Is a Melbourne city visit realistic on a twelve-hour international layover?

Set a non-negotiable departure time for the airport and keep a direct-transfer backup. Delays on the inbound flight should shrink the outing, not the airport buffer.

If the gap remains comfortable, choose a compact CBD walk with one meal rather than several distant attractions. Check the opening day of any market you hope to visit.

Confirm entry requirements, baggage arrangements and the airline's return check-in deadline first. Count usable city time only after border formalities and both airport transfers.