Melbourne, Australia | World’s Best Cities

Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne may not have centuries-old landmarks (although it did finish an impressive #3 in our Sights & Landmarks subcategory), but it more than makes up for it with its vibrant food, coffee culture and arts scene. Graffitied laneways like Hosier Lane, quirky attractions such as the Brighton Bathing Boxes and the adorable St. Kilda penguins all add to the city’s charm. As a gateway to 21 wine regions, including the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula, Melbourne truly epitomizes “wine country.” The city’s annual Australian Open, the first Grand Slam to attract over a million fans in 2024, is a global sports highlight adding to the city’s #9 Lovability index score, a reflection of its appeal to both locals and visitors. 

To address the challenges of population growth in what’s increasingly perceived as a balanced, safe and resilient global hometown, the city is undertaking transformative urban projects under Plan Melbourne 2017-2050. Key initiatives include the Metro Tunnel, which will enhance public transport capacity when it opens in 2025, and the revitalization of Federation Square with enhanced pedestrian access and green spaces. Hospitality developments are equally ambitious. The recently opened Ritz-Carlton Melbourne is elevating luxury accommodation, while the expansion of the Queen Victoria Market precinct is reshaping the skyline.

Melbourne’s reputation as a dynamic, future-ready city is further cemented by ambitious new initiatives shaping its skyline, culture and livability. The Greenline Project, a transformative US$300-million urban renewal plan, is set to revitalize the Yarra River’s north bank by 2026, creating five interconnected waterfront precincts featuring walking trails, green spaces and public art, and soon to enhance Melbourne’s already impressive Top 10 Nature & Parks ranking. 

The city is also ascendant economically, with the Arden Precinct Development, scheduled for completion by 2025, aiming to transform North Melbourne into a thriving innovation hub, home to research facilities, start-ups and health tech enterprises. Meanwhile, the Docklands revitalization continues, with the addition of new residential towers, office spaces and dining venues. 

At Melbourne Airport (ranked #44), a US$1-billion expansion project is underway, including a third runway and upgraded international terminal, set to bolster the city’s connectivity by 2026 and ensure Melbourne remains not just Australia’s cultural capital but a globally coveted place to call home, too.