A city travel guide to Australia’s second largest city- a sophisticated destination of art, architecture and shopping. Find out what to do and where to go with our online city guide to Melbourne.

Realistically the only other Australian city capable of competing with Sydney for the affections of most foreign visitors, Melbourne is a sprawling multi-cultural city in the south-eastern tip of Australia and is capital of the state of Victoria.

Restored and preserved nineteenth-century architecture, built following the discovery of gold in Victoria, has given Melbourne a more European city feel compared to other Australian cities, and whether shopping, sightseeing or sport watching; eating, drinking or partying, Melbourne is Australia’s cultural trend-setter, and will not disappoint visitors with its elegant charm. Further afield must-see destinations in Victoria include the Yarra and Dandenong Ranges, goldfield towns such as Castlemaine and Bendigo, and the Great Ocean Road.

Melbourne Tourist: Hotels in Melbourne

Stephanie’s: This beautifully restored Victorian villa, situated in the heart of Williamstown, Melbourne’s historic waterfront village, is the perfect place to unwind. Enjoy the complimentary chocolates and port either in the spa or in the separate sitting room with DVD/CD library whilst sitting by the roaring fire. A jewel of a place to be found just ten minutes walking distance from the heart of Melbourne. Rooms: $155-175 a night. www.stephanies.biz

Claremonts Bed and Breakfast: Situated in trendy South Yarra, surrounded by pubs, cafes and shops, this B&B - a restored Victorian guesthouse - is the perfect base from which to explore the city. There is a 24 hour reception, internet cafe, guest laundry, on premises pharmacy and gifts, tour desk, television and telephone in all rooms, share/private bathrooms located close to rooms, complimentary tea and coffee at all times, comfortable dining room and guest lounge. Great value in a great location. From $66 per room per night. www.bedsandbreakfasts.com.au/Claremont

A City Travel Guide to Melbourne: Beaches in Melbourne

St Kilda Beach: A great place to spend some time sunbathing, rollerblading along the promenade California style or simply as somewhere to take a leisurely stroll. The nearby streets of Acland and Fitzroy Streets, also well worth exploring, are filled with great places to eat, numerous nightclubs and even a funfair to keep you busy. A vibrant and fun spot to spend a sunny afternoon.

Brighton Beach: Colourful bathing boxes are dotted along the edge of the beach, providing a kitsch background to this attractive beach which also has great views of the city. You can choose from taking a stroll along Middle Brighton Pier, relax in the historic botanic gardens or alternatively take a wander through the various galleries, antique shops, restaurants and cafes close by.

Hampton Beach: Escape the bustle of most city beaches in this secluded, natural haven. Partake in some water sports and beach activities, or take a stroll along the promenade where artists gather to capture the stunning scenery.

A City Travel Guide to Melbourne: Restaurants in Melbourne

Inkari: This is more than just another place to fill your stomach; this café is more of a complete cultural experience. Here you are encouraged to embrace the history and culinary delights of Latin America exploring the food from Mexico to Chile. The food is excellent, exciting in its diversity. Mains: $10-$22.50. www.inkari.com.au

Soulmamma’s: Situated on the seafront, in the recently renovated St Kilda Sea Baths, this fine vegetarian restaurant is well worth a visit. Soulmamma’s has something for everyone, choices ranging from pizza and pasta to curry and salads plus the menu changes daily to accommodate seasonal variety. www.soulmama.com.au

A City Travel Guide to Melbourne: Pubs and Bars in Melbourne

Borsch, Vodka and Tears: In the mood for vodka and maybe a bite to eat with a hint of Polish eccentricity- then look no further. You will find it hard not to be impressed by the strange gothic cool of this unusual café/bar. If the décor has no effect on your senses then choose one of the 105 vodkas and you will soon be caught up in the fairytaleesque magic of the place.

The Croft Institute: A quirky but very cool bar, you walk down a dubious looking alleyway to reach it, the unique laboratory theme is fascinating if somewhat creepy, and it certainly helps to initiate some interesting conversation. There are three levels; on the top is a dance floor open on the weekends, featuring house and electro. www.thecroftinstitute.com.au

A City Travel Guide to Melbourne: Clubs in Melbourne

Cherry: This is a funky little retro joint found down a back alley off Flinders Lane. If you like the Indie rock scene or just enjoy dancing in an unpretentious atmosphere where you can let all those truly unique and possibly alcohol fuelled dance moves surface then this is the place for you. There is a grungy, down to earth appeal to this genuinely fun dancing/drinking venue, and when you’ve well and truly beaten a path across the dance floor, there’s plenty of room on the cushioned seating to chat or simply chill out. Entry fee: $5 to $15

Arthur’s: Arthur’s has been designed by Peiro Gesualdi, renowned architect and international fashion designer. Here he has created a glamorous and sumptuously stylish lounge club to drink at. DJ’s throw out funky house tunes at the weekend. www.arthursbarlounge.com