24 Hours in Melbourne: Start with a Balloon Ride
Only have one day in Melbourne? Start it the right way — floating above the city as the sun rises.
A hot air balloon flight offers the ultimate introduction to Melbourne: peaceful, panoramic, and unforgettable.
From that first golden light in the sky to late-night drinks by the river, here’s how to fit a full Melbourne experience into just 24 hours.
5:00 am – Rise and Shine
Your day begins early, long before the city wakes.
Head to the meeting point for your sunrise hot air balloon flight — the highlight of your entire trip.
As the burners ignite and the balloon lifts off, you’ll drift silently above Melbourne’s landmarks: the MCG, the Yarra River, Federation Square, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Below, the city glows in soft pink and gold. Above, the sky stretches endlessly.
It’s calm, surreal, and the perfect way to see Melbourne from a new perspective.
7:30 am – Champagne Breakfast
After landing, celebrate your flight with an optional champagne breakfast — a long-standing ballooning tradition.
Toast the morning, enjoy a relaxed meal, and share stories from the sky.
Then, it’s time to see the city from ground level.
9:00 am – Coffee & Laneways
No Melbourne morning is complete without coffee.
Head to Degraves Street or Hardware Lane for espresso and pastries amid the buzz of the city.
Take a few minutes to explore the laneways nearby — Hosier Lane is covered in vibrant street art that changes daily. Every turn feels like a secret waiting to be discovered.
11:00 am – Explore the Cultural Core
Stroll to Federation Square, where you’ll find the ACMI Museum and Ian Potter Centre.
If you love art, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is just across the river and showcases everything from Australian classics to international exhibitions.
For nature lovers, the Royal Botanic Gardens are a short walk away — peaceful, green, and perfect for a mid-morning breather.
1:00 pm – Lunch by the River
Cross to Southbank Promenade, where restaurants line the Yarra River.
Try Arbory Afloat for relaxed dining with a view, or Ponyfish Island for something casual and scenic.
Watch the boats pass, soak in the sunshine, and enjoy Melbourne’s easy rhythm.
3:00 pm – Afternoon Adventures
Spend your afternoon exploring one of Melbourne’s neighbourhoods:
Fitzroy: Trendy cafés, boutique stores, and local art.
Carlton: Classic Italian food and the beautiful Carlton Gardens.
St Kilda: Seaside walks, palm trees, and ocean breeze.
Each area has its own personality — lively, stylish, and distinctly Melbourne.
6:00 pm – Sunset from Above (Again)
For the perfect bookend to your day, head to a rooftop bar and watch the sunset where your morning began — in the sky.
QT Rooftop — modern and glamorous.
Loop Roof — lush greenery and panoramic views.
Naked in the Sky — Fitzroy’s iconic spot for cocktails and skyline photos.
Sip, relax, and reflect on your morning adventure.
8:00 pm – Dinner & Night Strolls
Choose from Melbourne’s endless dining options:
Chin Chin for vibrant modern Thai.
Tipo 00 for handmade Italian pasta.
Supernormal for Japanese-inspired flavours.
After dinner, wander along Flinders Street or Southbank, where lights shimmer on the river and musicians play under the bridges.
Midnight – Rest Easy
You’ve flown, walked, eaten, and explored — all in one unforgettable day.
Few cities let you begin in the clouds and end beside the water, but Melbourne does it perfectly.
✨ Ready to make the most of your 24 hours?
Start your day with a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight over Melbourne, then follow this itinerary to experience the city from every angle — sky to street, sunrise to stars.