Solo Travel / Solo Travel in Australia

Things to Do in Melbourne in 2 Days for Solo Travelers

TL;DR

Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital, is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, bustling laneways, great food, and unique neighborhoods. This 2-day itinerary will guide you through Melbourne’s must-see attractions, from discovering street art and quirky cafes to enjoying beautiful gardens and local markets. Whether you’re into culture, food, shopping, or nightlife, Melbourne offers something for every solo traveler.

Highlight

  • Stroll through Melbourne’s famous laneways, filled with street art, cafes, and boutiques.
  • Relax in the Royal Botanic Gardens and take a picnic by the lake.
  • Explore the National Gallery of Victoria and enjoy world-class art collections.
  • Take a ride on the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel for panoramic views of the city.
  • Indulge in Melbourne’s famous food scene, with a visit to Queen Victoria Market or Chinatown.
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Nearest Airport and Popular Connections

Melbourne is served by Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL), which is 23 kilometers from the city center.

  • Flights from Europe: Round-trip flights from cities like London, Paris, or Berlin to Melbourne generally cost between $800 and $1,500, with layovers in Singapore or Dubai.
  • Flights from North America: Flights from cities like New York or Los Angeles typically range between $1,000 and $1,600, with layovers in Asia or the Middle East.
  • Flights from Asia and Australia: Flights from major Asian cities or Australian cities are typically between $50 and $250, with direct connections to Melbourne.

From Melbourne Tullamarine Airport, take the SkyBus or a taxi to the city center, which takes about 20-30 minutes.

Useful External Resources:

  • Qantas Airways – Book flights to Melbourne.
  • SkyBus – For transport options to and from Melbourne Tullamarine Airport.

Testimonials from Fellow Travelers

Lucy, 27, UK
“Melbourne was everything I hoped for and more! I loved wandering through the laneways, enjoying great coffee at hidden cafes, and seeing amazing street art. It was such an easy city to explore as a solo traveler.”

Oscar, 30, USA
“I had an incredible 2 days in Melbourne! The food scene is out of this world, and the laneways are full of character. I also loved the gardens and taking the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the city.”

About Melbourne

Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and is known for its thriving arts and culture scene, food diversity, and vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you’re exploring its iconic laneways, enjoying the local café culture, or admiring street art, Melbourne is a city that invites exploration and creativity. From Federation Square to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne offers a perfect blend of urban life, cultural landmarks, and outdoor experiences for solo travelers.

Top Attractions for Solo Travelers in Melbourne:

  • Royal Botanic Gardens: Beautiful green spaces offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
  • Melbourne Laneways: Famous for street art, hidden cafes, and boutique shopping.
  • National Gallery of Victoria: A world-class art museum with both Australian and international collections.
  • Queen Victoria Market: A bustling market with fresh produce, gourmet food, and local goods.
  • Melbourne Star Observation Wheel: A giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city.

Where to Sleep in Melbourne

Melbourne has a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some options:

  • The Hostel Melbourne: A social and budget-friendly hostel located in the city center. Prices start from $20 per night.
  • Space Hotel: A stylish, mid-range hostel with great facilities. Prices start from $50 per night.
  • Crown Towers: A luxury hotel with five-star amenities and views of the Yarra River. Prices start from $200 per night.

Pro Tip: Stay near Flinders Street for easy access to major attractions, restaurants, and public transport.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Melbourne has a temperate climate with distinct seasons. The city can experience all four seasons in one day, so it’s always good to be prepared.

  • Summer (December to February): Warm temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), perfect for outdoor activities and visiting gardens and beaches.
  • Winter (June to August): Mild and cool, with temperatures between 6°C and 14°C (43°F to 57°F), ideal for museum visits, art galleries, and cozy cafes.
  • Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November): These transitional seasons are great for sightseeing, with mild weather and fewer tourists.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Melbourne is during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) when the weather is comfortable for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.

Meeting Fellow Travelers

Melbourne is a solo traveler-friendly city with plenty of opportunities to meet others. Here’s how you can connect with fellow travelers during your trip:

  • Hostel Events: Many hostels, such as The Hostel Melbourne, offer group activities like pub crawls, walking tours, and themed nights, which are great for meeting new people.
  • Coffee Shops and Cafes: Melbourne is famous for its café culture. Solo travelers can easily meet others while grabbing coffee at one of the city’s many cozy cafes.
  • Walking Tours: Join a walking tour of Melbourne’s laneways or street art districts to meet like-minded travelers while exploring the city.
  • Nightlife: Melbourne has a vibrant nightlife scene. Head to Fitzroy or Collingwood for bar hopping and live music, or check out Chapel Street for trendy clubs and pubs.

2 Days in Melbourne Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Melbourne

Arrive at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport and take a taxi or SkyBus to your accommodation in the city. After checking in, start your day by exploring Federation Square, the heart of Melbourne’s cultural district, home to art galleries and museums.

  • Budget: Taxi fare from the airport to the city costs around $15-$20.
  • Pro Tip: Check out ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) for free exhibitions about film and television.

Afternoon: Melbourne Laneways and Street Art

Next, head to Hosier Lane and Degraves Street to explore Melbourne’s famous laneways. These hidden alleys are filled with colorful street art, quirky cafes, and boutique shops.

  • Budget: Free to explore.
  • Pro Tip: Stop for a coffee at Degraves Street Café, a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Evening: Dinner at Queen Victoria Market

For dinner, head to Queen Victoria Market, where you can enjoy fresh local produce, street food, and unique products. It’s a great place to try local favorites like dim sum or beyond-the-usual-food-court choices.

  • Budget: Expect to spend $10-$20 for a meal.
  • Pro Tip: Visit the Night Market (Wednesday evenings, seasonal) for street food, live music, and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 2: Culture and Nature Exploration

Morning: Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

Start your second day by visiting the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious art museums. Explore both Australian and international collections, from classical to contemporary art.

  • Budget: Free general admission, but special exhibitions may have a fee.
  • Pro Tip: Make sure to check out the Great Hall, a stunning space featuring a large glass ceiling and a world-class collection.

Afternoon: Royal Botanic Gardens

After lunch, visit the Royal Botanic Gardens for a peaceful stroll. Take in the lush greenery, enjoy a boat ride on the Ornamental Lake, or relax under a tree. It’s an ideal spot for unwinding and soaking in the natural beauty of Melbourne.

  • Budget: Free to explore.
  • Pro Tip: Bring a picnic or grab a bite at the Ponyfish Island Café, located on the Yarra River.

Evening: Ride the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

End your trip with a ride on the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel for spectacular views of the city as the sun sets. It’s a great way to cap off your 2-day visit to Melbourne.

  • Budget: The ride costs around $25.
  • Pro Tip: Book tickets in advance online to skip the queue and save money.

Budgeting for 2 Days in Melbourne

Here’s a breakdown of typical costs for 2 days in Melbourne:

  • Accommodation: $25-$50 per night in a budget hostel or guesthouse
  • Food: $15-$25 per day for local meals
  • Transportation: $10 for public transport (trams, buses, trains)
  • Attractions & Activities: $25-$50 for museum visits, gallery entrance fees, and the Melbourne Star ride
  • Miscellaneous: $10 for drinks, snacks, and souvenirs

Total estimated budget for 2 days in Melbourne: $75-$150, depending on your travel style.

Time to Reflect

As your 2-day adventure in Melbourne comes to a close, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of vibrant street art, lush gardens, and a city full of culture. Whether you spent your days exploring the laneways, visiting museums, or relaxing in gardens, Melbourne offers a perfect blend of urban excitement and nature for solo travelers.

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