Good Friday in Melbourne, falling on 3 April this year and marking the start of the four-day Easter weekend, is a restricted trading day, meaning many major retailers shut their doors for the day. But the good news is that plenty of restaurants, cafés, bars, and attractions remain open for those wanting to make the most of the break. So if you want to explore what’s open in Melbourne on Good Friday and across the Easter weekend, it’s best to plan ahead and check Easter trading hours in advance so you don’t run into unexpected closures.

With the holiday period also marking the start of the school holidays, the Easter long weekend offers the perfect opportunity to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, and take short getaways. In this guide, we list what’s open on Good Friday, from dining spots and cafés to bars, events, and attractions you can visit over the long weekend.

 

Cafés, Bars, and Restaurants Open During Good Friday and Easter Weekend

Discover cafés, bars, and restaurants open on Good Friday and throughout the Easter long weekend in Melbourne, perfect for brunches, casual drinks, or festive holiday meals. Note that holiday trading hours may change, so check the latest updates or announcements from each venue before visiting.

1.

Melba Restaurant

Melba Restaurant delivers a buffet feast that is both indulgent and thoughtfully curated. Offering a diverse range of international cuisines and its famous chocolate fountain, Melba Restaurant remains one of Melbourne’s top destinations for all-day dining. This Easter Sunday, a special Easter menu featuring seafood, sweets, as well as Japanese, Asian BBQ, and Indian dishes will be served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

 

 

Address: 1 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia

2.

Stalactites Restaurant

A long-standing Melbourne institution, Stalactites Restaurant is known for its authentic Greek cuisine, served in a casual, bustling atmosphere. Diners can enjoy hearty, Easter-friendly dishes such as souvlaki, traditional Greek soups, pita bread, seafood, and home-style dishes. Their lamb and chicken gyros are also made with certified halal meat, making it a welcoming option for diners with halal dietary preferences during the Easter long weekend.

 

 

Address: 177/183 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

3.

Johnny’s Green Room

Perched on the rooftop of the historic King & Godfree building in Carlton, Johnny’s Green Room offers a lively Tuscan-inspired terrace with sweeping views of the city skyline and a relaxed Italian-style menu. Some of their staple menu options include pizza rossa (red pizza) and pizza bianca (white pizza), perfect for a casual holiday bite with friends or family.

 

 

Address: Level 2/293-297 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Turn Travel into a Memorable Adventure

Enjoy a leisurely 40-minute ferry ride between Queenscliff on the Bellarine and Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula. With comfortable lounge areas, viewing decks, onboard cafés and bars, a children’s playground, and the chance to spot dolphins along the way, Searoad Ferries transforms a simple journey into a memorable coastal experience.

Book Your Ferry Trip

 

4.

Good Heavens Rooftop Bar

Good Heavens Rooftop Bar is a popular spot for laid-back afternoon drinks,  bustling Friday night outs, or casual get-togethers with friends. Indulge in comfort bites like hummus & chips, marlin crudo, and brisket-loaded fries from its sister restaurant, Fancy Hank’s. With the sweeping city skyline as your backdrop, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy share plates and drinks over the long weekend.

 

 

Address: Level 2/79 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

5.

Brunetti Classico

Home to one of Melbourne’s biggest arrays of cakes, biscuits, pastries, pizzas, and panini, Brunetti Classico is an Italian café and pasticceria that anyone with a sweet tooth will surely love. In addition to its regular array of pastries, the café offers special Easter delights like chocolate eggs and bunnies, making it a delightful stop for take-home Easter treats or quick coffee breaks. Make sure to check out each location’s opening hours for the Easter weekend before you go!

 

 

Locations: 

Carlton: 380 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Moonee Ponds: 17 Puckle St, Penny Ln, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039, Australia

Coburg: 107 Newlands Rd, Coburg North VIC 3058, Australia

Drummond St: Shop D/333 Drummond St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

6.

