The best sunset and sunrise spots in Melbourne

This inner-city oasis never disappoints when it comes to scoping out the sunrise. Wear comfy shoes and walk the Tan along the Yarra River back from the Swan Street bridge (keep a look out for the friendly family of swans who call the bridge home).

The Kokoda Track Memorial Walk is a place of pilgrimage for those determined to prove (or improve) their fitness. It's a 2.8-kilometre trek to the One Tree Hill lookout point, so arrive early and set a good pace.

Thousands attend the Shrine's ANZAC and Remembrance Day ceremonies, but on other days it's eerily quiet. Sitting on the steps as the sun rises, with the Eternal Flame for company, is a truly poignant experience.

For those special occasion sunrises, there's nothing that will come close to the view from a hot air balloon gently floating 3,000 feet above Melbourne. We should know: we tried it.

It might not be Melbourne buuuuuuut, we can't not include the Twelve Apostles. You'll have to get up early to watch the sunrise here, but it's well worth the effort. Seeing the morning's first rays bounce off the iconic rugged stacks of limestone is breathtaking (the Apostles change colour from grey to sandy yellow as day breaks). Plus, once the sunrise is over you've got the whole day to go exploring along the Great Ocean Road.

Nestled in South Wharf, The Boatbuilder's Yard doesn't suffer from a lack of passing foot traffic. Watching the sunset from the expansive timber decks along the Yarra (with a bevvy in hand) offers instant wow factor.

An oldie but a goodie. Perch yourself on the weathered footbridge, dangle your feet into Port Phillip Bay, cast out as the sun sets and stick around to catch the post-dusk little penguin parade.

Where better to watch the sun set than from the city's highest viewing platform? Melbourne Skydeck features floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing a 360-degree view from 88 floors above street level.

Melbourne's first public garden was established in the 1860s, and once had views to Port Phillip Bay. These days, the former pioneer burial site is a lovely spot to chill and share the sunset with the possums.

From its prime position under the Evan Walker pedestrian footbridge that runs from Flinders Street Station to Southbank, Ponyfish Island is perfect for watching the Yarra after a long day with a cocktail in hand. The bar knows it's in a good spot, and so does every person in Melbourne – arrive early to secure your seat, then sit back, relax and take in the view.

Complete with AstroTurf, candy-striped deckchairs, an outdoor cinema and a well-stocked bar, this is a great place to feel like you're in the middle of the action as you watch the sun set over the skyscrapers.

Level 35 of the Sofitel is home to sophisticated wine bar Atrium... but between you and us, the toilets feature the same stunning views of the city for free (just remember to wash your hands afterwards).