Guide Note

Melbourne, Australia’s second most populated city, is the capital of the state of Victoria. Located around Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne is one of the country’s centers for commerce, industry and culture and it’s even referred to as Australia’s sporting and cultural capital. ¹ The 1956 Summer Olympics were held here.

Fast Facts

1. Country: Australia
2. Language Spoken: English
3. Currency: Australian dollar
4. Population: 3.8 million ²
5. Country Code: 61
6. Time Zone: AEST
7. Climate: 68°F (summer), 52°F (winter) ³

1. Melbourne Aquarium: Smaller than Sydney's aquarium, this one is still exciting to see. With three levels, a barrier reef exhibition and an enormous walk-through tank, the Melbourne Aquarium is a sight to see. ⁴
2. Old Melbourne Gaol: Leave kids under 12 at home for this one. The Old Melbourne Gaol is a 19th century prison, where approximately 135 hangings took place, including that of Australian folk hero, Ned Kelly. The jail has been closed since 1929. Night tours are also available. ⁴
3. Melbourne Museum: Australia's largest and one of its most interesting museums, the Melbourne Museum includes a real blue whale skeleton, an indoor rainforest and many live exhibitions including cockroaches and ants. ⁴
4. Melbourne Zoo: The oldest zoo in the world, the Melbourne Zoo is home to approximately 3,000 animals. Most are in natural settings rather than cages. ⁴
5. Queen Victoria Market: A large outdoor market where you can buy anything from pets to clothes. The food is especially good. ⁴
6. Rippon Lea Estate: Take a guided tour of this old Victorian home, an example of old-money in Melbourne. Construction on the home began in 1868 and was commissioned by socialite Sir Frederick Thomas Sargood. ⁴
7. St. Patrick's Cathedral: This Roman Catholic cathedral was closely tied to Irish immigrants, who fled to Australia during the potato famine. There is a statue of Irish patriot, Daniel O'Connell, in front of the cathedral. ⁴
8. St. Paul's Cathedral: This cathedral, built between 1880 and 1892, has the second highest spire of any Anglican church. It is famous for its beautiful interior and for its organ built by T.S. Lewis. ⁴
9. National Gallery of Victoria, International: Opened in 2003, this gallery features some of the country's best collections of international art. There are four Gainsboroughs and four Constables and works by Bonnard, Delacroix, Van Dyck, El Greco, Monet, Manet, Magritte and Rembrandt. ⁴

If planning a trip, please see Melbourne Hotels, Melbourne Restaurants and Melbourne Tours.

• How to Book a Cheap Flight
• How To Book a Cheap Hotel Room
• Packing Tips