Australia, Oceania & Pacific
Melbourne in October
Spring racing and gardens at their best, and comfortable walking weather. A great all-round month.
The straight answer
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Melbourne. Spring racing and gardens at their best, and comfortable walking weather. A great all-round month.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 68F (20C), showers
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What October is like in Melbourne
October is one of Melbourne's best months. Highs sit near 68F (20C), and while showers come and go, it is comfortable walking weather. Gardens are at their best, and the Spring Racing Carnival builds toward the Melbourne Cup. Crowds are moderate and prices fair, making it a great all-round month.
It suits nearly everyone: families, couples, walkers, food lovers, and first-time visitors. It is especially good for day trips to the Great Ocean Road, the Yarra Valley, and Phillip Island before summer traffic. Only beach lovers should hold out for the warmer months of December to March.
Make the most of October
What is especially good about Melbourne this month.
Gardens in full bloom
The Royal Botanic Gardens are at their peak in spring. Bring a picnic and spend a slow afternoon by the lakes.
Spring racing season
The Spring Racing Carnival builds through October toward the Melbourne Cup, with race days and fashion around town.
Great Ocean Road before summer
Mild weather and lighter traffic make it a good month for an overnight drive to the Twelve Apostles.
What to pack for October
- A light rain jacket
- Layers for changing weather
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen, since spring sun is stronger than it feels
Our timing tip
Do the Great Ocean Road in October rather than summer, and stay overnight near the Twelve Apostles to see them in soft evening light.
Book Melbourne for October.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for October
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in MelbourneOpens a hotel search for Melbourne in October, 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 October. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
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 October, quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Melbourne?
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Melbourne. Spring racing and gardens at their best, and comfortable walking weather. A great all-round month.
What is the weather like in Melbourne in October?
Mild, highs near 68F (20C), showers.
Is Melbourne crowded in October?
Crowds in Melbourne are moderate in October; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
Keep planning Melbourne.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in October
Before you book.
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