Carlton Gardens Tours

Carlton Gardens featuring a castle, a park and a pond
Carlton Gardens featuring autumn leaves and a square or plaza
Carlton Gardens featuring a park and autumn leaves as well as a family
Carlton Gardens featuring a park and heritage architecture
Carlton Gardens showing fall colors and a garden as well as a couple

These charming gardens and antique buildings are an ideal spot to relax within a gentle walking distance of the city.

Visit Carlton Gardens to enjoy scenic grounds and a range of cultural attractions. It is a slice of tranquility in Melbourne's bustling central business district. Sightseers flock to this spot, which contains 64 acres (24 hectares) of gardens and attractions, including the Royal Exhibition Building and the Melbourne Museum. Due to its aesthetic, scientific and cultural importance to the city, the area is classified as a World Heritage Site.

Wander the stunning gardens and see classical water fountains, flower displays and decorative lakes. Stroll through the diverse blend of Australian and European trees. Highlights include the Victorian-era Hochgurtel Fountain and the circular French Fountain. There is also a collection of Moreton Bay Figs, which was traditionally a meeting place for local Aboriginal people.

See brushtail possums and ducklings as you wander throughout the grounds. Serve up a few aces at the tennis courts. Take the kids to the playground, which is devised as a Victorian maze. It is full of slides, climbing frames and hiding places.

Embrace history at the Melbourne Museum, which offers many types of displays ranging from the history of dinosaurs, to technology and science. Immerse yourself in a 3-D movie at the IMAX theater, which has the world’s third largest screen. Take a guided tour of the Royal Exhibition Building and admire the domed structure.

Carlton Gardens was initially designed for the Melbourne International Exhibition, held in 1880. When it was built, the Great Hall was the largest building in Australia.

The site is based in the northeastern region of the city’s central business district. Take a tram to any of the stops along Victoria Street and Nicholson Street. Buses lead to Rathdowne Street right by the gardens. Ride the metro to Parliament Railway Station, a 2-minute walk from Carlton Gardens. The station is easily accessible from all lines.

Plan a trip to see Carlton Gardens

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Melbourne Private Apartments - Collins Wharf Waterfront, Docklands

Melbourne Private Apartments - Collins Wharf Waterfront, Docklands

4.5 out of 5
Docklands
Price was $1,947, price is now $1,443 per person
$1,443
per person
Oct 2 - Oct 7
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (155 reviews)
Having stayed here before, the view and ease of public transportation to city was great and worth returning to.

Reviewed on Jul 16, 2025

Stamford Plaza Melbourne

Stamford Plaza Melbourne

5 out of 5
Melbourne Central Business District
Price was $1,908, price is now $1,772 per person
$1,772
per person
Oct 30 - Nov 2
found 16 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
New York (JFK) to Melbourne (MEL)
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,690 reviews)
Great stay - perfect location. Nice pool.

Reviewed on Aug 13, 2025

Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne

Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne

4 out of 5
Melbourne Central Business District
Price was $1,886, price is now $1,753 per person
$1,753
per person
Oct 30 - Nov 2
found 16 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
New York (JFK) to Melbourne (MEL)
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,138 reviews)
I often stay here so I recommend the property. The renovations is a bit inconvenient but necessary I guess

Reviewed on Aug 18, 2025

Browse tours and tickets to explore Carlton Gardens

Tours & day trips

See all 324 activities
From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour

From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour

Activity duration is 13 hours and 30 minutes
9.0 out of 10 with 78 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $68 per adult
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Food, drink & nightlife

See all 100 activities
From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour

From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour

Activity duration is 13 hours and 30 minutes
9.0 out of 10 with 78 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $68 per adult
From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife TourOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 77 activities
Full-Day Private Australian Wildlife Tour of Phillip Island

Full-Day Private Australian Wildlife Tour of Phillip Island

Activity duration is 9 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $649 per traveler*
Full-Day Private Australian Wildlife Tour of Phillip IslandOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 21 activities
From Melbourne: Dandenong Ranges Private Day Tour

From Melbourne: Dandenong Ranges Private Day Tour

Activity duration is 6 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $292 per traveler*
From Melbourne: Dandenong Ranges Private Day TourOpens in new tab

Classes & workshops

See all 18 activities
Melbourne: Puffing Billy & Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour

Melbourne: Puffing Billy & Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour

Activity duration is 8 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 22 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $149 per adult
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Popular places to visit

Carlton Gardens featuring a castle, heritage architecture and a fountain

Royal Exhibition Building

Learn about the local history of Melbourne with a stop at Royal Exhibition Building. Amble around this vibrant area's picturesque gardens and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Royal Exhibition Building
Melbourne Museum showing interior views

Melbourne Museum

Explore Victoria, from the rich heritage of its First Peoples to its diverse natural environments, in one of Australia’s premier museums.

Melbourne Museum
Lygon Street which includes signage, heritage architecture and a city

Lygon Street

This boulevard of excellent restaurants, cafés, gelati bars and delicatessens is the heart of Melbourne’s Italian community.

Lygon Street
If you’re a rum lover you’ll absolutely love this place. A quirky bar with great atmosphere there are so many varieties to choose from. The menu offers taster runs from different countries and if rum isn’t your think try a cocktail.

Brunswick Street

During your trip to Melbourne, you can do some window-shopping at Brunswick Street. Wander around the gardens or enjoy the area's bars.

