During the gold rush of the 1850s, Melbourne was transformed into one of the richest cities in the world. Maintaining the lavish charm of 19th century gold discoveries in the Victorian fields, Melbourne remains one of the most livable cities in the world.
This coastal capital of Victoria has an abundance of picturesque landscapes, nature and wildlife. With thriving and well-preserved nature reserves, conservation parks, and a history gushing through the ripples of the Yarra River, it’s not hard to imagine what a trip to Melbourne would be like.
With so much to see and enjoy, a thought like ‘What to do in Melbourne’ will never cross your mind. It would be a mix of history with a touch of nature wrapped in the vibrant culture and scenic skyline of this Australian city.
Take a look at this quick guide to the city:
The secret streets of Melbourne
Melbourne’s Laneways have hidden magic that reverberates throughout. It is a melting pot of culture, art, shops, bars and more. Head to Somerset Place for a haircut or a pint of beer. Tattersalls Lane is a foodie’s delight, Crossley Street is lined with trendy cafes, Presgrave and Niagara Lane are lined with artwork and street art, and Howey Lane is for fashionistas.
Take a walk around the Yarra River Precinct
The beautiful Yarra River is Melbourne’s point of origin. It is the birthplace of the city. Amazing wine tours along the river, cruises to Flemington Racecourse, Dandenong Range, and Gembrook campgrounds are a hit on all itineraries. The Yarra River Colonnade has surprisingly inexpensive serviced accommodation in Melbourne.
Enjoy the Music and Art festival
The city has a culturally diverse music scene where even the streets are filled with street performers and buskers. There are many entertainment opportunities here for art and music lovers. This winter, Melbourne’s music and theater scene is packed with performances and concerts.
The City Council’s Great Organ Concert is waiting for you and it’s free. The celebrated classic The Wizard of Oz musical theater is turning heads at the Regent Theater until July 29. Those who are interested in arts and exhibitions can discover contemporary and modern art at MoMA, organized by NGV, is open from June 9 to October 10.
For a unique experience, head to Art House, where The Rabble has organized a live installation on the journey through childhood and adulthood under the theme ‘Lone’, June 8-17. Those who love history can explore the Melbourne museum exhibition on ‘Vikings Beyond Legend’, which is open until 26 August.
Absorb the beauty of Australia’s landscapes, wildlife and nature reserves
With a rich coastline along Australia’s southeastern mountain range, Melbourne has an extravagant natural treasure. Millions of years old, the 12 Apostles of the Great Ocean Road are a magnificent collection of limestone cliffs that form a garland along the Victorian coastline. Princess Margaret Rose Cave is a limestone cave in Mumbannar. It has beautiful formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
Take a trip to Phillip Island to catch a glimpse of penguins and koalas. Camping and canoeing on the Murray River is a great way to explore the rich wildlife and sandy beaches of the south coast.
Some of Melbourne’s famous national parks worth a visit are Mungo National Park, Dandenong Ranges, Great Otway National Park, Wilsons Promontory, and many more.
Hang out on the best beaches and coastal beauty.
Melbourne’s vast coastal side has many wonderfully distributed beaches and coastlines. Gippsland Beach stretches a whopping 90 miles and is the longest beach in the world. The Mornington Peninsula has beautiful sandy beaches where you can enjoy a sunny day of golf, wine, hot springs, and surfing. Sorrento, St. Andrews and Fingal Victoria are the best.
Aboriginal cultural tours of Victoria
Take a trip into Australian culture and heritage by visiting the area inhabited by Australia’s first inhabitants. A heritage walk in the Royal Botanical Gardens will acquaint you with the Kulin nation. Learn about the history of Birrarung Marr on the Koorie Heritage Trust Cultural Walk. The Wurundjeri Cultural Solution and the Brambuk Six Stations Cultural Tour in Grampian National Park are great too.