Melbourne: Multi-Cultural and Cosmopolitan

Melbourne

A melting pot of cultures, a premier sporting destination, a new-age cosmopolitan destination with a distinctly modern ambience, Melbourne is one of Australia's most beautiful cities.

Home to indigenous tribes and hunter-gatherers before the 1800s, Melbourne's population explosion began with Victoria's gold rush in 1851. From then on, it witnessed a steady influx of overseas migrants and is today the second most populous city in Australia and will become the largest city in Australia by 2030.

Over the recent years, important development projects have further modernized Melbourne and enhanced its cosmopolitan appeal. Its going to the envy of the World and was voted the most livable city in the World by Economist

Best times to visit Melbourne

Melbourne is famous for having 'four seasons in one day', a reference to its rather changeable weather. The best time to visit the city is during autumn and spring (Sept, Oct, Nov, March, April and May) when the weather is pleasant and warm. The heat can get a bit much during the summers (with heat waves to boot) while winters are chilly and damp.

Places of interest

There is much to see and experience in Melbourne, one reason why it is best to plan a leisurely trip to this city. Whether you are on a solo trip, with that special someone, or your family, Melbourne's thriving cultural scene, friendly crowds, and numerous entertainment precincts will keep you happy!

Federation Square: Melbourne's cultural precinct, Federation Square's architecture has been a subject of debate, with some calling it an eye-sore, but visitor traffic has been in the millions despite this. It is the space where cultural gatherings and celebrations come alive and a platform for both performances and protests. But more importantly it is the city's premier 'hang-out' zone with parks, museums, restaurants, bars, cafes and event venues.

Queen Victoria Market: When you step into Queen Victoria Market, you instantly feel the local buzz and see the diverse culture of the city unfolding before your eyes. This open air market has been in existence for over 120 years, and had a tumultuous history of sorts, starting out as a cemetery and then a livestock market to finally a mecca for anyone looking to buy exotic Australian vegetables fruits, local gourmet, poultry and fish, Australian artefacts and wine.

Melbourne Zoo: If you are visiting with kids, you cannot afford to miss a trip to the Melbourne Zoo. Over 300 animal species and an excellent menagerie exhibit amidst beautiful botanical-style gardens make it a must-visit attraction.

Crown Casino: On Yarra River's north bank is the Crown Entertainment Complex, an entertainment and gaming hotspot, with world class hotels, restaurants, bars, live show venues, designer stores, and of course the Crown Casino.

Melbourne Docklands: The ongoing development of Melbourne Docklands is aimed at ultimately making this 200 hectare area a leisure, entertainment and technological zone, as well a residential and business precinct. Encompassing diverse uses, plans for the docklands include the Waterfront City with the Southern Star Ferris Wheel, the NewQuay residential complex, and the Digital Harbour with over 200,000 square meters of retail, commercial, residential and SOHO space. Melbourne Docklands project is expected to be completed in 2015 and set to attract millions of visitors each year.

Plan your trip around these events

Spring Racing Carnival: World class racing action, free-flowing champagne and high- fashion everywhere!

The Australian Open: Top-notch tennis action at Melbourne Park where the best of the best battle it out!

Formula One Australian Grand Prix: Adrenalin pumping experience with F1 cars swishing past at break neck speed!

Melbourne Food and Wine Festival: Sample local delicacies and catch culinary masters like Nigella Lawson, Matt Preston and Rachel Allen!

See what other events are in Melbourne and plan your trip with us!