Ultimate Melbourne Itinerary: 3, 5 & 7-Day Plans for First-Timers

Let's be honest. Planning a trip to Melbourne can feel like trying to solve a puzzle where all the pieces keep changing shape. You've heard about the laneways, the coffee, the trams, the unpredictable weather (more on that later), and maybe you've seen a list of "top 10 things to do." But how does it all fit together in a limited number of days? How do you avoid spending half your vacation on a tram trying to get from one side of the city to the other?

That's where this guide comes in. I've spent a silly amount of time wandering Melbourne's streets, getting lost in its arcades, waiting for trams in the rain, and figuring out what's genuinely worth your time. This isn't just another listicle. Think of it as a blueprint, a set of flexible plans you can adapt to build your own perfect Melbourne tourism itinerary. Whether you've got a long weekend or a full week, we'll map it out.

I'll even tell you about a couple of spots that didn't quite live up to the hype for me. Balance, right?

First, Get to Know Melbourne's Vibe & Layout

Before we jump into day-by-day plans, you need a mental map. Melbourne isn't a city you "see" from one observation deck. You "feel" it by exploring its distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality. Trying to cram everything into a central hotel-based sightseeing sprint is the fastest way to miss the point.

The city unfolds from the centre.

The CBD (Central Business District): This is the downtown core, a grid of streets hiding the famous laneways (Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane), grand Victorian buildings, and the main shopping spine. It's busy, it's where you'll likely arrive, and it's packed with food options. Great for a day of exploration, but staying here can feel a bit impersonal.

North of the CBD: Cross the Yarra River, and you hit a different world. Fitzroy and Collingwood are the heart of Melbourne's alternative scene. Think street art that isn't just for tourists, indie boutiques, live music pubs, and some of the city's best cafes. It's gritty, creative, and utterly captivating. Carlton is the traditional Italian quarter, with Lygon Street offering old-school trattorias.

South of the CBD: Southbank is the glitzy promenade with arts centres, fancy restaurants, and the Crown Casino complex. South Melbourne and Port Melbourne are more residential, with fantastic markets and beachside walks. St Kilda is the iconic beach suburb, with its historic Luna Park, palm-lined boardwalk, and penguin colony at the breakwater (yes, really).

East of the CBD: Richmond is for food lovers, especially Vietnamese cuisine on Victoria Street. Hawthorn and Kew are leafier, more upscale suburbs.

Crafting Your Core Melbourne Itinerary: 3, 5, and 7-Day Plans

Alright, let's get practical. Here’s how I’d structure your time based on how many days you have. These aren't rigid schedules—think of them as themed daily frameworks. Mix and match based on your energy levels and interests.

Here’s a quick overview to help you decide what fits your trip length:

The Perfect 3-Day Melbourne Tourism Itinerary (The Essentials)

Short on time? This plan hits the iconic highlights without making you run a marathon.

Day 1: Heart of the City & Cultural Beating Heart. Start in Federation Square. It's an architectural oddity, but it's the city's meeting point. Pop into the Koorie Heritage Trust for a crucial First Peoples perspective. Then, get lost. Seriously. Wander up Flinders Lane, duck into Degraves Street for coffee, explore the Block Arcade with its stunning plasterwork. Your goal is to find street art in Hosier Lane and maybe grab a famous hot doughnut from the American Doughnut Kitchen van (if the line isn't insane). In the afternoon, choose your culture: the magnificent National Gallery of Victoria (NGV International) on St Kilda Road (free general entry!) or a tour of the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). For dinner, head to Chinatown on Little Bourke Street for dumplings.

Day 2: The Alternative North & Market Madness. Take a tram up to Fitzroy. Start at the Melbourne Museum in Carlton Gardens—it's way more interesting than it sounds, with a fantastic forest gallery and Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Then, walk down Brunswick Street. Peer into second-hand bookshops, browse designer-maker stores, and stop for a long lunch at a cafe with no sign (they're the best ones). In the late afternoon, make your way to the Queen Victoria Market. It's not just a tourist spot; it's a working market. Go for the atmosphere, the deli hall, and the cheap souvenirs. On Wednesday nights in summer, they have a fantastic night market with food and music.

Day 3: Gardens, Arcades & Southbank Glamour. Spend the morning in the Royal Botanic Gardens. They're immense, peaceful, and free. You can easily spend two hours here. Then, walk or tram to the city for a final round of arcade hopping—the Royal Arcade with its giant Gog and Magog clocks is a must. Cross the Yarra River via the pedestrian bridge. Walk along Southbank, people-watch, and maybe visit the Arts Centre Melbourne (the spire is a landmark). Consider splurging on a dinner with a view here, or take a tram to Richmond for a more down-to-earth, incredible Vietnamese meal on Victoria Street.

The Balanced 5-Day Melbourne Itinerary (Deeper Dive)

With five days, you can breathe and add two of Melbourne's classic suburban experiences.

Days 1-3: Follow the 3-day plan above. It gives you the core.

Day 4: Beachside St Kilda & Bay Views. Take the tram all the way down to St Kilda. Walk along the palm-lined pier, check out the historic (and slightly creepy) faces of Luna Park. Have a cake at one of the famous establishments like Monarch Cake Shop. The real gem is the St Kilda Botanical Gardens—a lovely, quiet escape. As dusk falls, head to the end of the St Kilda Breakwater to see the little penguins come ashore. It's a small colony, and you must be quiet and respectful, but it's a magical experience right in the city. For dinner, Acland Street has heaps of options, though some are quite touristy.

