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.
