Melbourne CBD One-Day Adventure Itinerary

Explore the Heart of Melbourne in One Day Discover the vibrant Melbourne Central Business District (CBD) with this perfectly curated itinerary. From hidden laneways and art-filled streets to iconic landmarks, immerse yourself in a day full of culture, great food, and local experiences. 

Morning: Kickstart Your Day 

Stop 1: Breakfast at Degraves Street 

Time: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM 

Location: Degraves St.

Start your day in one of Melbourne’s famous laneways, Degraves Street. Known for its chic cafes and bustling atmosphere, grab a flat white and indulge in a classic Melbourne breakfast. 

Photo Tip: Capture the iconic umbrellas and outdoor seating amidst the busy street. Use a wide-angle shot to include the vibrant laneway and its charming atmosphere. 

Stop 2: Flinders Street Station 

Time: 9:15 AM – 9:30 AM 

Location: Flinders St.

Snap a photo at one of Melbourne’s most recognizable landmarks, Flinders Street Station. This beautiful yellow building with its famous clock is a must-see! 

Photo Tip: Capture the station’s detailed facade and the hustle and bustle of commuters below. Take a photo during the morning light to enhance its golden hue for an artistic shot. 

Mid-Morning: Culture & Creativity 

Stop 3: Federation Square & ACMI 

Time: 9:45 AM – 10:30 AM 

Location: Federation Square

Stroll across Federation Square, Melbourne’s central cultural hub. Check out the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), where interactive exhibits on film, TV, and digital culture await. 

Photo Tip: Photograph the futuristic architecture of Federation Square. For an artsy shot, capture the geometric designs of the buildings, or get a reflective shot of the Yarra River nearby. 

Stop 4: Street Art at Hosier Lane 

Time: 10:45 AM – 11:30 AM 

Location: Hosier Lane

Explore Hosier Lane, Melbourne’s iconic street art lane filled with colourful murals, graffiti, and ever-changing street art. It’s the perfect spot to appreciate local artists. 

Photo Tip: Take vibrant photos of the detailed graffiti and murals. Consider shooting close-ups for individual artworks or wide-angle shots to encompass the entire laneway. 

Lunch: Culinary Delights 

Stop 5: Lunch at Chin Chin 

Time: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM 

Location: 125 Flinders Lane

Treat yourself to a culinary adventure at Chin Chin, a Melbourne institution known for mouth-watering Southeast Asian fusion dishes. 

Photo Tip: Snap colourful and tempting pictures of their signature dishes. Capture food in natural light to enhance the vibrancy of fresh ingredients. 

Afternoon: A Taste of Melbourne’s History 

Stop 6: Royal Botanic Gardens 

Time: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM 

Location: Birdwood Ave, South Yarra 

Escape the city rush and walk peacefully through the Royal Botanic Gardens. Enjoy scenic views, exotic plants, and tranquil lakes. Photo Tip: Capture the vibrant greenery and colourful flowers. Wide shots with reflections in the lakes can make for breathtaking images. 

Stop 7: Shrine of Remembrance 

Time: 3:45 PM – 4:15 PM 

Location: Kings Domain, St Kilda Road 

Visit the Shrine of Remembrance, just a short walk from the Botanic Gardens. From its balcony, this war memorial offers stunning views of the city. 

Photo Tip: Photograph the Shrine's grand architecture and capture panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline from the top. 

Late Afternoon: Shopping & Treats 

Stop 8: Bourke Street Mall 

Time: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM 

Location: Bourke St.

Head over to Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne’s most famous shopping street. With flagship stores like Myer and David Jones, you’ll find everything from luxury brands to local favorites. 

Photo Tip: Capture candid moments of people shopping, street musicians performing, and trams passing by for a quintessential Melbourne moment. 

Evening: Melbourne at Night 

Stop 9: Dinner at Hardware Lane 

Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM 

Location: Hardware Lane

End your day with a delicious dinner at one of Hardware Lane’s many restaurants. This laneway is famous for its lively atmosphere, live music, and diverse dining options. 

Photo Tip: Photograph the evening vibe, with fairy lights hanging across the lane and alfresco diners enjoying their meals. 

Stop 10: Eureka Skydeck 

Time: 8:00 PM – 9:00 

PM Location: 7 Riverside Quay

End your night with a spectacular view of Melbourne from the Eureka Skydeck, the highest public viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere. 

Photo Tip: Capture panoramic night shots of the city skyline. Light exposure shots of the twinkling of the city lights below can make for breathtaking images. 

Bonus: After-Dinner Drinks 

Stop 11: Rooftop Bar 

Time: 9:30 PM – Late 

Location: Curtin House, 252 Swanston St.

Grab a drink and relax at one of Melbourne’s famous rooftop bars. Enjoy a cocktail while taking in the cool night air and city views. 

Photo Tip: Take candid shots of the skyline as the city lights up, with drinks and friends in the foreground to capture the mood.