Melbourne

Explore the myriad of possibilities in the cultural capital of the world Melbourne. Get off the main streets and experience the ‘true Melbourne’ where seemingly dead end laneways lead to stylish bars, small boutiques and classy restaurants. Enjoy the great quality and style of the city’s food and wine, dance the night away or simply relax at Federation Square and take in the sights, people and atmosphere. Like the food, shopping in Melbourne tailors to all budgets, styles and needs whether it is the funky street style gear of Brunswick Street or the exclusive shops of Chapel Street. Check out the range of bars, cafes and bistros in Southbank and taste delicious cuisines from all over the world in Carlton, Richmond and Fitzroy. Try the Aboriginal Heritage Walk in the Royal Botanic Gardens or be part of an 80,000-person crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.


Shop around this fashion Mecca

The depth of Melbourne’s fashion outlets should not be underestimated. Whether it is high-end fashion on Chapel Street or the hip boutiques on Brunswick Street, you won’t be disappointed. The Melbourne General Post Office covers a whole block, offering a massive range of designer labels and Bridge Road in Richmond covers everything from cheap factory outlets to classy garments and stylish accessories.


Dance and party the night away

Enjoy the beer gardens and live music in St Kilda or relax in the ambient jazz bars in the city. Take a stroll down Little Collins Street and find everything from little wine bars to avant guard experimental nights. Dance the night away in clubs and bars on Brunswick Street or check out the very stylish dance and music scene on Chapel Street. Detour off the city’s main street to find a plethora of hidden late night bars and all nightclubs.


Taste the world-class cuisine

Melbourne is renowned for having a world famous café culture and Melbournian’s are serious about their coffee. Wander down the abundance of European laneways and take your pick. Try a short black or a latte and be prepared for your taste spuds to be dazzled. If coffee’s not your thing, try a tea in a nineteenth-century hotel or make your way to the hustle and bustle of the Queen Victoria’s Market on a Saturday and try a range of fresh fruits, vegetables and seafood. Any preferences for fine cuisine, well make a choice. The city is a melting pot of cultures that is exquisitely expressed in its food, from Italian cuisine in Carlton, Spanish tapas in Fitzroy, generous Vietnamese food from Richmond and hundreds of little restaurants in Chinatown.


Experience the cultural capital

Don’t miss a performance by the Australian Ballet, which is based here in Melbourne. Or be inspired by a musical at the Princess Theatre. Have a look at the best collection of international art in the southern hemisphere at the National Gallery of Victoria. Or check out the iconic Federation Square’s Moving Image. Arouse your creative side at the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art in Southbank and learn more about the indigenous people of Melbourne through their contemporary and dreamtime art.


Be part of the sporting action

Be part of the action at an Australian Rules Football game along with another 80,000 people cheering at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from April to September. Watch the famous boxing day test or one day internationals over the summer. Barrack for you famous tennis stars at the Australian Tennis Open or get ready for some serious noise and burning rubber as the Grand Prix moves to Albert Park in March. And don’t miss the excitement of the world’s richest horse race, the Melbourne Cup on the first Tuesday in November.