The city of Melbourne is a coastal metropolis with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. It is considered the cultural capital of Australia, and it is easy to see why. Melbourne is home to galleries, gardens, museums and nature reserves. There is an abundance of interesting architecture ranging from Victorian structures to contemporary designs. With great food, nightlife, shopping and sports, Melbourne is a clear winner for an Australian getaway. An overview of Melbourne's best attractions:
1. Royal Botanical Gardens
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| Royal Melbourne Botanic Gardens |
In the upscale neighborhood of South Yarra, you will find the Royal Botanic Gardens. This is a lush, green oasis just steps from the heart of Melbourne, yet it feels like a million miles away. Inside the Royal Botanical Gardens, you can stroll along the Australian Forest Walk, admiring local species and plant life along the way. Take a deep breath while you are in the Rose Collection, a colorful collection of flowers with a very romantic atmosphere. For a special treat, head to Ornamental Lake. On the shore, you can join a short guided tour from a punt, a small boat that allows you to see the garden from a new perspective.
2. Eureka Tower
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| Eureka Tower |
In the center of the city is the Eureka Tower, the highest viewpoint in all of Melbourne. If you want panoramic views of the city, this is the only place worth visiting. When you visit, you will head to one of the twin elevators. In less than 40 seconds, you'll be taken from ground level to the 88th floor. If you're feeling daring, you can trade the views of the Skydeck for the thrills of The Edge. The Edge is a glass square in which even the ground is clear, providing unsurpassed views from all angles.
3. Queen Victoria Market
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| Queen Victoria Market |
One of Melbourne's must-see attractions is the Queen Victoria Market. It is a huge open-air market, one of the largest in the world, dating back to the 19th century. The local call is Queen Vic or just Vic Market, and the name does not come from the Queen, but from the location on the corner of Queen and Victoria streets. The best way to experience the market is on foot, browsing the stalls and vendors selling everything from fresh farm vegetables to handmade jewelry and specialty clothing. Have something tasty to eat, or have a refreshing drink, and spend the day in this relaxed and exciting atmosphere in the heart of the city.
4. National Gallery of Victoria
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| National Gallery of Victoria |
Australia's largest, oldest and most impressive art museum is located in the city. The National Gallery of Victoria, known to locals as GNV, has an incredible collection of important works of art. The NGV is actually made up of two parts. The first, located in St. Kilda, is called NGV International. This is where you will find art from Europe, Asia and America. At the Ian Potter Center: NGV Australia, works come from indigenous peoples, early colonial settlers and contemporary Australian artists. The two branches of NGC are home to pieces by Rembrandt, Monet, and Tom Roberts, just to name a few.
5. Melbourne Zoo
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| Melbourne Zoo |
In the Parkville district of the city, you'll find the Melbourne Zoo. This zoo is special because the animals live in natural environments, their habitats are designed for the comfort of the animals and not for the views of the visitors. Although Melbourne Zoo has a large number of local animals, you will also find some less common species. Don't miss the Wild Sea Exhibit, where you can see penguins and seals up close. Also noteworthy is the baboon viewpoint, a spectacular place where you can search for members of a large family of baboons. There is also a 19th century English carousel at the zoo that the kids will definitely want to ride.
6. Melbourne Cricket Ground
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| Melbourne Cricket Ground |
The largest cricket stadium in the country and one of the largest in the world is the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Situated in Yarra Park, the stadium is known to locals as The G. Built in the mid-19th century, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is virtually always undergoing renovation or refurbishment. Even if you can't attend a cricket match while visiting, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is worth a visit. You are free to check it out as you explore the National Sports Museum, which is situated on the grounds.
7. Hosier Lane
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| Hosier Lane |
Inject some local flavor into your trip to Melbourne by exploring Hosier Lane. Just steps from the banks of the Yarra River, Hosier Lane is the starting point for local street art and culture. The stone path is lined with walls that serve as canvases, each decorated with a variety of pieces. You can admire hastily drawn sketches alongside murals using bright, vivid colors. Grab a camera and walk the lane on your own, or take a guided tour. Since you're in the area, keep walking until you reach Rutledge, a lesser-known but equally impressive gallery street in the area.
8. Fitzroy Gardens
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| Fitzroy Gardens Melbourne |
Right on the edge of the CBD, or Central Business District, is Fitzroy Gardens. The gardens date from 1848, the year they were used for public space. At the time, the establishment of a beautiful public park was rare, making it an important reminder of Melbourne's role as a city of the people and as a garden city. Since Fitzroy Gardens is over 160 years old, it features a number of older and taller trees. Blue gums, willows, and elms were very popular during the 19th century. Today, Victorian landscapes can be traversed, but everyone can see an ornamental lake and even the cottage where James Cook's parents lived, which was brought from England to Melbourne.
9. Federation Square
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| Federation Square |
If you want to get to the heart and soul of Melbourne, head to Federation Square. This is a central meeting place where many locals gather, and it is the ideal place for people watching. It is also a place that you will almost certainly pass at some point, as it is an important communications hub and the place where the city's Visitor Center is located. Federation Square is where the Australian section of the National Gallery of Victoria is located, as well as the Australian Center for the Moving Image. Come to the attractions but stick to the sidewalk cafes and bars to experience some of the local flavor.
10. Royal Exhibition Building
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| Royal Exhibition Building |
Head to the Carlton district to visit the magnificent Royal Exhibition Building. Built in 1880, the structure served as the meeting place for the first Australian Federal Parliament. While parts of the building have disappeared thanks to the fires, the main hall still stands, topped by an incredible vaulted ceiling. The Royal Exhibition Building is a common venue for local events and conventions, but you can enter it during opening hours for a self-guided tour. Explore the incredible galleries, beautiful furnishings, and stunning designs by the original architect, Joseph Reed.