Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) Acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Narrm, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and to Elders of all First Nations communities that visit MCEC.

We’re taking a break! Our office is closed 21 December – 5 January, but the fun continues.

See what’s on at MCEC!
View down a boardwalk outside along the Yarra River. There are green trees running alongside the board walk and it angles toward a large building in the distance.
Back to Stories and ideas

Winter Itinerary: How to Spend a Single Day in Melbourne

By Bree Pagliuso|

A coffee culture that runs deep, igloo lunch dates along the Yarra, interactive art experiences and a tram network that is an integral part of daily life. Melbourne is nothing short of amazing. We've crafted the perfect guide to exploring our city like a local when you're visiting MCEC for one day only! Here's a must-do list for the one-day traveller.

Two guys behind a coffee machine, making coffees. They are in a Padre uniform in what appears to be a cafe working.
Padre Coffee
8 AM

Start with Padre

Nothing gets us going more than the perfect coffee, so as soon as you arrive at MCEC, head to one of our cafes and start your day with a jolt of Melbourne’s finest Padre Coffee. Melbourne’s coffee scene is legendary, so we made sure we’ve got the best right here at MCEC, so you don’t have to go anywhere before your event starts!

9 AM

Event time

The bells are ringing, signalling the start of your conference or event. Inside, you're about to dive into a world where insights and connections flow freely. You'll meet people from all walks of life, engage in vibrant discussions and debates, and forge new connections.

11 AM

Mid-morning break

So you've decided to head outside. The stunning Yarra River and lush greenery of the South Wharf precinct provide a unique backdrop to elevate your experience. Take a moment in one of our tranquil seating areas to relax and rejuvenate before heading back in.

Iconic winter igloos outside at the Wharf Hotel Melbourne looking out at the Yarra River.
The Wharf Hotel Melbourne
12:30 PM

Igloo lunch adventure

Break for lunch with a twist—head over to the Wharf Hotel for a cozy meal inside their iconic winter igloos. If you prefer to stay close, our in-house cafe, Goldfields, offers up seasonal green bowls, sustainably caught fish, classic burgers, and delicious desserts.

A small group of people wander around THE LUME Melbourne Leonardo da Vinci - 500 Years of Genius gallery.
THE LUME Melbourne

Afternoon art time

Take an afternoon art detour to THE LUME Melbourne inside our venue. Travel back in time and explore Leonardo da Vinci - 500 Years of Genius. This isn’t your typical gallery—with massive displays of Leonardo’s masterpieces, you can admire his art and innovations, fly over Florence using VR technology, or sit back and watch Renaissance Italy light up this unique space.

3 PM

Back to it

There go those session bells, and you're off to the second part of your day at MCEC. Did we mention Obama, Huberman, Altman - they've all been here!

Two people toasting with two cocktails with a dish of food on the table in front of them.
Fridays at THE LUME Melbourne
5 PM

After work drinks

Cap off your day with some after-event fun. If you are here on a Friday, THE LUME Melbourne hosts the Italian tradition of Aperitivo. Enjoy a spritz and antipasto platter at the in-house Caffe Medici as you unwind and soak up the Italian vibes. If it's any other day, we've got you covered with several nearby hotels and bars like Melbourne Cellar Door boasting incredible views of the city skyline.

Bird's eye view of a dumplings meal at Hu Tong Dumpling Bar.
Hu Tong Dumpling Bar
6 PM

Dinner time

Whatever you're in the mood for, you can find it within walking distance or a short tram ride away. Craving pizza? Head to Melbourne institution +39 Pizzeria . Want a classic pub meal? Melbourne Public is just outside our venue. For delicious dumplings, try Hutong Dumpling Bar .

7:30 PM

Before saying goodbye to Melbourne

Grab your coat, scarf and beanie and head to the Skyline Melbourne Precinct right outside MCEC. Ride the iconic Ferris wheel for breathtaking views, challenge your friends to a round of 9-hole 'Straya Mania-themed Mini Golf, or if you're hungry, there's a food truck ready with the perfect winter meal order.

Spare moment ideas

Focus is on two people walking down a buzzing isle at the South Melbourne Markets.
South Melbourne Market

Are you visiting MCEC?

Roam our spaces and navigate our iconic venue before you arrive or check out our latest and upcoming events on our What's On page .