2026 Docklands Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

🗺️【Itinerary】 Day 1: Depart from Macau, transit in Xiamen, and arrive in Sydney. Check into YEHS Hotel QVB Sydney. Visit Queen Victoria Building, Hyde Park, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Mrs. Macquarie's Chair, Sydney Opera House, and Circular Quay. Day 2: Sydney Aquarium, tour UNSW and University of Sydney, and explore Chinatown. Day 3: Blue Mountains Day Tour. Day 4: Self-drive to Gold Coast, overnight stay at Anna Bay, Ingenia Holidays Middle Rock. Day 5: Continue self-drive, lunch at Port Macquarie, overnight stay at Coffs Harbour, Aqualuna Beach Resort. Day 6: Continue self-drive, lunch at Byron Bay, arrive at Gold Coast, check into Surfers Paradise Tiki Hotel Apartments. Day 7: Surfers Paradise, Q1 Tower Observation Deck, Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum. Day 8: Self-drive to Brisbane, check into Mercure Brisbane Spring Hill, visit City Hall, Queen Street Mall, etc. Day 9: Fly to Melbourne, check into Docklands Discovery Hotel. Day 10: Join Phillip Island Steam Train + Penguin Parade Day Tour. Day 11: Melbourne Museum, State Library Victoria, Chinatown, Monopoly Dreams Melbourne, Royal Arcade, Flinders Street Station, St. Paul's Cathedral, Hosier Lane. Day 12: Queen Victoria Market, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. Day 13: Melbourne to Xiamen, check into Atour S Hotel Xiamen Airport, visit Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street. Day 14: Xiamen to Macau. 📍【Must-Visit Attractions】 1. Queen Victoria Building 2. Hyde Park 3. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney 4. Mrs. Macquarie's Chair 5. Sydney Opera House 6. Circular Quay 7. Sydney Aquarium 8. Surfers Paradise 9. Q1 Tower Observation Deck 10. Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum 11. Phillip Island 12. Melbourne Museum 13. Old Melbourne Gaol 14. State Library Victoria 15. Chinatown 16. Monopoly Dreams Melbourne 17. Royal Arcade 18. Flinders Street Station 19. St. Paul's Cathedral 20. Hosier Lane 21. Queen Victoria Market 22. SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium 23. Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne 🥘【Must-Try Food】 🏠【Recommended Accommodations】 1. YEHS Hotel QVB Sydney 2. Ingenia Holidays Middle Rock 3. Aqualuna Beach Resort 4. Surfers Paradise Tiki Hotel Apartments 5. Mercure Brisbane Spring Hill 6. Docklands Discovery Hotel 7. Atour S Hotel Xiamen Airport 📷【Photo Spots】 📣【Tips】

Melbourne isn’t just a city—it’s a whole vibe 🎶☕. Known as Australia’s cultural capital, it’s full of hidden laneways, world-class coffee, and stunning coastal scenery. Every corner feels like a surprise! 💡 What I loved about Melbourne: • ☕ Coffee culture that’s seriously next-level (every café feels unique!) • 🎨 Street art in Hosier Lane—perfect for photos • 🌊 A day trip along the Great Ocean Road (12 Apostles are breathtaking!) • 🛍️ Vintage shops and local designer finds in Fitzroy • 🌸 Seasonal beauty—autumn leaves, spring gardens, or summer beaches 📍 Tips for Travelers: • Get a Myki card for easy transport • Best explored on foot + trams (don’t miss the free City Circle Tram 🚋) • Book café brunches early on weekends—they get busy! ✨ Melbourne feels like a mix of Europe’s elegance and Australia’s laid-back charm. If you love art, food, and a bit of adventure, this city will capture your heart ❤️.

