Melbourne Vacations

1. Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

On the southern shores of Yarra River are the Royal Botanic Gardens—89 acres of leafy plants and pop up pools of water that feed irreplaceable species that are today protected. Education is also a central theme, with a belief that life can be sustained through plant life. With over 8,500 individual species and firm favorite tours such as the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, it’s a no-brainer why these gardens are so popular.

2. Laneways Tour

Explore these colorful, pedestrianized cobblestone streets to see the artistic side of Melbourne. The Laneways offer urban art and hip-vibes. Each lane has a life of its own and contains a trove of jazzing bars, cafes, and funky retailers. Laneway Tours present an opportunity to get to the heart of this full-blooded cultural place of happenings.

3. Eureka Skydeck 88

Look up to see one of Melbourne’s edgier attractions, Eureka Skydeck 88. Hanging 1,000 feet above the city, enter The Edge, a glass cube that exits the building as you stand on its encased surface provides panoramic views of the city.

4. Yarra River

The heart of Melbourne, the river is the focus for numerous, outstanding events including the famous Moomba festival, the Melbourne Festival, several rowing regattas, as well as Dragon Boat Festivals. Board one of the many river boats to get a special view of Melbourne and to easily visit attractions such as Melbourne Olympic Park, the Royal Botanical Gardens and Herring Island Park. Alternatively, simply relax along the riverfront, or enjoy the many trails and pathways catering for cyclists, walkers and joggers.

5. St. Kilda Beach

A beachside playground with a palm-lined boardwalk, St. Kilda Beach offers everything from stylish steakhouses to lively cocktail bars. As well as providing a great nightlife scene, there are plenty of sunshine activities up for grabs. This neighborhood is Melbourne’s best-known, and it has a charm and hipster feel unlike any other.

6. Flinders Street Station

Completed in 1909, Flinders Street Station is a cultural icon of Melbourne. The art nouveau style, with its prominent dome, arched entrance, tower, and clocks is one of the city's most recognisable landmarks. The local saying, "I'll meet you under the clocks" refers to the row of clocks above the main entrance. Guided tours of the breathtakingly beautiful, disused, ballroom of the station are highly recommended.

7. Melbourne Cricket Ground and National Sports Museum

Visit one of the most famous stadiums in Australia: the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The history of the stadium dates back to 1853; the interactive and integrated National Sports Museum is rich with well-presented sporting history. Take some time to learn about Australia’s love affair with sports such as cricket and Ozzy rules football.

8. Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Enjoy an interactive ocean adventure by the waters of Yarra River. State-of-the-art displays give this aquarium a modern touch, making it engaging for people of all ages. Enter an underwater exhibit and be blown sideways by themed zones that bring you closer to sharks, penguins, and the setting of shipwrecked explorers on the search for lost treasures. Less