The Ultimate Guide to the City of Melbourne for Expats
During the gold rush of the 1850s, Melbourne became one of the richest cities in the world. Retaining the luxurious charm of the 19th century gold discoveries in the Victorian countryside, Melbourne remains one of the world’s most liveable cities.
This coastal capital of Victoria is rich in picturesque landscapes, nature and wildlife. With thriving and well-preserved nature reserves, conservation parks, and history bubbling through the ripples of the Yarra River, it’s not hard to imagine what a trip to Melbourne would be like.
With so much to see and enjoy, a thought like ‘What to do in Melbourne’ will never cross your mind. It would be a mix of history with a touch of nature wrapped in the vibrant culture and picturesque skyline of this Australian city.
Take a look at this quick guide to the city:
Secret alleys of Melbourne
The backstreets of Melbourne have hidden magic that resonates everywhere. It is a melting pot of culture, art, shops, bars and more. Head to the Somerset place for a haircut or a pint of beer. Tattersalls Lane is a foodie’s delight, Crossley Street is lined with trendy cafes, Presgrave and Niagara Lane are full of artwork and street art, and Howey Lane is for fashionistas.
Take a walk around the Yarra River Precinct
The beautiful Yarra River is Melbourne’s point of origin. It is the birthplace of the city. Amazing wine trails along the river, cruises to Flemington Racecourse, the Dandenong Ranges and camping at Gembrook are a hit on every itinerary. The Yarra River Colonnade has surprisingly cheap serviced accommodation in Melbourne.
Enjoy the Music and Arts festival
The city has a culturally diverse music scene where even the streets are filled with street performers and buskers. There are plenty of entertainment opportunities here for art and music lovers. This winter, Melbourne’s music and theater scene is abuzz with performances and concerts.
The Great Organ Concert of the City Council is waiting for you and it is free. The celebrated Wizard of Oz classic musical theater is turning heads at the Regent Theater through July 29. Those who are interested in the arts and exhibitions can discover contemporary and modern art at MoMA, organized by NGV, it is open from June 9 to October 10.
For a unique experience head to the Art House, where Rabble has staged a live installation on the journey through childhood and adulthood under the theme ‘Lone’, from June 8-17. Those with a taste for history can explore the Melbourne Museum’s ‘Vikings Beyond Legend’ exhibition, running until 26 August.
Take in the beauty of Australia’s landscapes, wildlife and nature reserves
With a rich coastline along Australia’s southeastern mountain range, Melbourne has an extravagant natural treasure. Millions of years old, the 12 Apostles on the Great Ocean Road are a magnificent collection of limestone cliffs that form a garland along the Victorian coastline. Princess Margaret Rose Cave is a limestone cave in Mumbanar. It has beautiful formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
Take a trip to Phillip Island for delightful glimpses of penguins and koalas. A camping and canoeing tour of the Murray River is a great way to explore the rich wildlife and sandy beaches of the South Coast.
Some of the famous national parks in Melbourne that are worth a visit are Mungo National Park, Dandenong Ranges, Great Otway National Park, Wilsons Promontory and many more.
Hangout on the best beaches and coastal beauty
Melbourne’s vast coastline has many wonderfully designed beaches and coastlines. Gippsland Beach stretches a whopping 90 miles and is the longest beach in the world. The Mornington Peninsula has beautiful sandy beaches where you can enjoy a sunny day of golf, wine, hot springs, and surfing. Sorrento, St. Andrews and Fingal Victoria are the best.
Victorian Aboriginal Cultural Tours
Take a journey into Australian culture and heritage by visiting the area inhabited by Australia’s earliest inhabitants. A heritage walk in the Royal Botanic Gardens will familiarize you with the Kulin nation. Learn about the history of Birrarung Marr with the Koorie Heritage Trust’s Cultural Walk. Wurundjeri’s cultural fix and Brambuk’s Six Season’s Culture tour in Grampian National Park are also great.
