20 Free Things to Do in Melbourne When You’re on a Budget

We love a swanky dinner and a retail therapy sesh as much as the next person, but endless social engagements can leave the hip pocket hurting. Luckily, Melbourne offers no shortage of things to see and do that don’t cost a thing.

Whether it’s gazing at some of the most incredible art ever made, sampling morsels at the market or catching a free event at Fed Square, you can easily have a banger of a day on a budget of zilch.

So if you're strapped for cash until payday, take inspiration from this edit of budget-friendly or free things to do in Melbourne this summer. Your bank balance can thank us later.

Explore the City's Incredible Street Art Scene

From sweeping murals to ephemeral graffiti, Melbourne’s famed street art scene is among the world’s best. You won’t need to pay for admission or stand a metre back to bask in these intriguing and inspiring shows of creativity – so why not play tourist in your own city and check off these must-see attractions? 

See homages to rock legends along AC/DC Lane and 3D dioramas popping out of the walls in Presgrave Lane, hop a tram to mural-heavy Fitzroy or Footscray, or simply follow our comprehensive guide to Melbourne’s best street art.

Sitchu Tip: Our current pick of the CBD murals? This lush jungle tram design tucked away in Gallaghers Place. Otherwise, The Outsiders gallery space is a free exhibition highlighting the finest street art around the world. 

Check out a free exhibition at the NGV 

Immerse yourself in the creative brilliance of a free exhibition at the NGV. From stunning contemporary installations to timeless classics, there's always something captivating on display. Not in the mood to explore? Relax in the elegant foyer, soak in the architectural beauty, and enjoy a moment of calm in one of Melbourne’s most iconic cultural spaces.

180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

Play Tourist for the Day in Our Impressive Heritage Buildings

Melbourne’s significant buildings are the backdrop to our daily lives, but when was the last time you took a closer look? You can sign up for free tours of Parliament House, Melbourne Town Hall and the State Library, led by passionate and informative guides. See the ornate 22-carat gold leaf covering the ceiling of the Upper and Lower House, and hear the history of the extravagant Dome Reading Room that’s the subject of so many Instagram shots. You can even get complimentary travel between them thanks to the CBD’s free tram zone.

Learn about Aboriginal history and art at the Koorie Heritage Trust

The Koorie Heritage Trust’s Cultural Centre in Federation Square is a great place to learn more about Aboriginal history and culture in Victoria. Sign up to a free Birrarung Wilam (River Camp) walking tour, where experienced Koorie guides share how the land on which Melbourne is located has changed over time, and about the significance of the Birrarung Wilam to the local Kulin peoples. Back inside the centre, you can view rotating exhibitions showcasing contemporary art and design.

The Yarra Building, Federation Square

Open Air at the Square: Free Summer Entertainment in Melbourne

As the city hums with the warmth of summer, Fed Square becomes the vibrant heart of Melbourne with Open Air at the Square, a spectacular free program of music, cinema, and community celebrations. Imagine balmy nights under the stars, the iconic skyline as your backdrop, and a lineup that spans ARIA-winning artists, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and the ethereal notes of candlelit opera. Highlights include international stars like Alison Hinds and local legends like Ross Wilson, all gracing the stage for over 56 live gigs.

For film enthusiasts, the Outdoor Cinema is a dreamy escape from 3–27 January, offering everything from sci-fi techno thrillers like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and Tron: Legacy to a toe-tapping Dolly Parton Celebration, complete with a free boot-scootin’ workshop in honour of the country icon’s 79th birthday. Add to this the charm of Lunar New Year festivities and the quirky delights of the NGV Kids Summer Festival.

You can filter their What’s On page to see all the open access events coming up; and believe us when we say there's lots (get a notepad ready). Fed Square promises summer magic – all free, all ages, and utterly unmissable.

Go Regional 

With Victoria's regional train fares now capped at $9.20 per day, exploring charming towns like Ballarat, Bendigo, and Castlemaine has never been more affordable. Wander through historic streets, visit local markets and free museums, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of these destinations—all without breaking the bank. Hop on a V/Line train and let your adventure unfold. 

Visit the Newly Redeveloped St Kilda Pier 

Take a breezy stroll along the newly revamped St Kilda Pier, reopened in December 2024. Soak in jaw-dropping views of Melbourne’s glittering skyline and the endless Port Phillip Bay. Keep an eye out for cheeky little penguins and rakali along the way. Best of all? It’s completely free. Summer vibes, sorted.

Pier Road, St Kilda

Join a Run Club

Run Clubs have boomed in popularity this year, and part of the reason why is because they're a fun, free activity for anyone who's either trying to get into running or is a season pro. There are so many different run clubs across Melbourne, all offering different sessions for different levels of expertise.

If you enjoy running in the evening, the Nobody Run Club runs weekly on every Tuesday from 6pm, kicking off at the fountain at Carlton Gardens. Run South Yarra circles The Tan every Saturday at 6am and Ate Miles meets at MAAP LaB in Collingwood every second Wednesday at 7am if you prefer to start off bright and early.

There are plenty of other local options if you don't live close enough to the city.

Explore The Conservatory in Fitzroy Gardens

The Fitzroy Gardens is one of our favourite parks in East Melbourne, thanks to its beautiful Conservatory. While this Spanish Mission-style building opened in 1930, its beauty remains timeless. Within the Conservatory, you'll find stunning floral displays that are switched out five times a year. From hydrangeas to begonias, there is always something awe-inspiring to witness in this light-filled space. Be sure to check for closures during the installation of new displays throughout the year.

