You may not consider Melbourne a great travel destination choice when you’re on a limited budget. But many penny-pinching travelers have learned that it is possible to explore Melbourne and have a great time.  There’s just so many things to see and do in this vibrant city that won’t cost a fortune, that it’s possible to go on a vacay for under $300. And we’ve listed all the money-saving tips for you here.

Spend the day at St. Kilda Beach

St. Kilda Beach is not that far of a drive from Melbourne and is certainly worth spending a day in. This is one of the most famous surf spots in Australia, which is really something because we all know that Australia is home to some of the best surfing beaches in the world. The great weather, white sand and clear waters make the perfect day at the beach and because it’s close, you’re not far away from the city proper.

Drive Along Scenic Great Ocean Road

Driving along the scenic Great Ocean Road is on every traveler’s bucket list. Much like Highway 101 in California, USA this is a winding, breathtaking road that offers incredible coastal views for hundreds of miles in either direction. This is by far the best way to get a feel for this golden region with its undeveloped coast, surfer hamlets, and lad back beach towns. Take your time driving along the GOC to understand the beauty of the region. Best part? There are no tolls in GOC, so this once in a lifetime trip won’t eat too much on your budget.

Visit the Melbourne Gardens

You don’t have to drive out of Melbourne to see the beautiful Gardens. Located well within city limits, Melbourne Gardens is home to over 50,000 different species of plant and tree, all set nicely on a lush and stunning grounds that remains one of the world’s greatest urban parks and gardens. You will not run out of activities in the park, too. There are always festivals and gatherings and farmers markets, hiking and running trails throughout the park, or just settle down and have a nice picnic in one of the meadows on a sunny day. You’re going to forget that you’re in the city when you’re in the gardens -it’s that peaceful and beautiful.

Stroll Along the Streets

Melbourne is a city best explored on foot. The coastal views, unique shops and great restaurants make every city stroll worthwhile. Here you will find a vibrant city full to the brim of things to see and do. And this won’t cost you money, either. Walking these streets is free, after all, so you are encouraged to pull up your car and walk the streets to check out street fairs, go people watching, take photos of the amazing architecture. With incredible city views, you’ll find that it’s a great way to spend the day.

Go Camping in Yarra Valley

Even if you’re in the city, don’t forget that the vineyard country is just a short drive away. And one of the best in the country is Yarra Valley. This scenic region is home to dozens of wineries, which means you can go on a tour of the wineries to see how things are done and best of all, sample the product. And this part of the region also has some great camping areas. So, make sure you’ve got your tent, solar panels for camping and the rest of your gear before you make the drive.

For budget travelers in Australia, there is a great deal that you can see and do in the gorgeous city of Melbourne that won’t cost a lot of money. You can easily spend several days in the city for much less than $300, which you can use on food and other travel essentials. Across the city there are free activities and there’s so much to see we can’t even write all them down for you. Point is, you do not have to spend a fortune on a great trip in one of the most gorgeous cities in the world, Mebourne.