Maha Restaurant

Maha Restaurant is one of Melbourne’s most acclaimed fine-dining destinations. It prides itself on using high-quality seasonal produce to create its own unrestricted take on modern Middle Eastern cuisine. There are à la carte and set menu options showcasing standout dishes, such as the 12-hour roasted lamb shoulder. With its refined ambience and chef‑driven approach, Maha Restaurant offers a memorable setting for special occasions and long weekend meals.

 

 

Address: 21 Bond St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

7.

EziStreat

Can’t decide on just one cuisine? EziStreat brings together multicultural food vendors serving Vietnamese, Japanese, Singaporean, and Malaysian dishes in one space. This food lounge, beer garden, and community space is perfect for sampling a variety of flavours. Be sure to check ahead of time on which restaurants and shops are open on Easter weekend, as some vendors may operate on limited hours. 

 

 

Address: 275 Macaulay Rd, North Melbourne VIC 3051, Australia

8

RST Seafood Restaurant

When it comes to seafood, RST Seafood Restaurant is one of Melbourne’s most popular names, renowned for its fresh, high-quality ocean fare and creative menu. Guests can enjoy Easter-friendly dishes like Southern Rock Lobster, Jumbo King Prawns, Japanese scallops, and Grilled Sea Scallops. With its relaxed yet stylish setting, RST offers a memorable dining experience for families, friends, or anyone looking to celebrate the holidays with exceptional seafood.

 

 

Address: 5 Rae St, Fitzroy North VIC 3068, Australia

9

Convoy Moonee Ponds

Convoy Moonee Ponds is a neighbourhood café and brunch destination known for its exceptional coffee and thoughtfully crafted all‑day menu that celebrates fresh, local produce. With creative breakfast and lunch options like Turkish eggs, prawn rolls, chilli scrambled eggs, okonomiyaki waffles, and steak frites rolls, it’s an ideal place for relaxed catch-ups, long brunches, or a casual holiday meal. The bright indoor space and outdoor seating also make it a great spot to unwind over coffee and conversation in a laid‑back setting.

 

 

Address: 109 Pascoe Vale Rd, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039, Australia

Events in Melbourne on Good Friday and Easter Weekend

Melbourne comes alive with a variety of events during the Easter long weekend. From cultural events to outdoor celebrations, there’s plenty to enjoy on Good Friday in Melbourne and throughout the extended holiday.

1

Join in a Day of Fun and Entertainment for a Cause at the Kids Day Out

Good Friday Appeal returns this year for Melbourne’s favourite family fun day! Kids Day Out offers a day of live entertainment, carnival rides, interactive games, and creative workshops, all while raising funds for The Royal Children’s Hospital. Teddy Bear Hospital also returns with a team of amazing teddy doctors to attend to your cuddly companions.

When: 3 April 2026, from 10 AM to 5 PM

Where: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf VIC 3006, Australia

2

Indulge in a Seafood Buffet at The Savoy Hotel

Celebrate Good Friday in Melbourne with an elegant Seafood Buffet Dinner at The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins. Here, an Art Deco-inspired evening awaits, with ocean-fresh seafood, beautifully prepared hot dishes, and decadent desserts, all served in a refined space. This special dinner buffet is a popular Good Friday highlight in the city, so pre‑booking is essential to secure your spot for this luxurious culinary experience.

 

 

When: 3 April 2026, 6 PM to 9 PM

Where: 630 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

3

Pamper Your Palate with Collins Kitchen’s Easter and Good Friday Buffets

Collins Kitchen in the Grand Hyatt Melbourne transforms the Living Grand buffet into a special Easter-weekend feast. Experience the magic of Easter with a charming High Tea on Saturday and sumptuous Easter Buffets on Good Friday evening and Sunday afternoon. Stroll through a vibrant spread of the freshest seafood, sizzling grill favourites, gourmet delicacies, and an irresistible dessert showcase that promises to delight every palate. Pre-booking is highly recommended to secure your table.

