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Melbourne

Always alive. Never Mel-boring!


Got a passion? Melbourne’s got a match!

Melbourne’s buzzing energy will have you falling head over heels from the moment you arrive. From bustling thoroughfares to quirky laneways and charming arcades waiting to be discovered, this city is filled with delightful surprises at every turn.

Dive straight into Melbourne’s vibrant lifestyle, whether that’s sipping vino at cosy wine bars, treating your tastebuds at iconic eateries, catching a thrilling game, or hunting down one-of-a-kind finds in colourful boutique stores.

Venture beyond the CBD and explore Melbourne’s diverse neighbourhoods: wander Lygon Street for a true taste of Italy, soak up Fitzroy’s creative vibes, or stroll the sands and sample seaside life in St Kilda. And when you’re ready for more, Melbourne is your gateway to Victoria’s vine-tastic wineries, soothing natural springs, breathtaking coastlines, and alpine villages straight out of a fairytale.

Chat to our Melbourne travel specialists today to create your perfect holiday.

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Flight time

A 4-hour flight from Auckland will land you in Melbourne, one of Australia’s most vibrant cities.

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Best time to go

The best times to visit Melbourne are during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November. These months offer mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods and cultural attractions.

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Time difference

Melbourne is 2 hours behind New Zealand, so you’ll need to set your watch back slightly.

Our favourite things to do in Melbourne

Melbourne Streets

Wander through Melbourne's hidden laneways

Melbourne's lively laneways have an Alice in Wonderland feel - you never know what lies around the next corner.

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Road along the coast

Cruise the famous Great Ocean Road

Hire a car, grab some snacks and cue up Spotify for what might be most staggeringly beautiful drive you’ll make.

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Women looking out the window of the train

Do a classic “dine and dance” evening onboard a steam train

Get date night back on track when you step into the romance of train travel onboard Puffing Billy.

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Margarita pizza coming out of the oven

Feast in Little Italy

If you want real parmesan, cut from the block, grated over your pasta with a twist of style, Lygon Street is the place ot go.

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People shopping

Shop 'til you drop!

The shopping and fashion culture of Melbourne is one that is almost impossible to keep up with, but it is so fun to try!

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Person getting ready to play tennis

Game, set, match

Love Tennis? There's no better time to visit than mid-to-late January when the Australian Open takes over for two weeks.

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View of the outside of the MCG

Go behind the scenes at Melbourne’s sporting venues

Take an unforgettable guided tour of the MCG and visit the National Sports Museum to discover what makes Australia such a great sporting country.

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Hot air balloon over Yarra Valley

Take a day trip to Yarra Valley

Did you even go to Melbourne if you didn’t make the 1-hour trip to Yarra Valley?

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93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"Nicole was incredible at helping us figure out what was possible for us and our holiday (because we weren't sure when we initially came in) and her enthusiasm was amazing ??"

Paige

"I Firstly gave her incorrect information, and based on that she created a full itinerary for me only for me to change all details. She was so professional and friendly and within a few hours had rejigged everything which was quite perfect. She was brilliant!"

Fiona

"She listens well. She goes the extra mile with finding solutions and her experience is an asset with us being able to relax knowing she is reliable. She is our first go to for all international travel."

Paul

Meet our Melbourne specialists

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Robyn Oretsky

Robyn Oretsky

House of Travel Wellington City

For me, travel has been more than just a series of destinations,  it has been a transformative journey that has sculpted my character and contributed to my personal evolution.  My travel experiences are not merely about ticking off destinations from a bucket list, but about immersing myself in the heart and soul of each place I’ve visited visit.  

My early travels began with frequent road trips around my home country of Canada and the USA, and I am fortunate enough to have now been to six of the seven continents.  Exploring the world through various modes of transportation has been a thrilling adventure for me, from cruise ships, to trains, to rickshaws, and I have an appreciation for the experiences that local transport offers.  I am comfortable with sleeping in a hammock in the rainforest, an overwater bungalow in the South Pacific, and everything in between.  

My experiences have taught me to adapt to different situations and understand diverse perspectives, and my background in customer service and sales has equipped me with valuable skills that I believe make me well-suited for various client needs. I believe this makes me well-suited to meet your needs as a client. Whether it's finding solutions to problems or anticipating your preferences, I strive to provide an exceptional service tailored to you. My aim is to not just meet but exceed your expectations by drawing on my varied background.

My enthusiasm for travel is infectious, and it is my goal to inspire others to embark on their own adventures and discover the beauty of our planet.


Robyn
Nicole Hogan

Nicole Hogan

House of Travel The Square

I am a cruise specialist who lives and breathes travel, I have a wide range of skills and knowledge.

I love the excitement of sitting down with my clients to share my experiences from around the world and help plan their trip of a lifetime!

Nicole

Laura Cook

Laura Cook

House of Travel Whanganui

Hey there!

I'm Laura, the smiley face you'll spot as soon as you walk through our office door. With a serious case of wanderlust, I've done it all - lived abroad, cruised the seas, island hopped, even cruised around South Africa on the back of a motorbike! I am all about the adventure. But let me tell you about my ultimate love affair - Africa!

