Melbourne is a boom of life and culture. From being a local with a few days off or a tourist who enjoys city breaks alone; there’s just about no limit to enjoying Melbourne alone.
But I’m not going to talk about the locals here. Instead, we will focus on you – the solo traveler who wants to bathe in the beguiling essence of the city.
So, let’s talk about the things to do alone in Melbourne. Oh… I’ve included some unique places to visit in the metropolis as well – so, be sure to follow us till the end.
1. Explore Federation Square
Federation Square is the cultural heart of Melbourne. There is always something happening here – whether it’s a free event or an art exhibition. So, if you are an aesthete, be sure to find your way to the –
- NGV International
- Buxton Contemporary
- Heide Museum of Modern Art
- ARC ONE Gallery
- Koorie Heritage Trust
Or… you can just stroll around, get a coffee, and feel the pulsation of the city.
2. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria
Art lovers, listen up, the National Gallery of Victoria houses many of the world’s finest international collections. Take a gander at the galleries and take in everything from classical to modern. The best part? It’s usually free!
3. Walk Around the Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a tranquil oasis set away from the general hubbub of the city. Here, you can take a relaxed walk around the luscious gardens, have a picnic by the lake, or sit there and drink in the quietness.
4. Visit the Laneways
Laneways in Melbourne are renowned for street art and other treasures that can be hidden. Many of these can be explored on free walking tours along Hosier Lane, DeGrave’s Street, and Union Lane. Each of the laneways offers its own unique types of art, cool shops, and great coffee spots. Don’t forget the photo opportunities, too!
5. Catch a Movie at an Indie Cinema
Avoid the huge cinemas and seek out some art-house cinema like the Astor Theatre or the Nova. For an avid movie lover, this is something that you need to experience alone.
Often, they play a mix of indie releases, classics, or foreign-language films. It’s a great way to enjoy a flick and perhaps discover something you haven’t seen before.
6. Take a Siesta Along St Kilda Beach
Take the tram downtown to St. Kilda Beach and enjoy the sun and sea. Walk along the pier, lie on the sand, or just have a fast bite in one of the cafes nestled along the beachfront. Feeling quite adventurous? Try your hand at kite surfing or paddleboarding.
Read Also: Sun, Surf, and Sunshine: Best Experiences in Coolangatta on the Gold Coast
7. Queen Victoria Market
Queen Victoria Market is a place with everything, fresh produce, unique souvenirs, and so much more. One can walk among the stalls, taste some street food, or just be a part of the lively atmosphere that covers the place.
8. Visit the Melbourne Museum
Of course, if you like history and science, then the Melbourne Museum has things to do alone in Melbourne. From dinosaurs to Aboriginal culture, discover everything that falls within these museums. Both learning and fun, a single visit here should not miss out on your itinerary.
9. Take a Tram Ride Around the City
Trams are Melbourne’s lifeline. Catch a free ride on the City Circle Tram to get an overview of the city. A fantastic, laid-back way to absorb the many attractions that Melbourne has in store for you without any hassle.
10. Melbourne Zoo
This is a perfect place for spending a day in the city and looking for things to do alone in Melbourne, then the Melbourne Zoo is the best place to visit.
Observe animals from all over the world, enjoy the beautiful gardens, and take your time observing wildlife. It’s a great way to unwind and connect with nature.
11. Solo Coffee Adventure
Melbourne is also known for its coffee culture. Take a day drifting from one cafe to another, sampling different brews.
Whether you take it flat white or black as a shot of espresso, there’s a cafe to suit every taste. Try going to Proud Mary or Seven Seeds while you are there.
12. Climb the Eureka Skydeck
For panoramic views of Melbourne, head up to the Eureka Skydeck. Housed on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower, the Skydeck gives you panoramic views of the city and everything around it. It’s a wonderful way to get your bearings and take in some just incredible scenery.
13. Visit the Arts Centre Melbourne
The Arts Centre Melbourne showcases some theater, dance, and music performances. If you are someone who appreciates foreign arts and loves to immerse yourself in the culture of different countries, this is the perfect solo activity for you.
You are really going to love roaming around the Art Centre, taking it all in, without anyone disturbing your peace or experience.
Look through the month’s calendar and go for one if there is something of interest to you. Going to a performance alone can be very enriching as well.
14. Visit the Melbourne Aquarium
Another marvelous thing you can do all by yourself in the aquarium. Discover sea life around the globe, from sharks to penguins and colorful tropical fish. It’s a sparkling experience at the same time for a great solo trip.
15. Walk Along the Yarra River
Another beautiful river flows through Melbourne, the Yarra, offering great stretches of walking paths. I can understand walking along a beautiful river can be quite romantic.
But if you are someone who loves the company of your own presence then it can be quite enjoyable for you as well.
Its banks invite a leisurely stroll, a step into one of the riverside parks, or merely a viewing of the cityscape it presents. It’s such a peaceful way to take in the natural beauty of Melbourne.
16. State Library of Victoria
If you are a bookworm and you carry more books than clothes when you are traveling, then you can stop yourself from carrying a lot of books while traveling to Melbourne.
The State Library of Victoria is more than just one to read. The architecture here has grandeur, and the historical collections make it worthwhile. Here, you can enjoy a wide variety of excellent books with a beautiful view of the library’s architecture.
Find a quiet corner to read a book or explore the magnificent collection of old manuscripts and maps. These are some of the things to do alone in Melbourne since you don’t need someone else to read a good book.
17. Foodie Tour
Melbourne is a culinary heaven. Indulge in a self-guided foodie tour. For example, start with brunch at one of the more fashionable cafes and then scatter through ethnic eateries in suburbs like Footscray or Richmond. End the day with a nice dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants.
Read Also: 20 Best Australian Foods You Should Not Miss
18. Old Melbourne Gaol
For a taste of history and drama, visit Melbourne Gaol. Melbourne’s historic jail offers tours that bring back the history of the city. Discover who spent time within these walls and get a glimpse into Melbourne’s darker past.
19. Take a break in Fitzroy Gardens
Another lovely park is Fitzroy Gardens. You can walk around the gardens, visit Captain Cook’s Cottage, or find a quiet, secluded spot where you sit back and do nothing. It’s great to take it easy and enjoy quiet time.
20. Street Art Tour
There is vibrant street art in Melbourne. Join a street art tour, or if there’s a bit of adventure left in you, grab a map and see it yourself.
Areas like Fitzroy and Collingwood have the highest saturation of gorgeous murals and pieces that are unique. It’s one fun way to experience the creative side of the city.
Wrapping Up!
With all its avenues, Melbourne is the best destination for a solo adventure. If you have interests in arts, nature, or food or just exploring things on one’s own, there will always be exciting things that you can do there.
So, get out your map, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to discover so many aspects of this incredible city. Have fun exploring Melbourne alone!
If you think this article helped you narrow down a few things to do alone in Melbourne, please like and comment below.
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