Melbourne
Ask anyone to name their favourite city in Australia, and it’s likely that
they’ll choose from the two largest: Sydney and Melbourne. There’s a friendly
rivalry between the two, and while Sydney might be the biggest, Victoria’s state
capital has plenty to offer travellers too.
For one thing, it’s got one of the most exciting arts and culture scenes in
Australia. In many ways, it’s also the country’s cultural capital, boasting
institutions such as the National Gallery of Victoria, the Melbourne Symphony
Orchestra, and sporting events like the Australian Open tennis tournament.
And that’s without mentioning the Australian Football League (AFL) team,
Melbourne FC. The fans are some of the most passionate you’ll ever cheer with,
so be sure to try and catch a game.
Melbourne is home to a bustling street art scene, a vibrant community of
filmmakers (and film lovers), plus a strong economy that keeps the money flowing
and the restaurants and nightlife venues full of happy patrons. The city’s chefs
are constantly experimenting; Melbourne's location between East and West, Old
World and New World allows them the flexibility to imagine dishes you won't find
elsewhere. Dining in Melbourne can be as simple or as complex as you want it to
be, and that's all part of the fun. Whether you're willing to try anything on
your plate or happy to stick to the basics, there’s a restaurant or five for
you.
There’s a thriving cafe culture too – in fact, the city is home to some of the
best cafes in the city. Ask the locals – they’ll definitely have strong opinions
about where to go for your morning cup. In the afternoon, head for the coast;
Melbourne has some brilliant beaches, from rugged Bushrangers Bay to
family-friendly Mothers Beach.
The hotel options in Melbourne are as endless as the views in the Aussie
outback. The inner city has recently experienced a revitalisation as hotels
invade the central business district that's also experiencing a population boom.
If you're after something completely different, check out Neds Gully Campground
for a true Outback experience.
All things considered, the city has enough luxury hotels, exciting attractions
and hidden gems to keep the most enthusiastic visitors entertained. And it’s not
just tourists who love Melbourne – in fact, you might find that a short stay
turns into something much longer. It routinely ranks among the most liveable
cities in the world; no wonder over four million people currently call it home.
Melbourne Airport (IATA: MEL, ICAO: YMML), also known as Tullamarine
Airport, is the primary airport serving the city of Melbourne, and the second
busiest airport in Australia.
Things to do in Melbourne
■ Visit the Lightning Ridge Opal Mines
■ Take a drive to the 12 Apostles
■ Stroll around the Royal Botanic Gardens
■ See the views from the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel
■ Walk around Federation Square
Eat in Melbourne
■ Flower Drum Restaurant (Cantonese)
■ Vue de Monde (European)
■ The Town Mouse (International)
■ Smith + Daughter (Latin American fusion/Vegan)
■ Chin Chin Restaurant (Asian fusion)
■ Brae (International)
Stay in Melbourne
■ Neds Gully Campground, Cathedral Range State Park
■ The Cullen
■ The Prince Hotel
■ The Langham Melbourne
■ The Hotel Windsor
■ Alto Hotel
folder_open Outbound Travel