Melbourne draws visitors with its rich arts scene, eclectic food options, and nature-filled getaways. If you’re in Melbourne on a budget, exploring this lively city might seem overwhelming.
However, there’s plenty to enjoy without overspending. Free attractions, like world-class museums and public gardens, offer cultural and scenic delights at no cost. Here, we will uncover the budget-friendly side of this Australian gem so you can fully experience it without breaking the bank.
Affordable Melbourne Travel Tips
When planning for budget travel in Melbourne, knowing where to save without compromising the experience is essential. Here are some ways to enjoy the city inexpensively:
1. Time Your Visit Wisely
Plan your trip to Melbourne during the shoulder season, which falls between May and August (late autumn and winter). During this period, accommodation prices dip slightly. Keep an eye on cheap Melbourne travel deals, as many airlines offer special flight promotions during these months.
While the weather might be cooler, you’ll still be able to enjoy Melbourne’s renowned indoor attractions, including its coffee culture, diverse dining scene, and cultural offerings. Additionally, winter brings special events like NGV International’s annual Winter Masterpieces exhibition, which showcases world-renowned artists.
2. Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation
To save money, choose budget-friendly accommodation. Consider staying in hostels or “flashpackers,” which offer dorm beds and private rooms at reasonable rates.
The Space Hotel on Russell Street is a great example, a boutique hotel that provides comfortable accommodations in a central location. Another option is to look for budget hotels like Ibis Budget Melbourne CBD, which offers compact, clean rooms.
For even more savings, explore accommodation options in neighborhoods outside the city center, such as Bayside St Kilda. Known for its laid-back beach vibe, St Kilda is just a short tram ride from the city center, making it easy to access Melbourne’s attractions.
3. Take Advantage of Free Public Transportation
Melbourne’s public transport system offers excellent opportunities to save money. The entire central business district (CBD) is within the Free Tram Zone, allowing you to travel on trams within this area at no cost. For travel beyond the CBD, invest in a Myki card, which costs $6 and can be topped up with credit. There’s a daily cap of $10 ($7.20 on weekends) for unlimited travel.
4. Eat Smart and Save
Melbourne is a food lover’s paradise, but dining out can quickly add up. Take advantage of happy hour specials at bars and cafes to keep costs down, typically between 4 pm and 6 pm.
For instance, Riverland Bar offers $9 drinks, including selected pints, wines, spirits, and spritzes, Monday to Friday from 4 pm to 7 pm. Another great option is Mesa Verde, where you can indulge in $10 Tommy’s margaritas from Tuesday to Saturday, between 4 pm and 6 pm.
Exploring budget-friendly dining options in Chinatown is also a great way to enjoy affordable pan-Asian cuisine. Hakata Gensuke Ramen stands out for its authentic Japanese ramen, serving up hearty bowls at reasonable prices. Shanghai Street is another popular spot known for its delicious Chinese dishes like dumplings, noodles, and stir-fries, all at budget-friendly prices.
5. Plan Your Nightlife Strategically
Consider “pre-fading” by purchasing alcohol from stores and drinking with friends before heading out to reduce your spending at bars and clubs in Melbourne. To stock up on affordable drinks, several bottle shops around the city offer a great selection.
Mr West Bar and Bottle Shop in Footscray is a popular choice, known for its wide range of craft beers, spirits, and natural wines. With six locations across Melbourne, Matthews Liquor has a stock of over 200 Australian-made premium craft beers.
Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Melbourne
If you’re visiting Melbourne on a budget, you’re in luck—there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city without spending much. Whether strolling through laneways, exploring parks, or enjoying free art galleries, here are some cheap attractions in Melbourne:
1. Explore the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
Photo from The National Gallery of Victoria
The National Gallery of Victoria offers free entry to its permanent collections, making it a perfect destination for art lovers on a budget. Located on St Kilda Road, the NGV houses an extensive Australian and international art collection.
Don’t miss the stained-glass ceiling in the Great Hall. You can access special exhibitions for a small fee (usually around AU $20 to 30 or US $13 to 19). The NGV also offers free guided tours. After exploring the gallery, relax in the sculpture garden or enjoy a coffee at the NGV café.
2. Visit Queen Victoria Market
Queen Victoria Market is a must-visit Melbourne landmark, offering abundant food, fresh produce, and unique finds. With over 600 stalls, you can spend hours exploring gourmet items, fresh fruits, vegetables, and local souvenirs.
For a budget-friendly meal, don’t miss the famous borek at the Borek Shop or fresh oysters from Happy Tuna Seafoods. The Night Market comes alive in summer and winter with live entertainment, street food, and artisan stalls every Wednesday evening. For a deeper dive into the market’s offerings, join foodie tours for AUD 99 (US $64).
3. Take a Free Walking Tour with I'm Free Walking Tours
If you’re looking for cheap Melbourne activities, I’m Free Walking Tours offers a pay-what-you-wish experience. This 3-hour tour takes you through iconic landmarks like Federation Square, Flinders Street Station, the Old Melbourne Gaol, and Melbourne’s famous laneways.
Tours run daily at 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM, departing from the State Library of Victoria. While the tour is free, tipping your guide based on your experience is encouraged.
4. Enjoy the Royal Botanic Gardens
Photo from The Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens span 38 hectares, offering beautifully landscaped gardens and a vibrant collection of native and exotic plants. Entry is free, except for special events, and visitors can join a daily guided walk between 7:30 AM and 7:30 PM.
For a more immersive experience, the Aboriginal Heritage Walk (AUD 40 / USD 26) provides insight into Indigenous culture and traditional plant uses. Bring a picnic to relax on the lush lawns, or grab a snack at the Observatory Café. Be sure to visit the Ornamental Lake, home to diverse birdlife, and the Fern Gully, a fantastic forest habitat.
5. Explore St Kilda Beach and Luna Park
St Kilda Beach is a budget-friendly destination with free beach access and stunning views of Port Phillip Bay. Take a leisurely walk along St Kilda Pier, where you might spot little penguins at dusk.
The iconic Luna Park entrance is free, with rides costing AU $5-15 (US $3.25-9.75). For an affordable meal, try the famous cake shops on Acland Street. On Sundays, visit the St Kilda Esplanade Market to explore local crafts and enjoy free live music. Wrap up your day by watching the sunset from the beach or the Esplanade.
Takeaway
These cheap Melbourne activities allow you to experience free art galleries, lush gardens, budget-friendly dining, and unique markets. By careful planning and taking advantage of these cost-effective attractions, you can fully immerse yourself in Melbourne’s charm while keeping your expenses in check.
After discovering all the affordable things to do in Melbourne, it’s time to plan your trip. OneAir is the best platform for finding cheap flights and hotels. With a wide range of budget-friendly options, OneAir helps you get the best deals. Sign up today and start planning your Melbourne adventure!
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