Royal Exhibition Building

The Royal Exhibition Building, set within the Carlton Gardens just north of the Melbourne CBD, is one of the country's most significant heritage landmarks — a magnificent Victorian-era structure completed in 1880 and one of the world's oldest surviving great exhibition halls. It holds the distinction of being among the first buildings in Australia granted UNESCO World Heritage status.

The appeal is that combination of grand architecture and genuine history: its soaring dome, ornate detailing and beautiful proportions are a sight in themselves, and the building famously hosted the opening of Australia's first federal parliament in 1901. It continues to host exhibitions and events, and dome promenade tours offer a closer look at this remarkable structure and its surrounds.

With a 4.6 rating from more than 6,500 reviews, it's a much-admired landmark. Public access depends on the exhibitions and events being held, and the dome tours have their own schedule and ticketing, so it's worth checking current details before you visit — and pairing it with a stroll through the beautiful Carlton Gardens that surround this World Heritage gem.