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Traveling to Victoria is like teleporting yourself into a postcard of a picturesque harbor scene鈥攜ou'll be instantly mesmerized by sequences of jaw-dropping coastal views. Picture cobblestone streets, hidden speakeasies (if you know, you know!), 海角社区-class eats, and indie boutiques鈥攇et ready for a walkthrough of the eight best downtowns in Victoria, Australia's "Garden State." From the deep-rooted heritage of Geelong to the buzzing foodie scene of Bendigo and the Mediterranean streets of Mildura, these eight downtowns offer a little something for everybody.

Melbourne

Melbourne's streets hum with a vibrant culture, cuisine, and creativity pulse. The Central Business District (or "CBD") harbors a hidden street art culture where upscale restaurants intermingle, creating a fusion between underground and exclusive. Federation Square, on the edge of downtown Melbourne, is an architectural marvel and cultural epicenter that provides open-air events such as film screenings, workshops, and cultural gatherings and is home to art galleries, restaurants, bars, and caf茅s.

Wandering cobblestone alleys lands you at Chin Chin, where Thai spices reel you in. Must-try dishes include kingfish sashimi with lime, coconut, and Thai basil, butter chicken curry, and pad seuw with wok-charred beef. MoVida is another well-known restaurant in the famous graffiti laneways of Melbourne. It has a Spanish-style interior with exposed brick, warm lighting, and a lively atmosphere. Hand-picked wines complement the curated menu, which features octopus, beef cheek, and anchoa.

Finally, no trip to Melbourne is complete without a few hours well-spent in the National Gallery of Victoria, Australia's most-visited museum. Currently, you'll find an otherwordly, mesmerizing 200-work exhibition of Yayoi Kusama, filled with massive polka-dot sculptures, plus a kid-friendly version known as The Obliteration Room that's perfect for families.

Geelong

If you鈥檙e looking for coastal serenity and urban sophistication, Geelong is a revitalized bayside gem that offers historic architecture, salty sea breeze, and a thriving arts and dining scene. The heart of downtown Geelong is along the Geelong Waterfront, an extensive esplanade showcasing public art, lush greenery, and the iconic Cunningham Pier.

Highlighting Geelong's maritime past, the Cunningham Pier sits on Stingaree Bay. It was once a thriving shipping hub, but now it is a scenic hot spot for waterfront dining and sunset views. Meals with a view are not lacking here; the Wharf Shed has one of the best waterfront dining views and specializes in locally sourced seafood, such as grilled barramundi, calamari, or a platter of ocean delights. For a more innovative dining experience, Songbird Thai BBQ takes northern Thai gastronomy up a notch with its spectacular menu of traditional yet imaginative Thai street barbeque dishes. Shopping downtown is not complete without a stop at Frankie Say Relax, which offers homeware, curated fashion, and souvenirs that are ideal for travelers looking for coastal vibe gifts or keepsakes.

Ballarat

Ballarat's downtown scene reflects its Gold Rush heritage, where Victorian architecture dominates the streets and a thriving arts scene breathes. Lydiard Street is the pulse of the downtown area, showcasing 19th-century buildings such as Her Majesty's Theatre, Ballarat Railway Station, and Craigs Royal Hotel. Each building reflects the history of the town, featuring intricate facades, decorative ironwork, towering columns, and large arched windows, and many of the buildings are made from locally sourced bluestone and brick鈥攁dding to the charm of the street.

For an exclusive experience, Underbar is a reservation-only degustation menu showcasing the region's finest seasonal ingredients, such as fresh asparagus in the spring, black truffles in the winter, and wild mushrooms in the fall. If you like a more rustic vibe, The Forge Pizzeria serves wood-fired pizzas made from hand-stretched dough and topped with only locally sourced ingredients, including specialty items like slow-cooked lamb or prosciutto and rocket. Downtown Ballarat is also one of the best downtowns in Victoria in terms of shopping finds. Try a visit at Hattie and the Wolf for those who love unique handmade items like jewelry, artisanal homeware, and eco-friendly fashion pieces.

Bendigo

Grand Gold Rush architecture blesses the downtown area of Bendigo with ornate buildings that tell a story about the town's past, which is now home to restaurants, galleries, boutiques and cultural hubs. The Bendigo Art Gallery is one of Australia's oldest art galleries. The gallery hosts numerous exhibitions such as Frida Kahlo: In Her Own Image, Living Connections: Reflections on Care, Kinship, and Country, and The School of Paris: Australian Artists Abroad鈥攏ot to mention that it's home to a number of Australian masterpieces.

Dining is another large draw of downtown Bendigo. Alium Dining is a local favorite serving exquisitely curated multi-course meals in a heritage building. Bold flavors like spiced pumpkin arancini, honey-glazed lamb ribs, and cauliflower-chorizo-grana Padano salad are available. Hidden within the downtown area, The Victoria Lane Speakeasy mimics the secrecy of the prohibition era with minimal signage. Crafted cocktails, moody jazz, and a dimly lit laneway, encompass an era long forgotten; visiting here is non-negotiable. One last stop should include Bob Boutique, a last hurrah for quirky gifts and souvenirs, artisan stationary, or independent designer clothing options. The boutique is well-known for its handmade and Australian-designed products.

