Prior to your travels, it's advisable to acquaint yourself with the city in advance, using a map of Melbourne and recommendations from fellow tourists or former residents who have relocated to Australia for permanent residence.
Melbourne is a sprawling city with a distinct division between the central business district (Central Business Directory) and various residential suburbs. In the city center, you'll find a variety of traditional apartment buildings and hotels catering to different preferences. You can explore the map of Melbourne featuring over 140 hotels.
If you're not daunted by distances, traveling with your family for a week or longer, and especially if you plan on renting a car, consider exploring areas like Alamein, Epping, Melton, Sydenham, Werribee, or Upfield. These areas offer opportunities to rent cottages and relish the fresh air and scenic landscapes.
If you prefer something closer to the city center, you can explore options in Greensborough, South Yarra, or Oakleigh on the map of Melbourne.
Fitzroy, known as a "bohemian neighborhood," the coastal area of St Kilda, the Italian enclave of Carlton, the trendy district of South Yarra, the Greek-influenced Richmond, and the upmarket Toorak all offer intriguing attractions from a tourist perspective.
When contemplating where to stay in Melbourne for your trip, keep in mind that the city has both a bustling business center and quieter residential suburbs.
The business center of Melbourne is dominated by skyscrapers, with various sights nestled among them. In contrast, the suburbs consist mainly of one- and two-story comfortable private houses. Australians often consider these suburban areas to be ideal for well-to-do residents. The suburbs are typically around a half-hour drive from the city center, making private transportation a necessity.
A standout attraction in the heart of Melbourne is Southgate, a neighborhood that's a must-visit for every tourist. For those with a keen interest in beaches, Brighton East is worth exploring; however, it's known for its beauty and high cost.
It's advisable to exclude Footscray and Sunshine from your list of suitable places to stay, as these areas are considered unpleasant and even unsafe in Melbourne. They have gained notoriety for an influx of migrants from Africa and Vietnam.
