Melbourne’s weather has a reputation for being unpredictable. But if you time your visit right, you can really catch the city at its best.
The most comfortable times to visit Melbourne are during autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November), when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. These seasons bring clear days, fewer extremes, and a lively atmosphere across the city.
If you love hot, sunny days, summer from December to February brings the warmest temperatures, often climbing above 30°C (86°F). Maybe you prefer crisp air and quieter spots—then winter from June to August gives you cool days, cozy indoor experiences, and easy access to snow in nearby regions.
When you know how the seasons shape Melbourne, it’s much easier to plan your trip. Whether you want to stroll through blooming gardens, relax by the coast, or take a countryside day trip, your choice of season really sets the tone.
Overview of Melbourne’s Climate and Seasons
Melbourne has a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. Spring and autumn bring variable conditions.
People know the city for its sudden weather shifts. You might see sunshine, rain, and wind all in one day.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Summer runs from December to February and brings the warmest weather. You’ll often get sunny, dry days, and sometimes heatwaves push temperatures above 30°C (86°F).
During this time, outdoor events and beaches are at their busiest.
Autumn (March to May) feels more stable, with cooler mornings and mild afternoons. Fog can show up early, but it usually clears, leaving comfortable conditions for exploring parks and gardens.
Winter (June to August) is the coldest stretch. Days are short, skies tend to be cloudy, and temperatures stay cool.
Snow never falls in the city, but nearby alpine regions get regular snowfall. That makes winter a good time for skiing trips.
Spring (September to November) is the most unpredictable season. You might need both sunglasses and an umbrella on the same day.
Temperatures rise gradually, and gardens across the city burst into bloom.
Temperature Ranges Throughout the Year
Melbourne’s temperatures shift noticeably as the year goes on.
- Summer: 14 – 25°C (57 – 77°F) on average, with occasional spikes above 35°C (95°F).
- Autumn: 11 – 20°C (52 – 68°F), with mild afternoons and cooler nights.
- Winter: 6 – 14°C (43 – 57°F), and wind chill can make it feel even colder.
- Spring: 10 – 20°C (50 – 68°F), with wide daily fluctuations.
You’ll find the warmest weather in January and February. The coolest days usually arrive in July.
These changes help you decide when to visit, depending on whether you want summer heat or something milder.
Rainfall and Humidity Trends
Rain falls throughout the year in Melbourne, not just in one season. October is usually the wettest month, with about 10 days of rain.
Showers are mostly light and brief, but they can sneak up on you.
Humidity stays moderate compared to tropical places. In summer, the air feels dry and hot, while winter brings dampness thanks to clouds and cool winds.
Frosts sometimes appear on winter mornings, but heavy rain rarely happens.
It’s smart to pack layers and a light rain jacket no matter when you visit. That way, you can enjoy the city comfortably in any season.
Season-by-Season Guide to Visiting Melbourne
Melbourne’s climate changes a lot through the year, and each season brings its own vibe, weather, and events.
Your experience depends on whether you want hot summer days, mild autumn evenings, crisp winter air, or the fresh blooms of spring.
Summer: December to February
Summer brings warm to hot weather, with average temperatures between 14°C and 27°C. Sometimes heatwaves push days above 35°C.
Rainfall is lower than in other seasons, but sudden showers still pop up, so light rain gear comes in handy.
Tourists flock to Melbourne in summer. The Australian Open in January fills hotels and restaurants quickly.
Beaches like St Kilda and Brighton buzz with swimmers, sunbathers, and paddleboarders.
Expect higher prices for flights and accommodation. If you love outdoor dining, rooftop bars, and long evenings by the bay, this season’s for you.
Just plan early and book tickets ahead to avoid missing out.
Autumn: March to May
Autumn is one of the best times to visit. Daily temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C, with fewer extremes than summer.
Rainfall is moderate, and humidity drops compared to spring, making outdoor activities more pleasant.
This season is perfect for exploring Melbourne’s laneways, cafes, and cultural spots. You can also hike in the Dandenong Ranges or along the Great Ocean Road without battling the summer heat.
Major events include the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival in March and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival in April.
These draw visitors, but not in overwhelming numbers, so the crowds stay manageable.
Winter: June to August
Winter is the coldest time, with average temperatures from 8°C to 15°C.
Mornings and evenings can feel especially chilly, so you’ll want warm layers. Rainfall is lower than in spring, but humidity is higher, making the air feel damp.
Tourist numbers drop, so this is the quietest and most affordable season. You’ll wait less at museums, galleries, and restaurants.
If you like winter sports, ski resorts like Mt Buller, Falls Creek, and Mt Hotham are within reach for day or weekend trips.
This is also a nice time to visit hot springs in Mornington Peninsula or spas in Daylesford. Indoor attractions feel extra cozy without the summer crowds.
Spring: September to November
Spring brings mild to warm weather, with temperatures from 9°C to 23°C. Rainfall is higher than in autumn, so keep an umbrella handy.
Despite the showers, the city feels lively with blooming gardens and longer daylight hours.
Outdoor activities shine in spring. The Royal Botanic Gardens look their best, and wildlife tours to Phillip Island draw plenty of visitors.
