About Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia's second largest city, is noted for its vitality, diversity and sophistication. Melbourne residents regard their city as the country's most elegant and cultured city while retaining a modern perspective.  The way of life in this city has been highly influenced by the people of more than 140 countries that have moved to Melbourne.  Various cultural influences can be found in the architecture, cuisine and arts, making Melbourne a city of contrast that has something to offer every taste.

Melbourne offers a highly appealing lifestyle for all people.  It is surrounded by Port Phillip Bay, offering visitors sandy beaches and water fun.  The city also has world-class parks and gardens that are used for a wide range of activities.  Some of the most notable events hosted here are the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix, the AFL Grand Final, the Australian Open Tennis Championship, and the Melbourne Cup.

Also known as the “City of Arts”, Melbourne is the leader in offering cultural activities in the Asia-Pacific region. The Summer Music Festival at the Victorian Arts Center, the St. Kilds festival, the Victoria St. Lunar festival, the Italian Lygon St. Festa, and Oktoberfest are a small sampling of such activities offered year-round in Melbourne. The city also features many works of contemporary artists in art, design, and theater. 

Many of the major attractions are outside the city limits. Nature lovers adore the penguin parade at Phillip Island, the open-range Werribee Zoo and the popular Healesville Sanctuary.  Food lovers flock to Yarra Valley wineries to sip on pinot noir and dine at the region's many restaurants.  Hundreds of picturesque mountains, lakes and valleys lie within an hour's drive of the city.

Climate

Australia experiences seasons opposite of the U.S., with summer from December through February, and winter from June through August. The summer months are hot, around 80 degrees Fahrenheit.  Autumn and spring are mild months, with strong winds in spring. Winter is cool, although nothing compared to winter in Wisconsin! Average temperatures are around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, but only around four hours of sunshine a day. 

Transportation

Public transportation in Melbourne is well developed, including trains, buses, and trams.

Monash also offers various weekend trips in affiliation with their campus. Also, you are free to travel as frequently as your schedule allows. Visit Melbourne's Metlink Web site for more details.

Cost of Living

For prices in Melbourne, visit the program Web site.

Top Sights

• Queen Victoria Market
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Royal Botanic Garden
• National Gallery of Victoria
• Shrine of Remembrance
• Rialto Tower

Learn More

• Fodor's online Melbourne guide
• Information about Melbourne
• Information about Australia