8-Day Family-Friendly Relaxation and Foodie Itinerary in Melbourne

Day 1: City Introduction

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Start your day with delightful French-inspired breakfast options, including their famous Eggs Benedict.
Located in the CBD, easily accessible via tram.
AUD 80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Federation Square

Stroll around this vibrant cultural precinct that hosts galleries, restaurants, and public events.
Walk 10 minutes from Hardware Société.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Australian Centre for the Moving Image

Explore fascinating exhibits on film, TV, and digital culture, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Located in Federation Square.
AUD 0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Chin Chin

Indulge in modern Thai cuisine with a family-friendly vibe and a delicious menu.
Short walk from Federation Square.
AUD 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Royal Botanic Gardens Tour

Take a leisurely walk through Melbourne's beautiful gardens, a wonderful place for kids to explore.
Take the tram from CBD to the gardens.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Ice Cream at Kukka

Grab a delightful scoop at this unique ice cream shop known for its seasonal flavors.
Walk back towards the CBD.
AUD 40, 30 minutes

4:15PM

Street Art Walk in Hosier Lane

Experience Melbourne's vibrant street art scene in this iconic laneway.
Walking distance from Kukka.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Cumulus Inc.

Enjoy a relaxed dining experience with contemporary Australian dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Short walk from Hosier Lane.
AUD 150, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening at Eureka Skydeck

End your day by enjoying panoramic views of the city at the highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere.
Tram to Southbank.
AUD 100, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Queen Victoria Market

Discover fresh and locally sourced produce while enjoying breakfast from various vendors within the market.
Tram to Queen Victoria Market.
AUD 60, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Melbourne Museum

Explore exhibitions that showcase Australia's natural and cultural heritage with many interactive sections for children.
Take the tram from the market.
AUD 60, 2 hours

11:30AM

Royal Exhibition Building

Tour this historic building next to the museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Adjacent to Melbourne Museum.
AUD 0, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Tramway

Enjoy a family-friendly café with a varied menu suitable for little ones and adults alike.
Walk 15 minutes to Tramway.
AUD 70, 1 hour

1:00PM

Collingwood Children's Farm

Visit this hands-on farm where kids can feed animals and learn about farm life.
Drive or take a tram to Collingwood.
AUD 40, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Fitzroy Gardens

Take a relaxing stroll through this scenic park, home to beautiful ponds, playgrounds, and the Fairy Tree.
Short drive from the farm.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Italian Bar

Savor delicious authentic Italian dishes in a family-friendly environment.
Short drive or tram back to the CBD.
AUD 120, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening Stroll at St Kilda Beach

Take a walk along the beach, where the kids can run around and enjoy some fresh air.
Tram to St Kilda.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 3: Wine & Dine

Yarra Valley, Australia

7:30AM

Breakfast at Nibblies Café

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring local ingredients.
Drive to Yarra Valley (1-hour drive).
AUD 60, 1 hour

9:00AM

Yarra Valley Wine Tours

Embark on a family-friendly vineyard tour featuring tastings and tours at several family-run wineries.
Walk or drive between venues.
AUD 200 (varies by tour), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Healesville Hotel

Enjoy locally sourced, seasonal dishes that will satisfy every member of the family.
Drive to Healesville.
AUD 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Healesville Sanctuary

Explore this wildlife sanctuary focusing on Australian native animals, providing an interactive experience for all ages.
A short drive from Healesville Hotel.
AUD 120, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Chocolate Tasting at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Indulge in delicious handmade chocolates and ice creams for a sweet treat after your sanctuary visit.
Drive to the Chocolaterie.
AUD 80, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Mandala Wines

Enjoy a delightful dining experience with views over the vineyards and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Drive to Mandala Wines.
AUD 140, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Drive Back to Melbourne

Return to your accommodation in Melbourne for the night.
1-hour drive back to Melbourne.
N/A, 1 hour
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Day 4: Coastal Adventure

Mornington Peninsula, Australia

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Dunes

Start your day at this beachside café, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and hearty breakfasts.
Drive to Mornington Peninsula (1-hour drive).
AUD 70, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Peninsular Hot Springs

Relax in thermal pools and enjoy family-friendly treatments at this stunning spa resort.
Short drive to the Hot Springs.
AUD 120 (varies by package), 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Sorrento Beach

Take a beach walk or let the kids play in the sand at this family-friendly beach.
Drive to Sorrento Beach.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Sorrento Trattoria

Enjoy traditional Italian dishes with stunning views of the beach, perfect for lunch.
Short walk from the beach.
AUD 90, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Point Nepean National Park

Explore the natural beauty and rich history of the park with stunning coastal views.
Drive to the park.
AUD 0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Sunset at Cape Schanck Lighthouse

Witness breathtaking views of the coastline at this iconic lighthouse, the perfect way to end the day.
Short drive to the lighthouse.
AUD 20, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Cape Kitchen

Dine on fresh local produce while overlooking the beautiful Balnarring beach.
Drive to Balnarring.
AUD 130, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Melbourne

Drive back to Melbourne after a day full of relaxation.
1-hour drive back to Melbourne.
N/A, 1 hour
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Day 5: Art & Nature

