Often ranked among the world’s most livable cities, cosmopolitan Melbourne is home to some of Australia’s best fashion, art, sports and food. Strong waves of immigration from southern Europe and Asia make this one of most diverse cities in the region, a fact happily reflected in the local culinary scene. Melbourne oozes Old World charm with its sidewalk cafés, Victorian architecture, wide boulevards and regal parks, yet the city’s youthful energy is especially evident in its vibrant street art and innovative cultural events like the annual Fringe Festival. Even if you don’t make it to the festival, revel in the domed beauty of the State Library, venture through the roads to admire public art, or join the raucous crowd at Telstra Stadium for a match of Australian Rules football. If this is your first visit to Melbourne, it’s not likely to be your last.
