Just got back from a week cycling Melbourne & it’s a ripper! π΄ββοΈπ
π₯ G’day mate! Just got back from an absolute bloody epic week exploring Melbourne on two wheels, and I’m buzzing to share the ultimate itinerary that’ll have you cruising like a local! Melbourne’s gotta be one of the best cities in Oz for cycling β from beachside paths to hidden laneways, there’s something for everyone!
ποΈ Day 1: Yarra River Trail Intro
Start your Melbourne cycling adventure with the iconic Yarra River Trail! This is perfect for getting your bearings. I kicked off at Federation Square and headed upstream towards Dights Falls. The path is mostly flat and sealed β perfect for beginners. You’ll pass by Melbourne’s sporting precinct, so don’t forget to stop for a photo with the MCG in the background! The whole stretch is about 12km return, and there are heaps good coffee spots along the way. I grabbed a brekkie at one of the riverside cafes in Abbotsford β absolute gold!
ποΈ Day 2: Beachside Bonanza – St Kilda to Port Melbourne
Alright, time for that classic Melbourne experience! I started at St Kilda Pier (keep an eye out for the little penguins at dusk!) and cruised along the coastal path to Port Melbourne. This stretch is about 10km one way and bloody gorgeous on a sunny day. The path is wide and well-maintained, perfect for families. I stopped at South Melbourne Beach for a dip β the water’s freezing but totally refreshing! On the way back, I treated myself to some famous cake at Acland Street. Pro tip: go in the arvo to catch the sunset over Port Phillip Bay β it’s magic!
ποΈ Day 3: Capital City Trail & Merri Creek
Today’s all about connecting the dots! The Capital City Trail is a 29km loop that links up heaps of Melbourne’s best paths. I focused on the Merri Creek section starting from Dights Falls. This part feels like you’re miles away from the city, surrounded by native bushland and birdlife. The trail follows the creek, so it’s mostly gentle gradients. I spotted some wallabies near Ceres Community Environment Park β didn’t expect that in the middle of Melbourne! Pack some snacks for this one; there are fewer facilities but it’s worth it for the serenity.
ποΈ Day 4: Urban Explorer – Melbourne’s Laneways
Switch gears today and dive into Melbourne’s famous laneways! While cycling through the CBD requires more attention to traffic and pedestrians, it’s an absolute blast. I started at Flinders Street Station and navigated through Hosier Lane (street art heaven!), Hardware Street, and the famous Hardware Societe for coffee. This isn’t about distance β it’s about discovery. I spent about 3 hours just exploring every nook and cranny. Safety first though: stick to the designated bike lanes where possible and always give way to pedestrians. The vibe is electric, especially on a weekday morning!
ποΈ Day 5: Werribee Park Adventure
Time for a day trip! Hopped on the train to Werribee with my bike (super easy β just get a myki bike pass) and explored the Werribee Park region. The main attraction is cycling around the magnificent Werribee Mansion and its stunning gardens. There’s also the nearby Werribee River Trail which takes you all the way to the coast at Point Cook. This is about 20km of cycling through wetlands and coastal reserves. I saw heaps of birdlife and even a few dolphins from the Point Cook Coastal Park! It’s a bit of a mission from the CBD but absolutely worth it for the change of scenery.
π° Total Trip Cost
Here’s the budget breakdown for my 5-day Melbourne cycling adventure:
π² Bike Hire: $25-50/day (depending on bike type)
β Coffee & Snacks: $15-30/day
π Public Transport (Werribee day): $10 (off-peak)
π½οΈ Meals: $40-80/day (mix of cafes and picnics)
Total: Approximately $450-850 for 5 days depending on your eating habits and bike choice. I saved heaps by packing my own lunch most days and using Melbourne’s awesome public drinking fountains to refill my water bottle!
π‘ Essential Melbourne Cycling Tips
Melbourne’s cycling scene is top-notch, but here are some local pearls of wisdom:
β’ Get a Myki card immediately β you’ll need it for trains with bikes
β’ Download the ‘BikeMaps’ app β shows all bike lanes and routes in real-time
β’ Melbourne weather is unpredictable β always pack a light rain jacket
β’ Most cafes are bike-friendly with racks out front
β’ Avoid peak hour cycling in the CBD (7-9am, 5-7pm) unless you’re experienced
β’ Wear sunnies even on cloudy days β the Aussie UV is no joke!
β’ Helmets are compulsory by law β no exceptions, mate!
π Practical Info
π Starting point: Federation Square, Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000
π From Melbourne Airport: 30 mins by SkyBus to CBD; From Sydney: 1.5hr flight + 30min to CBD
π° Bike hire: $25-50/day; Public transport day pass: $12; Food: $40-80/day
π Best cycling times: 6am-10am or 3pm-7pm to avoid crowds and heat
β±οΈ Recommended 5-7 days to fully experience Melbourne’s cycling network
π‘ Tips & Warnings
β
Hire a bike from Melbourne Bike Share or local shops near Federation Square for best convenience
β
Download the City of Melbourne cycling map before you go β it’s a lifesaver!
β Don’t attempt the CBD during peak hours unless you’re an experienced city cyclist
β οΈ β οΈ Melbourne’s weather can change in minutes β always check the forecast and carry rain gear!
π Planning your Melbourne cycling trip? Drop questions below! π
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