Melbourne is a cosmopolitan city with a huge mix of activities from cultural events to outdoor parks, beaches and sport as well as plenty of day trip options to get a taste of Australia. Melbourne is also a foodie heaven with a thriving café culture along with street art making it a great cultural city break that kids can enjoy too.
Best time to visit Melbourne
Given its location on Australia’s south coast, Melbourne is the country’s most seasonal city, experiencing hot summers through to cold winters. You can visit throughout the year but spring (September to December) and autumn (March through to May) are the best months where you’re most likely to encounter sunshine but not stifling heat.
- Taking advantage of the tail-end of summer sun, March is our favourite month with lots of festivities around town including Moomba Festival and the Australian Grand Prix.
- Come in September to see this sports-mad city at it’s best and the Aussie Rules Grand Final – or January to catch the Australian Open tennis action.
Click here to read more on what to expect in Melbourne throughout the year
How to get around Melbourne
The Melbourne CBD is set up in a grid system which is great for navigation and easy to get around, but things get a little more complex as you head out of town.
- Trams in the CBD are free! But get yourself a Myki card for using public transport further out of town.
- Taxis and Uber are popular for short trips across town where public transport doesn’t always directly connect.
- Hiring a car is a great way to see more of outer Melbourne.
Read more on how to get from the airport with kids and how to get around greater Melbourne
Where to stay in Melbourne with kids
Given the location of popular attractions, most visitors will stay in the CBD or the immediately surrounding suburbs such as Docklands, East Melbourne and Southbank. Beachside, St Kilda is also popular but still quite close to the city connected by light rail. Watch out for little extras that may not be included in your accommodation costs, such as in-room wifi and parking.
Click here to see our top picks for family-friendly accommodation in Melbourne
Top things to do in Melbourne with kids
Well known as the cultural and sporting capital of Australia, there is really something in Melbourne to suit everyone. The city has extensive parklands for exploring by foot or bike, as well as a great range of galleries and museums, through to the dining and shopping culture. Nature lovers wont be disappointed with a selection of some of the world’s best sanctuaries and zoos, an absolute must for all visitors.
Click here to see all our favourite things to do in Melbourne with kids
What to pack for Melbourne
Melbourne is one of those cities you can almost guarantee you’ll experience 4 seasons in one day! For that reason, packing layers to wear is essential and you will need your umbrella as much as your sunglasses and sunscreen pretty much year round.
Click here to read our full packing list for Melbourne.
Plan the perfect family holiday in Australia with our family guide to visiting Melbourne with kids