THE 10 CLOSEST Hotels to Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Journey through a world of wildlife in the heart of Melbourne. Over 250 species from around the world can be found in the beautiful setting of Melbourne Zoo, just five minutes from the city centre. Stroll through the lush Asian and African rainforests, Australian bushland and even underwater! Walk where tigers roam and monkeys swing from tree to tree. See eye-to-eye with the Orang-utans in their special elevated exhibit, explore the Trail of Elephants and then head down the bush track to see unique Australian wildlife including koalas, kangaroos, wombats and emus. Submerge yourself in our underwater world to see Victoria's iconic Little Penguins, Australian Fur Seals and more! Meet the Keeper: Hear our expert keepers give daily talks about the animals in their care. Close-up Encounters: Book a close-up encounter with one of our animals for a great photo opportunity. Melbourne Zoo is also the proud winner of the Victoria Tourism Awards RACV People’s Choice category, voted by Victorians as their Favourite Metro Attraction in both 2015 and 2016!

Discover creatures of the Southern Ocean in the 2-million-litre oceanarium. Melbourne SEA LIFE aquarium is home to King and Gentoo penguins, nurse sharks and a mega croc.

The Yarra River’s journey begins on the southern slopes of the Great Dividing Range and twists through the forested valleys of the Yarra Ranges and its quaint regional towns before concluding its journey on the muddy flats of Port Phillip Bay. Elemental to Melbourne’s identity, the Yarra River is one of Victoria’s iconic waterways. It has spiritual and cultural significance for Aboriginal communities. To the Wurundjeri people the river, known as Birrarung, was the life source and an important meeting place. And, to many locals, where happy memories of personal pilgrimages, peaceful summer evenings, and days exploring were made. Board one of the river cruises from Southbank to explore the lower reaches of the Yarra, follow the Capital City Trail on foot or bike, canoe or kayak all or part of its 240-kilometre expanse, or set up for a scenic sunset barbecue or picnic on the banks of the river.

Fitzroy Gardens is one of Melbourne’s most historic and beautiful Gardens. Originally set aside as a reserve in 1848, the layout follows a classic Victorian–era design, featuring pathways lined with magnificent Elm trees, and a variety of flowers, ornamental shrubs and trees which together with extensive lawns create a diverse and layered landscape. Points of interest include the magnificent floral displays in the Spanish mission style Conservatory. Cooks Cottage, a scarred tree, the Fairies’ Tree and model tudor village, sculptures, fountains and a stormwater cleaning and re-use system. The Fitzroy Gardens visitor centre provides tourism information and entry tickets to Cooks Cottage. A free guided walking tour departs from the visitor centre every Saturday at 10am. Refreshments are available from KereKere cafe at the visitor centre.

Dandenong Ranges National Park is a rainforest getaway on Melbourne's doorstep. This is a place of tranquil forest walks, quaint hilltop towns and charismatic animals. Conquer the famous 1000 Steps, discover Olinda Falls and enjoy stunning views over Melbourne and the Yarra Valley. Here you'll find steep volcanic hills covered in stands of the world's tallest flowering tree, the Mountain Ash. Living among the greenery are wallabies, lyrebirds, wombats and the Powerful Owl. Please ensure you leave your dogs at home to avoid disturbing the local wildlife. Take an energetic walk up the 1000 Steps from Ferntree Gully Picnic Area and learn about its poignant association with Australia's Second World War veterans and the Kokoda Track Campaign.

An icon of Melbourne’s history opens its doors to a unique view unseen for 100 years. The guided tour of the Royal Exhibition Building Dome allows visitors to experience spectacular views along with an exhibition that explores the building’s significant history and varied uses over time. With its origins steeped in history, the Royal Exhibition Building was built for the 1880 Melbourne International Exhibition. As a key attraction of the 1880 and 1888 international exhibitions, the Dome Promenade provided visitors a unique opportunity to overlook the gardens and view the Melbourne skyline. On 1 July 2004, it became the first building in Australia to achieve a World Heritage listing. Today, with its meticulously restored interior, expansive galleries and soaring dome, the building – beautiful inside and out – continues to offer an impressive setting for trade shows, fairs and cultural and community events. Don't miss out and visit this true Melbourne's landmark. Bookings essential.