Melbourne, Victoria
Guide to Melbourne
Aboriginal name: Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)
Melbourne is Australia's mecca for all things trendy and tasty. The city offers up exquisite dining, exhilarating sport and abundant opportunities to experience art.
A perfect blend of rich cultural history and new age trends is waiting for you in Melbourne. As the sun goes down, the city comes to life with a vibrant dining scene as well as events and exhibitions. Explore its bustling laneways, trendy neighbourhoods and sophisticated foodie scene to get a taste of what Melbourne is all about.
Melbourne stands on the ancient grounds of the Kulin Nation of the Wurundjeri people. For the Kulin Nation, Melbourne has always been an important meeting place for events of social, educational, sporting and cultural significance. Experience the culture through a range of heritage walks, cultural tours and galleries.
- Traditional name of Central Melbourne: Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)
- Indigenous Peoples of Central Melbourne: Wurundjeri people
- Traditional lands of Greater Melbourne: Kulin Nation
- Traditional languages: There are four traditional languages in Narrm. Bunurong (Bun-wurrung), Taungurung (Tung-ger-rung), Wathaurong (Wadha-wurrung) and Dja Dja Wurrung (Jar-Jar-Wur-rung).
- How to say g’day in Wathaurong: Wominjeka
Getting to Melbourne is easy with flights arriving direct to two airports.
- Melbourne Airport at Tullamarine (MEL) is 22km (14mi) from the city and services international and domestic arrivals
- Avalon Airport (AVV) is 55km (34mi) from the city and services international and domestic flights
- Hire cars, taxis, rideshares and a shuttle service are available from both airports
Getting around is just as easy as finding a great cup of coffee in Melbourne. The city offers clean, reliable and affordable public transport services. There is even a free City Circle tram line with historical commentary.
Despite having four distinct seasons, Melbourne's weather is known for being a bit unpredictable. Summers are generally warm and winters cold, but just ask a local and they’ll tell you that it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day. So whenever you decide to visit, be sure to pack layers and carry an umbrella in your day bag.
- High season: Spring and summer (November to February)
- Low season: Winter (June to August)
- Don’t miss: Melbourne’s world-class festivals and events
Melbourne is a dynamic city with plenty of accessible options for accommodation, attractions, restaurants, cafés and shopping.
- Arrival: Disability assistance is available at Melbourne Airport, including for those with hidden disabilities.
- Getting around: Most Melbourne buses and trains have accessible options – check the Public Transport Victoria website for information on using public transport.
- Accessible experience highlights: Several cultural institutions cater to travellers with accessibility and sensory needs, including the National Gallery of Victoria and Scienceworks.
- Helpful resources: Travellers Aid Australia provides mobility equipment hire and recharge points, while the City of Melbourne’s mobility map makes it easy to locate accessible facilities.
