Discover Melbourne's Treasures

Explore the cultural capital of Australia with its hidden laneways, iconic landmarks, and vibrant art scene

About Melbourne

The cultural heart of Australia awaits your discovery

A City of Contrasts and Culture

Melbourne, the coastal capital of Victoria, is renowned for its vibrant culture, world-class dining, and rich artistic heritage. As Australia's cultural capital, Melbourne offers visitors a unique blend of Victorian-era architecture, modern design, and multicultural influences that have shaped the city's distinctive character.

From the hidden laneways filled with street art and boutique cafés to the expansive Royal Botanic Gardens and the iconic MCG, Melbourne presents a diverse array of experiences for every type of traveler. The city's tram network—the largest outside Europe—connects its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique flavor and attractions.

With four distinct seasons, Melbourne offers year-round appeal, from summer festivals and sporting events to cozy winter retreats in its acclaimed restaurants and cultural venues. Whether you're seeking arts and culture, sporting excitement, culinary adventures, or natural beauty, Melbourne delivers unforgettable experiences that keep visitors returning time and again.

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Founded

1835

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Population

5.2 Million

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Climate

Temperate

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World Ranking

#1 Most Liveable City (7 times)

Melbourne's stunning cityscape with a mix of modern and historic architecture

Top Melbourne Attractions

Must-visit places that define the Melbourne experience

Federation Square bustling with visitors and cultural events

Federation Square

The cultural heart of Melbourne, Federation Square hosts over 2,000 events annually and houses important cultural institutions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image and the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia. This architectural marvel serves as Melbourne's meeting place, where locals and tourists gather to enjoy performances, screenings, and exhibitions in a vibrant public space.

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Royal Botanic Gardens with lush landscapes and peaceful lakes

Royal Botanic Gardens

Established in 1846, Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens span 38 hectares and showcase more than 8,500 plant species from around the world. These magnificent gardens offer tranquil lakes, sweeping lawns, and specialized collections like the Australian Forest Walk and the Guilfoyle's Volcano water conservation display. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, including the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, or simply stroll through this urban oasis.

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National Gallery of Victoria featuring impressive architecture and art displays

National Gallery of Victoria

As Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) houses an extensive collection of over 70,000 works spanning thousands of years. Split between two locations—NGV International on St Kilda Road and The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square—the gallery presents everything from European masters to contemporary Australian art, including significant Indigenous works.

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Melbourne's famous street art-filled laneways with cafes and boutiques

Melbourne Laneways

Melbourne's labyrinthine network of laneways represents the city's cultural soul, with hidden bars, street art, boutique shops, and world-class cafés tucked away in these narrow thoroughfares. Highlights include Hosier Lane's ever-changing street art gallery, the elegant Block Arcade with its Victorian architecture, and Hardware Lane's vibrant dining scene. Exploring these laneways reveals Melbourne's creative spirit and offers authentic local experiences.

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Queen Victoria Market with vendors and fresh produce

Queen Victoria Market

Operating since 1878, the Queen Victoria Market is a Melbourne institution and the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. This historic landmark offers everything from fresh produce and gourmet delicacies to clothing, crafts, and souvenirs. The market's vibrant atmosphere comes alive with specialty shopping nights, food festivals, and live entertainment, making it both a working market for locals and a must-visit destination for tourists.

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Melbourne Cricket Ground during a major sporting event

Melbourne Cricket Ground

The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is Australia's largest sporting stadium and a place of pilgrimage for sports enthusiasts worldwide. With a capacity of 100,000, this hallowed venue hosts cricket in summer and Australian Rules Football in winter, along with major concerts and events. Visitors can tour the stadium, explore the National Sports Museum, and experience the electric atmosphere of a live sporting event at this Melbourne landmark.

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Traveler Stories

Hear from those who've experienced Melbourne's magic

Sarah from Canada smiling in front of Melbourne street art

"Melbourne captured my heart with its incredible coffee culture and hidden laneways. I spent days just wandering through street art galleries and discovering tiny cafés. The city has such a relaxed vibe despite being so cosmopolitan. Highlights for me were the Melbourne Museum, Brighton Beach Boxes, and experiencing a footy game at the MCG. I've traveled to many cities, but Melbourne's unique charm keeps calling me back."

Sarah Thompson

Canada

★★★★★
James from UK enjoying coffee at a Melbourne laneway cafe

"As a food lover, Melbourne was nothing short of paradise. From the Queen Victoria Market's food stalls to the fine dining along the Yarra, every meal was an adventure. The cultural diversity is reflected in the incredible restaurant scene. I also loved how easy it was to navigate with the free tram zone in the CBD. Taking a day trip to the Yarra Valley wineries was the perfect complement to my urban explorations. Melbourne truly deserves its reputation as Australia's culinary capital."

James Wilson

United Kingdom

★★★★★
Akiko from Japan at Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens

"My family vacation to Melbourne exceeded all expectations. The city is incredibly family-friendly with attractions like the Melbourne Zoo and SEA LIFE Aquarium keeping the kids entertained. We loved exploring the Royal Botanic Gardens and picnicking by the Ornamental Lake. The free City Circle Tram made sightseeing easy and fun for everyone. What impressed me most was how seamlessly Melbourne blends natural beauty with urban excitement—truly a perfect destination for travelers of all ages."

