Melbourne Wildlife & Urban Exploration: A 3-Day June 2025 Itinerary Featuring Animals and Iconic Spots

Day 1: Melbourne City & Zoo

Melbourne, Australia on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Higher Ground Café

Enjoy a stylish breakfast at Higher Ground, a popular Melbourne café known for innovative dishes and great coffee, open from 7:30am.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Visit Melbourne Zoo

Get up close with native Australian animals and exotic species at Melbourne Zoo, open from 9am to 5pm. Don’t miss the Trail of the Elephants and the Aussie Bush section.
AUD42, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Zilla Kitchen at Melbourne Zoo

Enjoy a convenient and tasty lunch at this zoo-based eatery offering healthy and fresh choices with zoo views.
AUD25, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens

Walk through this UNESCO World Heritage site and adjoining gardens for beautiful architecture and serene nature.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Stroll along the Yarra River and Southbank

Relax as you walk along the scenic Yarra River promenade lined with cafés and public art installations.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Atelier

Experience fine dining with a seasonal tasting menu by one of Melbourne’s top chefs, perfect for a special evening. Book in advance.
AUD150, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Phillip Island Wildlife

Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia on June 2, 2025

6:30am

Quick Breakfast at The Hardware Societe

Fuel up early with a flavoursome breakfast at this beloved café before heading to Phillip Island.
AUD20, 30m

7:00am

Travel to Phillip Island

Drive approximately 2 hours to Phillip Island, known for its rich wildlife and coastal scenery.
Fuel approx AUD40, 2h

9:00am

Visit Koala Conservation Centre

Walk among the treetops on raised boardwalks and observe koalas in their natural habitat, open from 9am to 5pm.
AUD14, 1h

10:30am

Explore Nobbies Centre

Enjoy spectacular ocean views and spot seals and seabirds at this conservation and visitor centre.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Pino’s Trattoria

Savour Italian cuisine in Cowes at this charming restaurant, perfect for a midday break.
AUD35, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Phillip Island Wildlife Park

Walk freely among kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and feed friendly animals in this immersive wildlife park.
AUD22, 1h30m

3:30pm

Relax or stroll in Cowes

Enjoy some free time in Phillip Island’s main town for shopping or casual seaside strolls.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach

Witness the famous Little Penguins return to shore at sunset. The viewing period starts 5:30pm in June. Book tickets early.
AUD30, 2h

7:30pm

Drive back to Melbourne

Return journey to Melbourne, approximately 2 hours.
Fuel included earlier, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Healesville Sanctuary Day

Healesville, Victoria, Australia on June 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Soul Food

Enjoy wholesome breakfast options in Melbourne before heading out to Healesville Sanctuary, open from 9am to 5pm.
AUD20, 30m

8:00am

Drive to Healesville Sanctuary

Travel approximately 1 hour northeast of Melbourne to this renowned wildlife sanctuary focused on native Australian animals.
Fuel approx AUD20, 1h

9:00am

Explore Healesville Sanctuary

Meet kangaroos, wombats, dingoes, and the elusive platypus while enjoying expert wildlife presentations throughout the day.
AUD40, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Sanctuary Café

Enjoy a light lunch at the onsite café overlooking bushland and animal enclosures.
AUD25, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Gruyere Farm Markets (Thursday only) or Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

If your date aligns, visit the local farm markets for fresh produce or indulge in a sweet treat at the chocolaterie, open daily till 5pm.
Free entry, treats extra, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Donna Buang Waterfalls Walk

Take a gentle walk to spectacular waterfalls nearby, a refreshing nature experience before returning to Melbourne.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Melbourne

Drive back to the city, arriving in time for a relaxed dinner or evening activity.
Fuel included earlier, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Vue de monde

Celebrate your Melbourne trip with a premium dinner at this renowned fine dining restaurant offering spectacular skyline views and exquisite dishes.
AUD180, 2h
View Hotel Availability