Top Melbourne Experiences

Melbourne for the family

As big cities go, Melbourne is a brilliant choice for a family holiday; it's packed with things to see and do. We recommend basing yourself somewhere with space to spread out; a proper ‘home-from-home' for you and your brood. Cooking facilities are a plus, as eating out every night might not suit you, your kids, or your budget. So, an apartment is ideal, and there are plenty on offer here, plus hotels, motels and suites catering for families. Choose a location that has interest for your children; maybe near Melbourne's fantastic zoo or one of the Port Phillip beaches, or – if you're the parent of fashion-conscious teenagers – in a trendy but not entirely urban area like South Yarra. Once the accommodation is sorted, get ready have family fun: a ride on the free Circle Tram is a must, Luna Park is essential for laughs, Science Works and the museums for education mixed with entertainment. And, if time permits, a trip to see the Fairy Penguins or a ride on Puffing Billy are two things your family will never forget.

Melbourne was made for romance

Magnificent Melbourne, with its restaurants, parks and very European atmosphere is a destination made for romance. Whether your idea of a perfect setting is somewhere chic and sophisticated or quaint and charmingly historic, you'll find the ideal place to stay, because this city specialises in unique hotels and apartments. Finding somewhere for that candlelit dinner is easy too, as Melbourne has one of the world's best selections of ethnic and classical eateries. Be sure to stroll through Fitzroy Gardens, along Southbank and across the Botanical Gardens. Explore vibrant South Melbourne and Albert Park together, taking time out to sip coffee and shop for fashion. Enjoy an evening tram ride, go Italian on Lygon Street, people-watch in South Yarra, and and don't miss a night at a city theatre. Melbourne for couples: it's all there, ready and waiting.

Shop without stopping

Anyone who's ever been to Melbourne will tell you the same thing: this is Australia's top shopping centre. The choice is simply enormous. So, where do you start? It all depends what you're looking for. There are shopping tours available, but if you want to go it alone, Chapel Street is a great opener to any a serious fashion search; and of course, the CBD is crammed with stores and boutiques; try QV and the CPO or just head out and hunt. South Melbourne and Albert Park are good for fashion too; Clarendon Street's the place to start. For something more bohemian, head to Fitzroy; for exclusive gifts, fashion and art you can't beat Southbank, while Flinders Lane is the place to find superb contemporary local arts and crafts. In fact, pretty much every part of this city has somewhere interesting to browse and shop: be sure to pack a spare bag when you visit.

Melbourne, the place to party

With its huge selection of clubs, bars and pubs and live music venues, this city knows how to party. In the CBD, try Swanston Street or head to Fitzroy or Collingwood; visit the Crown Casino for a selection of bars, restaurants, entertainment and a chance to break the bank. If jazz is your thing, try Manchester Lane, and to dance the night away, head out to Prahan/South Yarra. But let's face it: it's almost impossible to be specific on the topic of Melbourne's nightlife and party scene, because you'll find it happening in venues that range from exclusive to informal right across town.

Taking a short break?

A few days in multi-cultural Melbourne can change your life. This is a brilliant place to head for a short break: recharge your batteries with some of Australia's best food, fashion and wines, and enjoy an atmosphere that's more like the heart of Europe than the south of Oz. It's just a short flight from home; and in no time at all you'll be absorbed into this city's unique way of life: strolling by the Yarra, browsing the boutiques, admiring the art and relaxing in one of the many fine parks. The transport system is excellent, allowing you to see plenty in a short amount of time. And, for a flying visit, you'll probably prefer to stay in the inner city, where you'll find plenty of hotels, motels and apartments offering great deals. Melbourne's unique character could be just the change you need – and, as they say, a change is as good as a rest. Try it for that special weekend away, those romantic few days together or time out for fun and fashion.

Melbourne's food and wine

Home to a diverse cultural heritage, Melbourne is a diner's delight. From the finest European cuisine to down-to-earth ethnic, it's a place to experiment and experience. Try Racecourse Road for African; Lygon Street and other parts of Carlton for Italian; Little Bourke Street for Chinese; Lonsdale Street for Greek; Carlisle Street in Balaclava for Jewish; Sydney Road in Brunswick for Middle Eastern. But don't stop there: you'll find Nepalese, Thai, Indian, Argentine, Spanish, Polish, French and much, much more…plus, of course, Australian cuisine at its best. Finally, there are five great viticulture regions within easy reach (Yarra Valley, Macedon, Mornington Peninsula, Sunbury and Geelong), so don't forget to take a wine tour. You'll find excellent dining in these areas too.