Melbourne is the coastal capital of the southeastern Australian state of Victoria. At the city's centre is the modern Federation Square development, with plazas, bars, and restaurants by the Yarra River. In the Southbank area, the Melbourne Arts Precinct is the site of Arts Centre Melbourne – a performing arts complex – and the National Gallery of Victoria, with Australian and indigenous art.

The centre of Melbourne is threaded with cobbled laneways, which have become a mecca for coffee shops, cafés and unique shopping boutiques. Start at Flinders Street station, wander down Degraves Street, and explore the city’s beautiful arcades and street art around every corner - including from England-based graffiti artist Banksy. Head down Collins Street to visit the exquisite Block Arcade then get your caffeine hit at pocket-sized Brother Baba Budan or Patricia, both on Little Bourke Street.

Shop like a local

Melbourne is renowned for its markets, which sell everything from local produce to arts and crafts and vintage fashion. Get amongst the hustle and bustle of the Queen Victoria Markets, the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. You can take a bus from there to the South Melbourne Market, and enjoy dim sim or street-style Mexican food under its historic awnings. On weekends, pick up handmade pieces from emerging Australian designers at the Rose St. Artists’ Market in Fitzroy, just a quick tram ride from the city centre.

Dine at famous eateries

Book well in advance for Attica, one of the world’s 50 best restaurants, and tuck into Ben Shewry’s unique tasting menu. Melbourne’s city laneways are home to popular restaurants, such as Tonka, hidden down the graffiti-covered Duckboard Place, and elegant Flower Drum on Market Lane. Nearby, TV chef George Colombaris plates up modern Greek food at his flagship restaurant The Press Club and souvas at his string of casual restaurants Jimmy Grants. For the tastiest cheap eats, don't miss Hannoi Hannah's delicious Vietnamese street food or Fonda Mexican for tacos and burritos. Both pack out quickly. 

Sip cocktails at a rooftop bar 

Enjoy drinks with a view at one of Melbourne’s many rooftop bars. Popping up across the city centre, and the bohemian neighbourhoods of Fitzroy and Carlton. spectacular rooftop terrace at Naked in the Sky in Fitzroy, Rooftop Bar gracing Curtin House in the city centre, and, nearby, the very unique Madame Brussels.