Ready for Three Days of Melbourne?

The best part? You’re never far from the action—MCEC is at the centre of it all.

Day 1

Morning

Touch down in Melbourne and hit the ground running with Melbourne’s lifeblood—coffee. Goldfields Café at MCEC has you covered with the perfect cup of Padre Coffee to get you started.

Feeling the Melbourne buzz yet?

You should be.

Just a short walk away, breakfast at Arbory Bar & Eatery serves a next-level smashed avo with a side of city views.

Late morning

After absorbing the city’s energy, it’s time to get down to business at MCEC.

Whether you're here for a conference, dynamic exhibition, or a keynote session, our place is designed to inspire, so take your time —stay and be part of innovation, connection, and creativity.

And if you need a mid-morning pick-me-up, our on-site cafes can provide round two of that delicious Padre.

Lunchtime

If your event includes food, you're in for a treat! Our menus blend fresh, local ingredients, with every plate reflecting Melbourne’s vibrant and innovative food scene.

Looking to head out? Swing by cultural icon Hector’s Deli in South Melbourne for one of their famous sandwiches—perfect for a quick, satisfying bite.

Afternoon

Time for a change of scenery.

If the weather is playing nice, head out and onto the iconic Melba Star for a Yarra River cruise —it’s the best way to see Melbourne.

Just a tram ride away is Melbourne's beloved Zoo ; from playful lemurs to Australian animals, Melbourne Zoo’s wildlife wonders are guaranteed to keep your excitement going.

Want more culture? Jump on a tram to Federation Square and dive into the interactive exhibits at ACMI —and dig into some nostalgia through film, gaming, and digital fun.

Now, back to MCEC for the afternoon.

Evening

As your final session wraps up, head outside and enjoy a glass of local wine at one of South Wharf ’s vibrant bars or make your way down to St Kilda for some old-school thrills at Luna Park . Nothing says Melbourne fun like carnival rides under a starry sky.

Wrap up the night at Ines Wine Bar on Chapel Street with Mediterranean food and wines to close out your first day in style.

Day 2

Morning

Given that Melbourne runs on coffee, Shed Cafe delivers yet again. But if you want to head out for your morning cup, you'll find hole-in-the-wall spots to bustling roasteries in every direction.

Ready for a little exploring?

The Melbourne Aquarium , home to Pesto the Penguin, is just a short distance from MCEC and offers an up-close look at penguins, sharks, and much more.

Aquarium not your thing? Head over to the Immigration Museum for a deep dive into Melbourne’s multicultural history and stories of those who shaped the city.

Late morning

Once you're back on site, you'll feel a palpable energy—our venue brings creativity and collaboration under one roof, driving conversations that can change industries.

For some artful inspiration, THE LUME Melbourne on-site is your perfect gateway. Take the morning to travel back in time and explore Leonardo da Vinci - 500 Years of Genius. With enormous displays of his masterpieces, you can admire his art and innovations, fly over Florence using VR technology, or sit back and watch Renaissance Italy light up.

Afternoon

Outside our venue, the tram takes you to the iconic State Library of Victoria, a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and cultural richness.

Love food?

Head to Mercato Centrale , the new Italian marketplace on Collins Street, packed with fresh produce, artisanal bread, and authentic Italian delicacies—all under one roof. Sample creamy cheeses or grab a panini that tastes like it’s straight from Italy.

Keep the afternoon sweet; head to Piccolina Gelateria on Smith Street in Collingwood, which serves up indulgent gelato that’ll give you the sugar boost you need.

What’s next on the list?

Melbourne is well known for its hidden spots, so head to the famous Hosier Lane —an ever-changing canvas of street art that captures the city’s creative vibrancy. From there, wander to Degraves Street , where boutique bakeries and hole-in-the-wall coffee spots await.

Evening

As evening falls, Melbourne’s pub culture comes alive. Head to The Corner Hotel for a live gig and experience the heart of Melbourne’s local music scene.

Not in the mood for music?

A tram ride to Port Melbourne Beach will treat you to fish and chips by the water.

Then, end the night with style at Her rooftop bar , which offers cocktails and breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Or, for something closer to MCEC, head to Dive Bar at Crowne Plaza . Dimly lit and layered with neon lights, it channels the gritty charm of New York’s East Village, making it perfect for a nightcap overlooking the Yarra.

Day 3

Morning

For your final day, start with something sweet—LUNE Croissanterie , an award-winning croissant spot not far from here.

Then, stroll along the Southbank promenade, taking in the Melbourne skyline and the unique architecture that defines the city from the soaring Eureka Tower to The Gothic Bank on 380 Collins Street.

If you’ve got some extra time, check out one of Melbourne’s pop-up activities. Whether it’s a street market, art installation, or food festival, there’s always something happening nearby.

Midday

As lunchtime approaches, it's time to tick off one of Melbourne's hotpots for a farm-to-table lunch at Farmer’s Daughters.

If lunch is pushing its way into your afternoon, head to Caretakers Cottage for a classic cocktail. The cosy atmosphere will ease you into the city’s rhythm before you head back to MCEC for any final farewells or wrap-up meetings.

Afternoon

Now that you’ve said your goodbyes at MCEC, head outside and soak up the energy of South Wharf. The riverside buzz and lush greenery create the perfect vibe for a spring or summer day. And while you’re here, head to Skyline Melbourne Precinct and take a spin on the iconic Ferris wheel. Trust us—the views are worth it!

For a laid-back afternoon, make your way to the Royal Botanic Gardens . The 170-year-old gardens are endlessly diverse with rainforest flora, cacti, camellias and a collection of rare and endangered species. Wander around or find a quiet spot beneath the towering trees and have some much needed you time.

Night

For your final night in Melbourne, make your way to Chinatown for the legendary dumplings at Hutong Dumpling Bar – a spot that’s earned its cult status for good reason. Or, if you’re after something more laid-back, Captain Melville serves pub classics alongside easy-drinking wines, tap beers, and a creative cocktail menu.

Leave room for dessert and visit Melbourne institution Brunetti’s on Flinders Lane filled with tempting gelato flavours and a decadent cake selection.

Then, as the city lights dance along the Yarra, it's time to reflect on the last three days packed with everything that makes Melbourne, well, so Melbourne.

With MCEC as your launchpad, you’ve experienced a whirlwind of creativity, culture, and connection.

It might be time to head home—but don’t worry; we’ll be right here, ready for your next adventure.