If you have Australia on your travel bucket list the chances are there will be a trip to Sydney listed right underneath. This makes sense because it’s the country’s largest city and features many great tourist attractions including iconic architecture like the Sydney Opera House. However, Melbourne, Australia’s second largest city, is also well worth a visit.
8 reasons to visit Melbourne.
1. It’s less expensive than Sydney. Because it’s in the spotlight, accommodations, restaurants, and attractions in Sydney cost more. On the other hand, Melbourne wants to draw you in during any time of the year and you’ll find that accommodation and attractions are more budget friendly.
2. It’s a sports Mecca. The city centre features venues that host Australian Rules Rugby, Cricket, and Tennis. Melbourne is also the home to the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Australian Open.
3. For skiiing. Lucas Webb from YarraValleyWineryToursMelbourne.com.au says that Melbourne is an excellent winter vacation spot for keen skiers who are looking for affordable new resorts. Does that mean snow in Australia? Yes!
The Victorian Alps are approximately a three-hour drive from Melbourne and feature a vibrant ski season. Meanwhile, because it’s situated on the coast, Melbourne has a mild climate year-round. So, you can go from skiing on snow to water in a few hours’ time.
4. To see penguins. Some 90 minutes by car from Melbourne is Phillip Island National Park. It’s the home to the nightly “Penguin Parade”. This ticketed event allows you to see penguins return home to one of the largest colonies in Australia.
5. Free city travel and attractions. Thanks to the City Circle tram, visitors can travel to the city’s numerous attractions for free. In addition, you can stop at many locations that don’t require a fee to enter. These include the National Gallery of Victoria and the Melbourne Library.
6. The laneways. Another free attraction in Melbourne is all the street art you can view, particularly in the city’s laneways. Similar to those in other locations, such as Cairo, Melbourne’s laneways have been revitalised over the years to feature trendy cafes, small shops and wide spaces for street artists to show their skills.
7. Great Ocean Road. This 243km stretch of road is the equivalent of California’s Pacific Coast Highway. The journey takes you along limestone cliffs and through small towns, fishing villages, and even a rainforest filled with waterfalls.
8. Australia’s culture. Where Sydney is the business hub, Melbourne is the country’s cultural capital. Art galleries, museums, live music venues and locations like Her Majesty’s Theatre are filled daily with locals and tourists alike. They may feature international stars or local favourites.
Melbourne might well offer you a lot more than you imagined and could be a great addition to your trip to Australia.
