Melbourne is a city that has so much to offer visitors, no matter what time of year they visit. However, the Easter long weekend is a particularly great time to experience the city, as there are plenty of events and activities taking place.
If you have booked your Melbourne Accommodation to visit Melbourne during Easter, one of the first things you should do is take a walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens. This 94-acre park is located just south of the Yarra River and is home to an incredible range of plant species, both native and exotic. You can take a guided tour, or wander through the gardens at your own pace, taking in the beautiful sights and smells.
After a morning in the gardens, head into the city to explore Melbourne's famous laneways. These narrow streets are home to a range of street art, boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can grab a coffee at one of the many independent cafes, or indulge in some retail therapy at the many boutiques and vintage shops. For lunch, head to Degraves Street or Hardware Lane, where you'll find a range of restaurants serving up delicious food from around the world.
If you're interested in art, Melbourne is home to the National Gallery of Victoria, one of Australia's most impressive art museums. The NGV has a large collection of Australian and international art, with everything from classical paintings to contemporary installations. They also host a range of exhibitions throughout the year, so be sure to check what's on during your visit.
No visit to Melbourne would be complete without experiencing the city's food scene. Melbourne is known for its excellent coffee and brunch options, as well as its fine dining. There are plenty of food precincts to explore, including Brunswick, Fitzroy, and Prahran, for something a little different, head to Queen Victoria Market, where you'll find a range of food vendors selling everything from fresh produce to hot jam doughnuts.
If you're looking to escape the city for a day, there are plenty of great day trips you can take from Melbourne. The Yarra Valley wine region is just an hour's drive from the city and is home to some of Australia's best wineries. You can spend a day tasting wine and enjoying the beautiful countryside. Alternatively, head down the Great Ocean Road, where you'll see some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the country, including the famous Twelve Apostles.
Back in the city, there are plenty of Easter-themed events to enjoy. The Good Friday Appeal is a major fundraising event that takes place every year on Good Friday. There are various activities taking place across the city, including a charity run and a live telethon. If you're travelling with kids, there are also plenty of Easter egg hunts taking place, including one at Luna Park.
For animal lovers, a visit to the Melbourne Zoo is a must. The zoo is home to more than 320 species of animals from around the world, including tigers, elephants, and giraffes. There are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with the animals, including behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters.
If you're a sports fan, Melbourne has plenty to offer. The city is home to several major sports venues, including the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and AAMI Park. You can catch a game of AFL (Australian Rules Football), soccer, or rugby, depending on the season. There are also plenty of sports bars around the city where you can watch live games with locals.
Finally, if you're looking for some relaxation, Melbourne has plenty of options. You can head to one of the many day spas around the city for a massage or facial, or take a dip in one of the city's public swimming pools. For a truly unique experience, book a hot air balloon ride over the city.