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
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.
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
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.
Rye
Beaches, spas and hot springs are just a few things travellers enjoy about Rye. Check out Rye Beach or Mornington Peninsula National Park while you're exploring the area.
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2024
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Reviewed on 16 Apr 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 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.
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 fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
Queen Victoria Market
Explore this huge open-air market to enjoy Melbourne’s freshest produce and best bargain shopping.
Things to do
Melbourne: Puffing Billy & Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour
Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wines, Beer/Gin & Choc Tour & Lunch
Grampians & Halls Gap
Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour
Peninsula Hot Springs: Fire, Ice, and Bathe
From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Day Tour
Reviews of Melbourne
4/5 - Good
Myki a bit confusing. Pricing not great for this. You pay the same price for one stop or multiple stops! It's free within the cbd itself though. Try Lune croissanterie 161 Collins Street!!
5/5 - Excellent
Melbourne is a beautiful city. There are lots of parks, great boat ride through the city to willimastown and the trams are very convenient. The new skyscrapers surprised me as the colours change as the sun strikes them from different angles.
5/5 - Excellent
A lively city dotted with marvelous coffee shops and cafe. A must visit for anyone who is looking for a vibrant city with a cool and laid-back atmosphere.
4/5 - Good
Cool city lots of options and multicultural.
4/5 - Good
It's not in the same League as Sydney but well worth a couple of days visit especially to take the ferry down the River Yara to Williamstown.
5/5 - Excellent
We are a group of six traveling g from Bangkok and we had an amazing time in Melbourne during Australian Open. Love the people from Melbourne. They are very friendly and lovely people. Hope to come back again next year! Thank you ❤️