One of the best ways to see Melbourne from a different perspective is by visiting some of the best lookouts in the city.
There are many vantage points scattered throughout the city that offer breathtaking views of Melbourne’s skyline, iconic landmarks, and stunning natural vistas.
From the top of tall buildings to lush parks and gardens, these scenic lookouts provide stunning photos opportunities and an excellent opportunity to appreciate the best Melbourne views.
Best Lookout Points Melbourne
1. Melbourne Skydeck
Melbourne Skydeck is located on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower and where you can experience the best views in Melbourne thanks to its highest vantage point.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this popular lookout point is a must-visit as it offers breathtaking views of Melbourne’s stunning cityscape.
You can even step out onto The Edge, a glass cube that extends out from the side of the building, for a thrilling 360-degree view – it’s not for the faint-hearted!
In addition the multi-million-dollar Voyager Theatre is the first of  its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. taking you on a voyage of discovery through Melbourne and Victoria in Super high-definition 8K video with 6D sensory immersion. Feel your stomach drop as you virtually ride the Luna Park Scenic Railway!
Conclude your experience at Bar 88 (by Bollinger) with a delicious array of drinks and snacks brought to you by the Eureka 89 restaurant.
Read the Melbourne Skydeck review.
Melbourne Skydeck, Riverside Quay, Southbank, Melbourne, 3006 (03) 9693 8888 Admin@Melbourneskydeck.com.au
2. Rooftop Bar, Curtin House
Soak in a stunning view of the city with Melbourne’s original rooftop bar – the Rooftop Bar at Curtin House.
The bar is located in the heart of Swanson Street, making it a convenient and stunning way to get to experience an iconic Melbourne night view with the Blade Runner-esque city skyline.
Rooftop Bar, Curtin House, Level 7 Curtin House, 252 Swanston St, VIC 3000, Call (03) 96545394, info@rooftopbar.co
3. No 35 Restaurant, Melbourne
No35 is the Sofitel Melbourne’s restaurant on the 35th floor – and the best view in Melbourne you’re going to get from a bathroom!
This ‘loo with a view’ offers floor to ceiling windows overlooking famous Melbourne landmarks, including the Yarra River and the MCG.
Don’t forget to snap a photo for your Instagram feed!
No 35 Restaurant, Level 35, 25 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, +61 3 9653 7744
4. Williamstown Beach, Williamstown
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to enjoy Port Phillip Bay views against the stunning backdrop of the city skyline, head to Williamstown Beach.Â
This popular beach destination is not just for swimming and soaking up the sun – it’s also one of the best lookout points in Melbourne for sunset views. Watch the waters change colour as the sun sets in the west.
Williamstown Beach, 14 Esplanade, Williamstown, Melbourne, VIC
5. Albert Park Lake, Albert Park
Albert Park Lake is just 3km from the centre of Melbourne and is a popular location for joggers, walkers and cyclists.
When you reach the southern end of the lake, take a moment to enjoy the magnificent views back towards the city skyline.
Albert Park is home to Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre and many events, from fun runs to cycling events, pet-friendly meetups and the Australian Grand Prix.
Albert Park, 23 Aughtie Drive, Albert Park VIC 3206, 13 1963
6. Shrine of Remembrance
The Shrine of Remembrance is Victoria’s national memorial honouring the service and sacrifice of Australians in war and peacekeeping
This Melbourne’s iconic landmark has an observation deck that offers stunning views of the city, while inside you can discover the real-life stories of Australians in wartime and find areas for peaceful reflection.
Read the review of Shrine of Remembrance.
Shrine of Remembrance, Birdwood Ave, Melbourne VIC 3001, Australia
7. Birrarung Marr, Melbourne
Birrarung Marr is located on the north side of the Yarra River next to Federation Square, and the park offers stunning views of the south bank of Melbourne, especially at night.
If you’re visiting Birrarung Marr with children, drop into the children’s art centre and gallery ArtPlay or visit the ArtPlay Playground.
Other features of Birrarung Marr include Deborah Halpern’s two-headed Angel sculpture, the Federation Bells and Birrarung Wilam installation.
Birrarung Marr, Melbourne VIC 3004, Australia
8. Gem Pier, Williamstown
Gem Pier, located off Commonwealth Reserve, is the perfect starting point for exploring early Victoria’s maritime history as well as offering scenic views of the boat marina and the city. The sparking bay and city skyline makes for a romantic lookout too.
The floating maritime museum HMAS Castlemaine is permanently docked at Gem Pier, you can see Melbourne from up high with Melbourne Seaplanes and there are barbecues, picnics and playground nearby.
Gem Pier, 1 Syme St, Williamstown VIC 3016, Australia
9. St Kilda Pier, St Kilda
St Kilda Pier offers panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline and Port Phillip Bay, and is a popular destination for a stroll, cycling, rollerblading and fishing.Â
The pier has nearby barbeque, picnic and playground facilities or enjoy a snack from the restored heritage kiosk.
You can take a stroll along the sandy shores, grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants nearby, and then settle in to watch the sun sink below the horizon.
St Kilda Breakwater is also home to a colony of Little Penguins. Just before dusk you can view the colony climbing the rocks from the promenade on the St Kilda Breakwater.
St Kilda Pier, Pier Rd, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
10. Ruckers Hill, Northcote
Located in the heart of hip Northcote, Ruckers Hill is a historic spot offering stunning views of the Melbourne city skyline.
It’s also conveniently located near the Yarra River and Merri Creek bike trail (which will take you past Abbotsford Convent, Collingwood Children’s Farm, and Yarra Bend Park) and the many bars and eateries along High Street.
11. SkyHigh Mount Dandenong, Mt Dandenong
SkyHigh lookout is just a short drive from Melbourne and situated on the top of Mount Dandenong. It offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.
Stroll through the beautiful landscaped gardens and cool ferny glades, take a forest walk under a canopy of towering Australian eucalypts, visit the Australiana Tree, or relax on the Giant’s Chair!
While you’re there enjoy a coffee break at the SkyHigh bistro or dinner at the SkyHigh restaurant. There are also gas barbecues (charges apply), lawn areas for a picnic and picnic tables.
SkyHigh Mount Dandenong, 26 Observatory Road, Mount Dandenong, Victoria, 3767 03 9751 0443
12. Burkes Lookout, Mt Dandenong
The other nearby viewpoint to visit in the Dandenong Ranges is Burke’s Lookout. It does involve a short walk along Kyeema Track to reach the best viewpoint.
Note that the area at Burkes Lookout is not set up for groups and there are no seats, picnic tables, or a flat area to sit.
Burkes Lookout, Osprey Road, Mount Dandenong VIC 3767, Australia
13. Royal Park, Parkville
Royal Park is the largest open space in the City of Melbourne, covering 170 hectares. Stretches of open grass alternate with areas of lightly timbered eucalypt forest, sports grounds, wetlands and gardens.
The swings and the big grassy hill at Royal Park playground offer fantastic views of the Melbourne skyline, making it a great playground to take visitors with young children.
Royal Park, 1 Flemington Rd, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia
14. 100 Steps of Federation, Altona Meadows
The ‘100 Steps to Federation’ leads to the top of the 17m high mound that was once the Altona Tip.
The stone staircase is made of basalt rock recycled from when the area and 100 steps will take you to the highest point of land between Melbourne and the You Yangs. From there you can 360-degree view of the bay, Melbourne CBD and Cheetham Wetlands.
The mound is topped by a sculpture called the Time Beacon, created by the artist Cameron Robbins, which is a favourite of photographers with the sunset in the background.
The park has a shelter with tables and BBQ.
100 Steps to Federation, Andrew Park Dr, Altona Meadows VIC 3028, Australia
15. Point Ormond Lookout, Elwood
Found at Elwood Beach, Point Ormond at Elwood Beach is a popular spot along the bay for photographers chasing sunset-drenched views of the city.
Point Ormond, 29A Ormond Esplanade, Elwood VIC 3184, Australia
16. Sandridge Lookout, Port Melbourne
The Sandridge Lookout in Port Melbourne affords visitors shelter from the sun, wind and rain while at the same time providing them with excellent elevated views of the Melbourne skyline across the bay.
Sandridge Lookout, White Reserve, Port Melbourne VIC 3207, Australia
17. Wurundjeri Spur Lookout, Kew
The Kew lookout at Wurundjeri Spur Lookout offers an elevated vantage point for sweeping views to Melbourne CBD and across the Yarra River, Dights Falls and the northern suburbs as well.
Wurundjeri Spur Lookout. Yarra Blvd, Kew VIC 3101, Australia
18. Arthur’s Seat, Mornington Peninsula
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to take in the breathtaking Melbourne city views, head down to the Mornington Peninsula and visit Arthur’s Seat. This lookout point is the perfect for a day trip out of Melbourne.
Ride the Arthur’s Seat Eagle cable car and enjoy panoramic views of Melbourne city, Port Phillip Bay, and the surrounding countryside in comfortable surroundings.
There are also great car lookouts Melbourne along the road up to Arthur’s Seat, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route.Â
19. Flagstaff Gardens, Melbourne
Flagstaff Gardens offers a peaceful and tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of the Melbourne city centre and at its highest point it offers lovely Melbourne city views.
Take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and admire the lush greenery, shady trees, and peaceful water features. Then look up to admire the views of the Melbourne skyline.Â
20. Brighton Beach, Brighton
Brighton’s Beach Box is an iconic Melbourne landmark that provides breathtaking views of the water and back towards the Melbourne CBD. The sunset views are particularly spectacular.Â
Best hikes in Melbourne for families
Best picnic spots in Melbourne
Best gardens in Melbourne
