Map of Ballarat, Australia

🎨 What to do in Ballarat

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Ballarat with a myriad of activities that cater to every interest. From exploring historic sites to indulging in creative pursuits, there's no shortage of things to do in this charming city.

• Best Budget Activity in Ballarat:

  Ballarat Botanical Gardens: Spend a leisurely day amidst beautiful blooms, serene lakes, and lush greenery in the heart of the city.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Ballarat:

  Sovereign Hill: Step back in time and experience the magic of the Gold Rush era with interactive exhibits, gold panning, and costumed interpreters.

• Best Luxury Activity in Ballarat:

  Balloon Sunrise Hot Air Ballooning: Soar high above the picturesque landscapes of Ballarat at sunrise for a truly unforgettable experience.

🍽️ Where to eat in Ballarat

Ballarat is a culinary paradise, boasting a diverse range of dining options that cater to every palate. From hearty pub fare to gourmet delicacies, there's something for everyone in this food lover's haven.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Ballarat:

  The Forge Pizzeria•$:

  Cuisine specialty: Wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Ballarat:

  Mitchell Harris Wine Bar•$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Tapas-style dishes paired with local wines

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Ballarat:

  Underbar•$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Modern Australian cuisine with a focus on seasonality

• Best Budget Bar in Ballarat:

  The Mallow Hotel•$:

  Craft beers and pub snacks

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Ballarat:

  The Lost Ones Basement Bar•$$:

  Creative cocktails and charcuterie boards

• Best Luxury Bar in Ballarat:

  The Provincial Hotel•$$$:

  Premium wines and gourmet bar bites

🏰 What to see in Ballarat

Ballarat is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks that showcase its rich heritage and cultural significance. From historic sites to natural wonders, the city offers an array of must-visit attractions for visitors of all ages.

• Sovereign Hill

  Step back in time to the 1850s Gold Rush era with this award-winning outdoor museum featuring period buildings, costumed characters, and interactive experiences.

• Ballarat Wildlife Park

  Get up close and personal with iconic Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles, in a natural bush setting.

• Lake Wendouree

  Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride around this picturesque lake, home to abundant birdlife, lush gardens, and recreational facilities.

• Ballarat Botanical Gardens

  Explore over 40 hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens, historic statues, and a colorful array of seasonal flowers and plants.

• Art Gallery of Ballarat

  Delve into Australia's oldest regional art gallery showcasing a diverse collection of Australian art, from traditional to contemporary works, in an elegant heritage building.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Ballarat

Explore the vibrant shopping scene of Ballarat, where you can discover a mix of trendy boutiques, charming markets, and specialty stores showcasing local craftsmanship and unique finds.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Ballarat:

  Bridge Mall Farmers Market: Browse through a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts at this bustling market offering affordable shopping options.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Ballarat:

  Central Square Shopping Centre: Shop at a diverse range of stores, including fashion boutiques, homeware outlets, and specialty shops, all conveniently located under one roof.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Ballarat:

  The Artisan Hub: Indulge in luxury shopping at this boutique store that features handcrafted jewelry, designer homewares, and exclusive artworks from local artisans.

🚌 Getting Around Ballarat

• Public Transport

  Ballarat offers a convenient public transportation system that includes buses and trains. The local bus service is operated by Ballarat Transit, with routes connecting various parts of the city. Buses generally run from early morning until late evening, with regular schedules throughout the week. The fare for a single trip is affordable, and discounted tickets for seniors and students are available. The train service, operated by V/Line, connects Ballarat to Melbourne and other regional areas.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Ballarat Railway Station serves as the primary transportation hub for train services in the city. Located in the heart of Ballarat, the station provides easy access to the city center and surrounding areas. For bus services, the Ballarat Bus Interchange is a key hub where several bus routes converge, offering seamless connections to different parts of the city.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: Visitors to Ballarat can opt for car rental services from providers like Hertz, Budget, and Avis. Prices typically start from $40 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: Exploring Ballarat on two wheels is a popular option, with bicycle rental services available at places like Bike Ballarat. Rental rates for bicycles start at $15 per day, with options for hourly rentals as well.