Melbourne enjoys four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) are generally considered ideal with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (December-February) brings warm weather perfect for beaches and outdoor festivals, though occasionally experiencing heat waves. Winter (June-August) is cooler but offers cozy indoor activities, winter markets, and fewer tourists. Consider planning around major events like the Australian Open (January), Melbourne Food & Wine Festival (March), or Melbourne Cup (November).

We recommend a minimum of 3-4 days to experience Melbourne's highlights, including the city center, a few key neighborhoods, and perhaps one day trip. For a more comprehensive experience that includes exploring diverse neighborhoods, enjoying the food scene, and taking day trips to the Great Ocean Road or Phillip Island, 5-7 days would be ideal. Remember that Melbourne rewards slow exploration, with many hidden gems tucked away in laneways and suburbs that aren't on typical tourist itineraries.

Melbourne has an excellent public transportation system consisting of trams, trains, and buses. The city center features a Free Tram Zone where travel costs nothing. For travel beyond this zone, you'll need a myki card (purchasable at stations, convenience stores, and visitor centers). The tram network is particularly extensive, making it easy to reach most attractions. Trains connect the city to outer suburbs and regional areas. Public transport operates from early morning until around midnight, with limited night services on weekends. We recommend downloading the PTV app for real-time schedules and route planning.

Melbourne offers numerous free attractions and activities. Explore street art in Hosier Lane and surrounding laneways, visit the National Gallery of Victoria's permanent collection, stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens, and enjoy the views from Shrine of Remembrance. The State Library Victoria features impressive architecture and free exhibitions, while Queen Victoria Market offers a lively atmosphere (even if you don't purchase anything). Federation Square hosts many free events and performances throughout the year. Melbourne's beaches, including St Kilda, are free to enjoy, and many neighborhoods like Fitzroy and Carlton are perfect for cost-free exploration.

Melbourne serves as an excellent base for exploring Victoria's diverse attractions. The Great Ocean Road (3-hour drive) features the iconic Twelve Apostles and stunning coastal scenery. Phillip Island (2-hour drive) is famous for its penguin parade and wildlife. The Yarra Valley (1-hour drive) offers world-class wineries and gourmet food. The historic Dandenong Ranges provide beautiful gardens and the beloved Puffing Billy steam train. The Mornington Peninsula combines beaches, hot springs, and wineries just 90 minutes from the city. The gold rush town of Ballarat (90-minute drive) features the immersive Sovereign Hill open-air museum. All these destinations can be visited as day trips, though some (especially the Great Ocean Road) are better enjoyed with an overnight stay.