Visit Melbourne and you get a real sense of why life in Australia is so attractive. You’ll find a city at ease with itself, brimming with relaxed cafes, friendly bars and quirky neighbourhoods. Australia’s second city boasts bustling markets and sparkling skyscrapers alongside the trademark trams and sun-kissed beach.
Things to do....
Melbourne Attractions
There’s something for everyone in Melbourne and Victoria. You can hang out with the crowds in Federation Square or soak up the atmosphere in the boho bars of Fitzroy. You can amble along the city’s famous laneways or follow the beaten track along the Great Ocean Drive to Victoria’s awe-inspiring limestone coastline. Spending Christmas in Melbourne? Here’s just a small selection of Melbourne highlights.
A Day in St Kilda
Melbourne’s iconic seashore suburb bustles all year round. Head for the beachfront and you’ll find markets and live music. Hit the beach for some relaxed sunbathing or set out to sea for kitesurfing and sailing. The rides and attractions of legendary Luna Park are hard to resist then you can round it all off with a dip in St Kilda Sea Baths’ heated seawater spas and pools.
Eureka Skydeck 88
If you’ve a head for heights then the Eureka Skydeck 88 is a tip-top Melbourne attraction. The highest viewing platform in the southern hemisphere gives you magnificent views across the city. The undeniable highlight is ‘The Edge’ – a switchable glass cube which slides you out from the building, 88 stories up. Gulp!
The Penguins of Phillip Island
Just 90 minutes drive from Melbourne city centre is the world-renowned Phillip Island Nature Park. The highlight of this diverse 2,750 acre haven for wildlife is the daily Penguin Parade. You can join the hushed crowds in the stands and watch the penguins head for home up the beach or opt to take in the Koala Conservation Centre. Waddle it be?
Queen Victoria Market
Looking for a memorable Melbourne souvenir of your Ashes trip? Queen Victoria Market has it all – from classy clothes and jewellery to the inevitable Koala and kangaroo keepsakes. It’s also a feast for the senses – fresh fruit and veg vying with succulent seafood for attention. The Queen Vic serves up much more than just a shopping expedition – it’s Melbourne in microcosm.
The Twelve Apostles
If you can spare more than a few days in Melbourne take time to marvel at some rock stars. Four hours drive from the city, along the beautiful Great Ocean Drive, stand the Twelve Apostles. These imperious 45m high rock stacks have been carved from the limestone cliffs by the sea. Watch the Apostles transform from sandy yellow to brooding black at sunrise and sunset.
Melbourne Museum
On a rainy day in Victoria, there’s no better bet than Melbourne Museum. You’ll find an eclectic array of exhibits under one roof. There’s everything from legendary champion horse Phar Lap to an in-depth depiction of Aboriginal history and culture. Sitting somewhere in between is the kitchen set from hit TV soap Neighbours.
Climate and Average Weather
Melbourne
Notes on visiting....
Time Zone
Melbourne Local Time +10 Hours GMT
Passport
You require a valid passport and visa for the duration of stay