View of the Melbourne Cricket Ground

With the 2025-26 Ashes series on the horizon, there’s no better time for cricket fans to point their compass toward Melbourne: Australia’s sporting capital. Discover a vibrant city where culture, coffee and world-class sport collide in the best possible way.

A city buzzing with culture (and caffeine)

Melbourne’s laneways are like an open-air gallery, with street art splashed across brick walls and hidden cafes serving coffee so good you’ll start questioning every cup you’ve ever had. The food and wine scene is equally electric, from sizzling Chinatown eats to sleek riverside dining. And for sports fanatics, the Australian Sports Museum at the MCG is a must-see celebration of Aussie sporting legends.

Melbourne street with graffiti art

There’s always something on

Part of Melbourne’s magic is that something is always happening. Festivals, exhibitions, gigs, seasonal celebrations – there’s no downtime here. The MCG, Melbourne Park and AAMI Park are all within easy reach of the city centre, so your next concert or sporting event isn’t far away. Hop on a tram, wander along the Yarra River or simply follow the sea of fans.

A world stage for the biggest events

From the first serve of the Australian Open to the roar of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, Melbourne’s sporting calendar is stacked with globally iconic events. It’s hard to beat the electric atmosphere of the Boxing Day Test at the mighty MCG as 100,000 cricket fans pack out the stands. If this Ashes tour slips through your fingers, fear not – Melbourne is set to host the 150th anniversary Test in March 2027, and it promises to be one for the ages.

An overview of the MCG under lights

Your gateway to Victorian adventures

For UK travellers, the adventure doesn’t end at the city limits. Melbourne is the perfect gateway to the wider wonders of Victoria, from the Great Ocean Road’s dramatic coastline to the Yarra Valley’s verdant vineyards and the wildlife-rich Gippsland region.

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of sport, culture and adventure, Melbourne is Australia’s greatest sporting city – and the ultimate stage for an Ashes adventure.

Plan your trip to Melbourne with Malaysian Airlines

Offering a double daily departure from London on the modern Airbus A350 with connections via Kuala Lumpur to 65+ global destinations. Travel to Melbourne with three daily services from Kuala Lumpur with the new Airbus A330neo, where you can enjoy elevated comfort in both economy and business. Be treated to complimentary inflight Wi-Fi, delicious meals and 20kg of baggage always included.

To find out more and book your trip, go to www.visitmelbourne.com