Melbourne
Victoria, Australia
Daily Budget
~A$81
~US$70 · per day
Best Months
Climate
Tropical / Summer
Vibe
Foodie hotspot
Overview
Australia's cultural capital is a backpacker favourite for its world-class street art, coffee culture, live music scene, and incredible food. While not technically on the east coast route north to Cairns, most backpackers either start or finish here. The city's Free Tram Zone and abundant free attractions make it surprisingly budget-friendly for a major Australian city.
Editor's Pick
Melbourne stands out for: Australia's arts, coffee, and food capital with a creative energy unmatched on the continent; Famous laneway street art, rooftop bars, and live music venues; Free Tram Zone covers the entire CBD and Docklands — zero transport cost for central sightseeing.
Things to Do
View all 8 activitiesBar hop through rooftop bars and hidden laneway cocktail spots
Bar hop through rooftop bars and hidden laneway cocktail spots
Day trip to the Great Ocean Road to see the Twelve Apostles
Day trip to the Great Ocean Road to see the Twelve Apostles (book a backpacker tour from $80 AUD)
Top Hostels
View all 6 hostels
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Daily (AUD) | Daily (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | A$30 | $26 |
| Food | A$20 | $17 |
| Transport | A$6 | $6 |
| Activities | A$10 | $9 |
| Total | ~A$81 | ~$70 |
Hostels
6 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
8 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Melbourne?
- Budget around A$81 AUD (~US$70) per day in Melbourne, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Melbourne?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Melbourne are Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Melbourne?
- Top-rated hostels in Melbourne include United Backpackers Melbourne, Nomads St Kilda, Victoria Hotel Backpackers. Prices for a dorm bed typically start from A$23 per night.
- What are the top things to do in Melbourne?
- Must-do activities in Melbourne include Bar hop through rooftop bars and hidden laneway cocktail spots, Day trip to the Great Ocean Road to see the Twelve Apostles, Explore St Kilda Beach and the penguin colony at the breakwater at dusk. There are 8 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
