Melbourne is the coastal capital of the southeastern Australian state of Victoria. At the city’s centre is the modern Federation Square development, with plazas, bars, and restaurants by the Yarra River. In the Southbank area, the Melbourne Arts Precinct is the site of Arts Centre Melbourne – a performing arts complex – and the National Gallery of Victoria, with Australian and indigenous art.

Melbourne Museum and the Royal Exhibition Building explore city history and culture. The Immigration Museum and the Chinese Museum provide differing cultural perspectives on local settlement, while Old Melbourne Gaol offers insight into 19th-century prison life. A major shopping destination is Queen Victoria Market, a Victorian-era building with food stalls. The city’s 19th-century “laneways” and shopping arcades are lined with cafes, galleries and