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Melbourne, capital of Victoria, is a glorious destination for holiday rentals. It combines sweeping Port Phillip Bay with city sights, scenic hinterland ranges and the Yarra Valley wineries, all within easy driving distance. Melbourne has its own distinctive character and appeal, from the narrow laneways lined with public artworks to ostentatious landmarks. It’s a fusion of eclectic art galleries, rooftop bars, fashion boutiques and mouth-watering international cuisine. No wonder Melbourne has topped the list as the World’s Most Liveable City by the Economist for the last seven years in a row!
Melbourne’s grand Victorian architecture owes a great deal to the 1850s Gold Rush, which transformed this foundling colony into one of the wealthiest cities in the world. Now known as the cultural capital of Australia it has a wealth of unique attractions and activities to suit all tastes. Melbourne makes the perfect place for a cultural getaway in all seasons with a plethora of quirky and classic holiday rentals to suit every requirement.
Melbourne has a good choice of holiday accommodation for families too. Beach homes for rent are within easy reach of sandy beaches at St Kilda, Brighton and the locals’ favourite – “Willy Beach” at Williamstown. Couples looking for a city break combining cultural activities, concerts, shopping and restaurants will find plenty of luxury holiday apartments to choose from while larger holiday rentals attract family gatherings, wedding parties and friends’ reunions.
Beyond the city sights, Melbourne visitors may prefer to stay in one of the quieter neighbourhoods. The local public transport train and bus service including an excellent tram bus service makes reaching the city very easy from any of these nearby suburbs and resorts.
South Yarra
From art studios to haute couture, South Yarra has plenty to see and do from its chic holiday cottages and modern apartments just 5km from Melbourne city centre. For fashion and trendy eats, head to the village atmosphere of nearby Toorak or spend the day in the magnificent Royal Botanical Gardens.
Port Melbourne
Port Melbourne holiday homes are a great way to experience this sunny bay-front suburb of Melbourne which has a mix of restored cottages, architect-designed homes and modern apartments. Set on the banks of the Yarra River, visitors will be charmed by the historic pubs, sandy beaches and Bay Street boutiques in this waterfront gem.
Richmond
Known for its fine dining, Richmond accommodation is the perfect choice for foodies and wine connoisseurs, just 15 minutes from Melbourne CBD. There’s a host of British-themed watering holes, and trendy cafés and restaurants to enjoy after browsing for designer furniture, trendy fashion and home accents.
St Kilda
Stroll by the seashore, sail and kitesurf on the bay or attend the Arts and Crafts market on St Kilda esplanade, just 7km southeast of the city. There are plenty of cool cafés and fun activities to enjoy from your St Kilda holiday home, or chill out with our loved one and do nothing at all!
Brunswick
6km due north of Melbourne, Brunswick is an unpretentious suburb with a cosmopolitan east-meets-west flavour in its shops, bakeries and international restaurants. From settler history on Sydney Road to strolling through the CERES Environment Park listening to bellbirds, this is a charming holiday destination for all ages.
Camberwell
Upmarket Camberwell woos visitors with its affluent neighbourhoods and luxury holiday homes 13km due east of Melbourne city centre. Packed with historic churches (it has 10!), green parks and Sunday markets, it offers a laidback atmosphere for the ultimate relaxing holiday.
THINGS TO DO IN MELBOURNE
This UNESCO City of Literature is home to some of Australia’s most hallowed institutions such as the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), the magnificent State Library and the World Heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building.
Take a guided walking tour around some of the unique historic landmarks near your Melbourne holiday rental. The State Library has a series of hidden rooms and cosy nooks while Hosier Lane is the place to admire the artwork/graffiti that is well worth a selfie! You’re sure to come across Victoria’s most infamous son, outlaw Ned Kelly, who is celebrated in many museums, pubs and attractions.
Go shopping at the Queen Victoria Market. It’s a great place to pick up a picnic lunch with artisan bakeries, appetising delis and handmade chocolates.
Sports fans can combine a holiday in Melbourne with attending one of the world class sports events such as; the Australian Tennis Open (January), Formula 1 Racing (March), The Ashes Test Cricket Match vs England (December - Boxing Day) and the Rugby League World Cup (November). You may need to book your Melbourne holiday accommodation well ahead for these popular events.
Families can enjoy a day at Melbourne Zoo interacting with everything from butterflies to elephants. Melbourne Museum has an extraordinary collection of taxidermy for those who want to get up close to a koala, panda or toucan. Luna Park is close to St Kilda holiday homes and offers fairground rides and family fun in this oldest amusement park in Australia. While you’re there, visit the nearby colony of Little Penguins – kids and adults alike will adore them.
More energetic visitors to Melbourne can walk, jog or cycle along Merri Creek Trail and see the model Stonehenge and Wishing Tree. After dark, catch a concert, comedy night or show at The Forum, one of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings with its Moorish architecture.
The ultimate way to see Melbourne is by hot air balloon. Consider booking a flight at sunrise – you may even spot your Melbourne holiday home whilst floating high above the city.