Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens: Our most recommended tours and activities

Melbourne: 2-Hour City Highlights River Cruise

1. Melbourne: 2-Hour City Highlights River Cruise

Climb aboard a pleasure boat with a sundeck for a cruise along the Yarra River in Melbourne for a narrated tour. Glide past landmarks including the Polly Woodside, West Gate Bridge, Southgate, Princes Bridge, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Olympic Park, Herring Island, Botanic Gardens, and more. Cruise past beautiful buildings, skyscrapers, bars, and parks. Catch some sun on the sundeck or enjoy the views from the inside cabin. Enjoy a round-trip journey that allows you to really enhance your knowledge of what is known as one of the "most livable cities in the world." Travel both down river and up river to see highlights such as the Docklands Crown Entertainment Complex, West Gate Bridge, a 19th-century sailing ship, the Polly Woodside, Southgate Arts and Leisure Precinct, and Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Center. Admire up river landmarks, such as Princes Bridge, Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Government House, Olympic Park, Herring Island, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Arts Centre Melbourne, and National Tennis Center where the Australian Open is played.

Melbourne: Private City & Beaches Helicopter Ride

2. Melbourne: Private City & Beaches Helicopter Ride

Discover a bird's-eye-view of Melbourne with this private helicopter tour. Have time to snap some action shots in front of the helicopter before your flight. Enjoy the option of capturing in-flight video recordings or live streams during your flight so you can share your adventure with your friends. Head over to the activity provider's office and get checked in for your flight. As you walk out on to the tarmac you'll be met with incredible views of Melbourne's city skyline, the perfect background for a quick photoshoot in-front of your helicopter before take-off. Protect your ears with the provided headphones and feel the thrill of take-off. Fly by the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and Docklands Marina at just 1,200 feet above the ground (400 metres) on your way out to Port Phillip Bay. Spot the Spirit of Tasmania which is docked at Station Pier.  Make a left-hand turn to fly you along the coast over St Kilda's famous Boardwalk and Luna Park. Your flight path continues over the Formula 1 Track at Albert Park, the Shrine of Remembrance, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).  Finish your tour with the perfect opportunity to capture a photo of the MCG, the Yarra River and CBD all in one frame. Land back at your meeting point at the end of your tour. 

Melbourne: City Sights Discovery Tour

3. Melbourne: City Sights Discovery Tour

Embark on an immersive journey through the wonders of Melbourne, a city renowned for its spectacular landmarks, enchanting gardens, vibrant culture, and rich history. With our knowledgeable guide leading the way, you'll delve into the heart of Melbourne's inner city and uncover its captivating secrets. Begin your adventure at the elegant "Paris-end" of Collins Street, where the fusion of sophistication and vibrant energy sets the tone for your exploration. Immerse yourself in Melbourne's sporting culture as you visit the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground and Sports Precinct, where champions have made history. Capture a picture-perfect moment at the striking St Patrick's Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that radiates serenity and grandeur. Pay tribute to the fallen heroes at the Shrine of Remembrance, a solemn memorial that stands as a symbol of reverence and gratitude. Indulge your senses in the tranquility of the Royal Botanic Gardens, where lush landscapes, vibrant flower beds, and serene lakes create an oasis in the heart of the city. Immerse yourself in art, culture, and natural history as you explore the historic Exhibition Buildings and Melbourne Museum in Carlton Gardens. Experience the lively atmosphere of Lygon Street, known as Melbourne's Little Italy. Then, visit Albert Park, home of the Grand Prix, surrounded by picturesque scenery that adds to the allure of this renowned racing destination. And no visit to Melbourne is complete without a stop at the iconic St Kilda, where you can enjoy the coastal views and catch a glimpse of the whimsical Luna Park. At the end of this captivating journey, you will be conveniently dropped off at central Melbourne city location, allowing you to continue exploring Melbourne's wonders at your leisure or reflect upon the memories of an extraordinary day. Book now and embark on an unforgettable adventure through Melbourne's iconic landmarks, charming gardens, and vibrant culture. Let the city's captivating allure unfold before you as you immerse yourself in its vibrant spirit.

Melbourne: Melbourne Gardens Explorer Minibus Tour

4. Melbourne: Melbourne Gardens Explorer Minibus Tour

Discover the peaceful oasis of Melbourne Gardens on a 30-minute open-air minibus tour. Admire the diverse collection of plants and trees with live commentary along the way. Before and after the tour you are free to wander the gardens at leisure and enjoy the abundant nature to be found. The Melbourne Gardens are popular with bird-watchers with several species of water birds nesting around the ornamental lake. Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne has been a treasured part of Melbourne’s cultural life for more than 170 years. It is a picturesque haven for recreation and an important resource for education, conservation, science, and horticulture. Extending over 38 hectares Melbourne Gardens houses a collection of more than 8,500 species of plants from around the world. The collection includes diverse plant species such as camellias, rainforest flora, cacti and succulents, roses, Californian species, herbs, perennials, and cycads. For the young ones, the Ian Potter Foundation Children's Garden, located at Melbourne Gardens, is a magical place for children to discover the world of plants. It is a tourism award-winning Children's Garden full of interesting and interactive places to play and explore.

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What people are saying about Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens

Overall rating

4.0 / 5

based on 541 reviews

Great 2 hour trip on the Yarra River. We enjoyed the commentary and it’s a good way to learn about Melbourne

Interesting and entertaining information given about Melbourne, very helpful and professional staff!

Very easy web site to access. Courteous and knowledgeable staff at both the kiosk and on the ferry.

The Guide was very knowledgeable of the Yarra River.

A wonderful cruise, the guide was very informative