Free Joys: What To Do In This UNESCO City of Literature

Enjoy many activities that cost 0 dollars when visiting Melbourne

Danah Gutierrez

<p><strong>Melbourne</strong>, <strong>Australia</strong>, is a city that exudes charm, culture, and an unmistakable coolness. The vibrant metropolis is a popular global destination where you can immerse yourself in art, enjoy diverse flavors, and explore beautiful landscapes—all without spending a dime. Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget or a savvy traveler looking to experience the best without breaking the bank, here are some top free activities to enjoy in Melbourne.</p><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/75bc5bce-5b78-4aa2-a24f-d6d9e248836f_20240627_134025.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">My first time in Melbourne. This place is both buzzing and calming—a city of literature, arts, and culture  (not to mention, delicious coffee!)</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>1. Unplug &amp; Reconnect with Nature at the Royal Botanic Gardens</strong></div><p>Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens. Spanning 94 acres, these gardens are a tranquil escape from the city&#x27;s hustle and bustle. With over 8,500 species of plants, lush lawns, and serene lakes, it&#x27;s the perfect spot for a morning walk, a quiet picnic, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature. </p><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/63d40025-e5db-44a0-9c04-5c6c01195c36_20240627_135640.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><p>We brought our picnic mat and a few nibbles that were shared with the ducks and other birds along the pond. I took my shoes off, did some grounding, and inhaled the serene joy the lush environment embraced us in. </p><div><br/></div><div><strong>2. Explore the Laneways and Street Art</strong></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/632b9364-7cfc-4d18-831f-c7c6d307aafa_20240627_133825.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Took a short stroll inside Hosier Lane, with graffiti murals and other artworks displayed on the walls</span></span></span></div><p>Melbourne’s laneways are famous for their vibrant street art. Take a self-guided tour through Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, and Duckboard Place to marvel at ever-changing murals by local and international artists. Each alleyway tells its own story through colorful and thought-provoking artwork, making it a living, breathing gallery. It’s a great spot for artsy portraits and group pictures.</p><div><strong><br/></strong></div><div><strong>3. Catch Sunsets at St. Kilda Beach</strong></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/157d7071-1cac-49ba-95c0-0f5a7c335eea_20240627_123784.png" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Melbourne sunsets are glorious, with the dusk skies colored with blues and golds </span></span></span></div><p>No trip to Melbourne is complete without a visit to St. Kilda Beach. Just a short tram ride from the city center, this iconic beach offers stunning views of Port Phillip Bay. Take a walk along the pier, watch the sunset, or simply relax on the sandy shore. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the adorable little penguins that call St. Kilda home.</p><div><strong><br/></strong></div><div><strong>4. Discover the Queen Victoria Market</strong></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/76c75941-b923-4b95-b3f9-0a49c63049e2_20240627_120425.png" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Taste free samples of fresh, quality produce and other local products at the busy and lively Queen Victoria Market</span></span></span></div><p>Queen Victoria Market is not just a place to shop; it’s a cultural experience. While you might be tempted to splurge on gourmet treats and unique souvenirs, there’s plenty to enjoy without opening your wallet. Wander through the vibrant stalls, soak up the lively atmosphere, and enjoy free samples of local produce. On Wednesdays, the Night Market offers live music, street performers, and a festive ambiance.</p><div><strong><br/></strong></div><div><strong>5. Enjoy Free Live Music</strong></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/81e293f3-af35-4efc-8bb4-b8f81a027de7_20240627_142656.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Chanced upon a big band performance by their state library and enjoyed every minute of it</span></span></span></div><p>Melbourne’s music scene is legendary, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it. Many bars, pubs, and cafes offer free live music throughout the week. We were lucky to have chanced upon a big band performance by the State Library of Victoria. My friend and I danced and grooved in our seats with other locals and tourists marveling at the free entertainment before us. It was such a memorable experience.