Melbourne is the capital of Victoria, and also the second biggest city in Australia. It was established in 1837 during the period of the "golden rush", which stimulated its growth and further development. Melbourne is considered to be "the most European city" in the country thanks to its well-preserved buildings dating back to the 19th century. This city is also famous for its fine dining and shopping. Melbourne becomes a centre of attention twice a year as a host city for the Australian Open (One of the Grand Slams in tennis) and Grand Prix (one of the tournaments of Formula 1).

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Main Attractions and Places of Interest

• Victorian Art Centre - complex of theatres and concert halls, famous for its unusual architecture.
  
  
• Rialto Tower - one of the highest buildings in the city (253m), where the Observation deck is situated.
  
  
• National Museum - modern museum with rather interesting exposition about the Australian continent, its nature and history.
  
  
• St. Kilda - one of the fashionable suburbs and centres of the nightlife located on the ocean beach.
  
  
• Carlton - area famous for Italian cuisine.
  
  
• The Blue Dandenongs - National Park where one can see the huge eucalypts, called Mountain Ash.
  
  
• Great Ocean Road - world-famous scenic ocean drive, where you can see cliff formations called the 12 Apostils.
  
  
• Phillip Island - natural sanctuary, famous for a big colony of Fairy Penguins.
  
  
• Sovereign Hill (Ballarat) - historical entertainment park from the gold rush times.

Most Popular Tours

• City Tour (4 hours)
  You will visit some of Melbourne's most attractive suburbs, including St. Kilda and Port Melbourne, which are situated on the ocean. You will also visit the gardens and ANZAC War Memorial, floral clock and Victorian Art Centre, explore Captain Cook's Cottage and have a look at some other fine examples of Melbourne's architectural splendour.
  
  
• Sovereign Hill Tour (up to 8 hours)
  Get into the atmosphere of the "golden rush"; see the reconstructed historic goldmining settlement of Ballarat. You will meet the characters of the era, visit original gold mines and hear the amazing stories of luck and misfortune, prosperity and everyday suffering of the gold rush age.
  
  
• Phillip Island Tour (Penguin Parade) (afternoon, up to 9 hours)
  Phillip Island is a National Sanctuary, where numerous rare animals and birds are carefully preserved. The most amazing event happening every evening is the Penguin Parade, when hundreds of small Fairy Penguins, after having spent a day in the ocean, are going out to the shore and rushing to their burrows. See these fascinating creatures up close as they return to their nests to greet their young with the day's catch.
  
  
• The Great Ocean Road Tour (up to 11 hours)
  Enjoy one of the world's great coastal drives, with its dramatic scenery of striking contrasts. You will pass peaceful townships, giant cliffs, golden beaches and lush forests. The highlights of the journey are the picturesque 12 limestone cliffs, known as the 12 Apostles.
  
  
• Yarra Valley and Wildlife Park Tour (up to 8 hours)
  You are going to visit the Wildlife Park and see the unique Australian animals up close. Then explore the wineries of the Yarra Valley, taste some great wine and fresh food.
  
  

Evening Entertainments

• Tramcar Restaurant Dinner (early and late)
  Delicious food and high-class service, all drinks are included into the price. Enjoy yourself while slowly moving along the beautiful evening Melbourne. This is a must to do!