Brunswick Street
Old Melbourne Gaol

Old Melbourne Gaol

Experience the harsh justice of the 19th century and trace the final footsteps of bushranger Ned Kelly at this award-winning museum.

Old Melbourne Gaol
Princess Theatre showing street scenes, a high rise building and theater scenes

Princess Theatre

Considered by some to be Melbourne's most spectacular landmark, this majestic theater has been entertaining audiences since it opened more than 150 years ago.

Princess Theatre

Best Lodging Options Near Carlton Gardens

The Victoria Hotel Melbourne

The Victoria Hotel Melbourne

3.5 out of 5
215 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC
The Victoria Hotel Melbourne
Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne

Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne

4 out of 5
131-137 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC
Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne
Grand Hyatt Melbourne

Grand Hyatt Melbourne

5 out of 5
123 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC
Grand Hyatt Melbourne
Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens Melbourne

Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens Melbourne

4 out of 5
380 William Street, Melbourne, VIC
Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens Melbourne
Rydges Melbourne

Rydges Melbourne

4.5 out of 5
186 Exhibition Street,, Melbourne, VIC
Rydges Melbourne
The Langham, Melbourne

The Langham, Melbourne

5 out of 5
One Southgate Avenue, Southbank, VIC
The Langham, Melbourne
Great Southern Hotel Melbourne

Great Southern Hotel Melbourne

3.5 out of 5
44 Spencer Street, Melbourne, VIC
Great Southern Hotel Melbourne
Dorsett Melbourne

Dorsett Melbourne

4 out of 5
615 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne, VIC
Dorsett Melbourne
Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Little Collins by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Little Collins by IHG

4 out of 5
589-599 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC
Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Little Collins by IHG
See all 5,363 properties in Carlton Gardens
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Carlton Gardens

When visiting Carlton Gardens in Melbourne, you'll find a variety of activities to enjoy, including shopping and entertainment options. Don't miss the chance to explore local coffee shops and boutique stores nearby. The gardens also serve as a great events venue, making it perfect for tours and gatherings. Additionally, you can discover Melbourne's hiking trails for a taste of the great outdoors while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Food and drinks

Experience local flavors at Stomping Ground Brewery, just a mile from Carlton Gardens, perfect for a romantic evening. For a family-friendly sweet treat, try the Sissy Chocolate Making Class, located 10 miles away. Don't miss the entertainment vibes at Shadowfax Winery, 19 miles from the gardens.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Melbourne Central, just 0.6 miles from Carlton Gardens, offering a vibrant mix of family-friendly shops and entertainment. Additionally, Queen Victoria Market, located 0.8 miles away, is perfect for local goods. If you're up for a drive, explore Lightning Ridge Opal Mines, 0.7 miles away, for unique opal souvenirs.

Recreation

Marvel Stadium, located 2 miles from Carlton Gardens, offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. Just 0.5 miles away, Melbourne City Baths features a family-friendly pool perfect for recreation. For a broader aquatic experience, visit Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre, situated 3 miles away, ideal for family fun.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of surfing at URBNSURF Sports Park, located 10 miles from Carlton Gardens, where you can enjoy various water sports. For a scenic adventure, hike the Fitzroy Aboriginal Heritage Walking Trail, just 1 mile away, and soak in the natural beauty. Take a scenic flight with Melbourne Seaplanes, located 5 miles away, for stunning aerial views.

Nightlife

In Carlton Gardens, the nightlife buzzes with excitement. Crown Casino, a mile away, offers thrilling gaming and romantic city vibes. The nearby Princess Theatre, just 0.3 miles away, showcases cultural performances, while Young & Jackson's, 0.8 miles away, is perfect for drinks and entertainment in a lively atmosphere.

Find the best attractions near Carlton Gardens

During your visit to Carlton Gardens in Melbourne, explore the beautiful reserve filled with lush greenery and family-friendly areas. Don't miss the Melbourne Museum nearby, which offers a rich cultural experience. The gardens themselves are perfect for leisurely strolls, while the surrounding streets provide charming local shops and cafes to discover. Whether you're enjoying a family outing or soaking up the culture, Carlton Gardens is a delightful spot to explore.

  • Melbourne Cricket Ground: Experience the thrill of Australia's sports culture at this iconic stadium, known for its rich history and passionate crowds. Whether catching a cricket match or taking a guided tour, you'll feel the excitement that surrounds this legendary venue.
  • Collins Street: Stroll down this elegant street lined with stunning architecture, high-end boutiques, and charming cafes. Collins Street epitomizes the vibrant city vibe of Melbourne, perfect for shopping, dining, or simply enjoying the urban atmosphere.
  • Rod Laver Arena: Attend a concert or sporting event at this premier entertainment venue, known for hosting the Australian Open. With its family-friendly environment and top-notch facilities, it's a must-visit for entertainment lovers.

Best time to go to Carlton Gardens

Visitor numbers around Carlton Gardens is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Carlton Gardens can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Carlton Gardens falls in January, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Carlton Gardens falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
February68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July48.9°F (9.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
August49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
September53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Carlton Gardens

When visiting Carlton Gardens in Melbourne, take advantage of free entry and nearby attractions like Crown Casino and Queen Victoria Market. To save on accommodation, consider traveling during the cheaper months of May to June and August, and book your hotel about a month in advance. For spontaneous travelers, check Expedia for last-minute deals. Use their price filter to find the best rates, and consider booking a package to combine your hotel stay with flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and earn you future savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Carlton Gardens are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Carlton Gardens about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay at Carlton Gardens with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.