</p><div><strong><br/></strong></div><div><strong>6. Take a Free Walking Tour</strong><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/41964b0d-122c-4d93-9a35-67410ac639a6_img_20240627_143935_149.jpeg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">A wise travel idea to thoroughly explore Melbourne: join a free walking tour! (Image from I’m Free Walking Tours website)</span></span></span></div><p>Get to know Melbourne’s rich history and vibrant culture with a free walking tour. Companies like <a href="https://imfree.tours/melbourne/sights/" target="_blank">I’m Free Walking Tours</a> offer comprehensive tours led by knowledgeable local guides. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s hidden gems, historic landmarks, and local legends in a short amount of time. You can also choose between three different tours: 1) Melbourne Sights which covers landmark buildings, scenic gardens, and events; 2) Culture Capital which covers the city’s best hidden laneways, arcades, and architecture, and 3) Private Tours that is customizable to your preference and interests. While the tour is free, tips are appreciated if you enjoyed the journey. </p><div><br/></div><p>Note: Put on your most comfortable walking shoes since the walking tour has a 2.5 to 3-hour duration with frequent stops in between.</p><div><strong><br/></strong></div><div><strong>7. People-watch in Federation Square</strong></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/6b56f983-de42-4bfb-89e3-04ec27eead26_20240627_134318.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><p>Federation Square is the heart of Melbourne and a hub of activity. It’s a great place to people-watch, enjoy public art installations, or catch free events and performances that regularly take place. The square is also home to the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, where you can explore an extensive collection of Australian art at no cost.</p><div><br/></div><p>Fortunately, I was able to catch one of their most sought-after city festivals, Rising. The projection mapping art around the square was so awesome to marvel at during the nighttime. </p><div><strong><br/></strong></div><div><strong>8. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)</strong></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/d64f3fec-84f8-41ef-8cdc-ba6fbfadbbb1_20240627_133923.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Melbourne takes their art seriously, and shares it with the rest of the world.</span></span></span></div><p>Art lovers will find a haven at the National Gallery of Victoria, Australia&#x27;s oldest and most visited art museum. Admission to the NGV’s permanent collection is free, offering access to works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso, as well as impressive contemporary pieces. The gallery also hosts regular free events and exhibitions, so there’s always something new to discover.</p><div><strong><br/></strong></div><div><strong>9. Visit the State Library of Victoria</strong><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/cd9aac49-c82d-40da-8086-fb7e0a7b319a_img_9514.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">The State Library Victoria’s timeless architecture carries grandeur that is not to be missed</span></span></span></div><p>The State Library of Victoria is not just a library; it’s an architectural marvel and a treasure trove of history. Explore the beautiful La Trobe Reading Room, wander through the galleries, and enjoy free exhibitions that showcase the library’s extensive collection of rare books, artworks, and historical artifacts. If you’re a traveling remote freelancer like me, it’s the best place to focus and zone in on work, with all the breathtaking architecture that surrounds you. </p><div><br/></div><p>***</p><div><br/></div><p>Melbourne is a city that embraces the free-spirited traveler. With its various options of free activities, you can experience the best this dynamic city has to offer without spending a cent. So pack your bags, grab your walking shoes, and get ready to discover the wonders of Melbourne—one free adventure at a time.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Related Story: </strong><a href="/travel/itineraries/filipino-films-locations-in-hong-kong-tour/38399" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rediscover Hong Kong Through The Filming Locations of These Filipino Movies</a></div><div><strong>Related Story: </strong><a href="/travel/itineraries/sapa-vietnam-itinerary-2024/37779" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">This Quaint Town in Northwestern Vietnam Is Charming Travelers</a></div>

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Free Joys: What To Do In This UNESCO City of Literature

Free Joys: What To Do In This UNESCO City of Literature

Danah Gutierrez

Published Jul 12, 2024 07:40 PM PHT

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Updated Jul 12, 2024 09:37 PM PHT

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