Melbourne Information

Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, is the second largest city in Australia.

Melbourne was originally settled by graziers, John Batman being the first. He claimed land just north of Port Phillip Bay, whilst other graziers also decided to occupy areas near the Yarra River, but without the necessary permission to colonise.

Captain William Lonsdale was sent from Sydney to oversee the land sales. The township being established in 1835 and named after the British Prime Minister at the time, Lord Melbourne. Having been originally considered part of New South Wales, Victoria was established as a separate colony in 1851.

Melbourne South BankMelbourne's multicultural atmosphere is set amongst Victorian-era buildings and gorgeous parkland. It has a population of just over 4 million people, and is a picturesque place with so much to offer the visitor and resident alike.

Melbourne CityIt's hard to believe that such a fantastic location was abandoned by the first settlers who had arrived in 1803 and then departed to Tasmania after staying for less than one year. Being such a diverse place, Melbourne offers everything for the tourist from tennis and bikeriding to fishing and windsurfing.

There are also many accommodation types to chose from, including apartments, hotels, motels, campsites, bed and breakfasts and hostels. For a listing of hostels in the whole of Victoria visit the Victoria hostel directory.

Melbourne City ViewThe city centre, also known as the Central Business District (CBD), is on the north bank of the Yarra River. It is approximately 5 kilometres inland from Port Phillip Bay, where most of the pretty suburbs are situated.

The city is divided into two parts by the Yarra River, creating predominantly working class areas in the North and West regions, and more affluent areas in the South and the East. The CBD used to be known as the 'Golden Mile', as it is 1 mile long and 1/2 mile wide.

South YarraSouthgate gives access across the Yarra River to the south of the city, Victoria Street marking the north. To the east you'll find Fitzroy Gardens and Federation Square, and to the west Spencer Street and the docklands.

The heart of the city is marked by Bourke Street Mall which is situated between Swanston Street and Elizabeth Street, running north to south. Bourke Street and Collins Street are the main roads running west to east.

One of the best ways to really enjoy Melbourne is to take part in an organised tour. Some of the popular ones include the Melbourne Crime Tour, the Great Ocean Road Tour and for the adventurous Caving is also popular.

Melbourne Accommodation



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