The Thousands

It's not a myth, what they say about Melbourne. The best projects, galleries, shops, gigs, and coffees are rarely found on our main streets. Of course, if we hear one more comment about 'vibrant laneways’ we'll punch someone in the neck.

Melbourne's central city has changed so much over the past fifteen years – from a place where residents had trouble finding a place to buy milk, to a labyrinthine hub of apartments, chaos and creativity. Studios, music venues, cafes, cinemas, zine shops and one-off boutiques are slotted anywhere they fit: from loading docks and warehouses to old shop windows, subways and rooftops. The inevitable rent rises are beginning to bite back, and many creative types are heading further afield – especially to Brunswick, Collingwood, North Melbourne and Footscray. But there's a sense that there's enough of the old city left to accommodate low-cost awesomeness for a few years to come.

More than anything, Melbourne is a city where people try new things. Because they know the rest of us will turn up and check it out – at least the first time. We’re interested, adventurous and happy to pay $10 on the door to see something real. Dates for your diary: Thursday is unofficial exhibition opening night and Melbourne has more artist-run spaces than any other Australian city so bring a bike to zip around between 6pm and 9pm. Oh, and every night is live music night.

Getting Around

FROM THE AIRPORT

Welcome to Melbourne! We don't have a train from the airport and cab trips to town can cost around $40. The best bet is the Skybus shuttle from the airport to Southern Cross Station in the central city. A one-way ticket is $16 and they leave every 10 minutes from the domestic and international terminals. But watch out for the appalling tourist videos they play on repeat.

IN THE CITY

Trams! There are a number of lines heading in and out of town. Grab a map from the MetShop at Melbourne Town Hall. We have a new top-up travel card system for Melbourne's trams, trains and buses called MYKI, and you can buy these cards at train stations, some tram stops and many convenience stores. We also have a single ticket system and you can buy these at tram stops and on board - so long as you have loose change!!

IN THE COUNTRY

You’ll need a V-Line train to get to the country. These depart from Southern Cross and Filnders Street Stations.

ON WHEELS

Melbourne is flat as a pancake – perfect for bikes. Check out Bicycle Victoria's suggested riding trails. Cars are still getting used to bikes here, so it's good to plan your inner city rides according to existing bike lanes. The City of Melbourne has a downloadable TravelSmart map. We also have a BikeShare system. You'll need a credit card to set up an account AND you'll need a helmet. Also check out The Humble Vintage - a bike hire service run by the friendliest dude ever. These are available to pick up from a number of venues around town, and you'll get a copy of the Humble Vintage publication Melbourne For Visitors and Casual Cyclists.

BUDGET FLIGHTS

There are many affordable interstate flights available these days. But we warn you: some of them depart from Avalon airport, which feels like about a six-hour drive away even though it's not. Check out Tiger Airways, Jetstar and Virgin Australia for cheap flights. But try to depart from Tullamarine airport. And DO NOT arrive late. They're all really strict about that and won't let you on the plane.