Melbourne

Melbourne is the effortlessly cool, slightly brooding cousin in the Australian family of cities. Its creative pulse is undeniable – you'll find it in the street art that covers entire buildings, the obsession with perfect coffee, and the incredible live music scene. It's a city that invites you to get lost in its labyrinth of laneways, each one hiding a new bar, boutique, or gallery.

First, the food scene is out of this world; it's a mix of cultures that results in some of the most creative and delicious food you'll find anywhere. Secondly, the city lives and breathes art and culture, from the National Gallery of Victoria to the ever-changing canvas of its laneways. Lastly, it's the sporting capital of Australia; the energy in the city during an AFL match or the Australian Open is absolutely electric. It's a place with a distinct, addictive personality that just gets under your skin.

Melburnians are a friendly, albeit slightly reserved at first, bunch. They're stylish, passionate about their city's culture (especially coffee and footy), and come from all corners of the globe. Melbourne is incredibly multicultural, with people from over 200 countries, which is reflected in the amazing diversity of its food and neighborhoods. English is the main language, but you'll hear snippets of conversations in countless others as you walk around.

The food in Melbourne is a highlight, period. The coffee culture is legendary; you must order a 'Magic' (a specific type of coffee) to feel like a local. The brunch scene is also a serious affair. Beyond that, you'll find some of the best dumplings in the city's laneways and amazing Italian food on Lygon Street in Carlton. Essential must-try things include the flaky croissants from Lune Croissanterie, a classic Aussie meat pie, and fresh seafood from the Queen Victoria Market.

Melbourne's infrastructure is solid but has its quirks. The public transport, especially the tram network in the inner city, is fantastic for getting around. The free tram zone in the CBD is a huge plus. Internet is generally fast and reliable, and you'll find modern amenities everywhere. The one thing you have to prepare for is the weather, which can famously change in an instant – they're not kidding when they say "four seasons in one day." It's something you just have to embrace as part of the experience.

You'll almost certainly be flying into Melbourne Airport (MEL), also known as Tullamarine Airport. From there, the easiest and most direct way to the city center is the SkyBus. It runs express to Southern Cross Station right in the CBD, and the journey takes about 30-45 minutes. A one-way adult ticket costs around AUD $24.60 when purchased online. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are also readily available, but they'll cost you a fair bit more, starting from around $70 AUD.

Melbourne's public transport is dominated by its iconic trams, along with trains and buses. The Metro Tunnel, opening in 2025, significantly expands the train network with new underground stations, easing congestion and improving access to key areas like Parkville and St Kilda Road. You'll need to get a Myki card, which is a reusable smartcard you top up with money to pay for your fares. You can buy one at 7-Eleven stores or major stations. The card itself costs AUD $6. Remember to 'touch on' when you board. For trams in the inner city, you don't need to 'touch off', but for trains and buses, you must. There's a daily fare cap of AUD $11.00 for full fare travel across the network, or AUD $7.60 on weekends and public holidays, making it cost-effective for multiple trips. The central part of the city is also very walkable, and exploring the laneways on foot is a must-do.

Melbourne is generally a safe city, but like any major urban center, it has its challenges and areas where you should exercise caution. While serious violent crime is not common for tourists, petty theft can occur in crowded areas. More notably, especially around major transport hubs like Flinders Street Station and along thoroughfares like Elizabeth Street in the CBD, you will encounter visible homelessness, drug use, and individuals experiencing severe mental health issues. The city has an ongoing issue with overflowing rubbish bins and a persistent smell of urine in some laneways and underpasses, particularly in the CBD. At night, while main streets are generally well-lit and busy, some areas, including parts of St Kilda's nightlife district, can get a bit rowdy. It's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, stick to well-trafficked areas, and use common sense, especially if walking alone after dark. Always be mindful of trams when crossing streets, as they are quiet and can approach quickly.