While many know Sydney as the city worth traversing the globe for, the less obvious choice, Melbourne, the capital of the state of Victoria in southeastern Australia, might be the more interesting one. Known for its metropolitan European charm, thriving nightlife, dynamic art scene, and world-famous artisanal coffee, Melbourne is among the southern hemisphere’s most compelling hidden treasures. It’s easy to spend a few days wandering through the mural-filled alleys, letting a bartender in a secret speakeasy whip you up an award-winning cocktail, and enjoying top-notch museums and shopping. You can sip plenty of Victorian wine, find famously delicious dim sum, have your choice of Michelin-starred fine dining establishments, and try a tasting menu from the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Drive a half hour out of the city and you’ll find beaches, wineries, hot spring spas, and if you’re lucky, a few kangaroos.