Mildura

Downtown Mildura is where the warmth of the Mediterranean meets the heart of regional Australia, creating a sunny-side-up environment with leafy greenery and rich culinary experiences, art, and culture; there鈥檚 no question why Mildura is one of the best downtowns in Victoria. At the core of this lively area is the Mildura Arts Centre, currently showcasing contemporary works from artists like Ann Hayward, Bob Jankowski, and Leanne McPhee. The center also hosts performances and has an outdoor sculpture park, uniting nature and creative expression.

A dining experience that will linger in your memory is Stefano鈥檚 Restaurant, set in a historic cellar. The menu is Italian-inspired and is ever-changing with local produce, but it is known for its flavorful steaks and thoughtful wine pairings. For something a bit more laidback, try out Brass Monkey, a local cafe that elevates the traditional cafe experience to new heights鈥攚ith intriguing options like the Reuben Benedict, caramelized sticky pork, and heirloom carrot & kale salad. For a sweet treat, the Virgo Frozen Yoghurt Bar is known for its quirky indoor aesthetic and tasty fro-yo flavors, complete with customizable toppings and cold and hot drinks.

Shepparton

Shepparton downtown is where creativity, nature, and the tight-knit community collide鈥攖he experience of agricultural hummings from the outer region mingled with the downtown artistic energy. The Shepparton Art Museum is a striking cultural landmark and art piece in itself. The minimalist cubic form building features L-shaped plates made out of zinc, matte charcoal, metallic grey and rich ochre-red corten steel, making it a must-see. The building houses Australia's premier ceramics collection. Food lovers will appreciate the downtown dining experience by The Collective, a family-owned team that has reimagined what a food experience should be. The Collective combines their restaurant, The Teller, with their Food Store next door to shop for your produce.

For a more laid-back vibe, the Lemon Tree Caf茅 is loved by many, offering hearty breakfasts, locally roasted coffee, and country hospitality. A plate of pancakes, the perfectly poached egg, chicken, and waffles, or Ethiopian Espresso Mascarpone French Toast is the ideal start to your morning. If you're looking for a lowkey shopping experience, Emporium 3630 is a permanent market store within the Shepparton Victorian, offering handmade goods such as earrings, candles, pottery, and many more keepsake items.

Wodonga

Blossoming into an exuberant hub over the past decade, Wodonga has effortlessly blended modern development with natural beauty. At the heart of the revitalization, The Cube Wodonga is an entertainment center hosting live music and theatre productions such as Pink Floyds 50th Anniversary Tribute, Ziggy Alberts Regional Tour, and a Great-Gatsby-inspired night of swing dancing. Nearby, Miss Amelie is located within a historic railway station and offers European-style food. Main courses such as braised lamb, duck breast, and grass-fed eye fillet, and desserts such as passionfruit cheesecake, affogatos, and lemon souffl茅 showcase seasonal ingredients and local produce in their finest forms.

For a more casual vibe, the BeanStation Caf茅 slows things down with a fantastic brunch menu with avo smash, ricotta hotcake, and Turkish eggs, all locally sourced and come with the option of specialty coffees such as espresso, macchiato, iced coffee, and many more. Shopping enthusiasts will love Hello Darling in downtown Wodonga. The boutique carries home goods, candles, bath and body scents, and unique picnic and lunch bags for everyday use鈥攊deal for a souvenir that will not only sit on the shelf!

Warrnambool

With salty breezes rolling in from the Southern Ocean, downtown Warrnambool is the epitome of coastal charm鈥攕easide relaxation and deep maritime history are highlights throughout the culture. The Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village offers an immersive experience to its guests, showcasing the region's shipwreck heritage. The Village's museum adds to the historic feel, providing a wide range of shipwreck artifacts, such as the Loch Ard Peacock. Laidback dining experiences can be had at The Dart And Marlin, serving tasty pizzas, and smooth gnocchi and offering an abundant cocktail menu.

Experience elevated views of Lady Bay at Simon鈥檚 Waterfront, located on top of the Warrnambool Surf Life Saving Club. Known for its iconic beer garden, enjoy a burger or the famous fresh clam chowder while relaxing by the water. Complete your trip by stopping at Relax and Entertain, a downtown boutique full of home goods, stuffed toys, luxurious oils, and much more. Gifts and take-home keepsakes under $20, $50, or $100, ranging from handmade soaps to baby clothing and reusable water bottles.

Victoria鈥檚 downtowns are as diverse as they are charming, each offering its twist on Australian culture, history, and cuisine. Whether you picture yourself pottering down the laneways of Melbourne, gazing at the Geelong waterfront, or soaking in the grandeur of Gold Rush history in Ballarat, each downtown uncovers a fresh experience. Savour 海角社区-class flavors in Bendigo and breathe in the ocean breeze in Warrnambool, chasing the indulgence, adventure, and inspiration that Victoria delivers. The only question is, where will you go first?