For three wild years, I bounced between Australia and South Africa, travelled to almost every corner on the bake of a motorbike. I’ve sat with Elephants for hours, seen the big cats hunting, slept under the stars in the middle of a game reserve. My heart belongs to the wildlife, and if you're an animal lover like me, trust me, Africa is the place to be.

They say home is where the heart is, and I left a piece of mine in Africa. Nothing makes me happier than helping others experience its magic. Sure, I'm a newbie in the travel industry, but exploring the world has been my jam since day one. The more I learn, the more excited I get about sharing the adventure with you!

So, whatever you are dreaming of, I'm here to make your travel dreams come true!


Laura

Leanne Newton

Leanne Newton

House of Travel Upper Riccarton

Experiencing travel through the eyes of my daughter, has given me a whole new perspective and thirst for travel. 

It enables me to slow my pace, look around and just enjoy being in the moment as she interacts with local people. 

It brings back that feeling I had when I first travelled overseas, and I feel so grateful to be able to experience something so meaningful and life changing with my daughter.

Leanne

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FAQS

What is the best time of year to visit Melbourne?
If you want to experience Melbourne's culture and cuisine, nightlife and arts then, travel between March and May or September and November, when the weather is mild and the city is full of life. Enjoy the spring and autumn colours in Melbourne's parks and gardens, and explore its diverse neighbourhoods. Don't forget to check out Federation Square, St Kilda Beach, the Melbourne Zoo, and the Queen Victoria Market.

Where are the things to do in Melbourne?
Name your passion and Melbourne can match it. Explore Melbourne’s eclectic precincts and fringe suburbs and dive in to uncover quirky restaurants for cheap, filling lunches; coffee worth boasting about; underground art; hidden dens and rooftop bars; green spaces; fancy places; and some good yarns along the way.

Melbourne is the gateway to Victoria’s world-class wineries, natural springs, peninsulas, spectacular coastline and alpine villages. Don't miss a visit to St Kilda Beach, the Melbourne Zoo, and the historic Queen Victoria Market. There is no shortage of things to do in Melbourne, with so much to offer right on your doorstep. If you're planning a holiday in Sydney & NSW, explore our Melbourne travel guide crafted with help from our Melbourne experts to make the most of your trip. 

How to find the best holiday package to Melbourne?
Visit our Melbourne deals section on our website or sign up for our newsletter to get the latest holiday package deals sent straight to your email.

Where to stay in Melbourne?
Melbourne offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget. The CBD is perfect for those who want to be close to major attractions and public transport. For a more bohemian vibe, consider staying in Fitzroy or Carlton. Southbank and Docklands offer modern hotels with stunning city views.

What should I pack for my trip to Melbourne?
Melbourne's weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers. Include comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket, and an umbrella. In the summer months bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. In the winter (June to August), pack warmer clothing and a coat.

Do I need travel insurance for Melbourne?
Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance for your trip to Melbourne. We offer a range of travel insurance options suitable for travel to Australia. Find more information on our website.

Can I use New Zealand dollars in Melbourne?
No, you will need to exchange your New Zealand dollars (NZD) for Australian dollars (AUD). Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and exchange bureaus. Most credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

Do I need to hire a car to get around in Melbourne?
Hiring a car is not essential in Melbourne as it has extensive public transport system, which includes trams, trains, and buses. The free City Circle Tram is great for getting around the CBD. However, we recommend renting a car if you plan to explore the beautiful regional Victoria.

Where is the best place for shopping in Melbourne?
Melbourne is a shopper's paradise with a variety of options. Visit Bourke Street Mall for high-street fashion, Chadstone Shopping Centre for luxury brands, and Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce and unique souvenirs. Explore the laneways and arcades in the CBD for boutique shopping and quirky finds.

How can I get around Melbourne without a car?
Melbourne has an efficient public transport system. Use trams, trains, and buses to get around the city. The Myki card is a convenient way to pay for all public transport. For shorter trips, consider rideshare services like Uber and taxis.


Where are the best places in Melbourne for food and drink?
Melbourne is Australia's culinary capital so whether you're craving Italian, Asian, or something else, Melbourne has you covered. You'll find mouth-watering restaurants and cafes all over the city, but here are some of our favourites. For a taste of Italy, head to Lygon Street in Carlton and enjoy pizza, pasta, and gelato. For a variety of Asian flavours, check out Chinatown in the CBD and sample dumplings, noodles, and more. For the best brunch in town, don't miss Fitzroy and Collingwood, where you'll find hip cafes and cool bars. Make sure you try the best coffee and bagels in Melbourne at Manchester Press café in a converted warehouse in Rankins Lane - it's usually packed, so get there early.

What are some family-friendly activities in Melbourne?
Melbourne is a great destination for families. There's plenty of things to do for the whole family in Melbourne from interactive museums and kids' festivals to zoos and wildlife parks. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the Royal Botanic Gardens, explore the interactive exhibits at Scienceworks and the Melbourne Museum. If you are looking for some fun and excitement, take a trip to Luna Park in St Kilda for amusement rides and games.

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