Day 1 in Melbourne

Welcome to Melbourne! Upon arrival at the airport, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do!

We suggest you get acquainted with the city and take the free City Circle Tram, an iconic Melbourne form of transportation that has been around for centuries. The tram will take you around the city where you can hop off at many of the sights and attractions. Do some shopping at the Queen Victoria Market, grab some lunch at one of the many eateries situated around the Crown Casino Complex and enjoy a stroll along the river. Make your way to Federation Square where you can browse the museums and galleries.

Then head back down to the river and take a leisurely cruise down the Yarra, enjoy the sights and surroundings of the city. Visit the beautiful Botanic Gardens on the south bank of the River, these gardens are filled with vibrant plants, lush green flora, and a lake. Visit the Terrace Tearooms on site for some refreshment and a pastry.

Make your way to the Shrine of Remembrance, the largest war memorial in Australia; if you head there before 5 pm you will be able to witness the symbolic daily ceremony of taking down the flags.

On you first evening in the city, visit the Eureka Tower and travel up to the observation deck `Skydeck` on the 88th floor. Here you will be able to witness the city lit up below with some breathtaking views. Here you will find a restaurant where you can enjoy some dinner before retiring for the night.

Day 2 in Melbourne

Begin your day with a visit to the Fitzroy Gardens, wander around the walking paths of these beautifully landscaped gardens, large trees, and flower beds. See the Fairy tree and the tidy model Tudor Village, make your way to Captain Cook`s Cottage and see the quaint cottage that was once home to Cook`s parents, the house was brought over from England in 1978 re-built brick by brick and even features original English ivy growing up the exterior walls. Grab something to eat at The Pavillion restaurant featured on-site in the Gardens.

Close by is St Patrick`s Cathedral, the mother church of the Catholic Archdiocese of the city of Melbourne. A breathtaking church with a Gothic-Revival design built with bluestone and sandstone featuring a spectacular interior. It is one of the oldest and tallest churches in Australia.

Afterward, head to the Bourke Street Mall, enjoy some lunch and retail therapy. This major shopping precinct is the most famous feature in the area featuring pedestrian and tram only streets with major department stores, restaurants, and entertainment.

For the rest of your afternoon visit St Kilda, Melbourne`s seaside neighborhood, relax at the beach, enjoy some beachside activities, take a walk along the palm-lined esplanade or take a dip at the St Kilda Sea Baths.

Alternatively, you could visit Luna Park, Melbourne`s amusement park established in 1912, have a fun filled family day on the roller coasters.

Visit Fitzroy Street in St Kilda, do some window shopping at the beautiful boutiques that line the street, sit back and enjoy a meal at one of the many outdoor cafes and restaurants and take in the fun, bohemian, artsy atmosphere that is Fitzroy. Grab a pastry and a coffee on Acland Street at one of the cafes to end your evening.

Day 3 in Melbourne

Start your day early today with a day trip out to Port Campbell National Park, situated 120 miles southwest of Melbourne. Arrange a guided tour or drive on the Great Ocean Road which is one of the most scenic drives in Australia. This spectacular stretch of coastline provides dramatic limestone cliffs including the iconic Twelve Apostles, amazing wave-sculpted rock formations. The 19th-century shipwreck Loch Ard Gorge, the London Arch and The Grotto. The park is situated on 4,300 acres of land featuring wildlife and natural beauty, enjoy the surroundings and take the Port Campbell Discovery Walk.

Head back to the city after your long day out on the road, stop at one of the many rooftop bars and enjoy a few drinks while witnessing a magnificent Melbourne sunset. The laneways of the city offer a myriad of restaurants to choose from offering a wide variety of international cuisines to choose from. Some popular areas for dining are Chinatown, Fitzroy, and Carlton.

Additional Days in Melbourne

If you are able to spend additional days in Melbourne and you are a big sports fan be sure to visit the Melbourne Cricket Grounds, this large stadium is home to the Australia Rules Football and the Melbourne Cricket Club. Plan ahead and purchase tickets to watch a game.

Take a day trip to the Yarra Valley home to some of the area`s finest wineries, take a wine tasting tour, see the vineyards and visit the areas spectacular restaurants and national parks. The Valley is a popular place to escape for a weekend getaway.

Plan a day trip to the SEA LIFE Aquarium or the Melbourne Zoo, both great places to enjoy a family day out and see the animals of Australia.

Visit the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel providing commentary on the area and its attractions. The wheel is stunning in both day and nighttime.

Your Last Day in Melbourne

Depart from your hotel to the airport for your return flight home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer to the airport, if so the representative will meet you at your hotel with plenty of time to get you to the airport for your flight out.