As the capital city of Victoria, Melbourne differs from its other state capital counterparts. It has a distinct style and flair that is uniquely its own, and boasts a cosmopolitan, stylish feel that attracts artists, fashionistas and cultural aficionados. And unlike other Australian cities, Melbourne embraces winter. Indeed, Melbournians boast that it is in winter that their city truly comes alive, hosting a barrage of music, art, film, theatre, sporting and food events. It might not have the Opera House or world famous beaches as of Sydney, but Melbournians will proudly proclaim that they live in the ‘cultural capital’ of Australia – and with good reason. As other cities turn their backs on the colder months, why not hop on one of many cheap flights available for a Melbourne winter getaway? Here are a few things you can look forward to:

Shopping – Style gurus and fashion fiends flock to Melbourne year round for the Melbourne shopping scene. From cutting edge designers to vintage boutiques, Melbourne offers both the big department store shopping experience as well as a labyrinth of alleyways and laneways with hidden designer gems. There are a number of shopping precincts in Melbourne, each with a distinctive style. Some of the most popular include trendy Chapel Street in South Yarra, the shopping complexes of Southgate, the CBD and the exclusive boutique clothing of Toorak Road.
Art and culture – Melbourne’s wealth of world class art galleries and visiting exhibitions is impressive. Melbourne also fosters edgy design and internationally recognised visual artists and performing arts companies. Many visitors to Melbourne come for a culture-break and to get a taste of the local and international art scene that Melbourne showcases. Check what’s on show when you’ll be visiting. At the National Gallery of Victoria, for example, the Ron Mueck touring exhibition is on show until January 2011.
Historical sites – Settled in 1835 and developed with the gold rush of the1850s, Melbourne showcases remnants of a colourful, culturally rich past. The city is speckled with evidence of the state’s proud and fascinating history. Explore elegant Victorian-era buildings and Murray River paddle steamers or maritime museums and steam trains. Heritage walks and tours are available to take in all the historical sites.
Nearby regions – From Melbourne, visitors can easily access Victoria’s regional attractions. Visit the vineyards of the Yarra Valley, experience the beauty of the Mornington Peninsular or set off along the stunning Ocean Road. Visitors to Melbourne can easily turn their city trips into Victoria holidays and explore all that the state has to offer.

Discover all that Melbourne – the ‘cultural capital’ of Australia – has to offer this winter. The city is easily accessed from all other Australian cities with a range of domestic Qantas flights servicing Melbourne daily. The cultural charm of Melbourne is best experienced as the leaves fall and the temperatures drop, so plan a winter getaway to Melbourne today.