Melbourne is host to many of Australia’s most famous cultural events as well as world-famous sporting attractions such as the Grand Prix, Australian Open Tennis and the Melbourne Cup horse race.
This is a great city to get lost in, with its many hidden lanes and streets where you can discover cafes, bars and restaurants. Take a cruise down the Yarra River or maybe visit the riverside area of Southbank, which offers a mixture of bistros and bars. Hop on a tram and journey along the leafy wide streets avenues and then stop at the beachside area of St Kilda for a beer, just as the sun is setting.
Further afield the Great Ocean Road always attracts visitors with its beautiful eroded coastline and its famous limestone stacks, the dramatic ‘Twelve Apostles’. Or you might consider heading inland to the city of Bendigo to learn more about Australia’s gold rush era.
The Mornington Peninsula offers an escape from the city with seaside villages and beaches, vineyards and excellent restaurants. From here you can hop on a ferry and follow the course of the Great Ocean Road on water.
Further inland, the Grampians National Park offers some of the most beautiful landscapes to be found anywhere in Australia, as well as a number of terrific walking trails.
Wine buffs will want to visit the Yarra Valley and enjoy a leisurely lunch in a vineyard restaurant while wildlife enthusiasts will be keen to visit Phillip Island.