Melbourne

One of Craig’s favourite cities in the world… Melbourne, which is also known as the cultural capital of Australia. In the state of Victoria lies this captivating city that combines culture and modernity. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse population, Melbourne has earned its reputation as one of the world’s most livable cities.

While Melbourne may not have the stunning landmarks that Sydney has, don’t be fooled, it is still a city of endless highlights. Its iconic laneways have a thriving street art scene, where murals and hidden gems adorn every corner. It’s especially good for food, so visitors often take a culinary journey through the city’s renowned cafes, restaurants, and bustling markets. We call the city one of the coffee capitals of the world, with great baristas on every coroner too so don’t miss out on the cafe culture here.

For sports enthusiasts, Melbourne is a true paradise. The city hosts prestigious events like the Australian Open tennis tournament, The Formula 1 and the Melbourne Cup horse race, bringing in worldwide crowds. Its sporting culture is mostly based around Australian rules football (AFL), cricket, and rugby throughout the year.

The Royal Botanic Gardens provide a green escape amidst the bustling city, while the vibrant nightlife is filled with rooftop bars and great live music venues, but you need to be in the know on where to go in Melbourne as everywhere will feel like a secret doorway.

Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
Drive on which side? Left-hand side
Country dial code: +61
Size of city: 3,858 square miles (9,993 square km)
Population: Approx. 5 million
Best time of year to visit: November to April