Melbourne is the capital and largest city of the southeastern state of Victoria. It is also the second largest city in Australia. It has a population of approximately 3.9 million people, who are multicultural and sports-mad as well. The city is located at the head of the Port Philip Bay. Melbourne is often regarded as the cultural capital of Australia.
Melbourne has everything on the area of arts, commerce, education, industry, sports and tourism. It features Victorian and contemporary architecture, expansive parks and gardens, extensive shopping, museums, galleries and theaters. The soap Neighbors is filmed in this city. The multicultural society offers a great diversity. They share a common love for sports, as the city is home to Aussie Rules (AFL) Football, the Australian Tennis Open, the Australian Formula One Grand Prix and the Melbourne Cup and the national horse event Spring Racing Carnival. This last event evens stops the whole nation.
The city center is of most interest for tourists. It offers bars, cafes, boutiques and department stores. Nice green parks are around to flee the busy life. You can’t miss the Eureka Tower, Rialto Towers, Parliament House of Victoria, the prominent Southgate with its lively restaurants and bars and the Queen Victoria Market. Almost everything in the center is accessible by foot. Other interesting activities are visits to the Comic’s Lounge, the St Francis Church, Grampians National Park, The Great Ocean Road and Philip Island.
Travelers to Melbourne are required a valid passport and visa. Citizens of America, Canada and Europe will automatically after application receive a tourist visa that is valid for 12 months. It permits multiple entries into Australia for a stay of up to 3 months on each visit. As for the weather, Melbourne is known for changing weather conditions.
