Melbourne Travel Guide

Australia's second-largest city and the capital of Victoria, Melbourne is often described as the country's most European city, with trams gliding past historic buildings, leafy parks and open-air cafés. Its centre follows a clear grid layout, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot, while the free burgundy City Circle Tram provides a convenient way to tour the sights and gain an introduction to the inner city. Parks such as the Royal Botanic Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and Carlton Gardens offer peaceful green spaces for rest and relaxation.

Melbourne is also known for its high quality of living and strong reputation as Australia's cultural capital, celebrated for its performing arts, dynamic dining scene and love of sport. Major international events include the Melbourne Cup, the Australian Open Tennis Championships and the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix.

Beyond the city, visitors can discover Victoria's natural beauty on easy day trips. The Macedon Ranges, home to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, is renowned for its mineral spas, while the Great Ocean Road and the Great Southern Touring Route showcase stunning coastal and scenic landscapes.

Best time to visit Melbourne

Peak travel periods in Melbourne are driven more by major events than by the weather, so it's wise to check what's on and book accommodation well in advance. The city is especially busy in late October and early November for the Spring Racing Carnival, in late January for the Australian Open Tennis Championships, and in early March for the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. Weather-wise, winter (June to August) tends to be cool, grey and damp, while autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) offer the most pleasant conditions for sightseeing.

What to see in Melbourne

-Visit Cook's Cottage, a remarkable little piece of 18th-century England in Melbourne.

-Explore the creepy Old Melbourne Gaol, the oldest surviving prison in Victoria.

-Enjoy the galleries, museums, shops, and restaurants of Federation Square.

-Wander through the fascinating exhibitions of Melbourne Museum.

What to do in Melbourne

-Experience the thrill of being high above the city at Eureka Tower.

-Catch a game at the celebrated Melbourne Cricket Ground.

-Meet Australia's unique animals and many other exotic creatures at Melbourne Zoo.

-Shop at Queen Victoria Market, famous for its fresh produce.

Beyond Melbourne

Melbourne is the gateway to national parks such as Dandenong Ranges National Park and Grampians National Park. The city is also the starting point for the spectacular Great Ocean Road, one of the most scenic drives in Australia. The wine regions of Victoria are just beyond Melbourne, and the historic gold rush town of Ballarat is nearby.

Getting there

International flights land at Melbourne-Tullamarine Airport, located 15 miles (25km) north of Melbourne's city centre. The airport is world-class and easily accessible from anywhere in Melbourne.

Did you know?

-Thanks to colonist John Batman, Melbourne was originally called Batmania.

-The car park of the Queen Victoria Market is built over a cemetery containing some 9,000 bodies.

-Melbourne is said to be home to more foxes than any other city in the world.