Melbourne (the second largest city) is Australia's cosmopolitan
epicentre. Attractively located on the the banks of the Yarra River
and the shores of Port Phillip, Melbourne is characterised by a
sophistication and a certain solidity of purpose,
and reputedly has some of the finest restaurants, art galleries
and designer shops in the country.
The best way to see Melbourne is on foot taking time to wonder though
the fantastic botanical gardens, watching the university rowers train
on the river or wondering up old cobbled streets and watching the street
theatre. If you tire of walking though the city tram runs right through the
centre of melbourne linking all the major attractions.
Much of Melbournes wealth was yielded by the gold rush back in 1851, and
with it Parliament House, the Treasury Building and the
exhibition buildings among others, were built. Attention to detail has left
Melbourne with wide boulevards, beautiful parks and gardens and
elegant Victorian & Edwardian buildings.
Melbourne has a reputation as a refined city, reflected in its
devotion to the arts. There are numerous cultural events during the
year and plenty of permanent exhibitions and art
galleries. The National Gallery of Victoria is revered throughout the
world for it's fine collection of traditional Australian paintings and
modern Aboriginal art works. The Victorian Arts Centre located on the
banks of the Yarra River is home to the Australian Ballet, Melbourne
Symphony Orchestra and the Victorian State Opera.
The city is not only enjoyed for it's cultural activities, historical
buildings and fine foods but also for the fantastic botanical gardens
and parks.
Sport is an important part of the Victorian psyche. The first
Melbourne cup was run at Flemington in 1861 and has since become an
institution, attracting annual crowds of about 100,000. As the host
city for the prestigious Australian Tennis Open, Melbourne attracts
large crowds several times a year. Not forgetting the Melbourne Cricket
Ground which is a venue for many sporting and entertainment fixtures.
Welcome to Inner Melbourne...
Click on the map or buttons below to find specific local information.
