Victoria may be Australia’s second smallest state, but it packs a punch when it comes to tourism.

Situated in southeast Australia, nestled between the NSW and South Australian borders, it is the most densely populated state, with a population of more than 6.6 million.

Victoria has got it all as far as favourite destinations go.

For starters, there’s the dynamic capital, Melbourne, founded by John Bateman in 1835.

It is a city rich in history – start at the beginning and head to Carlton’s Melbourne Museum to check out the history and culture related to the city and beyond.

It is also known as Australia’s sporting capital with its AFL matches, the Australian Open, world cricket and Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix.

But it is the iconic Melbourne Cup, that dates back to 1861, held on the first Tuesday in November that definitely stops the nation.

Food lovers are spoilt in this city and beyond – there’s a generous serve of hatted restaurants where talented star chefs take centre stage along with quaint cafes where the coffee is legendary.

For an art fix visit the National Gallery of Victoria known as the NGV, where the building with its famous waterwall.