A thoroughly liveable city, Melbourne has a buzzy vibe and an Aussie sense of fun. There’s always something going on, and one of its many festivals is Moomba – Australia’s largest free arts festival. Well worth a visit are the National Gallery of Victoria and the Melbourne Aquarium, whose highlight is walking through a clear tunnel as sharks swim over your head.

The city’s most recognisable landmark is Flinders Street Station, whose yellow and green façade matches the colour of the historic Melbourne trams that still run around the world’s longest tram network. Keep an eye out for the street art as you travel.

Shopping in Melbourne is fantastic. Queen Victoria Market is the largest open-air market south of the Equator, while the La Trobe Street shopping centre has over 300 stores. For food, don’t miss Little Italy - the Carlton area.

South of the Yarra River is St Kilda, home to the best beach and Albert Park, where the F1 Australian Grand Prix is held. However, this is not the city’s only sporting heritage. It’s also the home of Aussie Rules football and the MCG, a must-see for cricket fans.

Booking.com has a range of Melbourne accommodation from hotels to hostels and motels, some near Melbourne Airport.