The Best Walks in Melbourne to Crush Your Step Goal
From easy walks to the more strenuous, the best walks in Melbourne take in some impressive views and surrounds.
Melbourne has a multitude of scenic tracks and walking trails that will please everyone from casual strollers to weekend warriors. Soak up the relaxed vibes along beachside promenades, make your way through creek-side paths littered with native flowers or admire the city skyline from lush urban parks.
All you need is your walking shoes, SPF and your favourite podcast to go out and discover the best walks in Melbourne.
Docklands Waterfront Wander
When the sun shining and the Yarra River is glistening, a wander along the Docklands waterfront is just what the doctor ordered. Boasting unparalleled views of the city, the 2.2km easy walk passes by landmarks like Marvel Stadium and the bustling Docklands Esplanade.
It also offers different perspectives and sights throughout the day due to the environment and light in particular. From sunrise to sunset, you really can't go wrong with this Melbourne walk.
Docklands
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kings Domain & Alexandra Gardens
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Melbourne's parklands, where adventure awaits at every turn. Start your journey at the breathtaking Royal Botanic Gardens, home to over 8,500 plant species. Find tranquility at the Ornamental Lake, surrounded by charming waterfowl, before wandering through the lush paths of Fern Gully, inviting you to unwind.
Don’t miss Guilfoyle's Volcano, a unique fusion of wetland and desert gardens. Nearby, Kings Domain boasts majestic trees and the Shrine of Remembrance, while Alexandra Gardens dazzles with historic rowing boathouses and vibrant floral displays. Cap off your day at the NGV in the vibrant Arts Precinct.
Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne
Capital City Trail
Tie your laces and embark on the ultimate city adventure with the Capital City Trail, a stunning 30-kilometre loop that showcases the very best of Melbourne. This trail takes you on a delightful journey along the Yarra River, meandering through vibrant parks and charming inner-north streets. As you stroll, you'll pass iconic landmarks like Birrarung Marr and the Collingwood Children’s Farm, while sports enthusiasts will appreciate the view of the MCG.
From bustling urban landscapes to serene bushland, this beloved trail truly offers a taste of everything Melbourne has to offer.
Sitchu Tip: Be sure to pause for a coffee at one of the local gems along the way!
Melbourne
Yarra Bend Park Walk
The Yarra Bend Park Walk is a 30 minute loop that allows you to be immersed in scenic bushland. Located right near the Studley Park Boathouse, this tranquil walk offers a refreshing escape from the bustle of city life. Grab a girlfriend and go for a morning stroll along the Yarra River before sitting down for a coffee at the Boathouse, and make it the perfect productive day out.
1 Fairfield Park Drive, Fairfield
Fitzroy Gardens Walk
A favourite of families and city workers looking to escape the chaos, there’s plenty to explore on the Fitzroy Gardens Walk. Impressively green for its inner-city location, this gorgeous 2 kilometre track is the perfect way to spend a lunch break or an afternoon. Be sure to stop off at the Fairy Tree, Tudor Village, and Cooks Cottage on your travels and enjoy Melbourne’s lush surrounds right in the heart of the city.
East Melbourne
The Tan
One of the most beautiful inner-city walks in Melbourne, The Tan is a local icon. At just under 4 kilometres, the city’s iconic walking track loops around Kings Domain and the Royal Botanical Gardens. If you're not one for cardio, the city skyline and majestic gardens are sure to keep your mind off the burn. For less intensity, bypass Heartbreak Hill.
Kings Domain, Melbourne
The Foreshore Trail
The classic Foreshore trail stretches over 11 kilometres from Port Melbourne to Elwood, following the water's edge and passing all the bay’s highlights. It's dotted with palm trees, beaches, cafes and parks — and is often packed with Melburnians enjoying the sun and salty air as they walk, cycle or jog the track. Naturally, St Kilda sights feature heavily along the way, with hikers passing Catani Gardens, the breakwater and St Kilda Pier before continuing down the Esplanade to Acland Street.
St Kilda
Main Yarra Trail
The Main Yarra Trail, or Yarra Trail, is a picturesque 23.5-kilometre shared path that weaves alongside the Yarra River, connecting the northeastern suburbs to the vibrant Southbank. This moderately challenging trail takes about five hours to complete and is perfect for both cyclists and pedestrians, offering stunning views of ancient gum trees and serene billabongs.
As you journey through beautiful bushland reserves like Yarra Bend Park and Westerfolds Park, you'll enjoy a perfect weekend escape. Remember to pack water and snacks to keep your energy up as you explore this Melbourne walk.
Templestowe to Southbank
Flinders Street to Jolimont Walk
Take in the city sights while strolling along the banks of the Yarra with the Flinders Street to Jolimont Walk. Quintessentially Melbourne, this easy walk on the city’s borders packs a whole lot into its 2.15 kilometre distance. Starting at the iconic Flinders Street Clocks, you’ll make your way over to Federation Square and through Birrarung Marr Park. Catch the Birrarung Wilam installation near Art Play for your daily dose of culture.
Flinders Street, Melbourne
Maree's Inner-Yarra Hike
From Fairfield Boathouse to Federation Square, the highlights of this 16 kilometre Inner-Yarra hike are plentiful and varied. Begin your day with breakfast at Fairfield Boathouse, then head to the stunning Dights Falls, where the Merri River meets the Yarra. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Collingwood Children's Farm and the historic Abbotsford Convent, stopping for a delightful bite at Cam's or Julie.
Continue your journey through Burnley Gardens, visiting the iconic Corroboree Tree, before arriving at Federation Square. This walk beautifully combines nature and urban charm, making it a must-do for any Melbourne adventurer!
Fairfield to Melbourne CBD
Albert Park Lake
Whether you’re looking to burn calories or catch up after coffee, the iconic Albert Park Lake with its omnipresent swans and cheerful weekend sailors has long been a favourite with inner city walkers. Ringed with palm trees and offering an unrivalled vista across the CBD, this 5 kilometre loop is best experienced at sunset.
Albert Park Lake, Albert Park
Merri Creek Trail
Join the bike riders in the fun and take a leisurely walk along Merri Creek Trail for a taste of bush life in the heart of the city. Winding your way along the ambling creek path, you’ll encounter ancient gums and native plants aplenty. Measuring an impressive 21 kilometres, the beauty of this trail is that you can hop on and off as you please.
Merri Creek Trail, Clifton Hill
Bayside Coastal Trail
There’s nothing like an ocean view with your morning walk and the Bayside Coastal Trail offers up endless blue for as far as the eye can see. Stretching 17 kilometres from Brighton to Beaumaris, you can join the path for as long as you desire, taking in the beachfront mansions and palm-tree lined promenades. Just don’t forget to stop for ice cream.
Bayside Coastal Trail, Brighton
Pound Bend River Walk
If you're seeking one of the best walks in Melbourne, look no further than Pound Bend Reserve. This easy 2.4-kilometre trail invites you to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the Yarra River and the rich culture of the Wurundjeri people. As you stroll along the gentle path, let the soothing sounds of birds and rustling leaves accompany you.
Don't miss the historic Evelyn Tunnel, a fascinating relic of the gold rush era. After your walk, unwind with a picnic by the river—if the sun is shining, a refreshing dip might just be the perfect finish to your adventure!
Warrandyte State Park, Warrandyte
Looking for more of the best Melbourne walks to challenge yourself, check out our article on the scenic walks of the Mornington Peninsula and the best hikes surrounding Melbourne. You'll be a walking pro by the time you make your way through these lists!
