Ah, Melbourne - a glorious hotspot of vibrant culture and scenic views. Touring around the city seems like an excellent idea, but with plenty of things to do, budget might be a little too tight. Don’t fret, though, because there are plenty of free and cheap things to do in Melbourne that won’t put a hole in your wallet.
Most cultural establishments such as museums and galleries are free of charge, and there are dozens of cheap activities in Melbourne that are under $30. We’ve found the best free and cheap things to do in Melbourne so you can have an exciting time in the city! From cultural adventures to thrilling activities, we got your back.
Get more bang for your buck with these free places you can go to and cheap things to do in Melbourne:
- National Gallery Victoria - FREE
- ACMI - FREE
- Queen Victoria Market - FREE
- State Library of Victoria- FREE
- Royal Botanic Gardens - FREE
- Melbourne Museum - FREE
- Eureka Skydeck - only $19!
- Williamstown Ferry Sightseeing Cruise - only $24!
- Otway Fly Treetops Walk - only $20!
- Melbourne Sports Lovers Tours - only $18!
- Yarra River Sightseeing Cruise - only $27!
1. National Gallery of Victoria - FREE
Enjoy different exhibits at NGV. Image credits: @aestheticasparagus
For art folks, a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria should be on top of your list of free things to do in Melbourne!
Founded in 1861, it is Australia’s oldest museum and has two locations. The one on Fed Square is considered as the home of Australian art and features both Indigenous and non-Indigenous art pieces. If you want to see more international art, head to the NGV at St Kilda Road, which houses art pieces from different parts of the world.
Note: NGV is closed to the public from May 28, 2021, following the latest restrictions from the Victorian government.
2. ACMI - FREE
Immerse yourself in the world of film, TV, and video games at ACMI. Image credits: @acmionline
Cinephiles would absolutely adore a visit to ACMI, and guess what? You don’t have to spend a dime because it is one of the free things you can do in Melbourne!
Discover the world of film, TV, and video games at ACMI, and check out their featured exhibits dedicated to well-loved movies, as well as hidden gems of the silver screen. Plus, it has an in-house cinema where you can watch feature films! General entry is free, but some talks and programmes may require a fee.
3. Queen Victoria Market - FREE
Get excellent food and the best deals at Queen Victoria Market. Image credits: @vicmarket
Queen Victoria Market is a Mecca for shoppers - with its collection of specialty stalls filled with excellent street food and handmade trinkets. Don’t fret about your budget! This Melbourne icon holds tons of fresh, local produce and local handicrafts that are cheaper than anywhere else.
Entry to Queen Victoria Market is absolutely free and offers you one of the best shopping experiences in Melbourne!
4. State Library Victoria - FREE
State Library Victoria’s interiors are a sight to behold! Image credits: @sashaaness
Venture into the magical world of books at State Library Victoria, Australia’s oldest public library!
Aside from checking out the library’s wide collection, there are tons of free things to do in this Melbourne landmark. Admire the majestic architecture of this 19th-century building, as well as its grand interiors. You can also partake in some of the free workshops available or check out various galleries. Make sure to take a peek at Ned Kelly's complete armour!
5. Royal Botanic Gardens - FREE
Autumn strolls are the best at Royal Botanic Gardens. Image credits: @royalbotanicgardensvic
Learn more about local flora and fauna at the Royal Botanic Gardens! Venture into 38 hectares of scenic landscape and cast your eyes upon several rare and common plant species such as camellias, cacti, and other plants from different parts of Australia.
They also have a Seek & Find Nature Cards activity where kids can have fun exploring as they search for different plants around the garden.
6. Melbourne Museum - FREE
Kids will definitely enjoy Melbourne Museum’s interactive exhibits! Image credits: @grumpysailor_
Explore Australia’s natural and cultural heritage when you visit Melbourne Museum. This cultural institution holds different exhibitions, talks, and workshops on culture, history, and science.
While some museum activities may pose a fee, there are other free things to do in Melbourne Museum such as most of their exhibits, Auslan tours, Milarri Garden Trail, and learning labs.
Note: Melbourne Museum is closed to the public until further notice and will reopen once current restrictions are lifted.
7. Eureka Skydeck - only $19!
See the beauty of Melbourne 88 floors above the ground! Image credits: @darisgopie
On a budget during your Melbourne trip? What if we tell you that you can get a million-dollar view without spending more than $30? Head to Eureka Skydeck, where you can see the best view of Melbourne!
Rise up 285 metres above the ground or 88 floors in an instant aboard the Southern Hemisphere’s fastest elevator! Cast your eyes upon the breathtaking sights of the marvellous city from the highest vantage point in the city.
8. Williamstown Ferry Sightseeing Cruise - only $24!
Travel to Williamstown on a ferry!
This sightseeing cruise is one of the cheap things to do in Melbourne if you want to visit Williamstown.
Hop aboard a comfortable ferry and embark on a one-hour cruise going to the charming city. You can admire several Melbourne attractions along the way, such as Southgate Arts & Leisure Precinct, Flinders Street Station, and Crown Casino. When you arrive at Williamstown, a picturesque suburb awaits you as you explore the colonial settlement and scenic gardens.
9. Otway Fly Treetops Walk - only $20!
Marvel at one of Australia’s majestic rainforests at Otway Fly Treetop Walk! Image credits: @twogoooodboys
Have a fun nature adventure without splurging your budget in Melbourne with this treetop walk at Otway Fly!
View the Aussie rainforest up close when you walk along the 600-metre Treetop Walk 30 metres above the ground. If you’re up for a challenge, you can reach up to 47 metres above the ground on the Spiral Tower, where you can admire the lush rainforest canopy. We recommend you wear light clothing and bring a poncho or an umbrella when you visit Otway Fly.
10. Melbourne Sports Lovers Tours - only $18!
Don’t miss this chance to visit iconic sporting arenas in Melbourne!
This Melbourne Sports Lovers tour is one of the cheapest things to do in Melbourne if you’re a sports fan!
With this affordable tour package, you get to visit and find out insider secrets about iconic stadiums and arenas, such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the Rod Laver Arena, and the Etihad Stadium - even the Olympic grounds that are home to Melbourne's teams! You can also add in behind-the-scenes access to the Melbourne Cricket Ground or Australian Sports Museum if you have more left in your Melbourne budget!
11. Yarra River Sightseeing Cruise - only $27!
Cruise along the calm Yarra River and see the best of Melbourne! Image credits: @maddisonemily_b
Hop aboard a 1 to 2-hour scenic cruise along Yarra River by Melbourne River Cruises, and see Melbourne from a whole different perspective!
You may choose from 3 routes - each with different stops and highlights. The Ports & Docklands Cruise takes you to the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, the Bolte Bridge & Westgate Bridge, Docklands and Docklands Stadium, among others. For a visit to Royal Botanic Gardens and Federation Square, choose the River Gardens Cruise.
If you want to visit them all, pick the 2-hour Melbourne Highlights Tour!
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