Melbourne
at a glance
Melbourne has arguably been labelled "cuisine capital"; the World's Most Liveable City; Australia’s most European city and has been named a UNESCO City of Literature.
Melbourne is the financial and cultural centre of Australia and is known for its performing arts, weather, Victorian architecture, café culture and film industry.
The best way to reach the city from the airport is by Skybus, a 20 minute trip which brings you to Southern Cross Station. There is also a public bus, shuttle buses and taxis.
Once in the city there is an extensive network of public transport. The myki ticket system for trains and buses is convenient and economical especially if you buy special ticket packages which are available from the Melbourne Visitor Centre in Federation Square. The city centre is easy to navigate and you can use the tourist shuttle or the free City Circle Tram which stops by most central attractions
You'll be spoilt for choice with food in Melbourne thanks to the diverse cultures which have made the city their home. You can find everything from Chinese to Moroccan and everything in between as well as restaurants specialising in Australian cuisine and fusion. To wash down the delicious food Melbourne is crazy about coffee and you can enjoy a variety of brews in thousands of coffee shops.
Melbourne sightseeing
Here’s a few ideas and useful links if you have some extra time to discover hidden Melbourne gems or opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture.
National Gallery of Victoria – Visit the two branches of this vast and prestigious museum for Australian and international art.
Federation Square – The place to hang out, enjoy public events and be at the heart of the city while surrounded by brilliant architecture and top attractions.
Queen Victoria Market – Historic market with fresh produce, eateries and every other kind of merchandise you can imagine.
Eureka Tower – For views across the city from the Observation Tower.
Old Melbourne Gaol – Enjoy re-enacting the scary past of this formidable building.
Crown Casino Complex – A gigantic casino, entertainment and retail site for those rainy days.
Australian Centre for the Moving Image – Lots of fun and games in this innovative venue where you can learn about the film industry, see films and create your own movies.
Polly Woodside – Visit this historic boat docked off the Melbourne coast.
Old Treasury Building – This historic building is the site of the permanent exhibitions focused on the city of Melbourne.
The Library at The Dock – Located on the waterfront where Bourke Street meets Collins Street, the next generation library and community centre is set to become the centrepiece of Victoria Harbour’s new civic heart.
Hidden Shops of Melbourne Tour
