Melbourne is a city known for its vibrant culture, art, food, and hidden gems. With its stunning street art, beautiful parks, iconic architecture, and chic laneways, it’s no wonder that this city is one of the most Instagrammable destinations in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned influencer or just someone looking to capture the perfect moment, Melbourne offers plenty of picture-perfect spots. Here’s a guide to the most Instagrammable spots in Melbourne, each offering unique vibes, stunning backdrops, and the perfect opportunity for your next social media post.
1. Hosier Lane
Why It’s Instagrammable:
One of Melbourne’s most famous laneways, Hosier Lane is a vibrant canvas for ever-changing street art. The walls here are covered in an eclectic mix of graffiti, murals, and colorful artwork, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking a unique, urban backdrop. The energy of this lane is infectious, and every corner offers something new to photograph.
Best Shot:
Look for the striking, larger-than-life murals, or aim for a more symmetrical shot of the graffiti-covered walls. Early morning or late afternoon light can add a beautiful glow to your photos.
2. Flinders Street Station
Why It’s Instagrammable:
Flinders Street Station is one of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks, known for its grand architecture and historical significance. The station’s stunning yellow façade, the clocks above the entrance, and the bustling atmosphere create a picture-perfect Melbourne moment. It’s particularly striking at night when the building is lit up and contrasts with the surrounding city lights.
Best Shot:
Capture the station’s iconic clock tower from Federation Square or take a wide-angle shot that incorporates both the station and the bustling pedestrian traffic. A shot at golden hour will also add warmth to the image.
3. Royal Arcade
Why It’s Instagrammable:
The Royal Arcade, Melbourne’s oldest shopping arcade, is a delightful mix of Victorian architecture and boutique charm. Its high ceilings, ornate details, and elegant glass canopy make it a photogenic spot. The arcade is also home to the famous Gaunt’s Clock, featuring two mechanical copper knights that strike the bells on the hour.
Best Shot:
Take a wide shot to capture the full length of the arcade, with its arched roof and beautiful retail windows. Don’t forget to snap a close-up of the mechanical knights at the clock striking the hour!
4. St Kilda Pier
Why It’s Instagrammable:
St Kilda Pier offers one of the best views of Melbourne’s skyline, especially during sunset. The pier stretches out into the bay, offering breathtaking views of the city and the boats in the harbor. With the iconic St Kilda Breakwater in the distance, this spot is perfect for capturing stunning photos at any time of day.
Best Shot:
Try to catch the pier’s leading lines in your photo, with the sunset casting a warm glow on the scene. You could also capture a shot with the St Kilda Lighthouse in the background, particularly striking at dusk.
5. Brighton Beach Boxes
Why It’s Instagrammable:
The iconic Brighton Beach Boxes are a colorful and quirky feature of Melbourne’s coastline. The rows of brightly painted wooden cabins line the sandy beach and create an eye-catching contrast against the blue skies and the sparkling water. They have become one of the most Instagrammed spots in Melbourne for their vivid colors and photogenic layout.
Best Shot:
Get the full line of colorful beach huts in your frame, or zoom in on one to capture its vibrant hues. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting, but the huts can be striking at any time of day.
6. Eureka Skydeck
Why It’s Instagrammable:
For panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline, Eureka Skydeck offers the perfect vantage point. Located on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower, this observation deck allows you to see the entire city, including Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, and the Yarra River. The views from this height are breathtaking, especially during golden hour or when the city is lit up at night.
Best Shot:
Snap a wide-angle photo of Melbourne’s cityscape. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Edge Experience, a glass cube that extends out from the building, giving you an exhilarating perspective for your photos.
7. Federation Square
Why It’s Instagrammable:
Federation Square is a dynamic cultural hub located in the heart of Melbourne. Its modern architecture, which combines glass, concrete, and steel, provides a stark contrast to the city’s more historic buildings. The square is often filled with cultural events, festivals, and street performances, making it a lively and vibrant spot to photograph.
Best Shot:
Capture the geometric design of the Ian Potter Centre or take a shot from the top level of the ACMI building, offering stunning views of the square and Flinders Street Station.
8. Royal Botanic Gardens
Why It’s Instagrammable:
The Royal Botanic Gardens are a serene oasis in the middle of Melbourne, offering lush greenery, tranquil lakes, and sweeping landscapes. With its variety of plants, sculptures, and walking paths, the gardens offer countless photo opportunities. Whether you’re surrounded by flowers or near the water, it’s a peaceful place to capture the beauty of nature in the city.
Best Shot:
Head to the Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden for whimsical shots or capture the iconic Pond and Guilfoyle’s Volcano for a more dramatic image. If you’re visiting at sunset, the soft golden light will enhance your photos.
9. NGV (National Gallery of Victoria)
Why It’s Instagrammable:
The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is an architectural masterpiece that combines art and design with its striking building. The iconic water wall at the entrance is one of Melbourne’s most photographed spots, and the gallery’s interior is just as stunning. With its contemporary installations and lush gardens, the NGV offers a beautiful backdrop for your photos.
Best Shot:
Snap a photo of the mesmerizing water wall from the entrance, or take a photo inside the gallery’s contemporary spaces. Don’t miss the chance to get a shot in the outdoor garden area, which offers a perfect blend of nature and art.
10. Melbourne Star Observation Wheel
Why It’s Instagrammable:
For a bird’s-eye view of Melbourne, the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel provides unparalleled panoramas of the city. Located in Docklands, it’s the perfect spot for capturing sweeping views of the Melbourne skyline and its surrounding districts, especially during sunset or night time when the lights come alive.
Best Shot:
Capture a sunset shot as the city’s lights start to twinkle, or focus on the Melbourne Star itself for a dramatic shot, with the city’s skyline in the background.
11. Docklands & Yarra River
Why It’s Instagrammable:
The Docklands area, combined with the stunning views of the Yarra River, offers a variety of photo opportunities. The waterfront area is home to modern architecture, beautiful public art, and a lively atmosphere. The Bolte Bridge at sunset is a popular choice, as are the vibrant Rialto Towers and the Melbourne Star ferris wheel.
Best Shot:
Capture the Yarra River with the city skyline in the background, particularly around sunset. Alternatively, the Docklands’ water features and sculptures provide artistic photo ops.
12. Melbourne Laneways & Street Art
Why It’s Instagrammable:
Melbourne’s laneways are famous for their hidden cafés, boutiques, and street art. ACDC Lane and Union Lane are among the most well-known, with their vibrant murals, graffiti-covered walls, and eclectic atmosphere. These laneways offer the perfect setting for capturing Melbourne’s urban creativity.
Best Shot:
Photograph the street art from a low angle to emphasize the scale and colors. You can also get creative with reflections in nearby puddles or shop windows for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Melbourne is a city bursting with creativity and stunning backdrops, making it one of the most Instagrammable destinations in the world. From the vibrant street art in its laneways to the breathtaking views from its observation decks, Melbourne offers a wide range of picturesque spots that will have your followers double-tapping in no time. So, pack your camera, explore the city, and don’t forget to stop and capture the beauty that surrounds you.
