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Picture of Melbourne VIC, Australia

Travel Guide for
Melbourne

Australia

Temperate, variable weather

Introduction

Melbourne, Australia’s cultural and business capital, sits on the banks of the Yarra River, blending Victorian elegance with sleek modernity. Founded in 1835, it’s a city known for its gold rush past, thriving arts scene, and thriving financial hub in the CBD.

Visiting in late September means crisp, mild spring weather—perfect for business meetings in stylish city venues, rooftop bars, and world-class dining. Treat yourself to luxury hotels, private art tours, and exclusive networking opportunities at sophisticated events and members-only clubs.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleBusiness

Dates19-26 September 2025

BudgetHigh budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturefestivals and eventsgastronomysightseeing and toursoutdoor adventuresnightlife and entertainment

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Picture of Melbourne VIC, Australia

Key Facts

Location

Victoria, Australia

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Religion

Christianity (dominant)

Population

5,078,000

Language

English, Mandarin, Italian

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type I plugs

Time zone

UTCAEST (UTC+10)

Country code

+61

Internet access

Extensive, high-speed broadband

Climate

Temperate, variable weather

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Map

Logistics

Melbourne is most easily reached by air, with Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) welcoming direct international and domestic flights. For a high-budget business trip, consider booking business or first-class cabins with premium airlines. Chauffeur services and VIP airport lounges enhance comfort and convenience upon arrival.

High-speed interstate trains, such as V/Line and NSW TrainLink, connect Melbourne to major Australian cities, with spacious first-class options available. Luxury coach services are also a comfortable alternative, while private helicopter transfers can be arranged for executive travel between Australian cities. Weather in late September is mild and rarely disrupts travel, but pack for cool temperatures and occasional rain.

Weather

Melbourne has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (December–February) are warm to hot, often in the mid-20s °C, while winters (June–August) are cool and sometimes rainy, averaging around 14°C. Spring and autumn are mild but renowned for rapid weather changes, sometimes experiencing “four seasons in one day.”

From September 19 to September 26, you can expect spring conditions: cool mornings, mild afternoons (usually 14–20°C), and occasional showers or gusty winds. It’s a great time for sightseeing, arts festivals, and enjoying Melbourne's vibrant café culture. Extreme weather is unlikely, but it’s wise to pack layers and an umbrella just in case.

Food & Drink

Melbourne’s dining scene is renowned for its diversity and high quality, with influences from Europe and Asia. Business travellers will appreciate fine dining at Attica, contemporary Australian cuisine at Vue de monde, and the fresh local produce at Cumulus Inc. For excellent coffee and pastries, try Patricia or Market Lane Coffee.

Trendy bars like Eau de Vie and rooftop cocktails at Siglo offer sophisticated settings. Don’t miss local specialties like flat white coffee, fresh seafood, and meat pies. Tipping is appreciated (about 10%), but not mandatory. Dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free, are widely accommodated.

The city’s laneways are perfect for impromptu meetings over world-class espresso or unique international bites, and seasonal menus highlight premium Victorian produce. Reservations are recommended at top restaurants.

A picture of Pavlova

Pavlova

Pavlova is a meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, topped with whipped cream and...

Vegemite on toast with a flat white cofee

Vegemite on Toast

Vegemite on Toast is a classic Australian breakfast or snack, featuring toasted bread spread with a thin layer...

A picture of Meat Pie

Meat Pie

Meat Pie is a beloved savory pastry filled with minced meat, gravy, and often accompanied by onions, cooked...

A picture of Barramundi

Barramundi

Barramundi, also known as Asian sea bass, is a delicious and versatile fish often grilled, barbecued, or pan-seared...

A picture of Lamington

Lamington

Lamington is a traditional Australian dessert made from squares of sponge cake coated in a layer of chocolate...

Accommodation

For a high-end business trip, Melbourne’s CBD is ideal. Top hotels like the Crown Towers, Grand Hyatt, and The Langham offer luxury, stellar amenities, and easy access to business districts. Southbank is also excellent, with riverside views and quick connections to major company offices.

Booking.com and Expedia list premium accommodations, but for VIP treatment, book directly with the hotel or use American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts. September often coincides with major events like the AFL Grand Final, so book early to secure your preferred room and avoid elevated rates.

Itinerary

Settle into Melbourne’s dynamic cityscape, focusing on initial business connections while sampling local culture for a balanced introduction to Melbourne life.

Private Business Networking Brunch at Higher Ground

Kick off your Melbourne experience with a networking brunch at Higher Ground, a renowned converted warehouse café. Enjoy gourmet fare in a stylish setting and meet local professionals to start building business connections.

