7-Day Budget Adventure in Melbourne: Culture, Nature, and Foodie Delights

Day 1: Cultural Dive

Melbourne, Australia

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Kettle Black

Start your day at this cozy cafe renowned for its innovative and delicious breakfast options, like the famous 'breakfast burger'.
Tram to St Kilda Road
AUD20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Royal Botanic Gardens

Stroll through these beautiful gardens, exploring the diverse collections of plants and serene lakes.
Walk from The Kettle Black
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at South Melbourne Market

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at the market, sampling local dishes from various stalls.
Tram to South Melbourne Market
AUD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

National Gallery of Victoria

Visit Australia's oldest public art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art.
Tram to NGV
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Laneways Exploration

Discover Melbourne's iconic laneways filled with street art, cafes, and boutique shops.
Walk around the CBD
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

Savor a budget-friendly yet delicious Southeast Asian dinner in this trendy eatery.
Walk to Chin Chin
AUD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: City and Nature

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Operator25

Indulge in hearty breakfast options with a focus on sustainable ingredients at this cafe.
Tram to CBD
AUD18, 1 hour

9:30AM

Fitzroy Gardens

Explore the lush gardens, including a model village and the lovely Conservatory.
Walk from Operator25
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Melbourne Museum

Visit the museum to learn about the city’s history, culture, and biodiversity with its engaging exhibits.
Tram to the Museum
AUD15, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Lune Croissanterie

A bakery famous for its delicious and flaky croissants, a must-try for any foodie on a budget.
Walk to Lune
AUD12, 1 hour

3:30PM

St Kilda Beach

Spend your afternoon relaxing or swimming at the sandy beach with beautiful views of the sunset.
Tram to St Kilda Beach
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Claypots Barbaría

Enjoy a casual dinner with a variety of seafood and tapas options that won’t break the bank.
Walk to Claypots
AUD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Great Ocean Road Trip

Great Ocean Road, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at Caffe e Torta

Grab an early breakfast and coffee to go from this local favorite before hitting the road.
Car rental or tour bus
AUD15, 30 mins

8:00AM

Drive starts to Great Ocean Road

Travel along one of the world's most scenic coastal drives, stopping at picturesque viewpoints.
Car rental
AUD70 (Daily rental), 3 hours

11:00AM

Loch Ard Gorge

Visit this stunning area known for its dramatic cliffs and beautiful beach; perfect for exploration.
Short drive from main road
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Grotto

Enjoy a simple yet tasty meal with ocean views while at Loch Ard Gorge.
Walk to the cafe
AUD18, 1 hour

1:30PM

Twelve Apostles

Stop at these iconic limestone stacks, a must-see when exploring the Great Ocean Road.
Drive towards Twelve Apostles
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Melbourne

Complete your day by driving back, soaking in the coastal sights as you go.
Car rental
Included in rental, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Little Creatures

Reward yourself with a delicious and affordable meal paired with craft beers at this popular bar.
Walk to Little Creatures
AUD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Urban Escapes

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Higher Ground

Savor a unique breakfast in a trendy atmosphere that features seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Tram to Higher Ground
AUD22, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Queen Victoria Market

Explore the bustling market with a plethora of fresh produce, gourmet foods, and artisan products.
Tram to the Market
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Market Lane Coffee

Grab a quick bite and some of the best coffee in town while enjoying the market vibes.
Walk to Market Lane Coffee
AUD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Eureka Skydeck

Get a bird’s eye view of Melbourne from the highest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere.
Tram to Eureka
AUD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Gleadell Street Market

Check out this lesser-known market, ideal for buying fresh fruits and veggies directly from local vendors.
Tram to Richmond
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Di Palma Cafe

Indulge in Italian cuisine, focusing on wood-fired pizzas that are perfect for a relaxed dinner.
Walk to Di Palma
AUD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Nature Immersion

Mornington Peninsula, Australia

7:30AM

Breakfast at Pakenham Lake

Start your day with a delicious breakfast overlooking serene lake views, a perfect tranquil spot.
Drive or tour bus to Mornington Peninsula
AUD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Sorrento Beach

Relax at the beach and enjoy swimming or sunbathing in this picturesque coastal town.
Drive to Sorrento
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Point Nepean National Park

Explore the walking trails and learn about the area's rich history and diverse wildlife.
Drive or walk into the park
AUD15 (Entry Fee), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Baths Sorrento

Enjoy seasonal dishes made from fresh local ingredients overlooking the bay.
Walk to The Baths
AUD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Bushwalking at Mornington Peninsula National Park

Immerse yourself in nature with breathtaking coastal views and rich biodiversity while walking the various trails.
Short drive to the National Park
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Local Taphouse

Enjoy a selection of craft beers and tasty pub fare for a laid-back dining experience.
Drive to Local Taphouse
AUD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Art and Relaxation

Melbourne, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Acheron

Start your day at this charming café with great options for breakfast and excellent coffee.
Tram to North Melbourne
AUD18, 1 hour

10:30AM

Abbotsford Convent

Explore the historic convent now transformed into a vibrant cultural precinct with gardens, art spaces, and studios.
Tram to Abbotsford
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yarraville Square

Savor lunch at one of many cafes in this charming neighborhood filled with local shops.
Train to Yarraville
AUD15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Royal Exhibition Building

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site and marvel at its stunning architecture and gardens.
Train to Carlton Gardens
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shopping in CBD

Spend your afternoon browsing through boutiques, souvenir shops, and the iconic Block Arcade.
Train or walk to CBD
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Meat & Wine Co.

Indulge in a delightful dinner that focuses on wood-fired meats and an extensive wine list.
Tram to the restaurant
AUD40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Final Day Fun

Melbourne, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Bluebagels

Enjoy fresh bagels and specialty coffee to kickstart your last day in Melbourne.
Tram to the café
AUD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Melbourne Zoo

Visit the beautiful zoo and engage with a diverse range of animals while learning about conservation.
Tram to the zoo
AUD24, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at LaNico

Savor delicious pastries and Italian specialties in this cozy cafe with outdoor seating.
Walk to LaNico
AUD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Melbourne’s CBD

Take a leisurely walk to revisit favorite spots or discover hidden gems in the city center.
Walk around CBD
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Departure Preparation

Take the time to enjoy your last moments in the city, perhaps grabbing souvenirs to remember your trip.
Tram to Departure point
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Attica

Experience a memorable dinner at one of Australia’s famed restaurants, focusing on unique and innovative dishes.
Tram to Attica
AUD80, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability