Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

The Basics

Since 1846, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria have provided Melburnians with an escape from busy city life. With a mix of native and exotic plant species, there is always something interesting happening in this massive park. Many city tours pass by and discuss the gardens, one of the main highlights of the city, and specialized tours—such as Aboriginal heritage tours—go in-depth into its history and horticulture.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria are ideal for botany buffs and spontaneous travelers who want a respite from the busy streets of Melbourne.

• The gardens are free to enter.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a water bottle to enjoy your time strolling around the massive gardens.

• Except for the Melbourne Observatory buildings, the gardens are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. Wheelchairs are available at the visitor center and the Terrace Café from 9am to 5pm daily.

How to Get There

The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria are a 15-minute walk from Flinders Street Station. Many trams run up and down St. Kilda Road to the various garden entrances, which are located within the city’s Free Tram Zone.

When to Get There

The gardens are open daily from 7:30am to sunset. The best time to visit is in spring, when all the plants are in bloom and the city is less crowded.

An Indigenous History

Get to know Australia’s indigenous history and its native plant life at the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, which feature extensive information on Australia’s native people. For a richer cultural experience, take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk and learn how tribes use the plants as food and medicine, and even see a traditional smoking ceremony.