9 Things to do in Melbourne City on a Weekend
We love Melbourne for its trendy cafes, infinite food options, and amazing art scene. It’s slogan ‘a twist at every turn’, speaks true of this wonderful city with an endless lineup of things in store.
Whether you’re after a relaxing break after a gruelling work week or just looking to mix things up this weekend, we’ve got your itinerary sorted!
Saturday
Kick off the weekend at the Queen Victoria Market
Image credit: Visit Victoria
Start your Saturday morning right at The Queen Victoria Market aka the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere!
Open from 6am every weekend, you can see, taste, hear, and feel everything that makes Melbourne unique. Grab a quick breakfast and coffee at Market Lane Cafe and stroll through the eclectic mix of stalls selling fashion, local produce, and knick-knacks.
> Located corner of Elizabeth St and Victoria St, Melbourne
Stroll through Melbourne’s Street Art Laneways
Image credit: Unsplash
With an amazing concentration of mural-laiden laneways, it’s no secret that Melbourne is a street art hotspot. But with the daily hustle and bustle of the busy urban life, we often walk past these gems without a second glance.
So why not take the slow lane this weekend and stroll through Melbourne’s most iconic laneways such as Hosier and Blender lanes. Be sure to keep an eye out for new artworks. You might even spot an elusive Banksy piece!
Take a day trip to Luna Park
Image credit: Luna Park
For an action-packed Saturday day out, venture down Luna Park, Melbourne’s most popular historic and seaside destination. From jaw-dropping thrill rides such as the Pharaoh’s Curse, to the nostalgic Carousel, Luna Park has something for the kids and the kids at heart.
>Located at 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC | Luna Park is open 11am to 6pm Mon, Sat & Sun
Wind down and go penguin spotting at St Kilda
Image credit: Ansiona – Shutterstock
After a busy day of exploring Luna Park, chill out and relax at St. Kilda beach. It’s a stellar spot to see the little penguins by the pier! Weekenders frequent the beach for kite and windsurfing, sunbathing, and paddling in the waters.
>Located at St Kilda beach, VIC
Dinner and drinks at Chinatown
Image credit: Visit Victoria
What better way to end the day than with a scrumptious dinner and a few drinks at Melbourne’s vibrant Chinatown.
If you’re looking for dinner that’s a bang for your buck (and your taste buds), we highly recommend ShanDong MaMa– their handmade dumplings are easily one of the best in the area!
> Located at Little Bourke St, Melbourne
Sunday
Brunch at The Grain Store
Image credit: Grain Store
Sunday mornings are made for hearty brunches with friends and family. We especially love The Grain Stores’ specialty coffees, tasty treats and healthy brunch offerings. To top it off, it’s just a short 4-minute walk from Batman’s Hill!
>Located at 517 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
Get your weekend cardio at the Tan
Image credit: Herald Sun
For some post-Sunday brunch exercise, go for a quick jog around The Tan, Melbourne City’s very own version of New York’s Central Park. It is the perfect place to get your weekend cardio in.
> Located at Royal Botanic Gardens
Go on a relaxing cruise along the Yarra River
Image Credit: Melb Cruises
Get some much needed weekend downtime, be inspired by the stunning views of Melbourne’s many riverside attractions, and experience the city from the different perspective with a relaxing boat cruise along the Yarra River.
> Located at Berth 5 Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC
Watch the sunset at the Royal Botanic Gardens
Image credit: Swaine
For the perfect end to your Sunday afternoon, grab a picnic basket, fill it up with goodies and take some friends for a picnic at the Royal Botanic Gardens. This garden oasis offers a welcome escape from the busy city life and a stellar spot to watch the sunset.
>Located at Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne | Open from 7.30am to sunset every day