The capital of the state of Victoria is one of Australia’s most stylish and sophisticated cities, combining old-world colonial charm with modern-day convenience. Visitors will be quickly seduced by its food and its fashions, its art and its architecture, its culture and its coffee.
The city centre is packed with heritage-listed buildings, many of them dating back to Victorian times. The historic churches and sumptuous art deco hotels, the elegant arcades of Bourke Street Mall and Flinders Street Station, the oldest train station in Australia, sit comfortably alongside the futuristic glass-and-steel exhibition spaces around Federation Square and the iconic Eureka Tower, which offers panoramic views across the city from the observation deck on the 88th floor.
There’s no shortage of cultural contrasts either, from state-of-the-art digital technology at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image and contemporary painting at the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art, to international and indigenous masterpieces at the National Gallery of Victoria and local treasures at the Melbourne Museum. The latter is even home to one of Australia’s great sporting icons, the legendary racehorse Phar Lap.
Take a breather in one of the city parks, wander around the Royal Botanic Gardens, or head off for a dip in the cooling waters of Port Phillip Bay at St. Kilda or Brighton Beach. Jump on and off Melbourne’s famous trams to explore the four corners of the city, maybe alighting at the popular beach-front Luna Park to ride the historic rollercoaster, or visit bustling, atmospheric Queen Victoria Market to pick up some delicious locally sourced produce.
Dining out is a breeze in cosmopolitan Melbourne, where you can easily sample a different cuisine every night. Head for Lygon Street, Australia’s “Little Italy”, for the best pasta and pizza outside the old country, enjoy the bohemian atmosphere of Flinders Lane in the heart of the city’s cultural quarter, or go upmarket in stylish Collins Street, home of the famous art deco Hopetoun Tearooms.
Melbourne is sometimes called the gateway to Australia and this friendly, sophisticated and culturally diverse city certainly gives visitors a perfect introduction to the country’s rich heritage, stunning natural beauty and infectious zest for life.
Melbourne
Where to stay in Melbourne
Melbourne Central Business District
Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Melbourne Central Business District. Check out top attractions like Melbourne Central and Collins Street, and jump on the metro at Melbourne Central Station or Flagstaff Station to see more of the city.
Southbank
Visitors to Southbank rave about its stunning river views, first-class casinos, and popular shops. You might also want to make some time to see Crown Casino or Melbourne Skydeck while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Docklands
Travelers come to Docklands for its waterfront views, and you can see top attractions like Marvel Stadium and Collins Street while you're in town.
Sorrento
Sorrento is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Sorrento Front Beach and Searoad Ferry Terminal.
Melbourne Airport
Travelers come to Melbourne Airport for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like URBNSURF Sports Park and Woodlands Historic Park while you're in town.
St Kilda
St Kilda is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like Fitzroy Street and Palais Theatre.
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Reviewed on Apr 26, 2024
Popular places to visit
Crown Casino
Why not roll the dice by visiting Crown Casino where you can enjoy the games and entertainment of this top casino in Melbourne? Experience the acclaimed art scene and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
Melbourne Central
You can enjoy some retail therapy when you visit Melbourne Central, a favorite shopping spot in Melbourne. Discover the top-notch restaurants and entertainment choices in this vibrant area.
Melbourne Cricket Ground
Australia’s premier stadium is a symbol of Melbourne’s sporting heritage, drawing thousands of fans to cricket, football, rugby and soccer matches and events.
Marvel Stadium
Catch an event at Marvel Stadium during your trip to Melbourne. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
Queen Victoria Market
Soak up the atmosphere and bag yourself a bargain at this popular Melbourne institution.
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
During your trip, find out what's happening at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, a top convention center in Melbourne. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.
Things to do
Melbourne: Puffing Billy & Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour
Melbourne: Yarra Wine, Beer/Gin & Chocolate Tour with Lunch
Grampians & Halls Gap
Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour
From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Day Tour
Melbourne Laneways Tour
Reviews of Melbourne
5/5 - Excellent
great city
4/5 - Good
Be ready for the cold weather