wooden boardwalk, the sea breeze gently caressing, carrying a faint scent of salt and coffee. The distant Ferris wheel was faintly visible in the morning mist, and the shimmering harbor reflected the glass curtain walls of tall buildings, where modernity and tranquility intertwined. I paused by a sculpture near the harbor, watching yachts glide slowly by, the city's pulse seemingly dancing on the water. At night, the harbor lights twinkled brightly, and the warm glow and laughter from restaurants added a touch of warmth to this waterfront. Victoria Harbour is open for free all day, and its walkways are suitable for morning runs or evening strolls. There's a wide selection of restaurants near the harbor; I recommend trying a seafood platter, priced around 30-50 AUD per person. It's advisable to book a window seat in advance to fully enjoy the harbor view. If you want to experience the scenery from the water, you can rent a kayak for about 25 AUD per hour, which is great fun. Don't miss the Sunday market at Docklands, bustling with a dazzling array of handicrafts and local snacks. The harbor also frequently hosts art festivals or fireworks displays; I recommend checking the local event calendar for free admission, adding pleasant surprises to your trip. I love to take a short break on a bench by the harbor, listening to the seagulls' cries, watching ships sail away, and feeling Melbourne's inclusiveness and vitality. It's only a 10-minute walk to the nearby Marvel Stadium (formerly Etihad Stadium), a worthwhile visit for sports fans. If you have ample time, take the free tram to the city center, which takes only 15 minutes, making it convenient and hassle-free. Victoria Harbour is Melbourne's modern poem, carrying sea breezes and dreams, worth pausing to savor its tranquility and vibrancy.

When in Melbourne, you must visit the sea. If you don't have enough time, visiting the two piers near the city is also a good choice. Melbourne City Marina is an inner harbor surrounded by tall buildings. Although you can't see the beach, the view is wide, the air is fresh, and there are fewer tourists. It's a relatively niche attraction, perfect for relaxing and daydreaming. The other pier, St Kilda Pier, is a more popular attraction. Here, you can ride the Ferris wheel, play parasailing, go down to the beach to surf, and watch the sunset in the evening. At this time of year, you can also walk along the boardwalk to the sea to see the little penguins returning home after sunset (unfortunately, it was too dark to take clear pictures, but there were two little penguins next to the black stones). A reminder for those who want to see the penguins: it can be quite cold and windy by the sea at night, so remember to wear warm clothes, preferably with a hat. The penguins only come ashore after sunset, and we didn't see them until after 9:40 pm.

Located in Melbourne's Docklands, the 'Library at The Dock' is a fantastic library where you can enjoy stunning seaside views. This spot, imbued with the atmosphere of the harbor, is perfect for a casual visit! You can relax and take in the surrounding scenery, making it an ideal place to take a break during your sightseeing. Inside, you'll find unique facilities like a space for playing table tennis and 3D printers, offering more than just a place to read books. The library's distinct atmosphere, different from typical Japanese libraries, is particularly appealing. Its modern and spacious design is impressive, and it provides opportunities to interact with locals. Be sure to visit during your trip.

🔭 Imagine waking up to breathtaking views of the Yarra River right from your cozy, family-friendly room. Melbourne Lifestyle Apartments on Collins Street offers just that - a picturesque urban retreat that feels like home. 🍳 Each apartment is a haven of convenience, decked out with modern cooking amenities and washing facilities, perfect for those extended stays or family vacations. The space is just right, offering a comfortable balance for both relaxation and living. 🚉 With a prime location in the heart of Docklands, you're just steps away from a free tram ride whisking you into Melbourne's vibrant city center in under ten minutes. 🌐 And don't forget - provide your email for a sweet 10% discount on your next booking. Ready for your Aussie adventure? Find us at 893A Collins Street, Docklands, Victoria. #Melbourne #MelbourneHotel #MelbourneTravel

#SummerTravel 🏙️ Melbourne Docklands 👍 Melbourne Docklands is a wonderful place where modern architecture and a beautiful harbor are in harmony. The night view is especially beautiful, making it a perfect place to enjoy an evening stroll. ✔️ Melbourne Docklands exceeded my expectations. I was able to enjoy modern architecture and beautiful scenery while walking along the harbor. The night view is especially great, and the sparkling city lights reflected on the water are truly fantastic. There are various restaurants and cafes, so it is a good place to enjoy a cup of coffee after dinner. There are also many shopping malls and entertainment facilities in Docklands, so there are many things to do all day long. I recommend visiting it at least once during your trip to Melbourne.

