A city tour can be a great way for first-time visitors to gain an insight to Melbourne.

Of course like all of today’s Australia, Melbourne has a deep Indigenous history that spans tens of thousands of years. It’s more recent history is counted from the beginnings of its first permanent European-led settlement in 1835. In the time since, this has seen the people of some 160 nations come to call Melbourne their home.

Melbourne’s current face is much influenced by two prominent eras - the Gold Rush of the late nineteenth century and a significant period of growth and renewal commencing in the 1990’s.

As a result, Melbourne carries a depth of history, yet is modern and vibrant. With just the right balance of street life and colour, Melbourne is also home to magnificent gardens for rest and enjoyment.

Known as a city of sports lovers, Melbourne plays host to a range of massive sports events each year.

Some are part of a world calendar like the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Tennis. Others are ours - including the ‘Melbourne Cup’ (horse race) and ‘Aussie Rules’ - our own form of Football (Footy).

Proudly, Melbourne is the first city to bring the Olympic Games to the Southern Hemisphere.

Perhaps seen to be in contrast to the ‘world of sport’, Melbourne is cultured and refined. The city boasts several fantastic theatres and art spaces and hosts significant film and comedy festivals.

Melbourne justly carries a reputation for wonderful dining experiences and presents plenty of varied music performance. (Think ‘Swanston St’ where ACDC filmed ‘It’s a Long Way to the Top’.)