly tummy with lunch from the local fish ‘n’ chippery. Reachable by train to Sandringham Station and a short bus ride, this spot is known for the historic HMVS Cerberus shipwreck.
3. Melbourne Zoo
Spend the day travelling through a world of wildlife both local and international. Marvel at Mother Nature’s creations and take a well-deserved rest on the greenery – ice-cream in hand. The Melbourne Zoo is a great day out. If it’s sunny and on a weekend, try to get there early as it’s usually busy, especially in the car park. Don’t forget the kids sunglasses
Easily accessible via tram route 58, the zoo is just north of the city in Royal Park. Tickets range from $28–$42, and it’s worth checking online for family passes or discounts. Don’t miss the Trail of the Elephants or the Wild Sea precinct.
Leisure & Picnics
4. Abbotsford Children’s Farm
With a spare couple of hours up your sleeve, Abbotsford Children’s Farm is just the ticket with baby animals for show and a café offering a menu of home-grown goods. Just a 15-minute drive from the CBD or a short train ride to Victoria Park Station, the farm feels worlds away. Entry is under $20 and includes access to feed animals and wander the scenic grounds near the Yarra River.
5. Botanical Garden’s Moonlight Cinema
Take a picnic basket and watch a film at the Botanical Garden’s Moonlight Cinema. Open from January 2013 and running in the summer months, it’s located inside the Royal Botanic Gardens’ south end. Bring a rug and arrive early to claim a good spot—tickets can be purchased online and often sell out for new releases.
6. Mini Golf
Mini-golf is the only sport that gets better as it gets smaller. (In your face, table tennis.) There are two 18-hole courses at Mini Golf Wetlands, Wheelers Hill – one outdoor, one indoor – might be Melbourne’s best. Accessible via car or public bus, prices start around $15 per game and it’s a hole-in-one for family fun.
Arts, Culture & Museums
7. Heide Museum
Located in the suburb of Heidelberg, Heide Museum was once a creative community belonging to Sunday and John Reed. Built in 1935 the site was home to many artists including Sidney Nolan and Albert Tucker. These days you can visit the three separate galleries or simply walk around the grounds of the estate.
Catch the Hurstbridge line train to Heidelberg, then hop on a local bus or walk about 25 minutes. Entry to the gardens is free, while museum admission is around $20—be sure to check their rotating exhibitions calendar.
8. The National Gallery Victoria
Escape the heat and enter a while world of international artwork. With free entry to the permanent gallery there is little reason not to take a look. Located on St Kilda Road and easily walkable from Flinders Street Station, NGV also hosts paid exhibitions throughout the year, so it’s worth booking ahead for popular ones.
9. Guided Tours
If you’re concerned about missing out a much-loved street, café or street art wall, there are a number of organised tours that can take you there. Many walking tours depart from Federation Square, which is well-connected by public transport. Some popular tour operators include GetYourGuide, Viator, Tripadvisor, and Go West Tours. Expect to pay between $20 and $50 depending on the type—laneway food tours and street art experiences are especially popular.
Food & Drink Highlights
10. Queen Victoria Market
Open Tuesday through Sunday, Queen Victoria Market plays host to local craftsmanship and quality goods. Come early for the fresh produce including fish and vegetables or come later for a simple browse.
A short walk or tram ride from Melbourne Central Station makes access easy, and parking is available nearby. If you’re a foodie, consider joining one of their guided food discovery tours.
11. Ponyfish Island
Drink a beer at Ponyfish Island – like a floating island, this is one bar that whets your whistle without the need of a towel. There are even heaters for those more cooler times. Walk down to the Yarra River from Flinders Street Station and look for the stairs under the Southbank pedestrian bridge.
12. Melbourne’s many Rooftop Bars
Enjoy a beverage at one of Melbourne’s many rooftop bars including: Rooftop, Carlton Club, Siglo and the Alysbury. Most are clustered in and around the CBD, so walking or hopping on a tram makes bar-hopping easy. Some spots have cover charges for weekend nights, so check ahead if you’re heading in with a group.
Unique Activities & Experiences
13. Hard Rock
Climb the walls of the city’s indoor rock climbing facility while taking in the CBD’s views. We recommend going in groups of three so you can each have a turn of climbing and spotting.
Situated opposite Melbourne Central Station, Hard Rock is super easy to reach by train or tram. Gear rental is available on-site, and day passes cost around $30—ideal for beginners and pros alike.