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at KereKere Green

Indulge in a healthy breakfast with a variety of smoothie bowls and organic coffee options.
Walk or drive to KereKere Green.
AUD 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

Explore Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum featuring contemporary and historical artworks.
Tram to NGV.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll in the Botanical Gardens

Take a guided tour focusing on the flora and fauna unique to Australia, perfect for families.
Walk to the gardens from the gallery.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Garden Café

Enjoy light and fresh meals with plenty of options for children while overlooking the gardens.
Located within the Royal Botanic Gardens.
AUD 80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Melbourne Zoo

Discover over 300 animal species at this family-friendly zoo with interactive exhibits and play areas for children.
Drive or take tram to the zoo.
AUD 100, 3.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Moor's Head

Feast on locally sourced ingredients in a cozy pub atmosphere, perfect for families.
Drive to The Moor's Head.
AUD 100, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Nightwalk at Southbank Promenade

Enjoy a scenic evening walk along the Yarra River, taking in the city lights and vibrant atmosphere.
Take a short tram ride to Southbank.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 6: Forest & Gardens

Dandenong Ranges, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Miss Marple's Tea Room

Start your day in this delightful tearoom that offers homemade scones and breakfast options.
Drive to the Dandenong Ranges (1-hour drive).
AUD 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Puffing Billy Railway

Take a scenic ride on this historic steam railway that cuts through beautiful forests and gardens.
Located near the tearoom.
AUD 200 (family ticket), 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Sherbrooke Forest

Explore the picturesque Sherbrooke Forest, home to giant mountain ash trees and native wildlife.
Drive to Sherbrooke Forest.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Chataeu

Relax and enjoy a rustic menu featuring local produce at this charming restaurant set in a garden.
Drive to The Chateau.
AUD 80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Alfred Nicholas Gardens

This tranquil garden offers beautiful scenery, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Nearby the restaurant.
AUD 10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Olinda Village Shopping

Discover charming boutiques and artisan shops in this delightful village with a warm atmosphere.
Drive to Olinda.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Cuckoo Restaurant

Enjoy a unique dining experience with an Austrian menu and lively entertainment, suitable for families.
Short drive to Cuckoo Restaurant.
AUD 150, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Melbourne

Drive back to Melbourne after a day of nature and fun.
1-hour drive back to Melbourne.
N/A, 1 hour
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Day 7: Wildlife Wonderland

Phillip Island, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Enjoy a fresh breakfast near your accommodation before your day trip.
Short drive from your hotel.
AUD 60, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Phillip Island

Set off for a day of adventure and wildlife on Phillip Island.
2-hour drive to Phillip Island.
N/A, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Phillip Island Nature Parks

Explore wildlife parks where you can see koalas, kangaroos, and other native species in their natural habitats.
Drive to the nature parks.
AUD 100 (family ticket), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Penguin Café

Savor lunch overlooking the ocean and enjoy meals that cater to kids and adults.
Short drive from the parks.
AUD 80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Koala Conservation Centre

A must-visit for families interested in wildlife, this center allows you to get up close to koalas.
Drive to the Koala Centre.
AUD 60 (family ticket), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Cowes Beach Relaxation

Spend some downtime at Cowes Beach building sandcastles and enjoying the sun.
Drive to Cowes Beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Nobbies Centre

Enjoy dinner with stunning coastal views and a menu that includes many family-friendly options.
Drive to The Nobbies.
AUD 100, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Penguin Parade

End your day by witnessing the famous Penguin Parade at sunset, an unforgettable experience.
Short drive to the viewing area.
AUD 120 (family ticket), 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Return Drive to Melbourne

Return to your accommodation in Melbourne after an adventurous day.
2-hour drive back to Melbourne.
N/A, 2 hours
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Day 8: Final Explorations

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Worm

Finish your trip with a laid-back breakfast choosing from a diverse menu.
Tram or walk to Café de Worm.
AUD 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Queen Victoria Market Final Visit

Take one last stroll through the market picking up souvenirs and enjoying local goods.
Short tram ride to the market.
Free (additional costs for souvenirs), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Melbourne Laneways

Discover hidden gems, local artists, and unique shops in the famous laneways of Melbourne.
Walk from Queen Victoria Market.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Rasa Rasa

Taste the delightful flavors of Malaysian cuisine in a cozy and inviting restaurant.
Short walk from the laneways.
AUD 80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Shrine of Remembrance

Complete your Melbourne experience with a visit to this memorial, enjoying serene gardens and stunning views.
Take tram to the Shrine.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Last Shopping at Southbank Promenade

Final opportunity to shop along the riverfront, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Short tram or walking distance from Shrine.
Free (additional costs for shopping), 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Vue de Monde

End your Melbourne adventure with a stunning dining experience at this acclaimed restaurant with city views.
Short tram or walk to Collins Street.
AUD 350, 2 hours

8:00PM

Depart Melbourne

Say goodbye to Melbourne, wrapping up your incredible family-friendly journey.
Head to the airport, approximately a 30-minute drive.
N/A, 1 hour
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