Top Rated Attractions in Melbourne

A war memorial built as a token of profound gratitude for all the men and women who served Australia in wars and conflicts, the Shrine of Remembrance was built in 1934 and features permanent and special exhibitions. The monument sits on a grassy knoll with its design inspired by ancient Greek architecture. Every year, on November 11th, celebrated as Remembrance Day, a ray of natural light shines through the roof onto the Stone of Remembrance at 11a, illuminating the word "love" in the inscription on the stone. Two guided tours of the peaceful yet sobering landmark are offered daily. The Galleries of Remembrance showcases artworks, artifacts and medals of soldiers.

This huge, Victorian-era building is World Heritage-listed for its architectural and historical significance. Situated among the tree-lined avenues of Carlton Gardens, it stands as a Melbourne landmark. The scale and grandeur of the building reflect the wealth of Victoria's gold rush era, so does its richly painted interior. The Exhibition Building was constructed in 1880 to host Melbourne's first Centennial Exhibition, a display of inventions and arts from around the globe. It went on to become the seat of Australia's first parliament in 1901. Daily tours provide an insight into the building's history.

Situated on the outskirts of the city, Carlton Gardens surround the magnificent Royal Exhibition Building and new Melbourne Museum. Featuring colorful flower beds, vintage carved fountains and glistening lakes, this is a great spot for a quick escape from the bustling city surrounding it. Housed within the garden is the famous Hochgurtel Fountain, which is a landmark by itself. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Carlton Garden is certainly the pride of the city and is surely a must visit attraction.

Established in the 19th Century, the Old Melbourne Gaol is Victoria's oldest surviving prison. The gaol, now operating as a heritage museum, is stationed within a bluestone building that opened in 1842. During its tenure, it housed thousands of inmates, most notably the infamous Ned Kelly, who was held here until his execution in 1880, after standing trial for crimes including murder, bank robbery, and resisting arrest. It functioned as a prison until 1924. Today, the site is well-preserved and its architecture untouched, save modern conveniences later added for visitors. The museum spans three stories of the prison building, with displays ranging from historical accounts, to personal belongings of former inmates. The gaol also features a 40-minute interactive Watch House experience complete with staged arrests. Brave souls can explore the erstwhile prison by candlelight via a Night Tour.

Built in 1868, Rippon Lea House and Gardens is a Two-storey house surrounded by a luscious garden with a pond on its premises. As majestic as the exteriors, the interiors are elegantly decorated with vintage furniture lending a classic appeal to the house. The estate that was once occupied as a private residence by a politician in the 19th Century is now rented out for spaces for various exhibitions. The house and gardens are open for all to visit so you can transport yourself back in time and learn about the history of the estate.

Part of Melbourne's cultural heritage, St. Patricks Cathedral bespeaks of faith and belief in almighty. With daily worship and weekly masses, the church exudes an environment of peace and harmony. The cathedral is also a center for exhibitions and concerts of sacred music.