Travel to Melbourne with travel insurance from Essential Travel

click here for a single trip travel insurance quotation

Information on Melbourne

Arguably one of the most refined cities in the southern hemisphere, Melbourne has a rich history, plenty of culture, good ethnic diversity, and a fine assortment of worthwhile attractions. This cultural melting pot in the state of Victoria is home to more people of Greek descent than any other city outside of Greece. Additionally, high populations of Chinese, Italian, Vietnamese and Lebanese immigrants have added to the cosmopolitan flair of Melbourne. ' '

Key Attractions

Federation Square encompasses an assortment of attractions, including the National Gallery of Victoria, a massive three-storey building with the largest collection of Australian art in the country. Here, you’ll find works by Sidney Nolan, Russell Drysdale and Tom Roberts, as well as by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

Also worth seeing, Old Melbourne Gaol is a former prison with cramped cells and an eerie collection of death masks and artefacts of 19th century prison life. The notorious bandit and Australian hero Ned Kelly was hanged here in 1880. The Melbourne Zoo was built in 1862. It is one of the oldest zoos in the world and home to 3,000 animals. Somewhat unusual but staking an important claim in Melbourne’s history is the immigrants museum which is worth seeing. For the best views of the city head up to the viewing deck of the Rialto tower. For relaxation, try a stroll in Melbourne’s excellent Royal Botanic Garden.

Out and About

Outside of Port Phillip Bay is the nature reserve and weekend destination of Phillip Island, which offer a good escape from the city. Another good alternative are the secluded beaches and cliffs of Wilson’s Promontory National Park. The Great Ocean Road is one of the worlds greatest drives and is on Victorias southern coastline. Highlights along the road are the Cape Otway National Park and the famous rock formations named the Twelve Apostles.

Leisure Options

Melbourne is known as the shopping capital of Australia and boasts everything from fashion houses to major department stores and unusual souvenir shops. Chinatown, in the city centre, offers an amazing array of restaurants, including Chinese, Malaysian, Thai, Indonesian, Japanese and Vietnamese.

The nightlife in Melbourne is exciting, with a good selection of pubs ranging from the trendy to the down-to-earth variety. The precinct along the Yarra river has been re-developed, featuring trendy restaurants. Perhaps the liveliest suburb by night is St Kilda, which is packed with bars and eateries and boasts a fun fair and beach. It sits beside Albert Park, where the annual Grand Prix is held.

Safety

Like any big city, Melbourne has some pickpockets but is generally pretty safe for its size. However, travellers should remain aware of their surroundings and mindful of their possessions. Driving can pose additional hazards and taking out travel insurance is recommended.

Weather in Melbourne

Most of Melbourne is in the temperate area of the south east of Australia with dry summers and cool, damp winters. There is snow in the Australian Alps in the northeast from June to September, while the eastern highlands have the most rainfall. Melbourne has a changeable climate that is known for its four-seasons-in-a-day weather patterns. ' '

Melbourne Travel Partners & Resources

' ' '

Hotel BakPak
Hotel BakPak is an affordable, clean, safe backpacker accommodation in the heart of Melbourne.

Great Places to Stay - Accommodation Victoria
This excellent showcase of unique accommodation includes bed & breakfasts, self-catering cottages and luxury villas from the Great Ocean Road to the mountains of Victoria and the city of Melbourne.

'

back to city guides