Book Flights Melbourne

If you are into sports, then you will be at home in Melbourne. Every January, the city is abuzz with activity, when tennis aficionados from all over the globe arrive in droves to watch the Australian Open. For high-octane spectacle, visit Melbourne in March to watch your favourite Formula 1 drivers compete in the Australian Grand Prix.

Australians love sports of any kind, but cricket really sets their pulses racing. The Melbourne Cricket Ground, locally referred to simply as “G”, is very much part of the city’s history. Built in 1853 – just 20 years after Melbourne was founded – it was where the first ever ball in Test cricket was bowled, in 1877. Since then, the venue has hosted several Test matches, as well as football and rugby tournaments, Olympic Games, and concerts.

For panoramic vistas of Melbourne, visit the 300-metre Eureka Tower, which is home to Eureka Skydeck – the highest public viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere. For a closer look at some of the city’s architecture, head to Federation Square, where you will also find plenty of cafés.

If you are travelling with children, take them to the Melbourne Zoo, which has animal exhibits from all over the world.

You can soak up the city’s culture when you travel to Melbourne by visiting the world-renowned Melbourne Museum and National Gallery of Victoria. For some pop culture, stroll through the back alleys of Hosier Lane and Rutledge Lane, home to modern art galleries and plenty of dazzling graffiti.

Melbourne has a thriving cultural scene. Australians are well known for their sense of humour, and there are plenty of comedy clubs and night spots in the city. If you would prefer to experience something a little more high-brow during your trip, visit one of its many theatres, such as the Princess Theatre or the National Theatre.

You will also have ample opportunity to enjoy the various beaches around the city. Popular choices include St Kilda Beach, Brighton Beach and Williamstown. Weather in Melbourne is unpredictable, hence the adage “you can experience four seasons in one day”. Winter is from June to August, so if you are planning your trip between May and September, be prepared for both rain and sun.

Melbourne excels when it comes to eating out, and its offerings are more affordable compared to some of the world’s culinary capitals. High concentrations of restaurants for all budgets can be found in the central areas of the city – in the Docklands, Carlton and Southbank. In addition, you will also find plenty of takeaways and even some UK-style fish-and-chip shops.

If you are looking for an authentic taste of Australia, then try a kangaroo steak or emu burger, then indulge your sweet tooth with some lamington (sponge-cake, smothered in chocolate sauce and coated in desiccated coconut).

You can also mirror the easy pace of the city, by taking a break in some of Melbourne’s cafés and coffee bars.

Travel to Melbourne and you will find some of the world’s top fashion brands, independent boutiques and malls.

For designer fashion, head to Collins Street and Little Collins Street, but make sure your purse is well stocked. For more affordable shopping, try Elizabeth Street or Chapel Street. Virtually anything you might need or want can usually be found in the large shopping complexes further out of the city, such as Westfield Doncaster Shoppingtown and Chadstone. There are also several malls in the city centre, including Melbourne Central and Bourke Street Mall.