Events in Melbourne in August 2026

Visit Australia's home to the criminally insane, and Ararat's most visited attraction: the J Ward Lunatic Asylum. Explore the museum, followed by a ghost tour of the home of notorious criminals including Chopper Read, Gary Webb and William Wallace.

Visit some of Victoria’s top wineries in the stunning Yarra Valley on a full-day tour from Melbourne. Enjoy tutored tastings with your guide at 4 premium wineries and lunch at a winery restaurant.

Spend a day engaging with Australian wildlife and exploring the diverse coastline of Phillip Island on a bus tour. Watch little penguins waddle across the shores of Summerland Bay in the evening.

Explore Melbourne’s hidden alleyways and hear chilling tales on a guided tour. See where Chinatown’s spices hid opium smoke, poorhouses supplied bodies to science, and Jack the Ripper evaded police.

Within moments of departing Melbourne’s cultural arts precinct, you will cruise through Melbourne’s picturesque gardens and sporting arenas. Cruise past multiple famous places such as Melbourne Cricket Ground and the Royal Botanical Gardens.

See Melbourne exposed on this captivating 3-hour walking tour. From Gold Rush tales to vibrant street art, enjoy a local coffee & pub drink while getting under the skin of Australia's culture-capital.

Taste all the Yarra Valley has to offer on this laid-back day trip from Melbourne. Shape the itinerary to your preferences and enjoy tastings of wine, cider, gin, chocolate, and cheese.

Experience the world-famous Great Ocean Road and its panoramic vistas on a day trip from Melbourne. Discover the Great Otway National Park and Rainforest, marvel at the iconic 12 Apostles, and more.

Get picked up from central Melbourne and ride the Puffing Billy steam train. Enjoy a walk around Emerald Lake, visit the Healesville Sanctuary, and sample chocolate at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie.

Relax in nature with over 70 globally inspired thermal bathing experiences at the award-winning Peninsula Hot Springs on a day trip from Melbourne. Enjoy a great half-day activity and take a moment to stop and relax.