Guided Laneways Art and Coffee Walking Tour

Stroll through Melbourne’s vibrant laneways, guided by an expert to uncover the city’s famous street art while sampling specialty coffee. This tour blends urban culture and local introductions perfectly for your first day.

Sunset Observation at Eureka Skydeck

Experience panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline at the Eureka Skydeck. As daylight fades, see the city come alive and get your bearings for the days ahead. Insider tip: Try the Edge experience for a thrilling glass-floored perspective!

Full-Day Private Australian Wildlife Tour of Phillip Island

Full-Day Private Australian Wildlife Tour of Phillip Island

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

A full day Little Penguins Tour a fantasy escape from big city to create an unforgettable memory like no other thing. Hundreds of little penguins getting out of the water together, waddling toward their burrows while, calling each other and from time to time tumbling over is a real dream. Phillip Island Tour is a 9 hour tour, departing from your place with variable departure time depends on the season. Other great attractions of the tour are: Mauro Sanctuary, to handfeed Kangaroos and got close to Koalas,Woolamai beach,Nobbies the dramatic coastline of Southern Ocean with Wallabies hopping around next to the ocean views

4.9 (14 reviews)

From $377 USD

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Attractions

4.8 (152 reviews)
Small-Group Melbourne Sightseeing Tour with Beach Boxes

Small-Group Melbourne Sightseeing Tour with Beach Boxes

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Our Melbourne City Tour takes you through the wondrous sights of Melbourne. Learn about the city’s fascinating history with your expert Oceania guide. With your small group, take a stroll in the gardens, see some of our world famous attractions like Albert Park Lake (Formula 1), Federation Square. This small-group tour is limited to 11 people, ensuring a more personalized experience.

From $85 USD

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4.9 (536 reviews)
Melbourne Walking Tour: Uncover Hidden Laneway Bars

Melbourne Walking Tour: Uncover Hidden Laneway Bars

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Join a local guide and discover 4 hidden bars in 3 hours. Get access to drink specials available only for our groups. Meet local bartenders and bar owners and hear about what makes them passionate. Get a special, customised map with recommendations for other bars to visit in Melbourne. Whatever you do, come thirsty!  NOTE: The bar list below is indicative only — WE DO NOT VISIT ALL BARS LISTED. The tour includes 4 bars picked from a rotating list of 3 dozen. Which bars we visits depends on our group size, day of the week and special events.

From $52 USD

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3.7 (7 reviews)
4 Hours Sightseeing Small Group Tour in Melbourne City

4 Hours Sightseeing Small Group Tour in Melbourne City

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

You have decided to visit Melbourne, Australia. Why don't you get the best out of Melbourne and explore the highlights of the city while relaxing in our comfortable minivan and listening to its story. Our Melbourne city sightseeing tour will take you around Melbourne to see all aspects and highlights of this vibrant metropolitan city. Melbourne is known as the sports capital of Australia, Arts capital of Australia, Fashion Capital of Australia and named as the most livable city in the world! And we ll tell you why!!

From $59 USD

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4.9 (177 reviews)
Melbourne Sunset Kayaking Experience with Dinner

Melbourne Sunset Kayaking Experience with Dinner

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience stunning views of Melbourne's skyline on this 3 hour kayak paddle along the Yarra River at sunset, led by an experienced, friendly guide. Explore Victoria Harbour and enjoy unique on the water dining, then paddle right into the heart of Melbourne along Southbank and Crown Casino. As the city lights come on, soak up the atmosphere of downtown Melbourne before finishing the tour next to Princes Bridge in the centre of the city.

From $79 USD

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4.7 (58 reviews)
Multicultural Food Tour in Melbourne Markets

Multicultural Food Tour in Melbourne Markets

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Melbourne is cultural melting pot with some, and on this tour, you’ll learn why the city has such a unique vibe. You’ll explore the history of its multicultural heritage by visiting some of the cities oldest markets, many of which are where the local residents still shop. Hear stories on how immigration has been a driving force in Melbourne, and taste a variety of local and international food’s that pair well with these stories. Learn how Melbourne evolved into a foodie destination as you chat with vendors at a range of ethnic eateries. You also get a kick of caffeine by indulging in some famous Melbourne Coffee. The experience is a great way to immersive in local society and discover the stories from its past.

From $50 USD

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4.7 (364 reviews)
Original Melbourne Lanes and Arcades Walking Tour

Original Melbourne Lanes and Arcades Walking Tour

MANUAL

Discover the secrets and hidden treasures of Melbourne’s lanes and arcades on this small-group walking tour. Immerse yourself in the heritage and culture of this cosmopolitan city, see local creatives and innovative retailers. Our team of contemporary guides will bring life to the city as they share information about the characters who shaped the city, and those who shape it today. You'll fall in love with Melbourne and realise how many secrets there are that you would have missed.