Get off at Melbourne Southern Cross Station and walk about 4 minutes to Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Little Collins The second floor for checkin counter, breakfast and public space, very spacious, breakfast for buffet, although not much choice, taste 👌 can eat full. The room is not big, there are daily cleaning, there are 2 pillows: one firm, the other for soft, very warm 👍 can early checkin and later check out, after check-out can temporarily store luggage, the overall stay experience is good. P.S Bring your own slippers and toothpaste toothbrush #Melbourne #travel abroad #accommodation recommendations #convenient transportation

Who is looking for a place to read in Melbourne? We recommend this place, Library of the Dock, a library in the city that is both quiet and has a very beautiful view. 10,000/10 points. The library has 3 floors, with a variety of books. It is divided into zones for reading, children's zones, exercise zones (with ping pong tables), and a computer room. You can choose to sit as you like. You can come alone or with friends without feeling embarrassed. Most importantly, it is free to enter! Come to work and relax. It helps you feel much better. #Sea #Melbourne #Places to visit for children #Library

#melbournetrip Located on the 2nd floor of the World Trade Centre. It is a small museum but interesting content and displays on the Victorian Police Force.You learn more about the history of the police force & the criminal underworld. The copies of the actual reports, hand notes & pictures made it very engaging. There is also a small souvenir shop with Victoria Police Merchandise open to the public and a small section for police staff only Tip: You can get to the museum via a tram (70 or 75) from Flinders station and hop off at stop D6 Flinders St

#melbournetrip It’s one of the largest urban projects adjacent to Melbourne’s CBD, mostly on the banks of Yarra River. Its a modern harbour dominated by colourful harbour front for dining, retail, leisure entertainment. Its home to a number of heritage buildings that have been retained and also landmarks such as the Observation Wheel, Dockland Park etc. #melbourne #docklands #urbanexplorer #境外遊 #mytripvlog #tripblazers #celebratewithtrip #yuppijetrip2015 #yuppijeinmelbourne2015 #passionpassport

the docklands was quite quiet. it was hot, no shade, the cricket ground is nearby and within walking distance to CBD

Address: 10-11 Star Cres, Docklands VIC 3008 Environment/Facilities – 9/10 Features - Hong Kong-style teahouse, tea in the morning and dinner at night Price per person: 30AUD Rating – 9/10

I didn't think it would be famous with Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour. It's rare that the weather is sunny after the rain, so I came to the seaside Dockland for sightseeing. Ten minutes walk from southern cross station, very close, the sea breeze is very comfortable. Seeing a lot of yachts reminded me that Sai Kung can go out to sea and enjoy the scenery, unfortunately it is winter now so this will have to wait until the summer time. Along the way you can see many very distinctive buildings and beautiful buildings, as well as a Ferris wheel. It turned out to have stopped working due to safety issues. The pandemic still seems to have had a lot of impact on a lot of retail, so there are not many stores opening in nearby shopping centers. Overall it was quite comfortable to go and enjoy the sea breeze in the afternoon

1 Hotel Melbourne Step through the door and you’re greeted by Fitzroy’s artistic graffiti wall 🎨 Around the corner, you’ll find the super cute Melbourne-exclusive emoji street view ✨ The rooftop terrace bar lets you drink in the city skyline in one gulp 🍹 The Thai-European fusion brunch is so delicious you’ll want to stomp your feet 🍳 The rooms are full of clever design touches 💡 Concrete style mixed with natural wood textures, floor-to-ceiling windows framing the entire Melbourne cityscape 🌆 No need to worry about Melbourne’s quirky four-seasons-in-a-second weather ☁️☀️🌧️ Cozy up in the hotel with a coffee ☕️ and watch the trams ding-ding by 🚃 The vibe is instantly elevated 💯 Every snap is like a meme-worthy masterpiece 📸 The joy of your Melbourne trip starts the moment you check in here 🥰

The room was perfect, the hotel staff was super nice and helpful. I recommend this place a 100%. I mean, look at the view!!

