Australia, Oceania & Pacific

Melbourne in February

Summer holidays over and the city returns to work. Warm evenings and outdoor events, with occasional scorching days.

GoodWarm, highs near 79F (26C), dry, occasional heat waves

Melbourne skyline, Australia — MelbournePhoto: Dietmar Rabich, CC BY-SA 4.0

The straight answer

February is a good month to visit Melbourne. Summer holidays over and the city returns to work. Warm evenings and outdoor events, with occasional scorching days.

Weather: Warm, highs near 79F (26C), dry, occasional heat waves
Crowds: 3 of 5
Prices: 4 of 5

What February is like in Melbourne

February is warm and mostly dry, with highs near 79F (26C) and long evenings that are perfect for eating outside. School holidays are over and the city goes back to work, so crowds ease, though an occasional scorching day still turns up. Everything is open, and outdoor events keep the summer mood going.

This month suits couples, food lovers, and anyone who wants summer weather without January's tennis crowds and prices. Families with school-age kids may find it harder to travel now. If you want milder, more settled days and the big autumn festivals, go in March.

Make the most of February

What is especially good about Melbourne this month.

Summer without the rush

With holidays over, beaches, parks, and laneway cafes are easier to enjoy. Restaurant bookings are simpler too.

The Great Ocean Road in summer

Warm days suit a drive past surf towns to the Twelve Apostles, with far lighter traffic than in January. Stay overnight to see it at sunset.

Evenings in the Royal Botanic Gardens

Long warm evenings are ideal for a picnic by the lakes in the gardens beside the Yarra.

What to pack for February

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
A light jacket for cooler nights and sudden changes
Comfortable walking shoes for the laneways
A swimsuit for the bay or Great Ocean Road beaches

Our timing tip

Check for total fire ban days before driving to the Great Ocean Road or the Dandenongs, since some parks and trails close in extreme heat.

Book Melbourne for February.

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Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Melbourne
Opens a hotel search for Melbourne in February, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
Hotels for February
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Melbourne
Whole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
Rentals on Vrbo
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Melbourne
Timed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Melbourne for February. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Tours and tickets

Things to do in Melbourne

Full guide

National Gallery of Victoria

Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, split between the international collection on St Kilda Road and Australian art at Federation Square. General admission is free.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Take a stadium tour or, better, catch an AFL game from March to September or cricket in summer.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Queen Victoria Market

A historic market for produce, deli goods, and street food. It is closed on some weekdays, so check the day before you go.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Some 94 acres (38 hectares) of gardens beside the Yarra, beautiful in spring and autumn.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Phillip Island Penguin Parade

Little penguins waddle ashore at sunset every night of the year. Book ahead in summer and dress warmly year-round.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

The Great Ocean Road

Coastal cliffs, surf towns, and the Twelve Apostles. Best as an overnight trip; spring and autumn avoid summer traffic.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Beat the crowds

Check the sporting calendar before booking: the Australian Open, Grand Prix week, Grand Final week, and Melbourne Cup week drive hotel prices sharply higher.
Visit in April, May, or October for the best balance of good weather, lower prices, and busy but not overwhelming events.
Arrive at the Phillip Island Penguin Parade early, and consider upgraded viewing areas in summer when the main stands are packed.
Drive the Great Ocean Road against the tour-bus flow: start from the western end, or stay overnight so you are at the Twelve Apostles at sunrise.

Know before you go

Melbourne Cup Day (first Tuesday in November) and the Friday before the AFL Grand Final are public holidays in Victoria; some businesses close or open late.
Queen Victoria Market is closed on some weekdays; check current opening days before planning a visit.
Total fire ban days in summer can close some parks and trails around Victoria. Check conditions before driving to the Great Ocean Road or Dandenongs.
Christmas Day, Good Friday, and Anzac Day morning (April 25) see many shops and some attractions closed.

Melbourne in February, quick answers

Is February a good time to visit Melbourne?

February is a good month to visit Melbourne. Summer holidays over and the city returns to work. Warm evenings and outdoor events, with occasional scorching days.

What is the weather like in Melbourne in February?

Warm, highs near 79F (26C), dry, occasional heat waves.

Is Melbourne crowded in February?

Crowds in Melbourne are moderate in February; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.