Australia, Oceania & Pacific
Melbourne in November
The Melbourne Cup on the first Tuesday brings a public holiday and a citywide party. Book that week early.
The straight answer
November is one of the best months of the year to visit Melbourne. The Melbourne Cup on the first Tuesday brings a public holiday and a citywide party. Book that week early.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 72F (22C), changeable
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What November is like in Melbourne
November is warm and bright, with highs near 72F (22C), though the weather can still swing from sunny to cool in a day. The Melbourne Cup on the first Tuesday is a public holiday and a citywide party, and crowds and prices rise that week. Outdoor dining and rooftop bars come back to life as summer approaches.
This month suits couples, food lovers, racing fans, and families who want warm days without summer's heat waves. It is one of the best months overall. If you want a quieter, cheaper stay, avoid Cup week or come in October instead.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Melbourne this month.
The Melbourne Cup
The race that stops a nation runs at Flemington on the first Tuesday of November. Even if you skip the track, the city throws parties everywhere.
Rooftop and outdoor dining
Warm evenings bring the city's rooftop bars and outdoor tables back to life.
Phillip Island in late spring
The penguin parade and the Koala Conservation Reserve make an easy family day trip. Longer days mean a later sunset show.
What to pack for November
- A smart outfit and hat if you are going to the races
- A light jacket for cool changes
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Comfortable shoes for walking the city
Our timing tip
Book Cup week hotels early, and remember many businesses close or open late on the Tuesday public holiday.
Book Melbourne for November.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in MelbourneOpens a hotel search for Melbourne in November, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in MelbourneWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in MelbourneTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Melbourne for November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in November
Melbourne Cup
The first Tuesday of November
The race that stops a nation, at Flemington, is a public holiday in Melbourne and the centerpiece of the Spring Racing Carnival.
Things to do in Melbourne
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.
Melbourne Cricket Ground
Take a stadium tour or, better, catch an AFL game from March to September or cricket in summer.
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.
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
Some 94 acres (38 hectares) of gardens beside the Yarra, beautiful in spring and autumn.
Phillip Island Penguin Parade
Little penguins waddle ashore at sunset every night of the year. Book ahead in summer and dress warmly year-round.
The Great Ocean Road
Coastal cliffs, surf towns, and the Twelve Apostles. Best as an overnight trip; spring and autumn avoid summer traffic.
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 November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Melbourne?
November is one of the best months of the year to visit Melbourne. The Melbourne Cup on the first Tuesday brings a public holiday and a citywide party. Book that week early.
What is the weather like in Melbourne in November?
Warm, highs near 72F (22C), changeable.
Is Melbourne crowded in November?
Melbourne is busy in November, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
What is happening in Melbourne in November?
Melbourne Cup (the first tuesday of november).
Keep planning Melbourne.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
Sponsored links. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Visit Faye
Travel insurance.
FayeA missed connection, a bag that never turns up, a hospital abroad: far cheaper to cover before departure than to argue about after.
- Visit Saily
eSIM data.
SailySet up an eSIM before you fly so your phone has data the moment you land, without roaming charges.
Our top-rated travel gear
Whatever you decide, this is the gear we actually travel with: verified, priced, and ranked. Live price check on each.
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.