Strolled along the Yarra River and caught the stunning Webb Bridge — a true Melbourne icon! Its unique, sculptural design isn’t just a bridge, it’s a work of art that twists and turns like it’s dancing over the water. 🎨💛 Perfect for a morning walk, golden hour shots, or just soaking in the city’s creative energy. From every angle, it’s pure photo magic and a must-see for architecture lovers and wanderers alike. #hellonewyear #melbournevibes #WebbBridge #yarrariver #melbournelandmarks #architecturelovers #MelbourneExplored

Well, what is there to say about this? It’s a cow up a tree. One of the most peculiar sights you’ll encounter in Melbourne. John Kelly’s 'Cow Up a Tree' initially appears to be a whimsical creation, but the sculpture is rooted in actual historical events. The artist drew inspiration from images of cows swept away during devastating floods in Gippsland; when the waters receded, the remains of one cow were found perched high in a tree. This surreal sculpture on Harbour Esplanade is crafted from five tonnes of bronze and stands at eight meters tall.

I am truly speechless after experiencing one of the most remarkable hotel stays I’ve ever had. Initially, I hadn’t planned to stay, as I usually avoid spending on a room just for myself when I’m not with my family. However, I’m so glad I went for it. I attended for a work event, and right from the moment I arrived, I was made to feel welcome. My bags and car were taken care of, and I was guided to an incredibly friendly check-in filled with helpful information. They even walked me over to the lifts, explaining all the available services, their hours, and the option to have treatments right in your room. Once I got to my room, I had the choice of using the app’s digital key or a unique wooden key. Stepping inside, the attention to detail, style, and luxurious comfort were astounding. This was pure luxury—the coziest sleep I’ve had in years. There was a handwritten welcome note, and honestly, how often do you see logo mats or a steamer thoughtfully provided in your hotel room? In the morning, I ordered room service. The lady delivering my breakfast introduced herself and asked kindly if she could come in. I was pleasantly surprised when she inquired about how well I slept and if there was anything else I needed. The pancakes were absolutely delicious. It was by far the most inviting and welcoming service I’ve ever experienced. Even when I faced an unexpected issue, the reception staff went above and beyond to assist me, ensuring my evening wasn’t spoiled. Thank you so much for the extraordinary hospitality—I truly hope to return someday!

📅 Itinerary Day1： Day2: Day3: 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations 📌 Tips

Here’s the insider scoop on Docklands, Melbourne — especially if you’re chasing epic New Year’s Eve vibes! 🎆 The highlight? Catching the city’s jaw-dropping fireworks from the Southern Cross Station spot, popping off just behind Marvel Stadium. Trust me: Melbourne turns into pure magic when those sparks fly, and beauty hides in every corner if you know where to look. Top Spots to Visit around Docklands: 1. Marvel Stadium (740 Bourke St, Docklands VIC 3008): Your go-to for big events and the perfect backdrop for NYE fireworks. The excitement here is unbeatable and it’s surrounded by buzzing restaurants. 2. Southern Cross Station: Not just a transit hub, but a sneaky prime vantage point for fireworks! The vibe is electric, views are stellar, and you’ll be at the heart of the celebration. Travel Tip: If you’re in town for New Year’s Eve, skip the crowded official viewing zones and head to Southern Cross Station. You’ll get a clear line of sight to fireworks erupting dramatically behind Marvel Stadium — plus, you’ll avoid major crowds! Getting Around: Docklands is super walkable and well-served by Melbourne’s free city trams. Jump on the free City Circle Tram or hop off at Southern Cross Station for instant access. Food: Docklands is loaded with options for pre-fireworks eats. Try The Goods Shed for casual bites or head to the stadium precinct for an easy dinner with city views. Quick Destination Tips: Melbourne weather flips fast, so pack layers. No visa needed for Aussie citizens; international visitors, check ahead. Cards are king — most places cashless. #melbournenye #docklandsvibes #marvelstadium #fireworkhacks #tripdotcom

Such a beautiful place for an evening walk. The Yarra River at night near Marvel Stadium is calm, scenic, and surprisingly peaceful despite being right in the city. The lights reflecting off the water, the skyline in the background, and the gentle movement of the river create a really relaxing atmosphere. The cool evening breeze makes it even more enjoyable — not too cold, just fresh enough to slow you down and take everything in. It’s a great spot for a quiet walk, a casual stroll with friends, or just some time to unwind after a long day. Clean paths, open views, soft lighting, and a nice mix of city energy and riverside calm. Highly recommend this walk if you’re in Melbourne and want something simple, peaceful, and beautiful.

