1. Events, Arts & Culture
Be part of the grand slam action at the Australian Open, held every January in Melbourne. See the world’s top tennis players on court. Head to Phillip Island for the Motorcycle Grand Prix. Watch a game of Aussie Rules football or dress up for the Spring Racing Carnival. Take in an acclaimed stage show at the Regent or Princess Theatres in Melbourne.
2. Great Ocean Road
Drive the picturesque Great Ocean Road, which stretches across kilometres of rugged cliffs and golden beaches. Marvel at the limestone stack formations of the Twelve Apostles and see why it is one of the most famous attractions in Australia.
3. Luna Park
One of Melbourne’s most iconic attractions – Luna Park is the perfect place for a fun day out. Soak up the carnival atmosphere, as you ride the world’s oldest roller coaster, the Great Scenic Railway. Take a turn on the historical carousel and try your luck at the carnival games.
4. Shopping
Melbourne is undoubtedly the nation’s fashion and style capital. Visit the largest shopping destination in Australia at Chadstone. Chapel Street in South Yarra is a must for high-end fashion, while Melbourne’s laneways and arcades offer unique boutiques. Wander through the historic laneways for one-off vintage pieces.
5. Crown Melbourne
Live it up at Australia’s largest casino and see the impressive Gas Brigades Fire Show, held each evening. Watch as eight towers shoot out enormous fireballs, illuminating Southbank’s Yarra Promenade and the night sky.
6. Wineries
Victoria boasts some of Australia’s best wineries. Taste the superb range of wines at Yering Station in the Yarra Valley. Visit Jackalope Hotel on the Mornington Peninsula to enjoy fine cuisine and wine tastings overlooking beautiful Willow Creek Vineyard. Explore the unique works of art set against a stunning natural backdrop at Point Leo Estate’s Sculpture Park.
7. Sovereign Hill
Step back in time at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat and experience the area’s unique gold mining history. Pan for real gold at the Red Hill Gully Diggings and visit the 1850’s style shops, schools and hotels. See a gold pour and visit the famous gold mining exhibits.
8. Brighton Beach
Discover the bright and distinctive bathing boxes along the foreshore of Dendy Street Beach at Brighton. The wooden structures were built more than a century ago and have become an iconic landmark of the Brighton seaside.
9. Foodie Heaven
Melbourne has a passion for food. From degustation menus to laneway street eats, the city has it all. Indulge in a fine dining experience at acclaimed restaurant Attica. Or taste authentic Thai street food at Long Chim. Enjoy a cool cocktail at the Transit Rooftop Bar and check out the unique Ponyfish Island bar, set in the middle of the Yarra River.
10. Phillip Island
Visit The Nobbies and glimpse Seal Rocks, home to one of Australia’s largest fur seal colonies. Line the observation boardwalks nearby to see the famous penguin parade, which draws thousands of visitors from around the world each year.