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 Travel Guide
Melbourne Travel Guide Video
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
Are you interested in stunning river views, first-class casinos and popular shops? A visit to Southbank might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Crown Casino and Melbourne Skydeck.
Docklands
Travellers come to Docklands for its waterfront views, and you can see top attractions like Marvel Stadium and Collins Street while you're in town.
Melbourne Airport
Melbourne Airport is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to URBNSURF Sports Park or Woodlands Historic Park.
Sorrento
Sorrento is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Sorrento Front Beach and Searoad Ferry Terminal.
St Kilda
St Kilda is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Fitzroy Street and Palais Theatre, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Melbourne.
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Reviewed on 6 May 2024
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Reviewed on 5 May 2024
Reviewed on 8 May 2024
Reviewed on 7 May 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 galleries and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
Melbourne Central
You can enjoy some retail therapy with a trip to Melbourne Central, a favourite shopping spot in Melbourne. Discover the top-notch restaurants and acclaimed theatre scene 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.
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 in Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, a top convention centre in Melbourne. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.
Marvel Stadium
Catch an event at Marvel Stadium during your trip to Melbourne. Discover the top-notch restaurants and acclaimed art galleries in this vibrant area.
Activities
Melbourne: Yarra Wine, Beer/Gin & Chocolate Tour with Lunch
Grampians & Halls Gap
Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour
Reviews of Melbourne
5/5 - Excellent
Love the city shopping everyday
5/5 - Excellent
I love Melbourne, so diverse
4/5 - Good
Melbournians are remaining patient and respectful of distancing during the virus.
4/5 - Good
Love Melbourne
4/5 - Good
Nice and quiet for me during the coronavirus lockdown. Collins Street was surprisingly safe. Melbourne has always been a livable City.
4/5 - Good
it would be an alright city if you got rid of Queen Victoria in the first place years ago.
Other places like Melbourne
- Crown Casino
- Melbourne Central
- Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Queen Victoria Market
- Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Marvel Stadium
- Collins Street
- Rod Laver Arena
- University of Melbourne
- Bourke Street Mall
- Aami Park
- Melbourne Zoo
- Chadstone Shopping Mall
- Monash University
- SEA LIFE Melbourne
- Princess Theatre
- Royal Botanic Gardens
- Melbourne Museum
- Flemington Racecourse
- St Kilda Beach
- Peninsula Hot Springs
- Royal Melbourne Hospital
- St Kilda Road
- Brighton Beach
- Melbourne Arts Centre
- Mount Donna Buang
- Dandenong Ranges National Park
- Puffing Billy Steam Train
- Regent Theatre
- Deakin University
- Fed Square
- Royal Melbourne Showgrounds