Joanna James
As one of Australia's most dynamic tourist hubs, Melbourne welcomes visitors from around the globe. Here are some must-experience highlights in this vibrant city Down Under.
Visitors to Melbourne should first and foremost head to St. Kilda for a beach vacation like no other. A veritable hub for fitness freaks, beach lovers and families, this affordable beach haven in Melbourne is ideal for those in search of rest and relaxation in a stunning setting. Don't forget to catch the sunset and enjoy the exciting rides in Luna Park while a day at the St Kilda Sea Baths is also a must for first-time visitors. Hosting many a music festival, travellers heading to the area will also find an array of seafood restaurants and bars lining Carlisle Street and Acland Street.
Also known as "Fitzy," this highly bohemian and artistic part of the city is an area all tourists must explore during a holiday in Melbourne. Known for its eclectic collection of restaurants and bars, the street art scene alone makes this neighbourhood the best thing about Melbourne for the artistically inclined. Brunswick Street is the area's designated nightclub hub while shopaholics will also find some interesting designs and boutiques down Gertrude Street. Don't forget to stop by Fitzroy Gardens for some quiet time after wining and dining in this artsy Mecca renowned for its cafes.
Regarded as Melbourne's own wine precinct, Yarra Valley is another area of Melbourne that's worthy of deeper exploration. Offering visitors a welcome respite from city life, the vineyard laden landscapes of this region is ideal for a daytime excursion. Home to more than 80 wine cellars, it is the perfect venue to sign up for a wine tasting tour. Art galleries, as well as breweries, are also commonplace in Yarra Valley where visitors can purchase delectable vintages to take home as souvenirs.
Travellers walking around the Melbourne CBD will at one time or another come across Federation Square but the landmark is no ordinary location in the city. As a public square, the venue has served as the cultural heart of civic life in Melbourne with countless events and highlights taking place throughout the year. Home to its own range of speciality shops, restaurants and bars, some of the key points of interest in "Fed Square" include the Ian Potter Centre.
As an integral part of the city's shipping sphere, the Melbourne Docklands is a harbourside highlight tourists should discover during a vacation in the city. Home to the vibrant Melbourne Star observation wheel, the sheer volume of activities available at the docklands makes the area a hotspot for travellers from around the world. Offering spectacular views of Melbourne, some of the major attractions at the docklands include the V8 racing simulator. Seafood lovers and shopaholics will also find plenty to do in this part of town due to a large number of shops and eateries occupying the locale. Travellers based in hotels near Etihad Stadium the likes of Oaks On Market or any similar rest will have easy access to the docklands.
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