Top 10 Exciting Things to Do in Melbourne for International Students

Welcome to International Student Tips! Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital and a top student city, is bursting with activities that won’t break the bank. Ranked fifth in the QS Best Student Cities 2025, it’s a haven for international students seeking adventure, culture, and connection. From free galleries to vibrant festivals, here are the Top 10 exciting things to do in Melbourne, with a focus on free activities and clear steps on how to access them.

1. Stroll the Royal Botanic Gardens (Free)

The Royal Botanic Gardens, a 38-hectare green escape, is perfect for a picnic, study session, or free guided walk among 8,000 plant species.

• Why Go? It’s free, calming, and great for meeting friends.
• How to Access: Walk 15 minutes from Flinders Street Station or take a free City Circle Tram to Domain Parklands. Check Royal Botanic Gardens for free tour schedules (daily at 11 AM). No registration needed—just show up at the Visitor Centre.
• Student Perk: Free entry to all areas; bring your student ID for discounts on special events like Lightscape.

2. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria (Free)

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) offers free entry to its permanent collection, featuring global and Australian art, including the iconic Great Hall’s stained-glass ceiling.

• Why Go? It’s a budget-friendly way to soak up culture.
• How to Access: Take a free City Circle Tram to Federation Square, then walk 5 minutes to St Kilda Road. Visit NGV’s website to check free exhibitions or sign up for student events (e.g., art talks, no booking required). Open daily 10 AM-5 PM.
• Student Perk: Free workshops for students; show your ID at the info desk to inquire.

3. Explore Queen Victoria Market (Free Entry)

Queen Victoria Market, a Melbourne icon since 1878, offers free entry to browse fresh produce, global street food, and quirky stalls.

• Why Go? It’s a vibrant spot to experience Melbourne’s foodie culture.
• How to Access: Take the free City Circle Tram to Victoria Market stop or tram 58 (myki required) from your campus. Open Tue, Thu-Sun, 8 AM-3 PM; check QVM’s website for hours. No ticket needed—just walk in!
• Student Perk: Bargain for deals on snacks or souvenirs; bring $5-$10 for affordable eats like dumplings.

Tip: Visit the Wednesday night market (summer only) for free live music.

4. Ride the Free City Circle Tram (Free)

The City Circle Tram is a free, narrated ride through Melbourne’s key sights, like Federation Square, Docklands, and Parliament House.

• Why Go? It’s a no-cost way to explore the CBD.
• How to Access: Hop on at any City Circle stop (look for maroon trams) from 10 AM-6 PM daily. No myki or ticket needed. Start at Flinders Street Station for convenience. Details at Public Transport Victoria.
• Student Perk: Pair with free laneway walks to maximize your day without spending.

5. Admire Street Art in Hosier Lane (Free)

Hosier Lane, a colorful laneway near Federation Square, is a free open-air gallery of ever-changing street art and murals.

• Why Go? It’s a must for Instagram-worthy photos and Melbourne’s creative vibe.
• How to Access: Walk 3 minutes from Federation Square or take a free City Circle Tram to Flinders Street. No booking required; visit anytime (early mornings for fewer crowds). Free walking tours available via What’s On Melbourne—book online, tip-based.
• Student Perk: Free to explore; nearby cafés offer student discounts (show ID).

Why It’s Cool: Artists refresh the walls regularly, so every visit feels new.

6. Relax at St Kilda Beach (Free)

St Kilda Beach offers free access to sandy shores, a scenic pier, and penguin sightings at dusk, just 20 minutes from the CBD.

• Why Go? It’s a budget-friendly spot for beach vibes and socializing.
• How to Access: Take tram 96 from Bourke Street (myki required, $5 daily fare) to St Kilda. Walk the pier anytime; penguin tours are free (arrive at 7 PM, no booking). Check Port Phillip Council for penguin viewing tips.
• Student Perk: Free volleyball courts; bring your own ball or join pickup games.

7. Attend Free Events at Federation Square (Free)

Federation Square, Melbourne’s cultural hub, hosts free events like film screenings, live music, and festivals (e.g., Lunar New Year).

• Why Go? It’s a lively spot to connect with other students.
• How to Access: Walk from Flinders Street Station or take a free City Circle Tram to Federation Square. Browse Fed Square’s calendar for free events; most require no registration. Open 24/7 for casual visits.
• Student Perk: Free Wi-Fi and study spaces at ACMI; show student ID for event discounts.

8. Study at State Library Victoria (Free)

State Library Victoria, Australia’s oldest public library, offers free Wi-Fi, study rooms, and stunning spaces like the La Trobe Reading Room.

• Why Go? It’s a student-friendly spot for studying and socializing.
• How to Access: Walk 5 minutes from Melbourne Central Station (myki train fare, $5 daily). Open Mon-Thu 10 AM-9 PM, Fri-Sun 10 AM-6 PM. No entry fee; check State Library Victoria for free exhibit schedules. Walk-in access, no booking needed.
• Student Perk: Free book clubs and talks—sign up online with your student email.

9. Join Free Festivals and Cultural Events (Free)

Melbourne’s festival scene is unbeatable, with free events like Moomba, Pride March, or cultural celebrations (Diwali, Tet).

• Why Go? It’s a fun, no-cost way to experience Melbourne’s diversity.
• How to Access: Check What’s On Melbourne or uni event boards for schedules. Most festivals are in the CBD, reachable by free City Circle Tram. No tickets needed for public events; arrive early for best spots.
• Student Perk: The My Melbourne Program offers free festival tickets for international students—register at City of Melbourne with your student ID.

10. Tour the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or Watch Free Sports Broadcasts

The MCG is Melbourne’s sports mecca, hosting AFL and cricket. While tours cost $30, you can enjoy free sports vibes at nearby pubs or uni screenings.

• Why Go? It’s a way to join Melbourne’s sports craze without spending.
• How to Access: For free vibes, head to The Corner Hotel (Richmond, tram 70, myki required) for match screenings—no entry fee, just buy a $5 drink. Check uni clubs for free AFL watch parties (listed on student union sites). For tours, book via MCG’s website with student discounts.
• Student Perk: Show your ID for $5 off MCG tours or uni event perks.

Quick Win: Join a uni sports club for free social matches at local parks.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne is a dream destination for international students, with free activities that let you explore its culture, nature, and community without stretching your budget. From strolling Hosier Lane to catching penguins at St Kilda, these experiences will make your time here unforgettable. Grab your myki, rally your mates, and start exploring!