 

 




Easter Buffet Dinner: 3 April 2026, from 6 PM to 10 PM

Easter High Tea: 4 April 2026, from 12:30 PM to 3 PM

Easter Buffet Lunch: 5 April 2026, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM

Where: 123 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

4

Experience Mind-Blowing Magic at Impossible Occurrences Magic Show

Prepare to be amazed at Impossible Occurrences, where master magician Luke Hocking performs astonishing illusions, tricks, and mind-reading acts. Hosted in an intimate theatre setting at the Melbourne Marriott Hotel, the performance combines jaw-dropping magic with theatrics and audience participation for an unforgettable night of entertainment. 

 

 

When: Every Friday until July 31 (7:30 PM and 9:30 PM)

Where: Melbourne Marriott Hotel, Corner Exhibition &, Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

 

Family-Friendly Things to Do on Good Friday and Easter Weekend

If you want to escape the traditional egg hunts and still keep the kids (and the whole family) entertained, Melbourne offers a variety of things to do on Good Friday and the Easter long weekend.

1

Explore the Aquatic Wonderland of SEA LIFE Melbourne

SEA LIFE Melbourne takes you on an interactive underwater adventure right in the heart of the city. The 12 marine zones offer plenty of opportunities for fascinating marine encounters, from the playful antics of king and gentoo penguins gliding through their icy Penguin Playground to the Fiddler rays and Port Jackson sharks in the Bay of Rays, mesmerising jellyfish in Ocean Invaders, and colourful tropical fish in Coral Atoll. The brand-new Rocky Shores zone also gives visitors an up-close look at the bustling ecosystems found along the southern shores.

 

 

Address: King St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

2

Be One with Nature at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Gardens

For those looking for a relaxing retreat, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Gardens offer 38 hectares of walking trails, serene lakes, and beautifully curated plant collections. The award-winning Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden is also open on public holidays. Here, kids can enjoy various engaging activities during Good Friday and Easter weekend, like splashing under water fountains (which operate only on days above 25°C), exploring wetlands filled with plants and insects, and climbing through imaginative spaces like the Bamboo Forest and Ruin Garden. Royal Botanic Gardens is also one of the most dog-friendly places in Melbourne, so fur parents can enjoy scenic strolls with their four-legged companions.

 

 

Address: Birdwood Avenue Melbourne, VIC, Australia

 

3

Step Inside the Illusion at ArtVo Melbourne

ArtVo Melbourne is Australia’s first immersive “trick-art” gallery, where visitors don’t just simply look at art; they become part of it. The gallery features over 80 larger-than-life 3D murals and optical illusions where you can pose with wild animals, scale rocky crevasses, and step into fantasy worlds. Explore the self-guided gallery at your own pace, and even if you don’t know how to strike the perfect pose, their staff can help you take the most Instagrammable photos. 

 

 

Where: Shop NCF 07, Level 1/26 Star Cres, Docklands VIC 3008, Australia

4

Plan a Day Trip from Melbourne (If You Want to Get Out of the City)

Easter long weekend is a perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city, and thankfully, Melbourne is surrounded by many destinations that make for unforgettable day trips or short staycations.

Best Places to Visit:

Queenscliff

Queenscliff’s historic seaside town is known for its Victorian architecture and maritime history. Visitors can explore heritage Queenscliff attractions that transport you into the 19th century, while a range of Queenscliff accommodation options make it easy to stay and enjoy the Easter long weekend.

Geelong

In contrast to Melbourne’s bustling cityscape, Geelong has a more laid-back vibe. It offers a mix of scenic Geelong attractions, family-friendly activities, and top-notch restaurants. 

Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula offers stunning coastal scenery and a variety of beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or coastal walks. Popular Mornington Peninsula day trip destinations include Sorrento, Portsea, Rosebud, and Cape Schanck.

