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The second largest city in Australia, Melbourne draws a lot of attention. Located at the head of Port Phillip Bay, this city has a lot to offer to the college traveler. No matter what time of year you decide to visit the weather is always gorgeous and there are plenty of things to see and do. This cultural capital is full of museums, parks, galleries, and theaters. There is also a large ethnic population including those from Greece, Italy, and Vietnam. And this is only part of what makes Melbourne such a popular destination. Where else can you go half way around the world to enjoy a different culture in a familiar setting? Melbourne has it all and is calling your name.

Melbourne Pictures

Things to do in Melbourne

Visit NewQuay, Docklands, and Federation Square. They are the number one priorities when visiting here. The city center is where you will find the typical tourist things such as boutiques, cafes, stores, and old architecture. AFL World is Melbourne’s incredible football team. If you come during the season you must buy a ticket to a game. It is a lot of fun and very different from any sports you are used to at home. Close by, Carlton and Parkville are alive with entertainment and excitement. They make for excellent day excursions. Go to the beach or walk along the boardwalk. Check out the Melbourne museum with a large variety of animals and Lygon Street, which has good Italian food. And if you get a chance go to the Parliament of Queen Victoria. It is quite the sight.

Find things to do in Melbourne

Nightlife in Melbourne

Southgate has a lot of good bars. If you are into that kind of scene there are a few pub crawl tours. They meet at one spot and spend the night going around to some of the top bars in the area. It is a good way to meet people and get out there. Comic’s Lounge is in this area as well. For a small fee you can watch a fun comedy show or take in a local venue concert. The drinks are reasonably priced too. Block Arcade is a fun alternative to the typical bar scene. If you and your friends are looking for something a little more low key for a night head over to the arcade. You can still grab a drink at some cafes and have a great time all night long.

Dining in Melbourne

Southgate and Yarma have a wealth of restaurants and good digs. There are also plenty of bars for a nice transition from dinner to night time pub crawling. If you are a food connoisseur then you have arrived at the right place. Melbourne is known around the world and specifically Australia for its incredible food. Being right on the water doesn’t hurt its amazing seafood either. Everything here is fresh and most places are made to order. Go along the docks to get a really incredible meal. St. Kilda has a great variety of food and restaurants if you are looking for a good selection. There is also a great opportunity to have African food. Since people have migrated to Melbourne from various regions in Africa the food has come with them. It has made a nice addition to the already varied and popular cuisine.

Shopping in Melbourne

The Queen Victoria Market is the place to go for all the typical unique and funky items that you don’t find in department stores. Get some souvenirs to bring home with you or as gifts for friends and family. They have everything here and you can find stuff you wouldn’t think to pick up that are special and unique to Australia. Collins Street and Brunswick Street are worth stopping by if you are in the mood to walk around and window shop. There are many stores and a wide variety. Although don’t expect a Paris or Milan if you are in search of designer duds.

Melbourne travel tips

• Stay away from the Red Light district at night.
• Always keep wallets and purses close to you in crowded areas.
• There are designated ’safety zones’ at stations at night to look out for.