Melbourne
Melbourne is a city with one eye fixed on the past and another on the future. The capital city of the state of Victoria, it is known for its passion for food, coffee, fashion and art.
Stroll down Collins Street to see Victorian-era churches, art deco hotels and daring post-modern structures. Close by is Bourke Street Mall, where trams trundle through a boulevard of heritage-listed shops.
Meander through the scenic grounds and admire the exhibition hall at Carlton Gardens. At nearby Federation Square, the collision of past and present continues. Angular modern buildings stand in contrast to neighboring Flinders Street Station and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
While you are at “Fed Square,” visit the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) to learn about film history and try out digital technology. Spot the friendly ghost at the Princess Theatre. Or relive ancient voyages at the Immigration Museum.
Cross the Yarra River to explore Southbank’s restaurants and bars, the National Gallery of Victoria and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Take the elevator to Skydeck 88 in the Eureka Tower for breathtaking views of the city.
Jump aboard one of Melbourne’s iconic trams to explore the suburbs. Not far from downtown is Carlton, where you’ll find the Melbourne Museum and the espresso bars of “Little Italy” on Lygon Street. Pack your swimming costume and head to the seaside suburb of St. Kilda. After a dip in Port Phillip Bay, browse the suburb’s famous cake shops and vintage stores before heading to the bright lights and thrill rides of Luna Park.
Stay overnight in one of St. Kilda’s boutique hotels then rise early for a sunrise walk along the coastline to the brightly colored “bathing boxes” of Brighton Beach. Have your photo taken beside these heritage-listed structures, a perfect memento of this stylish city.