Phillip Island

Phillip Island is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Victoria. Travellers can experience a variety of things to do in Phillip Island, including the famous Penguin Parade. A day trip from Melbourne is enough to see the major highlights of the island, making it an ideal Easter break destination.

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road offers one of Australia’s most scenic coastal drives. Embark on a long journey to explore things to do on the Great Ocean Road. A Great Ocean Road itinerary can be planned for a quick 1-day trip or extended over 2 to 3 days to fully explore beaches, lookouts, and local attractions along the route.

 

What to Expect this Easter Long Weekend in Melbourne

1.

Public Transport Schedules in Victoria During Easter Long Weekend

Public transport during the Easter long weekend typically operates on modified schedules, with V/Line trains running to a weekend timetable on Good Friday and Easter Monday. Daily myki fare caps apply ($8 for the full fare and $4 for concession/senior) on public holidays. Check announcements from Transport Victoria for Easter timetables for the trains, trams, coaches, and buses.

2.

Roads and Traffic

Expect heavier traffic on major roads and highways, particularly on the Thursday evening before Good Friday and the return journey on Easter Monday. Routes leading out of Melbourne toward coastal and regional holiday destinations can experience congestion, so travellers may want to plan trips outside peak times or allow extra travel time.

3.

Easter Weekend Trading Hours

Under Victorian law, only Good Friday is a restricted trading day. Only chemists, petrol shops, restaurants, cafés, takeaway outlets, and shops that meet small-business staffing limits are generally allowed to open. [1] 

Many supermarkets must remain closed on Good Friday, but normal trading typically resumes over the rest of the Easter weekend, including Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday (although individual store hours may vary). Remember that some major supermarkets’ trading hours may vary by state, so it’s best to check Easter trading hours of your nearest store online so you can do your weekend shopping early.

Make the Most of the Easter Long Weekend with Searoad Ferries

Easter long weekend is the perfect time to hit the road and discover the charming towns and coastal attractions that lie just beyond the city. Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas are full of sandy beaches, scenic lookouts, family-friendly adventures, and rich culinary scenes that make them worth the trip. And Searoad Ferries provides a convenient link between them via Sorrento and Queenscliff, allowing you to skip the long drive around the bay while enjoying stunning ocean views and a relaxing journey across Port Phillip Bay.

Purchase Your Ferry Tickets Here

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are pubs open on Good Friday?

Licensed pubs and bars can generally operate and serve alcohol according to the standard Good Friday trading hours window (from 12 noon to 1 AM the following morning, unless the licence says otherwise). Johnny’s Green Room and Good Heavens Rooftop Bar are two venues where you can enjoy drinks during the long weekend. Please note that opening hours can vary from venue to venue, so it’s best to check each pub’s latest announcements before heading out.

2. Are shops open on Good Friday?

Most major shops or supermarkets are closed on Good Friday due to restricted trading laws in Victoria, so it’s best to complete your grocery shopping before the public holiday. Check Easter shopping hours from your local supermarket ahead of time, as some smaller independent grocers and convenience stores may still operate.

3. Are bottle shops and alcohol sales open on Good Friday in Victoria?

Most bottle shops are closed on Good Friday under restricted trading rules. However, some restaurants or pubs with appropriate on‑premises liquor licences can serve alcohol in‑ houses during permitted trading hours.

Travellers rate us 4.5 out of 5 on Trip Advisor
Simple and enjoyable process
Really enjoyed taking the ferry. Not very busy, easy to get on and off with car and nice ship. Comfortable lounge and even had a sandwich. Really like the driving it saved us. Put us in great shape for starting the Great Ocean Road.
Enjoy the drive..Take The Ferry
Why would you bother driving through all that city traffic when you can just hop aboard the ferry to get from one side of the bay to the other?
Excellent way to cross the bay
We took the car over the bay. What an easy trip. No need to book. Boat is in excellent condition and crew were great. High recommended.