In less than 200 years, Melbourne has grown from a small pioneering settlement surrounded by 6 million sheep to a major cosmopolis of nearly 4 million people who enjoy a harbourside lifestyle close to the beach in summer and the ski slopes in winter. Centrally located galleries, museums, and theatres ensure a vibrant cultural ambience, easily accessible sporting venues regularly play host to major events, and a thriving cafe and restaurant scene enhances the experience of exploring, shopping and dining in Melbourne’s easily navigated streets and laneways.
THE LAY OF THE LAND
Melbourne is set around the shores of Port Phillip Bay. The city itself sits on the northern banks of the Yarra River, about five kilometres from the bay. One glance at a map and it’s obvious that Melbourne is a planned city: a tidy, balanced grid of neatly angled streets. Extending around the bay are a number of inner suburbs, each with a distinct character and personality. A short tram ride from the city centre, Melbourne’s suburban neighbourhoods are a must-see for anyone who wishes to understand why Melbourne is consistently voted one of the world’s most liveable cities.
AROUND THE LANGHAM NEIGHBOURHOOD
As the luxurious centerpiece of the city’s arts, leisure and business district, anchored on the banks of the Yarra River, The Langham, Melbourne is only steps away from some of Victoria’s leading attractions. Theatres, art galleries, restaurants, sporting events and shopping are all a stone’s throw away. A range of transport options including river cruises and of course Melbourne’s famous trams, are all nearby and guarantee a memorable and rewarding visit to a truly enchanting city.
TAILOR-MADE TOURS
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SOUTHBANK – Home to the enchanting Langham hotel, the Southbank precinct is a unique leisure destination offering unparalleled views of the Yarra River and an eclectic mix of dining and shopping. Take a stroll along the promenade. Watch some street theatre or the passing parade. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at one of Southgate's award-winning restaurants or watch the city skyline light up as you savour some fine Australian wine.
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EXPLORE THE HIDDEN LANEWAYS – Cross the footbridge over the Yarra River to Flinders Street, and turn right along to Degraves Street, a laneway alive with small shops and both indoor and outdoor cafe dining venues. Further along is the historic Victorian Block Arcade, with charming little shops and hole-in-the-wall establishments. The Royal Arcade is equally lovely, and contains still more to intrigue visitors – from handmade chocolates to a purveyor of magical wares and spells. At night, the laneways transform into a myriad of bars and clubs to suit every taste.
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CITY CIRCLE TRAMS – Just across the Yarra River from The Langham, Melbourne, the City Circle trams depart at regular intervals and stop at each major intersection on a route circling the CBD. The city circle trams are free for use and stop at such prominent destinations as the Royal Exhibition Building, the Melbourne Museum, Docklands Stadium and the famous Victoria Markets.
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INDULGE IN A NIGHT AT THE THEATRE – Dozens of theatrical productions are staged each week in Melbourne, ranging from mainstream musicals to experimental works. Catch a blockbuster at the beautifully-restored Regent and Princess theatre’s or head to the Arts Centre and Malthouse to catch high-quality local productions.
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EUREKA SKYDECK – The Eureka Tower, next door to The Langham, Melbourne offers awe-inspiring views from the highest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere. Skydeck 88 can give you the world’s only “Edge Experience” – a switchable glass cube which slides out from the building… with you inside!
OTHER LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
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GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS – Melbourneboasts an exceptional collection of museums, many of which world-renowned displays whilst the city’s public galleries house some of Australia’s most important colonial and contemporary works:
National Gallery of Victoria – Since the NGV opened in St Kilda Road in 1968, its collection has doubled in size to more than 70,000 works of art. A truly iconic Melbourne building, the gallery has been totally redesigned to house one of the most impressive collections in the Southern Hemisphere.
Melbourne Museum – A broad-based State museum with a national andinternational focus,Melbourne Museum's exhibitions and events cover the natural and physical sciences as well as social history and cultures.
The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia – At Federation Square is the home ofAustralian art,with superb collections of Australian indigenous and non-indigenous art from the colonial period to the present day.
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YARRA VALLEY – Just under an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is famous for its homegrown wine, fresh food and breathtaking scenery. The birthplace of Victorian winegrowing is now home to over 55 wineries, most of which offer cellar-door tastings and sales. Many are as serious about food as they are about their harvest, matching the wine they make with local produce in restaurants located in beautiful vineyards.
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WERRIBEE RANGE ZOO – Located only 30 minutes away from Melbourne, Werribee Open Range Zoo is full of amazing animals living in a wide, open savannah. Discover grazing rhinos, giraffes and zebras, see cheeky monkeys and cheetahs at play and get close to a pride of lions.
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THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD – Experience one of the world’s most breathtaking coastal drives. The journey along the Great Ocean Road features huge cliffs, raging surf, tranquil bays, lush rainforests, towering rock stacks and fascinating wildlife. Discover the dramatic rock sculptures of the Twelve Apostles, beautiful waterfalls and a spectacular treetop walk through the Otways rainforests.
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MELBOURNE CRICKET GROUND – For the true Melbourne sporting experience, head to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) to watch an Australian Football League (AFL) game. Experience the excitement of one of Melbourne’s favourite sports – even an ordinary match can attract a large crowd of vocal, yet peaceful, supporters. Cricket in the summer also attracts capacity crowds.
LOCAL CUSTOMS
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Greetings are casual, often consisting simply of a handshake and a smile.
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Most restaurants (including many of the more upmarket venues) do not require their patrons to wear a jacket and tie as Melbourne dining is generally relatively informal. If in doubt, simply consult your Concierge.
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Australian humour tends to be quite dry and irreverent, even toward governmental institutions and Australians themselves. This may be reflected in conversations overheard on public transport, around tourist attractions and in bars and restaurants.
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Sport features very prominently in the Melbourne psyche. Accordingly, it may surprise some visitors that the world news may be located further back in the newspapers, behind football, cricket, rugby and tennis news and results.
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