14. Infinity Pool at the Adelphi
Sometimes the best thing on a hot day is a dip in the pool. The CBD’s best kept secret has got to be the Adelphi Infinity Pool, look over the edge of the building all from the safety of 20-storey building. Grab your sexy swimsuit and get ready for a refreshing experience.
Located on Flinders Lane, the Adelphi Hotel is just a five-minute walk from Flinders Street Station. Access is usually for hotel guests, but day passes may be available on enquiry—book in advance for the best chance.
15. Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Have you tried stand up paddle boarding yet? Paddle out into the bay as the sun goes down and the city lights come up. No experience necessary: instructors will have you sailing away from either St Kilda or the Docklands in no time. Rentals typically cost $25–$35 per hour and include a safety briefing and gear.
16. Rebound Leisure Club
Feel like trying something a little different? The Rebound Leisure Club is a multi-purpose fitness venue with monthly nude swim nights that have been running for over 30 years. Bring a plate for the 9pm shared supper – and lots of towels to sit on, of course.
Located in Ringwood, about 40 minutes by train from the city, this quirky venue is best accessed by car. Bookings for the swim nights are essential and can be made online—first-timers are always welcome.
17. Luna Park
Let your hair down and embrace your inner child at Melbourne’s iconic theme park. There’s fairy floss and rides galore. Take tram 96 from the CBD straight to the front gates. Entry is free, with ride passes starting from around $50 for unlimited access.
Sightseeing & City Discovery
18. City Circle Tram
Sometimes the most rewarding things are the ones you find yourself. So why not jump one of the free city circle tram. See something of interest? Hop off and then just as easily hop back on when you’re ready for your next urban discovery.
Running clockwise and counterclockwise around the CBD, the tram is entirely free and runs every 12 minutes. Look out for the burgundy tram cars and grab a printed route map from tourist kiosks or your hotel.
19. Hire a Melbourne City Bike
With 50 Melbourne Share Bike Stations spread across central Melbourne you can cycle the streets of the CBD or, if you’re keen to escape the city grind, head toward the Yarra River Trail, which will take you through the north eastern suburbs of Melbourne.
To get started, download the Lime or Neuron app to locate and unlock a nearby bike or scooter. Helmets are usually provided, and you can explore designated bike trails like Capital City Trail or ride along the Yarra for unbeatable views.
20. Visit the Eureka Tower
Loving the views? Take a walk to the Southbank and enter the world’s second tallest residential building, the Eureka Tower. With an exiting glass skydeck on the 88th floor don’t look down, instead marvel at the 360 degree view. Tickets to the Skydeck start around $28, and it’s open daily with the best views just before sunset.
Worthy Mentions
Would it be fair to end this sunny-day guide here? I don’t think so. Melbourne is a city that always keeps giving—with even more enchanting places tucked just around the corner. Here are a few picks you should add to your itinerary.
1. Brighton Beach Boxes
These colorful heritage bathing boxes are a short train ride from the city and perfect for Instagram-worthy shots. Bring a towel and enjoy the quieter, picturesque stretch of beach.
2. Fitzroy Gardens
Just east of the CBD, these elegant gardens are home to Captain Cook’s Cottage and offer peaceful walking paths shaded by mature trees—a relaxing escape in the heart of the city.
3. The Shrine of Remembrance
Walk or tram to this impressive war memorial near the Botanic Gardens. Climb to the balcony for panoramic views of Melbourne and take a moment of reflection inside.
4. South Melbourne Market
A foodie’s paradise with a strong local vibe—sample fresh oysters, paella, and global street eats. The South Melbourne Market is easily reached by tram, and open Wednesday, Friday to Sunday.
5. Williamstown Waterfront
Take the ferry from Southbank or drive 20 minutes west for seaside charm, historic pubs, and views back to the city skyline. Williamstown waterfront is great for fish and chips and a sunset stroll.
As the sun dips below the horizon and the day draws to a close, Melbourne’s vibrant spirit on a sunny day leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who experienced it. From the lush greenery of the Royal Botanic Gardens to the exciting vibes of the Southbank Promenade, this city offers an array of activities to suit every taste and preference. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a food lover, or a culture connoisseur, Melbourne’s sunny charms cater to all.
And when summer drifts into the city and you’re wondering how to make the most of those golden days, our guide to 20 things to do in Melbourne on a summer’s day is just the inspiration you need to start exploring.
