Why does Lonely Planet choose to call Melbourne home? Well there's the enviable live-music scene, modern museums, a vibrant multicultural mix, shopping to die for, leafy-green parklands, the best coffee on earth and cozy cocktail bars up every laneway. Discover the city's treasures for yourself with this smart, stylish and streetwise guide - like us, you might decide to stay forever.

? CHECK OUT the best galleries, theatres, museums and sporting arenas that Melbourne has to offer
? MAX OUT that credit card using our guide to Melbourne's best shopping
? DINE OUT at some of Australia's finest restaurants or linger over a latte at our author's favorite cafes
? FIND OUT who's the 'next big thing' at funky art spaces, cutting-edge theatres or grungy pubs
? GET OUT and around the city using our full-color maps and self-guided walking tours