Destination
Feel the City – Melbourne
Victoria is home to the Great Ocean Road, the Phillip Island Penguin Parade and many more iconic Australian experiences, all easily explored from its capital Melbourne.
Melbourne
Melbourne is where Australia keeps its coffee, its galleries and its headline sporting events. It’s also widely regarded as the country’s culture capital and one of the world’s most livable cities. A place where fashion, music and food come together on the same hand-crafted ceramic plate. But there’s more to Melbourne than laneways and strong flat whites. The city’s suburbs could keep any shopaholic busy for weeks, and many of Victoria’s best natural attractions are only a couple of hours (or so) away by car.
Victoria
You can visit Phillip Island and see the penguins, explore squeaky sand beaches at Wilsons Promontory, or head north for wine tasting and in-depth country pie research. If you’ve never seen Apostles made from stone or tee’d off with a gallery of ‘roos’, just rent a car and head down the Great Ocean Road. Stand in the shadows of sandstone mountains, surrounded by wildflowers and wallabies in the nature-packed Grampians National Park. Or head to Bendigo for award-winning fine dining. That’s the beauty of Victoria. No matter where you go, you’re never far from good food, good company and amazing views.
Things to do
There are many things to do in and around Melbourne and Victoria, why not try:
- Wander the iconic laneways and arcades, discovering hidden cafés, bars, street art and boutique shopping.
- Take in world‑class theatre, live music or comedy in Australia’s cultural capital.
- Watch the sun set over the city from a rooftop bar, or enjoy riverside dining along Southbank.
- Explore Melbourne’s sports precinct, from the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) to Rod Laver Arena.
- Taste your way through the city’s renowned coffee culture, multicultural food scene and award‑winning restaurants.
- Drive one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes along the Great Ocean Road.
- Indulge in a Yarra Valley winery or cellar door tour, just an hour from the city.
- Discover native wildlife, coastal scenery and historic villages on Phillip Island.
- Step back in time exploring the grand architecture and gardens of regional Victoria.
Melbourne Laneways & Street Art
Melbourne’s laneways are famous around the world for their ever‑changing street art, tucked‑away cafés and atmospheric bars. From Hosier and AC/DC Lane to the elegant Royal Arcade and Block Arcade, these intimate spaces capture the city’s creative soul and are best explored on foot with no fixed agenda.
Arts, Culture & Theatres
From major exhibitions at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) to intimate independent theatres and large‑scale productions, Melbourne offers an unparalleled arts scene. Whether you’re drawn to visual art, ballet, opera, contemporary performance or live music, there is always something on — day or night.
Yarra Valley
Just under an hour from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine regions. Rolling vineyards, cellar doors, distilleries and artisanal produce make it an ideal day trip. Many tours also include scenic countryside, gourmet lunches and chocolate or cheese tastings.
Great Ocean Road
One of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road winds past cliffs, beaches and rainforest before reaching the iconic Twelve Apostles. Whether tackled as a long day trip or an overnight adventure, it offers unforgettable scenery at every turn.
Phillip Island
Home to rugged coastlines, sandy beaches and abundant wildlife, Phillip Island is best known for the nightly Penguin Parade, where little penguins return ashore at sunset. The island also offers coastal walks, surf beaches and easy access to nature.
Southbank & The Yarra River
Stretching along the river’s edge, Southbank is a lively hub of dining, bars and entertainment. Take a leisurely riverside stroll, enjoy a river cruise, or settle in for dinner with skyline views — particularly magical in the evening.