Hiking trails are appealing before the summer heat returns.
Spring is also Melbourne’s biggest season for horse racing. The Spring Racing Carnival runs through October and November, with Melbourne Cup Day in early November attracting large crowds.
If you’re planning to go, book your accommodation well in advance.
Monthly Weather Breakdown
Melbourne’s weather shifts a lot throughout the year. Hot, dry summers contrast with cool, damp winters.
Spring and autumn bring milder conditions that many travelers find most comfortable.
January Weather Highlights
January is Melbourne’s hottest month. Daytime highs often reach 27–30°C (80–86°F), and heatwaves can push temperatures above 35°C.
Nights are milder, averaging around 16°C, so evenings stay comfortable for outdoor dining or events.
Rainfall is low, and skies are mostly clear. You’ll enjoy long daylight hours, with sunset after 8:30 PM.
This makes January ideal for beach visits, rooftop bars, and late-night festivals.
Still, Melbourne’s “four seasons in a day” reputation means you should carry sunscreen, a hat, and a light layer.
March and May Transitions
Autumn kicks off in March and runs through May. Temperatures drop gradually from about 24°C in March to 17°C in May, with cooler nights averaging 10–13°C.
Rainfall stays moderate, and conditions are stable enough for walking tours, wine region visits, and garden strolls.
Autumn also brings beautiful foliage in parks like the Carlton Gardens and Royal Botanic Gardens.
Tourist numbers thin out after summer. You’ll find cheaper hotel rates and fewer crowds at popular attractions.
March still feels festive with major events, but by May, the city settles into a calmer, more relaxed pace.
July and August Conditions
July and August mark the peak of winter. Average highs sit between 13–15°C, and lows dip to 6–7°C.
Days are short, and overcast skies are common.
Rainfall isn’t extreme, but drizzle and fog often roll in, especially in the mornings.
Winds can make it feel colder than the thermometer says, so you’ll want a warm, windproof jacket.
Fewer people visit during this season, so you get lower travel costs.
Indoor attractions like museums, galleries, and laneway cafes become even more appealing.
If you’re into skiing or snowboarding, nearby Mt Buller makes winter sports easy to reach within a few hours’ drive.
October and November Trends
Spring hits its stride in October and November. Average highs climb to 18–22°C, with nights around 10–12°C.
Days can swing quickly from sunny to rainy, so it’s smart to pack both light layers and an umbrella.
October is Melbourne’s wettest month, but rain usually comes in short bursts.
Gardens and parks are vibrant, and wildflowers bloom along drives like the Great Ocean Road.
November brings a festive buzz with the Melbourne Cup horse race, a major public holiday.
Outdoor activities are popular again, and moderate temperatures make sightseeing comfortable without the summer heat or winter chill.
Major Events and Festivals by Season
Melbourne’s calendar is packed with major sporting events, cultural festivals, and seasonal traditions.
The timing of these activities often matches the city’s changing weather, giving you new reasons to visit every season.
Australian Open and Summer Highlights
Summer in Melbourne, from December to February, brings warm days and long evenings.
The Australian Open stands out as the most famous event, one of tennis’s four Grand Slam tournaments.
Matches happen at Melbourne Park, where temperatures can climb above 30°C, so you’ll need sun protection and plenty of water if you go.
Beyond tennis, summer features outdoor concerts, rooftop cinemas, and lively beach scenes in St Kilda.
Parks offer shade and host open-air events, making this season a treat for anyone who loves being outside.
If you’re into festivals, you’ll find multicultural food markets and New Year’s celebrations across the city.
These events showcase Melbourne’s diversity, and you get a taste of its international food and music culture.
Autumn Festivals and Cultural Events
Autumn, from March to May, is a fantastic time to explore Melbourne. Mild temperatures let you enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities without the extremes.
This season is packed with major cultural events.
The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival stands out, offering tastings, cooking demos, and regional tours.
You can try dishes from top chefs and explore Victoria’s wine regions with guided events.
Another big draw is the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, one of the world’s largest.
Performances range from stand-up to theatre, with venues all over the city.
These events give you a chance to experience Melbourne’s creative side in a relaxed climate.
Spring Racing Carnival and Melbourne Cup
Spring, from September to November, is all about horse racing.
The Spring Racing Carnival brings a series of big events that attract both locals and visitors.
The most famous day is the Melbourne Cup, held on the first Tuesday in November.
People call it the “race that stops a nation,” and Melbourne Cup Day is a public holiday in Victoria.
Thousands flock to Flemington Racecourse, while many more celebrate at homes, restaurants, and workplaces.
Racing events in spring come with fashion, social gatherings, and fine dining.
If you plan to go, expect big crowds, formal dress codes, and busy transport.
Spring weather can flip fast, so be ready for both sunshine and sudden showers.
Winter Activities and Indoor Attractions
Winter in Melbourne, running from June to August, brings the coolest weather, with average highs around 13–15°C. Outdoor events slow down, so the city turns its energy indoors instead.
It’s a great time to check out museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. The National Gallery of Victoria rolls out major exhibitions during winter, and the Melbourne Museum has plenty for families.
