Top 10 things to do for free in Melbourne

Check out the free exhibitions at National Gallery of Victoria.The Top Arts exhibition is now showing and features the top works from VCE students in Victoria. The student works’ explore topics from consumerism to community and gender identity. Come and be inspired by the diverse and modern works of future young artists at the NGV in the oldest and most frequented gallery in Australia.

If you like to be active, out and about, you’re going to enjoy Park Run. It’s a 5km Fun Run every Saturday morning, completely run by volunteers; you can either walk or run it. It’s a great way to meet people in your community, make new friends, and enjoy a coffee afterwards.  Park Runs are in many locations across the state, find the Park Run closest to where you live.  It’s a friendly run where everyone is welcome; you don’t need to be experienced runner to have a go.

Grab your friends and head into the Botanical gardens for a picnic, the gardens are conveniently located to the south of the CBD. It makes for a relaxing day exploring the pretty surrounds where you will be amazed by the plants and gardens of these world class botanic gardens. If you’re a bit of a green thumb, did you know that the Botanical Gardens run a tour every day at 10.30am. Check out more info here.

Learn more about Melbourne’s history during the Gold Rush and get lost in Melbourne’s original street art with a free walking tour.  These popular tours are entertaining, and a chance to learn more about Melbourne. See more info here

Experience the joys of living in a multicultural city at the Queen Victoria Market, where you can taste a variety of delicious cuisines; it's also a great place to shop for fruit and veg at low prices.  Visit speciality stores and learn more about Australian culture.  Find out about the history of this market, for example, did you know it was once a cemetery and livestock market before becoming a fruit and vegetable market?!

We’re lucky to be surrounded with gorgeous parks in Melbourne. Studley Park is a hidden gem of rivers and parklands only 4 kms from the city.  Edinburgh Gardens is a popular place to have a have a picnic or have a barbeque along the Yarra and enjoy worthwhile views of City skyline.

Meet up is a great way of meeting like-minded people. There are exciting free events on in Melbourne every day; simply search for your favourite activities from fitness, yoga, dancing to business networking events to even more niche outdoors activity. You’re highly likely to find new friends to explore Melbourne with, and maybe even discover a new hobby/passion!

Federation square is a great spot to meet with friends and find out what is happening in the city. It’s a hub for various art, cultural and sporting events. There is always something new to discover at Fed square, whether it’s catching the Australian Open tennis on the big screens in Summer or having a go at ice skating in Winter.

Local libraries have fantastic free resources, wifi and friendly staff to help you find exactly what you’re after.  Venture into the CBD to explore Victoria’s extensive range of books and resources at the State library.  The library also offers many cultural exhibitions, find out more, bookings are essential

Get orientated in Melbourne with a free tram ride around the key attractions including the Melbourne Aquarium, Parliament House and the Princess Theatre. Enjoy the people watching from an iconic Melbourne tram, where you will surely spot new cafes and bars to try!

Next : Things to do in Sydney

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