Day 5: South Melbourne & a Foodie Finale. Start at the South Melbourne Market. I prefer this to Queen Vic Market sometimes—it feels more local, less crowded, and has incredible food stalls. Try a famous dim sim from the South Melbourne Market Dim Sim shop. Then, wander the surrounding streets of South Melbourne, full of beautiful Victorian terraces. In the afternoon, you have a choice: head back to a neighborhood you loved for last-minute shopping (maybe Fitzroy for records or books) or, if you're a fan, visit the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) in Federation Square for a deep dive into film and TV. For your last dinner, let your cravings guide you—you'll know by now if you want more Italian in Carlton, modern Australian in the city, or something else entirely.

The Ultimate 7-Day Melbourne Tourism Itinerary (City & Beyond)

A week lets you experience Melbourne's rhythm and venture beyond its borders. This is the ideal Melbourne travel itinerary for those who want it all.

Days 1-5: Follow the comprehensive 5-day plan. This covers the urban core thoroughly.

Day 6: Choose Your Adventure - The Great Day Trip. This is non-negotiable for a 7-day trip. Melbourne is surrounded by incredible regions. Picking one is the hardest part.

• Option A (Nature & Wildlife): The Great Ocean Road. It's a long day (12+ hours), but if you've never seen it, it's breathtaking. You'll see the Twelve Apostles, lush rainforest, and dramatic coastline. Book a tour unless you're confident driving on the left. It's a marathon, but worth it for the iconic views.
• Option B (Wine & Peninsula): The Mornington Peninsula. Closer, more relaxed. Think wineries, hot springs (Peninsula Hot Springs), charming seaside villages like Sorrento, and rolling green hills. Perfect for a relaxing, indulgent day.
• Option C (History & Quiet Charm): Take a ferry from Southbank or a train to Williamstown. This historic port town feels a world away, with colonial buildings, maritime museums, and lovely waterfront pubs. It's a low-key, easy alternative.

Day 7: Your Personal Melbourne Day. Use your final day to revisit a favorite spot, explore a neighborhood you missed, or fulfill a specific interest. Want to see a footy game at the MCG? Check the AFL fixture. Interested in architecture? Do a self-guided tour of the city's modern skyscrapers. Just want to sit in a park with a book from Readings bookshop? Do that. This day is about soaking in the Melbourne feeling on your own terms.

Building Your Itinerary: Key Questions Answered

Plans are one thing. Actually making them work is another. Here are the nitty-gritty details that turn a good Melbourne tourism itinerary into a great one.

Where to Stay? It Depends on Your Vibe.

Your hotel location shapes your trip.

• CBD: Maximum convenience for trams and first-day exploration. Can be noisy and lack neighborhood character at night.
• Fitzroy/Collingwood: My personal favorite for a repeat visitor. Immersed in cool cafes, bars, and shops. You'll feel like a local. Slightly less convenient for trams to places like St Kilda.
• Southbank: Glamorous, close to arts venues, great views. Can feel a bit sterile and is pricier.
• St Kilda: Beach vibe, lively at night, penguins on your doorstep. Further from the northern suburbs, and some parts can be a bit rough around the edges.

Getting Around: Tram, Train, Feet.

Melbourne's public transport is pretty good. The Free Tram Zone is a godsend for zipping around the CBD grid. For everything else, your myki card is key. Remember to tap on AND off on trains and buses. On trams, only tap on (and off if you're in Zone 2). Google Maps is scarily accurate for real-time tram and train times. And walk! The best discoveries are between tram stops.

That Famous Melbourne Coffee

It's not a myth. The standard is incredibly high. Rule of thumb: avoid international chains. Look for small places with a La Marzocco machine and a simple menu. My strategy? If I see a queue of locals in work clothes, I join it. You can't go wrong in Fitzroy, Carlton, or the CBD laneways. Don't be shy to ask for a recommendation—baristas are often passionate and proud.

The Weather (The Unpredictable Variable)

You've heard the saying "four seasons in one day"? It's real. Even in summer, a cool change can roll in. My must-pack items, regardless of season: a lightweight, packable waterproof jacket and layers. A sunny morning can turn into a rainy afternoon. Checking the forecast is useful, but always have a back-up indoor plan (a museum, a gallery, a cozy cafe).

Melbourne Itinerary FAQs: Stuff You Actually Want to Know

Let's tackle some specific questions that pop up when you're deep in planning.

The Final Word: Your Melbourne, Your Way

The most important part of any Melbourne tourism itinerary is the word your. This city rewards curiosity and punishes over-scheduling. Use these 3, 5, and 7-day plans as your scaffold. Then, fill in the spaces with what calls to you.

Got lost down a lane you didn't mean to? Great. Spent two hours in a bookstore you stumbled upon? Perfect. Decided to skip a museum to sit by the river with a coffee? That's the Melbourne experience.

The goal isn't to tick off a list.

It's to leave feeling like you got a taste of the city's soul—its creativity, its layers, its sometimes-gritty, always-interesting charm. Pack that jacket, charge your myki, and get ready to explore. You've got this.