Flinders Street Station, Melbourne

On the corners of Flinders and Swanston Streets is the historic Flinders Street Station, which opened in 1854. When it was begun, this station was the terminus for the first Australian railway. Today, the station is one of the main hubs for the intercity lines and the Metro's suburban services.

The current main building of the railway station was finished in 1909. It is an Edwardian design with a distinctive, eclectic, and almost over-the-top style. Its grandiose domes and arches have led to an urban legend that the design was originally intended for Victoria Terminus in Bombay, India. Regardless of how it got here, it is one of Melbourne's most recognizable landmarks and is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.

If someone in Melbourne says they'll "meet you under the clocks," you'll find them under the station indicator clocks above the main entrance. Another popular spot to meet is "on the steps," a clue to how ubiquitous the station is to daily Melbourne life.

The station's central location in the city makes it a natural stepping stone for pretty much every adventure. It's near Federation Square, the Yarra River, and the shopping arcades and laneways that wind around and through the Central Business District (CDB).

Why You Should Visit:
Even if you don't want to ride the train, this gorgeous big-city building and the delicious eating options inside make it worth a look.

Tip:
Makes for a good photo opportunity at night when it is lit up!