If you’re planning a trip to Melbourne, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of cheap things to do that won’t break the bank. From exploring the city’s vibrant art scene to enjoying the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re on a tight budget or just looking to save some money, you’ll find plenty of fun and affordable activities to keep you entertained.
One of the best ways to enjoy Melbourne on a budget is by shopping at the city’s many markets. From fresh produce to unique souvenirs, you’ll find everything you need at a fraction of the cost of traditional retail stores. You can also explore the city’s many free galleries and museums, which offer a wealth of cultural experiences without costing a penny. And if you’re looking for budget dining and entertainment options, you’ll find plenty of great restaurants and bars that won’t break the bank.
Key Takeaways
- Melbourne offers plenty of affordable activities for budget-conscious travellers.
- Shopping at markets, visiting free galleries and museums, and enjoying budget dining and entertainment are great ways to save money.
- With so many cheap things to do in Melbourne, you can enjoy the city without overspending.
Shopping on a Budget

Melbourne is a shopper’s paradise, but you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy it. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, deals, or craft beer, there are plenty of options for shopping on a budget.
One of the best places to find souvenirs is at the Queen Victoria Market. This historic market has been around for over 140 years and offers a wide variety of goods at affordable prices. From clothing and accessories to food and wine, you’re sure to find something to take home with you.
If you’re looking for deals, head to the Direct Factory Outlet South Wharf (DFO). With over 120 factory outlets, you can find great discounts on everything from clothing and shoes to homewares and electronics. Plus, there are often additional sales and promotions to take advantage of.
For craft beer lovers, a visit to the Craft Beer Market is a must. This market features a rotating selection of local and international craft beers at reasonable prices. You can also find unique gifts and souvenirs, such as beer glasses and bottle openers.
Finally, don’t forget to check out the many street markets and pop-up shops around the city. These temporary markets offer a range of goods at affordable prices, from handmade crafts to vintage clothing. Keep an eye out for flyers and posters advertising upcoming markets, or simply wander the streets and see what you can find.
With so many options for shopping on a budget, you can enjoy all that Melbourne has to offer without breaking the bank.
Budget Dining and Entertainment

Looking for a fun night out in Melbourne without breaking the bank? Look no further than these budget-friendly dining and entertainment options.
Cheap Eats
Melbourne is known for its diverse dining scene, and you don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy it. Check out these restaurants for delicious food at affordable prices:
- Shanghai Street Dumplings: This popular spot serves up steaming baskets of dumplings for just a few dollars a plate.
- Gami Chicken and Beer: For some of the best Korean fried chicken in town, head to Gami. They also have great deals on beer and wine.
- Lord of the Fries: Vegetarians and vegans will love this fast food joint, which serves up tasty burgers, hot dogs, and fries at very reasonable prices.
Happy Hours
If you’re looking for a cheap drink, Melbourne has plenty of happy hour specials to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites:
- The Toff in Town: This rooftop bar has one of Melbourne’s cheapest happy hours, with $5 pints and $5 glasses of wine.
- The Imperial Hotel: Head to this classic pub for $5 pints of beer and $5 glasses of wine every weekday from 4-6pm.
- The Carlton Club: This funky bar has $10 cocktails and $6 pints of beer during their daily happy hour from 4-7pm.
Karaoke Nights
For a fun night out with friends, why not hit up a karaoke bar? Melbourne has plenty of options, from private karaoke rooms to coin-operated singing booths. Here are a few of our top picks:
- KBox Karaoke: This popular chain has private karaoke rooms for groups of all sizes, with rates starting at just $8 per person.
- Ding Dong Lounge: This live music venue also hosts regular karaoke nights, with a great selection of songs and a lively atmosphere.
- Jankara Karaoke: If you’re looking for a more traditional karaoke experience, head to Jankara for coin-operated singing booths and a huge selection of songs.
No matter what your budget, Melbourne has plenty of options for a fun night out. So grab some friends and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer!
Free Things to Do in Melbourne

Melbourne is a city that offers a lot of free things to do, so you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a good time. Here are some of the best free things to do in Melbourne that you can enjoy on a budget.
Visiting Libraries
Melbourne has some of the most beautiful libraries in the world, and they are all free to visit. The State Library of Victoria is one of the most popular libraries in Melbourne, and it’s easy to see why. This library has a stunning reading room, and it’s a great place to spend a few hours reading or studying. The library also offers free tours, so you can learn more about its history and architecture.
Exploring Beaches
Melbourne has some of the best beaches in Australia, and the best part is that they are all free to visit. St Kilda Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Melbourne, and it’s a great place to go for a swim or a walk. The beach also has a pier that offers great views of the city skyline. Brighton Beach is another popular beach in Melbourne, and it’s famous for its colourful beach huts. You can take a tram to both of these beaches, which makes them even more accessible.
BBQ in Parks
Melbourne has some beautiful parks, and they are all free to visit. One of the best things to do in these parks is to have a BBQ with your friends or family. The Royal Botanic Gardens is one of the most popular parks in Melbourne, and it’s a great place to have a BBQ. The park has free BBQ facilities that you can use, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Overall, Melbourne is a city that offers a lot of free things to do, so you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a good time. Whether you want to visit a library, explore a beach, or have a BBQ in a park, there are plenty of free things to do in Melbourne that you can enjoy.
Budget Travel and Accommodation