From $91 USD

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3.8 (40 reviews)
The Ultimate Melbourne Attractions Pass

The Ultimate Melbourne Attractions Pass

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore Melbourne’s best sights and attractions while saving up to 40% on general admission entry with the Ultimate Melbourne Pass. Soak up breathtaking views from the Melbourne Skydeck, see amazing wild life at Melbourne Zoo, or enjoy a relaxing Yarra River cruise. Whether it’s a city tour, guided walk, museum visit or once-in-a-lifetime experience, the Ultimate Melbourne Pass saves you time by not having to queue for tickets at every attraction. Plus, your pass comes with a handy app so your time in Melbourne is as fun and stress-free as possible. Voted the world’s most liveable city on a number of occasions, Melbourne is regarded by many as the cultural, culinary and sporting capital of Australia. Whatever your tastes and interests, the Ultimate Melbourne Pass is your ticket to explore Melbourne and its surrounds as conveniently and cost effectively as possible.

From $73 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Essential Melbourne Sightseeing Tour

Essential Melbourne Sightseeing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

See Melbourne through the eyes of a local! Discover what makes Melbourne tick as we explore the city on foot, visiting major landmarks and hidden gems. Your tour may include highlights such as: * Flinders St Station * Bourke St Mall * Historic arcades and laneways * Cafes and restaurants * Federation Square * The Yarra River and Birrarung Mar * Street art filled laneways * The Theatre District * Old Treasury Building and Parliament * Chinatown * Manchester Unity Building * Melbourne Town Hall * State Library * Ned Kelly’s armour * Queen Victoria Market (when open) We’ll also take time to grab a coffee at one of the city’s most iconic cafes and sample some local food. While we walk, we’ll talk about Melbourne’s history, it’s sporting culture, great places to eat and fun things to do as well as funny and quirky stories that even many locals don’t know. PLEASE NOTE: A minimum booking of 2 guests is required for this tour.

From $79 USD

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4.4 (26 reviews)
Hobart City Sightseeing Tour including MONA Admission

Hobart City Sightseeing Tour including MONA Admission

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Combine a Hobart city sightseeing tour with a Derwent River cruise and visit to Australia’s newest and most controversial art museum, MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art. See all the city sights on a comprehensive Hobart tour, and be inspired by the MONA’s hugely varied collection -- there’s everything from Neolithic tools to edgy contemporary installations. Enjoy a morning city sightseeing tour and a visit to MONA.

From $92 USD

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4.9 (17 reviews)
Melbourne Art Deco Architecture Tour

Melbourne Art Deco Architecture Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover Melbourne’s fascinating Art Deco architecture on this small-group, 2-hour walking tour. Learn about the history and culture of Melbourne while admiring fine examples of the city’s most famous Art Deco buildings, including the Manchester Unity Building and Majorca Building. Learn fascinating details about the tiles, patterns, and designs that were popular in the 1930s, and discover how the 1934 Centenary of Melbourne, as well as Mayan, Spanish, and Egyptian art, influenced the city’s architecture.

From $56 USD

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4.6 (84 reviews)
Half-Day Sports Lovers Bus Tour of Melbourne with MCG Tour

Half-Day Sports Lovers Bus Tour of Melbourne with MCG Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

City sightseeing with a difference. Visit the venues that host some of Australia’s favourite sporting events. Drive through the Commonwealth Games Athletes Village and around Albert Park, on the Melbourne F1 Grand Prix Circuit. See Melbourne Park, home of the Australian Open. Tour behind the scenes of the MCG, seeing the player change rooms, media centre and stand on the turf of one of the greatest sports stadiums in the world. Lunch with a drink is included. If you would like to choose more than one option, please see our 3/4 Day Sports Lovers Bus Tour of Melbourne or our Ultimate Sports Lovers Bus Tour of Melbourne. A fabulous way to explore Melbourne's sporting culture.

From $176 USD

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4.7 (30 reviews)
Full-Day Sports and Beer Tour of Melbourne with Lunch

Full-Day Sports and Beer Tour of Melbourne with Lunch

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

A full day of Sport & Beer, it doesn't get better than that! Visit the venues that host some of Australia's favourite sporting events. We’ll visit Flemington Racecourse, home of the Melbourne Cup "the race that stops the nation", pass by the Commonwealth Games 2006 Village and drive around the Melbourne Formula 1 Grand Prix Circuit. Then go behind the scenes of the MCG. Enjoy lunch and then experience a small, independant brewery.

From $203 USD

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