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11-Day Melbourne Pleasure Trip: Laneways, Rooftops, Beaches & Day Trips (2025-12-01 to 2025-12-11)

Viewed by 203 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Laneways

Melbourne, Australia on December 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Classic Melbourne brunch spot near the CBD known for French-influenced breakfasts and excellent coffee; arrive early to avoid queues. Check opening hours (usually 8:00am) and expect a short wait on weekends.
AUD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk the CBD laneways (Hosier Lane, Degraves St, Centre Place)

Explore Melbourne’s famous street art, cafés and arcades—perfect orientation for first-time visitors and great photo ops; lanes are public and free to visit (open all day).
AUD0, 1h30m

11:15am

State Library of Victoria & La Trobe Reading Room

Historic library with grand reading room and free exhibitions; typically open 10:00am–6:00pm, check for special closures.
AUD0, 45m

12:15pm

Lunch at Chin Chin (CBD) or similar modern Asian

Popular, lively Southeast Asian restaurant—great for casual group meals; reservations recommended and it can be busy at peak times (open mid-day onwards).
AUD40, 1h15m

2:00pm

ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) at Federation Square

Exhibitions on film, TV and digital culture; generally open 10:00am–5:00pm and many exhibits are free but special shows may charge admission.
AUD0, 1h30m

4:00pm

Riverside stroll on Southbank & Eureka Skydeck

Enjoy views along the Yarra and head up to Eureka Skydeck for a city panorama—Skydeck usually open 10:00am–10:00pm; book ahead for sunset slots.
AUD25, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Cumulus Inc.

Contemporary all‑day dining with share plates and an excellent wine list, ideal for a stylish first-night meal; reservations recommended (opens evenings).
AUD70, 1h30m

9:00pm

Rooftop drinks at Rooftop Bar (CBD) or Siglo

Finish with skyline cocktails—many rooftops close around midnight; check each rooftop’s closing time and book a table if necessary.
AUD18, 1h30m

Day 2: Arts & Southbank

Melbourne, Australia on December 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Industry Beans (Fitzroy) or Market Lane

Specialty coffee and modern brunch fare—great start before heading to the arts precinct; open from around 8:00am on weekdays.
AUD22, 1h0m

10:00am

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV International)

Major international and Australian art collection; NGV International usually open 10:00am–5:00pm (late nights on some days); check special exhibition prices.
AUD0, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Southbank Promenade (River-facing cafes)

Riverside dining options with views across the Yarra—many venues open from late morning through evening; casual selection suits varied tastes.
AUD35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Relax through 38 hectares of plant collections and lakes; gardens are typically open 7:30am–sunset and entry is free, special guided tours may cost extra.
AUD0, 1h45m

4:30pm

Shrine of Remembrance & Kings Domain

Historic memorial with city views from the balcony—open 10:00am–5:00pm generally; informative exhibits and quiet grounds to explore.
AUD0, 45m

6:30pm

Dinner at Vue de Monde (book in advance)

Melbourne’s premium fine-dining choice with skyline views—dress code and reservations required; check opening and tasting-menu availability.
AUD295, 2h30m

9:30pm

Drinks at The Lui Bar or Arbory Bar (seasonal hours)

Sophisticated cocktails or a relaxed riverside beer—opening and closing times vary seasonally so confirm ahead for late-night plans.
AUD20, 1h30m

Day 3: Market & Shopping

Melbourne, Australia on December 3, 2025

7:30am

Queen Victoria Market (QVM) morning visit

Iconic open-air market for fresh produce, souvenirs and street food—usually open Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat and Sun (closed Mon & Wed), mornings are best for peak stalls.
AUD0, 2h0m

10:00am

Brunch at Queen Victoria Market's food precinct

Try local produce and specialty coffee while you continue exploring—individual stall prices vary; market stalls often open from early morning to mid-afternoon.
AUD18, 1h0m

12:00pm

Bourke Street Mall & Emporium Melbourne shopping

Central city shopping for both international brands and local boutiques—stores typically open 9:30am–5:30pm, extended hours on some nights.
AUD0, 2h0m

2:30pm

Lunch in Chinatown (Dainty Sichuan or Flower Drum if booked)

Vibrant Chinatown with long-standing restaurants and noodle houses; popular places fill up so either go early or reserve ahead.
AUD30, 1h0m

4:00pm

Explore Melbourne Central & Block Arcade

Heritage arcades and modern malls combine for unique shopping and hidden cafes; arcades are open during standard retail hours.
AUD0, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Tipo 00 or Supernormal (reserve)

Italian pasta bar or modern Asian-inspired plates—both are popular and capture Melbourne’s dining scene; book if possible and check opening hours.
AUD45, 1h30m