This is one of those pieces of public art that makes you stop, smile… and then think. At first glance, a cow sitting up in a tree by the Yarra feels whimsical and absurd — almost like a visual joke hidden in the city. But the story behind it gives it real depth. The artist John Kelly was inspired by images of cattle swept away during severe floods in Gippsland, where one cow was later found stranded in a tree after the waters receded. Knowing that transforms this sculpture from something funny into something quietly powerful. It becomes a gentle but striking reminder of nature’s force, climate extremes, and how displacement — even in animals — can happen suddenly and unexpectedly. I love how this artwork manages to be playful, surreal, and meaningful all at once. A beautiful example of how public art doesn’t need walls to matter — it just needs to make you pause.

Ready for a sparkling New Year's celebration in Melbourne? ✨ Quest NewQuay Apartments in Docklands is THE spot to count down in style! Perfectly positioned in the free tram zone, you'll glide easily to the CBD, Southern Cross Station, and major sights—all while surrounded by stunning waterfront views and endless shopping and dining options. Plus, if you love halal food, you’re spoiled for choice just steps from your door! The hotel itself boasts super-friendly staff and fuss-free check-in/out, so you can spend less time waiting and more time exploring. The rooms are modern, spacious, and consistently praised for their spotless condition—fresh bedding and towels make it feel like home. For extra convenience, supermarkets and eateries are nearby, making meal planning simple whether you’re staying in or heading out. For New Year’s Eve, you’re at the heart of the action! Kick back in comfort and enjoy epic city views, or stroll out to catch the fireworks over Docklands. Don’t miss a walk along the Yarra River for some insta-worthy night shots—the city lights against modern architecture (think soaring towers lit up against the evening sky) are a dream for photographers. Hotel booking tip: Snap up your reservation via trip.com early, as New Year’s dates fill up fast! For the best experience, request a high-floor room with city views to guarantee impressive night-time panoramas. Quick itinerary tip: Stay local for the festivities, try halal eats at nearby restaurants, and use the free tram for a hassle-free hop to Federation Square or Queen Victoria Market. #Melbourne #DocklandsHotel #NewYearsEve #FamilyTravel #HalalEats

Quest NewQuay in Docklands is legit the perfect spot for your Melbourne adventure! Located at 26 Caravel Ln, you’ll be right beside a tram stop—so getting around the city is a breeze, especially since you’re in the free transport zone. Seriously, exploring iconic Melbourne spots and hopping around Docklands is sooo easy. 🏙️ What’s extra cool? You’re straight-up opposite a massive shopping mall, so shopping sprees and awesome eats are just steps away! The area is peaceful, but still super central—ideal if you wanna chill or jump into city action whenever you want. Quest NewQuay’s kitchen amenities are on point, making it super simple to whip up snacks or enjoy cozy eats in your own space. Reviewers shout out the rooms for being tidy, comfortable, and usually very clean (though a friendly heads up: some say the shared kitchen areas could use a little more TLC). Pro tip: Look out for rooms with scenic Docklands views for those Insta-worthy sunrise snaps or city lights at night. And if you’re heading out, don’t miss the nearby Melbourne War Memorial—a must-see for classic architecture lovers and culture fans! (P.S. It’s amazing for daytime photos, even on those cloudy Aussie days! 😍) Whether you’re shopping, sightseeing, or just vibing, Quest NewQuay is the ultimate basecamp for your Melbourne trip!