Akiko Tanaka

Japan

★★★★★

Melbourne Travel Resources

Curated guides and information to enhance your Melbourne adventure

30 Incredible Things to Do in Melbourne, Australia (By a Local!)

Jan 28, 2025 ... Visit the National Gallery of Victoria. The oldest art museum in Australia, the NGV, is the highlight of Melbourne's diverse arts scene. On the ...

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Places to visit in Victoria: 20 beautiful spots to explore

May 29, 2024 ... When visiting Melbourne, one of the best day trips is to the Grampians, an area well-known for its abundant wildlife, walking trails, and ...

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Melbourne Travel Guide | U.S. News Travel

Best Things to Do in Melbourne · #1. in Shrine of Remembrance · #2. in Port Campbell National Park · #3. in Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.

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Road trips and itineraries, See and do, Victoria, Australia

Explore road trips, itineraries and walking trails. Follow our routes or pick your own path.

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Where to stay in Melbourne in 2025: Best areas and hotels!

City centre: The best area to stay in Melbourne for first-time visitors, with easy access to attractions and transport. · Southbank: · Docklands: · Fitzroy (and ...

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Official Puffing Billy Railway - Melbourne Family Attraction

Australia's premier preserved steam railway, Puffing Billy, travels daily (except Christmas Day) through Melbourne's Dandenong Ranges. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL.

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Melbourne's Accolades

Recognitions and achievements that make Melbourne special

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World's Most Liveable City

Named the world's most liveable city for seven consecutive years (2011-2017) by the Economist Intelligence Unit.

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UNESCO City of Gastronomy

Recognized in 2017 as part of UNESCO's Creative Cities Network for its diverse food culture and culinary innovation.

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Cultural Capital of Australia

Consistently acknowledged as Australia's cultural hub, hosting over 3,000 artistic and cultural events annually.

World's Best Coffee Scene

Ranked #1 for coffee culture by international travel publications, celebrated for its artisanal cafés and innovative brewing techniques.

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Sustainable City Design

Recipient of multiple awards for urban planning, green spaces, and commitment to becoming a carbon-neutral city by 2040.

Tour Packages

Curated experiences to make the most of your Melbourne visit

Melbourne Essentials

$149/person
  • 2-day guided city exploration
  • Federation Square & NGV tour
  • Laneway discovery walk
  • Queen Victoria Market visit
  • Free Melbourne tram rides

Melbourne Luxury

$499/person
  • 5-day premium experience
  • All Complete package features
  • Private guided tours
  • Helicopter city tour
  • Fine dining experiences
  • Great Ocean Road adventure
  • Luxury hotel accommodation

Melbourne Insider Tips

Local secrets and hidden gems for authentic experiences

Hidden garden rooftop bar in Melbourne with city views

Beyond the Tourist Trail

While Melbourne's iconic attractions deserve their fame, the city's true character lies in its lesser-known corners. Venture to Fitzroy's Rose Street Artists' Market on weekends to discover unique handcrafted treasures from local artisans. For literary enthusiasts, the hidden Wheeler Centre hosts fascinating talks and workshops by renowned authors and thinkers.

Melbourne's rooftop culture extends beyond the popular spots—seek out Curtain House's Rooftop Bar or the secret garden at Loop Roof for spectacular city views without the crowds. Food lovers should explore the ethnic enclaves of Footscray for authentic Ethiopian cuisine or Box Hill for some of the best Chinese food outside of China.

For a unique perspective, kayak along the Yarra River at sunset or join a ghost tour of the historic Old Melbourne Gaol. Nature enthusiasts can discover the Abbotsford Convent's peaceful gardens or the hidden CERES Community Environment Park, showcasing sustainable living practices. These authentic experiences reveal Melbourne's multifaceted character beyond the tourist guidebooks.

Best Time to Visit

March to May (autumn) and September to November (spring) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Local Transport Hack

Purchase a Myki card and take advantage of the Free Tram Zone in Melbourne's CBD to save on transportation costs.

Hidden Dining Gems

Explore the restaurants on Degraves Street and Centre Place for authentic Melbourne dining experiences away from tourist spots.

Meet Our Local Guides

Passionate Melburnians ready to share their city with you

David, a Melbourne history expert with glasses and friendly smile

David Mitchell

History & Architecture Expert

With a PhD in Australian Urban History, David brings Melbourne's past to life through engaging stories and little-known facts. His specialized walking tours of the city's historical districts have been featured in National Geographic Traveler.

Jasmine, a food and culture guide with colorful outfit

Jasmine Wong

Food & Culture Specialist

A third-generation Melburnian with Chinese heritage, Jasmine explores Melbourne's diverse culinary landscape through her popular food tours. Her intimate knowledge of the city's multicultural neighborhoods provides unique insights into Melbourne's rich cultural tapestry.

Steve, an outdoor adventure guide with hiking gear

Steve Turner

Nature & Wildlife Guide

Former park ranger Steve specializes in Melbourne's surrounding natural wonders. His expert-led excursions to the Dandenong Ranges, Phillip Island, and Great Ocean Road showcase Victoria's stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.

Olivia, an arts and culture guide with artistic style

Olivia Martinez

Arts & Street Culture Expert

Olivia's background as a practicing artist and curator gives her tours of Melbourne's galleries, theaters, and street art an authentic perspective. Her connections in the local arts scene often provide behind-the-scenes access to studios and creative spaces.

Plan Your Melbourne Adventure

Let us help you create the perfect itinerary for your visit

Get in Touch

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Address

200 Flinders Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

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Phone

+61 3 9658 9658

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Office Hours

Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm AEST
Saturday: 10am-2pm AEST

Inquiry Form