Australia’s second-largest city, Melbourne is the capital of Victoria state and arguably the most European in style of all Australian cities. Victorian buildings line shady streets plied by the nation’s largest fleet of trams, and green grassy parks and outdoor cafés pop up at every turn.

Australia Day: the nation’s biggest annual celebration focuses on the thing it loves most: itself. Melbourne pulls out all the stops for this important national holiday with concerts, special events and a massive fireworks display.

Tullamarine International Airport, located 14 miles northwest of downtown, is Melbourne’s main airport. Australia’s national carrier Qantas and discount airline Virgin Blue handle the majority of domestic flights from all the state capitals in the country. A number of major international carriers also provide regular service into Melbourne, offering air travellers plenty of options.

Banks: 09:30 to 16:00, Monday to Thursday; 09:30 to 17:00 Fridays
Post Offices: 08:30 to 17:30, Monday to Friday; 09:00 to 16:00 Saturdays; 10:00 to 16:00 Sundays
Department Stores and Shops: 09:00 to 17:30, Monday to Wednesday, and Saturdays; 09:00 to 18:00 Thursdays; 09:00 to 21:00 Fridays; 10:00 to 17:00 Sundays
Museums: 09:30 to 17:00, daily
Business Offices: 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday