Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, trailing only Sydney. Over three million people call Melbourne home, and the city's welcoming climate has attracted people from all over the world to this city on the southeast coast of Australia.

Melbourne and Sydney enjoy a healthy rivalry, but even Sydneysiders cannot argue that Melbourne is Australia's shopping king. If you have been saving up for shopping armageddon, this is your chance! Melbourne also boasts of some of the best restaurants, music, and fashion in the country.

Much of Melbourne's boom can be attributed to the gold rushes of the 19th Century. Gold was found in the city's surrounding hills. The Ballarat and Bendigo gold rushes fueled the city's rise to prominence, as people from all over the world came to Melbourne to seek their fortunes. In recent years, another wave of immigration has transformed the city into an international hub.

The city can be easily broken up into smaller neighborhoods. You will most likely spend the majority of your time in the City Centre, an area bordered by Latrobe and Flinders Streets to the north and south, and Spring and Spencer Streets to the east and west. Chinatown is nearby, with Carlton to the north, where you'll find the University of Melbourne. The Yarra River runs through Melbourne, affording opportunities to stop for a picnic lunch along the banks.

All in all, you'll find Melbourne to be one of Australia's most dynamic and diverse cities, with more than enough activities to keep you busy during your stay.