9:30pm

Rooftop night at Naked in the Sky (Fitzroy)

Trendy rooftop bar with relaxed vibes and inner-north views; rooftop seasonal hours vary so confirm before heading over.
AUD22, 1h30m

Day 4: Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road (day trip from Melbourne) on December 4, 2025

6:30am

Depart for Great Ocean Road (self-drive or guided tour)

Early departure to maximize stops like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and coastal lookouts; guided tours typically leave 6:30am–7:30am and return late evening.
AUD150, 12h0m

9:30am

Stop at Torquay & Bells Beach

Scenic surf town and famous surf break—quick coffee stop and coastal views; shops open mid-morning, beaches are open all day.
AUD0, 30m

12:30pm

Lunch in Lorne or Apollo Bay

Coastal seafood or casual café options with harbour views—hours vary but lunchtime service is standard in tourist towns.
AUD30, 1h0m

3:30pm

Twelve Apostles viewpoint at Sunset (or late afternoon)

Iconic limestone stacks—best late afternoon for lighting; visitor facilities open during daylight but boardwalks can be windy so bring layers.
AUD0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Return to Melbourne

Arrive back in the city late evening; expect a long but hugely rewarding day—grab a late snack or relaxed dinner if you’re back early.
AUD0, 1h0m

Day 5: Fitzroy & Street Art

Fitzroy, Melbourne, Australia on December 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Corner or Proud Mary (Collingwood)

Specialty coffee roaster and brunch spot ideal for food-lovers; open from around 7:30–8:00am, getting busier on weekends.
AUD22, 1h0m

10:00am

Street art walk in Fitzroy & Collingwood (Rose Street & surrounds)

Discover large-scale murals, independent galleries and eclectic boutiques—public spaces are open to explore any time, but guided walks can add context.
AUD0, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Cutler & Co. or local Brunswick Street cafe

Choice of fine dining or relaxed neighbourhood eateries—book for Cutler & Co. or enjoy casual options on Brunswick Street.
AUD45, 1h0m

2:00pm

Shop vintage & independent designers

Fitzroy is Melbourne’s hub for vintage stores and indie labels—stores usually open 10:00am–5:00pm with some late-night openings on Thursdays.
AUD0, 1h30m

5:30pm

Return to CBD & rest

Time to freshen up before evening plans — good moment for a short nap or to sort tickets for upcoming day trips.
AUD0, 1h0m

8:00pm

Rooftop dinner at The Emerson (nightclub & rooftop depending)

Combine dinner with high-energy nightlife at one of the city’s rooftop venues—check event listings and rooftop opening/nightclub start times.
AUD60, 2h0m

Day 6: Yarra Valley Wineries

Yarra Valley (day trip from Melbourne) on December 6, 2025

8:00am

Depart for Yarra Valley (self-drive or guided tour)

Renowned wine region an hour from the city—tours usually depart early and include tastings at 2–4 vineyards; book tastings ahead for peak season.
AUD160, 9h0m

10:00am

Wine tasting at Domaine Chandon or Oakridge

Sparkling and cool-climate wines with vineyard views; cellar doors usually open 10:00am–5:00pm but confirm for specific wineries.
AUD25, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at a winery restaurant (e.g., Innocent Bystander)

Casual gourmet meals paired with local wines—winery restaurants can be busy so reserve a table for midday service.
AUD45, 1h15m

3:00pm

Visit Healesville Sanctuary (optional) or more cellar doors

Healesville Sanctuary showcases native Australian wildlife; open typically 9:00am–5:00pm and is an easy add-on for nature lovers.
AUD36, 1h30m

6:00pm

Return to Melbourne; dinner near hotel

Relax back in the city—choose a relaxed neighbourhood bistro for a quieter evening after a full day tasting wines.
AUD40, 1h30m

Day 7: Sports & Culture

Melbourne, Australia on December 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Higher Ground

Iconic Melbourne brunch spot in the CBD with impressive interiors and a varied menu—best to arrive early to avoid wait times.
AUD28, 1h0m

9:30am

MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) tour & National Sports Museum

Explore one of the world’s great sporting stadiums with behind-the-scenes tours; tours usually start morning through afternoon — book online for preferred times.
AUD33, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Richmond eateries (around the MCG)

Casual pubs and bistros catering to sports crowds—open for lunch and a good spot to soak in local footy culture during season.
AUD30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit ACMI (if missed) or Melbourne Museum (Carlton)

Interactive cultural experiences—Melbourne Museum usually open 10:00am–5:00pm and has major exhibitions and the IMAX nearby (check IMAX showtimes).
AUD20, 1h30m

5:30pm

Early dinner in Chinatown or Little Bourke St

Choose from noodle bars to refined Cantonese—perfect pre-theatre or pre-nightlife meal; many venues open until late.
AUD35, 1h0m

