Morning: Arrive at Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and take the SkyBus to the city centre (≈ $20). Drop your luggage at the budget-friendly Space Hotel in the CBD, which offers a rooftop view perfect for a honeymoon vibe.
Afternoon: Stroll through Federation Square and admire its modern architecture, then wander to the nearby Flinders Street Station for iconic photo ops.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Hardware Societe, a stylish yet affordable café serving Aussie‑European dishes (≈ $15). End the night with a walk along the Yarra River, taking in the city lights.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens for a tranquil lakeside walk and beautiful rose displays (free entry). Pack a picnic from a local deli for a scenic lunch.
Afternoon: Explore Melbourne’s famous street art in the Hosier Lane and the hidden gems of Degraves Street, perfect for Instagram‑worthy snaps.
Evening: Check into the affordable honeymoon‑friendly Travelodge Hotel Melbourne on the Southbank, offering river views and a cozy balcony (≈ $95/night). Dine at Southbank's St Kilda Beach Pop‑Up for fresh seafood under the stars.
Find HotelsMorning: Join a budget group tour to the Great Ocean Road (≈ $45). First stop: the breathtaking Torquay Surf Beach.
Afternoon: Continue to the iconic 12 Apostles for spectacular cliff‑side views and photo opportunities. A quick stop at Loch Ard Gorge adds more natural beauty.
Evening: Return to Melbourne and unwind with a casual dinner at Queen Victoria Market food stalls (≈ $10).
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) to explore Australian and international art (free entry). Grab a coffee at the gallery’s café.
Afternoon: Head to ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) for interactive exhibits on film and digital culture (≈ $12).
Evening: Experience a relaxed evening at Rooftop Bar at The Emerson, offering panoramic city views at a modest price (≈ $8 for a drink).
Find HotelsMorning: Take a tram to St Kilda Beach for sunrise and a calming walk along the pier.
Afternoon: Rent a bike (≈ $10) and ride the St Kilda to Port Phillip Bay coastal trail, stopping at the charming Acland Street for dessert.
Evening: Watch the sunset from the St Kilda Sea Baths area and enjoy affordable fish‑and‑chips at The Milk Bar (≈ $12).
Find HotelsMorning: Hop on a budget shuttle to the Yarra Valley (≈ $30). Begin with a visit to the scenic Healesville Sanctuary for native wildlife encounters (≈ $38).
Afternoon: Explore the picturesque Yarra River vineyards like De Bortoli and enjoy a tasting session (≈ $15).
Evening: Return to Melbourne, freshen up, and have a low‑key dinner at Chin Chin for modern Asian cuisine (≈ $20).
Find HotelsMorning: Browse boutique shops and vintage stores on Chapel Street, picking up souvenirs and stylish apparel.
Afternoon: Relax at the Royal Exhibition Building Gardens, a quiet spot for a final picnic before departure.
Evening: Collect your luggage, take the SkyBus back to the airport, and reflect on a week of beautiful, budget‑friendly moments (≈ $20).
Find HotelsTo extend the trip, add a full day exploring the Phillip Island penguin parade or a wine‑tasting tour in the Mornington Peninsula. If you need to shorten it, combine Day 4’s art visits with Day 5’s St Kilda walk and skip the Yarra Valley day—still keeping the most scenic highlights while saving both time and money.