What can you do in Melbourne for 3 days?

Melbourne easily tops the list as Australia’s cultural and sporting centre.

From the elegant, cafe-lined laneways of the CBD, across the Yarra to the stunning National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and through the lush Botanical Gardens to the majestic MCG, Melbourne is home to an awesome array of things to see and do.

The only problem with knowing what you can do in Melbourne for three days is knowing that three days simply isn’t long enough to enjoy this vibrant metropolis.

But, if it’s all the time you have, try this sample itinerary.

• Day one: enjoy world class coffee, a masterpiece and a footy game in one day

  Melbourne is a city that refuses to hibernate in winter. Given that our hometown sport, Australian Rules Football (AFL), is played in the winter months, it’s no surprise that you will see the city teeming with crowds and revellers even on chillier July nights.

  Start the day by enjoying a coffee and cake at one of the CBD’s famed alleyways, before heading over to the NGV to take in the winter exhibitions (typically filled with renowned masterpieces) before strolling along the Yarra River and onto the MCG, where you can take in the thrill and fanfare of an AFL game.

• Day two: Peruse markets, gardens & see some live music

  Melbourne’s iconic Queen Victoria Market has been operating since 1878 and has never stopped providing fresh fruit, veggies and other locally sourced produce to Melburnians. But don’t think this is simply a place for people to do their weekly shop: the market is a landmark in itself, and an awesome place to try different delights from across the globe. Try the legendary hot jam doughnut at the American Doughnut Kitchen, delightful dim sim at the renowned South Melbourne Dim Sims booth or delicious, spice-laden pastry at The Borek Shop.

  Afterwards, peruse the lush Flagstaff Gardens, just a stone’s throw from the market, before heading over to one of the city’s legendary rock venues, jazz bars or nightclubs for a spot of live music.

• Day three: take a tour to the Great Ocean Road

  If you’re looking to enjoy Melbourne for its cultural activities as well as a dash of stunning nature, then the Great Ocean Road is the perfect day trip. Located just a one and a half hour drive from Melbourne’s CBD, the Great Ocean Road offers spectacular beaches and vibrant rainforests, charming seaside towns and fresh produce in abundance. It’s the perfect way to end your amazing Melbourne adventure.

Related article: Things to take on your Great Ocean Road tour!