A good question.
A local answer.

For the CBD and inner neighbourhoods, trams, trains, buses and walking cover most visitor plans. Group nearby sights on the same day so you spend less time changing services.

Keep the afternoon easy: a central walk, riverfront or garden outing works without depending on several attractions being open. Leave room for travel fatigue and Melbourne's changeable weather.

For an airport or regional journey, check the operator and ticket separately. A local tram payment method does not automatically cover every coach or regional service.

Start with the current AFL fixture and pick a Melbourne game that fits your dates. Confirm whether it is at the MCG or Marvel Stadium; the venue changes both your transport plan and your seating choices.

An overnight trip gives you room for beach towns, walks and unplanned stops. If you drive, allow for winding roads and do not treat the Twelve Apostles as a quick return trip from the CBD.

Plan one main activity per day and keep a nearby indoor option in reserve. Melbourne Museum, Scienceworks and the zoo can each fill a family outing; check current opening times and ticket requirements before you go.

If an AFL match is a priority, check which ground hosts your game before choosing accommodation. A central hotel with a straightforward tram or train connection is usually more flexible than choosing solely by distance to one stadium.

Start with the CBD on foot: Federation Square, the river, the State Library and a few laneways fit naturally into one day. Pick one museum or gallery rather than trying to see everything, then leave your evening open for dinner near where you finish.