Melbourne, Every Bit Different

Welcome to Melbourne and Victoria.

Our great state is a lot of things, almost too many to list. And that’s the secret. You never come here for just one thing. Delve into Melbourne’s hidden laneways and world-class dining. A city that’s absolutely packed with things to see and do, from our roaring sports stadiums to our labyrinth of colourful laneways. Choose from high-end cuisine to basement rock gigs, plays, festivals and blockbuster sporting events – all happening across a city full of parks, gardens and historic architecture. There’s always something exciting happening in Melbourne, whatever your taste.

Then hit the road to discover Victoria’s tiny towns and jaw-dropping natural wonders. From serene spa destinations to thriving art-filled hubs, there’s a lot of very different bits, all doing things very differently.

But then again, that’s what makes us – every bit different.



Wander street-art laneways

Melbourne’s laneways opens in new window are a treasure box of hidden gems. Here, you'll find award-winning restaurants, theatres, galleries and standing-room only cocktail bars. Hosier Lane is one of the biggest tourist draws for its ever-changing street art. Degraves Street is full of cute cafes. Hardware Lane has a range of outdoor restaurants. We recommend letting your two feet and your sense of adventure lead the way.

Shop at Melbourne’s markets

Melbourne has markets galore, selling fresh produce, vintage fashion and artisanal goods. Don't miss historic Queen Victoria Market opens in new window, South Melbourne Market opens in new window and Prahran Market opens in new window. Here you'll find generous delis, spectacular produce, amazing seafood and charismatic eateries. You'll also find stores selling cookware, clothing and all manner of market goods. For unique local arts and crafts, head to the Rose Street Artists’ Market opens in new window in Fitzroy.

Road trips & Itineraries

Hit the road and explore Victoria’s stunning landscapes, charming historic towns, and world-class food and wine. From mountain peaks to rugged coastlines, every adventure is just a short drive away. Plan your perfect road trip opens in new window and discover the best of Victoria at your own pace!

See theatre and musicals

If you love theatre, Melbourne will dazzle you. Grand theatres like the Princess opens in new window, Her Majesty’s opens in new window and the Regent opens in new window stage major musicals. There are sleek performance spaces in the Arts Centre opens in new window for other shows. If you prefer something smaller, Melbourne has plenty of cabaret spaces. Try La Mama, The Butterfly Club and 45Downstairs. Local entertainment guides like Time Out opens in new window have listings of what’s on.



Useful information

Melbourne Airport (MEL)

Distance to city centre 23km, approximately 40 mins travel time

Taxi You’ll find taxi ranks located across from the terminals. Approximate fare to the city centre is AUD $75.

Rideshare Pickup opens in new window is available from lane 3 of the main forecourt of terminals 1, 2 and 3.

Airport bus Skybus opens in new window runs 7 days per week. One-way fares: adult AUD $19.75, child (4-16 years) AUD $5. Return fares: adult AUD $37.50, child AUD $10.

When to go

Melbourne has a temperate climate, known for its unpredictability – 'four seasons in one day', as the saying goes. Winter can be on the chilly side, with average minimum temperatures of 6–7°C from June–October, while summer sees temperatures rise to over 30°C (usually with a couple of days over 40°C thrown in for good measure).

Come in March–April for Melbourne International Comedy Festival opens in new window, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival opens in new window and Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show opens in new window. In May–June, see the Rising opens in new window arts festival and Melbourne Writers Festival opens in new window. In August, catch the Melbourne International Film Festival opens in new window.

Getting around

A free City Circle opens in new window historic tourist tram (number 35) runs around the perimetre of the city centre.

Visit Public Transport Victoria opens in new window for tram, bus and train timetables, journey planners and ticket information. To travel on public transport you'll need a myki card opens in new window (available from train stations, major tram stops and all 7-Eleven convenience stores). Please note that myki is not accepted on the privately run Skybus to and from the airport.

Visitors can buy a Myki Explorer opens in new window, which includes a myki card, maps and discounts at local attractions, from SkyBus terminals at Melbourne Airport and Southern Cross Station, and from the PTV Hubs opens in new window at Southern Cross Station, Geelong and Bendigo.