Published 12 August 2026
6 minute read 
Modified 14 August 2026
by Journal Student Living
Melbourne is regularly ranked among the world’s best student cities, and it’s not just because of its universities. The city is filled with historic landmarks, sporting venues, beautiful gardens, galleries and laneways that quickly become part of everyday student life. Whether you’re new to Melbourne or looking to explore more of your home away from home, these iconic destinations should be at the top of your list.
One of the biggest advantages of living at Journal Student Living is being close to many of Melbourne’s most famous attractions. Journal Campus House in Carlton and Journal Market Way in Melbourne CBD place students within easy reach of the city’s cultural, sporting and entertainment precincts, making it easy to explore between lectures or on weekends.
More than 140 years old, Queen Victoria Market is one of Melbourne’s most famous landmarks and a must-visit for every student. Shop for affordable fresh produce, international groceries, grab a budget-friendly lunch or explore the famous Night Market. Students living at Journal Market Way are only a short walk away.
Perhaps Melbourne’s most recognisable building, Flinders Street Station, is both a transport hub and an iconic meeting place. Standing beneath the famous clocks is almost a rite of passage for new students.
Home to festivals, free events, outdoor screenings and ACMI, Federation Square is one of Melbourne’s best places to experience the city’s culture without spending money.
The magnificent La Trobe Reading Room is one of Australia’s most photographed libraries. Students can also access free study spaces, exhibitions, events and Wi-Fi.
Need a break from assignments? Spend an afternoon among 38 hectares of gardens, lakes and walking trails. It’s perfect for picnics, reading or simply switching off.
No visit to Melbourne is complete without seeing its world-famous street art. Every visit offers new murals, making it one of the city’s most photographed locations.
Learn about Australia’s history while enjoying panoramic views across Melbourne’s skyline and peaceful surrounding gardens.
Whether you watch AFL, cricket or tour the stadium, the MCG offers an authentic Melbourne experience unlike anywhere else in Australia.
Located opposite Federation Square, St Paul’s Cathedral provides a stunning contrast between Melbourne’s historic architecture and modern city skyline.
Walk along the Yarra River, enjoy public art, riverside restaurants and views back across the CBD. It’s especially beautiful at sunset.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site located close to Journal Campus House, this area combines beautiful gardens with one of Australia’s most significant historic buildings.
Although slightly further from the CBD, the colourful bathing boxes are one of Melbourne’s most photographed attractions and make a great weekend day trip.
Exploring Melbourne helps you feel connected to the city beyond campus. Many of these landmarks are free, close together and easily reached by public transport, making them ideal for weekend adventures, study breaks or showing family and friends around when they visit.
Journal Campus House places you opposite the University of Melbourne and within walking distance of Carlton Gardens, the State Library Victoria and Queen Victoria Market. Journal Market Way sits in the heart of Melbourne CBD, putting students close to shopping, dining, public transport and many of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Living centrally means less time commuting and more time experiencing everything Melbourne has to offer.
Choosing student accommodation isn’t just about being close to university. It’s about making the most of your time outside the classroom too. At Journal Student Living, Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks become part of your everyday lifestyle.
Explore Journal Market Way or Journal Campus House, book a tour or join the waitlist to find your place in the heart of Melbourne.
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