Here are some of the interesting destinations that you could visit even if you were on an economic flight:
1) Old Melbourne Gaol
What was an austere prison before had turned into a magnificent museum today. Old Melbourne Gaol indeed recounts a grim yet informative part of Australia’s history. Aside from the creepy cells, it exhibits different death masks and artifacts that would provide you with a brief insight of how the 19th century was for criminals (and innocents, too).
2) National Rhododendron Gardens
If you are for some delightful views that would look perfect against your camera lenses, you should visit the National Rhododendron Gardens. Flaunting magnificent gardens of rhododendrons and azaleas, people are sure to get some colorful and memorable experiences with these floras.
3) Melbourne Museum
Just twelve years after its opening in 2000, the Melbourne Museum has already managed to find its way into the list of the most famous tourist destinations in the city. It is the largest museum in the country. It exhibits different artifacts that recount the wonderful history of Australia – from the Aborigines to the present settlers. It also feature interactive science exhibits, and displays real skeletons of a blue whale, an indoor rainforest, and insect collections.
4) Healesville Sanctuary
If you are an animal lover, you would love the Healesville Sanctuary. Established in 1921, it has served as home to endangered species and has played a great role in promulgating awareness among the people. The sanctuary also served as a home to displaced animals which were affected by the 2009 bushfires.
5) Queen Victoria Market
You will never get to experience real Melbourne if you don’t pay a visit to the Queen Victoria Market. A definite institution in the city, this attraction has become an icon which would expose you to the ‘real’ Melbourne. Stalls selling almost everything are here. Cheap dining venues are everywhere.
6) Gertrude Contemporary Art Spaces
A city is never complete without a contemporary gallery that would display the modern aesthetics produced by its modern people. That is why Melbourne has the Gertrude Contemporary Art Spaces. Boasting different artworks of different local artists, the place is surely worth visiting.
7) St. Paul’s Cathedral
Built during the 19th century, the St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most magnificent religious buildings in Melbourne. With its English Gothic Revival architecture, this Anglican Church sure creates a stunning subject for photography. The magnificent interior also matches the façade. Walls are made up of mosaics and Victorian influences are made obvious on its floors. Wood carvings and stained-glass arts on windows are also flaunted.
8) St. Patrick’s Cathedral
If the Anglicans have St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Roman Catholics in Melbourne have St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Although not as ornate as the first one, the latter is still a wonderful attraction to see. The stained-glass windows are definitely stunning!
9) Melbourne Zoo
For the whole family, Melbourne Zoo is one exciting destination where you can bond with each other! The wide collection of animals taken care of in the zoo will allow you and everyone else to learn and discover how wonderful they all could be.
10) Eureka Skydeck 88
For a spectacular view of the city, you should visit the Eureka Skydeck 88. As the highest vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere, it is surely worth the trip. It is definitely an exciting feat to stand in a huge glass elevator as you ascend to 935 feet off the ground.
Beautiful places, right? Remember, it is not the price of the air tickets to Melbourne that could foretell the outcome of your planned business trip or vacation. Even if it’s cheap (and that’s basically the best thing about it), it could still bring you to a lot of blissful destinations in the city.