With the nickname The Garden City and The Cultural Capital of Australia Melbourne is the ideal coastal city to explore by foot. There are leisurely Melbourne city walks to the scenic coastal walks, there is something for everyone.
Having more nice walks in Melbourne than you can count will allow you to find some hidden treasure in the city. You can walk along the Yarra River, ambulate through the gardens, and stroll slowly through historical neighbourhoods. You are able to choose the pace of your journey in each one of these walks. Each route you take is all part of the unique experience and I can honestly say are some of the Best Walks in Melbourne.
1. Yarra River
Snake PatRoyal Botanic Gardensh at a glance for urban landscapes
The walking route at a glance
Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Walking time: about 1.5 hours
Level of difficulty: easy
Travel time from city centre: 5 minutes (walking)
Before you go
wear comfortable walking shoes
There are numerous cafes and picnic locations along the route
all ages and fitness are welcome
Best time to walk
Spring and autumn have the most comfortable weather for walking.
Starting point
Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Opening hours
Open 24 hours
Explore walking tours along Melbourne’s Yarra River
2. Royal Botanic Gardens
Best for nature enthusiasts
The walk in brief
Distance: 2 miles (3.24 km)
Walk time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Travel from city centre: 15 minutes (tram)
What to Know before you Go
Make sure to bring a camera to capture the various plants!
Entry is free but donations do help!
If you would like, there are guided walks to participate in.
Best time to walk
Spring is a great time to see flowers in bloom and nice weather.
Starting point
Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne 3004, Australia
Opening times
7:30 am – 5:30 pm
Experiences near Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens
3. St. Kilda Beach
Best for coastal views
The walking route in brief
Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km)
Walking time: Approximately 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Travel time from city centre: 20 minutes via tram
Things to know before you go
Consider sunscreen and a hat if it is sunny
There are several eating options along Acland Street
Most ideal time to walk
Summer is best for beach fun and some stunning sunsets
Starting Point
42B, Marine Parade, St Kilda 3182, Australia
Opening hours
Open 24 hours
Explore top experiences near Melbourne’s St Kilda Beach
4. Fitzroy Gardens
Best for historic gardens
The walking route overview
Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
Estimated walking time: 1 hour
Difficulty: easy
Travel/transfer time from city: About 10 minutes (walking)
More things to know before you go
There is free public entry to the gardens. However, Captain Cook’s Cottage charges a small fee.
There are plenty of shaded areas to sit and places to rest.
Best time to walk
If you want to avoid crowds, early morning or late in the afternoon is best (after it opens), it gets busier mid-morning.
Starting location
Fitzroy Garden, Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia
Opening hours
24 hours
Cook’s Cottage 10:00 AM—4:00 PM
Best things to do near Melbourne’s Fitzroy Gardens
5. Brighton Beach to Elwood
Best for coastal views
The walking trail at a glance
Length: 3 miles (4.8 km)
Walking time: roughly an hour and 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Travel time (from city centre): 25 minutes (train)
Before you go
There are cafés and picnic stops on the route.
A good walk for families and walkers alike.
Best time to walk
Late afternoon is best as you’ll get great sunsets over Port Phillip Bay.
Start
Brighton Beach, Brighton VIC 3186, Australia
Hours
Open 24 hours
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FAQs: Best Walks in Melbourne
1. Is walking good in Melbourne?
Melbourne has a great walkability factor and a multitude of routes that can be taken while strolling along its parks, beaches and within popular suburbs. The city is laid out conveniently so you can walk to many attractions.
2. Where to walk on the coast in Melbourne?
St. Kilda Beach Walk and Brighton Beach Walk is a popular coastal walk that has beautiful views of Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne skyline.
3. Are there good hike options close to Melbourne?
The Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Valley offer great hiking just outside Melbourne and have trails available for all fitness levels.
4. Best area in Melbourne for walking tours?
You could walk around the CBD and surrounds such as Fitzroy and South Yarra. In these areas there is no shortage of available walking tours of Melbourne where you can enjoy a bit of our history, culture, plus a little foodie part too!
5. Which Melbourne walks are best for families or children?
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens, and it is kind of a walk but St Kilda Beach Walk all offer easy family friendly walks with plenty of sights to see and do along the way.
