14 Lookouts for the Best Views of Melbourne
Melbourne is home to thriving art scenes, colourful alleyways, and top-notch coffee. There's a lot to see and do in this thriving cultural centre, but one thing you really must do is take in the stunning Melbourne skyline.
Melbourne is not just known for its skyscrapers, but also for its picture-perfect beaches and breath-taking cliffs. While Melbourne's terrain is relatively level, its city skyline is anything but. Fortunately, the city is home to a plethora of lookouts and vantage points where early risers, day trippers, and night owls alike may enjoy the city's breathtaking panoramas. If you're seeking to escape the city, though, Victoria is home to some of the best road trips in the country, as well as some of the state's most easily accessible and breathtaking waterfalls. We’ve rounded up some of Melbourne's most breath-taking vistas, and just remember to not leave home without your phone; you'll want to take pictures of these spots!
Eureka Skydeck
At Eureka Skydeck, you can see Melbourne from 88 floors up! Eureka Skydeck provides the highest vantage point for the greatest views of Melbourne any time, but especially at night. You will ascend 88 storeys above the ground in this location using the Southern Hemisphere's quickest elevator (285 metres in under 38 seconds!). Eureka Tower was the tallest residential structure in the world when it first constructed in 2006, but it wouldn't be fair if only renters could take in the amazing views. Fortunately for us, Melbourne's 360-degree Skydeck opened in May 2007 on the 88th floor. Those looking for a thrill can step out onto the Edge, a 3 m glass cube suspended 300 m above Southbank. It doesn't get much better than this vantage point, where on a clear day you can see sites up to 75 kilometres away. Eureka Skydeck is open daily from 10am to 10pm.
Royal Park, Parkville
There is a lot of greenery nearby to contrast the distant concrete jungle, which makes the hill besides the Royal Park an excellent vantage point for views over the city. The Native Grasslands Circle in Royal Park, which is close by and is located behind the Royal Children's Hospital, also provides excellent views of the city because it feels like you are on an even footing with it. You can even hears the roars and noises from all the critters at Melbourne Zoo depending on the day and the time.
Albert Park Lake
Head over to Albert Park Lake's Lakeside Lookout for a pleasing view not far from the CBD. Visit Albert Park, the location for the famous Australian Grand Prix's which contains a large lake and is surrounded by beautifully designed gardens and walking routes. From here, you may can a stunning view of Melbourne's cityscape. There’s also plenty of swans and birdlife that contribute to an amazing photograph as well.
100 Steps of Federation, Altona Meadows
For another great view of Melbourne's skyline, head to Truganina Park where The 100 Steps to Federation will take you to the highest point of land between the You Yangs and city. The '100 Steps to Federation' goes to the summit of the 17m high hill that was previously the Altona Tip. Clay and soil have been used to cap the tip. The stone staircase is built of basalt rock recovered from when the region was a clean-fill tip. There are some fantastic views of the city and bay when the weather is favourable. You can take spectacular photos of the city (backlit at sunrise or sunset reflections) in the distance over the verdant hills and wetlands, the salt flats to the west, or the meandering step walk up to the sculpture.
Rialto Towers
The Rialto Towers have been a feature of Melbourne's skyline for a very long time; with the observation deck opening to the public in 1994. The North Tower is 185 metres tall, while the South Tower is 251 metres tall, making it the seventh-tallest structure in Australia. If you can't wait till dinner to enjoy the sights, stop by Rialto's Lui Bar for a chic drink and breathtaking city views.
The Bolte Bridge
Depending on the occasion, the Bolte Bridge has different lighting! Although you can't access the Bolte Bridge on foot, if you book a GoGet, we suggest driving over it to get a brief shot of the Melbourne skyline. Thanks to the countless lights that are arranged along the structure, this Melbourne landmark takes on a new appearance at night. You can climb one of the piers close to the Victoria Harbour Promenade to get a glimpse of the Bolte Bridge in all its splendour at night.
Shrine of Remembrance
All Australians who have served in the numerous conflicts we have fought are honoured at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne. For a stunning perspective of Melbourne across the lush Kings Domain lawns, explore its sombre halls and climb to the balcony. The Shrine has solemn rooms and exhibits that depict Australia's role in both war and peacekeeping throughout history. The Shrine's balcony outlook outside is the ideal place for some quiet thought and provides a beautiful perspective of the Melbourne skyline. The good news is that this is one of Melbourne's free activities, so you don't have to spend a fortune!
