It’s Australia’s culture capital and most liveable city, and if that isn’t enough it’s also the sporting capital – hosting both the AFL grand final and Australian Open, amongst other events. If those reasons alone won’t get you on a plane, train, or automobile heading for Victoria, here are some other reasons why you should visit Melbourne.
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Coffee
The beans might be grown in the same places the rest of Australia sources, but the baristas and cafes are bred in Melbourne and have a distinctive extra quality that sets them apart from the rest of the nation. Perhaps it’s that Melburnians have a more delicate, refined taste or appreciation for it, or perhaps there are more out-of-work artists in Melbourne who make coffee making an art-form. Whatever it is, mornings are easier in Melbourne.
The Trams
Melbourne is known for its trams and they are a delight to travel in and out of the city on. They are a reminder of the old days and the incredible history Melbourne has, booming off the back of the gold rush and being populated with people from all around the world. Do yourself a favor and book a Melbourne serviced apartment near a tram line so you can make your way around town on the tramlines.
Catch the tram into Federation Square and see the distinctive architecture housing art galleries and museums right beside the beautiful Flinders Street Train Station. While you’re there take a trip by the Yarra River to the entertainment and restaurant district of Southbank.
The Laneways
There have been attempts to replicate these laneways in both Sydney and Brisbane, but Melbourne did them first and still do them better. Navigating your way through the funky Melbourne laneways is an experience in itself and worth the time to walk them with a tourist’s gaze; observing and soaking in all the amazing artwork that lines the laneways. It really is something special.
The Markets
Melbourne’s identity as the culture capital shines through when you're wandering through the Prahran or Queen Victoria Markets. Haggle for some hidden treasures or just eat your way through the markets with diverse treats from around the world. Whatever your fancy, you’re bound to find it at a Melbourne market.
The Sport
Being Australia, it does feel like the sport needs to be mentioned twice. Victoria is the only forward-thinking state in Australia that observes a public holiday for the Melbourne Cup – everywhere else the public is subject to the mood and interest of corporate leaders who must be heartless to not allow for a half day of work. And not only is Melbourne Cup day a public holiday, but so is the Friday before the AFL Grand Final.
The Food
Melbourne is a great food destination. Nearly every cuisine is represented in Melbourne with quality restaurants and cafes throughout the city. From the Vue De Monde to Attica, the restaurants of Chinatown and the exceptional dining along Flinders Lane, Melbourne will treat you night after night. The strong dining culture means that the restaurants are accessible and reasonably priced, making dining throughout the day a joy.
After you’ve spent some time in Melbourne, the rest of Victoria has a lot to offer, so stay on and take a trip along the Great Ocean Road, or visit some Yarra Valley Wineries, Gippsland, Ballarat, and the Snow Country. There is so much to see and do in Melbourne and its surrounding area, you may just want to move there!
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