There is a historic rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne. In my opinion Sydney wins hands down with its picturesque harbour, stunning architecture, golden beaches and wide array of museums.
However Melbourne has much to offer. In terms of a place to live I know many Australians who have chosen Melbourne for its European style climate, bustling metropolitan life, varied cuisine and vibrant nightlife.
So what to see?
Depending upon your budget here are some Lazyshark suggestions on how to spend your time and Australian dollars whilst you're there:
Money to burn?
Restaurants - Melbourne is a gastronomical paradise with a vast array of restaurants to suit every pocket. Access to food ingredients and the Asian/Greek influence to the cuisine has led to Melbourne attracting world reknowned chefs.
Sporting events - Home to the Australian Grand Prix, the Australian Open (one of the 4 slams in tennis), and the Melbourne Cup. Why not get yourself a hat and have a flutter at Australia's biggest horse race! This sports mad city comes alive as the eyes of the country and world fall on it. If you are lucky enough to be in the city at the time and flush enough to afford a ticket they are must see events.
The Arts - Take your pick - Melbourne plays host to a number of festivals throughout the year. A few of the more well known ones include the Melbourne International Arts festival, the Melbourne Fringe and Australian Fashion week.
Wine Festivals - Melbourne and the surrounding area has many great vineyards. A few of them host annual wine festivals including Budhurst and Brown Brothers. Why not pop along and sample the fine array of local Victorian wine...?
On a shoestring budget?
St. Kildas - This small bohemian district just outside Melbourne is reknowned for its relaxed bustling markets and buzzing nightlife. A great place for a stroll and a smoothie at the weekends.
Great Ocean Road - You can start or finish at Melbourne. Best seen by hiring a car or grouping together with fellow backpackers to rent a mini van which allows you to stop and start when you want. The Twelve (now Eleven) Apostles make this one of, if not, the greatest ocean drives in the world.
Royal Botanic Gardens - Entry to the gardens is free of charge. A great place to stroll around during the day and take in a variety of different gardens and plants from the Cycad Collection to the Californian Gardens.
Phillip Island - A short drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is home to the Little Penguin amongst other wildlife. They come ashore at dusk climbing up the shoreline to their sand dune burrows for the night - 'the Penguin parade' as it is known is a spectacle worth seeing.