Birrarung Marr
While taking pictures of the skyline from Birrarung Marr, why not pack a picnic and set up a wonderful lunch spot. Birarrung Marr, an urban park north of the Yarra River and close to Federation Square, is another fantastic place to take in the greatest views of Melbourne. The city's business sector can be seen majestically from the park itself. There is a hill near Birrarung Marr that you can climb to get a view of the river and the high-rise buildings that surround the park.
Gem Pier, Williamstown
Williamstown is the location of the city's earliest maritime heritage and one of Port Phillip Bay's busiest ports. Gem Pier also offers some of the city's most picturesque vistas, as well as barbeque and picnic areas. Want to capture the sheer magnificence of Melbourne's skyline? Gem Pier can be found at Williamstown, which is a ferry ride from the CBD or a short drive across the West Gate Bridge. HMAS Castlemaine, a museum and Heritage Honour Ship, is housed on the old pier. By dusk, we advise you to stroll down the dock and take in the picturesque view of the city skyline.
St Kilda Pier
On a clear day, a warm evening, or any time really, head to St Kilda Pier for a spectacular view of Melbourne! St Kilda Pier is another excellent location for a stunning Melbourne sunset, is the ideal place to experience waterside views, salt air, and Melbourne at night. The charming penguin parade that takes place at twilight is the major attraction at this famous Melburnian pier, or you can rollerblade along the promenade or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Brighton Pier & Brighton Beach
Visit Brighton Pier and bring your furry friends along for the fun. Brighton Pier is a local favourite for its picture-perfect views of Melbourne. Since the pier is close to the Bay Trail, biking, swimming, and fishing are some of the most well-liked activities here. But if you ask us, strolling down the breakwater and enjoying some fish and chips while seeing the Melbourne cityscape from a distance is the best thing to do at Brighton Pier. Visitors and residents alike are drawn to Brighton's Dendy Street Beach by the 82 brightly coloured bathing huts, but turning your back on them will give you a fresh view of Melbourne's skyline. One of the greatest spots to spend a hot New Year's Eve night is at this panoramic skyline view of Melbourne, which is free to enjoy in contrast to the beach boxes, which cost roughly $200,000. Swim, then watch the sunset over the city while keeping your eyes on the view.
Ruckers Hill, Northcote
If you’re in or heading north of the city, then enjoy this majestic vista atop Ruckers Hill in Northcote.
Park on High Street, and take a leisurely stroll up Ruckers Hill where, from this vantage point, you can see a breathtaking view of the Melbourne skyline. Ruckers Hill is also a go-to New Year's Eve site for people who wish to witness the fireworks display.
SkyHigh, Mount Dandenong
At SkyHigh, you can escape the bustle of the city and take in an amazing perspective over Melbourne. Spend your next day out in Melbourne enjoying the breathtaking scenery as well as the delectable bistro fare at SkyHigh on Mount Dandenong. You and your family can have a beautiful picnic outside or go inside the restaurant and gaze out the floor to ceiling windows that overlook the horizon! On a clear day, the metropolitan skyline, the Mornington Peninsula, Port Phillip Bay, and the You Yangs to the west can all be seen from Mount Dandenong's SkyHigh, which overlooks the eastern suburbs. You can eat at the restaurant or café, navigate the hedge maze, stroll through the English Garden, go hiking, or find the Wishing Tree and Percy Possum's House while you are there.
Burkes Lookout, Mount Dandenong
There are a lot of lookouts in the Dandenongs which is good news for explorers. Burkes Lookout requires a nearly ideal day in order to provide breathtaking views of the city. However, at night, when the suburbs are completely lit up and the city can be made out in the distance, we believe it is one you must see for yourself.
Melbourne Hot Air Balloon
Okay this one is a bit of a cheat, but why not soar above Melbourne with an incredible bird’s eye view? By reserving a special hot air balloon ride, you can elevate your experience of the Melbourne sunrise. As you float through the crisp morning air, brace yourself for unprecedented 360-degree vistas of both urban and rural surroundings. Flying over the Yarra River, the Australian Tennis Centre, and the enormous MCG can all be seen. We advise booking a hot air balloon ride with breakfast so you can enjoy it as soon as you arrive if you're travelling with someone special.
