Destination Melbourne
Melbourne is Australia's second largest city with over 4 million residents and is the capital of the state of Victoria, known as the Garden State. Melbourne is often described as vibrant, modern and cosmopolitan, with a thriving art and theatre scene, many galleries and museums, great shopping, cultural activities, world class restaurants and the home of many great sporting events. However, the old and new world live side by side with historic sandstone Victorian era buildings standing next to glass and steel highrises. It is this 'charm' which sets it apart from all other cities in Australia.
The Yarra River divides the city in two halves with the centre of the city on the north bank of the river.
Melbourne’s Climate
Melbourne has a reputation for its changeable weather. A tip for any visitor is to be prepared for anything – take an umbrella and wear layers that can be worn or removed as needed!
As a general rule, Melbourne enjoys a temperate climate with warm to hot summers, mild and sometimes balmy springs and autumns, and cool winters.
While Melbourne has a reputation for rain, the city actually receives less rainfall than either Brisbane or Sydney.
Melbourne is an excellent place to see the seasons change. In summer, most people head out to visit our golden beaches. In autumn, experience the glorious foliage of the many European-style parks that fringe the CBD. In winter, Melburnians enjoy the warmth of cosy cafes and bars. Spring is a time for renewal – a great time to head back into our parks and revel in our beautiful gardens.
Melbourne Shopping Hours
As a general guide, trading hours for city shops are:
Saturday to Wednesday – 10am-5pm
Thursday – 10am-7pm
Friday – 10am-9pm
Hours of operation often vary between shops and areas.
Getting to Melbourne
Melbourne has a number of airports which provide easy access for both domestic and international visitors.
Melbourne Airport
Melbourne Airport is located approximately 25km north-west of the Melbourne's CBD on the Tullamarine Freeway - further information on how to get to and from the airport is provided here
Taxis
Taxis are available from three designated taxi ranks on the ground level concourse of Melbourne Airport. These are located outside Terminal 1 (Qantas and Jetstar), Terminal 2 (International) and Terminal 3 (Virgin Australia and Regional Express). Taxi ranks are clearly signed and manned by Melbourne Airport traffic coordinators.
Taxis provide two main services at the airport, a walk-up service from the designated taxi ranks, and a pre-booked transfer service. READ MORE
Buses
SkyBus offers an express bus service from the airport to the city centre. This service operates 24/7, including all public holidays. Buses run from every 10 minutes throughout the day. READ MORE
Avalon Airport
Avalon Airport is located 55 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD and is an easy, 40-minute toll-free drive. More information on Avalon is provided here
Taxis
Avalon Airport has a taxi drop-off and departure rank directly outside the terminal.
Buses
Bus services operate both to and from Melbourne and to and from Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula. All buses depart immediately outside the Arrival Hall.
Sita Coaches operates a bus service between Avalon Airport and Southern Cross Station
Getting Around Melbourne
Metlink is the face of public transport in Melbourne for Melbourne’s trains, trams and buses. Use the MetLink Journey Planner to help you with all your needs.
Car Rental - from Melbourne and Avalon Airports
Use this link to find the best deals on car hire.
Melbourne Visitor Services
Melbourne Visitor Centre
Federation Square
Corner Swanston and Flinders streets
+61 3 9658 9658
tourism@melbourne.vic.gov.au
www.thatsmelbourne.com.au
Melbourne Greeter Service
Free personal orientations of the city with a local volunteer who shares your interest and speaks your language are available seven days a week. Bookings must be made three days in advance.
t|+61 3 9658 9658
City Ambassadors and Info Booth
City Ambassadors are distinctive in their red uniforms. They can offer assistance with directions, public transport enquiries, events, and general questions about Melbourne.
Wherever you are from, our friendly volunteers can help you! They are approachable, friendly and equipped with extensive local knowledge.
City Ambassadors can be mainly found along Swanston Street
at corners such as Flinders Street and Bourke Street.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Saturday - 10am to 4pm. Sunday - noon to 3pm (excluding Good Friday and Christmas Day)