Top 5 Melbourne Highlights for First-Time Travellers

In one sentence, Melbourne is a vibe! There’s something for everyone and I was there for 6 days in April 2021, just before Sydney went into 6 months lockdown due to Australia’s second wave of Covid-19.

So after a lot of walking, driving, and hiking around Melbourne & surrounds, here is a list of absolutely must-dos if you are visiting for the first time!

1. Californian Redwoods

This is on top of my list for all the right reasons. Californian Redwoods is a hidden gem on the Great Ocean Road, yes you heard me right. Located inside Great Otway National Park’s Beech Forest is this wonderland of redwood trees that soar high up to the skies and a perfect Insta-worthy place.

2. Hopetoun Falls

Another gem of a place in the same Beech Forest and just 10 mins away from the Californian Redwoods is this amazing waterfall that gushes out water 30m down to Aire River, throughout the year. The hike down to the waterfall takes about 20 mins but there are a lot of stairs.

You can watch the full vlog about this place and how to get there

3. Peninsula Hot Springs

I would suggest to keep this activity for the last day of your trip when you are all exhausted and tired of the long hikes and daily adventures. Peninsula Hot Springs is located in Mornington Peninsula and is an artificial oasis created out of natural mineral-rich thermal springs. It cost only 60 AUD for a day pass. The hot springs have about 50 springs and some of them have amazing views.

4. Easys Burgers

Melbourne’s suburbs are very eclectic and have some very unique places you can visit and one of them is Easys Burgers. The reason I loved this places is because there are 3 trams perched on the roof of an old building and you can actually sit inside those trams to enjoy your meal. The burgers were very delicious as well.

5. Yarra Valley Chocolatarie and Ice-creamery

I honestly didn’t have much expectations from this place but when I got there, my mind was blown. They have so many different types of chocolates and ice creams that I was spoilt for choices and I don’t even like chocolates that much. The flavours are very unique and the ingredients are locally sourced. Definitely a must-visit!

And if you would like to see my full itinerary of travelling around Melbourne, check out this YouTube video.