8:00pm

Catch live music at Corner Hotel or a theatre show

Melbourne has a lively live-music scene—venues have varying start times and ticketed entry so check schedules and book ahead for popular acts.
AUD25, 2h30m

Day 8: Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula, Australia on December 8, 2025

8:00am

Drive to Mornington Peninsula (Peninsula Hot Springs)

Relaxing thermal pools and spa experiences—book sessions in advance, general hours often from 9:00am to late afternoon/early evening depending on season.
AUD75, 5h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at local seaside cafe in Sorrento or Mornington

Seafood and coastal dining with harbour or beach views—lunchtime service is standard; great to pair with a short coastal walk.
AUD35, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore coastal towns (Sorrento, Portsea) and beaches

Scenic cliffs, boutique shops and quiet beaches—perfect for afternoon walks and photos, public access beaches open all day.
AUD0, 1h30m

5:30pm

Return to Melbourne; light dinner

Back in the city for a relaxed evening—try a neighbourhood trattoria for a low-key finish to a spa day.
AUD40, 1h0m

Day 9: St Kilda & Brighton

St Kilda & Brighton, Australia on December 9, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Acland Street, St Kilda (cakes & cafes)

St Kilda’s cafe strip is famous for bakeries and seaside vibes—many bakeries open early and stay open through the morning.
AUD20, 1h0m

10:00am

Walk St Kilda Pier & visit Luna Park

Historic amusement park and pier with penguin colony at the pier’s breakwater—Luna Park rides and arcade operate seasonally so check opening times (often 11:00am onwards).
AUD20, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Republica (beachfront) or local fish & chips

Relaxed beachfront dining with fresh seafood options—great spot for leisurely lunch and people-watching.
AUD30, 1h0m

2:30pm

Brighton Beach bathing boxes

Iconic colourful bathing boxes on Brighton Beach—free to visit and ideal for photos late afternoon when light is softer; access is public day-round.
AUD0, 45m

5:00pm

Return to city; dinner in South Melbourne (bankers & seafood)

South Melbourne Market precinct and surrounding restaurants offer great seafood and modern Aussie cuisine—most restaurants open through dinner service.
AUD40, 1h30m

8:30pm

Sunset rooftop drinks at The Prince Hotel (St Kilda) or St Kilda's rooftop venues

Finish with ocean views and cocktails; rooftop seasonal hours vary—check venue hours and any live events.
AUD20, 1h30m

Day 10: Phillip Island Penguins

Phillip Island, Australia on December 10, 2025

9:00am

Day in Phillip Island (coastal sights and wildlife)

Explore Seal Rocks lookouts, the Nobbies and coastal boardwalks during the day—many lookouts open during daylight and are free to access.
AUD0, 6h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Cowes or local cafe

Small seaside town options—casual cafes and fish-and-chip spots typical for midday dining.
AUD28, 1h0m

4:00pm

Phillip Island Nature Parks: Penguin Parade (evening)

World-famous little penguin parade returns nightly at dusk; ticketed and seasonal times vary with sunset—book tickets in advance and arrive early for the best viewing areas.
AUD38, 2h30m

8:30pm

Return to Melbourne (late evening)

Expect a return journey of ~2 hours; plan for a late-night arrival and rest after an unforgettable wildlife experience.
AUD0, 1h0m

Day 11: Free Day & Farewell

Melbourne, Australia on December 11, 2025

8:00am

Leisurely breakfast at Hardware Lane or local cafe

Enjoy a relaxed final Melbourne breakfast in a historic laneway—most cafes open by 8:00am and are perfect for a last-minute city vibe.
AUD22, 1h0m

9:30am

Optional: Last-minute museums or shopping (NGV, Melbourne Central)

Use this free morning to revisit a favourite spot, pick up gifts at boutiques, or see a small gallery—opening times typically from 10:00am for major venues.
AUD0, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Lygon Street (Italian precinct) or Hardware Societe re-visit

Final leisurely meal—Lygon Street is perfect for classic Italian pasta and gelato; most restaurants open for lunch through afternoon.
AUD35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Pack & last stroll along the Yarra

Light activity to burn time before evening—riverside promenades and small parks are open all day and great for a relaxed walk.
AUD0, 1h0m

5:30pm

Farewell rooftop dinner at Madame Brussels or Rooftop at QT

Celebrate your final Melbourne night with rooftop views and a memorable menu—book ahead and check rooftop hours (often close by midnight).
AUD75, 2h0m

9:30pm

Prepare for departure next morning (2025-12-12)

Pack, confirm airport transfer or tram route, and rest—allow time for early morning check-out and travel to the airport on 2025-12-12.
AUD0, 30m
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