Melbourne

Introducing Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city and the capital of Victoria, is a world-renowned tourist destination, consistently ranked as the world's most livable city and a renowned international metropolis. Here, you'll experience a rich colonial British atmosphere.

Melbourne is a friendly city, with friendly residents. Its landscape offers a blend of classic and modern elements: the Yarra River bisects the city, and the Victorian buildings and tree-lined boulevards along the river evoke the early days of European colonial rule. Victorian and Gothic architecture abound, imbued with a nostalgic ambiance. European-style cafes dot the streets, while Chinatown, Vietnamese Street, Turkish Street, and Portuguese Street each offer their own distinct character.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable all year round

From December to the end of January every year, on "Happy Monday", live music will be performed on Melbourne's rooftop bars, rain or shine; in November, there is the Halloween Zombie Parade and the Melbourne Cup; in January, there is the Australian Open; in March, there is a carnival with food festivals/fashion festivals/international flower shows, etc.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

National Gallery of Victoria

As Australia's oldest art gallery, it has hosted many local and international art exhibitions and major events, and its collection has exceeded 70,000 works.

Rooftop Bar

Melbourne's growing number of rooftop spots combine modern creativity with old-fashioned sophistication, making them the perfect place to enjoy lazy summer afternoons and evenings. Many rooftop spots are secluded, allowing you to soak up the city views all summer long.

Twelve Apostles

The coastline of the world-famous Twelve Apostles is a breathtaking landscape of rugged, weathered rock. These limestone columns rise above the southern sea of ​​Port Campbell National Park like majestic sentinels from an ancient world.

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Melbourne is considered one of the world's leading cities for street art, and many of Fitzroy's buildings are covered in large murals, turning the suburb into a free public gallery. Meet creatives at the Rose Street Art Market and browse boutiques on Gertrude Street.

Recommended number of days for a visit: 2-3 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Melbourne

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Melbourne, founded in 1835, is Victoria’s capital and a cultural, economic, and sporting hub. Known for its Victorian architecture, arts scene, and coffee culture, it is often regarded as Australia’s cultural capital.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Melbourne is located in southeastern Australia on the coast of Port Phillip Bay. It is accessible via Melbourne Airport. Public transport includes trains, trams, buses, taxis, and extensive walkable city areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions open around 9:00–10:00 and close between 17:00–18:00. Best times to visit are during spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) for mild weather and fewer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Melbourne Museum: ~$15–20, tickets online or at entrance.
• Federation Square cultural institutions: some free, others vary, check online.
• Luna Park St Kilda: ride passes ~$30, tickets at entrance or online.
• Sports events: vary by event, purchase online or at stadium box office.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For popular events, museums, and tours, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended. Day trips to Great Ocean Road or wine regions may require earlier booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 days to cover central attractions, cultural sites, and nearby day trips.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Federation Square
• Royal Botanic Gardens
• Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building
• Queen Victoria Market
• Hosier Lane and city laneways
• St Kilda and Luna Park
• Southbank and Yarra River precinct

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours are offered in English; some attractions provide multilingual audio guides.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Eureka Skydeck for city skyline views
• St Kilda Pier and beaches at sunset
• Royal Botanic Gardens
• Hosier Lane street art
• Federation Square for modern architecture photography

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with Federation Square and nearby laneways, then visit Melbourne Museum and Royal Botanic Gardens. Dedicate a day to St Kilda and Southbank, and use another day for Great Ocean Road or Yarra Valley trips.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

• Night markets at Queen Victoria Market seasonally
• Evening events at Federation Square or Southbank
• St Kilda sunset walks and Luna Park night rides

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends; early mornings help avoid peak tourist times.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

All major attractions offer toilets, cafés, restaurants, drinking water, rest areas, and gift shops.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, most attractions are wheelchair-accessible and suitable for families and elderly visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Credit/debit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; some small vendors may require cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Southbank: fine dining and casual restaurants
• St Kilda: beachfront cafés and seafood restaurants
• Laneways and Federation Square: cafés, bars, and multicultural eateries
• Queen Victoria Market: food stalls and casual dining

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, Melbourne has extensive vegetarian, vegan, and halal options across the city, especially in central laneways, St Kilda, and Southbank.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Luxury: Crown Towers, Grand Hyatt Melbourne
• Mid-range: Novotel Melbourne on Collins, The Jazz Corner Hotel
• Budget: Hostels in CBD and St Kilda

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Great Ocean Road
• Yarra Valley wine region
• Phillip Island for penguin parade
• Dandenong Ranges

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenirs include Aboriginal art, local crafts, Melbourne-themed apparel, and specialty foods like chocolates and coffee beans.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Public transport (trains, trams, buses), taxis, ride-sharing, and car rentals are convenient for day trips and travel to nearby attractions or Melbourne Airport.