Melbourne

Melbourne is a vibrant city with so much to offer, especially for families. Here’s a fun and engaging 2-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and family-friendly activities. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Melbourne

Morning:

• Breakfast at Hardware Société: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this popular café known for its French-inspired dishes. The kids will love the fluffy pancakes or the classic eggs benedict!

• Royal Botanic Gardens: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the stunning Royal Botanic Gardens. The gardens are expansive and perfect for a family walk. Kids can run around, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery. Don’t forget to check out the Children’s Garden, where little ones can explore nature!

Midday:

• Lunch at Southbank: Head over to Southbank for lunch. There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants with views of the Yarra River. Try out the Melbourne institution, Chin Chin, for some delicious Thai food, or grab a quick bite at one of the many casual eateries.

Afternoon:

• Melbourne Aquarium: After lunch, visit the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium. It’s a fantastic place for kids to learn about marine life, and they’ll be mesmerized by the sharks and penguins!

Evening:

• Dinner at Lygon Street: Make your way to Lygon Street, known as Melbourne’s Little Italy. Enjoy a family dinner at one of the many Italian restaurants. Brunetti is a great spot for dessert afterward, with its array of pastries and gelato.

• Hotel Check-in: After dinner, check into your family-friendly hotel. Look for places like the Novotel Melbourne on Collins or Crown Metropol, which offer accessible rooms and family amenities.

Day 2: Culture and Fun

Morning:

• Breakfast at the Hotel: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for the day ahead.

• Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building: Head to the Melbourne Museum, where kids can explore the interactive exhibits, including the Children’s Gallery. The Royal Exhibition Building nearby is also a beautiful sight to see!

Midday:

• Lunch at Queen Victoria Market: Make your way to the iconic Queen Victoria Market. It’s a great place to grab lunch from various food stalls. Try some fresh produce, gourmet sandwiches, or even a classic Aussie meat pie!

Afternoon:

• Federation Square and ACMI: After lunch, stroll over to Federation Square. It’s a cultural precinct with lots of open space for kids to run around. Visit the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) for some interactive exhibits about film and digital culture.

• Ride the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel: For a fantastic view of the city, hop on the Melbourne Star. It’s a fun experience for the whole family, and you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Melbourne!

Evening:

• Dinner at Docklands: Head to Docklands for dinner. There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants along the waterfront. The Boatbuilders Yard is a great option with a relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating.

• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. The kids can enjoy the playgrounds, and you can soak in the beautiful views of the city skyline at night.

Tips:

• Transport: Melbourne has an excellent public transport system. Consider getting a Myki card for easy travel on trams and trains.
• Accessibility: Most attractions are family-friendly and accessible, but it’s always good to check in advance if you have specific needs.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Melbourne! Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! 🌟