Excited to explore the vibrant city of Melbourne on a budget? Here are some tips to help you save money on travel and accommodation.
Transportation
Melbourne has an excellent public transportation system that includes trains, trams, and buses. You can purchase a myki card, which is a reusable smart card that allows you to travel on all public transport in Melbourne. The myki card can be purchased at train stations, convenience stores, and online.
If you prefer to explore the city on foot or by bike, Melbourne has many bike rental options and walking tours that are affordable and fun.
Accommodation
Melbourne offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodation options, including hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels. Staying in the city centre can be expensive, so consider staying in the suburbs where prices are lower.
You can also save money by booking your accommodation in advance and by using websites that offer discounts and deals on accommodation, such as Booking.com or Expedia.
Melbourne Airport
Melbourne Airport is located approximately 22 km from the city centre. To save money on transportation to and from the airport, consider taking the SkyBus, which is an affordable and convenient shuttle service that operates 24/7. You can purchase tickets online or at the airport.
Rental Prices
If you plan on renting a car in Melbourne, be aware that rental prices can be high. To save money, book your rental car in advance and compare prices from different rental companies. You can also consider using ride-sharing services or car-sharing services, such as Car Next Door, which can be more affordable than traditional car rentals.
Save Money
To save money on your trip to Melbourne, consider purchasing a Melbourne Discount Card, which offers discounts on attractions, tours, and restaurants. You can also save money by eating at local markets and food trucks, which offer affordable and delicious food options.
By following these tips, you can enjoy all that Melbourne has to offer without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Melbourne is a city that is full of life and energy, and it is possible to have a fantastic time here without spending a lot of money. Whether you are interested in culture, nature, sports, or just having fun, there are plenty of cheap things to do in Melbourne that will keep you entertained.
From wandering through the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria to exploring the Melbourne Museum, there are many attractions in Melbourne that are free or very affordable. You can also take advantage of the city’s excellent public transport system and hop on the City Circle Tram for a free tour of the city.
If you are looking for something a bit more active, there are many outdoor activities to enjoy in Melbourne, such as hiking in the Dandenong Ranges or cycling along the Yarra River. You can also take a dip in the ocean at St Kilda Beach or enjoy a picnic in one of the city’s many parks.
For sports fans, Melbourne is a dream destination, with the Melbourne Cricket Ground and the Australian Open Tennis Championships both offering affordable tickets. And if you are looking for a bit of culture, there are many galleries and museums to explore, such as the National Gallery of Victoria and the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art.
Overall, Melbourne is a city that has something for everyone, and you don’t need to break the bank to have a great time here. So pack your bags, grab your wallet, and get ready to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some fun and affordable activities to do in Melbourne?
Melbourne has plenty of fun and affordable activities to offer. You can explore the city’s vibrant street art scene, take a stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens, or visit the Melbourne Museum. You can also enjoy a picnic at one of the city’s many parks, catch a movie at a local cinema, or go on a bike ride along the Yarra River.
Where can I find free events and activities in Melbourne?
Melbourne is known for its many free events and activities. You can check out the weekly Queen Victoria Market, which offers a wide range of food, clothing, and other goods. You can also visit the National Gallery of Victoria, which offers free admission to its permanent collection. The city also hosts many free festivals throughout the year, such as the Melbourne International Jazz Festival and the Melbourne Fringe Festival.
How can I experience Melbourne on a budget?
There are many ways to experience Melbourne on a budget. You can take advantage of the city’s extensive public transport system, which includes trams, trains, and buses. You can also save money by eating at local markets and food trucks, rather than expensive restaurants. Additionally, you can stay in budget-friendly accommodation, such as hostels or Airbnb rentals.
What are some cheap things to do with friends in Melbourne?
Melbourne offers many cheap things to do with friends. You can have a picnic at the Royal Botanic Gardens, go on a hike at the Dandenong Ranges, or visit the St. Kilda Beach. You can also explore the city’s many laneways, which are home to some of the city’s best street art and cafes.
What are some must-see attractions in Melbourne that won’t break the bank?
Melbourne has many must-see attractions that won’t break the bank. You can visit the iconic Flinders Street Station, take a stroll through Federation Square, or explore the city’s many museums and galleries. You can also visit the Royal Exhibition Building, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What are some unique and inexpensive shopping options in Melbourne?
Melbourne is known for its unique and inexpensive shopping options. You can visit the Queen Victoria Market, which offers a wide range of food, clothing, and other goods. You can also explore the city’s many vintage and second-hand stores, such as Retrostar Vintage Clothing and Hunter Gatherer. Additionally, you can visit the many local markets, such as the Rose Street Artists’ Market and the South Melbourne Market.
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