Melbourne is a city with one eye fixed on the past and another on the future. It’s the capital city of the state of Victoria and the country’s capital of style, where good food, coffee, fashion and art are revered.
Exploring the city center will immediately bring Melbourne’s fusion of new and old to light. Stroll down Collins Street to see Victorian-era churches, art deco hotels and daring post-modern structures. Close by is Bourke Street Mall, where trams trundle through a boulevard of heritage-listed buildings tastefully converted into modern shops.
At nearby Federation Square, this delightful collision of the past and present continues. Angular modern buildings stand in futuristic contrast to neighboring Flinders Street Station, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the timeless elegance of the Yarra River. While at “Fed Square,” visit the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) to learn about the country’s history of film and television, and experiment with the latest digital technology.
Cross the river and explore Southbank’s restaurants and bars, the National Gallery of Victoria and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Then take the elevator to Skydeck 88 in the Eureka Tower for breathtaking views of the park-filled city.
Once you’ve explored the city center, jump aboard one of Melbourne’s iconic trams and explore the suburbs. Not far from downtown is Carlton, where you’ll find the Melbourne Museum, and the espresso bars and restaurants of “Little Italy” on Lygon Street.
Pack your towel and swimming costume and head to the seaside suburb of St. Kilda. After a dip in Port Phillip Bay, browse the suburb’s famous cake shops and vintage stores before heading to the bright lights and thrill rides of Luna Park. Stay overnight in one of St. Kilda’s boutique hotels then rise early for a sunrise walk along the coastline to the brightly colored “bathing boxes” of Brighton Beach. Have your photo taken by these heritage-listed structures, a perfect memento of this effortlessly stylish and most liveable of cities.
Melbourne
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
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.
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.
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 you can see some sights in the area like Fitzroy Street and Palais Theatre.
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Reviewed on May 10, 2024
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Reviewed on May 7, 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 acclaimed theater 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
Explore this huge open-air market to enjoy Melbourne’s freshest produce and best bargain shopping.
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.
Marvel Stadium
Catch an event at Marvel Stadium during your trip to Melbourne. Discover the top-notch restaurants and acclaimed art scene in this vibrant area.
Things to do
Melbourne: Puffing Billy & Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour
Melbourne: Yarra Wine, Beer/Gin & Chocolate Tour with Lunch
Melbourne: Phillip Island Tour & Penguin Parade
Grampians & Halls Gap
Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour
From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Day Tour
Reviews of Melbourne
5/5 - Excellent
Despite the closure of almost every attraction, we enjoyed long walks in the Docklands, along the Yarra River, in the many and beautiful parks, through the CBD and neighborhoods.
5/5 - Excellent
Some of the best Botanical Gardens and river walks in the country
3/5 - Okay
There wasn't much to do if you didn't go to Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island. Food and price were good at Crown Casino's restaurants.
5/5 - Excellent
A lovely city. I definitely will visit again if I have a chance.
5/5 - Excellent
Vibrant city with lots to do and great variety of food.
3/5 - Okay
Melbourne reminds me of a smaller New York City, very busy, not very clean but has lots of walking and public transport.
Other places like Melbourne
- Crown Casino
- Melbourne Central
- Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Queen Victoria Market
- Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Marvel Stadium
- Rod Laver Arena
- University of Melbourne
- Bourke Street Mall
- AAMI Park
- Melbourne Zoo
- Chadstone Shopping Mall
- Monash University
- SEA LIFE Melbourne
- Princess Theatre
- Melbourne Museum
- St Kilda Beach
- Brighton Beach
- Melbourne Arts Centre
- Dandenong Ranges National Park
- Deakin University
- Fed Square
- Royal Melbourne Showgrounds