‍♀️Here comes the perfect one-day walking route in Melbourne! This route is super suitable for a relaxing weekend or a graduation trip～ 🌳 Flagstaff Gardens 📍 Address: 309-311 William St, West Melbourne VIC 3003 A hidden urban oasis 🌿 A morning stroll here is incredibly healing! 🏟️ Marvel Stadium 📍 Address: 740 Bourke St, Docklands VIC 3008 VIP-level sea view 🌊 The bay scenery next to the stadium is stunning! Perfect for photos to post on social media and get 99+ likes in no time 📸 💍 Royal Exhibition Building 📍 Address: 9 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053 You’ll often see many newlyweds taking wedding photos here 👰‍♀️ The architecture is magnificent! The Victoria Exhibition Center by the fountain is also a fantastic photo spot～ 🎓 Attend the University of Melbourne Graduation Ceremony 🎉 Witness an important life moment at Wilson Hall on the Parkville main campus! Don’t forget to wear a beautiful dress for photos～ 🍜 Chinatown 📍 Address: Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000 Must-try authentic Shanghai soup dumplings! 🤤 Highly recommend the soup dumplings and Chongqing hot and sour noodles at Jade Restaurant～ 🦞 South Melbourne Market 📍 Address: 322-326 Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205 Don’t miss the freshly grilled seafood platter 🦑 Remember to pair it with specialty coffee from Coffee Supreme ☕️ ✨ This kind of one-day tour in Melbourne is just perfect! From nature to culture, from graduation ceremonies to food exploration, everything is perfectly planned～

🤎Half the joy of my Melbourne trip came from this two-bedroom apartment in Docklands—Melbourne Lifestyle Apartments, and it truly lived up to its description—Best Views on Collins! 🤎270° Harbour Panoramic View ▪️Located in the heart of Docklands on Collins Street, I chose the Classic two-bedroom, two-bathroom family apartment. Approximately 80 square meters, both bedrooms and the living room all face the harbor, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour and Port Phillip Bay. ▪️In the morning, the first rays of sunlight illuminate the yachts, and the CBD buildings slowly awaken; in the evening, the buttery glow of the sky gradually spreads, slowly turning pink, creating a dreamlike, modern fairytale world. 🤎Open Kitchen + Island Counter, Perfect for Interaction ▪️The open kitchen features a minimalist, floor-to-ceiling design, fully equipped with a range hood, cooktop, refrigerator, Miele oven and dishwasher, and all kinds of pots, pans, and tableware. ▪️The island counter maximizes storage, washing, and interaction. My mom and I chatted while making breakfast, and looked up to see the city bathed in the morning glow. ▪️The dining table leans against the large glass window, creating a truly ceremonial dining experience. 🤎Space Utilization Masterful, Thoughtful Details ▪️The designer is a master of space utilization; a corner of the open kitchen cleverly conceals a built-in cabinet. Opening it reveals a mini sink and washer/dryer. The mini sink also has storage space underneath for various cleaning supplies. ▪️The floor and sides of the mini sink are thoughtfully tiled for easy water cleaning. 🤎Minimalist Bedroom ▪️The bedroom has no unnecessary decorations or furniture. The unobstructed view from the balcony is the best decoration—what more could you ask for? 😄 ▪️The floor-to-ceiling built-in wardrobe is large enough to hold a week's worth of luggage. 🤎Convenient Living ▪️The Docklands Library is right downstairs. It's not just a traditional library, but a multi-functional community center integrating reading, writing, communication, and leisure. ▪️The free tram lines 11 and 48 are just a short walk away, providing direct access to the city center. ▪️Cafes and a large Woolworths supermarket are nearby. ▪️The apartment was very clean to begin with. We stayed for 5 days and received one free cleaning service. ▪️Great value for money; our room type was only $1400 per night during the summer holidays. ❣️Melbourne Lifestyle Apartments 📍Address: 893A Collins Street, Docklands

Mayhem Ball tour by Lady Gaga just set Australia on fire — and Melbourne was the first to witness the magic. Two unforgettable nights have already passed, and they were nothing short of legendary. From the moment she stepped on stage, the energy was electric. The crowd sang every word, every light sparkled like stars, and the atmosphere felt like pure chaos in the most beautiful way. Melbourne didn’t just watch a concert! they experienced a movement. The visuals were bold. The vocals were powerful. The performances were raw and fearless. It wasn’t just a show, it was art. And the best part? Australia isn’t done yet. With more Australian shows still coming up, the magic of the Mayhem Ball is far from over. If Melbourne was just the beginning, the rest of the country is about to feel something unforgettable. Get your Sdyney or Brisbane ticket! This wasn’t just a concert. This was history in the making. #ladygaga #Mayhemball #ladygagaconcert #Australiaconcert #Australiaevent