The Best Gardens in Melbourne & Victoria to Visit This Spring

One of the best things about spring is the gorgeous weather. With the sun shining, flowers blooming, and positive vibes all around, there's no better activity than getting outside and taking a stroll along a beautiful garden. Whether you're just going for a walk or plan to set up a picnic rug for the day and enjoy an alfresco catch up with friends, Melbourne and Victoria have a wealth of beautiful spots for you to soak up the sun.

So, next time you feel like getting some fresh air, here are the best gardens in Melbourne and Victoria to make a beeline for.

Rippon Lea Estate

Rippon Lea House and Garden is one of Australia’s most grand suburban estates. Its garden consists of sweeping lawns, magnificent trees and a tranquil lake, making for a romantic setting for day dates, picnics with the girls or even some me-time.

Located just 10 kilometres from the CBD, this elegant garden will have you dressing up and playing 'old-money' for the day.

192 Hotham Street, Elsternwick

Fitzroy Gardens

This is one of the most historic and beautiful gardens in Melbourne. Fitzroy Gardens is full of lush green grass to stretch out on, towering elm trees, flowers and ornamental shrubs that serve as eye candy while you stroll long the many paths that litter the park. Laid in 1859, this garden offers a rich history not only through the trees and foliage that fill it, but also through the buildings including Band Pavilion, Sinclair's Cottage, the Rotunda, Conservatory and more.

There's also a cafe within the gardens, allowing you to sit down and enjoy a coffee and cake as you take in your surroundings.

Wellington Parade, East Melbourne

Royal Botanic Gardens

It wouldn't be a 'best gardens in Melbourne' article if we didn't include the Royal Botanic Gardens, would it? Having been around for over 170 years, this beautiful and vast expanse of both native and international flora and fauna is the beating heart of the city. Come take a stroll through the gardens or participate in one of the many events that occur throughout the year, from Lightscape to Moonlight Cinema and more!

Plus, they also have a location in Cranbourne, meaning south-east locals don't have to travel to the city to enjoy the beauty of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne.

Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne

Ballarto Road and Botanic Drive, Cranbourne

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden

Located less than an hour's drive from the Melbourne CBD, the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden is one of the best gardens in Melbourne that you need to visit. The best part? It's gorgeous all-year-round!

Wander along the path through the lush foliage until you come across a gorgeous pond. You'll be surrounded by deep green ferns, get the best view of the pond over the bridge, and try to peer into the mysterious boat shed.

1A Sherbrooke Road, Sherbrooke

Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden

This cool-climate garden is a refreshing spot to visit in spring and summer, or a magical place to rug up and take a walk through in autumn. The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is home to rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and daffodils, making it a garden in Melbourne that's alive with colour in spring and autumn!

We suggest bringing a picnic blanket and some snacks to set up and watch the day go by ion all its beauty. There's no doubt that the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is one of the best gardens in Melbourne.

Sitchu Tip: This garden is closed on Christmas Day, as well as days with a Total Fire Ban or severe weather warnings.

The Georgian Road, Olinda

Heronswood

Perched on the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, Heronswood offers a tranquil escape into nature’s beauty. This historic estate is home to The Diggers Foundation, renowned for preserving heirloom seeds and traditional gardening practices. Spanning two hectares of lush, meticulously designed gardens, Heronswood is a dream for garden lovers and home cooks alike, with vibrant flower beds and productive kitchen gardens providing endless inspiration.

Stroll through the serene grounds, then visit the Garden Shop and Nursery, where expert staff offer advice and a selection of unique heirloom seeds, plants, and gardening essentials. After exploring, relax at the Heronswood Cafe in the heritage house, indulging in a delicious farm-to-table meal. It’s pure magic, and one of the finest gardens in Victoria to escape within. 

105 Latrobe Parade, Dromana

Blue Lotus Water Garden

While it isn't open all-year-round, the Blue Lotus Water Garden is one of the best gardens in Melbourne - and well worth a visit when its in season. Open from December 26th to the 20th March, you'll be able to immerse yourself in a world of water flowers covering 14 acres.

Once water lily season ends, the magic continues at Blue Lotus Water Garden with the arrival of Autumn Flower Season and the vibrant Blooming Begonias. Wander through a stunning display of begonias, impatiens, salvias, and other breathtaking autumn blooms that transform the garden into a colourful wonderland.

2628 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction

Victoria State Rose Garden

The Victoria State Rose Garden is one of the most beautiful gardens in Victoria - with a path carved out in the shape of a rose! Home to over 5,000 roses, this Werribee South garden has earned international recognition as a Garden of Excellence. The best part? It's free to visit every day!

Stroll through rows of stunning blooms, taking in some of the most beautiful flowers you’ll ever see. Whether you’re looking for a dreamy date spot or just a gentle reminder to your boo about that bouquet you deserve, this garden is the perfect place to soak up the romance of nature.

K Road, Werribee South

Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm

There's 100 acres of beautiful gardens to explore at Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm. Just an hour and a half from Melbourne and a quick 10-minute drive from Daylesford, this lavender farm is a dreamy sea of purple. Open daily (except Thursdays and during winter closure—check their website for dates), it’s not just about the blooms. Meet the adorable farm animals, indulge in freshly baked lavender scones at Maria’s Trattoria, or relax with a glass of wine at Tinetti’s Wine Bar, opening in October 2024.

With its enchanting atmosphere and delightful treats, it’s easily one of the most charming gardens in Victoria.

350 Hepburn-Newstead Road, Shepherds Flat

Alowyn Gardens and Nursery

Alowyn Gardens & Nursery is a gorgeous expansive garden in Yarra Glen. Spanning seven stunning acres and boasting multiple awards, this garden is a true masterpiece with nine distinct styles to explore.

Each turn offers something new, from serene landscapes to vibrant blooms, all meticulously designed. After a leisurely stroll, grab a coffee from the charming Wisteria Cafe and take your time browsing the fully stocked nursery, where you can bring a little piece of this garden paradise home with you.

It’s easily one of the best gardens in Victoria to unwind, recharge, and get inspired for your own garden dreams! 

Adults: $15.00
Concession: $12.50
Group: $11.00 (15 or more people)
12 & Under: FREE

1210 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen 

Forest Glade Gardens

This historic private garden is a gorgeous haven filled with lush foliage - and it's one of the best gardens in Victoria by far. Almost 100 years old, the Forest Glade Gardens combines landscaping styles from traditional England, Italy, Japan and woodland, making it a unique, stylish garden that you can spend hours wandering through.

There are four distinct sections in the garden, allowing you to be transported to different locations across the world as you walk through. In autumn, you'll find stunning orange maple leaves, spring presents rhododendrons, azaleas and peonies in full bloom - but it's gorgeous to visit all-year-round.

816 Mount Macedon Road, Mount Macedon

Can't get enough of the best gardens in Melbourne and Victoria and want to check out what other outdoor activities are on offer in our city? Why not explore the Dandenong Ranges, or discover the perfect road trip from Adelaide to Melbourne - and do it in reverse?