Fitzroy Gardens, East Melbourne

Clock Up Your Step Count on a Scenic Walk or Hike

Whether you like a gentle stroll or prefer your walks a little more strenuous, Melbourne has a track to suit everyone. Soak up the buzzing atmosphere of The Tan, a popular four kilometre walk looping around Kings Domain and the Royal Botanical Garden, and prepare to break a sweat scaling Heartbreak Hill. Alternatively, soak up ocean views and gawk at beachfront mansions along the Bayside Coastal Trail.

If you’re prepared to travel a little further afield, you’ll be rewarded with replenishing hikes that make you feel light years away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Our favourites include Lerderderg State Park or Werribee Gorge Circuit, which, complete with some steady climbs and river crossings, is a 10km bush walk offering a genuine taste of the bush within an hour's drive of the CBD.

See Melbourne on Two Wheels

Melbourne is famously friendly for cyclists and there are some seriously stunning trails around the city you can explore. The Merri Creek trail is one of our favourites, a gorgeously meandering path that passes by water, parkland, and the adorable animals of Collingwood Children’s Farm. Another is the St Kilda Beach to Half Moon Bay trail, a scenic 13km ride that’ll have the wind in your hair and seaside views by your side.

Go for a Scenic Drive

Need a change of scenery? Hop in the car and you catch some lovely vistas without travelling far from the city. Towering Mountain Ash trees and ferns surround you as you wind through the back roads of the Dandenong Ranges (embark on one these lovely nature walks while you’re there). Meanwhile, the Black Spur drive cuts through the Yarra Valley’s lush forest landscapes and offers phenomenal mountain views.

Hike the 1000 Steps Kokoda Trail

If you're a fitness lover whose after a free activity, why not get your steps up by 1000 or so and head to the Kokokda Trail? There are three different path options you can take, so no matter your fitness level, you'll be able to tackle the stairs! And if you still have some energy once you reach the top, you can continue on your hike to some gorgeous picnic grounds. Just remember you need to come backdown!

Tree Fern Gully Track, Tremont

Free Comedy in Brunswick

Looking for a laugh without spending a cent? Head to Comedy at Red Betty in Brunswick! A hidden gem for over three years, this free comedy night has become a beloved local favourite. Perfect for date night, a friends’ outing, or just some midweek giggles. Find the entrance on Houdini Lane via Cozens Street—good vibes guaranteed!

Sitchu Tip: Sundays at Red Betty mean $5 sausage rolls, $15 Bloody Marys, $30 Corona buckets, free vintage arcade games, and DJs playing nostalgic tunes. 

859a Sydney Road, Brunswick 

Dance the Night Away

If you're looking to dance without forking out a door fee, Wax Music Lounge on Flinders Street often hosts free DJ nights and live bands, making it perfect for a groovy night out. For a more laid-back vibe, head to Section 8, the open-air hotspot where you can rock up with ease. Expect a crowd of great dancers and friendly, super sexy folks—you might feel intimidated at first, but the energy is infectious! 

Have a Motley Jazz With Friends

You like jazz? How about free jazz? The Motley Jazz Bauhaus regularly hosts free jazz events featuring some of the most talented jazz musicians in Melbourne. Bring a friend along with you and enjoy the live tunes, which feature a mix of both classics and originals. Don't mind if we do!

118 Elgin Street, Carlton

Rock Out to Free (Or Very Cheap) Gigs

Catching your favourite artists can be an expensive business, given the pretty steep prices of music venues and festivals. However, there are a number of places across the city where you can watch live music for free or very cheap, with tickets from just $10. If you’re a purse-friendly muso, check out our guide to live music in Melbourne. Top picks include Cherry Bar and Richmond’s legendary Corner Hotel for a diverse range of rock, pop, techno, funk and punk every night of the week.

Window Shop Your Way Across Melbourne

Melbourne's shopping scene is unmatched, and despite saving your pretty pennies, that doesn't mean you can't build a wishlist, right? And one of the best free things to do in Melbourne is window shop. There are countless shopping strips, centres, markets and more for you to wander through, all you need to do is pick a location! There's the High Street shops in Armadale, all the fancy designer stores on the Paris End of Collins Street, or you can do a complete 180 and go (window) thrifting in Fitzroy and Brunswick. Just make sure to forget your wallet so that you're not tempted to swipe that card!

Sample Delicious Goodies at the Markets

Browsing an inner city market is one of the loveliest ways to spend a morning. Chock-full of gourmet providores, delicious eateries and vintage stores, every turn presents a sensory delight. While you could fill up on free samples of cheese and charcuterie alone (call it a frugal fromage binge), you can also eat handsomely with your spare change. Top picks include the piping hot jam doughnuts from American Doughnut Kitchen at Queen Victoria Market (a mere $6.50 for five), or moreish $4 boureks from South Melbourne Market.

Eat Your Way Across Asia via Melbourne 

When it comes to flavour-packed meals that won’t break the bank, Melbourne’s Asian eateries are in a league of their own. Sink your teeth into an $8 barbecue pork banh mi from Phuoc Thanh, a grab-it-with-two-hands classic, or treat yourself to a bougier twist at the ever-popular Banh Mi Stand for $16. Craving comfort in a bowl? A steamy serving of boat noodles from Soi 38 will warm your soul for under $15. And for dumpling devotees, Shanghai Village delivers crispy golden parcels of joy for just $9. Delicious, affordable, and undeniably satisfying—these beloved spots are a win for both your taste buds and your wallet.

Another great way to save money is by cooking and entertaining at home. You won’t miss restaurants with these 14 pasta recipes to comfort the soul, 14 easy snack recipes for effortless entertaining and eight margarita recipes to shake up your next dinner party.