Top 5 Reasons to Choose Melbourne

As the cultural epicenter of Australia, and one of the country’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities, Melbourne is an incredible place for a study abroad adventure! From its world-class arts and culture scene to its diverse neighbourhoods and world-famous coffee scene, there are tons of reasons to study abroad in Melbourne, Australia – but we’ll give you just five. Don't take our word for it - come and see for yourself!

#1, Melbourne is Australia’s #1 Student City – According to QS

Melbourne has proudly held its place as Australia’s top student city in the QS Best Student Cities Rankings, consistently beating out other Aussie capitals for its student-friendliness, quality of education, and lifestyle offerings. It’s home to globally ranked universities like the University of Melbourne, Monash University, and RMIT—and the city itself is built for students, with accessible public transport (trams are free in the Central Business District, CBD) dedicated study hubs, and tons of free events and workshops.
Melbourne blends academic excellence with cultural richness, creating a supportive and stimulating environment for both domestic and international students.

#2, Welcome to a foodie wonderland!

Melbourne is obsessed with food—and it shows. From early-morning flat whites to late-night ramen joints, every laneway and suburb tells a different culinary story. You'll find:

• World-class coffee culture (some argue the best in the world)
• A diverse spread of global cuisines—Greek, Vietnamese, Ethiopian, Lebanese, Chinese, Italian, Indian, Colombian, you name it!
• Food trucks, night noodle markets, vegan food festivals, and weekend farmer’s markets
• Trendy brunch spots, cafés and hidden gems in Fitzroy, Collingwood, and South Melbourne neighbourhoods.

It’s a city where eating out isn’t just a necessity—it’s a lifestyle. Perfect to explore food cultures or share epic meals on your socials.

#3, Live Music & Indie Vibes

Melbourne is Australia’s music capital—and not just for big-name concerts. Whether you’re into indie rock, techno, jazz, hip-hop, or something more niche, Melbourne has it all. You’ll find:

• Live gigs every night of the week in venues like The Tote, The Corner Hotel, Max Watts or the Northcote Theatre.
• Street performers and emerging artists lighting up Bourke Street and Federation Square
• Major music festivals like
• Vinyl record stores, artist-run galleries, zines, and spoken word nights.

There’s a strong creative undercurrent in the city, especially in neighbourhoods like Brunswick and Fitzroy, where youth subcultures thrive and self-expression is celebrated.

#4, Multicultural, Inclusive & Sustainable

Melbourne is proudly one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with residents from over 200 countries and more than 140 languages spoken. It’s a place where diversity isn’t just tolerated—it’s embraced. You’ll see it in:

• Vibrant cultural festivals (Moomba, Chinese New Year, Diwali, Lonsdale Street Greek Festival)
• Multilingual signage and community groups
• Inclusive spaces for LGBTIQA+ students and international youth

And it’s not just inclusive—it’s future-focused. Melbourne is committed to sustainability and climate action:

• Bike lanes, eco-living apartments, zero-waste shops, and plant-based food options are common
• The city supports green campuses, environmental innovation, and community gardens
• Students can join climate action groups and green clubs at universities

#5, Markets, Vintage Finds & Thrift Galore

Melbourne’s love for individuality and style shines through its thrift scene and markets. Forget fast fashion—this is where students go to build their look with a conscience. Highlights include:

• Queen Victoria Market – iconic for food, crafts, clothes, and street performers
• Camberwell Sunday Market – a thrift-lovers’ paradise for retro treasures
• Rose Street Artists' Market in Fitzroy – local art, fashion, and handmade jewellery
• Independent vintage shops across Brunswick, Northcote, and Fitzroy  

You’ll find one-of-a-kind jackets, 90s denim, cool boots, vinyl records, and accessories that help you stand out—without breaking the bank.

So what are you waiting for? Come and see for yourself.