Yarra River, Melbourne

The Yarra River is a perennial river that flows through the south-central region of Victoria, Australia, and is a prominent tourist attraction in Melbourne. From the Yarra Ranges of the Great Dividing Range to Port Phillip at Hobsons Bay, the river flows for roughly 242 kilometers. Melbourne, Victoria's state capital, was founded in 1835 on the river's lower reaches. For thousands of years, several Aboriginal Australians have lived near the river, using it as a gathering spot, food supply, and water source. The Yarra River was also a major supply of irrigation water for early European immigrants. It currently supplies around 70% of Greater Melbourne's drinking water.

During the Christmas twilights, Melbourne's Yarra water bank is particularly striking. It's the time of year when the entire bank takes on the appearance of a lit-up metropolis steeped in Christmas cheer. You can take a relaxing vintage boat ride along the bank, enjoy a soul-stirring view of gleaming Herring Island, and take a peaceful stroll across the Travellers Bridge.

The Moomba Festival, which takes place along the riverbank and celebrates the iconic shining Christmas sky filled with Australian fireworks, is the most important Christmas activity. If you come here around Christmas, you'll be treated to some of the best carnival atmosphere.