You’ll also find the city’s theatres buzzing with musicals, plays, and concerts. There’s no shortage of indoor entertainment, honestly.
Melbourne’s food scene really comes alive in winter. Warm up in laneway cafes, grab dumplings in Chinatown, or hunt down the best hot chocolate in the city.
If you’re up for a short escape, the Yarra Valley isn’t far, offering cozy wineries with fireplaces and hearty meals that just hit differently when it’s cold.
Best Outdoor Activities and Day Trips by Weather
Mild, sunny days open up Melbourne’s coastlines, gardens, and scenic drives. Cooler or rainy weather means you’ll want shorter walks or sheltered spots, but with some planning, you can still get out and explore.
Exploring the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road stands out as one of Australia’s iconic drives, stretching over 240 kilometers along Victoria’s southern coast. You’ll catch rugged cliffs, surf beaches, and the famous Twelve Apostles.
Aim for spring or autumn for this trip, when the weather feels mild and the roads aren’t packed. Summer has long daylight hours, but crowds and hotel prices spike.
Winter? It gets windy and wet, but honestly, the dramatic coastal views are still worth seeing.
Along the way, stop in Lorne for its beach and cafes. Apollo Bay makes a good base if you want to check out Great Otway National Park.
Don’t skip the short hikes to waterfalls like Erskine Falls—they’re especially stunning right after it rains.
A typical day trip takes 10–12 hours, though staying overnight lets you slow down and enjoy it more. Definitely bring layers, as the coastal weather can flip fast, even in summer.
Nature Walks and Gardens
Melbourne’s parks and gardens shine on mild days. The Royal Botanic Gardens has shaded paths, lakeside views, and seasonal displays.
Spring bursts with color from blooming flowers, while autumn brings those deep, striking leaves.
If you crave a wilder setting, head for the Dandenong Ranges. Trails like the 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk draw visitors year-round, but spring and autumn offer the nicest weather.
Winter brings misty mornings that add a certain mood, though trails can get slippery.
For a day trip, check out Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens. Ornamental lakes and bridges sit under towering mountain ash trees, and autumn’s golden leaves make it a photographer’s favorite.
Always pack a light rain jacket. Melbourne’s weather can surprise you, even when the skies look clear.
Beach and Coastal Activities
When it’s hot in summer, Melbourne’s beaches really come alive. St Kilda Beach is closest, with swimming, kite surfing, and a lively promenade.
Brighton Beach stands out for its colorful bathing boxes—perfect for that classic Melbourne photo.
Looking for quieter vibes? Drive out to the Mornington Peninsula. You’ll find calm bayside beaches for swimming, plus surf beaches if you want more action.
Summer’s got the warmest water, but spring and early autumn work well for coastal walks too.
Wildlife fans should visit Phillip Island for the evening penguin parade. It runs all year, but you’ll want to bundle up in winter since it gets chilly after sunset.
Check the UV index before heading out, because Australia’s sun can be harsh even on cool days. Sunscreen, hats, and water are must-haves for any beach trip.
Travel Tips for Choosing When to Visit
Melbourne’s weather changes fast, and every season has its quirks. You’ll want to balance comfort, crowds, and costs, but always be ready for sudden shifts in weather—even within the same day.
Balancing Weather and Crowds
Autumn (March–May) and spring (September–November) are Melbourne’s sweet spots. Daytime temps usually sit between 15°C and 25°C, perfect for walking, sightseeing, or eating outside.
Summer (December–February) gets busy, especially around Christmas and school holidays. Beaches, markets, and big attractions fill up fast. If you want fewer crowds, skip these months or go early in the day.
Winter (June–August) brings cooler weather, with temps from 7°C to 15°C, and you’ll find far fewer tourists. It’s the best time if you want to enjoy museums, galleries, and cafes without the lines.
Accommodation and Costs by Season
Hotels and flights cost much more in summer, especially from late December through January. Book early if you’re traveling then. Popular spots near the city center and the beach fill up first and charge the most.
Autumn and spring are shoulder seasons, so you’ll get mid-range prices and better availability. These months offer a nice mix of mild weather and good value.
Winter is the cheapest season. Hotels drop their rates, flights get more affordable, and last-minute deals pop up everywhere. If you don’t mind the chill, it’s by far the most budget-friendly time to visit.
Packing Recommendations for Each Season
Melbourne’s weather changes all the time, so you’ll want to pack layers no matter when you visit. Toss a light jacket, an umbrella, and some comfy walking shoes into your bag—you’ll probably need them.
In summer, grab breathable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Sometimes the heat just hits, and temps soar past 30°C, so you really don’t want to forget sun protection.
Autumn and spring can’t seem to make up their minds. Bring a light sweater, and don’t skip a waterproof jacket in case a shower sneaks up on you or evenings get chilly.
Winter in Melbourne feels colder than you’d expect. Pack a warm coat, scarf, and gloves. The city doesn’t get much snow, but mornings can be pretty cold and damp.
If you’re heading up to the alpine areas, throw in some thermal layers and sturdy shoes. It’s worth being prepared, even if you’re not planning on skiing.