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
Visit Melbourne
Melbourne Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Melbourne
Melbourne Central Business District
Discover a blend of contemporary and Victorian architecture, vibrant street art, and literary culture in this bustling city center. Explore famed alleyways, visit the State Library, and enjoy easy access to public transport hubs.
Southbank
High-rise development dominates this inner-city suburb, featuring the Southbank Promenade and Southgate Restaurant and Shopping Precinct. Enjoy the art and craft market on Sundays, and explore the area via tram lines or the Capital City Bicycle Trail.
Docklands
Striking contemporary architecture meets heritage buildings in this area, where visitors can shop at The District Docklands, ride the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, and explore public art. Diverse dining options, sports courts, and various transport options make it a convenient choice.
Sorrento
Coastal town Sorrento offers charter fishing boats from its pier, a summer ferry service to Queenscliff, and the historic Sorrento Park with a playground and BBQ facilities. Explore limestone buildings like the heritage-listed Sorrento Post Office.
Melbourne Airport
Located within the City of Hume, Melbourne Airport suburb is home to the Tullamarine Country Club and The Hangar, a training base for Essendon Football Club. Easily accessible by multiple bus routes and the upcoming Melbourne Airport rail link.
Rye
Beaches, spas, and hot springs highlight some of the noteworthy features of Rye. Make a stop by Rye Beach or The Dunes Golf Links while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Reviewed on Oct 18, 2024
Reviewed on Oct 15, 2024
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Reviewed on Oct 17, 2024
Reviewed on Oct 17, 2024
Reviewed on Oct 21, 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.
Marvel Stadium
Catch an event at Marvel Stadium during your trip to 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 relaxing area.
Things to do
Melbourne: Puffing Billy & Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour
From Melbourne: Penguin Parade, Koalas & Kangaroos
Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour
Ultimate Skydeck
Full-Day Phillip Island Tour with Kangaroo, Koala and Penguin Parade
Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise
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
- Marvel Stadium
- Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Queen Victoria Market
- Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Rod Laver Arena
- University of Melbourne
- Bourke Street Mall
- AAMI Park
- Monash University
- Chadstone Shopping Mall
- SEA LIFE Melbourne
- Princess Theatre
- Melbourne Arts Centre
- St Kilda Beach
- Melbourne Zoo
- Melbourne Museum
- DFO South Wharf
- Royal Melbourne Showgrounds
- Brighton Beach
- Fed Square
- Deakin University