Melbourne is a shoppers paradise with large department stores, boutique shops, discount centers and markets all located within walking distance of each other. Places worth checking out include Melbourne Central, Collings Street and Victoria Market

Also known as little Italy, Carlton has a very long history of migrants who once lived in this suburb. These days there is still a very Italian feel combined with university students and young professional couples who live in the area. A heritage area, most of the streets of carlton are packed with traditional old Victorian style cottages.

Within easy driving distance from Melbourne it offers a varied landscape of Australian native tree ferns as well as rolling hills and australian bush flora and fauna, such as the Lyrebird. Visitors can take a scenic trip through the dandenong ranges with Puffing Billy, a restored steam railway. Beyond the mountains are the yarra valley wineries well worth a look if you are a lover of good wines.

Step back in time to the gold rush days in the town of Ballarat at its world famous sovereign hill gold mine. Great theme park with authentic buildings, horse drawn carriage rides, underground tours of an old gold mine and you can even pan for your own gold.

I highly recommend that you book the underground gold mine tour when you pay for your admission as it is very popular and not worth missing out on.

The city of Melbourne is home to the third largest tram network in the world, consisting of 245 kilometers of track, 500 trams, and 1813 tram stops. Operated by the private company Yarra Trams Melbourne's trams contribute greatly to the city's distinctive character and are held in great affection by the people of Melbourne.

Also very unique to Melbourne is the world renowned Restaurant Tram. Bookings are essential and its a great way to see the sights of Melbourne while enjoying a 3 course meal. For more info on the tram car restaurant visit www.tramrestaurant.com.au

Built in 1908 and renovated in 1985 and located only 15mins from the City center you must visit this old and unique melbourne icon. It is one of Melbourne's best kept secrets tucked away in Fairfield Park and overlooking the Yarra River that runs through Melbourne.

Complete with traditional Tea rooms serving fresh scones, tea & coffee, an outdoor BBQ kitchen serving gourmet sausages, hamburgers, fish, seafood and fresh salads you can visit the boathouse any time of the day for a light snack or a full lunch.

This is one of the most scenic and spectacular drives anywhere in the world. Skirting right along the great southern ocean it offers spectacular seascapes and is dotted with picturesque towns and land marks. It is also known as the ship wreck coast as many ships which traditionally made their way from Europe via the roaring 40's were wrecked in making their way up north to the east indies. If you don't have time to hire a car and drive down the great ocean road there are many different tours available departing melbourne daily.

Only 10 minutes from the City center the Melbourne Zoo is packed with native animals including the Koala and Kangaroo as well as creatures from all around the world.