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.
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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.
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.
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!
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?
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.
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.
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.
Melbourne Local Time
+10 Hours GMT
You require a valid passport and visa for the duration of stay
Highest Average: 25°
Lowest Average: 10°
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